Montgomery Parents April 2017 by KeepSharing

Help Alabama Shine!

The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) is a joint research project between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Alabama Department of Public Health. Its purpose is to determine why some babies are born healthy and others are not. New mothers are randomly chosen from the state birth registry to participate in PRAMS. Surveys may be returned by mail or completed over the phone. Let your voice be heard! Responses are kept confidential to the extent of the law. For more information please call us at 334-206-2923. 1-800-654-1385, or go to adph.org/prams.

“Happy to be part of this survey.”

“Thank you for checking on us!”

Actual comments from survey responses. ADPH does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender, age, religion, disability, genetic information, and other federal, state, or agency regulations and policies. Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies may be directed to Civil Rights Coordinator: ADPH CRC, RSA Tower, 201 Monroe Street, Suite 1010, Montgomery, AL 36104, Tel. 334-206-5226, or email crcomplaints@adph.state.al.us.

The Complete Education From Pre-K3 through 12th grade, STJ students, faculty, and administration work together to foster the potential of each child at Saint James School. Visit our state-of-the-art campus and you will see first-hand how your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education is enriched through experiential science, art, music, and world language labs.

Admissions Testing at STJ Take advantage of our Saturday testing options for Fall 2017 rising 1st through 12th grade students. Call Laura Hassell at 334.273.2992 for complete testing and registration details. Testing for Grades 1-12 Saturday, May 6 (students must be registered for testing by April 28, 2017)

Saint James School FOR PRE-K3 THROUGH 12TH GRADE ADMISSIONS

334.273.3021

Leading the Way Since 1955 S T J w e b . o r g Ask us about our Financial Assistance Program. English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, color, gender, creed, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

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

SJ01-36961-ParentsApril2017.indd 1

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

3/1/17 8:47 AM

THE ADVENTURES IN

Launch a Rocket

Math & Science

Kayak in Mobile Bay Build a Robot

Solve a Crime

2017 Summer Camp Sessions

Prepare for the ACT

Hosted by the Alabama School of Math and Science June 5-9, June 12-16, & June 19-23

Day & Overnight Camp

Located in Mobile, AL Grades 6-10

S Register Online Early to Save!

Register by April 1: $360 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $260 Day Camp (includes lunch) Register after April 1: $385 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $285 Day Camp (includes lunch) The cost to stay the weekend between Sessions 1 and 2 is an additional $185 (includes trip to water park) Applications, more information, and course descriptions are online at WWW.ASMS.NET . COURSE SAMPLING ACT Prep, Algebra Review, Exploring Inner Space, Marine Biology, CSI: Mobile, Phun Physics, Using Java, Robotics, Field Biology, Psychology, Math Puzzles, Labs of Doom, Rocketry, Origami, Speak Up, Light Metals and Enameling, Apps for Smart Devices, and many more.

1255 Dauphin St. • Mobile, AL 36604 • 251.441.2100 • www.asms.net • aims@asms.net Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

ACCREDITED K4 THROUGH 12TH GRADE

cket

INDEPENDENT COLLEGE-PREPARATORY SCHOOL

bile

night

INVESTING IN A LIFETIME

Shaping Leaders that Change the World If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Director of Admission Jenny McClinton at 334.213.2213 or jmcclinton@trinitywildcats.com Tuition assistance available. Discount offered to military families.

trinitywildcats.com M O N T G O M E R Y, A L A B A M A |

LOWER SCHOOL

334.213.2100

n Trinity graduates have received over $35 million in merit-based scholarships over the last 5 years n The vast majority of Trinity’s AP students score between a 3 and a 5 on their exams, with many students nearly completing their freshman college studies before graduating from Trinity n Trinity’s EnviroBowl Team won the 2016 State Championship—Trinity’s 10th EnviroBowl championship since 2001 n Partnering with a local elementary school, Trinity students serve as “Study Buddies,” as well as provide food to 85 children weekly through “Feeding America’s BackPack Program” n Trinity’s Change 4 Change project has donated over $70,000 in the past three years to charitable organizations in Montgomery and throughout the world Trinity admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origins to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Trinity does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origins in any of the educational policies, scholarship programs and athletics, and other school-administered programs.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

UPPER SCHOOL

ONE CAMPUS

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

P P

Ho m

IF YOU WANT THEM TO DISCOVER THE POWER OF FAITH, HOPE AND LOVE,

weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re here for you.

Sunday Morning Small Groups - 9:15 a.m. Sunday Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m.

Montgomery Parents April 2017 7505 Wares Ferry IRoad Montgomery,

Alabama 36117 334.396.9811

www.montgomeryparents.com easternoaks.org

O Ri sc

ou.

om rg

April2017

Volume 22 Number 4

Columns 6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

Power Down the Parent Pressure

How and why you should stop micro-managing your kids’ goals.

An Insider’s Guide to Choosing Child Care

8 things to consider when deciding where to place your child.

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen

42 Autauga Education Matters

72 68

by Superintendent Spence Agee

48 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis

58 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

64 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

2017 Child Care Guide 10 Survival Tips for Our comprehensive listing of Single Parents River Region daycares, preschools, and MMO programs.

Plan ahead, resolve guilt, make time for yourself, and more ideas.

On The Cover Sadie Lee Myers, age 3, attends preschool at Frazer Memorial Christian Kindergarten and Preschool. Her teacher is Jennifer Williamson. Sadie’s proud parents are Chris and Jene Meyers, and she has a sister, Kylee (9), and a brother, Cason (8). Sadie enjoys gymnastics, soccer, swimming, reading books and playing outside.

76 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

88 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 80 Calendar/Support Groups 92 Movie Reviews

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Editor’sNote Spring break has come and gone for our family, and while Jason and I worked the whole week, Anna got to go on a mission trip with our church and Grace spent the week back at the child care center she attended before moving to “big” school this year. I think I was as excited as she was to see all the familiar faces and hug the necks of teachers who had cared for her from the time she was one until she left for kindergarten. I remember how good it felt during those early years knowing she would be loved and nurtured by a caring staff each day when I left for work. Choosing a daycare is a decision no parent takes lightly. We all want that calming assurance that our child, our most valued treasure, will spend happy days with caring teachers, while having fun and also learning new skills. If we can’t be the ones taking care of them during the daytime hours, we make it our duty to find the place we feel will come in a close second. Whether you are looking for half day care at a mom’s morning out program or need full time daycare for your little one, this month’s issue is for you! Our 2017 Child Care Guide is included and sorted by zip code so you can see what options are available either close to your home or near your office. Pay special attention to our advertising child care centers highlighted throughout the listing, and turn to their ad for more detailed information. Also, check out Rachael Moshman’s article, An Insider’s Guide to Choosing the Right Daycare, for the most important factors to consider when deciding the best fit for your family. Parenting is a long series of transitioning from one phase to another, I have found. While we take the full reigns in the beginning, as I mentioned with choosing child care, we have to continue to loosen them as the years go on and let our kids make more choices. The goal, after all, is for our children to grow up and become their own individuals, with their own likes, dislikes, passions, and dreams. With that in mind, we’ve included Power Down the Parent Pressure, which shares advice on how to stop micromanaging our kids’ goals. We may start the parenting process thinking our kids will grow into miniature versions of us, but we quickly discover how very unique they are. And while it never hurts to nudge them in a direction here or there, allowing them to have more and more input as they grow up is just part of the process of eventually letting go and letting them fly! A few other not-to-miss articles in this month’s issue are 10 Survival Tips for Single Parents, John Rosemond’s What to Do About Nightmares, and Creative Apps for Creative Kids in our Growing Up Online column. Our Family Calender is filling up too, now that spring has arrived, so take advantage of all the fun being offered to your family right here in the River Region! Happy Easter and have a great month!

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Margaret Allen Richard Dennis David Drennan, M.D. Mark Gregston Christa Melnyk Hines Carolyn Jabs Christina Katz Rachael Moshman John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith

Cover Photography Lori Mercer www.lorimercerphotography.com Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Gena Hill Digital Manager Scott Davis Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell

DeAnne

Member

deanne@montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2017 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

www.montgomeryparents.com

urce

n the se, unity. nity ess.

Keep6123. g LLC. written mery cese an

Learning, Growing & Belonging. ACADEMICS ATHLETICS ACHIEVEMENT • • • • • • • • • •

Accelerated Curriculum with High Academic Standards College Prep, Honors and Advanced Placement Classes 100% College Acceptance of Graduates 1:1 Apple iPad Program for Grades K5 - 12 Small Class Sizes Safe Learning Environment NOW ENROLLING FOR Competitive Athletics 2017 - 2018 Affordable Tuition Enrichment in Fine Arts & Foreign Language Student Leadership & Civic Service Opportunities

MACON EAST ACADEMY 15396 Vaughn Road Cecil, Alabama 36013 Telephone: 334.277.6566 Web: maconeast.net l

Leadership scholarship opportunities are available. 7

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

What to Do About Nightmares Q:

Our 5-year-old has suddenly started waking up with nightmares. He’s not able to describe them with any clarity, however, so we don’t know what the content of them is. The most he’s able to tell us is that there are scary people chasing him. He began having them about a month ago and has had maybe twenty since. They usually occur about three hours after we tuck him in. When they start, he begins crying or yelling in his sleep. We wake him up and he calms down fairly quickly. A couple of times he’s asked to come to our bed which we’ve allowed. There have been no recent disruptions in either our family life or his life of late, so we don’t know what’s causing them. Do you think it would be helpful to take him to see a therapist?

A: I don’t recommend it. In the first place, there’s no trustworthy body of evidence that would support the notion

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

that nightmares, as a rule, are indicative of some psychological disturbance—a “repressed” trauma, for example. I used quotation marks because there is significant reason to doubt whether the Freudian concept of repression is even valid. Secondly, there’s a chance that talking to a therapist may make a mountain out of a molehill and either result in a worsening of the nightmares or lead to the development of additional problems. I base that caution not on research but on anecdotal evidence shared with me by lots of parents over the years. The efficacy of talk therapy is dicey with adults; it’s even dicier with children. In some cases, it’s possible to associate the onset of nightmares with a difficult transition or a very upsetting circum-

stance, but even then it’s impossible to be sure that the event in question is the cause. The fact is, almost all children report nightmares at one time or another. More often than not, they stop as mysteriously as they started. The one clue here is your report that the nightmares occur around three hours after you put him to bed. That suggests that they are somehow related to your son’s sleep cycle, but that is nothing more than somewhat educated speculation. In my estimation, you’re doing the right thing, including letting him come into your bed on occasion. I am not an advocate of either attachment parenting or parent-child co-sleeping except in exceptional circumstances, of which this is one. You’re also doing the right thing by waking him up and comforting him. If the nightmares get a lot worse, you might consider taking him to a sleep clinic, but I’d give that decision some time. In other words, for the time being, just keep calm and parent on.

JOIN US FOR

EASTER E

Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions at www.johnrosemond.com and parentguru.com.

www.montgomeryparents.com

E M E GSTR

. i-

T N U GH

ow t d

JOIN US FOR

R EASTER

saint james united methodist church

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Spring Session Depot Days Academy

Shake your hair with us at the Wetumpka Depot this Spring. We will use inspiration from Dreamworks’ Trolls to incorporate the fundamentals of theatre through storytelling, craft activities and music. Enrollment is open to students in 2nd5th grades! Classes will be Tuesdays and Thurdays from 4-5 p.m. starting Tuesday, April 4, and ending with a showcase on Tuesday, May 9. For more info, call (334) 868.1440 or email kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com.

Montgomery Biscuits Bark in the Park/Kids’ Day/Kids Run the Bases

Sundays, April 9, 23 & 30 * 2:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Dogs are welcome with leashes. All dog owners must sign a waiver at the RF Gate entrance. Kids ages 14 and under are invited to run the bases after every Sunday game at Riverwalk Stadium presented by Coca-Cola! Kids can also play catch on the field before the game and create some arts and crafts. For tickets or more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

12th Annual Alabama Book Festival

April 22 * 9 a.m.-5 p.m. This year’s festival features authors Winston Groom (Forrest Gump) and Karren Pell (whom Old Alabama Town fans know as a performer with the Old Alabama Town Revue Crue), among many others. It will be held in downtown Montgomery at Old Alabama Town. The free public event is the state’s premier book festival, with a children’s activity area sure to make it a day of fun for the entire family! For a full list of authors and other details, visit alabamabookfestival.org.

The Art of Baking Puppet Show at MMFA

April 6-7 * Starts at 9:30 and 10:45 a.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Children will learn that “art is everywhere” from charming animals working in a bakery on stage. The characters demonstrate that their particular differences, talents and skills allow them to work together in order to make tasty masterpieces. In the course of the show, children will also identify shapes, primary colors, cool and warm colors, and patterns used in confections and what it takes to become an artist. The show is for three- to- six-year olds. Advance reservations are required (taken on a first-come, first-serve basis). 200 seats per show. Please note: scheduled visits to ARTWORKS Gallery are not available on Puppet Show dates. Call Jill Byrd at (334) 240-4359 for more information.

MPAC Presents

For tickets, visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. Corey Smith April 28 * 8 p.m. Tommy Emmanuel with Christie Lenee May 5 * 8 p.m. The Black Jacket Symphony presents Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours May 6 * 8 p.m.

Taste of the Gardens 2017

Flimp Festival

May 6 * 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Art-related activities and entertainment including a sidewalk chalk art competition and live theatrical and musical performances by Booker T. Washington Magnet High School. Additional student performance every 45 minutes. There will also be interactive demonstrations with Museum Store artists, a scavenger hunt, and concessions. Festivities will kick off with the ever-popular Do-Dah Pet Parade. The event is free for all MMFA members, active-duty military and their immediate families. Tickets can be purchased the day of the event and are $5 for adults and $3 for children. Visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333. Montgomery Parents I April 2017

Southern Homes & Gardens on Vaughn Road, Montgomery. May 11, from 5-8 p.m. The event includes a silent auction featuring works from local artists; tasting from the River Region’s finest restaurants & caterers; wine; and live music. Event tickets are $25, and may be purchased at SH&G, Caffco Outlet or at the American Red Cross, Central Alabama. Tickets also will be available the day of the event. For more info, call (334) 260-4040 or e-mail kelly.hodges@redcross.org. 10

Boston May 7 * 7:30 p.m. Celtic Woman May 12 * 7:30 p.m.

Huey Lewis & the News June 13 * 7:30 p.m. www.montgomeryparents.com

B wil a en c Air th

Ap H h 30 wi a inf b Ju

ate

Maxwell Air Force Base Show and Open House

April 8-9 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the French aerial demonstration team, Patrouille de France, and many other acts fill the skies over the River Region with excitement at the Maxwell Air Force Base Air Show and Open House. The event will feature many Air Force static aircraft, past and present, as we also commemorate the entry of the U.S. into WWI a century ago and celebrate the Air Force’s 70th birthday. The Air Show is FREE and open to the public. For the latest info, visit maxwellairshow.com or call (334) 953-2015.

. n er et 9

all

Clint Black Performs at Stars in the Park!

Grammy Award-winning country music star Clint Black will headline an outdoor concert on the grounds of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival on Saturday, April 8. Gates open at 4 p.m. with music by opening acts Blackbird Pickers, Jason Givens and the Wanderers, Jessie Lynn and Act of Congress. Black will begin performing at 8 p.m. Active duty military are entitled to one FREE ticket with proof of identification through the ASF Box Office. Tickets are $30 in advance and $36 (day of) at the gate. Get tickets and more at asf.net!

Ft. Toulouse/Ft. Jackson French & Indian War Encampment

Prattville Theatre Auditions

Apr. 23 from 2-5 p.m. * Apr. 24 from 7-10 p.m. Hairspray recently wowed TV audiences and has delighted Broadway audiences for years. 30 parts will be cast for ages 16 to 50. Auditions will be held at the Prattville Cultural Arts Center at 203 West 4th Street in Prattville. For more info, visit the Way Off Broadway Theatre Facebook page and look for the event “Hairspray Just Got Real.” Performances will be held July 13-29. For more info, call (334) 595-0854.

Rend Collective in Concert

April 29 * 7 p.m. Frazer’s Atlanta Highway campus. Folk-influenced Irish worship band. Tickets are $22 general admission. For more info or tickets, visit http://frazer.church/event/ rend-collective-in-concert.

April 22-23 * 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Wetumpka. Daily life at a French frontier fort and Creek village in the year 1756. Soldiers engage in mock battles each day and souvenirs replicating items of the time period will be available from merchants on site. Living history demonstrations of military, Indian and civilian life will take place on Saturday and Sunday throughout the day. Admission Charged: $4/adult and $2/child. For more info, call (334) 567-3002.

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

MONO Lisa Lisa is a vivacious 16-year-old student who is active in cheerleading, sports and all honor classes. It is to her dismay that she awoke ill this morning, the first day of semester exams, with the following symptoms: severely painful sore throat, fever, chills, headache, fatigue, and lack of energy. She arrives at her pediatrician’s office and her doctor’s exam is positive for enlarged inflamed tonsils with exudate, swollen tender neck glands, fever of 103F, and pain in the upper left abdomen. She has no energy and wants to go back to bed, which is a definite behavioral change from her normal energetic self. Her clinician orders a rapid strep test which is negative, a backup throat culture which takes 24 hours before the results will be available, and a white blood cell count with differential which is elevated above the normal range. Her parents want an antibiotic prescribed since there are some of her peers with strep throat as well as flu this month. Her doctor suggested ordering a mono spot test on the previous blood sample and will check the throat culture before starting an antibiotic. The mono test is positive and the throat culture the next day is negative. Further school history is obtained which is significant for several members of the football team having the diagnosis of mono over the past two months including her boyfriend. Mononucleosis, (“Kissing Disease”, “Glandular Fever”) is an illness caused by the Epstein-Barr virus (human herpesvirus 4). This virus infects more than three million people in the United States. It is spread by sharing of in-

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

fected saliva thru kissing or drinking or eating after someone who is infected. Four to six weeks after exposure, the symptoms as described in Mono Lisa’s history become apparent. Though the worst symptoms usually occur between the ages 15-24yrs, young children may have only fever as a symptom. 95%of all adults have been infected by the virus but not everyone infected has symptoms. The most common symptoms and physical signs are as follows: 1) Sore throat with exudative tonsillitis (extremely red throat with pus on enlarged tonsils which may interfere with swallowing and breathing); 2) Swollen lymph nodes in the neck and all over the body; 3) Enlarged spleen; 4) Liver Inflammation (hepatitis from the Epstein- Bar virus); Systemic symptoms (headache, fever, chills, body aches, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, extreme fatigue). The laboratory work up of a patient suspected of having mono will always include a mono spot test with sometimes a complete blood count and rapid strep/throat culture to exclude group A beta hemolytic strep. Sometimes the mono spot test is negative and there still may be concern about the Epstein-Bar virus as an etiology of the throat infection. Usually in these cases an Epstein-Barr antibody titer is drawn to clarify the diagnosis. This test will not only detect a recent infection, but also determine if there has been exposure with this virus in the past. The treatment of mononucleosis is mainly supportive since there are no antiviral drugs currently approved for Epstein-Bar infection in a

normal host. No antibiotics are indicated since this is a viral infection and antibiotics do not kill viruses. In fact sometimes a patient who has this viral infection may be placed on an antibiotic and will develop an itchy red rash all over his body. This rash is unique to having an EpsteinBarr infection combined with giving Amoxicillin. When the antibiotic is discontinued the rash disappears. The patient does not have a penicillin allergy. Rest and good hydration along with acetaminophen or ibuprofen for fever and body aches is indicated. Sometimes a corticosteroid may be prescribed in an effort to shrink the tonsils and possible enlarged spleen. No contact sports or heavy lifting should be done for several weeks after being diagnosed. Sometimes there may be an enlarged spleen which could rupture while playing contact sports. Since there is extreme fatigue associated with this infection, returning to school should only involve the essential courses without extracurricular activities. Plenty of time should be devoted to rest and quality of sleep. Most of these patients resolve these symptoms within two months. If symptoms persist beyond this time consult your physician. Dr. Drennen earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 1975 and is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He began his private practice of pediatric medicine in Loveland, Colorado. He then practiced in Ozark, Alabama before coming to Professional Pediatrics in 1998. He and his wife Rebecca have two sons. The entire family enjoys downhill skiing and beach activities.

www.montgomeryparents.com

e ll his

nn.

cilh dy d nt

s d ere n,

e ms n.

y the ce

l s. es.

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Connecting: Special Olympics We are all connected. Individuals in our society who have tried to make it through life alone have proven that it is impossible. We need each other. Each of us is either knowledgeable or skilled at something that the rest of us are not. We are free to make the choice to do things to make life better for each other. The bottom line is together we thrive! There are some among us who need a little extra support… beyond the norm. Every year, Montgomery Public Schools and members of the community come together in a connection to help students with disabilities participate in activities that may seem humble to most of us – running, walking, throwing a ball, etc.

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

Every year we joyfully provide those activities during our system’s Special Olympics. Special Olympics began with Eunice Kennedy Shriver starting a day camp for children with intellectual disabilities. She revealed that her sister (also the sister of President John F. Kennedy) was born with intellectual disabilities. The first International Special Olympics was held in 1968 in Chicago. Today, more than 5.3 million athletes in nearly 170 countries participate. In Montgomery more than 100 students participate in a local event each year. The March event brings students from dozens of schools together to run, jump, throw, and laugh. These students and the adults who support them enjoy a “great” time; they make connections! Volunteers from around the community, including participants from law enforcement, firefighters, military, and a variety of community groups come to help as “coaches”. They encourage, cheer and hug. They find themselves caught up in the excitement and joy alongside the students.

In our society there are always winners and losers. But when we get together to support our students in the Special Olympics event, we all win. Every student gets recognition for not allowing a disability to get in the way of their participation. Some of the most expressive and genuine smiles I have ever seen are on the faces of people during a Special Olympics event – children and coaches. The students win, but so do the adults cheering them on. Events like the Special Olympics help bridge the gaps between us. It helps us to better understand the children and their challenges, but it also helps those of us who are involved see how much all of us need each other. Not just the disabled needing the able, but all of us needing each other. We are all connected. Allen began working for Montgomery Public Schools as a special education teacher in 1976. She holds administrative certification from Alabama State University, a masters of arts in early childhood, a masters of arts in early childhood/handicapped, and a bachelor’s of science in elementary education and special education – all from Auburn University Montgomery.

www.montgomeryparents.com

hl nt iln. ne s nt in,

of f d

sa rasly n m

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Montgomery County Schools

Trinity Kindergartners Collaborate

STJ Junior Named Youth Governor for 2018

Saint James School sent an energized delegation of students to participate in the 69th YMCA State Youth Legislature that convened in February. The session was highlighted by the election of Saint James junior Claudia Hubbard as the Alabama Youth Governor for 2018. During the weekend sessions, Hubbard served as the Senate Pro Temp, had a bill pass and signed into law by the current Youth Governor, and was selected as a delegate for the Conference On National Affairs to be held this summer in North Carolina. Fellow STJ junior Katie McIntyre served as First Year Presiding Officer and was also selected as a delegate for the Conference On National Affairs. Senior Harrison Carter served as this year’s Secretary of State and was awarded the Servant Leadership Award presented to a student who has served their community regardless of recognition. Working beside Carter was STJ senior Mackenzie Montiel, who served as Assistant Secretary of State. Senior T Diebel served on the Governor’s Cabinet as Director of Law Enforcement and senior Atchison Hubbard served on the Governor’s Cabinet as Military Director. Joe Higgins, a STJ freshman, served as Assistant Clerk of First Year and his bill was passed and signed into law by the Youth Governor. STJ junior Abigail Engles served as Clerk of the House and junior Hanah Mathis Ray served as Assistant Clerk of the House. STJ senior Anna Claire Bullard and sophomore Trinity Hunter served on the media staff and Hunter received the Media Award for her work on the staff. STJ seniors Hubbard, Bullard, Montiel, Carter and Diebel received honor cords for their years of participation in State Youth in Government. Serving on the College Staff was Saint James alumni and University of Alabama student Haley White. STJ Youth Legislature Club Sponsors, from left, Kiki Hughes, Cindy Somerville and Kay McGaughey are photographed with STJ junior Claudia Hubbard.

