River Region Parents - May 2022

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You Hold The Key To Protect With 3!

Tdap

HPV

MCV4

As parents, it is up to you to ensure your children remain up to date with their vaccines.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and The Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) recommend the following vaccines for adolescents: • Tetanus, Diptheria, Pertussis • Human papillomavirus • Meningococcal disease • Influenza

Protect your children against vaccine preventable diseases.

Vaccine:

7-10 Years

11-12 Years

13-18 Years

Tdap

Childhood Catch-up

Recommended

Catch-up

HPV

>9 Years

Recommended

Catch-up

MCV4

High Risk

Recommended

Recommended

Flu

Recommended

For more information, please visit alabamapublichealth.gov/imm

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04.2022

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May2022 50

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Volume 27 Number 5

Columns 6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Kids Say the Wisest Things

Ways Kids Can Cash-In Summer money-making ideas for your tween and teen.

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10 Weeks of Summer

Ten weeks of fun to keep your kids “boredom” free all summer.

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Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

14 Montgomery Education Matters

by Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Interim Superintendent

44 Elmore Education Matters

by Superintendent Richard Dennis

48 Teens, Tweens & Screens

by Kristi Bush, LSW

54 Dinner’s Ready

by Kimberley Carter Spivey

Local and nearby camps, events and activities offer your kids a summer to remember.

8 Great Mom Apps

Simplify your life with one or more of these free apps.

Departments 12 Teacher of the Month

On The Cover Wessie Moates (3) is ready for plenty of fun in the sun this summer! She is the daughter of Josh and Aubrie Moates of Pike Road. She has two older brothers, Ever (12) and Asa (8).

Wessie is obsessed with horses, loves ballet and adores her big brothers.

16 School Bits 64 Movie Reviews 70 Family Calendar 76 Mom to Mom

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Editor’sNote

Parents

As we count down to the last day of school, have you gotten your family’s summer all planned? Or are you the kind of parent who prefers unscheduled days that begin with slow mornings around the house followed by afternoons by the pool? I think a balance somewhere in the middle might be best for me.

I’m definitely looking forward to Grace sleeping past 6 a.m. once her alarm clock can be retired for a few months. And some afternoons by the pool will certainly be nice. However, too much time on Grace’s hands often leads to either iPad overload or “I’m bored” or both at different points in the day. With that in mind, she’s heading to overnight camp in early June, visiting her grandparents in Florida later that month, attending a week long volleyball day camp and also several tutoring sessions to avoid the “summer slide”. I’d say we’re off to a pretty good start!

Whether you have most of summer planned or are just starting to think about it, our May issue has you covered.

Pam Molnar’s article, 10 Weeks of Summer Fun, offers just that...10 unique weekly activities and adventures your kids can help plan and enjoy. All of them may not fit your budget or your family’s lifestyle, but I bet a handful will fit the bill.

Next, our Summer Fun Guide lists details on local day camps and sports clinics, plus a variety of classes, from dance to STEM to art, and more! You’ll also find ideas for fun day trips to enjoy as a family.

If you have a tween or teen, you know this is the age they start desiring more money of their own. What better way for them to make it, learn to spend it wisely and even save some than to get, or create, their own summer job? Ways Kids Can Cash-In, by Kimberly Blaker, offers 16 (yes, 16) ideas for work right in your neighborhood, just down the road at the local pool or even online. She doesn’t know it yet, but I’ve got a couple of these in mind for Grace this summer.

Mother’s Day is May 8 and we’ve included an article exclusively for moms, knowing how busy you are and how much you balance every day. 8 Great Mom Apps to Make Your Life a Little Easier, by Tanni Haas, details apps you can download free to help with everything from daily scheduling to dinner preparations to summer travel. Give yourself a gift by downloading a few of these and simplifying your life.

Happy Mother’s Day, Moms, and Congratulations, Seniors! You made it to graduation and can now continue your exciting journey out into the world. With that in mind, don’t forget to give Mama an extra tight hug this Mother’s Day!

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

Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Kimberly Blaker Kristi Bush, LSW Richard Dennis Tanni Haas, Ph.D. Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Pam Molnar 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 Ad Design Tim Welch

DeAnne

Member

deanne@riverregionparents.com River Region Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. River Region Parents is copyrighted 2022 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.

River Region Parents I May 2022

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3. Regret is a teaching emotion essential for the learning process. Regret helps us remember to think carefully before acting and to learn from our mistakes. Guilt and regret are important for encouraging positive behavior change, shame is not. As a parent, you eliminate shame by focusing on the behavior. Help your children see that their action was wrong without making them feel like they were wrong.

Are You a Lawn Mower Parent?

“Helicopter parents” are becoming obsolete and replaced by “lawn mower parents”. This new breed of parenting style plows ahead of their children, arranging their lives in an attempt to eliminate sorrow, discomfort, and misfortune. “Lawn mower parents” are not preparing their child for the road, they are preparing the road for their child.

This style of parenting is extremely detrimental for an infinite number of reasons, but my greatest concern is that this deficit of hardships will produce a generation of people who have never had the opportunity to become well rounded. Life is full of mishaps, unmet expectations, and things that go horribly wrong.

Parents must stop believing that negative emotions and experiences are unhealthy for their children. In fact, research consistently reveals negative emotions and experiences are a vital part of the growth and development process.

Let’s look at how to help your child handle the “negative emotions” of boredom, disappointment, regret, and discouragement.

1. Boredom is the birthplace of creativity and imagination. Children who are able to

River Region Parents I May 2022

accept boredom as a simple prompt to find things to do are forced to fully engage their creativity and imagination. Creativity helps develop innovation, but imagination is the most important building block for problem solving. We have to be able to imagine a solution before we can learn to create a plan of action.

2. Disappointment is the emotion we experience when do not meet our own expectations or the expectations of others.

The ability to handle disappointment well is a skill that must be practiced. Use disappointments as opportunities for connection and communication through the development of expectation management. Help your child learn how to manage expectations by going over all the possible things that will take place and practice appropriate responses.

To help your child manage his/her own expectations ask, “What are you imagining this to look like or what are you thinking about this?” You might be surprised to find out exactly how accurate or inaccurate his/her expectations are.

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4. Discouragement takes place when we lose confidence. Help your child use the feeling of discouragement to determine any necessary changes and then help him/her try again. Teach your children this Thomas Edison quote, “Many of life’s failures are people who did not realize how close they were to success when they gave up. I have not failed. I’ve just found ten thousand ways that won’t work.”

It is not your job as a parent to eliminate difficulties. However, it is unfair to expect your child to embrace them with a positive attitude. All you can do is sit with them in their heartbreak. When they are ready, give them words to better understand their complex emotions and difficult experiences. If you do this, you will help your child become a resilient adult with the ability to keep going in the face adversity. This is how you prepare your child for the road.

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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Montgomery Jubilee 8K and 2 Mile Runs/Walk

Art and the Automobile: Cocktail Party and Silent Auction

Blippi the Musical

May 18 * 6 pm Montgomery Performing Arts Centre You and your whole family are going to have so much fun, dancing, singing and meeting amazing new friends LIVE on stage!

Wow, look at that! It’s a plane, a tractor, a fire truck and a train, just some of the many discoveries we’re going to make together!

Visit www.mpaconline.org for tickets.

May 13 * 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts The Museum will host an evening in the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden featuring some of the most exquisite, vintage, and state-of-the-art cars in Montgomery and the surrounding areas to celebrate the decades-long passion of car enthusiasts, collectors, and lovers of design. If you’re a car enthusiast, collector, or simply a lover of automobile design, then plan to join the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts for this year’s Spring fundraiser, Art and the Automobile. Tickets for the cocktail party and silent auction with automobile owners, dealers, and sponsors are $60 per person.

Visit www.mmfa.org for tickets.

May 14 * 7:30 a.m.

Old Alabama Town Come join the excitement of Montgomery’s longest-standing competitive running event! This traditional event features competitive runs/walk on 8K and 2-Mile USATF certified courses. The River Region Runners’ Club is once again proud to plan, organize, and host the 2022 Montgomery Jubilee Run in its 43rd year. This year’s event will raise funds for the Alabama Sheriffs Youth Ranches. The runs will be staged from historic Old Alabama Town.

The 8K running event attracts runners from all over the River Region, Alabama, and beyond! In addition to the 8K, there will be a 2-mile run in honor of Peggy McLendon Lanier. We have added walk division to the Peggy Lanier Memorial 2 mile to encourage all levels of fitness!

More info at runsignup.com/Race/Events/ AL/Montgomery/JubileeRuns.

Truck, Car, Audio Mega Show and Food Festival

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King Kong MayDay

May 21 * Gates open at 10 a.m.

Montgomery’s Evans Park, 2964 Birmingham Hwy. The baddest trucks, cars, bikes and motorsport vehicles in the South will be on display at this family-friendly event!

World famous King Kong trophies return as champions defend their titles. Gates open at 10 a.m. Bring your tents and lawn chairs. We will have a deep selection of food vendors, so come hungry!

Call 334.475.0855 for more information or visit eventbrite for tickets.

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RXR Fest at Russell Crossroads “Anastasia” New Broadway Musical May 31 & June 1 * 7:30 p.m.

Gogue Performing Arts Center at Auburn University Inspired by the beloved films, the romantic and adventure-filled new musical Anastasia is on a journey to Auburn at last! From the Tony Award-winning creators of the Broadway classic Ragtime, this dazzling show transports us from the twilight of the Russian Empire to the euphoria of Paris in the 1920s, as a brave young woman sets out to discover the mystery of her past.

Find tickets at https://goguecenter. auburn.edu/anastasia/ 10

May 27 & 28 * 6:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Russell Lands, Lake Martin Join us from 6:30-9:30 both nights for some really good music, good food, and a good time – and that is just part of the line-up for this year’s RXR Fest.

Call 256.397.1019 or stay tuned at www.russelllands.com for details.

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Flimp Festival 2022

May 7 * 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Stir your creative spirit, ignite your imagination, and enjoy the whimsical sights and sounds in the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden. This annual event is perfect for young families and children. Visit https://mmfa.org/.

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Agape’s 12th Annual Run For a Mom

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May 7 * Vaughn Park Church of Christ Put on your running shoes and come join us for the 12th annual Agape For A Mom 5K, 10K, and Fun Run. The in-person race will have a staggered start beginning at 7:30am. You can start your 5K or 10K race anytime between 7:30am and 8:00am.

Agape is a Christian foster care and adoption agency. To learn more and register, visit agapeforchildren.org.

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Art in the Garden Thursday, May 12 1919 Hull Street, Montgomery, AL Art Splash has become a premier event for our city when individual and corporate sponsors come together to support over 25 of the River Region’s finest artists and to raise scholarships for students at Montgomery Christian School. This year’s event will include an afternoon Garden Preview Event ($25), an evening Sponsor Preview Party and a Virtual Auction.

Please contact MCS at (334) 386-1749 or www.MontgomeryChristianSchool.org.

Prattville Cityfest May 6 and 7 * 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Arts and Crafts festival with food, entertainment, and children’s activities, including free inflatables, pony rides, petting zoo and more. Check our website www.prattvillecityfest.com.

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$

May 14th * Begins at 11 a.m.

Held at Century Church at their Marler Road location.

This fun, family event provides support to the Pike Road Schools arts and athletics programs.

They will be cooking over 5,500 pounds of crawfish and there will be live music and activities for the kids. If you have never had the chance to attend this event before—this year will be one you do not want to miss.

Visit their website at pikeroadpatriotfund. com to learn more about our sponsorship levels, ticket information, and how you can get involved with this event.

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Bonnie Capps Saint James School

attributes made determining where to plant her roots effortless.

Mrs. Capps goes on to say, “Kindergarten specifically holds a special place in my heart. Although teaching children to read and write is a large part of kindergarten, it is a year that embraces and encourages exploration, creativity, play, singing, dancing, and all the fun things that are also super important for this age.”

Mrs. Capps continues to practice and master her craft of teaching through creativity and professional development courses to plan for each new school year. As a teacher, she desires to set standards and expectations high; however, attainable for her future leaders. By accomplishing this, she establishes an environment for her students to feel loved and secure, making every minute count while being intentional to keep them fulfilled and engaged throughout the day.

“I never want to become complacent, and I always want to challenge myself to evolve and embrace new teaching styles and techniques.”

Teacher Appreciation Week is the first week of May, which means teachers get five days to savor our appreciation. It’s an opportunity to say (thank you) to those who play a significant role in our lives.

We’re honoring a deserving teacher for May’s Teacher of the Month, Bonnie Capps. A kindergarten teacher at Saint James School, she exemplifies a passion-driven teaching style of empowerming young minds, and provides meaningful connections inside her classroom.

Mrs. Capps’ love for teaching started at a tender age, and she always knew impacting children was a passion deeply rooted in her heart.

She explains, “As a little girl, I loved playing teacher with my dolls and friends. I am a fourthgeneration teacher in my family, so I think it runs in my blood!”

Mrs. Capps earned a Sociology degree from Auburn University and a Master’s degree in Early Childhood Education from Spring Hill College in Mobile. She’s been teaching for eight years and currently teaching in her third year at Saint James. She loves the culture and community there, along with the sense of family, enrichment classes, academics, and great leadership. These

Bonnie Capps has been married to her husband, Matthew, for almost 13 years and has two children, Mary Nell (8) and Charlotte (6), and both attend Saint James.

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This month, young men and women in don caps and gowns will walk proudly across the graduation stage to collect their diplomas, marking the transition from high school to the adult world. In three short months, another cycle will begin as kindergartners show up for their first day of school.

I have witnessed many graduations and, as a former kindergarten teacher, many first days of school. I would like to use this, my final column for River Region Parents, as a farewell to graduates and a welcome to future kindergartners and their parents.

To the Class of 2022

Graduation is a heady time. It can inspire feelings of joy, sadness, fear, relief, and excitement for the future. It is the end of what has no doubt seemed like a very long journey and the beginning of an even longer

River Region Parents I May 2022

one. I’m proud of all our graduates for not giving up even when the obstacles seemed insurmountable.

Some of you might be absolutely certain what you want to do with your life and how you plan to accomplish your goals. For many of you, however, there is probably some uncertainty. There is nothing wrong with that, but it is time to start setting the course you are going to take.

Whether it’s two-year or four-year college, military service, the start of a career or perhaps even some kind of entrepreneurial endeavor, you need to remain active and engaged in order to build a solid foundation for your future. You may try things and fail, and that is OK, too. Failure can be one of your best teachers.

Dream big and take the first steps toward the life you want. And whatever you choose to do, make sure you are doing it with a kind and generous spirit.

to make sure that your child is ready for their first day of school.

One of the best things you can to prepare your child is read to them. In addition, you can involve your child in activities such as writing thank you notes or filling out grocery lists so they become more familiar with reading and writing.

It is also a good idea to prepare your child to be more self-reliant. Let them dress themselves, put on their shoes and put away their own dishes. Slowly help them develop some independence.

Finally, it is important to start setting routines now so they will be ready to start going to school every day. Make sure they are going to bed and waking up around the same time, getting up and getting dressed.

All this will make it much easier for them once they once they walk into a school for the first time and begin their educational journey toward graduation.

For incoming kindergartners

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.

The first day of kindergarten can also be an anxious time, not just for the students but also the parents. There are things you can do

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Montgomery County Schools Saint James School’s Katie Barton Named 4A Coach of the Year

Montgomery Catholic Student Earns Eagle Rank with Wetumpka Troop 13

Saint James School Athletic Director and Varsity Girls Basketball Coach Katie Barton was named by AL.com Alabama Sports Writers Association as Class 4A Coach of the Year.

Coach Barton’s Lady Trojans finished as the 4A AHSAA State Runner Up. On their way to the state championship game, the Trojans defeated Geneva winning the 4A Southeast Regional Tournament and punching their ticket to state. In the Final Four, Coach Barton and her team defeated New Hope in the semi-finals before losing in the championship to Deshler.

Coach Barton has been the head girls basketball coach at Saint James School for the past 21 years. When asked what being named Coach of the Year means to her, she replied, “It is a huge honor to receive this recognition as a coach. There is a lot of time, energy, and passion that goes into the coaching profession. However, I am blessed to coach some pretty amazing athletes who are committed to our mission, program, and school. They deserve so much of the credit. What an incredible season they put together!”

Wetumpka Troop 13 Boy Scout Will Noell, a senior at Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School, has recently achieved Eagle rank. Noell is 18 years old and got his start in Scouting as a founding member of Cub Scout Pack 429 in 2010, chartered at that time by Mulder Church in Wetumpka. While at Pack 429, he earned the Arrow of Light, the highest level of achievement in Cub Scouts.

In 2015, Noell joined Troop 13, where he held a variety of leadership positions through the years, including senior patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, patrol leader and assistant patrol leader. He also completed National Youth Leadership Training and has served as a NYLT staff member for three years, as well as volunteering with Webelos Camp at Tukabatchee three years. In 2017, he was initiated into Order of the Arrow (National Scouting Honor Society), Alibamu Lodge 179.

For his Eagle project, Noell constructed and installed information kiosks on the Swayback Bridge Trail in Wetumpka. These kiosks benefit the River Region Mountain Bike Alliance, the organization that runs the trail, by allowing them to spread information and updates on the trail as well as those that use the trail by providing a place to rest in shade along the trail.

The ACA Awards Macon East Student “Tagged for Greatness” Scholarship

Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate Successful State Tournament The Montgomery Academy Speech & Debate Team traveled to Samford University to compete in the 66th annual State Tournament for Alabama. A total of 41 students from MA competed and as a team captured First Place - Congress, Second Place - Individual Events, and State Runner-Up in the Overall Standings.

Charlie Hill was named Student of the Year. Students who won individual state champion titles were: Senate-Charlie Hill, Junior Varsity Public Forum Debate-Jeb Tucker & Armaan Daryanani, After-Dinner Speaking-Charlie Hill, Duo Interpretation-Tristan Dumas & Jeb Tucker, Prose Interpretation-Sarah Kate Barton.

