River Region Parents Mar 2021 - Summer Camp Issue

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• It’s safe, simple, and free of charge.

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

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

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

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EDUCATION is more than YO U K N OW

Experiences in the classroom, moments in the spotlight, and lessons on the field work together at Saint James to educate the whole child, develop young men and women of character, and prepare students for life.

Pre-K3−12th Grade

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Saint James School

334-273-3021 or STJweb.org

PREPARING STUDENTS FOR LIFE Call today for more information on tuition assistance and affording a Saint James education for your child.

Academic support for English Language Learners available. Saint James School admits students of any religion, race, gender, creed, color, national, and ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs, and activities generally accorded or made available to students at the school.

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River Region Parents I March 2021

March2021 50

Volume 26 Number 3

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

14 Montgomery Education Matters

by Dr. Ann Roy Moore, Interim Superintendent

Choosing Day Camp

So many options...which is best for your child?

Considering Camp?

Seven benefits for you and your child.

36 Pike Road Education Matters

by Superintendent Charles Ledbetter, Ed.D.

44 Elmore Education Matters

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by Superintendent Richard Dennis

48 Unleashing Your Potential

by Keon Addison

52 Dinner’s Ready

by Kimberley Carter Spivey

Summer Camp Guide Day, residential, sports camps and more!

Squash Sibling Rivalry Tips to help your kids get along and work out their differences.

66 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Departments On The Cover From left to right: Sam Moore (10), son of Dale and Cathy Moore; Kennan Mccarthy (12), son of Patrick and Katie Beth McCarthy; and Ryder Summers (9), son of Michael and Valerie Summers. All three boys attend Alabama Christian Academy and enjoy Faulkner University Baseball Camps in summer and throughout the year!

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12 Teacher of the Month 16 School Bits 68 Grading the Movies 76 Mom to Mom

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Editor’sNote

Parents

Don’t we all need some good news these days? Well, I’ve got some for you! Summer camps are back for 2021!

I don’t know about you, but I was pretty disappointed last year when so many summer camps had to cancel their sessions due to COVID-19. Our daughter was signed up for a week at a nearby overnight camp, but was unable to attend. Also, many local day camps either had to cancel or limit their amount of attendees. I’m sure you had similar situations with your kids not being able to experience the fun that summer camps offer. Now that we’ve made progress at getting the pandemic under some level of control, and understand better how to protect ourselves and our kids, camps are opening back up for spring break and summer 2021. And our Summer Camp Issue will help you in the planning, from choosing a camp that best fits your child to getting them signed up.

If you feel your child is ready to experience sleeping away from home for a few days, be sure to check out Mary Ann Blair’s article, 7 Reasons Parents Should Consider Sending Their Child to Camp. While the thought may make you a little (or a lot) nervous, there are so many benefits to overnight camp for kids. If it gives you any comfort, we have sent ours to camp as early as age 5 for a few nights, and guess what? When we get there to pick them up they are excited to see us, but then ask if we can leave them there for another week. Go figure! Also, many camps take pictures of campers throughout the week so parents can go online and see their child having fun daily. That’s a big comfort to a nervous mom or dad.

If overnight camp isn’t a possibility for your family yet, we haven’t left you out!

Local day camps will be up and running this summer, offering options for the artistic child to the athletic child and everything in between. Read Christa Hines’ advice in Choosing the Right Day Camp For Your Child and then flip over to our 2021 Summer Camp Guide. Here you will find hundreds of day and overnight camp options from which to choose. Make it a fun activity by sitting down with your kids to peruse the guide and let them highlight the camps that catch their eye. They will love helping you plan some fun for their summer. We’ve also included a handful of spring break camps at the end of the guide, so don’t miss those and sign up soon!

We’ve finally made it through the winter! And a COVID winter at that. March has us welcoming warmer weather and more hours of daylight (set those clocks forward on March 14), so let’s get outdoors, soak up some much needed vitamin D and play!

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

Founder Marty Watson (1950-2006) Editor DeAnne Watson editor@riverregionparents.com

Associate Editor Alison Rouse Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Keon Addison Katie Blair Mary Ann Blair Richard Dennis Christa Melynk Hines Dr. Charles Ledbetter Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA 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

editor@riverregionparents.com River Region Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. River Region Parents is copyrighted 2021 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in River Region Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

River Region Parents I March 2021

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by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

OVEREMPHASIZE THE GOOD THEY DO! When I started counseling in 2005, I swore I would NEVER work with children. At that time, I had toddlers at home and savored adult only conversation. The older I get, the more boring adults become. Adults sit still while talking about politics, food, and problems. Kids talk best when moving, find tremendous joy in a simple card game, and tell me their deepest thoughts for a few M&Ms. Over the last few years I have been working more and more with children. Do you know what I have learned? That children say the wisest things. I have learned more about how to be a better parent, person, and professional by rolling cars across the floor with three-year-olds than I ever learned in a doctoral class. The wisdom and insight that comes from their little mouths has challenged everything I believed about family life.

Now, it is my pleasure to share with all of you the things your children want you to know.

The things you miss when you are busy just keeping your children fed, clothed, and alive.

River Region Parents I March 2021

In this month’s article, the one thing I want to share comes from a wise 9-year-old. He was having some problems with his parents and I asked him, “What do you want them to know?”

He said, “I want them to listen to me. Not just my words. I want them to see me and know me.” Let me translate what he was saying, “I want them to see the good things I do, not just the bad things.” Kids are that simple; they need you to overemphasize the good they do!

I learned this lesson in 2017. I went back to school to learn how to do a type of therapy called Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). My favorite thing about ABA is that it is grounded in positive reinforcement. When parents visit an ABA clinic, they always comment on how often they hear clapping, cheering, and phrases like “Great Job!”, “Good”, and “You are the best!” For two years, my counseling office was inside Great Leaps Learning Center (an excellent ABA clinic).

Every day of those two years, all I heard was the staff constantly praising the kids.

I heard this encouragement so much that it changed the way I talked to myself and

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others. It challenged my former approach, which was to make the most of every teachable moment. My most common phrases had been, “No, not that way”, “That is not right, try it again”, “You can do better than that”, “You just need to try harder” and “Let me just do it.” Now that I focus on overemphasizing the good, I am much happier and so is everyone around me.

Please learn from my mistakes and listen to the wisdom of a 9-year-old boy: Focus on the good things they do! Let me give you some very practical examples of how to use positive reinforcement to encourage what you actually want to see in your children.

• If your child will not/cannot sit still try having them sit still for 3 seconds and say, “Great job sitting still. I bet you can do it for 5 seconds now!” Instead of, “I don’t know what is wrong with you! Why can’t you just sit still?”

• If your child attempts to clean, but does not do it to your liking try, “Thank you so much!

You did a good job!” Then, the next time they start to clean, lovingly remind them to complete the part they forgot last time.

• If your child HATES homework try having them attempt only one problem at a time, praising them for their effort, and rewarding them with a small break before starting the next problem. Instead of constantly correcting and criticizing.

• If your child has behavior problems at school ask, “What did you do well today?”

Instead of, “Did you get in trouble?”

• If you have a whiny kid prompt them to ask in a non-whiny voice and do a happy dance when they do.

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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Priscilla Crommelin Ball, Executive Artistic Director Kyana Goodyear, School Director Curran Tellalian, Associate Artistic Director

Fairytale Baaet Camp June 7 - 11, July 12 - 16 Monday - Friday, 9am - 12pm

Ages 3 - 7

Dancers will learn about one fairytale ballet each week, meet characters of “Coppelia” the first week and of “Cinderella” the second week. Snacks will be provided.

Summer Dance Camp June 7 - 11, July 12 - 16

Monday - Friday, 1pm - 4pm

Ages 8 - 11

Dancers will attend daily Ballet and Jazz classes, have the opportunity to take classes in Ballet History, and learn about different classical ballets.

Snacks will be provided.

