Montgomery Parents July 2018 by KeepSharing

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The Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS) is a joint research project between the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the Alabama Department of Public Health. Its purpose is to determine why some babies are born healthy and others are not in order to aid in the development and assessment of programs designed to identify high-risk pregnancies and reduce adverse pregnancy outcomes. New mothers are randomly chosen from the state birth registry to participate in PRAMS. Surveys may be returned by mail or completed over the phone. Let your voice be heard!

“Happy to be part of this survey.”

“Thank you for checking on us!”

Actual comments from survey responses.

Moms who complete the PRAMS survey receive their choice of a cooler bag, diapers, or manicure set! Responses are kept confidential to the extent of the law. For more information, please call us at 334-206-2923 or go to alabamapublichealth.gov/PRAMS ADPH does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender, age, religion, disability, genetic information, and other federal, state, or agency regulations and policies. Inquiries regarding nondiscrimination policies may be directed to Civil Rights Coordinator: ADPH CRC, RSA Tower, 201 Monroe Street, Suite 1010, Montgomery, AL 36104, Tel. 334-206-5226, o r email crcomplaints@adph.state.al.us.

Oh, The Places They Are Going! THE SAINT JAMES SCHOOL CLASS OF 2018 EARNED OVER $6.4 MILLION IN COLLEGE SCHOLARSHIPS! The graduates have committed to some of the finest and most selective universities and colleges in the U.S. and the world. These Saint James seniors embody the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission and philosophy of educating the whole child, including academics, arts, and athletics. Two National Merit Finalists, One National Merit Commended Student, Five Advanced Placement Scholars, a Two-Title State Forensics Champion & Speaker of the Year, District & State Math Champions, Robotics Finalists, Two Regional Scholastic Silver Key Winners, Volleyball State Champions, Girls All Metro Basketball Player of the Year, Boys All Metro Basketball Player of the Year, 4A Region Runner-up Football Team (with the most wins for a senior class and the most points in a season in school history), Girls Basketball 4A State Final Four Participant, Boys Basketball 4A Area 4 Tournament Champions and Regional Participant, and so much more!

Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re off and away! With a firm foundation under their feet. And ready for any challenge they meet. With great promise for the future, we congratulate the Saint James Class of 2018!

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HOME TO EAST MONTGOMERY Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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July2018

Columns

Volume 23 Number 7

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Save the Day with a Superhero Party

Kids will love these superhero crafts, games and other ideas!

76 66

Fun Birthday Parties for Busy Parents

Party places kids will love that make planning easy for you.

14 Montgomery Education Matters by Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Interim Superintendent

38 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee

46 Elmore Education Matters

72 80 74

by Superintendent Richard Dennis

54 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

60 Parenting Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Teens Mark Gregston

Birthday Party Guide All the local resources you need for their big day.

When Your Child Throws a Tantrum Seven things to remember.

76 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

82 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover Benjamin Brock Williams celebrated his 2nd birthday on June 25. His

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces

proud parents are Buck and Celia Williams of Pike County. Brock attends Alfa Child Care & Development in Montgomery. He loves singing and dancing, riding in golf carts and, most obviously, everything Toy Story!

16 School Bits 83 Calendar/Support Groups 92 Mom to Mom www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Editor’sNote The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

What kind of “birthday party parent” are you? Do you go all out with an elaborate theme consisting of countless decorations and a large guest list? Or do you like to keep it low key with just a couple of your child’s closest friends, one activity and some ice cream afterward? Many of us probably fall somewhere in between. Wherever you are on the spectrum of party planning for your kiddos, our Big Birthday Issue is here for you! First, you’ll want to check out two helpful features to get your juices flowing for your upcoming year of parties. Pam Molnar walks you through a creative party plan if you have kids obsessed with Batman, Spider-Man, Wonder Woman and the others who are ruling today’s movie screens! Save the Day with a Superhero Party Plan shares ideas for crafts, games and even what to put in the goody bags for your guests. If you can’t afford the time and energy for a big party at home, Kimberly Blaker offers plenty of alternatives in Fun Birthday Parties for Busy Parents. She discusses the most kid-popular places for a party, plus tips to keep the day as low stress as possible for all involved. Flip the page and you’ve landed on our Birthday Party Guide, which is full of resources in the River Region to help with all your party planning needs. Our advertisers are highlighted in the guide and would love to serve you! From cakes to rentals to the best local places to party, you are sure to find what you need for everyone in the family. Not every day is a party when you’re a parent, so we want to make sure we always provide articles to help moms and dads through the difficult areas too. Be sure to check out Parenting Today’s Teens where Mark Gregston discusses the importance of entering your teen’s cultural arena. Sara Lyons offers 7 Things to Remember When Your Child Throws a Tantrum for those of us still working with younger ones on how to communicate and handle emotions. And our Common Sense Media column shares advice for raising little book lovers in a screen-filled world. Have a Happy 4th...and thank you to all of the men and women who serve and sacrifice so that our families can be free and thrive! Stay cool until next month when we send you “Back to School” with articles to get the year started off right, plus our After School Activities Guide.

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 Kimberly Blaker Richard Dennis Mark Gregston Dr. Charles Ledbetter Sara Lyons Pam Molnar Dr. Ann Roy Moore John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Allen White, M.D.

Cover Photography Maria Wiggins www.lolafineartphotography.com

Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com

Associate Publisher Gena Hill Digital Manager Scott Davis Advertising Opportunities Stephanie Parsons, VP of Client Services (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com

Ad Design Tim Welch

DeAnne

Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell Member

deanne@montgomeryparents.com Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2018 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in Montgomery Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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Red Is Not . r o l o C r u o Y Put On Your Sunscreen! • Use sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher! • Make sure your sunscreen has both UVA and UVB protection. • Apply sunscreen 20-30 minutes before going outside and remember to reapply after swimming or sweating. • Wear a hat with a wide brim to protect your face, head, ears and neck. • Wear sunglasses that are made to block 100% of UVA and UVB rays.

• Limit exposure to the sun during the hours of 10 am to 4 pm, when UV rays are most intense. • Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. • One person dies of melanoma every hour. • One blistering sunburn in childhood can double your chances of developing melanoma.

Alabama Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition facebook.com/ALCompCancerCoalition

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Should Our Child Repeat Kindergarten? Q: Even though he had an early-August birthday, we started our son in Kindergarten this past Fall at a private Christian school. They did some testing prior to the start of the school year and told us they thought he would do okay. Now, however, they are telling us that he is “somewhat immature” and would probably benefit from another year in Kindergarten. We’re upset that they accepted him in the first place, but also feel that some of his problems were due to a young and relatively inexperienced teacher. We’re reluctant to hold him back out of concern that doing so may contribute to a negative self-image. Any thoughts? A: I’d be inclined to cut the school some slack. I can’t imagine that they would have accepted him already knowing he was at high risk of having to repeat. In all likelihood, they simply gave him the benefit of doubt, which I recommend you return to them.

We’d love to make going there even better!

I’m not a fan of the rather widespread practice of postponing school entrance for late-birthday boys. In my estimation, the practice is counterproductive. If starting school is postponed for boys with birthdays after, say, June 1, “immature” boys suddenly become those with birthdays after March 1. Backing up the “not quite ready” date could go on forever. Furthermore, while delaying school entrance may benefit some late-birthday kids, it will be a disservice to others. One’s birthday is not necessarily a reliable indicator of immaturity. You may be right that the primary problem is an inexperienced teacher who is not skilled at “herding cats.” Insecurity concerning her classroom authority will certainly compound any immaturity problems, especially with typically highly-active boys. That is, however, water under the proverbial bridge. It may be that your son would not have “made the grade” even with a very experienced teacher.

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

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All things considered, I would lean strongly toward accepting the school’s recommendation. My only caveat is that on the assumption that your son’s problems were exacerbated by an inexperienced teacher, you definitely do not want him with her again next year. If the school he’s attending has only one Kindergarten teacher, then I’d recommend that he repeat at another school. That may be a hassle, but it’s worth whatever hassle may be involved, believe me. You need not be concerned that repeating Kindergarten might constitute a threat to your son’s self-concept. One of my grandchildren repeated Kindergarten. He graduated high school with honors and was admitted to a highly-ranked state university that experiences significant enrollment pressure, where he is doing splendidly. You merely want to tell your son, very matter-of-factly, that you’ve decided to let him repeat. Reason? “We think it’s best.” The simpler the explanation, the better.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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The birth of my daughter Amber was one of the best experiences of my life! Amber is my third child and none of my birth experiences went as smoothly as this one. Everyone at Jackson’s Family Birth Center was so caring, patient and kind. From my high risk pregnancy to my delivery, the entire

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Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

Alabama’s 13th annual sales tax holiday for school-related items is set for July 20-22. From 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 20, until midnight, Sunday, July 22, Alabama shoppers have the opportunity to purchase qualifying school supplies, computers, books and clothing free of the state’s four percent sales or use tax. In conjunction with the back-to-school shopping season, the Alabama Retail Association will continue its campaign encouraging shoppers to buy from local retailers by promoting the use of our hashtag - #ShopAlabama.

New Vision Summer Movies

(The Prattville Promenade shows only on Thursdays, while the Chantilly 13 in Montgomery shows on both Mondays & Thursdays) 10 a.m. * July 2-26 $4 includes ticket, 16 oz. drink and 46 oz. popcorn.

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July 2/5: Smurfs Lost Village July 9/12: The Emoji Movie July 16/19: The Angry Birds July 23/26: Goosebumps

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Real Encounter Moto Stunt Show

Frazer UMC parking lot, Friday July 13. Fun for the whole family and an inspiring message. Food will be available at 5 p.m. including “That’s My Dog” truck and Nancy’s Italian Ice; show starts at 6:30 p.m. This free event for the whole community will cap off the “Amped” VBS week for rising 1st-6th graders. For more info, e-mail pcofield@frazer.church or visit http:// frazer.church/.

Baseball Fun July 11-27 Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. All seats $2. July 11-13: The Croods (PG) July 18-20: The Boss Baby (PG) July 25-27: Horton Hears a Who (PG) For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Free Horse Therapy

July 2, 9, 16 & 23 6 p.m. 335 Coosa St, Montgomery. Presented by Guardian Credit Union. Be sure to bring blankets and chairs. Vendors will be available and picnics are welcome. July 2: Peter Pan; July 9: The Secret Life of Pets; July 16: Cars; July 23: Star Wars: The Last Jedi. For more info, call (334) 625-2100 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com. Montgomery Parents I July 2018

Stressed out? Maybe horse therapy is for you. Alabama Spirithorse of Prattville offers ‘Horsetails and Road Apples’ FREE on Mondays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. during the summer. The goal is to interact with the horses to help relieve stress. For more info, contact Alabama Spirithorse on Facebook at www. facebook. com/spirithorsetrc/. 10

Independence Day Celebration July 4 * 6:35 p.m. Happy Birthday, America! Join the Biscuits with a front row seat as we celebrate America with the largest Fireworks Show across central Alabama. Kids Day Sunday/Bark in the Park July 22 & 29 * 5:05 p.m. Kids 14 and under can play catch on the field before the game and run the bases after the final out presented by CocaCola. Bring your four-legged companion to the game for free and enjoy special dog-themed promotions all game long. One dog per adult. Star Wars Night July 28 * 6:05 p.m. The Force Awakens! Come meet some of your favorite Star Wars characters from across all the movies, participate in a pre-game costume parade, in-game Star Wars costumes, and more. MAX fireworks following the game. Dollar Dog Tuesdays July 31 * 6:35 p.m. Fans can purchase hot dogs for only $1! For more info on any of these events, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Local Family Friendly Theatre

Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents Annie July 4-August 5. The sun will come out tomorrow! No one can resist the optimism of Annie – a little orphan girl who refuses to give up hope. The delightful cast of this feel-good musical will get toes tapping with memorable song-and-dance numbers, such as “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” and “Tomorrow.” Recommended ages 4+. For tickets or more info, visit asf.net or call (334) 271-5353.

Cloverdale Playhouse Theatre presents The Hobbit July 19-29 with two Sunday matinees. Tickets are only $12! For more info, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530. Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre presents The Secret Garden July 26-August 12. This musical is a family favorite and is suitable for all ages. The Secret Garden is based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, with music and lyrics by Marsha Norman, music by Lucy Simon and presented through special arrangement with Samuel French. Tickets are $12 in advance and $14 at the door (if available) and can be purchased by calling (334) 595-0854 or online at cc.prattvilleal.gov.

July 10 & 24 * 6:30 p.m. Bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a concert as the sun sets over Autauga Creek in Prattville. Local shops and eateries will be open along with vendors on site. Concerts are free, family-friendly, and open to the public. Call (334) 5950854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.

Montgomery Zoo’s Teddy Bear Clinic

August 4 * 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Bring your favorite stuffed animal and let your furry friend be checked out by our vet staff, receive BandAids on any boo boos, repair any rips, and get an overall clear bill of health. Children through 12 years old and their stuffed animals receive FREE admission with a regular paying adult (one free child admission for every paying adult). For more info, visit www. montgomeryzoo.com/ or call (334) 240-4909.

Wynton M. Blount Cultural Park. Celebrate Independence Day with a FREE outdoor concert at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival! The concert commemorates Independence Day in conjunction with the City of Montgomery’s fireworks display. A citywide choir will sing patriotic tunes, the cast of Annie will perform several famous songs from the musical, and 50 members of the River Region community will each read from the Declaration of Independence. ASF encourages families to bring blankets, chairs, and a picnic for this evening under the stars. No outside alcohol is permitted, but beverages will be available for purchase. For more info, call (334) 271-5353 or visit http://asf.net/.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Important Vaccines for Adolescents This summer our office is busy doing school sports and camp physicals on preteens and teens. There are several vaccines offered for this age group that are very important in disease prevention and are worthy of consideration. John is a 17-year-old young man who is very healthy and active in several major sports. He has been attending numerous sport camps with other athletes for weeks at a time, working out and sleeping in crowded dormitories. After returning home from one of these camps, he rapidly becomes sick with severe headache, fever, chills, nausea and weakness. He is seen in the hospital emergency room, worked up, and admitted with the diagnosis of bacterial meningitis caused by Neisseria Meningitides. Meningococcal diseases are serious life threatening infections caused by at least twelve or more serotypes. Groups A, B, C, W, and Y cause most of the diseases. These serotypes can cause meningitis which is an inflammation of

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

the tissues surrounding the brain and spinal cord or bacterial sepsis which is an infection of the blood. Mortality rates even when treated are 10-15 per 100 cases. In those who survive with the best medical treatment 10-20 per 100 cases suffer disabilities such as hearing loss, brain injury, kidney damage, and limb amputations. These diseases and their complications can occur in people who are normally healthy. Those at increased risk are as follows: adolescents and young adults 16-23yrs; infants less than 1yr; college students living in dorms; those with compromised immune systems from medication or absent spleen; and those exposed to known active cases and those living or traveling to those countries with high disease activity. There are two major types of Meningococcal vaccines recommended for the prevention of diseases caused by the most common of these serotypes: the MenACWY and MenB vaccines. Two doses of MenACWY (brand name Men-

actra) are given to patients 11-18 years old. Usually the first dose is given at 11 years with a booster at age 16. The MenB (brand name Trumenba) is given at 16yrs.23yrs. This is usually given at 16 years with a booster in 6 months. What about side effects? With most vaccines there is a chance of side effects. Most of the time these are mild and consist of redness and soreness at the injection site which lasts for one or two days. There may be a mild fever in a small percentage of patients. Occasionally some patients may have moderate pain in the shoulder area where the shot was given. Rarely an allergic reaction can occur. Such reactions of an allergic nature are very rare but would happen within minutes or hours after the vaccination. The risks or side effects of these vaccines are outweighed by the benefits of disease prevention.

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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EXTRAORDINARY EDUCATION EXTRAORDINARY ENVIRONMENT EXTRAORDINARY EXPECTATIONS trinitywildcats.com

Trinity is Montgomery’s foremost educational institution, binding academic excellence with Christian values. Providing a challenging college-preparatory education, Trinity offers a rigorous academic program, committed educators, outstanding athletics, and a nurturing family environment. Our extraordinary educators at Trinity strike the perfect balance as they encourage students to strive for excellence, while emphasizing Christ-like character above all else. “The Trinity Experience” produces leaders who possess mental, physical and spiritual strength. If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Director of Admission, Jenny McClinton, at 334.213.2213 or jmcclinton@trinitywildcats.com. Tuition assistance is available. Discount offered to our military families. Trinity admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origins to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Trinity does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origins in any of the educational policies, scholarship programs and athletics, and other school-administered programs.

LOWER SCHOOL

MIDDLE SCHOOL

UPPER SCHOOL www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents ONE CAMPUS

Where Did the Summer Go? When I was a child, summer was one of my favorite times of the year. I loved school, but the summer break was a great time to play and be with my friends. It just seemed to last much longer than three months. Here we are in July, and the start of the new school year is just a month away – the first day for students is August 6. So where did summer go? When I was a kid, we were only given two days off for Thanksgiving and there were fewer holidays overall. We did have spring break, but we just did not get as many days off during the year. We also didn’t have as many classroom days. This coming year, MPS will have 180 classroom days, a week

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

for Thanksgiving and two weeks for Winter Break. With a combination of more classroom days and more holidays, the overall school year is longer. As we approach the 2018 -2019 year, there are several things parents should do to ensure your child is ready for the first day of class. • Double check your school zone. Go to our website, www.EngageEducateInspire. org and click on the “Zone Tool” on the main page, enter your address and double check your zoned school. • Check transportation. Please don’t wait until the day before school starts to get transportation information. It is unlikely you will get through. Call our transportation department at 284-2085 now, give them your address and school to find out where your child’s bus stop is and the approximate pickup and drop-off times. • Establish a school sleep schedule. Depending on your child’s age, ensure he or she

is getting all the rest they need to be ready for school. Start the schedule several days in advance of the first day of school. • Make sure students have a place and designated times to study. Your child may not have homework now, but spending time now reading a book or reviewing subjects from last year will help give your child a jump-start on the year. • Set good habits now. It takes repetition to make habits. Start early to ensure success. While summer may have seemed to evaporate quickly, it is critical that your child understands the importance of doing well in school when it begins on August 6. A little preparation can help your child do his or her best in the coming school year. Dr. Ann Roy Moore is a teacher. For more than four decades, Dr. Moore has educated the children of Alabama. From her first post as a pre-school teacher, to her administrative work as a principal, central office curriculum specialist, superintendent, and her mentoring the next generation of teachers as an adjunct professor at colleges and universities, teaching is her passion. She became MPS interim superintendent in January of 2018 and was named superintendent effective June 1, 2018.

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Montgomery County Schools

Eastwood Students Explore History

Eastwood Christian School sixth-graders traveled to Desoto Caverns to learn about the amazing history of one of Alabama’s most unique land features. Having recently studied the Roaring Twenties, it was interesting to learn that during the 1920s, the cave was the location of a “speakeasy” run by a gentleman who went by the name of Popcorn. Police raids led to a shutdown. Prior to that time, the cave was a Native American burial ground and a hiding place for explorers such as Hernando DeSoto. Students witnessed a beautiful lightshow and learned about the wonders of God’s creation in His formations found in the interior of the caverns. After the cave tour, students went panning for gold and then found their way out of a confusing maze. One student was overheard saying, “This was my favorite field trip of all!”

Brew Tech Runners Take Top Two at State

Two Brewbaker Technology Magnet High runners have raced to the top in the state in a track event. Chanice Spicer came in first in the 100 and 200 meters, and Fabiona Jackson came in second in the same event for the 5A division. This is the first time Brew Tech has had first and second place in this event. The state meet also saw both the boys’ and girls’ relay teams break the school record for the 4x400. The boys’ relay team is Justin Porter, Jeremy Gresham, Mason Foster and Josh Jackson, and the girls’ relay team is Dimya Evans, Fabiona Jackson, Angel Dixon and Chanice Spicer.

Alabama Christian Academy’s Graduating Class

Members of the Alabama Christian Academy graduating class of 2018 were accepted to a total of 34 colleges and universities and will attend 13 different schools this fall. We are also proud of our five graduates who have enlisted into the United States Coast Guard, the United States Air Force, the United States Navy and the Air Force National Guard.

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Academy Celebrates Class of 2018

With acceptances to 79 different institutions of higher learning, The Montgomery Academy Class of 2018 claimed numerous accomplishments in the classroom, in the arts, in the sports arena, and in the community. Comprised of 67 students, this Senior Class celebrates the recognition of two students being named National Merit Commended Scholars and 20 AP Scholars by the College Board. Since joining the Upper School in 2014, members of this class have played vital roles in interscholastic athletics, capturing 12 State Championships, while at the same time contributing to the visual and performing arts with local, state and national recognition including consistent national prominence of the choral program as one of the top choral programs in the country along with the speech and debate programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s recognition by the National Speech & Debate Association as being in the top 1% in the nation.

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Churchill Student Places At Special Olympics

Alabama Special Olympic State Games were held in Troy May 18-20. Churchill Academy student Drake Arden and his partner, Robby Bice, played at Troy Country Club as part of the state competition. The duo received top honors of 1st Place Gold in their division for the weekend. Nearly 1,000 athletes and 350 coaches and chaperones participated in the annual games hosted by Troy University.

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TEA Christian Attends Prom

The theme of the prom was “Hollywood Stars.” Students arrived by limo complete with a red carpet entrance, then enjoyed a night with dancing, food and fellowship.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME Valiant Cross Profits From Community Garden

As reported by WSFA 12 News, a partnership between Valiant Cross Academy and Troy Montgomery has resulted in a community garden. Produce grown in the garden will be sold by Valiant Cross students at a stand in front of the school on Dexter Avenue downtown. The program began in 2017 with the help of a U.S. Department of Agriculture grant meant to help Valiant Cross students learn about nutrition on Troy University’s Montgomery campus. With the produce stand, students will have the opportunity to learn about business ownership as well. “It is important to teach our scholars about the importance of starting and maintaining a business,” said Anthony Brock, head of school at Valiant Cross. “We want them to one day be a major part of the economic development of their neighborhoods, Montgomery, and ultimately the world.” Sharon Everhardt, an assistant professor of sociology at Troy Montgomery with a special interest in community gardens,said that proceeds from the farm stand will go back into the garden to make the program self-sufficient. The stand first opened in June, and will open again July 9 and 16 from 8 to 9 a.m. or until produce runs out. When students return to school in early August, the garden will begin to rotate to fall crops. The plan is to keep the garden and stand open year-round. Valiant Cross Academy students are shown tending the produce stand.

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

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

Accredited: ACTS, AISA, SACS, Advanced ED, NCPSA 3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 ecalions.org 334-272-3882

For a FREE Educational Success Consultation please contact the school office

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Montgomery County Schools

Macon East Lower School Starts Tomatosphere Program

Brew Tech Students Earn Medical Certifications

A group of Medical Academy students at Brewbaker Technology Magnet High have taken a big step toward starting their careers in medicine. Markiseus Love, Melissa Gogans, Shamar Elliott and Grace Purvis have passed their Certified Patient Care Technician exam. They now have the certification and credentials to gain employment at a health care facility. Dawneese Bowen and Kelly Cobb are their teachers.

Macon East Academy lower school students have kicked off a new outdoor classroom science project called Tomatosphere. The Tomatosphere seeds planted as part of the Environmental Fair include “control” seeds that are natural, untreated earth bound seeds, as well as “space” seeds that spent four weeks on the International Space Station in 2017. These seeds were transported to space on the SpaceX CRS11 Dragon! The H9748 seeds are a hybrid variety provided by the Kraft Heinz Company. Susan York and Sharon Harper, both former teachers at Macon East and instrumental in starting our outdoor science classroom, were on hand at the Fair to help plant the seeds. Each class planted seeds in peat pots and will chart the germination and growth as they provide the optimal temperature, soil and water conditions for their seeds. Results of the Tomatosphere project will be submitted to First The Seed Foundation in Alexandria, Va. The identity of the “space” seeds will be revealed at the end of the experiment, once the plants have germinated and results have been submitted. After just one week, the students already enjoyed watching the progress of their tomatoes.

