Montgomery Parents July 2017

BREAST MILK GOOD FOR MOM, BEST FOR BABY! Breast Milk Babies…

Breastfeeding Moms…

• Have less ear infections, colds, and viruses

• Lose weight after delivery quicker

• Perform higher on cognitive development tests

• Have less complications post delivery

• Have lower rates of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome

• Have lower rates of postpartum depression

• Have a lower risk of childhood asthma and allergies

• Have a lower risk of developing weak bones later in life

• Are less likely to be obese or have some chronic health conditions

• Have a lower risk of developing breast or ovarian cancer

THE BEST START FOR A HEALTHY LIFE

adph.org/perinatal

RANKED CENTRAL ALABAMA’S #1 INDEPENDENT SCHOOL AND #4 IN ALABAMA, BY NICHE.COM.

Oh, The Places They Are Going!

THE SAINT JAMES SCHOOL CLASS OF 2017 EARNED A RECORD $9.1 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 seniors embody the Saint James mission and philosophy of educating the whole child. Four National Merit Finalists, Four National Merit Commended Students, Twenty Advanced Placement Scholars, a State Forensics Champion, a 10-Time Fine Arts Regional Gold Key Winner and 3-Time National Silver Medalist (just this year!), a Super Regional Class Champion Marching Band, an Individual State Tennis Champion, Football Region Champions, Area Volleyball Champions, Area Girls Basketball Champions, and so much more!

They’re off and away! With a firm foundation under their feet. And ready for any challenge they meet. With great promise for the future, we congratulate the Saint James Class of 2017!

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

334.273.3021

Leading the Way Since 1955 S T J w e b . o r g Ask us about our Financial Assistance Program.

Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

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

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Spark achievement.

All that preparation—not for this day, but for the rest of their lives. Each year, they’ve learned more, taken on more, and become more. No one is prouder than you, but we’re a close second.

We congratulate the 142nd class of Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School.These students have earned $10.5 million in scholarship offers from 27 colleges and universities across the U.S. Our graduates include: a Jimmy Hitchcock Award winner, 10 future college athletes, a seminarian, a U.S. Air Force Academy appointee, a United States Marine recruit, a Montgomery Fire Department recruit, and a National Merit qualifier. Their achievements have energized our Montgomery Catholic family.

With the 77 members of the Class of 2017, we’ve seen great things. We fully expect more. This is Catholic.

Montgomer y C atholic Preparator y S cho ol

Grades K4 - 12

montgomer ycatholic.org

From Left: Ivy Bach, third-generation Montgomery Catholic graduate, attended since Kindergarten, National Honor Society, four-year high school Honor Roll student, Mu Alpha Theta officer, scholarship to Troy University; Michaelyn Foster, Montgomery Catholic Knights of the Round Table Female Athlete of the Year, attended since 10th grade, three-year high school Honor Roll student, scholarship to Auburn University Montgomery, college softball player; Zachary Van Alst, Montgomery Catholic Knights of the Round Table Male Athlete of the Year, attended since 7th grade, National Honor Society officer, 6x State Wrestling Champion, scholarship to United States Air Force Academy, college wrestler; Audrey Kim, Montgomery Catholic Ideal Graduate, attended since 2nd grade, National Honor Society officer, Mu Alpha Theta officer, member of Youth Legislature, All-American Cheerleader, scholarship to Tulane University; James Sadie, Montgomery Catholic Student Leader of the Year, attended since 2nd grade, National Honor Society, SGA officer, member of Youth Legislature, anchor of the Knight News Network, scholarship to Auburn University. Photo by Total Image.

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That home you’ve been looking for? It’s here.

New Park is this year’s CENTRAL SITE for the

Parade of Homes.

Come see us and check out the The Greater Montgomery Home Builders Association’s

Ideal Home on

July 8& 9 and July 15 &16.

SHOWCASING SIX OF THE RIVER REGION’S BEST HOME BUILDERS: w Meadows Construction w Hugh Cole Builder, Inc. w Milton Strickland Builders, Inc. w Lowder New Homes w Mathews Development Co., LLC w New Age Builders, LLC

COME VISIT US at The 2017

Home to East Montgomery 334.215.9215 | newparkliving.com | 9430 Park Crossing

Between Ray Thorington Road and Taylor Road A JIM WILSON & ASSOCIATES DEVELOPMENT

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Bradford Health Services ROAD MAP TO ADOLESCENT RECOVERY

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Groups

There Is Hope Ahead.

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

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July2017

Columns

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Volume 22 Number 7

6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

Beyond the Birthday Party

After the First Year

Meaningful, yet simple, ways to mark the milestones in your child’s life.

Discover 5 unique ways to celebrate your child’s birthday.

sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Montgomery Education Matters

by Superintendent Margaret Allen

39 The College Years

by Lee Gonet

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12 Kids Health Watch

40 Autauga Education Matters

by Superintendent Spence Agee

44 Elmore Education Matters

by Superintendent Richard Dennis

54 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

The Combined Party

Theme ideas (including accompanying crafts and games) for a boy/girl birthday party.

Birthday Party Guide Our listing helps you find all the resources you need for their big day!

58 Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

63 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

81 Parenting Today’s Teens

On The Cover Kennedy Lemmond, age 6, loves all things involving gymnastics, dance, and cheer. She is the daughter of Chuck and Anna Lemmond of Tallassee. Kennedy has two brothers, Thomas (10) and Cooper (2). The Lemmonds celebrated Kennedy’s sixth birthday with a PJs and Pancakes Party!

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Mark Gregston

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 72 Calendar/Support Groups 84 Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Editor’sNote The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

Welcome to our 2017 Big Birthday Issue!

This month’s magazine is all about helping you celebrate the milestones in your child’s life.

I’ve never met a child who doesn’t love a birthday party...their own especially. And though there are many ways to celebrate a birthday--large or small, elaborate or simple--we parents love to mark another year in our child’s life. Our Birthday Issue serves as a resource you can hold onto all year long, to help you plan every bit of birthday fun for your family!

First up is 5 Ways to Go Beyond the Birthday Party, which shares some unique ideas for celebrating like “having a yes day” or “planning a trip” just to name a couple. When it comes to birthdays, there are no rules. Maybe this is the year you want to try something different and unexpected to make your child feel special.

If you have a son and daughter with birthdays close together, how about hosting a combined party? Pam Molnar’s How to Host a Party for Boys and Girls shares not only theme ideas, but even gives detailed instructions for activities, crafts and games to accompany each theme.

Next up, don’t miss our 2017 Birthday Party Planning Guide. Our extensive listing of local businesses has everything you need to plan your next party, from cakes and decorations to equipment rentals and places to party. Pay special attention to our advertisers highlighted throughout the listing and support them with your business whenever possible. We know these businesses are eager to provide you with their great services.

Even after the birthday party is over, parents still look for ways to mark and celebrate a child’s growth from year to year. Maybe you’ve done simple things like a height chart on the wall of your home or a scrapbook of photos. In Christa Hines’ article, After the First Year: Marking Childhood Milestones, she offers 11 creative and sentimental ideas along these lines to capture moments and make memories. Many of the ideas actually turn into keepsakes your child can treasure forever.

As always, thank you for picking up a copy of Montgomery Parents! Please grab an extra copy and share it with a new neighbor to help them get acquainted with all the River Region has to offer for families.

Have a wonderful July!

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Margaret Allen Richard Dennis Lee Gonet Jessica Graham Mark Gregston Christa Hines Carolyn Jabs Pam Molnar John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Allen White, M.D.

Cover Photography Lori Mercer

Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com Associate Publisher Gena Hill Digital Manager Scott Davis Advertising Opportunities Jason Watson (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 ads@montgomeryparents.com Ad Design Tim Welch

DeAnne

Distribution Manager Chris Mitchell Member

deanne@montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

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

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

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

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LivingWithChildren

by John Rosemond

Nip “High Self-Esteem Seizures” in the Bud Q:

My 30-month-old has started throwing tantrums when I do not give her or do for her what she wants. During her fits, she cries, screams, tries to hit and even bite me, and then, if I prevent her from hitting me, will hit herself. My mother says this needs to be nipped in the bud. She recommends spanking.

I say my daughter really doesn’t know what she’s doing and is too young to be disciplined for this. I’m also concerned about her self-hitting.

What do you say?

A: I say your mother is right. But then again, I disagree with her concerning her recommendation that you spank your daughter when she has a tantrum. By the way, I prefer to call them “high self-esteem seizures” because they are the rage of the naturally narcissistic child at having someone—a parent, usually—refuse to immediately satisfy his or her unquenchable lust for entitlement.

First, your daughter’s tantrums are kneejerk reactions; nonetheless, she is a highly intelligent member of a self-aware species.

Don’t confuse “she cannot explain what she is doing” with “she does not know what she is doing.” Believe me, she knows what she is doing. She is trying to get her way and she believes that becoming an emotional volcano will accomplish that objective. You’ve probably given in a time or two, haven’t you? Yes, you have!

Fact: If a parent gives in to one tantrum out of twenty, twenty more are instantly loaded into the clip.

Second, you would do well to nip these seizures in the bud, or bloom, whatever the case may now be. As I said, however, I do not recommend spanking. I have no problem with spankings per se (research done by objective people does not find psychological harm—and even finds benefit—when spankings are infrequent and hand-administered by loving parents), but when the issue is a toddler’s tantrums they are not likely to accomplish anything.

Third, your daughter’s self-hitting does not merit concern. As you make clear, she does not hit herself randomly but only when you prevent her from hitting you. Under

the circumstances, her self-abuse is what is known as a “displacement.” Also, she probably saw that hitting herself provoked a reaction from you, so she persists.

Fourth, the most effective means of nipping these seizures in the bud or bloom is to assign them to a designated tantrum place. When our daughter Amy was this age and her sense of entitlement got the best of her, my wife and/or I simply directed her or dragged her kicking and screaming to her very special tantrum room—the downstairs half-bath. We put her in, told her that this was the only room in the home where tantrums were allowed, encouraged her to scream to her little heart’s content, closed the door, and walked away. For what usually was less than a minute, Amy would scream, shriek, kick and pound the door, and otherwise go completely berserk. Then she would become silent and, we assumed, sulk. Then she would emerge, go straight to her room and begin entertaining herself as if nothing had happened.

In short, tantrums are no big deal unless allowed to become a big deal. With that in mind, nip away!

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

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2017 AISA 2A State Champions!

Get in the Game They know the extra effort they make today will help them do even bigger things in life tomorrow.

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Athletics play a big part on campus at Macon East with over 80% of upper school students participating in one or more inter-scholastic team sports. Team sports at MEA include: baseball, basketball, cheerleading, football, golf, soccer, softball, and volleyball. Beginning in 3rd grade, elementary boys may participate in interscholastic football, and all elementary girls K3 - 6 may participate in cheerleading. Macon East has won numerous regional and state championships, and our coaches have received local and state recognition for excellence in coaching. The Knights won state championships in boys basketball and baseball and state runner-up titles in volleyball and softball.

Seven members of this year’s senior class have signed athletic scholarships to participate at the collegiate level.

We pride ourselves with an athletic program with a long-standing tradition of championship-level teams.

HIGH SCHOOL SPORTS: A WINNING PART OF A COMPLETE EDUCATION. Summer Educational and Sports Camps will be offered this summer. Contact the school for more information.

Macon East acadEMy Knights 15396 Vaughn Road Cecil, Alabama 36013 Telephone: 334.277.6566 Web: maconeast.net l

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Leadership scholarship9opportunities are available. www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

Animal Enrichment Day at the Montgomery Zoo

July 22 * Zoo is open 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. * Enrichment activities 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Enrichment is an effort to tap into and stimulate the basic five senses: touch, sight, smell, taste and hearing. The result is to stimulate behaviors resembling those for that species in the wild. Theme is Christmas in July. Everyone is encouraged to wear Christmas colors and perhaps even wear Santa hats, jingle bells, and reindeer antlers. Call (334) 2404900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com.

A S @ The Capri Theatre July 5-28 Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.

All seats $2; popcorn and soda $.50 each.

July 5-7: Ice Age: Collision Course (PG) July 12-14: The Secret Life Of Pets (PG) July 19-21: Penguins Of Madagascar (PG) July 26-28: The Peanuts Movie (PG) For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org/ or call (334) 262-4858.

Eastdale Mall Family Fun Nights

Thursdays in June and July Family Fun Night is back at Eastdale Mall every Thursday in June & July (excluding July 6) from 5-7 pm. Family Fun Nights provide local families an evening filled with hands-on activities, story time, and performances by community attractions, and discounts by participating merchants.

The best part? It’s all FREE! Make sure to check in at the Customer Service Center to receive your wrist band to participate in all of the activities. For more info, call (334) 277-7380 or find us on Facebook.

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AMC 16 Theatre Montgomery

Mondays & Wednesdays at 10 a.m.

Tickets are $4 and include popcorn, a drink and fruit snacks!

July 3 & 5: Pup Star July 10 & 12: Sing July 17 & 19: Home July 24 & 26: Despicable Me July 31 & August 2: The Peanuts Movie For more info, call (334) 244-1355 or visit www.amctheatres.com/summer-movies-camp.

Tim Hawkins July 15 * 7:30 p.m.

Since giving up his job as a grocery truck driver in 2002, Tim Hawkins has been establishing himself as one of the most in-demand comedians in the country. The perils of marriage, homeschooling, and growing up in the Midwest make for really good punchlines. Tickets begin at $16.

Creekwalk Concerts

July 11 and 25 at 7 p.m.

The City of Prattville presents its popular Creekwalk Concert Series on the second and fourth Tuesdays of July. These concerts will feature local and regional bands performing by the beautiful Autauga Creek behind City Hall and the Police Station. Concerts are free and open to the public. Some food vendors will be available, but concert goers can visit some of the local restaurants or bring picnic baskets. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs and enjoy a FREE concert beside the creek with the magnificent Prattville sunsets. For more info, call (334) 5950854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

New Vision Theatres

(formerly Prattville Promenade 12)

Kids’ Summer Series

Legendary Coaches Pat Dye & Gene Stallings August 15 * 7 p.m.

Tickets range from $22 to $47. All $47 tickets include a meet-and-greet starting at 6 p.m. (arrive by 5:45).

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MPAC Presents

For tickets, visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

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July 6-August 3 Thursdays at 10 a.m. $4 admission includes small popcorn and small drink.

July 6: Alvin and the Chipmunks July 13: Kung Fu Panda 3 July 20: The Peanuts Movie July 27: The Croods August 3: Trolls For more info, call (334) 285-1818 or visit www.newvisiontheatres.com. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Alabama in the Movies Summer Film Festival

On Thursday nights in July, the Alabama Dept. of Archives and History (ADAH) will again host Alabama in the Movies, a film festival featuring movies filmed or set in Alabama. Admission is FREE! Films will be screened in the Archives’ air-conditioned Joseph M. Farley Alabama Power Auditorium beginning at 6 p.m.

Movies include: July 6: Sweet Home Alabama starring Reese Witherspoon (PG-13) July 13: Norma Rae starring Sally Field (PG) July 20: Alabama Moon starring Jimmy Bennett & John Goodman (PG) July 27: My Cousin Vinny starring Joe Pesci & Marisa Tomei (R) Concessions provided by That’s My Dog, Popcorn Pizzazz, and JoZetti’s Cupcakes will be available for purchase beginning at 5:30. Beverages will be available for purchase, with all proceeds benefitting the Friends of the Alabama Archives. To learn more, visit www.archives. alabama.gov or call (334) 242-4364.

Summer Food Truck Takeover @ Hampstead

Friday, July 7, and Friday, August 4, from 4:30-8:30 p.m.

A variety of rotating Montgomery food trucks will assemble in the Hampstead Town Center to dish out street food and fun.

Local food trucks may include: NYC Gyro, Southern Smokeshack, On A Roll, El Campesino’s Taqueria, Fire Meats Wood, Frios Pops and more. There is plenty of outdoor park seating and live music to keep the party going.

In addition, The Tipping Point, City Grill, and Hampstead’s latest addition, TASTE, will be open and serving their regular menu items as well as craft beer, wine and cocktails for the enjoyment of guests.

This is a free event and open to public.

Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Peter Pan

Through July 30: 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m.

Sunday matinees. For audiences ages 4 and up.

For info, visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530.

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Stars on the Riverfront July 30-31 * 7:30 p.m. Gates open at 6 p.m. for picnicking. Two spectacular FREE performances at the Riverwalk Amphitheater are the culmination of ADT’s two-week Summer Dance Seminar and will feature more than 50 dancers. For more info, call (334) 241-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com/stars-onthe-riverfront.html.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

The Dangers of Caffeine The dangers of energy drinks are getting a lot attention after the death of a healthy South Carolina teen in May of this year from an apparent overdose of caffeine. He drank a McDonald’s latte, a large size Mountain Dew and then “chugged” a 16 ounce energy drink over a two hour period before collapsing. His father, Sean Cripe, explained, “He was a great kid. He didn’t get mixed up in the wrong things. You worry about their safety, their health, especially once they start driving. But it wasn’t a crash that took his life. Instead it was an energy drink.”

Most energy drinks are sweet and easy to drink, making them appeal to teens and even younger preteens. The sheer volume of energy stimulating products makes for easy access by minors. We are seeing more incidents of young children with dangerous side effects from drinking too many caffeinated drinks.

What is Caffeine?

Caffeine is a bitter drug produced naturally in seeds and leaves of some plants or artificially made. It can be added to foods or drinks. Sugar covers the bitter taste. Caffeine

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

stimulates the nervous system and causes increased alertness leading to an energy boost and elevated mood for up to 6 hours. It has been used to stimulate breathing in premature infants. It is in tea, coffee, chocolate, some soft drinks and some pain relievers as well as energy drinks.

Side Effects Too much caffeine can cause headaches (including migraine), anxiety, heart arrhythmias, jitteriness, irritability, panic and anxiety, increased blood pressure, poor sleep, and dizziness. The amount that causes these effects varies from person to person but is increased in smaller persons and children. It is a diuretic which increases urine volume and can irritate the bladder causing the urgency to urinate more frequently. Caffeine alone won’t cause dehydration but in combination with hot weather, long workouts and insufficient fluid intake, it can be dangerous. It can cause a loss of calcium leading to bone loss over time. Those who consume a lot of caffeine get tolerant to the side effects and may need more caffeine to get the same effects.

Moderation Caffeine is thought to be safe when used “moderately”. The FDA recommends no more than 400 mg of caffeine in 24 hours for adults

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(4-5 cups). The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends none for children and not over 100 mg per day for teens.

Withdrawal If you want to cut back, then do so slowly. Caffeine addiction is not dangerous but stopping “cold turkey” can bring on lethargy, depression, headaches, and irritability or just “brain fog”. When caffeine withdrawal interferes with daily life, it is classified as a mental disorder with a diagnostic code. Start by cutting out one drink a day for one week and then delete another drink per day for the next week until you are consuming only one caffeinated drink per day and then decrease to half of that drink for a week until you are consuming less than 100 mg per day. Be sure to replace those drinks with other fluids to avoid dehydration.

You can then safely stop all caffeine. Be sure to get plenty of sleep and exercise to increase your energy. This can take two weeks to two months to avoid side effects.

Dr. Allen White earned his medical degree in 1969 from Kentucky Medical School, Lexington, and is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. He began his private practice of pediatric medicine with an office in the Goode Medical Building of Jackson Hospital before moving to the Carmichael Road location in 1986. He and his wife, Diana, have 3 sons. For pleasure, Dr. White enjoys reading, gardening and spending time with his grandchildren.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Let’s get you back in the game, together.

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Making the Most of Summer Without a doubt, summer is likely every child’s favorite time of the year. No school, no homework, just opportunities to have fun and enjoy the season. In their view, summer is a win-win time of the year. But, from an educational standpoint (where there is an expectation that learning happens daily) summer can be a time when many economically disadvantaged students lose.

The National Summer Learning Association has done research on a phenomenon that shows a serious learning gap that arises between children from low-income families and those from higher-income households during the summer break. Their data suggests that over the summer, lowincome children lose two or three months

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

of progress in reading, while their higher-income classmates actually make slight gains.

According to their research, by the fifth grade, low-income students can be three years behind their higher-income peers.

There is little doubt that finding ways to help children expand their learning opportunities in the summer is critical. There are a number of things that can be done over the summer to help minimize losses and even increase a student’s academic performance potential: Reading to young children, and having older children read to an adult aloud is one easy way to keep vocabulary growth happening. Having them read books and summarize the chapters in story telling format is also a simple routine with impact. The Montgomery City County Library has tons of books (literally) if you can make it to one of their locations. The library also has a variety of online courses at no cost. (Visit http:// www.mccpl.lib.al.us/ for information.)

Enroll in the Brain Forest Academy. This no-cost program by the Montgomery Education Foundation, provides instruction in read-

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ing and math. You can apply for the program and find out more at https://www.montgomeryed.org/ or by calling 334-647-1700.

Make everyday experiences learning opportunities. You can do math at the grocery store – convert pounds to ounces, figure money totals and tax, and add up the calories of the items in your basket. As you drive, have your child figure how long it will take to go a certain distance at a constant speed. Read billboards. Spell the names of things you see. Visit the zoo and learn about animals. Read and do math as you follow a recipe for dinner. If you think about it, you can turn nearly every experience into a learning opportunity.

There are opportunities everywhere you look to help your child fight summer learning loss. It may take a little planning on your part, but the results are absolutely worth the effort.

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

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Montgomery County Schools

Nixon Fifth-Graders Take Tops in Writing Contest

From left, E.D. Nixon Elementary fifthgraders Kira Jones, Mackenzie Burroughs and Shavonte Johnson-Towns won first, second and third place respectively in the Montgomery Press and Authors Club Writing Contest.