(334) 356-5460

alabamariverregionballet.com

Festival Plaza, 7981 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 9

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Local Theatre Updates

Pike Road Arts Center Presents It Isn’t Easy Being Green Art Show March 13-April 18 Pieces will be accepted March 6-12. Email patty@pikeroad.us to participate.

AUM Offers ACT Test Prep Classes

March 29-April 15 Learn ways to decrease test anxiety and increase your skills with the Reading/Language, Science and Math sections of the exam. *Students can attend class in-person or online using the Zoom web application. Masks are required for attending in-class sessions.* Classes meet Mondays through Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. Books will be provided at the first class meeting. Students may take the complete review ($309) to learn all subjects, or take a specific subject ($119). Call (334) 244-3804 or visit www.aum.edu/coned.

Complete Review: March 29-Apr. 15 ACT Language Review: March 29Apr. 1 ACT Math Review: April 5-8 ACT Science Review: April 12-15

Try Out New Local App Enjoy Landmarks’ new app, Xplore Old Alabama Town. Thanks to our friends with Time Looper, Landmarks is now able to present Old Alabama Town using augmented reality through the Xplore Old Alabama Town app, available for download in the Apple and Android Stores.

River Region Parents I March 2021

Zoo Weekend With a Twist

April 3, 10, 17 & 24 / 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

It’s like Zoo Weekend with a twist. In order to provide a safe and healthy environment for all our guests, Zoo Weekend is going to be held over four Saturdays in April. Guests will be LIMITED to 4,000 per Saturday. So purchase your tickets today!

Each Saturday will provide a slightly different experience. So come to one; or better yet, come to them all. You and your guests are guaranteed to have an awesome wildlife experience.

Each Saturday will provide: -- a festival-like environment, -- games and rides for the kids, -- live entertainment, -- animal presentations, -- wildlife attractions and encounters, -- train and sky lift rides, and -- tasty concessions.

Admission fees for the day are: -- Adults: $17 -- Children (ages 3-12 years old): $13 -- Toddlers (2 years old and younger) and Montgomery Zoo members: FREE (admission includes entry to the Zoo and Mann Museum) No daily admission discounts will be provided during Zoo Weekend(s). Also, no member GUEST PASSES will be eligible for admission during this special event. Zoo Weekend(s) is a spring fundraising event for the Zoo and its expansion.

For more info, please contact the Zoo at (334) 625-4900, zooinfo@montgomeryal.gov or montgomeryzoo.com.

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Get closer to the artistry of playwrights by joining Alabama Shakespeare Festival’s new “Play Club,” part of ASF Insights.

Read one or both scripts and participate in a live online seminar for each with an expert (actor/director) and a scholar on the playwright and material.

Cat On a Hot Tin Roof written

by Tennessee Williams will be led by Chase Bringardner & Topher Payne Mar. 11 @ 7 p.m.

Trouble In Mind written by Alice Childress will be led by Donnetta Lavinia Grays & Joy Vandervort-Cobb Mar. 25 @ 7 p.m.

Space is limited to just 40 members for each play, so register today! There is no cost to join, but members must commit to obtaining and reading the scripts.

Registration is online and first come, first served. Learn more at asf.net.

Millbrook Community Theatre presents The Nerd in person March 5-7. This is a side-splitting comedy written

by Larry Shue and directed by Stephanie McGuire. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com/.

Cloverdale Playhouse Virtual Classes for Kids

March 29-May 20 Acting classes are offered for kindergarten-3rd grade; 4th-7th grades; and 8th-12th grades. We’ll explore what it means to communicate, share and listen, develop characters, explore the core of the story, and develop the craft of acting.

For info about scholarships, call (334) 262-1530 or e-mail sarah.thornton@ cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

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Art Studio to Go

Montgomery Zoo Dino Dig Education Program

March 27 * 10 a.m.-noon Dino Dig is an educational program with hands-on experience and fun. It is geared for boys and girls aged 4-10 years old. It includes a classroom lesson plan, real dig time (getting dirty), live animal presentations, and everyone leaves with a take-home, keepsake goody bag.

Advanced reservations required.

All participants must be registered no later than March 26 @ noon. For more info, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www. montgomeryzoo.com/.

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts offers free art-making fun kits for the whole family.

On March 13, you can decorate a paper hat using the materials provided. To request a kit for your family, complete the online registration link at mmfa.org/ event/studio-to-go-paper-hats/. Kits will be available for curbside pick-up at the Museum’s gatehouse to the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden entrance on March 13 or 14.

On March 23, each Spring Break kit will include supplies and instructions for several activities. To request a kit for your family, complete the registration link at mmfa.org/event/studio-to-go-springbreak/. Kits will be available for curbside pick-up on March 23.

For more info, call (334) 625-4333 or visit mmfa.org.

Sonshine Soccer Registration Open Now

Registration is open for Sonshine Soccer at Frazer through March 16. League is for boys and girls ages 4-12. Practices will be Tuesday or Thursday evenings starting April 6. Games are played April 19-May 17 on Monday evenings (one on Saturday morning). Cost per child is $55 for registration, plus $25 for a game jersey (may reuse jersey if the child played last year). Open to the community. Register in the Frazer UMC Activity Center or online at frazer.church/connect/sports-and-fitness.

Volunteer coaches are also needed.

Training will be provided.

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ADT Presents Live Performance March 5-7

Back by popular demand, the Alabama Dance Theatre presents Ballet’s Greatest Hits and World Premieres on Friday, March 5, at 7 p.m.; Saturday, March 6, at 2 p.m.; and Sunday, March 7, at 2 p.m. at Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts. Performance tickets are $15-$30. Tickets go on sale starting February 8. For info, call (334) 625-2590 or visit alabamadancetheatre.com.

Photo by David Robertson, Jr.

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Whitney Sheridan Prattville Christian Academy

“At the beginning of the year I had a student who tested below average in reading. She has worked SO hard every single day. In the middle of the year she tested above average! Her results blew me away!”

“I think it is important for your students to like you. They will absorb more in the classroom when they are comfortable and feel loved. One little boy was very timid around me for a few months. Then one day he came up out of nowhere and gave me a hug. I squeezed him and told him how much I loved him. He said, ‘That is the first time I’ve ever hugged you!’ He gives me hugs all the time now.”

It is easy to see why Mrs. Sheridan was nominated and chosen as this month’s winner.

Nominated by Brenda Drinkard and Meagan Boutin, Sheridan says that she is honored to have been chosen.

“This nomination brought tears to my eyes. I feel so grateful for this opportunity.”

For Prattville Christian Academy 2nd Grade Teacher Whitney Sheridan, it’s all about the “lightbulb moments”, when a student grasps a concept that has been introduced in the classroom.

“I celebrate every single time a student has a ‘lightbulb moment’. In my mind, every piece of success should be celebrated,” said the teacher who is in her fourth year at PCA. “I am talking about singing a song, dancing on a table, and doing a cartwheel in my room kind of celebration. Every child arrives at my door on the first day of school with a different background, reading level, and road to success. I want each and every one of my students to feel like they made progress in my room. It might not be the same success, but the celebration will be!”

Sheridan credits her own fifth grade teacher for inspiring her to pursue a career in education.

“I was a shy, quiet little girl. Mrs. Hilton left a mark on my heart that will be with me forever. She made learning fun. More importantly, she gave me the confidence to learn out loud. I knew from that year on that I wanted to be a teacher just like her.”

Sheridan also shared two of her favorite teaching moments from this year that were a result of seeing a student’s reading level soar and building a relationship with a student who had been quite shy.

River Region Parents I March 2021

Whitney Sheridan is a graduate of Troy University in Troy, Alabama, where she received her Bachelors of Science in Elementary Education. She has been married to her husband, Cass, for almost 9 years. They are parents to two daughters: SaraFranklin, 5; AnnaCharles, 2. They have three dogs and enjoy spending time on their farm, Sunrise Cattle Company, as well as traveling to the lake and beach.

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Connect with us.

