Montgomery Parents January 2015

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If you are 50 or older, get screened for colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is the 2nd leading cancer killer in Alabama. Ask your doctor about screening options for colorectal cancer, including the new, annual take-home test called FIT or iFOBT. If you are at high risk for colorectal cancer, you may need to be screened more frequently.

For more information talk to your doctor, call 334-206-3336, or visit /fitway


Open House

Pre-K3, Pre-K4 and Kindergarten Open House

Sunday, January 25, 2015 1:30-3:30pm

Learning Beyond the Classroom Visit our state-of-the-art campus and experience first-hand the impact of engaged learning.

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January2015

Volume 20 Number 1

62 Columns

58

6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

Creating More Peace at Home

Find eight effective straight talking discipline strategies.

The Private School Advantage Discover three important benefits specific to the student.

sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen

44 Autauga Education Matters

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12 Kids Health Watch

by Superintendent Spence Agee

56 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

61 Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey

2015 River Region Private School Guide Our detailed listing of private schools and all they offer!

Managing Your Depression

Making the road to recovery smoother for you and your family.

On The Cover Jillian Tinglin and William Newman are seniors at The Montgomery Academy. Jillian is the daughter of Drs. John and Grace Tinglin of Pike Road. William is the son of Dr. Al and Melanie Newman of Montgomery. Both Jillian and William are great athletes and students, but even better people.

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86 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 94 Calendar/Support Groups 103 Advertiser Directory 104 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents


Editor’sNote Happy 2015 to you all! Another year has come and gone, and life continues to change for all of us as parents. Some years we look back on as more difficult and challenging, while others stand out as mostly happiness and peace. In my life as a mom, this has certainly been the case. The early years of motherhood proved strenuous for me as I adjusted to giving of myself pretty much all day long to a little one, then another little one a few years later. After that we hit what Jason and I like to call a “sweet spot” when Will and Anna were between the ages of four and twelve. Sure there were issues, but we felt fairly in control and able to manage things. We found more troublesome days ahead in dealing with our teenagers and the ups and downs of hormones, desire for freedom, increased eye-rolling, etc. Then, in the midst of that, we went on an adoption journey to bring our sweet Grace home from Russia that would leave me struggling as a mom and a woman for more than a year. Dealing with the demands already upon me with work and raising Will and Anna were already hard. Add to that a toddler I hardly knew moving into our home, loss of freedom Jason and I had recently rediscovered as parents, and basically a complete change to our whole family dynamic, and I found myself plummeting into a depression I had never before experienced. Sure, I had the baby blues after Will and Anna were born, but this was a whole different ball game. Because these feelings were new to me, and the nature of depression makes you feel ashamed and isolated, I suffered without help for quite some time. I had occasional good days, but more often tears were the norm and negative thoughts cycled in my head like a broken record. It was like being on a merry-go-round I couldn’t get off. Finally, through the help of a good post-adoption counselor in the area, I began to work through my feelings so that in the end I could attach to Grace and feel 100% like her Mama (which, thankfully, did happen). But the journey was long and hard, and it took letting go of my pride that I could be the perfect mom and wife and woman, and accept the help I so obviously needed. The topic of depression often feels like a taboo subject, but I think our society is opening up about it more and more. I for one am very happy about this change, and hope women and men alike will feel free to share about their own struggles. Once I finally did, you know what happened? I ended up realizing I was far from the only one. And the support I got, not only from my counselor, but also my friends and family was part of the healing process. We’ve included an important article in this month’s issue that I hope will be a blessing to many of you, Managing Depression and Your Family. If you, like I was once, are suffering alone...there’s no need to. Take the advice given and seek the help you need. Don’t wait! I’m proof that there is peace and happiness to be had again! The other big highlight of January’s issue is our 2015 Private School Guide. We know that choosing a school for your children is one of the biggest decisions you make as parents and Montgomery Parents is committed to helping. You’ll find an article on the benefits students receive when attending private school, plus our extensive listing of River Region private schools complete with all the details you need to begin narrowing your search. Please pay close attention to our advertising schools throughout this issue, as their ads will provide even more in-depth information for you. All of us at Montgomery Parents look forward to serving you in this, our 21st year of publication. Please email me with any questions or comments, or to offer suggestions about what you’d like to see in Montgomery Parents for 2015. We’d love to hear from you!

DeAnne

deanne@montgomeryparents.com Montgomery Parents I January 2015

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The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Margaret Allen Robert Coggin, M.D. Laura Handey Robert Kennedy Dr. Jeff Langham Michele Ranard, M.Ed. Karen Robinson-Renaud John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Lori Mercer Photography www.lorimercerphotography.com

Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Savannah Bowden Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch Member

Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2014 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Teens & Sleep New research finds that teens whose school days begin later than the national norm of approximately 8 a.m. achieve at higher levels than teens who start school earlier. The researchers in question recommend that school start times be extended to at least 8:30 am. Am I missing something here? The problem, it seems to me, is not when the school day begins. The problem is teens whose parents let them stay up until all hours of the night playing video games, texting, talking on their cell phones, watching television, sufing the net, and listening to music on headphones. These teens, as has been known for some time now, aren’t getting enough sleep. Bedtime is the problem, not school time. Furthermore, it is well known that electronics of the above sort interfere with circadian rhythms. A teen using any of these devices well into the evening is going to have difficulty falling asleep. This is yet another example of how the culture absolves parents of responsibility for their children (because that would constitute what’s come to be known as “blaming”) and

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

assigns it instead to some faceless institutional policy. This is also an example of how institutions and bureaucracies tend to completely ignore the Law of Unintended Consequences when it comes to setting policy. Let me assure the reader that if a school decides to push its start time from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m., the teens who attend said school will simply use that as an excuse to stay up playing, texting, talking, watching, surfing, and listening for another hour. They will get exactly the same amount of sleep, come to school equally tired, and their achievement will suffer equally. The solution to the problem of teens who don’t get enough sleep on school nights is for parents to step up to the plate and make it impossible for their kids to play, text, talk, watch, surf, and listen after a certain time. With nothing to do but twiddle their thumbs or read, these teens will fall asleep. And because their brains have not been bombarded with electronic stimulation prior to falling asleep, they will sleep more soundly. And because they will sleep more soundly, they will wake up refreshed and go to school prepared mentally to do their best.

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Ah, but that’s the rub, of course. I refer to parents who will not set limits of any meaningful sort on their children’s use of electronics because, get this, it will upset them. And we must not, in America, have upset children. As one parent put it to me recently: “I mean, but John, that’s what they’re all doing at night!” Meaning that if he shut down his teenage child’s electronic access after 8 p.m., the child would be placed at a significant social disadvantage, grow up feeling deprived, and never reach his full potential or some other such baloney. My parents hardly ever let me do what “all” the other kids were doing. In retaliation, I left home and got married at age 20 and managed, somehow, to overcome the debilitating social limitations my parents had imposed on me and create a reasonably decent life for myself, wife, and kids. Oh, and my parents made me turn out my lights no later than 10 p.m. on school nights until I went to college. But that was back in those benighted days when parents didn’t care what their children thought about any decision they made. Some people actually call them the “good old days.” How ridiculous. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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MPAC Events

Tickets are already on sale for the following shows at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Call 481-5100 or visit www.mpaconline.org.

Cruising the Creekwalk

Local Mardi Gras Celebrations

Prattville Mardi Gras Parade January 31 @ 11 a.m. The fun starts in the morning with children’s activities, music, arts and crafts, and great food. At 2 p.m. the parade will roll through Downtown Prattville. There will be beads and candy, floats, antique cars, horses and more. For a parade application or more info, call (334) 595-0854.

Saturday, January 17 The 8th Annual Cruising the Creekwalk 5K Run/1 Mile Fun Run/Walk, sponsored by Leadership Autauga County, will be held in downtown Prattville. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. at Doster Memorial Community Center. All proceeds from the event go to support youth leadership programs in Autauga County. The 5K Run begins at 9 a.m. and the 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk starts at 10 a.m. Both events will begin and end at Doster Center and will take you along Autauga Creek and through historic downtown Prattville. To register online, go to www.active.com. Entry fees are $22 per person, pre-registration runners; $25 per person, race-day registration; $72, family rate pre-registration; and “Sleep-In for the Youth” registration fee is $18. Long-sleeve t-shirts will be provided to all pre-registered runners. The first 100 race-day registrars will receive a short-sleeve shirt. After the races, stick around for awards, music and refreshments, located inside Doster Center. For more info, contact James at (334) 657-1397 or cruisingthecreekwalk@gmail.com.

Junior League Montgomery Mardi Gras 10K & 5K February 7 @ 8 a.m. Ready. Set. Geaux! This special event will feature a 10K course down Ray Thorington Road, including a Wheelchair/Adaptive Division, as well as a 5K option. Watch for more details and registration information soon at www.jlmontgomery.org.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents

Millbrook Revelers Parade & Festival February 7 @ 9 a.m. Village Green Park in Millbrook. More than 60 vendors from all over the South will offer lots of different food and fun for everyone. The parade starts at NOON sharp. Anyone can enter the parade. Just visit www.millbrookrevelers.org for entry information.

January 24-February 15 Fall down the rabbit hole with Alice as she encounters beloved characters both zany and strange – from the White Rabbit to the Mad Hatter and dreaded Queen of Hearts. This whimsical classic is an enchanting story for all ages. Visit www. asf.net or call 271-5353 for tickets.

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

Alice in Wonderland

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MERLE HAGGARD January 29 @ 7:30 p.m. Haggard has blended elements of jazz, rock, blues and folk music into his arrangements, while staying true to the traditions of country. No matter what the current fashion of the moment is in music, Haggard always goes his own way. Ticket prices begin at $35. Black Jacket Symphony presents Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of The Moon” February 20 @ 8 p.m. Tickets begin at $29. Agape of Central Alabama Presents MICHAEL OHER February 24 @ 7:30 p.m. Michael Oher came from a broken home and his estranged father was murdered while Oher was in high school. Sean and Leigh Anne Tuohy became Oher’s legal guardians and he developed into a college football star and a top NFL draft pick. Oher’s story was told in Michael Lewis’s book The Blind Side and the Sandra Bullock film of the same name. Tickets begin at $27. Disney Live: Pirates and Princess Adventure March 18 @ 1 and 5 p.m. Grab your tiaras and doubloons and join us for Disney Junior Live On Tour! Pirate & Princess Adventure. Mickey and Minnie are taking their seats too at this neverbefore-seen live show featuring your favorite characters from Disney Junior’s hit series, Sofia the First, along with Jake and the Never Land Pirates. Tickets begin at $17.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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Montgomery’s Annual Jewish Food Festival The annual Jewish Food Festival will be held February 22 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Temple Beth Or on Narrow Lane Road in Montgomery. Over the years thousands of men, women and children have enjoyed this festival, including sampling the food; visiting the Treasure Market that promises something for everyone; and stopping by the Temple Beth Or Gift Shop, which has a wonderful selection of jewelry and other gifts. Many also take the opportunity to attend a short session in the Temple’s sanctuary with Rabbi Elliot Stevens to learn about Jewish customs. The central attraction, of course, is the Jewish food that may be purchased and most of which has been handmade by Temple members. Included are pastries such as rugelach, strudel and mondel bread; plates of brisket or corned beef; matzo ball soup; potato latkes; and quajado (spinach pie). “Imported” from New York are New York cheesecakes, direct from the famous Carnegie Deli and sold by the slice or cake. For more info, visit www.templebethor.net. Admission and parking are free.

Saturday, January 24 Alpha Upsilon Lambda Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated invites you to the 19th Annual Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial Scholarship Breakfast at 8 a.m. at the Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center, in downtown Montgomery. For tickets and sponsorship opportunities, contact Eddie D. Compton, III at (334) 414-4556 or cptjavaiii@aol.com.

Girl Scout Cookies Are Available Now!

Family Art Affair & Jazz Jams

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts January 25 * 2-4 p.m. Bring the entire family to this FREE fun event, and enjoy a little jazz, and wonderful artwork in the galleries! Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4365.

The 2015 lineup includes favorites such as Shortbreads, Thin Mints, Caramel deLites, Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter Sandwiches, Lemonades, Thanks-A-Lots, and a new gluten-free addition, Trios. Trios are made of peanut butter, chocolate chips and oatmeal. Booth sales begin Saturday, January 17, where troops will set up in front of local businesses and shopping centers across the area. A cookie locator app can be downloaded for the iPhone and Android devices to find a cookie booth. The sale ends on Sunday, March 8. For more information or to locate a Girl Scout troop, visit www.girlscoutssa. org or call toll free 1-800-239-6636.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Managing ADD

More Than Medication Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit – Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is a very common problem that affects many children. This is usually recognized by hyperactive or inattentive behavior, or both. These behaviors are basically due to the inability to concentrate. This frequently results in poor performance in school. Children who seem to have this type of difficulty should have a formal evaluation by their pediatrician and/or psychologist. If the child is diagnosed with ADD, the normal recommendation is to treat with a medication indicated for this problem. Medications are certainly very helpful and appropriate in most situations. The purpose of the medication is not to control their behavior, but really to improve their ability to concentrate and focus on the task at hand. When they are able to concentrate more effectively, then most of the inappropriate behavior will improve allowing them to be more successful in the classroom and at home. However, treating ADD is not just about giving a pill and hoping everything goes well. There are many things to do for ADD in addition to medication. These are a few suggestions that may be helpful. Get plenty of sleep. Children need approximately 9 hours of sleep every night. Sleep medicine specialists have found that children who do not get enough sleep have

symptoms just like ADD, mainly lack of focus and inability to concentrate. This is even more important for teenagers since they need more sleep due to their growth during puberty. Eat properly and maintain good nutrition. Especially eat a good breakfast every morning. When breakfast is skipped, the blood sugar can become too low and again cause lack of concentration and fatigue during school. They don’t have to have a big breakfast, but at least something nutritious. Children with ADD need order and consistency in their life. They have enough trouble with organization, so the parents need to make sure their daily routine is as organized as possible. This means getting up and going to bed at the same time every day, even on weekends. It helps to have their school clothes laid out the night before. Homework should be done as soon as possible after school while their medication is still effective. Most medications will lose their effectiveness by suppertime. It is best to have a specific designated area for homework. That way all their materials are handy and accessible and they don’t have to go all over the house looking for things. It is best for homework to be done in a quiet environment with no distractions. That means cell phone turned off, no TV, and no loud music. It’s okay for you to assist in homework, but not do it for them.

Since children with ADD have such a short attention span instructions have to be brief and simple. Instead of just saying “Get ready for school”, you may have to say “Go eat breakfast,” “Go brush your teeth,” “Go get dressed,” etc. In addition be sure to follow up immediately with each instruction to make sure they really do it, and let them know you mean it. This doesn’t mean parents have to yell and scream, but you do have to be firm. Just like other children, you have to maintain consistent, effective discipline with a positive and nurturing attitude. Also, it is very important to give your child genuine, enthusiastic praise and feedback for their accomplishments and progress. Helping them know they are doing a good job goes a long way in making them feel good about themselves and having good, positive self-esteem. Most important of all, let them know you really, really love them no matter what and that you are going to do everything you can to help them grow up to be a happy, successful, productive adult. Dr. Coggin received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and did his pediatric residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. He began private practice in Mississippi and has been in Montgomery since 1983. He has two married daughters, one in Montgomery and one in Orlando, Florida. He enjoys college sports with his wife Cathy who is an attorney.

Dr. C. Allen White Dr. Robert L. Coggin Dr. David W. Drennen Dr. Karen Doles Dr. Malissa Hoy

OFFICE (334) 271-5959 NURSE LINE (334) 272-6667

Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

OFFICE HOURS Mon-Thurs Friday Saturday Sunday Montgomery Parents I January 2015

8:00 am - Evening Appts. 8:00 am - 4:00 pm 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm 12

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Thousands of Us! Happy New Year...up and away we go! You would think that our transition into Year 2015 would be pretty simple; after-all, Year 2014 gave us (by the grace and mercy of the good Lord) such a significant head start. Even as the stage is set for producing good future works, it never hurts to factor in fresh resolves. So what shall be our 2015 resolutions? As superintendent, it is easy for me to resolve that I will ensure that all children graduate prepared for college or career, but unlike the little red hen, this is one task that I cannot do alone; at least not by just saying the words. Real change, for the good of the order, requires thousands of us with

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

the will to focus on real issues and with a collective desire to make something better happen for all. Generally, it means that each one of us is extremely important to end results. So who should be involved in helping to make this New Year great? The right answer is EVERYONE…to include school administrators, teachers, secretaries, central staff, parents, students, grandparents, faith-based organizations, businesses and other community entities, Board members, elected officials, and legislators. We must all put our heads together and rally around some common resolutions to impact our great city. Great exemplars for the Montgomery community could be: • Ensuring that all children are equipped physically, intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually for life.

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• Ensuring that our neighborhoods are safe. • Ensuring that plans (from every entity) contribute to the economic development of our community. • Ensuring that school facilities are safe, sound and equipped with technological resources. • Ensuring the development of pipelines for leadership development. Counting down to December 31, 2015, we have 365 days to work our resolutions. Each day and each person’s commitment matters… so what shall be our 2015 resolutions? Allen began working for Montgomery Public Schools as a special education teacher in 1976. She holds administrative certification from Alabama State University, a masters of arts in early childhood, a masters of arts in early childhood/handicapped, and a bachelor’s of science in elementary education and special education – all from Auburn University Montgomery.

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WE’LL KNOCK YOUR SOCKS OFF J U S T WA I T A N D S E E ! K4/K5 OPEN HOUSE Thursday, January 15 at 6:00 p.m.

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Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Catholic Inducts New Mu Alpha Theta Members

Trinity Delivers Gift Shoeboxes

The Trinity Key Club recently sponsored a successful collection drive of items to fill shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child, a ministry of Samaritan’s Purse. Students brought in items such as hygiene, school supplies, and toys to fill the boxes that were distributed by Samaritan’s Purse all over the world. More than 140 gift-filled shoeboxes were packed by Trinity students and delivered. Operation Christmas Child is an outreach project that uses gift-filled shoeboxes to share God’s love in a tangible way with needy children around the world. Since 1993, Samaritan’s Purse has collected and delivered more than 113 million gift-filled shoeboxes to children in more than 150 countries. Shown, Trinity’s Middle and Upper School Principal, Mike Zavada, delivered the boxes. Robert Smith and Ben Hulsey from the First Baptist Church Montgomery OCC Relay Center accepted the boxes on behalf of Samaritan’s Purse.

Montgomery Catholic recently inducted the first members to the Montgomery Catholic Chapter of Mu Alpha Theta. Mu Alpha Theta is a national honorary for students who distinguish themselves in mathematics. The inductees were honored at the first Chapter meeting held in the MCPS Library in November 13. The members are: Seulle Baek, Paige Barranco, Andrew Ellis, Ann Faulkner, Brianna Foley, Lindsey Guin, Derek Kelly, Ashley Kim, Mary McLaughlin and Leo Petters. The founding members and officers are Ann Faulkner, Paige Barranco, Derek Kelly and Leo Petters. John Petters, a Montgomery Catholic Class of 2010 Alumni, was the guest speaker and gave a presentation to the group entitled “Geometric Construction of Regular Polygons.” Petters is president of Kappa Mu Epsilon at Montevallo University. The group was presented with certificates by High School Math Teacher Terrica Carlisle following the induction ceremony. The evening ended with the new members and their parents enjoying dinner with the Montgomery Catholic Math Department.

Forest Avenue Collects Food Bank Donation

When Forest Avenue students were asked to bring in $1, the school’s Character @ Heart Club collected $280 for the Montgomery Area Food Bank’s Thanksgiving food drive. Principal Emily Little presented the money with Forest Avenue students Jordan DeJesus, Siyun Kim, Elizabeth Aaij, Daniel Park and Camp Shanahan.

Bucket Band Teaches Concentration at ACA

Eastwood Announces Spelling Bee Winners

Eastwood Christian School fifth-grader Parker Ensminger took first place in the school spelling bee. The winning word was epicurean. Second place went to fourthgrader John Koch, and third place to sixth-grader Ruth Lucas. Montgomery Parents I January 2015

Since returning to Alabama Christian Academy three years ago, Trey Holladay has been a great addition to the Fine Arts department as the teacher of the music appreciation class and the school’s a capella chorus director and assistant band director. Last year, Holladay created a “Bucket Band” in his music appreciation class to not only teach the students music skills such as sight reading and rhythm, but also to make it fun for the students and to encourage greater participation and learning. In the six weeks allotted for the music appreciation class, these eighth-grade students succeed in learning a quite complicated piece of music that they play on various sizes of buckets. Holladay notes that “students who have participated in this class will also learn coordination and concentration skills that will benefit them in other academic areas.” 16

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Open House: January 20, 6:00 p.m.

Macon East Academy

15396 Vaughn Road | maconeast.net | 334.277.6566

Located 7 miles east of Chantilly Parkway, just minutes from Montgomery 17

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M Montgomery County Schools

Catholic Holds Campus Open House Events Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School will host an Open House for all grades (K4-12) in January. We invite you to learn more about what Montgomery Catholic has to offer your family. Tour our campuses, meet teachers, and learn more about our program.

St. Bede Elementary Campus 3850 Atlanta Highway Tuesday, January 13 4:30-6:30 p.m. Holy Spirit Elementary Campus 8580 Vaughn Road Thursday, January 15 4:30-6:30 p.m. Middle-High School Campus Grades 7-12 5350 Vaughn Road Wednesday, January 21 4:30-6:30 p.m. For more info, visit www.montgomerycatholic.org or call 334.272.7221 ext.32.

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

ECA Senior Class Visits Mission

Ephesians 2:10 states, “For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works…” To actively live out this scripture, the senior class at Evangel Christian Academy recently visited Friendship Mission Shelter for Women. The students helped perform a variety of tasks including organizing and labeling clothes and shoes in the clothes closet, re-stocking and organizing the food pantry, as well as making the closet with diapers and items needed for babies more accessible. Students also made bags of needed toiletry items for the house residents. By the end of the visit, the students realized how much of an impact they could have by helping those in need. ECA’s senior class is now looking forward to returning during the spring semester. The students said they really enjoyed serving at the shelter and can now take to heart the meaning of the scripture in Acts 20:35, “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

Cornerstone Students Act In Christmas Carol

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Three of the children of Gina and Jason South: Crispin (9th grade), Duncan (6th grade) and Liam (3rd grade) attend Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy and have in recent years also been part of the cast of Alabama Shakespeare Festival’s production of A Christmas Carol. This year several Cornerstone classes had an opportunity to view the South brothers in their Schoolfest performances.

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Montgomery Academy Focuses on STEM Education

In the Montgomery Academy Lower School, Sarah Housley has transformed the science lab into a STEM lab. STEM is an acronym for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics, and stimulates curiosity-building activities in the classroom. In partnership with E.A.T. South, a school garden was created to help develop an understanding of sustainability. Engineering challenges between courses will also be a highlight of the STEM approach. The Lower School STEM curriculum exposes students to circuitry, computer programming and basic coding and the use of mechanical tools. After learning the fundamentals of STEM education in the Lower School, Academy Middle School students are able to build upon their knowledge in preparation for advanced Upper School classes. STEM is a focal point in the 8th grade technology elective “Digital Literacies” which is an introduction to engineering. Designed by Middle School technology teacher Gary Nelson and Upper School technology teacher Denise Dubick, “Digital Literacies” helps students explore electricity by examining the power grid, constructing simple circuits and programming small electronics to illustrate how computers can control physical components. As a graduation requirement, this course gives every MA student an introduction to mechatronics, computer hardware and software, programming, multimedia design, and digital citizenship. The Middle School Science Club provides an additional engineering focus in several of its projects including boat races, an egg drop experiment and a bridge building challenge. STEM focus in the Upper School is centered on a two-course study of engineering created by Dubick. In Intro to Engineering, a course introduced this fall, students are presented with the concepts of aeronautical engineering, structures, CAD & 3D printing, mechatronics and robotics. With “Advanced Topics in Engineering,” to be taught in the spring of 2015, students will explore and investigate a problem that their community faces and come up with a group project proposal on an issue they would like to tackle. During the semester, students will also have the opportunity to interview with engineering professionals to develop a better understanding of the engineering profession. Shown, Maddie Brazil made a puppy and wrote the code for it to dance.

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Jeff Davis High Honors Top Readers

Jeff Davis High School top readers Eddie Thomas, Tykayla Simmons, Jaylin Murry, Ayonna Simpson and Sierra Lyles recently joined the school’s 200/100/50/25 Point Clubs by reading books and earning points from taking Accelerated Reader quizzes during the first semester of school. As a reward, the students were honored at a reception and had their names included on the Wall of Fame in the front hall. The point clubs award students who pass AR quizzes for every book that they read. The activity is part of the school’s efforts to encourage students to read for pleasure.

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Catholic’s Pee Wees and Termites Finish at Top of CCC Jamboree! Montgomery Catholic hosted the first Capitol City Conference (CCC) Pee Wee and Termite Jamboree October 18. Alabama Christian Academy, Prattville Christian Academy, and Saint James participated in the event. The first game began at 8 a.m. and the Termite Knights and Pee Wee Knights made it through the day to the Championship games. Both teams did well with the Montgomery Catholic Termites winning the CCC Championship title after defeating PCA in the Championship game. The Termite Knights finished with a perfect season 10-0. PCA was second and St. James was third in the Termite division. The Pee Wee Knights were second after a close game with Saint James. The Pee Wee Knights finished the season with a record of 7-3. Saint James was first and ACA was third in the Pee Wee division. Montgomery Catholic’s Termite Football Team is coached by: Head Coach Matt Binns, and Assistant Coaches Brian Belsterling, Brian Ford & Michael Hodges. Players are: #1 Kamron Dean, #2 Brennan Binns, #4 Nate Izer, #6 Tate Bartgis, #7 Will Belsterling, #8 Cannon Bach, #9 Chase Ford, #10 Ivan Klemen, #16 Dalton DeRamus, #19 Hunter Hodges, #24 John Russell Smith, #47 Christian Wentworth, #51 Jake Dean, #54 Owen Beesley, #58 Karson Franklin, #59 Austin Varner, #65 Will Anderson and #66 Mason Sylvester. Montgomery Catholic’s Pee Wee Football Team is coached by: Head Coach Rod Bach and Assistant Coaches Jason Morehouse, Bruce Johnson & Johnny Reardon. Players are: #2 DJ Carter, #3 Myles Butler, #7 Grant Smith, #11 Michael Jones, #15 Shawn Sponsler, #18 Ethan Binns, #19 John McLennan, #23 Jacob Downes, #25 Spencer Bach, #27 Matthew Reardon, #28 Jeff Mullarkey, #29 Aidan McNeely, #33 John Berryhill, #34 Martin Watson, #37 Caleb Morehouse, #38 Will Driver, #40 Austin Cleghorn, #44 Dean Johnson, #49 Will Gooslin, #50 Maverick Friday, #51 Baine Compton, #53 Riley Swain and #77 Zach Izer. Cheering the teams on were Termite Cheerleaders: Mally Barranco, Lily Coulombe, Courtney Logeman, Kathryn Reardon, Katherine Kinard, Hannah Traff, Isabella Munoz, Addie Zumwalt, Sophia Taylor, Danielle Willcox, Maggie Stewart, Bethany Curry, Madison Green, Cameron Talley, Audrey Trant. They were coached by Angela Logeman, Kelly Coulombe, Katherine Barranco and Colleen Reardon. Pee Wee Cheerleaders are: Emma Krasnowiecki, Jordan Stokes, Maggie Turner, Emily Klinger, Gracie Barranco, Cecilia Hoffpauir, Cameryn Cool, Valerie Waite, Devan Deramus, Emerson Retka, Cacey Williams, Alyssa Kirk, Emily Riggles. They are coached by Kelley Klinger and Michelle Cool. All Pictures courtesy of Total Image. Montgomery Parents I January 2015

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Trinity Students Attend Engineering Dinner

Twenty-two AP chemistry and physics students from Trinity attended an engineering scholarship dinner and tour at International Paper Mill on November 20. Students heard from one of the chemical engineering professors at Auburn University, who discussed the various careers and scholarships available in the different fields of engineering. Students were also able to hear about co-op experiences from several Auburn students who are currently working at the paper mill. Neal McDevitt, a Trinity graduate and a chemical engineer at International Paper, organizes this event every year.

