Montgomery Parents July 2012

... is believing that smokeless tobacco will not leave a mark on your life.

1.800.Quit.Now INCENTIVES FOR TEENS

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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(BUT THIS TIME IT'S NOT WHAT YOU THINK)

BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER EAST, the only Top 100 Hospital in a three state region.

You may have already heard that Baptist Health was recognized in the Top 15 health systems in the nation. But now there’s more winning news. Out of nearly 3,000 hospitals nationwide, Baptist Medical Center East in Montgomery was recently named one of the Top 100 Hospitals in America by Thomson Reuters when it comes to quality, safety and patient satisfaction. And we are the only hospital in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi to make the list. So if you are one of our employees or physicians, you should be feeling pretty good right now. And if you’re one of our patients, well, you should be feeling great.

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

334.273.4444 | baptistfirst.org Find out more at WhyWeAreNumberOne.com

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Come Worship With Us!

Programs offered for all ages and stages of life.

Sunday 8:30 am 9:45 am 11:00 am 5:00 pm 6:15 pm

Worship Services Bible Fellowship Classes Worship Services Discipleship Classes Worship Service

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First Family Dinner Sanctuary Orchestra Rehearsal First Family Prayer Time Powerhouse (Student Ministry) Sanctuary Choir Rehearsal

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Bring them in...

Build them up...

Send them out...

305 South Perry Street | Montgomery, AL 36104 334.834.6310 | www.montgomeryfbc.org www.montgomeryparents.com 4

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Contents July 2012

Volume 17 Number 7

Features 50 Bust a Mood!

Discover what particular situations cause bad moods in your children and three strategies for helping them put on a happy face.

58 Double the Birthday Fun

Pairing parties with siblings and friends is a growing trend. Learn how to pull it off on your child’s next birthday and discover some great dual party themes.

60 2012 Birthday Party Planner

Find everything you need to plan your child’s next birthday party in our extensive local guide!

Columns

74 Summer Safety Slip-Ups

While summertime brings lots of fun, it also brings an increased risk for childhood accidents. Learn common mistakes parents make and how to avoid them.

6 From One Parent to Another DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

12 Kids Health Watch

On The Cover

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces

sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Education Matters

16 School Bits

Superintendent Barbara W. Thompson

48 Get This!

Paige Gardner Smith

54 Page in a Book

70 Library Storytimes

56 The FlyLady

80 Calendar/Support Groups

Paige Gardner Smith

Marla Cilley

96 Movie Reviews Parent Previews

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

Chloe Wegner is the daughter of Brad & Tela Wegner.

She celebrated her birthday on March 8 and turned eight years old. She will attend Airport Road Intermediate School in Millbrook this fall as a 3rd grader. Chloe enjoys participating in dancing, gymnastics, and pageants. She was one of the top 15 finalists in the National Alabama Miss Pageant in June 2012 and was crowned Little Miss Labor Day at the Prattville Labor Day Pageant in 2011.

Chloe is pictured at ACE Bowling Center in Montgomery.

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95 Advertiser Directory

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MontgomeryParents

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Founder

Marty Watson (1950-2006)

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com

Associate Editor Alison Rouse

Research Editor Wendy McCollum

Contributing Writers Marla Cilley Dr. Robert L. Coggin Sandra Gordon Malia Jacobson Phil Mitchell, DVM Michele Ranard, M.Ed. John Rosemond Paige Gardner Smith Barbara W. Thompson

Cover Photography Savannah Bowden Photography

Ad Design Tim Welch

Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com

Advertising Opportunities 334.213.7940 ads@montgomeryparents.com

Member

www.montgomeryparents.com editor@montgomeryparents.com Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly

by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. The phone number for voice and fax is (334) 213.7940. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2012 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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From One Parent to Another...

Take a preteen daughter and a 15-year-old son with varying emotions, throw in a 40-year-old mother trying to get used to her different (and often trying) schedule with a new toddler, plus that toddler trying to adjust and attach with our family, and I would say that my group is very familiar with MOODS these days. Fortunately, Jason is the most even-keeled person I know, and I think he’s pretty amazing for putting up with the many moods in our home and almost always keeping a positive attitude! He’s a stabilizing force for sure!

Having one-year-old Grace join our family this past month has reminded me of the various moods swings young children go through. We’ve had to be careful to read her cues and not let her become too overstimulated, not let her get too overtired before resting, and know when she just needs some one-on-one holding time.

With our teenager, it’s more about giving him space and doing our best to keep him on track with things that need to be done, while not micro-managing too much. I find when he works independently and feels a sense of freedom, his mood is better and he is happier.

With our preteen daughter, I try to sense if she’s just plain exhausted and that’s what’s causing the extra emotions or if there is a real issue that she needs to work through. And I know sometimes girls her age just feel sad for no apparent reason, in which case, I ask her, “Do you just feel like you need to cry a little? It’s okay, I feel that way, too, sometimes. You can cry with me if you want to.”

We are complicated creatures with many emotions and our moods can often get the best of us if we don’t know how to manage the triggers. Since this is especially true with young children we have included Michele Ranard’s article, Bust a Mood: 3

Strategies to Calm Beastly Moods in Your Kids.

Keeping our kids outdoors during the nicer months of the year is definitely one way to keep them happy (and busy), but summertime also brings some dangers that parents must be on the watch for at all times. Sandra Gordon’s article, Summer Safety SlipUps shares seasonal hazards you may not have considered and she tells us how to play it safe with all of our outdoor summer fun.

And speaking of FUN, take special note of our main focus in this month’s issue...

Birthdays! Kids look forward to their birthday parties every year, whether it’s a sleepover with only a few friends or a big party at a local venue with a large group. Our 2012 Birthday Party Planner lists all the local resources you need to plan your child’s next birthday bash, whether large or small. Plus, Malia Jacobson shares creative ideas for joint parties in Double Up on Birthday Fun! Anna had a double birthday party last year with a friend and it was a huge success. Not only was there double excitement about two birthday girls and their celebrations, but it was cheaper since the cost of the party was split in half. And to top it off, I only had to do half the work. You can’t beat that!

In talking about birthdays, I’m especially reminded of America’s birthday this year and more thankful than ever before to live in this great country. After spending three weeks in Russia during the first part of 2012 to adopt our sweet Grace, Jason and I were so happy (and even relieved) to return home each time. Traveling abroad is a sure-fire way to make you thankful for America...it certainly had that effect on us. Wherever you plan to spend July 4th, may it be a safe and wonderful holiday for you and your family!

See you next month when we go...Back to School!

DeAnne 6

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Living With Children

By John Rosemond

Helping a Child Who is “Stuck” in the Grieving Process Q:

My husband was killed nearly a year ago, and my 11-yearold son is still having a difficult time with it.

Before the accident, he was always cheerful and social and hardly ever complained. That still describes him, most of the time, but every now and again he slips into moods where he is just the opposite. These episodes occur once every couple of weeks and last for a couple of days, on average. I took him to see a therapist a while back, but I saw no change after three months of weekly sessions, so I took him out. When these moods happen, we talk about how special his dad was and how much he misses him, but I don’t think I’m making any headway. Any suggestions would be much appreciated.

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Over the past forty or so years, a number of researchers have identified and generated a fairly extensive body of literature concerning the stages of the grieving process. These include denial, anger, depression, and final acceptance. The general feeling among mental health professionals is that the process should be allowed to run its course, which takes longer in some individuals than in others.

That’s generally good advice, but as is the case with most general rules, there are exceptions. Some people, for example, get “hung up” at some point in the process. They need facilitators who can help them get unstuck and move on. That role can be served by a therapist, a friend who’s gone through the process, or a group of people who are all grieving for similar reasons.

When a child gets stuck, as seems to be the case with your son, it is often the case that continued discussion of the child’s feelings is going to make matters worse rather than better. I was recently discussing this very issue with a psychologist who works with military families who have lost a loved one in war. He said that one of his biggest

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challenges is recognizing when talking about a person’s feelings has become counterproductive.

My educated guess is that your son has reached the point where the more he talks about how much he misses his dad, the more he’s going to miss his dad and the more often he’s going to slip into these funks of his.

He needs someone to help him get unstuck, and I suggest that you’re in the best position to give him that gentle push. After all, there’s no one he trusts more than you.

Don’t wait for the next episode. Instead, talk to him when the proverbial iron is cold.

Say something along these lines: “I’ve noticed that when we talk about your dad and how much you miss him, we are talking about things we’ve talked about before.

That’s good, because it means that there’s really nothing more to say. So I’ve decided that from now on, we’re only going to talk about your dad twice a month, every other Saturday morning (for example) right after breakfast. That’s the best time because neither of us has to be anywhere and we can talk as long as we need to. The new rule, however, is that we can’t talk about stuff we’ve already talked about. We have to talk about new stuff.”

That will mean that you have to enforce two rules: first, you only talk twice a month; second, you don’t go over stuff you’ve already talked about. Initially, you may need to say things like, “I’ve noticed that you might be thinking about your dad again.

That’s fine. Take some time to think about what we’re going to talk about next Saturday. Write it down so you don’t forget, but remember, we only talk about new stuff.”

The combination of your authority and the new rules will provide exactly what he needs to begin resolving his sadness and moving on. The likelihood is, when it comes time for a scheduled talk session, he really won’t have much, if anything, to talk about.

That, in fact, is the goal.

Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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bits & pieces Family Fun Nights At Eastdale Mall

Thursdays & Fridays Through August 10 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.

All tickets are $1.

Spirit (G) July 12-13 Bee Movie (PG) July 19-20 Megamind (PG) July 26-27 Antz (PG) August 2-3 How To Train Your Dragon (PG) August 9-10

Mondays & Thursdays at 10 a.m.

Through August 9 Happy Feet Two July 2 & 5 Journey 2 to the Mysterious Island July 9 & 12 Dolphin Tale July 16 & 19 Shorts July 23 & 26 Inkheart July 30 & August 2 Happy Feet August 6 & 9

Summer Movie Night at The Tipping Point

Bring the family out for movies on the big outdoor inflatable screen at Hampstead’s Tipping Point! Showtime starts at sundown. Remember to bring blankets or low-back chairs and check Tipping Point’s Facebook page for updates in case of bad weather at www.facebook.com/thetippingpoint. No outside food or beverages.

July 11: Little Mermaid; July 25: Yo Gabba Gabba www.montgomeryparents.com

Eastdale Mall’s Family Fun Nights provide families in the River Region with an exciting evening filled with hands-on activities, story times, performances presented by area attractions and discounts from participating mall merchants. Eastdale Mall’s Family Fun Nights are scheduled for every Saturday between 5 and 7 p.m. through August 4. Children 10 and under will be able to ice skate for free and ride the carousel for half price during Family Fun Nights. Visit www.shopmalls.com for details.

Upcoming Theatre

Direct from South Korea, the Alabama Shakespeare Festival will present the Broadway and international hit NANTA Cooking Show July 11-15. NANTA is a cooking show adventure that features four engaging and athletic male and female Korean chefs in a huge kitchen preparing for a wedding banquet. As they cook, the highly entertaining foursome turn the stage full of kitchen items such as pots, pans, dishes, chopping boards, brooms and knives into rhythmic percussion instruments. When the food and fun stop flying, the performance culminates in a feast in which some lucky audience get to have a taste.

Tickets are available by calling 271-5353, visiting www.asf.net or going to the ASF box office in Blount Cultural Park.

The Cloverdale Playhouse Troupe will present Fables Here and Then July 12-13 at 7 p.m., and July 14 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. This is a collection of stories and legends from around the world adapted by David Feldshuh. With music and magic, wonderful young actors from our community present the Playhouse Troupe’s inaugural production. Call (334) 262-1530 for tickets. $10 adults, $5 children under 12. Visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org Millbrook Community Players present Rodger’s and Hammerstein’s State Fair July 19-22 and July 26-28. Directed by John Collier. All shows at 7:30 p.m. except for July 22 at 2 p.m. Set against the colorful backdrop of an American heartland tradition, State Fair travels with the Frake family as they leave behind the routine of the farm for three days of adventure at the annual Iowa State Fair. Set to the magical strains of an Academy Award-winning score and augmented by other titles from the Rodgers and Hammerstein songbook. Please call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com for ticket information.

We often find that when we search for one thing, we find something unexpected and much more important. That is just one of the themes woven through Panache, a tender comedy presented by the Wetumpka Depot Players that revolves around two very different people who ultimately discover they are much more alike than they are different. The play is written by Don Gordon and directed by Tom Salter. Dates are July 26-August 11. For tickets, visit www.wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre presents Jack Heifner’s Patio/Porch July 26-August 12. The script explores the relationships between sisters in Patio and mothers and daughters in Porch. Both are set in a small Southern town in the heat of summer and have a mixture of humorous and dramatic elements. For more info, visit wobt. prattvilleal.gov or call the Cultural Arts Office at (334) 358-0297.

Faulkner Dinner Theatre presents Oliver August 2-4; 9-11; 16-18; and 23-25.

Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7, with the show beginning promptly at 7:30. Tickets are $25 and include dinner and the show. Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $20. Reservations must be paid in advance.

For reservations or more information, call 386-7190 or e-mail boxoffice@faulkner.edu.

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FREE Family Events at the Riverfront

Max Movie Mondays will take place at the Riverwalk Ampthitheatre through July.

Admission is FREE and the movies begin at sundown. Bring the family, your blankets and catch a movie under the stars! *Coolers are allowed, but please no outside alcohol.* July 9 - Dolphin Tale; July 16 - The Mighty Macs; July 23 - Puss in Boots; and July 30 - Alvin & the Chipmunks: Chip-Wrecked.

Free Family Events are also offered the second Saturday of every month, from 5-8 p.m. Activities include: live entertainment, interactive activities for all ages (bocce ball & more), food vendors and cocktails from the SandBAR! Vendors include: iCantina, Dreamland, Peppertree Steaks and Wines, Cheezie’s Pizza, Nancy’s Italian Ice, Spacewalker, Bruster’s Ice Cream and Nathan’s Hot Dogs. For more info, call 625-2100 or visit www.funontheriver.net.

AUM Hosts Beach Party

Friday, July 13 * 6-8 p.m.

Bring the kids to celebrate on the quad and enjoy food, games and a family-friendly band. Admission is free, but guests are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for the Montgomery Food Bank. Today’s event is the second installment of the third annual AUM Summer Concert Series and features a beach party with the cool reggae james of The Good Doctor. Outdoor games and activities will be offered, including sidewalk chalk, bubbles, coloring pages, Frisbees, and hula-hoops. Bring your own lawn chairs and picnic blankets. Outside food is welcome, but Boomer T’s Barbecue will sell hamburgers, hot dogs, barbeque, loaded nachos, drinks and snacks (credit cards and cash accepted). In case of inclement weather, festivities will be moved inside the AUM Physical Education Complex. Learn more at www.aum.edu/ summerconcert.

Register for Montgomery Cowboys Youth Football

The Montgomery Cowboys Youth Football and Cheerleading League is now registering kids ages 5-12 for the fall 2012 season. There is a small registration fee, but a fundraiser has been implemented to help parents with this cost.

The Montgomery Cowboys Youth Organization is a proud member of the Southeastern Youth Football League. We appreciate any help from sponsors and volunteers. Come join us! For any additional info, call Michael Crusoe at 349-2941, e-mail montgomerycowboys@yahoo.com or visit www.montgomerycowboys.org.

Summer Concerts for Pre-Schoolers

SuperWhy! Live at Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center July 20 at 6:30 p.m.

For tickets, call 800-745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com The Wiggles Live at Atlanta Fox Theatre July 31 at 2:30 & 6:30 p.m.

The original Fab Four from Down Under are back together! The Wiggles summer tour will reunite Anthony, Jeff and Murray with Yellow Wiggle Greg Page as they perform together for the first time in five years.

Visit www.foxtheatre.org or call (404) 881-2100.

School Uniform & Sports Equipment Sale July 25-27 * 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

1/2 Price Day July 28 * 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

My Kids Attic will host a school uniform consignment sale for ALL area public and private schools. We will also have a sports equipment consignment sale at the same time. Items will include: treadmills, exercise bikes, weight benches, football helmets and pads, baseball bats, gloves, soccer gear, cleats, golf clubs & bags, and karate sparring gear. For details, visit www.mykidsattic.biz.

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Kids Heal h Watch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Concussions On August 8, 2011 Gov. Robert Bentley signed into law the Alabama Concussion Law. This was in response an estimated 3.8 million traumatic brain injuries suffered each year in young people 10-19 years of age.

Many of these injuries required Emergency Room or doctors office visits costing millions of dollars. Approximately 7% of these injuries result in hospitalization and it is estimated that as many as 900 individuals a year die as a result of their injuries.

Typically, these injuries are thought of as occurring while participating in contact sports such as football, however, these injuries can occur in any sport. About 60% of concussions in boys occur in football. Soccer is the most common sport for concussions to occur in girls, mainly due to repeated headers of the ball. Concussions can even occur in golf from cart accidents and cheerleading due to falls from formations. Concussions also occur outside sports in falls at home or motor vehicle accidents.

A concussion is a complex traumatic brain injury, usually from a blow to the head that causes the brain to move quickly back and forth, impacting against the inside of the skull.

This results in the function of the brain to be impaired from mechanical injury and metabolic disruption of neurochemicals in the brain.

Basically, the brain stops working normally.

The effects of the injury may occur quickly, but may be delayed from hours to days. It may take from minutes to months for symptoms to resolve. Common symptoms

of a concussion include: headache, confusion, dizziness, nausea, blurred vision, loss of memory, poor concentration, mood or behavior changes, and sensitivity to light or noise.

Loss of consciousness, although important, is not a common symptom.

The Alabama Concussion Law requires that athletic organizations provide information to the athletes and their families, ensures that coaches are trained in the recognitions of concussions. It also requires that whenever an athlete is suspected of having a concussion that he or she must be removed from participation immediately and not be allowed to return until a physician has cleared them, and a Concussion Information Form by signed by the student and a parent.

Evaluation of a concussion consists mainly of a history of how the injury occurred and a physical and cognitive examination.

The most important elements of the examination are evaluation of memory and balance.

Memory function is determined by the ability to correctly answer questions related to the activity they have been participating in. Balance is determined by a series of physical tests of motor skills. This evaluation is aided with the Sports Concussion Assessment Tool2nd Edition (SCAT-2) and the Balance Error Scoring System (BESS) test CT and MRI scans of the brain are not routinely indicated unless there is a specific medical indication for the test.

The primary treatment for a concussion is rest. Just like when a muscle has been

injured, it must be rested in order to heal, the brain also must be rested in order to heal properly. The recovery time for a concussion is extremely variable, but generally will take 7-10 days. Recovery is a specific supervised program of return to normal activity. Activity is gradually increased from complete physical and mental rest on the first day after the injury. This means no physical activity, TV, computer time, video games, school, or any stressful activity. After the first day of recovery, gradual, stepwise increase in activity is allowed each day as long as there is no return of any symptoms of a concussion.

The decision of return to play may be difficult, but the long-term mental and physical health of the athlete is always the primary focus in making this decision. There is much more information and details of the symptoms, evaluation, and treatment of concussion available. “Like� us on our Facebook page for links to this information.

Dr. Coggin received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and did his pediatric residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson.

He began private practice in Mississippi and has been in Montgomery since 1983. He has two married daughters, one in Montgomery and one in Telluride, Colorado. He enjoys college sports with his wife, Cathy, who is an attorney.

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

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

Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

OFFICE HOURS Mon-Thurs Friday Saturday Sunday www.montgomeryparents.com

8:00 am - Evening Appts.

8:00 am - 4:00 pm 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm 12

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In a bulls-eye location surrounded by the city’s newest schools, best shopping and new convenience with the new Ray Thorington/Taylor Road connector road opening soon.

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www.montgomeryparents.com

District Accreditation a Plus Standing back and taking a good honest look in the mirror is a good thing. However, if you really want to evaluate yourself, inviting external experts in to evaluate your work is even better. That is what Montgomery Public Schools is doing as we move forward in our work toward district accreditation. While all MPS schools are already accredited, districtwide accreditation is a desirable goal for all school systems.

In May of 2013 a group of educators representing AdvancED will be in Montgomery. AdvancED is the parent group of the Southeastern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS) that is our accreditation agency. These experts from all over the country will visit our schools and look at our data.

They will talk to parents and the public and put our system under a microscope. We welcome the opportunity to hear both what needs improving and what we are doing right.

The process to gain accreditation as a system is intense and thorough. This is an attempt to ensure the instructional programs at all of our schools are equal and of a high quality.

One of the most important milestones we must reach over the next year is an update of our strategic plan--an internal evaluation of where we are and where we need to be, with input from the community as well.

This summer we will hold three public meetings to get reaction from community on our five year plan. The www.montgomeryparents.com

meetings are July 10 at Carr Middle, July 19 at Dalraida Elementary, and July 24 at Carver High; each at 6:00 p.m. These meetings are excellent opportunities for you to express your ideas and help the school system continue to move forward.

I hope you will attend at least one meeting. More importantly, I hope that this process will be the catalyst for you to take an interest in education in Montgomery. Please volunteer in a school in your neighborhood or in one of our specialized programs where your skills could help a young person develop.

We have made tremendous progress.

This fall the International Baccalaureate program begins, MTEC, a new high school to help students learn technical skills and certifications for a variety of high paying jobs. In addition, our new high school, Park Crossing, will be online in the fall of 2013.

There are five areas of focus in district-wide accreditation: 1. Purpose and Direction, 2. Governance and Leadership, 3. Teaching and Assessing for Learning, 4. Resources and 5. Support Systems, and Using Results for Continuous Improvement. The strategic plan is a key part of the process.

District accreditation is an achievable goal that all systems should strive toward. It is worth the effort to have the seal of approval from external experts outside of our organization. It will assure us, and the community, that what we see in the mirror is an accurate reflection of who we are, what we are doing and what our students are achieving. This process will give us the road map to follow as we strive to provide a high quality education for all students.

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MPS Class of 2012 Earns Millions in Scholarship Offers For 1,378 members of the Montgomery Public Schools’ 2012 class, excelling academically, through the arts, community service and athletics has paid off in a number of ways ─ about 23 million to be exact.

This year’s MPS senior class earned nearly $23 million in scholarship offers ─ a 34% increase over last year’s $15 million. Students at six of the district’s seven high schools showed a marked increase in the number of scholarships earned by graduating seniors.

Loveless Academic Magnet increased its scholarship offers by $5 million or 60% over last year. Brewbaker Tech Magnet increased by $1 million or 33%; Booker T. Washington Magnet increased by $793,000 or 27%; Carver High increased by $ 221,000 or 21%; Lanier High increased by $490,000 or 69% and Jeff Davis increased by $180,000 or 37%.

Though Lee High did not report an increase in the number of scholarship offers received by students, its seniors still earned $614,480 this year.

Superintendent Barbara Thompson attributes the rise to several factors: from an increase in advance placement offerings and academic supports, proactive counselors and parents, to offering more workshops on scholarship opportunities and completing the Federal Application for Free Student Aid (FAFSA).

“When I first arrived in the district three years ago, I knew it was important that we look at ways to increase rigor in our schools,” said Thompson. “We’ve increased the number of advanced placement offerings by 50% percent over the last three years. This has made our students more competitive, and as a result, they are more attractive to colleges and universities and tend to qualify for more scholarship offers.”

“Our school counselors have gotten a lot of support from the community groups like EMERGE’s Torchbearers and higher education partners like Alabama State University, Trenholm, Auburn Montgomery and others who have come to our schools to work directly with seniors and their parents on completing financial aid forms and showing them where to find scholarship dollars,” said Thompson.

“No MPS student or parent should miss out on these valuable opportunities because they didn’t’ know about them. In a tough economy, that makes a real difference,” she said. “I am so proud of our 2012 class. It just proves that with a lot of hard work and a little ingenuity, college is not out of reach.”

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Twelve STJ Musicians Perform in Honor Band

Trinity’s Wax Museum Brings Life to History

The Trinity Presbyterian School Alabama Wax Museum was the culmination of the fourth-graders’ year-long study of Alabama history. The students studied the lives of many Alabamians and this event highlighted them. Each fourth-grader portrayed a famous person from Alabama, such as Zelda Fitzgerald, Lurleen Wallace, Hank Williams, Hank Aaron, Tallulah Bankhead, Heather Whitestone, Martin Luther King Jr., and Emma Samson, just to name a few. The students acted out their character standing on individual podiums.

When an on-looker rang their bell, this prompted the fourth-grader to recite a brief biography about their character. The wax museum was set up outside in front of the school, which allowed parents, students, and others to enjoy this spectacular learning event.

Georgia Mracek is shown portraying Zelda Fitzgerald.

Twelve Saint James School musicians, selected by audition, performed in the 2012 AllDistrict Honor Band recently. Students from throughout Alabama auditioned for their area All-District Honor Bands.

Successful STJ students selected for the area band are, from left: Braxton Benton, Alexander Chung, Savannah Smith, Madison Smith, Ricky Seeber, Mason Edwards, Josef Jackson, Carter Lloyd, Kayla Carr, Charles Painter, Matt Young and Jordan Bradwell. The All-District Honor Band performed together at Auburn High School on Feb. 25.

Baumhower’s Brings Lunch to Holy Cross School

Each year, Holy Cross Episcopal School 4th grade has a writing assignment which is a descriptive essay about each student’s favorite restaurant. The teacher discusses the elements of a great descriptive essay - lots of adjectives, vivid details and multi-sensory elements. As the students finished this year’s essays, resource teacher Marcia Bazzell forwarded them to each restaurant which was the topic.

This year the essays produced an unexpected result. Fourth-grader Kinley Tadlock chose Baumhower’s as her favorite restaurant. Soon after the essay was sent, the school received a phone call asking if some representatives of the restaurant could bring Tadlock a surprise. But, the surprise was for the entire school! Baumhower’s employees arrived at Holy Cross with enough of their famous wings and sauce to feed the entire student body lunch that day! Tadlock was treated to lots of thanks from her fellow students and a special order of cheesy fries just for her! She mentioned them specifically in her essay.

Shown, resource teacher Marcia Bazzell, Kinley Tadlock and Baumhower’s employees

Forest Avenue Teachers Host Volunteer Reception

Teachers and staff of Forest Avenue Academic Magnet hosted a “Volunteer Appreciation Reception” to honor the many parent and community volunteers who help at the school each year. Parents were treated to a brunch prepared by the faculty.

Many parents attended and teachers rotated in throughout the morning to express their gratitude to the parents who volunteer. Parent volunteers are a vital part of the program at Forest Avenue. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Academy Class of 2012 Claims Variety of Honors

BrewTech Sponsors School Uniform Drive

The Class of 2012 from The Montgomery Academy claims numerous accomplishments in the classroom, in the arts, in the sports arena, and in the community. Comprised of 56 students, this Senior Class celebrates the recognition of 18 students in the National Merit Scholarship Program and the Advanced Placement Scholars Program. Since joining the Upper School in the Fall of 2008, members of this class have played key roles in interscholastic athletics, capturing 11 State Championships, while at the same time contributing to the Speech and Debate program’s recognition by the National Forensic League as being in the top 1% in the nation. With acceptances to 63 different institutions of higher learning, 41 students in the Senior Class have been offered $3,363,963 in merit-based scholarship money, an amount which does not include financial aid or need-based scholarships.

For the close of the school year, the RAM Hosts of Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School sponsored a uniform drive.

Students were asked to “chunk” their gently used uniforms for resale. All items collected were washed and will be sold at discounted prices in the Brew Tech RAM Shack for the 2012-2013 school year. The Brew Tech family plans to continue this effort annually to support their students and school.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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Bear Students Design Dog Houses for Contest

The students of Bear Exploration Center were busy participating in the first Student Design Competition recently, which consisted of designing a “Dog House for Mrs. Hill.”

A panel of judges, consisting of architects and a veterinarian, “judged” the students’ work and selected ten dog houses. Ava Card, Nicolas June, Owen Penney, Logan Dulaney, Jackson Sellers, Taylor Penney, Kylee Christianson, Chole Czapala, Megan Parker and Jalen Bynum were the winners. Nicolas June and Owen Penney actually had their designs constructed. Their dog houses are being auctioned off and all proceeds will go to the Bear PTA. Pictured are Nicolas June with his winning design titled “Cheese Dog House” and Owen Penney with his winning design, “Bear Dog House.”

EastChase Hosts Second ‘Stuff the Bus’ Event

The Shoppes at EastChase will join with EMERGE Montgomery, Touch of Class Limousine, Clear Channel and Costco to host its second annual “Stuff the Bus” School Supply Drive on Saturday, August 4. School supplies will be collected in a school bus next to Dillard’s between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. The Montgomery County School Board will distribute the supplies to needy schools and children in Montgomery County.

“We are excited to be a part of Stuff the Bus for the second year in a row,” said Jeff Branch, property manager for The Shoppes at EastChase. “It’s great to be a part of something that benefits Montgomery schools that are in need. We were able to donate thousands of supplies last year, and we expect to donate even more supplies this year.”

For details, visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com or follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/eastchase.

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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NED Show Visits ACA

The NED Show based out of Lynnwood, Washington, came to Alabama Christian Academy on May 11, entertaining the elementary students, faculty and staff.

NED stands for “Never give up, Encourage others and Do your best,” and it combines a positive message with humor, storytelling, audience participation and memorable object lessons like yo-yo and magic tricks.