Nine students will participate in the NSDA National Tournament this June at the first in-person National Tournament in two years in Kentucky.

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The Alabama Cattlemen’s Association recently awarded more than $80,000 to deserving young people from across the state at the 2022 Alabama Cattlemen’s Foundation Scholarship Banquet. McKinnon Hammonds, pictured with his Grandfather - a Lowndes county cattlemen, was awarded one of the “Tagged for Greatness” scholarships. We are very thankful for everything that ACA does for the cattle industry, our communities and students. Congrats McKinnon! www.riverregionparents.com

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Montgomery County Schools Trinity Students Attend All State Band Festival

Four Trinity students, Laura Nabholz, Christopher Kong, Fredrick Brown, and James Brown, attended the 2022 Alabama All State Band Festival in Mobile. Students auditioned in January against students from across the district with the top placing students from across the state of Alabama selected for All State. Students rehearsed and performed with hundreds of students from across the state led by various well known conductors. Placing in All State is a tremendous honor and a grand achievement!

Montgomery Christian School Excited About New Scholarships for Kids Bill Montgomery Christian School students will benefit greatly from a new law signed by Governor Ivey this past week. Senate Bill SB261 will allow donors in Alabama to give 100% of their state tax liability to Scholarships for Kids and other scholarship granting organizations. This also increases the capped giving amount to $100,000 per taxpayer. With this change, we encourage you to redirect your tax liability soon as we hope the $30 million cap will be reached sooner in 2022. This redirection works as an Alabama state tax credit.

This exciting change could be beneficial to so many more students in the Montgomery area. Providing scholarships for students who otherwise could not afford school choice is an amazing opportunity given through Scholarship for Kids and other agencies. MCS currently has more than half of its students on Scholarship for Kids, and because of this Scholarship Granting Organization, many of our fifth graders will leave MCS and be able to continue with Scholarship for Kids at another successful institution. Contact Montgomery Christian School at 334-386-1749 for more information on how you could help more students in the area receive a high quality education.

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Chris M. Hagen, MBA LPL Financial Advisor chris.hagen@lpl.com www.riverregionparents.com

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BrewTech Brings Home Awards, Recognitions From State TSA Conference Brewbaker Technology Magnet High students were back in action this year with TSA, with 14 BrewTech students attending the 42nd Annual Alabama TSA Conference.

Held at the Renaissance Center in downtown Montgomery, this was the first in-person Alabama TSA Conference in over two years, and BrewTech did a great job competing in it. There were over 500 students from around the state of Alabama in attendance.

Below are the many awards and recognitions BrewTech students received.

TSA Honor Society inductees - Emma Rountree, Madison Morgan and Parker Schell. Zoe Preston was awarded fourth place in Digital Video Production and fourth place in Forensic Science. VEX Robotics Team 4828-E with Bradyn Stallworth, Brady Tolerson and Brooks Tolerson won second place in the VEX Robotics competition.

VEX Robotics Team 4828-C with Chase Jones and Kameron Davis, came in 6th place in the VEX Robotics competition. VEX Robotics Team 4828-A with Jaydon Ngugen and Kaden Davis came in 10th place in the VEX Robotics competition. Travis Karvwnaris served as the head VEX Robotics referee and Mason Hatch served as assistant referee for the VEX Robotics Competition. Mason Hatch was elected Alabama TSA’s Sergeant at Arms for the 20222023 school year. Bradyn Stallworth was elected Alabama TSA’s Treasurer for the 2022-2023 school year. Robert Parker was the 20212022 Alabama TSA State President and did an outstanding job representing BrewTech.

Macon East Students Compete in Choral Festival Macon East Academy 4th-6th grade students recently went to Eastern Hills Baptist Church and competed in the AISA Elementary Choral Festival. After completing, students were treated to Krispy Kreme donuts, where they performed for the staff and patrons inside.

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Montgomery County Schools LAMP Wins Seven Sets of Medals at Science Olympiad in Auburn

Carver High School Speech and Debate Team Headed to Nationals

LAMP High students won a total of seven sets of medals at the Science Olympiad state competition in Auburn.

The medals: First Place in Write It Do It; Second Place in Anatomy and Physiology, Dynamic Planet, Green Generation, and Ping pong Parachute; and Third Place in Gravity Vehicle and Experimental Design.

The students: Sumin Park, Kangyou Park, Jamie Lo, Grace Liu, Hannah Lee, Rhea Rastogi, Prachi Patel, Saad Khan, Yeachan Park, Ellison Torode, Aryan Singh, Reena Chen, and Grace Park.

Not pictured: Anmol Guard and Grace Chung.

George Washington Carver Senior High School started a Speech and Debate program and competed in online tournaments across the country, competed in their first Mockingbird District State Tournament at Samford University, and are going to Nationals in Louisville, Kentucky. This is a great accomplishment for the team; their program is new and thriving.

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MA Students Participate in Junior Youth Legislature Montgomery Academy seventh grade students recently participated in the YMCA Junior Youth Legislature at the Capitol Auditorium. While there, they created their own bills and participated in parliamentary procedure against other schools. This experience allowed them to practice writing, researching, and debate skills while also learning about their state government. While there, a number of Montgomery Academy students were recognized for their work, including Morgan Springer and Lillian Cameron (both Outstanding Statesmen, and Chaplain & Clerk, respectively), and Rhianna Carstarphen (Most Outstanding Statesman).

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Saint James School 8th Grader Places in ACES Art Show Saint James 8th grader Keira Thompson won 2nd place at the ACES art show (Artistic Competition for Exceptional Students). The show was held from February 21-March 18.

This event was held at the Montgomery Cultural Arts Center (formerly the Armory Arts Learning Center).

Any students who attend school, live, or take art lessons in Montgomery, Autauga, and Elmore counties can compete in this art show. Keira’s teacher is Mrs. Bethany Davis who teaches middle school art classes at Saint James.

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Montgomery County Schools Montgomery Academy Students Inducted Into National English Honor Society Thirty-five students received membership into The Montgomery Academy’s Robin Goodfellow Chapter of the National English Honor Society.

Students must have earned a cumulative average of 93 in all of their English course work, starting in 9th Grade, to receive membership.

Juniors inducted this year are Jane Abbie Alford, Greer Armstrong, Katie Brown, Jenna Chandler, Fionah Desautels, Norah Desautels, Forrest Dockery, Claire Gary, Allie Fitzpatrick, Holden Habermacher, Kenny Heumann, Charlie Hill, Hayes Jenkins, Ted Lee, Campbell Long, Claire Moore, Isabella Navidad, John Poundstone, Elizabeth Ray, Emory Roth, Parker Shegon, Katherine Sinco, Kareena Singh, Carson Springer, Laura Stanton Strickler, and Brett Westhauser.

New senior members are Phipps Fiore, Anna Elizabeth Floyd, Elle Hughes, MaryLee Kelso, Judson Lindsey, Virginia Meacham, Parker Roth, Clara Ryan and Chelsea Trimble.

Many thanks to the chapter’s leadership for planning and conducting this year’s induction: Mary Evelyn McLemore, President; Sarah Kate Barton, Vice President; Haley Cox, Secretary/Treasurer; Sadie Sease, Social Events Chair; and English Department Chair, Mr. Scott Richburg.

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Talent Education & Arts Christian Academy, Inc. End of The Year Assessments Now that school has almost come to an end, many assessments will be conducted, and should measure a full range of students’ individual abilities which includes social, emotional, and academic achievement. Various effective assessments will include portfolios, presentations, benchmarking, and tests.

The staff at T.E.A. Academy, Inc., has stayed on top of the education game by implementing IXLsoftware and Khan Academy into their daily curriculum, and is being utilized for some assessment tools; which has also assisted the students with continuing to be excited about learning. In an effort to build on Social and Emotional Learning, students engage in debates from topics they have researched. Without a doubt, when students work together as teams they learn to collaborate, communicate, and resolve conflicts; while elevating one another.

T.E.A. Academy, Inc. is committed to nurture, challenge, empower and inspire our students to grow to their fullest extent; while preparing them for the next grade level and beyond.

Send Your School News to: editor@river regionparents.com.

Trinity K3 Enjoys Easter Fun Trinity’s K3 class enjoyed a day full of yummy food, games and an Easter egg hunt!

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Montgomery Catholic Senior Receives Honors Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School senior Will Noell was selected as the Bryant Jordan 3A Region 3 ScholarAthlete scholarship recipient.

This award is given to a student athlete who plays an important role in the interscholastic athletic program of the school, as well as maintaining the highest standards of academic performance.

Will has also recently earned the rank of Eagle Scout as a member of Troop 13 in Wetumpka. For his Eagle Scout project, Will constructed information kiosks along Wetumpka’s Swayback Bridge Trail.

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Montgomery County Schools Advisory Groups Hunt Easter Eggs with Trinity Second Graders

Saint James School’s Jimmy Perry Inducted Into Alabama High School Sports Hall of Fame

Easter egg hunts aren’t just for the little Wildcats at Trinity School! Mrs. Rowe and Mrs. Satcher’s advisory groups had an Easter egg hunt of their own with the second graders on the playground! Just another benefit of one campus at Trinity!

On Monday, March 22, 2022, Saint James School Head Football Coach Jimmy Perry was inducted into the Alabama High School Sports Hall of Fame. As the winningest coach in Saint James school history, Coach Perry has made an impact at Saint James School, as well as the schools where he coached prior to Saint James. Coach Perry was one of 12 Inductees honored at the Renaissance Hotel and Spa Convention Center.

Coach Perry began his career at Trinity School in 1979, then his next coaching job was at Robert E. Lee High School. After the 1999 season, Perry left Lee to join the Auburn University staff of Tommy Tuberville. He served as director of NFL relations, then as director of football operations. In 2008, Coach Perry returned to high school coaching as head coach at St. Paul’s Episcopal School in Mobile, Alabama. He then began his years at Saint James in 2012. Ten years later, he has made his mark on Saint James history!

While at Saint James, Coach Perry has led his team to the football state playoffs 9 times during his 10 years. He holds an impressive record over his 40+ year coaching career.

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FIND YOUR FUN. FIND YOUR Y. Day and Overnight Summer Camp Options

At Y summer camp, your kids will make new friends and have tons of fun as they explore new adventures each day.

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Camp Grandview, Camp Chandler, and Summer Goodtimes Day Camp

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Montgomery Catholic Students Attend InspirHER Program

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Three Montgomery Catholic eighth graders, Ava Crimi, Ellis O’Connor, and Anna Russo, attended Auburn University’s InspirHER program offered to prospective Middle school students interested in Auburn University’s Engineering program. The event offered students the opportunity to learn more about engineering and to see how Auburn’s female alumni, faculty, and students are inspiring the next generation of engineers.

Students were able to learn about the 12 different areas of engineering and listen to a presentation from Dr. Kathy Thornton, a Montgomery native, Auburn University graduate, and NASA astronaut. Crimi, O’Connor, and Russo were also able to meet MCPS alumna, Isabelle Cochran (Class of 2019).

Cochran is a Software Engineering major and the President of the Society of Women Engineers at Auburn University.

Photo by: Allison Russo

BTW Students Make Presence Known in DOOT Competition A number of Booker T. Washington Magnet High Visual Arts and Photography students placed in the DOOT (Doing Our Own Thing) Art Competition sponsored by The Arts Council of Montgomery. Below are the students and their awards.

Best in Show - Hannah Johnson (BTW Photo) Black & White Photography 1st Place – Aleena Andersen (BTW Photo) 2nd Place – Zion Easterling (BTW Photo), 3rd Place – S Mackenzie Donaldson (BTW Photo), HM – Hannah Johnson (BTW Photo) Color Drawing: 2nd Place Suraj Patel (BTW VA) Graphic Design: 3rd Place – J. Amir Robinson (BTW Photo) Color Photography: 1st Place – Kaylee Carter (BTW Photo)

2nd Place – Desiree Senn (BTW Photo), 3rd Place – Madison Taite (BTW Photo), Painting: 1st Place – Ashley Mendez-Luna (BTW VA), 2nd Place – Anterricka Piner (BTW VA), 3rd Place – Christa Murray (BTW VA), HM – Christa Murray (BTW VA), Printmaking: 1st Place – Naeun Nania Kim (BTW VA), 2nd Place – Amaya Utsahagarn (BTW VA), 3rd Place – Ada Withers (BTW VA), HM – Isabella Dennison (BTW VA).

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Montgomery County Schools Trinity Students Holds Induction Ceremonies

BTW Strings and Band Students Participate in Master Class Booker T. Washington Magnet High Strings and Band students had a unique opportunity when they participated in a masterclass with Maestro Jamie Reeves.

Reeves is the Director of Orchestral Studies at the University of Alabama. He has taken part in many international conducting masterclasses and competitions and has conducted orchestras all over the world.

BTW Band Instructor Curtis Hollinger and Strings Instructor Shoronda Charles organized the masterclass.

Trinity held the Arts Honor Societies Induction and Cording Ceremony. Students were inducted into the National Honor Society for Dance Arts, Tri-M Music Honor Society, and the National Art Honor Society. Senior members of these prestigious organizations received cords to be worn at graduation. Congratulations to these students!

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ECA’s Kindergarten Class Enjoys Easter Evangel Christian Academy’s elementary students enjoyed celebrating Easter. After learning about the Easter Story from the Bible, the students celebrated with an Easter party.

Even though the weather did not cooperate, the classes anxiously waited as their “Big Buddies” from ECA’s Senior Class hid plastic eggs filled with surprises in the school’s gym.

Eastwood Student Wins Handwriting Competition Eastwood Christian School is pleased to congratulate Jesse Beaver who has been named as a State Grade-Level Winner in the Zaner-Bloser handwriting competition. The Zaner-Bloser competition promotes legible handwriting and helps develop literacy skills.

As a State Grade-Level Winner. Jesse is in second grade and is eligible to compete for a Grand National Champion title.

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LAMP High Speech and Debate Team Wins Big The LAMP High Speech and Debate Team had a great state tournament at Samford University. The team came away with an overall third-place finish and Coach Jordan Berry was recognized as the Lois A. Askew Coach of the Year. The team also had two state champions, Kileigh Dickinson and Rhea Rastogi.

Kileigh was named the state champion in the Congressional Debate category after finishing first overall. Rhea placed as the 2nd Overall Speaker in Junior Varsity Lincoln Douglas but was able to finish as state champion for the second year in a row.

Also in the Congressional Debate category, Yash Param and Andrew Gay were State Finalists in Novice Senate, finishing fourth and third respectively. LAMP finished third overall in Congress Team Sweepstakes.

In the Speech category, State Finalists included Sydney An (6th overall in Impromptu) and Ruel Lee (6th overall in Original Oratory), with Anmol Guard finishing as State Runner-Up in Original Oratory.

In the Debate category, there were several State Finalists. In Novice Public Forum, the team of Prachi Patel and Sydney An made it to the quarterfinals, and the team of Nikhil Pochana and Kileigh Dickinson advanced to the semifinals. In Novice Lincoln Douglas, Anish Boyella advanced to the semifinals. In Big Questions, Andrew Gay finished as the 2nd Overall Speaker and made it to the quarterfinals. Isaac Uhm finished as the 1st Overall Speaker and advanced to the semifinals.

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Saint James Athletes Chosen For All-State Two Saint James athletes were chosen by AL.com Alabama Sports Writers Association as part of the 2022 Class 4A All-State Basketball Teams.

Senior Bradley Thomas was chosen as part of the boys basketball All-State Second Team. Bradley helped lead the Trojans to the Final Four for the first time in school history. Bradley was responsible for 22 points in the team’s win over BTW in the Regional Final.

Sophomore Ava Card was tapped as part of the girls basketball All-State Second Team.

Ava helped her team make it to the Final Four, where she and her team defeated New Hope in the semi-finals before losing in the championship to Deshler.

Ava was responsible for the game winning shot in the defeat of New Hope.

MPS Students Named Semifinalists for Scholars Program Two MPS students have been named semifinalists for the U.S. Presidential Scholars Program.

Hailey Mullins is a senior at Brewbaker Technology Magnet High, and J. Amir Robinson is a senior at Booker T. Washington Magnet High. Hailey and Amir are among 14 semifinalists in Alabama and are the only ones in the River Region.

They are among 620 semifinalists nationwide from a pool of about 5,000 candidates.

The U.S. Secretary of Education, Dr. Miguel Cardona, will announce the final selection of 2022 U.S. Presidential Scholars in mid-May.

GOD HAS A PLAN AND A PURPOSE FOR ME

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

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

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

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Montgomery County Schools MA’s Nigel Walker Signs with Morgan State Bears

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Nigel Walker is headed to Morgan State University to join the Bears football program.

A signing ceremony was held to celebrate Nigel and his accomplishments on and off the football field.

Talent, Education and Arts (TEA) Christian Academy has a continuous improvement program that includes Mentoring workshops. Students receive monthly mentoring from leaders in the community who motivate, inspire, and offer guidance that empower them to be their best.

B.J. McCullough shared information that was enlightening and extremely beneficial to the students’ success. He started by reciting a poem he wrote (Teach Me as I Grow) and encouraged the students to “Lead with their shield”.

The shield is that goal you want to attain, so keep it in front of you at all times. Mr. McCullough further empowered the students to have a good attitude and look for ways to turn something negative into a positive.

Finally, McCullough offered these suggestions: Take full advantage of your education and read or listen to positive quotes or affirmations daily to help build character - doing these things will ultimately lead to success.

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

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Montgomery Catholic Students Attend Youth Legislature Conference Thirteen Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School students attended the 74th annual YMCA Alabama Youth Legislature Conference, where they joined high school students from various counties in Downtown Montgomery to learn about the democratic process and step into the roles of legislators.