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

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

MyGuardianCU.com

334.244.9999

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Moving Forward This Spring It’s been nearly a year since COVID-19 disrupted our normal way of life. Since then, we have learned and survived so many challenges related to the pandemic. Our students and educators have been resilient and are still pushing forward. We have modified our way of teaching, our way of doing our normal school-based activities, and adjusted our goal expectations as a school system. As superintendent of Montgomery Public Schools (MPS), we’re looking forward to jump-starting the next school year. With the help of our parents and community, we are preparing our students for the upcoming year with several learning opportunities over the next couple of months.

Starting this summer, MPS students will have the opportunity to participate in learn-

River Region Parents I March 2021

ing camps that will help reinforce learning standards. Our core curriculum team will provide our students lessons that will not only prepare them for the upcoming school year, but ensure they have mastered the standards in their previous learning year. In the educational space, we like to call this effective learning strategy “double-dosing”.

With the double-dosing learning opportunities, we still need the invested help of our parents. There are several ways to help keep students engaged as we continue to power through this academic year. As a former kindergarten teacher, I want to encourage our parents to read to their children or have their older children read every day. MPS has numerous reading activities for students through their Clever accounts.

Additionally, parents, please continue to engage with your child’s teacher(s). This is a great time to assess where your child is and what’s needed to help them end the school year successfully. I understand COVID-19 has presented several obstacles and we have not had our typical parent-teacher conferences, however, please continue to reach out virtu-

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ally and stay in touch with our teachers. Our teachers and administrators look forward to hearing from parents. Also, feel free to reach out to me when necessary.

Finally, as we prepare for the last days of this school year, take time to enjoy your Spring Break. I encourage you to find safe opportunities to explore activities that reinforce some of the things your children are learning in the classroom. If you’re not traveling due to the pandemic, encourage your student to safely surf the web and explore other regions of the country or world. I’ve shared this tip before, but maybe you’ll find joy in trying a new recipe from another part of the world. Whatever you and your children explore this Spring Break, let’s all enjoy it and remember we’re moving forward together.

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

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For our 20th anniversary, the Walk of Life has been re-imagined to celebrate the amazing passion and talents of you...our incredible participants! We know times remain uncertain and many of you are still – and will be for the foreseeable future – hesitant to gather in larger groups.

But the pandemic will not stop us from celebrating survivors and remembering those who’ve lost their battle with breast cancer!

This year, participate in the Walk of Life YOUR WAY! Join us by doing something you love: ♥ ♥

♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥

Walk or run a 5k Walk “The Loop” in Downtown Montgomery April 24 or 25 Hold a virtual dance contest Ride your bike Create a neighborhood scavenger hunt Draw sidewalk chalk art Make masks Ride your motorcycle Teach yoga to friends Whatever you love to do!

YOU decide how you’ll participate this year!

Visit WalkofLife2021.org today!

Be safe, have fun and feel amazing by helping more women access breast cancer screenings!

The Walk of Life raises awareness and funds to fight breast cancer in Alabama.

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Montgomery County Schools

Catholic Holds National Honor Society Inductions

Montgomery Catholic is proud to announce 28 new inductees into the Loretto Chapter of the National Honor Society. The senior inductees are Matthew Barranco and Cacey Williams. The junior inductees are Catherine Aaron, Jamarion Augustus, Javen Augustus, Wesley Clarke, Cecelia Crawford, Samantha Day, Carissa Gilbert, Ailish Gilbert, Angeles Gonzalez-Ansaldi, Mallory Hildebrand, Emily Holston, Zachary Izer, Layne Jordan, Shannon Kille, Christopher Lathram, Aniya Lowery, Maynard Marlow, Ella Newell, William Noell, Julienne Pharrams, Matthew Reardon, Gibby Souriya, Jacob Talbot, Maggie Turner, Alex Wieser and Hart Yost. These outstanding students join the 28 current members of the Loretto Chapter of the National Honor Society. NHS members must achieve a cumulative GPA of 3.75 or higher.

MA Students Named National Merit Finalists

Abby Baird and Gradyn Holbrook have been named Finalists in the 66th annual National Merit Scholarship Program.

These academically talented students have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 7,600 National Merit Scholarships worth more than $30 million that will be offered this spring. More than 1.5 million juniors in about 21,000 high schools entered the 2021 National Merit Scholarship Program by taking the 2019 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test.

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

River Region Parents I March 2021

Saint James Celebrates Learning Milestones

The week of January 25 marked several milestones in the learning of students at Saint James School. Several classes celebrated that they are 100 days smarter for the school year 2020-21. For the fifth-graders, their education has brought them to their 1,000th day of learning! Both milestones recognize the growth of students and their pursuit of education.

The K5 students celebrated by many activities including making cup towers with 100 cups, counting 100 Froot Loops, and creating art. The Pre-K4 students celebrated on January 29 by dressing up as centenarians (100-year-old people).

The fifth-grade classes used the number 1000 to create artwork, group games involving numbers that add to 1000, a math problem with the solution equaling 1000, “things I’ve been told 1000 times” writing and Pictionary game, a fun snack, and T-shirts to wear.

To add to the week’s fun, the first-grade class celebrated 101 Days of First Grade Fun. They did activities which stemmed from the number 101, including dressing up as one of the 101 Dalmatians.

The celebrations were a great way to foster a love of learning in the younger students on the Saint James campus!

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Montgomery County Schools

JD High Government Club Wins in Mock Trial

The Jeff Davis High Youth in Government Club showed its courtroom prowess at a recent competition. The team competed in the YMCA mock trial competition against two Hoover teams and Montgomery Academy. The JD squad came away with two wins and one loss, which was against Spain Park.

Eastwood’s ThirdGraders Study Spiders

As a part of their science curriculum, Eastwood Christian School third-graders learn all about spiders. To learn the spiders’ body parts, they make models from doughnuts. Who knew spiders could be so delicious?!

Join our online summer camp so your dyslexic learner will shine all year long!

$400 for 6 weeks of daily small group virtual reading instruction (1-hr) using Neuhaus Basic Language Skills Grades 2 thru 8 Sign Up Now at aldyslexiavillage.com River Region Parents I March 2021

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TEA Academy Observes Black History Month

February is Black History Month, and T.E.A. Christian Academy took full advantage of this opportunity to join in the celebration. Students were assigned to report on a black history maker every school day in the month of February. Their reports included information on the person’s life, the contribution he or she made, and their impact on society. At a Black History program on February 25, the students shared their reports, which made this an enlightening, as well as informative event.

While every Black History Month is important, the goal was for students to learn that history is made every day, and there is room for them to make their impact on the world as well. The students at TEA Academy are being equipped with the attributes necessary so, when the opportunity presents itself, they too can become a black history maker, and make their mark in the world.

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

100 Days at ECA

Evangel Christian Academy’s elementary classes recently celebrated the 100th day of school. The children participated in several activities that highlighted the number 100. Many students dressed up to look like they were 100 years old.

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Montgomery County Schools

ACA Student Coordinates Blood Drive

As part of completing service hours for the National Honor Society, Alabama Christian Academy senior Mikey Peavy coordinated a blood drive in memory of family friend JR Southerland, while also supporting the local blood bank, LifeSouth. The response was overwhelming and even ACA Head of School Greg Glenn donated blood to the good cause.

MA Kindergartners Celebrate 100 Days of School

Montgomery Academy’s kindergarten students celebrated the 100th Day of School with the wedding ceremony of Zero the Hero to Miss Ten. This special day is an exciting mathematical milestone for our littlest learners.

Learning, Growing & Belonging maconeast.net Join us at Macon East Academy, where we will partner with your family to help your child reach their fullest potential. Thousands of families have trusted Macon East Academy and we hope your family will too. You are always welcome, so please get in touch with our Admissions Office and schedule a campus tour. We would love to show you around! Dual enrollment and financial aid are available.

15396 Vaughn Road l Cecil, Alabama 36013 l 334.277.6566 Located a few minutes east of Chantilly Parkway, just minutes from Montgomery River Region Parents I March 2021

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Eastwood Girls Treat School to Bake Sale

Eastwood Christian School’s sixth-grade girls had a sweet way to express love and support for others. They enthusiastically hosted a Valentine bake sale to raise money for Eastwood’s missions fund which donates tuition for students who attend Zana School in Uganda. Everyone enjoyed buying the homemade goodies for themselves and as gifts for others.