Andrew Fish Booth, who represented The NED Show, taught students how they can develop the three valuable characteristics (NED) to become champions at school and in life. ACA students enjoyed the interactive part of the show and participated enthusiastically with every activity.

Shown, Andrew rewards Brendon German for having a positive outlook on life.

www.montgomeryparents.com

M M Homeschool Group Celebrates Awards Day

SUA Recognizes 8th Grade Academic Scholars

The eighth-grade class of the Success Unlimited Academy Junior High School congratulates its academic scholars for their third-quarter performance. Each student earned A or A/B Honor Roll status for the nine-week period. SUA acknowledges that “it takes a village to raise a child,” and “it takes the students, parents and teachers to create a successful young person.”

Sara Davis, Tiye Davis, Charlie Ragona and Jimmy Schoolfield earned this special recognition. We thank their supportive parents for their unrelenting efforts.

ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization) students recently celebrated Awards Day and the end of the 2011-2012 school year. The following students received many awards for academics, sports and achievements throughout the school year. Back row from left are Zachary Joye, Windsor Joye, Sarah Phillips, Callie Littlefield, Rebecca Phillips, Tamara Phillips, Austin Murphy, Jayvius Chapman, Luke Pollock, Morgan Ballard, Theador Haynes, Chanceton Littlefield, Juliana Pope, Ann Keskula, Adrien Ray, Cole Murphy, Kiriath Robinson, Diantha Ray, Aurora Haynes, Sebastian Pope, Gideon Ray, and Ivan Ray (not present). Little siblings awards went to Cora Bateman, Maileah Keskula and Shalom Robinson (not in photo). Cole Murphy graduated from kindergarten.

ECHO is a local support group that aims to help homeschool parents and students. The group meets the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon, at Coosada Baptist Church. Membership is Free. For more information, please visit www.onlineecho.com

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MPS Class of 2012 Earns Millions in Scholarship Offers

For 1,378 members of the Montgomery Public Schools’ 2012 class, excelling academically, through the arts, community service and athletics has paid off in a number of ways ─ about 23 million to be exact. This year’s MPS senior class earned nearly $23 million in scholarship offers ─ a 34% increase over last year’s $15 million. Students at six of the district’s seven high schools showed a marked increase in the number of scholarships earned by graduating seniors.

Loveless Academic Magnet increased its scholarship offers by $5 million, or 60% over last year. Brewbaker Tech Magnet increased by $1 million, or 33%; Booker T. Washington Magnet increased by $844,000 or 29%; Carver High increased by $ 221,000 or 21%; Lanier High increased by $490,000 or 69% and Jeff Davis increased by $180,000 or 37%. Though Lee High did not report an increase in the number of scholarship offers received by students, its seniors still earned $614,480 this year.

Superintendent Barbara Thompson attributes the rise to several factors: from an increase in advance placement offerings and academic supports, proactive counselors and parents, to offering more workshops on scholarship opportunities and completing the Federal Application for Free Student Aid (FAFSA).

“When I first arrived in the district three years ago, I knew it was important that we look at ways to increase rigor in our schools,” said Thompson. “We’ve increased the number of advanced placement offerings by 50% percent over the last three years. This has made our students more competitive, and as a result, they are more attractive to colleges and universities and tend to qualify for more scholarship offers.

“Our school counselors have gotten a lot of support from the community groups like EMERGE’s Torchbearers and higher education partners like Alabama State University, Trenholm, Auburn Montgomery and others who have come to our schools to work directly with seniors and their parents on completing financial aid forms and showing them where to find scholarship dollars,” said Thompson. “No MPS student or parent should miss out on these valuable opportunities because they didn’t know about them. In a tough economy, that makes a real difference.

“I am so proud of our 2012 class. It just proves that with a lot of hard work and a little ingenuity, college is not out of reach.”

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

where i will grow

As Central Alabama’s 21st Century Technology School, Saint James is proud to be on the cutting edge once again... bringing the latest in technology to your child.

Starting this fall, each student in grades 6–8 will be assigned iPads® and all high school students will be assigned MacBooks.® Preschool and elementary students will continue to have regular access to iPod®, iPad® and MacBook® carts.

Visit our state-of-the-art campus and picture your child soaring to new heights – right from the classroom!

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English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided.

Saint James School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

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SUA Students Conduct Vibration Experiment

The Achievement Class at Success Unlimited Academy studied sound and hearing, so they completed an experiment about vibrations. They made a straw out of paper and flattened the end of it, then cut both sides of the end making a reed. Wetting the tip of the straw and blowing through the opposite end of the straw produced vibrations that were visible. It didn’t make sweet music, but the students did hear some high-pitched sounds.

STJ Students Try Mock Cases in Supreme Court

LAMP Students Awarded Scholarships to Taiwan

Three Loveless Academic Magnet Mandarin language students have been awarded the chance to study abroad in Taiwan this summer, after receiving full scholarships from the “Alabama Mandarin Language Programs” of Montgomery.

Students Alex Gillie, Arielle Fletcher and Kathryn Higginbotham will participate in the three-week program, made available by grant funding from the U.S. Department of Education. During their time abroad, the students will take part in language-learning activities, visit historic and cultural places of interest, enjoy local foods and visits with host families.

This is the third year that the Alabama Mandarin Language Program has been able to sponsor students for the unique language and culture immersion experience in Taiwan, according to its program director, who says they are “only able to provide this experience through grant funding and the support and cooperation of participating schools such as Loveless Academic Magnet.” This year’s selectees have each studied Mandarin for at least one semester, demonstrated personal and academic excellence and obtained recommendations by their teacher and school counselor. The students were recognized recently at an Orientation Program for selected students and their parents.

From left, LAMP Mandarin language teacher Steven Frost, Kathryn Higginbotham, Arielle Fletcher, Alex Gillie and Principal Sylvia Goshton. www.montgomeryparents.com

Saint James eighth-graders took part in a unique learning experience May 9 when they conducted mock trials of two notorious cases in American history: The United States v. Ethel and Julius Rosenberg and The United States Court Martial of Lieutenant William Calley. What made these mock trial events even more unique was the fact that students tried the cases in a real courtroom before Alabama’s Supreme Court Associate Justice Kelli Wise, who served as the presiding judge. The proceedings took place on the third floor of the Alabama Supreme Court building.

“I asked Justice Wise to preside over and run the trial just like a real case, allowing my students to not only delve into the history of the famous historical trials, but also to learn about court procedures,” said teacher Venna Everett. “Every student played roles, as prosecuting or defense attorneys, defendants, jurors and witnesses. The Saint James students came up with their own verdict, based on the facts as they were presented. Often the verdict the students reach is very different from the verdict reached in the actual, historical event.”

Students participating in The United States v. the Rosenbergs tried the “couple” on charges of passing U.S. secrets about the atomic bomb to the Soviet Union. In real life, the Rosenbergs were convicted and executed in 1953, the first American civilians to be executed for espionage. In the STJ trial, Ethel Rosenberg was acquitted while her husband Julius was convicted.

In the second case, The Court Martial of Lt. William Calley, the student portraying Lt. Calley was on trial for the premeditated murder of 104 civilians killed near My Lai, in Vietnam, in 1968. In the actual trial, Calley was convicted by a jury of six officers and sentenced to life imprisonment, though his sentence was eventually adjusted to four and a half months in a military prison. In the Saint James mock trial, Calley was found innocent.

Students were given background information on the particular witness they were assigned, as well as on the case. There was no script, and students were required to develop their own opening and closing arguments, direct examinations and cross-examinations. In addition, each side was prepared to argue the sentencing phase of the trial.

Everett said the mock trials provide an excellent opportunity to expose middle school students to deliberative proceedings and an unforgettable way to teach students history.

Shown, Saint James School eighth-grader Lauren Talkington addresses Ala. Supreme Court Associate Justice Kelli Wise and her classmates during a “mock trial” of The United States v. the Rosenbergs. Talkington played the role of a federal government prosecutor during the event, which was held in a courtroom in the Ala. Supreme Court Building.

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Hooper JV Cheerleaders Hold Beach Retreat

Hooper Academy junior varsity cheerleaders enjoyed a retreat in Orange Beach recently. From left are Madeline Maxwell, Anabeth Milstead, Abby Brasington, Laura Gravely, Coach Donna Maxwell, Charity Bowden, Jessika Wallace, Haley Reynolds and Ashley Jones.

“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” Philippians 4:13

CELEBRATING 12 YEARS OF SUCCESS! Three Catholic Students Qualify for National Merit

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School students Megan Karst, Zachary Hulcher and Giselle Simms have qualified for the National Merit Scholarship Program, which seeks to identify and honor academically talented young people across the nation.

Of the 1.5 million entrants, some 50,000 with the highest PSAT/ NMSQT Selection Index scores qualify for recognition in the National Merit Scholarship Program. High-scoring participants from every state are invited to name two colleges and universities to which they would like to be referred by the National Merit Scholarship Committee. In September, these high scorers are notified through their schools that they have qualified as either a Commended Student or Semifinalist.

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New Hope Takes Huntsville Field Trip

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On May 9, New Hope Academy students toured the U.S. Space and Rocket Center in Huntsville. The students toured the museum, participated in a hands-on lab, and watched an IMAX movie.

Many of them rode the Space Shot and the G-Force Accelerator!

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Montgomery Parents I July 2012

(334) 213-0803 • SACS Accredited 2328 Fairlane Drive • Montgomery, AL 36116 www.suacademy.com • K-12 23

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Regions Bank Partners With BrewTech Students

BrewTech students were able to get a lesson in Personal Finance and Workforce Readiness from the experts recently. Stephen Giles, a Regions Bank branch manager, and Becky Ellis, a Regions Bank recruitment officer, taught students in Mrs. Keeton’s Personal Finance class about the basics of finance and the do’s and don’ts in workplace etiquette. Their Powerpoint presentations were spot-on with what the students had already studied and learned. The enthusiasm of the Regions Bank Team captivated and kept the attention of the students.

Catholic’s Murray Commits To Huntingdon College

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s Travis Murray committed to play football at Huntingdon College this fall. The school held a special ceremony in the library. An offensive lineman for the Knights, Murray said he is looking forward to continuing his passion for the game at the college level with the Huntingdon Hawks.

Shown at the ceremony are grandfather Ray Leonard, mother Rebecca Murray, Travis Murray, father John Murray and sister Sarah Murray. Standing are Montgomery Catholic football coaching staff members Render Thomas, Hollis Johnson, head coach Mike Shatzer, Ken Klinger and Wes Henderson. www.montgomeryparents.com

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STJ Student Wins Award In Block Print Contest

STJ sixth-grader George Whitman Kent took third place in the national Dick Blick 2012 Linoleum Block Print Contest. For his showing in the Grade 4-6 Division, Kent won $150 in supplies for STJ’s art department. The 15 national student winners, chosen from thousands of entries, also won walnutmounted plaques for themselves. All winners are posted on www.artsonia. com, the world’s largest student art museum.

AISA Awards Edgewood Class AA Chairman’s Honor

The Alabama Independent School Association announces that Edgewood Academy is the recipient of the AISA Class AA Chairman’s Award for the 2011-2012 school year. The Chairman’s Award was established by the AISA for the specific purpose of recognizing member schools that achieve athletic excellence during the school year. This award also serves as a symbol of recognition to the individuals who have given unselfishly of their time to serve as Chairperson of the Alabama Independent School Association Athletic Committee. The criteria for winning the AISA Chairman’s Award includes achievement in all areas of the school’s athletic programs: state champions in all sports, All-Star Selection, scholarship, participation in different sports, finishing in the top four in State Play-offs, sportsmanship, student-athlete award, and no eligibility problems.

The AISA has been steadfast in its efforts since 1970 to maintain an organization of independently operated non-public schools that are rich in diversity, committed to athletic excellence, and deeply concerned about the growth and development of children and youth. The association’s goal is to provide quality athletic opportunities for those parents choosing an alternative to public education.

This is the fourth consecutive year Edgewood Academy has won this award.

“This honor is a recognition of the outstanding student athletes that we have at Edgewood, and our outstanding coaching staff,” said Head of School Frankie Mitchum.

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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Sunday, August 5th & Monday, August 6th, 2012 H 7:30pm Riverwalk Amphitheater H Free Admission H 241-2590 Season Sponsor

Performance Sponsors

City of Montgomery with additional support of BBVA Compass • Chick-fil-A on site Monday only This performance is made possible by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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www.montgomeryparents.com

Prattville Cheerleaders Chosen All-Americans

Evangel Sets Sail for Spring Formal

The junior and senior classes at Evangel Christian Academy recently held their annual spring formal. This year the students were excited to hold the special event on the Harriott II riverboat in Montgomery.

The group had a memorable evening as they dined and listened to music on their voyage under the stars.

From left, Gabrielle Johnson, Brooklyn Hollon, Makayla Logan, Katlyn Dean and Macey Thigpen from Prattville Junior High School are part of a select group of cheerleaders and dancers chosen as All-Americans during Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) and Universal Dance Association (UDA) summer camps across the country. All-Americans are selected via tryout based on either superior cheerleading or dance skills. These girls are five of more than 500 elementary, junior high and high school cheerleaders from across the country that are invited to perform in the UCA/UDA Thanksgiving Tour at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando.

Only the top 12 percent of the cheerleaders and dancers from UCA or UDA camps earn the chance to march in a holiday parade of this caliber. They will be able to perform with the UCA/UDA All-Americans group in the pre-parade at the Magic Kingdom Park on Thanksgiving Day. Each girl received a medallion, a certificate, and a patch to commemorate her accomplishments. The Varsity All-American program is celebrating its 25th year of choosing camp standouts. For more information, visit www.varsity.com.

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Holy Cross Episcopal School sixth grade performed A Midsummer Night’s Dream for Kids on April 28. The Alabama Shakespeare Garden was the perfect place for fairies and magic! The sixth-grade students had been working with Shakespeare actor Craig Hanson in preparation for their production.

The show was a wonderful rendition of Shakespeare’s play geared specifically for a younger audience. The story features four royals who are having love problems: Demetrius (Jack Mozingo), Helena (Anna Nutting), Lysander (Jonathan Henderson), and Hermia (Lauren Oates). The love issues are complicated by the fairy world which intervenes through the antics of Puck (Chandler Armagost). Puck’s antics also affect the lives of the mechanicals who are preparing entertainment for the Duke’s wedding.

Other cast members included Elliot Steinwinder (Duke Theseus), Cherishe Long (Queen Hippolyta), William Fritz (Egeus), Gabe Lewandowski (Fairy King Oberon), Aiken Hamlett (Fairy Queen Titania). Mechanicals were J.B and Hawthorne Ramsey as Nick Bottom, Hunter Broadfoot as Peter Quince, Zachary Graves as Starveling, Fred Tippett as Tom Snout, Maggie Zaner as Francis Flute and John Faulkner as Snug.

The performance also featured Holy Cross students of the Montgomery Ballet. The students were instructed by Cassandra Power. The lovely ballerinas portrayed the fairy helpers for Queen Titania who lulled her to sleep. Ballerinas included Claire Gary, Emma Golfos, Caroline Gregory, Addison Hatley, Isabella Hill, Elena Mannion, Bebe Neeley, Kate Richie, Isabelle Rutland and Gabrielle Woodham.

Shown, Helena (Anna Nutting) has two men fighting over her – Lysander (Jonathan Henderson) and Demetrius (Jack Mozingo).

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Holy Cross Sixth Grade Performs ‘A Midsummer Night’s Dream for Kids’

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MA Girls’ Soccer Team Wins 2nd State Championship

The Girls’ Varsity Soccer team completed the 2012 season as Class 1A-3A state champions for the second straight year and for the third time in school history, having won it in 2001. The Eagles ended the season with 124 goals in 28 matches and a record of 22-6. All six losses came against Class 6A competition.

The 22 players on this team came to practice each day with one goal in mind: to repeat as state champions. Their team slogan for the season was “To win takes talent, to repeat takes character” and their willingness to work hard allowed them to achieve just that. In the game that decided the state championship, the Eagles found themselves in an extremely tough game against a very evenly matched Randolph team. However, due to the leadership of experienced captains Erin Katz and Nini Rabsatt-Smith, the team endured and won the game 1 to 0. With 24 seconds remaining in the contest and the game tied at zero, Rabsatt-Smith scored a goal off a free kick to send Academy fans into a frenzy. The future looks bright for the Girls’ Varsity Soccer team as the Eagles have several returning players and promising newcomers.

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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Pre-Registration Soaring At Success Unlimited

Pre-registration for Fall 2012-2013 is well underway and spaces are quickly filling up at Success Unlimited Academy.

“We are experiencing a huge increase over last year’s preenrollment numbers,” said Director of Finance Pam Johnson.

“During a time of economic uncertainty, it is humbling to meet so many new families willing to make the necessary sacrifices to ensure a solid foundation for their child’s future.

“My son, Jamal Johnson, completed his first year at Success as a sixth-grader,” Johnson also commented. “I have watched his self-confidence and joy for learning blossom this year. In the past, he always felt a little behind his peers. Now, he challenges himself to improve every day. Working at Success is a pleasure, but experiencing Success at home makes every day a blessing.”

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Forest Avenue Performs Community Service

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Forest Avenue Academic Magnet fourthgrade trio classes chose to perform community service by cleaning up the rocks that had come out of the playground area at the school. This was part of their character education focus. They integrated this activity into math by estimating and weighing the buckets. Teachers were Mrs. Offord, Mrs. Atcheson and Mrs. Viars.

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Catholic Honors Students at Awards Ceremony

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Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School recently honored its top high school students at the annual Academic Awards Ceremony held in the Dolly Barranco Activity Center. Many honors were bestowed including the most outstanding student in each subject area. These students were Barbara Bradley in Foreign Language and English, Josh Stark in Science, Joseph Sutton in Social Studies, Lexie Segrest in Theology, Joseph Sutton in the area of Performing Arts, Zach Hulcher in Mathematics, and David Norris in Technology.

The senior members of the Loretto chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) were recognized, as well as the newest members of NHS, during the ceremony. Michael Moussalli and Maddie O’Mara were recognized for their membership in the National French Honor Society.

During the course of the school year, many students participated in academic competitions and were recognized for their successes. Six students participated in the National French Contest and ranked 34th or above for students across the United States and 28th or above in the state of Alabama: Derek Kelly and Monica Poole for French I; and Maddie O’Mara and Willie Ravelo in French II. Two French III students ranked both on a state and national level are Michael Moussalli and Megan Karst.

Moussalli ranked 15th in the state and 19th in the U.S. and Karst ranked 16th in the state and 20th in the U.S. Montgomery Catholic’s award-winning Science Olympiad team was recognized. Certificates were given to Zach Hulcher and Maddie O’Mara for their success at the state Science Olympiad competition. Both Hulcher and O’Mara received $11,000 renewable scholarships to Huntingdon College for their top placement in the Dynamic Planet competition.

Montgomery Catholic had 90 students who participated in the American Mathematics Competition (AMC) 10 and 12 this year.

Mandy Jones, Willie Ravelo, Jinah Kim, Linda Zhang and Forest Phillips were recognized for their top scores on the AMC. Montgomery Catholic’s Key Club members accumulated more than 3,000 service hours to the Montgomery community this year. Nine students gave more than 50 hours of their time during this school year. They were Anna Vail Chancey, Katherine Terino, Jasmine Rush, Jarrett Mason, Sarabeth Parker, Michaela Armstrong, Dylan Craig, Andrea Hayes and Derek Kelly.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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Students who have the largest increase in their grade-point averages from the first semester of the previous year to the end of the first semester of the current year are recognized as the Most Improved Students in the sophomore, junior, and senior grade levels. The most improved sophomore was Mary Grace Brown; most improved junior was Jinah Kim; and most improved senior was Steve Brown.

Students with the highest gradepoint average for each high school grade level were also recognized. The most outstanding freshman was Leo Petters; most outstanding sophomore was Maddie O’Mara; most outstanding junior was Zach Hulcher. The most outstanding senior and the Valedictorian for the class of 2012 was Kevin Norris, who was appointed to the United States Naval Academy.

Honor roll certificates for both the A and A/B honor rolls were given to those students who attained A or A/B honor roll throughout the school year for each grade level. The Joe Arban Perfect Attendance Award was given to Maddie O’Mara for her perfect attendance this year.

The evening culminated with two of the highest awards given at Montgomery Catholic: Leader of the Year and the Ideal Graduate. High School Principal Fran Taylor awarded the Montgomery Catholic Leader of the Year to Barbara Bradley, who has served the school in numerous leadership positions throughout her school career. President Anne Ceasar awarded the Montgomery Catholic Ideal Graduate to the student who embodied the overall qualities and talents of an ideal graduate.

Lexie Segrest was named as the Ideal Graduate at Montgomery Catholic. Segrest served in many leadership positions throughout her high school career.

At right are top students Kevin Norris, Zach Hulcher, Maddie O’Mara and Leo Petters.

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Above, Catholic’s Ideal Graduate Lexie Segrest with Anne Ceasar.

Below, Catholic’s Leader of the Year Barbara Bradley with Fran Taylor.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Hooper Academy Holds 2012 Junior/Senior Prom

Forest Avenue Beta Club Donates Cereal for Seniors

Forest Avenue Junior Beta Club members collected cereal for a donation to the “Food for Seniors” program. Beta Club members asked all students to donate and bring their boxes of cereal to the school for collection.

The Junior Beta Club is made of up fifthgrade students who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement. Jennifer Rodopoulos is the club sponsor.

Hooper Academy Junior/Senior Prom was held at the Alley Station in downtown Montgomery.

The theme of the prom was “Fall Into Me.” Junior class president Ashley Guy, along with the Prom committee, other classmates and several Hooper Academy parents and faculty members, planned and decorated for the event. The ceilings in the main ballroom were lined with gossamer and the tables were laid with linen cloths, which held a lovely centerpiece. The Studio at EastChase provided photography, and Al Steineker from The King’s Table catered the event.

Each attendee was given a specially designed cookie by Chrissie Schubert’s Homemade Treats of Andalusia, as well as a personalized glass and picture frame as a memento of this special evening. The students danced to the music of Porta Party DJ of Montgomery. The lead-out was held on the rooftop terrace where each senior girl was presented with a red rose. Beautiful white lights illuminated the stage as well as the surrounding trees. Seniors Ivy Watts and Andrew Lassiter were crowned Hooper Academy Class of 2012 Prom Queen and King.

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SUA Students Learn About Budgeting

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Holy Cross Field Day Celebrates Fitness and Fun

Classes at Holy Cross Episcopal School hold an outdoor Field Day each year with games like fill ‘er up, scooter races, doughnut eating contests, and The River! With soggy ground this year following rain, some events moved indoors such as balloon pop races, tug o’ war, and dance wars. Coach Matt Arrighi did a wonderful job of bringing together a day of sportsmanship and competitiveness.

The day also featured the awarding of National and Presidential Physical Fitness certificates. Students who were given the National Award performed in the top 50% of children nationwide in various physical feats, such as sit-ups, pull-ups, the shuttle run, and running a mile. There were 35 National Fitness Awards presented to students in grades 1-6. The Presidential Award winners scored in the top 15% of students nationwide in their age group. Coach Arrighi handed out 11 Presidential Fitness Awards during the ceremony.

“All of these students worked hard and accomplished great things as they pursued their fitness goals this year!” Coach Arrighi said after handing out the awards.

The 5th vs. 6th grade kickball game was postponed to the final day of 6th-grade exams due to muddy conditions. The 5th grade pulled out a nail-biter of a great game!

Artisia Peagler, seen here balancing a checkbook, learned about budgeting in Mrs. Morgan’s Consumer Mathematics class. Morgan allowed various students to assist her in writing out checks and paying bills such as Alabama Power and Water Works. During the Budgeting Unit, students worked on a project in which some students were “married” to each other, and they were asked to create real-life budgets accordingly.

Paying bills is just one aspect of budgeting that Morgan taught her students. “Even though most bills are being paid online and through other technology, I still feel that the skill of writing a check is an important one to have,” Morgan said.

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Catholic’s Dixon & LoBello Attend HOBY Conference

EastChase Rewards Local Classrooms with Supplies

The Shoppes at EastChase will contribute up to $1,000 to one area Montgomery Public School teacher through its Shoptimum Rewards program. Montgomery Public School teachers are asked to write an essay explaining why their classroom deserves $1,000.

The lucky teacher who wins first place in the essay contest, as well as the second- and third-place winners, will be announced on Saturday, August 4, during the tax-free weekend. Second- and third-place winners will receive gift cards to The Shoppes at EastChase.

During Shoptimum Rewards, happening July 30- August 5, customers receive a free $25 gift card when they spend a total of $250 or more across five qualifying stores or restaurants at The Shoppes at EastChase. For each Shoptimum Rewards redemption, the selected teacher’s classroom will receive a $5 donation.

Shoptimum Rewards receipts are redeemable at Guest Services and must be redeemed by 6 p.m. on Wednesday, August 8, to qualify toward the donation.

For more information on the essay contest and how to submit an essay, visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com.

Cole Dixon and Daniel LoBello represented Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School at Alabama’s Hugh O’Brien Youth (HOBY) Leadership Conference held at Troy University.

HOBY programs are conducted annually throughout the United States providing unique leadership training, service-learning, and motivational experiences for high school sophomores.

The core values focused on by the conferences are volunteerism, integrity, excellence, diversity and community partnerships, which strengthen relationships within their hometown.

Cole Dixon is the son of Daryl and Marcia Dixon of Pike Road. Daniel LoBello is the son of Dr. Steven and Donna LoBello of Montgomery.

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STJ Wins High School Golf Championship

Saint James School won the tenth annual Greater Montgomery High School Golf Championship at Cottonwood Golf Club April 5. The win was a first in school history. Students Walker Wise, Walker Carr, David Haven, Slade Methvin and Payton Marsh comprised STJ’s winning team.

After a 7-hour round (due to a two-and-a-half hour rain delay), Saint James fired a 324 to clip Trinity Presbyterian (326), Pratville High School (329) and Montgomery Academy (331).

The All-Tournament Team was Walker Wise (STJ), William Sellers (MA), Lee Madison (TPS), Shane Wright (ACA) and Davis Logan (TPS).

In addition to the boys’ win, seventh-grader Brooke Sansom finished second overall in the varsity girls’ division.

The STJ Boys’ and Girls’ Golf coach is Jeff McIntyre.

From left, STJ’s Boys’ Varsity Golf Team: Payton Marsh, David Haven, Coach Jeff McIntyre, Walker Wise, Walker Carr and Slade Methvin.

Evangel’s Sixth-Grade Class Graduates

Evangel Christian Academy’s sixth-grade class was promoted to junior high in a special ceremony May 24. Family, friends and Evangel’s elementary teachers attended the graduation ceremony. The sixth-grade class recited Bible verses and sang dedication songs to their parents and previous elementary teachers. During the presentation, the students gave their parents personalized gifts and tissues which they later needed during a special Powerpoint presentation honoring their parents. Valedictorian Chloe Britt and Salutatorian James Paterson each gave speeches marking this milestone in the students’ lives.

At the end of the ceremony, each student received a promotion to junior high certificate from teacher Tammy Cartee. Family and friends joined the students for a reception following the ceremony, where cake and punch were served and pictures were taken. Following tradition, the students were whisked away by a limousine which drove them around town.

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Hooper Varsity Cheerleaders Enjoy Beach Retreat

AUM Builds New Residence Hall

To better accommodate its growing campus, Auburn University at Montgomery has gained approval from the Auburn Board of Trustees to build a new residence hall. The 144,740-square-foot facility will include 140 units for a total of 293 beds, providing much-needed housing for a campus with two existing residence halls that have both been at-capacity for the past two years.

“This is an exciting time at Auburn Montgomery,” said Chancellor John G. Veres III. “This new residence hall will offer students comfortable living in a convenient location, with plenty of space to study, meet and socialize. In concert with our existing residence halls, the placement of this hall will create a residential community and outdoor common space for students that will help further enhance their quality of life. Along with the new Wellness Center opening this summer, this beautiful facility will also provide an attractive welcome to campus.”

Designed by Williams Blackstock Architects, the facility will include 148 suites divided into a variety of one-, twoand three-bedroom units. Student common areas will be distributed throughout the building with lounge and study spaces on each floor. A smaller, two-story commons wing will be located at the southeastern end of the residence hall and will include classrooms, conference space, recreation rooms, Residence Life offices and a student lounge.

The five-story building will be located on the east side of campus parallel to Taylor Road. The estimated cost of the project is $30 million, funded from the sale of bonds offset by student room and board fees. B.L. Harbert International has been selected to serve as construction manager on the project. Completion is planned for Fall 2013. www.montgomeryparents.com

Hooper Academy’s varsity cheerleaders enjoyed a retreat in Orange Beach recently.

From left are Ali Sikes, Mackenzi Hill, Kamy Cobb, Ashlyn Gaston, Coach Donna Maxwell, Khadra Findley, Ashley Guy, Morgan Maxwell and Abby Watts.

Trinity Welcomes New Athletic Director

Trinity Presbyterian School has appointed Harold Hilliard as athletic director. Hilliard succeeds Jim Tuley, who served as Trinity’s athletic director for the past 17 years.

