Montgomery Parents June 2012

T O N S I D RE .

R O L O C YO U R PUT YOUR SUNSCREEN ON!

Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States.

One person dies of melanoma ever y hour.

One blistering sunburn in childhood can double your chances of developing melanoma.

Use sunscreen with SPF of 30 or higher and apply 20-30 minutes before going outdoors.

Alabama Comprehensive Cancer Control Coalition alabamacancercontrol.org facebook.com/ ALCompCancerCoalition

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Basic tutoring helps kids prep for tests and little else. Kumon is different — we prepare for the classroom and beyond. For more than 50 years, Kumon has provided children of all ages and abilities with more than a quick academic fix — we’ve provided a methodology for learning that transforms lives. And with more than 4 million students worldwide, we’re certain we can help your child gain an unshakable understanding of reading and math and instill the motivation to learn for a lifetime.

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Spend Hot Summer Nights

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New entertainment and store discounts every weekend all summer!

Free Ice Skating & Half Off Carousel Rides!* Cool activities for the entire family this summer!

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Saturday nights, 5–7pm

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Visit eastdale-mall.com for weekly discounts and entertainment schedule.

Belk, Dillard’s, JCPenney, Sears and over 85 Specialty Shops including the River Region’s only Build-A-Bear Workshop ®

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*For kids 10 and under accompanied by an adult.

Restrictions apply.

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Contents June 2012

Volume 17 Number 6

Features 56 Hot Summer Fun Gets Cool

If you don’t have the luxury of a swimming pool, don’t miss these great ideas for water activities you can use right in your own backyard with your kids and their friends.

66 Homeschooling Comes of Age

Learn how technology is changing the face of homeschooling and opening the option up to more families than ever.

70 Homeschool Resource Guide

From curriculum to cover schools and local support groups to extracurricular activities, our guide will help you get started on the path to homeschooling your kids!

Columns 6 From One Parent to Another

80 Potty Training at Night

Discover the reasonable expectations for your children and also how to promote dry nights for them as soon as possible.

DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

12 Kids Health Watch

On The Cover

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces

sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Education Matters

16 School Bits

Superintendent Barbara W. Thompson

54 Get This!

Paige Gardner Smith

58 The FlyLady

78 Library Storytimes

60 Page in a Book

86 Calendar/Support Groups

Marla Cilley

Paige Gardner Smith

104 Movie Reviews Parent Previews

Montgomery Parents I June 2012

Jacob (12) and Conner (8) are sons of Kevin and Wendy McCollum of Montgomery. The boys enjoy the many perks of being homeschooled, including learning outdoors and flexible vacation time. Wendy has been teaching her sons at home since they were both kindergarten age.

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103 Advertiser Directory

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MontgomeryParents

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Founder

Marty Watson (1950-2006)

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com

Associate Editor Alison Rouse

Research Editor Wendy McCollum

Contributing Writers Pam Melyan-Bratton Marla Cilley David W. Drennen, M.D. Malia Jacobson Phil Mitchell, DVM John Rosemond Paige Gardner Smith Barbara W. Thompson

Cover Photography William Frye Photography

Ad Design Tim Welch

Publisher Jason Watson jason@montgomeryparents.com

Advertising Opportunities 334.213.7940 ads@montgomeryparents.com

Member

www.montgomeryparents.com editor@montgomeryparents.com Montgomery Parents magazine is published monthly

by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. The phone number for voice and fax is (334) 213.7940. Montgomery Parents is copyrighted 2012 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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From One Parent to Another...

Watson, Party of 5! Yes, after 18 months of paperwork and waiting, plus three long trips to Moscow, we finally made it home with the 5th member of our family, Lydia “Grace” Watson. On this last trip to pick up 14-monthold Grace, our older children, Will (15) and Anna (11), went along for the experience. We picked up Grace from the orphanage on Saturday, May 5th and I have to say I think she remembered us from the last visit six weeks earlier. She was at least familiar enough to not be upset about us swooping her up and into a car for a two to three hour drive through Moscow traffic until we made it to our apartment. (I have to admit that dose of Benadryl and the constant supply of Goldfish probably helped.)

We spent four days getting final paperwork handled and meeting with the U.S. Embassy, and even did a little sightseeing, but mainly we were all just getting to know each other. After a grueling 18 hours of travel to get back home, we are settled in good ole’ Alabama and Grace is adjusting very well! She has a sweet temperament and is a lot of fun, often showing off the tricks she can do like “peek-a-boo” and blowing kisses. She’s even giving us some real kisses on our lips already, something Jason began teaching her the first week. We are certainly seeing her attach to us as her parents, and we are attaching to her as well. Though the first couple of weeks felt a bit strange and I have struggled with mothering a one year old again after being so far removed from that demanding age, we are all adjusting at a good pace and Grace seems very happy to be here with us. As I often tell folks who ask how things are going-- “I’m just looking to find our family’s ‘new normal,’ and I know that will take time.”

We are so thankful about how smoothly our journey to adopt Grace has been and for all of God’s provisions and prayers answered. He has seen us through this every step of the way, and Grace’s first morning in her new home.

I know He is still guiding us through this transition time. For all of you who have followed our journey and prayed for our family, thank you! If you’d like to read more details about our “Journey to Grace”, please visit our blog at www.adoption.keepsharing.com. Here are a couple of pictures of Grace and our family, but you know I may just have to sneak her on the cover before 2012 is over!

Now, on to this month’s issue. We take the opportunity each June to focus on homeschooling as its popularity continues to increase. Don’t miss our feature article on how technology is changing the face of homeschooling, making it a more approachable idea for many families. Also, our Homeschool Resource Guide has all the information to get you started if you are considering this education option for your kids, including curriculum, local cover schools and support groups, plus extracurricular activities.

As the summer heat comes in full force this month, your kids will want every opportunity to cool off in the water. If you don’t have easy access to a swimming pool, but your kids want to get wet, check out Hot Summer Days Get Cool...With Water Fun! There are plenty of ideas for backyard thrills in the water with balloons, sprinklers, and friends.

The Family Calendar is packed with River Region family fun, and we’ve also included a 4th of July Listing with all the details about regional events to help your crew celebrate with a bang! Finally, Happy Father’s Day to all the dads! I’m married to an amazing father and husband, and I can’t imagine going on our “Journey to Grace”, or any of life’s journeys, with anyone else!

DeAnne 6

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Living With Children

By John Rosemond

Help Child See Relationship Between Freedom & Responsible Behavior Q:

My 12-year-old daughter thinks she’s old enough to set her own bedtime. We told her that we want her in bed, lights out, by 9:30 on weeknights and 10 on non-school nights. This really isn’t working, however, as she continues to try to stay up later. In one of your books, you describe a system for letting teenagers earn their curfew. Can we use a similar system for bedtime?

A: Curfew and bedtime are horses of two

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different colors. The former involves safety, peer group, maturity, and responsibility issues that are not involved, or as involved, as regards bedtime. For that reason, I would not advise using an approach similar to the curfew system that I describe in my book Teen-Proofing.

I generally recommend that parents set no specific bedtime for a child 12 years of age or older; rather, they simply insist that after a certain time—say, 9 p.m.—the child is on non-punitive restriction to her room. Assuming that she does not make it difficult for other family members to get a decent night’s sleep, the youngster can stay up as late as she wants.

However, if getting up in the morning and getting ready for school, church, or whatever become problematic, then the parents go back to enforcing a specific, and relatively early, bedtime. In that unfortunate event, they also remove distracting electronic devices—cell phones, computers, and the like—from the child’s room so that she can fall asleep more easily and get the sleep she obviously needs.

If that step needs to be taken, then the child’s room is cleansed and the “old” bedtime is enforced for at least a month, but no more than two months. Then parents replace the distractions and let the child determine her own bedtime again. My experience is that the “punishment” doesn’t have to be used more than twice before the problem is solved.

This approach helps the pre-teen or young teen see the life-long relationship 8

between freedom (what this age child wants most) and responsible behavior (what parents want most from this age child). To maintain or gain more freedom, the child begins to act more responsibly. Win-win!

Q: Our 4-year-old daughter goes to the bathroom frequently during the day. Sometimes, she will go into the bathroom, pee, come out, and go back in again within minutes. Her need—if that’s the right word—increases when we put her in her room for time-out, during nap time in the afternoon, and after we put her to bed at night. Her pediatrician has ruled out a urinary tract problem. How do you recommend handling this?

A: I’m glad you told me her physician has

ruled out a urinary tract problem because I wouldn’t have given you advice otherwise.

This isn’t the first time parents have described this problem with a girl this age. Odd, for sure, but nearly all young children do odd things of one sort or another, and one or two odd things does not make an odd child. The somewhat selective nature of the problem tells me this is a tad manipulative.

Tell your daughter that if she has to go to the bathroom more than once during her nap time, that you have to move her bedtime back one hour that evening (notice the margin of error). Otherwise, I recommend that you completely—and I mean COMPLETELY— ignore her need to be in frequent contact with white porcelain during normal waking hours.

With dispassionate enforcement on your part, the naptime urges should disappear within a couple of weeks.

When you think that part of the problem has been solved, use a similar approach concerning her bedtime urges. Tell her that if she goes to the bathroom more than once after being put to bed, you will move her bedtime back an hour the next night. If my experience serves me well, that approach—ignoring and a mild consequence—should clear up her urinary tract hyperactivity in short order.

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

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If you are 50 or older, get screened for colorectal cancer COlOreCTAl CANCer IS THe 2ND leADINg CANCer kIller IN AlABAMA.

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Find colorectal cancer early by getting one of these procedures:

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• High-sensitivity gFOBT, iFOBT, or FIT anually • Flexible Sigmoidoscopy every 5 years • Colonoscopy every 10 years Do you want to be screened but are worried about:

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• Transportation • Cost • Time

ALABAMA

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• • • • • •

No need to change eating habits No need to change medications No liquids to drink No day off work Done in privacy of your home Mail back in a few days

This test is covered by many health insurance plans, including Medicare, Medicaid, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Alabama. Be healthy and celebrate your life!

Ask your doctor about screening options for colorectal cancer, including the new take-home test called FIT or iFOBT. If you are at high risk for colorectal cancer, you may need to be screened more frequently.

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AMA

The FIT is an easy way to be tested for colorectal cancer:

A L A B A M A Colorectal Cancer Prevention Program

Montgomery Parents I June 2012

For more information, talk to your doctor /FITWAY .

9or visit www.montgomeryparents.com

bits & pieces Family Fun Nights At Eastdale Mall

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Eastdale Mall’s Family Fun Nights provide families in the River Region with an exciting evening filled with hands-on activities, story times, performances presented by area attractions and discounts from participating mall merchants. Eastdale Mall’s Family Fun Nights are scheduled for every Saturday between 5 and 7 p.m. June 2 through August 4. Children 10 and under will be able to ice skate for free and ride the carousel for half price during Family Fun Nights.

Upcoming Theatre

Wetumpka Depot Players present Wiley and the Hairy Man, running through June 9. Drawn from an Alabama folktale, this is the story of a young boy named Wiley, who lives near the Tombigbee River with his mother and his faithful hound dogs. The clever and menacing Hairy Man also inhabits the mysterious swampland. He haunts Wiley’s days and invades his dreams. “Outwit the Hairy Man three times and he won’t scare you ever again,” advises Mother. So Wiley sets out into the swamp to confront the Hairy Man. For audiences young and young at heart! For tickets, visit www.wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Faulkner Dinner Theatre presents The Three Musketeers June 6-23. Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7, with the show beginning promptly at 7:30.

Tickets are $25 and include dinner and the show.

Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $20. Reservations must be paid in advance. For reservations or more information, call 386-7190 or e-mail boxoffice@faulkner.edu.

Starting Here, Starting Now runs June 21-24 and June 28-July 1 at the Cloverdale Playhouse. It is a memorable revue of songs that enchant, inspire, get the toes tapping and the hearts fluttering. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat.; 2 p.m. Sun. (Some material may not be suitable for children under 12 years old.)

The Cloverdale Playhouse Troupe will present Fables Here and Then July 12-13 at 7 p.m., and July 14 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. This is a collection of stories and legends from around the world adapted by David Feldshuh. With music and magic, wonderful young actors from our community present the Playhouse Troupe’s inaugural production. Call (334) 262-1530 for tickets. $10 adults, $5 children under 12. Visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org Direct from South Korea, the Alabama Shakespeare Festival will present the Broadway and international hit NANTA Cooking Show July 11-15. Combine one part Iron Chef and one part STOMP! and you get NANTA. This amazing theatrical spectacular features five fabulous Korean chefs that drum (with knives), juggle (with knives) and literally cook their way through a fast-paced evening of music, laughter and culinary delight.

Tickets are available by calling 271-5353, visiting www.asf.net or going to the ASF box office in Blount Cultural Park. www.montgomeryparents.com

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June 14-August 10 Thursdays & Fridays 10 a.m. & 1 p.m.

All tickets are $1.

Monsters vs Aliens (PG) June 14-15 Puss In Boots (PG) June 21-22 Kung Fu Panda 2 (PG) June 28-29 Spirit (G)

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Ag le June 11-August 9 Mondays & Thursdays at 10 a.m.

Cats & Dogs June 11 & 14 Legend of the Guardians June 18 & 21 Yogi Bear June 25 & 28 Happy Feet Two July 2 & 5 Journey 2 to the Mysterious Island

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Riverfront Park FREE Family Event

Offered the second Saturday of every month from 5-8 p.m. Actvities include: live entertainment, interactive activities for all ages (bocce ball & more), food vendors and cocktails served from the SandBAR! Vendors include: iCantina, Dreamland, Peppertree Steaks and Wines, Cheezie’s Pizza, Nancy’s Italian Ice, Spacewalker, Bruster’s Ice Cream and Nathan’s Hotdogs.

For more information, call 625-2100.

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Russell Marine Annual July 4th Boat Parade

AUM Hosts School’s Out for Summer Bash

June 8, kicking off third annual Summer Concert Series After 180 days of homework, exams, projects and presentations, the final bell of the school year will ring on June 8. Join us from 6-8 p.m. on the quad to enjoy food, games, and a repeat performance by the family-friendly band D’Zyre. Admission is free, but guests are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for the Montgomery Food Bank.

The event is the first installment of the third annual AUM Summer Concert Series.

Back by popular demand, Tuskegee soul/funk band D’Zyre will headline with tunes like “My Girl,” “Brick House,” “No Parking on the Dance Floor” and “Stand by Me.” Outdoor games and activities will be offered, including sidewalk chalk, bubbles, coloring pages, Frisbees, and hula-hoops. AUM mascot Curtiss the Warhawk will also pop in for a visit.

Bring your own lawn chairs and picnic blankets. Outside food is welcome, but Boomer T’s Barbecue will sell hamburgers, hotdogs, barbeque sandwiches, loaded nachos, drinks and snacks (credit cards and cash accepted).

In case of inclement weather, festivities will be moved inside the AUM Physical Education Complex.

Please mark your calendars for the entire concert series: July 13, Beach Party, featuring the cool reggae jams of The Good Doctor; August 17, Get Inspired, with musical inspiration from Clint Darby and the BTW Magnet High School chorus. Learn more at www.aum.edu/summerconcert.

Babysitters’ Training Workshop

June 11 & 12 * Doster Community Center, Prattville Ages 11-15. This course covers safety, first aid, professionalism, leadership and care-giving skills. Also includes tips for getting baby-sitting jobs. These courses cover certification I babysitters’ training. Hours are 9 a.m.- 4 p.m. first day (bring your lunch) and 9 a.m.-noon second day. Fees are $85 (includes baby-sitter’s handbook, baby-sitter’s pin, class material and baby-sitter’s backpack) for first day or $25 (includes certification and handbook only) for second day. Check payable to: American Red Cross. Call 361-3640 to pre-register!

Kowaliga Marina, Alexander City.

Boats of all sizes, shapes and decorations parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor, circling just past the lighthouse and back to Kowaliga Marina.

Top honors for tallest flag, largest flag, most patriotic and most creative.

4th of July Music Blast and Fireworks at Lake Martin Amphitheater Gates open at 5 p.m. Music, 6-9 p.m.

Fireworks 9-9:45 p.m. FREE events. Visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com or call (334) 857-2111.

Summer Concerts for Pre-Schoolers

SuperWhy! Live at Birmingham-Jefferson Civic Center July 20 at 6:30 p.m.

For tickets, call 800-745-3000 or visit www.ticketmaster.com The Wiggles Live at Atlanta Fox Theatre July 31 at 2:30 & 6:30 p.m.

The original Fab Four from Down Under are back together! The Wiggles summer tour will reunite Anthony, Jeff and Murray with Yellow Wiggle Greg Page as they perform together for the first time in five years.

Visit www.foxtheatre.org or call (404) 881-2100.

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Kids Heal h Watch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Poison Ivy, Oak and Sumac As summer approaches and your children are spending more time outside, you may not only have to worry about sunburn and insect bites, but also potential exposure to poisonous plants that produce noxious type rashes. Poison Ivy, Oak, and Sumac cause a skin irritation in 50% of children exposed during the spring, summer, and fall.

Uroshiol, an oily resin found in these plants, can cause an allergic contact dermatitis rash. This reaction oc-curs from several hours to three days after contact and initially may appear as red streaks or lines due to the plant brushing up against the skin. Intense burning and itching sensations occur as blisters quickly form.

These blisters then rupture and exude a yellow fluid. If the child touches pet fur or clothing that has come in contact with this resin, the resulting rash may be more spread out instead of in streaks.

The severity of the rash depends on the amount of resin that remains on the skin, under the child’s fingernails or on the fur of a pet. Contrary to popular opinion, the fluid in the blisters is not contagious and does not cause the rash to spread on the victim’s skin or to others. In severe cases new areas of rash may break out several days after exposure. This may appear that the rash is

spreading, but it is most likely due to variable rates of resin absorption by the skin in different locations.

Treating reactions to the plant exposures begin with prevention by avoidance.

Be able to recognize and know where these plants grow. Poison Ivy is common in all parts of the country except in the Southwest.

It is a red-stemmed three leafed vine whose shiny green leaves turn bright red in the fall. It may also produce white berries.

Poison Sumac grows primarily in swampy areas such as the Mississippi River region. It is not a vine but a shrub and has seven to thirteen leaves arranged in pairs along a central stem. Poison Oak, a shrub having green shiny leaves, three to a stem, grows mainly on the West Coast. It may also produce white berries. All three of these plants cause similar skin reactions that are forms of contact dermatitis.

Long pants and long sleeve shirts will provide some protection when traversing the terrain. Some experts suggest applying resin blocking lotions such as Ivy Block to exposed areas to prevent resin contact with the skin while hiking thru heavily wooded areas.

If there is contact, wash the exposed area immediately with soap and water for at least ten minutes. Also wash all clothes and shoes

in soap and water. If redness or an itchy blistery rash occurs, symptomatic relief may be obtained by soaking the affected area in cool water for a few minutes or by rubbing the area gently for 10-20 minutes several times a day with an ice cube. If the rash is still uncomfortable, Calamine lotion may be applied 3-4 times per day. To decrease inflammation 1% Hydrocortisone, applied four times a day, is helpful. To prevent scratching and further damage to skin, keep your child’s finger-nails trimmed. Benadryl may be given every 6 hours for excessive itching.

The pediatrician should be called if the rash fails to respond to the above home remedies. If the rash is severe with many facial blisters or extensive bodily involvement, a steroid given orally or by injection may be required. If the child is febrile or has any other evidence of secondary bacterial infection, he should be examined in the office.

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

Dr. C. Allen White Dr. Robert L. Coggin Dr. David W. Drennen Dr. Karen Doles Dr. Malissa Hoy

OFFICE (334) 271-5959 NURSE LINE (334) 272-6667

Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS

OFFICE HOURS Mon-Thurs Friday Saturday Sunday www.montgomeryparents.com

8:00 am - Evening Appts.

8:00 am - 4:00 pm 9:00 am - 12:00 noon 1:00 pm - 4:00 pm 12

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MPS School Number One in State Each year U.S. News and World Report names the top high schools in the nation. For the past few years that list has included schools from Montgomery County – the only school system in the River Region to have schools to receive that distinction. This year four of MPS schools made the list – and one, Loveless, was named the top high school in Alabama.

Loveless Academic Magnet Program, Brewbaker Technology Magnet High, Booker T. Washington Magnet High and Carver High School all made the publication’s 2012 Best High Schools list, which includes data on nearly 22,000 public high schools from 49 states and the District of Columbia.

U.S. News & World Report determines its rankings by analyzing schools at the state level in terms of how well students in each school performed on state assessments. Loveless was given Gold Medal status, Booker T. Washington and Brewbaker Technology earned Silver Medals, and Carver was among the schools named Bronze Medalist.

As superintendent it thrills me to have four schools receive national recognition for their hard work and dedication to students. Student achievement is our top priority. As a district we have increased our Advanced Placement offerings, will offer International Baccalaureate programs this fall, and will continue put tools in place that help students achieve. This recognition shows that our students can successwww.montgomeryparents.com

fully compete against anyone in the country.

Loveless ranked number one in the state and 32nd on the list of the nation’s top 500 high schools. They also were named the eighth best magnet school in the nation. For the past several years, the school has consistently achieved Gold Medal status.

Three of the MPS schools named as among the best in America are magnet schools, but Carver High School, a traditional school in Montgomery, joined this elite group as a Bronze Medalist.

Carver received the same distinction in 2009. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to accomplish what these four schools have done.

We are working to improve all our high schools. Restructuring Lee High and adding Teach for America faculty at that school promises wonderful results.

Our other traditional high schools have added ninth grade academies and other changes are on their way. Additionally, adding the new Montgomery TEC this fall will provide students who may not be bound for college the opportunity to finish high school with highly marketable skills.

I especially want to thank our parents who have supported their children’s schools. They have worked closely with teachers and administrators to help students understand the importance of a good education and the dividends it pays.

Again, congratulations to the students, faculty, administrators, and parents of these four schools who have worked hard to receive this important distinction. We are proud of you.

To view the complete list of award winners, visit www.usnews.com/ education/best-high-schools.

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MPS Salutes Top Academic Performers Montgomery Public Schools recently recognized more than 700 high performing students during its 2012 Academic Banquet on April 30 at Frazer Memorial United Methodist Church. Dr. Henry C. Mabry, Executive Secretary for the Alabama Education Association, served as keynote speaker.

About 770 students were recognized at the annual awards dinner which salutes high school students for their academic accomplishments, leadership, and community service.

“Increasing student achievement is one of our primary goals, so to be adding 320 more students to our honor rolls this year speaks to the continuous improvements we are making in our district,” said MPS Superintendent Barbara Thompson.

“It’s fitting that we recognize the hard work and dedication our students have shown because they are planting seeds of excellence that will grow and reproduce in their lives long after they graduate from high school. Their teachers, parents, and communities have invested a lot in them. Whether they decide to continue their education, seek employment, or start their own business, the commitment they have shown to education during high school will benefit them for years to come. I’m so proud of what they have achieved.”

Awards were presented to students who achieved A and A/B honor roll.

In addition, individual schools presented special recognitions to 60 students who distinguished themselves through service to student organizations and community volunteerism.

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Congratulations to the Class of 2012!

Saint James School graduates have been accepted to the following colleges and universities: Air Force Academy

Elon University

Mississippi College

Savannah College of Art and Design

Agnes Scott College

Embry Riddle Aeronautical University

University of Mississippi

Smith College

University of Alabama, Birmingham

Emory University

Mississippi State University

University of Southern California

University of Alabama, Huntsville

Emory & Henry University

University of Missouri

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for pre k3-12th grade admissions info call

334.273.3000

6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery | stjweb.org Saint James School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

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Saint James School Places in All Three Events at Math and Computer Olympiad

BTW Teacher Receives Distinguished Award

Foster Dickson, a creative writing teacher at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School, was presented a Distinguished Alumnus Award from Auburn University at Montgomery’s School of Liberal Arts on April 24. Dickson earned a bachelor’s degree in English from AUM in 1996 and a Master of Liberal Arts in 2008.

He has received Outstanding Secondary Teacher of the Year awards from the Montgomery County Board of Education, the Montgomery County Council of PTAs, and the Alabama PTA. From left, BTW teacher Foster Dickson accepts a Distinguished Alumnus Award from AUM Dean of Liberal Arts Michael Burger. (Photo by Frank C. Williams)

Saint James School was the only competitor to place in all three events of the High School Math and Computing Olympiad Competition, held at Alabama State University April 13. STJ’s three teams competed against 17 schools from across central Alabama including magnet schools, and three Montgomery private schools. In addition to exciting wins, the event is notorious for the fabulous prizes awarded to each competing team member.

The STJ Math team took second place and consisted of Brad Murry, Chase Ritter and Austin Meadows. Each team member was awarded a Samsung Galaxy (touch pad) Tablet and several tablet accessories.

The second place Saint James Web Design team was comprised of Jay McCollum, Julian Hill and Jeremy Frasher. Again, each team member won Samsung Galaxy Tablets.

STJ’s Alice 3D Programming Team came in third place and consisted of Alison Lakhani, Stephen Bisbee and Austin Yost. These team members each won large Robotics Kits manufactured by Mindstorms.

Saint James computer instructor David Long said he was especially proud of the Saint James students because “the competition was extremely intense and competitive.”

The school’s three teams are (seated) STJ’s Alice 3D Programming team: Alison Lakhani, Stephen Bisbee and Austin Yost; (kneeling) Saint James Website Design Team: Julian Hill, Jay McCollum and Jeremy Frasher; and (standing) STJ’s Math Team Austin Meadows, Chase Ritter and Brad Murry.

Montgomery Catholic Welcomes Children’s Author

Macon-East Student Earns Taekwondo Black Belt

Rachel Sargent, a student at Macon-East and of Tiger-Rock Taekwondo Academy, made the rank of First Degree, Level I Black Belt. She is pictured with one of her instructors, Andrew Jones, a Macon-East alumnus. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s St. Bede Campus recently welcomed children’s author Dr. Beulah (B) Shelton Coyne as she shared her latest literary work, Treading Water on Ripple Creek Farm: Lily, with the students. Dressed in period clothing from the book’s setting of the Great Depression and World War II, Dr. Coyne read excerpts from her book and answered questions about the main characters and the storyline.

Treading Water on Ripple Creek Farm: Lily offers readers a trip back in time when life seemed to move at a little slower pace, when families and communities were closely connected, and times might have been hard but they were good. For more information about Dr. Coyne and her book, visit http://www.bcoyne-author.com/. Dr. Coyne is also the research associate to the Dean of the Beeson Divinity School at Samford University in Birmingham.

Shown, Montgomery Catholic elementary librarian Lee Anne Barranco with special guest children’s author Dr. B. Coyne and sixth-grade students Patrick Azubuike, Emily Jones and Todd Sanderson. (photo by Mary Kelley) 16

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Cornerstone Students Visit Water Course in Clanton

Springtime at SUA

It’s springtime and the elementary classes at Success Unlimited Academy are learning about earthworms! We all know that they are wiggly and slimy, but did you know that they have no nose, no ears, and no eyes? Wes Steward brought a few earthworms to school for everyone to see. As you can tell by the smiles, we all enjoyed getting to touch and observe these helpful creatures!

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Each year, third-grade students from Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy eagerly anticipate their field trip to the Water Course in Clanton, Ala. Following a science study on electricity, water conservation and the importance of water to human beings and the environment, the Water Course is a great experience. The hands-on exhibits sponsored

by Alabama Power Company give the students first-hand experience and enhance their understanding of protecting and using this important natural resource. On the way home, the students had the opportunity to stop by Peach Park for a picnic and a wonderful treat of peach ice cream!

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Fitzpatrick Announces Model & Master Teachers

Fitzpatrick Elementary announces its most recent Model and Master teachers.

Model teachers are: Helen Kimball and Jennifer Rodgers (Kindergarten), Angela Franklin (1st grade), Adrian Wright, Linda Thomas, Maurice Jackson and Mattie Jones (2nd grade), Brenda Pettway (3rd Grade) and Edward Hodge (5th grade).

Master teachers are: Betty Ann Palmer (Technology Coordinator), Claudette Sadowski (Librarian), Diana Motley and Sandra Anthony (Kindergarten), Johnnie M. Nelson and Ethel Vinson (1st grade), Anita Hudson (2nd grade), Cassandra Mitchell (3rd grade) and Anntonia Owens (5th grade).

Jeff Davis Students Place in Speech Contest

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Jefferson Davis High School juniors Ladeja Anthony-Crum and Joe Williams won second and third place respectively in an oratorical contest held April 14. Other JD students who competed were Emmily Perry and Rosa Gomez. All participants received certificates while the winners received additional cash prizes. Students delivered their speeches from memory for 6-10 minutes in length. The students were entered by their AP Language teacher, Dr. Brown. The Grand Lodge of Elks Depratment of Education hosted the event in which contestants are to research, write and present an original speech based on one of the five official topics.

From left are: Joe Williams (3rd place), Ladeja AnthonyCrum (2nd place), Dr. Barbara Brown, Ed. D (teacher), Rosa Gomez (contestant), and Emmily Perry (contestant).

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ECA Student Places at State Art Competition

Dennis Yang recently represented Evangel Christian Academy at the State AISA Art Show. Yang had previously placed first at the ECA Art Show and advanced to the AISA District Art Show where he also took home a first-place ribbon. Yang then progressed to the AISA State level where he placed third in the Non-Color Drawing Division.

www.montgomeryparents.com

LA A Highland Avenue Readers Rewarded with Bowling Highland Avenue School’s Elite Readers enjoyed a day at ACE Bowling Center as a reward for meeting their Accelerated Reader Goal for the Third Nine Weeks with 90% accuracy in comprehension!