Academy Third-Graders Learn through Gardening

Third-graders at Montgomery Academy have planted, tended to, and harvested broccoli, red cabbage, green cabbage, radishes and carrots grown in the STEM garden! In addition to learning about plants, the garden has been a great place for math practice.

Macon East Kindergartners Hold Thanksgiving Celebration

The K3, K4 and kindergarten classes at MEA presented a terrific Thanksgiving program for their parents, grandparents and special guests on November 21. The boys and girls sang songs, performed a dance, and shared a Thanksgiving poem. Following the program, everyone enjoyed a delicious, traditional Thanksgiving lunch. Thanks to Debbie Mills, Janet Johnson, Ellen Lawrence and music instructor Shannon Owings for planning this special event.

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Trinity Runners Brave Arctic Temperatures

The arctic temperatures didn’t keep runners away from Trinity’s fifth annual “Run the Race” 5K, Fun Run, and Cat Dash. Families of runners enjoyed inflatables, face painting, shopping at vendor stations, music provided by Trinity’s band, and delicious barbecue, compliments of Dreamland. The newly added “Cat Dash,” a 100-yard dash on the practice field, has proven to be a favorite! Girls and boys from each grade had their own race and awards given to first, second and third places. Shown, Suzanne, Keith and Ella Williams made Trinity’s 5K a family affair.

ECA Celebrates Christmas

Evangel Christian Academy recently held its annual Christmas Program. The elementary students under the direction of Christina Brown, ECA’s music teacher, joined together to present a holiday program for guest of all ages. After the program, parents and guests were invited to a festive holiday celebration which included hot chocolate and cookies.

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Holy Cross Student Earns Praise for Holiday Essay

Bailey Williams, a fifth-grader at Holy Cross Episcopal School, received an honorable mention for her entry in the Roxie Lancaster Children’s Holiday Writing Competition for the Montgomery CityCounty Public Library. Her teacher, Donna Lee, encouraged her fifth-grade English class to write and submit essays to the holiday writing contest. In 125 words or less, students from first through fifth grades wrote about what winter means to them. Past topics have ranged from Christmas and Hanukkah to winter sports and December weather. This year, out of more than 100 entries from several Montgomery area schools, Williams’s essay was selected as one of those to be honored. Williams chose to write about Christmas. In her essay, she mentioned how she loves spending time with her family. She described some of the traditions her family has, such as sitting around the fire and watching A Charlie Brown Christmas. “I wanted to write about how I love Christmas,” said Williams, 11. “Jesus’ birthday is Christmas day; if he hadn’t been born, then he wouldn’t have died for our sins.” She went on to write about how the holiday season is not about getting, but receiving. Lee was impressed by her student’s insight. “It was amazing that someone so young truly understands the meaning of Christmas.” Her mother, Mallory Williams, agrees. “I am so proud of her and I hope that she continues to develop as a writer.” Williams says that she plans on entering more writing competitions in the future. The awards ceremony was held on December 11 at the public library in downtown Montgomery. The Arts Council of Montgomery, the Montgomery City-County Public Library, Friends of the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Regions Bank together host this contest every year. 23

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Montgomery County Schools

Trinity Swimmers Make A Splash at Sectional Meet! Trinity Swim Team members Prather Anne Hargrove and Maria Stevenson competed in the Central Sectional Meet in November and made it to the finals. Stevenson came in 16th overall in the 100 Breaststroke, while Hargrove came in fifth in the 50 Free and second in the 100 Free. Hargrove then advanced to the State Meet held in December at Auburn University. From left are Maria Stevenson and Prather Anne Hargrove.

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Academy Upper School Students Travel to France

Lighthouse Visits Tuskegee History

Two third-grade students and the principal from Lighthouse Christian Academy in Montgomery are shown with the “George Washington Carver” meteorite at Tuskegee University Archives Museum. The meteorite is a 22-pound “slice” from a meteor found in Alabama. Interestingly, the meteorite is in the shape of the state of Alabama. Third- and fourth-grade students recently toured the home of Booker T. Washington and the George Washington Carver museum at Tuskegee University and the Tuskegee Airmen Museum located at Moton Field in Tuskegee.

Over Thanksgiving break, twenty-six Montgomery Academy Upper School students and four chaperones left for a profoundly inspiring and exhausting journey to France. Beginning in Paris can be overwhelming, but the students fought the metro with ease, purchased macaroons at every stop, and never seemed to tire. They were challenged to understand the architecture of Notre Dame by a French history teacher, taught to make soufflé in a Parisian cooking class, and discovered that the life of a 17th century French aristocrat may have been a bit more challenging than Versailles makes it appear. The trip moved quickly from Paris southward, as they caught the 5 a.m. TGV train into Avignon. The students found themselves no longer getting lost in the glittering lights of Paris, but the beautiful calm of Provence. They lost themselves in the Roman Arena of Nîmes, figuratively and literally, and visited the medieval ramparts of Aigues-Mortes. They questioned the modern art juxtaposed against the ancient walls of the city, and after hours in the rain, were content to board the bus for a discussion of flamingos and preparation for Nice. While in Nice, students experienced the city’s old and new districts, as well as the hilltop villages of Saint-Paul de Vence, Eze, and the beautiful city of Monaco. They said a quick “Bonjour” to Chagall, and admired the vibrant colors hidden within his museum. Then they climbed to Eze’s Jardin Exotique to admire the blue coast.

Lee’s ROTC Cadets Collect for Needy

Robert E. Lee High School’s JROTC AL-011 Cadet Corps members shared their giving spirit during the holidays by collecting toys and clothing for two families and their children through the Adopt-a-Family program. Earlier in the school year, the cadets identified the program as a service learning project that they wanted to complete for the holidays. Col (Ret.) Antonio Douglas is the unit’s senior aerospace science instructor. Montgomery Parents I January 2015

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Catholic Students Help Local Seniors This Fall

Lanier Students Attend Leadership Conference Lanier High DECA Club students Victoria Lee, T’Erika Porter and Ariel Walker and their DECA advisor Senitha Barnett recently attended the Ultimate DECA Power Trip in Washington, D.C. DECA members from around the U.S. and Canada were well represented. The conference offered exciting programs that helped students to power up their leadership skills. Students also had an opportunity to attend workshops that focused on leadership, college and career prep, personal finance, entrepreneurship and chapter management. In addition, students visited the Washington Monument and Reflecting Pool, Lincoln Memorial, Vietnam War Veterans Memorial, the White House and World War II Memorial.

The Montgomery Catholic Key Club spent a beautiful November day raking leaves for two different senior citizens in the Montgomery area who were suggested to the Club by Beverly Perkins with the Montgomery Area County Council on Aging. The students had a great time raking and jumping in the leaves and visiting with the homeowners. From left are students Derek Kelly, Lt. Governor for all Montgomery school Key Clubs; Madison Searcy; Jeong Choi; Reggie Jackson, Montgomery Catholic Club President; Marissa Craig; and Carrie Woodling. Not pictured, but extremely valuable to the work done in these yards, were Doug Ruth of the Montgomery Kiwanis Club, and Penny Searcy, Madison’s mother.

STJ Students Help UAB Patient Families

The Saint James School fifth-graders shopped in early December for children whose parents are hospitalized at UAB for bone marrow transplants. The students are encouraged to earn $20 to use when they go as a class to shop for these children. The fifth-graders sign up for a child and are responsible for selecting, purchasing and wrapping their gifts. Saint James’ Resource Specialist Joann Reifenberg and her husband Ed started this program in 1999 at STJ. Mr. Reifenberg transports the presents to UAB in time for a large Christmas party at the hospital for the children who have a parent in the Bone Marrow Unit.

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BrewTech Youth Judicial Team Takes Fourth

The Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School YMCA Youth in Government Club sent 12 students to this year’s Youth Judicial Competition. The competition was held November 1-3 in downtown Montgomery at the Federal Courthouse and the Montgomery County Courthouse. This was the largest competition to date with 56 major league teams and 21 premier league teams. High school students from across Alabama served as the judges, bailiffs, attorneys, witnesses and jurors. Brew Tech sent one major league team and one premier league team. Both were assigned as plaintiff teams. The major league team won jury verdicts in 3 out of 4 trials and earned higher scores than their opposing defense teams in 3 out of 4 trials. Tyra Wilson, Justala Simpson and Zariah Robinson were the attorneys, and Angelisa Newell, Taniya Frazier and Hannah Owens served as witnesses for the major league team. The premier league team won jury verdicts and earned higher scores than their opposing teams in all four of their trials. They finished as the fourth-place plaintiff team overall in the premier league. Attorneys were Steven Higgins, Ty Tompkins, Brianna Miles, and witnesses were Elexia McGill, Christopher Rogers and Michael Trammer. The Brew Tech teacher advisor is Teresa Baxley, and the parent advisor is Lynn Higgins. Front row from left are Angelisa Newell, Taniya Frazier, Brianna Miles, Elexia McGill, Hannah Owens and Michael Trammer; and back row, Steven Higgins, Tyra Wilson, Zariah Robinson, Justala Simpson, Ty Tompkins and Christopher Rogers.

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ACA Collects Socks for Charity

Alabama Christian Academy elementary students spent much of October gathering socks for the “Socktober” service project. ACA then donated the 1,010 pairs of socks collected to those less fortunate here in our own community. Elementary counselor Cecilia Porterfield notes that “this was our first time participating in Socktober and we feel it was a major success. Our students liked that we were able to help individuals in our local community.” This service project was organized by Porterfield and run by the members of the ACA National Elementary Honor Society chapter, who counted and sorted the socks as they came in for donation.

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STJ Senior Marches in Macy’s Parade

Saint James School senior Kayla Carr marched and played clarinet in the 88th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade held November 27 in New York. She has developed and nurtured her love of music while playing with the Saint James Marching Trojans for the past seven years. In June, Carr submitted a video of herself playing a piece of music of her choosing, but within the grade level and time constraints mandated by Macy’s. She was informed within a week that she had been selected to be a part of the 2014 Macy’s Great American Marching Band. Each chosen band member was sent the parade tunes and required to learn and memorize the music before arriving in New York the weekend before Thanksgiving. Carr was assigned a group of roommates – friendships she says she will always cherish. The Band had the equivalent of two days of rehearsal broken into four days and then reported bright and early (2:20 a.m.) for its grand performance on Thanksgiving morning. Carr and the Macy’s Great American Marching Band played “Shake It Off” by Taylor Swift at Herald Square, which is the performance that was broadcast to more than 50 million TV viewers. As the members marched the 2.5-mile parade route, the Band played “Locked Out of Heaven” by Bruno Mars to 3.5 million spectators. “I thought the early hour and long route were going to be tiring,” Carr explained. “But the music was so fun to play and the energy from the crowd and the other band members made it truly a lifechanging experience for me.” Carr served as a section leader for the Saint James Marching Trojans this fall. The Band successfully competed in various contests throughout the season and earned the distinguished title as Bands of America Class A Champions in Atlanta this November.

Georgia Washington Students Ring Bell for Salvation Army

Georgia Washington Junior High’s Student Council got into the giving spirit this season by volunteering as bell ringers for the Salvation Army. The activity is part of the school’s emphasis on learning service and teaching children the importance of giving back to their community. 27

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Cornerstone Plans Information Meeting

Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy will hold its annual Community Information Meeting and Open House Thursday, January 22, at 7 p.m. The meeting will be held in the chapel of Morningview Baptist Church located at 125 Calhoun Road in Montgomery. At the meeting, interested families will hear a presentation on classical Christian education by Principal Priscilla Stewart. There will also be a demonstration of the methodology used in classical education by the fourth-grade students led by teacher Christy Taunton. Parents will be given a tour of the school’s classrooms and an opportunity to meet with the faculty. For more information on classical education or on Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy, please visit www. ccamontgomery.org.

MA Supports Charity During Holiday Season

Members of the Montgomery Academy community spent a recent Saturday ringing bells for the Salvation Army as part of MA’s Awareness in Action program. Awareness in Action is a unique service program in 7th & 8th grade that starts with an assembly that informs students about a specific service organization and concludes by giving students the opportunity to help the organization they learned about through a hands-on volunteer experience. Seventh-graders also delivered holiday stockings to the Salvation Army. These stockings were filled with toiletry items and small toys and crayons by the students in the Latin Club and the Interpersonal Relations class. Montgomery Parents I January 2015

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Montgomery Catholic Club Sends Gifts to Children’s Hospital

Carrie Woodling, a senior in the Key Club at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School, made a suggestion in a Key Club meeting at school one day that the club should send gifts to children who have to be in the hospital at Christmas time. The suggestion was in response to fellow senior and Key Club Division 14 Lt. Governor Derek Kelly’s request for service project ideas from the club. After that meeting, Woodling took the reins of that project, researched ideas, and found information on the Children’s Hospital web site all about the Sugar Plum Shop, a place where parents of children in the hospital can select gifts for their children. Woodling made signs to put up around the Montgomery Catholic High School campus and collected a wide variety of gifts for boys and girls of all ages. She then enjoyed delivering them to the hospital in early December. With Woodling are Catholic senior Ann Faulkner, left, and Derek Kelly, right.

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Macon East Artists on Exhibit at MMFA Five Macon East art students, taught by MEA art instructor Tiffany Ala, were honored to be selected as part of the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts quarterly ARTWORKS Corridor Exhibition. The gallery exhibition theme for this quarter is “Phenomenal Paper,” and local high school students submitted art consistent with the current MMFA gallery display. There were 216 entries from 18 area schools and 65 were selected for the exhibition. The MEA art students with pieces currently on display at the museum are: Meri-Kathryn Bright, Braxton Bundy, Kirksey Jones, Christian Steyer and Hannah Walters. Bright and Jones both submitted entries in photography titled “Spanish Moss in the Sunlight” and “Broken Tractor.” Walters’s artwork “Buttoned Winslow” was a portrait of Winslow Homer made entirely out of buttons. Steyer’s drawing of a man using white charcoal on black paper was titled “Smoke and Mirrors,” while Bundy’s “Fish of the Sea” drawing was created using sharpies.

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Macon East Names AISA All-Stars

Eight football players and cheerleaders represented Macon East Academy and the AISA East team in the AISA All-Star game at Cramton Bowl December 5. The players were selected by their coaches based on their performance for the Knights throughout the season. The cheerleaders competed at the AISA’s UCA cheer camp this summer to be selected to the All-Star squad. The East team fell to the West 36-30 in the final seconds of the game. In addition, Morgan Pounds, at left, represented Macon East at the AISA All-Star Volleyball game held November 1 at the Montgomery Multiplex. She played for the East team which was coached by Macon East’s Erica Hammonds. As a senior and middle blocker, Pounds has been a leader on the Lady Knights volleyball team for several seasons. In 2014 the Lady Knights won their fourth state title in as many years. The East All-Star team defeated the West in best three out of five play. Bottom, from left are Dallas Sanders, Tripp Adams, Taylor Jackson, Tyler Sheehan, Cameron Redding, Zachary Kervin, Kenzie Gourlay and Patrick Beck.

MA Middle School Incorporates Leadership Training into Curriculum

This year, seventh- and eighth-grade students at The Montgomery Academy are participating in a new leadership program with a curriculum based on Dr. Martin Stegemoeller’s definition of leadership. The program is the result of a 2013-2014 goal to develop and implement formal leadership training for every MA student. In 2013, a committee of faculty members led by Gary Nelson and Andy Roth explored how leadership and ethics are taught in schools throughout the country and developed a course for the 2014-2015 school year. Students in seventh and eighth grades meet in small groups weekly to examine topics including ethical leadership, empathy, non-traditional leadership, and traits of leadership. After an initial discussion, the concepts are reinforced though continued conversation regarding the topics during their advisee time. One of the most successful topics to date involved what leaders should do when faced with difficult people. The discussion began with students learning about Dr. Brinkman and Dr. Kirschner’s ten types of difficult people, including “the tanks,” “the grenades” and “the no-persons.” In the session, the students took a humorous look at each of the personality types based on a made-up scenario of students planning a theme for Homecoming week. To close, Nelson revealed, to many students’ surprise, everyone is at least one of these difficult personalities in the opinion of someone else. During advisee discussions, students concluded that each of the difficult types involved a person being self-focused. Students were challenged in their role of leaders to focus on the collective, not the individual (what is right instead of who is right) and to be role models to their group. “This is a one-of-a-kind program we are offering our students,” explained Nelson, who leads the small group discussion, “showing that leadership is not about holding a title, but instead comes from a concern for the community you are a part of, whether it be your team, your school, or even the city where you live. By establishing the training as a requirement for seventh- and eighth-grade Academy students, we emphasize the importance of ethical leadership and hope that by implanting these values, our students continue to grow their leadership roles in the Upper School. We encourage every person to grow their role in those communities and find some way to make other people in their group better. In the program, we focus on engaging students and challenging them to be honest, competent, forward thinking and inspiring- all traits of successful leaders.” Montgomery Parents I January 2015

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ECA Spanish Class Uses Language Skills

Evangel Christian Academy’s Spanish class has been working hard all year to learn various words in Spanish. The group has also been working on conversational and pronunciation skills. In order to bring the new vocabulary to life, the students were required to write and produce parodies based on everyday language and scenarios in the Hispanic world. Each group performed a short play for classmates who in turn had to interpret the dialogue into English.

STJ Kindergarten Class Performs Holiday Play

The Saint James School kindergarten class presented the play The Littlest Christmas Tree to a standing-room-only crowd of parents, siblings, special friends and STJ Senior Buddies. The five-year-olds sang, danced and even featured a few character actors. The play’s message, which focused on looking beyond the surface and seeing the beauty in all things, was brought together by a touching solo by kindergartner Abigail Roark.

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Montessori @ Mulberry Reads at a Young Age!

Alyssa Kaplan, a student at Montessori @ Mulberry located in the Cloverdale area, is four years old and can already read. Each child has his own pace of learning and even different interests. To encourage reading, Kaplan and other students enrolled in the Montessori @ Mulberry preschool are provided a diverse selection of lessons, ideas and concepts to help them continue learning throughout the day. Director of Education Terri Jackson explains that one four-year-old may be ready to read while another is working on sound recognition. The Montessori philosophy knows each child learns at different paces and respects the skill level best suited for him. To learn more, call (334) 265-7733.

Holy Cross Runs Off To Strong Start

For a couple of years now, students at Holy Cross Episcopal School have participated in an Elementary Cross Country running team. Several days a week after school, these students run together, stretch and are generally supportive of one another. Students range from five to 12 years old but all run the three to four miles on training days. While training, students set as a goal to run a 5K race. Each year the first race has been the Jingle Bell Run for the Arthritis Foundation. On December 6, thirty-four students and parents from Holy Cross participated, raising more than $1,000 for the cause. Holy Cross Elementary Cross Country runners will run their next team race February 7 at the Junior League of Montgomery’s “Ready Set Geaux” race. The team intends to challenge other private independent schools in Montgomery to run the race as well.

Trinity’s Angel Choir Performs for Luncheon

Trinity’s Angel Choir recently performed for the Retired Officers Wives’ Club at the Arrowhead Country Club for the group’s annual Christmas luncheon. Angel Choir director and Lower School music teacher Wendy Cho directed the first-grade students in a selection of Christmas songs.

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Holy Cross Explores Branches of Government

Catholic Middle School Accepted to Honor Band

Nine middle school students from Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School applied and were selected to be a part of the 2014 Troy University Southeastern United States Honor Band. The students who attended the event at Troy December 4-6 were: eighth-graders Nick Bowden, Ricky Treloar, Emily Claire Talbot (not pictured), Zach Moore (not pictured); and seventh-graders Ashley Hayes, Whitney Jakim, Darian Riley, Hannah Vaccaro and Bobby Crawford. Alex Johnson is the band director.

Holy Cross Episcopal School fifth- and sixth-grade students participated in a full day of exploring state and local government recently. Students experienced a courtroom presided over by a Holy Cross parent, District Judge Jimmy Pool. Following traffic hearings, they observed bond hearings for a few incarcerated individuals. After court, the students traveled over to the Alabama Capitol for a tour and pictures. “It was so cool to see the things in person that we have spent the last year and a half studying,” said sixth-grader Ellie Pool. Then the children made a stop at the Goat Hill Gift Shop to purchase souvenirs. After a quick sack lunch on the steps of the Archives and History Building, it was on to the State House for their final tour. Greeting them was State Senator Quinton T. Ross, who has been selected as Senate Minority Leader, and State Representative Joe Hubbard, recently the Democratic nominee for attorney general. The students were privileged to be one of the first groups to see the new furniture (made by prison inmates) in the Alabama Senate Gallery. The students debated their own “bill” in a committee room before visiting the Alabama House Gallery. This trip was coordinated through the efforts of Holy Cross parent Judge Jimmy Pool.

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Cornerstone Studies Christmas Worldwide

A fond Christmas tradition has developed at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy prior to the school’s dismissal for Christmas vacation. Each year the seventh-grade geography students complete an in-depth research project on a country of their choice. The research includes all of the basic geographical and cultural information about the country. In addition, the student must research the way that Christmas is spent in their chosen country. Each seventh-grade student presents his or her findings in an oral presentation. Creativity flows as the students present native costumes, games or holiday foods from Christmas celebrations around the world. Anna Buxbaum is shown presenting her board on Austria.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

EVANGEL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY Evangel Christian Academy exists to partner with Christian parents to provide their child with a Christ-centered education. Our desire is to help each child achieve their God-given potential through providing activities designed to foster spiritual, academic and social growth. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord... Jeremiah 29:11

STJ Forensics Team Competes in New Orleans

The Saint James School Forensics Team finished 2014 with great success! Team coach Dr. Ian Turnipseed traveled with the team to Isidore Newman School in New Orleans and returned to Montgomery ranked fourth out of 42 schools. In Extemporaneous Speaking, Bradley Wascher took third place and Pearce Barringer received fourth. In Impromptu Speaking, Wascher placed first, Barringer placed fifth, and Hannah Yost was a Semi-Finalist. In Original Oratory, Barringer placed sixth. And in Humorous Interpretation, Erica Aho received sixth place. In addition to the tournament ranks, the team also qualified Wascher, Barringer and Aho to the Tournament of Champions.

Accredited: AISA, SACS-CASI, & ACTS

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

Trinity Receives Sportsmanship Award

The Central Alabama Football Officials Association awarded Trinity the Sportsmanship Award for the third consecutive year. This award is given to a school that exemplifies good sportsmanship and is based on a post-game report filed by each referee. The schools are rated on 10 categories: head coach, assistants, players, fans, parking, security, dressing room, chain crew, field and hospitality. Trinity ranked in the 96th percentile based on the reporting forms. Shown with all three awards are Head of School Kerry Palmer, Head Football Coach Randy Ragsdale, Athletic Director Harold Hilliard and Assistant Athletic Director Jessica Lassiter. 33

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Montgomery County Schools

Macon East Holds Special Chapel for Veterans Day

Macon East Academy’s November lower school chapel, presented by the fourth and fifth grades, was a celebration of Veterans Day and our country’s freedom. The guest speaker for chapel was Joy Skeleton, who spent four years in a Japanese concentration camp during World War II along with her mother and siblings. She spoke about her family’s experiences there and the hardships they endured to survive and eventually be reunited with her father. Skeleton also brought some interesting artifacts to share with the students. She told the assembly that we should always be mindful of how precious our freedom is in the United States and that we should never take it for granted.

MA Middle School Science Club Holds Egg Drop Competition

The Middle School Science Club at Montgomery Academy recently held its annual Egg Drop competition. Students worked in groups after school following two rules: only use the materials given and don’t attach anything to the egg. Groups practiced their drops at home and used tape, cotton balls, plastic bags and drinking straws to create a safe environment for their eggs. After the builders described their design to the entire class, classmates made predictions on which eggs would survive the drop based on the design techniques and took videos of the drops to use in a report on the project. Overall, four groups out of nine ended without a scrambled egg!

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Holy Spirit Students Meet Push-Up Challenge

Montessori @ Mulberry Accepting New Students

Students at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Holy Spirit Campus have been busily doing push-ups during the first semester. Coach Ken Klinger challenges the students each semester to a physical fitness competition. In August, Coach Klinger encouraged the students to complete 2,000 push-ups by December 15. For those who reach 2,000 or more, he will host a Push-Up popsicle party. During morning announcements on December 15, Coach Klinger congratulated the four students who reached and exceeded the goal. Fourthgrader Max Barranco was the top student with 3,125 push-ups. In second place was sixth-grader Cameryn Cool with 2,795 push-ups. Third place belongs to Auburn Wilcoxson, a fifthgrader, with 2,205. In fourth place was Emily Klinger, a fifth-grade student, who completed 2,028 push-ups. From left are Max Barranco, Emily Klinger, Auburn Wilcoxson and Cameryn Cool with Coach Ken Klinger at the Holy Spirit Elementary Campus.

Montessori @ Mulberry located in Cloverdale is now accepting students age 12 months to six years. “Beginning a child at this young age into our preschool allows us to build a deeper relationship with parent and child during their critical developmental stages,” says Director of Education Terri Jackson. “Many of our students are preparing for the magnet program and private school enrollment,” says Executive Director Jackie MaloyWatson. “This is one of the many benefits of a Montessori curriculum.” For more information, contact Maloy-Watson at (334) 265-7733 or visit montessoriatmulberry.com. Emme Kaplan is shown working with a practical life lesson at Montessori @ Mulberry.

Welcome one another, therefore, just as Christ has welcomed you, for the glory of God. ROMANS 15:7 Join us for Open House and experience how we

prepare students to become persons of faith, virtue, and wisdom.

Tuesday, January 13 / St. Bede Elementary Campus (K4-6)

4:30 – 6:30 p.m. / 3850 Atlanta Hwy., 36109 / 334-272-3033 Thursday, January 15 / Holy Spirit Elementary Campus (K4-6)

4:30 – 6:30 p.m. / 8580 Vaughn Rd., 36117 / 334-649-4404 Wednesday, January 21 / Middle & High School Campus (7-12)

4:30 – 6:30 p.m. / 5350 Vaughn Rd., 36116 Middle School 334-272-2465 / High School 334-272-7220 For more information about our school or to schedule a tour, call 334-272-7221 ext. 32.