If you have thirty minutes or more to listen, ask Antonio what he dreams of being in ten years.

WE DO WHAT WE DO BECAUSE CHILDREN HAVE DREAMS.

STJ Students Named Nat’l Merit Finalists

Saint James seniors Paige Hemmer and Zach Ohliger were named National Merit Scholarship Program Finalists on February 10. After being named Semifinalists in the fall, both students were reviewed and evaluated based on their academic record, information about Saint James School’s curricula and grading system, national test scores, school recommendations, information about their activities and leadership, and an essay written by each.

Upon completion of these requirements, 15,000 students nationwide were notified that they had been named a National Merit Finalist. During the spring and early summer, approximately 7,500 of these students will be notified that they have been awarded scholarships specifically designated for National Merit Finalists.

1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 | ChildrensAL.org

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Montgomery County Schools

TEA Christian Academy Instills Biblical Principles

Gov. Ivey Recognizes Academy Football Coach

Alabama Governor Kay Ivey issued a commendation celebrating Montgomery Academy Coach Robert Johnson’s accomplishments during the 2020 football season. Johnson was selected as the Class 3A Football Coach of the Year by the Alabama Football Coaches Association.

T.E.A. Christian Academy is committed to providing its students with a quality educational experience that will help prepare them to excel in college and in life. A daily devotion includes prayer and the school creed. Additionally, T.E.A. has a weekly Chapel program where the students willingly participate.

A theme for each of the nine weeks includes lessons that instill Godly principles. The themes for this school term have been “Jesus Calls Us to Serve,” “Building Godly Character” and “Called to be Different.” Each theme includes lessons on Biblical truths, wisdom, viewpoints and principles. Parents and supporters are welcome to join T.E.A.’s Chapel on its Zoom call.

T.E.A. has always taken a proactive approach by partnering with several local and neighboring colleges. A Bible class is also taught to familiarize students with the Bible to include the Books of the Bible, Bible stories, and Bible characters. T.E.A. is grateful to God for the staff and their wholehearted desire to inspire, moti-vate and equip students with the foundational knowledge that will enable them to be the best they can be.

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CHECK OUT our interactive hands-on Discovery Hall.

GET HANDS-ON with some of our educational animals such as our baby alligator, eastern indigo snake, gopher tortoise, and more.

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We also offer 2 Spring Break Camps & a Thanksgiving Camp!

River Region Parents I March 2021

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BTW Student Artworks Displayed at MMFA A total of 25 Booker T. Washington Magnet High Visual Arts and Photography students had work selected for the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Artworks Gallery exhibition, “The Language of Flowers.” Their work will be on display at the museum until mid-March.

The following students have works featured in the exhibit: Erica Luckie, Darlyn Bravo, Desiree Senn, S. Mackenzie Donaldson, Genesis Frazier, Makayla Ballard, Isabella Dennison, Heaven Harper, Joseph Higbe, Dillan Johnson, Hannah Jones, Naeun Nania Kim, Josiah King, Sierra Lawrence, Madelin Morgan, Christa Murray, Sabrina Mejia Ramirez, Da’Nadia Ross, Margarete Schüler, Ariel Steele, Valentina Sulbaran, Maya Tyynismaa, Keira Underwood, Daniel Vallejo and Ada Withers.

Pictured here is “A Fairy Tale” by senior Photography student Erica Luckie.

STJ Announces Scholastic Art Award Winners

Saint James had a number of students who placed in the High School Scholastic Art and Writing Awards. Natalie Magee received a Silver Key in Drawing & Illustration; Luke Beasley received three Honorable Mentions in the same category. In Photography, Sierra Boles, Chelsea Johnson and Caroline Williams received Honorable Mentions, and Haley Taylor won a Gold Key and Silver Key. In Painting, Sydney Eng received a Silver Key and an Honorable Mention. Caroline Gregory received Honorable Mention in Digital Art. Izabella Hernandez won a Gold Key and Silver Key in Painting. Alexander McHorne and Aijah Robinson both received Honorable Mentions in Mixed Media.

The two Gold Key winners move on to the second round of judging for national recognition and awards. These works have already advanced to be judged in New York City.

National Medalists will be announced March 17.

The winners listed here represent the classes of Art 2, Art 3, Graphic Design, Photography 2, AP Drawing, and AP 2D Drawing. These classes are taught by Evelyn Shoults.

Front row from left are: Izabella Hernandez, Chelsea Johnson and Sydney Eng; back row: Sierra Boles, Caroline Williams, Alexander McHorne and Natalie Magee.

Not pictured: Luke Beasley, Caroline Gregory, Aijah Robinson and Haley Taylor.

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Montgomery County Schools

MEA Cheerleaders Promote Literacy

Macon East Academy’s varsity cheerleaders were able to celebrate with Short the Squirrel on his first birthday. Short the Squirrel is a non-profit founded in 2020 and was created after a Mobile County Assistant District Attorney saw young children spending large unoccupied blocks of time in the courtroom. Short the Squirrel is a mechanism to fill the gap with “edutainment.” The Macon East cheerleaders participated in the 30-minute celebration by participating in a pep rally for reading to the targeted audience of first-graders. The girls were excited to bring the program to life and help encourage the love of reading. More information about Short the Squirrel or anyone who wished to follow his adventures can visit: https:// shortthesquirrel.com/ Shown are T-Roy, the Troy University mascot; Ar’monni Payne; Hannah Kate Hodges; Short the Squirrel; Austin Gorman; Rachel Major and Hendley Culpepper.

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Catholic Senior Named National Merit Finalist

Montgomery Catholic senior Harrison Skala was selected as a National Merit Finalist for 2021. Each year, approximately 1.5 million high school students apply for the National Merit Scholarship Program. Of these applicants, 50,000 students qualify for recognition in the program, and roughly 15,000 are eventually named Finalists every year.

These students must meet very high academic standards in their high school course-work and PSAT testing.

This spring, the National Merit Scholarship Corporation will begin awarding scholarships to approximately 7,600 of the Finalists.

ACA Senior Signs with Louisiana

Alabama Christian Academy senior Jalen Clark signed a letter of intent to accept a full scholarship to continue higher education and play football for the Louisiana Lafayette Ragin’ Cajuns. Clark signed with the Sun Belt co-champions as a safety after spending most of the last four years on offense as a receiver or quarterback at ACA. Head football coach Nate Sanford said that as good as he is an athlete and a football player, he’s an even better person, that he brings sunshine wherever he goes. After Clark signed the letter of intent, he spoke about his departure from New Orleans in the wake of Hurricane Katrina when he was two years old and that it was a coincidence and a blessing that he chose a college two hours down from his childhood home.

2021Youth Baseball Camps (ages 5-17)

Sessons 1

June 14-17, 2021

Sessons 2

June 21-24, 2021

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

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

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All registration is online at:

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www.faulknerbaseballcamps.com 25

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Montgomery County Schools

Two MA Basketball Players Hit 1,000 Career Points

Montgomery Academy senior basketball players Gabby Ramirez, left, and Leighton Robertson, right, were recognized for reaching 1,000 career points! Coach Reg Mantooth presented them both with a 1,000 point club ball.

ECA Students Celebrate Manners of the Heart Evangel Christian Academy’s kindergarten class recently held a special tea party.

The students had learned about mealtime etiquette as part of the Manners of the Heart curriculum. The party gave students a chance to display their good manners, and they dressed in formal attire during the luncheon. Everyone had a great time and displayed wonderful manners!

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Dalraida Students Chosen as Newtopia Champions

Misty Trussell’s QUEST (gifted) class at Dalraida Elementary School had three students chosen as Newtopia champions.

