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CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2017!

An education that opens doors and turns dreams into reality. Saint James graduates will enter universities and colleges this fall—from coast to coast—pursuing their life-long goals with a true foundation for success.

...We are committed to challenging and assisting students in realizing their individual potential and preparing them for lives of responsibility, service, and achievement. – Saint James School Mission

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Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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May2017

Volume 22 Number 5

68 Columns

6 Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Living With Children John Rosemond

The TemperamentSavvy Parent

Teaching Kids to Enjoy Nature

Six ideas for getting your kids outside...and loving it!

Helping introverted or highly sensitive kids thrive.

12 Kids Health Watch sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

14 Montgomery Education Matters by Superintendent Margaret Allen

46 Autauga Education Matters by Superintendent Spence Agee

70 82

54 Elmore Education Matters by Superintendent Richard Dennis

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

66 Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

2017 Summer Fun

Give your kids a summer to remember with these local and nearby activities!

11 Secrets to Happy Moms

Practices to help you stay positive and feel good.

On The Cover Gabriel Rice (age 12, sixth grade), son of Mary & Tyrell Rice. Alenzia Miles (age 9, third grade), daughter of Shoney & Anthony Miles. Nathaniel McQueen (age 7, first grade), son of Shanna McQueen. All three children attend Daniel Pratt Elementary School and attend summer camp at the Prattville YMCA. They are pictured at the Prattville YMCA Bradford Branch Pool.

80 Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

84 A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 10 Bits and Pieces 16 School Bits 86 Calendar/Support Groups 96 Movie Reviews

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It’s a well-known fact that the kids of today spend a lot more time indoors than previous generations. Mostly gone are the days of riding bikes all day long with friends, exploring through ditches on what my friends and I called “Rambo” adventures, and even staying outside after dusk to wait for the fireflies to appear. These days if we want our children to experience the great outdoors we have to be much more intentional. We set limits on technology so they have no choice but to go outside, accompany them on a walk or bike ride if we are concerned about protecting them in a less-safe world, and sometimes even plan special occasions like picnics or camping trips to ensure quality time in nature. In this month’s issue, Sarah Lyons shares advice in her article, Teaching Kids to Enjoy Nature. She details six easy ways to give your kids a love for nature while they are young, that will hopefully last throughout their lives. Directly following Sarah’s article is our 2017 Summer Fun Guide, where you can find outdoor (and indoor) fun to keep your children active and learning during the school break. Maybe your child loves large group activities, or maybe she is more comfortable in smaller, quiet environments. Our listing offers a full variety to meet your family’s needs. We quickly learn after becoming parents that all children are not created equal. The personalities of two children in the same family can be as different as night and day. Some are extroverts and the life of the party, some are introverts and prefer a more intimate group of friends, while even others may be highly-sensitive, processing information about their environment more deeply. In Christina Katz’s insightful article, The Temperament-Savvy Parent, she discusses the varying temperaments of our children, why no personality type is better than another, and how to help our introverted and highly-sensitive kids thrive. Although we spend most of our days (and years) thinking about our children, it’s just as important that we spend time taking care of ourselves as moms and dads. My ability to parent joyfully is improved when I take sufficient time to enjoy some things as an individual and to recharge my “Mom batteries”. Yes, we are moms and dads, and that job is extremely important. But we are also wives, husbands, daughters, sons, workers, adventurers, exercisers, readers, cooks, etc. Read Christa Hines’ article, 11 Secrets of Happy Moms, for advice on staying positive and feeling good. Give yourself a Mother’s Day gift this month by trying a handful of these suggestions. Two other articles not to miss are Thinking About Video Game Violence in our Growing Up Online column, and Mark Gregston’s Modesty in a Seductive Teen Culture. Also, check out our Bits n Pieces and Family Calendar, which are full of fun family events in May and coming in June. Happy Mother’s Day and have a joy-filled month!

DeAnne

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

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@montgomeryparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Spence Agee Margaret Allen Richard Dennis Robert Coggin, M.D. Mark Gregston Christa Melnyk Hines Carolyn Jabs Christina Katz Sarah Lyons John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith

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

deanne@montgomeryparents.com

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

The River Region’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

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Editor’sNote

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Is “1950s Parenting” Really Best? Q: You seem to blame all of America’s parenting woes on mental health professionals and imply that if parents still raised kids as did people in the 1950s and before, they wouldn’t be having the problems they’re having today. But times have changed, John. Is it realistic to think that children can still be raised like their grandparents were raised? A: Times have always changed. Since America’s colonial beginnings in the 17th Century, every generation has put their own stamp on culture. Demographics, technology, politics, economics…you name it, it has changed, and constantly so. But through it all, the fundamental understandings that informed child-rearing remained unchanged, the simple reason being that children, unlike the “times,” do not change from one generation to another. That’s why my parents approached the responsibility of raising children pretty much the same way as had their parents, who had raised their kids the way they themselves had been raised, and so on. In the 1960s, mental health professionals claimed that traditional child rearing was psychologically harmful. They proposed a radically new approach based on equally radical understandings and principles. Psychologists like best-selling author Thomas Gordon (“Par-

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

ent Effectiveness Training”) proposed that families should be child-centered, children’s emotions contained deep meaning, and the parent-child relationship was a relationship between equals; ergo, children should be given equal sway when it came to making family decisions. The results of this paradigm shift have been disastrous. Child mental health has plummeted. The raising of children, once regarded as a straightforward process guided by common sense and traditional principles, has become the single most stressful thing a woman will attempt in her entire life. And yes, I blame the mental health professional community – my colleagues – for this debacle because they were its architects. Ironically, they have also profited greatly from it. If one shrinks from the political incorrectness of “blame,” then insert “hold responsible.” To raise children the way children were raised before the psychological parenting revolution of the late 1960s means to adhere to a short list of fundamental principles of fact: 1. The family operates best when parents, not children, are the center of attention; when parents run the show. 2. For the most part (95 percent, by my estimate), a child’s feelings mean nothing except that his feelings, like his behavior, are in need of outside discipline.

3. Obedience to parental authority improves the mental and emotional health of children. That is confirmed by both research and common sense. 4. Proper child-rearing is not all about the child in question; rather, it is an act of love for one’s neighbors, broadly defined. 5. The ultimate purpose of raising a child is not to produce a high achiever; rather, it is to produce a person of character, a good citizen. Grades are less important than manners. Those principles are based on the unassailable understanding that children do not know what they need; they only know what they want. The adults in their lives are responsible for giving them everything they need and very little of what they want, thus properly preparing them for adulthood. Those understandings are timeless; they did not expire upon non-renewal by my generation. There are better and worse ways of expressing them, but they are as valid today as they were sixty-plus years ago. Per the title of my latest book, it turns out that Grandma was right after all. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions at www.johnrosemond.com and parentguru.com.

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Family Fishing Class at Alabama Nature Center

Pike Road Crawfish Boil

May 6 * 10 a.m.-7 p.m. at The Waters. Benefits the Pike Road Patriot Fund. Kids under 12 enter FREE! Adult tickets: $20 advance; $25 day of event. Bring your lawn chairs, coolers and friends for a wonderful afternoon with live music, face painting, hot dogs, hamburgers and over 1,000 pounds of crawfish. For more info, visit www. eventbrite.com/e/6thannual-crawfish-boilbenefiting-the-pikeroad-patriots-tickets-31899235472.

Mayorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bike Ride and Touch A Truck Event May 20 * 9:45 a.m.-2 p.m. As part of the National Kids to Parks Day, Prattville Mayor Bill Gillespie, Jr. will hold his Annual Bike Ride at 9:45 a.m. Riders 8 and older will take off from Upper Kingston Park and riders 7 and younger will begin at the Chamber of Commerce. All riders will end at Pratt Park by Stanley Jensen Stadium to enjoy Touch A Truck. Touch A Truck will begin at 10 a.m. and will include fire trucks, police vehicles, backhoes, dump trucks, tractor trailer rigs, race cars and more for the children to explore and learn about. These events are FREE and open to the public. Bike riders must wear helmets. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

May 6 * 2-4:30 p.m. Come join us with Doug Darr to learn a wide range of fishing techniques! Guests are encouraged to bring their own rod and reel; however, we do have a limited number of extras. Be sure to register as this class will fill up quickly and there is a maximum capacity. This is a great class to participate in as a family! Ages 8 & up. Admission $5. Visit www.alabamawildlife. org/ or call (800) 822-9453.

Urban Scavenger Hunt

May 6 * 9-11 a.m. Begins at the Alley Station water tank entrance. Participants register in teams of two or four. Each team will be given 12 clues that will have you meandering through historic downtown Montgomery on foot. Teams will have two hours to complete 9 of the 12 clues. At each location the teams may have to answer a question, perform a physical activity or participate in a food challenge. The first three teams that finish will win prizes! Proceeds will benefit the YMCA of Greater Montgomeryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Campaign. Register online for $25 per person (includes T-Shirt) or day of (T-shirt not guaranteed). For more info, call (334) 269-4362 or e-mail smccracken@ymcamontgomery.org.

@ The Capri Theatre May 31-July 28 Wednesdays, Thursdays & Fridays 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. All seats $2; popcorn and soda .50 each. May 31-June 2: Minions (PG) June 7-9: Kung Fu Panda 3 (PG) June 14-16: Trolls (PG) June 21-23: Home (PG) June 28-30: Rio 2 (PG) July 5-7: Ice Age: Collision Course (PG) July 12-14: The Secret Life Of Pets (PG) July 19-21: Penguins Of Madagascar (PG) July 26-28: The Peanuts Movie (PG) For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org/ or call (334) 262-4858. 10

Flimp Festival

May 6 * 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Art-related activities and entertainment including a sidewalk chalk art competition and live theatrical and musical performances by Booker T. Washington Magnet High School. Additional student performance every 45 minutes. There will also be interactive demonstrations with Museum Store artists, a scavenger hunt, and concessions. Festivities will kick off with the ever-popular Do-Dah Pet Parade. The event is free for all MMFA members, active-duty military and their immediate families. Tickets can be purchased the day of the event and are $5 for adults and $3 for children. Visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333.

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C Autism and Disability Friendly Night

Sunday, May 21, 2:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium This game will feature much less visual and audio effects that make professional baseball games uncomfortable for some of our biggest fans. Join us today to support the Easter Seals of Alabama. Kids ages 14 and under are invited to run the bases presented by Coca-Cola! Kids can also play catch on the field before the game and create some arts and crafts. For tickets, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

2017 Splash Bash at Participating YMCAs

Sunday, May 21, 2-4 p.m. Enjoy a no-joining fee for one day only! Free for all members and open to the community! Join us for summer fun, games and Y giveaways! In addition, we will have a NO REGISTRATION fee for all of our summer camps and summer childcare and people on hand to help you get set up with summer activities for children. Bell Road, East Family and Kershaw in Montgomery, Grandview in Millbrook and Wetumpka YMCA. www.montgomeryparents.com

Taste of the Gardens

Southern Homes & Gardens on Vaughn Road, Montgomery. May 11, from 5-8 p.m. The event includes a silent auction featuring works from local artists; tasting from the River Region’s finest restaurants & caterers; wine; and live music. Event tickets are $25, and may be purchased at SH&G, Caffco Outlet or at the American Red Cross, Central Alabama. Tickets also will be available the day of the event. For more info, call (334) 260-4040 or e-mail kelly. hodges@redcross.org.

7th Annual Agape Run for a Mom 5K & Fun Run

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Music in May Returns

Looking for a fun family event this spring? Join us at The Waters in Pike Road for LIVE MUSIC at The Square from 4-6 p.m. each Sunday. Bring your family and friends out for a fun afternoon! May 7: Heath Cowen and Brandon Hayes May 14: Rachel Wilson May 21: Wes Darnell May 28: John Emil For more info, call (334) 272-3200 or visit https://thewatersal.com/musicinmay/.

Capitol Sounds Concert Band Presents ‘Summer Spectacular’ June 6 * 7 p.m. at Saint James United Methodist Church on Vaughn Road. The event is free and open to the public, but donations are gladly accepted and will go towards performances for our upcoming 2017-18 season, including our Children’s Concert. For more info, visit www.capitolsounds.org.

Saturday, May 13 * 7:30 a.m. start time for 5K; 8:30 a.m. start for 1-Mile Fun Run. Race begins at Vaughn Park Church and continues through the Vaughn Meadows community. Registration for the 5K ranges from $5 to $30. All proceeds directly benefit Agape of Central Alabama and its mission to support women, children and families through foster care, adoption and crisis pregnancy counseling. For more info about the event, registration, and sponsorships, visit www.runforamom.org or call (334) 272-9466.

Old Alabama Town’s 20th Annual Herb Day

May 13 * 8 a.m.-3 p.m., held in the “‘Living Block” at Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus Street, Montgomery. Free, fun-filled, public educational event for the entire family, offering lectures and demonstrations featuring experts on identifying, growing and using herbs, including a cooking demonstration. There will be live music performances, activities for children, and the opportunity to find that perfect Mother’s Day gift in the open-air market. For more info, visit www. facebook.com/OldAlabamaTownHerbSociety or call (334) 240-4500.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Professional Pediatrics

Pool Safety May is National Water Safety Month and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s that time of year again to begin enjoying the warm weather and taking advantage of the neighborhood or backyard pool. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a good way to have fun, keep cool, and get some good exercise. However, like many activities, there are some precautions to be taken to allow a safe time and avoid a possible trip to the Emergency Room. In order to provide as safe an environment as possible, protection of the pool should be done in layers with alerts and alarms to warn of dangers. Safety begins in the home by using alarms on doors and windows to alert that someone is leaving the house. The pool itself should be surrounded by a fence at least 4 feet high and is secured by a self-closing, self-latching gate. The pool should not be accessible directly from the house or yard. A wall around the yard is not considered to be adequate protection. Pool alarms are useful to alert when someone has entered the pool unnoticed. These alarms can be a floating device, but a more reliable device is an underwater motion sensor. This device monitors changes in

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

water pressure if someone enters the pool unintentionally. Also, the child can wear a wrist alarm to notify an adult that the child has entered the water. This device may be useful when boating also. When the pool is not in use, a mesh or solid pool cover will prevent anyone from accidentally falling into the water. This is not the same as a winter or solar pool cover. One of the most dangerous situations is when a child is trapped by the suction drain at the bottom of the pool. It is very difficult to rescue a person manually in this situation. It is vitally important to know where the pump shut-off switch is and immediately turn it off to relieve the suction. This situation can be prevented by installing a device known as a Safety Vacuum Release System (SVRS) on the drain. This device prevents suction from being established in the first place. It must be installed by a pool professional. There are other safety measures that can be done that do not require much effort or expense. As with any outdoor activity during the summer, be sure to apply adequate sunscreen and reapply it often during the day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; even on cloudy days. It is a good idea to

keep a cell phone close by with emergency numbers preprogrammed in case of an urgent situation. Often prevention is really the best safety measure, so teaching children to swim is very important. Usually you can consider swimming lessons when the child is about 4 years of age although this will certainly depend on the maturity and physical ability of the child. In addition, parents may consider learning basic CPR in case of an emergency. One of the most basic and important safety measures is close and constant supervision and observation by an adult. When many adults are present it is easy to become distracted so no one is really watching. It is a good idea to have one person responsible specifically for monitoring the pool at all times. More detailed information is available at web sites such as www.redcross.org, www. swimmingpool.com, and www.healthychildren.org. Have a fun and safe summer! Dr. Coggin received his medical degree from the University of Mississippi School of Medicine and did his pediatric residency at the University of Mississippi Medical Center in Jackson. He began private practice in Mississippi and has been in Montgomery since 1983. He has two married daughters, one in Montgomery and one in Orlando, Florida. He enjoys college sports with his wife Cathy who is an attorney.

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Learning in the Atmosphere It was not that long ago that there was no Internet and no email. Videos of our cute kids couldn’t be instantly shared. Communication could take weeks to reach someone in another part of the country. However, today I can send information by email or text to someone halfway around the world in just a few seconds. The internet has changed every aspect of our lives – including the way we learn. Research often meant spending countless hours in the library, wrestling with the Dewy Decimal System and praying the book you needed hadn’t been checked out. Our students today have the world at their fingertips, via computer and the smartphones in their pockets. They

can find the population of China, an image of electron density, or research theory after theory with just a few key strokes. The internet has become a learning environment, but universities aren’t the only ones with online classes. We also have an internet learning presence – The Montgomery Public Schools Virtual School Program. Beginning May 1, we will begin accepting applications for our Virtual School Program for 2017-2018. It is open to students in grades 9-12. There is no tuition. Their books are electronic. This program is for students who want flexibility and personalized learning experiences. Students may even complete their high school diploma in less time than traditional schools. Students must have their own internet portal, but they are issued MPS laptops or devices to use at home. There are virtual labs for classes like chemistry. The students can even play sports (not virtual) at their zoned schools. And if he or she has an interest in classes offered at MPACT,

our career and technical center, they can be a part of that as well. This is a special program for motivated high school students who are comfortable with technology and are interested in studying at their own pace. They can take a class at 9 a.m. or 9 p.m. as long as they log in every school day. However, it isn’t all virtual. Students take their tests with other students in a real classroom with a supervising teacher. Virtual learning is not for every student. It is an alternative for those who want to homeschool their children or for those who are more interested in an accelerated program. You can find out more by going to our website www.engageeducateinspire.org. You can also apply for the program there from May 1 through May 19. Allen began working for Montgomery Public Schools as a special education teacher in 1976. She holds administrative certification from Alabama State University, a masters of arts in early childhood, a masters of arts in early childhood/handicapped, and a bachelor’s of science in elementary education and special education – all from Auburn University Montgomery.

Sunday Worship in Two Locations: 6000Atlanta Highway: 8, 9:30 and 11am Pike Road School: 9 and 10:30am Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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Montgomery County Schools

Saint James Tennis Teams Serve Up the Win

Both the Saint James School boys’ and girls’ varsity tennis teams made a clean sweep and won every line for singles and doubles in the Sectional Tournament at Lagoon Park in midApril! The sectional wins qualified them for State competition the last week in April in Mobile. For boys’ singles play, Aaron Skier was #1 sectional champion, Stephen Sadie was #2 sectional champion, Connor Taylor was #3 sectionals champion, Hawthorne Ramsey was #4 sectionals champion, Allen Azar was #5 sectional champion, and JB Ramsey was #6 sectionals champion. For boys’ doubles play, Skier and Sadie were #1 sectionals champions, Taylor and Hawthorne Ramsey were #2 sectional champions, and Azar and JB Ramsey were #3 sectionals champions. For girls’ singles play, Ella Skier was #1 sectional champion, Anastasiya Miller was #2 sectional champion, Chloe Miramontes was #3 sectionals champion, Bea Richardson was #4 sectionals champion, Sue Richardson was #5 sectional champion, and Camilla Richardson was #6 sectionals champion. For girls’ doubles play, Skier and Bea Richardson were #1 sectionals champions, Miller and Miramontes were #2 sectional champions, and Sue Richardson and Bea Richardson were #3 sectionals champions.

SUA Summer School and Tutoring

Success Unlimited Academy faculty and staff invites students to join them this summer to sharpen their skills and earn high school credits. Our AdvancEd accredited program offers individualized instruction and hands on feedback. Our certified faculty will help your child recover the credits that may have been lost during this past school year or take extra courses to improve their grade point average. SUA is a safe and loving environment where everyone feels valued and important. This will be our 17th year offering a summer school program. Students excel in our courses because our team tailor-make them to work based on individual needs. Summer school will begin on June 6, 2017 and will run through July 27, 2017. Call the school office at 334-213-0803 for pricing and program hours. Tutoring hours will be based on enrollment. All grade levels are welcome. “I took classes each summer at Success Unlimited Academy to earn the credits I lost after having a double lung transplant. The teachers worked with me one on one to make sure I would succeed. Now I am graduating on time with my classmates. When I enrolled after missing two years of school due to my illness, I never expected to graduate on time. Thanks to Success Unlimited Academy I have reached my goals and plan to further my education in college.” Coleman Drew, 2017 Graduating class of Success Unlimited Academy. Send Your School News by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com. Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Front row from left are Allen Azar, Connor Taylor, Aaron Skier, Hawthorne Ramsey, JB Ramsey and Matthew Nelson; back from left: Sam Prickett, Stephen Sadie, Coach Ben Bradshaw, Jacob Seale and Mitch Mathews.

From left: Ella Skier, Allyn Browning, Chloe Miramontes, Sue Richardson, Anastasiya Miller, Caroline Christie, Gyuna Kim, Camilla Richardson and Coach Geoff Waring. Not pictured: Bea Richardson, Hanah-Mathis Ray and Virginia Williams. 16

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Macon East Holds Mathematics Honor Society Inductions

The Macon East Academy chapter of Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society inducted its newest members at a recent ceremony. Mu Alpha Theta, the National High School and Two-Year College Mathematics Honor Society, is dedicated to inspiring a keen interest in mathematics, developing strong scholarship in the subject, and promoting the enjoyment of mathematics in high school and two-year college students. The 2016-17 Macon East inductees are Drew Baker, Channy Blackwell, Nate Center, Rebecca Chapman, Isabella Fagan, Nic Fitzgerald, Logan Goree, Jake Gracey, Dawn Johnson, Lindsey Johnson, Gracie Johnston, Madisyn Kennedy, Christian Lewis, Jackson Little, Jon Maddox, Brian Major, Alexa McGough, Cody Nesbitt, Bailey Nyberg, Katie Pittenger, Bailey Tadlock, Zack Taylor and Bailey Williams. To be eligible for membership, students must have achieved a 3.0 GPA or higher in their high school level mathematics courses. Serving as officers for the Macon East chapter of Mu Alpha Theta under the leadership of math instructor Logan Smith are: President Alex Wyrosdick, Vice President Slate Garmany, Secretary Seth Meadows and Treasurer Channy Blackwell.

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Engineer Day at BCA

Bethany Christian Academy celebrated Engineer Day with their favorite volunteer/sponsor, engineer Sharniqua Stiles! The children were excited as she shared interactive STEM activities and awarded gift cards. Other guest engineers included Mr. Cody and Miss Jessica.

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Catholic Freshman Chosen For Science Leadership Program this Summer

Clare Wilson, a ninth-grader at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School, will be a Delegate of the Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders in Lowell, Mass. June 29-July 1. The Congress is an honors-only program for high school students who are passionate about science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM). The purpose of this event is to honor, inspire, motivate and direct the top students in the country who aspire to be scientists and technologists, to stay true to their dream and, after the event, to provide a path, plan and resources to help them reach their goal. Wilson was nominated by Dr. John C. Mather, winner of the Nobel Prize in Physics and Science Director of the National Academy of Future Scientists and Technologists, to represent Alabama based on her academic achievement, leadership potential and passion for science and technology. During the three-day Congress, Wilson will join students from across the country and hear Nobel Laureates and National Medal of Science recipients talk about leading scientific research; be given advice from deans of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top tech universities; be inspired by fellow teen science prodigies; and learn about cuttingÂŹedge advances and the future of science and technology. The Academy offers free services and programs to students who have the desire to learn more about their future in science or technology. Some of the services and programs the Academy offers include online social networks through which future scientists and technologists can communicate; opportunities for students to be guided and mentored by tech and science leaders; and communications for parents and students on college acceptance and finances, skills acquisition, internships, career guidance and much more. For more info, visit www.scitechleaders. com or call (617) 307-7425. 19

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Trinity Senior Named Byant-Jordan Scholar-Athlete

Trinity Presbyterian School student Mary Conley Teel was named the Regional Bryant-Jordan Scholar-Athlete by the Alabama High School Athletic Association. The Bryant-Jordan Scholar-Athlete Banquet and Awards Ceremony were held in Birmingham on April 10. Out of more than 150,000 student athletes in the state of Alabama, Teel was among the elite 96 athletes recognized at this program. At the time of the recognition, Teel had a cumulative grade-point average of 4.32 and has continued a rigorous academic course load at Trinity. She received Trinity’s Henry Meador Scholarship for having the highest grade-point average at the end of her junior year. She is a member of the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta, and serves as a Trinity ambassador. She is an AP Scholar and has received several academic accolades, including Outstanding Achievement Awards is French I, II and III, World and U.S. History, Algebra II with Trig and Honors English 10. Having lettered for four years on Trinity’s varsity volleyball and tennis teams, Teel has been a dynamic leader for both teams. She was the recipient of the Varsity Volleyball Barnabas Encouragement Award and the Varsity Tennis Sportsmanship Award. Her peers selected her as the Fellowship of Christian Athletes president and she serves on the FCA Leadership Team. As a senior, Teel was named Honorable Mention to the All—CCC Volleyball Team. Teel has been an elite scholar-athlete at Trinity. She has chosen to attend Clemson University and will major in agricultural mechanization and business. For the past three years, she has participated in mission trips to Haiti, which has influenced her decision for her college major. In a recent essay Teel wrote, “Agriculture is a gateway into the hearts of Haiti people.” Her ultimate goal is to start a multifaceted ministry in Haiti, which would meet the physical, mental and spiritual needs of the people.

Success Unlimited Academy Proudly Announces the 2017 Valedictorian and Salutatorian

The recipients of these prestigious awards have earned these distinctions by the dedication and commitment they have demonstrated in and out of the classroom at SUA. Our 2017 Valedictorian is Phil Lane. He is the son of Phillip and Lisa Lane, both of Montgomery. He has attended Success Unlimited Academy since the eighth grade. He is completing his high school career with a perfect 4.0 grade point average and earned a score of 32 on his ACT. He is a member of the National Honor Society, served this year as SGA co-president, and was a recipient of the Christian Character Award in the 9th grade. He was voted “Most Likely to Succeed” by his senior class and is a member of the Yearbook staff as well as the founding member of the Programing Club. Phil also earned a Community Service Honor Cord for his commitment to community service. He plans to attend the University of Alabama in Huntsville in its Honor’s College program on a full-tuition scholarship and plans to double-major in Computer Science and Mathematics. He would like to pursue a career in Computer Programming Language Theory. Our 2017 salutatorian is SarahDiane Moody. She is the daughter of Jack and Terri Moody, both of Montgomery. Our salutatorian has attended SUA since the fifth grade. She is completing her high school career with a 3.9 grade point average. SarahDiane is very involved in many SUA programs. She is a member of the National Honor Society and Key Club. She has performed as a soloist for several school fine arts productions and is a lead singer for the school’s praise and worship band, “Warrior”. She serves as the Senior Class Chaplain and has won the Christian Character Award consecutively for six years, as well as the ACSC Christian Character Award in 2015. Her hobbies include caring for all animals, with an emphasis horses. equestrian sciences. Her future plans include opening her own horse rehabilitation farm. She also enjoys working with students with special needs and volunteering at church. SarahDiane plans to attend Judson College in the fall on a scholarship pursuing a double major in Equestrian Science and Psychology. Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Bear Celebrates PTA Reflections Winners

Bear Exploration Center students showed off their artistic side in this year’s PTA Reflections Art Contest. Students created works based on the theme, “What Is Your Story?” The County Visual Arts winners are Addison Sexton, Brice Adair and ErinMichael Tyler. County Photography winners are Drew Meadows, Ryan Griffin and Lottie Phelps. County Film winner is Maggie Whitt. County Music winners are Brayden White, Rodarien Wilkerson and Ariyana Simon. County Literature winners are Millie DeLoach, Jackson Sexton and Addison Sexton. Winners at the State level are Brayden White (Music), Rodarien Wilkerson (Music), Millie DeLoach (Literature), Drew Meadows (Photography), and Lottie Phelps (Photography). Pictured are the State winners. Brayden White’s musical piece is competing at the National level.

ACA Junior Qualifies for Jr. Olympic National Team

Alabama Christian Academy junior Garrett McDaniel began gymnastic in first grade at the Armory. He is now a level 10 competitor and has recently qualified for the Men’s Junior Olympics National Championship Team. He will represent Alabama and Region VII in May.

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Trinity’s True Blue Gala Benefits Annual Fund

Trinity’s annual True Blue Gala and Auction held February 25 at Wynlakes Golf and Country Club was an enjoyable and lively event for all guests. Once again, the online auction proved to be a popular event with Trinity families! Selecting from over 300 donated items, bidders chose from an array of oil paintings, beautiful antiques, fine furnishings, Trinity “exclusive” items, such as VIP parking spots and front row seats to Trinity events. There were “favorite things” baskets, Yeti tumblers monogrammed with the Trinity crest, fine jewelry from Marguerites, and the list goes on and on. Many online auction goers enjoyed the wide array of pricing of items with opening bids starting as low as $10 on several items. Bidders also took advantage of bidding on the higher ticket items, which included an extra large Big Green Egg®, a trip to Argentina, and beautiful coats and vests from Henig Furs. While listening to lively jazz music performed by The Coleman Woodson Group, guests dined on delicious hors d’oeuvres prepared by Wynlakes’ Chef Joe. The festive environment was contagious and guests continued to mingle even after the auction’s closing bell rang at 9 p.m. Many guests stayed around to see who won the tuition raffle, where the winner received half-off one child’s tuition. The draw-down was filled with many anxious and humorous moments as Middle and Upper School Principal Mike Zavada called out each number, but in the end, Michelle Farmer had the winning ticket! This event would not be possible without the hard work of True Blue Chairpersons Stacey Hill and Emily Foy, Online Auction Chairperson Dabney Albritton, as well as Director of Advancement Mary Elizabeth Collett. Countless hours were spent in preparation of the event, dating back to meetings starting last September. All proceeds from the event benefit Trinity’s Annual Fund. True Blue Chairpersons Emily Foy and Stacey Hill are shown.