Tuley fielded a total of 36 teams for the Wildcats and coached many sports throughout his years at Trinity, most recently as a varsity football assistant and the head coach for varsity track. He retired in June and plans to spend his time with the grandchildren and volunteer work.

“Jim’s service on behalf of Trinity has been exemplary,” said Head of School Bob Neu. “For the past 17 years, he set the tone for what is now a very competitive and successful athletic program. I enjoyed working with him for a variety of reasons—his athletic expertise being one—but his commitment to Christ is what I admire the most.”

Hilliard has had a distinguished career in education and athletics, assuming increasing levels of responsibility throughout his career. He began his career as the physical education department chair and strength and conditioning coordinator at The Lovett School in Atlanta. He then transitioned to Whitefield Academy where he served as assistant athletic director, physical education department chair, and strength and conditioning coordinator. Hilliard is also the co-founder/president and fitness director of Step It Up Fitness, an outdoor physical training company.

Hilliard holds an undergraduate degree in exercise physiology from Jacksonville State University and a Master’s Degree in organizational leadership from Shorter University. He also holds a Strength and Conditioning Specialist with Distinction (CSCS*D) certification from the National Strength and Conditioning Association and he is an RAA (registered athletic administrator). His wife is Christi, and their eight-year-old son Hayden will be a third-grader at Trinity this fall.

“Throughout my career, I have been committed to developing student-athletes to their maximum potential,” Hilliard said.

“One of my early priorities will be to collaborate with the entire Trinity community to ensure a cohesive team environment that is conducive to student-athlete growth and success both in and out of athletic competition. I look forward to joining Trinity as we continue to grow the strong tradition of Wildcat Athletics.”

Trinity School parents, alumni, faculty, and students welcomed Hilliard at a reception in the Upper School Library June 4.

“I am very excited about Harold and what he will do to build upon our outstanding athletic program,” said Neu. “With Trinity’s foundation already in place, the future is extremely bright.”

From left are Todd Parsons, Susan Clark, Christi Hilliard and Harold Hilliard.

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Academy Upper School Chorus Ends Successful Year

Kindles Arrive At Success Unlimited

The Success Unlimited Academy junior high classes were surprised by a recent visit from Principal Susan Alred, who brought a state-of-the-art technology tool for each student to utilize. After a school fundraiser and generous donations from SUA parents, the school was able to purchase a classroom set of Kindles. The seventh- and eighth-graders are the blessed students who will be able to “read” in style. SUA already uses SmartBoards in the classrooms, but with the new Kindles, each student will be able to have the library at their fingertips. Thank you, PTA and parents, for this gift!

The Montgomery Academy Upper School Chorus had another exciting school year under the direction of Damion Womack and accompanied by Dr. Sallye York.

In February, the chorus traveled to Louisiana, performing at St. Mary’s Church in Lafayette and Louisiana State University in Baton Rouge. During the stay at LSU, the chorus had the opportunity to hear the LSU Acapella Chorus under the baton of Dr. Kenneth Fulton, director of choral studies and one of the most respected conductors in the South. In addition, while in New Orleans, the group performed at St. George Episcopal School and Isidore Newman School.

In April, the chorus traveled to San Francisco, where students performed at Stanford University, Grace Cathedral and St. Mary’s Cathedral. Members also participated in a choral clinic with Mathew Oltman, the music director of Chanticleer, one of the most well-known professional choral ensembles in the nation. Additionally, they attended a concert given by the University of California at Berkley Concert Choir.

The chorus continues to garner the highest awards at state competition. As it has been for the past eleven consecutive years, the chorus again received all “Superior” ratings at the Choral Music Performance State Assessment held in Birmingham.

Next year the chorus will compete in New York and North Carolina.

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A SUA Achievers Create Funky Junk Art

The Achievement Class at Success Unlimited Academy worked for several weeks on the class entry for the Funky Junk art contest sponsored by the Montgomery Clean City Commission. It was finally decided that the class would create a bear. Students collected all the discarded supplies they would need to make the bear: coffee cans, paper towel holders, toilet paper holders, a large round container, Styrofoam cup, Sprite can, can pop tops, and lastly dog hair. They had a fun time putting it all together, although the hardest part was getting the dog hair to stay on the bear.

When the bear was completed, a name had to be chosen. Shelby Bullen came up with the name Boo Boo. Since he was trying to get honey from the bee hive next to him, the title became “Boo Boo Honey Hunting.”

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ACA Cheer Squads Enjoy Successful Camp

In June, the Alabama Christian Academy 2012-2013 varsity, junior varsity and middle school cheer teams attended a cheer camp held by a professional UCA staff at Auburn University. Each squad is to come with its own individual home pom routine, which is used to compete with the other squads the first night of camp. In ACA’s case, the varsity squad came in second, JV first and Middle School fourth.

During the rest of the week of camp, the squads are taught valuable techniques, stunts, cheers and an extreme dance routine, which they have to incorporate into their own stunts, tumbling and dance at the end. On the last day, each squad is to present a cheer and the extreme routine, which allows each team to show off everything they have learned during the week at camp. ACA’s varsity squad finished first place in the extreme routine and cheer. The JV squad got first in extreme and second in cheer. Last but not least, the Middle School received first in extreme and second in cheer.

Marley Jacobs, Haidyn Tanner, Alex Thornton, Peyton Northington and Allison Spencer were chosen All Americans.

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Academy Golf Team Defends State Championship

The Montgomery Academy Varsity Golf Team won a ninth state championship on May 15 when the team successfully defended its title at the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s (AHSAA) Class 3A state tournament at the Robert Trent Jones Grand National Golf Course in Opelika. This year’s team consisted of two seniors: Will Canary and William Sellers, one junior: Garrett Laurie; and two freshmen: Wells Hooper and Brock Trulove.

The team competed against some heady competition during the season, failing to win a tournament until the state finals.

Led by 3A State Individual Champion William Sellers, the team maintained composure during a tumultuous early season stretch. Their ability to weather a “subpar” start allowed them to gain much-needed confidence during the final weeks of the season. Maintaining focus and playing their best golf when it counted most helped the team battle stiff competition from Trinity, Lauderdale County and Randolph during the state finals.

Winning by 28 strokes, the team managed to post the lowest team score both days of the tournament, including Williams Sellers’ tournament best 139 and Wells Hooper’s 142.

Forest Avenue Garden Re-dedicated with New Sign

Lilly’s Garden, named in memory of Lilly Thompson, a former student at Forest Avenue Academic Magnet, is located on the northwest corner of Forest Avenue property. This garden was re-dedicated on May 14. Judge Myron Thompson, Ann Oldham and other family members were special guests. Other guests included members of the Master Gardeners Association and the Jack and Jill Clubs. A sign was donated by the Student Council and was placed at the garden entrance. This is an outdoor classroom area that teachers are able to use as an extension of the regular “in-school” locations.

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B Fo Evangel’s Kindergarten Holds Graduation Vickie Cole’s K5 class at Evangel Christian Academy culminated with an end-of-the-year program and graduation ceremony. The program started with the students reciting Bible verses and songs. The audience then enjoyed a visit from various Bible characters. The children also shared math skills, reading rules, and the process by which they learned to read through songs and skits.

At the end of the program, the eager kindergartners sang “Movin’ on Up” in which they told everyone of their excitement of going to first grade. After their grand finale, the class left to change into their caps and gowns. While the students were changing, the parents enjoyed a video presentation about kindergarten life and another presentation celebrating the students from birth to graduation.

When the videos were over, the misty-eyed parents were given their first glimpse of their children in their caps and gowns. The proud graduates marched in as their parents rose to honor them. When all of the children were present on stage, the teacher presented the Graduating Class of 2012 and the audience roared in applause. The students were then recognized for their individual accomplishments and each graduate was given a trophy and a graduation ring. After the ceremony, the students and their parents celebrated with a special reception.

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MA Girls’ Tennis Team Wins Fifth Championship

During Spring 2012, The Montgomery Academy Girls’ Varsity Tennis team enjoyed another successful season, winning nine of 11 matches and repeating to win another State Championship! This accomplishment makes five state titles in a row for a team that has not changed

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its basic line-up in five years. The top six players at the state tournament were Hollan Smith, Mary Elizabeth Massey, Gretchen Lee, Ann Kathryn Parrish, Lee Ellen Bryan and Brittany Briddell, along with alternates Barton Crum and Frances Freeman. Hannah Snider, who won a Top 6 spot this spring, suffered a season-ending injury during a match with Trinity.

The team traveled often to find excellent opponents and competition. Their only losses were to Mountain Brook, the Class 6A State Champion, and to Vestavia Hills High School, the 6A State Finalist. While Randolph School became the school to beat in the 1A-3A state tournament, the Academy already had a regular season win against them. MA girls won the state title with 67 points to Randolph’s 51.

For the second year, the team selected Hollan Smith and Mary Elizabeth Massey as their captains. Both girls continue to set a high standard for competitiveness on the court while displaying excellent sportsmanship and leading the team by example.

While two of the team’s top players, Ann Kathryn Parrish and Brittany Briddell, graduated this year, the future is bright for next year as the team returns a strong lineup with younger talent still coming in!

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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Board Explores Options For Middle School Athletics

The Montgomery County Board of Education is exploring a cost-saving option projected to save the district’s middle school athletics program more than $145,000 for the 2012-2013 school year.

Superintendent Barbara Thompson and Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Support Lewis Washington outlined the benefits of the option during a special called board meeting, which included consolidating coaching positions, reducing transportation costs, making the student participation fee consistent across schools, and eliminating golf as a competitive sport.

For the 2011-2012 year, the district spent more than $416,000 for salaries and benefits, transportation, equipment and supply costs associated with middle school athletics. Under the new option, 20122013 costs are projected at $271,523.

Washington said the option also includes a modest $15 increase in the student participation fee from $35 to $50.

The move establishes a consistent student participation fee for athletics and is expected to generate $55,000 in additional revenue to support middle school athletics.

The plan also requires coaches to become licensed to transport students to games and would change the start times for basketball and football contests. “By changing game times and requiring our coaches to obtain a CDL license, we will reduce our transportation costs by $13,000 and eliminate the need for additional drivers,” Washington said.

Superintendent Thompson said the option has additional benefits. “Scheduling the football games on Saturday mornings will hopefully attract more families and the community to our games. That keeps parents and the community involved and also helps generate additional revenue from ticket sales and concessions.”

MPS currently receives $416,996 from the city of Montgomery to fund middle school athletics, but that funding is not guaranteed, said Thompson. She said school staff has worked very hard to find solutions that will keep middle school athletics viable.

“For the past several months we’ve looked at a number of ways to sustain our middle school athletics while balancing our budget priorities,” added Thompson. “For now, this cost-saving option gives us the flexibility we’ll need in the event we lose funding or are faced with additional proration.”

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C 2012 Holy Cross Graduates Will Continue to Shine

Evangel Holds Annual Art Show

Evangel Christian Academy recently held its annual art show sponsored by PTF. Students from kindergarten through high school were invited to participate. The “Best in Show” award was presented to Sarah Baxley, above. First- and secondplace winners advanced to represent the school in the AISA district art show.

In the Lower Elementary Division, there were several winners in various categories. These included: Amaya Ruiz, Destiny McGraw, Owen Perkins, Trinity McGraw, Jailyn Dixon, Evan Rawlins, Sarah Paterson, Allyssa Thornton, Emma Neal, Jordan Jenkins, Julienne Pharrams, Rebecca Peters, Kendall Hardaway, Monica Jennings, Meghan Pope, Arrange Clemons, Bailey Houser, Hailey Andrews, and Avery Mims.

In the Upper Elementary Division the winners were: Jace Lavan, Taisja Williams, Micah Brown, Daniel King, Kenadie Carter, Logan Temple, Gavin Grady, Anne-ware Knockemus, Ethan Britt, La’Tasia Feagin, Chloe Britt and James Patterson.

Junior High winners were: Dennis Yang, David Whitlow, Madolyn Mayberry, Breonna Walker, Keandra Lee, David Colson, and Jacob Jinright. The winners in the High School division included Jay Grice, Sarah Baxley, Keling Sexton, Mary Beth Peters, Megan Carmack, Allison Berg, Latrina Kelly, Hannah McClennan, Brandon Scott, Rachel Gilbert, Mike Walker, Copeland Bush and Raevan Harris. www.montgomeryparents.com

On May 24, Holy Cross Episcopal School celebrated its Kindergarten Graduation, Closing Chapel, and 6th Grade Graduation.

The Kindergarten Graduation Service is a special event for these students as they graduate to first grade and all-day school. This is a big step for small feet! After the graduation ceremony, the students were treated to a reception featuring cake and other yummy edibles.

The 6th grade graduation is always a special service where the Holy Cross Family gets to show the students just how much they have been loved over the years. The service is a combination of worship and graduation. This year’s graduation speaker, Matt Arrighi, spoke on the promises God makes to us all about a happy life and future if we follow in His pathways. After the students were presented with their certificates, a reception was held in their honor, featuring a slide show which followed their life at Holy Cross over the years.

This group of graduates will proceed to other schools for 7th grade, and are excited to shine their lights in their new school homes. This year’s 6th grade class has students who will be attending Alabama School of Fine Arts in Birmingham, St. James, Trinity, Montgomery Catholic, Hooper Academy and Eastwood.

Holy Cross presents the graduating class of 2012: Chandler Armagost, Mya Averett, Maddie Bennett, Hunter Broadfoot, Karli Day, John Faulkner, William Fritz, Zachary Graves, Aiken Hamlett, Jonathan Henderson, Gabe Lewandowski, Cherishe Long, Jack Mozingo, Anna Nutting, Lauren Oates, Hawthorne Ramsey, J.B. Ramsey, Elliot Steinwinder, Fred Tippett, Maggie Tippett and Maggie Zaner.

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ACA Loses Three Beloved Teachers to Retirement

Three special people retired from Alabama Christian Academy this year, after dedicating and sacrificing many years of their lives at ACA. Alumni, students and faculty wish the best to Denise Ainsworth, Barbara Bondly and Mitzi Speigner.

“Mitzi’s organizational skills are impeccable,” said Doug Black about Speigner.

“She keeps all the elementary teachers informed of their duties and commitments and that includes myself. God has stayed in the forefront of her life through the mountaintops and valleys of her Christian walk.”

Rachel Phillips (class of 1996) has a very special memory of Coach Ainsworth: “The one thing that I remember most (in 10th grade Health) was an assignment about self-esteem.

She had everyone bring a poster board and markers to class. Each poster board had someone’s name. The class went around using the markers to write positive, encouraging messages about the person on each one. I still have mine to this day.”

Madison King (class of 2012) said of Bondly: “Throughout her years of dedication to ACA, Mrs. Bondly has instilled not only academic knowledge into her students, but also spiritual knowledge of following God throughout the rest of their years at ACA and the rest of their lives.”

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Catholic Art Students Help Food Bank

Art students from Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School participated in the 5th Annual Empty Bowls Project, a fundraiser for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Empty Bowls began many years ago as an art assignment at a high school in Michigan to raise money for their local food bank through the crafting of ceramic pottery bowls. From there, the project caught on in communities across the country.

Montgomery artist and potter Margaret Barber was asked to contribute her works to an Empty Bowls project in another community for several years. Barber began Montgomery’s Empty Bowls Project for the Montgomery Area Food Bank five years ago and it continues to grow each year.

Art students from several high schools in the area created and donated hand-crafted bowls for the event. Montgomery Catholic students have participated for several years. This year, in addition to their artistic donations, ten students also volunteered to serve at the event with their art instructor, Joane Grant.

Shown, Montgomery Catholic’s Hayden Ellis serves soup at the 5th Annual Empty Bowls Project.

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SUA Holds First National Honor Society Induction Ceremony

Success Unlimited Academy held its first induction ceremony for its charter chapter of the National Honor Society. Fourteen students were inducted in a ceremony held on March 12. Members were selected by the chapter’s faculty council for meeting high standards of scholarship, service, leadership and character.

Students inducted were: Lauren Flournoy, Sarah Godbee, Calen Henry, La’Tonia Norman, Franchezaka Ricard, Anthony Rogers, Alex Vainstein, Brittini Bean, Tiffany Cleary, John Aaron Ervin, Aleena Jackson, Jonathan Lanier, Jessica Lylerly and Timothy Mallinson.

“We are very proud to recognize these outstanding members of our student body. National Honor Society members are chosen for and then expected to continue their exemplary contributions to the school and the community,” said Lissa Blankinship, chapter adviser at SUA.

Dr. R. Lawson Bryan Senior Minister

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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MA Boys’ Tennis Team Wins State Championship Throughout the years, The Montgomery Academy Varsity Boys’ Tennis team has produced a wealth of excellent individual tennis players, but one constant goal of the team has been to win the state championship. In the past 19 years, the boys’ team has won 11 state championships and been runner-up seven times. This constant pursuit of excellence by players each year has helped produce one of the top tennis programs in the state.

The 2012 version of the Eagles has continued the success of past teams by winning the Class 1A-3A State Championship. With talented players at each of the six seeds, the Academy won state with balanced scoring from all positions allowing the team to take top honors by four points over Bayside Academy. Throughout the season, the boys’ tennis team played against 3A opponents as well as 5A and 6A teams, including winning a match against the Class 5A State Champion, Muscle Shoals. The team also participated in a tournament that included teams from Louisiana, Florida, Mississippi and Alabama.

With a young team consisting of one seventh-grader (Camp Spain); three eighth-graders (Bo Torbert, Allen Millsap and Clayton Muller); one freshman (Hunter

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Carroll); and two sophomores (Bonner McLemore and Guy Hood); and possessing excellent work ethics, the Eagles hope to continue the success of this year.

Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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High School Awards Day Recognizes STJ Students More than 150 Saint James students were recognized for their outstanding achievements at Awards Day on May 10, an annual event established to honor students who have strived throughout the school year to attain academic, athletic, or artistic excellence.

The numerous awards presented to the high school students included D.A.R. Good Citizenship: Madeline Pendley; Boys State Delegate: Josef Jackson; Girls State Delegate: Ashley Williamson; Yale Book Award: Reed O’Mara; Sewanee Book Award: Josef Jackson; SeabornReynolds Award: John Bradford; Most Outstanding YMCA Program Participant: Kaitlyn Theriot; YMCA Chandler Service Award: Hayley White; YMCA Most Outstanding Freshman: Margaret Ann Kreher; YMCA IPRYL Big Buddy of the Year: Kevin Varghese; STJ Spirit Award: Maegan Lee; English Department Achievement Award: Dewey Davis; Don Brewer Math Award: Dewey Davis; Mu Alpha Theta Scholarship: Austin Meadows; Engineer Choice Award: John Bradford; Math Department Achievement Award: Garrett Morton; Foreign Language Departmental Achievement

Award: Hee Won Son; History Department Achievement Award: Carter Lloyd; Science Department Achievement Award: Kathleen Cunningham; Carole Lillian James Award: Carter Lloyd; Bryant Jordan Outstanding Achievement Award Winner (Region 2, Class 4A): Austin Meadows; Laura Brunson Award: Jake Jabour; Sally Humphries/Class of 1980 Applied Sciences Scholarship: Dewey Davis; Meredith Bean Scholarship: Carlyn Watson; Saint James Citizenship Award: Madeline Pendley; and Blue/Gold Award Winners: Jake Jabour and Hayden Barnes. Several of the awards were accompanied by significant cash scholarships.

Particular attention was paid to STJ’s graduating class of 2012. The grand total for individual scholarships given by colleges and universities to STJ’s seniors – $2.8 – was announced during the proceedings. In addition, senior Dewey Davis was announced as the Class of 2012’s elected graduation speaker. The G. Stanley Frazier Award nominees—Graham Norwood, Dewey Davis and Matt Fields—were also named.

In addition to these honors, awards were presented to a number of students

participating in journalism, speech and debate, fine art, band, chorus, drama, and computer and technology.

Shown, Saint James School’s Class of 2012 selected senior Dewey Davis to address the class during STJ’s graduation ceremonies May 21. Davis, who will attend Cornell University in the fall, was selected for admission from 37,000 applicants for the freshman class. Cornell sent acceptance letters to only 6,000 in what administrators say is their most competitive year, ever. Davis (with Head of School Melba Richardson) is the son of Joe and Sharon Davis.

Appointments are necessary

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www.montgomeryparents.com

Holy Cross Holds Successful Low Country Boil On April 22, Holy Cross Episcopal School held its annual Low Country Boil and Auctions, sponsored by Bank Trust, Montgomery Cardiovascular, The Starke Agency and Sterling Bank. The breezy day did not stop the 400 attendees from coming and enjoying a fun afternoon under the big top tent. The silent auction filled with art, antiques, rugs, trips, spa treatments and much more had people bidding up and up in support of Holy Cross.

Judge Jimmy Pool kept people informed about the bidding as it went!

Some of the favorite items were classroom-theme baskets such as the 2nd grade’s Alabama and Auburn Baskets, the 6th grade Gardening Basket and the 5th grade Family Movie Night basket, just to name a few.

The live auction was even more entertaining as State Representa-

tive and Holy Cross Board Member Joe Hubbard kept the bidding going on items such as a Big Green Egg donated by AllSouth Appliance, a framed original photograph of the Holy Cross chapel by Elmore Inscoe DeMott, a flower arrangement by Lee & Lan Florists, and signed footballs for Alabama and Auburn fans alike.

The raffle drawing, always a huge hit, produced two winners. Rev. Robert Wisnewski drew the names for the winners. Jimmy and Lidia Navidad won the $500, while Michael and Jill Gregory won the $2,000. Both are Holy Cross families!

Besides the auctions, the evening had lots more to offer. Food was prepared by Philip Goodwyn and David Gadilhe, desserts by Karen Westhauser and her dessert committee, bartending provided by Radney

Ramsey and Michael Gregory, and musical entertainment provided by Brian Felder and Will O’Rear.

All monies raised support the school and its scholarship program!

Below from left, Bettie Scott, Bubba Trotman and Dora Haas bidding and visiting at Low Country Boil.

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St. Bede Kindergarten Releases Butterflies

Kindergarten students at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School finished their unit on the life cycle of butterflies by releasing them in their courtyard. Each child kept a butterfly journal as they progressed through the life cycle unit. The children enjoyed watching the butterflies develop in cocoons while learning about the life cycle process in the classroom.

Shown are kindergarten students in Debbie Redden’s class at Montgomery Catholic’s St. Bede Elementary Campus with their butterflies prior to release.

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Holy Cross Students Win National Fitness Awards

The Holy Cross Episcopal School physical education department works hard to promote physical fitness and good health habits while still having lots of fun! This concentration provides students with the tools they need for a healthy life. Coach Matt Arrighi enjoys putting together games and other activities which keep children active and healthy throughout the year.

As part of his program, Coach Arrighi has students compete for Presidential and National Physical Fitness levels. The students must achieve fitness goals in areas such as sit-ups, pull-ups, shuttle run, mile run and push-ups.

Students that perform in the top 15% nationwide are awarded the Presidential Fitness Award. Students who perform in the top 50% nationwide are awarded the National Fitness Award. Holy Cross students typically perform well and many reach one of these two goals. The students who participate are in grades 1-6.

This year the following students were awarded the Presidential Award: Benjamin Wilke, Christopher Long, Blair Huffman, Cole Armagost, Bradley Westhauser, Mitchell Davis, William Stewart, Chandler Armagost, Mya Averett and Maggie Zaner.

Holy Cross also represented well in the National Fitness Award category.

Students who were awarded the National Award included: Josie Stough, Ellie Pool, Cole Mozingo, Shelby Brightwell, Andy Barkalow, Gerrod Greem, Nicho McIntyre, Sidney Underwood, Olivia Cato, Erin McQueen, Clyde Mabry, Maggie Kinney, Madelyn Erdoes, Jack Mozingo, Aiken Hamlett, Wyn von Gal, Grace Scott, Brody Day, Austin Cato, Amber Grace Maddox, Margaret Ann McNeill, Gabriella Hernandez, Matthew Rice, Kendall Rice, Jacob Rice, Rhys Holifield, Tate Holified, Holland Mabry, Carter Chandler, Hanson Jacobs, Lauren Oates, Cherishe Long, Hunter Broadfoot, Fred Tippett, Hawthorne Ramsey, J.B. Ramsey, Karli Day and Anna Nutting.

Winners of the Presidential Fitness Awards are shown.

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STJ Speech & Debate Team Named State Champions

ACA Volunteer Retires

More than twenty years ago, Kay Swanner came to Alabama Christian Academy volunteering to help children learn to read. She faithfully came twice a week to the elementary since that time.

Teacher Lynn Smith first remembers Swanner coming in the fall of 1988 while she was still teaching third grade.

When Swanner was asked to give a reason for coming to volunteer at the school, her reply was, “I had worked myself out of a job at home because my youngest son had turned sixteen, gotten his license, and no longer needed me to be his chauffer.” Because she loved to read, she knew that she wanted to volunteer some way by helping others learn to read. For a while she helped adults at the literacy center achieve their GED. Her next step was to come to ACA since she lived close to the school. The rest became history as she helped both teachers and students.

Students clamored to go with Swanner to receive reading enrichment whether it was needed or not! Her calm, caring, and sweet disposition made her a weekly favorite. She helped teachers by filing papers, running copies, stuffing folders, and offering a kind and caring hand wherever there was a need.

Even though Swanner has no grandchildren of her own, she will quickly tell anyone who asks, that the hundreds of children she helped over the years at ACA are her grandchildren!

Swanner has left a legacy upon many lives through her service to ACA: not only better readers, but an example of kindness, compassion and a love of imparting knowledge. Thank you, Mrs. Swanner! www.montgomeryparents.com

After competing at the State Debate Tournament held at Prattville High School in early May, the Saint James School Forensics team returned to Montgomery with both the Prose and Poetry State Champions, the Alabama Debate Coach of the Year Award, and Second Place Overall wins in the Individual Events and Congressional Debate events.

Competitors from 15 Alabama schools participated in the State Tournament. Saint James School’s team consisted of ten speech and debate members, while other major teams had at least 20 participants, making the Second Place Overall wins even more significant.

Junior Meagan Ashner is the new State Champion in the Poetry category, performing several pieces about the “seasons of life” at the state competition. Abigail Greenberg, also a junior, was named the State Champion in Prose, performing her competitive entry “Best Friends” by Elisabeth Reuter.

“They are some of the most talented students I have had,” said STJ Debate Coach Dr. Ian Turnipseed. “Meagan has a raw ability to take anything she is given and make it believable. Abigail is so hard-working and determined that given any challenge in competition or life, she can more than likely overcome it.”

Dr. Turnipseed, a Saint James School alumnus (’00) and former STJ debate team member, was named Debate Coach of the Year at the State Tournament. A 15-year forensics veteran (ten as a competitor and five as a coach), he holds three state titles, one in Prose and two in Extemporaneous Speaking. In college, Turnipseed competed at Clemson University, in After Dinner Speaking, Persuasion, Informative Speaking, Rhetorical Criticism, Impromptu Speaking, and Extemporaneous Speaking at the American Forensics Association National Tournament and the National Forensic Association National Tournament. Turnipseed was named the 14th Best Speaker in the Nation in 2003. As a coach, he has guided national champions at the college level, had seven national qualifiers in the past two years at Saint James, and has had four state champions in two years.

In addition to the championship wins, several other members of the STJ Speech and Debate Team also had significant achievements: Branden Greenberg placed Second in Original Oratory and in Congressional Debate; Meagan Ashner placed Second in Dramatic Interpretation; Sahil Patel placed Third in International Extemporaneous Speaking; Maya Smith placed Third in Dramatic Interpretation as well as in Congressional Debate; Abigail Greenberg placed Fourth in Humorous Interpretation and also in Congressional Debate; Jessica Bozeman placed Fourth in After Dinner Speaking and also in Original Oratory; Carolyn Byrd placed Fourth in Prose; Branden Greenberg and Abigail Greenberg placed Fifth in Duo Interpretation; Meagan Ashner placed Fifth in Humorous Interpretation; and Maya Smith was the Presiding Officer in Congress.

From left, Coach Dr. Ian Turnipseed, Nathan McElvy, Carolyn Byrd, Justin Lee, Jessica Bozeman, Maya Smith, Abigail Greenberg, Sahil Patel, Meagan Ashner, Branden Greenberg and Alex Pattie.

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Travel Games and Gear for Kids

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

The excitement and high-level anticipation that kids experience before a big trip can take a serious nose-dive when they encounter the realities of being “underway”. The monotony that can set in during long drives, flight layovers and hotel room down time can be a vacation killer for little ones.

Planning ahead to bring gear and games that accommodate a child’s travel experience can turn the trials of travel into the trip of a lifetime. Check out the following stuff that keeps kids on the move and in the travel groove en route!

by Paige Gardner Smith

Travel Buddies Luggage Set

Kids Travel: A Backseat Survival Guide

Packing up is half the fun of getting ready for a trip. Finding fun luggage to transport a child’s worldly goods will amp up the excitement and encourage them to take responsibility for their own stuff while wheeling through airports, parking lots and hotel hallways. Travel Buddies luggage set includes both a roomie hard-shell wheelie suitcase with dual-height retractable handle AND a matching backpack for the things that need to be easily accessible. With bright and enchanting graphics featuring penguins, ladybugs and aliens, this tough little luggage set is a guaranteed attention-getter as kids pull their own travel weight in style.