Fridays are now known as “Fabulous Friday Writing Workshop” days for the kindergartners at Trinity Presbyterian School. The students thoroughly enjoy using their iPads to record each other reading the stories they have written. You can see the ownership of learning and the pride in their work as they share and communicate with each other. One student was overheard saying, “Wow, I’ve never been an author before!”

Bethany Students Participate in School Choice

Bethany Christian Academy students took part in the school choice rally held by the city of Montgomery. Students on honor roll were representatives of the school for this event. During the week long celebration, the BCA students and staff hosted a rally of their own where new students Mia Rose,Tyler Bell, Elijah Jones and parent Mrs. Rose spoke about their right to choose Bethany Christian Academy as their school. Students also passed out brown bag breakfasts to cars driving by their school to share the message about school choice. Breakfasts were packed by Student Government President Lyneria DeRamus. The next week the Student Government received a thank-you card from one of the drivers who was given a breakfast on the way to their doctor’s office.

Montgomery Academy Chorus Students Selected for All-State Festival

Montgomery Academy chorus students were selected to participate in the 2017 Alabama AllState Choral Festival. Their achievement is one of the highest honors afforded to choral music students in our state. In order to be selected, students must perform six pieces in front of an adjudicator. They receive points on tone quality, diction, and intonation. Middle School students selected were William Thayer, Alisha Singh, Sadie Sease and Zoe Zink. Upper School students selected were Annie Ramsey, Jack Wagstaff and Roma Pirnie. Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

s he n oy er n. ng

sic

nts

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Montgomery County Schools

Bear Students Design and Glaze Ceramic Bowls for Food Bank Fundraiser

National Elementary Honor Society students from Bear Exploration Center designed and glazed ceramic bowls as a fundraiser for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Mrs. Papastefan and Mr. Deem from the Food Bank spoke about the people they help. The students then presented the MAFB with $400 to help feed the hungry in our area.

Re Ch to com sch cat In wo com

ACA Bass Fishing Team Wins Big The Alabama Christian Academy fishing team placed third overall in the ASABFA Lake Martin Tournament. Jack Martin and Elliot Torode finished seventh out of 175 boats in total weight. The ACA Bass Fishing Team also competed at Lake Neely Henry in Gadsden, on March 25.

Send Your School News to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.

gra ing Co ate cre sen

Fig tea â&#x20AC;&#x153;Th on Eq sym of fou Un aro wo Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

ECA Students Place in District Science Fair

Recently, the first-place winners of Evangel Christian Academy’s Science Fair advanced to compete at the district level. The students competed against winners from all of the schools in AISA’s District V. In the junior high category, Arange Clemons won third place. In the high school division, James Paterson won first place. Both students advanced to compete at the state level.

SUA Kingdom Builders

Success Unlimited Academy’s eighthgrade history students have done outstanding work as “Kingdom Builders.” Students in Coach Granger’s classes designed and created their individual kingdoms that included a crest with four symbols. The symbols represented their kingdom’s core values. First period became the Freedom Fighters, with values of leadership, freedom, teamwork and love. Second period became “The Holy Warriors” and based their values on faith, success, strength and loyalty. The Equalizers, third-period students, selected symbols that represented their core values of respect, peace, strength and equality. The fourth and final kingdom was known as The United Cavaliers. They built their kingdom around the values of bravery, honor, teamwork and leadership. 19

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Academy Track & Field Hosts Food Drive at Meet The Montgomery Academy hosted the Race to Fight Hunger Food Drive & Track Meet in March and collected 2,172 pounds of food for the Montgomery Area Food Bank.

Mo Ga ea Ch Ac La

Broadway At Forest Avenue

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

On March 14, Forest Avenue Academic Magnet School’s second-grade students and teachers presented “Broadway Revue,” a highly anticipated annual event featuring music and dance performances to classic Broadway hits. Students opened the show with a spirited musical rendition of “There’s No Business Like Show Business,” followed by presentations of other popular songs, including “Phantom of the Opera,” “It’s a Hard-Knock Life,” “Greased Lightning,” “The Lion Sleeps Tonight,” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious.” The audience responded with a rousing standing ovation at the end. The show was directed by Beth Crittenden, LeAnna Brothers, Elizabeth Hardin, Cheryl Kirkland, Carol Roberts and Katie Weaver – all second grade teachers. The music was provided by pianist Bob Crittenden.

Sc ba pe alu Th sev Sc Gir Sta eve

so in “Th to me an ou

og of ou Tri Tri ne co co of ity; Le So for Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

Hooper Students Volunteer at Rodeo

Montgomery County Junior Cattlemen met at Garrett Coliseum to volunteer at the Southeastern Live Expo Miracle Rodeo benefiting Children’s Hospital of Alabama. Hooper Academy students Ashbee, Chase and Landon were among the volunteers!

nu-

–

Trinity Inducts 2017 Class Hall of Fame

The 2017 Class of the Trinity Presbyterian School Hall of Fame was inducted during a banquet held at Trinity Church More than 250 people attended, including numerous Trinity alumni, and family and friends of the inductees. They all enjoyed a delicious meal and heard several stories about the history of Trinity School. Several members of Trinity’s 1987-88 Girls’ Varsity Basketball Team and the 1994 State Champion Volleyball Team attended the event and were also recognized at the banquet. “Many wonderful people have been associated with Trinity School since its founding in 1970,” said Head of School Kerry Palmer. “The Hall of Fame gives us an opportunity to pay homage to some of our best board members, school heads, teachers, coaches and alumni. Through this endeavor, we honor our past and inspire a new generation.” Trinity’s Hall of Fame was created to recognize and appropriately honor achievements of individuals or groups who have made outstanding contributions to the programs of Trinity School. Alumni, faculty and friends of Trinity nominated several candidates for the newly formed Hall of Fame. After prayerful consideration, the Hall of Fame nominating committee elected the 2017 class, comprised of Richard and June Cyrus, Friends of Trinity; Dana Ward Schrimsher, former faculty; Lena Skipworth, former faculty; Carol Sorrells, former faculty; and Brian Willett, former Head of School. 21

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Montgomery County Schools

Success Unlimited Academy Honors Seniors at Last Home Game

Success Unlimited Academy Mustang Athletics honored its senior athletes on February 7 at their last home basketball game against hometown rival Ezekiel Academy. Seniors and their parents were presented before a crowd of SUA fans prior to the Varsity Boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; game. Seniors honored include: Marion Carney, JaKobie Davis, Brandon Gourdine, Pedro Grant, Ray J Hall, Brandon Maddox, Trevon Venter and cheerleader Tiffany Zaremba.

H E

Bethany Students Learn Engineering

Students in the 5th- through 8th-grade class at Bethany Christian Academy took part in engineering week. Students learned about force and motion as they built ramps to measure the distance of objects that rolled down their ramp. Taught by their teacher Ms. Carrington, the students take part in the hands-on activities in their Science Lab.

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

Ho stu cifi an for tion act up sca Th mu to the for da

Co 4th spl Co AU stu to Wa pla we stu Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

Holy Cross Third Grade Explores Satellite Imagery

Holy Cross Episcopal School’s third-grade students are learning about geography—specifically, how we get the images to make maps and globes to display the regions and land forms of the Earth. Upon thorough investigation, they discovered that satellites in space actually provide specific measurements with up-to-the-minute accurate data that detail and scan physical features on the Earth’s surface. The students discovered that satellites communicate by using radio waves to send signals to the antennas on the Earth. The antennas then capture the signals and process the information coming from those signals including data and the pictures they receive.

Cornerstone Student’s Artwork Chosen for Water Festival Shirts

Churchill Academy Students Have Talent!

The 2017 Churchill Academy Talent Shows featured the musical stylings of students along with karate demonstrations, dancing, spoken word, and more. Matthew Dickinson is shown demonstrating karate, while Thomas Rutherford plays the violin

Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s 4th-grade students had fun splishing and splashing the day away at the Montgomery County Water Festival held on the campus of AUM. The most exciting part of this event for student Caroline Lynn was being honored to win the art contest in conjunction with the Water Festival. Her winning artwork was placed on the T-shirts for this event, which were distributed to thousands of 4th-grade students throughout the tri-county area. 23

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

an Ala pla

Montgomery County Schools

MA Debate Students Qualify for National Tournament

Montgomery Academy recently hosted the national qualifying speech & debate tournament. Schools from all over the state competed for slots at the National Speech & Debate Tournament to be held this summer in Birmingham! Catherine Updegraff, above, qualified in Program Oral Interpretation and Max Zink and James Chambers, below, qualified in Duo Interpretation. They will join James Torbert, Ellen Park and John Koo, who have already qualified in Congressional Debate.

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

Floyd Spanish Class Visited by Hispanic Police Officers

Floyd Middle Magnet students from Sra. Henleyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class (Spanish 1) had the opportunity to attend a presentation made by Officer Rodriquez and Officer Tea from the Montgomery Police Department. Both officers are of Spanish descent. The guest speakers shared valuable information on the importance of learning another language on the job as well as insights of the Spanish language and culture. The students were able to engage in basic conversations, ask questions and obtain information in the target language. This is evidence of students participating in multilingual communities outside of the school setting preparing them to be college and career ready. Students become lifelong learners when they put into practice what they learn in the classroom.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Giv ter 2n Po Po 1st so Co 7-9

a t. g

ts g

Eastwood Artists Submit Work to Annual Show

Nearly 100 entries were submitted by Eastwood Christian School students in both lower and upper school for their annual art show. First- and second-place pieces will advance to the Alabama Independent School Association district competition in April. The list of artists who placed according to each category and broken down by age are as follows: Water base: K-1, Grady Coppock-2nd place; 2-3, Porter Johnson-1st place and Lily Givens-2nd place; 4-6, William Givens-1st place; 7-9, Merritt Lee-1st place; and 10-12, Winter Thorington-1st place. Painting: K-1, Grady Coppock-1st place; 2-3, Hope Birchfield-1st, 2nd and 3rd places; 4-6, Paige Sawyer-2nd place; 7-9, Meritt Lee-1st place; and 10-12, Erin Powe-2nd place. Drawing/Color: K-1, Edward Pearson-2nd place; 2-3, Jake Duggar-1st place; Porter Johnson-2nd place and Milla Kay Pearson-3rd place; and 10-12, Winter Thorington1st place. Drawing/Non-Color: 2-3, Hope Birchfield-2nd and 3rd places; 7-9, Claude Newsome-1st place; and 10-12, McKenzie Higginbotham-2nd place and Joy Gulley-3rd place. Collage/Mixed Media: K-1, Grady Coppock-1st place; Albert Christensen-2nd and 3rd places; 7-9, Lani Moore-1st place; and 10-12, Wiktor Poznachowski-1st, 2nd, and 3rd places.

ACA Jumps Ropes for American Heart Association Each year Alabama Christian Academy students K4-6th grade participate in the American Heart Association’s “Jump Rope for Heart.” This year 100% of ACA elementary students participated. Every elementary class raised more than $1,000 for the American Heart Association, with the top class being Mrs. Hatcher’s 4th-graders, raising $3,378.37. The top money raiser, 4th-grader Logan Reynolds, raised $1,141 for the AHA. In total, ACA students raised $24,500.

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Montgomery County Schools

es the

Pike Road Kindergartners Visit Town Council

squ Hu Mid the 20 cha at Sc Th spo Ala las As

On February 13, the Pike Road Town Council meeting had several special guests. Pike Road Schools Communication Director Kadie Crowell had help presenting from Jeannie Allenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CK students. The students expressed their appreciation for the Council and shared lip balm they made after learning about bees and branding. They thanked Councilman Dunn for his service in teaching PRS students about honeybees.

Cornerstone Takes Trip to Virginia

The 6th-grade class of Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy was thrilled to take a field trip to Virginia recently. The students were able to visit many sites, including Jamestown settlement, Thomas Jeffersonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Monticello, historic Williamsburg, the Chesapeake Bay Bridge and Virginia Beach. Special thanks to teacher Mona Robinson.

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

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

me tain An Sa Sh Ya sho of eve

sho

as e

Baldwin Middle Scholar’s Bowl Team State Championship

Baldwin Arts and Academics Middle Magnet’s Scholar’s Bowl Team didn’t waste any time establishing itself among the state’s academic elite. In each of its first two years of existence, the team finished in the top 10 in the Alabama Scholastic Challenge for middle schools. Now in its third year, it has reached the top of the heap. The Baldwin squad defeated Huntsville’s Liberty Middle School in the finals of the 2016-17 state championship at Hoover High School in February. The tournament is sponsored by the Alabama Scholastic Competition Association. The team members -- Captain Jenny Baek, Ani Harishankar, Saad Khan, Adela Sheng and Chris Yang -- have shown a high level of dedication. They come to school early, stay late and even meet on their own for two hours every Saturday morning at a local coffee shop. The Baldwin team will compete in the national contest May 13 in Dallas. Members are shown with their coach, Heath Baxter.

Success Unlimited Juniors Present Civil War Projects

Students in Mrs. Wilson’s 11th-grade U.S. History class at Success Unlimited Academy recently presented group projects after their study of the Civil War. Research began with reading, discussing and working collaboratively to present their final work. Oral presentations were then given to the class on their findings. “Working together in groups encourages dialogue and communication skills among their peers,” Mrs. Wilson said. “Making history come alive through their eyes enhances their knowledge of days gone by.”

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

titio

Ind Inf Sc Div Au Mc pic

Town Council Recognizes Pike Road Teen

Trey Gaines, at right with Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone, was recognized at a recent Town Council meeting for his achievements and contributions to the Pike Road community. Gaines earned his Eagle Scout rank on February 28, after the completion of 28 merit badges and a community project of his choice. For his Eagle project, Gaines raised more than $3,000 to complete a half-mile walking track at St. James United Methodist Church. The track gives community members the opportunity to exercise or enjoy solitude and reflection.

SUA Art Lesson

Success Unlimited Academy’s third-grade class learned about the artist Paul Klee recently. They took inspiration from his piece titled Senecio. Art teacher Heather Parrish taught the students about mixing colors and using the medium of watercolor. The students made their own interpretation of Klee’s work through their own creativity. “Art does not reproduce the visible; rather, it makes visible,” said Paul Klee. Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

Hooper Comptes in ACE Competition

Hooper Academy students competed in the annual ACE Competition March 10 on the campus of Wallace Community College Selma. ACE winners were, from left: Madeline Maxwell, 3rd place Individual English Grammar; Hope Corley, 3rd Place Individual Information Technology; Parker Alwan, 2nd Place Group Natural Sciences Division 1; Sam Sasser, 2nd Place Group Natural Sciences Division 1; Wilson Ellis, 2nd Place Group Social Studies Division 2; Austin Hanover, 2nd Place Group Social Studies Division 2; Parker McCracken, 2nd Place Group Social Studies Division 2; and (not pictured) Apurv Adia, 2nd Place Group Natural Sciences Division 1.

Eastern Hills Celebrates Seuss

Eastern Hills Childcare celebrated Read Across America with Dr. Seuss Week Feb.28-March 3. Each day was designated with a fun activity. Monday was crazy socks day, Tuesday was wear green, Wednesday was wear a favorite hat and we ended the week with a pajama day. Each day the children read Dr. Seuss books that correlated with each dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activity.

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

s d

t ers e

e h d nts k

PHYSICIANS TO CHILDREN

welcomes

DR. KAREN DOLES Now accepting new patients ages newborn to 18 years

PH Y S IC IAN S TO C H ILDR E N Taylor Medical Complex 470 Taylor Rd, Suite 210 Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 293-5033

PHYSICIANS TO CHILDREN ChildrensAL.org/physicianstochildren

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Academy Upper School Engineering Students Remodel Technology Center

en tan be cas (“E

After two weeks of hard work, planning, designing, painting and constructing, the Advanced Engineering class at Montgomery Academy has fully remodeled the hallway to reflect the purpose of the Caddell Technology Center. On display is a large hologram designed and built by students, various hanging projects and 3D printer objects students have accomplished as well as a wall of pictures of the class throughout the year. “What’s great about this design thinking project is that it was 99% student accomplished,” said Jason St. Amand, Upper School technology teacher. “It is imperfect, but it is theirs and has room for improvements, additions and changes as more projects and classes come through the Caddell Technology Center.”

he pla

ka con the

Wind Creek Donation Helps Churchill

Wind Creek Montgomery visited Churchill Academy as honored guests on March 3, presenting the school with a $3,000 donation. The funds allow Churchill Academy to give their new service dog, Tyson, a forever home at the school. Churchill Academy thanks Wind Creek Montgomery for its support. Tyson is already a favorite among students, parents and teachers! Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

he d ts s

nd g

Holy Cross ‘American Ideals’

Holy Cross Episcopal School’s 4th-grade class recently performed its Spring Musical entitled “American Ideal,” which is a children’s musical about humility featuring four contestants that have made it to the finals of an “American Idol-like” national reality show and perform before a team of opinionated judges on live television. The broadcast opens as the entire cast sings the “American Ideal Theme” featuring Sanai Burton (“Anita Ward”), Olivia Smith (“Emma Tate”), Nancy Addy (“Willa Wynn”), and Steadman Meadows (“Neil Downe”). After each contestant sings, the enthusiastic producer Gabe Krause holds up a variety of applause signs and oversees the commercial breaks and technical aspects of the broadcast. Andrew Peavy (“Ryan D. Best”) plays the nationally popular very famous host who keeps the pace of the program moving as he offers encouragement and comments between performances and interacts with the judges, played by Stott Blancas, Ava Stuart and James Marshall. A special thank you to music teacher Beverly Fain, fourth-grade teacher Nancy Stankard and a very special thank you to Adam Stuart, father of Aiden and Cullen Stuart, who constructed a large American Idol-like sign with working lights surrounding the logo that was the custom- made backdrop for the performance.

2600 Bell Road Montgomery, Alabama 334.277.6690

CCCA Kindergartners Study China The Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy kindergarten students learned about China through their reading of The Story About Ping by Marjorie Flack. They were also treated to some delicious Chinese cuisine and received a visit from special guest Mike Kessler. Mr. Kessler, a CCCA teacher, served as a missionary in China and shared with the students the joys and challenges of serving and sharing the Gospel in foreign countries.

460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville, Alabama 334.358.6411

Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen 31

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

M Montgomery County Schools

20 du Ho

Churchill Academy Hosts Valentine’s Dance

Churchill Academy’s high school students hosted their Valentine’s Dance in February, inviting the upcoming freshman class to attend as their guests. Teneal Foster, Tyreke Carter, Brittney Stiff and John Mayo are all shown.

his Ma Mo coa the

his 17 nin Se

Holy Cross Geometry

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

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

Holy Cross Episcopal School students are exploring a new concept in geometry called tessellation. It is a study of how shapes, known as tiles, can be arranged to fill a plane without gaps. Connie MacDonald is guiding the students on a study of congruence and symmetry and the students are using pattern blocks to illustrate how the two concepts relate to tessellation using only three shapes: the equilateral triangle, square and hexagon. The students enjoyed working together to place all the tiles in two dimensions to create a figure that they named “Zion Seven.”

www.montgomeryparents.com

ne g

es: n.

Montgomery Academy Coach Inducted Into AHSAA Hall of Fame

David Bethea is one of 12 individuals who was inducted into the 2017 Class of the Alabama High School Sports Hall of Fame. The induction banquet was held March 20 at the Montgomery Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center. Bethea is a graduate of Butler High School in Huntsville, earned his college degree at the University of North Alabama and received his Masters from the University of South Alabama. Joining the faculty of Montgomery Academy in 1979, he has spent his entire teaching and coaching career at the school where he serves as the Head Coach of the Varsity Boys’ Tennis team and the Middle School Football team. His Middle School Football coaching record (191-83-3) includes 19 city championships. In his 35th season as the head coach of the Varsity Boys Tennis team, he has compiled an 878175 dual match record through the 2016 season. That total included 14 state championships, nine runners-up and 32 Section Championships. He was also named the 2014 NFHS South Section Tennis Coach of the Year.

Trinity Art Students Place in Visual Arts Program

Trinity Presbyterian Middle School art students made an impressive showing in the Visual Arts Achievement Program. Bentley Moore won 2nd place in the Middle School Painting division and Francie Weissand placed 3rd in the Middle School Mixed Media division. The Visual Arts Achievement Program provides local and state recognition for student achievement in the visual arts. The program is designed to offer encouragement to young artists, showcase their work and offer opportunities for advanced training beyond high school.

Math Takes Shape at Success Unlimited

Math is taking shape in Ms. Batiste’s kindergarten class at the lower campus at Success Unlimited Academy. Students are learning how to add and subtract. Using vocabulary terms such as sum and difference, students are able to know the difference between addition and subtraction. Students are also working with manipulatives that help to show concrete answers. “One of their favorite activities is a culmination game called “Look, Find, Show, “ said Ms. Batiste. “They are having a blast with math!”

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Montgomery County Schools

Catholic’s Van Alst Wraps Up Wrestling Career

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School senior Zachary Van Alst claimed his sixth consecutive Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA) wrestling state championship February 18 at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville, this year capturing the title in the Class 1A-5A, 138-pound weight class. Van Alst finished the 2017 season undefeated with an impressive record of 67-0, and finished his career as a Catholic Knight with a record of 300-12. To top it off, Van Alst became the third person in AHSAA history to accomplish six consecutive State wrestling titles. In his six-year career at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School, Van Alst has won five sectional titles to go along with his six state championships, while recording that impressive overall career record of 300-12 . He was joined in Huntsville by teammates Jack Burt and Jason Flowers, both freshmen. Burt made his second appearance at a State meet at 132 pounds and Flowers made his State Tournament debut at 106 pounds. The Knights are coached by head coach Coy Hunter and assistant coach David Parker. Zachary is the son of Jennifer and Bob Van Alst of Prattville. He has committed to wrestle for the Air Force Academy continuing his career at the next level.

Cornerstone Class Visits Wells Printing Company

Wells Printing Company was the destination of choice for the 5th-grade class at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy. The students were treated to a behind-thescenes tour of the printing company, which coincides with their study of the Reformation time period and the role that Johannes Gutenberg’s printing press played during that period. The students were greeted like royalty upon their arrival with a banner displaying all their names. A tremendous thank you to Irvin Wells and his whole team at Wells Printing Company!

AC sis of Th com gir tha Dis inv mie gir the Me tra tric

Chapel • Ar t • Music • Spanish • STEM • Librar y • Spor ts Theatre • 21 st Centur y Computing • Accelerated Reader

H�� Cros� ha� i� ��!

K4 - 6 GRADE TH

NOW ENROLLING! CALL US TODAY! ESL AVAILABLE | ESL 강좌 개설 Active duty military, first responder, and multiple child discount. We accept the Alabama Opportunity Scholarship and Scholarships for Kids. Ask us about financial aid opportunities.

4400 Bell Road | Montgomery, AL 36116 | 334-395-8222 | holycrossmontgomery.org

Holy Cross Episcopal School is accredited by AdvancED (formerly SACS) and the Southern Association of Independent Schools We are a proud member of the National Association of Episcopal Schools

HOLY CROSS ADMITS STUDENTS OF ANY RACE, RELIGION, AND NATIONAL OR ETHNIC ORIGIN. Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

Me wa an Giv plo cer ma Hil by Ko ter po bo org for ing Ha tow po

libr Mu Ha old cau this Ch the

ng m

ACA Students Win Disney Contest

ACA third-grader Rylie Cooper and her sister Laynie were selected as the winners of Disney Records ”Sing the Hook Contest.” The girls’ winning entry was “You’re Welcome” from the Disney movie Moana. The girls won an all-inclusive trip to Los Angeles that included a private guided tour of the Walt Disney Studios, a trip to Disneyland, and an invitation to attend the red carpet world premiere of Beauty and the Beast. It was also the girls’ first airplane ride! This trip was fun for the entire family, as they are big Disney fans. Meredith Cooper, their mother, is a Disney travel agent and author of a Disney tips and tricks blog mouseandmonorail.com.