Montgomery Catholic delegates included Julienne Pharrams, Zach Izer, Maynard Marlow, Maggie Stewart, Esa Gancayco, Aidan Blum, Anna Lathram, Bebe Neeley, Haylei Mason, Isabella Shin, Maria Schwarz, Virginia Driver, and Zion Williams.

Throughout the three day conference, delegates debated bills in First Year, House, and Senate chambers. Out of all participating Alabama delegates, the top 20 are selected to attend the Conference on National Affairs. Montgomery Catholic seniors Zach Izer and Julienne Pharrams were both selected.

Additionally, both Zach and Julienne’s bills passed through the House and Senate of the Conference and were signed into “law.”

Zach Izer was also nominated and chosen to be the recipient of the Bill Barringer Scholarship award.

This $500 monetary scholarship goes to a college-bound senior with a minimum three-year involvement in the Youth Legislature program, who exhibits exemplary Christian character, extensive behind the scenes work regardless of recognition, great dedication to the program, an attitude of encouragement and enthusiasm and who has gained respect of peers and adults. (Photo by Haley Hart)

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Registration Now Open for Spring and Summer ACT Test Prep Join us to prepare for the 2022 ACT exam and improve your test scores! Learn ways to decrease test anxiety, timing and more.

Register for the Complete Review or focus on specific areas where you need to strengthen your score.

Increase your skills with the Reading/Language, Science, and Math sections of the exam.

Class Structure: Classes meet Mondays through Thursdays from 6:00-8:00 p.m.

These sessions are taught in-person only and prices vary by subject.

Location: 75 TechnaCenter Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Contact the AUM Continuing Education & Community Engagement at (334) 244-3804 or visit them at www.aum.edu/continuing education.

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Montgomery County Schools Saint James School Chorus and Marching Band Perform at Festival Disney The Saint James High School Choir and Marching Band competed in the Walt Disney World’s Festival Disney Competition during April 1-2, 2022. Students from Dr. Sallye York’s High School Choir and Mr. Andy Martin’s Marching Trojans earned high marks and praise for their talents.

The choir received Superior Ratings, won Best in Class in our Division, and won the Silver Award for Concert Choirs. The choir performed “Indodana” arranged by Michael Barrett, “Like a River in My Soul” arranged by Tim Osiek, and “The Storm is Passing Over” arranged by Barbara Baker. They were accompanied on piano by Dr. Sallye York.

The March Band also had a fantastic trip and had a wonderful performance at Festival Disney in front of world-renowned educators and adjudicators. The band received excellent feedback from the judges. The band was also able to participate in a clinic with Professor Emeritus Joseph Hermann from Tennessee Tech University.

While at Disney World the students enjoyed time in the theme parks.

Montgomery Academy Chorus Earns “Excellent” Rating The Montgomery Academy Lower School Chorus received an “Excellent” rating at the Southern Star Music Festival in Atlanta. The students also enjoyed many Atlanta attractions over the weekend: College Football Hall of Fame, World of Coke, and Six Flags.

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Montgomery Catholic Students Debate City Ordinances with Success

Gifted Student at Dalraida Elementary Chosen by Mystery Science Company

On April 13th, Montgomery’s Downtown Optimist Club, in cooperation with the Britton YMCA, sponsored Youth in City as a part of Optimist International Youth Appreciation Week. Students in grades 7-12 from all over the city gathered at Montgomery City Hall for a day to debate the city ordinances they prepared.

This year, 42 Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School 7th and 8th grade students participated by writing, proposing, and defending their city ordinances. 14 of the 23 approved ordinances for debate were written by Montgomery Catholic students, and all but two of our ordinances that were debated passed into ‘law’. (Photo by Laura Reilly)

Joycelan Bailey, 3rd grade QUEST student, submitted her question to the online Mystery Science Company, and they chose her question to create their weekly video that is watched by kids all over the world. She submitted the question, Why are coral reefs so colorful? Mystery Science is an online educational resource that inspires kids to love science! Each activity video contains a central mystery, discussion questions, and hands-on activities for students. Way to go Joycelan! Keep inquiring about what you have an interest in.

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Carver High Speech and Debate Coach Named New Coach of the Year Big things are happening with the new Carver High Speech and Debate team. Its coach, Mrs. Rockette-Rogers, has been named the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA) Mockingbird District’s New Coach of the Year, and the team has received an invitation to Nationals in Louisville, Ky. Mrs. Rockette-Rogers started the program from scratch and has a dedicated group of hard-working students.

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H Macon East JV Baseball Wins Tournament Macon East Junior Varsity baseball team wins the Lowndes Tournament!

Matthew Pugh was se-lected for the Most Valuable Player and Thaddeus McKinney was selected to the all-tournament team. Macon East JV is coached by Chandler Lunn and Davis Lamb. Way to go guys!

Pike Road High Soccer Players Inducted Into Mu Alpha Theta Congratulations to our soccer players who are members or new inductees of Mu Alpha Theta!

Here they are pictured at the Mu Alpha Theta Induction Ceremony.

(Front row: Catalina Quimby, Hannah DeBoer, Lily Shores, Kasey Reybitz. Back row: George Coley, Delaney Hawthorne, Edie Walters, Ben DeBoer. Also in attendance, but not pictured: Trey Longnecker, Preston Macrory, Arianna Lega.)

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Pike Road Intermediate Students Serve Alabama House of Representatives C6 learner, Kennedy Cuthbert, and C4 learner, William Cuthbert, were each selected to serve as a Legislative Page for the Alabama House of Representatives on March 29th-31st.

The duties of a page consist of “assisting the Members of the House and/or Senate, and certain staff members, by performing errands on the floor of each house and during committee meetings. These errands usually include obtaining copies of bills, resolutions, amendments, substitutes and other official documents, as well as delivering messages to and from Members. Therefore, Pages are provided the rare privilege to work on the floor of the House or Senate, in the midst of legislative action.” They not only served as Pages, Kennedy and William led the House of Representatives in the Pledge of Allegiance on Tuesday! PRS is SO proud and honored to have these bright learners part of the Patriot family!

Air Play

by Acrobuffos Friday, May 13 ³ 7:30 p.m.

Pike Road C5 Learners Create Matter Board Games C5 learners completed a 9-week long unit on Matter. As an extension project, and to show all that they have learned, some learners made Matter Board Games that centered around the concepts and vocabulary from the unit. Check out their creative projects!

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Pike Road Students Dress as Famous Alabamians

C4 learners researched information about famous Alabamians.

They dressed up as the person they chose, wrote a speech, and presented their chosen famous Alabamian in a wax museum! They not only learned about their famous Alabamian, they were able to teach others who visited the wax museum.

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Poarch Band of Creek Indians Award Scholarship to Macon East Student The Poarch Band of Creek Indians has a proud history of supporting youth in livestock. Each year during SLE Livestock Week, young people from each of Alabama’s 67 counties are awarded scholarships from the Tribe to aid in future participation of youth livestock events or further education.

Pictured with Macon East Academy student, Matthew Pugh, are L-R: PBCI Tribal Council Member Keith Martin; SLE President Randy Davis; and Commissioner of Agriculture & Industries Rick Pate.

Pike Road School 6th Graders Visit STARBASE C6 students learned about endothermic and exothermic reaction, buoyancy density, coding, and robotics on their field trip to STARBASE Maxwell.

This field trip consisted of a 5-day span. Each day, when the learners attended STARBASE, they were able to expand their knowledge and make new discoveries.

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Macon East Senior Commits to Talladega College

Pike Road 5th Grader Wins Essay Contest Congratulations to C5 learner, Annsleigh Ingram, on winning the STATE level essay contest for “What My Mother Means to Me”!

Annsleigh will now enter her essay in the National 5th Grade Essay Contest. Outstanding job, Annsleigh!

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Macon East Academy senior basketball star, Maurice Poole committed to Talladega College Tornadoes to continue his basketball career.

Pike Road Congratulates Three on Jimmy Hitchcock Nomination Congratulations to our 3 Jimmy Hitchcock Award nominees: Ella “Gracie” Branham (basketball/volleyball), Benjamin DeBoer (soccer), and Larry “Jack” Fuhrman (wrestling/football). Each year the respective coaches of each athletic squad of the Senior High Schools of Montgomery County nominate the athlete who has displayed the most outstanding qualities of Christian Leadership in that sport.

We are proud to have these athletes a part of our Patriot family! Go Patriots!

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Pike Road High Girls Soccer Team Enjoys Saturday Service We are proud of our Varsity Girls soccer team for spending a recent Saturday morning giving back and serving in our community at the Woodland UMC Food Pantry!

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Autauga County Schools Prattville Primary Celebrates Student Reading Goals Prattville Primary is so proud of its student for reaching their reading goals for the 3rd nine weeks. They all celebrated with a slushy party.

PCA Lady Panthers Clench Second State Basketball Championship and Player of the Year Title The Lady Panthers finished their regular season with a near-perfect record of 36 wins and just one loss! This incredible performance set them up to sweep the regional matchups by defeating Pike County and Trinity Presbyterian. From here, they faced off against Plainview in the state semifinals, claiming their position in the championship game with a conquering score of 53-36.

Senior point guard Ella Jane Connell, who totaled thirty-nine points during the game, clinched victory as she scored the winning three points. Once again, the Lady Panthers claimed the state championship title, with a winning score of 72-69 to record a back-to-back championship standing—a first in PCA history!

Senior Ella Jane Connell and junior Hannah Jones were named to the All-Tournament team following the game, and Ella Jane was recently crowned 3A’s Basketball Player of the Year for the second consecutive year! She has shattered all previous program records during her varsity career, and it’s only fitting that she wraps up her senior year with this prestigious award. According to Coach Roberson, “she is everything that is right and pure when it comes to team sports! She cares about her teammates’ success more than her own.”

Congratulations to our Lady Panthers for their well-deserved victory and historic season. We can’t wait to see what’s next for this program!

Pine Level Kindergarteners Make Easter Egg Collages

ASMS Prattville Senior Wins at Regional Science Fair and Named National Merit Finalist

These Pine Level students in Mrs. Thomas’ Kindergarten Class enjoyed making Easter Egg Collages.

They were tasked with being creative and using color to form an Easter Egg out of pieces of color construction paper!

There was great victory for ASMS student Elbread Roh at the recent Regional Science and Engineering Fair, winning Best in Show. Roh was also named National Merit Finalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC). These students are in the top 1% of high school seniors in the nation.

Pine Level Pre-K Student Honored Before Move to Belgium One of our Pine Level Pre-K students was moving to Belgium due to being in the military. The extent of this move was not lost on us, so we taught them all we could about Belgium. We made a passport, packed a bag, and took a virtual field trip/flight across the ocean.

The students had so much fun spending the last day with their friend on an “airplane” high in the sky!

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Military Month at Pine Level Elementary

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In April at Pine Level Elementary School, we recognized all of our students whose parents serve in the United State Military or are Retired or Veterans. We are so grateful for the individuals and their families that sacrifice to serve our great Country.

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Send Your School News by the 15th to: editor@ riverregionparents.com.

PCA’s Tennis Team Growing in Interest and Wins PCA’s three tennis teams are off to a fantastic start this year! On the 7th of February, PCA’s JV girls’ tennis team swept their first match against Alabama Christian Academy, with the Doubles teams winning 4-0 and the Single players winning 6-0. The Varsity Girls and Boys teams also had their first meet just a week later when they competed against Prattville High School. The Varsity Girls won 8-1, and while the Varsity Boys fought hard, they lost 0-6.

However, with this being the first year PCA has had both a JV girls’ and Varsity Boys tennis team, there is a lot of promise for the future. Coach Cantrell and Coach Brad Lee decided to build the program after noticing the immense popularity for the sport in try-outs, with 21 girls and four boys coming out. According to Coach Cantrell, the head coach of the team for the past four years, “This is the most interest we’ve had in tennis for sure! I am really excited about the JV girls tennis team. I think it is really going to help to continue to develop the girls tennis program.”

The players are certainly excited for this season. Sophomore Gracie Fuller, a Varsity player of three years, said, “I think this season is going to be very good to grow so that next year we can possibly go to state!” She continues to remark on the close relationships she holds with her teammates, saying that everyone is “sweet and supportive.”

Please come out and show your support to these teams as they continue to compete throughout the spring semester. Go Panthers!

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Autauga County Schools Dedicated PCA Gymnasts Shine PCA students are always up to something! Even outside of school, students dedicate their time and energy to activities they are passionate about, and one of those for three particular students is gymnastics. Sixth-grader Olivia Rossi, sophomore Sarah Birchmeier, and senior Alyssa Birchmeier (pictured) spend hours at the gym, working hard for the spring competition season.

On weekdays, the gymnasts work out for about four hours at the Don M. Smith Prattville YMCA Branch, conditioning and practicing skills in the events vault, bars, beam, and floor. Even on Saturday mornings, when most students are sleeping in, the girls are up bright and early to continue their work.

Alyssa Birchmeier, who competes in level 8, states that the best part of gymnastics is “the time that I get to spend with my teammates and coaches because, through all of the good and bad that comes with the sport, I have developed some of my closest relationships. It is through these that I look forward to showing up at practice each day.”

Billingsley Names Prom King and Queen

Billingsley Teacher’s Grant to Fund Reading Fair Billingsley School teacher Tralise Howard received a grant in the amount of $1200 from the Autauga Education Foundation. The grant will be used to fund a reading fair at the school.

The reading fair contest is for students in grades Kindergarten through sixth grade. Winners will receive gift cards to Books-a-Million.

The fair is scheduled for May 5.

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Prattville Student Nominated for Volunteer of the Year Prattville Intermediate School student Aurelia Ruffin was nominated during River Region’s 48th Annual Volunteer of the Year Awards.

Matthew Shanholtzer and Macee Motley were named Billingsley School’s Prom King and Queen 2022. Prom King and Queen are selected by seniors in attendance. Prom was held on April 9 at the Wyatt Barn At The Crossroads in Clanton, Alabama.

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Billingsley Senior Selected Bryant Jordan Scholar-Athlete Jackson Manning, a senior at Billingsley School, was selected as the class 1A Region 4 Bryant-Jordan ScholarAthlete. The program recognizes Alabama high school seniors who display a high level of excellence not only athletically but academically as well. Manning was recognized during the Bryant-Jordan Student-Athlete Awards ceremony that was held in Birmingham on April 11.

Prattville Intermediate School hosted its inaugural luncheon for military families, and it was an enormous success.

Vocabulary Parade for 4th Graders

Prattville Elementary School 4th graders participated in a vocabulary parade. We got the idea from the book Miss Alaineus, A Vocabulary Disaster.

Send School News to: editor@ riverregionparents.com.

River Region Parents I May 2022

Prattville Intermediate Hosts Luncheon for Military

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Pine Level Kindergarteners Work Hard at Making Words Pine Level students in Ms. Smith’s kindergarten class have been working hard on making words. Students were given a pack of alphabet cookies and asked to sort through the letters and make a CVC word. This student made the word MOM!

Prattville Primary Teachers Receive Grants Congratulations to Mrs. Taylor at Prattville Primary School. She received a grant from the Autauga Education Foundation and Quincy Minor at Uniti Fiber for SMART panel.

Mrs. Langham’s class also received a grant for new laptops. Both of these contributions will enhance the learning opportunities for our young leaders.

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Autauga County Schools Airport Road Heads to Robotics World Championship The Airport Road Intermediate School Robotics Team has qualified to attend The Robotics World Championship, which will take place in Dallas, TX this May. We are excited about this opportunity and could not have done it without the help of our wonderful teachers/sponsors: Amber Blankenship, Sydni Edwards, and Amanda Main! Airport Road is under the direction of Marcia Stephens, Principal. Best of Luck to our amazing Robotics Team!

The Wizard of Oz Took Center Stage at PCA’s 6th Annual Benefit

PCA’s Drama Club, and a mix of other talented students, transported the benefit audience to the Merry Old Land of Oz in late February. The benefit dinner play, based on the movie Wizard of Oz, was a success among audience members young and old. Katie Furr, PCA’s Head of School, commented, “The amount of energy and effort that goes into our plays each year is amazing. The cast and crew did an incredible job of shining throughout this performance. Everything from the costumes to the set, to the acting, was truly first class.” The play truly does take a great amount of effort to pull off each year, and the product is a wonderful performance.

SUMMER DAY CAMP! Prattville YMCA Register today!

• 3 sites to choose from • Meal plan available • Fun field trips each week!

We also offer Camp 2:22 for Teens

& Camp Able for kids with special needs.

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We are currently in the process of developing our 2022-2026 Strategic Plan. A committee of students, teachers, parents, school administrators, board members, county commissioners, and community representatives has already begun its work.

The process involves reviewing the district’s mission/purpose statement, “Every Student Empowered ~ Every Student Succeeds,” as well as our existing goals, objectives, and strategies with emphasis on what we know about how students learn and what those learning experiences should include. The committee is focusing on four major areas related to student learning: culture, leadership, engagement, and growth. We recognize that we must endeavor to meet the needs of the whole child before they can experience academic success. The committee has the challenging task of identifying specific goals

and strategies to foster student success. I am confident in this committee of stakeholders who continues to give their time and share their input to help us maximize our capacity for student and adult learning.

The end of the school year is a month away. Our students are preparing for a strong finish academically as well as enjoying spring sports and planning for the next school year.

State-required spring assessments are completed for students in grades 3-8. These students will also take STAR Reading and STAR Math assessments before the year ends.

Assessment results help us identify specific areas(s) in which each child needs additional support as well as any curriculum standards that need additional focus in our classrooms.

The data also helps us plan professional development activities during the summer and over the course of the school year. The ultimate goal of this work is to maximize our students’ ability to achieve academic success, thus preparing them for success in school and in life.