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ACA Awards Mr. and Miss Citizenship

Each year the faculty of Alabama Christian Academy select two seniors to receive Mr. and Miss Citizenship honors. These awards are given to two individuals who exemplify a cooperative spirit, are school-minded and demonstrate an orientation of service toward others. This year’s recipients of the Mr. and Miss Citizenship Award are Andrew Markwell and Emily Jones. Markwell, a member of the ACA cross country team, is what is known at ACA as a “second miler,” always willing to do so much more than what is expected. Jones was given the title of Miss Citizenship for the 2018 graduating class. She was a cheerleader in many ways for the senior class.

A PRIVATE PREPARATORY SCHOOL FOR GRADES K3 - 12 www.maconeast.net We are located just a few minutes east of Chantilly Parkway. You are always welcome, so please get in touch with our Admissions Office and come for a campus tour. We would love to show you around!

334.277.6566 15396 Vaughn Road Cecil, AL 36013

Dual enrollment and scholarship opportunities are available.

THE OPPORTUNITIES ARE ENDLESS One Fourth of the 2018 Macon East Academy Graduating Class super scored a 28 or higher on their ACT test!

The Macon East experience is designed to nurture and develop well-balanced, responsible, and dedicated young people. Macon East seeks to enroll students who are capable of achieving success inside the framework of a college preparatory curriculum. Throughout upper school, students have the opportunity to choose from a variety of Honors, Advanced Placement and Elective offerings. Extracurricular activities include many opportunities for student leadership and community service through various clubs and organizations. At Macon East Academy, students are held to high standards in all areas of student life, and Christian values are reinforced throughout all school programs, policies and practices. We are proud to have lifelong learners and leaders!

Holy Cross Awards Coveted ‘Melanie Kelley’ Award

Every year, the graduating class of Holy Cross Episcopal School waits for the moment at graduation when the recipient of the annual Melanie Kelley Award will be announced. This award is given to the graduate who, in the estimation of the faculty, best exemplifies by his or her scholarship, leadership, character and service the Spirit of Holy Cross Episcopal School. This year the award was given to Will Alexander, son of Terrence Alexander and Crystal Johnson. Along with his name being added to the plaque that hangs in Kelley Hall, Alexander received a certificate, a Bible engraved with his name and a small gift from the school. 21

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Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Academy Juniors Attend HOBY Leadership Seminar

MEA’s Kennedy Named Top in Three Sports

When the AISA All-Metro Basketball honors were announced this year, Macon East Academy student Madisyn Kennedy’s selection as Player of the Year made her the reigning Player of the Year for three sports. Receiving honors for volleyball in the fall and softball last spring, she holds the title in all three of her sports. At guard/forward, Kennedy averaged 20 points and 10.7 rebounds per game and a 75% free throw percentage. In December, she surpassed the 1,000 career point mark, leading the Lady Knights to the quarterfinals for a third year. Overall, Kennedy has 1,133 points and 693 rebounds in her career and has received two all-metro and all-state honors.

Rising Montgomery Academy juniors Mac Main, William Robertson and Millie Stevenson were selected by the Upper School Faculty to attend the HOBY Leadership 2018 Alabama Seminar at Troy University. For more than five decades, Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership (HOBY) has inspired young people to make a difference and become catalysts for positive change in their home, school, workplace and community. As America’s foremost youth leadership organization, HOBY has a long and impressive history of successfully motivating youth and volunteers to outstanding leadership. HOBY aims to inspire and develop our global community of youth & volunteers to a life dedicated to leadership, service and innovation. HOBY programs are conducted annually throughout the United States, serving local and international high school students. HOBY programs provide students selected by their schools to participate in unique leadership training, service-learning and motivation-building experiences.

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Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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Macon East Holds Environmental Fair

Celebrate your precious moments

Macon East Academy students enjoyed the annual environmental fair April 12. Lower School students learned about animals and their habitats, caring for pets, robotics, the importance of our soil and water, disaster preparedness, recycling to keep our state free of litter, electrical safety, and engineering and groundwater issues. Students enjoyed a picnic lunch outside and some fun activities including Casting Kids and archery. The environmental fair would not be possible without the many parent and area organizations that volunteer their time for this event.

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ACA Celebrates Field Day

Alabama Christian Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s elementary students celebrated the end of another successful school year with an awesome Field Day. The ACA K4 through 5th grade competed in various games, competitions and fun activities.

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Montgomery County Schools

Montgomery Catholic Graduates 143rd Senior Class

ACA Honors Top Graduates

Phelps Griffin is honored as the Alabama Christian Academy Class of 2018 Valedictorian. She has been a longstanding member of the music department at ACA and has also led a middle school girls’ devotional for several years. Model United Nations, Key Club and Student Action Leadership were heavily influenced by her leadership. The ACA Class of 2018 Salutatorian Award went to Micah Williams. Williams’s involvement in the music department was second to none. “You can totally count on Micah to have an attitude of excellence in everything he does,” said Music Department Head Trey Holladay. As a member and section leader of both Band and Chorus, Williams participated in All Star Choir and All Star Red Band.

On the evening of May 22, the 143rd graduating class of Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School gathered in the Sanctuary of Holy Spirit Catholic Church. Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi, Superintendent of Education Gwendolyn Byrd, Montgomery Catholic President Anne Ceasar, and High School Principal Justin Castanza were joined by Rev. Patrick Driscoll ‘84, Rev. Victor Ingalls, Rev. Alex Valladares, Rev. Nicholas Napolitano and Rev. Francis Sofie as special guests of the class. Salutatorian Anna Marie Nutting and valedictorian Henry August Petters addressed their fellow graduates, special guests, family and friends after the class received their diplomas from Archbishop Rodi. The class of 2018, along with alumni, sang the Montgomery Catholic alma mater “Catholic, Our Refuge” led by Montgomery Catholic teacher Kerri Moore. Members of the junior and sophomore classes hosted the graduates and their families at a reception in the Holy Spirit school gym following the ceremony. The 81 members of the Class of 2018 have earned $5.3 million in scholarship offers from 26 colleges and universities across the United States. One graduate received a medical school acceptance in Korea. The top 20 percent of the class achieved an ACT composite score of 28-35 and GPAs ranging from 3.87-4.33. Graduates include: a National Merit Finalist, 11 future college athletes, an AP scholar, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Teen Volunteer of the Year, members of the first-place State Cyber Patriots Team, Boys and Girls State attendees, a Governor’s School attendee, as well as members of the All-State Choir, All-State Band, All-State Orchestra, All-State Jazz Band, and All-State Solo Competition.

Eastwood Kindergartners Celebrate Cultures Around the World

Eastwood Christian School’s kindergarten class performed a program as a culmination of their study of the continents and cultures of the world. Students dressed in cultural attire, sang songs, danced and shared what they learned. The class concluded its celebration by enjoying foods from places in the study. Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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Montgomery Academy Cheerleaders Attend UCA Cheer Camp at Auburn University

Varsity and junior varsity cheerleading teams attended the Universal Cheerleaders Association (UCA) Cheer Camp at Auburn University. Both squads received multiple accolades for their work throughout the week. Each team received three trophies. Three varsity cheerleaders (Sofie Behr, Ellie Gilmore and Kelly Yoon) and one junior varsity cheerleader (Frannie Brazil) received All-American honors. The cheer teams also had four individuals receive the “Pin It Forward” awards given by UCA staff members throughout the week to campers who went above and beyond in classes, had a great spirit and showed examples of leadership. Varsity cheerleaders Ellie Gilmore, Mary Jane McConnell and Lainey Williams and junior varsity cheerleaders Josie Aronov and Frannie Brazil received this honor.

Evangel’s Kindergarten Class Graduates

The K5 class at Evangel Christian Academy concluded the year with a program and graduation ceremony May 24. Students began by sharing Bible verses and songs. The audience then enjoyed a visit from various Bible characters. The children also shared math skills, reading rules, and the process by which they learned to read through songs and skits. There was even an appearance from “Super E.” When the students left to change into their caps and gowns, the parents enjoyed a video presentation celebrating the students from birth to graduation. The graduates later returned dressed in traditional caps and gowns and awards were presented to the students. After the ceremony, guests were invited to a reception honoring the young graduates.

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Montgomery County Schools

MEA Students Inducted into Thespian Society

Academy Hosts Author Kate Messner

Montgomery Academy’s 2018 author visit was a huge hit! Kate Messner captivated students and faculty with the stories behind her books and took students through her writing process. Prior to the visit, students read or listened to several of Messner’s books. The Lower School community transformed areas of the school into scenes from her books. Some of MA’s older students who read her books had the opportunity to eat lunch with the author or play a breakout-style game with her.

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

The International Thespian Society welcomed nine new members at Macon East Academy’s spring induction ceremony: Emily Brooks, Bailey Dees, Jacob Cannon, Jaycee Cook-McCollum, Johnny Mathis, Ally Matthews, Travis Moody, Makayla Morris and Casie Starling. The International Thespian Society is a division of the Educational Theatre Association. It allows for the induction of high school and middle school students attending ITS affiliated schools, based on the quality and quantity of work in all realms of theatre. Points can be earned from participation in productions (either on stage or backstage) and participation in the AISA district and state drama competitions. After induction, members can continue to earn points in order to move up through the International Thespian Society ranking system. Current ITS members at Macon East are Hannah Grace Johnson, Lane Johnson, Rachel Sargent, Sam Pittenger, Savannah Clemens and Madison Folkes. This is the third year Macon East has had an active ITS troupe on campus.

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Future Entrepreneurs of The Rock School

As part of an advanced curriculum, and in partnership with the Montgomery Chamber Business Resource Center, the College & Career Preparation class from The Rock School participated in its version of TV’s hit show Shark Tank. To culminate the Entrepreneur Track, high school sophomores and juniors formed two businesses [motor manufacturing and business training & consulting] and developed business plans for each. They pitched their plans to local entrepreneurs who acted as “sharks,” judging those plans for grades and prizes. Sharks for this event were Dr. Nicole Thompson, Auburn Montgomery; Sang Chung, financial advisor; Paul Dallas, restaurant owner; and Troy Townes, former co-owner of an eye care business. The aim of this class is to increase student awareness by presenting a range of occupational disciplines via four tracks; Career [resumes, cover letters, mock interviews, Career & Shadow Days], College Preparation [ACT prep, campus visits, financial aid, ROI], Military [National strategy, service roles, missions, organization, base visit] and Entrepreneurship [benefits of ownership and business plan development]. Discover the rewards of The Rock School by calling 260-0984, finding us on Facebook or visiting www.rockwarriors.org.

Mr. and Miss ACA

Alabama Christian Academy has named Colby Rives and Lacey Spear Mr. and Miss ACA. These titles are awarded to two students who best represent ACA. These individuals exemplify overall excellence in academics, leadership and spirituality. They possess high levels of integrity, self-discipline and courage. Rives was a class leader and also led the Pep Club for football games. He had an intricate role in spearheading many events to cultivate relationships through ACA’s K4/K5 Buddy program. He will attend Auburn University and is part of the Honors program, where he will live in the Honors dorm in The Village. Spear is known among her classmates as an encourager. She was involved in Chorus at ACA as well as softball. She will attend Samford University in the fall, where she received an academic leadership, legacy and women’s softball scholarship.

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Alabama Dance Theatre V

Three Churchill Academy graduates were awarded prestigious scholarships from Auburn University Montgomery and will begin their college careers there in the fall. Jack Sparrow received the university’s Recognition Scholarship, while John Faulkner and Major Penton were recipients of the university’s Warhawk Scholarships.

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Three Churchill Students Receive Scholarships

SUMMER CLASSES Age 3 to Professional Level

Session I: May 29 - June 14 Session II: June 25 - July 12 Tutus & Tiaras! June 18-22 • Ages 3-8

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Summer Dance Seminar • July 16 - July 30 Stars on the Riverfront • July 29 & 30

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(334) 625-2590 • 1018 Madison Avenue www.alabamadancetheatre.com

at the Armory Learning Arts Center

Photo by Richard Calmes

Jack Sparrow

John Faulkner

Major Penton Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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MEA Recognizes Senior Athletes

Macon East Academy recently recognized the senior athletes participating in spring sports. The golf team’s Bryson O’Malley, top left with his parents, is a 15-year student at Macon East and will attend Ole Miss in the fall. He and his father Mike O’Malley have led the golf team for several years. The softball team’s only senior player, Madison McKee, top right with her parents and coach, is a two-year student at Macon East and will continue her athletic career next year for the Faulkner Eagles. The Knights varsity baseball team, near bottom, recognized nine seniors who have led the team to another winning season and a bye through the first round of playoffs. Seniors include Parker Agnew, Drew Baker, Dawson Bell, Nick Fitzgerald, KC House, Jalen Howard, Blake Padgett, Wesley Pugh, and Kellen Ward. Baker will continue his baseball career at Chipola College in the 2019 season. The soccer program, far bottom. honored six seniors from the girls’ and boys’ varsity teams. Hannah Johnson, Colin Harris, Travis Moody and Jackson Vinson have been integral in building the Knights program, while Bailey Dees and Taylor Watkins joined the Lady Knights team this year. The soccer teams both made it to the playoffs and ended their season at Tuscaloosa Academy.

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Montgomery County Schools

Academy’s Westhauser Attends Boys State

Churchill Scout Troop Attends Camp

Boy Scout Summer Camp 2018 was a completely outdoor experience for Troop 20 of Churchill Academy. Rustic tents at Camp Tukabatchee in Pine Level set the scene for a week of early mornings, no electronics, intense hiking, swimming, and fun. Troop 20 campers were Matthew Dickinson, Navodney Foster, Dawson Mims, Tacori Searight and Andre Underwood. For the majority of the campers, this was a first time away from home; yet, they thrived during the seven-day camping experience. As senior patrol leader, Underwood received the Pathfinder Award for the week, and troop leader Yahnira Backus served as the acting scoutmaster for the group. Complete with 1/2 mile treks to and from their campsite for every meal, swimming test wins, and personal victories all around, Backus deemed this week a success for Troop 20.

Montgomery Academy rising senior Bradley Westhauser was selected to attend Alabama Boys State at The University of Alabama. Boys State is one of the highest honors granted to Alabama students. Students from across the state are chosen based on their demonstration of leadership, hard work, strong morals, and motivation in school and community activities. Student delegates have the opportunity to build new friendships, participate in a mock government, and hear from and meet a diverse array of Alabama leaders such as congressmen, state elected officials, business leaders, civic leaders and others. Delegates have the opportunity to join interest groups that focus on their individual areas of interest such as law school, fire college, law enforcement academy, aerospace academy, lobbyists, city government, county government, constitutional convention, engineer/computer academy, and environmental interest.

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Holy Cross Show Choir Performs Summer Camp Spring Musical

MEA Competes in Stock Market Game

The Macon East Academy economics class competed in the Spring Stock Market Game with one team placing in the top ten in the South Region. With 490 teams from the region participating in this semester’s game, Jacob Cannon, Hannah Johnson, Travis Moody and Kellen Ward’s team placed sixth! Coach Davenport finished first as advisor in the South Region, and the six teams representing Macon East finished first overall. Only three of the competing schools finished with a positive amount of money at the end of the game, and Macon East was #1 with a total of $100,968.49 and a 4.7999 percent return rate. Montgomery Parents I July 2018

Holy Cross Episcopal School’s Show Choir, comprised of fifth- and sixth-grade students, performed its highly anticipated spring musical recently. Music teacher Beverly Fain, fifthgrade teacher Connie MacDonald and sixth-grade teacher Patricia Bye joined talents to cast and direct the production. The musical is subtitled “A Musical Caper About Finding a Place to Belong” and addresses the reluctance, fears and attempts to find a way for everyone to resign themselves to their stay at camp. Reluctant camper Izzy Priori narrated the experience as it unfolded from daily early morning deep cleaning of the cabins to evening bonfire as the campers settled into their stay. One camper in particular, played by Charlie Evans, seems to have come to camp just to enjoy one activity only -- KNOT TYING! Songs featured along the way were “Summer Camp” with solos by Sanai Burton and Andrew Peavy and “The Morning Routine” with a solo by Priori. “I Want It All” featured solos by Michael Ann Williams and Carsyn Hawkins, while Olivia Smith, Burton and Priori lamented the fact that bugs are unfortunately a part of the experience. “Campfire Song” set the scene for a large and very realistic bonfire (designed by Show Choir parent Adam Stuart). “It’s A Bear” zeroed in on everyone’s fear that a bear in the woods would soon make a very unwelcome appearance. “Crazy Camp Capers,” featuring solos by Turner Clements and Sam Roberts, takes on the topic of tricks and pranks everyone naturally expects to be a part of summer camp. By the end of their stay, Camp Runamok became actually enjoyable even with the Marine-like daily cheer that Camp Director Aiden Blum demanded the campers shout. After the performance, Holy Cross Show Choir took its show on the road to Oak Grove, Angels for the Elderly and Eastdale Estates, where they performed some of their most popular songs of the year. After the afternoon concert tour, students enjoyed an outing of bowling and lunch together to celebrate their successful year. 30

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Evangel’s Senior Class Graduates

Evangel Christian Academy’s graduation ceremony was held on May 25. Parents, faculty and friends gathered together to mark this milestone in the students’ lives. Pastor Michael Rippy, senior pastor of Evangel Church and president of ECA, addressed the students and their guests. Valedictorian for the graduating class was James Paterson and the salutatorian was Joseph Washington. During the ceremony a video presentation was shown highlighting each graduate’s life. After the video, the graduates presented roses to their parents. The graduates also honored the memory of Miss Carol Lowe by presenting yellow roses to her family. Lowe was a former ECA teacher and AISA Teacher of the Year. After the service, a reception was held in the students’ honor.

ACA State Track Meet

Alabama Christian Academy had 27 athletes represented in the Alabama State Track Finals. The highlight was ACA athlete Mary Vander Sewell, center, taking home the title of Javelin State Champion. Sewell’s throw of 123 feet and 3 inches earned her the first-place gold medal as well as a new ACA school record. This is the second year she has taken home first place in javelin.

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Holy Cross Holds Commencement for Class of 2018 Holy Cross Episcopal School’s Celebration and Festival Eucharist was held to celebrate the commencement of the sixth-grade class of 2017-18. The closing chapel service ended the year with families and friends in attendance to wish the graduates well. Leading the wor-

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

ship were fifth-grade students Intercessor Nancy Addy, Oblationers Andrew Peavy and Ava Stuart, Crucifer Sanai Burton, Torch Bearer Steadman Meadows, and Lay Readers Olivia Smith and Gabe Krause delivering the scripture readings. The Reverend Candace Frazer, associate rector for St. John’s Episcopal Church, and The Reverend Jamie Osborne, associate rector for St. John’s, were celebrants and Ministers of Communion for the Celebration of Holy Eucharist. Holy Cross fifth-grade students, under the direction of music teacher

Beverly Fain, sang the offertory “Child of Tomorrow” with soloists Addy and Meadows. Sixth-grade teacher Patricia Bye delivered a special recognition for each graduate as Principal Kathy Taylor presented certificates. Each year, the graduating class presents a gift for the school, and this year the Class of 2018 presented to the school a collection of engineering items for the STEM lab, which included K’NEX Bridges, K’NEX Gears, and Snap Circuits Light. A reception was held immediately following the service for families and friends while an annual slide show presentation was presented for the graduates to enjoy featuring memorable highlights of their years attending Holy Cross Episcopal School. Class of 2017-18 graduates include, front row from left: Carsyn Hawkins, Chloe Campbell, Camille Campbell, Izzy Priori and Michael Ann Williams; back row: Turner Clements, Will Alexander, Sam Roberts, Aiden Blum, Hunter Dailey and Charlie Evans.

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Nine Montgomery Academy Students Recognized by Duke TIP

Eastwood Students Earn G.A. Henty Award

Each year young men at Eastwood Christian School are challenged to read a minimum of four books written by the English author and journalist, G.A. Henty, as enrichment in literature and history. Henty (1832-1932), wrote more than 80 works of historical fiction for boys based on his world travels as a soldier and a war correspondent. Sixth-grade students who received the 2017-18 G.A. Henty award are Hayes Finch, Ben Duggar, Jack Hawkins and Johnson DeHuff.

Nine seventh-grade students qualified to receive state recognition through the 38th annual Duke TIP (Talent Identification Program). Katie Brown, Kathleen Doyle, Claire Gary, Holden Habermacher, Charles Norris, Dylan Patel, David Spencer, Carson Springer and Laura Stanton Strickler qualified based on their performance on either the SAT or ACT. Of the nine that qualified to receive state recognition, Spencer also qualified to receive grand recognition. Students were invited to attend the State Recognition Ceremony at the University of Alabama May 7. The Grand Recognition Ceremony was held May 21 at Duke University. The Duke University Talent Identification Program serves 16 states of the Southeast and is committed to identifying and serving academically talented young people, providing students with information about their abilities, academic options and resources, as well as sponsoring challenging educational programs. Seventhgraders are invited to participate in the SAT or ACT if they score at the 95th percentile or above in one of the following areas on the ERB or verbal ability: reading comprehension, quantitative reasoning, mathematics, writing mechanics or writing concepts and skills. Students can also qualify with other approved standardized test scores. Students took either the SAT or the ACT during the months of December 2017-March 2018.

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ACA Soccer Seniors Commit to Faulkner

The 2018 Senior Class of Alabama Christian Academy had a very successful athletic year. Ten percent of seniors signed a collegian intent to compete next year. ACA athlete Wilson Anne Stephens received an athletic scholarship to Faulkner University for soccer. Madison Duncan also signed a soccer scholarship award and formally committed to Faulkner University.

Sylvan Class of 2018 Graduates

The School at Sylvan Learning Center proudly present their 2017-2018 graduates. They are as follows (from left to right): Mason Polk, Grace Bowen, Candy McClendon, director of education, Leann Marion, center director, La`Tasia Feagin, McKenzie Epperson, Ben Anderson, Quintin Spann, center front. These seven seniors graduated with an average of a 3.28-grade point average. Some of their career choices include nursing, cosmetology, welding, air force and computer technology and most of our graduates have already taken the necessary steps towards implementing their secondary education plans. We celebrate with them as they face very bright futures. The staff, their teachers, along with their parents are proud of their accomplishments so far. We wish them the very best for their future.

Macon East Varsity Players Named to All-Metro Boys’ Basketball

Recently, Macon East Academy’s varsity basketball players were honored for their accomplishments on the basketball court. Four MEA varsity boys were named to the AISA All-Metro basketball team. Logan Goree and Mike Murry were named to the 1st team. Murry was also a finalist for AISA Player of the Year averaging 15.7 points a game with a season high of 31 against AAA Champion Tuscaloosa Academy. Goree was named to 2nd team all-state with an average of 15.1 points and 8.6 rebounds per game. He had 13 double-doubles and a season high 27 points twice this year. Kyle Edwards was named to 2nd team, while Brock Taunton received honorable mention. Overcoming a pre-season wrist injury, Edwards put up 9.5 points per game with 4.4 assists. At point guard, he had a 3-to-1 assist-to-turnover rate. Coach Larry Chapman was named AISA Coach of the Year after leading the Knights to a repeat state championship and a 33-2 season. The Knights are 83-6 in Chapman’s three seasons as head coach. Montgomery Parents I July 2018

Montgomery Academy Students Attend Girls State

Montgomery Academy rising seniors Roma Pirnie and Hannah Hale were selected to attend Alabama Girls State held at The University of Alabama. Girls State is a week-long, fun-filled, hands-on learning opportunity for some of the best and brightest young women in the State of Alabama. Sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary (ALA), Alabama Girls State is a premier youth leadership program which offers a one-of-a-kind experience to its delegates. The American Legion Auxiliary’s marquee Girls State program is one of the most respected and coveted experiential learning programs presented in the United States. The program epitomizes the ALA’s mission to honor those who have brought us our freedom through our enduring commitment to develop young women as future leaders grounded in patriotism and Americanism. The young women become knowledgeable of the democratic process and how our republic form of government works at the state and national levels. During the program, delegates have the opportunity to learn about local and state government through a variety of speakers, workshops and sessions. Many fun activities are planned throughout the week.