Holy Cross’s Annual “Low Country Boil & Auction” Great Success

Holy Cross Episcopal School held its annual “Low Country Boil & Auction” that one of the most successful fundraisers of the year. Guests enjoyed bidding on items that were donated from local businesses to national luxury resorts. A Disney “Park Hopper Pass”, vacation destinations, a week in an historic home in Sanibel Island and at the end of the evening, a live auction for a trip to Maui with a five day stay at the Waldorf Astoria Grand Wailea Resort, with an opportunity to snorkel at an ancient underwater lava arch where green turtles native to Hawaii can be exclusively seen. Montgomery’s Jim & Nick’s and Seafood Bistro provided delicious barbeque chicken cooked and smoked on site as well as shrimp, corn, potatoes, sausages, and a variety of condiments and a delicious dessert assortment. Co-hosts for the evening were The Honorable Jimmy Pool and WSFA’s Josh Johnson. The event significantly benefits Holy Cross Episcopal School and is an exciting evening for everyone that begins at 4:00 and ends with the live auction after dinner.

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CCCA Kindergarten Gets Fired Up!

Cornerstone Classical Christian Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kindergarten class enjoyed a visit from the local fire department. In conjunction with their literature study on Curious George, the kindergartners participated in a fire safety class and then explored the fire truck. Local firefighters visited with the students and explained their role in serving our community. Teacher Amy Gonzalez said this was the perfect way for the students to learn about firemen and fire safety.

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April Showers Bring...Cabbage!

Mrs. Dickerson and Mrs. Francoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s C3 learners taught Pike Road Mayor Stone about their cabbage garden and aquaponics at Pike Road Schools recently.

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Lee JROTC Cadet Receives DAR Award

Lee High Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Tranining Corps Cadet Jasmine Stokes has received the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution Award. The local Anne Phillips Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution gave the award to one college ROTC cadet and one high school JROTC cadet. According to the DAR, the award is presented to “an ROTC/JROTC student who has demonstrated academic excellence, dependability, good character, adherence to military discipline, leadership, and a fundamental and patriotic understanding of the importance of the Reserve Officers Training Corps.”

ECA Coach Named AISA All-State Coach of the Year

Kerwin Washington, Evangel Christian Academy’s boys’ basketball coach, was recently named the AISA 2017 All-State Boys’ Coach of the Year. He was also awarded the title of the Montgomery Advertiser 2017 AllMetro AISA Boys’ Coach of the Year. Coach Washington started his career at ECA as a volunteer assistant coach in 2007. In 2012, he became the head coach for the boys’ basketball team. Coach Washington was instrumental in leading the Lions’ varsity and junior varsity basketball teams to an AISA state championship this year. In fact, in the past five years he has helped ECA capture two junior high state championships and one varsity state championship, building an 83-59 record overall. This year alone, the team finished strong by winning 11 of the last 12 games to finish with a 20-9 record, which was a 14-game improvement over last year. Coach Washington retired from the U.S. Air Force with more than 22 years of service and is currently employed by the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Alabama. 23

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Holy Cross Episcopal School’s Spring Outreach Benefits Montgomery Area Food Bank

ACA Varsity Softball Wins Tournament

Alabama Christian Academy’s varsity softball team recently won the PCA Softball tournament. The team went 2-1 in pool play and 4-0 in bracket play. ACA beat Alexandria 6-1 in the championship game, with four players hitting home runs! This tournament win brings ACA’s softball record to 27-3.

Holy Cross Episcopal School’s Spring Outreach project is complete, and we couldn’t be prouder of our Holy Cross students and families for making it such a great success! Resource Teacher Marcia Bazzell said that the project was totally spearheaded by our graduating 6thgrade class and their fantastic efforts which led to this proud over-the-top finish. It began with Mrs. Amber Griffith leading the 6th grade to research and present various project possibilities and then do a PowerPoint presentation of the information they uncovered about each one for the faculty and student body in an assembly. It was decided that the Montgomery Area Food Bank, researched by Nasir Burton and Lewis Bradford, would win the support of the school. The 6th grade began making banners, signs and handouts to encourage participation, and as they say – the rest is history!

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HOLY CROSS ADMITS STUDENTS OF ANY RACE, RELIGION, AND NATIONAL OR ETHNIC ORIGIN. Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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Churchill Holds Annual Family Retreat & Silent Auction

Churchill Academy’s Annual Family Retreat and Silent Auction was held April 8 at The Grandma Home House Retreat in Pike Road. The day allowed Churchill families and the community at large to enjoy a day of “local paradise” while supporting the vision of Churchill for its students through the parent association’s Silent Auction. Families enjoyed dinner on the back porch of the venue overlooking a beautiful beach and lake area, all while listening to The Shouting Stones band. Students rode bikes on the bicycle trail, rested in the hammock park, and built sand castles down by the beach. The highlight of the afternoon was entertainment by Churchill Academy’s lower school students. Music teacher Nelda Williams led the audience in Churchill’s brandnew school song in commemoration of the school’s 20th anniversary this year. The song was written by Williams’s husband, Daryl Williams, who also contributes his time and talents to the school’s music program. The students performed other songs such as “Polka Dots, Checks and Stripes” and “Ordinary Miracle.” Other entertainment was provided by the Family Karate Center of Montgomery, with Master Carole Coker and her students giving a presentation on safety and self-defense and gifting a week of classes to all Churchill Academy students in attendance. An exciting aspect of this event is CAPA’s (Churchill Academy’s Parent Association) Silent Auction. This year’s donations ranged from karate lessons to flight opportunities; dinner with Churchill’s founder/director Lisa Schroeder; antique furniture; dress-down days; and more! As the sun set on Grandma’s Home House, families lined up with excitement to discover their auction wins for the day. The auction resulted in a profit of more than $4,000, which will be utilized to enhance technology at the academy.

MA Teacher Accepted Into Klingenstein Program Montgomery Academy Middle School faculty member Sarah Bryan has been accepted into the 2017 class of the Klingenstein Summer Institute. This two-week program will allow her to dive deep with other early career teachers in the areas of curriculum and instruction, diversity, collaboration and innovation. She will get to experience the history and culture in the surrounding area of Princeton. She will meet 74 other brilliant educators and build a cohort of diverse colleagues that she will keep for years to come. Bryan is a 2011 graduate of the Academy and teaches eighth-grade mathematics.

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STJ Junior Named Outstanding Big Buddy

Saint James School junior Denson Clark and senior Bayley Beasley were both nominated for Outstanding Big Buddy of the Year for IPRYL, Interpersonal Relations Youth Leadership Program, which is a leadership and mentoring class in partnership with Montgomery Public Schools and the YMCA. Clark was awarded Outstanding Big Buddy of the Year for 2016-2017. Clark and Beasley are pictured with their little buddies at the Capital City Club, Jordan with Clark and Micah with Beasley.

Macon East District and State Science Fair Winners

Six Macon East science fair winners (Wade Desmarais, Jacob Grindle, Addison Little, Brennan Mauney, Weston Tubbs, and Anna Watson) advanced to the AISA District Science Fair at Chattahoochee Valley Community College. Watson (5th grade) and Desmarais (6th grade) both took first-place honors at District in biological science and advanced to the AISA State competition. Watson was awarded 2ndplace honors at the AISA State Science Fair held February 23 at Huntingdon College. Desmarais and Watson are shown above. Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Montgomery Academy Inducts Cum Laude Members

Since 1969 The Montgomery Academy has honored academic excellence by awarding membership in the Cum Laude Society to its highest-achieving students. On April 13, the Academy honored its most accomplished scholars with a ceremony to induct new members. Cum Laude membership is earned by the top 20% of the senior class and the top 10% of the junior class each year. Cum Laude is thus more selective than the better-known National Honor Society, which awards membership to all students whose grades fall within a certain range. Only three schools in Alabama have Cum Laude chapters. Along with parents of the new members, Upper School students and faculty attended the ceremony in Bear Field House. Qualified members of the junior and senior classes received pins and certificates. MA science teacher Ashley Belcher was the speaker. The program was followed by a reception for seniors inducted as juniors last spring and for new Cum Laude members and their parents. The president of the Montgomery Academy chapter of Cum Laude is Scott Richburg; the secretary is Cindy Ackerman. Juniors inducted were Austyn Barnes, Maddie Brazil, Kevin Doh, Martha Glen Sease, Brown Simmons and Fred Tippett. Senior inductees were Lindsey Ferraro, Justin Jones, Gyungmin Kim, Annie Ramsey, Emma Slawson and Talya Whyte. Seniors who were inducted last year inducted were Ford Cleveland, Dora Eskridge, Yu Jin Jeon, Anna Kate Lindsey, So Jeong Park and Elizabeth Robertson.

Dozier Sisters Both Honored By City Leaders

Two sisters who attend Dozier Elementary are making their family proud by earning praise from city leaders for their separate distinctions. Fourth-grader Reyla Green was a winner in her grade level in the Montgomery City-County Public Libraryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fourth Annual Voices of Black History Speech competition. Each contestant had to research and write their own speech and present it in costume. Green chose Angela Davis, portrayed her to perfection and won in the fourth and fifth grade category. Mayor Todd Strange recognized Green, and she received a Certificate of Commendation. Her younger sister, first-grader Lyric Green, was honored by two city leaders for being named Miss Alabama Princess. Both Strange and City Councilman Tracy Larkin recognized her for the accomplishment, and Strange gave Green a proclamation for representing the city of Montgomery and the state of Alabama. 26

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Macon East Students Exhibit Artwork at Museum

More than 100 entries were submitted from 13 public and private schools for the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts recent ARTWORKS exhibit, and the judges selected 48 of them. These included five Macon East Academy art students and their works listed below. These artists’ works were on exhibition at the Museum from January through March. Madison Folkes made a cross-stitched face called “The Looking Man,” Chandler Barker made several squares quilted together with his initials called “Stitched,” Alex Chancellor made a cotton cloud with different colored fabric raindrops called “Rainy Day,” Jaycee Cook-McCollum made a watercolor version of Starry Night with added stitch marks called “Vincent Van Don’t” and Katie Pittenger made several pieces of fabric symbolizing a sunset called “Fading Sunset.” Folkes and Barker are shown above.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Holy Cross Episcopal School Enjoys Annual Trip to Dauphin Island Sea Lab

Holy Cross Episcopal School’s sixth-graders recently returned from their annual Dauphin Island Sea Lab weekend. Some of the experiences they enjoyed during their visit included studying marine life and the coastal ecosystem in the research laboratories, meeting the scientists and researchers, gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of how to conserve our unique aquatic environment, as well as getting hands-on marine science lessons. The annual trip is a highlight each year and enjoyed by the sixth-grade students before graduating.

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Cornerstone Fourth-Graders Visit Planetarium The W. A. Gayle Planetarium was the destination of choice for Mrs. Taunton’s 4th-grade class from Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy. This was the conclusion of their study of the solar system and all the planets. “Thus says the LORD, Who gives the sun for light by day and the fixed order of the moon and the stars for light by night...The LORD of hosts is His name.” Jeremiah 31:35

ACA Visits New York City

More than 100 students and chaperones from the junior and senior classes at Alabama Christian Academy spent spring break in the Big Apple! Students had the opportunity to visit popular spots such as Central Park, Times Square, Trinity’s Cathedral, Carlo’s Bakery, the 9/11 Memorial, the Plaza Hotel, and Top of the Rock, to name a few. A highlight of the trip was the group worship service in Central Park. Students were excited for the opportunity to travel to new places with friends and the ACA family.

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MEAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Wright Attends Capstone Leadership

Macon East sophomore Anne Auston Wright, shown at right, was selected to attend the 10th annual Capstone Leadership Academy March 2-3 at the University of Alabama. Hosted by the Universityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Capstone Council Office of the President and Honors College, the academy featured activities designed to give students tools and training to apply to leadership opportunities in their schools and communities. While attending the event, Wright heard from guest speakers and participated in group activities that highlighted important leadership skills that focused on the academics theme of values, vision, and voice.

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Montgomery Academy Science Club Visits Auburn Seventh- and eighth-grade members of the Montgomery Academy Middle School Science Club traveled to the Auburn University Veterinarian School for their annual Open House. Students were able to pet a variety of animals, perform water tests, view the organs of many animals in the anatomy lab with vet students as their instructors and much more! Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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Montgomery Catholic Hosts 17th Annual Mardi Gras Prayer Breakfast

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s sophomore class hosted the annual Mardi Gras Prayer Breakfast for the entire high school student body and many special guests on Fat Tuesday, February 28. The day began in the wee hours of the morning with members of the sophomore class transforming the Dolly Barranco Activity Center into a Mardi Grasthemed restaurant while cooking and serving a delicious pancake breakfast for nearly 400 guests. Sophomore SGA officers Austin Collett, Anna Catherine Barranco and Zoe Rutland welcomed guests and invited everyone to write down their Lenten promises which hung in the main hall of the High School next to the Chapel. Guests were invited to stop and read the promises throughout Lent and say a prayer for those who made them. Father Patrick Driscoll from Holy Spirit Catholic Church opened with prayer. Sophomore class President Anna Catherine Barranco introduced the keynote speaker for the event, Mrs. Lori Riggles, a dedicated Montgomery Catholic teacher and parent. She is the mother of an Montgomery Catholic alumnus and and two current students, Mari Caitlin (10th grade) and Emily (8th grade). Barranco also gave closing remarks thanking all of the Prayer Breakfast sponsors, including: Chappy’s Deli; Alaga Syrup; Craig Sherman, MCPS cafeteria manager; Sharon Kelly, MCPS cafeteria assistant; Alex Johnson, MCPS band director and the MCPS band; and the sophomore class parents and sophomore class sponsor Mrs. Sarah Berg. Deacon Raymond Gueret from Holy Spirit Catholic Church offered the Benediction to end the event, after tenth-grade student Victoria Hardy led those gathered in “Lord Prepare Me to be a Sanctuary.” This is the 17th year Montgomery Catholic has hosted the Prayer Breakfast as a class retreat and service project for the school. Previously hosted by the junior class, 2017 is the first year the sophomore class has taken on the responsibility.

BTW Students Sweep Omega Psi Phi Talent

Booker T. Washington Magnet High students took all four of the top overall awards in the Montgomery Area Omega Psi Phi Talent Hunt competition. The winners were Tiara Turner, first place; Melody Handy, second place; Trinity Ross, third place; and Andarious Porter, fourth place. Along with their trophies, there was a $500 award for first place, $300 for second place, $200 for third place and $100 for fourth place. A total of 13 students took part in the competition in the areas of singing, piano and dramatic monologues.

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Montgomery Academy Chorus Earns National Recognition

The Montgomery Academy Upper School Chorus and Chamber Chorus competed in the Heritage National Choral Competition in New York City at Riverside Church. The Upper School earned First Place and the Chamber Chorus earned Third Place in the 2A Division for Concert and Chamber Choirs. Schools from California, New York, Tennessee, Michigan, Delaware, Illinois Rhode Island and Massachusetts competed–a total of 29 choral ensembles. The Upper School Chorus average score was 96/100 and the Chamber Ensemble average score was also 96/100. This is the first time that the Upper School Chorus has earned First Place honors for three consecutive years (2015 New York, 2016 Seattle, 2017 New York). Montgomery Academy’s choral students are under the direction of Dr. Damion Womack. The Upper School chorus is shown below.

Eastwood Basketball Players Win Postseason Awards

Eastwood Christian School’s Warriors have won several postseason basketball awards from the Alabama Independent School Association. Girls’ Team winners include: Margaret Rhodes, 2nd Team All State, 1st Team All Metro and AISA All Star; Brianna Spiers, 2nd Team All Metro and AISA All Star; Lia Foti, AISA All Metro Honorable Mention; and Adam Coppock, AISA Coach of the Year. Boys’ Team winners include: Thomas Dismukes, Honorable Mention All State, 2nd Team All Metro and AISA All Star; and JanMikael Johnson, Honorable Mention All Metro. Coppock is shown above with the girls’ team.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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Bethany Christian Salutes a ‘Shero’

Bethany Christian Academy students were inspired by a recent visit from their “shero,” Jada Thornton. She shared her story as a courageous cancer survivor who still embraces her dreams even after a leg amputation. Students were inspired to strive for excellence and reaching goals even when obstacles arise.

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Saint James Junior Named Outstanding Delegate

Alabama Dance Theatre Summer Dance Classes May 30 -June 15 & June 26 -July 13 Age 3 to Professional Level Now Accepting Registrations V

Tutus & Tiaras! V June 19-23•Ages 3-8 V

Cornerstone Enjoys Little Schoolhouse on the Prairie

The third-graders at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy traveled back to a day on the prairie to wrap up their study of Farmer Boy by Laura Ingalls Wilder. They enjoyed an afternoon full of sack races, churning butter, a one-room schoolhouse, writing on slate boards, panning for gold, shopping at the general store, washing clothes on washboards and making some yummy funnel cakes like at the county fair. A big thank-you to Mrs. Hough for working so hard on this fun adventurous afternoon!

Saint James students participated in the Youth in City program in mid-April. Junior Stephen Sadie served as a city councilman and was awarded the Outstanding Delegate with Adam Peck from LAMP; Saint James juniors Claudia Hubbard and Katie McIntyre presented an ordinance on creating a green space downtown; and STJ sophomores Trinity Hunter and Travis Hamilton presented an ordinance on banning the Confederate flag’s use within city limits. From left are Stephen Sadie, Katie McIntyre, Elliot Steinwinder, Claudia Hubbard, Trinity Hunter and Travis Hamilton.

Summer Seminar JULY 17 - JULY 31

with Shawn Black, Marianna Tcherkassky and Wendy White Sasser

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At The Armory Learning Arts Center 33

Photo by Richard Calmes

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Bear Artist’s Work Chosen by Principal

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Bear Exploration Center had its annual Art Show on April 6th. Each student had at least one work of art on display for family and friends to enjoy. Students were proud to show off their sketches, paintings, and ceramic pieces. Fifth-grader Ryleigh Miller, shown, won the Principal’s Choice Award and will have her art remain at Bear in a special display.

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Churchill’s Simple Machines and Dynamic Minds

Churchill Academy’s lower school students have participated in a semester-long, all-school hands-on science unit on simple machines. Students were challenged with the task of creating a unique compound machine by combining two or more simple machines. The students worked independently to combine their research with functionality and presented their research to their peers April 11 at Churchill. These dynamic minds came up with unique machines and had a great time doing it.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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Montgomery Academy Sixth-Graders Recreate Olympic Games

It was a gorgeous day at Jasmine Hill for the Montgomery Academy sixth-grade recreation of the Olympic Games and Greek mythology plays. This event is the culmination of the students’ Greek mythology unit and was the 38th annual sixth-grade trip to Jasmine Hill.

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ACA Hosts Annual Spring Benefit Dinner Pike Road Participates in Alabama Youth in Government

Pike Road Councilman Rob Steindorff showed students what it is like to be a representative of the community and work as a team with other council members.

Over its 70 years of existence, Alabama Christian Academy has graduated thousands of students. These students have gone on to become successful contributors in their chosen fields, not only across the United States, but around the world as well. The ACA Spring Benefit dinner celebrated the contributions these Eagles and all future Eagles will make in our community and around the world. As dinner guests “Soar Around the World,” they had the opportunity to participate in live and silent auctions. Students even had some fun and dressed in costume! Personal Touch Events prepared delicious cuisines from around the world.

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Montgomery Catholic Students Give Back During Lenten Day of Service

Historic Pike Road School Site Under Construction

Members of the Pike Road Town Council and the Pike Road Schools Board of Education toured the Historic Pike Road School construction site recently. Renovations are running along, and the campus will be a great addition to Pike Road Schools this fall.

Each year during Lent, Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School’s High School campus sends students out into the community to give back through service. This year Student Activities Coordinator Stefanie Nelson and Principal Justin Castanza, along with the entire high school faculty, worked harder than ever to make the experience meaningful for the students and beneficial to the community. On April 7, after celebrating Mass with Reverend Monsignor Charles Troncale, all ninththrough twelfth-grade students were sent to serve, just as the Catholic Mass ends with the Priest who sends the congregation to “go in peace to love and to serve the Lord.” Each grade level is divided into individual “advisory classes” in the high school, 26 in total. These classes are comprised of groups of 10-15 students. Each group selected a community organization or work site to adopt for their Lenten Service Day. These advisory classes chose something that they felt passionate about and would like to work to improve. Students and teachers worked to contact the locations, organize the tasks, and arrange the day of service, extending Montgomery Catholic’s reach in the community to more locations then in years past and allowing the students to engage in a more meaningful and connected experience. In total, more than 330 students and 50 faculty members and parent volunteers gave more than 1,100 hours in service to the community at 20 locations across the River Region including: YMCA Chandler, YMCA Belser, Alabama Wildlife Federation, Jackson Lake Island in Millbrook, Catholic Social Services, Montgomery Humane Society, John Knox Manor Nursing Home, Greenwood Cemetary, Catholic Social Services, Family Sunshine Center, John Knox Manor Retirement Tower, Prattville/Autauga Humane Society, Goodwill, Montgomery Zoo, Catholic Children’s Ministry at St. Bede, Old Alabama Town, One Church Mission, EAT South, St. Joseph’s School Tuskegee, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts and the American Cancer Society. Shown are a group of sophomore girls who worked with the St. Bede children’s ministry.

MPS and Office Depot Partner for Family Learning Event

Bethany Holds Dr. Seuss Celebration

The Primary Department of Bethany Christian Academy celebrated Dr. Seuss’s birthday with flare and fun. Activities included a “green eggs and ham” breakfast, a slumber party and a literature spotlight read-a-thon. Parents visited and served as volunteer readers. Corporate reader was LeCretia Snow from DXC Company. Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Montgomery Public Schools and Office Depot recently partnered to host a family-style learning event. The “N-GAGE ME” (Networking to Gain Awareness and Grow Empowerment through Meaningful Engagement) activity was the first of its kind for the two organizations. The store on Vaughn Road was transformed into several learning stations with activities ranging from using a deck of cards for addition and subtraction to creating a safety device for an “eggernaut’s” crash landing to using paper cups and Pringles cans to increase vocabulary. Students in K-2 also created geometric shapes using Play-do while high school students had to determine the circumference of a circle to create parachutes. The purpose of the event was to create a “beyond the classroom experience” to engage parents in the learning process. Parents and students walked away with ideas that they could reproduce at home using items that may already be in the home. More than 150 parents and students participated in the free event held on April 1. MPS teachers who served as learning facilitators included from left: Piper Adams (Davis Elem.), Brandy Sanford (Chisholm Elem.), Ashlie Hansberry and Pacosha Hill (Jeff Davis) and Shauntay Gooden and Chenale Taylor (Johnson Elem.) 36

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Saint James Celebrates International Families

To celebrate the many cultures that make up the Saint James School family, the school hosts International Week each year when students and parents are encouraged to share interesting facts and even a few treats from their home countries. In April, third-grade teacher Amy Rodgers welcomed Eynat Jakira and her son, Yotam, to share about Israel. Eynat brought an Israeli snack which the other students loved; she taught the class some of the history of Israel - from the days of Abraham until today; she showed a comparison map of Israel’s (tiny) size with other international families’ countries; and she shocked the students with the tidbit that the original cell phone was invented in Israel. “I could go on and on, but this was truly one of my best International Week visits ever!” said Rodgers. “My students and I learned so much from Eynat and Yotam! What a special time International Week is each year!”

MEA Student Named 43rd In National Recruiting Class

Macon East Academy sophomore Madisyn Kennedy was named 43rd in the nation for softball recruits in the class of 2019. As a freshman, she hit .387 for the Knights last season and had a .433 on-base percentage. Defensively Kennedy had only one error all year earning her 1st team AISA All-State honors. Kennedy has verbally committed to play at Mississippi State in 2020. Currently, she is helping lead the Lady Knights softball team as the girls vie for their sixth consecutive state title. An honor student at Macon East, Kennedy also has received numerous honors for her efforts on the volleyball and basketball teams.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

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

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

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For a FREE Educational Success Consultation please contact the school office

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Macon East Student Receives DAR Good Citizen Award

Macon East Academy’s Alex Wyrosdick was one of four area seniors to receive the Montgomery Chapter’s Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award for 2017. She was nominated by the faculty and staff at Macon East to be the school’s candidate for this prestigious award. The DAR, founded in 1890 and headquartered in Washington, D.C., is a non-profit, non-political volunteer women’s service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history, and securing America’s future through better education for children. This DAR Good Citizen Award recognizes and rewards individuals who possess the qualities of dependability, service, leadership, and patriotism in their homes, schools and communities. Wyrosdick is an honor student at Macon East as well as president of the National Honor Society and Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, vice president of the Student Government Association, and co-captain of the varsity cheerleading squad. She serves weekly as a tutoring mentor with the Nehemiah Center, a ministry of First Baptist Church, and started the Senior Buddies program this year at school. She plans to attend Auburn University in the fall and major in nursing.

Saint James Competes In Finance Challenge

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Saint James School offers eleven pre-college major electives to high school students to engage them in subjects they would like to study in college and pursue as professions after college graduation. In conjunction with the finance class that Cathy Latham teaches at Saint James, she and 12 students traveled to The University of Alabama in April to compete in the Personal Finance Challenge sponsored by the Alabama Council on Economic Education. There were 330 teams who competed, with only 22 chosen for this level of competition. All three Saint James teams qualified.

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Montgomery Academy Lower School Chorus Performs at Southern Star

The Montgomery Academy Eagleaires (third and fourth grade chorus) traveled to Atlanta recently to perform at the Georgia Aquarium, participate in the Southern Star Music Festival, and enjoy Six Flags! Under the direction of Cliff Huckabee, these students earned honors in the competition.

Bear Artist Honored by State Department of Education

Bear Exploration Center student Annie Bressler participated in the Alabama State Department of Education Visual Arts Showcase. Her art was chosen to be displayed for one year at the Alabama State Department of Education. Bressler’s piece was her interpretation of Vincent Van Gogh’s Starry Night.

Holy Cross Third-Graders Enjoy Cross-Curricular Activity

Holy Cross Episcopal School third-grade students in Kathy Black’s class came to the office to show off the eggs they decorated. This was a cross-curricular activity involving more than one subject. It began with the students blowing out their eggs as a special project they were going to enjoy during Easter Week. They learned about the composition of an egg and that an egg yolk is a cell that they can see - with the yolk being the nucleus and the white material being the cytoplasm. They made baskets and learned about congruent figures and line segments for math, and they learned that congruent line segments are congruent if they have the same length but need not be parallel and they can be at any angle or orientation. To finish up this activity, they read Rechenka’s Eggs by Patricia Polacco. Students used science, math and reading skills to complete this two-day activity. 39

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ACA Drama Performs Spring Show

The drama department at Alabama Christian Academy performed Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat for its spring production. The play is based on the famous biblical story of the “coat of many colors.” It is a fun and unique show in that it is sung the entire way through. Students were involved in every aspect of the play from acting, running sound and lights, to backstage help and costumes. ACA senior Blake Mitchell portrayed the main character, Joseph. This production was a special opportunity to involve many ACA students.

Success Unlimited Participates in Art Exhibit

A-Team members from Success Unlimited Academy recently participated in an art exhibit exploring the topic of freedom. Junior Calen Young and senior Nathan Faulk were featured. Young created pencil and pen and ink drawings of Rosa Parks, Coretta Scott King and Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., shown above. Faulk created a metal sculpture from chain links in the shape of an eagle’s wing. In describing his work, Faulk said, “The eagle, long representing freedom, its mighty wing rest here comprised entirely of the chains forever broken by its glory.” These works were on display and will potentially be entered in upcoming art competitions. Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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Catholic Appoints Principals for 2017-18 Year Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School has named Nancy Foley principal at the Holy Spirit Elementary Campus and Justin Castanza as principal for grades 7-12. Foley has served as a fourth-grade teacher at the Holy Spirit campus since it opened in 2012, and has 33 years of teaching experience in Catholic, public and magnet schools. After being named, Foley said, “I am very honored to accept the position of principal of the Montgomery Catholic Holy Spirit Campus. The faculty and families are dedicated to helping our students grow academically and spiritually. In turn, I am dedicated to the teachers, students and families.” Foley received a degree in elementary education from the University of South Alabama and holds a master’s degree in elementary education from Troy University Montgomery.

“I am thrilled that Nancy will take on this leadership position at our Holy Spirit campus. As one of the original faculty members that helped open the campus, she brings with her many years of experience and countless hours in the classroom that will serve our school well,” said Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School President Anne Ceasar. Foley will lead the Holy Spirit campus following the four-person interim leadership team of school President Anne Ceasar, St. Bede Campus Principal Laurie Gulley, Middle School Campus Aassistant Principal Julie Wood and Holy Spirit school counselor Mary Kelley. Foley is married to Mark and they are members of Holy Spirit Parish. She will assume her new duties July 1, 2017. Castanza has been named principal at Montgomery Catholic’s Middle/High School campus, a position he is familiar with after serving as interim principal for the 2016-17 school year. “I am pleased to announce that we are changing Mr. Castanza’s title from interim to principal. He has done an amazing job this year with our students, faculty and parents, providing many novel and rich experiences for all.” Ceasar said. A 2001 graduate of Montgomery Catholic, he received his undergraduate degree

in secondary education and his counselor education master’s degree in student affairs from Mississippi State. Castanza acted as the associate executive director of the YMCA’s Camp Chandler for five years, and he was a teacher and dean of students at Montgomery Catholic’s High School campus before acting as interim principal this academic year. On being named principal, Castanza said, “I continue to be humbled by the support and confidence of our entire school community over the past year. I am excited to lead our school into the future, advance the mission, and help our students deepen their faith and prepare for college. My family and I are blessed to be a part of this community.” Castanza is married to Meghan; they have two children, Vincent and Natalie. They are active members of St. Bede the Venerable Parish in Montgomery.