Spring sports are in full swing with a soccer, softball, and/or baseball game be-

ing played around the district several days each week. Track and basketball have just finished their seasons, and football spring practice is already underway. Cheerleading tryouts for the 2022-2023 school year have been completed in all four communities, and squads are already preparing for conditioning, practices, and summer camps. Our high schools have recently held their junior-senior proms, a highlight of the year for our oldest students. Finally, high school graduation ceremonies are just over a month away and signal the successful completion of a 13-year long career in public education.

Finally, we are already busy planning for the 2022-2023 school year. From staffing to curriculum and professional development, we constantly strive for “Every student empowered ~ every student succeeds!”

Richard Dennis is the Superintendent of Education for Elmore County Schools. He is a 1983 graduate of Holtville High School. He served 21 years as a high school principal at Holtville High, Wetumpka High and most recently, Prattville High. He and wife, Leslie (also an educator) have three sons and a daughter.

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Elmore County Schools Holtville High Senior Finalist for Military Child of the Year

April is the month of the military child, recognizing and thanking those who are children of servicemembers and veterans. At Holtville High School we showed our gratitude to these awesome children by hosting a “Military Child Day” where everyone was encouraged to wear purple in support, and we also hosted a luncheon for students whose parents are active members of the United States military.

While we recognized all the students, one special young lady stands out and she has been selected as a finalist for the Operation Homefront “Military Child of the Year.” Operation Homefront is a national not-for-profit entity, and they “Build strong, stable, and secure military families so they can thrive—not simply struggle to get by—in the communities that they’ve worked so hard to protect.”

Brae Lee Morris, a Senior at Holtville High, was chosen out of thousands of students across the nation and was the only student selected to represent Alabama. Brae Lee is the daughter of Air National Guard O5 Lieutenant Colonel Leeann Chavers. Brae Lee is very active at Holtville and goes above and beyond every day. She is the Editor of The Lakusa Yearbook, Student Government President, Senior Class Vice President, she is also active in Junior Civitan, Mu Alpha Theta, Beta Club, National Honor Society, and DECA. We are so proud of you Brae Lee and we wish you all the best while you continue your education at the University of Alabama!

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Applications for The Edge Accepted This Month The Edge will start accepting applications in May 2022 for the 2022-2023 school year.

The Edge is a virtual, Cognia Accredited, public school in Elmore County. The Edge is open to all students K-12 in Alabama. Please see our website for the application as well as FAQ and more information. We are excited to be adopting a new platform for grades K-5 for the 2022-2023 school year. Please visit this website and click on “Explore Our Courses” to see sample Flexpoint lessons: https:// www.flvsglobal.net/school-and-district-solutions/. For grades 6-12, we will continue to use Edgenuity. The Edge Website: https:// theedgeelmoreal.schoolinsites.com/ The Edge Phone Number: 334-514-3931

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Elmore County Schools Wetumpka High Senior Earns Eagle Scout Rank

EWA-C3 Industry Tour

Wetumpka High School senior Richie Bailey, a member of Boy Scout Troop 13 chartered by First Presbyterian Church of Wetumpka, has recently achieved Eagle rank. Bailey is 18 years old and got his start in Scouting as a founding member of Cub Scout Pack 429 in 2010, chartered at that time by Mulder Church in Wetumpka. While at Pack 429, he earned the God and Me and God and Family religious awards, as well as the Arrow of Light, the highest level of achievement in Cub Scouts.

In 2015, Bailey joined Troop 13, where he held a variety of leadership positions through the years, including senior patrol leader, assistant senior patrol leader, patrol leader and quartermaster. He has also served as a den chief for Cub Scout Pack 50 in Wetumpka. In 2017, Bailey completed his Order of the Arrow (National Scouting Honor Society) Ordeal with Alibamu Lodge 179 and became a Brotherhood member in 2021. In 2018 he completed National Youth Leadership Training and this past summer served as a camp staff member at Tukabatchee. At the end of 2021, Bailey received the prestigious Bryan Valliere Scout of the Year award from Troop 13.

As an active member of Trinity Episcopal Church in Wetumpka, Bailey chose a landscaping project that he hoped would help the church attract a new priest, since Trinity’s former priest had retired and the church was actively recruiting new clergy.

Representatives from Elmore County Schools participated in industry tours through Central AlabamaWorks during March where they visited Hyundai MOBIS, STERIS, and Premier Tech. While touring Premier Tech, they met with a former ECTC student, Trey Gober (Holtville High 2019 graduate), in the Electrical program who is on their engineering design team.

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Student from The Edge Selected for Space Academy One of our very own students from The Edge, Sydney Biernesser, was selected to attend Space Academy for Leading Students in Alabama at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center! Congratulations Sydney!

ECTC Fire Truck-Push In Students in the Public Safety & Law program at the Elmore County Technical Center recently received a fire truck from the Wetumpka Fire Department and conducted a traditional push-in ceremony in the apparatus bay at ECTC’s new facility.

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

A Special April at The Edge The Edge staff supports Autism Awareness and the Month of the Military Child in April, 2022.

River Region Parents I May 2022

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ECTC Ribbon Cutting The Elmore County Technical Center recently moved in the newly constructed wing on campus.

This facility houses 8 of ECTC’s 13 programs in expanded and upgraded classroom and lab spaces including a hanger for Aviation. Staff invited board members as well as community and industry partners to the ribbon cutting ceremony during March.

Currently, the rest of the ECTC campus is undergoing renovations and reconstruction to improve the learning spaces for the other 5 programs and provide space to grow new programs.

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Gangsters and Flappers Invade Homeschool Co-Op Charlie Chaplin and Charles Lindbergh join flappers, gangsters, bank robbers, newsboys and Prohibition agents at Academy Days Co-op’s Roaring ‘20s Feast recently. These are the costume contest winners from each history class.

During the feast, homeschoolers and their parents enjoyed sampling a variety of signature dishes from the 1920s, such as deviled eggs, Waldorf salad, red velvet cake and pineapple upside-down cake. The feast culminated weeks of study on the 1920s period of U.S. history.

The Academy Days Co-op, held weekly during the school year at Eastmont Baptist Church in Montgomery, is designed for kindergarten through high school students to learn subjects difficult to teach at home or best taught in group settings. For more information about the co-op, visit www.AcademyDays.com.

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The Internet is Not All Bad Wait for it... The internet is not all bad. Yes, even for your teens. I know you are thinking, wait a minute, you have told us ALL of the bad things. All of the disturbing things our kids have access to. How it can effect the rest of their lives.

How it can shift their thought processes.

How it can create irrevocable changes.

So let’s reframe this for a minute. What if I told you that, yes, it absolutely can do all of those things, but in a positive way.

I often feel like chicken little when I speak or write on this subject. Most days it does feel like the sky is falling, especially with so many kids floating freely through an unmonitored, unrestricted space.

However, I think we can all agree there are beautiful stories to be found online. We see them everyday. But in the mess of it all, they sometimes get overlooked.

The headline of “a teen helps an elderly stranger” never seems as interesting as the news that the sky is falling. But, the reality is, we can help gently move our children into this positive space by teaching them what to look for.

I frequently ask kids during conferences if they are tired of hearing what they can NOT do online. I am always met with a resounding, YES! Then I ask if anyone ever takes the time to tell them what they CAN do. And I am told, NO. If our kids are going to be in this space, let’s show them the wonderful, beautiful, helpful side of online.

I often use the analogy that our kids are a lot like puppies. A puppy will chew on your furniture or chew on a bone. They are going to chew, but we can decide what they get to chew on. Also, if we are being honest, kids have the attention span of a puppy. So while the bone is fun for a while, they will inevitably want to go back to the furniture. This is where we come in with constant guidance and re-direction.

River Region Parents I May 2022

Case in point, my son and I were hanging on the couch the other day. We were watching his TikTok. Yes, he has TikTok. He turned 17 this month.

There is a whole conversation around this that I will address another time, but he does have it. And I do monitor it. That day he was looking at random junk. Nothing “bad” mind you. Just junk. So I said to him we should spend some time looking at the colleges he is interested in and do it through his social media accounts. He looked at me and said, “Huh?” I reminded him that he can look at schools or baseball programs through Instagram, TikTok and even Snap Chat. I was met with another, “Huh?” Now, I realize that this story may not be painting my parenting/social media education skills in the best light. Shouldn’t he already know these things. I have said them. A lot. Does he even LIVE with me?

He is incredibly smart, but this is a perfect example of how kids have to be reminded of the positive, uplifting, wonderful things they CAN do with their social media. He knew he could do it…just all of the other junk gets in the way.

Today, and in the weeks to come, remind your kids what they CAN do. Show them how to access positive stories, how they can build their own business, how they can look up the college they have always wanted to attend, how they can use it to apply for their dream job.

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If your children love to travel, show them all of the amazing places in the world they may visit. Show them apps that support their mental health either through meditation or simply moving their bodies.

Find groups or activists that have the same goals and teach them how to get involved and use their voices in a positive manner that will create lasting change. And puppies. Teach them how to look up videos of all the puppies doing silly things.

Because it brings joy.

So let’s go back for a second to the beginning when we started this discussion and reframe those statements from a positive mindset. Did you know that social media can effect your children (positively) for the rest of their lives? It can (positively) shift their thought processes. It can create (positive) irrevocable change.

We become what we focus on. Let’s help our kids focus on what will support them most. Sometimes it’s just a matter of finding them a new bone to chew.

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate.

She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience.

She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

www.riverregionparents.com

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Teaching kids the value and rewards of hard work and earning their own money is an integral part of helping them develop into responsible adults.

Through this, they gain self-esteem, learn the real value of a dollar, and develop better saving and spending habits.

So share the list of jobs below with your pre-teens or teens for a variety of ways they can cash-in this summer. [or school-year] River Region Parents I May 2022

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The grass is always greener – What better way to soak up the sun, get fit, and make spare cash than mowing lawns?

Create some fliers, and be sure to mention you live in the neighborhood. Include your fees based on yard size. But try to keep the rates below the cost of professional services. Also, don’t forget to include your phone number. Then deliver the fliers to the homes in your neighborhood. You can lodge them between doorknobs or tuck them under doormats. Just don’t place anything in mailboxes because it’s illegal.

love sitters that keep their children busy. Also, don’t forget to clean up and wash dirty dishes.

A little dirt never hurt – Garage cleaning is a big chore,

especially for the elderly, or anyone who just doesn’t have the time.

So offer your services to relatives and neighbors. When you get a job, be thorough. Move everything into the driveway or yard before you begin. Remove cobwebs with a broom. Sweep ledges and the garage floor. Then hose the garage concrete (with permission) to loosen ground-in dirt. When it’s dry, neatly arrange everything back into the garage.

Young entrepreneur – Make the most of your neighbors’ garage sales by setting up a refreshment stand in your own front yard. You’ll need a small table and a handmade sign: “Cookies and Lemonade - 50 cents each.” Set out a pitcher of lemonade or Koolaid, disposable cups, and wrapped cookies. At the end of the sale, add up your profits, and divide them with your partners.

Fence finishing – Wood fencing requires ongoing maintenance. So offer to assist your neighbors in sprucing up their yard by painting or staining their fences. The homeowner should supply the paint or stain and the necessary tools. Be sure to follow directions. Also, take your time and do a careful job.

Too old for toys and games? – If so, clean out those you’ve outgrown, and hold a sale. Make a cardboard or wooden sign to attract neighborhood kids and passersby. Then lay out blankets in your front yard, and spread out your goods. Keep your prices reasonable. And don’t forget a 25-cent box filled with odds and ends.

Window washing – Offering your services for this dreaded

task is sure to be a success. If you get the job, make sure your parents know the homeowner and approve of you going inside.

Clean the interior of all windows, including doors. Also, don’t forget to open the windows and clean the ledges and tracks. Offer to do exterior windows if you’re tall enough to reach them without a ladder. Ask permission to hose them down to remove loose dirt. Then wash and dry them by hand.

Kiddie care – Are you old enough to stay home alone? If so, you may be ready to babysit for other children. Spread the word through family, friends, and neighbors. Once you’ve gained experience, post fliers on the library, grocery, or laundromat bulletin boards. When babysitting, play games, and do activities with the kids. Avoid talking on the phone or watching TV. Parents

Life’s a zoo – Pet owners who don’t like to kennel their pets are often in a dilemma at vacation time. Pass out flyers in your neighborhood offering to pet sit. Do the sitting in your home, if your

Are you pregnant or parenting a child under age 2?

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Make it shine – Round up your friends, and get ready for some

parents agree. Otherwise, make regular visits to the pet’s home.

Be responsible, and do precisely as the pet owner instructs, for the safety of both you and the pet.

cold, wet fun! Hold a car wash in your driveway or a parking lot with permission from the property owner. Make a large colorful “Car Wash” sign. Include your cost (hint: set it no more than your local car wash charges). Have your supplies handy: a bucket of soapy water, rags or sponge, a hose, and plenty of dry towels.

Weeds away – Are weeds taking over your neighbors’ flowerbeds? Then offer to get them back into shape. Before you get started, find out which ones are plants versus flowers that haven’t yet bloomed. When in doubt, ask before you pull them. Wear gloves to protect your hands and hose the ground lightly to loosen roots. Pull weeds from rock beds, shrubbery, and cement cracks.

Then dispose of them properly.

Old McDonald had a farm - You don’t have to be raised on a farm to make a good farmhand. Although it’s certainly a bonus.

Visit area farms, and offer your help. Work may include laboring in fields to feeding and caring for livestock.

Dollars for duds– Have you hit another growth spurt? Ask

At your service – Offer home cleaning services to your neigh-

your parents if you can consign your clothing and split the profits. Search online for local consignment shops by using “resale,” “used clothing,” or “consignment” in your search terms. Find out the shops’ policies. Then get your clothing ready. Wash and dewrinkle, then hang or fold them neatly. Don’t forget shoes, jackets, and pajamas, too.

bors. Plan to do the following tasks, unless other arrangements are made: dust furniture and window ledges; vacuum carpet and stairs; sweep and mop tile, linoleum, and wooden floors; scour sinks, bathtubs, and toilets; shake out rugs; vacuum upholstered furniture; and make beds. Ask if straightening up is expected. Also, find out which cleaning products (supplied by the homeowner) to use on fixtures, appliances, and furniture to prevent damage.

Errands for the elderly – Are there handicapped, disabled,

or elderly persons in your neighborhood? If so, they’re apt to need some help. Offer to run errands within walking or biking distance.

Attach a basket to your bike, or carry a backpack for easy transporting. If you have your driver’s license, offer to do more distant-runs.

Pool patrol – If sunbathing is your thing, then this is the job for

you! Find out the age and certification requirements for lifeguard duty. Then apply at your community pool, YMCA, or nearby beach.

While keeping an eye on swimmers and soaking up the sun, keep your skin safe by using a good sunscreen. rrp

Who’s walking who? – If you’re looking for a new summer pal, why not make it man’s best friend? Pass out fliers to offer your pet walking services. Never run a dog unless the owner agrees.

And if the dog starts panting or doesn’t want to run, never push it.

Dogs can quickly overheat, which can kill them.

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Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com.

Now reopened—ArtWorks is an engaging gallery for all ages, where visitors can connect with art through interactive elements or enjoy the spaces set aside for quiet reading and imaginative play!

Learn more and plan your visit at mmfa.org.

Blount Cultural Park One Muesum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117

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by Kimberley Carter Spivey

May includes one of the most celebrated and memorable holidays of the year... Mother’s Day. And we all know that gathering around the table and honoring that special loved one with a beautiful meal adds a unique touch to the day. Whether you’re searching for that colorful springtime dish or a light and savory taste to please the palette, we’ve got you covered.

This month, I’m excited to share my Dinner’s Ready recipes. Not only do I have a passion for being a writer, editor, and curriculum developer, but I enjoy being in the kitchen and preparing different meals for my family to enjoy.

I’m married to Brian Spivey, and we have two children: Julian (15) and Amara (6). Both children are actively involved in sports and activities that bring them the most joy. Amara is a very active child, and her interests soar through a variety of things that she considers fun. She plays softball and soccer, along with taking ballet. Julian is a wrestler and has a passion for music. His talents emerge through creating musical beats through technology.

Both enjoy school and having social outlets to connect with friends through extracurricular activities.

Being residents of Pike Road, we enjoy living with neighbors in a community filled with family-friendly people. One of the best things about living in our neighborhood is that it’s filled with children. Our kids have made a lot of friends, and there’s always someone they can play with and have a great time together.

Growing up, I watched my mother prepare home-cooked Southern meals in the kitchen. Mom started cooking from a very River Region Parents I May 2022

early age, and she was a fantastic cook. She showed me and my brother how to cook with lessons from the kitchen.

We would sit at our bar stools and listen intently. As we got older, we started assisting my mom in the kitchen with measuring, kneading bread, talking through recipes, etc.

Also, my grandmother lived next door, so I had the opportunity to learn some of her iconic recipes. Her specialty was baking. My grandmother made the best, mouth-watering cakes, pies, teacakes, and cobblers. When she cooked, she never referenced anything written down. It was all by memory... a pinch of this and a dash of that.

With our busy schedules, it’s convenient to prepare meals that fit into our onthe-go lifestyle. One of my favorite dishes to prepare for a special occasion or busy weeknight is a charcuterie board with an accompanying side dish. A perfectly arranged spread of meat, cheese, crackers, and condiments is irresistible at any gathering.

The presentation looks beautiful, and you can add a variety of foods. You can make it your own; the themes are endless. When I prepare one for my family, I include foods everyone will enjoy.

Charcuterie Board Ingredients A variety of cheeses: (Gouda, Brie, Pepper Jack, and Monterey Jack) Publix spinach and artichoke dip 54

Porchetta Salami Carr’s Table Water and Whole Wheat Crackers Purple grapes Green olives Garlic toast Chocolate covered strawberries Arrange, serve and enjoy!

