June 21 - River Region Parents Flipbook

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Are Your Children Protected?

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Congratulations to the CLASS OF 2021!

“Preparing our students for life” is the foundation of our mission. As each senior walks the graduation platform and moves their tassel from right to left, they cross into an exciting new chapter of life with the skills and self-confidence they need to pursue their dreams, make positive contributions in their communities, and reach for the goals they have set for themselves.

As we send them off one by one, we congratulate our newly-minted alumni and look forward to witnessing them each fulfill their potential for a life of “responsibility, service, and achievement.”

Pre-K3−12th Grade

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Saint James School

334-273-3021 or STJweb.org

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR LIFE Call today for more information on tuition assistance and affording a Saint James 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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Soccer Player

Math Whiz

Loyal Friend

Dyslexic

Creative

Does Your Bright Child Struggle with Reading, Writing, and Spelling?

Parent Consultations

Dyslexia Testing

Customized Intervention

Check out warning signs of dyslexia at readwritelearningcenter.com River Region Parents I June 2021

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FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH MONTGOMERY

VBS // JUNE 21-25, 2021 9:00 AM to Noon // Ages 4* through 6th grade // Free LIMITED SPACE AVAILABLE // REGISTRATION REQUIRED BY JUNE 13

montgomeryfbc.org/vbs *Child must have turned 4 by August 31, 2020 to attend VBS.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH montgomery

305 South Perry Street // Montgomery, AL 36104 // 334.834.6310 3

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June2021 52

Volume 26 Number 6

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Columns 8 Kids Say the Wisest Things Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

14 Montgomery Education Matters

by Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Interim Superintendent

Dads Rock!

The positive impact of supportive dads and father figures.

Making the Move

How to ease the transition for your kids when relocating.

33 Pike Road Education Matters

by Superintendent Charles Ledbetter, Ed.D.

45 Elmore Education Matters

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by Superintendent Richard Dennis

50 Unleashing Your Potential

by Keon Addison

56 Dinner’s Ready

by Kimberley Carter Spivey

Newcomers Guide

Our top picks to help your family connect with the community.

When Your Best Doesn’t Feel Like Enough

68 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Tips to change your perspective.

Departments On The Cover Trey and Tiffany Sippial live in The Waters in Pike Road, AL. Trey grew up in Pike Road. He is a real estate broker and investor and owns River Region Realty Group, LLC. Tiffany, a native Texan, is Professor of History and Director of the Honors College at Auburn University main campus. Their youngest son, Rhys, will turn seven this summer and attends Pike Road Elementary School. Trey and Tiffany also have three grown sons: Sean (28), Mackenzie (23), and Joshua (22).

12 Teacher of the Month 16 School Bits 78 Grading the Movies 80 Mom to Mom

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Editor’sNote

Parents

As moms and dads, we start our parenting journey with high hopes and big expectations of how our families will exist in the world. We want to give our children the very best care, guidance, and love... and we strive tirelessly to that end.

Yet, inevitably, the messiness of life gets in the way of our “parenting dreams”. While we have many mountain top moments (as expected), we also have numerous and unexpected difficulties that weren’t part of “the dream”. And while our unique parenting struggles are different from our neighbor’s, what many of us have in common is the feeling that we have tried to give our best to our kids. WE ARE TRYING... but it doesn’t feel like enough. Thoughts like these can cause us to heap guilt upon ourselves, thinking we must have missed “that” or must be doing “this” wrong. If you find yourself in the Mommy (or Daddy) Guilt Club more often than you’d like, turn to page 72 where Sarah Lyons offers a fresh perspective in, When Your Best Doesn’t Feel Like Enough. Hopefully, in giving ourselves more grace, we can change our self-talk from “My best just ISN’T enough” to “I’m doing the best I can and that IS enough”.

Something we can all be proud of is getting our families through more than a year of pandemic, coupled with a strange and difficult school year. I’d say we’ve earned a few months to celebrate now that school is out and life is opening back up outside of our homes and neighborhoods. We have several spots in this month’s issue where you’ll find activities and events for your family to enjoy. Our Bits & Pieces on page 10 highlights some of the best community outings coming up in June and July. And we’ve dedicated page 70 specifically to Independence Day activities in the River Region. For even more fun, turn to the Family Calendar which, after a major dry spell, is finally full of options to enjoy.

If you are a newcomer to our area, you’ve picked up the perfect issue of River Region Parents. Our 2021 Family Newcomers Guide is dedicated to helping you connect with the community as we list our top picks for where to learn, where to play, where kids eat free and much more!

Finally, don’t forget Father’s Day on June 20th! As Christa Hines shares in this month’s feature, Dads Rock!, the positive impact of supportive dads and father figures in our children’s lives is priceless. Happy Father’s Day to all the men who fill our lives with joy! We appreciate your sacrifices and your love.

School is out...summer is here. Take a moment to pat yourself on the back, take a deep breath and enjoy your family!

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 editor@riverregionparents.com

Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Keon Addison Katie Blair Richard Dennis Christa Melnyk Hines Dr. Charles Ledbetter Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Sarah Lyons Dr. Ann Roy Moore Kimberley Carter Spivey

Cover Photography Judy Barranco www.judybarrancophotography.com

Publisher Jason Watson jason@riverregionparents.com

Advertising Department (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 adservices@keepsharing.com Digital Manager Scott Davis

DeAnne

Ad Design Tim Welch

editor@riverregionparents.com

Member

River Region Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. River Region Parents is copyrighted 2021 by KeepSharing 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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• It’s safe, simple, and free of charge.

• It could keep you from getting COVID-19. If you still get COVID-19, it could keep you from becoming seriously ill.

• It will help you do your part to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of your family, your friends and your community.

• It’s an mRNA vaccine. These types of vaccines have been studied for more than two decades to evaluate their safety and effectiveness.

• It’s the first step toward life returning to normal.

alabamapublichealth.gov/covid19 7

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by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

“What’s the Big Deal... I Just Get a Little Mad” I spend my days hearing concerned parents say, “This child has an anger problem.” That statement is almost always followed by a child saying, “I just get a little mad.”

I then proceed to ask the parents several questions.

1. How do they display their anger (crying, tantrums, aggression)?

2. How long does the episode last?

3. Can you tell me the entire story of the last time they were angry (before, during, after)?

The answers to these questions determine what we do next. Sometimes intense displays of anger require the help of a professional because the child needs to be clinically evaluated. Most of the time, the child simply does not have the skill of emotional regulation.

Emotional regulation is when we deal with negative emotions in a healthy manner. The process of learning emotional regulation is lifelong. No human has perfectly mastered this difficult skill. Let’s be honest, we adults are not always the best models of it. I am far from having this skill mastered. A few years ago, my most

River Region Parents I June 2021

important goal for a family trip to NYC was to take the subway out to Coney Island, ride the Cyclone, and eat a Coney Dog. Unfortunately, the Pope was visiting and the UN was in session, so normal transit routes were altered. After trying several routes with no success, I sat down on the floor of a Brooklyn subway stop and cried. I should have been able to control my own disappointment over such a silly thing, but in that moment, I failed and failed miserably.

Despite my emotional regulation disaster, my family was able to look past my meltdown, go to Coney Island, and make a beautiful memory.

We have all experienced an eruption of our child’s negative feelings. This can look like “a spoiled child”, “bad behavior”, or an “emotional problem”. The simple truth is, they do not have the ability to stay emotionally regulated in hard moments.

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Here are some tips on how to teach your children this important skill.

1. Help them memorize the names and definitions of basic emotions. Do this through books, facial expressions, songs, videos, etc.

2. Instead of punishing an emotional outburst, have them repeatedly practice an appropriate response. Practice is the best teacher.

3. Make sure you are modeling appropriate behaviors when you react to life’s ups and downs.

4. Ensure you are encouraging everything that is positive. Kids who have anger issues sometimes feel over corrected or over criticized. They may not be, it may only be their perception.

5. After an outburst, laugh with them about their anger. There is a definite art form to this, but it is important to teach children to laugh at and learn from their mistakes.

6. Use a video from the internet to show an example of a tantrum, talk about how silly it is, and practice an appropriate response.

7. Be careful and say “no” only when necessary. Do not make a habit of changing your “no” to “yes”.

8. Let your children have their emotions (you have no control over it anyway). Just make sure you are not reinforcing their outbursts by giving into them for your own comfort or to avoid your own embarrassment.

In life’s difficult moments be loving and wise. Sometimes the best response is to ignore the outburst, hail a cab, and go to Coney Island.

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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Congratulations to the Class of 2021!

146th Graduating Class 90 Graduates 33 Colleges 14 States $7.6 Million in Scholarships

This is Catholic.

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Family Events with the Montgomery Biscuits For more info on any of these events, visit https://www.milb.com/montgomery/ or call (334) 819-7483.

4th Annual Gun Island Chute Cup

Saturday, June 26 * 9:30 a.m.-noon Riverfront Park, 355 Commerce Street This year’s Stand-Up Paddleboard races have expanded to include registrations for canoes and kayaks, as well as a youthonly 1-mile course! Register for either the 3-mile or 6-mile courses with a SUP board, Tandem Canoe, Solo Canoe, or Solo Kayak. Youths aged 8-18 may register for the 1-Mile course. For registration info and more details, visit https://paddleguru.com/races/.

Garden Fun @ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays through June 26 * 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

This spring, families can enjoy outdoor games and art activities in the Garden.

Visitors can play with giant building blocks, Connect Four, and cornhole on the lawn, read children’s art books under the trees, play makebelieve with our puppet stage, and create colorful patterns with our weaving wall.

Families will also be able to take part in art activities in our outdoor Education Courtyard. For more info, call (334) 625-4333 or visit https://mmfa.org/.

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* Military Wednesdays June 2, 9 & 30 We thank all the members of our Armed Forces on Wednesdays by offering ticket, drink and food specials and discounts! * T-Shirt Giveaways June 3, 10 & July 1 The first 1,000 fans 15 & older through the gates will go home with a T-shirt presented by different spon-sors each week. * Giveaway Nights June 4, 11 & July 2 We’re giving away different items each week to the first 1,000 fans! *‘90s Night with MAX Fireworks June 5 Hear your favorite ‘90s music and see your favorite clips between innings while enjoying food & drink options inspired by the 1990s. Stick around after the game for a MAX Fireworks Show! * Poster Giveaway & Bark in the Park June 6 We’ll celebrate the Tampa Bay Ray with a poster giveaway to the first 500 kids 14 & under. Bring your leashed 4-legged friend with you. Don’t forget to join the Lil’ Crumbs Kids Club pres. by Go Fish Ala-bama, offering complimentary Sunday game tickets along with a variety of other perks.

Family Faith Night with MAX Fireworks June 12 Join us for the first of two Family Faith Nights at Riverwalk Stadium. Enjoy faithbased music and themes all ending with a MAX Fireworks Show.

Good Mornings

June 14-July 29 9 a.m.-noon.

Frazer UMC Activity Center.

Cost for rising first- through sixth-graders is $6 each day, and $8 each day for early drop-off (8 a.m.). For more info, e-mail lcraig@frazer.church.

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Summer Nights @ The Shoppes

Every Thursday in June * 7-9 p.m., located near H&M at EastChase.

This free, live music series, formerly known as Sounds of Summer, brings the best of local music and beyond! Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, pups and the entire family for a free fun night. Inflatable, glitter tattoos and balloons for the kiddos. Food trucks and giveaways every week. Visit theshoppesateastchase.com or follow The Shoppes on Facebook and Instagram.

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Montgomery Exotic Pet Expo

June 11-12 * 6-10 p.m.

The Alexander City Jazz Fest, a nonticketed event, will be held over two nights.

Friday night is in Strand Park, downtown Alex City, and Saturday night at The AMP on Lake Martin. For more info, call (256) 397-1019 or visit www.alexcityjazzfest.com.

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9 a.m.-5 p.m. June 5 10 a.m.-4 p.m. June 6 Alcazar Shriners, 555 Eastern Blvd.

Including face painting, mini pigs, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, finches, various species of parrots, geckos, various species of snakes, tarantulas, scorpions, frogs, dry goods, frozen feeders, feeder insects, supplies, and more!

Admission is $3 for ages 12 and up; free for under the age of 12. For more info, find us on Facebook. www.riverregionparents.com

FREE Movie Night Under the Stars

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June 17- July 22 * 7:15-10 p.m. Armory Learning Arts Center, Montgomery.

For six Thursday nights, we will celebrate the 1950s and 1960s with six classics that are both enjoyable and family-friendly. Bring a blanket, a lawn chair, some re-freshments, and enjoy! For more info, find us on Facebook or call John at (646) 241-7139.

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Area 4th of July Events

P.E. Classes with Keon

Wetumpka Independence Day Fireworks July 3 @ 8:30 p.m. Gold Star Park Sponsored by Wind Creek Casino.

Independence Day Parade in Prattville July 3 @ 9 a.m. Downtown Prattville For more info, call (334) 595-0850.

Patriotic Night w/ MAX Fireworks at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game July 3 @ 6:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium On the eve of Independence Day, we get the party started early and celebrate all things AMERICA! Stick around after the game for a MAX Fireworks Show.

Independence Day Celebration w/ MAX Fireworks at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game July 4 @ 6:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium Few things are more American than catching a baseball game and watching some MAX Fireworks on the 4th of July, so join us!

For more info, visit https://www.milb.com/ montgomery/ or call (334) 819-7483.

FREE Virtual P.E. Classes for All Ages Every Friday beginning June 21, 2021 at 8:30 am on Facebook: Live. For more information, contact Keon Addison on Facebook at Unleashed Potential Fitness.

Juneteenth Celebration

June 19 * 11 a.m.-6 p.m. * Rosa Parks Museum, 252 Montgomery St. This event is free to the public and includes local food and merchant vendors, live music, and complimentary tours of the museum.

Our goal is to celebrate African American freedom with a focus on education, achievement and bringing people together from all walks of life to honestly recognize our shared history. For more info, call (334) 241-5815 or find us on Facebook.

Advice for the expected and unexpected.

with Coach K

Eastchase Farmers Market

7 a.m.-noon * Saturdays through Sept.

More than 40 vendors featuring homemade breads, jams, baked goods, Wagyu beef, local honey and more! Visit theshoppesateastchase.com or follow The Shoppes on FB and Instagram.

LLC

Cindy Cornette,

CFP®, CRPC®

Financial Advisor

334.279.1174

Cindy.Cornette@ampf.com

Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC, Member FINRA and SIPC. © 2020 Ameriprise Financial, Inc. All rights reserved.

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Lori Knight Peter Crump Elementary School

to develop a life-long dream of learning. Any kind-hearted teacher will tell you, “That’s my job. To serve my students to the best of my abilities.” Ms. Knight believes being a teacher is rewarding, life-changing, and time-consuming. But every day brings something new.

As we were eager to interview Lori, we couldn’t avoid asking the question—why did you choose to become a third-grade teacher? Her response: “Teaching third grade is such a wonderful grade. Third graders are so eager to learn. It is a year of growth, socially and academically. Most third graders know how to read now, and they are learning to love to read. It is such an important year to get their reading skills perfected to progress in the future. They are applying concepts and strategies they have learned to accomplish tasks.”

When you think of a third-grade teacher, the words caring, compassionate, and creative may come to mind. And those words couldn’t be more fitting when it comes to one of Peter Crump’s finest elementary teachers—Lori Knight. It takes a big heart and patience to serve as a teacher. And Lori has done a phenomenal job of exemplifying what it truly means to be an educator. One parent says, “She loves her third-grade students and is always helpful. And being that it’s later in the year, she’s working longer hours with her virtual students who may need extra help. Her tone is always positive towards her students.”

Lori has taught for 20 years in the Montgomery Public School system. Within those two decades, she’s learned that a teacher is more than just a “teacher.” Teachers wear a lot of hats and take on roles and responsibilities that sometimes are unknown. Lori says, “Teaching means having the ability to be a combination of being a parent, coach, and hopefully, an influencer for young lives

River Region Parents I June 2021

Lori Knight has one child who’s 20 years old and majoring in Engineering at Auburn University. After retirement, Ms. Knight plans to stay involved with academics through tutoring and substituting.

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Connect with us.

It is our mission to serve and live out the credit union motto of people helping people.

We strive to do this every day in building long lasting connections with our members and local communities. We work together to provide financial solutions and collaboratively build a community of support. Guardian is proud to be the local credit union and is ready to serve you.

MyGuardianCU.com

334.244.9999

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www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents Federally insured by NCUA.

Learning Opportunities Are All Around An unusual and challenging school year has ended and summer has begun.

This is a great time for some well-earned fun and relaxation, but we must remember that learning is a continuing and lifelong process. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways to have fun and learn at the same time.

First of all, I’m delighted so many parents signed up for the MPS Launch into Learning summer program. I hope that if you did sign up, your students are enjoying the experience. Summer enrichment is always important, but this year it is more important than ever that we fight learning loss and complete unfinished learning from the school year.

River Region Parents I June 2021

Even if you have signed up for the summer learning program, the learning doesn’t have to stop there. Just taking a walk outside can offer a wealth of learning activities. One of the great things about this time of year is seeing all the plants in bloom.

Identify a type of plant for them, and then see how many of those plants they can spot during the walk. Have them use their senses to identify different aspects of the natural world around them. Time in nature is also healing and beneficial to mental health, and even very young children can benefit from these types of activities.

For other lessons, you don’t even need to leave the house. For instance, there are many ways to teach children about math using measurements. In the kitchen, you can talk about the different amounts of water, flour, or salt you use for a particular recipe. You can discuss the different tools you use for measurement and the different types of measures such as cups and ounces. You can measure their

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height and yours or find out how many steps it takes to get from one part of the house to another.

Finally, one of the most important lessons we can teach our children is kindness. Start by asking how it makes them feel when someone is kind to them. We can also model behavior for them by getting involved in community activities or simply offering help to family members or neighbors who are in need. Let them know the positive impact they can have on other people’s lives through even the simplest act of kindness.

So enjoy the summer, and I hope you take advantage of some of the great educational opportunities it offers.

For more than four decades, Dr. Moore has educated the children of Alabama. From her first post as a pre-school teacher, to her administrative work as a principal, central office curriculum specialist, superintendent, and her mentoring the next generation of teachers as an adjunct professor at colleges and universities, teaching is her passion.

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for patient care that requires less patience.

In order to be truly helpful to you, healthcare has to be convenient and accessible. That’s why, at Jackson Hospital and Clinic, we offer services designed around your life. Like one-number scheduling for all of our primary care offices, telehealth appointments and JacksonCONNECT, which lets you access your health history, test results and much more anytime. Plus, as we continue to add more primary care locations, getting the care you need will just keep getting easier.

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Montgomery County Schools

MPS Students Place In Arts Contest

Three Montgomery Public Schools students placed in the 2021 National PTA Reflections program. They were among only six total in the entire state to place nationally.

Minjae Eum of LAMP High won an Award of Excellence in the Musical Competition. Kristopher Roton of Booker T. Washington Magnet High won an Award of Merit in Photography. Gaia Moore of BTW won an Award of Merit in Dance Choreography.

Roton’s winning photograph is shown.

STJ Art Students Place in AISA Contest

Saint James high school art students made a great showing at the Alabama Independent School Association District 5 Art Competition held April 23. Saint James had 18 high school students compete. Of those, ten re-ceived awards.

The following students placed in their listed division: Best of Show & 1st Place Drawing No Color - Natalie Magee; 1st Place – Printmaking - Luke Beasley; 1st Place - Photography - Sierra Boles; 1st Place - Mixed Media - Alexander McHorne; 1st Place - Acrylic Painting - Maddie Shields; 1st Place - Three Dimensional - Jordan Wesley; 2nd Place - Gouache - Sydney Eng; 2nd Place - Mixed Media - Logann Dean; 3rd Place Three Dimensional - Aijah Robinson; and 3rd Place - Photography - Kate Rees.

In the High School Division, first- and second-place winners moved on to the AISA State Competition May 11 at Faulkner University.

Front row from left are: Aijah Robinson, Jordan Wesley, Logann Dean, Kate Rees and Sydney Eng; back row: Sierra Boles, Alexander McHorne, Luke Beasley, Natalie Magee and Maddie Shields.

Academy Student Earns Hitchcock Award

Montgomery Academy’s Leighton Robertson was named the 2021 Jimmy Hitchcock Award Female Recipient! She is the 15th overall Hitchcock winner from MA. Robertson is a member of the MA track, soccer and basketball teams. She is captain of both the basketball and soccer teams, has more than 1,000 career basketball points, has been named to the 3A AllArea basketball team 9-12 grades, and was CCC player of the year. In soccer, she is a three-time state champion and was named to the 2020 North-South All-Star team.

Robertson is Student Council president, serves on the FCA leadership team, is vice president of the English Honor Society, secretary-treasurer of the H.E.A.R.T. club, and has a 4.5 GPA.

Author Visits Macon East Students

Macon East Academy students were treated to a visit from children’s book author Blaire Carter Graham. She shared her book called Nugget’s Prayer with the students and even brought Nugget along for lots of love. Graham lives on Laurel Hill Farm in Shorter, Ala., and has lots of animals she uses for inspiration for her books.

