Egg Hunts & Prizes Hunts & Prizes Inflatables
Easter Bunny Easter Bunny Bunny Crafts Music Music Music Games
Petting Zoo Petting Zoo Hayrides Hayrides Face Painting Painting Painting Food Food Food Treats and MORE! and MORE!
Thrill rides, waterparks, coastal lodging options, and a free entertainment district–it’s all here, at OWA Parks & Resort!
Tips for helping your first-time day camper have a great experience.
Find the perfect fit for your child in our listing of local and regional camps.
10 options for in-town summer fun.
Five ways they’ll develop and mature.
Bronner Nyberg (12), Bryce Rascoll (13), and Lyra Nyberg (10) are pictured in the art studio at Wine and Design, 7732 Eastchase Parkway. This summer’s Art Buzz day camp will feature fun, kid-approved themes sure to ignite your child’s imagination. (Details in this month’s Summer Camp Guide.)
Bronner and Lyra are the children of Nick and Amanda Nyberg and Bryce’s parents are Tim and Lauren Rascoll.
Spring is just around the corner, which means it’s time to start planning for one of the most exciting parts of the year—summer camp season!
Our teenage daughter, Grace, has spent years attending both day camps and sleepaway camps, and we’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact these experiences have had on her. From developing independence to making new friends with ease, discovering hidden talents, and trying activities she never would have at home, the camp
each summer has brought new challenges and joys that have helped her grow in countless ways.
If you’re considering sending your child to camp this summer, you won’t want to miss our article, ni Haas dives into all the benefits overnight camps have to offer. But if your family isn’t quite ready to take that big step, we’ve got you covered with Pam Molnar’s Alternatives to Overnight Camp, experiences without the overnight stay.
And, of course, don’t forget to explore our details on local and regional day and overnight camps covering a wide variety of interests—from sports and outdoor adventure to art, theatre, dance, and more. There’s something for every child, no matter their passion. Or maybe this is the summer they’ll discover a brand new interest or hobby!
This issue also features our the inspiring story of Arleshia Johnson, as well as our Adrienne Stallworth, where she shares about finding herself again after becoming a mother, handling sibling conflicts, and why she loves being a “boy” mom. And, flip to page 12 to meet our extraordinary goes above and beyond to inspire and support students. Join us in celebrating her achievements and the positive impact she has made in our community!
So, as we prepare to spring forward on March 9, warmer (and longer) days ahead and a season of new experiences, cherished memories, and plenty of fun!
River Region Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. River Region Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006)
Editor
by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com
Parents often come to see me because they are distressed about their child’s “extremely bad behavior.” When I try to collect details about the problem, very few parents can answer the simple questions I ask. Let’s look at an example of a child biting and hitting every time his parents tell him, “No”. I ask them to think about the last time this took place and attempt to understand what happened before, during, and after the aggression. Instead of giving details, parents often answer with, “You just don’t understand, it is so bad. He will just hit us until we give him what he wants. We have no other choice.” Most of the time, the reason for their child’s behavior is not pathological, it is simply a product of learned history. Learned history is the collection of past interactions and experiences that influence a person’s current behavior. This is what learned history looks like in daily life: if a child’s aggression gets him what he wants, he is going
to be aggressive when he is told “no”. If a child sneaks into the pantry to get a cookie, she is going to do it again. If a child lies about homework and escapes the assignment, he is going to lie again. Without intervention, we all repeat what has been effective in our past.
Here is a practical approach to help your child establish healthy habits through learned history.
• Make sure that your children ask permission. You must ensure that communication and engagement are at the forefront of their learned history. If not, they find ways to work around communicating with others to get what they want.
Learned history also impacts emotional development. For example, if you feed into your child’s fears, she will become more afraid. If you allow your son’s anger to dictate what happens next, he will expect others to give in to his anger. If you become over-
whelmed every time your children display negative emotions, they become terrified every time they feel bad. I am not suggesting that you ignore their emotions, just validate while helping them learn that emotions are indicators, not dictators.
Here is a practical approach to help your children learn that emotions are not dictators.
• When you ask your child to do something, do not let their emotions dictate task completion. Too often, parents become distracted by their child’s emotional responses and lose focus on what is important. Some parents overly indulge their child’s emotions, “I am sorry this makes you angry, you do not have to do it.” On the other end of the spectrum, some parents attempt to punish emotions. For example, “You are not allowed to be upset when I ask you to clean up your toys. You must do this with a ‘happy heart’.” Instead, simply join with your child and help them. Even if their response is negative, encourage completion. Your job is to focus on the task and help your child succeed.
Celebrate every moment you have with your children and stay focused on what is important: help them do what you ask them to do and communicate their wants/needs. Do not let all the worries you have about raising healthy adults rob you of the joys of this season of life.
Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.
April 5 * 9am-5pm
Spinners Park * Prattville Hop into spring with a fun-filled day of shopping, food, and door prizes at the 6th Annual Bunny Shop Hop in Prattville! Enjoy a variety of vendors, delicious treats, and festive Easter fun. Plus, free admission and parking make it the perfect family-friendly event! https://www.facebook.com/PrattvilleSpinners/
April 5 * 10am-5pm
Cooters Pond Park * Prattville, AL
The Wilson Pickett Music and Arts Festival is an annual event held in Cooters Pond Park in Prattville, Alabama, celebrating the arts and the legacy of Wilson Pickett, a Prattville native. Festivities include an entertainment stage, food vendors, children’s activities, and an artist village, featuring local and regional artists representing a variety of media. For more information about registration, please call the Special Events office at 334-595-0850 or visit wilsonpickettfestival.com.
March 14-16 * Garrett Coliseum
The rodeo coming to town means more than just buckin’ broncos, barrel racing and burly bulls. It means FUN for the ENTIRE FAMILY! The 2025 rodeo is packed with events sure to please audiences of all ages. Whether it’s the parade downtown, the Stick Horse Rodeo prior to the main event, or the Western Festival; there is something everyone can enjoy. Come on out and get your COWBOY ON! https://www.slerodeo.com/
March 22, 11 am to 3 pm Montgomery Whitewater Join Down Syndrome Alabama in celebrating World Down Syndrome Day! This special event is a fun-filled day of fellowship dedicated to honoring and celebrating our friends and family members with Down syndrome. Enjoy lawn games, sweet treats, and a welcoming atmosphere that promotes inclusion and community. Admission to the park is free, so bring your lawn chairs, blankets, or a tent and spend the day connecting with others in a joyful and supportive environment. We can’t wait to see you there!
March 14 * Riverwalk Amphitheatre The Montgomery Smooth Jazz Festival celebrates various music genres with an emphasis on Smooth Jazz and R & B. Now in our 3rd year, the festival will provide two days of outstanding performances for national jazz and R & B artists. Our main stage at the Riverfront Amphitheater will feature live performances accentuated with large video screens including a specially designed interactive screen allowing the artists to stylishly operate harmoniously with the music. Artists include Boney James, Leela James, Evelyn “Champagne” King, and many more. Get tickets at https://www. montgomerysmoothjazzfestival.org/
March 15 * 6am Starts in Selma and ends at the capitol in Montgomery The Civil Rights Race Series will be hosting the Selma to Montgomery 51-Mile Relay Race and Bike Ride to commemorate the 1965 worldrenowned march led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The race will start in Selma, and end at the state capitol in Montgomery. Register at www.selmatomontgomeryrelay.com/.
April 5, 3-6pm * Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium WHO’S READY FOR SOME CRAWFISH?! Reduced price EARLY BUG tickets are on sale until March 3. VIP tickets are available until they sell out. Both of these tickets allow early admission at 2 PM. VIP includes priority seating and a free event t-shirt and koozie. General Admission and day of ticket sales will be admitted at 3 PM. All tickets include: ALL YOU CAN EAT crawfish and fixins (Corn, Potatoes, Conecuh Sausage), Live Entertainment, Admission to the Biscuits Baseball Game, and a free fireworks show. Tickets available at www.mudbugball.com.
March 25 at 7 PM * Auburn, Alabama
A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget! Set on a Greek island paradise where the sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. For nearly 25 years, people around the world have fallen in love with the characters, story and music that make “MAMMA MIA!” the ultimate feel-good show. Tickets: 334.844.TIXS (8497) or email gpactickets@auburn.edu.
Troy University’s Davis Theatre ADT is thrilled to announce the world premiere of Snow White, an original ballet choreographed by Sara Elyse Sanford on March 7 at 7 pm, March 8 at 2 pm and March 9 at 2 pm. This captivating new production brings to
March 13-April 6 ASF
A fun-loving young man comes face to face with the kind of greed and inhumanity that won’t let him sleep at night. Suddenly he’s an outlaw hiding in Sherwood Forest where he joins up with a band of followers includ-
March 2, 23 and April 6, 27
Options: Set Up, Hospitality, Coach Juniors, short court, full court, or ball person. We provide orientation so all volunteers will have the knowledge necessary. Visit www.dreamcourt.org/volunteer.
Suze Weed is no stranger to Alabama Christian Academy (ACA). The school holds a special place in her heart, and it’s been a part of her life for a long time. She’s been fortunate to share in its rich history since the age of six and witness the impact that it’s made on numerous children’s lives. She graduated from ACA, her three children graduated from ACA, and her mom and aunt were teachers at the school. And now, she’s been fortunate to carry the torch and teach at an institution where she speaks to God daily.
Suze attended college at Auburn University in Montgomery and earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education. Over the years, she’s taught students from K2 - 1st and loved working with younger students. When a 4th-grade position opened at ACA, she decided to step out of her comfort zone and try something new while teaching older students. She thoroughly enjoys the age and grade.
As a teacher, she’s prepared to wear multiple hats. Her teacher’s hat: she finds several ways of educating her students when there’s no perfect curriculum. A mother’s hat: Loving her students like they are her own. Counselor’s
hat: Being there for her students through tough times. Policeman’s hat: Disciplining students when it’s not her favorite thing to do. A nurse’s hat: She takes care of the bumps, bruises, and fevers. And finally, a judge’s hat: Teaching students to value others’ opinions and find a compromise.
Though teaching is rewarding, and the hours appear specific, Suze shares, “Teaching is not an 8 - 3 job. I think about students before, during, after school, and on the weekends. When I am out in public, and I mention my 40 kids, I get funny looks. I realize I should clarify I’m a teacher.”
Her main goals are doing her best to chal lenge the advanced students and help strug gling students succeed. She desires to reach all her students, even if that means using different tools, resources, and ways to educate them. She finds ways to pique their interest, strike curios ity, and teach them how to love, be respectful, show kindness, and strive to be like Jesus.
As we continue to work together to ensure our students’ success, I am filled with pride as I reflect on the partnerships we have cultivated within our community. One such partnership that brings us great joy is with the Herbie Hancock Institute for Music Education. This collaboration helps provide our students with an enriching music education that enhances their creativity, discipline, and passion for learning. We are proud to see the impact it is having on our students and are excited to continue this journey together.
We also have had three of schools be recently recognized as International Baccalaureate schools. As IB schools, these campuses are now part of a global network focused on providing an academically chal-
lenging, internationally-minded education that prepares students for success in today’s interconnected world.
As we get closer to the Alabama Comprehensive Assessment Program testing, now is a great time to help your child feel prepared and confident! You can help them by establishing consistent routines, creating a quiet study space, and encouraging positive thinking. A good night’s sleep and a healthy breakfast can also make all the difference. Together, we can ensure that every student feels prepared and confident to do their best.
Spring Break is just around the corner, from March 17th to March 21st! While this is a time to recharge and relax, many of our amazing community partners, like the River Region YMCA, are hosting Spring Break camps to keep your child engaged, active, and learning. These programs offer great opportunities to stay productive while having fun!
March also marks Read Across America Month, a wonderful opportunity to foster a love for reading in our children. Whether it’s
reading together at home, visiting the local library, or participating in school activities, let’s celebrate this month by encouraging our children to read and explore new worlds through books.
Lastly, I want to remind everyone how important attendance is. We encourage our students to show up ready to learn and grow each day. Every class, every lesson, and every moment matters. Your child’s consistent attendance contributes to their success, and we are committed to providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive. Remember, #EverydayCountsWithMPS!
I am so grateful to be part of this incredible community. Together, we are helping our children become tomorrow’s leaders. Thank you for your commitment to their success!
Wilson is the Interim Superintendent and Chief of Staff for Montgomery Public Schools. She is a passionate leader, dedicated to empowering youth and working to support them to reach their highest potential.
At Trinity, we believe in nurturing not only academic excellence but also a heart for service. Through our student-led Change 4 Change initiative, Trinity students have the opportunity to make a meaningful impact in the community— one coin at a time. Each month, our Student Government Association (SGA) rallies students to bring in spare change, collectively supporting local nonprofits and ministries. Recently, we were honored to present Dr. Phillips with Life on Wheels a donation from the funds raised through this initiative. Over the years, Change 4 Change has empowered students to support a variety of organizations, instilling the values of generosity, compassion, and service. This semester, we are proud to partner with the Cancer Wellness Foundation, providing financial assistance and resources to cancer patients in need. At Trinity, we don’t just talk about making a difference—we put our faith into action.
Send Your School News and photos to: editor@riverregionparents.com.
Macon East Academy senior, Regan Frazer, has officially signed to play softball at LaGrange College. As an outfielder, Regan has exceptional skills on the field, and she will continue to showcase her talents as a Panther. LaGrange College, a proud member of NCAA Division III, offers an excellent platform for her to grow both academically and athletically. Congratulations to Regan on this exciting next step in her softball career! We look forward to seeing her succeed at the collegiate level.
MA Upper School French and AP Studio Art students recently had the unique opportunity to engage with visiting French artists Louis Boidron and Edouard Egéa, the duo known as MonkeyBird Crew, during their recent mural installation in downtown Montgomery. Students observed the creative process behind the large-scale stencil artwork and came prepared with questions to ask in French, allowing them to learn more about the artists’ inspiration and techniques. They also had the opportunity to speak with Yannick Boesso, founder of the Urban Art Fair in Paris, and artist-inresidence, and R.C. Hagans, who shared his own story of growing up in Opelika and developing a passion for stencil art. Students walked away having a deeper appreciation for the power of art to transform public spaces and the dedication and vision necessary to build community through art.
Alabama Christian Academy recently received a special visit from the First Assembly Youth program, which came to campus with a mission of encouragement and gratitude. The group brought an assortment of delicious treats for the faculty and staff, serving as a token of appreciation for their dedication and hard work. This thoughtful gesture was more than just a simple snack break—it was a heartfelt effort to uplift ACA’s educators and remind them of the positive impact they have on students every day.
The First Assembly Youth, known for their commitment to serving others, took time to connect with teachers and staff, spreading kindness and joy throughout the school.
ACA is grateful for this meaningful visit and looks forward to future opportunities for partnership with First Assembly. Moments like these highlight the power of community support and encouragement, reinforcing the school’s mission to create a nurturing and faith-driven environment for both students and staff.
Saint James Kindergarten students marked the major milestone of 100 days of school with a day filled with fun and learning! To celebrate, students participated in handson activities centered around the number 100, including counting collections, building structures with 100 stacking cups, and creating self portraits showcasing what they would look like at 100 years old. Each student also wore their own shirts decorated with 100 items. These engaging activities reinforced early math and literacy skills while fostering excitement for learning.
“Our 100th-day celebration was a wonderful way for students to reflect on how much they’ve grown,” said Kindergarten teacher Mrs. Anne Auston Morrison. “It’s amazing to see how much they have learned in just 100 days!” This fun day highlighted the students’ enthusiasm, creativity, and sense of community.
It is with great pleasure that we announce Jonathan Chandler as the new Head Football Coach at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School. Coach Chandler is an Opelika native and a former Troy University football player. He served as a Graduate Assistant at Troy for two years before continuing his coaching career at Opelika High, Wetumpka High, and most recently as Offensive Coordinator for Pike Road High School.
“I am pleased to announce Jonathan Chandler as the new head football coach at Montgomery Catholic. Jonathan and his wife, Tiffany, bring a family-oriented approach to the game of football that will only continue to build on the firm foundation established in our championship program. Jonathan brings a character-building mindset and offensive strategy from competing at the highest levels. Knight nation, the future is bright!” explained Montgomery Catholic President, Justin Castanza. In this time of coaching transition, Athletic Director Daniel Veres was proud to share, “ I am tremendously excited to be able to bring Coach Chandler and his family into our Montgomery Catholic family. The interest in this job was almost overwhelming. This is a direct testament to the hard work of those who laid our foundation, as well as the resilience of our kids. We are very proud of where we are as a program, and extremely excited to see where Coach Chandler can take us.”
Coach Chandler, Tiffany, and their daughters Stallings and Spivey Rose will be wonderful additions to our Montgomery Catholic family. We look forward to his leadership for our athletes and his involvement in our greater school community. “My family and I are honored and excited to join this community as the new head football coach at Montgomery Catholic. We look forward to working with our talented student-athletes, dedicated faculty and staff, and supportive parents to create a program that embodies hard work and respect. Together we will strive for success and use the momentum of the past to develop a product that all stakeholders in the Catholic Family will be proud of. Let’s get ready for
MCS kindergartener and her mother are karate athletes! Herleiny is an Olympian and is an owner/instructor at Budokan Alabama Karate-Do. This MCS SUPERMOM also represented Alabama in a National Meet and WON 1st place! She represented Venezuela in the Olympics. Her dojo is hosting a national competition soon, bringing karate enthusiasts from all over the United States to Montgomery! She and her staff taught basic karate principals to MCS kindergarteners and staff.