Eastwood Performs The Music Man

Eastwood Christian School performed Meredith Willson’s The Music Man, which was directed by David Miller and David and Ruth Givens. The plot concerns con man Harold Hill, played by Mikey Kometer, who poses as a boys’ band organizer and sells band instruments and uniforms to the naive Iowa townspeople, promising to train the members of the new band. But Harold is not a musician and plans to leave town without giving any music lessons and pocketing the cash. As events of the story unfold, the town librarian and music teacher, Marian, played by Murray Babington, begins to fall in love with Harold despite seeing through his charade. Harold begins to fall in love as well and risks getting caught to win Marian’s heart. Eastwood chose this musical because of the parallel with how Christ’s love changes people by His sacrifice on the cross for us. 35

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Montgomery County Schools

Catholic Competes in UAH Science Olympiad

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s High School campus Science Olympiad team competed in the University of Alabama at Huntsville March 4. The team brought home five top three awards including: 1st Place Material Science, Michael Barber and Emily Talbot; 2nd Place Optics, James Avery and Henry Petters; 3rd Place Remote Sensing, Michael Barber and Henry Petters; 3rd Place Hover Craft, Chris DeJesus; and finally 2nd Place Robot Arm, Adam Bristol and Michael Barber. Science and math teachers Elizabeth Harbin, Jeanene Crenshaw, Joe Profio and Monica Hamell coached and assisted the team. While visiting the Huntsville Space Center, the students also met space engineer Charlie Johnson, who designed the hydraulics on the Saturn V. Below left, MCPS Science Olympiad sponsor Dr. Joe Profio, MCPS junior Luke Craig and space engineer Charlie Johnson. Below right, 1st Place Material Science, Michael Barber and Emily Talbot.

Th So be inc Ne Cla Ha Na Em Ste Cla

Trinity’s Production of High School Musical ‘Bops to the Top!’

Trinity Presbyterian School’s production of High School Musical “bopped to the top” with sell-out performances on all three nights! More than 125 students participated in this year’s annual spring musical, which marked Trinity’s 25th production—all under the direction of Mala Kelley. The cast of High School Musical was one of the largest ever! More than 75% of the senior class, 60% of the junior class, and 35% of the sophomore class composed the cast and crew. Thirty-one students worked with Becky Miller and Robert Chandler in the Set Design and Construction class over the last seven months creating the sets for the grand musical. Trinity’s annual musical is a unique opportunity for students. Any 10th-12th grader can be in the play and it is completely student-run—from the set design, lights, sound, props, makeup, and choreography. The majority of all the cast and crew are also members of various varsity athletic teams, band, cheer team, dance team, science olympiad, youth judicial, and youth legislature participants. They all found time to balance many practices, games and matches, while rehearsing lines, learning dances, and preparing set changes for the play. At the conclusion of the final night’s performance, the Linda Shands Award for “Excellence in Drama” was awarded to Sam Nunn. This award is named in memory of sixth-grade teacher, Linda Shands, and is voted on by cast and crew for a three-year senior participant who reflects the same spirit, encouragement and enthusiasm for performance Mrs. Shands shared with all who knew her.

sho the it to pa Fre Ye rec Bil

Yo for an Ch pro

Ch ch Bu Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

m p

er m, e

ACA Inducts New Members in NJHS

The Alabama Christian Academy chapter of the National Junior Honor Society recently inducted 23 new members. Qualifications of membership are based on the five pillars of National Junior Honor Society including: scholarship, service, leadership, character, and citizenship. New members include: Riley Barrow, Skylar Crew, Blair Davis, Claire Forrester, Matthew Glass, Mitchell Hagan, Jona Harrison, Hayden Holladay, Carson Horn, Miller McCarthy, Bronwen McNaughton, McLeod Missildine, J.T. Moorer, Wynter Prempramot, Emily Kate Sansom, Trey Schlemmer, Cayla Schofield, Lynleigh Stephen, Connor Strowbridge, Jack Thomas, McKenzie Turner, Clay Williams and Jordan Wilson.

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

d n

be up,

in da me er.

Catholic Participates in Youth Legislature

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School had a very successful showing at the YMCA Youth Legislature Conference this year. Held at the Alabama State House in February, most of the MCPS bills made it to the bill calendar, five were debated on the floor, and four were passed in chamber, including a bill that went to the Supreme Court. Freshmen Jack Burt and Michael Russo were recognized as First Year Outstanding Delegates, while senior Cheyenne Hayes had a bill recognized with an Honorable Mention in the category of Best Senate Bill, one of just three bills recognized from more than sixty. Catholic senior James Sadie was invited to attend the YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs this summer in North Carolina for the second consecutive year, and Jack Burt was selected as an alternate. Additionally, seniors Nate Smith, James Sadie and Cheyenne Hayes received Honor Cords for their participation in the program throughout high school. Youth Legislature team from left: Nate Smith, Christian Friday, Cheyenne Hayes, Austin Collett, Anna Sadie, Nicholas Brown, Michael Russo, Patrick Flores, Michael Hodges, James Sadie and Jack Burt. The team is sponsored by Stefanie Nelson and Trip Hubbard. 37

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

de ou spe Fo So

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

Evangel Christian Academy Evangel Christian Academy exists to partner with Christian parents to provide their child with a Christ-centered education. Our desire is to help each child achieve their God-given potential through providing activities designed to foster spiritual, academic and social growth.

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

Accredited: ACTS, AISA, SACS, Advanced ED, NCPSA

N O W E N R O L L I N G K4-12 2017-2018

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

For a FREE Educational Success Consultation please contact the school office

F o r E v E r y G E n E r at i o n . Prattville First United Methodist Church • 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 TRADITIONAL WORSHIP 8: 30 AM & 11: 00 AM SUNDAY SCHOOL 9: 45 AM THE WELL 11: 00 AM

www.prattvillemethodist.org Montgomery Parents I April 2017

Montgomery Academy Sixth-Grader Competes in State Level National Geographic Bee

Montgomery Academy sixth-grader Jane Abbie Alford has been notified by the National Geographic Society that she is one of the semifinalists eligible to compete in the 2017 Alabama National Geographic State Bee. The contest was held at Samford University on Friday, March 31. This is the second level of the National Geographic Bee competition, which is now in its 29th year. School Bees were held in schools with fourth- through eighth-grade students throughout the state to determine each school champion. School champions then took a qualifying test, which they submitted to the National Geographic Society. The National Geographic Society has invited up to 100 of the top-scoring students in each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense Dependents Schools and U.S. territories to compete in the State Bees. Each state champion will receive $100, the National Geographic Concise Atlas of the World, 4th Edition and a trip to Washington, D.C., to represent their state in the National Geographic Bee Championship to be held at National Geographic Society headquarters, May 14-17. The national champion will receive a $50,000 college scholarship, a lifetime membership in the Society, including a subscription to National Geographic magazine, and an all expensespaid Lindblad expedition to the Galápagos Islands aboard the new National Geographic Endeavour ll. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Academy Spanish Honor Society Inducts New Members

The Marcelino Chapter of the Spanish Honor Society, founded at The Montgomery Academy in 1975, celebrates its 42nd anniversary this year. Since the chapter’s foundation, each year it inducts a select group of students into its ranks. On March 8, the Spanish Honor Society inducted its new members: Bisola Janet Adediji, Lucy Meriwether Chapman, Emma Elaine Cleary, Andrew Edward Hosp, Tara Berrigan Katz, Anne Price Kelly, Robert Morris Kelly, Arju Roy Reza, Lee Ayers Sahlie and Anne Carlson Sylvest. This year’s ceremony attended by students, family members, faculty and administrators took place in the new Aronov Leadership Center. The induction was conducted by this year’s outgoing officers: President Justin Andrew Jones; Vice-President Porter Brown Simmons; and Secretary-Treasurer Gyungmin Kim. Our speaker for the afternoon was Head of School Jay Spencer, who addressed the Society’s members in Spanish in his congratulatory remarks. Following the ceremony, the new inductees enjoyed the welcoming and the camaraderie of the Chapter’s sponsors, the senior members of the Society, their families and other faculty members and staff.

Pike Road Begins Search For New Superintendent

Pike Road Schools’ first Superintendent Dr. Suzanne Freeman has announced her retirement, and the Pike Road Board of Education has begun the process to find the best candidate to lead the Pike Road Schools System. Working together with Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone, PRS School Board President Ray Hawthorne, and the Town Council, the PRS School Board has secured an independent team to gather feedback and comments from the community. The process will be led by Dr. Ed Richardson.

al w

ed ch

ols e

al s-

hic

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Montgomery County Schools

Lanier Students Awarded for Achievements in #YesWeCode Competition

Holy Cross Class Enjoys Outdoor Scavenger Hunt

Holy Cross Episcopal School’s kindergarten took its usual indoor STEM lab exploration outside to go on a nature scavenger hunt. Students were divided into two teams and given a list of items to find, including something green, rough, soft, nice-smelling and pretty. After finding the items, each group took a moment to tell about them.

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

Five students from Sidney Lanier High won the Spirit of Rosa Parks Innovation Award for what organizers described as their “brilliance” displayed in the #YesWeCode Hackathon competition held at Montgomery Preparatory Academy for Career Technologies. The Lanier team presented a winning “budget app” and, according to organizers, showed professionalism and leadership skills throughout the day. On March 15, the team members took part in an interview on the national talk show, “Rock the Schools with Citizen Stewart.” Topics of discussion included why these students are determined to get a good education, how Lanier empowers learning, and a glimpse into the school’s history. The “Rock the Schools” initiative focuses on empowering parents and students by educating them about powerful stories to help students of color attain a quality education. A total of 15 students from Lanier High participated in the Hackathon and were awarded LG Pad mobile tablets provided by LG Electronics. The tablets will enable the students to continue to perfect their coding by connecting via Wi-Fi to online modules and resources.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Alumnus holding MIT Degree \ Science Olympiad \ Character Building Programs \ Music and Art

Spark curiosity.

You want your child to be given the opportunity to explore the world around them. You want them to have an excellent guide. One who can inspire them to follow their natural curiosities. And spark the difference that will set them on their journey of academic success. This is Catholic. Montgomer y C atholic Preparator y S cho ol

Grades K4 - 12

montgomer ycatholic.org

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

I hope everyone had a fun and restful spring break! This is a busy and thrilling time of year filled with testing and the anticipation of graduation. I am excited to share with you all the wonderful things happening in Autauga County. Autauga Education Foundation held a grant reception on January 31st at the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce. Over $32,000 was allocated for 23 different projects in the school system. I would like to congratulate the following teachers: April Bush and Tammy Trammell for Communicating with Pictures, Dianna Havard for Grant Me Access!, Rita Goldman for Expedition with a View, Latrese Hodges for Music in the Key of Gee, Ashley Brock for STEM Education: Inspiring Futures with Robotics, Erin Davis for Project Focus, Nancy Shackelford for Maximize and Master with Mobymax, Annabeth Greene for Anti-bullying

Campaign, Emily Gregory for SPHERO, Megan Anglin for An Orffestra for Pine Level Elementary Students, Sharry Bingham and Jessica Owens for Breakout EDU, Cindy Mitchell, Elizabeth Conn, and Alyson Hahn for Science Olympiad Kits, Cindy Hines for Academy of Leaders, Martin Jackson for PJHS Wall of Honor, Janie Jones for Get Movinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;!, Amanda Gonzales-Jackson for Setting up to Lay the Foundation, Jessica Thompson for Prattville Kinder-Garden, Joanna Cobern for Multi-Sensory Reading Intervention Initiative, Christie Metz for Leaping Over TechKNOWLEDGEy, Denise Syslo for Hot off the Press, Kristie Glidden for STEM Adventure, and Bonnie Levchick for Technologize for MY Future! Sharing the accomplishments of our students is truly one of the best aspects of my job. Students from every school in our system are participating in activities, competing against other students around the state, and garnering accolades. The Autauga County Spelling Bee took place on February 9th at Prattville Elementary School. Students from all across Autauga County participated. Congratulations to winner Inman Hebert from Daniel Pratt Elementary and runner-up Campbell Vest from Prattville Intermediate! Prattville High School represented Autauga County at the State Superintendentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

Visual Arts Exhibit Awards Luncheon on February 9th. Congratulations to 1st place winner Zoe Sparks and honorable mention Youngho Kwon! We are truly blessed to have excellent teachers and students in Autauga County. Another important part of our system is the finance department, and I am pleased to announce that they had zero findings in the annual audit this year. This is no small feat! Effective budgeting and money management allows us to purchase science textbooks for 9th through 12th grade students at Autaugaville, Billingsley, Marbury High, and Prattville High. The board voted to purchase these textbooks, totaling $194,631.05, during a regular board meeting on January 26th. With the end of the 2016-2017 school year quickly approaching, our teachers, students, and school system as a whole have so many accomplishments to reflect back on and so many more ahead. Thanks to all the parents and community members who make these things possible!

Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 20 years of experience in the education field as well as 29 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2017 2011

TH E LEARNING TREE C H I L D D E V E L O P M E N T C E N T E R S , I N C . Your children deserve the best, why not give it to them. We pride ourselves at The Learning Tree in having the best child care program for ages 6 wks. to 12 yrs. We are D.H.R. Licensed and provide transportation to and from public school. Full Day Care and Half day (morning or afternoon).

ENROLL NOW, CALL TODAY!

5 Convenient Locations:

6wks-12yrs available at all locations but Carmichael Rd.

1816 Glynwood Dr. Prattville - 365-1451 I 288 Deatsville Hwy. Millbrook - 285-1188 1767 Halcyon Blvd. - 272-3188 I 3335 Woodley Rd. - 284-5560 I 4120 Carmichael Rd. - 271-4733

SPECIAL OFFER

FREE REGISTRATION With this coupon and new enrollment only. Up to $85 Value!

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

ary

nce at

g e

5, th.

rch or,

Holy Week Opportunities FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH MONTGOMERY

Saturday , April 8 10:00 am to noon

SPRING CELEBRATION

Sunday , April 9 8:30 & 11:00 am

PALM SUNDAY WORSHIP

5:45 pm

NO CHILDREN’S CHOIRS, DISCIPLESHIP CLASSES OR OTHER ACTIVITIES

6:15 pm

EASTER COMMUNION WORSHIP

Friday , April 14 12:00 pm

9:45 am

GOOD FRIDAY WORSHIP

5:00 pm

Sunday , April 16

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CLASSES DISCIPLESHIP CLASSES, VISITATION, CHILDREN’S MISSIONS & YOUTH CHOIRS

6:15 pm

EVENING WORSHIP

Wednesday , April 12 5:00 pm

FIRST FAMILY DINNER

8:30 & 11:00 am

EASTER WORSHIP CELEBRATION

9:45 am

BIBLE FELLOWSHIP CLASSES

5:00 pm

NO DISCIPLESHIP CLASSES, VISITATION, CHILDREN’S MISSIONS OR YOUTH CHOIRS

6:15 pm

EVENING WORSHIP

“I AM THE RESURRECTION AND THE LIFE.” — JOHN 11:25 (NIV)

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH MONTGOMERY :: JAY WOLF, PASTOR 43 305 S PERRY STREET :: MONTGOMERY, AL 36104 :: 334.834.6310 :: MONTGOMERYFBC.ORG www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Autauga County Schools

Le ha aS

PCA Athletic Director Named to National Board

Tara Osborne, Prattville Christian Academy’s athletic director, was named to the National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) board of directors at the 47th National Athletic Directors Conference in Indianapolis, Indiana. She, along with fellow board members, represent 10,000 NIAAA members across the country and world. Osborne is one of the few female AD’s in the industry but that doesn’t stop her from achieving the most in her profession. As a NIAAA board member, she will represent Alabama, Georgia, Florida, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Louisiana and Mississippi during her three-year appointment. “Osborne is a Christlike example for her coaches, players and the entire PCA community,” said Rebecca Thomas, PCA’s marketing and communications director. “She will no doubt be a shining light for PCA, the Prattville community and our state during her tenure.” The National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association is a world-class organization that espouses the mission and vision of education-based athletics. It preserves, enhances and promotes educational-based athletics through the professional development of interscholastic athletic administrators. As a recognized accredited educational institution committed to leadership programs, resources and service opportunities, the Association supports the athletic administrator’s effort in providing quality athletic participation opportunities for students. “The board is comprised of the most amazing group of volunteers who are truly the ‘best of the best’ our interscholastic school programs have to offer,” said Osborne. “The engagement and focus of this group is exciting to be associated with; I’m very humbled to have the opportunity to work with them over the next three years.” Montgomery Parents I April 2017

Marbury Students Compete in Miss Marala Pageant

Marbury High School held its annual Miss Marala Pageant on February 25. Seven young ladies competed in the competition. Junior Madison Anderson won this year’s Miss Marala! 1st Alternate was senior Jasmine Hilliard, 2nd Alternate was freshman Valerie Ogle, and Miss Congeniality was junior Jessica Strength. From left are freshman Anna Dennis, sophomore Kathryn Eads, senior and 1st alternate Jasmine Hilliard, Miss Marala 2017 junior Madison Anderson, freshman and 2nd alternate Valerie Ogle, junior and Miss Congeniality Jessica Strength, and senior Christina Morgan.

Autauga County Technology Center Hosts 2017 Alabama CTE Tour

On February 14, State Superintendent Michael Sentance, State Career and Technical Education Director Philip Cleveland, and other State Department officials joined Autauga County Superintendent Spence Agee, State and Local Board of Education members, Workforce Development representatives, and local business and industry leaders in touring the Autauga County Technology Center as a part of the 2017 Career and Technical Education State Tour. The group enjoyed a pre-tour breakfast sponsored by the Prattville Area Chamber of Commerce Economic Development Committee. The purpose of the tour was to showcase fourteen of Alabama’s most innovative local career technical programs and to emphasize the importance of offering rigorous programs of study, which incorporate both academic and technical knowledge and skills, to prepare students to meet the workforce demands of our region, state, and the expanding global economy. Center administrator Cindy Epperson and Career Coach Chris Thornton provided guests with a first-hand look at the diverse program offerings at the ACTC. Innovative programs, such as Project Lead the Way (Engineering), Industrial Maintenance, Microsoft IT Academy and Welding were highlighted, along with other programs representing eleven of the sixteen National Clusters. Strong partnerships with business and industry are essential to building relevant, high quality programs that prepare students for further study and for the workforce. We invite you to become a part of the exciting opportunities taking place at the Autauga County Technology Center as we strive to “Develop the Workforce of Tomorrow!” 44

www.montgomeryparents.com

Prattville Junior High School Spends National History Day at Birmingham Holocaust Center

Leah Bascomb, Candice Stringfellow and Alexis Washington reached out to the Birmingham Holocaust Center for their 2017 National History Day project. This year’s theme, “Taking a Stand,” inspired these students to focus on Miep Gies, who stood against the anti-Semitic beliefs of Hitler’s Nazi Regime during World War II by hiding Anne Frank and her family. While in Birmingham, Bascomb, Stringfellow and Washington were able to interview Denise Lewis, a second-generation Holocaust survivor. The interview was set up by Kendall Chew, the Program’s administrator, who also showed the girls around the museum and gave them access to their archives.

Tooth Fairy Visits Pine Level

Second graders at Pine Level Elementary School were treated to a surprise visit from the Tooth Fairy in February for Dental Health Month. Excitement was in the air as the Tooth Fairy, with the help of staff members from Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, talked to the students and demonstrated how to properly care for their teeth. Each student was provided with a goody bag filled with dental care items. Each bag had a toothbrush, toothpaste and dental flossers. Thanks to Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics for a great presentation and the dental health gifts.

o he red-

eer

ial

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Autauga County Schools

Pine Level Celebrates Read Across America

PKS Holds Open House

On March 16, Prattville Kindergarten School had an Open House for Parents. This Open House was to showcase all of the learning that took place during a projectbased learning unit about habitats. During February and March, teachers and students began researching different types of habitats. From there, each learning community throughout the school chose a different habitat to research. Over the weeks, the entire school evolved and reflected all of the different habitats. Students could walk through the grasslands, desert, rainforest, woodlands, ocean, tundra and freshwater habitat. This study incorporated hands-on experiences in all subject areas such as science, writing, math, geography, art and reading. The Open House was an opportunity for the teachers to step back and let the students take on the teaching role. The students were able to teach facts, conduct experiments and show off all of their hard work to their parents.

During the week of February 27 – March 3, Pine Level Elementary students celebrated Read Across America Week by wearing amazing socks, many different colors, shirts from places they had visited, green clothing, and Cat-in-the-Hat hats. In addition to each day’s special emphasis, the culminating activity on Friday involved special guest readers. Christen Harry read to each individual class in the third grade. Jeff Stockman read to second-grade students in the lunchroom. Officer Steve Adams read to each fifth-grade class. Cathy Loftin read to fourth-grade students in the library. Nancy Jackson, . Debra Hill, Susan Akins and Lesley Rogers read to first-grade students in their classrooms. Melinda Hollon read to pre-K and kindergarten classes in the library story well. Pine Level students appreciate all who participated!

Le Ma ary acc in s

Prattville High Speech and Debate Qualifies to Nationals, Named Leading Chapter School

The Prattville High School Speech and Debate team competed March 3-4 at the Deep South District Tournament held at The Montgomery Academy. The district tournament qualifies the top students in each event to the NSDA National Tournament which will be held this summer June 19-23 in Birmingham. Prattville High finalists are Nick Albright, Clayton Donhauser, Hugh Sparks and Lucy Sonsalla. Prattville students who placed first or second in the district qualifying for nationals are John Bergdolt, Hannah Edwards, Landon Kramer and Gentry Slay. Additionally, the team received the Individual Events Overall Sweepstakes trophy and Prattville High was recognized as the Leading Chapter School in the district. A special congratulations to team member Hannah Edwards, who was named the 2017 Deep South District Student of the Year. The Prattville team is coached by Katy Olienyk and Jordan Berry. From left are John Bergdolt, Katy Olienyk, Hannah Edwards, Gentry Slay and Jordan Kramer.

Prattville Kindergarten School Safari Tours

During the month of March, Prattville Kindergarten School was busy with registration for the 2017-18 school year. Upcoming kindergarten students got to come and visit the school with their parents and take a safari tour. As the children were busy finding all of the wild animals on their list, they were able to stop along the way and learn all about Prattville Kindergarten School. Parents, children and PKS staff enjoyed a fun time together. If you have a child that will be entering kindergarten next year, registration times for the 2017-18 school year are April 3 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Beginning April 11, you can register on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Come join us at PKS where we are “Wild About Learning!”

Pine Level Faculty Work Together to Break Out!

The faculty at Pine Level Elementary participated in a team building activity during the February in-service. Faculty and staff worked collaboratively to solve a series of puzzles on Growth Mindset to open a box that had a variety of locks. The faculty used Breakout boxes that were funded through a grant from the Autauga Retired Teachers Association. Breakout Edu is a game that encourages critical thinking, collaboration, communication and creativity. Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

Mr en com sta aw Me ($1 Tro

Marbury High School FFA

Learning to Do, Doing to Learn, Earning to Live, Living to Serve. The Marbury High School FFA is a very active chapter. The week of February 19-24 was National FFA week, which celebrated the history and accomplishments of the FFA. Students were encouraged to dress up in support of the program.

ht, cy or are

the yk ry

Prattville Junior High Finishes on Top

Mrs. Rowe, 8th grade English teacher at Prattville Junior High, encouraged her students to enter the Alabama Peace Officers’ essay competition on “Why I Will Say No to Drugs and Alcohol.” Across the state, more than 1,000 entries were submitted and four prizes were awarded. PJHS had a clean sweep of all four prizes, including: RJ Meyer, 1st place ($300), Robert Humphrey ($200), Taylor Cole ($125) and Gracie Keith ($75). Meyer also won a $500 scholarship to Troy University.