Students were asked to write a one-page story or poem on a topic of their choice.

Jones wrote a short story titled “Giants,” Burroughs wrote a poem titled “My Story” and Johnson-Towns wrote a poem titled “Love Is A Feeling.”

ACA Wins at UCA Cheer Camp

Covenant Holds Homeschool Day

Attention, homeschoolers or those interested in learning more about it! Covenant Academy invites you to Homeschool Day on August 5 at Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road, from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Activities for the whole family, including ”How to Homeschool” seminar, displays of homeschool resources and supplies, displays of products and services offered by local family-owned small businesses, panel discussion with Q & A on homeschooling in unusual circumstances by those who have been there, fellowship over brown bag lunch with tea and lemonade provided, children’s activities, and fun for the whole family.

For details or to register, call (334) 356-5205 and leave a message, e-mail farauthor@aol.com or visit www.covenantacademyalabama.com.

Alabama Christian Academy recently attended UCA Cheer Camp at Auburn University. The cheerleaders had the opportunity to compete in All-American tryouts and final day championships. Twelve ACA cheerleaders were selected as All-American cheerleaders.

All-Americans are Emily Gray, Kaitlin Tatum, Mattie Davis, Hannah Guy, Morgan Vogel, Ragen Pike, Valerie Jeffers, Carlie Barlow, Macy Kate Owen, Anslee Henry, Jenna Locklier and Emma Reeves. ACA 9th-grader Jenna Locklier was also named “Jump Off Champion” andmascot Rex Smith was selected as All-American Mascot.

During final camp championships, all three ACA squads were awarded trophies. The Varsity squad, coached by Stephanie Solar, won 1st place extreme routine, 1st place cheer, 1st place overall game day experience, and 3rd place sideline. The Junior Varsity squad, coached by Kathryn Bandy, won 1st place extreme routine, 1st place cheer, 1st place overall game day experience, and 2nd place sideline. The Middle School squad, coached by Ashley Paige Smith, won 1st place sideline and 2nd place cheer. ACA mascot “ACE” was named mascot camp champion and received a 1st place trophy!

Montgomery Academy’s Graduating Class of 2017

The Montgomery Academy’s Class of 2017 claims numerous accomplishments in the classroom, in the arts, in the sports arena, and in the community. Comprised of 59 students, the Senior Class celebrates the recognition of 25 students in the National Merit Scholarship Program and the Advanced Placement Scholars Program. Since joining the Upper School in the fall of 2013, members of this class have played key roles in interscholastic athletics, capturing 13 State Championships, while also contributing to local, state and national recognition in the visual and performing arts including our Upper School Chorus’s first-place honors in national choral competitions for three consecutive years, our Speech & Debate team’s recognition as being in the top 1% in the nation, and our AP Studio Art program’s recognition by the College Board.

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Second Chance Graduates First GED Class

ACA Camp Eagle Still Has Available Weeks

Alabama Christian Academy’s Camp Eagle is the place to be for a safe, God-honoring, crazy good time. For 15 years, Coach Daysha and Coach Nate have been putting on the best Christian summer day camps and this year is no exception. Remaining available weeks are July 10-14 and July 17-21. Visit www.ACACampEagle.org to register or for more information.

On May 17, the Second Chance Foundation held a commencement ceremony for its first GED class. The students included, from top left, Jacobé Toney, Joshua Pettiway, Tyrese Garrott, D’Horace Flowers and, bottom left, Breuona Boyd and Kayla Carmichael.

The Second Chance Foundation is a non-profit organization that has helped at-risk youth in Montgomery and surrounding counties since 1998.

The GED program is a recent addition to Second Chance and strives to help youth ages 16-24 achieve their dreams of obtaining their GED and gainful employment. For more information about the Second Chance Foundation GED Program or how to enroll, please call (334) 263-9733. Classes begin August 14.

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Evangel Ends the Year with a Fairy Tale Twist

Ms. Stoddard’s second-grade class and Mrs. Hope’s first-grade class at Evangel Christian Academy ended the year with a play. The play was based on the popular children’s story “Bubba the Cowboy Prince, A Fractured Texas Tale” by Helen Ketteman. The story was a modern-day twist on the traditional Cinderella story. The main character, Bubba, works hard for his evil stepdad and gets the chance to go to a ball. At the ball he meets Miss Lurleen and leaves behind a dirty boot when the clock strikes midnight. At the end, Miss Lurleen finds her cowboy prince when the boot fits Bubba and the two live happily ever after. The ECA audience members kicked up their heels as they watched the play and enjoyed the music.

Holy Cross Students Already Learning Algebra

Holy Cross Episcopal School fifth-grade teacher Connie MacDonald has begun preparing her students by teaching them algebra just as if they were in middle school.

“The fifth-graders finished their math book early this year,” she said. “After a review of the entire book and cumulative tests, we began to study algebra! The students are very excited about it. We have learned Order of Operations, expressions, and integers.

“We begin the day with mental math.

I call out a long problem and students must calculate them in their heads. Then they write their answer on a wipe-off board and hold it up for me to see. After several of these, we begin to work algebra equations and order of operations problems. They will be ahead of the game when they start 6th grade and well prepared for 7th when the time comes.

The best part is that they are begging to do algebra when they come in class! That is so much fun for a teacher to hear.”

Will Alexander is shown.

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Pike Road Starts Intramural League

In February and March, Pike Road School Coach and Athletic Director Ken Klinger offered an intramural league for C5-C6 boys and girls interested in basketball, softball and baseball. While teaching the basics of the games, the Future Patriot League also taught learners about hard work, enthusiasm, self control, cooperation, and other elements of good sportsmanship and being part of a team. Coaches Alec Pitts, Josh Clark and Bruce Shelton, as well as current PRS baseball and basketball teams, took part in the coaching and mentoring efforts of the League.

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Eastwood Baseball Achieves AISA Honors

The Eastwood Christian School Warriors baseball team recently took second place in the AISA 1A finals. In addition, Andrew Hines received 2nd Team All State, Ben Johnson received Honorable Mention All State, and Gary Johnson was name AISA 1A All State Coach.

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

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Montgomery Chamber Launches TechMGM

Fifteen Information Technology (IT) professionals are one big step closer to qualifying for a job with Department of Defense (DoD) contractors. This new educational opportunity is the result of a partnership intended to help boost the IT workforce pipeline in Montgomery where numerous DoD contractors provide highly technical services to Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base’s defense programs.

The Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce, Alabama Community College System (ACCS) and local IT industry community began working together several months ago to seek out ways to provide opportunities for IT professionals to further develop their skills and qualifications in order to allow local contractors to source their talent locally. On April 3, the first classes for CompTIA Security+ began and were full to capacity, with names on a wait list.

“We answered the call from our community, bringing industry recognized certification courses to the Montgomery area to assist with unfilled IT positions”, said Barry May, Deputy Director Workforce and Economic Development, Alabama Community College System.

The first course will produce students prepared to receive their Security+ certification, one of the most frequently sought after certifications for IT professionals seeking employment supporting the local military organizations.

“The partnership with the Alabama Community College System will allow for a diverse course offering, flexible for students and working professionals,” said Charisse Stokes, one of the Chamber’s Chief Strategists for Tech Initiatives. Additional classes will be offered this summer at varying times and locations to best suit the diverse work and school schedules of the candidates.

“The Chamber is leading a comprehensive tech economic development strategy, fueled by the new MGMix Internet Exchange, the City and County, the State of Alabama, Air Force and DoD partners, the RSA Data Center, universities, and the local tech community,” said Stokes. “Montgomery is one of the leading tech landscapes in the country in terms of talent, infrastructure and capacity.

By connecting our tech talent to the certification and training opportunities they need to advance, we meet the needs of our local businesses, create jobs, and support the missions of our Air Force and DoD partners.”

For more information on TechMGM and the training now offered, visit www.techmgm.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

Evangel Christian Academy Evangel Christian Academy exists to partner with Christian parents to provide their child with a Christ-centered education.

Our desire is to help each child achieve their God-given potential through providing activities designed to foster spiritual, academic and social growth.

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

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

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

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

For a FREE Educational Success Consultation please contact the school office

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

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

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Trinity Girls’ Golf Team Makes History

MA Engineering Class Creates Roller Coasters

Students in Jason St. Amand’s advanced engineering class at The Montgomery Academy finished a month-long design thinking roller coaster project. The class hosted the Lower School students they interviewed earlier this year to help create ideas and themes for these projects. From their early drawings, the Upper School students managed to create some amazing coasters and learned about everything from critical velocity, g-forces, kinetic and potential energy, friction, gravity and more!

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

The Trinity Presbyterian Girls’ Golf Team made history by becoming the first girls’ golf team in Montgomery to win a state championship! Sophie Burks, who will be attending Middle Tennessee State University on a golf scholarship in the fall, won low medalist shooting under par for the State Tournament, while Trinity ninth-grader Emma Pittman placed fifth overall.

The Lady Wildcats had a one-shot lead after the first day of play at the RTJ National in Opelika. They finished with a 17-stroke win over UMS Wright, 28 strokes over two-time defending State Champion White Plains, and 43 strokes over 4th-placed Arab. Burks shot 71 both days, while Pittman finished with a 78.

Mary Grace Etheredge and Tatum Willis had clutch shots during the playoffs and helped seal the State Championship for the team.

Elizabeth Ann Stewart, playing in her first year of competition, cheered her teammates on for the win.

Head Golf Coach Tim Bethea, Mary Grace Etheredge, Tatum Willis, Sophie Burks, Emma Pittman and Elizabeth Ann Stewart are shown.

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Pike Road Names Jimmy Hitchcock Award Nominees

Pike Road Schools’ first Hitchcock Award nominees have exhibited excellence in both athletics and in their personal lives. The Jimmy Hitchcock Award recognizes Outstanding Christian Leadership in Athletics, encouraging and inspiring students to emulate the man whose memory is perpetuated by this award.

Luke Truslow is a soccer player and a member of the cross country team at PRS, but he is also president of the IT club, a member of the Trailblazers, and volunteers in Mrs. Rudolph’s C6 class. Trailblazers are ambassadors selected to represent the school on occasions such as parent tours and when special guests visit the school. Truslow is a member of Holy Spirit Catholic Church, where he is part of the Life-Teen youth group and volunteers each year at Vacation Bible School. He is currently a Star rank Boy Scout working toward becoming an Eagle Scout, which will require planning and leading a local community service project on his own.

Cate Lovrich plays volleyball and basketball for PRS, and she is a team captain for both sports. She is also involved with the PRS Student Government and was recently elected mayor.

In addition, Lovrich is the treasurer of the PRS Future Farmers of America, and is a member of the Pike Road Fellowship Club. Lovrich shares her love for volleyball by volunteering in the C3-C6 PRS volleyball camp, and she was also a volunteer at the Patriot Fund Crawfish Boil. Lovrich is a member of the Church of the Highlands, where she is involved with the Motion student group.

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Evangel Names Mr. and Miss ECA

Evangel Christian Academy named the school’s 2017 Mr. and Miss ECA during its High School Awards Day ceremony.

Oaklee Williams and Makenzie Whatley were chosen for this distinguished honor.

The two seniors were chosen by the faculty and student body for their Christian testimonies as well as their academic and leadership skills.

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Macon East Baseball Team Takes State

Catholic Announces 2017 Charlie Harbin Award Winner

Ann Karst was honored by Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School on May 1, as the 2017 Charlie Harbin Distinguished Service Award winner for her service to the school. The Charlie Harbin Distinguished Service Award was established by the Harbin family and is awarded by the school to recognize those selfless individuals who have significantly served Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School and exemplified its values in their lives.

Montgomery Catholic’s President, Anne Ceasar, presented Karst with an engraved clock to begin the 2017 Montgomery Catholic High School Academic Awards Night, in appreciation for the gift of her time.

The 21st recipient of the Harbin Award, Karst has served Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School in a variety of ways throughout the years. The mother of three alumni, her contributions include volunteer driver, team mom for all sports her daughters participated in, Advisory Board member, finance council member, PICE committee member and golf tournament volunteer, and faithful PTC volunteer at all campuses. As an active member of our community, she has not only helped by giving her time and energy on campus, but also as the co-founder of the MCPS prayer warriors, keeping faith in the forefront as a vital part of support for the school and larger community. She has been an active participant in the school for more than 17 years.

Karst is married to Dr. Michael Karst, and they are the parents of Elizabeth ’12 (not pictured), Megan ’13 and Ashley ’15.

Send School News to: editor@ montgomeryparents.com Montgomery Parents I July 2017

The Macon East Academy varsity baseball team swept Clarke Prep at the AISA AA state tournament at Patterson Field to bring home the championship trophy. The Knights went 33-13 for the season and won their area with a record of 6-0. With a bye through the first round of playoffs, the Knights hosted Escambia in round two and Autauga in round 3.

Losing one game in each series, Macon East picked up the tie breaker win to advance to the championship series with Clarke Prep.

With a crowd of Macon East fans cheering them on, Coach Pickett and his team took game one 8-4 and shut out the Gators 6-0 in game two with Kohner Massey on the mound. This was the first state championship win for the Macon East baseball program since 2004, and a sweet victory following a loss in 2015 to Edgewood at the state tournament. Seniors Connor Davis and Will Dowe combined for nine RBIs to lead Macon East at the plate. As relief pitcher, Mason Wray came in to game one earning him the win.

A group of seniors made up the Knights all-tournament team: Will Dowe, Kohner Massey, Mason Wray and tournament MVP Connor Davis. Davis was 4-for-6 with four RBIs, three runs, and two doubles in the sweep. Coach Bob Pickett knew that this could be the Knights’ season to take it all, and they never let up on the goal of getting to State one game at a time. Pickett credits Coach Jim Brantley rejoining the program at pitching coach as a major part of the team’s successful season.

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Trinity’s Coach Ragsdale Honored with Reception

Trinity Presbyterian School recently honored Coach Randy Ragsdale and his 28 years of coaching during a reception in Willett Hall. Many, many alumni and friends waited in line to speak with the iconic football coach—several driving hours to pay tribute to their favorite head football coach. Ragsdale served as Trinity’s head football coach since 1989. Over the last 28 seasons, “Coach Rags,” as he is known to so many, amassed the most impressive record attained by any coach at a single institution in the history of high school football in Montgomery. With 243 wins, five area championships, nine regional championships, 25 playoff appearances, a region record of 116-23, and the 2003 4-A state championship, Ragsdale has etched his name into the annals of high school football history in Alabama. More importantly, however, Ragsdale has taught student athletes the importance of following Christ in the game of life. Ragsdale is stepping away from coaching and will focus his time and energy on serving as the Dean of Middle School Students at Trinity. His coaching legacy will be remembered and revered for years to come, and leave a permanent stamp on the Trinity football program.

Shown, Kyle McBrayer holding Coach Ragsdale’s grandson Charlie McBrayer, Coach Randy Ragsdale, Rosemary Ragsdale, Caroline Ragsdale, Craegh Ragsdale holding Ragsdale’s other grandson Gray McBrayer.

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Holy Cross Bestows Coveted Melanie Kelley Award

ECA Inducts Students into National Honor Societies

Evangel Christian Academy recently conducted its annual induction ceremony for the National Honor Society and Junior Honor Society. The program began with a candlelighting ritual in which scholarship, leadership, service and character, the foundational principles of the organization, were represented. After the ceremony, the candidates for induction were then led in the NHS pledge and presented with certificates celebrating their acceptance into the organization.

New members of the National Junior Honor Society are: Micah Brown, Katie Cartee, Arange Clemons, Jon Michael Clemons, Monica Jennings, Emily Stehl, Chelsea Trimble, Christian Watson and Trevor Whatley. New members of the National Honor Societym shown below, are: Corryne Blanks, Anthony Gill, Gavin Grady, Mathew Johnson, Derek Kitchens, Mary Mac Loughridge, Brandon Martin, James Paterson, Desean Powell, Gabe Sexton, Gracie Thompson, Joseph Washington and JoEllen Whitfield.

Every year, the graduating class of Holy Cross Episcopal School waits for the moment 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 Kameron Keith Tuck, son of Mr. Keith and Dr. Pamela Tuck. Along with his name being added to the plaque that hangs in Kelley Hall, Tuck received a certificate, a Bible engraved with his name and a small gift from the school.

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Mystery Skype @ Montgomery Academy

Montgomery Academy students in Ms. Riley’s seventh-grade history class recently participated in a “Mystery Skype.” Using a series of yes/ no questions while consulting maps and research sites, classes from different schools competed to determine each other’s locations. While the partner school determined first that Riley’s class was in Alabama, Riley’s class won the competition by being first to identify the exact location of the partner school (Wakarusa, Indiana). Mystery Skypes help develop critical thinking, reinforce academic skills, build team spirit in the classroom and create excitement, while also introducing students to youngsters in other areas--and it was a lot of fun!

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Pike Road Proposes Exercise Stations

The recent Pike Road Town Council meeting was alive with excitement and fresh ideas. Community 5 learners (5th-grade students) from Pike Road Schools, along with Lead Learner and Athletic Director Ken Klinger, proposed adding simple exercise stations to sections of the Natural Trail. The trail is already used for training by some PRS athletics teams, and students are interested in utilizing the space to its maximum potential with stations that work out each main muscle group and also teach users about the Town of Pike Road’s history.

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Holy Cross Wins Statewide Award from Ronald McDonald House Charities

Holy Cross Episcopal School recently was awarded the coveted statewide Ronald McDonald House Pop Tab Pandemonium trophy for the fourth time for the most pop tops collected per student.

Representatives Brianne Denley and Emily Wright from Ronald McDonald House in Birmingham came to Holy Cross to surprise students with an exciting trophy presentation and awards ceremony. Holy Cross collected more than 2.5 pounds of pop tops. per child. These pop tops are recycled and the money is used by Ronald McDonald House Charities to give families with a child in the hospital a place to stay, offering meals and accommodations so that they can stay close and not have to travel back and forth long distances to visit them.

Holy Cross resource teacher Marcia Bazzell has been spearheading this outreach project for more than 16 years for the school. Third grade and fifth grade classes brought in the most pop tops, and were given a party to celebrate their accomplishment.

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Academy’s All-Star Athletes

The following Montgomery Academy students have been named Alabama High School Athletic Association All-Star Athletes: Austyn Barnes (Girls’ Soccer), Caroline Kirkham (Volleyball), Will Franklin (Cross Country) and Andrew Harris (Boys’ Soccer).

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Catholic Places at Statewide Math Tournament

The Alabama Statewide Math Tournament is an annual math competition organized by the University of North Alabama and sponsored by the Alabama Council of Teachers of Mathematics and the Alabama Association of College Teachers of Mathematics. Round I was February 25 and took place at districts throughout the state and Round II was on April 8. The invitational round is held in Florence, at the University of North Alabama. In the district round held at AUM in March, 22 Montgomery Catholic students competed on written tests at the Geometry, Algebra II, and all-inclusive comprehensive levels.

In Geometry, MCPS finished second in our district and seventh in the state; individually, Charlie O’Donnell finished first in our district and 22nd in the state, while Scott Nation finished third in the district and 35th in the state. In Algebra II, MCPS finished third in our district and 12th in the state; individually, Erica Blackburn finished fourth in our district. At the comprehensive level, MCPS finished second in our district and seventh in the state; individually, Henry Petters finished third in our district and 13th in the state.

In the invitational round at UNA, a team of six MCPS students took turns in fastpaced ciphering rounds where one student from each school goes to the front of the room and is given two minutes to answer a challenging math question with everybody watching. MCPS finished seventh in the state in the ciphering round. Shown is the 2017 team of Charlie O’Donnell, Scott Nation, Erica and Lita Blackburn, Zachary Van Alst and Chris DeJesus.

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Macon East Presents Spring Musical

The Macon East Academy Drama Club presented Peter Pan Jr. as its spring musical. This is the first year Mrs. Duffey and the Drama Club have produced a musical performance. After weeks of rehearsal, Peter Pan Jr. was performed first for the lower school students at a matinee and again on May 12 for the annual evening performance. Hannah Grace Johnson assisted Duffey as student director.

In Peter Pan Jr. Wendy, Michael and John Darling meet and befriend Peter Pan when the mysterious boy and a fairy named Tinkerbell enter their nursery in search of Peter’s lost shadow. Peter whisks his new friends away to Neverland, an island with “hardly any space between one adventure and the other.” There, Peter introduces the Darling children to his fellow Lost Boys, children who – like Peter – never grow up. The crew launches into a great adventure where they encounter Brave Girls, led by the incredible Tiger Lily, and Pirates led by the dreaded Captain Hook. Challenges ensue when the Darling children are ensnared in Captain Hook’s sinister plan to seek revenge on Peter. It was a fun and lighthearted show and a great way to end the 2016-17 drama season. Peter Pan Jr. is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI).

Cast included: Katherine Kirk (Peter Pan), Valorie Roberts (Wendy), Max Taylor (John), Casie Starling (Liza/Tiger Lily), Jonathan Mathis (Michael), Ann Morgan Stewart (Nana/Small Brave Girl), Ty Grant (Mr. Darling/Captain Hook), Rachel Sargent (Mrs. Darling/Twin #1), Madison Folkes (Nibs/Curley), Lauren Taylor (Slightly/Tootles), Hannah Johnson (Twin #2), Justin Reynolds (Smee), Lane Johnson (Noodler/Jukes/Starkey/Cecco), Makayla Morris (Brave Girl #1), Ashley Atkins (Brave Girl #2), Sam Pittenger (Crocodile), Kaylee Pullin and Slate Garmany (Pirates) and Jayce Cook-McCollum (Tinkerbell).

