RAISING AWARENESS OF THE THREAT OF ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF APPROPRIATE ANTIBIOTIC PRESCRIBING AND USE IN THE COMMUNITIES, IN HEALTHCARE FACILITIES, AND ON THE FARM
• At least 80 million antibiotic prescriptions each year are unnecessary. • Antibiotics are only needed for treating certain infections caused by bacteria. • Antibiotics do not work on viruses such as colds and flu. • Antibiotics are not always the answer. Everyone can help improve antibiotic prescribing and use. • S tay healthy and keep others healthy by washing hands, covering cough, staying home when sick and getting recommended vaccines.
Viruses or Bacteria: What’s got you sick? Common Condition:
Common Cause Bacteria
Bacteria or Virus
Virus
Are antibiotics needed?
Strep throat
✔
YES
Whooping cough
✔
YES
Urinary tract infection
✔
YES
Sinus infection
✔
MAYBE
Middle ear infection
✔
MAYBE
Bronchitis/chest cold (in otherwise healthy children and adults)*
✔
NO*
Common cold/runny nose
✔
NO
Sore throat (except strep)
✔
NO
Flu
✔
NO
*Studies show that in otherwise healthy children and adults, antibiotics for bronchitis won’t help you feel better.
www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use
Oh, The Places They Are Going! THE SAINT JAMES SCHOOL CLASS OF 2018 EARNED OVER $6.4 MILLION IN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS! These graduates are attending some of the finest and most selective universities and colleges in the U.S. and the world. These Saint James alumni embody the school’s mission and philosophy of educating the whole child, including academics, arts, and athletics. Two National Merit Finalists, One National Merit Commended Student, Five Advanced Placement Scholars, a Two-Title State Forensics Champion & Speaker of the Year, Youth Governor, District & State Math Champions, Robotics Finalists, Two Regional Scholastic Silver Key Winners, Volleyball State Champions, Girls All Metro Basketball Player of the Year, Boys All Metro Basketball Player of the Year, 4A Region Runner-up Football Team (with the most wins for a senior class and the most points in a season in school history), Girls Basketball 4A State Final Four Participant, Boys Basketball 4A Area 4 Tournament Champions and Regional Participant, and so much more!
They’re off and away! With a firm foundation under their feet. And ready for any challenge they meet. With great promise for the future, we congratulate the Saint James Class of 2018!
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. Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
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Volume 23 Number 8
8 Living With Children John Rosemond
12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
Keeping Your Middle Schooler Organized
Set them up for success while growing their independence.
76 64 70
Stressful Back to School Mornings?
Try these ideas to keep the morning chaos at bay.
14 Montgomery Education Matters by Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Interim Superintendent
40 Pike Road Education Matters by Superintendent Charles Ledbetter, Ed.D.
42 Autauga Education Matters
72 78 74
by Superintendent Spence Agee
46 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis
52 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media
After School Activities Local after school enrichment plus registration dates.
Eat Like the French
Consider this healthier approach for your family.
54 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston
60 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
80 Get This!
On The Cover Jada Frazier (6th grade) and Cohen Bell (5th grade) kick off the 2018-19 school year at Redland Elementary School in Wetumpka. Jada enjoys cheer, tumbling, traveling, swimming, talking to friends and math. Her parents are Michael and LaDedra Frazier. Cohen’s parents are Louie and Rachel Bell. He loves to play baseball with his travel team, and also enjoys basketball, swimming and drawing.
Gerry Paige Smith
Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 82 Calendar/Support Groups 92 Mom to Mom
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Editor’sNote The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source
I sure have enjoyed the lazy days of summer, and can’t really believe it’s over already! A break from the morning rush, plus sunsets spent by the pool have been so nice. As they say, all good things must come to an end. But with the end of one good thing comes the beginning of another! Back to school may bring with it earlier mornings and more scheduled evenings, but getting back into a routine can be positive for parents and children. Our seven-year-old, Grace, has had an action packed summer, but all the later evenings and extra activities do eventually end up taking their toll on her behavior. Grumpy Grace gets in trouble a lot more often than Rested Grace. Getting her back on a normal bedtime schedule will help, and as an added bonus, will give me and Jason a little more time alone in the evenings. Anna is beginning her senior year and it will be a busy one! College applications, a senior thesis and speech to write, along with her other studies and a part-time job will keep her plate (and ours) full. So here we go...it’s time to transition Back to School for our family and yours! August is our Back to School Issue and you will find plenty of helpful information for a successful 2018-19 school year! First up, read Sara Lyon’s article, Taking the Stress Out of Back to School Mornings. She provides tried and true ways for making mornings run more smoothly by spending a little time preparing the evening before. Christa Hines shares advice for Keeping Your Middle Schooler Organized, including creating a homework station and selecting a calendar. All of her ideas are meant to help us come alongside our tweenager with some assistance, while still letting their independence bloom. Our 2018 After School Activities Guide is full of enrichment opportunities for your kids. You’ll find details and registration dates for dance and gymnastics, art and music, team sports and individual sports, and much more. Our advertisers are highlighted and we ask, as always, that you check out their website or give them a call first. They are excited and waiting to serve you and your children. From our family to yours, have a wonderful school year. Let’s all enjoy watching our kids learn and grow and achieve!
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.
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Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com
Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Sandy Barfoot Robert Coggin, MD Richard Dennis Mark Gregston Christa Melnyk Hines Emilie Johnson Dr. Charles Ledbetter Sara Lyons Dr. Ann Roy Moore John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith
Cover Photography Maria Wiggins www.lolafineartphotography.com
Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com
Associate Publisher Gena Hill Digital Manager Scott Davis Advertising Opportunities Stephanie Parsons, VP of Client Services (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com
Ad Design Tim Welch
DeAnne
Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell Member
deanne@montgomeryparents.com Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2018 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.
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
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Prescription opioids can be ADDICTIVE and DANGEROUS.
IT ONLY TAKES A LITTLE TO LOSE A LOT. www.alabamapublichealth.gov/pharmacy 7
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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond
Our Kids Won’t Stop Fighting Q: We have a boy, 6, and a girl, 9, who fight constantly about everything under the sun. My husband and I have a good marriage. We hardly ever have a serious disagreement about anything, so it’s hard for us to understand what has led to our kids’ inability to get along. In any case, their fighting has become very draining, especially to me because I homeschool and am with the children much more than is my husband. When they fight, I generally try to figure out which of them was in the wrong and make him or her apologize. My husband thinks that’s not helping. What do you think? A:
A much wiser man than I once said, “Forced apologies are morally meaningless.” In your situation, does the child who apologizes truly think he or she was in the wrong? No. When siblings have conflict, each of them thinks he/she has been the victim of some insult or offense from the other. It takes much more maturity and wisdom than is possessed by 6- and 9-year-old children
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
to see things from another person’s point of view. Is the apology, therefore, sincere? No. I suppose an argument could be made that it is “good practice,” but that’s idealistic thinking. The fact is that these forced apologies are probably making matters worse. What has led to your children’s inability to get along is their innate selfcenteredness. You and your husband have obviously modeled what a properly loving relationship looks (and sounds) like. But as I’ve pointed out many times in this column and elsewhere, parenting is not deterministic. That is the Freudian myth. As parents of prior generations understood, “every child has a mind of his own.” Good parenting does not guarantee a good outcome (and vice versa). Neither of your children are interested in a good relationship. They each want their own way. You and your husband want a good relationship. Each of you is willing to sacrifice self-interest to that end. It will be more than a few years before your kids are able to do the same – to put relationship above self - with one another or anyone else.
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When parents “referee” sibling conflicts, things always go from bad to worse. For this reason, I nearly always recommend that parents not engage in trying to determine who did “it,” who did what to whom, who said what, who looked at the other sibling a certain way, etc. Hold both children equally accountable for disrupting the peace of the household. The first disruption of any given day earns both kids a good amount of time in their respective rooms (or separate rooms if they share space). That’s the warning shot. The second infraction earns them confinement for the remainder of the day – without electronic entertainment of any sort – and early bedtime. In my experience, consistent enforcement of this consequence-based program will begin to show good results within a couple of weeks and cure within a couple of months (albeit occasional enforcement may still be necessary for up to six months). The key is dispassion on your part. The emotional consequences of the problem must belong to the children, and the children alone. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
www.montgomeryparents.com
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Succeed at a high school where
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Find out how the Alabama School of Math and Science can lead you on a path to success. ASMS is our state’s only fully public, residential high school for highly motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities.
Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. The 2018 senior class earned $10 million in merit-based scholarships and scored a composite 29.7 on the ACT.
Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your online application September 1, 2018 at www.asms.net.
Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.
Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604 251.441.2100 - www.asms.net admissions@asms.net
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Hog Days of Summer
August 18 * 3-9 p.m. Union Station Train Shed, 300 Water Street. BBQ & music celebration raising money for Hogs for the Cause, a non-profit organization helping families affected by pediatric brain cancer. An Americanathemed music component consisting of three bands will rock the shed, and a Kids’ Zone complete with inflatables, arts and crafts, and games will be provided for enjoyment by guests of all ages. Advance tickets are $10 and day of show tickets are $15. For more info, visit www. hogdaysofsummer.com/.
August 4, 11, 18 & 25 * 11 a.m. Old Alabama Town’s Loeb Reception Center, 301 Columbus St. Spend every Saturday of August traveling the world in the cool confines of the auditorium in Old Alabama Town. For the seventh year, Landmarks Foundation offers exciting seated trips led by seasoned travelers who will take us on four free VICARIOUS VACATIONS! August 4: Planes, Trains & Automobiles - The Journey from Lima to Machu Picchu, presented by Rich and Christy Anderson; August 11: A Cruise to the Orkney Islands & Iceland, by Ann and Steve Linder; August 18: World War I Battlefields, by Jim Hodgson and Steve Brickley; and August 25: Hiking Mt. Rainier’s Wonderland Trail, by McDowell Crook. Free to the public. For more info, visit www.landmarksfoundation.com/events/ upcoming-events/ or call (334) 240-4500.
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Baseball Season Military Wednesdays Aug. 1 @ 12:05 p.m.; Aug. 8 & 22 @ 6:35 p.m. Military men and women get discounted concession prices and are honored throughout the game with special recognition and more! Kids Day Sunday/Bark in the Park August 12, 19 & 26 * 5:05 p.m. Kids 14 and under can play catch on the field before the game and run the bases after the final out presented by Coca-Cola. Bring your dogs to the game for free and enjoy special promotions all game long. One dog per adult.
Military Open House at the Art Museum
August 23 * 5:30-7:30 p.m. All active-duty, military veterans and their immediate families are invited to join us for a free summer evening of family fun. Guests will enjoy art-making activities, music, and a familyfriendly dinner. This event is our way of saying thank you for your service. For more info, call (334) 625-4333 or visit https:// mmfa.org/discover/military-open-house/.
Dollar Dog Tuesdays August 21 & 28 * 6:35 p.m. Fans can purchase hot dogs for only $1! Alabama/Auburn Night August 25 * 6:05 p.m. Celebrate the biggest rivalry in college football! Wear your favorite team apparel and compete all night to see who will emerge victorious! MAX fireworks following the game. For more info on any of these events, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255.
Montgomery Dragon Boat Festival
September 8 * Gates open at 9 a.m. with aerial demonstrations featuring the ACC F-22 Raptor Demo Team beginning around 11:30 a.m. at the 187th Fighter Wing, Alabama Air National Guard, 5187 Selma Hwy, Montgomery. Bring the kids for this FREE family-friendly event for all ages. Parking is at several off-site locations, with bus transportation to the base. Visit www.RedTailAirshow.com, or www.187fw.ang.af.mil/AirShow. Call (334) 394-7157 for more info. Montgomery Parents I August 2018
August 25 * 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Riverfront Park, 355 Commerce Street. More than 60 teams from central Alabama and beyond converge to compete in this fundraiser which culminates in a dragon boat race. Off the water, browse various goods from local exhibitors and artists. Live music and food from local vendors will also be featured. Don’t miss the 2nd annual Gun Island Chute SUP CUP standup paddleboard competition on the Alabama River! For more info, call (334) 6259411 or visit https://montgomerydragonboat.org/. 10
Montgomery Symphony Presents Broadway Under the Stars August 23 * 7:30-10 p.m. Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Blount Cultural Park. Picnic baskets and coolers are welcome at this FREE concert of Broadway show tunes performed lakeside. Gates open at 5 p.m for picnicking. $40 reserves your parking, table & chair, catered dinner, and a drink ticket! This fundraiser picnic is open to all and supports the scholarship programs of the Montgomery Symphony League. Call (334) 240-4004 for details.
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ASF General Auditions
On Saturday, August 11, Alabama Shakespeare Festival is hosting local auditions for adults, kids and teens for the 2018-19 season. Callbacks will be August 12 & 13. Kid and teen roles are available in our holiday show. Children 7 years and older are welcome to audition. This production begins rehearsal on Tuesday, October 23, and closes on Sunday, December 30. Register online at http://asf.net/auditions/ for an audition time.
4th Annual ‘Stuff the Truck’ Food Drive
August 25 * 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sturbridge Winn Dixie, 7946 Vaughn Road. In conjunction with Alabama News Network, Tie and Doll, Inc. will collect non-perishable food to feed individuals and families in need in the River Region Area. All donations will be given to Montgomery Public Schools Backpack Program. Call (334) 603-2663 for more info.
Family-Friendly Theatre
Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre presents The Secret Garden through August 12. This musical is a family favorite and is suitable for all ages. Tickets are $12 in advance and $14 at the door (if available) and can be purchased by calling (334) 595-0854 or online at cc.prattvilleal.gov.
August 11 * 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center. This is a FREE event with fun for the whole family, including vendors, speaker series, prizes, photo booth, man cave, kiddie play area with train ride, and much more! For more info or booth space, e-mail madeformoms@wsfa.com.
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics
What’s New With Flu It’s that time of year again when the kids are getting back to school, getting back with their friends, and being exposed to new illnesses. As you probably remember, the flu season last year was especially bad. it lasted into the late spring with even a few cases during the summer. It resulted withcountless days being lost at school and work along with the misery of the illness itself. There were almost 200 children in the U.S. who died from the flu. One death even occurred in our own community. One reason for this unfortunate situation was that the vaccine did not match up well with the strains of flu that were actually causing illness. Another reason is that about 80% of the children who died did not receive the vaccine. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta, the World Health Organization (WHO), The Food and Drug Administration (FDA), and vaccine manufacturers constantly monitor the strains of flu originating in other parts of the world, especially in China where flu strains often originate. These organizations have identified four strains of
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
the influenza virus that they feel most likely to cause illness this season. Three types of injectable influenza vaccines will be available this year. One is called trivalent which will contain the two type A strains and one type B strain. Another is called quadrivalent which will contain both type A strains and both type B strains. These are inactive strains of the flu virus and will not cause one to get the flu. Either is acceptable and one is not preferred over the other. There is also a third injectable flu vaccine for individuals over 65 years old which contains a larger amount of each of the flu strains. Last year the nasal flu vaccine was not available because it had been found that previous forms of this vaccine did not produce enough of an immune response to prevent illness. This year, however, the nasal flu vaccine will be available. It will contain two strains of both the type A and type B flu which are live viruses but weakened and modified designed to not cause influenza illness. It is approved to be used between 2 and 50 years of age. It is not recommended for pregnant women, some individuals with
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chronic illnesses, or people with weakened immune systems. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends the injectable flu shot as the preferred method of immunization since it has consistently been more effective in the past. However, the nasal spray is acceptable for those who prefer it. The flu shot may be given as young as 6 months of age. It is highly recommended for children with chronic illnesses such as asthma, diabetes, sickle cell disease, and kidney disease since they are more likely to develop more serious illness and require hospitalization. The flu vaccine should be available in September. You may contact your health care provider to receive the vaccine. Remember, that without receiving the vaccine, you just insure that you or your child will be susceptible to getting the flu. With the vaccine, you are doing all you can do to keep yourself and your children healthy. Dr. Coggin received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and did his pediatric residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. He began private practice in Mississippi and has been in Montgomery since 1983. He has two married daughters, one in Montgomery and one in Orlando, Florida. He enjoys college sports with his wife Cathy who is an attorney.
www.montgomeryparents.com
Engineering Curriculum \ Robotics Club \ Cyber Patriots Club \ Broadcasting
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He could build things with his blocks from a very young age. He loves experimenting. Those interests should be nurtured, molded, cultivated. Thoughtful guidance will broaden his knowledge and keep him fascinated. Giving him opportunities that he never imagined. This is Catholic. Montgomer y C atholic Preparator y S cho ol
Grades K4 - 12
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Welcome Forward I am so excited that school is in session beginning August 6. Our teachers are ready, our buildings are ready, and my guess is that many of our parents are very ready for the doors to open. Most of the time at the start of a new year we say “welcome back!” But this is a very special year; this year we are saying “welcome forward!” Our focus this year is moving forward. We are stepping up and working forward to a higher level. There are a number of positive changes this year ranging from changes in the classroom to improvements in our financial condition. We are working to get better everyday.
Our goals this year include helping close the learning gaps among various groups of students, helping those students who have fallen behind their peers, improving our learning environments, continuing our improvements in student discipline, providing more avenues for communication for parents and the community, and continuing to improve our financial situation. Moving forward takes all of us. It is critical that parents become more involved in their children’s education. Join your PTA or PTO, communicate with your child’s teachers, counselors and administrators, and talk to your child everyday about school. Business owners, we need you not only to donate “stuff”, but to act as role models to help us and your future workforce prepare for the world of work. Community members we need volunteers and
mentors. Call the school in your neighborhood and talk with the principal about that schools specific needs. An old movie featured a racecar driver breaking off his rearview mirror and declaring “what is behind me is not important”. Well what is behind us is important if for no other reason than remembering what we have done right and being certain we don’t repeat our mistakes. However, we are focused on what is in front of us. There will certainly be twists and turns as we move, but our focus is on the future of the system and driving toward our goals. To our students, faculty and parents Welcome Forward!
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Dr. Ann Roy Moore is a teacher. For more than four decades, Dr. Moore has educated the children of Alabama. From her first post as a pre-school teacher, to her administrative work as a principal, central office curriculum specialist, superintendent, and her mentoring the next generation of teachers as an adjunct professor at colleges and universities, teaching is her passion. She became MPS interim superintendent in January of 2018 and was named superintendent effective June 1, 2018.
N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2018 2011
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ACADEMICS ATHLETICS ACHIEVEMENT Macon East Academy is a college preparatory school committed to providing students with a safe, nurturing, environment that promotes academic achievement, patriotism, and belief in God through Christian doctrine. We provide students the opportunity to reach the full potential of their gifts and talents through the following benefits: • SMALL CLASS SIZES
• FLEXIBLE SCHEDULING
• COUNSELING & ADVISEMENT
• ACCELERATED CURRICULUM
• DUAL ENROLLMENT
• COMPETITIVE ATHLETICS
• SAFE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
• FINE ARTS & FOREIGN LANGUAGE
• AFFORDABLE TUITION
• STUDENT LEADERSHIP
MACON EAST ACADEMY
15396 Vaughn Road
Cecil, Alabama 36013 - Just a few minutes east of Chantilly Parkway Telephone: 334.277.6566 Web: maconeast.net You’re always welcome, so please get in touch with our Admissions Office and come for a campus tour. We would love to show you around! Leadership scholarship15opportunities are available. www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents l
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Montgomery County Schools
Catholic Welcomes New Basketball Coach
Michael Curry has been hired as the new head coach for varsity boys’ basketball at Montgomery Catholic. “I am so excited to be joining the Montgomery Catholic family.,” he said. “This is truly an honor and I look forward to building on the strong foundation that has been laid in this program.” Curry comes to Catholic with a long history of high school and collegiate basketball coaching. He spent the past five seasons with the Alabama State University Hornets as an assistant men’s basketball coach. Prior to this, he served as an assistant coach for seven seasons at Troy University, where he was instrumental in bringing home the Trojans’ first-ever Sun Belt regular season title in 2010. In 2002, Curry started his college coaching career at Okaloosa-Walton after four seasons as head basketball coach at Lee High School in Montgomery. Six of his high school players received college basketball scholarships and one was named Metro Montgomery 6A player of the year. “We are so excited to welcome Coach Curry to our Montgomery Catholic family,” said Athletic Director Daniel Veres. “I believe the student athletes will be blown away by who he is as a coach and by how well he will connect with them as a mentor and leader.” Born into an Air Force family, Curry moved all over the world before settling in Selma, where his father, CMsgt. Thomas Curry, taught RCIA classes at Queen of Peace Catholic Church in Selma following his retirement. A 1989 Selma High School graduate, Curry played basketball and ran track. As a senior, he was voted Most Valuable Player and finished third in the state high jump. He played basketball at Chattahoochee Valley Community College and at Georgia Southwestern College before earning a bachelor’s degree in physical education from Alabama State in 1996. Construction is ongoing at Montgomery Catholic for a 31,000 square-foot gymnasium with stadium seating and capacity for 800. The gym will have two regulation basketball courts, a weight room, concession area, offices, locker rooms and conference rooms. The new gym is projected to open in 2019. Montgomery Parents I August 2018
Brew Tech Students Enter Video in National Contest
Brewbaker Technology Magnet High students produced a video that is in the running for a national award. Their video, “Your Final Ride,” was the Alabama statewide winner in the Greatest Save Teen PSA Program. It was entered into the national contest against 19 other regional winners produced by students from around the nation on issues such as abduction, relationship abuse and date rape. The students responsible for the winning video were Kristen Williams, Sidney Card, Catherine Mckensie, Ginny Blue Smith and Sean Godfrey. Their teacher is Lindsey Hodnett, Brew Tech advertising and design instructor. You can view the video at: https://vimeo.com/album/5175731.
Churchill Benefits from Partnership with Church
July 14 was a day of preparation and service at Churchill Academy. Churchill leadership and instructors worked over the summer to set up classrooms and the school for the upcoming school year. Church of the Highlands partnered with them on the church’s annual Serve Day, helping with many projects that the school was working on. Churchill was excited to be part of Serve Day 2018 and thanks all who were involved in bringing a day of service to the school. 16
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Montgomery County Schools
Montgomery Academy Juniors Participate in Bridge Builders Alabama
ACA Summer Sport Volleyball Camp
Alabama Christian Academy’s summer sport camps are a great way to make the most out of summer vacation. The ACA Athletic Department offers instructional sports camps for all ages. Elementary students, as well as middle school students, can learn the fundamentals of a variety of sports from the experienced ACA coaching staff. June kicked off with a full week of volleyball camp. Young athletes learned the fundamentals of the sport as well as a better understanding of the overall game. Special thanks to the ACA varsity volleyball players who invested their time.
A group of Montgomery Academy juniors recently participated in the Bridge Builders Alabama Junior Leadership Conference 2018, which concluded with their induction as members into the organization: Martha Ernest, Sally Shegon, Ann Jordan Williams, Ellie Gilmore, Drew McDaniel, William Robertson, Eric Doh and Mac Main. The mission of Bridge Builders Alabama is to develop among high school students a group of future leaders who will lay aside individual, social, economic and cultural differences and work for the benefit of all.
