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EXPLORE S aint Jam e s S ch ool WELCOME WEDNESDAYS!
Prospective Pre-K3, Pre-K4, and Kindergarten Students November 18 December 9 January 13
You are invited to join us for a morning of hands-on learning and engaging experiences.
9-10am 9-10am 9-10am
To register: Visit STJmontgomery.org/visit Email admissions@stjmontgomery.org
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< <
Pre-K2 – 12th Grade
Parents will enjoy a tour of campus and learn about our admissions process while children explore our classrooms and complete the STJ Assessment. Together, you will meet the most innovative STEAM teachers in Central Alabama, and experience the Saint James difference.
334-273-3021 or STJmontgomery.org
CHARACTER • COMMITMENT • COURAGE • COMMUNITY Schedule a tour to experience what it means to be a Trojan and learn how you can afford a Saint James School education for your child. Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.
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BURBANK
CROSSING
Ditch the Apartment Life Discover an affordable 55+retreat inthe heart of town
6101 Burbank Crossing Loop, Montgomery, AL
A fresh start. A place of your own. Explore the space and finishes at Burbank Crossing.
Comfort built into everyday living 55+ COMMUNITY
NEW HOME CONSTRUCTION
A community designed for your season of life, with comfort and peace of mind
Modern homes with quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design
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All-electric setup, heat pump, and Low-E glazed windows
Features designed for safer, more accessible everyday living
Call to schedule your tour
(334) 777-8636
Courtney & Chris Lowry
THE CORVETTE COUPLE River Region Parents I November 2026
driven2moveyou.com
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November2026
Volume 31 Number 12
TABLE OF CONTENTS
COLUMNS
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Publisher’s Note
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Play Ball
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A Parent’s “Dream” Gratitude List
The Holiday Tug-of-War
Tweens, Teens 40 and Screens
Find out how modern families can plan and prepare to actually enjoy the season.
45 Grands Are the
Why we can even be grateful for the chaos of parenting.
DeAnne Watson
Kristi Bush
Greatest
Kim Spivey
60 Mom 2 Mom Kim Spivey
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Holiday Happenings!
Is Sports Specialization a Good Idea?
Your guide to all the local and regional festivities for the fall and holiday seasons!
The pros and cons and when it makes sense.
DEPARTMENTS 8
Bits and Pieces
10 Teacher of the Month 14 School Zone 58 Family Calendar
On The Cover William Turner with his two youngest daughters, Amelia (17) and Harper (15). Coach Turner is a teacher and boys’ basketball coach at Marbury High School. Amelia is a senior and Harper is in the 10th grade at Marbury High, where both are cheerleaders. William is married to Katie Turner and the couple also has a grown daughter, Chloe (23), who attends Troy University. Katie shares all about their family in this month’s Mom 2 Mom interview. www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents
From the Editor
Parents
November always seems to arrive with a reminder that the holidays are just around the corner. Before we know it, our calendars will be filled with family gatherings, school programs, and Thanksgiving meal preparations. It’s a wonderful season, but it can also be an exhausting one, especially when we’re trying to make everything special for everyone. As parents, we sometimes put so much pressure on ourselves to create wonderful memories that we forget what actually makes those memories meaningful. It’s rarely the perfectly decorated table or the carefully planned celebration. More often, it’s the laughter around that table, the familiar traditions, and simply being together. This month’s feature on navigating the holidays with blended and extended families is a timely reminder that meaningful celebrations don’t have to look a certain way. When children are sharing holidays between households, grandparents, and growing families, flexibility and grace can make all the difference. Sometimes the greatest gift we can give our children is the freedom to enjoy the people who love them without feeling caught in the middle. Speaking of busy families, we’re excited to feature the Turner family on our November cover! In Mom to Mom, Katie Turner shares how Hurricane Katrina unexpectedly brought her family to the River Region and helped shape her perspective on motherhood. Her husband, William, is the boys’ basketball coach at Marbury High School, while daughters Amelia and Harper stay busy with cheerleading and other school activities. Between practices, games, and everything else that comes with raising daughters, the Turners know all about juggling a full family calendar. Through it all, Katie emphasizes the importance of kindness, perseverance, and raising girls who know their worth. Their story also makes a natural connection to another article in this issue about youth sports specialization. With so many opportunities available to young athletes, parents can feel pressure to choose one sport early and pursue it year-round. But as the article explains, allowing children to explore different sports and interests can help prevent injuries and burnout while keeping the fun in the game. It’s a good reminder that our children’s schedules should leave room for them to simply enjoy being kids. In Grands Are the Greatest, Kathy Boston, affectionately known as KK, reminds us how much the little things matter. Whether she’s cheering on her grandchildren at school activities, keeping the pantry stocked for their visits, or simply welcoming them through the front door, she’s creating memories that will last a lifetime. There’s a common thread running through these stories: our children don’t need perfect holidays, packed schedules, or parents who have everything figured out. They need our encouragement, attention, and the freedom to grow into the people they’re becoming. As we enter this season of gratitude, I hope we’ll give ourselves permission to slow down, loosen expectations, and appreciate the people around us. Happy Thanksgiving!
River Region Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. River Region Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@riverregionparents.com
Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Kristi Bush, LSW Dr. Zickeyous Byrd Shannon Dean Rebecca Hastings Christa Melnyk Hines Richard Dennis Dr. Jason Goodwin Kimberley Carter Spivey Lyman Woodfin Works of Wonder Therapy Cover Photography Lisa Smith www.studiopanache.net
Publisher Jason Watson jason@riverregionparents.com
Advertising Department (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 adservices@keepsharing.com or Text 334.328.5189
Ad Design Tim Welch
DeAnne
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River Region Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. River Region Parents is copyrighted 2026 by Keep Sharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in River Region 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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R I V E R R E G I O N PA R E N T S | P L AY E R S P O T L I G H T
SPORTS SPOTLIGHT
JEREMY GRIGGS HOOPER ACADEMY FOOTBALL SCHOOL/LEAGUE
SPORT
Hooper Academy
Varsity Football
GRADE
12th
POSITION
PARENTS
Wide Receiver
Corey & Teah Griggs
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I HOPE PEOPLE REMEMBER ME AS A LEADER WHO LEAVES IT ALL OUT THERE EVERY SINGLE TIME. I WOULD DO ANYTHING FOR ANY OF MY TEAMMATES.
J
”
eremy Griggs has learned that progress in football does not always show up right away on the scoreboard. The Hooper Academy senior plays wide receiver and safety, but his biggest growth has come on defense. Jeremy did not begin playing safety until his junior year, which meant learning to read coverages, anticipate where a quarterback might attack and recognize what was coming before the ball was thrown. That challenge fit a bigger lesson he and his teammates were learning together. “We haven’t had much success at the varsity level in football during my time here until this year,” Jeremy said.
River Region Parents I November 2026
“We’ve had to learn how to work together, play as a team, and outwork our opponents to start seeing results.” Coach Dusty Baker has watched Jeremy develop since seventh grade. He points to his work in the weight room, understanding of the game and a “motor that won’t shut off,” but says his leadership and coachability stand out just as much. “He has grown into an athlete that coaches dream about,” Baker said. Jeremy’s parents, Corey and Teah Griggs, have seen that development beyond football, too. “We’re proud of his willingness to compete, regardless of the circumstances,” they said. “He has also developed into someone his teammates look up to, both on and off the field.” When his time in a Hooper uniform ends, Jeremy hopes teammates remember someone they could count on. 6
“I hope people remember me as a leader who leaves it all out there every single time,” he said. “I would do anything for any of my teammates.” Faith is also central to the person Jeremy hopes to be. He wants to be remembered as someone who puts God first, and Baker says Jeremy’s dedication to grow closer to Jesus is what makes him proudest. “Life goes way beyond the field,” Baker said, “but the lessons we try to teach them will last a lifetime.”
VIEW ALL PAST PLAY BALL SPOTLIGHTS! www.riverregionparents.com
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Fall Family Campout
Santa Drop in Prattville
November 7-8 Alabama Nature Center, Millbrook Enjoy a night with your family under the stars with activities that include roasting marshmallows, a movie, a night hike, fishing and more! The kids will make their own glow stick lantern to take home! Guests need to bring their own camping supplies, and all camping will be Tent Only. The fee for this event will be a weekend pass rate of $5 per person. Activities and Campsite set up will begin at 2pm Saturday, campsites must be cleaned up and vacated by 9am Sunday. alabamawildlife.org
November 14 * 10am to 1:30pm YMCA Willis Bradford Branch Santa Drop 2026 is a FREE community Christmas event in Prattville! Watch Santa and the Grinch arrive by parachute, then enjoy food trucks, inflatables, local vendors, free photos with Santa, kids’ activities, giveaways and more. Guests are also encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to support the Autauga Christmas Team.
Gobble Wobble 5K Run/Walk
November 27 * 8am to 10:30am Cloverdale Road Park, Montgomery Join us for a lively, family‑friendly 5K that encourages our community to stay active, connect with neighbors, and kick off the holiday season with gratitude, movement, and fun. Registration FREE! www.montgomeryal.gov
Gather Montgomery
November 28 * 10am to 3pm Cramton Bowl, Montgomery Browse handmade crafts, artisan and homemade products, local farm goods, cottage bakery items, and seasonal holiday creations. Admission: Free
December 11-12 * 7 pm * MPAC Join us for an enchanting evening of dance, beautiful storytelling, and festive holiday spirit as our talented dancers and professional dance artists bring this beloved Christmas classic to life. $25 - $30, additional fees may apply. mpaconline.org/the-nutqracker
Downtown Wetumpka Open House
November 14 * 11 am until 4 pm Local downtown shops and boutiques feature exclusive deals, holiday merchandise, and seasonal specials. Cookie Hop: A festive event run by Main Street Wetumpka where participants can collect sweet treats and enjoy familyfriendly holiday activities around town.
Symphony Q. Presents The NutQracker
River Region Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”
December 4-6 @ Davis Theatre, Montgomery December 4 & 5 at 7 p.m. and December 5 & 6 at 2 p.m. “The Nutcracker,” choreographed by Stevan Grebel and set to music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, will thrill the audience with the prodigious dancing of the Youth Ballet Company and students from the school. With spectacular backdrops, scenery and a growing Christmas tree, this ballet is truly magical! alabamariverregionballet.com River Region Parents I November 2026
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The Temptations with Special Guest Ruban Studdard
November 25 * 8pm Montgomery Performing Arts Center Celebrating the 60th anniversary of their first #1 hit, “My Girl,” The Temptations launched their milestone celebration with a show-stopping appearance on the Wonder float at the 98th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. They followed with national TV appearances on The Today Show, The View, CNN, and other major programs, with more appearances planned throughout the year. Ticket Prices: $50 - $80, additional fees may apply. Visit mpaconline.org/the-temptations for tickets.
Elf The Musical
November 25, 2026 - December 27 Alabama Shakespeare Festival * Montgomery Embrace your inner elf with this magical, musical tale for all ages! Buddy the Elf journeys to the city to discover his true identity – and bring Christmas joy to everyone he meets. Unfortunately, his father may be at the top of Santa’s naughty list. Can Buddy help his new family rediscover the true meaning of Christmas? Inspired by the beloved hit film, this hilarious and heartwarming holiday musical is a gift for the whole family. Visit asf.net/elf-the-musical early for tickets. Many dates are sure to sell out!
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The Shoppes at EastChase Magical Christmas Parade
Friday, November 20 * 5 to 8pm Come rock around the tree with us!
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Matt Kemp Montgomery Christian School
“Teaching has always been about people,” Matt shares. As the middle school English Language Arts teacher at Montgomery Christian School, he has the privilege of helping students grow academically, personally, and spiritually. The middle school currently serves sixth and seventh grades, with eighth grade joining next academic year. This year, Matt teaches ELA, a creative writing elective for sixth and seventh graders, and seventh-grade Civics. Matt’s journey in education began 15 years ago, teaching college composition courses at AUM. Two mentors, Dr. Elizabeth Woodworth and Susan Barganier, helped lead him toward this career. What began with tutoring college students quickly grew into a love for teaching. As a self-proclaimed people person, Matt loves building relationships with students and learning alongside them. He wants his classroom to be a place where learning is relatable, engaging, and fun. Through discussion, group activities, team games, and movement, he encourages students to think critically and connect classroom concepts to the world around them. He believes education should extend beyond a single lesson or unit, helping students see how what they learn applies to their future.
River Region Parents I November 2026
“One of the greatest rewards of teaching is seeing students grow long after they leave the classroom.” Matt still remembers running into a former student at a local playhouse. Years earlier, the student had written an outstanding paper about baseball, and Matt remembered it so well that he still uses it as an example in class. The former student introduced Matt to his dad as one of his favorite English teachers. Today, he is a physical education teacher himself, and seeing him share his enthusiasm with a new generation of students makes Matt incredibly proud. Matt hopes his students remember his enthusiasm, his care for them, and the importance of teamwork, critical thinking, and communicating with love. Ultimately, his prayer is that his students continue growing in Christ as individuals. Whatever path they choose, he hopes they approach it with curiosity, kindness, and a desire to make a difference. Matt Kemp and his wife, Naomi, have been happily married for 15 years. They live in Montgomery with their two daughters, Isabelle, 8, and Juliette, 5.
Scan to Nominate a Teacher Today!
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DID YOU KNOW? Receiving the Flu and Pneumonia vaccines can help reduce illnesses, doctor visits, hospitalization, missed work, and missed school.
Hospitalization
Work
School
alabamapublichealth.gov/imm 11
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05.2024
Building a Culture Where Every Student Belongs When a child enters our doors each morning, academic growth is only part of the equation. True learning happens when a student feels safe, valued, and understood. In Montgomery Public Schools, our fundamental mission is to cultivate a culture where every single student feels seen, heard, and knows that they truly belong. Creating this environment requires moving beyond words into intentional action. Culture isn’t built top-down; it is created together alongside our students, teachers, and community.
River Region Parents I November 2026
At the building level, many of our schools have ambassadors. These scholars serve as the heart of our peer culture. These dedicated student leaders step up to welcome new classmates, promote empathy, and advocate for an inclusive, positive climate on their campuses. To carry these vital voices even further, we are proud to enter the second year of our Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC). Composed of 26 exceptional student leaders representing every high school across our district, this council acts as a direct bridge to district leadership. Through regular collaborative sessions, these 26 council members bring real feedback, fresh ideas, and solutions directly to my desk. Their candid perspectives ensure that our policies, programs, and district vision are informed by the lived experiences of the young people we serve.
