Montgomery Parents August 2016

SAINT JAMES SCHOOL CLASS OF 2016

Turning Dreams into Reality Saint James School’s college preparatory curriculum blends superior academics and state-of-the-art technology with engaging enrichment classes and innovative pre-college major electives.

The school’s talented and dedicated faculty is a vital component of the learning equation, creating a welcoming yet challenging atmosphere to assist students from grades Pre-K3 through 12 become young men and women of character, who are self-motivated, intellectually curious, reflective, and articulate.

Visit Saint James and experience first-hand the most complete education offered in Central Alabama.

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

334.273.2992

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

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

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The Family Birth Center at Jackson Hospital

has received a spectacular $3-million renovation.

We think you’ll love the colorful mosaic mural and light, airy color scheme that lets you know you’ve arrived in a special place. And we can’t wait to show you the spacious labor, delivery and postpartum suites so that you and your family can share in your joy. New stateof-the-art equipment and experienced nurses will give you and your baby the exceptional care you’d expect in one of Alabama’s most advanced obstetrical facilities. Come see why Jackson Hospital is the premier location in the River Region to welcome your new baby.

TAKE A TOUR OF THE $3-MILLION, NEWLY RENOVATED FAMILY BIRTH CENTER B I R T H I N G C L A S S E S AVA I L A B L E • C A L L ( 3 3 4 ) 2 9 3 - 8 4 9 7 F O R M O R E I N F O R M AT I O N “NIGHTINGALE OF PARADISE” MOSAIC MURAL BY ENID PROBST MADE POSSIBLE BY GRANTS FROM THE ALABAMA STATE COUNCIL ON THE ARTS, NATIONAL ENDOWMENT FOR THE ARTS AND COMMUNITY DONORS.

PHOTO ABOVE FAR LEFT BY RANDY SEWELL

PHOTO ABOVE THIRD FROM LEFT BY MARIA NUNEZ

Blue Distinction Centers (BDC) met overall quality measures for patient safety and outcomes, developed with input from the medical community. A Local Blue Plan may require additional criteria for facilities located in its own service area; for details, contact your Local Blue Plan. Blue Distinction Centers+ (BDC+) also met cost measures that address consumers’ need for affordable healthcare. Each facility’s cost of care is evaluated using data from its Local Blue Plan. Facilities in CA, ID, NY, PA, and WA may lie in two Local Blue Plans’ areas, resulting in two evaluations for cost of care; and their own Local Blue Plans decide whether one or both cost of care evaluation(s) must meet BDC+ national criteria. National criteria for BDC and BDC+ are displayed on www.bcbs.com. Individual outcomes may vary. For details on a provider’s in-network status or your own policy’s coverage, contact your Local Blue Plan and ask your provider before making an appointment. Neither Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association nor any Blue Plans are responsible for non-covered charges or other losses or damages resulting from Blue Distinction or other provider finder information or care received from Blue Distinction or other providers.

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August2016 42

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Volume 21 Number 8

Columns 6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

Strategies for Academic Success

Practical ideas to help your child become more organized.

Beyond Burnout and Bickering

Avoid over-scheduling so kids can individuate.

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Montgomery Education Matters

by Superintendent Margaret Allen

30 Autauga Education Matters

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by Superintendent Spence Agee

34 Elmore Education Matters

by Superintendent Andre L. Harrison

40 Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

44 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

After School Activities

It’s time to sign your child up for after school enrichment, and our guide has all the details.

Help Kids Cool Down

Discover techniques to help your children manage anger, from toddler to teen.

46 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

66 Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover Sisters Elizabeth Anne (17) and Gracie Kocher (15) attend Eastwood Christian School in Montgomery. Elizabeth Anne (Bizzy) will begin her senior year this month and enjoys playing volleyball and tennis for the Eastwood Warriors. Gracie (15) will be in 10th grade and also plays volleyball for Eastwood. The girls are the daughters of Mason and Alex Kocher of Montgomery.

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Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 78 Calendar/Support Groups 92 Movie Reviews

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Editor’sNote I can’t believe I’m already introducing you to our Back to School Issue. Maybe you can’t believe I am either! Our last days of summer break are upon us whether we want to believe it or not, so we might as well embrace the upcoming school year and start getting excited, right?

Switching gears from summer break to a new school year can be challenging, and each August Montgomery Parents is here to help make the transition a little smoother. First up is getting the kids signed up for after school activities and we have you covered with our 2016 After School Activities Guide. You’ll find details including registration dates, costs, classes offered and more in a variety of activities like dance, art, music, sports, horseback riding, and much more! Before signing them up take a moment to read Christina Katz’s article Beyond Burnout and Bickering where she challenges us to avoid overscheduling our children so they can find and truly enjoy what best suits them as individuals. Her advice will be helpful as you flip over and begin choosing your child’s after school schedule from our guide!

Next up is Michele Ranard’s article, 3 Strategies for Academic Success. Here you’ll find practical tips to help your children become more organized in order to achieve their academic goals this year. My daughter entering 10th grade has several goals in mind as she looks towards college and her dreams for adult life, but I know if she doesn’t get organized from the beginning and remain that way, she will end up disappointed. Michele’s article offers many important habits your kids can form right here at the beginning of school to ensure their best year yet!

Whether you have a young child or a teenager, a common theme among kids is that they get angry sometimes...and some more often than others. Maybe you have a toddler who throws herself on the floor in a fit when she doesn’t get her way, or maybe it’s your teenager who rolls his eyes, stomps away and slams the bedroom door so hard it shakes the house. If you’re like me, you’ve been the spectator to both of these examples and it’s no fun! Sarah Lyons shares an insightful article, Helping Kids Cool Down, where she discusses questions to ask and strategies to implement from toddler age through the teen years.

And with our teens in mind, and the rise of suicide rates among them, please be sure to read Mark Gregston’s Parenting Today’s Teens article this month. He discusses warning signs that parents can look for to know if their teen is contemplating suicide. It’s a tough subject I know, but because it’s one that has touched all our lives in some way (maybe even recently), we wanted Mark to share his experience and counsel.

Whether we are ready or not, that first school bell is going to ring this month.

We hope this issue of Montgomery Parents helps to not only get you ready, but also excited about a wonderful school year for your children and your family!

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

Montgomery Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Margaret Allen David Drennan, M.D. Mark Gregston Andre L. Harrison Carolyn Jabs Christina Katz Sarah Lyons Michele Ranard, M.Ed. John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith

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

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Montgomery Parents I August 2016

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

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Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123.

Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2015 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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FRAZER AUGUST TEACHING SERIES: OPEN YOUR LIFE TO GOD’S BLESSINGS AS YOU LEARN TO BE MORE OPEN TO THE PEOPLE AROUND YOU

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LivingWithChildren

by John Rosemond

Handling Mild Anxiety Issues Q:

My 8-year-old daughter is having anxiety issues that seem to border on obsessivecompulsive disorder. She wants me to repeat certain things back to her and has a set routine of things I must say when I’m tucking her into bed. She’s genuinely upset by all this and tells me she thinks there’s something wrong with her. I’d say it was something she can’t control, but she does not do this sort of thing when she’s alone with my husband. I’ve talked to her, tried ignoring her, refused to cooperate, and even yelled—all to no avail.

Could she have OCD at this age? Does she need medication? What can we do to help her?

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I can’t do a long-distance diagnosis; furthermore, I am of the heretical opinion that (a) a psychiatric diagnosis concerning a child this age is rarely helpful and can actually hinder a solution and (b) the risks of psychiatric medication with a child or teen often outweigh the benefits. Now, my opinions are not shared by a majority of my colleagues in the mental health professions, so if you feel the need for an in-person evaluation of your

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

daughter’s issues, by all means pursue one.

Based on the scant amount of information you provided but more than 40 years of experience in child and family psychology, my initial impression is that your daughter does not have a mental “disorder” that can be objectively determined. That she is exhibiting the behaviors in question only with you suggests that your relationship may have developed co-dependent aspects (a lack of emotional boundary between parent and child). If, for example, you tend to be an anxious, worrisome mom (not atypical these days, unfortunately), that would elevate the likelihood that your daughter will develop an anxiety issue of some sort.

Keep in mind that children look to their parents to interpret the world for them. In that regard, a parent’s frequent concern and worry about a child or a child’s academic performance can act as a self-fulfilling prophecy.

But even absent co-dependency or parental worries, children do odd, strange things at times. More often than not, and especially if parents handle these glitches calmly and confidently, they come and go.

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Sometimes, they may look “psychiatric,” but are nothing more than an example of the inevitable bumps in life’s road.

In any case, you need to experience parental competency with the behaviors at hand before they become habit and begin to spread to other people and situations.

Parents I’ve counseled concerning similar problems have had great success simply telling obsessing children that a doctor they spoke with says such kids aren’t getting enough sleep. Consequently, the doctor recommends that your daughter go to bed at 7 p.m., lights out, seven days a week until her obsessing has stopped for two weeks straight. During her rehabilitation you should take her out of activities that would prevent her from getting to bed at the appointed time, and she should not participate in sleepovers or evening birthday parties.

In the meantime, you must stop cooperating with your daughter’s requests/demands, no matter how distraught she becomes when you do. Blame it all on the doctor.

If my experience serves me well, I predict that this will be memory in a couple of months. If it isn’t, then you should definitely seek a professional evaluation.

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

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

we’re here for you.

Sunday Morning Small Groups - 9:15 a.m.

Sunday Morning Worship - 10:30 a.m.

9 7505 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery, Alabama 36117 334.396.9811

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Buckmasters Expo

Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Events

For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball. com or call (334) 323-2255.

Dollar Dog Tuesday August 2 & 23 * Start time 7:05 p.m. Enjoy dinner and a game with $1 hot dogs!

Military Wednesday and Wings Fest August 3 * Start time 7:05 p.m. Fly on over to try our limited edition wing flavors.

Eat-a-Palooza August 12 * Start time 7:05 p.m. Enjoy a game and all you can eat.

MAX Fireworks and Olympics Night August 13 * Start time 6:35 p.m. Enjoy the largest fireworks show of the month! Also, grab your shorts and your sweatbands as we honor our national athletes competing in the 2016 Olympics.

Back-to-School Kids Day August 14 * Start time 5:35 p.m. Bring the whole family! The kids can enjoy playing catch in the field before the game and running the bases after the game! September 4 will also be a Bark in the Park (bring your dogs for free) and Kids Run the Bases Day!

August 19-21 Montgomery Convention Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street. The expo is open from 3-9 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday.

Shop for hunting bargains from more than 300 exhibitors and vendors who are all a part of the biggest hunting sale ever! Experts from top manufacturers will be manning booths to answer all your questions.

Watch the nation’s best archers compete in the Top Bow World championship.

Bring your kids to the Young Bucks area for games, hunting-related activities, mascots Bucky and Droptine, Balloon Man and much more. Admittance to the expo is free with a donation of a canned good per person.

For more info, call (334) 215-3337 or visit www.buckmasters.com/Resources/Expo.

Montgomery Dragon Boat Race & Festival August 27 * 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

Almost 80 teams will converge downtown at the beautiful Riverfront Park to paddle and party on Race Day in the pursuit of the Grand Championship Trophy while supporting the missions of our two local beneficiaries, Bridge Builders Alabama and Rebuilding Together Central Alabama. The Riverfront Park will be alive with music, entertainment, and more than 30 local vendors, artists, and exhibitors while teams compete on the water in view of more than 8,000 spectators! For more info, visit montgomerydragonboat.org/ or call (334) 625-9411.

New Movie Venue Opens Soon!

Saturdays in August at 11 a.m.

Spend every Saturday of August traveling the world in the cool confines of the auditorium in Old Alabama Town. On August 6, John Schneider will present Uganda; on August 13, Steve Brickley and Jim Hodgson will present Amsterdam to Spain; on August 20, Frances Durr will present France & the Caverns of Chaurat; and on August 27, McDowell Crook will present Trekking through Wyoming’s Wilds. Free to the public. For more info, visit www.landmarksfoundation.com.

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

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August Events at Lanark Visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ for details on any of these events.

14th Annual Youth Fishing Rodeo August 6 from 7-11 a.m.

Open to anyone age 15 and under. Admission is free, but participants are asked to pre-register as space is limited and all youth must be accompanied by an adult. Each young angler will receive a T-shirt and be eligible for door prizes.

Snacks and drinks available. In addition, each child may take home five catfish each, but may catch and release even more. You are encouraged to bring your own fishing equipment and bait, though a limited number of loaner rods and reels and some bait will be available.

Still Creek Trek August 13 Join us for a trek through Still Creek as well as take a look at some of the cool things that can only be found in the creek! Be prepared to get wet. Bringing a change of clothes is suggested; shoes or sandals (chacos or tevas) are required, no flip flops. You will not need a life jacket. Events begin at 10 a.m.

GO Fishing (Catch & Release) August 20 From bass to catfish, the ponds are stocked and ready for your line! A limited number of fishing poles will be available for $2 a day as well as a limited amount of bait for a small fee. Guests are encouraged to arrive early, stroll through the Discovery Hall, watch a movie, enjoy some catch & release fishing, bring a picnic lunch, and even take a selfguided hike on the trails.

Canoeing and Kayaking August 27 Join us for some time on the water to 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! Events begin at 10 a.m.

Evans Theatres based in Norman, Okla., is turning the former Eastdale Mall Cinema into the next Evans location. Tentative open date is August 19. The business will offer first-run movies at value prices, such as $3 discounts on Tuesdays and $3 classic films every week, such as The Goonies, Princess Bride, Back to the Future and many more! Please “like” Evans Theatres Eastdale 8 on Facebook for updates.

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Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday Weekend

August 5-7 Beginning at 12:01 a.m. (CST) on Friday and ending at midnight on Sunday, Alabama will hold its eleventh annual sales tax holiday giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, and clothing free of state sales or use tax. Local sales and use tax may apply. For more info, visit www.revenue. alabama.gov/salestax/SalesTaxHol.cfm.

Wetumpka Depot Begins After-School Program This Fall

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Old Alabama Town 2sdays Through August 30 From 9 a.m.-4 p.m., keep the summer boredom at bay with OAT 2sdays! Purchase one child’s admission to Old Alabama Town and another gets in FREE! Bring your children to tour our living history museum and experience an authentic 1850s Alabama summer.

While you are here, participate in our new scavenger hunt! The hunt will entertain all ages, and can be turned back in for a prize at the Museum Gift Shop! Visit www.landmarksfoundation.com/visit or call (334) 240-4500.

All aboard Wetumpka’s most exciting after-school theatre program! After a 36-year history of providing summer theatre experiences for youth, the Wetumpka Depot Players are launching a brand-new after-school theatre education program for young artists. Young artists will work with instructors in a nurturing and creative environment to learn the basics of all things theatre.

Children K-2nd grade may enroll in our Crafty Caboosers program that runs for 10 sessions on Tuesday afternoons, September-November. Our Energetic Engineers (3rd-6th grade) will meet on Mondays and Wednesday afternoons (15 sessions) September-November. The basics of storytelling, character development, stage movement and other exciting skills will all culminate to an end-of-the-session program for family and friends!

Book your tickets for a space in the Depot Days Youth Acting Academy by emailing kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com or calling (334) 868-1440.

Magical Creatures Program at the Montgomery Zoo

September 10 from 10 a.m.-noon.

Meet some of the magical animals that are featured in movies like Harry Potter and The Hobbit. Get a chance to meet them up close, learn about them in their habitats, and take home some special prizes for yourself.

Geared for boys and girls, aged 4-10 years old. Advanced reservations are required.

Event 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. Register online or at the Montgomery Zoo’s Admission office. For more info, call (334) 240-4909 or e-mail jhutcheson@montgomeryal.gov.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Is Your Child Exposed?

This summer the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) updated its recommendations for the prevention of childhood lead toxicity. The action was in response not only to the Flint Michigan drinking water crisis but also because of a growing body of scientific evidence that indicates even low levels of blood lead may cause permanent cognitive, academic, or behavioral difficulties in children. Apparently there are many investigators that believe that there is no safe level of blood lead concentration for children and the best treatment for lead poisoning is to prevent exposure.

In the U.S. dramatic drops in children’s blood lead concentrations occurred when lead was eliminated from gasoline, paint, and other consumer products. Our children, however, may still be exposed to lead in their homes and communities. Children are at high risk of lead exposure as soon as they teethe and start to crawl and explore their environment. Older homes that are being renovated or are poorly maintained may be a source of exposure. Environmental contamination can result from factories when lead contained in exhaust settles in the surrounding soil. Water flow from streams or lakes through aging pipes may leach out lead into the tap water.

Hobby materials, vinyl mini blinds, imported dishware, and toys may be another lead

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

source. Certain occupations may have lead dust exposure and pose a risk of clothes contamination that may be brought home.

Welders, employees who work with batteries or who construct leaded glass containers or windows may be at risk. People working on firearm ranges with lead dust from the use of lead bullets can also expose their children after coming home.

The AAP recommends primary care providers screen 12-24 month old children for elevated blood lead levels, especially for those who live in areas where 25% or more of housing was built before 1960. Monitoring should also be done in children who already have a blood level greater than 5 micrograms per deciliter. It also recommends individual assessments of old houses that have not been well maintained or have undergone extensive repairs or renovations in the past 6 months.

How do parents protect their children from lead exposure?

1) Test your house for lead especially if built before 1978. Consult the local health dept.

2) In older homes with known lead paint on walls, learn safe ways to make repairs and minimize dust exposure throughout the

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house. Consult with a licensed contractor about lead dust control.

3) Keep children away from old window casings, porches and other areas with peeling or chipping paint.

4) Do not allow children to play on bare ground around the house. These areas could have lead deposited in the soil. Plant grass or spread mulch over the areas.

5) Clean house regularly to eliminate dust.

6) Always make children wash their hands before eating.

7) Always use cold flushed tap water for cooking and drinking. Make sure cold water runs for one minute before using. Have water tested for lead.

8) Eat healthy food high in calcium and iron to reduce lead absorption.

Dr. Drennen earned his medical degree from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 1975 and is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He began his private practice of pediatric medicine in Loveland, Colorado. He then practiced in Ozark, Alabama before coming to Professional Pediatrics in 1998. He and his wife Rebecca have two sons.

The entire family enjoys downhill skiing and beach activities.

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Back to School-Be in School Summer’s over, and it is time to welcome students and families back to school. August 10 is the date the new school year begins!

We will have 180 days allotted to giving each student instruction in what he or she needs to know and be able to do at the new grade level. This is a massive undertaking and requires so much from so many. We want to begin the year expressing to Montgomery Public School families the importance of students being in school every day and being on time! Of course, it is significant to keep a student home if he or she is running a fever and/ or if they are contagious. Otherwise, it

is of vital importance that children are in school every day.

If an absence is necessary, parents are required to send a note to the school stating the reason for the absence. If this doesn’t happen, the student incurs an “un-excused” absence which could indeed have further negative consequences that may impact the student’s grade. Parents must send the note to school within three days of the student’s return to school. It is always a good idea to follow up to ensure the student remembered to give the note to the teacher.

The bigger issue, however, is if a student is not in school he or she is missing valuable instruction. Content in most subjects build on earlier concepts, so missing just a day or two can have an undesirable impact on learning – especially in subjects like math and science.

A student is more likely to be successful if he or she is able to hear and actively participate in complete lessons than to

experience a shortened re-teaching of the lesson.

In the coming days, we will be unveiling a new program to help students and parents better understand the importance of being in class every day; the program will offer incentives for students to be in class. It is an exciting program that we hope will help motivate students. However, parents are the key to ensuring students are in school, on-time, and prepared with adequate rest and completed assignments.

Students are never too old for parents to make sure that they are in school by the first bell with homework complete.

We are very excited about the new school year and committed to doing what’s best for our students! Thank you for your help in making each day a success.

Allen began working for Montgomery Public Schools as a special education teacher in 1976. She holds administrative certification from Alabama State University, a masters of arts in early childhood, a masters of arts in early childhood/handicapped, and a bachelor’s of science in elementary education and special education – all from Auburn University Montgomery.

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Montgomery County Schools

McKee Middle’s STEM Team Wins at Regionals

Pike Road School Applies For $10M Grant

Pike Road School hopes to win a $10 million grant from a company called XQ that is working to change the way high school students learn. PRS Superintendent Dr. Suzanne Freeman says the school’s eighthgrade students played a big role in getting them to the final phase of the grant process.