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Success Unlimited 2018 Graduation
Success Unlimited Academy held its 16th graduation commencement exercises on May 18, in the worship center at St. James United Methodist Church. Fifty-four seniors received their diplomas in front of a packed auditorium filled with family, friends and faculty. Senior Jamal Johnson and his mother, Director of Finance Pam Johnson, opened the evening by singing a special music selection. Headmaster Susan Alred welcomed the guests followed by the invocation led by Vice Principal Lauren Morgan. The senior slideshow presentation brought laughter and tears as did the headmaster’s address. Awards and scholarships were a highlight of the evening as were the valedictorian address by Jordan Andrews and salutatorian address by Jamal Johnson. Senior Class Vice President Mary Rogers and Senior Class President Jamal Johnson presented the 2018 Senior Legacy Gift—a new flag and flag pole to Headmaster Alred. The flag will wave proudly at True Divine Field where the Mustangs will play their inaugural football season this upcoming fall. Keynote speaker Mitch Hamilton of Waterbreak Ministries challenged the senior class to “follow their dreams and to never give up.” After much anticipation, diplomas were awarded. Salutatorian Jamal Johnson and valedictorian Jordan Andrews are shown. Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. 19
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Montgomery County Schools
Businesses Help Feed Students During MPS Experiential Learning Camp
Bear Wins National Magnet School Award
The Montgomery County board of education recognized Bear Exploration Center Principal Elizabeth Hill after Bear was named a National Magnet School Merit Award winner. This year, 389 magnet schools applied for national merit awards, making 2018 the most competitive in the award program’s history. Bear was the only magnet school in the state to win an award. Hill, third from left, is shown at the board meeting with Superintendent Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Board President Robert Porterfield and Communication Director Tom Salter.
Area businesses helped MPS Special Education Department kick off its fourth annual Summer Experiential Learning Camp by providing supplies to keep the students fed while they learn. The program was held for students who receive special education services and could benefit from academic enrichment to retain or sharpen skills. They all are entering seventh and eighth grades after attending Carr, McKee, Georgia Washington and Southlawn middle schools last school year. The program received a boost from Sean Kumar, chief philanthropy officer of Ellis Jaxon Farms, and Ty Holston, sales associate of Edgenuity, who donated snacks and cooking supplies for the camp. The camp was held at Jefferson Davis High and provided students with daily field trips to explore plants and animals and participate in art, sports, dance, cooking and nutrition/wellness classes. Shown here are Andrew Rhee, senior software architect of Ellis Jaxon Farms, Kumar, and Dr. Quebe Bradford, student achievement coordinator.
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MA Announces New Head of School
The Montgomery Academy board of trustees announces the unanimous confirmation of John McWilliams as the new head of school. McWilliams will be the ninth head of school and, as a 1996 Montgomery Academy graduate, is the first alumnus to serve in this role. McWilliams received his B.A. degree in history from Yale University and holds a Master’s degree in liberal studies (MALS) from Dartmouth College. Upon graduation from Yale, he returned to Montgomery Academy to teach in the history department and earned the McLemore Award for Excellence in Teaching, an annual award selected by faculty members identifying a teacher who instills in their students not only knowledge, but also a love of learning, exemplifying the best of the profession. McWilliams also coached speech & debate and is a National Speech & Debate Association Two Diamond Coach. He has acted in various capacities at the Academy including Middle School director, associate head of school, acting interim head of school, and Upper School director. “I have loved being a part of the MA community ever since I walked onto the campus as a student in the fall of 1991,” McWilliams said. “In all that I have done as a student, alumnus, teacher and administrator, I have tried to live out the core of MA’s mission–the pursuit of excellence. I plan to continue that pursuit in my new role as head of school.” An involved citizen of the River Region, McWilliams is a graduate of Leadership Montgomery’s Legacy Class XXXII, has served on the board of Clefworks, the associate board of the Family Sunshine Center and Friends of the Cloverdale Playhouse. He has served his alma mater, Yale University, as the Montgomery Director of the Yale University Alumni Schools Committee and as an alumni interviewer. As a patron of the arts, he has performed onstage at Alabama Shakespeare Festival and, most recently, at Cloverdale Playhouse in both director and actor roles. McWilliams is an active member of First United Methodist Church Montgomery, where he sings in the choir and has served on numerous committees. McWilliams is married to Sarah Strickland McWilliams, and they have a four-year-old daughter, Anna Elizabeth.
PHYSICIANS TO CHILDREN
welcomes
DR. MALISSA HOY Now accepting new patients ages newborn to 18 years P H YS ICIA N S TO C H IL D R E N Taylor Medical Complex 470 Taylor Rd, Suite 210 Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 293-5033 P
P H YS I C I A N S TO C H I L D R E N C h i l d re n s A L . o rg / p hys i c i a n s - t o - c h i l d re n
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Montgomery County Schools
ECA’s Fifth Grade Attends Marine Science Adventure
Forest Avenue Student Joins Cast of Annie
A star is born as a rising fifth-grader at Forest Avenue Academic Magnet joins the cast of Annie at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Eden Gay portrays Tessie, one of the orphans, in ASF’s production of the classic musical. It is her first time performing at ASF, and her mother said that the FAAM faculty and staff have been tremendously supportive of her.
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
The fifth-grade class of Evangel Christian Academy recently attended the Marine Science Adventures Gulf Shores Beach Retreat. The students were able to explore several ecosystems including the estuaries, marshes, tidal pools, sand dunes and the maritime forests. The class also enjoyed exploring marine life by casting nets into the bay. In total, the students observed more than 65 different kinds of species from Gulf Shores. One of their favorite memories was going on a night hunt on the beach during which they caught several ghost crabs. They also had fun relaxing in the pool and making sand castles. The trip also included a history lesson at Fort Morgan. The students enjoyed a tour of the fort and learned many interesting facts from a tour guide dressed in period wool clothing despite the extreme heat. The class ended with a trip to Alligator Alley to see alligators of all ages. The students were amazed as they witnessed the large reptiles at feeding time. Overall, the parents, teachers and students had an unforgettable trip making memories that will last a lifetime.
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Macon East Class of 2018 Earns More Than $4.8 Million in Scholarships
The Class of 2018 bid its final farewell as students on the Macon East Academy campus at the annual Senior Send-off. Always a special day for the seniors and their families, the students enjoyed one last breakfast with Mrs. Vickie, followed by the senior slide show, recognition of honor graduates and, finally, the traditional balloon release. Tyler Watson was named as the class valedictorian, and Bryson O’Malley the class salutatorian. A number of students were honored to receive the 13+ pin to be worn over their heart at graduation. These students have attended MEA since kindergarten or preschool. Several members of the graduating class have spent just one or two years at Macon East but have quickly learned what it means to be a part of the Knights family. The eclectic Class of 2018 has succeeded in the classroom and in athletics. Earning more than $4.8 million in academic and athletic scholarships, the 32-member class set a school record with 1/4 of the class scoring over a 28 on the ACT exam. They also earned four State Championship trophies this year in volleyball, boys’ basketball, softball and baseball.
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Montgomery County Schools
SUA Holds Successful Summer School
Parma Elected to Supreme Court at Alabama Girls State
Rising senior Catherine Parma was elected to the Supreme Court as an associate justice at this year’s Alabama Girls State. She also served on the Girls State newspaper staff and won the “Good Citizen” award. Alabama Girls State is a week-long, fun-filled, hands-on learning opportunity for some of the best and brightest young women in the State of Alabama. Sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), Alabama Girls State is a premier youth leadership program which offers a one-of-a-kind experience to its delegates.
Students worked hard this summer at Success Unlimited Academy. SUA provides summer school classes for students from the tri-county area and beyond. “This year’s summer school is one of the best! The students are working very hard to earn their credits,” said Vice Principal Lauren Morgan. “Many of the students are enjoying the teachers and school so much that they decided to make SUA their permanent school home.” If you have a student who still needs to make up a credit, consider SUA’s Night School program. Students may attend other schools and still take classes to earn credits toward graduation. Please call (334) 213-0803 for more information.
Auburn University at Montgomery Advances Closer to NCAA Status
Auburn University at Montgomery moved another step closer to full NCAA status when the Warhawks were approved to advance to the final year of the membership process by the NCAA Division II Membership Committee. “The AUM Warhawks look forward to moving into our third year of NCAA Division II candidacy and continuing our progress toward acceptance in the Gulf South Conference,” said AUM Chancellor Dr. Carl Stockton. “I thank our athletics staff for their focus on this process, and I thank our student-athletes and our faculty and staff who have contributed to our progress.” This past year, the Warhawks joined the GSC as a provisional member, and each team was able to play a full conference schedule. The Warhawks were not eligible for postseason play during the first year in the conference but 106 AUM student-athletes were named to the GSC fall, winter and spring academic Honor Rolls. If all benchmarks are completed during this next year, AUM will have completed the process of Division II membership and will be eligible for NCAA and GSC postseason play during the 2019-20 academic year. “The willingness of other units on campus to partner with us in ensuring we have adequate processes in place was instrumental in our approval to Year 3,” said AUM Director of Athletics Jessie Rosa. “They—along with our student-athletes, coaches and staff members— are the reason why we are able to celebrate today.”
Siblings Collect Toiletries for Program
JD Freshmen Come To Teacher’s Aid
Students Tatum and Torrance Richard recently presented Gift of Life Foundation Executive Director Dr. Cheryl Davis 25 bags filled with toiletries for the men enrolled in GOL’s Fathers In Action program. The brother-sister team solicited travel-size hand creams, shampoos, body lotions and conditioners and artfully wrapped them in blue for the men in the program, which teaches fathers about meaningful ways to be an active participant in their child’s life. Tatum, 10, attends Saint James School and Torrance, 8, attends Holy Spirit Catholic Preparatory. The two founded the community service organization T3 to collect toiletries, clothing, socks, snacks and other items for residents in nursing homes and men’s and women’s shelters. For more info about T3, call Kelley Richards (mom) at (334) 590-8572.
Jeff Davis High ninth-graders Mesiyah Wright, Genesis Pickett and Kylah McGough stepped up when their teacher and class needed them. Career and technical education teacher Anita Grayson was feeling under the weather, so these three young ladies offered to help. They assisted students who had trouble formatting their resumes and cover letters and also installed printers on computers to allow students to print and submit their work. Grayson was extremely grateful for their help, calling them “some of Jeff Davis’ finest ninth-graders.” Montgomery Parents I August 2018
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ACA Wins at UCA Cheer Camp
Alabama Christian Academy cheerleaders attended UCA Cheer Camp at Auburn University this summer. They competed in All-American tryouts and final day championships. Twelve ACA cheerleaders were selected as All-Americans: Emily Gray, Kaitlin Tatum, Mattie Davis, Hannah Guy, Morgan Vogel, Ragen Pike, Valerie Jeffers, Carlie Barlow, Macy Kate Owen, Anslee Henry, Jenna Locklier and Emma Reeves. ACA mascot Rex Smith was selected as All-American Mascot. During final camp championships, all three ACA squads were awarded trophies. The varsity squad, coached by Stephanie Solar, won 1st place extreme routine, 1st place cheer, 1st place overall game day experience, and 3rd place sideline. The junior varsity squad, coached by Kathryn Bandy, won 1st place extreme routine, 1st place cheer, 1st place overall game day experience, and 2nd place sideline. The middle school squad, coached by Ashley Paige Smith, won 1st place sideline and 2nd place cheer. ACA mascot, “ACE,” was named mascot camp champion and received a 1st place trophy! ACA 9th-grader, Jenna Locklier, was also named “Jump Off Champion.”
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Montgomery County Schools
Montgomery Catholic Teacher Chosen as Advanced Placement Program Reader
Holy Cross Begins New School Year with Splash
Holy Cross Episcopal School holds a much-anticipated pool party for students to enjoy at the beginning of the school year. The party is held at the Bell Road Y Good Times center and parents and students have a wonderful time with lots of swimming, refreshments and fellowship.
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com.
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
Mindy Walski was selected to participate in the College Board’s Annual AP Reading in Computer Science Principles. Each June, AP teachers and college faculty members from around the world gather in the United States to evaluate and score the free-response sections of the AP Exams. AP Readers are high school and college educators who represent many of the world’s leading academic institutions. The AP Reading is a unique forum in which an academic dialogue between educators is both fostered and encouraged. “The Reading draws upon the talents of some of the finest teachers and professors that the world has to offer,” said Trevor Packer, senior vice president, AP and instruction at the College Board. “It fosters professionalism, allows for the exchange of ideas, and strengthens the commitment to students and to teaching. We are very grateful for the contributions of talented educators like Mindy Walski.” The Advanced Placement Program enables willing and academically prepared students to pursue collegelevel studies – with the opportunity to earn college credit, advanced placement or both – while still in high school. Through AP courses in 38 subjects, each culminating in a rigorous exam, students learn to analyze complex problems, construct solid arguments, and see many sides of an issue – skills that prepare them for college and beyond. Research indicates that students who score a 3 or higher on an AP Exam typically experience greater academic success in college and are more likely to earn a college degree than non-AP students.
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Macon East Baseball Team Named Back-to-Back State Champs Coach Bob Pickett and his varsity baseball team did exactly what they set out to do from the first day of practice in 2018—bring the AISA AA State Title home for a second consecutive year. Going 39-8 for the season, the Knights were solid all year with depth in their pitching and consistency on the defense. Winning the area and receiving a bye through the first round of playoffs, the Knights swept every playoff
series including the championship series vs. Autauga Academy (8-3, 4-3). Going 10-0 on the mound, Macon East’s star catcher since 9th grade became Macon East’s star pitcher in the 2018 season. Drew Baker, tournament and team MVP, will continue to pitch at the collegiate level for Chipola Community College in Marianna, Fla. The return on JC Ceman, Tucker Neven and
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Brock Taunton to MEA, as well as the addition of KC House, Dustin Jones and Kellen Ward gave the Knights the extra talent they needed at the plate and in the field. The Knights graduated nine seniors from the 2018 team, but with a host of juniors and sophomores there is still plenty of talent to lead the team as they make the leap back into 3A competition in 2019. House, Neven and Taunton joined Baker as members of the AISA AA State all-tournament team with several clutch hits and a game-winning performance on the mound in game 2 by Neven. Representing Macon East in the AISA All-Star game on June 4 were seniors Drew Baker and Parker Agnew. Neven, Taunton and Ceman played in the junior all-star game on the same day at Paterson Field.
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ACA Junior & Senior Classes Take Summer Trip to Europe
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 3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882
For a FREE Educational Success Consultation please contact the school office
Alabama Christian Academy had another successful junior-senior trip to Europe. It was a full 10 days of sightseeing with tour guides and experiencing great food for the 55 parents and students who attended. The trip started in Killarney, Ireland, where ACA students were wowed by the magnificent rivers and mountain scenery of the Ring of Kerry. Ireland was filled with touring castles, watching sheep herding on the hillsides and visiting the Book of Wells in Dublin. The ACA students caught a ferry cruise on the Irish Sea, where they reached their next destination, Wales. Incredibly picturesque, Wales did not disappoint. Students toured the Castell Biwmares and had an amazing fish and chips dinner. Day six of the trip, Alabama Christian students made their way to London, England. While in London, they experienced the London Eye; the home of Anne Hathaway and William Shakespeare, Stratford on Avon; the House of Parliament and Westminster Abbey. The next day in London was filled with a visit to Windsor Castle, The North Tower and a three-hour tour of the city full of rich history and architecture. This awesome trip ended with two days in Paris, France. Paris brought amazing sites of The Louvre and Notre Dame. ACA guides had a great idea to have a picnic in the park as a group. ACA has created an environment for students to make enough memories for a lifetime.
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I August 2018
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Lee Band Performs for John Knox Manor
The Lee High School Band performed at John Knox Manor for National Skilled Nursing Care Week in June.
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Trinity and Valiant Cross Team Up for Intensive Cyber Defense Trainings
During the week of June 18-22, Trinity Presbyterian School and Valiant Cross Academy (VCA) teamed up to provide an intensive week of cyber defense training. Eight young men—four from VCA and four from Trinity—completed the five-day CyberCamp curriculum provided by the Air Force Association’s CyberPatriot program and paid for with support from the SAIS Robinson Collaboration Grant. Team members were assisted by cybersecurity major Drew DeLong and CyberCat Riley Wuokko. The five-day camp was hosted by Trinity and led by coaches Adam Pettway (VCA) and Kerri Watson (TPS). Students began the week learning basic cyber defense encryptions, password specifications, plus all the strategies hackers use to violate a network system. They ventured into the administrative details of Windows, learning how to protect both personal and corporate information. Wednesday and Thursday continued with a look at LINUX systems, focusing primarily on basic Ubuntu lines of command. The week’s training culminated in a four-hour competition through the CyberPatriot network where student pairs opened cyber images on virtual machines to find and subsequently close the “holes” in those systems and heighten security settings. With such extensive training, Trinity and VCA anticipate the formation of one or two middle school teams for this upcoming school year. Stay tuned for more exciting growth in this new area of competition and partner-ship! Seated from left are Dalton Adair, Ahlias Leonard, Evan Ware and Oscar Diaz; standing are: Beck Tuley, Yeshua Savage, Colton Chriswell, Drew DeLong and Buddy Watson.
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Montgomery County Schools
Catholic Honors 2017-18 Varsity Athletes
SUA Elects Senior Class Officers and SGA Officers for 2018-19
Success Unlimited Academy announces class officers for the 2018-2019 school year. Senior class officers for 2018-19 are: Kareena Bradford, president; Jalecia Harris, vice president; Rivers Stowers, secretary; Patrick Nielsen, chaplain. Student government officers for 2018-19 are: Shamia McDaniel, president; Hayden Terrell, vice president; Stephen Lane, secretary; Tyler Wood and Juan Suddith, co-chaplains. Representing SUA are SGA President Shamia McDaniel and Vice President Hayden Terrell.
ECA Welcomes New Administrator
Evangel Christian Academy recently welcomed Bobby Johnson as the school’s new administrator. Johnson is no stranger to ECA or Evangel Church, which he has attended since birth. Johnson has served on ECA’s executive board and Evangel Church’s board for more than 10 years. He has also served as the Booster Club president for ECA for two years. Johnson graduated from Troy University with a degree in administration and accounting. He worked for 23 years for Brewbaker Motors LLC and is married to Tracy Johnson, who works for Alfa Insurance. He has two children: Rebecca, who graduated from Evangel in 2015 and Mathew, who will graduate from ECA this year. Montgomery Parents I August 2018
Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School honored its varsity athletes for the 2017-18 year at the annual varsity athletic banquet held at the RSA Activity Center in May. Montgomery Catholic fields 16 varsity team sports throughout the year. High School Principal Justin Castanza recognized the four nominees for the Jimmy Hitchcock Award: Carrie Belsterling, Jessie Clark, Paige Rentfro and Aleigha Walden. Also recognized were Montgomery Catholic’s ninth-grade nominees: D.J. Carter, Hollis Johnson, Nona Johnson and Chloe Walden. Amaris Tyynismaa was recognized for her 4th consecutive 4A Cross Country Championship, and her state championships in the 1600M, and 3200M in indoor track. Montgomery Catholic awarded two scholarships for school tuition. The first was the Coach Ralph Furlong Scholarship, given to D.J. Carter. The second scholarship was the Caitlyn Marianne Wiggins ‘08 Memorial Scholarship, established in 2013 and awarded annually in memory of Wiggins, a 2008 MCPS graduate and varsity athlete who was killed in an automobile accident. Nona Johnson and Claire Mills both received the Caitlyn Marianne Wiggins ‘08 Memorial Scholarship. The top athletes from each sport are nominated for the Knights of the Round Table Award, which recognizes the top male and female athlete of the year. The Knights of the Round Table nominees were BJ Barker, Jessie Clark, Tyler Price, Daniel Reeves, Paige Rentfro and Aleigha Walden. The Montgomery Catholic 2018 Knights of the Round Table are Walden, Barker and Clark. To close the banquet, Deacon Raymond Gueret of Holy Spirit Catholic Church led parents and guests in a final blessing for all of the senior athletes. The 2018 recipient of the Coach Ralph Furlong Scholarship was D.J. Carter, shown at top right with Athletic Director Daniel Veres. Shown at middle right, Nona Johnson and Claire Mills received the Caitlyn Marianne Wiggins ‘08 Memorial Scholarship presented by Caitlyn’s parents, Jim and Lisa Wiggins, her aunt, Andrea Hause Durbin and grandfather, William Hause, Jr. The Montgomery Catholic 2018 Knights of the Round Table Athletes of the year are Aleigha Walden, BJ Barker and Jessie Clark, shown at bottom right. All photos by Total Image. 30
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MEA Softball Reclaims the State Title
One year was long enough for Macon East Academy’s Lady Knights softball team to let the AISA AA State Trophy slip through their hands. Going 4-1 in the state tournament, with a tie breaker game just to keep things interesting, players re-claimed the state title in a 6-4 win over Pickens Academy. A record of 57-12 for the season showed Coach Lott and his team that the more games you play, the better you play together as a team. After losing a few players this season, the Lady Knights picked up a powerhouse in Taylor McKinney. She broke the school record with 16 home runs in one season, and had an ERA of 1.33 on the mound which helped her earn the MVP award in the state tournament. Also named to the all-tournament team were Caroline Capps (pitcher), Dawn Johnson (catcher), and Madisyn Kennedy (shortstop and team MVP for the season). Losing to Autauga Academy, who had stripped them of the state title in 2017, in the Region tournament gave the Lady Knights the fire they needed to finish what they had started at state. The team lost just one senior, Madison McKee, who has committed to play for the Faulkner Eagles. Stepping up to take her place are Kennedy and Johnson. Both represented Macon East in the AISA Junior All-Star game June 5 at Lagoon Park.
Holy Cross Holds New Parent Orientation
Parents new to Holy Cross Episcopal School will gather on August 6 to get acquainted with their new school and to get ready for a new year. Each year, Principal Kathy Taylor addresses parents who gather so they have the information they need to be ready for the first day of school. They learn about exciting events and opportunities in which they can participate and be an active part of their child’s education. They meet teachers and other parents and learn about daily routines such as drop-off and pickup procedures.
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Montgomery County Schools
BTW Grad Honored in NYC
Faulkner Grad Receives Young Alumna Award
Recent Booker T. Washington Magnet High graduate Jordan Brazell and her visual arts teacher, Rachel Dudley, took a trip to the Big Apple recently. The two were honored during a ceremony at Carnegie Hall after winning National Scholastic gold and silver medals! Special thanks to the BTW Fame Foundation for providing support to send Brazell, her mom and Dudley to New York City. The honor capped an extraordinary year for the BTW student. In addition to winning the National Scholastic awards, Brazell won Best in Show in the State Superintendent’s Arts Competition. “(Jordan’s) Advanced Placement portfolio started out as an assignment and evolved into a highly recognized body of work based on artistic merit,” said BTW Principal Quesha Starks. In 2017, she was a member of BTW’s Mayor’s Cup Academic Challenge Team. During her time at BTW, she also was a member of the Future Business Leaders of America and the National Art and History Honor Societies.