Jun Pro all of

Eastwood Kindergarten Holds ‘QU’ Wedding

Have you ever wondered why whenever you see “Q” in a word, you will often see “U”? Well, maybe you didn’t know, or maybe you didn’t remember that a long, long time ago, “Q” and “U” got married.

To celebrate this fact, the kindergarten class at Eastwood Christian School was invited to another wedding of “Q” and “U” which included getting all dressed up for the ceremony, a yummy cupcake reception, and a wave good-bye as they rode off into the sunset as the happily married “QU.”

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

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LAMP Student Has Perfect Attendance for 13 Years!

Gennesaret Sealy graduates on June 5 from Loveless Academic Magnet Program. Having attended magnet schools all her life, she will graduate with a record of perfect attendance from kindergarten through the twelfth grade. Sealy will attend the University of Alabama in the fall on an academic scholarship and major in communication studies. An involved member of LAMP’s debate team, she belongs to its honor society, the National Forensics League. With a 3.71 GPA, Sealy is also a member of the National Honor Society.

Concerned about youth today, she leads a lunchtime bible study on Thursdays and enthusiastically participates in LAMP’s chapter of FCS, the Fellowship of Christian Students. Furthermore, she is a part of the worship team at her church, Sitting at His Feet Fellowship, where her parents Greg & Lynda are pastors.

ACA Names Wade Black Norton Award-Winners

Alabama Christian Academy seniors Mitchell Henry and Brittnei Scott recently received the Wade Black Norton Award during Awards Day. The award was presented by Mr. Ted Norton, father of the late Wade Norton. This award is presented to a male and female senior student athlete who are dedicated to personal integrity, Christian values in the home, church and school, athletic leadership and academic achievement. The faculty makes the ultimate selection.

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EMCA Receives Statewide SGA Awards

MA Sixth-Graders Visit Jasmine Hill Gardens

The 33rd annual Sixth Grade Olympic Games Celebration was held on April 12 at Jasmine Hill Gardens. The gardens, filled with tributes to Greek buildings and an abundance of different flora, were the perfect place for this epic competition between the Cardinal and Navy city-states. The day began with the lighting of the Olympic Flame at the Temple of Hera, which is the true birthplace of the Olympic Flame in Greece.

After the torch was lit, the students began the athletic events where they competed in the marathon, discus throwing, lightning bolt race, javelin throwing and other events.

“When we visit Jasmine Hill Gardens, we see some of the flavor that we have previously studied about Greece and some of its famous ruins and statuary,” said sixthgrade social studies teacher Carole Quallio.

The students then performed their version of a famous story from Greek mythology. There were many interpretations performed and included such stories as Pandora, the Cyclops and King Midas.

The winning performance was the story of the Trojan Horse presented by the Cardinal team. Following the play performances, the students stopped for lunch and to enjoy the grounds before beginning the scavenger hunt. The day wrapped up with an Awards Ceremony where Navy was declared the winning city-state!

Lighthouse Pre-Schoolers Enjoy Wheel Day

On May 7, East Memorial Christian Academy’s SGA Officers and scrapbook class attended the SGA State Convention at Faulkner University in Montgomery. Ambitious EMCA students heard campaign speeches from the various candidates and participated in the SGA Statewide Elections for Officers. In an effort to show their true professionalism, students chose to dress the part by making it a “dress-up day.” Students reviewed the scrapbooks submitted for competition and held a brainstorming session to adopt ideas for next year’s school scrapbook. EMCA was honored with a $100 cash award and a certificate for winning the STATE SGA CAN-A-THON. They donated more than 7,000 canned food items to charity, more than any other school in AISA.

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Trinity’s Baseball Team Wins 3A State Championship

The Trinity Presbyterian School baseball team (29-13) won the Class 3A state baseball championship on May 17 as the Wildcats took down Piedmont 12-0 at Riverwalk Stadium. Mark White was named MVP of the series. The Wildcats totaled 14 hits, 13 of them singles, and scored their most runs of the playoffs.

William Stabler, Mark White and Chas Mitchell each had two RBIs and a run scored. Trace Johnson and Hunter Chambliss scored twice each. Pitcher Allen Wood (10-0) al-

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lowed two hits with two strikeouts in six innings.

Winning his career 600th win during the semi-finals against Montevallo, Hall of Fame Coach Whittle never doubted his team and their ability to win. “This is such a special group of guys,” Whittle said. “They believed they could do it when a lot of folks doubted them. They knew they could do it.” Whittle (602-209) began his coaching career at Trinity in 1981 and has won 4 state championships since that time, including 1985, 1996, 2000 and 2012.

The Wildcats were the area runner-up and advanced through the playoffs each week with victories over Slocomb, Lamp, Bayside and Montevallo. The championship series culminated with sweeping Piedmont in two games for the state title.

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Pre-school students at Lighthouse Christian Academy enjoyed “Wheel Day” in the parking lot of the school. Students from the 2- and 3-year-old pre-school classes learned about bicycle safety by doing. Students had more room than their little legs could peddle in while under the watchful eye of their teachers and principal. Guess who slept well during naptime that day? www.montgomeryparents.com

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Redland Group Competes in McWane Science Center Challenge

Redland Elementary’s 4th grade GATE (Gifted and Talented Education) students competed in the Celebrate Science Prototype Design Challenge sponsored by the McWane Center in Birmingham.

Classes are chosen to participate based on applications submitted by teachers. The classes visit the McWane Center in the fall for a behind-the-scenes tour and an instructional lesson on exhibits and designs. The center gives each class $200 for design materials. The students return to school with the goal of brainstorming prototype ideas based on what they learned during the visit.

In February, McWane representatives travel to each school to hear presentations on three science exhibit prototype ideas chosen by the students. The representatives discuss the science behind the ideas and review physical criteria for an exhibit. Students then choose one idea and begin creating and building the prototype for competition.

Students return to Birmingham at the end of the school for the awards celebration. All of the prototypes are revealed and students have the opportunity to learn about each one. Students enjoy a science program and then the awards are announced. Carrie Pinckard’s 4th-graders won the President’s Award trophy and $500 this year for their “Steel City Magnetic Climbing Towers” prototype.

McWane Center President Amy Chauvin chose their prototype because of its historic tie to the city, excellent structure, unique use of science, and their careful consideration to McWane Center visitors.

Frazer Pre-schoolers Visit Artists’ Studio

LEON LOARD’s Corporate Office and Artists’ Studio in Old Cloverdale welcomed several young artists from Frazer Memorial Christian Kindergarten in April. Parents and students learned about LEON LOARD’s long tradition of creating fine hand-painted oil portraits during a tour of the Studio. Following the tour, professional portrait artist Craig Carlson demonstrated his unique painting techniques and introduced students to other painting styles.

Carlson then took the students outside for an expert art lesson that taught them the secrets to drawing the human head. Each student carefully followed Carlson’s instructions while parents and teachers joined in the fun by helping students create treasured drawings.

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Re Area Fourth-Graders Participate in AUM Program

More than 3,000 Montgomery area fourth graders gathered at Auburn University at Montgomery May 15 and 16 for the 12th annual Montgomery County Water Festival.

Through hands-on activities, such as constructing mini-filitration systems as pictured, they learned how to become wise stewards of our most precious resource – water.

Established in 2001, the festival is hosted by AUM’s School of Sciences and Department of Biology, in collaboration with the Montgomery Water Works andSanitary Sewer Board, Alabama Department of Environmental Management, Alabama Department of Public Health, Alabama Clean Water Partnership, National Resources Conservation Service, and Montgomery Public Schools. The event is offered each spring for free to area public, private and home schools.

(Photo by Frank C. Williams)

First Grade Visits Old Alabama Town

Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s first-graders experienced pioneer life first hand as they toured Montgomery’s Old Alabama Town. The field trip was the culmination of their study on pioneer life. In the history curriculum for the first grade, Cornerstone students study a timeline of world history, with the majority of the events at the end of the year being focused on American history. “We loved sitting in the school desks and experiencing what it would have been like to live as a child in the 18th and early 19th centuries in Alabama. We are thankful that we live now with all our modern conveniences and opportunities,” stated first-grade teacher Jordan Andrew. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Catholic’s Parrish Receives MAX Scholarship

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School senior Tyler Parrish recently received a 2012 MAX4Kids Foundation Scholarship. Parrish was one of ten Montgomery area seniors to receive a $5,000 scholarship in the community.

Parrish was chosen based on scholarship achievement, extra curricular activities, qualities of character and leadership, and an essay. The scholarship recipients were recently honored during a special reception held at Max Federal Credit Union’s Eastdale branch. Parrish also received a certificate from officials with Max Federal Credit Union at Montgomery Catholic’s Senior Day Ceremony on May 21.

Holy Cross 2nd Grade Goes Prehistoric

The Holy Cross 2nd-graders have a new respect for dinosaurs after their study of the prehistoric creatures. Each child was assigned a particular dinosaur to research. After finding information about the chosen creature, the student created a shoebox showing the dinosaur in its habitat. The student also wrote a report to be given orally before the class. The third element of the project was to measure out a piece of yarn, string or ribbon that was the length of the dinosaur.

The students gave their reports before the class with the shoebox visual aid.

They then proceeded outside to compare the lengths of the different dinosaurs.

They were amazed at the size of these amazing creatures!

Shown, second-graders enjoy comparing the sizes of their dinosaurs!

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Success Unlimited Students ‘Marry’ for School

ECA Elects SGA Officers

Evangel Christian Academy’s high school students recently held elections for Student Government Association officers.

Aliyah Davis was elected president and Sophie Key was elected vice president.

Emily Berg was chosen as the secretary.

Timothy Williams was selected treasurer. Amy May was elected to serve as the chaplain. Emily Cosgrove and Mary Beth Peters were chosen to serve as reporters. The new leaders will serve for the 2012-2013 school year.

Students in Lauren Morgan’s Consumer Math classes at Success Unlimited Academy vowed, “I do” this month to experience the ups and downs of being married and learn how to spend their money. Their teacher held a special ceremony for the students which included presenting them with their “marriage certificates” and having a classroom wedding reception of cookies and sparkling cider. Decorated with flowers, streamers and “Just Married” signs, the classroom decor welcomed surprised students on the day of the ceremony.

This particular unit in their text taught them how to budget their money wisely into different categories including Housing, Transportation, Savings, Entertainment, Food, Taxes and Utilities, to name a few. Some couples were blessed with “children” as well.

After researching the cost of living, students created a PowerPoint presentation to show their classmates what they discovered about living on their own. “I liked this project because it taught me about how I should budget my money when I graduate, and it also showed me how expensive things are that I didn’t realize,” stated Tyneshia Williams.

Pictured are Wesley Vaughn and Patrick Mapp.

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Trinity Students Place in the Top 25 in the State on the National French Exam

Twenty-two Trinity School students have placed in the top twenty-five scores in the state this year on the National French Exam. In French IV in the top 25 scores in the state: Jordie Deal, Sarah Young, Skip Portis and Jordan Paramore. In French III in the top 25 scores: Tanner Cox, Blakely Brown and Mary Augusta Slawson; in the top 20 scores: Nina Smith and Abby Betts. In French II in the top 25 scores: Adrianna Diaz, Miranda Register; in the top 20 scores: Becca Murdoch. In French I in the top 25 scores: Joseph Hixon, Emma Paramore, Autumn Thaggard, Pat Williams, Elisabeth Bowman, Annelise Patterson; in the top 20 scores: Anna Lee Curles, Haley Gentry, Michael Sellers, Anna Gentry.

Back row from left are: Becca Murdoch, Elisabeth Bowman, Nina Smith, Emma Paramore, Michael Sellers, Tanner Cox, Pat Williams, Abby Betts, Anna Lee Curles and Miranda Register; middle row: Jordan Paramore, Jordie Deal, Sarah Young, Blakely Brown; front row: Haley Gentry, Annelise Patterson, Autumn Thaggard, Anna Gentry, Adrianna Diaz. Not pictured: Joseph Hixon, Skip Portis, Mary Augusta Slawson

Local Student Receives President’s Volunteer Service Award

Laura Grace Henry, a third-grader at Prattville Christian Academy, has been awarded the 2012 President’s Youth Volunteer Service Gold Award. The award recognizes young volunteers between the ages of seven and 14 years, who have performed more than 100 hours of documented community service work through various non-profit organizations. She received a signed congratulatory letter from President Obama, a Certificate of Recognition and a gold community service pin. She also received this award in 2011.

During the May 15 Prattville City Council meeting, Henry was presented President Obama’s volunteer award from Councilman Tom Miller. Mayor Bill Gillespie presented her with commendation from the City recognizing her for her volunteer efforts.

To date, Henry has performed more than 100 hours of community service for organizations and individual projects including: Children’s Miracle Network , an Alabama Tornado Relief Food and Supplies Drive, visited and entertained at local nursing homes with her piano teacher, Donna Wilson and fellow class members, organized Project Bear Hugs - a teddy bear collection drive which gives bears to children in domestic violence situations and child abuse, and organized a food collection drive where 183 pounds of food and supplies were donated to Autauga Inner-Faith Care Council. Most recently, Henry and her thirdgrade class visited the First Presbyterian Pre-School where she and her classmates read books and assisted the children with crafts, as part of a community service project for Prattville Christian Academy’s Spiritual Emphasis Day. Photo provided by Teresa Lee, City of Prattville, P.I.O. Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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A PCA Holds Spiritual Emphasis Day

where i will grow

As Central Alabama’s 21st Century Technology School, Saint James is proud to be on the cutting edge once again... bringing the latest in technology to your child.

Starting this fall, each student in grades 6–8 will be assigned iPads® and all high school students will be assigned MacBooks.® Preschool and elementary students will continue to have regular access to iPod®, iPad® and MacBook® carts.

Visit our state-of-the-art campus and picture your child soaring to new heights – right from the classroom!

for pre k3-12th grade admissions info call

334.273.3000

6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery

■

stjweb.org

English as a second language (ESL) tutoring provided.

Saint James School admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

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Prattville Christian Academy High School students donated service hours to local communities and organizations on April 27. Ninth- through twelfth-graders performed tasks for various organizations in the Tri-County area during “Spiritual Emphasis Day” as a way to serve others as the Bible instructs us to do. Students painted, cleaned, served meals, planted flowers and did various yard work for the groups listed below in observance of PCA’s Spiritual Emphasis Day: Montgomery Clean City Commission, Greensprings Assisted Living, YMCA Camp Grandview, Alabama Wildlife Federation, Louise M. Smith Center, Autauga County Humane Shelter, Habitat’s ReStore, Successful Living Center, Iron Men Outdoor Ministries – Snowdoun Senior Center, Autauga Creek Improvement Committee and Montgomery Homeless Shelter.

PCA Spiritual Director Baron Goins said, “These students worked really hard and devoted their time and effort to serve others in need. One of our goals as a Christian School is to encourage each student to grow in his or her walk with Christ, and serving others is a vital part of that growth.”

Below is Jake Hill, a PCA ninthgrader who planted flowers at the Greensprings Assisted Living Center during PCA’s Spiritual Emphasis Day.

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ACA Holds National Elementary Honor Society Induction

On April 29, the Alabama Christian Academy chapter of the National Elementary Honor Society inducted nine new members from the fifth grade and nine from the fourth grade. Students were selected based on their good academic record and positive behavior. The induction started with a candle-lighting ceremony and readings from NEHS members who were inducted in the fall. It concluded with the inductees reciting the NEHS pledge and receiving their certificates. Following the induction, family and friends were invited to join the new members at a reception in their honor.

Back row from left: Virginia Speirs, Shelby Austin, Anna Marie Gardner, Peyton Dean, Jake Armogast, Braxton Alford, Ashton Walters, Carson Hunt; and front row from left:Savannah-Rose Fonville, EmilyThornton, Hope Bruner, Mason Fleming, Caleb Golden, Kory Nixon, Madison Davis and Laura Bailey. Austin Edwards and David Mimm were absent.

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Wetumpka Middle School Participates in Honor Band Thirty Wetumpka Middle School band members were selected to participate in the 2012 Elmore County Middle School Honor Band. The students were selected by audition from a large group of middle school musicians in Elmore County. The students are in 6th, 7th and 8th grades. The band rehearsed on April 27 with conductor Dr. Carla Gallahan of Troy University. They performed on April 28 at Wetumpka High School.

Participants from left front were: Mariah Hutchinson, Zena Banker, Crystal McNeil, Kate Saylor, Hannah James, Kelly Clifton, Allie Myrick, Sharee Riggs, Carli McCord, Hannah Geno, Rebekah Rankin, Morgan Shipp; middle: Sierra Conley, Holly McDaniel, Connor Daley, Justin Phillips, Jeremey Segars, Max Adam, Logan Bozeman, Katherine Pershing, Jordan Noel, Will Bright, Hannah Donovan; back: Will Oliver, Knox Healey, Austin Seward, Torii Chism, Phillip Maddox, Andrew Miller, April Desautels.

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

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STJ Alumnus Chosen for Modeling Event

Allison Lewis, a 2011 graduate of Saint James, is completing her freshman year at Regent’s College in London, England, and has been selected to model in the University Fashion Week benefiting charity. Lewis was selected among the students at Regent’s College through an interview process and submission of composite photographs which she had taken by Judy Barranco, Judy Barranco Photography. Lewis modeled for British designers Luxx of London, Vjera Vilicnik, and Henry Hunt. She also modeled for Ralph Lauren during the week-long event that began at the end of April. As written in the March 13th issue of People Magazine, the Queen of England invited Kate Middleton to join her at four royal events to kick off the monarch’s Jubilee tour with one being a university fashion show. It was in a 2002 University fashion show at the University of St Andrews in Scotland that Kate Middleton first caught the eye of Prince William.

Regent’s College London is the largest college of private higher education in Britain. The college has 4,000 students from more than 130 countries around the world.

Lewis will return in the fall as a sophomore majoring in International Business/Marketing with a minor in French. Her sister, Kelly Michelle Lewis, a 2007 graduate of St James and a 2011 graduate of the University of Alabama with a degree in Marketing and a minor in Graphic Design, will attend Regent’s College in the fall for an MBA in Global Business/Marketing. She is presently working as a marketing consultant at Hue Studio Inc. and interning with Cristen Bozeman at Reid/O’Donahue Advertising, Inc. The Lewises are the daughters of Dr. Allen and Debbie Dupre and granddaughters of Joe and Darlene Pearce. www.montgomeryparents.com

LA Eastwood Classes Make Paper

ECA Holds Annual Spring Sing

Evangel Christian Academy recently held its annual Spring Sing. Students from first through sixth grades participated in the event. The presentation showcased the elements of music the students had learned through out the year, their ability to read music and the instruments they had learned to play. All of the classes came together at the end and performed a musical score incorporating all of the components.

The 6th-grade hallway at Eastwood Christian School was heating up when students armed themselves with blow dryers and scrap paper pulp to make new pieces of paper. The students were studying environmental science and had a great time with this project.

Ancient Egyptians invented the first substance like the paper we know today called papyrus.

Papyrus scrolls were made by taking slices of the inner part of the papyrus stem, flattening then pounded into a hard, thin sheet. The word “paper” comes from the word “papyrus.” Pictured are Nolin Geiger, Cole Schlemmer, Hampton Bopp and Will Draper.

BrewTech Students Compete in State Conference

About 40 Brewbaker Technology Magnet High School Technology Student Association (TSA) students recently competed in the 33rd Annual Alabama TSA State Conference at the University of Alabama in Tuscaloosa. The students competed against top TSA students across the state and won four, first-place awards; three second-place awards, two third-place awards and 28 Top 10 awards. In addition, Kaitlyn Beans was elected Alabama TSA State vice president; Jesse Duncan, Alabama TSA State secretary; and Victoria Houlton, Alabama TSA Treasurer. The BrewTech TSA chapter, sponsored by teacher Steve Ballard, will also attend the 34rd Annual National TSA conference that will be held at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel in Nashville June 21-25.

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LAMP, Trinity Athletes Win Jimmy Hitchcock Awards

Sarah Kathryn “Skip” Portis from Trinity Presbyterian School was named the 2012 female Jimmy Hitchcock Award recipient and Lucas Tribble from Loveless Academic Magnet Program was named the 2012 male recipient on April 26 at the 53rd Jimmy Hitchcock annual program held at Frazer United Methodist Church. Portis and Tribble were two of 56 Montgomery County students who were nominees for the award that goes to senior athletes who exhibit outstanding Christian leadership.

Portis has a 4.27 grade-point average and was awarded merit and leadership scholarships from Covenant College in Lookout Mountain, Ga. She attends Morningview Baptist Church and is a member of Trinity’s varsity basketball, soccer, and cross-country teams, serving as captain of both the basketball and soccer varsity teams. As a cross-country competitor, she qualified for state her junior and senior years. As a senior, she had an extraordinarily strong soccer season and plans to continue playing soccer at Covenant College.

Tribble, who attends Aldersgate United Methodist Church, is a member of LAMP’s basketball and baseball teams. On the baseball field, Tribble plays first base and works as a reliever. He currently holds the program’s record for career saves. He carries a 4.19 grade-point average and will attend Auburn on a full academic scholarship. (photo courtesy of Lloyd Gallman/Montgomery Advertiser)

Mrs. Blankinship’s anatomy class at Success Unlimited Academy dissected beef meat/bone sections, chicken parts and frogs in their study of the skeletal system.

The students located the bones, removed the muscles, and examined the structure of different bones. They drew conclusions about their functions and broke them open to look at the marrow. Pictured are Desmond Reed and Aleena Jackson.

“Dissections are fun because you get to see what you’re learning instead of only reading about it. Mrs. Blankinship is a great teacher because she allows us the opportunity to perform multiple dissections as we continue through the semester,” said Desmond Reed.

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SUA Anatomy Students Dissect Skeletons

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www.montgomeryparents.com

MA Interpersonal Relations Students Honored

Holy Cross Produces ‘Much Ado’

The Holy Cross fifth grade performed Much Ado About Nothing for Kids for the student body and their families. This year’s production featured some new elements never attempted before in one of the Shakespeare productions, including the chicken dance!

It made for a wonderfully funny production which was flavored by this year’s fifth-grade group and director/teacher Connie MacDonald.

The students who participated in this year’s production were: Benjamin Wilke as Leonato, Maggie Cooner as Hero, Maddie Jarman as Beatrice, Rhys Holified as Antonio, Hanson Jacobs as Friar Francis, Jacob Rice as Dogberry, Jermaine Gross as Police Officer/Town Clerk, Gabriella Hernandez as Margaret, Mia Navidad as Ursula, Carter Chandler as Don Pedro, Tate Holifield as Don John, Austin Cato as Claudio, Bradley Westhauser as Benedick, and Jacob Holston as Borachio.

From left are Beatrice (Maddie Jarman), Leonato (Benjamin Wilke) and Hero (Maggie Cooner).

The MA Interpersonal Relations class nominated LaRonica Kelly and Nini Rasbett-Smith to represent them at the Outstanding Big Buddy Awards Luncheon hosted by YMCA. These two big buddies and their families attended the luncheon on April

18 at the Capital City Club.

In addition to representing the Interpersonal Relations class, Nini was asked to welcome everyone and to begin the program with an opening prayer. Kelly was also on the agenda to recognize the special guests in attendance. At the luncheon, she was presented the Jamie Gilliand Spirit Award by YMCA board member Lolita McLean. This award is presented to the student participating in the big buddy program who best represents the spirit of the Interpersonal ideals.

From left are Nini Rasbett-Smith, LaRonica Kelly and LaRonica’s little buddy.

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STJ Student Is Doodle 4 Google State Finalist

Reagan Briere, an STJ sixth-grader, is the Alabama finalist for the Grade 6-7 division in the Doodle 4 Google competition. The theme for this year’s competition was “If I could travel in time, I’d visit…”

Judging, conducted by Google employees, was based on: artistic merit and skill for the grade group; creativity (representation of the theme and use of the Google logo); and theme communication (how well the theme was expressed in the artwork and the supporting statement).

Student entries were divided into one of five grade groups (Grades K-3, 4-5; 6-7; 8-9; and 10-12), creating five state winners for each of the 50 states. Briere’s work was chosen from a total of 114,000 entries submitted from across the country. As a state finalist, the STJ sixth-grader will receive an official winner’s certificate and was featured on the Doodle 4 Google contest website beginning May 2.

Briere’s work will automatically be entered in the next level of competition in the Doodle 4 Google competition. Judges­­ including recording artist Katy Perry, “Phineas and Ferb” creator Jeff “Swampy” Marsh, and former American Idol winner Jordin Sparks - will select 50 individual state winners from the group of 250 state finalists. Five national finalists will be chosen from the group of 50. In the final event of the competition, one of the five national finalists will be named the “National Winner of Doodle 4 Google.” Their doodle was featured on the Google homepage on May 18 for 24 hours.

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East Memorial Names Beta Scholar

Tony Hammack has been named a Beta Scholar, which entitles him to a scholarship award of $1,000. Hammack, a senior at East Memorial Christian Academy, competed against more than 700 candidates nationwide for this honor. Two-hundred twentyone scholarship recipients were chosen. He was recommended for this award by the local Beta Club sponsors, Debbie Adams and Angie Dupree, and high school principal, Bryan Easley.

“This outstanding young person represents the true spirit of National Beta, having excelled not only academically, but in leadership and service to school and community as well,” said Ken Cline, executive director of the National Beta Club.

Hammack plans to attend the University of Mobile.

Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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MA Holds Spring Community Day

Holy Cross Fifth-Graders Become Teachers for a Day

What an unusual role reversal! The students in Holy Cross Episcopal School’s fifth-grade science class became the teachers for a day! The assignment was simple – create and present a science lesson for the class covering a topic which had not been previously covered during the school year.

Students literally had a ball! Austin Cato presented a lesson covering Sojourner’s Trip to Mars. During his lesson, he tossed a ball to class participants who were to answer the question. Everyone wanted to catch the ball and answer the question!

Maddie Jarman had fun with her favorite cookies – Oreos! Her lesson focused on the different phases of the moon, utilizing Oreos to show each phase. She even created a song to help the students remember the different phases correctly.

Bradley Westhauser presented a lesson on NASA’s Astronaut training. He created a word search exercise to accompany the lesson. The student who got the most answers correct was rewarded with Space Ice Cream. All of the other students were given Air Head candy!

Other students presented lessons on meteors, the International Space Station, satellites and the Saturn V rocket, to name a few.

Students were graded on content of the lesson, interest level of the lesson, and presentation, as well as providing a followup activity and visual aid.

Above, Benjamin Wilke shows his Space Station. www.montgomeryparents.com

April 19 was a day that saw Middle and Upper School Academy students and faculty engaged in helping our community. Upper School students volunteered at 26 various service organizations including Habitat for Humanity, the Salvation Army, M.A.N.E., Brantwood Children’s Home, the Family Sunshine Center, Camp Grandview and many more. Each student volunteered for three hours that morning, performing tasks assigned to them by each agency. Students helped out with a variety of assignments including bathing animals at the Montgomery and Prattville Humane Shelters, cleaning out the stables at MANE and playing with children at different schools and Headstart programs around Montgomery.

“I went to the Friendship Mission and helped cook meals for those in need,” said junior Mary Elizabeth Massey. “It was a great experience because we actually got to meet the people we were cooking for - it was really fulfilling to know that we were helping them in such an important way.”

Middle School students were involved in Spring Community Day through a variety of different activities right here on campus. Fifth- and sixth-grade classes participated by creating placemats for Meals on Wheels’ clients, making addition and subtraction notecards for Hackleburg Elementary and Adullam House and stringing bracelets for Child Protect, a child advocacy center. Seventh- and eighth-graders stuffed bags with pamphlets and children’s books for Gift of Life, made T-shirts for Brantwood Children’s Home, decorated pillowcases for the Family Sunshine Center and Baptist Hospice, cleaned Gazron Library, washed dogs to raise money for the Montgomery Humane Shelter and made neck warmers for Southeast Hospice residents. Middle School students also contributed through a clothing drive for Goodwill and collecting items for the Montgomery Humane Shelter such as shredded paper, hand sanitizer and printer paper.

“The difficult part about Community Day for the Middle School is finding different activities that the students can do on campus. Today, I think we had a good mix of activities and now these organizations will be familiar with our children as Upper School students,” said Teresa Pittman, Middle School Community Day Co-Chair.

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Trinity’s Van Hooser & Curles Win State Track Meet Trinity Presbyterian School senior Walker “Fudge” Van Hooser defended his title in the 100 meters at the AHSAA 3A state track and field meet on May 5 while also bringing home a win in the 200 meters.

The double-state champion ran the 100 in 10.94 at the meet at Memorial Stadium and crossed the line in the 200 in 22.25.

Trinity sophomore Wesley Curles won the 3,200 meters race on Saturday in 10:01.

Curles also had a second-place finish in the 1600 meters run and placed third in a close 800 meters race with a 2:02.54 time.

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Cornerstone Senior Earns Scholarship

Nathan Mims, a member of Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy’s 2012 graduating class, was recently honored as the recipient of a scholarship sponsored by Guardian Credit Union. In order to qualify for the scholarship, Mims’s academic record and his ability to write an essay were assessed. Mims has enrolled at AUM, where he plans to major in accounting.

Mims is the son of Gay and Donnie Mims, and he attends church at Evangel Temple.

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STJ K5 student Carter Hinton and his senior buddies Percy Shuford (seated) and Wyatt Edmondson (standing) ready their kite for some high-flying maneuvers in early April, when the twelfth-graders lent their wisdom and experience to the task of flying a kite with their kindergarten friend. Each month, Saint James School senior class members and their K5 buddies participate in an organized activity together, developing a bond and friendship that far outlasts the school year.