“As you know, we’re adding a grade level every year with our first graduating class in May of 2020, so it’s exciting for our children, especially our eighth-graders, to work on that and create their high school, and then own it,” said Freeman.

If Pike Road wins the grant, it will allow the school to expand its current efforts into a high school curriculum.

The XQ Super School Project team met in June with students and administrators from Pike Road School. Freeman says the project fits perfectly with the mission of the school system.

“Our mission is to create a culture of intellectual curiosity,” she said. “That means we want children to be curious, we want them to be lifelong learners, ask questions…”

XQ Super School Project is an organization looking to shake up the way high school students are taught today.

“We’re looking at communities across the country to really rethink what high school could, and should, look like in their communities,” explained Sacha Ostern with the XQ Super School Project, “and we’re hoping that students can be a big part of that and voice what they think that they would like for their high schools to look like.”

The five finalists for the grant will be announced on August 4.

(Information from this article was obtained from WSFA and Alabama News Network.)

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

For a fifth year, the McKee Middle STEM (science, technology, engineering and math) Team has won top awards during the 2016 Southeastern Consortium for Minorities in Engineering’s (SECME) Regional Competition. Each year, the competition draws hundreds of students from middle and high schools across the country who learn about STEM careers, tour college campuses, and have opportunities to compete in the areas of bottle rocketry, mousetrap car and robotics.

This year, McKee’s mousetrap teams placed first, second and third in the competition. The school also racked up first-, second- and third-place wins in the bottle rocket category and had students place second and third in the essay contest division. The team also had an opportunity to compete at National SECME June 20-23, on the campus of Tennessee State University.

Trinity Varsity and JV Dance Teams Receive High Honors at Camp

The Trinity Varsity and Junior Varsity Dance Teams are officially ready to start their 201617 seasons! After tryouts in March, both teams began to vigorously prepare for camp and the upcoming season with early morning workouts, dance technique and training.

Trinity’s Junior Varsity Dancers attended camp with Universal Dance Association at University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) earlier this summer. Led by Coach Jordy Cheney, the girls placed first in their Home Pom routine with a Superior trophy, which gave the team a bid to Nationals in Orlando, Florida. They also received the Super Spirit Stick the first day of camp as well as six All-American Dancers, including freshman Caroline Parkman, co-captain and freshman Emma Pittman, along with eighth graders Olivia Reid, Penelope Diaz, Caroline Love, and Lily Windham.

Trinity’s Varsity Wildcat “Paws” Dancers led by Jenny Letner recently attended camp with Universal Dance Association at Auburn University. At the end of an exciting week the girls received first place in their division for their Home Pom routine, a Superior trophy with a bid to Nationals in Orlando, Florida. They also received the Team Full Out Award, Super Spirit Stick, and the prestigious Camp Leadership award, which is voted on by other campers. Three All-Americans were chosen from the Varsity team, including Madison Bowen, Kacey Tinney and Charlie Ward.

Both teams did a fantastic job at camp and are ready to bring their Wildcat spirit for a great season!

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Montgomery County Schools

STJ Sends Top Students To Bridge Builders Alabama

Alabama Christian Academy Hosts 7v7 Football Tournament

Alabama Christian Academy hosted its third annual 7v7 football tournament and lineman challenge in late June. Participants in the tournament included ACA, Trinity, Saint James, Montgomery Academy, Montgomery Catholic, Mobile Christian, and Highland Home.

Eleven juniors from Saint James School were selected to join Bridge Builders Alabama for the coming academic year. Bridge Builders is designed to promote communication, understanding and trust among developing leaders through community projects, discussions, adventure education, and first-hand experiences with community leaders.

During the Junior Bridge Builders’ summer residential conference this June, the focus areas for the participants included public speaking, civic responsibility, critical thinking, trust, problem solving, communication, conflict resolution, human relations, and leadership.

Through their application and selection process, Bridge Builders Alabama searches for high school students who want to “find their voice, experience their power, and build positive relationships to do the extraordinary.” They work to develop future leaders who will lay aside individual, social, economic, and cultural differences and work for the benefit of all.

Front row from left are Mya Averett, Chandler Armagost and Annie Skoneki; middle row, Adia Foster, Hannah Yost and Baylor Belich; and back, Claudia Hubbard, Denson Clark, Katie McIntyre, Hawthorne Ramsey and JB Ramsey.

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MEA Sends Delegates to Alabama Boys & Girls State

Rising seniors Will Dowe and Rai Pritchett represented Macon East Academy at this year’s Alabama Boys and Girls State events at the University of Alabama. Sponsored by the American Legion, Boys and Girls State is a weeklong leadership program that provides delegates with a working knowledge of how government functions at the city, county and state level.

Delegates from across the state are selected by school faculty based on their demonstration of leadership in their school and community. Throughout the week, delegates participated in mock government, field trips and hands-on exercises, as well as heard from an array of Alabama government and business leaders. Taking part in the political life of their community and state through campaigning, party caucuses, and the election process gave the delegates a new understanding and appreciation for the ideals of the American government.

As a delegate at Alabama Boys State, Dowe was elected to the Senate, where he wrote and debated various bills. Pritchett was a member of the Senate and the Federalist Party at Alabama Girls State, where she campaigned for the office of county commissioner.

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Montgomery County Schools

Holy Cross Episcopal School Graduates Class of 2016

On May 24, Holy Cross Episcopal School bode a fond farewell to another group of students headed to middle school. The graduation of the Class of 2016 was celebrated during Closing Chapel with Rev. Bob Hennagin and Rev. Candace Frazer officiating. Former Holy Cross teacher Matt Arrighi spoke to the students, teachers, families and friends recalling the times he shared with them, as well as offering advice for the future. Sixth-grade teacher Abbie Broam shared humorous thoughts and special memories about each student with those gathered to celebrate the occasion.

The graduates were then honored by the fifth-grade class with the performance of the song, “Child of Tomorrow.” After the service concluded, students and their guests dismissed to the school library, where they were treated to a slide show featuring pictures from throughout their childhoods and school days at Holy Cross. A reception hosted by the fifth-grade class and their parents provided the perfect opportunity for fellowship, well wishes and goodbyes.

PRS Students Build Float for July 4 Parade

Pike Road School Patriots worked hard on their float for the Pike Road 4th of July Parade.

Under the direction of Art Lead Learner Bethany Davis, learners put their own spin on the parade theme, “Old Glory: Past and Present.”

Learners showcased their American Pride by taking a step back in time as well as looking toward the future. Thank you to all the community volunteers who helped make the float come to life. All PRS Patriots were invited to ride the float, walk or ride their bicycles in the parade.

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ACA Senior Selected For All-Star Sports Week

Alabama Christian Academy upcoming senior Schylur Edwards has been selected as a member of the Alabama High School All-Star Sports Week softball team. Edwards leads her team in most homeruns, RBIs, and highest on base percentage. She has also committed to Alabama State University for softball.

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MEA’s Chapman Dean Signs Baseball Scholarship Macon East Academy senior Chapman Dean has committed to play baseball at Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in Andalusia next season. A three-year starter for the Knights’ program, Dean earned 18 career wins on the mound and three saves. He finished his senior season with a 1.96 ERA and had 72 strikeouts. Throwing a perfect game in the first round of the state playoffs, Dean advanced his team to round two. At the plate, he led the team with a batting average of .420 and five homeruns, finishing his career at MEA with 11 home runs. As a junior, he was a second team All-State selection and first team All-Metro.

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Montgomery County Schools

Trinity Cheerleading Squads Receive Awards at UCA Cheer Camp in Auburn

All three Trinity cheerleading squads attended the UCA Cheer Camp in Auburn earlier this summer. Trinity School was well represented at the 2016 UCA Cheer Camp, winning in the “Jump-Off” division and all three squads boasting “All-Americans.”

The Trinity Cheer Program had ten girls make All-American, including all six juniors that tried out on the Varsity squad--Wallace Bryan, Ensley Craven, Emmalyne Phillips, Lizzie Sanders, Sydney Kate Welch, and Caroline Wood. Ellie Slawson and Miller Williams were chosen from the the Junior Varsity (JV) team, while Anna Worth Craven and Caroline Hemmings were selected from the Middle School team.

Anna Worth Craven won the Jump-Off Competition for the Middle School division.

While at camp, girls are pinned who exemplify leadership, spirit, commitment, kindness and motivation as examples of why America needs cheerleaders. Three were chosen from Trinity’s varsity squad--McKenzie Parker, Liz Portis, and Lizzie Sanders.

The Trinity Cheer program received the prestigious “Leadership Award” for the second consecutive year. This award is one of the most coveted awards at UCA Cheer Camp and is voted on by all the cheerleaders attending camp. Girls vote on the cheer program they would like to be a part of if they couldn’t be on their own squads, as well as the cheer program that exemplifies a positive attitude.

Several other accolades were awarded, including JV receiving first place all-around and first place for cheer. Both Varsity and JV squads received second place for Xtreme, while both also received gold for Home Pom. Varsity received gold for fight song and Xtreme, while Middle School received third for sideline and fourth for cheer. During evaluations, Varisty received superior for sideline and cheer. All three squads were also awarded a spirit stick each day, and the Trinity Cheer Program won the “banana” the second night of camp.

This was the first year Trinity had a mascot attend UCA camp. “Wild Thing” participated in all mascot events and received an overall Superior award! Congratulations to “Wild Thing” and these outstanding Trinity cheerleading teams!

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MEA Players Named To AISA All-State

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Carver High School Cheerleaders Win at Troy Cheer Camp

The George Washington Carver High School Cheerleaders 2016-2017 attended the UCA Camp at Troy University in July 6-9. The girls came home with three first-place trophies in Cheer, Chants, Game Day and Best Over All.

Five Macon East Academy Lady Knights softball players were named to the Alabama Independent School Association All-State 1st team (Paxton Searle, Jesi Garrett, Kaylee Pullin, Sommer Sears and Madisyn Kennedy). Dawn Johnson received all-state honorable mention.

Searle was also honored as the AISA Player of the Year and Pitcher of the Year and was named to the Super All-State team as one of the Top 10 high school players in the state. She will attend Troy on an academic scholarship and has plans to walk on the school’s softball team. Playing primarily pitcher, Searle helped lead Macon East to a fifth straight AISA championship. She was 42-6 with a 2.24 ERA, including 17 shutouts this season, plus hit .489 with 15 home runs and 78 RBIs. Searle is just the fourth AISA player in history to make the softball Super All-State list.

Chapman Dean and Seth Meadows were named to the AISA All-State Baseball 1st team.

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Montgomery County Schools

Pike Road Patriot Fund Donates to PRS Football

The Pike Road Patriot Fund, an independent booster club that provides financial assistance for the athletics and arts programs of the Pike Road School, donated $5,000 to the Pike Road School football program. The group presented the check to PRS staff and football players during Summerfest in July. Patrick Browning, PRS football coach, thanked the Patriot Fund for the donation.

Forest Avenue Academic Magnet Hosts Annual Open Houses

Forest Avenue Academic Magnet Elementary School will kick off the 2016-17 school year by hosting its annual Open House for students and parents. Dates for each grade level are as follows: Wednesday, August 3: 1st grade at 5 p.m. and 4th grade at 6 p.m.; Thursday, August 4: kindergarten at 5 p.m. and 5th grade at 6 p.m.; and Monday, August 8: 2nd grade at 5 p.m. and 3rd grade at 6 p.m.

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High School Campus, 9-12 grade 5350 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL 36116 334-272-7220

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MEA Seniors Attend Lions Leadership Forum

Macon East Academy seniors Channy Blackwell, Will Dowe, Sami Nesbitt and Mason Wray represented Macon East Academy this summer as delegates at the 7th Annual Alabama Lions High School Leadership Forum. The ALHSLF is a three-day leadership forum for high school students from Alabama and is held at Troy University. Included in the program are keynote speakers on leadership topics, hands-on leadership exercises led by college leadership students, physical challenges at Camp Butter & Egg, team-building skills at the Dogpatch Olympics, group skits, fun, fellowship and great food.

Mary Kaylin Veach and Liz Dowe Filmore, both Macon East alumni, served as group leaders, as well as JV Baseball Coach Chase Barber. The delegates and group leaders are all encouraged to return to their communities as advocates for positive change and service through understanding and action based on effective, ethical and compassionate leadership.

From left are delegates Mason Wray and Sami Nesbitt, group leaders Mary Kaylin Veach, Liz Dowe Filmore and Chase Barber, and delegates Will Dowe and Channy Blackwell.

ACA Students Selected To All-Metro Sports Teams

The following Alabama Christian Academy students were selected for All-Metro teams: Track: Micah Britton, Jonathon Urquhardt and Josh Felix; Soccer: JJ Williams (Player of the Year), Walker Davis, Drew Schlemmer and Coleman Harrison; Soccer Honorable Mention: Jaeyeoup Lee and Josh Felix; All Metro Soccer Coach of the Year: Diego DeSilva; Baseball: Jackson Britton, Grayson Blackwell and M.J. Galloway; Baseball Honorable Mention: Nick Dodson; Softball: Allie Beilstein, Haley Pittman, Laura Nickolson and Schylur Edwards; and Softball Honorable Mention: Shelbie Horne, Kaytlyn Podein and Lacey Spear.

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Montgomery County Schools

Trinity’s Jackson Byrd Signs with Berry College to Play Baseball

Jackson Byrd recently signed a baseball scholarship with Berry College on Tuesday, July 12. Jackson was part of the 2013 and 2015 State Baseball Championship Teams. He finished his senior year with a 1.44 ERA, 15 wins, 102 total strike-outs, and .875 fielding percentage. In addition, he was named to both the All Metro 1A-4A baseball team and football team. Jackson graduated with a 4.0 and was a member of the National Honor Society, Key Club and the Spanish Club.

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Alabama Christian Academy Students Travels to Europe

Students and faculty from Alabama Christian Academy traveled to Europe this summer. ACA’s Spiritual Life Director Howard Todd led the group around the beautiful sights and scenery of many countries. Pictured are a few students in the mountains of Austria.

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Trinity Robotics Camp and Coding Academy Are Summer Hits!

A Robotics Camp designed especially for lower school students was held June 1-3.

Students learned that they can build and create according to specific instructions (like Thomas Edison) or build and create with their own ideas in mind (like Albert Einstein). After building their Knex robots the students enjoyed “Battle Bots” competitions. The camp culminated in students creating Lego NXT Robots and then learning how to code the robot to autonomously navigate an obstacle course. Robotics Camp participants were Ryan Basile, Jack Mracek, Gaines Daniel Ridge Newell, Emma Rose Meldrum, Carson Snyder, Luke Miller, and Lucas Snyder A Coding Academy was also recently held on Jun 6-9. This camp was designed for students wishing to learn computer programming. Campers worked autonomously learning to code through the Tynker platform. By the end of the camp, students had built their own games utilizing a Trinity theme. Campers were rising 6th grader John Thomas; rising 7th grader Parker Ensminger; rising 8th graders Samuel Portis and Francie Weissend; and rising 9th graders Caidra Flournoy, Noelle Kim, Kyle Kyser, Graham Meldrum, and Georgia Mracek.

Mrs. Sandi Faulkner, Trinity’s Technology Integrationist was the director for both camps, and assisted by Forrest Faulkner, an iD Tech alumni, a nationally recognized technology camp.

ACA Students Take Mission Trip to Mexico

Several Alabama Christian Academy high school students went to Ensenada, Mexico, on a mission trip with Vaughn Park Church in June.

They helped with medical and food relief and helped build a house for a single mom who has a special needs child. They had a lot of fun helping Faulkner University’s soccer coach, Kyle Beard, with soccer camp for the local children. Coach Beard and his family also joined the Vaughn Park mission team. His wife, Luz, is the art teacher at ACA. “It is amazing and humbling to see these people who have so little but have great faith in God, that He will pull them through whatever storm they go through,” said Savannah-Rose Fonville, who went for the first time.

“Instead of going there to share the faith, they taught me to rely more on God than myself and not to take simple things for granted anymore. I can’t wait to go back next year.”

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Montgomery Academy Students Participate in Philanthropy 101 Over the past three weeks, 10 rising seniors at Montgomery Academy participated in the Philanthropy 101 course, which provides an in-depth study of charitable and nonprofit organizations in our community. Led by faculty members Denise Wentworth and Mandy Poundstone, the class is made possible through funding from The W. James Samford, Jr. Foundation, Mr. and Mrs. Temple Millsap and Dr. and Mrs. Stephen Davidson. Students selected to take part in the course were: Hannon Bagwell, Emily Ernest, John Forrest, Maddie Hughes, Jacob Johns, Anna Kate Lindsey, Ellen Park, Lindsey Sharman, MaryRen Stevenson and Dison Williams.

The course teaches students about nonprofit organizations by hosting representatives from local groups who give detailed presentations on the day-to-day workings of their organization and how their organization helps those in need.

Students also spend a portion of each day “in the field,” helping the local organizations directly by volunteering their time. Through this, students are able to learn about their ability to make a difference and the variety of ways to give.

While the students earn no school credit for completing the course, each is given a stipend, a part of which must be donated to a single nonprofit 501(c)3 organization of his or her choice. A luncheon is held where students give presentations about the mission and financial structure of their chosen charity and representatives from each organization are in attendance to accept the donations.

During the class this summer, students heard presentations about, visited and/or did community service with many local non-profit organizations including Brantwood Children’s Home, Camp ASCCA, Camp Seale Harris,

Central Alabama Community Foundation, Child Protect, Children’s Hospital of Alabama, Common Ground Montgomery, Dream Court, Family Sunshine Center, Father Purcell Children’s Center, Habitat for Humanity, One Church Mission, Mary Ellen’s Hearth, MACOA, Montgomery Area Food Bank, Respite Care Ministry (First UMC), Salvation Army, Service Dogs of Alabama, Stella’s Voice and many more.

In addition to reading The Ultimate Gift and A Generous Life: W. James Samford, Jr. to prepare for the course, students also read and discussed selected essays about philanthropy, the non-profit sector, and giving. The Philanthropy 101 teachers, as well as Burton Ward of the Montgomery Area Community Foundation, presented information on 501(c)(3) designation, evaluation of a nonprofit’s 990 reports and grant writing. Participants researched not-for-profits using guidestar.com and charitynavigator.com and Brad Armagost of ServisFirst Bank and Young Bankers Leadership Initiative presented a session on financial literacy.

Seated from left are Emily Ernest, Anna Kate Lindsey, Ms. Lucinda Cannon with The W. James Samford, Jr. Foundation, Ellen Park and Lindsey Sharman. Standing from are MaryRen Stevenson, Hannon Bagwell, Jacob Johns, Dison Williams and John Forrest. Not pictured: Maddie Hughes.

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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 memory making moments; and teachers, support staff, and administrators hustle to make our schools a welcoming sight for a new wave of students! What an exciting time of year!

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 1st with Teacher Institute and continue through August

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

9th, participating in professional development at the department, grade, school, and district levels. Students will start the 2016-2017 school year on Wednesday, August 10th.

As this school year begins, we are reminded of the dedication of the teachers and students to excel. Our students are outstanding and continually amaze me with their accomplishments. I am thrilled to announce that Marbury Middle School student, Michael McCaulley, placed second in the math competition at the National Beta Club Convention in June! Second place nationally! That is an outstanding achievement. Congratulations, Michael McCaulley! You represented your school, county, and state well and made us all proud!

Adapting to change and accepting new challenges are two tenets we strive to instill in our students. Congratulations to the following administrators who will be doing just that! New principal assignments

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for the 2016-2017 school year include: Susan Butts, leading the Eagles at Autaugaville School; Christen Harry, spearheading Pine Level Elementary School; and Tammy Starnes, guiding Prattville Primary School. The new assistant principals are Martin Jackson at Prattville Junior High, Jeff Stockman at Pine Level Elementary, and Lyman Woodfin at Prattville High. In Autauga County, we are blessed to have amazing teachers, in my opinion, the best in the state of Alabama. When you have excellent teachers, you need great administrators to lead them. We have that in our new and existing administrators, and I am excited about working with them this year as we endeavor to provide the best education for the students of Autauga County.

Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 16 years of experience in the education field as well as 25 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

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Autauga County Schools

PCA’s Peri Greene Chosen as Girls State Representative

Peri Greene, rising Prattville Christian Academy senior, was selected to represent her school at the 2016 session of the American Legion Auxiliary Alabama Girls State. Girls State is a premier youth leadership program which offers a one-of-a-kind experience to some of the best and brightest young women in the State of Alabama.