St. Bede Elementary Campus Holy Spirit Elementary Campus Middle School Campus High School Campus www.montgomerycatholic.org

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M Montgomery County Schools

Trinity Announces 2015 Hall Of Fame Class

Trinity Presbyterian School recently announced the 2015 Class of the Trinity Hall of Fame. “Many wonderful people have been associated with Trinity School since its founding in 1970,” stated Head of School Kerry Palmer. “The Hall of Fame gives us an opportunity to pay homage to some of our best board members, school heads, teachers, coaches and alumni. Through this endeavor we honor our past and inspire a new generation.” The 2015 Class of the Trinity Hall of Fame includes: Mrs. Lynn Bloch, an English teacher at Trinity for 29 years who was revered by students and teachers alike; Mr. Philip Gidiere, who served on the board of directors numerous times and as president seven times; Dr. Julian Jones, DDS (posthumously), who served Trinity in many capacities, including a member of the first board of directors, board president and chairman of the first board faculty committee; Mrs. Mary Katherine Payne, a fourth-grade teacher for more than 25 years; Mrs. Adelyn Richardson (posthumously), known as “Mother Trinity” who continued to serve Trinity until her death in 2008; Rep. Martha Roby, a member of the Class of 1994 and the first Trinity graduate to serve in the U. S. House of Representatives; Judge Jan Shackelford, valedictorian of the Class of 1982 who now serves as a circuit court judge in Florida; and Mr. Warren Stephens, 1975 graduate of Trinity who is one of the most successful businessmen in the United States, recognized by Forbes for his achievements. This year’s inductees will be recognized on February 3 during an assembly at Trinity as well as the Hall of Fame banquet at Trinity Presbyterian Church in Trinity Hall. Trinity’s first state championship team, the 1976-77 Boys Varsity Basketball Team, will also be recognized.

ACA Volunteers to Serve Local Organizations

More than 360 Alabama Christian Academy high school students, grades 9-12, volunteered their time at 17 local organizations during the annual Wilburn and Jean Bullington Service Day, where students helped to fulfill the different needs of each organization. Students provided hands-on help by organizing donations, cleaning, helping to remove debris, performing yard work and providing any additional work that the organizations needed. Other students also had the opportunity to sing to the elderly in nursing homes. “We want not only to prepare our students through academics, but we also want to train them up to always serve others,” said ACA President Dr. Milton Slauson. “Alabama Christian Academy is a Christ-centered school and as such, we want to provide opportunities for our students to give back and serve others.” Organizations that the ACA students served include: Adullam House, Montgomery Clean City Commission, Compassion 21, Tail’s End Humane Society of Elmore County, Ft. Toulouse, Easter Seals - Central Alabama Care Project, Autauga Creek Trails Improvement Committee, Family Sunshine Center, Montgomery Education Foundation, Alabama Wildlife Federation and One Church Mission. The ACA Chorus also visited the Angels for the Elderly, Eastdale Estates and Wesley to sing for the residents. Montgomery Parents I January 2015

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MA’s Woerner Presents at National Conference

Montgomery Academy Upper School Biology teacher Laura Woerner recently presented at the National Association of Biology Teachers (NABT) 2014 Professional Development Conference held in Cleveland, Ohio. According to their website, NABT was founded in 1938 and allows life science educators from around the world to share experience and expertise with colleagues, keep up with trends and developments in the field, and grow professionally. In May, Woerner was invited to present at the conference geared towards educators in life science at the high school and collegiate level. Speaking to 30 educators from across the country, Woerner’s presentation titled “Affordable Anatomy” examined three hands-on, student-driven activities on the skeletal, muscular and nervous systems that cost only pennies to complete. In addition to attending and presenting at the conference, Woerner also received a grant to attend a special workshop held the day before the conference began. The special workshop focused on the area of neurobiology. In the workshop, she completed several hands-on activities that she will use in her biology, anatomy, and AP biology courses at MA. “Presenting at the conference was a very exciting experience, and I enjoyed working with other life science teachers during my sessions,” Woerner said. “Overall, it was excellent for my professional growth, and I feel like it’s given me more tools to use in my classroom to promote STEM.”

Cornerstone Students Visit Mann Museum

As part of their science study on the biomes of the world, students in Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s second-grade class visited the Mann Museum at the Montgomery Zoo. Prior to the field trip, all of the students in the class completed a biome report complete with a visual display. A highlight of the study was the oral presentations that each student gave regarding their biome research. Samantha Bell and Riley Carroll are shown at the Montgomery Zoo.

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Eastwood Announces Writing Contest Winners Eastwood Christian School had eight winners in the Roxie Lancaster Children’s Holiday Writing Competition. This popular essay contest is co-sponsored annually by the Arts Council of Montgomery, The Montgomery City-County Public Library, Friends of the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Regions Bank. Students in first through fifth grades are encouraged to enter. Shown are Jack Whatley, 4th grade; Ben Duggar, 3rd grade; Merritt Lee, 5th grade; Neva Schoettker, 4th grade; Mary Elizabeth Mauney, 5th grade; Andrew Ewald, 2nd grade; Anna Beth Coon, 3rd grade; and Sophia Conoly, 3rd grade.

ENROLL NOW FOR WINTER 2014-2015

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Montgomery County Schools

STJ Welcomes Judge James

Montgomery Municipal Court Judge Lloria James visited Andrea Harris’s third-grade class at Saint James School recently to talk about her responsibilities as a judge. The class has been studying the judicial branch of government in social studies and Judge James gave the students a firsthand account of what serving as a judge means to the community.

Volunteers Plant Trees at Carver

The Trees for Schools program has beautified local campuses since 2007. Volunteers gathered Dec. 16 to plant Shumard oak trees on the campus of Carver High School in Montgomery. The group includes members of Montgomery Trees, a local environmental organization, the City of Montgomery’s Urban Forestry Division and Alabama Power. Students at the school will take over maintaining the trees, watering them once a week over the course of the next year. The Shumard oaks were chosen for their durability and tolerance of diverse soil conditions.

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New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.

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We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?

Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...

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first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,

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• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T OWER • O UTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING •

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Holy Cross Studies ‘Las Posadas’

In Spanish, Holy Cross Episcopal School students have been learning about the Christmas celebration “Las Posadas.” This term “Las Posadas” literally translates to “the inns” or “the lodgings,” and is celebrated mostly in Mexico, but other Hispanic countries such as Spain also celebrate it. This holiday is all about Jesús/ Jesus and is a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s journey from Nazareth to Bethlehem in search for Posada/lodging. Furthermore, it begins on December 16 and ends on December 24, lasting for nine nights to correlate with Mary and Joseph’s nine-day journey. Particularly in Mexico, the people walk in a procession down the street going from house to house singing a special request for shelter in Spanish. These people are called the peregrinos/ pilgrims and some are dressed as Mary, Joseph, angels, shepherds, and musicians. On the other hand, the people on the inside of the house are called the posaderos/innkeepers and refuse the outside people posada/lodging until the last house lets Mary and Joseph in. Once in, they gather together and sing, piñatas are broken, good food is eaten, and the festivities continue well into the night. December 18, Holy Cross held its annual “Las Posadas” celebration at the school. Every year, the 5th- and 6th-graders are the peregrinos/ pilgrims, who walk in a procession down the hallway going from classroom to classroom asking for shelter in Spanish. Pre-kindergarten through fourth grade, on the other hand, are the posaderos/innkeepers and deny the peregrinos shelter by saying “NO POSADA/NO SHELTER!” However, when the 5th- and 6th-graders get to their classroom, they are welcomed in as Mary and Joseph eventually were. Additionally, the 5th- and 6th-grade students broke open a piñata, which was enjoyed by the younger students.

Cornerstone Sixth Grade Enjoys American Village

Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s sixth-grade class enjoyed a day of learning away from the school campus at The American Village in Montevallo. Under the direction of teacher Mona Robinson, the students spent a day re-enacting scenes from America’s War for Independence. The students in the sixth grade enjoy a year full of American history completing an overview of the founding of our nation to the present time. In addition to numerous field trips, the students enhance their learning experience with a variety of classic literature selections. The students learn a great deal in history and have the opportunity to expand their understanding of the important people and events that have shaped our nation’s history. 39

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Montgomery County Schools

Saint James School Wins at Youth Judicial The Saint James School Youth Judicial teams competed November 1-3 against more than 600 participants from 56 teams across Alabama in the YMCA Youth Judicial three-day Mock Trial Competition for High School Students in grades 9-12. They returned to campus victorious! The STJ Premier League team, which is comprised of high school students in their first year of competition, earned First Place Defense Team, Outstanding Attorney, and Outstanding Witness. Team members are all STJ high school freshmen and their success qualifies the group to compete at the National Mock Trial competition in Chicago this summer. Their attorney coaches were Grant Sexton, a Saint James alum, and Arthur Ray. The award-winning Defense Team includes Sydney Brashears (lawyer), Stephen Sadie (lawyer), Annie Skoneki (lawyer), Claudia Hubbard (witness), Whitman Kent (witness), Katie McIntyre (witness), Denson Clark (witness), and Maddy Grace Hunter (witness). Brashears was named the Outstanding Attorney and Kent was named the Outstanding Witness. In the Major League competition, STJ took 2nd Place Plaintiff Team which qualifies the group to compete at Nationals in Chicago this summer as well. The team includes STJ seniors Sadie Argo (lawyer), McLean Stewart (lawyer), Jon Smithart (lawyer), Zuri Foster (witness), Sarah Kean (witness), and Jay Spivey (witness). This group’s attorney coaches were Scott Green, Shelly Pope Corley, and Hannah Torbert. The YMCA Youth in Government program gives students the opportunity to learn firsthand about government and civic issues by taking an active role in the democratic process, boosting youth development, and contributing to a stronger community. In that vein, STJ sophomore Harrison Carter ran at the District 3 meeting and was elected one of the judges for Youth Judicial. Kaitlyn Worsham served as Carter’s bailiff; Ty Deemer, Mathew Garnett and Hannah Yost served as Deputies. Two other STJ teams successfully placed in the top 10 of the competition - Plaintiff Team coached by attorney Beth Poe: Lexie Larson (lawyer), Kendall McCann (lawyer), Emma Moody (lawyer), Emily Blackwell (witness), Emily Livings (witness) and Abi Young (witness); and Defense Team coached by attorney Cameron McEwen: Ginny Lampkin (lawyer), Robert Griggs (lawyer), Taylor Meadows (lawyer), Caitlin Hicks (witness), Carly Mattox (witness) and Blake Sanders (witness). Several Saint James students worked on the Social Media Team for the competition. The Social Media Editor was Makenzie Montiel, while Sally Brown, Anna Montgomery Parents I January 2015

Claire Bullard, Molly Grace Denham and Lindsey Holcombe were writers and photographers. State Youth Governor Cassie Sadie (STJ ‘15) opened and closed the competition with remarks to the entire body of participants. She encouraged the delegates to attend the YMCA State Youth Legislature in February and she charged the competitors to fulfill the goal of the Youth in Government program: to develop young people who will be better citizens by being both knowledgeable and active in determining the future of our democracy. Continuing their work while faculty members, Saint James School retired teachers Kay McGaughey and Cindy Somerville served as advisors to the STJ students attending the competition.

Bo aw sh wo an an

Shown above, STJ Premier League Team, standing from left: freshmen Sydney Brashears, Whitman Kent, Stephen Sadie, Denson Clark, and Katie McIntyre; seated from left, freshmen Annie Skoneki, Claudia Hubbard and Maddy Grace Hunter.

At right, STJ Senior Plaintiff Team, standing from left: John Smithart, Jay Spivey, and McLean Stewart; and seated from left, Zuri Foster, Sarah Kean and Sadie Argo.

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Saint James Buddies Bridge the Age Gap

Saint James School started a River Region “first” in the fall of 1997. The school launched a buddy program for seniors and kindergartners to work together on particular projects throughout the year, bridging the age gap from elementary school to high school. The students enjoy spending time together including field trips to the Zoo, painting pumpkins for Halloween, making Christmas ornaments for each other in December, sitting together at Christmas convocation, eating lunch together, and the pinnacle of the year – walking together before graduation during Senior Walk. Shown, STJ Kindergarten and Senior Buddies make Christmas ornaments together.

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BTW Photography Magnet Sweeps Arts Competition

Booker T. Washington visual arts and photography magnet students won several top awards during the Montgomery Arts Council’s Doing Our Own Thing (DOOT) art workshops, exhibit, and sidewalk competition at the Armory Learning Arts Center. Students won first- and second-place awards and honorable mentions in the categories of black and white drawing, color drawing, mixed media, opaque painting, transparent painting and photography.

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Holy Cross Experiences The Spirit of Giving

In preparation for Christmas, students at Holy Cross have always participated in outreach projects that help them to refocus on the community around them. This year, resource teacher Marcia Bazzell arranged for the students to help the Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA). The students collected items to be distributed as goodie bags for people who receive Meals on Wheels, a program that delivers hot meals to homebound seniors. Connie MacDonald’s fifth-grade class learned that the reason MACOA gives out these goodie bags is because many of the people they help do not have friends or family members who are able to visit them or give them Christmas gifts. It gave students a wonderful opportunity to talk about the elderly and how they are often neglected when they get too old to do the things they used to do. The class talked about how good they feel when someone remembers them with even a tiny unexpected gift. Students mentioned their own grandparents – those here and those no longer with us. Following these discussions, the fifth-graders decided to give up the $10 gift exchange that they planned for their Christmas party and asked their parents to buy socks with the money instead. They wanted to make sure that every person got at least one pair of socks in his bag. The fifth grade succeeded in helping Holy Cross surpass its goal of 250 pairs of socks, 150 jars of peanut butter and several bags of pet food for MACOA to distribute.

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Autauga County is proud of its musical talent! The Prattville High School Marching Band, The Pride of Prattville, has been extremely busy under the leadership of the Director Chris King, Associate Director Charles Darr, Assistant Directors Kenny Hall, Ashley Swenning, and Devan Stewart, Percussion Instructor Tom Forrester, and Auxiliary Instructors Amber Day, Gale Mallory, and Mandy Byrd. On September 27th, The Pride of Prattville traveled to Phenix City to compete in the Phenix City Invitational Marching Festival and returned home, bringing with them the overall top honor of “Best in Class Band.” The band also grabbed the top awards for “Best Majorettes” and “Best Dance Line.” The 31st Annual Heart of Dixie Band Festival, hosted by The Pride of Prattville, took place on October 11th at Stanley Jensen Stadium.

The festival featured seventeen bands from all over the state, as well as exhibition performances by the PHS Band and the Huntingdon College Band. On October 18th, the band traveled to Pell City to participate in the Pell City Marching Festival and again returned with the top award, “Best in Class Band” and the Dennis Diffie Award for “Most Entertaining Band.” The band’s show “La Musica!!” features the tunes “El Toro Caliente,” a medley, including “Habanera” from the opera Carmen, and Henry Mancini’s “It Had Better Be Tonight” revived by Michael Buble. The show concluded with an all-time marching band favorite, “Malaguena.” Marbury High School Northstars Marching Band finished the year with a bang! MHS competed in several competitions over the past few months and received top honors. On October 4th, MHS competed in the Southeastern States Marching Band Festival at Troy University and received all superior ratings. The Overall Band, Drum Major, Majorettes, and Percussion all received superior ratings. MHS also competed in the Pell City Marching Band Festival on October 18th and once again

received superior ratings. MHS brought home superior trophies in the following categories: Drum Major, Majorettes, Color Guard, Percussion, and Overall Band. The band’s theme “That 70’s Show!” features the tunes “Gonna Fly Now” (Theme from Rocky), “Beth” by Kiss, and “Kung Fu Fighting.” The show concludes with an all-time crowd-pleaser, “Free Bird.” Mr. David Simpson is the director of the MHS Northstars Marching Band. Jared Penton is the instructor for percussion, and Austin Green is the drum major. The Auxiliary Sponsor is Leslie Morgan. MHS will be represented at the Faulkner Marching Honor Band. Several students have performed in the Auburn Marching Honor Band and the Huntingdon Marching Band. Join Autauga County Schools on Facebook as we continue to showcase the wonderful things taking shape in our district. Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 16 years of experience in the education field as well as 25 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

AUM Homeschool Enrichment Classes

Beat the winter blues by giving your child the chance to learn about a variety of fun and exciting topics offered through AUM Homeschool Enrichment classes! Classes begin on January 22 and topics include: Artistic Expressions Air and Flight Weather Nature Buffs AUM Homeschool Enrichment classes provide learning opportunities for children ages 6-18 that aren’t available in a home setting due to the expense or mess left behind.

Register Today!

Visit ce.aum.edu or call 244-3804 to learn more. Montgomery Parents I January 2015

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Autauga County Schools

PCA Students Participate in Hour of Code Event

PJHS Beta Club Sponsors Successful Food Drive

Prattville Junior High School Beta Club (known as the BetaCats) sponsored a Canned Food Drive the week before Thanksgiving. The club promoted the program by offering paw prints for each can donated. Students could choose whether their paw print represented Alabama or Auburn. The competition was great and went down to the wire, but Alabama edged out Auburn by ONE CAN! Principal Stockman declared the real winner to be the Autauga Interfaith Council as the club collected more than 750 cans for those in need over the holiday season. Thanks to the Prattville Fire Department for picking up the cans and delivering them. Thanks to Janie Mohajerin for coordinating the efforts, and to all of our students who helped make someone’s holidays a little brighter.

Each year, millions of students worldwide participate in the Hour Of Code event. Prattville Christian Academy is once again honored to have had the opportunity to provide this experience during Computer Science Education Week (Dec. 8-14) for the thirdthrough seventh-grade students. Many exuberant PCA faces expressed their excitement during this hands-on experience, as they explored, created and discovered the processes that make technology function. PCA staff embraced the Hour of Code because the students enjoyed it so much last year, and the experience allowed them to instill a greater understanding of the advancing world our students encounter on a daily basis. “Recent studies have shown there will be ample technology related jobs in the future that will go unfilled,” said PCA Academic Integration & Student Information System Director Brigitte McCawley. “This is because students across the nation are not receiving the technology skills required for coding. This week was about teaching these young students that everything they do related to a computer, an iPhone, or an app required a person to write the code for it. We have to teach them not to fear it, and this demands those higher-order thinking skills that are vital to being successful in the classroom and beyond. Now that they understand this, they will be better equipped for their future.” Shown, third-grader Cooper Osborne is focused and plugged in during the Hour of Code at PCA.

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Surprise Guest Appears at PJHS Band Program

The Prattville Junior High School bands performed a Christmas program under the direction of Band Director Kenneth Hall and Assistant Director Ashley Swenning. Beginner Band, the 8th grade band, and the Jazz Band performed a collection of favorite Christmas classics and sing-alongs to a packed gymnasium of parents, family members, and community supporters. A surprise guest sang “Blue Christmas” as the grand finale. Prattville High School Band Director Chris King was all decked out in an Elvis costume to wow the crowd!

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Prattville Holds Spelling Bee

Prattville Elementary School held its annual school spelling bee December 12. Shown are runner-up Natasha Diaz, Principal Felissa Clemons and winner Sasha Guseva. Montgomery Parents I January 2015

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Prattville Jr. High Students Excel in Academic Testing

In the spring, Prattville Junior High School students were administered the ACT Aspire assessment in the areas of Reading, Writing, English, Math and Science. PJHS was above the National Average in every category for 7th and 8th grades. The school celebrated with a cookout for 8th grade students who were proficient in Reading and Math. More than 350 students were able to participate in the celebration.

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East Memorial Donates To Foreign Missions

East Memorial Christian Academy recently donated more than 100 “Hope for Christmas� bags to be sent to the mission in Haiti. Angie Dupree, sponsor of the project, is shown with the K 4 class.

PJHS Assembles Tree of Books

Conveniently located in the Mulberry District just off 1-85 at 2034 Clubview St.

Prattville Junior High School wanted to show its Christmas spirit in a little different manner this year. Three staff members and a couple of students worked hard to assemble a Tree of Books. Thanks to Mrs. Chieves and her helpers for their hard work and to Mrs. Meherg for the awesome dictionary tree topper. 47

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Elmore County Schools

Wetumpka High Racks Up at BEST Robotics Contest Out of 56 teams from 17 hubs across six states, Wetumpka High won the following awards from participating in the BEST Robotics Competition: BEST Award 2nd Place; BEST Award Category Winners Marketing Presentation 1st Place; Team Exhibit and Interview 3rd Place; Spirit and Sportsmanship 2nd Place; Team Video 2nd Place; and Web Page Design 3rd Place.

Holtville FCCLA Attends Leadership Conference

The Holtville High School FCCLA advisor and officers attended the Joint Leadership Development Conference (JLDC) in Birmingham November 20. The JLDC is a Career Tech based conference that is centered on the different Career Tech student organizations. A total of 60 students represented Elmore County. From left are Theresa Long (FCCLA advisor), Alissa Blackwell, Briana Gibson and Paisley Blackmon.

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KNOW

what to do in case of

suspected concussion. A concussion is a brain injury caused by a blow to the head or body. Even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior. Any athlete with a suspected concussion: l Should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY l Should be urgently assessed medically l Should not be left alone l Should not drive a motor vehicle In a medical emergency, call 911 or go directly to your local ER

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RES First-Graders Hold Elf Day!

Santa Claus was super busy this year so he enlisted the help of first grade elves at Redland Elementary School. After a morning of crafts, Christmas songs and hard elf work, the RES elf helpers posed for pictures with Mrs. Claus and a “real” elf from the North Pole!

Victory Baptist Football State Champs Again!

On November 7, the Victory Baptist Eagles football team won the state championship for a second year in a row, with two perfect seasons. The final score of the championship game against Cullman Christian School was 41-0. While all players worked tirelessly throughout the season, there were three senior stand-outs: Auston Deneve, Benton Dunklin and Will LeGrand, as well as one junior stand-out, Mason Byrd. Deneve is a two-time All-State player receiving Best Linebacker two years in a row and the MVP Defensive Player for the entire league in 2014. Dunklin is a two-time All-State Wide Receiver and Defensive Back for the league. LeGrand was named the All-State Defensive Player of the Year for 2014. Byrd has been an All-State player for the last two years, earning Best Quarterback his sophomore year and MVP Offensive Player of the Year for 2014. Credit for these two championship seasons also goes to VBS Coach Jim Hardy, who was honored with the Coach of the Year award for 2014.

Wetumpka High Names Pam Walker Teacher of the Year

Wetumpka High School’s Teacher of the Year is Pam Walker. Principal Dr. Robbie Slater presented Walker with the award in her classroom.

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Elmore County Schools

Eclectic Elementary Names Students of the Month

The following students are the Eclectic Elementary School Students of the Month for November: Kindergarten: Mickael Kelley, Brody Watson, Caitlyn Stone, Aubrey Strouse, Braden Killough, *Aly Schultz and *Claire Blakely; 1st Grade: Myah Bowden, Blair Ingram, Landon Prater, Anna Spivey, Gabe Tyson, Maggie Rhodes and Mason Pack; 2nd Grade: Jenna Wood, Carson Saucier, Ty Lensch, Sarah Lovelady, *Alora Cummings, *William Mann and *Madison Jolly; 3rd Grade: Hunner Mulder, Mason Jones, Camron Brown, Jacobie Brown, Kiley Graham and Chloe Mayfield; and 4th Grade: Skylar Dollar, Marzavius Robinson, Destiny Oates, Addi Ray and Jade Compton. * Not pictured

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WHS Students Help At Santa Breakfast

Wetumpka High School performing arts students helped at Breakfast with Santa December 12 at Wetumpka Elementary School. Jeff Glass is the lead teacher for the Performing Arts at WHS. From left are Emma Butler, Lauren Norris, Hayden Tadlock and Stacey Gilbert.

Redland Announces Spelling Bee Winners

Millbrook Middle Students Chosen for Honor Band The following Millbrook Middle School students were selected to perform in the Southeastern United States Middle School Honor Band held on the campus of Troy University December 4-6: Margo Cave, Michael Goodwin, Kimberly Harrison, Jessica Harrison, Will Hurley, Lauren Moseley and Megan Smith. Montgomery Parents I January 2015

Redland Elementary School held its annual spelling bee on December 9, with 46 students competing to win a spot at the county spelling bee competition. Boomerang, correctly spelled by Rylie Fureigh, was the winning word for third grade. Fourth-grade winner Gavan Baxley spelled churros correctly to win his bee. Leah Richardson spelled flourish correctly to win the fifth-grade bee. Edification was the winning word for sixth-grader Allison Casey. The winner of each grade will compete in the Elmore County spelling bee on February 4. Back row from left are 6th grade winner Allison Casey; runner-up Sidney Lee; 4th grade runnerup Carter Hardid; 5th grade winner Leah Richardson; front row are 3rd grade winner Rylie Fureigh; runner-up Rhett Pinkston; 4th grade winner Gavan Baxley; and 5th grade runner-up Benjamin Wilson. 50

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WES Helps Elmore County Food Pantry

Wetumpka Elementary School collected canned food and sold Alabama and Auburn footballs to raise money for the Elmore County Food Pantry. Auburn was the winner of the most footballs sold and Alabama had more canned food collected.

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Holtville Elementary Gets Daily Santa Report

Holtville Elementary School classrooms were visited by three elves for Christmas. Hess, Holt, and Heff are library elves that traveled daily to visit and report back to Santa how the students were doing in school. Mrs. McLemore, school librarian, got a Santa report daily which was announced each morning on the intercom. The students loved the elves and overall Holtville Elementary School had excellent reports from Santa.

WMS Student Body Attends Reptile Show

Wetumpka Middle School faculty members and students attended a Reptile Show that was held at the school in November. The objective of the Reptile Show was to educate students on the different reptiles they may encounter one day. Presenters provided information on the different reptiles and taught the students safety tips if they ever encountered a dangerous reptile. Types of reptiles that were brought were poisonous and nonpoisonous snakes, turtles, tortoises, lizards, and iguanas. Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.

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Elmore County Schools

WMS Collects Thousands For United Way Campaign

The faculty, staff and student body at Wetumpka Middle School participated in a United Way Drive to raise money for the charity. 86% of faculty made donations for a total contribution of $1,043.30. Student donations amounted to $1,128.29. Together the entire school donated $2,171.59. Any staff member who provided a donation to the United Way Drive was entered in a drawing to win a half day off with pay. Mrs. Pascal, special education paraprofessional, below left, participated and won! Any student who provided a donation to the United Way Drive name was entered in a drawing to win a gift certificate to Walmart. Student Peyton Hughes, below right, was the winner!

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Faulkner Mascot Visits Redland Pep Rally

Faulkner University cheerleaders and their mascot, Baldwin, joined in on the fun at Redland Elementary School’s Iron Bowl pep rally hosted by the first-graders. The cheerleaders showed off their stunts and Baldwin competed in a balloon race against Auburn’s Aubie. Whether the kids yelled, “War Eagle” or “Roll Tide,” no one could deny Baldwin soared like an Eagle in that RES T-shirt!

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A NEWA

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Frazer Activity Center Zumba Toning, Barre, Agility, & other classes available

Holtville Junior Civitans Visit Brantwood Children

$22/month unlimited classes or $4/individual class.

The Holtville High School Jr. Civitan Club visited Brantwood Children’s Home in December to learn about the home and to give back. Students provided the children with toiletries and donated money.

Days and times vary. For details contact Emily Spear at espear@frazerumc.org Take the time to ‘Breathe’ starting in January. This Wednesday night study includes 20 minutes of stretching, plus video & discussion time.

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Meteorologist Visits Victory Third-Graders

Meteorologist Ryan Stinnett from the Alabama News Network visited the third-grade class of Victory Baptist School. Students have just begun studying about the weather in science, and Stinnett’s visit gave the class the opportunity to ask questions. His knowledge of the weather piqued their interest in meteorology.