Four Alabama Christian Academy High School band students were on the Huntingdon College campus March 30–31, as Huntingdon’s Department of Music hosted their Symphonic Honor Band. The two-day Honor Band concluded with a combined performance by the band at 4:30 p.m. Saturday in the Roland Student Cente. The honor band attendees from ACA were Cameron Parham on trombone, Lindsay Grinstead on alto saxophone, Randal Porterfield on trombone, and Austin Singleton on trombone. Grinstead and Singleton were selected as first chair players in their respective sections. The Honor Band was directed

by Huntingdon’s director of bands, Eddy Williams, and assistant director, Adam Murphy.

From left, Cameron Parham, Lindsey Grinstead, Randal Porterfield and Austin Singleton are shown.

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ACA Senior Receives ROTC Scholarship

Alabama Christian Academy senior Phillip Smith received a $150,000 scholarship from the Marines to pay for his education through the ROTC program at Auburn University. Upon Smith’s graduation from Auburn, he will enter the Marines as an officer.

Victory Baptist School Sixth-Graders Field Trip

On April 25, the sixth-grade class from Victory Baptist School visited Tannehill State Park. We toured a museum that showed how iron was mined and manufactured into a variety of different products. Then we hiked through old wilderness trails and saw an area where mill workers were attacked by northern soldiers during the Civil War. After winding through the woods again, we found ourselves at the original furnaces where iron would be heated and melted. Next, we headed to the train and took a tour of the park. After a picnic lunch and quick wade in the freezing cold creek, it was time to load up the bus and head back to school.

Macon-East Students Visit Lanark

The second-graders at Macon-East Montgomery Academy enjoyed visiting the Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook. They participated in an “Aquatic Life Roundup,” a “Wetlands Hike” and clay sculpting. At the conclusion of the trip was a swim in Still Creek. The students look forward to returning next year!

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Holy Cross 6th Grade Visits Dauphin Island

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The Holy Cross Episcopal School sixth grade made their annual trek to Dauphin Island Sea Lab April 18-19. This annual science field trip allows the children to work with marine biologists to learn more about the fragile ecosystem found in the marshes around the island.

The students visited the Estuarium to learn about the plants, animals and fish which are a part of the ecosystem surrounding the island. They then proceeded to the marshes with one of the biologists to collect specimen samples. The students loved seining the waters with large nets to bring in various shrimp, crab, fish and other creatures. They discussed the important role each plays in the habitat and its survival.

The students then cleaned up, had dinner, and performed an evening chapel service on the beach to close a fun-filled day.

On the second day of their trip, the students took part in a touch lab and dissection exercise. The students discussed the parts of the squid which they would be viewing during the dissection. They then divided into pairs to work with a squid. “I thought the coolest part was actually writing with the ink from the ink sac,” said Hunter Broadfoot.

After the dissection lab, the students packed up and headed back home. In the classroom at Holy Cross, the students are using the information they gathered and learned to create individual Power Point presentations about the Sea Lab and their experiences.

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Eastwood Juniors Build Potato Cannons

The junior class at Eastwood Christian School continue a long-held tradition in the construction of potato cannons while studying the effects of pressure and temperature as related to gases. The experience this year was a little less than “exploding” as faulty igniters dampened the event and students’ spirits. It’s back to the drawing board on the ignition device but what fun in the meantime!

Shown with their potato guns are Leigh Ellen Morrison, Anna Grace Schlemmer, Jesse Jones, Margaret Anne Markwell, Cason McDermott and Grace Beaulieu.

www.montgomeryparents.com

Cornerstone Students Visit Williamsburg

SUA Health Students Visited by National Guard Mrs. Gwin’s health class at Success Unlimited Academy participated in a program that gives the latest facts on alcohol, drugs and tobacco usage. This program was presented by Sergeant Harris with the Army National Guard. The students not only heard the latest facts, but they also were allowed to wear vision goggles that showed them what an intoxicated person sees when they are under the influence.

Shown are Sgt. Harris and some of Mrs. Gwin’s students, Nickolas Faulkner, Jean Flournoy, Cordarrius Hill and Caleb Womack.

Sixth- and seventh-grade students from Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy culminated a two-year study in American history by visiting historic sites in Virginia during the first week of May. This week-long adventure took students to Jamestown, Williamsburg, Richmond, and Yorktown. The sites that the students visited encompassed many major events in America’s history, from the founding of the first English settlement, to the horrors of the holocaust of World War II. Sixth-grader Sarah Hardgrave said, “All the historical sites we went to were fun, but my favorite thing was probably the time we spent in Colonial Williamsburg.” The students were accompanied by teacher Mona Robinson, CCCA Principal Priscilla Stewart, and her husband, John.

Highland Gardens Gentlemen’s Club Teaches Life Skills

When school starts back next fall, the Highland Gardens Elementary Gentlemen’s Club will be ready. Keiven Mixson and Tyrone Peterson head up the club each year made up of students hand-picked by their teachers.The chosen guys get to dress up every Thursday and hear a speaker and have a nice lunch in a special location at the school.

These guys are taught proper manners, how to act out in public, how to carry themselves around school, and how to be a leader in the classroom. Mixson and Peterson teach the young men how to tie a tie, set goals and many other life lessons to help them grow from a child into a young gentleman. For more information, call Mixson at 300-1868.

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Board Explores Cost-Saving Options For Middle School Athletics

The Montgomery County Board of Education will explore a cost-saving option projected to save the district’s middle school athletics program more than $145,000 for the 2012-2013 school year. Superintendent Barbara Thompson and Assistant Superintendent for Instructional Support Lewis Washington outlined the benefits of the option during a special called board meeting, which included consolidating coaching positions, reducing transportation costs, making the student participation fee consistent across schools, and eliminating golf as a competitive sport. For the 2011-2012 year, the district spent more than $416,000 for salaries and benefits, transportation, equipment and supply costs associated with middle school athletics. Under the new option, 2012-2013 costs are projected at $271,523.

“We are considering reducing the number of soccer coaches by one, and would eliminate golf as a competitive sport, which would provide an annual savings of about $67,000,” said Washington. “We would still offer golf instruction as part of the physical education classes, and middle school students interested in golf would be given the option to ‘play-up’ on the high school level.” Washington said the option also includes a modest $15 increase in the student participation fee from $35 to $50. The move establishes a consistent student participation fee for athletics and is expected to generate $55,000 in additional revenue to support middle school athletics. The plan also requires coaches to become licensed to transport students to games and would change the start times for basketball and football contests.

“By changing game times and requiring our coaches to obtain a CDL license, we will reduce our transportation costs by $13,000 and eliminate the need for additional drivers,” he said. Superintendent Thompson said the option has additional benefits as well. “Scheduling the football games on Saturday mornings will hopefully attract more families and the community to our games. That keeps parents and the community involved and also helps generate additional revenue from ticket sales and concessions.” MPS currently receives $416,996 from the city of Montgomery to fund middle school athletics, but that funding is not guaranteed, said Thompson. She said school staff has worked very hard to find solutions that will keep middle school athletics viable. “For the past several months we’ve looked at a number of ways to sustain our middle school athletics while balancing our budget priorities,” added Thompson. “For now, this cost-saving option gives us the flexibility we’ll need in the event we lose funding or are faced with additional proration.”

EMCA Holds National Day of Prayer

National Day of Prayer was a time for East Memorial Christian Academy in Prattville to come together to pray for various issues and agencies within our country. Held on May 3, the prayer day focused student led prayer on the theme “One Nation Under God.” Scripture verses and prayers led by various students were said on the following topics: Government, Military, Media, Business, Education, Church, and Family.

It was especially important for our students, staff, and visitors to understand that the Lord is in control but we as a nation need to come to Him in reverent prayer.

The gathering also focused on the need to seek His will always, but especially during the stressful time of Presidential elections. East Memorial Christian Academy believes in the need to have our country, once again, under the power of our Lord.

Catholic’s O’Mara Chosen for AU Summer Institute

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School sophomore Madeleine “Maddie” O’Mara has been selected into the 2012 Summer Science Institute at Auburn University. O’Mara was one of 24 high school students selected from Alabama and Georgia.

As a participant in this elite educational program, she will participate in a number of experiences involving Auburn University’s unique faculty and state of the art facilities. She will work directly with professors to explore topics in biology, mathematics, physics, chemistry, and geology. Specific academic activities will include proton induced X-ray emission, polymer synthesis, DNA analysis, electron and proton microscopies, and isotope analysis. O’Mara will enjoy a week full of on-campus exciting science and mathematics related activities hosted by the College of Sciences and Mathematics Department of Outreach at Auburn University.

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

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SUA Seventh-Graders Become Historians

The seventh-grade class at Success Unlimited Academy celebrated Black History month with very creative, individual projects. Each student selected a famous black personality and wrote a one-page report. They also had to dress in character to represent their researched person. The class was visited by Bessie Springfield, Cathy Williams, Jesse Owens, Rosa Parks, Madame C.J. Walker, Michelle Obama, George Washington Carver, Maya Angelou and Martin Luther King. Pictured are Toni Russell, Harrison Leonard, Sarah Moody, Destiny Dillard, Kalyssa Boggs and Trinity Mays. www.montgomeryparents.com

EMCA Performs Annual Drama Class Spring Play

Academy Track Teams Break Records

The Montgomery Academy girls’ 4x800m relay team broke a 3A Alabama state record with the time of 10:09.18 at the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s Track and Field meet in Selma. The record-setting time was one second faster than the 2007 record set by Altamont High School. The relay team is comprised of sophomores Drake McGowin and Krisie Stakely, freshman Emily Pierce and junior Taylor Gerard. Gerard went on to win three more state titles in the 1600m run, 3200m run and 800m run. McGowin, a three time pole vault state champion, also tied the state pole vault record. Eighthgrader Kacky Starke and senior Audrey Wioka also medaled for the Lady Eagles.

The boys’ team took home second place finishes in the 4x100m relay with a time of 44.64 and the 4x400m relay team with a time of 3:34.48. Running on both relays were sophomores Justin Freeman and Justin Woolfolk, junior Drew Patterson and senior Julian Freeman.

The Montgomery Academy now holds 51 total state track and field event championships which is more than any high school in the Montgomery area.

Above from left are Emily Pierce, Taylor Gerard, Coach Weatherill, Drake McGowin and Krisie Stakely.

Below are (front row) Drew Patterson and Justin Woolfolk and (back row) Julian Freeman and Justin Freeman. www.montgomeryparents.com

The East Memorial Christian Academy drama class presented its annual spring play the weekend of April 27. This year the drama class performed the play “The Five Little Peppers and How They Grew,” a book series created by Margaret Sidney in the late 19th century. It is about the lives of five children of Mamsie and the late Mr. Pepper who are born into poverty in a rural area. The series begins with the Peppers in their native state and develops with their rescue by a wealthy gentleman who takes an interest in the family.

The cast was as follows (as shown in the picture from left): Mrs. Pepper (Abagail Waldron), Polly Pepper (Anna O’Neal), Davie Pepper (Annelise Baker), Joey Pepper (Tyler Burns), Ben Pepper (Cameron Christensen), Mr. King (Rob Ingenloff), Granny Bascom (Bronnie Arnold), Jasper King (Hayden Burns) and Phronsie Pepper (Kaylee Christensen).

MPS and AUM Team Up to Offer Chinese Courses

Montgomery Public Schools and Auburn University at Montgomery are joining hands to offer Mandarin language and Chinese culture courses to students in grades K-12. Offered at no cost to the school system, students at MacMillan International Academy and Carr Middle School will begin receiving instruction this fall. The program will expand into the new eastside high school when it opens its doors.

“Having Mandarin Chinese available for our students is an exciting opportunity,” said MPS Superintendent Barbara W. Thompson. “This allows our students to expand their world views and appreciate other cultures. Children learn languages best in their early years.”

Students will be exposed to a variety of cutting-edge instructional aids, including a magic reading pen, hands-on activities, and textbooks accompanied by audio recordings.

Parent information sessions and free Chinese classes for adults will be available to the families of children enrolled in participating schools. Once the high school component has been added, up to four high school students will be offered scholarships to study abroad at AUM’s sister university, Hubei University of Economics, in Wuhan, China.

All programming costs will be covered through AUM’s new partnership with the Confucius Institute. On March 23, 2012, Auburn Montgomery formalized its partnership with the Confucius Institute in Beijing. Confucius Institutes are non-profit public institutions aligned with the Chinese government aimed at promoting Chinese language and culture worldwide.

“We are incredibly proud to be able to establish the AUM Confucius Institute, and we consider our partnership with the Office of Chinese Language Council International one of this university’s highest honors,” said AUM Chancellor John Veres III. In addition, AUM will offer free Mandarin classes for children and adults this summer and fall.

Classes meet Saturdays starting May 26 and registration is open continuously to those ages 5 and older. To sign up, send the student’s name, age and contact information to April Ma at ama@ aum.edu.

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Trinity Wildcats Softball Team Wins Area Tournament

Trinity Wildcats Softball team defeated Lamp 13-3 to win the Area Tournament and advance to the Regional tournament.

Senior Kayla Hale was the winning pitcher in both of Trinity’s victories and was named “Tournament Most Valuable Player.”

Senior Claire Wilder was 6 for 9 and scored 4 times. Leeanne Phillips had 3 RBIs while Caroline Wilder was 4 for 6 with 3 stolen bases and 5 RBIs. Hale hit her 20th career homerun for Trinity in the first game of the tournament and added 3 RBIs. Dawson Williams had 4 hits while Emily Stone and Harrison Robertson each had 3 hits and an RBI. Regan Goocher added 3 RBIs. They played in the Regional tournament in Gulf Shores May 11-12 with a record of 30-14.

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Holy Cross Show Choir Spring Concert

The Holy Cross Episcopal School Show Choir did a phenomenal job with its Spring Concert. The show choir, comprised of 5th and 6th graders, constructed a show which presented favorite numbers from the hit TV show Glee and the favorite children’s Disney movie, The Princess and the Frog.

The Glee portion of the show presented facts about the show and its creation, along with several of the more famous remakes of songs. Songs included “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Lean On Me,” and “Somebody To Love.”

The Princess and the Frog portion of the show followed Tiana (Karli Day) and Price Naveen (Zachary Graves) as they are turned into frogs. They then search for a way to be returned to human form.

Along the way, they encounter a jazz-playing alligator named Louis (Hawthorne Ramsey), a Cajun firefly named Ray (Jack Mozingo), and a magic woman, Mama Odie (Mya Averett). The show ended with a New Orleans-style parade, complete with beads and Moon Pies!

After performing for the student body of Holy Cross, the show went on the road. The students performed at Elmcroft Assisted Living Facility and Oak Grove Assisted Living.

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Eastwood Students Take National Latin Exam

Students at Eastwood Christian School recently took the 2012 National Latin Exam. They joined 148,000 students from all 50 states and 13 foreign countries who also participated.

Awards in the listed categories were given to the following students: Introduction to Latin: seventh-graders MacKenzie Whatley and Savannah Cothran received a Certificate; Latin I: eighth-graders Katherine Golden, Anna Kometer and Caroline Hill earned Silver Maxima Cum Laude; Zach Fuller, Anna Payton Weaver and Jackson South earned Magna Cum Laude; and Rachel Foxx and Meggie Sellers earned Cum Laude; Latin II: ninth-grader Cody Harmon earned Gold Summa Cum Laude; Haley Hostetter, Julie McDaniel and Ellie Hodge earned Silver Maxima Cum Laude; Josiah Collins, Mary Kathryn Gillis, Allan Gulley and Baxter Hodge earned Magna Cum Laude; and Noah Verble, Sophia Minney and Suzanna Slawson earned Cum Laude; Latin III: 10th-grader Jack Harmon earned Gold Summa Cum Laude; Summer Collins and Taylor Foxx earned Magna Cum Laude; and Samantha Vick, Ben Bode and Molly Cooke earned Cum Laude.

www.montgomeryparents.com

ACA Holds 10th Annual Spring Benefit

Each year, Alabama Christian Academy holds a large fundraiser in order to obtain financial support for specific, major projects.

This year the Board of Trustees gave permission to raise money to buy new school buses.

Entertainment for the April 16 Spring Benefit was a professional entertainer named Mike Rayburn. Known as “the World’s Funniest Guitar Virtuoso,” Rayburn uses his astounding guitar creations, uproarious songs, and veteran presentation skills to encourage, challenge and inspire his audiences to leap beyond their perceived limitations. Rayburn draws from a wealth of life experiences as an adventurer, business owner, comedian, world-class guitarist, author, philanthropist, husband and father to deliver a presentation which is motivational, hilarious, and musically amazing! The evening was a tremendous success and Rayburn donated 10% of the sales of his books, CDs and DVDs to the school. The unveiling of one new bus took place on May 14.

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Academy’s HEART Club Named Volunteer of the Year

The Montgomery Academy HEART Club was recently selected as the 2012 River Region Volunteer of the Year in the Youth Group category by the Volunteer & Information Center and the Junior League of Montgomery.

HEART (Helping Eagles Are Right There) was chosen in recognition of its outstanding service and dedication to making a positive difference in the River Region community. The group was recognized along with other outstanding volunteers at the annual Volunteer Celebration on April 17. As winner of the award, a $200 donation was made in HEART’s name to the organization of choice, Brantwood Children’s Home.

HEART is sponsored by Denise Wentworth and Connie Johnson. HEART officers are: Cassie Price, president, Hendrick Adams, vice president, and Meredith Bear, treasurer.

From left are HEART sponsor Connie Johnson, Carter Goodwyn, Cassie Price, Hendrick Adams, Meredith Bear, Kim Herbert from Brantwood, and Upper School Director Cheryl McKiearnan

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PCA Helps at City E-cycling Event

Montgomery Clean City Commission recently hosted a special recycling event for the River region in recognition of Earth Week. On April 20, MCCC partnered with MAX Credit Union and Ecovery LLC to hold the city’s 11th electronics recycling event. Approximately 150 cars came through the Paterson Field parking lot to drop off unwanted electronics. More than 30 students from Prattville Christian Academy volunteered to unload old computers and electronic equipment from the cars. The event brought in 23,136 lbs. of e-scrap, which will be properly recycled as opposed to ending up in the landfill.

www.montgomeryparents.com

STJ’s Yost Receives Scholarship to The Citadel Saint James senior Austin Yost has received a four-year Army ROTC Scholarship to attend The Citadel, one of the nation’s six senior military academies. The scholarship will provide approximately $133,000 over the next four years. Upon completion of the program, Yost will serve an eight-year Army term of duty (four years active duty plus four years in a reserve unit, or a total of eight years in active duty service.)

Yost is an Eagle Scout and also a member of the Order of the Arrow, a Boy Scouts honor society. He played soccer during the ninth and eleventh grades, as well as his twelfth-grade year.

Austin is the son of Glenn and Susan Yost.

Evangel’s Track Team Receives Top Honors

Evangel Christian Academy’s track team finished the year with a successful season. The team recently participated in the state championship competition for the AISA school division. The boys’ track team placed 2nd in the state for the AISA 2A Division and is ranked 4th in the state among all of the AISA schools. Several of boys and girls on the team also placed individually. David Marable placed 2nd in 800 Meter Relay, 3rd in the 400 Meter Relay, and 6th in the 100 Meter Dash. Jay Grice finished 2nd in the 800 Meter Relay, 3rd in the 400 Meter Relay, 3rd in the 400 Meter Dash, and 6th in the High Jump. Jordan Sanders placed 2nd in the 800 Meter Relay, 3rd in the 400 Meter Relay, 5th in the 400 Meter Dash, 5th in the Long Jump, and 6th in the Triple Jump. James Thomas finished 2nd in the 800 Meter Relay, 3rd in the 400 Meter Relay, 2nd in the 100 Meter Dash, and 2nd in the 200 Meter Dash. Lonnie Washington placed 4th in the 800 Meter Run and Alexis Jones placed 5th in the 200 Meter Dash. Britney Johnson finished 5th in the 100 Meter Dash and 6th in the Long Jump.

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At Trinity, we believe our students are ready.

The seventy-three members of the Class of 2012 are ready to attend seventeen colleges and universities across the nation. Sixty-two percent of the class have earned merit based scholarships totaling over 3.4 million dollars.

We are proud of these graduates, and we are ready to see them lead the way.

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TrinityWildcats.com Contact Monica Lott 334.213.2137 Nondiscriminatory statement as to students: Trinity admits students of any race, color national and ethnic origins to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Trinity does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origins in any of the educational programs.

45 policies, scholarship programs and athletics, and other school-administered www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I June 2012

Catholic Science Olympiad Team Takes Third Place

STJ Names 2012-13 Cheer Squads

Saint James School has announced its cheer squads for the 2012-13 academic year.

Varsity cheerleaders selected for next year’s squad are: Sydney Brasfield, Deanna Bruner, Delaney Carter, Borden Cater, Abigail Dismuke, Bridgette Johnson, Countess Johnson, Carlee Naftel, Beth Oakley, Jordan Orender, Rachel Parks, Charlsie Rampy and Ashley Williamson.

Junior Varsity cheerleaders for 2012-13 are: Channing Alwan, Sadie Argo, Emma Matthews, Emma Moody, Lauren Parish, Gabbi Pohlman and Ramsey Webb.

The new squad of middle school cheerleaders for next year are: Sara Arrington, Mae Morgan Blankenship, Anna Claire Bullard, Emma Donaldson, Taylor Eubanks, Lindsey Holcombe, Maddy Grace Hunter, Grace Kirkland, Katie McIntyre, Mackenzie Montiel, Sailor Miles, Rachel Rampy, Hanah-Mathis Ray, Aaliyah Sims and Hannah White.

Varsity Squad cheerleaders are, above front from left, Deanna Bruner, Countess Johnson, Beth Oakley and Abigail Dismuke; middle, Borden Cater, Carlee Naftel, Sydney Brasfield and Charlsie Rampy; and back, Delaney Carter, Rachel Parks, Jordan Orender, Ashley Williamson and Bridgette Johnson. The Varsity cheerleaders will cheer for most varsity sports teams, beginning in August. www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s high school Science Olympiad team had its most successful contest at the Regional Competition hosted by Spring Hill College in Mobile. Montgomery Catholic was represented by 27 students who competed as two teams and succeeded in bringing home individual student medals in 12 of the events. Based on overall scores, Montgomery Catholic earned a third-place Team Trophy, as well as an invitation to enter a team for the State Science Olympiad Competition at Huntingdon College in Montgomery, a first for the Montgomery Catholic program.

Competing with twelve other teams from across Alabama at the State Science Olympiad Competition, Montgomery Catholic brought home its first-ever medals at the state level.

Zach Hulcher and Maddie O’Mara placed first in Dynamic Planet, earning both students $11,000 per year renewable scholarships to Huntingdon College. O’Mara and Leo Petters were also successful in placing fourth for their Robotic Arm. Montgomery Catholic’s high school Science Olympiad head coach Mary Kathryn O’Connor said this was the best performance for the high school team ever. “This was something our students have worked toward since the fall. Our teams prepared to compete in multiple events, with each student participating in at least two events and some competed in as many as four different events.

Our performances are the result of the hard work put in by our students, with the help of the entire science and math faculty who served as assistant coaches for the various competitions.

The students could not have been as successful without great parental support and encouragement as well.”

Science Olympiad is a national competition designed to encourage interest in a wide variety of scientific fields. Competitions involve both written and practical demonstrations and activities. Among the 23 events this year were Astronomy, Anatomy and Physiology, Forensic Science, Thermodynamics, and Water Quality. Among the “design and build” events were Helicopters, which required students to build a rubber bandpowered helicopter measured by duration of flight, and Towers, which involved building an efficient tower of balsa and basswood.

Science Olympiad team members Maddie O’Mara and Leo Petters are shown demonstrating their Robotic Arm at the State Science Olympiad competition at Huntingdon College.

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Trinity Eighth-Grader Is District VAAP Winner

Trinity Presbyterian School eighth-grader Aline Sluis is the 2012 District II Visual Arts Achievement Program (VAAP) winner. The Visual Arts Achievement Program provides local and state recognition for student achievement in the visual arts. The program is designed to offer encouragement to young artists, showcase their work and offer opportunities for advanced training beyond high school.

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SUA Students Study American Authors

Mrs. Royal’s junior and senior classes at Success Unlimited Academy have been studying various American authors from the 18th century to today’s modern authors. Each student was asked to research biographical information about the author as well as their literary contributions. Beyond learning about the author’s life and work, the students surveyed classic pieces from the author’s notable works. After completing their research, the students prepared visual aids and oral presentations to deliver to their classmates. At the completion of the project the students had been introduced to at least 46 various authors whose works span over three centuries.

Alabama Christian Academy’s annual Miss Montala Pageant 2012 was held on April 28 this year. The theme, decided by the Montala Yearbook staff, was “Broadway.”

This year, the walls were painted with the New York skyline; other stage decorations consisted of a Broadway sign and the archway that the girls would walk through for the night, which was black, white and grey with red stars. The Yearbook staff put a great amount of hard work into the stage the Friday before the Miss Montala Pageant.

The 27 contestants were required to have a five-minute interview with the judges before the pageant, an on-stage introduction, and the casual and formal portion of the pageant. At the end of the night, the three judges had made their decision for Top Ten, each category winner, first, second, and third runner-up, and Miss Montala 2012.

Top Ten, in no specific order, is as follows: Sabrina Lee, Caroline Camp, Lana Leary, Dynasty McKnight, Alex Ashcraft, Emma Armstrong, Brittnei Scott, Brandi Dawkins, Allie Little, and Hollon Beasley. Miss Congeniality and People’s Choice is Maggie Mitchell, Top Interview Score is Brandi Dawkins, Casual Wear Winner is Alex Ashcraft, and Formal Wear Winner is Lana Leary. For the Miss Montala Court, third runner-up is Lana Leary, second runner-up is Alex Ashcraft, first runner-up is Hollon Beasley and Miss Montala 2012 is Allie Little.

From left are Alex Ashcraft, Lana Leary, Allie Little and Hollon Beasley.

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STJ’s Varghese Wins City’s ‘Outstanding Big Buddy Award’

Saint James School’s Kevin Varghese won the citywide YMCA Alisa Roberts Second Mile Award as the city of Montgomery’s Most Outstanding Big Buddy for his work with his “little buddies,” students at area public schools with whom Varghese was paired as a mentor. The award is given to the Big Buddy who goes the “second mile” for their little buddies and to the individual who has gained the respect of their peers and adults. This year 60 Big Buddies from local high schools mentored little buddies from the Montgomery Public School system. The award, presented on April 18, marked the culmination of the Interpersonal Relations/Youth Leadership class, sponsored at a variety of area schools by the YMCA of Montgomery.

Presenters said Varghese was chosen because of his distinguished leadership and service to peers and his little buddies in the IPRYL program. Varghese had two little buddies that he mentored and assisted throughout the year as part of the interpersonal relations and leadership class. The selection committee (six Britton YMCA Board Members) said they were very impressed with Kevin’s positive attitude, determination, and flexibility.

Nominees for the award come from a variety of area schools sponsoring an IPRYL class in their curriculum. Senior Madeline Pendley, another outstanding IPRYL Big Buddy, was also nominated from Saint James School.

Kevin Varghese is shown here with Susie Strong, Britton YMCA board member.

He is the son of Jogy and Linda Varghese.

East Memorial Holds Sports Awards Banquet

The East Memorial Christian Academy Wildcats held their 2011-2012 All Sports Awards Banquet the evening of May 3. During the awards ceremony, a total of 36 individual awards were presented for the following: 2011 EMCA Football Most Valuable Offensive Player: Timmy Moore; Most Valuable Defensive Player: Jaylen McCoy; Head Hunter Award: DaShun Bartley; Most Improved: Sam Jones; Christian Leadership Award: Tony Hammack; and Coaches Award: Sam Jones.

2011 EMCA Volleyball Most Valuable Offensive Player: Meghan Payne; Most Valuable Defensive Player: Krissy DeLong; Most Improved: Bailey Clements (V) / Hannah Allen (JV); and Christian Leadership Award: Lynlee Tobias.

Trinity Entrepreneurs Sell Their Products

Trinity Presbyterian School third-graders completed their social studies unit on economics with a “Market Day.” After learning about producers, consumers, products, profit/loss, and supply & demand, the students created products to sell at the market.

Each student had the option to work individually or with a partner. They researched their product to determine the supply and demand needs as well as how much to charge. Students created business cards and fliers advertising their products using MacBooks during computer class.

After designing and making their products, the students brought them to school to sell at “Market Day.” There were bracelets, marshmallow shooters, painted rocks, edible dirt with worms, cookies, bookmarks, cupcakes, cardboard paintings, and even cootie catchers! The students used class money called “Star Bucks” that they earned for good behavior to purchase the goods. The Upper School Forensics class helped the third-graders produce commercials to advertise their merchandise. These videos were played on the classroom Smart Boards during “Market Day.” From left, creators of “B & MD’s Awesome Art,” entrepreneurs Mary Davis Bricken and Bentley Moore display their paintings to sell during “Market Day.” Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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2011-2012 EMCA Boys Basketball Most Valuable Offensive Player: Jaylen McCoy (V) / Joey Musiol (JV); Most Valuable Defensive Player: James Pope (V); Most Improved: DaShun Bartley (V) / Noah Baker (JV); Christian Leadership Award: Tony Hammack (V); and Coaches Award: James Pope (V) / Aaron Watkins (JV).

2011-2012 EMCA Girls Basketball Most Valuable Offensive Player: Katie Sanders (V); Most Valuable Defensive Player: Krissy DeLong (V); Most Improved: Katelyn Simpkins (V) / Morgan Renfroe (JV); and Christian Leadership Award: Bethany Arnold / Layton Warren (JV).