A graduate from Faulkner University, Jennifer Robinson was recently honored by her alma mater as the College of Education’s Young Alumna of the Year. After graduating from Faulkner in the fall of 2014, Robinson began substituting for Montgomery Public Schools. While substituting, she was offered a paraprofessional position at Dozier Elementary from March to May 2015. After that job opportunity, she received a kindergarten position at Garrett Elementary, the same school where she finished her college internship. Under the leadership of the principal, she began her first year of teaching and was nominated and awarded The Golden Apple Award in March 2016. Robinson graduated with a Master’s in education in December 2016 from Auburn University in Montgomery and is currently in the Ed.S. program at AUM, expecting to graduate in December 2018. Young Alumna Jennifer Robinson, left, stands with Faulkner’s College of Education Dean Leslie Cowell, Ph.D. after she was presented with her award in February.
2600 Bell Road Montgomery, Alabama 334.277.6690
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Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen Montgomery Parents I August 2018
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Cheer Teams Receive Multiple First-Place Awards at UCA Camp
Trinity Presbyterian School’s cheer teams received multiple first-place awards at UCA Camp, which was held at Auburn University. Varsity received gold ribbons (highest rank) on all evaluations throughout camp, including 1st place in Rally Routine (formerly known as Xtreme Routine), 1st place in Game Day Sideline, and 2nd place in Game Day Cheer. The junior varsity and middle school teams combined for camp this year and competed at the JV level. They received 2nd place in Rally Routine, 2nd place in Game Day Sideline, and 2nd place in Game Day Cheer. The entire Trinity cheer program received the Leadership Award, which is voted on by other cheer squads at camp. They also received the “Banana School” Spirit Award, and an invitation to perform in the pre-game performance of the Citrus Bowl in Florida. Those receiving All-American Awards were Caroline Easterling, Mary Claiborne Johnson, Catherine Parma, Elizabeth Portis, Amanda Roberson and Anna Tucker (varsity), and Ansley Claire Addison and Ansley Tucker (junior varsity). Ellie Slawson was the varsity division jump-off winner, while Anna Tucker was a varsity division jump-off finalist. Anna McMillan was the MS/JV division jump-off winner, while Olivia Kearley was a MS/JV division jump-off finalist. Cheerleaders “pinned,” which exemplify why America needs cheerleaders, were Easterling, Johnson, McMillan, Portis, Kate Hall, Lauren LeGrand and Anna Tucker. Easterling, Parma, Portis and Anna Tucker were invited to try out for UCA staff as camp instructors after high school.
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Montgomery County Schools
MPACT Students Receive Governor Recognition
Gov. Kay Ivey recognized MPACT students for improving the safety of the community by installing smoke detectors in Montgomery neighborhoods.
Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomery parents.com.
MPS Honors Community Partners & Parents
Parents and community partners play an enormous role in helping a school and its students to thrive. With this in mind, the Montgomery Public Schools Family and Community Engagement Office celebrated those who have given the most with the Parent and Community Partners of the Year Recognition Program. Held at Fresh Anointing House of Worship, the program thanked parents and community partners that helped schools and students thrive during the 2017-18 school year. Photos were provided by Ron Handy. Capitol Heights Middle Assistant Principal Shenita Perry and parent piaison Darris McCord are shown honoring the Montgomery Area Food Bank as its Community Partner of the Year and Venisha Williams as Parent of the Year.
SUA Headmaster Honored by UAB
Susan Alred, Success Unlimited Academy’s headmaster, was recognized at the 2018 UAB Top 25 Excellence in Business Award Ceremony recently. This award recognizes alumni for their accomplishments in business. Among the many recipients, Alred was honored for her success in bringing to fruition her vision of establishing a Christcentered academy in the River Region. The school was established originally as a tutoring center with only three students. SUA became an accredited academy in 2000 and currently has an enrollment over 350 students. Alred was surrounded by the top businesses in the state, mainly businesses closely associated and representative of the technology and health science departments; however, this is the first time an alumnus from the School of Education has been honored with this award.
Three Montgomery Academy Student-Athletes Named AHSAA All-Stars
Three student-athletes from Montgomery Academy were named to Alabama High School Athletic Association All-Star teams! From left, Tara Katz (soccer), Isabella Rowland (cross country) and Bradley Westhauser (soccer) represented MA during the North/South all-star competition. Montgomery Parents I August 2018
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LAMP Students Awarded Nat’l Merit Scholarships
Trinity Dance Teams Rock Awards At UDA Camp in Starkville
Trinity Presbyterian School’s dance teams rocked Dance Camp in Starkville, Miss., which was hosted by the Universal Dance Association. The varsity team received a Superior ribbon for Home Pom, placing first in the varsity division, while receiving a Superior trophy, along with a bid to Nationals in Orlando, Fla. The team also received the Camp Super Spirit Stick the second day of camp for the leadership and energy the girls brought to camp. Senior Mary Ann Pittman received a “Pin It Forward” award for standing out as a camp leader and helping others. Several won All-American honors, including Sarah Howe, Mckenzie Parker, Anna Hixon and Hannah McDaniel. The junior varsity dance team received a Superior ribbon for Home Pom, winning first place in the junior varsity division, while receiving a Superior trophy and the “Leadership Award.” Katie Pope received a “Pin It Forward” award, and the following won All-American in the junior varsity division: Parker Dansby, Graci Foshee, Camilla Loard, Hadley Locke, Abby Molina and Pope.
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Three Loveless Academic Magnet Program students have been awarded National Merit Scholarships. Anna Williams, left, was awarded the National Merit University of Alabama Scholarship and plans to earn a degree in international relations. Gary Willford III, center, was awarded the National Merit Auburn University Scholarship and plans to pursue a degree in mathematics. Philip Harden, right, was awarded the National Merit University of Alabama Scholarship and plans to pursue a degree in medicine. They are among the approximately 3,500 recipients nationwide of National Merit scholarships financed by U.S. colleges and universities.
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Montgomery County Schools
Holy Cross Students Enjoy Summer Reading Program
Montgomery Academy Students Attend National YMCA Youth Conference
Montgomery Academy students James Torbert, Sofie Behr, Will Hamlett, Hannah Hale and Carter Chandler attended the YMCA Youth Conference on National Affairs in North Carolina. This program offers opportunities for students to do research in the area of national and international concern; to organize this information into a documented proposal; to engage in intensive discussion and to debate these proposals with understanding young people from other states.
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
Holy Cross Episcopal School students look forward to coming in to their school library so that they can enjoy a little reading in the summer. Students in grades 2-6 enjoy reading an assigned common book which they will discuss when they return to school. Students in other grades are also encouraged to use their library. Phoebe Osborne and Rowan Osborne enjoy selecting books from the age-appropriate list for each grade which is designed to offer students an opportunity to enjoy books they might not have encountered during the school year while expanding their interests in different authors and subject matter both in non-fiction and fiction. From left, second-grader Rowan Osborne and kindergartner Phoebe Osborne.
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Macon East Students Honored to be Chosen Hitchcock Nominees
SUA Fine Arts Kick Off August 22
The 2018 Jimmy Hitchcock Memorial Award banquet was held May 3 at Frazer United Methodist Church. The objectives of the program are to recognize Christian leadership in athletics and to encourage and inspire others to emulate the man whose memory is perpetuated by this award. The qualities of a Hitchcock nominee are strong personal character, dependability, 100% effort, team leadership, church leadership, school activities leadership, and scholastic leadership. Each Montgomery area school nominates senior athletes who possess these qualities. From this group of outstanding athletes, one female and one male are chosen to receive the coveted Jimmy Hitchcock Memorial Award. This year’s nominees representing Macon East Academy were Logan Goree and Madison McKee. Goree was a three-sport athlete who lettered in football, basketball and soccer. He was a member of both Macon East AISA AA state basketball championship teams. He also participated on the AISA All-Star team in both football and basketball. McKee was a two-sport athlete at Macon East lettering in volleyball and softball. She helped lead this year’s teams to recapture the AISA AA state title in both sports and will continue her softball career at Faulkner University. Each year select freshmen are also recognized for their outstanding qualities in athletics, the classroom and community, as well as their potential to be future Hitchcock award nominees. Georgia Blaze and Tanner Moore were selected as Macon East’s freshman certificate winners for 2018. Blaze is a Knights cheerleader and plays volleyball, basketball and softball. Moore participates in football, basketball, baseball and the fishing team.
The Success Unlimited Academy fine arts department is gearing up for an evening of music, artistry and entertainment at the 2018 Art Café. The recruitment effort is slated for Tuesday, August 22, at 6 p.m. in the Vaughn Road Campus Hawkins Hall. Art Café will spotlight the many opportunities available within the fine arts department for students who are interested in vocal and instrumental music along with performing and visual arts. Attendees will enjoy coffee, cappuccino and a variety of baked goods. The SUA fine arts programming offers students invaluable tools to jump start their career choice, secure college scholarships and create works that contribute to a greater global community. Contact Fine Arts Director Benita Edwards at (334) 213-0803 for more info. Work seen here is by 2017 SUA graduate Briana Chavez, who received a scholarship to the renowned Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD).
SMILE,
334-272-4900 MAIL@KINGRYORTHODONTICS.COM 8101 SEATON PLACE, MONTGOMERY, AL 36116 31 BRIDGE ST, THE WATERS, PIKE RD, AL 35064
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Montgomery County Schools
Lanier JROTC Kicks Off MACAO Meal Makers Program
The Sidney Lanier High JROTC finished the 2017-18 school year strong by volunteering at the Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA). MACOA’s Meal Makers program offers a unique volunteer opportunity. MACOA welcomes businesses, civic organizations, Sunday school classes, and school groups to help assemble meals during weekday mornings. Lanier’s JROTC Team was the group that officially kicked off the Meals Makers program and the first to wear the newly designed Meals Makers aprons. Students packed and prepared meals for volunteers to deliver to the elderly. They worked from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. to plate and seal the meals in containers.
ACA Holds Camp Eagle
Camp Eagle on the Alabama Christian Academy campus is a FUNtastic, first-class, Christian day camp for ALL kids ages 5 through 5th grade. Camp Eagle directors Nate and Daysha Sanford have a combined 30 years’ experience in creating amazing camp memories for our campers. The entire Camp Eagle staff believe in creating a positive, creative, safe and FUN Environment for each and every camper! Every day something special is planned, from swimming to field trips, crafts, games and sports activities. At Camp Eagle, we are committed to making every summer the best summer! Montgomery Parents I August 2018
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ACCREDITED K4 THROUGH 12TH GRADE I N D E P E N D E N T C O L L E G E - P R E PA R AT O R Y S C H O O L
EXTRAORDINARY EDUCATION EXTRAORDINARY ENVIRONMENT EXTRAORDINARY EXPECTATIONS trinitywildcats.com
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Trinity is Montgomery’s foremost educational institution, binding academic excellence with Christian values. Providing a challenging college-preparatory education, Trinity offers a rigorous academic program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. Our extraordinary educators at Trinity strike the perfect balance as they encourage students to strive for excellence, while emphasizing Christ-like character above all else. “The Trinity Experience” produces leaders who possess mental, physical and spiritual strength. 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 is available. Discount offered to our military families. 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.
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UPPER SCHOOL www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents ONE CAMPUS
It is time to start a new school year! As Pike Road Schools prepares to open a third campus, the Pike Road family has had a busy, productive summer. Pike Road had two of the six Alabama nominees for the Presidential Awards for Excellence in Mathematics and Science Teaching (PAEMST). Alabama finalists’ applications will be forwarded to the national level to be evaluated by a team of judges at the national level. Britney Fureigh, fourth grade, was selected for math teaching, and Maria Franco, third grade, was selected for science teaching. These are two great examples of the excellent educators in Pike Road, and we are proud that there efforts have been recognized by others! Pike Road educators continue to learn, improve, and share with other educators
throughout the summer. Ten Pike Road Elementary School Lead Learners led by Beth Sanders and Natalie Tucker made presentations at the Alabama Educational Technology Conference in June, sharing the amazing work that is being done in Pike Road Schools with educators from around Alabama. The faculty of Pike Road High School participated in A+ College Ready Training to prepare to offer Advanced Placement courses this school year. Of course, there have been many more examples of the dedicated, talented educators in Pike Road leading others and preparing in their free time to prepare for another year of learning. Pike Road Schools will have three campuses this year to meet our growing needs. Pike Road High School (grades 8-11) will be located on the Georgia Washington campus, Pike Road Middle School (grades 5-7) will be located on the Historic campus, and Pike Road Elementary School (grades K-4) will be located on the Founding campus. This year will mark the first year Pike Road has a full array of varsity athletics
competing in the Alabama High School Athletic Association Class 3A. Our band program is continuing to grow as is the rest of our arts program. Pike Road Schools welcomes Vicki Davis as the new principal of Pike Road Middle School. Mrs. Davis comes to Pike Road from Dothan, where she was an award winning principal at Highlands Elementary School. As we begin the fourth year of Pike Road Schools, we look forward to continued growth and excellence as our students prepare for their futures by living out our mission to think, innovate, and create! We invite you to come see the incredible work that is happening in Pike Road Schools! Chuck Ledbetter has been an educator for 28 years. He has earned a B.A. in history from Auburn University; a Masters of Education in history from AUM; and a doctorate in educational leadership from Auburn University. Chuck Ledbetter was a history teacher for 11 years, an assistant principal, a middle school principal, a high school principal, assistant superintendent for curriculum and for finance, and is in his ninth year as a superintendent. He is married to Kim and has three daughters, two sons-in-law, and four grandchildren.
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PRHS Student Named Miss Alabama Pre-Teen
Arica Haywood of Pike Road earned the prestigious title of the 2018 National American Miss Alabama Pre-Teen at the state pageant held in Birmingham July 7. She also won the Spokesmodel and Top Model awards, and placed in many other areas of competition. In the fall, she will compete at the National Pageant in Anaheim, Calif. Haywood is a rising 8thgrader at Pike Road Historic School, enjoys dance at Dance Generation of Montgomery, clarinet with Pike Road Patriot Band, soccer and volunteering.
New Pike Road Patriots Coaches Bring Energy to Young Program
With the addition of a new class of students in the 2018-19 school year, the Pike Road Schools Patriots will compete at the varsity level for the first time. In preparation for this exciting milestone, the Pike Road Schools system (PRS) announces the hire of two energetic and experienced coaches: Coach Robb McGaughey, head boys’ basketball coach, and Coach Keegan Bell, assistant boys’ basketball coach. McGaughey is a Montgomery native whose experience includes several successful years as an assistant basketball coach and middle school football coach at Montgomery Academy, and more recently, head coach for the Montgomery Catholic boys’ varsity basketball team. Recruited from Hazel Green, Ala., Bell played college ball at both Vanderbilt University and the University of Tennessee in Chattanooga before playing professionally in Iceland. Building a new program comes with both excitement and challenges, but with community support and collaboration among coaching staff, McGaughey and Bell are prepared and planning for growth even years down the road.
Student-Led Show Raises Money For Montgomery Humane Society
Pike Road 6th-graders Safiya Abdus Salaam, Sydney Carr, Abigail Davis, Hannah DeBoer, Haley Melton, Anna Claire Nolen and Emma Rice were looking for a way to make an impact in their community when they came up with the idea of hosting a talent show to help peers showcase their gifts and talents. Over the course of several months, the girls held tryouts, scheduled and advertised the show, communicated plans with contestants, parents and teachers, collected and formatted music, scheduled judges, planned and budgeted for decorations and awards, created programs, and practiced various talent show roles such as stagehands, sound crew and hosts. Having 44 performances competing, the girls decided to host two separate shows on May 18, one for grades K-3 and one for grades 4-6. The committee also decided to charge a $1 admission and donate their earnings to the Montgomery Humane Society. On May 23, they presented a representative from the Montgomery Humane Society with a check for $1,000.
Pike Road Enters First Year of Varsity Athletics
Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone hosted his weekly talk show, Mondays with the Mayor, at Pike Road Historical School. Doug Amos and Charlie Trotman with WTXK, The Ticket and Mayor Stone interviewed Pike Road School coaches regarding PRS entering the first year of varsity athletics. As Pike Road High School enters its first year of varsity athletics, coaches are challenging teams not to let the young age of their teams (no seniors) to be an excuse, but an opportunity to challenge themselves, grow their own skills, and prepare for years to come. Athletics give PRS students an opportunity to build character and personal strength, while also contributing to a healthy and active lifestyle. While the ultimate goal of PRS is to provide quality educational opportunities for every child in Pike Road, it is also an opportunity for the community to rally together, whether in support of exciting academic progress, athletic success, or other endeavors. 41
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And so it begins! School supplies fill the aisles of local businesses; families rush to squeeze in last minute vacations and memorymaking moments; and teachers, support staff, and administrators hustle to make our schools a welcoming sight for a new wave of students! Each August the faculty and staff in Autauga County Schools anticipate the best school year ever and make a pledge to provide our students with opportunities to shine and excel. Every year our students rise to the challenge and set the bar higher and higher. I anticipate this year to be no different. Faculty and staff will kick off the new school year on August 1 with Teacher
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
Institute. Students will start the 2018-2019 school year on Monday, August 6. Each new school year brings about exciting changes. I want to take a moment to introduce our new principals. Lyman Woodfin will be leading the Bulldogs at Marbury High School to new heights this year. Donna Finch transferred to take the top spot at Daniel Pratt Elementary School, and I am confident that new principal Hosea Addison will have the Prattville Intermediate School Cougars roaring to success. Our new assistant principals are Roderick Hamilton at Prattville High, Martin Jackson at Prattville High, Susan Carter at Prattville Intermediate, Vonda Wilson at Daniel Pratt Elementary and Lindsey Morgan at Second Chance. It is getting close to kick-off of the 2018 football season. The gridiron action heats up the fourth week in August under the leadership of some of the finest group of coaches in the state. The first varsity
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game of the season will be Friday, August 24. Coach Caleb Ross will lead his Prattville Lions against Foley at Stanley Jensen Stadium. The Autaugaville Eagles kick off the season at Arthur Howington Field against Holy Spirit, and the Marbury Bulldogs led by Allen Brothers, will play at Theron Fischer Stadium against Montevallo. Meanwhile, over at Billingsley, Coach Marvin Morton will unleash his team when the Bears travel to Keith High. Make plans to come out and support your team for the first game. Here’s to an awesome year for all of our students! I look forward to sharing their accomplishments with our community throughout this year. 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.
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An evening of Southern Gospel music that you will not forget! Come hear soloists, trios, quartets and choirs share timeless gospel music and sing along with treasured favorites in old-fashioned homecoming style.
Join us for these events plus many more! 305 South Perry Street | 334.834.6310
www.montgomeryfbc.org
TEAM NIGHT
SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 16
6:15 pm • Main Sanctuary
Bring your team and wear your jersey or favorite school colors for this special, back-to-school event featuring a powerful testimony by
JEREMIAH CASTILLE www.montgomeryfbc.org/teamnight 43 www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
Autauga County Schools
Autauga County Tech Center Students Hold Car Show
On June 23, the Autauga County Tech Center held a Summer Edition Autauga Auto Show at 1301 Upper Kingston Road in Prattville. The cars looked like works of art as their colors, shine, gloss, and condition made everyone stop and stare on their parade to their parking place. Autauga County Tech Center charged a small fee for contestants and gave out trophies for the best in three categories: cars, trucks and motorcycles. All money raised for this event went toward four students: Julia Conil in I.T., Aric Huffman in Electronics, Isabella Vaughan in Welding, and Jack Wright in Automobile Mechanics. These students are a part of Skills USA and are enrolled at Autauga County Tech Center. These four students are on a mission to go to the Nationals School Competition. They have worked hard to beat out a lot of other students from other schools. This group started competing within our local high schools, and after winning local went on to Southeastern District Competition. The next step was State competition, and this event was to raise money to go to the Nationals. Wright is one of the students attending Nationals and helped Gordon Allen, a professor at Autauga County Tech Center, put this event together. “I got involved two years ago and became district vice president, and went to the State Championship,” said Wright. “Gordon Allen always tells us, learn all you can, about all you can.” The Nationals will be in Louisville, KY, and all fifty states will be competing. The competition centers around the Occupational Safety Manual. For more info about Skill USA, contact Jack Wright at (334) 717-0775 or Gordon Allen at (334) 462-0908.
Prattville Christian’s Cheerleaders Excel at Camp
Above, Prattville Christian Academy’s junior varsity cheerleaders finished in the top three overall at Cheer Camp. The Lady Panthers also earned first in Chant, third in Rally Routine, third in Cheer, Superior Award, and numerous ribbons. PCA’s varsity cheerleaders, below, earned top honors at Cheer Camp! The Lady Panthers were awarded first place overall in addition to first place in Extreme Rally routine, first place in Sideline Chant, and second place in Cheer. Both the varsity and JV squads were awarded a leadership award voted on by their peers.
PCA Student Attends Special Engineering Program
Prattville Christian Academy incoming sophomore Jenna Stilling attended Oklahoma Christian University’s Engineering Academy as part of its summer honors program learning about engineering and video game evolution. Montgomery Parents I August 2018
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Autauga, Elmore County Students Among Coaches’ Children Scholarship Winners
Elijah Jones from Prattville Christian Academy and Casey Baynes from Tallassee High School are among ten Coaches’ Children Scholarship winners for 2017-18. They were chosen by the scholarship committee of the Alabama High School Athletic Directors & Coaches Association (AHSADCA), said Director Alvin Briggs. The $1,000 needs-based scholarships, presented for the tenth year by the coaches’ group, are being awarded to college-bound students whose parents are active members of the AHSADCA. The scholarships were presented July 20 at the Championship Coaches Awards Banquet during the AHSAA Summer Conference and All-Star Sports Week in Montgomery. “We are pleased to provide this service once again from the AHSADCA to our member coaches and athletic directors,” Briggs said. “We are very thankful for our coaches and administrators who sacrifice so much as teachers and coaches to work with our student-athletes. Their families also make much sacrifice. This is one way the AHSADCA can show its appreciation and help the children at the same time.” At top left, Jones is the son of Coach Leonard Jones and Baynes is the son of Coach Mark Baynes.
PCA Students Complete Huntingdon Program
Prattville Christian Academy students Kendyl Crooks, Jonathan Johnson, Kyle Johnson, Sadie Pickett and John Thornhill recently completed Huntingdon College’s Health Science Academy. Rising seniors are invited to participate in the program based on GPA and interest in future medical careers.