About thirty minutes into a long trip, kids are quick to ask the question, “Are we there yet?” And so the backseat boredom begins. Keeping young ones entertained during a long drive or flight is easy (and educational) with ‘Kids Travel: A Backseat Survival Guide’ from Klutz. Filled with games and activities (plus everything needed for each activity), kids can take travel-related challenges that use the passing world around them, or enjoy the 100-page game pad that will keep them entertained when the window views are less enchanting. Parents can get in on the games, too – but be warned: Collecting state license plates can be addictive and younger kids play a seriously cut-throat game of Punchbuggie.

(Trendykid)

(Klutz)

Seat Belt Snoozer Car Pillow

Kids Wired Headphones (Kidz Gear)

For kids who can use a bit of dedicated listening (and sparing parents who really cannot listen to the Kidz Bop CD for the 10,000th time), Kidz Gear headphones are the perfect fit for little heads and delicate ears. Easily plugged into music and video players, MP3 systems, game consoles and more – kids can enjoy music, sound effects, and all kinds of audio independently and safely.

Featuring a built-in volume control so parents can set the upper end of decibels delivered, kids can still adjust the sound within the set range. The adjustable head-set accommodates a broad size range of heads from toddler to pre-teen. Light weight and sturdy, the Kidz Gear headphones are a must-have accessory for happy, easy listening.

(One Step Ahead)

Sometimes the best way for kids to weather travel time is to take a good snooze in the back seat. But for parents who have seen the cramped, crumpled results of a child trying to catch forty winks without proper support, the Seat Belt Snoozer can save kids from the stiff neck and grumpy after-effects of a fitful and failed car nap. Designed for the booster-seat age child, the Snoozer curves gently across the shoulder, anchored by the seatbelt to catch lolling heads and provide a soft cushioned resting spot for tired, traveling noggins. With a removable, machine washable chenille cover, the Snoozer car pillow will support sweeter dreams and gentle tempers on the road to adventure.

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

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Bust a Mood

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3 Strategies to Calm Beastly Moods

by Michele Ranard, M.Ed. ”Nothing helps a bad mood like spreading it around.”

--Bill Watterson We all have moods. In childhood, there are those unicorn, rainbow, cotton candy, smiley ones, and there are the beastly ones.

Meltdown mahem at Macy’s. Bedtime blow-ups. Tantrums over tuna. Adolescents are also famous for occasionally getting their panties in a bunch...ahem.

Behind every spirited child in distress is a parent secretly wishing to be sedated.

Okay, the last part may just be me, but sometimes the moods of our children shift so swiftly and fiercely from cheer to rage, we’re left dazed and confused. Kids don’t grow out of bad moods like they do shoes.

So let’s explore some common ‘very bad mood’ triggers and tips for how to avoid them. www.montgomeryparents.com

Why Terrible Horrible Moods Happen to Good Children

*Exhaustion. Hello? Sleep deprivation makes children of all ages emotionally weird and less resilient. Teens especially must get enough shut eye!

*Changes in routine. All parents get this intellectually, yet still we are caught off guard when our kids react to change with distress. “But you said we’d get ice cream right after school!” (Can you feel the power of those words like nails on a chalkboard?) WE think they must learn to go with the flow. THEY want predictable outcomes.

*Tummies growlin’. The tricky part

*Overstimulation. Too much of a

good thing can be lovely…and it can be bad. Real bad. Noise, interference, and stimulation in a child’s surroundings can cause increased irritability. And unfortunately, children often don’t realize it’s the ENVIRONMENT making them edgy and grumpy.

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about cranky, hungry kids? They can be extremely resistant to acknowledging their hunger. You have to do the thinking and be armed with snacks especially when away from home.

*Growing pains. Yep. Blame it on hormones. Physical and neurological growth can cause children to be moody. Let’s keep reminding each other about this one, deal? *Injustice. “Hey! Sophie got a bigger slice!” Even if Sophie didn’t get the sizeable helping, perceiving she did can trigger a nasty mood.

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Bust a Mood 1) Look to children’s literature.

Sharing a book is one way to connect with kids in a discussion of moods.

Remember little Alexander from Alexander and the Horrible Very Bad Day? Poor guy can’t even get away from his bad day when he settles down for the night. He bites his tongue, and the cat deserts him!

But there is someone there to bust his mood. Fortunately, he has a parent who reassures that everyone has bad days.

Another title combining a silly sense of humor with grouchy feelings is Big Rabbit’s Bad Mood, by Ramona Badescu.

Laughter is good medicine for monstrous bad moods.

ance in the form of quality attention for at least 20 minutes daily (ideally, more time than that).

• Soak up the sunshine. Children need to build up a positive emotional memory so they can access those happy places when life isn’t going smoothly. Dr. Hanson suggests spending a few minutes at bedtime reviewing all the things that make her feel good and reminding her to savor those things.

2) Listen to the experts and their advice.

• Watch out for stress. Some moody kids have a hard time coping with stressors such as long days of childcare, overscheduling, and too-high expectations.

While we can’t eliminate stress for kids, be a good model of coping. Reassure them they don’t need to worry and teach strategies to calm themselves.

• One-on-one attention. Make sure your moody child is getting plenty of nurtur-

• Seek out objectivity. Frequently it helps to ask a teacher, family friend or counselor for an opinion about your child’s moods—is there a bully at school? Is it possible you are missing something?

Authors of Mother Nurture (2002), Rick and Jan Hanson, have excellent tips for easing sour moods.

• Assess their diet. Think about whether your child is eating enough protein or too much sugar. Make sure she is offered nutritious meals, consider vitamins, and watch for symptoms of food allergies.

• Take care of yourself. Don’t forget about your own needs for nurturance.

Moody kids can add up to lots of stress into the home, so take good care of your relationships and your own emotional well-being.

3) Do not underestimate the power of rest.

Bad moods hate a restful slumber.

Are you getting enough rest to cope with these moody children? You need your energy and stamina for these terrible, no good days! See a connection between sleepovers and your child’s bad mood?

Do everything in your power to promote better sleep habits for you and your family. mp Michele Ranard has a husband, two children, and a master’s in counseling.

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Capital City Streaks Teams Soar at Hoover Havoc & Trussville The Capital City Streaks U-9 & U-10 boys swept their brackets at the April 20-22 Hoover Havoc Tournament. The CCS U-9 White team came in first place in the Gold division, undefeated, with only one goal scored against them. The CCS U-9 Blue team came in first place in the Bronze division, undefeated, with three goals scored against them. The CCS U-10 boys team came in first place in the Gold division, undefeated, with two goals scored against them.

The three teams combined scored a total of 86 goals in nine games. During the Hoover Havoc, the opposing coach awarded a player an MVP patch after each game. The players awarded these patches were Ian Cuenco, Kareem Salameh and Clisby Berry from U-9 White; Landon Lee, Ben Harris and Alex Kohn from U-9 Blue; and Femi Adejiji, Cobi Keel and Michael Russo from U-10.

The very next weekend, the teams competed and placed in the Trussville United Classic on April 27-29. The CCS U-9 White team played in the Gold Bracket, and came in first place, staying undefeated, scoring 20 goals, with zero scored against. The CCS U-9 Blue team played in the Silver Bracket and won three

games and tied the first-place team in the fourth game. Because of the tie, they came in second place with 14 goals scored, three scored against. The CCS U-10 boys came in first place after going undefeated in all four games, scoring 38 goals, with three goals scored against.

Members of CCS U-9 White are Ian Cuenco, Clisby Berry, Lucas Rizzo, Kareem Salameh, Kolbe Russo, Gavin

Baugh and Ben Thackston. Members of CCS U-9 Blue are Spencer Madore, Gabe Russo, Ben Harris, Jordan Julian, Landon Lee, Alex Kohn and Noble Sefton. Members of CCS U-10 are Austin Lin, Thomas Rizzo, Femi Adejiji, Austin Taylor, Andrew Lin, Bryan Shim, Cobi Keel, Michael Russo and Zack Pappanastos. Coaches are Chris Blight and Henrique Rizzo.

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DAR Honors ‘Old Glory’ on Flag Day

Flag Day is a celebration of the adoption of the American flag by Continental Congress in the First Flag Resolution of June 14, 1777. Although the 235-year anniversary of this date was celebrated by flying flags on public buildings and holding remembrances in many cities, Flag Day wasn’t officially recognized until President Harry Truman signed it into law in 1949.

President Truman officially recognized June 14 as Flag Day, and for 63 years the local chapters of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution have been celebrating Flag Day. The four Montgomery chapters are the Peter Forney, Francis Marion, Anne Phillips and Captain William Bibb. Working together, they organize and plan the Flag Day Luncheon through the Regents Council of Montgomery with responsibilities rotating between the chapters. The gathering, a celebration of Patriotic songs and speakers, was held at the Montgomery Country Club.

Keynote speaker, Col. Larry Cornwell, USAF, Ret, currently National Genealogist General, National Society Sons of the American Revolution dressed as an officer in the American Revolution, brought “The Christian Faith of our Patriotic Ancestors” to life. Col. Cornwell using direct quotes from the founding fathers each speaking of not only their strong Christian faith but their belief that God had a strong hand in creating our country. Patrick Henry mentioned God five times in his “Give me Liberty or Give me Death” speech.

Margie Warden, Presiding Officer, passed the gavel over to Elizabeth Gillian and the oath of office was administered

by State Regent Rita Horton. Incoming Montgomery Regents Council President Gilliam invited all to attend the 64th Flag Day Luncheon on June 14, 2013.

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www.montgomeryparents.com

A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

Baseball Books Round the Bases The sport that became iconic as ‘America’s pastime’ has provided a host of baseball idioms that permeate our everyday language. You can play in the ‘big league’, ‘batting 1000’ and be a ‘heavy hitter. Or you can be thrown a ‘curveball’, be way ‘off base’ or ‘strike out’. Knowledge and appreciation of baseball develops an understanding of the sport’s definitive effect on American culture and psyche.

This season’s bases are loaded with fantastic books for baseball players, fans and newbies to the sport! Check out the following titles that celebrate the game and really knock it out of the park.

Brothers at Bat

by Audrey Vernick, Illustrated by Steven Salerno (Houghton Mifflin / Clarion) The true story of an amazing all-brother baseball team, ‘Brothers at Bat’ relates the saga of the Acerras family who in the 1930s fielded twelve brothers with a deep-seated love for baseball. As kids they played ball during every free moment (even their four sisters joined in as they could). When they were old enough to play in the local league, they formed their own team with Dad as coach (who never missed a game) and traveled the region playing against other teams.

When the war came, the brothers joined the service, yet they all made it back home again to play as a team for many more years! A loving testament to family and a family’s loving testament to the game, this book’s vintage sensibilities feel like ‘Home Sweet Home’ for baseball lovers.

ABCs of Baseball

by Peter Golenbock, Illustrated by Dan Andreasen (Penguin / Dial) In a sport that is rife with so many expressions, terms and idioms, having a kids’ book that explains it all in a simple, easy-to-digest format brings the game home to roost with the ‘ABCs of Baseball’. Each fully illustrated two-page spread features one to two letters of the alphabet with several baseball terms (beginning with that letter) and an explanation of each. For example, the letter ‘C’ includes ‘coaches’ ‘Cracker Jack’, Cartwright’ (as in Alexander C., the inventor of baseball) and ‘can of corn’ (an easy catch by a fielder – who knew?). Grow your child’s baseball knowledge (and your own) and get your game on with this colorful and informative title!

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by Jeff Newman (Simon & Schuster) Using an informal baseball game in the park as the backdrop for a bigger story about inclusion and helping kids find friendship with others through shared interests, ‘The Boys’ is a charming wordless picture book that knocks it out of the park with its powerful message.

When a little boy, all geared up to play baseball, is too shy to approach the baseball-playing regulars in the park, he ends up hanging around with old men on a nearby park bench. As the shy little boy begins to slowly adopt their senior citizen style and habits, the old gentlemen come up with a plan to get this rookie off the bench and into the game.

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

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The Poisonous Truth

Snake Bites and the Danger They Bring to Pets As the weather gets warmer, activity in most species increases. This is also true for snakes. The River Region has a variety of snakes types that inhabit our region ranging from non venomous types like the chicken snake or king snake to the venomous types like the rattlesnake or water moccasin. Encountering a snake in the wild can be frightening for humans, but our pet’s reaction to a snake is often one without fear.

Although no specific detailed data on the number of dogs bitten or killed by venomous snakes in the Montgomery area exists, I see an increasing number of bites in my practice each year. In our area, rattle snakes and moccasins are the most common bites that inflict serious injuries to our pets. The most common injuries include disfiguration caused by tissue necrosis.

When venom enters a dog it contains toxic enzymes which begin to kill the tissue surrounding the bite. In some cases amputation of limbs is required due to the diminished function of the limb caused by the venom. Venom also causes inflammation, damage to blood vessels lining, clotting defects and neurotoxicity The most sever cases, unfortunately cause death.

There are several tips I give my clients each year to help offset the possibility of their special companion encountering a snake.

it may just be a mole or bird, it is best to play on the cautious side. Carefully approach your pet and remove him from the area. After he is confined, carefully inspect the area in question using a long stick or pole. Remember snakes bite humans, too.

Despite our efforts to prevent our companions from getting bit, sometimes it cannot be prevented. However, there are several factors that could mean the difference between life and death for your pet in the event a bite occurs. *If your pet gets bitten it is IMPERATIVE that you call your veterinarian IMMEDIATELY. Not all veterinarians see patients after hours. If you do not know your veterinarian’s emergency policy, it is critical that you find this out before a medical emergency occurs. Time is always critical with any snake bite. *If possible, try to identify some characteristics about the snake. What color was

it? How long was it? Did it have rattles present at the end of its tail? Did it have a diamond pattern on its back? This could be helpful for your veterinarian to determine his/her course of treatment. *Most importantly, try to stay calm. Being irrational or hysterical can deter from making good decisions in a crisis situation. Snakes like fleas, are a part of life in the south. Knowing how to prevent the potential for a snake bite is up to each pet owner. Pets of all breeds and sizes could cross paths with a poisonous snake at any time. However, pet owners can offset a potential disaster by knowing the warning signs of a snake’s presence and knowing what to do if a bite occurs.

Dr. Philip Mitchell has been practicing veterinary medicine for over 20 years at Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital. He owns seven four legged friends. Three are hunting dogs who have met with rattlesnakes and water moccasins during hunting excursions.

* Prevent the disaster before it happens.

If your pet is allowed in areas where poisonous snakes inhabit, talk with your veterinarian about getting the rattlesnake vaccine. * Do not allow your pet to dig inside holes, around logs, or brush piles. Even piles of debris can harbor snakes. * If hiking in a wooded area, always keep your dog on a leash or require him to walk beside you. * If your pet seems obsessively curious about something “hidden” in the shrubs, begins barking excessively at one area in your yard, or acting unusually hyper around an area in your yard, you can bet something unusual is present. Although Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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www.montgomeryparents.com

Baptist

What’s In Your Closet?

by Marla Cilley

Our journey through life starts with our first breath and it ends with our last one. Since our birth we have packed many bags for our trip. We are born naked, but then we have to put clothes on our bodies. These clothes tell our history...from the baby shoes we took our first steps in to the dress we wore to the prom, our wedding dress to the maternity clothes we wore when we gave birth. I’ll wager that your closet recounts many of the chapters of your life.

Our closets are filled to overflowing. Each time we open our closet door we have a conversation with those clothes. If the truth be known we actually wear only a few items in our closet. The rest are there to beat us up and pretend to rescue us. Our clothes have a way of making us feel bad.

Just think about your wedding dress that no longer fits your body. What are

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your first thoughts? How could I let this happen to me? I looked so good that day. Then I want you to think about how you starved yourself to death to fit into that dress in the first place.

Those nasty conversations go on each time you walk into your closet. If it isn’t about a wedding dress it is about another favorite outfit that you paid good money for that is now too tight. It is time for us to quiet these beratings and get on with our flight without feeling guilty.

There is an easy way to banish these voices from your head; get them out of your closet and only keep items of clothing that you absolutely adore and feel like a million bucks in when you wear them. Decluttering your closet is not going to kill you; in fact, it may just save your life.

It is time we packed for our journey. Our closets are no longer going to stand in our way of traveling light and enjoying our trip. Most of us only wear about 10% of the clothes we have stashed in there anyway. Let’s lighten our load and get rid of those nasty voices once and for all. Out of sight, out of mind! We can do this.

First we need to look at the clothes we truly love because we feel good in

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them. This goes for your shoes, too.

Pull those out of your closet one at a time and think about the words you hear in your head when you have them on. Now put them back in your closet and pull out something that does not give you the same feeling. If the item of clothing makes you feel bad, evokes feelings of guilt in you or you just don’t like it then put it in the “give away” box. If you have changed careers and no longer have to get dressed into suits then donate them so others can start their new jobs and look nice.

Let me warn you...going through your closet is difficult because of all the stories that your clothes dredge up.

This is why I only want you to spend 15 minutes at a time doing this. Do not spend hours; this will make you feel sick . Bless yourself by being kind to you. Bless others by donating those clothes that say ugly words when you enter your closet.

For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, check out her website at www.FlyLady.net or her book, Sink Reflections, published by Random House, and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2012 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.

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Double Up on Birthday Fun

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Pair Parties for More Thrills and Less Work

by Malia Jacobson

For a double-scoop of fun at your child’s next birthday, why not host a dual party? Combined parties for siblings, cousins, or friends with close birthdays are a growing trend, says Marnie Ann Pacino, author and illustrator of Cool Party, Mom! The Other Three Words Every Mother Loves to Hear. With kids’ parties becoming bigger, grander affairs, double parties let moms share the workload and the expense of birthday festivities.

Birthday parties are a much bigger deal than they used to be, says Pacino.

“Between decorations, invites, favors, acwww.montgomeryparents.com

tivities, and food, it can be exhausting and expensive. Who wouldn’t love some help running errands, cleaning up and footing the bill?”

And double parties don’t just benefit parents. For kids, a combined party often means a bigger party with more guests. “A potato sack race with 20 kids is bound to produce more giggles than the same race with ten kids!” notes Pacino.

Shared parties are also convenient for invitees’ parents. Kathleen Yarbro combined birthday parties for Lilly, 3, and Chloe, 1, into one celebration because the girls’ birthdays are 10 days apart—one 58

party was less hassle for everyone involved. “Most of the families we’d invite were the same for both girls,” she says.

“It made more sense to invite them all at once, instead of asking them to come over two weekends in a row.”

Think a double-decker party might work for your family? Here’s how to host a sweet soiree that your child (or children) will cherish for years.

Get Input

The first step to a successful double party: Ask the kids involved if it’s what they want (if kids are too young to ask, it’s Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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probably a safe bet that they don’t mind sharing the spotlight). Parents shouldn’t assume that all kids necessarily want a combined party. And some children with very different temperaments—one who’s high strung, and another who’s more retiring, for example—may not make compatible party-mates. If the guests of honor are on board, give both kids equal say in planning decisions.

Theme Scheme

If the birthday kids can’t agree on a theme, don’t choose—let each child pick a theme, and use both. When Christy Ramersrus hosted a double party for her two children, Joslyn, 7, chose a pony theme, while Carson, 4, picked Thomas The Tank Engine. Instead of deciding between the two themes, the family had separate decorations and a cake for each child in different rooms of the house. The theme combination was eclectic, Ramersrus admits, but the arrangement kept her kids happy and their guests entertained.

Gift Guidelines

Buying double the birthday gifts can cause sticker shock for some guests. To

ensure that people aren’t disinclined from attending because of the burden of purchasing two gifts, consider specifying simple gifts, or setting a no-gift policy. Book exchanges, where each guest brings a book to exchange in lieu of a gift, are a popular way to skirt the gift issue.

Solo Spotlight

Even at a combined party, kids should still feel special at their birthday shindig. Two birthday cakes are a must, as well as taking turns being first during games and activities. At the Yarbro party, each girl got their own rendition of the “Happy Birthday” song and sat in a seat of honor to open gifts.

Double parties can be a blast, but they’re not for everyone, Pacino notes.

Sibling rivalry can be intense during certain times in a child’s development—do parents want to put up with more sibling bickering during what’s supposed to be a fun event? Solo birthday parties also give kids in large families a rare chance to be the center of attention.

But for many kids, double parties mean double the fun. So set a budget, set

Double the fun with these joint party themes:

Thing 1 and Thing 2 Dora and Diego Noah’s Ark Princess and Knight Cowboy and Cowgirl Peter Pan and Tinkerbell Max and Ruby Humpty Dumpty and Little Miss Muffet Spiderman and Batman Sugar and Spice Source: Marnie Ann Pacino, author and illustrator of Cool Party, Mom! The Other Three Words Every Mother Loves to Hear.

realistic expectations, get both birthday kids involved in planning, and get ready for a double-dose of frosting-fueled birthday memories. mp Malia Jacobson is a freelance writer and mom of two.

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Birthday Party Planner CAKES/ FINGER FOOD • Bruster’s Ice Cream & Yogurt

272-7369, 6835 Vaughn Road and 239-7004, 9182 Boyd Copper Parkway. Select from 8” round cake or 9x12 cake Choose ice cream and one of the cake flavors. Pick a rich middle layer of fudge or caramel. All cakes are “iced” with fresh vanilla ice cream. For pies, choose from fresh ice cream over a thick, rich layer of fudge, caramel, marshmallow, or your favorite topping. All in your choice of Oreo or Graham Cracker Crust. We also have pies available.

• Cake Designs: 288-6900, 3651 Debby Dr. in LeCroy Village. Specialty cakes all with professional decorating. Specialize in children’s birthday parties. Closed on Sunday and Monday.

• Dairy Queen: 244-9490, 6120 Atlanta Hwy. Chocolate and vanilla ice cream, and chocolate crunch. 8” round $19.99, 10” round $21.99, sheet cakes $30.99. All can be personalized at no additional charge.

Local Resources to Meet All Your Needs

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• GiGi’s Cupcakes: 356-3737, 7918 Vaughn Road. Nothing makes a special day unforgettable like a custom cupcake creation from Gigi’s. Special selection offered every day of the week. You may order online at our website and pick up at the store or view our daily menu online. http://www.gigiscupcakesusa.com/ montgomeryalabama • Great American Cookie Co. at Eastchase: 356-8111, 7048 Eastchase Pkwy. Choose from 16” round for $26.99, and large Rectangular for $34.99.

• ICBY: 271-5944, 4339 Atlanta Hwy. Birthday Pies made of any flavor yogurt. You may choose from various decorations and designs. $12.95 for 8” pie • Liger’s Bakery: 288-6550, 3040 McGehee Rd. Open Monday - Friday, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. and Saturday, 6:30 a.m. - 4p.m. Any flavor birthday cake, round or sheet, decorated with flowers, fruit, etc. We also have cookies, cupcakes and sandwiches available. Cake prices start at $21.99 and up.

• Original Great American Cookie Co: 271-1900, Eastdale Mall. Up to 13 different varieties of cookies: 16” round $24.99, sheet cookie $33.99.

ENTERTAINMENT • Big Green Bus

The Big Green Bus brings the party to you! The Big Green Bus is a school bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility. Many elements of gymnastics are combined into one fun filled

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hour on board the Big Green Bus! Our party includes a zip-line, tumbling mats, monkey bar, rock wall, slides, tunnels, beam, bar, vault, rings, parachute games, and more! We will introduce your child to the wild and crazy world of gymnastics. We will bring an inflatable moon bounce at no extra charge. The birthday child will receive a Big Green Bus shirt! Goody bags are included in the prices. To schedule your party, please call Amber

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Holley at 334-324-4628, or visit our website at www. biggymbus.com.

• Dynamite Magic & Balloons

270-1234, Visit www.dynamitemagicandballoons.com.

Helium tank rentals (varying prices and sizes). Balloon decorations. Costumed characters available. Please visit our website to see the characters we have to offer.

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Characters do a 20 minute show with several songs and deliver balloons. Magic & clown Shows available.

also offer riding lessons! Lesson are now available for children 5 years old and above. Contact Frances Brown.

• Party Ponies by Renfroe & Daughters

• Fontaine Entertainment: 514-4457. Visit www. fontaineentertainment.com. “We are serious about your fun.” Offer DJ sound, light shows, karaoke, balloon decorations and theme decorations for birthday parties, corporate events, civic events, weddings, etc. Three hr. minimum.

Call Charles Renfroe at 280-3001. Invite Party Ponies to come to your home for very special birthday entertainment.

• Rolling Video Games of Alabama 334-272-0028 or 855-844-GAME. We bring the party to you! A climate controlled, customized, self powered, mobile video game theatre. Now offering pizza with 2 hours party game package. Please visit us at www. rollingvideogames.com.

• K & S DJ Services: 361-5161. WebSite: www.knsdjservice.com Email: dj4hire@kns-djservice.com. Over 20 years experience offering entertainment music, interactive games and party props for all ages. 2 disc jockeys for every party/ event. Call for more details.

• Taylor Made Gaming

• The Party Planner: 272-0351 or 202-0450, Cheryl Freeman. (See details under Party Planners)

334-538-4944. Where we bring the party to you. Mobile video gaming, Paintball and Laser tag. Please visit us at www.taylormadegaming.com.

• AAA Professional Sound & Video: 396-7746, More than 20 years experience. Largest DJ company in this area, offering a wide variety of sights and sounds. Mobile DJ systems, light shows, big screen videos and karaoke for parties, weddings, company events, reunions, etc.

Please call for rates.

• DJ at Large: 260-9732. Offers a variety of music plus karaoke and light shows for your child’s party. Video parties with 8 or 12 ft. screens and popular videos. Bubble parties offered as well. We can also provide the building for the party for an extra charge. Provides age appropriate music and will censor music to your discretion. Please call for pricing. “We put you first.” Email: DJ@AtLarge. com Website: www.DJatLarge.com.

• Dream Ponies: 334-328-2286, We make dreams come true. Not only are we fantastic for parties and events, we

• RockStar Parties and Events: Gina Brewer, 399-6962. DJ and Staged events. Stage and lights available. Available for any type of event. Visit us on facebook under RockStar Parties & Events • Trent McFarland ~ Cowboy: 558-3809. Professional rodeo cowboy with Old Yeller (famous dog) and Blue Rocket (gentle horse) offers guaranteed fun and entertainment for all ages with trick and fancy roping, whip-cracking bull whips, horse rides, and cowboy piñata. Available for birthday parties and all occasions. Ask about our special birthday party favors.

EQUIPMENT / GAME RENTALS • Space Walk of Montgomery

334-273-0204, What do you want to celebrate today? Set ups for Birthday Parties, Daycare Events, Community/

civic Events, School Carnivals and Sporting Events.

We offer inflatable Space Walks, Water Slides, Obstacle Courses, Combos, and much more.

• The Spacewalker, Allen Bowen

546-8116. We are a locally owned family business. New inflatable cinemas rental. We have a variety of moon walks, slides, games, slide combos, obstacle courses, giant water slides, inflatable tents and inflatable rock climbing wall. We also rent tables, tents, generators, chairs and concession machines. Costume characters are also available: Sponge Bob, Dora, Elmo and Spiderman.

We now offer balloons. We offer monthly specials. Please visit our website at www.thespacewalker.com . “You supply the people, we supply the fun.”

• Arrow Rents: 277-0463, 5600 Calmar Dr., Montgomery. Tents, tables, chairs, carnival equipment, fans, and bounce rides. All sorts of themed decor, balloons, helium tanks, and more. Provide great selection and even better prices. “Your one stop party shop.”

• Brendle Rentals: 279-7368, 485 N. East Blvd. Party supplies. Inflatable jumping units: (space walk). Whale obstacle course (50 ft. long inflatable course with slides).

Obstacle courses and other rides, carnival games, slide ,bungee run, tents and train. We setup at City parks and provide insurance. Website: www.brendlerentals.com.

• Moonwalk Montgomery: 277-2351. Moonwalks, Giant slides, Interactive inflatable, Obstacle Courses, Rides, Rock-Climbing wall, and much, much more. Rentals for special events. Please visit www.moonwalkofmontgomery.com.

• Playtime Rentals: 356-4888 or 285-5444. We have a huge selection of bounce houses, slides and jumpers for your party. Call for rates and dates. Please visit www. playtimeinc.org.

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LIMOUSINES • Touch of Class Limousine: 284-2673. Carry up to 14 passengers at a time. Can pick up kids and ride them around or take them for pizza, etc. and then back home.

These limos have all the extras for a fun time - red carpet, DVD for movies, a Birthday sign! Call for details.

PAPER GOODS/ DECORATIONS/ INVITATIONS • Arrow Rents: 277-0463, 5600 Calmar Dr., Montgomery. All sorts of theme decor, balloons, helium tanks, and more. We provide a better selection. “Your one stop party shop.”

• Brendle Rentals: 260-5568, 485 North Eastern Bypass, Montgomery’s Oldest Party Supply Store. Balloons, piñatas, party goods. Decorating themes available are fish, luau, western, fiestas, firemen, iridescent heart, gymnastics, ballerina, smiley face, train, patriotic, and sports.

Party favors and birthday bags now available.

• Capital City Copy Shop: 279-8820, 2701 Poplar St. Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pick up, delivery, fax services available.

• Jo’s Hallmark: 271-0539, 7842 Vaughn Rd. (on the corner of Vaughn and Taylor Rd) Paper/party goods, gifts, invitations, and an assortment of cards.