Montgomery Catholic’s Petters Qualifies for National Merit Program

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School junior Henry Petters has qualified for the National Merit Scholarship Program, which seeks to identify and honor academically talented young people across the nation. Of the 1.5 million entrants, some 50,000 with the highest PSAT/NMSQT Selection Index scores qualify for recognition in the National Merit Scholarship Program.

High-scoring participants from every state are invited to name two colleges and universities to which they would like to be referred by the National Merit Scholarship Committee. In September, these high scorers are notified through their schools that they have qualified as either a Commended Student or Semifinalist.

Henry is the son of Vicki and Brian Petters of Montgomery.

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ACA Celebrates Class of 2017

Alabama Christian Academy is proud to present the graduating class of 2017! The 2017 class was offered more than $3.5 million in scholarships from more than 35 colleges and universities. We are excited to welcome these students into the ranks of ACA alumni.

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Montgomery Catholic Academic Awards Ceremony Held in May Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School honored its top high school students at the annual Academic Awards Ceremony held in the Dolly Barranco Activity Center May 1, 2017.

School President Anne Ceasar began the evening with the presentation of the Charles T. Harbin Distinguished Service award to Ann Karst, for her years of dedication and volunteer service to the school. This was followed by the announcement of the students who received scholarships for the 2017-18 Academic year. The scholarship presentations included the Norma Mungenast Scholarship, the Carole Skoneki Clark Endowed Scholarship, the Sally Evans Hodges Memorial Scholarship, the Padre Pio Endowed Scholarship and the Frye, Arban, Ortega Scholarship.

Mrs. Carrie Hamiter, Norma Mungenast’s daughter, presented three scholarships in honor of her mother; recipients were Erica Blackburn, Lanie Doyle and Melody Taylor. Mr. Scott Skoneki, in honor of his sister, presented the Carole Skoneki Clark Endowed Scholarship to rising senior Paige Rentfro. Annie Bach received the Sally Evans Hodges Memorial Scholarship from Mrs. Hodges’s daughter Sally, while both Jonah Gier and Grace Leslie received the Padre Pio Endowed Scholarship. Rising senior Anna Nutting was named as the Frye, Arban, Ortega scholarship recipient.

Many honors were bestowed during the evening, including the most outstanding student in each subject area. These students are Michael Barber, Paige Rentfro, Katie Galvin and Clare Wilson in English; Lisa Hong, Henry Petters, Scott Nation and Charlie O’Donnell in Math; Michael Barber, Henry Petters, Emily Talbot and Sofie Izer in Science; James Sadie, Morris Lottinger, HannahLeigh Haigler, Paige Rentfro, Emma Gandy and Clare Wilson in Social Studies; Michael Barber, Paige Rentfro, Katie Galvin and Clare Wilson in Theology; Melody Taylor and Sophie Izer in Spanish and Reagan Herbek and Henry Petters in Latin. The Art department named most outstanding students: in art Nate Smith, in band - Henry Petters, in drama - Leah Taylor and in choir - Chris Waring.

The new and senior members of the Loretto chapter of the National Honor Society (NHS) were recognized during the ceremony: Johnny An, Aimee Azar, Carrie Belsterling, Alex Brockmann, Trinity Carter, Jessie Clark, Luke Craig, Katie Fischer, Hannaley Haigler, Ryne Herbek, Lisa Hong,Ryan Janson, Minseok Kim, Garret McGinn, Jenni Morgan, Kamryn Morris, Collin Neal,

Chloe Newell, Anna Nutting, Henry Pet- of Montgomery. ters, David Poole, Paige Rentfro, Ethan Montgomery Catholic Preparatory Ronan, Katie Slear, Annabel Starrett, School President Anne Ceasar awarded Matthew Taylor, Aleigha Walden, Anthe Montgomery Catholic Ideal Graduate gela Wheat and Chalsea Williams. The Award to the student who embodies the NHS senior members are: Riley Carrigan overall qualities and talents of an ideal Aaron, Ivy Louise Bach, David Michael graduate. This year the Ideal GraduBender, Adam Angelo Bristol, Franate at Montgomery Catholic was Audrey cisco Gonzalez-Ansaldi, Seoeui Hong, Kim, daughter of Susan and Duk Kim of Devin Lane Kelly, Audrey Yoonah Kim, Montgomery.

Minseok Kim, Kevin Patrick Leahy, Kayanna Nicole McKenzie, David Alan Poole, Jr, Julia Allison Rodriguez, Ethan Jackson Ronan, James Hamilton Sadie, Katelyn Marie Slear, Lauren Nicole Smith, Nathan Michael Smith, Zachary Jacob VanAlst and William Hugh Walker.

Honor cords were given to the seniors who participated in Science Olympiad, Mu Alpha Theta and Key Club.

Students with the highest grade-point average for each high school grade level were also recognized. The most outstanding freshman is Clare Wilson; most outstanding sophomore is Reagan Herbek; most outstand- From left are Montgomery Catholic President Anne ing junior is Henry Petters; Ceasar, Montgomery Catholic Leader of the Year James Sadie, Ideal Graduate Audrey Kim and Catholic High and the most outstanding senior for the class of 2017 School Principal Justin Castanza. is Ivy Bach.

Honor roll certificates for both the A and A/B honor rolls were given to those students who attained A or A/B honor roll throughout the school year for each grade level. The Joe Arban Perfect Attendance Award was given to Emma Gandy and Mitchell Aaron for having perfect attendance this year.

The evening culminated with two of the highest awards given at Montgomery Catholic: Leader of the Year and the Ideal Graduate.

High School Principal Justin Castanza awarded the Montgomery Catholic Leader of the Year award to James Sadie, who has served the school in numerous leadership positions throughout his school career including a From left are Most Outstaning Senior Ivy Bach, Most leader in SGA, a National Honor Oustanding Junior Henry Petters, Most Outstanding Society member and a Youth Sophomore Reagan Herbek and Most Outstanding Legislature team member. He is Freshman Clare Wilson. the son of Lisa and John Sadie 31

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Montgomery Academy Incoming Seniors Take Philanthropy 101

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For three weeks, 12 rising seniors at Montgomery Academy participated in the Philanthropy 101 course, which provides an in-depth study of charitable and nonprofit organizations in our community. Led by faculty members Denise Wentworth and Mandy Poundstone, the class is made possible through funding from The W. James Samford, Jr. Foundation, Mr. and Mrs. Temple Millsap and Mr. and Mrs. Barrie Harmon. Students selected to take part in the course were: Austyn Barnes, Spencer Campbell, Kevin Doh, Andrew Harris, Kate Harris, Caroline Kirkham, Luke Knight, Ben Marquess, Martha Glen Sease, Mary Stewart Shegon, Fred Tippett and John Wakefield.

The course teaches students about nonprofit organizations by hosting representatives from local groups who give detailed presentations on the day-to-day workings of their organization and how their organization helps those in need. Students also spend a portion of each day “in the field,” helping the local organizations directly by volunteering their time. Through this, students are able to learn about their ability to make a difference and the variety of ways to give.

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

During the class this summer, students heard presentations about, visited and/or did community service with these non-profit organizations: Adams Foundation, Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Alabama Wildlife Federation, Brantwood Children’s Home, Camp ASCCA, Camp Seale Harris, Central Alabama Community Foundation, Child Protect, Children’s Hospital of Alabama, Dream Court, Father Purcell Memorial Exceptional Children’s Center, Habitat for Humanity, Hope Inspired Ministries, Huntingdon College, One Church Mission, Mary Ellen’s Hearth, Medical Outreach Ministries, Mobile Food Pantry, Montgomery Area Council on Aging (MACOA), Montgomery Area Food Bank, New Heights for Youth, Respite Care Ministry (First United Methodist Church), Salvation Army and Valiant Cross Academy.

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

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Holy Cross Teachers Attend Geology Workshop

Macon East Named AISA AA Softball State Runners-up

After five consecutive seasons as the state champion, the Macon East Academy Lady Knights softball team came up one game short this year at the AISA state tournament.

One week prior to the tournament, Macon East beat Autauga Academy with a walk-off homerun from Dawn Johnson to win the region and go into the final tournament as the number-one seed. A loss early in day two of the tournament put the Knights in another showdown with the Autauga Generals. Unfortunately for the Knights, a walk-off from Autauga ended the streak.

However, Coach Glynn Lott was proud of the team’s season and its overall 52-12 record. Macon East’s Dawn Johnson (catcher), Cadey Brown (outfield) and Caroline Capps (pitcher) were named to the all-tournament team. The Knights graduated seven seniors from this year’s team, four of whom will continue their softball careers in college.

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From left, Holy Cross Episcopal School second-grade teacher Ann Takacs and thirdgrade teacher Kathy Black recently attended a special camp for teachers entitled “Rocking Inquiry-Based Science (RIBS): Helping Teachers Make Geology Fun.” Teachers learned about sandstone investigations, geospheres, topography and watersheds while using inquiry-based learning to explore and gather facts to not only learn the geology of Alabama; but also, how to transform their classroom into a more creative and fun environment.

Camp McDowell is the camp and conference center of the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama, and since it was established in Winston County in 1947, it has become the largest Episcopal camp and conference center in the United States.

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ACA Holds Field Day

Alabama Christian Academy’s K4 and K5 program had fun in the sun at this year’s Field Day! With the help of their senior buddies, ACA students played with water activities, jumped in a bounce house, ran relay races, and even participated in an old fashioned tug-of-war.

It was a great end to a fun-filled year between the senior class and their K4/ K5 buddies!

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Holy Cross Show Choir Offered Area Performances at River Region During 2016-17 School Year

Holy Cross Episcopal School’s Show Choir, under the direction of music teacher Beverly Fain, enjoyed performing this school year for Holy Cross special school events, but choir members also enjoyed very much regularly travelling to sing for Montgomery Cancer Center, as well as various assisted living and nursing home facilities throughout the River Region. The many musical programs performed highlighted special holiday events and seasonal celebrations.

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

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

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Montgomery Catholic Celebrates 2017 Graduates

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s 142nd Commencement Exercises took place in the Father Pat Delahunty Memorial Gymnasium on the grounds of the Middle/ High School campus at the Vaughn Road location May 23, 2017.

Archbishop Thomas J. Rodi, Superintendent of Education Gwendolyn Byrd, Montgomery Catholic President Anne Ceasar and High School Principal Justin Castanza were joined by Monsignor Charles Troncale, Father Patrick Driscoll ‘84, Father Zachary Greenwell, Father Linn Harbour, Father Victor Ingalls, Father Alex Valladares, Deacon Nicholas Napolitano and Deacon Jim Labadie, as the special guests of the class. Salutatorian Ivy Louise Bach and co-valedictorians David Michael Bender and Audrey Yoonah Kim addressed their fellow graduates, special guests, family and friends after the class received diplomas from Archbishop Rodi. The Class of 2017, along with alumni, sang the Montgomery Catholic Alma Mater “Catholic, Our Refuge” led

by Montgomery Catholic teacher Kerri Moore before saluting the school one final time in the school gym.

Members of the junior and sophomore class hosted the graduates and their families at a reception in the Dolly Barranco Activity Center following the ceremony.

The 77 members of the Class of 2017 have earned $10.5 million in scholarship offers from 27 colleges and universities across the United States. Graduates include: a Jimmy Hitchcock Award winner, 10 future college athletes, a seminarian, a U.S. Air Force Academy appointee, a United States Marine recruit, a Montgomery Fire Department recruit, and a National Merit qualifier.

The Class of 2017 is comprised of: Riley Carrigan Aaron, Lauren Skye Alexander, Brian Martin Anderson, Ivy Louise Bach, Nadine Marilag Back, Michael Joseph Barber, Tyler Vaughn Barranco, Victoria Morgan Barranco, Preston Kass Beesley, David Michael Bender, Saxton De`Aire Bibbins, Adam Angelo Bristol, Jeong Yeon Choi, Caleb Joseph Cobb, William Chandler Couey, Maria Giovanna Cretosi Bissi, Gabrielle Rene` Dallas, Joshua McCord Davis, Payton Michael Dennis, Camryn Mary Denver, Danny Van Do, Daniel Joseph Downes, III, Michaelyn Grace Foster, Patton Sullivan Fralish, Amber Anissa Gibson, Francisco GonzalezAnsaldi, James Adam Hall, Cheyenne Celina Marie Hayes, Kyle Foster Hines, Nicolas Christian Homsher, Seoeui Hong, Denise Jaimes, Devin Lane Kelly, Audrey Yoonah Kim, Kyu Rin Kim, Minseok Kim, Joshua Patrick Koch, Kevin Patrick Leahy, Sarah Ashleigh Little, Morris Albert Lottinger, IV, Samuel Clark McCracken, Kayanna Nicole McKenzie, Tomislav Thomas Ante Anthony Nekic, Michael Belin O’Connor, Angel Alexander Padilla, Solbi Park, Antwan Marquis Parker, Landon Howard Pinckard, David Alan Poole, Jr., Andrew Dawson Pritchett, Emily Trey Rayborn, Tyler Warren Richardson, Julia Allison Rodriguez, Ansley Marie Rohde, Ethan Jackson Ronan, James Hamilton Sadie, Carson McLean Scott, Hyuntaek Seo, Blair Kobe Simmons, Katelyn Marie Slear, George William Sloan, III, Kathryn Marie Smith, Lauren Nicole Smith, Nathan Michael Smith, Collin Patrick Stewart, Benjamin Thomas Talbot, Iyana Ty’Keese Tate, Leah Elizabeth Taylor, Johnathon McNeill Towle, Tamrah Shaqelle Tucker, Jakayla Onia Turner, Zachary Jacob VanAlst, Alejandra Sofia Vazquez, Lucy Erin Waite, Auston Michael Walden, William Hugh Walker and Winston Daniel Wright.

Shown are the 17 members of the graduating class who have attended Montgomery Catholic Schools since kindergarten. Photo courtesy of Total Image.

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Holy Cross Congratulates Graduating Class of 2016-17

Graduates from Holy Cross Episcopal School’s sixth grade gathered with family and friends for the Celebration and Festival Eucharist for the Commencement of the Sixth Grade Class on May 24, 2017. The students

entered Melanie Kelley Hall to the traditional processional of “Pomp and Circumstance” following by an offertory musical selection entitled, “Child of Tomorrow,” presented by the fifthgrade choral group, featuring soloists Izzy Priori and Turner Clements, under the direction of Holy Cross Episcopal School’s music teacher, Beverly Fain. Sixthgrade teacher Patricia Bye offered meaningful anecdotes as she addressed each gradu-

ate and shared remembrances and poignant well wishes for each one of her students.

Rev. Daniel Strandlund delivered a very special graduation homily within the Eucharist and offered each of the graduates encouraging and uplifting counsel as they transition to the 7th grade and beyond. Holy Eucharist was celebrated

by Rev. Daniel Strandlund, Rev. David Peeples and Rev. Bob Hennagin, area Episcopal parish priests and concluded with a blessing for the graduates and their families.

After the ceremony, graduates and their families moved into the school library for a trip down memory lane with a slide show of pictures from the past. Afterwards, a beautiful reception was served in Melanie Kelley Hall to honor the graduates, families and friends who joined us on this very special day.

Front row from left, Reagan Smith, Jai Ivy Raines, Allie Troy and Caroline Gregory; back row, Claire Gary, Brett Westhauser, Kameron Tuck, Louis Bradford and Nasir Burton.

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MA Teacher Named to American Choral Directors Association Board

The American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) has named The Montgomery Academy’s Dr. Damion Womack the Senior High School Choirs National Chair. He is one of three new national Repertoire & Resources (R&R) chairs.

Womack is currently director of the arts at The Montgomery Academy, where he oversees the K-12 Visual and Performing Arts program and conducts the Upper School Chorus. Choruses under his leadership have been invited to perform at state and Southern Division conferences of ACDA and state and national conferences of the National Association for Music Education. Womack is a past recipient of the Award for Excellence in Teaching at The Montgomery Academy. He is an active conductor and clinician and has served in this capacity in Alabama, Georgia, South Carolina, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina and Illinois. He is also a past president of the Alabama Vocal Association. Womack holds a B.S. from Alabama A&M University, M.M.Ed. from Alabama State University, and a D.M.A in Choral Conducting from the University of South Carolina.

Womack joins a team of national R&R chairs who are specialists in a variety of areas, including choir types (like junior high/ middle school choirs or community choirs) and repertoire-specific areas (such as contemporary/commercial or vocal jazz).

National chairs are selected for their experience and expertise in their particular area.

Their leadership duties include collaborating in selecting music that is to be presented in reading sessions at ACDA national conferences, serving on audition panels for choirs that apply to perform at national conferences, and in general providing leadership in their area of expertise.

ACDA’s executive director, Dr. Tim Sharp, noted, when announcing the appointments, “We are delighted with the appointment of professionals of the caliber of these three new chairs, and look forward to the innovative leadership that they will bring to ACDA.” American Choral Directors Association (ACDA) is made up of approximately 20,000 members who conduct and teach a range of choirs, including school and university-based choirs, community choral groups, professional ensembles, and music in worship.

Sunday, July 30 & Monday, July 31, 2017

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This performance is made possible by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

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Montgomery County Schools

Alabama Christian Announces Mr. and Miss ACA

A longstanding tradition at Alabama Christian Academy is awarding two senior students the prestigious honor of Mr. and Miss ACA. These individuals exemplify excellence in academics, leadership and spirituality and pose high levels of integrity, self-discipline and courage. They have led their lives in such a manner that ACA is proud to have them represent our school.

Mr. ACA for 2017 is Blake Mitchell, who serves as Senior Class vice-president, student director for the ACA Chorus, and section leader for the Marching and Concert Bands.

He is also a member of the Student Action Leadership Team, National Honor Society, Jazz Band and Vocal Jazz Group. Mitchell plants to attend Samford University and major in vocal music education.

Miss ACA for 2017 is Laura Nickolson, who plans to attend the University of North Alabama in the fall and major in nursing.

She is a member of the varsity volleyball and softball teams, Athletic Ambassadors, Key Club, Prayer Group, Capture Club, Pep Club and National Honor Society.

Macon East Inducts New Thespian Members

To be inducted into Macon East Academy’s International Thespian Society troupe, students must participate in at least two theatre events and earn a minimum of 10 points. Students earn points for their work in the theatre arts. This includes activities such as acting lessons, drama club membership, participation in theatre performances, and theatre attendance.

This year four students, Ann Morgan Stewart, Valorie Roberts, Rachel Sargent and Lane Johnson, were inducted by President Hannah Grace Johnson and Vice President Madison Folkes.

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TheCollegeYears Preparing Teens for Life Outside the Nest

by Lee Gonet

Why Your Child Should Start a Resume at Age 12 Do you try to talk with your child and they just stare blankly? You ask, “What did you do today?” Response: “Nothing exciting.” You inquire, “What did you learn?”

Response: “Nothing important.”

Patience is always called for in these moments because, unlike adults, who are always reviewing past conversations or planning future events, children live in the moment and what happened that morning is irrelevant to them. However, regardless of how different a teen’s world is from an adult’s, your child’s future depends on past performances.

A good record of these events is a resume. Be the facilitator, and allow your children to chronicle this information. Teach them to list items from most recent to oldest, to update their lists quarterly, and to remove the older entries as students gain experience. They will learn valuable life skills from this experience, and as adults, they will have a current resume when needed.

Education Rather than listing schools and completion, your child will be recording subjects and grades. This process reminds students to do their best and to take ownership of their education. They regularly can see their progress, recorded by their own hand, rather than on a report card that someone else imposes upon them.

It also reminds them to work towards the next step, that education is a progressive life-long endeavor and not just a forced activity from 8 to 3, Monday through Friday, August to May! In addition, dual enrollment courses, AP classes, and entrance tests can be emphasized.

Employment Even if your children are not currently employed, they should still record any opportunities in which they have earned money outside the home. This technique familiarizes them with the format of a resume. They begin to identify the value of work and to recognize skill sets they are developing.

Skills Throughout daily life, students acquire desirable skills, which they may not identify as employable traits. Examples include, but are not limited to: Technology (typing, spreadsheets, data processing), Communication (letter writing, dictation, public speaking, social media posting), and Research (knowledge of cataloguing systems, use of scholarly web resources).

Of course, students should add details, and online resumes can provide professional examples.

Volunteerism Students volunteer more than they think, and employers, colleges, and those granting scholarships often evaluate prospects by their service records. Recording these opportunities not only instills an awareness of the many needs in our communities, but it also creates a strong desire to continue contributing.

Students should itemize all club memberships, leadership positions, and awards.

Keeping an updated list will help them remember events as well as how these activities have impacted their lives.

Addendum Students should also create three additional files within their resume folder.

1. Writing Samples. A current portfolio of essays, poetry, and research papers will demonstrate improvement and quickly provide samples when requested by colleges.

2. Book Lists. Occasionally, colleges (and even employers) will ask students about their most recently read books.

Keeping an updated list of titles and authors enables students to appreciate the amount they have read, recognize value in different types of books, and recall quickly any that may have impressed them.

3. Letters of Recommendation.

Oftentimes, student work is temporary, but children wait to ask for a letter of recommendation until one is requested by a prospective employer, college, or scholarship provider. Don’t wait! Teachers and employers who recognize excellence, grateful neighbors, or appreciative church leaders are all more than willing to write complimentary evaluations upon request.

Whew! That’s a lot of information, isn’t it? Your children will think so too, but if you start early enough, they will view the project with anticipation and respect. After all, they are launching into their adulthood with knowledge of what will be required of them and what is valued by our society: a servant’s heart and a strong work ethic.

Experiences Activities, clubs, travels, and individual interests reflect the values and different personalities of students. College admission boards are particularly interested in how well-rounded applicants are and what benefits they will bring to the student body.