Emma Johnson (5th grade), Michael Lawing

Saint James Equestrians Make Great Showing

The Saint James equestrian team competed over two days at Shiloh Farms outside of Auburn January 23-24. This was their last IEA show of the season. The middle school team was awarded champions on Sunday with all riders having great placings. The middle school team also qualified for regional competition in north Alabama. Middle school riders Maggie Harris and Elley Goff also qualified for regionals as individual riders in their classes. The varsity team had a great weekend with riders placing well in all classes.

Saint James began IEA participation in 2011 and now includes riders in fourth through twelfth grades. Saint James is the only school in the state of Alabama that has a hunt seat team competing with other club teams and independent riders. The season consists of horse shows with teams from Alabama, Georgia, Tennessee, Mississippi, Florida and South Carolina. STJ has had many successful riders compete in post-season championships, including at the IEA regional, zone and national levels.

Eastwood Students Celebrate 100 Days of School

Each year, Eastwood students count the days and look forward to celebrating the 100th day of school. The students enjoy snacking on the edible items they use while counting, graphing, sorting and building.

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(4th grade), and Jabin Vasquez (3rd grade) were chosen as champion students for their excellence in school. They will receive a Newtopia pizza party and awards ceremony to recognize their hard work!

They will all have an opportunity to win a Newtopia scholarship.

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Hours:

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MA Track & Field Competes at State

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River Region Parents I March 2021

Montgomery Academy Indoor Track & Field student-athletes who competed in the State Tournament include: Anaya Thomas, Triple Jump STATE CHAMP and STATE RUNNER UP in 60m Hurdles; Avery Arden Pemberton, 3rd Place Pole Vault; Isabella Johnson, 3rd Place Shot Put; Girls’ 4x800Team, 3rd Place; Girls, OVERALL 3rd Place; and Rick McBride, 3rd Place 400m.

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A number of Booker T. Washington Magnet High visual arts and photography students had their artwork selected to represent Montgomery County in the 2021 State Superintendent Art Exhibition.

Instead of having their artwork on display in the State Capitol, they were featured in a virtual exhibit.

Students with selected artwork are Darlyn Bravo, Genesis Frazier, Kristopher Roton, J. Amir Robinson, Heaven Harper, Kennedi Kemp, Madelin Morgan, Christa Murray, Daniel Vallejo and Ada Withers.

Three students placed on the state level in the Exhibition. Photography student Genesis Frazier came in second place in the 9-10 Category II for “Gentle Flower.” Visual Arts student Madelin Morgan finished second in the 9-10 Category I for “Tea Gone Cold,” and Daniel Vallejo received Honorable Mention in the 9-10 Category 1 for “10th Element,” which is shown here. www.riverregionparents.com

ACA Senior Headed For California

Alabama Christian Academy senior Khalil Jackson signed with Golden West College to continue his education and play college football. Head football Coach Nate Sanford said Jackson has probably come the farthest of any player that he’s ever coached who ended up playing football in college. He said that Jackson couldn’t bench 100 pounds four years ago and went to the wrong huddle in his first JV game, but by the time he was a junior he was an All-Metro defensive lineman. By his senior year, Jackson dead-lifted 700 pounds and that’s only because the bar couldn’t hold any more weight!

Montgomery Catholic Students Chosen for Honor Bands

For the second year in a row, Montgomery Catholic had a record number of students in our Middle and High School band programs earn spots in both the District VI and All-State Honor Bands. Ten students from the Middle School and 15 students from the High School were chosen to perform in the District VI Honor Bands, and of those, three Middle School students and 11 High School Students will represent Montgomery Catholic in the All-State Honor Band.

“We are exceedingly proud of all of our students who earned a spot in the District and All-State Honor Bands for 2021,” said Alex Johnson, Director of Bands. “Each one represents loads of dedication and hard work. Not only are they fantastic student musicians, but they are also leaders and role models for their peers.”

Middle School District VI Honor Band members are: Amelia Bair, Cooper Beesley, Kamila Diaz, Ashley Digman, Ethan Harbin, David Huston, Anna Lathram, Keveen Ramirez, Peter Riello and Ryan Stevenson. Beesley, Lathram and Ramirez are also Middle School All-State Honor Band members.

High School District VI Honor Band members are: Michael Algarin, Aidan Blum, Mason Branam, Hunter Dailey, Carlo DeJesus, Mai Ellington, Daniel Gacha, Nate Gartland, Angela Gier, Kaylee Holmes, Jackson Ingalls, John Scott Jackson, Shannon Kille, Molly Nicklay and Josie Smith. Algarin, Branam, Ellington, Gacha, Gier, Holmes, Ingalls, Jackson, Kille, Nicklay and Smith are also High School All-State Honor Band members.

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Montgomery County Schools

STJ Indoor Track Team Boasts Two State Champions

Saint James Trojans Indoor Track Team finished its regular season with a meet on January 29.

Coach Tim Moore had six athletes qualify for the 4A-5A AHSAA Indoor Track meet on February 5 at the CrossPlex in Birmingham. Competing in the shot put were Connor Owens and Lucas Huckabee. Hannah Richardson competed in the 400m and 800m races. Senior Presley Miles qualified to compete in the 800m, 1600m and 3200m. Junior Kendall Hardaway qualified to compete in the long jump. In addition, the girls’ relay team competed in the 4X400 and 4X800. All made it to the podium on Friday evening.

Miles won all three events she competed in and was awarded State Champion for the 800m, 1600m and 3200m races. Owens won state in the shot put with a throw of 45 feet, 4.5 inches.

Other award winners were Huckabee, who placed third in shot put; and Richardson, who placed third in the 400m dash. The relay team of girls including Hardaway, Richardson, Miles and Kendal Wright placed third in the 4x400 relay.

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BTW Wins PTSA Reflections Awards

A number of Booker T. Washington Magnet High Photography, Creative Writing, Dance, and Visual Arts students were recognized in the Montgomery County PTSA Reflections Program. Students created works based on this year’s theme, “I MATTER BECAUSE...” Selected works will move on to the State PTSA Reflections Competition.

“A Mother’s Love” by photography student Cameron Caldwell, shown here, won an Award of Merit.

Other winners from BTW are listed below.

In Photography, Erica Luckie won the Award of Excellence and Jasia Elliott and S. Mackenzie Donaldson won Honorable Mentions.

In Literature, Christin Watson won the Award of Excellence, Mia Rose won the Award of Merit, and Emily Meyers and Jayda Julius won Honorable Mentions.

In Dance Choreography, Kaiya King won the Award of Excellence and Gaia Moore won the Award of Merit.

In Visual Arts, Devin Harper won the Award of Excellence.

Eastwood Studies Medieval History

As a part of their study of the medieval period and the feudal system, the Eastwood Christian School fourth-grade students participated in a group project constructing castle models that reflected life in the Middle Ages.

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

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Montgomery County Schools

MEA Student Shares Love of Figure Skating

Academy Economics Students Place in Regional Game

Three Economics students in Dr. Scott Morris’s class at Montgomery Academy placed in the South Alabama Regional Stock Market Game sponsored by the Alabama Council on Economic Education. The Alabama Stock Market Game is an exciting 10-week, online trading experience. Students begin with $100,000 and may purchase stocks, bonds and mutual funds and make any number of trades with their available funds. The teams with the most valuable portfolios at the end of the 10 weeks win their division. Easton Strickler finished 5th, Robert Huffaker 6th and Hudson Whitt 8th.

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

River Region Parents I March 2021

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Montgomery Academy sophomore Alison Magda first stepped on the ice when she was three years old. She started taking skating lessons when she was five years old, and her first competition was when she was seven in Minneapolis. After attending several competitions, she has received more than one hundred medals from individual programs, couples’ programs, and synchronized programs with her team. Magda enjoys the general feeling of being on the ice and experiencing freedom.

“It also feels special when you can do something that’s not extremely popular but is yet graceful and unique,” says Magda.