During her time at Girls State, Greene became a citizen of an imaginary state, taking part in the political life through campaigning for and electing officials. She learned how the government functions by participating in caucuses and the election process. Many speakers and elected officials shared their valuable insights with the young ladies, including ensuring that all the attendees were aware of their civic responsibilities.

Greene successfully campaigned for and was elected to the office of Lieutenant Governor, the second highest office in their imaginary state. During her campaign, she was able to exercise her public speaking skills as she made several speeches to an audience of several hundred people.

“This opportunity gave me incredible insight on real issues regardless of the political affiliation,” said Greene. “It was fun to experience everyone’s passion for their cities, political parties and elected offices. I most enjoyed meeting different people from across the state that I now call friends.”

Greene was selected by a committee of faculty members who recommend rising seniors that best exemplify the qualities of a Girls State representative. “Peri is a very active and engaged student,” said Pat Dean, PCA guidance counselor. “She is a help and encouragement to her fellow students and she truly reflects the love of Christ in everything that she does.”

Greene is shown with Alabama’s Lieutenant Governor Kay Ivey.

Kiddie College School Graduates Students

Two classes of K-4 students recently graduated from Kiddie College School in Prattville.

Send Your school news each month to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com.

PHS Student Participates in Tuskegee Summer Program Bethany Granger, a rising junior at Prattville High School, got an opportunity to see if veterinary medicine was a possible future career choice for her during the summer. The Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine (TUCVM) helped several rising 11th- and 12thgrade students get first-hand knowledge as to what it takes to become a veterinarian during its 2016 summer veterinary medicine program.

The Veterinary Science Training, Education, and Preparation Institutes (VET-STEP II) introduced the veterinary profession to these students during the week of June 12-18.

Rising 9th- and Montgomery Parents I August 2016

10th-graders got the opportunity to be exposed to the veterinary profession in VET-STEP I during the week of July 17-23.

Activities included classroom instruction, guest lectures, demonstrations, emergency case studies and numerous hands-on activities to familiarize minority youth with career options and career opportunities in the veterinary medical profession. Students also participated in a veterinary profession field trip to the Montgomery Zoo to learn about exotic animals. Participants visited two historical sites while in Montgomery, the Rosa Parks Museum and Civil Rights Memorial Museum.

VET-STEP is funded through the Division of Public Health and Interdisciplinary Education, Bureau of Health Professions and Health Resources and Services Administration in the Department of Health and Human Services.

VET-STEP I and II include honor students representing the states of Alabama, Florida, Mississippi and Georgia. Granger was selected as one of three students in Alabama to participate.

To learn more about the Tuskegee University College of Veterinary Medicine and the VET-STEP summer program, visit www. onemedicine.tuskegee.edu and www.tuskegee.edu.

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Gospel Sing Capital City

First Baptist Church Sunday, August 28 6:15 pm | Main Sanctuary 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.

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As we seek to educate and shape the minds of our future, we are challenging every single teacher, administrator, and staff member to be innovative in their thinking and approach and develop new and better ways to achieve our goals.

My challenge to our teachers this year is to re-conceptualize the very idea of a school by creating inspiring learning environments, utilizing unexpected places, and employing revolutionary teaching methods. We are striving to be innovative in every aspect of our operations, from the classroom to administration.

Recently, we implemented formative assessments to review student’s

test scores and develop individualized learning plans to help them reach higher goals. We also trained all fourth grade teachers in computer coding techniques so that students can be exposed to higher-order thinking as well as course content before reaching high school, paving the way for them to pursue study in computer programming and offering AP Classes in Computer Science.

This summer, many of our teachers began implementing “flexible seating” into their classrooms. Allowing students to choose between traditional desks, tables, comfortable chairs, standing desks, etc., creates a relaxed learning environment and increases engagement in learning. We are excited that our teachers are taking the lead in adopting this education trend early, and we are confident it will have a positive impact on our students.

Many of our teachers participated in AMSTI Training (Alabama Math, Science, & Technology Initiative) over the sum-

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mer, which will help them to implement project-based learning in their classrooms. We believe that creating problem solvers now better equips our students to be problem solvers later. These innovative teaching methods bring studentfacilitated discussion to the forefront and help students develop problem-solving strategies they can use throughout their lives.

Our classrooms this school year will look and feel differently than in previous school years as we strive to develop a culture of innovation that permeates the entire district. We are off to a great start, and look forward to celebrating the successes produced by the many new endeavors undertaken by our staff members throughout Elmore County Public Schools!

Andre` L. Harrison has served as a teacher, acting principal, Director of Curriculum and Instruction, Assistant Superintendent of Instructional Services and Human Resources, Assistant Superintendent of Education, and the Deputy Superintendent of Education/Chief of Staff. He is married to Monica, and they have a daughter, Aundrea, who attends the UAB. They reside in Millbrook, Alabama.

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Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. David Stanley • Dr. Davis Denney • Dr. Rob Owen Montgomery Parents I August 2016

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Elmore County Schools

Wetumpka Junior Serves As Ambassador in Europe

County Band Students Attend Band Camps

Middle and high school band students across Elmore County spent the week of July 18 in band camp. Middle school students spent the week becoming better acquainted with their instruments while high school students began working on their new marching routines for football season. Shown are new band students at Wetumpka Middle School.

This summer, rising Wetumpka High School junior Dalton White took a 19-day trip to Europe with People to People International of the Dwight D. Eisenhower foundation. The group served as youth ambassadors representing the United States and visited five different countries including France, Switzerland, Austria, Italy and Vatican City.

White was able to view famous and historic landmarks such as: Chateau de Versailles, the French Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Swiss Alps, the birthplace of Mozart, the Mauthausen Concentration Camp, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Friesach Castle, the Canal Grande in Venice, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the Accademia Gallery (home of the Statue of David), the Florence American Cemetery and Memorial, the Sistine Chapel, the Christian Catacombs in Rome, along with the Colosseum, and the Roman Forum.

One of the highlights of White’s trip was his home stay with an Austrian family for a few days, where he also attended an Austrian school. Another favorite was when the group stayed overnight in a medieval castle that is currently under construction using only tools that were available in the 15 century. Guided tours were given in nearly every city the group visited.

The tours gave White and the group insight into the different cultures present in Europe.

White is shown, front row second from left, with his Austrian home stay family.

N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2016 2011

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Your Child’s First Teacher Every parent wants his child to be successful and do well in school. You are your child’s first and most important teacher.

Children that come to school without literacy experiences are at an increased risk of reading difficulties. Parents play an important role in promoting literacy and preventing reading difficulties.

Reading aloud with your child is the single most important activity that you can do to prepare your child to learn to read.

Read to your child at an early age and read often. When you read to your child, you are promoting many reading readiness skills, including an understanding of the written language and print awareness. You also foster a lifelong love and interest of reading.

Cuddle up and make story time an enjoyable, warm and loving time. Reading to your child is a great bedtime routine. It is likely to become a favorite part of your child’s day and maybe yours too.

As you read, talk about interesting words in the story. This will help your child build a strong vocabulary, which is an important skill for developing reading comprehension skills.

Read to your child with expression and different voices.

Let your child pick out books for you to read. It is okay if your child wants you to

read the same book over and over. If you do not have books in your home, visit your local library and check out books weekly.

As you read to your child, ask questions and discuss what is happening in the book.

Point to the words as you read. Discuss how we read and write from left to right and top to bottom.

Sing and read nursery rhymes with your child. Point out the rhyming words and make up your own silly rhyming words.

Have fun with words and their sounds.

Challenge your child to see how many words he can name with the same beginning sound. Example: ball, bat, baby, bug...

Help your child learn to write his name using upper and lowercase letters. Writing may begin with scribbling, but will progress with practice.

When your child enters kindergarten, he/she should already be able to name and recognize some letters of the alphabet and identify their sounds. Consider investing in magnetic letters or alphabet flashcards for practice. Ask your child to look for a given letter on cereal boxes, in magazines, or driving down the road on billboards. You can find free apps that provide practice with alphabet and sound recognition.

You can incorporate math skills into daily routines at home. Ask your child to

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count out things, such as forks, napkins, plates, cookies... Play board games with your child which require him to move a game piece a given number of spaces.

Help your child name and identify shapes in your home and his environment.

Investing quality time with your child will create lifelong memories. You will never look back and regret the time you spend with your child.

This article was written by Redland Elementary kindergarten teachers Stacey Turner and Paige Pyles.

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Elmore County Schools

Elmore County Student Attends Youth Leadership Conference

Emma Hardin of Wetumpka was among the high school students from 30 Alabama counties who strengthened their understanding of agriculture and potential agricultural careers at the first Aspire Youth Leadership Conference at the 4-H Center in Columbiana July 12-14.

The Alabama Farmers Federation and other sponsors led the program to develop leadership skills in youth. Aspire was designed to teach students awareness of their strengths through habit-based learning sessions. Workshops were led by conference sponsors, including the Federation, Alabama Council of Cooperatives, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association, 4-H, FFA and Alabama Poultry & Egg Association.

Attendees were between 15 and 17 years old and were selected by a panel of judges from sponsoring organizations.

Victory Baptist Begins Year with New Leadership

Victory Baptist School will kick off its 44th year with John Lopez as its new administrator. Lopez has served as a Christian school teacher, youth/assistant pastor and administrator over the past 11 years. Both he and his wife, Cindy, are graduates of Pensacola Christian College and they have five children.

In addition, Robert Joe “Joey” Byrd was recently called as Victory Baptist Church’s new senior pastor when Steve Sanders stepped down to pastor emeritus status. Byrd has lived in the Millbrook area for 42 years, and has been an attendee/member of Victory Baptist Church during that time. He is a graduate of Victory Baptist School and holds a mechanical engineering degree from Auburn University, as well as a Bible degree from Open Bible College.

Byrd worked for Steris as a research and development manager before he became the assistant/youth pastor at Victory in 2000. He is married to Julie (Coleman) Byrd and they have two sons, Will and Nathan.

“Strong leadership of the church ministries has long been a strength of our church,” said Harold Boullion, Victory Baptist deacon board chairman. “With the addition of Joey Byrd as senior Pastor and John Lopez as the new administrator of the school, with God’s guiding hand, our leadership will be on a path to continue our long-time commitment to serving Millbrook and the surrounding communities.”

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Montgom

ParentingToday’sTeens

by Mark Gregston

Signs of Suicide in Your Teen Watch any episode of a classic family TV shows from the 50s—Leave it to Beaver, Father Knows Best, or The Donna Reed show—and there’s one thing you will not hear teens Wally, Bud, Jeff or Mary talking about: suicide.

Fast forward to 2016 and today, most teens not only talk about suicide—they can tell you exactly how they would do it. Thanks to Google, they have plenty of tutorials on how to take their own life. There are even websites that put forth a suicide or “self-euthanasia” worldview. One site even encourages people to “do their part”—complete with instructions—in reducing the world’s population.

It gets even more disturbing. Teens that are considering suicide are often encouraged by their peers to go beyond the contemplation stage and “just do it.” And “doing it” they are. Suicide is now the third leading cause of death in the 15- to 24-year-old age range. It’s more common among boys. Male adolescents commit suicide five times more than females, though females are three times more likely to attempt suicide.

Gone Too Soon

For Gerard Long, the president of the ministry, Alpha USA, this statistic became highly personal when his 17-year-old son, Alex, hanged himself on a beach after being given one dose of a recreational drug. Like most parents of teen suicide victims, Gerard and his wife, Jeannie, didn’t see it coming. Up until a week before his death, Alex had been a good student, an outstanding athlete and a seemingly happy teen. But it’s what his parents didn’t know that would come back to haunt them. He shared his story when I interviewed him sometime after.

The day that Alex killed himself, he was home all day with his mom, who stayed close by his side—monitoring him. The drug his “friend” had given him had a particular insidious effect on their sensitive son. His rational thinking was skewed and his emotional equilibrium was clearly off kilter. After Alex had confessed to his parents about his foolish mistake, they kept a watchful eye on him. On Gerard’s part, he had prayed with his son for an hour that morning before he left for work. That night, when his father returned home, Alex greeted his father warmly, Montgomery Parents I August 2016

even quoting Psalm 103:1-5—a psalm he had memorized.

So to his parents, Alex seemed to be on the mend. Still, when Alex asked his mom if he could “go for a ride in the car” she said, “No.” Given his still questionable mental state, Jeannie didn’t think it was safe. But Alex snuck out anyway. When the police finally found his body hours later, Jeannie became hysterical with grief. It took her two years to stop blaming God, and her husband, for her son’s death.

When I asked Gerard during that first interview, what he would have done differently to try and prevent what happened, he said: “I would learn as much as could about signs of suicide and I would be more direct and decisive when I saw some of those troubling signs.”

In Gerard Long’s case, his son didn’t suffer from depression—he just happened to have had a very bad reaction to a street drug. One dose was enough to send him into a depressed, suicidal state. For most teens, it takes more than one dose of a drug to send them into a downward spiral. It’s usually a cumulative effect.

Studies show that at least 90 percent of teens who kill themselves have some type of chronic mental health problem, such as depression, anxiety, drug or alcohol abuse, or a behavior problem.

So, what are the signs of possible suicide in your teen and what can be done about it? It’s a good question—and an important one. Not taking the time to study these signs could be deadly. As Gerard says, “Don’t ever think it can’t happen to you… it can happen to anyone.”

Danger Signs In Your Teen

• Withdrawal from social activities, as well as friends and family.

• Giving possessions away • Increased sadness and hopelessness • Obsession about death, including talking about it. For example, after someone dies, a teen might talk about who he would like to come to his memorial service if he ever passed away.

He may also watch films or listen to music that is centered on death.

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• Engagement in risk-taking behaviors— what might be called a “death wish” • Bullied at school • Changes in eating or sleeping behavior—especially eating less and sleeping more • A lack of concentration—unable to focus If your child is manifesting several of these signs, or he begins to actually threaten suicide, then it’s time to ramp up the prevention strategy.

He will need to be constantly monitored. Hide all prescription drugs and eliminate any access to guns. Take all suicide threats seriously—it’s your teen’s cry for help and you need to heed it. At Heartlight, if a teen says, “I want to die” then we take him to the hospital for observation.

If your teen is chronically depressed and it’s serious enough where it’s causing suicidal behaviors to manifest, then consider a shortterm solution, like anti-depressants. Sometimes this regime is necessary if there’s a chemical imbalance. Still, it’s a decision that you need to make wisely and prayerfully as some antidepressants can be worse than the condition they’re supposed to cure. Do the research. Even “safe” drugs can be toxic. It all depends on the particular chemical make up of your teen.

Whatever extra measures you need to take to keep your teen safe, be encouraged— teen depression is not a life sentence. According to a 2014 study by the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, around half of teens who experience brief episodes of depression or anxiety do not go on to have a mental illness in adulthood.

You can increase those odds with good parenting, including lots of love, prayer and vigilance. As Gerard Long said, “Be direct and decisive.” This means knowing what your teen is doing at all times. Don’t underestimate the power of peer pressure (“bad company corrupts good character”) or other external influential factors like the Internet and TV. Do these things, and chances are good that you’ll be helping your teen over a temporary “hump” in his volatile teenage life—after which you can both breathe a huge collective sigh of relief.

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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“Just so you know, mom I’ve got a test on Friday I’m gonna fail.” My sixth-grader is barely through the front door when this escapes his lips. Because he is an excellent student, my head is spinning.

Smiling, I remark “What do you mean? You’ve got three more days to study!” But he is already grinding his teeth, scowling as he announces “I can’t do it.”

Still calm, I attempt to appeal to his reason with no luck. Within seconds, I am shouting “Fine. YOU’RE GROUNDED FOR A MONTH!” Sound familiar?

Organizing the Disorganized Child (2009) by Martin Kutscher and Marcella Moran provides a helpful guide for explaining in plain English how disorganized habits interfere with school success and create chaos within the home. The following issues addressed in the book were ones in particular I believe are relevant to helping your child develop healthier habits and achieve more.

Understand Why They Procrastinate According to Kutscher and Mora, kids often adopt an “I’ll get to it later” habit and put off school projects or studying for several reasons. Sometimes they simply have a poor concept of time.

Other kids have poor memory for ways procrastinating has failed them in the past. Still others are too easily sidetracked and unable to resist temptation to do something more appealing.

The authors remind parents that most often these issues are “the fault of the undeveloped brain, not the child” and urge parents not to yell or punish. Instead, stay positive, offer support, and help them break larger tasks down into chunks. They offer these tips to get organized: 1. Write down assignments in a planner.

Disorganization and Success

2. Ask the teacher or a buddy to double-check their planner to be sure it is correct.

What my son was probably communicating after school that day was “I feel distressed, Mom. I have no idea how to get organized for this test.” Unfortunately, like so many parents, I let myself grow overly emotional and failed to truly listen to his fear and concern.

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

3. Place all materials touched that day into a take-home section of a folder.

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4. Mark a calendar with completion dates for step in preparing for a project.

6. HOW CAN I SUMMARIZE THIS IN AS FEW WORDS AS POSSIBLE?

3. Read directions carefully. Underline keywords of the directions.

5. Put completed work in a Take to School section of a folder.

7. HOW CAN I VISUALIZE THIS IN PICTURES OR FLOWCHARTS?

4. Answer easy questions first.

6. Weekly purge the backpack and folders of papers no longer needed.

8. WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO LEARN ABOUT THIS?

Teach Them to Question Everything

9. WHAT QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS ARE LIKELY TO BE ON THE TEST?

The authors of this guide believe in addition to good note-taking and study skills, the key to your child’s education is questioning everything. Teaching your child to ask the following questions will enhance your child’s learning: 1. WHAT DID THE TEACHER JUST SAY? 2. WHAT DID I JUST READ? 3. WHY IS THAT SO? IS IT TRUE?

10. WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT TO ME AND THE REST OF THE WORLD? 11. SO WHAT?

Test Taking Smarts All students can use a refresher for how to best manage time on a test, and the following strategies are recommended

by Kutscher and Moran:

4. WHERE HAVE I SEEN INFORMATION LIKE THIS BEFORE?

1. Turn over the sheet and jot down keywords, dates, formulas, and phrases you memorized.

5. HOW IS THIS DIFFERENT FROM MATERIAL I’VE PREVIOUSLY LEARNED?

2. Look over the entire test quickly to anticipate what’s coming up.

5. Place a question mark next to answers you guess on.

6. Sometimes the answer to one question is contained somewhere on the test.

7. Sometimes you may be able to get help or clues from the teacher i.e. “Can you rephrase the question.”

8. If you have leftover time, check your answers and scan for careless mistakes.

Only change an answer when you’re certain the new response is correct.

9. If unsure, guess.

In terms of helping your child become a more organized student, the authors remind parents, “We can’t completely fix everything overnight. We can, though, expect continued progress over a mountainous terrain toward an ultimately successful future.” mp Michele Ranard has a husband, two children, and a master’s in counseling.

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A Page in a Book Books for When the Mood Strikes When a bad mood arrives on the scene, it can be contagious to everyone within its reach, and certainly has its own ill effects on patient zero. As adults, we have a lifetime to cultivate various coping strategies and ways to minimize the effect our grumpy moments have on those around us. But kids are still at the front end of experiencing bad moods and struggling with management of same.

Learning ways to keep the peace and resolve issues that bring them down is an important part of growing up. The following titles share lighthearted insights that can help kids work around those times that morph our moods for the worse.

Field Guide to the Grumpasaurus

by Edward Hemingway (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) The unexpected appearance of the Grumpasaurus can be startling. It’s arrival can be triggered by something as simple as a broken toy, but once Badmoodicus Grumpasouricus is on the scene, a savvy observer can spot tell-tale signs that will help them survive in its presence. Sulking may be an early warning sign of pending outbursts (and the repercussions that may follow). Caution is advised when approaching these creatures until they can be calmed. Using this charming field guide, young readers can explore the evolution of a bad mood and recognize the tools that may help send an unwelcome Grumpasaurus on its way.