2012 EMCA Baseball Hitting Award: Tyler Desselle; Gold Glove Award: Johnny Moore; Most Improved: Sam Jones (V) / Victor Calloway (JV); Coaches Award: Storm Richardson (V) / Logan Doster (JV). 2012 EMCA Softball Most Valuable Offensive Player: Kasie Wright; Most Valuable Defensive Player: Kady Olgesby; Most Improved: Hannah Aldridge (V) / Ashley Otwell (JV); and Christian Leadership Award: Morgan Amason www.montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Catholic Announces Leadership at New Holy Spirit Campus Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School announces the leadership team for its new Holy Spirit Elementary Campus opening in August.

“The leadership team approach is a wonderful opportunity to draw upon the experience and knowledge of professionals from each of our campuses as we open our newest location,” said Anne Ceasar, president of Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School. “We are grateful to the Holy Spirit Catholic Church parishioners for their support of Montgomery Catholic and for the use of this beautiful facility.” The building will also serve religious education, faith formation, and parish meeting needs.

For the new Holy Spirit Elementary Campus, School President Anne Ceasar will oversee the daily operations, Reverend Patrick Driscoll, pastor of Holy Spirit Catholic Church, will serve as spiritual leader, and Laurie Gulley, St. Bede El-

ementary Campus principal, will serve as an elementary consultant for the Holy Spirit Campus. Ken Klinger will be the assistant athletic director in charge of athletic programs at both elementary campuses as well as the physical education instructor at Holy Spirit, and Mary Kelley will serve as the school counselor at Holy Spirit.

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School has three additional campuses in the Montgomery area: St. Bede Elementary Campus, K4 through sixth grade, located at 3850 Atlanta Highway; Middle School Campus, seventh and eighth grades, and High School Campus, ninth through twelfth grades, both located at 5350 Vaughn Road.

The new elementary campus at Holy Spirit Catholic

Church will open in August for students in four-year-old kindergarten through sixth grade. Montgomery Catholic is currently accepting applications at all campuses for the 2012-2013 school year. For more information, please call (334) 272-7221, extension 32 or visit www.montgomerycatholic.org.

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books to the Hackleburg library. As admission to their fall dance, middle school students were asked to contribute books and they were delivered to the school in October. Finally, our Upper School contributed to the cause by raising money to pay for the DJ for the Hackleburg High School prom this spring.

Additionally, students have sent snacks and cards to the students in Hackleburg for both Valentine’s Day and Halloween and teachers have sent supplies and equipment throughout the year. For Community Day this past month, Middle School students brought in more materials for Hackleburg students and also made multiplication flashcards to send to the school.

Through its projects, HEART has also collected money that will go to assist other specific needs for the school. The team plans to send representatives to Hackleburg to present a check, gifts and supplies in the coming weeks.

Shown, Lower School students participated in the Fall Sharing project that raised money for Hackleburg Elementary.

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After last year’s tornadoes, The Montgomery Academy formed a Tornado Relief Effort Team to partner with a school in an affected area. Made up of students and teachers, and spearheaded by faculty members Teresa Pittman and Denise Wentworth, the team solidified a partnership last July with Hackleburg Elementary and High School. This fall, a group of students and teachers made their first trip to Hackleburg to deliver school supplies that had been collected from teachers at the Academy.

Over the past school year, The Montgomery Academy has supported the Hackleburg schools in many ways, with each division focusing on a different area. In November, the Lower School collected money through their Fall Sharing Project for the Hackleburg Elementary playground. A group of teachers and lower school students traveled to Hackleburg in December and presented a check as well as a poster with signatures from all the students who donated to the cause. The Academy’s Middle School focused their efforts on adding

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Holy Cross First Grade Visits Nature Center at Lanark

Holy Cross Episcopal School firstgraders enjoyed a wonderful spring day at the Lanark Nature Center. The students spent the day exploring the areas of the nature center, as well as fishing and having a picnic lunch.

The students were able to feel and touch animal skins such as bear, deer, skunk, and fox. They learned about which animals were plant-eaters and meat-eaters.

As they proceeded on a hilltop hike, they learned about different plants along the way. They also were able to view insects such as spiders in their natural environment.

When the students went fishing, they baited their own hooks with cut-up hot dogs. Some of the students caught catfish, while others caught small bream.

Shown, Gerrod Green holds a corn snake and seems to be enjoying it!

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

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Babes at the Beach

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Whether you are heading to the lake’s shore, the ocean’s edge or a pretend beach in the middle of the bedroom, getting the best gear for this year’s beach excursion (real or imagined) is top of the list! From the sensible needs of sun-protection and safety gear to the must-have playthings that kids can take to the coast (or the toys that take kids to the shores of imagination), the start of summer is all about sun, surf and seashore fun – and getting whirled away to a world away by the ocean!

by Paige Gardner Smith

Puddle Jumper Deluxe Life Jacket

Green Toys Sand Set (Green Toys)

The most basic necessity for beach play is clearly a good bucket and tools for shaping, shifting and schlepping sand around!

Kids know that sand isn’t doing any good where it lies. It must be scooped and carried, smoothed when it’s rough, piled up (or dug into) when it’s flat, but most definitely it must be rearranged. Skip the flimsy imitations and try Green Toys simple bucket and tool set (including shovel, rake and mold). Sturdily designed and crafted from phthalate/ BPA-free materials recycled from curbside milk containers, this sand set is the top choice for long-lasting beach play and good green fun!

(Stearns)

For young pre-swimmers, bulky, chafing flotation devices can be a real let-down in the water. The Puddle Jumper Life Jacket features stabilizing arm pieces connecting to a chest piece for more free motion in the water, allowing children to move with more swim-like motions as a step toward learning. More comfortable than the traditional ‘neck-wrapper’ life jacket, the Puddle Jumper is also covered with a soft, slicker fabric for less chafing. Colorful designs round out the appeal to kids who can now enjoy more flexible freedom with their flotation devices in the water!

Pin Y Pon Beach Campervan

Lil’ Nursery Tent (Pacific Play)

Sunscreen at the shore is a must, especially for the littlest ones with tender skin. But added protection from direct sun and wind is best for infants visiting the beach. The Lil Nursery Tent is a light-weight, easily assembled environment for babes at the beach that features UV treated fabric for shade and sidemesh panels that can be directed to maximize or minimize air flow through the tent. A roll-down mesh door with Velcro closure keeps toys and tots inside for sleep and quiet play. Portable with its own carry bag and easily cleaned with a damp cloth, the Lil Nursery Tent offers the extra protection from sun and wind that babies need at the beach.

(Pinypon)

You don’t have to go all the way to the seashore to have fun at the pretendplay beach! Pinypon’s Beach Campervan comes complete with everything a wee doll needs to land on the sand in style! Featuring a Pinypon doll (which changes expressions with a twist of the head), her interchangeable hair and clothes can also swap with other Pinypon dolls. The camper van is full of surprises, too, including a roof that changes into a boat with slide, a little swimming pool, camping table, surfboards and lots of accessories that make Pinypon the customizable hit toy among young girls. Everything packs up neat and handy in the campervan afterwards until the sea calls ‘Back to the beach!’

Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Hot Summer Days

Get Cool...With Water Fun!

by Pam Melyan-Bratton

You don’t need to have a swimming pool in your backyard to have some cool summer fun. When days get hot, all you need is some creativity and the willingness to get wet. Family members of all ages can enjoy the hazy – and not so lazy - days of summer while getting active and staying cool. Set up the following games in different areas of your yard and rotate through them for an afternoon of fun, or just pick a few to enjoy in the sunshine.

Sprinkler Sprints

Think back to when you were a kid.

A sprinkler on the lawn provided hours of entertainment. Hook up the sprinkler to your hose and race through the man-made sun showers. Divide your group into teams for some competition: Time that sprinkler just right to see who can make it through without getting wet. The team that loses has to stand under the sprinkler until they are soaked!

Bring Back the Balloons

Another oldie but goody for water fun is water balloons! Before you start, fill up as many water balloons as possible and keep them in a cooler or large container so your supply is ready to go. www.montgomeryparents.com

Balloon Battle

Set up barriers and blockades in the backyard like patio chairs, side tables – anything to hide behind. On “Go!” everyone runs around, throws water balloons, and hides behind the blockades to keep from getting wet.

Water Balloon Toss

A water balloon toss is also fun, especially with younger children. Partner up and stand a few feet away from your partner facing each other. Toss the water balloon. If the balloon doesn’t break, walk a little farther apart. Keep going until one set of partners remains with their water balloon unbroken.

Over Under

Line up your entire group standing one behind the other with their legs shoulder width apart. Use a really full balloon for this game so that it is fragile and just ready to burst. Give the first person in the line the balloon. The first person bends down and reaches through her legs to give the balloon to the person behind her. The 2nd person reaches for the balloon then hands it to the 3rd person over her head. The balloon goes “over under” all the way down the line until it bursts. Here’s the catch: You will want to 56

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be the person who gets wet by the bursted balloon. Why? Because you will get to hose down everyone else at the end of the game!

Limbo Star

Use the hose to spray a direct line of water to use as your “limbo stick.” One person holds the hose and the others line up to go under the spray of water. Let the water spray start high and then bring it down lower as everyone gets a turn. How low can you go and how wet can you get?

Target Practice

Use the side of your house for target practice with water shooters. Create targets with different colored painter’s tape and assign points to the various targets. Divide the players into teams and keep track of the points. Play up to a certain amount of points.

At the end, the losing team has to line up while the winning team takes aim and soaks the losing team.

Fill ‘Er Up!

For this game all you need are some supersized sponges, a few buckets and, of course, water. Divide your group into teams.

Each team gets one sponge and two buckets.

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Buckets O’Fun

teams. Someone on each team should keep score because the winning team will have This is another game that requires Looking for some other wet the opportunity to dump the buckets over the two or three buckets per team, and a ways to stay cool this summer? few small foam, cloth-covered squishy losing teams’ heads at the end of the game!

• Break out the buckets, suds and sponges After everyone has laughed and played, balls that can get soaked with water. relax in the sunshine and take a break in a and have a family car wash. Get everyone Divide your group into teams. Each kiddie pool or team lines to work while having fun and getting wet! two. Plastic • Use buckets of water and paintbrushes to up facing Summer Tunes Top Off the Fun or inflatable their buckets. “paint the driveway.”

Add a Summer Tunes Soundtrack and make it pools can be The two or • Have a Toy Wash! This one is great for purchased for a party! Invite some friends over to enjoy the three buckets the little ones. Gather small plastic toys should games and heat the party up with these songs: $10 or less at and fill a large plastic container with wamany stores. be placed • Hot, Hot, Hot – Buster Poindexter Little ones ter. Keep the kids cool while getting wet several feet • Walking on Sunshine – Katrina and the Waves can conin front of and getting a little housework done, too!

• Surfin’ Safarai – The Beach Boys tinue to romp each team • On those days when it is just too hot to • Summertime – DJ Jazzy Jeff & The Fresh Prince around and member, be outside, bring the pool party inside.

• Summer Nights – Olivia Newton-John & John splash, and depending Fill up the bathtub, play some summer bigger kids on the ages Travolta tunes, lay down some beach towels in the and adults and abili• Wipeout – The Surfaris bathroom and let the kids splash in the tub ties of the can lounge • California Girls – The Beach Boys in them. in their bathing suits. teams. The • Summer of ’69 – Bryan Adams Throw some bucket that beach towels is closest to across the yard. Each person will dip their down on the the team will score the team fewer points sponge into the bucket of water to soak the grass and enjoy some summer snacks like than the bucket that is farthest away from sponge. They will then run to their team’s watermelon and ice pops. Serve up some the team. Assign points to the buckets – the empty bucket, squeeze all the water into that lemonade and give a toast to summer! mp bucket that is closest is one point, the next bucket, and run back to the next player on farthest bucket is five points, etc. Players their team to start again. The first team to fill Pam Melyan-Bratton is a freelance writer, mom and take turns throwing their water-soaked foam their empty bucket wins! teacher. balls into the buckets to gain points for their

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Beloved Queen or Despised Dictator?

by The FlyLady, Marla Cilley

Which are you? Beloved Queen or Despised DICTATOR! The tone of your voice says it all!

Why do we torture our family with hurtful words? I can tell you why. You are so stressed out and feeling like a martyr.

This has got to stop! I can help you get rid of the stress, but it is up to you to curb those angry words. Once you change your martyred outlook to one of blessing your family and giving teaching moments, you will see a change in them. It is by your example that your family will begin to help and support your efforts to secure a peaceful home.

What does your wicked tongue do to your children, your husband and you?

1. It doesn’t tell them you love them.

2. It makes them feel less than, it hurts their self-worth.

3. They feel that they have no say in things.

4. It makes your husband feel that he is married to his mother! I don’t even want to go there.

5. They feel like servants instead of family members.

6. Harsh words are worse than a whipping.

7. Your family cuts themselves out of the conversational loop because they fear retribution.

8. Home life is based on the fear of not making mother mad.

9. Family members go hide from you.

10. They become afraid to tell you when something happens.

After those words have come from your lips, just how do you feel then...laden with guilt or do you not even realize you are barking nasty remarks their way? Have you become oblivious to the torture you have inflicted upon your loved ones?

There is absolutely no excuse for this.

I don’t want to hear that this is the only way you can get your family to do anything. This is the lie that you tell yourself to not feel guilty.

Your tongue can criticize or it can encourage. The choice is all yours. If you have not changed your attitude, then how can you expect to see a change in them?

It has to come from the heart. If not they will see right through you. They may not even believe it at first, because you will not be sounding like the mother they have been used to all their lives. The children may think the aliens have taken their real mother away. Prove to them and their father that you have changed. Sprinkle your words of love, encouragement and teaching all over your home. Apologize for your tongue. Don’t play the martyr game anymore. I want you to FLY without the guilt of harsh words holding you down.

For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, check out her website at www.FlyLady.net or her book, Sink Reflections, published by Random House, and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2012 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.

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A Bark in the New Dog Park As the River Region is set to open its new dog park this summer, there are many tails wagging in anticipation. These tails are wagging for a reason, as there are many advantages to having a place for dogs to roam free and exercise. Unfortunately, pet owners who do not enroll their pet in a daily doggieday-care program must go to work or school leaving their pet to spend the majority of his/ her time alone at home, napping with little if any exercise. Its not surprising that many pets left at home often come up with fun activities on their own. However, unstuffed couches, raided trash cans, and gnawed shoes are not the welcome home gift pet owners are looking for at the end of a busy day. Therefore, to keep your dog happy, healthy and out of trouble, finding ways to exercise your pet’s brain and body are important. If your pet enjoys company of his/her own kind, visiting the dog park could be an activity you should try and work into your schedule. There are several advantages to visiting: PHYSICAL AND MENTAL EXERCISE: In most dog parks, pets are free to roam without a leash. This gives them opportunity to investigate their surroundings without the constraints. Running at full speed, investigating new smells, and tussling with other dog buddies will mentally and physically exhaust pets promoting a good night’s sleep.

OPPORTUNITIES TO PRACTICE SOCIAL SKILLS: Dogs are highly social animals. Unfortunately, many dogs do not get an opportunity to use social skills. At dog parks, however, they are given opportunities to practice reading a variety of other dogs’ body languages, as well as, practicing using their own communication skills. Dog parks also allow pets to meet unfamiliar dogs on a frequent basis. This practice hopefully will prevent the development of fear and aggression around other dogs.

Like any great activity that is fun, there are always a few downsides that need to be addressed before you load up your furry friend.

HEALTH RISKS: Most healthy vaccinated dogs are at low risk of becoming ill as a result of visiting a dog park. However, their are health risks any time your dog interacts with other dogs, especially if dogs visiting the park have not been given vaccinations or are not up to date on vaccinations before they come to play. All pet owners should talk with their veterinarian about the need for current Bordetella (kennel cough), Rabies, Distemper, Parvo Virus, Parainfluenza, Adeno Virus Type II, Leptospira Virus, and Influenza before their pet visits the park.

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ACCIDENTS: Although tussles with other dogs are fun and invigorating, pet owners do need to be aware that intense playing could easily lead to a dog fight with injuries.

Being aware of your dog’s activities is key to breaking up intense tussles. Therefore, pet owners should be aware of what their pet is doing at all times.

DOG PROBLEMS: For some dogs, especially those who are shy or easily overwhelmed, a visit to a dog park can be stressful. It is very important for dog owners to make sure their pet has a pleasant visit by being in control of situations that may be frightening to him or her.

FLEA and TICK PROBLEMS: In the South, it is a given, fleas and ticks are in our environment. Making sure your pet is protected from these parasites is important.

Pet owners should consult with their veterinarian about possible options to protect their pets against these pesky pests.

HUMAN PROBLEMS: Everyone has a different perspective, and some people have strong opinions about dog behavior. Pet parents do not always agree about what is normal dog behavior, what is acceptable during play, what kind of behavior is aggressive, which dog behaviors are obnoxious, whether

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or not one dog is bullying another or who is at fault in an altercation. Knowing that differences in opinions could exist and how you will handle these difference if they arise could save you from being “snapped” at by another dog owner.

Dog parks can offer exercise options for many pet owners who must leave their dogs home alone during the day. Exercise, socialization and mental stimulation are just a few benefits pets will receive from a visit to the River Region’s new dog park. Risks are always present, but as long as pet owners are fully aware of the problems that could arise and how to address these problems, owners and their pets can enjoy a great experience at the dog park.

Contributed by Dr. Phil Mitchell of Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital.

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A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

Visiting Camp Whatcha-Needa-Read One of the most memorable childhood rites of passage is the experience of ‘going to camp’. The excitement of trying new things like archery, paddle-boating, rope-climbing, trail-craft… and s’mores heighten the anticipation for the camp experience. For many kids it will be their first time away from home and family, so fears of the unfamiliar can also rise up as the departure date approaches. Perfect for tucking in the sleeping bag before heading out for the big adventure, the following titles explore the dynamics of summer camp in charming ways that both prepare first-time and entertain veteran young campers!

Camp K-9

by Mary Ann Rodman, Illustrated Nancy Hayashi (Peachtree) Part of the camp experience is learning to navigate new social dynamics. The mix of children at camp is typically different from the known quantity of classmates and neighbors. Rivalries can sprout alongside new friendships blooming at camp. When Roxie heads off to Camp K-9 (with her security blanket hidden in her pup pouch) she and her fellow campers quickly discover that Lacy is the most difficult camp-mate to deal with. She’s rude, pushy and close to ruining the week for everyone. But when Roxie discovers a secret that Lacy is trying to hide – the chance to turn an enemy into a friend emerges. Camp K-9 is a sweet preparation for young campers about the challenges of making new friends and the rewards that follow when you reach out to someone struggling to make friends.

Tacky Goes to Camp

by Helen Lester, Illustrated by Lynn Munsinger (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Summer camp in the Antarctic is still a chilly affair at best, but an intrepid group of young perfectly packed penguins are ready to enjoy everything camp has to offer. And then, there’s Tacky.

Definitely marching to the beat of a different drummer, Tacky takes everything from arts & crafts to canoeing to a new level of messy chaos with his boisterous, eccentric individuality. Unlike his orderly, organized penguin counterparts, it seems that Tacky doesn’t contribute much to the camp team efforts until an unexpected campfire tale comes to life and only Tacky’s talent for trouble may save the expedition!

A Couple of Boys Have the Best Week Ever

by Marla Frazee (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) In this Caldecott Honors award-winning title from Marla Frazee, ‘A Couple of Boys Have the Best Week Ever’ shares the story of two boys spending a week away from home with grandparents at the shore, while they attend camp during the days. The literal story of their daily adventures (day-camping and grandparent pampering) is balanced by the ‘real’ story told in the illustrations and captions. Delightful with its celebration of the simplest pleasures of spending a week with a friend, of being wonderfully spoiled by grandparents, and of getting away from home for a while, this book is a sure hit for kids heading to camp or simply spending a week away from home for summer adventure!

Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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KIDS/YOUTH

RegisteR eaRly! Class size is limited!

SeSSion 1: June 11-29 SeSSion 2: July 9-27

SKYCAP COLLEGE ADVENTURE PROGRAM

Alabama State University offers this unique opportunity for elementary through high school students to learn, grow and have fun over the summer! Choose from classes in Academics, the Arts, Personal Computing, Sports and Recreation and more.

Register online at www.alasu.edu/continuingeducation or call 334-229-4686 for additional information.

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Annual Flag Boat Parade Wednesday, July 4, beginning at 10 a.m. at Kowaliga Marina on Lake Martin. Boats of all sizes parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor and back. Onlookers from the shoreline and water can watch free of charge. Boat registration is due by July 1. Forms can be picked up at any Russell Marine location - Kowaliga, Real Island, The Ridge and River North.

For out-of-towners, call 334-857-2111 to request a form. Registration is free.

Prattville Celebration 2012 Schedule of Events Annual 4th of July Parade On Wednesday, July 4th at 9am, family members of all ages will enjoy the fire engines, candy, floats and more. This years Grand Marshals are the Korean War Veterans. Bring your lawn chair and set up early for a good spot along the parade route. The one mile route goes through downtown and ends at Pratt Park. Roads will be closed during the parade.

For more information, call 358-0297.

Annual Lion’s Club BBQ & Cardboard Boat Races After the parade, join the fun at the annual Lion’s Club BBQ and Camp Stew Sale at Pratt Park. Music, a patriotic program, a children’s fun area and lots of arts and crafts. 10am-3pm. Free admission. Call 358-1068 for info. The annual Cardboard Boat Races begin at 10am, with teams www.montgomeryparents.com

creating their competition boats out of cardboard and duct tape. Prizes include: Longest floating boat, the Titanic award for most dramatic sink, Most Creative and more. For information, call the Dept. of Leisure Services at 361-3640.

Severe Weather and Fire Safety Training The Prattville Fire Department will have their Life Safety Trailer on display at Pratt Park from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Bring your children by to learn important safety tips through hands-on activities. Children will learn what to do in case of a fire, severe weather, and more.

Fireworks Presentation Get ready for lots of “oohs” and “aahs”, as the spectacular fireworks display begins at dark, at Stanley-Jensen Stadium. Come early and get a great seat or bring your own lawn chair. No pets, alcoholic beverages or glass containers allowed. Gates open at 6pm. Enjoy food and beverage vendors, patriotic program by the Prattville Pops and Community Chorus. Free.

Volunteers needed. It takes a lot of volunteers to make this event happen. Great for youth and adult community service organizations. Call 358-0297 for more info. Visit www.prattvilleal.gov for m ore inform

Russell Lands Fourth of July Fireworks and Celebration Lake Martin Amphitheater will host a night of music and fireworks on Wednes62

day, July 4, beginning at 5 p.m.

Featuring Musical Artist Nation Wide Coverage with special guest Eat A Peach. Show starts at 7:00 p.m. and fireworks will being at 9 p.m. (This is one of the Southeast’s largest fireworks show.) Children’s activities will be conducted by Children’s Harbor throughout the evening. The fireworks show is free (from an open field adjacent to the amphitheater or by boat), but for the best seat in the house and to enjoy the musical entertainment, tickets are available at the gate or through ticket master, with children under 6 free. Proceeds benefit Lake Martin area charities. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics.

Concessions are also available.

The Lake Martin Amphitheater is located on Highway 63 about 1 mile south of Kowaliga Bridge. For more information call (256) 212-1379 or visit www.lmat.org.

2012 Fourth of July Riverfront Celebration

Wednesday, July 4 Gates open at 5 p.m. Live Entertainment, Food Vendors, Children’s Activities and Fireworks Cruise on the Harriott II Immediately following the Biscuits Baseball 6:05 p.m. ballgame there will be a MAX Fireworks Spectacular. www.montgomeryal.gov Please visit www.funontheriver.net or call 334-241-2726 or 334-354-6313.

Callaway Gardens July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party

The celebration begins early and lasts into the night at our annual July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party. We celebrate Independence Day with a day of pure fun. So pack a picnic and sunscreen, round up your friends and family, and head to Callaway Gardens for a spectacular fourth of July!

Admission to the Star Spangled Beach Party includes admission to all attractions within Callaway Gardens including the Day Butterfly Center, Callaway Discovery Center, Sibley Horticultural Center, Live Birds of Prey Shows, our many walking trails and our 10-mile Discovery Bicycle Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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Trail. Garden attractions close at 6 p.m.

Please refer to your July Calendar and Map for a complete listing of activities around the Gardens.

July 4th admission is $25/adult; $12.50/ child age 6-12; Children five and younger are admitted for free. Tax is included.

Admission includes access To the gardens attractions from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and the Star Spangled Beach Party festivities at Robin Lake from 9 a.m. until the fireworks finale. Please visit www.callawaygardens. com for more information.

Pike Road “Freedom isn’t Free” Parade

Wednesday, July 4 Registration and assembly begins at 9 a.m. at the Pike Road Baptist Church. Parade begins at 10 a.m. Patriotic parade with floats, riders, horses, antique automobiles and more. Sponsored by the Pike Road Community Club. Activities end at The Feed Lot with prizes awarded. Please call 334-354-2024.

Pike Road Summer Fest

Wednesday, July 4th Will be held at the Waters off of Marlar Rd. Come join us for family fun, food and fireworks. Food vendors, live music and spectacular fireworks. $10 per car load.

Gates open at 5:30. Events begin at 6 p.m. and fireworks at dark. Call 272-9883.

Wetumpka Celebration

Wednesday, July 4th Fireworks, Entertainment by “The Sweet Young’uns” and Jonathon Bloom and Street Dance. Downtown Wetumpka Please visit www.cityofwetumpka.com for more information and updates or call Tiffany at 334-567-5147 for more information or an application for the contests.

Cloverdale-Idlewild Parade

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Wednesday, July 4, at 2 p.m. at the corner of Plymouth and Lexington. Ends at Bottom Park on Cloverdale Rd. Drums, bikes, floats; program at end of parade. Dress in your red, white and blue and join this old fashioned 4th of July celebration. Contact Charlie Colvin at 834-6030.

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Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection Excels

“Under the Big Top” dancers featured below include DC Strutters Senior, Pre-Team and Mini Team after their High Gold 1st Place win at the Hall of Fame Dance Challenge and High Gold & 3rd Place at Stage One Competition.

Karate Center Celebrates Military

Family Karate Center recently held a self-defense demonstration on Maxwell AFB. The presentation was a part of the “Month of the Military Child.” The demonstration featured women and children’s self defense, weapons, and board -reaking.

Shown below is Rhythm Nation, a tap dance which received platinum and overall awards at dance competitions. This dance was also given the title of “the Fabulous Feet” award. The studio attended Stage One and Hall of Fame Dance Challenge regional competitions in Atlanta.

Wetumpka Scouts Earn Eagle Rank

Three Wetumpka scouts recently joined the exclusive fraternity of those who have earned Eagle rank. Ryon Wesley Campbell, Trenton Patrick Hughes and James Colgan Meanor were recognized in a combined ceremony on May 20 at the Wetumpka Depot Theater.

Members of Boy Scout Troop 50, the three earned at least 21 merit badges respectively and successfully completed a community or church-related project to earn their Eagle. Campbell’s project was renovation and installation of a fence project at the Alabama Nature Center in Millbrook. Hughes made improvements to the barracks at Ft. Toulouse in Wetumpka. Meanor’s project was improving the lighting grid and painting the interior of the auditorium at the Wetumpka Depot Theater.

Campbell is a recent graduate of Edgewood Academy and will attend Auburn University in the fall. The son of Wes and Kerry Campbell, he was active in National Honor Society and basketball. Hughes is the son of Greg Hughes and Robin Hughes.

He graduated from Wetumpka High School and will attend the University of South Alabama.

Honors included National Honor Society and Beta Club.

Also attending the University of South Alabama and a graduate of Wetumpka High School, Meanor is the son of Ron and Kristy Meanor. He was an AP Honors student and active in theatre and videography. All three young men are recipients of academic scholarships to the universities they will attend.

Ladies’ Memorial Association Observes Confederate Memorial Day

The Ladies’ Memorial Association of Montgomery has met every year since 1866 at Oakwood Cemetery on April 26 to honor the Confederate dead. In the years following the War Between the States, the LMA took on the task of giving each fallen soldier a proper burial. The association then raised money to erect and preserve monuments to honor the dead.

Dr. Chris Perry of Robinson Springs United Methodist Church in Millbrook gave the invocation and benediction. Colonel John Eidsmoe gave the main address followed by a wreathlaying ceremony at the cemetery, bagpiper Theresa Gordon, rifle salute by Cradle of the Confederacy SCV Camp, and taps played by Raymond Keel. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Ballerinas Win National Recognition

Members of the Prattville Ballet recently attended the Dance Magic National dance competition in Panama City Beach, Florida. The dancers performed a classical ballet piece, with a Spanish flair en pointe to “Victory” by Bond. Bond is an Australian/British string quartet that specializes in classical crossover music. The dancers who train locally at C.J.’s Dance Factory won an Elite Gold and “Top First” in the Teen Ballet Category.

Dancers from left front are: Katelyn Thornton, Brooke Mason, Braidyn Lazenby, Grace Glidden, Shelby Cox, Brantley White and Paige Mason.

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‘Pearl Girls’ Perform for Nursing Home Residents

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As a community service project, the Pearl Girls recently traveled to local nursing homes showcasing their talents in their “On The Road” show. The Pearl Girls performed songs, dance routines and played musical instruments. Afterward, they shared stories with the residents.

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Homeschooling Comes of Age

by Malia Jacobson

Once thought of as an educational off-ramp for a select few, homeschooling is now a viable option for families that might not have considered it a decade ago.

The population of homeschooled students grew by about 7 percent from 2007 to spring 2010. According to Brian D. Ray, Ph.D., founder and president of Salem, Ore.–based National Home Education Research Institute (NHERI), there are now 2.04 million homeschooled students in the U.S.—an increase of 140 percent since the turn of the last century.

Thanks to lowered social stigma around homeschooling, it’s no longer something that’s left wing or right wing, reserved for the ultraconservative or new agers, says Ray. “It’s clearly a viable option for mainstream America.”