ANCHORS AWAY! SUMMER DAY CAMP

ari f e

• Indoor & Outdoor Activities • Fun Field Trips • Meal Plan Option • Arts & Crafts, Archery & Games • Sports & Swimming • 3 Prattville Locations

r 9

9 we

prattvilleymca.org • (334) 358-1446 47

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my career as an educator is recognition of our stakeholders –students, employees, and other individuals who play important roles in our school system. I had the opportunity recently to recognize the teacher of the year for each of our schools as well as the Elementary Teacher of the Year and Secondary Teacher of the Year for the district. A very special event was held at the Lanark NaturePlex in Millbrook, Alabama. The teachers and their principals were invited to a catered luncheon in their honor. Following the luncheon, I had the privilege of presiding over the awards ceremony to honor each of these very deserving teachers. Our Elementary Teachers of the Year are Tara Holley, Eclectic Elementary; Erika Shockley, Eclectic Middle; Krystal Davis, Holtville Elementary; Tammi Ellis (5th-6th Grade), Holtville Middle; Kayla Milam, Coosada Elementary; Debbie Jones, Airport Road Intermediate; Susan Crowell (5th-6th Grade), Millbrook Middle; Sandra Williford, Redland Elementary; Tanya Hibbard,

Wetumpka Elementary; and Shayla Broadway (5th-6th Grade), Wetumpka Middle. Our Secondary Teachers of the Year are Sherry Taylor (7th8th Grade), Eclectic Middle; Rosa Stokes, Elmore County High School; Jodi Miles (7th-8th Grade), Holtville Middle; Alyssia Partridge, Holtville High; Leah King (7th-8th Grade) Millbrook Middle; Mary Westbrook, Stanhope Elmore High; Donna Galloway (7th-8th Grade), Wetumpka Middle; Phalanda Johnson, Wetumpka High, and Lori Higgins, Elmore County Technical Center. The Elmore County Elementary Teacher of the Year is Debbie Jones, Library Media Specialist, at Airport Road Intermediate. The Secondary Teacher of the Year is Phalanda Johnson, AP Biology Teacher at Wetumpka High School. It was also my pleasure to present all of the honorees with a special recognition gift. In addition, the Elementary Teacher of the Year was surprised with the use of a yellow Mustang convertible by Collier Ford and the Secondary Teacher of the Year was surprised with the use of a red Camaro by Riverside Chevrolet, each for one week! These two teachers also received laptop computers donated by Howard Technology and CDI Computers, tote bags, technology accessories, and gift cards donated by Walmart. Chrietzberg Photography provided portrait photos of the honorees for our Central Office

Lobby, and our bank partners provided funding to support our efforts. Mrs. Barbara Haisten and the Elmore County High School Family and Consumer Science Department decorated for the luncheon, and the Wetumpka High School JROTC Cadets presented colors. The entire event and all of the gifts for teachers were made possible by the very generous contributions of our Partners in Education: Lanark, First Community Bank, USAmeriBank, River Bank and Trust, Chrietzberg Photography, Collier Ford, Riverside Chevrolet, Walmart, Howard Technology, and CDI Computers. Finally, I would like to express my appreciation to our Central Office Teachers of the Year Coordinators – Mrs. Glenda VanErmen, Mrs. Linda Williams, and Mrs. Cindy Cochran – for their efforts to organize this event. Most importantly, I want to thank all of our teachers for their selfless service to their students. Elmore County Public Schools has outstanding teachers throughout the district, and it is truly a pleasure and privilege for me to work with them each day. Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He completed his undergraduate degree in English and History Education at The University of Alabama, his Master’s degree in English at Troy University and his Administrative Certification at AUM. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.

h Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

to he mer n,

e ry a-

rt,

nda

I ss

he or

You are invited to be our guest as we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ this Easter season. You’ll find amazing music, exciting children’s programs, and an inspiring message.

WWW.FRAZE R.CHU RCH

ma,

lso

APR

Easter Sunday Morning Worship Three Locations

BLOUN T C ULTUR A L PA RK (AC R OS S FR OM AS F)

FRAZE R AT LANTA HIGHWAY

FRAZE R PIKE ROA D

6:00 AM Sunrise Worship with Aldersgate UMC Bring lawn chair or blanket; rain cancels

8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 AM Contemporary & Traditional Worship Services

9:00 & 10:30 AM Worship Services in the Pike Road School

holy week APR

egg hunts

Maundy Thursday 7:00 PM Holy Communion FRAZER ATLANTA HIGHWAY A dramatic presentation of Jesus’ last supper

Pike Road Community Egg Hunt @ M.A.N.E. Saturday, April 1 Old-Fashioned Egg Hunt @ Frazer Atlanta Hwy. April 15

APR

Good Friday

6:00 PM King of Glory FRAZER PIKE ROAD An Easter worship concert focusing on the victory of Jesus on the cross

7:00 PM Service of Darkness FRAZER ATLANTA HIGHWAY A somber but beautiful remembrance of the crucifixion of Jesus 49

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Elmore County Schools

Coosada Library Receives Bright Ideas Grant for Bilingual Books

Mrs. Swicord and Mrs. Hurst partnered with Coosada Elementary’s library to receive a Bright Ideas Grant from the Central Alabama Electric Cooperative. The grant allowed the library to purchase 65 bilingual books. These books will be a great resource for Spanish-speaking families to read with their children at home.

tec po oth de tion inc sys ext fro ins

Wetumpka High School Presents Ghost: the Musical

A murder. A bond so strong that even death couldn’t break it. Ghost the Musical brings the timeless love story from the Academy Award-winning film to the stage with a searing score, remarkable illusions, and the perfect balance of humor and tragedy. The play will be performed in Wetumpka High School Commons, 1251 Coosa River Parkway, Wetumpka. Dates are Thursday, April 20-Saturday, April 22 at 6:30 p.m.; Friday, April 28, at 6:30 p.m.; and Saturday, April 29, at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults; $5 for ages 6-12; and free for ages 5 and under.

RES Third-Graders Win Farm City Poster Contest

Redland Elementary third-grade teacher Mistry Trussell is shown with her students Carter Westbrook, left, who won second place for Redland Elementary in the Elmore County Farmer’s Federation Farm City Poster contest, and Caleb Garner, right, who won first place for Redland. Garner also won first place for Elmore County in the poster contest. His poster will now go on to the state level competition.

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

sch the Tec yea Ala in 2 in t ma ba

wh sch fro ha tion gro or sys the gra com do

Eclectic Elementary Students of the Month

Kindergarten: Carson Lusco, Marlee Spear, Willy Pillard, Ben Merritt, Kaya Petty, Charlie Diamaduros; 1st Grade: Savannah Harris, Daniel Weldon, Sophia Vittore, Kayden Haskins, Khloe Travis, Emma Nummy; 2nd Grade: Caroline Hill, Jaylyn Hill, Kelsey Crumpton, Wyatt Bolt, Marley Bickley; 3rd Grade: Bryanna Hines, Jaiden Freeman, Jenna Robertson, Alycia Gill, Landon Boswell, Charlissia Gibbs; and 4th Grade: Jakob Edwards, Brodie Moore, Eli Carpenter, Eli McGhee, Zander Emfinger

thr inte the gra dir

Ed Ala htt

R to p ta h 50

www.montgomeryparents.com

mi-

State Technology Leaders Graduate From Certification Program

On February 22 in Montgomery, 32 school system technology leaders became the first graduates of the Alabama Chief Technology Officer certification program. The year-long program was established by the Alabama Educational Technology Association in 2016. The credential is the first of its kind in the state. It was designed for those who manage the technology programs in Alabama’s school systems. Today’s school systems rely heavily on technology for enhancing educational opportunities for students. In addition, like any other employer with multiple campuses, they depend on technology for their communications, business functions, and operations, including safety. Being in charge of a school system’s technology program requires extensive knowledge in many different areas from networking and data management to instructional design and privacy concerns. Unlike school system finance directors, who nearly all have degrees in accounting, school system technology directors come from several different backgrounds. Some have teaching and administrative certifications, some have IT and technical backgrounds, and others have business degrees or experience. This program ensures school systems that no matter what area of expertise their technology director came with, they will graduate from the CTO program with a good command of all the different areas it takes to do the job well. The AL-CTO graduates came from throughout the state. Many of their superintendents traveled to Montgomery to see them receive their certificates. Among the graduates was Elmore County’s technology director, Barbara Burchard. For more information about the Alabama Educational Technology Association and the Alabama CTO Certification Program, visit http://www.go-aeta.org.

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

Redland Teacher Gets Taped!

Redland third-grade teacher Misty Trussell’s students duct taped her to the wall as an incentive to improving on their ACT Aspire interim practice testing. Every student improved his or her score to be able to tape their teacher to the wall... and she stuck there once they taped her! 51

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Elmore County Schools

Alfa Awards Poster Winners from Holtville

Holtville Elementary student Carter Covington won first place and Layne Ford won second place in the 1st-3rd grade division of Alfa’s Farm City poster contest. The two boys, their teacher, Mrs. Wiggins, and Principal Chris Holley attended the awards ceremony at The Catfish House where they were treated with a scrumptious meal. Covington came away with a second-place county recognition.

Redland Junior Beta Club Visits Dauphin Island

Redland Elementary School’s Junior Beta Club took 75 members to Dauphin Island Sea Lab February 1-3 for a wet, wild and educational experience.

Wetumpka Elementary Celebrates 100th Day

On February 1, Wetumpka Elementary celebrated the 100th day of school. Kindergarten students participated by popping 100 balloons.

Omegaman Visits Coosada

Students at Coosada Elementary enjoyed a presentation by Omegaman. He encouraged the students to make right choices and overcome obstacles. He displayed many feats of strength including bending steel with his teeth, snapping a bat over his leg and ripping a phonebook in two. Students dressed up as superheroes and loved watching a real superhero in action. Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

“O Air aw da po Dr. the rea

Holtville Student Council Leads Drive for Humane Shelter

The Holtville Elementary Student Council led the school in a drive to collect items for the Elmore County Humane Society. The students raised more than $200 in monetary donations and numerous supplies for the animals at the shelter.

ter

y e e

Airport Road Intermediate Has Wacky Wonderful Week “Oh the Place You’ll Go” and what a week you will have if you’re an Airport Road Intermediate student. February 27 through March 3 was a week full of wonderful activities in celebration of Dr. Seuss’s birthday. Students had dress-up days in honor of special Dr. Seuss books, poster contests and special classroom activities. Special visitors read Dr. Seuss books, including the Stanhope Elmore cheerleaders and the Stanhope Elmore Book Club. ARIS strives to promote the love of reading that will last a lifetime!

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

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Elmore County Schools

Holtville Dresses for Seuss!

Holtville Elementary School staff joined in on the Dr. Seuss fun! The students and staff had a dress-up day each day during the week. March 2 was Dr. Seuss’s birthday, so to celebrate, the staff wore “Teacher I am” shirts.The staff read several Dr. Seuss books to their students and enjoyed the week!

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

ARIS Student Council Collects For Humane Society

ha an las Mo Sc

org tion to inc tor pro

As a Spring Community Service Project, the student council at Airport Road Intermediate School chose to collect items for the Elmore County Humane Shelter. After only a few weeks of collecting, they were excited to deliver their first donations. Airport Road continuously strives to promote academics as well as the development of future leaders.

cha tee me tha sci Ala bo

by Se

so sai Ala ma

Ca ha an Ell

On Co Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

Tallassee Educator Leads Statewide Meeting on Science Education

A veteran chemistry and physical science teacher in Tallassee has been doing great things statewide to represent this community and her profession. Mary Ellen Manning, veteran educator at Tallassee High School and a graduate of Robert E. Lee High School in Montgomery, is currently serving as the President of the Alabama Science Teachers Association. The Alabama Science Teachers Association is a professional organization promoting excellence and innovation in science education by providing visionary leadership and professional development to support science educators in Alabama. Guiding principles of ASTA include modeling excellence, providing opportunities for all educators and students, offering quality professional development, and the promotion of public awareness and support for science education. “I led an ASTA presidential chain meeting with two of the cochairs of the Superintendent’s Science Strategic Planning Committee along with two committee members who are also ASTA Board members during the conference,” Manning said. “They suggested that ASTA send the Committee a letter stating what ASTA envisioned science education in classrooms looking like five years from now with Alabama performing in the middle of the pack instead of near the bottom.” Manning also followed up the conference and committee work by meeting with the new State Superintendent of Education Michael Sentance. Sentance recently came to Alabama from Massachusetts. “I’ve also applied to be on the Superintendent’s Teacher Cabinet so that the classroom science teacher voice can be heard,” Manning said. “I normally don’t toot my own horn, but being president of the Alabama Science Teachers Association for this past year has been a major accomplishment and honor.” From left are ASTA’s newly inducted president Nancy Caffee, President-elect Teresa Gregory, Dr. Christine Cunningham, founder and director of EiE (Engineering is Elementary) and vice president of the Boston Museum of Science, and Mary Ellen Manning.

WES Chorus Performs Spring Concert

On March 6, the Wetumpka Elementary Chorus performed its Spring Concert under the direction of Sarah Swedenberg.

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

ARIS Student Wins Free Throw Contest

Airport Road Intermediate School third-grader Taylor Burkett recently won the Elmore County Free Throw Competition for her age group. She will now compete at the State Level.

Eclectic Students Utilize Maker Spaces

Third- and fourth-grade students at Eclectic Elementary have been learning with Maker Spaces in the library. Students are shown below building a circuit board.

Chattanooga, Tennessee

ARIS Valentine Dance

The students at Airport Intermediate School danced the night away at the annual Valentine Dance. The night was a huge success and we thank the ARIS Valentine Dance committee and parent volunteers who made this night possible for our students.

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

der

l -

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Parents of Teens Must Adapt Trying to understand how to help your teen in a world that is constantly changing is like trying to hit a target that constantly moves. Just when your aim is right on target, things change — your kids change. Parents are often bewildered when trying to keep up with the always-changing world of teens. It’s like trying to get a drink of water from a fire hydrant, or holding a fistful of sand. Knowing how to set the right standards and enforce the right discipline can be overwhelming, and may seem impossible. The key to success in this arena lies in learning to adapt your parenting style to be more fluid, more accessible. As your child develops into a teen, you no longer have the luxury of making demands and expecting things to remain the same. Whether you like it or not, things change, and you must be able to understand and move with the culture, and set appropriate boundaries. I’m not saying you should stop caring about your family rules and beliefs. What I am saying is that how you enforce the rules must change. Otherwise, your child will be unprepared to cope with a culture that is constantly changing. They won’t develop healthy relationships. They will remain immature and irresponsible, because all of the decisions have always been made for them.

Change The Boundaries

Adapting your style must include learning how to set appropriate boundaries for their newly acquired behaviors, and giving them the choice for the direction they need to go. A good example of how this works comes from the time I spend training horses. When I put a fence around a horse, I am setting up boundaries. The horse can go anywhere it likes within those fences. If a problem develops, I move the Montgomery Parents I April 2017

fences in a bit, and reinforce the boundaries. The same can be true with your teen. Set boundaries, and allow your teen to choose his direction within those boundaries. If a problem develops, or things change, move the boundaries in. Examine their world, and put some thought into what needs to be done. Kids today often engage with one another without really interacting or developing any kind of real relationships. The lack of interaction doesn’t help them hone their maturity or grow in their social skills. It’s your job to help them grow. So set the boundaries that help them do more than just engage with others – they need to learn how to interact. Let them choose the direction they want to go. Allow them to experience the consequences of choosing poorly. Help them to see that poor choices and crossing healthy boundaries will take their relationships in directions they don’t want to go, and choosing well will help them build good relationships.

Change Your Aim

Changing your parenting style for the teen years means you change your focus from punishment and discipline to training and character building. The focus of the boundaries you set should become more about obedience, respect, and honesty, which are the top three qualities necessary to build relationships. Respect, more than anything else, allows all others to fall into their proper place. Conversely, disobedience, disrespect, and dishonesty destroy relationships, and need to be addressed when they appear also. Dishonesty, more than anything else, destroys trust in relationships. Hold your teen responsible for the direction they choose, and cause them to own it. They will make some mistakes, but that’s alright. If they lay the blame on you, however, remember to put the responsibil58

ity clearly back on them. Tell them, “This is not about me, or my mistakes, this is about you. I will never be a perfect parent, but if you don’t change things, this will hurt you in your relationships in the future.”

Change Your Attitudes

Changing your style of parenting teens in order to meet the demands of today’s world also means that you refocus your own attitudes and behavior as well: • Move from lecturing to discussing. • Move from entertaining to experiencing something together. • Move from demanding everything, to asking them their ideas about everything. • Move from seeking justice to giving grace. • Move from seeing everything that’s wrong and finding more of what’s right. • Move from spending time always telling them to more time listening. • Move from giving your opinion to waiting until you are asked. It is difficult for teens today to grow up and move on. They tend to like their immaturity, and don’t feel the need to grow in their responsibilities. Teaching them to grow and own their attitudes and choices is one of the most important character qualities we can help them develop. So, don’t just tell them they need to be responsible, or that they need to be mature. Instead, carefully identify what is going on in their world, and begin to set out boundaries that give them responsibility and cause them to act upon them. And when the next new thing comes along, learn to adjust the boundaries in ways that help them continue to recognize their need to be mature, responsible, and own up to the consequences of their choices. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

www.montgomeryparents.com

50% OFF READING REGISTRATION 02.01– 03.15

FOR AGES 3+

is out if u

YOUR KIDS ARE SMART

WE JUST MAKE THEM SMARTER

Give your child an academic advantage in school and beyond!

• The Kumon Method helps children ages 3 through high school advance their math and reading skills • Since every child is different, our individualized programs mean your child progresses at his or her own speed, experiencing success which builds confidence and self-esteem

ow o s

e. on d-

n o

• As many Kumon Students advance in both our Reading and Math Programs, their parents find them studying ahead of their peers, and above grade level

SAVE

50 % ON

KUMON RE ADING REGISTRATION * Kumon Math & Reading Centers of

MONTGOMERY - CENTRAL

MONTGOMERY - SOUTHEAST

1655 Perry Hill Rd., Montgomery, AL 36106

8125 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL 36116

334.279.1400

kumon.com/montgomery-central

334.649.1178

kumon.com/montgomery-southeast

ens ens s

©2017 Kumon North America, Inc. All Rights Reserved. 59 Most Kumon Centers are independently owned and operated. Additional fees may apply. * Offer valid at participating Kumon Centers only when you enroll between 02/01/2017 - 03/15/2017. www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

po en wh lac ch pu an If y so go the

rea go we co he ch ea ting Th you ce you

ind pe sto en in p an do be to ac

ch tim ing

Teaching our kids to have goals, do their best, and leverage personal momentum to succeed are all good ideas. However, there is a difference between supporting a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s efforts to reach goals and taking control of the results we deem the best possible outcomes. Parents who habitually steamroll their kids rob them of personal experience on multiple levels. When parents over-step, kids can lose their point of view, their self-esteem may go down, they may feel confused, anxious or depressed, and may focus too much on pleasing parents instead of honoring their own desires.

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

Don’t let your children miss out on opportunities to learn from their own life experiences. Healthy kids are not confused about who they are and what they want. In fact, a lack of assertiveness and self-expression in children may be a signal to parents that they push too much and may need to back off and give kids a chance to assert themselves. If you tend to push too much, what are you so afraid of? If you are afraid your kids will set goals differently than you, don’t worry. This is the way it should be! Insecurity and poor boundaries are two reasons parents take over their children’s goals and make them their own. So what’s a well-meaning parent with some teeny-weeny control issues to do? Plenty. You can foster healthier relationships with yourself, with your child, and with other family members, so each person in your family can focus on setting and achieving goals without interference. Then, when each of you inevitably succeeds, you will all have something to genuinely celebrate. Here are 10 ways to detach from your kids’ goals.

1. Accept.

Your kids are unfolding individuals-in-process and you are a unique person-in-process, as well. People are stories. We have beginnings, middles, and ends. As long as we are here, our story is still in progress. Sometimes progress is messy, and we are never done growing, until we are done living. So if we can allow each other to be unique works in progress, we don’t have to put quite so much pressure on ourselves to achieve everything right this very minute.

2. Distinguish.

You are not your child and your child is not you. So maybe it’s time to ease up on comparing and contrasting family members. Who says parents and

children have to be anything alike? Maybe every single person in your family is a unique individual and you all have varied perspectives on any topic. This is likely true. Forget pressing for family groupthink. You can’t make your kids into you, nor should you ask them to be you. All you can do is be yourself and let them be themselves.

3. Moderate. Be a good enough

parent, not a perfect parent. If you have to be a perfect parent, then everyone in your family has to be perfect too, and this is exhausting for everyone. If you put unrealistic pressures on yourself and your family members, stop. Try not judging your family by appearance. External indicators are not the measure of internal happiness, anyway. Truth: you are imperfect, you make mistakes, you do the best you can, and this is all good enough. You can only feel like enough if you can let yourself and others embrace imperfection.

4. Strive.

Have your own goals, not just goals for each of your children. Do you have a vocation or avocation beyond mothering and fathering? If not, you really need to get one or several. Parents who put all their identity eggs in one parenting basket are destined for a big fall, once children grow up and leave home. Because, yes, parenting is a full time job; but it’s not supposed to be your only identity in life. If you cling to your parenting role too much, ask yourself what other life challenges you might be trying to avoid. Chances are good, you are anxious about stretching your own wings. Focusing on your own goals and taking pride in each baby step will make you feel better than staying stuck.

5. Reach out. Get your own emotional needs met, rather than using your children for inner fulfillment. You may not realize you are doing this, but if you have unresolved childhood issues you have not yet faced, it is probably time to heal your past. The emotional work you are not willing to do can have long-term negative effects on your children. So don’t try to sort everything out without assistance. If you are aware of a family history of addiction, neglect, mental illness, divorce, narcissism, abuse or control issues, then you are likely going to need professional input to sort it all out and get yourself on a healthy emotional track. Don’t put this off, for your family’s sake. 6. Let go. As the wife of a high school

theater director, I have witnessed parents of aspiring thespians bartering for their children’s advancement on more occasions than I care to remember. After moving into the district, it took us a couple of years to realize that many of our new overly enthusiastic friends were actually looking to secure a future leading role for their child. Why do parents do this? Apparently they believe that trading favors is better than letting their kids compete with their peers on an even playing field. But how long are mom and dad going to be able to smooth the way for successes? And if you asked the child, wouldn’t he say that he would rather earn the role rather than having mom and dad nab it for him?

7. Allow.

Acknowledge your fears and insecurities in life and express them in front of your kids occasionally. You may think your children can’t handle seeing you struggle, but by hiding your negative emotions you won’t provide healthy examples of how to process

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

feelings with trusted others. Life is full of highs and lows. Trying to keep the emotional tone unnaturally high at all times is more detrimental than helpful. Kids need to see parents as regular old human beings who both thrive and falter. So set the example of how to experience a full range of emotions in your home and you’re children will learn how to move through negative emotions.

8. Join in.

Help your kids create momentum in arenas they love, while still acknowledging the rest of the team. If your child always has to be the star for your sake, she will have trouble fitting in with the rest of the kids. If you can’t settle for anything but the best for your child, check your attitude for entitlement. Believing your child is superior to others is detrimental to social development. So take her down off the pedestal and get to work figuring out why you need to put her there in the first place. Chances are good it has more to do with your low self-esteem than what your child wants and needs. If you can join groups without having to be the best or the leader, your child can learn to appreciate the value in connecting for it’s own sake, too.

9. Aim high. Toddlers don’t usually

walk across the room on their first attempt, and you won’t hit every goal on the first try either. But if you don’t set goals beyond your ken, then how are kids going to learn how to do the same themselves? Of course, this means sometimes you won’t succeed and your children will witness your inevitable failures. But, if you come up with ways to bounce back from life’s disappointments, your children will learn to do the same. And that’s great because then you are teaching them that aiming high is a challenging learning experience, not just an opportunity for guaranteed applause.