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When young people know their experiences matter and their voices shape real outcomes, their engagement and confidence soar. By empowering our student leaders, from school-level ambassadors to our district advisory council, we are building stronger schools and laying the foundation for a stronger Montgomery. As we look ahead, we remain committed to listening, leading with empathy, and ensuring that every child who walks through our doors knows they have a home, a purpose, and a voice in Montgomery Public Schools.
Dr. Zickeyous Byrd is an experienced school superintendent, district administrator, principal, adjunct professor, and coach with expertise in school turnaround, curriculum design, teaching, and leadership development.
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MA Eagleaires Hold Fall Concert
On October 16, the Montgomery Academy Eagleaires (3rd and 4th grade chorus) performed their Fall Concert at the Montgomery Academy Hill Campus (Lower School) under the direction of Mr. Jackson Penso. The program featured a delightful variety of songs that showcased the students’ talent and enthusiasm for music.
Building Strong Foundations Through Play at Trinity
Trinity School’s K4 students brought the letter C to life during Construction Day! By connecting letters and sounds to a real-world theme, students strengthened early literacy skills and expanded their vocabulary through playful, meaningful learning. Experiences like Construction Day reflect Trinity’s approach to building a strong academic foundation while nurturing curiosity and creativity. Trinity offers three-day and five-day options for K3 and K4, with extended-day care available as an add-on.
Montgomery Catholic Marching Knights Earn Superior Rankings
After months of preparation, dedication, and long hours of rehearsals in the summer heat, the Montgomery Catholic Marching Knights concluded their competition season on a high note at the Little Big Horn Marching Festival this past weekend. The band, under the direction of Band Director Alex Johnson, earned straight superior rankings for its overall performance, along with superior rankings for Drum Major, Color Guard, and Percussion. These honors reflect the students’ commitment to excellence and the countless hours they have devoted to refining their musical and performance skills since the start of summer. Montgomery Catholic is proud of the Marching Knights’ accomplishments and the discipline and teamwork they demonstrated throughout the season. Their success at the festival serves as a fitting culmination to months of hard work and dedication.
ACA 8th Graders Explore American History in Philadelphia
Our ACA 8th graders had an unforgettable experience visiting Philadelphia during fall break! Students had the opportunity to explore the birthplace of our nation and learn firsthand about the people, places, and events that shaped American history. From historic landmarks to important lessons about our country’s founding, the trip brought classroom learning to life. It was a wonderful opportunity for our students to make memories, deepen their appreciation for our nation’s history, and experience learning beyond the classroom! River Region Parents I November 2026
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Saint James Celebrates Youth Sports
Saint James School held a special pep rally to celebrate the fall Youth Sports programs. Players and coaches from youth flag football, youth tackle football, middle school football, middle school cheer, and youth cheer were introduced and recognized by the school community. The pep rally included music from the Saint James Marching Trojans as well as performances from the middle school and youth cheerleaders. Youth Sports is an important part of the Saint James community and Trojan Athletics.
RCS Birthday Surprise
Mr. Ronnie Henderson’s kindergarten class gave Principal Pessoa a birthday surprise she’ll never forget: they turned one of her pictures into coloring sheets! I had no idea I was about to become a coloringbook celebrity. Their colorful creations were adorable, and the students were so proud of their artwork and creativity.
ECA’s 2026 Homecoming Queen Evangel Christian Academy has a new Homecoming Queen. Senior Kennedy Softley was crowned our 2026 Homecoming Queen by last year’s queen, Trinity Johnson. Our homecoming court was filled with young ladies who exemplify ECA’s values and standards. These girls are examples of leadership here at Evangel Christian.
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RCS Kindergarten Science Fun
Mr. Ronnie Henderson’s Kindergarten class had a hoot of a time during today’s science lesson! Our young scientists explored the difference between living and nonliving things and discussed what living things need in order to grow, survive, and thrive! Hoo! Hoo! Guess who? It’s an OWL! After learning more about these fascinating living creatures, the students put their creativity to work and made their very own owls using cupcake liners! Each owl turned out a little different, and absolutely adorable! We love seeing our kindergarteners learning, questioning, creating, and making connections between science and art. Another wonderful day of hands-on learning at Resurrection Catholic School! HOO is PROUD of these little scientists? WE ARE!
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MPS Students Explore Careers at College Fair
There’s nothing better than watching students discover just how far their hard work and talent can take them. At our Dual Enrollment College Fair, scholars explored college courses that give them a head start on their degree—saving time and money while still in high school. See how your student can jumpstart their future at https://www. mps.k12.al.us/page/dual-enrollment.
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Evangel Christian Academy Inducts New BOLD Ambassadors
T.E.A. Christian Academy’s Scholar of the Month
Recently, the newest B.O.L.D. Ambassadors were inducted, sophomore Jamari Robinson gave the message and our Praise Team led the Upper School in song during the Fall Day of Praise! B.O.L.D. stands for Boys Only Leadership Development, and is an organization within the school that focuses on fostering Christian leadership within our students through community service. Students in B.O.L.D. are chosen for being excellent examples of leaders at ECA. The sister program, G.O.L.D, had new inductees earlier in the year and have already begun serving the school body.
T.E.A. Christian Academy is proud to recognize Landrieona Dixon-Houghton, 8th Grade, C. Williams’ Class, as our Scholar of the Month! Landrieona continues to demonstrate the character, focus, leadership, and commitment to excellence that we strive to develop in every scholar. We invite our parents, Board Members, and community stakeholders to join us in celebrating this outstanding achievement. At T.E.A. Christian Academy, we believe that great scholars build a brighter tomorrow—because our scholars matter!
Montgomery Academy Kindergarteners Visit Fire Station
Montgomery Academy Kindergarteners recently visited the fire station on Maxwell Air Force Base for their first adventure outside the school walls; nothing beats that first field trip! Maxwell’s fire station is unique because they are equipped to fight both structural fires and airplane fires. Students had an aMAzing time learning all about fire stations, fire safety, having a turn at the fire hose, and of course, meeting Sparky!
Schedule your free exam!
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Trinity Students Develop Their Creative Writing Skills
Trinity Upper School students strengthened their storytelling skills during the Robert McGowin Creative Writing Workshop, led by Mr. McGowin and Audrey Atkins, an award-winning freelance writer, editor, and writing coach based in Birmingham. The instructors shared writing tips and techniques, guiding students as they explored their creativity and applied new skills through short-story writing. The workshop gave students an opportunity to learn from experienced writers while developing their own voices and confidence as storytellers.
ACA 9th Graders Explore Boston Over Fall Break
Our ACA 9th graders enjoyed an unforgettable trip to Boston over Fall Break! Students had the opportunity to explore the city’s rich history, visit numerous historical landmarks, and experience some of the sights that make Boston so special. One of the highlights of the trip was visiting the iconic Fenway Park, home of the Boston Red Sox! From learning about our nation’s history to making lasting memories with classmates, this trip was filled with fun, fellowship, and unforgettable experiences!
Saint James Seniors and Kindergarten Buddies Enjoy a Day at the Zoo
On Wednesday, October 7th, Saint James School seniors and their kindergarten buddies took a walk on the wild side during their annual trip to the Montgomery Zoo. The beloved tradition pairs the oldest and youngest Trojans for a day filled with laughter and learning. At the zoo, buddies enjoyed spotting various animals, feeding the giraffes, playing on the playground, and riding the iconic zoo train. Seniors helped guide their buddies through each exhibit, modeling the Trojan Core Values of Character, Commitment, Courage, and Community. “The senior-kindergarten buddy program is one of our most cherished Saint James traditions,” said Elementary School Principal, Andrea Harris. “It’s a reminder of how strong our sense of community is across every grade level.” The senior-kindergarten buddy program is one of many ways Saint James School fosters connection and community across grade levels, helping students of all ages live out what it means to be a Trojan. The tradition began in the fall of 1997 and continues to be one of the most anticipated milestones for students and families. Earlier this fall, the two classes met for the first time during the annual Buddy Reveal, when seniors placed one of their shoes in a large pile, each labeled with the name of a kindergartner. One by one, the youngest Trojans searched for their name and matched the shoe with its owner as the new buddies met for the first time.
TEA Christian Academy Beginning of Year Assessment
Our scholars participated in their B.O.Y. (Beginning of the Year) Assessments August 31-September 3. As we continue moving forward in our NEW DIRECTION, these assessments represent an important part of our commitment to academic excellence, intentional instruction, and meeting every scholar exactly where they are. The Beginning of the Year Assessment is not simply about a score. The information gathered will help our faculty and leadership team identify each scholar’s current academic strengths, determine areas where additional support or intervention may be needed, and establish a clear starting point for measuring growth throughout the school year. At T.E.A., we believe that data should drive instruction—not define a child. Every scholar enters our doors with different strengths, experiences, talents, and opportunities for growth. These assessments help us develop an academic roadmap that allows us to teach with greater purpose and provide the individualized support our scholars deserve. We don’t expect perfection. We expect effort. We expect you to focus. We expect you to persevere. And most importantly, we expect you to believe in yourself! Wherever the scholars begin, our goal is to help them GROW, ACHIEVE, and SOAR higher throughout this school year. River Region Parents I November 2026
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Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School
Rooted in Faith ECA Celebrates Homecoming
Growing in Excellence
Evangel Christian Academy’s Homecoming celebration was a blast! Our theme was a Beach Bash, so students got to dress up in many different beach related costumes throughout the week. Our students got creative with their outfits, and had a lot of fun. We enjoyed the creativity and collaboration so many classes showed.
This is Catholic. Visit montgomerycatholic.org to apply, schedule a campus tour, and to learn more about all Montgomery Catholic has to offer your family!
montgomerycatholic.org Macon East Families Share Joy During Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
Macon East Academy families came together in a heartfelt way during Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, generously donating coloring books to brighten the days of children undergoing treatment. These thoughtful gifts were delivered by Macon East student Emma Allshouse, who proudly carried the donations to the oncology unit where she receives care. 19
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Creighton University Visits RCS Campus
What a special day at Resurrection Catholic School! We were delighted to welcome students from Creighton University to our campus! They spent time connecting with our students and teachers, enjoyed lunch with us, and joined our school community for Mass! Their visit gave us a wonderful opportunity to learn from one another and share the spirit of Resurrection! THANK YOU, Creighton University, for spending the day with us. We loved having you here!
Success Unlimited Academy Students Celebrate Johnny Appleseed Day
On September 24th, K-5 through third grade students observed Johnny Appleseed’s Birthday with a fun morning filled with learning, tasting, and celebrating all things APPLE!!! Students were encouraged to dress up as Johnny Appleseed or wear their favorite apple –themed attire. Throughout the week leading up to this day, students enjoyed several fun, hands-on activities including taste contests. Students voted on their favorite apple products and tried everything from the various types of apples to apple products such as juices, apple pie, apple waffles, apple fritters, and homemade applesauce. Principal Lisa Dunlap said, “We love creating special opportunities that bring history to life for our students! Learning is always a little sweeter when you can taste it, too! “What an engaging way to help students learn about the history of the real John Chapman, a pioneer nurseryman, and the legend that grew out of his life’s vocation.
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CHS Culinary Arts Mock Wedding Reception
George Washington Carver High School Culinary Arts hosted a mock wedding reception. Students got the opportunity to experience real-life preparing and serving for a modern-day wedding.
Trinity Glow Day Fun
School’s second graders enjoyed a bright approach to learning during Glow Day, combining hands-on activities with lessons in reading, writing, math, and science. Students explored shades of meaning, created alien creatures and wrote about them, practiced sequencing, and strengthened vocabulary through a root-word ring toss. “Dice in the Dark” brought graphing to life, while lessons on how glow sticks work and bioluminescent creatures sparked scientific curiosity. The day made learning memorable while reinforcing skills across subjects. 21
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City As Our School Program at MA
Through Montgomery Academy’s City as Our School program, Upper School students explore the cultural institutions, organizations, and businesses that help our community thrive. This year, each grade ventured off campus for a unique learning experience in Montgomery. Seniors visited the Montgomery Zoo, Juniors explored the Equal Justice Initiative’s Legacy Museum, Sophomores toured the Scott & Zelda Fitzgerald Museum, and Freshmen visited Baptist South. These experiences offered students opportunities to learn more about their city, connect with their community, and gain a deeper appreciation for the people and places that make Montgomery unique!
ACA Celebrates Flag Football Senior Night
Alabama Christian Academy recently celebrated Senior Night for our girls’ flag football team, honoring four outstanding seniors! As ACA continues its second year of flag football, we are excited to see this program grow and the opportunities it provides for our student-athletes. These four seniors have played a special role in helping build the foundation of this new program. We are proud of their hard work, dedication, and leadership both on and off the field. Congratulations to our seniors and thank you for being part of ACA flag football history!
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Montgomery Catholic’s K5 Buddies Build Lasting Friendships
Saint James Holds “Meet the Majors” Career Exploration Series
Saint James School’s Office of College Advising introduced a new career exploration series for students in grades 8-12 with a special assembly called “Meet the Majors.” This series connects students with professionals in specific fields and information about academic and career paths. The first in a planned series, this assembly featured professionals from the business world who discussed their educational experiences, college majors, internships, and career journeys. Representing fields of finance, accounting, business administration, and entrepreneurship and management, the speakers gave firsthand feedback about how academic interests and strengths can translate into career opportunities. Through initiatives like “Meet the Majors,” the Office of College Advising helps provide students with opportunities to explore interests and how to consider pathways after high school. As a college preparatory school, Saint James is committed to continuing to prepare students for lives of responsibility, service, and achievement.
One of Montgomery Catholic’s sweetest traditions brings together our oldest and youngest students through the K5 Buddy program! Each High School Senior is paired with a Kindergarten student at either our Holy Spirit or St. Bede campus, creating opportunities to build friendships, share experiences, and make lasting memories throughout the school year. So far this year, our Seniors and K5 Buddies have enjoyed two special gatherings. During their first meeting, Seniors had the opportunity to get to know their Kindergarten buddies and begin building relationships. Most recently, the group spent a fall morning reading seasonal books, decorating pumpkins, enjoying snacks, and playing with sidewalk chalk. Through these special moments, our students are reminded of the importance of connection, kindness, and community. Whether serving others, growing in faith, or simply sharing a morning of fun, the K5 Buddy program reflects the family spirit that makes Montgomery Catholic so special. We look forward to many more memories between our oldest and some of our youngest Knights throughout the year!