Redland Kindergartners Celebrate Thanksgiving

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Elmore County Schools

Victory Basketball Teams Perform Well in November

RES Kindergartners Attend Wetumpka Depot Show

Kindergartners from Redland Elementary School enjoyed a performance of Junie B. Jones: Jingle Bells and Batman Smells at the Wetumpka Depot Players Theatre. Following the performance, the students braved the cold weather with a picnic and playtime at Gold Star Park. Stacey Turner’s class is shown.

On November 17, the Victory Baptist Eagles basketball teams played Conecuh Springs Christian School. The junior varsity boys and varsity girls came out on top with final scores of 33-24 and 35-18, respectively. In the final game of the evening, the Conecuh Springs Eagles varsity boys were the winning team over the Victory Baptist Eagles in a final score of 60- 44. The next night, the Victory Eagles played Marion Academy Panthers and the junior varsity boys won with a final score of 37-20. For the varsity game, the Panthers came out with a final score of 51-38 over the Eagles. November 24, the Victory Eagles junior varsity boys and varsity girls played Lighthouse Christian Academy Pirates. The Victory Eagles junior varsity boys won 44-24. Carter Byrd led the JV boys’ team with his career high of 17 points. The Lady Eagles won their game 4828. Gabby White and Ally Weyant led the varsity girls with career high games of 18 and 12, respectively.

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Victory Kindergartners Visit Local Community Helpers

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Tallassee Students Participate in Montgomery Youth Orchestra

Four students from Tallassee High School participated in the Montgomery Youth Orchestra, led by Maestra Yvonne Collins. They held a Christmas concert at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. From left are Jean Leah Atkins (oboe), Charlcie Hathorn (flute/piccolo), Landon DuBose (trombone) and Madelaine Worley (clarinet). Tallassee band directors Robby Glasscock and Michael Bird were members of the Montgomery Youth Orchestra 25 years ago. Mrs. Collins was the conductor then, as she is today!

The Victory Baptist School K5 classes of Mrs. Griffin and Mrs. Bowman enjoyed a fun-filled field trip recently. They integrated their learning of community helpers by visiting a few of them in Millbrook. The classes started off visiting the Barber Berry Farms and learning about growing plants. They then headed to see the policemen at the Millbrook Police Department for a first-ever tour through their new facility. The students enjoyed their tour, starting from the 911 call center, to seeing the jail, to sitting in the courtroom. They then walked over to the Millbrook Fire Department to see the firemen and were allowed to inspect and sit in the fire trucks. At the end, the students watched the firemen demonstrate their ladder truck.

Millbrook Middle Names Science Fair Winners

Millbrook Middle School recently held its annual science fair, with the following winners: In the 5th grade Life Science category, 1st place went to Annabeth Hicks; 2nd place, Raegen Blame; 3rd place, Ayana Pinkston; and Honorable Mention, Sayunna Tolliver. In the 5th grade Physical Science category, 1st place went to Elizabeth Yoder; 2nd place, Jorden Daniel; 3rd place, Madison McElrath; and Honorable Mention, Jaylin Slater. In the 6th-8th grade Life Science category, 1st place went to Sean Rattan; 2nd place, Azlan Williams; 3rd place, Lindsey White; and Honorable Mention, Destiny Ingram. In the 6th-8th grade Physical Science category, 1st place went to Jessica Harrison; 2nd place, Abbi Jones; 3rd place, Marcus Coleman; and Honorable Mention, Carson Hughes.

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Getting a Grip on Sticks

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

If there’s a stick in the yard, you can bet a child is going to pick it up and use it. It may become a bat, a sword, a flag or any number of imagined playthings, but played with it will be. As an easy and accessible extension of the arm, sticks exert a siren’s call on kids who quickly integrate these simple tools into their world of play. The following toys and games use sticks as the base of operation for more fun activities that children can shake a stick at!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Pallina

Foam Master Pogo Stick

Designed with simplicity in mind, Pallina is a net enclosure that supports 20 bamboo sticks (coded with four colors) inserted crossways in random fashion. This criss-crossing of sticks are the temporary underpinning for a jumble of 16 colorful polished wooden balls. Players choose their colors and take turns slowly extracting their stick colors while preventing any of the balls of their chosen color from dropping. Suspense runs high as players strive to drop opponents’ balls while keeping their own color supported in the basket until the end. Combining sensitive touch and thoughtful strategy, Pallina is an elegant and eco-friendly game for a broad age-range of players.

Joining the ranks of skateboards, bikes, and scooters, the pogo stick is enjoying its own renaissance among kids who want to up their street sport ante. The Flybar Foam Master gets the jump on the competition with a foam-covered sturdy metal frame with recoil that supports users from 80 to 160 pounds. It also features secure grip handles and replaceable non-slip foot pads for the dedicated bounce master. The rubber tip base also provides great stability as kids increase their pogo skills and look toward flashier bounce tricks. Just add a cool helmet and this stick is in first gear for go!

(Hape)

(Flybar)

Majestix Juggling Sticks

Lincoln Logs Classic Edition

If your kid throws, flips, and tosses every stick he finds, consider channeling that energy toward the challenge of Majestic Juggling Sticks. Manipulated by two grips sticks, the tasseled flip stick can be balanced, tossed, spun, and rolled in a variety of flashy moves that will astound watchers. The tasseled ends of the flip stick provide both resistance to moderate speed as well as balanced weight that ensures smooth momentum through various tricks and manipulations. Free tutorials are easily found online and Jolly Llama also offers an instructional DVD. Made in the USA, Majestix Juggling Sticks are ideal for refining concentration, honing fine motor control and – in the end – adding performer to your child’s list of talents!

Invented by the son of famous architect and designer Frank Lloyd Wright, retro favorite Lincoln Logs remain the go-to choice for stickstacking kids! The classic edition of this time-tested set includes 86 all-wood logs, roof slats and eaves that are ideal for constructing a frontier cabin or any structure of a child’s design. With notched sides, Lincoln Log pieces loosely interlock as they are stacked, with the simplicity of gravity holding the walls and junctures in place. The classic edition features a great tin container for log storage after hours of constructive pretend play.

(Lincoln Logs)

(Jolly Llama!)

Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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for tin Ch rul co ma “Do not train a child to learn by force or harshness but direct them to it by what amuses their mind.” (Plato) I’m fairly sure we can trust that Plato knew something about effective discipline, although it occurs to me he was never a parent! Creating more peace at home is hard work. Even my most valiant attempts at discipline—teaching my children to obey the rules and exhibit self-control—reveal I am sorely lacking it myself. These discipline strategies offer straight talk to help us become more effective at discipline.

1. Resolve to Not Yell While shouting, we’re not in control. A study in The Journal of Marriage and Family (2003) revealed 88% admit to screaming at their kids. I wonder if the remaining 12% were just saving face? Not in the same room? Move physically closer. State your demands with a firm, business-type tone. Myrna Shure of Raising a Thinking Child says yelling makes children immune to yelling (which is why their room remains trashed after shouting seven times to clean it). In lieu of yelling, take a problem solving approach. If the conflict is picking up toys, ask how they think their disobedient behavior makes you feel and what they can DO to change that.

2. Stop Sizing ‘Em Up It can be hurtful if you constantly label your child, i.e. “You’re the laziest kid I’ve ever seen!” It is unfair and cruel to compare your child to siblings, friends, or cousins. It’s also unwise to praise that way i.e.“You’re the smartest!” Kids who hear these messages over and over can become depressed or confused when they eventually confront failure. If you have to vent, do it far away from their ears and don’t dwell on the negative. Frequently what seems like a deficit or weakness is a developmental lag that time and maturity will heal.

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3. Fine Tune the Manipulation Radar It may feel natural to befriend our children, but friends don’t tell their friends to brush their teeth, wear a jacket, work on the book report, and get off the phone. That is parent territory and what they truly need. (Similarly, your kids typically will not tell their friends “I hate you” or “You are the worst human on the planet.”) Recognize when your own need for acceptance and approval is getting in the way of disciplining your kids. Children need plenty of boundaries and rules. Overcompensating, giving in, and compromising boundaries won’t help them make good choices.

4. Keep Expectations in Check

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If your toddler refuses to share his Legos with a visiting playmate who has no trouble sharing, you may feel frustrated. But kids are under construction. Be mindful of whether you are simply expecting too much of your developing child. Understand your child’s unique disposition. Recognize cues they are not ready for a developmental achievement such as sharing toys or sleeping away from home. If you constantly go head to head with your child on the same issue, it is likely they are not yet equipped to move forward.

5. Ditch Wild Threats Here’s the scene: at the beach with your six year old, he holds a handful of sand and sports a sly grin as you threaten for the 25th time, “We will all have to leave immediately if you throw sand ONE MORE TIME.” If you frequently make idle threats, your kids have already learned you’re a fraud and won’t alter their behavior. Essentially, you are teaching a dangerous disconnect: it’s okay to say one thing and do another. Be ardent about how you want your kids to behave BEFORE they step foot on the beach, a friend’s house or the department store. If you have to dole out punishment, make sure the consequence is reasonable and will be carried out. Don’t threaten, “I’m going to leave you alone on this beach if you don’t straighten up.”

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Listening is a simple but powerful way to show love. It is a skill at which we can all improve, and it starts with the simple idea of shutting up. Pastoral counseling professor David Augsberger indicates, “Being listened to is so close to being loved, that most people don’t know the difference.” you…” you enter a danger zone. You are buying their compliance which may not be for sale in any given circumstance. Give rewards and praise for good behavior, but don’t promise to give stickers, candy, or cash as this is a disciplinary pattern which will ultimately backfire.

7. Curb Excessive Talking

Instead of a monologue like, “Dental hygiene is so so very important, honey. When we take care of our little teeth, the toothbugs can’t attack ‘em and we won’t have to go to Mr. Dentist who scares you and has the drillmajig that’s so very very loud,” just say, “Brush ‘em good.” Otherwise, kids can negotiate themselves out of good behavior. Excessive talk slows everyone down and also annoys everyone around you.

8. Improve Lazy Listening

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If your kids aren’t listening, it may be in part due to your inability to hear them. If you do all the talking and shut down when they talk, you are modeling poor listening skills. Your kids could adopt these poor skills and fail socially. Neuroscientist Mark Brady authored A Little Book of Listening Skills and says, “Learning to stop talking so much and to listen is a powerful step in loving ourselves and other people. In a world full of talkers, a skillful listener shines like the Hope Diamond.” Listening is a simple but powerful way to show love. It is a skill at which we can all improve, and it starts with the simple idea of shutting up. Pastoral counseling professor David Augsberger indicates, “Being listened to is so close to being loved, that most people don’t know the difference.” We can all benefit in our relationships by keeping that wise thought in the forefront of our minds as we strive to more effectively discipline our kids. mp Michele Ranard is a professional counselor, academic tutor, and freelance writer with a blog at hellolovelystudio.com.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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Now, that the hustle and bustle of the holidays is over, it’s time to focus on yourself for once. Yes, that’s what I said! With all of the time you’ve spent on your families, friends, work, planning parties or going to events, now it’s time to step back and embrace the new year with a new you. The simplest resolution would be to start off with your style. We all know that fashion is an ever changing industry with many new trends and styles to choose from every year, but personal style is something much more. It can be tempting to follow trends and not pay too much attention to our more individual preferences. How many of us have one or two of those go to items in our closet that we love? Let’s just say that those items have been hanging in our closets for at least a few years, and that’s okay, but let’s look into finding new items to add to those. I am not saying let’s jump right into the latest fads though. Defin-

ing your personal style does not mean that you have to pick out a particular category, such as “preppy,” “street style” or “vintage,” and rule out things from any other style. A large part of the process is realizing that nothing is off limits. I always tell my clients that with a little confidence...you can pull off any look that you want. I want to show you how to piece together new items and weed out the old. It’s fine to hang onto those items that may work well with your body, but at some point those items may need replacing.

1. Take inventory of what you currently have and clean out what you don’t want. A good rule of thumb is that if you haven’t worn it in a year, you likely won’t wear it again.

2. Make a list of basics that you are lacking. Often the most inspiring outfits are created when people style something basic in an interesting way.

3. Researching your style is very important. Read your favorite fashion blogs and magazines, visit your local department stores or consult a stylist for guidance on updating your style.

4. Slowly start introducing pieces of your new style into your wardrobe. It isn’t about a total overhaul, but

5. Make sure your shopping day is stress free. Why, you ask? When you have less distractions you tend to be calm and more open to new ideas.

6. Take pictures or take a fashion forward friend with you to shop. If you can’t find that perfect shopping buddy then take pictures of your outfits and send them to someone you can trust for styling opinions.

7. Dress your best when shopping. Wear appropriate undergarments, makeup and hair. Doing these simple things can really bring your style/outfit to life.

8. Don’t be afraid of your new style. Style is supposed to be a fun thing, a source of expression in your everyday life. What better way to commit to something after the holidays other than the normal New Year’s resolutions. Remember that having a personal style does not mean having a label. Wear what you like! Every outfit does not have to fit into a category or specific trend. The most important thing is that you find a style you enjoy wearing and that makes you feel like yourself. Happy New Year... and Happy New You!

Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern.com or visit her website and read her blogs at www. centsiblysouthern.com.

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Private schools offer several advantages specific to students of which you as a parent need to be aware. Here are three of them:

Private schools typically set aside a weekday afternoon for sports. Everybody participates in something. Private schools believe in educating the whole child. Consequently physical activity is part of the regular program. More importantly participation in sports teaches your child how important exercise is for her well-being. Teaching her the value of regular exercise while she is young will foster a routine and rhythm to her daily and weekly activities which will enhance the quality of her adult life. Extracurricular activities are not ‘extra’ in most private schools. Nor is participation optional. Once again, everybody participates in some club or group. Your daughter may not be the next Renee Fleming, but she will always remember the thrill of the school’s glee club performing in some famous venue when they all went on a club trip. Teaching students that what they thought was impossible is in fact possible with some hard work and effort is an invaluable lesson. That’s what schools and teachers do. Academics, sports and extracurricular activities comprise the three parts to the ‘stretching’ process which will impact your child. All are beneficial both in her life as a young person and in later life. They embody the school’s mission to educate the whole child. She isn’t attending school just to learn physics and math. She’s there to exercise her body and learn how to work with her teammates to win the game. She’s there to sing in the glee club or play trumpet in the band. These three activities will produce a child who is well-rounded and ready for anything. All you have to do is offer your constant encouragement and approval.

1. Your child will build a network of friends which he will have for life.

Some of you may wonder why I would put this benefit for students at the top of my list. That’s because I sincerely believe that networking is the key to success in just about everything these days. Because most private schools are fairly small communities - the typical private high school is about 350 students - your child will have a really good chance of getting to know almost everybody in the school community, especially his classmates. While your child may come from an entirely different background, perhaps even country, from her classmates, he will get to know everybody in the classroom as well as on the playing field and on the stage. With social media such as Facebook, Twitter, Flickr, Instagram and LinkedIn providing instantaneous communications these days, it is fairly easy to keep that high school network of friends going after he graduates. This close-knit network of friends from school will help open doors for years after he graduates. The bonds of friendship developed in private school are an important advantage for a private school student as he begins his career. Private schools are able to build team spirit and school pride because everybody is on the same page. Remember: you chose the school and the school chose you. Both parties mutually agreed to this partnership. There’s no passive acceptance factor here. You didn’t have to send your child to a school simply because you lived within school district boundaries. You wanted your child to attend that specific private school. That school wanted him to attend. Implicit in that acceptance is that you bought into the school’s aims and objectives, philosophy and the general way things are done. Without constant distractions from parents who have other agendas, it really is possible to build community spirit and a sense of purpose within a school. That in turn builds strong bonds among the students as they progress through their high school years and then finally head off to college and their careers. An important constant - an anchor if you will - is that network of friends which he has built during her years at private school. It is a distinct advantage of attending private school.

3. She will build confidence in her own abilities as she accomplishes things she probably didn’t realize she could accomplish.

The ability of a skilled teacher to see the potential each of her students has is just part of the DNA teachers are born with. Your daughter may have no clue what the Fermat theorem is. She may even hate math. But watch the transformation which occurs as one day that “Eureka!” moment happens. She will ‘get it’ and suddenly realize how it works and that she can do it. Then on to the next challenge. Teaching children how to cope with challenges, how to think critically, how to synthesize information and how to solve problems is another tangible benefit of a private school education for your child. Small class size makes real teaching possible. Your child will not simply be a number. She will be one of a dozen or so students seated around a table with her teacher. Analysis, discussion and debate, opinion, research and presentation skills are all part of her learning experience. The advantage here is that a private school education can be a solid preparation for college work. With all the negative in the world today building confidence and a ‘can do’ attitude in our children is critically important. Private schools set personal growth as a goal for each student. Yes, it happens at different rates of speed. But three or four years after she enters the school, she will be a much more confident young person who can handle just about anything life will throw at her as a result of all the experiences which she has had at her private school. A final word to you as a parent: your child is probably not going to appreciate how these three benefits work together to produce the results you know are possible and very much want. Don’t dwell on that. She will look back in a few years and realize what a wonderful thing you did for her. Do I sound manipulative? Of course! But for the right reasons. mp

2. She will be stretched by the demands of rigorous academic studies combined with compulsory athletics and required extracurricular activities.

The amount of work involved in and intensity of private school academics are a game changer for most young people. They begin to ask themselves “Is it my best?” versus “I can get away with that.” The rigorous academics in most private schools expect greatness. Your child’s personal best. The teaching and the coursework is designed with that goal in mind. Children will rise to those expectations, too. Perhaps that is something a helicopter parent can’t understand. The reality is that if everybody in her class is working hard and doing their best, so will she. Peer pressure works in a classroom, too.

Article contributed by Robert Kennedy of www.privateschoolreview.com.

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Building the lives of young people on Jesus Christ, the chief cornerstone. WHAT IS CORNERSTONE CLASSICAL CHRISTIAN ACADEMY? Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy is a unique academic community where students’ minds and lives are shaped by the truth of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Our students are called to a high academic standard without compromising character or conduct. By utilizing the classical model of education, our students are provided the knowledge, reasoning and communication skills needed to contribute winsomely to their culture and to defend their faith.

CURRICULUM Cornerstone offers our students a curriculum that is meant to be academically challenging, spiritually rewarding and college preparatory. In the grammar grades the curriculum allows our students to acquire competence in reading, writing and mathematics. Incremental instruction using Saxon phonics, Horizons and Saxon math as well as Shurley Grammar and the Excellence in Writing curriculum gives our students a firm foundation in these critical subjects. History, Bible and science allow our young students to see God’s hand in His world. In the upper grades students have opportunity for in-depth studies in all areas of academics. Cornerstone’ emphasis on integration of subject matter through our Omnibus program helps develop in our students a Biblical worldview rooted in the Lordship of Jesus Christ. In addition students have instruction in upper level science, math, theology and languages.

TEACHER QUALIFICATIONS Cornerstone employs teachers who are exemplary in their testimony for Christ, desire to disciple young people within the context of a Christian school, and have expertise in their field of instruction. Our teachers receive training in the classical model of education with oversight and periodic evaluation by the principal. Each teacher is encouraged to pursue accreditation with the Association of Classical and Christian Schools.

SCHOOL DAY SCHEDULE School hours are 8:00 am - 2:30 pm Monday through Thursday. School dismisses at noon each Friday. Some extracurricular activities meet after school or on Friday afternoons.

CLASSROOM SIZE The Board of Directors and administration recognize the importance of individual attention that students must receive to be successful. We seek to maintain small class sizes while keeping tuition fees affordable. We intend to limit the kindergarten and first grade classes to 12 students. Other classes are limited to 16-18 students.

TUITION COST At this time our tuition payment covers all school related expenses with the exception of personal school supplies and student uniforms. $50.00 . . . . . . . . . . . .Application Fee (non-refundable) $3,685.00 . . . . . . . . . . .1st through 6th grade $250.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Enrollment and Book Fee $4,015.00 . . . . . . . . .7th through 12th grades $3,355.00 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Kindergarten

ADMISSIONS PROCESS Parents are invited to inquire as to the difference a classical Christian education can make in the lives of their children and family. We invite families that share our educational goals, are intentionally rearing children using a Biblical model and are actively involved in an evangelical church to apply for admission to Cornerstone. An application, pastoral reference form, entrance test and family interview are required. Information, including an application, may be obtained at www.ccamontgomery.org. A complete information packet may be obtained from the school office at 125 Calhoun Road.

INFORMATION MEETING & OPEN HOUSE • Learn about Classical education • Visit our classrooms and meet our teachers

• Presentation of Classical methodology • Receive complete information packet

Thursday, January 22, 7:00 p.m. MBC Chapel • 125 Calhoun Road

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WHAT IS CLASSICAL EDUCATION? Classical education is a model of education that draws deeply from the history and culture of Western civilization employing methodology based on the Trivium, a time tested threestage approach to learning. In short, classical education is not a new approach to learning but a return to a model of education that has the best track record in history. For centuries the classical model of education produced some of the greatest minds our world has ever known. In content, classical Christian education seeks to impart the knowledge necessary for a broad, integrated and critical awareness of the world and human society. In philosophy, a classical Christian school seeks to present Biblical truth to students and to develop within them the ability to view all of life from a Biblical perspective. The education that we provide at Cornerstone is a means to an end. Cornerstone’s ultimate goal is to equip students with the knowledge, skill and vision necessary to be effective leaders and servants for our Lord Jesus Christ in whatever vocation He may call. We seek to raise a generation of young people who love the Lord Jesus Christ with all their hearts and minds and who are able to articulate the Gospel and fundamentals of the Christian faith with clarity, fidelity and power.

For more information please call

334-356-7788

www.ccamontgomery.org Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy is located within Morningview Baptist Church at 125 Calhoun Road Montgomery, AL 36109 www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents


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advertorial

Montessori@Mulberry The River Region’s Preferred Montessori Preschool M@M’s New Expanded Campus

Montessori @ Mulberry has added a new building to its Mulberry Campus. The building is a charming house, newly renovated, next to the current location and includes a classroom, a Montessori Resource Center and an additional playground. We have also expanded our classroom to the outdoors with “The Children’s Garden.” Our students now participate in all the phases of gardening: from germination, planting, caring for and harvesting an organic crop. According to Jackie Maloy, Executive Director, “The response to our unique educational approach has been very positive and we are excited to offer more opportunities for parents who appreciate the Montessori Education we specialize in.” Elena Olson-Shimp and Milan Crittenden

M@M Location

Montessori@Mulberry is centrally located in Midtown Montgomery a few blocks from Jackson Hospital and Huntingdon College. Conveniently located just blocks from Interstate I-85.

The M@M Classroom

In the Montessori classroom, each child is encouraged to reach his or her full potential in all areas of life. The specific needs of individual children are met at each developmental level. The classroom contains many multisensory, sequential and self-correcting materials that facilitate learning. Concepts are presented concretely and students work with materials until Neah James they are ready to move to more abstract materials. Children are free to work at their own pace with materials they have chosen. All classrooms have multi-age groupings, which encourages a family-like atmosphere where learning can take place naturally. Our curriculum, which is challenging, interdisciplinary and real world related, provides a strong academic bridge to elementary school. Annalise Applegate

Why Choose Montessori @ Mulberry

Is it a coincidence that many of the mavericks on the leading edge of innovation and creativity in our culture are Montessori graduates? The founders of Google and Amazon.com along with T. Berry Brazelton, noted pediatrician, to Peter Drucker, the well known management guru, were all educated in the Montessori Classroom. As you research and think about how you want your child to begin his or her education, Montessori @ Mulberry should be at the top of your list. We offer certified Montessori teachers in each classroom and a quality environment designed for fostering the love of learning. As a parent, you want the “peace of mind” knowing your child will have the opportunity to learn and grow according to his or her ability. We invite you to call Jackie MaloySriram Madadi Watson at 265.7733 to schedule a tour and discover why Montessori @ Mulberry is the River Region’s preferred Montessori Preschool. Begin your child’s education for life with the skilled staff at Montessori @ Mulberry.

Offering Exceptional Educational Experiences for children 12 months through Kindergarten. Limited space available beginning January 5th, 2015

Call Jackie Maloy-Watson Today to Schedule Your Tour @ 334-265-7733 or Cell 334-462-0548 casadebambini@aol.com _ www.montessoriatmulberry.com _ 2034 Clubview St. in the Mulberry District Montgomery Parents I January 2015

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ELEMENTARY

MIDDLE SCHOOL & HIGH SCHOOL

RECENT HONORS

- Complete Pre-K3-K5 program with proven kindergarten curriculum and all-day or half-day options for Pre-K3/Pre-K4

- Advanced Placement, Honors, and Advanced classes within a challenging college preparatory curriculum

- National Merit Finalists & Semifinalists; AP Scholars (2012, 2013, 2014)

- Expanded learning through unique middle school exploratory classes

- Alabama’s Youth Governor (2015); Girls State Governor (2014); Youth Mayor of Montgomery (2013-2014)

- Ongoing exposure to enrichments, including technology, music, art, library, science lab, and Spanish - Integrated classroom use of iPods®, iPads®, and Macbooks®, and 1:1 iPads® in Fifth Grade - Guidance lessons emphasizing values and character, taught by professional counselors - Unique Outdoor Learning Lab (butterfly garden, pond, and bog), dedicated Elementary Science Lab, and Outdoor Art Lab

- 21st Century learning environment with 1:1 iPads® in middle school and 1:1 Macbooks® in high school

- Apple Distinguished School

- Daily advisory periods promoting social, emotional, and physical well-being

- State Class 1-4A Championship Wrestling Team (2013)

- Opportunities to participate in 43 competitive team sports, nationally recognized band, and award-winning arts classes

- Six Forensics State Tournament Champions (2014) - $6.8 million in merit-based college scholarships (Class of 2014)

- Up to 25 foreign languages available for study utilizing teacher-directed Rosetta Stone Classroom®

- Marching Trojans named Bands of America Class Champions in Super Regional competition (2012, 2013, 2014)

- Exposure to college fields of study through unique pre-college major high school electives including Robotics & Pre-Engineering, Pre-Law, Environmental Science, Art History, and more

SAINT JAMES SCHO OL

- Outstanding District Female Choral student (2011, 2012, 2013, 2014)

for pre k3-12th grade admissions

334.273.2992

Building a Legacy of Leaders Since 1955 s t j w e b . o r g English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

Recognized by Apple as a distinguished school for innovation, leadership, and educational excellence.