• Party City: 409-0901, 2095 Eastern Blvd. A one-stop party store that provides a wide selection of merchandise at everyday low prices. Discounts up to 50% off party ensembles.

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• Sunday Dinner: 272-7000, 5455 Atlanta Hwy. Plates, cups, chafing dishes, large quantity food items. Open Sunday thru Monday.

PARTY PLANNERS • Academy Events and Catering: 318-3047, 203 Orline St., Wetumpka. Our goal is to exceed our customers expectations. Our specialties are our cakes and floral. Let us cater your special events.

• The Party Planner: 202-0450, Cheryl Freeman.

“Specializing in making memories for your children.”

Have a character of your choice share their fairy tale come true through story and song. One hour of live entertainment. Character sings birthday wishes for the cake cutting and poses for individual photographs.

Provides an individualized party plan and memory gift for your birthday child. Additional services available such as personalized invitations and elaborate extras for that once-in-a-lifetime party. Choose from: various princesses, A Professor of Wizardry, Fashion model, Karate Kid, An adorable little fairy, Army man, Lescott the Pirate, and others. Join us for a “fairy”bration, a stroll down a yellow bricked road, an education in wizardry, and adventure in a wonderland, a sweet retreat in candyland, so Vomonos, Let’s Go! Additional areas of professional planning also include: the Fairy Tale Festival for the Younger at Heart, Elegant Tea parties, Just a “touch of class”, The BIG “who knows” Birthday Extravaganza, Anniversary Celebrations and Mystery Dinners for Adults. Call for rates and dates.

• Personal Touch Wedding and Catering: 279-6279, 9920 Wares Ferry Rd. Complete party planning. Call for more information.

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PRINTED INVITATIONS • Capital City Copy Shop: 279-8820, 2701 Poplar St. Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pickup, delivery and fax services available.

• Creative Printing: 281-1315, 3675 Debby Dr. (LeCroy Village) Everything is custom made for that extra special birthday.

• FedEx Office: 277-1477, 2240 East Blvd. in Promenade North. Full color banners and our custom design and print. Website: www.fedex.com.

• Kwik KopyShop: 244-0444, 4148 Carmichael Rd. Print custom invitations. Wide variety of designer invitations for theme parties such as pool, slumber, tea, zoo, carousel, western, bowling, skating, dancing, etc. 8 1/2 x 11 designed papers are available for you to do it yourself.

Fast turn around.

• The Paper Lady: Specializing in reasonably priced invitations, birth announcements, calling cards, thank you notes and more. Also an authorized Sweet Pea Designs dealer. To view the full selection of papers visit www. thepaperlady.net.

UNIQUE GIFTS FOR KIDS AND ADULTS • The Kazoo Toys

244-4199, 7850 Vaughn Rd., (down from Stein Mart) A full service toy store that offers a truly unique toyshopping experience. Complimentary gift -wrapping available. Please visit us on facebook.

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• Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Gift Shop

• Covent Garden Floral and Gifts: 277-4200, 7940 Vaughn Road. Gift basket and a large selection of unique gift items for that special one in your life. Pleases visit us at www.coventgardenflorals.com.

• My Kids Attic

• Embellish: 334-649-2022, 7056 Atlanta Hwy, Large selection of items to be monogrammed. Book bags, Scout bags, Brush Fire T-shirts, jewelry, tumblers and many, many more.

244-5763. Blount Cultural Park. You will find a wide assortment of unique gifts for that special someone.

270-1456, 401 Coliseum Blvd. Eastbrook Shopping Center. We offer something for the everything in your life. Specialty gifts, home décor, candles, jewelry, pewter, children’s couture, vinyl and monogrammed gifts. Please visit us on facebook at The Shoppes of My Kids Attic.

• The Montgomery Zoo Gift Shop

240-4900, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Off the Northern Blvd. Animal-related toys, shirts, masks, jewelry. Great gifts for the animal lover.

• Alabama Shakespeare Festival Gift Shop: 271-5358, Blount Cultural Park. Theatre-related gifts.

Open during performance hours, one hour prior to show and through intermission. Contact box office for show times. 271-5353 • Barb’s on Mulberry: 269-BARB (2272), 1923 Mulberry Street. Will personalize lots of gift items. Choose from a wide variety of unique and personalized gifts.

Closed on Mondays. We now do birthday parties. Call for more details or visit our website at www.barbsonmulberry.com.

• Jo’s Hallmark: 271-0539. 7842 Vaughn Rd (Shopping center on the corner of Vaughn and Taylor Rd). Large selection of Birthday cards, wrapping paper, frames, unique gifts, collectibles, and fine accessories.

• Old Alabama Town Gift Shop: 240-4500, 301 Columbus St. Regional and old-fashioned gift items.

• Periwinkles: 277-3570, 8189 Vaughn Road. Make your gift decisions from a large selection of popular items in our store.

• The Goat Hill Museum Store: 353-4969, located in Alabama’s State Capitol Building. Civil War, Civil Rights- Books, Local Artwork, Toys, Collectibles, Ornaments, Music, Videos, Cookbooks, Pottery, Souvenirs, and Unique Southern Gifts. Union Street Entrance. Open Mon.-Fri, 8:30 - 4:30 and Sat. from 9-4 (Sat. please enter through the Union St. entrance).

• Capitol City Comics: 215-3335, 7933 Vaughn Rd. (Festival Plaza). Large selection of comics, gaming cards, and statues. Military and college student discounts.

• The Turtle Shell: 358-0902, 160 W. Main St., Prattville.

Educational items including reading games, room decorations, math workbooks, gifts for birthdays, science kits, puzzles and music.

• Comics and Cards Trading Post: 272-1787, 7968Vaughn Rd. Located in the Sturbridge Plaza. Talk with Jim or Jason for your comics or sports trading cards needs.

• The Velvet Pumpkin: 273-9293, 8185 Vaughn Rd., Pepper Tree Annex. Beautiful selection of unique Clothing, Vera Bradley, frames and bath items.

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YARD SIGNS • A to Z Signs, Occasional Yard Signs: 354-5189. Displays for any occasion. Birthday, birth announcements, weddings. 6 ft. wooden signs and inflatable signs like a stork, heart, birthday cake, buzzard, and palm trees. And you can fill your yard with props such as cows, smiley faces, hearts, penguins, baby bottles, buzzard, flamingo and more. www.atozsigns.org.

• Flamingo-A-Friend: 279-3737. Choose from flamingos (assorted colors), smiley faces, cows & pigs, penguins, elephants, or footballs to fill your yard and surprise your birthday child when they awake. Also, a 4 ft. personalized sign with birthday message. Set up before 6:30 a.m. and clean up by 6 p.m. Please call for rates.

PLACES TO PARTY ARTISTIC • Paint and Clay

(334) 799-7762, Karen Kornosky. Girls Tea Party--Each child will paint two tea cups and saucers, one to keep and one for the birthday girl. The birthday girl paints the tea pot and has a set of cups to treasure made by her friends.

Other party themes available for boys and girls. Please visit us at our website: www.paintandclaystudio.com.

• Abrakadoodle: 265-5758. Creative art fun for your child for his or her birthday party. Visit the website for more information. www.abrakadoodle.com.

• Artistic Expressions: 365-8990, 2481 Pinnacle Way, Prattville. $65.00 party deposit get you party room, staff/staff members, personalized birthday

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plate for the party child. Day of party you only pay for what the children paint. . We now offer Parties to go and Home parties. Please call or visit our website for more details. Website: www. paintatartisticexpressions.com or visit us on facebook.

• Corks n Canvas: 277-1041, 8113 Vaughn Rd. Offering painting parties to children ages 8 and up. With the help of the instructor, each guest creates their own party favor (a painting) to take home at the end of the event.

Parties are approximately 2 hours in length, with a break to celebrate with a cake or cookie. Two packages are available. Check the packages and the painting options available on our website: www.corksandcanvas.net. Art parties for children younger than 8 are also available at our location through Abrakadoodle. For more information on parties for younger children, please contact Susan Parker at 265.5758.

• P’zazz Art Studio in Prattville: 354-1975, 162 West 3rd Street. Visit www.pzazzart.com for more info.

Hosts kids paint parties for just $150!

PLACES TO PARTY BOWLING • ACE Bowling Center

1661 Eastern Blvd., 334-819-7171. We offer 5 different birthday party packages. Starting from $109.99 on up to $189.99. Pkg A: $149.99, 10 children , 1.5 hours of bowling, bowling shoes for each player, 2 pizzas, 2 pitchers of drinks, Birthday decoration, Trained expert Party host. Additional children are $14.99 + tax. Package B: everything in Pkg. A plus One $3.00 game card per child or One 8 oz. frozen yogurt per child. Each Additional child $16.99 + tax each. Package C: everything in A plus

One $3.00 game card per child, one 8 oz. frozen yogurt per child. Each additional child is $18.99 + tax. We offer two Yoguberri packages for children ages 6 and under.

Please visit our website for more information. Reservations required, with a minimum $50 deposit to reserve a time slot. Cancellations are refundable only in the form of a $50 gift card. Please visit our website at www. acebowlingcenter.com • BAMA Lanes Inc: 272-5423, 3020 Atlanta Hwy. Two packages available: For Saturday and Sunday: Package A) $10.25 per child, 2 hour party, bowling pin with balloon bouquet, shoe rental, bumpers for children age 8 and younger, ice cream and soft drink. Package B) $11.25 per child. Includes package #1 plus hotdog and chips. For Monday through Friday packages cost $8.50 and $9.50 respectively and last 1 ½ hours.

• BAMA Lanes, Prattville: 358-8600, 1714 East Main St., Package A: $59.95 for one lane (six children per lane), 1 1/2 hour party. Shoe rental, bumpers for ages 8 and under, ice cream, drink and a balloon bouquet. Package B: $69.95 per lane (six children per lane). As above, plus hot dog with chips. Weekend parties: Party Package A: $69.95 per lane. 2 hrs., shoe rental, bumpers, ice cream, drink, balloon bouquet. Package B: $79.95 per lane. As above, plus hot dog and chips. Six child minimum and $25 deposit required.

• Brunswick Woodmere Lanes: 270-1101, 5665 Carmichael Rd. Birthday party package: Pkg A: $11.99 per child for 2 hrs bowling, shoes, one pizza per 5 children, 1 pitcher of soda per 5 children, balloon bouquet, hostess, invitations, cups, plates, napkins, table covers and utensils. Pkg B: $15.99 per child which includes everything in Pkg A plus a goodie bag for each child, $3.00 in games tokens for each child, a glow necklace for each child and a real signature bowling pin for all of the party guests to sign. $25 deposit required. Please call for more info.

PLACES TO PARTY GAMES

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• The Players Arcade: 272-1066. Eastdale Mall. $75 for 300 tokens. Party area for 1.5 hours. You bring food, drink, and table settings. $10 deposit. Private parties also available. Deposit required.

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PLACES TO PARTY GYMNASTICS / CHEER / DANCE • Big Green Bus

The Big Green Bus brings the party to you! The Big Green Bus is a school bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility. Many elements of gymnastics are combined into one fun filled hour on board the Big Green Bus! Our party includes a zip-line, tumbling mats, monkey bar, rock wall, slides, tunnels, beam, bar, vault, rings, parachute games, and more! We will introduce your child to the wild and crazy world of gymnastics. We will bring an inflatable moon bounce at no extra charge. The birthday child will receive a Big Green Bus shirt! Goodie bags are now offered. To schedule your party, please call Amber Holley at 334-324-4628, or visit www.biggymbus.com.

• Tonya Speed Dance: 277-1098, 3370 Har-

rison Road. We offer the best and most convenient venue for your child’s themed birthday party. We will help you customize the party and make it perfect and memorable.

Parties start at $175 and up with themed parties such as Pretty Princess, Tumbling Toddlers, Disco, Hip-Hop, Disneymania, “I’m Thirteen,” Mardi Gras, Hannah

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Montana, ‘Hoe Down, Throw Down” and more. We also have space for dances, proms and ballroom parties for all ages. www.tonyaspeedsdanceconnection.com

• United Gymstars

284-2244, 6100 Brewbaker Blvd., off Troy Hwy. Website: www.unitedgymstars.com. Gymnastics, trampoline, recreational activities, supervised games, and birthday party room. We provide the facility and activities; you provide the cake, decorations and food. Cost of $150 is for 15 guests and the birthday child. Summer Special price for the months of June and July ONLY is $125.00 (Add $5.00 for each additional child) Call for more information.

PLACES TO PARTY MARTIAL ARTS • Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center

220-5835, 3179 Taylor Rd. (Sturbridge Shopping Center), Docarmo’s Birthday Bash. For $10.00 per child you get: Use of Docarmo’s facilities which means you don’t have to worry about the mess! A taekwondo Intro class.

We send out the invitations for you. We provide a variety of FUN games for entertainment. You may bring in your own choice of food. Minimum of 10 children. Prices are based on 1.5 hour party on Saturday afternoons and all day Sunday. www.trytkdfree.com

• Family Karate Center

277-4911, 8159 Vaughn Rd., Pepper Tree Shopping Center. We now offer a Karate Kid Movie Birthday Party.

We offer fun wholesome birthday parties at our facility.

Included in our parties are 2 hours of jam-packed fun, including: each guest will receive a 1 month FREE pass to Stranger Danger, Free Stranger Danger Demonstration at every Birthday party. Ask Mom First, and the Bully Buster program. Birthday child and guests receive a FREE uniform. Kung Fu Panda Balance Beam, Fun and exciting coordination skills & drills, Board Breaking Contest, Samurai Frisbee, Ninja Ball Bounce, Power Ranger relays, SWAT (Student Winning Attitude Team) Team Exercises, STORM (Student Team of Role Models) Team Demonstration and Teen Team Demonstration Squad. Stranger Danger Child ID Packages provided so mom does not have to supply gift bags. Mother of Birthday child, Birthday child and guests receive gifts. Moms let Master Coker do all the work so moms can just show up and have fun. If Birthday child signs up for classes that day then the party is FREE. If any guest signs up for classes they get a free party. Parties for 2-4 year olds now offered. Unlimited guests.

• Fleming Martial Arts

4315 Atlanta Hwy., 277-5425. We have a 4,000 square foot facility for 1 ½ hours of fun. We provide the entertainment, tables and chairs and you provide the food, paper and utensils. Flat fee of $175. Call us to book your party. Please visit our website at www.flemingsmai.com.

• Tiger Rock Taekwondo Plus: 244-9139, 2750 Bell Rd. All parties are held on Saturday. Party includes martial arts class with games and entertainment. Then kids have their own section to eat and open gifts. We provide the cake and table settings. Parents supply food and decorations. Please call for more information and pricing. Tables and chairs provided. Deposit of half down.

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PLACES TO PARTY MISCELLANEOUS • Adventure Sports Aquatic Center 269-3483, 1546 East Ann Street. WebSite: www.adventuresports2.com. Indoor and outdoor pools, kiddie pool,

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grilling and picnic area. Price of $200 includes lifeguard for 20 children over 8 for two hours. You bring food and cake. Additional lifeguard it $25. Under age of 8 the limit is 16 per lifeguard. Call for details.

• Pump It Up!

277-5678, 1029 Lagoon Business Loop, off the Northern Blvd. Website: www.pumpitupparty.com. We are on the 10 Best Birthday Parties list from Parents Magazine Nationally. Only at “The Inflatable Party Zone” can you enjoy a private, indoor party with giant interactive inflatable play structures. A Pump It Up party is a fun and unforgettable event for ages 2 to adult! We offer four party packages. Surf our website for more information, or give us a call. Don’t forget to bring your socks!

• Smiles Galore

269-2895, 130 South Maryland Street, Montgomery.

We have been doing this for 13 years. Plans and hosts parties for children. Many themes to choose from. Dress up, crafts, canvas painting, slumber, pirates, banana split Sundaes, superhero party, cowboy party, Princess party, just to name a few. Also do Stuff-n-fluff, Stuff a purse, Noahsaurs and Fluff parties and Bella B Glamour workshop for girls. Set up and clean up is included. We do as much or as little as you like for us to do. All ages.

One call takes care of all your party needs. Baby shower facilities also available. We host personal and affordable parties with your child’s name on our marquee out front for everyone to see. Visit us on the web at www.smilesgaloreinc.com.

• Splattered Woods Paintball

334-300-2417, 2151 Cantelou Road, Montgomery, Al. Mobile paintball supply sales and service. We hose parties at your field or our location: Birthday Parties/ Team Building/Youth Groups. We can build custom games to fit your needs. Friendly Christian sales

and service. Please visit us at www.splatteredwoodspaintball.com for party packages available and more information.

• Antique Train Rides: Call toll free 1-800-943-4490, Located in Calera, 60 miles north of Montgomery. Party takes place in the restored Amtrak car. Includes a 45 minute train ride through the woods and by the interstate.

Parents can set up party in our restored Amtrak car. Kids can also look through the old railroad yard. Hostesses are available but parents supply food and supplies. Theme parties available (Thomas the Train…etc.) Please call for dates and party packages or visit us at www.hodrrm.org for birthday information.

• Bell Road YMCA: 271-4343, 2435 Bell Rd. Contact Susan Eggering for parties for members. Can rent pool, building or both. Goodtimes Waterpark: $350 for 2 hours which includes lifeguards. Bell Road Indoor Pool Complex: $250 for 2 hours includes lifeguards. Bell Road Outdoor Pool: $200 for 2 hours which includes lifeguards. Adventure Room: $100 for 2 hours during business hours (2:30-4:30 p.m.) on Saturday. Please call for more information and availability. Inflatables party room at Goodtimes with eating area. Sat. & Sundays only. Please call Goodtimes for more information about Inflatables party at 279-8878.

• Build a Bear Workshop: 1050 Eastdale Mall, 334-2796415. Our hours of operation are Monday- Saturday 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM, Sunday 1:00 PM - 6:00 PM. Our party planners can customize a party just for you! Hassle FREE! Have a party with no mess and no clean up.

Includes a party leader to keep your guests entertained.

You set the price! Starting at just $10 per guest. Every scheduled party includes photo to remember your party, party favor for all party guests, awesome gift for guests of honor, printable invitations and thank-you cards at www.buildabear.com. Plus, virtual party perks! All party

guests get to enjoy the fun of playing at home for FREE at www.buildabearville.com. Plus, get cool virtual stuff for their online character. Minimum of 6 guests for 1.5 hours. We are not licensed to serve food and beverages in our store. There is a list of mall food partners that may offer a discount to your group. Please visit www. buildabear.com for those listings.

• Carter Symone: 356-0754, 2856 Zelda Road in the Hillwood Festival. Website: www.cartersymone.com. Only at Carter Symone can you experience a premier private party! We create every girl’s fantasy birthday from ages 3 to 16. We offer your complete party for one great price!

Party choices include Princess, Bieber Fever, Spa, Fancy Nancy, and much more. The Premier Party Package includes costumes, accessories, runway/stage performance, music, and manicures for 1 ½ hours in our play area. Party also includes free invitations, paper products, pizza, fresh fruit, chips, juice, and goody bags for up to 10 children. The Royal Party Package is available Monday – Thursday before 1p.m. and includes everything in the Premier Package for up to 5 children for ½ the price!

Additional children may be added to any party package.

Add additional sparkle to her day with our party extras.

Extras include face paint, limo service, balloons, and/or our signature cake. Also join us every 1st Saturday for Tea Time from 11:30 to 1 p.m. Girls receive glitter face paint designs, hats, and other tea time accessories, than dine English Tea Style with parents and/or grandparents.

Check us out on the web for more information or give us a call today. Every girl is worth it!

• East Branch YMCA: 272-3390, 3407 Pelzer Ave. Parties for members. Indoor and outdoor pools. Outdoor pool includes slide and splash pool. YMCA provides lifeguards for party. Contact Teri Galloway.

• Eastdale Mall Island Carousel: 270-2736 (located outside of Belks). 4 Tables available for you to set up. If you

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come early you can hold them. We can not reserve the tables. Child and 9 friends ride one time for FREE. • McWane Center, Birmingham: They do it all - cake, punch, ice cream, paper products and, if you like, goodie bags. If you want a special science demonstration while you celebrate, they can also provide that.

Your group will party in one of the colorful party rooms, then take to the museum floor for a full day of hands-on science fun and discovery. Of course, you can also see a movie while there. For cost details and reservations, call (205) 714-8369 or visit our website: www.mcwane.org.

• Prattville East YMCA: 358-9622, 972 McQueen Smith Rd., Party room for members and non-members.

Pool rental for members. Party room has a $20 deposit and is $175.00 for non-members and $125 for members. This includes 1 ½ hours of entertainment, hostess, sheet cake, cups, plates, napkins, silverware for 15 children. Cost for each additional child is $2. Birthday child receives a free t-shirt. You provide ice, ice cream and drinks. Themed parties also available. Call for more details.

• Rave Motion Pictures: 7925 Vaughn Rd., 244-1300.

Celebrate your next party at Rave. Included in our special birthday package: admission price and reserved seating in the auditorium, a movie meal at the concession stand (including popcorn, drink and candy), a special party seating in the lobby. To ensure availability make reservations as soon as possible. For more information or to book a party contact a manager at RAVE MOTION PICTURES. • Southeast YMCA: 262-6411, 3455 Carter Hill Rd. Rent facilities for parties for preschool to age 14. Available for members and non-members. Call for rates and information.

• Wonder World Family Fun Center, 127 North Memorial Drive, Prattville, 365-6600. Rollerskating, Arcade, Laser Tag, Snack Bar, Inflatables, Birthday Parties.

Please call Debbie Brooks for details.

PLACES TO PARTY OUTDOORS • Montgomery Zoo

240-4900, 2301 Coliseum Parkway. Rent a shelter and host your own birthday party. Pay regular admission

for each child or qualify for a group discount with 20 or more children. Advanced reservations required.

• Shade Tree Riding Academy

290-3727 or 546-3964, 566 Thornfield Dr., Millbrook.

Gentle, experienced horses, easy trail and knowledgeable staff to assist beginners. Call today to reserve your party.

• Surfside Water Park: 1-334-821-7873, Off I-85 in Auburn. Water park including 2 speed slides, 4 body flumes, wave pool, lazy river, kiddie pool with play area, beach volleyball, concessions, picnic area, lighthouse over Lazy River for climbing or laying out, and a Jungle Jim tube slide that empties into the Lazy River. Please visit our website for admission prices. Group rates are available. You bring the cake, table settings.

• YMCA Camp Chandler: 567-4933,Wetumpka, on Lake Jordan 30 minutes from Montgomery. Great birthday idea for kids 5 to 15. Ten child minimum.

Year-round activities such as climbing tower, high ropes, archery, riflery, volley ball, floor hockey, canoeing, fishing, peddle boats, arts and crafts, basketball, carnival games, hayrides, game room, boat rides, and water balloon wars. Seasonal activities include swimming, water skiing, sailing, The Blob and horseback riding. $15 per child. Price includes everything from balloons to a cake for 3 hours. Call JoAnn Williams for private party info.

• Water World: Westgate Pkwy., Dothan, Ala. (334) 793-0368. We have a gigantic wavepool, a twisting triple flume slide, a heart pumping great white slide, and a kiddie area for little brother or sister. We also have an exciting video arcade packed with new games! You must have at least 8 guests coming to your party, and each person who comes into the park must pay the admission fee. A reservation and payment for at least 8 people must be received no later than one week prior to the party. Pkg A: Children $9.00, Adults $12, 2 tables reserved for your party.

A balloon for each guest. T-shirt for birthday child.

Visit from Aquaduck, the Water World mascot. Pkg B: Children $10, Adults $13, Includes all items in Package A, plus small fountain drink for each guest and push up ice-cream for each guest. Free tube rental for birthday child and a party favor for each guest. Pkg C: Children $14, Adults $17, Includes all items in packages A & B, plus a kid’s meal combo.

Please visit www.waterworlddothan.com for different party packages.

PLACES TO PARTY PARKS • Millbrook Memorial Center & Village Green Park: 285-6428, On Main Street and Grandview. Incredible wooden playground with castle, space shuttle, boat, etc. We have picnic tables and picnic shelter. First come first serve. Memorial Center rents for $200 for a one day rental. Handicap accessible facility. Call for more information.

• Montgomery City Parks: 241-2300, Speak with Ann Huebner to reserve picnic shelters all day for Lagoon Park, Buddy Watson Park, Ida Belle Young Park, Oak Park, Gateway and AUM Park. Large shelters are $50 for all day and $25 for 1/2 day. Small shelters are $40 for full day and $20 for half day. All parks are first come first serve and open to the public.

Make shelter reservations as early as possible. Pete Peterson Lodge in Lagoon Park is also available for rent and is air conditioned and heated. Price starts at $300 during week, and $400 on weekends for 4 hours. Gateway Lodge is $600 during the week and $800 on the weekend. Gateway has a caterer’s kitchen. This books fast so call early. Please visit www.montgomeryal.gov click on departments and then parks and recreations.

• Prattville Parks: 361-3640. City park shelters are $25 for 4 hrs. & $50 for 8 hrs. Cooter’s Pond pavilions rent for $35 or $75 depending on which pavilion. The Doster Community Center: auditorium $350 for 10 hours, dining hall $200 for 10 hours. The kitchen with either one of these rooms is an additional $75.00. Call Department of Leisure Services to reserve.

• Wetumpka Parks: 567-5147 for details on Gold Star Park (no rental fee if available), Jeanette Barrett Civic Room in Gold Star Park rents for individual $40, business $50 and church $25. Martin Luther King Recreation Center (both require a $300 cash deposit that is refundable) 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. for $115. Civic Center in Wetumpka, large room with kitchen, $500 refundable deposit, $125 cleaning fee and $1075 rental for 10a.m. until 12a.m. Call 567-3002 for details about Fort Toulouse/Jackson Park, off US 231, Wetumpka 165-acre park area includes nature trails, campgrounds, picnic pavilion, museum, boat launch, and fort. Would be a great place for either a Pocahontas Party or a Wild West Party.

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PLACES TO PARTY RESTAURANTS • Cheezie’s Pizza: 8125 Decker Lane, 244-9496 and 2762 Bell Rd., 356-5423. Large Cheese or Pepperoni Pizzas are $4.99 • Chick Fil A: 271-0104, 2682 Eastern Blvd and Eastchase Pkwy., Montgomery. Playground and reserved section. Kids meal and toy, ice cream and visit from Cow (mascot) on request. $6 per child. Every child gets a balloon.

• Chuck E. Cheese’s: 281-9290, 2940 E. South Blvd.

Reserve Birthday Parties online at www.chuckecheese.com. We offer several special party packages.

Please visit our website for pricing and available options.

• Cici’s Pizza: 386-3086, 981 Ann St. Cost by age,.

Ages 10 and under, $4.38 per person; adults $7.90 including your drink of choice + plus tax. You bring cake and Cici’s does the rest.

• Domino’s Pizza: All Locations, Offers discounted packages for at home parties. Call a location near you for current prices.

• Little Caesars: 288-1515, 3004 McGehee Rd. our new location at 5853 Atlanta Hwy, 277-4595, Montgomery. Order to pick up for parties or large gatherings. Large cheese or sausage or Large pepperonis for $5.00.

• McDonald’s: Call individual stores for cost and details. Most offer similar packages. Cost varies slightly. Includes a Ronald McDonald cake, hamburger kid’s meal, ice cream, hostess, and party favors are supplied. Access to PlayLand after the party.

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• Nancy’s Italian Ice: 356-1403, 7976 Vaughn Rd. (Sturbridge Shopping Center) Ice and cupcakes available for purchase.

• Papa John’s Pizza: Montgomery & Prattville. All locations offer discounts on pizzas on large orders.

Call for details.

• Pizza Hut: 265-6000. Offered at all Montgomery locations as well as Prattville, Wetumpka and Clanton.

Costs vary. Call for details.

• Stevi B’s Pizza: 279-3112. 5411 Atlanta Hwy. No deposit required. Please call ahead to reserve a room.

You bring the cake, table settings, decorations. Please call for pricing.

Other: Many local restaurants will treat the birthday person to a free dessert and possibly sing Happy Birthday. Call your favorite restaurant for details.

PLACES TO PARTY SKATING • Eastdale Mall Ice Palace: 277-2088. 10 or more people. Free birthday invitations and reserved table outside the rink. You bring cake and everything you need. Please call for pricing.

• Looney’s Skating Rink: 281-1032, 3541 McGehee Rd. Wide variety of party packages for all different

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ages. Please call for details and pricing. All parties require a non-refundable deposit at booking. You may bring cake, big cookie & ice cream only. Our friendly staff will setup, serve and cleanup your party. www.looneysskate.com • Wonder World Family Fun Center, 127 North Memorial Drive, Prattville, 365-6600. Rollerskating, Arcade, Laser Tag, Snack Bar, Inflatables, Birthday Parties. Please call Debbie Brooks for details.

PLACES TO PARTY TEA / DRESS-UP • Smiles Galore

269-2895, 130 South Maryland Street, Montgomery.