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Evangel Christian Academy Names Mr. & Miss ECA

Evangel Christian Academy recently named James Paterson and Jo Ellen Whitfield the school’s 2018 Mr. and Miss ECA during the High School Awards Day ceremony. The two seniors were chosen by the faculty and student body because of their Christian testimonies as well as their academic and leadership skills.

Holy Cross Wins Statewide Poptop Collection Contest to Help Ronald Mcdonald House Charities

Holy Cross Episcopal School recently was awarded the coveted statewide Ronald McDonald House Charities trophy for the fourth time for the most pop tops collected. Representatives Brianne Denley, Emily Wright, Alice Taylor and Kylie Wright from Ronald McDonald House came to Holy Cross to surprise students with an exciting trophy presentation and awards ceremony. Holy Cross collected more than 172 lbs.of pop tops which averaged to be over 2.5 pounds per child. The pop tops are recycled and the money is used by Ronald Donald House Charities to give families accommodations near the hospital by staying in the Ronald McDonald House. Holy Cross resource teacher Marcia Bazzell has been spearheading this outreach project for more than 17 years at the school. Fourth-grade and fifth-grade classes brought in the most pop tops, and were given a party to celebrate their accomplishment.

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

HOLY CROSS ADMITS STUDENTS OF ANY RACE, RELIGION, AND NATIONAL OR ETHNIC ORIGIN. 35

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Pike Road Schools Hire New Band Director

ArborPro Beautifies Butterfly Garden at Pike Road Elementary

Special thanks to Jeremy Wright from ArborPro for donating tree stumps to the Pike Road Elementary School Butterfly Garden!

Patrick Darby attributes his passion for teaching music to the experiences and opportunities he enjoyed as a student in Homewood, Ala. Soon he will bring his skills and excitement for arts education to the young Pike Road Schools System (PRS) as their new band director. Before joining the PRS team, Darby served in a variety of musical education positions in Montgomery County, including as creative director for the arts program at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School. “In Pike Road, I saw an opportunity to create a music program similar to the one I grew up with in a school district that places high emphasis on the arts,” said Darby. “It is a very exciting prospect, and it is an exhilarating time to become a member of the PRS family.” While starting a music tradition from scratch in a young school system presents challenges, Darby says that it is very exciting to have the unique opportunity to begin a program and create a foundation of musical excellence. “We are extremely excited to have Mr. Darby as a member of our Pike Road family,” said Pike Road Historic School Principal David Sikes. “Mr. Darby brings a wealth of experience and is a tremendous asset to our school, students and community.”

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PRS Summer Soccer Camp

If you have a child ages 6-11 (by first day of camp), we have a great soccer camp planned for them. To register online, visit https://tinyurl.com/2018Soccercamp or print the flyer and return to Pike Road Schools. Week 1: July 23-27 Week 2: July 30-August 3 - 8:30-10:30 a.m. each day - Camp Fee includes a size 4 ball and a camp T-shirt. - All camps located at St. James United Methodist Church. - $75 early registration ends July 9; registrations after July 9 (including onsite registration) will be $85 each. Please make check payable to Pike Road Soccer and send to: Pike Road Soccer, 500 Avenue of Learning, Pike Road, AL 36064.

Pike Road Elementary PTSA Needs You!

While many of us have already set plans for the summer, our Parent Teacher Student Association at Pike Road Elementary will be setting plans for the future of our Patriots. Throughout the past year, we held events, sent home fundraisers and also requested your time. In so many ways you have helped our organization to fulfill our mission and to provide for our students, staff, family and friends and for that we would like to say thank you. We currently have openings on our Board for activity chairperson and community coordinators for the upcoming school year. If you are interested in one of these volunteer areas or have any questions, e-mail Jennifer Friday at jenniferofriday@ gmail.com. Youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have a great time and get to know some wonderful people!! We would also love to hear your ideas or if you would like to get more involved, e-mail prsptsa@gmail.com. 37

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The 20172018 school year is officially in the books, and what a great school year it was! Autauga County Schools grew and flourished. With every ending comes a new beginning, this is the time of the year for celebration. New graduates will start the next phase of their lives, and I wish the class of 2018 the very best in their future endeavors. I would like to recognize the valedictorians and salutatorians of our high schools. Autaugaville – Valedictorian- Joseph Howard, Salutatorians- LaQuinndra Parker and DeAmbria Howard

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

Billingsley – Valedictorian- Sarah Wilson, Salutatorians- Trinity Price and Alyssa Stange Marbury High – Valedictorian- Carrista Givens, Salutatorian- Hayden Ingram Prattville High – Valedictorian- Wesley Domsalla, Salutatorian- Andreana Durham Autauga County Schools are blessed in many ways. The Autauga Education Foundation held the A+ Banquet on June 11th at the Bradford Branch YMCA. Auburn University Head Football Coach Gus Malzahn was the guest speaker and he did an outstanding job! The funds raised are returned to all the schools in Autauga County. I deeply appreciate the financial support, along with the community support, this foundation provides to our public schools. Excellence in education is only attained through teamwork. Our

community and schools continually work together to provide our children with the best educational experiences possible. As always, Autauga County Schools is looking toward our future! We look forward to kicking off a great 2018-2019 school year at our Teacher Institute on August 1st. Our teachers will participate in professional development at the department, grade, school, and district levels starting August 2nd. Hopefully our students are enjoying the last weeks of summer vacation because the first day of school for them will be Monday, August 6th. I am excited about this school year and anticipate it will be the best year ever! Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 20 years of experience in the education field as well as 29 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

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Autauga County Schools

OJ Howard Returns to His Roots, Makes $20,000 Donation to Autauga Academy

Prattville Primary Prepares Students and Parents for First Grade

Prattville Kindergarten School students and teachers visited Prattville Primary School on May 8. Two outstanding students from each class were chosen to serve as tour guides. The purpose of the tours was to help prepare the kindergarten students for first grade. Ellie Cook and Carter Bolden were two of our tour guides. That evening at 6 p.m., First Grade Parent Orientation was held in the auditorium. First-grade teachers presented important information about the first-grade curriculum and student expectations. More than 100 parents were in attendance.

Former Alabama Crimson Tide football player OJ Howard returned to his roots recently, fulfilling a promise to conduct an instructional football camp for kids ages 7 to 17 in his native county. The new Tampa Bay Buccaneer tight end showed plenty of patience as he maneuvered among the 280 or so participants on a Saturday afternoon at Autauga Academy and even had time to make a check presentation to Autauga Academy Coach Bobby Carr for $20,000 for the football program. “He’s a servant leader,” Carr said. “He’s got a glow about him wherever he goes. God blessed certain people with that and OJ’s got it. It’s unbelievable, with all the success that he’s had, that he’s as humble as he is. OJ Howard is a big name, but he’s an even better person.” Howard, a five-star recruit out of Autauga, signed with Alabama and helped lead the Crimson Tide to back-to-back appearances in the College Football Playoff National Championship Game, earning MVP honors in 2015 with the win over Clemson. In 2017, he was considered the top tight end in the National Football League draft and was selected by Tampa Bay in the first round. A 14-game starter before an injury sidelined him, Howard had 26 receptions for 436 yards and six touchdowns in his rookie season with the Buccaneers. The day before the football clinic, the school unveiled a sign proclaiming Autauga Academy as the “home of OJ Howard.” On Saturday, he returned the favor by presenting the school with a donation. “It was a really, really good day for Autauga Academy,” Carr said. “It was a better day for all the kids from the surrounding area.” Carr admits the group may have to make a few changes before Howard returns in 2019. Registration for the free camp, which was sponsored by USA Football and Howard’s Got Da Juice Foundation, was held on May 16 and was supposed to be limited to the first 200 applicants. “It filled up in three hours,” Carr said, “but we didn’t turn anybody away. We had coaches from all over the state and they all pitched in. It was really, really good to see our (Autauga) football players work with other kids. I saw kids from Stanhope, Prattville (High), Autauga, Prattville Christian, Francis Marion, Calera. There were athletes from all over the place.”

Prattville Junior High School Inducts Hallman into Wall of Honor

At the 7th-grade Awards Day celebration, the faculty and staff of Prattville Junior High School formally inducted Sarah Hallman into the Wall of Honor fraternity. She was one of the original teachers hired when Prattville Junior High School officially became PJHS in 1970. She served the students at PJHS more than 18 years during her 45-year education career. Joining her in accepting her prestigious award was her daughter, Dr. Tammy Hallman Starnes, who recently retired as an educator as well. Thanks to Mrs. Hallman for touching the lives of so many students! Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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PJHS Hosts Annual Field Day

At the annual Field Day, Prattville Junior High students were allowed to enjoy time with their friends, consume a mountain of pizza and play a variety of organized games in a day of sunshine. Thanks to the Prattville Police Department for partnering with us to provide some great music and a dance-off. After a year of hard work, we enjoyed a day of FUN!

PCA Tours Washington, DC

Prattville Christian Academy’s eighth-graders enjoyed a visit to our nation’s capital to learn more about governmental process and our country’s great heritage. Visited sites included the Jefferson Memorial, the U.S. Capitol, Museum of the Bible, MLK Memorial, Mt. Vernon, Korean Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, JFK’s Tomb, Arlington Cemetery including Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Vietnam Memorial, White House, Museum of Natural History and Colonial Williamsburg.

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Beloved PJHS Teacher Remembered

During the 8th grade Awards Day celebration, Prattville Junior High honored John Schremser, former teacher, coach, assistant principal and principal at PJHS. He was an integral part of PJHS for many years. He passed away in 2015, so his beloved wife, Debbie, and son, John, accepted the award on his behalf. He was formally inducted into the PJHS Wall of Honor May 16.

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PCA Students Place In State Technology Fair

Prattville Christian Academy students recently competed at the State Technology Fair on the campus of Auburn University Montgomery. Advancing from the regional fair held earlier this year at PCA, half of the 13 entries placed among stiff competition from the 750 entries, and more than 1,100 student competitors, that spanned public and private schools throughout Alabama. In Digital Art, 6th-grader Amanda Lamar came in third place. In Video Production, 7th-graders Katie Gatlin, Cate Perkins, Annabelle Adkins and Ella Kate Churchwell came in second place. In 3D Multidimensional Design, 10thgrader Jenna Stilling came in second. In Internet Applications, 10th-grader Megan Dodd came in second place. In Robotics, she placed third, while 10th-graders Alex Lawrence & Olivia Hamilton also placed third. Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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Prattville Christian Academy’s Lady Panthers Clench School’s First AHSAA State Title The Lady Panthers’ ascent to the state title game was nothing short of hard work and determination by every member of Prattville Christian Academy’s softball team. The excitement began in the state qualifying game as the Lady Panthers were down by three runs against Gordo High School. With bases loaded, Carolyn Carter hit a walk-off grand slam to put the team up by one where they would hold for a final score of 6-5. Breathing a sigh of relief, the Lady Panthers brought their best game to Lagoon Park as they played undefeated (4-0) throughout the Class 3A state tournament. The Lady Panthers claimed the state title after defeating Geneva High School 7-1, the second win off them in the same day, in the championship game Friday night as they clenched PCA’s first-ever state title in Alabama High school Association athletics. Freshman pitcher Landyn McAnnally pitched a two-hitter in the final game and struck out eight to get the win. She was named the 3A state tournament’s most valu-

able player. Carter, Kathryn Fallen and Madison Hanson were also named to the All-Tournament Team. “We came here to have fun,” said Coach Randy Stough, PCA’s head softball coach. “I asked them for their best, and I think they played their best. It wasn’t just one or two players stepping up. Everyone played a big role.”

The Lady Panthers’ championship season ended with a 41-12 record. Since the state tournament, Paisley Wilson, junior pitcher, was selected as one of only 60 high school softball players from the United States and Puerto Rico for MLB’s Softball Breakthrough Series in California in June.

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Autauga County Schools

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PCA Takes Trip to East Coast

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Prattville Christian Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s tenth-graders continued their studies into the summer with a trip to Boston, Amish Country, and even New York City! Students learned about the Amish one-room schoolhouses and rode in a buggy, visited the Civil War Battlefield of Gettysburg, and Independence Hall where the Constitution was signed. Everyone enjoyed a surprise trip to Manhattan to see the Statue of Liberty and visit the 911 Memorial. Trip participants stood where the American Revolution began in Lexington Green, Mass. At Sleepy Hollow Cemetery, students visited the graves of David Thoreau, Nathaniel Hawthorne, Ralph Waldo Emerson and Louisa May Alcott. Instead of flowers, visitors leave pencils because all were American literature authors. Students visited the Common House in Salem, Mass., which they learned about when reading The Scarlet Letter this past year. PCA students even went to Harvard!

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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Prattville Alum is Part of UA Astrobotics Team That Placed First in NASA Competition Madeline Ward of Prattville is part of The University of Alabama robotics team that won first prize in a NASA contest. Alabama Astrobotics took the top prize at the NASA Robotic Mining Competition, besting student teams from more than 50 other institutions in the challenge to build a robot capable of navigating and excavating simulated Martian soil, or regolith. Made up of about 65 students from across eight disciplines including engineering and computer science, Alabama Astrobotics is the only team to win more than once in the nine-year history of the NASA contest, placing first in 2012, 2015, 2016, 2017 and now, 2018. Students began working in July 2017 to design the robot and tackle the new problem NASA presented this year. Contest organizers revised the rules and rubrics to reflect the discovery that water ice is prevalent throughout the Red Planet. The challenge was to mine the precious icy regolith, simulated with gravel in the contest, since water ice will provide oxygen, water and fuel for off-world colonists. What that meant for the contest, though, was no points were awarded to teams for digging the top foot of regolith. Teams earned points for collecting the gravel 12 inches below the surface.

UAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s robot mined more of the gravel than any other team in the contest, with many teams failing to mine any gravel. Also, Alabama Astrobotics was the only team with a robot that competed entirely autonomously, meaning the robot used computer programming to guide itself, mine and deposit the soil and gravel without any directions from students during the contest. The team placed first in

five out of nine categories that included mining, autonomy, systems engineering paper, efficient use of communications power and outreach reports. In all, the students won $11,000 for use on next yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s robot. Funding came from the Alabama Space Grant Consortium, NASA, Dynetics, Fitz-Thors Engineering, Crank N Chrome and the University.

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The 20172018 school year is behind us and we are busy preparing for another exciting school year. Hiring new staff, facilities maintenance, extracurricular activities, and the summer meal program are all in full swing! I am happy to report that we are close to 100% staffed for the 2018-2019 school year. Our maintenance department is diligently working to complete facilities upgrades before students return in August. Our technology department constantly strives to keep our network strong and healthy to ensure that the necessary resources are available to support studentcentered learning. Administrators, teachers, and other staff members participate in various professional development sessions and conferences related to their areas of responsibility. Curriculum planning for

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

grade levels and subject areas began back in the spring and continues throughout the summer. Teachers have already begun preparing their classrooms to be ready to meet their new students in August. Students are involved in elementary summer camps, athletic practices, band camps, middle and high school summer school, 21st Century Community Learning Center activities, and Elmore County Technical Centerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Camp Discovery for rising 9th graders. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m pleased to report that we are in our 4th year of participation in the USDA Summer Food Service Program. This program allows us to feed students involved in summer school and/or any extracurricular activities as well as any individual 18 years of age or younger. We have 4 school cafeterias in operation which are also serving sites, and we provide meals to over 30 school/extracurricular activities and community organizations. The program began on May 29 and will continue through August 6, except for

July 4. Approximately 5,000 breakfast and lunch meals are served daily at no cost to the system or the children receiving the meals. At the end of the program, that equates to 245,000 meals! Most importantly, however, we can provide nutritious meals to as many children as possible when school is not in session. Feedback from the school activities and community programs participating in this program has been overwhelmingly positive, and we look forward to continuing to provide this valuable service to our schools and community. The 2018-2019 school year is fast approaching, and we are looking forward to another great year. Our number one goal in Elmore County is to help EVERY student reach his or her full potential academically, socially, and emotionally. Thank you for partnering with us to make this happen! Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.

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Elmore County Schools

ARIS Student Inspires Others to be Kind

On a recent visit to Tuscaloosa, Airport Road Intermediate School student Ayden Claire Kelley saw something called a buddy bench. A buddy bench is placed in the playground area of an elementary school. When a student is feeling left out or sad, he sits on the buddy bench and someone can come over and invite him to play. Kelley decided to sell T-shirts with the words, “choose kind” to raise money for a buddy bench at ARIS. She not only raised money for a bench at ARIS, but she raised enough for other elementary schools in the area. She also inspired classmates who pitched in to help!

Homeschool Co-op Recognizes Local Graduates

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Academy Days Co-op honors its graduating seniors as they embark on a new chapter in their lives. Deatsville resident Windsor Joye, Millbrook resident Anthony Offutt and Millbrook resident Sarah Phillips pose together on the last day of spring semester as their homeschooling peers and parents applaud. Held at Coosada Baptist Church, the Academy Days Co-op meets weekly during the school year for homeschoolers in preschool through high school to take classes in subjects such as Spanish, science labs, genealogy, mythology, drama and P.E. Visit www. AcademyDays.com for more info.

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ECTC Students are Alabama SkillsUSA State Champs

Eleven students from Elmore County Technical Center’s computer technology and electrical technology programs competed at the Alabama SkillsUSA State Conference with individuals bringing home first place in information technology services as well as technical computer applications. These students are eligible to attend and compete at the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Kentucky at the end of June. Students from ECTC also placed in the electrical wiring competition.

Wetumpka Teacher, Student Honored at ASF Event

Wetumpka High School Theatre Guild Director Jeff Glass has been chosen as Alabama Shakespeare Festival’s Alabama Educator of the Year, sponsored by Troy University. Senior Michael Armstrong has been chosen as a “Tomorrow Kid,” one of five high school students named for exemplifying the spirit of Annie by putting service before self. They will both be recognized at th ASF Stars in the Park event on July 3 at 7 p.m. Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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SEHS Principal Transferred to Alternative School Program

In a special called Elmore County Board of Education meeting held June 4, board members voted 4-1 in favor of transferring current Stanhope Elmore High School Principal Bill Bergeron to a new position as principal/director of the Elmore County Alternative Program (ECAP.) “Dr. Bergeron has some very strong qualities I like, and I feel like they are going to pay off in his new position with ECAP,” Elmore County Schools Superintendent Richard Dennis said. “He has a military background, and infantry, and he is one that will stand in the trenches and hold the line. I very much respect that as a high school principal of 20 years myself.” Bergeron is also a former law enforcement officer. Dennis said he wants to take the ECAP program in a new direction, and believes Bergeron is the right person for the job. He praised Bergeron for his activities that involved more community interaction by students. It was also a record-setting year for SEHS as graduating seniors received more than $8 million in scholarships. Many of the athletic and extra-curricular activities have excelled in the past couple of years. Rashawn Blasingame has served as the director of the ECAP program, and she has been moved to a supervisory position over special education with the central office.Bergeron said he was not told a specific reason for the move, other than that his strengths include discipline, and ECAP is designed for students who have had discipline problems, or other issues that keep them out of a regular classroom. Security was a big concern a couple of months back, when eight students from Carver High School who had a beef with some SEHS students were able to get on campus and walk through hallways. Reportedly the students were seeking retribution from a fight off campus a few days earlier at a local business. Millbrook police officers, teachers and coaches were all involved in trying to round up the unwanted guests. Officers were able to chase the suspects when they left the campus in a vehicle and stop them in town before they left city limits. There have been multiple arrests in that case. Meanwhile, Bergeron’s replacement as principal at SEHS had not yet been announced by press time.

Wetumpka’s Ferguson Signs with UAH

Before Wetumpka’s Ty’auna Ferguson was recruited to run track in college, she needed a little convincing to try running in high school. After she traded her basketball shoes for track spikes, her talent level remained the same. The Wetumpka runner attracted the attention of several schools, but Ferguson committed to the University of Alabama in Huntsville. “If we tell her to do something, she’ll just nod her head and go out and give it her best,” Wetumpka co-coach Tyler Johnson said. “We couldn’t be more proud of her.” The sprinter locks into her lane and closes out competition. “She’s a silent leader,” Wetumpka co-coach Rashawn Blassingane said. “You watch her work every day and she’s the fastest one out there. All the other kids look at her.”

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Elmore County Schools

Edgewood Names Mason New Coach

Edgewood Academy has named Rusty Mason the new head football and baseball coach of the Wildcats. A graduate of Faith Academy, Mason began his coaching career as the running backs and wide receivers coach at Foley, where he coached current Atlanta Falcons receiver Julio Jones. Mason then returned to his alma mater to become the offensive coordinator at Faith and had his first head coaching stint at Cottage Hill beginning in 2004. Mason still holds the record for most wins in Cottage Hill history. He also coached at Faith and has been a head baseball coach. “He has a very good pedigree, and that definitely helped,” Edgewood Athletic Director Darryl Free said. “He’s got some good connections which are good for the boys in this area. He also has some connections at Samford and Faulkner, but after all that, it was his integrity and character that really drew us to him.” Mason is now tasked with two very different programs. Edgewood’s football team is in a rebuilding stage, as it has won just one game in the last two seasons. The baseball team, meanwhile, has found quite a bit of success in recent years. Mason replaces Eric Folmar, who was the head coach at Edgewood Academy for two years.

Stanhope Seniors Break Scholarship Record

Stanhope Elmore High School hit a record this year, with graduating seniors winning nearly double the amount of scholarship money from the previous year. The Class of 2018 received more than $8 million in awards and scholarships with a total of 247 graduates. This is the most scholarship money a Stanhope graduating class has ever won. Stanhope Elmore Principal Dr. William Bergeron said the record year resulted from a combination of an exceptional class and great teachers who put a lot of effort into teaching their students. “The guidance department worked hard to get information out to students on what scholarships were available.” He said a restructuring of the school also made a big difference. Freshmen and sophomores were placed in a separate building, with its own administration.

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Stanhope Principal Allows Students To Give Him Year-End Shave

Stanhope Elmore High School Principal Dr. Bill Bergeron has been participating in an interesting year-end tradition for around 17 years. He sits patiently as students with sharp objects remove his hair and he watches as it falls to the ground. He went to Kathy Weeks’ multiple disabilities classroom to let the students have their turn shaving his head and beard. Joining them were some other students, mostly seniors, who have had great achievements over the last year. Afterwards, the students and faculty in the classroom enjoyed some pizza. As usual, Bergeron said there were some rules, such as watching the eyes, the eyebrows and the ears. He has had some close calls and a few scratches in the past. With good humor, but sometimes a bit wary, Bergeron sat quietly, at times having to answer his phone as the school activities didn’t stop, even for the removal his hair. Some students approached looking timid, while a few others seemed to enjoy the prospect of their turn. “This is just something I like to do to let the students have a little fun at my expense,” Bergeron said. “And it is a cheap haircut!”