Dynam te Magic and Balloons
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Saint James Celebrates Military Appreciation Night
On Friday, October 2nd, Saint James School celebrated Military Appreciation Night as part of the school’s matchup against Tallassee. Saint James School is honored to have more than 35 military families, representing both the United States and its international allies, as part of the Trojan family this year. The evening began with a special tailgate for military members and their families in the Community Garden. Guests enjoyed BBQ, a bounce house, and face paint, along with complimentary game tickets in recognition of their service. Pre-game festivities included an on-field recognition of all U.S. and international military families in the Saint James community. Freshman Faith Anelu performed America the Beautiful, followed by an invocation led by cheerleader Mary Jane Campbell. Among those presented on the field was the past board of Trustees Chairman, Retired Lieutenant Colonel Dex McCain, who actively served for 27 years in the United States Air Force before retiring in 2019. Today, he continues to serve at Maxwell Air Force Base as the Department Chair for Leadership and Ethics for the Air Force Global College of Professional Military Education. Saint James was honored to once again welcome Air Force ROTC Detachment 19 from Alabama State University to present the colors for the national anthem, performed by the Saint James School Marching Trojans and Trinity Wildcat Band. The Captains for the Saint James Trojans were seniors Michael Hassell, Knox Moody, Will Steinwinder, and Landyn Whigham. Joining the captains on the field were four special Honorary Captains, including: Major General Parker Wright who recently retired after 30 years of service in the US Air Force. He is the father of senior football player Henry Wright. Colonel Billy Whigham has served in the US Army for 33 years He is the father of senior football player Landyn Whigham. Captain Sebastiannn van Giessel of the Royal Netherlands Air Force, where he has served for 26 years. He is father of senior football player Justin Van Giessel. Chief Master Sergeant Darren Green, retired, who served in the US Air Force for 20 years. He is the father of Marching Trojans Drum Major Devany Green. In further recognition of the sacrifices and dedication of our military families, the Saint James football team players added an American flag decal on their helmets.The student section, known as the War Zone, was dressed out in red, white, and blue, to celebrate.
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Floyd and Southlawn City Champions in Football
Congratulations to our city champions in flag and tackle football, Floyd Middle Magnet and Southlawn Middle School! We are incredibly proud of all of our scholar-athletes who gave it their all on the field during the season!
Macon East Academy Celebrates a Week of Homecoming Traditions
Homecoming Week at Macon East Academy is always filled with spirit and community pride. Students enjoyed themed dress up days, and the boys took part in the traditional volleyball tournament. On Friday, lower and upper school students gathered for tailgating, sharing great food and fellowship before the afternoon festivities. The excitement continued with the much anticipated Homecoming Parade, where many students rode the route, waving to classmates and tossing goodies. This year’s Homecoming Court included: 7th Grade: Marlie Hopson 8th Grade: Ava Smelcer 9th Grade: Ella Loughridge 10th Grade: Bella Ann Spires and Sophie Clark 11th Grade: Campbell Loughridge, Macie Lyn Duncan, and Avery Kyser 12th Grade: Megan Hardy, Addie Longcrier, Gracie Strickland, and Madison Vocino. During halftime ceremonies, the court was presented on the field, and Miss Addie Longcrier was crowned the 2026 Homecoming Queen.
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RCS Embraces Community Partnership
THIS is what community partnership looks like! I had the opportunity to make a little surprise visit to the CHANGE Community Resource Center to check on one of my Resurrection Catholic School students who participates in the Free Tutoring & Mentoring Program, and I left there smiling from ear to ear! But I also have to give a huge shout-out to Shatara S. Clark and Ashley Monique Robinson! These two amazing ladies are doing a phenomenal job pouring into our young people through tutoring, mentoring, encouragement, life skills, and simply being positive adults who care about their success! Programs like this matter! When schools, families, mentors, and community organizations work together, our children benefit, and I was able to see that firsthand today! Thank you, Shatara and Ashley, for the time, energy, patience, and love you are investing in our children. Your work is making a difference, and I am so proud to support what you are doing! It truly takes a village, and I’m grateful for ours!
Math Night at Bear
Bear Exploration Center’s annual Math Night transformed the classrooms into an energetic hub of collaborative learning, bringing parents and students together for an evening of interactive problemsolving. Families navigated through a series of hands-on stations tailored to different grade levels—from building geometric 3D structures with pipe cleaners and straws to testing probability strategies in fun dice games and solving real-world budgeting challenges. Each activity was designed so parents could work shoulder-toshoulder with their children, giving adults a firsthand look at math concepts while reinforcing critical thinking in a playful, low-pressure environment.
Volunteers Make a Difference at Success Unlimited Academy
At Success Unlimited Academy we are fortunate to have wonderful parent volunteers who make a difference in the lives of our students and their families. One such volunteer is Mrs. Jenny Grace who is always willing to lend a helping hand. She has helped out with t-shirt sales and distribution, assembling information packets for prospective families, helping set up and take down school art shows, assisting teachers, and clothes closet maintenance. Mrs. Grace is seen organizing and hanging gently used school uniforms which have been donated by families as their children outgrow them or graduate. This provides a great resource for new families, families with multiple children, and students who may need a change of clothes while at school. Jenny actually takes the uniforms home and will wash and mend them as well as working on any stains that might come out. It’s a big job and one that is constantly in need of tending. Much like clothes on the racks of a department store, these clothes have to be re-hung and reorganized periodically. Her son, Hudson Grace, who has been a student at Success since the third grade and is now a 7th grader, also helps mom out. We are so grateful for Jenny Grace and her service with a smile at Success!
Montgomery Police Department Visits RCS
We had a wonderful SURPRISE visit from Corporal Pettway and Sgt. Dixon of the Montgomery Police Department! They spent time talking with our students and reminding them that police officers are their friends. They are people you can turn to for help. They even promised to stop by regularly to check on us and encourage everyone to keep making good choices! At Resurrection Catholic School, we value the relationships that help our students feel connected, supported and safe. THANK YOU, Corporal Pettway and Sgt. Dixon, for taking the time to get to know our school family. We look forward to seeing you again soon! River Region Parents I November 2026
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Congratulations to Head Volleyball Coach at G.W.C. High School
Congratulations to Coach Virginia Franklin on her incredible 550th career win as head volleyball coach of George Washington Carver High School. Your dedication, leadership, and passion is greatly appreciated.
Trinity Senior Rissie Price Completes IRONMAN Chattanooga
Trinity School senior Rissie Price demonstrated remarkable perseverance by completing IRONMAN Chattanooga on September 27. At just 18 years old, Rissie was among the youngest competitors to finish the demanding 140.6-mile course. After nearly a year of training, Rissie competed alongside her father, completing a 2.4mile swim in the Tennessee River, a 112-mile bike ride, and a 26.2-mile run. She was one of only 24 female finishers in the 18–24 age group. Her accomplishment reflects extraordinary discipline, determination, and hard work, made even more meaningful by sharing the experience with her dad.
Vaughn Road Elementary Students Win Fair Tickets
Surprise! Third graders at Vaughn Road Elementary just found out that keeping perfect attendance all September earned them tickets to the Alabama National Fair. Through our districtwide “Be Present. Be Prepared. Be Productive. Every Day Counts.” campaign, over 700 scholars were rewarded for showing up every day. We are so grateful to DA Oliver, Attorney Stuart Vance, and County Commissioner Carmen Moore Zeigler for partnering with us to celebrate student dedication! 27
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RR Academy Students Enjoy 4-H Day
ACA First Graders Enjoy a Fun Day at the Pumpkin Patch
Our River Otters had a great opportunity to learn about something that matters far beyond the classroom – integrity and healthy decision-making! Students enjoyed an engaging lesson with Angela Kelly, Urban Regional 4-H Extension Agent through Alabama A&M University. They created Integrity Wheels and worked through real-life scenarios focused on honesty, responsibility, respect, and good judgment. A special thank-you to Ms. Handey, Mrs. Payton, and Ms. McCord for helping make this experience possible.
ACA’s first graders enjoyed a fun-filled fall adventure with a trip to the pumpkin patch! Students had a wonderful time exploring, picking out pumpkins, and making sweet memories with their classmates. The trip was a perfect way to celebrate the fall season while enjoying time together outside the classroom. It was a day full of smiles, laughter, and pumpkin patch fun!
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Montgomery Academy Celebrates Memorable Homecoming
Homecoming 2026 was one to remember at The Montgomery Academy! With a hurricane approaching the Gulf Coast, this year’s celebration took an unexpected turn as the Homecoming football game against Pike Liberal Arts and the Homecoming Court presentation were moved to Thursday evening. Despite the change in plans, Eagle spirit was on full display throughout the festivities. A highlight of Thursday evening was the crowning of Bennett Britt as the 2026 Homecoming Queen by last year’s queen, Lucy Nelson ’26. Friday’s celebrations continued before the rain arrived, with spirited pep rallies on both campuses, a Middle School door-decorating contest, and the annual Homecoming parade from the Vaughn Road Campus to the Hill Campus. Congratulations to the members of the 2026 Montgomery Academy Homecoming Court! 9th Grade: Lucy Hubbard and Jane Frances Waits 10th Grade: Kathleen Johnston and Garland Thomas 11th Grade: Alyssa Kaplan and Ella Gaines Thomas 12th Grade: Bennett Britt, Vivian Locascio, Harper Thomas, and Avery Williford River Region Parents I November 2026
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As Pike Road welcomes the cooler temperatures of November, it is a natural time to reflect on the many people who make Pike Road Schools a special place to learn, work, and grow. Last month, our Homecoming celebrations brought students, staff, families, and community members together for a week of festivities. Events like these highlight the strong connections that support our schools throughout the year. I am especially grateful for our students, whose individual talents, interests, and perspectives contribute to our classrooms, programs, teams, and community. From our youngest Patriots cheer-
ing along the parade route to our high school students who are participating in the homecoming fun and preparing for graduation, each student is an important part of what makes our district unique. Our families also play an important role in student success. Their involvement, encouragement, and support strengthen the connection between home and school and help create the conditions for our school system to succeed and for our students’ academic achievement. We are fortunate to have a community that consistently supports Pike Road Schools. Community leaders, local organizations, and residents invest their time and resources in our students and take an active interest in their academic, creative, and athletic accomplishments. I am equally grateful for our teachers, administrators, and staff, who
work each day to provide students with meaningful learning opportunities and supportive environments. Their work extends well beyond the classroom, requiring flexibility, patience, and a commitment to meeting the needs of every student. A successful school system depends on the collective efforts of students, families, educators, and the community. I appreciate the role each of these groups plays in Pike Road Schools, and I am proud of what we continue to accomplish together.
Dr. Jason Goodwin is the Superintendent of Pike Road Schools and has dedicated his career to serving students as a teacher, coach, principal, and district leader. He believes great schools are built on strong relationships, high expectations, and a shared commitment to excellence, with every decision focused on what is best for students.
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A Taste of History (Cookies) at Pike Road Schools
Mrs. Smalley’s classes wrapped up the first quarter with a sweet and educational lesson! Earlier in the year, students learned about Alabama’s Native American tribes, including the ways some Cherokee people began adopting practices introduced by Europeans. When another social studies project gave students the opportunity to explore the Colonial Regions, their teacher found the perfect opportunity to bring those lessons together. When students correctly remembered that the Cherokee had begun adopting European practices, Mrs. Smalley revealed the Cherokee Cornmeal Cookie recipe. Students made the cookies completely from scratch, learning firsthand that baking begins with simple ingredients. For many students, even seeing butter used as an ingredient was a new experience. The cookies were baked right in the classroom using a countertop convection oven/air fryer before everyone got to enjoy the cookies!
PRES Celebrates APT Teacher of the Month
Some teachers make an impact through the lessons they teach. Others make an impact simply by making sure every student knows they matter. For Pike Road Elementary School teacher Misty Trussell, those two things go hand in hand. Day after day, Misty makes time for students—not just in her classroom, but in the small moments that can make a big difference. She checks in, listens, encourages, celebrates successes, and takes the time to connect with students as individuals. Whether she is working with a student who needs an extra bit of encouragement or celebrating a student’s latest accomplishment, she has a way of making each child feel noticed and valued. That commitment to students is one of the many reasons we are so proud to celebrate Misty as Alabama Public Television’s September Teacher of the Month. While this recognition shines a well-deserved spotlight on Misty, her greatest impact happens every day at PRES—one student, one conversation, and one meaningful moment at a time.
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Pike Road Cheer Program Sweeps Regionals
The Pike Road Cheer Program has a LOT to celebrate! All three Pike Road teams, Junior High, Junior Varsity, and Varsity, competed at regionals in October, and all three teams took 1st Place and earned bids to the State Competition in November! These results are a testament to the hard work, dedication, and teamwork these athletes and coaches have put in throughout the season. Congratulations to our Junior High, Junior Varsity, and Varsity Cheerleaders! We are incredibly proud of all three teams and can’t wait to cheer you on at State!
Patriot Marching Band Shines at Two Competitions
It has been a busy and successful season for the Patriot Marching Band! They competed in two marching band contests in the same day for the first time, performing at the Marbury Camellia Marching Band Festival and the Central-Phenix Invitational Marching Band Festival. The Patriots earned straight superior ratings at both competitions, receiving the highest possible rating in Majorettes, Colorguard, Drum Majors, Percussion, and Band. At Central-Phenix, the Patriot Marching Band also earned Best in Class Colorguard and Best in Class Drum Majors, while placing second overall among 19 competing bands. The band finished with an impressive overall score of 94.3, just 0.4 points behind first place. The Colorguard earned the highest score of the day in its category with a 96, while the Drum Majors earned an outstanding 99.5. Beyond the scores and awards, the two competitions provided the band with valuable feedback from a panel of judges, giving students and directors meaningful insight to carry forward as they continue their season.
Teachers Still Learning and Growing at Pike Road Middle
Lions Club Donations to PRS
Pike Road Schools is grateful to the Lions Club for its continued commitment to the safety and well-being of our students! During its October meeting, the Lions Club donated 30 diabetic emergency kits to PRS. The kits, which include water, juice, peanut butter crackers, Welch’s fruit snacks, and Goldfish, will be placed in classrooms serving students with diabetes, helping ensure supplies are readily available when needed. River Region Parents I November 2026
PRMS Special Education Teachers Meredith Mitchell and Jayla Frazier recently attended the SPDG Transition Conference. They are excited to bring back new ideas, strategies, and resources to help their students prepare for life after high school. Their goal is to continue building meaningful opportunities that support students in developing the skills, confidence, and independence they need for their future beyond the classroom.