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A GATHERING FOR WOMEN WITH JANEESE SPENCER OF VENTURE LIFE COACHING SATURDAY, AUG. 18 | 9AM F R A Z E R
C H U RC H
$10 | light breakfast | Fellowship Hall | frazer.church
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Elmore County is proud to announce the official launch of our virtual program, “The EDGE” for the 2018-2019 school year! EDGE – Elmore County’s Diverse Gateway to Education – encompasses the cutting edge in education to empower students with tools for success. EDGE is our FREE virtual program available for students in grades 6-12 living in Elmore, Autauga, and Montgomery counties. In this program, students can learn at home with diverse options including live, certified tutors virtually accessible daily, support for students and their parents/guardians, and schedule flexibility. Students enrolled in our virtual program will have opportunities to participate in athletics, cheer, dance, band, etc. Additional options for virtual or “on campus” elective and Career Technical Educa-
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
tion courses as well as gateways to Career Technical certifications and college credits will also be available (eligibility, fees, and/or availability may apply for these options). Due to the schedule flexibility provided by our virtual program, students may complete their required high school credits early, allowing them to progress to postsecondary education or enter the workforce sooner than a traditional high school schedule would allow. Students enrolled in EDGE will be expected to work independently to complete required coursework utilizing Edgenuity and/ or ACCESS Distance Learning curriculum. Student support services include online and face-to-face orientation for online learning preparation; academic advising to include the development of a 4-year high school plan; tracking of student attendance, course progression, grades, and exam proctoring; and administration of state-mandated tests to all students. All final, end of course tests must be taken at a centralized learning site or base school and will be facilitated by Elmore Coun-
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ty staff. Students are not required to come in on a weekly/monthly basis, unless they opt for tutoring services provided by certified teachers or fall behind with their coursework. Students who meet graduation requirements through EDGE can earn a standard Alabama High School Diploma. However, we do offer Advanced Placement courses, which meet the standards of the College Board’s Advanced Placement (AP) curriculum. For more information and application, visit www.elmoreco.com and click “The EDGE” or contact Debbie Clark at debbie. clark@elmoreco.com or 334-514-3931 ext. 27002. We constantly strive to empower every student to achieve success, and we look forward to the opportunity to serve students throughout the tri-county area.
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Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.
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Helping Children Cope with Death As a school counselor, helping children cope with death of a loved one can be difficult. Even harder is when the death hits close to home, involving a student or faculty member. Over the past few years, we have seen the loss of many students and teachers in the River Region school districts. School counselors are available for students to talk to when needed. Many children, like adults, want to do something that they feel makes a positive difference after a death, so counselors often facilitate the students in making cards, writing letters, signing posters, and other activities of remembrance. When a student
has an individual loss of a family member or loved one, their school counselor will do many of these same things in a one on one setting when the family has made the counselor aware of the loss. In addition, parents frequently reach out to school counselors for tips and suggestions for talking to their child and helping them to cope with the death of a parent, teacher, friend, or family member. Often, when children have not experienced a loss before, they may have difficulty processing the death of a friend or loved one and may not know how to react to the loss. Children who have experienced a previous loss may still have difficulty processing and reacting to a death. The Coalition to Support Grieving Students recommends using the words “dead” or “died,” rather than “sleeping” and “passed away” to avoid confusion and to help them understand what has happened. When discussing death with a child, it is important to
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stick to the facts and discuss what happened in an age appropriate way, as well as validate their feelings to let them know their sadness, anger, etc. is normal. Crying, talking about feelings, sadness, anger, confusion, guilt, shock, and even a short-term drop in grades and/or a short-term lack of focus are all normal reactions to the death of a loved one. Significant behavior changes, selfdestructive behavior, apathy, and grades that do not improve after a short period of time are all reactions that could warrant the need for additional support. Behaviors may not always be present after the initial death of a loved one. Sometimes a child might not seem to be affected, but grief is different for all of us. Behavior changes may not appear until months down the road or may never appear at all. Monitoring your child should be an ongoing process rather than only last a few weeks or months after the loss. If you notice behaviors that are concerning or that do not improve over time, your school counselor can help by providing assistance and/or referrals to other agencies that specialize in helping children deal with the death of a loved one. Contributed by Emilie Johnson, Counseling Coordinator for Elmore County Public Schools, and Sandy Barfoot, Counselor, Airport Road Elementary School.
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Elmore County Schools
Former ECTC Student Participates in Unique Apprenticeship
H. Councill Trenholm State Community College in Montgomery hosted a “signing day” for its automotive technology students. These young men are taking classes in automotive service technology while apprenticing in their field at local businesses. A 2017 ECTC auto service technology graduate, Brandon Orndorff of Millbrook (second from left, front row) is among the program participants. He is currently employed in an apprenticeship at Larry Puckett Chevrolet in their service department while finishing his coursework at Trenholm. (Story and photo from AlabamaWorks)
WMS Student Places in 4H Poster Contest
Wetumpka Middle School student Emily Owen, who just finished 7th grade, won second place in the Alabama 4H junior age division for her 4H dairy poster. She won a ribbon and $50. First, Owen won first place in Elmore County and then her poster went on to the State contest.
Send Your school news to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.
Wetumpka Girls’ Softball Team Named 18U State Champions
The Softball State Tournament was played in Athens, Ala. June 22-23. Wetumpka High School defeated teams from Prattville, Athens, Decatur and Lawrence. This is the third year that Wetumpka has won the State Title in the 18U division. Coaches were Jay Johnson and Devin Cappella, with teammates Kristen Whitlow, Amelia Nettles, Rebekah Forbus, Charlie Berdeaux, Makayla Dorch, Kaylee Luster, Samantha Drinkard, Salarrion Young, Jaznine Lucas, Lillian Smith, Haleigh Collum and Jordan Johnson.
Millbrook Students Chosen for All-Star Event
The Alabama Baseball Coaches Association has hosted an All-Star event for Alabama high school players for the last 18 years. For the first time this year, however, the AlaBCA hosted a Middle School All Star Event. Tryouts were held in early June throughout the state and 60 players were chosen to create four teams of 15 players. These players are going into their 7th-, 8th- and 9th-grade years. Stanhope Elmore High School had two rising 8th-graders chosen. Zach Stevens and Chase Williams were selected to represent the South and played for the Cardinal team. Both competed well and played hard despite being some of the smallest at the event. Montgomery Parents I August 2018
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Wetumpka Middle School Cheer Team Has Successful Camp Results
Wetumpka Middle School’s cheerleading squad received all Superiors in every category at Cheer Camp and had four girls named All-Americans!
RES PTO Organizes Fund Drive for Local Family
The Redland Elementary ParentTeacher Organzation is accepting donations to help the surviving Orsi children in the wake of family tragedy on July 7. Donations are welcome in the form of checks or cash to be set up and deposited into a local bank account. Please make checks payable to Orsi Fund. Donations can be mailed or dropped off at the school. Gift cards are also accepted. The PTO is selling #redlandstrong bracelets for $2 with proceeds also going to the Orsi girls. Refer to the Redland PTO Facebook page (https://www.facebook. com/redland.pto/) for more information. If sending contributions by mail, please send them to Redland Elementary School, 495 Scholars Drive, Wetumpka, AL 36093. Call (334) 567-1248 with questions.
Chapel • Ar t • Music • Spanish • STEM • Librar y • Spor ts Theatre • 21 st Centur y Computing • Accelerated Reader
Holy Cross has it all!
K4 - 6th GrAde
Now Enrolling! Call Us Today! ESL AvAilAble | eSl 강좌 개설 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 Holy Cross is a proud member of the National Association of Episcopal Schools
HOLY CROSS ADMITS STUDENTS OF ANY RACE, RELIGION, AND NATIONAL OR ETHNIC ORIGIN. 49
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Elmore County Represented at SkillsUSA National Conference and Competition
Three students and two instructors from Elmore County visited Louisville, Ky. this summer participating in the SkillsUSA National Conference and Competition. Above, Preston Bethea, a 2018 Wetumpka High graduate, had the opportunity to accompany his ECTC electrical technology instructor, Jason Harris, who was on the SkillsUSA National Education Team, to the conference. Ken Spivey, computer technology instructor, led two students from ECTC to the national competitions that included workplace simulations and knowledge tests. From left is Jackson Dean (Elmore County High) and Drew Delong (Holtville High).
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Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps Performs at Stanhope Elmore
ECTC Opens Two New CTE Programs This Fall
Seeking to provide additional workforce support in needed areas, Elmore County Tech Center is opening both an aviation technology and HVAC program on their Wetumpka campus this school year for students enrolled in Elmore County schools. The HVAC program blends the skills of electrical, plumbing, construction, chemicals/gases, and constantly improving technology making it a “high tech” field with a high demand for HVAC technicians across the Southeast and nationwide. The aviation program was birthed through discussion with Auburn University’s aviation program. Opportunities exist in both military and private sector positions for pilots and A&P mechanics as well as aviation manufacturing in Alabama and the Southeast. The new instructors are, from left, Allen Meadows, HVAC instructor, and James Stough, aviation instructor.
On July 7, students, parents and teachers representing athletics, cheer and band spent time at Foshee-Henderson stadium on the campus of Stanhope Elmore High School cleaning and preparing the stadium for the first event of the upcoming school year. Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps hosted a successful drum corps show on Friday, July 13. This is the second year in a row that Southwind chose to host their show at Stanhope Elmore. Southwind has a long history of working with the Stanhope Elmore Marching Band and has many former members from the Millbrook area. This year, two SEHS students and one recent graduate—Wesley Walden, David Persky and Piper Sloan—are marching with Southwind. Southwind was staying and rehearsing at Stanhope Elmore for the weeks prior to the event, preparing their show to go on tour all over the U.S. this summer. Southwind Drum and Bugle Corps originated in Montgomery in the early 1980s and is currently based in Mobile. Stanhope Elmore band directors are Wesley Morris and Will Boartfield.
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Get Ready for Kindergarten with Practical Tips
5 Ways to Bring Rules Back After Sumer
Kindergarten is a formative year for families, as kids acquire the foundational skills they’ll build on for a lifetime (and parents learn the value of healthy home habits and encouraging independence). Here are some handy tricks and tools to help your kindergartners -- and you -- get ready for the school year.
If you and your kids went a little overboard on screentime this summer, you’re in good company. According to a Harris Interactive poll, about half of all parents say their kids watch more TV, play more video games, surf the Web more, and watch more movies during the summer months. With back-to-school upon us, it’s time to re-establish some limits on media. These strategies can help you get a jump on things:
Arm kids with soft skills. Ease your kids’ entry into the early days of their educations by helping them develop and refine essential “soft skills.” From encouraging them to get along with others to supporting their ability to self-regulate, these six skills are important building blocks to having a successful school year.
Have a last blast. Plan a special media-centered event that the whole family will enjoy -- something you couldn’t do during the school year. A movie in the park, an all-day video game session, a binge-watching marathon of streaming shows are all fun ways to say, “so long, summer.”
Nurture responsibility. Time-management tools can motivate kids and help them develop responsibility, organization, and independence. There are lots of handy apps to help keep kids on track, and even designed to help little kids with morning routines.
Prepare your kids. Talk about the routine changes that come along with the school year. Discuss the concept of “balance” -- a daily mix of exercise, reading, social and family time, school work, and entertainment. A week before school starts, get serious about bedtime, and turn off the TV, games, and electronic devices at least an hour before hitting the sack. The stimulation of media makes it hard for kids to settle down.
Share stories about school. Lots of kids are excited about stepping into their big-kid shoes for kindergarten, but the transition isn’t always seamless. Sweet stories about kids going to kindergarten and funny back-to-school movies can soothe and entertain nervous students -- and their parents.
Create a school-year media plan. Take out a calendar, and work with your kids to create a weekly schedule that includes homework, chores, and activities -- plus TV, games, movies, etc. Kids don’t always understand the concept of “Thursday,” but if they see their activities written down, they know what to expect and when to expect it.
Skip the back-to-school buying frenzy. Don’t turn your kindergartner into a walking advertisement. Learn how to avoid the rampant marketing and consumerism of the back-to-school culture. And when you shop for school supplies, consider stocking a backpack for a kid in need or organizing a school supply drive -- you can teach your tot about sharing while you’re at it.
Raid the library. Go for the books, but also find out whether your local branch offers programs for kids -- like puppet shows, reading hours, or other activities. It’s like a little baby step to school.
Get involved. Take an active role in your children’s early education. Talk to the teacher about your kids’ challenges, as well as the activities at which they excel. Help at home by sharing educational tools designed specifically to enhance pre-K skills. Fun apps and games can offer an extra boost to nurture young interests and developing social-emotional skills -- and kids won’t even realize they’re learning.
Remember you’re their role model. Sneak your iPhone under the table, and your kids will catch you. Model the healthy media habits you’d like your kids to follow. Montgomery Parents I August 2018
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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston
Learning to Shift Your Parenting Style Do you allow your teenager to make mistakes? Or do you protect him from that? Think about it — if you hadn’t learned from your own mistakes, how would you know what it means to make one? And if you prevent your teen from making mistakes, how else will he grow into maturity? By lecturing him? By rescuing him every time? Based on what I’ve learned from 30 years of working with troubled teens, that mode of parenting simply isn’t helpful to children in their teenage years.
As Children Enter Adolescence, Parents Need to Shift Gears — from Lecturing and Protecting to Mentoring and Coaching. Perhaps you recall the Biosphere II experiment 20 or so years ago? Several scientists were sealed in a huge glass bio-dome in the Arizona desert to see if life could be sustained in a similar facility in outer space. There was one unexpected result from that experiment. As trees were grown in this seemingly “perfect” environment, with sun and water and good soil, they all eventually died. You see, as trees normally grow in nature, winds continuously bend them back and forth, making microscopic tears in their bark. The tree responds by filling the tiny breaks with protective sap that hardens and forms a sturdy outer core, making the tree trunk strong enough to stand upright. So, without the buffeting of wind in the protected dome of Biosphere II, the trees there simply flopped over and broke after reaching a certain height. Montgomery Parents I August 2018
I hope the analogy to parenting is obvious. Are you overly protective of a teenager in your own “dome”? Can you see how that could become detrimental, or at the very least not be very helpful to them, when in a few short years they will take on life all on their own? After years of being in protector mode, we need to get out of the way and allow our children to gradually bend in the winds of life a little more. Through that gentle buffeting they’ll gain strength and wisdom to stand upright and flourish in their later years. Without it, they will simply fall over at some point. The shift also encompasses moving from telling and providing to listening and guiding. In other words, avoid fixing everything for the little darlings but be there for them to cry on your shoulder when they make a mistake. Encourage them to make as many of their own decisions as possible, as long as they aren’t life threatening. The teenager may not get it quite right at first but eventually, through natural consequences, they will learn to make better decisions. Begin early, and keep working at it. This is an ongoing process, and one you should consider a critical stepping-stone to maturity. Parents of teenagers who really understand the “shifting gears” principle become really good coaches and listeners. They allow their children to learn from small mistakes along life’s road to prepare them to handle bigger decisions later on. They remain in the game, enforc54
ing the boundaries without wavering, but they avoid anger when boundaries are broken. They allow consequences to speak for themselves, for it is through consequences that we all learn. And they express true empathy and inspirational support during their teen’s struggles, even when they make really stupid mistakes. If you have a teenager in your home, perhaps it is time to shift your style of parenting. While it is hard to step back and watch as inevitable mistakes are made, it is essential for parents to allow the buffeting winds of life to blow. And give your teen some credit. You’ll be surprised how quickly he or she will mature once the training wheels are taken off and it is up to them to either steer straight, or crash. Like the beam on a child’s face after his first unassisted bike ride, your teen will grow in confidence and self-esteem with each new decision he makes. Give it a shot. Stop teaching and start training. You’ve done a great job giving your child input throughout the years. Now, start helping your daughter apply those truths to her life. That usually doesn’t happen in one conversation; it happens with many conversations. And start the process of helping your son become independent and take control of his life. It’s what HE wants. And you know it’s what YOU want. There’s a difference between teaching and training. Which one are you spending most of your time doing with your teen?
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.
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When Rachel Pheffer’s daughter Brock starts middle school this fall, teachers will expect her and her classmates to manage homework, school supplies and activities without the same oversight they experienced in elementary school. Set your tween up for success in a way that supports her growing independence. Montgomery Parents I August 2018
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“This is the time to let go and hope that I’ve taught her how to stay organized,” says Pheffer, a creative business owner. Of course, she’ll still offer guidance as Brock chooses organizational systems and colorful supplies that motivate her--all while staying on budget. “The dollar store is my favorite place. They have tons of bins and organizational things that you can buy and not bust your bank,” Pheffer says. Why get organized? Organization is a learned and essential life skill. Mismanaged materials result in needless stress, timewasted tracking down lost items and poor grades. “When kids get into the habit of organizing, they’re developing valuable planning and critical-thinking skills that will help them become better problem solvers and creative thinkers,” says professional organizer Shawna Childers.
Remember homework. Writing to-do lists and filling out assignment pads helps kids keep track of homework. If teachers permit, your tween might also snap photos of assignments posted on the board with her phone. Mikita Burton, a mom of three, lifestyle blogger and professional organizer, took advantage of technology to help her son remember homework materials. “Most teachers now have ‘web backpacks’ where parents can also see the assignment. I used the technology that our kids are now accustomed to and added assignments to his cell phone,” she says. “I set reminders and they would ping five minutes after the dismissal bell in hopes that by the time he got to his locker, he’d be reminded of the assignment and bring the correct book home.” Accessorize their locker. Prevent a locker from becoming a jumble of books, smashed papers and supplies. “A locker shelf should be your first purchase,” Burton advises. Discount stores sell baskets that can be flipped on the side to create an inexpensive locker shelf or purchase a shelf at area office supply stores. Hang magnetic baskets on the locker’s inside door to house extra pens and pencils. Kids generally love choosing personalized accessories to customize their temporary space. “Fun decorations on the inside encourage kids to keep it clean,” Burton says. Choose a calendar. Between school, extracurricular activities and a budding social life, busy middle schoolers can get overwhelmed. Select a cool calendar with your tween that she can fill out each week to help her visualize and prioritize her time. 57
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Free Digital Organization Apps MyHomework - Digital student planner (iOS or Android) inClass (iOS) or Studious (Android) multimedia note-taking, file-sharing, to-do list management and s chedule planner Freedom (PC or Mac) - blocks distracting websites, mail servers, social media during homework time
Manage backpacks. Simplify filing and retrieving of materials stashed in backpacks with color-coordinated folders and notebooks for each school subject. Get your child in the habit of cleaning out his backpack weekly to manage the balled-up papers, broken pencils and other trash that inevitably collect.
Toss clutter. “A great way to stay organized for the entire school year is to do a quarterly re-organize of their binders, notebooks and folders,” Childers says. “It works well to do this ‘clean out and refresh’ after each report card.”
Create a homework station. Together, design and organize a functional, distraction-free homework space and stock it with necessary supplies. “Every kid should have what I call a landing station--a place in their room or common area to land all of their stuff,” Burton says. Each afternoon, Burton’s son stows his backpack in a large round plastic tub on the floor. He files paperwork that needs to be signed or reviewed by his mom in a hanging file folder box positioned above the tub. A small night stand holds his school-issued laptop and serves as a charging station.
Encourage independence. As long as her daughter completes his work and earns good grades, Pheffer says she’s comfortable with whatever kind of organization system she implements. Late assignments and poor grades will mean more oversight from mom, which typically doesn’t excite an independence-driven middle schooler. “Letting your child fail a bit is hard, but I’ve found sometimes that’s what we need to do to help them learn,” she says. mp Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two sons, including a soon-to-be middle schooler who is working on getting organized. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.
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9th Annual Little Miss & Miss River Region Pageant Set for August 25
September 29 * 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The 18th annual Titus Bluegrass Festival allows attendees to relax and enjoy the picking and grinning of live bluegrass music. The Titus Community Center, home of the festival, is a shady grove that is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxed day. The Community Center is located approximately 10 miles north of Wetumpka on U.S. Highway 231, then north on County Road 29. Champ’s BBQ will serve scrumptious food for the festival, and booths will be filled with crafts, cook books, and peanuts. On stage this year will be Cottonmouth Creek, Over the Mountain and Crains Nest. Admission is $10 for adults and children under 12 get in free. Bring your favorite lawn chair and your friends. For more info, visit https://www.facebook. com/TCCBluegrassFestival/.
The 9th Little Miss River Region Pageant will be held on Saturday, August 25, at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Fellowship Hall in Prattville. The pageant is open to females, age newborn to 18 years, with seven age categories. This is also an Open Preliminary pageant to the Sterling Miss USA Pageant for age categories Petite to Teen age divisions, ages 4 to 18 years. There are no area restrictions to compete. Sterling Miss USA will be back in Alabama this year and will be held April 6-7, 2019, at the Pell City Performing Arts Center in Pell City, Ala. Competition age categories for Miss River Region are: Baby Miss: newborn to 23 mos., Tiny Miss: 2-3 yrs., Petite Miss: 4-6 yrs., Little Miss: 7-9 yrs., Pre-Teen Miss: 10-12 yrs, Jr. Teen Miss: 13-15 yrs and Teen Miss 16- 18 yrs. Attire is formal wear only. For Baby Miss, formal wear is a short pageant dress. For Tiny Miss, a short or long pageant gown of choice. For Petite Miss and up, attire is a long pageant gown. Registration for Miss River Region is $70 and includes free entry into the Best Gown, Most Beautiful Hair and Eyes optionals. There are additional optional competitions with their own fees. Winners of these optionals in each age division win a crown and sash. A People’s Choice Crown and Sash will be awarded for the top two fundraisers in the Baby to Petite division and the Little to Teen Miss Division for the contestants who raises the most money for Children’s Miracle Network. Sterling Miss USA, now celebrating its fifth year, is a national semi-glitz pageant. Girls enjoy a weekend of competition where they experience personal growth and celebrate successes as they compete in Onstage Introduction, Interview, and Formal Wear. They can also gain stage experience and try something new in some of our many optionals including Fun Fashion Modeling, Top Model Photo Shoot, Casual Wear Modeling, Talent, Spokes Model, Actress and Photogenic. Applications may be downloaded from www.SterlingMiss.org. Applications and registration payments are due no later than August 18. For more info, call (334) 313-5444.
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A Page in a Book A Collection of Books for Young Collectors If you have a kid, you probably have a collector. Most children gather and assemble examples of their favorite items as an expression of their interests. The act of collecting things also guides a child’s thinking skills as they learn to classify and group items based on similarities as well as diversity. The ability to identify distinctions between similar things is another benefit that young collectors gain. Parents who have been lectured by a child on the minute (but critically important) differences between various Pokemon or pebbles, can verify this emerging cognitive talent in young collectors. The following titles explore the nature of collecting and the one of a kind thrill that comes along with it.
Hector the Collector
by Emily Beeny, Illustrated by Stephanie Graegin (Roaring Brook Press) On the way to school, Hector picked up an acorn from the sidewalk. It was smooth, brown and had a knobby cap. Hector decided to keep it. At recess, he discovered two more acorns, each slightly different from the first. As the days passed, Hector’s collection of acorns grew until it filled his school desk. When his classmates discovered his desk full of acorns, their first response was to laugh. But when the teacher allows Hector to show the differences among his acorns, the kids begin to see similarities with the things that they each collect. A warmly expressed celebration of collecting, both private and public, Hector the Collector is an inspirational read for every child assembling their own collection of favorite things.