Forest Avenue Academic Magnet is SO PROUD of 5th grader Lynn Kim for going to ROUND 50 in the county spelling bee and WINNING! She will represent Montgomery County in the State of Alabama Spelling Bee.
Thanks to the Alabama Power Classroom grants, two teachers from Bear Exploration Center, Ms. Keisha Graves (3rd grade) and Mrs. Maria Ball (1st grade), are receiving $1,000 each. Ms. Graves will use her grant for The Great Outdoor Classroom project, which includes building a sensory garden and weather station in the school’s Certified Alabama Outdoor Classroom. This handson project will inspire curiosity and creativity while deepening students’ understanding of science and nature. Mrs. Ball’s Mindful Minds, Mindful Hands project will enhance learning experiences by providing resources to create a more engaging classroom environment, fostering academic growth for her first-grade students.
Resurrection Catholic School celebrated School Counselors Week by honoring our favorite Counselor, Mrs. Latoka Gibbs! We Love YOU Mrs. Gibbs!
Rosa Parks is best known for her role as a civil rights activist. The Alabama native also worked as a seamstress at the Montgomery Fair department store. Parks was also the secretary of the Montgomery, Alabama chapter of the National Association for the Advance ment of Colored People (NAACP) from 1943 to 1956. Parks was on her way home from work on Dec. 1, 1955, when she was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on the bus to a white passenger.
Bridget Biddy Mason was born into slavery. Mason fought for freedom for herself and her three daughters and demonstrated courage, charity, and positivity. Thank you, Biddy Mason for your contribution to making a difference.
5th and 6th grade students work on wind power project at Resurrection Catholic School.
The Saint James eighth grade class recently made its annual visit to the nation’s capital as part of their American History curriculum, taught by Mrs. Venna Everett. This highly anticipated trip provides students with the opportunity to experience the rich history and cultural significance of Washington, D.C., firsthand. During their visit, students toured many of the city’s most notable landmarks, including Arlington National Cemetery, the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum, the Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial, the U.S. Capitol, the People’s House, the International Spy Museum, and the Steven F. Udvar-Hazy Center, among others. The visit to the Holocaust Museum was especially poignant, offering students a powerful and reflective experience.
A highlight of the trip was the special honor bestowed upon several Saint James students who participated in the wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery. The students selected for this distinguished role were Molly Philliips, Joseph Light, Sean Woessner, and Grace Wykes, all children of active duty servicemembers. Their classmates observed the ceremony, gaining a deeper understanding of the sacrifices made by those who serve our country.
The trip also provided a unique opportunity to strengthen the Saint James community. The alumni office hosted a dinner., inviting Saint James alumni living in the area to join the current eighth grade class. This gathering fostered meaningful connections be tween past and present members of the school family.
In addition to the educational aspects of the trip, students enjoyed some fun activities, including attending a Washington Wizards basketball game and dining at Fogo de Chão. The annual D.C. trip remains a favorite tradition, creating lasting memories and en riching the students’ understanding of our country’s history.
George Washington Carver High School seniors engage in conversation with Mrs. Cargill about the Civil Rights Movement and the “merge” of Carver and Lanier; as they discuss the history of both schools and recap on the progress. Seniors are practicing the skill of interviewing to prepare for life after high school.
Forest Avenue 2nd graders are exploring how quickly the earth can change through natural disasters. We simulated a volcanic eruption today!
Montgomery Catholic has earned the College Board AP® Computer Science Female Diversity Award for achieving high female representation in AP Computer Science Principles (CSP). Schools honored with an AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award have expanded access to AP computer science courses for female students in their communities.
During the 2023-24 school year, 1,153 institutions achieved an AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award for CSA, CSP or both courses. Award contenders must either have reached 50% or higher female representation in one of the two AP computer science courses or have achieved a percentage of female computer science exam takers that meets or exceeds that of the school’s female population. Montgomery Catholic was one of only 847 recognized for improving female representation in AP CSP.
“We’re thrilled to congratulate our female AP computer science students and their teachers on this step toward equal representation in computer science education,” said School President, Justin Castanza. “We’re honored that our school earned this distinction and look forward to seeing these young women and others pursue and achieve success in computer science education and careers.”
“Computer science is the source code of our economy and much of the career landscape,” said Trevor Packer, head of the AP Program. “In the seven years since we began the AP Computer Science Female Diversity Award, it’s been heartening to see schools like Montgomery Catholic welcome so many more young women into this vital field.”
At Trinity, we encourage young minds to explore, create, and innovate! This year, we launched our first-ever Lower School Robotics Club, giving students the opportunity to dive into the exciting world of STEM.
Right now, these future scientists and engineers are hard at work building and programming a Code Base robot, developing critical thinking, teamwork, and problem-solving skills along the way. We can’t wait to see where their creativity and curiosity take them! At Trinity, the future is being built today.
On February 14, Montgomery Academy Fourth Graders took us on a musical journey through our country’s history in the program, American Voices. The show takes a look at the voices of our country’s past while reminding us of the opportunity our students have to be the voices who write America’s future. Bravo to all the 4th-grade students and teachers!
Evangel Christian Academy’s Kindergarteners just finished a unit on manners. To celebrate, students got to attend a super fun Manners of the Heart Party and even got to dress up in their fanciest clothes! Smiling faces were all around as students used their best manners while enjoying themselves with Valentine’s themed treats.
The National Merit Scholarship Corporation has named Montgomery Catholic senior Peter Riello as a National Merit Scholarship Finalist. He will compete with the other 15,000 finalists across the country for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $33 million.
The selection process involves evaluating information about Finalists obtained from both students and their high schools. Included are the Finalist’s academic record (course load and difficulty level, depth and breadth of subjects studied, and grades earned); PSAT/NMSQT® scores; the student’s essay; demonstrated leadership and contributions to school and community activities; and the school official’s written recommendation and characterization of the Finalist. Approximately half of the Finalists will be awarded National Merit Scholarships. Peter is currently a senior and has attended Montgomery Catholic for 9 years. He is a Section Leader and has been a member of the Marching Band for 5 years. He has won numerous band awards including Solo and Ensemble Festival awards, has been selected to the District Honor band all 6 years of middle and high school, and he was selected to the All-State Concert Band. He received National Hispanic Recognition from the College Board as a Junior and is a member of the Loretto Chapter of the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta, the National Math Honor Society. Peter is an active member of the Holy Spirit Catholic Parish Youth Group.
Mason Han, Jiyu Shin, Leah Jeong, & Sophia Kim. The competition was held January 31 on the Montgomery campus of Troy University. Teams from all over the state competed for the title. The Saint James High School Math Team is sponsored by Mrs. Rhonda Jones and the Middle School Math Team is sponsored by Mrs. Debbie Moncrief.
For the third year in a row, the Saint James High School Math Team won the AISA State High School Math Competition. Members of the team are Siwoo Kim, Stella Kim, Jacob Shin, & Woochan Kim.
The Saint James Middle School Math Team tied for first place at the state competition. Members of the middle school team are Yeriel Kim,
Macon East Academy is proud to announce the following students who were selected as representatives for the 2025 Dixie Electric Cooperative Youth Tour: Livi Robinson, Patrick Ernest, and Sam Wallace! These outstanding students have earned the opportunity to attend the Dixie Electric Montgomery Youth Tour in March 2025. During the tour, they will explore significant sites, engage in leadership and team-building sessions, and gain valuable insights into the workings of electric cooperatives. We look forward to hearing about their experiences and the leadership skills they will take away from this incredible opportunity!
On February 7, Montgomery Academy was beyond proud to host a signing ceremony for siblings Addi & DJ Vinson in Sidhu Gym. These two aMAzing athletes have spent their high school athletic careers smashing school & state records left and right and will carry on their athletic and scholarly careers to Jacksonville State where DJ will play football and AUM where Addi will play volleyball. Soar Eagles, soar! (Pictured with their parents Derrick and LJ Vinson)
Resurrection Catholic School students celebrated Valentine’s Day with a Sneaker Ball. They had so much fun!
The WINGS PTA at Alabama Christian Academy recently organized a heartfelt initiative to show appreciation for our dedicated teachers. Through the “Baskets of Love” program, parents had the opportunity to adopt a teacher and fulfill items from their classroom supply wishlists. Each basket was thoughtfully curated with supplies the teachers needed, ensuring they had the tools to continue fostering a dynamic learning environment for our students. From markers and paper to organizational tools and classroom essentials, these baskets were a tangible way for parents to express gratitude and support.
In addition to the supplies, parents also included handwritten notes of encouragement, expressing appreciation for the teachers’ hard work and dedication. These personal messages added a special touch, reminding our educators how valued and supported they are by the ACA community.
The response from our ACA families was overwhelming, with each teacher receiving their requested items and more. Seeing the joy and appreciation on the teachers’ faces as they received their baskets was a rewarding moment for all involved. WINGS—Working and Investing to Nurture Growth and Success—continues to find meaningful ways to uplift our teachers and staff throughout the year. Thank you to all the parents who participated in this initiative and helped make a difference in the classrooms of ACA!
February is Black History Month, and yes, TEA Christian Academy took full advantage of this opportunity to join in the celebration. This was a big deal, and the students were assigned to report on a Black History Maker every school day in the month of February. Their reports included information on the person’s life, the contribution they made in the world, and share how they viewed them in general.
A Black History program is held at TEA Academy every year the last Thursday in the month of February. The students gained a better understanding as to why Black History Month is important, but most importantly, they learn that history is made every day and there is room for them to take on their roles to help make a difference as well. The students at TEA Academy are being equipped with the attributes necessary to help make a difference. What are you doing to help change the world?
Trinity’s 8th-grade students recently returned from an unforgettable journey to Washington, D.C., where they explored the rich history and leadership of our nation’s capital.
Their adventure began at the Museum of the Bible, followed by immersive tours of the Naval Academy, the U.S. Capitol, Ford’s Theatre, and the Holocaust Museum. Guided by expert D.C. historians, students gained a deeper understanding of our nation’s monuments and memorials. A highlight of the trip was an exclusive visit to the U.S. Senate chamber, where students listened to live floor discussions, thanks to gallery passes provided by Senator Katie Britt. This remarkable experience blended history, government, and faithbased learning—showcasing how Trinity students engage with the world beyond the classroom.
Elevate your child’s math skills and confidence in 2025. Start them now with a free assessment so they can learn math in a way that makes sense to them. Watch as they become more engaged in class, eager to take on new challenges, and motivated to excel.
On January 30, MA senior Elle McBride officially signed her declaration to continue her athletic pursuits at Emory University (and continue to be an Eagle)! Elle’s volleyball career at MA has been packed to the brim with local, state, and national accolades, and her pursuit of academic excellence is nothing short of extraordinary, maintaining an overall 4.8 GPA and placements in a number of academic honor societies. And she’s not done yet, as she’s elected to take on one final sport here at MA, starting with Indoor Track this winter and finishing with Outdoor Track this spring! Congratulations on your accomplishments, Elle. MA is proud of you and your aMAzing achievements, and we cannot wait to see what comes next! Soar Eagle, soar! (Pictured with parents Rick and Jordan McBride)
Success Unlimited Academy’s art students enjoyed a fun field trip to the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts in February. Their art teacher, Mrs Barbara Grimes, and the StudioART members were thrilled to visit the student corridor where their artwork was displayed for the “You, Me and Us” exhibit.
George Washington Carver High School Ambassadors shadowed Alabama State University Golden Ambassadors at ASU’s 125th Founder’s Day Convocation. Students received hands-on mentorship and words of wisdom enriched with history.
CATCH fish with us in our stocked catfish pond.
FIND insects like grasshoppers, beetles, moths and more during our bug round up. VIEW birds using binoculars at our new bird blind.
EXPLORE the wonders of our Still Creek during a creek hike. GET UP CLOSE with some of our educational animals including our turtles, snakes, salamanders, and frogs.
CHECK OUT our interactive hands-on Discovery Hall.
Bear Exploration Center students celebrated Valentine’s Day with fun activities and special treats. The third grade students enjoyed a 50’s style Sock Hop which included hula hoop contests, ice cream floats, and dressing in their coolest 50’s outfits.
Resurrection Catholic School Pre K students did an awesome job on their Valentine’s Day project. They made mailboxes for their Valentine cards.
Alabama Christian Academy’s Lower School recently marked a special milestone—101 Magical Days of School! This fun-filled celebration turned an ordinary school day into an enchanting experience for students and teachers alike.
The day was packed with magic-themed activities that kept students engaged and excited. From hands-on crafts and interactive games to spellbinding tricks, every moment was designed to spark creativity and joy. A highlight of the celebration was a live magic show, where students were amazed by mind-boggling illusions and interactive performances that brought the magic of learning to life.
Dressed in magical attire, students and teachers embraced the theme with wands, capes, and even Dalmatian-spotted outfits in honor of the number 101. The event not only celebrated academic progress but also encouraged a love for learning in a unique and exciting way. ACA Lower School’s 101 Magical Days was a truly spellbinding experience, reminding everyone that learning is an adventure full of wonder and surprises!
Trinity is proud to announce that senior John Morris has been recognized as a National Merit Finalist, a prestigious honor awarded to the nation’s top scholars.
John ranks among the top 0.5% of PSAT scorers nationwide and was selected based on his academic achievements, leadership, and extracurricular excellence. As SGA President, a School Ambassador, and a multi-sport athlete, John exemplifies the well-rounded excellence Trinity instills in its students.
“John embodies what it means to be a Trinity Wildcat,” said Head of School Suzanne Satcher. “His dedication to academics, leadership, and character makes him a role model for his peers.”
As a National Merit Finalist, John is now eligible for prestigious scholarships. Congratulations, John, on this incredible achievement!
Montgomery Academy’s seventh grade class, led by teachers Kim Jordan, Jeff McIntyre, Stephanie Hill, Leslie Robertson, and Sarah Bryan, recently attended the Alabama YMCA’s Junior Youth Legislature program at the Alabama State House. Students spent the day learning about writing bills pertinent to the state of Alabama and how to debate those bills using proper parliamentary procedure. Congratulations to Lucy Hubbard, who was elected Assistant Floor Leader during the conference!
Forest Avenue 4th graders enjoyed touring Montgomery recently. They got to tour the Capitol, see Dr. King’s Church, tour the Archives, Old Alabama Town, and they got to see some bills passed in the House at the State House!
On the morning of February 13th, the Alabama Christian Academy Upper School faculty traded their lesson plans for spatulas as they hosted a special pancake breakfast for their students. This heartwarming tradition was a sweet outpouring of love, demonstrating the teachers’ dedication to not only educating but also nurturing their students in a meaningful way. As students arrived, they were greeted with warm smiles and the delicious aroma of fresh pancakes. Faculty members joyfully flipped flapjacks, and poured syrup creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere before the start of the school day. More than just a meal, the event was a reminder of the strong bond between ACA’s teachers and students— one built on care, encouragement, and a shared sense of community. The pancake breakfast was a perfect way to start the day, filling both hearts and stomachs. It reflected the ACA spirit of servant leadership and the school’s commitment to fostering meaningful connections. A big thank you to the Upper School faculty for making this event possible and for continuously pouring love into the lives of their students—one pancake at a time!
At Montgomery Christian School, Mrs. Williams’ third graders are eager gardeners and love growing their own fruit, veggies, and herbs! MCS is growing cabbage in a national competition. “Learning how to grow healthy food at an early age teaches kids to value the fun and hard work that goes into gardening. We’re always thrilled to share the appreciation and excitement of a bountiful harvest with our students and believe the joy of gardening is something you never outgrow.”-Mike Sutterer, Bonnie Plants President & CEO
Friday is Show and Tell Day at Resurrection Catholic School for our Pre K students.
George Washington Carver”s High School’s senior, Nasheed Benjamin recited poetry by Langston Hughes and Maya Angelou at the “Songs From The Soul” concert in Troy, Alabama at the Holman & Ethel Johnson Center for The Arts.
Mrs. Palmer’s and Mrs. Thomas’s 1st graders celebrated being “101 Days Smarter” by dressing up as dalmations! The students participated in a fun “101 Day” and dalmatian activities all day!
With much prayer, planning, and faith, Montgomery Christian Middle School (MCMS) is set to open its doors for the 2025-2026 school year. MCMS will include a new sixth grade class along with existing fifth grade. Thank you for your support and prayers during this time of growth. Our school will continue to emphasize providing an academically challenging education in a Christian environment while nurturing a focus on the arts, service, and leadership development in our students. This will include classes that highlight different types of leadership, the importance of service in our community and beyond, and fine arts. These are the bright and precious faces of our current fifth graders.
As we step into March, we find ourselves in an important season of growth—both academically and personally. Earlier this year, we had the privilege of hosting our High Expectations event, where rising high school students and their families explored the many academic and extracurricular opportunities available at Pike Road High School.
Students shared their personal experiences with Dual Enrollment, Advanced Placement (AP) courses, Career Tech Pathways, Fine Arts, and Athletics, while high school administrators explained graduation requirements and diploma options. Following the presentation, families visited booths in a career-fair-style showcase featuring representatives from various school organizations and postsecondary partners.
Students and parents had the chance to speak with college representatives about dual enrollment opportunities, teachers who encouraged students to challenge themselves with AP courses, and student club members who shared their enthusiasm for school organizations. Athletic coaches answered questions about sports programs, and our fine arts team highlighted the creative opportunities available through band, choir, and visual arts. This event was a wonderful way to showcase the possibilities ahead, and we appreciate our dedicated educators and staff who guide our students toward success at every stage of their academic journey.