10. Relax. Home is supposed to be a sanctuary for the whole family, not a place where kids come to get probed, lectured, and controlled. If your home is not a place where each family member can retreat and find some peace and quiet, why isn’t it? Maybe a parent is spending too much time alone worrying about how each child can get ahead rather than getting out and contributing to the community. Don’t be a pushy parent. You may feel like you are making strides for your children in the short run, but you are robbing each of them of developing an organic identity at their own pace. Create a restful home, full of divergent opinions, healthy debates, and spontaneous selfexpression. mp Author, journalist and writing coach Christina Katz is proud to say that her daughter is nothing like her and is under no pressure to become her any time soon. Playing Christina Katz is a role that has already cheerfully been taken.

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

hs e ns

pee

e, f

or to .

Don’t let joint pain interfere with your play.

an n

te o.

OUR SPECIALISTS

Is joint pain interrupting your life? Central Alabama’s newest Rheumatology clinic is the UAB Medicine Multispecialty Clinic at Baptist South. Our

specialty-trained UAB doctors and compassionate staff from Baptist South offer the latest treatments, therapies and procedures to alleviate your discomfort from diseases like lupus, gout and rheumatoid arthritis. Carlos Gadea, M.D.

Knowledge that will change your world

t g e

You don’t have to miss out on life’s little moments. Give us a call today.

Specializing In Rheumatoid arthritis | Osteoarthritis | Psoriatic arthritis

ud no

UAB Medicine Rheumatology

334.613.7070

Ximena Ruiz, M.D.

MULTISPECIALTY CLINIC BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER SOUTH

UABmedicine-Baptist.com/rheumatology 2119 East South Blvd, east of the Emergency entrance at Baptist South

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

PARENT

Creative Apps for Creative Kids We live in the Golden Age of Apps. For parents, this can be confusing. Kids love apps but many seem like little more than high-tech pacifiers that amuse without stimulating. To find the exceptions, parents have to evaluate apps as they do other playthings. Is the app developmentally appropriate? Does it promote active engagement or passive viewing? Does your child get excited enough to want to tell you about what he or she is doing? Apps that encourage creativity are usually winners. These mini-programs encourage your child to explore, think and make things they can share with other people. Obviously, you’ll want to match the app with your child’s aptitudes and interests but here are ten promising possibilities. These programs are available through the Apple I-Tunes store though, in many cases, comparable products are available for other platforms.

3. Sketch Critters.

1. Pull together a picture book.

6. Tell a tale.

Tapikeo provides simple grids that make it easy for a child to arrange the photos on a phone and then add narration. Use it to make scrapbooks and picture books or, for that matter, flash cards and slide shows. (Ages 6-10, Tapikeo.com)

2. Fool with photos. ColorSplash adds color to photographs when you brush the screen with your fingers. Zoom in or out by pinching the screen. An undo button encourages experiments. (Ages 2-8, pocketpixels.com) Montgomery Parents I April 2017

iLuv Drawing Animals provides step-bystep instructions for sketching recognizable animals. Forty lessons teach kids to draw everything from cats and dogs to penguins and pandas. The app also provides tools for coloring the drawings. (Ages 4-10, www.learnwithfunapps.com)

4. Doodle with light. Glow Doodle transforms ordinary drawings into spectacular neon creations at the press of a “Glow button.” (Ages 3-8, 99 cents, 2-8, I-Phone or I-Pad)

5. Conquer the keyboard. Jellybean Tunes, an app created by the parents of a young child, introduces musical basics with big, colorful notes. Kids can play the songs in the program or make up their own compositions. (Ages 3-8, www. jellybeantunes.com)

Story Patch unleashes imagination by giving children over 800 images to be incorporated into their stories. Kids can start with prompts—a trip to the zoo, a birthday party—but the tools also make it easy for them to take dictation from their own imaginations. (Ages 4-10, www.storypatch.com)

7. Fingerpaint with music. MScribble is a mash-up of fingerpainting and music composition. The program provides a musical baseline and your child 64

creates the melody just by moving her finger across the screen. (Any age)

8. Toon up. Toontastic is a clever animation program developed with help from educators at Stanford. Kids choose a setting and populate it with characters that actually move the way the child wants them to move. A microphone allows kids to add narration. (Ages 4-10, www.Launchpadtoys.com)

9. Draw what you like. The Drawing Pad app is as open-ended as a sketchbook. In the “desk drawer” at the bottom of the screen, kids have access to a wide variety of “art supplies” including pencils, markers, paintbrushes, roller pens, erasers and stickers. What they make from all of these tools is entirely up to them. (All ages, www.Drawingpadapp.com)

10. Drum for fun. Drum Circle Kids lets little kids experiment with a variety of drums including an American Trap Set, the Caribbean Steel Pan, Chinese Drums, Cuban Conga and the West African Djembe. By tapping on the screen, your child can join the onscreen drummers or create her own beats. (Ages 2-5, www. Spyedesign.com) Cool as these apps may be, they shouldn’t take the place of more traditional opportunities for creative exploration. Even the most tech-savvy kids should have easy access to fingerpaints and clay, big pads of blank paper and homemade instruments, props that make them want to star in their own stories and music that makes them want to jump up and dance.

Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2017, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

www.montgomeryparents.com

ger

ve. .

PARENTS_Yep.qxp_Layout 1 12/14/16 11:23 AM Page 1

Yep. Life is good here. OUR HOME IS ACTIVE, OFTEN NOISY BUT ALWAYS SPECIAL. WE WOULDN’T HAVE IT ANY OTHER WAY – OR LIVE ANYWHERE ELSE. WE BUILT A BEAUTIFUL HOUSE OUT HERE, AND NOW WE'RE FILLING IT WITH MEMORIES. GOOD MEMORIES FROM A GOOD LIFE.

s, m l

NEW PARK IS A MASTER-PLANNED FAMILY COMMUNITY IN EAST MONTGOMERY • ADJACENT TO THE NEWEST ELEMENTARY, MIDDLE AND HIGH SCHOOLS • HOME TO THE CITY’S NEWEST YMCA • NEIGHBORHOOD SWIMMING POOL • DOZENS OF FLOOR PLANS TO CHOOSE FROM • YOUR CHOICE OF THE RIVER REGION’S BEST HOME BUILDERS 334.215.9215 | newparkliving.com | 9430 Park Crossing Between Ray Thorington Road and Taylor Road

an, est n, s w.

ke nd p

en aAll

Now Taking Reservations

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Co ho yo yo du

Wh int sh da as nit pa

F Choosing a daycare is one of the most important decisions parents make for their infants and toddlers. Your child will spend most of his waking hours there, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s important to find an environment that is safe and nurturing physically, emotionally, and academically. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve worked in the field of early childhood education for decades. Here are my top 8 things to look for when searching for the right childcare.

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

Dr pla gre oti no an the ge

As ren

Convenience

Consider the following: Do the program’s hours work for your schedule? Is it near your home or office? How long will it take you to get there if there’s an emergency during the day?

Cost

While it’s crucial to find a program that fits into your budget, that doesn’t mean you should scrimp on quality. If your dream daycare is too costly for you to manage, ask about scholarships. Many communities have programs to help working parents with the cost of childcare.

First impressions

Drop in unannounced to get a feel for a place. Pay close attention to how you’re greeted and what’s going on. Is it chaotic? Did you walk right in without anyone noticing you? Do the children look happy and occupied? Notice the teachers: Are they warm and caring? Do they seem to genuinely like children?

Recommendations

Ask other parents and caregivers who currently use the daycare as well as former

families about their experiences there. Also check with the local Better Business Bureau. A quick online search never hurts, either.

Cleanliness

Sure, with dozens of small children, it’s tough to keep a building clean, but it is imperative to keep everyone healthy. Do you notice any foul smells? Teachers should wear gloves for diapering and wash their hands before and after. Procedures should be in place for sanitizing all equipment and toys throughout the day.

Ratios

In Alabama, one teacher is allowed by law to be alone with eight two-year-olds. The National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) recommends a one-to-six ratio for the same age group. The lower the ratio, the more attention your child will receive. The ratio varies depending on the age group. If your daycare is NAEYC-approved, find out the appropriate NAEYC ratio for your child’s age. Check the website of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to learn your state’s health and safety recommendations.

Turnover

Once you’ve found the perfect teacher, you want some assurance that she won’t leave two weeks after you enroll your child. Find out the program’s turnover rate. If teachers frequently leave, they may be unhappy about the way they’re treated or about something happening at the school, which is cause for concern.

Policies and procedures

Confirm the school is up to date on licensing standards by contacting your local department of children and families. Ask to see the school’s policy and procedure handbooks. They should have plans in place for dealing with a wide variety of issues from lice outbreaks to power outages. Ask about the center’s safety procedures. Choosing a daycare doesn’t have to be overwhelming. In the end, trust your instincts. mp

Rachael Moshman is a full time freelance writer and has been published in a wide assortment of parenting and family magazines and websites across the U.S. and abroad.

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

We Ce

502 Ho Me Cu Co ww

242 Ho Me Cu Co we ww

36013 Macon East Academy ad on page 7

15396 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, AL Hours: 7:45 - 2:40 Ages: 3, 4, and 5 years Meals: Hot Curriculum: High Reach/Reading & Math for 3 & 4 year, McGraw Hill Reading & Math for Kindergarten. Contact: Glynn Lot, Headmaster, (334) 277.6566 info@maconeast.net www.maconeast.net

305 Ho yea Re Cu Co

36016 New Horizons Preschool

213 S. Madison Terrace Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - midnight Ages: 6 wks - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Little Peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Workshop, Hooked on Phonics, Wee Learn. Contact: Cammie Thomas, Director, (334) 834.9403

36043 Hooper Childcare/Early Learning Center ad on page 35

360 Fisher Road Hope Hull , AL Hours: 6:45 -5:45 Ages: 6 wks. - 4 years Meals: Hot Curriculum: A Beka. Contact: Lisa Wheat, Director, (334) 288.2770 www.hooperacademy.org

36054 The Learning Tree Child Development Center ad on page 42

288 Deatsville Hwy. Millbrook, AL Hours: 6:30-6 Ages: 6 wks-12 years Meals: Hot Curriculum: Full Educational Program Contact: Bonnie Wallace, Director, (334) 285.1188 www.learningtreecenters.com

Poo Bear Academy

2441 Main Street Millbrook, AL Hours: 6:30 - 6 Ages: 6 wks-12 years Meals: Hot Contact: Teresa Willams, Director, (334) 285.4462

36066 Little Lights Creative Learning Center ad on page 24

640 Malwest Drive Prattville, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 12 yrs. Meals: Two snacks and lunch provided Curriculum: Kindergarten preparation Contact: Kristie Skipper, Director, (334) 356.0422 littlelightsclc@gmail.com Montgomery Parents I April 2017

102 Ho 6y Cu Co mo ww

The Learning Tree Child Development Center ad on page 42

1816 Glynwood Drive Prattville, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Full educational program. Contact: Caryn Marshall, (334) 365.1451

East Memorial Christian Daycare

1320 Old Ridge Road Prattville , AL Hours: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - K4 Meals: Snacks offered and Hot meal Religious Affiliation: Southern Baptist. Curriculum: Abeka Contact: Lisa Montgomery, Director, (334) 358-4110 www.emcawildcats.org

Journey Preschool

435 Sheila Blvd. Prattville, AL Hours: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 4 years Meals: Hot Religious Affiliation: Christian/Non-Denominational Contact: Allison Hollis, Director, (334) 365.4936 www.myjourneychurch.com

36067

Tri

First Presbyterian Church Kindergarten ad on page 28

211 S. Chestnut St. Prattville , AL Hours: 8 - 11:45 Ages: K3-K5 Meals: Children bring snacks. Curriculum: Modified Abeka Contact: Julie Cavnar, Director, (334) 491.3411 www.fpkprattville.com

First Baptist Church Preschool & Kindergarten ad on page 71

138 S. Washington St. Prattville, AL Hours: 8:15 - 11:45 Ages: 3 yrs - 5 yrs. Curriculum: Scott Foresman Language Arts Curriculum, Harcourt Math, Wee Learn by Lifeway, The Wright Skills Phonics Program and Sobut & Bogan. Contact: Jamie Robison, Director, (334) 361.9481 jamie.robison@fbcprattville.org www.fbcprattville.org

36092

Kindercare Learning Center

701 Sheila Blvd. Prattville, AL Hours: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Pre-School at Kindercare and Welcome to Learning Contact: Charlotte Hardy, Director, (334) 365.0470 chardy@klcorp.com www.kindercare.com

Prattville Learning Academy

949 Wright Street Prattville, AL Hours: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot Contact: Mary Ann McKinnley, (334) 361.2223

Kiddie Kollege

202 Old Montgomery Hwy. Wetumpka, AL Hours: 6:45 a.m. - 5:45 p.m. Ages: 18 mths.-10 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Abeka Contact: Hazel Downs, Director, (334) 567.4236

Sesame St. Clubhouse Preschool

815 Wilson St. Wetumpka , AL Hours: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 18 mths. - 9 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Full educational program. Contact: Chad Baker, Director, (334) 567.2715

www.montgomeryparents.com

172 Ho Me buc Cu Sa Co lco

Bry

364 Ho Me Re Co

378 Ho Me Cu Ph Co

Ev ad

397 Ho Me Re Cu Co eao

he an. 1 rg

Wetumpka Preschool Child Development Center & Periscope

502 North Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL Hours: 6:15 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks-12 years Meals: Hot Curriculum: High Reach Learning, Creative Contact: Cecelia Hatcher, Director, (334) 567.4689 www.gatewaypreschool.weebly.com

36093 Wee Ones Preschool & Beyond

2425 Dozier Road Wetumpka, AL Hours: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Breakfast, hot lunch & afternoon snack Curriculum: Carol’s Curriculum Contact: Elans Hayslip, Director, (334) 478.4938 weeonespreschoolllc@gmail.com www.weeonespreschool.net

36104 Children’s Learning Center

305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 5 years Meals: Hot lunch and 2 snacks Religious Affiliation: Christian Curriculum: Pinnacle Faith Based Contact: Sheila Wilson, Director, (334) 834.7475

Montessori Academy

1025 South Hull Street Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 12 months 6 years Curriculum: Montessori Contact: Erin Kilgore, Director, (334) 262.8685 montgomery.montessori@gmail.com www.montessorimontgomery.com

Trinity Church Preschool

1728 South Hull Street Montgomery, AL Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 3 p.m. Ages: 4 mths - K5 Meals: Snack provided for one year olds, snack bucket for older children. Curriculum: Abeka, Handwriting without Tears, Saxon Hands on Math. Contact: Lil Conoly, Interim Director, (334) 262.8830 lconoly@trinitypca.org www.trinitypca.org

36105 Bryant’s Child Development Center

3645 Norman Bridge Road. Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 12 yrs Meals: Hot Religious Affiliation: Christian/Baptist. Contact: Carrie Moore, Director, (334) 284.4542

Sunnyside Child Care Center

3784 Norman Bridge Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 5:45 a.m. - 7 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 12 yrs Meals: Hot Curriculum: Little People’s Workshop, Hooked on Phonics and Wee Learn Contact: Tracy Hill, Directory, (334) 612.0903

36106 Evangel Christian Preschool ad on page 38

3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 4 yrs Meals: Catered Religious Affiliation: Assemblies of God Curriculum: Abeka Contact: Rosemary Hean, Director, (334) 273.0730 eaoffice@aol.com www.ecalions.org

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Learning Tree Child Development Center ad on page 42

4120 Carmichael Road. Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 12 mths. - 12 yrs Meals: Hot Curriculum: full educational program Contact: Ruby Davis, Director, (334) 271.4733 www.learningtree.com

Montessori at Mulberry ad on page 17

2034 Clubview Street Montgomery , AL Hours: 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 12 mths.Kindergarten Curriculum: Each child is encouraged to reach his/ her full potential in all areas of life. The specific needs of individual children are met at each developmental level. Our curriculum, which is challenging, interdisciplinary and real world related, provides a strong academic bridge to elementary school. Contact: Terri Jackson, Director, (334) 265.7733 or (334)315.3848 casadebambini@aol.com www.montessoriatmulberry.com

Vaughn Park Church of Christ Mother’s Day Out & Preschool ad on page 27

3800 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Tuesday/Wednesday/ Thursday Ages: 6 wks. - 4 yrs. Meals: Snack provided Curriculum: Varies by age Contact: Callie McDermott, Director, (334) 272.2665 www.vaughnparkkids.com

Bethany Child Development Center 714 Cedar Street Montgomery, AL

Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 6 yrs Meals: Hot Religious affiliation: Seventh Day Adventist. Curriculum: Child’s World Contact: Kim Griggs, Director, (334) 265.5521 bethanycdeagles@gmail.com

Cloverdale Preschool Academy

608 E. Fairview Ave. Montgomery, AL Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 4 yrs Meals: Hot Religious Affiliation: Christian/ Baptist Curriculum: Abeka Contact: Sharman Nall, Director, (334) 265.7488 snall@cloverdalebaptist.net www.cloverdalepreschoolacademy.com

First UMC Early Childhood Development

2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL Hours: 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 5 yrs Meals: Hot Curriculum: Child centered, Christian using spiritual enrichment learning activities to insure success. Contact: Christi Davis, Director, (334) 834.8964 cdavis@fumcmontgomery.org www.fumcmontgomery.org

First United Methodist First School

2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL Hours: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Ages: 2 mths to Kindergarten Curriculum: Challenging age appropriate Contact: Beth Mantooth, Director, (334) 481.0413 jcoblentz@fumcmontomery.org www.fumcmontgomery.org

Heritage Baptist Child Development Center 1849 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks - 5 yrs Meals: Hot Contact: Tamira Quattlebaum, Director, (334) 279.0643 www.heritagecdc.net

Second Mom’s Childcare and Learning Center

2703 Highland Avenue Montgomery, AL Hours: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 14 yrs. Meals: Hot breakfast, lunch and two snacks Curriculum: Abeka and Baby Can Read Contact: Sandra Hill, Director, (334) 832.9403

346 Ho Me Cu Co ww

Second Mom’s Childcare Center, Too

2726 Highland Ave. Montgomery, AL Hours: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 2.5 yrs - 14 yrs Meals: Hot breakfast, hot lunch and two snacks Curriculum: Abeka Contact: Sandra Hill, Director, (334) 832.1876

Zelia Stephens Early Childhood Center

1100 Tuscaloosa Street Montgomery, AL Hours: 8 a.m. - 5:15 p.m. Ages: 3 yrs. - 7 yrs. Meals: Hot, Gourmet Food Services Curriculum: Saxon Contact: Sandra Hinton, Director, (334) 229.4470 shinton@alasu.edu

36108 Central Alabama OIC, Inc.

2035 Mobile Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:50 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 5 wks. to school age Meals: Breakfast, lunch and snack Contact: Geraldine Hill, Director, (334) 265.1594 www.centralalabamaoic.com

Hansel and Gretal Preschool

3010 Mobile Hwy. Montgomery, AL Hours: 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 8 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Creative Contact: Rita Faye Green, Director, (334) 269.5644

Kamp-A-Demics

2308 Dillard St. Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 2 mths - 12 yrs. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack. Curriculum: Pre-K, play based, and Creative Contact: Vivia Gadson, (334) 221.3101

Kids First Day Care Center

1955 Walnut Street Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Preschool Contact: Rhonda Thompson, Contact, (334) 269.4657

121 Ho Me Cu Co cee

125 Ho Yea Cu Co (33 sou

9A Ho Me sna Cu Co cov

340 Ho Me Cu Co ww

360 Ho Me Cu Co sta

Ea Mo

450 Ho Me Cu Co ww

281 Ho 3:1 and Co (33

267 Ho Mo Me Cu Co ww Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

New Generation Preschool

3461 Old Selma Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 15 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Abeka Contact: Agnes Attia, Director, (334) 263.9660 www.newgenerationpreschool.com

Peppermint Hill Learning Center

1217 Oak Street Montgomery, AL Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 mth. - 6 yrs. Meals: Catered, 2 snacks and 1 hot meal. Curriculum: Creative Contact: Cynthia Mull, Director, (334) 230.9650 ceeb57@aol.com

Southlawn Child Care Center

125 Greenleaf Drive Montgomery, AL Hours: 5:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: Infant - 15 Years Meals: Hot Curriculum: Creative Contact: Elizabeth Sankey, Director, (334) 286.1056 or (334) 286.9156 southlawn@aol.com

36109 Covenant Kids Child Development Center

9 Arden Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 5 years. Meals: Morning snack, Hot lunch and afternoon snack provided. Curriculum: Pinnacle Faith-based Contact: Kim Herbert, Director, (334) 356.9110 covenantkidsmontgomery@gmail.com

East YMCA Kindergarten & Child Care

3407 Pelzer Ave. Montgomery, AL Hours: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 5 yrs. Meals: Catered Curriculum: High Reach Contact: Ruth Davis, Director, (334) 272.3390 www.ymcamontgomery.org

Eastern Hills Child Care

3604 Pleasant Ridge Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 7 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 4 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Abeka Contact: Stacy Royal, Director, (334) 277.5424 stacy@ehbconline.com www.easternhillsonline.com

Eastmont Baptist Church Kindergarten & Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Out

4505 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL Hours: 9:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - K5 Meals: Brown bag Curriculum: Abeka Contact: Sherry Wallace, Director, (334) 244.9324 www.eastmont.org

36110 Resurrection Early Child Care

2815 Forbes Drive Montgomery, AL Hours: 7:45 a.m. - 3:10 p.m. (extended care from 3:10 - 5:30) Ages: 4 - 5 yrs. Meals: Hot breakfast and lunch. Contact: Cassandra Copeland, Director, (334) 265.4615

36111 Whitfield Kindergarten

2673 Fisk Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 7:30 a.m. 4:15 and 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. for Mothers Dat Out Ages: 4 mths. - 5 yrs. Meals: Brown bag Curriculum: Combined Contact: Jane Ruud, Director, (334) 281.2470 www.whitfieldumc.org

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

JAAD’s Child Care & Development Center

4002 St. Louis Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 6 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 4 wks. - 15 yrs. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and snack Established 1996. Curriculum: Self Developed. Contact: Theresa Hardwick, Director, (334) 284.9055 jaads_inc@yahoo.com www.jaadschildcare.com

Lighthouse Christian Academy

3570 Bell Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 8 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Ages: K2 - 10th Meals: Catered Curriculum: Abeka Contact: Gary Mohney, Principle, (334) 271.4200 info@lcapirates.com www.lcapirates.com

36116 The Learning Tree Child Development Center

36117

ad on page 42

3335 Woodley Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Full educational program. Contact: Malkia Mathews, Director, (334) 284.5560

St. James School Kindergarten ad on page 1

6000 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 7:45 a.m. - 12 p.m. Full day option available. Ages: K3 - K4 Meals: Catered Curriculum: Pre-K3, Pre-K4 and Kindergarten use an integrated approach with literature, art, music and science to introduce readiness skills with hands -on activities. Contact: Jim Terry, Principle, (334) 277.8033 www.stjweb.org

Aldersgate Weekday Children’s Ministries 6610 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. Pre K4 Meals: Hot

AUM Early Childhood Center ad on page 8

Curriculum: Creative Curriculum, Letter of the Week, Handwriting without Tears. We teach thematic units using social studies, science, math, language, art and music through a hand-on program. Contact: Lana Ward and Katie Blair, Co-Directors, (334) 277.0880 www.aldersgateumc.org

Century 2000

4714 Virginia Loop Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 5 a.m. - Midnight Ages: 3 wks. - 15 yrs. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and snack. (for those staying late, dinner and snack offered) Curriculum: A Beka. Contact: Mrs. Deramus, Director, (334) 288.7740 www.century2000daycare.com

7051 Senator’s Drive Montgomery, AL Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Monday thru Friday Ages: 3 yrs. - 5 yrs. (potty trained) Meals: Hot meal or sack lunch from home, two snacks Curriculum: Project based, Research driven, and thematic. Contact: Lisa Highfield, Director, (334) 244-3441 lhigh@aum.edu www.education.aum.edu under Early Childhood Center tab

Frazer Christian Kindergarten ad on page 36

6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL Hours: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Ages: 3 yrs. - K4 & K5, Kindergarten. 6 wks. - 2 yrs., Mother’s Morning Out. Meals: Snack bucket/ Brown bag for extended day. Curriculum: Abeka Contact: Jill Struthers, Director, (334) 279.0271 www.frazerkindergarten.com

Th De ad

176 Ho Me Cu Co

Le ad

232 Ho Me Cu Co

M Ch ad

213 Ho Ag Cu Co

“M Da ad

Ha Ho Cu ate Co

St ad

904 Ho ten Cu act Co ww

Ta Ki ad

168 Ho day Mo Mo bag Cu Co ww

Va ad

879 Ch Ho Me Cu Ea Em and Co vrp

569 Ho Me Cu Co Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

& ng ed

The Learning Tree Child Development Center ad on page 42

1767 Halcyon Blvd. Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m.- 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Full Educational Program Contact: Darlene Tucker, Director, (334) 272.3188

Legacy Early Learning Center ad on page 22

2323 Bell Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 5:45 Ages: 6 wks. - 4 yrs. Meals: Lunches and two snacks provided Curriculum: Christian based Pre-school program Contact: Tara Harris, Director, (334) 649.4601

Memorial Presbyterian Church Children’s Center ad on page 40

2130 Bell Road Montgomery, AL Hours: Full day and half day offered. Ages: 2 mths. - 4 yrs. Meals: Brown Bag Curriculum: Thematic Units Contact: Melissa Cameron, Director, (334) 274.1018

“Mrs. Sandy’s House” Home Daycare ad on page 90

Halcyon South off of Taylor Road. Montgomery, AL Hours: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: Newborn-4 yrs. Curriculum: Hands-on activities and age appropriate readiness skills. Contact: Sandy McGaughey, (334) 329.5653

St. James UMC Preschool ad on page 9

9045 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Ages: 8 mths. - Kindergarten Meals: Brown bag, snack provided. Curriculum: Teacher developed including hands-on activities and age appropriate readiness skills. Contact: Leah Winn, Director, (334) 277.3412 www.sjlife.com under ministries.