Graham aims to inspire young and old readers to be strong and confident about who they are and where they are from. She also wants readers to know the importance of friends and family. One Bible verse she holds close to her heart is Joshua 1:9. “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. Do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

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Montgomery County Schools

Brew Tech Teacher Receives AFA Honor

Brewbaker Technology Magnet High engineering teacher Steve Ballard was named the Alabama Air Force Association’s Aerospace/STEM Teacher of the Year. The AFA awards Teacher of the Year honors on the state and national level to encourage aerospace education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics. Ballard leads the engineering department at Brew Tech, including a robotics program that has racked up numerous awards through the years. Many of his students have gone on to great careers in engineering.

Montgomery Academy Teacher Honored by Gov. Ivey

Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey issued a commendation recognizing Montgomery Academy teacher Connie Deal’s dedicated service to the state of Alabama and arts education. Deal was named the Art Educator of the Year by the Alabama Art Education Association and Outstanding Educator for the State of Alabama by the Visual Arts Achievement Program of the Alabama State Council on the Arts.

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Congratulations Class of 2021

Macon East Academy graduates have been accepted to the following Colleges & Universities:

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Alabama A & M University Alabama State University Appalachian State University Arkansas State University Auburn University Auburn University Montgomery Baptist Bible College Belhaven University Belmont University Birmingham Southern College Brenau University Coastal Alabama Community College (Brewton) • Covenant College • Faulkner University

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Florida Southern College Florida State College Full Sail University Georgia Southern University Georgia Southwestern State College Huntingdon College Jacksonville State University Kennesaw State University Liberty University Lipscomb University Lurleen B Wallace Community College Miles College Memphis University Mercer University

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Middle Tennessee State University Mississippi College Mississippi State University Northwood College Roanoke College Samford University Shelton State Community College Southern Union State Community College Spring Hill College The University of Alabama The University of Alabama Birmingham The University of Alabama Huntsville The University of Mississippi The University of Mobile

• The University of Tennessee • Trenholm State Technical Community College • Troy University • University of Arkansas • University of Kentucky • University of Memphis • University of Montevallo • University of North Alabama • University of South Alabama • University of West Alabama • University of West Florida • University of West Georgia

Macon East Academy is proud to recognize the graduating Class of 2021. The 36-member class earned approximately $3.1 million in merit-based and athletic scholarships. Members of the Class of 2021 were accepted to a total of 54 colleges and universities. In their senior year, the Class of 2021 led the athletics program to State Championships in boys basketball and a state runner-up title in softball. Five members of this year’s class have signed athletic scholarships to participate at the collegiate level. Each graduate is representative of the high standards of academic achievement, student life, and Christian values that are the foundation of Macon East Academy. We are proud of these graduates and ready to see them lead the way.

Macon East acadEMy Knights 15396 Vaughn Road | maconeast.net | 334.277.6566

We are located only 10 minutes from Chantilly Parkway, serving the Pike Road and surrounding communities.

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Montgomery County Schools

STJ Middle School Art Students Compete

Saint James middle school art students competed in the AISA District Art Competition. Art teacher Bethany Davis said the students have shown wonderful growth as artists this school year. The following were were awarded in the following divisions: 6th grade Printmaking: 1st place - Kaleigh Soto and Drawing color: 1st place - Kaleigh Soto; 7th8th grade Painting: 1st place - Mae Puckett; Printmaking: 1st place - Izzy Pappas and 3rd place - Bridget Shaffer; Drawing non-color: 1st place - MaryEllis Killough, 2nd place - MaryEllis Killough and 3rd place - Stella Kim; 3-D Arts/crafts Needle Felting: 2nd place - Davie Hipp.

Winning pieces by Saint James Middle School artists are shown.

MA Girls’ Soccer Wins State Championship

Montgomery Academy girls’ soccer team won the 4A-5A championship. In the championship game, the girls defeated Saint John Paul II 6-1. Leighton Robertson was named MVP. This is the fourth consecutive state championship for girls’ soccer and ninth for the program.

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

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Eastwood Congratulates Alumni Author

Eastwood Christian School graduate Erin Kate Powe has released her first book publication, Consolations in the Night. Powe compiled her writings and designed the cover for her book.

She recently graduated from Auburn University. Her book can be purchased from Lulu.com.

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Evangel Christian Academy Encouraging each child to achieve their God-given potential

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

Brew Tech Robotics Team Heads for State

Two teams from Brewbaker Technology Magnet High qualified this year for the Alabama VEX Robotics Virtual State Championship. BrewTech has had teams qualify each year since 2012 for the Alabama State Championship and has had teams go on to participate in the VEX World Championships eight times.

Normally the state championship would be held on the campus of Auburn University and have 45 to 50 teams competing with an audience of around 450 people but, because of COVID, things were a little different this year. Thanks to the pandemic and the switch to virtual learning, the Brew Tech robotics program had significant setbacks, so qualifying was a bigger accomplishment than usual.

Members of the two teams are Robert Parker, Chris Smith, Brady Tolerson and William Lawlor. They are shown practicing at the school.

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BTW Student Receives Rotary Scholarship

The Montgomery Sunrise Rotary Club has awarded Tiarra Smith of Booker T. Washington Magnet High a $1,500 scholarship. In fact, the Rotary Club increased its scholarship amount from $1,000 to $1,500 because of Smith’s passionate commitment to community service.

Smith plans to attend Alabama A&M University to study civil engineering in the fall. She also received a $20,000 Heritage Gold scholarship from Alabama A&M and a $40,000 Future of STEM Scholars Initiative scholarship.

ECA Students Place at District Art Show

The Alabama Independent School Association District Art Show was recently held in Montgomery. The event included artwork from all of the AISA schools in the Montgomery area. Several students from Evangel Christian Academy won awards. Kassidy Brown, Jeremiah Bradford, Cayde Williams, and Skylar Romain all won first place. They are all shown above.

Several students took home second-place ribbons. These students were Izzy Wright, Gisele Brown, Ryleigh Caldwell, Deasia Shipman and Lailah Watts. Several students also placed third. These included Alonna Huffman, Chloe Johnson, Evalynn ZeiglerRose, Ryleigh Caldwell, Reese Anderson, Kennedy Softley and Karissa Brown.

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ACA Partners with Feed the Need

Alabama Christian Academy hosted a four week-long campaign to raise $100,000 and pack 10,000 meals to distribute between Montgomery and Haiti. ACA’s students and faculty showed up and showed out. They raised more than $120,000 and were able to pack 20,000 meals to distribute throughout the tri-county area and Haiti. Each of the students and several parents got to participate in the packing party on May 14.

They were able to scoop, pour and seal the food packets and then turn around and box them up to prepare them to be sent overseas.

MEA Students Attend Alfa Conference

An elite group of ninth- and tenth-graders from throughout Alabama attended the Alfa Youth Leadership Conference at the 4-H Center in Columbiana April 29-30. Macon East Academy representatives included: Anna Watson, Wade Desmarais, Ryan Russell, Matthew Kitchens, Anna Glynn Lott and Jack Jones.

Students applied for the conference which focused on training future leaders. It is sponsored by the Alabama Farmers Federation, Alabama Farmers Agriculture Foundation, county farmers federations and Alabama Farm Credit (AFC). Attendees came from 30 counties and worked to identify personal strengths, develop negotiation skills and discover a passion for service. The agenda included team-building activities at the 4-H Center’s challenge course and teen safety workshops. AFC was a new supporter of the program this year and sponsored motivational speaker and leadership trainer Rhett Laubach, who challenged students to be a positive influence on their peers.

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As part of their study of animals, Montgomery Academy third-graders visited the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Students applied what they’ve learned in science to observe wildlife more closely.

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Catholic Boys’ Track Wins State Championships

Academy Students Win Math Olympiad

April 30-May 1, the Montgomery Catholic boys’ track & field team won the 3A state championship in Cullman, Ala. Many personal records and school records were set by this astounding group of athletes. Led by coaches Hollis Johnson, Coy Hunter and Raheem Armstrong, the Catholic boys brought home the school’s first-ever outdoor track & field state title.

“I didn’t really have any expectations,” said Sam Leslie, one of the senior captains and distance runners on Montgomery Catholic’s track team. “I knew going in that I had to do the best that I could. I knew that we could win, but I didn’t know that we would win.” Leslie has been running for Montgomery Catholic since the seventh grade. When asked about what his fondest memories were running for Catholic, Leslie replied, “Winning state in outdoor this season and winning state in cross country back in 2018.”

For the sprinting events, Jeremiah Cobb led the way for the Catholic Knights, winning the 100-meter dash with a time of 10.88 and winning the 200-meter dash with a time of 22.21. Cobb also placed second in the 400-meter dash, scoring big for the team.

Other points were accumulated as well, with E.J. Babies placing fourth in the 200-meter dash, Matthew Galvin placing sixth in the 400-meter dash, and Kylon Griffin placing eighth in the 100-meter hurdles. The 4x400-meter relay, run by Titus Franklin, Dylan Tyynismaa, Jamerion Augustus and Matthew Galvin, placed second overall and the 4x100-meter relay, run by DJ Carter, Javen Augustus, E.J. Babies and Jeremiah Cobb, placed seventh overall.

On the distance side, Harrison Skala, Hollis Johnson and Sam Leslie accumulated a ton of points throughout three events.

In the 800-meter run, Leslie placed third overall, Johnson fourth, and Skala seventh. In the 1600-meter run, Johnson placed third overall, Leslie fifth, and Skala seventh. In the 3200-meter run, Johnson placed second overall, with Leslie finishing fourth. Catholic’s 4x800-meter relay, run by Leslie, Harrison Skala, Henry Skala, and Johnson, placed second overall.

In the fielding events, Shawn Sponslor placed second in the high jump at 6-2 while also placing eighth in the javelin throw with a mark of 132-03. Galvin placed second overall in the triple jump with a jump of 40-9.25 while also placing sixth overall in the long jump at 19-2.25. DJ Carter placed third overall in the long jump, measuring in with a jump of 20-3.

Photo credit: Eileen Aaron

Virginia Hope, Alisha Singh and Ellie Kim recently competed in the Alabama State University Math Olympiad. Nine schools competed in the competition. The written contest consisted of 200 multiple choice questions to be completed in 120 minutes. The Montgomery Academy won the competition and Kim received the highest overall score out of all participants with a score of 159 correct out of 200 questions. Their teacher is Cindy Ackerman.

Homeschoolers Celebrate Medieval Times

Homeschooler Shelby Carter took up a sword as a Templar Knight along with (counter clockwise from top left) Kellen Halbrooks as a ranger, Shelby Chappell as a fair maiden, Josh Maddox as a monk, and Noah McAliley as the Black Death to salute the Middle Ages in the home version of Academy Days Co-op’s traditional Medieval Feast. After a remote school year of learning world history via online classes, the homeschoolers dressed in the costumes they would have worn to the historical feast, but at home.

Starting this fall, the homeschool co-op will resume classes in person at Eastmont Baptist Church in Montgomery. In addition to history classes, Academy Days Co-op offers more than 35 homeschool classes in science, theatre, art, creative writing, math, literature and PE for preschool through high school. Visit www.AcademyDays.com for more information.

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

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STJ’s Beasley Chosen in Agency Art Contest

This year, Southern Teachers Agency received 500 entries for its 12th annual Student Art Contest. Saint James junior Luke Beasley has been selected as one of twelve winners.

The artwork of the twelve winning students will be reproduced in the Southern Teachers Art Calendar for the 202122 academic year. The Southern Teachers Agency will send these calendars to hundreds of independent schools around the South. This summer Saint James will receive five copies of the calendar for Beasley and two for his teacher.

Beasley will also receive $50 worth of gift certificates for art supplies, which have generously been provided by Blick Art Materials.

ACA Seniors Sign with Faulkner

Alabama Christian Academy seniors Sarah Johnson and Norton Sewell both signed four-year soccer scholarships with Faulkner University.

Johnson graduated with a 4.5 GPA and was one of the top in her class. She will travel overseas to participate in a mission trip to Sweden. While there, she will join the Vikarby IF Soccer Club which is more than 100 years old. Johnson will train to prepare for college soccer at Faulkner University. She will also assist with children in the only evangelical church in the city where she is staying. Johnson was born in Sweden and is a Swedish citizen who can speak the Swedish language.

Sewell is well known around ACA and has been involved in multiple activities including band and soccer. He is a leader on and off the field.

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Evangel Student Begins Own Business

Evangel Christian Academy student Carlos (CJ) Brown loves birds. Because of his passion, he decided to buy and raise baby chicks as a hobby. He enjoyed his new hobby so much that he began adding other birds. Before long, Brown had a miniature farm. He decided to start selling some of his animals.

Today, even though Brown is still a student, he owns his own bird business. He raises and sells many types of birds including chickens, ducks, peacocks, turkeys and guineas. He also has swans, geese and colorful pheasants. He has several varieties of each type of bird. For example, he has both India Pied and Opal White Eye Peacocks. He also has Silkies and Red Laced Wyandottes chickens. He has even started branching out to other animals such as Patagonian Cavies and rabbits.

Brown enjoys sharing his birds and information about them with others. During the Easter season, he brought Silkie chicks for ECA’s elementary students to see. The students were amazed by the unusual chickens.

STJ Students Place at ACTE

Saint James elementary and middle school students competed in the Alabama Consortium of Technology in Education State Tech Fair. “At the state level, this is a big deal,” said Deborah Otis, Saint James educational technology specialist. Technology teachers Tina Waggoner (elementary) and Martha Cavanaugh (middle school) enjoyed watching their students go through the process of creating and competing.

On February 17, Saint James School hosted the 2021 ACTE Virtual Tech Fair for Region 5. In past years, the Tech Fair has been an in-person event and presentation of projects, but due to Covid, Regional Director Otis hosted a virtual event. Students from grades 3 through 12 competed in this year’s fair from all over the region. Regional Winners moved on to the State Fair.

For Animation, Level 1 (3rd and 4th Grades), 1st Place was awarded to Peyton Stewart and 3rd place to Zoe Cortell. In Audio, Level 1 (3rd and 4th Grades), 1st Place was awarded to Harper Martin. For Digital Game Design, Level 2 (5th and 6th Grades), 1st Place went to Hanan Miller. In Multimedia Applications, Level 1 (3rd and 4th Grades), Yeriel Kim received 1st place. For Robotics Design, Level 2 (5th and 6th Grades), Jackson Clovis was awarded 1st place. In Video Production, Level 1 (3rd and 4th Grades), 2nd Place was awarded to Will Roark, with 3rd Place going to Molly Phillips. In Video Production, Level 2 (5th and 6th Grades), Emily Trock won 1st place, and Dina Hagler won 2nd place.

For Animation, Level 2 (5th and 6th Grades), 1st Place went to Asher Hagler, and 2nd Place to Abigail Roark. In Productivity Design, Level 3 (7th and 8th Grades), Sophie Shoults was awarded 1st place. In Website Design, Level 2 (5th and 6th Grades), 3rd Place went to David Boles.

In the elementary student photo, above left, winners include: front row from left, Dina Hagler, Will Roark, Zoe Cortell, Molly Phillips and Harper Martin; back row: Jackson Clovis, Emily Trock, Peyton Stewart, Yeriek Kim and Hanan Miller.

In the middle school student photos, above right, winners include: from left, David Boles, Asher Hagler, Sophie Shoults and Abigail Roark.

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STJ Art Students Place in Local Contest

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Saint James School had two students place in the Draw Montgomery Competition. Sponsored by the Montgomery Chapter of the American Institute of Architects, the Draw Montgomery Art Competition is a juried art exhibition for students in grades 7-9 and 10-12 in south central and southeast Alabama.

The environments of the River Region including south central and southeast Alabama should be the focus of the subject matter for entries (architecture, interiors, structures, landscapes, etc.). The artwork will be exhibited at the Anita P. Folmar Youth Art Gallery of Montgomery at the Armory Learning Arts Center.

Both winners, Izabella Janush-Hernandez and Sydney Eng, are taught by Saint James art teacher Evelyn Shoults.

Hernandez, a senior, received first place and $150 for her oil painting titled “Dusk.” Eng, a junior, received second place and $75 for her gouache painting titled “The Train Shed.” The awards reception took place May 11 at The Armory Learning Arts Center.

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MEA Softball Team Named State Runners-Up

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The Lady Knights softball team finished an amazing season as AISA 2A State Runners-Up. The girls completed their season with a record of 46-18. The Lady Knights entered the state tournament as the usual team to beat, making the finals for the ninth consecutive year. They beat Lowndes 10-5 and Edgewood 9-7 in the semi-finals, thus advancing to the winner’s bracket against Southern Academy. Southern rallied in its last at-bat in both games to defeat MEA 6-5 and 10-4 to win the Class AA title.

Breann Morrison, Kylee Smith and Taylor McKinney earned a spot on the All-Tournament Team.

The team is comprised of seven seniors: Breann Morrison, Taylor McKinney, Devyn Debardelaben, Kadence Ward, Georgia Blaze, Alyssa Clark and Hannah Parker (shown here). All seniors contributed this year with remarkable athletic ability and true leadership.

Three Lady Knights have signed athletic scholarships to participate in softball at the collegiate level. McKinney will join the mighty Trojans at Troy University. Debardelaben will play for Shelton State in Tuscaloosa. Recently, Ward signed with Florida State College at Jacksonville.

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Macon East Senior Receives Awards

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Macon East Academy senior Will Desmarais was selected as a 2021 recipient of the Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award. The DAR Good Citizens Award and Scholarship Contest, created in 1934, is intended to encourage and reward the qualities of good citizenship.

This award recognizes and rewards individuals who possess the qualities of dependability, service, leadership and patriotism in their homes, schools and communities. These students are selected by their teachers and peers because they demonstrate these qualities to an outstanding degree.

Desmarais was also chosen as an AISA Student Government Association Leadership Scholarship recipi-ent. He is an outstanding academic student, student manager for the football and baseball teams, and serves as an officer and member in several school organizations. He plans to attend Auburn University in the fall and major in business administration.

Eastwood Names AISA State Winners

Two Eastwood Christian School lower school students’ art pieces advanced to, and placed in, the AISA 2021 State Art Show. First-grader Micah Lawrence won second place for his photograph entitled “I See You” in the K-1st grade photography division. Fifth-grader Albert Christensen was awarded first place in the 4th-6th grade sculpture division for his work entitled “Monster Clay.”

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ACA Promotes Summers as Head Football Coach

Alabama Christian Academy has hired Michael Summers as the 17th head football coach in ACA’s 79-year history. Summers has more than 17 years of coaching experience and has served as ACA’s defensive coordinator for the last 10 seasons. Additionally, he has served as ACA’s assistant head coach, offensive line coach, and JV head coach. He oversaw the bruising Eagles defense during the 2020 season that saw ACA advance to the AHSAA 4A quarterfinals and the addition of new defensive records.

ACA’s coaching search evaluated nearly 50 candidates, including coaches with state championship victories, college coaches and a variety of excellent coaches with winning programs and strong cultures. “Coach Summers distinguished himself in his approach to building relationships, equipping young men for long-term success, and pursuing championship caliber football,” said ACA’s Head of School Greg Glenn.

“I believe this job is what I was put on this earth to do,” said Coach Summers, “I grew into a young man as a student athlete on ACA’s football team.

I’ve taught and coached ACA students for the last 16 years. No one loves and believes in our students more than I do and I am thrilled to build on the foundation that has been laid by my fellow ACA head coaches.”

Summers and his wife, Valerie, are parents of Tyson, Ryder and Levi, all current ACA students. He hosted an evening book study for ACA faculty throughout most of this year and is a constant fixture at ACA sports events such as baseball, soccer and bass fishing. www.riverregionparents.com

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STJ Earns Global Seal of Biliteracy

Two Saint James School students of the Class of 2021 have earned the prestigious honor of the Global Seal of Biliteracy. Spanish instructor Rhea Grate said both students worked very hard to achieve this level of language fluency.

Sumner Brown earned the highest score in all four categories tested: reading, writing, speaking and listening. He has earned the Working Fluency status. This has been achieved after only three years of high school instruction.

Aubrey Wright earned the Functional Fluency status. She finished Spanish 4 during the 2019-2020 school year (including one quarter of fully remote learning).

“In a global society where intercultural communication has become increasingly important, the Global Seal provides a unique and recognizable certification of language skills,” says the Global Biliteracy Seal website.

Saint James School offers several world languages, including Spanish. It is offered up to Spanish 4.

ACA Holds Graduations

Alabama Christian Academy celebrated the kindergarten class of 2021 with a graduation celebration at Faulkner University May 14. Forty students graduated and then came back to do their parade of graduates.

On May 16, ACA graduated its senior class of 2021 with 82 students.

Montgomery Academy’s Philanthropy Class Honored

Montgomery Academy’s Philanthropy 101 has been named HandsOn River Region’s Volunteer of the Year in the Youth category. HandsOn River Region recognized the Philanthropy 101 Class of 2019 in their annual Volunteer of the Year Celebration recently. Femi Adediji, Class of 2020, accepted the award on behalf of the group. Faculty sponsors are Mandy Poundstone and Denise Wentworth.

Philanthropy 101 is a unique program that challenges rising seniors to use their abilities to make a difference in their community. Through classroom activities, visits to a variety of nonprofit agencies and foundations, and hands-on service, they discover various ways to give. As a part of the curriculum, students learn how to analyze a nonprofit’s financial statement and learn how a tax-exempt, nonprofit organization operates. They learn how to distinguish between administrative and program costs.

While students earn no school credit for completing the course, each is given a stipend, which must be donated to a single nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization of his or her choice. At the final luncheon, each student gives a presentation about the organization he or she has chosen and presents a donation to the organization’s representative.