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Lee Gonet is an avid learner, speaker, educator, and world traveler. She loves challenging teenagers to excel beyond what society considers possible by teaching young people to think deeply, learn intensely, and act purposefully outside the classroom box. For example, her daughter worked abroad by 16 and her son earned his Engineering Master’s by 20. Dreams do come true.

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The 201617 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, and 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 2017 the very best in their future endeavors. I would like to recognize the valedictorians and salutatorians of our high schools.

Autaugaville – Valedictorian, Zanesha Rhodes; Salutatorian, Dominique Scott Billingsley – Valedictorian, Brannon Zaner; Salutatorian, Landon Reed Marbury High – Valedictorian, Nicholas Johnson; Salutatorian, Rheannon Primm

Prattville High – Valedictorian, Wesley Donhauser; Salutatorian, Keitt Trammell Accolades don’t cease with the start of our summer break. Ms. Jennifer Reeves has been named ACCESS Facilitator of the Year. She was presented the award during the opening session of the Alabama Educational Technology Conference on June 14th in Hoover. Congratulations, Ms. Reeves, for a job well done!

The end of a school year wouldn’t be the same without field trips. What could be more meaningful or educational than a trip to our nation’s capital? Daniel Pratt Elementary School and Prattville Intermediate School took almost 82 sixth-grade students to Washington, D.C. Sites visited included U.S. Marine Corps, Air Force, and 9/11 Pentagon Memorials, Jefferson Memorial, Lincoln Memorial, Iwo Jima Marine Corps Memorial, Vietnam and Korean War Memorials, FDR Memorial, Martin Luther King Memorial, and the World War II Memorial, where the group met with veterans. They also visited the Holocaust Museum, Air & Space Museum, Museum of Natural History,

Museum of American History, National Art Gallery, National Archives (to see the Declaration of Independence, U.S. Constitution, and Bill of Rights), Arlington Cemetery and the Changing of the Guard, Kennedy Center, Washington National Cathedral, Supreme Court, Library of Congress, and Mount Vernon. We certainly appreciate the teachers, administrators, and parents who made this trip possible. What a great experience for our students!

The new school year is right around the corner. The principals are working to get their schools staffed and cleaned for the new school year. We anticipate another great year for 2017-2018, and I look forward to sharing the wonderful achievements of our system and students with you in the fall right here in Montgomery Parents. Also, like us on Facebook and stay informed!

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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The Arts Council of Montgomery Holds Annual ACES Competition

The Arts Council of Montgomery held its 29th Annual Artistic Competition for Exceptional Students (ACES) event on March 4 and 11 at the Armory Learning Arts Center on Madison Avenue. The competition, open to local 6th- through 12th-grade students, was held in eight areas of artistic expression: acting, dance, guitar, instrumental, piano, strings, visual and voice. One-hundred sixty River Region students participated.

Scholarships, awarded in vouchers, were presented in each category: Jr. High 1st place $250, 2nd place $150 and 3rd place $50; Sr. High 1st place $500, 2nd place $300 and 3rd place $100.

Winners were as follows: 2017 MUSICAL WINNERS JR. HIGH: Guitar 1st Place – Paulina Roughton – Prattville Intermediate, 2nd Place – Seungyeon Choi – Baldwin, 3rd Place – (Eric) Seungryal Lim – Baldwin and HM – Regan McLaughlin – Baldwin; Instrumental 1st Place – Grace Brennan – Wetumpka Middle, 2nd Place – Tristan McGinnis – Wetumpka Middle, 3rd Place – Logan Riddle – Wetumpka Middle and HM – Ben Strole – Floyd Middle; Piano 1st Place – Raymond Hou – Baldwin, 2nd Place – Isaac Cheon – Baldwin, 3rd Place – Zoey Moore – Baldwin and HM – Catherine Chu – Baldwin; Strings 1st Place – Ciwoun Sam Hahn – Baldwin, 2nd Place – Nathaniel J. Simon – Home School, (tie) 3rd Place – Raymond Hou and Hannah Faulk – Baldwin and HM – Samuel Lee – Baldwin.

SR. HIGH Guitar 1st Place – Felix Wang – LAMP, 2nd Place – Seon Hong – LAMP, 3rd Place – Scott Gardner – SUA and HM – Graeme DePace – Home School; Instrumental 1st Place – Martha Yin – LAMP, 2nd Place – Abigail Pace – Home School, 3rd Place – Jackson Penso – Montgomery Catholic and HM – Payton Kerr – BTW; Piano 1st Place – Kelly Yoon – The Montgomery Academy, 2nd Place – Hankyung Kim – LAMP, 3rd Place – Morgan Acosta – Ezekiel Academy and HM – Shinyeong Shim – BTW; Strings 1st Place – Bethany Simon – Home School; 2nd Place – Min Joon Park – Prattville High, 3rd Place – Teresa Ford – BTW and HM – Eric Doh – The Montgomery Academy and HM – Sarah Eunsu Kim – LAMP. 2017 PERFORMING WINNERS JR. HIGH: Dance 1st Place – Jane Abbie Alford – The Montgomery Academy, 2nd Place – Emily Efferson – Homeschool, 3rd Place – Abigail Barr – ALVA and HM – Ines Gonzalez-Ansaldi – Montgomery Catholic; Visual 1st Place – Adela Sheng – Fine Art Studio, 2nd Place – Sang eun Lee (Julie) – Fine Art Studio, 3rd Place – Seoyeon Lee (Jessica) – Fine Art Studio and HM – Ji-Hyun Kim – Fine Art Studio.

SR. HIGH Acting 1st Place – Lucy Wilson – LAMP, 2nd Place – Preston Thomson – Success Unlimited Academy, 3rd Place – Valorie Roberts – Macon East Academy and HM – Isaac Garrison – BTW; Dance 1st Place – Blayke Adkinson – Park Crossing High School, 2nd Place – Virginia Perry – Homeschool, 3rd Place – Orobosa Aghedo – Homeschool and HM – Catherine Cobb – BTW; Visual 1st Place – Emily Wells Kent – Saint James School, 2nd Place – Francie Hill –The Montgomery Academy, 3rd Place – Seol Yun—Park Crossing High School and HM – Erin Dickey – Saint James School.

Shown above are first-place Musical winners.

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Autauga Academy Student Honored in Statewide Magazine

Jordon Parks, a senior at Autauga Academy, is honored as a Teen Spotlight in Potential Magazine for excelling in academics and athletics; he is featured alongside his mother, Renee Archie.

At Autauga Academy, Parks shines both on the court and off. He has received numerous awards for his skills in basketball, including MVP of the Autauga Academy Christmas Basketball Tournament and Honorable Mention for All Metro Basketball 2015-16. He is involved in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, the choir at New Life Missionary Baptist Church, and the Brother-to-Brother mentoring program.

Parks’s mother said she admires his “fun-loving personality and positive outlook,” adding, “I also admire his drive and determination to work hard at the things he wants.”

Parks plans to continue his legacy on the court, sharing, “My goal is to play professional basketball and then become a coach so that I can pay it forward to the next generation after me.”

Potential Magazine is a multi-media resource for parents of college-bound teenagers. In each issue, high achieving students in the 7th-12th grades are featured and entered to win the $500 “Reach Your Potential” scholarship awarded in May. Teens are recommended by their school or community leaders for excelling in one or more of the following areas: academics, business, leadership, philanthropy, overcoming adversity, citizenship and community service, athletics, and the arts. Potential Magazine’s advisory board chooses teens to feature in each issue and select the scholarship winner in May from each of the finalists.

“We love spotlighting teens in Alabama and gaining great advice from their parents,” said Pam Mashburn, publisher of Potential.

Teens who are selected participate in an interview and photo shoot along with their parents for a spotlight feature in the magazine and website. Nomination forms can be found on www.potentialmagazine.com.

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

Marbury Senior Class of 2017 Breaks School Record in Scholarship Money

The Class of 2017 broke a Marbury High School record in the amount of scholarship money the students received. In total, these students received more than $1,818,803 in scholarships. (Photos courtesy of Prestige Portraits, a division of Lifetouch).

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MHS FFA Excels at State Convention

The Marbury Future Farmers of America had another successful year at the annual State FFA Convention the week of June 6-9. Career Development Events (CDEs) were held at Opelika High School and Auburn University on June 6 and the main convention was held at the MPAC the remainder of the week.

Results were as follows: Gracen Sims, shown at right, was named State FFA secretary. This is the highest leadership position a student in the organization can hold at the state level. Sims also won second place in Prepared Public Speaking.

String Band, 4th Place was the team of Nick Johnson, Cameron Duncan and Tate Duncan.

Vet Science, 10th in the state went to Hope Gross, Jessica Quillman, Brianna Roberts and Madison Vice.

Horse Judging, 11th in the state was the team of Jordynn Frakes, Thomas Hilbilsh and Payton Scroggins.

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Marbury Junior Chosen For Baseball All-Stars

Marbury’s Adams Signs Basketball Scholarship

Taylor Adams is the daughter of Brandy and Mike Henline. She has been a starter for Marbury High School’s Girls’ Varsity Basketball Team for four consecutive years. Every year she has improved her skills and eventually helped lead her team to the second playoff berth in the last decade for Girls’ Basketball. Adams has scored more than 1,100 total points and grabbed more than 600 rebounds during her career as a Bulldog.

She is signing with Wallace Community College in Selma. One of her goals is to help the basketball program be successful. She has chosen nursing as her career path.

Brayden Baggett, a junior at Marbury High School, has been named to play in the North/South All-Star baseball game this summer. This honor goes to very few juniors.

Photo courtesy of Lifetouch Photography.

Pine Level Hosts Family Event at Lanark

Pine Level Elementary School hosted a Parental Involvement Event at the Alabama Nature Center at Lanark in Millbrook May 6. Approximately 150 students and parents were able to attend this event free of charge. Activities included the aquatic roundup, a live animal presentation, a skins & skulls presentation and a visit to the Discovery Hall. Families brought their lunches and ate in the picnic area. It was a day filled with lots of exploration and family time!

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Summer is in full swing and we are busy in Elmore County! We tend to think that the end of the school year will allow us to slow our pace during the summer months, but summer is often our busiest time of year.

Numerous activities are going on throughout the school system this summer. Hiring new staff continues as positions become available. Our maintenance department is working diligently to complete facilities upgrades prior to the start of school in August. Students are involved in a variety of activities such as elementary summer camps, athletic practices, band camps, middle and high school summer school, 21st Century Community Learning Center activities, and Elmore County Technical Center’s Camp Discovery for rising ninth graders. Administrators, teachers, and other staff members participate in various professional development sessions and conferences related to their areas of

responsibility. Curriculum planning for 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. As you can see, summer is just a “different kind of busy” than the regular school year!

This summer marks our third year of participation in the USDA Summer Food Service Program. This open program allows us to provide breakfast and/or lunch meals to any individual 18 years of age or younger (age 19 if still enrolled in school). We currently have 33 different groups participating in the program, up from approximately 25 groups in our first year. Meals are provided to students in all of the activities mentioned previously as well as to children in various community programs.

Approximately 1,000 lunch meals alone are prepared daily at a central location and delivered to various sites around the county, all at no cost to the system or the children receiving the meals. In addition, this summer’s menus offer expanded options and more variety which the students have thoroughly enjoyed!

Our Child Nutrition staff begins preparing for this program early in the spring in order to be able to provide nutritious meals to as many children as possible throughout the county.

Our feedback from the school activities and community programs participating in the summer food service program has been overwhelmingly positive, and we look forward to continuing to provide this valuable service to our schools and community.

We are looking forward to the start of the 2017-2018 school year, excited about the opportunity to greet our new and returning students. Our number one goal in Elmore County is to help each and 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 completed his undergraduate degree in English and History Education at The University of Alabama, his Master’s degree in English at Troy University and his Administrative Certification at AUM. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.

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2-1-1 Salutes 9-1-1

HandsOn River Region has planned a month long initiative in commemoration of the anniversary of 9-11. The new campaign is called “2-1-1 Salutes 9-1-1: The Most Important Person You May Never Meet” and invites the public to show support by providing care baskets filled with items requested by the dispatchers themselves. HandsOn will assemble and deliver the baskets to 9-1-1 personnel to show appreciation for the lifesaving assistance they provide.

Suggested care basket items include: lip balm, bottled water, nail care kit/nail file, peppermints/gum/cough drops, hand sanitizer/ lotion, notebook and pen, healthy snacks, Tylenol/ibuprofen, coffee/tea, small mirror, eyeglass cleaning cloth, ear buds/cell phone charger and $5 gift card.

In conjunction with this effort, HandsOn’s Disaster Preparedness experts will visit area elementary schools to ensure students are aware of and understand the importance of 9-1-1 and what situations warrant a call for help.

A simple handwritten thank-you note or card is another wonderful way to show your support and would be greatly appreciated.

If you’d like to participate, please deliver your donation to HandsOn River Region’s office at 101 Coliseum Boulevard in Montgomery between 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m., Monday through Thursday.

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

New TV Shows Join PBS KIDS

Spend your summer exploring the great outdoors and learning about the surrounding natural history with new and favorite returning Wild Kratts one-hour specials! Starting July 23, join Chris and Martin Kratt as they explore the bottoms of the ocean aboard Aviva’s newly designed Deep Sea Explorer in Wild Kratts: Creatures of the Deep Sea. Then, premiering on July 26, the all-new Wild Kratts Alaska: Hero’s Journey takes kids on an adventure through the Alaskan wilderness to save one of Aviva’s breakthrough inventions.

Immediately after the Wild Kratts one-hour specials, the Kratt brothers will host Wild Alaska Live, a three-part live presentation exploring the natural spectacles of the Alaskan wilderness – perfect for the whole family!

Also, on August 14, tune in for the premiere of the brand-new Ready Jet Go! one-hour special, Back to Bortron 7. When Jet’s parents need to return to their home planet, Sean and Sydney join the Propulsion family on an epic adventure to Bortron 7.

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Elmore County Schools

Homeschool Co-op Graduates Seniors

Academy Days Co-op honors its graduating seniors as they embark on a new chapter in their lives. Millbrook resident Grace Moore, Montgomery resident Caleb Brailsford and Hayneville resident Bethany Haigler 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 computer programming, science labs, psychology, speech, marketing, drama and P.E. Visit www.AcademyDays. com for more information.

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Eclectic Elementary Students of the Month for May

Kindergarten: Xavier Evans, Gavin Tadlock, Brandon Rogers, A.J. Gantt, Tanner Wilson and Landon Forbus; 1st Grade: Conner Holt, Logan Lamberth, Caitlyn Stone, Daisy Thomas, Parker Butler and Savannah Brewer; 2nd Grade: Brantley Ballard, Tyce Maynard, Keauna Walker, Miley Goggans and Audrey Preciado; 3rd Grade: Mackenzie Pritchard, Sam Diego-Mateo, Mason Pack, Jasmine Ramirez, Asher Justice and Isabella Fulmer; 4th Grade: Dallin Simpson, Alison Bipes, Jazzy Deriso, Kate Johnson and Jackson Mann.

Graduates of Millbrook Junior Police Academy

ECTC Students, Teacher Attend Leadership Conference

Two Elmore County Technical Center Computer Technology students and their teacher are attending the SkillsUSA National Leadership and Skills Conference in Louisville, Ky. Tony Bullard from Holtville High School and Jackson Dean from Elmore County High School will be competing at the conference. Both are shown with Ken Spivey, Computer Technology instructor at ECTC.

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

Being a Millbrook Police Department Junior Police Academy graduate was fun for the six students who made it through the weeklong course and graduated in late June. The Academy was held at Millbrook Middle School, and a second group of students was due to attend the following week.

For the second year, the police department hosted the Junior Police Academy, with 14 students enrolling for the first week, but only six graduating. Friday the group met in the lunchroom of Millbrook Middle School to accept their diplomas and congratulations from the officers and Chief of Police P.K. Johnson.

Graduates from the first week’s camp were: Alex Wheland, Sean Kelsoe, Danyla Caffee, Jonathan Moncrief, Lysee Spigner and Dawhaun Caffee.

On the first day of the Academy, the students were timed in a one-mile run. On Friday, Lt. Johnson said that all of them improved throughout the week on their times, but he recognized one of the graduates in particular. Lysee Spigner had an exceptional time the first go around, but on the final day lagged behind to encourage one of her Academy mates to do their best, and also improved their time.

“She displayed what it means to be a part of the team, and for that, I wanted to recognize her,” Lt. Johnson said.

Overall, Sean Kelso had the fastest time in the one-mile run with 7:42.

Officers helping throughout the week included Reserve Officer Lt. Joey Hamilton (athletics, firearms and more), Captain John Hurst (SWAT, SRT and firearms), Lt. Johnny Russell (crime scene investigation), Lt. Keith Plaisance (field sobriety), Corporal Scott Liles (self defense), and Corporal Joshua Bonner (traffic.)

Lt. Johnson had high praise for the Elmore County Partnership for Children, which helped provide breakfast and lunch for the students each day of camp. “Groups like this help us to keep this academy free for the students,” Lt. Johnson said. “I also appreciate Millbrook Middle School for allowing us the use of the building.”

Story and photo courtesy of Elmore Autauga News.

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JROTC Academic Team from Stanhope Elmore Competes in Washington, D.C.

After advancing through two phases of online competition, Stanhope Elmore High School’s JROTC Academic Team, comprised of Braden McGee, Kayla Holmes, Donovan Green, Michael Hale, Brianna Smith, and Brionna Smith competed in person at the final Championship event of The 2017 Army JROTC Academic Bowl Championships.

This team is the only one in the State of Alabama and one of only twenty-four Army JROTC Academic Bowl teams in the nation to advance to the finals. In the two fast-paced preliminary rounds, students were tested on their knowledge of JROTC curriculum, English, math and science.

During the initial two rounds of competitive online play, Stanhope’s JROTC team earned top scores out of 1,460 teams to include teams from Germany, Italy, Japan, Korea, Puerto Rico, America Samoa Islands, Virgin Islands, and all 50 states to win a place in the National Academic Bowl competition and the all-expense paid trip to D.C. At press time, the Stanhope JROTC Mustang Battalion was set to compete in a 15 Team Round Robin Tournament which would lead to a Quarterfinal, Semifinal, and Final to determine The Army National Champion. The winner of the Army JROTC Academic Championship will compete against the winners of the Air Force, Marine Corps and Navy JROTC Academic Bowls in the JROTC Joint Service Academic Bowl Championship.

The competition is being held in Washington, D.C. on the campus of The Catholic University of America June 23-27. This event is sponsored by the Army JROTC and is conducted by College Options Foundation.

One of the main goals of the JROTC Academic Bowl is to prepare students for state exit/graduation exams, as well as college entrance exams such as the SAT and ACT.

ECHO’s Open House

Friday, August 4 * 10 a.m.-noon Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy., Deatsville. This is a FREE event open to families from ANY county in the area that are homeschooling or interested in homeschooling. Light refreshments will be served. Children are welcome; we will have activity tables for their enjoyment. Come find out about our group and our upcoming activities. Local vendors that offer homeschooling goods/services/opportunities will be on site to distribute information and answer questions.

For more info, contact co-Leaders Catherine Ray & Tanya Murphy at elmore.co.homeschool.org@gmail.com or visit www. onlineecho.com. You may also find us on Facebook.

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Homeschool Co-op Kindergarten Graduates

Graduating kindergartners from Academy Days Co-op show their pride as their fellow homeschoolers and parents applaud them on the last day of spring semester recently. Posing together are Gaige Vinson of Wetumpka, Dawson Halbrooks of Pike Road, Nicco Shuford of Montgomery, Israel Stephens of Millbrook and Vance Turner of Maxwell AFB. Held at Coosada Baptist Church, the Academy Days Co-op meets weekly during the school year for homeschoolers in preschool through high school. Some of the classes these new first-graders and other elementary students can look forward to taking in the fall are elementary French, computer programming, science labs, creative writing and P.E. Visit www.AcademyDays.com.

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Eclectic Elementary Top Ten Accelerated Readers

The Eclectic Elementary PTO hosted Field Day at the end of the school year. The students had a great time playing games, relay races and other activities. The Top Ten students in Accelerated Reader (most points with a 90% average or higher) in kindergarten and 1st grade were rewarded with free time to build, create and play games.

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Stanhope Principal Lets Down Hair with Students

Dr. Bill Bergeron, new principal at Stanhope Elmore High School, has also served as a United States Marine and police officer. He is known as a tough disciplinarian, but once a year he lets his hair down by sitting patiently as students with sharp objects remove his hair.

This was the first year he endured the event as the school’s new principal.

“I think this is my 15th or 16th year to do this,” Bergeron said with a smile.

Students took turns shaving his head and beard and afterwards, students and faculty enjoyed some pizza. 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 of 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!”

News and photo courtesy of Sarah Stephens, Elmore Autauga News.

Eclectic Top Readers Rewarded with Party

Eclectic Elementary students who reached their Accelerated Reader goals with a 90% average or higher were celebrated with a movie, popcorn and popsicle party and an outdoor scavenger hunt before the school year ended.

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K Your baby is about to celebrate her first birthday. You’ve probably been celebrating her development since birth in a baby book and snapping reams of photos along the way. After all, babies seem to change right before our eyes in their first year. But how will you record the exciting months and years ahead?

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Here are a few ways to capture moments, milestones and memories as your baby grows from toddler to teen.

Say what?! Kids typically begin developing the ability to speak in two to three word sentences between 18 months and two years. Keep track of their quips, funny comments and profound observations in a quotes journal. A simple notebook will do the trick. Running around? Write down what they said on a scrap of paper. Note the date and their age and slip it into your notebook or your purse to record later.

Dear Sugar. Ask friends and family to a write a letter to your child on her first birthday.

Or write a letter a year sharing anecdotes and observations about your child’s development, achievements, disappointments and why you are proud of her. These letters make a precious gift for when your child turns 18.