Taylor Road Christian Kindergarten & Mom’s Day Out ad on page 79

1685 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL Hours: Kindergarten: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Three or four day options. Mother’s Day Out: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m., Monday - Thursday. Ages: Kindergarten: K3-K5. Mother’s Day Out: 6 wks. - 36 mths. Meals: Brown bag Curriculum: Abeka & Wee Care for MDO Contact: Holly Nichols, Director, (334) 271.0845 www.taylorroad.org (link to preschool)

Vaughn Road Preschool ad on page 33

8790 Vaughn Road (at Immanuel Presbyterian Church) Montgomery, AL Hours: 6 a.m. - 6 yrs. Ages: 6 wks. - 6 yrs. Meals: Lunch and 2 snacks provided. Curriculum: Creative Curriculum; linked to the WV Early Learning Standards Framework in Social and Emotional Development, the Arts, Physical Health and Development, Mathematics and Science. Contact: Barbara Anderson, Director, (334) 277.4815 vrpreschool@gmail.com

Bo Peep Christian Child Development School

5690 Atlanta Hwy Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 12 yrs. Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Abeka Contact: Brooke Woodfin, Director, (334) 271.1942

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

GracePointe Child Development Center

1565 Ray Thorington Road Montgomery, AL Hours: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Ages: Birth - 4 yrs. Meals: Snack provided, bring lunch. Curriculum: Play based, Beyond Centers and Circle Time Contact: Sharon Kilpatrick, Director, (334) 799.8390 gracepointecdc@gmail.com www.grace-pointe.com

Kiddie Home Daycare at Mitylene Forest

618 Silver Moon Court Montgomery, AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Breakfast, lunch and snacks. Curriculum: combined Contact: Leeza Beaulieu, Director, (334) 221.4446 lizamay1972@yahoo.com

Kindercare Learning Center

6955 Halcyon Park Dr. Montgomery , AL Hours: 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 12 yrs. Meals: Hot Curriculum: Early Foundations Contact: Courtney Tate, Director, (334) 270.5955 ctate@klcorp.com www.kindercare.com

Little Explorers Learning Center

181 Eastern Blvd. Montgomery, AL Hours: 7 a.m. - 6 p.m. Ages: 6 wks. - 5 yrs. Meals: Lunch and snack for toddler and preschool Curriculum: Bible based Contact: Jennifer Mitchell, Director, (334) 324.7103 www.riversedgechurch.us

Montessori at Hampstead

5251 Hampstead High Street, Unit #111 Montgomery, AL Hours: 7:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m. Ages: 18 mths. - 6th grade. Meals: Hot meals available or brown bag. Curriculum: Montessori. Testing Requirements: Interview, Ed Psych Test, Transcripts for students 6 and up. Contact: Dr. Josh Whitman, Head of School, (334) 356.1969 info@montessoriathampstead.org www.mshmontgomery.org

Vaughn Forest Preschool and Kindergarten 8660 Vaughn Road Montgomery , AL Hours: 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Ages: 18 mths. - 5 yrs. Meals: Brown bag and snack Curriculum: High Reach and Letter People Contact: Mary James Newsom, Director, (334) 277.0362 www.vaughnforest.com under Ministries

YMCA Goodtimes Before and After School Programs

2325 Mill Ridge Drive Montgomery, AL Contact: Contact YMCA Goodtimes Center for additional information: (334) 279.8666 www.ymcamontgomery.org

After School Care at these Locations:

Baldwin Jr. High, Bear Exploration Center, Blount Elem., Brewbaker Elem., Carr Middle School, Catholic Middle, Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center, Crump Elem., Dannelly Elem., Dozier Elem., East YMCA, Fitzpatrick Elem., Flowers Elem., Floyd Elem., Forest Ave. Elem., Garrett Elem., Halcyon Elem., Holy Spirit, Macmillan at McKee Elementary, Morningview Elem., Pintlala Elem., St. Bedeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Vaughn Rd. Elem., Wares Ferry Elem. and Wilson Elementary. Snack included; Hours 3-6pm, Afternoon snack. Multiple child Discount; Please call for rates and fees.

Before School Care at these location:

Forest Ave. Elem. 7 a.m.- 8:15 a.m. McMillian 7 a.m.- 8:20 a.m. Bear Elem. 7 a.m.- 8:30 a.m. Wares Ferry Elem. 6:45 a.m. -.8 a.m., Blount Elem. 6:45-8 a.m., Halcyon Elem. 6:45 a.m. -8 a.m. Garrett Elem. 6:45 a.m. -8 a.m., Floyd Elem. 7 a.m.- 8 a.m., Brewbaker Elem. 6:30 a.m.-8 a.m., Wilson Elem. 6:45 a.m.-8 a.m. Please call for rates and fees mp Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

Nin Ida pro Co loc ran

ery

90 om

yrs.

Wetumpka Scouts Assist with Arbor Day Seedling Giveaway

Boy Scouts from Troop 13 in Wetumpka recently assisted with Montgomery’s Ninth Annual Arbor Day seedling giveaway. The event was held on February 25 at Ida Belle Young Park by Montgomery Trees, a nonprofit organization devoted to promoting urban forestry. The event was also sponsored by the Alabama Forestry Commission. Scouts and other volunteers distributed hundreds of free seedlings to local residents. The seven Scouts who participated will receive service credit toward rank advancements and merit badges. Star Scout Cameron Little was also named Volunteer of the Day by Montgomery Trees. “This is the best service project we’ve ever done,” said Little. For more information about Arbor Day or urban forestry, you can visit www. MontgomeryTrees.org or www.forestry.state.al.us.

Family Karate Students Participate in Weapon Self Defense/Awareness Classes

als:

103

Family Karate Center instructors hosted a clinic in March that taught participants what to do if approached by someone with a weapon. Master Carole Smith works closely with the Montgomery sheriff’s and police departments to be able to answer any questions her students may have about how and when they can defend themselves. Classes for 2- to- 4-year-olds are also taught daily with an emphasis on child abduction prevention.

oy ,

urs

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Toys That Build a Balancing Act

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Balance is key to reaching many of a child’s developmental milestones. Raising their head, pulling up to a stand, taking their first steps are all achieved when a baby finds and hones their balance. It’s marvelous how our bodies take in a variety of stimulus while making a multitude of minute adjustments, all to achieve a physical equilibrium. As kids grow and change, their bodies benefit from constant new challenges that calibrate and improve their balancing abilities. The following recommendations are ideal for encouraging and building a child’s sense of balance as they grow.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Ice Cream Balance Game

Teeter Popper (Fat Brain)

Offering a versatile range of play options, the Teeter Popper from Fat Brain encourages all kinds of balancing moves for the kid in control. Cupped in the curve for seated maneuvers, young athletes can wobble and spin their way to better balance. Improved coordination follows when kids take a stand on the edges, twisting and tilting the Teeter Popper. Especially cool for kids who love the satisfaction of popping bubble wrap, the suction cups peppered around the bottom of this gadget generate rapid-fire pops as they engage and disengage with a hard floor. An irresistible sensory challenge for kids, the multiple moves they create with the Teeter Popper are all part of building better balance.

A delicately perched desert stand is ready to host the sweet challenge of players vying to build the best confection without knocking the whole tray over. While it can be played solo as a balance building challenge, this game is most rewarding when multiple dessert chefs take turns using tongs to select and place the colorful cookies, cones and ice cream scoops on the tower without disturbing other pieces. As players strive to build a balanced diet of ice cream, the risk increases with each play that the tasty tower will topple. Supporting the development of steady hands and cool coordination, only the best balancing act will finish dessert first.

Gonge River Stones

Kids Balance Cushion, Jr.

Leaping from stone to stone at the creek’s edge is an outdoor rite of passage for many youth. But when the pebbled steps of the waterways aren’t available, Gonge’s River Stones replicate the experience in both indoor and dry land settings. Placed in a path of their own design this set of six steps offer varying degrees of steepness and difficulty for young adventurers making their way from stone to stone. The sturdy rubber marked bases offer stability as well as a measure of protection for floor surfaces. As children build their confidence and improve coordination, they can create new balancing challenges as they reconfigure their high and dry paths across imaginary rivers (or the lava floor).

Parents of kids with ‘the wiggles’ have welcomed the Kids Balance Cushion as a fun solution to help keep little ones centered. Directing their energy into the multiple and minute body adjustments needed to maintain their balance, this cushion’s subtle design keeps kids using their extra energy to stay centered. Maximizing ‘active sitting’ balance cushions have been a positive tool to cultivate better posture and improve physical focus for more restless children. The surface nubbins provide tactile stimulation as well as gripping action to keep sitters centered. With a deceptively simple structure the Gaiam balance cushion offers a complex set of rewarding outcomes for kids as they channel their surplus energy into staying seated.

(Little Treasures)

(Gaiam)

(Gonge)

Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

ill

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

tha

ne ne Co fam

pro mo we

sin op

an Re

yo wo ma

sup sus tak life

en wa co

“Sc he oth

thin in a across North America. “Sometimes all you need to do is talk about it, but there may be someone in the group who has gone through something similar.”

Parenting is hard. Parenting kids without a partner to help can be grueling. From finding the right support to setting realistic limits, you can feel more in control and less overwhelmed. Here’s how:

Manage your finances. Many hardworking single parents struggle to make ends meet. If you qualify, numerous non-profit and government organizations are available to provide assistance. Also, eliminate unnecessary bills or contact the company to see if refinancing is an option. “One of the worst things to do is to let the kids think that the only thing that has changed is that mommy or daddy has left,” Gallinati says. “Explain that this is now a one-income family and cuts need to be made.”

Tap emotional support. A positive support network is instrumental for stress management. If you don’t have access to close family or friends, seek support from single parent or mothers’ groups. “We have discussion groups that discuss topics pertinent to single parents,” says Janet Gallinati, president of Parents without Partners, an international non-profit organization, with chapters Montgomery Parents I April 2017

Set limits. Say no to requests that will cause undue strain on your wallet or your time. Also, resist the urge to say yes to every activity your child wants to participate in. Make reasonable choices according to what works with your hours and available support. 78

www.montgomeryparents.com

ge pla co

Inv

co alis

ma yo

Fre nec wit ww

al-

our y rd-

Seek flexibility. If possible, negotiate work hours or find a job that better accommodates you and your children’s needs. “Finding flexible work is realistic if you are clear about what you need, how you can be successful and matching that with the business need,” says Laura Wildman, a staffing consultant with Mom Corps, which helps match professionals who are raising young families with companies that offer flexible work conditions. As president of Mothers & More, a national organization that provides community, support and programming for mothers, single mom Jill Gaikowski, says she works in the evenings and on the weekends when she doesn’t have her child. “I’m happy to make the trade-off because before becoming a single parent, I was a stay-at-home mom. I am lucky to have this option,” Gaikowski says. Resolve guilt. Are you haunted by feelings of guilt, inadequacy and resentment in the midst of juggling parenthood and a career? Realize that you are doing your best and focus on remaining optimistic. “You will get that important email that comes while you are at your kids’ game and you will get that call from school when you are working, but your mindset and flexibility can make it all work,” Wildman says.

Ask for help. Without adequate emotional and practical support,caregiving can deplete your energy making you more susceptible to illness and depression. Utilize available resources and take advantage of any help that is offered by family and friends, says life coach Kristin Dunn, owner of From the Ground Up Life Coaching. Also, find a reliable sitter, trade babysitting with a friend or check out area drop-in day cares.

Commit to self-care. Engage in activities that nurture and energize you like meditation, reading or exercise, even if that means waking up a few minutes earlier than usual. Use your lunch hour to connect with a friend. “Don’t underestimate the power of human touch,” Dunn says. “Schedule a massage or a pedicure. Human contact is really helpful in releasing bottled up energy and emotion that may not otherwise have an outlet for release.” Plan ahead. Include personal time on the calendar. “Do something for yourself once a week. You will see how it makes you better in all other areas of your life,” Gaikowski says. Integrate fun. Spend time with your kids cooking meals together, playing board games, bike-riding or watching a movie. Also plan playdates or outings with other families to build a sense of community.

Involve your kids. Assign age-appropriate responsibilities which helps children grow more self-confident and independent. “If you over-function by doing things for your children they could be doing for themselves, you’re teaching them to have unrealistic expectations for themselves and others,” Dunn says. Although single parenting isn’t easy, remember that when you manage your stress and focus on creating a stable, loving home for your kids, you’ll not only survive, you and your family will thrive. mp Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines, is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life, which helps moms connect with their tribe, while creating a social life they love. To connect with her, visit www.christamelnykhines.com.

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

FamilyCalendar Saturday, April 1

12th Annual Fountain City Arts Festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Pratt Park in Prattville. This annual event features fine arts and crafts by artists from throughout Alabama and the Southeast, music by the Prattville Pops, Community Chorus and local and regional musicians, performances by the Way Off Broadway Theatre and lots of hands-on projects for festival guests. Delicious festival foods and children’s play areas for all ages. For an artist or vendor application or for more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov. This festival is FREE and open to the public. Saint James United Methodist Church Benefit Auction for Youth and Children’s Missions 4-6 p.m. 9045 Vaughn Road (corner of Vaughn and Ryan). No cost for admission to the auction. Visitors may preview items on March 31 from 5 to 7 p.m. or online at sjlifeauction.com. Featured items include antique furniture from Pickwick Antiques, original artwork, jewelry, salon and boutique certificates, gift cards from local businesses and vacation home rentals.

Race Day Registration: Half Marathon - $75; 5K - $25; and Kids’ Fun Run - $20 (Registration for this event available until 8:30 a.m.) For more information or to register online, visit centerpointhalf.com. Sylvan Learning Center Offers ACT Cram Course 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at 2640 Zelda Road. Reading, grammar, writing, social studies, science, and math are taught by teachers who specialize in preparing students for the ACT. Students are also given test tips and insight on how the ACT is structured. Cost is $35. Call (334) 262-0043 or e-mail cd@montgomerysylvan. com to enroll. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Today’s project is Build a Bunny Basket, perfect for keeping Easter

Michael’s Kids Club -- Also April 8, 15, 22 & 29 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies included. Ages 3 and up. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. April 1 is Sprout Easter Chica; April 8 is Easter Tissue Paper Art; April 15 is Pom Pom Bunny; April 22 is Earth Day projects; and April 29 is Spring 3D Canvas. For more info, visit www.michaels. com/.

Sunday, April 2

Montgomery Chorale and Faulkner University Chorus Present Peace & Harmony Concert 3 p.m. Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts, 251 Montgomery St. Featuring Ralph Vaughn Williams’ Dona Nobis Pacem. General admission $25; senior/military $20; student $10. For more info, call (334) 265-3737. First Sundays at One -- Also May 7

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

U.S. Kids Golf Montgomery Local Tour Wynlakes Country Club, Montgomery. U.S. Kids Golf Local Tours provide boys and girls, ages 5 to 14, the opportunity to advance their golf experience in age-appropriate competition. At the Local Tour level, kids can gain their first exposure to competitive golf, earn Priority Status for Championship Events, meet new friends and learn valuable life lessons. Register for this event through March 27. For more info or to register, contact Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536, quincyleonard@leogolfacademy.com or visit www.uskidsgolf.com. Annual Autism Crawfish Boil Benefits Easter Seals Railyard Brewing Company, 12 West Jefferson Street, Montgomery. Noon-5 p.m. (early bug and VIP ticketholders get in at 11 a.m.) 4,000 pounds of all-youcan-eat crawfish and sides, cold beverages, live music featuring Federal Expression, BPM and Blackberry Breeze. Raffle prizes, crawfish souvenirs and fun. Get your tickets by stopping by our office at 2125 East South Boulevard, next to Baptist South! General admission tickets will be available at the door for $35; VIP tickets available until March 24. Kids ages 3-10 can purchase a kid-friendly meal and drink for $10 so even the smallest supporter can enjoy! Hampstead Hosts Taste & Tour Benefit for the Samaritan Counseling Center From 4-7 p.m., attendees will have the opportunity to tour more than 15 Hampstead homes, kitchens and gardens with food and drink tastings throughout. From 7-8 p.m., the tour will end at The Tipping Point in the Town Center with live music, prize drawings and drinks. $60 tickets will be available at the door. Event check-in is in the Town Center, where there is plenty of parking. Montgomery Babypalooza Baby & Maternity Expo 9 a.m.-1 p.m. MultiPlex at the Cramton Bowl. FREE to attend. Baptist Health will have representatives for all Women’s and Children’s services from both Baptist South and Baptist East. Nurses and staff will be available for private Q & A concerning Neonatal Care, Postpartum, Labor and Delivery, Pediatrics, and the Centering Pregnancy program. Childbirth specialists will be discussing the various childbirth classes taught in the Small Wonders program. For more info, visit http:// babypaloozatour.com/. Centerpoint Half Marathon And 5K Race 5:30-6:30 a.m. packet pickup at the Prattville YMCA

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

treats a short hop away. Once the basket is built, your child can decorate it with paint and stickers. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://workshops.homedepot.com/ workshops/kids-workshops. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Dauphin Island -- Through April 9 A world-premiere production by Jeffry Chastang. Suspicion and fascination dovetail when (en route from Detroit to a new job on Dauphin Island) Selwyn Tate interrupts the self-imposed isolation of Kendra in the Alabama woods — dramatizing the risks involved when two displaced souls intertwine. Developed by the Southern Writers’ Project. Recommended for ages 16 and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents Neil Simon’s Brighton Beach Memoirs -- Through April 9 This production, directed by Blair Dyson, will run Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $10 in advance and $12 at the door and can be purchased online at wobt.prattvilleal.gov, with Mastercard or Visa by phone at (334) 595-0854, or in person at the Special Events office Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes -Every Saturday Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Civil Rights Walking Tours -- Every Saturday and Sunday 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. start times. Tours start from The Village Gallery. Come explore Montgomery’s history walking from different historical sties and engage in profound moments from slavery, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. This tour highlights pioneers and unsung heroes who contributed to a new era. Cost: Adults - $10; 12 & under - $5; 4 & under FREE. Book your tour by calling (334) 595-9243.

mu chil enc are sca Sho or v

Tal 4-9 Cro leg Hun onl con 283 com

Spr and 4-5 spr Tro thro me info kad

1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the traveling exhibitions as well as the Museum’s Permanent Collection in these FREE docent-led tours the FIRST Sunday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.

Cap and The Ses 101 Ma tive cos to e

LOL: Live Out Love Community-Wide Marriage Classes -- Also April 9, 23 & 30 5-7 p.m. at Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Free. Build the marriage you’ve always dreamed of. Speakers are Pastors Lester and Janeese Spencer. Childcare provided. Register at sjlife.com. Discovery Sundays 2 p.m. monthly, with the program varying from presentations at Old Alabama Town to field trips around Montgomery. Join us today at the Ordeman House, 230 North Hull Street, for a look into the lives of enslaved African Americans serving the middle class owners of a Montgomery townhouse in the 1850s. Visit the slave quarters, kitchen, washhouse, carriage house/barn, and garden. Free to the public. Visit www. landmarksfoundation.com/ or call (334) 240-4500. How to Raise Spiritual Champions 11 am.-noon. Monthly on first Sundays. Frazer Atlanta Highway Campus, Fellowship Hall. Monthly coaching for Christian parenting. We’re gathering the best ideas from more than 12 top parenting studies and the best teachers and mentors from across Frazer to give you the tools you need to help your children grow into the best version of themselves in Christ. Everyone is welcome. Each session is a stand-alone so drop in whenever! For more info, e-mail susan@frazerumc.org.

Tuesday, April 4

Capri Theatre Presents 1984 7:30 p.m. More than 160 Art House Theatres in 48 states are participating in this National Screen Event of the film 1984 in order to bring awareness and support of the National Endownment for the Arts and its importance to our lives and culture. For more info, visit www. capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858. Old Alabama Town 2sdays -- Also April 11, 18 & 25 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Purchase one child’s admission to Old Alabama Town and another gets in FREE! Children

www.montgomeryparents.com

Sho The http stu sch

Mo Nig 7:0 visi

Cap Mo 7:3 opp alo for? Ass Coo Wil ww

The Sho Mu eve bak par

a 20;

r m ers ou f on

of rt orww.

FamilyCalendar must be accompanied by a guardian. Bring your children to tour our living history museum and experience an authentic 1850s Alabama spring. While you are here, participate in our scavenger hunt! Successful scavengers can pick up a prize at the Museum Gift Shop after the tour! For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or visit www.landmarksfoundation.com/. Tallassee Jazz Fest at Tallassee High School 4-9:30 p.m. 12 high schools, including ACA, Park Crossing, Tallassee and Wetumpka, and three colleges, including Alabama State, Auburn University and Huntingdon, are participating. This event is FREE. We only ask for donations and for the audience to buy concessions. For a copy of the full schedule, call (334) 283.1019 ext. 1019 or e-mail michael.bird@tcschools. com. Spring Session Depot Days Academy -- Tuesdays and Thursdays through May 9 4-5 p.m. Shake your hair with us at Depot Days this spring. We will be using inspiration from Dreamworks’ Trolls to incorporate the fundamentals of theatre through storytelling, craft activities and music. Enrollment is open to students in 2nd-5th grades! For more info, call (334) 868-1440 or e-mail kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com.

Wednesday, April 5

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch and Learn Series Open to the Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided.