According to the NCES, parents’ top reasons for choosing homeschooling have remained consistent: the desire to provide moral education, concerns about the school environment and dissatisfaction with the academic instruction at local schools.

The overarching theme, says Ray, is that most parents who choose to homeschool believe they can provide a better education at home, and they embrace their right to do so. That aspect of homeschooling hasn’t changed.

One-to-one learning

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Technology fuels a surge of interest in homeschool

So then, what has changed about homeschooling in the past decade? What is prompting families to jump onboard?

According to Ray, it’s a combination of technology-aided learning and a corresponding surge in educational options for homeschoolers, from free, government-run online

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schools and online tutoring to turnkey DVD curricula.

These new educational offerings do more than crowd display booths at homeschooling conferences. They remove a major access barrier to homeschooling—the need to have a parent at home full time.

By reducing the intimidation factor, the isolation and even the parental workload once associated with homeschooling, online schools and complete-school-in-a-box curricula make it possible for working parents, single parents and other nontraditional 66

homeschoolers to successfully educate their kids at home.

Parents can choose from a growing menu of options to completely customize their child’s education, and that’s extremely appealing, says Ray. “With the variety of support systems, curricular materials and online support services that are available, there is absolutely no lack of anything that a homeschooling family could want,” he says.

Mike Beery, who homeschools his children Grace,11, and Gavin, 8, finds balance with a DVD homeschooling curriculum that Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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provides video instruction and lesson plans for each child. It’s rigorous and fairly structured, and because the lesson plans come already tailored to each child’s grade level, Beery doesn’t need to spend hours each night preparing the next day’s schoolwork— something he doesn’t have the time for, since he often works at night. Prepping for each day takes about five minutes, he says.

“My wife and I provide support and help when the kids need it. She helps with math; I’m the history person. But they’re old enough to work pretty independently now.”

Most days, the kids spend their mornings on lessons; Beery oversees their work and stays in touch with clients. Afternoons are spent at swim lessons, sports classes and other activities.

Technology-supported home learning also addresses the unique challenges faced by single and divorced parents. For childbirth educator Kelli Barr-Lyles of Spanaway, Wash., a divorced parent, a free online school, The Columbia Virtual Academy, is a way for her to meet her ex-husband halfway.

Her two sons, Jonathan, 13, and Christopher, 9, check in regularly with a learning adviser and fill out monthly accountability worksheets. The system builds learning outcomes into her style of “unschooling” while providing enough structure to keep her former husband, who favors more traditional education, happy.

“It drives me crazy, but it holds me accountable,” she says.

Technology facilitates learning in a way that homeschooling’s early pioneers couldn’t have dreamed of, says Barr-Lyles.

Christopher is studying computer animation, something she doubts he would be able to pursue at a traditional middle school.

Whether this is a real interest or a passing phase, she’s more than happy to help him follow his current passion. “The best thing about homeschool is the level of customization it offers. I can follow their interests.”

Creating connections

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Technology also increases the feeling of being connected and creates a sense of community, says Barr-Lyles. Finding support is important, especially as kids get older and the playdates and parent-child gym classes that once provided regular interaction with other homeschoolers taper off. Luckily, the nearest homeschool group is usually just a few clicks away on the web. “There’s plenty of support out there,” she says. She belongs to “at least a dozen” homeschooling support groups through Yahoo and Meetup.com.

(Find local homeschool support groups in the listing immediately following this article.)

Debra Green of Aurora, Colo., didn’t have the benefit of online support when she

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homeschooled her first two children, now 26 and 23. Now that she’s homeschooling her younger children, Lilly, 6, and Nathanial, 5, she draws on experience and resources from around the world through Heart of Wisdom, a worldwide Christian homeschooling group that communicates primarily through email and message boards. She organizes a local chapter, Home of Wisdom, in her hometown.

Virtual support groups create camaraderie and a larger pool of resources and knowledge, she says. “We can cry to each other and help each other.”

Community programs, often facilitated and managed online, allow homeschooling families to circumvent one of the primary challenges associated with homeschooling: socialization.

The perception that homeschooled children aren’t well socialized just isn’t true, says Beery. Through community homeschooling programs, such as swim lessons and regular playdates, his kids interact with kids of all ages, and adults, too. “That’s important. I think my kids probably get more and better socialization than they would in public school.”

Tech troubles

But there can be downsides to the explosion of technology-aided homeschooling, says Ray. Often, too many choices mean that homeschooling can be overwhelming to newcomers. “When your child attends public school, the curriculum is figured out for you,” says Ray. But homeschoolers are faced with the significant challenge of sifting through dozens of curricular offerings and countless websites and message boards to find out which approach is best for their unique child. It’s information overload, plain and simple.

Starting homeschool was ex­tremely overwhelming at first, says Barr-Lyles. “You feel like the world is on your shoulders. I know my kids better than anyone else, so I had to figure out, how are we going to do this? But you have to weed out the ‘stuff’ out there that doesn’t apply to you and your kids, and it’s hard.”

Even with the world of technologyaided learning at their fingertips, modern homeschoolers shouldn’t discount the importance of face-to-face support. Local support groups, with their meetings, group activities and field trips, are always going to serve an important role, Ray notes. “People still want — and need — high-touch interactions,” he says. “I think that piece is never going to go away.” mp

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Freelance writer Malia Jacobson was homeschooled in the late ’80s and early ’90s. Her homeschool memories involve trekking to far-flung bookstores every fall to pick out textbooks and workbooks.

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Homeschool Resource Guide

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Getting Started & State Laws

Cover Schools

• www.leapingfromthebox.com – Informative website that answers common questions about home schooling in Alabama. Includes support groups, cover schools, etc…

• www.hslda.org - HSLDA (Homeschool Legal Defense Association) gives families the freedom to homeschool without having to face legal threats alone.

• Cornerstone Family Church School 341 North Madison Terrace Montgomery, Alabama 36117 Phone:(334) 361-1227 Website: www.cornerstone-biblechurch.org Contact: Mike and Anna Mae Jones – Prattville, 334-361-1227 Requirements: Interview, agreement with doctrinal statement, quarterly evaluations (record of attendance, curriculum using, activities, etc.), optional online record keeping.

Tuition Fee: $25 per year per family, HSLDA membership - $100 Enrollment Deadline: No deadline

• www.homeschoolcentral.com- Resourceful website for new or veteran homeschoolers. Includes state laws, curriculums, unschooling and much more.

• Dayspring Academy/High School Decatur, AL 35603 Phone: (256) 353-2592

• www.homeschool.com – Wonderful website to visit if you are thinking of homeschooling. Great information on different approaches to homeschooling, such as: classical , unschooling, Charlotte Mason, school in a box, etc…

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Contact: Donna Mitchell, Administrator Email: dayspringacademy@att.net Website: http://www.dsacademy.org Requirements: A church enrollment form to local Board of Education Enrollment Fee: $95 first time enrollment fee Re-enrollment for members is $75 per family .

Enrollment Deadline: Accept new enrollments yearround Other: Phone/in person curriculum help, message board (covers all of Alabama), transcripts for each child, online support, area coordinators available to plan local activities. All books, report cards, graduation ceremony and awards or diplomas will be extra.

• Evangel Family Christian Academy Attn: Homeschool Office 3975 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36106 Phone: (334) 272-3215 Contact: Maretta Oswald, Administrator

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Requirements: Membership in Home School Legal Defense Association (HSLDA); letter from your pastor stating that your family is a member in good standing in a Bible-believing church; course of study for each school-age child; 170 schooling days; orientation meeting at beginning of school year.

Tuition: $100 per year per family Enrollment Deadline: July 28th Other: Quarterly student evaluations; Lift classes available for ages 13 and up, monthly newsletter, field trips, clubs, sports (ages 12 and up), standardized testing as requested and graduation with diploma. www.evangelfamily.net • Everest Academy 1521 3rd St SE, Graysville, AL 35073 Phone: 205-433-9828 Administrator: Deb Spradlin Email: everstacademy1@gmail.com Website: www.alabamahomeschooling.com Mission: Everest Academy believes that the parent has the best interests of their children at heart. We believe that the parent is the first and only teacher that a child needs. In keeping with this philosophy, we wish to be a very hands-off cover school and allow the parent to lead and guide their children in the direction and at the pace they feel is best suited to their children. We ask only for what the law requires while offering support along with quality resources to aid families in their efforts.

Other: We serve all of Alabama, Statewide coverage..

Newsletter sent weekly by email. We offer a wider range of field trips and activities.

Requirements: Application for enrollment and grades and attendance records due at time of graduation or transference.

Tuition: $200 new enrollees / $100 re enrollment per family per year

• Holy Spirit Academy Telephone: 334-669-3861 E-mail: juli.mangum@knology.net Administrator’s Name: Juli Anne Mangum Location (mailing address): 8570 Vaughn Rd., Montgomery, AL 36117 Office hours (for phone contact): 9am-9pm Sponsoring church: Holy Spirit Catholic Church Enrollment area: Local to Central Alabama Statement of Faith: not required. HSLDA: required General description (or Mission Statement): The mission of Holy Spirit Academy is to serve families choosing to educate their school age children at home in compliance with Alabama law. HSA provides home schooling families with a structure of support and services for academic excellence and for living the Catholic faith in the home and society.

Requirements: HSLDA membership, Church School enrollment form filed yearly, curriculum list, semester progress report, semester attendance report, August and January required meetings of primary teachers. We do accept families of other religions with a pastor’s letter stating they are registered members of their church. Tuition: $35 yearly fee.

• Little Flock Ministries P.O. Box 250504, Montgomery, AL 36125 (334) 288-7475; (Montgomery) Hours: 7 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.

Administrators: Tracy Glover Email: glovereleven@bellsouth.net Mission Statement: Interdenominational church school. Our goal is to serve homeschooling families regardless of church and/or religious affiliations.

Requirements: We do require that the four basic subjects be taught, one attendance report per month, two progress reports per year. You must maintain daily

record of attendance, grade book, lesson plans and a work portfolio with samples of past work at home.

You must fill out application package.

Tuition: $25 per year per family Enrollment Deadline: open year round • Outlook Academy P.O. Box 1027, Millbrook, AL 36054 Phone: 334-290-0919 Directors: Carren and Daniel Joye Email: info@outlookacademy.com Web site: www.outlookacademy.org Outlook Academy is a hands-off church school.

Because we believe that parents are best suited to direct the education of their children, Outlook Academy asks only for what the law requires while also offering support for your personal choices. We accept students from all over the state. Because we wish to use today’s available technology to make the homeschooling process as easy, efficient and convenient as possible, many of our services have Internet options, such as attendance reports via email.

Requirements: Attendance reports at the end of the year. Not required: membership in HSLDA, meetings, minimum days of attendance, testing, curriculum review, or statement of faith.

Enrollment Fee: $30, one time Tuition: $95 per family, per year.

Enrollment Deadline: August 1, with mid-year enrollments for an additional fee Other: Weekly Co-op, convenient attendance reporting via email, monthly newsletter, online support, contact information for local homeschool support groups, web site featuring curriculum information and news of home schooling interests.

Vacation Bible School June 11 through 15 :: 9:00 AM to Noon ages 4 through 6th grade :: FREE! For more information or to register, visit

www.montgomeryfbc.org Watch amazing things happen as kids encounter God like never before—all against the backdrop of some of the world’s most marvelous natural wonders. As kids explore Psalm 147:5, they’ll recognize God’s power over all things, trust that God is always in control, accept God’s gift of forgiveness, celebrate that Jesus is alive, and rely on God’s power.

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First Baptist Church • 305 South Perry Street • Jay Wolf, Pastor • 334.834.6310 • www.montgomeryfbc.org Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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•New Hope Academy c/o The Learning Place 698 Silver Hills Drive, Prattville and Second location: 2812 Main Street, Millbrook 334-361-9505; Hours: 8 a.m until 6 p.m.

Administrators: Tina Halbert Email: thelearningplace@att.net Website: http://www.thelearningplacealabama.com Mission Statement: The Learning Place provides a legal homeschool covering for those parents choosing to homeschool their children. We are a “hands-off” cover school, requiring only the basic enrollment procedures and attendance policies. Please read our forms for more information. Feel free to contact us with any questions.

Enrollment: Accepting applications year round.

Tuition:$20 per child with an $80 cap.

Please visit www.leapingfromthebox.com for statewide cover schools. Also, check with your local church to see if it might be a cover school for its members.

Curriculum • ABEKA Curriculum: Abeka Curriculum has a Christian and traditional approach to education. They offer three options to teaching. The DVD option is a fully accredited college preparatory program with ABEKA Academy. The second option is the traditional parent – directed option with ABEKA Academy. The third option is textbooks / materials for home schooling that you pick and choose from.

ABEKA offers home school material displays several times a year in Montgomery and surrounding areas.

Please visit www.abeka.com for more information or for a free catalog.

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• Alpha Omega Publications: Alpha Omega offers a wide variety of Christian curricula for varying learning styles. Please visit www.aop.com for more information or a free catalog.

• Bob Jones Curriculum: BJU offers quality textbooks, homeschool consultants, student focused distance learning classes, and a wide range of other products and services to meet your educational needs.

BJU Press offers home school material displays in Montgomery and surrounding areas during the year.

Please visit www.bjupress.com or call 1-800-8455731 for more information or a free catalog.

• Calvert School – “When enrolled in Calvert school, you have a partner in education.” They provide you with all of the textbooks, tools and support you need.

Calvert is a classical Christian Private School. The teachers provide the lessons plans and everything is provided to you. They offer support with placement testing, education counselors, and advisory teaching services. Please visit www.calvertschool.org/homeschool/ or call 1-888-487-4652 for more information or a free catalog.

• Heart of Dakota - Christ centered homeschool curricula that is flexible, easy to use, and educational.

This curricula can be used with multiple ages at the same time. Please visit www.heartofdakota.com for more information or for a free catalog.

• Keystone National High School - Online Accredited High School and Middle School where you can earn your diploma online. Visit www.keystonehighschool.com.

• KONOS – KONOS is distinct from other curricula.

It uses the entire library as a textbook and the whole

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world as its curriculum. www.konos.com • My Father’s World – Raising up generations of families who see the world through God’s eyes and live according to that knowledge. www.mfwbooks.com • Oak Meadow – Oak Meadow offers many different options to meet individual family needs for education. They offer complete curriculum for at home use or you can enroll online to receive academic credit.

Their curricula gives students freedom to learn with flexibility and recognition of learning styles. Please visit www.oakmeadow.com for more information or a free catalog.

• Rod & Staff Curricula – Rod and Staff offer Bible based textbooks that are designed to make the child God conscious. Please visit www.rodandandstaffbooks.com and click on the homeschool link.

• Saxon Curriculum – Saxon teaches the foundational skills of math and reading. Please visit www. saxonpublishers.com for more information.

• Sonlight Curriculum - Sonlight uses a classical Christian approach to education. It is literature rich and focuses on teaching children to seek God’s kingdom and to create a learner’s heart, enthusiasm and excitement for learning. Please visit www.sonlight. com for more information, a free catalog or to visit the forums.

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• Tapestry of Grace – Tapestry of Grace uses a Classical / Redesigned approach to education through a plan of study that helps parents provide a Christian,

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classical education using a guided unit study approach. Students cycle through world history every four years, with all ages studying the same slice of history each week, each at their own learning level.

This curricula does not include does not include a phonics program, science, math, grammar, spelling, or foreign language. Please visit www.tapestryofgrace.com for more information.

• Timberdoodle Co. – Offers a wonderful selection of books and Core Curriculums. Our selection is based on over twenty-five years of homeschooling and 24 years of selling homeschooling supplies.

Please visit us at www.timberdoodle.com • Veritas Press – Specializes in providing educational materials for a classical Christian education. Scripted lesson plans with a complete curriculum package or online classes with expert teachers available. Please visit www.veritaspress.com for more information or a free catalog.

• Winter Promise - Winter Promise celebrates the strengths of family by building unity, togetherness and memories. Our captivating programs will excite your family’s curiosity and our interactive learning opportunities will involve every type of learner. www.winterpromise.com

Special Needs www.autismtoday.com Everything you need to know about autism

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www.autism-society.org: Information, education and support for families

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www.autism-pdd.net/inks/alabama.html: Information and support www.wrightslaw.com: Special education law and advocacy for children with disabilities www.mitchells-place.com Diagnostic services, treatment, education and support for families

Resources A to Z Home’s Cool – Curriculum and information; http://homeschooling.gomilpitas.com Bellerophon Books – Books covering art, literature, history, etc. www.bellerophonbooks.com

Greenleaf Press – The original and still the best resources for teaching history and literature chronologically. www.greenleafpress.com Hands of a Child – Large variety of Lapbook kits www.handsofachild.com Hearthsong – Unique toys, games, puzzles, dolls, arts and crafts. www.hearthsong.com Homeschool Super Center – Secular and religious material offered. www.homeschoolsupercenter.com/

Home Science Tools – Affordable Science tools and kits for hands on experimentation. www.homesciencetools.com Learning Things – The Education Store www.learningthings.com

Beautiful Feet History and Science Curriculum – Offers classic and historic works that nurture a love for reading. www.bfbooks.com

Mindware – Educational toys, games and learning toys. www.mindware.com

Chem4kids- Wonderful chemistry website for kids. www.chem4kids.com

Rainbow Resource Center – Educational Books and Curriculum at Great Prices http://www.rainbowresource.com/index.php

Children’s Books- Wide assortment of curricula and books. www.homeschooldiscountproducts.com Christian Liberty Press – Large assortment for the Christ centered biblical approach. www.christianbook.com Distance Learning Integrators- Electronic field trips www.efieldtrips.org

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Real Science 4 Kids - Science Curriculum from Preschool to Highschool. Please visit www.gravitaspublications.com ROCK Solid – Educational Books and Curriculum at Great Prices. www.rocksolidinc.com Store for Knowledge – A variety of kits, models and toys. www.storeforknowledge.com

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Timberdoodle - Fully customizable, budget friendly, complete curriculum and more! www.timberdoodle.com Vision Forum – Christian based company with inspirational toys, books, classical reading. Wonderful website! www.visionforum.com White House Kids – News, history and games www.whitehouse.gov/kids Yesterday’s Classics- Classic Books for Children http://www.yesterdaysclassics.com/ Zoom Kitchen Chemistry Explore the virtual kitchen and perform online experiments. http://pbskids.org/zoom/games/kitchenchemistry/ Also, check with your local library for resources.

Support Groups • Academy Days Homeschool Co-op Contact: Carren Joye, carren@outlookacademy.com http://www.academydays.com Upcoming classes at the Academy Days co-op vary from American Literature and Composition, Spanish, Fun With Words (Spelling/Vocab), Creative Writing, Art Exploration, P.E., Photography II, Oil Painting, Choir, Art History, Scrapbooking/Cardmaking, World History, Ancient History, Biology, General Science, Marine Biology and many more ! Held weekly during the school year at Grace Community Church in Millbrook, this affordable co-op is designed for students (preschool through high school) to gather

for subjects difficult to teach at home or best taught in group setting. The co-op is open to all homeschoolers of any covering. Deadline to sign up for Fall is July 31.

• Charlotte Mason Contact: Lavonne Hart montgomerylifelearners@gmail.com Becky Rod, beckyrod@knology.net; 334-270-1557 This group holds monthly meetings for fellowship, encouragement and application of Charlotte Mason’s educational philosophies for our homeschooling families. We also host speaker seminars with regional CM experts and maintain a members only yahoo group to share encouragement, ideas and information.

• Fellowship of Home Educators (FHE)http://groups. yahoo.com/group/fhenewsandinfo/ FHE is a group of families in Prattville and surrounding area who support one another in the area of home education. We offer many educational opportunities as well as social gathering for our children.

• Elmore County Homeschool Organization (ECHO) http://www.onlineecho.com http://groups.yahoo.com/group/homeschoolecho We are a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area (Elmore, Autauga, Montgomery) of Alabama.

Our motto at ECHO is: “You get out what you put in!”

We meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at the Coosada Baptist Church (Annex). Membership is free! Just bring your children and your enthusiasm.

We feel that we can conduct our adult discussions with our children in the room, so there is no cost for childcare at ECHO! Our meetings provide practical

support for parents while our children participate in supervised activities and playtime. From small things, great things grow -- ECHO is like that. What you put in, what you plant, is what comes out, and with care it will GROW! So get to know your fellow homeschoolers while your children make some homeschooled friends!

• Maxwell Area Home Educators (MAHE) http://groups.yahoo.com/group/MAHE/ Maxwell Area Home Educators is a support group formed primarily to encourage military homeschoolers in the MGM (Maxwell/Gunter/Montgomery) area regardless of their reasons for homeschooling, philosophy, or method of instruction. MAHE is NOT a legal “church school,” but a network of homeschoolers working together to assist one another in our homeschooling efforts. If you are new to homeschooling or are long term homeschool parents looking to broaden your child’s academic experience, there is much we can do to help you.

• PEAK of Montgomery (Parent Educators and Kids); http://www.peaknetwork.org/montgomery Parent Educators and Kids (PEAK) of Montgomery is an inclusive, member led-group, welcoming all local home educators who enjoy sharing and learning within a diverse community. Our members plan local field trips, park days and other social and learning opportunities for home educators in the Montgomery area. To join us, visit www.peaknetwork.org/montgomery.

Workshops and Book Sales • Alabama Homeschool Expo June 28-30 at the Montgomery Convention Center.

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Learn how to Homeschool June 28. Purchase from exhibitors and attend workshops June 29-30. Look for discounts and details at AlabamaHomeschoolexpo.com • Evangel Family Christian Academy Used Book Sale Saturday, June 23rd, 10 a.m. -3 p.m. in the Evangel Temple Gym. The used book sale is for all who desire to attend. Table space must be reserved for families who are NOT EFCA members ($20.00 fee) by calling EFCA by Friday, June 20th.

• CHEF Home School Conference – June 21-22 in Gardendale, AL at Gardendale First Baptist Church. www.chefofalabama.org CHEF of Alabama serves all home educators in Alabama by providing information, services, and resources from a Christian perspective to anyone who needs help in the area of homeschooling. CHEF had a huge Homeschool Convention and Curriculum Fair every year. To find our more about CHEF please visit their website at www.chefofalabama.org • ABEKA Homeschool Materials Display in Montgomery; June 14, 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Comfort Inn & Suites in Eastchase; June 29-30 for the Alabama Homeschool Expo at The Montgomery Convention Center; July 30, 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. at Hampton Inn & Suites in Eastchase; August 29, 11 a.m. - 3 p.m, Comfort Inn & Suites in East Chase. Please visit Abeka’s website for dates in other locations.

• Southeast Homeschool EXPO July 26-28 Cobb Galleria in Marietta, GA. The Homeschool Expo is a “don’t miss” whole family two day event with hundreds of exhibitors and thousands of products where parents can review and purchase the latest curriculum, hear great speakers who give practical encouragement, and receive personalized help and answers to any questions. Online registration ends Thursday, July 10th. Please visit www. southeasthomeschoolexpo.com.

Extra-curricular Activities • Armory Gymnastics Center 1018 Madison Avenue, 334-241-2789 Classes for ages 2 years and up. Cost: $35 per month (2 classes per week) Additional siblings receive 60% discount. Mondays and Wednesday classes: 12:30-1:30 or 1:30-2:30. Tuesday and Thursday classes: 12:30-1:30 or 1:30-2:30. Please call for more information.

• AUM Homeschool Programs AUM’s Homeschool classes are enrichment classes that are specially designed for homeschool students.

They are not designed to replace curriculum. Class sizes are small so students receive individualized attention. All classes are hands on. Our goal is to offer learning experiences that parents are not able or willing to attempt at home. Classes will resume in September and a complete schedule will be available on August 13. For more information please call 2442804 or visit us at www.aum.edu and click on the Continuing Education tap at the top right and scroll down to Youth programs.

• AUM Homeschool Science Labs Don’t want to purchase tons of supplies for one science experiment? Don’t want to clean up the mess after the experiment? If so, AUM Home School labs are just right for you. These labs are developed

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specifically to enrich what you are teaching at home.

Our labs are full of hands on learning opportunities.

Please call 244-3804 for more information or visit www.aum.edu/coned to learn more.

• Brunswick Home School Bowling League 5665 Carmichael Road, Montgomery, AL The Home School League will meet September 6.

Please call closer to this time to get the exact date.

At this meeting the parents will decide what day and what time Home School League will meet. All ages of home school students are invited to bowl in this league. For more information about the league contact us at 334-270-1101.

• Cedar Lane Sport Horses in Wetumpka 334-657-2253 or 334-567-8462 Syllabus Designed for Home Schoolers. English Riding Instruction and Education. Lots of fun and learning on great horses! Mondays thru Fridays. Special Pricing discounts for Home School Families.

Join us or this fun-filled adventure. Call Mischelle Park for details. Over 25 years experience in teaching, riding and showing. Limited spaces available and first lesson is FREE. • Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center 3179 Taylor Rd., Phone: 334-220-5835 Homeschooling classes year round Monday and Thursday mornings. Please visit www.trytkdfree.com • Family Karate Center 8159 Vaughn Road Phone: 277-4911 or 467-5762 Instructor: Master Carole Coker Offers homeschool classes Monday through Thursday and on Saturdays at various times. Private

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classes. Instructor has master’s degree in early childhood education and special education (Only school that offers work with Autism, Aspergers, ADD, and ADHD). We have a full workout room for mom’s while children are in class. Free tutoring from certified teacher for all children. Homework checked.

Outstanding academic achievement receives treasure chest rewards. Each homeschooler’s report card displayed on Wall of Fame. Students earn bonus bucks for pro-shop. Call for FREE class today.

Classes are offered on Wednesday from 1 p.m. until 2 p.m. for ages 6 and up. A waiver is signed for each participant. Cost is $6.00 per child per visit.

• Homeschool Skate Day at Looney’s Super Skate Phone: 334-281-1032 September thru May, 1st and 3rd Wednesday of each month; Time: 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. $3.00 per skater (includes skate rental)

The Well Trained Mind…Guide to Classical Education at Home by Susan Wise Bauer and Jessie Wise.

Great book for resources.

• McWane Science Center Labs Contact: Rachel Pace 200 Nineteenth Street North, Birmingham, AL 205-714-8359; www.mcwane.org McWane Science Center Labs are designed to supplement what you are teaching at home. Students will be able to use equipment and take part in experiments that are not easily executed in the home classroom. Our labs fall within the standards of the Alabama Course of Study as well as the National Science Standards.

• River Region Homeschool Band Meets on Thursdays beginning in September at Fountain of Grace Church in Prattville. We offer a beginner class and Intermediate/Advanced Class. $40 per month with an additional discount for family members. Please call Ted Mann at 334-312-1486.

• United Gym Stars 6100 Brewbaker Blvd., 334-284-2244 What a great way to get in physical education.

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• YMCA Homeschool Physical Education Select YMCA’s offer PE to homeschoolers for an hour. Please call your local branch for information.

Recommended Reading

100 Top Picks for Homeschool Curriculum by Cathy Duffy The Homeschooling Handbook by Mary Griffith.

Making the Decision and Getting Started.

The Way They Learn by Cynthia Ulrich Tobias. Discover and teach to your child’s strengths.

For the Children’s Sake by Susan Schaeffer Macalay The Five Love Languages of Children by Chapman & Campbell The Practical Home Schooling Magazine by Mary Pride The Big Books of Home Learning by Mary Pride

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If you provide any services or resources to homeschooling families and you were not listed in this issue, please contact us at editor@montgomeryparents.com. We want to make sure you are included!

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Dance Generation Dancers State Champs Again!

Students of Dance Generation of Montgomery participating in the Alabama State Championship Dance Competition during Spring Break came home with top honors. Sr. Tap Team Blue Man Group received Platinum and Overall High point Award as well as the Preteens who received Platinum and Gold for their tap and jazz as well as high point overall score and runner up high point over all score. The jazz trio, solo and tap duet also received platinum awards and high point overall score awards.

Visit them at www.dancegenerationstudio.com.

Pictured are Senior Tap Team Blue Man Group and Preteens.

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Public Library Events MONTGOMERY CITY-COUNTY PUBLIC LIBRARY

Storytimes

Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library (Main Branch) 245 High Street 240-4991 Summer Reading Program Thursdays @ 10:30 a.m.

June 21 Dream Big, Be SafeDeputy Dave will talk about strangers, the proper use of 911, and saying NO to DRUGS. June 28 Dream Big, ReadEnjoy storytelling with Allen Bowen/The Space Walker.

Teens’ Summer Reading Wednesdays @ 10 a.m.

Sign up to read ten (10) books or more to receive a reading award and your name will be entered into a drawing for a grand prize at the end of the summer program.

June 20 “Girls in the Air” – Learn about life in the air with a spokesperson from Delta Airlines and see what it really means to be fly!

June 27 Riding for Education – Love motorcycles? Take a ride through education with the state troopers, Montgomery County sheriffs, MPD, U.S. marshals, Harley Owners Group and other civilian riders.

Coliseum Branch 840 Coliseum Boulevard 271-7005 Preschool Storytimes Thursdays, 10 a.m.

June 7 I love to help others!

All Hands on Deck 3,2,1 Liftoff Craft - Lego man masks June 14 I love trying to solve a mystery!

Who Stole the Cookies?

Turtle and Sanke Go Camping Craft - Turtle craft June 21 I’d like a friend like Barbie!

Barbie, A Horse Rider Barbie, A Teacher Craft - Horse masks www.montgomeryparents.com

June 28 I love silly stories!

Blue Chicken Fox and Hen Together Craft - Chicken masks

“Own the Night” Summer Matinees for Tweens and Teens Wednesday @ 10 a.m.