Meanie Head

by Bruce Eric Kaplan (Simon & Schuster) When Eve and Henry both reach for the same toy, at the same time, their simple disagreement quickly escalates into a sibling conflict of epic proportions. Anger triggers shouting, followed by a shove. The fighting expands and the coveted toy is thrown, breaking their mother’s lamp. Their darkening moods feed the feud which spreads out of their home, into the neighborhood, and beyond. Fires, bulldozers and opposing football teams enter the fray as a brother and sister’s bad moods feed a growing cataclysm. Only cool heads can reel in the anger before it goes too far. Uncomplicated illustrations tame the whimsically terrifying effects that can result when a Meanie Head gets the better of us.

How Do Dinosaurs Stay Friends?

by Jane Yolen and Mark Teague (Scholastic) The larger-than-life young dinosaurs from Yolen and Teague are perfect partners to highlight common conflict behaviors that kids struggle with, and learn to overcome. When these dinosaurs get moody with their friends, the following scowls, shoves and tantrums are comically rendered in super-sized living color. And after the dust settles, solutions and redemption for dinosaur friends are likewise illustrated in adorably helpful ways. By nudging kids to recognize behaviors that affect themselves and others in a negative way, this title gently serves up solutions that can turn bad mood moments around and keep friends, friendly!

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Tips for Connected Caregivers Sooner or later, parents leave their kids with other people. And those other people— teenagers, family members, daycare providers and nannies— have cellphones.

It’s no secret that cellphones are distracting—and irresistible. One survey by researchers at the University of Washington found that, among caregivers surveyed on a playground, 28% felt it was perfectly okay to engage in cellphone activities like checking e-mail or reading while supervising children. Another 24% chose to curtail phone use when they were responsible for kids. The largest group-44%--thought they should restrict phone use but found that they often couldn’t resist the temptations of the tiny screen.

All of this means parents need to think carefully about what they expect from caregivers—and then have a frank conversation about how and when it’s okay to use a cellphone. Rules may vary depending upon the experience and maturity of the caregiver, but here are some things to consider: Clarify Expectations. The first responsibility of a caregiver is to keep kids safe, and it’s all too easy to lose track of what kids are doing if you’re focused on a phone. Using a cellphone should be totally off-limits during any kind of risky activity—driving, swimming, bathing, bicycling, walking on the street or, for that matter, climbing on playground equipment. If you expect the caregiver to be interacting with your child—playing, talking, having fun—it makes sense to adopt the policy of most employers: no personal cellphone use during business hours. Be Montgomery Parents I August 2016

specific about what’s excluded--social media in all forms, calls and texts that aren’t related to caregiving, watching videos or listening to music with headphones.

What About Phone Fun? Smart phones are very entertaining. Depending on the age of your child and the good judgment of the caregiver, it may be perfectly acceptable for them to bond over an amusing game or a funny video. Just be sure your caregiver knows what you consider acceptable. Is it okay for your child to watch YouTube? Which apps meet your standards? What kind of music is acceptable in your house? If you have any doubts about your caregiver’s judgment, point them toward a site like commonsense. org that identifies apps, games and other media that are fun and ageappropriate.

Sharing is Not Caring. Your kids are cute. Nobody knows that better than you.

A cellphone makes it way too easy to take and share adorable photos and videos.

Decide in advance about what is permitted.

Even if you allow your caregiver to snap a picture or record something fun, make it clear that nothing gets posted without your permission. Also, ask your caregiver not to post status updates while working for you.

There’s no reason for others to know that you’re not at home.

Anticipate Emergencies. A cellphone can be a lifesaver in an emergency, so encourage your caregiver to keep one close and functional. Program 911 and other emergency numbers into the phone and talk about what constitutes a crisis. How should your caregiver handle an injury or illness, a storm or power failure, an intruder? (The Red Cross has a very thorough guide for caregivers at tinyurl.com/nsvtdux.) Remember that the camera on the phone can be invaluable if the caregiver has a question about the seriousness of something like an insect bite or a scraped knee.

Appropriate contact. Ask your caregiver to add your contact information to his or 46

her phone rather than leaving it on a piece of paper that might get misplaced. Be specific about the circumstances under which they should contact you. If a caregiver is new or inexperienced, you may encourage questions about basics like house rules. Let your sitter know whether you prefer a call or text message. And be clear about times when you will be unavailable because you’ll be driving or in a meeting. Provide a back-up number for a spouse, a neighbor or a close friend.

Kiddy Calls. Talk with your caregiver about whether and when it’s okay for your child to call you. Some children settle down for bed more easily if they get a quick good night from a parent. For others, knowing that Mom is a video chat away makes it harder to feel comfortable with a caregiver. If your child is old enough to have a phone of his or her own, explain that the caregiver is in charge, so you won’t be fielding questions about routine problems or complaints about siblings.

Be Realistic. Nobody, including you, can be attentive every single minute. Talk to your caregiver about acceptable breaks. Is it okay to check in on the cellphone when a child goes down for a nap or when the kids watch a favorite show in the afternoon? Be respectful of your caregiver’s needs. Maybe he or she needs to touch base with their own children or a parent.

Don’t Be a Distraction. Yes, it’s tempting to check in on your kids, especially if you don’t leave them very often. Just remember that your caregiver can’t focus on your kids if they’re constantly being interrupted by calls and texts from you. Limit yourself to preset check-in times or if you have to make a change in plans.

Finally, don’t be afraid to use social media to do a little screening. A quick search for your sitter’s name may alert you to other situations you’ll want to anticipate or other rules you’ll want to institute. Just be sure your cellphone policies are crystal clear before you walk out the door.

Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved

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School, sports, after-school activities, birthday parties, and social commitments--all of these things compete for your child’s energy and attention on a daily basis. And now that kids are hopping on social media at increasingly younger ages, the pressure to participate can become fierce early on. All those images of friends playing sports, hanging out at a pool party, or posing together in a gleeful gaggle may cause your child to feel like his schedule doesn’t quite measure up.

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But no matter whose idea it is to keep kids busy and social 24-7, it’s ultimately every parent’s job to make sure kids don’t fall into the over-scheduling trap. Kids need their parents to make space for them to just be, so they don’t feel compelled to constantly do-do-do.

If parents don’t take an active role in supporting each child’s individuality, then their uniqueness is going to take a back seat to their busy schedule, and this can create feelings of isolation or even depression in kids and lay the groundwork for workaholism later in life.

Kids discover their sense of self in the quiet moments of life, when they can relax, be themselves, and let their instincts lead. If they can’t find quiet, reflective moments in their overly busy lives, identifying individual desires may be delayed or denied. So be smarter than your sources, parents. Don’t let your child’s individuality get overlooked because you are keeping him steadily overbooked.

Prioritize The Calendar. Before you add another activity into the busy mix, pause and consider what’s already on the schedule for the entire family. It’s only natural to want to do it all, but saying yes to everything will only exhaust everyone and cut into valuable family time. If you can manage another addition, consider it.

If you can’t; then it’s time to prioritize.

Focus On Enrichment. Does the activity bring more joy and energy into your child’s life or does it create conflicts and anxiety? Joining the competitive soccer league may sound fun, but if your child does not enjoy the level of intensity, then maybe a local intramural league is a better fit. Don’t assume the most expensive or competitive choice is always the best fit for your child’s needs. Sometimes less really is more.

Shrug Off Kiddie Competition. Pressure to conform is ever-present in childhood. The kids next door participate in more activities than your kids? So what.

Left to their own devices, kids will often compare their experiences with other kids and find theirs lacking. How many times have you heard that their friends’ parents let them do this or that? Strong, secure parents can hear this without giving in to pressure. They do? That’s nice. This is what we do and these are the reasons why.

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the schedule or do stress and pressure run the show? Remember that your family deserves to feel calm and contented. Take charge of how you spend your time and your children will soon follow suit.

Find Mentors Of Character.

When you choose the activity, you also choose the role model who is in charge. Make sure coaches, organizers, and leaders are the types of people you want influencing your kids. Mentors who focus on character model healthy choices, and allow kids to act like kids while helping them build skills in a measured manner. If you are concerned that a coach or activity leader is over-zealous or too high-pressure, trust your instincts and investigate further.

Allow For Downtime. Be sure your family has at least a day or two each week when no outside activities are on the schedule. Whether you participate in a religious Sabbath or not, everyone in the family can benefit from observing a weekly day of rest. And spending a whole day enjoying family time each week will bring your family closer and remind everyone that family comes first.

Encourage Personal Development.

Kids need hobbies, just like adults. Private, personal activities that don’t have to be shared with others can be soothing, pleasurable, and teach kids to become more self-directed. So if your child loves to bake, knit, build models, or peer at the stars, support those interests. When you buy her special ingredients, pretty yarn, three types of glue, or the slightly better telescope, you are saying, “I see you and I support the person you are becoming.”

Relax, Kick Back & Hang Out Take back your family’s quality of life by trying some of these simple strategies.

Every child needs and wants this kind of recognition and acknowledgement from parents.

Be Honest With Yourself. Do you really care more about what others think of your kids than you do about your family’s overall happiness? Do you worry you are living in such a dog-eat-dog world that your child has to be hyper-busy to compete? Are you so concerned about your child’s social standing that you put her in activities she doesn’t care about to expose her to the right kids? If any of these are true, take a step back. When it comes to scheduling your child, let her needs lead, not yours.

Watch For Signals Of Over-doing.

Is your child happily content or often tired and irritable? Do you have a mutual admiration society at home or are family members always snipping at each other?

Is everyone sleeping well at night or is exhaustion the norm? Are you in charge of

• Have a family project you all work on year round in a leisurely manner like a vegetable garden or even a puzzle.

• Go on local outings with the mission of simply hanging out together.

• Take an occasional family walk together in a go-to location when something challenging needs to be discussed and sorted out.

• Watch a family double feature with popcorn, drinks, and lively discussions.

• Take the family to the library and spend an hour gathering books, magazines, music, and DVDs. • Make Sunday brunch a ritual activity either at home or at an inexpensive local restaurant.

• Have a casual but consistent family meeting once a week to get a better sense of how kids are feeling about the ways they spend their time.

Christina Katz is an author, journalist, and coach, who often writes on the topic of life balance and personal self-expression. She knows the power of saying no and is not afraid to use it.

IS YOUR HOME SECURE? Let Interscapes take care of your homes’ safety, so you can take care of what matters most.

We Specialize in: Intrusion Detection Security Monitoring Fire & CO Protection Video Surveillance Custom Home Theaters Home Automation and more!

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

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Johnson’s Martial Arts Wins Trophies in Atlanta

Briana Jackson, Byron Dixon, Hezekiah Hampton, Elijah Gross, Adiva Matthews-Richardson, and David Johnson won first- through fourth-place trophies in weapons, forms, and sparring at the Battle of Atlanta on June 18.

Distinguished Young Women Program Holds Orientation Tea

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The 2017 Distinguished Young Women Program of Montgomery County invites high school senior girls to participate in a scholarship program designed to inspire them to develop their full, individual potential through a fun, transformative experience. Scholarships are awarded in five categories: scholastics, interview, talent, fitness and self-expression. Other scholarships are awarded for Top Ten, 1st and 2nd Runner Up, and Spirit.

An Orientation Tea will be held on Sunday, August 21, at 2:30 p.m., at Saint James United Methodist Church, 9045 Vaughn Road, for those interested in further information. Participants must reside in Montgomery, be a United States Citizen and be graduating in 2017.

Prior to the tea, each interested senior girl may contact her counselor or the contact below to 1) get a card to fill out and mail in; 2) complete the information packet and forms (e-mailed to you once your information is received); and 3) register on-line at distinguishedyw.org. Be sure to complete the ACT or SAT and have your scores included on your transcript. Required information is included in the packet.

For more info, please contact Janet Coggins, president, at ywmontgomery@ gmail.com or at (334) 549-5515.

From left are Chloe Champion, 2nd Runner Up; Brooke Engles, 2016 DYW of Montgomery County; and Mary Braden Hendon, 1st Runner Up. Photo Courtesy of Paul Robertson Photography, Inc.

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Art and Music

Museum by well-known artists, older students learn to improve their skills in drawing, painting, and sculpture in this informative series of classes.

Projects include pen and ink, charcoal and conti drawings, acrylic and watercolor paintings, mixed media collages, clay and paper mache sculptures. All supplies are provided.

Class size is limited to 10 students.

Instructors: Museum Education staff Time: 3:45-4:45, Thursdays: September 22, 29; October 6, 20, 27; November 3, 17; December 1, 8, and 15, Cost: $100 members/$160 non-members for the series of 10 classes

Abrakadoodle Art Education Ignite your child’s imagination while developing their fine motor skills and art vocabulary. Let your child explore new art techniques and create their own unique masterpieces. We offer classes at many schools and locations in the Montgomery and surrounding areas.

Online registration is open now!

Visit our website to get full class listings and to register online. www.

Abrakadoodle.com/AL01 Call Susan Parker @ (334) 265.5758 for more information.

Carver Elementary School Extended Day Program (334) 269.3625 or (334) 269.3874. 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. Piano students must have an instrument upon which to practice. Registration is now going on. Please call for more information about registration dates and times.

Guitar & Music Lessons Chris Niel, Teacher. Call (334) 354.0896 or email cniel24@gmail.com. Weekly, 45 minute, one-onone guitar lessons. Improvisation /theory lessons for any instrumentalist. Beginners to advanced.

Kindermusik of Montgomery ad on page 65

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. Please visit our website at www.kindermusik.com. Contact Sara Hall at (334) 271.3264.

Melodic Vibes 8449 Crossland Loop, Suite 103 and 105. Kim Vaughn, (334) 220.0468. MELODICViBES, LLC is designed to provide opportunities for students to learn, create, and demonstrate their talents.

Private voice and private audition prep lessons.

Lessons are 1 hour session between 3:30-6:30, Montgomery Parents I August 2016

Monday through Thursday. Visit us on Facebook at MelodicVibe, LLC.

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts ad on page 59

Studio Programs: (334) 240.4365, 1 Museum Drive, 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 - 5, with an adult partner) These popular classes offer an opportunity for parents and their preschool children to create art together and learn about basic elements of art (such as line, shape, texture, and color) drawing, and painting techniques. Art projects are connected with works of art on view in the Museum. Classes are limited to 10 children and their adult partners.

Sign up for one class or the series of classes.

Instructor: Laura Bocquin, Time: 3:45-4:30 Thursdays: July 19; August 2, 16, 30; Sept. 13 Cost: $8 members/$12 non-members for each class, Children and Youth (ages 6 to 14) After School Art I (ages 6 to 9) Students explore a different art technique, element of art or principle of design, based on art in the Museum galleries in this weekly class. During the series of ten classes, two-dimensional projects include drawing with graphite, ink, oil and chalk pastels, collage, and painting with acrylics and watercolors. Three-dimensional activities include sculpting with clay, wire and plaster. All supplies are provided. Class size is limited to 12 students.

Instructors: Museum Education staff Time: 3:45 to 4:45 P.M., Wednesdays: September 21 and 28; October 5, 19 and 26; November 2, 16 and 30; December 7 and 14, Cost: $100 members/$160 non-members for the series of 10 classes After School Art II (ages 10 to 13) Inspired by paintings, prints, and sculptures in the

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Montgomery Symphony Youth Orchestra (334) 240.4004. Runs concurrent with the school year. Please call for audition date on September 10. Ages 13 and up. Orchestral Instruments. Call Sharon DeMuth at (334) 395.8370 or email abyfan@charter.net for more information.

Please visit montgomerysymphony.org and click the Programs link.

Montgomery Youth Chorale (334) 265.3737, www.montgomerychorale.org.

Sing all types of music from classical and jazz to gospel and pop. Purpose is to build self-confidence and a love of beauty through artistic preparation of excellent music. Please email info@montgomeryyouthchorale.org to schedule your child’s audition for membership. Please visit us at www.montgomerychorale.org for more information.

Music Education on Wheels (MEOW Academy) ad on page 57

(334) 657.7500, 104 Mendel Pkwy.

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.

Please visit us on Facebook under Music Education on Wheels M.E.O.W or at our website www. meowacademy.net for more information. Registration can be done online.

Piano Lessons by Summer Whatley (334) 546.2699, Private piano lessons offered to homeschoolers and adults year round. Lesson slots offered between the hours of 9 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. Monday thru Friday. 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. Please call for more info.

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(334) 354.1975, 138 W. Main St. Downtown Prattville.

Fall classes start September 6. Pick a day and time that fit your schedule. Classes meet once a week. $45 for the month. $20 supply fee per semester.

This cover supplies for Sept. – Dec. After school and Homeschool classes available. Please visit us at www. pzazzart.com or for more information or call us.

Tiffany’s Music Conservatory ad on page 90

Tiffany D. Orum , (256) 750.1719 Musician, Songwriter, Recording, Producer, Vocal, and Piano Lessons, and Special Events) For more information please email benton_tiffany@yahoo.com or visit on Facebook under tiffany.orum3@facebook.com.

Bowling BAMA Lanes (334) 272.5423, 3020 Atlanta Highway. Youth leagues on Fridays at 6:30. Ages 4-21. Free Youth Clinic August 12. Pre-registration with free bowling.

BAMA Lanes in Prattville (334) 358.8600, 1734 East Main Street. Youth leagues on Saturdays. Ages 4-20. Registration will be August 27th. Youth leagues start Sept.

10th. Please call for more information. Free bowling with paid membership. Please call for more information.

Brunswick Zone 1661 Eastern Blvd., (334) 819.7171. Youth Leagues will be starting up in the fall. Open house August 29th. You may come in and sign up anytime. Please visit us at www.bowlbrunswick.com.

Dance and Gymnastics Academy of Dance ad on page 61

Tammy Rauch, 2620 East 3rd Street, (334) 221.2657. Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Pointe and Lyrical. Classes for ages 3 through adult. Please call to register or visit us on Facebook under Tammy’s Academy of Dance.

Alabama Dance Theatre ad on page 55

(334) 241.2590, 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 Thursday, August 18.

ADT company auditions will be held Tuesday, August 16 for intermediate dancers who have begun pointe and advanced dancers. Classes will be held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, home of the Alabama Dance Theatre located at 1018 Madison Avenue. For more information please call 334-241-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com.

Armory Athletics Center 1018 Madison Ave., (334) 241.2789. 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.

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Bama Blaze Elite Cheer 6016 east Shirley Lane, (334) 233-1921 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. Please call or visit us on Facebook under Bama Blaze Elite Cheer.

Centre of Performing Arts 975 S. Memorial Drive, Prattville: (334) 491.1192.

Register now and classes begin in August 8. 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. Please visit the website www.centreforperformingarts.com or on Facebook under Centre of Performing Arts.

C.J.’s Dance Factory (home of the Prattville Ballet) 145 S. Court St. 334-467-8603

Voted the Best Dance Studio in the River Region.

Two locations now open to serve three counties, studios in Prattville and Marbury. Registration on Thursdays in Prattville 5:30-7:00. OPEN HOUSE DANCE PARTY: Thursday, August 4th 6:30-8:30, refreshments will be served. Bring a friend discount!

Professional instruction 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. Join our 9th year winter performance of The Princess Christmas Ballet. Audition information will be announced on our website, visit http://cjsdancefactory.com, like us on Facebook and check out our video at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UItDF6eOIO8 .

Dance Generation ad on page 53

65 Ashburton Drive, (334) 395.4300, Janice Ransom and Shawn Parker. Tap, Ballet, Lyrical, Pointe, Jazz, Baton, and Gymnastics. Ages 3 – 12th grade. Beginner, Intermediate and Advanced levels. Open House Registration August 11 from 3 p.m.- 6 p.m. and August 15 from 3 p.m. until 6 p.m. Registration going on now.

Classes begin in September. To pre-register you can call (334) 283.5249 or (334) 283.2201. Cost depends on class. Please visit www.dancegenerationstudio.com.

Laura’s School of Dance ad on page 59

47 N. Burbank Drive, (334) 322.7479 or atimeofdance10@yahoo.com. Offering Montgomery a Christian approach to the art of dance using Christian music to honor Him. Classes in ballet, pointe, tap and jazz. Ages 3 and up. Registration will be August 1-3 from 3 pm. until 7 p.m. Please call Jenny Moseley for more information.

Lisa’s Dance Dimensions 2981 Main St., Millbrook, (334) 285.5515 or (334) 221.4622. Ages 18 months through adult. Offer

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Parent/Tot, Ballet, Pointe, Lyrical, Jazz, Tap, and Gymnastics. Class times vary according to age and level.