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Carver’s JROTC Drill Team Ranks in Top 10

George Washington Carver High’s JROTC Drill Team is making a name for itself on the national stage. The team competed in four events at the 2017 U.S. Army Cadet Command JROTC National Drill Championships and is now ranked 27th overall in the nation. That includes a fifth-place ranking in “Unarmed Dual Exhibition” and seventh place in “Unarmed Regulation.” The Carver JROTC Drill Team competed against 91 schools from around the country in the event, which serves as the annual national championship for Army JROTC drill teams. This year marked the championship’s 30th anniversary.

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Pa P Montgomery Academy AP Art Students Host Exhibition at Stonehenge Gallery

The Montgomery Academy AP Art students hosted a lovely evening at Stonehenge Gallery with their final portfolio work on display. Congratulations to AP Art teacher Connie Deal and her students on this exhibition! The students included: Margaret Ann Allen, Tasnim Begum, Issey Behr, Emily Ernest, Darry Freeman and Talya Whyte.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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MEA Junior Attends Youth Tour

Bethany Christian Salutes Lt. Col. Graham

Students at Bethany Christian Academy were honored to host Lt. Col. Eric Graham during â&#x20AC;&#x153;Operation Occupation,â&#x20AC;? an annual celebration of career awareness. All were informed, impressed and inspired!

Park Crossing Junior Makes Perfect AP History Score Park Crossing High School junior John Solis scored a perfect 5 on the recent Advanced Placement US History exam. He also scored 32 on his ACT and 1360 in SAT. Proud parents are Nick and Lalaine Solis.

Tyler Watson, a Macon East Academy junior, was selected to attend the Montgomery Youth Tour March 7-9. He was one of eight area high school juniors representing Dixie Electric Cooperative. Their group, along with 155 other students from Alabama, met at the Renaissance Hotel and learned how cooperatives work, about the legislative process, and the history of Alabama. They also toured many historic sites in downtown Montgomery, met their state representatives, and heard from motivational speaker Cea Cohen-Elliott. Watson was also chosen to represent Alabama at the Washington Youth Tour the week of June 9-15, 2017. This event brings together more than 1,600 high school students from rural areas and small towns across the U.S. to Washington, D.C. to tour various sites and meet members of the legislature. The tour is sponsored by the National Rural Electric Association for the purpose of having students gain personal knowledge of American history, learn about the political process, and interact with elected officials. Watson is shown on the top row, second from left.

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Eastwood’s Whatley Graduates from Renowned Space Academy

Eastwood Christian School sixth-grader Jack Whatley of Pike Road recently attended Space Academy at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center’s Official Visitor Center. The weeklong educational program promotes science, technology, engineering and math (STEM), while training students and adults with hands-on activities and missions based on teamwork, leadership and problem solving. Whatley was part of the Space Academy program, which is designed for trainees who have an interest in space exploration. He spent the week training with a team that flew a simulated space mission to Mars. The crew participated in experiments and successfully completed an extra-vehicular activity (EVA), or spacewalk, and returned to Earth in time to graduate with honors. Space Camp operates year-round in Huntsville, Ala., and uses astronaut training techniques to engage trainees in real-world applications of STEM subjects. Trainees sleep in quarters designed to resemble the International Space Station and train in NASA-inspired simulators. More than 750,000 trainees have graduated from Space Camp since its inception in Huntsville in 1982, including STS-131 astronaut Dottie Metcalf-Lindenburger, European Space Agency astronaut, Samantha Cristoforetti and NASA Expedition 48 astronaut Dr. Kate Rubins. Last year, children and teachers from all 50 states and 69 international locations attended Space Camp. While at camp during spring break week, Whatley was chosen out of all of the campers at Space Camp, to receive the Right Stuff Award. He was commended for his good manners, leadership and positive attitude all week that was noted by all of the staff.

Bethany Christian’s Kutie Ks Learn about Metamorphosis Kindergartners at Bethany Christian are witnessing the metamorphosis process live and in living color! Caterpillars have arrived and the chrysalides are forming and beautiful butterflies are anticipated.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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ACCREDITED K4 THROUGH 12TH GRADE INDEPENDENT COLLEGE-PREPARATORY SCHOOL

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INVESTING IN A LIFETIME

Shaping Leaders that Change the World If you have questions or need additional information, please contact Director of Admission Jenny McClinton at 334.213.2213 or jmcclinton@trinitywildcats.com Tuition assistance available. Discount offered to military families.

trinitywildcats.com M O N T G O M E R Y, A L A B A M A |

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n Trinity graduates have received over $35 million in merit-based scholarships over the last 5 years n The vast majority of Trinity’s AP students score between a 3 and a 5 on their exams, with many students nearly completing their freshman college studies before graduating from Trinity n Trinity’s EnviroBowl Team won the 2016 State Championship—Trinity’s 10th EnviroBowl championship since 2001 n Partnering with a local elementary school, Trinity students serve as “Study Buddies,” as well as provide food to 85 children weekly through “Feeding America’s BackPack Program” n Trinity’s Change 4 Change project has donated over $70,000 in the past three years to charitable organizations in Montgomery and throughout the world Trinity admits students of any race, color, national and ethnic origins to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school. Trinity does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, sex, national or ethnic origins in any of the educational policies, scholarship programs and athletics, and other school-administered programs.

MIDDLE SCHOOL

www.facebook.com/montgomeryparents UPPER SCHOOL ONE CAMPUS

As I have shared many times over the past years, I feel so blessed to not only hold the position of superintendent of Autauga County Schools, but to also be a part of such a thriving and committed community. As citizens of Autauga County, we have much to celebrate. I had the opportunity to be a guest at the Prattville Millbrook Sunrise Rotary Speech Contest at Lanark. The evening started with a delicious dinner. I must say when the contest was over, I was an extremely proud superintendent. The three students from Prattville High are truly remarkable. They are energetic, intelligent, professional, and talented individuals. Congratulations to 1st Place Gentry Slay, 2nd Place Lauren Chambliss, and 3rd Place Madeline Ward.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Friday, March 10th, was a big day for Billingsley School. The ACE competition was held at Wallace Community College (Selma), and I am excited to announce the results! Congratulations to Andrew Dennis, Ryan Spigener, and Dakota Andrews for placing 1st in Information Technology; Anna Jackson for placing 1st in Accounting Individual; MacKenzie Glass for placing 1st in English Composition; MacKenzie Caver, Zania Binion, and Kiara Bell for placing 3rd in Geometry Team; and MacKenzie Caver for placing 3rd in Geometry Individual. Billingsley also won the 2A State Championship in Weight Lifting. Spencer Simpson won bench and squat for the entire meet. She tied the state record for power clean with 135 pounds and set a new squat record with 325 pounds! Hollann Horton won her weight class, and Haley Williams placed 3rd. Jackson Manning won his weight class, and Jonathan Shields placed 4th. Congratulations to Coach Tyler Kelley and his teams! All of the wonderful school activities really lead up to one big event in the lives of our students---graduation. It is truly hard to believe that graduation is upon us once again! Congratulations to our graduates; we are all

extremely proud of your accomplishments, and I wish each of you the best in everything you undertake. Go Eagles, Bears, Bulldogs, and Lions! Listed below are the dates and times for this year’s ceremonies, so you can start your planning. Autaugaville – 6:00 P.M. on Friday, May 26th, at the Davis Theater Billingsley – 6:30 P.M. on Thursday, May 25th, at the Billingsley High School Gymnasium Marbury – 6:30 P.M. on Wednesday, May 24th, at the Renaissance Convention Center Prattville – 7:00 P.M. on Thursday, May 25th, at the ASU Dunn-Oliver Acadome This school year has been outstanding, but it won’t be long before we are kicking off a new one. I look forward to sharing more good news with the citizens of Autauga County.

Spence Agee is the Superintendent of Education for Autauga County Schools. He is a third generation educator with an ED.S. in Educational Leadership. He has 20 years of experience in the education field as well as 29 years of military experience. Agee is an active member at First Baptist Church in Prattville. He and his wife, Cesily, who is also an educator, have two daughters, Abby and Addison.

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Prattville Artists Represent County

Prattville High School represented Autauga County at the State Superintendent’s Visual Arts Exhibit Awards Luncheon on February 9. Congratulations to first-place winner Zoe Sparks, above, and honorable mention Youngho Kwon!

Marbury Archery Program Receives Grant for Kit

NASP (National Archery in the Schools Program) is a nationwide program that teaches students in grades 4-12 about the sport of archery. Students can compete at region tournaments then advance to state and even national competition. Marbury High School teacher Mrs. Lash is certified as a BAI instructor (Basic Archery Instructor) through the NASP program. The group received a partial grant from Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources to purchase a kit for Marbury’s students. The kit includes 12 Genesis Compound Bows, arrows, five targets, arrow net, bow rack and repair kit. Marbury will compete next year in the regional tournament.

PJHS Rewards Students for Positive Behavior

Prattville Junior High School works hard to “take care of business” throughout the year. As we prepare for testing season, we ramp up expectations and encouragement for our students. Every two weeks, students who have been in attendance, completed all assignments, and have had exemplary behavior can participate in TCB celebrations. This year our theme was Excellence Through the Ages and we had a spotlight on each decade. At the TCB celebration, students are entertained with a lip sync from that era. Here, Principal Stockman poses with Assistant Principals Jackson (7th grade) and Camara (8th grade) after her performance of Will Smith’s “Prince of Bel Air.” Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Prattville High School Seniors Score Big on ACT

Twenty-four Prattville High School seniors scored 30 or higher on the ACT. These students were recognized during January and February board meetings. Congratulations to the following: Max Brown, Daniel Burnham, Lauren Chambliss, Christian Chapman, Wesley Donhauser, Hannah Edwards, Grace Glidden, Allison Hall, Benjamin Hendricks, Brooklyn Hollon, Kathryn Holtzscher, David Hyde, Molly Kopf, Connor Lantz, Isobel Moreland, Caitlyn Morris, Eunjee Oh, Deland Saville, Todd Sheridan, Jr., Keitt Trammell, Laura Vickery, Bailey Vinson, Madeline Ward and Aaron Wetmore.

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Prattville Junior High Baseball Team Participates In Field of Dreams for Disabled Players

The baseball team of Prattville Junior High School works hard to sharpen the skills necessary to be a successful team and collect as many wins as possible throughout the season. However, being a part of the Field of Dreams program is a win-win proposition. The YMCA, along with other agencies in Prattville, supports a baseball season for individuals with disabilities. The PJHS Cats played a little baseball with some of our most amazing students. It was a special day for everyone involved. After their participation in the Field of Dreams, the team went on to win its subsequent games for the weekend. When asked about their favorite moments, the players unilaterally said the Field of Dreams game was the best!

PLES Student Visits State Capitol

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Pine Level Elementary School student Megan Horace participated in the 2017 March Proclamation Day signing at the State Capitol on March 29. She was selected to represent the Alabama Early Intervention Program with the Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. Horace started working with the Alabama Early Intervention program when she was three months old. The proclamation signed by Governor Robert Bentley was to highlight EI (early intervention) week which took place the week of April 17. The Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services presented programs and events to bring awareness to Child Find and other early intervention programs available to children and families throughout the State of Alabama.

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Marbury Middle Participates in State Beta Convention

The Marbury Middle School Junior Beta Club sent 33 students to attend the 2017 state convention in Birmingham. The students prepared for months to compete in eight team competitions and 17 individual competitions. Seventh-grader Abby Hall also ran for state vice president. The club brought back six awards, including the Gold Key Award for club growth. The following awards all earned eligibility to compete at nationals in Orlando this summer: Mary Beth Hall placed 1st in Handmade Jewelry; Cameron Poe, Jackson Milam, Caleb Sutton, Ricky Gray and Evan Williamson placed 2nd in Robotics; Zack Johnson placed 3rd in Technology; Eireann Norton placed 3rd in Fiber Arts; and Elena Adams placed 3rd in Sculpture. The robotics team is shown.

Daniel Pratt Celebrates Dr. Seuss

Autauga County Schools celebrated Read Across America on Dr. Seussâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; birthday March 2. Superintendent Spence Agee had a fantastic time reading to students across the county. He is pictured with a class at Daniel Pratt Elementary.

PJHS Inducts New Members into Wall of Honor

Prattville Junior High School began a new tradition to honor the educators who have walked before us. On April 19, an assembly was held to induct five members into the newly established Wall of Honor. These educators have been largely instrumental in making PJHS the school of excellence that exists today. Over the past decades, they have positively influenced the lives of many young men and women. As a token of appreciation, they were presented with a plaque and other memorabilia from PJHS, followed by a reception to review old yearbooks and visit with fellow educators, past and present. The inaugural inductees were: Spence Agee, Larry Butler, Charlie Irwin, Coach Learnest Martin and Bobby Zeigler. They are shown below with PJHS Principal Stockman. Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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Prattville High Speech and Debate Wins Nine State Championships

The Prattville High School Speech and Debate team competed at the Alabama Speech and Debate Association state tournament April 6-8 at Chelsea High School and brought home nine state championships, the most from any other school in the state and the most in Prattville school history. Triple state champion Hannah Edwards won Duo Interpretation, Poetry Interpretation and Programmed Oral Interpretation and her duo partner and double state champion John Bergdolt won Original Oratory, in addition to his duo win. Gentry Slay placed first in Informational Speaking while Lucy Sonsalla won in After Dinner Speaking. And Hanna Cooper garnered Prattville’s first state championship in Varsity Lincoln Douglas. The Prattville team was also awarded the Individual Events Sweepstakes State Championship, and Edwards was recognized as the ASDA Student of the Year. The Student of the Year is the individual who competes in at least five events accumulating the most points. Other students from Prattville who made it to finals are Bergdolt, second in Humorous Interpretation; Slay, second in International Extemporaneous Speaking, third in Impromptu and fourth in Varsity Senate; James McGrady, sixth in Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking; Sandhura Aladawuka, fourth in Impromptu Speaking; Nick Albright, fourth in Domestic Extemporaneous Speaking and a quarter-finalist in Novice Lincoln Doulglas; Landon Kramer, second in Novice Senate, sixth in Original Oratory and a semi-finalist in JV Public Forum; Sonsalla, second in Prose Interpretation; Clayton Donhaser, sixth in Informational Speaking; Wes Donhauser, sixth in Varsity Senate; Noah Kelly, fourth in Novice Senate; Isobel Moreland, a semi-finalist in JV Public Forum, Lauren Chambliss, a quarter-finalist Novice Public Forum and Madison Chambliss, a quarter-finalist Novice Public Forum. The Prattville team is coached by Katy Olienyk and Jordan Berry.

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Georgia Goodman Named Autauga County Bus Driver of the Year

During the April 4 Board Meeting, Autauga County Schools Superintendent Spence Agee and Transportation Supervisor Neil Messick presented Georgia Goodman with a certificate signifying her selection as the 2016-17 Autauga County Driver of the Year. Goodman and Messick attended the annual statewide “Love the Bus” luncheon sponsored by Transportation South in Alabaster. 51

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Marbury High FFA Visits State House

Prattvilleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Archery Team Competes at State

Prattville High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Archery Team competed in the State Archery Tournament April 7 sponsored by the Alabama Conservation Department. The team placed fifth out of 18 high schools.

On April 11, around 200 Future Farmers of America members from around the state came together to meet with local and state legislators to thank them for their support of agriculture and career & technology education. After a picture on the state steps, a program was held to include speakers Senator Tom Whatley, Representative David Sessions and Representative Nathaniel Ledbetter. After the program, Marbury FFA members had the chance to receive a personal tour of the House of Representatives Chamber from Speaker of the House Mac McCutcheon and Representative Jimmy Martin. FFA members also had the chance to see the Senate Chambers and tour the State House Grounds. The members enjoyed their time and thank all the legislators for their support and warm welcome.

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Creative Learning @ New Hope

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New Hope Academy students are learning how to enunciate using silly face masks! Teachers are always finding new and creative ways to make learning fun and meaningful.

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Prattville’s Cureton Named French Teacher of the Year Prattville High School’s Silvana Cureton received an outstanding award at the Alabama World Language Association’s Annual Conference. She was named French Teacher of the Year!

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PCA’s Greene Selected Bryant-Jordan Scholar

Prattville Christian Academy senior Peri Greene was recently honored at the BryantJordan Student Athlete Awards Banquet in Birmingham. Greene was selected from student athletes across Alabama as the BryantJordan Scholar for Class 3A, Region 3. The Bryant-Jordan Student Athlete Awards Banquet recognizes Alabama high school students who are considered the most outstanding among their peers because of their high level of athletic and academic success. Nomination criteria includes gradepoint average, class standing, college test scores and sports played, as well as student and civic leadership. Greene maintains a 3.98 grade-point average while also being active in cross country, basketball, volleyball, cheer, track and soccer, as well as participating in and leading various extracurricular and church activities. After graduation, Greene will attend Lipscomb University in Nashville. While she does not plan to play collegiate sports, Greene will remain active with intramural sports on campus. “Peri’s Christian leadership on and off the field is what you dream about in a student athlete,” said Tara Osborne, PCA’s athletic director. “With her ever-present smile, consistent hard word and encouragement of others, she’s the type of athlete you want representing your school. Peri is a true example of a selfless individual and will be greatly missed on campus next year.” 53

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If you really want to know what is happening in a school, ask the students! Recently, I assembled a small group of students from our four high schools to serve as my Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council. The following students were selected by their principals to represent their schools: Clay Brown and Jackson Dean, Elmore County High School; Emmalee Langley and Jack Broom, Holtville High School; Eleanor Cox and Altagrace Toussaint, Stanhope Elmore High School, and Kasie Thomas, Micayla Johnston, and Michael Johnston, Wetumpka High School. My goal was to get the students’ perspectives regarding their overall educational experience in our system. They shared freely and candidly which allowed me to gain valuable insight into their experiences as students. The students were thoughtful and articulate in their responses, and they demonstrated an impressive depth of knowledge of and loyalty to their schools. We discussed a wide range of topics including curriculum, extracurricular activi-

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

ties, technology, safety, and facilities. We began our conversation with extracurricular activities, an essential component at the high school level. These students represented a broad spectrum of extracurricular activities including baseball, football, soccer, volleyball, band, theater, and yearbook staff, not to mention those with parttime jobs. I explained that I intend to expand extracurricular programs to help students discover their interests and follow their passions. I encouraged them to continue to pursue activities that they enjoy, and extracurricular activities provide those opportunities for students. In the area of curriculum, the students agreed that they felt very prepared for college and referred to the high expectations of many of their teachers. We discussed the challenges we face as a school system to recruit and retain quality teachers, particularly in certain high-demand areas such as science, math, and special education. I assured them that we are committed to hiring teachers with the strongest backgrounds possible to provide students with quality educational opportunities. Our discussion of technology centered around whether there is sufficient access to technology on their campuses and how technology, including cell phones, is utilized in the classroom. Students offered positive comments about

the technology in their schools. Ongoing training for staff and students is critical to keep pace with the constantly changing technology landscape. We all agreed that there are additional skills students will need to be successful in an increasingly paperless society and that we would focus our efforts to that end. Finally, the students expressed various concerns in the areas of safety and facilities. We discussed steps that had already been taken in these areas as well as plans to address others in the near future. People often assume that most students are like the ones they read about in the newspaper and don’t realize all the great students out there. This fine group of young people is representative of those “great students.” Giving students a voice will help us achieve our goal of building a more student-centered culture in Elmore County, and I look forward to the days ahead! Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He completed his undergraduate degree in English and History Education at The University of Alabama, his Master’s degree in English at Troy University and his Administrative Certification at AUM. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.

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Elmore County Schools

Local Homeschoolers Go Medieval

WES Celebrates Literacy

Wetumpka Elementary celebrated Literacy Night March 2. Students were able to read books and take AR tests in the computer lab. Mystery readers, fun games, a photo booth, and refreshments were also included in this fun event.

Homeschoolers reveled in Medieval costumes and customs at their recent Medieval Feast, held at the Academy Days Homeschool Co-op in Millbrook. King of the Feast Cecil Coon of Montgomery and Queen Hannah Collins of Prattville raised their glasses with their noble ladies and knights, Gabriella Newell of Montgomery, Kenna Shields of Prattville, Gianna Russo of Wetumpka, Chase Turner of Montgomery, Ryder Collins of Prattville and Clayton Chastain of Montgomery. During the feast, all the homeschoolers and their parents sampled a buffet of roasted chicken, marinated beef, and various tarts and custards, served Medieval style – without forks! As they enjoyed their meal, they learned about Medieval customs and watched sword fights and other period demonstrations by skilled members of the Shire of Thorngill, the local chapter of the Society for Creative Anachronism. The Academy Days Co-op, held weekly during the school year at Coosada Baptist Church, is designed for preschool through high school students to learn subjects difficult to teach at home or best taught in group settings. Visit www.AcademyDays. com for more information.

ARIS Holds Annual Art Celebration

Victory Third-Graders Take Field Trip

Mr. Nolin’s third-grade class at Victory Baptist School had an informative time at the Montgomery Coca-Cola Bottling Company. As the students arrived, they were taken to the conference room where they learned about the history of Coke. From the conference room, students were led into the factory where they saw many types of machines at work. Some machines were designed to make plastic bottles for water, while other machines poured Coke into the bottles. The class also observed the room where Coke products were made. Students learned about the many different jobs at the factory. After the tour, the students were taken back to the conference room where each child and parent received a gift bag and free bottles of Coke or Coke products bottled at the factory. After this, the class went to Pratt Park for lunch. Students enjoyed feeding the ducks and playing on the playground. Before returning to school, students went to Prattville’s Wilderness Park where they had the opportunity to observe 60-ft. tall bamboo. Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Airport Road Intermediate School held its annual Art Festival April 21. It was a wonderful time where students’ creative abilities were celebrated. The ARIS choir performed a medley of songs and the ARIS dance team performed its award-winning routine. Parents were welcomed into an art gallery atmosphere where students had created unique works of art. Select students were awarded the opportunity for their art to advance to the Sparking the Arts Contest held by the Elmore County Art Guild.

Holtville Honor Roll Breakfast

Upon conclusion of each quarter, Holtville Elementary recognizes students that made the All-A or A & B Honor Roll. The students are rewarded with an Honor Roll Breakfast. At the Third Quarter Honor Roll Breakfast, the students enjoyed a doughnut and received a brief message from Elmore County Board of Education Chairman Michael Morgan, who applauded the students for their academic success and challenged them to continue to press forward and work hard. 56

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EES Awards March Students of the Month

Kindergarten students include: Kinsley Dunn, Hunter Griffith, Dalton Boswell, Eason Clark, Brantley Loftin and Charlie Barnes 1st Grade: Blaine Attaway, Shiyanne Grier, Maria Morales, Hunter Hines, Brailey Moncrief and Mason Byram 2nd Grade: Caden Bryant, Stran Webb, Adam Sprinkle, Jordyn Smith and Joshua Mulder 3rd Grade: Brody Billock, Bailey Walker, Taylor Stubbs, Brenna Walker, Bailey Gardner and Kaden Lamberth 4th Grade: Chelsey O’Banion, Jaden Eason, Kailey Jones, Abe McGhee and Lex Ward

Millbrook Middle Student Wins Free Throw Contests

Millbrook Middle School sixth-grader Brodie Cockrell won the Elmore County Free Throw Competition (11 year old boys’ division). He then competed in the State Free Throw Competition in Montgomery on March 11 and won, shooting 25 out of 25 free throws.

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RES Sixth-Graders Collect for Charity

Redland Elementary sixth-graders in Louis Johnson’s homeroom class brought in 103 canned/dry good items for the school’s Relay for Life campaign. 57

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Elmore County Schools

Airport Road Dancers Rake in Awards

The Airport Road Intermediate School Dance Team competed in its annual dance competition. The third- and fourth-grade dancers got Platinum, Special Judgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Award for Showmanship, and First Place Overall!

Holtville Holds ACT Aspire Awards Ceremony

Holtville Elementary School recently held an ACT Aspire awards ceremony. Students were given a Silver Presidential Award and a Bulldog pin for scoring Exceeding on either Math or the Reading portion of the ACT Aspire. Students who scored Exceeding in both subjects received a Gold Presidential Award for their achievements, as well as a Bulldog pin. Before concluding the ceremony, the Top 5% of the highest-scoring students were recognized and presented with an Academic Excellence Medal. This ceremony not only recognized students for their success on the ACT Aspire, but it also motivated the third-grade students that will take the ACT Aspire soon.

Got news? Send us your school bits by the 12th of each month to: editor@montgomeryparents.com

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Victory First-Graders Visit Pretend Hospital Mrs. Dunaway’s first-grade class at Victory Baptist School had an informative and handson experience at Baptist’s Pretend Hospital in Montgomery. As the students arrived, they were checked in to the pretend hospital where three students were chosen to act as a patient, mother and father. After check-in, the students were taken to the first area, where they posed for pictures wearing scrubs and stethescopes. Then the students were taken to an area where the patient, mother and father in the group were registered for their child’s pretend hospital stay. From check-in, students were taken around the pretend hospital to experience different areas of a hospital. Students learned what it would be like to be a patient as well as different areas they might have to visit while being in the hospital. The class ended the day by going to Millbrook Park to eat lunch.

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Wetumpka’s FFA Teaches WES About Animals

Wetumpka High School’s Future Farmers of America club brought several animals for the students at Wetumpka Elementary to see. Students were able to learn about pigs, horses, turkeys, goats and ducks.

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ParentingToday’sTeens

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Modesty in a Seductive Teen Culture I live with 35 high school girls who fully understand the need for modesty, but are challenged to “fit in” to a culture that doesn’t exactly affirm the values they know to be true. I, as all our staff at Heartlight, face this issue on a daily basis. Remember the crazy fads in the late 60s and 70s? The tie-dyed shirts, the beads, headbands, and the peace symbols? When I was in high school my dad hated my bushy sideburns and long hair, my purple bell-bottoms and boots that came up over my knees. It was a fad to look like the rock idols of the day and that look was in. My appearance made no sense to my parents, but it made a lot of sense to me at the time. I bet there are things your parents didn’t like about the way you dressed as a teenager. Chances are, you don’t still dress that way, and when you look at those old pictures you may giggle, as I do, about how foolish you looked back then. Today, I mostly hear from concerned parents of teenage girls who want to dress too seductively. They wonder how to deal with the issue of seduction when it has become so pervasive in our culture. Teens today live in a world of sexual innuendo, where outward packaging and presentation is all important. The definition of modesty has changed for them, not so much because of the lack of values taught by parents, but because of the overwhelming exposure given to seductive lifestyles. For the most part, dressing seductively is just a fad, and all fads pass soon enough. If your teen wants to be in on the fad of the moment, it doesn’t mean much of anything about her character, other than that she is playing out a role on the stage Montgomery Parents I May 2017

of adolescence. Generally speaking, she hasn’t gone off the deep end just because she wants to wear current fashions. This fad can be a challenge for parents to manage, since the Internet, coupled with magazines, television, music videos and movies, have all inundated our kids with seductive images and inappropriate suggestions. Highly sexualized lifestyles are touted as normal, so girls face extreme social pressure to look and act seductively as well. Girls from good Christian homes often tell me they are torn between doing what is acceptable by their peer group to “fit in,” and doing what is taught them by their families and church. More times than not, the social pressures for the teen to look and act like their peers will win out when they are in school or out with their friends. But they will soon realize that the end result of their seductive presentation — when guys do pay attention — is not always what they expected, or what they really wanted in the first place. My advice for parents is to not flip out when your daughter is just trying to fit in. Using harsh words that defame her character such as, “you look like a …” will only push her deeper into the negative behavior. Rather, calmly and regularly address the more important issue of modesty. Focusing on modesty, versus putting down the current fashion as our own parents did with us, will eliminate the perceived generation gap. And that way, when the next fad comes 60

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KEY POINT: Make sure she understands that modesty is an important part of your family’s values and that’s not an area you’ll allow to be compromised, no matter what the current culture or fad says. Is maintaining modesty going to be easy? No. But by being diligent and also showing that you understand her need to fit in with the culture she lives in, you’ll be able to maintain a good relationship with your little princess as you navigate and struggle through these tough waters. In the long run, a strong and open relationship with your child, coupled with uncompromising values of modesty, will best insure that she maintains appropriate dress, even when you aren’t looking. “…have(ing) righteous principles in the first place…they will not fail to perform virtuous actions.” – Martin Luther Dressing seductively is a fad today for teenage girls… you think? Like any other fad, it will pass soon enough. Parenting teenage girls to be modest in their appearance in the midst of this fad is a tough place to be, and every concerned parent I know hopes it will pass a little quicker. But then again, who knows what the next fad will bring?

Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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ACE of the River Region Has Impressive First Year

A little less than a year ago, ACE of the River Region, a tumbling and all-star cheer gym opened its doors in Montgomery. In that amount of time, the gym’s all-star teams competed and earned a bid to The One Finals, a two-day/performance championship competition that took place in New Orleans. Both teams gave everything they had and in the end, the Youth Level 1 Dragonflies had two ZERO deduction routines both Saturday and Sunday. The Senior Level 3 Kodiaks brought home first place and received championship rings. If you are interested in joining the ACE Family, evaluations are May 12-13. You can find information on the gym, its owners, and what they have to offer at www.acetribe.com and click on the Montgomery link or find them on Facebook as ACE of the River Region. ACE of the River Region is owned by Josh Olson and Conni and Cory Olson, of Prattville. Josh is a graduate of Prattville High School and has a degree in excercise and sports science. While in high school, he cheered for Top Dog All-Stars, then for the University of Hawaii and the University of Alabama, where his team won a Cheerleading National Championship in 2011. He has coached cheer and tumbling and been an all-star director at gyms in Tuscaloosa and Georgia. After coming home, he and his family have become a part of the world-famous ACE Cheer Company and opened the Montgomery location in May 2016.

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

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Tonya Speed’s Dancers Compete at Platinum Contest

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection competed at Platinum National Dance Competition, where the dancers received numerous Platinum and Gold awards and a Platinum Plus and First Overall Award for their Motown Production! The dance studio was honored with the Sportsmanship Award out of more than 20 studios attending! Come join us this summer for camps and classes.

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These days my teenage daughter cheerfully refers to herself as an ambivert, meaning a person who possesses both introvert and extrovert qualities. But this was not always the case. When she was an infant and a toddler, my daughter was highly sensitive and shied away from strangers, did not embrace new situations, and had trouble making transitions. She showed all of the signs of not only being introverted, but also of being a highly sensitive person. She was picky about what she ate, showed an automatic resistance to new foods, and only adapted to anything new, whether food, people or situations, at her own pace. Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Do you know where you and your children fall on the introvertextrovert spectrum? Keep in mind that while temperament is typically consistent for a lifetime, it is not a life sentence. Parents can and do make a difference in helping introverted and sensitive children acclimate themselves to the ways of the world. Don’t avoid learning about temperament because you fear what you will discover about your child. No one tendency is better than any other, even if it is more common. Knowledge is always power, especially when it comes to our family dynamics and our children’s development.

Temperament Definitions Let’s look at commonly accepted definitions of important words when it comes to identifying temperaments of you and your children. The estimated percentage ranges come from recent expert opinions. Extrovert: An extrovert is typically considered an outgoing, gregarious person. Extroversion means the act of directing one’s attention outward or to things outside the self. Extroverts typically prefer the external environment over exploring their own thoughts and feelings. Estimated percent of population: 50-74% 62

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Introvert: Historically considered a shy person, but this is not always true. An introvert prefers his own thoughts and feelings over attention to the external environment. Preferring his own company or favoring the company of one or a few people rather than exposure to many or a crowd of people. Estimated percent of population: 33-50% Ambivert: A person possessing the qualities of both an extrovert and an introvert. Estimated percent of population: 38-66% Highly Sensitive Person (HSP): According to Susan Cain, author of the book Quiet, The Power Of Introverts In A World That Can’t Stop Talking, an HSP processes information about the emotional and physical environment deeply. Tends towards philosophical and spiritual thinking rather than materialistic and hedonistic thinking. Observes carefully before taking risks. Describes self as creative or intuitive. Loves music, nature, art, and physical beauty and is highly empathic. Estimated percent of population: 15-20%

An Extroverted World According to introversion expert Susan Cain, we live in an extroverted world, where these qualities tend to be embraced and praised more than introvert qualities. Since introversion is not typically celebrated in children, you can imagine that a child who is introverted and highly sensitive might have an even more difficult time fitting in and finding a comfortable tribe. Some parents unwittingly pressure children to be more social than they wish to be out of a fear of children being left out or falling behind socially. An extrovert parent may not fully understand the temperament of an introvert child and may pressure a child to change

Some parents unwittingly pressure children to be more social than they wish to be out of a fear of children being left out or falling behind socially. An extrovert parent may not fully understand the temperament of an introvert child and may pressure a child to change behavior without considering the child’s point of view. behavior without considering the child’s point of view. Naturally, overly fearful concern can be detrimental to a child’s development. The first thing parents need to do when it comes to identifying their own and their children’s temperaments is relax. Temperament is not something that typically changes throughout a person’s life, so it is important to detach from judging your own temperament as well as the temperament of your spouse and children. Temperament is about how each person feels naturally, not merely about how they behave. Practice accepting each person for who they feel they are. Try to better understand the point of view of each family member by listening to what they want you to understand without trying to change anyone. More than any other desire, people usually wish to seen, understood and accepted for who they truly are.

Helping Children Thrive As They Grow Let’s talk about ways parents can help an introverted child and highly sensitive child cope with living in an extroverted world as they grow up. Here are some tips for helping any child adapt to an extroverted world as he or she grows: Babies need what they need. No mother is going to be praised for having a fussy, sensi-

tive baby. But your baby is who she is and the first thing you can do to better bond with your baby is identify and accept what temperament baby you have. So if you have a fussy, sensitive baby, try to give her what she needs without expecting her to be a babbling, jovial baby. Pay close attention to your baby’s signals and learn how to respond by trusting your own instincts and applying reasonable trial and error. And don’t be surprised when your baby becomes more bouncy and bubbly once you start paying closer attention to what she needs rather than paying so much attention to what others project. Toddlers are born to stretch and explore. Your introverted and highly sensitive toddler may not be as adventurous as others, but don’t let this disappoint you. Be loving and encouraging and celebrate even the smallest of milestones with glee. Sensitives often reserve their hesitation for the company of strangers and may act like any other toddler while surrounded by loved ones. However, be careful not to confuse unmet milestones with introversion or sensitivity. If you have a milestone concern, be sure to discuss it with your physician. Pre-schoolers participate in structured activities. If getting your introverted and sensitive child through the door of the school is a challenge in and of itself, try scaffolding the transition. In her podcast for parents and educators, Cain suggests taking baby steps. First walk your

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child all the way into the classroom. The next day, stop at the door. The next day, stop down the hall a bit. You get the picture. If this strategy isn’t working, enlist the help of a welcoming, familiar presence to ease the way. I know my daughter always managed transitions best with a quick forecast of what was about to happen. Elementary-schoolers are finding friends and co-creating together. Recess might be torture for your little introvert or HSP, unless he can connect with some children in his class who share his temperament. Consult with the teacher or playground monitor to enlist assistance and brainstorm ideas. Many children at this age play group imagination games during recess rather than sports and other more physical games. Some kids may switch back and forth between groups depending on how they feel. Encourage your child to find the friends who are doing activities he enjoys most each day. Middle-schoolers are becoming aware of who they are in the social hierarchy. Bully-proofing your introverted and highly sensitive child is important, so don’t hesitate to discuss and even role-play how to handle socially aggressive situations. Bullying happens, and though it’s unclear whether introverts and highly sensitive children are bullied more, they certainly may take negative treatment more to heart. Above all, encourage your child to progress socially at her own pace. High-schoolers need to use their aptitudes and skills. By the time your introvert or HSP gets to high school, she will definitely want to find her tribes. Luckily many introverted options are usually available at the high-school level. Consider activities like fine arts, creative writing, martial arts, and robotics. Some introverts may even enjoy choir, band, and theater. As for sports, your sensitive child may prefer sports with less physical contact like swimming, softball, baseball, track, tennis or dance. Don’t be concerned if your child does not immediately find peer groups in high school. A little bit of shuffling of friend and activity choices is common when kids are learning to be more clear about what they like and want. College-aged kids are practicing becoming adults. Your college-aged sensitive needs balance. He may embrace the usual college social situations like class rites of passage, fraternity rush, and themed dances, but find he needs more down time between social events than his peers. Try to choose a college that honors the needs of more introverted students. Your student would likely prefer one roommate to three, a large library with designated quiet rooms and lots of nooks and crannies for hiding away, and scholarly programs that honor the way he learns best. mp Christina Katz is an introvert who was often confused as an extrovert when she was growing because of her strong verbal skills. She hopes to help parents understand that not all introverts are shy, and not all extroverts are highly verbal, but all people crave acceptance and appreciation just the way they are.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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ADT Represents City & State in Phoenix

With the generous support of The JK Lowder Foundation, the Jean and Adolph Weil, Jr. Family and Senator Quinton T. Ross, Jr., the Alabama Dance Theatre, in its 30th Pearl Season, will travel to Phoenix, Ariz., to represent the City of Montgomery and the State of Alabama. The RDA (Regional Dance America) National Festival will take place May 1-7. This prominent festival brings all ember companies in all five regions of the United States together. Young dancers can attend classes with renowned faculty, perform as a company, audition and be seen by college recruiters and prestigious companies from around the nation. At the festival ADT dancers, along with 200 dancers from throughout the U.S., will also have the opportunity to attend seminars from experts in the field of dance history, medicine, nutrition and a variety of dance related topics. They will attend performances featuring some of the nation’s finest dancers. $350,000 in scholarships will be awarded this year. Recruiters from nearly every major college and university dance program in the country will be in attendance. Sara Sanford’s “are we human?” was selected by adjudicator Leslie Jane Pessemier for the Saturday evening program. “are we human?”, with music by Morning Tale I, Nocturne, II. Awaking-Jakub Ciupinski, Vicky Crow, will be danced by Aloria Adams, Orobosa Aghedo, Catherine Cobb, Mary Olivia Dudley, Amelia Felder, Savannah Golden, Francie Hill, Sarah Messick, Maya Pegues, Virginia Perry and Lauren Taylor. Thirty-five Alabama Dance Theatre dancers, staff and chaperones will be attending the Festival. ADT, an Honor Company in RDA/SERBA, is based at the Armory Learning Arts Center. Classes are offered from age 3 to the professional level. The Alabama Dance Theatre is under the direction of Kitty Seale. For more info on summer classes and performances, call (334) 241-2590 or visit alabamadancetheatre.com.

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Family Karate Center Performs at Churchill Spring Family Day

The Family Karate Center’s students and staff perform selfdefense techniques for tri-county family, church, public and school events. Demonstrating safety techniques for Churchill Academy for their Spring Family Day recently was fun for the many Churchill students who also attend Family Karate Center. For a free demonstration for your school, special needs class, daycare or church, stop by or call Family Karate Center at 220-9319. 65

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Thinking About Video Game Violence Once school is out, many kids turn to video games to fill their extra free time. Unfortunately, deciding which games are unacceptable has the potential to create family conflict not only between parents and kids, but also between spouses. One Harris poll found that mothers were much more likely than fathers to make rules about video games, perhaps because they were less likely to be gamers themselves. Many gamers believe that violent video games can be a healthy outlet for aggressive feelings. They point out that during the twenty years when video games have been popular, the rate of violent crime has actually decreased. Although it’s true that most gamers do not become criminals, it is also true that these decades have seen a rise in other types of aggression including bullying. Dr. Craig Anderson, Director of the Center for the Study of Violence, in Ames, Iowa, believes the link between video games and aggression is indisputable. After analyzing 130 research studies, he found conclusive evidence that exposure to video game violence increases both aggressive thinking and behavior and reduces empathy and kindness. “All games teach something,” Anderson observes, “and that ‘something’ depends upon what they require the player to practice.” At the same time, violence turns out to be surprisingly hard to define. Is it harmful to have an avatar that slays dragons with a sword? Is it damaging to pretend to be a football player who flattens another player? What’s the effect of taking the point of view of a soldier shooting enemy combatants? Obviously, the rules that make sense for video game violence change as children mature. For kids under 12 who are still developMontgomery Parents I May 2017

ing a sense of right and wrong, it makes sense to exercise tight control. Seek out games that have educational value and, whenever possible, pro-social values. The non-violent games section of CommonSenseMedia.org is a good place to start. Around middle school, many children, especially boys, will lobby hard to play games that are popular with their friends. Although it’s tempting to ban certain games, that approach doesn’t necessarily give your son the tools he’ll need to evaluate games he encounters at the homes of friends or, eventually, in a college dorm room. Instead, talk to your child about what he or she hopes to get from the game he wants to play. A sense of comraderie with friends? The thrill of doing something forbidden? The challenge of conquering difficult obstacles? Have your child make a case for why the game is a good way to spend free time. Then express your own concerns, being as specific as possible about why a particular game worries you. Does the game endorse gang culture or criminal behavior? Promote use of drugs and alcohol? Include language that is coarse or obscene? Encourage disrespect toward women or minorities? Include violence that is unnecessarily brutal or gratuitous? Talking through these issues won’t be easy and, in the end, you are likely to decide that certain games have no place in your home. Still, research suggests that the conversations are worthwhile because they help young people think critically about the content of video games and that, in turn, makes them less susceptible to their influences. Here are other things parents can do at every age. 66

Play games together when you can. If you aren’t a natural gamer, let your child walk you through the game. Pay attention to things that are constructive—cooperation among players to get to a goal, strategic thinking, coordination. Notice the effect that the game has on your child. Does he or she become animated, aggressive, confident, withdrawn? Use ESRB ratings. They aren’t perfect, but they will protect kids from some of the most violent games. (For an explanation of the ratings, visit www.ESRB.com) Supplement the ratings by talking to other parents and reading reviews from organizations that respect the values you are trying to instill in your children. Doubting a certain game? Rent before you buy. Teach healthy conflict resolution. From a young age, help your child express feelings and develop empathy for the feelings of others. Actively encourage your kids to resolve disagreements through creative compromise. Teach them how to release anger and frustration without violence. If your child is having trouble resolving conflicts peaceably in real life, restrict access to video games. Enforce time limits. Research suggests that the aggressive spill-over from video games is less serious when kids have the self-discipline to step away from the game. Help your child develop that kind of self-control by establishing time limits for video games. If necessary, enforce the rules with parental controls. Finally, it’s important to remember that the powerful teaching capabilities of video games can be enlisted to promote cooperation and goodwill instead of aggression and mayhem. At Screenagers, they’ve compiled a list of ten games that provide a great gaming experience without a lot of gore (http://tinyurl.com/ h2m7oal). If parents can encourage video game companies to develop more games like that, everyone in the family will be happy! Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2017, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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Ca In today’s digital age, families are spending more time inside and less exploring nature. Studies show that kids who spend time outside have better overall health and fitness levels, report better vision, less stress and depression, and are more likely to have good social skills. (www.nwf.org) The National Wildlife Federation also reports that “Spending time outside raises levels of Vitamin D, helping protect children from future bone problems, heart disease, diabetes, and other health issues.” As kids spend more and more time watching TV and playing video games on a daily basis, only about 10 percent of kids say they are spending time outdoors every day.” (www.nature.org) If your kids fall into the 90% of children that don’t get out every day, here are some fun ways to change that. Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Become a nature artist

Kids will begin to notice the beauty in nature if they are observing it from an artist’s standpoint. Bring the easel and art supplies out to the backyard and have the kids paint or draw what they see around them. Let the kids try their hand at photography while exploring nature by photographing plants, insects, and the landscape around them. Later make a scrapbook or frame their masterpieces.

Get dirty

Dress the kids in play clothes and give them permission to enjoy nature even if they get a little dirty, suggests Julie Keller, mother of three. Allow kids to dig for worms, lift rocks to find insects, and try fishing. Teach kids about gardening while 68

letting them plant flowers, vegetables, and other plants. Kansas mom Ally McDaniel says, “My four year old loves to help plant, dig in dirt, and water the garden. We look for worms, bugs, and baby snakes.” Kids that grow up planting and gardening develop a lifelong positive relationship with plants and trees. (www.childrenandnature.org)

Get comfortable

Collect some old pillows and blankets, bring them outside, and get comfortable. Darcy King, mother of two, says, “I teach my kids to enjoy nature by enjoying it myself. Stop and admire flowers, sunsets, scenery, and spend time outside.” Simply spending time in the great outdoors can help kids grow to love nature. Observe your surroundings and talk about what you see and hear. Read a book, take www.montgomeryparents.com

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a nap, and observe the cloud shapes. A great book for encouraging creativity when looking at cloud shapes is It Looked Like Spilt Milk, by Charles Shaw.

Have a picnic

Pack a picnic and enjoy a meal outside after a hike, at a local park, or even in your own backyard. Without the distractions of the normal surroundings of your home, conversation will be easier and more fun.

Treasure hunt

Allow kids to take their time as you are on a nature walk. Do you see any flowers, insects, or birds you have not noticed before? If the park allows, collect treasures as you walk the trails. Have the children pick up sticks, rocks, leaves, or anything of interest. “We make it into a game. When we go on walks we collect small things to put in our nature jars. One time we even did a scavenger hunt after dark with a flashlight, which was a big hit.” says Rachael Kennedy, mother of five.

Campout

Camping is a great way to spend time in the outdoors as a family. A family campout, whether at a local park or in your backyard, encourages family bonding time and helps kids “unplug” from their electronics and enjoy the fresh air. One of the most important things to remember when you are trying to teach your kids is to model it yourself. “We try to get out and explore together. I try to just let them be in nature and really experience what exists,” says Sara Sinani, mother of three boys. Get involved, show the kids by example that nature is fun to explore and has great health benefits. If kids grow up spending time outside, they are sure to develop a desire to spend more time outdoors as they grow. mp Sarah Lyons is a mother of six who loves to explore parks and go camping with her family.

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Art/Music/Theater Alabama Christian Academy Grow Camps ad on page 11

4700 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery Six One-week sessions from June 5-July 21. Camp Eagle is a FUN-tastic first class day camp for ALL kids ages 5-completed 5th grade. Come experience a summer of fun at Camp Eagle. Every single day is filled with an exciting variety of activities. Your child will participate daily in recreational and cooperative games, arts and crafts, sports activities, academic components, praise time, swimming, free time field trips and more. (334) 277-1985 dsanford@alabamachristian.org www.acacampeagle.org

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Theatre Camps ad on page 51

1 Festival Drive, Montgomery Behind the Curtain: Technical Theatre Camp (Grades 9-12) Dates TBA, 9:00am - 4:00 p.m. $300 When directors and actors need sets, lights, sound and costumes so they can look good, whom do they turn to? You! Learn from the best master theatre artists and designers in the business! Broadway South Musical Theatre Camp (Grades 9-12) July 24-28, 9:00am - 4:00 p.m. $300. If you’re a triple threat just waiting to happen-you need to come to camp! Sing, dance and act side by side with real live professional actors on the ASF stage. At the end of the week they might be asking you for your autograph! Camp Shakespeare (grades 4-6) July 10-14 or July 17-21, 8:30am - 4:00 p.m. Fee: $300. Work with real New York based actors as you learn to act, move and cross swords like the pros. You don’t know what cool is until you can sound like a Shakespearean actor! Camp Shakespeare Extreme (grades 7-12) June 19-23 or June 26-30, 9:00am - 4:00 p.m. $300. It’s Camp Shakespeare but - extreme. Dig deeper into your character, move effortlessly around the stage, learn to project and enunciate! Don’t know what enunciate means? You will when everyone is hanging on every word during your monologue. Camp Shakespeare Junior (grades 5-8) July 5-8 or June 12-26. Fee: $149. An introduction to theatre for your 5 to 8 year old, engaging them with dramatic play and theatre games. A great preparation for Camp Shakespeare! (334) 271.5393

glambert@asf.net www.asf.net

Armory Learning Arts Center ad on page 52

1018 Madison Ave., Montgomery Lot of Summer Programs to choose from. Dates and programs to be announced in May. Please call for more information. Please call for more information on class types and times. (334) 241.ARTS (2787)

ASU Tonea Stewart’s Performing Arts Camp ad on page 73

Performing Arts Camps in acting, singing, dancing, oral interpretation, and technical theater. TAPS-Theatre Artist Performance School (Ages 6-12) Enrichment Activities Program held May 30- June 10, $325 Registration Cost CAMP 3T-Teaching Through Theatre Montgomery Parents I May 2017

(Ages 13-18) Residential program in performance for teenagers held June 18-24, $375 Registration TTI-Technical Theatre Initiative (Ages 15-18) Practical training in the technical arts held June 5-10 & June 18-24; $215/Five hours daily GIFTED-Giving Individual Freedom to Express Diversity (Ages 13-21) A performance program for individuals with special needs held; (Tues.-Weds.Thurs.) July 11-14 All applications require a $50 non-refundable deposit to be applied towards the camp fee. (334) 229.6755

toneastewartcamps.com

Barb’s Summer Art Camp ad on page 57

1923 Mulberry Street 3 day ART CAMPS with Barb Grimes for 5 and up...$40 a day or $120 for 3 days; Tues, Wed & Thurs. from 1 pm - 3:15 pm. Multi media workshops...painting, collage, texture, pen & ink, watercolor, drawing etc. Session 1 – June 13-15; Session 2 - June 20-22; Session 3 - June 27-29; Session 4 - July 11-13; Session 5 - July 18-20 Session 6 - July 25-27. $40 deposit required. “Just Painting” with Barb at Barb’s on Mulberry Ages 4 and up. Paint 2 canvases a day! $25 a day or $75 for 3 days Tues., June 6, Wed., June 7 and Thurs., June 8 (334) 269.2272 or (334) 546-2233 www.barbsonmulberry.com or www.facebook.com/barbsonmulberry.com

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts ad on page 77

1 Museum Drive, Montgomery Teen Camp: June 5-9, Ages 12 and up. Afternoons Youth Camp: June 19-23, July 10-14, July 24-28, Ages 6-13; Week-long. Half-day or All day These unique full-filled camps offer small group instruction (10 students to 1 teacher ratio; maximum of 20 students) in drawing, painting, ceramics, printmaking, and sculpture. Students also view and learn about famous works of art in a Museum setting. Each week a variety of art media and techniques are explored, such as drawing with pastels, charcoal, pen and ink, colored pencils, and markers; painting with watercolors, tempera, and acrylics; sculpting with clay and mixed media; and creating relief prints. Different themes, art projects, and techniques are offered each week, with a special student exhibition and reception for family members at the end of camp each Friday. Camp fee includes snacks and all art materials. The camps are also designed for working parents, as extended hours are offered. Camps are limited to 20 students and fill up quickly, so sign up today! Full day students MUST bring their own lunch. (334) 240.4333

www.mmfa.org

Paint and Clay Studio ad on page 75

New Location: 4319 Atlanta Hwy. Paint your own pottery or canvas. Full and half day Summer camps available. Plan your next party with us! Like us on Facebook.

Abrakadoodle Summer Art Camps

Abrakadoodle camps are designed for kids ages 3-5 and 6-12, and we bring everything schools and community sites need to offer an exceptional art experience: well-trained teachers, awesome art camp themes with the perfect art lessons, tools and materials to engage kids in fun art adventures. Abrakadoodle camp programs immerse kids in design, exploration, creativity, planning and problem solving in an environment that is packed with art activities that kids love! Abrakadoodle campers can get messy while experimenting with art. As kids unleash their creative potential, they will: Build skills as they discover art techniques, styles and artists, Use a wide variety of art materials to make original creations, Experiment and problem-solve with inspiring activities, Enjoy fun social interaction via collaborative art adventures, Play joyfilled games, develop CREATIVITY. (334) 265.5758 sparker@abrakadoodle.com www.abrakadoodle.com/AL01

ASU Middle School Music Camp

Tullibody Music Building Camp dates are June 26-29, Mon.-Thurs. from 9 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. Rising 7-9th grade band and choral students with a minimum of one-year experience. Bring your own instruments. Students will receive instruction in performance skills and music knowledge, play fun music in large and small ensembles, and have classes in technique, music history, theory and aural skills. Students will also play in a piano lab and create notebook of what they learn. Friends and Family Showcase Concert on last day. (334) 229.4341

vwww.alasu.edu/msmc

Jasmine Hill Art Studio

110 Company Street, Wetumpka Art classes offered to ages 4 to 104. We explore all mediums: oil, acrylics, water color, sketching. $50 per month, includes supplies except canvases. Check us out on Facebook for more details about camps and classes. Please visit us on Facebook under Jasmine Hill Art Gallery. (334) 300-6793

McBrien Design Art Studio

515 Seasons Court, Prattville SUPER FUN ART CAMPS! Morning and afternoon sessions plus 3, and 5 day camps to choose from. Each session features different themes, art activities, and techniques, so be sure to sign up for more than one session. (Ages 6-17) Detailed Camp Information to be posted in May on the website. (334) 361-2238 or (334) 546-2771 mcbriendesign@ charter.net www.mcbriendesign.com

Montgomery Music Project Summer Camp

2416 West Cloverdale Park Montgomery Music Project (MMP) offers an enriching day camp full of engaging music activities and classes for children of a variety of ages and abilities. Daily orchestra lessons are supplemented with group drumming, musicianship class, singing and more. The 2017 MMP Summer Camp will be announced. Registration forms can be found at www. montgomerymusicproject.org.

(334) 819.4450

(334) 377-2018 noemi@montgomerymusicproject.org www.montgomerymusicproject.org

Trinity Art Camp

P’zazz Art Studio

ad on page 45

1700 E. Trinity Blvd., Montgomery June 20-22 and July 18-20 Classes are limited to 10 students per class.

blee@trinitywildcats.com www.trinitywildcats.com

138 W. Main St., Downtown Prattville Weekly Classes Please call for days and times. (334) 354.1975 kaseyau@gmail.com www.pzazzart.com

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Baseball

Bowling

Huntingdon College Baseball Camp

BAMA Lanes

(334) 833.4501 http://www.huntingdonhawks.com/ information/Camps

(334) 272.5423

1500 East Fairview Avenue, Montgomery Showcase Skills Camp: May 20 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Fundamentals Camp: May 30-June 1; Ages 5-15; 8 a.m. until 12 p.m.