Rising Freshmen Explore CTE at Camp Discovery

Each year, the Elmore County Technical Center hosts Camp Discovery – a career tech exploration camp for rising freshmen. During the four days, approximately 75 students participate in activities in all sixteen CTE programs that cover both the ECTC campus and high school base campuses. From mapping the circulatory system using clay in medical sciences to knife skills in culinary arts, students experienced a hands-on sample of the courses they can take as high school students. Due to a generous grant from Senator Clyde Chambliss, students were served lunches from some of their favorite restaurants while a speaker encouraged them on their journey through high school and beyond during the break. The afternoons concluded with popsicles and Frios as treats before departing each day – with a wonderful turnout of parents on the last day at open house!

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Elmore County Schools

4th Annual Elmore County CTE Awards Banquet

The 4th annual Elmore County Career and Technical Education Banquet was held May 3 at the Wetumpka Civic Center during which more than 80 high school students who participate in career and technical education (CTE) courses in Elmore County Schools were recognized. Student award nominees, along with their parents and special guests, were treated to a seated dinner and keynote speech by Josh Laney, senior director for workforce development with the Alabama Department of Education. A Student of the Year from each of the sixteen CTE programs across Elmore County Schools was

chosen and honored in addition to inductees for the National Technical Honor Society (NTHS). The culminating award of the evening was the announcement of the overall Elmore County Schools CTE Student of the Year in conjunction with a $1,000 scholarship. Student of the Year winners are shown from each CTE Program in Elmore County Schools. Johnny Montgomery, second from right, Stanhope Elmore JROTC cadet, was named 2018 Elmore County CTE Student of the Year.

Wetumpka Bass Team Competes at State

The Wetumpka High School Bass Fishing Team took 5th place at the ASABFA State Classic at Smith Lake May 5.

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ECTC Students Participate in EMS Drill at Baptist Medical Center East

Elmore County Technical Center Medical Sciences and Public Safety & Law students volunteered as the victims of a tornado disaster scenario at Baptist East on May 4 as the Alabama National Guard’s Medical CERFP (Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and high yield Explosive Enhanced Response Force Package) worked with Baptist personnel to simulate the situation. The CERFP personnel searched for student victims inside a warehouse and treated their mock injuries at a “pop-up” style triage unit.

Edgewood Softball Champs

Edgewood Academy’s softball team topped Northside and Springwood in the state tournament to advance to the winner’s bracket game versus Glenwood at Lagoon Park. They were named state champions!

ARIS Celebrates Annual Field Day

Airport Road Intermediate students recently took part in one of their most favorite activities of the school year... Field Day! Students practiced events for weeks, in their PE classes, to prepare for events like tug of war, hippety hop, egg toss and running relay races. 53

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Giving Your Child a Love for Books in a Screen-Filled World

the 200th time. But it’s those cherished favorites that will always comfort and entertain. (If we go for a third book, Mommy gets to pick. Otherwise we’d never rotate our library.) Find a quiet, special space. We used to read in the rocker next to her crib, but on those nights she didn’t want to go to bed, she put up a fight just to enter her room. Then we used to read on the couch, but there are inevitably distractions -- the basketball game is on, the dog is barking at the neighbors, there’s music on the stereo. So I created our own special reading space on the bed in the guest room. It’s stocked with pillows and blankets, and I light some candles and lay out the book selections on the bed with us. It’s our insta-special reading spot! (It sure doesn’t take much with a toddler.) You can do this anywhere you have enough room for two.

When I opened the gates to screen time for my 2-year-old daughter, I was planning to limit it to airplanes and sick days. But with TV and tablets came a whole new colorful world that hooked my tot instantly, and her new word -- “cartoons!” -- became a constant refrain. Almost overnight, her obsession with books and our sweet ritual of reading became a distant memory to her little toddler brain. Screens offered something much more exciting. I was worried. For me, books are more than fun and educational. They’re a family tradition. My own lifelong passion for reading was sparked by my mother’s nightly read-aloud sessions with me and my sister. I want my kid to treasure that magical reading time as much as I did growing up, despite the irresistible pull of singing animals, animated princesses, and sweeping soundtracks. So I had to dig deep to come up with extra-special reading experiences to compete with all that sparkly screen entertainment. My hope is that these tips and tricks will cultivate positive and passionate literacy habits she’ll have the rest of her life.

Keep the selection fresh. Hit the library regularly, and check out stuff by their favorite authors or in their preferred genres. Libraries are key, since you never know what they’re going to like, and you don’t want to shell out bucks for books they won’t touch. Need recommendations? Check out some of Common Sense Media’s fave books for toddlers. Find print books with sensory experiences. You can load up your Kindle or tablet with digital books when traveling, but let them enjoy the tactile experience of turning pages and touching different textures. My kid loves books with an interactive element, such as flaps and dials or scratch-and-sniff spots. Her favorites include Mama’s Pajamas, which has an array of different fabrics, and Dance, which uses cardboard levers to make different animals dance. Keep ‘em all over. We keep a few books in the car and a stack by the potty, and she gets to take one to bed every night. It may be overkill, but it gives her an opportunity to connect with books at every step. Studies have even shown that having lots of books at home can give kids a big boost in school.

Make it a daily ritual. Every night, without fail, before my daughter heads to bed, we read at least two books together, usually more. On the nights she’s wound up and super resistant to sleep, this routine puts her in a mellow mood and helps her relax. By the time I turn the first page, she’s already heavylidded and sucking her thumb.

Resist the begging with clever excuses. When my kid gets really stuck on something and wants to do nothing but watch Frozen, I tell her Elsa and Anna are sleeping. She accepts that without question. A lifelong love of reading is a gift you can give to your kids that they will carry forever. One day she’ll thank me!

Let them pick. Your kid is bound to have favorite books, and you will inevitably groan inwardly (and probably outwardly) when she asks you to read The Very Hungry Caterpillar for Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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Come Worship With Us!

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Programs offered for all ages and stages of life. Sunday 8:30 am 9:45 am 11:00 am 5:00 pm 6:15 pm

Worship Services Bible Fellowship Classes Worship Services Discipleship Classes Worship Service

Wednesday 5:00 5:30 6:00 6:30 6:35

pm pm pm pm pm

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

Jay Wolf, pastor

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Superheros have been inspiring boys and girls for years and this generation is no less captivated. If your child is one of the thousands of kids who want a Superhero themed birthday party this year, have no fear. We will help you save the day with this Super-b party plan! Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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6. Got muscles? – We all know Superheros are strong. Have

Games

the kids wear a Men’s xl or 2xl shirt with sleeves. Blow up several different sized balloons. On go, two teams race to see how many muscles they can add to their Superhero. The winner has the biggest muscles.

1. Villains and Supers – For this game, you will need 10 plastic cups per player. Spread out the cups in an open area with half of them up and half of them down. Split the players into two teams. On go, the Villains turn them up, and Supers turn them down. At the end of two minutes, the winner will be the team with the most cups in their direction.

Crafts 1. Cape – Despite what Edna Mode from the Incredibles says, you just feel more like a Superhero when you wear a cape. Purchase colored men’s t-shirts – one for each guest. Cut down the sides of the shirt and lay flat. Remove the sleeves. Cut along the seam of the shoulder to the neck. Leave the neck intact, but cut off the front part of the shirt. You are left with a cape that can be slipped over the kids’ head. Decorate with scraps from the other shirts using hot glue.

2. Don’t Get Caught in the Web – Use crepe paper to make a web in a hallway or small space. Make the web challenging by overlapping strands. Time the players to see who can make it through the fastest without touching or ripping the web.

3. Knock Down – Print out faces of the Superheros’ nemesis like The Joker or Lex Luther and glue them to the front of cups or cans. Arrange them in a pyramid like a carnival game. Have the players use blue Frisbees (decorated like Captain America’s shield) to try to knock the villains down.

2. Canvas Painting - This can be done one of two ways. Like the sip and paint shops, walk the guests through step by step to create a Superhero logo. Another way to do this is to paint the canvas a solid color ahead of time and tape a logo shape on the dried canvas. Place the canvas in a box to keep the mess to a minimum and have the kids drizzle or splat paint on top. Remove the tape when dried to reveal a cool Superhero logo design.

4. How Strong is the Hulk? – Have kids wear green oven mitts or Hulk hands and try to pop balloons using only their hands. It’s a lot harder than it looks.

5. Who am I? – Print out pictures of both Supers and Villains and glue to index cards. Give the guests an elastic headband and tuck the cards inside (facing out) on their forehead. Players have to guess who they are by asking yes or no questions.

3. Paracord Bracelet – Use Superhero colors to make Paracord bracelets. Walmart.com offers a kit that includes 10 bracelets, buckles and directions. If you don’t like the colors in the kit, you can purchase specific colors separately.

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above them on a ladder or chair and take the picture.

2. Rent a bounce house in the birthday star’s favorite character. It’s a great way to use up some of the kids’ Super-energy and a perfect place for the Superheros to try some of their moves.

3. Hire a face painter to add fun to the day. Or, for the more artistic parents, check out YouTube for some easy how-to videos to paint Superhero masks yourself.

Goody Bag Ideas * Create a Bat signal flashlight by putting a Batman sticker over the lens. * Add a can of Silly String for Spiderman. * Decorate a green Jello cup with a Kryptonite label or the Hulk’s face. *Print out the comic book Pop!, Bang! and Splat! words to add to the front of bubble gum. *Add a package of snap pops fireworks and dollar store paddle board games. mp

Extra fun 1. Photo Booth - Put a blue sheet on the ground to represent the sky. Add clouds made of pillow stuffing or paper and skyscrapers out of cardboard. Have kids lay down to give the appearance of them flying and be sure to adjust their capes! Stand

Pam Molnar is an avid party planner and mother of three. Follow her on Etsy at Pam’s Party Printables.

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334-272-4900 MAIL@KINGRYORTHODONTICS.COM 8101 SEATON PLACE, MONTGOMERY, AL 36116 31 BRIDGE ST, THE WATERS, PIKE RD, AL 35064 Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Entering Your Teen’s Cultural Arena If you have teens in the house, no doubt you’ve heard mention of The Hunger Games. These stories have resonated with kids everywhere, making the series into bestselling books and billion-dollar blockbuster movies. But why do teens relate to these works of fiction so much? Film reviewer Dana Stevens wrote, “Adolescence is not for the faint of heart. The to-do list for the decade between ages 10 and 20 includes separating from your parents, finding your place among your peers at school, beginning to make decisions about your own future, and—oh yes— figuring out how to relate to the world, and yourself. [Stories like The Hunger Games] externalize the turmoil that’s already taking place in adolescent minds, hearts, and bodies.” I don’t think I exaggerate when I say that our world can resemble a gladiator’s arena at times. Your teens are consistently thrown to the cultural lions; forced to battle the influences and powers that wage war for their hearts and minds. Many parents look around and say, “I’m so glad I don’t have to grow up in this culture.” But Mom and Dad, your teens do! So how can we help our kids navigate this cultural maze and come out the other side in one piece?

Look Around

I know it’s tempting at times to just bury our heads in the sand. Read the latest article about a school shooting and you worry about your teen during the day. Watch an awards show with your kids, and you want to cover their eyes during most of the performances. Hear some of the conversations and issues that are being discussed at your child’s school, and you may want to keep them home instead! Our teens may be the most exposed, most informed and most vulnerable generation that has ever lived. As parents, we may seek to shelter out kids from the culture, or run the other way. But we have to realize that this is the only world that our kids have to live in. If we don’t show them how to navigate this jungle, who will? In order to prevent our teens from becoming casualties of the culture, we have to adjust, Montgomery Parents I July 2018

adapt and find new ways to speak to our kids over all the noise. That involves taking time to look around and find inroads to real conversations. So hop on Facebook, and see what topics kids are discussing. Scan the latest movies or music and see what is drawing teens today. Review your child’s homework, to discover what they’re learning. Talk to your teen’s friends when they come over, to see what’s on their minds. Like a missionary, assimilate into the culture your kids are living in. You don’t have to like everything your teen likes, but you should know what interests them, what excites them, and what they are being exposed to on a daily basis.

Verbalize Your Findings

Once you have done a little research into teen culture, use what you’ve discovered as a springboard to engage in a conversation. You can start off by saying, “I saw a clip from the recent video music awards, and one performance seemed inappropriate and rather provocative. What do you think?” What you are doing is allowing your teen to think through the issues of their culture, and come to clear and logical conclusions on their own. You’re giving your teen an opportunity to interpret the world around him. Questions, asked without a judgmental attitude or unsolicited opinions, prompt your kids to begin their own thinking process. Instead of letting the culture wash over them (and perhaps drag them into the undertow), by asking questions and verbalizing your observations you can train your child to formulate their beliefs and opinions. Of course, you might not always agree with your child’s conclusion. But that means you need to keep the conversation going. It’s not a “one-anddone” discussion. Keep your eyes peeled for cultural markers that invite conversation, and keep on asking your teen good questions like, “What do you think about this problem?” “Do you think what she did is wrong or right?” “How would you have handled this differently?” Parents might be wondering, “Mark, if I talk about risky behaviors or sensitive subjects, won’t it pique the interest of my kids and make them want to try them?” Mom and Dad, by NOT talking about drug use, drinking, sexual activity, homosexuality, violence, modesty, 60

cutting, depression, abuse, or a host of other issues in our world—you’ll make your child more interested. By talking about these issues openly and honestly, you’re essentially taking away the mystique. Plus, if you don’t discuss these issues with your son or daughter, I can guarantee that someone else will! Wouldn’t you rather be the one to walk your teen through the labyrinth? I know it can be difficult to bring up some of these subjects, but remember, it’s for the maturity and benefit of your child.

Fewer Lectures, More Conversations

You have every right to rail against our culture. Goodness knows there are plenty of opportunities to do so. But that won’t help your child navigate his world. If your daughter is sixteen, she’s had sixteen years of your instruction. Now it’s time to for her to put that teaching into practice. She doesn’t need more lectures about what is right and wrong. Your daughter knows. What she needs is guidance on applying what she knows into everyday situations. How do I present myself on social media? How do I handle money? What movies and music are worth watching or listening to? Those questions are answered by gentle conversations, not by more speeches and sermons. Many times, we parents rant about all the problems in the world. Teens know what we’re against, rather than what we’re for. Instead of pointing out the wrongs, focus your time on what’s right. Let your teen hear you applaud acts of kindness, cheer for victories of truth, and highlight areas of good in our culture. It’s not all bad. There are many things that we can get behind in our world. Choose those things to talk about as well, and let your teen know that you are a champion for good and not simply an investigator of what’s bad. It’s true that our world can seem like a battleground where cultural attacks are aimed at destroying our teens. But that’s why they need Mom and Dad to walk beside them and help them get through it safely. The world doesn’t need to win; not if Mom and Dad climb into the arena and fight alongside their teen. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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HONOR. TR ADITION. ACADEMIC EXCELLENCE TRINITY GRADUATES HAVE RECEIVED OVER $35 MILLION IN MERIT-BASED SCHOLARSHIPS OVER THE LAST 5 YEARS. MEMBERS OF THE CLASS OF 2018 WERE ACCEPTED TO A TOTAL OF 40 COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES AND WILL ATTEND 11 DIFFERENT SCHOOLS THIS FALL. University of Alabama, Birmingham University of Alabama, Huntsville University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa Anderson University Appalachian State University University of Arkansas Asbury University Auburn University Auburn University Montgomery Austin College Baylor University Belhaven College Belmont University Beloit College Berry College Birmingham-Southern College Boston College Brenau University Brown University Calvin College Centre College The Citadel Clemson University College of Charleston College of William & Mary University of Colorado Converse College Covenant College

University of Delaware Delta State University Eckerd College Elon University Emory University Faulkner University Flagler College Florida State University University of Florida Furman University Georgia Southern University Georgetown University University of Georgia Georgia Institute of Technology Hampden-Sydney College High Point University Hollins University Huntingdon College Jacksonville State University Judson College University of Kentucky University of Kansas The King’s College LaGrange College Lipscomb University Louisiana State University University of Louisiana—Monroe Loyola University Maryland Institute College of Art

Maryville College Middlebury College Middle Tennessee State University Millsaps College Mississippi College University of Mississippi Mississippi State University University of Mobile University of Montevallo New York University University of North Alabama University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of Oklahoma Oklahoma State University Randolph-Macon College Rhodes College Rice University University of Richmond Salem College Samford University Savannah College of Art and Design Southeastern Louisiana University Southern Illinois State University Southern Methodist University University of Rochester University of St. Andrews, Scotland University of St. Francis University of Southern Mississippi

University of the South: Sewanee University of South Alabama University of South Carolina Southeast Missouri State University Spring Hill College State University of New York at Stony Brook Stevens College Suffolk University University of Tennessee at Knoxville Texas Christian University Troy University Tufts University Tulane University Union University University of Memphis University of Pittsburgh University of Utah University of Virginia United States Air Force Academy United States Naval Academy Utah State University Vanderbilt University Wake Foreset University Washington and Lee University Washington University in St. Louis Western Washington University Wheaton College Wofford College University of Wyoming

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FOR BUSY PARENTS:

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Party Places Your Kids Will Love

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By Kimberly Blaker

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So your child’s birthday is just around the corner, and you don’t have time to plan and prepare the perfect birthday party? Don’t despair. There are plenty of fun places to hold kids’ parties that’ll save you time in planning, preparation, and cleanup. Most importantly, your birthday girl or boy and guests will have a blast. Try some of these party places for kids of all different ages. When you call, ask what amenities are available and included. Many places provide invitations, food and cake, balloons and decorations, a private party area, a gift for the birthday child, and other special birthday services.

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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Skates & Blades - Roller skating rinks

are again gaining popularity and most offer a choice of inline or roller skate rentals for today’s kids. Consider ice-skating and ice or roller hockey parties as a fun alternative.

Strike it Big

– Bowling parties are a fun form of recreation for kids of all ages. Preschoolers can score every time with bumper bowling, while teens can go cosmic for glow in the dark fun. Add to the amusement by offering small prizes for low and high scores and the most and fewest gutters.

Pizza and Play – Preschool and early

elementary children thrill at being invited to these parties where they can play kiddie arcade-style games, win tickets for prizes, hop on coin operated rides, and romp in soft play areas.

Old MacDonald Had a Farm

– Check with a nearby farm or ranch to find out what activities are offered. Many include hayrides, petting zoos, corn mazes, apple picking, and more. These are perfect for fall birthdays.

Recreational Romp

– Recreation and fitness centers offer a wide variety of activities for birthdays including gymnastics, swimming, basketball, and arts and crafts.

You Should be Dancin’

– Check with your local dance studio for birthday party packages. Some offer professional dance instruction and allow food and party treats to be brought in so the whole shebang is done right there.

Music Marvel – Big kids will be in awe

to see one of their favorite performers in concert. For young children, look for a kiddie musical adventure offered by an area musician or music center.

Craft Magic

– Young children love to create, so schedule a craft party at a fabric shop, craft store, or scrap-recycling center where kids’ activities are offered.

Hands on Science – Keep kids of all ages

thoroughly engrossed and entertained at a nearby hands on science museum where they can try out gadgets, watch or participate in experiments, play instruments, construct, and much more.

Amusement Mini-Party–

Theme parks make for big-time fun for older kids who are content to take only one or two guests. When planning the guest list, don’t forget to budget meals, snacks, and drinks, which add up quickly in theme parks.

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Monkeyin’ Around

– Parties away from home don’t have to be costly. Reserve a shelter at a nearby park with a large, fenced-in, frontier-style playscape. Little ones can run, climb, and play to their hearts content. Bring along your party supplies and set up under a pavilion. To keep things simple, call ahead for pizza delivery.

Row, Row, Row Your Boat – An after-

noon canoe or kayak excursion for teens is the ultimate in outdoor fun. Bring along a picnic lunch, and make sure the food stays in the chaperone canoe where it’ll be safe from tips. Don’t forget balloons for water balloon fights during rest stops.

Z is for Zoo

–Zoos are a great source for birthday entertainment. Many offer party packages that include meals, cake, invitations, live animal presentations, and more.

PARTY TIPS: • Keep the guest list manageable to avoid chaos, confusion, and conflict. The number of guests should correspond with the child’s age or slightly over. • Request an RSVP with a specific deadline, allowing time to invite others should the guest list fall short. Be sure to include your phone number. • Offer your child choices for his party, ask for input, and allow him to assist in planning. • Send out written invitations. Verbal invitations may be forgotten, make the invitee feel that she was an afterthought, and often leave parents of the invited child wondering whether the invitation was approved by the birthday child’s parents. • Include all details on the invitation including a start and end time, address and directions, phone number, and what guests need to bring such as a bathing suit and towel. • Play it safe, and set a rain date for outdoor parties. • Keep the length of the party within reason. Unless it’s a sleepover or special event, preschool parties should be limited to not much more than one hour and two to three hours for older children. mp Kimberly Blaker is the author of a kid’s STEM book, Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? containing fun experiments to help kids understand the scientific method and develop critical thinking skills.

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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Donate Cord Blood and Save a Life

NAMIWalks Alabama September 22 at Blount Cultural Park

Every year, mothers and babies across the country save lives all over the world by donating their umbilical cords to people in need. Donating cord blood is safe, painless and free for mother and baby. Less than 1% of all umbilical cord blood in the U.S. is donated. If the mother does not donate her child’s cord blood, it will simply be discarded. Cord blood is the blood remaining in the umbilical cord and placenta after a baby is born. It is rich with blood-forming stem cells that can treat life-threatening diseases like leukemia, lymphoma and sickle cell disease. More than 80 diseases can be treated or even cured with a cord blood transplant, which is similar to a bone marrow transplant. Like marrow, the stem cells contained in cord blood generate red blood cells to resist disease. A cord blood transplant does not have to match a patient as closely as donated marrow does. This enables more patients to receive lifesaving transplants. LifeCord, a program of LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, collects umbilical cord blood from newborns at hospitals in Florida, Georgia and Alabama. LifeSouth is licensed by the FDA for cord blood manufacturing, providing cord blood units for patients worldwide. To date, LifeCord has provided more than 200 cord blood units for transplants in 29 states and 16 countries. Fifty-five percent of mothers say that they would donate their cord blood if they knew it was an option. If you are pregnant, please consider donating. If you know someone who is pregnant, please talk to them about the lifesaving power of cord blood donation. For more info, visit lifecord.org or call 1-888-795-2707 x41738.

On September 22, the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Alabama (NAMI Alabama) will conduct the fourth NAMIWalks Alabama fundraiser, which will be held at the Wynton Blount Cultural Park in Montgomery. Registration for the 5K Walk will begin at 8 a.m. and the Walk will begin at 9. A short program will be held from 8:30-9 with several guest speakers, door prizes, and awards. University of Alabama Head Football Coach Nick Saban is serving as the state honorary chairperson. “I am honored to serve as honorary chairperson for this year’s NAMIWalks Alabama,” Saban said. “Mental illness impacts so many families across our country and we appreciate all that NAMI does to help provide the support and education to those who suffer from mental health disorders. Hopefully, NAMIWalks Alabama will create more awareness and generate the necessary funds vital to the health and well-being of our state.” The purpose of the 5K fundraiser is to support the education (including Crisis Intervention Team trainings (CIT), advocacy, and support programs of NAMI Alabama. NAMIWalks is a joint effort of NAMI, NAMI Alabama, and NAMI Alabama Affiliates. This year’s theme is #StigmaFree. Mental illness impacts the lives of at least one in five individuals across the United States. It drains the economy of more than $80 billion every year. One-fourth of all social security disability payments are for individuals with mental illness. There is no registration fee for the Walk. To serve as a sponsor or join a team, visit www.namiwalks.org or www.namialabama.org.