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ACA Senior Earns Hitchcock Award

The male recipient of the 62nd Jimmy Hitchcock Award was presented to Alabama Christian Academy student Miller McCarthy on May 4.

“He is one of the most outstanding and well-rounded students we have ever had attend our school,” said ACA Coach Michael Summers. “Every once in a while a player comes along who embodies everything that you as a coach have been looking for in a player: commitment, toughness, vocal leadership, work ethic, talent and passion.

He exhibits the fierceness and dedication of Christ in that he is selfless.

He constantly puts his teammates above himself.”

Miller was also named Mr. ACA and won the prestigious athletic Wade Black Norton award. Norton was an athlete, comedian, and most importantly, a Christian who passed away during his senior year at ACA. The award represents the best about ACA and athletics.

In addition to his rigorous sports schedule and sports achievements, Miller took many AP and honors classes and graduated with a 4.4 GPA. He regularly attends Landmark Church of Christ. He will attend The University of Alabama in the fall with a full tuition scholarship and major in pre-med.

Academy Boys’ Tennis Wins State

The Montgomery Academy boys’ tennis team defeated Mountain Brook to win the 6A State Championship. The girls’ tennis team claimed the 6A State Runner-Up title. This is the 17th state championship for boys’ tennis.

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

Churchill Academy Celebrates Graduates

The Churchill Academy Class of 2021 was honored on May 20 through a graduation ceremony at Thorington Road Baptist Church in Montgomery. With safety in mind, students were allowed to invite 10 guests each and families were seated in family units to ensure comfort for all attendees.

Seniors entered the sanctuary to “Pomp & Circumstance” played by Churchill Academy Music Director Nelda Williams, and were seated across the front of the sanctuary to await their individual student recognition addresses by the high school coordinator and instructors. Each address spoke to the strengths, achievements, character and goals of each member of the senior class from a member of the Churchill Academy High School team.

The Senior Class of Churchill Academy for 2021 included: Caleb Riley Wilkinson, John Thomas (JT) Aplin, Sarah Elaine Gil Backus, Harvey Keuntae Bannerman, Katherine Lynne Bennett, Jack Martin Dradzynski, Zachary Darnell Faulkner, William Kaleb Gilliland, Jade Makenzie Hayes, Cassie Leanne McVay, Carter James Ratulowski, Beau Braxton Terry, Alexia Vania Thomas and James Alexander Young.

Valedictorian Caleb Wilkinson served as the keynote speaker for this year’s graduation ceremony. Wilkinson’s speech individually addressed each member of the senior class, and was met by a standing ovation from those in attendance.

Diplomas for the Class of 2021 were presented by School Director Kaye Pair, High School Coordinator Patsy Lockwood and River Region Parents I June 2021

school therapy dog Tyson. Upon acceptance of their diplomas, each graduation candidate crossed the stage to speak to members of the high school teaching staff, Mrs. Hall, Mrs. Kiernan and Mr. Zienart, and finally to a surprise visit from Coach McCluskie to wrap up the year. (Mrs. Backus attended the ceremony in her role as a parent; however, students were able to connect with her following the ceremony.)

The Class of 2021 from Churchill Academy made history as the largest class (14) to ever graduate from the school, the first class to ever have a full year as part of the school’s new Distance Learning Campus, and the only class to ever receive the “Survivor Cords” associated with navigating a full senior year amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

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Eastwood Names AISA District Winners

Eastwood Christian School hosted the AISA District V Art Show April 23, at Eastwood Presbyterian Church’s fellowship hall. The show was judged by three outside, expert jurors.

It was not open to public viewing due to COVID restrictions.

The following students are District winners from Eastwood. First-place winners advanced to the AISA State Art show held at Faulkner University May 11.

First place: Hadley Ann Dean, painting, K-1st grades; Micah Lawrence, photography, K-1st grades; Delta DeHuff, photography, 2nd-3rd grades; Lillie Mathews, collage/mixed media, 2nd-3rd grades; Harper Thomas, waterbase, 4th-6th grades; Albert Christensen, 3D arts/crafts, 4th-6th grades; Collier Kent, photography, 4th-6th grades; Rivers DeHuff, collage/mixed media, 4th-6th grades; John Hodges, color drawing, 7th-9th grades; Steadman Meadows, 3D arts/crafts, 7th-9th grades; Johnson DeHuff, photography, 7th-9th grades; and Knox DeHuff, collage/mixed media, 7th-9th grades.

Second place: Elyse Jones, collage/mixed media, K-1st grades; Sadler McClure, color drawing, 2nd-3rd grades; Caroline Pearson, printmaking, 2nd-3rd grades; Forrest Fike, collage/mixed media, 2nd-3rd grades; Delta DeHuff, photography, 2nd-3rd grades; Delta DeHuff, 3D arts/crafts, 2nd-3rd grades; Rivers DeHuff, printmaking, 4th-6th grades; Knox DeHuff, photography, 7th-9th grades; Lily Givens, waterbase, 7th-9th grades; and Hope Birchfield, painting, 7th-9th grades.

Third place: Adrian Talbot, 3D arts/crafts, K-1st grades; Adrian Talbot, painting, K-1st grades; Micah Lawrence, photography, K-1st grades; Hadley Ann Dean, waterbase, K-1st grades; Kate Hankins, 3D arts/crafts, 4th-6th grades; Amy Kate Coon, printmaking, 4th-6th grades; Hope Birchfield, painting, 7th-9th grades; Steadman Meadows, color drawing, 7th-9th grades; Ansley White, collage/mixed media, 7th-9th grades; Payten Langley, non-color drawing, 10th-12th grades; and Payten Langley, collage/mixed media, 10th-12th grades.

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STJ Track Students Break School Records

The Saint James girls’ and boys’ track & field teams accomplished numerous victories at the AHSAA Outdoor Championship held April 29-31. Several personal best and school records were broken at the meet.

The boys finished 17th out of 36 teams, and included Jarrett Simpson (100m, 200m, 300m), Carey “Tripp” Owens (200m, 400m, 4x400m), Lucas Huckabee (Shotput, Discus Throw), Connor Owens (Shotput, Discus Throw), Nathan Buckner (4x400m), Dylan Stokes (4x400m), and Will Wales (4x400m).

Throwers Huckabee and Owens kicked off the meet on Thursday with the Discus Throw event. Huckabee finished 4th overall in the 4A classification for the event and threw a personal best of 134-06 feet. The following day, Owens threw his 2nd furthest Shotput mark, which placed him 3rd in the event. Also on Friday, Tripp Owens set a personal best in the 400m sprint (51.56); this time hr broke the previous school record set in 2018. Simpson ran a personal best on Friday, in the 100m, and competed in the 200m and 300m Hurdle events.

The boys wrapped up the championship with the 4x400m relay race. Team captain Wales started the race strong, followed by Stokes to Buckner finishing with Tripp Owens. The boys’ overall performance at the championships was one of the best in recent years.

The Lady Trojans finished 4th out of 27 teams, and left the meet with several top performances. Presley Miles (3200m, 1600m, 800m, 400m), Kendal Wright (3200m, 1600m), Kendall Hardaway (200m, Triple Jump, Long Jump, 4x100m), Hannah Richardson (200m, 400m, 800m, 4x100m), Chelsey Craig (4x100m), and Logann Dean (100mH, 300mH, 4x100m) made up the team.

Team captain Miles finished her high school career winning the 3200m, 1600m and 800m races. She has dominated these events for the past four years. Richardson set a personal best in the 400m on Friday, which placed her 3rd overall in the race. She was also on the 4x100m relay, along with Hardaway, Craig and Dean. Craig is the newest addition to the track family. She started the 4x100m with an amazing lead, handing the baton to Richardson then Richardson to Dean then Dean to Hardaway. Hardaway’s strong finish helped the team break the current school’s record! Shortly after the relay, Dean finished 2nd in the 100m hurdles. She also finished her high school running career with another state medal; she has placed in this event for the last three years.

At right, Connor Owens as he competes in the Shot-Put event.

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Above center, state champion Presley Miles won the 3200m, 1600m and 800m in her final high school state track meet.

At left, Jarrett Simpson during the Hurdle event.

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Above, 4X100 Relay Team: Hannah Richardson, Kendall Hardaway, Logann Dean and Chelsey Craig.

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What a school year 20202021 has been!

Pike Road Schools has managed not only to survive this year, but also to thrive in spite of the health issues that threatened the world.

We opened the school year in August in the peak pandemic period, and we offered traditional schooling, virtual schooling, and blended schooling. We also were able to allow our students to engage in extracurricular activities, such as arts, athletics, clubs, and academic related competitions.

As we moved through the year, we had to adjust many things to make it all work. Our educators, students, and parents proved their flexibility and grit as we worked through the mandated quarantines and continued to learn throughout

them. We still had the routine weather issues that also had to be dealt with, and we continued to teach and learn as if it were a normal year. Each new quarter more virtual students returned to traditional school, and our teachers handled all the changes and shuffling like it was an ordinary thing.

I cannot say enough how proud I am of the Pike Road Schools family! Our benchmark testing of our students reveals that our students continued to learn, grow, and progress this year as if it were a normal academic year. When only about 33% of students around the country were in school learning, we continued to have school and our students learned. The Pike Road Schools stakeholders pulled together to ensure the children of Pike Road did not have a lost year of learning. We will continue to build on the work of this year as we go forward, grow, and improve.

Having passed through the crucible of educating students during a world health crisis, Pike Road Schools has shown our

resilience and our ability to model our goals for our students, to think, innovate and create! As they have carried us through these times, these traits will continue to carry our graduates through their lives!

Pike Road educators are busy preparing for a new school year that will be upon us in no time. We are planning for a return to a more normal year than the one just completed. If you are looking to move to the River Region, come see what makes Pike Road a special place to learn and live! Our community is engaged in the educational growth of our children, and it makes a difference. Come experience the Pike Road Way! Chuck Ledbetter has been an educator for 30 years. He earned a B.A. in history from Auburn University; a Masters of Education in history from AUM; and a doctorate in educational leadership from Auburn University. Ledbetter was a history teacher for 11 years, an assistant principal, a middle school principal, a high school principal, assistant superintendent for curriculum and for finance, and is in his 11th year as a superintendent. He is married to Kim and has three daughters, two sons-in-law, and five grandchildren.

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Congratulations to the graduates of

Pike Road High School Class of 2021

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Pike Road Prayer Walk

On May 6, students, teachers, staff, parents and members of the P.R.A.Y.E.R. Team gathered in recognition of the National Day of Prayer. Faith leaders representing eight Pike Road churches visited each school campus to offer a moment of prayer for our community, our nation and our schools.

The P.R.A.Y.E.R. (Pike Road Area Your Emergency Response) Team is an ENHANCE initiative committee made up of local faith leaders who collaborate to ensure the physical and spiritual needs of Pike Road residents are met in the case of tragedy. The team meets on a regular basis to work on projects such as creating a resource directory and identifying needs in the Pike Road area. Most recently, the PRAYER Team has been active in coordinating a safe response to the needs and challenges created by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Team leaders from Christ Community Church, St. James UMC and Woodland United Methodist visited Pike Road Elementary School. Team leaders from Century Church, Pike Road Baptist, the Montgomery Chinese Church at Pike Road Baptist, and Taylor Road Baptist visited Pike Road Intermediate School. Team leaders from Antioch Baptist, Murdock Chapel AME Church, St. James and Woodland UMC visited Pike Road Jr. High and High Schools at the Georgia Washington Campus.

To learn more or join the P.R.A.Y.E.R. Team, contact Katy Garren at katy@pikeroad.us.

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Gregory Waller M.D. Allen Dupre M.D. Keith Martin M.D. Joseph Desautels M.D. Matthew Phillips M.D. Benjamin Griggs M.D. Paula Sullivan D.O. Dana Moorer CNM Charla Smith CNM Hayley Carnes CNM Della Fuller CRNP Brittney Mount CRNP Tracey Mendelsohn CRNP Michelle Aplin CRNP Terri Singletary CRNP Fran Rutledge CRNP www.riverregionparents.com

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PRHS Special Ed Teacher Receives Grant

PRHS Softball Players Sign Scholarships

Three Pike Road High School (PRHS) softball players signed letters of intent to play softball at the collegiate level. All three ladies have played for PRHS for the past six years, their entire playing eligibility.

Pitcher Samantha Melton signed with Central Alabama Community College. She has played with the Bad News Babes, Diamond Babes and APEX. Outfielder Jaliyah Brown signed with Miles College. She has played with Dream Team, Alabama Force and EC Bullets. Outfielder Kirsten Stroud also signed with Miles College. She has played with Dream Team, Impact Gold and EC Bullets Thrash.

Jennifer Veres, a special education teacher at Pike Road High School, was recently awarded a classroom grant by the Association of American Educators Foundation (AAEF). The funds received from this grant will be used to purchase manipulative materials to enhance the multisensory curriculum for Veres’s students. Veres hopes these new materials help her students gain number sense and self confidence in their abilities to empower them. She will also be able to train other math teachers how to incorporate these methods in their daily teaching.

FFA Students Advance to State Level

Patrick Quinn, William Guy and Kylon Garett are the first Future Farmers of America members from Pike Road High School to compete in the district and state poultry judging competition. They placed 4th in the central district and 9th in the state.

Levi Noles is the agriscience teacher and FFA advisor for PRHS. He is building a flourishing FFA program at the school.

PRHS Holds Academic Signing Day

Pike Road High School (PRHS) hosted its first Academic Signing Day this year. Academic Signing Day is a chance to celebrate the acceptance of our students into colleges, technical schools or the military. All PRHS seniors and their parents were invited to attend this special celebration May 20 on Patriot Field.

Participating seniors announced their college career plans, there were opportunities for photos, and light refreshments were served following the celebration.

Follow us on Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/pikeroadschools) to see spotlights of all participants as we celebrate their commitment and success.

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Pike Road Ladies Auxiliary Awards Scholarships

PRES Enjoys Patriot Games

Pike Road Elementary students enjoyed a day full of outdoor games, snow cones and fun! Patriot Games is the perfect way to celebrate being a Pike Road Patriot and to celebrate the end of the school year. Students played on numerous inflatables, ran relay races, and cooled off thanks to the Pike Road Fire Department’s ladder truck.

Thanks to all of the parents and grandparents who volunteered, to our PTSA for helping with the Patriot Games, and to Coach Killough and the P.E. department for setting up and scheduling the event.

COME ON OUT ENJOY ART + ACTIVITIES

The Pike Road Ladies Auxiliary awarded its community service scholarships for 20202021 to two outstanding students. The two individuals were chosen from a large pool of applications. Scholarship recipients Tanner Moore and Abbie Snipes were honored with an appreciation dinner on April 23.

Moore, son of Scott and Leigh Ann Moore, is a graduate of Macon East Academy. He plans to attend Southern Union and later transfer to Auburn University and major in wildlife ecology/forestry.

Moore was a member of the Macon East football and baseball teams, National Honor Society, Mu Alpha Theta Mathematics Honor Society, Spanish Honor Society, and treasurer of the Student Government Association. He enjoyed volunteering at his school, Saint James UMC, Night to Shine, Mission Montgomery, mission trips and December to Remember service projects.

Snipes, daughter of Donnie and Darleen Snipes, is a homeschooled graduate of Ezekiel Academy.

She plans to attend AUM and major in psychology/ environmental science. Snipes served as class secretary/treasurer of Keeping It Classical Homeschool. She has volunteered with the Pike Road Ladies Auxiliary for five years assisting with many community service outreach programs, Pike Road Branch Library, PAWS volunteer fostering kittens, Golden Animal Hospital and Montgomery Humane Society. She has a loving heart for animals.

Moore and Snipes both received $500. They have demonstrated a passion for volunteering while maintaining a level of academic achievement.

Families are invited to enjoy outdoor games and art activities in the Caddell Sculpture Garden—Friday and Saturday from 10 AM to 2 PM and Sunday from noon to 2 PM this June. Plan your visit at mmfa.org.

Activities weather permitting

Blount Cultural Park One Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117

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Open Tuesday–Sunday Free Entry + Parking mmfa.org | @MontgomeryMFA

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Pike Road Track Breaks Records

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PRHS Students Gain Management Experience

Pike Road High School learners participated in “Mad City Money,” a money management program hosted by Alabama ONE Credit Union.

Each participant: received a life that included a family and an income to support their family; practiced budgeting as an adult with realistic circumstances; identified and experienced the consequences of poor decisions; developed good judgment regarding spending and making a budget; and gained an understanding that budgeting is a necessary step in good money management and that it isn’t difficult.

Send Your School News to: editor@riverregionparents.com.

Pike Road varsity boys’ and girls’ track & field team competed in the 2021 AHSAA Class 4A-7A State Championship held in Gulf Shores April 29-May 1.

Our girls’ track team placed 6th overall in this meet. Those who placed top three earned a trip to the podium to receive medals. Our girls’ 4x100m relay team led the way by earning a trip to the podium with the Class 5A State Championship title after timing a 48.03 and setting a new school record. Our girls’ 4x100m relay team members are Gabriel Stephens, Kirsten Stroud, Victoria Stephens and Jasmine Moore. Moore also placed third in the 400m after setting a new school record of 58.77 and earning another trip to the podium. She then placed 6th in the 100m.

Stephens placed 5th in the 100m and 4th in the 200m. Stroud placed 6th in the 200m. Stephens placed 2nd in long jump, earning another trip to the podium.

Our girls’ 4x800m relay team placed 8th while setting a new school record with a time of 11:18.87. Members of the 4x800m relay team are Gracie Phillips, Hadleigh Todd, Natalie Pennington and Abby Grace. Finally, our girls’ 4x400m relay team placed 7th. Members of that 4x400m team are Kirsten Stroud, Natalie Watson, Gabriel Stephens and Gracie Phillips.

Our boys’ track team placed 14th in this meet. Dejuan Lyles placed 7th in the 400m while setting a new school record time of 50.89. Sylvester Smith placed 4th in the 200m and set a new school record time of 23.17. Dylan Payne placed 5th in the 800m and set a new school record time of 2:04.06. Our boys’ 4x400m relay placed 4th in their event while setting a new school record time of 3:30.32. Members of that relay team are Dejuan Lyles, Machai Cooley, Sylvester Lyles and Dylan Payne.

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Pine Level Student Saves Mom

The quick action of Pine Level Elementary School second-grader Tatum Johnson may have saved his mother’s life.

Holly Johnson was driving on I-65 recently when she had an asthma attack and wasn’t carrying her inhaler. She pulled off the interstate and Tatum asked his mom where her inhaler was located. By this point, she was no longer able to speak but gestured that she didn’t have it with her. Tatum saved the day by grabbing his own inhaler out of his backpack. He gave his mom the first pump of the inhaler and after a few minutes she became more coherent.

Tatum also gave her water as he had been taught to do. When he saw she was okay, he unlocked his mother’s cell phone and called his father. The Life360 tracking app on her phone was able to give their location.

“We try to teach our kids what to do in different scenarios and he used that knowledge,” Holly said. She added that PLES has reinforced that education by talking to students about different safety and health issues. “This is the first time that Tatum has had to deal with an emergency situation because of my asthma.

He has great critical thinking skills and thirsts for knowledge. I am proud of the young man he’s becoming.”

Information for this article courtesy of Elmore Autauga News.

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PCA Softball Team Wins Regionals

In a sweep of the Alabama High School Athletic Association regional tournament, Prattville Christian Academy’s Lady Panthers earned a spot in the 3A state tournament. PCA defeated Thomasville (10-0), Oakman (5-3), and Catholic (8-1) to improve to 32-8 and continue their state chase.

Prattville Senior Named National Merit Finalist

Prattville High School senior Carter Stockman is the only student in Prattville this year to earn the distinction of National Merit Scholar Finalist, and one of only 200 in the state. As a finalist, he’s competing for 7,500 National Merit Scholarships worth $32,000 that were offered nationwide this spring.

Carter’s twin brother Cleveland made it to the semifinal round in the competition.

Their mother is Janice Stockman, principal at Prattville Junior High School, and their dad Jeff Stockman is an assistant principal at Pine Level Elementary.

Carter said he took the test in October of his junior year. He found out earlier this year that he made it to the finalist round. “I am thankful for the opportunity to demonstrate what I have learned as I have had great teachers along the way,” Carter said.

Both brothers are Eagle Scouts with Troop 25. At school, Carter is a member of Student Government Association, competes on the robotics team and is involved in the Technology Students Association. He has narrowed his college choices to Auburn University or the University of Alabama. He plans to major in mechanical engineering.

Carter also just competed in a statewide robotics competition where he placed eighth in the state. He runs a rapid prototyping business and has designed items ranging from educational tools to cookie cutters.

Information for this article courtesy of Elmore Autauga News.

PPS Faculty Members Awarded

The Autauga County Children’s Policy Council held a ceremony to recognize teachers who have gone above and beyond the call of duty this year. Judy Cordell received the award for Prattville Primary School for her commitment in going above and beyond during this challenging year. The Council also, for the first time ev-er, recognized a principal.

PPS Principal Mrs. McNider received the award for Principal of the Year.

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Prattville Eagle Scout Buries Time Capsule at PJHS

In honor of Prattville Junior High School’s 50th Anniversary and its transition from North Highland School in 1969, Prattville High School senior Robert Humphrey and Boy Scout Troop 25 buried a time capsule in front of the school as part of Humphrey’s Eagle Scout project.