March also brings a renewed focus on academic readiness as we prepare for state testing. These assessments are more than just a measure of student progress—they allow us to evaluate instructional effectiveness and identify areas where we can provide additional support. Our educators are committed to ensuring students are well-prepared, incorporating strategic learning techniques
and targeted interventions to help each student perform at their best.
We encourage families to play an active role by reinforcing good study habits, ensuring students get plenty of rest, and reminding them that their efforts throughout the year have prepared them for success.
As we enter the final stretch of the school year, let’s continue striving for excellence while also taking time to celebrate our progress. Spring Break will provide a welldeserved opportunity for students and staff to rest and recharge before we finish the year strong.
Thank you for your continued support in fostering a culture of learning, perseverance, and high expectations.
Superintendent, Dr. Keith Lankford has a wealth of experience in public education in Alabama. Before earning his Bachelor’s, Master’s, Education Specialist, and Doctorate, Dr. Lankford served several years in the Army and the National Guard. He has worked at almost every level of education, including paraprofessional, teacher, principal, and superintendent.
A huge congratulations to Senior Tiffany Marshall for proudly representing both Macon East Academy and Bullock County in the State Distinguished Young Women Program! Tiffany displayed remarkable talent, intelligence, and grace, making her school and community incredibly proud. Her dedication and hard work were evident throughout the competition, showcasing her excellence in every aspect. Tiffany’s achievement is an inspiration to all, and we can’t wait to see where her journey takes her next.
Students in C1 experienced firsthand what makes a town or community function. They engaged with first responders, enjoyed a readaloud at the library, toured our local Publix grocery store, and participated in a mock Town Council meeting at Town Hall. During the meeting, students presented proposals for the ‘council’ to vote on, while ‘citizens’ debated arguments for and against each idea. Now that they have a deeper understanding of our town, these students can practice being active, responsible citizens.
Macon East Academy’s lower school students had a fantastic time marking the 100th day of school! The celebration was filled with exciting activities, creative projects, and plenty of smiles. Students engaged in fun, hands-on learning experiences that made the milestone both educational and enjoyable. From dressing up as 100-year-olds to counting and crafting with 100 items, the day was a perfect blend of creativity and enthusiasm. The event not only reinforced important skills but also created lasting memories for students and teachers alike.
Pike Road Elementary School’s 3rd Grade PEP (gifted) classes hosted their first ever perplexor tournament to showcase their first semester gifted standards by competing with their family members and friends. The focus skills with this unit were; choices, strategy, connections, and problem solving! The students taught their family members how to complete the perplexors, and then they participated in some friendly competition. We appreciate all of the support for our gifted program.
Pike Road
Elementary School kicks off its 10th annual Book Madness Tournament! This beloved event invites students from kindergarten and first grade to combine a world of reading with a little friendly competition. Following the same format as a Sweet 16 Bracket, books are paired off for students to read and vote. Just like in its basketball counterpart, the winning books move to the next bracket, the Elite 8 until one book stands alone as the 2025 Book Madness Champion. This tournament fosters a love for reading among young students and introduces families to a few new stories. Previous winners include favorites such as Tuesday by David Wisener, Jumanji by Chris VanAllsburg, and last year’s winner, 100 Mighty Dragons all named Broccoli by David LaRochelle.
Students from Pike Road Intermediate School’s Jr. Beta Club and C6 PEP program recently embarked on an unforgettable educational adventure at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. The trip provided hands-on learning experiences that deepened their understanding of marine biology and environmental science. During their trip, the 86 students built remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), went on a research boat in Mobile Bay and dissected a squid. The trip also included visits to the Alabama Aquarium, an exploration of the salt marsh ecosystem, and a chance to observe local marine wildlife up close. A favorite among the students is the nighttime beach walk, where they sit on the beach turn all flashlights off look at the stars, and listen to the waves.
Pike Road High School is proud to celebrate 12 athletes who have declared where they plan to continue their athletic and academic education. GW held a Signing Ceremony for the seniors to publicly share their plans with coaches, parents, teachers, and friends.
Terrione Bell- Mills College, Football Akeem Blackmon- LaGrange College, Football
Audrey Blaine- Faulkner University, Basketball Kaila KJ Fencher- Southern Union, Basketball Desmond Harbour- Huntingdon College, Football Trey Hicks- Huntingdon College, Football Cody Kirk- Davidson College, Wrestling Lauryn Leonard- Southern University, Golf Gavin Rogers- Huntingdon College, Football Zion Stevens- Mills College, Football Corey Tims- Tuskegee University, Football Kathryn Wilson- Lurleen B. Wallace College, Volleyball
The spring semester always brings a flurry of activities as many of us take advantage of the longer days and warmer weather! For me, it’s a great reminder to remain committed to our mission of “fostering the whole student in an academically rigorous environment, where everyone is known and valued,” as most of our attention turns to preparing for the upcoming school year. While we continue to monitor progress, adapt to challenges, and work closely with our families to ensure student success this year, our thoughts turn to improving our processes for the future.
We’ll soon open our online enrollment portal for the 2025-2026 school
year. The new digital process that we implemented last year will continue with a few enhancements so that new families can enroll and returning families complete the “first-day forms” at their convenience from anywhere in the world. Those interested in pre-registering for Autauga Virtual Academy or the district’s preK lottery system can do that on our website now, and our In-District and Out-of-District Enrollment applications will be available soon. In addition to enrollment excitement, we are working to finalize our Code of Conduct for the upcoming year, continue growing STEM and robotics partnerships, and guide our elementary and middle school students through ACAP testing. There is so much to celebrate in Autauga County Schools! We remain committed to providing our students with every available resource; however, we are cautiously awaiting the future as state and federal
changes are anticipated. These two sources make up nearly two-thirds of our annual budget, so we are closely monitoring proposed legislative action. We will continue to remain transparent about financial challenges.
I encourage you to stay connected with us through social media and register to receive district news and events by visiting ACBOE.net/communitycounts. These platforms are the best places to stay up-to-date on everything going on in the district as we navigate the future together.
Thank you for your ongoing support and commitment to our schools. Together, we can accomplish amazing things!
Brown were named Most Valuable Players.
Justice Blackmon, Gabrielle Brown, Jacob Driver, and Jalen Hall were named to the All-Tournament teams.
Coach Turner said it best when he said “Happy to be a Bulldog.”
Congratulations to the Marbury High School varsity basketball teams for being crowned Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 5A Area 6 Champions! Nunu Jernigan and Jamar
The Prattville Intermediate Cougar Choir delivered an unforgettable performance to a packed audience during Winter Wonderland event. Families enjoyed an evening filled with entertainment, festive crafts, and games.
Autauga County Schools was honored to host Governor Kay Ivey, Dr Eric Mackey, the Alabama Department of Education Superintendent, and the Alabama School Board Members at Daniel Pratt Elementary School to announce Alabama’s historic gains on the NAEP, the nation’s report card. Since 2019, Alabama’s ranking in 4th grade Mathematics has increased from 52nd to 32nd (the highest ever) and Alabama’s ranking in 4th grade Reading has increased from 49th to 34th.
Congratulations to Britain Pasley, this year’s Spelling Bee Champion, who spelled her way to victory and moves on to compete at state later this semester! Autauga County Schools held its district Spelling Bee with impressive representation from Autaugaville School, Daniel Pratt Elementary School, Marbury Middle School, Pine Level Elementary, Prattville Elementary School, Prattville Intermediate School, and Prattville Junior High School! Even with tricky words, these students showcased their spelling skills and dedication to growing their vocabulary.
Students in Ms. Kemp’s 2nd grade class at Daniel Pratt Elementary School started in January working toward a huge goal: to receive a Valentine card from all 50 states! Family and friends of these students reached out to their personal contacts and took to social media to spread the word. As cards began to come in, the class found and pinpointed their origins on the map then displayed them in the classroom. By Valentines Day, these excited students had received a card from ALL 50 STATES plus 5 foreign countries!! They even received a delivery of cookies that were made in Alaska. What a fun way to bring geography and a little love to the classroom in a way these kids will never forget!
Congratulations to Billingsley School’s Alana Jones for being selected to compete in the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s North-South Volleyball All-Star game! Alana is a junior Outside Hitter/DS who will compete on the South squad among top volleyball athletes across the state during the AHSAA’s All-Star Week this summer.
The 5th grade gifted students at Pine Level have been working on coding for the past two years. Their coach is their gifted teacher, Mrs. Emily Gregory. This year they put their skills to the test in preparing and competing in their first VEX IQ robotics tournament. The students worked as a team beginning in October to decide on what robot to build for the competition. After many failed attempts and lots of frustration, one student was able to take the materials home and execute a robot. We then began learning about the Rapid Replay Game and practicing matches. The students discussed strategies to improve each week. They competed in the HYUNDAI SCORE tournament on February 6. They were able to advance to the final round and ended up placing 3rd. The team won the DESIGN Award for their notebook and interview. They were one of the youngest teams competing and persevered.
Autauga County Schools officially opened the doors of the new Prattville Kindergarten School following a ribbon cutting ceremony hosted by the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce last week. Community and business leaders celebrated the $30 million investment in education alongside current and former Autauga County Board of Education members and district leadership. Every inch of the approximately 87,000-square-foot building was designed with the district’s tiniest students in mind. The state-of-theart school serves just over 400 students but has the capacity to hold even more! It boasts a STEM lab, gymnatorium, music room, spacious lunchroom, multiple play areas, storm shelter, and 32 classrooms equipped with the latest technology.
Autauga County Schools students celebrated the 100th day of school on January 24 - that’s 100 days of learning, growing, and making memories! The district’s elementary students enjoyed dressing up for a day of mastering math facts and deepening reading comprehension skills designed as fun activities and games.
Robotics teams from the Autauga County Technology Center and Billingsley School are headed to state after competing well in local tournaments! ACTC’s Team 13907Y qualified (joining Team 13907F from a previous win this season) along with Billingsley’s Team 72390Aa program first after the team’s inception earlier this year. In addition to qualifying for state, multiple teams earned awards for their weekend performance. Team 72390A - Wallace State Tournament Champions Team 13907F - Maxwell AFB Tournament Champions Team 13907A - Design Award Winners
March promises to be another eventful month in Elmore County Schools! We have completed our spelling bees and science fairs, and I am proud to share the results of these important events for our students.
Each of our elementary and middle schools held their spelling bees in January and the school winners competed in the county spelling bee in February. Makenna Burton from Wetumpka Middle placed first again this year, and Cooper Baxley from Southside Middle in Tallassee placed second. Congratulations Makenna and Cooper!
Our district science fair was held recently and the following students placed first in their respective categories: Elementary Division (grades 4-5) were Zander Little, HES; and Hannah Greene, RMS. The Elementary Division had two second
place and two third place winners. Junior Division (grades 6-8) first place winners Lilly Garner, HMS; Maddy Stanfield, WMS; Ellakate English, RMS; Jessie Messer & Ali Goff-Scott, WMS; Andrew Shelton, MMS; Carson Kompelien, MMS; and Trent Smeland, RMS. The Junior Division had three second place winners.
Senior Division (grades 9-12) first place winners in their respective categories were Victoria Bullock & Michelle Burleson, HHS; Elijah Harris, SEHS; Perrin Novak & Katie Bloch, SEHS; Kira LeFevre, WHS; Jeremiah Ray, WHS; Hayden McKenzie, WHS; Joseph LeFevre, WHS; Dominic Vilardi & Nicholas Davis, WHS; Parker Thompson, WHS; and Jackson Taylor, WHS. The Senior Division had fifteen second place and twelve third place winners. Participating in science fairs can open doors to career opportunities and help students learn critical thinking and problem-solving skills they can use throughout their lifetime.
Our second graders recently culminated a 10-week Super Citizen Program,
utilizing the “Hands on Liberty” DVD series with activities on civics, character, financial literacy, and social studies. The students gathered to celebrate their accomplishments and honor local heroes in a county-wide assembly. We are proud of our students and thank our generous sponsors for making this program possible.
Pre-registration has begun for the First Class Pre-K random selection process for the 2025-2026 school year. Children must be 4 years old on or before September 1, 2025 to be eligible for the drawing. More information is available at www.elmoreco.com.
Spring break is March 24-28. Enjoy the warmer weather and take some time to relax, recharge, and return ready to finish the 2024-2025 school year strong!
Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.
First year students in the Elmore County Technical Center’s Medical Sciences program worked to perfect their CPR skills in various scenarios including with infants. Each student completed their BLS certification. Through the course participants learn to promptly recognize several lifethreatening emergencies, give high-quality chest compressions, deliver appropriate ventilations, and provide early use of an AED. Also, students at ECTC practice their suturing skills with kits that mimicked lacerations in human skin. Through this activity, students gain an understanding of the procedures to properly clean and stitch up a wound.
Culinary Arts students at the Elmore County Technical Center participated in King Arthur Baking Company’s Bake for Good program where ingredients are provided for them to prepare two loaves of bread (one to keep, one to share) and cinnamon rolls. Because of this effort, 32 loaves of bread and 25 boxes of cinnamon rolls were donated to the Elmore County Food Pantry.
The Rosa Parks bus visited ECTC’s campus in February as a part of Black History Month recognition. While inside seated on the bus, students listened to the history of the Montgomery Bus Boycott and impact Rosa Parks made during the Civil Rights Movement.
A group of students from the Elmore County Technical Center attended the debut of the Be Pro Be Proud Alabama semi-truck during February’s state board of education meeting. Students were able to tour inside of the trailer that includes training simulations for various in-demand jobs across the state. The truck will be available to schedule for campuses to share with students statewide starting later this year.
During January and February, 9th grade students from all high school campuses in Elmore County Schools visited the Elmore County Technical Center to tour prior to registration for courses for next school year.
School will be out before we know it! You find the perfect day camp for your little artist, swimmer or scientist, but you’re worried because camp is unfamiliar territory. Help prepare your child for what’s ahead with these tips to make his first camp experience a positive one.
• Have children memorize their full name, address and a parent’s cell phone number before camp begins.
• Many day camps require closed-toe shoes and many activities need kids to get shoes on and off quickly. Practice tying shoelaces; if your little one hasn’t mastered this skill before camp starts, consider a pair of Velcro shoes. Do trial runs until he masters getting shoes on and off in a timely manner. Practice makes perfect!
• Children should be able to zip their own pants and sweatshirts (or wear pullons so they are self-sufficient). Teach them to tie a sweatshirt around their waist.
• Apply sunscreen before leaving for camp; children who attend full-day camp should know how and when to reapply.
• Be sure your child listens to and follows directions well. Following directions is vital to keep everyone safe and having fun. Practice active listening skills by asking your child to follow multi-step directions and directions following sequential order.
• Review camp policies posted online before camp begins to help prepare him for expectations. Note that a child who pouts until he gets his way may not be ready for camp.
• Practice simple, direct responses to communicate dissatisfaction when necessary. Such as, “I don’t like that. Don’t do it again.” If an annoying or inappropriate behavior continues from another child, ask a camp counselor for help.
• Children should know how (and be willing) to ask for help when needed. If he has a special need, let camp staff know ahead of time. Kids and staff can even agree on a signal to get a staff member’s attention.
• Have kids practice asking for what they want (politely). Manners go a long way. You’ve taught your child “please” and “thank you”—be sure he says these important phrases without your cue.
• Packaging often poses a problem for little fingers. Practice opening wrappers and containers at home.
• Hand-washing is sure to be emphasized, but if it makes you more comfortable, ask camp staff ahead of time if hand wipes, sanitizer, or placemats are allowed in lunchboxes. Practice using these items at home to model expectations.
• One in 13 children has a food allergy; it’s likely that someone at camp will too. Swapping snacks sounds like fun, but it’s not safe for many kids. Cross-contamination can pose a big problem for kids allergic to nuts or gluten. Teach children not to share food and to respect other people’s space by not touching their lunchbox and food.
• Stop yourself the next time you start to clean up after your kids. Teach children how to sort trash from recyclables, throw items in proper bins, and most importantly, not to expect adults to clean up after them. Part of being successful, happy campers is for kids to help out and do their part.
For many first-time campers, enrolling with a buddy helps ease jitters. But it’s important to gain the confidence and skills to make new friends. Review and roleplay skills that show openness to making friends:
• Practice how to greet someone new. Make eye contact and smile.
• When someone says “hi”, teach children to reply, even if they feel shy. Not responding may be misconstrued that a child doesn’t want to be friends.
• Teach children to take turns.
• Discuss the idea that not everyone has to be friends—especially if your child is a people pleaser.
What has raising your grandchildren, now ages 6 and 5, taught you?
Raising my granddaughters has taught me patience, resilience, and unconditional love. I had to learn how to listen and communicate openly. I find myself being very affectionate to ensure they know I love them with all my heart. I live in the moment with them so they will have fond memories.
When your grandchildren were born, how did their births help you through some of your health challenges?
by Kim Spivey
My health began to decline in 2012, and by 2018, I was tired and ready to throw in the towel. But GOD had plans for me. In March 2018, Armoni was born, and 11 months later, Olivia was born. I had a new purpose and reason for living. They needed me, and I needed them. They were a part of me, and I wanted to be part of their precious lives.
For 10 years, you worked for the Department of Youth. How did that experience shape you as a grandparent?
Society has gotten away from the principles and foundations of raising children well. Working with juveniles, I was able to see problems with the youth. Children pay close attention to the things adults do and say. You must teach them values, consequences for their actions, accountability, and empathy.
Describe how your grandchildren’s milestones are important to you.