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Trinit Y Challenging Minds Changing Lives u

Open House: K4/K5 Open House - January 15, 2015 - 6:00 PM Middle School Open House - January 22, 2015 - 6:45 PM Founded: 1970. Enrollment: Approximately 875 students K4-12. Mission/Philosophy: Trinity is Montgomery’s foremost educational institution binding academic excellence with Christian perspective. Delivering a challenging college-preparatory education, Trinity provides a rigorous academic program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. For more than 40 years, Trinity has stayed true to its mission statement: “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.” Awards/Recognition: Trinity is proud to have had a National Merit semifinalist every year for the last five years (2010-2014). Trinity has also had several students named Commended Students by the National Merit Scholarship Program, including the 2014-15 school year. One-third of the 2014 graduating class received full-tuition scholarships to the college of their choice. One hundred percent of Trinity graduates are accepted to post-secondary institutions, with many attending some of the finest colleges in the nation including: Auburn, Alabama, Brown, Clemson, Furman, Georgetown, Georgia Tech, Oklahoma, Rhodes, Rice, Tulane, Vanderbilt, Virginia, and Wake Forest. Trinity’s EnviroBowl Team has won 8 state championships since 2001. A 2014 Trinity graduate won the 2014 Class 3A Region Bryant-Jordan Scholar-Athlete Award. Technology: Trinity was named an Apple Distinguished School for 2013-2015. This is the second time Trinity has achieved this status. Dedicated to a learning environment utilizing the tools and resources of the 21st century classroom, Trinity was the first school in the River Region to implement a grade-wide laptop initiative, providing students equal acMontgomery Parents I January 2015

cess to technology. Every student in Grades 6 to 12 is issued an Apple laptop for use during the school year. Macbooks, iPads, and iPod Touches are available for lower school students to use daily in the classroom. Advanced Placement:Trinity offers 9 Advanced Placement (AP) courses and 14 Honors courses in the upper school with more than 45 percent of students electing to take at least one AP class, and 90 percent selecting an Honors course. The College Board continually recognizes Trinity students for their achievements on AP Exams, and in 2014, 18 Trinity Students earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP exams. Arts: Students interested in visual and performing arts have a wide variety of classes to develop their talents. Trinity is the only independent school in the River Region to offer a full-time dance program. Lower school students attend choral music classes weekly and a variety of classes are offered to middle and upper school students ranging from middle school concert choir to show choir. The band program includes marching band, symphonic band, and color guard. Lower school students attend art weekly, and middle and upper school students can take a variety of studio art classes, including set design and AP art. Trinity’s annual spring musical includes more than 125 students in Grades 10 to 12 as members of the cast and technical crew. Athletic Programs & Achievements: Trinity seeks to nurture the whole child, including the physical aspects. Trinity fields competitive teams in basketball, soccer, tennis, track, cross country and golf for boys and girls, as well as football and baseball for boys, and softball and volleyball for girls. More than 84 percent of students in Grades 7 to 12 compete in at least one sport at Trinity. Both men’s and women’s teams have excelled in the middle school, junior varsity, and varsity levels capturing many CCC and area titles. Many athletes continue the Trinity tradition by playing at the next level in several sports including football, baseball, volleyball, cross country, and track. Community Service: Trinity’s school-wide mission project, “Change 4 Change,” was recognized as the River Regions Volunteer of the Year in the youth category in recognition of those dedicated to serving others and their positive impact on the community. Each Friday, students and faculty donate spare change to the Change 4 Change mission project, which is used to support local and international ministries. Tuition: Military discounts, tuition assistance, and early enrollment opportunities available.

TRINITY PRESBYTERIAN SCHOOL 1700 East Trinity Boulevard | Montgomery, AL 36106 334-213-2100 | www.trinitywildcats.com 74

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INDEPENDENT • Autauga Academy

497 Golson Rd., Prattville Phone: (334) 365.4343; Founded: 1969 Email: generals@autaugaacademy.com Website: www.autaugaacademy.com Principal: Gerald Carter Religious Affiliation: None Ages/grades: K3 through 12th Curriculum: College Prep Testing Requirements: Entrance/admission exam Registration Deadline: Now accepting applications Accreditation: AISA and SACS Sports: Football, basketball, track, cheerleading, baseball, soccer, softball & volleyball Clubs: Beta, Science, Math, Yearbook, SGA, FCA, computer and School Newspaper. Other: Academic scholarships available for grades 1-11. Tuition: Please call for rates. Extended Care Fees: Call for additional information.

• Edgewood Academy

P.O. Box 160, 5475 Elmore Rd, Elmore Phone: (334) 567.5102 Headmaster: Clint Welch Ages/Grades: K3-12 Website: www.edgewoodacademy.org Curriculum: Offers 2 diplomas - standard, dual enrollment; including advanced placement courses. Testing Requirement: Admissions test & evaluation of scholastic record Registration deadline: Applications accepted all year; testing begins January on a first-come, firstserve basis. Accreditation: AISA since 1974 and SACS CASI Sports: Football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, cheerleading, peewee cheerleading, dance team, track and Pee-Wee/Termite football. Clubs: National Honor Society, Spanish National Honor Society, SGA, FCA, Spanish, Youth in Government, Drama, Beta, Accounting Team, First Priority, and Math Team. Other: 1997 and 2001 Presidential Award for Academic Excellence by the AISA. Blue Ribbon School seven years in a row. At least 60% of faculty holds a masters degree. Blue Ribbon for nine years in a row- 2008 2A Football State and National Champions- Chairman’s Award for the past two years. Tuition: Please call for tuition rates.

• Green Gate School

3265 McGehee Rd., Montgomery Phone: (334) 281.3300; Fax: (334) 286.4884 Email: grngatesch@aol.com Director of Education: Yvonna Richardson Headmaster: Ken Richardson Age/Grades: Green Gate has the right learning environment for ages 12 Months in age to Grade 8. Staff: Our teachers respect each student and encourage moral and ethical behavior. Don’t lie, don’t cheat, don’t steal. We build our student’s self-esteem and encourage them to believe in themselves and not be afraid thereby eliminating any need to bully. The central goal is to help each child acquire the social-emotional competence and skills he, or she needs to succeed as a learner while developing good citizenship. Green Gate is proud to share the knowledge our average teacher has been on staff for at least eighteen years. We teach practical matters so often ignored by schools. Students become comfortable with a variety of life skills, including practical matters such as time management and test preparation. Mission: For many years Green Gate has been defining its goals and expectations, for all students. Using the knowledge gained we can design educational objectives for all students twelve months through grade eight. Mission Statement: Green Gate School is committed to providing a warm, loving, nurturing, secure and challenging environment for the development

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of its students’ intellect, character, social skills, physical health and appreciation for the arts. K-4 and Kindergarten Academics: Green Gate is where your child can play, explore, and create! Our philosophy that play is a child’s vehicle for learning. We view learning as a natural and ongoing process, occurring as we interact with our environment, and we view each child as an individual who develops and discovers in their own ways. We play with a purpose. Elementary academics: All children have diverse gifts and educational needs that should be met by knowledgeable, caring teachers. Reading, is virtually the basis of all learning, is the most important subject on which Green Gate focuses. Learning to write well is also emphasized, students who can write will have a competitive advantage. Finally, to navigate modern life students need a strong knowledge of numeracy. We help students learn to question not just learn answers. Middle School Academics: Pre-teens are in constant self-discovery building on their question “Who am I” enjoy writing and publishing their autobiography. Taking the autobiography one step further by doing an Ancestry project is the highlight of the year, students join Ancestry.com for a nine- week adventure into their past. With the knowledge, we live in the world with continuously disappearing borders. We teach a combination of history, geography, local, state, national and world issues and participate in a mock government. Accreditations: Green Gate is accredited through, ADVANCED ED formerly known as SACS / Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. After school: We offer an Afterschool program with a study hall. Extra-curricular activities are offered after school. Tuition: Green Gate provides an affordable, private school tuition with payment options. We also accept the Alabama Opportunity Scholarship Awards. Please call our office to discuss tuition and childcare rates.

• Hooper Academy

380 Fischer Rd., Hope Hull Phone: (334) 288.5980; Founded: 1970 Website: www.hooperacademy.org Headmaster: Greg Faulkner Religious Affiliation: Non –secular Ages/grades: K5 through 12th Curriculum: Advanced and standard diplomas, music and computer K5-6th Registration Deadline: Based on availability. Accreditation: AISA; SACS; AAIS Sports: Include football (grades 2-12), volleyball, boys and girls basketball, baseball, track, softball, weight training, dance, cheerleading, soccer and golf. Clubs: Beta Club, National Honor Society, Science Club, Math Team, SGA, Performing Arts, Yearbook/Journalism, FCA, and Spanish. Other: Extended care program available. Licensed Day Care program available on campus. Current annual tuition rates are: K-12, Call for rates.

• Lowndes Academy

P. O. Box 99, Lowndesboro, Al. 215 South Broad Street, Lowndesboro, AL Phone: (334) 278.3367; Fax: (334) 278.4476 Email: lowndesacademy@yahoo.com Website: www.lowndesacademy.org Headmaster: Darrell Self Religious Affiliation: None Ages/grades: K3-12th Curriculum: Elementary A Beka; college prep Testing Requirements: None Registration deadline: Open Accreditation: AISA; SACS Sports: Football (Pee-Wee, Jr. High & Varsity), Girls Volleyball, Baseball, Softball, Track, Basketball and Cheerleading Clubs: Beta Club, FCA, SGA, ACE, Drama, Key Club, Spanish and Mathematics

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Other: After school care, music, dance, gymnastics, piano, yearbook staff. Hosts the district Spelling Bee each year. Very active booster club hosts deer hunt, annual fundraiser. Tuition: Please visit website or call for more info.

• Macon-East Academy

15396 Vaughn Road Phone: (334) 277.6566; Founded: 1995 Website: www.maconeast.net Email: jwryosdick@maconeast.net Headmaster: Glynn Lott; Lower School Director: Cathy Maxey Religious Affiliation: None Ages/grades: K3 – 12 Curriculum: College Prep, Honors and AP Testing Requirements: Tests given to K4, K5 & 1st grade; standardized scores 2-12 Accreditation: SACS, National Council for Private School Accreditation, AISA and Southern Association of Independent Schools Sports: Basketball, football, baseball, soccer, golf, softball, deer hunt, volleyball, tennis and cheerleading Clubs: Student Government, Technology Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Students, National Honor Society, Drama and Yearbook. Other: Teacher-student ratio: Preschool: 12; K-6th: 18; grades 7-12: 24 Tuition: Please call for 2015-2016 rates. 1st – 12th grade Uniforms are required. • Montessori Academy 1025 South Hull Street Phone: (334) 262.8685; Founded: 1982 Email: Montgomery.montessori@gmail.com Website: www. Montessorimontgomery.com Director of Admissions: Rhonda Goff Barton Religious Affiliation: None Ages/grades: 12 months through 6 years /Montessori ageappropriate academic program Curriculum: Montessori including language, pre-reading, reading, math, science, history, art and music (AMS affiliated). Registration Deadline: Open as space permits. Testing Requirements: Personal interview Sports & Clubs: Ballet, Spanish, guitar, piano, and tumbling Other: Celebrating 31years of Quality Education for the Crucial Early Years; American Montessori Society certified teachers. Tuition: Please call for more information.

• Montessori School at Hampstead

5251 Hampstead High Street Unit#111 Phone: (334) 356.1969, Fax: (334) 356.2045 Founded: 2011 Email: info@mshmontgomery.org Website: www.mshmontgomery.org Montessori School at Hampstead is set in the beautiful, natural safe environs of Hampstead; we provide a handson tailor-made approach to education that nourishes a child’s curiosity inside and outside the classroom. As an alternative to a traditional school format, we are able to give your child the attention they need to learn at the level they excel. We offer programs not found at other schools such as a farm curriculum as well as the traditional fundamentals. Admissions: Mandy Griffin Religious Affiliation: Interdenominational Ages/grades: 18 months – 15 years Curriculum: Montessori Registration Deadline: Early registration deadline January 31st; Open registration starts February 1st, 2015; Open House will be January 10 & 11 from 3 - 5pm for 18 months - 15 years old Testing Requirements: Interviews required; Transcripts for students 6 and up; Psychological testing for students 6 and up. Sports & Clubs: P.E., ORFF Music, Big Green Bus, Dance,

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

321 Blast Off Science , Forensics, Bricks 4kids Other: Farms Class, French Class, Library, Yoga and Art Tuition: Yearly Tuition from $6900 - $7500

• Montessori @ Mulberry

2034 Clubview Street Phone: (334) 265.7733; Founded: 2010 Email: casadebambini@aol.com Website: http://montessoriatmulberry.com For Admissions info: Jackie Maloy-Watson Religious Affiliation: None Ages/grades: 12 months through Kindergarten Curriculum: 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. Registration Deadline: Open as space permits. Testing Requirements: Personal interview. Tuition: Please call for more information.

• The Montgomery Academy

Upper School, 3240 Vaughn Rd., Lower School, 1550 Perry Hill Rd. Phone: 272.8210 Website: www.montgomeryacademy.org Email: susannah_cleveland@ montgomeryacademy.org Headmaster: Mr. Dave Farace Director of Admissions: Susannah Cleveland, (334) 273.7152 Religious Affiliation: Non-sectarian Ages/grades: K - 12 Curriculum: College Preparatory; competitive admissions Testing Requirements: An admissions test is given to all applicants in grades K-12. Please see our website regarding specific information regarding testing (www.montgomeryacademy.org/ admissions). Applicants must submit a transcript and teacher recommendations. An interview is required for applicants in grades 5-12. Open House Dates: Kindergarten Open House is Thursday, January 22, 2015. Please call the Admissions Office to RSVP and for the time: 334-272-8210. Tours are recommended in order for prospective families to see the school “in action.” For more information about applying to the Academy, and to schedule an individual tour, please call the Admissions Office. Registration Deadline: Testing should take place by February 13, 2015 to be considered in the first round of decisions. After February 13, 2015 we will accept applications and consider applicants as space permits. Accreditation: Montgomery Academy is a member of the National Association of Independent Schools (NAIS) and is jointly accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and the Southern Association of Independent Schools. The Academy is a member of The College Board, Educational Records Bureau, School Scholarship Service, Southern Association for College Admission Counseling, the National Association for College Admission Counseling, Cum Laude Society, and the National, Southern, and Alabama Associations of Independent Schools, and the Council for Spiritual and Ethical Education. NAIS membership, in particular, is a hallmark of nationally competitive independent schools. Mission: Montgomery Academy develops leaders committed to honor, scholarship, service and the pursuit of excellence. Implicit in this is the existence of an environment in which students are simultaneously supported and challenged. The ultimate component of this mission is to assist students in becoming adults of strong moral character who contribute to society in both their professional and community lives. Montgomery Academy provides a friendly learning environment that is challenging, nurturing, well rounded and developmentally appropriate. This com-

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bination, and its results, which are seen in the success and accomplishments of our graduates, is what we call the “MA Difference.” The school employees highly qualified, award winning and experienced faculty and administration, most of whom have advanced degrees. Sports: Montgomery Academy’s athletic teams have earned 60 state championships, more than any other public and independent school in the River Region! Interscholastic sports are very popular at the Academy. Two-thirds of Middle and Upper School students sport their cardinal and navy colors through their participation in sports at the Academy. Because Montgomery Academy is a smaller school, we are able to offer students more opportunities to play their chosen sports and to develop their athletic skills to the fullest. There are 31 teams for boys and girls in grades 7-12 including, basketball, soccer, football, golf, tennis, baseball, softball, track, cross country, volleyball, swimming and cheerleading. Coaches are dedicated to bringing out the best in their players and to teaching the value of sportsmanship and teamwork. All students participate in physical education classes where they can explore a variety of sports and fitness activities. Montgomery Academy’s Athletic Department provides all necessary equipment such as bats, balls, helmets, and all required padding for foot-

ball. In addition, all team uniforms are provided with tennis being the only exception. Parents of students participating on MA sports teams may incur costs for team spirit packs. Spirit packs include items that enhance team spirit and unity, but are not required for participation. Clubs: There are several clubs for students to join in the Lower, Middle and Upper School. These include: Academy Ambassadors, Art Club, Bible Studies, Creative Writing Club, Drama Club, Dance Team, Environment Club, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Speech and Debate, Government Club, HEART-Community Service, Honor Council, Math Club, Peer Pals, Science Club, Student Council, Student Newspaper, World Language Clubs and Honor Societies, and the yearbook. The Montgomery Academy’s choral groups have earned regional, state, and national accolades, and our drama students have earned awards each year at the state competition. Our Speech and Debate team is ranked in the top 1% in the nation. Other: Montgomery Academy is an independent, nonsectarian, coed college-preparatory day school, enrolling students in grades K-12. The curriculum is designed to provide above average to superior students the preparation necessary for success, both in college and in later life. Through the Student Honor Council and the school’s Honor Code, the Academy strives to build personal integrity and character in every student. All Academy graduates attend a four-year college or university; many are selected to some of the most prestigious colleges and universities in the nation. Members of the graduating class of 2014 received over $3.5 million dollars in merit scholarship offers! (This figures does not include financial aid or need-based scholarships!) Over the past five years, Academy graduates have earned over $25 million dollars in merit based aid! Twenty-three Advanced Placement and Honors courses are offered. Forty-two

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students at the Academy earned AP Scholar Awards in recognition of their exceptional achievement on AP exams. The Academy has three National Merit Semifinalists in 2014 and three National Merit Commended Students. Forty-two MA 7th graders qualified for Duke TIP recognition The faculty at The Montgomery Academy has consistently demonstrated noteworthy expertise in individual academic fields and represents a diverse array of scholars from all regions of the United States and from several countries. Our faculty currently consists of graduates of many of the nation’s finest colleges and graduate programs, earning honors such as the American Association of Teachers of French National Excellence Award, Lower and Middle Art Educator of the Year winners, two Diamond Level Forensics Coaches, members of the Alabama High School Athletic Association Coach’s Hall of Fame, writing competition winners, published authors, recognized musicians, several Fulbright seminar participants and a Klingenstein Summer Institute Fellowship! Our teachers are constantly seeking to improve professionally and are the highlight of a student’s Academy experience. With limited class sizes and an exceptional faculty, the Academy builds a caring supportive community in which students are challenged to perform to the maximum of their ability and potential. Tuition: Generous financial aid is available to applicants in grades K-12. Each year a small number of rising high school students are chosen to receive Millsap Scholarships to attend Montgomery Academy. Based on a number of qualifications including academic success and financial need, the students selected will receive need-based scholarships from their freshman year to senior year. Students are selected in the spring for the following fall semester. The process includes an application, teacher recommendations, an interview and proof of academic achievement. Selection is based largely on the following criteria: An exceptional academic record, the skills, ability and desire to succeed, leadership potential, and a true financial need. Millsap Scholars will receive: Need-based financial aid, an iPad, admission to one ACT prep course hosted by MA, and will participate in the Philanthropy 101 leadership course. Please contact Susannah Cleveland, Director of Admissions for more information (272-8210). Tuition at the Academy covers a hot nutritious lunch for the year in grades K-12, the enrollment deposit, admission to all home athletic events, snacks in grades K-4, most extracurricular and athletic team fees, a yearbook and all technology fees. The Academy does not charge new family fees or building fees. A separate bill for books and supplies (which will vary from student to student and from year to year) and certain class trips is sent in the fall. Uniforms are required and are purchased by Lands’ End. The Board has not yet set tuition for the 2015-16 school year. Please see the website (montgomeryacademy.org) for the 2014-2015 tuition rates.

• Saint James School

6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Phone: (334) 277.8033 Founded: 1955 Email: admissions@stjweb.org Website: www.stjweb.org Ages/grades: Pre-K3 through 12th (including all-day and half-day Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 options) Head of School: Mrs. Melba Richardson High School Principal: Dr. Bryan Oliver Middle School Principal: Mr. J.B. Copeland Elementary Principal: Mr. Jim Terry Religious Affiliation: None Curriculum: College Preparatory Testing Requirements: Admissions testing required. Contact Admissions Office (334-273-2992) for information. Registration Deadline: Testing begins in January and is ongoing as space becomes available. Initial invitations for acceptance mailed early March. Later enrollment as openings occur. Accreditation: SACS, NAIS, SAIS, AAIS, SACAC, NACAC, and the College Board Sports: 43 Competitive sports teams, including basketball, football and baseball, tennis, equestrian, cross country, track, soccer, golf, wrestling, volleyball, softball, cheerleading, and indoor track.

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Accreditation: AISA & SACS Sports & Clubs: Cheerleading, Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, General club, Beta, FCA, SGA, Student Govt. and 4H Club. Tuition: Call for Rates.

• Zelia Stephens Early Childhood Center Alabama State University

Clubs: 31 clubs and organizations including ten honor societies, SGA, Speech and Debate Club, Write Club, Film Club, Drama Club, Chess Club, French Club, Latin Club, Spanish Club, Math Club, Science Olympiad, Girls’ Club, Interact Club, Key Club, Pep Club, Student Y Club, Tri-M, Green Club, Fellowship of Christian Students, Young Democrats, and Young Republicans. Other: Seniors in the Class of 2014 received $6.8 million in merit-based scholarships to colleges and universities across the nation. Challenging academics, competitive athletics, and nationally recognized arts classes combine to create Central Alabama’s most engaging independent school environment at Saint James School (STJ). Montgomery’s oldest independent private school, Saint James provides the most well-rounded course offerings in the area, blending superior academics and state-of-the-art technology, with absorbing enrichment, exploratory, and college elective classes. STJ partners with state universities to offer a wide-range of unique “pre-college major” electives, becoming Alabama’s only high school to do so. Designated an Apple Distinguished School, Saint James School envelops students in a 21st century learning environment, providing Macbooks® and iPads® for Grades 5-12, and integrated use of iPods®, iPads®, and Macbooks® in Pre-K through Grade 4 classes. Up to 25 languages are available for study utilizing teacher-directed Rosetta Stone Classroom®. The school’s talented and dedicated faculty is a vital component of the learning equation, creating a welcoming, yet challenging atmosphere to help students from Grades Pre-K3 through12 reach their highest potential. As STJ students make great strides academically, they also grow personally, learning to become young men and women of character who are self-motivated, intellectually curious, reflective, and articulate. The rigorous academic curriculum is balanced with outstanding offerings in the nationally recognized fine arts department and state championship athletic program. To make the transition to Saint James easier, all new students are paired with a specially selected student buddy. In addition, ESL tutoring is provided to foreign-born students, to assist with English comprehension, reading, and writing skills. Tuition: Pre-K3 (half day): $5,507; Pre-K3 (full day): $7,903; Pre-K4 (half day): $6,016; Pre-K4 (full day): $8,413; K5: $8,413; Grades 1-5: $9,519; Grades 6-8: $10,096; Grades 9-12: $10,525. Additional fees may be applied. Mandatory drug testing, grades 6 – 12. Uniforms Required.

• South Montgomery Academy

147 Old School House Rd., Grady, AL Phone: (334) 562.3235; Fax: (334) 562.9059 Email: somtgy@mon-cre.net Website: http://smcaraiders.org Founded: 1970 Headmaster: Tim Davenport Religious Affiliation: none Ages/grades: Daycare starting at K3 - 12 grade Curriculum: ABeka, Ala. high school courses of study Registration Deadline: none Testing Requirements: none

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

Phone: (334) 229.4470; Fax: (334) 229.4461 Email: Enewton@alasu.edu Website: www.alasu.edu Founded: 1971 Headmaster: Ed’juana Johnson-Newton Religious Affiliation: None Ages: 3 years to 2nd grade Curriculum: Houghton Miflon and Harcourt Registration: March 1st Testing Requirements: None Accreditation: SACS Tuition: Please call for tuition rates. Uniforms required.

UNIQUE LEARNING NEEDS • Churchill Academy

395 Ray Thorington Road, Montgomery Website: www.churchillacademymontgomery.com Phone: (334) 270.4225; Founded: 1996 Administrator: Lisa Hanlon Schroeder, M.Ed. Religious Affiliation: None Ages/grades: K -12th Curriculum: Individualized academic programs Registration: Begins January Testing Requirements: Previous diagnosis of learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder or other, and average to above average intellectual functioning. Accreditation: National Independent Private School Association and SACS Clubs: Scouts and academic tutoring Other: The only comprehensive school program in Montgomery specializing in educating bright children with unique learning differences. 12 to 1 student-teacher ratio. Certified educational specialists. Tuition: Please call for tuition prices. Scholarships available. Uniforms required.

ROMAN CATHOLIC • Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School

3850 Atlanta Highway, (K4-6) 8580 Vaughn Road (K4-6) 5350 Vaughn Rd. (7-12) Saint Bede Campus (K-6): (334) 272.3033 Holy Spirit Campus (K4-6): (334) 649.4404 Middle School Phone (7-8): (334) 272.2456 High School Phone (9-12) : (334) 272.7220 Website: www.montgomerycatholic.org Founded: 1873 Mission: 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 grow to become persons of faith, virtue and wisdom. President: Anne Ceasar Elementary Principal Holy Spirit Campus: Mathew Monson Assistant Middle School Principal: Julie Wood 7-12th Principal: Chad Barwick Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic, all classes attend weekly Mass

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Ages/grades: K4-12th Curriculum: College preparatory, Honors and A.P. courses available. Religion is a core class. Testing Requirements: Placement test (February, June and August.) Registration deadline: March of preceding year. Accreditation: Southern Assoc. of Colleges and School (SACS) Sports: Football, volleyball, soccer, cheerleading, golf, wrestling, cross country, Indoor track, outdoor track, basketball, baseball, softball, & tennis. Clubs: Concert Band, National Honor Society, Junior National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Key Club, Spanish Club, Government Club, Forensics Club, Science Olympiad, Math Club, Respect Life Club, Ambassadors Club, Pep Club, Drama, SGA, Yearbook, BEST Robotics, Shield Bearers Club, Girls Leadership, Boys Leadership, Ping Pong. Other: Montgomery Catholic is a K4-12 college preparatory school whose Catholic mission calls for an inclusive admission process, welcoming students of all faiths to apply to the program. Montgomery Catholic recognizes that God has given each student gifts and that it is the school’s responsibility to nurture them and help them reach their God-given potential. At Montgomery Catholic, the adult community is committed to the success of each student and the education of the whole child. On average 95 -100% of graduates attend college with a high percentage of graduates receiving scholarships to attend college. Community Service requirements are met through Theology classes. Class retreats offer time for students to bond with their peers through social, service and reconciliation activities. There is strong parental involvement throughout our program and we have a very active PTC. Tuition: Approximate K4-6: $5,040-6,382; 7-12: $5,8777,941 Multi-Child Discount Offered Uniforms required. Students in grades 9 -12 participate in lap top program.

• Resurrection Catholic School

2815 Forbes Dr., Montgomery Phone: (334) 265.4615; Founded: 1943 Website: www.rcs-rcmsouth.org Email: school@resurrection-missions.com Principal: Sister Gail Trippett, CSJ Religious Affiliation: Roman Catholic Ages/Grades: Preschool age Pre K- 8th Curriculum: Basic; strong traditional skills core curriculum with extensive enrichment & acceleration. Religion classes required; technology emphasized; enrichment in arts & conversational Spanish; strong accelerated reading program in place. After school care, hot breakfast and lunches, computer technology. Testing Requirement: Placement Pre K - 8 Registration deadline: Begin registration Feb. for returning students and for new students. Open House will January 25 at 2 p.m. Accreditation: Advanced Ed. Formerly known as SACS Sports: Soccer, cheerleading, tennis and basketball Clubs: Student Council, Boy Scouts, Girl Scouts, Alpha P.H.I.R.S.T., Women of Grace, Dance, Robotics, Science Club, Home Economics, Band and Choir. Tuition: Affordable; call for more information. Family discounts available. Uniforms Required.

PROTESTANT • Alabama Christian Academy 4700 Wares Ferry Rd., Montgomery Phone: (334) 277.1985; Founded: 1942 Website: www.alabamachristian.com Interim President: Dr. Milton Slawson High School Principal: Mr. Doug Prater Elementary Principal: Doug Black Superintendent: Dr. Shelly Bruce Religious Affiliation: Church of Christ Ages/grades: K4 through 12th Curriculum: College Prep Testing Requirements: Evaluation of scholastic record, standardized test scores and placement tests. Registration Deadline: Open

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Accreditation: SACS Sports: Football, Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Volleyball, Track, Soccer, Golf, Cheerleading, Swimming, Cross Country Clubs: Key Club, National Honor Society (Elementary, Middle School and High School), FCA, SGA, Math, Drama, Chorus, Band, Color Guard, Theatre, Scholars Bowl, Pep club, Spanish National Honor Society, FCS, Mu Alpha Theta, Bass Fishing club, Filmmakers Club. Tuition: Please call for prices. Tuition breaks for multiple children. Uniforms Required.