Remember this? Compile photos annually into a scrapbook or a digital photo book. Among the snapshots of day-to-day outings, family vacations and birthday parties, include a page dedicated to highlighting your child’s accomplishments for that year.

For example: learned to ride a bike, started kindergarten, learned to swim, lost first tooth, first home run, etc.

Talk to me. While you’ll probably video your child in action throughout childhood, take a few minutes each year to do a short interview once they start talking. Ask questions like, “What is your favorite food?” “What do you want to be when you grow up?” “What is your favorite thing to do?” “Who are your buddies right now?”

A year in pictures. Have you ever seen a compilation of photos of a child taken everyday in the same location for a year?

It’s fascinating to watch a child grow up in a photo time lapse. Try the apps “Photo 365” or “Everyday app”.

Keep it simple. Throughout the year, collect mementos in a manila folder. Include projects, letters, report cards, notes from teachers, pictures and letters by your child, medical records and school photos. At the end of each calendar year, school year or birthday, go through the file. Pick out the 51

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items you want to keep. Write the year on the folder tab and stash it in a bin designated for your child.

Try this on for size. Take an annual photo of your child in an oversized t-shirt with the date of their high school graduation. She’ll be swimming in it for the first photo, but by graduation she will have grown into it.

Patchwork of memories. Every child has t-shirts they love and wear over and over again. Over the years, they’ll also collect shirts of sporting events, favorite teams, camps, organizations and other activities that they’re involved in. Hang onto those items and have a quilt made out of the shirts to give them when they graduate from high school or college.

Measure up. Many of us use a wall in the house to pencil in our kids’ height over the years. But what if you have to move or you want to repaint? A variety of creative wall-hanging growth charts are available on the market or you could DIY. Make a large wall measuring stick out of a 1’ x 6’ x 6’ wood board (instructions for the DIY Growth Ruler are available at www.crazylifewithlittles.com).

Check out Pinterest for other crafty designs and instructions.

Hand, hand, finger, thumb. Beginning with your child’s first birthday, make wall art out of his growing handprints or footprints.

Paint an eight-inch square canvas with acrylic paint. Once the background paint dries, use a contrasting color and paint your child’s hand with a foam brush. Then guide his hand to stamp it on the canvas. Use a paint pen to write the age of your child below the hand print. Voila! You have the first of a series of annual hand prints. For more information about this project titled “yearly handprint canvas”, check out mamapapabubba.com.

Tell me a story. Record funny, harrowing and exciting stories throughout parenthood. Keep them in a file called “family stories” on your computer. Don’t forget to include your child’s birth story. Either record the anecdotes and stories in an audio file or write them out. You’ll love pulling up and sharing these stories with your kids as they get older-and they’ll love hearing them! mp Freelance writer Christa Melnyk Hines is the mom of two growing boys. She loves to collect their wise and funny comments in a quotes journal. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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8 Ways to Spark Summer Reading Most parents want to encourage reading, especially during the summer when kids often have more unstructured time. Now that so much reading occurs online, parents may wonder about the best way to nurture a reading habit. Is reading on a device as good as getting lost in an old-fashioned book?

The emerging answer is that both print and digital reading have value, but they promote different ways of thinking. One revealing study found that college students prefer reading online when they are looking for quick information.

However, when they really want to dig in and master new material, they turn to paper books. Without the distraction of clicks, students find they engage more deeply and comprehend more of what they read. Students also reported that they liked being able to manipulate physical books—underlining, writing notes in the margins, turning down corners and being able to thumb back to a favorite passage.

This study suggests that online reading often resembles snacking--quick, easy to digest, maybe even a little addictive. Physical books offer more of a meal--stimulating and nourishing on many levels. Because kids gravitate naturally to devices (and snacks), parents may want to put a little effort into helping kids discover the pleasures of print. Fortunately, most kids are receptive. A biannual study of reading habits

by Scholastic magazine found that 86% of kids think it’s important to be a good reader, and 6 in 10 agreed that, “I really enjoy reading books over the summer.” Here are some ideas about turning that spark into a flame.

Read aloud. In the Scholastic survey, kids 6–11 said that they enjoyed reading aloud, mostly because it was special time with their parents. Even after they can read independently, many kids and even teens enjoy settling in to listen to a good story. Kids who can read for Montgomery Parents I July 2017

themselves may enjoy taking turns reading. Or they might like to read dialogue with each child taking on the voice of a different character.

Hunt for books together. In the Scholastic study, 41% of kids said it was hard to find books they wanted to read. Turn the quest for good books into something you do as a family. Visit your local library regularly. Find out if there’s a story hour at the local bookshop. Hunt for bargain books at garage sales and thrift stores. Look for a Free Little Library in your neighborhood or create one of your own (littlefreelibrary.org/). Good lists of recommended books are also available from Reading Rockets (readingrockets. org/books/summer ) and the American Library Association (ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb).

Find books at the right level. Kids

sometimes disconnect from reading when books seem boring because they are too easy or frustrating because they are too hard. If possible, ask your child’s teacher to recommend books that are “just right” for your child. Or zero in on books at the right grade level by using the Scholastic book wizard (scholastic.com/teachers/bookwizard ).

Follow their lead. Like adults, kids read more of what they love. If a child gets hooked on a particular genre, author or series, run with it. And don’t get hung up on format. Magazines, graphic novels and comics can all be a gateway into reading. So can video or board games that include lots of written directions. For really reluctant readers, try activating captions on the television so kids can read along with their favorite shows.

Make it social. Enthusiasm for reading is contagious, so encourage kids to share books they like whenever possible. Some kids 54

may enjoy writing reviews on kid-friendly sites like dogobooks.com or spaghettibookclub. org. Kids can also follow favorite authors online. Many interact with readers through local readings or websites that feature games and giveaways. Or consider organizing a summer book club. PBS offers tips about how to get one going (tinyurl.com/njgpk7k).

Find the right incentives. Just

keeping a list of books they’ve finished can be motivating for some kids. Others will benefit from a small treat--maybe a gummy “bookworm” or a pack of Smarties. An entire board of clever incentives including Reading Bingo is available on Pinterest (tinyurl.com/lp6krcg). Consider using reading itself as a reward. During the summer, let children stay up an extra hour beyond bedtime--if they are reading.

Set aside time. Designate a specific time for family reading. Turning off TV, computers and cellphones makes it clear that reading is a priority. To get a better picture of how your kids are spending summer days, try using the media time calculator as well as the media planner created by Healthy Children (tinyurl.com/z8wbef5).

Get creative. Think about fun ways to integrate books into whatever you’re doing this summer. Instead of handing your child a cellphone during wait times, carry a chapter book that you can pull out in a doctor’s waiting room or between games at a tournament. Create a treasure hunt with a new book as the treasure.

Have a Reading Picnic where everyone reads outside while munching on sandwiches. Take an audio book on your family road trip. Create a secret reading space by setting up a tent in the backyard or putting a sheet over a card table.

Whatever you do, keep it light. If your goal is to have kids who read because they love it, making rules too rigorous or setting expectations too high can be counter-productive.

Experts say that reading as few as six books over the summer helps kids avoid the dreaded summer slump.

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

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Distinguished Young Women Holds Orientation Tea

The 2018 Distinguished Young Women Program of Montgomery County invites high school senior girls to participate in a scholarship program designed to inspire them to develop their full, individual potential through a fun and transformative experience. Scholarships are awarded in five categories: scholastics, interview, talent, fitness and self-expression. Other scholarships are awarded for Top Ten, 1st and 2nd Runner Up, and Spirit.

Please join us for an Orientation Tea on Sunday, August 13, at 2 p.m. at Frazer United Methodist Church, 6000 Atlanta Highway, to receive further information. Participants must reside in Montgomery County, be a United States Citizen and be graduating in 2018. This is an excellent opportunity to learn interview and speaking skills while meeting other distinguished young women from schools in the area.

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

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

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8th Annual Little Miss River Region Pageant

The 8th Little Miss River Region Pageant will be held on Saturday, August 26, at the St. Joseph’s Catholic Church Fellowship Hall in Prattville. The pageant is open to females, age 4 to 21 years, with seven age categories: Petite Miss: 4-6 years, Little Miss: 7-9 years, Pre-Teen Miss: 10-12 years, Jr. Teen Miss: 13-15 years, Teen Miss: 16- 18 years and Miss: 19-21 years.Required attire for this semi-glitz pageant is Casual Wear and Formal Wear. For all age divisions, formal wear is a long gown. Hair and makeup vendors will be on site.

The $70 entry fee includes entry into the Best Gown, Prettiest Eyes and Prettiest Hair optionals. The pageant will also offer two Supreme titles for a $25 entry fee. A People’s Choice Crown and Sash will be awarded in the Petite to Pre-Teen Division and the Jr. Teen to Miss division for the contestants who raise the most money for the Family Sunshine Center, which provides services for the families of domestic violence.

The River Region Pageant winners in each age division can advance on to the Sterling Miss USA Pageant, April 14-15, 2018, in Pell City, Alabama. River Region queens will have their entry fees paid to the Sterling Miss USA pageant, where they will represent their River Region titles. The Sterling Miss USA Pageant is open to contestants, age 4 to 36 years of age from across the United States, who will compete as titleholders for their state, region, or county. Contestants enjoy a weekend of pageant activities and also have the option to compete in the side categories of talent, fun fashion, top model photo shoot, casual wear, best actress, photogenic and spokes model. Contestants will compete for cash scholarships, gorgeous round crowns, embroidered sashes and prizes.

Applications can be downloaded from www.SterlingMiss.org (from the menu click on Holiday/Charity Pageants) or at Prattville Bridal Shop, A Touch of Class in Wetumpka, Brenda’s Formals in Clanton, and Glitz and Gowns by Missy in Alabaster.

The Little Miss River Region Pageant is produced by Diamond3 Productions, and is a preliminary pageant to the Sterling Miss USA Pageant.

The pageants are directed by DiDi Henry, who was ranked as one of the Top National Pageant Directors by Pageant Planet in 2016.

For more infor, visit www.SterlingMiss.org or call (334) 313-5444.

Shown, River Region Petite Miss Kinley Etheridge competes in formal wear.

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Regardless of where you fall on the birthday party spectrum, the bottom line is that everyone wants their child to feel celebrated and special. After all, they will only be that age once.

Here are a few ways to celebrate beyond just the birthday party.

Children’s birthday parties have gotten so complicated. These days, young guests have busy schedules, cramming multiple parties into a single weekend or cutting parties short due to time constraints. When they do come, they bring their gluten-free, nut-free, dairy-free dietary restrictions with them. This is all before you broach the increasingly divisive issue of whether or not to invite the entire class to the party or to be more discerning with the guest list.

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Celebrate Birthday Eve

Think Christmas Eve but for birthdays. No child needs reminding that their big day is approaching, they’re probably relentless in their reminders. But instead of tamping down the excitement, help them enjoy it.

Tell them about the night before you met them: Where you were, what you were doing, how you were feeling. Look through 56

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old pictures, play family home movies and best of all, sing Happy Almost Birthday.

Have A Yes Day

Play genie and grant your birthday boy or a girl a Yes Day. While a genie only gives three wishes, you will be granting your child an entire day of yes. Ice cream for breakfast? Yes! Skipping school in the lieu of a day at the beach? Yes! The only rule on Yes Day is that there are no rules.

But before you let your child’s imagination run wild, wise parents may want to set a few parameters, such as that the requests need to be reasonable and, in our family, are not to include the acquisition of pets.

Start A New Tradition

We have a tradition that my parents started – the birthday chair. The birthday child wakes up to find his place at the breakfast table decorated with streamers, balloons and other goodies, like small snacks, lip glosses, light-up buttons announcing their age, etc… My children love the birthday chair and it’s a birthday must, even when we’re traveling.

If you don’t have a tradition to carry on, it’s not too late to start one. You can deliver a special breakfast in bed, fill the room with balloons, or make a crepe paper “door” that your child has to burst through. Who knows, years from now, your child may be passing that tradition down to their children.

Plan A Trip

At first blush, a birthday trip sounds hard (and costly) to implement. But there are plenty of ways to gift a trip. You can take the whole family to a special destination, you can do a birthday getaway with both parents or you can make it a solo parent trip, for some quality one-on-one time. Finally, you can ask the grandparents to play tour guide.

Because trips are harder to pull off, pick a set birthday for the celebration. The trip can take place when your child turns double digits, is sweet 16, or when you feel comfortable with them flying as an unaccompanied minor (if you’re sending them off to grandma and grandpa).

Give Goody Bags To The Parents

Even if you decide to go the traditional birthday party route, you can still shake things up a bit. I attended a recent birthday kid party where there were goody bags – for the moms. It was brilliant. After all, parents handle the RSVPs, buy the presents, and schlep the kids to the parties, why shouldn’t we be the ones to go home with the loot? mp

Happy celebrating!

Jessica Graham is a freelance writer who has been published on Upworthy, Mothers Always Write and Parent.co. You can find her at In Pursuit of Loud, where she writes about the art of every day living. This article originally appeared on Parent.co.

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Calling All Campers

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Moving beyond the familiar four walls of houses and hotels, the camping experience offers a whole new environment for kids to escape from the day-to-day. Packing for alternative methods of cooking, prepping new sleeping arrangements, and planning outdoor adventures add unique advance excitement for children on a camping mission. For kids and families who are increasingly immersed in high-tech living, there’s never been a better time to answer the call of camping. Both the ultimate getaway and the best of back-to-nature family outings, the following items making camping a cool new adventure for kids.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Wise Owl Hammock

Regalo Kids Cot (Regalo)

(Wise Owl)

Sometimes a little elevation makes all the difference between a kid’s restless sleep on the ground and restful campsite slumber. The Regalo cot recreates a bit of the familiar bed for a child while retaining the sense of a camping adventure. Crafted with strong canvas and reinforced stitching, the cot is 48” long and supports up to 75 pounds. With a cot cover that’s washable and liner that wipes down easily, this bed is a snap to restore to camp readiness after every use. Folding easily into its travel case and weighing in at just four pounds, the Regalo cot answers the camping call of ‘conserve space and pack light’. Sure to enjoy extra use for sleepovers and beach trips the Regalo cot is a sound investment in recreational rest.

Kelsyus Canopy Chair

Wonder Lake Dome Tent

For every parent who struggles to keep sunscreen on their child, the Kelsyus Canopy Chair offers little kids an extra measure of passive protection from the sun. Modeled after adult-sized quad-style camp chairs, the Kelsyus retains all the same look and functionality while scaled down to accommodate a small child. Portability is a snap as the canopy transforms into the carry bag with backpack straps. The whole assembly weighs only 5 pounds so the chair is easily toted hands-free by kids to their camping, beach, or sporting destination.

Providing struggle-free shade, the Kelsyus Canopy Chair is the perfect rest and retreat for small children enjoying outdoor adventures.

Letting children stake their campground claim with their own dedicated lodging fosters their sense of independence on an outdoor adventure. With a 7’ by 4’ footprint, the Wonder Lake tent offers enough sleeping space for two little ones or a single pre-teen needing their own elbow room. Inverted seams, welded floor and included rainfly can repel wet weather while the domed shape redirects wind issues. Easily constructed with continuous pole sleeves and a simple pin-and-ring system, the whole kit packs easily into its carry bag. Compact, cool and camp-ready, the Wonder Lake Dome Tent lets kids carve out a comfortable space of their own in the wide open world.

A soft and silky alternative to ‘sleeping rough’, the Wise Owl hammock presents a simple way to swing into comfort. Made with parachute nylon, the slinky lightweight fabric gives the hammock surprising strength and durability for the rugged outdoors. Ease of assembly is important when considering the limited patience of excited youth and this hammock meets that need. Complete with the rope and carabiners for hanging, campers are just a few knots away from instant outdoor relaxing. Saving space during travel, the hammock bundles easily into its storage bag which is no bigger than a grapefruit. Kick off your camping adventure as you scout out the perfect space between two trees to hang your Wise Owl hammock and hang out in style.

(Kelsyus)

(Coleman)

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 2017

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GOL Awarded Major Grant to Reduce Child Abuse And Neglect

Gift of Life Foundation (GOL) has been awarded a major grant from the Children’s Trust Fund of Alabama to help reduce child abuse and neglect in Montgomery County.

Gift of Life was awarded a $95,000 grant for its Nurse Family Partnership Program (NFP) — a free, voluntary program that pairs expectant, first-time moms with a registered nurse. GOL nurse home visitors help program participants assess their attitudes, knowledge, skills and current level of support, then develop interventions that empower participants to set goals, make behavioral changes, address challenges and increase self-sufficiency. This helps reduce the stress factors that contribute to child abuse and neglect.

“Research tells us that too many babies in Montgomery County are born too early, into poverty, or are impacted by violence,” said Gift of Life Executive Director Cheryl Davis. “These are contributing factors to the high rate of infant mortality, child abuse and neglect that we are seeing in our community.”

In 2015, 7.3 per 1,000 Montgomery County children had indication for child abuse and neglect, according to data published in the 2016 Alabama Kids Count book. Davis said those numbers emphasize the critical need for funding for home visiting programs like those offered by Gift of Life, which support children and families in the environments where they live.

“The grant will fund two NFP nurse home visitors who will work with a client in her home for two and a half years,” said Davis. “They will provide the education, support and interventions needed to become an effective parent and create a nurturing environment for their child that is healthy and free of abuse.”

Since 1988, Gift of Life has worked to lower Montgomery County’s infant mortality rate through coordinated, evidence-based programs that give women and children at greater risk for infant mortality support, parenting education and encouragement at no cost through its Nurse-Family Partnership, Parents as Teachers, and Mobile Family Coaching, and Fathers in Action programs. For more information, visit www.golfound.org.

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My youngest two children, a girl and a boy, have birthdays that are three weeks apart. For their early years, when parties included primarily neighborhood friends, I combined their parties. I knew I had to come up with a theme that satisfied both genders in a range of ages. Here are a few party themes that work well for boys or girls.

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Princess and Knights

Every little girl wants a princess party and every little boy needs to release some energy. Encourage your guests to dress up or provide costumes to wear when they arrive.

Games:

1. Cross the Moat – Start with a large board or a few 2 x 4’s and keep getting smaller as the game goes on. You can have your moat over a small swimming pool or simply sitting on the ground.

2. Cup Stacking Castle – Work as a team or as individuals to make the tallest and sturdiest castle. You can limit the amount of cups each team gets or set up guidelines like it must have 5 cups on the base.

3. Find Cinderella’s Shoe – Ask all the girls to take off their shoes and drop one in a bin. The girls will sit on chairs and the boys will have to grab one shoe and see who it belongs to. This is a good way to partner them up for the Cup Stacking Castle.

Craft:

Depending on their preference, the kids can decorate their own armor, mask or tiara as found on Oriental Trading. They also have some great castle crafts.

Pirates and Mermaids Similar to the Princess and Knight party, Pirates and Mermaids has something for everyone.

Games:

1. Sink the ship – Cut a pool noodle into slices to form circular boats and add a toothpick sail. Order bouncing balls in bulk to serve as your cannon balls. The guests serve as pirates and try to sink the ships with cannon balls.

2. Mermaid Race – Players will wear one leg of a pair of panty hose to cover both feet and legs. They will race on their bellies or backs as mermaids on land to see who gets there first.

3. Treasure Map – Find the treasure by following a map with clues. Set up in the party space or get the neighbors involved in a scavenger hunt.

Craft:

Use an empty Gatorade bottle to create an I-Spy bottle. Alternate filling the bottle with small toys and either colored sand or rice.

Neon Party

This is a fun indoor party with black light or outside after sunset.

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Games:

1. Neon Glow Tag – Have the kids wear play clothes that can get paint on them.

Supply everyone with a clean white t-shirt.

Break the group into teams and arm them with a paintbrush and neon glow paint. Set up boundaries and encourage the guests to splatter as much paint as they can on the other players. For safety reasons, supply the kids with neon sunglasses.

2. Color shut down – This is like old maid with glow sticks. Purchase several glow sticks and paint the bottom of one of them black. The kids will hold the glow sticks in their hands and try to make color matches by picking sticks from other players without getting the “old maid” painted bottom.

3. Glow in the Dark balloon volleyball – Cut the end off a glow stick and pour the contents in a latex air filled balloon. Tie off and have the kids try to keep the balloon from hitting the ground.

Craft:

Make glow in the dark play dough or bubbles. Both are made simply by adding neon non-toxic paint to your favorite DIY bubbles or play dough recipe.

Little Baker

Kids love to help in the kitchen, but these cooking projects can be made outside on the patio or inside at the kitchen table.

Activities:

1. Dirt pudding cups - Everyone loves getting dirty. Use crushed Oreos (have the kids make them with rolling pins in Ziplock bags) and layer in cups with premade chocolate pudding. Don’t forget to add the gummy worms!

2. Too pretty to eat – The guests can decorate white bread with paint brushes and food coloring. When they are done, toast in toaster or in oven and return them to the kids to spread with jellies, butter or peanut butter.

3. Play with your food – Guests can design mosaics with dried colored beans, colorful fruit pizzas or make cars or boats out of bell peppers. The fun is only limited to their imaginations.

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Craft: Keep up the cooking theme by creating food in a jar recipes that the kids can take home. Go through the steps together to fill the jar with the right ingredients, in the right order. Preprint the cooking instructions on paper for the kids to attach to their jar and take home. mp Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She loves to plan parties for all ages and celebrations. Follow her on Etsy at PamsPartyPrintables.

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Mending Fences with Friends

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to become friends. And while fun and fellowship can typify this early camaraderie, kids are also navigating the emotions and instincts that can cause fights between pals. The following titles gently explore friendly conflict while sharing solutions that can guide early relationships back toward their happy norm.