Basketball Huntingdon Basketball Camp ad on page 65

1500 East Fairview Avenue, Montgomery Boys and Girls ages 6-17 Session 1: June 12-15, Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Session 2: July 31-Aug. 3, Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Cost: $185; Lunch provided (334) 833-4399 or (334) 652.4465 www.huntingdonbasketballcamp.com

Biking Fountain City BMX Track

802 County Road 4, Prattville, AL Friday Practices are $3. Free 1 day trial. Fun for any age. Race on most Sundays. For more information please visit us on Facebook. (334) 300.4328 info@fountaincitybmx.com www.fountaincitybmx.com

3020 Atlanta Highway EAT ‘n’ BOWL, while lane availability lasts, until 8 p.m. daily. (Includes 3 games, shoe rental, and meal). Prices vary upon day and time

BAMA Lanes in Prattville

1734 East Main Street, Prattville EAT ‘n’ BOWL, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday (includes 2 games, shoe rental, and meal) Prices and times vary. (334) 358.8600

Brunswick Zone

1661 Eastern Blvd. Special summer deals. Please call for more information and weekend pricing. 819.7171

www.bowlbrunswick.com

Dance/Gymnastics/ Cheer ACE of the River Region A Cheerleading Company

ad on page 61

1965 Eastern Blvd., Montgomery Summer Punch Cards On Sale Now

10 Tumbling Classes for $100 ($150 value) June 5- August 5 (Gym Closed June 25 – July 9) Also, Stunt classes, All level tumbling classes, All Star teams, Jump and flexibility classes, individual lessons, birthday parties, school cheer training. Call Josh or Conni Olson. (334) 782.3294 or (334) 782.2953 riverregionace@gmail.com www.acetribe.com/ACE/RiverRegion

Alabama Dance Theatre ad on page 33

1018 Madison Avenue (The Armory Learning Arts Center) The Alabama Dance Theatre will be offering summer classes in classes in classical ballet (pre-ballet

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D to the professional level), pointe and variations, pas de deux, composition, modern, jazz, hip-hop, contemporary, tap and “Back to Dance” Session I is: May 30-June 15 and Session II is June 26-July 13. There will also be a “Tutus and Tiaras” camp for ages 3-8 on June 19-23. The Alabama Dance Theatre Summer Intensive Seminar for intermediate and advanced dancers will be held July 17-31. The Summer Dance Seminar culminates with 2 Free performances of “Stars On the Riverfront” July 30 and July 31 at 7:30 p.m. at the Riverwalk Amphitheater. (334) 241.2590

www.alabamadancetheatre.com

Armory Athletics ad on page 52

1018 Madison Avenue The Armory Gymnastics Center is the largest gymnastics center in the area. We offer boys and girls recreational and competitive gymnastics and cheer, adult gymnastics/fit camp and tumbling. Please call for our summer scheduling or visit us on Facebook at Armory Athletics. www.armoryathletics.com

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection ad on page 71

3370 Harrison Rd. Summer Fun Day-camp dates: June 5-9 and June 19-23 and July 10-14. Time: 8 a.m. until 5 p.m.(412 years). $175, Pre-register before May 15: $150. Including all styles of dance, modeling & manners, fashion shows, talent show, arts & crafts, water play and mini manicures! Summer dance classes for all ages beginning June 5 in Ballet, Contemporary, Jazz, Tap, Hip Hop, Baton and Tumbling (334) 277.1098 www.tonyaspeedsdanceconnection.com

United Gymstars & Cheer Camp ad on page 75

6100 Brewbaker Blvd., Montgomery 10 week Summer Camp, Weekly themed activities, gymnastics, trampoline, rope climbing, crafts and

more. Beginning first week in June through beginning of August; Time: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Ages: 4 and up. Half Day offered for 3 and 4 year olds. Call for rates. (334) 284.2244

www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

Alabama River Region Ballet

offered. Registration began in April. You can register at the Gymnastics location on Monday evenings 6:30-8 p.m. and Thursdays 5-6 p.m. Classes begin the first week of June (334) 285.5515 or (334) 221.4622 www.lisasdancedimensions.com

7981 Vaughn Road Dates to be announced Children’s Fairytale Ballet Camp: (ages 3-7) Includes ballet class and ballet oriented movies and crafts relating to classical storybook ballets. Light snack included. Summer Camp: for ages 8-11. Summer Dance Intensive for ages 12-18. Classes offered in Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Jazz, & Modern

Mann Dance Studio

C.J.’S Dance Factory (home of the Prattville Ballet)

(334) 365.5154

(334) 356-5460 riverregionballet@gmail.com www.riverregionballet.com

145 South Court Street, Prattville Camp Dates: June to July Princess Ballerina Camp, Power Tumble Gymnastics Camp, Ballet Technique/Pointe Camp, P’ville Performing and Visual Arts Camp, Jr. Jazz Dance Camp. (334) 467.8603

www.cjsdancefactory.com

Centre’ for Performing Arts

975 South Memorial Drive, Prattville Dance Classes: July 5-31, Creative Movement, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary and Gymnastics. Ages 2 and up. Competition team auditions in the month of July. Diva Dance Camp (ages 5-12); June 19-23 from 1 p.m. until 5 p.m (334) 491.1192

www.centreforperformingarts.com

Dance Generation

65 Ashburton Dr Tap, ballet, jazz, baton, lyrical, hip hop and gymnastics. Ages 3-adult, Beginner, intermediate and advanced levels. Cost depending on class. (334)

395.4300

www.dancegenerationstudio.com

Lisa’s Dance Dimensions

2981 Main St., Millbrook Please visit our website for our Summer classes being

422 Pratt St., Prattville Classes begin June 6 and will run through July. We will be offering: Tuesday’s from 5:00 - 6:00 p.m. pre-school ages 2 1/2 year olds to 5 year olds. These classes will be divided according to age. This is a combination class, which includes ballet, tap and gymnastics. Tuesdays from 4:00-5:00, 1st graders and up. These classes will be divided according to age. This also is a combination class including; Ballet, gymnastics and jazz. www.manndancestudio.net

Montgomery Ballet

2101 Eastern Blvd. Suite 223 June 5-23, 8:30 until 11:30 Our camp programs are available in one, two, or three-week packages. The more weeks you register for the more you save! Montgomery Ballet Fairytale Camp (Ages 4-6) Montgomery Ballet Dance Into Summer (Ages 7+) Performance Opportunity: At the end of our camp program, each group of campers will perform the choreography they learned during summer camp! You must attend the last two weeks of camp to participate in the showcase. (334) 409.0522

www.montgomeryballet.org

Next Dimensions Gymnastics

101 Penser Blvd., Millbrook Please visit our website for our Summer classes being offered. Registration began in April. You can register at the Gymnastics location on Monday evenings 6:30-8 p.m. and Thursdays 5-6 p.m. Classes begin the first week of June. (334) 285.5515 or (334) 221.4622 www.lisasdancedimensions.com

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Day Camps Alabama Christian Academy Grow Camps ad on page 11

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Alabama State University

1030 W. University Drive, Montgomery SKYCAP/IMSET 2017 Session 1: June 5-23; Session 2: July 10-28 Grades 1-12; Half and full-day programs. Academics, computers, arts and fitness. A variety of courses to expand and peak your child’s imagination, sharpen academic skills and introduce them to physical fitness activities.

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ad on page 34

(334) 229.4686 or (334) 229.4317

Sylvan “Find Your Edge” National STEM Bash ad on page 31

2640 Zelda Road, Montgomery Experience our coolest, new STEM programs at our upcoming STEM Bash! Robotics*Coding*Math Montgomery Country Club: May 30 – June 1 (1:00 – 5:00) Robotics Camp June 13 – 15 (1:00 – 5:00) STEM Challenge Camp Wynlakes: June 19 – 22 (1:00 – 4:00) Robotics Camp July 24 – 27 (1:00 – 4:00) STEM Challenge Camp (334) 262.0043 www.sylvanlearning.com/montgomery

Sylvan STEM Camps ad on page 31

2640 Zelda Road, Montgomery STEM Challenge Camp June 19-22 or July 17-20 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Kids are given a real world problem to solve in teams. Each team will design, test and resign their solutions like real engineers using K’NEX. At the end of the week, teams will present the finished product to a panel of STEM experts for a chance to win COOL PRIZES! Grades 3-8. In partnership with K’NEX. $195 with snack provided. Python Coding Camp $149 Snack Provided, June 5-8 (9:00-12:00) Kids will learn Python syntax and programing logic as they solve fun puzzles. They’ll build their own projects, stories and an awesome portfolio of Python games, including Connect 4, Snake and Tetris. Grades 6-8 Maker Machine Lab Camp $149 Snack Provided, July 10-13 (9:00-12:00) Robotics camp using Lego bricks, motors, sensors and code to build and animate projects. In this creative, hands-on camp , the kids will take on 3 maker “missions” to explore science concepts like speed, motion, chemistry, gravity and sound. Grades 1-3. (334) 262.0043 www.sylvanlearning.com/montgomery

YMCA Prattville ad on page 49

600 E. Main Street (Smith Branch) and 972 McQueen Smith Road (Bradford Branch) Main Day Camp, girls and boys ages 5-12. An

outdoor program. Begins May 30– in August. Mon. - Fri. Before and after care available at no extra charge. Must be picked up by 5:45. For members only. For more information please call Betty Estes, 358.1446. • Daniel Pratt Camp Daniel Pratt School. Dates and ages the same as above. For members and non-members. Begins May 30 –August school starts. Mon. - Fri. • Pine Level Summer Camp Pine Level School. Dates and ages the same as above. For members and non-members. Begins May 30 – August. Mon. - Fri. • Cheer Camp Grades 1-12, boys and girls; May 31-June 2; Times 1 p.m. until 4 p.m. or Gymnastics and Cheer camp from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m.; Please call for pricing. Call Bambi at 365-8852 for more information. Discount for multiple sign ups. • Gymnastics Camp May 31- June, Ages 6-18; Times 9 a.m. until noon

or both Gymnastic and Cheer from 9 a.m. until 4; Please call for pricing. Includes t-shirt and camp refreshments. Call Bambi at 365.8852. If you choose to do both a discount will be offered. • East Bradford Branch – 358-9622 Sport Camps, Mon-Thurs, 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. Girls basketball- June 19-22 Soccer Camp, TBA Golf Camp- June 12-14 Tennis Camp-June 26-29 Boys basketball, June 19-22 Fishing Camp-July 5-7 Wrestling Camp-June 5-8 Girls Volleyball, June 5-8 Please call for pricing. Pricing is based on how many camps signed up for. Discounts are given for multiple camps and for multiple children in family. 2-22 Camp is a program for rising seventh thru ninth graders. Members ONLY. Registration is the beginning of March. The camp will cover character development, life skills, job skills, service learn-

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ing and have activities such as board games, gym games, community service and field trips. Begins 1st day of school being out. Call Jeffery at 3589622 for more information. Smith Branch, (334) 365.8852 East Bradford Branch, (334) 358.9622

Alabama Wildlife Federation

3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook Expedition Lanark Outdoor Day Camp May 29th-August 4th Expedition Lanark is a full day summer camp that provides hands-on, outdoor educational activities that teach natural resource stewardship, develop leadership skills, build character and open your child’s mind to outdoor adventures and fun. From Tadpoles to Trail Blazers, Counselors in Training, High Adventure, Gross Out Camp and so much more, we have something for your child (ages 5-15) to explore this summer! Extended Care is available for an additional fee. (334) 285.455

www.alabamawildife.org

AUM Youth Summer Programs

75 Techna Center Drive, Montgomery Camps offered from June through July Ages: Gr. K-5 - 12th. Other: OutReach offers a variety of educational enrichment programs children of all ages including Summer Youth Camps, ACT Review classes, Math & Reading Programs, and an Accelerated Program (Brainiac Camp). These programs instill children with an excitement for learning, prepare them for the upcoming school year, and even equip them with necessary skills for the college entrance exam. (334) 244.3804

www.outreach.aum.edu/classes

Boys & Girls Clubs of the River Region

Chisholm, 2612 Lower Wetumpka, 265.2469 West End, 220 Crenshaw St, 263.3371 Wetumpka, 399 North Alabama Street, 478.4904 Focus on 5 core program areas: Education, Arts, Sports & Recreation, Health & Life Skills and Citizenship Leadership Development. Cost: $5 per child per year. Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. Please call for school term schedule. (334) 832.4288 www.Bgcmala.org

Camp Grandview — YMCA

4700 Camp Grandview Road, Millbrook Dates: May 30 - August 11 Length: Weekly basis; (Ages 5 to 15) Located on 190-wooded acres, YMCA Camp Grandview includes two beautiful lakes, a waterpark, horse barn, athletic fields, hiking trails, mud pits, disc golf, archery, riflery, Re Hall, and historic lodge. Transportation is available from Montgomery at no extra cost. (334) 290.9622

www.ymcamontgomery.org

Camp Invention

Bear Exploration Center, 2525 Churchill Drive, Montgomery Dates: 5/30 to 6/2 from 8:00 to 4:00; Cost: $230. A day at the Camp Invention program is packed with hands-on activities, brainstorming, experimentation, and unbelievable action! (334) 284.8014 www.invent.org

campinvention@invent.org

Camp Sunshine for Boys

July 10-14; Boys Age: 6-11. Other: Outreach program for less advantaged youth with a variety of outdoor activities. No cost but invitation only camp; may call for application. (334) 262.2697

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Camp Tukabatchee

Day and resident camps. Ages: By scout rank. Week 1: June 4-10, Week 2: June 11-17, Week 3: June 18-24; Other: Boy Scout Camp. Emphasizing outdoor skills and leadership development. Week long experience with swimming, hiking, canoeing and other outdoor skills. (800) 977.2688 www.camptuk.org or www.tukabatcheebsa.org

Gross Out Camp Takes Science Outdoors

Alabama Nature Center (Lanark), Millbrook July 24-28; Ages 6-9; Cost: $200 Yuck...if it’s gross we’ve got it! This award-winning science camp focuses on hands-on biology. Activities include: creek stomping expeditions for macro-invertebrates, meet-a-tree style scientific observation, and creativity such as making your own bird-poop paint (not from birds). Kids will meet live snakes in a reptile program. Learning has never been this much fun! Sponsored by Fresh Air Family. The camp combines science experiments, exploring, journaling, and nature-inspired arts and crafts to address a variety of learning styles.

piano with professional instruction in a first class dance studio and music laboratory. (334) 265.0566

YMCA East Branch

www.montgomeryzoo.com

Prattville Parks & Recreation Summer Youth Program

Weekly Field Trips, Games, Crafts and Swimming Begins May 30 until the Friday before school starts, 7 a.m. until 6 p.m.; Ages 5 going into K-6th grade. Registration begins April 1st at the Doster Center. Parent Orientation Date: May 23 Registration Fee – Non-refundable $75 registration per child; $75/ week. (334) 361.3640

YMCA Cleveland Branch

1201 Rosa L. Parks Avenue, Montgomery Dates: May 30 until August (Ages 3 to 12) The YMCA Cultural Arts Center at the Cleveland Avenue YMCA offers youth specialty camps featuring music and dance. Participants will have opportunities to learn modern dance, jazz, tap, and

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YMCA Goodtimes

(334) 272.3390

3407 Pelzer Ave, Montgomery Dates: May 30 until August (Ages 5 to 14) This is the premier summer facility with a teaching pool, indoor gym, inflatables, and a water

Montgomery Zoo Summer Camps

(334) 240.9400

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3407 Pelzer Ave, Montgomery Dates: May 30 until August (Ages 3 to 12) The YMCA Cultural Arts Center at the Cleveland Avenue YMCA offers youth specialty camps featuring music and dance. Participants will have opportunities to learn modern dance, jazz, tap, and piano with professional instruction in a first class dance studio and music laboratory.

(205) 540-6642 www.alabamawildlife.org or www.GrossOutCamp.org

325 E. Vandiver Blvd., Montgomery Dates: half days for 5-6 yr. old, 7/17-21, 7/24-28; half day for 7-8 yr. olds, 6/26-30, full day 7-8 yr. old 7/10-14; half day for 9-10 yr. old, 6/12-16 full day for 9-10 yr. old, 6/19-23; full day for 11-12 yr. old, 6/5-9. Ages 5 - 12 (each week is for specific ages). Cost: Non- members; $180 for full day, $140 half day. Members; $162 for full day and $126 for half day. Full day includes lunch and two snacks; one snack for half-day. See daily live animal presentations; get up close and personal with some of the Educational animals at the Montgomery Zoo; enjoy scavenger hunts; craft times; classroom time; playtime, splash time and games at our playground; rides on our horse trail rides, pedal boats, and sky lift; participate in animal encounters with the giraffes, river otters, deer and parakeets; see behind the scene tours and visits with our zookeepers and other staff members.

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park. In addition, the center features a cooperative reading program and a premier computer lab to help combat summer learning loss. Academic enrichment classes taught by a certified teacher are programmed into your child’s day along with recreational swim at the water park. (334) 279-8833

YMCA Junior High Teen Leadership

Call 279.8666; Dates: May 30 until August A new program designed to teach teens leadership skills. Teens will be involved in enrichment activities for the younger campers, service projects, fun excursions, a camp day with other YMCA Leadership Leagues and a trip to North Carolina to participate in the Junior High Christian Values Conference. (334) 279.8666

YMCA Kershaw

2225 West Fairveiw Ave., Montgomery Summer Camp Dates: May 30 until Aug.; Ages 5 – 15. Please call for cost and registration details. (334) 265.1433

YMCA Southeast Branch

3455 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery Summer Camp Dates: May 30-Aug.; Ages 5 – 15 The Southeast YMCA, a family facility, offers youth and adult fitness, aerobics, youth sports, before and after school childcare, summertime aquatic programs and much more. One of the greatest assets is its two gymnasiums, which provide open goals for working on jump shots or a great open space for fun activities on rainy days. (334) 262-6411

www.montgomeryparents.com

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YMCA Wetumpka

200 Red Eagle Road, Wetumpka Day camp, 6:30 a.m. - 6 p.m., Mon. - Fri. May 30 until beginning of school in August. (Ages 5 to 13) A vital part of the community for over 40 years. It offers the opportunity to get involved with youth sports, pre-school classes, after-school programs and more. (334) 567-8282

**Community Centers have various programs including arts & crafts, field trips and sports for children during the summer. Call your local Community Center for more information.

**Vacation Bible Schools are held throughout the area. See River Regionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Journey magazine for a comprehensive listing.

Day Trips Callaway Gardens

US Hwy 18, Pine Mountain, GA Summer hours- 9:00 am-6:00 pm daily. Callaway Gardens is a great location for family vacations in Georgia. Your family will love hiking in our gardens, swimming in Robin Lake, exploring the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, golf, spa and more. Summer Family Adventure is a four- to seven-night Summer vacation that connects your loved ones and offers countless options for fun in a beautiful natural environment. Callaway Gardens partners with the Florida State University Flying High Circus, whose members lead guests ages 3-17 in a variety of exciting day-camp activities. Adults have their own eclectic lineup of offerings, and late afternoons and evenings reunite families to enjoyÂ beach parties and competitions, bingo and trivia games, educational shows and outings, and much more. Summer Family Adventure runs for nine weeks with arrivals June 3-July 15, with options for four, five, six and seven nights. Sample activities available for children and adults include. (Activities vary based on age groups). Circus skills including acrobats, juggling and more, teen activities, tennis clinics, water skiing & tubing, camp crafts, nature and wildlife adventures, fishing, archery, beach fun, cookouts, and more! 1-800-Callaway

www.callawaygardens.com

Chewacla State Park

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124 Shell Toomer Pkwy. Auburn 696 scenic acres are a delightful pause from nearby interstate traffic. Facilities include a 26-acre lake, swimming area, playgrounds, hiking trails, a modern campground, picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters, and newly renovated cabins. (334) 887.5621

www.alapark.com/Chewacla/

Coosa River Adventures

415 Company Street, Wetumpka Available all days (weather permitting). Scheduling is required. Cost is $59 per two-person canoe, $49 per sit-on-top, two person kayak and $29 per siton-top, one-person kayak. Stand-up paddleboards rental is $39. Cost includes transportation to the launch site, paddles and life jackets. Shuttle rate for those owning their own equipment is $12 per kayak or canoe. Try out tote-n-float Program. Simply tote one of our boats and float your favorite waters. Canoes are $59 a day. add tax to prices listed. Call for appointment and scheduling. (334) 514.0279

www.coosariveradventures.com

DeSoto State Park

13883 County Road 89, Fort Payne, AL Nestled atop beautiful scenic Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama, this 3,502-acre park provides Mountain Chalets, Log & Rustic Cabins, Motel Rooms, Meeting Rooms, and also has both Improved & Primitive campgrounds. Also features a picnic area with playground, Olympic-size swim-

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ming pool, nature center with interpretive programs and live animals, & over 19 miles of hiking & mountain biking trails. (256) 845.0051

www.alapark.com/DeSotoResort

Georgia Aquarium

225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta, GA With more than eight million gallons of fresh and marine water and more aquatic life than found in any other aquarium, you are sure to see things you’ve never seen before! Please check our website for rates and specials. Annual, premium, combo, and group rates available (404) 581.4000

www.georgiaaquarium.org

Horseshoe Bend Military Park

ing. Park facilities include the largest state-operated campground in the United States with 626 sites. (256) 329.0845

Educational/Training Camp Success @ Success Unlimited ad on page 28

4500 Vaughn Road Arts...Academics...Fun! One week sessions for grades 1-6. June 12-16 and June 19-23; 8 am to 3 pm daily. Cost: $125 per session.

11288 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Daviston, AL Monday-Sunday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm. Tour the free museum and view the 22 minute film, “The Battle of Horseshoe Bend”. Then enjoy hiking the trails, a picnic, canoe the Tallapoosa River, and go fishing. Children (6 to 12 years old) with families are encouraged to participate in the Junior Ranger Program. Program booklets are available free at the Visitor Center. Children completing the required activities will be awarded a Certificate and Junior Ranger Badge.

(334) 213-0803

Imagine It! Children’s Museum

ad on page 27

(256) 234.7111

https://www.nps.gov/hobe/index.htm

275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta Atlanta’s only children’s museum, is the perfect place for children age eight and under and their families to learn and explore together in a safe and fun hands-on environment. (404) 659.KIDS [5437] www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org

McWane Science Center

www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org Rates range $8.00-$18.00; Children under 2 Free; Monday-Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am- 6:00 pm, Sunday 12:00-6:00 (205) 714.8300

www.mcwane.org

Stone Mountain

U.S. Highway 78 East, Exit 8, Stone Mountain, GA Toddlers 2 and under Free, Discounts and annual passes available; Summer at the Rock! June 10 – July 30; 10:30 am -8:00 pm. Lots of fun and activities including laser shows, hiking, musical entertainment, kids’ foam pit, Geyser Towers, Sky Hike, Camp Highland Outpost, Journey 2: The Mysterious Island, Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, The Great Barn, Great Locomotive Chase Adventure Golf, the Antebellum Plantation & Farmyard, Ride the Ducks, Lasershow, Adventure Tales, Waterworks and Where’s that Bear. 1- 800-401-2407

www.stonemountainpark.com

Swayback Bridge Trail

Jordan Dam Road in Elmore County Hiking/Biking approximate 8-mile trail with arrows and 1/4-mile markers so you can turn back when you reach your limit. Or the looping nature of the trail allows for crossover at several points to shorten your trip. Trail has views of creek and the Swayback Bridge, which is part of the old Hwy. 231. No charge, but do accept donations to help maintain the trail. No motorized vehicles or horses allowed. (334) 567.9090

http://www.trailoflegends.org/

Windcreek State Park

4325 Alabama Highway 128, Alexander City, AL This park spans 1,445 acres along the shores of scenic Lake Martin, that is a 41,000-acre clear-water reservoir perfect for fishing, swimming and boatMontgomery Parents I May 2017

www.alapark.com/WindCreek

www.suacademy.com

Churchill Academy ad on page 47

Tutoring available for summer. Grades K-12. Oneon-one tutoring. Call for rates. Times at parents’ convenience. (334) 270.4225

Macon East Academy Educational Camps 15396 Vaughn Road July Jammin Educational Camp for Grades K5-6th, July 17-21 (334) 277.6566

www.maconeast.net

Sylvan Learning Center ad on page 31

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

2017 ACT Prep Class

In its 22nd year, Lee Gonet will again teach her annual intensive prep class in June. Lee’s unique method of having students take multiple practice tests combined with test review has increased students’ scores dramatically on the ACT. Class is June 5 through the 9th, and the total cost is $150, which includes 30 hours of practice and instructions, book, three full practice tests, handouts, college application counseling, water, snacks, and pizza on the last day. For more information, email Lee Gonet at thegonets@elmore.rr.com. thegonets@elmore.rr.com

Enjoy Learning Center

2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd., Suite H One-on-one tutoring for ages 4 to adult. Math, science, reading, comprehension, phonics, spelling, writing, graduation exit exam, ACT and SAT. Certified, skilled teachers. Credit/debit cards accepted. (334) 625.9535

Huntington Learning Center

3251 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery Individual testing and tutoring in reading, study skills, writing, phonics, spelling, math and ACT/SAT prep, GED and exit exam. Students ages 5 - adult. (334) 277.9200

MasterRead

2941-A Zelda Rd. Grades K-12 individual tutoring. Sessions for read-

ing, comprehension, phonemic awareness, phonics, math, composition, spelling, study skills and ACT/SAT preparation and Exit Exam preparation. (334) 271.6295

Football Huntingdon College Youth Football Camp

1500 East Fairview Avenue, Montgomery Ages: 6 - 12 years old; Dates and Times: June 5-8 8 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Location: Newly renovated Charles Lee Field at Samford Stadium on the campus of Huntingdon College Surface: Synthetic Turf. (334) 833.4322

www.huntingdonhawks.com

Golf Robert Trent Jones/Capitol Hill Golf Trail

2600 Constitutional Avenue, Prattville Jr. Golf Camp, Date: 7 weeks of camps. June 6-9, June 13-16, June 20-23, June 27-30, July 11-14, July 18-21 and July 25-28. Boys and girls ages 6-14 welcome to attend. (334) 333.3300 or (334) 285.1114 www.rtjacademyofgolf.com

YMCA Jr. Masters Golf

Prattville YMCA Monthly sessions. For boys and Girls, ages 5-9. Saturday, 11:30-1 p.m. Location: Robert Trent Jones Capital Hill. (334) 358.9622

U.S. Kids Golf Montgomery

The U.S. Kids Golf Montgomery 2017 Summer Local Tour will tee off May 30, 2017 in Montgomery. Throughout the 2017 Summer Local Tour, U.S. Kids Golf Montgomery will head to some of the finest courses in the Montgomery area. Contact: Coach Quincy Leonard for details.

(334) 721.4536 quincyleonard@leogolfacademy.com www.uskidsgolf.com

History Old Alabama Town

301 Columbus Street, Montgomery Landmarks Foundation presents much more than a collection of 50 restored buildings in the heart of downtown Montgomery. Old Alabama Town is a tribute to our past, a magnificent setting where you step back in time. Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. (334) 240.4500

www.oldalabamatown.com

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Horseback Riding

Shade Tree Summer Horsemanship Day Camp

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Shade Tree Riding Stables, Millbrook Camp dates: June 5-9, 19-23, July 10-14 and 24-28. Ages 8-14. Our day camp will introduce campers to the challenges and responsibilities of riding and caring for horses. Our program provides extensive riding, hands on learning and lesson time

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(334) 290.3727 or (334) 546.3964

www.montgomeryparents.com

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MANE’s Unified Summer Camp

3699 Wallahatchie Road, East Montgomery Does your child love horses and want to ride this summer? Consider sending your child to MANE’s annual Unified Summer Camp. Though MANE’s focus is therapeutic riding, the unified summer camp allows riders with disabilities and able-bodied riders to learn about adaptive activities, acceptance and horses! The Unified Summer Camp program encourages the sport of riding and horsemanship in a safe setting for all children of the Tri-County Area. Now is the time to register. MANE’s Unified Summer Camp will be held the weeks of July 10-14, July 17-21, and July 24-28. Riders must be between the ages of 4-15. Camp for ages 16 and up offered July 31-August. Classes are conducted daily, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Each camper will participate in riding lessons, horsemanship skills lessons, snack/social time and horse related crafts. Each week concludes with a horse show so that all participants can show off their new skills to friends and family. Tuition is $250 per week per rider. Riders must be between the ages of 4-15. Each week is limited to 12 riders and applications are accepted on a first come, first served basis. MANE must receive all mandatory paperwork and payment for a camper’s slot to be reserved. Deadline for application is June 24. (334) 213.0909

www.maneweb.org

Libraries Autauga Prattville Public Library

254 Doster Street, Prattville Preregister at any Autauga Prattville Public Library Branch Today! The Summer Reading Program is to encourage reading throughout the summer months. Children going into grades preschool-6th grade are invited to participate. Registration begins May 1st. Please call for dates and times. (334) 365.3396 www.appl.info

applkids@bellsouth.net

Millbrook Library

3650 Grandview Road, Millbrook Summer Reading Program for Ages 4-12; The Summer Reading Programs is to encourage reading though out the summer months and enjoy different adventures and travel to exciting places. Please call for dates and times. (334) 285.6688

Montgomery Library

Check with local branches or check the library page in each month’s issue of Montgomery Parents for story time and video listings. Sign up for summer reading program.

Wetumpka Library

212 S. Main Street, Wetumpka Summer program offered for grades 1 – 6. Meeting at Wetumpka Civic Center. Registration starts in May. Summer program offered for grades 7-12. Please call for dates and times. (334) 567.1308

Martial Arts Docarmo’s Summer Karate Camp ad on page 67

3447 Malcolm Drive Two 1-week Karate Camp Sessions from 8:30 until 5:30 p.m. Dates to be announced. Monday-Friday Summer Karate Sport Camp students participate in Taekwondo, Padded Weaponry, and Sports Martial Arts training. Emphasis on martial arts training is what makes us different from other summer camps…our program offers discipline, structure as

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Sa well as FUN! Camp also includes lots of games, field trips that include swimming, roller skating, ice skating, movies, museums, parks and more! Not to mention arts in crafts, games, video games, reading time, board games, character development, and movies in house. Your child will have to pack a lunch every day as we do not prepare meals. Camp size is limited. (334) 220.5835

www.trytkdfree.com

Camp NextGen at NextGen Martial Arts, Prattville

698 Old Farm Lane, Prattville All Camps are open to the community! 9am-5pm Cost $199 beginning May 1st June 5-9: Hyper Camp - Kicks, Form and Tricking June 19-23: Hyper Camp - Kicks, Weapons and Tricking; July 17-21: Level Up Camp - Traditional Forms, Kicks, Self Defense, Sparring & Breaking. (334) 398.5968 todd@nextgenmartialarts.com www.nextgenmartialarts.com

Family Karate Center

8159 Vaughn Road. Located next door to Jalapenos, Peppertree Shopping Center. Kids Karate camp for summer program offered every day. Ages 2 years old and up. The camp is free to all students at the Family Karate Center. Non-members get to try the Camp for one day free (any day they choose this summer). Please call for Camp rates for non-members. Discounted birthday Party for camp register. The camp will teach Stranger Danger Child Abduction Prevention and Awareness Programs, The Ask Mom First Program (Child Molestation Prevention), “I am not a target” Bully Busters program and tips to teach children about lures child abductors use. Also included in the Kids Karate Camp will be beginning and advanced karate skills and drills, relay races, Samurai Pool Noodle Challenge, Karate Freeze Tag, Ninja Dodge Frisbee, Power Ranger Relay Race, and many other fun games that make children test their coordination and balancing skills. The Family Karate Center is the ONLY karate center that offers a fully equipped fitness center for parents to use for FREE while children are in class. We have a separate camp that teaches 2-4 year olds. We are the ONLY school that teaches 2-4 year olds. We are also the only karate center that specializes in teaching special needs students- autistic, Asperger’s Syndrome, Attention Deficit Disorder, ADHD, Down Syndrome etc…. Call today for registration and information. We are the only Montgomery school with a Master degree Instructor who specializes in special need children. There is no extra cost for the special needs children. A FREE gift for all new enrollments.