• Bethany Christian Academy

1765 Highland Ave., Montgomery Phone: (334) 264.2101; Fax: (334) 264.0513 Founded: 1899 Principle: Loraine Bussey Religious Affiliation: Seventh-day Adventist Ages/grades: Kindergarten to 8th grade Testing Requirements: Admission test Registration Deadline: Open registration Clubs: Music, Global Missions trips, Environmental Camp, Computer and Pathfinders Other: After school care. Tuition: Please call for rates Uniforms required

• Chapman Christian Academy

4711 Chapman Rd., Millbrook Phone: (334) 285.5354; Founded: 1994 Principal: Jon Chapman Website: www.chapmanchristianacademy.com Religious Affiliation: Christian Ages/grades: K4-12 Curriculum: A Beka, Bob Jones and Southwestern Publishing Company Accreditation: National Association of Private Schools Testing Requirements: Grade level testing performed upon entry. Sports: None; Clubs: Chess Tuition is competitively priced with other schools in the area. Please call for rates.

• Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy

125 Calhoun Rd., Montgomery, AL 36109 Phone: (334) 356.7788 Email: link on website Website: www.ccamontgomery.org Headmaster: Priscilla Stewart, Principal Ages/Grades: K5-12th Religious Affiliation: Ministry of Morningview Baptist Church Curriculum: Testing Requirement: Entrance Test required for all grades Registration begins February 2. We will be offering an Open House January 22, 2015. Accreditation: Meet criteria for accreditation with the Association of Classical Christian Schools Sports: none Clubs: Yearbook, Hand bell and Hand chime Choirs, Latin Registration deadline: Registration begins Feb. 2 Tuition: Please call for tuition rates. Tuition includes all costs with the exception of student uniforms and personal school supplies. Registration fee is an additional $250.00.

• East Memorial Christian Academy

1320 Old Ridge Road, Prattville Phone: (334) 358.4085; Founded: 2002 Website: www.emcawildcats.org Director: Bryan Easley Religious Affiliation: Christian/Southern Baptist; Ministry of East Memorial Baptist Church Ages/grades: K-4 through 12th Curriculum: ABEKA, Glencoe Math and Bob Jones Testing Requirements: Records reviewed and interview Registration Deadline: Open Accreditation: All faculties certified by State of Alabama, AISA, SACS/CASI, NCPSA, Southern Baptist Assoc. of Christian Schools Sports: Volleyball, basketball, football, cheerleading, track, baseball and softball. Elementary soccer and basketball. Other: Drama, Yearbook, Newspaper, Band, Art, Computer Technology, Speech, Creation class, Entrepreneurship, Chorus, Spanish, Rhythmic ribbon and Baton twirling.

Daycare on site, 6 wks. -4 yrs. Call 358.4110; Pre-care/ extended care. Tuition: Call for rates. Uniforms required.

• Eastwood Christian School

1701 E. Trinity Blvd., Montgomery Phone: 272.8195; Founded: 1996 Email: admin@eastwoodschool.org Website: www.eastwoodschool.org Headmaster: John Geiger Religious Affiliation: Presbyterian; Westminster Confession of Faith Ages/grades: K4 - 12th grades Curriculum: Lower school/ Sing, Spell, Read and Write; Harcourt Math; Spelling; Grammar; Bible, History, Science and Handwriting; Upper school/ Varied Classical Christian, Latin, Logic and Rhetoric Testing Requirements: Placement test/interview Registration: Begins January 26-February 6. Waiting list. Call for availability. Sports: Basketball, volleyball, baseball, cross country, soccer and tennis Clubs: Drama, Beta Club, SGA, French Club, Spanish Club Other: Offers classical approach to Christian education with a biblical world view dominating all subjects. Our shorter day (7:45 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.) for grades K4-6th offers more family time and individual activities. Tuition: Please call for tuition prices. Annual Registration fee of $250 Uniforms required.

• Emerald Mountain Christian School

4125 Rifle Range Rd., Wetumpka, 36093 Mailing address: P.O. Box 241405, Montgomery, 36124 Phone: (334) 567.0555 Website: www.emcspatriots.org Email www.emeraldmtnchrisitan@yahoo.com Administrators: David P. Ames, Headmaster Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational, but distinctively a

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school of Reformation doctrine, affirming the Westminister Confession of Faith and Americas Christian Heritage. Philosophy: Founded in 1965, in Alabama’s Black Belt Region, the original mission and vision continues today unchanged: to offer to Christian parents the education of the WHOLE CHILD; Spiritually, Intellectually, and Physically. Ages/Grades: Academic K4-12th grade Curriculum: The Education is based on a biblical world and life view taught through the principles of Scripture in all subjects. Children are taught the historic Catechisms as a way of understanding profound truths at an early age. A strong phonics and reading program and traditional mathematics in the primary grades prepare students to pursue a rigorous college preparatory education in the upper grades. A broad liberal arts education that includes the fine arts is emphasized and provided. The sciences conform to creation without apology. The highest expectations are held for students and faculty alike. The uniqueness of the ministry is recognized, not only in achievement levels, but in the Christian character manifested by the families enrolled. Registration Deadline: Open Accreditation: NPSAA Other: Visitors and inquiries are welcomed. Please call our registrar, Jeanne H. Riley, for an appointment. For admission, interviews and testing are required. Art class, Physical Education, Scouting, Clubs, Programs and story time/study time in the Library are also an integral part of our campus life. Sports: football, basketball, cross country, track & field, baseball and cheerleading. Location and Transportation: The campus is 10 minutes from East Montgomery. Shuttle services are available, as is after school care for working parents. The physical campus is expanding with the addition of the Coats Memorial High School Building that is under construction. Reasonable tuition rates with opportunities for work scholarship assistance. Family discounts apply. Uniforms are required with a dress code. Tuition: Call Jeanne Riley, registrar, for details. Uniforms required.

• Evangel Christian Academy

3975 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery Phone: (334) 272.3882; Founded: 1995 Website: www.ecalions.org Administrator: Rev. Scott Matthes Principle: Mrs. Ceil Sikes Religious Affiliation: Assemblies of God Ages/grades: K4 through 12 Curriculum: A BEKA, Bob Jones and McDougal Littell Testing Requirements: Testing is required Registration Deadline: Open in February to all Accreditation: AISA (Blue Ribbon School), SACS, ACTS Sports: Football, basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, track and cheerleading Clubs: SGA, Spanish Club, Running Club and National Honor Society Other: Drama, chorus, yearbook, Computer Club, ACT Prep, Spanish, journalism, art, and speech, Tuition: Please call for tuition information. Uniforms required.

• Frazer Memorial Christian Kindergarten

6000 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery Phone: (334) 279.0271; Founded: 1974 Website: www.frazerkindergarten.com Director: Jill Struthers Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational Registration deadline: Main registration for each fall is in January. Ages: 6 wks. To 2 yrs. Mothers Morning Out 3 yrs. - K4 & K5. Hours: 8:30 - 12:30 a.m. Early drop off available at 7:30 a.m. Extended Day available for all ages until 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Curriculum: Blended; A Beka Other: Music, field trips, chapel, physical education. Strong faculty with unwavering interest in your child. Tuition: Call for details.

• Holy Cross Episcopal School 4400 Bell Road, Montgomery AL 36116 Phone: (334) 395.8222; Founded: 1998

Website: www.holycrossmontgomery.org Principal: Melissa Coumanis Religious Affiliation: Episcopal Ages/grades: Pre-K through 6th Curriculum: College Preparatory Registration Deadline: Open Testing Requirements: Admission test after application Accreditation: SACS; Member of NAES, SAIS and AAIS Holy Cross offers a welcoming and loving faith based environment where students begin their day in the Chapel with songs, prayers and Bible stories. Academic strength and spiritual well-being are the basis of a Holy Cross education. Diversity of students in all areas is welcomed and encouraged. In addition to a strong academic program, students receive exceptional instruction in a variety of subjects aimed at identifying and developing their natural talents. Available athletics: AYSO soccer, Tae Kwon Do, Elementary Cross country team, CYO Basketball, Dance After School Activities: Art, piano, guitar and violin lessons. All students Pre-K through 6th attend Spanish, Music, Visual Arts, STEM Lab, Physical Education, Library, Theater Arts and Computer Technology - using Microsoft Office Applications. 6th grade students each have their own personal IPad for education enrichment. Formal Religious Instruction: Daily Chapel for all students. Tuition: Approximate - Call for rates or check our website. A 5% multiple child discounts is offered, 10% military discount and need based financial assistance is available. Extended Daycare: After care available 7 am - 5:30 pm. Uniforms required.

• Learning Place, The/ New Hope Academy

Prattville Campus: 698 Silver Hills Dr, Prattville, 36066 Phone: (334) 361.9505 Website: www.newhope4kids.com Email: thelearningplace@att.net Principal: Tina Halbert, M.Ed., NBCT Age/grades: K-12 Curriculum: We serve students with individual learning differences, including learning disabilities, autism/Asperger’s, ADD/ADHD, physical issues, etc… Our curriculum is individualized to each child’s learning needs. Examples of

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curricula used include TouchMath, Handwriting Without Tears, Reading Mastery, Excel Math, Explode the Code and Spectrum Writing. Testing Requirements: The director will test for academic levels upon acceptance to the school. Registration deadline: Enrollment is on a year-round basis Sports: None Tuition: Please see website for more information

• Lighthouse Christian Academy

3570 Bell Rd., Montgomery Phone: (334) 271.4200; Founded: 1987 Website: www.lcapirates.com Administrator: Gary V. Mohney Religious Affiliation: Baptist Ages/grade: K-2 through 8th Curricula: A BEKA Testing Requirements: Interview Registration: Begins in February Accreditation: 7th - 8th grade is accredited through ACEA Sports: Upward Basketball, Upward soccer, volleyball, cheerleading Clubs: Fine arts, Bible Quiz, Academic Competition and drama Other: Before and after school care; Christ oriented education. Summer fun program. Tuition: Please call school for more information Uniforms required for K5 – 8th.

• Montgomery Christian School

1728 South Hull St., Montgomery, AL 36104 Phone: (334) 386.1749; Fax: (334) 262-4469 Email: Montgomerychristianschool@gmail.com Website: www.montgomerychristianschool.com Mission: To provide an academically challenging Christian education to children in inner city Montgomery. Administrator: Mr. Danielson Religious Affiliation: None Ages/grades: Kindergarten K -5th Testing Requirements: None, Interview and assessment Registration deadline: Open Tuition: Based on family income and the number of children in the family Uniforms required.

• Mt. Meigs Accelerated Christian Academy 13060 E.B. Lucas Drive, Montgomery Website: www.mmaca.org Phone: (334) 273.1255 School Administrator: Genell H Townsend Religious Affiliation: Christian Mission: To foster a Christ-centered, quality academic education; coupled with biblical principles that empower students to develop into productive citizens who are lifelong learners, living their lives according to the principles taught by Jesus Christ. Ages/grades: Advanced curricula for 3 to 5 year old students focusing on the whole child. Other: Affordable all-inclusive education in a nurturing environment. We are not a daycare. . Tuition: Please call for rates. Uniforms required.

• New Life Christian Academy

Hwy 14, Millbrook Website: www.newlifechristianacademy.com Phone: (334) 285.5615. Founded: 1979 Principal: Gepetta Rogers Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational Ages/grades: K-3 through 12 Accreditation: National Private Schools Accreditation Group Curriculum: A BEKA, Bob Jones, Alpha Omega, and Saxon. Testing Requirements: Screening test to determine student readiness. Registration: open enrollment at the end of January Sports: Football, baseball, basketball, cheerleading, softball, volleyball, and pep squad Clubs: Jr. and Sr. Beta Club, Drama Club, and Fellowship of Christian Athletes Tuition: Call for more information.

• Prattville Christian Academy

322 Old Farm Lane North Phone: (334) 285.0077; Founded: 1997 Website: www.4pca.com

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President: Ron Mitchell Religious Affiliation: Christian Ages/grades: Pre K-3 through 12th grade Curriculum: The PCA course of study uses various curriculums including traditional classes in math, language arts, social studies, and science. We utilize recognized curriculum taught with a Christian perspective, which demonstrates quality and structural flexibility. In addition to core academics, PCA offers instruction in physical education and the liberal arts, such as music, art, drama, and foreign language. Bible class, as well as chapel, is part of each student’s day. Prattville Christian Academy does not offer a special education program. Testing Requirements: SAT and ACT Registration Deadline: None, applications accepted dailytours available Accreditation: SACS Sports: Wrestling, Cheerleading, Varsity Football, Junior High Football, Peewee Football, Termite Football, Cross Country, Volleyball, Basketball, Baseball, Tennis, Soccer, Golf, Track & Field, Softball, Indoor Track Clubs: National Junior Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta, Students Against Destructive Decisions (S.A.D.D.), International Thespian Society, Speech and Debate, Student Government, Key Club, National Honor Society, Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Yearbook, Drama, Visual Arts and Speech and Debate offered under Fine Arts. Other: Before and after school care, certified teachers, small classes, college preparatory academics, daily Bible, Chapel Tuition: see www.4pca.com for rates. Family discounts and financial aid available.

• The Rock Christian School

3401 Harrison Road, Montgomery Phone: (334) 260.8808; Founded: 1996 Website: www.therockofmontgomery.org Email: rockwarriors@att.net Principal: Felica Carswell Accreditation: National Private School Accreditation Alliance Religious Affiliation: Non-denominational Ages/grades: K-3 through 12th Curriculum: A Beka and Bob Jones Testing Requirements: Interview for admission. Registration deadline: Open Sports: Boys basketball and Girls volleyball

• Success Unlimited Academy

2328 Fairlane Dr., Montgomery (8th-12th grades) 4500 Vaughn Road, Montgomery (K3-7th grades) Phone: (334) 213.0803 Founded: 2000 Website: www.suacademy.com Principal/Owner: Susan Alred, M.Ed. Vice Principal: Lauren Morgan Religious Affiliation: Christian Ages/grades: K3-12 Curriculum: A Beka, Bob Jones, Houghton-Mifflin, and Glencoe Registration Deadline: Open Testing Requirements: Consultations and Evaluations provided at time of enrollment. Accreditation: SACS/ Advanced accredited; Small Business of the Year 2008; Teacher of the year 2007; 2013 First Place and Second Place Essay Winners, Art Exhibit Winners in Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Athletics: Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball, Baseball, Softball, Volleyball, Golf and Cheerleading Other: Praise Band, Choir, Guitar, Art, Drama, FCA, FCS, Builders Club, Chess Club, and Career Start. Extended Success Programs: School offers morning classes, evenings and through Distance Education. Tutoring is available Monday – Thursday at out Fairlane Drive Campus. Monday-Thursday Tuition: K= $3,900, 1st-5th= $6,200, 6th -12th= $6,500 Uniforms required

• Trinity Presbyterian School

“Challenging Minds. Changing Lives.” Address: 1700 East Trinity Blvd; Montgomery, AL 36106 Phone: (334) 213.2100

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

Founded: 1970 Website: www.trinitywildcats.com Email: admissions@trinitywildcats.com Religious Affiliation: Christian Grades: K4 through 12th Curriculum: Accelerated, College Prep Registration deadline: Open registration K4 and K5 Open House - January 15, 2015 Middle School Open House – January 22, 2015 Accreditation: SACS and SAIS Mission/Philosophy: Trinity is Montgomery’s foremost educational institution binding academic excellence with Christian perspective. Providing a challenging collegepreparatory education, Trinity provides a rigorous academic program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. For over 40 years, Trinity has stayed true to its mission statement: “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. Recognitions/ Awards: A full college-preparatory curriculum is offered to all Trinity students, including programs in technology, foreign language and visual performing arts. One hundred percent of Trinity graduates are accepted in post-secondary institutions, with many attending some of the finest colleges in the nation. Most major courses are offered to students on two levels of achievement: honors and advanced placement, with over 75% of the students electing to enroll in these courses. Trinity has graduated 25 National Merit Finalists, 30 Semifinalists, and 29 Commended Students. Over one-third of the 2014 graduating class received fulltuition scholarships to the college of their choice. Trinity is the only independent school in the River Region to offer a full time dance program. The theatre department produces a full-scale musical each spring with a cast of more than 100 Upper School students. Art students at Trinity continue to win major state and national awards in the arts and are often exhibited at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Trinity School’s Mission Project, Change 4 Change, was recognized as the River Region Volunteer of the Year in the youth category in recognition of those dedicated to serving others and their positive impact on the community. Technology: Trinity was named an Apple Distinguished School for 2013-15 for its implementation of 21st century learning methodologies in the classroom and throughout the school. Trinity has now achieved Apple Distinguished School status for the second time. Using the latest Apple technology, our teachers provide students with a foundation of skills critical for success in the 21st Century. Our students use this knowledge in ways that promote creative thinking, thoughtful exploration, and problem solving. Every student in grades 6-12 is issued a laptop for use during the year. With SmartBoards in every classroom, wireless internet, and now laptops for students, Trinity is your child’s connection to the future. Athletic Programs & Achievements: Trinity fields 36 athletic teams and has won 22 AHSAA state championships—most recently back-to-back 3A State Baseball Championships

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in 2012 and 2013. Over 84% of students in Grades 7-12 compete in at least one sport at Trinity. Trinity Wildcat football players have been named The Advertiser’s Player of the Year and have also been selected as the River Region Player of the Year by Montgomery Quarterback Club. Both men’s and women’s teams have excelled in the middle school, junior varsity and varsity levels, capturing many CCC and area titles. Many of the varsity teams participate in the regional and state playoffs for their respective sports. Staff: Honored to have dedicated Christians and degreed professionals, Trinity employs an outstanding staff of approximately 85 certified personnel. Tuition: Please check our website for tuition information: www.trinitywildcats.com Uniforms Required.

• Victory Baptist School

5481 Main Street, Millbrook and 3151 Highway 14 Phone: (334) 285.5082; Founded: 1971 Website: www.victorymillbrook.com Email: Please see link on website Principal: Dan Todd Religious Affiliation: Baptist Ages/grades: Infant Nursery through 12th Curriculum: A Beka; McGraw Hill; Christian based teaching Testing requirements: Interview for admission. Registration deadline: Enrollment for new students begins March 1st Accreditation: ACEA, AACS and NACSAA Sports: Football, boys & girls basketball, girls volleyball, girls fast pitch softball, boys baseball, track, crosscountry and cheerleading. Clubs: Yearbook, Choir, Drama, Government club, Public Speaking, photography, computer tech, Bible quizzing and spelling bee Other: After school care until 6 p.m., Pentium computer lab with Office Tuition: Please check website for updated tuition. Uniforms required.

HOME SCHOOLS

• Cornerstone Family Church School, (334) 361.1227, www.cornerstone-biblechurch.org • Dayspring Academy/High School, (256) 353.2592, www.dsacademy.org • Eastern Hills Academy, a home school ministry of Eastern Hills Baptist Church, (334) 272.0604 • Evangel Christian Academy, (334) 272.3882, www.ecalions.com, A ministry of Evangel Temple • Ezekiel Academy, (334) 315.0010, www.ezekielacademy.org • Holy Spirit Academy, (334) 294-7305, Monica Burke • Little Flock Ministries, (334) 288.7475, Tracy Glover • Outlook Academy, (334) 290.0919, www.outlookacademy.com, Ministry of Tri County Community Church in Millbrook

• The School at Sylvan Learning Center

(334) 262.0043 2640 Zelda Road, Montgomery, AL 36107 The Sylvan Learning Center in Montgomery is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) and offers Home School services for children in grades K through 12. Students receive 560 hours of instruction in Math, Science, History, and Reading/English. Home School instruction is offered Monday through Friday from 8:30 am to 12:30 pm. State required electives are completed outside of the Learning Center as an independent study. Requirements: Transcripts from previous school; withdrawal letter from previous school; proof of registration with Home School Organization. For more information please visit us at www.sylvanlearning.com. mp

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First Baptist Church January 25 - 28 6:30 pm :: Main Sanctuary 305 South Perry Street :: Montgomery, AL 334.834.6310 :: www.montgomeryfbc.org 83

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NextGen Martial Artists Keep Busy Fall Schedule

Man 2 Man Group Visits Belmont for Thanksgiving

The Man 2 Man program for young guys hosted a Thanksgiving Feast at the Belmont Assisted Living Home. The guys shared what they were thankful for with the residents there. Afterward, they enjoyed a delicious feast prepared by parents. If you would like to become a member, please call (334) 561-5091.

NextGen Martial Arts has been busy not only with regular training, but with participating in many other activities to broaden students’ knowledge base of martial arts. In September, many students competed in the Capital City Jam. The tournament was held at Saint James High School in Montgomery and featured competitors from numerous schools in Alabama and surrounding states. Competitors saw diverse types of martial arts and made new friends in the martial arts community. In October, NextGen welcomed international and world Bo staff champion Jackson Rudolph for instructional seminars and private lessons. Students trained on basic Bo staff techniques and then moved to advanced tricks and manipulations. Rudolph took time after the seminars to talk with the students about his life, training schedule, and philosophy of passing on knowledge to the next generation of martial artists. October ended with black belt testing. Carsyn Hawkins tested for Cho Dan Bo (1st degree) while Winston Jones and Benjamin Jones tested for E Dan (2nd Degree). November was a month for NextGen to give back to the community. Partnering with Hyper Bully Defense, NextGen offered a free, three-hour anti-bullying workshop. Approximately 40 children attended and learned how to identify bullies and practice techniques to protect themselves from being victimized. To learn more about our programs, visit www.nextgenmartialarts.com or call (334) 590-3759 to speak with Master Newsom.

N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2015 2011

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Armory Athletics Hosts Local Gymnastics Meet

Armory Athletics hosted the Blue Grey gymnastics meet on the weekend of November 21-23. Teams from all over Alabama and surrounding states competed at the Cramton Bowl Mutiplex. The Armory fielded 13 teams in this year’s meet and had great overall success. Five teams won their respective divisions, and 15 individual gymnasts finished first all around. In individual event competition Armory gymnasts achieved 87 first-place finishes. Men’s team winners are listed below. Women’s team winners will follow in the February edition. Level 4 men’s floor exercise winners are Tyler Herman (1st), Ade Simmons (3rd), Jeremy Flatt (1st), Christopher Park (2nd) and Kyle Roberts (3rd). Level 4 pommel winners are Herman (2nd), Joseph Higbe (1st), Park (2nd) and Roberts (2nd). Level 4 rings winners are Herman (2nd), Bryce Schweikhardt (3rd), Simmons (1st), Higbe (2nd) and Roberts (3rd). Level 4 vault winners are Herman (3rd), Simmons (1st), Flatt (2nd), Park (3rd) and Roberts (3rd). Level 4 Parallel bar winners are Simmons (3rd), Higbe (1st) and Roberts (2nd). Level 4 high bar winners are Park (1st) and Kyle (3rd). Higbe placed 1st all around, Roberts placed 2nd all around, and Simmons and Flatt both placed 3rd all around. Higbe was the Grand Champion for his session with a score of 58.7. Level 4 men’s team finished first. Level 5 men’s floor exercise winners are Daniel Moffett (2nd), Samuel Borth (3rd), Trey Bostic (1st) and Josiah Bush (2nd). Level 5 men’s pommel winners are Moffett (1st), Borth (1st), Bostic (3rd) and Grant Rollan (3rd). Level 5 rings winners are Moffett (2nd), Bostic (1st), Jarius Brown (2nd), Bush (3rd) and Rollan (1st). Level 5 vault winners are Moffett (2nd), Borth (2nd), Brown (1st) and Bush (2nd). Level 5 parallel bar winners are Moffett (2nd), Borth (3rd), Bostic (1st) and Rollan (2nd). Level 5 high bar winners are Moffett (2nd), Borth (3rd), Bostic (1st), Bush (2nd) and Rollan (3rd). Bostic placed 1st all around, Moffett placed 2nd all around and Borth and Bush placed 3rd all around. Level 5 men’s team finished first. Level 6 men’s floor exercise winner is Sean Moffett (3rd). Level 6 pommel winner is Patrick Cain (3rd). Level 6 rings winners are Cain (3rd) and Moffett (1st). Level 6 vault winner is Moffett (3rd). Level 6 parallel bars winner is Moffett (2nd). Level 6 high bars winner is Moffett (2nd). Moffett placed 3rd all around. Level 8 men’s floor exercise winners are Campbell Puckett (2nd), Logan Borth (2nd) and Garrett McDaniel (1st). Level 8 pommel winners are Puckett (1st), Borth (2nd) and McDaniel (1st). Level 8 rings winners are Puckett (2nd), Borth (1st) and McDaniel (2nd). Level 8 vault winners are Puckett (3rd), Borth (2nd) and McDaniel (1st). Level 8 parallel bars winners are Puckett (2nd), Borth (1st) and McDaniel (2nd). Level 8 high bar winners are Puckett (2nd), Borth (1st) and McDaniel (2nd). McDaniel placed 1st all around, and Puckett and Borth placed 2nd all around. McDaniel was the Grand Champion for his session with a score of 69.5. Level 8 men’s team finished first. Level 9 men’s floor exercise winners are Micah Puckett (2nd), Ethan Reed (1st) and Erik Tsekouras (1st). Level 9 men’s pommel winners are Puckett (1st), Reed (2nd) and Tsekouras (1st). Level 9 men’s rings winners are Puckett (2nd), Reed (1st) and Tsekouras (1st). Level 9 men’s vault winners are Puckett (2nd), Reed (1st) and Tsekouras (1st). Level 9 men’s parallel bars winners are Puckett (1st), Reed (2nd) and Tsekouras (1st). Level 9 floor high bar winners are Puckett (1st), Reed (2nd) and Tsekouras (1st). Puckett and Tsekouras placed 1st all around, and Reed placed 2nd all around. Puckett was the Grand Champion for his session with a score of 68.2. Level 9 men’s team finished first. Level 10 men’s floor exercise winners are Samuel Norwood (2nd) and Robert Sheppard (1st). Level 10 men’s pommel winners are Jim Ellis (1st), Norwood (2nd) and Sheppard (1st). Level 10 men’s rings winners are Norwood (2nd) and Sheppard (1st). Level 10 men’s vault winners are Norwood (2nd) and Sheppard (1st). Level 10 men’s parallel bar winners are Norwood (2nd) and Sheppard (1st). Level 10 men’s high bar winners are Norwood (2nd) and Sheppard (1st). Sheppard placed 1st all around and was the Grand Champion for his session with a score of 74.8. Norwood placed 2nd all around. Level 10 men’s team finished first.

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A Page in a Book

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The Gift of Grandparents The unique relationships between children and their grandparents add an extragenerational dimension that kids benefit from in uncountable ways. Drawing on their extra decades of life experience, grandparents share stories, activities and journeys that richly expand their grandchildren’s knowledge and understanding of the world. They share the gift of history, tradition and life lessons that come with the authority of their years. The following titles celebrate the warmth, wisdom and wonder that is revealed when kids and grandparents enjoy their own special together time!