Corn & Chicken Salad Ingredients 2 1/2 c. corn or four fresh husks (kernels removed) I often use a 15 oz bag of frozen and thaw on the counter.

2 c. cooked chopped rotisserie chicken 1 medium red onion, diced 1/2 cucumber, chopped 1/2 red bell pepper, chopped 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, chopped Salt and pepper to taste 1/2 tsp chili powder (optional) 1 limed, juiced 1/2 cup Greek yogurt or avocado mayo 2 oz feta, crumbled Stir and enjoy!

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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My kids never went to an overnight camp. They were happier sleeping in their own beds, and with a flexible work schedule, I didn’t have to worry about daycare most days. However, I would not have been able to work had I not planned out activities way in advance. Luckily, there are dozens of local opportunities to keep the kids busy this summer without breaking the bank.

1. Spend the week at Grandma’s.

Every year my sister and I would spend a week with our grandparents.

Twice we went on vacation with them, but most years we just hung out at their house. We played with our cousins, went shopping, played games and went to local events. It was nice to experience life with my grandparents in charge and it gave my parents the opportunity to go to work, worry free.

2. Attend Vacation Bible School.

VBS is held at many different churches every summer. This is an activity that your kids can participate in from preschool to high school and beyond. It is usually presented as a half day camp where kids do crafts, sing songs, watch skits and play games around a Bible theme. Many camps include a snack or lunch, too. The best part is that when the kids outgrow the activities, they can volunteer as a leader.

3. Attend a local high school camp.

Most local high schools offer sports, music or science week long, half day camps. The camps are usually run by older students and/or the coaches and teachers at the school. Camp is usually available to kids third grade through high school. It is fun for kids to participate in camps at the high school they will attend one day as the usually get a cool t-shirt as part of the camp.

4. Go on vacation.

Most families take some type of vacation – even if it is a staycation. Many people allow their kids to have a friend come along on the trip so they have someone their own age. If you are lucky, that same friend will invite your child to go on vacation with their family.

5. Park district camps have something for everyone.

In addition to sports, they may have cooking camps, STEM camps, first aid

camps and art camps. Many also offer an all day, day camp where campers go on local field trips to movies, pools, museums and zoos. The drop off and pick up is close to home. Choose one or more camps to suit your needs over the summer.

6. Create your own summer camps.

Work with your neighbors and friends to arrange activities like those offered in park district day camps. Save a few vacation days to take your kids (and theirs) to nearby water parks, nature trails, etc. It is a great way to fill in the holes of your summer day care plans.

7. University camps.

If you live near a university, take advantage of their summer camps for kids of all ages. They offer both academic and sports camps over several weeks. Like the high school camps, they have activities for a large range of age groups and most camps run for a week or two.

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8. Make time to volunteer.

If you kids are middle school age, they can volunteer some of their time by helping younger kids have fun. Libraries are looking for kids to help with summer reading program tables. Churches look for VBS helpers. Animal shelters look for dog walkers and people to entertain the cats.

Food pantries are looking for stockers and nursing homes are always happy to see younger faces.

9. Take it day by day.

When planning your summer calendar, turn to websites like Groupon to find affordable entertainment. It is a great source to find the new activities in town for a discounted price. Most Groupons are good for a month or more so if you see an interesting activity, snatch it up and save it for those rainy days.

10. Have an unscheduled week.

This is the week you can catch up on projects at home, shop for school supplies and clothes or create your own fun. This is also the week to schedule dentist appointments, school physicals and all those other things that need to be done over the summer. rrp

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three. She has discovered that the best summer plans are made early and hearing “I’m bored” from her kids is unavoidable.

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what we treat Minor Illnesses and Injuries Such as: Fever Allergies Cough and Colds Sprains and Strains Vomiting Sore Throat And Other Non-life-threatening Injuries

On-Site Services

X-Ray | Laboratory | Pharmacy

Open Late and on Weekends WEEKDAYS 2pm-10pm WEEKENDS 8am-6pm www.childrensurgent.com (334) 530-6361 www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

BAMA Lanes in Prattville 1734 East Main Street Prattville, AL 36066 EAT ‘n’ BOWL, (includes 2 games, shoe rental, and meal) Prices and times vary upon day.

(334) 358.8600

bamalanesusa.com

Bowlero 1661 Eastern Blvd.

Montgomery, AL 36117 Special summer deals. Please call for more information and weekend pricing.

(334) 819.7171

bowlero.com

Fountain City BMX Track 802 County Road 4 Prattville, AL 36067 Friday Practices are $5. Free 1 day trial. Fun for any age. Race on most Sundays. For more information please visit us on Facebook under Fountain City BMX.

Art / Music / Theater Abrakadoodle Summer Art Camps and Classes Montgomery, AL Abrakadoodle Summer Art Camps 2022 9:00 am- 12:00 pm. Preschool Camp (3-5) & Elementary Camp (6-12). $160 (Including all materials and registration)

(334) 265.5758 mcornwell@abrakadoodle.com abrakadoodle.com/AL01

Alabama Shakespeare Festival Theatre Camps 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Broadway South Musical Theatre Camp: Grades 9-12, June 27-July 1 Camp Shakespeare: Grades 4-6, June 6-10 or July 13-17, 8:30am - 4:00 p.m.

Camp Shakespeare Extreme: Grades 7-12, June 20-24, 9:00am - 4:00 p.m.

Behind the Curtain, Tech Camp: Grades 8-12, June 20-24, 9-NOON or 1-4 p.m.

(334) 271.5393

glambert@asf.net

asf.net

Armory Learning Arts Center 1018 Madison Ave. Montgomery, AL 36104 Summer 2022 Classes have been updated on our webpage. Check our our new offerings We offer kids summer art classes, adult art classes, music, dance, fitness and acting classes.

(334) 625.ARTS (2787) funinmontgomery.com/ recreation or on Facebook

Art Buzz Kids Camp at Wine & Design 7732 Eastchase Parkway Montgomery, AL 36117 Love Where You Live: June 13-16 (334) 245.3387 montgomery.al@wineanddesign. com wineanddesign.com/montgomeryal

ASU Tonea Stewart’s Performing Arts Camp 915 S. Jackson Street Montgomery, AL 36106 TAPS, May 31-June 11; Camp 3T, June 19-25 and Camp Gifted, June 27-July 1.

(334) 229.6755

toneastewartcamps.com

Barb’s Summer Art Camp 1923 Mulberry Street Montgomery, AL 36106 Summer ART with Barb Grimes at Nancy’s Ice. Paint a canvas - for ages 3 and up. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays; 10:30-11:30 a.m.

May 31-June 2, June 7-9, June 14-16, June 21-23, June 28-30, July 5-7, July 19-21 and July 26-28. $15 each class per child includes Free Ice Treat (334) 546-2233

barbsonmulberry.com

River Region Parents I May 2022

Montgomery Music Project Summer Camp 2416 West Cloverdale Pk Montgomery, AL 36104 Date to be decided; Montgomery Music Project (MMP) offers an enriching day camp full of engaging music activities and classes for children of a variety of ages and abilities. Daily orchestra lessons are supplemented with group drumming, musicianship class, singing and more.

(901) 603.0420 montgomerymusicproject@gmail.com montgomerymusicproject.org

P’zazz Art Studio 138 W. Main St. Prattville, AL 36066 Variety of summer camps from June 7-July 26.

(334) 354.1975

pzazzart.com

Pike Road Theatre Company Youth Production Camp Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr., June 6-17, from 9am-4pm. Email for details. jameskeith@pikeroadtheatrecompany.org ikeroadtheatrecompany.org

Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre Teen & Youth Theatre Camp 203 W 4th St., Prattville, AL 36066 Teen Camp: June 6-10, Ages 13-18 years old 9 a.m. until 1 p.m., $75 per student Youth Camp: June 20-25 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Ages 7-12 years (334) 595.0854 Facebook: Prattville’s WOBT

Wetumpka Depot Youth Academy presents “The Jungle Book” 300 South Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Wetumpka Depot is pleased to announce the return of our Youth Academy summer camp program! Young people ages 8-16 are invited to register for this summer camp program that culminates in three public performances. Camp dates are June 16-17, 20-25 from 9 am to 3 pm.

Performances are on June 25 at 6pm and 26 at 3pm and 6pm.

(334) 868.1440 kmeanor@wetumpkadepot.com wetumpkadepot.com

Biking / Bowling BAMA Lanes 3020 Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36109 EAT ‘n’ BOWL, while lane availability lasts, until 8 p.m. daily. (Includes 3 games, shoe rental, and meal). Prices vary upon day and time (334) 272.5423

bamalanesusa.com

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(334) 300.4328 info@fountaincitybmx.com www.fountaincitybmx.com

Dance / Gymnastics/ Cheer Alabama Dance Theatre ad on page 8

1018 Madison Avenue (The Armory Learning Arts Center) Montgomery, AL 36104 The Alabama Dance Theatre will be offering summer classes in Classical Ballet (age 3 to the professional level), Modern, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, Composition/Choreography, Tap and Broadway! Monday, June 6- Thursday, July 7.

Tutus and Tiaras Camp for ages 3-8 on May 31June 3 from 9:30-12:30. Classes will include preballet, creative movement, crafts, and story time.

July 11-25: Summer Intensive: This two week intensive allows dancers to attend classes with master teachers. They will also perform in Alabama Dance Theatre’s annual performance of Stars on the Riverfront. Free to the public. Please feel free to bring a picnic.

(334) 241.2590

alabamadancetheatre.com

Alabama River Region Ballet ad on page 49

7981 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Fairytale Ballet Camp: June 6-10, 9am – 12pm Register now for the most exciting event for young dancers, ages 3 – 7 years old! Each week, the dancers will learn about one fairytale ballet, meet the princess ballerina, and participate in themed crafts and activities.

ARRB Summer Dance Camp (Ages 8-11): June 5-10, Monday – Friday, 1-4 p.m. Alabama River Region Ballet School is excited to offer a two-week Summer Dance Camp for dancers, ages 8 – 11. Dancers will take daily classes in Ballet and Jazz, taught by ARRB’s School Director, Kyana Goodyear and ARRB Associate Artistic Director, Curran Tellalian. The dancers will also get to learn about Ballet History, Terminology, and learn about different classical ballets. Snacks will be provided.

ARRB Summer Intensive Seminar: June 20-July 1, Monday – Friday, 10 am – 2:30 p.m.

Alabama River Region Ballet School is excited to offer a two-week Intensive Summer Seminar for intermediate and advanced students, ages 12 – 18 with a minimum one year of experience on pointe. Dancers will take daily classes in Ballet,

www.riverregionparents.com

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Pointe, Variations, Jazz, Modern and Contemporary taught by some of the most talented guest artists and ARRB teachers. The Summer Intensive will include a repertory of classes that focuses on improving the dancers’ technique, as well as the opportunity to learn new choreography, and choreography from the classical repertory.

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

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection ad on page 34

3370 Harrison Rd. Montgomery, AL 36109 Make plans for fun summer camp! All day, all week long. Camps offered the week of June 6 through the week of July 18 from 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Activities, arts and crafts, various styles of dance, talent shows, fashion shows, reading time, dress up, movies and mor ! Ages 3 & up.

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United Gymstars & Cheer Camp

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6100 Brewbaker Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36116 June 6- July 29 - 8 week Summer Camp, Weekly themed activities, gymnastics, trampoline, rope climbing, crafts and more. Time: 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Ages: 5-13. Half Day offered for 4 year olds.

Afternoon snack provided. Please bring a sack lunch. Build your own schedule. Flexible days and times. Call for rates.

(334) 284.2244

unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

C.J.’S Dance Factory (home of Prattville Ballet) 145 South Court Street Prattville, AL 36067 June 23rd-July 21st - Thursdays, with something for everyone! Camp ends with a performance!

(334) 467.8603

cjsdancefactory.com

Dance Generation 65 Ashburton Dr Montgomery, AL 36117 Tap, ballet, jazz, baton, lyrical, hip hop and gymnastics. Ages 3-adult, Beginner, intermediate and advanced levels.

(334) 395.4300

dancegenerationstudio.com

Lisa’s Dance Dimensions 2981 Main St. Millbrook, AL 36054 Classes will be running 7 weeks beginning June 6th. Day and Evening classes available.

(334) 285.5515

lisasdancedimensions.com

Mann Dance Studio 422 Pratt St. Prattville, AL 36067 Classes begin in June and will run through July.

(334) 365.5154

manndancestudio.net

Montgomery Ballet 1062 Woodley Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Summer Intensive: Dates TBA At the end of each week students can invite their families to an end of week informal performance.

Zoom programs are offered for each week.

(334) 409.0522

montgomeryballet.org

Montgomery Cultural Arts Center 1018 Madison Avenue Montgomery, AL 36104 Pre-school Dance Classes: June 6-July 7; Mondays-Tuesday; 45 minute classes. Child must be potty trained.

(334) 625.2787

Next Dimensions Gymnastics 101 Penser Blvd. Millbrook, AL 36054 Classes will be running 7 weeks beginning June 6th. Day and Evening classes available.

(334) 285.5515

lisasdancedimensions.com

Pike Road Dance Academy 890 Old Carter Hill Road (The Old Mark’s House) Pike Road, AL 36064 Flipping for Summer ACRO Camp, July 26-29; Summer Elite Intensive, June 7-10; TIKTOK (ages 9+), July 26-29; and many more themed camps.

(334) 782.9200 pikeroaddance@gmail.com pikeroaddance.com

Tutu School Montgomery 2960G Zelda Road Montgomery, AL 36106 Sleeping Beauty Ballet Camp: 5 days starting June 27, 9a.m. until 2 p.m. Ages 3-8. $290 Nutcracker Camp: 4 days starting July 5 from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. Camp is open to children ages 3-8 years old. $240 (334) 363.3360

tutuschool.com

Day Camps Alabama Christian’s Camp Eagle ad on page 71

4700 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery, AL 36109 Starts May 31st -July 29th (off the week of 4th of July); $235.00 weekly. Every day at Camp

Eagle is filled with exciting activities - and LOTS of them!! Your child will be placed in age-appropriate groups and get to participate in recreational and team building activities. We would love for you to join us as we soar into a summer of fun!

(334) 277-1985 dsanford@alabamachristian.org acacampeagle.org

Alabama Christian Academy NEST ad on page 71

4700 Wares Ferry Road Montgomery, AL 36109 Starts May 23rd- August 5tt; $210.00 weekly We would love for you to join us as we soar into a summer of fun!

(334) 277-1985

dsanford@alabamachristian.org

Newtopia Fun Park ad on page 3

3731 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery, AL Register now for summer camp, July 11-14, Ages 5-10 only. Fun, exciting daily themed activities.

(334) 356.4518 www.newtopiafunpark.com

YMCA Prattville ad on page 42

600 E. Main Street (Smith Branch) and 972 McQueen Smith Road (Bradford Branch) Prattville YMCA Summer Day Camp, girls and boys ages 6-12. Begins May 31 – August 9. Monday – Friday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Summer Day Camps are available at Daniel Pratt Elementary School, Main and Pine Level Elementary School.

For more information contact the YMCA Childcare Branch at (334) 358-1446. Online registration available at prattvilleymca.org. Financial assistance available for those who qualify.

Smith Branch, (334) 365.8852 East Bradford Branch, (334) 358.9622 prattvilleymca.org

ASU SKYCAP/ReImagined 2022 915 S. Jackson Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Alabama State University’s Division of Continuing Education is bringing their Summer Youth/Kids College Adventure Program (SKYCAP) back with online and face-to-face options! SKYCAP Reimagined, a newly designed program, is a fun-filled college learning adventure for children and youth in grades 2 -9.

(334) 229.4686

alasu.edu/continuingeducation

Alabama Wildlife Federation 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, AL 36054 ANC Summer Camp: Camp dates and sessions

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offered from May 31 through August 5th. Please visit our website for session dates and descriptions for each camp. All camp sessions are co-ed and full day, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.; with the exception of Tadpole Camp. Lunch is included and extended care is available.

(334) 285.455

alabamawildife.org

AUM Youth Summer Programs 75 Techna Center Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Camps offered from June through July The College of Education offers a variety of educational enrichment programs for children of all ages including Summer Youth Camps, Math & Reading Programs, and an Accelerated Program.

These programs instill children with an excitement for learning, prepare them for the upcoming school year, and even equip them with necessary skills for the college entrance exam.

(334) 244.3804

outreach.aum.edu/classes

Boys & Girls Clubs of the River Region Chisholm, 2612 Lower Wetumpka, West End, 220 Crenshaw St, and Wetumpka, 399 North Alabama St Montgomery, AL 36104 Focus on 5 core program areas: Education, Arts, Sports & Recreation, Health & Life Skills and Citizenship Leadership Development. Cost: $5 per child per year. Mon-Fri, 9 a.m.- 5 p.m.

(334) 832.4288

Bgcmala.org

Camp Grandview — YMCA 4700 Camp Grandview Road Millbrook, AL 36054 Dates: May 24 - August 5. Grandview Family YMCA Summer Day Camp is an action-packed outdoor experience led by highly trained and imaginative YMCA staff, located on 190 wooded acres with two beautiful lakes. As a Day Camp, our facilities are unmatched; a water park, lap pool, an airnasium, fishing pond, athletic fields, hiking trails, mud pit, disc golf, ga-ga pits, an archery range, art and game room, and a gymnasium. This camp is for children that have completed kindergarten through 8th grade.

Find more info at ymcamontgomery.org.

(334) 290.9622

ymcamontgomery.org

Camp Sunshine for Boys 3067 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36111 June 6-10; Other: Outreach program for less advantaged youth with a variety of outdoor activities. No cost but invitation only camp; may call for application.Ages: Ages 6-11 (334) 262.2697

Camp Tukabatchee 3067 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36111 Boy Scout Day and resident camps.