The time capsule will be dug up in 2040. Some of the buried items include hand sanitizer, face masks, toilet paper and a red silicone arm band used at PJHS to designate those at higher risk of contracting COVID-19 and having complications.

Other items include historical documents concerning the land the school sits on, calculators, a smart phone to represent the device held by 90 percent of the student body and faculty members, an English teacher T-shirt, COVID-19 scientific information and student accounts of what the year was like dealing with the pandemic.

Humphrey, who will attend Auburn University in the fall and major in aerospace engineering, said the project took about two months to complete. He has been in scouting since the first grade and is also a member of the PHS marching band and Prattville First United Methodist Church.

Prattville Junior High was originally built as North Highland School and served secondary students. At that time, it was an all-black school. The class of 1969 was the final graduating class of North Highland and the following year was a transition year. In 1970, the school became integrated and changed to Prattville Junior High.

Information for this article courtesy of Elmore Autauga News.

Prattville Hires Wallace Head Football Coach

Prattville High School has hired JB Wallace as its next head football coach.

Wallace served as defensive coordinator under former Prattville head coaches Jamey Dubose and Caleb Ross. In March, Ross announced that he would be leaving Prattville to join the staff at Troy University.

Wallace, who graduated from Prattville in 1998, served as the head coach for Marbury High School the past two seasons – tallying a 12-10 record with a first-round loss in the 5A playoffs each season. He will become the 35th head coach of The Lions.

VBS JUNE 21-25 8:30 AM - NOON REGISTER AT

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Autauga County Schools

Pine Level Shares Cultures

Students in Mrs. Gregory’s class at Pine Level Elementary have traveled the globe as they have been learning about cultures around the world. They chose a country that they researched and created a display out of recycled computer boxes. Students then wrote speeches that they videoed explaining their country. Videos were organized and shared with their parents and student body at Pine Level.

Prattville Primary Named CLAS School

Prattville Primary School was named a School of Distinction by the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS) for excellence in education.

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

PCA Cheerleaders Earn Scholarships

Two of Prattville Christian Academy’s varsity cheerleaders will pursue their passion for cheer at the collegiate level after signing letters of intent in front of their families, friends and cheer squad. Peyton Cobb signed a letter of intent with Troy University after the Trojans selected her out of 71 tryout participants.

Both student-athletes will receive athletic scholarships. Anna Connell signed a letter of intent with Huntingdon College after the Hawks selected her to join their team.

Cobb has cheered most of her life! Before attending PCA, she cheered competitively with Titan Gymnastics and Cheer in Wetumpka. She began as a junior varsity cheerleader in the 7th grade and continued to perfect her passion as she grew, becoming the squad’s co-captain for her junior and senior years. Cobb was named a UCA All-American in 2019, 2020 and 2021. She was invited to and performed in Orlando, Fla., as a select group of All-American

cheerleaders in 2019.

“Peyton is a joy to know,” said Lisa Hardman, PCA’s assistant varsity cheer coach. “It has been so wonderful getting to watch her grow as a leader, and without a doubt, she is going to make an incredible Trojan cheerleader.”

Connell began her cheerleading career as a pints cheerleader in the second grade under the direction of Kimberly Simpson, PCA’s former varsity cheer coach and now cheer director. Connell has developed her skills and leadership abilities under Simpson for the past 10 years. Her Huntingdon coach will be only her second coach in her cheer career. She was named the squad’s captain this year and also received UCA’s All-American honor in 2021.

“Anna has a heart of gold,” said Jennifer Goff, PCA’s varsity cheer coach. “It has been a joy to watch her grow this year, and there is no doubt she is going to make a positive impact on her Hawk squad this fall.”

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Autauga County Schools

PCA Middle School Students Place in Scholastic Tests

Ten Prattville Christian Academy middle school students placed at or above average in the Scholastic Challenge 2021. Ryan Lueck ‘27 placed highest among his peers at 72%. The national average is 56%. This national academic competition is a challenging activity that allows sixth-grade students to demonstrate problem-solving skills and knowledge in several academic areas.

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PPS Celebrates Cafeteria Staff

Students and teachers celebrated the best cafeteria staff ever on Happy Lunch Hero Day. The students and staff at Prattville Primary School sent cards and words of encouragement to the wonderful cafeteria staff that kept the school well fed.

Prattville Primary Celebrates Seniors

Prattville Primary School celebrated the 2021 seniors with a senior walk-through. As PPS focused on The Seven Habits, we looked to Begin with the End in Mind. Prattville Primary students had the opportunity to see the end results of all their hard work. We celebrated our graduates as they walked the halls of PPS.

Facility Dogs Join PLES

Pine Level Elementary is so excited to have two facility dogs, Gunner and Maggie, to assist with meeting the social and emotional needs of our students. The dogs were trained by Service Dogs of Alabama.

Schools and the dog’s handlers must fill out an extensive application to receive a grant for the dog to be placed in the school as a facility dog.

During the day, the dogs interact with students in a variety of ways. We have seen students’ anxiety decrease and academic motivation increase when they have the opportunity to spend time with each dog.

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The 2020-2021 school year has ended, and 754 graduates have received diplomas signaling the end of their K-12 academic careers. Due to COVID-19, each school’s ceremony was held on its football field, graduates were limited to a few guests each, and social distancing practices were enforced. I appreciate the understanding of the seniors and their families, and the flexibility of our high school administrators in providing their graduates a ceremony to remember. I am incredibly proud of the accomplishments of these students!

The Elmore County High School senior class of 105 students was awarded nearly $2 million in scholarships. Six graduates will enter military service, and over half of the students are college-bound. Sam Barlet was named the Class 5-A State Bryant-Jordan Scholar-Athlete Award winner and Kelley Green was selected Region 5 Class 5-A Bryant Jordan Achievement

Award winner. The Valedictorian was Chloe Andress and the Salutatorian was Sam Barlet.

The Holtville High School senior class of 116 students has earned approximately $2.8 million in scholarships. Six members of this class will enter military service, and nearly half will pursue post-secondary education.

The Valedictorian was Ben Blair, and the Salutatorian was Paxton Price.

Stanhope Elmore High’s senior class of 236 students has been awarded $1.8 million in scholarships. Forty-seven graduates will enter the military, and 143 students will attend college. The Valedictorian was Rikki McAdams, and Salutatorian was Lacey Franklin.

The 256 students in Wetumpka High School’s senior class have earned over $7 million in scholarships. Eighteen students will enter military service, and 146 students will pursue post-secondary education. The Valedictorian was Morgan Causey, and the Salutatorian was Charles Burbank.

The EDGE, Elmore County’s virtual school, graduated its first class of 54 seniors.

Six graduates will enter military service, 26 students will attend college, and 19 students will enter the workforce. Three students

were early graduates. They met all graduation requirements in December and began postsecondary education in January. The EDGE Valedictorian was Denedjah Peak.

Our students have taken advantage of a wide variety of course offerings, including Advanced Placement, dual enrollment, and/ or Career-Technical Education courses and are well prepared to enter college or the work force. They have collectively earned scholarship offers totaling nearly $13.8 million! Congratulations to our graduates and we wish you well in your new endeavors!

The end of each school year provides an opportunity to “look behind and plan ahead.” We intend to utilize of this time to reflect and fine-tune to ensure our students have the best possible opportunities to learn, grow, and achieve their maximum potential in the upcoming school year!

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.

Save the Date!

VBS July 26-29 • 9:00-Noon

Church Service Times: Sunday School 9:00 AM • Morning Worship 10:30 AM Evening Worship 6:00 PM 211 South Chestnut St • Prattville AL 36067 • 334-365-6387 www.firstpresbyterianchurchofprattville.com 45

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Elmore County Schools

Holtville Student Earns Perfect ACT Score

ARIS Celebrates Library Week

In Celebration of National Library Week, Airport Road Intermediate School students participated in daily events such as Favorite Book Character Dress-Up Day, field day activities, and many other exciting events.

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Holtville High School junior Richard “Richie” Burleson, Jr., earned a perfect score of 36 on his most recent ACT! He has made straight As in all classes since he started school and has been involved in multiple extracurricular activities.

Burleson is or has been a member of the National Beta Club, Mu Alpha Theta National Math Honor Society, Skills USA, Bulldog Ambassadors, DECA, Spanish Club, the Superintendent’s Advisory Council, 4H’s Youth Leadership Elmore County program, the high school’s Scholar’s Bowl Team, the middle/ high school’s BEST Robotics Team, the high school’s concert and jazz bands, and the Holtville Theatre Society, where he has performed in 11 musical productions, including 35 individual performances, over the past six years.

Burleson has played the trumpet and marched in the Holtville High School Green Machine Marching Band since 7th grade and has served in various leadership positions at different points throughout his time in band, including serving as the band co-captain and as the section leader of the trumpet section. He was a Hugh O’Brian Youth Leadership ambassador in 2020, and he participated in the Central Alabama Electric Cooperative Youth Tour in 2021. Outside of school, Burleson is currently the senior patrol leader of Boy Scout Troop 185 and holds the rank of Life Scout. He is a member of Coosa River Primitive Baptist Church, where he participates as a song leader.

Future plans are to study mechanical or aerospace engineering at Auburn University or Georgia Tech.

Holtville High Principal Kyle Futral said that the HHS faculty and staff are extremely proud of Burleson for this very rare and noteworthy achievement. “Richie has dedicated himself to excellence in the classroom throughout his time in school,” Futral said. “It is very rewarding for us to get to see the fruit of his hard work, as well as the hard work of our faculty and staff at HHS.” www.riverregionparents.com

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Coosada Wins Bright Ideas Grant

Teacher Heather Perdue and Yellow Pod First Grade of Coosada Elementary won the Bright Ideas Grant for $1,000 from Central Alabama Electric Cooperative. With this grant, they were able to successfully hatch 35 chicks! Students enjoyed witnessing the 21day process of incubation, learning about the life cycle of chickens, and what it takes to raise chicks. The chicks will be sent to local farms where the students will continue to follow and observe the growth of each chick.

ECTC Computer Students Win at State Leadership Conference

Elmore County Technical Center’s Computer/IT students racked up at the 2021 SkillsUSA Alabama State Leadership and Skills Conference with three state championships and three additional medalists!

Shown for Cyber Security are Logan, state champion, and Kris, participant; Technical Computer Applications - Matthew, state champion, and Ben, silver medalist; and Information Technology Services - Ashton, state champion, and Josh, silver medalist. Jenifer (not pictured) was an IT bronze medalist.

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

Elmore County Honors Sewell Winners

Edgewood Welcomes Back Boys’ Head Basketball Coach

Every year, the Joe Sewell Memorial Award recognizes outstanding senior athletes from high schools in Elmore County who have consistently represented the highest ideals of Christian leadership and emulate the character of Joe Sewell.

The 2021 recipients of a $1,000 scholarship award are: Girl’s Academic Award: Macy Elizabeth Adams, Edgewood Academy; Boy’s Academic Award: Samuel Brian Barlet, Elmore County High School; Girl’s Athletic Award: Alexis Love, Tallassee High School; Boy’s Athletic Award: Benjamin Kyzer Barker, Wetumpka High School; Girl’s Church, Community and Character Award: Erika Renae Broadway, Holtville High School; Boy’s Church, Community and Character Award: Paxton Lee Price, Holtville High School; Girl’s Leadership Award: Rikki Lee McAdams, Stanhope Elmore High School; and Boy’s Leadership Award: Richard Matthew Hicks, Holtville High School. The 2020 recipients of a $3,000 scholarship award are: Girl’s Overall Award: Morgan McKinlee Causey, Wetumpka High School; and Boy’s Overall Award: Carson Michael Peevy, Edgewood Academy.

Edgewood Academy is rehiring Coach Darryl Free to fill the position of head basketball coach, starting with the 2021-22 school year. Free, who was highly successful during his three-year stint with the Wildcats, won the 2019 AISA 2A State Basketball Championship, and then followed that accomplishment with a run to the AISA final four the ensuing season.

During his three years at Edgewood, Free served as athletic director and varsity head basketball coach, and in his last two years, head football coach. He spent the 2020-21 year as the varsity boys’ head basketball coach at W.S. Neal High School in Brewton, Ala. Now that the 2020-21 basketball season is over, Free said he is eager to see what his team will have in store for next year. “I’ve coached a lot of these kids before, so they’re all familiar with my expectations. We’re going to have a young team, but that’s a challenge that we’ll face head on.”

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ECTC Students Earn Welding Certifications

Shown are Welding seniors from Elmore County Technical Center who have gone above and beyond their coursework, paying out of pocket to take additional industry certifications. From left, certifica-tions were earned by Xzavier (from Wetumpka) 3G Stick SMAW; Noah (Holtiville) 3G Stick SMAW & 3G MIG, and Conner (Holtville) 2G MIG GMAW & 3G Stick SMAW.

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Girl Scouts Donate Cookies to Coosada

This year has been hard for educators all over the state due to the pandemic.

That’s why Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA) came up with the idea to spread a little joy by donating cookies to schools.

To do this, GSSA asked their Facebook followers to nominate schools by commenting on their Facebook post. GSSA said after a day the number of responses they received was astounding! The organization then randomly selected three winners to receive cookies for their entire staff, and among the winners was local school Coosada Elementary.

“Our goal is to spread joy and show some love for all that our educators and supporting staff does,” says Karlyn Edmonds, GSSA CEO. “We hope that these cookies show them just how much we value their hard work and appreciate them.”

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Victory Student Places in National Contest

Lonnie Hollon, a senior from Victory Christian Academy in Millbrook, competed in the annual American Association of Christian Schools (AACS) National Competition, which was held virtually this year due to COVID-19 restrictions. Bob Jones University, a Christian liberal arts university in Greenville, SC, facilitated the virtual event.

Approximately 1450 students from 28 states participated in the AACS National Competition, having captured top honors in their state contests. The students, representing more than 150 Christian high schools, competed in 72 categories in the five basic areas of Bible, music, speech, art and academics.

The virtual event, judged by the faculty of Bob Jones University, concluded with a livestreamed awards ceremony, virtual campus tour, and masterclasses that provided contestants with an opportunity to learn tips and insights from competition judges.

Hollon captured first place in the national spelling bee.

She has participated in spelling bees since fourth grade.

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Holtville Student Named CTE Student of the Year

On May 6, Elmore County Career and Technical Education hosted its 7th Annual CTE Awards Banquet recognizing 68 students across the school system who have excelled in their career and technical education programs. A Student of the Year is chosen in each of the 19 different programs, and from those winners, the team selects one Overall CTE Student of the Year. This year, the winner was Kaitlyn Wheeler from Holtville High, pictured with Elmore County CTE Director Emilie Johnson.

ECHS Student Earns 4-H Scholarship

Elmore County High School senior and 4-H member Abigail Luster has received the Ann Barr 4-H Scholarship. She plans to attend Auburn University in the fall and major in animal science.

During 4-H, Luster has been involved in the River Region 4-H Livestock Club (8 years), shown goats, participated in 4-H Chick Chain, and attended 4-H MidWinter Teen Leadership Retreat. Because of 4-H, she says, “I was able to learn and improve the skills I needed to compete, make unforgettable memories in showing, and learn valuable lessons I will use for the rest of my life.”

While in school, Luster was also the Elmore County High School Marching Band drum major 2019-2021, French horn section leader (2018-present), and the Senior Beta Club secretary.

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with Coach K

Go Outside and Play: Kids Edition School is out and children are about spend countless hours inside…

OR SHOULD THEY? On average, children spend four to seven minutes a day in unstructured outdoor play compared to seven or more hours in front of a screen. It has become so extreme that the crisis has a name: Nature Deficit Disorder.

ing outside on the list? I want to share three reasons children should play outside more.

1. Kids Become Active and Healthy.

As we talked about earlier, children spend an enormous amount of time

time to make sure kids get and stay active.

2. Outdoor Play Helps Social Skills.

Researchers found that there is a link between outdoor play and social skills. The kids who spent the most time outdoors were, on average, more cooperative. They were also better able to verbalize their desires. My threeyear old Ashlyn loves the outdoors.

Our time together is mutually enriching. While I’m teaching her how to ride her scooter, or how to go higher on the swings, she’s always showing me how well she plays with others. Whoever is at the park becomes her friend because she knows how to play with others.

3. Master Motor Skills.

While it’s clear that children spend significantly more time inside than outside, we know that this shift is largely due to technology. Although there are educational and fun activities on computers and iPads, replacing screen time with outdoor play has many more benefits. Also, let’s be honest, the kids have spent enough time on the computer during the school year anyway.

You probably already have some activities scheduled for your children to be involved in this summer, but is playRiver Region Parents I June 2021

inside every day. Alabama summer temperatures can also make it hard to convince kids to play outside. However, the recommended time that kids should be having outside play is three hours daily. They may not reach three hours, but the goal is to create consistency so that outdoor play will be something kids can look forward. Try adding water to the mix to make the heat more tolerable and the play more fun. With childhood obesity rates going up, there’s no better 50

Outside, kids are less restrained by space and can run, jump, skip, and flip, testing their bodies abilities.

Digging in the dirt improves fine motor skills and hanging from monkey bars or swinging a bat strengthens hand muscles.

There are so many things you can do, whether it’s an organized game or just unstructured activity that your kids will enjoy. So create a daily schedule and make sure PLAY OUTSIDE is on it! #Unleashed

Keon Addison is a 5th grade teacher of 19 years at Wares Ferry Road Elementary. He and his wife, Jennifer, have two beautiful girls, Ashlyn and Keona. Keon is the visionary/coach of Unleashed Potential Fitness where he hosts bootcamps, group training, and personal training. He is also a lifestyle coach for the Wellness Coalition teaching people how to delay and/or prevent type 2 diabetes. Find out more at www.unleashedpotentialfitness.org.

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AWARD WINNING CARE Women’s Choice Award Winners Best Stroke Centers  Baptist Medical Center South Best Hospital for Obstetrics  Baptist Medical Center East Best Mammogram Imaging Centers  Montgomery Breast Center and Baptist Breast Health Center

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From excellent clinical care to ranking above average for patient safety to the highest level of

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overall patient satisfaction, we understand what matters most to women. And being recognized with multiple Women’s Choice Awards signifies our commitment to meeting the highest standards in healthcare, close to home.

BAPTISTFIRST.ORG

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Peruse the greeting card section around Father’s Day and you’ll find the shelves bursting with stereotypes about dads. While we may love to poke fun at his expense, we have more reasons to appreciate dear old Dad besides how handy he is with a wrench.

Supportive dads and father figures positively influence a child’s development. Here’s how.

Did you know?

•Fathers, who help around the house, are more likely to raise daughters who envision a broader range of possible career options for themselves.

Fatherhood is linked to lower blood pressure, lower rates of heart disease and longevity.

Fathers, who help with caregiving, feel more patient, empathetic and flexible.

Source: LeanIn.org

pleting school security checks and greeting kids as they arrive at school to providing homework help.

They also jump in during the lunch hour to help peel open those stubborn half-pint cartons of milk, offer clean-up assistance, and dine with their kids.

“Eating lunch with your son or daughter offers a unique insight into your kids’ friends and what they talk about, what they think is funny and how innocent their minds are,” Clark says.

Some dads even stick around for recess.

“It’s amazing how cool the kids think it is getting someone to push them on the swings, play tag, play basketball or football,” Clark says.

Model healthy relationships. Emotionally secure, nurturing dads, who help with day-to-day childcare and household chores, don’t just neutralize assumptions about gender roles in Emphasize education. Father of three, Brett Clark the family. Their support enhances a mother’s overall sense of joined Watch D.O.G.S. (Dads of Great Students) and All Pro emotional well-being. Her happiness trickles down, helping the Dad programs at his kids’ elementary school, four years ago. entire family feel more well-adjusted and resilient to stress.

He says the programs give him valuable insight into what’s hap“Secure pening in his children’s school and by extension, fathers (and moththeir lives.

What if Dad is absent? ers) are likely to “Growing up, I don’t recall my dad—or any For many families, dads simply aren’t in the picture either due to have secure kids. fathers for that matter—attending school with divorce, death or other reasons. Of course, that doesn’t mean A sense of security me or knowing what I did everyday,” Clark says. you can’t raise a well-adjusted child. means the person “Programs like Watch D.O.G.S. are important for a According to the 2016 Census Bureau, while the majority of sees him or herself number of reasons. But most importantly, I believe it children live in two-parent homes, 23 percent are being raised by as worthy of beis vital for children to see their dad engaged in their single mothers. Single moms can give their children the benefit of a father figure by seeking male role models within their extended ing loved,” says education and life.” family, at school, or in the community. psychologist and Researchers agree. Kids, who see both their “There are good dads and men in the public eye, too, who you researcher Omri parents actively involved in their school life, are can point to and talk about what makes them admirable and a Gillath, Ph.D., Uniless likely to get into trouble for behavioral issues, role model,” Limbert says. versity of Kansas. perform better academically, and are more likely to Research graduate from high school. suggests that children, especially boys, who have a positive relaThrough Watch D.O.G.S., dads, stepdads, grandpas and tionship with their fathers are more likely to have higher quality other father figures manage an assortment of tasks from com-

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romantic relationships as they enter adulthood, Gillath adds.

Both boys and girls, who experience positive relationships with their dads, are also less likely to engage in first-time risky behaviors like substance abuse and premature, unsafe sex.