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A Walk in Paris

by Salvatore Rubbino (Candlewick) A young girl’s walk through Paris with her grandpa reveals the City of Lights in a whole new way as he shares the backstories and hidden history behind the city’s famous sites. As they pass each landmark her Grandpa shares local history and traditions that have evolved over time. Their walk through the pages also features small historical trivia sidebars to accompany her Grandpa’s narration. Illustrating the living history that our elders add to our landscape, ‘A Walk in Paris’ is a colorful journey shared between a grandparent and grandchild that brings history to life for both.

Tea Cakes for Tosh

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by Kelly Starling Lyons and E. B. Lewis (G.P Putnam’s Sons/Penguin) When Grandma Honey prepares her special tea cakes for her grandson Tosh, she also shares stories of how the sweet treat played a role in the lives of their enslaved ancestors long ago. Her tea cake tales carry Tosh to another place in time, sharing a history stretching back before his own memories. But over time, Grandma Honey starts to forget things. She can’t remember where she parked her car. Her sister’s once familiar phone number is forgotten. But when it’s time for tea cakes, Tosh uses her own shared stories to bring Grandma Honey’s memories back to life with a sweetness that will charm young readers again and again.

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I Wanna Go Home

by Karen Kaufman Orloff, Illustrated by David Catrow (G.P. Putnam’s Sons / Penguin) When his parents take a trip to Bora Bora, Alex and his siblings are sent off to spend a week with their grandparents at their retirement community. Visions of the dull time ahead loom large for Alex who immediately begins to lament the anticipated boredom through a series of letters to his parents. What develops in epistolary fashion is the discovery that Alex’s grandparents are full of surprises and fun adventures. His letters evolve from pleas for rescue to missives of adventure that have him begging to stay an extra week with his (definitely not boring) grandparents. Katrow’s illustrations benefit from hilarious visual perspectives that emphasize each new level of awesome the grandparents reveal. “I Wanna Go Home” is a laugh-out-loud primer for kids anticipating a long visit with the ‘grands’!

Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

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Wetumpka Cub Scouts Help with Flag Ceremony

Wetumpka Cub Scout Pack 429 participated in a flag retirement ceremony with Boy Scout Troop 50 at the Veterans of Foreign Wars Outpost #4572 on November 11. Fourth-grade Webelos 1 scouts took an active role in the ceremony, helping Boy Scouts fold the flags and then gently place them onto the fire for proper disposal. Following the event, many Scouts and their families adjourned to the Wetumpka City Cemetery to attend the Veteran Recognition Ceremony held there.

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David Woods Named 63rd YMCA Man of the Year

The YMCA of Montgomery named David Woods its 2014 YMCA Man of the Year. Woods, an active member of the YMCA of Greater Montgomery’s Metro Board, has spent many years as a youth sports coach and active leader of Y youth activities. He and his wife, Donna, are members of Saint James United Methodist Church and have been on several church mission trips. He says it his calling to help widows and orphans in third world countries, and is quoted as saying, “It changes your heart when you spend time around an 8-year-old without parents, siblings, or relatives and nowhere to go but the streets.” For 63 years, teens of the Montgomery student YMCAs have shown their appreciation to the men and women dedicated to serving youth in the community by planning and executing the YMCA’s Man of the Year annual program held the first Monday of December at Trinity Presbyterian Church. At the banquet, students pay tribute to the nominees, one of whom is selected as Man of the Year. This year’s program, co-chaired by Emily Stone of Trinity Presbyterian School and Jay Spivey of Saint James High School, featured 21 nominees and guest speaker Kay McGaughey, YMCA of Greater Montgomery’s 2013 Man of the Year. For more info about the YMCA of Greater Montgomery’s student YMCA program, contact Sam Adams at sadams@ymcamontgomery.org.

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Prattville Student Wins National Modeling Contest

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Laura Grace Henry of Prattville was recently crowned the Young Miss division winner at the 2015 Miss Model America pageant. She competed two phases of competition: runway model fashion and formal gown, in the 12-14 year division. Henry was also awarded most beautiful eyes and most beautiful hair. During competition, contestants are judged on facial beauty, poise, confidence, wardrobe presentation, modeling skills and overall appearance. Henry, a sixth-grade honor student at Prattville Christian Academy, received a beautiful crown, embroidered sash, luggage and other prizes, as well as the opportunity to advance her modeling career at various events throughout the year. She is the daughter of DiDi and Bryan Henry of Prattville; and granddaughter of Jeanne Jones, also of Prattville, and Margaret Henry of Columbus, Miss. Miss Model America is committed to the development and education of individuals who desire to be a part of the Fashion Experience. Their goal is to encourage beauty inside and out by providing information on the modeling business, providing avenues to modeling exposure, and promoting community service work with select charities.

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Family Karate Center Shares Toys with Children for Christmas

When The Family Karate Center hosted an angel tree this year, all the names were chosen right away, and the youth and teen classes very kindly gave of themselves for other children. The Tiny Tigers, ages 2-4, chose age appropriate toys for children their age, and the Little Dragons, ages 5-7 chose toys for children their own gender. It appeared that Legos were the most popular toy chosen for boys, and lip gloss and coloring books with crayons were the girls’ favorites. The teen team distributed food and fruit to many who’s parents had lost their jobs, or had been out of work for some time. Chief Instructor Master Carole Smith spoke proudly of each of her students: “I am always so amazed at my students when it comes to the compassion they have in their hearts for others. Many people think that all we do in a karate school is kick and break boards, but we collect food, toys, coats, clothes, items for those who have lost all in house fires, and so much more. These kids have helped paint houses, cut and trim yards, helped bring groceries to shut ins, and they have even baked cookies on their weekends to share with shut ins. To say that I am a proud instructor would be an understatement!” The Family Karate Center is happy so many called the center for help this Christmas! If you are interested in learning more about free classes and how you can join in the fun at Family Karate Center each month, call 220-9319 today! All calls receive two free classes and a free uniform with enrollment!

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Create a daily plan

When you are depressed, getting through the day can be a challenge, so create a balanced plan. Mary Ellen Copeland is the author of a practical and thorough guide to coping with depression symptoms called, The Depression Workbook: A Guide for Living with Depression and Manic Depression. Copeland provides great tools for creating what she calls a “Wellness Recovery Action Plan.” One piece of the plan is to make a schedule for your day that includes things you have to do and things that you would normally enjoy doing. Copeland recommends pushing yourself gently to do the things you have enjoyed doing in the past even though you have no desire to do them now.

Ask for help

Depression makes it easy to criticize yourself for needing support. However, when you accept or reach out for support, you are taking a step to reduce the impact of depression on yourself and your loved ones. Even though it feels uncomfortable, push through your discomfort with asking for or accepting help. It will allow you to get back to being the kind of parent you want to be.

Limited support network?

There are other options for getting support for yourself if you do not have a reliable network to call upon. You can get support online. There are a number of online depression support groups. Check out: DailyStrength.org or OnlineTherapyUser.org.

Simplify your life

Pare down your responsibilities. Depression can be very draining, so you do not want to be pulled in too many directions. You will want to call upon your support network to share the housework and childcare. Whether you have a reliable support network or not, decide what you can comfortably handle and let the rest go.

Reassure your kids

If your children are old enough, explain to them that you are not feeling well, but that you hope to feel better soon. Children tend to blame themselves when things are in crisis at home. You will want to reassure them that you are getting help and that how you feel is not their fault. You

may also want to call upon friends or family to spend quality time with your children. This way the onus is not on you to meet all of your children’s needs, while you are recovering from a depressive episode.

To medicate or not to medicate?

In 2013, Dr. Wayne Katon and Dr. Paul Ciechanowski, reviewed the available literature on depression in adults. They found that the most effective way to reduce depressive symptoms was to use a combination of medication and 91

psychotherapy. However, they also found that there were still benefits to be found if either medication or psychotherapy were used separately. Their recommendation was to try both first and then adjust your treatment plan as needed. If you and your doctor decide that medication is right for you, be patient with the process. Don’t give up on using an anti-depressant if it is not immediately helpful. Remember that using medication is a trial-and-error process. Problem solve with your doctor to address any side effects or concerns that arise while you are trying to find the right medication and dose. www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents


Make a decision about talk therapy

A silent auction of pre-loved art and other treasures from the finest homes in Montgomery Kenneth Hayes Miller (American, 1876–1952), Leaving the Shop (aka Woman with Packages), 1934, etching on paper, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Association Purchase, 1982.6.1

Thursday, March 5, 2015 7 P.M. until 10 P.M. $50 per person Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres

For more information or to make a reservation, call the Museum at 334.240.4333 or visit MMFA.org

Finding a reputable therapist and then finding the time to go to therapy can be a tall order. If you are able to overcome these two challenges, you will discover that the benefits of psychotherapy are long lasting. Katon and Ciechanowski found that relapse into depression happened less for people who engaged in therapy. Specifically, they found that cognitive behavior therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy were the most effective forms of psychotherapies for depression. Alternatively, they found that when people only took an anti-depressant and then stopped taking it, their symptoms tended to come back. These findings were specific to people with mild to moderate depression.

Depression makes it easy to criticize yourself for needing support. However, when you accept or reach out for support, you are taking a step to reduce the impact of depression on yourself and your loved ones. Even though it feels uncomfortable, push through your discomfort with asking for or accepting help. If your doctor diagnosed you with mild to moderate depression, ask around for referrals to reputable therapists. You can also access counseling through your employer. Find out if your company offers an Employee Assistance Program. This will give you free and confidential access to a therapist. Some therapists will offer counseling by phone or online. These options are great for reducing travel time, but you should still find a way to keep your children occupied or cared for by someone else, so you can reap the long term benefits of therapy. Taking these important steps will not be a quick fix, but they can make a difference in how you feel. Trust that you will not always feel like this. As you get the support you need to recover, you will move back to being yourself and the kind of parent you want to be. mp Karyn Robinson-Renaud is a freelance writer.

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United Gymstars & Cheer Gymnasts Compete in Mobile

United Gymstars and Cheer’s Level 1, 2 and 3 Compulsory girls finished off their 2014 competitive seasons at the Alabama Compulsory State Meet. The meet was held December 5-7 in Mobile. In addition to several individual event state champions, many gymnasts were also All-Around Champions. The Level 1 state champions on the uneven bars were Abigail Cribbs (9.375), Carson Jay Clark (9.225) and Addison Cline (9.125). On the beam, state champions were Te’Kyrah Tillman (9.600), Olivia Robinson (9.500) and Cline (9.250). Vault champions included Grace Kelly (9.325), Lauren Babcock (9.200) and Sadie Kent (9.225). State Champion on the floor was Robinson (9.700). All-Around state champions included Kelly (36.900), Robinson (37.125) and Cline (36.575). The Level 1 team came out on top by placing first with a team score of 113.100. On the Level 2 team, individual event state champion on the beam was Lacey Whitlow (9.475). Vault champions included Kaylin Corley (9.400), Jordan Ray (9.700) and Whitlow (9.450). Champions on the floor were Tomia Tillman (9.550), Shanna Moss (9.550), Whitlow (9.500) and Danjela Jordan De Jesus (9.400). Whitlow was the Level 2 All-Around State Champion (37.250). The Level 2s placed fifth in the team award (112.200). Level 3 individual event state champions were Julianna Hunter on the vault (9.600) and floor (9.750); and Logann Dean on the beam (9.275). Hunter was also the All-Around State Champion (37.075). The Level 3s placed second at the state meet with a team score of 111.100.

Pink N’ Pearls ended this year of festivities on ice. Young ladies enjoyed ice skating and their Christmas Party at the Ice Palace in Eastdale Mall. For information on how to become a member, please call (334) 561-5091.

Capital City Streaks U18 Girls Named State Soccer Champions

The YMCA of Greater Montgomery Capital City Streaks Under 18 Girls won the Alabama Soccer Association Division 1 State Cup hosted at the Emory Folmar YMCA Soccer Complex. The girls defeated last year’s state champions (Vestavia) 3 to 1 in the finals after beating BUSA 1 to 0 in the semi-finals. The girls earned a spot in the U.S. Youth Soccer Southern Regional Championships that will be held in Little Rock, Ark., in June. This is the first D1 championship in many years for Montgomery and the Capital City Streaks. The state championship is the icing on the cake to a perfect season. With a 21 to 0 record, the girls won the ASL state league, Atlanta Cup and Champion’s Cup in route to the state cup. “I am so proud of these young ladies for all the great accomplishments they have achieved on and off the field,” said Coach Manny Sanchez. “The girls bought into the system we wanted to play and they executed to perfection the entire season. They worked hard to achieve the goal we set at the start of the season---State Cup Champions.”

Mann Dancers Participate In KAR Dance Convention Students from Mann Dance Studios enjoyed participating in the KAR Dance convention held in Birmingham October 26. The students took classes from Falicie and Turk, Jen Toby, Kevin Herman, Julie Tomaino, Tawyna Kuzia and Tiffany Schleceter. Teacher Stephanie Jones Anderson is shown with scholarship winners Mackenzie Cherry and Grayson Gazell.

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To share news about your group’s special events, e-mail editor@ montgomeryparents.com by the 12th of each month.

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Pink n’ Pearls Celebrate With Ice Skating Party

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Calendar/Support Groups Ongoing

Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. Hands-On Gallery includes Grandma’s Attic where you can try on clothes, uniforms, shoes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Also visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities you can do at home. In addition, there are FREE, guided tours of the Museum of Alabama EVERY Saturday at 1 p.m. This is a general overview of Alabama history in our museum galleries led by one of our staff or experienced docents. Stay tuned for upcoming events from the Archives, and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook. Call 242-4435 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each Club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092. Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information. Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333. “Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333. Bama Brushstrokes Art Club Meets 9 a.m., 2nd Saturdays of each month, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Club members include beginners, intermediate and advanced skill levels. Activities include seminars with well-known artists. Classes are taught by our members or guest artists. We share our talents with our community in various programs, such as the Memory Box Project for hospice patients through sponsorship by the Society of Decorative Painters. Our chapter creates finished paint projects and murals for various hospitals, libraries, and community-based organizations. For more info, contact Diana French, president, at garnet2@ bellsouth.net. Celtic Dance Classes Fridays at Montgomery Ballet from 4-5 p.m. We welcome boys and girls ages 6 to adult. Call Amanda at (706) 457-9254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail.com for more info. The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning

tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta. com. The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa A private, non-profit, community-based organization located at 2213 University Blvd. in downtown Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed most holidays. Special programs are held for preschoolers weekly. Admission is $5 per person, with no charge for museum members or children under the age of 1 year. Special discounts are available to schools. For info, call (205) 349-4235 or visit www. chomonline.org. Civil Rights Memorial

January 2015 240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www. oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org). W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799. Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a family-friendly space filled with interactive and educational hands-on exhibits for children age eight and under. Imagine It! also offers birthday parties, memberships and field trip tours. Museum hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $11 plus tax for

Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at MontgomeryParents.com!

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286. Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday. Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School! Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry. Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops and Parties for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hourlong workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 356-5292 or parties@ cupcakesbytish.com. First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the war and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse. org. Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-

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adults and children ages 2 and above. Imagine It! is located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more info, visit www.imagineit-cma.org or call (404) 659-KIDS [5437]. Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history. Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. -noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org. Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum. Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500. Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area. We will also have interest groups that meet during the month at various times and locations. They could be groups such as canasta, bridge, lunches, movies, etc. General meetings are second Tuesdays September-May at 10 a.m. at the YMCA on McQueen Smith Road. For more information, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-5026 or nschrull@theschrullgroup.com River Region Contra Dancing Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and families are welcome. All levels of experience – including no experience. Dancing is on 1st & 3rd Fridays at 7 p.m. at Ridgecrest Baptist Church, 5260 Vaughn

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Road. For more info, visit www.riverregioncontradance. com or call Katherine Thomas at 334-361-6572. Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. -3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/ Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10 Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Enjoy the outdoors together, while experiencing a variety of attractions, entertainment and recreation. Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads and enjoy live entertainment, skilled craft demonstrations, shopping, dining and more. Additional attractions include: the 4-D Theater, The Great Barn, Paddlewheel Riverboat, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, Pedal Boats, Mini-Golf, New Camp Highland Outpost and Treehouse Challenge, Discovering Stone Mountain Museum and the Antique Car & Treasure Museum. The Regular One-Day All Attractions Pass is $24 (plus tax) for ages 12 and up, and $19 (plus tax) children ages 3-11. For an additional fee, guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Call (770) 498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com. Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills. Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Journey Church located at 2050 Commerce Street, just off I-65, exit 179. For more info, contact the interim president, Gene Ann Hildreth, at 361-6333 or alabamasoupgirl@aol.com. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next class is January 14 from 10:30-11 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

Classes

Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, cesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and baby care basics are also included. A maternity area tour is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp An abbreviated version of Childbirth Preparation Class offered in a one-day format. A maternity area tour is also

included as a part of this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more information or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. Content includes: Traffic Light Eating, Brainy Breakfasts, the Truth about Fats, Powering up with Protein and Play, and more! The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities, and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more information, contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or via Facebook www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org. Infant Safety/CPR Class Teaches parents and grandparents American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children, including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR instructors. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Maternity Area Tour Maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class/Boot Camp. Baptist Medical Center East. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Math & Science for Preschoolers Classes for “3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science)” are held every Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children ages 3-5 will learn math and science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. long and $8/week. Join us at 1585 E Main St, Prattville (next to Pri-Med), to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook for times. To register or for more info, contact Susan Trombley at 321blasttimes@ outlook.com or (334) 380-1879. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Fun, interactive 3-week series of nutrition classes developed by well-known pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; Optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; Transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more information contact Alissabeth Taylor at alissabethtaylor@ gmail.com or via Facebook - www.Facebook.com/ LeaninCentralAL. Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Provides expectant mothers information about

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breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBCLC instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule your class. Sibling Preparation Class Fun one-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org to schedule. Slow Flow Yoga Lunchtime Yoga Classes at Old Alabama Town. Take a break from your computer desk and relieve your body of all that stress with some slow flow yoga! Instructor Juliet Thomas provides downtown workers with a convenient way to stretch and reenergize before going back into the office. Classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:30-12:15, and 12:30-1:15. Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to 310 N. Hull Street (Lucas Tavern) and we will direct you to a place to change and set up your mat. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days) Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. Pay by cash or check. Make checks payable to Juliet Thomas. Blocks will be provided. Avoid a big meal before class. Please arrive 5-10 minutes early. Wear comfortable clothing, something to easily move around in. Mats and props are provided if needed, although students may prefer their own mat after a few yoga sessions. Bring water to hydrate on your walk back to the office! No sugary drinks or other food allowed. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@ icloud.com

Services

American Cancer Society seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Road to Recovery volunteers can be individual drivers with time to help others or even local companies who allow employees to provide transportation on company time in company cars. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Luella Giles at 612-8162 or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977. Hospice Volunteers Through volunteering at Baptist Hospice, the opportunities to help are endless. Our volunteers are an important part of the patient’s care and are the heart of the hospice family. There are many other ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add so much to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital is looking for volunteers for the information desk. These volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the

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Calendar/Support Groups lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. If you are interested in volunteering, call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/patients_volunteers. html and fill out the application. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more information, call 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. Jackson Hospital Offers Animal Therapy Program to Pediatric Unit Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894.

Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more information, call Hannah Taylor at 4099477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@childrensaid.org Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and gettogethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

Cancer Support

American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore, Autauga, & Macon Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society’s Montgomery office at 6128162 or call 1-800-ACS-2345 and you will be connected to the Montgomery office.** Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call Luella Giles at 612-8162 for more info. Man to Man is an American Cancer Society support group for men who are battling or have survived prostate cancer. It offers them education, discussion and support. Please call for next meeting dates at the American Cancer Society Office in Montgomery. OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. College scholarships to cancer survivors Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment)

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through www.cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345 General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 272-8622 or e-mail womenofhope@ charter.net.

Divorce Support

DivorceCare will begin meeting at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. You will experience the GriefShare group as an oasis in the midst of a difficult season of your life. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays starting August 22 at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. DivorceCare for Kids (DC4K), Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. This group is for children ages 5 and up and helps children of all ages heal from the pain of their parents’ separation and divorce. PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. Call (334) 495-6368. Divorce Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info.

Financial Support

Financial Peace University will begin meeting at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. It is a biblical, practical and workable plan for your money. Through video teaching, group discussion and interactive small group activities, you will learn God’s way to handle finances. This phenomenal plan will show you how to get rid of debt, manage your money, spend and save wisely and much more. Financial Peace University will be led by Bill Fiken. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.

Gambling Support

Gamblers Anonymous meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 7 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 U.S. Hwy. 231 (Directly across from the Winn-Dixie shopping center), Wetumpka. Call (334) 567-7534. Sundays @ 5 p.m., Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Mondays @ 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays of each month at the church’s build-

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January 2015 ing, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail Lynda Coats at farauthor@aol.com for more information. “Big Leap!” Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. This group provides a hands-on, safe space for age-appropriate expression of grief. These sessions aim to increase feeling identification, decrease self-blame or guilt, and build coping skills. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. This group is open to children ages 7-11. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 279-6677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 2796677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. We have an annual special event on Tuesday, Dec. 4. We will hold a Candlelight Ceremony in memory of our children at 7 p.m. at Eastmont Baptist Church. Registration is encouraged and may be made by calling (334) 2842721. We will also collect Toys for Tots for anyone interested in participating. “Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. We even have a fishing trip on the agenda! This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. It’s time to have fun again, come join us! For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 272-8622 for more info. GriefShare will begin meeting weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. You will find a warm, caring environment for your journey through grief and loss. You will not be left alone to deal with all the grief issues in your life. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. GriefShare, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. HOM provides quality palliative care to meet the physical, emotional, and spiritual needs of those in our community affected by terminal illness; maintains the highest ethical standards; and educates the community about the hospice concept and end-of-life issues. For more information or to register, please contact Candace Fales at 279-6677 or cfales@hospiceofmontgomery.org. Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups

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that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. These groups offer faith-based healing through sharing and emotional support. Meetings offer an outlet for sharing your child’s memory and your day to day struggles, while receiving support of others who have been in similar situations. Please feel free to bring photos of your child to share. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen. org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. Our purpose is to glorify God as we serve Him in comforting and encouraging each other in our grief and growth.

Homeschool Support

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

Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Day Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, Thursdays, in Room 3101, from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. There is no charge, but registration is required. For more information, call the Congregational Care office at 272-8622. Each participant needs to bring a sack lunch. On the first Thursday of each month, the Caregivers’ Support Group meets in Room 3103 from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. (This group will NOT meet in January due to New Year’s Day.) For the support group, call the church at 272-8622. Cardiolife, a FREE educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. Support for this program provided by River Region Supportive Care – a Division of Hospice of Montgomery. Facilitated by Arla Chandler, RN, BSN, MBA. Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on a weekly basis. It will begin meeting at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday night, January 14, from 6-8 pm. This Christ-centered recovery will provide a safe place to share and to heal. You will also experience hope and strength for each day. “Celebrate Recovery” will be led by Jeff McFarland. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12-step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information. Depression/Bipolar Support Alliance, Room 3101 at Frazer UMC, 1st Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. This group is for those with depression and bipolar illness and their families. For more info, call 2728622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com. (This group will NOT meet at Frazer in January due to New Year’s Day.)

Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway. For more info, call 652-1431. Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 2019638 or 652-1431 for more info. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. GIG-Montgomery assists with awareness of diverse potential symptoms, which can range from fatigue and headaches to nausea and intestinal problems. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (faces entrance of EastChaseNE. Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for details. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. This group is just getting started so a specific meeting time has not been set yet. Location will be 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info. Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 324-9568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more information, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org. Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/ OIF Veterans. For more information, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.

Parent Support

D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. is the vision of local resident and Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce staff member Ron Simmons and his daughter Erin. It gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. All fathers in the River Region are invited to bring their daughters to the library to read, laugh and have fun. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more information, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596.

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La Leche League of Montgomery, East Imaging Center on Winton Blount Blvd., Montgomery, 3rd Fridays, 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, children and grandmothers also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please contact Bridgit (569-1500), Amy (356-3547), or Heather (LLL_ heather@yahoo.com). Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of preschoolers at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@ frazerumc.org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit http:// montgomerymultiplesclub.org. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. Moms, need a little break? MOPS is a place you can share a good meal, make new friends, and find encouragement as you face the everyday challenges of raising your little ones. We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Meetings are 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 a.m., September through May. Visit www.montgomeryfbc. org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? Then have we got the place for you! MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail VFCMOPS@gmail.com.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information.

Single Parents Support

Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@ aol.com. Join us on Facebook—SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids) for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget.

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents


Calendar/Support Groups TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.

Special Needs Support

Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call Hope Smith at 328-8766 or visit www. montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Licensed audiologists make brief presentations explaining their local programs, their offices and the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net. River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo.com. Special Needs Skate 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more information, contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.

Teens/Families Support

Life is Fun Together (LIFT): A FREE Relationship and Marriage Enrichment Program providing different educational and fun-filled seminars to individuals and families. The LIFT Program is provided through Family Guidance Center of Alabama in partnership with the Alabama Community Healthy Marriage Initiative. Call Tonya Rogers at 270-4100 for class start dates or more info! “Relationship Smarts Plus” teaches teens in grades 7-12 about healthy relationships in a fun, interactive way. Six-week sessions are available throughout the year on Mondays from 4–6 p.m. “Smart Steps for Stepfamilies” is a six-week session that helps stepfamilies learn strategies to strengthen and stabilize their families. Parents and children ages 8 and up meet in their own groups, then meet up at the end of each session for a fun family activity! “Together We Can” gives non-married parents the skills they need to maintain healthy relationships between themselves and their children. “How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette)” teaches single adults how to get the most out of dating. “Mastering the Magic of Love” is a communication class for all couples. Bring your spouse, fiancé, or that special someone in your life with you to learn new communication techniques and enhance your skills as a team of two. All adults are welcome, including graduates looking for a refresher! Also…. LIFT has a brand-new program just for parents of teens!!! “Bridging the Great Divide: Parents and Teens Communicating About Healthy Relationships” is perfect for parents or guardians who want open lines of communication with their teen. Topics include “Principles of Dating & Healthy Relationships,” “Sensitive Topics,” “Rules & Boundaries,” and more!!! Building

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

D of Family Guidance Center, 2358 Fairlane Drive. This workshop lasts only three weeks, so call TODAY to reserve your spot! You can look at a calendar of LIFT classes & events online by visiting our LIFT web page: http://www. familyguidancecenter.org/ Remember, LIFT has FREE programs for singles, couples, stepfamilies, parents, teens, and now parents of teens! Call 270-4100 or e-mail trogers@familyguidancecenter.org if you didn’t see your class listed so we can contact you when the next one starts. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

This Month

Saturday, January 3

AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. Today’s project is “Learn How to Build a Mini Sled.” In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free.

Sunday, January 4

Special Needs Skate -- Also January 18 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. Looneys Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd.All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5. For more information contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.

Monday, January 5

Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Monday, excluding federal holidays. Children, ages 3 through 2nd grade, will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 mins. Join us at Kazoo Toys in Montgomery at 10:15 a.m. or 1585 E. Main St. in Prattville (next to Pri-Med) at 12:05 p.m., to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call 334-380-1879 to register or request more info.

Tuesday, January 6

Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Tuesday at Kazoo Toys. Children, ages 3-2nd grade, will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 minutes. Join us at Kazoo Toys in Montgomery at 4:45 pm, to have fun and get a boost in math & science. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request more info.