Thursday, April 6

Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown -- Also April 7-8, 13-15 and 20-22 Doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner served 6:156:45 p.m. Show starts at 7:30 p.m. Faulkner University Dinner Theatre, 5346 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery. Visit https://www.faulkner.edu/undergrad/student-life/ student-activities/dinner-theater/dinner-theatreschedule/ or call 877-840-0457. Montgomery Biscuits 2017 Season Opening Night 7:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. For tickets or more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255. Capri Theatre Presents Science On Screen: Monty Python And The Holy Grail 7:30 p.m. If you’re a fan of Monty Python, you know opportunities to see the film in a theatre don’t come along often. If you’re not a fan, what are you waiting for? Presented by Mark Smith, Mosley Environmental Associate Professor/Extension Specialist at Alabama Cooperative Extension System, School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, Auburn University. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

The Art of Baking Puppet Show -- Also April 7 Shows start at 9:30 and 10:45 a.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Children will learn that “art is everywhere” from charming animals working in a bakery on stage. The characters demonstrate that their particular differences, talents and skills allow them to

work together in order to make tasty masterpieces. In the course of the show, children will also identify shapes, primary colors, cool and warm colors, and patterns used in confections and what it takes to become an artist. The show is for three- to- six-year olds. Advance reservations are required (taken on a first-come, first-serve basis). 200 seats per show. Please note: scheduled visits to ARTWORKS Gallery are not available on Puppet Show dates. Call Jill Byrd at (334) 240-4359 for more information.

Friday, April 7

State Archery Competition Montgomery Multiplex @ Cramton Bowl; Flight Times:  9 a.m., 10 a.m., 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m.,|4 p.m.  $25 per archer; archers get to keep their arrows. Spectators are free. Date Night Movies on the Green -- Also May 5 A date night movie will be played on the big blow-up screen down in Montgomery’s Riverfront Park starting at dark on the first Fridays in April, May and June. Bring chairs or blankets for seating. Food vendors and a cash bar will be available for purchase. No outside alcohol allowed. Must be at least 18 years or older. Pets welcome. $5 tickets must be purchased online or at the gate. April’s movie is The Wedding Singer. May’s movie is Silver Lining Playbook. For more info, visit www. funinmontgomery.com/ or call (334) 625-2300. Parents’ Night Out at Grandview YMCA 6-10 p.m. Take the night to go to a movie, relax at home, go grocery shopping or have a date night. For school age children, ages 5 and up. Dinner for your child, games and fun included! For more info, contact Bill at (334) 290-3622 or bmyers@ymcamontgomery. org. Friday Night Open Volleyball -- Also April 21 6-9 p.m. Bell Road YMCA. For students in 5th through 12th grades every first and third Friday. Students cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Free for members; $3 for non-members. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ ymcamontgomery.org. Friday Night Hoops -- Also April 21 9 p.m.-midnight. Bell Road YMCA. For students in 5th through 12th grades every first and third Friday. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must be playing basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for nonmembers. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org. Parents’ Night Out at United Gymstars & Cheer Also April 21 & 28, and May 5 6:30-10:30 p.m. $20/first child; $15 per sibling. For ages 5-12. Pizza and drink provided. Fun games, trampolines, rope swing, tumble tracks, foam pits and more! Call (334) 284-2244 to reserve your spot! Walkins welcome. Visit www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com for more info.

Saturday, April 8

YMCA Strides For Kids 5K Dash Emory Folmar YMCA Soccer Complex. 8:30 a.m. registration for the 5K and 9:45 a.m. for the Fun Run. Entry Fees: $25 for 5K ($30 after March 25); $10 for 1-Mile Fun Run ($15 after March 25). This event will be held rain or shine. Proceeds benefit the Annual Support Campaign. All 5K participants will receive a dri-fit shirt. Walk-in/Late registrations are welcome (but not guaranteed a shirt). To register, visit www.active.com/ montgomery-al/running/distance-running-races/ymcastrides-for-kids-5k-dash-2017.

5K Race/Walk for Autism Ida B. Young Park, 5400 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. The 5K race begins at 8 a.m., and the walk begins at 9:30 a.m. Pre-race fees: $30; ages 10 and younger $20. Day-of fees: $35; ages 10 and younger $25. For more info, visit http://walkforautismal.com/. Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www. facebook.com/events/1374454692792666/?source=1. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley. com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com. Capital Pawn Shop in Millbrook Holds Community Event 11 a.m. at 3398 Highway 14 in Millbrook. We are located right next to O’Reilly Auto Parts. Food, inflatables for the kids, and a giveaway. Everyone is invited! Capital Pawn Shop is a family and communityoriented business. We want to give back to the patrons of our community. Check us out on Facebook at www. facebook.com/capitalpawnmillbrook. Party for Parkinson’s Fundraising Event 5:30 p.m. in casual attire at Wylnlakes Country Club. This will be a great evening of live music, food and beverages benefitting Parkinson’s Disease research and respite care programs for patients and caregivers in Central Alabama. Chevy 6 will again perform at this can’t-miss event! Tickets are $60 and include 2 drink tickets and BBQ dinner. Visit www.parkinsonaca.org or follow us on Facebook, Twitter, or Google+. An Evening with Clint Black 8 p.m. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Grammy Awardwinning country music star Clint Black will headline this outdoor concert on the grounds of the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. This spectacular event will also include Blackbird Pickers, Jason Givens and the Wanderers, Jessie Lynn and Act of Congress. Rain or shine. Gates open at 4 p.m. Tickets are $30 and can be purchased at www.asf.net. Attendees are encouraged to bring their lawn chairs and blankets. Food will be available for purchase from a variety of local restaurant vendors. All proceeds will go to support the Alabama Shakespeare Festival’s cultural and educational outreach efforts. For more info, call (334) 271-5353. MAX Fireworks at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game -- Also April 22 & 29 6:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. What better way to conclude your night than with a MAX Fireworks Spectacular! Stick around after the game, sit back, and enjoy as crowd-pleasing fireworks light up the sky, creating perfect summer memories! For tickets or info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255. Flora and Fauna Arts Festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. in the NaturePlex at the Alabama Nature Center, 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Enjoy this artistic

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

FamilyCalendar celebration of Alabama’s natural world. Alabama artists will feature their original fine arts and crafts in a variety of mediums and styles, to include ready-to-hang wildlife and floral paintings, wood-carved marine fish, photography, mixed media, gourd art, stained glass mosaics and much more! For more info, call (334) 2854550 or e-mail aharper@alabamawildlife.org. Maxwell Air Force Base Air Show and Open House -- Also April 9 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. both days. 1516 Maxwell Boulevard, Maxwell AFB. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, the French aerial demonstration team, Patrouille de France, and many other acts fill the skies over the River Region. The event will feature many Air Force static aircraft, past and present, as we also commemorate the entry of the U.S. into WWI a century ago and celebrate the Air Force’s 70th birthday. The Air Show is FREE and open to the public. For the latest info, visit maxwellairshow.com or call (334) 953-2015.

Sunday, April 9

Montgomery Biscuits Bark in the Park/Kids Run the Bases/ Kids’ Day -- Also April 23 & 30 2:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. All dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed. One dog per adult. All dog owners must sign a waiver at the RF Gate entrance. Kids ages 14 and under are invited to run the bases after every Sunday game at Riverwalk Stadium presented by Coca-Cola! Kids can also play catch on the field before the game and create some arts and crafts. For tickets or more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Tuesday, April 11

Youth Ice Hockey -- Through April 22; another session runs April 25-May 6 YMCA is partnering with the Eastdale Mall Ice Skating Rink to bring this exciting program for children ages 4 to 11. Children will learn the fundamentals of ice skating and begin to practice the skills needed to play ice hockey. This program will begin as instructional and evolve into a developmental league program. Registration is going on now! Practices will be Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 5:30-6:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. Cost: $35/members and $75/non-members. For more info or to register, contact James at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontogmery.org.

Wednesday, April 12

Leadership Montgomery’s 2017 Unity Award Breakfast 7:30 a.m. at the Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center. Keynote speaker is Peggy Wallace Kennedy (daughter of former Governor George C. Wallace). She will share with the audience her challenges growing up as the daughter of Governor Wallace and how her faith has transformed her. Wonderfully Made Baptist Health Seminar for Women Noon-1 p.m. UAB School of Medicine - Montgomery Campus, 2119 E South Boulevard Suite 304, Montgomery. FREE. Explores the physical, mental and spiritual aspects of women’s health. For more info, visit www. baptistfirst.org/event/wonderfully-made. Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Noon-1 p.m. Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

Wednesday of each month. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www. aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.

Thursday, April 13

Games Day Sponsored by Montgomery Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc. 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. at Whitfield Memorial United Methodist Church, 2673 Fisk Rd., Montgomery. Delicious lunch, door prizes and raffle for $15. Games include Bridge, Canasta, Mah jong, Bingo, Scrabble, Chess, Hand and Foot, or other games. Proceeds from this event benefit the Federation’s scholarship fund. For more info and tickets, contact Nelma at (334) 2882493 or Linda at (334) 279-7670. Deadline to purchase tickets April 7. Make checks payable to Montgomery Federation of Garden Clubs, Inc. Capri Theatre Presents Dirty Dancing 7:30 p.m. Nobody puts Baby in a corner. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Friday, April 14

Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also April 28 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com. Crawfish And Craft 5:30-9:30 p.m. Union Station Train Shed. Tickets are $30/advance; $35/at the door. $2 craft beer and live entertainment. Benefiting Child Protect. For more info, visit www.funinmontgomery.com/. “King of Glory” Good Friday Concert by Frazer Pike Road’s Praise Band 6 p.m. at the Pike Road School. Visit www.frazerumc. org.

Saturday, April 15

Old-Fashioned Egg Hunt at Frazer’s Atlanta Hwy. Campus 10 a.m.-noon. Atlanta Hwy. Soccer Fields. Bring your little ones, from birth to 5 years old, for an egg hunt and your 1st-5th graders for fun-filled relays from days gone by--sack races, balance the egg and more! See the Easter Bunny and hear the Easter message shared through puppets. Fun crafts, snacks and face painting. Visit www.frazerumc.org. Riverfront Easter Eggstravaganza

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Riverfront Park. Free. Call (334) 625-2100 for more info.

Go Fishing at Alabama Nature Center 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Millbrook. Get Outdoors and fish for catfish and bream in one of ANC’s bountiful ponds. From bass to catfish, the ponds are stocked and ready for your line! A limited number of fishing poles will be available for $2 a day as well as a limited amount of bait for a small fee. All ages, children 10 and up recommended. Admission: $5. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org or call (800) 822-9453.

Third Saturday 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the works of art on view at the Museum in these FREE docent-led tours offered the third Saturday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.

Tuesday, April 18

Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Earth Day Safari -- Also April 19 9 a.m.-2 p.m. daily. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway. Celebrate our planet while learning how each of us play a vital role in our environment and the earth’s wildlife. Young or old, it is never too early or late to start making an impact on our planet. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com

Thursday, April 20

Painless Opera -- Also April 21 6:30 p.m. Prattville Community Chorus Annual Spring Dinner Concert featuring the Pops Jazz Band. A fun and pain-free exploration of opera, this annual event features a concert and a wonderful meal for one low price. Cost is $25 per person and tickets can be purchased at chorus.prattvilleal.gov or by calling (334) 595-0854. Space is limited, so make your reservations early. Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “African American Masonry in Alabama: Birmingham’s Prince Hall Temple Grand Lodge,” presented by Mary Stanton. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Capri Theatre Presents Science On Screen: Seabiscuit 7:30 p.m. Seabiscuit is the story of the little horse who could, as well as the people behind him. Each of them is an underdog in their own way: Seabiscuit has a temper and is trained to lose to other horses; Red was abandoned by his financially strapped family and takes up with a horse trainer, and Howard is an automobile tycoon who falls into a deep depression after his son dies in an automobile accident. The team take on the horse racing world to become a Cinderella story of the Great Depression. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Presents Girl With a Pearl Earring 5:30-8 p.m. Have you ever imagined Vermeer’s studio, or how he created such strikingly quiet images in the midst of a busy household? Tracey Chevalier depicts Vermeer’s daily life in her novel, The Girl With a Pearl Earring, in which she imagines how Vermeer’s famous painting came to be. The movie by the same name name features Colin Firth as the modern master and Scarlett Johansson as his model. Enjoy the film (by popular request) at the Museum with an introduction by Curator of Education Alice Novak and a brief discussion following the film. The Museum will provide complimentary popcorn, and beverages will be available for purchase. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Tempest -- Through May 14 Artistic Director Geoffrey Sherman’s final Shakespeare production at ASF, The Tempest is one of Shakespeare’s last plays, crafted with themes of magic, illusion and music. Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan, has been banished to a remote island. Wanting to

www.montgomeryparents.com

res up bro isla asf.

We Mu Am bre ry f wit per per Coo Ap Ap 2p for

Tow Sur 6p 200 how the (33

PB 7-9 spe rep

U.S Arr Loc opp app can Prio frie thi reg qui usk

Joy 8:3 BBQ http

Cap Fes 3p Tou Ani sho info

12t 9a Win Old Old The val, of f org

Cap 7a of 6 bar veg tree pla ava

in ay r

g and ce.

red

ho m

as es e

e he

o, e

rl us

rg/

gic, an,

FamilyCalendar restore his daughter to her rightful place, he conjures up a storm, an enormous tempest, to lure his usurping brother Antonio and King Alonso of Naples to the island. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Visit www. asf.net or call 271-5353. Wetumpka High School Presents Ghost: the Musical -- Through April 29 A murder. A bond so strong that even death couldn’t break it. Ghost the Musical brings the timeless love story from the Academy Award-winning film to the stage with a searing score, remarkable illusions, and the perfect balance of humor and tragedy. The play will be performed in Wetumpka High School Commons, 1251 Coosa River Parkway, Wetumpka. Dates are Thursday, April 20-Saturday, April 22 at 6:30 p.m.; Friday, April 28, at 6:30 p.m.; and Saturday, April 29, at 2 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. Admission is $10 for adults; $5 for ages 6-12; and free for ages 5 and under.

Friday, April 21

Town Hall Meeting for Capitol Heights and Surrounding Neighborhoods 6 p.m. at Capitol Heights United Methodist Church, 2000 Winona Avenue. Come and share your ideas on how our church can better serve the community. Join the conversation, fellowship and a meal on us. Call (334) 264-2464 for more information. PBS KIDS Debuts ‘PBS Kids Family Night’ 7-9 p.m. Weekly family viewing events featuring movie specials or themed programming. The Family Night will repeat on Saturday and Sunday nights.

Saturday, April 22

U.S. Kids Golf Montgomery Local Tour Arrowhead Golf Course, Montgomery. U.S. Kids Golf Local Tours provide boys and girls, ages 5 to 14, the opportunity to advance their golf experience in ageappropriate competition. At the Local Tour level, kids can gain their first exposure to competitive golf, earn Priority Status for Championship Events, meet new friends and learn valuable life lessons. Register for this event through April 17. For more info or to register, contact Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536, quincyleonard@leogolfacademy.com or visit www. uskidsgolf.com. Joy to Life Walk of Life 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Tallapoosa Street near Dreamland BBQ, downtown Montgomery. For more info, visit http://events.joytolife.org/. Capri Theatre Presents Black Maria Film Festival Tour 3 p.m. The 36th Annual Black Maria Film Festival Tour featuring award winning shorts from the festival. Animation, documentary, experimental and narrative shorts from around the world and the US. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858. 12th Annual Alabama Book Festival 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Old Alabama Town. Featuring authors Winston Groom (Forrest Gump) and Karren Pell (whom Old Alabama Town fans know as a performer with the Old Alabama Town Revue Crue), among many others. The free public event is the state’s premier book festival, with a children’s activity area sure to make it a day of fun for the entire family! Visit alabamabookfestival. org for more info. Capital City Master Gardener Annual Plant Sale 7 a.m.-noon. Frazer United Methodist Church, corner of 6700 Atlanta Highway/Burbank. Terrific plants at bargain prices. Plants for sale include: heirloom plants, vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials, ground covers, trees, shrubs, succulents, shade plants and house plants. Garden items and potted container gardens also available for purchase. Bring the kids for fun children’s

gardening activities. Our Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer your gardening questions. Beat the crowd and come early because the plants go quickly! For more info, visit capcitymga.org. Pike Road Community Yard Sale 7 a.m.-noon. Pike Road Town Hall. For details, call (334) 272-9883 or e-mail info@pikeroad.us. You can also access the online calendar at www.pikeroad.us. Fort Toulouse/ Fort Jackson French & Indian War Encampment -- Also April 23 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Fort ToulouseJackson Park, 2521 W Fort Toulouse Rd, Wetumpka. Daily life at a French frontier fort and Creek village in the year 1756. Soldiers engage in mock battles each day and souvenirs replicating items of the time period will be available from merchants on site. Living history demonstrations of military, Indian and civilian life will take place on Saturday and Sunday throughout the day. Admission Charged: $4/adult and $2/child. For more info, call (334) 567-3002.

Sunday, April 23

Montgomery Biscuits Military Wednesday 7:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Join us as we salute all current and former military personnel every Wednesday! All military personnel who bring their Military ID will receive special food and drink specials. Looking for some unique food? Each Wednesday, our fantastic food staff are going to create a great menu of unique food you wouldn’t usually find at the ballpark! For tickets or more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255. Pike Road Community’s Annual Spring Cleanup Through April 29 In partnership with PALS. Contact Tosha Darnell at tosha@pikeroad.us or (334) 272-9883 to find out how you or your group can help keep our hometown beautiful.

Thursday, April 27

Red Door Theatre Presents Honky Tonk Angels Through April 30 7:30 p.m. April 27-29; 2:30 p.m. matinee April 30. Red Door Theatre, Union Springs. Ted Swindley, the creator of Always...Patsy Cline combines more than 30 classic country tunes with a hilarious story about three gutsy gals who are determined to better their lives and follow their dreams to Nashville. The all-hit song list includes “I’ll Fly Away,” “Stand by Your Man,” “9 to 5,” “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” “Ode to Billy Jo,” “These Boots Are Made for Walking,” “Rocky Top” and “I Will Always Love You.” Call (334) 738-8687 or e-mail info@reddoortheatre.org.

Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams 2-4 p.m. Bring the whole family to this FREE Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts program and listen to the best jazz artists from the River Region perform or bring an instrument of your own and join in with the band!  Seating is limited, so arrive early for this great afternoon of live music. Drop in the studios between 2 and 4 p.m. and create art projects with your children designed around exhibitions in the Museum’s Temporary Galleries. Thanks to the Alabama Roots Society for making Jazz Jams possible. No reservations necessary. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.

Cloverdale Playhouse Theatre Presents The Crucible -- Through May 7 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sunday matinees. Inspired by the events of the era of McCarthyism, playwright Arthur Miller explores the mass political and cultural hysteria created by the U.S. Government’s attempts to suppress Communism and the radical leftist activity in America. Using the avenue of the Salem Witch Trials, Miller’s story focuses upon a young farmer, his wife and a young servant-girl who maliciously causes the wife’s arrest for witchcraft.  For more info, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530.

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Holds Auditions for Hairspray! -Also April 24 This musical recently wowed TV audiences and has delighted Broadway audiences for years. Now the local community has the opportunity to sing, dance and star in the biggest musical to be produced at the Way Off Broadway Theatre. It will be directed by Mary Katherine Moore, with Marilyn Swears as music director and Daniel Harms as choreographer. There will be 30 parts cast for ages 16 to 50. Auditions are open to anyone and we are actively seeking a multiracial cast. Auditions will be held at the Prattville Cultural Arts Center at 203 West 4th Street in Prattville on Sunday, from 2-5 p.m., and on Monday, from 7-10 p.m. For more info, visit the Way Off Broadway Theatre Facebook page and look for the event “Hairspray Just Got Real.” Performances will be held July 13-29. For more info, call (334) 595-0854.

Millbrook Community Theatre Presents The Odd Couple -- Through May 7 7:30 p.m. except for April 30 and May 7 @ 2 p.m. Written by Neil Simon; directed by Susan Chain. Down-on-their luck Oscar the Slob and Felix the Neat Freak become reluctant roommates to hilarious and disastrous results. Tickets are $12 in advance, $14 at the door, and $8 for 12 and under. For tickets or more info, visit www.millbrooktheater.com or call (334) 7827317.

Monday, April 24

Umoja Homeschool Group Sponsors Public Forum for Parents Interested in Homeschooling 5:30 p.m. at the Morgan Library, 245 High Street in Montgomery. For more info, e-mail umojahomeschool@ gmail.com or visit https://goo.gl/lbXe7F.

Wetumpka Depot Presents Last of the Red Hot Lovers -- Through May 13 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sunday matinees. Written by Neil Simon; directed by Tom Salter, this charming comedy follows long-married Barney Cashman, a 47-year-old seafood restaurant owner, as he tries to have one passionate tryst before opportunity passes him by. His attempts to become a Casanova offer a hilarious look at a fine fellow who just just can’t seem to succeed in sinning. And his mother’s apartment is empty every Sunday afternoon… For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or e-mail kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com. HandsOn River Region Honors the 2017 Volunteers of the Year Nominees Trinity Presbyterian Church. Awards are presented to outstanding individuals and groups whose efforts have made a positive impact on the River Region. Thanks to sponsors AARP Alabama, Barrie and Laura Harmon, Jack Ingram Motors, Long-Lewis Foundation and Red Hill Gallery, a $300 cash contribution will be made

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

FamilyCalendar on behalf of each award recipient to the nominating nonprofit agency. Among the hundreds to be honored are Joan Loeb and Sarah Spear, the 2017 Lifetime Achievement Award nominees. For more info, call (334) 264-3335 or visit www.handsonriverregion.org. Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of Montgomery invites all women of the River Region to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Country Club. Attention all fashionistas and aspiring models! In conjunction with Ms. Eleanor Davis of Repeat Performance, we will be having a fashion show during our April luncheon. Cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, April 24, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com.

Friday, April 28

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Corey Smith 8 p.m. Innovative sound, honest lyrics, and energetic performance Tickets begin at $20. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. Montgomery Biscuits High School Spirit Night 7:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Calling all Montgomery area High Schools! Come support your high school and local student achievements from the past year. Stick around after the game for MAX Fireworks. For tickets or more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255. Nomination Deadline for Alabama Academy of Honor Class of 2017 The State Legislature created the Alabama Academy of Honor in 1965 to bestow honor and recognition upon living Alabamians whose outstanding accomplishments and service have significantly benefitted or reflected great credit on the State of Alabama. Inductees of recent years include Tim Cook, Nick Saban, Rosa Parks, Harper Lee, Randy Owen and Condoleezza Rice. The Academy is accepting nominations from the public until April 28. Current members of the Academy will elect new members to be inducted at a ceremony at the State Capitol on October 23. Nomination forms are available at www.alabamaacademyofhonor.org or by calling (334) 242-4441. Pink and Pearls for Girls 6th Annual Dedication Ball and Awards Night 6:30 p.m. at the Doster Memorial Community Center, 424 Northington Street, Prattville. Come and showcase your business or organization. We have 20 slots available in the Resource Area. A $25 ticket includes: seating, meal, display set-up, spotlighted @ event, business info listed on directory inside of program, business cards placed inside of guests’ bags and featured on our Facebook pages before event. Pink and Pearls for Girls is a hands-on youth organization providing learning opportunities for girls ages 2 years to 18. Call us for additional info or to reserve your slot at (334) 561-5091. Confederate Memorial Park Civil War & Living History -- Also April 29 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday; 10-11:30 a.m. Saturday with skirmish at 1 p.m. Confederate Memorial Park, 437 Co Rd 63, Marbury. A day of “up close and personal” living history of the War Between the States for schools and the public. Infantry, cavalry, artillery, commissary wagon, soldiers equipment, uniforms, music, flags, civilian life, medical, bivouac and infantry drill (student participation). The new state of the art museum (fee charged) interprets Alabama’s role in the war as well as Alabama’s only home for Confederate veterans. FREE self-guided tours of the soldiers’ home site. For more info, call (205) 755-1990.