Old Hat
by Emily Gravett (Simon & Schuster) Harbet’s hat was knitted for him by his Nana and it’s been his favorite since he was little. When his friends, wearing the latest style in fruity headgear, mock his old hat, Harbet adds a new fruit cap to his ensemble. By the time he wears it, however, the newest style of chapeau has moved on and his friends are still one step ahead of Harbet’s hat game. His hat collection grows out of control as he tries to keep up with the changing styles. Finally, when Harbet decides to let his head do its own thing, it may be his unique bold style that inspires new collections. A brilliantly illustrated cautionary tale about following fads, Old Hat offers a sweet hat tip to staying loyal to your individual style.
The Word Collector
by Peter H. Reynolds (Orchard Books / Scholastic) Some kids collect rocks, comics, stamps or coins. Jerome collects words. Sometimes the word he collects on a scrap of paper was one he’d seen or heard. Some words were short and sweet, others multi-syllable and melodic. One day, his paper word collection spills out of its organized binders, jumbling the words in unusual combinations. Viewing his favorite words paired in new ways, Jerome discovers new lyricism within his collection that has the power to move and delight others. Featuring Jerome’s word snippets throughout, this powerful title offers readers ample opportunities to explore both new and unfamiliar words, taking delightful side journeys with each new romp through the pages.
Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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Lunch solution
Packing a healthy school lunch (or multiple lunches) can take up a lot of time in the morning. Get a head start on lunch preparations by starting the evening before. “If my kitchen is clean, I feel like I am ahead of the game. Every night before going to bed I prep lunches for the next day, put away clean dishes, and reload the dishwasher.” says Kim Burnette, mother of two. By getting a head start the night before, you eliminate a big step, leaving you time for other things in the morning.
Backpack solution
After the kids have completed their homework, have them pack their backpacks up. Parents can sign permission slips, go through school papers, and gather any supplies needed for school the next day and pack them up. Does your child have their gym uniform and band instrument? When everything is ready the night before, there is less to do on school mornings.
Wardrobe solution
Check the weather the evening before school so that kids can lay out their clothing and outerwear for the next day. With the jeans, jackets and shoes laid out there is less scramble to find everything the next morning. Also try laying out the entire week’s clothing on Sunday. “We have a small plastic set of drawers with 5 drawers that can be purchased in the storage section at Target. We put an outfit for both of the kids in each on Sunday.” says Alicia Dafferner, mother of two.
Prep yourself
Many parents find that if they can wake up before the kids, they feel more refreshed and prepared for a productive morning. This gives them the time to take few minutes to wake up, enjoy a cup of coffee, or grab a quick shower. Mother of three, Jessi Cole, says, “I find that it helps if I get up early and get myself ready before my kids get up. That way, I only have to worry about them.”
Breakfast solution
Help make breakfast healthier and quicker by planning ahead. Sherry Hoffman, mom of two boys, says, “I make several breakfast options that are freezer and toaster oven friendly on the weekends that we can choose throughout the week.” Ideas for freezer-friendly breakfast items include breakfast burritos, waffles, french toast or muffins. There are also easy to make options like whole grain cereal, yogurt with fruit and granola, or a breakfast smoothie. Many
of these items can be prepared the night before to help morning go smoother.
Early to bed, early to rise
“I have noticed that it makes our mornings much smoother if my kids get enough sleep, so early bedtimes are a must,” says Hoffman. Kids who have a consistent early bedtime are more rested for an early wake up. Rested kids are in better moods and stay on task on school mornings, causing less stress and conflict in the morning.
Eliminate electronics
With limited time to be prepared for school, it is best to eliminate electronic 63
distractions. Parents and kids need to focus on the goal, which is getting to school on time. Distractions like television, handheld devices, and video games only slow down the process. Remind kids that there will be time for electronics after school, when their chores and homework are complete. Adjusting to a new school schedule can take awhile, but if parents do their best to prepare the night before and teach kids to do the same, the mornings will run much smoother. mp Sarah Lyons has the task of getting her six children to school in the morning. Planning and preparation help her household run smoothly.
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Art and Music Abrakadoodle Art Education ad on page 59
Classes hosted at your school. Plus, Home School and Studio classes throughout the Fall and Spring. Online registration is open now! Abrakadoodle provides a dynamic learning environment for art education that actively sparks the student’s imagination while developing new skills. The Abrakadoodle curriculum is designed to extend the students’ creative abilities and build skills in fine motor, language, art appreciation, cognition and other essential skill areas. Students are introduced to art materials, artists, art vocabulary and techniques through engaging art activities. This exposure provides an adventure into art education that helps students of all ages develop both an appreciation of art and confidence in their own creativity, while having a lot of fun as they create their own unique masterpieces! We offer classes at locations in the Montgomery and surrounding areas. Most Classes are conveniently located at your child’s school following dismissal. Classes available for Preschool, Elementary and Middle School Ages. Visit our website to get full class listings and to register online.
Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts: Studio Programs ad on page 73
1 Museum Drive Montgomery Drawing and painting for preschoolers, children and adults. Afternoons and on weekends. Call for class, times, and cost information. Scholarships are available. Visit our website at www.mmfa.org and click on education tab for more fall classes. Young Artists: Ages 3 to 5 Children with their caregivers will enjoy learning basic elements of art through fun and engaging art projects. Each class will feature a different project to help improve fine motor skills and incorporate fundamental art skills. Tuesdays, August 7, 21, September 4 and 18 3:45–4:30pm, $15 class, $45 series. Instructor: Kaci Norman A.P. Art History: Begins August 2018. Grades 10 through 12 Are you a high school student interested
Montgomery Music Project Our mission is to develop young people and bring communities together through music. We do this by delivering affordable, high-quality music instruction to the children of Montgomery and the River Region and by uniting diverse geographic, ethnic, and social-economic communities under the umbrella of the arts. (334) 240.4004 montgomerymusicpromect@gmail.com www.montgomerysymphony.org
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Montgomery Youth Chorale
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315 Clanton Avenue Montgomery Sing all types of music from classical and jazz to gospel
Sara Hall at (334) 271.3264
www.kindermusik.com
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2572 Eastern Blvd Montgomery Guitar Center offers private 1-on-1 music lessons. Learning to play music can be an amazing, lifechanging experience. That’s why we’ve designed our studios to be creative, comfortable places for learning and growing. Our fully-engaging lesson program provides a solid academic foundation and at the same time, encourages students to express themselves through music and helps them discover their inner artist. Our dedicated instructors are fully screened, with multiple years of experience in music instruction. They are truly experts in the instruments they teach, often with credentials from highly esteemed schools of music. With a positive, nurturing attitude, they motivate and inspire students to reach their goals. Please call for availability to get your child started today on their musical journey.
305 South Perry Street Montgomery A unique experience for child and parent. Each Kindermusik class is a world of discovery and adventure. In every class, you’ll witness your child’s developmental evolution in language skills, literacy, listening, problem solving, social skills, self-esteem, and musicality. And it happens within a nurturing environment- full of energy, imagination, music, dancing, and playful delight. 18 to 3 years old. Singing, movement, instruments, and social interaction. Classes begins in August. Now enrolling for fall semester. Call today for registration.
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(334) 414.1261 rdrawls@charter.net www.montgomerysymphony.org
ad on page 72
ad on page 42
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507 Columbus Street Montgomery Runs concurrent with the school year. Audition date will be September 8th.
Guitar Center
Kindermusik of Montgomery
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Montgomery Symphony Youth Orchestra
(334) 265.5758 mcornwell@abrakadoodle.com www.abrakadoodle.com/al-montgomery-register/
(334) 396-6245 stores.guitarcenter.com/montgomery
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in enrolling in Advanced Placement Art History beginning fall 2018? The Museum offers rolling admissions–place contact Alice Novak at anovak@ mmfa.org to inquire about space availability. Muses: Wednesday, September 5 and 19, 4 PM Grades 7 through 12 The Muses is a teen council that enjoys creative experiences and collaborates to help shape the Museum’s teen program offerings and more. To register, please contact Elizabeth Palmer at epalmer@mmfa.org.
and pop. Purpose is to build self-confidence and a love of beauty through artistic preparation of excellent music.
Carver Elementary Extended Day Program
(334) 676.1449 meowforschool@gmail.com M.E.O.W. or at our website www.meowacademy.net
(334) 240.4365
www.mmfa.org
3100 Mobile Drive Montgomery Enrollment is open to all children who live in Montgomery County in grades K-6. They offer art, band, choral, dance, drama, guitar, piano and strings. Instruments are available for use through the school after proper paperwork is completed. Registration is now going on. (334) 269.3625 or (334) 269.3874
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(334) 265.3737 info@montgomeryyouthchorale.org www.montgomerychorale.org.
Music Education on Wheels
104 Mendel Pkwy. Montgomery M.E.O.W. is designed the positive influence of music within the education system. Group and private music lessons designed to make sure each student develops a lifelong relationship with music.
Natalie B Stanley Art Classes
Individual and group lessons taught for children and adults. (334) 221.9267 nataliebstanley@yahoo.com nataliebstanleyartist.com
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Piano Lessons by Summer Whatley
Private piano lessons offered to homeschoolers and adults year round. Lessons are $80 a month, which includes four 30 minute lessons. Will be teaching lessons at a local studio or in the privacy of your home. Students have won several local and state awards. (334) 546.2699
P’Zazz Art Studio
138 W. Main St. Downtown Prattville Prattville Fall classes start September 5. Pick a day and time that fit your schedule. Classes meet once a week. $45 for the month. This covers supplies for Sept. – Dec. After school and Homeschool classes available. (334) 354.1975 pzazzart@gmail.com www.pzazzart.com
Tiffany’s Music Conservatory
Musician, Songwriter, Recording, Producer, Vocal, and Piano Lessons, and Special Events Tiffany D. Orum, (256) 750.1719 benton_tiffany@yahoo.co
Bowling BAMA Lanes
3020 Atlanta Highway Montgomery Youth leagues on Fridays at 6:30. Ages 3-20. Free
Youth Clinic August 24. Pre-registration with free bowling. (334) 272.5423
BAMA Lanes in Prattville
1734 East Main Street Prattville Youth leagues on Saturdays. Ages 4-20. Registration will begin in August. Youth leagues start in September. Please call for more information. Free bowling with paid membership. Please call for more information. (334) 358.8600
bamalanesprattville.com
Brunswick Zone
1661 Eastern Blvd. Montgomery Youth Leagues will be starting up in the fall. You may come in and sign up anytime. (334) 819.7171
www.bowlbrunswick.com
Dance, Gymnastics & Cheer Alabama Dance Theatre ad on page 73
1018 Madison Ave. Montgomery The Alabama Dance Theatre will be offering fall
classes in classical ballet (pre-ballet to the professional level), pointe, modern, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary and tap. Classes begin Monday, August 20th. Classes will be held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, home of the Alabama Dance Theatre located at 1018 Madison Avenue.
(334) 241.2590
www.alabamadancetheatre.com
Armory Athletics Center ad on page 74
1018 Madison Ave. Montgomery Fall classes begin Aug. 6. Ongoing registration. Developmental (Ages 2-5) 45 minute classes: Various afternoon class times Monday through Thursday. Progressive Girls and Boys (Ages 6 and up) 1 hour classes: Various afternoon class times Monday through Thursday. Tumbling (Ages 6 and up) 1 hour classes: Various evening class times Monday through Thursday. Please call for rates. (334) 241.2789 armoryathletics1@gmail.com armoryathletics.com
Dance Generation ad on page 79
65 Ashburton Drive Montgomery Tap, Ballet, Lyrical, Pointe, Jazz, Baton, and Gymnastics. Ages 3 – 12th grade. Beginner, Intermedi-
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ate and Advanced levels. Open House Registration August 13 and August 21 from 3 p.m.- 6 p.m. Registration going on now. Classes begin in September. To pre-register you can call (334) 283.2201. Cost depends on class.
and up, Girls’Progressive ages 7 and up. Beginning, Intermediate, & Advanced Tumbling. Cheer and Tumble for Girls’ages 9 and up. Please call for times and prices. Family discounts available. Registration on a monthly basis.
Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection
ACE of the River Region
(334) 395.4300
www.dancegenerationstudio.com
ad on page 72
3370 Harrison Rd. Montgomery Fall registration will be July 17, 24 and 3 from 3 until 6 p.m. Classes in Ballet, Tap, Tumbling, Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary, Hip Hop, Baton and Competitive dance. Ages 2 ½ to Adult (beginner and advanced) Please call for class dates and times. Preschool classes also available on site. (334) 277.1098
United Gym Stars & Cheer, L.L.C. ad on page 35
6100 Brewbaker Blvd. Montgomery Offer Baby gym for ages 1&2, Kinder Gym for girls ages 3-4, Boys’ Preschool for boys ages 3-5, Junior Gym ages 5 & 6 yrs., Boys’Progressive ages 6
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
(334) 284.2244
www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com
1965 Eastern Blvd. Montgomery We are a cheerleading training facility. All Star-Teams from ages 3-18 and tumbling for ages 4 and up. (334) 356.4523
www.acetribe.com/ACE/Riverregion
Bama Blaze Elite Cheer
6016 East Shirley Lane Montgomery All-star Cheer, Tumbling classes, Try-out prep, School and all-star choreography. Our coaches have extensive cheer and tumbling experience. From beginners to the experienced, we are the gym for you. (334) 233-1921 www.facebook.com/BamaBlazeElite
C.J.’s Dance Factory (home of the Prattville Ballet) 145 S. Court St. Prattville Voted the Best Dance Studio in the River Region. Registration on Thursdays in Prattville 5:30-7:00. Fall Open House Registration: Thursday, August 9th from 6 until 8 p.m. Professional instruction
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offered in: Tippie Toes Pre Dance I Class (18 months- 3 year olds), Pre Dance II (ages 4-5 including afterschool hours), Basic Dance 5-9 year olds, Classical Ballet/pointe classes from beginner to pre professional, Jazz, Tap and Gymnastics~ Power Tumble (divided by both age and skill). We offer reasonable tuition with family discounts and tasteful, affordable costumes. Our instructors have college dance degrees and/or professional dance experience. Classes are designed to encourage and stimulate the progress of each student’s mental and physical capabilities by teaching in a professional environment. Performance opportunities are available for all students. (334) 467.8603
http://cjsdancefactory.com
Centre of Performing Arts
975 S. Memorial Drive Prattville Register now and classes begin in August. We focus on quality dance instruction by teachers with years of experience as we aim to provide superior training in various dance styles to children ages 2 years and up. Classes offered in Creative Movement, Ballet/Pointe, Tap, Jazz, Gymnastics, Lyrical, Modern/Contemporary, Hip Hop, Strength & stretch and Competitive Dance Teams. We are the #1 competitive dance studios in the State of Alabama. (334) 491.1192
www.centreforperformingarts.com
www.montgomeryparents.com
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Lisa’s Dance Dimensions
2981 Main St. Millbrook Offer Parent/Tot, Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Jazz, Tap, and Gymnastics. Class times vary according to age and level. Registration begins Thursdays, July 26 (5-6:30 p.m.), Aug. 9 & 16 from 4:30 until 6:30 p.m. and Tuesdays, July 31 (5-6:30 p.m.) and August 7 & 14 from 4 until 6 p.m. Registration will take place at Gym Location 101 A Penser Blvd., Millbrook. (334) 285.5515 or (334) 549.4378 LDDNDG@aol.com www.lisasdancedimensions.com
Mann Dance Studio
422 Pratt St. Prattville The studio offers and excels in all forms of dance, offering beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes. Registration will begin at the beginning of August. Please call for dates. Classes will begin Augus 13th. Tap, Lyrical/Contemporary, Pointe, Ballet, Gymnastics, Hip Hop, Baton and Jazz. Call for class times and dates. (334) 365.5154
www.manndancestudio.net
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101A Penser Blvd. Millbrook Classes offered: Parent/Tot Tumbling (ages 18mths-3), Tumble Tots (ages3-5), Super Hero Gymnastics (ages 3-5 boys), Junior Olympic Gymnastics (ages 5 and up), Cheer/Jump/Tumble (ages 7 and up). Class times vary according to age and level. Registration begins Thursdays, July 26 (5-6:30 p.m.), Aug. 9 & 16 from 4:30 until 6:30 p.m. and Tuesdays, July 31 (5-6:30 p.m.) and August 7 & 14 from 4 until 6 p.m. Registration will take place at Gym Location 101 A Penser Blvd., Millbrook.
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(334) 285.5515 or (334) 221.4622 www.lisasdancedimensions.com
7981 Vaughn Road Montgomery Registration going on now. Classes begin August 6th. Priscilla Crommelin Ball, Founder and Execu-
tive Artistic Director. Classes offered in Creative Movement (2 ½ – 3 years), Pre-Ballet (4-5 years), Beginning Ballet (6-7 years), Ballet Pre-Pointe, Pointe, Jazz. Classes for different levels, (divided both by age and skill). Audition information for the Alabama River Region Ballet’s Youth Company will be announced on our website. (334) 356.5460 www.riverregionballet.com
Tammy’s Academy of Dance
2620 East 3rd Street Prattville Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Pointe and Contemporary. Classes for ages 3 through adult.
Tammy Rauch, (334) 221.2657 aodmidtown@yahoo.com
The Montgomery Ballet
2101 Eastern Blvd, Ste 223 (The Courtyard) Montgomery The Montgomery Ballet is the producer of Performance on the Green, Ballet and the Beasts and The Nutcracker. Training provided in Classical Ballet for children and adults of all ages (2 1/2 to adult). Classes for different levels, (divided both by age and skill). As the Official School of The Montgomery Ballet Company, we are committed to developing first class ballet artists through quality training by experienced professional dancers in a healthy, nurturing and disciplined atmosphere. Open House week will be the beginning of August. Please call for dates Classes begin in August and the annual School Performance will be held in May. Open
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enrollment. Classes offered in Classical Ballet, Pointe, Variation, Modern, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop and Contemporary. We also have a Civic Company. (334) 409.0522 info@montgomeryballet.org www.montgomeryballet.org
Wetumpka Titans Cheer & Gymnastics
10938 Highway 231 North Wetumpka TITANS Gymnastics and Cheer and The Flip Factory are here to provide gymnastics, tumbling, and cheer classes for youth in the River Region. We offer Preschool Gymnastics (Age 2 & up), Progressive Gymnastics, Beginner Tumbling (Age 6 & up), Advance Tumbling, Competitive Gymnastics and Cheer Squad Practices. We also offer gym classes for students that are home schooled. (334) 478.3800 wetumpkatitans@gmail.com www.wetumpkatitans.webs.com
www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents
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Martial Arts
Drama Classes
Horses
Alabama Shakespeare Festival: Acting Academy
Shade Tree Riding Academy
ad on page 29
1 Festival Drive Montgomery These classes help students develop skills and confidence need for auditions or presentations. Fee: $200 ASF Acting Academy: Acting Classes for All Ages Fall Semester: Mondays, October 8-December 17 Rising Stars (Grades 3-5); 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Stage Door (Grades 6-8); 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Curtain Call Players for Teens; 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Actor’s Workshop for Adults; 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Monday-Fridays from 4 until 7 p.m. Small troupe of actors from Academy classes for a performance in the spring. Greta Lambert, (334) 271.5393 glambert@asf.net www.asf.net
ad on page 42
566 Thornfield Dr. Millbrook Gentle, experienced horses, easy trail and knowledgeable staff to assist beginners. Call today for more information. (334) 290.3727 or (334) 546.3964 www.shadetreeridingstables.com
MANE (Montgomery Area Non-traditional Equestrian)
3699 Wallhatchie Road Montgomery Applications available online. Successfully teaching independent riding skills to children with cerebral palsy, mental disabilities, autism, hearing impairment and other disabilities. Goals developed individually for clients. (334) 213.0909
www.maneweb.org
Wetumpka Depot Players
Seven Oaks Equestrian Center
(334) 868.1440 kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com www.wetumpkadepot.com
(334) 260.7972 or (334) 549.0031 sevenoaksec@ gmail.com www.sevenoaksequestrian.com
300 South Main Street Wetumpka Fall Afterschool Sessions will be announced. Please email to find out more.
Located between I-85 and Vaughn Road, one mile south of The Waters in Pike Road Riding lessons offered. Please call for information.
Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center
3447 Malcolm Drive Montgomery Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center offers an affordable family friendly martial arts program with no longterm contracts. Anti-abduction curriculum, Random Acts of Kindness Program, Academic Achievement Program and MORE all taught by nationally certified instructors…check us out! ***Ages 4 & older/Lil’ Dragons (ages 4-5) offered during the school year! With all memberships you receive a free uniform. (334) 220.5835
www.trytkdfree.com
Family Karate Center
8159 Vaughn Rd, Peppertree Shopping Center Montgomery Montgomery’s Christian Martial Arts. Mon.- Saturday (ages 2 and up): No enrollment fee, no contract. Specialize in ADD, LD, handicapped, mentally challenged, visually impaired, blind, autistic, deaf, overweight children, and children with depression anxiety disorder. We are the only martial arts school that offers a Mommy and me program for ages 2-4. All ages taught every day. We have a fully equipped fitness center that is free to our parents six days a week. Military discount offered. (334) 277.4911
www.montgomeryfamilykarate.com
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(334) 264-4241
(334) 356-1212
503 Cloverdale Road
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Johnson Karate and Fitness Center
2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd. Suite J. Montgomery Classes for ages 3 to Adults. At Johnson’s Karate & Fitness Academy we teach Tae Kwon Do, SelfDefense, Private Lessons, Fitness Kickboxing, Pilates, and Sport Karate. We are now offering early morning Kick Boxing classes. We offer free trial lessons. Phil. 4:13. (334) 284.2344
www.johnsonsmartialartsacademy.com
Martial Arts Center
2055 Harmon Street Montgomery Martial Arts combined with discipline and etiquette. Martial Arts is good, clean fun for kids and a great way to give them a head start in life. Our primary focus is to teach children life skills. Because a structure of respect, courtesy and honesty is built into KUK SOOL, children develop the ability to learn, listen and achieve within a highly regulated environment. Ages 6 yrs.-8 yrs and 9 yrs – 15 yrs. Call for times and prices. (334) 318.1892
NextGen Martial Arts, Prattville
698 Old Farm Lane N Prattville Tang Soo Do, Li’l Dragons (4-6 years) and XMA (Xtreme Martial Arts) offered. Many programs available. (334) 590.3759
www.nextgenmartialarts.com
Tiger Park Taekwondo & Chung’s Taekwondo 3125 Bell Road Montgomery Classes for everyone Ages 3 to adult. (334) 277.2627
www.tigerparktkd.com
Tiger Rock Martial Arts
2750 Bell Rd. Montgomery Classes offered for children ages 4-5 (Tiger Cubs), ages 6-11 (Junior Program) and 12-15 (Youth Class) and Adults 16 +. Please call us for more information regarding class times and schedules. (334) 244.1465 tigerrockmontgomery@gmail.com www.tigerrockmontgomery.com
US Yoshukai Karate
290 N. Burbank Dr. Montgomery Visit us on Facebook under US Yoshukai Karate for more details and classes offered. Ages 5 and up. (334) 657.2032 usyka1997@gmail.com www.usyka.com
Miscellaneous Caesar Chess
Montgomery Teaching kids to play chess in metro Montgomery. ** Public ** Private ** Homeschooled ** Caesar Lawrence – Director & Chess Coach 334-868-0271
CaesarChess@gmail.com
JoAnn’s Fabric & Craft Stores
7951 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery We offer a variety of classes in Cake Decorating, Crocheting, Food & Cooking, Knitting, Quilting and Sewing. Please visit your local JoAnn’s for description of classes offered at this time and pricing. (334) 409.2640
www.joann.com
Michaels
7991 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery Learn crafting skills when and where you want with online classes from Creativebug, or sign up for in store classes in jewelry making, art painting, paper crafting, mixed media, floral design, cake decorating or knitting and crocheting. Please visit your local Michaels’ for class descriptions, times and fees. (334) 260.2846
www.michaels.com
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Recreational & Sports Montgomery YMCA Goodtimes Center ad on page 40
2325 Mill Ridge Dr., off Bell Rd Montgomery Staffed from 2:30 to 6 p.m. After school programs are at the schools. Programs include snack and juice, homework time, music and language, storytelling time, outside activities, arts and crafts, projects, Science and Nature, multicultural activities, and creative time. Open registration. Also, before school programs at certain schools from 6:45 and 7 a.m. til school starts. (334) 279.8666
www.ymcamontgomery.org
Main Site cost is $55 for first child for members and $65 for non-members per week. Discounts for second and third children. Family discounts available. Fall sports are as follows: Football, Cheerleading, Basketball, Taekwondo, Volleyball, Cheer, tumble, gymnastics and swim lessons available. Please call for fall sports registration dates.