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Macon East Academy Goes Gold for Childhood Cancer Awareness
Macon East Academy proudly joined the national Go Gold movement in recognition of Childhood Cancer Awareness Month. Students, faculty, and families wore gold to honor the brave children and families who have faced the challenges of childhood cancer with strength and resilience. This day holds special meaning for our school community as we celebrate Emma Allshouse, a Macon East student who courageously battled cancer — and won. Emma’s determination, courage, and joyful spirit continue to inspire everyone who knows her. Our Knights wore gold for Emma, for every fighter, for every survivor, and in remembrance of those who fought with incredible bravery. No child should ever face this journey alone, and we are grateful for the unity and compassion shown by our Macon East family. We celebrate Emma’s victory and the hope her story brings to others.
Academy of Craft Training Welcomes Inaugural Class at PRHS
Pike Road High School is proud to be part of the inaugural class at the Academy of Craft Training, where 14 PRHS students are gaining hands-on experience and preparing for careers in high-demand skilled trades. Students are participating in one of four career pathways: Commercial Electrical, Industrial Metal Fabrication, Commercial Construction, or HVACR Mechanical Systems. The Academy recently celebrated its ribbon-cutting, marking an exciting milestone for these students as they begin developing valuable skills and exploring opportunities beyond high school. We’re excited to watch our inaugural class learn, grow, and build a foundation for their futures!
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As we turn the page to November and the holiday season draws near, I am continuously reminded of how blessed we are to live and learn in Autauga County. November is naturally a season of reflection and gratitude, and as I look around our school system, I have so much to be thankful for. First and foremost, I want to recognize our incredible teachers. Day in and day out, they are in the classrooms pouring their energy into equipping our students with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed. Teaching is hard work, but walking through our schools, you see educators who are
River Region Parents I November 2026
deeply committed to making learning engaging, challenging, and meaningful. Their dedication is the backbone of everything we accomplish. We are also deeply grateful for our community. Whether it’s parents volunteering, local partners stepping up, or neighbors filling the stands, the level of community engagement across our district is second to none. Our schools are strongest when our community is actively involved, and your continued support makes a lasting impact on our kids every single day. On the field and court, November is an exciting time for Autauga County athletics. I want to give a massive shoutout to our student-athletes who are excelling in the postseason! Their hard work, discipline, and sportsmanship represent our district with tremendous pride. To all the coaches, parents, and fans supporting
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them on these postseason runs—thank you for bringing that electric energy every step of the way. As we head toward Thanksgiving and look at the calendar, we know the end of the semester is fast approaching. These next few weeks will fly by, but now is not the time to coast. I encourage all of our students and staff to push hard through the finish line of this semester. Let’s stay focused, keep our standards high, and finish these last few weeks strong. Thank you for your ongoing partnership, your commitment to our children, and your pride in Autauga County Schools. I hope your family enjoys a wonderful, restful Thanksgiving season together.
Lyman Woodfin is a 18-year veteran of the school system having served as a classroom teacher, coach, and school administrator. He is married to Staci and they have five children who attend school in the district.
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PIS Fall Festival
PIS Fifth Grade Visits STARBASE
Prattville Intermediate School hosted its annual Fall Festival on September 25, bringing families together for an evening of fun. Families enjoyed games, food, inflatables, and the chance to dunk Mr. Bowman in the dunk tank! The event had an amazing turnout, and it was wonderful to see our PIS families making memories and enjoying time together.
In September, Prattville Intermediate School’s fifth graders traveled to STARBASE Maxwell for an exciting week of hands-on STEAM activities. Students had a wonderful time exploring, learning, and engaging in activities that encouraged creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork. STARBASE is always a favorite experience for our students, providing opportunities to learn beyond the classroom while having fun!
PIS 25-Mile Squad Members
Emory and Liliana are the first two members of the 2026–2027 25 Mile Squad! Congratulations to these ladies on reaching this milestone! During P.E., students at Prattville Intermediate have the opportunity to work toward joining the 25-Mile Squad by choosing to run instead of participating in the scheduled activity. The P.E. coaches track each student’s progress, and students who reach 25 miles or more receive a special T-shirt and award to celebrate their achievement. This program encourages students to stay active, set goals, and take pride in their accomplishments!
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We are proud to announce we have six schools in the candidacy phase of our International Baccalaureate (IB) program: Coosada Elementary, Airport Road Intermediate, Millbrook Middle, Wetumpka Elementary, Wetumpka Middle, and The EDGE! Limited openings will be available at each school, and applications will be available in January. Students from both inside and outside Elmore County may apply. Students who live outside the county will be required to pay tuition. Students participating in IB will receive instruction in all four core academic areas along with PE, fine arts, and language acquisition. Our goal is to develop students who are globally minded, thoughtful learners, and responsible custodians of our planet. The EDGE is also in the candidacy phase for the IB Career-related Programme (CP), a unique framework that combines academic rigor with a career-related study
River Region Parents I November 2026
of the student’s choosing. The program will begin in the 2027-28 school year. Elmore County continues to set the standard for innovative STEM education in Alabama. Holtville Middle School has made history as the first school in Central Alabama to earn national STEM certification through Cognia, recognizing its commitment to providing students with engaging, hands-on learning experiences in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Building on this achievement, we are working toward STEM certification for all middle schools across the district. This initiative reflects our commitment to preparing students for future academic and career opportunities by equipping them with the knowledge, skills, and confidence needed to succeed in an increasingly technology-driven world. We are also breaking new ground in computer science education by integrating robotics into instruction to teach computer science standards through hands-on applications. By allowing students to explore coding, problem-solving, critical thinking, and engineering concepts through robotics, we
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are transforming learning into an interactive experience that connects classroom instruction to real-world challenges. With Thanksgiving approaching, I have many reasons to be thankful. I am thankful for the parents who entrust us with their children daily and communicate to them their high expectations and the value of education. I am thankful for students who work hard in the classroom and participate in extracurricular activities that help them grow personally and equip them with skills to be better students and future workers. I am thankful for the community spirit that is evident throughout the district. The support of local businesses, churches, and other organizations is a tremendous benefit to our schools. Finally, I am thankful for our employees who contribute in many ways to ensure that we fulfill our purpose.
Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.
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Radio Broadcast Features ECTC Director and Students
Elmore County Technical Center Director, Emilie Johnson (far right), was featured on the “Under The Lights” radio broadcast with Doug Amos (center) and ECEDA Executive Director, Richie Beyer (second from left) alongside 2 ECTC students, Holtville’s Rhett Owens (far left) and Stanhope Elmore’s Lily Wilson (second from right). The student spoke about their experiences at ECTC and why they chose career and technical education as their high school course options.
Dolly Day at Eclectic Elementary
On September 25, the Eclectic Elementary School staff surprised students with a fun 9-to-5 Dolly Partonthemed dress-up day in recognition of Dolly’s generosity, kindness, and commitment to education. Just like Dolly, our teachers are everyday superstars. Their encouragement, dedication, and care help EEs students grow, learn, and shine brighter each day.
ECTC Students Enrolled at Central Alabama Community College
Two students from Elmore County Schools class of 2026 are currently enrolled in the CentrAL FAME program at Central Alabama Community College. Will Martin, a WHS graduate is employed at Premier Tech, and Kelan Kimbro, an HHS graduate, is employed at Coca-Cola UNITED. Both are pursuing their Industrial Automation Technician degrees with CACC while putting their skills to work on the job each week in this apprenticeship-style program.
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Eclectic Elementary Recognizes Staff of the Year
Eclectic Elementary School recently recognized two outstanding staff members for their dedication and service to our students and school community. Mrs. Janene Davis, a first-grade teacher, was recently selected as Eclectic Elementary School’s Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Davis embodies the heart of exceptional teaching through her unwavering commitment to student learning, her passion for education, and the care she shows each day. The positive impact she makes on her students and colleagues is immeasurable, making her truly deserving of this honor. Mrs. Shea Callins was selected as Support Staff of the Year. Mrs. Shea makes our school a better place simply by being here. Her hard work, dependability, willingness to help, and dedication to both students and staff are evident in all that she does. Her contributions do not go unnoticed, and we are grateful for the difference she makes every day.
EES and ECHS Team Readers
The ECHS football team recently spent time with Eclectic Elementary students, sharing their love of reading and serving as positive role models. Through one-on-one reading sessions and meaningful conversations, the student-athletes helped encourage literacy while building connections with younger Panthers. It was a great opportunity to showcase leadership, school pride, and the importance of reading both on and off the field. 39
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When the Unthinkable Almost Went Live The Defense Department planned to livestream a military execution on December 3rd. This week, the president called it off. If you are a parent, I would like for you to sit with that for a minute. We came so close to broadcasting an execution to our children. Here is what almost really happened…a livestream at the time of the execution. Clips would have then been cut and reposted within seconds. Reaction videos would have followed. Group chats would have passed it around. Do you know how many elementary and middle school kids have devices? They could have all potentially watched. Some kids would have looked out of curiosity. Many more would have stumbled across it in an autoplay, their feed, or a friend’s phone. Hearing about something hard is not the same as watching it. A 2024 study in PNAS by Alison Holman, Roxane Cohen Silver, and colleagues found that exposure to graphic images of war and terror was linked to more distress than the sheer amount of news people consumed. What a person sees matters, not just how long they watch. Children and teens are still building the brain systems that regulate fear and judge risk, and they have less life experience to place what they see. It is reasonable to assume they are at least as vulnerable. River Region Parents I November 2026
You also cannot unsee it once you have seen it. Some kids would have had intrusive images, nightmares, or trouble sleeping. Others would have become preoccupied or quietly more anxious. Repeated viewing can make danger feel closer than it is. And I can promise you that nothing about a live execution helps to make our children feel safer in the world. The plan was announced, and it seems nobody in the room asked what it would do to children. Then people spoke up. Republican senators. The vice president. Seventy-two retired generals and admirals. Religious leaders. Child advocates. Parents. Professionals. Within days, the president reversed the decision. A plan drawn up without a single thought for kids was stopped because people insisted on being part of a conversation they were never invited into. Speaking up works. I know it can feel like we are yelling into a void on this stuff…but sometimes it actually works. And it is worth it. You do not need a title or a platform. You simply need to pay attention and say the thing out loud when something is wrong.
What can parents do? The execution is still scheduled for December 3rd, and your kids will hear about it. If it is recorded, we know it will circulate quickly. Be ready to have the hard conversation. Also, I fully believe 40
someone is already drawing up the next plan nobody warned families about. So use the time you have. Talk now, before it is trending. Start by asking, not telling: “What have you heard about this?” Listen before you correct. Match the conversation to the age. Little ones need reassurance and a news-free environment. Teens can handle facts, along with an honest explanation of why curiosity is normal. Always give them an exit plan, and say it plainly: “If something like this shows up, you don’t have to watch. Close it, come tell me, and you won’t be in trouble.” Kids who fear punishment hide what they have seen. It is not a bad idea to tighten the settings. Turn off autoplay, enable restricted or sensitive-content filters, and keep phones out of bedrooms overnight, when anxious thoughts hit hardest. We cannot scrub the internet clean. But we can be the first voice our kids hear, and the calmest one. This week proved that voice matters in rooms we never enter. Let us keep using it.
Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.
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Baptist Health has once again been named to the Forbes list of America’s Best-In-State Employers—a recognition that celebrates workplaces where people feel valued, supported and empowered. This honor belongs to our incredible team members whose compassion, dedication and expertise make Baptist Health a place where both employees and patients thrive. When our people are at their best, so is the care we provide. Because great care begins with a great workplace.
BaptistFirst.org
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River Region Parents I November 2026
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Thanksgiving always reminds me to reflect on what I’m grateful for. Health, family, a warm home—yes, all those things. But as a parent, my mind often wanders to a slightly different kind of gratitude list. You know—the dream kind, where reality takes a backseat to what I secretly wish for.
GRATITUDE: We’re healthy, heading out the door together, and alive in the chaos. Those frantic, messy mornings are proof that life is busy, loud, and full.
Laundry That Folds Itself The Dishwasher of My Dreams
DREAM: A closet of perfectly folded clothes, all matched and organized.
DREAM: An appliance that washes, dries, and magically puts away every dish.
REALITY: Grass-stained socks, mismatched shirts, and a crumpled dress under the couch.
REALITY: I still have to scrape spaghetti off plates.
GRATITUDE: My kids have clothes to wear, warmth over their shoulders, and memories etched into every t-shirt. The mess? A badge of adventurous, active childhood.
GRATITUDE: I have a dishwasher, and my kids are learning responsibility—even if it comes with a little missed pasta. Every plate I pull from that machine reminds me that small miracles exist, even in the kitchen.
Sibling Rivalry: A Lesson in Disguise Mornings, Miraculous & Messy
DREAM: Angelic children sharing toys without complaints.
DREAM:No missing shoes. No spilled cereal. Everyone out the door on time.
REALITY: A chorus of bickering and tattling.
REALITY: Socks on the stairs. Half-zipped lunchboxes. Tears
GRATITUDE: They’re learning communication, negotiation, and empathy. Those arguments, while infuriating, are shaping hu
over math homework.
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GRATITUDE: The table is full of people, laughter, and warmth. The chaos is the soundtrack of family memories being made— imperfectly perfect.
mans who (hopefully) survive adulthood without mediation every five minutes.
Bedtime: The Never-Ending Story The Elusive Silence
DREAM: Ten minutes flat and lights out.
DREAM: Five uninterrupted minutes for coffee at a normal temperature, reading the news, maybe even a shower alone.
REALITY: Kids want stories, snuggles, and “just one more” hug.
REALITY: Footsteps, questions, “Mom!” “Dad!” repeated every few seconds.
GRATITUDE: Each prolonged bedtime hug is a reminder they crave closeness, comfort, and attention—a gift worth savoring.
GRATITUDE: The noise is life. Our home is alive. Memories are made in the mess, not the quiet.
This Thanksgiving, I’ll still laugh at my whimsical dream list—but I’ll hold even tighter to the real: spilled milk, lost socks, bedtime negotiations, and the beautiful chaos that makes our family uniquely ours. Because when it comes down to it, that’s what parenting—and life—is all about. rrp
Holiday Table Perfection DREAM: Pinterest-worthy setup, every napkin folded, every plate aligned. REALITY: Someone’s shirt gets gravy, the dog eyes the turkey, and one pie didn’t rise.
River Region Parents I November 2026
Rebecca Hastings is a freelance writer and frequent contributor.
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by Kim Spivey
Tell us about your family, Kathy.
the choir at Frazer Church and attending Grandparents’ Day at ACA where they attend school.