(800) 977.2688

camptuk.org or tukabatcheebsa.org

Gross Out Camp takes Science Outdoors Alabama Nature Center, Millbrook, AL 36054 July 25-29; Cost: $200; Yuck...if it’s gross we’ve got it! This award-winning science camp focuses on hands-on biology. The camp combines science experiments, exploring, journaling, and natureinspired arts and crafts to address a variety of learning styles. Ages 6-9.

(205) 540-6642

GrossOutCamp.org

Montgomery Zoo Summer Camps 2301 Coliseum Parkway Montgomery, AL 36110 Join kids of similar ages and interests for a funpacked, educational experience themed around ZOOFARI WORLD QUEST. Camps are available for ages 5-12 years old; full-day camps.

(334) 240.9400

montgomeryzoo.com

Prattville Parks & Recreation Summer Youth Program Doster Center, 424 S. Northington St. Prattville, AL 36067 Weekly Field Trips, Games, Crafts and Swimming.

Begins May 31 until the Friday before school River Region Parents I May 2022

starts, 7a.m. until 6 p.m. Ages: K5-6th Grade (334) 361.3640

prattvilleal.gov

YMCA Cleveland Branch 1201 Rosa L. Parks Ave Montgomery, AL 36108 10 weeks of Youth Specialty Camps, May 31 until August 5.

(334) 265.0566

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA East Branch 3407 Pelzer Ave. Montgomery, AL 36109 10 weeks of Youth Specialty Camps, May 31 until August 5.

(334) 272.3390

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Goodtimes 3407 Pelzer Ave. Montgomery, AL 36117 Summer Goodtimes Day Camp: At the Y this summer, children ages 5 to 14 can do everything from learning how to swim improving their reading skills. Every day your child will participate in learning enrichment activities that stretch their mind, daily devotions that will teach them character through skits and songs, and health and nutrition through the daily snack and lunch program.

Summer Goodtimes Day Camp will be offered at Cleveland YMCA, East YMCA, Goodtimes Center, and Wetumpka YMCA. (334) 279-8833

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Kershaw 2225 West Fairveiw Ave. Montgomery, AL 36108 Summer Camp Dates, May 31 until August 5.

(334) 265.1433

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Southeast Branch 3455 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, AL 36111 Summer Camp Dates, May 31 until August 5 Ages: Ages 5-15 (334) 262-6411

ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Wetumpka 200 Red Eagle Road Wetumpka, AL 36092 Summer Camp Dates, May 24- August 1. Please call for more information on times and fees.

(334) 567-8282

ymcamontgomery.org

Day Trips

callawaygardens.com

Chewacla State Park 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy. Auburn, AL 36830 696 scenic acres are a delightful pause from nearby interstate traffic. Facilities include a 26-acre lake, swimming area, playgrounds, hiking trails, a modern campground, picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters, and newly renovated cabins.

(334) 887.5621

(334) 514.0279

alapark.com/Chewacla/

Coosa River Adventures 415 Company Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Available all days (weather permitting). Scheduling is required. Cost is $59 per two-person canoe, $55 per sit-on-top, two person kayak and $29 per sit-on-top, one-person kayak. Stand-up paddleboards rental is $39. Cost includes transportation to the launch site, paddles and life jackets. Shuttle rate for those owning their own equipment is $15

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coosariveradventures.com

DeSoto State Park 13883 County Road 89, Fort Payne, AL 36967 Nestled atop beautiful scenic Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama, this 3,502-acre park provides Mountain Chalets, Log & Rustic Cabins, Motel Rooms, Meeting Rooms, and also has both Improved & Primitive campgrounds. Also features a picnic area with playground, Olympic-size swimming pool, nature center with interpretive programs and live animals, & over 19 miles of hiking & mountain biking trails.

(256) 845.0051

alapark.com/DeSotoResort

Georgia Aquarium 225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta, GA Atlanta, GA 30313 With more than eight million gallons of fresh and marine water and more aquatic life than found in any other aquarium, you are sure to see things you’ve never seen before! Please check our website for rates and specials. Annual, premium, combo, and group rates available (404) 581.4000

georgiaaquarium.org

Horseshoe Bend Military Park 11288 Horseshoe Bend Rd. Daviston, AL 36256 Enjoy hiking the trails, a picnic, canoe the Tallapoosa River, and go fishing. Children (6 to 12 years old) with families are encouraged to participate in the Junior Ranger Program. Program booklets are available free at the Visitor Center.

Children completing the required activities will be awarded a Certificate and Junior Ranger Badge.

The program must be completed while in the Park and is not available for groups.

(256) 234.7111

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

Imagine It! Children’s Hands on Museum 275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW. Atlanta, GA 30313 Atlanta’s only children’s museum, is the perfect place for children age eight and under and their families to learn and explore together in a safe and fun hands-on environment.

(404) 659.KIDS

Callaway Gardens US Hwy 18 Pine Mountain , GA 31822 Summer hours- 9:00 am-6:00 pm daily. Your family will love hiking in our gardens, swimming in Robin Lake, exploring the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, golf, spa and more. Summer Family Adventure is a four- to seven-night Summer vacation that connects your loved ones and offers countless options for fun in a beautiful natural environment. Callaway Gardens partners with the Florida State University Flying High Circus, whose members lead guests ages 3-17 in a variety of exciting day-camp activities.

1-800-Callaway

per kayak or canoe. Try out tote-n-float Program.

Simply tote one of our boats and float your favorite waters. Canoes are $59 a day. add tax to prices listed. Call for appointment and scheduling.

childrensmuseumatlanta.org

McWane Science Center 200 19th Street North Birmingham, AL 35203 Rates range $8.00-$20.00; Children under 2 Free; Monday-Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am- 6:00 pm, Sunday 12:00-6:00 (205) 714.8300

mcwane.org

Stone Mountain U.S. Highway 78 East, Exit 8 Stone Mountain, GA 30083 Toddlers 2 and under Free, Discounts and annual passes available; Summer at the Rock! June 8-July 28; 10:30 am -8:00 pm. Summer at the Rock includes adventure and excitement for every member of the family. From fun filled attractions to special summer entertainment and the nightly Lasershow Spectacular in Mountainvision, it’s the perfect destination for you and your family to unplug and reconnect this summer.

1- 800-401-2407

stonemountainpark.com

Swayback Bridge Trail Jordan Dam Road in Elmore County Wetumpka Hiking/Biking approximate 8-mile trail with arrows and 1/4-mile markers so you can turn back when you reach your limit. Or the looping nature of the trail allows for crossover at several points to shorten your trip. Trail has views of creek and the Swayback Bridge, which is part of the old Hwy. 231.

No charge, but do accept donations to help maintain the trail. No motorized vehicles or horses.

(334) 567.9090

trailoflegends.org/

www.riverregionparents.com

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Windcreek State Park 4325 Alabama Hwy 128 Alexander City, AL 35010 This park spans 1,445 acres along the shores of scenic Lake Martin, that is a 41,000-acre clearwater reservoir perfect for fishing, swimming and boating. Park facilities include the largest stateoperated campground in the United States with 626 sites.

(256) 329.0845

alapark.com/WindCreek

Educational / Training / Misc.

Churchill Academy ad on page 26

395 Ray Thorington Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Tutoring available for summer. Grades K-12.

One-on-one tutoring. Call for rates. Times at parents’ convenience.

(334) 270.4225

churchillacademy.net

Macon East Academy Educational Camps ad on page 17

15396 Vaughn Road Cecil, AL 36013 July Jammin Educational Camp for Grades K56th, Dates: TBD; Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 277.6566

maconeast.net

Mathnasium Summer Power Math Workout Programs ad on page 19

3453 Malcolm Drive (Taylor Road at Billingsley Place Promenade) Montgomery, AL 36116 Prevent the “summer slide”! Solidify foundations, improve understanding, and get ahead on next year’s concepts in a fun,low-pressure environment. Hours : Sunday 2-4, Monday and Wednesday 3:30-7:30; Tuesday and Thursday 11:30-4:30 (334) 356.1570

mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery

Sylvan Individualized Tutoring Camps ad on page 55

4240 Lomac Street Montgomery, AL 36106 Individualized Tutoring Camp: Go back to school powered by a summer of Learning! Dates are

May 31st through August 4th. 2 hour sessions twice a week. Monday through Thursday, Times: 9:30–11:30; 1:30-3:30; 4:30-6:30. $130 a week; $95 registration fee and $49 per assessment for new students.

(334) 262.0043

sylvanlearning.com/montgomery

ACT Boot Camp 1565 Ray Thorington Rd Montgomery, AL 36117 June 6-9 and July 11-14. Lee Gonet’s unique method of having students take multiple practice tests, individually rework missed problems, and then review error types in group settings improves students’ scores dramatically, increasing ACT composites from 2 to 12 points in just a week’s time. This intensive prep class is Monday through Thursday 8-5.

(334) 524.7371

leestestprep.com

Huntington Learning Center 3251 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery, AL 36116 Individual testing and tutoring in reading, study skills, writing, phonics, spelling, math and ACT/ SAT prep, GED and exit exam. Students ages 5 - adult.

(334) 277.9200

huntinghelps.com

MasterRead 2815-C Zelda Rd. Montgomery, AL 36106 Grades K-12 individual tutoring. Sessions for reading, comprehension, phonemic awareness, phonics, math, composition, spelling, study skills and ACT/SAT preparation and Exit Exam preparation.

(334) 271.6295

Snapology Ages 6-14. Take time off your hands while your kids play, learn, and make life long friends. Please call or visit our website or on Facebook under Snapology of the River Region.

(334) 318.2824

MANE’s Unified Summer Camp 3699 Wallahatchie Roady Montgomery, AL 36064 4 weekly Camp sessions. Cost $250 per week.

May 31-June 2, June 7-9, June 21-23 and June 28-30. Riders must be between the ages of 4-14.

(334) 213.0909

maneweb.org

Libraries Autauga Prattville Public Library 254 Doster Street Prattville, AL Preregister at any Autauga Prattville Public Library Branch Today! The Summer Reading Program is to encourage reading throughout the summer months. June 13-July 19.

(334) 365.3396

applkids@bellsouth.net

appl.info

Millbrook Library 3650 Grandview Road Millbrook, AL Summer Reading Program for Ages 4-12 encourages reading though out the summer months and enjoy different adventures and travel to exciting places.

(334) 285.6688

Montgomery Library Sign up for summer reading programs to be held at various locations. https://www.mccpl.lib.al.us/

Wetumpka Library 212 S. Main Street, Wetumpka, AL Summer program offered for grades 1 – 6. Meeting at Wetumpka Civic Center. Registration starts in May. Summer program offered for grades 7-12.

(334) 567.1308

Recreation

snapology.com

Summer School & Tutoring at Success Unlimited 4500 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Summer School, June 6 through July.

Call now to enroll. Enrollment is limited. Dress code required. Tutoring offered June 4-July 25.

All grade levels. One on one time and Small Groups. $40 an hour.

(334) 213-0803

Horseback Riding

Doster Center 424 South Northington Street Prattville, AL 36067 Summer Youth Camp, grades K - 6th, Monday Friday, 7 a.m. – 6 p.m. Swim lessons and swim team (enrollment limited).

(334) 361.3640

prattvilleal.gov

suacademy.com

YMCA Goodtimes Center 2325 Mill Ridge Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 The YMCA Goodtimes program is designed to

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give our participants an active way to enjoy the summer, with daily devotions, swim lessons, a water park pool, organized indoor and outdoor games and creative activities. Ages 5 yrs. - 11 yrs.

Non- members $140 and Members $105; $50 non-refundable registration fee for non-member and members.

(334) 279.8666

ymcamontgomery.org

FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal

Saint James Sports Camps

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd Montgomery, AL 36117 (Indoor/air conditioned) Coach Bruno (Former pro & College coach - Masters Phy. Ed.) (All ages) Camp 1: May 30-June 3 Camp 2: June 13-17 Camp 3: June 27-July 1 Camp 4: July 11-15 Camp 5: July 25-29

6010 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Saint James School will continue its summer tradition of providing a variety of sports and cheerleader camps for young people.

Girls Camps: Basketball, May 31-June 3: Soccer, June 14-16: Softball, June 20-23: Volleyball, July 5-7: Cheer, July 25-27.

Boys Camps: Baseball, June 6-9: Basketball, June 13-16: Wrestling, June 20-22: Football, July 25-27

ad on page 33

Skating

(334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com fcmontgomery.com

ad on page 59

Macon East Academy Sports Camps

K Lynn’s Skating School Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36117 Summer Monday Night Classes. Students receive 30 minutes of group class instruction and the remaining Eastdale Mall Ice Palace session time to practice. The 4-week class is $68. Times: 6-6:30 from ages 7-12 and 6:30-7 for ages 4-6. Private lessons and group lessons available. Call after 5 p.m. for lesson rates and schedules.

(334) 272.7225

klynnice.com

2211 Ultimate Playzone 3541 McGehee Road Montgomery, AL 36111 (334) 593.7180

2211ultimateplayzone.com

Skate Zone Wetumpka 88 Red Eagle Pkwy. Wetumpka, AL 36092 Please call for Summer hours and rates. Please visit us on Facebook under Skate Zone 2000.

(334) 567.4434

Sports Clinics Faulkner Baseball Camps ad on page 45

Faulkner University, Atlanta Highway Montgomery, AL 36109 Whether you are a youth player looking to receive top instruction from a college coach, or you are a high school player hoping to hone your skills to reach the next level, we have something to offer you! All players must bring their own baseball equipment including sneakers/turf shoes in case of inclement weather. Youth Session I: June 1316; Youth Session II: June 20-23; Morning Youth Fundamentals Session III: June 27-29 faulknerbaseballcamps.com

River Region Parents I May 2022

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15396 Vaughn Road Cecil, AL 36013 Camps include Elementary baseball, soccer, volleyball, basketball and football. All camps open to the public. Age varies by camp.

Volleyball Camp, June 20-22 from 9 a.m.-noon.

(334) 277.6566

maconeast.net

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory Summer Camps ad on page 25

5350 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Wrestling Camp (Boys, K5-6th grade), May 31June 2 from 8:30-11:30 a.m.; Tennis Camp (Rising 4th-8th grade),July 25-27 from 8:30-11:30 a.m.; Baseball Camp (Boys, K5-6th grade), June 14-16 from 8:30-11:30 a.m.; Soccer Camp (K5-8th grade ), May 31-June 2 from 1-4 p.m.; Basketball Camp (K5-6th grade), June 6-8 from 8:30-11:30 a.m.; Softball Camp (Girls, K5-6th grade), June 20-22 from 8:30-11:30 a.m. ; Football Camp (Boys,K56th grade), July 25-27 from 8:30-11:30 a.m.; Volleyball Camp (Girls, rising 4th-8th), June 13-15 from 8:30-11:30 a.m.; Cheer Camp (Girls, K4-6th grade.), August 3-5 from 9-noon; Color Guard Camp (Rising 4th-7th grade), August 8-10.

(334) 272.7221

montgomerycatholic.org

O’Connor Tennis Camps ad on page 51

500 Anderson Street Montgomery, AL Dates: June 6-9, 13-16, 20-23, 27-30 and July 11-14, 18-21, and 25-28 (All classes Monday thru Thursday from 9 am to 11 am) Advance registration, $100 per week.

(334) 240.4884 bbradshaw10s@gmail.com oconnortenniscenter.com

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(334) 277.8033, ext. 145

stjweb.org

Young Meadows Sports Camp 5780 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Sports Camp is our Vacation Bible School held June 6-10 from 9 a.m. until noon for children ages K5 through 6th grade.

(334) 244.1385

youngmeadows.org

Swim Adventure Sports ad on page 68

1546 East Ann St. Montgomery, AL 36107 Private swim lessons offered for ages 2 years to adult YEAR round. Indoor and outdoor pool available. Heated indoor pool for year round lessons.

Pool parties offered.

(334) 269.DIVE (3483)

adventuresports2.co

Pratt Park, Prattville 460 Doster Road Prattville, AL 36067 Swimming lessons. Ages 6months to 36 months and 3 and up. Please call for rates and session dates. Maximum of 20 kids. No makeup days due to weather unless the whole session is canceled.

Check with your local branch for times and costs.

(334) 361.3640

prattvilleal.gov

Swim Prep Montgomery and Prattville, AL Private One-o-one swim lessons starting at 6 months. Maintenance and group classes offered after student has graduated our program. (334) 375.2023

YMCA Branches Summer Swim Leagues; Registration: Now until August 1st. Visit website for locations. ymcamontgomery.org

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Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases Apollo 10 ½: A Space Age Childhood

Netflix

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

A

B

B+

B-

B-

Growing up in Houston in the 1960s, Stanley is caught up in the excitement of the space race. His father works for NASA’s Mission Control and Stanley daydreams about being selected for an imaginary peewee space program dedicated to sending a kid to the moon. This rotoscoped animation project is a warm, nostalgic tribute to 1960s childhoods that will bring back fond memories to adults who remember the era. Younger viewers will enjoy learning about those exciting and turbulent times as they follow the story that unfolds across the screen. Negative content is minor and is largely historically relevant. Adults and older kids who share a fascination with space travel should make some popcorn and turn on Netflix. Photo: ©Netflix

Better Nate than Ever

Disney+

Rating PG

Overall A-

Violence A

Sex A-

Profanity A-

Alcohol/Drugs A

Nate Foster dreams big. The thirteen-year-old aspires to a career on Broadway but he can’t land the lead role in his middle school musical. Undaunted, Nate is determined to audition for a real Broadway production, even though the audition is in New York. The recklessness Nate displays in reaching for his goal is the only issue of concern in this otherwise family-friendly film. It has impressive musical sequences and excellent child acting while also providing strong messages about persistence, goal setting, and friendship. Adults won’t find the story original but it's definitely heartfelt and will appeal to family audiences. Photo ©Disney+

Rescued by Ruby

Netflix

Rating TV-G

Overall A-

Violence B+

Sex A

Profanity B+

Alcohol/Drugs A

Daniel O’Neil is a Rhode Island state trooper with a lifelong ambition to work in the K9 unit. After seven failed attempts, he decides to find and train his own dog and then apply. At the shelter he meets Ruby, a dog who has been repeatedly re-homed due to her exuberance and constant disobedience. Refusing to give up, Daniel learns that love, persistence, and faith in himself and his dog are critical to success in his unlikely venture. This movie has a made-for-tv feel but that is overshadowed by the sincerity and heart with which it shares this inspiring true story. Overflowing with positive messages and virtually free of negative content, it’s a great choice for family movie night – especially for animal lovers. Photo ©Netflix

Sonic the Hedgehog 2

Theaters

Rating PG

Overall C

Violence B

Sex A-

Profanity B

Alcohol/Drugs B

Dr. Robotnik has escaped his banishment on an alien planet and is returning to earth in company with Knuckles, a warrior with a grudge against Sonic. Both villains are determined to find the mythical Master Emerald, which would give them limitless power. Standing in their way are Sonic and his new friend, Tails. Sonic the Hedgehog 2 is aimed at young viewers and barely hits its mark, triggering precious little laughter in the theater. The frenetic action will keep many youngsters engaged but the only compensation for adults is that it’s as forgettable as it is unwatchable. It’s not worth paying theater prices; whether it’s worth the time to stream it in the future is an individual decision. Photo © Paramount Pictures Grades range from: A= absence of content concerns to D= excess of content concerns Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com

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Great Mom Apps

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That Can Make Your Life

A Little Bit Easier Tanni Haas, Ph.D.