Each day gives life a new meaning. I was there for the birth of my two grandchildren, their first tooth, first steps, first words, terrible twos, first day of school, kindergarten graduation, and all of their beautiful growth. They are always surprising me with how much they are learning. Their journey has just begun, and I am here for the ride.
How do memberships at Rockin’ Jump and Chuck E. Cheese impact your grandchildren?
It is important to find safe places for your kids to go and have fun. By having memberships at Rockin’ Jump and Chuck E. Cheese, they can go anytime they want. It gives them a place to play, eat, and meet new friends. Both girls enjoy these outings, and I love to see them happy and having fun.
How did you encourage your grandchildren to pursue gymnastics and cheer?
Actually, they encouraged me to enroll them. They were excited when it was time to go to practice. I feel that gymnastics prepared them for cheering, but now they want to play softball. All the activities keep them busy, and they love it. I will continue to show my support for them.
It’s been said there’s nothing like being a grandparent, as it lives up to the hype. How would you describe your experience?
When you have children, you learn unconditional love. Giving birth to a child is the most precious gift, but being a grandparent is the most precious love. Our children began to say that we let the grandchildren get away with murder.
The realness is that you see your children with their children, and your legacy circle is beginning. My granddaughters are my life right now. Every day, we are looking to do something different. Our bond is inseparable. I am so proud of them. Being a grandmother is the greatest joy of my life.
Bio: Arleshia Johnson has two sons: Althalier (31) and Armondo (29). She has two granddaughters, Armoni (6) and Olivia (5), and resides in Montgomery, AL.
I recently tuned into Dr. Lisa Damour’s podcast, and if you’re not familiar with her, I highly recommend checking her out! You can find her on Instagram or listen to her podcast, “Ask Lisa.” As a renowned psychologist specializing in parenting, she consistently offers valuable insights and support for parents like us.
In this episode, Dr. Damour emphasized the critical role of a parent’s steady presence in a child’s life. I believe this is one of the most significant aspects of effective parenting. Life can be incredibly destabilizing, especially for young teens who are navigating various challenges. Add in the complexities of social media, and things can quickly become overwhelming.
whereabouts every moment. A steady presence can be as simple as having calm, focused conversations about your child’s day. Even a brief, two-minute chat can reassure them that you are actively engaged in their life.
Moreover, it’s important to create an environment where open discussions
In my years of working with teenagers and parents, I’ve noticed a trend: while kids will inevitably make mistakes— after all, they are still learning—those who have involved parents typically recover more quickly from missteps. They tend to face life’s challenges with greater resilience, knowing their parents are there to support them.
When I refer to “steady presence,” I don’t mean an unending barrage of questions, hours spent scrutinizing their devices, or the need to know their exact
about social media missteps can occur without fear of confrontation. Encourage your child to come to you when they want to vent and practice the art of listening without immediately jumping into problem-solving mode. I often advise parents to simply ask, “Do you want feedback?” after their teen expresses their feelings. Many times, the answer will be no; what they truly seek is the comfort of knowing they can share their thoughts and frustrations without judgment.
I’ll always remember a powerful story shared by a high school senior in front of a packed room of parents at a conference. She emphasized the importance of
fostering open communication with your children during difficult situations. She said, “You want your child to think, Oh no, I’ve messed up; I need to let Mom and Dad know. What you don’t want is for them to feel, Oh no, I messed up; I can’t tell Mom and Dad. I can never let them find out.” This level of connection is largely achieved through being a steady, supportive presence in your child’s life. Our kids are constantly online, and the digital landscape can be noisy and overwhelming. Online “friends” come and go, and the advice they receive about who to be and how to behave shifts daily. This chaos can add an extra layer of uncertainty to an already tumultuous time in their lives. Your steady presence serves as an anchor amidst this noise.
Often, at my conferences, I hear concerned parents asking if they are doing “enough” to protect their children. They want reassurance that their kids will be okay. I remind them that research shows children who have involved parents—those who engage in conversations and maintain a steady presence— navigate social media much better.
Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.
The competition dance teams (DC Strutters) at Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection had a busy weekend of dance with Jonathan Adams and Ms. Tonya to prepare for their big production piece this season! The teams will be competing in Columbus, GA and Montgomery this year with Spring Recitals on May 24th!
Tuesday, April 22, 2025, 10 a.m. - 3 p.m., Alcazar Shriner’s Temple 555 Eastern Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36117
The Annual Montgomery River Region Disability Expo 2025 is designed to connect those living with a disability, and those who love and care for them, with the resources needed to support greater independence. With around 80 vendors set up at the expo, we have resource info for almost every interest and need! The expo is free to attend and children and service dogs welcome. We know you may be attending over your lunch break. A hot lunch will be available to purchase at the food counter inside the building. Donations of medical equipment will be collected and shared with Easterseals Central Alabama’s Care Project! Want to be a vendor? We’d love to have you! SPONSORSHIPS are available!
Registration for the April 22, 2025 event is open. There is an early bird discount - don’t miss out! Take advantage of the benefits of Sponsorship, too! We are ALWAYS looking to highlight quality services, products, and programs at our expo. Vendor fees range from $25-$150. If you wish to get in front of the consumers who could best benefit from your business, then we want to hear from you! Visit https://riverregiondisabilityexpo.org/ for more information or to become a vendor.
My kids never went to an overnight camp. They were happier sleeping in their own bed and with a flexible work schedule, I didn’t have to worry about daycare most days. With some creativity, I found there are dozens of local opportunities to keep the kids busy this summer without breaking the bank.
Spend the week at Grandma’s. Every year my sister and I would spend a week with our grandparents. Twice we went on vacation with them, but most years we just hung out at their house. We played with our cousins, went shopping, played games and went to local events. It was nice to experience life with my grandparents in charge and it allowed my parents to go to work, worry free.
Vacation Bible School (VBS) is held at many different churches every summer. This is an activity that your kids can participate in from preschool to high school and beyond. It is usually presented as a half day camp where kids do crafts, sing songs, watch skits and play games around a bible theme. Many camps include a snack or lunch, too. The best part is that when the kids outgrow the activities, they can volunteer as a leader.
Attend a local high school camp. schools offer sports, music or science weeklong, half day camps.
The camps are usually run by older students and/or the coaches and teachers at the school. Camp is usually available to kids from third grade through high school. It is fun for kids to participate in camps at the high school they will attend one day as they usually get a cool t-shirt as part of the camp.
Go on vacation. Most families take some type of vacation – even if it is a staycation. Many people allow their kids to have a friend come along on the trip so they have someone their age. If you are lucky, that same friend will invite your child to go on vacation with their family.
Park district camps have something for everyone. In addition to sports, they may have cooking camps, STEM camps, first aid camps and art camps. Many YMCAs also offer an all day, day camp where campers go on local field trips to movies, pools, museums and zoos. The drop off and pick up is close to home. Choose one or more camps to suit your needs over the summer.
Create your own summer camps. Work with your neighbors and friends to arrange activities like those offered in park district day camps. Save a few vacation days to take your kids (and theirs) to local water parks, nature trails, etc. It is a great way to fill in the holes in your summer day care plans.
If you live near a university, take advantage of
Make time to volunteer. If your kids are middle school age, they can volunteer some of their time by helping younger kids have fun. Libraries are looking for kids to help with summer reading program tables. Churches look for VBS helpers. Animal shelters look for dog walkers and people to entertain the cats. Food pantries are look ing for stockers and nursing homes are always happy to see younger faces.
Take it day by day. your summer calendar, turn to social media like Facebook Events to find local enter tainment. The advertisers in this magazine are a great source to find new activities in town. Follow your favorite ones on social media for discount days and coupons.
Nannies are more than a toddler’s caregiver. Parents hire a summer nanny to help with driving to activities, preparing lunch, breaking up sibling squabbles and for someone to supervise at the pool. Care.com is a great place to look for summer day care, even if just part time.
Eight Macon East student-athletes were honored to participate in the 2022 AISA All-Star Football game held December 2 at Cramton Bowl. Deonte Powell, Sanders Manning, Gabe Spencer and Hunter Tillman all represented Macon East for the East team. Gabe Spencer was honored as Most Outstanding Offensive Back for the East team. Madison May, Ar’monni Payne, Hannah Kate Hodges and Mikalah Belser cheered the East team on from the sidelines as part of the all-star cheerleading squad. The participants enjoyed a few days of practice with their fellow AISA teammates. The East team beat the West team this year 36-22.
My daughter picked up several babysitting jobs on Care.com in addition to her part time job. She often searches for part time jobs that fit in with her free time. Over winter break, she found a job attending a cooking class with a special needs teenager who wanted some independence from mom and dad.
Have an unscheduled week. This is the week you can catch up on projects at home, shop for school supplies and clothes or create your own fun. This is also the week to schedule dentist appointments, school physicals and all those other things that need to be done over the summer.
is a freelance writer and mother of three. She has discovered that the best summer plans are made early and hearing “I’m bored” from her kids is unavoidable.
Ms. Johnson’s fourth grade class enjoyed an educational field trip this past Friday that goes along with their study of Alabama State History. The students were able to tour Alabama’s historic Capitol. They were able to view the beautiful rotunda, the spiral staircase, the Avenue of Flags, and the portraits of the former governors. The students also enjoyed touring The First White House of the Confederacy and The Alabama Department of Archives and History. Their special treat added to an already fun-filled day was eating lunch at Chris’ Famous Hot Dogs. Special thanks to Mrs. Custard and her daughter for taking time to guide us and give their expertise at all these historic places.
Another great source is your local Facebook page. Many teens and college students who live right in your neighborhood often look for summer positions early in the spring. Nannies don’t have to be girls. Although they are the traditional summer caregiver, there are plenty of boys who enjoy mentoring and hanging out with the next generation.
Our Leo club did a great job collecting toys to help make Christmas merry and bright for lots of children!
“With my treatments nearby, I could keep my family close.”
Reid—Colon Cancer Survivor
A diagnosis of stage four colon cancer and statistics showing I only had two years to live was haunting. Having three young children and a wife—I had a lot to fight for. After MD Anderson confirmed the treatment plan prescribed by the Montgomery Cancer Center, I was treated by the most caring and compassionate team right here at home. Receiving treatments and being with my family and friends made my cancer journey easier. Cancer treatments are exhausting, and staying home for high-quality care allowed me to focus my energy on fighting to be cancer-free for my family.
Art Camps
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Wild About Animals STEAM Camp: June 3-5 at Pike Road Arts Center and June 10-12 at The Armory Learning Arts Center.
Let’s Go Camping! Art Camp: June 24-26 at Pike Road Arts Center and July 8-10 at the Armory Learning Arts Center.
Both camps are 9 am to 12 pm, ages 3-5 & 6-12. Cost $170; all materials included. (334) 265.5758 mcornwell@abrakadoodle.com abrakadoodle.com/al-montgomery
Shakespeare Summer Camps
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ASF, 1 Festival Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117
June 9-July 26. Registration is open. Don’t miss these opportunities for theatre lovers — K – 12 and ADULT. Not only will campers have lots of fun in a theatre environment, they’ll also come home and return to work, community, and school with the beneficial FIVE Cs: Creativity, Collaboration, Communication, Critical Thinking, and CONFIDENCE! Three camp sessions for Rising K-6 graders and 3 for Rising 7th-12th graders. (334) 271.5353 asf.net
Art Buzz Kids
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Wine & Design, 7732 Eastchase Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36117
Beach Bash Art camp, June 9-12: Nothing is more fun than experiencing the beach through crafts, painting, and hands-on creativity. Each day, campers will soak up the feeling of sunshine through creative art activities centered around the beach. Children must bring a snack, lunch, and water bottle. (ALL items must be peanut free). For ages 6-12. Pricing Info $220 (Early bird $195 until May 9, 2025) per child for all 4 days (Coupons not valid) Please check our website for more information. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 245.3387 montgomery.al@wineanddesign.com wineanddesign.com/montgomeryal
“Summertime Fun Painting” with Barb Grimes
Bubba Company, 11650 Hwy. 80 E, Pike Road, AL 36117
Tuesdays and Thursdays: June 16, 17, 18,
June 23, 24, 25, July 7, 8, 9 and July 21, 22, 23
Summer classes 10:30 a.m. at Bubba Co. All classes are $15 each. FREE sweet treats. Ages: Ages 3 and up (334) 544.0303 barb2shop@yahoo.com
Mixed Media Art Camps with Barb Grimes Barb’s on Mulberry, 1923 Mulberry Street, Montgomery, AL 36106
“Mixed Media Art Camps” with Barb Grimes Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, 2 to 3:30 p.m.
Two Camps: June 17-19, June 24-26 and July 8-10 at Barb’s on Mulberry. For ages 5-12, $120
Ages: Ages 3 and up (334) 544.2233 barb2shop@yahoo.com
Pike Road Theatre Kids Production Camps Pike Road Intermediate School, 4710 Pike Rd, Pike Road, AL 36064
The Lion King Jr. Camp Dates: June 2-13
Performance Dates: June 13-14
Finding Nemo Camp Dates: July 24-August 1 Performance Dates: August 1-2
Please visit our website for more details. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 414.0193 info@pikeroadtheatrecompany.org pikeroadtheatrecompany.org
Wetumpka Depot Theatre Summer Camps 300 South Main Street, Wetumpka , AL 36092
The Wetumpka Depot Players will kick off summer programs from June-July. Enroll your students in a week-long summer program and various workshops. For dates and time contact kmeanor@ wetumpkadepot.com after April 1st for more scheduling details.
Ages: Ages 8-15 (334) 868.1440 wetumpkadepot.com
Alabama Dance Theatre
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Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104
June 23-July 24; The Alabama Dance Theatre will be offering summer classes in Classical Ballet (pre-ballet to the professional level), Modern, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, Composition/Choreography and Broadway. Classes open to ages 3 and up.
Tutus and Tiaras Camp for ages 3-8 on May 27-30 from 9:30-12:30. Classes will include pre-ballet, creative movement, crafts, and story time.
June 9-19: Summer Intensive: This two week intensive allows dancers to attend classes with master teachers. They will perform in the Stars on the Riverfront on June 20-21 at 7:30 p.m. Open to the public.
Hip Hop Stars Camp for ages 7-11, June 2-5.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 625.2590 alabamadancetheatre.com
Alabama River Region Ballet
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Festival Plaza, 7981 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116
Fairytale Ballet Camp: Please check back for dates. Register now for the most exciting event for young dancers, ages 3 – 7 years old! Each week, the dancers will learn about one fairytale ballet, meet the princess ballerina, and participate in themed crafts and activities.
Alabama River Region Ballet School is excited to offer a two-week Intensive Summer Seminar for intermediate and advanced students, ages 12 – 18 with a minimum one year of experience on pointe. Dancers will take daily classes in Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Jazz, Modern and Contemporary taught by some of the most talented guest artists and ARRB teachers. The Summer Intensive will include a repertory of classes that focuses on improving the dancers’ technique, as well as the opportunity to learn new choreography, and choreography from the classical repertory. Please call for pricing. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 356-5460 riverregionballet@gmail.com alabamariverregionballet.com
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3370 Harrison Rd, Montgomery, AL 36109
Summer Fun Dance Camps: 7 weeks of all day camps for ages 3-11. Dance, Music, Dress up days, Storytelling, Crafts, Interactive games and more.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 549.1098 Facebook: Tonya-SpeedsDance-Connection
Armory Athletics
1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104
Year round classes offered. Sports and recreation, swimming, arts & crafts, and educational field rrips! Parents, please provide lunches, swim wear & towel, concession money, and socks and closed toed shoes for field trips. Ages: Ages 5-14 (334) 625.2789 armoryathletics1@gmail.com armoryathletics.com
C.J.’S Dance Factory (home of Prattville Ballet) Prattville Ballet, 145 S. Court St, Prattville, AL 36067 Princess Ballerina Camp - Learn to dance like a princess! Taught by a real princess. Ages 3-9, $75 space limited. June 26-July 24, 2 p.m. Power Tumble Camp - Learn gymnastics, tumble technique and polish your tricks! Thursdays, June 26-July 24 at 5:30 p.m., $75 Ballet Technique/Pointe: Work on your ballet technique this summer with our Ballet Master, Stevan Grebel (Int/Adv. level) Bring pointe shoes. Thursdays, June 26-July 24. $75 Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 467.8603 ballerinasrule@msn.com cjsdancefactory.com
Montgomery Ballet
1044 East Fairview Ave, Montgomery, AL 36106 Summer Intensive Sessions: Advanced, June
Camp, Weekly themed activities, gymnastics, trampoline, rope climbing, crafts and more. 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Ages: 5-12. Please bring a sack lunch. Call for rates. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 284.2244 unitedgymstarsandcheer.com
Camp Program
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530 Antioch Lane, Pike Road, AL 36064
Hours: 6:45am to 6:00pm, Monday to Friday Our Summer Camp Program is designed specifically for children. The program lasts 10 weeks
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3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook, AL 36054
ANC Summer Camp: Camp dates and sessions offered from May 27 through August 1st. Please visit our website for session dates and descriptions for each camp. All camp sessions are co-ed and full day, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; with the exception of Tadpole Camp. Lunch is included and extended care is available.
Tadpole Camp for ages 5 years.
Nature Navigators for ages 6-7 years.
Trail Blazers 4-day camp for ages 8-9. Heritage Explorers for ages 10-11. High Adventure for ages 12-15. ARTventure for ages 8-12.