June 20 “Tangled” – 1 hr. 41 min

Summer Reading Program Fridays @ 10 a.m.

June 27 “Hugo” – 2 hr. 6 min.

Elementary Program June 22 Dream Big with Johnny Appleseed Learn of Johnny Appleseed’s dream of planting apple trees across the Midwest.

Activity – plant your apple seed

Hampstead Branch Library 5251 Hampstead High St., Ste. 107 244-5770 Preschool Storytimes Tuesdays, 10:30 a.m.

Children 3 and up

June 29 Dream Big with Cats and Cat Art Join Eliza Coral as she tells her original cat stories while using her creative art as illustrations.

Activity – cat art

June 5 Tiny Little Fly Flip, Flap, Fly Animal masks June 12 Clang! Clang! Beep! Beep!

Goodnight, Goodnight Construction Site Construction Coloring Sheet

Teen Program Tuesday, June 26 @ 3 p.m.

Movie Day “Hugo” Governor’s Square Branch 2885-B E. South Blvd.

284-7929 Summer Reading Program, 10 a.m.

June 19 Dream Big Little Pig In My Dreams I Can Fly Craft: Straw Rocket Ships June 26 Olu’s Dream Ready to Dream Craft: Parachute Guy

June 4 Down by the Water Day Learn the song “Down by the Bay” and other water songs Emma at the Beach Tar Beach Craft activity

Baby & Toddler Time Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.

An early learning program for children ages 6 months to 3 years

June 11 Magic Movie Day “Noddy and the Magic Night”

June 6 Nursery Rhymes: “Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater” and “Mary, Mary Quite Contrary.”

Signing “milk.”

Grades K-5 on Mondays June 18 Martin’s Big Dream presented

by Kelly Hoomes, curator for the Museum of Archives and History.

Then hear Rosa’s Bus and do an MLK craft.

June 13 Nursery Rhymes: “Bobby Shafto” and “Lucy Locket” Signing “eat.”

June 20 Nursery Rhymes: “Rain, Rain, Go Away” and “Humpty Dumpty” Signing “bath.”

June 25 Spine-chilling Tales Storyteller Sally Blackwell tell some eerie tales of “things that go bump in the night,” then direct the children in a craft activity.

Preschool on Tuesdays June 19 Dr. King’s Marvelous Dream presented by Kelly Hoomes, curator for the Museum of Archives and History. Then hear Rosa’s Bus and do an MLK craft.

June 26 Tales of the Night Storyteller Sally Blackwell reads some funny monster tales.

Then the children will do a craft.

June 27 Nursery Rhyme: “Little Bo-Peep” Signing “more.”

Craft: Parachute Guy Summer Reading Program Kick-Off Party Fri., June 22, 10:30 a.m.-noon At Hampstead on the Green near the Fountain. All ages are invited for a fun start to Summer Reading!

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Thur. June 21 @ 1:30 p.m.

Dream Big— Growing! Jack and

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the Beanstalk. Check out our sweet potato plant display and learn how to grow your own sweet potato plant at home!

Thur., June 28 @ 1:30 p.m.

Dream Big – Home Run! Big Moe and one of the Montgomery Biscuits will be here to share Casey at the Bat and other fun baseball stories as part of their Home Run Reading Program.

Grades 4-6 Tues., June 19 @ 4 p.m.

Big Fun: Games at the Library.

Pictureka! Monopoly DEAL, Skip-Bo and Scrabble Tues., June 26 @ 4 p.m.

Dream up your own story. We’ll talk about creative writing, poetry and get some writing tips. Participants are encouraged to bring in their own writing and poetry to share with the group.

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Teens (Grades 7 and up) Wed., June 27 @ 4 p.m.

Own the Night: Just Dance Summer Party – We’ll kick off summer with a dance party—Wii style.

Two dance at a time, the victor dances again, the loser takes a break and the next challenger chooses the song. All participants must have a signed permission slip to participate.

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Rufus A. Lewis Branch 3095 Mobile Hwy. 240-4848 Wednesdays, 10 a.m.

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June 20 Artist Michael Albert will show our young ones what extraordinary art can be created with cereal boxes – a must see!

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June 27 Storytime with Ms. Patricia Blair Summer Reading Program Tuesdays @ 10 a.m.

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June 19 Be entertained and informed on summer safety by Sparky the Fire Dog June 26 Learn how we affect the environment with ADEM – Ala. Dept. of Environmental Management

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Teen Summer Reading Program Mondays @ 2 p.m.

June 18 Comic Book Mania The advantages and disadvantages Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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of collecting comic books. Each child will be given a comic book.

June 25 Teen Safety with Charles Dysart, Alabama State Trooper E.L. Lowder Branch 2590 Bell Road 244-5717 Preschool Storytimes Fridays, 10:15 a.m.

June 1 It Looked Like Spilt Milk A Flannel Board Story Activity: Cloud Craft June 8 Curious George and the Ice Cream Surprise Activity: Ice Cream Dot to Dot June 15 A Father’s Day Thank You Activity: Father’s Day Craft June 22 The Very Hungry Caterpillar A Flannel Board Story Activity: Caterpillar Coloring Sheet June 29 Rainbow Fish Activity: Fish Craft Summer Reading Program Wed., June 20 @ 1 p.m.

MICHAEL ALBERT brings his “Modern Pop Art Experience” to the Library!!!!

NY Pop Artist Michael Albert is the Artist/Author of “An Artist’s America” (Henry Holt, 2008) Fri., June 22 @ 10 a.m.

Hampstead, Lowder & Pike Road Summer Reading KickOff at Hampstead on the Green Tues., June 26 @ 10:30 a.m.

Katie’s Kool Kardboard Kreations Come Dream Big and See What We Can Do With Cardboard!

Rosa L. Parks Branch 1276 Rosa L. Parks Ave./240-4979 Storytimes Tuesdays, 10 a.m.

June 5 Don’t Let the Pigeon Stay up Late!

June 12 Little Star June 19 Go to Bed, Ed! June 26 Tom’s Afraid of the Dark Children’s Summer Reading @ Rosa Parks Branch Library Wednesdays June 20 @ 4 p.m.

Come create art with famous pop artist Michael Albert!

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June 27 @ 10 a.m.

Come learn all about fire safety with Sparky the Firedog!

Craft: Picture Paper Pillows Snack Thurs., June 21 @ 10 a.m.

Summer Learning Day Brenda Henson, 4-H Agent, Ala. Cooperative Extension System Learning Activities Snack

Teen Summer Reading @ Rosa Parks Branch Library Wed., June 20 @ 4 p.m.

Come create art with famous pop artist Michael Albert!

Tues., June 26 @ 10 a.m.

Brenda Henson, 4-H Agent, Ala. Cooperative Extension System “Dream Big” Dirt Babies Craft: Funky Photo Figures Snack

Fri., June 22 @ 2 p.m.

Creatures of the night will be here from the Montgomery Zoo! Come see bats and owls in action!

Fri., June 29 @ 2 p.m.

Learn self-defense with Debbie Robison!

Wed., June 27 @ 10 a.m.

Stars Craft: Make Stars Learn about the constellations Snack

Pike Road Branch 9585 Pike Rd. / 244-8679 NOTE: New day, same time!

Story Time for ages 3 through 7 Tuesdays at 4:15 p.m.

Thurs., June 28 @ 10 a.m.

Joan Means, librarian at Governor’s Square Branch Come “Dream Big – Read!”

Snack

June 5 Pete the Cat: I Love My White Shoes Pete the Cat and His Four Groovy Buttons

Ramer Branch Library 5444 State Highway 94 (334) 562-3364 Preschool Storytime Tuesdays, 10 a.m.

June 12 No story time today June 19 Bob

June 19 Summer Fun with Tracey Woodall, librarian at Dunbar-Ramer School. Woodall reads stories and does crafts

June 26 Andrew’s Loose Tooth Family Movie Time Thursday, June 21, at 3:30 p.m.

Hey, kids and grown-ups, come on over to enjoy a movie and some popcorn for FREE!

June 26 Library Fun with Lynda Maddox, former MCCPL librarian. Maddox teaches about the library.

Pike Road Children’s Summer Reading Events Mondays at 3:30 p.m. for ages 5 and up, but all are welcome

Millbrook

3650 Grandview Road Call 285-6688 or visit http://library.cityofmillbrook.org/ Pre-school Storyhour Thursdays at 10 a.m.

Summer Reading Program for all kids between the ages of 4 to 12.

June 18 Magician and puppeteer Tommy Johns will present “I Had This CRAZY Dream.”

June 25 “Dreaming of the Chocolate Fountain”: annual event, along with a couple of chocolate-themed stories.

AutaugaPrattville Library 254 Doster Street, Prattville Call 365-3396 or visit http://www.appl.info Preschool Storytime & Summer Reading Program Tuesdays at 10 a.m.

June 5 Big Mo & the Biscuits!

June 12 Surprise Special Guest Reader June 19 Russell Davis Magic June 26 Storytime Night Events @ the Library for ages 10 and up Thursdays, 7:30-9 p.m.

Ghost Hunters and Writing Ghost Stories!

P.A.W.S. dogs Wednesdays from 3:30-4:30 p.m. Come read to our furry, four-legged friends!

Also...FOUR different summer book clubs to choose from: Geronimo Stilton for grades 1-4 Wednesdays, 1:30-3 p.m.

Night Fairies for grades 3-5 Thursdays, 1:30-3 p.m.

Around the World in 80 Mysteries for grades 4-6 Fridays, 10 a.m.-noon Hunger Games for grades 6 and up Tuesdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m.

Wetumpka

212 S. Main St. (next to Wetumpka Depot) Call 567-1308 or visit wetumpkalibrary.com Preschool storytimes June 26 Tuesdays & Fridays at 10 a.m.

Art with Carol Barksdale Thursdays, 1:30 p.m. at the Jeanette Summer Reading Program Barrett Civic Room for rising 7thTuesdays, 2 p.m. at the Wetumpka 12th grades, “Own the Night.”

Civic Center for rising 1st-6th June 7 grades, “Dream Big: READ!” Movie (in the Council Chambers June 5 of the Library) Native American Tales with June 14 Marty Hoerr At Your Service with a Service Dog June 12 June 21 Bats with Dr. Kimberly Hays Dreams June 19 June 28 BeAt Your Best with Mark Personal Safety with the Wetumpka Police Seymour

Pine Level Branch 20 Kohn Dr., Pine Level 584-7144 Pine Level Storytime group has combined with Pike Road.

Pintlala Branch 255 Federal Rd., Hope Hull 281-8069 Summer Reading Program Tues., June 19 @ 10 a.m.

Introduction with Ms. Sandra A Time to Sleep Write a poem – What is your dream?

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The Road to Dry Nights

by Malia Jacobson

When my first daughter showed signs of potty readiness at age two, I was more than ready to help her ditch the diapers.

Before long, she was proudly sporting Elmo underwear and staying dry all day long. I was ecstatic. As a potty-training novice, I was certain that it would be a matter of weeks before she was dry at night, too.

Of course, reality wasn’t nearly as neat and tidy. Although daytime training was quick and easy, nighttime dryness proved elusive. Months passed, and she pottied like a pro during the day but clung fiercely to diapers at night. After two long years (and many unsuccessful attempts) she finally started waking up dry, and we packed away the diapers for good.

In retrospect, it was no big deal: it’s highly common for a four-year-old to wear a diaper to bed. Eventually, most kids achieve nighttime dryness without intervention. But I could have avoided some anxiety if I’d known all of that going in.

Our situation was far from unusual; experts say that many parents need to adjust their expectations about nighttime dryness. According to Tai Lockspeiser, M.D., assistant professor of pediatrics at The Children’s Hospital in Aurora, www.montgomeryparents.com

Colorado, nighttime bladder control is a maturational process that can lag behind daytime bladder control by months or years. Twenty percent of kids still have nighttime accidents at five years of age, and doctors don’t define bedwetting until children are six years old.

So it’s completely normal, even expected, for kids to take their time with nighttime potty training. But the delay leaves many parents like me stuck in a waiting game, wondering when daytime potty learning will carry over into nighttime dryness. While parents can’t speed up the developmental process, they can help encourage dry nights with these simple steps.

dryness is to practice good daytime habits, notes Steve Hodges, M.D., a pediatric urologist at Wake Forest University Baptist Medical Center. Children should use the toilet as soon as they feel the urge— holding can strain the bladder and worsen nighttime wetting, he says. And using the toilet before bedtime is a must.

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Encourage Digestive Health

“Constipation is probably the most underappreciated cause of bedwetting,” says Hodges. “It plays a role in thirty percent of the cases I see.” A full bowel puts pressure on the bladder, making nighttime accidents more likely.

Cut Caffeine

Age Matters

Start with realistic expectations.

While 88 percent of kids develop nighttime bladder control by age six, the timeline varies widely. Boys typically train more slowly than girls, says Lockspeiser.

Kids who are exceptionally deep sleepers and those with developmental delays may have more difficulty with wetting as well, she says.

Potty Practice

The best way to encourage nighttime 80

Limit fluids two hours before bedtime, particularly caffeine-containing beverages. “Caffeine is a diuretic, so it promotes urination. Drinking it before bedtime will make it harder for kids to stay dry at night,” says Lockspeiser.

Ensure Nighttime Toilet Access

Ensure that kids have access to the toilet at night. Nightlights in hallways and bathrooms can help kids find their way easily. If the trek to the toilet is too far or involves stairs that tots can’t navigate on Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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their own, parents can place one of the small portable toilets commonly used for potty-training in their room at night.

Skills versus Pills

Doctors may recommend treatment options for persistent wetting that doesn’t resolve by age six. Bedwetting alarms, called enuresis alarms, help children learn to stay dry by waking them at the first sign of wetness.

Medicines like desmopressin can help prevent accidents by slowing nighttime urine production. While pharmaceutical treatment can be useful for special situations—sleepovers or vacations, for example—it doesn’t help to correct a bedwetting habit, says Robert W. Collins, Ph.D., a psychologist who specializes in childhood toileting problem. He prefers alarms over pills: “Medications don’t enhance learning to give kids the skills to stay dry.”

Health Matters

See a doctor if a child who has been potty-trained and dry at night for months begins wetting at night. A urinary tract infection is a common culprit for sudden

wetting. “We also consider stressors or social challenges, like a move, a new school, or divorce,” says Lockspeiser.

Staying Clean: Encopresis

Start with realistic expectations.

While 88 percent of kids develop nighttime bladder control by age six, the timeline varies widely.

What about kids who soil at night?

Encopresis is the term for soiling in inappropriate places after age four. While nighttime soiling in preschoolers and school-age children is much rarer than bedwetting, it’s also more emotionally distressing for the family and socially isolating for the child, says Collins. His website, www.soilingsolutions.com, is a resource for parents dealing with encopresis.

Healthy Habits

First, take a look at their daytime bowel habits. “Chances are, a child who is soiling at night is holding during the day,” says Collins. Dietary changes, increased fluid intake, and changes to the child’s daily routine can help encourage regular elimination during the day.

If improved daytime habits don’t

resolve the problem, families can progress to more advanced encopresis treatment, which may include supplements, suppositories, and behavioral therapy to treat severe constipation and holding habits.

The good news: these treatments have a high success rate and kids benefit from increased confidence and self-esteem as the condition improves.

Parents’ attitudes are highly important as kids develop nighttime control. “Treat it as a problem-solving exercise—a family science experiment,” says Collins. Above all, make sure that children know that nighttime wetting or soiling is not their fault. Maintain a relaxed, supportive attitude, and you’ll pave the way for a future filled with clean nights and happily dry mornings. mp Malia Jacobson is a freelance writer and mom who writes frequently about kids sleep and health issues.

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Little Miss Firecracker Pageant Planned for June 23 The Little Miss Firecracker Pageant will be held on Saturday, June 23, at the Doster Center in Prattville. The pageant is open to young girls, ages 1 month to 17 years, who live in Alabama. Applications for the pageant are due no later than Wednesday, June 13. Early bird registration, take $5 off the registration fee, if received by Monday, June 3.

The pageant is also seeking vendors but space is limited.

There will be seven age categories for the pageant: Baby Miss: 1 month–11 months, Tiny Miss: 1-2 years, Petite Miss: 3-5 years, Little Miss: 6-8, Young Miss: 9-11, Pre-Teen Miss: 12-14 years and Teen Miss: 15-17 years. The contestant must be that age by the date of the competition.

Division groups Babies to Petite Miss will compete at 10 a.m. and Little Miss to Teen Miss at 3 p.m.

This is a semi-natural pageant where age-appropriate attire and a “natural” look are stressed. Flippers, false eyelashes and hair extensions/pieces are not appropriate for this pageant, and judges will be instructed to deduct points for those contestants that do not follow these rules.

Attire for the competition is age-appropriate Casual Wear. No swimsuits, bare midriffs, short shorts or low cut tops are allowed. Suggestions for attire (but NOT limited to the following) are: sundresses, short sets, Capri sets...fun summer clothes that show your contestant’s personality.

The child is NOT judged on the outfit but on the presentation. Those that would like to be judged on the outfit should enter the Optional Category: Best Casual Wear.

The registration fee for the pageant is $35, plus any optional categories in which the contestant chooses to participate. A complete list of optionals is listed on the pageant application. The scores for these Optionals are not included in the contestant’s total scores and are judged by a separate panel of judges.

Every contestant will receive a participation pageant crown and sash. Winners and alternates will be awarded in each category.

To download an application and see the pageant rules, visit www.sterlingmiss. org and click on the “Little Miss Firecracker” tab. For more questions, call (334) 313-5444. Payments by PayPal are accepted on the pageant website.

Brown Excels in Dance Contests

Marlee Brown, 8-year-old petite soloist at Centre for Performing Arts, has had a busy and successful 2012 dance season, having competed at six regional competitions in Birmingham. She received platinum and 2nd place overall at Kids Artistic Revue, a high gold at Masquerade Dance, platinum and 1st place overall at Revolution Talent and Platinum Dance, platinum and 3rd place overall at Applause Talent, and High Gold and 4th overall at Thunderstruck Dance.

Brown performs a high energy jazz routine to “Rockin’ Robin.” Her routine was choreographed by Kristin Ruby Carroll and her teacher is Karen Jordan. Brown is the daughter of Daniel and Tammy Brown of Prattville.

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The Capital City Streaks U12 Boys took home a championship medal at the 2012 AYSA State Cup May 4-6 in Decatur.

The boys had a rough start, losing 1-0 to Blast from Fairhope in their first game, and tying 3-3 with USC from Huntsville in their second game. Net goal differential landed the Streaks in the semi-finals where they beat BUSA 3-2 in overtime, sending them to the final game Sunday afternoon to face Blast from Fairhope for the second time in this tournament. The Streaks came out on top defeating Blast 4-2. Tryouts for the 2012-2013 season are coming in June.

Top row from left are: Marlon Taite, Julian Jett, Coach Michael Baugh, Tyler Lewin, Hunter Collins, Mohamad Zaied and Bo Lyons; bottom row: Adam Beaudry, Nick York, Andrew Harris, Dawson Davis and Garrett Taylor.

Interact with International Families Through Volunteer Opportunities

The International Officer School on Maxwell Air Force Base is looking for volunteers to assist with two outreach programs. This is a great opportunity for members of the River Region community to interact with international families from various countries and experience different cultures.

IOS provides education and training for international officers who will be attending the Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff College, or Air War College. The training focuses on enhancing the students’ understanding of the United States and preparing them to attend their individual college or school. Part of the IOS program is the International Family Orientation Program (IFOP). IFOP is a week-and-a-half program designed to help international officers’ families make the transition into American culture, society and language with the overall intent of reducing the anxiety and culture shock of living in a “foreign” country.

This year’s program is scheduled from June 25-July 3. The program is held from 8 a.m. to noon each weekday. Volunteers are needed to organize, supervise and engage in various activities: classroom instruction, local field trips, and nursery care.

The IOS Alabama Goodwill Ambassador (AGA) program is also in need of volunteers.

AGAs sponsor international families on a long-term basis. Sponsorships last anywhere from eight weeks to a year, depending on which college or school the officer is attending. AGAs receive training prior to starting their sponsorship and assist international families in a variety of ways to include: social gatherings (dinner, sporting events, local activities); car & home searches; location advice; and information on schools.

If you are interested in one or both of these volunteer opportunities, please contact Major Eric Reid, IOS, at (334) 953-1051.

Prattville Dancers Finish Strong Season

This dancing trio had a very successful competition season! During the 2012 season, they competed in five regional competitions in Birmingham. They were awarded a platinum and 2nd place overall at Kids Artistic Revue, high gold and 3rd place overall at Masquerade Dance, platinum and 1st place overall at Revolution Talent and Applause Talent and high gold and 1st place overall at Thunderstruck Dance. The dancers performed a lyrical piece to “This Little Light of Mine.” They are choreographed and coached by Kristen Ruby Carroll and Karen Jordan at the Centre for Performing Arts in Prattville. From left are Kinsley Spires, Madison Cooper and Marlee Brown.

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Capital City Streaks Soccer Team Wins Championship

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Family Spiritual News Science Camp at GracePointe CDC

July 16-20 Learn about science while having fun with cooking, art experiments and more.

Ages 4-7. $100 per child includes supply fee. The church is located at 1565 Ray Thorington Rd. in Montgomery. Call 220-7481 or 294-1164 or e-mail ktniel@gmail.com to register.

Children’s Patriot Camp

Children’s Patriot Camp will be held June 18-22 at The Vessel Room in the Union Station, downtown Montgomery. The Patriot Camp is designed to teach elementary aged children about the founding of our Great Nation. The one week camp is sponsored by His Vessel Ministries.

For more detailed information regarding the Children’s Patriot Camp or to register, please contact His Vessel Ministries at 334-356-4478 or info@hisvessel.org.

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Young Life Montgomery Hires New Area Director

Young Life Montgomery welcomes new Area Director Chris Campos. Campos came to know Christ through his involvement with Young Life at his high school in Savannah, Ga. He attended Furman University, where he was a volunteer Young Life leader all four years and on Student Staff for two years serving alongside the Greenville area director. He graduated from Furman in 2009.

From Furman, Campos went on full-time staff with Young Life in Macon, Ga., where he served and trained for three years. Macon Area Director Joel Kennedy describes Chris as “a determined, passionate, confident man, whom God has gifted to be an area director.”

Young Life is a nondenominational Christian ministry to high school students. The middle school ministry is called WyldLife. Leaders go into area schools, sporting events, plays, competitions, coffee shops and anywhere else the kids are to build friendships.

They meet weekly at gatherings called Club for music, fellowship, worship and an encounter with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. In the summer, staff and leaders take these kids to one of Young Life’s many camps for “the best week of their lives.” Young Life has been in Montgomery for more than 40 years. You can learn more about the mission of Young Life at www.younglife.org.

Anyone interested in volunteering or starting a Young Life Club at their middle or high school can call Campos at (334) 314-6015 when his tenure begins in Montgomery on June 25. We love to hear from Young Life alums, too.

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Area Students Receive DAR Good Citizen Honors

The Francis Marion Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution recently presented awards to seven local high school students as DAR Good Citizens. DAR Good Citizen Awards are given to recognize students who have demonstrated to an outstanding degree the qualities of: dependability, service to others, leadership and patriotism.

The award is given to a graduating senior selected by the school. There is only one DAR Good Citizen per school each year and it may be a girl or a boy.

Each DAR Good Citizen was given a Good Citizen pin and wallet card. The DAR Good Citizen Certificate was given to a school representative to be presented at the school’s awards day. The 2012 DAR Good Citizens are Mitchell Hardin Henry (Alabama Christian Academy), Kathleen Elizabeth Gillian (Edgewood Academy), Barbara Fortune Bradley (Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School), Madeline Pendley (Saint

James School), Emily Morgan Jackson (South Montgomery County Academy), Morgan Noelle Wynn (Stanhope Elmore High School), and Lauren Beth Kendrick (Trinity Presbyterian School).

The Francis Marion Chapter works with seven schools for DAR Good Citizens and for the first time all seven students participated in the voluntary essay contest. This contest is judged by three non-DAR judges and points come from their essay and personal achievements.

The essay topic is not known prior to the time it is written. The essay must be written in two hours and there is a 500-word limit.

Neatness and spelling do count in this handwritten essay. This year’s essay winner is Kathleen Elizabeth Gillian.

Each DAR Good Citizen winner was presented a book to place in their school libraries in their honor. The essay contest winner receives a book also for themselves.

The DAR Good Citizens attended the luncheon with their parents and a school representative.

From left are Morgan Wynn, Kathleen Gillian, Emily Jackson, Mitchell Henry, Madeline Pendley and Barbara Bradley.

Lauren Beth Kendrick is not pictured.

Clarke Wins State Dance Championship

Carmella Clarke, a student at Mann Dance Studio, recently took first place overall in the duet/solo category at the Alabama State Dance Championship in Bessemer. She also won a first place photogenic award at the 2012 VIP Dance Regional in Pensacola.

She is the daughter of Thomas and Theresa Clarke of Prattville.

Appointments are necessary

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Family Calendar Ongoing

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

Hands-On Gallery includes Granny’s Attic where you can try on clothes, uniforms, shoes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Discovery Boxes are filled with all kinds of Alabama history. Numerous handouts, videos on Selma to Montgomery March, Helen Keller, Mardi Gras and more. Photographs of Helen Keller on display.

The Archives museum galleries are FREE to the public.

Hours are Mon.-Sat., 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Please note: The Research Room is only open the 2nd Saturday of each month. 624 Washington Ave., Montgomery. Call 242-4435 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.

Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs which meet 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. While children are in Arts Clubs, parents are welcome to stay and browse our Gallery or Resource Library, or just wait in the kitchen with a soda! Studio space is also available on a lease basis. 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. Bring your hand-sewing project or sewing machine for a morning of sewing with the ladies. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building), Wetumpka, AL 36092. 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.

Bama Brushstrokes Art Club Meets 9 a.m., 2nd Saturdays of each month, Messiah Lutheran Church, 6670 Vaughn Road, Montgomery.

Club members include beginners, intermediate and advanced skill levels. Activities include seminars with well-known artists. Classes are taught by our members or guest artists. We share our talents with our community in various programs, such as the Memory Box Project for hospice patients through sponsorship by the Society of Decorative Painters. Our chapter creates finished paint projects and murals for various hospitals, libraries, and community-based organizations. For more info, contact Diana French, president, at garnet2@ bellsouth.net.

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. The CATA has four essential charitable and educational purposes: (1) to promote and develop the growth of tennis in central Alabama area by providing a variety of educational and charitable tennis programs and services; (2) to educate the community concerning the importance or tennis and the benefits that can be derived from tennis; (3) to expand the opportunities in the community for learning tennis and to offer opportunities for learning tennis to individuals who do not have access to tennis; and (4) to

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provide programs and services in the community that teach participants scholarship and fair play and that permit access to volunteers and instructors who can serve as positive role models and mentors. For event info, call Ernie Rains, CATA Community Coordinator, at 3241406 or e-mail www.centralalabama.usta.com.

The Children’s Hands-On Museum of Tuscaloosa A private, non-profit, community-based organization located at 2213 University Blvd. in downtown Tuscaloosa, next to City Hall. Current hours are MondayFriday 9 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Closed most holidays. Special programs are held for preschoolers weekly. Admission is $5 per person, with no charge for museum members or children under the age of 1 year.

Special discounts are available to schools. For info, call (205) 349-4235 or visit www.chomonline.org.

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

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

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

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

First White House of the Confederacy Open on Saturdays 9 a.m.-3 p.m. This year begins the commemoration of the 150th Anniversary of the Civil War. The First White House of the Confederacy played a significant role during the war and served as Jefferson Davis’ family residence from February-May 1861. Located at 644 Washington Avenue in downtown Montgomery, neighboring the Alabama Department of Archives and History. For more info or to tour the museum, call 242-1861 or visit www.firstwhitehouse.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 1-800240-9452 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 (274-0062 or www.blountculturalpark.org); Grace Episcopal Church (215-1422); Old Alabama Town (240-4005 or www. oldalabamatown.com); and Alabama Garden Trail (1-800-ALABAMA or www.touralabama.org).

W. A. Gayle Planetarium Public Shows offered Mon.-Thurs. and Sun. Admission $3.50/person, children under 5 free, seniors $2.50/person. Mon-Thurs. at 3 p.m.; Sun. at 2 p.m. 1010 Forest Ave. in Oak Park. Call 241-4799.

Imagine It! The Children’s Museum of Atlanta is a family-friendly space filled with interactive and educational hands-on exhibits for children age eight and under. Imagine It! also offers birthday parties, memberships and field trip tours. Museum hours: MondayFriday 10 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $11 plus tax for adults and children ages 2 and above. Imagine It! is located at 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. For more info, visit www.imagineitcma.org or call (404) 659-KIDS [5437].

Montgomery’s Freedom Rides Museum Road to Equality: The 1961 Freedom Rides yearlong

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exhibit features works of art from top Alabama artists and offers unique interpretations of one of the most pivotal desegregation events in the nation’s history.

Located in the capital city’s recently restored 1951 Greyhound Bus Station, the exhibit will remain open every Friday and Saturday from noon to 4 p.m. or by appointment throughout the year. For more info, visit www.freedomridesmuseum.org or www.montgomerybusstation.org 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 2651867 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.

Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street, 241-8615. 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 Stone Mountain Park, Georgia Enjoy the outdoors together, while experiencing a variety of attractions, entertainment and recreation. Visit the 1870s town of Crossroads and enjoy live entertainment, skilled craft demonstrations, shopping, dining and more.