Johnson Martial Arts Academy

2801 Vaughn Plaza Rd. Suite J Please call for more information about our Summer program and Summer Day Camp.

(334) 284.2344 www.johnsonsmartialartsacademy.com

Montgomery Taekwondo Center

located at the Wetumpka YMCA and at Prattville East The Montgomery Taekwondo Center will teach Montgomery Parents I May 2017

classes all summer long on Tuesdays and Thursdays (and what a great activity for the whole family to enjoy together). Class begins at 6:30 until 7:30 at the Wetumpka branch and Prattville at 6-6:45 p.m. for Lil’ Dragons and 6:45-7:45 p.m. for ages 7 to adult. (334) 398.5968

Tiger Park Taekwondo

3125 Bell Road, Montgomery, (previously Chung’s) Classes for everyone Ages 3 to adult. 8 weeks of lessons plus uniform for $99.00. (334) 277.2627

Tiger-Rock Taekwondo Academy

2750 Bell Road Find Your Focus through traditional Taekwondo. Please call for more information regarding Summer Programs. (334) 244.1465

http://ita187.itaonline.com/

Recreation

Doster Center

424 South Northington Street, Prattville Summer Youth Camp, grades K - 6th, Monday - Friday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Swim lessons and swim team (enrollment limited). (334) 361.3640

Skating Eastdale Ice Rink/ K Lynn’s Skating School

Eastdale Mall Private lessons available. Call KLynn’s Skating School after 5 p.m. for lesson rates and schedules. (334) 272.7225

www.klynnice.com

Looney’s Skating Rink

3541 McGehee Rd. Wide variety of summer skate programs available during the day and evening. Something for everyone! Prices vary due to day and event. Please visit us on Facebook or call for more information. (334) 281.1032

YMCA Branches

Various activities including swimming. Call your local branch for more information.

Skate Zone 2000 LLC

88 Red Eagle Pkwy, Wetumpka Please call for Summer hours and rates. Please visit us on Facebook under Skate Zone 2000. (334) 567.4434

Soccer FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal ad on page 69

East YMCA, 3407 Pelzer Ave., 272.3390 Southeast YMCA, 3455 Carter Hill Rd.,262-6411 Kershaw YMCA, 2225 W. Fairview Ave., 265.1433 Bell Road YMCA, 2435 Bell Rd., 271-4343 Cleveland Avenue YMCA, 1201 Rosa Parks, 265.0566 Camp Grandview, 4700 Grandview Rd., Millbrook, 285.5381. Prattville YMCA, 600 Main Street, 365.8852 Wetumpka YMCA, Red Eagle Drive, 567.8282

YMCA Goodtimes Center

2325 Mill Ridge Drive, Montgomery The YMCA Goodtimes program is designed to give our participants an active way to enjoy the summer, with daily devotions, swim lessons, a water park pool, organized indoor and outdoor games and creative activities. Ages 5 yrs. - 11 yrs. Nonmembers $125 and Members $90 and The Teen Leadership League for ages 12 yrs. - 14 yrs. $125 non-members; $100 members; $50 non-refundable registration fee for non-member and members. Non-refundable registration fees as above. (334) 279.8666

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd (indoor/air conditioned) Coach Bruno (Former pro & College coach - Masters Phy. Ed.) Dates: May 30-June 3, 5 other camps offered with dates to be decided. ALL AGES - Cost: Half Days $125/week ($30/day) or Full Days $195/week ($45/day) Most Advanced Youth Development Methodology Worldwide! Come improve your technique and have fun the Brazilian way! Sign up now! Space is limited! (334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com www.fcmontgomery.com

YMCA Montgomery Soccer Complex

300 Brown Springs Road Summer Soccer Academy/Camps Mini-Kickers (Ages 4-5) June 12-16, 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Recreational (Ages 8-14) June 12-16, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Advanced Skills (Ages 8-17) July 19-23, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Skill Development Academy (Ages 7-17) July 10-14, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. Goal Keeping (Ages 8-17) July 17-20, 9 a.m. until 12 p.m. All Camps will be held at the YMCA Soccer Complex. (334) 396.9754 msanchez@ymcamontgomery.org www.ymcamontgomery.org

www.montgomeryparents.com

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Sports Clinics Saint James Sports Camps ad on page 1

6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery Saint James School will continue its summer tradition of providing a variety of sports and cheerleader camps for young people. Printed information will be available soon and will include cost, age groups and other pertinent information. Call Jerry Browning, athletic director, or the individual coaches at 277.8033, ext. 145. Keith Luckey, Baseball Camp; TBA Kellye Bowen, Volleyball Camp; TBA Amy Brown, Cheer Camp; TBA Craig Duncan, Wrestling; TBA Katie Barton, Girls Basketball; TBA Nigel Card , Boys Basketball; TBA Jimmy Perry, Football; TBA Thomas Render, Boys Soccer, TBA Charlie Brightwell, Girls Soccer, TBA (334) 277.8033, ext. 145

www.stjweb.org

AUM Soccer I.D. Camp

AUM Soccer Complex June 11; The camp is for boys, ages 15 and older are welcome and will cost $100 dollars per camper. (334) 244.3617

wulfkochsocceracademy.com

Faulkner Sports Camps

5345 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery Ages 6 – 17 Hal Wynn, 386.7285, softball camp; Dates TBA Patrick McCarthy, 386.7980, baseball; Dates: Youth Camp (ages 5-11), June 5-8; Youth Camp (ages 12-17), June 12-15 Scott Sanderson, 386.7159, basketball camp; Session I: Ages 5-18 (broken down into 2 age brackets), June 19-22; Session II: Ages 5-18 June 16-29 (broken down into 2 age brackets) Leslie Pierce, 386.7162, Girls soccer camp; TBA Tori Bartels, 386.7149, Volleyball Camp; Dates TBA Charlie Boren, 386.7671, Football Camp; Dates TBA Kyle Beard, 386.7162, Men’s soccer; Dates TBA Brook Fuller, 386.7208, Golf; Dates TBA Reed Sutton, 386.7509, Women’s Basketball; Session I: Lady Eagle Future Stars (ages 6-10), June 10; Session II: Lady Eagle Basic Training (ages 1018), June 12-15; Session III: Basketball University (ages 12-18), June 16-17 (334) 386.7148

www.faulkner.edu

Young Meadows Sports Camp

5780 Vaughn Road Sports Camp is our Vacation Bible School held June 5-9 from 9 a.m. until noon for children ages K5 through 6th grade. Older youth and adults serve as volunteers in various areas -- guides, leaders, teachers, snacks, and a many other areas leading up to Sports Camp and following up with those children and their families who attend. Activities include sports activities, Bible studies, snacks and fun! Sports Camp encourages participation from children in the community and the greater neighborhood area as well as members and their friends and relatives. For information or to volunteer, call at 312-1732 (334) 244.1385

Swim Adventure Sports ad on page 42

1546 East Ann St., Montgomery Have your child swimming before Summer. Private swim lessons offered for ages 2 years to adult YEAR round. Indoor and outdoor pool available. Heated indoor pool for year round lessons. Pool parties offered. (334) 269.DIVE (3483)

www.adventuresports2.co

YMCA Branches

Summer Swim Leagues; Registration: Now until August 1st. YMCA Goodtimes Center 279.8878, 2325 Mill Ridge Drive, Montgomery. East YMCA, 3407 Pelzer Ave., 272.3390 Southeast YMCA, 3455 Carter Hill Rd.,262.6411 Kershaw YMCA, 2225 W. Fairview Ave., 265.1433 Bell Road YMCA, 2435 Bell Rd., 271.4343 Cleveland Avenue YMCA, 1201 Rosa Parks., 265.0566 Prattville YMCA, 600 Main Street, 365.8852 Wetumpka YMCA, Red Eagle Dr., 567.8282.

Pratt Park, Prattville

460 Doster Road, Prattville Swimming lessons. Ages 6months to 36 months and 3 and up. Please call for rates and session dates. Maximum of 20 kids. No makeup days

due to weather unless the whole session is canceled. Check with your local branch for times and costs. (334) 361.3640

Tennis O’Connor Tennis Camps ad on page 71

500 Anderson Street, Montgomery Dates: June 5-8, 12-15, 19-22, 16-29 and July 10-13, 17-20, 14-27 (All classes Monday thru Thursday from 9 am to 11 am) Advance registration, $100 per week. (334) 240.4884 bbradshaw10s@gmail.com www.oconnortenniscenter.com

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Playing with Food

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Playing with food is part of every child’s early years as they learn to feed themselves. And as their food interests expand beyond the high chair and into the larger kitchen, kids often develop specific curiosity about the objects and items that contribute to their menu. They begin to look at ‘grown-up’ food, kitchen set-ups and cooking tools with a new, and hungry, eye. While they’re not ready to don the official chef’s hat yet, encouraging their interest with safe and engaging toys and resources is ideal for cultivating their nutritional education and expanding tastes. The following items are recommended for kids who still want to play with their food.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Morphy Richards Kitchen Set

Cutting Food Play Set (Melissa & Doug)

Putting a knife in the hands of a toddler is encouraged with Melissa & Doug’s Cutting Food Play Set. Complete with sectioned wooden fruit, vegetables and bread loaf, kids use this set’s sturdy, blunt-edged wooden knife to cut the food into its parts. The “crunch’ of the cut comes from the strong Velcro attachments between the food sections. The actual weight and feel of the wooden food mimics real produce much more closely than plastic counterparts. As children separate and reassemble the food, they are also benefiting from an early exposure to fractions. Crafted with non-toxic materials, the occasional nibbling and gnawing is not a worry. Giving young chefs their first opportunity to carve out their place in the kitchen, the Cutting Food Play Set offers a surprisingly real food prep experience for kids.

(Casdon Little)

While the coffee maker and toaster are often off-limits for little ones, the Morphy Richards Kitchen Set presents a safe and entertaining option for the younger cook. The coffee kettle is refillable with water (or other beverage) and features a level gauge indicator for added realism. The ‘toast’ pops up from the toaster with an energetic spring to launch every morning meal. Featuring colorful cutlery, dishes and pretend food, breakfast or brunch is easily laid out by the youngest kitchen helper. Perfect for pretend play this miniature collection is sized for little hands, but easily serves alongside adult crockery for a family-sized breakfast spread.

Honeysuckle Treat Street Food Truck

Sew Mini Treats (Klutz)

Making your own food takes on a whole new meaning with Sew Mini Treats, an adorable craft kit from Klutz. Following super-easy instructions in the 48-page guide, young seamsters are equipped with everything they need to assemble plush food with fun faces. With patterns, felt, filling, floss, and delightful design elements for cheeks and eyes all included, kids can turn out up to 18 different food-themed plushies in a short amount of time. Getting the hang of following patterns and simple stitching is also ideal for turning hand work into real confidence-building opportunities. Perfect for party-activities, decorating, gift-giving, or just carrying around as an “I made this!” badge, Sew Mini Treats are a delicious dip into food-themed crafting.

(Woodzeez)

With the booming interest is food truck cuisine nationwide, it’s the perfect time for little foodies to explore the business with their own pintsized version of the same. The Honeysuckle Treat Street Food Truck is a highly detailed toy replica of a restaurant on wheels. With a grill, cupboards, and an oven (with a working door) there’s plenty of food activity on the menu. The trapdoor for extra storage adds to the space economy that echoes real food trucks. There are eighty-nine pieces, so while kids are guaranteed to stay busy this set is best for kids who are past the mouthing age. Woodzeez brand figures are sold separately, but this food truck can easily host a variety of similarly sized characters. Battery-free and ready to feed friends, the Honeysuckle Treat Street Food Truck will get your child’s restaurant business rolling.

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

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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First Baptist Church Montgomery

June 19-23 Vacation Bible School

9:00 AM to Noon :: FREE! ages 4* through 6th grade

DISCOVERING THE GOD OF THE UNIVERSE As kids search the visible to discover the invisible, they will discover that the God who created everything there is wants a relationship with them! Kids will learn that God had a plan to restore the relationship He knew we would break from the beginning.

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For more information or to register visit

www.montgomeryfbc.org/vbs *Child must have turned 4 by August 31, 2016 to attend VBS.

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FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH montgomery

305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104

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“Happiness is not something ready made. It comes from your own actions.” - Dalai Lama We know that happiness is an emotion that can come and go. But how do we recapture that bubbly feeling amid the challenges and stresses of parenthood? Here are a few tips from moms for staying positive and feeling good.

Lean on community. Several moms polled for this article agreed that moms’ night outs with their friends help them feel more optimistic. And science proves it. Studies find that time spent bonding with friends boosts a woman’s level of oxytocin, a natural hormone that reduces stress. Check out mothers’ groups in your area if you are struggling to build a support network.

Commit to healthy living. Women who make time to care for their bodies, enjoy a stronger self-image

and feel more self-confident and energetic. Exercise, try to get adequate sleep, schedule regular massages and make healthy food choices to feel your best. “I know that when I am reasonably well-rested and happy, I am absolutely more patient, energetic and empathetic to everyone in my household,” says Erica Wilson, a mom of one.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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Take time for personal pursuits.

Whether you like surfing Pinterest, training for a 5K or simply taking a warm bubble bath, moments stolen throughout the week contribute to our overall sense of well-being. “I try to take at least a few minutes a day outside. I close me eyes, take deep breaths, and listen to the sounds,” says Melanie Werner, a mom of one.

Nourish yourself. During the rush of the week, most of us throw meals together just to get our hungry crew fed. If you enjoy cooking, find a day when you can slow down and relish the preparation. The process of chopping and measuring ingredients is meditative and soothing. Create a feast to delight all of the senses by serving your meal on a table laid out with your favorite dishes and cheerful flowers. Laugh. Family life can be funny. Kids say

hilarious things. Pay attention and write those gems down. Next time you need a lift, read them. Need more ideas? Look at funny family videos or photos, hang out with lighthearted friends, watch a silly movie or read a humorous book.

Follow a spiritual practice. Studies find that people who lean on an inner belief system are happier. You can feel a connection

to God through helping others, nature, yoga, music, art, personal meditation or journaling. Michelle Hovick, a mom of one, says the “Elevation” church app is one of her favorite spiritual gateways to a mood shift.

Practice gratitude. In a gratitude study at Eastern Washington University, researchers found a positive correlation between gratitude and happiness. “We have found that grateful individuals tend to be happy individuals and that grateful thinking improves mood,” the researchers report. Try writing down three things you are thankful for each day--small moments count too. Get a groove on. Whether she participates in a Jazzercise class or switches on upbeat dance tunes in her kitchen, Jessie Mallicoat, a mom of three, says, “If I’m in a bad mood, I put on some ‘dancy’ music and it usually helps.” In fact, studies find that dancing boosts the body’s feel-good endorphins. Dancing has even been found to reverse depression and increase self-confidence. Set boundaries. Moms who are happier make conscious decisions on a daily basis about who and what is allowed into their lives. Switching to this way of thinking is empowering. You don’t have to be harsh or hurtful to accomplish this goal. Politely decline invita-

tions that don’t fit with your priorities and limit interactions with negative individuals.

Access good childcare. Seek reliable childcare in order to feel secure pursuing personal interests, maintaining routine health check-ups and for date nights with your partner. A positive marriage contributes to the overall emotional health and happiness of your family. Having trouble finding a sitter? Check out SitterCity.com, Care.com and ask other parents for references. Avoid comparison. Parenting philosophies

that work well in one family, may not work well in another. Thanks to the influx of information at our fingertips, parents have no shortage of advice. Decide which strategies make sense for your family. And beware of spending too much time on social media if you’re starting to feel like you don’t measure up. “Being happy with yourself and how you parent is key to accepting other moms and how they parent, which creates a more supportive parenting community all around,” says Mandy Yokim, mom of two. mp

Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys. She finds happiness in historical romance novels, sunny days and chocolate chip cookies. Christa is the author of Confidently Connected: A Mom’s Guide to a Satisfying Social Life.

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A Page in a Book Books to Celebrate the One-of-a-Kind Kid As parents we celebrate the things that make our child distinctive. His eccentric passion for polka dot clothing, her encyclopedic knowledge of bats, their precocious habit of singing (loudly) in public, the fact that they speak two languages – these characteristics can make our child a delightful stand-out against a standard backdrop. While these aspects of our child endear them to us, this same distinctiveness can sometimes set them apart from their environment. The following titles celebrate the ways that positive interaction helps ‘outside of the norm’ join its special perspective to the larger social whole.

My Cousin Momo

by Zacariah Ohora (Penguin / Dial Books for Young Readers) When gray squirrel siblings look forward to hosting cousin Momo for a visit, they are filled with anticipation. As a flying squirrel, Momo’s special ability promises to be the highlight of their first meeting with their cousin. But their fabled cousin doesn’t perform as expected. Momo doesn’t hide-and-seek very well, he plays acorn-pong all wrong and he won’t show off his advertised specialty of flight. The brother and sister’s obvious disappointment leads cousin Momo to contemplate leaving, but a last-minute appreciation of his special talents may just help their new friendship take flight. Ohora’s bright illustration gives all the right nods to this evolution of appreciation for uncommon style.

The Girl Who Heard Colors

by Marie Harris, Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton (Penguin / Nancy Paulsen Books) Little Gillian experiences the world much like her counterparts, except when it comes to sounds. Gifted with synesthesia, Gillian perceives sound as color. Her bike’s bell rings silver, the rain whispers in light purple and her teacher’s voice is green as a frog. But when a lunch box falls to the floor and Gillian exclaims “Yellow!”, her distinctive ability is revealed to classmates who laugh (in inky black) at what they don’t understand. It’s the visit of a musician to the classroom who recognizes her special perception and helps Gil and her classmates cultivate a new appreciation for differences that make their world a brighter and more colorful place.

th • • • •

The Seeds of Friendship

by Michael Foreman (Candlewick Press) Relocated from the tropics to a cold and gray city, Adam misses all the things that were unique to his old home. As he tentatively ventures into snow for the first time, curious kids soon begin to help him craft a snow white menagerie of creatures from his homeland. Still lamenting the dreary landscape, Adam’s first day of school reveals a small garden, a bright spot of color. When the teacher begins to send seeds from the garden home with him, Adam and his mother begin sinking new roots into the city. With a green thumb and memories of home, Adam is joined by his friends as they begin transforming their gray surroundings into a colorful bridge between friends, neighbors and two different worlds. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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FamilyCalendar Monday, May 1

Pratt Park Splash Pad Opening Day 8 a.m.-8 p.m. for the season, ending on September 30.

Wednesday, May 3

Capital City Master Gardener Association Lunch and Learn Series Open to the Public The first Wednesday of each month, noon to 1 p.m. Sessions are held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, next to the Curb Market. Related handouts from the Alabama Cooperative Extension Service are provided each session at no cost. Participants are encouraged to bring their lunches to each event. Iced tea and water will be provided.

Thursday, May 4

Cloverdale Playhouse Theatre Presents The Crucible -- Through May 7 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sunday matinees. Inspired by the events of the era of McCarthyism, playwright Arthur Miller explores the mass political and cultural hysteria created by the U.S. Government’s attempts to suppress Communism and the radical leftist activity in America. Using the avenue of the Salem Witch Trials, Miller’s story focuses upon a young farmer, his wife and a young servant-girl who maliciously causes the wife’s arrest for witchcraft.  For more info, visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org or call (334) 262-1530.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents Sherlock Holmes -- Through May 13 A new adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes story by Geoffrey Sherman, this gripping tale of the world’s most famous detective features amazing twists and turns, accompanied by a healthy dose of comedy. Recommended for ages nine and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353. Date Night Movies on the Green -- Also June 2 A date night movie will be played on the big blow-up screen down in Montgomery’s Riverfront Park starting at about 7:30 p.m. Bring chairs or blankets for seating. Food vendors and a cash bar will be available for purchase. No outside alcohol allowed. Must be at least 18 years or older. Pets welcome. $5 tickets must be purchased online or at the gate. May’s movie is Silver Lining Playbook; June 2 is Dirty Dancing. For more

Family Fishing Class at Alabama Nature Center 2-4:30 p.m. Come join us at the ANC with Doug Darr to learn a wide range of fishing techniques! Guests are encouraged to bring their own rod and reel; however, we do have a limited number of extras. Be sure to register early as this class will fill up quickly and there is a maximum capacity. This is a great class to participate in as a family! Ages 8 & up. Admission $5. Visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (800) 822-9453. Flimp Festival 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Art-related activities and entertainment including a sidewalk chalk art competition and live theatrical and musical performances by Booker T. Washington Magnet High School. Other student performances every 45 minutes. Also interactive demonstrations with Museum Store artists, a scavenger hunt, and concessions.

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

Millbrook Community Theatre Presents The Odd Couple -- Through May 7 7:30 p.m. except for May 7 @ 2 p.m. Written by Neil Simon; directed by Susan Chain. Down-on-their luck Oscar the Slob and Felix the Neat Freak become reluctant roommates to hilarious and disastrous results. Tickets are $12 in advance, $14 at the door, and $8 for 12 and under. For tickets or more info, visit www. millbrooktheater.com or call (334) 782-7317. Wetumpka Depot Presents Last of the Red Hot Lovers -- Through May 13 7:30 p.m. performances Thursdays through Saturdays; 2 p.m. matinee May 7. Written by Neil Simon; directed by Tom Salter, this charming comedy follows longmarried Barney Cashman, a 47-year-old seafood restaurant owner, as he tries to have one passionate tryst before opportunity passes him by. His attempts to become a Casanova offer a hilarious look at a fine fellow who just just can’t seem to succeed in sinning. And his mother’s apartment is empty every Sunday afternoon… For tickets, call (334) 868-1440 or e-mail kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Two Gentlemen of Verona -- Through May 13 Proteus is in love with Julia until he gets an eyeful of his best friend’s girl, Silvia. When friends turn into rivals things quickly go comic as they clash with bandits, a bad-mannered dog, an angry father and a girl who won’t be dumped. This condensed version of Shakespeare’s first play is sure to be a big hit with all ages! Recommended for ages nine and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353.

Friday, May 5

MPAC Presents Tommy Emmanuel with Supporting Act Christie Lenee 8 p.m. Two-time Grammy nominee Tommy Emmanuel is one of Australia’s most respected musicians. The legendary guitarist has a professional career that spans five decades and continues to intersect with some of the finest musicians throughout the world. Tickets begin at $40. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

info, visit www.funinmontgomery.com/ or call (334) 625-2100. Friday Night Open Volleyball -- Also May 19 6-9 p.m. Bell Road YMCA. For students in 5th through 12th grades every first and third Friday. Students cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Free for members; $3 for non-members. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ ymcamontgomery.org. Friday Night Hoops -- Also May 19 9 p.m.-midnight. Bell Road YMCA. For students in 5th through 12th grades every first and third Friday. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must be playing basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for nonmembers. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org. Parents’ Night Out at United Gymstars & Cheer Also May 12 6:30-10:30 p.m. $20/first child; $15 per sibling. For ages 5-12. Pizza and drink provided. Fun games, trampolines, rope swing, tumble tracks, foam pits and more! Call (334) 284-2244 to reserve your spot! Walkins welcome. Visit www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com for more info.

Saturday, May 6

U.S. Kids Golf Montgomery Local Tour Championsip Lagoon Park Golf Course, Montgomery. U.S. Kids Golf Local Tours provide boys and girls, ages 5 to 14, the opportunity to advance their golf experience in age-appropriate competition. At the Local Tour level, kids can gain their first exposure to competitive golf, earn Priority Status for Championship Events, meet new friends and learn valuable life lessons. Register for this event through May 1. For more info or to register, contact Quincy Leonard at (334) 721-4536, quincyleonard@leogolfacademy.com or visit www. uskidsgolf.com.

Festivities will kick off with the ever-popular Do-Dah Pet Parade. Free for all MMFA members, active-duty military and their immediate families. Tickets can be purchased the day of the event and are $5 for adults and $3 for children. Visit www.mmfa.org or call (334) 240-4333. Central Alabama Library Workshop 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery. Cost is $5 for lunch. Registration will begin at 8 a.m. Light refreshments will be available when you arrive and at breaks. Deadline to register is May 4 at midnight. To register, contact Marty Woodall at (334) 569-3854, e-mail martybooks1@juno.com or write 8421 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka, 36092. Black Jacket Symphony Presents Fleetwood Mac’s Rumours 8 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. The Black Jacket Symphony offers a unique concert experience by recreating classic albums in a live performance setting with a first-class lighting and video production. Following the album and a brief intermission, the Black Jacket Symphony returns to the stage to perform a collection of greatest hits by the evening’s artist. Tickets begin at $25. Visit www.mpaconline. org or call (334) 481-5100. Pike Road Crawfish Boil 10 a.m.-7 p.m. at The Waters. Benefits the Pike Road Patriot Fund. Kids under 12 enter FREE! Adult tickets: $20 advance; $25 day of event. Bring your lawn chairs, coolers and friends for a wonderful afternoon with live music, face painting, hot dogs, hamburgers and over 1,000 pounds of crawfish. For more info, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/6th-annualcrawfish-boil-benefiting-the-pike-road-patriots-tickets-31899235472. Dream Court Unified Doubles Tennis Play Day 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at O’Connor Tennis Center. Each doubles team will consist of one athlete (special needs player) and a partner (traditional tennis player volunteer). Please call 414.1980 to register or visit www. dreamcourt.org.

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FamilyCalendar Mother Son Date Knight at the Kershaw YMCA 5-8 p.m. We invite mothers, grandmothers, aunts, stepmothers, etc. (sorry, no fathers and daughters) to bring their special knight to dance the evening away. Dinner, fun and photo to remember the occasion included. $35 per couple, $5 each additional child. Prizes go to our dance-off winners and Best Dressed Couple. For more info, visit https://ymcamontgomery.org/miscellaneous/ mother-son-date-knight/, e-mail ethomas@ymcamontgomery.org or call (334) 265-1433. Jubilee Run for Cancer Benefits the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. The run starts and finishes at Old Alabama Town, where participants experience the sites of the historical capital city in a family friendly setting. 7 a.m. Special Events Open (Wellness Expo, Kids’ Activities Area, Survivors’ Tent & Stage Area); 7:30 a.m. 8K Starts; 8:45 a.m. 2 Mile Run; and 9:30 a.m. 1-Mile Honor/Memory Walk Starts (wheelchairs, strollers, etc. welcome). For more info, call (334) 558-6587 or visit www.jubileerun.org. JDRF (Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation) Montgomery Walk 9 a.m. Montgomery Zoo. This fun, family–friendly event gives people with type 1 diabetes (T1D)—and their friends, family and co–workers—the opportunity to raise money for research. Free event with lots of family fun! For more info, call (205) 421-9967 or visit www2.jdrf.org/site/TR?team_ id=231310&fr_id=6911&pg=team Urban Scavenger Hunt 9-11 a.m. Begins at the Alley Station water tank entrance. Participants register in teams of two or four. Each team will be given 12 clues that will have you meandering through historic Downtown Montgomery on foot. Teams will have two hours to complete 9 of the 12 clues. At each location the teams may have to answer a question, perform a physical activity or participate in a food challenge. The first three teams that finish will win prizes! Proceeds will benefit the YMCA of Greater Montgomery’s Annual Campaign. Register online for $25 per person (includes T-Shirt) or day of (T-shirt not guaranteed). Call (334) 269-4362 or e-mail smccracken@ymcamontgomery. org for more information. FREE Basketball Camps -- Also May 13 8 a.m.-noon. The YMCA of Greater Montgomery and the Faulkner University Men’s Basketball coaches and players are partnering together to offer FREE basketball camps for children ages 5-18. At Southeast YMCA May 6 and Cleveland Avenue YMCA May 13. No registration required! Just show up! For more info, contact James at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontgomery.org. Cheerleading Camp at Bell Road YMCA 8 a.m.-1 p.m. The YMCA of Greater Montgomery and the Carver High School Cheerleaders are hosting a Cheer Camp at the Bell Road YMCA. Learn the fundamentals of cheerleading! For ages 5 to 12 (must be in kindergarten). Cost: $20 per child. T-shirt and snack will be provided! For more info, call (334) 271-4343. Sylvan Learning Center Offers ACT Cram Course 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at 2640 Zelda Road. Reading, grammar, writing, social studies, science, and math are taught by teachers who specialize in preparing students for the ACT. Students are also given test tips and insight on how the ACT is structured. Cost is $35. Call (334) 2620043 or e-mail cd@montgomerysylvan.com to enroll. Home Depot Kids’ Workshop 9 a.m.-noon. Ages 5-12. Free workshop teaches children do-it-yourself skills and tool safety. Today’s project is build a flower pot to hold spring flowers to keep or give to Mom. Once the project is built, your child can decorate it with paint and stickers. In addition to the newly constructed

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

project kit, each child receives a kid-sized orange apron and an achievement pin. For more info, visit http://workshops.homedepot.com/workshops/kids-workshops. Michael’s Kids Club -- Also May 13, 20 & 27 10 a.m.-noon. $2 per project. Supplies included. Ages 3 and up. Each session is 30 minutes. Parent or guardian must remain on premises. May 6 is Sprout Mother’s Day Frame; May 13 is Mother’s Day Cards; May 20 is Family Terrarium; and May 27 is Patriotic Cookies. For more info, visit www.michaels.com/. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Presents The Tempest -- Also May 14 Artistic Director Geoffrey Sherman’s final Shakespeare production at ASF, The Tempest is one of Shakespeare’s last plays, crafted with themes of magic, illusion and music. Prospero, the rightful Duke of Milan, has been banished to a remote island. Wanting to restore his daughter to her rightful place, he conjures up a storm, an enormous tempest, to lure his usurping brother Antonio and King Alonso of Naples to the island. Recommended for ages 12 and up. Visit www.asf.net or call 271-5353. AUM Offers Free Mandarin Classes -Every Saturday Auburn Montgomery’s Confucius Institute continues to offer free Mandarin classes to the community. To register, send the student’s name, age and contact information to ama@aum.edu. Civil Rights Walking Tours -- Every Saturday and Sunday 1:30 and 2:30 p.m. start times. Tours start from The Village Gallery. Come explore Montgomery’s history walking from different historical sties and engage in profound moments from slavery, the Civil War, and the Civil Rights Movement. This tour highlights pioneers and unsung heroes who contributed to a new era. Cost: Adults - $10; 12 & under - $5; 4 & under FREE. Book your tour by calling (334) 595-9243.