Allrecipes Dinner Spinner

Mother’s Day is on May 9, the perfect opportunity to take care of yourself and other moms that you know. There are a lot of

Available at: Amazon Apps; Apple Appstore; Google Play We’ve all been in this situation many times: It’s 5 pm, dinner time, you’ve got to make a meal for the family but all that comes to mind is the same things you always make.

How about trying Allrecipes Dinner Spinner, the world’s largest and most popular social app for food? You can find user-generated and reviewed recipes from 30 million other home cooks like yourself. You can search by keyword, key

apps out there dedicated to making a mom’s life a little bit easier, whether you’re looking for ideas on what to serve for dinner or kid-friendly travel advice. Here’s a list of some of the very best mom apps.

They’re free, so download an app... or 3!

River Region Parents I May 2022

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tion packaging, and organize receipts in one place that’s accessible to everybody.

ingredients that you want to include or exclude, special dietary needs, and cooking time. You can also see which ingredients are on sale in local stores, and watch more than 1000 step-by-step cooking videos with easy-to-follow instructions.

Find My Kids

Available at: Amazon Appstore; Apple Appstore; Google Play One of the most stressful experiences is not knowing where your kids are at any given moment. Nowadays, almost all kids have cell phones, which helps minimize the stress.

Find My Kids, a GPS-based location app, lets you to track your kids quickly and easily. Once registered, each family member appears as a unique icon on a navigational map so you know exactly where your kids are at all times. The app sends out automatic alerts when your kids arrive at school or go home, and monitors their cell phone battery levels letting you when they’re low so you can send out reminders to charge the phones.

Artkive

Available at: Apple Appstore; Google Play Like in most families, I imagine, my kid’s artwork is anywhere you look and don’t look: on the living room walls, in my bedroom, and stashed away in various cabinets and drawers.

But there’s an alternative. Artkive is a great app for storing, sharing, and printing your kid’s artwork. You can search uploaded images by which of your kids created the piece, what grade they were in, and when it was made. You can also make high-quality, actual books to give as gifts to family and friends, and turn images into keepsake items like t-shirts, mugs, and cell phone covers.

Scholly

Available at: Amazon App; Apple Appstore; Google Play The time may be around the corner or far off into the future, but when it does arrive we’re all going to need it: money for college. Wouldn’t it be nice if at least some of that money is scholarships that you won’t have to pay back? Developed by a former Drexel University student by the name of Christopher Gray who amassed $1.3 million in scholarship funds, Scholly is a database with more than 20.000 scholarship opportunities across the U.S that is continuously expanded and updated. You can look at each scholarship to learn more about eligibility requirements, the application process, important deadlines, and the amount of money offered.

Cozi Family Organizer

Available at: Amazon Appstore; Apple Appstore; Google Play As the name implies, Cozi Family Organizer is an organizer. It has a shared calendar where you can track everyone’s schedules both individually and as a group, and a shared shopping list where you can see when items are added to the list or purchased by other family members in real-time. You can also use the app to send automated daily or weekly agenda emails to other family members, create specialized to-do lists, such as emergency supplies or vaca-

Passion for Women’s Health Established in 1991, OB-GYN Associates of Montgomery provides comprehensive obstetrics and gynecologic services. The practice also offers gynecological surgical services and the most innovative up-to-date Robotic Davinci Surgeries. The OB-GYN team of physicians, midwives, and nurse practitioners strive to provide excellence in women’s healthcare and are welcoming new patients.

S E RV I C E S O F F E R E D : Gynecology • Obstetrics • Nurse Midwifery

Urodynamics

Routine Mammograms

4D Ultrasounds

Bone Density • Weight Loss

PTNS (Percutaneous Posterior Nerve Stimulation) A low risk, non-surgical treatment for overactive bladder and similar symptoms.

Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation A treatment of bladder, bowel, and pelvic pain disorders.

(New) Mona Lisa Touch Laser A novel laser therapy for vaginal health that can be “life changing”

We Have Five Locations to Serve You Montgomery (334) 279-9333 • 495 Taylor Rd. Troy (334) 770-4801 • 1320 Highway 231 South, Suite 2 Prattville (334) 365-6088 • 630 McQueen Smith Road Wetumpka (334) 279-9333 • 277 Huntress Street Midwife Office (334) 395-6969 • 7020 Sydney Curve, Montgomery

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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.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Squat or Not

formally as the TripAdvisor for kid-friendly travel, is an app that includes user-generated reviews of activities, hotels, and restaurants that kids will enjoy throughout the U.S. and Canada. The app includes a price slider that makes it easy to find things to do that are either low-cost or free, and offers suggestions for kidfriendly day trips.

Available at: Apple Appstore; Google Play When travelling with kids, especially toddlers, there are few things more frustrating than not being able to find a public restroom when you really need one. SitOrSquat is a location-based app that lets you to find bathrooms in your location. The app contains a usergenerated list of more than 100,000 public restrooms throughout the U.S. You can get the travel time to the nearest bathroom, and search by specific features like changing tables or handicap accessible, and you are encouraged to post pictures and rate the restrooms as either “Sit” (good) or “Squat” (not good) to help other app users.

7 Minute Workout

Available at: Apple Appstore; Google Play Let’s be honest: no matter how enjoyable it is, parenting is also exhausting. Physically exhausting. While it can be difficult to find time to work out, we all have seven minutes a day to spare. Wahoo 7 Minute Workout is one of the most popular short-interval fitness apps available. The routine is divided into 12 high-intensity exercises that last for 30 seconds, with 10 second of rest intervals. The exercises train your chest, abs, arms and legs through body weight training, push-ups, sit-ups, and squats. You don’t need any equipment so you can do the exercises wherever and whenever. rrp

Trekaroo Family Travel

Available at: Apple Appstore I can’t count how many times on vacation with my 15-yearold son that he shouted in frustration: “Another museum?!” It doesn’t have to be that way. Trekaroo Family Travel, known in-

River Region Parents I May 2022

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences & Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.

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FamilyCalendar Sunday May 1

Splashpad Season Opening (free) 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Pratt Park, 460 Doster Rd. Prattville, AL, 36067 Cool off with our free splashpad, located in Pratt Park. The splashpad features a variety of water features and has proven to be a summertime favorite over the years. Open 7 days a week.

Closed during inclement weather.

(334) 595-0800 www.prattvilleal.gov/ Music in May at The Waters (free) 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM, The Waters’ Town Square, 201 Waters View Dr. Pike Road, AL, 36064 Join your friends at The Waters in Pike Road for Music in May - LIVE MUSIC at The Square from 4-6 PM! Grab your lawn chairs and snacks for a series of great afternoons.

(334) 277-5551 www.visitingmontgomery.com A Lesson Before Dying ($10-20) Cloverdale Playhouse, 960 Cloverdale Rd. Montgomery, AL, 36106 A Lesson Before Dying is a play by Romoulus Linney, based on the novel by Ernest J. Gaines. Recommended for ages 14+.

(334) 262-1530 http://www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/

Tuesday May 2

Wetumpka Nutrition Class ($5 member/$10 nonmember) 9:15 AM Wetumpka YMCA, 200 Red Eagle Rd. Wetumpka , AL, 36092 This class meets the first Tuesday of every month in Group X Room. This class will teach simple ways to properly fuel the body in order to sustain a healthy weight, healthy heart, and healthy brain function.

(334) 567-8282 www.ymcamontgomery.org/specialevents/

Thursday May 5

Community Market Wetumpka (free) 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Merchant’s Ally in Downtown Wetumpka, Wetumpka, AL, 36092 The Community Market showcases a variety of handmade, homemade and homegrown products created by local artisans, and farmers. First Thursday of every month AprilNovember. www.mainstreetwetumpka.org/linger-longer-weekend s?fbclid=IwAR1WfMwPchu4gk0EvGLP6mXmm6qUveB QtPUJJm0LU3KX71DZ1hWaZ-Z6Dp0 Biscuits First Responder Night and T-shirt Giveaway ($9-15) 6:35 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 We will recognize local first responders during the game and celebrate Cinco de Mayo! The first 1,000 fans 15 & older will go home with a free t-shirt! www.milb.com/montgomery A Lesson Before Dying ($10-20) Cloverdale Playhouse, 960 Cloverdale Rd. Montgomery, AL, 36106 A Lesson Before Dying is a play by Romoulus Linney, based on the novel by Ernest J. Gaines. Recommended for ages 14+.

(334) 262-1530 http://www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org/

Friday May 6

Friday on the Green (free) 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM, Russell Crossroads on the Town Green, 19 Russell Farms Rd. Alexander City, AL, 35010 Grab your comfy stuff, kids, friends and leash for the pup and claim your spot on the Town Green to kick off the season with your favorite covers and original music by Mark and Neil of OTI! www.russellcrossroads.com/events.html

River Region Parents I May 2022

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Biscuits Nurses & Healthcare Appreciation Night and Stress Ball Giveaway ($9-15) 6:35 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 This night is our way of saying thank you to all the healthcare workers in Montgomery! The first 1,000 fans of all ages will also go home with a Biscuits-themed stress ball! www.milb.com/montgomery Holtville High Bulldog Bistro ($15) 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM Holtville High School, 10425 Holtville Rd. Deatsville, AL, 36022 Come out and help support the culinary program at the Holtville High Bulldog Bistro. To make reservations, just email Chef Beau at beau.myers@elmoreco.com www.elmoreautauganews.com/2021/10/26/holtvillehigh-school-friday-night-dinners-help-students-thrivetry-it-out-this-friday/ A Lesson Before Dying ($10-20) Details May 5.

Saturday May 7

Derby Day (free) 4:00 AM - 6:30 PM, The Stables, 288 Stables Loop Alexander City, AL, 35010 Derby Day at The Stables will have music from The Southern Gentlemen, a little finger food and drink, and we’ll raise some money for Children’s Harbor (50/50 Drawing) so bring some real money! There are some great prizes for the way you’re dressed and the luck of the draw! Come join your friends for Derby Day at The Stables!

(256) 794-1333 www.russellcrossroads.com/ events.html Millbrook Chamber of Commerce Big Fish Bass Tournament ($60) 6:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Bonner’s Landing Lake Jordan, Lake Jordan, AL Reschedule due to severe weather. www.millbrookareachamberofcommerce.growthzoneapp.com/ap/Events/Register/DLbd8zZp?sourceTypeId =Website&mode=Attendee Run for a Mom 10K, 5K, Fun Run 7:30 AM Agape of Central Alabama, 3800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, AL, 36106 Support Agape moms and children in your community by choosing to Run for a Mom on our certified cours or virtually wherever you are! The in-person race will have a staggered start beginning at 7:30. Start your 5K or 10K race anytime beween 7:30 and 8 a.m. Virtual runners have until May 9 to turn in times by sending a picture of timing device. Everyone registers at runforamom.org.

(334) 272?9466 www.agapeforchildren.org Kids Fish Fest 8:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Pratt Park Pond, 460 Doster Rd. Prattville, AL, 36067 All children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and use only one pole. 3 fish limit per child. You must provide your own fishing pole, tackle and bait. Ages 4-15 years old. After event the pond will be closed to the public until Wednesday, May 25, at 3pm.

(334) 595-0800 www.prattvilleal.gov/ Zoo Volunteer Serve Day 9:00 AM - 4:30 PM, Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL, 36110 Volunteer groups gather to accomplish several tasks including landscaping, trimming bushes, etc. Volunteers ages 12-16 years old must be accompanied by a parent / legal guardian or a designated group chaperone. Volunteers under the age of 19 must obtain parent / legal guardian permission.

(334) 625-4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com Flimp Festival (Free) 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Dr. Montgomery, AL, 36117 This annual event is perfect for all ages to enjoy the whimsi-

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cal sights and sounds in the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden.

(334) 625-4333 www.mmfa.org AWF Wild Came Cook Off ($40 presale) 5:00 PM The AMP at Lake Martin, 8878 Kowliga Rd. Eclectic, AL, 36024 Get your team together or just go to enjoy the food. Tickets go up to $50 at the door.

Youth under 15 are free. www.russellcrossroads.com/events.html Biscuits Marvel’s Defenders of the Diamond Night ($9-15) 6:05 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Come dressed as your favorite Marvel Super Hero and join us for Marvel’s Defenders of the Diamond Night! The Biscuits team will be wearing Captain America jerseys that will be auctioned off during the game! And stick around for a post-game MAX Fireworks Show! www.milb.com/montgomery A Lesson Before Dying ($10-20) Details May 5.

Sunday May 8

Mother’s Day at the Zoo 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Blvd.

Montgomery, AL, 36110 All moms receive free admission today!

(334) 625-4900 montgomeryzoo.com

Biscuits Kids Kitchen Set Giveaway ($9-15) 3:30 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 The first 500 kids 14 & under will go home with a toy kitchen set pres. by Baptist Health!

Bring your leashed 4-legged best friend out to Riverwalk for some Biscuits baseball! 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. www.milb.com/montgomery A Lesson Before Dying ($10-20) Details May 5.

Tuesday May 10

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 2nd Tuesday Programs (free) 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Dr. Montgomery, AL, 36117 The MMFA is open late from 5 to 9 PM on the second Tuesday of each month. Enjoy all of the things that make the Museum great including special events and programs.

(334) 625-4333 www.mmfa.org Mindfulness Inspires (free) 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Dr. Montgomery , AL, 36117 Spotlighting May as Mental Health Awareness Month, the MMFA’s Inspires series will feature local writers reading aloud works created in response to The Yellow Wallpaper.

(334) 625-4333 www.mmfa.org

Friday May 13

Art and the Automobile: Cocktail Party and Silent Auction ($60) 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM, Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Dr. Montgomery, AL, 36117 The Museum will host an evening in the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden featuring some of the most

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FamilyCalendar exquisite, vintage, and state-of-the-art cars in Montgomery and the surrounding areas. If you’re a car enthusiast, collector, or simply a lover of automobile design, then plan to join this year’s Spring fundraiser.

Tickets are $60 per person.

(334) 625-4333 www.mmfa.org

person. You must preregister at the Doster Community Center. Limited space available. For more info call 595-0800. Booth rental: 12x15 booths $15.00; 10x10 booths $10.00 Friday, May 13 set up 1 - 7pm. Sale Saturday, May 14 from 6am-noon.

(334) 595-0800 www.prattvilleal.gov/

Holtville High Bulldog Bistro ($15) 5:00 PM and 6:30 PM Holtville High School, 10425 Holtville Rd. Deatsville, AL, 36022 Come out and help support the culinary program at the Holtville High Bulldog Bistro. To make reservations, just email Chef Beau at beau.myers@elmoreco.com www.elmoreautauganews.com/2021/10/26/holtvillehigh-school-friday-night-dinners-help-students-thrivetry-it-out-this-friday/

Kershaw Yard Sale and Craft Fair (free) 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Kershaw YMCA, 2229 West Fairview Ave. Montgomery, AL, 36105 Yard sale and craft fair. Registration ends of May 12 for those wanting to partcipate. Contact Eleanor Thomas ethomas@ ymcamontgomery.org.

(334) 832-8005 www.ymcamontgomery.org/specialevents/

Prattville City Fest ($2) Historic Downtown Prattville, Prattville, AL, 36067 34th annual celebration of Prattville presented by Prattville Baptist Hospital. Friday Opening Ceremonies at 5:45pm and Free Concert at 6:00pm - come early bring your blankets, chairs and enjoy a fun evening of entertainment in historic Downtown Prattville. Saturday - gates open at 9:00am. Put on your walking shoes and join in on fun for the entire family. Visit our many local business vendors, enjoy fun area for the kids, listent to live music and more! Children age 5 and under are free. Gates close at 4pm. Cash is preferred. www.prattvillecityfest.com

Saturday May 14

Gigantic Flea Market (free) 6:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Doster Community Center, 424 S. Northington Street Prattville, AL, 36067 Gigantic Flea Market One booth per household. One booth per

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Montgomery Jubliee Run 9:30 AM Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus ST Montgomery, AL, 36104 The 43rd year of the Jubilee 8K Run, there will be a 2-mile run in honor of Peggy McLendon Lanier. We have added walk division to the Peggy Lanier Memorial 2 mile to encourage all levels of fitness! Come join the excitement of Montgomery’s longest-standing competitive running event!