9-13 and July 7-11 for ages 13+ with experience. Intermediate Level, June 23-27 for ages 7-12+. Beginner Level, June 30-July 3 for ages 3-6. Ballet Boot Camp: July 28-August 1. Advanced level from 9 a.m. until noon and Beginner and Intermediate Level , ages 7-12+, from 1-4 p.m. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 409.0522 montgomeryballet.org
Pike Road Dance Academy
232 West Elizabeth Lane, Pike Road, AL 36117 Camps will be listed on our website soon. Please check our website for updates and information. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 782.9200 pikeroaddance@gmail.com pikeroaddance.com
Tutu School Montgomery 2960G Zelda Road, Montgomery, AL 36106 Firebird Tutu School, 4 days starting June 30 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. $220.00 for ages 3-8 years. A Midnight Summers Dream Tutu Camp, 5 days starting August 4 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. $275.00 Ages: 3-8 years (334) 363.3360 tutuschool.com
United Gymstars & Cheer Camp
6100 Brewbaker Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36116 June 2- July 27 and July 7-25 - 7 week Summer
beginning May 26th and ending on August 1st. Discount available if you pre-register for the entire 10 weeks. Limited spots available, first come first serve. Ages: Ages 5-10 (334) 649.8341 youraimacademy.com
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4700 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery, AL 36109 May 27-Aug 1st. $265 a week. Every day at Camp Eagle is filled with exciting activities - and LOTS of them!! Your child will be placed in age-appropriate groups and get to participate in recreational and team building activities. We would love for you to join us as we soar into a summer of fun!!
Ages: 1st-5th Grade (334) 277-1985 dsanford@alabamachristian.org acacampeagle.org
Alabama Christian Academy NEST
4700 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery, AL 36109 May 27-Aug 1st. $265 a week. We would love for you to join us as we soar into a summer of fun!! Please call for more information.
Ages: K3-K5 Grades (334) 277-1985 dsanford@alabamachristian.org acacampeagle.org
Fishing Fundamentals for ages 10-15. Gross Out Camp Sponsored by Fresh Air Family for ages 6-9.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 285.4550 alabamawildlife.org
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May 27-August 1 with 9 sessions be offered. Camp Chandler will be offering day camp Monday through Friday for eight weeks this summer for children ages 5 to 12. Hot breakfast and lunch will be provided. Day camp is perfect for first-time campers or anyone who wants to participate in some of our famous Camp Chandler activities with our fun-loving Camp Chandler staff. (334) 229.0035 www.ymcamontgomery.org
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Heritage Baptist Church, 1849 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery , AL 36106 July 14-18. A remarkable day camp experience is coming back to the River Region! Non-stop fun and active play. Bible-based teachings, and new friends for the entire family. $254 all inclusive 5 day pricing. Ages: Ages: K-8th Grade connectcamps.com/montgomery
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1550 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36106
Summer at The Montgomery Academy offers a variety of camp programs. With programs ranging from academic to athletics, coding to writing, crafts to fun and games, there is something for every child’s interest! Explore our camp offerings, schedules and register online at montgomeryacademy.org/summer and get ready for an aMAzing summer! For more information, please contact Jennie Kim Rains, Director of Auxiliary Programs and Civic Engagement at summer@montgomeryacademy.org.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 273.7170 montgomeryacademy.org/summer
Montgomery Parks and Recreation
Summer Programming
June 2-July 25. Summer Registration Event is April 5 from 10AM-1PM at Oak Park. We’ll have a ton of fun things for kids to do and free food for families to enjoy.
Ages: Ages 6-17 (334) 625.2300 funinmontgomery.com
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6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116
Color Wheel Camp:
Rising 1st - 3rd Grade, Dates: TBD
Color Wheel Camp: Rising 4th - 6th Grade, Dates: TBD
STEM Camp: Rising 2nd - 5th Grade, Dates: TBD Visit www.stjmontgomery.org for more information. (334) 277.8033 stjmontgomery.org
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Trinity Presbyterian School, 1700 East Trinity Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36106 Camp Dates and ages to be announced soon. ***more to come. Please refer to Trinity Presbyterian School website for more information at www. trinitywildcats.com/summercamps.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 213.2100 trinitywildcats.com
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Smith Branch and East Bradford Branch 600 E Main Street and 972 McQueen Smith Rd. S, Prattville , AL 36067
* Prattville YMCA Summer Day Camp, girls and boys ages 6-12. Begins May 27 – August. Mon. – Friday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Summer Day Camps are available at Daniel Pratt Elementary School, Main and Pine Level Elementary School. For more information contact the YMCA Childcare Branch at (334) 358-1446. Online registration available at prattvilleymca.org. Financial assistance available for those who qualify.
* Gymnastics and Cheer Camp, Ages 5 ½ and up. Dates to be announced. For more information call YMCA Don M. Smith Branch, 365.8852.
* Super Summer Sport Camps, Mon-Thurs, 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. YMCA Bradford Branch – 358-9622
Sports Camp Dates will be available May 1. Girls’ Volleyball Camp, Ages 8-12
Girls’ Basketball Camp, Ages 6-12
Boys’ Basketball Camp, Ages 6-12 Fishing Camp, Ages 8-16
Boys’ Baseball Camp, Ages 6-12
Girls Softball Camp, Ages 6-12 Soccer Camp, Ages 6-12
Outdoor Adventure Camp: Boys & Girls, ages 9-16. Members and Non-Members. Dates will be available May 1
* Prattville YMCA Camp 2:22 Teen Camp, rising 7th graders – rising 9th graders, girls and boys.
Begins May 27-August. Mon. – Friday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Camp 2:22 is held at the Bradford Branch on McQueen Smith Road. For more information contact the YMCA Bradford Branch at (334) 358-9622. Online registration available at prattvilleymca.org. Financial assistance available for those who qualify. Ages: Age varies by camp East Bradford Branch, (334) 358.9622 prattvilleymca.org
Alabama State University SKYCAP/ ReImagined 2025
Ralph David Abernathy Auditorium, 915 S. Jackson Street, Montgomery, AL 36104
Dates to be announced. Alabama State University’s Division of Continuing Education is bringing their Summer Youth/Kids College Adventure Program (SKYCAP) back with online and face-to-face options! SKYCAP Reimagined, a newly designed program, is a fun-filled college learning adventure for children and youth in grades 2 - 9. SKYCAP Reimagined will support students in their journey to academic and personal success. While participating in the SKYCAP Reimagined program participants will enhance their academic skills, explore natural and social sciences, focus on creative expression, learn health and physical fitness, and reinforce STEAM skills. Contact the Division of Continuing Education at 334-229-4788 for specific details on weekly camp locations, dates and times. Visit our website at www.alasucontinuinged.com for more information on our Youth Programs and ASU’s Kids Academy offerings. Ages: 1st-12th Grade (334) 229.4686 or (334) 229.4317 alasu.edu/continuingeducation
Camp Grandview — YMCA
4700 Camp Grandview Road, Millbrook, AL 36054
Dates: May 26 - August 1
Grandview Family YMCA Summer Day Camp is an action-packed outdoor experience led by highly trained and imaginative YMCA staff, located on 190 wooded acres with two beautiful lakes. As a Day Camp, our facilities are unmatched; a water park, lap pool, an airnasium, fishing pond, athletic fields, hiking trails, mud pit, disc golf, ga-ga pits, an archery range, art and game room, and a gymnasium. This camp is for children that have completed kindergarten through 10th grade. Find more at ymcamontgomery.org. Ages: Ages 5-15 (334) 290.9622 ymcamontgomery.org
Camp Sunshine for Boys
3067 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111
Ages: Ages 6-11 (334) 262.2697 tukabatcheebsa.org
Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama
3483 Springhill Avenue, Mobile, AL 36608
During June and July, we offer opportunities for Residential or Sail Away camp for every girl, whether they are a Girl Scout or not. (800) 239.6636 girlscoutssa.org
Let’s Learn Loc’s Hairstyling Summer Program
1311 E. South Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36116
June-July 2025, Monday through Friday, 9 am to 2 pm. 1wk or 2wk Program for Ages 13-16. Lunch Included. Experienced instructor and certificate of completion.
Ages: Ages 13-16 (334) 233.9780
Montgomery Zoo
2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36110 THE QUEST OF THE SUMMER! Make summer vacation a wildlife adventure that you will never forget. Join kids of similar ages and interests for a fun-packed, educational experience themed around ZOOFARI WORLD QUEST. See daily live animal presentations; get up close and personal with some of the Educational animals at the Montgomery Zoo; enjoy scavenger hunts; craft time; classroom time; playtime, train, and sky lift rides; participate in animal encounters with the giraffes, river otters, parakeets and our collection of petting zoo animals; see behind the scene tours and visits with our zookeepers, and other staff members. Camps are available for ages 5-12 years old; fullday camps. Camps and Dates:
June 2-6; 5-6 year olds
June 9-13: 5-6 year olds
June 16-20: 7-8 year olds
June 23-27: 7-8 year olds
July 7-11: 9-10 year olds
July 14-18: 9-10 year olds
July 21-25: 11-12 year olds
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 240.4900 montgomeryzoo.com
YMCA Cleveland Branch
1201 Rosa L. Parks Ave, Montgomery, AL 36108 10 weeks of Youth Specialty Camps, May 27 until August 1. Ages: Ages 3-12 (334) 265.0566 ymcamontgomery.org
YMCA East Branch
3407 Pelzer Ave, Montgomery, AL 36109 10 weeks of Youth Specialty Camps, May 27 until August 1. Ages: Ages 4-11 (334) 272.3390 ymcamontgomery.org
YMCA Goodtimes
2325 Mill Ridge Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117
May 27-August 1. Summer Goodtimes Day Camp: At the Y this summer, children ages 4 to 11 can do everything from learning how to swim improving their reading skills. Every day your child will participate in learning enrichment activities that stretch their mind, daily devotions that will teach them character through skits and songs, and health and nutrition through the daily snack and lunch program. Summer Goodtimes Day Camp will be offered at Cleveland YMCA, East YMCA, Goodtimes Center, and Wetumpka YMCA. www.ymcamontgomery.org
Ages: Ages 4-11 (334) 279-8666 ymcamontgomery.org
YMCA Montgomery Emory Folmar Soccer Complex
300 Brown Springs Road, Montgomery, AL 36117
The YMCA of Greater Montgomery is inspiring youth by teaching the fundamentals of the game of soccer. These skills will assist in the overall de-
velopment of the youth that are participating. They will learn how to pass, shoot, one-touch, throw -in, free kick, penalty kick, goal keeping, offense and defense. Participants will have comprehension of the rules and terminology of the game of soccer. Please check our website for Soccer Camp dates and details.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 396.9754 ymcamontgomery.org
YMCA Wetumpka
200 Red Eagle Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Summer Camp Dates, May 27- August 1. Please call for more information on times and fees.
Ages: Ages 5-12 (334) 567-8282 ymcamontgomery.org
YMCA Wilson
1445 New Park Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Summer Camp Dates, May 27-August 1. Please call for more information on times and fees.
Ages: Ages 5-12 (334) 356.8471 ymcamontgomery.org
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3453 Malcolm Drive (Taylor Road at Billingsley Place Promenade), Montgomery, AL 36117 Mathnasium in the Summertime Solidify foundations, improve understanding, and get ahead on next year’s concepts in a fun, low-pressure environment. Ages: 2nd-12th Grade (334) 521.8327 mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery
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6752 Taylor Circle, Montgomery, AL 36117
Read Write Learning Center is offering exciting and educational camps for rising 3rd-8th graders. Camps include: Wonder Week: An Out of This World Book Club (July 14-19); The Write Adventure: Explore, Imagine, Create (July 21-25); Camp Study Pro: Study Skills Bootcamp (July 28-31). Times are 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Cost is $195 per student.
Ages: 3rd-8th Grade (334) 328.2134 readwritelearningcenter.com
ACT Bootcamp
Cloverdale Baptist Church, 608 East Fairview Ave. Montgomery , AL 36106
June 9-13. Lee Gonet’s unique method of having students take multiple practice tests, individually rework missed problems, and then review error types in group settings improves students’ scores dramatically, increasing ACT composites from 2 to 12 points in just a week’s time. This intensive prep class is Monday through Friday, includes book, practice tests, handouts, water, snacks, and 40 hours of testing and instruction.
Ages: Ages 14 to adult (334) 524.7371 Link on website leestestprep.com
Science Matters Camp
Auburn University, 249 Sciences Center, Auburn, AL 36849
June 2-July 18. Science Matters is a summer enrichment program for elementary students of-
fering a supercharged science experience. Camp sessions broken down by 1st/2nd, 3rd/4th, 5th/6th and 7th/8th graders. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 844.5769 kristenjackson@auburn.edu auburn.edu/cosam/departments/outreach/programs
SCORE 2025
Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849
Nine 1-week camps between June 9-July 27. SCORE Summer camps are hosted by the Southeastern Center of Robotics Education at BeardEaves Memorial Coliseum. With years of experience and success with summer camps, SCORE offers an investment in your child’s future. We hire certified teachers to ensure your camper is getting the best experience while we immerse them in the robotics world. SCORE’s mission serves to inspire and prepare future generations of STEM professionals by developing and delivering student robotics programs, online robotics resources, and professional development for educators. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 844.8125 kisrael@auburn.edu scoreau.org
Sylvan Individualized Tutoring Camp
4240 Lomac Street, Montgomery, AL 36106
This summer, all families can take advantage of our special summer session pricing! Each session will be $35 (normally $45), making it easier than ever to keep your child engaged and on track during the break. This special pricing is available all summer long! Other options include: Individualized 5-week Tutoring Camp: Go back to school powered by a summer of Learning! Available dates are June 3rd through August 2nd 2-hour sessions twice a week for 5 weeks Monday through Thursday; Times: 8:30–10:30, 10:30-12:30, 1:30-3:30, 3:30-5:30; Saturday available times: 8:30-10:30 and 10:30-12:30. $150 a week. $95 Registration fee and $49 per assessment for new students.
Back to Basics 2-week Camp for K through 2nd grade: Beginning reading and phonics hands-on program for emerging readers to reinforce foundational literacy skills. Camp dates available are June 3-14, June 17-28, and July 15-26; Monday through Friday 9:30-11:30. $600 for 20 hours of fun while learning.
(334) 262.0043 CD@montgomerysylvan.com sylvanlearning.com/Montgomery
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757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984
June 1 - July 25. Short Term 1-week sessions Long Term 2-week sessions. Riverview is embraced by tall graceful pines and billowing hardwoods, nestled into a bend of Little River atop Lookout Mountain. Beautiful flower gardens grow along the pebble pathways and building entrances throughout the campground. Girls live in simple yet lovely rustic cabins with the modern conveniences necessary to make camping comfortable. Other: ACA accredited. Free video and catalog. Non-denominational Christian camp. More than 15 activity choices available, including daily horseback riding, climbing tower, pool, tennis courts and ropes course. Ages: Girls Ages 6-16 (800) 882.0722 riverviewcamp.com
MANE’s Unified Summer Camp 3699 Wallahatchie Road, Pike Road, AL 36064 4 weekly Camp sessions. Cost $250 per week.
May 27-29, June 3-5, June 17-19 and June 24-26. Riders must be between the ages of 4-12.
Ages: Ages 4-12 (334) 213.0909 maneweb.org
Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp for Girls
Lookout Mountain, 606 Valley View Ranch Road, Cloudland, GA 30731
1-1 Week session, 2 Two Week sessions and 1-3 week session offered. Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954! A’top Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls, 8-17; 600 acres, English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. CHA instructors teach beginner to advanced riders. Spend 4-6 hours daily with your OWN camp horse. The Jones family are third generation horse lovers, camp administrators, and equine educators making girls dreams come true!
Ages: Girls 8-17 (706) 862-2231 info@valleyviewranch.com valleyviewranch.com
Camp NextGen at NextGen Martial Arts
698 Old Farm Lane, Prattville, AL 36066
Dates to be announced.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 590-3759 todd@nextgenmartialarts.com nextgenmartialarts.com
Docarmo’s Summer Karate Camp
3447 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery, AL 36116
Summer Day Camp Dates: TBA
Please visit our website or call for more information. Discount offered if called during the month of March spot in camp.
Ages: Ages 6-12 (334) 220.5835 trytkdfree.com
Family Karate Center
Peppertree Shopping Center, 8159 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116
Kids Karate camp for summer program offered every day. Ages 2 years old and up.
Ages: Ages 2+ (334) 220.9319
Fleming’s Martial Arts
5521 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 Summer Camps all summer from June-July. Please call for more information. (334) 277.5425 flemingsmartialarts.net
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1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092
YMCA Camp Chandler provides youth the opportunity to build meaningful relationships, develop new skills, and create memories that last a lifetime. Campers have an opportunity to attend day or overnight camp and enjoy amazing camp activities such as Swimming, Blobbing, Horseback Riding, Canoeing, Archery, Air Rifles, Sailing, Fishing, Skiing, and so much more. Visit our camp website and explore the many summer options we have for campers ages 5-15.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 269.4362 campchandler@mcamontgomery. org campchandler.org
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757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 June 1 - July 25. Short Term 1-week sessions Long Term 2-week sessions. Riverview is embraced by tall graceful pines and billowing hardwoods, nestled into a bend of Little River atop Lookout Mountain. Beautiful flower gardens grow along the pebble pathways and building entrances throughout the campground. Girls live in simple yet lovely rustic cabins with the modern conveniences necessary to make camping comfortable. Other: ACA accredited. Free video and catalog. Non-denominational Christian camp. More than 15 activity choices available, including daily horseback riding, climbing tower, pool, tennis courts and ropes course. Ages: Girls Ages 6-16 (800) 882.0722 riverviewcamp.com
Adventure Treks
1899 Berea Church Rd, Hendersonville , NC 28739 Pacific Northwest, British Columbia, Yellowstone, California, Ultimate Northwest, Alaska, and Leadership Summit. Each 13–30 day Adventure includes a wide variety of exciting wilderness activities such as rock climbing, whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, mountain biking, canoeing, mountaineering, and backpacking in some of the most breathtaking scenery in western.