Frank and I have been married for 36 years, and we have two children, Brittany and Anthony. We are blessed with four grandchildren: Slayton Thomas, 19 months; Baylor Lane, 6; Parker Kate, 3; and Huntor Dillon, 17 months. They call me KK, and my husband calls me Frog. We love being together and have a great relationship with our children and grandchildren. Family time is so important to us!
How is being a grandparent different from raising your own children? You get to enjoy things a little differently, but the values are still the same. I want my grandchildren to love Christ, sing blessings, and develop a strong relationship with Him. Respect and kindness are important, too. I want to reinforce what our children are teaching in their homes. Of course, KK’s house may be a little more relaxed sometimes, with Coke and cookies!
What do you enjoy most about being a grandparent? Honestly, it is the little things. Nothing beats seeing those babies run through the door, hug us, and light up when they see us. It melts my heart when they call and ask if they can come stay with us. We love spending time together and being involved in their lives as they grow.
Tell us the story behind your husband’s nickname, Frog! That name actually came from my nieces. They didn’t like calling him Uncle Frank, so they came up with a fun name instead. It stuck, and he has been Frog ever since.
How do you make time for family with everyone’s busy schedules? We try to have dinner together regularly. It gives us a chance to help our children, support them, and spend time with the grandkids. All four parents work, so we understand how much they juggle. I try to keep things the grandchildren might need, from snacks to baby formula, so they can come over without anyone worrying about packing everything. When I was raising my children, I didn’t have my parents nearby to help, and I had to figure out a lot as a working mom. I want to make things a little easier for my children whenever I can.
What is the greatest blessing of being KK and Frog? It is watching our grandchildren grow and knowing they feel loved and supported. We want them to always feel welcome in our home, know that they can count on us, and understand how much they mean to us.
Bio: Kathy Boston has called Montgomery, Alabama, home since 1986 and has
What are your favorite things to do with the grandchildren?
enjoyed a 35-year career in mortgage banking. She currently serves as a National Client Relationship Manager. Kathy enjoys spending time with her husband, Frank, two children, and four grandchildren while making the most of life in Montgomery, Alabama.
We love swimming and playing together during the summer. We love attending their showcases and competitions and cheering them on. We also enjoy seeing the girls participate in
Kimberley Carter Spivey is a freelance writer, blogger, author, and entrepreneur. Her debut book Bloom: How to Get from Good Enough to a Life You Love can be purchased on Amazon and girlyouwrite.com.
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River Region Parents I November 2026
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The holidays are supposed to be magical. But for families navigating the complex terrain of stepfamilies, bonus parents, multiple grandparents, and shared custody, it can feel less like a Hallmark movie and more like a logistical nightmare. Consider the math: 4 parents, 16 grandparents, 10 Christmas celebrations, and one exhausted child shuttled between them all. But it doesn’t have to be this way. With planning, clear communication, and a willingness to let go of “perfect,” families can create holidays that still feel meaningful. Here are some suggestions: Start Planning Early: The single most important thing blended and extended families can do is plan extremely early. The National Stepfamily Resource Center recommends parents plan ahead, communicate with former spouses and relatives, and put travel plans and itineraries in writing so everyone knows what to expect. This isn’t just about logistics. When children don’t know where they’ll be or what’s happening next, anxiety rises. A written schedule gives kids something concrete to hold onto. Attorney Lisa Zeiderman puts it simply: “Holiday schedules can be complex, so planning well in advance can help reduce lastminute stress and conflict. Start discussing holiday arrangements as early as possible.” This means having early conversations that you’d sometimes rather avoid. It means coordinating with your ex about gift-giving so a child doesn’t unwrap one gift at Mom’s house only to find a duplicate at Dad’s. It means asking your new partner’s parents how they envision the day before they’ve already set the table. The Day Doesn’t Have to Be THE Day: One of the most freeing realizations for modern families is this: Christmas can happen on December 28th. Or January 3rd. Or any other day that works. Many families alternate years for the “actual” holiday and celebrate on alternate dates when it’s not their turn. Others split the day itself: morning with one parent and evening with the other. Both approaches work, as long as everyone knows the plan in advance and nobody treats the “off” day like a consolation prize. Kids are often more flexible than we give them credit for. They often won’t remember which day of the week you celebrated. They’ll just remember that you did and you had fun. Grandma’s Christmas is usually fine on any day as long as she lets them eat Christmas cookies for breakfast. Old Traditions, New Twists: When families blend, traditions collide. One parent’s beloved Christmas Eve fondue ritual 47
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7 Scripts for the Holiday Conversations You’re Dreading 1. To your ex, as early as possible: “I know we both want the kids to enjoy the day. Can we lock in the schedule so they stop asking?” 2. To your ex, when they propose something unrealistic: “That won’t work for us, but here’s what will. Can you live with it, or should we trade years instead?” 3. To your mother-in-law: “We’re doing Christmas at our house this year. Would you like to come to us, or should we plan a visit the following weekend?”
stepparent wants to simply adopt “the way we’ve always done it” without input. Don’t assume your children want to abandon the rituals they shared with your ex, either. Those traditions may still bring comfort, even if the family configuration has changed. The goal isn’t to replicate the past. It’s to build something that belongs to everyone.
4. To your own mother, who expects you every year: “I want to see you. I can’t do the 25th this year. What does the week after look like for you?”
The Multiple Grandparent Issue: In families with multiple sets of 5. To a grandparent who’s competing with the other side: grandparents, the compe“Here are the dates we have available. Tell me which one tition for holiday time can you’d like.” be fierce. Family therapists have even coined a 6. To your child, before the schedule changes: “Here’s term for it: “granimosity.” the plan. You’ll be at Dad’s Christmas Eve, here ChristThe anxiety often mas morning, and Grandma’s on the 27th. Nothing is a starts months before the surprise.” actual holiday. Who gets 7. To yourself, when someone is disappointed: “I am not Christmas Day? Who gets responsible for managing the feelings of grown adults.” the grandchildren? Why does the other grandmother always seem to might clash with another’s stockings-savedwin? for-last routine. Someone’s grandmother For parents caught in the middle, there might have made a specific pie that must are various strategies: Rotate. Alternate. appear on the table, or the holiday is ruined. And stagger celebrations so that children The advice from family therapists is aren’t expected to be “on” for five different consistent: keep what matters, let go of what gatherings in 48 hours. And if a grandparent doesn’t, and create something new together. threatens to take a holiday trip because they Talk about what traditions are important didn’t get the day they wanted? Let them. to each individual, and be particularly sensiYour job isn’t to manage the emotions of tive to anyone experiencing the holiday with grown adults. It’s to create a holiday experithe family for the first time. Don’t assume a ence your children can actually enjoy.
River Region Parents I November 2026
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When The Kids Are Away: For parents whose children spend the holiday with their other parent, the silence can be deafening. With the kids celebrating at the other house, the couch at noon on Christmas Day can feel like a gut punch. But this time can also be an opportunity. Encourage your children to have fun before they leave. Give them explicit permission to enjoy themselves without guilt. Kids of separated parents often feel torn about enjoying themselves because they instinctively feel they’re betraying the other parent. Easing that anxiety is one of the greatest gifts you can give them. And for you? Sleep in. Take a bath. Host a dinner party with friends. The holiday will come around again next year. Your children will remember that you let them go without making them feel guilty. That matters more than any present under the tree. “At the heart of it, the goal is to celebrate and enjoy being with loved ones,” says Nadine J. Kaslow, a professor of psychiatry at Emory University. “Staying flexible and letting go of minor conflicts can make a world of difference.” So plan early. Communicate often. Keep some traditions and build new ones. Let the grandparents be disappointed sometimes. And remember that your children are watching how you handle the chaos. They’ll learn that family is complicated, that love doesn’t fit neatly into a calendar, and that sometimes the best celebrations happen on a random Wednesday in late December, with cookies for breakfast and no one in a hurry to be anywhere else. rrp Shannon Dean is a freelance writer and the mother of two sons. She specializes in writing about families and women’s health.
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Montgomery Alabama Dance Theatre presents “Dracula” ad on page 30
November 6-8 @ The Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Join us for Dracula November 6 to 8th at the Davis Theatre, as the Alabama Dance Theatre lights up the stage with great performances. alabamadancetheatre.org
River Region Ballet presents “The Nutcracker” ad on page 49
December 4-6 @ Davis Theatre 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 December 4 & 5 at 7 p.m. and December 5 & 6 at 2 p.m. “The Nutcracker,” choreographed by Stevan Grebel and set to music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, will thrill the audience with the prodigious dancing of the Youth Ballet Company and students from the school. With spectacular backdrops, scenery and a growing Christmas tree, this ballet is truly magical! alabamariverregionballet.com
Frazer Church presents Christmas Musical: Lessons and Carols ad on Inside Front Cover
Sunday, December 6, 2026 @ Wesley Hall 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 4 p.m. A fusion of ancient and fresh worship traditions for the whole family featuring the reading of scripture (“lessons”) and the singing of Christmas carols, arranged to tell the story of the prophesied coming and birth of the Savior. Childcare available (birth to 4 years). Children are welcome. (334) 272.8622 frazer.church
NUTQRACKER! Performed by Symphony Q Academy ad on page 5
December 11-12 @ MPAC 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 7 pm. Celebrate the magic of the holiday season with our annual production of The NutQracker! River Region Parents I November 2026
Join us for an enchanting evening of dance, beautiful storytelling, and festive holiday spirit as our talented dancers and professional dance artists bring this beloved Christmas classic to life. sqacademyofdance.com
The Shoppes at EastChase Santa Arrives at the Shoppes
Saturday, November 14, 2026 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117 theshoppesateastchase.com
First Baptist presents The Living Christmas Tree ad on page 7
December 11-13 @ First Baptist Church 305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Friday at 7 PM; Saturday and Sunday at 4 PM Come experience the splendor of Christmas in Main Sanctuary as the FBC choir and orchestra present, The Living Christmas Tree, a musical presentation that celebrates the birth of Jesus and the hope He brings. montgomeryfbc.org
Holiday Pops Concert ad on page 39
Friday, December 18, 2026 @ Davis Theatre 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 7:30 p.m. at the Davis Theatre. Join the MSO for an evening of everyone’s seasonal favorites. montgomerysymphony.org
Frazer Church hosts “Candlelight Worship” ad on Inside Front Cover
December 23-24 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Invite a friend, bring the family, and make Candlelight Worship a part of your plans on Christmas Eve Eve at 6 p.m. and Christmas Eve at 4 p.m. frazer.church
Heritage Baptist Church Christmas Eve Service ad on page 15
December 24 @ 1849 Perry Hill Rd, Montgomery 5 pm. Family-friendly including a special children’s moment with a gift. (334) 279.9976 hbcm.net
FUMC Fall Bazaar
Wednesday, November 4, 2026 2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL 36106 Join us in the Fellowship Hall on Wednesday, November 4, from 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM. Browse baked goods, gifts, and more! fumcmontgomery.org
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The Shoppes at EastChase Magical Christmas Parade
Friday, November 20, 2026 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117 5-8 p.m. Come rock around the tree with us! theshoppesateastchase.com
Alabama Shakespeare presents, “Elf the Musical”
November 25-December 27 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Embrace your inner elf with this magical, musical tale for all ages! Buddy the Elf journeys to the city to discover his true identity – and bring Christmas joy to everyone he meets. Unfortunately, his father may be at the top of Santa’s naughty list. Can Buddy help his new family rediscover the true meaning of Christmas? Inspired by the beloved hit film, this hilarious and heartwarming holiday musical is a gift for the whole family. asf.net
Annual Holiday Light Festival The Montgomery Zoo
December 1-27 @ Montgomery Zoo 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36110 5-9 p.m. each night. montgomeryzoo.com
First United Methodist Church Announces Gift Hope
Wednesday, December 2, 2026 2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL 36106 4:30-6:30 p.m. Gift Hope will offer people in the River Region an opportunity to rethink the traditional holiday gift by honoring friends and family with specific gift donations to local non-profits. fumcmontgomery.org/gifthope
25th Annual Lights of Love
Thursday, December 3, 2026 @ Jackson Hospital 1725 Pine St Montgomery, AL 36106 Remember a loved one or honor someone special during the holiday season by purchasing a light on the Jackson Hospital Lights of Love tree. For each contribution of $25, a symbolic light will be placed on the tree. A generous gift of $100 or more will purchase a miniature Moravian star. For
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a donation of $500 or more, an honoree will be remembered as an angel. (334) 293.6940 jackson.org
The Nutcracker with a Live Orchestra
Thursday, December 3, 2026 @ MPAC 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 7 p.m. The Holiday Magic Begins Here — With a LIVE Orchestra. This holiday season, experience The Nutcracker like never before. Featuring a live orchestra, 40 world-class dancers, over 150 sparkling hand-sewn costumes, and lavish hand-crafted sets, World Ballet Company’s The Nutcracker is a breathtaking holiday spectacle for all ages. ticketshelper.com
2026 Capital City Governors Tree Lighting
Friday, December 4, 2026 @ Capitol 1142 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 5 p.m., Come enjoy the National Guard Band 30 minutes prior to tree lighting. - Governor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Capitol. montgomeryal.gov
Eastdale Mall - Santa’s Magical Arrival and Photos with Santa Friday, December 4, 2026 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36117 Monday-Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Christmas Eve from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Come have your photo made with Santa on the big green sleigh! Packages and Digital Files are available to purchase! eastdale-mall.com
Holiday Dinner Cruise
December 4-5, 11-12 and 18-19 @ Downtown Riverwalk Montgomery, AL 36106 6:30-9:30 p.m. Cruise the Alabama River with Santa on the Harriott II Riverboat. (334) 625.2100
Christmas on Madison Holiday Open House
Saturday, December 5, 2026 Madison Avenue Montgomery, AL 8-4 p.m. Join us for a day of shopping, delicious foods, art, handmade goods, and loads of fun! This event will span Madison Avenue from the 400 block to the 1200 block. Montgomery Curb Market (8am12), Armory Learning Arts Center, Southern Art & Makers Collective (10am -4), Mercantile on Madison by FDL (10a-4), Old Alabama Town, Rescued Relics. Also, Food Trucks and Pop-up Bakers. southernartmakers.com
Motown Christmas
Tuesday, December 8, 2026 @ MPAC 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 7:30 p.m. A Motown Christmas is a powerful familyoriented show combining Motown’s greatest hits with everyone’s favorite holiday classics. This show features those famous Motown trademarks: dazzling choreography and unforgettable harmonies all performed in that memorable Motown style. ticketmaster.com
Glenn Miller Holiday Concert featuring Airmen of Note
Friday, December 11, 2026 @ Davis Theatre 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Annual Glenn Miller Holiday Concert. This year’s performance is free to the public. Will be accepting canned food donations for the Montgomery
Area Food Bank. This performance will be held at the Davis Theatre. Featuring The United States Air Force Band, Airmen of Note, premier jazz ensemble, will perform holiday and Glenn Miller favorites. The Airmen of Note ensemble was created in 1950 to carry on the style and tradition of the Glenn Miller Army Air Forces Dance Band. (334) 241.9567
F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum Christmas Open House
Saturday, December 12, 2026 919 Felder Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 Join us for our annual Christmas Open House. Free and Open to the Public from 12-3pm. We will have Santa for photos. thefitzgeraldmuseum.org
Lessons and Carols Service, December 13 at 10:30 a.m. and Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service at 5 p.m. firstpresbyterianchurchofprattville.com
City of Prattville’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration
Thursday, December 3, 2026 @ Grassy area near the Fountain at Court and Third Streets. Prattville, AL 36067 6:30 p.m. Heritage Park by the Fountain and Autauga Creek Dam. DJ starts at 6 p.m. Tree lighting, music, visits with Santa, and more. No charge for tree lighting event (334) 595.0854 prattvilleal.gov
City of Prattville Christmas Market
Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Tour Open House
December 14, 15 & 16 1142 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 5:30-7:30 p.m. The 1907 Governor’s Mansion will be aglow with lights and filled with the spirit of the season. Tickets are free but must be picked up at the Governor’s Mansion Gift Shop. governor.alabama.gov
The Montgomery Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”
December 17-18 @ MPAC 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 6 p.m. Step into a world of enchantment as the timeless tale of Clara and her Nutcracker prince unfolds on stage. Join us for an afternoon filled with dazzling costumes, breathtaking choreography, and the beloved Tchaikovsky score that will transport you to a land of sugarplum fairies and dancing snowflakes. montgomeryballet.org
Saint James Church Christmas Musical
Sunday, December 20, 2026 9045 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 11 a.m. in the Worship Center. The service will feature the Chancel Choir. We hope you can join us for this marvelous musical event. sjlife.com
The Montgomery Chorale Messiah Sing Along
Tuesday, December 22, 2026 @ Church of the Ascension 315 Clanton Ave Montgomery, AL 36104 7 p.m., Messiah Sing Along FREE Community Event and Reception to benefit the Montgomery Area Food Bank.