Additional attractions include: the 4-D Theater, The Great Barn, Paddlewheel Riverboat, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, Antebellum Plantation and Farmyard, Pedal Boats, Mini-Golf, New Camp Highland Outpost and Treehouse Challenge, Discovering Stone Mountain Museum and the Antique Car & Treasure Museum. The Regular One-Day All Attractions Pass is $24 (plus tax) for ages 12 and up, and $19 (plus tax) children ages 3-11. For an additional fee, guests can also “Ride the Ducks” sightseeing tour. Required parking permit is $8 for one day or $35 for an annual permit. Exit 8, Stone Mountain Park off Hwy 78 in Georgia. Call (770) 4985690 or visit www.stonemountainpark.com.

Toastmasters International is an organization that was founded in 1924. Its mission is to help individuals with their communication and leadership skills. Each club provides an atmosphere where individuals can speak without being criticized or judged, yet provide effective evaluations. We also offer the opportunity to take on leadership roles as club president, vice president, and other officer positions that teach planning, time management, organizing and parliamentary procedures. Anyone 18 years or older can join Toastmasters. We currently have six clubs in the River Region. Toastmasters is now starting a club named The River Region Toastmasters in the Prattville/Millbrook area. Meet every Thursday at 6 p.m. at the Journey Church located at 2050 Commerce Street, just off I-65, exit 179. For more info, contact the interim president, Gene Ann Hildreth, at 361-6333 or alabamasoupgirl@aol.com.

Tales for Tots 10:30-11 a.m. June 6. Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Museum galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Call 2404365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

Classes

Bradley Method Natural Childbirth Classes

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Tuesdays at 6:30 p.m. at Zink Chiropractic Clinic, Course includes pregnancy exercise and nutrition, body changes during pregnancy, the coach’s role in pregnancy and natural birth, the stages of labor, breathing and relaxation for labor, common interventions and how to avoid them, breastfeeding, basic newborn care, and more.

Contact Lanette Tyler, 450-4605 or lanette.tyler@gmail. com; or visit www.bradleybirth.com Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes troubleshooting common problems to establish a successful breast-feeding experience. Usually the first Saturday of the month, from 9-11 a.m. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. FREE. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 to register or for more info.

Childbirth Basics Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year but are often held on the first Saturday of the month, from noon-2 p.m.. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 by your 4th month of pregnancy to register.

Childbirth Preparation Class This five-week class meets once a week to learn ways to prepare for labor, birth and early parenthood experiences. Monday or Tuesday class, 6:30-8:30 p.m., Baptist Medical Center East, $60. Call 273-4445 for dates and to register.

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 information 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.

Grandparent Class This program presents new concepts in newborn care to grandparents who need a refresher course. Usually one Tuesday per month. FREE. Call for schedule. Jackson Hospital. Call 293-8497.

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

Your Amazing Newborn One-night class taught by a pediatrician and nursing staff usually one Tuesday a month. This class presents new concepts in newborn care and helps alleviate parenting jitters often experienced by soon-to-be parents. Grandparents also welcome. Jackson Hospital.

FREE. For more info, call 293-8497.

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. Road to Recovery volunteers can be individual drivers with time to help others or even local companies who allow employees to provide transportation on company time in company cars. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month

Montgomery Parents I June 2012

is encouraged to volunteer. For more information, or to volunteer, please call Luella Giles at 612-8162 or call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345.

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.

Hospice Volunteers Through volunteering at Baptist Hospice, the opportunities to help are endless. Our volunteers are an important part of the patient’s care and are the heart of the hospice family. There are many other 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 so much to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. 87

Volunteer Services Jackson Hospital is looking for volunteers to work in key areas of the hospital. Volunteers provide an invaluable service to the hospital while making new friends and experiencing a fulfilling activity. Volunteers must be at least 19 years old and are asked to work 4 hours a week. They must complete an application and pass a background check and health screening. If you are interested in volunteering, call Linda Dean, Dir. of Volunteer Services, 293-8967.

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 information, call 286-3252 for Baptist Medical Center South and 361-4335 for Prattville Baptist Hospital.

Jackson Sleep Disorders Center Jackson Hospital houses a sleep disorders center on

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Family Calendar 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.

Jackson Hospital Offers Animal Therapy Program to Pediatric Unit 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.

Nolan Research Pays Kids for Toy Testing Nolan Research, 2569 Bell Road in Montgomery, conducts toy tests that pay $20 in cash to each child ages 4-12 that participates. Testing takes place usually between 5 and 7 p.m. and only takes about 30-45 minutes. Results are used to help toy manufacturers decide whether or not to bring new toys out on the market.

Please call 284-4164 to sign your child up and spread the word to any other families who may be interested in allowing their children to participate.

Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC), This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Thursdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more information, call 409-9477 or e-mail apac2@childrensaid.org.

Autauga/Elmore Group meets 4th Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Glynwood Baptist Church, Prattville. Childcare,

June 2012

children’s group and dinner provided. For more info, call 409-9477 or e-mail apac2@childrensaid.org.

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

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

Cancer Support

American Cancer Society, including Montgomery, Elmore, Autauga, & Macon Counties: **To access or sign up for these programs, call the American Cancer Society’s Montgomery office at 612-8162 or call 1-800-ACS-2345 and you will be connected to the Montgomery office.

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 Luella Giles at 612-8162 for more info.

Man to Man is an American Cancer Society support group for men who are battling or have survived prostate cancer. It offers them education, discussion and support. Please call for next meeting dates at the American Cancer Society Office in Montgomery.

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.

College scholarships to cancer survivors 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 www.cancer.org.

Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345 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 cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@ charter.net.

Divorce Support

Divorce Care, Grief Share, Divorce Care for Children, All three groups meet Sundays at 5 p.m. at Heritage Baptist Church, 1849 Perry Hill Rd. Call 279-9976.

Divorce Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 272-8622 for more info.

Grief Support

Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to

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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 of each month at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail Lynda Coats at farauthor@aol.com for more information.

“Big Leap!” start date TBD Tuesdays at 4:30 p.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced the recent loss of a loved one. This group will provide a hands-on, safe space for age-appropriate expression of grief. These sessions will aim to increase feeling identification, decrease self-blame or guilt, and build coping skills.

Through music, art, and play we will meet your child or grandchild on their level. We will encourage your children to hold tight to their memories as they make a “big leap” into their new future. This group is open to children ages 7-11. Space is limited to 6 participants so call 279-6677. Start date will be determined once reservations are confirmed. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW “Comfort and Conversation,” Wednesdays at 11 a.m., Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). This group will offer you a safe place to bring your thoughts and emotions. Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. Space is limited, so please call 279-6677. Facilitator: Lee Lowry, MSW Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. Please call 284-2721 for more info.

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

Grief Recovery After Suicide, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., first Tuesdays from 5:30-6:30 p.m. in Room 3102. This group is open to family members and friends who have lost a loved one as the result of suicide. Group offers a confidential environment in which to receive support, hope and information. Contact Rev. Susan Beeson, 272-8622.

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.

HALO organization offers grief counseling for parents and siblings suffering the loss of a child from 20 weeks gestation up to the age of 2. Not only do they offer counseling, but also offer free photography services and help with funeral expenses as well as many other things.

More information is available at www.honoringangelslikeowen.org. This faith-based organization was started by two parents grieving the loss of their own child.

Homeschool Support

ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization), Coosada Baptist Church on Coosada Road, Coosada. 2nd and 4th Fridays year-round from 10 a.m. to noon. This

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Family Calendar is a support group for homeschooling families in the tricounty area. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com PEAK of Montgomery Homeschool Group Parent Educators and Kids (PEAK) of Montgomery is an inclusive, member-led group of homeschooling families who meet regularly for field trips, park days and other social and educational activities. We welcome all local home educators who enjoy sharing and learning within a diverse community. To join us, visit us at www.peaknetwork.org/montgomery

Illness Support

Alzheimer’s and Dementia Day Care, Frazer Memorial UMC, Thursdays, in Room 3101, from 9:30 a.m. to noon. There is no charge, but registration is required. For more information, call the Congregational Care office at 272-8622. On the first Thursday of each month, the hours are extended to 12:30 p.m. while the Caregivers’ Support Group meets in Room 3103 beginning at 11 a.m. Only during this time will each participant need to bring a sack lunch. For the support group, call the church at 272-8622.

This new series is for all patients with congestive heart failure and their caregivers. This series is FREE for all participants. Below is the information: Cardiolife, a new educational series for congestive heart failure patients and their caregivers, meets 4th Thursdays of each month, 10-11 a.m. Diabetes Center classroom, Jackson Hospital. For more info, call 279-6677. Topics include: Lifestyle Changes, A Heart Healthy Diet, Proper Fluid Intake, Importance of Daily Weights and Exercise Tolerance. Support for this program provided by River Region Supportive Care – a Division of Hospice of Montgomery. Facilitated by Arla Chandler, RN, BSN, MBA.

Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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Depression/Bipolar Support Alliance, Room 3101 at Frazer UMC, 1st Thursdays from 7-8:30 p.m. This group is for those with depression and bipolar illness and their families. For more info, call 272-8622 or visit dbsamontgomery@yahoo.com Meetings also available 3rd Saturday afternoons from noon-2 p.m. at Dalraida UMC, 3817 Atlanta Highway.

For more info, call 652-1431.

Depression & Bipolar Support, Montgomery Public Library Main Branch, 245 High Street downtown, 2nd Floor Meeting Room, 3rd Saturdays, Noon-2 p.m.; OR 1609 West Street, north off Carter Hill and Narrow Lane, 2nd Tuesdays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Call 201-9638 or 652-1431 for more info.

Fibromyalgia Support, Room 8114 at Frazer UMC, 3rd Tuesdays from 6-8 p.m. This group is for those that have fibromyalgia and for their family members and friends. For more info, please call 272-8622.

Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance.

GIG-Montgomery assists with awareness of diverse potential symptoms, which can range from fatigue and headaches to nausea and intestinal problems. 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 4th Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (faces entrance of EastChaseNE. Turn on Berryhill Rd by Eastchase). For more info, e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit http://gfmontgomery.blogspot.com or the group’s Facebook page.

Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus

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of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info.

NAMI Montgomery is offering “Family to Family,” a FREE 12-week education course open to all caregivers of adults with mental illness. Classes begin Thursday, Nov. 3, and meet weekly from 6-8:30 p.m. at Montgomery Public Library’s Lowder Branch, 2590 Bell Road. Registration required. Call Mary Jo Logan, 271-2280, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4 p.m.

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

Parkinson’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 4th Thursdays at 6:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Group is for Parkinson’s patients and their family members. For more info, call 272-8622.

PSP (Progressive Supranuclear Palsey) Support meets 2nd Tuesdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in Room 3104 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group is for family members of patients suffering from Progressive Supranuclear Palsey. The group focuses on personal experiences and sharing, provides information and resources, and helps family members deal with the struggles that accompany PSP. For more information, call 272-8622.

Sjogren’s Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, meets 3rd Tuesdays from 6:30-8 p.m. in room 3104. This group is for those with Sjogren’s disease and the family members of those affected by this disease. For more info, call 272-8622.

Tourette Syndrome & Tic Disorder Support meets 2nd Tuesdays at 6 p.m. in Room 3101 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Meet others who are concerned about Tourette Syndrome, share experiences, ask questions,

www.montgomeryparents.com

Family Calendar and learn more about the disorder. For more information, call 546-0353 or e-mail TSgroupmontgomery@ yahoo.com.

Veterans OEF/OIF Caregivers Support Group meets 3rd Wednesdays from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. in Room 3108 at Frazer Memorial UMC. This group provides support and understanding to those caring for OEF/OIF Veterans. For more information, contact Joy Germanos, LCSW, PIP, Caregiver Support Coordinator at CAVHCS, (334) 725-2542.

Moms Support

iConnect, Frazer Memorial UMC, 3rd Thursdays from 9-11:30 a.m. in the Parlor. Share life, encourage and be encouraged by other women. We meet for breakfast, fellowship and a speaker. Advance reservations are necessary for breakfast and preschool nursery. Cost is $5 per meeting. For more info or to make reservations, call Frazer’s Women’s Ministry at 495-6391 or e-mail Sandy Boswell at sandy@frazerumc.org La Leche League of Montgomery, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 2810 Atlanta Hwy., 3rd Fridays, 10 a.m. Leaders are experienced breastfeeding mothers who have completed an accreditation program and are familiar with breastfeeding management techniques as well as current research. Meetings are free and open to all women. Expecting moms, babies and children also welcome. If you need information before the next scheduled meeting, please call or e-mail Bridgit (569-1500 or bridgitbroom@gmail.com) Making Our Mothering Matter (MOMM), First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the fellowship hall at First Baptist Church in Prattville. We offer a time for fellowship, Bible study and special guest speakers. Cost is $5

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June 2012

per meeting to cover childcare expenses, crafts and operating expenses. Childcare reservations are required. For more info, call Stacie Pruitt at 361-3386.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. Moms, are you looking for a good excuse to get out of the house?

MOPS is a great opportunity to hone your mothering skills, meet new friends, and learn new things while deepening your relationship with God. Come join us on April 4 and on April 18. Free childcare is provided. For more info, call Andrea McGregor at 799-7847, Laura Forman at 306-0352 or visit www.montgomeryfbc.org.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9-11 a.m. MOPS is a non-denominational Christian organization open to all mothers of preschoolers, regardless of religious beliefs. The program does include childcare. For more info, please call Vaughn Forest Church at 279-5433 or e-mail vfcmops@gmail.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.

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.

Single Parents Support

Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC,

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Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby.

Call 272-8622 for more info.

TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 7-8 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. For reservations, call 272-8622.

Special Needs Support

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.

Down Syndrome Support, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 1st Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Childcare provided. Call 356-9048 or visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com for information.

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.

Licensed audiologists make brief presentations explaining their local programs, their offices and the availability of hearing tests, of possible medical corrections, and/ of hearing aids and cochlear implants. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@ earthlink.net Parents of Special Needs Children, Saint James UMC, 9045 Vaughn Road, 1st Sundays, 5-6:30 p.m. Please notify Chris Henderson if you plan to come. (Home: 2150427; e-mail: chenderson41@yahoo.com

Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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River Region Autism Support Group, Cafe Louisa (in Old Cloverdale), 1036 E. Fairview Ave. We meet on 1st Saturdays from 4-6 p.m. This group is comprised of parents whose children are on the autism spectrum.

We also welcome others involved with autistic children, such as grandparents, friends, teachers, therapists, etc. For more info about how to join the group, or if you plan to attend a meeting, e-mail Lyra Stephens at LyraStephens@yahoo.com

Teens/Families Support

Life is Fun Together (LIFT): A FREE Relationship and Marriage Enrichment Program providing different educational and fun-filled seminars to individuals and families. The LIFT Program is provided through Family Guidance Center of Alabama in partnership with the Alabama Community Healthy Marriage Initiative. Call Tonya Rogers at 2704100 for class start dates or more info!

“Relationship Smarts Plus” teaches teens in grades 7-12 about healthy relationships in a fun, interactive way.

Six-week sessions are available throughout the year on Mondays from 4–6 p.m.

“Smart Steps for Stepfamilies” is a six-week session that helps stepfamilies learn strategies to strengthen and stabilize their families. Parents and children ages 8 and up meet in their own groups, then meet up at the end of each session for a fun family activity!

“Together We Can” gives non-married parents the skills they need to maintain healthy relationships between themselves and their children.

“How to Avoid Marrying a Jerk (or Jerkette)” teaches single adults how to get the most out of dating.

“Mastering the Magic of Love” is a communication class for all couples. Bring your spouse, fiancé, or that special someone in your life with you to learn new communication techniques and enhance your

Montgomery Parents I June 2012

skills as a team of two. All adults are welcome, including graduates looking for a refresher!

Also…. LIFT has a brand-new program just for parents of teens!!! “Bridging the Great Divide: Parents and Teens Communicating About Healthy Relationships” is perfect for parents or guardians who want open lines of communication with their teen. Topics include “Principles of Dating & Healthy Relationships,” “Sensitive Topics,” “Rules & Boundaries,” and more!!! Building D of Family Guidance Center, 2358 Fairlane Drive.

This workshop lasts only three weeks, so call TODAY to reserve your spot!

You can look at a calendar of LIFT classes & events online by visiting our LIFT web page: http://www. familyguidancecenter.org/ Remember, LIFT has FREE programs for singles, couples, stepfamilies, parents, teens, and now parents of teens! Call 270-4100 or e-mail trogers@familyguidancecenter.org if you didn’t see your class listed so we can contact you when the next one starts.

Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents. This group began March 29 using the life skills training. Contact Felicia Pressley at Total Life Connection, 244-5061.

This Month Friday, June 1

Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 mths - 3 yrs) Zoo Animals at 10 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol. com or 334-271-3264.

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Music and Storytime for Babies (Newborn - 15 months) Peek-a-Boo at 11:15 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute themebased music class filled with singing, instrument play, scarf play, dancing, bubbles, and a storytime. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol. com or 334-271-3264.

Coosa River Whitewater Festival -- Through June 3 Admission charged. Coosa Outdoor Center Campgrounds, Wetumpka. Whitewater event for competitors and spectators featuring a kayaking rodeo, sit-on-top events, stand-up paddle board events, river boarding, canoeing, big-air ramp event and more for beginners to pros, children and land lovers. All day and into the night on Fri. & Sat. with live bands. Call 800-874-3528 or visit www.coosariverwhitewaterfestival.com New Waters Realty Sponsors The Waters Weekend, Tour of Homes -- Through June 3 1-6 p.m. daily. The tour will include food, fun and great prizes. More than eight homes will be open for tours with special incentives available throughout the weekend.

Visitors will be able to tour homes from John Wieland Homes & Neighborhoods, Distinctive Homes and Ridgecrest Properties. For details, contact New Waters Realty at 272-3200 or visit www.TheWatersAL.com.

Late Night with YMCA Goodtimes Also June 8, 15, 22 & 29 A weekly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of five-to 12-year-olds offered at the YMCA Goodtimes Center on Bell Road. Time is 6:30-11:30 p.m. and supper is included. Cost is $15 per child and no reservations are required. Child to staff ratio is 15:1.

Call 279-8878 for more info.

Wetumpka Depot Presents Wiley and the Hairy Man -- Through June 9 Drawn from an Alabama folktale, this is the story of a

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Family Calendar young boy named Wiley, who lives near the Tombigbee River with his mother and his faithful hound dogs. The clever and menacing Hairy Man also inhabits the mysterious swampland. He haunts Wiley’s days and invades his dreams. “Outwit the Hairy Man three times and he won’t scare you ever again,” advises Mother. So Wiley sets out into the swamp to confront the Hairy Man. For audiences young and young at heart! For tickets, visit www.wetumpkadepot.com or call 868-1440.

Blackberry & Blueberry Picking at Barber Berry Farm -- Through Mid-July More than three acres of blackberries and blueberries, a variety of fruit trees and vegetables from a hydroponic vegetable garden. Mon., Wed. & Fri., 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Call (334) 549-4710 or visit www. barberberryfarm.com for details.

Summer Fun at Callaway Gardens -- Through September 4 Bring the whole family for the Florida State University Flying High Circus performances, swimming, shuffleboard, miniature golf, and much more. For a small fee you can have a ton of fun playing on Aqua Island, Blaster Boats and Laser Tag. Beach open: May 25-September 4. Circus open: June 2-August 3 (daily performances except Mondays and Wednesdays). For more info, call 1-800-CALLAWAY (225-5292) or visit www.callawaygardens.com.

Dora Exhibit Coming to Birmingham -- Through September 4 “The Dora & Diego: Let’s Explore Exhibit” will be at the McWane Science Center in downtown Birmingham.

The exhibit features beloved characters Dora and Diego from Nickelodeon’s preschool series Dora the Explorer and Go, Diego, Go!, along with their friends Boots, the Map, Backpack, Isa, continuing Tico, and of course Swiper, now

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in their own exhibit for children to explore as they learn and play along. Visit www.mcwane.org for details.

Jasmine Hill Gardens and Outdoor Museums Open in Wetumpka -- Weekends Through October 27 Japanese cherries, bulbs and many flowering shrubs are in bloom when the 20-acre Jasmine Hill Gardens opens for the season. Stroll through Greek statuary and enjoy the outdoors. Fri. & Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., noon-5 p.m. Call 567-6463 or visit www.jasminehill.org for more info.

sale from 7 a.m. to noon in the parking lot at Town Hall.

Individuals and businesses can reserve spaces for $25 until the day of the event. For more information, call Charlene Rabren at 272-9883.

Family Fun Nights at Eastdale Mall Saturdays through August 4 Eastdale Mall’s Family Fun Nights provide families in the River Region with an exciting evening filled with hands-on activities, story times, performances presented by area attractions and discounts from participating mall merchants. Family Fun Nights are scheduled between Saturday, June 2 5 and 7 p.m. Children 10 and under will be able to ice Home Depot Kids’ Workshop skate for free and ride the carousel for half price during Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills Family Fun Nights.

Summer at the Rock (Stone Mountain, Georgia) and tool safety, while at the same time helping to instill a sense of accomplishment. This month’s project is Through July 29 build an organizer for Dad! In addition to the newly The adventures ensue this summer with Summer at the constructed project kit, each child receives a kid-sized Rock presented by Humana. Experience exciting attractions daily such as the all-new Geyser Towers, familyorange apron, similar to The Home Depot associates’ friendly entertainment including the new Parrots of aprons, and an achievement pin. 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free.

Rio show and a nightly Lasershow! Be sure to save on Annual Daylily Plant Sale tickets with the Family Value Pass. Stone Mountain is located 16 miles east of downtown Atlanta, on Highway Hosted by Montgomery Area Daylily Society at Eastdale Mall, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Not your grandmother’s ditch 78. For 24-hour park lilies! We are offering only registered named daylily info, call 800-401-2407 or visit www.stonemountainvarieties. Each plant is newly dug from our local MADS park.com. members’ gardens. All plants have a label with cultivar The Shoppes at EastChase Farmers’ Market name, hybridizer, color, height, size of bloom, and Every Saturday through August 25 Contemporary in Wesley7Hall rebloom information.

Two plants/fans Service for $5. Hundreds a.m.-noon in the parking lot between Dillard’s and of varieties and many bloom colors. Call Terese Goodson Earth Fare Organic Grocer. The Farmers’ Market proat 334-288-6024 or 334-354-2854. E-mail: etbgoodson@ ducers and growers offer unique items such as organic aol.com meats and milk, goat cheese, natural bath products and Town of Pike Road Community Yard Sale hand-made soaps, honey, sprout breads and fruit pastries In conjunction with the World’s Widest Yard Sale, the all made from locally grown ingredients. For more in the traditional Service Town of Pike Road will host its annual community yard information, call 279-6046.

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Sunday, June 3

Auditions at the Wetumpka Depot for Panache Also June 4 We often find that when we search for one thing, we find something unexpected and much more important.

That is just one of the themes woven through Panache, a tender comedy that revolves around two very different people who ultimately discover they are much more alike than they are different. Auditions will be held Sunday at 2 p.m. and Monday at 7 p.m. at the Wetumpka Depot, 300 South Main Street in Wetumpka. The play is written by Don Gordon and will be directed by Tom Salter. There are roles for one female, age 40 to 50, one female age 18 to 25, one male age 40 – 50, one male age 18 – 25, and one male age 30 – 45 who is a “tough guy” type. The play is set in New York, so a relatively neutral dialect is needed.

Those wishing to audition or anyone who may be interested in working with costumes, lights, set construction, props or stage management should attend one of the auditions. Resumes are welcome, but not necessary. Actors should prepare a short monologue (as close to one minute as practical) from a contemporary comedy. Rehearsals begin June 17 and the play runs July 26-August 11. For more info, e-mail kmeanor@wetumpkadopot. com or call 334-868-1440.

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Auditions Actresses for Jack Heifner’s Patio/Porch Also June 4 7 p.m. Auditions will take place in the theatre at the Prattville Cultural Arts Center at 203 West 4th Street in downtown Prattville. Auditions will include some storytelling exercises and readings from the script. All parts are open and will be cast from these auditions.

The script explores the relationships between sisters in Patio and mothers and daughters in Porch. Both are set in a small Southern town in the heat of summer and have

Montgomery Parents I June 2012

a mixture of humorous and dramatic elements. Play director William Harper is looking for women between the ages of 30 and 75. Mature actresses are especially encouraged to audition.

Patio/Porch runs weekends July 26-August 12. For more info, visit wobt.prattvilleal.gov or call the Cultural Arts Office at (334) 358-0297.

Sunday Kids’ Day at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Games -- Also June 10 $5 all-you-can-play wristbands give kids unlimited inflatable time at Big Mo’s Dugout! Kids can also create custom posters, megaphones and baseball fans for free. After the game, kids have the opportunity to run the bases courtesy of Coke. For details, visit www.biscuitsbaseball. com or call 323-2255.

Monday, June 4

Jefferson Davis Birthday Commemoration In front of the State Capitol. Event includes a short program on Davis’s life, the placing of a wreath at his statue, and a birthday cake at the First White House of the Confederacy, where Jefferson Davis lived in the spring of 1861. 10 a.m.-noon. Free. Call 365-4713.

Youth Swimming Lessons in Prattville Ages 3 and up. $50 per child (additional $10 for residents outside of city limits). There will be no refunds once a session begins. Days lost to inclement weather will not be made up. Times: 10:15-11 a.m.; 11:05-11:50 a.m.; 5:40-6:25 p.m. 1st session: June 4-15; 2nd session: June 18-29; 3rd session: July 2-13; and 4th session: July 16-27. Call 334-361-3640.

Tuesday, June 5

“Your Amazing Newborn” Class Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1, from 6:30-8:30 p.m.

FREE. One-night class taught by a pediatrician and nursing staff. Presents new concepts in newborn care

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and helps alleviate parenting jitters by soon-to-be parents. Grandparents welcome. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 293-8497 or visit www. jackson.org/events.

Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 mths - 3 yrs) At the Beach at 10 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

Music and Storytime for Preschoolers (3-5 yrs) At the Beach 11:15 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator,Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

Wednesday, June 6

Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 mnths-3 yrs) At the Beach 5:45 p.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

Thursday, June 7

There’s An App for That—Let’s Get Artsy Class at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

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Family Calendar 6-8 p.m. The app workshops continue with a special focus on art apps. Learn how to paint, edit and record your own artistic creations using a range of iPhone and iPad applications. Instructor: Tim Brown. Cost: $15 members/ $25 non-members. Visit www.mmfa.or or call 240-4333 to register.

Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 mths-3 yrs) God Made Me Special 10 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

Music and Storytime for Families (Newborn-5 yrs) Our Day at 11:15 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based family music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, and a storytime. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

Faulkner Dinner Theatre Presents The Three Musketeers -- Through June 23 Theatre doors open at 6 p.m. Dinner is served from 6:15 until 7. The show begins promptly at 7:30.

Tickets are $25 and include dinner and the show. Members of the military can purchase tickets for just $20.

Reservations must be paid in advance. Make reservations or for more information, call 386-7190 or e-mail boxoffice@faulkner.edu.

Friday, June 8

Parents’ Night Out at the Wetumpka Family YMCA A monthly Parents’ Night Out program for parents of kids 12 years and under offered the 2nd Friday of each month from 6-10 p.m. Games, arts and crafts, a movie and hot dogs are offered. Cost is $10 per child for members and $15 per child for non-members. You must register by the Thursday prior. Call 567-8282 for more info.

AUM Hosts School’s Out for Summer Bash Bring the kids to celebrate from 6-8 p.m. on the quad and enjoy food, games and a family-friendly band.

Admission is free, but guests are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item for the Montgomery Food Bank. The event is the first installment of the third annual AUM Summer Concert Series. Back by popular demand, Tuskegee soul/funk band D’Zyre will headline with tunes like “My Girl,” “Brick House,” “No Parking on the Dance Floor” and “Stand by Me.” Outdoor games and activities will be offered, including sidewalk chalk, bubbles, coloring pages, Frisbees, and hula-hoops. AUM mascot Curtiss the Warhawk will also pop in for a visit. Bring your own lawn chairs and picnic blankets. Outside food is welcome, but Boomer T’s Barbecue will sell hamburgers, hot dogs, barbeque, loaded nachos, drinks and snacks (credit cards and cash accepted). In case of inclement weather, festivities will be moved inside the AUM Physical Education Complex. Learn more at www.aum.edu/summerconcert.

Alexander City Jazz Fest -- Also June 9 Free. Strand Park, Alex City. Fri., 6 p.m. and at Lake Martin Amphitheatre (The AMP), Sat., 6:30-11 p.m.

Call (256) 234-3461 or visit www.alexandercitychamber.com for details.

ECHO (Elmore County Homeschool Organization) Monthly Meetings -- Also June 22 ECHO is a support group for homeschooling families in the tri-county area. The group usually meets the 2nd and 4th Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Coosada Baptist Church on Coosada Road,

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Coosada. Membership is free. For more info, please visit http://www.onlineecho.com

Saturday, June 9

Indoor/outdoor Yard Sale Sponsored by Millbrook Community Players 6:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Call 334-782-7317 for more information or to reserve your space.

Prepared Childbirth Class Provides childbirth information for those who choose to have pain relief during labor and delivery. Topics include stages of labor, breathing and relaxation techniques, the role of the coach, and proper care of mother and baby after delivery. Sessions are taught throughout the year, from 10 a.m.-noon. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $25. Call 293-8497 or e-mail liz. owen@jackson.org.

Tallassee Now! BBQ & Music Fest Free. Tallassee Historical District, on the green at City Hall. Great BBQ, music on three stages, gospel, bluegrass, country, classic rock and kids’ activities. 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Call (334) 283-5151 or visit www.tallasseechamber.com Stand for Children Day 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Eastdale Mall, Center Court (in front of the Ice Rink). Organizations that provide services to children age birth to 5 years of age will set up FREE ACTIVITIES for the children and have available free information for parents on topics dealing with child safety, health and development. Sponsored by the Early Care and Education Partnership of Montgomery County. For more info, call Mary Jo Logan, 271-2280.