Ages: Ages 12-18 (888) 954.5555 info@adventuretreks.com adventuretreks.com
Alpine Camp for Boys
P. O. Box 297, Mentone, AL 35984
Call for CD-ROM with video; Junior Camp: (Grades 1-5) May 24-31; (Grades 2-9) First Term: June 2-27; (Grades 2-9) Second Term: June 30-July 25. Ages: Age varies by camp (256) 634.4404 summer@alpinecamp.com alpinecamp.com
Camp Alamisco
1771 Camp Alamisco, Dadeville, AL 36853 Aquatics Camp, June 8-15, ages 13-16 Adventure Camp, June 8-15, ages 7-9. Junior Camp, June 15-22, ages 10-12. Teen Camp, June 22-29, ages 13-16.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 272.7493 Alamiscocamp@gmail.com campalamisco.org
Camp Coleman
4010 Camp Coleman Rd, Camp Coleman, AL 35173
Various camps offered between June 9-20. Please visit our website for Camp themes and dates.
Ages: Age varies by camp (256) 365.2970 or (800) 734.4541 ultracamp.com
Camp Cosby - Birmingham YMCA
2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road, Alpine, AL 35014
Eight different sessions ranging in many different age groups. Camp dates begin on Sunday, June 1 -July 25. Ages 6-16. Ages: Ages 6-16 (800) 852.6729 cinfo@campcosby.org campcosby.ymcabham.org
Camp Hollymont for Girls
339 Nacoochee Drive, Rabun Gap, GA 30568 Length: 6,13, 20 or 27 days; Camps Dates begin June 15-July 25. Ages: Ages 7-15, Girls (828) 686.5343 4info@hollymont.com hollymont.com
Camp Juliette Low
321 Camp Juliette Low Rd, Cloudland, GA 30731 Dates: June 1-July 27; Length: 1, 2, & 3 weeks; Girls only. Ages: Ages 7-17, Girls (770) 862.2169 info@cjl.org cjl.org
Camp Kiwanis
2365 Camp Kiwanis Road, Eclectic, AL 36024 4 Sessions available: June 8-13, June 8-20, June 15-20, June 22-27 Ages: 2nd-12th Grade (800) 239.6636 Link on website girlscoutssa.org
Camp Laney
916 West River Road, Mentone, AL 35984
Four 2-Week sessions. Sessions begin June 1-July 25 Ages: Ages 7-15, Boys (256) 634.4066 info@camplaney.com camplaney.com
Camp Mac Summer Camp for Boys and Girls
2671 Cheaha Road, Munford, AL 36268
6 Day Mini Terms, Grades 1st-4th grade; 11 day Junior Terms, Grades 2nd-6th grade; Senior Terms, 3rd-8th Grade. Camp Sessions: June 2-August 2 Ages: 1st-8th Grade (256) 362.7449 office@campmac.com campmac.com
Camp Marannook
10425 Veterans Memorial Pkwy., Lafayette, AL 36862 May 27-July 23; Residential and Day Camps. From sunrise to after sunset, every camp day is packed with fun. Campers will swim, shoot archery, make crafts, eat s’mores around the campfire, and play games on the game field. They explore a huge maze, ride the cable car and crazy swing and are challenged by various rope and climbing activities. And there is a one-ofa-kind Bible Time with skits and drama. When the campers arrive, the counselors are ready to
build relationships and to share the love of Christ through these relationships.
Ages: 1st-10th Grade (334) 864.7504 marannook.org
Camp Merri Mac
1123 Montreat Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711 June 2-August 7; Length:1 (starter camp for first time campers), 2 & 4 week sessions. Ages: Grades 1st-11th, Girls (828) 669.8766 mail@merri-mac.com merri-mac.com
Camp Scoutshire Woods, Girl Scout Camp 6051 Scoutshire Camp, Citronelle, AL 36522 Summer sessions available. June 29-July 3
Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 239.6636 girlscoutssa.org
Camp Sea Gull and Camp Seafarer 218 Sea Gull Landing, Arapahoe, NC 28510 June 8-August 8; Length: 1, 2, & 4 week session. Ages: Ages 6-16 (252) 249.1111 or (252) 249.1212 seagull-seafarer.org
Camp Skyline Ranch 4888 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, AL 35984 June 1-July 25. Four 2-wk. sessions; Three 1 wk. Sessions. Ages: Ages 6-16, Girls (800) 448.9279 info@campskyline.com campskyline.com
Camp Stanislaus
304 South Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis, MS 39520 Dates: June 9-July 18; Length: 1, 2, 3 and 4 week sessions. Ages: Ages 8-15, Boys (228) 467.9057 camp@ststan.com campstanislaus.com
Camp Timberlake
1123 Montreat Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711 June 2-August 7; Length:1 (starter camp for first time campers), 2, 3, 4, & 5 weeks. Ages: Grades 1st-11th, Boys (828) 669.8766 info@camptimberlake.com camptimberlake.com
Camp Trico
315 Trico Drive, Guntersville, AL 35967
Camp Sessions: July 7-11 Ages: Ages 6-16 (800) 734.4541 girlscoutsnca.org
Camp Victory
363 Victory Circle, Samson, AL 36477
Weekly sessions beginning, June 2 – July 25; coed camp. Air conditioned cabins. Activities include Giant Swing, Zipline, Swimming Pool, Volleyball, Bunker Ball, Riflery & Archery, Tetherball, Mini Golf, Canoes, Kayaks, Pedal Boats, Basketball, Crafts, Carpetball, Ping Pong, Foosball, Fishing, Low Ropes Challenge Course, Indoor Climbing Wall, Bible Classes, Outdoor Education, Missionary Presentations, Chapel Services and Cabin Devotions; Trained Christian staff who live in cabins with campers; evening chapel. Affiliated with the Children’s Bible Mission. Ages: 2nd-12th Grade (334) 898.7948 office@campvictoryal.org campvictoryal.org
Camp Walkabout
171 Baylor School Road, Chattanooga, TN 37405
Camp Walkabout begins May 27--July 18, Discoverers (Ages 8-11), Adventurers (Ages 12-13) and Expeditioners(Ages 14-16). Ages: Ages 8-16 (423) 267.8506, Ext. 827 admission@baylorschool.org baylorschool.org
Camp Widjiwagan
3088 Smith Springs Road, Antioch, TN 37013
Dates: May 25-August 1: Ten sessions.
Summer Camp for Boys and Girls. Ages: Ages 6-15 (615) 360.2267 campwidji.org
Camp Woodmont
381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, GA 30731
Dates: June 1-July 25: Eight one-week sessions and Four 2-week sessions. Summer Camp for Boys and Girls. Ages: Ages 6-14 (706) 398.0739 campwoodmont.com
Cub Camp
3067 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111
Session 1: June 14-15 Ages: Grades 1st-5th (800) 977.2688 tukabatcheebsa.org
Cub Scout Webelos Resident Camp, Camp Hobbs
3067 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111
Session 1: June 26-29
Ages: Grades 1st-5th (800) 977.2688 tukabatcheebsa.org
Experiment in International Living
1015 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
July 1-August 1. Must have completed 9th grade. 3, 4 or 5-week programs. Foreign language studies a prerequisite for most sessions.
Ages: 10th-12th Grade (800) 345.2929 experiment.org
Falling Creek Camp for Boys P.O. Box 98, Tuxedo, NC 28784
1 week sessions to 4 week sessions
Camp Dates: June 8-August 15. Ages: 1st-11th Grade, Boys (828) 692.0262 fallingcreek.com
Lake Forest Ranch
5326 Lake Forest Road, Macon, MS 39341
Sessions beginning June 1 through July 28. Summer camp experience for children (ages 7-12) and teenagers (ages 11-18). There are ten exciting camp sessions available from which to choose. Ages: Age varies by camp (662) 726.5052 info@lakeforestranch.com lakeforestranch.com
Leadership Training Program for 11th and 12th graders. Ages: Age varies by camp (256) 634.4397 ponderosabiblecamp.com
Rising Star, Savannah College of Art & Design
P.O. Box 2072, Savannah, GA 31402
June 29-July 25. Open to students who completed junior year of high school. Ages: Rising 12th Grade (800) 869.7223 and Atlanta, GA; (877) 722.3285 contact@scad.edu scad.edu/risingstar
Sail Caribbean
256 Main Street, STE# 1203, Northport, NY 11768
Camp ASCCA-Easter Seals
Camp ASCCA, 5278 Camp ASCCA Drive , Jackson Gap, AL 36861
Six 1-week sessions. Ages 6 and up. Camps dates will be June 15-August 1.
Ages: Age varies by camp (256) 825.9226 info@campascca.org campascca.org
Camp Seale Harris
Camp ASCCA, 5278 Camp ASCCA Drive, Jackson Gap, AL 36861
May 28-August 17. Length: Programs range from 14 to 36 days. Ages: 11-18+ (800) 321.0994 bvi_office1@sailcaribbean.com sailcaribbean.com
Scouts BSA Summer Camp
McWane Science Center Summer Camp
200 19th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35203 June 2-August 1st: Students entering 1st through 7th grade will be full day camps. Pre K-Kindergarten will remain half day camps. Ages: Age varies by camp (205) 714.8300 mcwane.org
Moondance Adventures
209 10th Ave. S, Ste. 322, Nashville, TN 37203
Dates: June 3-July 30; Length: 7, 14, 17, 21, and 23 days. Ages: Ages 12-18 (800) 832.5229 info@moondanceadeventures.com moondanceadventures.com
North Carolina Outward Bound
2582 Riceville Road, Asheville, NC 28805 Year Round Programs; Length: 4-78 days; Ages: Ages 14+ (888) 756.2627 challenge@ncobs.org ncoutwardbound.com
Ponderosa Bible Camp
1018 County Road, Mentone, AL 35984
Dates:June 8-July 11 Length: One week; and
Camp Tuckabatchee, 2109 County Road 59, Prattville, AL 36067
June 15-June 21 (334) 262.2697 tukabatcheebsa.org
Twin Lakes Camp
155 Milner Road, Florence, MS 39073
Eight one-week sessions from June 2-July 18. Ages: Ages 6-12 (601) 845.6858 twinlakescamp.org
U.S. Space Camp and Aviation Challenge
One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805
Dates: Runs year round; Summer Program is May -August, call for pricing.
Ages: Ages 9 and up (800) 637.7223 spacecamp.com
YMCA Camp Ocoee
111 YMCA Drive, Ocoee, TN 37361
June 1-July 26. Ages: Ranger 7-15; Teen Leadership and Specialty Camps, 16-17. A ges: Age varies by camp (423) 338.5588 ocoee@ix.netcom.com campocoee.com
Junior Camp (ages 6 - 13), June 8-13; Senior Camp (ages 12 - 18),June 1-6; Coastal Camp (ages 10-18), July 20-25. Ages: Age varies by camp (205) 402.0415 info@campsealeharris.org campsealeharris.org
Montgomery Soccer Futsal ad on page 17
5334 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL 36117
Brazilian Soccer Futsal Indoor Camps (indoor/air conditioned) Coach
Bruno (Former pro & College coach - Masters Phy. Ed.) Camp Dates: TBA, please check back on our website for dates.
Ages: Ages 7-13 (334) 498.4625 registrar@fcmontgomery.com fcmontgomery.com
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15396 Vaughn Road, Cecil, AL 36013 Sports Camps, Dates and Times to be announced.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 277.6566 maconeast.net
Preparatory
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5350 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116
Baseball-TBA Wrestling-TBA Soccer-TBA Basketbal-TBA Volleyball-TBA Softball-TBA Tennis-TBA Football-TBA Cheer-TBA
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 272.7221 montgomerycatholic.org
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Tennis
500 Anderson Street, Montgomery, AL 36107
Summer Camps: Monday - Thursday
Age 4-6; 9:00-10:00 AM $60 per week, $15 per day drop in. Age 7-16; 9-11 a.m. $120 per week, $30 per day drop in. Dates: June 2-5, 9-12, 16-19, 23-26 July 7-10, 14-17, 21-24 & 28-31
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 240.4884 bbradshaw10s@gmail.com oconnortenniscenter.com
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6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116
Saint James School will continue its summer tradition of providing a variety of sports and cheerleader camps for young athletes. Printed information will be available soon and will include cost, age groups, and other pertinent information. See www. stjmontgomery.org more more details.
Softball: June 2025 Baseball: June 2025
Girls Basketball: June 2025
Girls Soccer: June 2025 Boys Soccer: June 2025
Boys Basketball: Beginners Camp & Elite Camp: June 2025
Wrestling: July 2025 Volleyball: July 2025
Football: July 14-18 Cheer: July 21-24
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 277.8033, ext. 145 stjmontgomery.org
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1700 E. Trinity Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36106 Baseball Camp, TBD; K -6th grade
Lady Wildcats Basketball; Dates TBD / 2nd-5th grade Basketball Camp (boys): Dates TBD/ 3rd-8th grade Dance Camp, TBD/ K3-5th grade Cheer Camp, TBD/ K3-5th grade
Softball Camp: Date TBD/ 1st-8th grade Football Camp, Dates: TBD ***more to come
Please refer to Trinity Presbyterian School website for more information at www.trinitywildcats.com/ summercamps.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 213.2100 trinitywildcats.com
Alabama Christian Academy Basketball Camp
4700 Wares ferry Road, Montgomery, AL 36109
Dates: TBA; Please call for more information. (334) 277.1985 alabamachristian.org
Auburn Tiger Football Camps
Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849
High School Elite Camp : June 1 and 8; High School 7 on 7 Camp: June 12 and 13; Highschool OL/DL: June 8; Tigers Youth Camp (Gr. 3rd-8th): June 4, 5 & 6
Please check our website for details.
Ages: Grades 3rd-12th, Age varies by camp auburnfootballcamps.com
Auburn Tiger Junior Golf Camp
Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849
June 9-12; This camp will benefit all skill levels from beginner to advanced. Ages: Ages 9-18 (334) 844.9657 auburntigergolfcamps.com
Auburn Tiger Softball Camp
Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849
Dates to be decided Ages: Ages 12-19 (334) 844.9515 auburntigers.com
Showcase Camp, TBA.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 844.4975 auburntigersbaseballcamp.com
Auburn Volleyball Camp
Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849
Elite Camp 1, June 6; Elite Camp II, June 12; Team Camp and Tournament, July 19-20; All Skills Camp, July 21-22
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 844.9637 auburntigers.com
Auburn Women’s Soccer Camps
Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849
June ID Camp: TBA; June Day Camp: TBA ; Auburn Soccer Goalkeeper Academy: TBA; Skills Academy: TBA; July Day Camp: TBA; July Elite ID Camp: TBA and July ID Camp: TBA Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 844.9637 auburnsoccercamps.com
AUM Sports Camps
7400 East Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117
Dates to be announced in the spring. Please check our website for Camp information. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 244.3000 aumathletics.com
Faulkner University Baseball Camp
Faulkner University, 5345 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery, AL 36109
Auburn Tiger Swim Camp
Auburn University, Auburn, AL 26849
Technique/Training Camp: May 28-31 and June 8-12; Starts/Turns Camp: June 13-15 . Please visit our website for more details.
Ages: Ages 10-18 auswimcamps@gmail.com auburnwareagleswimcamps.com
Auburn University Baseball Camps
Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849
Team Camp, TBA; Pitcher/Catching/Infield Camp, TBA; Youth Camp, (ages 7-12) TBA; High school
Whether you are a youth player looking to receive top instruction from a college coach, or you are a high school player hoping to hone your skills to reach the next level, we have something to offer you! All players must bring their own baseball equipment including sneakers/turf shoes in case of inclement weather. Youth Session I: TBD; Youth Session II: TBD; Morning Youth Fundamentals Session III: TBD (334) 386.7980 pmmccarthy@faulkner.edu faulknerbaseballcamps.com
Goldfish Swim School Montgomery, AL 36117
Register for our Jump Start Clinics! They are a great and easy way to get children ready to swim or progress toward their next swim level. Weekly this summer: 5 consecutive 30-minute lessons. Same time, same instructor. (334) 373.1690 goldfishswimschool.com
Huntingdon College Baseball Camps
1500 East Fairview Ave., Montgomery, AL 36106
High School Showcase Skills Camp, Grades 9-12, May 17; Summer Kids Camp 1, TBA; Summer Kids Camp II, TBA Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 833.4501 huntingdonhawks.com
Huntingdon College Basketball Camps
1500 East Fairview Ave., Montgomery, AL 36106
Elite Camp, June 1 for grades 9th-12th.
Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 833.4399 huntingdonhawks.com
Huntingdon College Soccer I.D. Camp
1500 East Fairview Ave., Montgomery, AL 36106
Soccer I.D. Camp (Grades 9th-12th): Dates to be announced.