Registration begins in July. Please call for registration and Open House dates. Classes start in August.

Please visit our website at www.lisasdancedimensions.com.

Mann Dance Studio 422 Pratt St., Prattville, (334) 365.5154. The studio offers and excels in all forms of dance, offering beginner, intermediate, and advanced classes. Registration will be August 2 and 9th from 5 to 7:30 p.m. Classes will begin August 15. Tap, Lyrical/Contemporary, Pointe, Ballet, Gymnastics, Hip Hop, Baton and Jazz.

Call for class times and dates. Ages 2 1/2 and up. www.manndancestudio.net Next Dimension Gymnastics 101A Penser Blvd., Millbrook, (334) 285.5515 or (334) 221.4622. Ages 18 months through adult. 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. Fall registration began in July. Please call for registration and Open House dates. Classes start in August. Please visit www.lisasdancedimensions.com.

The Montgomery Ballet 2101 Eastern Blvd, Suite 223 (The Courtyard), call (334) 409.0522 for information on classes. Mr. Joey and Mrs. Laura Villalovos, Co-Artistic and Co-School Director. 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 is August 1-5. Classes begin August 1st and the annual School Performance will be May 19th, 2017. Open enrollment. Classes offered in Classical Ballet, Pointe, Variation, Modern, Tap, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop and Contemporary. We also have a Civic Company. Please visit www.montgomeryballet.org.

River Region Ballet 7981 Vaughn Road, 356-5460. Registration going on now. Classes begin September 6th. Priscilla Crommelin Ball, Founder and Executive 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. Please visit our website at www.riverregionballet.com

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection ad on page 90

3370 Harrison Rd., (334) 277.1098. Fall registration will be August 8 & 9 from 4 until 7 p.m. Classes in Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Gymnastics, and ballroom. Ages 2 ½ to Adult (beginner and advanced) Please call for class dates and times. Preschool classes also available on site. Please visit our website at www.tonyaspeedsdanceconnection.com.

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United Gymstars & Cheer, L.L.C. ad on page 57

(334) 284.2244, 6100 Brewbaker Blvd. Offer Baby gym for infants to 18 mths. & 2; Kinder Gym ages 3-4. Junior Gym ages 5 & 6 yrs. yrs. Progressive ages 7 and up. Full range of cheer classes ages 8 and up. Tumbling, 5 and up. Boys preschool (ages 3 to 5), Boys progressive (6 & up). Please call for times and prices. Family discounts available.

Registration on a monthly basis. Parents night out offered. Visit our website at www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

Drama Classes & Public Speaking

Alabama Shakespeare Festival ad on page 77

Greta Lambert, (334) 271.5393, glambert@asf.net.

Website: www.asf.net, these classes help students develop skills and confidence need for auditions or presentations. Fee: $200 ASF Acting Academy: Acting Classes for All Ages

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

Fall Semester: Mondays, October 3-December 12 Rising Stars (Grades 3-5); 4 p.m. - 6 p.m.

Stage Door (Grades 6-8); 4 p.m. – 6 p.m.

For Teens: Curtain Call Players; 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

For Adults: Actor’s Workshop; 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.

Wetumpka Depot Players ad on page 61

noons (15 sessions) September-November. The basics of storytelling, character development, stage movement and other exciting skills will all culminate to an end-of-the-session program for family and friends! Book your tickets for a space in the Depot Days Youth Acting Academy by e-mailing kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com or calling (334) 868-1440.

All aboard Wetumpka’s most exciting after-school theatre program! After a 36-year history of providing summer theatre experiences for youth, the Wetumpka Depot Players are launching a brand-new after-school theatre education program for young artists. Young artists will work with instructors in a nurturing and creative environment to learn the basics of all things theatre. Children K-2nd grade may enroll in our Crafty Caboosers program that runs for 10 sessions on Tuesday afternoons, September-November. Our Energetic Engineers (3rd-6th grade) will meet on Mondays and Wednesday after-

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Educational BRICKS 4 KIDS ad on page 90

(334) 721.4111, Stephanie Shuford Afterschool enrichment, in-school workshops, birthday parties and so much more. We service the Montgomery area and we look forward to reaching out and serving the children of this great city. We introduce the concept of S.T.E.M. (science, technology, engineering and mathematics). Please call for more information.

Horses MANE (Montgomery Area Non-Traditional Equestrians) ad on page 60

(334) 213.0909, 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. Please call for more information or visit our website at www. maneweb.org.

Seven Oaks Equestrian Center Located between I-85 and Vaughn Road, one mile south of The Waters, in Pike Road. Call (334) 260.7972 or (334) 657.1065. Riding lessons offered. Please call for information.

Shade Tree Riding Academy ad on page 61

(334) 290.3727 or (334) 546.3964, 566 Thornfield Dr., Millbrook. Gentle, experienced horses, easy trail and knowledgeable staff to assist beginners. Call today for more information.

Martial Arts Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center 2179 Taylor Rd., Montgomery, 36116 (334) 220.5835, Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center offers an affordable family friendly martial arts program with no long-term contracts. Anti-abduction curriculum, Random Acts of Kindness Program, Academic Achievement Program and MORE all taught by nationally certified instructors...check

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us out! ***Ages 4 & older/Lil’ Dragons (ages 4-5) offered during the school year! With all memberships you receive a free uniform. Please visit www. trytkdfree.com.

Family Karate Center 8159 Vaughn Rd, Peppertree Shopping Center.

(334) 277.4911. 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.

Founders of the “Stranger Danger Child Abduction Prevention Program, ASK MOM FIRST Child Molestation Prevention, and the How to Handle Bullies and Aggressive People Program. Family Karate Center now also offers Japanese Martial Arts Training and Weaponry. Master Carole Smith, is a certified post-trauma rape counselor, one of the highest ranking female instructors in the Southeast, and has 45 years of experience in self defense and counseling. We are the only

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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. Our referral program pays you $20 for every enrollment you send us. Military discount offered. Visit our website at www.montgomeryfamilykarate.com.

Fleming’s Martial Art Institute ad on page 60

4315 Atlanta Hwy, (334) 277.KICK (5425). Family rates available. Free uniform with all programs.

Karate Kubs (ages 3-5), Junior Taekwondo (3 and up), Junior Weaponry, and Junior Jia Jitsu (7 and up). Develops self-confidence, teaches self-defense, improves grades, develops coordination, promotes fitness and is fun. Call for times and prices. Please visit our website at www.flemingsmartialarts.com Johnson Karate and Fitness Center (334) 284.2344, 2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd. Suite J. Classes for ages 3 to Adults. At Johnson’s Karate & Fitness Academy we teach Tae Kwon Do, Self-Defense, Private Lessons, Fitness Kickboxing, Pilates,

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and Sport Karate. We are now offering early morning Kick Boxing classes. We offer free trial lessons. Phil. 4:13. Please visit us on Facebook at Johnson’s Martial Arts Academy.

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Martial Arts Center 2055 Harmon Street, (334) 318.1892.

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

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prices. Please visit us on Facebook at The Martial Arts Center Inc. NextGen Martial Arts, Prattville 698 Old Farm Lane N, Prattville, (334) 590.3759.

Tang Soo Do, Li’l Dragons (4-6 years) and XMA (Xtreme Martial Arts) offered. Many programs available. Please visit www.nextgenmartialarts.com.

Tiger Park Taekwondo & Chung’s Taekwondo 3125 Bell Road, Montgomery, (334) 277.2627 Classes for everyone Ages 3 to adult.

Please visit on the web at www.tigerparktkd.com Tiger Rock Martial Arts 2750 Bell Rd., (334) 244.1465 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.

US Yoshukai Karate 290 N. Burbank Dr., (334) 657.2032. Please call, visit our website at www.yoshukai.com. Please or visit us on Facebook under US Yoshukai Karate for more details and classes offered.. Ages 5 and up.

Recreational & Sports Boys & Girls Clubs of the River Region Administrative Office, (334) 832.4288 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 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.

Boy Scouts 3067 Carter Hill Rd.; (334) 262.2697. 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. Visit our website www.tukabatcheebsa.org.

Churches Check local churches for programs. AWANA Programs are popular. www.awana.org Daycares Please check with local daycare centers for the option of after school care. Check out Montgomery Parents on the web at www.montgomeryparents. com and use our archived April Child Care Directory to get started.

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Doster Center, Prattville (334) 361.3640, 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 ad on page 7

(334) 495.6459, Atlanta Hwy. Program available for girls 5 years through 9th grade and boys 5 years through 9th grade. Registration only during the month of October. Practice begins in December.

Games begin in January. Please call for more information or visit our website at www.frazerumc.org.

Frazer Upward Football and Cheerleading ad on page 7

Program offered Aug.-Oct. for children age 5 through 6th grade. Spiritual development through devotionals, coaching and athletic skills. Registra-

tion is open now. Please visit us at www.frazer. church under the family and sports & fitness tabs for registration link.

Girl Scouts (334) 272.9164, 145 Coliseum Boulevard. 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. Please visit our website at www.girlscoutssa.org.

Montgomery YMCA ad on page 56

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), minisoccer (ages 4 & 5), aquatic program, cheerlead-

ing (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.

Fall Outdoor Mini-Soccer for ages 4 & 6 Fall Season: September/November. Games are held on Tuesday or Thursday after 5 p.m. Registration begins in July. Season begins in August and will end in October.

Football for ages 6-7, 8-9, 10, or 11-12 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 17th.

Cheerleading for ages 6-12 (no 7th graders allowed) Season: September-November. Games on Saturdays. Registration going on now until August 17th.

Basketball for ages 4-15 Registration begins in September.

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

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for more information. They can also be contacted online at www.ymcamontgomery.org.

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, February-March, JuneAugust. Ages 7-17. Games Monday, Tuesdays, Thursday, Friday and Saturday depending on age group. Registration TBA Indian Guide (Parent-Child Program) The Adventure Guides and Princesses offers activities for children 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.

Other contact numbers: Soccer Branch, (334) 396.9754 or (678) 571-7605 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

Montgomery YMCA Goodtimes Center ad on page 56

2325 Mill Ridge Dr., off Bell Road, (334) 279.8666. Ages 5 to 12. 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.

Prattville YMCA ad on page 54

(334) 365.8852 or for the Prattville Bradford Branch call Betty Estes, (334) 358.1446. 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.

Main Site cost is $50 for first child for members and $60 for non-members per week. Discounts for second and third children. Family discounts available. Other programs include Youth Legislature, grades 9 - 12. Fall sports are as follows: Football for boys ages 6-12; Cheerleading for girls ages 6-12; Little Dunkers Basketball for ages 4 & 5, Mini-Basketball for ages 6 & 7, Basketball for kids ages 8-17. Also cheer, tumble, gymnastics and swim lessons available. Please call for fall sports registration dates.

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Therapeutic Recreation Center (334) 240.4595, 604 Augusta Street For the mentally and physically challenged. Registration is in August. Various programs available.

Classes run from 4 p.m. - 5 p.m. Monday thru Friday. Transportation is provided for Montgomery public schools. Space is limited, so please register

on time. Please call for more information about registrations dates and times.

us on Facebook under AYSO 297 for more information and for online payment option. You can reach us by email at board@ayso297.org.

Wetumpka YMCA (334) 567.8282. 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, cheerleading, basketball, karate, TBall, 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, Mini-soccer for ages 4-5.

FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal

Soccer AYSO297 Fall/Spring Soccer Fall 2016/Spring 2017 Registration opens in August.

Please visit us online at www.ayso297.org or visit

ad on page 55

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Boulevard (indoor/air conditioned) 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.) Please visit www.fcmontgomery.com and contact coach Bruno brunomr@fcmontgomery. com or (334) 207.5442

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Frazer Sonshine Soccer ad on page 7

(334) 495.6459, Atlanta Hwy. Held at Frazer Soccer Fields will be held in the Spring. Please call for more information or visit our website at www. frazerumc.org for more information.

St. James Upward Soccer (334) 277.3037, 9045 Vaughn Rd. K4 through 4 grade (boys and girls welcome) Registration begins in August. Practice begins the week of September 6th. First game is Saturday, September 10th. Please call or visit us at www. sjlife.com and click on the children tab.

YMCA Capital City Streaks 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. Please contact us by email at msanchez@ capitalcitystreaks.org or visit us at www.capitalcitystreaks.org

Skating KLynn Skating School at the Eastdale Mall Ice Rink ad on page 53

(334) 272.7225. Montgomery’s Only Ice Skating School. Classes starting soon please call for dates and rates. Private Lessons Available. Call for more details or visit www.klynnice.com.

River Skate Park 301 Bibb St., in Downtown Montgomery.

This facility features a 5-foot mini ramp and invites all skaters of all ages to come out, hop on their boards and smooth their skills while having some fun. Membership is sold in seasonal passes. Call (334) 240.4561 for more details.

Skate Zone 2000 (334) 567.4434, 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.

Swimming/Scuba Adventure Sports Aquatic Center ad on page 54

1546 E. Ann Street, (3340 269.3483. Heated indoor pool year round. Swimming Lessons, Scuba and Life Guard Classes. Visit www. adventuresports2.com.

YMCA Barracuda’s Competitive Swim Team 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. They can also be contacted online at www.ymcamontgomery.org.

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Tennis Hampstead Tennis (334) 207.9821, Jan Gelabert. 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. Please call or email Hampsteadtennis@att.net for details or information on our programs.

9-18), Tuesdays and Thursday from 4 until 5 p.m.

Please call for class times and days. Please call Danny Leal for more information.

spelling, writing, graduation exit exam, ACT and SAT. Certified, skilled teachers. Credit/debit cards accepted.

Tutoring

Huntington Learning Center 2800 Zelda Rd., (334) 277.9200. Individual testing and tutoring in reading, study skills, writing, phonics, spelling, math and ACT/SAT prep, GED and exit exam. Students ages 5 - adult.

500 Anderson Street, (334) 240.4884 After-school Tennis Clinics offered during the school year for all ages. Fall sessions begin August 15 and will run every school day through December 15.

Please call or visit www.oconnortenniscenter.com for more information on dates and time.

“Bee” Smart Tutorial & Childcare Development Center 1738 West 3rd Street, Montgomery, (334) 3032627 Get a Head Start on Good Grades! Does your child have low grades, need to get ahead in school, need after school care or need to get ready for Kindergarten? “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. Ask us about our excellent Summer Enrichment Program.

Wynlakes Tennis 7900 Wynlakes Blvd., (334) 273.8425.

Two classes available: Peewee’s (ages 4-8), Mondays from 5 until 6 p.m., and Excellence (ages

Enjoy Learning Center 2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd., Suite H, (334) 270.0234.

One-on-one tutoring for ages 4 to adult. Math, science, chemistry, reading, comprehension, phonics,

O’Connor Tennis Center ad on page 56

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Kumon of Montgomery - Central ad on page 35

1655 Perry Hill Rd, (334) 279.1400. 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. Please call or visit us at www. kumon.com/montgomery-central.

Kumon Reading and Math Center ad on page 35

8125 Vaughn Rd, (334) 649.1178. After-school academic enrichment program that helps children achieve success. The Kumon Math program devel-

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ops 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. Please call us or visit our website at www. kumon.com.

MasterRead 2815-C Zelda Rd., (334) 271.6295 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.

Mathnasium ad on page 62

3457 Taylor Road, (334) 356.1570. 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. Please call (334) 356.1570 or visit our website at www.mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery.

Success Unlimited ad on page 26

2328 Fairlane Drive, (334) 213.0803. Tutoring available for any subject. Tutoring provided by Christian certified teachers. Please call for rates. Call (334) 213.0803 to register. Class size limited. www. suacademy.com

Sylvan Learning Center ad on page 58

2640 Zelda Rd., (334) 262.0043. Study skills, (courses for credit) writing/grammar, reading, math and SAT/ACT college preparation. Also individualized tutoring. Diagnostic evaluation. Students improve skills, becoming more motivated and gaining in self-confidence. Certified teachers.

Miscellaneous Go Karting Montgomery (334) 271.2020, 9033 Wares Ferry Road GKM offers outdoor go carting, indoor laser tag, indoor bumper cars, indoor mini golf, mini ferris wheel coaster, mini roller coaster, chuck wagon ride, 80’s

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video game arcade, billiard tables, air hockey tables, foosball, skeeball, two party rooms and an eye clinic with free vision screenings. Please call or visit our website at www.gokartingmontgomery.com.

JoAnns’s Fabric & Craft Stores Eastchase Market Center, 7951 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery, (334) 409.2640 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. You can visit us on the web at www.joann.com Michaels East Chase Market Center, 7991 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery, (334) 260.2846 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 Micheals for class descriptions, times and fees. mp

Please contact us if you know of after school activities not listed at editor@montgomeryparents.com.

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Money Toys Make Sense

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

As our regular partners on daily errands, children also have a front row seat to observe our financial transactions along the way. Kids see us swipe debit cards, listen to us count change and even watch us struggle to remember our PayPal passwords. Introducing commerce and currency through play can take the mystery out of money. The following toys help kids understand the coin of the realm and start their own smart money habits.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Laugh and Learn Piggy Bank

Just Like Home Cash Register

Piggy banks are often a child’s first introduction to the notion of saving money. Fisher-Price expands on the traditional pig with the Laugh and Learn Piggy Bank that turns coin play into a full sensory experience. In addition to dropping colorful over-sized coins into the slotted back (and retrieving them easily through the big side door), the bank offers interactive features as well. Pressing the pig’s nose generates silly songs, music and entertaining phrases. The level of learning can be adjusted between two settings; the first offers basic words and sounds for wee ones, the second adds simple directions, colors, numbers and Spanish for the older tot.

Giving kids the opportunity to explore commerce from the other side of the aisle, the Just Like Home Cash Register offers a simplified experience of the retail end of shopping. Children can use the hand-held scanner to light up the included grocery items on the movable conveyor belt. The register processes payments using the credit card slot or play money transactions through the pop-open cash drawer. There’s also a working calculator that reinforces counting and number skills.

Sized for the preschool set and available in different colors, the Just Like Home Cash Register adds valuable learning to pretend play.

ATM Savings Bank

Magic Penny Magnet

(Fisher-Price)

(My Cash Register)

(Peers Hardy)

An automated teller machine (ATM) is an ideal way to demonstrate the intersection of real currency and electronic banking. This kid-sized version simplifies the process of depositing money and keeping a digital record of transactions. The battery-operated machine lets young bankers set up their own pass code which is used in combination with the included ATM card to make deposits and withdrawals, while keeping a digital record of their account. The ATM reads coin amount deposited in the slot, but paper money amounts are entered manually.

Correct entries support an accurate balance, fostering the importance of diligence when managing money. This personal banking tool give kids a great early understanding of personal finance.

(Dowling Magnets)

Handling money takes many forms. Beyond the counting of coin, an appreciation for its form and properties can also be educational and entertaining. The Magic Penny Magnet Set features a super magnetic base and 32 freshly minted British coins (plus a bonus U.S. penny). The powerful attraction of the magnets allows kids (and adults) to explore building structures and shapes with the coins as they connect and bond through force alone. Guided by the included activity book or simply enjoying independent creativity, this set supports an interest in coin that goes beyond its monetary value.

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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Docarmo’s Taekwondo Student Places at USA Nationals

Christian Sanders, a Red Belt at Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, recently attended the 2016 U.S. National Championships in Richmond, Va., coming away with a Bronze Medal.

“This national level taekwondo tournament is the largest in the world with more than 6,000 competitors; it takes a full week to run everyone through their divisions,” said Master Anne Docarmo, owner and operator of Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center. “Participants from across the United States compete in Forms, Board Breaking, Weaponry, and Olympic Sparring. They are divided by rank, gender, age and weight.

Christian came from a point sparring background and asked to give this higher level of sparring a try.

We are so pleased with his Bronze Medal.”

USA Taekwondo hosts this tournament along with the U.S. Open every February to prepare participants in the United States for eventual Olympic and international level competition. USA Taekwondo is the national governing body of Olympic Taekwondo, and is located at the Olympic Training Center in Colorado Springs.

Docarmo’s Taekwondo has been active in the USA Nationals for years with a great level of success; Olympic style taekwondo is not widely practiced in Alabama. One of the goals of Docarmo’s is to spread this international style in the state.

“I loved the challenge and was super excited to meet a couple of the Rio Olympic Team members,” Sanders said. “It motivated me to continue to improve myself and work hard.”