Wednesday, January 7

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch And Learn Series Open To The Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. The Capital City Master Gardener Association provides a monthly educational series called “Lunch and Learn,” on a variety of gardening topics in a classroom setting. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants

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January 2015 are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided. Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Wednesday at Prattville Wesleyan Preschool. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request additional information.

Thursday, January 8

Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held every Thursday at Montessori at Hampstead. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request additional information. Traditional Rug Hooking at the Pike Road Town Hall 6:30-8:30 p.m. A one-time demonstration will be provided by Pike Road resident Sue Burns Pemberton. Traditional rug hooking is a craft where rugs are made by pulling loops of wool yarn or fabric through a stiff woven base such as burlap, linen, or rug warp. The loops are pulled through the backing material by using a crochet hook mounted in a handle (usually wood) for leverage. This skill is also applied to pillows, stair treads, chair pads and coasters. Guests will be able to practice on a rug Sue is creating! This demonstration is not a class; it is a chance to learn about a rug making technique that has been used since the 17th Century in the United States. For more info, visit www.pikeroad.us/ or call (334) 272-9883.

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Friday, January 9

Science Classes 3-2-1 Blast T.I.M.E.S. (Technology, Innovation, Math, Engineering, & Science) classes are held one Friday a month at Glynwood Childcare Ministries in Prattville. Students will learn science concepts through everyday play. Classes are 30 min. Please visit 321 Blast TIMES on Facebook, e-mail 321blasttimes@outlook.com, or call (334) 380-1879 to register or request more info. Parents’ Night Out at the Wetumpka Family YMCA A monthly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of kids 12 years and under offered the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Games, arts and crafts, a movie and hot dogs are offered. Cost is $10 per child for members and $15 per child for non-members. You must register by the Thursday prior. Call 567-8282 for more info. Monster Jam at BirminghamJefferson Civic Center Also January 10 Shows at 7:30 p.m. both nights and 2 p.m. Jan. 10. Tickets begin at $12. For more info, visit www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets -- Also Meets January 23 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. ECHO has field trips, park days, holiday parties, enrichment activities, and a yearly awards ceremony. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.

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Saturday, January 10

Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www. facebook.com/events/1374454692792666/?source=1. Breastfeeding Class Breastfeeding and lactation education designed for expectant mothers, fathers, and/or support persons. Class includes benefits, basic breastfeeding techniques, and prevention of common problems. 10 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. $15 covers mother and support person. Pre-registration required. Call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/events to register or for more info. Saturday Jam Sessions at Old Alabama Town Also January 24 Pick and grin at Saturday Jam Sessions in the Rose House at Old Alabama Town. Bring your acoustic instruments and have fun. 9 a.m.-noon. For more information, call 334-240-4500 or visit www. oldalabamatown.com.

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Friday Night Live 7-10 p.m. Doster Community Center, Prattville. For 5th and 6th grade students of Autauga County. Every child must be on the school roster in order to attend. We encourage all interested parents to chaperone. Children will not be allowed to leave until their parent or guardian arrives to pick them up. This is for your child’s safety. Cost is $5 per student.

Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at noon and ending at 1 p.m. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. This month’s topic is Holiday Deocrating with Natural Materials. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more information, call the ACES office at 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.

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Friday, January 16

Girl Scout Cookie Booth Sales Begin -- Through March 8 This Girl Scout Cookie season, hungry shoppers will be able to purchase cookies in a way they never could before––digitally! Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama is participating in Digital Cookie, a revolutionary, new national digital platform that lets girls take cookie orders from customers online, through a unique transaction application, designed specifically for Girl Scouts. The 2015 lineup includes favorites, such as Shortbreads, Thin Mints, Caramel deLites, Peanut Butter Patties, Peanut Butter Sandwiches, Lemonades, Thanks-A-Lots, and a new and exciting gluten-free addition, Trios. Trios are made of peanut butter, chocolate chip, and oatmeal cookie goodness! Beginning January 17, troops will set up in front of local businesses and shopping centers across the area. A cookie locator app can be downloaded for the iPhone and Android devices to find a cookie booth. For more info or to locate a Girl Scout troop, visit www.girlscoutssa.org or call toll free 1-800-239-6636. Cruising the Creekwalk The 8th Annual Cruising the Creekwalk 5K Run/1 Mile Fun Run/Walk, sponsored by Leadership Autauga County, will be held in downtown Prattville. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. at Doster Memorial Community Center. All proceeds from the event will go to support youth leadership programs in Autauga County. The 5K Run begins at 9 a.m. and the 1 Mile Fun Run/Walk starts at 10 a.m. Both events will begin and end at Doster Center and will take you along Autauga Creek and through historic downtown Prattville. Water stations will be located at the halfway and finish points. Pre-registration deadline (by mail) is January 2. To register online, go to www.active.com. Entry fees are $22 per person, pre-registration runners; $25 per person, race-day registration; $72, family rate pre-registration; and “Sleep-In for the Youth” registration fee is $18. Long-sleeve t-shirts will be provided to all preregistered runners. The first 100 race-day registrars will receive a short-sleeve shirt. After the races, stick around for awards, music and refreshments, located inside Doster Center. For more info, contact James Sanders, (334) 657-1397, cruisingthecreekwalk@gmail.com.

VEG OUT Montgomery 6-8 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm at Hampstead community. Look for a big red barn! For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail info@eatsouth. org or visit www.facebook.com/VegOutMontgomery. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Always...Patsy Cline-Through February 8 This award-winning musical is a heartwarming and funny footstomp through the music and memories of “country music’s greatest female singer” as told by the Texas housewife she befriended two years before her untimely death. Visit www.asf. net or call 271-5353 for tickets.

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Square Dance Club will provide holiday entertainment. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, December 15, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com.

ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “Jonathan Daniels: Episcopal Martyr of Lowndes County,” presented by Marianne Weber. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Capri Classics Presents Alfred Hitchcock’s Notorioius 7:30 p.m. Notorious is a 1946 American spy thriller film directed and produced by Alfred Hitchcock, starring Cary Grant, Ingrid Bergman and Claude Rains as three people whose lives become intimately entangled during an espionage operation. For more info, visit www. capritheatre.org. The Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of the Greater Montgomery Area invites women who are new residents in the area to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club. The Montgomery

Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Alabama World Travel Hosts Holland America Line’s “On Stage Alaska” Team Arrowhead Country Club. The live event provides a glimpse into the state’s history, spectacular scenery, wildlife and local hospitality for travelers interested in planning an Alaskan vacation. The presentation also showcases destinations in the Yukon Territory that are available on some Holland America Line Land+Sea Journeys. The program, produced by Holland America Line, includes its Alaska Land+Sea Journey destination film and features an entertaining and informative presentation by people who have lived and worked in Alaska. The line’s popular Land+Sea Journeys combine a Holland America Line cruise with pre- or postcruise overland explorations ranging from 1-13 days. Reservations are required for this event and seating is

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limited. For more info and a complimentary ticket, call (334) 279-8720 no later than January 10.

Wednesday, January 21

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus at Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Through January 25 Various performance times and ticket prices. For more info, visit www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400.

Thursday, January 22

An Expressive Evening at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-7:30 p.m. The Muses, a council of teens passionate about the arts, presents the third annual “Expressive Evening.” Showcasing music, dance, visual arts, and dramatic and literary readings throughout the Museum, the performance event will engage the collection as a source of inspiration. Student artwork will also be on view in the exhibition “Life Reflections.” The Muses represent Baldwin, BTW, Catholic, the homeschool community, Jefferson Davis, LAMP, Montgomery Academy, Park Crossing, Saint James, and Trinity. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4365.

Saturday, January 24

Cupcakes by Tish Offers Cupcake Decorating Workshops for Kids and Teens Every fourth Saturday, Cupcakes by Tish will now host Cupcake Decorating Workshops. Classes will be offered for children ages 4-6, 7-10 and 12-15 between noon and 6 p.m. at The Shoppes at EastChase location. The hour-long workshop is $25 per child and gives each child the opportunity to learn the art of cupcake decorating. Each child will receive a Cupcakes by Tish apron and four decorated cupcakes with a variety of candies, sprinkles, and goodies that adds personalization. Older kids and teens will be shown the basics of fondant decorating. To register, contact Special Events Coordinator Ebony Ware at (334) 3565292 or parties@cupcakesbytish.com. Gigantic Flea Market in Prattville 6 a.m.-noon in Doster Center. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Alice in Wonderland -- Through February 15 Fall down the rabbit hole with Alice as she encounters beloved characters both zany and strange – from the White Rabbit to the Mad Hatter and dreaded Queen of Hearts. This whimsical classic is an enchanting story for all ages. Visit www.asf. net or call 271-5353 for tickets.

Sunday, January 25

Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2-4 p.m. Bring the entire family to this FREE fun event, and enjoy a little jazz, and wonderful artwork in the galleries! Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4365.

Thursday, January 29

Merle Haggard at the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre 7:30 p.m. Haggard has blended elements of jazz, rock, blues and folk music into his arrangements, while staying true to the traditions of country. No matter what the current fashion of the moment is in music, Haggard always goes his own way. Ticket prices begin at $35. They may be purchased through www.mpaconline.org or through the box office at (334) 481-5100. ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Sign up now for the 2015-2016 sessions

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Calendar/Support Groups of ARTtalk, a special program designed for artists and those interested in art. Each session, artists are invited to bring a recent work of art to share with the group for friendly feedback and critique by fellow artists. Enjoy light refreshments and networking with other professionals in this unique program. Cost: $20 (for all six sessions) for Museum or Art Guild members; $35 for non-members. To register, call 240-4365 or e-mail edsecy@mmfa.org. The New York Woodwind Quintet Join the Montgomery Chamber Music Organization for a special concert featuring the New York Woodwind Quintet. The concert will take place at the Wilson Auditorium of the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts (MMFA) and there will be a reception following. Single tickets at the door for just one concert are $30 for adults and $10 for students, if available. Or ticket packages may be purchased for the entire Montgomery Chamber Concert Series - $100 per adult for the (4 concerts) or $40 per student concert series. To purchase tickets, call 277-3505 or visit www.montgomerychambermusic.org/concerts.html. Wetumpka Depot Presents I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change -- Through February 14 7:30 performances Thursdays through Saturdays except for a 2 p.m. matinee Sunday, February 8. A musical comedy with lyrics by Joe DiPietro and music by Jimmy Roberts, this is the second-longest running Off Broadway musical. It is locally directed by Kristy Meanor, with Marilyn Swears as music director. For more info and tickets, visit www.wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Saturday, January 31

Prattville Mardi Gras Parade The fun starts at 11 a.m. with children’s activities, music, arts and crafts, and great food. At 2 p.m. the parade will roll through Downtown Prattville. There will be beads and candy, floats, antique cars, horses and more. Bring out the family and laissez les bons temps rouler! For a parade application or more info, call (334) 595-0854. Personal Development Workshop for Women Tasha Scott, a local entrepreneur, speaker and personal

Montgomery Parents I January 2015

development coach, will host the first of a three-part series of personal development workshops for women, titled “Don’t Limit Me: Commitment to a Healthier You,” from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Small Business Resource Center, 600 South Court Street in Montgomery. Special guest Casie Scott, Owner of NShape Fitness, will speak in addition to Coach Scott. Local health and wellness vendors will be also present. Registration is $67. Visit www.tashamscott.com/ speaker/workshop for registration info.

Sunday, February 1

First United Methodist Hosts 4th Annual Religious Arts Festival -- Through February 8 Free event for the whole family, including art exhibits, a Readers Theatre, performance by the jazz group Presbybob and a free animated movie called Secret Kells at the Capri Theatre.

Friday, February 6

Jerry Seinfeld Live at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre 7:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $47. For more info, visit www.foxtheatre.org or call (855) 285-8499.

Saturday, February 7

7th Annual Valentine of the River Region Pageant St. Joseph’s Church Community Hall, located at 511 Hwy. 31 North., in Prattville. This pageant series is for girls who live in Alabama, age 12 months to 18 years, with seven age categories: Baby Miss (12 months to 23 mos.) Tiny Miss (24-35 mos.), Petite Miss (3-5 yrs.), Little Miss (6-9 yrs.), Pre-Teen Miss (10-13 yrs.), Jr. Teen (13-15 yrs.) and Teen Miss (15-18 yrs.). The pageant will begin at 2:30 p.m. Every contestant wins a participation crown. The deadline for applications is Friday, January 31. Applications may be found at www. SterlingMiss.org, in Prattville at the Bridal Boutique & Tux Shoppe, in Clanton at Brenda’s Formals and in

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January 2015 Wetumpka at A Touch of Class. Mini Optional categories include: Most Photogenic, Most Beautiful Dress, Most Beautiful Smile, Most Beautiful Hair, Most Beautiful Eyes and Best Personality. A People’s Choice crown will also be awarded in each age category. Collect votes from family and friends at $1 per vote for the contestant. Votes will be collected at and throughout the pageant. No double crown winners. The money collected benefits Children’s Miracle Network. Check in opens at 1:30 p.m. for all age categories. The entry fee for the event is $35. Optional categories are from $5 to $15 per category. Checks should be made payable to: Sterling Miss Pageants, P.O. Box 763, Montgomery, AL 36102. For more info, applications and the Frequently Asked Question fact sheet, visit www.SterlingMiss.org or call 313-5444. Also like the Sterling Miss Christmas Pageant page on Facebook to get all the latest information. Millbrook Revelers Host Annual Mardi Gras Parade & Festival Village Green Park in Millbrook beginning at 9 a.m with the parade starting at NOON sharp. More than 60 vendors from all over the South will offer lots of different food and fun for everyone. Anyone can enter the parade: just visit www.millbrookrevelers.org for entry information.

Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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Number ONE Reason To Advertise...WOMEN! 101

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Home Based Business Directory Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.

Provides lactation education and consulting, antepartum and postpartum doula services. For more information please contact Tangela Boyd at 334-531-0145. Email: Tangela@mommymilkandmeinc.com Website: www.mommymilkandmeinc.com

One Simple Change Bridging the Gap in Nutrition

MATH TUTORING

Chemistry Tutor

24 years teaching experience

Current Chemistry Teacher Experienced chemistry tutor

Clarence Hann, IV

Email channiv30@gmail.com or call 334-546-4860.

Call Lisa Tyler (334) 647-1125 lisactyler@yahoo.com

Saxon Lawn Service

Quality, whole food products backed by clinical research.

You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing

Alissabeth Taylor ataylor1.juiceplus.com

Please call 274-0324.

Half off on first session if you mention this ad.

Piano Teacher

Nationally certified-Children and adults welcome. 1829 Hillhedge Drive. Please call Miss Bickerstaff at 262-3341.

Williams Carpentry Porches, remodeling, sheet rock, painting, hardwood floors. Call Robert Williams at (home) 361-7307 or (cell) 699-3864.

TUTORING 28 years teaching experience Tutoring grades 1st-8th Call Alice Gwin at (334) 300-8350. Email dalice.gwin@gmail.com.

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BLL Computer Services

Complete computer repair. Free diagnoses. Fast friendly service. Flat rate. No hourly fees. Free pickup and delivery. Call: 334-450-9760.

Private Security Guard Work or Sit with Elderly Will do private security guard work for private parties at reasonable fee. Call 334-566-7124. Will sit with elderly, and do have experience. Call 334-670-6906.

“Absolute Clean” Cleaning Service

Reliable, dependable, and trustworthy are the three things most needed when trusting someone in your home. We have all three of them, so just call Trenella @ 334-391-7596 for your free estimate and the absolute best cleaning job you could ask for with no worries, just a clean house. Call today!

BRICKS 4 KIDZ™

Need It Clean? Give Us a Ring!

Light and Deep Cleaning Jobs Free Quotes, Window Cleaning, Light Painting Jobs. Call Teri at 365.2727 or 320-8966.

We provide after-school enrichment, in-school workshops, birthday parties and so much more. The best part is that we are mobile. We are very excited to partner with other local businesses as we bring the concepts of S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) to the children of Montgomery. For information, visit www.bricks4kidz.com/alabama-montgomery or call Stephanie at 904-357-0122.

Squeaky Clean

The Piano Man

Busy as a Bee

No job too big or small. Clean/disinfect kitchen and bathrooms, vacuum, dust and floors. Over 13 years experience. Affordable pricing. 334.451.0052

Piano tunings, repair, and restoration. Active member of the Piano Technicians Guild. Contact us today to arrange a time to give your piano much needed attention. Call 569-9662 or visit www.pianoman.net/al

Southern Quality Lawns, LLC

Cassie’s English Tutor, Proofreader, Typist and Writer

“Quality Service from the Ground Up” Serving the tri county area. Call or email us for a free estimate. Bobby, 334-657-7750. robertsqlawns@gmail.com

Cassie Rogers (662) 380-6000 cassiesenglish@yahoo.com

Essential Oil Classes & Business Building

Learn how essential oils can support your family’s health or how you can build a business by sharing your passion with friends, family, or medical practice. Contact Alissabeth Taylor at 334-478-0166 or email AlissabethTaylor@gmail.com.

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Co Certified K-6 Teacher Reading and Math Tutoring Contact 334-456-3728 or email brittanygraves13@ hotmail.com

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Brother to Brother Entertainment, Inc.

Get a DJ and a Photographer in one package for your next event. We specialize in birthdays, weddings, luncheons, family reunions, and holiday parties. Contact Matthew Ezell @ 334-202-6869 or Alexander Strum @ 334-235-3518

The FREE AD GUY knows that every business needs a few lucky breaks before it can become successful. That’s why he is offering more FREE ads to Home Based Businesses. In return, the FREE AD GUY would appreciate it if you would tell a friend about Montgomery Parents Magazine. If you’ll just help him spread the word about Montgomery Parents Magazine he’ll keep working for you and your business. If you have already run a FREE ad you can send a request to repeat the ad or make changes. Please understand but we will not accept any phone requests. For new Home Based Business advertisers, just send your information to: FREE AD GUY, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123, or freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com. The FREE AD GUY reserves the right to refuse any ad in case it’s not appropriate for our readers.

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AdvertiserDirectory We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource as the editorial content in Montgomery Parents. We hope this directory saves you time as you refer to the magazine throughout the month. Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name.

First UMC, Montgomery, 26

Montgomery Women’s Health, Inside Back

First UMC, Prattville, 60

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 101

Fleming’s Martial Arts, 21

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 19, 23

Adventure Sports II, 53

Frazer UMC, 4, 53

New Park, 13

Alabama Christian Academy, 29

Greengate School, 43, 67

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 27

Alabama Dept. of Health, Inside Front

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 25, 68

Prattville Wesleyan Preschool, 101

Alabama School of Math & Science, 2

Hooper Academy, 42

Professional Pediatrics, 12

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 91

It Works, 88

Providence Early Childcare/Preschool, 36

All Med, 59

Jenny Alexander, MD, 101

Pump It Up Party, 60

ASKIN/Synergy House, 102

Johnson Martial Arts/Karate, 41

R.O.C.K. Campaign, 55

AUM Continuing Education, 44

Joy to Life, 7

Riverview Camp for Girls, 38

Baptist Health, 57

Kids Carousel, 47

Saint James School, 1, 73

Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 89

Kindermusik of Montgomery, 79

Smiles Galore Parties, 14

Bradford Health Services, 87

Kingry Orthodontics, 79

Spacewalker, The, 42

Chapman Orthodontics, 23

Kreative Moments, 102

Spotless Cleaning Services, 85

Children’s Clothing Exchange, 28

Kumon, 9

Stone’s Antique & Flea Mall, 52

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 48

Learning Tree Child Care, 84

Success Unlimited Academy, 37

Churchill Academy, 45, 64

Legacy Early Learning Center, 49

Sugar N Spice Daycare, 77

Cornerstone Classical Christian Aca., 65

Little Explorer’s Learning Center, 34

Sylvan Learning Center, 34

Dancewear, Etc., 101

Lori Mercer Photography, 77

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 21

Dentistry for Children, 54

Macon East Academy, 17, 69

The Big Green Bus, 39

Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 3

Magnolia Hill, 28

The Dollhouse Toy Store, 11

Doodlebugs Consignment, 52

Mathnasium, 32

The Montgomery Academy, 71, Back Cover

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 39

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 27

Tiger Park Taekwondo, 101

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 100

Montessori @ Hampstead, 22

Trinity Presbyterian Church Preschool, 54

E & S Hobbies, 101

Montessori @ Mulberry, 47, 70

Trinity Presbyterian School, 15, 74

Easter Seals Central Alabama, 18

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 35, 72

True Vision Health and Wellness, 101

Eastmont Marriage Conference, 14

Montgomery Christian School, 80

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 18

Eastwood Christian School, 31

Montgomery Humane Society, 8

Vaughn Road Preschool, 89

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 80

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 92

Vishnu Dental, 41

Evangel Christian Academy, 33, 66

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 51

W.A. Gayle Planetarium, 71

First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 83

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 81

YMCA Montgomery, 100

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Into the Woods

Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: BSexual Content: BLanguage: B Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb PG for mild action, some rude humor and brief language. Director Shawn Levy hit upon an intriguing project with the 2006 movie Night at the Museum. Who wouldn’t be totally amazed by exhibits that came to life as soon as the sun went down? In this third installment the single dad has returned to his security job at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City. But he’s also been placed in charge of nighttime operations. To help raise interest in the new planetarium, he’s planned a spectacular evening show with special effects. Unbeknownst to the museum’s director Dr. McPhee (Ricky Gervais), the special effects are actually the exhibits come to life. However after a spectacular beginning, things start to go terribly wrong and Ahkmenrah (Rami Malek) discovers his golden tablet (which brings everyone to life) is deteriorating. To resolve the problem before everyone permanently turns back in to wax and plastic, Larry and his son Nick (Skyler Gisondo) make an emergency trip to the British Museum of Natural History with Ahkmenrah and the magical tablet. Of course, the franchise’s favorite characters manage to sneak a ride across the pond as well. When Larry uncrates the Egyptian prince and his tablet, he finds Attila the Hun (Patrick Gallagher), Sacajawea (Mizuo Peck), Dexter the monkey (Crystal the Monkey), Jedediah (Owen Wilson), Octavius (Steve Coogan) and Teddy Roosevelt (Robin Williams). The group’s arrival at the British Museum allows for the introduction of several new characters including Sir Lancelot (Dan Stevens) and Tilly, the affection-starved security guard (Rebel Wilson). With any luck, their adventures in London will also spark a renewed interest in that city’s exhibitions. The action doesn’t differ dramatically from the first two movies, with lots of silly slapstick and mad capers. The fascination with monkey urination continues and there are several mildly suggestive comments from the Roman soldier Octavius who has a pronounced interest in the blue-eyed Lancelot. The story ends with a kiss that only a die-hard animal lover wouldn’t find a little creepy. However the franchise’s finale wraps up with a fond farewell to the menagerie of historical characters we’ve come to know. And in a touching scene between Larry and Teddy Roosevelt, who mounts his horse for the last time, the former U.S. President tells his friend it’s time to let him go. The comment becomes a tribute to one of movie’s two comic geniuses that passed away this year (the other is Mickey Rooney who played one of the older security guards). But maybe best of all, Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb carries on with the notion that the world is full of things to learn -- and you never know what you might discover at a museum.

What Parents need to know about Night at the Museum: Secret of the Tomb...

Violence: A man attacks a boy. A man shocks himself on the head with a defibrillator. A character uses a defibrillator to kill an aggressive beast. A man uses his sword to fight off an attacker. A man is electrocuted. Another character is hit on the head with a hammer. A man threatens others with a weapon. Sexual Content: A male character makes several mildly suggestive comments about other men. A female security guard flirts with a couple of men. Language: The script contains a handful of mild profanities and name-calling. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. Other: A monkey urinates on two men. Several other jokes about defecation and urination are included. Montgomery Parents I January 2015

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: BSexual Content: B Language: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use:A The MPAA has rated Into The Woods PG for thematic elements, fantasy action and peril, and some suggestive material. The old adage, “Be careful what you wish for,” must have been on the mind of Stephen Sondheim when he penned the musical Into the Woods. Take the mistreated Cinderella (Anna Kendrick) for instance. She wishes, more than anything, to go to the King’s festival where she hopes to dance before the prince (Chris Pine), who happens to be one of the most eligible bachelors in the land. Or look at the local Baker and his wife (James Corden and Emily Blunt), who can cook up anything... except a baby. Then there’s a poor boy named Jack (Daniel Huttlestone). All he desires is to keep his best friend, a milky white cow, from being sold by his money-conscious mother (Tracey Ullman). And what about the cookie-swiping Red Riding Hood (Lilla Crawford) who only craves a few treats to take to her grandmother (Annette Crosbie)? All of these yearnings seem reasonable enough. They might even be obtainable -- with a little bit of magic and a trip into the woods. For the Baker and his wife, the hope of a child comes with an unexpected visit from the Witch living next door (Meryl Streep). After explaining to the couple the reason for their barrenness, she offers them a chance to break the curse. All they need to do is find four specific objects before midnight three days hence. So the spouses head into the woods on an odd sort of scavenger hunt that will have them crossing paths with other forest visitors, such as a woman fleeing from a ball, a child swallowed by a wolf, a farm boy with a sickly animal and a long-haired woman locked in a tower (MacKenzie Mauzy). All the while the pair is desperately begging, coercing and/or cheating to prove they will do whatever it takes to obtain the desire of their hearts -- so are the wishful people they stumble upon. Unbeknownst to any of them, the Witch also has a secret longing. And she’s not above stooping below manipulation (or even force) to get her hands on what she is after. Despite straying from the path a little, lying a little and stealing a little, most of the characters emerge from the woods with what they asked for -- plus a bit more knowledge than they had before their experiences in the forest. But their happily-ever-afters don’t last forever. Soon giant consequences loom over them. Second thoughts find some characters trading long-term happiness for moments of pleasure. Others discover the agony of pursuit is more enjoyable than the finality of acquisition. And one learns the tighter the grasp, the more likely love is to slip away. These murky themes, mirrored in the dark images of the film, may come as a surprise to those unfamiliar with the stage play. Family viewers may be the most likely to be caught unawares if they assume a Disney production full of musical numbers should be suitable for youngsters.

What Parents need to know about Into the Woods...

Violence: Children are mistreated by parents who use deprecating remarks, lock them away, demand they accomplish unobtainable tasks and cuff them. Characters are punished with magical curses. Characters lie, cheat and steal. A child and old woman are swallowed by a wolf (their decent into his stomach is shown like a long dark tunnel). A man stabs a wolf, releasing people trapped in the animal’s stomach, and the fur is later made into a cape. Perilous situations and death are depicted. A woman cuts off the toe and heel of her daughters’ (implied not shown). Birds peck out the eyes of a couple of characters. Sexual Content: Women are seen in revealing costumes. A man rips his shirt to reveal his chest. Kissing is shown and infidelity implied. A husband and wife behave affectionately. A wolf lusts after the pink flesh of a little girl. Language: Terms of deity are used as expletives. Alcohol / Drug Use: A character drinks a magic potion.

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Rigorous Academics. Lasting Friendships.

MA students come from many different backgrounds, but they share one quality—intellectual curiosity. We invite you to see what makes MA one of the leading independent schools in the South.

Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y Kindergarten Open House January 22, 2015 Ask about financial aid options that make an MA education a possibility.

Contact Susannah Cleveland Director of Admissions admissions@montgomeryacademy.org

334.272.8210 montgomeryacademy.org The Montgomery Academy admits students of any race, religion, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students of the school.


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