(334) 365.8852 or for the Prattville Bradford Branch call (334) 358.1446.
Boy Scouts
3067 Carter Hill Rd. Montgomery About 100 Cub Scout packs located in various private and public schools, churches, etc. August/ September, city wide Fall Recruitment night for Scouts, parents can enroll their child in a pack that night. Someone will be handing out brochures at all schools in August/September. Homeschoolers are welcome.
(334) 832.4288
Boys & Girls Clubs of the River Region
(334) 361.3640
Prattville YMCA
(334) 262.2697
972 McQueen Smith Rd. S, 600 E. Main Street, 348 Hwy 82 West Prattville Registration going on now. Main After School Program, Kindergarten After School, Primary After School, Pine Level, and Daniel Pratt. Prepay first week at registration. Vans will pick up kids at public school and take them to the Main Site Program.
220 Crenshaw Street Montgomery Patricia Hackett; Chisholm, (334) 265.2469, 2612 Lower Wetumpka Rd. Tobarie Burton; West End, (334) 263.3371, 220 Crenshaw Street Cheryl Myrick; Wetumpka, (334) 478.4904 499 Alabama Street
ad on page 45
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
Provides programs and opportunities, which encourage young people, particularly the disadvantaged, to maximize their potential and become caring productive citizens of our community. Activities include character and leadership development, health and life skills, education and career development, sports, fitness and recreation, and the arts. Clubs are open Mon-Fri from 3-9 p.m. during the school year and 9-5 on school holidays and in the summer. All locations serve children ages 6-18. $5.00 a year per child.
www.tukabatcheebsa.org
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www.bgcmala.org
Doster Center, Prattville
101 West Main Street Prattville Various after school activities include Afterschool Recreation Club for grades K-6th. Monday – Friday, 3 p.m. – 6 p.m. (After school transportation provided.), Vacation Club Day (for school holidays when children are out of school but parents are still working) Grades K-6, 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Frazer Upward Basketball
6000 Atlanta Hwy Montgomery Program available for girls 5 years through 8th grade and boys 5 years through 8th grade. Registration only during the month of October. Practice begins in December. Games begin in January. (334) 495.6459
www.frazerumc.org
www.montgomeryparents.com
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Frazer Upward Football & Cheerleading
6000 Atlanta Hwy Montgomery Program offered Aug.-Oct. for rising 1st- 6th grade. Spiritual development through devotionals, coaching and athletic skills. Registration is open now. Please visit us at www.frazer.church under the family and sports & fitness tabs for registration link. (334) 495.6459
www.frazerumc.org
Girl Scouts
145 Coliseum Boulevard Montgomery Girl Scouts is a fun and exciting adventure in learning that encourages girls to be their best. Girls ages 5-17 may participate in girl scouting after school in traditional troops, during the school day through the in-school program, or through numerous outreach programs available throughout the area. Financial assistance is available to qualified girls for programs and events. Call for registration. Someone will be handing out brochures at all schools in August/September. (334) 272.9164
www.girlscoutssa.org
Montgomery YMCA
Offering over 100 different programs for all ages. Including inside and outside youth and adult soccer, football (grades 1-6), basketball (year-round & all ages), track, soccer (ages 6 & up), mini-soccer (ages 4 & 5), aquatic program, cheerleading (grades 1-6), Leaders Club & Tri-Hi-Y (grades 7-12), and much more. Fees vary by activity and membership. Boys and girls can enjoy teamwork, sportsmanship and healthy competition. Contact your local YMCA branch. Cheerleading: Cheerleading will build confidence and self esteem while developing social skills and healthy relationships with others. Ages 5-12 (no 7th graders allowed) Season: September-November. Games on Saturdays. Registration going on now until August 4th. Basketball for ages 4-15: Registration begins in September. Youth Tackle Football Season: September-November. Ages 6-12 (No 7th grade players will be allowed.) Games will be on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Registration will be going on until Aug 4th. Late Registration from August 5th-13th. Mini Flag Football: Ages: 4-7. Provide players the opportunity to learn the basics of football in a developmental environment. Registration will be going on until Aug 4th. Late Registration from August 5th-13th. Ice Hockey: Ages 4-11. Children will learn the fundamentals of ice skating and begin to practice the skills needed to play ice hockey. This program will begin as an instructional program and evolve into a developmental league program. Please call for more information. Fall Outdoor Mini-Soccer for ages 3 & 6: Registration June 14 through August 12. Season begins in August and will end in October. LaCrosse: The YMCA Montgomery Capitals will be formed as a competitive youth lacrosse Club. Our philosophy will be to allow all youth participants the opportunity to participate, develop a love for the game and continue to develop their skills and fundamentals. Please call for more information. Soccer: Website: www.capitalcitystreaks.org Email: msanchez@capitalcitystreaks.org. Participants can sign up at any local YMCA. Recreational Soccer: Season- September-November and April-May. Ages 6-18. Games Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Registration is open now. Practice begins in August and games begin in September. Indoor Soccer: Season December-January, FebruaryMarch, June-August. Ages 7-17. Games Monday, Tuesdays, Thursday, Friday and Saturday depending on age group. Registration TBA Barracuda’s Competitive Swim Team: The YMCA has a year-round competitive swim program based at the East YMCA. Contact (334) 272.3390. Tryouts will held in August. Please call for more information. They can also be contacted online at www.ymcamontgomery.org. Indian Guide (Parent-Child Program): The Adventure Guides and Princesses offers activities for children
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Sk K-3rd grade and their parents. Program that aids in the growth and development of families. Contact Jeff Reynolds at (334) 269.4362 for additional information. Starts in September. Soccer Branch, (334) 396.9754 Kershaw Center, W. Fairview Ave. (334) 265.1433 Cleveland Ave., Rosa Parks Ave. (334) 265.0566 Downtown, South Perry Street (334) 269.4362 East Y, Pelzer Avenue (334) 272.3390 Bell Road Y, Bell Road (334) 271.4343 Goodtimes Center, off Bell Road (334) 279.8666 Southeast Y, Carter Hill Road (334) 262.6411 Camp Chandler, Lake Jordan (334) 269.4362 Camp Grandview, Millbrook (334) 290.9622 James Wilson Jr, 1445 Wilson Park Dr., (334) 356.8471
Therapeutic Recreation Center
604 Augusta Street Montgomery For the mentally and physically challenged. Various programs available. Classes run from 4 p.m. – 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Transportation is provided for Montgomery public schools. (334) 240.4595
www.montgomeryal.gov
Wetumpka YMCA
200 Red Eagle Drive Wetumpka YMCA Goodtimes after hours for school age children (5 to 11 yrs.) pick up and keep them until 6 p.m. Have several programs, including: Summer Camp, Youth Sports, Football, Volleyball, cheer-
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Friendly, experienced instructors and exclusive learning programs for guitar, vocals, keys, drums and more
AY Guitar Center Montgomery 2572 Eastern Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36117 334-396-6245
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leading, basketball, karate, T-Ball, Swim Team and soccer. Open registration. The following sports are available beginning in the fall: Football for boys’ ages 6-12, cheerleading for girls’ grades 1-6, Minisoccer for ages 4-5. (334) 567.8282
www.ymcamontgomery.org
Skating
Alabama Dance Theatre
Klynn Skating School at Eastdale Mall ad on page 20
Eastdale Mall Montgomery Montgomery’s Only Ice Skating School. Classes starting soon please call for dates and rates. Private Lessons Available.
Fall Dance Classes begin Monday, August 20, 2018
(334) 272.7225 Klynnice@bellsouth.net www.klynnice.com
Kitty Seale, Artistic Director
Montgomery Skate Park
2390 Cong. W. L. Dickinson Dr. Montgomery We invite all skaters of all ages to come out, hop on their boards and smooth their skills while having some fun. Please visit us on Facebook under Montgomery Skatepark for more information and open date.
Age 3 to Professional Level Now Accepting Registrations
(334) 240.4561
1018 Madison Avenue
Skate Zone 2000
at the Armory Learning Arts Center www.alabamadancetheatre.com
88 Red Eagle Pkwy Wetumpka After school program available. Monday – Friday from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. We will pick children up from schools in the Wetumpka area and Redland area. Ages K-12 yrs old. We pick up from Redland Elementary School and Wetumpka Elementary and Wetumpka Intermediate. Please call for more information and rates.
334-625-2590
(334) 567.4434
Soccer FC Montgomery Futsal Soccer ad on page 38
Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Boulevard (indoor/air conditioned) Montgomery We offer a Fall and Winter/Spring season which includes twice a week quality training with Coach Bruno together with his assistant coaches and interns after school hours. Indoor Futsal & Outdoor Soccer competitions are usually twice a month on Saturdays with very limited travel. Most of our games are local at our indoor Futsal facility on the Eastern Blvd. or at local outdoor Soccer fields. We also offer a Home School program. Registration is on going and the season starts August-November. Please check our website for our training and games schedule and team evaluation dates. Coach Bruno (Former pro & College coach – Masters Phy. Ed. (334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com www.fcmontgomery.com
AYSO297 Fall/Spring Soccer
Fall 2018/Spring 2019 Registration opens in August. board@ayso297.org
www.ayso297.org
Frazer Sonshine Soccer
Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery Held at Frazer Soccer Fields will be held in the Spring. Ages 5-12. (334) 495.6459
www.frazerumc.org
St. James Upward Soccer
9045 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery K4 through 4 grade (boys and girls welcome)
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Registration ends August 3. Practice begins the week of August 20-24. First game is Saturday, September 8th
YMCA Barracuda’s Competitive Swim Team
YMCA Capital City Streaks
(334) 272.3390 bldelcarmen@ymcamontgomery.org www.ymcamontgomery.org
(334) 277.3037
www.sjlife.com
Montgomery Participants can sign up at any local YMCA. Season- September-November and April-May. Ages 6-18. Games: Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. Registration is open now. Practice begins in August and games begin in September. msanchez@capitalcitystreaks.org www.capitalcitystreaks.org
Swimming & Scuba Adventure Sports Aquatic Center ad on page 83
1546 E. Ann Street Montgomery Heated indoor pool year round. Swimming Lessons, Scuba and Life Guard Classes. (334) 269.3483
www.adventuresports2.com
The YMCA has a year-round competitive swim program based at the East YMCA. Please call (334) 272.3390. Tryouts will be held in August. Please call for more information.
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(334) 273.8425 dleal@mindspring.com www.wynlakes.com
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7900 Wynlakes Blvd. Montgomery Two classes available: Peewee’s (ages 4-8), and Excellence (ages 9-18). Please call or visit our website for more information.
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Tennis
Tutoring
O’Connor Tennis Center
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500 Anderson Street Montgomery After-school Tennis Clinics offered during the school year for all ages. Fall sessions begin August 13 and will run every school day through December 20.
3501 Whiting Avenue Montgomery Brain enhancement techniques, therapeutic tutoring in reading and math, teaching children how to focus and develop a love for learning.
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(334) 240.4884 bbradshaw10s@gmail.com www.oconnortenniscenter.com
ad on page 40
ad
F.S. Blalock, M.Ed., (334) 265.9155
Grant Joy Learning
Hampstead Tennis
Montgomery Tennis lessons open to both residents and visitors interested in enjoying the fun of tennis. Players welcomed from beginner to advanced level play of ages, and offer weekly organized private lessons (334) 207.9821, Jan Gelabert Hampsteadtennis@att.net
ad on page 27
7010 Fulton Court Montgomery Tutoring with a smile! Specializing in English as a Second Language, General Studies and Learning Disabilities. Grand Opening August 15! Call or visit our website for more info. (334) 452.5151 grantjoylearning.com
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International English Prep Academy, LLC ad on page 36 and 40
8301 Crossland Loop, Montgomery ACT-SAT Prep with intensive practice, testing strategies, full testing, score analysis and more. Register now!
(334) 239-9544 or (334) 313-3488 info@interprepacademy.com www.iepaonline.com
Mathnasium ad on page 71
3453 Malcolm Drive Montgomery We specialize in teaching kids math the way that makes sense to them. We provide: Expert tutors, Custom learning plans and personalized instruction, and Homework help. (334) 539.8132 eastmontgomery@mathnasium.com www.mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery
Read Write Learning Center
ad on page 3 Montgomery Give your student the extra boost they need this year with Read Write! Read Write offers dyslexia testing and oneon-one therapy for students with language based learning disabilities. Our services include multisensory instruction in reading, math, grammar, writing and comprehension. We also offer early intervention for 4 and 5 year olds, which promotes a strong foundation for early literacy. (334) 328.2134 montgomeryoffice@readwrite learningcenter www.readwritelearningcenter.com
Success Unlimited ad on page 31
2328 Fairlane Drive Montgomery Tutoring available for any subject. Tutoring provided by Christian certified teachers. Please call for rates. (334) 213.0803
www.suacademy.com
Sylvan Learning Center ad on page 67
2640 Zelda Rd. Montgomery Sylvan offers Homeworl support, Reading and Math Infdividualized tutoring (diagnostic evaluation), ACT/ SAT Test Prep, Study Skills, Course Recovery. We are an Accredited School with Degreed Teachers. (334) 262.0043 cd@montgomerysylvan.com www.sylvanlearning.com/Montgomery
“Bee” Smart Tutorial & Childcare Development Center
1738 West 3rd Street Montgomery “Bee”Smart offers tutoring in Reading and Math, a wonderful Pre-K program as well as Homework Assistance, Computer Skills and Life Skills. Family Guidance Accepted. (334) 303-2627
beesmarttutoring@hotmail.com
Enjoy Learning Center
2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd., Suite H Montgomery One-on-one tutoring for ages 4 to adult. Math, science, chemistry, reading, comprehension, phonics, spelling, writing, graduation exit exam, ACT and
SAT. Certified, skilled teachers. Credit/debit cards accepted.
(334) 270.0234 fb@enjoylearningcenter.com www.enjoylearningcenter.com
Huntington Learning Center
3251 Malcolm Drive Montgomery Individual testing and tutoring in reading, study skills, writing, phonics, spelling, math and ACT/SAT prep, GED and exit exam. Students ages 5 – adult. (334) 277.9200
www.huntingtonhelp.com
Kumon of Montgomery-Central
1655 Perry Hill Rd Montgomery After school learning program for long term solution. We prepare your child to be a more independent learner in Reading and Math and developing their learning attitude. Kumon is one of the world’s largest afterschool programs. (334) 279.1400 nilapatel@ikumon.com www.kumon.com/montgomery-central
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Kumon Reading & Math Center
8125 Vaughn Rd Montgomery After-school academic enrichment program that helps children achieve success. The Kumon Math program develops necessary skills to help children progress from counting through calculus. The Kumon Reading program begins with basic phonics and progresses all the way through advanced reading comprehension. (334) 649.1178 montgomerysoutheast_al@ikumon.com www.kumon.com
MasterRead
2815-C Zelda Rd., Montgomery Grades K-12 individual tutoring. Sessions for reading, comprehension, phonemic awareness, phonics, math, composition, spelling, study skills and ACT/SAT preparation and Exit Exam preparation. (334) 271.6295 mp
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Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation
Teen Titans Go! To the Movies
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: C+ Violence: BSexual Content: BProfanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B+ Between evading vampire hunters for more than a century, and playing host to throngs of vacationing monsters for decades, it has been all work and no play for the staff at the Hotel Transylvania. And the stress is starting to show. When Mavis (voice of Selena Gomez) finds Dracula (voice of Adam Sandler) talking to himself in the attic, she decides to book a holiday so he and the rest of the crew can enjoy some time away. Although her good intentions are appreciated, Dracula’s real issue isn’t being too busy. It is being too lonely. Now that Mavis is grown up, married and a mother, the widower is beginning to wish he had a special someone of his own. Luckily, the cruise she books has the possibility of fixing both problems: Parents who accompany their little ones may find themselves sitting up in their seats on at least a few occasions. First, the script is all about an assassination attempt and plan for genocide – which gets frightening at times even if it is coated in comedy. Then there is mild innuendo, the portrayal of characters in scanty swimwear, and the staff at a casino that parody male strippers (these animated characters are muscular, shirtless and clothed in only tiny shorts). Lastly, the ham-fisted message of acceptance of others doesn’t only uncomfortably feel like it is alluding to a broad range of diversity – it also includes a sexual reference which, in context, promotes polyamorous relationships. This third visit to the Hotel Transylvania may not be the sweet entertainment getaway your family is expecting.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: C+ Sexual Content: AProfanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A Based on a TV show geared at five to eight year-olds, Teen Titans Go! To The Movies delivers a watered down plot which is overshadowed by cheap laughs and drawn out musical numbers. The story is centered on Robin and his pursuit to become a “real hero” with a tribute film. Aided by his friends Cyborg, Starfire, Beast Boy, and Raven, they attempt to thwart a real arch-nemesis: Slade (voiced by Will Arnett). When Robin’s narcissistic movie plans are rejected by Jade Wilson (voiced by Kristen Bell), a director at the cartoon world version of Warner Brothers, the gang try to cheer up a dispirited Robin by making him a home video. Offended by their jokes about his “baby hands”, Robin is an easy patsy for the super villain’s plan to take over the world with “mental manipulation”. Will Robin come to his senses and reunite with his friends? Will the Teen Titans be able to stop Slade? Aside from enduring their own boredom, parents will not have many concerns with this film. The only real issue is violence, but it is largely sanitized. It the type of cartoon slapstick in which explosions only throw characters backwards, head injuries lack dangerous consequences, and bullets are as ineffectual as foam darts. One final note: out of the scores of movies I have watched, this is the only one where I have seen multiple people leave in the middle and not return. Teen Titans may get people to “Go! to the Movies” but they can’t make them stay once they arrive.
Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again!
Mission Impossible: Fallout
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: B+ Sexual Content: C+ Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C It has been ten years since the last Mamma Mia movie. Although we are not sure how much time has passed for the characters, we do know one thing: A year has gone by since the death of Donna (Meryl Streep). During that time, her daughter Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) has devoted herself to fulfilling mom’s dream of turning their little piece of Greece into an upscale hotel. We know, because of the pervious film, that Donna will encounter and have a sexual fling with three young men who will all be potential candidates as Sophie’s father. And the fun of this sequel is supposed to be meeting the young Sam (Jeremy Irvine), Harry (Hugh Skinner) and Bill (Josh Dylan), and learning how these romances came to be. The other entertainment, intentional or otherwise, is seeing how the writers of this musical have worked various ABBA classics into the script. While the editing between Donna’s past and Sophie’s present is creatively accomplished, the challenge still remains of excusing the characters’ promiscuous behavior – even though the one-night-stands are implied rather than shown. Yet what Mamma Mia 2 does do well is showing the importance of family ties. Despite the fairytale nature of the congenial Dads and their attitudes over paternity, this second visit to the sun-kissed island has fewer sexual moments and innuendo than the first and proves unexpectedly emotional in its portrayal of the bond between parents and children.
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: AProfanity: C Alcohol / Drug Use: A Mission Impossible: Fallout has roared into theatres to widespread excitement and breathless reviews. The sixth in the franchise, it follows Impossible Missions Force agent Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) in his attempts to save the world from yet another cataclysmic act of terror. Given that this franchise isn’t exactly new, viewers are likely to have a pretty good idea of what this movie is going to deliver. In fact, aficionados will probably be able to pick up the plot from the poster or trailer. That’s not to say this isn’t a fun action romp: it is the prototypical action movie. Explosions, breathtaking stunts, stunning location shots and larger-than-life megalomaniacal villains are the soup du jour of this nearly two and a half hour long thrill ride. Compared to other offerings in the action genre, beside violent depictions, there are few other concerns. Profanity is infrequent except for one intense action sequence which tripled the money in my swear jar. The treatment of women here is also a refreshing change – instead of being bimbos in bikinis whose role is to be eye candy, these female characters are strong, fully clothed women with careers, goals, and minds of their own. Other positive messages include a commitment to the rights of individuals, the importance of teamwork and loyalty, and accepting what life gives you. Parents considering Mission: Impossible – Fallout for family viewing should be aware that the PG-13 rating is fully merited: this film is not suitable for children.
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The birth of my daughter Amber was one of the best experiences of my life! Amber is my third child and none of my birth experiences went as smoothly as this one. Everyone at Jackson’s Family Birth Center was so caring, patient and kind. From my high risk pregnancy to my delivery, the entire experience was stellar. I couldn’t have picked a better hospital than Jackson for my child’s birth. Paris Tucker
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I currently have three toddlers in my house. One loves veggies and fruit and rejects meat, one eats everything except bread, and one maintains a not so healthy diet of chicken nuggets and Goldfish crackers. Studies show that French children are more likely to eat a variety of foods and maintain a healthier weight. What makes French kids so different than their American counterparts?
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No snacks
Americans love their snacks. We bring snacks to soccer games, work snack time into our elementary school days, and provide snacks at play dates. The French do not snack in between meals, making them hungry when it is time to sit down for lunch. Imagine how hungry your child would be if there were no crackers or cookies to snack on before dinner. They might even be hungry enough to sample some new foods at their next meal.