Ages: Grades 9th-12th (334) 833.4316 hchawkssoccercamps.com
Huntingdon College Summer Youth Academy for Soccer
1500 East Fairview Ave., Montgomery, AL 36106
Summer Youth Academy (Ages 5-13): Dates to be announced. Ages: Ages 5-13 (334) 833-4316 hchawkssoccercamps.com
McCallie Sports Camp
500 Dodds Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37404
Length: Three 2-week sessions
MSC Session I: Monday, June 9-21; MSC Session II: Monday, June 23 - July 5; MSC Session III: Monday, July 7-19. Ages: Ages 9-15 (800) 672.2267 mccallie.org
University of Alabama Baseball Camp
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Summer Youth Camp I, June 16-20 for grades K-8th; Elite Camp, July 13-15 for grades 7th -College Junior; Super Select Prospect Camp, July 17 for Grades 8th - College Sophmore; Summer Youth Camp II, July 28-August 1 for grades K-8th; Prospect Camp, August 16-17 for grades 7th - College Junior. Ages: Age varies by camp (205) 348.8849 rolltide.com
University of Alabama Football Camp
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
The University of Alabama has a wide selection of Football camps during the months of June and July. Age ranges for these camps are K12th grade. Ages: Age varies by camp (205) 348.0808 rolltide.com
University of Alabama Men’s Basketball Camp
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487
The University of Alabama has a wide selection of Basketball Camps. June 4-July 24.. Please visit our website for more details.
Ages: Age varies by camp (205) 348.4111 rolltide.com
University of Alabama Men’s Golf Camp
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Summer Camp I, June 2-4 for ages 10-18; Elite Exposure Camp, June 6-7 for Grades 9-11th; Summer Camp II, June 9-11 for ages 10-18. Ages: Ages 10-18 (662) 418.4442 rolltide.com
University of Alabama Soccer Camp
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Jspring I.D., March 15-16; Junior Elite Camp, July 17-20; BAMA Goal Keeping Academy, July 17-20 and HS Elite ID Camp, July 17-20. Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 933.BAMA rolltide.com
University of Alabama Softball Camp
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Two Summer Camp Sessions: Dates to be announced. Camp will cover all defensive positions.
Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 933.BAMA alabamasoftballcamp.com
University of Alabama Women’s Basketball Camp
University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 June 9-11. Camp is open to any and all entrants and only limited by number, age, grade level and/or gender. Ages: Grades 9th-12th (205) 348.6164 rolltide.com rrp
Why Wait Until Summer? Check Out These Spring Break Camps!
Camp Chandler Spring Fling Camp ad on page 21
1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 March 21-23 Ages: Ages 5-14 (334) 229.0035 ymcamontgomery.org
Expedition Lanark Spring Break Camp ad on page 27
3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook, AL 36054
ANC Spring Break Camp: March 24-28, 8:00 am- 3:30 pm (early drop-off & aftercare available). Don’t miss out on the river region’s most unique outdoor camp! Spring is just around the corner and so is our Expedition Lanark Spring Break Camp! We always have lots of fun activities planned and with our NaturePlex facility we are prepared to have fun in any type of weather! Some activities include fishing, canoeing, birding with binoculars, track casting and even dissecting owl pellets! We will get hands on with some of our educational animals such as our baby alligator, eastern indigo snake, and gopher tortoise during our animal encounters!
AGES: 6-12 | COST: $145.00/week
Aftercare available for $25.00/week (7:30am-8:00am drop-off & 4:00pm-6:00pm pick-up)
Other News: Campers need to bring their own lunch and drink. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase. Campers will mostly be outside so please dress appropriately and bring a change of clothes and shoes. Children will get dirty and might get wet too! (334) 285.4550 awf@alabamawildlife.org alabamawildlife.org
FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal ad on page 17
Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36117
March 17-28. Most Advanced Youth Development Methodology Worldwide! Come improve your technique and have fun the Brazilian way! Sign up now! Space is limited! All ages (334) 498.4625 registrar@fcmontgomery.com fcmontgomery.com
Family Karate Center Spring Break Camp
Peppertree Shopping Center, 8159 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36117
Through the months of March and April. Please call for Camp rates for non-members. The camp will teach Stranger Danger Child Abduction Prevention and Awareness Programs, The Ask Mom First Program (Child Molestation Prevention), “I am not a target” Bully Busters program and tips to teach children about lures child abductors use. Also included will be beginning and advanced karate skills and drills, relay races, Samurai Pool Noodle Challenge, Karate Freeze Tag, Ninja Dodge Frisbee, Power Ranger Relay Race, and many other fun games that make children test their coordination and balancing skills. Ages: 2 years and up. Call (334) 220.9319 for more information.
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Wine & Design, 7732 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery, AL 36117
March 17-20 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Ages 6-12
Get ready for an unforgettable journey around the globe at Passport to Art! This exciting camp is all about discovering the world’s rich diversity through crafts, painting, and hands-on creativity. Ages: 6-12 years (334) 245.3387 montgomeryal@wineanddesign.com wineanddesign.com
Spring Break Art with Barb Grimes at Nancy’s Ice
March 17, 18 & 19. $15 each class per child Ages: 3 years and up (334) 546.2233 barb2shop@yahoo.com
United Gymstars and Cheer
6100 Brewbaker Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36116
March 24-28; 7:30-5:30 p.m. Please bring a snack and a lunch. Ages: 5-12 years (334) 284.2244 gym@unitedgymstarsandcheer.com unitedgymstarsandcheer.com
YMCA Branches and Goodtimes Center March 24-28, Goodtimes, East Y, Grandview Y, Wetumpka. Ages: Varies by camp Visit us at ymcamontgomery.org for all the dates and details.
There are so many great reasons why you should consider sending your kids to sleepaway camp this summer, and it’s not only because they’ll have a whole lot of fun. Based on my experiences as the parent of a teenager who loves summer camp as well as conversations with other parents, I’ve learned that sleepaway camp can be character-building.
For most kids, sleepaway camp is the first time they get to experience real independence. They’re away from their parents and other adult family members for an extended period of time, and they’ve got to quickly learn how to take care of themselves, from getting themselves ready in the morning to choosing their daily activities. Of course, there are counselors who are responsible for the overall welfare of the kids, but unlike teachers who tell kids what to do, camp counselors act much more like older brothers and sisters who’re on a joint adventure with the kids. I’ll never forget the first time my spouse and I picked up our son from sleepaway camp. He acted like a completely different person than the one we’d left behind only a few short weeks earlier: independent, mature, and with a confident, knowing demeanor.
Sleepaway teaches kids how to become better organized. From the moment they wake up in the morning to the moment they go to sleep at night, they have to make many choices that require them to learn how to organize themselves and their time. For example, in the morning they’re supposed to wake up, get dressed, brush their teeth, make their beds, and walk to the dining hall at the same time and together with all the other kids they’re bunking with. But unlike in school where teachers tell kids exactly what to do and when, camp counselors expect that kids figure it out themselves. And that includes not forgetting to put their dirty clothes in the hamper on laundry day.
Not every kid easily adjusts to being away from their parents for a long period of time, and not every kid easily makes new friends. If there’s one area where camp counselors do actively step in it’s when someone is homesick or just not happy. Camp counselors show kids how to treat others with compassion, care, and respect. Many camps also have a buddy system where kids are teamed up to support another and do fun things together.
Kids also learn some very valuable lessons about comradery. Camps often let parents request that their kids bunk with friends from home. Yet, they’ll also bunk with many other kids, often from different states and countries. This will teach them how to get along with and enjoy the company of kids with very different backgrounds than their own. Most camps are aware of this and organize activities aimed at creating a strong sense of comradery and community, including evening camp fires, sing-a-longs, and the ever-popular Camp Olympics.
Sometimes, despite camp counselors’ best efforts, conflicts do occur over who bunks together, who sits next to whom at meal times, and who plays with whom. After all, kids often live in cramped quarters at camp, with unfamiliar roommates. But that’s not such a bad thing: one of the most important skills kids learn at sleepaway camp is how to solve interpersonal conflicts on their own. Camp counselors certainly step in to solve serious conflicts. But they’ll typically let the kids solve the small ones on their own. And this is a great skill kids bring home with them and use long after the camp is over.
Paddington in Peru
Theaters
Everyone’s favorite bear is back! When the Home for Retired Bears informs Paddington that his aunt has gone missing, he brings the Brown family along on a visit to the Peruvian jungle. A wild trip down the Amazon follows, with unexpected results. The movie is kid-friendly, with a whimsical tone, minor plot and a cast that is clearly having a blast. Parents might miss the greater charm of the original films, but sequel blig ht isn’t exactly a surprise. Just because this film isn’t great doesn’t mean it’s bad. Photo ©Sony Pictures Releasing
Assuming his new role as Captain America, Sam Wilson faces a critical challenge: President Thaddeus Ross is under threat and has barely escaped an assassination attempt. But when Sam’s old friend, Isaiah, is suspected in the plot, Sam are going to be tested. Like every other Marvel superhero flick, this one ticks all the same boxes – overly frequent, highly digitized fight scenes; plenty of civic destruction, minor profanity and drinking. What’s missing is an original plot keep viewers engaged for the entire runtime
The city is under threat from supervillain Petey the Cat and only one hero can save them. Dog Man is an unlikely hybrid, fused together when an injured police officer and his dog undergo a life-saving surgery. Now Dog Man must use his unusual combination of skills and traits to bring the feline felon to heel. series by Dav Pilkey, this film features his quirky wit, some potty humor (less than expected), and plenty of wholesome messages. Best of all, it’s laugh -out -loud funny for viewers of all ages.
Orphaned, abandoned by his grandparents, and living in his car, Nathan Williams struggles to get enough to eat. When he’s arrested for stealing electronics, his teacher, Stan Deen, takes him in, determined to help Nate graduate from high school. Nate is grateful, but the demons of his past are hard to escape…This is a heartening film about an inspiring teacher: the negative content is all in service of the plot and none of it is grat uitous. This is a film that encourages empathy, compassion, and kindness an d it’s worth watching Photo ©Angel Studios
Burdened by debt and facing foreclosure of the family’s Wisconsin dairy farm, Buck refuses to give up, placing a Super Bowl bet on his favorite team, the Green Bay Packers. But his decisions don’t just affect him – granddaughter Jenny is also committed to the farm, but her musical dreams might make or break it . The film’s ending feels contrived but the rest of the story delivers earnest authenticity and a harrowing examination of the economic forces that batter America’s farmers. There’s plenty to think about here. Photo ©Fathom Events
Q. My wife and I both have good jobs. Together, we bring home around $190,000 combined. We also have $100,000 in a savings account, and no debt except for our mortgage. A couple of weeks ago, I was contacted about an opportunity to take a job in commercial real estate in my hometown. To be honest, this kind of work has been a dream of mine for several years. The problem is my wife is upset by the idea of moving. She says it’s because she doesn’t want to be even further away from her family, but it seems like something else is bothering her. Do you have any advice?
A. Anytime you’re in a relationship and something like this happens, it’s a little like
making a sale in that you’ve got to dig out the real reason for the objection. It could very well be that she doesn’t want to be further away from her family, and that’s natural—to an extent. But like you said, there could be other factors involved. There might be something in your past that bothers her, or something she doesn’t want you to revisit. There may even be feelings of discomfort with your family for things that have happened or
been said. It could also be the insecurity that goes along with a move, a new home and a new job. I don’t know how far away you’re talking about moving,
but it could also be she’s worried about leaving her job.
From a relationship standpoint, you two each need to lay your cards on the table and be honest with each other. Open up, and really talk about it. Otherwise, it’s going to become a sore spot and cause even more problems. Part of marriage is making compromises. Sometimes compromises must be made by one, or both, people in order to do what’s best for the relationship in the present and in the long run.
It could be that you just need an impartial referee. Would you both be will ing to attend a few sessions with a good pastor or marriage counselor together? Talking to either one doesn’t mean your marriage is on the rocks, but sometimes a compassionate and objective third party can help dig down below the surface to uncover issues and help find a reasonable solution to problems.
I hope this helps. God bless you both.
Saturday, March 1
Wetumpka Mardi Gras Parade
Downtown Wetumpka Welcome to the home of the River Region’s largest and best Mardi Gras parade and festival! The 2020 parade had over 15,000 people in attendance and over 200 parade participants and vendors! The Order of Cimarrón hosts this community event in the beautiful city of Wetumpka, Alabama each year. Come join the excitement and be a part of a fun family friendly parade and celebration. https://wetumpkamardigras.com/
March 1-2
Montgomery Zoo Weekend
Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum
This fun-filled event at the Montgomery Zoo has been going on for generations and loved by all ages. The weekend will be filled with great music, two stages of live entertainment, animal presentations and encounters, games, prizes, rides, tons of yummy concessions, and fun, fun, fun!
https://www.montgomeryzoo.com/home-zoo
March 2-4
Hope Always Presents Dr. Matthew Sleeth
How to be a force for life in a culture of suicide. Join us for lunch and hear from a renown doctor, leader, author and speaker Dr. Matthew Sleeth. 334-386-1749 montgomerychristianschool.org https://www.matthewsleethmd.org
Tuesday, March 4
Alton Brown Live
7:30 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center Alton Brown Live: Last Bite, the famed foodist reflects on his decades in food media, presents several of his favorite culinary mega-hacks, sings some of his funny food songs, and in general offers a culinary variety show the likes of which human eyes have never seen. https://mpaconline.org/alton-brown-live/
Thursday, March 6
Meet Me: Beck’s Self-Portrait (This program is free and open to the public.) 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Discover Rick Beck’s unique Self-Portrait. Meet us in the glass galleries for a captivating 30-minute talk where we explore unique elements of this work of art. https://mmfa.org/event/meet-me-becks-self-portrait/
Friday, March 7
Alabama Dance Theatre to Premiere Enchanting New Ballet: Snow White 7:00 PM Troy University’s Davis Theater The Alabama Dance Theatre (ADT) is thrilled to announce the world premiere of Snow White, an original ballet choreographed by Sara Elyse Sanford, at Troy University’s Davis Theatre on March 7 at 7:00 pm, March 8 at 2:00 pm* and March 9 at 2:00 pm. This captivating new production brings to life the beloved Grimms’ Fairy Tale with a fresh, inventive twist.
Performance tickets are $15-$30. Tickets are on sale now. Tickets are available at www.alabamadancetheatre.com. For more information call 334-625-2590. *After the matinee performance on Saturday, March 8th, children are invited onstage to a “Party” to meet Snow White and other characters at an additional charge of $10 per child (costumes welcome). www.alabamadancetheatre.com
March 7-9
Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Snow White Troy University’s Davis Theater Join us for this breathtaking journey as Alabama Dance Theatre brings the beloved story of “Snow White” to life through innovative choreography, dazzling costumes, and a spellbinding musical score. Don’t miss the opportunity to witness this fresh interpretation of a classic tale, where every movement tells a story of courage, love, and the triumph of good over evil. https://ci.ovationtix.com/35544/production/1219182
Montgomery Half Marathon
7:00 AM, 200 Coosa Street, Montgomery , AL 36104 The Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Montgomery Half Marathon, presented by Mongomery Multisport and the Enlisted Heritage 5K, will take runners through the heart of Alabama’s capital city. The route unfolds through several of the city’s historic sites and districts and brings runners past the state capitol building in the home stretch. Both races start in front of the water tower on Tallapoosa Street and end at Riverwalk Stadium.
https://2025montgomeryhalfmarathon.itsyourrace. com/register/
Saturday, March 8
ASF’s Acting Academy’s Spring Day of Play (Fee: $25) 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Alabama Shakespeare Festival Alabama Shakespeare Festival Grades K – 2 (ages 5 – 8 ONLY). Registration closes at 4:00 p.m. on Friday, Mar. 7, 2025. Get ready to ACTivate your curiosity and imagination with a whole day dedicated to creative play! Our youngest rising stars will have fun releasing their wiggles, bringing a short storybook to life from page to stage, and channeling their inner artist with fun craft activities. Our Spring Day of Play is great preparation for future ASF classes and camps. Snacks and drinks will be provided. https://asf.net/education/acting-academy/
The Fab Four: USA Meets the Beatles 7:30 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center If you want to experience the best Beatles tribute ever, you won’t want to miss The Fab Four-The Ultimate Tribute. The 2025 tour brings their all-new show to the stage, celebrating The Beatles’ first visit to the USA, with performances from the Ed Sullivan show and the Meet The Beatles album, as well as the Beatles’ greatest hits of every era. The Emmy Award Winning Fab Four is elevated far above every other Beatles Tribute due to their precise attention to detail. With uncanny, note-for-note live renditions of Beatles’ classics such as “Can’t Buy Me Love,” “Yesterday,” “A Day In The Life,” “Twist And Shout,” “Here Comes The Sun,” and “Hey Jude”, the Fab Four will make you think you are watching the real thing. Their incredible stage performances include
three costume changes representing every era of the Beatles ever-changing career. https://www.ticketmaster.com/
Tuesday, March 11
Art Ed Central
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Connect and learn new techniques with fellow educators and artists at this monthly
workshop. Our March workshop will feature guest speaker local artist Tiiwon Siaway. Participants will show how they glow through a lesson on how to create portraits using neon and glow in the dark colors. https://mmfa.org/event/art-ed-central-19/
Wednesday, March 12
State Ballet of Ukraine Presents The Sleeping Beauty
7:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center Experience the most famous love story of all time! Sleeping Beauty, on its North American Tour in 2024-25. With a completely new choreography and production by Andrei Litvinov, the classical score by Tchaikovsky comes to life in this performance by The State Ballet Theater of Ukraine. The performance features a ballet troupe of 50 dancers, and over 200 exclusive costumes were created especially for this production.
https://www.ticketmaster.com/event
Thursday, March 13
CentrAL INC! March 2025 Launch Party
4:30 PM - 6:00 PM, Jerry’s Juke Joint Join us in celebrating the release of our new issue and honoring the exceptional talent of our 2025 40 Under 40 honorees! Get ready to be inspired as we gather to recognize the brightest young professionals shaping the future of our community.
https://centralincmarch2025launch.rsvpify.com
Thursday, March 13
Martin Media Presents Whose Live Anyway?