Baby Boot Camp Sponsored by Baptist Health An abbreviated version of the Childbirth Preparation/ Lamaze Class offered by Baptist Health. Registered nurse instructors discuss birthing methods (including Cesarean), comfort measures for labor, medications and anesthesia options (including epidurals), postpartum care and baby care basics. Coping techniques (including Lamaze) are included in this class. This class meets from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Baptist Breast Health Center Classroom, Winton Blount Blvd. The fee is $45. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required.

Class sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required.

For more info, please call 273-4445.

Maternity Area Tour @ Baptist Medical Center East A tour of the Labor/Delivery/Recovery (LDR), Postpartum and Nursery areas is offered to those not attending the Childbirth Preparation Class (a tour is provided as part of that class). Please meet in the main lobby of Baptist Medical Center East, 400 Taylor Rd., 10 minutes before the scheduled tour. The tour is at 10:30 a.m. Tour sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required. For more info, call 273-4445.

Riverfront Park FREE Family Event Offered the second Saturday of every month from 5-8 p.m. Actvities will include: live entertainment, interactive activities for all ages (bocce ball & more), food vendors and cocktails served from the SandBAR! Vendors include: iCantina, Dreamland, Peppertree Steaks and Wines, Cheezie’s Pizza, Nancy’s Italian Ice, Spacewalker, Bruster’s Ice Cream and Nathan’s Hotdogs. For more information, call 625-2100.

Old Alabama Town Saturday Jam Sessions Also June 23 9 a.m.-noon at the 1840s Rose House. Musicians, bring your acoustic instruments and join the fun! Admission to the jam sessions is free; tickets to tour Old Alabama Town are available at the Reception Center. For more info, call 240-4500 or visit www.oldalabamatown.com.

MainStreet Alexander City Farmers’ Market Through October 29 At the Fountain on Broad Street, Alex City. Local

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farmers, craftsmen and craftswomen present fruits, vegetables, honey, butters, plants, bird houses and more. 7-11:30 a.m. Call (256) 329-9227 or visit www. mainstreetac.org for details.

Monday, June 11

Infant Safety/CPR Sponsored by Baptist Health Also June 12 Childproofing methods, care of the choking infant, infant rescue breathing and infant CPR skills are covered with hands-on practices using ACTAR CPR doll for class participants. Class meets at 6 p.m. on designated Mondays or Tuesdays in the classroom at the Baptist Breast Health Center, Winton Blount Blvd. $10 per person. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required.

Class sizes are limited and pre-registration is required.

For more info, call 273-4445.

Babysitting Training Workshop -- Also June 12 Doster Community Center, Prattville. Ages 11-15.

This course covers safety, first aid, professionalism, leadership and care-giving skills. Also includes tips for getting baby-sitting jobs. These courses covers certification I baby-sitters’ training. Hours are 9 a.m.4 p.m. first day (bring your lunch) and 9 a.m.-noon second day. Fees are $85 (includes baby-sitter’s handbook, baby-sitter’s pin, class material and baby-sitter’s backpack) for first day or $25 (includes certification and handbook only) for second day. Check payable to: American Red Cross. Call 361-3640 to pre-register!

Alabama Dance Theatre Summer Classes Through July 29 Classes offered in classical ballet (pre-ballet to the professional level), pointe and variations, pas de deux, dance history, composition, modern, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, and tap. Highlights of summer classes include classical ballet training to the professional level and creative movement classes open to ages 3 to 7. A new class “back to dance” will be offered for former dancers returning to classes. Classes will be held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue. For more info, call 2412590 or visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com.

Wednesday, June 13

Prenatal Breastfeeding Class sponsored by Baptist Health Provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding. Partners are welcome to participate. Class meets 6-8:15 p.m. in the classroom at the Baptist Breast Health Center, Winton Blount Blvd. $15 per family. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required.

Class sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required.

For more info, call 273-4445.

Thursday, June 14

AtlantaFest - Through June 16 Make plans now for AtlantaFest, a 3-day celebration of worship, concerts and speakers featuring TobyMac, Jeremy Camp, Casting Crowns, Lecrae and more! Hotel packages also available. Visit www.stonemountainpark. com or call 800-401-2407.

Friday, June 15

Free storytelling and activities Held at Rosa Parks Museum from 8am to 3 pm.

Saturday, June 16

Alabama Nature Center General Public Weekend Also June 17 Enjoy hiking five miles of scenic ANC trails while learning about the fascinating natural history of central Alabama. You can even add to the outdoor experience with a tasty picnic under or around the ANC pavilion.

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Family Calendar Sat., 8 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun., 1-5 p.m. Call 285-4550 or visit www.alabamawildlife.org.

Sickle Cell Walk Registration is from 8 to 9 am at Union Station in Downtown Montgomery. Culture Fest begins at 10 am.

100% of proceeds will benefit the Greater Montgomery Sickle Cell Foundation. Free Sickle Cell Screenings along with blood pressure checks, Live bands, DJ and performances from local talent. Contact 669-0170 with questions.

Sunday, June 17

Callaway Gardens Fitness Series: Sprint Triathlon The Sprint Triathlon is a ¼-mile swim, 10-mile bike, and 2-mile run. Expectations are that this event will become one of the most popular of its kind in the country.

This is the third of six events for the annual Callaway Gardens Fitness Series. Register at www.active.com.

Thursday, June 21

ArchiTreats: Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and a drink and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Today’s topic is “History of Automobile License Plates in Alabama,” presented by Ross Sloan. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov.

The Cloverdale Playhouse Presents Starting Here, Starting Now -- Through June 24; Also June 28-July 1 A memorable revue of songs that enchant, inspire, get the toes tapping and the hearts fluttering. Performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thurs.-Sat.; 2 p.m. Sun. *May not be suitable for children under 12 years old. Call (334) 2621530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org

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June 2012

Military Day at the Montgomery Zoo FREE ADMISSION for military personnel and their families. Also, located in our main events area, complimentary food, snacks and beverages will be served.

Food begins being served at 11 a.m. Presentations begin at noon. Visit www.montgomeryzoo.com or call 240-4900.

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Happy Together Tour 7 p.m. Tickets: $47. Some of the greatest pop/rock artists of the ‘60s all together… On Tour! Starring: The Turtles featuring Flo & Eddie; The Monkees lead singer Micky Dolenz; Gary Puckett & The Union Gap; The Grass Roots; and The Buckinghams. For tickets, visit www.mpaconline.org or call 481-5100.

Friday, June 22

Alabama Sports Festival Foundation Hosts the 30th Anniversary State Games in Birmingham Through June 24 Featuring Taekwondo tournament directed by Master Anne Docarmo and Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center of Montgomery. Docarmo brings more than 40 years of Taekwondo experience and professionalism.

The Taekwondo event will take place June 23 at the Gardendale Civic Center. Register at alagames.com and participate in our Opening Ceremonies on June 22, televised statewide!

Music and Storytime for Toddlers (16 mths - 3 yrs) At My House at 10 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class with songs about your home, with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. The cost is $8

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per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol. com or 334-271-3264.

Music and Storytime for Preschoolers (3-5 yrs ) Camping in the Great Outdoors 11:15 a.m.

Allegro School of Fine Arts for Preschoolers at First Baptist Church Montgomery will host a 45-minute theme-based music class filled with singing, music and movement, instrument play, dancing, a storytime and an art activity. The cost is $8 per child. To register or for more info, contact licensed Kindermusik educator Sarah Hall at Hallhome96@aol.com or 334-271-3264.

Saturday, June 23

Little Miss Firecracker Pageant in Prattville Doster Center. The pageant is open to young girls, ages 1 month to 17 years, who live in Alabama. Applications for the pageant are due no later than Wednesday, June 13. The pageant is also seeking vendors but space is limited. Division groups Babies to Petite Miss (up to age 5) will compete at 10 a.m. and Little Miss to Teen Miss (ages 6-17) at 3 p.m. Additional times may be added as needed. This is a semi-natural pageant where age-appropriate attire and a “natural” look are stressed.

Attire for the competition is age-appropriate casual wear. To download an application and see pageant rules, visit www.sterlingmiss.org and click on the “Little Miss Firecracker” tab. For more info, visit our website or call (334) 313-5444. Payments by PayPal are accepted on the pageant website.

Friday, June 29

Robert E. Lee Class of 1976 Reunion -- Also June 30 Friday, 6-10 p.m. Arrowhead Country Club; Saturday,

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7:05 p.m. Baseball fun at Biscuits Stadium. Please visit www.lee76.myevent.com Family Faith Night at the Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Stadium Gates open at 5:30 p.m. and a faith-based performer begins at 5:50 p.m. Local churches and pastors are recognized and a wholesome environment allows churches to join in fellowship at the game. Stick around after the game for a MAX Fireworks Spectacular! Visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call 323-2255 for more info.

Monday, July 2

Childbirth Preparation/Lamaze sponsored by Baptist Health -- Mondays through July 30 Registered nurse instructors discuss birthing methods (including Cesarean), comfort measures for labor, medications and anesthesia options (including epidurals), postpartum care and baby care basics. Coping techniques (including Lamaze) are included. Expectant couples participating in this comprehensive class series will attend class once a week for five consecutive weeks. This class meets 6-8 p.m. in the classroom at the Baptist Breast Health Center, 6880 Winton Blount Blvd.

Fee is $60. A 25 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

ID required. Class sizes are limited and pre-pregistration is required. For more info, call 273-4445.

Wednesday, July 4

July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party at Callaway Gardens Spend the day at Robin Lake Beach and enjoy beach games, live music and fabulous fireworks. Visit www. callawaygardens.com or call 1-800-CALLAWAY. Annual Boat Parade Presented by Russell Marine Kowaliga Marina, Alexander City. Boats of all sizes, shapes and decorations parade from Kowaliga Marina to

Children’s Harbor, circling just past the lighthouse and back to Kowaliga Marina. Top honors for tallest flag, largest flag, most patriotic and most creative. Visit www. russellmarine.net or call 857-2111.

4th of July Music Blast and Fireworks at Lake Martin Amphitheater Gates open at 5 p.m. Music, 6-9 p.m. Fireworks 9-9:45 p.m. FREE events. Visit www.russelllandsonlakemartin. com or call (334) 857-2111.

Independence Day at Old Alabama Town Spend the holiday learning how early Alabamians of all backgrounds lived and worked in central Alabama.

Open for self-guided tours from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Visit www.oldalabamatown.com or call 240-4500.

Prattville Independence Day Celebration Downtown. Free. Parade begins at 9 a.m. at the Autauga County Courthouse. Afterward, the Lions Club BBQ and Camp Stew Sale will take place at Pratt Park at 10 a.m., as well as the “Cardboard Boat Races” at the City Pool. Fireworks will be at dark at Stanley-Jensen Stadium. Gates open at 6 p.m. Live entertainment and food vendors. Call (334) 358-0297 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov Wetumpka’s 4th of July Celebration Free. Behind City Administrative Building. Live entertainment, street dance, free children’s activities and fireworks. 5 p.m. until. Call 567-5147 or visit www. cityofwetumpka.com

Saturday, July 7

Breastfeeding Class Breastfeeding and lactation education designed for expectant mothers, fathers, and/or support persons.

Class includes benefits, basic breastfeeding techniques, and prevention of common problems. 10 a.m.-noon.

Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. $15 covers mother and support person. Pre-registration required. Call 293-8497

or visit www.jackson.org/events to register or for more info.

Wednesday, July 11

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents NANTA Cooking Show -- Through July 15 Direct from South Korea, ASF will present the Broadway and international hit NANTA Cooking Show. Combine one part Iron Chef and one part STOMP! and you get NANTA. This amazing theatrical spectacular features five fabulous Korean chefs that drum (with knives), juggle (with knives) and literally cook their way through a fast-paced evening of music, laughter and culinary delight. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353 for tickets.

Thursday, July 12

Cloverdale Playhouse Troupe Presents Fables Here and Then -- Through July 14 July 12 & 13 at 7 p.m., July 14 at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

A collection of stories and legends from around the world adapted by David Feldshuh. With music and magic, wonderful young actors from our community present the Playhouse Troupe’s inaugural production. Call (334) 2621530 for tickets. $10 adults, $5 children under 12. Visit http://www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Calendar information due by the 15th of each month.

Send an email to editor@ montgomeryparents.com.

Business Card Directory

Summer Tutoring Our Popular Summer Programs Include: • ACT/SAT Test Prep • Study Skills • Reading • Math • Writing • Affordable Rates • Qualified Tutors Call to Reserve Your Tutor Today!

334-356-1490

www.clubz.com/gradesup

Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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First Session Free!

Call for detai ls.

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Business Card Directory Amber Holley Owner/Operator

• Serving the Tri-County Area • Ages 2-6 • Birthday Parties • Church Events • Pre-Schools • Block Parties

334

324.4628

www.BigGymBus.com

Number ONE Reason To Advertise...WOMEN! www.montgomeryparents.com

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Business Card Directory

Rachelle’s Salon & Boutique Cut’s for men, women, & kids Color, highlights, waxing, & more...

334-244-8020 8125-D Decker Lane • Montgomery, AL 36117 • rachellessalon@gmail.com

Number ONE Reason To Advertise...WOMEN! Montgomery Parents I June 2012

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Are Your Customers WOMEN?

“Parents in the Know, Know Montgomery Parents”

MontgomeryParents The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

So Are Our READERS!

We Offer SMART ADVERTISING! Call Today, 213-7940

www.montgomeryparents.com freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com

Home Based Business Directory Birthday Parties

Piano Teacher

Work From Home

Hand-n-Hand Teaching Materials is offering Birthday Parties for children from birth to age 8.

Plan a summer party for your child with Melissa & Doug Products. Call (334) 651-1292.

Need 10 people to join our team. Full training provided.

You will need internet and phone with long distance.

Call 334.245.4196 or email martinaperry@mail.com

Piano Lessons

Attention!

Nationally certified-Children and adults welcome.

1829 Hillhedge Drive. Please call Miss Bickerstaff at 262-3341.

Kiddie Kat Parties

Make the Joy of Music Yours

Got Energy?

Need More Income?

Want Both?

Work from Home!

805-621-2466 24 year old company

Party Planner for Kids & Teens Amazing Parties for Amazing Prices; Party Package only $60!

Call or email today at partygirlahmanimurray@gmail. com or (334)-324-3970.

Home Childcare Experienced childcare in my Prattville home. Will keep children before and after school. Efficient rates.

Any age. Call Patricia Thomas at 901-395 7285.

Geeks Rule Tutoring

Mary’s Home Day & Night Care

Beginners, Intermediate, or Advanced. Experienced Teacher & Adjudicator. MTNA and Nationally Certified. Summer lessons available. Call now for information at 334-265-8154.

Mommy, Milk, & Me, Inc.

Provides breastfeeding education, antepartum doula services, childbirth education, and Happiest Baby on the Block classes.

Handmade breastfeeding greeting cards and breast pump rental services also available. For more info please contact Tangela Boyd at 334-782-9816.

Email: Tangela@mommymilkandmeinc.com Website: www.mommymilkandmeinc.com

Laundry

Without Detergent or Fabric Softeners / No Hot Water Average family saves about $500/per year Call Judi for details at 334-220-7229.

Katie Garner Experience in arithmatic, pre-alegebra, algebra, trig, geometry, precalc, and calculus. Affordable rates, no contract. Call 334-322-7791.

Need a “Phenomenal” Independent Beauty Consultant?

Contact Kesha D Shaw at 334-538-8643 or visit www.marykay.com/kdshaw01 e-mail: kdshaw01@marykay.com

Williams Carpentry Porches, remodeling, sheet rock, painting, hardwood floors.

Call Robert Williams at (home) 361-7307 or (cell) 699-3864.

Get Ready for Summer Tutoring!

ProMath Tutoring: Dr. Joan N. Powell ~30+ years experience; Grades 5 thru college~ Subjects: General Math Calculus; Finite, Statistics & Standardized test preparation Contact Info: 334.244.6681 Home 334.233.4559 Cell jpowell@aum.edu

Lucky Lawns

Top quality lawn care for your home and business!

Dependable tri-county service. Call James today at 424-2974 for a free estimate.

20% off for referrals!

AA At Your Service

Keeping newborns to 6 years Licensed by DHR 25 years CPR & First Aid Certified Lots of TLC Teach ABCs and 123s, etc.

284-1168 or cell 399-9772 Drop-ins welcome.

Computer Services and Support PCs, Laptops, Networks, Virus and Spyware Removal, Wireless, Security Certified Tech’s Backup and Recovery, Pickup and Delivery.

Call 334-467-5538

Bow Wow Meow Pet Sitting and Training

Sherrie’s House Cleaning

I have been pet training and pet sitting for over 6 years.

Certified Pet Trainer, Free Consultation, Reasonable Prices Call Courtney (334) 354-4183

Independent, Professional, Experienced, Excellent References, Reasonable Rates and Free Estimates Call 334-782-7859

BJ’s Cleaning Service

Saxon Lawn Service

“We Clean When You Don’t Want To” Move In/Move Out, Residential and Commercial, Construction Sites Quality and Reasonable Rates Call Betty Dennis, Cleaning Specialist, at 334.303.2585 for a free estimate.

You grow it, we mow it Affordable pricing Please call 274-0324

The FREE AD GUY knows that every business needs a few lucky breaks before it can become successful. That’s why he is offering more FREE ads to Home Based Businesses. In return, the FREE AD GUY would appreciate it if you would tell a friend about Montgomery Parents Magazine. If you’ll just help him spread the word about Montgomery Parents Magazine he’ll keep working for you and your business. If you have already run a FREE ad you can send a request to repeat the ad or make changes. Please understand but we will not accept any phone requests. For new Home Based Business advertisers, just send your information to: FREE AD GUY, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, AL 36123, or freeadguy@montgomeryparents.com.

The FREE AD GUY reserves the right to refuse any ad in case it’s not appropriate for our readers.

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Advertising Information

RESOURCES M o n t g o m e r y P a r e n t s ’ Advertiser Directory

Welcome to the Montgomery Parents’ Advertiser Directory. This section was created to help our readers easily access advertising information in our magazine. 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.

A Great Start Learning Academy, 41 Ace Bowling Center, Inside Back Cover Adventure Sports II, 92 Alabama Animal Alliance, 85 Alabama Army National Guard, 25 Alabama Christian Academy, 21 Ala Dept of Public Health, Inside Front, 9 Alabama Homeschool Expo, 76 Alabama Tennis Academy, 38 Arts in Motion, 98 ASKIN/Synergy House, 100 ASU Cont. Education Camp, 61 AUM Continuing Education, 44 Auditory/Visual Enhancement, 27 Baptist Health Services, 4 Bradford Health Services, 90 Cancer Care Center, 55 Carriage Hills Animal Hospital & Pet Resort, 72 Centre for Performing Arts, 35 Chantilly Veterinary Clinic, 18 Chapman Orthodontics, 28 Chris Neil Guitar Lessons, 98 Churchill Academy, 48 City of Montgomery 2nd Saturdays, 57 Club Z At-Home Tutoring, 8, 99 Dana Coats Mabry, Life Coach, 100 Dance Generation, 18 Dancewear, Etc., 100 Dentistry for Children, 36 Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 1 Donna Young, Supreme Landing, 101 Dr. Bradley Willis-Dentist, 24 Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 43 Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 50 E & S Hobbies, Inc., 100 Eastdale Mall, 3 Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 93 Evangel Christian Academy, 30 Evangel Temple VBS, 84 Family Karate Center, 7 Faulkner University Paralegal Degree, 73 Montgomery Parents I June 2012

First Baptist Church, Montgomery, 71 First UMC Montgomery, 31 First UMC Prattville, 21 Fleming’s Martial Arts, 93 Flowers Learning Center, 99 Frazer Memorial Christian Kindergarten, 63 Frazer UMC Children’s Camp, 57 Gecko Sports, 68 Grace Childcare Center, 75 Greengate School, 69 Handwriting for Kids, 101 Holy Cross Episcopal School, 26 Huntingdon Basketball Camp, 74 Huntington Learning Center, 43 Jenna Ann Photography, 99 KLynn Ice Skating School, 35 Kazoo Toys, 37 Kingry Orthodontics, 75 Kumon East, 2 Kumon Central, 36 Lagoon Park Golf & Tennis, 87 Lakeview Baptist Church, 95 Learning Tree Child Care, 88 Lil Pea Pod Boutique, 67 Macon East Montgomery Academy, 23, 53 Mareonta’s Fashion, 100 Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 50 Montessori @ Hampstead, 47 Montessori @ Mulberry, 25 Montessori Academy, 52 Montgomery Catholic, 17 Montgomery Humane Society, 11 Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 89 Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry/Orthodontics, 61 Montgomery Taekwondo, 99 Montgomery Zoo, 42 Mrs. Sandy’s House, 100 My Kids Attic, The Shoppes at, 19 New Park, 13 O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 61 Paint and Clay, 20 103

Party Ponies by Renfroe & Daughters, 101 Pediatric Cardiology, 77 Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 81 Petrunic Orthodontics, 74 Professional Pediatrics, 12 Pump It Up Party, 67 Rachelle’s Salon & Boutique, 101 Ray Gary Beach Cottage, 77 Riverview Camp, 32 Rolling Video Games of AL, 89 Saint James School, 15, 28 Sew Bernina, 83 Shade Tree Riding Academy, 41 Shark Tooth Creek, 47 Smart Smiles, 51 Smiles Galore Parties, 91 Southlawn Childcare Center, 65 Spacewalk of Montgomery, 83 Spacewalker, The, 63 Spotless Cleaning Services, 58 St. Bede Child Development Center, 81 St. Bede Summer Camp, 68 Success Unlimited Academy, 33 Sunny Side Child Care, 89 Sylvan Learning Center, 24 Taylor Crossing Animal Hospital, 59 Taylor Made Gaming, 91 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 84 The Big Green Bus, 100 The Dance Fitness Center, 100 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover The Waters, 65 Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 101 Tree Theater Company, 8 Trinity Christian Center, 101 Trinity Presbyterian School, 45 Twisted Spur, 92 United Family Services Outreach, 101 United Gymstars & Cheer, LLC, 38 Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 82 Vaughn Urgent Care, 51 William Frye Photography, 97 www.montgomeryparents.com

Men in Black III

The Avengers

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: D+ Sexual Content: BLanguage: C Alcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated Men in Black III PG-13 for sci-fi action violence, and brief suggestive content.

There’s a softer side to Agent K (Tommy Lee Jones), the surly, alienzapping Men in Black secret operative, but you have to go 40 years into the past to get a glimpse of it. Still it is an unexpected surprise for Agent J (Will Smith) who time travels back to the 1960s to intercede on his partner’s and the world’s behalf.

It all begins when the intergalactic criminal, Boris the Animal (Jemaine Clemnt), escapes from a supposedly impregnable prison located on the moon.

Bent on avenging the crusty agent who incarcerated him, Boris accesses a device developed to let him time jump. His plan is to bump off the young Agent K (Josh Brolin) and change the course of history.

While Agent K is Boris’ intended target, the gruesome looking extraterrestrial isn’t opposed to mowing down anyone who gets in his path, impaling them in the head with dart-like weapons and hanging his victims on the wall.

He is also responsible when a squadron of prison guards, along with the female accomplice (Nicole Scherzinger) that helped Boris escape his shackles, are sucked into space.

Other violence features an alien that is beaten about the head with a frying pan and a host of creatures blasted to bits with the secret agency’s specialized guns. While these fantastical portrayals make up most of this movie’s content, profanities and racial slurs are also found in the script. Yet in comparison to the first two films in this franchise (Men in Black and Men in Black 2) this third outing offers a stronger storyline with more comic relief provided by the goofy visionary Griffin (Michael Stuhlbarg) and artist Andy Warhol (Bill Hader). Fed up with his partner’s perpetually prickly persona, Agent J finally recognizes the depth of their alliance, albeit an uncommunicative one, when he is given the opportunity to preserve K’s life. Only then does he discover the events and choices that have forged the character of his wizened and tightlipped co-worker. Although this alien adventure is still more suitable for older teens and adults, the back-story that unfolds gives audiences a whole new appreciation for the relationship these Men in Black share.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: D+ Sexual Content: B Language: B Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated The Avengers PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action throughout, and a mild drug reference.

Finally! After starring in their own movies, the long anticipated coalition of Marvel Comic heroes comes together to tackle one massive threat to humankind. The catalyst for welding their super strengths (and in some cases super egos) into one cohesive fighting group is Loki (Tom Hiddleston), the adopted brother of the hammer-wielding god Thor (Chris Hemsworth).

Still a little ticked off about the preferential treatment his blond sibling enjoyed in the royal courts on Asgard, Loki plans to bring an alien army to overrun Earth. His first acts of business: steal the Tesseract Cube and then take over the minds and wills of the sharpshooter Hawkeye (the alter ego of Clint Barton played by Jeremy Renner) and scientist Dr. Erik Selvig (Stellan Skarsgärd).

Fully aware that mere humans will be helpless in the face of the invasion, Nick Fury (Samuel L. Jackson), director of the international peace keeping agency S.H.I.E.L.D., begins assembling the Avengers, starting with Tony Stark (Robert Downing Jr.) and Steve Rogers (Chris Evans). He sends agent Natasha Romanoff (Scarlett Johansson) to lure the reclusive Dr. Bruce Banner (Mark Ruffalo) out of Calcutta. Meanwhile they wait for Thor to return from the outer regions of the universe.

Putting this much muscle -- to say nothing of attitude -- into one confined space comes at a price, one that Loki plays to his advantage when bickering breaks out between the superheroes. For audiences, some of the movie’s most memorable lines come out as these characters exchange quips and barbs with one another. But it takes a graphic and startling death to solidify the mission of Iron Man, Captain America, Thor, Black Widow and The Hulk.

Set to be the first big blast for the summer 2012 movie season, Marvel’s The Avengers promises and provides plenty of big screen action. Yet parents of children and tweens may want to push pause before taking their kids to see the superabundant amounts of violence employed by these avenging superheroes.

What Parents need to know about The Avengers...

Violence: The film contains frequent building and vehicle explosions, weapon use and the killing of alien invaders. Thugs threaten a woman while interrogating her. Characters are frequently beaten, slashed, stabbed, shot, electrocuted, impaled and vaporized. Some are put under the control of another person. Numerous dead bodies are seen. A man is hung several stories above ground by his ankles. A character attacks a man with a device that initially appears to be ripping out his eyeball (it only makes a digital copy of the retina). Bloody and sometimes fatal injuries are shown. Blood splattered playing cards are shown. A man is stabbed in the side with a sharp object. A man is repeatedly bashed into the floor like a rag doll.

Sexual Content: The Hulk is naked after turning back into Bruce Banner - no explicit nudity is seen. Some female characters wear formfitting uniforms.

Brief veiled sexual innuendo is included. A couple kisses.

Language: The script contains infrequent mild profanities and terms of Deity.

Alcohol / Drug Use: Social drinking is depicted along with an illegal drug reference.

What Parents need to know about Men in Black III...

Violence: Numerous characters are impaled in the head and body with dart-like weapons; some blood is shown. The bodies of dead guards cover the floor of a prison. Gruesome and grotesque characters are blasted to bits. Men and aliens are slapped, hit and punched in the face. One alien is repeatedly hit in the head with a frying pan. A man jumps from a tall building. A suicide attempt is shown.

A man is shot in the chest and another loses his hand in a shoot out.

Sexual Content: A man sticks his unusually long tongue into a woman’s mouth. Brief sexual innuendo is included. Females model clothing that barely covers their bodies. A woman wears a provocative, leather dress.

Language: The script contains profanities, scatological slang, derogatory racial statements, terms of Deity and a crude term for male anatomy.

Alcohol / Drug Use: Liquor is depicted at parties and in a home setting. A man makes a comment about getting high. www.montgomeryparents.com

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Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y

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SUMMER

PROGRAMS

B A S K E T B A L L : C A M P H O O P S TA R

KINDER CAMP EAGLE

Provides a positive and fulfilling learning experience for basketball players May 29-June 1 & June 4-7 (Rising 1st-7th grade boys)

July 23-27 (Rising kindergarten students)

VOLLEYBALL: CAMP PASS, SET, BOOMDADDY For girls interested in learning the fundamentals of the fun and fast-paced game of volleyball.

June 4-7 (Rising 4th-8th grade girls)

BASEBALL CAMP Take your game to the next level with this fun and instructional baseball camp.

June 11-14 (Rising 4th-7th grade boys)

SOFTBALL CAMP

Explore a variety of painting techniques in this informative and fun class.

June 4-8 (Rising 5th-8th grade boys and girls)

Designed to teach the total game of fast pitch softball, each session will be geared toward the development of the fundamentals of the game including hitting & bunting, throwing, base running and fielding.

June 11-14 (Rising 1st-5th grade girls)

R E C R E AT I O N : M A S T Y L E

C A M P S Y LV E S T

A R T S TA N D I N G PA I N T I N G C A M P

A leading recreational program with favorite games promoting friendly competition and good sportsmanship.

June 18-21 (Rising 7th-9th grade boys)

CAMP EAGLE Fun-filled day camp for children entering 1st through 6th grades offering four one-week sessions of summer adventure.

June 18-22, June 25-29, July 9-13, July 16-20 (Rising 2nd-6th grade)

Everyone in the River Region is

invited to attend Summer Programs at The Montgomery Academy.

Develops children’s coordination and teamwork skills while playing all their favorite PE games!

July 23-26 (Rising 2nd-6th grade)

A C T & S AT P R E P A structured study and review environment with supervised practice to help improve test performance.

June 4-8, July 30-August 3 (Rising 11th-12th grade)

Scan the QR code, visit www.MontgomeryAcademy.org/SummerPrograms, or call 334.272.8210 for more information.