December 3-6, 8, 11-13, 18-23 @ Spillway Park, Historic Downtown Prattville 5-9 p.m. NEW this year — we are so excited to offer our Christmas Market at Spillway Park! Nothing says Downtown Christmas quite like strolling through a festive market filled with twinkling lights, local vendors, homemade treasures, and unique holiday gifts. prattvilleal.gov
City of Prattville’s Christmas Parade
Friday, December 4, 2026 @ Autauga Courthouse The parade will start at 7pm at the Autauga County Courthouse at 4th and Court Streets. It will follow Main Street, turn right on Northington, then left on Doster Road to Stanley Jensen Stadium. prattvilleal.gov
City of Prattville’s Very Merry Sundays
December 6, 13, 20 @ Prattville Cultural Arts Make your Sundays in December a little merrier with Very Merry Sundays! Join us for festive fun the whole family can enjoy. December 6, Cookie Decorating - Kim from Kim’s Cakes and Crumbs will be bringing the holiday cheer with a Christmas-themed cookie decorating kit. Pick up a kit to take home or stay and decorate your cookies there with Kim’s help. $20 per kit, all supplies are included. Registration is required. Spots are limited. December 13, Cocoa and Characters - Grab a cozy cup of cocoa and jingle with your favorite holiday characters! Way Off Broadway Theatre brings the magic of the season to warm your heart and bring a smile to your face as our talented Christmas character friends transport you to a candy wonderland filled with wonder and cheer. Plus, you can snap a picture with them! December 20, Holiday Art Project - Get creative as the Prattauga Art Guild hosts a free art workshop for the youth. Featuring a holiday-themed project to take home
montgomerychorale.org
prattvilleal.gov
2026 Capital City Christmas Parade
City of Prattville Main Street Christmas
TBA @ Downtown Montgomery, AL 36104 6:15 p.m. The City of Montgomery would like to invite you to the Christmas Parade. Depart from Cramton Bowl and Parade downtown from Capitol Steps to the Court Street Fountain. A limited number of parade entries will be accepted.
Tuesday, December 8, 2026 @ Downtown Prattville 5:30 – 7:30 pm. Skating, Carriage Rides, Shops open late, photo opportunities, prizes, beautiful lights and decorations
montgomeryal.gov
December 8, 13 and 20 @ Downtown Prattville Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Historic Downtown Prattville at Christmastime with free carriage rides. There are three opportunities to take part in this fairytale experience. The rides are available as part of Main Street Christmas on December 8, 5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. The carriage rides will continue to run for two consecutive Sundays,
Prattville
First Presbyterian Church
December 13 and 24 @ Christmas Services 211 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 36067
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Christmas in Prattville Carriage Rides
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December 13 and 20, 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Rides are provided on a first-come-first-served basis. So, come early to get your spot in line! prattvilleal.gov
Annual Christmas Concert by Prattville Chorus Prattville Pops
Friday, December 11, 2026 @ Doster Community Center 424 South Northington Street Prattville, AL 36067 Enjoy a Christmas Concert featuring the Prattville Pops at 7 p.m. This annual concert will delight the entire family with Christmas songs and sing-a-longs. The concert will be held at Doster Community Center on South Northington in Prattville. Facebook: Prattville Cultural Arts
Christmas at East Memorial
Sunday, December 13, 2026 @ East Memorial Baptist Church 1320 Old Ridge Road Prattville, AL 36067 10:30 a.m. Our Celebration Choir, Orchestra, and Drama Team will present “The Gift” an East Memorial Christmas Favorite. eastmemorial.org
City of Millbrook Spirit of Christmas Festival and Parade
Saturday, December 12, 2026 @ Village Green Park 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Everyone is invited to join us for Millbrook’s Spirit of Christmas Festival and Parade. Festival hours are 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. There will be a wide variety of product and food vendors to take care of all your Holiday Shopping and fill your bellies. The Parade starts at 2 p.m. with tons of fun, floats and loads of candy and other goodies thrown along the routes. cityofmillbrook.org
Celestial Strings Christmas Concert
Monday, December 14, 2026 @ Millbrook Presbyterian Church 3480 Main Street Millbrook, AL 36054 7 p.m. Holiday Harps, O Come Let Us Adore Him Christmas Carols Concert (423) 779.7674
TBA @ Village Green Park 6 p.m. Everyone is invited to join us for Millbrook Outdoor Movie Night at Village Green Park.
The Prattville Ballet’s “The Grinch”
First Baptist Christmas Eve Services
Thursday, December 24, 2026 138 South Washington Street Prattville, AL 36067 December 24 at 3 and 5 p.m. fbcprattville.org
Wetumpka
Charis Crafters Annual Christmas Show “Home for the Holidays” and Tasting Fair
November 12-14 @ Wetumpka Civic Center 410 South Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Annual show features baked goods, canned goods and crafts from more than 20 artisans. Door prizes every hour. Tickets available at the door. Come taste foods prepared by members from our recipe cookbooks which will also be on sale. Facebook/ Charis Crafters
Millbrook
ANC Fall Family Campout
November 7-8 @ Alabama Nature Center 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, AL 36054 Fall is in the air and it is a perfect time to come to the ANC for a great camping experience! Come spend the night with us at the Alabama Nature Center for our Fall Family Campout! Enjoy a night with your family under the stars with activities that include roasting marshmallows, a movie, a night hike, fishing and more! The kids will even get to make their own glow stick lantern to take home! Guests will need to bring their own camping supplies, and all camping will be Tent Only. The fee for this event will be a weekend pass rate of $5 per person, the weekend pass will be good for specified event dates only. Activities and Campsite set up will begin at 2pm Saturday, campsites must be cleaned up and vacated by 9am Sunday.
Downtown Wetumpka Open House
Saturday, November 14, 2026 11 am to 4 pm. Local downtown shops and boutiques feature exclusive deals, holiday merchandise, and seasonal specials.Downtown Cookie Hop: A festive event run by Main Street Wetumpka where participants can collect sweet treats and enjoy family-friendly holiday activities around the district.
Downtown Dickens Christmas and Tree Lighting
December 4-5 @ Downtown Wetumpka 5 p.m. Join the Wetumpka Chamber in collaboration with the City of Wetumpka, and Main Street Wetumpka for a two-night community event as we celebrate the annual Christmas tree lighting and enjoy a Victorian Christmas in historic downtown Wetumpka! wetumpkachamber.com
alabamawildlife.org
Farmer’s Holiday Market
City of Millbrook Christmas Music and Tree Lighting
(334) 567.5147
Thursday, December 3, 2026 @ Millbrook Village Green Stage 6 p.m. There will be caroling, food trucks, hot chocolate bar, synchronized Christmas Lights & Music show, and City Tree Lighting. Bring your lawn chairs & blankets. SNOW IS PREDICTED! Activities will begin at 5pm and Tree Lighting Ceremony starts promptly at 6pm. cityofmillbrook.org
River Region Parents I November 2026
Saturday, December 12, 2026 8 a.m. - 7:30 p.m. Join us for one of Wetumpka’s most cherished traditions, Christmas on the Coosa! This year’s theme is ‘Lights, Camera, Christmas!’ and will feature a day filled with Christmas magic, festive cheer, and community spirit. Don’t miss out on the holiday fun. wetumpkaal.gov
Pike Road
Pike Road UMC Christmas Eve Events ad on page 47
December 24 @ 906 Pike Road 3 pm: Home for Christmas (an interactive service for all ages) 6 pm: Candlelight service pikeroadumc.org
City of Millbrook Outdoor Movie Night
cityofmillbrook.org
December 12, 2026 @ held at Jeff State Performing Arts Center 1850 Lay Dam Road Clanton, AL 2 p.m. Students of CJ’s Dance Factory and Prattville Ballet present The Grinch. $15 cjsdancefactory.com
City of Wetumpka Christmas on the Coosa
Saturday, December 5, 2026 304 E. Coosa Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. Join us for our Holiday Market.
Annual Pike Road Arts & Crafts Festival
Saturday, November 7, 2026 890 Old Carter Hill Road Pike Road, AL 36064 The Annual Pike Road Arts & Crafts Fair Join us at the historic Marks House on Saturday, from 9 AM – 4 PM for one of Alabama’s most beloved fall traditions! Nearly 200 vendors from across Alabama and the Southeast featuring fine art, handmade crafts, woodworking, pottery, textiles, health & beauty products, gourmet foods, boutique clothing, holiday gifts, and more. pikeroadcraftfair.com
Local & Bloom Holiday Market
Sunday, November 29, 2026 569 Pike Road Pike Road, AL 36064 12-4 PM. After every Thanksgiving and Iron Bowl we have our annual Christmas market that following Sunday. This is always a fun afternoon to get serious about your Christmas shopping with curated gifts from local artists and crafters! Come out and support local! (334) 333.3262
Pike Road Dance Academy: Holly Jolly Winter Recital
Sunday, December 13, 2026 @ The Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 5-7 p.m. A Christmas Performance with studio. Christmas routines to ignite the Christmas spirit. Visit Santa between shows. (334) 782.9200 pikeroaddance.com
Eclectic
Christmas Begins With Christ: An Eclectic Christmas
December 1-7 1733 Claud Road Eclectic, AL 36024 Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. Time slots are scheduled in 15 minute increments. Admission is free. www.aneclecticministry.org
City of Wetumpka Christmas Decoration Contest
Thursday, December 10, 2026 6:00 p.m. Businesses and residential. There will be judging to those who have submitted applications. Prizes will be awarded. wetumpkaal.gov
Tallassee
Christmas Tree Lighting
Friday, December 4, 2026 @ Veterans Park 6 p.m. at Veterans Park. Santa will arrive. tallassee-al.gov
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Holiday Parade
Saturday, December 5, 2026 10 a.m. Begins at Tallassee Church of Christ and goes thru Central Blvd down to Barnette Blvd. and end at Tallassee High school. Holiday activities after parade in downtown Tallassee for children. tallassee-al.gov
Holiday Market
TBA @ Veterans Park Vendors selling crafts and food. tallassee-al.gov
Lake Martin/Alex City Christmas at Crossroads
Friday, November 27, 2026 @ Russell Crossroads 19 Russell Farms Road Lake Martin, AL 35010 10a.m. until 2 p.m. The turkey and dressing have all disappeared, we hope you had a great Thanksgiving! Now, it’s time to start thinking about Christmas! Your first stop on the Friday after Thanksgiving should be Russell Crossroads for Christmas at Crossroads! Make sure your kids have their lists ready for Santa, we know they have been really good this year! The Jolly Elf will make his way from the North Pole to the Green Stage at 10am. (256) 397.1019 russelllandsonlakemartin.com
Holiday Bazaar
Friday, November 27, 2026 @ Russell Crossroads 19 Russell Farms Road Lake Martin, AL 35010 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Artisans and patrons from all over gather for this vast annual display of handmade goods. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more! russelllandsonlakemartin.com
Calera
North Pole Express Train Rides
November 13-15, 20-22, 27-29 and December 4-6, 11-13, 18-20 @ Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 9th Street Calera, AL 35040 Please visit our website www.hodrrm.org for times. “All Aboard” says the conductor, and your journey begins. Through the dark night, the magical train speeds to the top of the world! Upon arrival at the brilliantly decorated North Pole, Santa, Mrs. Claus and the elves board the train to visit with everyone, so be sure to bring your camera! You’ll enjoy chocolate milk and cookies and sing Christmas carols along with the live musician, Mr. Jim. Listen to a special Christmas story and receive a Christmas gift. 1(205) 757.8383 hodrrm.org
Christmas at the Station
December 5, 12 and 19 @ The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 9th Street Calera, AL 35040 ‘Tis the season to be jolly! Get your tickets and bring the whole family to celebrate the holiday together with a 30-minute daytime ride on the seasonally decorated Calera & Shelby train; visit Santa for a festive photo opportunity on the Museum grounds; board the narrow-gauge steam train for a quick trip down Candy Cane Lane on the Shelby & Southern Railroad; and enjoy all the activities on the museum grounds.
hodrrm.org
a magical walk through an amazing lighting extravaganza with festive seasonal music. Great for the whole family!