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

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Everyone has to deal with feelings of anger and frustration at times. While these feelings are normal, it is important to teach kids how to appropriately deal with them.

Parents and kids can work as a team to come up with strategies for these situations. “Unfortunately, many kids have never been given the opportunity to think of those other ways to calm down. They keep getting into trouble because the only behaviors they know are inappropriate ways to express their anger.” (www.parents.com) Working together to prepare a plan in advance will help children learn how to calm down and discuss why the feelings occurred. “Once the child chooses his ‘calm down’ technique, encourage him to use the same strategy each time he starts to get angry.” Here are some examples of this technique for each age group.

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The Toddler Years (ages 0-2) Prepare: Observe what calms your child. Is it snuggling up with a parent?

What toys does he play with quietly?

Make note of what is calming for your child and use these activities later when the child is upset.

Act: Children of this age do not understand their feelings. When the child becomes frustrated and angry, use one calming technique you observed. Sing a song, snuggle up with a book, get out a new toy, or start a new activity. Remain calm yourself and use a soothing voice while speaking to the child.

Discuss: Think about what caused the child’s anger and discuss with other caregivers what may be common frustrations for your child. If a toy is causing the child to become angry, simply remove it.

If the child was overtired or hungry, adjust meals and bedtime. During the toddler years, tantrums are normal and may happen frequently. Try to remember this is one of the ways that toddlers are able to communicate their feelings. Be patient and know that this stage will pass as the child matures and their vocabulary develops.

The Preschool Years (ages 3-5) Prepare: On a calm day, talk with your preschooler about different types of feelings, giving names to them. Some find a chart or photos helpful when explaining.

Discuss appropriate behavior when angry and talk about actions to help them calm down. Calming suggestions for preschoolers may include drawing a picture, playing with cars, doing a simple puzzle, singing and dancing to music, running, jumping, or hugs. Sherrie Hoffman of Hiawatha, KS says “With my five year old, slow deep breaths help. Then, when he can talk, we discuss what has upset him.”

Act: When feelings of anger begin, ask them, in a calm voice, to try one of the techniques discussed earlier. Remind them you will talk about it when they are calm. Do not feed into their actions unless they are working on becoming calm.

Discuss: Later, ask the child to share why they became angry and come up with ideas of how to prevent the situation in 69

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Custom Heirloom Clothing

Beginner Sewing Classes Taught

Smocking, Monogramming, Great Selection of Fabrics, Patterns & Laces.

Open W-F 10-6, Sat 9-1

Come by or Call Today!

Off Hwy 231 in Wetumpka 12 Cambridge Court - (334) 567-2448 Take 231, turn left @ River Bank & Trust, then left on Cambridge Ct. in Magnolia Commons Business Park.

the future. Remind them it is normal to feel angry at times and let them know you are proud of the way they used the techniques to calm down.

It is no secret that our behavior as parents affects our kids. How a parent deals with feelings of anger can have a huge impact on how our children will react when they feel angry. Here are some tips to model appropriate behavior when those feelings occur:

The School Years (ages 6-11)

Tips to Help Parents Cool Down

Prepare: Discuss

• Walk away • Take some deep breaths • Keep a calm voice • Use calm body language (no slamming doors or stomping around) • Diffuse anger by doing a calming activity (tidy up, take a walk, splash water on your face) • Fake it until you make it • Make a commitment in advance to keep your cool • Think about how your actions affect your kids • Acknowledge that it is normal for children to push your buttons • Try to see the humor in the situation

common triggers for your child and come up with a plan of how to handle them. Talk about the difference between appropriate and inappropriate anger.

Like the preschool age, come up with a technique that helps calm the child and plan to use it when needed.

Ideas for this age group could include: going to their bedroom and listening to their favorite music, kicking a soccer ball, swinging on the swing set, or screaming into a pillow.

Act: When the child becomes angry, calmly let them know that you see they are upset and would like to talk about it when they are calm. “We don’t talk about a problem until they are calm and if they get worked up while explaining what is wrong then we take deep breaths until they are calm again.” says Rachael Kennedy, mother of five.

Discuss: When the child has calmed down, listen to their frustrations. Let them know it is okay to feel angry and praise them for handling it well. Ask them what could have been different and come up with solutions as a team.

The Teen Years (ages 12 and up) Prepare: At this age the child may be aware of what sets them off and so may Montgomery Parents I August 2016

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the parent.

Try to problem solve how to avoid situations that make them angry.

Come up with ways that they can calm down on their own.

Ideas for this age include taking a walk, tidying up their room, listening to music, journaling, taking a shower or bath, or calling a friend to vent.

Act: Calmly

mention that you see they are angry and ask them to please take a break from the situation until they can calm down.

Give them space unless they want to talk and be patient. If appropriate, leave them alone in house to calm down.

Discuss: Later after everyone is ready, discuss what happened. Problem solve what a solution could be now or in the future. Come to a compromise about what could be different and ask them for as much input as possible.

The goal of these techniques is to teach kids that all feelings are normal, even anger. Teaching these techniques gives kids the tools they need to deal with anger in an appropriate way and teaches them how to use problem solving to work through a frustrating situation.

Sarah Lyons is a wife and mother of six children living in suburban Kansas City.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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Local Agency Works to Provide Service Dogs

Service Dogs Alabama is dedicated to providing medical and psychiatric Service Dogs to children and veterans with debilitating or life-threatening disabilities and School Service Dogs that are trained to assist educators and counselors with student interventions that create drama-free classrooms.

More than 150,000 dogs are euthanized in Alabama each year, so SDA rescues at least 50 dogs per year and promotes shelter adoption.

Children with disabilities are far more likely to be bullied in school and suffer depression than typical children, often causing isolation and failing grades. SDA’s goal is to provide a trained Service Dog to assist with the child’s disability, build his confidence, and open doors for social inclusion.

Diabetes kills more people than AIDS and breast cancer combined. A person with diabetes risks having a seizure, coma, or death with every undetected blood sugar low. With every blood sugar high, major organs are consistently damaged. SDA provides children with brittle Juvenile Diabetes with life-saving Diabetic Alert Dogs who can detect a blood sugar change before a child can feel it or shows any symptoms.

At least 22 military veterans commit suicide every day, mostly due to PTSD and combatrelated guilt which can overpower the emotional coping capacities of veterans. SDA provides dogs that are trained specifically for PTSD and other disabilities to our veterans who are in desperate need of a lifeline to finish their education, hold down a job, or live a quality life.

Stress factors in schools impede confidence, learning and physical and mental health.

SDA provides trained and certified School Service Dogs to assist teachers and counselors with at-risk, defiant, or disruptive students, and a “follow the lead” back-up method to maximize inclusion and participation in schools.

Cost to a state of convicting a felon can easily exceed $100,000. SDA helps to rehabilitate prison inmates and reduce recidivism rates by training Service Dogs in prisons.

For more info, call (334) 676-3733 or visit www.ServiceDogsAlabama.org.

Shown are Alex and his Diabetic Alert Dog, Jeffy.

Alabama in the Age of Aquarius

August 19 - 20 Join us at the Archives for a two-day event exploring the cultural, political and social themes in Alabama in the decade after 1965.

A symposium on Friday, August 19, will feature expert speakers and panel discussions on a wide variety of topics including school integration, student protests, changing roles of women, African Americans in politics, and more. A complete schedule and registration are available at www.archives.alabama.

Cost is $30 for the public, $20 for Friends of the Archives members, and $10 for students.

There will be FREE admission Saturday, August 20, for a ‘70s Family Fun Day! From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., come dressed in your ‘70s best for family-friendly games, crafts, a photo booth, and a dance party!

At noon, there will be a screening of the 2013 documentary Muscle Shoals.

At 2 p.m., The Muscle Shoals Sound will be presented by Judy Hood, Muscle Shoals Swampette.

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Girls Scouts Power Up with a Bully Prevention Program

how to identify each person in a bullying situation. Lastly, they learn how to effectively be the defender by using 10 words or less and avoiding questions to the bully that will make them continue to target the subject. Four antidotes to bullying include a strong sense of self, being a friend, having a friend, and knowing how to switch friends successfully.

For girls in grades 6-12th who have participated in the program, outcomes consisted of 94 percent of girls learning ways to help someone who was being bullied, 87 percent of girls made a personal commitment to avoid bullying behaviors, and 92 percent of girls committed to defending others when they witness bullying.

In addition to the Power Up program, through Girl Scouting, girls learn important characteristics, such as being honest and fair, friendly and helpful, considerate and caring, and how to respect their self and others at all times. Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama promotes the Power Up program in traditional, outreach, and in-school Troops in hopes of building girls of courage, confidence, and character who will make the world a better place and positively impact the national issue of bullying.

Power Up to bullying because doing nothing changes nothing! For more information about bullying prevention and awareness, please visit www.rocktaskforce.com, or email info@rocktaskforce.com.

Every seven minutes a child is bullied, with 85 percent of bullying happening in front of bystanders. Because of the devastating effects of bullying, Girl Scouts, the leading expert on girls, is providing effective tools for girls to Power Up. An all-girl program created by a Girl Scout council in Colorado, Power Up is focused on preventing verbal and relational bullying that’s common among girls in grades 4-12.

Relational bullying affects a girl’s sense of self-worth through exclusion, drama, and gossip, and is usually not included in bullying programs. Since Relational bullying is common among girls, Power Up teaches girls how to identify bullying, explore ways to prevent it, and to be prepared to intervene when it’s happening.

Power Up starts by building a community where girls feel safe and comfortable with discussing bullying, which will in turn make them start to feel empathy for their peers. The girls then dive deeper to know the true meaning of bullying and

Article contributed by Meghan Cochrane.

In conjunction with the Montgomery Chapter of the Public Relations Council of Alabama, Montgomery Parents is devoting space in the coming year for a series of articles on bullying to raise awareness.

HOW CAN YOUR SCHOOL GET INVOLVED?

FIND OUT AT ROCKTASKFORCE.COM. RIVER REGION ROCK TASK FORCE. CREATING A SAFER, KINDER RIVER REGION.

STMP-32445-Rock Ad for Parents & Journey Mar15.indd 1

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School Backpacks

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Keeping Your Child Safe Many students in the United States carry school backpacks. Numerous studies suggest there is an association between backpack use and injury. When a child carries a backpack filled with heavy books and supplies and is also worn incorrectly, the child tends to lean forward at the hips or arch the back. This position creates pressure on the spine and will lead to the development of shoulder, neck, and back pain. Shelly Goodgold identified five warning signs of a heavy backpack: (1) struggling to put on or take off the backpack, (2) pain when wearing the backpack, (3) tingling or numbness, (4) red marks, and (5) noticeable changes in posture. The American Occupational Therapy Association (AOTA) has developed tips to keep children safe as they carry their backpacks to and from school. The AOTA offers the following tips:

• Choose the right size backpack for your child as well as one with enough room for necessary school items.

• The bottom of the backpack should rest in the curve of the lower back. It should never rest more than 4 inches below the child’s waistline.

• The shoulder straps should be well-padded.

• Both shoulder straps should be worn as wearing one shoulder strap can cause the child to lean to one side, curving the spine and causing pain and discomfort.

• The heaviest items should be loaded closer to the child’s back and balance materials so the child can easily stand upright.

• Wear the chest and waist belt if the backpack has one, to relieve strain on the neck and shoulder muscles.

• The backpack should weigh no more than 10 percent of the child’s body weight. This means a child who weighs 100 pounds should never wear a loaded backpack heavier than 10 pounds.

• If the backpack is still too heavy, consider a book bag on wheels. If a school prohibits the use of a book bag on wheels, teachers may

consider issuing a second set of books to be kept at home; replace textbooks with e-books, or other electronic learning materials; create space in the classroom to house books; and assign lockers.

Keeping your child safe is paramount.

When looking to purchase the right backpack, consider the features of a backpack; recognize when the backpack is too heavy; and reinforce the proper way to pack and carry the backpack.

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Dr. Angela Thomas-Davis is a professor of occupational therapy at Alabama State University.

If you would like to consult Dr. Davis about hosting a backpack safety event for your school or community organization, she can be reached at adavis@alasu.edu or 334.229-5612.

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Family Karate Demo Team Travels To Georgia

The Family Karate Center has a demo team that practices each Saturday. The students work on weapon scenes, street self defense, Stranger Danger defense, women’s self defense and other martial arts demos to perform for the public and the tri-county area.

The team and parents traveled to Gainesville, Ga. July 15-16 to perform a display of exciting martial arts techniques to the song “No Monsters” by Christian singer Carman.

Many instructors and parents from many schools congratulated the team on their touching message and the techniques they had choreographed for this event. The Family Karate Center students all earned medals that weekend for their hard work and practice.

Would you like a free demonstration of self defense safety techniques for children and teens performed at your event? Call The Family Karate Center today for more info.

Being a member of the demo team is FREE for students and has Saturday classes! We are located at 8159 Vaughn Rd. in Peppertree Shopping Center.

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

Armory Athletics Girls Win at State Tournament

Armory Athletics compulsory girls competed in the state championship in Tuscaloosa in December. There were 15 individual event champions and four All-Around winners, along with a team championship from the Level 3 team. The optional girls’ team competed in the Optional State championship in Tuscaloosa March 18-20. The girls came home with seven event winners, two state champions and eight regional qualifiers.

Girls Level 1 winners were Myra Jane Brown, Vault; and Brianna Morrell, Vault and Floor; Girls Level 2 winners were: Emmy Phung, Bars; and Maddie Johnson, Beam; Girls Level 3: Jace Holmes, Vault, Floor, All-Around; Hailey McLaughlin, Vault; Heaven Relf, Vault, Floor, All-Around; Harmony Nelson, Beam,

NOW ENROLLING K4-12 2016-2017

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

For a FREE Educational Success Consultation please contact the school office

Floor, All-Around; and Samantha Wilson, Beam.

Level 3 Team also won First Place.

Girls Level 4 winners were Amy Treloar, Bars, All-Around; and Meagan Crum, Floor; Girls Level 6: Baylie Grace Long, Vault; Girls Level 7: Landyn Williams, Vault, Beam; Haley Wren, Vault, Beam; and Regional Qualifiers: Borden Lash, Phoebe Reed, Landyn William and Haley Wren.

Girls Level 8 winners were Malia Roberson, Vault, All- Around, Regional Team Member; Morgan Ward, Floor; Aidan Clark, All-Around; and Regional Qualifiers: Emelea Bostic, Aidan Clark, Madison Kille, Kristin LeMaster, Logan Womack and Malia Roberson.

From left are Aidan Clark, Logan Womack, Haley Wren, Phoebe Reed, Borden Lash, Malia Roberson, Landyn Williams, Madison Kille, Kristin LeMaster and Emelea Bostic.

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4-H Rifle Club Competes in Wiregrass Contest

Prattville Scout Earns Eagle Status

Dylan Hurst, a member of Troop 111 of Prattville, earned the rank of Eagle Scout April 21. For his Eagle project, he created a bird sanctuary, with birdhouses and feeders, along one of the trails at the Arboretum Nature Center in Montgomery. He also built and placed benches at each end of the trail, and replaced the trail signs with new ones.

This project will provide an opportunity for students in Montgomery County Public Schools to experience nature in an outdoor classroom setting.

Hurst is entering his senior year at Brew Tech Magnet High School in Montgomery, and wants to pursue a career in journalism.

Proud parents Dale and Kim Hurst, shown with Dylan and his sister, Faith, stand with Nova, Auburn University’s Eagle.

The River Region Rifles 4-H Shooting Sports Club attended the 2016 Alabama State Games in the Wiregrass area June 10-12.

In the three position-air rifle sporter individual event (for ages 15-16), Sarah Phillips took Gold, Hailey Palmer took Silver and Taylor Cowan took Bronze. In the three position-air rifle sporter individual event (for ages 17-18), Jacob Miller took Silver and Amber Chastain took Bronze. In the three position-air rifle sporter team event, the Fox Squirrels (age 17-18) took Gold.

In the three position-air rifle sporter individual event (for ages 13-14), Dawson Kissik took Gold, Tamara Phillips took Silver and Conner Lee took Bronze. In the three position-air rifle sporter team event, Guns and Roses (age 15-16) took Gold.

In the rimfire sporter team event, ages 13-14 took Gold: Tamara Phillips, Dawson Kissik and Conner Lee. In the rimfire sporter team, ages 15-16 took Gold: Sarah Phillips and Hailey Palmer.

In the rimfire sporter individual contest for ages 13-14, Tamara Phillips took Gold, Dawson Kissik took Silver and Conner Lee took Bronze. In the rimfire sporter individual contest for ages 15-16, Sarah Phillips took Gold and Hailey Palmer took Silver. In the rimfire sporter individual contest for ages 1718, Jacob Miller took Gold, Morgan Popwell took Silver and Amber Chastain took Bronze.

The rimfire sporter team for ages 17-18 took Gold.

Front row from left are Sarah Phillips, Conner Lee, Amber Chastain and Jacob Miller; back row from left are Hailey Palmer, Tamara Phillips, Dawson Kissik and Taylor Cowan.

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

Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!

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

Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more!

We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16...

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Montgomery Parents I August 2016

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Nutcracker Ballet Auditions To Be Held at Tonya Speed

The Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker will hold auditions Monday, October 3, at 6:30 p.m. for ALL local dancers ages 6-17. This year’s performance will be December 26 at Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Auditions will be held at Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 3370 Harrison Road in Montgomery. Call 277-1098 for more info.

Back the Blue Takes ‘HandsOn’ Approach to Police Appreciation

Police officers risk their lives every day to make sure we are safe. Throughout the month of September, citizens have an opportunity to show their appreciation through a program called “Back the Blue.”

HandsOn River Region has planned a month-long initiative in honor of the anniversary of 9-11 to promote community appreciation of police officers actively working to keep Montgomery safe. “Throughout the month of September, we encourage area residents to express their gratitude for the selfless public servants who wear the badge and put themselves in harm’s way to keep us safe and pay respect for those who have lost their lives in the line of duty,” said HandsOn Executive Director Jo Ann Johnson.

Churches, organizations, schools, businesses or individuals can participate by visiting police stations to provide whatever possible to say thank you: perhaps a home-cooked meal, cookies or even a case of water. Blue ribbons will be available free of charge at the HandsOn office for residents to pick up and display on their vehicle antenna or wear on their shirt to show their support as well.

Other suggestions include: wear blue clothing in support of law enforcement; send a card of support to your local police department or state agency; share a story about a positive law enforcement experience on social media; ask children in your community to write letters in support of law enforcement; proudly display a blue light in support of law enforcement; organize an event or a rally in support of your law enforcement officers; advertise your support through local media outlets/billboards; restaurants can offer a free cup of coffee or breakfast to police; and most importantly, if you see a police officer, thank a police officer.

In addition to Back the Blue, HandsOn will be joined by area police to present assembly programs at four local elementary schools to help the students understand the importance of honoring the police and appreciating the significance of 9/11. “We’re just trying to promote the sense of volunteerism and community,” said Johnson.

HandsOn River Region mobilizes volunteers and connects people, information and services to meet local needs and build a strong, caring community. For more information, call (334) 264-3335 or visit http://volunteer.handsonriverregion.org/.

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August2016

Calendar/Support Groups This Month Monday, August 1

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents 13th Annual ‘Stars on the Riverfront’ 7:30 p.m. at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. Bring the entire family and a picnic and join the Alabama Dance Theatre as the sun sets on one of Montgomery’s most beautiful venues, the Riverwalk Amphitheater.

These FREE performances are the culmination of ADT’s two-week Summer Dance Seminar and will feature more than 50 dancers. Gates open at 6 p.m. for picnicking. Wind Creek Hospitality “Good to Go” food truck and Kona Ice will be the vendors on site at both performances. Call (334-) 241-2590 or visit www. alabamadancetheatre.com for more info.

Brunswick Zone Summer Bowling Deal Through September 5 Monday-Friday from open-8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from open-4 p.m. Enjoy 3 games per day and shoe rental all summer long. Only $23.95 for kids 15 and under; adult pass: $28.95. Visit bowlsummergames.com for details.