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Are We Still Friends?

by Ruth Horowitz, Illustrated by Bianca Gomez (Scholastic) The relationship between Beatrice and Abel extends beyond just friendship. They share a fence between their yards with Abel growing apples trees on one side, and Beatrice raising bees on the other. They cross the wall and work together to harvest honey and pick apples, and even make apple butter in the winter. But when a simple misunderstanding blows up their friendship, it will take some work to bring down the wall that has been built between them. Highlighting the symbiosis that strengthens relationships, this title is an ideal start for conversations with kids about the shared interests and common grounds that make their friendships special.

Tiger and Badger

by Emily Jenkins, Illustrated by Marie-Louise Gay (Farrar Straus Giroux) Even in the most solid of friendships, territorial disputes can lead to conflicts that take some extra effort to resolve. Badger and Tiger are enjoying a monumental play day, until the lines begin to blur over who gets the chair and the orange slices. But when a fight over the last ice pop results in a fight that launches their favorite toy into a tree, the friends recognize that they are stronger together as they mount a rescue. Familiar territory for kids experiencing fall outs with their pals from time-to-time, Tiger and Badger gently navigates the path from conflict to resolution with bright illustration and humor.

The Crayon

by Simon Rickerty (Aladdin / Simon & Schuster) Demonstrating their best scribbles, Red and Blue like to show off what they can do with their crayons. But when antics for attention between Red and Blue cross the line, a colorful competition ensues that leaves one crayon out in the cold. And just like how a fight takes two, it takes more than one to put a friendship back together again. Relationships aren’t simply black and white (or red and blue) and the addition of more color may brighten up the future for these two friends. With simple text and bold primary colored illustration, The Crayon explores how friendships can migrate outside of the lines, drawing bigger landscapes for relationships to explore.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Big Green Bus

The Big Green Bus brings the party to you! The Big Green Bus is a school bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility.

Many elements of gymnastics are combined into one fun filled hour on board the Big Green Bus! Our party includes a zip-line, tumbling mats, monkey bar, rock wall, slides, tunnels, beam, bar, vault, rings, parachute games, and more! We will introduce your child to the wild and crazy world of gymnastics. The birthday child will receive a Big Green Bus shirt!

Goody bags are included in the prices.

Please call Amber Holley at (334) 324.4628 to schedule your party.

Big Red Fire Truck

Cakes/Finger Foods Bruster’s Ice Cream & Yogurt

6835 Vaughn Road and 9182 Boyd Copper Parkway, 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.

272.7369 or 239.7004

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.

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.

356.5292 or 832.8288 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.

244.9490 or 272.1818

GiGi’s Cupcakes

7918 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Nothing makes a special day unforgettable like a custom cupcake creation from Gigi’s. Special selection offered every day of the week. You may order Montgomery Parents I July 2017

online at our website and pick up at the store or view our daily menu online.

356.3737 http://www.gigiscupcakesusa.com/ montgomeryalabama

Great American Cookie Co. at Eastchase

7048 Eastchase Pkwy, Montgomery Choose from 16” round for $32.99, 16” square for $36.99 and large Rectangular for $39.99.

356.8111

JoZettie’s Cupcakes

1404 S Decatur St & 2229 E 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.

239.9289

Liger’s Bakery

3040 McGehee Rd., Montgomery Any flavor birthday cake, round or sheet, decorated with flowers, fruit, etc. We also have cookies, cupcakes and sandwiches available.

288.6550 www.ligersgood.com

Original Great American Cookie Co.

Eastdale Mall, Montgomery Up to 13 different varieties of cookies: 12” round $24.99, 16” round $29.99, 16” square $33.99 and sheet cookie $38.99..

271.1900

Entertainment Dynamite Magic & Balloons

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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.

270.1234 www.dynamitemagicandballoons.com

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A member of the Big Green Bus Family. Our one hour party package includes: Children (ages 2 and up) enjoy the excitement of climbing on board and exploring a real working fire truck, inside and out, turn on sirens and flashing lights, Try on realistic fire fighter gear including pants, jacket suspenders, hats and fire extinguishers, Firefighter themed games, Fire safety lesson, Birthday child and parent get to ride around the neighborhood in the fire truck and turn on the lights and sirens, Fire extinguisher water guns for summer parties, Birthday child gets a Big Red Fire Truck shirt, and Fire truck themed goodies for up to 15 guests.

Please call Jeff for information at (334) 868.9144

Bricks 4 Kids

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

(334) 721.4111, Stephanie Shuford www.bricks4kidz.com/397

DJ at Large

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. Provides age appropriate music and will censor music to your discretion.

Please call for pricing. “We put you first.”

260.9732 DJ@AtLarge.com www.DJatLarge.com

Fontaine Entertainment

“We are serious about your fun.” Offer DJ sound, light shows, karaoke, balloon decorations and theme decorations for birthday parties, corporate events, civic events, weddings, etc. Three hr. minimum.

514.4457

Glitterbug the Clown!

Birthday parties, face painting, magic, balloon animals, temporary airbrush tattoos for the older kids!

Tiger grams and Tiger Bombs also available!

868.3876 kimpossible21@gmail.com www.glitterbugtheclown.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.

285.6686 www.kns-djservice.com

Kindermusik of Montgomery

Travel to party location. 30 minutes of music class for $50. Several themes to choose from. All instruments provided.

271.3264 Hallhome96@aol.com

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RockStar Parties and Events

DJ and Staged events. Stage and lights available.

Available for any type of event.

399.6962 www.rockstarevent.com

Equipment/Games Rentals The SpaceWalker, Allen Bowen

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1514 West Street, Montgomery We are a locally owned family business. 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 concession machines. Indoor facility available. We offer monthly specials. “You supply the people, we supply the fun.”

546.8116 www.thespacewalker.com

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.”

277.0463 www.arrowrents.net

Event Photographers

Bradley’s Events & Décor

Allison Hilyer Photography

969 Lagoon Business Loop, Montgomery Bradley’s Events & Décor provides unique and innovative décor for all occasions.

230.7555

Brendle Rentals

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.

279.7368 www.brendlerentals.com

Moonwalk Montgomery

Moonwalks, Giant slides, Interactive inflatable, Obstacle Courses, Rides, Rock-Climbing wall, and much, much more. Rentals for special events.

277.2351 www.moonwalkofmontgomery.com

Space Walk of Montgomery

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.

273.0204 www.herecomesfun.com/mtg

Allison Hilyer is an on location natural light photographer that specialized in telling your story by custom lifestyle portraiture. Please visit www. allisonhilyerphotography.com for recent work, faqs and packages.

315.5425 www.allisonhilyerphotography.com

Jennifer’s Photo Box

Natural light photographer. Specializes in family photo shoots, kids, camps, parties. Themes available.

(334) 954.8098

Mishka Cole Photography

Available for Weddings, Family & Children Photo Sessions, Prom, Senior/Graduation Photo sessions, Special Events & Birth Photography.

220.6690 www.mishkacole.com

Limousines Touch of Class Limousine

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.

284.2673 www.touchofclassal.com

Frazer Vacation Bible School For rising Pre-K4 through 6th Grades

Atlanta Highway Campus July 10-14 9am-12pm 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery

Pike Road Site July 17-20 6-8:15pm

Inside the Pike Road School

Register at frazer.church/vbs

Sunday Worship in Two Locations: 6000Atlanta Highway: 8, 9:30 and 11am Pike Road School: 9 and 10:30am 65

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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.”

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.

260.5568 www.brendlerentals.com

Capital City Copy Shop

Do Re Mi

2787 Bell Road, 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.

239.7846

P’zazz Art Studio

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 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. We provide time for each and to open gifts.

354.1975 www.prattville.pzazzart.com

2701 Poplar St, Montgomery Poplar St. Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pick up, delivery, fax services available.

230.9681 www.capitalcitycopyshop.com

Places to Party - Bowling

Party City

BAMA Lanes Inc

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.

409.0901

Sunday Dinner

5455 Atlanta Hwy. , Montgomery Plates, cups, chafing dishes, large quantity food items.

272.7000

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.

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!

279.6279

Places to Party Artistic Abrakadoodle

Creative art fun for your child for his or her birthday party. Painting parties and face painting available.

Visit the website for more information.

265.5758 www.abrakadoodle.com Montgomery Parents I July 2017

United Gymstars & Cheer ad on page 51

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.

284.2244 www.unitedgymstars.com

Ballerina Birthday Parties at CJ’s Dance Factory

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.

467.8603

Big Green Bus

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. A plus a whole pizza per lane. Please call for pricing.

Weekday, Weekend or Evening (subject to lane availability) 272.5423

BAMA Lanes, Prattville

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.

358.8600

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. Please call for more info.

819.7171 www.bowlbrunswick.com

Places to Party - Cheer/ Gymnastics/Dance Tonya Speed Dance Connection

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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.

277.1098 www.tonyaspeeddanceconnection.com

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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 www.biggymbus.com

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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.

409.0522 www.montgomeryballet.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.

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

www.montgomeryparents.com

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fun, including: each guest will receive a 1 month FREE pass to Stranger Danger, Free Stranger Danger Demonstration at every Birthday party. Ask Mom First, and the Bully Buster program. Birthday child and guests receive a FREE uniform. Kung Fu Panda Balance Beam, Fun and exciting coordination skills & drills, Board Breaking Contest, Samurai Frisbee, Ninja Ball Bounce, Power Ranger relays, SWAT (Student Winning Attitude Team) Team Exercises, STORM (Student Team of Role Models) Team Demonstration and Teen Team Demonstration Squad.

Stranger Danger Child ID Packages provided so mom does not have to supply gift bags. Mother of Birthday child, Birthday child and guests receive gifts. Master Coker will do all the work so moms can just show up and have fun. If Birthday child signs up for classes that day then the party is FREE. If any guest signs up for classes they get a free party. Parties for 2-4 year olds now offered. Unlimited guests.

277.4911

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.

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.

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.

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 244.1465 www.tigerrockmontgomery.com

Places to Party Miscellaneous Adventure Sports Aquatic Center

ad on page 57

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.

269.3483 www.adventuresports2.com

Prattville East YMCA ad on page 40

972 McQueen Smith Rd., Prattville Party room for members and non-members. Pool rental for members. Party room has a $20 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.

358.9622

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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!

277.5678 www.pumpitupparty.com

Rockin Jump ad on page 61

5544 Atlanta Hwy. , Montgomery The Ultimate trampoline park. Ultimate Party Package includes: 2 hours of party time, 90 minutes of jump time, 2 pizzas, 2 pitchers of soda, Private party room, dedicated party host, set up and clean up, editable invitations, private games and lanes and a special party “Shout out”.

239.2587 www.rockinjump.com

Sylvan Learning Center ad on page 36

2640 Zelda Road, 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.

262.0043 cd@montgomerysylvan.com www.sylvanlearning.com/montgomery

Splattered Woods Paintball ad on page 82

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.

300.2417 www.splatteredwoodspaintball.com

Antique Train Rides

Located in Calera, 60 miles north of Montgomery, Calera 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 (Thomas the Train…etc.)

(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.

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 (2:30-4:30 p.m.) on Saturday. Please call for more information and availability. Inflatables party room at Goodtimes with eating area. Sat. & Sundays only.

271.4343 Montgomery Parents I July 2017

Chuck E Cheese

1116 Eastdale Mall, Montgomery Three party packages offered. Star Package: Two hours of reserved table space, $10 in tokens per child , personal party host/hostess, Two slices of one topping pizza per child, soft drinks with free refills per child, Ticket Blaster experience for the Birthday Star with the Magic Ticket worth 1,000 tickets, star recognition in our birthday show, Superhero Mask or Princess tiara for the birthday child, superhero cape or princess cape for the birthday star, superhero or princess tabletop photo cutout, tablecloth and plateware and email invitations. Superstar package: includes everything in the Star package plus 1,000 Ticket voucher for the birthday star, collectible cup per child, additional $5.00 tokens per child and special gift for the birthday child. Mega super star package: includes everything in the star & super star package plus, Chuck E. Cheese goody bag per child, pull string piñata with 40 tokens and 400 tickets, chocolate or vanilla ice cream cup per child, and $20 in tokens per child.

281.929 www.chuckecheese.com

special science demonstration while you celebrate, they can also provide that. Your group will party in one of the colorful party rooms, then take to the museum floor for a full day of hands-on science fun and discovery. Of course, you can also see a movie while there.

(205) 714.8369 www.mcwane.org

Smiles Galore

Plans parties for children. Many themes to choose from. Dress up, crafts, canvas painting, pirates,

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Places to Party Outdoors

Eastdale Mall (outside of Belks), 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. 270.2736

FC Montgomery Soccer

Shade Tree Riding Academy ad on page 51

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd, 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 hours. Add-ons are available for additional fees.

207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com www.fcmontgomery.com

566 Thornfield Dr., Millbrook Gentle, experienced horses, easy trail and knowledgeable staff to assist beginners. Call to reserve your party.

290.3727 or 546-3964

Go Karting Montgomery

YMCA Camp Chandler

9033 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery Come just for fun or book a party!

271.2020 www.gokartingmontgomery.com

McWane Center

Birmingham They do it all – cake, punch, ice cream, paper products and, if you like, goodie bags. If you want a

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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.

269.2895 www.smilesgaloreinc.com

3407 Pelzer Ave. , Montgomery Parties for members. Indoor and outdoor pools.

Outdoor pool includes slide and splash pool. YMCA provides lifeguards for party.

272.339

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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. Reservations required.

240.4900 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

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Places to Party - Parks

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.

361.3640

Millbrook Memorial Ctr & Village Green Park

Wetumpka Parks

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.

229.0035

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. Handicap accessible facility.

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 caterer’s kitchen. This books fast so call early.

241.2300 www.montgomeryal.gov click on departments and then parks and recreations

Prattville Parks

Prattville City park shelters are $25 for 4 hrs. & $50 for 8 hrs.

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 10 a.m. until 12 a.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.

567.5147

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 271.0104

Cici’s Pizza

981 Ann St. , Montgomery Ages 10 and under, $4.72 per person; adults $8.56 including your drink of choice. You bring cake and Cici’s does the rest.

386.3086

McDonald’s

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

Nancy’s Italian Ice

7976 Vaughn Rd. (Sturbridge Shopping Center) , Montgomery Ice and cupcakes available for purchase.

356.1403

Pizza Hut

Offered at all Montgomery locations as well as Prattville, Wetumpka and Clanton. Costs vary. Call for details.

265.6000

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.

277.2088

Looney’s Skating Rink

3541 McGehee Rd. , Montgomery Wide variety of party packages for all different ages. Please call for details and pricing. All parties

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require a non-refundable deposit at booking. You may bring cake, big cookie & ice cream only. Our friendly staff will setup, serve and cleanup your party. Any of the private party packages can be customized to meet your needs. All private party packages include 1-1/2 hour rink rental, invitations, admission, plates, napkins, sporks, cups, drinks during cake serving time, popcorn, and Stuff Shop party favor bags...all you do is bring a cake or big cookie. Pizza Party Packages are also available.

281.1032 www.looneysskate.com

Places to Party - Tea / Dress Up

party themes available for boys and girls. Canvas parties are now available.

819.4450 www.paintandclaystudio.com

Smiles Galore

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.

269.2895 www.smilesgaloreinc.com

Printed Invitations

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.

277.1839

Paint and Clay

66 Dalraida Rd. , 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

Capital City Copy Shop

2701 Poplar St. , Montgomery Invitations printed. Printing, copying, pick up, delivery, fax services available.

230.9681 www.capitalcitycopyshop.com

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FedEx Office

2226 E Blvd. Ste. 7 in Promenade N, Montgomery Full color banners and our custom design and print 277.1477 www.fedex.com

Kwik KopyShop

4148 Carmichael Rd. , 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.

244.0444

The Paper Lady

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

Unique Gifts Barb’s on Mulberry ad on page 43

Creative Printing

2501 East Fifth Street, Montgomery Everything is custom made for that extra special birthday.

281.1315 http://www.creativeprinting.us.com

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.

269.BARB (2272) www.barbsonmulberry.com

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

TH E LEARNING TREE C H I L D D E V E L O P M E N T C E N T E R S , I N C .

Your children deserve the best, why not give it to them.

We pride ourselves at The Learning Tree in having the best child care program for ages 6 wks. to 12 yrs. We are D.H.R. Licensed and provide transportation to and from public school.

Full Day Care and Half day (morning or afternoon).

ENROLL NOW, CALL TODAY!

5 Convenient Locations:

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

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

SPECIAL OFFER

FREE REGISTRATION With this coupon and new enrollment only.

Up to $85 Value!

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

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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.

270.1456

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.

271.5358

Capitol City Comics 7939 Vaughn Rd. (Festival Plaza), Montgomery Large selection of comics, gaming cards, and statues. Military and college student discounts.

215.3335

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.

649.2022

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.

676.1807

Jan Beale’s You Name It

The Montgomery Zoo Gift Shop

5350 A Atlanta Hwy, 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.

272.9878

The Turtle Shell

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.

240.4337

Old Alabama Town Gift Shop 301 Columbus St. , Montgomery Regional and old-fashioned gift items.

240.4500

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

240.4900 160 W. Main St., Prattville Educational items including reading games, room decorations, math workbooks, gifts for birthdays, science kits, puzzles and music.

358.0902

The Velvet Pumpkin

8185 Vaughn Rd., Pepper Tree Annex. , Montgomery Beautiful selection of unique Clothing, Vera Bradley, frames and bath items.

273.9293

Tucker Pecan Company

Periwinkles 8189 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Make your gift decisions from a large selection of popular items in our store.

277.3570

The Goat Hill Museum Store 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).

353.4969

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350 N McDonough St., Montgomery Come by and visit us for a unique selection of gifts, tumblers, jewelry and more.

262.4470 www.tuckerpecan.com

Yard Signs Flamingo-A-Friend

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.

279.3737 http://www.flamingoafriendmontgomery.com mp

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents

FamilyCalendar

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Sunday, July 2

This Month Saturday, July 1

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

Arti Gras at Lake Martin -- Also July 2 The sixth 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 to participate as a vendor, e-mail tmitchell@russelllands.com or call (256) 212-1443 for more information.

First Sundays at One -- Also August 6 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/.

Patriotic Concert in Prattville 6:30 p.m. Pratt Park Amphitheatre. The concert will feature the Prattville Pops and the Community Chorus performing all patriotic music. Get your blankets or lawn chairs and bring your family and friends out for this FREE concert. There will be food vendors available, but picnic baskets and coolers are welcome. No alcoholic beverages or glass containers are allowed. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.

Tickets are $10 with children 6 and under free. For more info, visit www.theamponlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 397-1019.

Montgomery Independence Day Celebration Begins at 6 p.m.; fireworks at 9 p.m. Blount Cultural Park. Live performances by The Montgomery Recreators and The Sweet Younguns. Food and beverage vendors will be on site. Blankets, chairs and picnics welcome! For more info, visit www.funinmontgomery.com/.

Wednesday, July 5

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch and Learn Series Open to the Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m.

Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative

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

Michael’s Kids Club -- Also July 8, 15, 22 & 29 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies included. Ages 3 and up. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises.

July 1 is Sprout Kody Kapow Slime Jar; July 8 is Winter Wonderland Castle; July 15 is Mermaids and Unicorns; July 22 is Safari Animal Canvas; and July 29 is Summer Planters. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/.

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

Civil Rights Walking Tours -- Every Saturday and Sunday 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. start times. Tours start from The Village Gallery. Come explore Montgomery’s history walking from different historical sties and engage in profound moments from slavery, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. This tour highlights pioneers and unsung heroes who contributed to a new era.

Cost: Adults - $10; 12 & under - $5; 4 & under FREE. Book your tour by calling (334) 595-9243.

Brunswick Zone Summer Games Bowling Pass Through September 4 1661 Eastern Blvd., Montgomery. Bowl three games every day at Brunswick Zone Montgomery Lanes, all season long, for $29.95. For use by guests ages 15 and under. Ages 16 and up are $39.95. Shoes included! Visit https://bowlsummergames.com/ or call (334) 819-7171 for more info.

Prattville/Autauga Farmers Market -- Saturdays through September 16 7 a.m.-noon. At the grove on Doster Road across from Gillespie Senior Center and Pratt Park. Featuring fruits and vegetables from local growers, fresh baked goods, honey, handmade soaps, music and a chef creating something tasty from products from the local growers.

For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www. prattvilleal.gov/.

Farmers Market at the Shoppes at EastChase Saturdays through October 7 a.m.-noon. Several popular farms make their return with locally grown products, including Aplin Farms, Oakview Farms, Penton Farms and Leatherwood Nursery. For more info, call (334) 279-6046 or visit www.theshoppesateastchase.com/farmersMarket/.

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

Monday, July 3

Good Mornings -- Mondays through Thursdays through July 27 9 a.m.-noon. Frazer UMC Atlanta Highway Campus.

Good Mornings is a summer program for rising 1st-6th grade boys and girls in the J.E.M. Activity Center. 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. For more info, call 272-8622.

Tuesday, July 4

Pike Road’s Annual Parade and Summerfest Celebration Registration for the annual 4th of July Parade hosted by the Pike Road Community Club begins at 8:30 a.m. at Founders Station (4902 Pike Road), with the parade beginning at 9:30 a.m. Participation is open to the public and the theme for entries is “United We Stand.” There is no entry fee. For more info, call (334) 221-7948. Gates to Summerfest open at 4:30 p.m. at The Waters, and the fun starts at 5 p.m. There will be live music by The Shouting Stones, Chick-Fil-A for purchase, and fireworks after dark. H2O Cafe and Market will be open, and Nancy’s Italian Ice will be available.

Wetumpka’s 4th of July Celebration 6-9 p.m. Gold Star Park. Performance by Wishbone.