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TEA Academy Visits Trenholm Virtually

T.E.A. Christian Academy students recently took a virtual field trip with Tren-holm State Community College located in Montgomery. The students received a wealth of knowledge about Trenholm. The school is an accredited two-year college that offers associate degrees with transfer options. The facilitators for the virtual tour were JaCorey Calloway, assistant director of enrollment, and Michelle Thompson, financial aid advisor. Their presentation included a brief history about the school, the different locations in the city, the enrollment process, the academic diversity of courses, student organizations, financial aid, and job placement through partnerships they have with businesses in the city.

ACA Students Serve

A group of Alabama Christian Academy middle school students went to My Kids Attic to organize clothes that had been donated to Heart to Heart of Montgomery, which is a foster care ministry. Foster parents can come into Heart to Heart and purchase clothes for their foster children at a huge discount. ACA has partnered with Heart to Heart to bring about a positive influence in our community. Serving others is part of the “We Serve” program at Alabama Christian Academy.

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Montgomery County Schools

Halcyon Collects for Friendship Mission

ACA’s After School Art Club

Alabama Christian Academy’s After School Art Club has been working on several projects in the past few weeks. Members of the club are K5 through 5th grade and they have been exploring all areas of art, from painting to drawing, beadwork and scrapbooking. They complete one project per week and just finished an oil painting project.

Halcyon Elementary School’s donation drive for Friendship Mission has been a great success, thanks in part to a tremendous outpouring of support from the community.

This is a by-the-numbers look at what these students collected: 95 face masks; 6 brush/combs sets; 4 rolls of tissue; 27 packs of Kleenex; 6 lip balms; 5 packs of flushable wipes; 48 travel kits that included lo-tion/deodorant/toothpaste/toothbrush/nail clippers; 9 bottles of shampoo & conditioner; 6 bath sponges; 7 toe warmers; 8 bottles of mouthwash; 46 toothbrushes; 30 packs of toothpaste; 28 pairs of socks; 15 bars of soap; 14 bottles of body wash; 7 body sprays; 2 nail polishes; 1 pack of hair bands; 46 bottles of lotion; 38 bottles of ladies’ deodorant; 16 bottles of men’s deodorant; 2 bottles of hand soap; 5 bottles of baby powder; and 28 ladies’ pouches.

The school also received 20 blankets donated from Tie and Doll Inc.

Catholic Sixth-Grader Places in Spelling Bee

Lee Athletes Take Part in National Signing Day

Student athletes and their families gathered at Lee High School on National Signing Day to celebrate an ex-citing new chapter in their lives.

A total of seven Lee Generals football players signed Letters of Intent to play football for institutions of high-er learning. Shown from left are Tyler Franklin, Adarius Horne, DeJuan Blackmon, Reginal Davis and Mal-com Hudson. The school also recognized William Middleton and Eric Stewart, although they were not able to attend.

The student athletes in attendance posed for photos with their family members and took turns talking to members of the media after a ceremony in the Lee auditorium. Davis signed with the University of Tennes-see-Chattanooga; Franklin with Lane College; Blackmon and Hudson with Tennessee Valley Prep; and Horne, Middleton and Stewart with New Mexico Military Institute.

River Region Parents I March 2021

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Montgomery Catholic sixth-grader Samantha Berg came in third place in the 2021 Montgomery Country Spelling Bee. This year’s competition was held virtually which made it extra challenging for each of the competitors. www.riverregionparents.com

TEA Christian Academy Remembers MLK

While January brought in the New Year, it was also the month of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s birthday. T.E.A. Christian Academy paused to remember this African American history maker. The students wrote essays, poems, researched interesting facts, viewed his speeches and included much of this information in the second nine weeks awards program.

The students appreciate Dr. King’s demonstration of non-violence even when he and his followers were subject to brutality and abuse. They learned that “loving your neighbor as yourself” and “doing unto others as you would have them do unto you” are important principles that all people should live by. They also learned the importance of remembering the past; it is equally important to follow in the footsteps of those trailblazers who made a difference that impacted all humanity. To keep MLK’s Dream alive, we must continue to move forward in pursuit of equality and justice for all.

ACA Lower School Celebrates 100 Days The Alabama Christian Academy lower school celebrated 100 days of school by wearing bright clothes to send a message out that it is 100 days brighter at ACA with in-school learning since August. There have been a few challenges, but overall, the students think that we are better and brighter together. Students wore neon bright clothes or clothes with 100 items on them. During class times the students did all kinds of activities that involved the number 100.

Montgomery Academy Transforms into Brazil

In this year’s annual culture study, The Montgomery Academy Lower School embarked on an immersive study of Brazil that concluded with the annual festival. While there were a multitude of learning experiences in classrooms over the last month, the festival week provides unique culminating experiences that celebrate the culture of Brazil. This year, the festival included: listening to Brazilian folklore told by storyteller Joseph Trimble, learning both traditional and modern Brazilian dances, making Carnival-themed ganzas (samba shakers), creating books for Literature de Cordel (books on a cord), and cooking brigadeiro chocolates. Fifth-graders also researched and created an interactive science museum on the biomes of Brazil.

Please send Your School News to: editor@riverregionparents.com.

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It’s hard to believe that spring is upon us! Spring is a hopeful season!

It brings transformation and change, from cold to warm, from grey to bursts of color.

It is a time for new growth in gardens and baby animals. The new life, new beginnings, and bright, colorful new look that spring brings are hopeful reminders that we don’t remain in any season or cycle indefinitely.

The arrival of spring brings a season full of activities to Pike Road Schools.

Spring sports are in full swing with tennis, golf, soccer, track, fishing, baseball, and softball. Our band students are preparing to perform for a statewide music

River Region Parents I March 2021

assessment sponsored by the Alabama Music Educators Association. Theater performances are another major spring event for Pike Road Schools. Participation in bands, clubs, sports, and other extracurricular activities has proven to strengthen student engagement. When students are engaged, they learn at higher rates.

Our schools are working hard this year amidst a pandemic to keep students actively engaged and learning.

Pike Road Elementary School just kicked off Book Madness, a fun, engaging reading initiative that the entire school partakes in. Pike Road Intermediate students had fun doing activities that transported them back to the 1800s to culminate their learning in Alabama History. Vicki Davis, principal at Pike Road Intermediate School, presented to school leaders from across the state at the 2021 School Superintendents of Alabama Legislative Conference on

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Pike Road Schools’ history and how we have successfully implemented the use of i-Ready to help balance grade-level instruction with differentiation. I am very proud of the contributions that our administrators, teachers, and students are making to our school district’s overall success.

Pike Road Schools is embracing this new season full of activities as we quickly move toward the end of the school year.

The future is bright for Pike Road Schools!

Keep an eye on us as we continue to lead the way in education and make our district the best it can be.

Chuck Ledbetter has been an educator for 30 years. He earned a B.A. in history from Auburn University; a Masters of Education in history from AUM; and a doctorate in educational leadership from Auburn University. Ledbetter was a history teacher for 11 years, an assistant principal, a middle school principal, a high school principal, assistant superintendent for curriculum and for finance, and is in his 11th year as a superintendent. He is married to Kim and has three daughters, two sons-in-law, and five grandchildren.

www.riverregionparents.com

Pike Road Band Members Audition for All-State

Recently, four Pike Road band students auditioned for Alabama All-State. Depending upon a student’s ranking within our district (District 6), they qualify for the All-District Band, or the highest rankings will also qualify for All-State Band.

All four students ranked and placed as follows: Catalina Quimby (10th grade) Flute - All-District Band; Jessica Brown (10th grade) Clarinet - All-District Band/All-State Band; Marissa Hall (12th grade) Percussion - All-District Band; and Ezra Lacomb (8th grade) Percussion - All-District Band/All-State Band Alternate.

These students will have the opportunity to rehearse and perform with the All-District and/or All-State Band Festivals later this semester.

Our district represents schools from: Elmore, Montgomery, Lee, Randolph, Russell, Macon, Tallapoosa, Chambers, Coosa and Bullock counties.

PRHS Runners Represent at State

PRHS Students Gain Experience in Broadcast Media Learners in print and broadcast media classes at Pike Road High School are gaining hands-on experience beyond the walls of the school building.