Sunday, May 7

First Sundays at One -- Also June 4 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the traveling exhibitions as well as the Museum’s Permanent Collection in these FREE docent-led tours the FIRST Sunday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Boston 7:30 p.m. The timeless songs of Boston appeal to young and old alike. You will be treated to wild Hammond organ work, soaring guitars, and exceptional vocal harmonies, as well as Boston’s unique visual stage presentation, from mindblowing lightning bolts and spectacular lights to an interstellar journey from the cockpit of the Boston spaceship, along with plenty of extraterrestrial sounds heard nowhere else on earth. Tickets begin at $80. Visit www.mpaconline. org or call (334) 481-5100. Pike Road’s Music in May -- Also May 14, 21 & 28 4-6 p.m. Looking for a fun family event this spring? Join us at The Waters in Pike Road for LIVE MUSIC at The Square each Sunday. Bring your family and friends out for a fun afternoon! May 7: Heath Cowen and Brandon Hayes; May 14: Rachel Wilson; May 21: Wes Darnell; and May 28: John Emil. For more info, call (334) 272-3200 or visit https://thewatersal.com/musicinmay/. Cloverdale-Idlewild Spring Concert Series -Also May 14 & 21 4 p.m. Cloverdale Bottom Park, intersection of Cloverdale

Road and Ponce de Leon Ave., Montgomery. Everyone is welcome to this free event, so bring friends and family. Leashed dogs are also welcome. Bring your chairs or blankets (or both), coolers, snacks. Plan to sit under the oak trees in the park setting and enjoy the music. May 7 Blackbird Pickers; May 14 - Fibergrass; and May 21 - Blue Yonder. More info on Facebook.

Tuesday, May 9

Youth Ice Hockey -- Through May 12; another session runs May 23-June 3 YMCA is partnering with the Eastdale Mall Ice Skating Rink to bring this exciting program for children ages 4 to 11. Children will learn the fundamentals of ice skating and begin to practice the skills needed to play ice hockey. This program will begin as instructional and evolve into a developmental league program. Registration is going on now! Practices will be Tuesday and Thursday evenings, 5:30-6:30 p.m. and Saturdays, 10-11 a.m. Other sessions available June 6-17 and June 20-July 1. Cost: $35/members and $75/non-members. For more info or to register, contact James at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ymcamontogmery.org.

Wednesday, May 10

Montgomery Biscuits Military Wednesday -Also May 31 7:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Join us as we salute all current and former military personnel every Wednesday! All military personnel who bring their Military ID will receive special food and drink specials. Looking for some unique food? Each Wednesday, our fantastic food staff are going to create a great menu of unique food you wouldn’t usually find at the ballpark! For tickets or more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255. Central Alabama Master Gardener (CAMGA) Lunch & Learn Program Noon-1 p.m. Held at the Elmore County Extension (ACES) facility on Queen Ann Road in Wetumpka, these free events for the public are held on the second Wednesday of each month. Attendees are invited to bring their lunch and learn. Beverages are provided by CAMGA. For more info, call 567-6301 or visit www.aces.edu/counties/Elmore/.

Thursday, May 11

Taste of the Gardens 2017 5-8 p.m. Southern Homes & Gardens on Vaughn Road, Montgomery. Proceeds benefit the American Red Cross. The event includes a silent auction featuring works from local artists; tasting from the River Region’s finest restaurants & caterers; wine; and live music. Also, SH&G will offer 20% off some items in the store (see store sales staff for discount details and applicability). Event tickets are $25, and may be purchased at SH&G, Caffco Outlet or at the American Red Cross, Central Alabama. Tickets also available at the door the day of the event. For more info, call (334) 260-4040 or e-mail kelly. hodges@redcross.org. Capri Theatre Presents Mrs. Doubtfire 7:30 p.m. Daniel and Miranda are getting a divorce, with the judge awarding full custody of their children to Miranda. The judge agrees to joint custody if Daniel can find a job and a home within three months. Daniel, who loves his kids too much to only see them one day a week for three months, realizes he might have a way to make everyone happy. And thus, Mrs. Doubtfire is born. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858. Annual Greek Food Festival -- Also May 12 11 a.m.-8 p.m., on the grounds of the Greek Orthodox Church at the corner of Mt. Meigs and Capital Parkway. Come eat the traditional dishes of Greece, browse the gift shop for imported items and learn a little about our faith, our families and our fun-loving spirit! Menu prices vary. For more info, call (334) 263-1366 or find us on Facebook.

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Parents’ Night Out at Grandview YMCA 6-10 p.m. Take the night to go to a movie, relax at home, go grocery shopping or have a date night. For school age children, ages 5 and up. Dinner for your child, games and fun included! For more info, contact Bill at (334) 290-3622 or bmyers@ymcamontgomery.org. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre Presents Celtic Woman 7:30 p.m. Multi-platinum international music sensation presents Voices of Angels, a captivating new show for 2017. Live concert experience features all new stage designs, stunning wardrobes, superb choreography and magnificent arrangements of timeless Irish traditional and contemporary standards. Tickets begin at $47. Visit www.mpaconline.org or call (334) 481-5100. Family Faith Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game 7:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Bring out your church group and enjoy a night of community, fellowship, and worship for a pre-game concert presented by Faith Radio and a post-game MAX Fireworks Show. For tickets or more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255. River Jam Music Festival -- Also May 13 Presented by Wind Creek Montgomery and the Alabama Roots Music Society. Begins Friday at 6 p.m. at the Union Station Train Shed with The “69” Band, Wyatt Edmundson and The John Bull Band. Continues Saturday at 4:30 p.m. at the Riverfront Amphitheater with Kirk J, Leah Seawright with March Hearnson, Mingo Fishtrap and Anders Osborne. FREE ADMISSION both nights!! For more info, call (334) 625-2100 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com/. Elmore County Homeschool Organization Meets Also May 26 Elmore County Homeschool Organization is a non-profit support group for homeschooling families. We provide a positive socialization environment for homeschooled children & support and encourage their parents in the homeschooling process. We typically meet the second and fourth Friday of every month year-round from 10 a.m. to noon at Harvest Fields Community Church, 4280 Deatsville Hwy, Deatsville. Membership is free and is open to all homeschoolers in the tri-county area. For details, visit http://www.onlineecho.com. Prattauga Art Guild Presents the 2017 Youth Art Show -- Through June 3 Prattville Creative Arts Center, 342 Chestnut Street. Youth in Autauga County in grades K-12 are invited to submit artwork for the exhibit. (Registration May 5-6) Awards reception on Saturday, June 3, from 1 to 3 p.m. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit artguild. prattvilleal.gov.

Saturday, May 13

Dads and Daughters Saturday (D.A.D.S) Calling ALL Fathers and Daughters for storytimes, fun and laughs, 11 a.m.-noon every 2nd Saturday at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library. There will be singing, dancing and arts & crafts. So come visit us and have an enjoyable time! For more info, visit www. facebook.com/events/1374454692792666/?source=1. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and

gain a greater understanding of the process. Cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 612-1086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com. 7th Annual Agape Run for a Mom 5K & Fun Run 7:30 a.m. start time for 5K; 8:30 a.m. start for 1-Mile Fun Run. Race begins at Vaughn Park Church and continues through the Vaughn Meadows community. Registration for the 5K ranges from $5 to $30. All proceeds directly benefit Agape of Central Alabama and its mission to support women, children and families through foster care, adoption and crisis pregnancy counseling. For more info about the event, registration, and sponsorships, visit www.runforamom.org or call (334) 272-9466. Old Alabama Town 20th Annual Herb Day 8 a.m.-3 p.m., sponsored by Old Alabama Town Herb Society and held in the “‘Living Block” at Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus Street, Montgomery. Free, funfilled, public educational event for the entire family, offering lectures and demonstrations featuring experts on identifying, growing and using herbs, including a cooking demonstration. There will be live music performances, activities for children, and the opportunity to find that perfect Mother’s Day gift in the openair market. For more info, visit www.facebook.com/ OldAlabamaTownHerbSociety or call (334) 240-4500.

Sunday, May 14

Mother’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Free admission for all moms. Call (334) 240-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com.

Tuesday, May 16

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

Thursday, May 18

Capri Theatre Presents Bonnie and Clyde 7:30 p.m. It’s the Great Depression, and there are bills to pay. Clyde Barrow decides to make his money the more exciting way - through crime. When he tries to steal a car, the owner’s daughter, Bonnie decides his life is more exciting than hers, and they team up to go on a crime spree together. For more info, visit www.capritheatre.org or call (334) 262-4858. Spring Open House at Montgomery Children’s Center 4-6 p.m. 2853 Forbes Drive, Montgomery. Please join us for fun, food and giveaways. Come take a tour and see what we are about! For more info, visit www.montgomerychildrenscare.com or call (334) 531-8517. Food For Thought The Alabama Dept. of Archives & History, 624 Washington Ave. Noon-1 p.m. Bring lunch and and join us every third Thursday for these FREE lectures sponsored by Friends of the Alabama Archives. Drinks are complimentary. Today’s topic is “Alabama Fever in the Wake of the Treaty of Fort Jackson,” presented by Tom Kanon. Call 353-4726 or visit www.archives.alabama.gov. Montgomery Biscuits “Geek”end -- Through May 20 7:05 p.m. Thurs./Fri. and 6:35 p.m. Sat. Riverwalk Stadium. Its time to get your Geek on! Join us for our first themed weekend of the season as we celebrate retro gaming, social media, and superheroes all weekend long! For tickets or more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Friday, May 19

Riverbend Brewfest 6 p.m. Union Station Train Shed, 300 Water Street. Live music, local food vendors and a large selection of local, regional and nationally renowned craft, seasonal, specialty and micro-brewed beers. Lawn chairs are welcome. Tickets are $25/person & include a commemorative tasting glass. Tickets are limited. For more info, call (334) 625-2100. Friday on the Green 6:30 p.m. Russell Crossroads at Lake Martin. Great outdoor event during the spring and summer months. Bring your family and friends – even your pup on a leash for a great time with lawn games and music tonight by Alex City’s Jonathan Bloom. It’s free! So, pack your cooler and picnic basket, or stop by nearby Catherine’s Market. For more info, call (256) 496-4232 or visit www. russellcrossroads.com/.

Saturday, May 20

Mayor’s Bike Ride and Touch A Truck Event 9:45 a.m.–2 p.m. As part of the National Kids to Parks Day, Prattville Mayor Bill Gillespie, Jr. will hold his Annual Bike Ride. Riders 8 and older will take off from Upper Kingston Park and riders 7 and younger will begin at the Chamber of Commerce. All riders will end at Pratt Park by Stanley Jensen Stadium to enjoy Touch A Truck beginning at 10 a.m. Ths event will include firetrucks, police vehicles, backhoes, dump trucks, tractor trailer rigs, race cars and more for the children to explore and learn about. These events are FREE and open to the public. Bike riders must wear helmets. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www.prattvilleal.gov. Prattville/Autauga Farmers Market Grand Opening -- Saturdays through September 16 7 a.m.-noon. At the grove on Doster Road across from Gillespie Senior Center and Pratt Park. Featuring fruits and vegetables from local growers, fresh baked goods, honey, handmade soaps, music and a chef creating something tasty from products from the local growers. For more info, call (334) 595-0854 or visit www. prattvilleal.gov. Fort Toulouse/Fort Jackson Living History 9 a.m.–4 p.m. Fort Toulouse-Jackson Park, 2521 W Fort Toulouse Rd, Wetumpka. Admission Charged: $2/adult and $1/child. For more info, call (334) 567-3002. Third Saturday 1-2 p.m. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Learn more about the works of art on view at the Museum in these FREE docent-led tours offered the third Saturday of each month. For more info, call (334) 240-4333 or visit mmfa.org/. Antique & Classic Car & Truck Show 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Union Station Train Shed, 300 Water Street. Fun, food, & activities for the whole family! Door prizes include a 50’ TV 50/50 drawing! Awarding top 25 cars & “Best of Show.” Entry fee: $20. Proceeds benefit the Adullam House. FREE for spectators. For more info, call (334) 300-1333 or (334) 354-6021 or visit www.funinmontgomery.com

Sunday, May 21

Family Art Affair and Jazz Jams 2-4 p.m. Bring the whole family to this FREE Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts program and listen to

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FamilyCalendar the best jazz artists from the River Region perform or bring an instrument of your own and join in with the band! Seating is limited, so arrive early for this great afternoon of live music. Drop in the studios between 2 and 4 p.m. and create art projects with your children designed around exhibitions in the Museum’s Temporary Galleries. Thanks to the Alabama Roots Society for making Jazz Jams possible. No reservations necessary. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333.

Friday, May 26

Montgomery Biscuits Autism and Disability Friendly Night/Kids Run the Bases Day 2:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. This game will feature much less visual and audio effects that make professional baseball games uncomfortable for some of our biggest fans. Join us today to support the Easter Seals of Alabama. Kids ages 14 and under are invited to run the bases presented by Coca-Cola! Kids can also play catch on the field before the game and create some arts and crafts. For tickets or more info, visit www.biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Montgomery Symphony Jubilee Pops Concert 7 p.m. Outdoor concert takes place at the Alabama Archives and History Building Lawn in downtown Montgomery. This is a FREE family friendly event sponsored by The J.K. Lowder Family Foundation. For more info, visit www.montgomerysymphony.org/.

2017 Splash Bash at Participating YMCAs 2-4 p.m. Make plans to attend one of the following Splash Bash celebrations, the Y’s annual member appreciation/kick-off to summer party. Enjoy a nojoining fee for one day only! Free for all members and open to the community! Join us for summer fun, games and Y giveaways! We will also be collecting new bathing suits with tags at ALL of our centers for children ages 3 to 12 for both boys and girls. These bathing suits will be donated to the children who are participating in our Safety Around Water Program that helps make sure children learn essential water safety skills. Those who donate bathing suit(s) will receive a no-joining fee for ONE day only for all of our YMCAs. In addition, we will have a NO REGISTRATION fee for all of our summer camps and summer childcare and people on hand all day to help you get set up with summer activities for children. Participating centers include Bell Road, East Family and Kershaw in Montgomery, Grandview in Millbrook and Wetumpka YMCA.

Thursday, May 25

Newcomers Club of Montgomery Luncheon The Newcomers Club of Montgomery invites all women of the River Region to attend our monthly luncheon from 11:30 a.m. until 1:30 p.m. at the Arrowhead Country Club. This month, put your creative ideas to work designing and constructing a new hat for our Mad Hatter’s Party. To make it more fun, we’ll all be voting on favorite hats in the following categories: Floral, Fruit, Whimsical and Theme, with a final vote for Best in Show. Join us for the light-hearted and fun competition! Cost is $18 and reservations must be made by noon Monday, May 22, to Jan Burdette at (334) 593-9266 or jan8410@bellsouth.net. Visit www. newcomersmontgomery.com. ARTtalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. This unique program, designed for artists and art lovers alike, has been celebrating the work of Montgomery area artists for more than 25 years. Sign up for a new season of opportunities to view outstanding artwork and receive feedback about your own work. ARTtalk meets on select Thursday evenings in the Museum Library. Cost: $20 for Museum or Art Guild members; $35 for non-members. Register now and get an up-close look at artists, their work, and the creative process! E-mail edsecy@mmfa.org or call (334) 2404365 for reservations or visit www.mmfa.org.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Friday Night Live Dance for 5th- and 6th-grade Students 7-10 p.m. Doster Community Center, Prattville. $5 per child for students of Autauga County Schools. Every child must be on the school roster in order to attend. If you are interested in chaperoning, you must register by calling the office (334-595-0800) the day before the dance. Children will not be allowed to leave until their parent or guardian arrives to pick them up.

RXR Music Fest: Memorial Day Weekend -Through May 28 6 p.m. nightly. Town Green at Russell Crossroads on Lake Martin. Friday bands include Airside and Lamont; Saturday bands Bank Walters and Raquel; Sunday bands Jordy Searcy and The Jonathan Bloom Band. For more info, visit www.theamponlakemartin.com/ or call (256) 496-4232.

Sunday, May 28

Jazz Jams 2-4 p.m. in the Orientation Circle at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. This event is FREE and everyone is welcome to attend. Listen to the best jazz artists from the River Region perform or bring an instrument of your own and join in with the band! Seating is limited, so arrive early for this great afternoon of live music. Drop in the studios and create art projects with your children designed around exhibitions in the Museum’s Temporary Galleries. No reservations necessary. Thanks to the Alabama Roots Society for making Jazz Jams possible. For more info, visit http://mmfa.org/ or call (334) 240-4333. Montgomery Biscuits Dollar Dog Tuesday/ Gathering of Eagles Celebration! 7:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Enjoy $1 hot dogs tonight, plus join us as we honor and recognize the 2017 class of Eagles, heroic and famous Air Force pilots who risked their lives to protect ours. Come meet these real life superheroes and learn about their combat history. For tickets or more info, visit www. biscuitsbaseball.com or call (334) 323-2255.

Thursday, June 1

Red Door Theatre Presents JASON PETTY’s Hank Williams - The Lonesome Tour -- Also June 2 7:30 p.m. A ONE-MAN SHOW. Jason Petty began portraying the legendary Hank Williams on country music’s biggest stage in 1996, the world-famous Ryman Auditorium, in the critically acclaimed musical biography, Lost Highway. After two years, he began touring the U.S., including the Alabama Shakespeare Festival, and Canada with the show. Call (334) 7388687 or e-mail info@reddoortheatre.org for tickets.

Friday, June 2

Friday on the Green 6:30 p.m. Russell Crossroads at Lake Martin. Great outdoor event during the spring and summer months. Bring your family and friends – even your pup on a leash for a great time with lawn games and music tonight, from Lake Martin, Richard Murray and Rusty Brown are on the Green Stage. It’s free! So, pack your

cooler and picnic basket, or stop by nearby Catherine’s Market. For more info, call (256) 496-4232 or visit www.russellcrossroads.com/.

Monday, June 5

Sports Camp at Young Meadows Presbyterian Church -- Through June 9 9 a.m.-noon. 5780 Vaughn Road. Children who have completed grades K5-5th grade are welcome to attend and can choose from several activities such as basketball, baseball, soccer, volleyball, dance and art. Other activities include Bible lessons, music, snacks and fun! Children need to wear play clothes and closed-toe shoes, such as athletic shoes. For more info or to register your child, call (334) 244-1385 or visit www.youngmeadows.org. Wetumpka Depot Summer Program for 2nd Grade and Up -- Through June 9 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Disney’s Lion King for Kids. Showcase performances June 9 at 5:30 p.m. and June 10 at 11 a.m. & 1 p.m. Early registration $175; postregistration $200. Call (334) 868-1440 or visit www. wetumpkadepot.com. Lee Gonet’s ACT Prep Class -- Through June 9 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Lee Gonet has taught ACT prep classes in the Montgomery area for the past 21 years of her 37-year career as an educator. She is currently on staff at Cornerstone Classical Christian Academy, teaching various courses for 7th-12th grades. Total cost is $150, which includes 30 hours of practice and instruction, book, three full practice tests, handouts, college application counseling, water, snacks, and pizza on the last day. Contact her for more information at thegonets@elmore.rr.com or (334) 524-7371.

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Millbrook Community Summer Theater Camp Through June 9 Cost is $75 per actor; $25 deposit due by May 22. Fee includes camp, lunch and T-shirt. For more info, visit www.millbrooktheater.com/summer-camp.html or call (334) 782-7317. Cloverdale Playhouse Summer Workshops -Through June 9 Rising K-2nd Graders: 9-11:30 a.m.; Rising 3-5th Graders: 9 a.m.-noon; Rising 6-8th Graders: 1-4 p.m.; and Rising 9-12th Graders: 1-4 p.m. All programs cost $125. Class size is limited. Please register early to guarantee your space. For info about financial assistance, classes, or registration, call (334) 262-1530 or visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/classes-andcamps.

Tuesday, June 6

Montgomery’s Capitol Sounds Concert Band Presents ‘Summer Spectacular’ Concert 7 p.m. at Saint James United Methodist Church on Vaughn Road in East Montgomery. The Capitol Sounds will perform selections from “The Planets” by British composer Gustav Holst, and the Slavonic March by Russian composer Peter Tchaikovsky. In addition, the band will perform a medley from the Gershwin opera “Porgy and Bess,”,as well as a Symphonic Suite from “Star Trek.” Another highlight of the concert will be a tribute to the legendary songwriting duo of the Beatles, John Lennon and Paul McCartney. The event is free and open to the public, but donations are gladly accepted and will go towards performances for our upcoming 2017-18 season, including our Children’s Concert. For more info, visit www.capitolsounds.org.

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Ala. Dept. of Archives & History Exhibit galleries include a children’s gallery and a reference room for genealogical and historical research. In Grandma’s Attic, kids can try on clothes, try an old typewriter, sit at an old school desk or experience making a quilt square. Also visit our History at Home web page to print off fun activities to do at home. In addition, there are FREE, guided tours of the Museum of Alabama EVERY Saturday at 1 p.m. Follow us on Facebook, call 242-4435 or visit www. archives.alabama.gov. Alabama River Region Arts Center in Wetumpka has weekly after-school Arts Clubs meeting on Thursdays from 4-5 & 5-6 p.m. There are three clubs: Guitar (acoustic), Clay (polymer, ie “sculpy”) and Painting/Drawing. Each club is $20 a month. Students for Guitar Club must be 10 years old, but 7-year-olds are welcome for the other two. Clubs are limited to the first 10 students, for one month. The Pottery Studio is available to ARRAC members trained on the wheel. First Saturday of every month is a free Sit & Sew, from 9 a.m.-noon. (Bluegrass Jam is going on at the same time in another room.) 300 W. Tallassee St. (former Wetumpka Jr. High building). Visit www.arrac.org or see us on Facebook: Alabama River Region Arts Center, or call 578-9485 for more information.

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

“Artworks,” a hands-on children’s exhibit. FREE. Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, Blount Cultural Park. Hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Open until 9 p.m. Thursdays. Closed Mondays. For more info, call 240-4333.

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

3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 9 p.m.-midnight. Students must be dropped off by 10 p.m. and cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Must play basketball to be involved. Participants must have a photo ID (i.e. School ID). $3 for members; $7 for non-members. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ ymcamontgomery.org.

Prattville Movie Club (for Teens) Meeting twice a month on Fridays, current Prattville Movie Club members range from 14-18 years old and meet at the Carmike Promenade 12 on Cobbs Ford Road. There are no GPA requirements and no class requirements. We are friends who enjoy moviegoing and want to meet others who also enjoy watching movies. For more info, call (334) 2247811 or e-mail brandonperdue12@gmail.com.

Friday Night Open Volleyball Students in 5th through 12th grades get together every 1st and 3rd Friday at the Bell Road YMCA from 6-9 p.m. Students cannot leave without being picked up by parent or guardian (unless students drove themselves). Free for members; $3 for non-members. For more info, contact James Garvin at (334) 271-4343 or jgarvin@ ymcamontgomery.org.

Rosa Parks Museum 252 Montgomery Street. Hours are Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Sundays and holidays, closed. Admission 12 years and under-$5.50/Over 12-$7.50. Alabama college students with a valid student ID: $6.50; discount price for both Museum & Children’s Wing: adults: $14, children $10. For more info, call 241-8615 or visit www. troy.edu/rosaparks/.

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

Tales for Tots Join us for this FREE introduction to art in storybooks and in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts galleries for young children and their families. Each time a different work of art and special story will be presented. Next classes are May 24 from 10:30-11 a.m., and 11-11:30 a.m. Call 240-4365 or visit www.mmfa.org for more info.

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

Harriott II Riverboat Cruises Seasonal. Typical hours are 6:30-9 p.m. Live entertainment, cash bar and concessions available. For more info and available dates, visit www.funinmontgomery.com, call (334) 625-2100 or visit the Riverwalk Box Office at 200 Coosa Street. Montgomery Women’s Newcomers Group: Moving On After Moving In Thursdays from 9:15-11 a.m. beginning September 15. St. James UMC Cafe, Vaughn Rd. Childcare available. For info, contact pam.zavada@gmail.com or (256) 541-7888.

Breastfeeding Class This one-time class at Baptist Health provides expectant mothers with information about breastfeeding including various factors influencing lactation, advantages of breastfeeding, basic anatomy and physiology of milk

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!

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

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.

Old Alabama Town 19th and early 20th century outdoor history museum. Tours Monday-Saturday from 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Admission: $8 for adults, $4 for students ages 6-18. Under 6 free. 301 Columbus St., Montgomery. For information, call 240-4500 or vist www.landmarksfoundation.com/.

Friday Night Hoops Students in 5th through 12th grades get together with friends for pick-up games of basketball every 1st and

Classes

Breastfeeding Class Designed to prepare the expectant mother for breastfeeding her newborn. Also includes trouble-shooting common problems to establish a successful breastfeeding experience. Jackson Hospital, Classroom 1. Cost is $15. Class schedule is subject to change, so please call 2938497 or e-mail liz.owen@jackson.org to register or for more info.

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

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

YMCA 7 to 11 Club Calling all children ages 7 to 11 for this fun, free event. While Mom and Dad are working out, join us for games, arts & crafts, service projects and more. Earn special beads for participation and try to break records for superior achievements. Monthly special events will be hosted as well. Check with your YMCA center or visit ymcamontgomery.org for more details.

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

production, specific techniques to promote a successful breastfeeding experience and breastfeeding equipment and supplies. Classes are taught by IBLCE instructors. Partners are encouraged to participate. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. E-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst. org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Caring For Your Newborn Taught by Baptist Health Newborn Nursery nurses, this one-time class helps new families become familiar with the basics of caring for your infant in the first six weeks after birth. This interactive class covers routine hospital newborn procedures along with bathing, diapering, swaddling and soothing, normal infant behavior, appearance and sleep patterns. Class fee: $20. Registration is required. Please

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SupportGroups e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military.

is offered on select Saturdays of each month. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info.

rooms and information desks, and furnishing coffee for visitors. Volunteers work one four-hour shift per week. For more info, call 286-2977.

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

Maternity Area Tour Baptist Health’s Maternity Area Tour is for parents not attending Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp. Tour is offered on select Saturdays of each month and is complimentary. Tour is for adults only. Space is limited. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org for more info.

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

Childbirth Preparation Boot Camp (One Day Saturday Class) This fast-paced one day class taught by Baptist Health’s experienced Labor and Delivery Registered Nurses prepares families to welcome their new addition. All aspects of Labor and Delivery from our hospital admission process through postpartum care are covered during class. Additional topics include Cesarean sections, medication and anesthesia options along with coping and comfort measures. Breathing and relaxation techniques are also introduced. Maternity Area Tour is included as a part of this class. Class offered select Saturdays of each month. Fee: $60 per couple and includes lunch. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst. org for more info. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. ID required. Chinese Language Classes Auburn Montgomery’s Office of Far Eastern Initiatives offers Saturday classes for children and adults. The one-hour weekly courses are provided free-of-charge as a service to the community. For more info or to register, contact April Ma at 244-3018 or ama@aum.edu. CPR & First Aid The American Red Cross offers classes in adult and infant/ child CPR as well as first aid and babysitting classes monthly. Call 260-3980. Diabetes Education --Prattville Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available Wednesdays by appointment at Prattville Medical Park. Call 213-6360 for more information. Diabetes Education --Baptist Outpatient Nutrition and Diabetes Education services available weekdays by appointment. Call 213-6360 for more info. Family Nutrition Classes Fun, hands-on 3 or 6-week in-person or online course developed by well-known pediatrician Dr William Sears. Classes focused towards parents of children age 3-12. The goal is to learn simple ways to improve the health of your child through lifestyle, exercise, attitude, and nutrition. Fee includes materials, activities and a snack. A 2-hour preview class is available. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@ gmail.com or visit www.Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Foster Parent Training Classes Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries sponsors foster care training classes in the Tri-County Area. For more information on foster care or to register for the classes, please contact Bobbi Olson, Alabama Baptist Children’s Homes and Family Ministries, at 334-430-7569 or e-mail bolson@abchome.org. Infant Safety/CPR This one-time class sponsored by Baptist Health will teach parents and grandparents the American Heart Association’s Family and Friends CPR for infants and children including care of the choking infant, infant rescue and breathing with hands on practice using ACTAR CPR dolls for class participants. This class will also help parents with creating a safe environment for their child. Classes are taught by certified CPR Instructors. This class is not a certification class. Fee: $10 per person. Registration is required. Please e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. A 10 percent class discount is available to Baptist Health employees and members of the military. Maternity Area Tour Only Baptist Medical Center East maternity area tour for expectant mothers and families not attending Childbirth Preparation Class or Boot Camp. This tour is complimentary and

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Pre- and Post-natal Fitness Classes Includes water aerobics, step-floor aerobics and strength training. SportsFirst. Call 277-7130. Pregnancy Nutrition Classes Interactive 3-week series of classes developed by wellknown pediatrician Dr. William Sears. Classes focus on lifestyle choices, attitude, and exercise at any stage of pregnancy; optimal nutrition before, during and after pregnancy; transition from pregnancy to motherhood. Courses can be taken separately or as a series. Jump in any time! Materials and snack provided with fee. For more info, contact alissabethtaylor@gmail.com or visit www. Facebook.com/LeaninCentralAL. Prepared Childbirth Class (Understanding Birth) Jackson Hospital. Preregistration required. Topics include: pregnancy, labor, birth, options for pain management, medical procedures, cesarean birth. Note: This class is a basic overview of the labor and delivery process and does not prepare someone for “natural” or unmedicated childbirth. Cost: $25 (covers mother and support person). Class size is limited. Please try to register by the 5th month of pregnancy for the best selection of available class dates. Call (334) 293-8497 or e-mail: liz.owen@jackson.org. Sibling Preparation Class One-hour class is designed for expectant “big brothers and sisters” ages 3 to 8. They will learn about the arrival of their new baby through an introduction to the hospital experience and the early days at home. Parents should plan to attend with their child. Baptist Medical Center East. Registration is required. Call 273-4445 or e-mail smallwonders@baptistfirst.org. Slow Flow Yoga Classes are held at Old Alabama Town on Tuesdays and Thursdays, from 11:30-12:15, and 12:30-1:15. Beginners welcome! No registration needed; just come to Molton South Building. Enter through the Rose House, located on Columbus St. between N. Hull and Decatur. Parking is available along Decatur and N. Hull. Drop in fee: $12; 5-class pass: $50 (exp. 60 days). Monthly unlimited: $65. Mat rental: $1. For more info, call (334) 240-4500 or (334) 207-0909 or e-mail juliet.yoga@icloud.com.