(334) 262-0013 www.visitingmontgomery.com/calendar/event/montgomery-jubilee-8k-and-2-mile-runs-walk Dino Dig at the Zoo ($28 per child (4-12) or $20 zoo member ) 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Montgomery Zoo,

2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL, 36110 Dino Dig is an educational program with hands-on expe-

ACA CAMP EAGLE 2022 gle camp ea

Come join us this summer for 8 weeks filled with fun activities for your children! Camp Eagle is for children entering into grades 1st-6th!

rience and fun geared for boys and girls aged 4-10 years old. (Fee for accompanying adults (13 years old and older): $17, Montgomery Zoo members: FREE (334) 625-4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com 10th Annual Crawfish Boil Benefitting the PRS Arts and Athletics 11:00 AM Century Church, 37 Bridge St. Pike Road, AL, 36064 There will be over 5000 LBS of crawfish, kid friend activities, multiple bands, and awesome outdoor fun for all ages.

All the proceeds go to support Pike Road Schools Arts and Athletics. Visit pikeroadpatriotfund.com for tickets.

Alabama Nature Center Backyard Campout

($5) 2:00PM Saturday - 9:00 AM Sunday , Alabama

Nature Center, 3030 Lanark Rd. Millbrook , AL, 36054 Come spend the night at the Alabama Nature Center’s 7th Annual backyard campout!

Guests will need to bring their own camping supplies and it will be Tent Only.

(334) 285-4550 www.alabamawildlife.org Prattville City Fest ($2) Details May 13.

Sunday May 15

Music in May at The Waters (free) Details May 1.

Come join us this summer for 10 weeks filled with fun activities for your children!

The NEST Summer Camp is for children entering into grades K3-K5!

scan the qr codes for more information and to register today! nest camp 71

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Cruisin’ with the Top Down - Prattville Cruise In Car Show (free) Historic Downtown Prattville, Prattville, AL, 36067 Convertibles of all makes and models will be featured at the Prattville Cruise In Car Show on May 15 in Downtown Prattville; however, other vehicles are welcome. There will be live music, great cars, and food vendors. There is no charge to enter a car, but the car must be registered prior to the event.

(334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov/

Friday on the Green (free) Details May 6.

Wednesday May 18

Saturday May 21

Blippi, The Musical 6:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Join Blippi on his newest adventure, live on stage!

The whole family will have fun, dancing, singing and meeeting new friends. Get your tickets now.

(334) 481-5100 www.blippithemusical.com/ Biscuits Military Wednesday ($9-15) 6:35 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Active, veteran, and retired military personnel with a military ID will receive admission, food, and drink discounts throughout the stadium! www.milb.com/montgomery

Thursday May 19

Friends and Newcomers Club of Prattville, Millbrook and area 9:30 AM Bradford Branch YMCA, 972 McQueen Smith Rd. S. Prattville, AL, 36066 The installation of elected officers and year end reports are on the agenda. All ladies are welcome to come see what it’s all about.

Contact Nancy at 334-414-8185 (334) 414-8185 www.friendsandnewcomers.org Food for Thought (free) 12:00 PM Alabama Department of History and Archives, 624 Washington Ave. Montgomery, AL, 36130 Alabama history lunchtime lecture series, Food for Thought are held on the third Thursday of every month at 12:00 pm CT. Programs are presented both in-person at the ADAH and online via the ADAH’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. This month Paul M. Pruitt Jr. will present The Education of Julia Tutwiler: Training for Leadership.

(334) 242-4435 www.archives.alabama.gov/ City of Wetumpka Farmers Market (free) 4:00 PM - 7:00 PM, 304 E. Coosa Street, 304 E. Coosa Street Wetumpka, AL, 36092 City of Wetumpka Farmers Market Season will run every Thursday starting May 19th - August 25th. www.facebook.com/City-of-Wetumpka-Farmers-Market-110897704513587 Biscuits 80s T-shirt Giveaway ($9-15) 6:35 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Get here early to snag an 80s-themed t-shirt given out to the first 1,000 fans 15 & older! www.milb.com/montgomery

Friday May 20

Art Walk Wetumpka (free) 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Historic Downtown Wetumpka, Wetumpka, AL, 36092 Take a stroll through the streets of downtown Wetumpka and shop from talented local artists. Third Friday of the month, April to November. www.mainstreetwetumpka.org/events/2022/4/15/artwalk-wetumpka

River Region Parents I May 2022

Bisuits 80s Music Night ($9-15) 6:35 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 Can’t get enough 80s music? Well this is the night for you! From the moment the gates open until the final pitch, 80s music is the only thing you’ll hear! www.milb.com/montgomery

National Kids to Parks Day/Touch A Truck/ Mayors Bike Ride 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Pratt Park, 460 Doster Rd. Prattville, AL, 36067 Get ready for a family fun day as Prattville celebrates National Kids to Park Day. Pratt Park will be alive with the sounds of horns blowing, motors racing and sirens blaring with the start of the annual Touch-A-Truck celebration.Register to ride your bicycle with your family and friends, along with Mayor Bill Gillespie, Jr., from Upper Kingston Park to the Touch-A-Truck event.

(334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov/ Biscuits 80s Pop Culture Night & MAX Fireworks ($9-15) 6:05 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 80s Weekend rolls on as we rock out during 80s Pop Culture Night! Stick around after the game for an 80s-themed post-game MAX Fireworks Show! www.milb.com/montgomery Chicago 7:30 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 MPAC Live Presents Chicago, the highest charting American band in Billboard Magazine’s Top 123 Artists of All Time.

(334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org

Sunday May 22

Hampstead Food Truck Takeover 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Hampstead Town Center, 5272 Hampstead High St. Montgomery, AL, 36116 Hampstead presents Spring Food Truck Takeover events with several new food trucks making their debute! Bring your friends/family, enjoy live music and delicious food from ten trucks. www.visitingmontgomery.com Biscuits Kids 80s Headband Giveaway ($9-15) 3:30 PM Riverwalk Stadium, 200 Coosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 The first 500 kids 14 & under will go home with an 80s-themed headband giveaway pres.

by Kona Ice! www.milb.com/montgomery Music in May at The Waters (free) Details May 1.

Thursday May 26

Early Explorers ($5 per child/Adults free) 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Alabama Nature Center, 3030 Lanark Rd. Millbrook , AL, 36054 Alabama Nature Center’s monthly preschool program best for children unter 8.

(334) 285-4550 www.alabamawildlife.org The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 7:30 PM Wetumpka Depot, 300 South Main St.

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Wetumpka, AL, 36092 This award-winning play has won acclaim on Broadway, in film and as a TV movie.

Enjoy an evening filled with humor and heart.

(334) 868-1440 www.wetumpkadepot.com

Friday May 27

RXR Music Fest: Memorial Day Weekend (free) 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM, Russell Crossroads on the Town Green, 19 Russell Farms Rd. Alexander City, AL, 35010 RXR Fest at Russell Crossroads brings well known plus up-andcoming regional musicians to the Green Stage for a weekend of great music. Bring your lawn chairs or blanket, cooler, family and friends, and even your pet – on a leash, please. It’s all free and the music is always great! www.russellcrossroads.com/events.html The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 7:30 PM Details May 26.

Masters Water Ski and Wakeboard Tournament Robin Lake Beach at Callaway Gardens, 17617 US-27 Pine Mountain , GA, 31822 Memorial Day Weekend Festival features the 62nd Nautique Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament and a host of other fun attractions at Robin Lake Beach including live music, beach activities, kids zones, great food, drink specials, and much more.

(844) 512-3826 www.callawaygardens.com

Saturday May 28

RXR Music Fest: Memorial Day Weekend (free) 6:30 PM - 9:30 PM, Details May 27.

The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 7:30 PM Details May 26.

Masters Water Ski and Wakeboard Tournament Details May 27.

Sunday May 29

Exhibition on Screen: Pissarro: Father of Impressionism ($12) 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Capri Theatre, 1045 Fairview Ave. Montgomery, AL, 36106 These showings of films by Exhibition on Screen are presented at the Capri Theatre and accompanied by introductions from MMFA staff, offering audiences fully enriched arts experiences. (334) 625-4333 www.mmfa.org Masters Water Ski and Wakeboard Tournament Details May 27.

Monday May 30

Retro Pool Party ($1) 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Pratt Pool, 460 Doster Rd. Prattville, AL, 36067 This annual event returns with $1.00 per person pricing that includes entry, hotdog and drink (while quantities last). Extra cost for additional hotdogs and drinks. (Weather permitting.)

(334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov/

Thursday June 2

The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 7:30 PM Details May 26.

With a Little Help from My Friends, Art Exhibit Opening, Featuring Work by Barbara Simpson (free) Creative Arts Center and Gallery, 342 S. Chestnut St. Prattville, AL, 36067 This exhibit features

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FamilyCalendar new works by local artist Barbara Simpson, and a collection of works by local and regional artists from Simpson’s private collection. The exhibit is family friendly and open to the public during regular gallery hours on Friday and Saturday from 10am-2pm and on Sundays from 1-4pm, or by appointment through the Cultural Arts Office at 334-595-0850.

(334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov/

Sunday June 5

The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 2:00 PM Details May 26.

The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 7:30 PM Details May 26.

Billy Bob Thornton and The Boxmasters 7:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa St. Montgomery, AL, 36104 The Boxmasters have recorded an impressive and diverse catalogue of music that touches on their love of a wide array of influences, but most importantly, the rock and roll of the 1960’s.

(334) 481-5100 www.mpaconline.org

Saturday June 4

Monday June 6

Friday June 3

Prattville Farmer’s Market 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM, The Grove on Doster Road, 322 Doster Rd. Prattville, AL, 36067 7am-12noon. There will be local and regional growers, bakers and makers, special giveaways, fun activities, a guest chef, and live music. Every Saturday from 7am-12 noon through August 27.

(334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov/ Kayak Trail Fun Run 10:00 AM Creek Walk behind City Hall, Prattville, AL, 36067 Come take an exciting ride down the Autauga Creek. Lots of beautiful sites, bamboo, waterfalls and beautiful foliage. You must provide your own equipment, (canoe, kayak, paddleboard, life jackets, sunglasses, drinking water, sunblock etc.). No glass or alcoholic beverages allowed. A bus will be waiting to shuttle you back (no charge) to the starting point. The last shuttle will leave the creek walk area at 9:45am.

(334) 595-0850 www.prattvilleal.gov/ The Trip to Bountiful ($15.00) 7:30 PM Details May 26.

Swim Lessons at Pratt Pool ($50) Pratt Pool, 460 Doster Rd. Prattville , AL, 36067 Swim lessons for ages 3 & up. Space is limited, sign your child up now. There will be no refunds once a session begins. Days lost to inclement weather will not be made up. 1st Session: June 6 – 17; 2nd Session: June 20 – July 1; 3rd Session: July 11 - 22 (334) 595-0800 www.prattvilleal.gov/

Multiple Days Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays thru May 28

Eddie Floyd Memorabilia Exhibit (free) Creative Arts Center and Gallery, 342 S. Chestnut St. Prattville, AL, 36067 The Creative Arts Center and Gallery will host a free exhibit of Eddie Floyd and other Alabama Music memorabilia from April 15-May 29. This exhibit includes photographs, awards, and other memorabilia courtesy of Mr. Eddie Floyd. The

gallery is open Fridays and Saturdays 10am-2pm and Sundays 1-4pm.

(334) 595-0852 www.prattvilleal.gov/

Daily May 24-June 26

The Marvelous Wonderettes Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 1 Festival Dr. Montgomery, AL, 36117 This smash Off-Broadway hit takes us to the 1958 Springfield High School prom, where we meet and learn about the lives and loves of four girls with hopes and dreams as big as their crinoline skirts. When the Wonderettes reunite to perform at their 10-year reunion, we learn about the highs and lows the girls have experienced in the past decade.

Featuring more than 30 classic 50s and 60s hits.

(334) 271-5353 www.asf.net

May 20 June 2

Downton Abbey: A New Era Capri Theatre, 1045 Fairview Ave. Montgomery, AL, 36106 They’re back and going on a big adventure in the South of France.

(334) 462-4858 www.capritheatre.org/

Please send calendar info to editor@riverregionparents.com.

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Pink and Pearls For Girls Hosts Annual Explosion Pink and Pearls For Girls hosted its 4th Annual Girls and Women Explosion: Conference and Health Expo in celebration of International Women’s Month. The day was full of women inspiring and uplifting young ladies along with recreational activities, performances, and speakers.

Thank you to the Chisholm Community for co-hosting and providing all of the recreational activities.

River Region Parents I May 2022

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection Wins Big

TSDC had an awesome weekend at Inspire National Dance Competition.

The entire studio did amazing with one Crystal Diamond award (Selena Knighton’s tap solo), 32 Diamond awards and five Sapphire awards (equivalent to Platinum Elite, Platinum, High Gold in other competitions). They also received multiple first place awards, overall placements, and judges awards including Most Entertaining, Most Personality and two prop awards! Elly Robinson won the Miss Inspire award for recreational teen division and the photogenic award. TSDC has 32 dancers in our DC Strutters competition team.

We also want to congratulate the TSDC Jr. team for a Diamond award and 2nd place overall in tap at Inspire Dance Competition! Their dance was to Rhythm Nation!

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highly disappointed. I could not find an occupation that would pay me my worth. One night my mom called me and asked if I could create an invoice for her. I created the invoice in less than 10 minutes and emailed it to her with the words, “You should be paying me to create these invoices for you.” And she replied, “I think other people should be paying you to do things like this for them.”

And the light bulb came on! I think JAMM was birthed that night.

I started making a list of all my Facebook friends who had businesses, and I jumped into their inboxes to pitch my services.

RRP: What is your proudest mom moment and why?

Ashley Jackson

AJ: My proudest mom moment comes every day when I see those smiles on the kids’ faces. When I can lay down for the night and count my blessings and think back through my day, nothing outweighs interaction and conversation with them.

RRP: You served 11 years in the military. Thank you for your service. How did your military experience help bridge the gap towards being a mompreneur, helping other veteran women through your business?

RRP: Some might call you a ‘Jane of all Trades’. Not only are you a mom and wife, but also a businesswoman. You’re an entrepreneur, author, business manager, and life + business coach. How do you balance it all?

AJ: When I began on the path to being a business coach and helping other veteran women start businesses, it was a no-brainer.

When I established JAMM, I had to begin an entire mindset shift.

As a soldier, I was given instructions on who, what, when, and where. Being my own boss, I had to rely on my expertise, I had to make up my procedures/policies, and I had no one to say, “Ashley, this is what we’re focusing on today.” The biggest shift for me was coming from under the command and walking into my own.

AJ: Seriously, I have to give praises where they are due. God gives me strength. God and a Loaded Tea from MGM Nutrition or Capital City Nutrition get me through the day. I wear a lot of hats in my family. I’m honored that my family values me. The way that I balance is by giving myself grace and setting boundaries.

RRP: When you’re not in mommy mode with your kiddos or business mode, what are some hobbies that you enjoy during your me-time?

AJ: I like to enjoy long massages at Wind Creek Casino Wetumpka, a quiet car ride to walk the aisles of Target, and trips to Starbucks. I also enjoy reading and being involved in my local community.

RRP: You have two children: Madison (12) and Maddox (4). With their age difference, what challenges have you faced?

RRP: As a certified John Maxwell Coach, what is one piece of advice that you can provide other moms who might be looking to venture out and start their own business?

AJ: If I had to think of one, I would say the difference in their personalities. One wants to cuddle, and one rarely wants to be bothered. As Maddox comes into his own little person, the parenting style I adopted with Maddie may have to be tweaked. As parents, sometimes I think we often try to put kids in one box. At least I did, especially with Maddie. I had the picture-perfect idea of having a girl and dressing her in all pink, with pretty bows, tea parties, etc.

She doesn’t like pink, she didn’t like bows (I still made her wear them), and let’s not mention a tea party. But you know what, I’m okay with it. I’ve learned as a parent that sometimes our way may not be the best, and that’s okay.

AJ: Don’t be so hard on yourself, and give yourself grace. You’re doing an amazing job! When you take your strides and live in your purpose, you’ll begin to develop something valuable. The world awaits your gifts and talents; don’t keep them waiting too long.

RRP: As a millennial mom who does (all the things), how have your responsibilities helped you conquer motherhood?

AJ: Being a mom is challenging, but I’ve become a better communicator, especially with Maddie. I don’t look at things as rigidly as my mom and grandmother did. I may extend more grace and flexibility because of my own experiences. We can be working moms, stay-at-home moms, work-at-home moms, and business owners.

RRP: What was the inspiration behind founding your business JAMM Resources LLC. in 2017?

AJ: The inspiration behind JAMM Resources came when I decided to leave my military career behind in 2017. While in the military, I obtained my Bachelor’s and specialized administrative experience, but when I decided to get out and search the civilian sector, I was

River Region Parents I May 2022

Ashley Jackson is a native of Millbrook and grew up and attended school in Montgomery. She currently lives in Prattville, AL.

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CHAMPIONS OF HONOR, RESILIENCE & THE JUNGLE GYM [ PORTRAIT OF A GRADUATE—THE BEGINNING ]

What does an MA graduate look like?

Diverse in every way, yet sharing surprisingly similar qualities.

As early as kindergarten, The Montgomery Academy looks ahead to the kind of qualities a young adult needs to succeed.

Programs are structured and experiences are designed around creating life-long learners who challenge themselves.

Co-curricular involvement is planned to champion honor, ethics, diversity, and service.

We do all this. But if you ask a third grader what they did in school today, they’ll probably tell you about the amazing playground.

Th e M o n t g o m e r y A c a d e m y The Pursuit of Excellence in K-12 Education Contact Rachael Gallagher, admissions@montgomeryacademy.org | 334.272.8210 | montgomeryacademy.org 1

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