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Entertainment Dynamite Magic & Balloons ad on page 46

4315 Waresferry Road, Montgomery Helium tank rentals (varying prices and sizes). Balloon decorations. Costumed characters available. Please visit our website to see the characters we have to offer. Characters do a 20 minute show with several songs and deliver balloons. Magic & clown Shows available. (334) 270.1234 www.dynamitemagicandballoons.com

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Party Posse ad on page 67

Cakes/Finger Foods Bruster’s Ice Cream & Yogurt

6835 Vaughn Road, 10684 Vaughn Road, 3011 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery Select from 8” round cake or 9×12 cake Choose ice cream and one of the cake flavors. Pick a rich middle layer of fudge or caramel. All cakes are “iced” with fresh vanilla ice cream. For pies, choose from fresh ice cream over a thick, rich layer of fudge, caramel, marshmallow, or your favorite topping. All pies are available in Oreo or Graham Cracker Crust. We also have pies available. (334) 272.7369, (334) 239-7004, or (334) 676.4250 www.brusters.com

Cake Designs

3651 Debby Dr. in LeCroy Village, Montgomery Specialty cakes all offered with professional decorating. Specialize in children’s birthday parties. Closed on Sunday and Monday. (334) 288.6900

Cupcakes by Tish

Montgomery Specializing in gourmet cupcakes for all occasions. Wide variety of Daily Flavors listed on our website. 48 hours advanced notice for orders placed that are not on daily menu. (334) 356.5292 or (334) 625.0999 info@cupcakesbytish.com www.cupcakesbytish.com

Dairy Queen

6120 Atlanta Hwy and 3160 Taylor Rd, Montgomery Chocolate and vanilla ice cream, and chocolate crunch. 8” round, 10” round, sheet cakes. Blizzard Cakes are 8 in”, 10 in” and a sheet cake. All can be personalized at no additional charge. (334) 244.9490 or (334) 272.1818 www.dairyqueen.com Montgomery Parents I July 2018

GiGi’s Cupcakes

7918 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Nothing makes a special day unforgettable like a custom cupcake or cake creation from Gigi’s. Special selection offered every day of the week. You may order online at our website and pick up at the store or view our daily menu online. (334) 356.3737 http://www.gigiscupcakesusa. com/montgomeryalabama

Great American Cookie Co. at Eastchase

7048 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery Choose from 16” round, 16” square and large Rectangular . (334) 356.8111 www.greatamericancookies.com

JoZettie’s Cupcakes

1404 South Decatur Street and 2229 East South Blvd, Montgomery JoZettie’s Cupcakes is please to offer a variety of cupcakes, cakes, cookies and pies for the holidays or your special occasion. (334) 239.9289 or (334) 676.1598 jzcupcakes@ yahoo.com www.jzcupcakes.wixsite.com

Liger’s Bakery

Kimberly Davis is Glitterbug the Clown and the owner and ringleader of Party Posse. She has been a Professional Clown, Face Painter, and Balloon Twister for over 12 years. She has a passion for entertaining people and making smiles happen. Kimberly is also a Stilt Walker, Henna Artist, Airbrush Artist, and a Body Painter. PARTY POSSE is entertainment for all ages! Face Painting, Water-proof Temporary Airbrush Tattoos, Balloon Twisting, Henna Temporary Tattoos, Balloon Decorations, Stilt Walking, Comedy Prank Grams, Singing Telegrams, Cupcake Grams, Tiger Grams, Tiger Bombs, Magic Shows, & Balloon Bouquet Delivery. Many characters are available, including Clown, Fairy, Princess and more. (334) 868.3876 PartyPosseHQ@gmail.com www.partyposse.com

DJ at Large

564 Oliver Road, Montgomery Offers a variety of music plus karaoke and light shows for your child’s party. Video parties 12 ft. screens and popular videos. We can also provide the building for the party for an extra charge. Age appropriate music and will censor music to your discretion. (334) 260.9732 DJ@AtLarge.com www.DJatLarge.com

Fontaine Entertainment

3115 Weoka Road, Wetumpka Offer DJ sound, light shows, karaoke, balloon decorations and theme decorations for birthday parties, corporate events, civic events, weddings, etc. (334) 514.4457 www.fontaineentertainment.com

K & S DJ Services

Over 20 years experience offering entertainment music, interactive games and party props for all ages. 2 disc jockeys for every party/ event. (334) 285.6686 www.kns-djservice.com

3040 McGehee Rd., Montgomery Any flavor birthday cake, round or sheet, decorated with flowers, fruit, etc. We also have cookies, cupcakes and sandwiches available. Please call for flavors and pricing. (334) 288.6550 www.ligersgood.com

Travel to party location. 30 minutes of music class for $50. Several themes to choose from. All instruments provided. (334) 676.3075 Hallhome96@aol.com www.kindermusik.com

Original Great American Cookie Co.

Kreative Moments

Eastdale Mall, Montgomery Up to 13 different varieties of cookies: 12” round, 16” round 16” square and sheet cookie. Please call for prices. (334) 271.1900 www.greatamericancookies.com

Kindermusik of Montgomery

Offering balloon twisting, face painting, and balloon art to make each event have that “wow” factor. Find them on Facebook or email kreativemomentsmgm@gmail.com. Kim Hall (334) 233.4318

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RockStar Parties and Events

Montgomery DJ and Staged events. Stage and lights available. Available for any type of event. (334) 399.6962 rockstarparties@yahoo.com www.rockstarevent.com

Equipment/Games Rentals Inflatables of Montgomery ad on page 22

30 Handey Warehouse Rd., Montgomery Moonwalks, Giant slides, Interactive inflatable, Obstacle Courses, Rides, Rock-Climbing wall, and much, much more. Rentals for special events. (334) 398.0909 inflatablesofmontgomery@gmail.com www.inflatablesofmontgomery.com

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Arrow Rents

5600 Calmar Dr., Montgomery Tents, tables, chairs, carnival equipment, fans, and bounce rides. All sorts of themed decor, balloons, helium tanks, and more. Provide great selection and even better prices. “Your one stop party shop.” (334) 277.0460 www.arrowrents.net

Bradley’s Events & Décor

sion machines. Indoor facility available. We offer monthly specials. “You supply the people, we supply the fun.” (334) 612.7025 www.thespacewalker.com

Brendle Rentals

Event Photographers

969 Lagoon Business Loop, Montgomery Bradley’s Events & Décor provides unique and innovative décor for all occasions. (334) 230.7555 485 N. East Blvd. , Montgomery Party supplies. Inflatables. Obstacle courses and other rides, carnival games, slide, bungee run, tents and train. We setup at City parks and provide insurance. (334) 279.7368 natalie@brendlerentals.com www.brendlerentals.com

Space Walk of Montgomery

229 Lakeshore Drive, Pike Road What do you want to celebrate today? Setups for Birthday Parties, Daycare Events, Community/civic Events, School Carnivals and Sporting Events. We offer inflatable Space Walks, Water Slides, Obstacle Courses, Combos, Concessions and much more. (334) 273.0204 spacewalkmtg@herecomesfun. com www.herecomesfun.com/mtg

The Evans Space Walker

2952 Birmingham Hwy., Montgomery Inflatable cinemas rental. We have a variety of moon walks, slides, games, slide combos, obstacle courses, characters and more. We also rent tables, tents, generators, chairs, balloons and conces-

Lola Fine Art Photogaphy ad on page 23

2001 Mulberry Street, Montgomery Lola Fine Art Photography is a Boutique Style Portrait Studio located in Montgomery’s Mulberry Historic Business District, where award-winning certified professional photographer, Maria Wiggins, offers maternity, newborn, baby, children, family, high school senior and business professional/commercial photography services. We provide unique and timeless portraiture with a complete, full service photography experience. With experience in studio and natural light photography we offer fresh and unique ideas along with quality you can trust. (334) 551.2700 twololas@lolafineartphotography.com www.lolafineartphotography.com

Allison Hilyer Photography

Montgomery Allison Hilyer is an on location natural light photographer that specialized in telling your story by custom lifestyle portraiture. Please visit www.

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allisonhilyerphotography.com for recent work, faqs and packages. (334) 315.5425 allison@allisonhilyerphotography.com www.allisonhilyerphotography.com

J & A Film Company

Montgomery Specializes in Family photography, Birthday parties, Weddings, Births, Senior Portraits, Sports and more. Videography available for that special moment. Please visit our website for our recent work and a little about us. (334) 430.4049 jafilmco@gmail.com www.jafilmco.com

Jennifer’s Photo Box

Montgomery Natural light photographer. Specializes in family photo shoots, kids, camps, parties. Themes available. (334) 954.8098 jennifersphotobox@gmail.com

Julie Anne Johnson Photography

Montgomery Specializing in children, family, couples, high school seniors. Please visit me on Facebook at JAJ Photography Montgomery or Instagram at Julie Anne Johnson Photography for latest work. (334) 398.1726 firstofsix21@gmail.com

Mishka Cole Photography

Auburn Available for Weddings, Family & Children Photo Sessions, Prom, Senior/Graduation Photo sessions, Special Events & Birth Photography. (334) 220.6690 mishka@knology.net www.mishkacole.com

Limousines Touch of Class Limousine and Transport

Montgomery Carry up to 14 passengers at a time. Can pick up kids and ride them around or take them for pizza, etc. and then back home. These limos have all the extras for a fun time – red carpet, DVD for movies, a Birthday sign! Call for details. (334) 284.2673 www.touchofclassal.com

Paper Goods/Decoration/ Invitations Arrow Rents

5600 Calmar Dr., Montgomery All sorts of theme decor, balloons, helium tanks, and more. We provide a better selection. “Your one stop party shop.” (334) 277.0463 www.arrowrents.net

Brendle Rentals

485 North Eastern Bypass, Montgomery Montgomery’s Oldest Party Supply Store. Balloons, piñatas, party goods. Large array of items for themed parties. Party favors and birthday bags now available. (334) 260.5568 www.brendlerentals.com

Capital City Copy Shop

2701 Poplar St, Montgomery Poplar St. Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pick Montgomery Parents I July 2018

up, delivery, fax services available. (334) 834.3864 www.capitalcitycopyshop.com

Party City

2759 Eastern Blvd. , Montgomery A one-stop party store that provides a wide selection of merchandise at everyday low prices. Discounts up to 50% off party ensembles. (334) 409.0901 www.partycity.com

Party Planners Academy Events and Catering

17 Coosa Street, Montgomery Our goal is to exceed our customer’s expectations. Our specialties are our cakes and floral. Let us cater your special events with our own facility available for rent. (334) 318.3047 www.academychefs.com

Personal Touch Wedding and Catering

9920 Wares Ferry Rd, Montgomery We handle all aspects of an entire event including in-house event planners and wedding directors. We offer both seated meals, with a full wait staff, as well as buffet meals, large or small. We serve from one to 2000 guests. We handle all events, including business luncheons, board room meals, rehearsal dinners, political events, corporate meals, all of which can be breakfast, lunch or dinner. We also create dream weddings. In fact, our weddings have been featured in Elegant Bride, Alabama Brides and Montgomery Living magazine. If you can imagine it, we can create it! (334) 279.6279 www.onlinepersonaltouch.com

Places to Party - Artistic Abrakadoodle

Packages start at $175 for up to 12 children. $15 for each additional child. This includes the use of P’zazz for 2 hours, a 16×20 canvas for each guest, supplies, and instruction on how to paint a picture of your choice. Each child will leave with a completed painting as their party favor. Guests are allowed to bring in their own food and drink. (334) 354.1975 www.pzazzart.com

Paint & Clay

4319 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery Paint your own pottery or canvas. Full and half day Summer camps. Plan your next party with us! Like us on Facebook. (334) 819.4450 paintandclaystudio@yahoo.com

Places to Party - Bowling BAMA Lanes Inc

3020 Atlanta Hwy. , Montgomery Three packages to choose from. All pkgs. include 2 hour party, Full birthday party setup, shoe rental, bumpers, ice cream, soft drink, six children per lane. Pkg. B includes all of Pkg. A plus a hot dog and chips. Pkg. C includes all of Pkg. (334) 272.5423 www.bamalanes.com

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Brunswick Zone

1661 Eastern Blvd. , Montgomery Birthday party packages available. Please visit our website or call to build your birthday party package. Add-ons available and deposit required. (334) 819.7171 www.bowlbrunswick.com

Do Re Mi Karaoke

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Places to Party - Cheer/ Gymnastics/Dance

138 W. Main St., Downtown Prattville, Prattville If you are looking for a unique place for a birthday party, then P’zazz is your place. Birthday Party

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1714 East Main St., Prattville Weekday Party Hours Monday-Thursday 10:30 – 3:30 and Friday 10:30 to 6 p.m. plus weekend parties. Various packages available. (334) 358.8600 www.bamalanesprattville.com

Montgomery Creative art fun for your child for his/her birthday party. Painting parties and professional face painting available. Abrakadoodle Parties are easy for parents, FUN for kids. An edu-taining ARTrageous art teacher! Customized art lesson to fit your party theme. Each party guest leaves with the best party favor ever... their own original canvas painting. All materials included and LOTS of FUN! Party package will cover all materials and instruction for a 2 hour party for 10 guests = $150 minimum, $15 for each additional guest. Add professional face painting for only $50. Please visit our website for more information. (334) 265.5758 www.abrakadoodle.com/AL01 Instagram @Abrakadoodle_AL

P’zazz Art Studio

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BAMA Lanes, Prattville

ad on page 41

2787 Bell Road, Montgomery DoReMi Karaoke is an exciting way to have fun. Rooms available to rent for birthday parties, corporate get-togethers, and bachelor/bachelorette parties. We offer a large diverse song collection. (334) 239.7846

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United Gymstars & Cheer ad on page 21

6100 Brewbaker Blvd., off Troy Hwy. , Montgomery Gymnastics, trampoline, recreational activities, supervised games, and birthday party room. We provide the facility and activities; you provide the cake, decorations and food. Cost of $175 is for 15 guests and the birthday child. (334) 284.2244 gym@unitedgymstarsandcheer.com www.unitedgymstars.com

ad on page 49

3370 Harrison Road, Montgomery We offer the best and most convenient venue for your child’s themed birthday party. We will help you customize the party and make it perfect and memorable. Themed parties such as Frozen, “Sassy Spa”, Pretty Princess, Tumbling Toddlers, Disco, Hip Hop, Disneymania, “Teen”, ‘Hoe Down, Throw Down’ and more. Please call for pricing. (334) 277.1098

www.montgomeryparents.com

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Ballerina Birthday Parties at CJ’s Dance Factory

145 South Court Street, Prattville CJDF hosts Birthday Parties for children ages 3 and up. The two hour princess fairytale begins when you and your friends arrive. The Party set up includes the following: Table and chairs set up in the Polka Dot Party room, Dance studio area with music and mirrors, Our “SugarPlum” ballerina, up to 10 guests (more for an additional fee), Tutus for your guests ( to use for the party) and twirl in and a ballet class. $25 non-refundable deposit required. (334) 467.8603 www.cjsdancefactory.com

Big Green Bus

Montgomery The Big Green Bus brings the party to you! The Big Green Bus is a school bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility. Many elements of gymnastics are combined into one fun filled hour on board the Big Green Bus! Our party includes a zip-line, tumbling mats, monkey bar, rock wall, slides, tunnels, beam, bar, vault, rings, parachute games, and more! We will introduce your child to the wild and crazy world of gymnastics. The birthday child will receive a Big Green Bus shirt! Goody bags are included in the prices. Amber Holley at (334) 324.4628 biggymbus@gmail.com www.biggymbus.com

Montgomery Ballet

2101 Eastern Boulevard, Ste. 223, Montgomery Parties hosted by Montgomery Ballet Professional Company Members. Have your very own Dance Class for you and your friends! Princess characters available! Call for details. (334) 409.0522 info@montgomeryballet.org www.montgomerballet.org

Places to Party Martial Arts Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center

3447 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery Docarmo’s Birthday Bash. Use of Docarmo’s facilities which means you don’t have to worry about the mess! A taekwondo Intro class. We send out the invitations for you. We provide a variety of FUN games for entertainment. You may bring in your own choice of food. Minimum of 10 children. Prices are based on 1.5 hour party on Saturday afternoons and all day Sunday. Free lessons offered on all participants. (334) 220.5835 www.trytkdfree.com

Family Karate Center

8159 Vaughn Rd., Pepper Tree Shopping Center, Montgomery Parties now available 7 days a week from 2 and up. We now offer a Karate Kid Movie Birthday Party. We offer fun wholesome birthday parties at our facility. Included in our parties are 2 hours of jam-packed fun. Free Stranger Danger Demonstration at every Birthday party. Ask Mom First, and the Bully Buster program. Birthday child and guests receive a FREE uniform. Kung Fu Panda Balance Beam, Fun and exciting coordination skills & drills, Board Breaking Contest, Samurai Frisbee, Ninja Ball Bounce, Power Ranger relays, SWAT (Student Winning Attitude Team) Team Exercises, STORM (Student Team of Role Models) Team Demonstration and Teen Team Demonstration Squad. Stranger Danger Child ID Packages provided so mom does not have to supply gift bags. Mother of Birthday child, Birthday child and guests receive gifts. If any guest signs up for classes they get a free party. Parties for 2-4 year olds now offered. Unlimited guests. (334) 277.4911

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Johnson Karate & Fitness Academy

2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd. Suite J, Montgomery $150 for 1.5 hours of pure fun. You provide the food and we provide the fun. Please call for information. (334) 284.2344

NextGen Martial Arts, Prattville

698 Old Farm Lane S, Prattville Parties are 1.5 hours. Karate fun and games. Parents provide paper products and cake and food. Call for pricing. (334) 590.3759 www.nextgenmartialarts.com

Tiger Park Taekwondo

3125 Bell Road, Montgomery Come party with us! We provide the facility, demonstration, mini-taekwondo class and Birthday child gets to break a board. You provide food and cleanup. Please call them for information. (334) 277.2627

Tiger Rock Martial Arts

2750 Bell Rd. , Montgomery Academy facility for 1.5 hours. 45-minute Martial Arts lesson taught by one of our certified instructors. Parties scheduled on Saturdays. Includes a martial arts class with basic skills and agility games. Parents supply party decoration, treats and eats. We supply the facility, entertainment and clean up. Let us help make your birthday party fun and easy (334) 244.1465 www.tigerrockmontgomery.com

Places to Party Miscellaneous Adventure Sports Aquatic Ctr ad on page 29

1546 East Ann Street, Montgomery Indoor and outdoor pools, kiddie pool, grilling and picnic area. Price of $200 includes lifeguard up to 20 children over 8 for two hours. You bring food and cake. Additional lifeguard it $50. Under age of 8 the limit is 16 per lifeguard. Call for details. (334) 269.3483 www.adventuresports2.com

Newtopia ad on page 3

3731 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery Newtopia is an indoor playground facility designed for children to experience a fun, safe, and inclusive experience. Please visit us on Facebook for information on Birthday parties. (334) 669.8722

Prattville East YMCA ad on page 41

972 McQueen Smith Rd., Prattville Party room for members and non-members. Pool rental for members. Party room has a $70 deposit and is $190.00 for non-members and $140 for members. This includes 1 ½ hours of entertainment, hostess, sheet cake, cups, plates, napkins, silverware for 15 children. Cost for each additional child is $2. Birthday child receives a free t-shirt. You provide ice, ice cream and drinks. Themed parties also available. Call for more details. (334) 358.9622 prattvilleymca.org Montgomery Parents I July 2018

Pump It Up! ad on page 69

1029 Lagoon Business Loop, off Northern Blvd, Montgomery We are on the 10 Best Birthday Parties list from Parents Magazine Nationally. Only at “The Inflatable Party Zone” can you enjoy a private, indoor party with giant interactive inflatable play structures. A Pump It Up party is a fun and unforgettable event for ages 2 to adult! We offer three party packages. Surf our website for more information, or give us a call. Don’t forget to bring your socks! (334) 277.5678 www.pumpitupparty.com

Rockin Jump ad on page 63

5544 Atlanta Hwy. , Montgomery The Ultimate trampoline park. Our birthday parties include: 1 hour of jump time and 45 minutes in our private party room. We provide plates, cups, utensils and napkins. You provide the cake and decorations. Three party packages offered to fit your needs. Please visit our website for more information. (334) 239.2587 www.rockinjump.com

Sylvan Learning Center ad on page 42

4240 Lomac Street, Montgomery Education Center / STEM Education Provider Robotics / Engineering Birthday Party Packages Available! Kids will construct and animate a project as they learn STEM terms and concepts. Projects are animated with motors and sensors using coding software. (334) 239.0874 cd@montgomerysylvan.com www.sylvanlearning.com/ montgomery

Bell Road Indoor Pool Complex: $250 for 2 hours includes lifeguards. Bell Road Outdoor Pool: $250 for 2 hours which includes lifeguards. Adventure Room: $100 for 2 hours during business hours (2:304:30 p.m.) on Saturday. Inflatables party room at Goodtimes with eating area. Sat. & Sundays only. (334) 271.4343 www.ymcamontgomery.org

Chuck E Cheese

1116 Eastdale Mall, Montgomery Three party packages offered. (334) 281.9290 www.chuckecheese.com

East Branch YMCA

3407 Pelzer Ave. , Montgomery Parties for members. Indoor and outdoor pools. Outdoor pool includes slide and splash pool. YMCA provides lifeguards for party. (334) 272.339 www.ymcamontgomery.org

Eastdale Mall Island Carousel

Eastdale Mall, Montgomery 4 Tables available for you to set up. If you come early you can hold them. We can not reserve the tables. Child and 9 friends ride one time for FREE. (334) 270.2736

FC Montgomery Soccer

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd, Montg. We offer a broad spectrum of party opportunities and are very flexible because we are here to serve you and make your event special. Our parties can last 1, 2, or 3 hours, and include fun sports games, races, and short sided games. You will have full use of our kitchen, fridges, and the dining area. If you want it to be super easy, put us in charge of setting up tables, ordering the cake, drinks, or lunch. Cost: $100 for 1 hour, $175 for 2 hours and $230 for 3

Antique Train Rides

Located in Calera, 60 miles north of Montgomery Party takes place in the restored Amtrak car. Includes an hour train ride through the woods and by the interstate. Parents can set up party in our restored Amtrak car. Kids can also look through the old railroad yard. Hostesses are available but parents supply food and supplies. Theme parties available. (205) 668.3435 www.hodrrm.org

Bell Road YMCA

2435 Bell Rd.,Montgomery Can rent pool, building or both. Goodtimes Waterpark: $350 for 2 hours which includes lifeguards.

hours. Add-ons are available for additional fees. (334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com www.fcmontgomery.com

Go Karting Montgomery

9033 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery Come just for fun or book a party! Please visit our website to become a member to book a party. Reservation are required. (334) 271.2020 www.gokartingmontgomery.com

www.montgomeryparents.com

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McWane Center

200 19th Street North, Birmingham They do it all â&#x20AC;&#x201C; cake, punch, ice cream, paper products and, if you like, goodie bags. If you want a special science demonstration while you celebrate, they can also provide that. Your group will party in one of the colorful party rooms, then take to the museum floor for a full day of hands-on science fun and discovery. (205) 714.8369 www.mcwane.org

Smiles Galore

130 South Maryland Street, Montgomery Plans parties for children. Many themes to choose from. Dress up, crafts, canvas painting, pirates, banana split Sundaes, superhero party, cowboy party, Princess party, just to name a few. Also do Stuff-n-fluff, Stuff a purse, Noahsaurs and Bella B Glamour workshop for girls. Set up is included. We do as much or as little as you like for us to do. All ages. One call takes care of all your party needs. (334) 269.2895 www.smilesgaloreinc.com

Splattered Woods Paintball

2151 Cantelou Road, Montgomery Mobile paintball supply sales and service. We hose parties at your field or our location: Birthday Parties/Team Building/Youth Groups. We can build custom games to fit your needs. Friendly Christian sales and service. (334) 294.6891 www.splatteredwoods.com