Tuesday, August 2

Dollar Dog Tuesday at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game -- Also August 23 Start time 7:05 p.m. Enjoy dinner and a game with $1 hot dogs! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Old Alabama Town 2sdays -- Tuesdays through August 30 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Keep the summer boredom at bay with OAT 2sdays! Purchase one child’s admission to Old Alabama Town and another gets in FREE!* Bring your children to tour our living history museum and experience an authentic 1850s Alabama summer. While you are here, participate in our new scavenger hunt! The hunt will entertain all ages, and can be turned back in for a prize at the Museum Gift Shop! Visit www.landmarksfoundation.com/visit or call (334) 240-4500.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Disney’s Beauty and the Beast -- Through August 7 Written by Alan Menken, Howard Ashman, Tim Rice and Linda Woolverton. You will be enchanted by this spectacular feast for the senses as the lovely Belle, spellbound Prince, wicked Gaston and delightful Lumiere and Cogsworth front a production filled with spectacular costumes, lavish sets and dazzling production numbers including, “Be Our Guest,” “Gaston” and “Beauty and the Beast.” A magical experience for the whole family to enjoy. Visit www.asf.net or call 2715353.

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.

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

Military Wednesday and Wings Fest at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Start time 7:05 p.m. Fly on over to Riverwalk Stadium to try our limited edition wing flavors at our second to last 2016 Food Fest. For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

students drove themselves). Must be playing basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e.

School ID). $3 for members; $7 for non-members. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org.

Jasmine Hill Gardens and Outdoor Museum Spring Spectacular -- All month Wetumpka. Reproductions of famous statuary from Greek and Roman times, and many flowers you do not usually see in the Deep South. Perennials include delphinium and digitalis, with such familiar annuals as tulips, Japanese cherries and azaleas loaded with blossoms. Open Fridays and Saturdays, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sundays, noon-5 p.m. For more info, visit www. jasminehill.org.

Saturday, August 6

Vicarious Vacations -- Also August 13, 20 & 27 11 a.m. Spend every Saturday of August traveling the

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

Carmike Cinemas Summer Kid Series Also August 4 Both Prattville and Chantilly locations.

Admission is only $4+ tax; includes 16 oz. drink and 46 oz. popcorn with every ticket. Seating is first come, first serve with doors opening at 9:30 a.m.

For details, find us on Facebook.

Wednesday, August 3

Special Guest Author Dr. Craig Darch Visits Pike Road Library 3 p.m. Darch will discuss his book, From Brooklyn to the Olympics: The Hall of Fame Career of Auburn University Coach Mel Rosen. The book follows Coach Rosen’s life from the streets of Brooklyn during the 1930s and 1940s to his selection as head coach of the U.S. track-and-field team for the 1992 Barcelona Summer Olympics. He coached seven Olympians and 143 All-Americans and guided Auburn’s track-and-field team to four SEC indoor championships. Call (334) 244-8679 or visit www.mccpl.lib.al.us/locations_pikeroad.asp for details.

Thursday, August 4

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Presents Big Eyes: a Tim Burton Film 5:30-8 p.m. While the summer exhibition “Women’s Work” celebrates female artists, Big Eyes tells the story of a woman whose husband achieved fame by taking credit for her work. Amy Adams plays Margaret Keane, and Curator of Education Alice Novak will introduce the history and the film with a brief discussion following.

Beverages will be available for purchase. Popcorn will be served. Visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333 for details.

Friday, August 5

Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday Weekend Through August 7 Beginning at 12:01 a.m. (CST) on Friday and ending at midnight on Sunday, Alabama will hold its eleventh annual sales tax holiday giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, and clothing free of state sales or use tax.

Local sales and use tax may apply. For more info, visit www.revenue.alabama.gov/salestax/SalesTaxHol.cfm.

Friday Night Hoops Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with friends for pick-up games of basketball every Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.-midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless

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world in the cool confines of the auditorium in Old Alabama Town. On August 6, John Schneider will present Uganda; on August 13, Steve Brickley & Jim Hodgson will present Amsterdam to Spain; on August 20, Frances Durr will present France & the Caverns of Chaurat; and on August 27, McDowell Crook will present Trekking through Wyoming’s Wilds. Free to the public.

For more info, visit www.landmarksfoundation.com.

14th Annual Youth Fishing Rodeo 7-11 a.m. at Lanark in Millbrook. The rodeo is open to anyone age 15 and under. Admission is free; however, participants are asked to pre-register as space is limited and all youth must be accompanied by an adult.

Each young angler will receive a T-shirt and will be eligible for door prizes. Snacks and drinks available. In addition, each participant may take home five catfish each, but may catch and release all they would like.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own fishing equipment and bait, though a limited number of loaner rods and reels and some bait will be available on site.

Visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) Red Door Theatre Presents Last Train to Nibroc Also August 7 Downtown Union Springs. Written by Arlene Hutton and directed by Fiona Macleod, Last Train to Nibroc is a quintessential love story in its purest form. Set in the 1940s, it tells the story of Raleigh and May – two strangers who meet on a cross-country train during WWII. This funny and touching tale of an unlikely romance follows the two as they search for their own happiness. This play is the prequel to See Rock City presented by the Red Door in August 2013. Call (334) 738-8687 or e-mail conecuhpeople@knology.net.

Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Presents The Oak Ridge Boys 7:30 p.m. For tickets or more info, call (205) 458-8400 or visit www.bjcc.org/.

AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu.

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6 Alabama Nature Center Weekends -Every Saturday Guests are encouraged to arrive by 10 a.m. to enjoy the first of the day’s activities.

Take a look around the the Discovery Hall, enjoy the movie specials in the theater, and explore the trails. Vending machines will provide snacks/drinks. Gift shop will be open. Visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call 1-800-822-9453.

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Farmers Market at The Shoppes at Eastchase

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All Saturdays through October 22 7 a.m.-noon. The grand opening of this 12th annual event will feature all vendors and festivities for the entire family. Shoppers will continue to find unique, local items such as organic produce, meats, milk, goat cheese, natural bath products and hand-made soaps, honey, sprout breads, fruit pastries, birdhouses and nursery plants. For more info, call (334) 279-6046 or visit www.facebook.com/eastchase.

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Happy Healthy Kids Fair Riverchase Galleria in Birmingham from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Free, day-long exhibition where families can learn about health care, nutrition, sports, exercise, volunteer opportunities, education, camps, insurance, and more for children of all ages. Great giveaways and swag bags to the first 200 at the Birmingham Parent booth!

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Michael’s Kids Club -- Also August 13 & 20 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies included. Ages 3 and up. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. August 6 is medals designed

by Sprout ; August 13 is summer memories book; and August 20 is ice cream pencil topper. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/.

Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Today’s project is to build a rolling skateboard pencil case. Once the project is built, your child can decorate it with stickers. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://workshops.homedepot.com/workshops/ kids-workshops.

Prattville Farmers’ Market -- Also August 13, 20 & 27 7 a.m.-noon. Located off Doster Road just a few blocks off Main Street. Its close proximity to Pratt Park with the Splash Pad, children’s play area, tree-lined walk ways, pond, pool and picnic areas make it a wonderful place for a family outing.

Enjoy the park and picnic with fresh produce. Lots of fun events will take place at the Market throughout the season. For more info or to register as a vendor, call (334) 595-0854.

Even though their judgment isn’t always amazing,

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.

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Sunday, August 7

Special Needs Skate -- Also August 21 5:30-7:30 p.m. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. Looneys Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5. For more information contact Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.

Healthcare as amazing as their potential

First Sundays at One -- Also September 4 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/.

470 TAYLOR ROAD, SUITE 210 MONTGOMERY, AL 36117 (334) 293-5033

PHYSICIANS TO CHILDREN

Congratulations Dr. J. Robert Beshear, “Dr. Bob,”on your retirement and 44 years of caring for children.

Tuesday, August 9

VEG OUT Montgomery 6-8 p.m. Join EAT South for its monthly plant-based diet pot luck dinners on the second Tuesday of the month at 6 p.m. Located at the EAT South Farm downtown.

For more information, call 422-9331, e-mail info@eatsouth.org or visit www. facebook.com/VegOutMontgomery.

Wednesday, August 10

Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month, beginning at

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Calendar/Support Groups noon and ending at 1 p.m. 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/.

Friday, August 12

Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also August 26 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area.

For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.

Eat-a-Palooza at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Start time 7:05 p.m. Enjoy a game and all you can eat with any ticket to tonight’s game. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Saturday, August 13

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.

For more info, call (334) 625-2100 or visit www. funinmontgomery.com/.

Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Presents Babypalooza 9:30 a.m. Babypalooza is FREE to attend. For more information, please visit: http://babypaloozatour.com/.

Still Creek Trek at Lanark Ready to cool off in the summer heat? Come out and join us for a trek through still creek as well as take a look at some of the cool things that can only be found in the creek! Be prepared to get wet. Bringing a change of clothes is suggested, shoes or sandals (chacos or tevas) are required, no flip flops. You will not need a life jacket.

Events begin at 10 a.m. For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Elvis: The Early Years 7:30 p.m. This show, starring nationally renowned tribute artist Scot Bruce, traditionally sells out at 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. Tickets range from $35-$60. Visit www.asf. net or call 271-5353.

Sunday, August 14

Michael’s Free Teen Class: Colorful Photo Board 2-3:30 p.m. Students will learn an introduction to mixed media to make a personalized photo board using canvas, paint and yarn. Supplies not included. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/.

Montgomery Biscuits Back-to-School Kids Day Start time 5:35 p.m. Bring the whole family and enjoy that last day of summer freedom at Riverwalk Stadium!

The kids can enjoy their last glimpse of summer freedom playing catch in the field before the game and running the bases after the game! September 4 will also be a Bark in the Park (bring your dogs for free) and Kids Run the Bases Day! For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

MAX Fireworks and Olympics Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Start time 6:35 p.m. Enjoy the Massive MAX Fireworks show, the largest of the month! Also, grab your shorts and your sweatbands as we honor our national athletes competing in the 2016 Olympics. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

African American Genealogy: The Basics and Beyond 9 a.m.-noon; Ala. Dept. of Archives and History.

Gain tools and skills to effectively navigate potential research roadblocks and address challenges specific to African American genealogical research. This workshop is suited for all levels of research experience. Cost is $30 for the public and $20 for Friends of the Alabama Archives members. Spots are limited. To register, call (334) 242-4364 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov/.

Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration required.

For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley. com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com.

Second Saturdays Every second Saturday April through August, you are invited to Riverfront Park for a day full of family-friendly fun! The fun includes live entertainment, interactive activities for kids, various food & drink vendors and adult libations at the SandBAR at the Silos. $1 Admission, 12 and under free. All proceeds benefit local charities.

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

August2016 host Alabama in the Age of Aquarius, a two-day event exploring cultural, political and social themes of the decade after 1965. On Friday, a symposium from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. will feature expert speakers from across the South and fascinating panel discussions on topics ranging from the changing roles of women to African Americans in politics to student protests. For a complete symposium schedule visit www.archives. alabama.gov. Cost to attend is $40 for the general public, $25 for Friends of the Alabama Archives, and $10 for students. Admission price includes lunch.

Register online or call (334) 242-4364. On Saturday, come dressed in your retro best for a 1970s family fun day from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Archives. Admission is FREE. The day will feature family-friendly games, crafts, a photo booth, and a dance party. At noon, the 2013 documentary Muscle Shoals will be screened in the Archives’ auditorium followed by a discussion with Muscle Shoals Swampette Judy Hood and musician Spooner Oldham.

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents The Kentucky Headhunters 8:30 p.m. Tickets begin at $15. Visit www.mpaconline. org or call (334) 481-5100.

Buckmasters Expo -- Through August 21 Montgomery Convention Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street. Shop for hunting bargains from more than 300 exhibitors and vendors who are all a part of the biggest hunting sale ever! Experts from top manufacturers will be manning booths to answer all your questions.

Watch the nation’s best archers compete in the Top Bow World championship. Bring your kids to the Young Bucks area for games, hunting-related activities, mascots Bucky and Droptine, Balloon Man and much more. Admittance to the expo is free with a donation of a canned good per person. The expo is open from 3-9 p.m. on Friday, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m.5 p.m. on Sunday. For more info, call (334) 215-3337 or visit www.buckmasters.com/Resources/Expo.

Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored

by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “The Penalty for Success: My Father was Lynched in Lowndes County, Alabama,” presented by Josephine B. McCall. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.

Capri Theatre Presents Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory 7:30 p.m. This is the classic featuring Gene Wilder. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org/.

Friday, August 19

Alabama Archives Hosts Alabama In The Age Of Aquarius -- Also August 20 The Ala. Dept. of Archives and History (ADAH) will

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Wonderfully Made Seminars for Women Noon-1 p.m. MCI Auditorium on the Campus of Baptist South. This month’s speakers will be Dr. Nziavake Masimasi, Internal Medicine, and Zahra Daftarian, CRNP. Lunch is provided. Space is limited. Please register if you plan to attend by calling (334) 273-4444.

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Saturday, August 20

Buckmasters Presents Charlie Daniels Band 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. A talented and showy fiddler, Charlie Daniels and his band fuse hardcore country with a hard-edged Southern rock, boogie, and blues. Hits include “Devil Went Down to Georgia” and “The Legend of Wooley Swamp.” Tickets begin at $35. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

Michael McDonald Concert Fundraiser for the Alabama Shakespeare Festival 8 p.m. Front row balcony seats are $129 each and all other balcony seats are $99 each. Please contact the ASF Box Office at 271-5353 or e-mail boxoffice@asf.net for more information on how to purchase sponsor level tickets on the floor.

GO Fishing (Catch & Release) at Lanark Get Outdoors and fish for catfish and bream in one of ANC’s bountiful ponds. From bass to catfish, the ponds are stocked and ready for your line! A limited number of fishing poles will be available for $2 a day as well as a limited amount of bait for a small fee. G ​ uests are encouraged to arrive early, stroll through the Discovery Hall, watch a movie, enjoy some catch & release fish-

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ing, bring a picnic lunch, and even take a self-guided hike on the trails. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/.

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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. Featured speaker will be Marion Baab of the Landmarks Foundation, about the many programs and events they offer. She will share information about Old Alabama Town, a living history district in downtown Montgomery. Lunch cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, August 22, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net.

Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com.

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents Barefoot in the Park -- Through September 11 Written by Neil Simon, directed by Blair Dyson. This well-known, Tony Award-nominated play focuses on newlyweds Paul and Corie Bratter who are as different as night and day. While Corie is quirky and fun loving, Paul is a staid and unadventurous attorney. Corie just wants Paul to be a little more spontaneous; running “barefoot in the park” would be a start... Tickets can be purchased in advance for $10 or for $12 at the door.

Call (334) 595-0854 or visit wobt.prattvilleal.gov.

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Three Dog Night 7:30 p.m. Three Dog Night scored a succession of 21 hit singles, including eleven Top Tens, and twelve consecutive gold albums from 1969 to 1975, thanks to the slick, sometimes soulful vocal harmonies and an excellent ear for quality material. Hits include “Jeremiah Was a Bull Frog” and “Celebrate.” Tickets begin at $35. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center Presents the Rick and Bubba Outdoor Expo -- Through August 28 Starts at 5 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. Saturday; and noon Sunday. Price: adults (Ages 13 +) $10. Kids 12 and under: free. For more info, visit rickandbubbaoutdoorexpo.com

Saturday, August 27

Canoeing and Kayaking at Lanark Join us for some time on the water, where 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!

Events begin at 10 a.m. For more info, visit www. alabamawildlife.org/.

Montgomery Dragon Boat Race & Festival 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Almost 80 teams will converge downtown at the beautiful Riverfront Park to paddle and party on Race Day in the pursuit of the Grand Championship Trophy while supporting the missions of our two local beneficiaries, Bridge Builders Alabama and Rebuilding Together Central Alabama. The Riverfront Park will be alive with music, entertainment, and more than 30 local vendors, artists, and exhibitors while teams compete on the water in view of more than 8,000 spectators!

For more info, call (334) 625-9411 or visit montgomerydragonboat.org/.

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Calendar/Support Groups Saturday, September 10

Black Jacket Symphony Presents The Eagles “Hotel California” 8 p.m. at the 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 $30. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

“Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park.

Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333.

Brain Pump is a group exercise class, targeting children 4-12 years old. The class is the collaboration of a physical therapist and a kinesiology professor combining traditional therapy and exercise concepts with the latest cutting edge research on movement and the brain. This is all done in a fun, energetic setting, that seems much more like playing than exercising. Brain Pump is taught at Metro Fitness on Saturdays from 1111:45 a.m. Contact Tiffany Higginbotham at Body Logic PT & Wellness (334-380-5920) for more info.

Celtic Dance Classes Fridays at Montgomery Ballet from 4-5 p.m. We welcome boys and girls ages 6 to adult. Call Amanda at (706) 457-9254 or e-mail Celtic.traditions@gmail.com for more info.

Magical Creatures Educational Program at the Montgomery Zoo 10 a.m.-noon. Meet some of the magical animals that are featured in movies like Harry Potter and The Hobbit. You will get a chance to meet them up close, learn about them in their habitats, and take home some special prizes for yourself. Make new discoveries and new friends. Geared for boys and girls, aged 4-10 years old. Advanced reservations are required.

Event 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. Register online or at the Montgomery Zoo’s Admission office. For more info, call (334) 240-4909 or e-mail jhutcheson@montgomeryal.gov.

Ongoing

Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research.

In Grandma’s Attic, kids can try on clothes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Also visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities to do at home. In addition, there are FREE, guided tours of the Museum of Alabama EVERY Saturday at 1 p.m. Follow us on Facebook, call 242-4435 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov.

Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs meeting on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/ Drawing. Each club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel.

First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building). Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information.

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

For more info, call 240-4333.

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

Central Alabama Contra Dancers Everyone, school-age through adult, is invited for a little exercise and a lot of fun. Singles, couples and entire families are welcome. All levels of experience - including no experience. Dancing is on 1st and 3rd Fridays from 7-9 p.m. at the MASDA building, 2200 Popular St. For more info, visit www.contralines.com or email info@contralines.com.

The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 3241406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com.

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

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

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

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

First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the Civil War and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.org.

Friday Night Hoops Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must play basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for nonmembers. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org.

Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens,

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August2016 Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-2409452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history.

In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka. al.us/features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org).

W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. at 4 p.m., Sun. at 2 p.m. and first & third Saturdays at 2 p.m. Admission $6.50/person, children under 5 free, seniors $5.50/ person. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 625-4799 or visit http://www.troy.edu/planetarium/.

Harriott II Riverboat Cruises Seasonal. Typical hours are 6:30-9 p.m. Live entertainment, cash bar and concessions available. For more info and available dates, visit www.funinmontgomery. com, call (334) 625-2100 or visit the Riverwalk Box Office at 200 Coosa Street.

Montgomery Women’s Newcomers Group: Moving On After Moving In Thursdays from 9:15-11 a.m. beginning September 15. St. James UMC Cafe, Vaughn Rd. Childcare available. For more info, please contact pam.zavada@gmail. com or (256) 541-7888.

Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum 468 South Perry Street. Learn how 21 young people helped change our nation’s history using nonviolent protest. Black and white, male and female, none of them were older than 21. Hours are Tuesday-Saturday, noon -4 p.m. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or call (334) 242-3184.

MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free.

Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery.

For info, call 265-1867 or visit www.bamabeef.org.

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

Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free.

301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500 or vist www.landmarksfoundation.com/.

Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area and help new residents do the same. For information on meetings and locations, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 356-9897 or nschrull@knology.net.

Prattville Movie Club (for Teens) Meeting twice a month on Fridays, current Prattville Movie Club members range from 14-18 years old and meet at the Carmike Promenade 12 on Cobbs Ford Road. There are no GPA requirements and no class requirements. We are friends who enjoy moviegoing and want to meet others who also enjoy watching movies.

For more info, call (334) 224-7811 or e-mail brandonperdue12@gmail.com.

Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s

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Wing: adults: $14, children $10. For more info, call 241-8615 or visit www.troy.edu/rosaparks/.

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 10 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

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YMCA 7 to 11 Club Calling all children ages 7 to 11 for this fun, free event.

While Mom and Dad are working out, join us for games, arts & crafts, service projects and more. Earn special beads for participation and try to break records for superior achievements. Monthly special events will be hosted as well. Check with your YMCA center or visit ymcamontgomery.org for more details.

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Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info.

Caring For Your Newborn This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Partners are encouraged to attend. $20 fee per couple. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year at Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register.