Services

American Cancer Society Seeks Volunteers for Road to Recovery This program is designed to ensure that cancer patients have transportation to and from medical facilities for treatment. Anyone who has a driver’s license, a safe driving record, personal automobile insurance, owns a car or has access to one, and can spare as little as one morning or afternoon a month is encouraged to volunteer. For more info, or to volunteer, call the American Cancer Society at 1-800-ACS-2345. Baptist Hospice Volunteers There are many ways to help, such as special projects and events or providing administrative support for the staff, that are essential. Volunteers often have special talents and innovative ideas that add to our program. Please call Gloria @395-5018 to join our dynamic team. Baptist Hospital Volunteers Volunteers are needed at Baptist Medical Center East, Baptist Medical Center South and Prattville Baptist Hospital. Duties vary by facility but include delivering mail and flowers, transporting patients, staffing waiting

Hospice of Montgomery Volunteer Opportunities 1111 Holloway Park, Montgomery. There is a current need for Patient Care and Family Support volunteers, Clerical volunteers, and Outreach/Fundraising volunteers. For more info, call (334) 279-6677 or e-mail kjones@hospiceofmontgomery.org. Jackson Hospital Animal Therapy Program Jackson Hospital’s Animal Therapy Program is a vital part of its patient care. Animals in the program are limited to dogs, and no other animals are allowed to participate. Currently, there are 10 dogs in the program. Their handlers have undergone extensive training and orientation, and visit the hospital weekly. For more information, please call 293-8894.

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

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

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

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Support Groups Adoption Support

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) This group provides education and social interaction for adoptive families. Montgomery Group meets 3rd Tuesdays, 6-7:30 p.m., Room 8114 at Frazer Memorial UMC. For more info, call Sonia Martin at 409-9477 or at smartin@ childrensaid.org. Birth Parent and Adult Adoptee Support Group Children’s Aid Society hosts a free support group for adult adoptees and birth parents. This group provides emotional support for people at all stages of the life-long adoption process. Meetings held at Children’s Aid Society, 2141 14th Avenue South in Birmingham. For class dates and times, call Kathy King at (205) 943-5331 or e-mail kking@ childrensaid.org. Panda Pals is a support group for families who have adopted or in the process of adopting children from China. We have playdates, family nights and get-togethers to talk about raising our children from China. If you would like to join our group, just e-mail PandaPals2005@yahoogroups. com or call Tracie Singleton at 395-8215.

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Cancer Support

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

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

OTHER PROGRAMS/SERVICES OFFERED BY THE AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY: Reach to Recovery matches newly diagnosed breast cancer patients with survivors on a one on one basis. Free wigs and other supplies for cancer patients Free rides to treatment through our Road To Recovery program (where volunteer drivers use their cars and time to take in need cancer patients to treatment) Free lodging through the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge in Birmingham (if patients are sent to Birmingham for treatment) On-line cancer information classes and support group through cancer.org. Information anytime and trained specialists at 1-800ACS-2345. Cancer Patient and Caregiver Support Group 1-2 p.m., Tuesdays, Montgomery Cancer Center, 4145 Carmichael Road. The group is facilitated by professionally trained health care providers and other members of the support care team. It’s free and open to all cancer patients and their caregivers. Call (334) 273-7000.

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

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Women of Hope Breast Cancer Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 2nd Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Room 8114. Provides education, awareness and mentoring for breast cancer patients/survivors, family or friends. For more info, call 220-4599 or e-mail womenofhope@charter.net.

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Divorce Support

Gambling Support

Illness Support

Grief Support

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

Gamblers Anonymous meetings in the River Region Area: Saturdays @ 7 p.m., Trinity Episcopal Church, 5375 U.S. Hwy. 231 (Directly across from the Winn-Dixie shopping center), Wetumpka. Call (334) 567-7534. Sundays @ 5 p.m., Mental Health Association, 1116 South Hull Street, Montgomery. Mondays @ 6 p.m., St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 4475 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery. Gamblers Anonymous Hotline: 334-541-5420 Bereaved Spouses Support Group A new ministry of Cornerstone Christian Church, USA (Unavoidably Single Again) Ministries is designed to offer ongoing support, social events and fellowship to those who have lost their spouses to death. The group is open to ALL widowed individuals, regardless of age, religious beliefs, or length of marriage or widowhood. Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays at the church’s building, 301 Dalraida Road. Please e-mail farauthor@aol.com for more info. Bereavement Group, Hospice of Montgomery office, 1111 Holloway Park. This group is intended to address those affected by a recent loss (0-12 months after death). Through meeting with others who are walking a similar journey, you will be encouraged to work through the complications of your loss, understand your pain, and adjust to your new reality. For more info, call 279-6677. Compassionate Friends, Eastmont Baptist Church, 4505 Atlanta Hwy, first Tuesdays at 7 p.m. Compassionate Friends is a national self-help support organization for families grieving the death of a child. For more information about the group, call (334) 284-2721. Grief Recovery Support, Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy., Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. in Rm. 3105. Call 2728622 for more info. GriefShare meets weekly at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. This program is non-denominational and features biblical concepts for healing your grief. Three key parts make up your GriefShare experience: video seminar; support group time; and workbook study. GriefShare will be led by Howard and Carol Payne and Jim Williams. To register or for more info, call 279-5433.

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

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.

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

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

DivorceCare meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. It fosters a weekly supportive and caring environment to heal the hurt of separation and divorce. The DivorceCare experience involves a dynamic video presentation, group share time, and personal workbook exercises. Facilitators for DivorceCare are Todd Smith, Wendy Timbie and Becki Harrison. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. DivorceCare and DivorceCare 4 Kids First Baptist Church Montgomery, Wednesdays at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 (scholarships available). Contact Kathy Cooper at kcooper@montgomeryfbc.org or 241-5125. Second Saturday Divorce Workshop for Women Montgomery Country Club, Azalea Room, 3800 Narrow Lane Road. 9 a.m.-noon. This is a 3-hour workshop that is offered monthly, designed to help participants explore the legal, financial, and emotional issues of divorce and gain a greater understanding of the process. The cost to attend is $20 per person and pre-registration is required. For more info, please call or e-mail Sommer Morris at (334) 6121086 or sommer.morris@morganstanley.com. You may also visit www.secondsaturday.com.

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

Homeschool Support

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

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

Celebrate Recovery is a 12-step-Christian process to help you cope with hurts, hang-ups, and habits on a weekly basis. Meets at Vaughn Forest Church on Wednesday nights from 6-8 p.m. You will experience hope and strength for each day. “Celebrate Recovery” is led by Jeff McFarland. To register or for more info, call 279-5433. Christians Against Substance Abuse (CASA) is a 12step spiritual recovery program for overcoming addictions. Using the steps and the Bible, we help build self-esteem, responsible behavior, learning to make amends for destructive behavior, then fill the void in our hearts by developing a loving relationship with God. Class begins each Wednesday evening @ 6:30 p.m. Please contact the Prattville Church of Christ office, 344 East Main St. in Prattville (334-365-4201), for additional information. Diabetes Support Group Noon-1 p.m. and 4-5 p.m., fourth Thursdays, Jackson Hospital Park Place Building Suite 302. Are you interested in learning how to better manage your Type 2 diabetes? Would you like support from others as you work to control your diabetes? Sponsored by inpatient diabetes educator Michelle Carothers, this group offers clinical information, advice and tips to make living with diabetes easier for you and your family. Register today! Call (334) 293-8574 or e-mail michelle.carothers@jackson.org. Gluten Intolerance Group (www.gluten.net) is a nonprofit organization with the mission to provide support to those with any form of gluten intolerance. Guidelines are provided on how to eat safely both at home and eating out. Another objective is to facilitate more effective communication between the local gluten-free community and stores, restaurants and the medical community. Meets 2nd Thursdays, 6-7 p.m., at Taylor Road Baptist Church, Fellowship Suite (Turn on Berryhill Rd. by EastChase). Check the blog for special “alternate site” meetings (www. glutenfreemontgomery.blogspot.com) For more info, you may also e-mail dr.hetrick@charter.net or visit the group’s Facebook page. Montgomery Area Mended Hearts, First floor of Montgomery Cardiovascular Institute on the campus of Baptist Medical Center South. For anyone who has experienced cardiac illness. Third Mondays, alternates between 1:30 and 6:30 p.m. Call 286-3410 for more info. NAMI Montgomery (National Alliance for the Mentally Ill) provides understanding, education and information to family members and friends of those who suffer mental illness. The NAMI Montgomery Family Member Support Group meets second Mondays from 6:30-8:30 p.m. in room 3103 at Frazer Memorial UMC. Call Mary Jo Logan (271-2280) for details. NAMI is also presenting a 12-week series of free classes on mental illness. These classes are for family members living with or supporting individuals with mental illness. The “Family To Family” classes are on Thursdays running March 2-May 18 (from 6-8:30 p.m.). “Family to Family” will be held at Frazer. To register, call Mary Jo at 271-2280 or e-mail classicmjl@hotmail.com. OCD Support Group (Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder) Long showers, multiple hand-washing, rituals, checking the stove, hoarding and symmetry. This support group is open to anyone who has struggled with OCD. You’re not alone anymore. Meetings are held at 5500 Ash Grove Circle, Montgomery. Call Donald at 220-7555 for info.

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SupportGroups Overeaters Anonymous, Unity of Montgomery, 1922 Walnut St., Saturdays from 3-4 p.m. Contact Misty at 3249568 or Carol at 467-5742. Parkinson’s Support, Frazer UMC Activity Bldg. Room 8114, on 4th Thursdays. Eat from 6-6:30 p.m. Meeting from 6:30-7:30 p.m. Information, education, inspiration and social time for those with PD and anyone who is interested. For more info, contact Jan Neil at (334) 272-8622 or Sheila Lindley at (334) 260-4940 or (334) 328-8742. Traumatic Brain Injury Support, cafeteria at HealthSouth on Narrow Lane in Montgomery. 2nd Thursdays at 6 p.m. Sponsored by Alabama Head Injury Foundation for anyone with a traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injury or related disability. For more info, contact Holli at (334) 2900646 or e-mail: ahif_montgomery_auburn@yahoo.com. Visit www.ahif.org.

The Montgomery Multiples Club is a non-profit organization offering support to the mothers and families of twins, triplets, and more in the Central Alabama region. They have a mom’s night out with dinner once a month. They also have a yard sale twice a year, in the spring and again in the fall. For more info, visit https://sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), First Baptist Church, 305 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, 9:3011:30 a.m., September through May. Moms, need a little break? We have educational speakers, great conversation, and fun activities. Free childcare is provided. Visit www. montgomeryfbc.org/MOPS or contact Tiffany Alewine at 241-5165. MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Vaughn Forest Baptist Church, 8660 Vaughn Road, Montgomery. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 9:30-11:30 a.m. Are you in need of a time-out? MOPS joins mothers together by a common bond, to be better wives, moms and friends along this journey in the trenches of motherhood. Childcare is provided. For more info, e-mail vaughnforestmops@gmail. com or visit http:// vfcmops.weebly. com/.

Pregnancy Loss/ Infertility

Parent Support

D.A.D.S. (Dad and Daughter Saturdays) Second Saturdays at the Juliette Hampton Morgan Library in downtown Montgomery at 11 a.m. D.A.D.S. gives fathers and daughters an opportunity to read together to create fun, educational memories. This free event is open to the public and is sponsored by the Montgomery City-County Public Library and Dreamland Barbeque. For more info, call Ron Simmons at (334) 777-8596. La Leche League of Montgomery Area has served local mothers since 1984. Women who are pregnant, interested in breastfeeding and nursing mothers are invited to attend our free mother-to-mother support meetings or e-mail with breastfeeding questions. Join us with your babies. Children of all ages are welcome. We currently have morning and evening meetings. For more info, e-mail LLL.Montgomery.AL@gmail.com or visit http://www.llli.org/groups/@ llli*group*montgomery or “like” us on Facebook. Mom2Mom is a playgroup to connect mothers of children ages birth-5 years at Frazer United Methodist Church to share fun and inspiration in our journey together, with our children, and with Christ. E-mail Mom2mom@frazerumc. org for more information. Moms’ LIFE (Living In Faith Everyday) First Baptist Church, Prattville. Meets twice monthly from 8:30-11:45 a.m. in the chapel at First Baptist Church in Prattville August through May. For moms of all stages and ages of life. We offer a time of fellowship, Bible study, musical guests, special guest speakers and a lot of fun! Cost is $5 per meeting. Childcare provided by reservation. For more info and to reserve your spot, call Kelley Manning at 361-7919.

Montgomery Parents I May 2017

Hannah’s Prayer, Prattville First United Methodist Church, 2nd Thursdays and 3rd Sundays. Support group for women dealing with pregnancy loss/infertility issues. Call (334) 365-5977. Post-abortion Support Group, Saint James United Methodist Church, 6-8:30 p.m. meeting 2nd and last Thursdays of the month for six sessions beginning March 9 and ending May 25. Do you have a secret you have promised yourself “you are taking to the grave?” Come and listen to stories of others who were scared to surrender their secret. Come and find healing and peace that you never even knew you needed. Come and learn about the One who came to set you free. Join us in a study of “Surrendering the Secret” by Pat Layton and know that you are not alone! (Learner guide and digital download sessions.) To sign up, e-mail annpemberton@charter.net. Sav-A-Life conducts a HOPE GROUP for women who have experienced the emotional aftermath of an abortion. Groups meet eight consecutive Thursday nights at 6:30 p.m. and are facilitated by women who have experienced abortion. The “Forgiven and Set Free” Bible study is used. Confidientiality is assured. Please call Kathy at 260-8010 for information. “Take Heart,” Room 116 at Eastmont Baptist Church, first Mondays of each month at 6 p.m. Support group for women dealing with infertility and/or miscarriage. Contact Melissa at (205) 913-2667 for more information.

Single Parents Support

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

Single Moms Support Group, Landmark Church of Christ, Wednesday nights at 6:30 p.m. in Classroom 118. For more information call 277-5800. Single Moms’ Care and Support Group, Perry Hill United Methodist Church, 910 Perry Hill Road (corner of Perry Hill and Harrison Roads). Meets 2nd and 4th Thursdays from 6:15-8 p.m. Free snack supper provided to moms and children. Child care for infants-16 years. Call 272-3174 for more info. Singles’ Small Groups, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6:30-7:30 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall Lobby. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc.org for more info. SWAK (Single with Amazing Kids), Maxwell / Maxwell Gunter AFB. This network is connecting and empowering single parents and their families through information, encouragement, and many family-oriented events throughout the year. We meet the last Wednesday or Thursday of each month. For more info, e-mail t2763@aol.com. Join us on Facebook for daily restaurant specials, area kid-friendly events, and tips/ideas for families on a budget. TNT (Tuesday Night Together) for Singles, Frazer Memorial UMC, Tuesdays from 6-7 p.m. in the Fellowship Hall, Bldg. 7000. A meal ($5) and program are provided. Call 495-6368 or e-mail singles@frazerumc. org for more info.

Special Needs Support

Alabama Angels Pageant, a nonprofit pageant for males and females of any age with special needs. Participation is free. 2016 pageant date TBA. Visit www. alabamaangels.org and look for us on Facebook! Central Alabama Autism Support Team (C.A.A.S.T.), St. Joseph’s Catholic Church on Hwy. 31 in Prattville from 6-8 p.m. 3rd Thursdays quarterly (Feb., May, Aug., Nov.). Visit www.easysite.com/caast or e-mail casst50@yahoo.com for more info. Montgomery Area Down Syndrome Outreach, Vaughn Park Church of Christ, 2nd Fridays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We have activities, speakers and special events throughout the year for the parents, siblings and children with Down Syndrome. Childcare provided. Visit www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com or visit our Facebook page (MADSOG) for more information. Contact MADSOG at montgomeryareadownsyndrome@ gmail.com for more info. Montgomery Area Hearing Loss Support Group meets monthly at the Wesley Building of the First Methodist Church in Montgomery on 2nd Thursdays at 4 p.m. It is affiliated with the nationally recognized non-profit advocacy group, Hearing Loss Association of America. The purpose is to bring together all adults and parents of children who would like to know more about hearing losses, its causes and its possible corrections. Refreshments at each meeting. For more info, contact HearingInfo@earthlink.net.

Teens/Families Support

Alienated Grandparents Anonymous meets third Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m in room 3104 at Frazer Memorial UMC, 6000 Atlanta Hwy. For more info, call 272-8622 Call Family Guidance Center of Alabama at 2704100 for information about current classes. Support Group for Teens with difficulties communicating with parents and friends. Contact Felicia Pressley at Pressley Counseling at (334) 625-0159.

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

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AdvertiserDirectory

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

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Edward Jones-Lane Easterling, 49

Mrs. Sandy’s House, 83

Evangel Christian Academy, 37

My Kids Attic, The Shoppes of, 21

Family Guidance Center, 41

New Park, 2

FC Montgomery Soccer Academy, 69

OB/GYN Montgomery, Dr. Desautels, 23

First Bapist Church, Montgomery, 81

O’Connor Tennis Lessons, 71

ACE of the River Region, 61

First Baptist Church, P’ville, 46

Paint n Clay Studio, 75

Adventure Sports II, 42

First UMC, Prattville, 30

Pediatric Nephrology of Alabama, 39

Alabama Christian Academy, 11, 15

Frazer Kindergarten and Preschool, 33

Pet Palace Hotels, 22

AL Dept. of Public Health, Inside Front

Frazer Memorial UMC, 14

Prattville YMCA, 49

Alabama Dance Theatre, 33

Health Services, Inc., 18

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 51

Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, 79

Aldersgate UMC/Childcare, 31, 35

Herron Dermatology & Laser, 43

Armory Athletics, 52

Holy Cross Episcopal School, 24

ASKIN/Synergy House, 83

Hooper Academy, 23

ASU Acting Camp, 73

Huntingdon Basketball Camp, 65

ASU Continuing Education Camps, 34

Inflatables of Montgomery, 25

AUM Early Childhood Center, 63

Kingry Orthodontics, 19

Baptist Health, 13

Kumon, 7

Barb’s on Mulberry, 57

Learning Tree Child Care, 58

Beth’s Heirloom Sewing, 50

Legacy Early Learning Center, 44

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Bradford Health Services, 85

Lori Mercer Photography, 30

Capital Chevrolet, 3

Macon East Academy, 27

Cellar Door Wine Club, 83

Mathnasium, 29

Chapman Orthodontics, 37

MEOW Academy, 77

Children’s Hospital of Alabama, 59

Memorial Presbyterian Childcare, 42

Churchill Academy, 47

Montessori @ Mulberry, 17

Dentistry for Children, 44

Montgomery Catholic Schools, 4

United Gymstars & Cheer, 75

Docarmo’s Taekwondo Center, 67

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 87

Vaughn Park Mom’s Day Out, 57

Dr. Kendall Dunn-Orthodontist, 39

Montg. Pediatric Dentistry/Ortho, Inside Back

Vaughn Road Preschool, 38

Dynamite Magic & Balloons, 32

Montgomery Uniforms Plus, 53

YMCA Camp Chandler, 52

E & S Hobbies, 83

Moody Learning, 40

You and Me Boutique, 8

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Professional Pediatrics, 12 Pump It Up Party, 40 Riverview Camp for Girls, 54 Rockin’ Jump, 64 Saint James School, 1 Saint James UMC, 87 Sea Dragon Pirate Cruises, 55 Shade Tree Riding Stables, 69 Shane’s Rib Shack, 50 Spacewalker, The, 19 Spotless Cleaning Services, 72 Success Unlimited Academy, 28 Sylvan Learning Center, 31 Taylor Road Baptist Church, 25 The Montgomery Academy, Back Cover

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection, 71 Trinity Presbyterian School, 9, 45 Tru-Cut Lawn Care, 32

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Smurfs: The Lost Village

The Fate of the Furious

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: BSexual Content: AProfanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Smurfs: The Lost Village PG for some mild action and rude humor. While previous cinematic adventures (The Smurfs and The Smurfs 2) have mixed the drawn characters with live action humans, this episode is back to a fully animated effort. In this production, the creators have acknowledged some of the problematic issues of an all-male society, minus one outlier. Smurfette (voice by Demi Lovato) is the only female in the sequestering, and she (gasp) is not a real Smurf. For those who haven’t studied the complete Smurf canon, the evil wizard Gargamel (voice of Rainn Wilson) created Smurfette in an attempt to lure the other Smurfs and harvest their magical powers. However, Papa Smurf (voice of Mandy Patinkin), the patriarchal leader of the community, used his spellcasting abilities to change her into the lovely Smurfette she is today. This backstory is important because Smurfette is the spotlight character in this movie. She’s sad because all the other Smurfs have easily identifiable traits, which are reinforced by their adjective naming convention. Jokey Smurf (voice of Gabriel Iglesias) plays jokes, Nosey Smurf (voice of Kelly Asbury) spies on people, and Baker Smurf (voice of Gordon Ramsay) has nice buns. But who is Smurfette? Even Brainy Smurf’s (voice of Danny Pudi) amazing new machine can’t identify her true passions. Desperate to try new ideas and activities to discover who she really is, Smurfette ends up near the far edge of woods and meets something she never thought existed: Another female Smurf. Convinced there must be another village of Smurfs, she returns to solicit help from her friends Brainy, Clumsy (voice of Jack McBrayer), and Hefty Smurf (voice of Joe Manganiello). Knowing the highly protective Papa Smurf wouldn’t approve of Smurfette leaving the community, they secretly embark on their excursion. Of course, the nasty Gargamel is quick to interrupt their progress. Other adversaries present plenty of conflict as well, which may prove frightening for young viewers. Smurfette’s meeting with her evil creator results in a morbid outcome that seemed a little shocking -- even to this adult. The foray into the hidden forest also reveals plants that gobble Smurfs and other life forms, a dangerous river journey and a monster that needs to be tamed. And a moment of awkward sexual innuendo occurs between Papa Smurf and Smurfwillow (voice of Julia Roberts). Families should be prepared to discuss the themes and role models presented by these blue imps. Portrayals of slapstick mayhem and practical jokes (usually initiated by Jokey Smurf) may need some adult direction to determine appropriate expressions of humor. Nosey Smurf, a frequent unwanted eavesdropper, will provide opportunities to discuss gossiping and keeping confidences. At the end of the day Smurfs: The Lost Village will likely be reasonably satisfying entertainment -- especially if it comes with some Parent-Smurf guidance.

MPAA Rating:PG-13 Overall: C Violence: D+ Sexual Content: BProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated The Fate of the Furious PG-13 for prolonged sequences of violence and destruction, suggestive content, and language. The street racers return for their eighth turn at the wheel in The Fate of the Furious, a title that evokes a sense of mystery. Well, let me assure you the biggest mystery continues to be how the laws of physics are put on hold so Dominic (Vin Diesel) and his merry men and women can pull off the four-wheel tricks this franchise is known for. In fact, the opening minutes prove to be the most invigorating and comical of the entire movie. The first act is shot in Cuba (one of the very first American movies to do so since the political thawing). Dom is on his honeymoon with Letty (Michelle Rodriquez) and can’t resist racing a local down the cobbled streets of Havana. He pushes the old beater he’s driving so hard that the engine catches on fire. No problem. A quick one-eighty and he takes the finish line -- in reverse. The gimmick gets the laughs it deserves, and demonstrates the style of humor that will help you endure the well-over-two-hours of reckless heroics to follow. The story shifts into drive when Dom meets a mysterious woman in Havana (Charlize Theron) who shows him a photo on her phone. We don’t get to see the image, but suddenly our main man turns into Zombie Dom. Shortly thereafter, a pair of government agents (Kurt Russell, Scott Eastwood) send Dom and his team to Germany to intercept an EMP (electromagnetic pulse bomb). Once they have acquired the device, Dom turns rogue and takes the precious cargo with him. Of course he’s working for Cipher, the femme fatale he met earlier. But the big question is why? Amongst the countless careening cars crashing through hordes of scurrying pedestrians and racking up massive property damage points, there is also plenty of time for gunplay and hand-to-hand confrontations. The good news? The “babe quotient” has been dialed down, except for the opening Cuban race sequence where countless women bare their assets for the cause of street racing. After a brief scene of Dom and Letty in bed, the action plot takes over. As so many movies do, this franchise continues to depend upon many people with shady pasts to save the world. It also preaches “family” but, like a mafia clan, all that love and harmony leaves a trail of violence and destruction in its path. By the time we make it to the checkered flag of this far too long adventure, we begin to think the world might be a safer place if Dominic would only commit to his desire to settle down for a nice long marriage.

What Parents need to know about...

Violence: Illegal car racing, dangerous driving, and impossible stunts are frequently depicted and glamorized. These result in spectacular crashes, carrolls, head-on collisions and property damage. Also included are depictions of cars driving through crowds of pedestrians (no people appear to be hit in these scenes), the hacking of autonomous–driving software in vehicles that are then used to create havoc on the streets. Characters frequently engage in hand-tohand combat and weapons use: characters are beaten, shot and killed with accompanying sound effects (little blood is shown). A character is shot on screen and another, who is bound, is shot off screen. Sexual Content: Numerous woman in scanty attire attend a car race. A couple kiss passionately and are later shown in bed together. Characters discuss an unplanned pregnancy. Some sexual references and innuendo are heard. Profanity: Asexual expletive in used within a non-sexual context. The script includes frequent scatological slang, mild and moderate cursing, and terms of deity. Vulgar expressions, crude slang and slurs are also heard. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters drink at a social gathering.

What Parents need to know about...

Violence: Characters are in frequent peril. An evil Gargamel, captures Smurfs and threatens them. This same wizard character often chases and attempts to abduct Smurfs. In one scene, the Smurfs rescue Gargamel from drowning only to have the revived wizard immediately attempt to drown them. Fantastic flowers and plants appear to eat and punch characters. A character kicks another in the crotch. A monster appears in a “made you jump” moment. Sexual Content: A moment of innuendo occurs between male and female. Profanity: None noted. Drugs/Alcohol Use: Magic potions are used. Montgomery Parents I May 2017

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AC A DE M I C Y E A R 2 0 1 5 - 1 6

By the Numbers A C A D E M I C S

86%

OF THE CLASS OF 2016 EARNED M E R I T- B A S E D SCHOLARSHIPS TOTA L I N G O V E R

MILLION

13 OF O N LY

INSTITUTIONS OF HIGHER LEARNING

7 T H G R A D E students qualified for D U K E T I P

CUM LAUDE SOCIETY Chapters in Alabama

THE ARTS

16 Speech & Debate Accolades

AP SCHOLARS

88 Accepted to

9.5

N AT I O N A L MERIT FINALISTS

STATE CHAMPIONSHIPS THE MOST IN ALABAMA

Ranks 3rd

Overall State Championships in the United States

2016 team member named ALABAMA SPEECH &

DEBATE STUDENT OF THE YEAR and nominated for the National Student of the Year

AP STUDIO ART SENIORS EXHIBIT AT STONEHENGE

Upper School Chorus

HERITAGE NATIONAL

CHORAL COMPETITION in Seattle, Washington

LEADERSHIP

AT H L E T I C S

Ask about financial aid options that make an MA education a possibility.

S TAT E C H A M P I O N S H I P S

Contact Susannah Cleveland Director of Admissions admissions@montgomeryacademy.org

334.272.8210 | montgomeryacademy.org

The Academy admits students of every color, gender, national or ethnic origin, religion, sexual orientation, or other legally protected status to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.