Places to Party - Outdoors Places to Party - Parks Shade Tree Riding Academy ad on page 28

566 Thornfield Dr., Millbrook Gentle, experienced horses, easy trail and knowledgeable staff to assist beginners. Call to reserve your party. (334) 290.3727 or (334) 546-3964 www.shadetreeridingstables.com

Montgomery Zoo

2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery Rent a shelter and host your own birthday party. Pay regular admission for each child or qualify for a group discount with 20 or more children. (334) 240.4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com

YMCA Camp Chandler

Wetumpka, on Lake Jordan 30 minutes from Montgomery, Wetumpka Great birthday idea for kids 5 to 15. Ten child minimum. This three hour block of time includes 2-3 activities that you and your child choose, and starting or ending with meal served in the Dining Hall (if you choose the meal option). Parents may bring cake and ice cream to be served with the meal. Cost with a meal: $20.00 per child (10 child minimum) Cost without a meal: $15.00 per child (10 child minimum) Please call for private party info. (334) 229.0035 www.campchandler.org

Millbrook Memorial Ctr & Village Green Park

On Main Street and Grandview, Millbrook Incredible wooden playground with castle, space shuttle, boat, etc. We have picnic tables and picnic shelter. First come first serve. Memorial Center rents for $200 for a one day rental + a $100 security deposit which can be returned upon inspection of facilities and return of the key. (334) 285.6428 www.cityofmillbrook.org under parks and recreation tab

Montgomery City Parks

Montgomery Call to reserve picnic shelters all day for Lagoon Park, Buddy Watson Park, Ida Belle Young Park, Oak Park, Gateway and AUM Park. Large shelters are $50 for all day and $25 for 1/2 day. Small shelters are $40 for full day and $20 for half day. All parks are first come first serve and open to the public. Make shelter reservations as early as possible. Pete Peterson Lodge in Lagoon Park is also available for rent and is air conditioned and heated. Price starts at $300 during week, and $400 on weekends for 4 hours. Gateway Lodge is $600 during the week and $800 on the weekend. Gateway has a catererâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kitchen. This books fast so call early. (334) 241.2300 www.montgomeryal.gov click on departments and then parks and recreations

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Prattville Parks

Prattville City park shelters are $25 for 4 hrs. & $50 for 8 hrs. Cooter’s Pond pavilions rent for $35 or $75 depending on which pavilion. The Doster Community Center: auditorium $350 for 10 hours, dining hall $200 for 10 hours. The kitchen with either one of these rooms is an additional $75.00. Upper Kingston Community Center rents for $200 for 10 hours. Call Department of Leisure Services to reserve. (334) 361.3640 www.prattvilleal.gov

Wetumpka Parks

Wetumpka Gold Star Park (no rental fee if available), Jeanette Barrett Civic Room in Gold Star Park rents for individual $40, business $50 and church $25 ($50 refundable deposit). Martin Luther King Recreation Center (requires a $300 refundable cash deposit) 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. for $115. Civic Center in Wetumpka, large room with kitchen, $500 refundable deposit, $125 cleaning fee and $1075 rental for 10a.m. until 12a.m. Call 567.3002 for details about Fort Toulouse/Jackson Park, off US 231, Wetumpka 165-acre park area includes nature trails, campgrounds, picnic pavilion, museum, boat launch, and fort. Would be a great place for either a Pocahontas Party or a Wild West Party. (334) 567.5147 www.cityofwetumpka.com

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

Places to Party Restaurants Chick Fil A

2682 Eastern Blvd and Eastchase Pkwy., Montgomery Playground and reserved section. Kids meal and toy, ice cream and visit from Cow (mascot) on request. Please call your local Chik Fil A for pricing. Every child gets a balloon. (334) 271.0104 www.chikfila.com

Cici’s Pizza

981 Ann St., Montgomery Ages 10 and under, $5.21 per person; adults $8.89 including your drink of choice. You bring cake and Cici’s does the rest. (334) 386.3086 www.cicis.com

McDonald’s

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

Nancy’s Italian Ice

7976 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery Ice and cupcakes available for purchase. (334) 356.1403 www.nancysice.com

Pizza Hut

Montgomery Offered at all Montgomery locations as well as Prattville, Wetumpka and Clanton. Costs vary. Call for details. (334) 265.6000 www.pizzahut.com

Places to Party - Skating Eastdale Mall Ice Palace

Eastdale Mall, Montgomery 10 or more people. Free birthday invitations and reserved table outside the rink. You bring cake and everything you need. Please call for pricing. (334) 277.2088 www.eastdale-mall.com

Places to Party - Tea / Dress Up Gazebo Tea Room

414 Perry Hill Road, Montgomery A wonderful place for a girl’s tea party. Choose your own teacup and tea to sip. Finger foods available. Call for more information. (334) 277.1839

www.montgomeryparents.com

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Paint and Clay

4319 Atlanta Hwy. , Montgomery Girls Tea Party–Each child will paint two tea cups and saucers, one to keep and one for the birthday girl. The birthday girl paints the teapot and has a set of cups to treasure made by her friends. Other party themes available for boys and girls. Canvas parties are now available. (334) 819.4450 paintandclaystudio@yahoo.com

Kwik Kopy Shop

4148 Carmichael Rd. and 448 South Lawrence Street, Montgomery Print custom invitations. Wide variety of designer invitations for theme parties such as pool, slumber, tea, zoo, carousel, western, bowling, skating, dancing, etc. 8 1/2 x 11 designed papers are available for you to do it yourself. Fast turn around. (334) 244.0444 or (334) 262.8000 www.kwikkopyshop.com

The Paper Lady

Smiles Galore

Montgomery Specializing in reasonably priced invitations, birth announcements, calling cards, thank you notes and more. Also an authorized Sweet Pea Designs dealer. 866) 481.4414 donna@thepaperlady.net www.thepaperlady.net

Printed Invitations

The Shoppes at My Kids Attic

Unique Gifts for Kids and Adults ad on page 25

2701 Poplar St. , Montgomery Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pick up, delivery, fax services available. (334) 230.9681 www.capitalcitycopyshop.com

401 Coliseum Blvd. Eastbrook Shopping Center, Montgomery We offer something for the everything in your life. Specialty gifts, home décor, candles, jewelry, pewter, children’s couture, vinyl and monogrammed gifts. (334) 270.1456 www.mykidsattic.biz

Creative Printing

Goat Hill Museum Store

Capital City Copy Shop

2501 East Fifth Street, Montgomery Everything is custom made for that extra special birthday. (334) 281.1315 http://www.creativeprinting.us.com

Located in Alabama’s State Capitol Building, Montgomery Civil War, Civil Rights- Books, Local Artwork, Toys, Collectibles, Ornaments, Music, Videos, Cookbooks, Pottery, Souvenirs, and Unique Southern

Gifts. Union Street Entrance. Open Mon.-Fri, 8:00 – 4:30 and Sat. from 9-4 (Sat. please enter through the Union St. entrance). (334) 353.4969 goathill@preserveala.org

Montgomery Zoo Gift Shop

2301 Coliseum Parkway, Off the Northern Blvd. , Montgomery Animal-related toys, shirts, masks, jewelry. Great gifts for the animal lover. (334) 240.4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com

Velvet Pumpkin

8185 Vaughn Rd., Pepper Tree Annex, Montgomery Beautiful selection of unique Clothing, Vera Bradley, frames and bath items. (334) 273.9293 www.velvetpumpkinonline.net

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Gift Shop

Blount Cultural Park, Montgomery Theatre-related gifts. Open during performance hours, one hour prior to show and through intermission. Contact box office for show times. (334) 271.5358 www.asf.net

Artworks by Michael

Montgomery Multi-medium artist that has been featured in boutiques in the Montgomery area for several years. Specializing in black & white graphite pencil portraits of children and adults alike, also pet portraits in oil. Great Gift ideas! Please check out some of my artwork on Instagram at Artworks by Michael. (334) 324.2630 mike.eggers@ymail.com

Barb’s on Mulberry

1923 Mulberry Street, Montgomery Will personalize lots of gift items. Choose from a wide variety of unique and personalized gifts. Closed on Mondays. We now do birthday parties. (334) 269.BARB (2272) www.barbsonmulberry.com

N O W E N R O L L I N G F O R 2018 2011

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

ENROLL NOW, CALL TODAY!

4 Convenient Locations:

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

1816 Glynwood Dr. Prattville - 365-1451 I 1767 Halcyon Blvd. - 272-3188 3335 Woodley Rd. - 284-5560 I 4120 Carmichael Rd. - 271-4733

SPECIAL OFFER

FREE REGISTRATION With this coupon and new enrollment only. Up to $85 Value! 73

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Capitol City Comics

7919 Vaughn Rd. (Festival Plaza), Montgomery Large selection of comics, gaming cards, and statues. Military and college student discounts. (334) 215.3335 robcomix@aol.com

Embellish

7056 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery Large selection of items to be monogrammed. Book bags, Scout bags, Brush Fire T-shirts, jewelry, tumblers and many, many more. (334) 649.2022 www.theembellish.com

Heather Pierce Designs

7936 Vaughn Rd, Montgomery Heather Pierce Designs specializes in personalized gifts. We offer tile décor including tumbled marble coasters, trivets and magnets. (334) 676.1807 www.heatherpiercedesigns.com

Jan Beale’s You Name It

5350 Atlanta Hwy #A, Montgomery We specialize in monogrammed and personalized gifts for all occasions. You’ll find exceptional gift items for baby, children, and adults. Many of our items can be monogrammed or personalized, adding that very special touch to your gift. (334) 272.9878 jcbea@aol.com

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Gift Shop

Blount Cultural Park, Montgomery You will find a wide assortment of unique gifts that are handcrafted by local artists for that special someone. (334) 240.4337 www.mmfa.org

Old Alabama Town Gift Shop

301 Columbus St. , Montgomery Regional and old-fashioned gift items. (334) 240.4500 www.oldalabamatown.com

Yard Signs Montgomery Storks & More ad on page 19

Montgomery Storks & More delivers personalized newborn stork and birthday lawn signs to celebrate any occasion in the Montgomery, AL and surrounding area. (334) 313.1489 montgomerystorks@gmail.com www.montgomerystorksandmore.com

Flamingo-A-Friend

Periwinkles

8189 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Make your gift decisions from a large selection of popular items in our store. (334) 277.3570 shop.periwinkle@gmail.com

The Turtle Shell

160 W. Main St., Prattville Educational items including reading games, room decorations, math workbooks, gifts for birthdays, science kits, puzzles and music. (334) 358.0902 www.theturtleshell.com

Tucker Pecan Company

350 N McDonough St., Montgomery Come by and visit us for a unique selection of gifts, tumblers, jewelry and more. (334) 262.4470 www.tuckerpecan.com

Montgomery Choose from flamingos (assorted colors), smiley faces, cows & pigs, penguins, elephants, or footballs to fill your yard and surprise your birthday child when they awake. Set up before 6:30 a.m. and clean up by 6 p.m. Please call for rates. (334) 279.3737 http://www.flamingoafriendmontgomery.com

Happy Celebrating!

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Hats off to our graduates! We congratulate the Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School Class of 2018! Our 143rd graduating class includes 81 members who earned $5.3 million in scholarship offers from 26 colleges and universities across the country. One graduate received a Medical School acceptance in Korea. The top 20 percent of the class achieved an ACT Composite score of 28-35 and GPAs ranging from 3.87 to 4.33. Among our graduates are: a National Merit Finalist, 11 future college athletes, an AP Scholar, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Teen Volunteer of the Year, members of the First Place State Cyber Patriots team, Boys and Girls State attendees, and a Governor’s School attendee—as well as members of the All-State Choir, All-State Band, All-State Orchestra, All-State Jazz Band, and All-State Solo Competition. We’re so proud of the Class of 2018, who’ll carry a love of their school in their hearts forever.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School

Photo courtesy of Total Image

Grades K4 - 12 montgomerycatholic.org

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A Page in a Book It’s Just Your Imagination The marvel of the human mind is its ability to fill in blank or boring spaces with imagination. Seeing a parade of animals in the shifting of clouds overhead, making up a backstory for the stranger sitting on the park bench, or crafting alternate exploits that take beloved toys on all new adventures, these are some of the ways our mind moves beyond what is and into the realm of what could be. Imagination is the foundation of invention and creativity, as well as a healthy retreat from the everyday. The following titles celebrate the limitless vistas the mind can explore and the little things that can launch that journey!

Idea Jar

by Adam Lehrhaupt, Illustrated by Deb Pilutti (Simon & Schuster) The jar on the teacher’s desk is filled with ideas that are perfect for sparking young imaginations. Colorful characters and bold adjectives are written on scraps of paper just waiting to inspire an all new story. Armed with just a couple of words, students begin to craft the adventures of a space-faring Viking, a horseless cowgirl and more. The kids imagine new stories in written form, spoken word and art. But when the jar tips over, its ideas spilling out, the imagination overflow threatens to overwhelm the class. Advocating the value of imaginative focus, the Idea Jar offers ideal guidance for jump-starting imaginative journeys.

Use Your Imagination

by Nicola O’Byrne (Nosy Crow / Candlewick) Lamenting his boredom, a young rabbit is approached by a wolf with a solution. Claiming to be a librarian, Wolf suggests they write a story together. Observing what big ears Wolf has (better for listening to stories) and what big eyes he has (better for reading stories), Rabbit is reminded of another well-known tale. So as Wolf guides Rabbit through his imaginings, the evolving story’s setting (a forest), costuming (a red cape) and a villain (a wolf) all begin to point to a bad ending. With his own sly vision, Rabbit harnesses his powers of imagination and engages them to craft a new tale that flips the script on an old story that’s not boring at all.

Red Again

by Barbara Lehman (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Biking beside a wintery canal, a young boy discovers a red book on the ground. Scooping it up, he retreats to his ocean view reading spot to explore the found book. His first page view reveals a child in a boat...with a red book floating in the water nearby. Retrieving it from the water, the second child opens the book revealing a window back into the first boy’s canal side world. As the children marvel at their magical connection, the book watches their worlds draw closer. Author of the wordless Caldecott Honor title, The Red Book, Lehman returns with a brilliant follow-up that captures the power of imagination, as a simple action leads characters (and readers) on wonderful journeys that transcend reality.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Incredibles 2

Jurassic World:

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: A Profanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The beloved Parr family picks up right where we left off a little over a decade ago. The Underminer (voice of John Ratzenberger) has attacked the city and the Supers’ attempts to save the day have failed... once again. And, again, that means they are considered a threat to the populace. So much so that the government has given up on their funding, and has fired Rick Dicker (Jonathan Banks), the civil servant who protected superheroes when all went wrong. Holed up in a one-star motel, Bob Parr (voice of Craig T. Nelson), wife Helen (voice of Holly Hunter), daughter Violet (voice of Sarah Vowell), son Dash (voice of Huck Milner) and toddler Jack-Jack (voice of Eli Fucile) are dealing with the prospects of homelessness, unemployment and family friction. Yet, there’s still hope for this incredible family. Promoter Winston Deavor and his sister Evelyn (voices of Bob Odenkirk and Catherine Keener) have a long history with Supers and feel they must be allowed to work within society. Using their marketing skills, the pair of siblings launch a PR plan that puts Helen, aka Elastigirl, on center stage as the ideal superhero. On the downside, studies have revealed Bob is far more likely to cause collateral damage during his rescues, leading to negative headlines. So the envious husband is left at home with the kids. Essentially flipping the former story into a Mr. Mom scenario, the movie dives into action sequences with Helen taking on a bad guy who uses TV and other screens to hypnotize the population (a tad ironic, coming from Disney, which is fast becoming the largest media company on the planet). Meanwhile Bob deals with domestic drama. Violet’s crush on Tony (voice of Michael Bird) is being hampered by a need to keep family secrets. Dash is frustrated with trying to learn new math from an old school dad. And after dozing off when reading a bedtime story to his son Jack-Jack (whose abilities are not completely known), the youngster wanders off and has a raucous encounter with a backyard racoon. The divide-to-conquer scenario is similar to the first installment, only last time it was Bob who went off to hunt the villain. In both movies, the most entertaining and engaging part of the script is watching the antics happening at home. In this case, compared to the complex and abstract depiction of the foe faced by Elastigirl, switching back to Mr. Incredible dealing with the pressures of suburbia comes as comic relief in more ways than one. Likely to attract audiences of all ages, parents may be surprised by the intensity of the violence in this movie. A secondary character is shot at point blank range (we see the gun fire but don’t see the bullet’s impact) and mom’s discovery of the villain results in a frenetic scene of Taser-like electrocutions and bright flashes that may cause sensitive audience members discomfort. Also unexpected – and unnecessary – are a few mild profanities, including terms of deity, that just don’t fit the usual Disney/Pixar tone. So do the positives outweigh the negatives? Fortunately, yes, but not to the same extent as the original. The Parr’s still works together, both on and off the job, and the conclusion reinforces the benefits of everyone doing their part. Likewise, there are many humorous moments, especially when Bob visits Edna Mode (once again voiced by writer/director Brad Bird) to get some parenting advice and respite care. However, the film’s unnecessary violence and profanity, along with a complicated plot, makes it far less suitable for children. Perhaps most troubling is the overarching sense that the Parr family’s problems may represent Pixar’s own family troubles. We certainly hope this studio’s stellar track record of incredible family movies may recover and return to its former glory. Montgomery Parents I July 2018

Fallen Kingdom MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: A Profanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: B “I’m talking about man-made cataclysmic change,” warns Ian Malcolm (Jeff Goldblum) as he testifies before Congress about the implications of cloned dinosaurs. “You don’t know what it looks like ‘til you’re standing at the gates.” If you ever wondered how playing God with the genome of extinct dinosaurs could lead to cataclysmic change, you clearly haven’t watched the first four movies in the Jurassic Park series. But that’s okay – Jurassic Park: Fallen Kingdom graphically illustrates the deadly consequences. As the movie opens, Jurassic Park is in ruins and cloned dinosaurs roam freely on Isla Nublar and in the surrounding ocean. This pastoral paleontological paradise is now under threat because Mount Sibo, the heretofore dormant volcano, is on the verge of a major eruption which would produce an “extinction event” for all life on the island. Instead of seeing this as a “do over” for the mistake of re-introducing prehistoric animals to the modern ecosystem, dinosaur activists, led by Claire Dearing (Bryce Dallas Howard) are pressuring Congress to fund protective measures for the endangered animals. “An entire generation has grown up in a world where dinosaurs are living, breathing,” begins Claire’s earnest pitch, “But now they’re going to have to watch them go extinct. Or not.” Claire’s determination to save the dinosaurs is matched by Benjamin Lockwood (James Cromwell), who was responsible for cloning the animals and establishing Jurassic Park. Lockwood has found a new refuge for the endangered reptiles but needs help to round them up quickly. His assistant, Eli Mills (Rafe Spall) asks Claire to persuade her old partner Owen Grady (Chris Pratt) to return to Isla Nublar with her, restart the computer tracking system on the island, and help them rescue as many creatures as possible. Once Claire, Owen, veterinarian Zia Rodriguez (Daniella Pineda), and tech wizard Franklin Webb (Justice Webb) reach their destination, the action starts and never lets up. The volcano erupts, dinosaurs and people are shot with tranquilizer guns, humans try to outrun rampaging dinosaurs, and everyone tries to outrun the lava exploding out of the volcano. The action slows down slightly on board ship but picks up again once they arrive at their surprise relocation site. Claire, Owen, Zia and Franklin uncover treachery, greed and (spoiler alert) a plot to genetically engineer “weaponized dinosaurs” – creatures of surpassing strength and power who respond to human commands. The geneticist enabling this conspiracy has even produced a prototype dinosaur named the Indoraptor, which is designed to hunt, track and destroy. It should come as no surprise when this dinosaur, which looks like the Jurassic version of a meth head, escapes its cage and proceeds to hunt, track and destroy. Parents considering Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom for family viewing should take the PG-13 rating very seriously. The relentless violence and deadly peril faced by the characters make this movie unsuitable for small children. Adults may find themselves irked by paint-by-number action sequences, lazy writing, and plot holes big enough to push a T-rex through. However, teenagers looking for frenetic action, chase scenes, lots of excitement, and entertainment that brings back memories of imaginary adventures with toy dinosaurs, will likely enjoy escaping into this thrill ride in a neo-Jurassic world. 78

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Tonya Speed Dancers Perform for MPS

Some elementary school age dancers from various Montgomery Public Schools danced for the Superintendent, several board members and teachers to kick off the Summer School session. The dancers performed to a popular Whitney Houston song with lyrics “I Believe the Children are Our Future”. Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection offers classes at several Montgomery Public Schools during the school year.

Send your organization’s events and accomplishments to editor@montgomeryparents. com to be printed in an upcoming issue!

Montgomery Scouts Attend Summer Camp

Boy Scouts from Troop 307 in Montgomery completed summer camp in June. The boys spent a week at Camp Tukabatchee in Pine Level camping and participating in a myriad of activities. They had choices in merit badge classes including first aid, swimming, canoeing, kayaking, robotics, space exploration, geology, chemistry, electronics, shotgun shooting, orienteering and more. The boys range in age from 11 to 18 and attend various public, private and homeschools around the city. They meet at Aldersgate United Methodist Church on Tuesday evenings from 7-8 p.m.

9th Annual Little Miss & Miss River Region Pageant Set for August 25

The 9th Little Miss River Region Pageant will be held on Saturday, August 25, at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Fellowship Hall in Prattville. The pageant is open to females, age newborn to 18 years, with seven age categories. This is also an Open Preliminary pageant to the Sterling Miss USA Pageant for age categories Petite to Teen age divisions, ages 4 to 18 years. There are no area restrictions to compete. Sterling Miss USA will be back in Alabama this year and will be held April 6-7, 2019, at the Pell City Performing Arts Center in Pell City, Ala. Competition age categories for Miss River Region are: Baby Miss: newborn to 23 mos., Tiny Miss: 2-3 yrs., Petite Miss: 4-6 yrs., Little Miss: 7-9 yrs., Pre-Teen Miss: 10-12 yrs, Jr. Teen Miss: 13-15 yrs and Teen Miss 16- 18 yrs. Attire is formal wear only. For Baby Miss, formal wear is a short pageant dress. For Tiny Miss, a short or long pageant gown of choice. For Petite Miss and up, attire is a long pageant gown. Registration for Miss River Region is $70 and includes free entry into the Best Gown, Most Beautiful Hair and Eyes optionals. There are additional optional competitions with their own fees. Winners of these optionals in each age division win a crown and sash. A People’s Choice Crown and Sash will be awarded for the top two fundraisers in the Baby to Petite division and the Little to Teen Miss Division for the contestants who raises the most money for Children’s Miracle Network. Applications may be downloaded from www.SterlingMiss.org. Applications and registration payments are due no later than August 18. For more info, call (334) 313-5444. Sterling Miss USA queens for 2018 are shown. 79

Prattville YMCA Offers Summer Adapted Sports

Adapted sports clinics at the Prattville YMCA are geared for special needs from ages five to 65, who normally wouldn’t be able to be a part of sporting events. Two Friday nights a month during summer, with a different sport each month, the kids are walked through various stages of each sport. During June the sport was basketball. Kickball is scheduled for July, and football/cheerleading for August. Adapted is played in between spring Field of Dreams baseball and fall baseball to help bridge the gaps so these kids have an outlet and opportunity to become their own STARS! For more info, contact the Prattville YMCA or follow them on the Prattville Field of Dreams Facebook page. www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

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When your child throws a tantrum it is easy to get frustrated, overwhelmed, angry, and embarrassed, especially if the tantrum occurs in public. Unfortunately, the occasional tantrum cannot be avoided. While your child is in the throes of a fit, try to remember these tips.