Allison Hayes, an 11th-grade journalism student and staff member of The Revere school newspaper, submitted work that was published in River Region Parents magazine and in BVMSports.com, a national website that covers athletics at every level.

Haynes is also a reporter for One Nation - PRHS News.

Joshua Martin, a first-year TV Production student at PRHS, recently served on the production team for a TedX Conference, entitled “Fearless: Sheridan Heights Women” in Montgomery. For Martin, an aspiring film director, this was an opportunity to put theory into practice. In the process, the 10th-grader networked with professionals in search of young talent as prospects for other opportunities. Martin is the videographer and video editor for One Nation - PRHS News.

Senior Jonathan Romualdo, a second-year TV Production student, shared his reluctance of being in front of the camera. It turns out Romualdo has another gift: art. So, he was challenged to create logos for The Revere and One Nation Media, the umbrella organization for the student-operated newspaper and broadcast.

The logos drawn freehand by Romualdo will be prominently displayed on the social media pages of the classes as well as upcoming apparel for the school’s mass media program.

“Pike Road High School is blessed with abundant student talent,” instructor-advisor Ken Spear says. “While some of them may not embark on careers in communications media, they are gaining the skills that will prepare them for the rigors of any core subject while becoming marketable for any profession and mastering those objectives for college and career readiness.”

TV Production classes are also affiliated with the Career Technical Education (CTE) initiative, which focuses on developing the skills of learners, preparing them for postsecondary learning and workforce opportunities. Learners also can earn credentials in the field of study.

Kirsten Stroud, Jasmine Moore, Victoria Stephens and Gabby Stephens qualified to compete in the Alabama High School Athletic Association Indoor Track & Field State Championship February 5 at the Birmingham CrossPlex. They represented PRHS in the 4A/5A Girls 60m dash, 400m dash, long jump, and 4x200m relay.

PRES Student Wins Rotary Essay Contest

Pike Road Elementary School student Jude Trew wrote the winning “Service Above Self” essay. The essay contest is sponsored by the Montgomery Rotary Club and open to all public school thirdgrade students. Trew and his family, and teacher Britney Fureigh, attended the awards ceremony where he was awarded $50 and Fureigh was awarded $250 to use for her classroom.

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Pike Road Band Prepares for Concert

Frontier Day at Pike Road Intermediate

To culminate their learning in Alabama history, fourth-grade students at Pike Road Intermediate School participated in Frontier Day. This event gave students the opportunity to experience what life was like in Alabama during the early 19th century.

Learners peeled potatoes, made candles and butter, shucked corn, sewed small pillows, and strung popcorn.

Our Pike Road Marching Band is an impressive ensemble that everyone can enjoy at our football games, but during our off season, Pike Road band students continue to work on playing techniques and musicianship in order to perform for a statewide assessment that is sponsored by the Alabama Music Educators Association. Each year, middle and high school concert bands from across the state travel to their district’s festival to perform a concert of selected pieces. The concert bands are judged on their ability to play these compositions accurately by exhibiting playing technique, dynamic contrast, proper phrasing and overall musical professionalism. The performing group is then asked to sight read a composition that they have never seen before.

Due to current circumstances, the Pike Road middle and high school band will record their music performance assessment program and submit it for adjudication. High school band members have been working hard to prepare their very best concert after school at the Pike Road Performing Arts Center. Under the direction of Patrick Darby, the middle and high school bands will record their performance and host an in-person performance at 7 p.m. on Thursday, March 11. This concert will be hosted at the St. James Methodist Church located at 9045 Vaughn Rd. in Montgomery to accommodate social distancing for audience members. Please come out and help us celebrate our talented musicians!

Pike Road Starts Strings Program

More than two dozen students at Pike Road High School have started a strings program! Learners ranging from 7th through 11th grades have begun learning how to play the violin, viola and cello. These students meet before school three days a week.

Laura Walters, who previously taught string orchestra and currently serves as the junior high music teacher, is extremely excited to host this opportunity for Pike Road learners. String orchestra programs are not commonplace in Alabama, so this growing group of students will help Pike Road highlight their young musicians in a very special way! These students have formed a small chamber group with the hopes of performing publicly this spring. If you are interested in supporting this musical effort in any way, e-mail laura.walters@pikeroadschools.org.

PRHS Athletes Sign Letters of Intent

Six senior Patriots at Pike Road High School officially signed to play football at the collegiate level on National Signing Day. Ahmad Blackmon signed with Clark University, Blake Durham with UT Martin, Jeremiah Frazier with Kilgore College, LJ McCloud with Georgia Southern, Griffin Robinson with Wisconsin Platteville (to play football and baseball) and Harrison Wallace with Penn State.

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Pike Road Students Host Wax Museum A wax museum was the final step to an ongoing project where fifth-grade learners at Pike Road Intermediate researched a historical figure from the American Revolution and then transformed themselves into their figure to teach other students what they learned. Students began the project in their social studies classes, where they chose a historic figure, located reliable sources, and researched their figure, focusing on their lives before, during and after the American Revolution. With the information gathered, they developed an expository essay in their English and language arts class. Next, they brought their completed expository essays back to social studies, where learners turned

the essays into a first-person narrative and created a speech about the life and legacy of their figure. Finally, the students dressed up like their historic figure and presented their speeches for their peers at the wax museum.

The purpose of the American Revolution Wax Museum is for learners to become an expert on the life and

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legacy of one historical figure from the American Revolution, while also learning about the lives of several other historical figures their classmates are portraying. The final step of the wax museum project allowed learners to practice their speaking and presentation skills as they got into character of their figure.

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After-School Tutoring at Prattville Intermediate

Prattville Intermediate School students take part in after-school tutoring. Participants receive additional standards-based instruction that is interactive and individualized.

Julie Andrews Surprises PCA Students with Note

100 Days at Pine Level

Pine Level Elementary students are 100 days smarter! Students celebrated by participating in a variety of math, writing and reading activities about 100. Many students dressed up as if they were 100 years old.

Art Studio Partners with Prattville Intermediate

After the loss of Prattville Christian Academy’s benefit play director Joey Fine earlier this year, the student cast of Mary Poppins, Jr. needed something special to help them pick up the pieces and carry on in honor of their beloved friend, mentor and community director. Fine was in his second year as the school’s benefit play director and had been working with this show’s cast since the school year began in August 2020. As the cast, comprised of students in grades 6-12, struggled to know that the “show must go on,” an idea was born while a cast parent was reading an article about Julie Andrews, the iconic Mary Poppins in the 1964 film debut of the classic musical, narrating a new Netflix show.

“I immediately thought how cool it would be to have the original Mary Poppins send a note of encouragement to the cast.” After a couple of days of research and numerous e-mails, she was able to make contact with Andrews’s manager. “I let him know about the cast and the recent loss of their director, and I was shocked when he reached out and sent a personalized letter.”

Hello Everybody! Greetings to you all.

A little bird told me that you have been working on a special benefit production of Mary Poppins. Great! I am sending you warmest wishes for success.

Do it in honor of Mr. Fine. He must have been a really nice guy. Remember, also, to enjoy yourselves and give the audience the gift of this magical show.

With love, Julie Andrews The cast’s initial disbelief instantly gave way to gasps of excitement and astonishment as students were given a personal copy of the letter during play practice on Wednesday afternoon.

The award-winning actress’s words rang clear as a reminder that the show must go on in honor of Mr. Fine. Through the tears, cast members agreed that he would have wanted nothing less than a stellar performance despite his absence.

“Joey loved theatre, and he especially enjoyed working with this talented cast of kids from PCA,” said Tammy Fine, wife of the late Joey Fine. “While we are very sad that he isn’t here to follow this production through, I know he would be so proud of these students for pressing on and pulling this show together.”

These PCA students will forever have this “practically perfect” reminder of all those who support them—near and far!

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

P’zazz Art Studio of Prattville partnered with Prattville Intermediate School to offer a yearlong after-school art program to students.