Saturday, April 29

Fountain City Arts Festival Dinner Honoring Ace Atkins 6 p.m. Marriott Legends at Capitol Hill, Prattville. The

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

dinner will include a reception to meet Alabama writer Ace Atkins, an entertaining program and a silent auction to benefit the Friends of the Arts. Tickets are $45. For more info or for reservations, call (334) 595-0854. Capital Of Dreams Triathlon Riverfront Park. Races: Intermediate - 1.5K Swim | 40K Bike | 10K Run; Sprint - 400m Swim | 20K Bike | 5K Run. For more info or to register, visit www.team-magic.com/ events/96. Taco Libre 2017 4-10 p.m. Montgomery’s 2nd Annual Taco, Beer and Music Festival, celebrating taquerias, restaurants and food trucks from all over the state and featuring craft beer from Alabamabased breweries. This is a multi-tiered designed festival that features entertainment and activities for all ages and is family friendly. As the evening progresses, the music ramps up from 8-10 p.m. This year’s festival will also be the grand opening of THE YARDS at Western Rail, a 40acre entertainment and recreational venue located in the core of downtown Montgomery. For more info, visit www.lightninglinemgm.com/tacolibre/. Rend Collective in Concert 7 p.m. Wesley Hall in Frazer’s Atlanta Highway campus. Folk-influenced Irish worship band. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $22 general admission; $18 groups 10+ and $40 deluxe (with early entry and band Q&A). For more info or tickets, visit http://frazer.church/ event/rend-collective-in-concert. Dino Dig Educational Program 10 a.m.-noon. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway. Junior explorers get to experience an archaeological dig, discover bones from the past and have a great time while learning about creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago. Dino Dig is geared for boys and girls aged 4-10 years old. It is packed with a classroom lesson plan, real dig time, live animal presentations, and everyone leaves with a take-home, keepsake goody bag. Advance reservations must be made by April 28. For more info, call (334) 240-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com. Camp Celebration 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Pete Peterson Lodge, 2635 Gunter Park Drive East, Montgomery. Camp Celebration is a day for children and teens, ages 5-16 that have experienced a death in their life. For more info, visit www. baptistfirst.org/event/camp-celebration.

Sunday, April 30

Songs of Grace and Songs of Glory 3 p.m. Prattville Pops Spring Concert at Doster Center featuring the Pops Concert and Jazz Bands. Admission is free and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit pops.prattvilleal.gov.

Thursday, May 4

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Two Gentlemen of Verona -- Through May 13 Proteus is in love with Julia until he gets an eyeful of his best friend’s girl, Silvia. When friends turn into rivals things quickly go comic as they clash with bandits, a bad-mannered dog, an angry father and a girl who won’t be dumped. This condensed version of Shakespeare’s first play is sure to be a big hit with all ages! Recommended for ages nine and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.

Friday, May 5

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Tommy Emmanuel with Supporting Act Christie Lenee 8 p.m. Two-time Grammy nominee Tommy Emmanuel is one of Australia’s most respected musicians. The legendary guitarist has a professional career that spans five decades and continues to intersect with some of the finest musicians throughout the world. Tickets begin at $40. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Sherlock Holmes -- Through May 13 A new adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes story by Geoffrey Sherman, this gripping tale of the world’s most famous detective features amazing twists and turns, accompanied by a healthy dose of comedy. Recommended for ages nine and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.

Bre Des bre com exp Clas 849 mo

Bre This mo

Saturday, May 6

U.S. Kids Golf Montgomery Local Tour Championsip Lagoon Park Golf Course, Montgomery. U.S. Kids Golf Local Tours provide boys and girls, ages 5 to 14, the opportunity to advance their golf experience in age-appropriate competition. At the Local Tour level, kids can gain their first exposure to competitive golf, earn Priority Status for Championship Events, meet new friends and learn valuable life lessons. Register for this event through May 1. For more info or to register, contact Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536, quincyleonard@leogolfacademy.com or visit www.uskidsgolf.com. Family Fishing Class at Alabama Nature Center 2-4:30 p.m. Come join us at the ANC with Doug Darr to learn a wide range of fishing techniques! Guests are encouraged to bring their own rod and reel; however, we do have a limited number of extras. Be sure to register early as this class will fill up quickly and there is a maximum capacity. This is a great class to participate in as a family! Ages 8 & up. Admission $5. Visit www. alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. Flimp Festival 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Artrelated activities and entertainment including a sidewalk chalk art competition and live theatrical and musical performances by Booker T. Washington Magnet High School. Other student performances every 45 minutes. Also interactive demonstrations with Museum Store artists, a scavenger hunt, and concessions. Festivities will kick off with the everpopular Do-Dah Pet Parade. Free for all MMFA members, active-duty military and their immediate families. Tickets can be purchased the day of the event and are $5 for adults and $3 for children. Visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333. Central Alabama Library Workshop 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery. Cost is $5 for lunch. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. Light refreshments will be available when you arrive and at breaks. Deadline to register is May 4 at midnight. To register, contact Marty Woodall at (334) 569-3854, e-mail martybooks1@juno.com or write 8421 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka, 36092. Black Jacket Symphony Presents Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience by recreating classic albums in a live performance setting with a first-class lighting and video production. Following the album and a brief intermission, the Black Jacket Symphony returns to the stage to perform a collection of greatest hits by the evening’s artist. Tickets begin at $25. Visit www. mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

www.montgomeryparents.com

vari bre pro bre and Par Reg org Hea

Car Tau one bas birt pro soo pat e-m per ees

Chi Pro hav tau 1. C nan

Chi day This per fam and pos incl tion and Are sele incl org to B ID r

Chi Aub Sat wee the Ma

s ary es

rey

FamilyCalendar Classes

Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes trouble-shooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 2938497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org to register or for more info. Breastfeeding Class This one-time class at Baptist Health provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding including

sip cal ity

n nd es

ver,

ith

ony its

Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@ gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org.

ble

CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/ child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980.

various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. E-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst. org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Caring For Your Newborn Taught by Baptist Health Newborn Nursery nurses, this one-time class helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst. org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more info or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu.

Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Maternity Area Tour Baptist Health’s Maternity Area Tour is for parents not attending Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp. Tour is offered on select Saturdays of each month and is complimentary. Tour is for adults only. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by wellknown pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www. Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 293-8497 or e-mail: liz.owen@jackson.org.

Sibling Preparation Class One-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. Slow Flow Yoga Classes are held at Old Alabama Town on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:30-12:15, and 12:30-1:15. Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to Molton South Building. Enter through the Rose House, located on Columbus St. between N. Hull and Decatur. Parking is available along Decatur and N. Hull. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days). Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@icloud.com.

Services

American Cancer Society Seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more info, or to volunteer, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Baptist Hospice Volunteers There are many ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Baptist Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977. Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more info, call (334) 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and (334) 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital. Hospice of Montgomery Volunteer Opportunities 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. There is a current need for Patient Care and Family Support volunteers, Clerical volunteers, and Outreach/Fundraising volunteers. For more info, call (334) 279-6677 or e-mail kjones@ hospiceofmontgomery.org. Jackson Hospital Animal Therapy Program Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894. Jackson Hospital Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital information desk volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. Call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson. org/patients_volunteers.html. Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

SupportGroups those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168. River Region Association of Doulas Doulas Traci Weafer, Rebekah Hawkins and Christina Clark provide prenatal counseling, labor and postpartum doula services, breastfeeding education, events and support groups. Contact rradoulas@gmail.com or visit rradoulas. weebly.com or https://www.facebook.com/RRADoulas/.

Support Groups Adoption Support

in the tri-county area. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com

montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.

Parent Support

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail vaughnforestmops@gmail.com or visit http://vfcmops.weebly.com/.

D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more info, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, interested

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call Sonia Martin at 409-9477 or at smartin@childrensaid.org. Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Kathy King at (205) 943-5331 or e-mail kking@childrensaid.org. Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

Divorce Support

DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Join us for thirteen weeks of guidance and purpose as you move forward with life after divorce. For more info, call 495-6368. Divorce Care for Kids meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Children of divorce or separation find hope, help, and healing. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info. DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 6121086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com.

Homeschool Support

ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays year-round from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a support group for homeschooling families

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery.AL@gmail.com or visit http://www.llli.org/groups/@ llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook. Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of children ages birth-5 years at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc. org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919. The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https://sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:3011:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www.

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) 3655977. Post-abortion Support Group, Saint James United Methodist Church, 6-8:30 p.m. meeting 2nd and last Thursdays of the month for six sessions beginning March 9 and ending May 25. Do you have a secret you have promised yourself “you are taking to the grave?” Come and listen to stories of others who were scared to surrender their secret. Come and find healing and peace that you never even knew you needed. Come and learn about the One who came to set you free. Join us in a study of “Surrendering the Secret” by Pat Layton and know that you are not alone! (Learner guide and digital download sessions.) To sign up, e-mail annpemberton@charter.net. 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. “Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. Contact Melissa at (205) 913-2667 for more information.

Single Parents Support

God Will Make a Way, Frazer UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. Learn to follow God’s principles to thrive relationally, emotionally, and spiritually in 12 key areas of life and use God’s wisdom to cope with your most difficult problems. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@ frazerumc.org for more info. Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Sin Uni of P Thu to m 272

Sin Tue Call info

SW Gun sing cou the mo Fac eve

TN Me ship pro org

Ala ma Par alab

Cen (C. 31 (Fe e-m

Mo Vau to 8 eve and Visi our Con gm

Mo me Me at 4 non of A and abo rec con

Ali Tue UM

Cal 410

Sup cat at P 625

ourd.

ort nt ed

st of for s

nd ay

en ho er-

Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc. org for info.

Special Needs Support

Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. 2016 pageant date TBA. Visit www. alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook! 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. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@ gmail.com for more info. 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. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net.

Teens/Families Support

Alienated Grandparents Anonymous meets third Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m in room 3104 at Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. For more info, call 272-8622

on.

Call Family Guidance Center of Alabama at 2704100 for information about current classes.

Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

Please send calendar info to editor@montgomeryparents.com. 87

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

A Page in a Book Help Wanted: Big Jobs for Little Kids Once a child is old enough to help with small tasks, parents can often find themselves with a surplus of assistance. When children are invited to participate through helping, it creates a sense of value and responsibility. Sorting clothes, mixing batter, carrying the mail, and other opportunities for kids to contribute can be a vital part of supporting their positive self-image. This empowerment of the child can also lead to young ones seeking innovative and bold ways to ‘help’. The following titles explore the lighter side of youthful assistance and the humorous results of their enthusiastic help.

Sprout Helps Out

by Rosie Winstead (Penguin / Dial) Even though Sprout is young, she’s still older and bigger than her baby sister, Bea. So while her mom works from home, Sprout has big ideas about how she can help with the baby. Citing all the ways that she takes care of herself, Sprout’s enthusiastic confidence in her ability to help powers her grand plans for entertaining Bea. The actual chaos that Sprout’s ‘help’ generates only makes her successful assistance more powerful. Pencil and watercolors soften the edges of the mess, leaving the helpful spirit of Sprout to shine in this sweet story of a girl who takes on responsibility with love and wonderful abandon.

Nanette’s Baguette

by Mo Willems (Disney / Hyperion) Nothing delights young Nanette’s taste buds like a warm baguette. When her mother gives her a coin to make her first solo trip to the bakery for a fresh loaf, Nanette is delighted to help. Navigating a journey fraught with distractions (from Brett with his clarinet to Mr. Barnett with his pet, Antoinette), Nanette and her coin reach the bakery. Once the baguette is bought, the return home with the hot, crispy loaf is all that remains. But how long can a tempting baguette last in the hands of a hungry Nanette? Celebrating a child’s first taste of responsibility and the hazards that can come along with the task, this delightful romp will whet every young readers appetite for opportunities to help.

th • • • •

Laundry Day

by Jessixa Bagley (Roaring Brook Press) Tic and Tac are badger brothers who are bored beyond measure. As they loudly lament the lack of something to do, their mother makes suggestions while she does the laundry. The brothers discard all her ideas, until she offers something new that they’ve never done before; hang up the wet laundry on her clothesline. Armed with instructions on how to handle wet clothes and use clothespins to hang them, Tic and Tac make quick work of getting the laundry on the line. But their excess energy (and new-found talent) give them grander ideas for helping that may put their mother’s patience on the line. Saluting the enthusiasm that comes with teaching kids new skills, this charming picture book tips its hat to the rewards of chores. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

• • • •

•1

Bradford Health Services ROAD MAP TO ADOLESCENT RECOVERY

ne n.

Addiction is not an easy road for adults and can be even more difficult for teenagers. Drug and alcohol dependency can take adolescents away from their families, friends, and a successful future. Bradford Health Services has guided young people and their families

their families identify, embrace, and maximize their strengths and skill sets. •

Inpatient Treatment, Intensive Outpatient Treatment & Continuing Care

•

Clinical services facilitated by licensed therapists

•

Medical services available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

•

Psychological Evaluation

•

Education Program

•

Recreational Activities

•

Family Education Program

•

Adventure-Based Counseling

s s.

BRADFORD

on the road to recovery for more than 30 years. We help adolescents and

• 12-Step

HEALTH SERVICES

Call today for a free consultation 334-244- 0702 • 1- 800 - 333 -1865 www.bradfordhealth.com

Groups

There Is Hope Ahead. 89

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Business Card Directory

Ala

Ala Ar

Ble

Bra

Ev Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

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

Family Guidance Center, 72

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 25

FC Montgomery Soccer Academy, 28

New Park, 65

First Bapist Church, Montgomery, 43

OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 73

First Baptist Church, P’ville, 71

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 37

First Presbyterian Kindergarten, P’ville, 28

Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 53

Adventure Sports II, 53

First UMC, Prattville, 38

Pet Palace Hotels, 67

Alabama Christian Academy, 26

Frazer Kindergarten and Preschool, 36

Prattville YMCA, 47

AL Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front & Back

Frazer Memorial UMC, 49

Professional Pediatrics, 12

AL School of Math & Science, 2

Health Services, Inc., 39

Pump It Up Party, 74

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 30

Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, 51

River Region Straw, 52

Armory Athletics, 47

Herron Dermatology & Laser, 20

Riverview Camp for Girls, 45

ASKIN/Synergy House, 90

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 34

Rockin’ Jump, 69

ASU Acting Camp, 23

Hooper Academy, 35

Rolling Video Games of AL, 71

ASU Continuing Education Camps, 18

Huntingdon Basketball Camp, 14

Saint James School, 1

AUM Early Childhood Center, 8

Inflatables of Montgomery, 55

Saint James UMC, 9

Baptist Health, 63

Joy to Life, 57

Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 77

Barb’s on Mulberry, 24

KLynn Ice Skating, 70

Shade Tree Riding Stables, 56

Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 36

Kingry Orthodontics, 87

Shane’s Rib Shack, 52

Blended and Blessed Conference, 13

Kumon, 59

Spacewalker, The, 35

Bradford Health Services, 89

Learning Tree Child Care, 42

Spotless Cleaning Services, 11

Camp Walkabout, 56

Legacy Early Learning Center, 22

Spray and Play, 90

Cellar Door Wine Club, 90

Little Lights Creative Learning, 24

Success Unlimited Academy, 32

Centerpoint Fellowship, 54

Lori Mercer Photography, 73

Sweet Kiss Fertility, 90

Chapman Orthodontics, 19

Macon East Academy, 7

Sylvan Learning Center, 22

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 29

Mathnasium, 48

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 79

Churchill Academy, 15

MEOW Academy, 21

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Crowned with Glory Ministries, 75

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 40

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 14

Dentistry for Children, 27

Montessori @ Mulberry, 17

Trinity Presbyterian School, 3

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 40

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 41

Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 55

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 75

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 87

United Gymstars & Cheer, 21

E & S Hobbies, 90

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 31

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 27

Eastern Oaks Church, 4

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 62

Vaughn Road Preschool, 33

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 79

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 90

YMCA Camp Chandler, 37

Evangel Christian Academy, 38

My Kids Attic, Women’s Consignment, 19

You and Me Boutique, 61

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Power Rangers

Beauty and the Beast

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: CViolence: C Sexual Content: BProfanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Power Rangers PG-13 for sequences of sci-fi violence, action and destruction, language, and for some crude humor. Like so many franchises brought from the sunlit family room into the dark cinematic realm, you’ll quickly discover the biggest mission of the 2017 Rangers is to represent the gritty life of teenagerdom. Moments after meeting Jason (Darce Montgomery), our lead guy and soon-to-be Red Ranger, we are treated to a tasteless joke about “milking” a bull that is being dragged into a competing high school’s locker room. (“I thought it was an udder!”) From there we work our way into issues of parental neglect, trespassing, stealing, reckless driving, bullying and questioning of sexual-identity. If, after reading that, you’re still game for the two-hour-plus tedium of this origin story, here’s the basic plot setup: Our first three Rangers meet in detention class. After the bovine incident, Jason is no longer the school’s star football player. Walking into the Saturday holding pen, he immediately takes care of a bully who’s harassing Billy (RJ Cyler), the future Blue Ranger. Kimberly (Naomi Scott), another troubled teen, notices the heroic effort and a trio is formed. And yes, she will be the Pink Ranger. An evening runaway trip to a goldmine outside their small town of Angle Grove (thanks to a stolen family vehicle) unleashes an avalanche of coincidences. The ever-talented Billy, who earlier showed how he could hack Jason’s house arrest anklet, turns out to have pyrotechnic skills too. While he’s busy setting off explosives that reveal a mysterious glass-like wall that encases five glowing round stones, we meet the final two contestants. Yellow and Black Rangers, Trini and Zack (Becky G. and Ludi Lin) also happen to be in the mood for an evening adventure at the mine. It seems they have been brought together by a mysterious force that desires they discover the color-coded “coins” that will unleash their special powers. From there we are led down a twisty plot path that involves a buried alien spaceship. Onboard are an instructive android (voice of Bill Hader) and a mentor called Zordon (voice of Brian Cranston) who has been turned into pixelated wallpaper by the prehistoric villainess Rita Repulsa (Elizabeth Banks). The content swings uncomfortably between corny and disturbing. However, if you’ve seen other superhero origin stories, you know that the lengthy introductions are always followed by a battle. In Power Rangers, this is an all-out, town-destroying slug-fest that pits Rita against our newly minted Ranger team. Assuming you upsized your concessions, this experience will be a test of both patience and bladder capacity.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated Beauty and the Beast (2017) PG for some action violence, peril and frightening images. Based on the now classic Beauty and the Beast from 1991, director Bill Condon pulls out all the stops with this animation-to-live-action conversion. Those who have watched and re-watched his source material will have no problem picking out the familiar storyline and famous songs amid the lavish sets, amazing costumes and reimaged production numbers. As expected, the story follows Belle (played by Emma Watson), a young bookish woman who doesn’t quite fit in with the others living in her French provincial town. Despite being called odd and becoming the object of some abuse, Belle’s good looks and the romantic challenge she presents still attract the attention of the village’s most eligible bachelor Gaston (Luke Evans). When she declines his proposal, preferring reading to marrying him, she awakens the fury of an ego scorned. Meanwhile Belle’s father Maurice (Kevin Kline) stumbles upon a forbidden fortress in the forest where he unwittingly becomes the prisoner of its master, a terrifying Beast (Dan Stevens). When the devoted daughter discovers the situation, she selflessly offers to take his place. After the switch is accepted by the cruel creature, Maurice uses his freedom to try and round up a rescue party even though his pleas for help are met by mocking and scorn. Unbeknownst to the grieving Dad, life within the stone walls proves better for Belle than it at first appeared. And the presence of the beautiful stranger brings hope to the other residents of the enchanted castle who are also held captive by a magical curse. But before the spell can be broken some hard hearts must first be softened. This remake adds a few embellishments to the original plot, including some insights into the characters’ backstories, along with extra songs. Belle is endowed with a more feminist attitude, that is expressed in her love of literacy, defiance of convention and courage in the face of fearful circumstances. And Gaston’s sidekick LeFou (Josh Gad) is depicted as effeminate, as well as briefly shown dancing with another man. These alterations may alarm family audiences, even though the portrayals are subtle. In truth, most youngsters are less likely to notice Condon’s admitted agenda than they are to be scared by the violence shown here. Because of this, the movie is likely best suited for older children and adults. Those who are fans of the 1991 film will appreciate the way this production pays homage to the sentimentality they undoubtedly will be bringing along with them. This visual spectacle is sure to shake out a few more dollars for the studio, even if the 2017 version of the fairytale expands the message of looking for inner beauty and having empathy toward those who are different into broader territory.

What Parents need to know about Power Rangers...

Violence: This film contains frequent depictions of violence and characters in peril. Car chases occur while characters are avoiding police/security guards. Frequent injuries are depicted, some with blood effects. Characters transform into grotesque creatures. Corpses are depicted. Battles and fist-fights are portrayed. Large machines and supernatural beings engage in conflict. Death, injury and property damage result from beating, stomping, hitting, crushing, explosion and turning things into dust. Weapon use includes guns, swords and supernatural powers. Bullying and teasing are depicted and discussed. Sexual Content: A teen girl undresses (she is seen in her bra) and dives into a lake. Some mild sexual innuendo is heard. A villainess is seen in scanty costumes. Profanity: Infrequent use of mild and moderate profanities, scatological slang, crude language and terms of deity. Alcohol / Drug Use: A teenaged character drinks beer.

What Parents need to know about Beauty and the Beast (2017)... Violence: A character is shot three times with a gun -- two of these on screen, no blood is shown. Wolves attack characters on two occasions, injuries result. Characters are mocked and bullied as well as verbally and physically abused. Characters fight with swords and attempt to push one another from tall buildings. Some scenes may frighten young children. Sexual Content: Infrequent, mild sexual innuendo including remarks implying same gender attraction. Females are seen in cleavage revealing dresses and modest underwear. Men and women embrace and kiss. Profanity: A single use of deity and a French religious term. Alcohol / Drug Use: Implied alcohol use in a pub setting. Montgomery Parents I April 2017

www.montgomeryparents.com

plan

1. Stay informed

2. Learn about basic injury and disease prevention 3. Look for the most current information on emergency preparedness 4. Create a family preparedness plan 5. Become familiar with the emergency plans of your community

prepare store essential items Water Food Can Opener First Aid Kit Flashlight

Radio Clothes Personal Care Items Important Documents

practice Practice and review your preparedness plan every six months Plan. prepare. practice.

http://www.adph.org

Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of infected mosquitoes. These mosquitoes typically lay eggs in and near standing water in items such as buckets, bowls, animal dishes, flower pots and vases.

Avoid the Bite! You can help prevent the spread of Zika and other mosquito-borne diseases by preventing mosquito bites and breeding. For the most up-to-date information on Zika Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases in Alabama, visit www.adph.org/mosquito or call 1-800-252-1818.

AC A DE M I C Y E A R 2 0 1 5 - 1 6

By the Numbers A C A D E M I C S

86%

OF THE CLASS OF 2016 EARNED M E R I T- B A S E D SCHOLARSHIPS TOTA L I N G O V E R

MILLION

13 OF O N LY

INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING

7 T H G R A D E students qualified for D U K E T I P

CUM LAUDE SOCIETY Chapters in Alabama

THE ARTS

16 Speech & Debate Accolades

AP SCHOLARS

88 Accepted to

9.5

N AT I O N A L MERIT FINALISTS

STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS THE MOST IN ALABAMA

Ranks 3rd

Overall State Championships in the United States

2016 team member named ALABAMA SPEECH &

DEBATE STUDENT OF THE YEAR and nominated for the National Student of the Year

AP STUDIO ART SENIORS EXHIBIT AT STONEHENGE

Upper School Chorus

HERITAGE NATIONAL

CHORAL COMPETITION in Seattle, Washington

LEADERSHIP

AT H L E T I C S

Ask about financial aid options that make an MA education a possibility.

S TAT E C H A M P I O N S H I P S

Contact Susannah Cleveland Director of Admissions admissions@montgomeryacademy.org

334.272.8210 | montgomeryacademy.org

The Academy admits students of every color, gender, national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, or other legally protected status to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.