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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a good idea to use bribes to stop a tantrum. “If you stop crying, I will buy you a toy” rewards the child for the tantrum. However, if your child is in the middle of a tantrum and listening to the same annoying song over and over again on the car ride home will help him calm down, this may be an exception you can live with.

It is normal The first thing to remember when your child has a tantrum is that it is normal. Tantrums are a normal way for kids to express their frustration when they may not be able to communicate their feelings appropriately. While this fact doesn’t make the tantrum any easier to deal with, it does help to know that, developmentally, this is a normal stage.

You are not alone Although it might feel like you are alone while your child has a fit at the grocery store, we have all been there. It is likely your child will have a tantrum in public at some point and it will be embarrassing and inconvenient, but it is generally unavoidable. Remind yourself again that it is normal for kids to have tantrums, leave the store if needed, and try to laugh about it later.

Do not engage During a tantrum the temptation can be to lecture, yell, or reason with the child. They cannot hear you or comprehend reason when they are in the middle of a tantrum. The best thing to do is to wait it out. If you do feel the need to discuss the situation with the child, wait until later when he or she is calm and ready to listen.

Use distraction, humor, and hugs

Leave the scene

During a tantrum, kids are not able to listen to reason but that doesn’t mean parents can’t try to wrap up the crying quickly. Try using a distraction like “Where is the ball?” or “Do you want to read a book?” Make a silly face to lighten the mood or turn on some music and begin a silly dance. For some kids a tight hug helps them to calm down when they are upset. Trying to help your child move past the tantrum can teach them methods for calming themselves down in the future. The situation that caused the tantrum can be discussed later if needed.

When your child starts to throw a tantrum, make sure they are safe, and then leave the area. Typically, if the child doesn’t have an audience to get a reaction from, the tantrum will cease. If you are not comfortable leaving the child alone, get busy doing other things and pretend to ignore them. If the tantrum happens in public, take the child to the car or the bathroom to calm down. If the tantrum continues and the child is unable to calm down, buckle them safely in their car seat and drive home.

Don’t doubt yourself

Consider triggers

There was a day when I had dealt with a particular horrible tantrum from my daughter and I began to blame myself. “What am I doing wrong? I am a terrible mom.” After expressing these things to a friend, she reminded me that I am not a bad mother, I am just having a bad day. It happens to all of us. Remain confident in your parenting and remind yourself you are doing the best you can. Tantrums happen to all parents. The next time your child has a terrible tantrum, try to stop and remember these tips. Ultimately the tantrum will end and your child will grow and learn to communicate more effectively. mp

Think about what triggered your child to get so upset in the first place. How can frustrating situations be avoided in the future? Of course, not all tantrums can be avoided but certain triggers can be removed. When armed with this information parents can be prepared to use distraction to lessen or avoid a future tantrum.

Don’t give in, except once in awhile Giving into a tantrum will do nothing but encourage future tantrums. If your child is throwing a tantrum because he wants to eat a cookie before dinner, do not give him the cookie. It is also not

Sarah Lyons is a Midwestern wife and mother of six children, including two year old triplets.

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The Best Things Under the Sun

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Every child on earth lives under the same sun. It illuminates their days, and even the moon reflects the sun’s glow at night. But beyond the light we see and the warmth we feel from the sun, the light from Earth’s star also provides boundless energy. Our kids are the generation that will see the broadest expansion of solar energy utilized in their living landscape. Introducing sunlight’s power and potential to kids offers an early understanding of their energy future. From solar panels to solar printing, the following items foster a brilliant exploration of the sun at its best.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Solar Power

SunPrint Kit

Harnessing a clean and abundant source of power, solar panels are a key component for using the sun’s energy. The Solar Power kit from Thames & Kosmos offers materials to assemble six solar models including a locomotive, single prop plane, bulldozer, helicopter, backhoe, and twin rotor helicopter. Each vehicle is powered by a solar panel with three solar cells that generate 1.5 volts of electricity in bright sunlight, like a AA battery. The panel is adjustable so it can be positioned to collect maximum light for maximum movement. Beyond the included models, the panel can also be used to power unique creations and even charge AA batteries. Combining solar science with innovative modeling, this kit shines a light on the sun’s energy and how it can run the world.

Every image, every photograph we see results from the composition and capture of light. The earliest photography essentially recorded an image on light sensitive paper. SunPrint revisits this process in its most basic form. Using the kit’s light sensitive paper, creative minds (young and old) can experiment with directing sunlight to expose a brilliant variety of images. From fern fronds and favorite toys to scissored shapes and stencils, objects laid on the photosensitive paper and exposed to sunlight for a few minutes leave their shape imprinted on the paper. Whisked into a saltwater bath to ‘fix’ the solar-generated image, the result is part art, part science and all kinds of amazing. Teaching the first fundamentals of photography, creating unique art and sparking scientific inquiry, The SunPrint Kit offers a captivating exploration of light and shadow.

(Thames & Kosmos)

(SunPrint)

T4 Transforming Solar Robot

Solar-Powered Rainbow Maker

Animated by solar power, the T4 Transforming Solar Robot is next level modelling for mechanically-minded youth. With just a few tools and a bit of patience, older kids can craft a variety of mobile robots that are powered by sunlight. Featuring cool components that can add moving jaws, walking legs, and rolling wheels to the robot, builders can choose operational modes for their model that include T-rex, insect, robot and driller. Assembling different forms requires a steady hand, so this kit is best appreciated by kid ten and up. Transforming young engineers’ understanding of solar power, the T4 Robot combines fun and sun in this learning adventure.

Bringing the science of sunlight right into the room, the Kikkerland Rainbow Maker uses swarovski crystals to translate natural light into the varied palette of colors that compose it. Attached to a sunny window the Rainbow Maker uses solar energy to propel gears that move the prism in the sunlight. The shape of a prism effectively bends sunlight and splits it into its component colors as light passes through it. In full sun, the twisting prism projects a colorful rainbow of light into the room. Much like the sunlight filtered through the clear remnants of rain to naturally create the massive rainbows in the sky, the Kikkerland Rainbow Maker simply draws down the process to a smaller scale, illuminating the room through solar science.

(Kikkerland

(OWI)

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

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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FamilyCalendar Sunday, July 1

Patriotic Concert in Prattville 6:30 p.m. Kicking off Prattville’s Independence Day Celebration, the Pops and Chorus will present a patriotic concert at the Pratt Park Amphitheater featuring patriotic music as a tribute to our country’s independence and those who have fought for our freedom. Bring your lawn chair and blankets for a family-friendly concert that is free and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov. Millbrook Community Theatre Presents Cinderella 2 p.m. Based on the fairy tale by Charles Perrault; directed by A. John Collier. A godmother, of the fairy variety, inquires of her two helpers about the neediest case in the kingdom. Not surprisingly, they introduce her to Ella, who, after being orphaned, was left in the care of her wicked stepmother and stepsisters. Wand in hand, Godmother sets about to change the girl’s life. With a dash of belief, a sprinkle of magic and a pinch of true love, Cinderella has her life changed for good. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www. millbrooktheater.com/.

A citywide choir will sing patriotic tunes, the cast of Annie will perform several famous songs from the musical, and 50 members of the River Region community will each read from the Declaration of Independence. For more info, call (334) 271-5353 or visit http://asf.net/.

p.m. at The Waters off Marler Road. SweetCreek Farm Market and Nancy’s Italian Ice will have food available for purchase, and Brandon Self will provide live music. As usual, blankets and lawn chairs are encouraged, and fireworks will begin just after dark. Cost is $10 per carload.

Grandview Family YMCA in Millbrook Hosts Independence Day Cookout and Fireworks 7:30 p.m. 4700 Camp Grandview Rd, Millbrook. As always, there will be a DJ and we will be serving up hot dogs and drinks while supplies last. Be sure to bring your chairs and blankets! Admission is only $1 per person.

Annual Community Club Fourth of July Parade Registration is FREE and begins at 8:30 a.m. at the Historic Pike Road School, 4710 Pike Road. The parade will begin at 9:30 a.m. and the theme is “United We Stand.”

Millbrook Farmers Market -- Tuesdays through August 14 8 a.m.-noon. Village Green Park, Millbrook. Just sign up for the giveaway at the Manager’s table

Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Independence Day Celebration 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Happy Birthday America! Join the Biscuits with a front row seat as we celebrate America with the largest

Find a listing of Public Library Storytimes and Events at

Music On The Deck -- Also July 15 4:30 p.m. Kowaliga Restaurant, Lake Martin. Great, live music on the deck with Sid Phelps July 1 and Britt and Kurt July 15! We’ll have some great appetizers, drinks and your favorite Kowaliga entrees! Visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 397-1019.

MontgomeryParents.com!

First Sundays at One -- Also August 5 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/.

Monday, July 2

Good Mornings at Frazer UMC -- Mondays through Thursdays through July 26 9 a.m.-noon. Frazer Activity Center. Good Mornings is a summer program for rising 1st-6th grade boys and girls. Kids will enjoy games, crafts, Bible devotions and more. Cost is just $6 per day (additional $2 for early drop off at 7:30 a.m.). No pre-registration required. Michael’s Camp Creativity -- Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays through July 27 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per one-hour session for ages 3+. Supplies included. $5 per one-hour session for ages 6+. Supplies included. New crafts each day; slime on Fridays; new themes each week; coloring pages. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/. Movie Mondays at Riverfront Park -Also July 9, 16 & 23 6 p.m. 335 Coosa St, Montgomery. Presented by Guardian Credit Union. Be sure to bring blankets and chairs. Vendors will be available and picnics are welcome. July 2: Peter Pan; July 9: The Secret Life of Pets; July 16: Cars; July 23: Star Wars: The Last Jedi. For more info, visit www.funinmontgomery.com or call (334) 625-2100.

Tuesday, July 3

Stars in the Park 7 p.m. Wynton M. Blount Cultural Park. Celebrate Independence Day with a FREE outdoor concert at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival! The concert commemorates Independence Day in conjunction with the City of Montgomery’s fireworks display.

when you arrive. Fresh from the Farm items include locally grown fruits, berries and vegetables as well as bakery items, Master Gardener Demonstrations, special activities and more. For more info, call (334) 285-6428 or find us on Facebook.

Wednesday, July 4

Fourth of July Blast: Concert and Fireworks The AMP on Lake Martin. Gates will open around 5. Gather with your family and friends on the Grassy Lawn and have some fun with our annual Twist Contest and Hula Hoop Contest! At 7 p.m. The Bank Walkers will perform, followed by Grains of Sand at 8. Fireworks will begin at 9 p.m. Tickets $10; children 6 and under free. For more info, visit www. theamponlakemartin.com/. Russell Marine 4th of July Boat Parade 10-11 a.m. Scores of boats will again parade from Kowaliga to Children’s Harbor in a festive and patriotic holiday display. Prizes will be awarded for Tallest Flag, Largest Flag, Most Creative Theme and Most Patriotic Crew. Two prizes will be awarded in each category. Get your crew together to decorate your boat, or enjoy the colorful parade from the shore. Call Kowaliga Marina at (334) 857-2111 or stop by any marina to register. Prattville’s Fourth of July Celebration Parade starts at 9 a.m. through downtown Prattville, ending at Pratt Park where the Lion’s Club will host its Annual BBQ fundraiser with music, a patriotic program, and arts and crafts. The Cardboard Boat Races, starting at 10:30 a.m., allow families to work together and compete in a fun swimming pool event. The day will end with a FREE concert at 7 p.m. at StanleyJensen Stadium featuring Creativity and a huge fireworks display beginning at dark. For more info, call (334) 595-0800 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov. Wetumpka 4th of July Fireworks 8:30 p.m. Gold Star Park. Sponsored by Wind Creek Casino & Hotel. Pike Road SummerFest Gates open at 4:30 p.m., and the fun begins at 5

Fireworks Show across all of Central Alabama. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Annie Through August 5 The sun will come out tomorrow! No one can resist the optimism of Annie – a little orphan girl who refuses to give up hope. The delightful cast of this feel-good musical will get toes tapping with memorable song-and-dance numbers, such as “It’s the Hard Knock Life,” “Easy Street,” and “Tomorrow.” Recommended ages 4+. For tickets or more info, visit asf. net or call (334) 271-5353.

Thursday, July 5

Earth’s Heart: Connecting Cultures -- Also July 12, 19 & 26 2:30 p.m. ArtWorks at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Explore the arts of different cultures. ArtWorks Educator Kelly Bazan will introduce young learners to the basic greetings, visual arts, music, clothing, and traditions of the country in focus (this month is Morocco). Connections will also be made to works in the Museum’s galleries. Classes are limited to 25 students. First come, first serve. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/.

Friday, July 6

Video Game Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. As a part of Video Game Night, the Biscuits will be hosting several E-Sports Tournaments in the Club Car Bar. Grab your squad and compete during the game to win great prizes! Fireworks following the game. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255. First Friday Cruise-Ins 5:30-7 p.m. LowerDexter 36 Dexter Ave, Montgomery. Local dealerships will have cars to showcase and a different car club will be featured each month! Check out www.lowerdexter.org for more information and a chance to have YOUR car featured on the

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FamilyCalendar lower block. Join us for some family-friendly fun on Lower Dexter! Call (334) 273-0313 for more info. Arti Gras at Lake Martin -- Also July 7 12:30-8:30 p.m. Friday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday. The seventh annual Arti Gras at Russell Crossroads will be held on the Town Green. Artisans and patrons from all over gather for this vast annual display of handmade goods. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more! If you would like a vendor application, contact Tyler Mitchell at tmitchell@ russelllands.com for more info. Also visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com/. Friday on the Green -- Also July 13, 20 & 27 6:30-8:30 p.m. Town Green at Russell Crossroads on Lake Martin. Grab the kids, the pup on a leash, your cooler, etc,. and join us for outdoor live music. The Bank Walkers perform July 6; John Bull July 13; Clay Barker July 20; and C2 and the Brothers Reed July 27. For more info, visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 397-1019.

Saturday, July 7

Tour of Lanark Hike at Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook Hike some of Lanark’s 5 miles of trails with an experienced ANC naturalist by your side. S aturday programs are from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Guests encouraged to arrive by 10 a.m. to enjoy the first of the day’s activities. Take a look around the hands-on Discovery Hall, enjoy the movie specials in the theater, and explore the trails. General admission applies: $5/ person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. The State of the South: Montgomery 10-11:30 a.m. Kress on Dexter, 39 Dexter Avenue, Montgomery. Through one-on-one interviews, group story circles, and town halls, the State of the South creative team seeks to answer: Who is the South? What is the South? Where is the South? Tell us your story. People from all walks of life and of all shapes, sizes, colors and capabilities are welcome. While the conversation thrives on participation, all activities and discussions are optional. Wear comfortable attire and feel free to bring a notebook and/or nonalcoholic beverages. For more info, visit http://bit.ly/ sots2018. Christmas in July at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball 6:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Christmas comes early to Riverwalk Stadium. Get in the Christmas spirit and experience a night of giving as we deliver presents all night long. Fireworks following the game. For more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. All locations. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Today’s project is a fishing game. Once your fishing game is built, you and your child can decorate it with paint and stickers. In addition to the newly constructed project kit, each child receives a kidsized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://workshops.homedepot.com/ workshops/kids-workshops. Michael’s Kids Club -- Also July 14, 21 & 28 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies included. Ages 3-8. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. July 7 is Under the Stars; July 14 is Summer Souvenirs; July 21 is Jamboree; and July 28 is Campfire Stories. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/.

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes -Every Saturday Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Civil Rights Walking Tours -- Every Saturday and Sunday 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. start times. Tours start from The Village Gallery. Come explore Montgomery’s history walking from different historical sties and engage in profound moments from slavery, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. This tour highlights pioneers and unsung heroes who contributed to a new era. Cost: Adults - $10; 12 & under $5; 4 & under FREE. Book your tour by calling (334) 595-9243. Prattville Farmers’ Market -- Saturdays through August 25 7 a.m.-noon. 332 Doster Road in Prattville, across from Gillespie Center and Pratt Park. Fresh locally grown fruits and vegetables, homemade baked goods, fresh Prattville honey, plants, flowers, music and fun. For more information, contact the Special Events Office at (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov/special-events/farmersmarket.html. Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market Saturdays through September 29 7 a.m.-noon. near Dillard’s. Several popular farms with locally grown products, including Aplin Farms, Oakview Farms, Penton Farms, Leatherwood Nursery and many more! For more info, call (334) 2796046 or visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com/ farmersMarket/.

Sunday, July 8

Reflections of a Dying Christian 6 p.m. Frazer UMC Sanctuary. John Geiger, a former international missionary and long-time Christian educator here in Montgomery, was diagnosed with ALS in the summer of 2017. Even as John’s body has begun to weaken through his illness, God has strengthened him with a powerful message about what really matters and how we ought to live in light of eternity. You will not want to miss this night of worship featuring John’s message of faith and hope. For more info, call (334) 495-6397 or visit http:// frazer.church/.

Monday, July 9

Back to School Boot Camp for High Schoolers Through July 13 9:30 a.m.-noon. Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library, 245 High Street. Students in grades 6-12 will engage in a week-long, 2.5 hour daily boot camp of learning about the library’s resources and services for homework assignments, research, and test taking, along with computer classes. Students attending the entire week will be rewarded on the last day with school supplies and a certificate of completion. Lunch provided.

Tuesday, July 10

Alabama 4-H & Elmore County Extension Office Offer Yoga in the Park -- Also July 17 9-11 a.m. Gold Star Park, Wetumpka. FREE. Call (334) 567-6301 for more info, find them on Facebook or register online at al.4honline.com.

Creekwalk Concert Series -- Also July 24 6:30 p.m. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy a concert as the sun sets over Autauga Creek in Prattville. Local shops and eateries will be open along with vendors on site. These concerts are free, family-friendly, and open to the public. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www. prattvilleal.gov. FREE SWAG Summer Enrichment Camp for 4th-8th graders in Elmore County -- Through August 4 Noon-3 p.m. Rodgers Chapel AME Zion Church, 609 W Bridge St., Wetumpka. Free drug prevention and life skills program for 4th-8th graders. Elmore County residents only. Snacks provided. Sports, games, activities and field trips. For more info, call (334) 262-1629.

Wednesday, July 11

Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Noon-1 p.m. Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/. 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. Children’s Summer Matinees at The Capri Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays through July 27 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. All seats $2. July 11-13 movie is The Croods (PG); July 18-20: The Boss Baby (PG); and July 25-27: Horton Hears a Who (PG). For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Thursday, July 12

Capri Theatre Presents Grease Sing-a-Long 7:30 p.m. The classic starring John Travolta and Olivia Newton-John. For more info, visit www. capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858. Archives Host Annual Alabama in the Movies Summer Film Festival -- Also July 19, 26 & August 2 6 p.m. in the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History’s air-conditioned Joseph M. Farley Alabama Power Auditorium. This four-week festival features movies filmed or set in Alabama, as well as films starring Alabama actors. Admission is FREE! Concessions provided by Chris’ Hot Dogs, the Friends of the Alabama Archives, and other local vendors will be available for purchase beginning at 5:30. July 12 movie: Close Encounters of the Third Kind (1977) Rated PG; July 19: Fried Green Tomatoes (1991) Rated PG-13; July 26: Selma (2014) Rated PG-13; and August 2: Hidden Figures (2016) Rated PG. For more info, visit www.archives.alabama.gov or call (334) 242-4364.

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Memory Cafe at Whole Foods 10-11 a.m. Whole Foods, 1450 Taylor Rd., Montgomery. Whole Foods and Dementia Friendly Alabama have partnered to host Memory Cafés, which are social engagement opportunities for people with dementia and their care partners to come together and just have some fun. Dementia is a socially isolating disease so it’s important for people to participate in social engagement opportunities like this. At any given café, organizers encourage attendees to not focus on the disease and have fun with the group. For more info, call Stephanie @ (334) 240-4680.

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Family Tennis Nights 6-8 p.m. O’Connor Tennis Center, 500 Anderson St., Montgomery. Bring your whole family to a fun and FREE Family Tennis Night in Montgomery! We’ll provide equipment and food, and your family can learn some tennis skills! Sign up at www. familytennisnight.com or call (334) 240-4884 for more info. Real Encounter Moto Stunt Show Frazer UMC parking lot. Fun for the whole family and an inspiring message. Food will be available at 5 p.m. including “That’s My Dog” truck and Nancy’s Italian Ice; show starts at 6:30 p.m. This free event for the whole community will cap off the “Amped” VBS week for rising 1st-6th graders. For more info, e-mail pcofield@frazer.church or visit http://frazer. church/. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also July 27 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a nonprofit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http://www. onlineecho.com.

Saturday, July 14

Animal Track Casting at Alabama Nature Center 11:30 a.m. Here we will learn about the types of tracks different animals make such as raccoons, foxes, deer, and turkey! Bring the kids and even make your own cast of an animal track to take home. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. EAT South Farmily Day 9-11 a.m. EAT South, 485 Molton Street, Montgomery. July Farmily Day is going to feature yoga and DIY solar oven making for taking home. There will be a brief lesson about the science behind solar ovens as well as a brief vegetable harvest and solar oven cooking demo. We will provide water and sprinklers. Please wear a hat, appropriate clothing and shoes you do not mind getting dirty. Bring sunscreen and a snack! For more info, call (334) 422-9331 or find us on Facebook.

CHILDREN A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY

and at Children’s of Alabama, we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential. That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine. 1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H B I R M I N G H A M , A L 3 5 2 3 3

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Whole Foods Second Saturday Kids Club 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Whole Foods, 1450 Taylor Rd., Montgomery. Looking for something fun to do with the kids? Each second Saturday, Whole Foods will host fun, hands-on craft activities to teach kids about

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FamilyCalendar healthy eating. It’s totally free, and every participant gets a piece of fruit and whatever they make in the workshop! For more info, call (334) 523-2940 or visit www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/montgomery. Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www.facebook.com/events/1374454692792666 /?source=1. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and preregistration required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer. morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www. secondsaturday.com. AMC Theaters Offers SensoryFriendly Movietimes -Also July 28 For guests and families living with autism or other special needs, AMC partners with the Autism Society to offer unique movie showings where we turn the lights up, and turn the sound down, so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or sing! This program is available on second and fourth Saturdays (family-friendly) and Tuesday evenings (mature audiences) of every month. Please check your local theatre listings for specific showtimes, and don’t forget to share your family fun with #AMCSensoryFriendly.

Monday, July 16

Art Camp in Prattville -- Through July 20 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Creative Arts Center next to Prattville City Hall. A variety of art media will be introduced in this fun summer art camp for students, ages 7-12 years. Campers will be able to get creative with painting, clay, collage, sculpture and more. Price is just $75 for the week and supplies are included. To register or for more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov. Adaptive Tennis Summer Camp 2018 -Through July 20 6-7 p.m. O’Connor Tennis Center, 500 Anderson Street, Montgomery. For more info, call (334) 4141980 or visit www.dreamcourt.org/. Back to School Boot Camp for Grades 3-5 Through July 20 9:30 a.m.-noon. Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library, 245 High Street. Students in grades 3-5 will engage in a week-long, 2.5 hour daily boot camp of learning about the library’s resources and services for homework assignments, research, and test taking, along with computer classes. Students attending the entire week will be rewarded on the last day with school supplies and a certificate of completion.

Tuesday, July 17

Joe Thomas, Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7-9 p.m. Three or four regional songwriters perform

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

original music on the Cloverdale Playhouse’s intimate stage. Tickets are $10 at the door. Call 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Barber Elite Soccer Camp -- Through July 19 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Hampstead Sports Field. For ages 6-12. Cost is $125. For more info, visit www. barberelitesoccer.com/.