Childbirth Preparation Class Comprehensive four-week evening series covers all aspects of the labor and delivery experience, admission process, medication and anesthesia options including epidurals, Caesarean sections, coping and comfort measures including breathing and relaxation techniques. Postpartum care and newborn characteristics are included. A maternity area tour of Baptist Medical Center East is also included as a part of this class. All of our classes are taught by registered nurses certified in childbirth education. This class is $60 per couple.

Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. iA 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required.

Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp Fast-paced Saturday class including the same information offered in our weekly series in a compressed format. Maternity area tour of Baptist Medical Center East is also included as a part of this class. Fee is $60 per couple and includes 2 box lunches. Space is limited.

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. 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.

F o r E v E r y G E n E r at i o n .

Prattville First United Methodist Church • 100 E. 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 TRADITIO NAL W O RSH IP 8: 30 AM & 11: 00 A M SUNDAY SCH O O L 9: 45 AM TH E W ELL 11: 00 AM

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

Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park.

Call 213-6360 for more information.

Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info.

Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.

Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org.

Infant Safety/CPR Class Includes care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands-on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. Class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors, but this is not a certification class. $10 fee 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.

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 well-

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

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known pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood.

Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL.

Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers. For more info, call (334) 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and (334) 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital.

Prenatal Breastfeeding Class Includes 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.

Partners are encouraged to participate in this class. $20 per couple. 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.

Jackson Hospital Animal Therapy Program Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly.

For more information, please call 293-8894.

Sibling Preparation Class One-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8.

They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East.

Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org.

Slow Flow Yoga Classes are held at Old Alabama Town on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:30-12:15, and 12:30-1:15. Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to Molton South Building. Enter through the Rose House, located on Columbus St. between N. Hull and Decatur. Parking is available along Decatur and N. Hull. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days). Monthly unlimited: $65.

Mat rental: $1. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@icloud.com.

Services

American Cancer Society Seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more info, or to volunteer, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345.

Baptist Hospice Volunteers There are many ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add to our program.

Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team.

Baptist Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week.

For more info, call 286-2977.

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Jackson Hospital Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital information desk volunteers are needed for the evening shift, 5-8:30 p.m., Monday through Friday. Volunteers must be friendly and eager to offer information to those visiting the hospital. With this position, a free meal will be given as well as a parking spot next to the lobby. Volunteers must be at least 18 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. Call 293-8967 or visit www.jackson.org/patients_ volunteers.html.

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Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on the third floor of the Goode Medical Building to monitor those who are suffering from sleep disorders. For more information, contact your physician or the Sleep Center at 293-8168.

River Region Association of Doulas Doulas Traci Weafer, Rebekah Hawkins and Christina Clark provide prenatal counseling, labor and postpartum doula services, breastfeeding education, events and support groups. Contact rradoulas@gmail.com or visit rradoulas.weebly.com or https://www.facebook. com/RRADoulas/.

Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call Monica Russell at 409-9477 or the church office at 272-8622. Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare, children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail htaylor@childrensaid.org.

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 lifelong adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Audrey Derevenko at (205) 943-5343 or e-mail adereven@childrensaid.org.

Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and gettogethers to talk about raising our children from China.

If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

Cancer Support

American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore & Autauga Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345.

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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-ACS-2345 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) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org.

Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-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 Diemayer at 467-4578.

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Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends.

For more info, call 272-8622 or e-mail womenofhope@ charter.net.

Divorce Support

DivorceCare meets Tuesdays beginning May 3 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Join us for support and guidance as you work through the issues, pain and pressures surrounding divorce. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@ frazerumc.org for more info.

DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.

DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125.

“Never Go Back” meets at Frazer UMC beginning May 3. Are you stuck in a pattern of going back to the same relationships or situations hoping for or expecting different results? In this new study, you will recognize and truly change those life patterns that hold you back and keep you from your goals, so you will never go back. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info.

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Calendar/Support Groups 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.

Gambling Support

Gamblers Anonymous meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 7 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 U.S. Hwy. 231 (Directly across from the Winn-Dixie shopping center), Wetumpka. Call (334) 567-7534.

Sundays @ 5 p.m., Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery.

Mondays @ 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery.

Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@aol.com for more info.

“Big Leap!”

Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children ages 7-11 who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. Through music, art, and play we meet your child or grandchild on their level. We encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 2796677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 2796677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721.

“Connect,” Fridays at 11 a.m., biweekly, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is for those who have already walked through the initial grieving process but still desire to connect with others who share similar experiences. This group will allow you to meet new people, stay active in the community, and look ahead to a bright future. We will share lunch, visit museums, volunteer, attend movies, and participate in area events. This group is ongoing and does not have a participation limit. For more info, call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW. Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 272-8622 for more info.

GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

non-denominational 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.

GriefShare, Hospice of Montgomery’s office located at 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. Meets Wednesdays from noon-1 p.m. through March. This FREE group is for individuals, families and caregivers in the River Region. Registration required to attend. For more information or to register, please contact Candace Fales at 279-6677 or cfales@hospiceofmontgomery.org.

Grieving With Hope, St. Mark UMC, meeting weekly on Tuesdays from 1-2 p.m. The group offers a place to share, care and heal from the losses of life. Facilitated

by Dr. Lennie Howard and Marie Parma. Contact the church at 272-0009.

Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers. Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www. honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202.

Mourning to Morning is a Christian growth group for mothers who have lost a child, from before birth through adulthood. We normally meet the last Thursday night of each month at Grace Baptist Church in Wetumpka, 304 Old Montgomery Highway. For more info, contact Alice Scarborough at (334) 462-4775 or Gwen Ellis at (334) 567-8754 or e-mail us at mourningtomorning@gmail.com. Join us on Facebook--Mourning to Morning Group.

Homeschool Support

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

Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Caregivers Support Group meets 1st Thursdays from 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call 272-8622.

The Renaissance Spirit Group (an adult day group for Alzheimer’s patients in their early to middle stages) meets each Thursday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. in Room 3101 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Registration is required. For more info, contact Nancy McLain at (334) 233-2139.

Cardiolife, a FREE educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance.

Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on a weekly basis. Meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. You will experience hope and strength for each day. “Celebrate Recovery” is led by Jeff McFarland. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.

Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12-step spiritual recovery program for overcoming

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August2016 addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @ 6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information.

Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase).

Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www.glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page.

Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info.

NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for details.

OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. Meetings are held at 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for more info.

Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 324-9568 or Carol at 467-5742.

Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets on 4th Thursdays at 6 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622.

Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more info, contact Holli at (334) 290-0646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www. ahif.org.

Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/ OIF Veterans. For more info, contact LaQuana Edwards, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 727-0550 ext. 5350.

Parent Support

D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. 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 CityCounty Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more info, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596.

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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. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery.AL@gmail.com or visit http://www.llli.org/groups/@llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook.

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Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of children ages birth-5 years at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc.org for more information.

Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting.

Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919.

The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https://sites.google. com/site/montgomerymultiples/ home.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:30-11:30 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.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins moth-

August2016 ers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail vaughnforestmops@gmail.com or visit http:// vfcmops.weebly.com/.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Redland Baptist Church in Wetumpka. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. during the school year. We also have scheduled play dates and mom’s nights out. Moms get together to share food, laugh, and hear inspiring speakers. While moms are in a MOPS meeting, their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. For more info, call (334) 567-8649 or visit www.mops.org/redlandmops.

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 Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage.

Contact Melissa at (205) 913-2667 for more information.

Single Parents Support

Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800.

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Calendar/Support Groups Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info.

Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby.

Call 272-8622 for more info.

SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget.

TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided.

For reservations, call 272-8622.

Special Needs Support

Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs.

Participation is free. 2016 pageant date TBA. Visit www. alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook!

Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.).

Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo. com for more info.

Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided.

Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information.

Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@ gmail.com for more info.

Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting.

For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net.

River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum. We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info, e-mail LyraStephens@yahoo.com.

Special Needs Skate, Looney’s Super Skate, 3541 McGehee Rd. in Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Sundays of every month. 5:30-7:30 p.m. All ages welcome. Sensory sensitive. Volunteers available for assistance. $5 admission. For more info, e-mail Lyrastephens@yahoo.com.

August2016 August 2 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “Career Planning” explores various employment choices and the basic skills expected by potential employers.

August 3 from 1-3 p.m.: “Anger Management” provides participants with information on how to detect anger triggers and ways to control their reactions to anger.

August 4 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “Keep it Safe” teaches participants how to protect their finances and identity.

August 9 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “Resume’ Writing” teaches participants how to compose a resume’ based on the type of employment they are seeking.

August 16 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “Interview Skills” prepares participants for the steps to take before, during and after an interview for the best possible opportunity of obtaining employment.

August 18 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “To Your Credit” teaches participants how to read a credit report, and how to build and/or repair their credit history.

August 23 from 1-2:30 p.m.: “Work Ethics” instructs participants on how to obtain a high standard of conduct at work for job retention and promotion.

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.

Teens/Families Support

Family Guidance Center of Alabama’s August Schedule is below. Call 270-4100 for more information about any of these classes:

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Business Card Directory

Fall Registration August 8 & 9 from 4-7 pm

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Number ONE Reason To Advertise...WOMEN! Montgomery Parents I August 2016

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

Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name.

First UMC, Montgomery, 37

My Kids Attic Consignment Sale, 19

First UMC, Prattville, 83

New Park, 41

Fleming’s Martial Arts, 60

OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 67

Frazer Memorial Christian Kindergarten, 85

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 56

Academy of Dance, Tammy’s, 61

Frazer Memorial UMC, 7

Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 14

Adventure Sports II, 54

Grand Reserve at Pike Road, 14

Professional Pediatrics, 12

Alabama Christian Academy, 28

Greengate School, 45

Pump It Up Party, 81

AL Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front

Health Services, Inc., 83

P’zazz Art Studio, 58

Alabama Dance Theatre, 55

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 20

River Region Straw, 70

Alabama Partnership with Children, 2

Hooper Academy, 67

Riverview Camp for Girls, 76

AL School of Math & Science, Inside Back

Hudson Huffman, 90

R.O.C.K., 72

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 77

Inflatables of Montgomery, 43

Rockin’ Jump, 69

ASKIN/Synergy House, 90

Interscapes, Inc., 50

Rolling Video Games of AL, 63

AUM Early Childhood Center, 8

Jackson Hospital, 3

Saint James School, 1

Baptist Health, 31

Kids Carousel, 21

Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 4

Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 70

Kindermusik of Montgomery @ FBC, 65

Shade Tree Riding Stables, 61

Bradford Health Services, 47

Kingry Orthodontics, 21

Smiles Galore Parties, 38

Bricks 4 Kids, 90

Kumon, 35

Spacewalker, The, 19

Chapman Orthodontics, 81

Laura’s School of Dance, 59

Spotless Cleaning Services, 11

Children’s Clothing Exchange, 27

Learning Tree Child Care, 36

Success Unlimited Academy, 26

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 79

Legacy Early Learning Center, 71

Sylvan Learning Center, 58

Churchill Academy, 18, 88

Lori Mercer Photography, 63

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 71

Dance Generation, 53

Macon East Academy, 39

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Dentistry for Children, 38

MANE, 60

The Orchards at Pike Road, 22

Doodlebugs, 30

Mathnasium, 62

Tiffany’s Music Conservatory, 90

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 23

MEOW Academy, 57

Tonya Speed Dance Connection, 90

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 30

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 43

Tooth Buds, 29

E & S Hobbies, 90

Montessori @ Mulberry, 17

Trinity Presbyterian School, 13

Eastdale Mall, 15

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 24

Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 74

Eastern Oaks Church, 9

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 59

United Gymstars & Cheer, 57

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 87

Montg. Parents Special Needs Expo, 89

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 74

Evangel Christian Academy, 75

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 34

Vaughn Road Preschool, 64

Family Guidance Center, 51, 73

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 49

Vishnu Dental, 65

FC Montgomery Soccer Academy, 55

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 90

Walnut Hill Party Venue, 23

First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 33

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 25

Wetumpka Depot Players, 61

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Ghostbusters

Lights Out

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B Language: CAlcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated Ghostbusters PG for supernatural action and crude humor.

As Dr. Erin Gilbert (Kristen Wiig) anxiously awaits the news that she has been granted tenure at the prestigious university where she teaches, she becomes haunted by her past in the form of a book she co-wrote early in her career. Knowing “real scientists” don’t believe in the super natural, Dr. Gilbert seeks out her former friend, paranormal researcher Abby Yates (Melissa McCarthy), in an attempt to keep the book quiet before her career is ruined. Despite their icy reunion, the two past pals, along with engineer Jillian Holtzmann (Kate McKinnon), agree to check out the sighting of an apparition in the historic Aldridge Mansion in Manhattan. There the three brave investigators see the spirit of the dead woman, who seems peaceful and beautiful. But the poltergeist quickly shows her true colors and spews green, slimy ectoplasm all over Erin. That is all it takes to pull the serious scientist back into the world of paranormal exploration and a new squad of Ghostbusters is born.

The cast is rounded off by Leslie Jones as sassy Patty Tolan, who joins the team, bringing with her all the knowledge she has of New York’s history. Chris Hemsworth is a delight as Kevin, the eye candy/ditsy receptionist. The young man is maddeningly inept, yet because he is so pretty he gets the job. The gang even comes with an updated version of the iconic Ghostbusters’ mode of transportation: a converted funeral hearse called the Ecto-1.

Although the movie has its fair share of supernatural foes, the main antagonist is a human. Disgruntled hotel employee Rowan North (Neil Casey) is ready to exact revenge on the world as payback for years of being bullied. He has devised a way to unleash an army of evil spirits to take down the Big Apple.

Some of the apparitions are cartoonish in appearance, like Slimer and the Stay-Puff Marshmallow Man who are recognizable from the original movie. Others border on ghoulish and demonic. Their bony faces and jagged teeth seem to jump out at the audience and will certainly be frightening for young children.

The movie touches on the battle for acceptance for who we are, and not what the world says we should be. As well, it is refreshing to see the female characters in this film portrayed in a positive light. Instead of constantly using curse words and vulgarity, these women are, for the most part, intelligent and articulate. Plus, this movie is surprisingly free of sexual innuendo and suggestive language. Very reminiscent of the 1986 Ghostbusters movie, this film is filled with witty rapport and some tipping of the hat to the original plot and characters. Annie Potts, Bill Murray, Dan Ackroyd, Ernie Hudson and Sigourney Weaver each have cameos so make sure you stay to the very end.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: CSexual Content: BLanguage: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA has rated Lights Out PG13 for terror throughout, violence including disturbing images, some thematic material and brief drug content.

How comfortable are you in the dark? Martin (Gabriel Bateman) doesn’t feel at all at ease when the lights go dim. The young boy hasn’t slept for days and while his dad (Billy Burke) is working late at the warehouse, the child is becoming increasingly concerned for his mother Sophie (Maria Bello). She is off her meds and talking to herself again.

After calling his father to beg his quick return home, a nervous Martin decides to go to his mother’s bedroom. As he approaches, the youngster can hear her speaking to someone -- but no one that he can see. Martin becomes visibly anxious as he peers past his mom and notes she is gazing at an open, dark closet. Sophie asks if they are keeping him awake, which startles him more.

Martin reluctantly heads back to his room, yet as he turns back to say goodnight, he sees a sinister, shadowy figure creep into the top corner of the door frame. Terrified, he runs as fast as he can to his bedroom and locks himself in.

As the panic stricken boy sits in his bed with the covers pulled up to his chin, he sees the doorknob start to rattle and hears a sickening scratching sound from the other side of his wooden door. Is it real? Or just his imagination?

Soon after, Martin’s estranged step-sister, Rebecca (Teresa Palmer) is called by school administrators to pick her brother up because he has fallen asleep in class. When no one can reach mom, Rebecca tries to comfort her sibling by telling him that he is just having bad dreams. It used to happen to her before she left home. However, when Martin reveals the reason for his insomnia, the young woman understands what has been plaguing her little brother: Diana -- a menacing personage that she too has had experiences with.

This movie employs a lot of the typical tactics for ensuring a nerve wracking experience for the audience. Jump scares, squeaky floors, loud music, screams and the obscure images are just a few example of what viewers should expect. Other concerns for families include an implied sexual relationship between an unmarried couple, and infrequent use of moderate language. While the weapon of choice in this movie is simply light, there is still a good deal of violence.

Lights Out concisely tells it story (it is only 81 minutes long) without too many graphic details, which parents of older teens may appreciate. I loved that the screenplay allows horror fans to be scared without all of the unnecessary profanity and nudity that sometimes accompanies this genre. Even though the film tends to follow the expected formula, it keeps the audience truly engaged.

What Parents need to know about Ghostbusters...

What Parents need to know about Lights Out...

Violence: Frequent scenes depict ghosts attacking people, resulting in many being thrown, choked, hit and subjected to other bodily harm. Humans try to eliminate the paranormal beings using fantastical “ray gun” weapons. A character is electrocuted. In two instances ghosts inhabit bodies of the living -one is shown in contorted positions with a head that turns completely around.

Some of the specters may be frightening to young audiences -- one appears as a large dragon-type bird that can fly, another is a human that spews ectoplasm (a slimly substance), while others are more cartoon-like.

Sexual Content: The screenplay includes a few instances of brief, veiled sexual innuendo, crude content, scatological remarks and a flatulence joke.

Language: Infrequent use of scatological slang, profanity, cursing and vulgar expressions. As well, infrequent terms of Christian deity are used as expletives.

Alcohol / Drug Use: Brief social drinking is seen.

Montgomery Parents I August 2016

Violence: A character is seen holding a gun to the head and pulls the trigger; the film cuts immediately at the sound of the shot. A character is distantly seen dead on the floor; it’s not clear if the body is dismembered or beaten, but it is obviously covered in blood. Characters, including a child, are dragged across floors, grabbed from the ceiling or thrown at walls by a mysterious entity.

Characters repeatedly shoot a metaphysical being. Many scenes feature “jump” moments through the use of startling images and loud music cues.

Sexual Content: A male character asks if he can stay with a woman overnight. She eventually asks him to leave. Embracing and kissing are seen.

Language: Infrequent profanities include scatological slang and other mild vulgar expressions. A term of Christian deity is used as an expletive.

Alcohol / Drug Use: A hookah pipe is briefly seen on a side table. Beer in a fridge is shown.

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ALABAMA’S HIGH SCHOOL Change your life forever! 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.

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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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A C C E P T A N C E S

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86% of the 69 member Class of 2016 received merit-based scholarships totaling over $9.5 million.

WITH A REMARKABLE EDUCATION, THE OPPORTUNITIES ARE ENDLESS. Members of the Class of 2016 were admitted to these colleges and universities.

Arizona State University

Loyola University New Orleans

University of Arkansas

Auburn University

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University of California, Berkeley

Auburn University at Montgomery

Mississippi State University

University of California, Los Angeles

Belhaven University

North Carolina State University

University of Denver

Belmont University

Northwestern University

University of Florida

Berry College

Ohio State University

University of Georgia

Birmingham-Southern College

Oklahoma State University

Centre College

Pace University

University of Illinois at Urbana– Champaign

Clemson University

Pepperdine University

College of Charleston

Prairie View A&M University

College of William & Mary

Purdue University

Eckerd College

Rhodes College

Emory University

Samford University

Faulkner University

Sewanee: The University of the South

Florida State University

University of Kentucky University of Massachusetts Boston University of Michigan University of Minnesota University of Mississippi University of Montevallo University of North Carolina at Asheville

Southern Methodist University

Furman University

University of Pittsburgh

Spelman College

George Mason University

University of Richmond

Spring Hill College

Georgia Institute of Technology

University of St. Andrews

St. John’s University

Hampden-Sydney College

University of South Alabama

Syracuse University

Hampton University

University of South Carolina

Texas A&M University

Harding University

University of South Florida

Texas Christian University

Hillsdale College

University of Virginia

Troy University

Hofstra University

University of West Florida

Tulane University

Hollins University

Vanderbilt University

United States Air Force Academy

Howard University

Washington & Lee University

United States Military Academy

Huntingdon College Indiana University Bloomington Jacksonville State University

Washington University in St. Louis

United States Naval Academy

Westmont College

University of Alabama

Wofford College

University of Alabama at Birmingham

Kenyon College Lee University

Xavier University of Louisiana

University of Alabama in Huntsville

Louisiana State University

Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y T h e

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o f

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Contact Susannah Cleveland, Director of Admissions admissions@montgomeryacademy.org • 334.272.8210 Financial Aid Available

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