7:30 M Montgomery Performing Arts Center The current cast members of the Emmy-nominated TV show Whose Line Is It Anyway? are proud to present their new improv tour: WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY?, appearing live in concert at MPAC on Thursday, March 13. Audience participation is key to the show, so bring your suggestions and you might be asked to join the cast onstage!
https://www.ticketmaster.com
March 14-15
Montgomery Smooth Jazz Fest
Riverwalk Amphitheater The Montgomery Smooth Jazz Festival celebrates various music genres with an emphasis on Smooth Jazz and R & B. Now in our 3rd year, The Montgomery Smooth Jazz Festival will provide two days of outstanding performances for national jazz and R & B artists. Our main stage at the Riverfront Amphitheater will feature live performances accentuated with large video screens including a specially designed interactive screen allowing the artists to stylishly operate harmoniously with the music. We are offering music lovers top notch entertainment with the world’s best artists, in a unique setting along the Alabama River, resulting in the type of musical experience that you can’t find anywhere else.
https://www.montgomerysmoothjazzfestival.org/
March 14-16
SLE Rodeo
Garrett Coliseum The 2025 SLE Rodeo will be held at Montgomery’s Garrett Coliseum on March 14th thru 16th 2025. The Rodeo coming to town means more than just buckin’ broncos, barrel racing and burly bulls. It means FUN for the ENTIRE FAMILY! The 2025 rodeo is packed with events sure to please audiences of all ages. Whether it’s the parade downtown, the Stick Horse Rodeo prior to the main event, or the Western Festival; there is something everyone can enjoy. Come on out and get your COWBOY ON!
https://www.slerodeo.com/
Saturday, March 15
Selma to Montgomery Relay & Bike Ride
6:30 AM Starts in Selma and ends at the capitol in Montgomery The Civil Rights Race Series will be hosting the Selma to Montgomery 51-Mile Relay Race and Bike Ride to commemorate the 1965 worldrenowned march led by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The race will start in Selma, Alabama, and end at the state capitol in Montgomery, Alabama. https://www.selmatomontgomeryrelay.com/
Lucky Ducky Spring Season Kickoff 10:00 AM Montgomery Whitewater Montgomery Whitewater is kicking off spring with pre-St. Patrick’s Day shenanigans! Races and activities
will fill the day as we celebrate the arrival of paddling season! 10:00 am Lil’ Tri Triathlon 11:00 am, Water Release 3:30 pm, Ducky X 4:00 pm, 2nd Annual Lucky Ducky Float Race. Live Music, Rafting, Kayaking, Ropes Course, Good Food, & Cold Drinks! Find out more, register for a race, or book your adventure on our website event page. https://montgomerywhitewater.com/upcomingevents/lucky-ducky/
Meet Me: Hopper’s New York Office (This program is free and open to the public. ) 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Discover Edward Hopper’s New York Office. Meet us in the galleries for a captivating 30-minute talk where we explore this painting by American painter, Edward Hopper. mmfa.org/event/meet-me-hoppers-new-york-office/
March 21-23
Pan American Canoe Slalom & Kayak Cross Championships
Montgomery Whitewater Experience the thrill of elite water sports as the 2025 Pan American Canoe Slalom & Kayak Cross Championships come to life! This high-energy event brings together top athletes from across the Americas to compete in canoe slalom, a
dynamic whitewater course filled with twists and turns, and kayak cross, an action-packed, head-tohead race down challenging rapid.The championships showcase skill, speed, and determination in a scenic riverfront setting, offering spectators an up-close view of intense competition and breathtaking athleticism. Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast or a first-time fan, this event promises excitement for all ages, along with vibrant cultural celebrations, local food vendors, and opportunities to explore the outdoors.
https://montgomerywhitewater.com/upcomingevents/2025-pan-american-championsh ips/
Saturday, March 22
Medal Madness 1M, 5K, 10K, 15K, & Half Marathon
8:00 AM Blount Cultural Park, Montgomery Al Race Information Start Time: The race starts at 8:00 AM. Packet Pickup: Packet pickup starts 30 minutes before the race and ends 10 minutes before the race starts. Registration: All runners must register on RunSignup. No on-site registration. https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/Montgomery/ Blount12
World Down Syndrome Day
11:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Montgomery Whitewater Join Down Syndrome Alabama in celebrating World Down Syndrome Day. This special event is a fun-filled day of fellowship dedicated to honoring and celebrating our friends and family members with Down syndrome. Enjoy lawn games, sweet treats, and a welcoming atmosphere that promotes inclusion and
community. Admission to the park is free, so bring your lawn chairs, blankets, or a tent and spend the day connecting with others in a joyful and supportive environment. We can’t wait to see you there! https://downsyndromealabama.org
Sunday, March 23
ZZ Top
7:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center “That Little Ol’ Band From Texas” has been at it for well over a half century, delivering rock, blues and boogie on the road and in the studio to millions of devoted fans. With iconography as distinctive as their sound, ZZ TOP is virtually synonymous with beards, hotrod cars, spinning guitars and that magic keychain, all of which transcend geography and language. https://www.ticketmaster.com/
Thursday, March 27
MPAC Live Presents Here Comes the Mummies 7:30 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center Here Come the Mummies is an eight-piece funk-rock band of 5000 year-old Egyptian Mummies with a one-track mind. Their “Terrifying Funk from Beyond the Grave” is sure to get you into them (and possibly vice versa). Since their discovery, HCTM has been direct support for P-Funk, Al Green, Mavis Staples, KC and the Sunshine Band, and Cheap Trick; rocked Super Bowl Village; become a regular on The Bob and Tom Show; appeared on That’s My Jam with Jimmy Fallon; played massive festivals like Summer Fest, Summer Camp, Common Ground, Musikfest, and Suwannee Hulaween; and sold tickets by the thousands across large swaths of North America. Maybe that’s why the ladies (and some dudes) can’t stop losing their minds over these mayhem-inducing mavens of mirth. https://www.ticketmaster.com
Sunday, March 30
Exhibition on Screen: Dawn of Impressionism: Paris 1874
1:00 PM - 3:30 PM, Capri Theatre These showings of films by Exhibition on Screen are presented at the Capri Theatre and accompanied by introductions from MMFA staff, offering audiences fully enriched arts experiences. This next film in the 2025 series brings fresh eyes to Paris in 1874 and the factors that sparked the dawn of impressionism. https://www.capritheatre.org/
Saturday, April 5
6th Annual Bunny Shop Hop
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Spinners Park, 390 W. Sixth Street, Prattville, AL Hop into spring with a fun-filled day of shopping, food, and door prizes at the 6th Annual Bunny Shop Hop in Prattville! ???? Enjoy a variety of vendors, delicious treats, and festive Easter fun at Spinners Park on Saturday, April 5th, from 9 AM – 5 PM. Plus, free admission and parking make it the perfect family-friendly event! https://www.facebook.com/PrattvilleSpinners/
Wilson Pickett Music and Arts Festival
10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Cooters Pond Park, Prattville, AL The Wilson Pickett Music and Arts Festival is an annual event held in Cooters Pond Park in Prattville, Alabama, celebrating the arts and the legacy of Wilson Pickett, a Prattville native. Festivities include an entertainment stage, food vendors, children’s activities, and an artist village, featuring local and regional artists representing a variety of media. For more information about registration, please call the Special Events office.
334-595-0850 wilsonpickettfestival.com
Autism Crawfish Boil
3:00 PM - 6:00 PM, Montgomery Biscuits Riverwalk Stadium ALL YOU CAN EAT crawfish and fixins! (Corn, Potatoes, Conecuh Sausage) LIVE ENTERTAINMENT. Admission to the BISCUITS BASEBALL GAME following the event with FREE FIREWORKS SHOW. www.mudbugball.com
Saturday, April 12
Flimp Festival 2025
10:00 AM12:00 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Spend a whimsical and wonderful Saturday in the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden at the Museum’s annual Flimp Festival, a celebration of imagination, humor, and creativity. Appropriate for all ages but designed for families and young children, Flimp is free to attend and features art-making activities, outdoor games, a photo booth, music, resources for families from local partners, and vendors with food for purchase.
https://mmfa.org/event/flimp2025/
Saturday, April 19
Move Montgomery: 5K Bunny Hop Run/Walk 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM, 7150 Halcyon Park Dr., Montgomery, AL 36117 The 5K Bunny Hop is an event created by Move Montgomery to promote wellness in the River Region by encouraging Montgomery residents to live healthier, happier lives. The run/walk will allow participants to exercise at their own pace while staying healthy and having fun! Registration for the event is FREE! There will be a run shirt for the first 300 registrants that pick-up their race packet prior to the run.
https://experiencemontgomeryal.org
Tuesday, April 22
10th Annual River Region Disability Expo 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Alcazar Shriner’s Temple With around 80 vendors, this event is free & open to the public! There will be exhibitors set up from a variety of programs, services, and products. Some examples include independent living, technology, children’s services, recreation, advocacy, education, transition services, social skills, life coaching, employment and so much more.
https://riverregiondisabilityexpo.org/
Saturday, May 3
13th Annual Crawfish Boil Adults: $50 (advance) | $75 (day of) Teens (13-18): $30 Children (12 and under): FREE 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM, Pike Road Patriot Fund at Century Church Join us for the 13th Annual Crawfish Boil, hosted by the Pike Road Patriot Fund at Century Church. This family-friendly event supports Pike Road Schools’ Arts and Athletics programs.
Event Highlights: 7,000 lbs. of Crawfish, Live Music Kid-Friendly Food Options: Hamburgers, hotdogs, BBQ, and more are available for purchase Family Fun: Tents and coolers welcome Sponsorship Opportunities: Support this community event by becoming a sponsor. Learn more at Pike Road Patriot Fund Sponsorships. https://www.eventbrite.com
March 13-April 6
Ken Ludwig’s Sherwood: The Adventures of Robin Hood Alabama Shakespeare Festival A fun-loving young man comes face to face with the kind of greed and inhumanity that won’t let him sleep at night. Suddenly he’s an outlaw hiding in Sherwood Forest where he joins up with a band of followers including Little John, Friar Tuck, and a feisty adventuress, Maid Marian. https://tickets.asf.net/ overview/14814
Selma is Now
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts On February 18, 1965, Jimmie Lee Jackson, a demonstrator in Marion, Alabama, was shot and killed while protesting for equal voting rights. At the same time, 25-year-old James “Spider” Martin, a staff photographer for The Birmingham News, was sent to cover the events that unfolded. This pivotal event prompted an organized fight for civil rights in the South and Martin’s photography would help this effort become national, front page news. All photographs in this exhibition are archival pigment print reproductions of Martin’s original negatives. These images were reprinted by photographer Karen Graffeo in 2023. https://mmfa.org/exhibition/selma-is-now/
March Storytime at Hampstead Branch Library 10:00 AM & 11:00 AM Hampstead Branch Library March 3- One Fish Two Fish, Red Fish Blue Fish by Dr. Seuss; March 10- There was an Old Lady who swallowed a Clover by Lucille Colandro; March 17- How to Catch a Leprechaun by Adam Wallace; March 24When Spring Comes by Kevin Kenkes; March 31- The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. https://www.mccpl.lib.al.us/Pages/Index/20283/ event-calendars
ASF’s Acting Academy’s InterGen: On-Camera Acting (Fee: $175; Registration closes at noon on Mar. 10.) Alabama Shakespeare Festival Chris Gerson is back! You’ve seen him on stage at ASF in A Christmas Carol, Romeo & Juliet, Our Town, and Buzz. You’ve seen him on screen in The Good Fight and FBI: Most Wanted. Now he’s back to teach you the basics of on-camera acting from start to finish. Participants will gain an understanding of script analysis, lighting, cinematography, and editing for film and TV. Get ready to imagine yourself on-set! This course is appropriate for all skill levels (ages 16+).
https://asf.net/education/acting-academy/
Sketchbook Club
5:30 PM Hilltop Public House We meet the 4th Monday of every month at the Hilltop Public House. This is open to anyone interested in sketching. You do NOT
have to be a member of MAG, and you do NOT have to have any experience sketching! Bring something to sketch on and with, and come have fun with old and new friends.
http://publichouse.hilltopmgm.com/
Tuesdays (March 11-April 8)
“Yes! And...?” Beginning Improv Workshop
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Cloverdale Playhouse Do you dream of being an improv superstar? Does the word “improvisation” make you nervous and uneasy? Have you tried to improvise before and felt unsuccessful? Then this workshop is for you! Our “Yes! And...?” workshop is designed to teach you the basic techniques of improvisation through short form sketch work and games.
https://www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/
Every Wednesdays
Karaoke Wednesday at Jerry’s Juke Joint
6:30 PM - 9:30 PM, Jerry’s Juke Joint Sing your favorite songs - every Wednesday because it’s Karaoke Night at Jerry’s Juke Joint. You bring the food, Jerry’s has the drinks.
https://experiencemontgomeryal.org
Wednesday Night Trivia
6:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Common Bond Brewers Test your knowledge and have a blast at Trivia Night! Join us Wednesday night at the CBB taproom for an outrageous evening of trivia, where every bit of knowledge counts. From pop culture to science and history - it’s time to show off what you know! Purchase of alcoholic beverages is not required to participate.
https://experiencemontgomeryal.org
Food Trucks at Common Bond
5:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Common Bond Brewers Funky Forte Food Truck will be set up at the CBB Taproom. Their menu of burgers, wraps, sandwiches, and fries pairs perfectly with Common Bond beer. Stop in where good beer, good food, and good times meet. Thirsty Thursday Beer Specials are also a good deal. https://www.commonbondbrewers.com/
Live Acoustic Street Performance
8:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Corner of Tallapoosa and Commerce Street Free live acoustic set every Friday night at the corner of Tallapoosa and Commerce street in downtown! Come out anytime between 8p-9p and enjoy the beautiful music!
https://experiencemontgomeryal.org
Puzzle Hour
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 1617 Graham Street , Montgomery, AL 36106 Puzzle Hour is a way to bring the puzzle community together for a friendly competition. -Last Saturday of the month (1PM - 3 PM) -2 teams of up to 4 persons each -100 to 300 pieces
-The 1st team to complete the puzzle or the closest to completion wins The winning team gets a gift card. https://www.thingswelikemgm.com/
Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.
RRP: How do you balance motherhood and your career as an Accountant for Alabama Charter Schools?
AS: It is easy because I’m blessed to be able to work remotely. New Schools for Alabama is a flexible work/life balance. I can get my kids ready for school, fit in a quick workout at the gym, then sit down and get my work done. I travel for work, but my husband, Kris, jumps right in, and we don’t miss a beat. Having a great husband who supports me in every area is a blessing. We are a team, and where I may fall short, he is right there filling in the gaps.
RRP: Describe what it’s like being a boy mom to a 13-year-old and 10-year-old.
AS: I love being a boy mom! I especially love the ages they are now and seeing their personalities come through. My teenager is at the stage where he is growing taller than me and coming into manhood. He will joke around with his dad and me. He even likes to hang out with us from time to time. I know this won’t last forever. My 10-yearold is at the age where he will hang out with me all day long. He will go everywhere with me if I let him. He still loves hugs and cuddles.
RRP: Being the treasurer for the soccer booster club at PRJH and a board member of the YMCA soccer division, how rewarding is giving back to you as a mom?
AS: Volunteering as a parent lets me be there for my kids but also shows a different level of support. I may not know all the ins and outs of their interests, but I will help in any way I can. It provides an opportunity to see how hard people work in the background. Not only is it for my kids, but it is also for the kids and the community.
RRP: How and why did you become a cup collector?
AS: I blame my mother. She has always loved collecting pretty dishes and knick-knacks. Cups just so happen to be my favorite. Initially, it started with an insulated coffee cup that kept my coffee hot for hours.
RRP: You mentioned that your parenting looks different from how you were parented. How so?
AS: Seeing myself in my kids made me realize I handle situations differently. My parents guided me to what was right during that period. They did a great job, but the world is so different now. I have had to shift and know that everything is so fast and digital now versus when I was growing up. I may not always get it right, but my kids are great and don’t hold it against me.
RRP: When you had kids, you felt like you lost yourself. How did you navigate finding yourself again?
AS: I was going through the motions to get everything done and keep everyone happy. Navigating that was very hard. While going through the motions, I listened to “being a mom” and “self-help” podcasts. Driving, cooking dinner, and even while doing my night routine, I would listen. Listening helped me feel like I was part of a conversation with other moms. It helped me realize I am not alone.
RRP: How does “breakfast day” with your girlfriends and an “annual couples trip” help you with motherhood?
AS: These allow me time to check in with my friends and discuss the rigorous but fulfilling schedule of motherhood. The trips work as a “team meeting” to reset and reflect.
RRP: Your sons’ personalities are relaxed for Noah and type A for Kristian. How do you handle conflicts between them?
AS: Most arguments are because someone did or didn’t do something the way the other would have done it on the chore list. I must let them explain their version of the circumstance that caused the conflict separately, then talk with them both together. Otherwise, it gets worse. That usually works, but I do make them leave each other alone for a bit to reset their emotions.
Favorite thing to do for self-care? Listening to an audiobook while doing my nails.
Favorite drama TV series? Grey’s Anatomy and Law and Order.
A day in the gym or a nature walk? Nature walk.
Favorite dish? Salmon, Brussels sprouts, and a side of rice.
How often do you and your husband go on date nights? At least two to three times a month.
Adrienne Stallworth has been married to Chris Stallworth for 16 years. They have two sons: Christian (13) and Noah (10). They live in Pike Road, AL.