Wednesday, July 18

Alabama 4-H & Elmore County Extension Office Offer Poultry Day Camp 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Elmore County Extension Office. $10 per day (pre-registration required). Call (334) 567-6301 for more info, find them on Facebook or register online at al.4honline.com. See Me: Exploring Self-Portraits at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 p.m. This exciting new program designed for students with special needs includes an exploration of portraits in the galleries followed by a visit to ArtWorks, where we will see ourselves in the mirrors of a giant kaleidoscope and the Tannenbaum digital screen. Afterward, participants will create mixed-media self-portraits. This program is free and designed for ages 6 and older. To register, please contact Brandy Morrison at edsecy@mmfa.org. Military Wednesdays at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball -- Also August 1 & 8 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. The Biscuits will honor our service men and women throughout the game each Wednesday with special recognition, discount concessions and more! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255. Artful Yoga at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Also August 1 Noon-1 p.m. Does your yoga practice need a little artistic inspiration? Join us for this new program to stretch, reflect and relax. Each Artful Yoga session will draw inspiration from collections and exhibitions of the Museum. Led by instructor Nancy Beale. The class is free and suitable for all levels; beginners are welcome. Bring your yoga mats and wear comfortable clothing. For more info, visit https://mmfa.org/ discover/artful-yoga/ or call (334) 240-4333.

Thursday, July 19

Food For Thought Noon-1 p.m. The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “Sorry about That, Gloria: Southern Living Encounters the Women’s Movement,” presented by Melissa Blair. Call (334) 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Capri Theatre Presents Rebel without a Cause 7:30 p.m. James Dean is the bad boy from a good family. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858. Alabama 4-H & Elmore County Extension Office Offer Healthy Cooking Day Camp 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Elmore County Extension Office. $10 per day (pre-registration required). Call (334) 567-6301 for more info, find them on Facebook or register online at al.4honline.com. Cloverdale Playhouse Theatre Presents The Hobbit Through July 29 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sunday matinees. Tickets only $12! For more info, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530.

Wetumpka Depot Presents Hands on a Hardbody Through August 4 7:30 p.m. performances with 2 p.m. matinees July 22 and 29. Book by Doug Wright; lyrics by Amanda Green; music by Trey Anastasio and Amanda Green; directed by Kristy Meanor. For ten hard-luck Texans, a new lease on life is so close they can touch it. Under a scorching sun for days on end, armed with nothing but hope, humor and ambition, they’ll fight to keep at least one hand on a brand-new truck in order to win it. For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com.

Friday, July 20

First Responders Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. On this night, the Biscuits want to honor and recognize all first responders in the River Region area. Fireworks following the game. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255. Alabama’s Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday Through July 22 From 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 20, until midnight, Sunday, July 22, Alabama shoppers have the opportunity to purchase qualifying school supplies, computers, books and clothing free of the state’s four percent sales or use tax.

Saturday, July 21

Third Saturday @ Art Museum 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the works of art on view at the Museum in these FREE docent-led tours offered the third Saturday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/. Radical Raptors at Alabama Nature Center 11:30 a.m. Come learn about birds of prey! The Alabama Wildlife Center will be out with their raptors. Learn about these fascinating creatures and their conservation concerns and threats. Daily admission is $5/person with a $20 maximum per family. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 8229453. Confederate Memorial Park Camp of Instruction Confederate Memorial Park, 437 Co Rd 63, Marbury. Members of the 33rd Alabama Infantry will be on duty all day giving demonstrations and answering questions on soldier life during the war. For more info, call (205) 755-1990. Millennial Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball 6:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Time to celebrate the health conscious, tech savvy, socially oriented generation at the ballpark! Featuring superfood options, a millennial communication area, cord cutting stations, and more! There will also be MAX fireworks following the game. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 3232255.

Sunday, July 22

Animal Enrichment Day at the Montgomery Zoo 10 a.m.-2 p.m. From zoo animals to our pets at home and even including us, we all need enrichment. A chance to smell a new scent, taste a new flavor, play a new game or figure out a challenging

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process in this unique program designed for artists in the area as well as those interested in art. This series of events (July 26, September 27 and November 29) is $14 for the remainder of sessions. Participants are invited to bring one work of art to each ARTtalk session for discussion. Enjoy light refreshments and networking with other professionals in this unique program whether or not you choose to bring artwork. To register, please contact Brandy Morrison at edsecy@mmfa.org or call (334) 625-4365.

Cloverdale Playhouse Auditions for Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead -- Also July 23 6:30 p.m. each night. All roles in this production are open to actors of any gender or ethnicity. (Please use your natural dialect in your audition.) Please prepare a Shakespeare monologue (can be comedic or dramatic, just pick one that you feel good about!). Performance dates are October 11-21. For more info, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530.

Union Springs Red Door Theatre Presents Steel Magnolias -- Through July 29 7:30 p.m. performances except for 2:30 p.m. matinee. Tickets are $15 and may be ordered at (334) 738-8687 or www.reddoortheatre.org.

Kids Day/Bark in the Park at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball -- Also July 29 5:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Kids 14 and under can play catch on the field before the game and run the bases after the final out presented by Coca-Cola. Bring your four-legged companion to the game for free and enjoy special dog-themed promotions all game long! One dog per adult. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255.

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents The Secret Garden -- Through August 12 This musical is a family favorite and is suitable for all ages. The Secret Garden is based on the novel by Frances Hodgson Burnett, with music and lyrics by Marsha Norman, music by Lucy Simon and presented through special arrangement with Samuel French. Tickets are $12 in advance and $14 at the door (if available) and can be purchased by calling (334) 595-0854 or online at cc.prattvilleal.gov.

Monday, July 23

Friday, July 27

Back to School Boot Camp for Grades K-2 Through July 27 9:30 a.m.-noon. Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library, 245 High Street. Students in grades K-2 will engage in a week-long, 2.5 hour daily boot camp of learning about the library’s resources and services for homework assignments, research, and test taking, along with computer classes. Students attending the entire week will be rewarded on the last day with school supplies and a certificate of completion.

Tuesday, July 24

Checkers & Chess Camp -- Through July 26 9 a.m.-1 p.m. LAFGamCo. is hosting a series of events this summer at the Hampstead Bocce Pavilions. Kids ages 6-12 can learn chess and checkers at the day camps. For more info, visit www. hampsteadliving.com/.

Wednesday, July 25

Alabama 4-H & Elmore County Extension Office Offer Archery Day Camp 8:30-11 a.m. Elmore County Extension Office. $5 per day (pre-registration required). Call (334) 567-6301 for more info, find them on Facebook or register online at al.4honline.com.

Thursday, July 26

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. Learn how to perk up your food with vinegars and olive oils. Ed Gannon, owner of The Vintage Olive in Peppertree Place, will be our guest speaker. They sell wonderful fruit and infused oils and vinegars. The Vintage Olive is a longtime door prize sponsor for Newcomers Club and we truly appreciate their regular gifts. Cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, July 23, to Suzanne Lowry at (334) 396-5368 or zanzuzan@charter.net. Visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com for more info. ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Join this bi-monthly program for Museum members during which artists share one artwork apiece and receive feedback from their peers. Get an up-close look at artists, their work, and the creative

Moonlight Movies on The Green

7-9 p.m. Shoppes at EastChase, located adjacent to Pies and Pints.This free familyfriendly event features an outdoor showing of Coco, beginning at sunset. Enjoy food and drinks from a variety of different local vendors. Bring your chairs, blankets, and even pups out for a perfect family movie night at The Shoppes! For more info, visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com/. Hampstead Family Game Night 6-8 p.m. LAFGamCo. is hosting a series of events this summer at the Hampstead Bocce Pavilions. Tonight is a Giant Lego Build Competition. For more info, visit www.hampsteadliving.com/.

Saturday, July 28

Compass Course at Alabama Nature Center 11:30 a.m. Join one of our naturalists as we learn some compass basics. Then we will head outdoors and visit a compass course to test our skills! Great for all ages but best for children ages 6 and up. Compasses and materials will be provided. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. 14th Annual Relay for Health and Wellness 8 a.m.-noon. Mt. Gillard Baptist Church, 3323 Day Street, Montgomery. Vendors include Alabama Dept. of Public Health, Medicaid, RWC Wealth Management,▪ Montgomery County City Library, Man Up Wise Up, Dynamic Physique Fitness, Montgomery Community Police, Health Service Inc., Healthcare Testing Solutions, byouonwheels, Alpha Rho Zeta Stork’s Nest and Life South Blood Mobile. For more info, call (334) 233-8750 or e-mail Choona.Lang@ adph.state.al.us. Star Wars Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball 6:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. The Force Awakens! Come meet some of your favorite Star Wars characters from across all the movies, participate in a pre-game costume parade, in-game

Star Wars costumes, and more. There will also be MAX fireworks following the game. For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 3232255.

Sunday, July 29

Shindig at Winter Place 4-7 p.m. Cottage Hill Historic District, 454 S Goldthwaite St., Montgomery. FREE event featuring live music by The Sea of Cities. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, family and friends, and join us for a fun summer afternoon with good music, food + drinks, art and more. Donations greatly appreciated, but not required. Benefitting Child Protect, Childrens Advocacy Center. Vendors include Frios Gourmet Pops and That’s My Dog Montgomery. For more info, call (334) 262-1220 or find us on Facebook.

Tuesday, July 31

Dollar Dog Tuesdays at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Every Tuesday, fans can purchase hot dogs for only $1! For more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com/ or call (334) 323-2255.

Saturday, August 4

Annual AWF Youth Fishing Rodeo at Alabama Nature Center Fishing begins at 7 a.m. Bring the kids, a few fishing poles, and a cooler and join us down at the catfish pond! Children 15 and under can catch and take home up to 5 catfish each (catfish only), but can catch and release all they want! Each child will receive a free T-shirt and a chance to win a door prize! Make sure to call ahead (334-285-4550) and put your name on the list, since space fills up quickly! Admission is free; snacks and drinks will also be available. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife. org/. Teddy Bear Clinic

10 a.m.-2 p.m. Montgomery Zoo. Everyone needs a checkup now and then; humans, animals and stuffed animals alike. Bring your favorite stuffed animal friend and let your furry friend be checked out by our vet staff, receive Band-Aids on any boo boos, repair any rips, and get an overall clear bill of health. Children 12 years old and younger and their stuffed animal (plush toy) receive FREE ADMISSION with a regular paying adult (one FREE child admission for every paying adult admission). Visit with zoo vet staff and learn how they take care of all the zoo animals, from the smallest birds to the largest elephant. For more info, visit www. montgomeryzoo.com/ or call (334) 240-4909. Old Cahawba True Crime Walking Tour 10-11 a.m. Old Cahawba Archaeological Park, 9518 Cahaba Rd, Orrville, Ala. History tells us that Cahawba grew from of a frontier capital into a prosperous center of wealth and culture, home to some of the most affluent families in the state. Despite its short-lived grasp on prosperity, Cahawba was a frontier town that had never lost its frontier mentality. From feuding families delivering street justice to colorful characters threatening to assassinate the President, Cahawba’s corruption will be revealed on this one hour guided walking tour. Admission is $8 per person. Call (334) 872-8058 for more info or visit www.ahc.alabama.gov or www.facebook.com/ oldcahawba.

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FamilyCalendar Sunday, August 5

Wake Up and Smell the Coffee 2-5 p.m. The Prattauga Art Guild presents live music, local art, and readings by local authors. This event is free and open to the public. Coffee, snacks, soft drinks and water will be available for a small donation to the art guild special projects fund. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.

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

Childbirth Preparation (Four Sessions on Monday Nights) This four-session class is taught by Registered Labor and Delivery Nurses on the campus of Baptist South. This class for new mothers covers topics ranging from how your body changes during pregnancy to signs of labor to the benefits of breastfeeding and what to expect during your birth experience. This class is complimentary. To register, call (334) 286-3466. Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-ofcharge as a service to the community. For more info or to register, contact April Ma at 2443018 or ama@aum.edu.

Breastfeeding Class This one-time class at Baptist Health provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. E-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

Cloverdale Playhouse Rep Class Series First Mondays every month from 6:30-8 p.m. in the Cloverdale Playhouse Rehearsal Hall. This is a safe space to work on your craft, develop your audition skills, share your newest piece, or just get feedback on your latest artistic endeavor. Guest panels and rotating faculty ensure constant growth and a variety of insight. Even if you don’t perform every time - you can learn a lot by observing! There will be a sign-up sheet if you would like to work. Call (334) 262-1530 with questions.

Caring For Your Newborn Taught by Baptist Health Newborn Nursery nurses, this one-time class helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 747-7700 Option # for more information.

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.

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

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 --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 747-7700 Option # for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of

children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@ gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@ alabamachild.org. Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst. org for more info. Maternity Area Tour Baptist Health’s Maternity Area Tour is for parents not attending Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp. Tour is offered on select Saturdays of each month and is complimentary. Tour is for adults only. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by well-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. Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 293-8497 or e-mail: liz.owen@jackson.org. Sibling Preparation Class One-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn

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SupportGroups 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. 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 July 18 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info. Wetumpka Line Dance Classes held at A Chance to Dance, 68 Queen Ann Road, Wetumpka. Country and Non-Country Music for All Ages! CURRENT CLASS SCHEDULE: Mon. Beginner 7:15 p.m.; Wed. Beginner 10 a.m.; Wed. Senior 2 p.m.; Wed. Intermediate 7 p.m.; Fri. High Beginner/ Intermediate 7 p.m. *Open Dance to Follow Class. For more info, call (334) 552-2040.

Support Groups Adoption Support

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

Divorce Support

DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Come to the Library area. This group will provide support & guidance to assist you in working through the issues, pain & pressures surrounding divorce. For more info, call 495-6350 or e-mail jan@frazerumc.org. DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc. org or 241-5125.

Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 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 @ 6 p.m. and Mondays @ 6:30 p.m.: meet at Cedarwood Community Church, 10286 US Hwy. 231 N in the Wetumpka/Wallsboro community. The church is 1 1/2 miles past Tutweiler prison on the same side of the street. Sundays @ 5 p.m.: meet at Mental Health of America, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. For more information about the GA meetings, call (334) 399-6918. For information about counseling services or to request a guest speaker, please call the Alabama Council on Compulsive Gambling at (334) 277-5100.

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. Bereavement Group, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. For more info, call 279-6677. Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721. Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 495-6350 for more info. GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is 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. 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. River Region Survivors of Suicide Loss meets on second and fourth Thursdays (excluding holidays) at Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road in Montgomery from 6:30-8 p.m. This is an open group for those who have lost a loved one to suicide and welcomes anyone regardless of religious beliefs. Contact Cheryl Vinson at riverregionsos@gmail.com with questions or for more information.

Homeschool Support

ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. 2nd and 4th Fridays yearround 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 495-6350. 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. 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 on Mental Illness) 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 7205 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for details. NAMI also presents a 12-week series of free classes on mental illness. These classes are for family members living with or supporting individuals with mental illness. To register, call Mary Jo at 271-2280 or e-mail classicmjl@hotmail.com. NAMI Connection (National Alliance on Mental Illness) is a support group for individuals with mental illness. It meets every Thursday from 6-7:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Call Mary Jo Logan at 271-2280 for more info. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, check-

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SupportGroups ing 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.

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

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.

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

Post-abortion Support Group, Saint James United Methodist Church. Do you have a secret you have promised yourself “you are taking to the grave?” Come and listen to stories of others who were scared to surrender their secret. Come and find healing and peace that you never even knew you needed. Come and learn about the One who came to set you free. Join us in a study of “Surrendering the Secret” by Pat Layton and know that you are not alone! (Learner guide and digital download sessions.) For more info, e-mail annpemberton@charter.net.

motivating parents to move their child’s disability to an ability. Follow DATS MOM on Facebook, Twitter and Periscope for live sessions and discussion. E-mail datsmom@yahoo.com for more information. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome. com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more

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.

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Single Parents Support

God Will Make a Way, Frazer UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. Learn to follow God’s principles to thrive relationally, emotionally, and spiritually in 12 key areas of life and use God’s wisdom to cope with your most difficult problems. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info. Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800. Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many 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.

Special Needs Support

Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. 2018 pageant date TBA. Visit www.alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook! Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. D.A.T.S. M.O.M. (Disability as an Ability Toward Success: Moms on the Move), a free online parent empowerment network for parents of children on the autism spectrum (or with related special needs challenges) that focuses on inspiring, equipping and

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. A Parent’s Perspective A therapeutic and educational group for parents of children with physical/emotional needs that provides direct support through shared experiences and coordinated by a trained facilitator. For more info and a free consultation, contact Julie Cox, LMSW at (334) 310-1649 or juliecox.sw@gmail.com. You can also “like” A Parent’s Perspective on Facebook. 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.

Teens/Families Support

Call Family Guidance Center of Alabama at 2704100 for information about current classes. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling by leaving a message at (334) 625-0159.

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

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

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Family Guidance Center, 65

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 49

First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 55

Party Posse, 67

Frazer Memorial UMC, 50

Prattville YMCA, 41

Frazer UMC Upward Flag Football, 18

Professional Pediatrics, 12

Guild Mortgage, 2

Pump It Up Party, 69

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 35

Redland Baptist Church MMO, 46

Hooper Academy, 64

RR Dermatology and Laser, Inside Back

IEPA Academy, 32

River Region TV, 74

Inflatables of Montgomery, 22

Riverview Camp for Girls, 33

Jackson Hospital, 9

Rockin’ Jump, 63

Jim ‘n Nicks, 20

Saint James School, 1

Kingry Orthodontics, 58

Saint James UMC, 59

Lakeview Baptist Church, 67

Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 77

Learning Tree Child Care, 73

Shade Tree Riding Stables, 28

Little Lights Creative Learning Ctr, 32

Spotless Cleaning Services, 11

Lola Photography & Portrait Studio, 23

St. John’s Episcopal Choir, 22

Macon East Academy, 21

Success Unlimited Academy, 38

Chapman Orthodontics, 42

Mathnasium, 36

Swim Prep, 43

Child Evangelism Fellowship, 45

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 51

Sylvan Learning Center, 42

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 85

Montessori @ Mulberry, 17

Taylor Road Baptist Church, 72

Churchill Academy, 31

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 15, 75

The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Cupcake Castles Travel, 14

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 71

Tomatino’s Pizza/Cafe Louisa, 52

Dance Generation, 29

Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, 47

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 49

Dentistry for Children, 51

Montgomery Storks and More, 19

Trinity Presbyterian School, 13, 61

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 20

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 37

Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 14

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 46

New Hope Academy, 43

United Gymstars & Cheer, 21

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 72

New Park, 4

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 26

Emergency Solutions, 32

Newtopia, 3

Vaughn Park Preschool, 57

Evangel Christian Academy, 19

OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 69

Victory Christian Academy, 44

Abrakadoodle, 41 Adventure Sports II, 29 Alabama Christian Academy, 27 Alabama Dance Theatre, 28 AL Dept. of Health, Inside Front, 7 Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 53 Alabama Vacation Home Rentals, 64

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MP: You mentioned that you were raised in a strict and loving home. In what ways did your parents foster the close-knit bond you have with your family? And do you and William plan to practice some of the same things in your own home? Shana: Growing up we spent a lot of time together as a family and with close friends. We spent weekends at the lake, attended everyone’s sporting events, and just enjoyed playing outside. There was no internet, and in fact, for the longest time, my parents never had cable or an answering machine for the home phone, which as a teenager I thought was crazy. It’s funny that now I want to go back to those days. William and I joke that when the girls start asking for a phone, we are going to introduce them to a home land line to have as their phone. As parents we want them to enjoy the simple pleasures, like being outside and spending time with others.

Shana Phillips

MP: You love to bake and now you bake with Lillian and Isabelle.

What is one of your favorite recipes to make together? MP: Shana, as a mother to five kids and one on the way, how do you keep your energy up to be able to manage your household?

Shana: We bake our Gooey Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies

together and they never last! Here’s my recipe: 2 sticks unsalted butter, softened 3/4 c granulated sugar 3/4 c dark brown sugar 2 eggs 1/2 tbs vanilla 1 tsp baking soda 1 tsp kosher salt 2 1/4 c all purpose flour 2 c quick oats 1 pack semi sweet chocolate chips Preheat oven to 375. Mix together wet ingredients, add baking soda and salt. Slowly add flour and then the oats and chocolate chips. Line 2 baking sheets with parchment paper and scoop on about 2 tbs cookie dough per cookie. The key is the baking time. Bake for 7-9 minutes, remove from oven and let the cookies rest on the cookie sheet for an additional 4 minutes then transfer to a cooling rack! Eat and Repeat!

Shana: At least one or two cups of coffee every morning gets me started, but it’s maintaining the energy that’s the challenge. I try and work out at the YMCA at least two days a week, which I find really helps with my energy and mood for the entire week, and plus it’s free babysitting! Not to mention, I have an awesome family and husband to step in when things get a little too crazy for me to handle alone.

MP: What’s your biggest challenge as a mother to many children?

MP: You and your husband, William, chose adoption before trying for a biological child. What convinced you to make that decision?

Shana: Being a mom of multiples I always struggle with not spending enough time with each child individually. But probably my biggest challenge is making sure I am still a good wife and that my husband gets the good parts of me too, and not just the leftovers.

Shana: I have always had a special love for children, which led me to my career choice as a pediatric nurse. Right out of college, I started working on a step down ICU at Birmingham Children’s Hospital. I witnessed a lot of children without families to care for them and in need of a loving home. At this same time, I also had a new cousin added to our family through adoption from China. William and I were just dating at the time, but seeds were being planted and we knew one day our family would grow by adoption. After we were married a few years and moved back to Montgomery, we started talking about starting our family. Our church started an orphan care/adoption class around the same time. We heard many testimonies from missionaries, foster parents and adoptive parents, and together we both heard God asking, “Why not now?” After lots of prayer we decided adoption would be our first choice, so we started the paperwork and eight months later had beautiful twin girls. When the girls were two we started trying to get pregnant and were sent to a fertility specialist for unexplained infertility. They started me on fertility medicines and after a couple of months we were shocked to be expecting triplets. And just when we thought our family was complete, we have a little surprise baby coming in September.

Montgomery Parents I July 2018

MP: Shana, what advice would you offer some of our readers who are beginning their parenting journey? Shana: One of the best things I ever heard when I was just beginning my parenting journey was to remember that in Proverbs it says to “train” up a child in the way they should go. Parenting is daily training just like training for a marathon. Kids don’t come out knowing how to run the marathon just like we as parents haven’t a clue at first what we are doing. It can feel repetitive, mentally and physically draining, and one training method may not work for every child. So, on the days where I feel like I am repeating myself constantly, I’m exhausted, and my kids just aren’t getting it, I have on repeat in my head, “this is the training, this is the training.”

Shana Phillips is mom to 5 1/2 kids, wife to William for 10 years, nurse, and baker of cookies! Children: Isabelle & Lillian (6yrs), Levi, John & Hudson (2 1/2yrs) and a new baby due in September.

www.montgomeryparents.com

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The Montgomery Academy is proud of its Class of 2018!

MA’s last five graduating classes were accepted to these colleges and universities: Alcorn State University Appalachian State University Arizona State University Auburn University Auburn University at Montgomery Baylor University Belhaven University Belmont University Berry College Birmingham-Southern College Boston College Boston University Bradley University Brandeis University Brevard College Carnegie Mellon University Case Western Reserve University Centre College Claflin University Clark Atlanta University Clemson University Colby College College of Charleston College of William & Mary Columbia University Columbus State University Connecticut College Dartmouth College Davidson College DePaul University DePauw University Duke University Eckerd College Emory and Henry College Emory University

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