We have been doing this for 13 years. Plans and hosts parties for children. Many themes to choose from. Dress up, crafts, canvas painting, slumber, pirates, banana split Sundaes, superhero party, cowboy party, Princess party, just to name a few. Also do Stuff-n-fluff, Stuff a purse, Noahsaurs and Fluff parties and Bella B Glamour workshop for girls. Set up and clean up is included. We do as much or as little as you like for us to do. All ages. One call takes care of all your party needs. Baby shower facilities also available. We host personal and affordable parties with your child’s name on our marquee out front for everyone to see. Visit us on the web at www. smilesgaloreinc.com.

birthday from ages 3 to 16. We offer your complete party for one great price! Party choices include Princess, Bieber Fever, Spa, Fancy Nancy, and much more. The Premier Party Package includes costumes, accessories, runway/stage performance, music, and manicures for 1 ½ hours in our play area. Party also includes free invitations, paper products, pizza, fresh fruit, chips, juice, and goody bags for up to 10 children. The Royal Party Package is available Monday – Thursday before 1p.m. and includes everything in the Premier Package for up to 5 children for ½ the price!

Additional children may be added to any party package. Add additional sparkle to her day with our party extras. Extras include face paint, limo service, balloons, and/or our signature cake. Also join us every 1st Saturday for Tea Time from 11:30 to 1 p.m. Girls receive glitter face paint designs, hats, and other tea

time accessories, than dine English Tea Style with parents and/or grandparents. Check us out on the web for more information or give us a call today. Every girl is worth it!

If your business was not listed in this year’s Birthday Party Planner, please email editor@montgomeryparents.com with all the information and we’ll include you in our next Birthday Issue!

HAVE A HAPPY BIRTHDAY

PARTY!

• Carter Symone: 356-0754, 2856 Zelda Road in the Hillwood Festival. Website: www.cartersymone. com. Only at Carter Symone can you experience a premier private party! We create every girl’s fantasy

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Public Library Events MONTGOMERY CITY-COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

July 12 I love stories with happy endings!

Happy Pig Day A Ball for Daisy Craft: Pig masks

Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library (Main Branch) 245 High Street 240-4991

July 19 I love going places!

Silly Milly and the Mysterious Suitcase Time for Bed Craft: Sheep masks

Storytimes

Summer Reading Program Thursdays @ 10:30 a.m.

July 5 Dream Big with the Montgomery Zoo The Zoo will present Creatures of the Night, an exciting live presentation into the night life of the animal world.

July 12 Dream Big Read –Summer Reading Party July 19 PNC Bank will present Dream Big, Grow Up Great to help young children turn everyday experiences into math moments!

Teens’ Summer Reading Wednesdays @ 10 a.m.

Sign up to read ten (10) books or more to receive a reading award and your name will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize at the end of the summer program.

July 11 Ross Clayton Funeral Home with Mr. David Ross, III Have you ever wondered what a mortician does for a living?

July 18 Fashion Show sponsor by the Community Centers – Youth will display the latest fashions in clothing design.

July 25 Party Time!

Coliseum Branch 840 Coliseum Boulevard 271-7005 Preschool Storytimes Thursdays, 10 a.m.

July 5 No Story Time Today; Happy July 4th www.montgomeryparents.com

National Forests, talks about animals that come out at night.

July 17 Dream of Wild Things Where the Wild Things Are, read by special presenter Donna Pickens, curator for Montgomery Museum of Art. This will followed by a mask craft activity.

July 23 Awards Party. Program TBA

July 26 It’s fairy tale day!

I Know an Old Lady Who Swallowed a Fly, An old Hoosier folktale The Three Billy Goats Gruff Craft: Goat masks

Summer Reading Program, Grades K-5 on Mondays, 10 a.m.

July 2 What’s in the Night Sky? Special guest Ms. Trish Jester, Montgomery Planetarium, followed by a Word Search activity.

Summer Reading Program Fridays @ 10 a.m.

July 9 Creatures of the Night Ms. Dagmar Thurmond, Alabama National Forests, talks about animals that come out at night.

Elementary Program July 6 No Program Today- Happy 4th of July

July 16 Dream of Wild Things Where the Wild Things Are, read by special presenter Donna Pickens, curator for Montgomery Museum of Art. This will followed by a mask craft activity.

July 13 Dream Big with the Muppet movie The Muppets July 20 Dream Big with Creatures of the Night Learn about and see real creatures of the night from our Montgomery Zoo. Activity – Animal masks

July 23 Awards Day. Program TBA.

July 27 Program Finale Certificates will be awarded to all who turned in their Reading Logs

by July 20. High readers will be awarded. Refreshments for those who completed our program and received our certificates.

“Own the Night” Summer Matinees for Tweens and Teens Wednesday @ 10 a.m.

July 11 Megamind July 18 Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Teen Program July 10 @ 3 p.m.

Movie Day: Rise of the Planet of the Apes

Hampstead Branch Library 5251 Hampstead High St., Ste. 107 244-5770 Preschool Storytimes Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.

Children 3 and up

Governor’s Square Branch 2885-B E. South Blvd.

284-7929 Preschool Storytimes Tuesdays, 10 a.m.

July 3 It’s Time to Sleep, It’s Time to Dream My Name is Not Isabella Craft: Star mobile

July 3 Owl Parade Day Story and owl masks, followed by the Owl Parade around the library.

July 10 Can’t You Sleep, Little Bear?

Stars Craft: Night Sky

July 10 Ms. Dagmar Thurmond, Alabama 70

July 17 Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay Up Late Special video of Mr. Mo Willems sharing a story time favorite, Leonardo the Terrible Monster.

July 24 Rabbit’s Pajama Party Llama Llama Red Pajama Pajama Party day! Dress in your favorite PJs. Bring your favorite bedtime friend (or book) for our “Bedtime Show & Tell.”

Baby & Toddler Time Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.

An early learning program for children ages 6 months to 3 years

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July 4 Independence Day – Library CLOSED July 11 Nursery Rhymes: Pop Goes the Weasel; The Grand Old Duke of York Signing “water” July 18 Nursery Rhymes: Ladybird, Ladybird; Rock-A-Bye Baby Signing “cracker” July 25 Nursery Rhymes: Hey, Diddle, Diddle; Old Mother Hubbard Signing “help”

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Pre-K through 3rd Grade Thursdays @ 1:30 p.m.

July 5 Dream Big – Outer Space!

Saturn for My Birthday July 12 Dream Big- the World Around Us! Mrs. Jancaterino, a.k.a The Talking Tree from the Montgomery Clean City Commission, will share how the little things we do can make a BIG impact on the world we live in.

July 19 Dream Big – Music & Dance!

Jazzy Miz Mozetta Then we’ll do our own dancing – Zumba with certified Zumba instructor Stephanie Vance.

July 26 Dream Big – Book Show & Tell!

Bring your favorite book and share with us why you love it so much. We’ll follow up by making our own bookmarks.

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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Grades 4-6 Tuesdays @ 4 p.m.

Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.

PreK-5th Grade

July 10 Big Book Trailer (Part 1). Imagine your favorite book is about to be made into a movie. What would the music sound like? What images would you show? We’ll watch a few book trailers and brainstorm ideas for our own. (Permission slip required).

July 3 Show and Tell of Special Books

by Ms. Patricia Blair

July 17 Big Book Trailer (Part 2). This week we’ll begin piecing together our ideas from last week to create our very own book trailer. We’ll share our finished trailer on YouTube and Facebook. (Permission slip required).

July 17 T – Shirt Painting Show your creativity by painting a T–shirt that you bring

July 24 Murder Mystery party. Come ready to solve the mystery in the library! Pizza will be served.

Teens (Grades 7 and up) Wednesdays @ 4 p.m.

July 11 Own the Night: Book Trailers.

We’ll check out some book trailers and learn a few tips for creating our own. We’ll post your finished book trailers on YouTube. (Participants under 14 must have a signed permission slip to use computers).

July 25 Own the Night: Art Gallery Opening Featuring Book Art. We’ll take old books and turn them into works of art. Books are provided.

Rufus A. Lewis Branch 3095 Mobile Hwy. 240-4848 Wednesdays, 10 a.m.

PreK-5th Grade July 4 Fourth of July Holiday; All library locations will be closed July 11 Open Mike – Group Two Come and showcase your talent and win a prize July 18 T–Shirt Painting Show your creativity painting a T–shirt that you bring

Children’s Summer Reading @ Rosa Parks Branch Library July 4 The Library will be CLOSED. July 6 @ 2 p.m.

Learn why bullying is never okay, with our friend Japonica Charles!

July 2 The Food We Eat featuring Sue Pitchford

July 11 @ 10 a.m.

Deputy Dave will be here! Come learn about city safety!

July 9 Teen Dance Contest (Join Today!)

July 13 @ 2 p.m.

Come and find out what ROTC stands for with Taisha Foy!

July 16 “How I Made it This Far: Words of Encouragement” with author Katrina Roper Smith

July 18 @ 2 p.m.

Our friend Kitty is coming! You won’t want to miss her!

July 23 End of Summer Party Mr. “Big”

July 20 @ 2 p.m.

Come and tell us all about your summer vacation!

E.L. Lowder Branch 2590 Bell Road 244-5717 Preschool Storytimes Fridays, 10:15 a.m.

July 25 @ 2 p.m.

It’s a slumber party! Come dressed in your pajamas and enjoy the party!

July 6 ********No Storytime******* Happy 4th of July and be safe!

Pike Road Branch 9585 Pike Rd. / 244-8679 NOTE: New day, same time!

Story Time for ages 3 through 7 Tuesdays at 4:15 p.m.

July 13 Don’t Spill the Beans!

Craft/Coloring Activities

July 3 Bear’s Loose Tooth

July 20 Up and Down Craft/Coloring Activities

July 10 Children Make Terrible Pets

July 27 Henry in Love Craft/Coloring Activities

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Rufus A. Lewis Summer Reading Program

July 3 America is amazing! Come find

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Family Movie Time Thursday, July 19, at 3:30 p.m.

Hey, kids and grown-ups, come on over to enjoy a movie and some popcorn for FREE!

July 31 Do you have a bedtime routine?

Froggy Goes to Bed

Teen Summer Reading Program Mondays @ 2 p.m.

ll!

July 10 Let’s gaze at the stars in Fancy Nancy Stellar Stargazer!

July 24 Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site

July 24 Tell–a–Story Day Various groups will be asked to choose at least one of their children to tell a story to the entire audience.

Rosa L. Parks Branch 1276 Rosa L. Parks Ave./240-4979 Storytimes Tuesdays, 10 a.m.

And, yes, we will eat some cake.

July 17 Whoo Goes There? Finding out will be a hoot!

July 10 Open Mike – Group One Come and showcase your talent and win a prize

July 25 End of Summer Library Program(SLP) Party – Expect a Surprise Performer and other activities

out why in America! Wow!

July 17 You Will Be My Friend July 24 Stuck July 31 Today is our final storytime until September so we’re going to have our cake and eat it, too, when we read Betty Bunny Loves Chocolate Cake.

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Pike Road Children’s Summer Reading Events Mondays at 3:30 p.m. for ages 5 and up, but all are welcome July 2 “The American Dream”: We’ll read a story about our founding fathers in honor of Independence Day. Plus, we’ll make an Independence Day themed craft that kids can take to Pike Road’s parade on Wednesday, July 4.

July 9 “Dream Big - Write”: Author B. Coyne will read from her book Treading Water on Ripple Creek Farm: Lily and tell us why and how she wrote her book.

July 16 “Dreaming of the Big Screen”: Actor Grayson Russell, who plays Fregley in the Diary of a Wimpy Kid movies, will entertain us and tell us how he became an actor.

July 23 “Dream Big Under the Stars”: Cowboy Bruce and Verne bring their Wild West Show back to the library for our final event of the summer.

Pine Level Branch 20 Kohn Dr., Pine Level 584-7144 Pine Level Storytime group has combined with Pike Road.

Pintlala Branch 255 Federal Rd., Hope Hull 281-8069 Summer Reading Program 10 a.m.-noon each day July 10 There’s a Nightmare In my Closet Help put together a collage of Montgomery Snack July 11 Dad, Are You The Tooth Fairy?

Craft: Make Tooth Pillows Snack July 12 The Napping House Cut outs to go along with the story Craft: Handprint Quilt www.montgomeryparents.com

July 17 Brenda Henson, 4-H Agent, Ala. Cooperative Extension System Craft: Dream Catchers Snack July 18 Where the Wild Things Are Craft: Make Monster Heads July 19 Brenda Henson, 4-H Agent, Ala. Cooperative Extension System Nutrition: “My Plate” A Craft Snack July 24 Pajama Party Alice in Wonderland Watch the Disney Movie “Alice in Wonderland” **Wear pajamas and bring your blankets** Snack July 25 Jessica Hines from Pintlala “Clouds” Craft: Cloud Stamping Snack July 26 SRP PARTY—games, fun, crafts, and food!! Our end party is a cos-

tume party. Come dressed as your dream character

Millbrook

3650 Grandview Road Call 285-6688 or visit http://library.cityofmillbrook.org/ Pre-school Storyhour Thursdays at 10 a.m.

Summer Reading Program for all kids between the ages of 4 to 12.

Ramer Branch Library 5444 State Highway 94 (334) 562-3364 Summer Reading Programs 10 a.m. unless stated otherwise July 10 “Summer Fun” by Ms. Kalia Brooks, teacher at E.D. Nixon.

AutaugaPrattville Library

July 11 Welcome to Paradise - a movie about a town coming together!

254 Doster Street, Prattville Call 365-3396 or visit http://www.appl.info Preschool Storytime & Summer Reading Program Tuesdays at 10 a.m.

July 17 “Reading Fun” with Ms. Barbara Strickland, former MCCPL librarian.

July 18 @ 2 p.m.

“Using the Library.” Branch Head James Greer shows how to best use the library resources for research.

Summer Reading Program Tuesdays, 2 p.m. at the Wetumpka Civic Center for rising 1st-6th grades, “Dream Big: READ!” July 3: Dreams---Stories & Craft July 10: Marvel Comics with Gregg Hurwitz July 17: Campfire/Awards

July 10: Stuffed Animal Sleepover!

Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. at the Jeanette Barrett Civic Room for rising 7th12th grades, “Own the Night.”

July 24 & 31: Storytime P.A.W.S. dogs Wednesdays from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Also...FOUR different summer book clubs to choose from Tuesdays-Fridays

July 26 @ 2 p.m.

Small Miracles- a movie about believing!!

212 S. Main St. (next to Wetumpka Depot) Call 567-1308 or visit wetumpkalibrary.com Preschool storytimes Tuesdays & Fridays at 10 a.m.

July 3: Storytime

July 17: Champ, Journey & Bella

July 25 Summer Reading Program Graduation

Wetumpka Library

July 5: Things that Go Bump in the Night (in the library) July 12: Art with Carol Barksdale July 19: Minute Mysteries & Treats

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Girl Scouts Centennial Exhibit Opens at Old Alabama Town

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Prattville Girl Named Pageant Runner-Up

Laura Grace Henry, a nine-yearold from Prattville, was named overall first runner-up in the Jr. Pre-Teen Miss age category and won several more distinguished awards during the National American Miss Alabama Pageant which was held recently in Montgomery. Eighty-five young ladies from across the state competed in her age category. Henry also won trophies and cash prizes for the Most Photogenic Award, the Portfolio Award, the Spirit of America Award, and was named First Runner-Up in the “Best Actress” category and First Runner-Up in the Talent competition, where she played the piano.

Because of her placement in the state pageant, Henry will advance to the national pageant in Anaheim, California, to represent Alabama at the National All-American Miss Pageant in November. During competition week, she will also enjoy a contestants’ day at Disneyland and a tour of Hollywood.

Henry will be in fourth grade this fall and is an “A” Honor Roll student at Prattville Christian Academy. She is the daughter of DiDi and Bryan Henry of Prattville, and the granddaughter of Jeanne Jones also of Prattville and Margaret Henry of Columbus, Mississippi.

The National American Miss pageants are dedicated to celebrating America’s greatness and encouraging its future leaders. Contestants are judged 30% on their poise, 30% on their personal interview, 30% on their onstage introduction and 10% for community service. Each year, the pageant awards one million dollars in cash, scholarships and prizes to recognize and assist the development of young women nationwide.

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Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama’s exhibition, “A Centennial Legacy,” is now open at Old Alabama Town of Montgomery. On display until mid-July, the exhibit features a journey through time with restored Girl Scout photos, vintage sashes, patches and newspaper clippings, as well as mannequins dressed in traditional Girl Scout uniforms. The exhibit is open Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

March 12, 2012, marked the 100th anniversary of the first Girl Scout Troop meeting.

The inaugural meeting consisted of 18 girls led by Girl Scouts founder Juliette “Daisy” Gordon Low in her hometown of Savannah, Georgia. Since that time, Girls Scouts has grown to 3.7 million members and is the largest educational organization for girls in the world.

Girls Scouts initially came to the Montgomery area in February of 1921. The first troop was formed at Trinity Presbyterian Church and consisted of 13 girls. The first national charter emerged in Montgomery under the name of Girl Scout Council of Montgomery. Over time, the local organization expanded and merged with other councils realigning in 2007 to become Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama. Currently, GSSA serves 30 counties in Southern Alabama and has more than 9,000 registered Girl Scouts with an additional 3,000 volunteers. “A Centennial Legacy” will feature large format photographs from the early years of the organization in this area, a handmade lashed table, and shadowbox displays of badges, pins and newspaper clippings showing the growth of Scouting throughout the decades.

Other featured items include archival photos of former Girl Scouts at historic landmarks, including early photographs of Maxwell Field. The exhibit will be moving and featured at other locations throughout the council, including east Alabama, west Alabama and the Wiregrass areas. The exhibition “A Centennial Legacy” is made possible in part by GSSA staff, Carole King and the Old Alabama Town staff.

Prattville Junior High Cheerleaders Host Cheer Camp July 28

The 2012-2013 Prattville Junior High School cheerleaders recently returned from a Universal Cheerleaders Association Summer Camp in Gulf Shores. The team received First Place for their Home Pom routine and Second Place for their Extreme routine. Five of the girls were selected as UCA All Americans and one individual won the “Jump Off.” The team consists of Makayla Logan, Brooklyn Hollon, Katlyn Dean, Macey Thigpen, Gabby Johnson, Micah Smith, Madison Redd, Hynethis Todd, Natalie Wetzel, Brynleigh Davis, Brianna Lightsey, Mackenzie Brown, Zahkira Bates, Kaitlin Lemaster,Olivia Stewart,Reagan Boyer,Mykenzie Davey, Baylee Sherman, Kristen Pierce, Carmella Clark, Mary Helen Whitehead, Tori Moore, Marissa Foshee, Sarah Hall and mascot Colby Thornton.

These outstanding young cheerleaders, under the direction of Coaches Katie Gazell, Lashonda Houser and Susan Wilson, will host a one-day youth cheer camp at Prattville Jr. High on Saturday, July 28, from 9 a.m. until 12:30 p.m. for kindergartners through eighth-graders to learn more about cheerleading. There is a $30 fee, which includes lunch and a souvenir camp T-shirt. There will be classes on jumps, cheers, chants and dance.

Applications are available online at pjhscats.com and only the first 100 applicants will be accepted.

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Summer Safety Slip-ups And How to PLAY IT SAFE

by Sandra Gordon

No big deal, you think—so what if my child doesn’t want to wear his helmet. He can go for a bike ride without it just this once. Or you get caught up in conversation at a pool party instead of keeping an eye on your toddler.

It’s no surprise that accidents happen, even when we’re trying to be careful. But because we’re outside more and the days are longer, summer can be an especially dangerous time. According to SafeKids Worldwide, there’s an 89 percent increase in children drowning in the summer months and a 45 percent surge in bike-riding deaths.

Fortunately, turning your child’s summer into a safety zone is a matter of making a few precautionary tweaks.

Here are some small risks you might be taking that can lead to big problems, and our top tips for avoiding them.

Safety slip-up: Tossing charcoal

after a BBQ. Cleaning out the grill and disposing of coals in a remote section of www.montgomeryparents.com

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your yard or campground or at the beach may seem like a good idea because it’s far away from everyone. Trouble is, kids run all over the place in the summer and they’re often barefoot. “Charcoal can get up to 1,000 degrees F,” says John Drengenberg, the consumer safety director at Underwriters Laboratories, in Northbrook, Illinois. Even if the coals don’t look hot, they can retain their heat for hours. And it only takes a moment’s contact with a scorching coal to seriously burn a child’s delicate foot.

in different colors, such as purple, blue and red, and can easily be upturned and ingested. Another common mistake parents of young children make: “They’ll pour gasoline for the lawn mower into a smaller container, like a measuring cup, and leave that sitting around,” says Rose Ann Soloway, R.N., a clinical toxicologist at the National Capital Poison Center in Washington, D.C. In addition to being poisonous, “Kids can swallow it or breathe it into their lungs, causing aspiration pneumonitis, which can be fatal,” Soloway says.

Play it safe: Whether you’re at home,

Play it safe: Store tiki oil in its origi-

at the beach or camping, cool down hot coals before disposing of them. Douse them with a garden hose or a bucket of water after cleaning out the grill.

Safety slip-up: Keeping tiki oil with-

in your child’s reach. Toddlers and older kids are drawn to anything that looks like juice. Tiki oil, which is used more in the summer, to light tiki torches, comes 74

nal container out of your child’s sight and reach, in a locked cabinet just like you do medicine and vitamins. The same goes for gas, charcoal lighter fluid, antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid.

These containers don’t have child-resistant caps, which a determined toddler may be able to override anyway. If you believe your child has something potentially poisonous, call the Poison Control Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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Center at 1-800-222-1222. You’ll be connected with a nurse, physician or pharmacist at a local center who is specially trained in recognizing and treating poisoning. Do this instead of heading directly to a hospital emergency room or call 911—you’ll get the fastest advice on how to handle the situation.

Safety slip-up: Assuming someone

else is watching the kids. “At pool parties, many parents assume somebody else is watching. Mom assumes Dad’s watching. Dad assumes Mom’s watching and it’s easy to get distracted,” says Phyllis F. Agran, M.D., M.P.H., professor emeritus of pediatrics at the UCI School of Medicine, in Irvine, California. Even a few unsupervised minutes in the water can be deadly for a young child.

Play it safe: Assign a supervisor. One

of you needs to be officially on duty and concentrating on your child. At pool parties with children present, designate a supervisor and make it clear by saying to your spouse, for example, “Okay, you’re on duty while I’m chatting with our

friends.” But don’t think it’s enough to make your older kids, who are having fun too, keep an eye on your younger ones. Make that supervisor your spouse or another adult.

Safety slip-up: Letting your older child ride his bike without a helmet.

Studies show that kids ages 11 to 15 tend to wear helmets less often than younger ones.

Play it safe: Be on helmet patrol. A

bike helmet can reduce the risk of bicycle-related traumatic brain injury by up to 88 percent. So, of course, you’ll want to make sure everyone—you included— is protected with a properly fitted helmet whenever you ride. Keep on your older child to always wear one.

Safety slip-up: Keeping the wading

pool filled. “Young kids can drown in an inch of water or less,” says Drengenberg, so don’t think the water in your child’s baby pool is harmless.

Play it safe: “Dump the wading pool

when you’re done with it,” Drengenberg

says. “And turn it upside down so it doesn’t catch rain water.” In fact, empty all outdoor containers of water after use, including five-gallon buckets and insulated coolers; they’re a formidable drowning hazard.

Safety slip-up: Leaving your

medication on the hotel night stand.

“When we’re traveling, it’s often much easier for youngsters to get into things that might be safely stored at home,” says Soloway. We stow medication and vitamins in suitcases, on night stands-places that are accessible to children, she says.

Play it safe: If you don’t have access

to a locked cabinet, store your medication and vitamins out of your child’s reach just like you would at home. Do the same at Grandpa and Grandma’s house, too, and do a safety check. Make sure any medication or vitamins they take aren’t accessible to your child. mp

Sandra Gordon is a journalist specializing in health and nutrition. She’s the author of Consumer Reports Best Baby Products.

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Last Chance for EastChase Summer Fashion Camps!

The Shoppes at EastChase will host the last phase of Fashion Camps for ages 6-12 in July. The one-day camps will be separated into two age groups: ages 6-8 and ages 9-12. The sessions will take place two weeks in July, and each fashion camp will run from 9 a.m.-1 p.m. with the cost of $65 per child. The dates for July include July 16, 17, 23 and 24 for ages 6-8 and July 18, 19, 25 and 26 for ages 9-12.

Little fashionistas will learn about subjects such as Style 101, accessorizing, makeup, decorating and entertaining with breakout sessions hosted by Williams-Sonoma, Claire’s, Earth Fare Organic Grocer, GAP, Anthony Vince Nail Spa, The Studio at EastChase and Dillards. The day also includes lunch, a $25 gift card to The Shoppes at EastChase, a special gift and an official graduation certificate.

Space is limited. To register, visit www.theshoppesateastchase. com to register online, call the main office at 279-6046 or stop

by Guest Services located next to Ware Jewelers.

Shown, girls ages 6-8 participating in Fashion Camp stopped at Dillard’s to learn how to have fabulous style.

Host Families Needed for International Students

Make an American dream come true – host an international exchange student! Aspect Foundation, a non-profit educational exchange organization, is currently seeking host families for international high school exchange students from more than 30 different countries who want to attend a River Region high school for the upcoming school year. For more information about becoming a host family, call Lynda Coats at 354-8869 or Aspect Foundation’s National Office at 1-800-US YOUTH, or visit www.aspectfoundation.org.

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Tonya Speed Campers Enjoy Full Busy Week

Dance camp fun! Campers at Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection dressed up for a talent show recently. Other activities included various dance styles, arts and crafts with Barb on Mulberry, water play, manicures, modeling, manners and much more! The next camp is July 9-13.

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

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Group Classes • Private Lessons • Skate Sales www.montgomeryparents.com

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ADT Presents ‘Stars on the Riverfront’

The Alabama Dance Theatre opens its 26th Season with two free performances of “Stars on the Riverfront.”

Bring the entire family and a picnic and join the Alabama Dance Theatre as the sun sets at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. These eclectic performances are the culmination of ADT’s two-week Summer Dance Seminar and will be held Sunday, August 5, and Monday, August 6, at 7:30 p.m. at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. Gates open at 6 p.m. on August 5 and 6 for picnicking. Chick-Fil-A will be on site Monday only.

Guest teachers for the two-week seminar which will be held July 24-August 5 will include former soloist with American Ballet Theatre, Shawn Black, and former artistic director of Gwinett Ballet Theatre, Lisa Sheppard Robson. The performances will feature 2nd Act Giselle staged by Shawn Black as well as contemporary works

by Resident Choreographers Sara Sanford and Janie Alford. Alford’s work will be accompanied by live music from the “Hotheads,” an Alabama-based string band that plays “old-time music.” Professional guest artists from around the southeast will collaborate and perform with the ADT dancers. The performances will also feature the up and coming talent of the company in “Etudes” under the direction of Artistic Director Kitty Seale. This is an audience favorite as young and talented dancers exhibit their expert training.

Call 241-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre. com for more information on the performances or to register for the two-week seminar.

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Prattville ‘Broadway’ Camp A Success

Talented local young artists proudly performed and displayed their artwork in a free performance at the Martin Theatre Complex (downtown Prattville).

The week at Prattville Performing and Visual Arts Camp culminated with an “On Broadway” theme including excerpt musical theatre presentations from “Mary Poppins,” “Grease” and “Oklahoma “choreographed by C.J. Martin. The children’s art pastels, taxi cabs and jukebox exhibits were created at Pizzaz Art Studio and enjoyed by all. The next “On Broadway” camp will be July 16-20 with a free performance on Friday, July 20, at 12:15 p.m. For more information, call Kasey Hope at 354-1975 or C.J.Martin at 467-8603.

Pearl Girls Learn About Stranger Danger

The Pink and Pearls for Girls Inc. visited the Family Karate Center recently, where Master Carole Smith talked to the girls about what to do if a stranger approaches them. Parents also learned different techniques of how to help their children protect themselves from strangers. If you would like to join Pink and Peals for Girls Inc., please contact Grace Smith at 561-5091.

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Family Spiritual News Frazer Presents Go Fish in Concert

Woodland United Methodist Sponsors Back to School Blast

Dove-award winning Christian Children’s music performers Go Fish will be in concert at Frazer’s Wesley Hall on Saturday, August 11, at 4 p.m. The group strives to create music with solid scriptural content to help kids learn the Bible and have fun doing it. Parents may find themselves tapping their feet and singing along too, though, since the Go Fish mission statement is “to make great music for kids that won’t drive parents bonkers”!

Go Fish created the Bible curriculum that will be used in this year’s Frazer Vacation Bible School July 9-13, so many Frazer children will already be familiar with their music and videos.

Tickets are available for $10 plus handling fees at iTickets.com or in the Frazer Bookstore ($12 at the door). Children two and under are free. Call 272-8622 or e-mail butch@frazerumc.org for more info.

Saturday, July 28, from 8-11 a.m.

Woodland UMC, 4428 Wallahatchie Road, Pike Road (intersection of Vaughn & Wallahatchie Roads) For all children ages K5-12th grades. Free school supplies (including bookbags to first 600 children, pencils, paper and other supplies); health screenings (blood pressure, diabetes, vision, hearing, & dental screens); fun & giveaways (such as free school shoes in limited sizes/amounts-first come, first served); games & prizes; snacks; free haircuts & much, much more... Everything is FREE!!!

Call the church office at 272-7230.