Teach emotional management.

Boys can learn how to manage emotions like anger from their fathers while girls can gain self-confidence and the expectation that they deserve to be treated with respect.

“It’s important for fathers to be okay expressing and allowing a full range of emotions from both their daughters and sons,” says parent coach Tom Limbert, author of Most Valuable Dad. “By acknowledging and allowing vulnerability, anger, sadness in yourself and in your children, you open up a supportive dialogue that will help children grow to have healthy relationships and emotional well-being.”

Fathers also teach their youngsters socialization skills and self-control through rough-and-tumble play like playful wrestling, tumbling, and chasing. This kind of rough-housing, especially with their sons, encourages kids to take risks, learn how to manage back and forth interactions and recognize body language cues like when rough play should end.

Enhance empathy. Outside of their school life, Clark connects with his children through sports activities like coaching his oldest son’s baseball team, volunteering with community organizations like the March of Dimes and the American Heart Association, and by spending leisure time together.

“We enjoy being outside as a family, whether that is taking bike rides, attending sporting events or enjoying community events,” Clark says.

Researchers at McGill University, found that children raised by attentive, actively involved fathers exhibited higher levels of empathy as adults.

“The best things dads can do is to simply be present and offer their attention and interest in their children,” Limbert says. “Obviously it would be helpful to be empathetic and supportive as well, but primarily—without complicating it —it’s all about being present and engaged.” rrp Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines’ husband Jason is a fantastic dad to their two school-age sons. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital Age.

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Newtopia Celebrates School Champions Newtopia is a place that likes to shed light on positivity within our community. Nothing is more rewarding than seeing our future leaders shine throughout Montgomery and surrounding areas.

Newtopia recognizes all students who have worked so hard, as well as their achievements this 2020-2021 school year. May School Champion 2021, was their best yet!

Students were awarded for creativity, good behavior and, most of all, good grades. Though the year was challenging, Newtopia applauds all parents, guardians, principals, teachers, students, staff, and all leaders who made the school year a success.

The next School Champion will be held September 21, 2021 from 5-7pm. Winners will be awarded in a ceremony and have a chance to WIN Newtopia’s yearly scholarship! Students will also receive FREE admission, FREE pizza, and FREE drinks. Principals, teachers, and staff are invited to nominate their students to be the next School Champion. You can do so by sending an email to newtopiachamp@ gmail.com.

Newtopia’s School Champion event is sponsored by CBS 8, ABC 32, MIX 103, Montgomery The CW, MeTV Montgomery, Bahakel Digital, Alabama News Network, River Region Parents Magazine, Papa John’s, and Coca-Cola.

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by Kimberley Carter Spivey

As the end of springtime draws near, we’re welcoming the summer with open arms. Summer means backyard BBQs and pool parties, jet skiing on the lake, vacationing at the beach, a beautiful picnic, and many more fun outdoor activities and adventures to enjoy.

There’s no denying that, without classic dishes to devour, these events aren’t complete. So why not create the crowd-pleasing recipe we’re featuring this month.

We also understand the busyness of summer for families. There are summer camps, sports clubs, and mid-week sleepovers, which can be tough for parents to balance. And when it’s dinner time, we want you to breathe deep in relief that you have quick and simple meals to prepare for your kiddos.

We’re excited to share a recipe from community mom, Leigh Anne Dagalea, an elementary school teacher for Montgomery Public Schools and Zumba instructor for Crunch Fitness. When she’s not impacting the minds of young children or performing her favorite dance moves in a Zumba studio, she’s busy being a mom to her daughter, Lena. While spending time in the kitchen, Filipino food is her go-to of choice. It’s a cuisine that is varied and delicious.

Leigh Anne says, “I love to experiment with different recipes and cook food that reminds me of my family. I remember my mom, Aunt Tita, and my older sister, Cecilia, cooking it when I was younger—so it is natural to me.”

River Region Parents I June 2021

but all have the following common ingredients: soy sauce, chicken (whatever part), garlic, vinegar, bay leaves, and black corn pepper. Here is my family’s version:

Chicken Adobo Ingredients 1 lb of chicken wings (or any other parts you have) 1/2 cup soy sauce 1/2 cup distilled white vinegar 6-8 cloves garlic minced 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns 5 bay leaves 2 lemons (squeezed) 1/2 cup of Sprite Watching her family perfect Filipino dishes, as well as creating some American dishes, she cherishes those moments.

While preparing meals for her family, Leigh Anne likes to use a wok and rice cooker.

Her favorite meals are Chicken Adobo or Pansit and simple baked chicken and fish with rice and vegetables. The Chicken Adobo, a popular dish that gets rave reviews, is often called the national dish of the Philippines. While preparing the dish, one can choose from a variety of stewing meat (typically chicken, pork, or both) with savory sauces for a delicious flavor.

Leigh Anne explains, “The preparation doesn’t take long, and I always have the ingredients on hand. There are different versions of Filipino Chicken Adobo, 56

Directions: 1. Heat the wok on medium heat. Add vinegar, garlic, lemon juice, bay leaves, black peppercorn and Sprite.

Mix thoroughly.

2. Place chicken in the wok. Before the chicken is fully cooked, add the soy sauce and mix.

3. Once fully cooked, serve with steamed rice or garlic rice.

Kimberley Carter Spivey is a freelance writer, blogger, author, and entrepreneur. When she’s not working as an Instructional Systems Designer and copy-editor on Maxwell AFB, she’s busy freelancing, blogging, or toiling away at her next book. 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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Whether across the country or just across town, moving is a big adjustment for everyone in the family. Children, in particular, can feel overwhelmed and uprooted because they are rarely in control of the decision to change homes, neighborhoods, or schools.

Here are some tips to help parents support their kids through the transition.

River Region Parents I June 2021

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and play spaces.

Some kids may enjoy decorating or adding new pieces to their room while others prefer keeping the familiar things from the previous home.

Talk it over

As early as possible, start preparing your child for the move by letting them know where, when, and why you are making the move.

Let them know you understand that this may be upsetting or scary to them, but it is also an exciting and a fun adventure you will do together.

Give them the opportunity to talk through their feelings and make sure they know they have permission to be sad, angry, excited, or scared, sometimes all at the same time!

Take a tour

When house hunting try to involve kids as much as possible.This will help them feel a part of the decision. Let them tour possible homes with you and give their opinions. If this is not possible, let them be a part of the decisions after you have it narrowed down to a few contenders. Give them the chance to pick their bedroom

Maintain routines

Once the move is complete, it is important to maintain similar routines as in the previous house. This will help kids feel safer in their new environment. Parents should also be aware that regression in potty training, behavior, and sleep are totally normal for kids to go through when they are experiencing significant transitions in their lives. Try to be consistent and patient while they adjust to their new surroundings.

Foster friendships

One of the most positive things about

moving is the opportunity to make new friends. Parents can make moving easier by helping their kids meet new people.

Host a playdate, get involved in sports or other activities, take a plate of cookies to the neighbors, and introduce yourself to other families at the neighborhood park. It can be hard for kids (and parents) to step out of their comfort zone, but once you have made some friends and acquaintances it is easier to feel at home in a new place. Parents should also encourage their children to continue friendships from their previous home as much as possible. Just because there is more distance between friends does not mean the relationship has to end.

Moving is a challenge not just for the kids but for the parents too. Try to set an example for your kids by acknowledging sad feelings while keeping a positive attitude and embracing your new neighborhood. It can also help to explain that while the place you live may change, the important things won’t - your family will be together and you will always love each other no matter where you live. rrp

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and frequent contributor.

2021Youth Baseball Camps (ages 5-17)

Sessons 1

June 14-17, 2021

Sessons 2

June 21-24, 2021

Each session will have two different groups essentially two different camps one for young campers (age 5-11) and one for older campers (age 12-17).

The age groups will have age appropriate and skill level appropriate instruction taught.

$150.00 per player

All registration is online at:

Patrick McCarthy Head Baseball Coach Faulkner University

www.faulknerbaseballcamps.com 59

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adult entrée purchase on Wednesdays.

logansroadhouse.com

2021

McAlister’s Deli 2747 Legends Pkwy. Prattville, AL 36066 Known for its sandwiches, baked potatoes and tea. Kids eat everyday for $.99 mcalistersdeli.com

Mellow Mushroom Prattville 2641 Legends Pkwy. Prattville, AL 36066 Pizza, calzones and more! Kids eat free per adult meal purchase on Tuesdays after 5 p.m.

O’Charleys 2301 Cobbs Ford Road Prattville, AL 36066 Traditional American cuisine. One free kid’s meal when you purchase one adult entree, all day every day. For kids 10 and under.

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Chicken Salad Chick All locations River Region, AL Delicious selection of chicken salad. Offers free meals for kids 10 and under on Tuesdays. chickensaladchick.com

Kids Eat Free or Almost Free Applebee’s All locations River Region, AL Wide variety of American foods. $1.99 kids meals after 5 p.m. on Wednesdays. applebees.com

Baumhower’s Wings 2465 Eastern Blvd. and 201 S. Union Street Montgomery, AL 36117 Sports pub with wings. Kids eat free on Tuesdays with purchase of $10 adult entrée and is limited to 1 child per adult. baumhowers.com

Beef O’ Brady’s 2776 Legends Pkwy. Prattville , AL 36066 Irish type pub. One Free kids meal for kids under 12 with the purchase of one regular priced adult meal on Monday from 4-8 p.m. Dine in-only. beefobradys.com

Bruster’s Ice Cream All locations River Region , AL Large selection of ice cream, cakes and pies.

Kids under 40 get a free baby cone. brusters.com

Captain D’s River Region, AL Grilled and fried seafood. Get 2 free kids meals with any regular priced adult purchase on Thursday’s. Dine-in only. captainsds.com

Chappy’s Deli River Region, AL We have several locations in Montgomery and Prattville. Large selection of foods from burgers off the grill, signature sandwiches or salads. Free River Region Parents I June 2021

Red Robin 7005 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 American style grub. Kids eat for $1.99 with the purchase of an adult entrée on Thursdays. redrobin.com

Shoney’s 4700 US 231 Wetumpka, AL 36092 All American diner style menu. Kids under 4 eat free every day with paying adult. shoneys.com

CiCi’s Pizza All locations River Region, AL Pizza, salad and dessert buffet. Kids under 3 free. cicis.com

Cuco’s 11123 Chantilly Pkwy. Pike Road, AL 36064 Mexican style café. Kids eat free on Tuesday. cucosmexicancafe.com

Dreamland BBQ 12 W. Jefferson St. Montgomery, AL 36104 Try us for our amous BBQ and sauce. We also offer locally brewed craft beer from the Rail Yard.

Free meals for kids on Sundays with the purchase of an adult entrée. dreamlandbbq.com

El Patron Mexican Grill 2152 Cobbs Ford Prattville, AL 36066 Kids eat free with paying on adult on Mondays.

(334) 285.2120 email

Fazoli’s 7123 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Italian style food. Kids eat free on Tuesdays with paying adult. fazolis.com

IHOP All locations River Region, AL Kids 12 and under eat free from the kids menu with each adult meal.

Ihop.com

Jalapeno’s in the Alley 130 Commerce Street Montgomery , AL 36104 Mexican menu. Child eats free on Mondays with the purchase of adult meal.

(334) 262.4939 email

Logan’s Roadhouse 2775 Legends Parkway Prattville, AL 36066 American food and cocktails. 1 free kids meal per

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Pizza Perfect 428 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36109 Thin crust pizzas cooked to order and buffet.

Tuesdays after 5 p.m. kids eat free from buffet with adult buffet purchase.

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meals for children under 6 daily. Kids 6-12 eat for only $2.50. Free mini icecream after meal.

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Sweetcreek Farm Market & Café 85 Meriwether Road Pike Road, AL 36064 Farm to table eatery with local fresh produce and signature sandwiches. Kids eat free in the café on Tuesdays with a purchase of an entree.

Facebook: SweetCreek Farm Market

Texas Roadhouse 7525 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 American fare with a southwestern spin. Kids eat for $2.99 with purchase of adult entrée after 4 p.m. on Thursdays. texasroadhouse.com

The Wharf Casual Seafood 6945 Eastchase Loop and 3954 Atlanta Hwy. Large selection of seafood entrees. Kids choose a free meal from the kids menu with the purchase of an adult entrée on Thursdays. wharfcasualseafood.com

Urban Cookhouse 7712 Eastchase Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Wide selection of farm fresh food. Child eats free from 4-6 p.m. on Mondays with purchase of adult entrée. urbancookhouse.com

Where to Grow Childcare/Montgomery Memorial Presbyterian Church Children’s Center 2130 Bell Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Connecting Children’s Hearts and Minds to Jesus.

(334) 274.1018

memorialpres.net

Vaughn Road Preschool 8790 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 To nurture and educate the whole child in a loving, Christian environment. We accept children 6 weeks to preschool age.

(334) 277.4815

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Aldersgate Weekday Children’s Ministry 6610 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Our mission is to provide quality childcare and education in a Christian environment that provides opportunities for spiritual, education, emotional and physical development.

(334) 277.0880

aldersgateumc.org

Evangel Christian Preschool 3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 We provide a safe and loving environment for children ages 6 weeks to 3 year across the River Region.

(334) 273.0730 ecalions.org

First United Methodist Church Early Childhood Development Center 2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL 36106 We partner with families to help children grow physically, emotionally, mentally, socially, and spiritually for children 6 weeks to 5 years.

(334) 834.8964

fumcmontgomery.org

Frazer Christian Preschool 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Our program that provides students with numerous opportunities to develop strong social, academic and spiritual foundations.

(334) 279.0271

frazerkindergarten.com

Gracepointe Child Development Center 1565 Ray Thorington Rd Montgomery, AL 36117 We run an intentional play based center. Our teachers use developmentally appropriate practice skills to teach your child from ages 6 weeks to 5 years.

(205) 799.7570 email grace-pointe.com

Heritage Child Development Center 1849 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36016 Our goal is to lead people into a life changing relationship with Jesus Christ in Montgomery and beyond by providing excellent early childhood education that helps preschoolers grow spiritually, intellectually, physically, socially and emotionally.

(334) 279.0643

heritagecdc.net

Hooper Academy Early Learning Center 380 Fischer Road Hope Hull, AL 36043 We offer a quality program with unconditional love and care for each child. Our center provides structured schedules which promote each child’s physical, emotional, intellectual, language, and motor skills development.

(334) 288.2770

hooperacademy.org

Lakeview Child Development Center 9225 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 Providing a safe, loving, Christian environment where children are happy and parents entrust their children to our care with confidence. Ages: 6 weeks to 4 years, Monday-Friday (334) 396.3944 care_info

lakeviewbaptistchurch.cc/day-

Macon East 15396 Vaughn Road Cecil , AL 36013 Each student is a valued individual with unique physical, social, emotional and intellectual needs.

(334) 277.6566

maconeast.net

Montessori @ Mulberry 2034 Clubview Street Montgomery, AL 36106 Montessori at Mulberry serves children 18 months to 6 years of age. Children learn at their own pace and with a variety of hands on materials geared specifically for them.

(334) 265.7733

montessoriatmulberry.com

St. James Christian Preschool 9045 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Saint James Christian Preschool is dedicated to providing a loving, nurturing environment, which

allows a child to grow intellectually, emotionally, and spiritually.

(334) 481.0722

sjlife.com

Taylor Road Baptist Mother’s Day Out Program 1685 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Providing a safe, nurturing environment for children since 1991.

(334) 271.3363

taylorroad.org

The Learning Tree Child Development Center 4120 Carmichael Road and 3335 Woodley Road Montgomery, AL Your Children deserve the best so why not give it to them. We pride ourselves in having the best childcare program for ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

(334) 271.4733 and (334) 284.5560

Vaughn Park Church of Christ Mother’s Day Out 3800 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Mother’s Day Out at Vaughn Park is a half-day program full of fun and learning. We accept babies at 6 weeks through 4 years old.

(334) 272.2665

vaughnpark.com

Childcare/Prattville & Millbrook The Learning Tree Child Development Center 1816 Glynnwood Drive Prattville , AL 36066 Your Children deserve the best so why not give it to them. We pride ourselves in having the best childcare program for ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

(334) 365.1451

First Baptist Preschool & Kindergarten 138 South Washington St Prattville, AL 36104 We believe it’s important to plant seeds of faith early in a child’s life. Our preschool ministry is a place children can be themselves and learn more about the One who created and deeply loves them.

(334) 361.9481

fbcprattville.org

First Presbyterian Church Kindergarten 211 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 36067 Our desire is to help your child grow academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually while he or she is here with us throughout the school year.

(334) 365.6387

fpkprattville.com

Childcare/Wetumpka First Baptist Child Development Center 205 W. Bridge Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Our goal is to provide a well-rounded ministry of nurturing for your child, as well as a system of encouragement and support for parents and grandparents.

(334) 567.3319

fbc/wetumpka.org

First Steps Mother’s Day Out and Preschool 1266 Dozier Road Wetumpka, AL 36093 We offer a Christ centered environment, small classes with age appropriate curriculum, designed to foster a love of learning and prepare your child for academic success in the years to come.

(334) 221.5681

Facebook: First Steps RBC

Wetumpka Preschool and Child Development Center and Periscope, LLC 502 N. Bridge Street Wetumpka , AL 36092 Our goal for preschool is to foster the development of a healthy self-image which will assist the child to regard themselves as people who are important, good friends of classmates, good learners and eager participants in Preschool and whole school activities.

(334) 567.4689

gatewaypreschool.weebly.com

Hospitals/Montgomery Baptist Medical Center East 400 Taylor Road Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 277.8330

baptistfirst.org

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Baptist Medical Center South 2105 E. South Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36116 (334) 288.2100

baptistfirst.org

Jackson Hospital 1725 Pine Street Montgomery, AL 36106 (334) 293.8000

jackson.org

VA Medical Center 215 Perry Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36109 (334) 272.4670

centralalabama.va.gov

Hospitals/Prattville & Elmore Prattville Baptist Hospital 124 S. Memorial Drive Prattville, AL 36067 (334) 365.0651

baptistfirst.org

Elmore Community Hospital 500 Hospital Drive Wetumpka, AL 36092 (334) 567.4311

ivycreekhealth.com

Mom Groups Century Strong Moms 11 Chapel Hill Street Pike Road, AL 36064 Dedicated in helping moms in the community be STRONG moms. Please email lifegroups@ century.church.

Mom2Mom Frazer Memorial UMC Montgomery, AL 36117 Playgroup to connect mother of newborn to 5 years old. Email mom2mom@frazerumc.org frazerumc.org

Montgomery Multiples Montgomery, AL Offers support to mothers of twins, triplet and more. They offer moms night out with dinner once a month. sites.google.com/site/montgomerymultiples/home

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts One Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Pre-school and school age classes for parent/child partners.

(334) 240.4333

mmfa.org

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) First Baptist Church, 305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Support group for moms of preschoolers. Meet twice a month with motivational speakers, conversations with other moms and activities. Childcare provided.

(334) 241.5165

montgomeryfbc.org/mops

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) Vaughn Forrest Baptist Church 8660 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Support group for moms of preschoolers. Meet twice a month with motivational speakers, conversations with other moms and activities. Childcare provided. vfcmops.weebly.com

OBGYNs OB-GYN Associates 495 Taylor Road, Montgomery 630 McQueen Smith Road, Prattville For over 20 years, our medical practice has provided health care for women of all ages in Montgomery and the surrounding areas. At OB/ GYN Associates of Montgomery we provide upto-date comprehensive obstetric and gynecologic services in high risk and normal risk pregnancy, infertility, incontinence, pelvic prolapse, menopause, abnormal pap smears, menstrual problems, birth

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

cents. On call service for each night and on weekends.

an the

Pediatric Healthcare 4700 Woodmere Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36106 Provide quality care for infants, children and adolescents and to assist parents in the endeavor in rearing their children to reach their optimal physical, emotional, and spiritual development.

Ala 201 Ha The

(334) 272.1799

2021

(334) 273.9700

mykidsdr.com

pedhealthcare.com

Professional Pediatrics 4154 Carmichael Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Newborn, Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine. Our office consists of 3 doctors and accepting new patients.

(334) 271.5959

professionalpediatrics.com

Urgent Care for Children 1470 Taylor Rd Suite 109 Montgomery, AL 36117 At Urgent Care for Children, we know that children’s illnesses and injuries don’t follow normal business hours. That’s why we’re open late and on weekends to provide the care and service that will help your little one feel better in no time!

(334) 530.6361

control, endometriosis, pelvic pain, and weight loss.

Our talented and personable doctors and staff offer individualized care at three practice locations. We are equipped with some of the latest technology to better and more efficiently serve you.

(334) 279.9333

obgynmontgomery.com

Central Alabama Ob-gyn Associates 2024 Chestnut Street Montgomery , AL 36106 Specializing in gynecology and obstetrics, female infertility and surgery.

(334) 265.3543

Montgomery Women’s Health Associates 470 Taylor Road, Ste 300 Montgomery, AL 36117 Specializing in routine and high risk prenatal care, including non-invasive prenatal testing. Ultrasounds, nonstress testing and biophysical testing done in office.

(334) 281.1191

montgomerywomenshealth.com

Physicians for Women 287 Mitylene Park Drive, Montgomery 645 McQueen Smith Road, Prattville Specializing in gynecology and obstetrics, female infertility and surgery.