Birmingham and North
Lanier Islands Snow Island
It’s all included with your Christmas Experience tickets!
Christmas Craft Show
November 13-14 @ Gardendale Civic Center 857 Main St. Gardendale, AL 35071 9 a.m. Gardendale Civic Center hosts the Christmas Craft Show with over 60 booths. Only handmade, hand crafted items. Pictures with Santa too! cityofgardendale.com
McWane Science Center Magic of Model Trains
November 27-December 31 @ McWane Science Center 200 19th Street N Birmingham, AL 35203 Magic of Model Trains will return to spread some holiday cheer and amaze guests. Discover trains of every shape and size inside this popular exhibit of train displays. Every set in the exhibit is designed to scale with the size of the trains. The meticulous detail of the scenery includes covered bridges, downtown storefronts and, of course, several train stations that will keep your family entertained for hours. mcwane.org
Out of State/Georgia Stone Mountain Christmas
November 7-January 3, 2027 @ Stone Mountain Park Stone Mountain, GA 30083 There is nothing like the Christmas season that magically transforms Stone Mountain Park into a land of enchantment. Within the glow of more than two million twinkling lights, you can watch live entertainment, engage in fun attractions and reconnect with friends and family during this special time of year. Make a Stone Mountain Christmas a part of your holiday tradition. Events include Wonderland Walkway, Snow Angel Castle, Holly Jolly Cabaret, The Polar Express 4D Experience, Snow Angel Fireworks and Snowfall Celebration, Sleigh Ride, Simply Christmas, Christmas Parade, Visit with Santa Claus, storytelling and live shows, great food and holiday shopping! stonemountainpark.com
Annual Fantasy In Lights
November 15-January 3, 2027 @ Callaway Gardens 17800 US Hwy 27 Pine Mountain, GA 31822 Nestled amidst wooded landscape of Callaway Gardens, Fantasy In Lights is the Southeast’s most spectacular holiday light and sound show with more than eight million twinkling lights celebrating the holiday season. Drive your car or ride the Jolly Trolley to experience scenes like Magical Field of Lights, March of the Toy Soldiers and Snowflake Valley. At Robin Lake Beach, enjoy ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ and ‘The Nativity’, light and sound shows enticing passers-by to stop, reflect and enjoy.
lanierislands.com
November 20-January 23, 2027 @ Lake Lanier 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518 Take the crew snow tubing, get your skates on and practice your figure eights at the ice rink, hop on the carnival rides, make snow angels, warm up with s’mores and hot cocoa, and shop in Santa’s Workshop. Don’t forget to stop in and let the little ones tell Jolly Ole St. Nick what they hope to find under the tree. lanierislands.com
“The Twelve Dates of Christmas”
December 11-20 @ Springer Theatre 103 Tenth Street Columbus, GA 31901 After seeing her fiancé kiss another woman at the televised Thanksgiving Day Parade, Mary does what any reasonable woman would do: She reads him the riot act! After the break-up her life falls apart, just in time for the holidays (of course!). But there’s no turning back now. (706) 327.3688 springeroperahouse.org
Just for Kids
YMCA Camp Chandler New Years Eve Camp
December 30-January 1, 2027 1240 Jordan Dam Road Wetumpka, AL 36092 Join us welcoming the New Year at Camp. Enjoy three days of classic camp activities and New Year fun. Members $170, Non-Members $190. Ages 6-15. ymcamontgomery.org
YMCA Goodtimes Holiday Childcare
December-January 2325 Mill Ridge Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Program will run every day except Thanksgiving Day or the day after. 7:00 a.m. thru 6 p.m. Please call for more information. ymcamontgomery.org
Christmas at the ANC
Saturday, December 5, 2026 @ Alabama Nature Center 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, AL 36054 Join us for our annual Christmas at the Alabama Nature Center. Enjoy hayrides, Christmas crafts, decorating cookies, candy cane trail and much more! Christmas is always fun here at the ANC, we will have hot chocolate for sale and plenty of activities to keep you warm. Bring your camera and take a picture with jolly Ol’ Saint Nick! Activi-
callawaygardens.com
Magical Nights of Lights Spectacular November 20-January 3, 2027 @ Lake Lanier 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518 Visit Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular for a night of nostalgic wintry fun. The Lakeside Lights Spectacular will take you on
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ties from 9:30am-2:00pm | General admission applies and includes awesome events throughout the day! Members only time between 2pm-4pm. alabamawildlife.org
River Region Parents I November 2026
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While sports can provide a multitude of emotional and physical benefits for kids, specializing in a single sport at too early an age can pose risks. How do you know when—or if— your child should specialize in a sport they love?
drew & ellie holcomb’s
What is sports specialization?
Brian Harvey, O.D., a pediatric sports medicine physician, says that sports specialization is defined as playing and competing in one single sport exclusively for more than eight months out of the year.
Advantages of multi-sport athletes. Some parents worry that their
children won’t have a competitive advantage later on if they don’t specialize early. Karen Hughey, co-founder and CEO of Team Cura, works with scholarshipseeking athletes and their parents. As a former sports parent, Hughey says both her children played a variety of sports. She and her husband left it up to their children to decide which ones they wanted to pursue as they got older. Although he was a talented golfer, her son Rob, co-founder of Team Cura, opted to quit golf early in his high school career to participate in other activities. But by his junior year, he decided that he wanted to return to golf and play at the college level. “He had to work harder to reach out to college coaches at that point, but he still was fine,” Hughey says. “He found a great school and a great fit for himself. So, leave it up to your kids. They’ll find their way and figure it out.” From discussions with many high school and college coaches, Hughey has found that they tend to prefer recruiting multi-sport athletes. “I think football is probably the best example of not specializing,” Harvey says. “Ninety percent of the first-round draft picks are multi-sport athletes. They’re running track, playing basketball, wrestling. It certainly doesn’t hinder their ability to play professionally or get those college scholarships.”
Prevent injury. “We see that kids who
y l r o b h g i e N hristmas C thursday, december 10 7 p.m. / woltosz theatre
Tickets available now! 334.844.TIXS (8497) GOGUECENTERTICKETS.AUBURN.EDU
View our complete 2026–27 season calendar online.
have had experiences playing a multitude of sports have fewer difficulties learning new skills and, generally, don’t suffer 55
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from the overuse injuries and burnout that are common with youth athletes specializing in one sport,” says physical therapist Tim Cummings, PT, DPT. An overuse injury occurs as a result of repetitive motion and impact on one area of the body. “Overuse injuries are those injuries that cause an athlete to lose more than a month of their sport,” Harvey says. “Those are the biggest ones that we see in the developing athletes who do sports specialization.” Cummings says the most common overuse injuries he sees in younger patients include ankle sprains, knee pain, Little Leaguer’s Elbow, ACL tears, and Osgood-Schlatter. “Osgood-Schlatter is a traction injury on a special type of growth plate called an apophysis, which is at the top of the shin bone,” Cummings explains. “The traction comes from strong and relatively tight muscles that develop during puberty and high activity levels. Pain and sometimes swelling can be felt directly over a bump at the bottom of the knee.”
Avoid burnout. Participating in differ-
ent sports throughout the year is easier on developing bodies, and kids are less likely to get bored or even anxious or depressed. “Athletes wanting to perform at their best, but not being able to, whether it’s due to injury or their fear of disappointing a coach or a parent or even themselves, plus that
River Region Parents I November 2026
chronic daily physical demand, can lead to higher rates of burnout and quitting their sport,” Harvey says. To allow the body time to rest and recover, kids shouldn’t train for more than eight months out of the year. “And really try not to practice, train, or compete more than their age in years per week,” Harvey says. (For example, no more than 12 hours per week for a 12-year-old.) Striking a healthy balance between sports and other interests is also beneficial. “Some of the high school athletes we work with have stressed the importance of needing downtime and being able to spend time with friends,” Hughey says.
Encourage free play. Whether they toss a football around with friends, shoot hoops in the driveway, play tag, or make up competitive games, kids develop motor skills, creativity, and social/emotional skills through unstructured play. “When we start to look at young athletes, the body really needs time to develop, to learn how to run, learn how to jump—really learn how to use their bodies and play,” Harvey says. “Instead of focusing on one exact sport, try a little bit of different types of sports. Learn how to be athletic first and foremost, and then really have fun with those sports.”
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When to specialize. “This isn’t a blackand-white, good-or-bad issue. Sports like figure skating, gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics and diving require early specialization due to the high demand to acquire specific sports skills early on,” Cummings says. “Peak performance in these sports most often happens before reaching full physical maturity.” But he emphasizes that early specialization combined with decreased recovery time does put an athlete at increased risk for overuse injuries no matter the sport chosen. Harvey recommends parents gauge specialization readiness according to a child’s physical and mental maturity. Although he’d prefer kids waited until they were at least 12 (ideally 14 or 15), “there’s probably not a specific age that I would say is perfect,” he says. He says a child who is physically and mentally ready to specialize: • Is goal-oriented • Understands that the sport should be fun • Comprehends complex rules of the game • Recognizes the demand that a sport can put on the mind and the body • Can cope with those demands in a healthy way. Above all, “you’ve got to listen to your children,” Hughey says. “Countless coaches have told us that you will know when the time is right. If you’re pushing it, it’s not the right time.” rrp
Christa Melnyk Hines is a nationally published freelance writer. She and her husband are the parents of two active sons.
www.riverregionparents.com
you felt embarrassed when your teacher corrected you in front of everyone. Is that right?” This gives your child an opportunity to correct misunderstandings, organize their thoughts, and practice communicating clearly.
Listening to Understand, Not to Respond
by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com
The Quiet Power of Listening When parenting feels overwhelming and you don’t know what to say or do next, remember this: Sometimes the most powerful response isn’t advice, correction, or a solution. It’s simply being willing to stop and listen. I recently lost my grandmother, one of the greatest listeners I have ever known. She had a remarkable ability to make me feel heard, understood, and important. She didn’t always have advice, and she certainly didn’t agree with everything I said. She simply listened more than she lectured. Looking back, I realize how much she taught me without saying a word. After 25 years of working with children and families, I believe one of the most powerful parenting skills is also one of the most overlooked: listening. We spend so much time teaching, correcting, advising, and directing our children that we sometimes forget to hear them. Yet, if we want our children to listen to us, we must first demonstrate what listening looks like. Here are several ways we can intentionally listen to strengthen our relationships and influence.
Active Listening: Give Your Undivided Attention
Put down your phone, make eye contact when appropriate, and resist interrupting. When your child says, “My teacher hates me!” instead of immediately responding, “I’m sure that’s not true,” try,
Perhaps the hardest skill is resisting the urge to immediately fix, lecture, or defend. Instead of explaining why the teacher was right, ask, “What do you think happened?” or “What could you do differently next time?” Our children need guidance, but we cannot effectively teach skills until we understand what’s actually happening.
Listening Changes as Children Grow
With infants and toddlers, listening means noticing cries, gestures, expressions, and emerging words while providing considerable guidance. As children mature, our conversations should gradually shift from directing toward listening, questioning, and collaborative problem-solving. Even our adult children need parents who listen without immediately offering unsolicited advice. “Tell me what happened.” Your attention communicates something powerful: What you have to say matters to me.
Empathetic Listening: Hear the Feelings Behind the Words
Children need to know we can handle their emotions without becoming overwhelmed ourselves. When your child says, “My teacher hates me!” respond with, “It sounds like you felt really hurt by something that happened today.” Remember, validating feelings does not mean agreeing with their interpretation or excusing inappropriate behavior. It simply means acknowledging their emotional experience. Children who feel understood are often more willing to share the rest of the story and listen to feedback.
Reflective Listening: Make Sure You Understand
Reflective listening involves repeating or summarizing what you’ve heard to clarify understanding. For example, “So, 57
The Relationship Comes Before the Lesson
My grandmother gave me something I will carry forever: the experience of being truly heard. I hope to give that same gift to others. Listening doesn’t eliminate correction or boundaries. It creates the trust that makes our guidance easier to receive. If you want your children to talk to you, listen more. If you want them to trust you, listen more. And if you want them to value your wisdom, make sure they know you value their voice.
Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.
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Family Calendar August Wilson’s FENCES at Alabama Shakespeare Festival Troy Maxson was a gifted Negro League baseball player with dreams of joining the Majors, but now he barely makes ends meet as a sanitation worker in 1950s Pittsburgh. While he builds a fence around his home to keep his family together, his anguish over his own shattered dreams threatens to tear them apart. Variety hails this acclaimed family drama as “a masterpiece.” asf.net
November 1 to December 20
Brushstrokes of Freedom Art Show 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Pike Road Arts Council, 944 Wallahatchie Rd, Pike Rd, AL 36064 The Pike Road Arts Council is proud to present Brushstrokes of Freedom, an inspiring exhibition by local and regional artists. This compelling collection of works explores the enduring themes of life, liberty, and the pursuit of freedom in the United States of America through 250 years of American Democracy. pikeroad.us
November 4 & 25
Uno Championship 3:00 PM Montgomery City-County Public Library, 245 High St. Montgomery, AL 36104 Become an Uno Champion. mccpl.lib.al.us
November 5-7
FREE Montgomery Home Show 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, 1555 Federal Drive, Montgomery, AL 36107 Step into the Home Show for hands-on demonstrations, expert advice, and exclusive offers to elevate your home. Free Admission for all! montgomeryhomeshow.com
November 6-8
Alabama Dance Theatre presents Dracula Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts, 251 Montgomery Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Join Alabama Dance Theatre as we bring Bram Stoker’s legendary tale to life through dance. www.alabamadancetheatre.org/performances
November 6 - 8
Book Big Sale 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM, 245 High St. Montgomery, AL 36104 Don’t miss Montgomery City-County Library annual Big Book Sale & More, coming Friday, November 6th - Sunday, November 8th to the Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library in Downtown Montgomery! Enjoy food trucks, story times, and arts & crafts to keep the entire family having fun while you shop for a great selection of books at discounted prices. mccpl.lib.al.us/
Saturday, November 7
Fall Farmers Market 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, The Grove on Doster Road, 203 West 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 The Prattville Farmers Market will return for a one-day market
River Region Parents I November 2026
happening near you! Full Details and Clickable Links online at
NOVEMBER 2026 Through November 15
Find more family fun
www.RiverRegionParents.com!
featuring Fall crops! Shop fresh, local produce, baked goods, honey, fall crafts, and more. prattvilleal.gov Parks and Rec Fall Festival 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Sheridan Heights Community Center, 3501 Faro Dr. Montgomery, Alabama 36110 Bring the family out for an afternoon of fall fun featuring food, music, hayrides and a pumpkin patch. The event is free and open to the community, and no registration is required. www.montgomeryal.gov Your Next Chapter Has Four Paws! 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, The NewSouth Bookstore, 105 South Court Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 The NewSouth Bookstore, 105 South Court Street, Montgomery, AL 36104. The NewSouth Bookstore is teaming up with the Montgomery Humane Society for an adoption event! Come meet some wonderful animals looking for their forever homes. You never know — you might leave with a new family member! You can also learn more on how to help this important organization through local volunteers attending. newsouthbookstore.com/
November 8-14
Monday, November 9
Homeschool Meet Up 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Autauga-Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St, Prattville, AL 36067 It’s your time to shine! Bring something special to you and tell us all about it. Each participant will have up to 2 minutes to share their item, practice public speaking, and learn a little more about their fellow homeschoolers. Toys, collections, books, and other meaningful treasures are welcome! Please leave live animals and critters at home. appl.info/event/homeschool-meet-up-2/
Friday, November 13
Art After Five: Last Call for American Worker
(This event is free and open to the public.)