Science Camp at GracePointe CDC

July 16-20 Learn about science while having fun with cooking, art experiments and more. Ages 4-7. $100 per child includes supply fee. The church is located at 1565 Ray Thorington Rd. in Montgomery. Call 220-7481 or 294-1164 or e-mail ktniel@gmail.com to register.

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Miss Bright Star Pageant Winners Announced

The Miss Bright Star of America pageant has named RaeAna Thomas its new Queen. Thomas is a resident of Gunter AFB who has a goal of becoming a teacher. Along with Thomas, her Sister Queens were Braylee-Joi Thomas, Abrashia Williams and Rasheda Means.

This year’s pageant took place to a packed house that included several contestants running for the title.

The ladies were all interviewed by a panel of six judges, after which the audience was introduced to each contestant.

Aside from crowning Miss Bright Star of America, Mistress of Ceremonies Gennice Burch announced new Ambassador Queens Ilan Victoria, Danielle Pettyway, Lillie Johnson and Rasheda Means for 2012. Departing Queen was Myracle Toney.

Shown are Ilan Victoria, RaeAna Thomas, Braylee-Joi Thomas, Abrashia William, Rasheda Means, Myracle Toney, Danielle Pettway and Lillie Johnson.

For more information on Miss Bright Star of America’s upcoming workshop taking place on September 3, visit www. missbsa.com or call 221-8779.

Dance Generation Seniors Perform Final Dance

Seniors from Dance Generation of Montgomery danced their last performance on May 12th at the Davis Theatre. Amanda Carter, Shelley Petrey, Allie Little, Mary Ashley Allen, Sommer Branning, Becky Allbritton, Kelli Hudson and Chance Williams each performed a special solo and received a trophy and flowers. Dance Generation celebrated its “75th Anniversary” this year. Visit them at www.dancegenerationstudio.com.

To share news about your group’s special events, e-mail editor@montgomeryparents.com.

Alabama Kidney Foundation Hosts Annual Walk-a-Thon August 18

The Alabama Kidney Foundation hosts its annual “Make a Difference…One Step at a Time” Walk-a-Thon on Saturday, August 18, at Baptist Health’s DeBoer Building, in Montgomery.

The Alabama Kidney Foundation (AKF) is Alabama’s only state-based organization dedicated to serving kidney patients.

The Foundation’s programs, which are provided free to Alabama’s kidney patients in need, provide tangible solutions to real and, oftentimes, crucial needs. One of the ways AKF is able to provide these services is through the money raised from their annual Walk-a-Thons. The Alabama Kidney Foundation serves kidney patients by providing financial assistance, education and support services. The Foundation promotes public education to prevent kidney disease and raise organ donation awareness.

This family-friendly event offers something for everyone: food, fun and fabulous prizes! If you are interested in leading a team at this year’s Walk-a-Thon and helping thousands of Alabamians suffering from kidney disease, please contact Amy at (334) 241-0003 or amy@alkidney.org to register a team today.

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Family Calendar Ongoing

Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. Hands-On Gallery includes Granny’s Attic where you can try on clothes, uniforms, shoes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Discovery Boxes are filled with all kinds of Alabama history. Numerous handouts, videos on Selma to Montgomery March, Helen Keller, Mardi Gras and more. Photographs of Helen Keller on display. The Archives museum galleries are FREE to the public. Hours are Mon.-Sat., 8:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. Please note: The Research Room is only open the 2nd Saturday of each month. 624 Washington Ave., Montgomery. Call 242-4435 or visit www. archives.alabama.gov.

Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each Club is $20 a month.

Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel.

First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092.

Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information.

Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333.

“Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333.

Bama Brushstrokes Art Club Meets 9 a.m., 2nd Saturdays of each month, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery.

Club members include beginners, intermediate and advanced skill levels. Activities include seminars with well-known artists. Classes are taught by our members or guest artists. We share our talents with our community in various programs, such as the Memory Box Project for hospice patients through sponsorship by the Society of Decorative Painters.

Our chapter creates finished paint projects and murals for various hospitals, libraries, and community-based organizations. For more info, contact Diana French, president, at garnet2@bellsouth.net.

The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and

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services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 3241406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com.

The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa A private, non-profit, community-based organization located at 2213 University Blvd. in downtown Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed most holidays. Special programs are held for preschoolers weekly. Admission is $5 per person, with no charge for museum members or children under the age of 1 year. Special discounts are available to schools. For info, call (205) 3494235 or visit www.chomonline.org.

Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286.

Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday.

Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse. org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities, auditions, and the Playhouse School!

Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry.

First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the war and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from FebruaryMay 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www. firstwhitehouse.org.

Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features.

Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org).

W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. and Sun. Admission $3.50/person, children under 5 free, seniors $2.50/person. Mon-Thurs. at 3 p.m.; Sun. at 2 p.m.

1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 241-4799.

Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a family-friendly space filled with interactive and

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educational hands-on exhibits for children age eight and under. Imagine It! also offers birthday parties, memberships and field trip tours. Museum hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $11 plus tax for adults and children ages 2 and above. Imagine It! is located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive.

Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more info, visit www.imagineit-cma.org or call (404) 659KIDS [5437].

Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history.

Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free.

Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m.

-noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org.

Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum.

Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500.

Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. -3 p.m.

Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10 Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Enjoy the outdoors together, while experiencing a variety of attractions, entertainment and recreation.

Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads and enjoy live entertainment, skilled craft demonstrations, shopping, dining and more. Additional attractions include: the 4-D Theater, The Great Barn, Paddlewheel Riverboat, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, Pedal Boats, Mini-Golf, New Camp Highland Outpost and Treehouse Challenge, Discovering Stone Mountain Museum and the Antique Car & Treasure Museum. The Regular OneDay All Attractions Pass is $24 (plus tax) for ages 12 and up, and $19 (plus tax) children ages 3-11. For an additional fee, guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Exit 8, Stone Mountain Park off Hwy 78 in Georgia. Call (770) 498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com.

Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills.

Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!

We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode

first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse.

Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness...

I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,

Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?

Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more!

We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16...

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Dr. Larry & Susan Hooks, Owners/Directors • Donna Bares,Asst. Director

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Only 1 /Mountain 2 hours from Huntsville Located on top of Lookout in Mentone, AL. Only a 3 hr drive.

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Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722 Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International

1 & 2Week Sessions for Ages 6-16

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

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purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 3241406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com.

The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa A private, non-profit, community-based organization located at 2213 University Blvd. in downtown Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are Monday-Friday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed most holidays. Special programs are held for preschoolers weekly. Admission is $5 per person, with no charge for museum members or children under the age of 1 year. Special discounts are available to schools. For info, call (205) 3494235 or visit www.chomonline.org.

Civil Rights Memorial A monument to those who died and/or risked death in the struggle for civil rights. 400 Washington Ave., Montgomery. For information, call 264-0286.

Cloverdale Playhouse “Third Tuesdays” Montgomery’s singers and songwriters perform in our intimate theater space each month on the third Tuesday.

Join us for a musical evening in Old Cloverdale. For details, call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse. org. Also contact us about volunteer opportunities,

B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS

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Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. Hands-On Gallery includes Granny’s Attic where you can try on clothes, uniforms, shoes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Discovery Boxes are filled with all kinds of Alabama history. Numerous handouts, videos on Selma to Montgomery March, Helen Keller, Mardi Gras and more. Photographs of Helen Keller on display. The Archives museum galleries are FREE to the public. Hours are Mon.-Sat., 8:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. Please note: The Research Room is only open the 2nd Saturday of each month. 624 Washington Ave., Montgomery. Call 242-4435 or visit www. archives.alabama.gov.

Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each Club is $20 a month.

Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel.

First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew,

from 9 a.m.-noon. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092.

Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information.

Artists In Action: 1st Wednesday and 3rd Saturday of EVERY month at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts from noon-2 p.m.. Local and regional artists at work. For more info, call 240-4333.

“Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333.

Bama Brushstrokes Art Club Meets 9 a.m., 2nd Saturdays of each month, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery.

Club members include beginners, intermediate and advanced skill levels. Activities include seminars with well-known artists. Classes are taught by our members or guest artists. We share our talents with our community in various programs, such as the Memory Box Project for hospice patients through sponsorship by the Society of Decorative Painters.

Our chapter creates finished paint projects and murals for various hospitals, libraries, and community-based organizations. For more info, contact Diana French, president, at garnet2@bellsouth.net.

The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational

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can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at

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Family Calendar auditions, and the Playhouse School!

Cool Kids Cook is a faith-based ministry with classes offered at different locations. Please call 220-3651 if you’d like to attend or volunteer with this ministry.

First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the war and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from FebruaryMay 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www. firstwhitehouse.org.

Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/features.

Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org).

W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. and Sun. Admission $3.50/person, children under 5 free, seniors

July 2012

$2.50/person. Mon-Thurs. at 3 p.m.; Sun. at 2 p.m.

1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 241-4799.

Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a family-friendly space filled with interactive and educational hands-on exhibits for children age eight and under. Imagine It! also offers birthday parties, memberships and field trip tours. Museum hours: Monday-Friday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $11 plus tax for adults and children ages 2 and above. Imagine It! is located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive.

Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more info, visit www.imagineit-cma.org or call (404) 659KIDS [5437].

Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history.

Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free.

Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m.

-noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org.

Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum.

Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500.

Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. -3 p.m.

Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10 Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Enjoy the outdoors together, while experiencing a variety of attractions, entertainment and recreation.

Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads and enjoy live entertainment, skilled craft demonstrations, shopping, dining and more. Additional attractions include: the 4-D Theater, The Great Barn, Paddlewheel Riverboat, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, Pedal Boats, Mini-Golf, New Camp Highland Outpost and Treehouse Challenge, Discovering Stone Mountain Museum and the Antique Car & Treasure Museum. The Regular OneDay All Attractions Pass is $24 (plus tax) for ages 12 and up, and $19 (plus tax) children ages 3-11. For an additional fee, guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Exit 8, Stone Mountain Park off Hwy 78 in Georgia. Call (770) 498-5690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com.

Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills.

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Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at

Moms Support

iConnect, Frazer Memorial UMC, 3rd Thursdays from 9-11:30 a.m. in the Parlor. Share life, encourage and be encouraged by other women. We meet for breakfast, fellowship and a speaker. Advance reservations are necessary for breakfast and preschool nursery. Cost is $5 per meeting. For more info or to make reservations, call Frazer’s Women’s Ministry at 495-6391 or e-mail Sandy Boswell at sandy@frazerumc.org La Leche League of Montgomery, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 2810 Atlanta Hwy., 3rd Fridays, 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, babies and children also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please call or email Bridgit (569-1500 or bridgitbroom@gmail.com) Making Our Mothering Matter (MOMM), First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the fellowship hall at First Baptist Church in Prattville. We offer a time for fellowship, Bible study and special guest speakers. Cost is $5 per meeting to cover childcare expenses, crafts and operating expenses. Childcare reservations are required. For more info, call Stacie Pruitt at 361-3386.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. Moms, are you looking for a good excuse to get out of the house? MOPS is a great opportunity to hone your mothering skills, meet new friends, and learn new things while deepening your relationship with God. Free childcare is provided. For more info, call Andrea McGregor at 799-7847, Laura Forman at 306-0352 or visit www.montgomeryfbc.org.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. If you are a pregnant mom or a mom of a young child, we have the place for you. MOPS is a place to find friendship, resources, and support for you as a woman and mother so you are not alone. Free childcare provided. For more info, please call Vaughn Forest Church at 279-5433 or e-mail vfcmops@gmail.com.

Pregnancy Loss/Infertility

Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977.

Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information.

Single Parents Support

Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC,

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Family Calendar Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info.

TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.

Special Needs Support

Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/ caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info.

Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 1st Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call 356-9048 or visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information.

Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Licensed audiologists make brief presentations explaining their local programs, their offices and the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/ of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net Parents of Special Needs Children, Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, 1st Sundays, 5-6:30 p.m.

July 2012

Please notify Chris Henderson if you plan to come.

(Home: 215-0427; e-mail: chenderson41@yahoo. com River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo.com

Teens/Families Support

Life is Fun Together (LIFT): A FREE Relationship and Marriage Enrichment Program providing different educational and fun-filled seminars to individuals and families. The LIFT Program is provided through Family Guidance Center of Alabama in partnership with the Alabama Community Healthy Marriage Initiative. Call Tonya Rogers at 270-4100 for class start dates or more info!

“Relationship Smarts Plus” teaches teens in grades 7-12 about healthy relationships in a fun, interactive way. Six-week sessions are available throughout the year on Mondays from 4–6 p.m.

“Smart Steps for Stepfamilies” is a six-week session that helps stepfamilies learn strategies to strengthen and stabilize their families. Parents and children ages 8 and up meet in their own groups, then meet up at the end of each session for a fun family activity!

“Together We Can” gives non-married parents the skills they need to maintain healthy relationships between themselves and their children.

“How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette)” teaches single adults how to get the most out of dating.

“Mastering the Magic of Love” is a communication class for all couples. Bring your spouse, fiancé, or that special someone in your life with you to learn new communication techniques and enhance your skills as a team of two. All adults are welcome, including graduates looking for a refresher!

Also…. LIFT has a brand-new program just for parents of teens!!!

“Bridging the Great Divide: Parents and Teens Communicating About Healthy Relationships” is perfect for parents or guardians who want open lines of communication with their teen. Topics include “Principles of Dating & Healthy Relationships,” “Sensitive Topics,” “Rules & Boundaries,” and more!!! Building D of Family Guidance Center, 2358 Fairlane Drive. This workshop lasts only three weeks, so call TODAY to reserve your spot!

You can look at a calendar of LIFT classes & events online by visiting our LIFT web page: http://www. familyguidancecenter.org/ Remember, LIFT has FREE programs for singles, couples, stepfamilies, parents, teens, and now parents of teens! Call 2704100 or e-mail trogers@familyguidancecenter.org if you didn’t see your class listed so we can contact you when the next one starts.

Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents. This group began March 29 using the life skills training. Contact Felicia Pressley at Total Life Connection, 244-5061.

N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2012 2011

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This Month Sunday, July 1

Summer at the Rock (Stone Mountain, Georgia) Through July 29 The adventures ensue this summer with Summer at the Rock presented by Humana. Experience exciting attractions daily such as the all-new Geyser Towers, family-friendly entertainment including the new Parrots of Rio show and a nightly Lasershow! Be sure to save on tickets with the Family Value Pass.

Stone Mountain is located 16 miles east of downtown Atlanta, on Highway 78. For 24-hour park info, call 800-401-2407 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com.

Dora Exhibit at Birmingham’s McWane Center Through September 4 “The Dora & Diego: Let’s Explore Exhibit” will be at the McWane Science Center in downtown Birmingham. The exhibit features beloved characters Dora and Diego from Nickelodeon’s preschool series Dora the Explorer and Go, Diego, Go!, along with their friends Boots, Map, Backpack, Isa, Tico, and of course Swiper, now in their own exhibit for children to explore as they learn and play along. Visit www. mcwane.org for details.

Summer Fun at Callaway Gardens -- Through September 4 Bring the whole family for the Florida State University Flying High Circus performances, swimming, shuffleboard, miniature golf, and much more. For a small fee you can have a ton of fun playing on Aqua Island, Blaster Boats and Laser Tag. Beach open: May 25-September 4. Circus open: June 2-August 3 (daily performances except Mondays and Wednesdays). For more info, call 1-800-CALLAWAY (2255292) or visit www.callawaygardens.com.

Jasmine Hill Gardens and Outdoor Museums Open in Wetumpka -- Weekends Through October 27 Japanese cherries, bulbs and many flowering shrubs are in bloom when the 20-acre Jasmine Hill Gardens opens for the season. Stroll through Greek statuary and enjoy the outdoors. Fri. & Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. Call 567-6463 or visit www. jasminehill.org for more info.

Monday, July 2

Youth Swimming Lessons in Prattville Ages 3 and up. $50 per child (additional $10 for residents outside of city limits). There will be no refunds once a session begins. Days lost to inclement weather will not be made up. Times: 10:15-11 a.m.; 11:05-11:50 a.m.; 5:40-6:25 p.m. 1st session: July 2-13; and 2nd session: July 16-27. Call 334361-3640.

Childbirth Preparation/Lamaze sponsored by Baptist Health -- Mondays through July 30 Registered nurse instructors discuss birthing methods (including Cesarean), comfort measures for labor, medications and anesthesia options (including epidurals), postpartum care and baby care basics. Coping techniques (including Lamaze) are included. Expectant couples participating in this comprehensive class series will attend class once a week for five consecutive weeks. This class meets 6-8 p.m. in the classroom at the Baptist Breast Health Center, 6880 Winton Blount Blvd.

Fee is $60. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Class sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required. For more info, call 273-4445.

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Family Calendar Blackberry & Blueberry Picking at Barber Berry Farm -- Through Mid-July More than three acres of blackberries and blueberries, a variety of fruit trees and vegetables from a hydroponic vegetable garden. Mon., Wed. & Fri., 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Call (334) 549-4710 or visit www.barberberryfarm.com for details.

Human Rights Activist Helen Suzman Exhibit at Troy University Rosa Parks Museum Through August 27 Explore the life and legacy of South African human rights activist Helen Suzman. Suzman was a member of the South African Parliament from 1953-1989 and was the sole opposition voice condemning apartheid during the 13-year period (1961-1974) when she was the governing body’s only member of the Progressive Party. The exhibit explores nearly four decades of Suzman’s life and vision through photographs, personal letters, quotations from speeches and news articles. For more info, please contact Viola Moten at 241-8701 or vmoten@troy.edu.

Tuesday, July 3

Prattville-Autauga Farmers Market -- Tuesdays, Thursdays & Saturdays through August 31 Pratt Square Shopping Center on Memorial Drive in Prattville. Tuesdays & Thursdays: 3-6 p.m. and Saturdays: 7-11 a.m. McQueen Smith Road Farmers Market (next to Gilmore Ford). For more info, call Yvonne Thomas at 334-201-5209 or the Autauga County Extension office at 334-361-7273.

Wednesday, July 4

Blackberry Smoke at Riverfront Amphitheatre

www.montgomeryparents.com

July 2012

7 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance; $15 day of the show. General admission seating. Bring your own lawn chair. No outside food or beverages. No pets.

Concert is rain or shine. To purchase tickets visit the Box Office at 200 Coosa Street, call 625-2100 or visit www.funontheriver.net.

Summer Fest in Pike Road Invite your friends and family to join you at Summer Fest, the Town of Pike Road’s annual Fourth of July event at The Waters! This year’s event will feature food, live music and fireworks, and admission is $10 per vehicle. Proceeds will help construct a veterans’ memorial on the Old Town Hall site. Gates open at 5:30, the band goes on stage at 6, and fireworks will begin at dark. Bring a picnic or purchase BBQ from the Pike Road Lions Club. For more information, e-mail townofpikeroad@pikeroad.us.

July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party at Callaway Gardens Spend the day at Robin Lake Beach and enjoy beach games, live music and fabulous fireworks. Visit www. callawaygardens.com or call 1-800-CALLAWAY. Annual Boat Parade Presented by Russell Marine Kowaliga Marina, Alexander City. Boats of all sizes, shapes and decorations parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor, circling just past the lighthouse and back to Kowaliga Marina. Top honors for tallest flag, largest flag, most patriotic and most creative.

Visit www.russellmarine.net or call 857-2111.

4th of July Music Blast and Fireworks at Lake Martin Amphitheater Gates open at 5 p.m. Music, 6-9 p.m. Fireworks 9-9:45 p.m. FREE events. Visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com or call (334) 857-2111.

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Independence Day at Old Alabama Town Spend the holiday learning how early Alabamians of all backgrounds lived and worked in central Alabama. Open for self-guided tours from 9 a.m.-3 p.m.

Visit www.oldalabamatown.com or call 240-4500.

Prattville Independence Day Celebration Downtown. Free. Parade begins at 9 a.m. at the Autauga County Courthouse. Afterward, the Lions Club BBQ and Camp Stew Sale will take place at Pratt Park at 10 a.m., as well as the “Cardboard Boat Races” at the City Pool. Fireworks will be at dark at Stanley-Jensen Stadium. Gates open at 6 p.m. Live entertainment and food vendors. Call (334) 358-0297 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov Wetumpka’s 4th of July Celebration Free. Behind City Administrative Building. Live entertainment, street dance, free children’s activities and fireworks. 5 p.m. until. Call 567-5147 or visit www.cityofwetumpka.com

Friday, July 6

Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 mths - 3 yrs) Zoo Animals at 10 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol. com or 334-271-3264.

Music and Storytime for Babies (Newborn - 15 months) Peek-a-Boo at 11:15 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First

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Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, instrument play, scarf play, dancing, bubbles, and a storytime.

The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

Late Night with YMCA Goodtimes Also July 13, 20 & 27 A weekly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of five-to 12-year-olds offered at the YMCA Goodtimes Center on Bell Road. Time is 6:30-11:30 p.m. and supper is included. Cost is $15 per child and no reservations are required. Child to staff ratio is 15:1.

Call 279-8878 for more info.

Saturday, July 7

Home Depot Kids’ Workshop Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is build a moving truck. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.noon. Ages 5-12. Free.

Fright Night at the Montgomery Biscuits 7:05 p.m. It’s halfway to Halloween, so dress up in your favorite costume and come out to the ballpark for a Halloween-themed night! There will be trick-or-treat stations all over the park, a pre-game costume parade, an in-game costume contest and a special MAX fireworks finale! For details, visit www.biscuitsbaseball. com or call 323-2255.

Breastfeeding Class Breastfeeding and lactation education designed for expectant mothers, fathers, and/or support persons. Class includes benefits, basic breastfeeding techniques, and prevention of common problems.

10 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. $15 covers mother and support person. Pre-registration required. Call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/ events to register or for more info.

Family Fun Nights at Eastdale Mall Saturdays through August 4 Eastdale Mall’s Family Fun Nights provide families in the River Region with an exciting evening filled with hands-on activities, story times, performances presented by area attractions and discounts from participating mall merchants. Family Fun Nights are scheduled between 5 and 7 p.m. Children 10 and under will be able to ice skate for free and ride the carousel for half price during Family Fun Nights.

Santuck Flea Market -- Also August 4 An outdoor flea market with more than 450 booths featuring arts, crafts, antiques, novelties, imports, food, and more. The Santuck Flea Market is open the first Saturday of each month from March - December from daylight until 2 p.m. RAIN OR SHINE. Free admission, free parking available. Call 567-7400 or visit www.santuckfleamarket.com The Shoppes at EastChase Farmers’ Market Every Saturday through August 25 7 a.m.-noon in the parking lot between Dillard’s and Earth Fare Organic Grocer. The Farmers’ Market producers and growers offer unique items such as organic meats and milk, goat cheese, natural bath products and hand-made soaps, honey, sprout breads and fruit pastries all made from locally grown ingredients. For more information, call 279-6046.

MainStreet Alexander City Farmers’ Market Through October 29 At the Fountain on Broad Street, Alex City. Local

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www.montgomeryparents.com

Family Calendar farmers, craftsmen and craftswomen present fruits, vegetables, honey, butters, plants, bird houses and more. 7-11:30 a.m. Call (256) 329-9227 or visit www.mainstreetac.org for details.

Sunday, July 8

Sunday Kids’ Day at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Games -- Also July 15 & 29 $5 all-you-can-play wristbands give kids unlimited inflatable time at Big Mo’s Dugout! Kids can also create custom posters, megaphones and baseball fans for free. After the game, kids have the opportunity to run the bases courtesy of Coke. For details, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call 323-2255.

Monday, July 9

Alabama Christian Miss & Mrs. Open State Pageant Application Deadline This pageant will be held Saturday, July 21, at Destiny Christian Church in Prattville. Recognized as “The Pageant with a Higher Purpose,” this Christianthemed pageant is open to young girls, ages 6-30 years, who live in Alabama. Space is limited. In order to participate, a contestant must also include with her application, a letter of recommendation from her pastor or youth minister attesting to her involvement in her church and her good moral character. Throughout the competition, the girls will work to develop the Fruits of the Spirit which are: love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, as found in Galatians 5:22-23.

There will be eight age categories for the pageant: Petite Miss: 6-7 years, Little Miss: 8-9, Young Miss:10-11, Pre-Teen Miss: 12–13, Junior Miss: 14–15 years, Teen Miss: 16 –17 years, Miss: 18-23 years and Ms./Mrs: 24-30 years. The Petite to Young Miss Pageant will be held at 10 a.m. on July 21, and the Pre-Teen to Mrs. program will begin at 2:30 p.m.

This is a semi-natural pageant where age-appropriate, modest attire and “natural” are stressed. To download an application and see the pageant rules, please visit www.sterlingmiss.org and click on the “Alabama Christian Miss” tab. For more information, call (334) 313-5444. Those interested may also email a request for an application to: Info@SterlingMiss.org O’Connor Montgomery Junior Tennis Camps Through July 12 Lagoon Park. Ages 4-6 9-10 a.m. Ages 7-17, 9-11 a.m. For more info, visit oconnortenniscenter.com or call 240-4884.

Max Movie Mondays at the Riverfront Admission is FREE and the movies begin at sundown. Bring the family, your blankets and catch a movie under the stars! Coolers are allowed, but please no outside alcohol. Schedule is July 9-Dolphin Tale; July 16-The Mighty Macs; July 23-Puss in Boots; July 30-Alvin & the Chipmunks: ChipWrecked. For more info, visit www.funontheriver.net

Tuesday, July 10

Music and Storytime for Families (Newborn-5 yrs) Zoo Animals at 11:15 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based family music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, and a storytime. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

www.montgomeryparents.com

July 2012

Wednesday, July 11

Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 mnths-3 yrs) Zoo Animals at 5:45 p.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based family music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, and a storytime. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

Prenatal Breastfeeding Class sponsored by Baptist Health Provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding. Partners are welcome to participate.

Class meets 6-8:15 p.m. in the classroom at the Baptist Breast Health Center, Winton Blount Blvd. $15 per family. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Class sizes are limited and prepregistration is required. For more info, call 273-4445.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents NANTA Cooking Show -- Through July 15 Direct from South Korea, ASF will present the Broadway and international hit NANTA Cooking Show.

Combine one part Iron Chef and one part STOMP! and you get NANTA. This amazing theatrical spectacular features five fabulous Korean chefs that drum (with knives), juggle (with knives) and literally cook their way through a fast-paced evening of music, laughter and culinary delight. Visit www.asf.net or call 2715353 for tickets.

Summer Movie Night at The Tipping Point -- Also July 25 Bring the family out for movies on the big outdoor inflatable screen! Showtime starts at sundown. Remember to bring blankets or low-back chairs and check Tipping Point’s Facebook page for updates in case of bad weather at www.facebook.com/​thetippingpoint. No outside food or beverages. July 11: Little Mermaid; July 25: Yo Gabba Gabba. Event Location: The Tipping Point at Hampstead

Thursday, July 12

Cloverdale Playhouse Troupe Presents Fables Here and Then -- Through July 14 July 12 & 13 at 7 p.m., July 14 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

A collection of stories and legends from around the world adapted by David Feldshuh. With music and magic, wonderful young actors from our community present the Playhouse Troupe’s inaugural production. Call (334) 262-1530 for tickets. $10 adults, $5 children under 12. Visit http://www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 mths - 3yrs) Zoo Animals at 10 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity.

The cost is $8 per child. To register or find out more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

Music and Storytime for Preschoolers (3-5 yrs ) Camping in the Great Outdoors 11:15 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. The cost is $8 per child. To register or find out more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

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Friday, July 13

Parents’ Night Out at the Wetumpka Family YMCA A monthly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of kids 12 years and under offered the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Games, arts and crafts, a movie and hot dogs are offered. Cost is $10 per child for members and $15 per child for non-members. You must register by the Thursday prior. Call 567-8282 for more info.

AUM Hosts Beach Party Summer Bash Bring the kids to celebrate from 6-8 p.m. on the quad and enjoy food, games and a family-friendly band. Admission is free, but guests are encouraged to bring a nonperishable food item for the Montgomery Food Bank.

Today’s event is the second installment of the third annual AUM Summer Concert Series and features a beach party with the cool reggae james of The Good Doctor. Outdoor games and activities will be offered, including sidewalk chalk, bubbles, coloring pages, Frisbees, and hula-hoops.

Bring your own lawn chairs and picnic blankets. Outside food is welcome, but Boomer T’s Barbecue will sell hamburgers, hot dogs, barbeque, loaded nachos, drinks and snacks (credit cards and cash accepted). In case of inclement weather, festivities will be moved inside the AUM Physical Education Complex. Learn more at www. aum.edu/summerconcert.

ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization) Monthly Meetings -- Also July 27 ECHO is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area. The group usually meets the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Coosada Baptist Church on Coosada Road, Coosada. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com

Saturday, July 14

State Farmers Market Day Free. State Farmers Market, 1655 Federal Drive. Watermelon eatin’ and corn shuckin’ contests, hot air balloon, pony rides, auction. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Call 242-5350 for more info.

Baby Boot Camp Sponsored by Baptist Health An abbreviated version of the Childbirth Preparation/ Lamaze Class offered by Baptist Health. Registered nurse instructors discuss birthing methods (including Cesarean), comfort measures for labor, medications and anesthesia options (including epidurals), postpartum care and baby care basics. Coping techniques (including Lamaze) are included in this class. This class meets from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Baptist Breast Health Center Classroom, Winton Blount Blvd. The fee is $45. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required.

Class sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required.

For more info, please call 273-4445.