Portion control
French people do allow generous portions of food because they are hungry, however they do not eat gigantic portions like we do in the United States. Consider giving a generous portion that will be satisfying rather than a portion that will make you so full you are uncomfortable. Learn to stop eating when you are full, not when the plate is clean and teach your children to do the same.
No eating on the go
Many American families eat on the go. Fast food, snacks in the car, and rushing through meals is becoming the norm. In France, meals are to be savored and enjoyed. The French sit down at the kitchen table to eat a meal and this is their focus. They do not watch television or work while they eat, a meal is to simply be enjoyed. When they are done eating they clean up and go on to the next thing. In other words, no fast food, no snacks, and no standing at the counter to eat. Slow down and enjoy meal time, both the food and the company.
Eat real food
The French avoid processed foods that are full of chemicals and wasted calories. They focus on real whole foods such as cheese, yogurt, bread, fish, meat, and even dessert. Instead of filling up on juice or soda, they drink water with their meal. Full fat foods are offered rather than low calorie or fat free foods because they are more filling and healthier overall. Meals usually have three courses - salad, a main dish, and always dessert. Enjoyment is strongly encouraged over guilt.
Eat less at night
The largest meal of the day is typically dinner in America. In France, a full breakfast is always served and lunch is the largest meal of the day. Dinner will typically be a lighter meal. Once the kitchen is closed after dinner, there are no bedtime snacks. A lighter meal in the evening will help with healthy sleep habits and maintaining a healthy weight.
Enjoy cooking
The French culture enjoys food and therefore enjoys cooking. Get the kids involved in the food preparation process. Let them experiment with different flavors and spices in the kitchen. Getting kids involved in the preparation of a meal encourages them to try new foods and might reduce the battle to try new things. Making all these changes at once is not realistic for most families. Apply these tips for an overall healthier mindset and make small lifestyle changes that will make a big impact on your family’s health long term. mp Sarah Lyons is a Midwestern mom of six children, including 2 year old triplets.
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Yard Games Take the Field
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
When kids get ready to play outside games, for a time they are taking ownership of a sacred space of land. It may be their own yard, a neighbor’s field, the local grassy mall or any green expanse that’s available for them to plant their flag. Marking out their boundaries for the temporary field of play, the shape of the game can be as freeform as tag or as formal as football. The following items encourage something in between. Recommended for engaging kids outdoors, these games and activities offer ground rules for competitive fun while presenting plenty of options for expanded, alternative or solo yard play.
by Gerry Paige Smith
Flickin’ Chicken Game
Kick Croquet Outdoor Game
Undeniably entertaining, the Flickin’ Chicken Game launches floppy fowls into the realm of yard games. Complete with a target, two score pads and four rubber chickens, aim is key as players flick their featherless fowl toward the bullseye. More challenging than it appears, the comic bounce and roll of the chickens keeps the gameplay moving in unexpected and hilarious directions. Combining the low score goal of miniature golf with the unpredictable landings of rubber chickens, this fowl free-for-all is a plucky addition to the outdoor game shelf. Loaded with laughter for children, and just absurd enough to steal the heart of college age kids, Flickin’ Chicken wings to the heights of outdoor poultry play.
Croquet, when it’s all grown up, can be an exacting competition that demands concentration and patience. For the younger set, with a surplus of enthusiasm, Kick Croquet from Hearthsong offers a less restricted and more energetic introduction to the normally staid lawn game. Featuring seven oversized wickets that plant in the ground, two inflatable canvas-covered kickballs, and two finish flags, Kick Croquet expands the footprint of the game for young learners. Notably, the hoop targets are flexible to absorb the errant aim of young learners. Ideal for teaching a traditional lawn sport while encouraging outdoor exercise, this child-friendly game kicks the old game of croquet into high gear!
(The Haywire Group)
(Hearthsong)
Two-in-One Game Set
FlyDay Flying Hoop (FlyDay)
Part frisbee and part kite, the Flyday Flying Hoop can sail up to 100 feet with the flick of the arm. With LEDs incorporated into its balanced body, this super-sized disc can light up in the modes of illumination while soaring through darkened skies. Crafted from flexible ring framing and durable lightweight spandex fabric, this hoop won’t leave a mark when it occasionally crash lands into siding, cars or foreheads. The disc comes with a smart, compact carrying case that makes it the ideal addition to vacation luggage and outdoor outing totes. Large and bright enough to easily see and retrieve, the Flying Hoop supports improved hand-eye coordination, gross and fine motor development, and healthy outdoor activity, day or night.
(Magic Cabin)
Featuring the basic net game components of tennis and badminton, the Two-in-One Game Set is an easy and fun introduction for little kids who’d like to try out racquet sports. Included in the set are two racquets, an oversized badminton birdie, a big tennis ball and volleyball, plus a lightweight five-foot wide stand-alone net. The racquets feature an extra large hitting surface and are lightweight, perfect for little hands to wield. Before kids’ fine motor skills evolve to connect with small fast-moving targets, the Two-in-One Game Set lets them learn the basics through play and experience success on their way to bigger games.
Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com
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FamilyCalendar Wednesday, August 1
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Military Wednesdays at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball -- Also August 8 & 22 12:05 p.m. Aug. 1 and 6:35 p.m. Aug. 8 & 22. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. The Biscuits will honor our service men and women throughout the game each Wednesday with special recognition, discount concessions and more! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255.
Marbury Youth Baseball League Fall Baseball Sign-Ups -- Also August 4 6-7:30 p.m. Friday; 9-11:30 a.m. Saturday. Pine Level game field concession stand (adjacent to the Pine Level Community Center, just east of US-31 and Autauga County Road 40 intersection). Registration fees are $45 per child (multi child discount available) due at registration. For more info, visit www.marburyyouthbaseball.com or on Facebook at https:// www.facebook.com/marburyyouthbaseball/.
Friday on the Green -- Also August 10, 17, 24 & 31 6:30-8:30 p.m. Town Green at Russell Crossroads on Lake Martin. Grab the kids, the pup on a leash, your cooler, etc,. and join us for outdoor live music. Jack & Drew Stearns perform Aug. 3; Kurt and Britt Aug. 10; Matt Smith Aug. 17; Kendall Street Company Aug. 24; and The Bank Walkers Aug. 31. For more info, visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 397-1019.
FREE SWAG Summer Enrichment Camp for 4th-8th graders in Elmore County -- Through August 4 Noon-3 p.m. Rodgers Chapel AME Zion Church, 609 W Bridge St., Wetumpka. Free drug prevention and life skills program for 4th-8th graders. Elmore County residents only. Snacks provided. Sports, games, activities and field trips. For more info, call (334) 262-1629.
Wetumpka Depot Presents Hands on a Hardbody Through August 4 7:30 p.m. performances. Book by Doug Wright; lyrics by Amanda Green; music by Trey Anastasio and Amanda Green; directed by Kristy Meanor. For ten hard-luck Texans, a new lease on life is so close they can touch it. Under a scorching sun for days on end,
Saturday, August 4
Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Annie Through August 5 The sun will come out tomorrow! No one can resist the optimism of Annie – a little orphan girl who refuses to give up hope. The delightful cast of this feel-good musical will get toes tapping with memorable song-and-dance numbers, such as “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” and “Tomorrow.” Recommended ages 4+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353.
MontgomeryParents.com!
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, August 2
Archives Host Annual Alabama in the Movies Summer Film Festival 6 p.m. in the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History’s air-conditioned Joseph M. Farley Alabama Power Auditorium. This four-week festival has featured movies filmed or set in Alabama, as well as films starring Alabama actors. Admission is FREE! Concessions provided by Chris’ Hot Dogs, the Friends of the Alabama Archives, and other local vendors will be available for purchase beginning at 5:30. Tonight’s movie is Hidden Figures (2016) Rated PG. For more info, visit www.archives.alabama.gov or call (334) 242-4364. Book Talk at the Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Noon. The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. The Tuskegee Airmen Chronology: Chronology: A Detailed Timeline of the Red Tails and Other Black Pilots of World War II presented by Dan Haulman. Copies of the book will be available for purchase at the event. Call (334) 353-4689 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.
armed with nothing but hope, humor and ambition, they’ll fight to keep at least one hand on a brand-new truck in order to win it. For tickets, call (334) 8681440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com. Earth’s Heart: Connecting Cultures -Also August 9, 16, 23 & 30 2:30 p.m. ArtWorks at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Explore the arts of different cultures. ArtWorks Educator Kelly Bazan will introduce young learners to the basic greetings, visual arts, music, clothing, and traditions of the country in focus (this month is Italy). Connections will also be made to works in the Museum’s galleries. Classes are limited to 25 students. First come, first serve. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.
Friday, August 3
First Friday Cruise-Ins 5:30-7 p.m. LowerDexter 36 Dexter Ave, Montgomery. Local dealerships will have cars to showcase and a different car club will be featured each month! Check out www.lowerdexter.org for more information and a chance to have YOUR car featured on the lower block. Join us for some family-friendly fun on Lower Dexter! Call (334) 273-0313 for more info. EastChase Back to School Pop-Up Shoppe Through August 5 Located near Francesca’s. Shoppe hours are Friday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday, 1-6 p.m. For more info, visit www. theshoppesateastchase.com/. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents The Secret Garden -Through August 12 This musical is a family favorite and is suitable for all ages. The Secret Garden is based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, with music and lyrics by Marsha Norman, music by Lucy Simon and presented through special arrangement with Samuel French. Tickets are $12 in advance and $14 at the door (if available) and can be purchased by calling (334) 595-0854 or online at cc.prattvilleal.gov.
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Artful Yoga at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also August 15 & September 5 Noon-1 p.m. Does your yoga practice need a little artistic inspiration? Join us for this new program to stretch, reflect and relax. Each Artful Yoga session will draw inspiration from collections and exhibitions of the Museum. Led by instructor Nancy Beale. The class is free and suitable for all levels; beginners are welcome. Bring your yoga mats and wear comfortable clothing. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ discover/artful-yoga/ or call (334) 240-4333.
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
Annual AWF Youth Fishing Rodeo at Alabama Nature Center 7-11 a.m. Bring the kids, a few fishing poles, and a cooler and join us down at the catfish pond! Children 15 and under can catch and take home up to 5 cat-
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fish each (catfish only), but can catch and release all they want! Each child will receive a free T-shirt and a chance to win a door prize! Make sure to call ahead (334-285-4550) and put your name on the list, since space fills up quickly! Admission is free; snacks and drinks will also be available. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/. ‘Fore The Orsis’ Concert 6 p.m.-2 a.m. The Range 231 North, 3250 Wetumpka Hwy., Montgomery. Free food, raffles, drawings and MUSIC from open to close! $20 gets it all. 100% of ticket sales benefiting the Orsi family involved in July 7 tragedy. For more info, visit www.elmoreautauganews.com. Registration for American Youth Soccer Organization’s Elmore County Region 1586 in Wetumpka 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at First Baptist Church Wetumpka. You may also register online at www.ayso1586.org. Parents can e-mail questions toelmorecoayso1586@ gmail.com. Practices will begin on August 13. Opening ceremonies and the first games will be played on September 15. Teddy Bear Clinic 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Montgomery Zoo. Everyone needs a checkup now and then; humans, animals and stuffed animals alike. Bring your favorite stuffed animal friend and let your furry friend be checked out by our vet staff, receive Band-Aids on any boo boos, repair any rips, and get an overall clear bill of health. Children 12 years old and younger and their stuffed animal (plush toy) receive FREE ADMISSION with a regular paying adult (one FREE child admission for every paying adult admission). Visit with zoo vet staff and learn how they take care of all the zoo animals, from the smallest birds to the largest elephant. For more info, visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/ or call (334) 240-4909. Volunteer Summer Serve Day at the Zoo 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway. We are picking a single day to gather volunteer groups to accomplish several tasks in preparing the Montgomery Zoo for the upcoming fall school
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FamilyCalendar group season. We need help with landscaping, trimming bushes, planting flowers, raking leaves, painting, and overall prepping the Zoo for the fall season. Volunteers ages 12-16 must be accompanied by a parent, legal guardian or a designated group chaperone. Volunteers under the age of 19 must obtain parent or legal guardian permission to volunteer. Call (334) 625-4930 or e-mail mgolson@montgomeryal.gov for more info. Alabama Farm & Land Expo 1-5 p.m. Renaissance Montgomery Hotel & Spa at the Convention Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery. Calling all farmers, cattlemen, gardeners, outdoorsmen, equipment enthusiasts and forest fanatics! Explore offerings from nearly 100 vendors and presenters — those specializing in tractors, lending, real estate, insurance, plant protection, feed and seed and more. Simply a $5 suggested donation per person to benefit Children’s of Alabama. For more info, call (334) 288-3900. Old Cahawba True Crime Walking Tour 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. History tells us that Cahawba grew from of a frontier capital into a prosperous center of wealth and culture, home to some of the most affluent families in the state. Despite its short-lived grasp on prosperity, Cahawba was a frontier town that had never lost its frontier mentality. From feuding families delivering street justice to colorful characters threatening to assassinate the President, Cahawba’s corruption will be revealed on this one hour guided walking tour. Admission is $8 per person. Call (334) 872-8058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www.facebook.com/ oldcahawba. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. All locations. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Today’s project is bookworm bookends. Once your
project is built, you and your child can decorate it with paint and stickers. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kidsized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://workshops.homedepot.com/ workshops/kids-workshops. Vicarious Vacation -- Also August 11, 18 & 25 11 a.m. Old Alabama Town’s Loeb Reception Center, 301 Columbus St. Spend every Saturday of August traveling the world in the cool confines of the auditorium in Old Alabama Town. For the seventh year, Landmarks Foundation offers exciting seated trips led by seasoned travelers who will take us on four free VICARIOUS VACATIONS! August 4: Planes, Trains & Automobiles - The Journey from Lima to Machu Picchu, presented by Rich and Christy Anderson; August 11: A Cruise to the Orkney Islands & Iceland, by Ann and Steve Linder; August 18: World War I Battlefields, by Jim Hodgson and Steve Brickley; and August 25: Hiking Mt. Rainier’s Wonderland Trail, by McDowell Crook. Free to the public. For more info, visit www. landmarksfoundation.com/events/upcoming-events/ or call (334) 240-4500. Michael’s Kids Club -- Also August 11, 1 8 & 25; Sept. 1 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies included. Ages 3-8. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. August 4 is Kawaii Backpack Tags; Aug. 11 is Back to School Crafts; Aug. 18 is Wall Decor Art; Aug. 25 is Kawaii Art; and Sept. 1 is Hedgehog. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/. 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. Prattville Farmers’ Market -- Saturdays through August 25 7 a.m.-noon. 332 Doster Road in Prattville, across from Gillespie Center and Pratt Park. Fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, fresh Prattville honey, plants, flowers, music and fun. For more information, contact the Special Events Office at (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov/special-events/farmers-market.html. Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market Saturdays through September 29 7 a.m.-noon. near Dillard’s. Several popular farms with locally grown products, including Aplin Farms, Oakview Farms, Penton Farms, Leatherwood Nursery and many more! For more info, call (334) 279-
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Sunday, August 5
Wake Up and Smell the Coffee 2-5 p.m. The Prattauga Art Guild presents live music, local art, and readings by local authors. This event is free and open to the public. Coffee, snacks, soft drinks and water will be available for a small donation to the art guild special projects fund. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal. gov. First Sundays at One -- Also September 2 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/.
The Incredibles Movie Night + Blessing of the Backpacks 4-6 p.m. Frazer United Methodist Church. Kick off your own “Incredible” school year with a “Blessing of the Backpacks” time of prayer over all students and educators, followed by the classic Pixar movie that reminds us every family can be incredible. Concessions will be available. The Incredibles is rated PG for cartoon action violence. For more info, contact Kim Hendrix at khendrix@frazerumc.org or (334) 495-6397. Music On The Deck -- Also August 19 4:30 p.m. Kowaliga Restaurant, Lake Martin. Great, live music on the deck with Clay Barker Aug. 5 and Matt Smith Aug. 19! We’ll have some great appetizers, drinks and your favorite Kowaliga entrees! Visit www. russelllandsonlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 397-1019.
Monday, August 6
Valiant Cross Academy’s Opening Day Ceremony 8 a.m. 301 Dexter Ave, Montgomery. We will be sending our first class of scholars off to our new high school at Troy University Montgomery. All are welcome! For more info, call (334) 694-9200 or find us on Facebook.
Tuesday, August 7
Millbrook Farmers Market -- Tuesdays through August 14 8 a.m.-noon. Village Green Park, Millbrook. Just sign up for the giveaway at the Manager’s table when you arrive. Fresh from the Farm items include locally grown fruits, berries and vegetables as well as bakery items, Master Gardener Demonstrations, special activities and more. For more info, call (334) 285-6428 or find us on Facebook.
Wednesday, August 8
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 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, August 9
Artistic Summit at the Cloverdale Playhouse 6:30-9 p.m. Cloverdale Playhouse, 960 Cloverdale
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Rd., Montgomery. Designed to bring our community together for conversation and connection. At this dialogue guided by Meg Lewis of the Montgomery Chamber of Commerce, we hope to get feedback about the work we are doing, what the community would like to see us doing, and how we can continue to serve the River Region as Montgomery’s community theater. Please RSVP if you plan to attend. For more info, call (334) 262-1530. This event is free.
Friday, August 10
Riley Green in Concert 8 p.m. Union Station Train Shed, 300 Water Street, Montgomery. Born in Jacksonville, Ala., Green was raised on the sounds of old traditional country, bluegrass and Southern gospel music. He learned the spirit of songwriting and performing at a young age while spending time with his grandfather, Bufford Green, who ran Golden Saw Music Hall. His latest music video for “Bury Me In Dixie” has been viewed over a million times since last fall. Tickets begin at $18 and are available through Ticketmaster. More info at www.rileygreenmusic.com/. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Also August 24 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a nonprofit 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. Montgomery Restaurant Week -- Through August 19 Coinciding with Alabama Restaurant week, this culinary celebration gives visitors the opportunity to discover new restaurants, dishes and drinks. Featuring amazing deals at some of Montgomery’s best restaurants. For more info, visit www.eatmgm.com.
Saturday, August 11
Made for Moms Expo 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Renaissance Hotel and Convention Center. FREE event with fun for the whole family including vendors, speaker series, prizes, photo booth, man cave, kiddie play area with train ride and much more! For more info or booth space, e-mail madeformoms@wsfa.com. Magical Creatures Education Program 10 a.m.-noon. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway. Meet some of the magical animals that are featured in movies like Harry Potter and The Hobbit. Geared for boys and girls, aged 4-10 years old. Advanced reservations required. Child (participant) fee: $25 per child (ages 5-12 years old), $18 for Montgomery Zoo members. Accompanying adults (13 years old and older): $15, Montgomery Zoo members: FREE. For more info, call (334) 354-6034 or e-mail zooinfo@montgomeryal.gov. Still Creek Trek at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook 11:30 a.m. Come out and take a look at some of the cool things that can only be found in the creek! This is a chance to cool off and maybe even find one of Alabama’s natural swimmin’ holes! Be prepared to get wet! Bringing a change of clothes is suggested,
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shoes or sandals (chacos or tevas) are required, no flip flops. You will not need a life jacket. General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife. org/ or call (800) 822-9453. General Auditions at Alabama Shakespeare Festival Alabama Shakespeare Festival is hosting local auditions for adults, kids and teens for the 2018-19 season. Callbacks will be August 12 & 13. Kid and teen roles are available in our holiday show. Children 7 years and older are welcome to audition. This production begins rehearsal on Tuesday, October 23, and closes on Sunday, December 30. Register online at http://asf.net/auditions/ for an audition time. No phone calls regarding auditions, please.
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Babypalooza 9:30 a.m. at Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex. For more info, visit www.babypalooza. com/.
Elvis: The Early Years at Alabama Shakespeare Festival 7:30 p.m. Elvis: The Early Years, starring nationally renowned tribute artist Scot Bruce, returns to ASF. The performance features songs made famous by the king of rock ‘n’ roll, including “Hound Dog,” “Burnin’ Love,” “Jailhouse Rock,” “Love Me Tender,” “Suspicious Minds” and more. This annual fundraiser for ASF has traditionally sold out, so visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353 for tickets. Whole Foods Second Saturday Kids Club 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Whole Foods, 1450 Taylor Rd., Montgomery. Looking for something fun to do with the kids? Each second Saturday, Whole Foods will host fun, hands-on craft activities to teach kids about healthy eating. It’s totally free, and every participant gets a piece of fruit and whatever they make in the workshop! For more info, call (334) 523-2940 or visit www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/montgomery. 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 preregistration 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. AMC Theaters Offers Sensory-Friendly Movietimes -- Also August 25 For guests and families living with autism or other special needs, AMC partners with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! This program is available on second and fourth Saturdays (family-friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences) of every
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Sunday, August 12
Kids Day/Bark in the Park at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball -- Also August 19 & 26 5:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Kids 14 and under can play catch on the field before the game and run the bases after the final out presented by Coca-Cola. Bring your four-legged companion to the game for free and enjoy special dog-themed promotions all game long! One dog per adult. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255. Summer of Sunshine Concert Series 4-6 p.m. The Sanctuary, 432 S Goldthwaite St., Montgomery. Free concert featuring The Shouting Stones hosted by The Family Sunshine Center. For more info, call (334) 206-2100 or find us on Facebook.
Wednesday, August 15
See Me: Exploring Self-Portraits at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 p.m. This exciting new program designed for students with special needs includes an exploration of portraits in the galleries followed by a visit to
ArtWorks, where we will see ourselves in the mirrors of a giant kaleidoscope and the Tannenbaum digital screen. Afterward, participants will create mixed-media self-portraits. This program is free and designed for ages 6 and older. To register, please contact Brandy Morrison at edsecy@mmfa.org.
Thursday, August 16
Food For Thought Noon-1 p.m. The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. 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 “Paul ‘Bear’ Bryant: An American Story,” presented by Ken Gaddy. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov. Capri Theatre Presents Top Gun 7:30 p.m. The classic starring Tom Cruise and Kelly McGillis. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.
Friday, August 17
KC and the Sunshine Band at MPAC 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. With sales of more than 100 million records, nine Grammy nominations, three Grammy Awards and an American Music Award, KC and the Sunshine Band was one of the most progressive bands of the ‘70s and is credited with changing the sound of modern pop music! Tickets begin at $45. For more info, visit www.mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Buckmasters Expo -- Through August 19 The Montgomery Convention Center hosts a 3-day
expo for the deer hunting industry with more than 300 exhibitors from around the country. Kids’ activities, live concerts, demonstrations and lots of special guests will be featured. For more info, visit www.buckmasters.com/Resources/Expo.