Fireworks at 9 p.m. For more info, visit www. cityofwetumpka.com or call (334) 567-5147.

Independence Day Celebration at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game 6:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. What’s more American than celebrating our country’s freedom while soaking in our country’s favorite pastime? Let us take care of the grilling and beverages! Don’t forget about our patriotic MAX Fireworks Show after the game! For tickets or more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Fourth of July Blast: Concert and Fireworks Lake Martin. Gates to the AMP will open at 5 p.m., with a concert beginning at 6:30 featuring The Bank Walkers and The Sweet Tea Trio. There will also be a Twist and Hula Hoop Contest and fireworks starting at 9 p.m.

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Extension Service are provided each session at no cost.

Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided.

Montgomery Biscuits Military Wednesday -- Also July 19 & August 2 7:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Join us as we salute all current and former military personnel every Wednesday!

All military personnel who bring their Military ID will receive special food and drink specials.

Looking for some unique food? Each Wednesday, our fantastic food staff creates a great menu of unique food you wouldn’t usually find at the ballpark! For tickets or more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Summer Children’s Matinees at the Capri Wednesdays-Fridays through July 28 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. For nine straight weeks, the Capri will show kid-friendly favorites for $2. Popcorn and soda are available for .50 each. For more info, visit www. capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Mary Poppins -- Through July 30 Young Jane and Michael Banks have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep.

Using a combination of magic and common sense, she teaches the entire Banks family how to value each other again. Showcases some of the most memorable songs ever sung on the silver screen and stage including “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” “Jolly Holiday,” “A Spoonful of Sugar” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!” Recommended ages four and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.

Thursday, July 6

Capri Theatre Presents Wayne’s World 7:30 p.m. Wayne and Garth are looking for their next big break and might have just found it. The two host a public-access TV show in Wayne’s mom’s basement, and it’s popular enough that Wayne can finally buy the guitar he’s been wanting! For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Alabama In The Movies Film Festival At The Archives -- Thursdays through July 27 6 p.m. Featuring movies filmed or set in Alabama. Ad-

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FamilyCalendar mission is FREE! July 6: Sweet Home Alabama (PG-13); July 13: Norma Rae (PG); July 20: Alabama Moon (PG); and July 27: My Cousin Vinny (R). Concessions provided

by That’s My Dog, Popcorn Pizzazz, and JoZetti’s Cupcakes will be available for purchase beginning at 5:30.

Beverages will be available for purchase, with all proceeds benefitting the Friends of the Alabama Archives.

For more info, visit www.archives.alabama.gov or call (334) 242-4364.

Kids’ Summer Movie Series at New Vision Theatres (Formerly Prattville Promenade 12) Thursdays through August 3 10 a.m. For ten straight weeks, kid-friendly favorite movies are the perfect way to beat the heat. Admission is $4 and includes a small popcorn and a small drink. For more info, visit Promenade 12 Prattville on Facebook.

Summer Drop-in Class at United Gymstars & Cheer -- Thursdays during July 11 a.m. Here are the classes offered during this hour: Kindergym, Junior Gym, Girls Progressive, Boys Progressive and Beginning & Intermediate Tumbling. $15 per class. Call (334) 284-2244 or visit www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com for more info.

Friday, July 7

Montgomery Biscuits Stranger Things Fright Night 7:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium is turning upside down!

Join us as we salute the hit show Stranger Things, Halloween, and pop culture horror tonight! The Biscuits will wear special Stranger Things-themed jerseys that will be up for auction to benefit the United Way! For

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

Friday on the Green -- Also July 14 & 28; Aug. 4 6:30 p.m. Russell Crossroads at Lake Martin. Great outdoor event during the spring and summer months.

Bring your family and friends – even your pup on a leash for a great time with lawn games and music. It’s free! So, pack your cooler and picnic basket, or stop by nearby Catherine’s Market. For more info, call (256) 4964232 or visit www.russellcrossroads.com/.

Summer Food Truck Takeover @ Hampstead Also August 4 4:30-8:30 p.m. A variety of rotating Montgomery food trucks will assemble in the Hampstead Town Center to dish out street food and fun. Local food trucks may include: NYC Gyro, Southern Smokeshack, On A Roll, El Campesino’s Taqueria, Fire Meats Wood, Frios Pops and more. Plenty of outdoor park seating and live music to keep the party going. In addition, The Tipping Point, City Grill, and Hampstead’s latest addition, TASTE, will be open and serving regular menu items as well as craft beer, wine and cocktails. This is a free event open to the public. Parking is available on Long Acre Street, Mercer Street, and in the two large Hampstead parking lots.

Find us on Facebook.

Friday Night Hoops -- Friday nights through November 9 p.m.-midnight. Bell Road YMCA. For students in 5th through 12th grades. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves).

Must be playing basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for non-members. For info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org.

Saturday, July 8

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.

Summer Saturday Genealogy Workshop at the Ala. Dept. of Archives and History 9 a.m.-noon. Genealogy 101: A Workshop for Beginners is step-by-step instruction followed by hands-on research in the ADAH’s EBSCO Research Room, with full access to a vast number of resources and state-of-the-art research tools. Participants will be given a solid foundation to craft an effective research plan and learn valuable skills to help navigate the oftentimes overwhelming world of genealogical research. Registration for the general public is $30. Friends of the Alabama Archives members can register at $20. Spaces are limited and advance registration is required. For more info and to register, visit www.archives.alabama.gov or contact Sarah at (334) 242-4364 or sarah.mcqueen@ archives.alabama.gov.

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FamilyCalendar Capri Theatre Presents Nanny McPhee 1 p.m. Free admission. Colin Firth and Emma Thompson star in this Mary Poppinsish children’s classic. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Montgomery Biscuits Christmas in July 6:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Santa Claus is coming to town! Join us tonight as we celebrate Christmas five months early with all your favorite Christmas traditions!

Stay after the game for a special Christmas-themed MAX Fireworks Show! For tickets or more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Monday, July 10

Book Talk at the Alabama Dept. of Archives & History Noon. 624 Washington Ave. Subject is “Historic Alabama Courthouses: A Century of Their Images and Stories,” presented by Delos Hughes. Call 353-4726 or visit www. archives.alabama.gov for more info.

Movie Monday -- Also July 17, 24 & 31 A movie will be played on the big blow-up screen down in Montgomery’s Riverfront Park starting at about 7:30 p.m. Bring chairs or blankets for seating. Food vendors and a cash bar will be available for purchase. No outside alcohol allowed. Pets welcome. $5 tickets must be purchased online or at the gate. For more info, visit www.funinmontgomery.com/ or call (334) 625-2100.

LEO Golf Academy Jr. Golf Camp for Boys and Girls Ages 4-14 Gateway Golf Course, 3800 Davenport Dr., Montgomery.

Session 2 is offered July 10 and 17 from 5:30-7 p.m.; another session offered August 5, 12 & 19 from 10:30 a.m.-noon. For more info, visit www. leogolfacademy.com/ or call (334) 721-4LEO (4536).

Prattauga Art Guild Art Camp -- Through July 14 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Prattville Creative Arts Center and Gallery. This art camp for ages 7-12 will present students with fun and creative projects using several different media, such as painting, drawing, collage, clay and more. The camp will end with an exhibit on July 15 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. of the works created during the week. Cost for camp is $75 and includes supplies.

Students will bring lunches. For more info or to register, call (334) 595-0854 or visit artguild.prattvilleal.gov.

Tuesday, July 11

Creekwalk Concerts -- Also July 25 7 p.m.

These City of Prattville concerts will feature local and regional bands performing by the beautiful Autauga Creek behind City Hall and the Police Station. Free and open to the public. Some food vendors will be available, but concert goers can also bring picnic baskets. Bring your blankets and lawn chairs. For info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.

U.S. Kids Golf Local Tour Championsip Arrowhead Country Club, Montgomery. U.S. Kids Golf Local Tours provide boys and girls, ages 5 to 14, the opportunity to advance their golf experience in ageappropriate competition. At the Local Tour level, kids can gain their first exposure to competitive golf, earn Priority Status for Championship Events, meet new friends and learn valuable life lessons. Register for this event through July 6. For more info or to register, contact Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536, quincyleonard@ leogolfacademy.com or visit www.uskidsgolf.com.

Wednesday, July 12

Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Noon-1 p.m. Held at the Elmore County Extension

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(ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces. edu/counties/Elmore/.

Thursday, July 13

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents the Musical Hairspray -- Through July 29 In addition to its Thursday opening, this production, directed by Mary Katherine Moore, will run Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. July 29 will feature both 2 and 7:30 p.m. performances. Tickets are $12 in advance and $14 at the door and can be purchased online at cc.prattvilleal.gov, with Mastercard or Visa by phone at (334) 595-0854, or in person at the Special Events office Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Capri Theatre Presents Airplane 7:30 p.m. Trans American Flight 209 has a serious problem. The food is coming up, and the plane is going down. A satire of so many disaster movies we all pretend we don’t have memorized. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Family Fun Night at Eastdale Mall -- Thursdays through July 27 5-7 p.m. Every Thursday in June & July (excluding July 6). Filled with hands-on activities, story time, and performances by community attractions, and discounts by participating merchants. The best part? It’s all FREE! Make sure to check in at the Customer Service Centre to recieve your wrist band to participate in all of the activities. For more info, call (334) 277-7380 or visit Facebook.

Wetumpka Depot Presents Southern Fried Funeral -- Through July 29 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. matinee July 23 only. Written by Dietz Osborne and Nate Eppler, and directed by Kim Mason. Dewey Frye is dead and the rest of his family is left to pick up the pieces if they don’t kill each other first. Funerals bring out the worst, best and the funniest in people and the Fryes are no exception. Patrons who bring a canned good or food item for the Elmore County Food Pantry to the show will receive a free Depot popcorn from the concession stand. For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com.

Friday, July 14

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Bill Anderson and Gene Watson 7:30 p.m. Bill Anderson is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and one of the most popular, most enduring entertainers of our time. Watson began his music career in the 1960s and had national success throughout the late 1970s and early 1980s, as he recorded several Billboard Top 40 hits. Tickets begin at $27. Visit www. mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also July 28 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com.

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Saturday, July 15

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Tim Hawkins 7 p.m. Tim’s gut-busting comedy show entertains the entire family while doubling down on the funny, a daunting task in an age where the obscene has become routine. The perils of marriage, homeschooling, and growing up in the Midwest may not exemplify the rock star life, but they make for really good punchlines.

Tickets begin at $16. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

Montgomery Area Musicians Association Hosts Concert Featuring Local Bands at RSA Tower Doors open at 6 p.m.; music starts at 7. Five bands, five genres, on top of the RSA Tower. Limited seating and only $15 in advance; $20 at the door. Kids 12 and under are free with paid adult. Visit http://montgomerymusicians.org/.

Prattville Gigantic Flea Market 6 a.m.-noon. Doster Community Center. Clean up your closets and sheds and get rid of your unwanted, but good items. Guns, weapons, tobacco & alcohol CANNOT be sold. One booth per household. One booth per person. Limited space available. For info, call (334) 5950800. Set-up is July 14 from 3-7 p.m.

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/.

Sunday, July 16

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Ted Nugent 7:30 p.m. Ted Nugent has carved a permanent place in rock & roll history as the ultimate guitar-shredding showman, selling more than 40 million albums, performing over 6,500 high-octane live shows, and continuing to set attendance records at venues around the globe.

Tickets begin at $27. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

Tuesday, July 18

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

Wednesday, July 19

Capri Theatre Presents Stop Making Sense 7:30 p.m. A national Art House tribute to director Jonathan Demme presenting a concert film featuring the Talking Heads. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858.

Thursday, July 20

Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “The Draft in Alabama During World War I,” presented by Sebastian Lukasik. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.

Cloverdale Playhouse Theatre Presents Peter Pan -- Through July 30 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sunday matinees. Three siblings follow Peter Pan and the fairy Tinker Bell into Neverland, where children never grow old. Captain Hook and his pirates, Tiger Lily and her tribe, mermaids, and a dozen other adventures await the children in this timeless tale of eternal youth.

For audiences ages 4 and up. For more info, visit www. cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530.

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FamilyCalendar Millbrook Community Theatre Presents The Music Man -- Through July 30 7:30 p.m. except for July 23 and 30 @ 2 p.m. Written

by Meredith Wilson; directed by Angie Mitchell. Fasttalking traveling salesman Harold Hill cons the people of River City, Iowa, until he falls in love with Marian the Librarian who transforms him into a respectable citizen.

Tickets are $12 in advance, $14 at the door, and $8 for 12 and under. For tickets or more info, visit www. millbrooktheater.com or call (334) 782-7317.

Thursday, July 20

Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “Alabama Gold: A History of the South’s Last Mother Lode,” presented by Peggy Walls.

Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.

Friday, July 21

Autauga Education Foundation Hosts Stuff the Bus Campaign -- Also July 22 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at Prattville Chamber; 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at Prattville Wal-Mart. All donations will benefit 14 Autauga County Public Schools. Monetary donations are also welcome. For a list of needed supplies, please visit www. autaugaef.org or call (334) 312-7047.

Sun Festival Battle of the Bands Round out the annual week-long celebration with the 2017 Band Battle sponsored by Russell Lands on Lake Martin at Strand Park in Downtown Alexander City at 7 p.m. Friday’s Band Battle winner will open for Moon Taxi on Saturday, July 22. For more info, visit www. theamponlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 397-1019.

Saturday, July 22

Wetumpka’s River and Blues Music & Arts Festival 2-10 p.m. Downtown Wetumpka. Free family fun event including nine bands, kids’ activities and arts & crafts.

For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 567-5147.

Animal Enrichment Day at the Montgomery Zoo Zoo is open 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Animal enrichment activities take place 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Enrichment is an effort to tap into and stimulate our basic five senses: touch, sight, smell, taste and hearing. The result is to stimulate behaviors resembling those for that species in the wild. Theme is Christmas in July. Everyone is encouraged to wear Christmas colors: red and green.

Perhaps even wear Santa hats, jingle bells, and reindeer antlers. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit www. montgomeryzoo.com.

Montgomery Biscuits Star Wars Night 6:35 p.m. That’s no moon, that’s a baseball! Join us at Riverwalk Stadium as your favorite characters from a galaxy far far away wander the concourse! Dress up as your favorite character and find the night you’re looking for with a MASSIVE MAX Fireworks Show after the game. For tickets or more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Sunday, July 23

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Holds Auditions for Deathtrap -- Through July 24 6-8 p.m. July 23 and 7-9 p.m. July 24. Cultural Arts Building at 203 West 4th Street in Prattville. This exciting thriller keeps the audience on the edge of their seats with its non-stop suspense, reversals and twists. Parts for men and women ages 25-70. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit wobt.prattvilleal.gov.

Montgomery Biscuits Bark in the Park/Kids Run the Bases/Kids’ Day -- Also July 30 5:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. All dogs are welcome as long as they are leashed. One dog per adult. All dog owners must sign a waiver at the RF Gate entrance. Kids ages 14 and under are invited to run the bases after every Sunday game at Riverwalk Stadium presented by Coca-Cola! Kids can also play catch on the field before the game and create some arts and crafts. For tickets or more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Monday, July 24

U.S. Kids Golf Local Tour Championsip Lagoon Park Golf Course, Montgomery. U.S. Kids Golf Local Tours provide boys and girls, ages 5 to 14, the opportunity to advance their golf experience in ageappropriate competition. At the Local Tour level, kids can gain their first exposure to competitive golf, earn Priority Status for Championship Events, meet new friends and learn valuable life lessons. Register for this event through July 19. For more info or to register, contact Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536, quincyleonard@ leogolfacademy.com or visit www.uskidsgolf.com.

Thursday, July 27

Red Door Theatre Presents The Dreamland Bus Through July 30 7:30 p.m. July 27-29; 2:30 p.m. matinee July 30. Red

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FamilyCalendar Door Theatre, Union Springs. Written by Kenneth Graham and directed by Kathryn Wood, this delightful play about the Bradleys of Columbia, S.C., is a charming, funny, deeply touching, and life-affirming story about family and homecomings based upon the playwright’s family and his Southern upbringing. The title reflects the words of his father, a Southern doctor, when the children were being put to bed – “it’s time to get on the dreamland bus.” Call (334) 738-8687 or e-mail info@ reddoortheatre.org.

Newcomers Club of Montgomery Monthly Luncheon The Newcomers Club of Montgomery invites all women of the River Region to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Country Club. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Volunteer Coordinator Meg Hall enlightens us on the current and upcoming exhibits, events, programs for all ages, and the timeline of the building of the new and exciting Sculpture Garden at MMFA! Cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, July 24, to Suzanne Lowry at (334) 396-5368 or zanzuzan@charter.net. Visit www.newcomersmontgomery.com.

ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m.

This unique program, designed for artists and art lovers alike, has been celebrating the work of Montgomery area artists for more than 25 years. Sign up for a new season of opportunities to view outstanding artwork and receive feedback about your own work. ARTtalk meets on select Thursday evenings in the Museum Library.

Cost: $20 for Museum or Art Guild members; $35 for non-members. Register now and get an up-close look at artists, their work, and the creative process! E-mail edsecy@mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4365 for reservations or visit www.mmfa.org.

Sunday, July 30

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Stars on the Riverfront -- Also July 31 7:30 p.m. Gates open at 6 p.m. for picnicking. Two spectacular FREE performances at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. Bring the entire family and a picnic and join the Alabama Dance Theatre as the sun sets on one of Montgomery’s most beautiful venues. These eclectic performances are the culmination of ADT’s two-week Summer Dance Seminar and will feature more than 50 dancers. For more info, call (334) 241-2590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com/stars-on-the-riverfront. html.

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Tuesday, August 1

Twilight Tuesdays at Montgomery Zoo - Also August 8, 15, 22 and 29 Hours are 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays in August only.

Last admission is at 6:30, major animal exhibits begin closing at 7, and everyone must exit the park by 7:30 p.m. Come see all your favorite animals under the stars.

Enjoy a ride on the sky lift as the sun sets or hop on the train. Visit the giraffe encounter, petting zoo, parakeet cove or a casual dinner at the Overlook Cafe. Different special events take place each Tuesday between 3 and 7 p.m. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit montgomeryzoo.com.

Montgomery Biscuits Dollar Dog Night 7:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Enjoy $1 Hot Dogs every Tuesday at Riverwalk Stadium. For tickets or more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Wednesday, August 2

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Presents Night at the Museum 1-3 p.m. Kids and adults alike have enjoyed this film since its release. For the first time, we invite families to view Night at the Museum at the MMFA! If you haven’t seen this movie starring Ben Stiller, Robin Williams, and a cast of familiar characters who reside in the Museum of Natural History, you won’t want to miss this opportunity. Bring the whole family and enjoy a summer movie. The Museum will provide complimentary popcorn, and beverages will be available for purchase.

For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 2404333.

Friday, August 4

ECHO’s Open House 10 a.m.-noon. Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy., Deatsville. This is a FREE event open to families from ANY county in the area that are homeschooling or interested in homeschooling. Light refreshments will be served. Children are welcome; we will have activity tables for their enjoyment. Come find out about our group and our upcoming activities.

Local vendors that offer homeschooling goods/services/ opportunities will be on site to distribute information & answer questions. E-mail co-leaders Catherine Ray & Tanya Murphy at elmore.co.homeschool.org@gmail.com or visit www.onlineecho.com. You may also find us on Facebook.

MPAC Presents Hollywood’s Greatest Game Shows Featuring Bob Eubanks 7:30 p.m. Hosted by nine-time Emmy Award Winner and Game Show icon Bob Eubanks, everyone in your audience has an equal chance to become a contestant.

Whether chosen by ticket drum or randomly from the audience, each will experience what it’s like to be on a real TV game show. Someone will also have a chance to win a $1 million dollar grand prize. Tickets begin at $27.

Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

Book Talk at the Alabama Dept. of Archives & History Noon. 624 Washington Ave. Subject is “Mockingbird Songs: My Friendship with Harper Lee,” presented

by Wayne Flynt. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives. alabama.gov for more info.

Wetumpka Depot Presents Everything but the Kitchen Sink Cabaret -- Also August 6 7:30 p.m. August 4; 2 p.m. matinee August 6. Some of the River Region’s best singers and storytellers singing songs about love, home and food. For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or visit wetumpkadepot.com.

U.S. Kids Golf Local Tour Championsip Wynlakes Country Club, Montgomery. U.S. Kids Golf Local Tours provide boys and girls, ages 5 to 14, the opportunity to advance their golf experience in ageappropriate competition. At the Local Tour level, kids can gain their first exposure to competitive golf, earn Priority Status for Championship Events, meet new friends and learn valuable life lessons. Register for this event through July 26. For more info or to register, contact Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536, quincyleonard@ leogolfacademy.com or visit www.uskidsgolf.com.

Saturday, August 5

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

Annual Youth Fishing Rodeo 7-11 a.m. Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook. 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 five 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... space fills up quickly! Admission is free; snacks and drinks will also be available. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/youth-fishing-rodeo/.

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Homeschool Day Sponsored by Covenant Academy 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Held at Cornerstone Christian Church, 301 Dalraida Road, Montgomery. Attention, homeschoolers or those interested in learning more about it! Activities for the whole family, including ”How to Homeschool” seminar, displays of home-school resources and supplies, displays of products and services offered by local family-owned small businesses, panel discussion with Q & A on home-schooling in unusual circumstances by those who have been there, fellowship over brown bag lunch with tea and lemonade provided, children’s activities, and fun for the whole family. For details or to register, call (334) 356-5205 and leave a message; e-mail farauthor@aol.com; or visit www. covenantacademyalabama.com.

Ongoing

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

Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs meeting on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/ Drawing. Each club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon.

(Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building). Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information.

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

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

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

Brain Pump is a group exercise class, targeting children 4-12 years old. The class is the collaboration of a physical therapist and a kinesiology professor combining traditional therapy and exercise concepts with the latest cutting edge research on movement and the brain. This is all done in a fun, energetic setting, that seems much more like playing than exercising. Brain Pump is taught at Metro Fitness on Saturdays from 11-11:45 a.m. Contact Tiffany Higginbotham at Body Logic PT & Wellness (334-380-5920) for more info.

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

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

The Central Alabama Tennis Association (CATA) is a volunteer-based tennis organization formed to provide programs which promote and develop the growth of tennis throughout central Alabama. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 324-1406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com.

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

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

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

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

Fountain City BMX Track 802 County Rd 4, Prattville. Friday practice $3. Free 1-day trial, fun for any age. Race on most Sundays.

For more info, visit Fountain City BMX on Facebook or www.fountaincitybmx.com. You can also e-mail: info@ fountaincitybmx.com or call (334)300-4328.

Friday Night Hoops Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.-midnight.

Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must play basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e.

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

Friday Night Open Volleyball Students in 5th through 12th grades get together every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 6-9 p.m. Students cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves).

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

Garden Tours Local gardens include Southern Homes and Gardens, Blount Cultural Park’s Shakespearean Garden at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Grace Episcopal Church, Prattville’s historic gardens in Old Pratt Village and the Wilderness Park, and Wetumpka’s arboretum at Ft. Toulouse. For more info in Montgomery, call 1-800-240-9452 or visit www.VisitingMontgomery.com. In Prattville, call 361-0961 or visit www.prattville.com/visitor/history. In Wetumpka, call 567-3002 or visit www.wetumpka.al.us/ features. Other numbers are: Blount Cultural Park (2740062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www.oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org).

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

God of Order Discipleship: The Blueprint for Bringing Peace to the Home This 10-month discipleship ministry purposes to teach women God’s order for the home. Through bi-monthly small-group teachings and discussions, this discipleship training proves to set the heart of every woman on the home, making it a sanctuary where Father God can dwell. The teachings follow Titus 2:4-6 and include such topics as ordering the home as a restful and secure dwelling place, restoring the family altar, loving your husband, submitting to your husband, speaking blessings, loving your children, being a discreet and pure woman, practical home management, and making the home a place of hospitality. This ten-lesson discipleship teaching is available on DVD along with a written workbook. Contact His Vessel Ministries at info@hisvessel. org or (334) 356-4478 for more information about the group starting in January or the material to start your own God of Order Discipleship.

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

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

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

MOOseum, Alabama Cattlemen’s Association Children’s educational center featuring past, present and future in agriculture and the cattle industry. Free. Group tours should be pre-scheduled. Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Last scheduled tour of the day starts at 3:30 p.m. 201 Bainbridge St., Montgomery. For info, call 265-1867 or visit www. bamabeef.org.

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

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

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

Prattville-Millbrook Newcomers Club A non-affiliated social club geared to new people moving into the area AND to those looking to form new friendships or just learn more about the area and help new residents do the same. Meets every third Thursday (except special events, holidays) throughout the year at the Willis Bradford Branch of the YMCA on McQueen Smith Road in Prattville. For more info, contact Nancy Schrull at (334) 414-8185 or nschrull@knology.net.

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Prattville Movie Club (for Teens) Meeting twice a month on Fridays, current Prattville Movie Club members range from 14-18 years old and meet at the Carmike Promenade 12 on Cobbs Ford Road. There are no GPA requirements and no class requirements. We are friends who enjoy moviegoing and want to meet others who also enjoy watching movies. For more info, call (334) 224-7811 or e-mail brandonperdue12@gmail.com.

Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10. For more info, call 2418615 or visit www.troy.edu/rosaparks/.

Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next classes are July 19 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

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

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

Classes

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

Breastfeeding Class

This one-time class at Baptist Health provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors.

Partners are encouraged to participate. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. E-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

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

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

Childbirth Preparation (Four Sessions on Monday Nights) This four-session class is taught by Registered Labor and Delivery Nurses on the campus of Baptist South. This class for new mothers covers topics ranging from how your body changes during pregnancy to signs of labor to the benefits of breastfeeding and what to expect during your birth experience. This class is complimentary. To register, call (334) 286-3466.

Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info.

A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required.

Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more info or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu.

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

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

Call 213-6360 for more information.

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

Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears.

Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12.

The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/ LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org.

Infant Safety/CPR 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

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CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child.

Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person.

Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and is offered on select Saturdays of each month.

Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info.

Maternity Area Tour Baptist Health’s Maternity Area Tour is for parents not attending Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp. Tour is offered on select Saturdays of each month and is complimentary. Tour is for adults only. Space is limited.

Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@ baptistfirst.org for more info.

Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130.

Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by wellknown pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood.

Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 293-8497 or e-mail: liz.owen@jackson.org.

Sibling Preparation Class One-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org.

Slow Flow Yoga Classes are held at Old Alabama Town on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:30-12:15, and 12:30-1:15.

Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to Molton South Building. Enter through the Rose House, located on Columbus St. between N. Hull and Decatur.

Parking is available along Decatur and N. Hull. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days). Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@ icloud.com.

driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more info, or to volunteer, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345.

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

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

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

Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977.

Baptist Sleep Disorders Centers Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville. Both centers have the ability to diagnose up to 84 different sleep disorders. There are four board-certified physicians and a clinical psychologist on staff between the two centers.

For more info, call (334) 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and (334) 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital.

Hospice of Montgomery Volunteer Opportunities 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. There is a current need for Patient Care and Family Support volunteers, Clerical volunteers, and Outreach/Fundraising volunteers. For more info, call (334) 279-6677 or e-mail kjones@hospiceofmontgomery.org.

Jackson Hospital Animal Therapy Program Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program.

Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894.

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

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

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

Support Groups

Services

American Cancer Society Seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe

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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., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC.

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SupportGroups Grief Support

For more info, call Sonia Martin at 409-9477 or at smartin@childrensaid. org.

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.

Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Kathy King at (205) 943-5331 or e-mail kking@childrensaid.org.

Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups.com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

Cancer Support

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

Look Good…Feel Better is an American Cancer Society program in which trained volunteer cosmetologists help female cancer patients deal with the side effects of treatment. Patients are taught beauty techniques to enhance their appearance and self image during or after treatments, including ways to disguise hair loss and skin changes. Call 1-800-ACS-2345 for more info.

OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis.

Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org.

Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345.

Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000.

General Cancer Support Group held at Christ Church, 8800 Vaughn Road, Tuesday afternoons at 1 p.m. This is an open group. For more information, please call Christy Holding at 531-1390 or Debbie Diemayer at 467-4578.

Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114.

Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast

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.

cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.

Divorce Support

DivorceCare meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Join us for thirteen weeks of guidance and purpose as you move forward with life after divorce. For more info, call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org.

Divorce Care for Kids meets Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. at Frazer Memorial UMC. Children of divorce or separation find hope, help, and healing. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info.

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

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

Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer. morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www. secondsaturday.com.

Gambling Support

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

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

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

Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420

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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.

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

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

Honoring Angels Like Owen, Inc. (HALO) offers family-oriented, Christian-based grief support groups that meet monthly. These groups are for families who have lost a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2 years old. Our parents’ group is for mothers and fathers.

Our siblings’ group is for children ages 6-15. Both groups meet at the same time and place. HALO also offers free professional photography for families facing the loss of a child up to the age of 2 years old and needs-based financial assistance for burial. Visit www.honoringangelslikeowen.org or call (334) 328-1202.

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

Homeschool Support

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

Illness Support

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

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 2796677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance.

Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on

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SupportGroups a weekly basis. Meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. You will experience hope and strength for each day. “Celebrate Recovery” is led by Jeff McFarland. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.

Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12-step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @ 6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information.

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

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

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

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

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.

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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.

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.

Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured.

Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information.

“Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage.

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

Single Parents Support

God Will Make a Way, Frazer UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7:30 p.m. Learn to follow God’s principles to thrive relationally, emotionally, and spiritually in 12 key areas of life and use God’s wisdom to cope with your most difficult problems. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@ frazerumc.org for more info.

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

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

Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info.

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

TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc. org for more info.

Special Needs Support

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

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

Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info.

Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided.

Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information.

Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@ gmail.com for more info.

Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net.

Teens/Families Support

Alienated Grandparents Anonymous meets third Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m in room 3104 at Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. For more info, call 272-8622 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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Putting an End to Your Teen’s Selfishness Some parents feed their teen’s selfishness into adult years by continuing to rotate their life around them. I tell parents that at age 15 it is time for them to begin aggressively helping their teen get over a selfish mindset.

Instead of always wanting to be “served” by mom and dad, older teens need to do things for themselves and also learn to serve others. After all, they are potentially only a few short years away from having to live totally unselfishly as parents themselves.

Should this selfishness be allowed to grow during the teen years it will only accentuate into other problems after they leave home.

So how do you put an end to your teen’s selfishness?

First, you need to put on the brakes!

Stop doing everything for your teen. Quit jumping every time he says “frog.” His control over your life and the life of others in your family is to cease, beginning now. Review the negative habit patterns you established in your home in the early years, and let it be known in a gentle way that you’ll no longer be doing a lot of the things that you had been doing to help them as a younger child.

Break the news to them in this way: • I’ll no longer be doing your laundry.

• I’ll no longer get you out of bed in the morning.

• I’ll no longer accept childish whining from you.

• I’ll not be doing what should be your chores, like cleaning your room or bathroom.

I’ll no longer nag you about what you need to accomplish.

• I’ll no longer pay for gas or give you spending money unless you earn it.

Get my point? You have got to stop doing some things, so that your child can start learning to do some of these things for

themselves. You stop and get out of the way, so he or she can start.

If you don’t do this, your teen is not being required to grow up. And I see a great number of kids today that remain immature into early adulthood. That happens not because of forces of nature or culture, but because parents enable it.

So the first step is to just stop. Can you do that? And I mean both parents, not just one.

The second step then is to have a discussion with them about why you’re stopping. It doesn’t have to be a deep philosophical discussion about their need to learn responsibility.

I would leave it as a simple, “Because you now have the ability to do it for yourself and I don’t want to do it anymore!” Any comments beyond that will only stir up further fruitless discussion. Let your teen know that you’re not doing “it” (whatever “it” is) because you don’t want to do “it” any more. You’ll be amazed how it will put him in a position of not being so demanding of you, and will put you in a position of not having to do everything for them.

Sometimes it is best to let teenagers know that they will have to start these new responsibilities “this summer,” or, “when school starts,” or, “when you turn 15,” or, “the first of the year.” That way you prepare them for the change that is coming. Don’t drop it on them overnight. Maybe even work side by side with them for couple of weeks as you make the transition, but be clear when your assistance will stop and that you’ll not do it yourself during the transition period. They have to help.

Again, here’s what to tell them: • They’ll be doing their own laundry and if not, they’ll have nothing to wear.

• The alarm clock you are putting in their room is so they can wake themselves and get to school on time. If not, they’ll get in trouble at school.

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• That you expect respectful talk and no more childish whining.

• That you’ll help in emergencies, such as typing their homework if their fingers are broken (use a little humor). This is something one adult would do for another if they needed the help.

• That you’re not going to nag them any more. You’ll ask once and that’s it. Then, they’ll have to suffer the consequences if they don’t do it in a timely fashion.

• That they’ll have to begin earning some money to pay for their own gas for the car.

You may pay for the insurance and some upkeep; but that’s it.

• That they’ll have to clean their own room.

If they want to live in a dump, that’s their choice. If they want a clean bathroom, you’ll purchase the cleaning materials, but that’s all.

• They’ll have to change burned out light bulbs, wash towels, and scrub their own toilet. Say you can’t do those things for them because you can’t breathe when you’re in their room for the smell of the dirty shoes, socks and shorts.

I’m sure that when you present these things to your son or daughter, you’ll get to see their selfishness in action. They won’t like it and may even throw a tantrum. If so, then it only says that you should have started this process sooner. They’ll drop the ball a few times and have to suffer the consequences as a result, but be sure not to rescue them from their selfishness nor lessen the consequences. Doing so will only cause selfishness and immaturity to continue.

It’s a common phrase I use with kids: “I owe you nothing, but want to give you everything.” This phrase allows me to communicate a “counter” to their selfishness, and promotes a concept of respect.

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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Business Card Directory

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

Page numbers follow the advertiser’s name.

Edible Blossoms, 82

OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 52

Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 73

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 69

Evangel Christian Academy, 21

Pet Palace Hotels, 20

Family Guidance Center, 38

Prattville YMCA, 40

ACE of the River Region, 32

First UMC, Prattville, 21

Professional Pediatrics, 12

Adventure Sports II, 57

Frazer Kindergarten and Preschool, 35

Pump It Up Party, 67

Alabama Christian Academy, 25

Frazer Memorial UMC, 14, 65

River & Blues Festival, 59

Alabama Dance Theatre, 37

Health Services, Inc., 26

Riverview Camp for Girls, 49

AL Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front

Herron Dermatology & Laser, 71

Rockin’ Jump, 61

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 41

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 34

Armory Athletics, 43

Hooper Academy, 52

ASKIN/Synergy House, 82

Huntingdon Basketball Camp, 47

AUM Early Childhood Center, 11

Inflatables of Montgomery, 45

Autauga/Western Elmore Arc, 62

Jenilyn’s Creations, 44

Baptist Health, 13

Kingry Orthodontics, 28

Barb’s on Mulberry, 43

Learning Tree Child Care, 70

Beckham Partners Real Estate, 28

Macon East Academy, 9

Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 32

Mathnasium, 33

Bradford Health Services, 4

MEOW Academy, 37

Cellar Door Wine Club, 82

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 36

Chambers Academy, 15

Montessori @ Mulberry, 17

Chapman Orthodontics, 59

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 2

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 48

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 62

Churchill Academy, 27

Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, IB

Dance Generation, 22

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 19

Dentistry for Children, 45

Moody Learning, 82

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 47

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 82

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 57

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 23

E & S Hobbies, 82

New Park, 3

Saint James School, 1 Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 53 Shade Tree Riding Stables, 51 Shane’s Rib Shack, 30 Shoot for Life, 40 Sleepover Envy, 82 Spacewalker, The, 30 Special Needs Expo, Montg. Parents, 75 Spotless Cleaning Services, 8 Success Unlimited Academy, 18 Sylvan Learning Center, 36 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 22 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 35 Trinity Presbyterian School, 5 Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 69 United Gymstars & Cheer, 51 Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 73 Vaughn Road Preschool, 29

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Cars 3

Transformers: The Last Knight

MPAA Rating: G Time: 1 hr 49 min Overall: AViolence: B Sexual Content: AProfanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated Cars 3 G. Looking in the mirror and seeing a few gray hairs is never easy. For a racing car who’s used to being the leader of the pack, getting old takes on a whole new meaning. It’s not that Lightening McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is slowing down. The problem is the young new cars are speeding up. For a racing car who’s used to being the leader of the pack, getting old takes on a whole new meaning.

Cars 3 is an insightful look at how the finish line that we thought we were headed toward can sometimes change. With a G-rating, there is very little to discourage parents from sharing this movie with their children.

McQueen’s crash and his accidental entry into a demolition derby are two moments when the youngest of children may be frightened.

Otherwise kids and adults will enjoy plot elements that teach of the importance of having a positive outlook while continuing to move forward and accepting new challenges, even if the road doesn’t lead to where we originally thought we were going.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Time: 2 hr 29 min Overall: CViolence: D+ Sexual Content: BProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Transformers: The Last Knight PG13 for violence and intense sequences of sci-fi action, language, and some innuendo.

In a summer movie schedule already packed with sequels, the Transformers are back for their fifth round of colossal clashes. However casual followers of the film may still have a hard time distinguishing who’s good and bad—especially when one of the good guys goes rogue.

Like E.T., Optimus Prime (voice by Peter Cullen) wants to go home. But when he does, he finds a dying planet, one he is responsible for destroying.

Using electrified handcuffs to get Prime’s attention, the Creator charges him with finding an ancient artifact hidden below Earth’s surface. The long lost object will restore the alien homeworld. Hardcore fans of the franchise may relish the action, the explosions, the decapitations and the smack talk. But for the rest of us, it all feels a little long and loud and labored after 90 minutes.

However, if you’ve bought into these toys turned film stars, don’t let the title Transformers: The Last Knight fool you. The movie’s conclusion hints this won’t be the final battle between the Autobots and Decepticons.

Megan Leavey

Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Time: 1 hr 56 min Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: C+ Profanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated Megan Leavey PG-13 for war violence, language, suggestive material, and thematic elements.

When Megan Leavey (Kate Mara) joined the US Marines it wasn’t because she really wanted to serve her country. It was because she really wanted to get away from her dysfunctional family life and hopeless depression that included alcohol and substance abuse. Consequently, she is not the most dedicated cadet at boot camp. But that changes when she is caught drunk and acting disorderly after a night of heavy partying.

For punishment, she is sent to clean out kennels at the base’s K9 training center. While the movie focuses mostly on the relationship between the woman and the dog, there are also a few scenes dedicated to a love interest for Megan (played by Ramon Rodriguez). However, a greater portion of the film’s runtime depicts the Marine and canine’s active service as they take on the dangerous task of detecting bombs, finding weapons, and facing enemy fire.

Like most dog lover’s tales, this story stresses the interconnection that can happen between animals and humans.

Montgomery Parents I July 2017

MPAA Rating: PG Time: 1 hr 29 min Overall: B Violence: BSexual Content: B+ Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Captain Underpants for mild rude humor.

George and Herold (voices of Kevin Hart and Thomas Middleditch) are elementary-aged kids who have been friends since kindergarten. Sharing the same sense of humor, the pals combine their separate talents for writing and art, to make hand-drawn adventure stories featuring a bald action figure in tighty-whities. The pair also likes to play pranks on their teachers as a way to cheer up their fellow students at their penitentiary-like school.

As is to be expected from the film’s title, this script is full, of potty humor.

Perhaps more of a surprise will be the violence that erupts between the boys and the vengeful Professor. While all the depictions are too ridiculous to be taken seriously, they may still be a bit frightening for young viewers.

The story does allow its characters to reconsider their motives, feel remorse for their mockery, and redeem their actions. While these positive moments won’t flush away all the shenanigans, they will likely provide enough charm to amuse older children and tweens.

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We love to see you smile when you celebrate summer with your friends! #smilesfromus #livelifesmiling

2600 Bell Road • Montgomery, Alabama • 334.277.6690 460 McQueen Smith Road • Prattville, Alabama • 334.358.6411 www. SmilesFromUs.com Dr. John H. Payne IV • Dr. J. David Stanley • Dr. R. Davis Denney • Dr. Robert H. Owen

The Montgomery Academy is proud of its Class of 2017!

MA’s last five graduating classes were accepted to these colleges and universities: Alabama A&M University Appalachian State University Arizona State University Ashland 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 Brenau University Brevard College Carnegie Mellon University Case Western Reserve University Centre College 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 Faulkner University Florida State University Fordham University Furman University George Mason University Georgetown University Georgia Institute of Technology Georgia State University Grinnell College Hampden-Sydney College Hampton University Harding University High Point University Hillsdale College Hofstra University Hollins University Howard University Huntingdon College Indiana University Indiana University Bloomington Jacksonville State University James Madison University Kansas State University Kenyon College King’s College Lee University Lipscomb University Louisiana State University Loyola University New Orleans Marshall University Maryland Institute College of Art

Maryville College Mercer University Metropolitan State University of Denver Miami University of Ohio Middle Tennessee State University Millsaps College Mississippi State University Mount Holyoke College Murray State University New York University North Carolina School of the Arts North Carolina State University Northwestern University Oberlin College Ohio University Oklahoma State University Oxford College of Emory University Pace University Parsons School of Design Pepperdine University Prairie View A&M University Pratt Institute Princeton University Purdue University Rhode Island School of Design Rhodes College Samford University Savannah College of Art & Design School of the Art Institute of Chicago School of Visual Arts Sewanee: The University of the South

Slippery Rock University Southeastern Louisiana University Southern Methodist University Spelman College Spring Hill College St. John’s College St. John’s University Stanford University State University of New York at Purchase College Stillman College Syracuse University Tennessee Tech University Texas A&M University Texas Christian University Texas Tech University The Ohio State University Troy University Tulane University United States Air Force Academy United States Military Academy United States Naval Academy University of Alabama University of Alabama at Birmingham University of Alabama in Huntsville University of Arizona University of Arkansas University of California, Berkeley University of California, Davis University of California, Irvine University of California, Los Angeles University of California, San Diego

University of Colorado University of Colorado Boulder University of Denver University of Florida University of Georgia University of Glasgow University of Hartford University of Houston University of Illinois at Chicago University of Illinois at Urbana– Champaign University of Kentucky University of Louisiana at Lafayette University of Louisville University of Massachusetts Amherst University of Massachusetts Boston University of Memphis University of Miami University of Michigan University of Minnesota University of Mississippi University of Mobile University of Montevallo University of New Orleans University of North Alabama University of North Carolina at Asheville University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill University of North Carolina at Charlotte University of North Carolina at Wilmington University of North Carolina at Greensboro

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University of North Texas University of Notre Dame University of Oklahoma University of Pittsburgh University of Richmond University of Rochester University of South Alabama University of South Carolina University of South Florida University of Southern Mississippi University of St. Andrews University of Tennessee University of Texas at Arlington University of Texas at Austin University of Texas at Dallas University of Tulsa University of Vermont University of Virginia University of Washington University of West Florida Vanderbilt University Vassar College Wagner College Wake Forest University Washington and Lee University Washington University in St. Louis Wesleyan University Western Kentucky University Westminster Choir College Westmont College Wofford College Xavier University of Louisiana