(334) 290.4200 and (334) 491.4200

mypfw.com

Pediatric Dentist/Orthodontist Bush Pediatric Dentistry 4740 Woodmere Blvd Montgomery, AL 36106 At Bush Pediatric Dentistry, our goal is to provide your child with optimal oral health that will last a lifetime.

Dr. Samuel Bush is a Pediatric Dentist with advanced training in the treatment of infants, children, teens, and patients with special health care needs. Our office is designed to meet the individual needs of your child in a fun and relaxed environment. Come see why everyone is having such a pawesome time!

(334) 676-2144

bushpediatricdentistry.com

Chapman Orthodontics 1550 E. Trinity Blvd. Montgomery , AL 36106 Father-and-son orthodontic team that provides comfortable and efficient orthodontic treatment to families throughout the Montgomery, Prattville, and Greenville communities.

(334) 272.9447 email chapmanortho.com

Dentistry for Children 7047 Halcyon Summit Drive, Montgomery 68 Village Loop, Wetumpka We provide comprehensive dental care to infants, River Region Parents I June 2021

children, adolescents and special needs patients.

(334) 277.6830

chew-chewtrain.com

www.childrensurgent.com

Where to Learn

Just for Grins Orthodontist 7051 Halcyon Summit Drive, Montgomery 68 Village Loop, Wetumpka 207 Ashton Plaza, Millbrook We offer a wide array of orthodontic treatment options to get you or your child a smile to be proud of.

(334) 270.1044

(334) 272.4900

kingryorthodontics.com

Montgomery Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics 2600 Bell Road, Montgomery Our mission is to provide comprehensive dental and orthodontic treatment and education for children and adolescents in a friendly atmosphere that encourages children to enjoy their dental experiences.

(334) 277.6690

smilesfromus.com

Prattville Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics 460 McQueen Smith Road Prattville , AL 36066 Our mission is to provide comprehensive dental and orthodontic treatment and education for children and adolescents in a friendly atmosphere that encourages children to enjoy their dental experiences.

(334) 358.6411

smilesfromus.com

Pediatricians

Libraries Autauga-Prattville Public Library 254 Doster Street Prattville , AL 36067 (334) 365.3396

appl.info

Coliseum Boulevard Branch Library 840 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36109 (334) 271.7005

mccpl.lib.al.us

E.L. Lowder Regional Branch Library 2590 Bell Road Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 625.5717

mccpl.lib.al.us

Hampstead Library 5251 Long Acre Street Montgomery, AL 36116 (334)244.5770

mccpl.lib.al.us

Juliette Hampton Morgan Memorial Library 245 High Street Montgomery, AL 36104 (334) 625.4999

mccpl.lib.al.us

(334) 285.6688

Partners in Pediatrics 8160 Seaton Place Montgomery, AL 36116 Complete healthcare for pediatric and adolescents. On call service for each night and on weekends.

Wetumpka Public Library 212 South Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092

Partners in Pediatrics Prattville 136 E. Main Street Prattville, AL 36066 Complete healthcare for pediatric and adoles-

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 1 Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Come and view the exhibitions and collection, take

(334) 272.1799

mykidsdr.com

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Carlile Pediatric 78 Cambridge Court Wetumpka, AL 36093 Provide complete and personal healthcare for infants, children and adolescents.

(334) 567.6915

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justforgrinsortho.com

Kingry Orthodontics 8101 Seaton Place, Montgomery 31 Bridge Street, Pike Road We offer services for Invisalign, early treatment, adult treatment, incognito and headache relief.

Creating Smiles for Life!

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cityofmillbrook.org

Pike Road Branch Library 9585 Vaughn Road Pike Road, AL 36064 (334) 244.8679

(334) 567.5147

mccpl.lib.al.us

wetumpkalibrary.com

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an art class, participate in our many events or visit the interactive kids room.

(334) 625.4333

mmfa.org

Alabama Cattleman’s MOOseum 201 S. Bainbridge Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Hands on agricultural education center for children They can dress up as cowboys and cowgirls.

(334) 265.1867

bamabeef.org

Dexter Parsonage Museum 309 S. Jackson Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Take a tour of the home where Martin Luther King and his family lived during the Civil Rights Movement.

(334) 261.3270

dexterkingmemorial.com

F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum 919 Felder Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 This museum is dedicated to the lives of the Fitzgerald’s during their stay in Montgomery.

Come and visit us for a tour or one of our yearly local events.

(334) 264.4222

thefitzgeraldmuseum.org

Freedom Rides Museum 210 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Come see how 21 people changed history using non-violent protest methods.

(334) 414.8647

freedomridesmuseum.org

Hank Williams Museum 118 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Museum dedicated in the preservation the country star’s memorabilia, instruments and more.

(334) 262.3600

thehankwilliamsmuseum.net

Legacy Museum 115 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Displays the history of racism and hatred in America.

(334) 386.9100

museumandmemorial.eji.org

Mann Wildlife Learning Museum 325 Vandiver Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36110 Visit and learn about North American wildlife in a realistic setting of their natural habitat. Located at The Montgomery Zoo. (334) 240.4900

mannmuseum.com

Rosa Parks Library and Museum 208 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Memorial to the life Rosa Parks and the Montgomery Bus Boycott.

(800) 414.4756

troy.edu

Performing Arts & Theatres Alabama Shakespeare Festival 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 A beautiful vision built by one of the locals. People from all over come to visit ASF and enjoy many of the plays throughout the year.

1 (800) 841.4273

asf.net

Capri Theatre 1045 East Fairview Ave Montgomery, AL 36106 One of the oldest remaining theatres in Montgomery. Please check our website for playlist.

(334) 262.4858

capritheatre.org

Cloverdale Playhouse 960 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Performing arts center in Montgomery located in the Cloverdale Historic District. Educational programs available in theatre.

(334) 262.1530 email cloverdaleplayhouse.org

Davis Theatre for Performing Arts 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Beautiful historic theatre that hosts a variety of live performances throughout the year.

Facebook: Troy University’s Davis Theatre

Montgomery Performing Arts Center 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Large auditorium located in the Renaissance Hotel for traveling performers and artiste. Please visit our website for concert and performance dates.

(334) 481.5100

mpaconline.org

Prattville Cultural Arts Center: Way Off Broadway Theatre 203 West 4th Street Prattville, AL 36067 Community theatre in Prattville that puts on several performances a year.

(334) 595.0850

prattvilleal.gov

Wetumpka Depot Players 300 South Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Live performances by local actors. Junior group performances.

(334) 868.1140

wetumpkadepot.com

Private Schools Churchill Academy 395 Ray Thorington Rd Montgomery , AL 36117 The only comprehensive school program in Montgomery specializing in educating bright children with unique learning differences.

Testing Requirements: Previous diagnosis of learning disabilities, attention deficit disorder or other, and average to above average intellectual functioning, however Churchill will also conduct a testing evaluation to assist in placement.

(334) 270.4225

churchillacademy.net

Evangel Christian Academy 3975 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Evangel Christian Academy is dedicated to helping prepare our children academically, spiritually, emotionally; to be all that God wants them to be.

(334) 272.3882

ecalions.org

Macon East Academy 15396 Vaughn Road Cecil, AL 36013 Each student is a valued individual with unique physical, social, emotional and intellectual needs.

Curriculum and instructional practices incorporate a variety of learning activities to accommodate differences in learning styles and balance academics, athletics, and the arts.

(334) 277.6566

maconeast.net

Montgomery Catholic Saint Bede Campus, 3850 Atlanta Hwy. Holy Spirit Campus, 8580 Vaughn Road Middle & High School Campus, 5350 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School is an integral part of the Catholic Church’s mission to proclaim the gospel of Jesus Christ. As an adult community, we share in the responsibility to prepare students for college and beyond while helping them to grow to become persons of faith, virtue, and wisdom.

(334) 272.7221

montgomerycatholic.org

Resurrection Catholic 2850 Forbes Drive Montgomery, AL 36110 We strive to offer a quality spiritual and academic program for students from pre-K through the eighth grade. We believe that all students deserve an excellent education regardless of race, creed or color.

(334) 263.4221

rcmsouth.org

Saint James School 6010 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Saint James is an independent, nonsectarian, college preparatory school with a student body broadly representative of college-bound students.

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

(334) 277.8033

stjweb.org

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The Montgomery Academy Upper School, 3240 Vaughn Road Lower School, 1550 Perry Hill Road The Montgomery Academy (MA) is a K–12, co-ed, nonsectarian day school serving the River Region community since 1959. Our mission is to develop leaders committed to honor, scholarship, service and the pursuit of excellence.

(334) 273.7170

montgomeryacademy.org

The School at Sylvan Learning Center 4240 Lomac Street Montgomery, AL 36106 The School at Sylvan Learning Center is a SACS Accredited school program which offers an individualized education experience. By offering a low student to teacher ratio, we are able to individualize and meet the educational needs of each student.

(334) 239.0874

sylvanlearning.com

Trinity Presbyterian School 1700 East Trinity Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36106 To glorify God by providing for students the highest quality, college-preparatory education, training them in the biblical world and life view, thus enabling them to serve God in spirit, mind, and body.

(334) 213.2100

trinitywildcats.com

Alabama Christian Academy 4700 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery, AL 36109 The mission of Alabama Christian Academy is to glorify God by providing a quality, Christ-centered education which challenges students and teachers to maximize their potential so that graduates are prepared to further their education while becoming productive Christian citizens.

(334) 277.1985

alabamachristian.org

Cornerstone Christian Academy 125 Calhoun Road Montgomery, AL 36109 Cornerstone Christian Academy’s ultimate objective is to glorify God by preparing students spiritually and intellectually for life-long service in His kingdom.

(334) 356.7788

ccamontgomery.org

Eastwood Christian Academy 1701 East Trinity Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36123 At Eastwood, we desire to cultivate in each student a lifelong love of learning, and a pursuit of academic and moral excellence, for the purpose of bringing glory to God alone.

(334) 272.8195

eastwoodschool.org

Hooper Academy 380 Fischer Road Hope Hull, AL 36043 Our mission is to provide a balanced and quality curriculum, which allows each student the opportunity to achieve full potential and maximize mental, physical, social, emotional, and spiritual growth.

(334) 288.5980

hooperacademy.org

LEAD Academy 2897 Eastern Boulevard Montgomery, AL 36116 A public charter school for grades K-5. Our mission is to provide innovative programs designed to spark curiosity, maximize learning potential and continuously improve student achievement by empowering them with 21st century skills. We believe in a Montgomery where every child is given the tools they need to be knowledgeable, productive, and well-rounded citizens, and to lead themselves and our community well.

(334) 230.7756

leadacademyal.org

Montessori @ Mulberry 2034 Clubview Street Montgomery, AL 36106 Each child is encouraged to reach his/her full potential in all areas of life. The specific needs of individual children are met at each developmental level. Our curriculum, which is challenging, interdisciplinary and real world related, provides a strong academic bridge to elementary school.

(334) 265.7733

montessoriatmulberry.com

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Bring a bag and expect to catch some candy and beads.

(334) 358.0297

2021

prattvilleal.gov

Southeastern Livestock Exposition Rodeo Garrett Coliseum Montgomery, AL 36107 Grab your lasso and come on out and have some fun! We’ve got Cowboys, Cowgirls, Rodeo Clowns, Live performances and Xtreme bullfights.

(888) 2RODEO2

bamabeef.org

Farmer’s Market Grand Opening East Chase Montgomery, AL 36117 Come visit us in Eastchase on Saturday mornings through September for local vendors and farmers.

You will find anything from homemade soaps, farm fresh veggies and more. Opens in May. (334) 279.6046

shoppesateastchase.com

Annual Events-April/June Alabama Book Festival 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104 A wonderful lineup of regional authors from every genre. Lots to do with author panels, quiz shows, children’s activity area, live music, theatre, vendors, food and more. Held in April.

(334) 240.4500

Success Unlimited 2328 Fairlane Drive and 4500 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Montgomery’s foremost institution dedicated to individualized education. SUA provides a safe and loving environment where students feel accepted and are challenged by educational excellence, instilled with loyalty to our country, and developed through spiritual growth.

(334) 213.0803

suacademy.com

Autauga County Public Schools 153 W. 4th St Millbrook and Prattville, AL Learning today, Leading tomorrow. Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar.

(334) 365.5706

acboe.net

Elmore County Public Schools 100 H. H. Robison Drive Wetumpka, AL 36092 Every student Empowered! Every student Succeeds! Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar.

(334) 567.1200

elmoreco.com

Montgomery Public Schools 307 S. Decatur Street Montgomery, AL 36110 Our mission is to engage, educate and inspire our students to succeed in college, career and beyond. Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar.

(334) 223.6700

Sylvan Learning Center 4240 Lomac Street Montgomery, AL 36106 Offering tutoring in Study Skills, Math, ACT/SAT Prep, Writing, Reading and Homework help..

(334) 262.0043

sylvanlearning.com/montgomery

Churchill Academy Tutoring 395 Ray Thorington Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Tutoring available for summer. One on one tutoring for Grades K-12.

(334) 270.4225

churchillacademy.net

Success Unlimited 2328 Fairlane Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 Tutoring available for any subject by certified teachers.

(334) 213.0803

suacademy.com

Sylvan Learning of Prattville 206 Fairview Avenue Prattville, AL 36066 Providing support in study skill and homework help, math, writing, reading, STEM & Robotics sessions and ACT/SAT Prep.

(334) 212.8448

sylvanlearning.com

Where to Play

mps.k12.al.us

(334) 420.5301

pikeroadschools.org

Tutors

Mathnasium 3453 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 We are the authority in math education. Changing lives through Math.

(334) 356.1570

mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery

Read & Write Learning Center 3240 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Our services include multisensory instruction in reading, math, grammar and writing and comprehension.

(334) 328.2134

readwritelearningcenter.com

River Region Parents I June 2021

Flimp Festival 1 Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Free Art festival featuring over a dozen art activities, chalk, live music performances, games and food vendors. Held in May. (334) 625.4333

Annual Events-January/March Millbrook Reveler Mardi Gras Festival and Parade Village Green Millbrook, AL 36054 Largest Mardi Gras celebration north of Mobile.

Lots of vendors and activities for the children.

(334) 467.6726 email millbrookrevelers.org

Prattville Mardi Gras Parade Downtown Prattville Prattville, AL 36067 Let the good times roll! Come join the fun with great food, arts, crafts, inflatables and the parade.

64

mmfa.org

Fountain City Arts Festival in Prattville Downtown Prattville, AL 36067 A fun filled day with literary works, artist, musicians and more. Held in April (334) 595.0854

prattvilleal.gov

Herb Day Grace Presbyterian Church, corner of the Atlanta Highway and Bell Rd. Montgomery, AL 36117 Heirloom organic vegetable plants and herbs.

Held in April/May. (334) 245.3508

www.alabamaherbsociety.org

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Prattville CityFest 131 North Court Street Prattville, AL 36067 Visit our local vendors, enjoy the food vendors, fun area for the kids to play, live music and more.

Held in May.

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Ride for Freedom Bus Tour 210 South Court Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Meet with a Freedom Rider, Historians, Activists and other locals to hear the story from those who lived it and where it happened. Held in May.

Facebook at Freedom Rides Museum

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River Jam Music Festival Riverfront Amphitheatre Montgomery, AL 36104 Annual Music Festival held at Riverfront Park.

Please visit website to see Heading and other performers. Food vendors and beverages available.

Held in May.

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(334) 365.7392

(334) 414.8647

Pike Road Public School Three campuses in Pike Road, AL Think, Innovate, Create the Pike Road way.

Please visit our website for zoning, services, school locations and calendar.

alabamabookfestival.org

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(334) 625.2100

prattvillecityfest.com

funinmontgomery.com

Seafood and Arts Festival Union Station, 300 Water St Montgomery, AL 36104 Delicious seafood, arts and crafts. Benefits Child Protect. Held in April.

(334) 625.2100

funinmontgomery.com

Sounds of Summer Concert Series East Chase Montgomery, AL 36117 Eastchase serves up a series of summer concerts and they are FREE! You can visit our their website for dates and who’s playing. Begins in June.

(334) 279.6046

shoppesateastchase.com

www.riverregionparents.com

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Sweet Creeks Spring Chicken Festival 85 Meriwether Road Pike Road, AL 36064 Free Event with live music, BBQ cook-off, kids activities, handcrafted booths and more. Held in April.

(334) 280.3276

(334) 625.4400

Annual Events-July/September Broadway Under the Stars Blount Cultural Park Montgomery, AL 36117 A night filled with music from some of your Broadway favorites. Come prepared with blankets, chairs, coolers and food for this free concert.

(334) 240.4004

montgomerysymphony.org

Local River Region 4th of July Events Please visit City of Millbrook, Montgomery, Pike Road, Prattville and Wetumpka for their 4th of July Events and check our out 4th of July listing in this issue.

Russell Lands Fourth of July Blast Lake Martin Amphitheatre Eclectic, AL 36024 Russell Lands puts on a show annually at Lake Martin. Fun filled night with concerts and huge firework display. Beautiful if viewed from the lake or amphitheater. Please visit website for more details.

(256) 397.1019

Montgomery Christmas Parade Capitol Building Montgomery, AL 36104 Annual parade that kicks of city celebration of Christmas begins at the steps of the capitol and ends at the Court Square.

russelllandsonlakemartin.com

Wetumpka River and Blues Festival Gold Star Park Wetumpka, AL 36092 Annual free event usually held in July features arts, crafts, music and more! Held annually in July.

(334) 567.5147 Facebook under Wetumpka’s River and Blues Music and Arts Festival

Annual Events- October/ December

visitingmontgomery.com

Montgomery Symphony Orchestra Holiday Pops Concert 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 The orchestra plays everyone’s favorite holiday songs. Great concert for family traditions.

(334) 240.4004

montgomerysymphony.org

Tavern Fest 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Popular event downtown featuring craft beer, live music, food, silent auction and much, much more!

(334) 240.4500

oldalabamatown.com

Turkey Day Classic 915 South Jackson St Montgomery, AL 36104 Alabama State University’s traditional Thanksgiving Day football game.

(334) 229.4100

bamastatesports.com

Fun for Kids Newtopia 3731 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 Large indoor play arena with many activities for your children to enjoy. Café with free wifi available for parents to sit back and relax while their children play.

(334) 356.4518

newtopiafunpark.com

2211 Ultimate Playzone 3541 McGehee Road Montgomery, AL 36111 Great place for some family fun! Roller skating and large Fun Zone for kids to join in with handson activities.

(334)593.7180

2211ultimateplayzone.com

Alabama National Fair Garrett Coliseum Montgomery, AL 36107 Action packed 10 days held in October. Come join us for fun, food, rides and music. Please visit website for performers.

Ice Palace at Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36117 Skate indoors year round.

Camellia Bowl Crampton Bowl Montgomery, AL 36104 This is an NCAA sanctioned FBS college football game held sometime in December.

Launch Trampoline Park 891 Boardroom Drive Prattville, AL 36066 Looking for something to do indoors? Launch Trampoline Park has trampoline courts, Dodge ball, Basketball, Knockout, Launch Pad, Tumble Traks, Laser Tag, The Challenger, Battle Pit, Launch Eats and Arcade.

(334) 272.6831

(404) 862.4730

alnationalfair.org

camelliabowl.com

(334) 277.2088

shopmalls.com

Christmas on the Coosa Gold Star Park Wetumpka, AL 36092 Annual Christmas parade held on the Coosa River with decorated boats at night. The festival also offers art/crafts, street parade, classic cars and more.

(334) 568.2041

Daddy Daughter Diamond Princess Ball 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104 A fundraiser that allows daddy’s and daughters to have that special night out. Open to girls ages 6th grade and under. Held in December.

Local Attractions

Frontier Days at Fort Toulouse 2521 W. Fort Toulouse Rd Wetumpka, AL 36093 One of the largest and authentic living history events in Alabama. Demonstrates life on the southern frontier during the 18th and early 19th centuries. Held in November.

(334) 242.4435

(334) 567.5147

(334) 240.4500

(334) 567.3002

cityofwetumpka.com

oldalabamatown.com

fttoulousejackson.org

Junior League Market Multiplex at Cramton Bowl Montgomery, AL 36104 Annual Holiday Market held in October.

(334) 288.8816

jlmontgomery.org

launchtrampolinepark.com

Rockin Jump 5544 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36117 Jump and soar in our open trampoline park. Café and tables provided for parents.

(334) 239.2587

rockinjump.com

Alabama Department of Archive & History 624 Washington Avenue Montgomery, AL 36130 Take a glimpse into Alabama’s past with valuable preserved records and artifacts at the Alabama Department of Archives and History. archives.state.al.us

Alabama State Capitol 600 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36130 Schedule a tour of one of the oldest capitols and learn about the history of Alabama.

(334) 242.3184

ahc.alabama.gov

Biscuits Baseball 200 Coosa Street Montgomery , AL 36104 Love baseball? Come join us for a great season of Biscuits Baseball at the Riverwalk Stadium. Con-

65

cessions available. Stay and watch the fireworks after scheduled games.

(334) 323.2255

milb.com

Blount Cultural Park Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Beautiful park located between ASF and MMFA. Bring the kids to fly a kite, have a picnic by one of the beautiful lakes or walk the many walking trails.

Visit the Shakespeare garden and the dog park.

(334) 625.2300

funinmontgomery.com

Centre for African American Culture 1345 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Offers classroom instruction and curriculum through its living museum, seminars, and publications. Is open to all who are interested in studying the modern civil rights movement.