Saturday, August 18
Mark Farner’s American Band at MPAC 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Legendary all-American frontman and guitarist Mark Farner was the engine that pulled the original Grand Funk Railroad to the top of the charts, and today he’s a platinum recording artist 30 times over. Tickets begin at $35. For more info, visit www.mpaconline. org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Hog Days of Summer
3-9 p.m. Union Station Train Shed, 300 Water Street. BBQ & music celebration raising money for Hogs for the Cause, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization focused on helping families who have been affected by pediatric brain cancer. An Americana-themed music component consisting of three bands will be rocking the shed, and a Kids’ Zone complete with inflatables, arts and crafts, and games will be provided for enjoyment by guests of all ages. Advance tickets are $10 and $15 day of show tickets. For more info, visit www. hogdaysofsummer.com/.
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FamilyCalendar “You Are Enough” 9 a.m.-noon. Frazer United Methodist Church. A gathering for women, featuring keynote speaker Janeese Spencer of Venture Life Coaching and breakout sessions with Counselor Brandi McNew and Life Coach Boo Archer. $10 includes light breakfast. For more info, contact Susan Fisher at susan@ frazerumc.org or (334) 495-6465. Benefit the Bard featuring The 5th Dimension and The Spinners 7:30 p.m. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Wind Creek Hospitality and ASF present legendary soul and R&B groups The 5th Dimension and The Spinners. Led by original member Florence LaRue, The 5th Dimension produced some of the most popular songs of the late ’60s and early ’70s, such as the Grammy-Award winning “Up, Up and Away” and “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In.” One of the most successful soul groups of the ’70s, The Spinners have topped both the Pop and R&B charts with hits such as “I’ll Be Around” and “Then Came You.” Limited seating is available. Visit http://asf.net/project/benefit-the-bard/ or call (334) 271-5353. Third Saturday @ Art Museum
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/. Gator Tails at Alabama Nature Center 11:30 a.m. Join us as we delve into the swamp to take a look at one of its top predators! During this program you will learn about these prehistoriclooking creatures as well as get to meet our baby alligator, “Delta!” Kids will make a cool take-home alligator craft as part of the program. All materials provided. General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. Confederate Memorial Park Camp of Instruction 437 Co Rd 63, Marbury. Members of the 33rd Alabama Infantry will be on duty at our Civil War Camp of Instruction site all day giving demonstrations and answering questions on soldier life during the war. For more info, call (205) 755-1990.
Sunday, August 19
Music for Missions 6-7 p.m. Frazer United Methodist Church. A free concert featuring songs of joy for organ and other instruments, with donations accepted to benefit Transformation Montgomery. Includes performances from organists Kelley Garrett & Jim Conely; pianist Sallye York; trumpeters Shaun Mitchell & Don Boatwright; percussionist Samantha Ammeter; and Charles Hightower on bagpipes. For more info, contact Wayne Sigler at wayne@frazerumc.org or (334) 495-6340.
Monday, August 20
Def Leppard and Journey at BirminghamJefferson Convention Complex 7 p.m. Tickets begin at $47. For tickets or more info, visit www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400.
Tuesday, August 21
Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform
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original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org.
of theatre that promises to stay with you. For more info, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530.
Dollar Dog Tuesdays at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball -Also August 28 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Every Tuesday, fans can purchase hot dogs for only $1! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255.
Rick And Bubba Outdoor Expo -- Thru Aug. 26 Begins at 5 p.m. on Friday, 11 a.m. Saturday and noon Sunday at Birmingham-Jefferson Convention Complex. Adult tickets $12. Children 12 & under free. For tickets or more info, visit www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400.
Thursday, August 23
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. The topic will be “Lifelong Learning at AUM” presented by Dr. Nancy Anderson. Cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, August 20, to Suzanne Lowry at (334) 396-5368 or zanzuzan@charter.net. Visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com for more info. Military Open House at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 5:30-7:30 p.m. All active-duty military veterans and their immediate families are invited to join us for a free summer evening of family fun. Guests will enjoy artmaking activities, music, and a family-friendly dinner. This event is our way of saying thank you for your service. Following the event, head across the park to the Montgomery Symphony Orchestra’s 32nd annual Broadway Under the Stars concert, which begins at 7:30 p.m. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ discover/military-open-house/ or call (334) 625-4333. Montgomery Symphony Presents Broadway Under the Stars 7:30-10 p.m. Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Blount Cultural Park. Picnic baskets and coolers are welcome at this FREE concert of Broadway showtunes performed lakeside. Gates open at 5 p.m for picnicking. $40 reserves your parking, table & chair, catered dinner, and a drink ticket! This fundraiser picnic is open to all and supports the scholarship programs of the Montgomery Symphony League. Call (334) 240-4004 for details.
Friday, August 24
Clay for Kids Registration/check-in at 8 a.m. Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Club, 4758 Lower Wetumpka Rd., Montgomery. Fun-filled day of competition shooting, fellowship, food and prizes. Team registration includes T-shirt and lunch. $200 per team. All proceeds benefit Butterfly Bridge Children’s Advocacy Center. For more info, call (334) 478-4094 or e-mail ehutcheson@butterflybridgecac.org. Cloverdale Playhouse Theatre Presents the Risk Theater Initiative Production of Stiff -Through August 25 7:30 p.m. performances. Written and performed by Sherry Jo Ward; directed by Marianne Galloway. Stiff is the hit fast-paced comedy about moving slow that has been an award-winning audience favorite at festivals, conferences and theatres across the country. Actress and playwright Sherry Jo Ward was suddenly facing a career-ending diagnosis with a super-rare neuromuscular disease called Stiff Person Syndrome. Instead, she turned it into an autobiographical one-woman show that demonstrates her resilience, and her “sick” sense of humor. It’s a unique hour
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Saturday, August 25
9th Annual Little Miss & Miss River Region Pageant St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Fellowship Hall in Prattville. The pageant is open to females, age newborn to 18 years, with seven age categories. This is also an Open Preliminary pageant to the Sterling Miss USA Pageant for age categories Petite to Teen age divisions, ages 4 to 18 years. There are no area restrictions to compete in the Miss River Region Pageant. Sterling Miss USA will be back in Alabama this year and will be held April 6-7, 2019, at the Pell City Performing Arts Center in Pell City, Alabama. Applications may be downloaded at www.SterlingMiss.org. Applications and registration payments are due no later than August 18. For more info, call (334) 313-5444. 4th Annual ‘Stuff the Truck’ Food Drive 10 a.m.- 4 p.m. Sturbridge Winn Dixie, 7946 Vaughn Road. In conjunction with Alabama News Network, Tie and Doll, Inc. will collect non-perishable food to feed individuals and families in need in the River Region Area. All donations will be given to Montgomery Public Schools Backpack Program. Local residents and businesses are invited to bring non-perishable food items and literally “stuff” the truck. Call (334) 603-2663 for more info. Caoeing and Kayaking at Alabama Nature Center 11:30 a.m. Join us for some time on the water, here we will learn about canoeing and kayaking basics while enjoying some fun in the sun! If you have ever wanted to learn how to canoe or kayak this is the program for you! Life jackets and paddles will be provided. General admission applies: $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. 2018 Guardian Credit Union FCS Kickoff Cramton Bowl in Montgomery. The defending Historic Black College and University (HBCU) national champion North Carolina A&T Aggies and the four-time defending Ohio Valley Conference (OVC) champion Jacksonville State Gamecocks will square off. For more info, visit www.guardiankickoffclassic.com. Montgomery Dragon Boat Festival 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Riverfront Park, 355 Commerce Street. More than 60 teams from central Alabama and beyond converge to compete in this fundraiser which culminates in a dragon boat race. Off the water, browse various goods from local exhibitors and artists. Live music and food from local vendors will also be featured. Don’t miss the 2nd annual Gun Island Chute SUP CUP standup paddleboard competition on the Alabama River! For more info, call (334) 625-9411 or visit https:// montgomerydragonboat.org/. Alabama/Auburn Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball 6:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. The
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FamilyCalendar headliner of College Weekend, it’s time to see who will come out on top. Wear your favorite team apparel and compete all night to see who will emerge victorious! There will also be MAX fireworks following the game. For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Menopause the Musical -- Through September 16 Four women at a lingerie sale with nothing in common but a black lace bra AND memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and more! This hilarious musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! See what millions of women worldwide have been laughing about for 16 years! It’s the Hilarious Celebration of Women and The Change! Recommended ages 13+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353.
Thursday, August 30
Blackberry Smoke at MPAC 7:30 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. This band has had songs featured in movie and video game soundtracks, including EA Sports’ Madden NFL 16, performed on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno and Conan, and toured with The Marshall Tucker Band, ZZ Top, Lynyrd Skynyrd and George Jones. Tickets begin at $25. For more info, visit www. mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100.
Friday, August 31
Jake Owen: Life’s Whatcha Make It Tour 7:15 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. With special guests Chris Janson and Jordan Davis. For tickets or more info, visit biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 3232255.
Saturday, September 1
Big Cat Youth Fishing Tournament at Alabama Nature Center Kick-off is at 7 a.m. and anglers have the opportunity to weigh in their biggest catch every hour, starting at 8 a.m. with the final weigh-in at 11:45 a.m. Anglers must be between the ages of 6 and 15 to be eligible for this tournament. Cost is $25 and this tournament is not to exceed the first 60 registrants. Once participant capacity is reached, registration will close immediately and no further registrations will be accepted. For more info, call (334) 285-4550 or visit www.alabamawildlife.org/. Old Cahawba Canines, Camels, Cats & Critters Wagon Tour 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. This dog-friendly wagon tour will include some short walks and will transport you and your pooch to places throughout the park associated with Cahawba’s most notable animal ancestors. Well-behaved, leashed pets are welcome to join their humans on this one-hour guided tour of Old Cahawba. People without dogs are welcome to attend also. Call (334) 872-8058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www.facebook.com/ oldcahawba. Admission is $10/adults and $8/children.
Sunday, September 2
Labor Day Weekend Concert w/ Sister Hazel Grassy Lawn at The AMP on Lake Martin. Gates will open around 5 and the music starts at 7 p.m. with The Bank Walkers and then at 8:30 p.m., as the sun sets, Sister Hazel will take the stage. Tickets are on sale for $20. Kids 6 and under free. They are on The AMP website and will be available at the Company
Store at Russell Crossroads and the Russell Lands Corporate Office. Grab your lawn chairs and coolers. For more info, visit www.theamponlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 397-1019.
Wednesday, September 5
Muses at Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Also September 19 4 p.m. The Muses is a teen council that enjoys creative experiences and collaborates to help shape the Museum’s teen program offerings and more. Participation allows students to meet professional artists and peers, learn about working in an arts and cultural organization, and gain real-world experience in event-planning, outreach, and project management. To learn how to represent your school and become part of the Muses, contact Elisabeth at epalmer@mmfa.org or call (334) 625-4362.
Friday, September 7
Birmingham-Jefferson Covention Complex Presents Paw Patrol Live: Race to the Rescue Through September 9 All paws on deck! Nickelodeon and VStar Entertainment Group present an all-new action-packed, music-filled production based on the top-rated animated preschool series. Tickets begin at $21. For tickets or more info, visit www.bjcc.org/ or call (205) 458-8400.
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SupportGroups Saturday, September 8
Black Jacket Symphony Presents AC/DC Back In Black at MPAC 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. A selected album is performed in its entirety by a group of hand-picked musicians specifically selected for each album. 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. For more info, visit www. mpaconline.org/ or call (334) 481-5100. Red Tails Over Montgomery Air Show Gates open starting at 9 a.m. with aerial demonstrations featuring the ACC F-22 Raptor Demo Team beginning around 11:30 a.m. at the 187th Fighter Wing, Alabama Air National Guard, 5187 Selma Hwy, Montgomery. Bring the kids for this free, family-friendly event that’s fun for all ages. Parking is at several off-site locations, with bus transportation to the base. Visit www.RedTailAirshow.com, or www.187fw.ang.af.mil/AirShow. Free and open to the public! Call (334) 394-7157 for more info.
Classes Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 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 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.
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Childbirth Preparation (Four Sessions on Monday Nights) This four-session class is taught by Registered Labor and Delivery Nurses on the campus of Baptist South. This class for new mothers covers topics ranging from how your body changes during pregnancy to signs of labor to the benefits of breastfeeding and what to expect during your birth experience. This class is complimentary. To register, call (334) 286-3466. 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. Cloverdale Playhouse Rep Class Series First Mondays every month from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Cloverdale Playhouse Rehearsal Hall. This is a safe space to work on your craft, develop your audition skills, share your newest piece, or just get feedback on your latest artistic endeavor. Guest panels and rotating faculty ensure constant growth and a variety of insight. Even if you don’t perform every time - you can learn a lot by observing! There will be a sign-up sheet if you would like to work. Call (334) 262-1530 with questions. CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 747-7700 Option # for more information.
for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334430-7569 or e-mail bolson@alabamachild.org. 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 for more info. 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.
Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 7477700 Option # 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
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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.
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SupportGroups 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 2734445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next classes are August 15 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa. org for more info.
Support Groups Adoption Support
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., at Vaughn Forest Church. For more info, contact Jill Sexton at 409-9477 or jsexton@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.
Cancer Support
American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore & Autauga Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call 1-800-ACS2345 for more info. OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800-ACS-2345. Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000.
General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie at 467-4578. Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.
Divorce Support
DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Come to the Library area. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. Call 495-6350 or jan@frazerumc.org. 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) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com.
Grief Support
Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open
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SupportGroups to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@aol.com for more info. Bereavement Group, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. For more info, call 279-6677. Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721. Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 495-6350 for more info. GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is nondenominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.
more information.
Homeschool Support
ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays year-round from 10 a.m. to noon. This is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com
Parent Support
D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. 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 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. For 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. 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.
Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009. Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202. Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail. com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group. River Region Survivors of Suicide Loss meets on second and fourth Thursdays (excluding holidays) at Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road in Montgomery from 6:30-8 p.m. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
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, 9:30-11:30 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.montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165.
Pregnancy Loss/Infertility
Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information. “Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist, 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 information.
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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. 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. 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 familyoriented 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.
Special Needs Support
Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. 2018 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. D.A.T.S. M.O.M. (Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move), a free online parent empowerment network for parents of children on the autism spectrum (or with related special needs challenges) that focuses on inspiring, equipping and motivating parents to move their child’s disability to an ability. Follow DATS MOM on Facebook, Twitter and Periscope for live sessions and discussion. E-mail datsmom@yahoo.com for more information. 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. For info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net.
Teens/Families Support
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.
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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.
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Hill er th 16
FC Montgomery Soccer Academy, 38
OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 19
First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 43
O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 79
Frazer Memorial UMC, 40
Party Posse, 33
Abrakadoodle, 59
Grant Joy Learning, 27
Prattville YMCA, 45
Adventure Sports II, 83
Great Leaps Learning Center, 33
Professional Pediatrics, 12
Alabama Christian Academy, 26
Guild Mortgage, 61
Pump It Up Party, 50
Alabama Dance Theatre, 73
Guitar Center, 72
Read Write Learning, 3
AL Dept. of Health, Inside Front, 7
Holy Cross Episcopal School, 49
Redland Baptist Church MMO, 59
Alabama Orthopedic Specialists, 11
Hooper Academy, 19
RR Dermatology and Laser, Inside Back
IEPA Academy, 36, 40
River Region TV, 46
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AL School of Math & Science, 9 Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 29 Armory Athletics, 74 ASKIN/Synergy House, 40 Autauga/Western Elmore Arc, 28 Baptist Health, 4 Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 25 Chapman Orthodontics, 21 Children’s Clothing Exchange, 63 Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 21 Churchill Academy, 22 Cupcake Castles Travel, 89 Dance Generation, 79 Dentistry for Children, 38 Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 47 Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 83
Inflatables of Montgomery, 67 Jackson Hospital, 77 K Lynn Ice Skating School, 20 Kindermusik of Montgomery, 42 Kingry Orthodontics, 37 Lakeview Baptist Church, 36 Learning Tree Child Care, 14 Little Lights Creative Learning Ctr, 36 Lola Photography & Portrait Studio, 75 Macon East Academy, 15 Mathnasium, 71 Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 18 Montessori @ Mulberry, 17 Montgomery Catholic Schools, 13 Montgomery Lice Treatement Ctr, 35 Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 73
Riverview Camp for Girls, 87 Rockin’ Jump, 58 Saint James School, 1 Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 2 Shade Tree Riding Stables, 42 Spotless Cleaning Services, 8 St. John’s Episcopal Choir, 74 Success Unlimited Academy, 31 Swim Prep, 51 Sylvan Learning Center, 67 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 20 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover Tomatino’s Pizza/Cafe Louisa, 68 Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 72 Trinity Presbyterian School, 39 Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 85
Easter Seals Central Alabama, 25
Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 32
Eastern Hills Child Care Ministry, 25
Montgomery Storks and More, 50
United Gymstars & Cheer, 35
EDGE Virtual School, 47
Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 69
Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 85
Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 89
New Hope Academy, 51
Vaughn Park Preschool, 65
Evangel Christian Academy, 28
New Park, 55
Victory Christian Academy, 66
Family Guidance Center, 70, 81
Newtopia, 53
YMCA After School Care, 45 91
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MP: How would you describe your parenting style? Andrea: I definitely have a balanced approach to parenting and my style varies with each of my children. If my child has proven that he or she does not need reminders from me to take care of school work or chores at home, I tend to let them practice their autonomy. If my child needs more reminders, I tend to be more hands on when needed. There is definitely not a one-style-fits-all approach at our house! MP: What routine do you practice in your home that has promoted better family time? Andrea: One rule that we have is that all screens in the house are turned off at 6 pm on weeknights during the school year. This includes tablets, game consoles, and TV. Luckily, our children love to play outside, so we don’t often struggle with the screen battle. Having the 6:00 rule gives our home a chance to truly unwind, quiet down after a long day, and ensures better sleep. Since our children were babies, our nightly routine also concluded with our children snuggling down in bed and reading. Even at ages 9 and 11, we still love to read to them! As an educator, I tell parents often that a major component to academic success is to have children read, read, read and to read to them!
Andrea Harris
MP: Andrea, you’ve had the opportunity to be a stay-athome mom as well as a career mom. In your opinion, what are the benefits and drawbacks of each?
MP: What is your favorite thing to do with your family? Andrea: Since Martin is from England, we love more than anything to travel with our children. We travel abroad almost every summer, but each visit is different. We often ask the children for their input on what they would like to do. The older they get, the more they truly do appreciate other cultures and places. Seeing the world through their innocent eyes is such a blessing.
Andrea: Each has their own joys and challenges. I was a stay-at-home mom for several years before returning to Saint James School. During that time, I enjoyed being in charge of the children’s schedules and playing at home with them. I thought it was crucial from early on, though, to begin to socialize them. We joined play groups and they did Mother’s Morning Out. Those experiences were good for them and allowed me time to socialize with and learn from other moms! When I returned to my career in education, continuing with a routine and being organized helped tremendously. Working outside the home has allowed me to grow professionally and I enjoy talking about that with my children. I think it’s great for them to see their mom doing something she’s passionate about.
MP: What do you feel is the benefit of traveling…for children especially? Andrea: We adore our little corner of the world where we live. However, having lived abroad myself and having family abroad, we want our children to grow up seeing a little more of our big, amazing world. Traveling with children is a great way to unwind together, away from the daily routines of life, and just enjoy exploring new things together. A lot of people think that traveling abroad with children is a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be! MP: For you, what is the most rewarding part of being a mom? Andrea: Seeing our children safe, happy, and becoming leaders among their peers is so rewarding. Seeing their faces light up when they have accomplished something they have worked hard at, or when they show kindness to someone, are times when parenting is truly rewarding.
MP: You mentioned that the key to success is organization. How do you implement organization in your home? Andrea: During the school year, we have clear expectations of what our children do in our home to help our house run. For example, they make their own school lunches, lay out their own school uniforms the night before, pack their own snacks and water bottles, and have a nightly routine. Giving even young children responsibilities in the home is beneficial for them. It’s good for children to see how working together at home is encouraging and supportive for everyone. Another thing I do that helps as a working mom is to meal plan. Martin and I look at the calendar every two weeks, write down activities, work trips, and other calendar events, and I plan dinners for each night of that two week period. I then plan my shopping list around our meal plan. There’s no guessing at what’s for dinner!
Montgomery Parents I August 2018
MP: What advice would you give to our readers who may be beginning their parenting journey? Andrea: Enjoy your children! Take time to enjoy even the smallest moments. Laugh with them, play with them, pray with them, sing with them, read with them. We often hear that time passes quickly, but it is so true! Andrea Harris is the Principal at Saint James Elementary School. She has been married to Martin for 16 years and they have two children: Zane (11) and Maggie (9).
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The Montgomery Academy is proud of its Class of 2018!
MA’s last five graduating classes were accepted to these colleges and universities: Alcorn State University Appalachian State University Arizona State University Auburn University Auburn University at Montgomery Baylor University Belhaven University Belmont University Berry College Birmingham-Southern College Boston College Boston University Bradley University Brandeis University Brevard College Carnegie Mellon University Case Western Reserve University Centre College Claflin University Clark Atlanta University Clemson University Colby College College of Charleston College of William & Mary Columbia University Columbus State University Connecticut College Dartmouth College Davidson College DePaul University DePauw University Duke University Eckerd College Emory and Henry College Emory University
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School of Visual Arts Sewanee: The University of the South Slippery Rock University Southeastern Louisiana University Southern Methodist University Southern University and Agricultural & Mechanical College Spelman College Spring Hill College St. John’s College St. John’s University Stanford University Stetson University Syracuse University Temple University Tennessee State University Tennessee Tech University Texas A&M University Texas Christian University The Citadel Troy University Tulane University United States Air Force Academy United States Military Academy United States Naval Academy University of Alabama University of Alabama at Birmingham University of Alabama in Huntsville University of Arizona University of Arkansas University of California, Berkeley University of California, Davis University of California, Irvine
Mercer University Metropolitan State University of Denver Miami University of Ohio Middle Tennessee State University Millsaps College Mississippi State University Montana State University Mount Holyoke College Murray State University New York University North Carolina School of the Arts North Carolina State University Northwestern University Nova Southeastern University Oberlin College Ohio State University Oklahoma State University Oxford College of Emory University Pace University Parsons School of Design Pepperdine University Prairie View A&M University Pratt Institute Princeton University Purchase College SUNY Purdue University Rhode Island School of Design Rhodes College Rollins College Samford University Savannah College of Art and Design School of the Art Institute of Chicago
University of California, Los Angeles University of California, San Diego University of Colorado University of Denver University of Florida University of Georgia University of Glasgow University of Hartford University of Houston University of Illinois at Chicago University of Illinois at UrbanaChampaign University of Kentucky University of Louisiana at Lafayette University of Louisville University of Massachusetts Amherst University of Massachusetts Boston University of Memphis University of Miami University of Michigan University of Minnesota University of Mississippi University of Mobile University of Montevallo University of New Orleans University of North Alabama University of North Carolina at Asheville University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of North Carolina at Charlotte University of North Carolina at Wilmington
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