6:00 PM - 8:30 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Close out the week on a high note with a laid-back Friday at MMFA as we toast the nearing finale of our America250 exhibition series. We are extending the fun to 8:30 PM, so come exactly as you are—dressed up, dressed down, or somewhere in between—for this special edition of Art After Five. Rest your mind, build new connections, and explore the galleries with us. mmfa.org
Veterans Appreciation Week at the Zoo 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, Alabama 36110 During Veteran’s Appreciation Week, all veterans, active duty military personnel, and their dependent family members receive a 50% DISCOUNT on REGULAR DAYTIME admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Thank you for your service and dedication to the nation and the world. Participants must provide a valid military identification to receive discount.
Six String Southern Presents Justin Moore With Special Guests The Marlow Brothers and Austin Michael ($44 - $74, additional fees may apply.) 7:30 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, Montgomery, AL Multi-PLATINUM country hitmaker Justin Moore has built a loyal following over nearly two decades with his traditional country sound and rowdy, captivating live shows. mpaconline.org/justin-moore
Sunday, November 8
Saturday, November 14
Make A Bowl For Empty Bowls With Madalyn Richardson 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Pike Road Arts Center, 944 Wallahatchie Rd Pike Road, AL 36064 Join the Pike Road Arts Council and artist Madalyn Richardson at the Pike Road Arts Center for a hands on pottery experience that combines creativity with a meaningful cause. Participants will learn hand-building techniques to create their own handmade ceramic bowl, then add unique designs and textures to make their piece one of a kind. No pottery experience is required, and all supplies are provided. pikeroad.us 2026 Veterans Appreciation Ceremony 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Pike Road Veterans Memorial at Veterans Park, 4902 Pike Road, Pike Road, AL Join us on Sunday, as we honor the men and women who have sacrificed so much to keep our country free! https://pikeroad.us
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November 14 & December 12 Children’s Holiday Art Workshop 203 West 4th Street, Prattville, AL 36067 The Prattauga Art Guild will host a free art workshop for the youth. Featuring a holiday-themed project to take home. Space is limited, registration is required. prattvilleal.gov
City of Montgomery Veterans Day Celebration 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM, Central Alabama Montgomery VA Clinic, 8105 Veterans Way, Montgomery, Alabama 36117 Join the City of Montgomery for a Veterans Day Parade and Resource Fair honoring the service and sacrifices of our veterans. Free; no registration required to attend. www.montgomeryal.gov/ Downtown Wetumpka Open House 11 am until 4 pm. Local downtown shops and boutiques feature exclusive deals, holiday merchandise, and seasonal specials. Also, Cookie Hop: A festive event run by Main Street Wetumpka where participants can collect sweet treats and enjoy familyfriendly holiday activities around town. Santa Drop 10:00 AM - 1:30 PM,, YMCA Willis Bradford Branch, Prattville Santa Drop 2026 is a FREE community Christmas event in Prattville! Watch Santa and the
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Grinch arrive by parachute at 11:00 AM, then enjoy food trucks, inflatables, local vendors, free photos with Santa, kids’ activities, giveaways and more. Guests are also encouraged to bring a new, unwrapped toy to support the Autauga Christmas Team. www.athomealabama.com/santadrop26
Monday, November 16
The Revivalists With Hunter Metts ($44.50 -
$99.50, additional fees may apply.)
8:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, Montgomery, AL For a long time, The Revivalists have been embraced as a goodtimes band, their swirl of indie rock, soul, folk, and even a dash of hip-hop serving a soundtrack to many summer nights. Their story, after all, has been one of youthful triumph, with a chance encounter between singer David Shaw and guitarist Zack Feinberg steadily leading to an octet that rose from the dingiest dives to the grandest American concert halls and amphitheaters. mpaconline.org/the-revivalists
November 18 & 21
Art Crawl: Little Landscapes 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 The MMFA is excited for the addition of the infant-focused art program, Art Crawl. Partnering with the Clyfford Still Museum, where the program originated, Art Crawl is an uplifting opportunity for infants to have a meaningful formative experience with art and their caregiver. Both parents and caregivers will be a part of this journey and learn with their children. Due to the age range of participants, pre-registration is required. Kaylee Hobbs at kahobbs@mmfa.org
Thursday, November 19
Mahjong in the Morning 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Autauga-Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St, Prattville, AL 36067 The library will provide one mahjong set. This is a casual meetup, not a lesson or tournament. Come play a game, practice your skills, and have fun! https://appl.info/event/mahjong-in-the-morning/
Friday, November 20
Masterworks II: Beloved Traditions (Tickets range from $10 to $42) 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts, 251 Montgomery Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Ludwig van BEETHOVEN and Johannes BRAHMS. www.montgomerysymphony.org/mw2/ Masterclass Trap Orchestra Tour Featuring Boosie ($59 - $199, additional fees may apply.) 8:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, Montgomery, AL Simply put — The Masterclass is where your favorite hip-hop legend meets a live symphony orchestra… and the culture levels UP. We’re not just a concert. We are style. We are culture.We are a luxury experience wrapped in rhythm, power, and pure energy. mpaconline.org
Saturday, November 21
Robert Earl Keen Then And Now With Special Guest Taylor Hunnicutt ($32.50 - $75.50, additional fees may apply.) 8:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, Montgomery, AL No two creative lives unfold the same way, and for Robert Earl Keen, the story was never going to end with a quiet retreat. After decades on the road, with 21 albums, countless shows, songs sung by legends like George Strait and The Highwaymen, and honors ranging from the BMI
Troubadour Award to the Texas A&M Distinguished Alumni Award, he might have had every reason to slow down. But Keen has always seen the open road as a beginning, never an end. mpaconline.org/robert-earl-keen/
and other major programs, with more appearances planned throughout the year. mpaconline.org/the-temptations/
Monday, November 23
6th Annual Move Montgomery Gobble Wobble 5K Run/Walk 8:00 AM - 10:30 AM, Cloverdale Road Park, 3124 Cloverdale Rd. Montgomery, Alabama 36106 The MOVE MGM Gobble Wobble is back—and this year, we’re excited to bring Montgomery’s favorite Thanksgivingweek tradition to Cloverdale! Join us for a lively, family-friendly 5K that encourages our community to stay active, connect with neighbors, and kick off the holiday season with gratitude, movement, and fun. Registration for the event is FREE! www.montgomeryal.gov
Turkey Thankfulness Craft Autauga-Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St, Prattville, AL 36067 Celebrate Thanksgiving with a turkeythemed thankfulness craft! Stop by the Children’s Room to create your own turkey and write one thing you’re thankful for on each feather. This come-and-go activity is available while supplies last! https://appl.info/event/turkey-thankfulness-craft/
November 24 – 29, 2026
Drop-In Art Workshop (DRAW): Stained Glass Leaves 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Drop by the ArtWorks Interactive Gallery between 10 AM and 1 PM for creative activities inspired by the permanent collection, temporary exhibitions, and the art all around us. This free program is appropriate for all ages but focused more for our visitors under the age of 10. Activities are on a first-come, first-served basis. Registration is not required. mmfa.org
Tuesday, November 24
Banned Book Club Montgomery City-County Public Library, 245 High St. Montgomery, AL 36104 Join us and discuss the books that should’ve been on your shelf. https://mccpl.lib.al.us The Great Iron Bowl Election 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM, Autauga-Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St, Prattville, AL 36067 Alabama vs. Auburn—it’s time to make your prediction! Swing by the library between 10:30am and 11:30am to cast your vote for who you think will win the Iron Bowl, decorate a team-inspired creation, and grab a treat. Wear your team colors and show your spirit as we celebrate this classic Alabama rivalry! appl.info/event/the-great-iron-bowl-election-party/ Quick Crafts! 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM, Autauga-Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St, Prattville, AL 36067 Adult Program Ages18+. TAKE AND MAKE KIT! Minute-to-Win-It Thanksgiving Games Snag a bundle of games to liven up your Thanksgiving with a side of family fun! https://appl.info/event/quick-crafts-6/
Wednesday, November 25
Thanksgiving Scavenger Hunt 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Autauga-Prattville Public Library, 254 Doster St, Prattville, AL 36067 Celebrate Thanksgiving with a book-themed scavenger hunt! Stop by and search for books throughout the library. Once you’ve completed the hunt, bring your sheet to the front desk to claim a prize. This come-and-go activity is available while supplies last! https://appl.info/event/thanksgiving-scavenger-hunt/ The Temptations with Special Guest Ruban Studdard ($50 - $80, additional fees may apply.) 8:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, Montgomery, AL Celebrating the 60th anniversary of their first #1 hit, “My Girl,” The Temptations launched their milestone celebration with a show-stopping appearance on the Wonder float at the 98th Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. They followed with national TV appearances on The Today Show, The View, CNN,
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Friday, November 27
Saturday, November 28
Gather Montgomery: Fall Arts & Crafts Festival 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Cramton Bowl, 1022 Madison Ave. Montgomery, Alabama 36104 Celebrate the season and support local makers at the Gather Montgomery Fall Arts & Crafts Festival! montgomeryal.gov
Sunday, November 29
Sketching in the Galleries 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Join art instructor Phil Jasen for the official launch of the Sketching in the Galleries program, supported by a space dedicated to sketching with the brand new Sketching in the Gallery exhibition. This quarterly program is intended for ages 13 and up, and it is open to artists of all skill levels. Supplies will be provided; participants are welcome to bring their own sketchbooks. Donovan Brock at dbrock@mmfa.org
Sunday, December 6
Brian Free & Assurance and Jeff & Sherri Easter 8:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, Montgomery, AL Multiple Dove Awards, chart-topping music, and, most recently, a 2024 Grammy nomination have sustained Brian Free & Assurance’s presence at the forefront of Christian music for over 30 years. A dedication to sharing music that resonates with people everywhere, and a commitment to sharing the Gospel keeps them on the path of changing lives with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. mpaconline.org/brian-free-assurance
Every 1st Saturday through December 5
Montgomery Street Market Trail 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Combining our love for the outdoors with community engagement, the Montgomery Street Market Trail is a walkable 1-mile, open air marketplace for wellness, culture, and commerce every first Saturday in Montgomery, Alabama. Be sure to follow @montgomerystreetmarkettrail on IG and Facebook for updates. www.montgomerystreetmarkettrail.com/
Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.
www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents
KT: Friendships can be hard, especially during the teenage years. I remind my girls that friendships come and go, and sometimes people don’t see eye to eye. That is part of life. You cannot let one difficult situation or one person’s opinion determine how you feel about yourself. RRP: How do you approach social media with your daughters? KT: They are allowed to have social media, but it is monitored. I think it is important for them to understand that what they put online does not simply disappear. They need to be mindful of how they present themselves and how their online presence reflects who they are. I want them to think before they post and remember that their character matters more than likes or comments. It is about helping them make responsible decisions and understand that their choices can have lasting consequences.
Katie Turner RRP: Tell us a little about your family and what life looks like at the Turner house.
RRP: What does self-care look like for you? KT: I love to clean and organize! Having things in order helps me feel like I can breathe a little easier. I also love taking girls’ trips. Sometimes getting away, spending time with friends, and laughing together is exactly what you need. I think moms spend so much time taking care of everyone else that we have to remember to make time for ourselves, too.
KT: Life with three girls is hectic, but it is also fun. Chloe is 23 and is getting ready to start at Troy University. Amelia is 17 and a senior. She stays busy with cheerleading, FFA, band, choir, and SGA. Harper is 15 and in the 10th grade, and she is a cheerleader, too. There is always something going on. My husband, William, works in the school system as a teacher and boys’ basketball coach, so our schedules can get pretty crazy.
RRP: What are you most proud of outside of your family? KT: I am passionate about my work at Baptist East, and I volunteer with the March of Dimes through my job. Supporting mothers and babies means a great deal to me. Contributing to that mission makes my work even more rewarding. RRP: What do you hope your daughters remember most about you? KT: I hope they remember that it is never too late to pursue your goals. I went to nursing school later in my career, and I want them to see that you can persevere and accomplish things even when the timing is not what you originally imagined. I want them to know they are capable of more than they may realize. Life will not always go according to plan, but that does not mean you give up.
RRP: You moved to the area during Hurricane Katrina. How did that experience change your life? KT: We came here during Hurricane Katrina because we had family in the area. At the time, my job and daycare were destroyed, and so much about our lives was uncertain. Looking back, I realize that if that had not happened, my life might look completely different today. Sometimes the things you never would have chosen for yourself end up leading you exactly where you are supposed to be.
Rapid Fire What’s one word that describes your motherhood journey? Fulfilling Five minutes of silence or five extra minutes of sleep? Sleep! One little thing that instantly makes your day better. A sunset. Ever hidden in the bathroom to get a moment alone? Of course! What’s one thing your kids do that drives you absolutely crazy? Putting empty snack boxes back in the pantry.
RRP: What values are most important to you as a mom? KT: More than anything, I want my girls to be kind. I want them to understand that life will put them in difficult situations, and how they respond says a lot about who they are. I want them to show grace toward others, even when it is not easy. I also want them to know their worth and to treat people the way they want to be treated.
Katie Turner is a devoted wife, mother of three daughters, and healthcare professional at Baptist East. She is passionate about helping mothers and babies. In her free time, Katie enjoys organizing, girls’ trips, and making memories with family and friends.
RRP: What challenges have you faced while raising girls, especially during the teenage years?
River Region Parents I November 2026
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