(334) 229.4824

lib.alasu.edu

Civil Rights Memorial Center 400 Washington Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 The Civil Rights Memorial was built to honor the 41 people killed in the struggle for equal and integrated treatment of all people. splcenter.org

Dexter Avenue King Memorial Baptist Church 454 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 Known for Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s hope and change speech.

(334) 263.3970

dexterkingmemorial.com

First White House of the Confederacy 644 Washington Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 The residence where President Jefferson Davis and his family resided when the Confederate States of American was in Montgomery.

(334) 242.1861

firstwhitehouse.org

Fort Toulouse/Jackson Park 2521 W. Fort Toulouse Rd Wetumpka, AL 36093 Historic Fort near the City of Wetumpka founded by the French in 1717.

(334) 567.3002

fttoulousejackson.org

Governor’s Mansion 1142 S. Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 13 First families have resided here in the past 60+ years. Free guided tours with reservations.

(334) 242.7100

governor.alabama.gov

Harriott II 255 Commerce Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Enjoy a scenic ride on the Alabama River on the Harriott II. Book for parties and reserve a spot on their dinner cruises. Scenic lunch and dinner cruises available.

(334) 625.2100

funontheriver.net

Meteor Crater 408 S. Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 One of the greatest natural disasters in the history of Alabama. Come see the 5 mile wide impact crater.

(334) 567.5147

meteorcrater.com

Montgomery Zoo 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36110 This 40 acre zoo is divided into 5 continents. Ride the skylift, rent a paddle boat, take a train or walk the beautifully landscaped pathways to view over 500 animals.

(334) 240.4900

montgomeryzoo.com

National Memorial for Peace and Justice 417 Carolina Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Dedicated to the legacy of enslaved African Americans. Reflect America’s history of racial inequality.

(334) 386.9100

museumandmemorial.eji.org

Old Alabama Town 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104 A collection of restored 19th and 20th Century structures that display the lives of the people who settled and developed Central Alabama.

(334) 240.4500

oldalabamatown.com

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Coosa River Adventures 415 Company Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Paddle along the Coosa River for fun. We offer rentals of all types for your adventure.

2021

(334) 514.0279

coosariveradventures.com

Lagoon Park & Golf 2855 Lagoon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36109 Gorgeous 18-hold public golf course. Amenities include: lighted driving range, chipping and putting area and private lessons.

(334) 240.4050

playmontgomerygolf.com

Lower Wetumpka Shotgun Sports Club 4758 Wetumpka Road Wetumpka, AL 36110 Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned professional we have something for you. Choose from clay courses, covered 5-stand, wobble trap, skeet field, and continental pheasant hunts.

(334) 420.3371

lwssc.com

Montgomery Bicycle Club Recreational and competitive bicycling promoted for the Central Alabama area and increase bicycle safety awareness. Local Rides listed on our website.

The Alley 133 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Modeled after New Orleans, the Alley offers unique restaurants, bars and shops.

trails and large open play space.

W.A. Gayle Planetarium 1010 Forest Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 Auditorium setting with a 50 foot domed ceiling. View the planets, sky and many other show throughout the year. Located in the beautiful Oak Park.

Cooter’s Pond 1844 Cooter’s Pond Prattville, AL 36066 Located on the banks of the river. Fenced in area for your pups to play with shade and fountains.

(334) 387.3333

(334) 625.4799

alleystation.com

montgomery.troy.edu/planet

Parks & Playgrounds Blount Cultural Park 3 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Open play area and miles of walking trails. Shakespeare Garden, Dog Park and ponds on sight.

(334) 625.2300

funinmontgomery.com

Ida Bell Young Park 5400 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Playground, tennis courts and walking trails.

Picnic area and bathrooms available.

(334) 625.2300

funinmontgomery.com

Lagoon Park 2855 Lagoon Park Drive Montgomery, AL 36109 5 miles of biking and walking trails, playgrounds, batting cages and tennis courts.

(334) 240.4050

funinmontgomery.com

Memorial Center Park 3168 Park Circle Millbrook, AL 36054 Walking trails, creek and Kids Kingdom Playground.

(334) 285.7277

cityofmillbrook.org

Pratt Park 460 Doster Road Prattville, AL 36067 Walking trails, “A Child’s Place” Playground, Splash pad and community pool.

(334) 595.0080

prattvilleal.gov

Riverfront Park 335 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Splash pad, river boat rides, concerts at the Amphitheatre and Biscuits baseball near by.

(334) 625.2100

funinmontgomery.com

Vaughn Road Park 3620 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Boundless playgrounds, tennis courts and walking River Region Parents I June 2021

(334) 625.2300

funinmontgomery.com

Parks for Dogs

(334) 595.0800

prattvilleal.gov

Hannah Daye Ridling Bark Park 6055 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 5 acre park made especially for your furry pet.

Separate areas for large and small dogs.

(334) 625.2300

funinmontgomery.com

Rotary Dog Park Rotary Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Dog park located downtown near the Riverfront.

Features water fountains dog sized and separate areas for large and small dogs.

(334) 625.2300

funinmontgomery.com

Recreation

oconnortenniscenter.com

Alabama Nature Center 3050 Lanark Road Wetumpka , AL 36054 Outdoor facility that offers nature walks, educational programs, Day Camps, Homeschool programs and seasonal programs. Outdoor classroom, Pavilion and fishing available.

(334) 285.4550

alabamawildlife.org

Civil Axe Throwing 39 Dextre Avenue, Unit 2 Montgomery, AL 36104 Civil Axe provides a simple, thrilling activity in a safe and relaxed atmosphere.

(334) 209.5576

civilaxethrowing.com

Coosa Outdoor Center 172 River Road Wetumpka, AL 36092 Everything you need for some fun on the Coosa!

Rentals, Campgrounds and Event sites available.

(334) 201.5510

Montgomery Miracle League Where every child deserves a chance. We provide opportunities for children and adults with physical/cognitive disabilities.

(334) 300.1088

coosaoutdoorcenter.com

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montgomeryamerican.com

River Region Runners Dedicated to serving all levels of runners. Be kept up to date on local runs, receive discounts on runs and merchandise, build friendships and gain support with other local runners.

(334) 595.9786

riverregionrunners.org

Swayback Bike Trail Jordan Dam Road Wetumpka , AL 36092 On the shores of Lake Jordan and offers 12 miles of biking/hiking.

(334) 567.9090

trailoflegends.org

YMCA Grandview 4700 Camp Grandview Rd Millbrook, AL 36054 Large facility with pools, Indoor basketball court, camps and sports. Please call for more information about what we have to offer and pricing.

(334) 290.9622

O’ Connor Tennis Center 500 Anderson Street Montgomery, AL 36107 O’Connor Tennis Center features a 12 court facility + two 36’ courts for children. Ben Bradshaw is a certified USPTA Elite professional who teaches private lessons. Multiple tennis lessons and clinics available. Please visit our website for information.

(334) 240.4884

mgmbikeclub.org

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Montgomery 880 South Lawrence St Montgomery, AL 36104 Choose from many of our programs: Childcare & Early Learning, Fitness, Swimming, Camps, Youth Sports, Adult Sports, Youth Programs, Senior Programs and Adventure Guides. Please visit our website for more information about our 12 locations what they have to offer.

(334) 269.4362

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Prattville 972 McQueen Smith Rd S Prattville, AL 36066 We offer Childcare, Education and Leadership, Swim, Sports & Play and Camp. Please visit our website for more information on our 5 locations and pricing.

(334) 365.5582

prattvilleymca.org

YMCA Wetumpka 200 Red Eagle Drive Wetumpka, AL 36092 We offer adult sports, aquatics, before and after school childcare, Summer Day Camps and Youth Sports. Please call for more information and pricing.

(334) 567.8282

ymcamontgomery.org rrp

www.riverregionparents.com

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Have you experienced the burnout that comes from trying to live the good life on your own energy? Unlock the sustainable power to nourish a fruitful life by discovering how to connect with God’s Spirit within. Join us at Frazer for this practical summer sermon series, Sundays at 8:00, 9:30 or 11:00 a.m.

To plan your visit, go to frazer.church/plan.

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SUNDAY WORSHIP 8:00, 9:30 & 11:00 AM | WATCH LIVE ON TV & ONLINE DOWNLOAD OUR APP | 6000 ATLANTA HWY | WWW.FRAZER.CHURCH 67

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What’s the Best Game Console for Kids?

If your kids are at the age where you’re considering buying a game console, now might be the right time. Whether you want the immersive virtual reality of the Sony PlayStation or the portability of the Nintendo Switch, today’s consoles offer more realism, interactivity, and flexibility than ever before. The question still remains: Which console is best for your family’s needs?

Best for Families with Young Kids: Nintendo Switch/Switch Lite With games such as Animal Crossing: New Horizons, Super Mario Party, and Ring Fit Adventure, as well as cool activity packs such as the Labo Toy-Con Variety Kit, Nintendo maintains its position as the best option for families to use together. The Switch works both as a stationary console that plugs into your TV and a portable gaming device with two built-in controllers and a touchscreen. The recently released Switch Lite, on the other hand, uses the same games as the Switch, but it’s strictly a portable station that’s designed only for gaming on the go. While the Switch library does offer its share of mature games, the consoles include parental controls so you can help your kids regulate their use. Check out the Best Nintendo Switch Games for Kids.

Best for Tweens and Families: Microsoft Xbox One S and Sony PlayStation 4 These may be the basic systems from Microsoft and Sony, but they’re still very powerful and run all of the games that you can get your hands on. One of River Region Parents I June 2021

the big advantages is that you can often find these machines bundled with a few games to play along with the system.

Xbox One S is a better choice for families who already own a lot of Xbox games, as it will play some Xbox 360 titles. If you’re tired of discs cluttering things up, consider the Xbox One S All-Digital Edition console which stores all your games in the cloud. The PS4, by contrast, provides access to older PS3 games through its digital store and its PS Now service.

Of course, violent games such as Resident Evil 3, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Wolfenstein: Youngblood are available for each, but so are family-friendly titles such as The Lego Marvel Collection, Madden NFL 21, and The Jackbox Party Pack 7. Plus, both systems contain parental controls with customizable family settings to control screen time and purchase limits, as well as content filters to block inappropriate games for kids.

Best for Tweens, Teens, and Serious Gamers:

Microsoft Xbox Series X, Microsoft Xbox Series S, Sony PlayStation 5, Sony PlayStation Pro, Sony PlayStation VR If your kids are really passionate about games, then these machines are the best -- if not the only -- choices. At the high end of the price range and advanced features are the Xbox Series X and the PlayStation 5, which are ultrafast and provide super-realistic graphics.

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Microsoft unveiled two systems in November 2020: the Xbox Series X, and the smaller Series S. While both can play the latest titles, the Series S was designed to be all-digital -- without a disc drive -- while the Series X was designed to be the most powerful game console ever made. Both benefited from Microsoft’s dedication to backward compatibility, meaning any game bought for any Microsoft console can be played on either machine. Check out our favorite Xbox Series X/S Games for Kids.

Sony’s most powerful system to date, the PlayStation 5, launched in November 2020, as well, becoming one of the most sought-after systems that holiday season.

It could play both PlayStation 4 games and the latest releases for the system, and could present visuals in 4K resolution, meaning players received jaw-dropping visuals as they played the latest releases.

Keep in mind that, though there are plenty of games for each console designed for tweens and younger, the vast majority of Xbox and PlayStation games are intense and mature. But there are still plenty of titles to get players’ hearts pumping, whether it’s the manic rhythm of Just Dance 2021, the off-road racing of Dirt 5, or the stadium-rocking noise of FIFA 21.

Sony has the edge for virtual reality with its PlayStation VR headset designed to work with the PS4 and PS4 Pro. PSVR provides a totally immersive, virtual reality game experience. There’s a number of impressive games for the headset, like the anti-bullying-themed Concrete Genie, the colorful and entertaining links of Everybody’s Golf VR, and the soaring adventure of Falcon Age. For more game suggestions, take a look at our list of Thought-Provoking and Nonviolent Games for Tweens and Teens, Nonviolent Games for PS4, Nonviolent Games for Xbox One, and the best video games for teens. www.riverregionparents.com

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City of Montgomery: Capital City Independence Day Celebration

July 3rd, 2021 Gates open at 5:30.

Concert starts at 6 p.m.

Blount Cultural Park Music, Food and Beverage Vendors.

Chairs, blankets and pets allowed.

Fireworks at dusk.

For more details call (334) 625.2100

Callaway Gardens: July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party

in the

River Region

Annual Flag Boat Parade

Sunday, July 4, beginning at 10 a.m. at Kowaliga Marina on Lake Martin. Boats of all sizes parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor and back. Onlookers from the shoreline and water can watch free of charge. Boat registration is due

by July 1. Forms can be picked up at any Russell Marine location - Kowaliga, Real Island, The Ridge and River North. For outof-towners, call (256) 397.1210 to request a form. Registration is free.

Prattville Celebration

Annual 4th of July Parade: On Saturday, July 3rd at 9am, family members of all ages will enjoy the fire engines, candy, floats and more. This years Grand Marshals will be announced shortly. Bring your lawn chair and set up early for a good spot along the parade route. Begins at the Autauga County Courthouse and winds its way downtown. For information, call 595-0854.

Annual Lion’s Club BBQ: The annual Lion’s Club Bar-B-Q and Camp Stew Sale will take place at Pratt Park, July 3rd, from 8 a.m. until 2 p.m. There will be music, a patriotic program, bake sale and arts and crafts. This year a children’s fun area will be featured, and the Pratt Pool will be open for public swimming July 3 from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. and from July 4 from 1 p.m.-6 p.m.

Call 358.1068 for info.

River Region Parents I June 2021

Fireworks: July 4th at the Home Place Clock Tower. Begins at dark.

Farmers Market: July 3 from 7 a.m. until noon across from Pratt Park. Great for youth and adult community service organizations. Call 595.0854 or visit www. prattvilleal.gov for more information.

Russell Lands 4th of July Blast: Concert and Fireworks Lake Martin Amphitheater will host a night of music and fireworks on Sunday, July 4.

Gates open at 5 p.m. Music starts at 6:30 p.m. and fireworks will begin at 9 p.m.

(This is one of the Southeast’s largest fireworks shows.) The fireworks show is free (from an open field adjacent to the amphitheater or by boat), but for the best seat in the house and to enjoy the musical entertainment, tickets are available at the gate or amponlakemarting.com for $10, with children under 6 free.

Music Entertainment will be The Bank Walkers and Sweet Pea Trio. Proceeds benefit Lake Martin area charities. Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and picnics.

Concessions are also available. Lake Martin Amphitheater is located on Highway 63 about 1 mile south of Kowaliga Bridge. For more information call (256) 397.1019 or visit www.russelllands onlakemartin.com.

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The celebration begins early and lasts well into the night at our annual July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party at Robin Lake Beach. Highlights include beach activities, live music and our annual Fireworks Extravaganza. Be sure to pack plenty of red, white and blue for this All-American Weekend! Stay tuned for complete schedule of events. Please visit www.callawaygardens. com for more information.

Pike Road Summer Fest Thursday, July 1 from 5 p.m.-9 p.m.

The Town of Pike Road is excited to invite the community to SummerFest at SweetCreek Farm Market on the evening of July 1. This community celebration of patriotic spirit will be a nod back to the history of our community and this annual tradition.

Of course, there will be fireworks! Stay tuned for more information as this familyfriendly event approaches.

For more information, please call (334) 272.9883 or visit www.Pikeroad.us

Wetumpka Celebration

Saturday, July 3rd Fireworks will be at 8:30 p.m. at Gold Star Park.

Please visit www.cityofwetumpka.com for more information and updates. or call (334) 567.5147.

Cloverdale-Idlewild Parade

Sunday July 4, at 2 p.m. at the corner of Plymouth and Lexington.

Ends at Bottom Park on Cloverdale Rd. Drums, bikes, floats. At 6 p.m. there will be a band. Dress in your red, white and blue and join this old fashioned 4th of July celebration.

Contact Charlie Colvin, 834.6030.

Have a Happy and Safe Fourth of July! www.riverregionparents.com

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Millbrook Student Wins American Heritage Girls Award

Pink and Pearls for Girls Get Involved

Pink and Pearls for Girls attended This Side of The Bridge. The girls engaged and focused on youth in the community—learning how to be involved and diverse well-rounded citizens.

Girl Scouts Show Appreciation for Hometown Heroes

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama aims to show community support and say thank you through its Hometown Heroes program. With the help of the community, GSSA has donated more than 3,228 boxes of cookies in the greater Montgomery area. The council has made donations to Maxwell Air Force Base, Gunter Air Force Base, Mercy House, Welcome Food Pantry, Jackson Hospital, Baptist Hospital, City of Montgomery – Dept. of Emergency Communications, Prattville Fire Department, and several local schools.

GSSA also made a very special delivery of 42,432 packages to Soldiers’ Angels, which will go to troops serving overseas.

A Millbrook teenager is the first in her troop and in the tri-county area to win the highest award in the American Heritage Girls organization.

Abigail Fields, 17, earned her Stars and Stripes Award by spearheading a five-month project to landscape an area in front of the Millbrook Economic Development Center/Millbrook Chamber of Commerce building around the flagpole. Her Troop AL0125 and Trail Life boys, both from Millbrook Presbyterian Church, did most of the work. Another group from Frazer United Methodist Church assisted. The area around the flagpole was landscaped with drought-resistant plants and paving stones, enhancing the entrance to Millbrook’s downtown area and directing focus toward the American flag.

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River Region Parents I June 2021

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Parents want to do the best they can when it comes to their kids. The majority of our time and effort goes towards supporting and taking care of our children.

We work hard to make sure our kids are happy and healthy. Why do we often end up feeling like our best efforts still aren’t enough?

Here are some tips that can change your perspective and help you realize that you are enough for your kids.

Stop the comparisons The biggest trap parents fall into is comparing yourself to others. This is unfair because no two parents are the same and no family situation or child is the same.

What works for you may not work for another family and each family’s values, dynamic, and interests are different. Because of this, comparisons are not worth worrying over. In the age of social media, it can be hard not to think everyone has a picture-perfect life but it’s important to remember that social media only shows you a picture, often staged and filtered, and is not a true reflection of their daily lives.

Reality check Sometimes we all need to give ourselves a reality check. Remember, all sib-

is not enough it is because I put too many expectations on myself. I do not enjoy craft projects, so why do I feel the need to do them with my kids? I do enjoy cooking and having my kids help me. If I choose the activity I enjoy more, my kids get quality time with me that we both enjoy. Be honest with yourself about your expectations for your kids and for yourself. Do your best with what you have and enjoy it along the way.

Count your blessings lings have conflict, all kids throw tantrums, all houses get messy, and all parents get tired. Things are never perfect for anyone.

It is wise to remember this when you start to get down about a situation that is making you feel like you aren’t enough. Reaching out to a friend, you will often find that they too experience similar situations. It is nice to have the camaraderie that comes from knowing that they are experiencing the same battles in their life too.

Do what you love Some people are great at interior design, some love craft projects, others have culinary skills, and still others are efficient and organized. We may strive to be the best at all of these things to our families, but it usually doesn’t work out that way.

Focus on what you love and enjoy those things with your family. There is no reason to beat yourself up over things you do not enjoy. Sometimes when I feel like my best

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One way to change your perspective from negative to positive is to start counting your blessings. It is so easy to focus on negatives when the great things going on in your life are passing you by.

Start by listing five blessings per day. Write them down. When you are feeling down go back and read them and you will most likely feel an attitude boost in no time.

Your child loves you One of the most important things to remember is that your kids love you. Even when you are tired, overworked, overlooked, and feel like your best is not enough, your kids will love you anyway. They love spending time with you. They love your gifts and quirks. They may not always act appreciative or show their love in an obvious way, but they do love you. The consistency, support, and love that you show them every day does not go to waste. It is enough.

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and frequent contributor.

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

FamilyCalendar Tuesday, June 1

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents “Tutus and Tiaras” -- Through June 4 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Ave. For children ages 3-8.

Classes include pre-ballet, creative movement, crafts, and story time. Performance June 4 at noon for family and friends. For registration or more info, e-mail adtdance1@gmail.com or call (334) 625-2590. Also visit www.alabamadancetheatre.com.

Kids Club Online Craft Classes -- Other projects available June 3, 10, 17 & 28 4 p.m. For more info or to sign up, visit https://www. michaels.com/onlineclasses.

Wednesday, June 2

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Community Market in Wetumpka -First Thursdays through November 5-8 p.m. Merchant Alley, Downtown Wetumpka. Join us in Merchants Alley (along the riverwalk behind Hill Street) first Thursdays through November and enjoy shopping local from community merchants!

If you’d like to be a vendor, e-mail market@ mainstreetwetumpka.org.

Friday, June 4

Friday on the Green -- Also June 18 & 25; July 2 & 9 6:30-8:30 p.m. Town Green at Russell Crossroads, 19 Russell Farms Road, Alexander City. Free music and entertainment. For more info, visit www.russelllands. com/ or call (256) 397-1019.

Elmore County 4-H In-Person ProgramsWeekly through July 14 Most programs begin at 9 a.m. Options include cooking, gardening, archery, coding and shotgun. Cost is $8 per class. Space is limited. Register at V2.4honline and choose “Summer Day Camp 2021.” For more info, call (334) 567-6301 or e-mail laurie.weldon@auburn.edu.