Maternity Area Tour @ Baptist Medical Center East A tour of the Labor/Delivery/Recovery (LDR), Postpartum and Nursery areas is offered to those not attending the Childbirth Preparation Class (a tour is provided as part of that class). Please meet in the main lobby of Baptist Medical Center East, 400 Taylor Rd., 10 minutes before the scheduled tour. The tour is at 10:30 a.m. Tour sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required. For more info, call 273-4445.

Riverfront Park FREE Family Event Offered the second Saturday of every month from 5-8 p.m. Actvities will include: live entertainment, interactive activities for all ages (bocce ball & more), food vendors and cocktails served from the SandBAR! Vendors include: iCantina, Dreamland, Peppertree Steaks and

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Open 7 days a week Minor Emergencies School and Sports Injuries Wound Care Dental Complaints Pediatric Complaints Colds, Flus & Illness Cuts, Lacerations & Bruises Eyes, Ears, Nose & Throat Gynecology and Women’s Health Immunization/Vaccination Rashes, Poison Ivy, Allergic Reactions Minor Burns Physical Exams Insect & Animal Bites Gastrointestinal Complaints Work Injuries Work Physical School Sports Physical Skin Disorders Neurological Disorders Blood Pressure Checks Digital X-Ray CD Copies Available Wireless EKG On-site Digital X-rays, Lab & EKG Results while you wait Lab is CLIA and DOT certified

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Way Off Broadway Theatre in Prattville Presents FREE Drama Workshops -- Also July 18 & 19 Designed for those who have an interest in acting or working behind the scenes. The maximum number of participants for each workshop is 60. Space is extremely limited and registration is required. All workshops will be held from 6-7 p.m. at the Way Off Broadway Theatre, located at 203 W. 4th Street.

Tuesday is for ages 12-14; Wednesday and Thursday are for ages 14-18. For more info, call 358-0297.

Summer Fun Day at the Montgomery Biscuits 12:05 p.m. Special day for youth camps and child care centers featuring pre-game autographs, prizes, Big Mo and dollar hot dogs! For details, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call 323-2255.

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Emerald Coast Golf Professional Tour Summer Championship and Professional Golfers’ Association (PGA) Qualifier Tournament -- Through July 20 Arrowhead Country Club. This 54-hole event will include a Pro-am course and a local charity benefit program among other family activities. Several past alumni include 2012 Master’s Champion Bubba Watson, Joe Durant (former Huntingdon College player), Boo Weekley and Heath Slocum and former University of Alabama stand-out Matthew Swan, just to name a few. For more info, please contact the Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Convention and Visitor Bureau at 261-1100 or see www. visitingmontgomery.com.

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Old Alabama Town Saturday Jam Sessions Also July 28 9 a.m.-noon at the 1840s Rose House. Musicians, bring your acoustic instruments and join the fun! Admission to the jam sessions is free; tickets to tour Old Alabama Town are available at the Reception Center. For more info, call 240-4500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com.

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Wednesday, July 18

Sizzling Summer Studio Series at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also July 19; August 8 & 9 1-2 p.m. Join us in the studios to create a different art project each day. Explore a variety of art media, including watercolors & “bubble” painting, tissue paper collage, oil pastels resist, printing and more!

Cost: $5 members/$10 non-members for one class; $15 members/$30 non-members for the series of four classes. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333.

9540 Wynlakes Place, Montgomery, AL 36117

Phone: 334-395-9933 | Fax: 334-395-9931

www.VaughnUrgentCare.com AL-0000434597

Thursday, July 19

ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “Alabama and the War of 1812: After the Horseshoe,” presented by Jim Parker.

Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.

Capital City Shape Notes Concert Free. Old Alabama Town. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Singers sing from shape-note hymn books published in Alabama, including The Sacred Harp and The Christian Harmony. For more info, call 242-4076 or visit www. oldalabamatown.com

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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Actual patient. Individual results will vary.

www.SmartSmiles.com www.montgomeryparents.com

Family Calendar Millbrook Community Players Present Rodger’s and Hammerstein’s State Fair -- Through July 22 and July 26-28 Directed by John Collier. All shows at 7:30 p.m. except for July 22 at 2 p.m. Set against the colorful backdrop of an American heartland tradition, State Fair travels with the Frake family as they leave behind the routine of the farm for three days of adventure at the annual Iowa State Fair. Set to the magical strains of an Academy Award-winning score and augmented by other titles from the Rodgers and Hammerstein songbook. Please call (334) 782-7317 or visit www. millbrooktheatre.com for ticket information.

Friday, July 20

Performance on the Green Free event at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Blount Cultural Park. Enjoy a magical performance by the Montgomery Ballet. 8-10 p.m. For more info, visit www.montgomeryballet.org or call 409-0522.

SuperWhy! Live in Concert at Birmingham Jefferson Civic Center 6:30 p.m. For tickets, call 800-745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com

Saturday, July 21

City of Wetumpka presents River and Blues Music and Arts Festival 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. featuring jazz, zydeco, blues, arts & crafts exhibitors, food vendors, talent competition & children’s area. Deadline to apply for the City of Wetumpka’s Festival is July 7. E-mail Tiffany Robinson at trobinson@cityofwetumpka.com to receive an application. Visit https://www.facebook.com/ WetumpkasRiverandBlues for more info.

Animal Enrichment Day at the Montgomery Zoo 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Discover new facts on some animals that may be your favorite. Enjoy observing the animals having a good time with their treats.

Admission charged. For more info, call 240-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com Sibling Preparation This fun one-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3-8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. This class meets from 1-2 p.m. in the classroom at Baptist Medical Center East, 400 Taylor Rd. The fee is $10 per family. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Class sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required. For more info, please call 273-4445.

B-52’s at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre 8 p.m. concert. For tickets or more info, visit www. foxtheatre.org or call (404) 881-2100.

Monday, July 23

Alabama Dance Theatre’s Annual Summer Dance Seminar -- Through August 6 Intermediate and advanced dancers are eligible for this two-week intensive seminar which features classical ballet, modern and jazz classes taught by a nationally recognized guest faculty featuring former American Ballet Theatre soloist Shawn Black and former artistic director of Gwinnett Ballet Theatre, Lisa Sheppard Robson. The Summer Dance Seminar culminates with two free performances of “Stars on the Riverfront” featuring a unique array of classical and contemporary works. Admission is free. Performances are Sunday, August 5, and Monday, August 6, at 7:30 p.m. at the

www.montgomeryparents.com

July 2012

Riverwalk Amphitheater. For more info, call 241-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com.

O’Connor Montgomery Junior Tennis Camps Through July 26 O’Connor Tennis Center. Ages 4-6, 9-10 a.m. Ages 7-17, 9-11 a.m. For more info, visit oconnortenniscenter.com or call 240-4884.

Tuesday, July 24

Zelda Fitzgerald’s Birthday Bash Th F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum. Join the museum staff as they celebrate Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald’s birthday with jazz music, hors d’oeuvres, drinks and games. 6-10 p.m. Visit www.fitzgeraldmuseum. net or call 264-4222.

Wednesday, July 25

My Kids Attic School Uniform Sale -- Through July 28 10 a.m.-6 p.m. each day; July 28 is 1/2 Price Sale Day. Visit www.mykidsattic.biz or call 270-1456 for details.

Thursday, July 26

Wetumpka Depot Presents Panache -- Through August 11 We often find that when we search for one thing, we find something unexpected and much more important.

That is just one of the themes woven through Panache, a tender comedy that revolves around two very different people who ultimately discover they are much more alike than they are different. Written by Don Gordon and directed by Tom Salter. For tickets, visit www.wetumpkadepot.com or call 868-1440.

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents Jack Heifner’s Patio/Porch -- Through August 12 The script explores the relationships between sisters in Patio and mothers and daughters in Porch. Both are set in a small Southern town in the heat of summer and have a mixture of humorous and dramatic elements.

For more info, visit wobt.prattvilleal.gov or call the Cultural Arts Office at (334) 358-0297.

The Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of the Greater Montgomery Area invites women who are new residents in the area to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at Arrowhead Country Club. This month will feature Stephanie Atchinson from the Alabama Dept. of Corrections. Cost is $15 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, July 23, to russell. cynthia98@yahoo.com or call 300-4949. Visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com.

ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-7:30 p.m. There is still time to join this fun program for artists and those interested in art, as there are three sessions remaining: Thursdays, July 26, September 27 and November 29. Each session, artists can bring a work of art to show for friendly feedback. Light refreshments are served, along with a lot of camaraderie.

There is a cost. Visit www.mmfa.org or call 240-4333.

Friday, July 27

Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 mths-3 yrs) Planes, Trains, and Things that Move at 10 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. Cost is $8 per child. To register or find out more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

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Music and Storytime for Babies (Newborn-15 mths) Mother Goose Rhymes at 11:15 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, instrument play, scarf play, dancing, bubbles and a storytime.

Cost is $8 per child. To register or find out more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

Millbrook Summerfest Free. The Pines Golf Course. Celebrate with entertainment beginning at 6 p.m. with live music by area bands. Concessions available. Fireworks display at 9 p.m. Call (334) 285-6428 or visit www.cityofmillbrook.org

Saturday, July 28

Back to School Blast Sponsored by Woodland United Methodist Church 8-11 a.m. Woodland UMC, 4428 Wallahatchie Road, Pike Road (intersection of Vaughn & Wallahatchie Roads). For all children ages K5-12th grades. Free school supplies (including bookbags to first 600 children, pencils, paper and other supplies); health screenings (blood pressure, diabetes, vision, hearing, & dental screens ); fun & giveaways (such as free school shoes in limited sizes/amounts--first come, first served); games & prizes; snacks; free haircuts & much, much more...

Everything is FREE!!! Call the church office for more info at 272-7230.

The Fab Four – The Ultimate Tribute with Ed Sullivan at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre 8 p.m. The Fab Four is a California-based tribute band paying homage to The Beatles. Founded in 1997 by Ron McNeil, John Lennon impersonator and president of The Fab Four Corp., the group began performing Beatles music throughout Southern California. The band’s beginning included regular performances at Disneyland’s Tomorrowland Terrace, The Hop and Scruffy O’Sheas. For ticket info, visit www.mpaconline.org or call 481-5100.

Monday, July 30

O’Connor Montgomery Junior Tennis Camps Through August 2 O’Connor Tennis Center. Ages 4-6, 9-10 a.m. Ages 7-17, 9-11 a.m. For more info, visit oconnortenniscenter.com or call 240-4884.

Tuesday, July 31

The Wiggles Live in Concert at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre 2:30 and 6:30 p.m. performances. The original Fab Four from Down Under are back together! The Wiggles summer tour will reunite Anthony, Jeff, and Murray with Yellow Wiggle Greg Page as they perform together for the first time in five years. For tickets or more info, visit www.foxtheatre.org or call (404) 881-2100

Thursday, August 2

Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents Oliver Through August 4; Also August 9-11; 16-18; 23-25 Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30.

Tickets are $25 and include dinner and the show.

Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $20. Reservations must be paid in advance. Make reservations or for more information, call 386-7190 or e-mail boxoffice@faulkner.edu.

Saturday, August 4

Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose

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to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, the role of the coach, and proper care of mother and baby after delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year, from 10 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org.

Monday, August 6

O’Connor Montgomery Junior Tennis Camps Through August 9 O’Connor Tennis Center. Ages 4-6, 9-10 a.m. Ages 7-17, 9-11 a.m. For more info, visit oconnortenniscenter.com or call 240-4884.

Infant Safety/CPR Sponsored by Baptist Health Also August 7 Childproofing methods, care of the choking infant, infant rescue breathing and infant CPR skills are covered with hands-on practices using ACTAR CPR doll for class participants. Class meets at 6 p.m. on designated Mondays or Tuesdays in the classroom at the Baptist Breast Health Center, Winton Blount Blvd. $10 per person. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Class sizes are limited and preregistration is required. For more info, call 273-4445.

Tuesday, August 7

“Your Amazing Newborn” Class Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

FREE. One-night class taught by a pediatrician and nursing staff. Presents new concepts in newborn care and helps alleviate parenting jitters by soon-to-be parents. Grandparents welcome. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 or visit www.jackson.org/events.

Thursday, August 9

Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 mths-3 yrs) At the Beach at 10 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery hosts a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, storytime and an art activity. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 271-3264.

Music and Storytime for Babies (Newborn-15 mths) Let’s Play at 11:15 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery hosts a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, instrument play, scarf play, dancing, bubbles, and storytime. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 271-3264.

Music and Storytime for Preschoolers (3-5 years) Sounds Galore at 12:30 p.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery hosts a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, instrument play, scarf play, dancing, bubbles, and storytime. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 271-3264.

Calendar information due by the 15th of each month.

Send an email to editor@ montgomeryparents.com.

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

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Business Card Directory

Summer Tutoring Our Popular Summer Programs Include: • ACT/SAT Test Prep • Study Skills • Reading • Math • Writing • Affordable Rates • Qualified Tutors Call to Reserve Your Tutor Today!

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Number ONE Reason To Advertise...WOMEN! www.montgomeryparents.com

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Business Card Directory

Amber Holley Owner/Operator

• Serving the Tri-County Area • Ages 2-6 • Birthday Parties • Church Events • Pre-Schools • Block Parties

334

324.4628

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Fall Registration August 7th & 8th 4:00 pm - 6:00 pm

July Summer Dance Camp July 9th - 13th Call Now 334-277-1098 or email ucantap2@charter.net www.tonyaspeedsdanceconnection.com

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Are Your Customers WOMEN?

“Parents in the Know, Know Montgomery Parents”

MontgomeryParents The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

So Are Our READERS!

We Offer SMART ADVERTISING! Call Today, 213-7940

www.montgomeryparents.com freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com

Home Based Business Directory Saxon Lawn Service

You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing Please call 274-0324

Piano Lessons

Make the Joy of Music Yours

Beginners, Intermediate, or Advanced. Experienced Teacher & Adjudicator. MTNA and Nationally Certified. Summer lessons available. Call now for information at 334-265-8154.

Home Childcare Experienced childcare in my Prattville home. Will keep children before and after school. Efficient rates.

Any age. Call Patricia Thomas at 901-395 7285.

Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.

Provides breastfeeding education, antepartum doula services, childbirth education, and Happiest Baby on the Block classes.

Handmade breastfeeding greeting cards and breast pump rental services also available. For more info please contact Tangela Boyd at 334-782-9816.

Email: Tangela@mommymilkandmeinc.com Website: www.mommymilkandmeinc.com

Laundry

Without Detergent or Fabric Softeners / No Hot Water Average family saves about $500/per year Call Judi for details at 334-220-7229.

Piano Teacher

Tutoring Services

Does your child need extra help with reading and math skills? I’m an experienced school teacher of more than 15 years and work with patience and understanding. I work with children from pre-K through 3rd grade. Call Cynthia Henderson at 334.201.9524 or 334.239.9630 or email cynthiaahenderson@gmail.com.

Nationally certified-Children and adults welcome.

1829 Hillhedge Drive. Please call Miss Bickerstaff at 262-3341.

SIMPLY FUN NAILS

Kiddie Kat Parties

Introducing Jamberry NailShields, heat activated-simply use your hair dryer.

No chipping, No Peeling, No fumes, Fun For All Ages. Over 250 Designs to Choose From. Order Online or In-home parties. Have a Parent and Children nail fun day with friends. Go to www. simplyfunnails.com or call: Peggy 334-568-9260.

Email: simplyfunnails@gmail.com

Geeks Rule Tutoring

Get Ready for Summer Tutoring!

ProMath Tutoring: Dr. Joan N. Powell ~30+ years experience; Grades 5 thru college~ Subjects: General Math Calculus; Finite, Statistics & Standardized test preparation Contact Info: 334.244.6681 Home 334.233.4559 Cell jpowell@aum.edu

Lucky Lawns

Party Planner for Kids & Teens Amazing Parties for Amazing Prices; Party Package only $60!

Call or email today at partygirlahmanimurray@gmail. com or (334)-324-3970.

Top quality lawn care for your home and business!

Dependable tri-county service. Call James today at 424-2974 for a free estimate.

20% off for referrals!

Work From Home

Birthday Parties

Katie Garner Experience in arithmatic, pre-alegebra, algebra, trig, geometry, precalc, and calculus. Affordable rates, no contract. Call 334-322-7791.

Looking for highly motivated, leadership minded, self driven individuals who are looking to make money from home using social media! Ideal for college students & teachers home for summer. Income potential limitless! 805-621-2466

Hand-n-Hand Teaching Materials is offering Birthday Parties for children from birth to age 8.

Plan a summer party for your child with Melissa & Doug Products. Call (334) 651-1292.

Need a “Phenomenal” Independent Beauty Consultant?

Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training

Sherrie’s House Cleaning

I have been pet training and pet sitting for over 6 years.

Certified Pet Trainer, Free Consultation, Reasonable Prices Call Courtney (334) 354-4183

Contact Kesha D Shaw at 334-538-8643 or visit www.marykay.com/kdshaw01 e-mail: kdshaw01@marykay.com

Williams Carpentry

BJ’s Cleaning Service

Porches, remodeling, sheet rock, painting, hardwood floors.

Call Robert Williams at (home) 361-7307 or (cell) 699-3864.

“We Clean When You Don’t Want To” Move In/Move Out, Residential and Commercial, Construction Sites Quality and Reasonable Rates Call Betty Dennis, Cleaning Specialist, at 334.303.2585 for a free estimate.

Independent, Professional, Experienced, Excellent References, Reasonable Rates and Free Estimates Call 334-782-7859

Work From Home

Need 10 people to join our team. Full training provided.

You will need internet and phone with long distance.

Call 334.245.4196 or email martinaperry@mail.com

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

The FREE AD GUY reserves the right to refuse any ad in case it’s not appropriate for our readers.

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Advertising Information

RESOURCES M o n t g o m e r y P a r e n t s ’ Advertiser Directory

Welcome to the Montgomery Parents’ Advertiser Directory. This section was created to help our readers easily access advertising information in our magazine. We know that readers consider our advertisers as valuable a resource as the editorial content in Montgomery Parents.

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

A Great Start Learning Academy, 35 Ace Bowling Center, 2 Adventure Sports II, 63 Alabama Animal Alliance, 43 Alabama Army National Guard, 85 Alabama Christian Academy, 28 Ala Dept of Public Health, Inside Front, 9 Alabama Dance Theater, 25 Arts in Motion, 82 ASKIN/Synergy House, 93 Auditory/Visual Enhancement, 8 Baptist East Hospital, 3 Baptist Hospital, 57 Bradford Health Services, Inside Back Cover Brandi McNew-Counselor, 51 Bruster’s Ice Cream, 61 Buckmaster’s Expo, 18 Carriage Hills Animal Hospital & Pet Resort, 77 Catoma Baptist Church Preschool, 33 Centre for Performing Arts, 76 Chapman Orthodontics, 83 Chris Neil Guitar Lessons, 86 Churchill Academy, 17 Club Z At-Home Tutoring, 27, 92 Dance Generation, 39 Dancewear, Etc., 93 Dentistry for Children, 44 Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 1 Donna Young, Supreme Landing, 93 Dr. Bradley Willis-Dentist, 66 Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 35 Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 62 E & S Hobbies, Inc., 93 Eastdale Mall, 49 Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 79 ERA Lake Martin, Mike Langston, 85 Evangel Christian Academy, 30 Family Karate Center, 7 Faulkner University Paralegal Degree, 75 Montgomery Parents I July 2012

First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 4 First UMC Montgomery, 41 First UMC Prattville, 87 Fleming’s Martial Arts, 31 Frazer UMC, 69 Grace Childcare Center, 45 Handwriting for Kids, 93 Holy Cross Episcopal School, 26 Hooper Academy, 15 Huntingdon Basketball Camp, 44 Huntington Learning Center, 33 Jenna Ann Photography, 92 KLynn Ice Skating School, 76 Kazoo Toys, 67 Kids Carousel, 20 Kingry Orthodontics, 53 Kumon East, 47 Kumon Central, 31 Lagoon Park Golf & Tennis, 87 Laura’s School of Dance, 18 Learning Tree Child Care, 84 Lil Pea Pod Boutique, 91 Mareonta’s Fashion, 93 Montessori @ Hampstead, 82 Montessori @ Mulberry, 68 Montessori Academy, 24 Montgomery Ballet, 32 Montgomery Humane Society, 56 Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 85 Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 78 Montgomery Taekwondo, 92 Montgomery Youth Chorale, 38 Montgomery Zoo, 59 Mrs. Sandy’s House, 92 My Kids Attic, The Shoppes at, 19, 37 New Park, 13 O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 72 Paint and Clay, 68 Party Ponies by Renfroe & Daughters, 92 95

Pediatric Cardiology, 42 Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 36 Petrunic Orthodontics, 72 Professional Pediatrics, 12 Pump It Up Party, 65 Rachelle’s Salon & Boutique, 92 Ray Gary Beach Cottage, 78 Riverview Camp, 81 Rolling Video Games of AL, 69 Saint James School, 21 Savannah L. Bowden Photography, 53 Sew Bernina, 27 Shade Tree Riding Academy, 63 Shark Tooth Creek, 86 Smart Smiles, 89 Smiles Galore Parties, 62 Southlawn Childcare Center, 39 Spacewalk of Montgomery, 66 Spacewalker, The, 65 Spotless Cleaning Services, 11 St. Bede Child Development Center, 42 St. Bede Summer Camp, 42 Success Unlimited Academy, 23 Sunny Side Child Care, 21 Sylvan Learning Center, 25 Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital, 55 Taylor Made Gaming, 64 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 36 The Big Green Bus, 93 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover The Waters, 91 Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 93 Tree Theater Company, 28 Trinity Christian Center, 92 Twisted Spur, 20 United Family Services Outreach, 92 United Gymstars & Cheer, LLC, 64 Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 52 Vaughn Urgent Care, 89 www.montgomeryparents.com

People Like Us

Brave

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: BSexual Content: C Language: D Alcohol / Drug Use: D The MPAA has rated People Like Us PG-13 for language, some drug use and brief sexuality.

In a recent post, an advice columnist replied to a young person who discovered his father’s infidelity. She wrote, “This is your parents’ business, not yours…It’s best forgiven and forgotten by you.” I have to disagree. Marital cheating impacts more than the adults involved and if ever there were an argument against being unfaithful, People Like Us is it.

Record producer Jerry Harper may be resting peacefully in his grave, but his life decisions continue to haunt those he left behind. Among the damaged mourners are his wife Lillian (Michelle Pfeiffer) and his estranged son Sam (Chris Pine). Inheriting his father’s extensive record collection seems like poor compensation for the young, fast-talking businessman who grew up with a distracted, distant dad. He was at least hoping for some cold, hard cash to help bail him out of his crushing debt. Instead his dad’s lawyer (Philip Baker Hall) hands Sam a shaving kit filled with wads of $100 bills and a note from his father instructing him to take the money to some kid he’s never heard of.

It turns out Sam has a sister. Frankie (Elizabeth Banks), he discovers, is a struggling single mother with a precocious 11-year-old son named Josh (Michael Hall D’Addario) who just blew up the school’s swimming pool.

Unsure how to introduce himself, Sam avoids that little nugget of truth. But this family’s penchant for lying hasn’t led to anything good in the past, nor will it now.

This adult drama may be one of the first films to explore infidelity from the point of view of the children and isn’t always pretty. Secrets, emotional avoidance and abandonment are the foundations this family is built on.

Moving beyond them is painful and sometimes overplayed with sentiment.

While the characters’ growth is admirable, many of the activities they engage in aren’t. Based loosely on the life experiences of Director Alex Kurtzman (Star Trek, Transformers, Mission Impossible III), this script follows a family whose dysfunctional history seems destined to be repeated unless they chose to leave the past behind.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: B Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA has rated Brave PG for some scary action and rude humor.

From her infancy, Merida (voice by Kelly Macdonald) has been groomed for the role of a royal by her mother, the stately Queen Elinor (voice

by Emma Thompson). But Merida chaffs under the imposed restrictions of etiquette and embroidery skills. She prefers to race through the woods shooting arrows at targets suspended along the path. The clash of ideals between parent and child peaks when Merida discovers she is about to be betrothed to the man who wins an archery competition.

To be fair, the trio vying for her hand is the most unsuitable bunch of suitors ever assembled and only by sheer dumb luck does one of them manage to hit the bull’s eye. However, Merida isn’t about to let a fluke determine her future. Defying her mother’s orders, she fires off an arrow that neatly splices the winning shaft into pieces. The rebellious act results in a war of words that sends Merida fleeing into the woods.

There, in the dark recesses of the forest, she stumbles upon a woodcarving witch (voice by Julie Waters) who supplies her with a potent spell. In moment of impetuosity, Merida uses the magic charm on her mother. (This kind of impulsiveness is what gives redheads a reputation for having hotheaded tempers.) Unfortunately, the consequences for her act are unbearable, but to undo it will take more than a steady aim and sure shot.

With three rowdy little brothers and a rather ineffective father, she and her mother are the powerhouses in this female-centric film. And while the tension in their relationship is one other moms and girls may relate to, the threats aimed at these main characters and the frequent use of weapons may be too intense for younger viewers. As well, the film contains several frightening scenes played out on the big screen in 3D splendor.

Merida may be Pixar’s latest addition to the Disney stable of princesses, but she is far spunkier than the original fairytale royals. She also isn’t waiting around for a Prince Charming to whisk her away. This storyline reflects a far more contemporary take on female independence where women decide not only whom they will marry, but if. While that is a great step forward in Merida’s mind, it doesn’t happen until both this mother and daughter learn the value of listening.

What Parents need to know about People Like Us...

Violence: A woman slaps her adult son. A child steals a chemical and blows up a swimming pool. He is later pushed to the ground and threatened by classmates. A child is expelled after breaking another student’s nose with a textbook. A woman hits a man repeatedly before throwing him out of her apartment. A man has a verbal argument with his girlfriend.

Sexual Content: A woman wears low cut tops and short skirts. She admits to sleeping with many unnamed men and not knowing the identity of her child’s father. A character has casual sex with a neighbor as a way to deal with stress.

A child makes several sexual comments about an older female teen.

Language: The script includes anatomical and crude terms. A strong sexual expletive and crude hand gesture are used by children. Frequent profanities, scatological slang and numerous terms of Deity are heard.

Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters use medicinal marijuana for recreational purposes in several scenes. Characters discuss their additions at a support group meeting. Alcohol use is depicted in numerous scenes. www.montgomeryparents.com 96

What Parents need to know about Brave...

Violence: The frequent use of bows and arrows are shown. A character attacks a bedpost with a sword. A bear threatens a family and is attacked with weapons. A man loses his leg in the battle. During a fistfight, characters bite, pinch, head butt, poke eyes and use objects to hit one another. Characters break out in a brawl, firing arrows and throwing axes at each other. A girl falls through a roof. Characters are threatened and chased by an animal. A bear is shot repeatedly. He is shown with arrows hanging from his back. A character is smashed by a large rock. People engage in swordfights.

Sexual Content: A young character dives into a woman’s bosom to retrieve a key. Animated, male buttock nudity is shown in a non-sexual context. A man raises his kilt and moons his competitors (no nudity is seen).

Language: Some name-calling is included in the script.

Other: Characters are changed by a spell. A woman practices the dark arts.

Montgomery Parents I July 2012

Our treatment approach is effective and affordable. Our mission is to bring hope to our patients and their families and lead them on the path to recovery.

What Are The Signs and Symptoms Of Adolescent Alcohol And Drug Abuse?

• Sudden or Gradual Drop in Grades • Pattern of School Tardiness • Lying/Blaming • Unusual Need to Access Money • Changes in Peer Group • Sneaking Alcohol or Drugs • Burns on Hands or Clothing • Denial when concerns are expressed regarding drinking and drug use • Unusual sleeping patterns

Free 24 hour Emergency Consultations

(334) 244-0702 or 1-800-873-2887 www.bradfordhealth.com

Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y The Pursuit of Excellence

73% of the 56 member Class of 2012 received merit-based scholarships totaling $3.3 million.

Alabama State University Alfred University Auburn University Auburn University Montgomery Baylor University Belmont University Berry College Birmingham -Southern College Boston College Brown University Carnegie Mellon University Case Western Reserve University Clemson University College of Charleston Davidson College Drexel University Eckerd College Faulkner State Community College

Furman University Georgia Institute of Technology High Point University Huntingdon College Ithaca College Kenyon College Louisiana State University Loyola University New Orleans Millsaps College Mississippi State University Northeast Mississippi Community College New York University Ohio University Oxford College of Emory University Pennsylvania State University Radford University Rhodes College

Rollins College Roosevelt University Samford University Savannah College of Art and Design Southern Methodist University Syracuse University Texas A&M University Texas Christian University Trinity College University of Alabama University of Alabama at Birmingham University of Arizona University of California Irvine University of Denver University of Georgia University of Kentucky University of Maryland University of Massachusetts

University of Michigan University of Mississippi University of North Carolina Charlotte University of Rochester University of South Alabama University of South Carolina University of Southern California University of The South: Sewanee University of Texas University of West Florida Virginia Polytechnic & Institute Washington and Lee University Washington University in St. Louis West Virginia University Wofford College

Contact Susannah Cleveland, Director of Admissions susannah_cleveland@montgomeryacademy.org • 334.272.8210 • mon tgomeryacad emy. org Financial Aid Available

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