Summer Fund and Food Drive 5 a.m.-7 p.m. Renfroe’s Market, 9168 EastChase Parkway. Help support the Montgomery Area Food Bank.

Drive up to Renfroe’s Market with your donations in your trunk or backseat and one of our volunteers will safely assist you. Sponsored by Dixie Electric Cooperative and WSFA. Visit www.wsfa.com for more info.

Wetumpka Works Together Hospitality Job Fair 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wetumpka Civic Center. This is a complementary event for our community to help fill hospitality-focused business positions. For more info, visit http://wetumpkachamber.org.

First Friday ArtWalk in Wetumpka -First Fridays through November 4-8 p.m. Business District, Downtown Wetumpka. Take to the streets every first Friday and watch the village artists in action as they create and curate new pieces of art for onlookers.

Military Wednesday at the Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game -- Also June 9 & 30 6:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium.

We thank all the members of our Armed Forces on Wednesdays by offering ticket, drink and food specials and discounts! For more info, visit https://www.milb. com/montgomery/ or call (334) 819-7483.

Thursday, June 3

Wetumpka Depot Players Present Miss Abigail’s Guide to Dating, Mating and Marriage - Through June 6 7:30 p.m. June 3-5; 2 p.m. June 6. Written by Ken Davenport & Sarah Saltzberg; directed by Kristy Meanor.

It’s Loveline meets Dr. Ruth as Miss Abigail shares her vast knowledge of every piece of relationship literature known to mankind. The audience participates in this hilarious variety show, and Miss Abigail’s strapping assistant is there to provide for her every need. For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

T-Shirt Giveaway at the Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game -- Also June 10 & July 1 6:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. The first 1,000 fans 15 & older through the gates will go home with a T-shirt presented by different sponsors each week. For more info, visit https://www.milb.com/montgomery/ or call (334) 819-7483.

Summer Nights at The Shoppes -Every Thursday in June 7-9 p.m., located near H&M at EastChase. This free, live music series, formerly known as Sounds of Summer, brings the best of local music and beyond! Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, pups and the entire family for a free fun night. Inflatable, glitter tattoos and balloons for the kiddos. Food trucks and giveaways every week. Visit theshoppesateastchase.com or follow The Shoppes on Facebook and Instagram.

River Region Parents I June 2021

Giveaway Night at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game -- Also June 11 & July 2 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. We’re giving away different items each week to the first 1,000 fans through our gates! For more info, visit https://www.milb. com/montgomery/ or call (334) 819-7483.

Garden Fun at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts -- Thursdays, Fridays & Saturdays through June 26 10 a.m.-2 p.m. This spring, families can enjoy outdoor games and art activities in the Garden. Visitors can play with giant building blocks, Connect Four, and cornhole on the lawn, read children’s art books under the trees, play make-believe with our puppet stage, and create colorful patterns with our weaving wall. Families will also be able to take part in art activities in our outdoor Education Courtyard. For more info, call (334) 625-4333 or visit https://mmfa.org/.

Saturday, June 5

Alabama Nature Center’s Hydrangea Fest 8 a.m.-noon. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. Maria Pacheco-West, Lanark grounds specialist, will speak about hydrangeas beginning at 9:30 a.m., and afterwards there will be a tour of the heirloom garden and hydrangeas around the pond. Lanark Gardens will also have a plant sale with proceeds benefiting the gardens at the Alabama Wildlife Federation. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

Walk with a Sister 9 a.m.-noon. Gateway Golf Course, 3800 Davenport Parkway, Montgomery. H O.M.E. (Helping Our Mothers Endure (loss) by walking in the name of love for those that have lost a loved one. For more info, find us on Facebook.

Sip & Shop Celebration 3-7 p.m. 11 Mercantile, 8449 Holtville Rd., Wetumpka.

For more info, find us on Facebook.

‘90s Night with MAX Fireworks at the Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game 6:35 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Hear your favorite ‘90s music and see your favorite clips between innings while enjoying food & drink options inspired by the 1990s.

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Stick around after the game for a MAX Fireworks Show!

For more info, visit https://www.milb.com/montgomery/ or call (334) 819-7483.

Wetumpka Cruiser -- Every First Saturday 4-6 p.m. Downtown Wetumpka.

Montgomery Exotic Pet Expo -- Also June 6 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday; 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.

Alcazar Shriners, 555 Eastern Blvd. From face painting, mini pigs, sugar gliders, hedgehogs, finches, various species of parrots, geckos, various species of snakes, tarantulas, scorpions, frogs, dry goods, frozen feeders, feeder insects, supplies, and more!

Admission is $3 for ages 12 and up; free for under the age of 12. For more info, find us on Facebook.

Prattville Farmers Market 2021 Season -Saturdays through August 7 a.m.-noon. Grove across from the Gillespie Senior Center on Doster Road. For more info, call (334) 5950850 or find us on Facebook.

Yoga on the Green -- Saturdays through Sept. 25 8-9 a.m. In the green space adjacent to Pies + Pints at Shoppes at EastChase. Free classes are hosted by Breezeville Yoga and Bandaloop Yoga. Please bring your own mat and bottle of water. For more info, find us on Facebook.

Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market Saturdays through September 25 7 a.m.-noon. One of the top five largest markets in Alabama, the Shoppes at EastChase Farmers Market is back for its 17th year. Guests will enjoy goods from more than 40 vendors featuring homemade breads, jams, baked goods, Wagyu beef, local honey and more.

Everything is grown or made in the state of Alabama!

Visit theshoppesateastchase.com or follow The Shoppes on Facebook and Instagram.

Sunday, June 6

Poster Giveaway & Bark in the Park at the Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game 6:35 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. We’ll celebrate the Tampa Bay Ray with a poster giveaway to the first 500 kids 14 & under. Bring your leashed 4-legged friend with you. Don’t forget to join the Lil’ Crumbs Kids Club pres. by Go Fish Alabama, offering complimentary Sunday game tickets along with a variety of other perks.

For more info, visit https://www.milb.com/montgomery/ or call (334) 819-7483.

Monday, June 7

ACT Test Prep Classes at AUM -Through June 10 Prepare for the ACT exam and improve your Science test scores! Students can choose to attend class in-person or online using the Zoom web application.

Masks are required for attending in-class sessions.

Classes will meet Monday through Thursday from 6-8 p.m. Books will be provided at first class meeting.

Course costs $119. Call (334) 244-3804 or visit www. aum.edu/continuingeducation/.

Snapology Superheroes Camp -- Through June 11 8:30-11:30 a.m. Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Ave. For ages 6-14. Design your own superhero using LEGO bricks, create your own adventure and comic strip.

Have a blast as you create your own fantasy world of superheroes. For more info, call (334) 318-2824 or visit www.snapology.com/location/montgomery.

www.riverregionparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Elmore County 4-H Summer Virtual STEAM Programs - Weekly through June 28 Join us on Facebook Live each Monday at 2 p.m. Topics include catapults, smoke jumper parachutes, seed germination and warm fuzzy. Register at V2.4honline and choose “Summer Virtual Club.” For more info, call (334) 567-6301 or e-mail laurie.weldon@auburn.edu.

Alabama Dance Theatre Summer Classes -Through July 8 Classes will be held at the Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Ave. Choice of Classical Ballet (age 3 to the professional level), Modern, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, Composition/Choreography and Broadway! For more info, e-mail adtdance1@ gmail.com or call (334) 625-2590. Also visit www. alabamadancetheatre.com.

Armory Athletics Gymnastics Classes Start Limited availability. Call (334) 625-2789 to reserve your spot.

Thursday, June 10

MPAC Presents The Junkyard -- Also July 8 6-10 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. The Junkyard is an open mic events for friends to decompress from stress and pressures of life through music and love.

It provides people the opportunity to express themselves musically and others to enjoy the camaraderie and entertainment at no charge. For tickets or more info, visit mpaconline.org/events/ or call (334) 481-5100.

Story Time in the Montgomery Museum of Art Galleries: What Do You Do with an Idea?

8 a.m.-5 p.m. Observe the beautiful illustrations as you listen to the story by Kobi Yamada. Visit https://www. youtube.com/user/MontgomeryMFA.

City of Wetumpka Farmer’s Market -- Weekly 4-7 p.m. 304 E. Coosa St., Downtown Wetumpka.

Friday, June 11

Wetumpka Depot Presents Collected Stories Through June 13 7:30 p.m. June 11-12; 2 p.m. June 13. Written by Donald Margulies; directed by Pat Yates. The Wetumpka Depot is hosting South City Theatre for a weekend of Collected Stories, which has been invited to participate in the national community theatre festival. For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Pooches on the Coosa Pageant 6-8 p.m. Wetumpka Alleyway. $20 fee per participant and includes formal wear, swimwear, and a talent portion. Event proceeds benefit Humane Society of Elmore County and Main Street Wetumpka. For more info, find us on Facebook.

Alexander City Jazz Fest -Also June 12 6-10 p.m. The Alexander City Jazz Fest, a non-ticketed event, will be held over two nights.

Friday night is in Strand Park, downtown Alex City, and Saturday night at The AMP On Lake Martin. For more info, call (256) 397-1019 or visit www.alexcityjazzfest.com.

Saturday, June 12

NAMI Alabama Corn Hole Charity Classic 10 a.m. AFW Lanark Park Pavilion, Millbrook. Sponsored

by National Alliance on Mental Illness. Sponsorships and team spots available. For more info, call (334) 399-2044 or e-mail Roman@NamiAlabama.org.

Also visit namialabama.org/event/nami-alabamacornhole-classic.

Family Faith Night with MAX Fireworks at the Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game 6:05 p.m. Riverwalk Stadium. Join us for the first of two Family Faith Nights at Riverwalk Stadium. Enjoy faith based music and themes all ending with a MAX Fireworks Show. For more info, visit https://www.milb. com/montgomery/ or call (334) 819-7483.

Sunday, June 13

Toothbrush Holder Giveaway at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game 3:33 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. The first 500 kids 14 & under will receive a Biscuits locomotive toothbrush holder pres. by Dentistry for Children. Don’t forget to join the Lil’ Crumbs Kids Club, offering complimentary Sunday game tickets along with a variety of other perks!

For more info, visit https://www.milb.com/montgomery/ or call (334) 819-7483.

Monday, June 14

Elmore County 4-H Flag Day 2 p.m. Join us on Facebook Live to learn more about the American flag. For more info, call (334) 567-6301 or e-mail laurie.weldon@auburn.edu.

Good Mornings -- Through July 29 9 a.m.-noon. Frazer UMC JEMAC Activity Center. Cost for rising first- through sixth-graders is $6 each day, and $8 each day for early drop off (8 a.m.). For more info, e-mail Liz at lcraig@frazer.church.

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FamilyCalendar Tuesday, June 15

Joe Thomas Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7 p.m. Cloverdale Playhouse Courtyard Stage. Our Singer/Songwriter Series is a great night of original music and songwriters talking about how they craft their music and performing original works on the Playhouse’s intimate stage. Featured artists vary with each performance. Visit www.cloverdaleplayhouse. org/joe-thomas-jr-guitar-pull.

Military Appreciation Days -Through June 17 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Montgomery Zoo. All active duty and retired military personnel are invited to visit the Zoo for free on Military Appreciation Days. Maxwell Air Force Base, the Zoo, the Montgomery Chamber, and local sponsors partner to hold this annual event. For more info, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/.

Wednesday, June 16

Mom2Mom Group for Women -- Wednesdays through July 14 9-11:30 a.m. Frazer UMC Parlor. Mom2Mom is a Frazer women’s ministry to reach moms through encouragement and prayer during these early years of raising our kids. Join us for Bible studies focusing on parenting, marriage, women’s studies and more.

Childcare available for newborn to K5, but preregistration is required. E-mail Cheryl at csmith@frazer. church.

Thursday, June 17

2021 Lunchtime Lecture Series: Food For Thought Third Thursdays at noon. Fascinating hour-long lectures on the history of Alabama presented by the Alabama Department of Archives & History. The ADAH’s public programs remain virtual, livestreaming on Facebook and YouTube. Visit www.archives.alabama.gov or the ADAH’s social media channels (Facebook and Twitter) for more info about upcoming programs. Today’s topic is “The Secret History of Southern Cocktails (in Three Glasses),” presented by Robert F. Moss.

FREE Movie Night Under the Stars -Through July 22 7:15-10 p.m. Armory Learning Arts Center, Montgomery. For six weeks we will celebrate the 1950s and 1960s with six classics that are both enjoyable and family-friendly. Bring a blanket, a lawn chair, some refreshments, and enjoy! For more info, find us on Facebook or call John at (646) 241-7139.

Juneteenth come celebrate African American artistic traditions from Jazz and Soul to sculpture and images from as far back as the 1860s to as recently as 2019!

Grab your picnic blankets, pack your coolers, and join this celebration of freedom centered on culture, creativity and community. For more info, visit mmfa.org/ or call (334) 625-4333.

Introductory to Wood Carving 9 a.m.-noon. Doster Center, 424 S. Northington St., Prattville. Learn the basics of wood carving with instructor Allen Carmichael. Limited availability, so reserve your spot by registering at the Doster Community Center now until June 5. Ages: 15 and up. Cost: $30 per person (tools will be furnished, but you are welcome to bring your own).

For more info, call (334) 595-0800.

Wetumpka Depot Presents Hometown Canteen: A USO-Style Musical - Through June 26 Written & directed by Adrian Lee Bush. Patriotic outdoor family fun! For tickets or more info, visit wetumpkadepot.com or call (334) 868-1440.

Juneteenth Celebration 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Rosa Parks Museum at Troy University, 252 Montgomery St. This event is free and open to the public and includes local food and merchant vendors, live music, and complimentary tours of the museum. Our goal is to celebrate African American freedom with a focus on education, achievement and bringing people together from all walks of life to honestly recognize our shared history. For more info, call (334) 241-5815 or find us on Facebook.

Saturday, June 19

Sunday, June 20

Shout Hallelujah: Juneteenth at the MMFA 9 a.m.-2 p.m.

With the Art Museum and Blount Cultural Park as a backdrop, this

Father’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo 9 a.m.-4 p.m. All dads receive free admission today! For more info, call (334) 625-4900.

Monday, June 21

ACT Test Prep Classes at AUM -- Through July 15 Prepare for the ACT exam and improve your math, science and language test scores! Students can choose

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FamilyCalendar to attend class in-person or online using the Zoom web application. Masks are required for attending in-class sessions. Classes will meet Monday through Thursday from 6-8 p.m. Books will be provided at first class meeting. Full review costs $309; individual courses $119. Call (334) 244-3804 or visit www.aum.edu/ continuingeducation/.

Thursday, June 24

Alabama Nature Center Presents Early Explorers: Birds 10-11 a.m. last Thursday of each month. 3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook. This is a preschool program that ANC offers to the public monthly for children 8 and under.

Includes various theme-related activities! All materials provided. Cost is $5 per participating child; adults free. Space is limited, so call ahead or e-mail mvines@alabamawildlife.org. For more info, visit www.alabamawildlife.org/ or call (334) 285-4550.

ArtTalk at MMFA 6-8 p.m. Free. For more than two decades, the Museum’s ArtTalk has offered local artists constructive feedback and camaraderie. Through its current virtual format, artists from beyond the River Region are able to enjoy the artful discussion too! Participants are invited to submit a work of art or just join the inspiring conversation. Free via Zoom. For more info, call (334) 625-4333 or visit mmfa.org.

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Presents Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express Also June 25-27; July 9-11 and 23-25 7:30 p.m. performances except for 2 p.m. Sunday matinees. Adapted by Ken Ludwig and directed by Brady Walker. A thrilling murder mystery set on a train. For tickets and more info, call (334) 595-0850.

Saturday, June 26

4th Annual Gun Island Chute Cup 9:30 a.m.-noon. Riverfront Park, 355 Commerce Street.

This year’s Stand-Up Paddleboard races have expanded to include registrations for canoes and kayaks, as well as a youth-only 1-mile course! Register for either the 3-mile or 6-mile courses with a SUP board, Tandem Canoe, Solo Canoe, or Solo Kayak. Youths aged 8-18 may register for the 1-Mile course. For registration info and more details, visit https://paddleguru.com/races/.

Friday, July 2

Arti Gras -- Also July 3 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. Artisans and patrons from all over the Southeast gather for this vast annual display of handmade goods. Artisans feature everything from jewelry, soaps, paintings, pottery, woodwork, lotions, furniture, and much more! For more info, e-mail tmitchell@russelllands.com or call (256) 212-1443.

Saturday, July 3

Wetumpka Independence Day Fireworks 8:30 p.m. Gold Star Park. Sponsored by Wind Creek Casino.

Independence Day Parade in Prattville 9 a.m. Downtown Prattville. For more info, call (334) 595-0850.

Patriotic Night w/ MAX Fireworks at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game 6:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. On the eve on Independence Day, we get the party started early and celebrate all things AMERICA! Stick around after the game for a MAX Fireworks Show. For more info, visit https://www.milb.com/montgomery/ or call (334) 819-7483.

Sunday, July 4

Independence Day Celebration w/ MAX Fireworks at Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Game 6:05 p.m. Montgomery Riverwalk Stadium. Few things are more American than catching a baseball game and watching some MAX Fireworks on the 4th of July, so join us! For more info, visit https://www.milb.com/montgomery/ or call (334) 819-7483.

Fourth of July Boat Parade 10 a.m.-noon. Russell Marine – Kowaliga Marina, Alexander City.

Register online up until 9:30 a.m. on the day of the event. Categories include Tallest Flag (must go under bridge), Largest Flag, Most Patriotic Crew, Most Creative Theme and Best Overall Boat and Crew.

Prizes include: Best Overall Boat and Crew – $500 and 1st and 2nd Place – Russell Marine Gift Certificates.

July 4th Concert And Fireworks Show 5:30-10:30 p.m. The Amp on Lake Martin, Eclectic.

Claim your spot early and get ready to have some fun!

Joining us this year for the 4th of July Concert will be, from Alexander City – The Bank Walkers. Also, making a return visit with a brand-new member, Sweet Tea Trio.

Fireworks start at 9 p.m. For info, call (256) 397-1019 or visit http://theamponlakemartin.com/index.html.

Please send calendar info to editor@riverregionparents.com.

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all happen! I feel like you have to be able to separate work life from home life. I do my best to be present with my kids as much as possible. To me, it is precious time that you can’t get back.

RRP: Parenting/motherhood is so rewarding, but also, it can be challenging at times. If given the opportunity, what are three things you would have done differently and why?

Kate: If I could do things over again differently, I would not worry so much. Worry is a waste of energy and time and solves nothing. I would pray more and trust that God is in control. I would enjoy all my time with my kids and not complain when things go wrong. Time can be a thief in the night. Also, I would not put pressure on myself to be “perfect” and realize that “good enough” is good enough for me.

Kate Seale Smith

RRP: It’s evident that you dedicate your heart and time to ADT. What valuable lessons have you learned that you carry with you in your daily life?

RRP: Sine 1986, Alabama Dance Theatre (ADT) continues to make young girls’ dreams come true. What was the inspiration behind Alabama Dance Theatre?

Kate: Dance is such a beautiful art form. It has taught me time management, discipline, perseverance, patience, and compassion. Also, it has given me the confidence to try new things. All of these valuable qualities have helped me tremendously in my everyday life.

Kate: Miss Kitty’s mission was to train, educate, challenge, nurture, and inspire aspiring dancers.

ADT still strives to give kids the opportunity to learn, practice, and reach beyond their capabilities. Dance requires discipline and hard work. These are qualities and gifts that are forever useful in every area of your life. Mom always said, “Dance makes you smarter!” And I believe that.

RRP: Understandably, you have a busy life (children, working career woman, wife, etc.) What do you do when you want to have “me” time?

Kate: I love going to dinner, listening to live music and going dancing. I spent a lot of time on Lake Martin growing up. I love going to the lake, going on boat rides, and watching the sunset.

RRP: Becoming a mother doesn’t come with a user’s manual. And some things are trial and error.

What do you wish you knew when you first became a mom that you know now?

RRP: A mother holds a special place in our hearts. What was your mother’s influence on your life and the life of the theatre?

Kate: That it’s okay to mess up.

Kate: I was very fortunate that my mom was not only my mother, Sometimes mistakes are the best but was my best friend, my mentor, my ballet teacher, my coach, things that could happen to us. It’s and my Bible study leader. She taught me the love of God, to be how we grow as a person and help humble, to respect others, and to self-discipline. Her influence on others. Also, to slow down. Life is my life has been monumental. She was a very busy woman, but in the little details, and we need she always made time for her family, and we loved being around to be present to enjoy all of them.

Kate with her mom, Kitty Seale her. Mom had a way of making everyone she met feel important.

Motherhood comes in many forms, She loved all her dancers and loved giving them opportunities to and it is a gift from God. I am very dance and perform. My mom has played a monumental role in shapthankful and blessed to have the opportunity to be a mom, and I ing numerous children and adults through dance! don’t want to ever take it for granted.

RRP: Having children of your own, how do you balance mom life with theatre life?

Kate was born and raised in Montgomery. She and her husband, Robby Smith, will celebrate their fourth anniversary in August. They have four children: Brooke Smith (18), Bennett Robertson (15), Chapman Robertson (13), and Turner Smith (three years old).

Kate: I love my job very much, and there is something magical about being a mom. Life is a balancing act, and it takes a village to make it

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