Pine Level Celebrates Valentine’s Day

At Pine Level Elementary, traditional school during a pandemic can be challenging. On a rainy cold day, the PLES coaches were able to maintain social distancing while exercising and celebrating Valentine’s Day in PE by participating in fun Valentine activities.

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PCA Senior Named Bryant-Jordan Scholar-Athlete

Each year, the Alabama Sports Hall of Fame comes together with the Alabama High School Athletic Association to grant a high school senior of excellent athletic and academic standing the Bryant-Jordan Scholar-Athlete Award.

For the class of 2021, Prattville Christian Academy is proud to have nominated Jenna Stilling for the competition!

Factors included in the selection were scholastic standing, sports, athletic honors, school leadership and community involvement, all of which Stilling projects.

Stilling has been a PCA student for fourteen years and is appreciated by her teachers and peers for the dedication she demonstrates in and out of the classroom. She is constantly pursuing her interests, thrilled by “the challenge of learning” and driven by curiosity and the desire to overcome obstacles. Her devotion is also seen outside of academics, where it extends into various club leadership positions, the community, and athletics – particularly on the soccer field.

Stilling’s experience with soccer started with the YMCA team when she was only four years old. Since then, she’s participated in city leagues, both Prattville and Wetumpka United Soccer Club, and high school soccer. She enjoys the challenging practices and games, but she finds that the best part is the strong bond she has created with her teammates, many of whom she has played with for years. “It’s that tight bond that carries you through physical games, rough losses, and well-earned victories,” she explains. “There’s nothing I wouldn’t trade for my team.”

This fall, Stilling will attend college at Oklahoma Christian University near Oklahoma City, where she is planning to study computer science with an emphasis in video game design and cybersecurity.

This article was contributed by PCA junior journalism student Maddie Jeffery.

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PES Celebrates 101 Days

Prattville Elementary School students are 101 days smarter, and they celebrated with 101 Dalmatians and Cruella Deville.

PPS Students Earn Reward

Prattville Primary School students work very hard meeting their goals. Each quarter, the students set individual reading, math and behavior goals. Students were rewarded with an obstacle course activity when they met their goals.

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

PCA’s Model UN Delegation Wins Award

Prattville Christian Academy’s Model United Nations team competed in its second formal {virtual} conference of the year – the Best Delegate Southern Model United Nations Invitational Conference. The team represented a wide variety of nations from Indonesia to China and multiple topics from Incarceration Alternatives to Political Participation.

After a full day of competing in the regional conference, the delegates brought home two awards! Senior Emmy Smith was awarded the Outstanding Delegate Award (2nd overall) in the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and senior Brandon Carter was awarded the Honorable Delegate Award (3rd place overall) in the United Nations Security Council.

PCA’s Model UN delegation enjoyed the conference and are actively preparing for their next. They would also like to thank their avid supporters, donors and sponsors for their generosity to make competitions possible!

This article was contributed by PCA senior journalism student Emmy Smith.

PCA Hires Head Football Coach

Prattville Christian Academy has hired Norman Dean as the Panthers’ head football coach beginning March 1.

In addition to his head coaching duties, Dean will assume the newly established Football Operations Director and Strength and Conditioning Program Director roles.

Dean brings more than 26 years of experience, having held several coaching positions at Elmore County High School, TR Miller High School, and most recently Trinity Presbyterian School. His head coaching record stands at 78-63 and includes a regional championship in 2008 when the team celebrated an undefeated regular season.

He is married to Alicia, and they have four children. His family attends Wetumpka Church of Christ, where he is a deacon.

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In a Couple Relationship?

Come join us for a series of free “couples education classes”— enjoy time with your partner & learn about healthy relationships!* We are looking for couples to participate in a paid evaluation study in partnership through Family Guidance Center of Alabama and Auburn University. Pre-register now! All couples who register and complete a survey can choose either a weekly or monthly series.** Each class series will be taught using: ELEVATE, a relationship education program that teaches couples how to take their relationship skills to the next level by focusing on 7 core relationship skills. Learn more about ELEVATE in the video on our website at familyguidancecenter.org

Classes begin in April 2021.

Class size is limited. Register TODAY to ensure your spots! *Dinner and Child Care will be provided **All individuals in all groups will be compensated for their time completing fourprogram evaluation surveys (each will take 45-60 minutes to complete). Each person can earn up to $160 over one year for completing the program evaluation surveys, or $320 per couple. Couples can earn an additional $80 by completing all 6 ELEVATE sessions together.

For more information about FREE relationship classes, visit familyguidancecenter.org and click on Life is Fun Together (LIFT).

Pre-registration is required. Have questions or want to register?

Contact Tonya at (334) 270-4100 or trogers@familyguidancecenter.org TODAY!

• Auburn University • College of Human Sciences

Funding for this project was provided by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Administration for Children and Families, Grant: #90ZB0007.

These services are available to all eligible persons, regardless of race, gender, age, disability or religion. © 2020 Alabama Healthy Marriage and Relationship Education

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The 2020-2021 school year has unfolded unlike any in the history of our school system!

We opened for inperson, traditional instruction on August 10, 2020, as originally planned. On average, approximately 75 percent of our students returned to their respective campuses.

Our virtual school, The EDGE, saw an increase in enrollment due to the pandemic.

We also offered a school-based virtual instruction option for families who were not comfortable sending their children to school.

Students participating in the school-based virtual option could remain virtual all year or transition back to the traditional setting at the end of any nine-week marking period.

The percentage of students participating in school-based virtual instruction has stayed around 25 percent since school began.

Finally, there are always traditional students

FBPK

who are participating virtually at any given time due to self-isolation or quarantine due to COVID-19 exposure.

The most challenging aspect of virtual instruction has been the strain placed on school staffs in monitoring students’ progress and facilitating the transition from schoolbased virtual to traditional instruction and vice versa. In my recent Student Advisory Council meetings, participants overwhelmingly confirmed the impact of the teacher in the classroom on their academic success. We are constantly reviewing our procedures to find more effective methods to support our virtual students and ensure they have every opportunity to master content standards.

Student assessment has been strongly affected by the pandemic. All state-required assessments were suspended last year, but we are in full assessment mode this spring.

The Pre-ACT has already been administered to all 10th grade students and the ACT to all 11th grade students in socially distanced settings. Assessments for students in the lower grades will begin in April.

We have learned a great deal thus far that has already informed some of our plans

for the 2021-2022 school year. We will return to a traditional school model for all schools when we open on August 9, 2021. Students who are subject to self-isolation or quarantine will be able to participate virtually to maintain attendance but will be expected to return to school at the conclusion of the quarantine period. Our virtual school, The EDGE (Elmore County’s Diverse Gateway to Education) will be the only fully virtual option. Students choosing the virtual option must transfer from their current school to The EDGE. These students may still participate in extracurricular activities/sports on the campus of their zoned school.

Regardless of the circumstances, Elmore County’s goal is “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.

First Baptist Preschool and Kindergarten P r at t v i l l e

2021-2022 REGISTRATION

STARTS FEBRUARY 17

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ECTC Names Student of the Month

Benjamin Posey from Wetumpka High School was named the Elmore County Technical Center Student of the Month for January. He is shown with Career Tech Director Emilie Johnson and his PreEngineering and Design instructor, Mark Wellander.

Pre-Registration Open for Elmore County Pre-K

Alabama’s nationally recognized First Class Pre-K is preparing for another exciting school year in Elmore County! Pre-registration for First Class Pre-K for the 2021-2022 school year is now open to children 4 years of age on or before September 1, 2021.

The First Class Pre-K program is offered at Eclectic, Holtville, Coosada and Wetumpka Elementary schools. Children may be pre-registered for any/all schools, parents/guardians are responsible for transportation, and the cost to participate is $40 per month per child.

The pre-registration process involves completing an online application and submitting the child’s birth certificate and proof of residence in Elmore County.

These documents may be submitted online, by mail or drop-off to the Elmore County Board of Education located at 100 H. H. Robison Drive in Wetumpka.

Pre-registration closes on March 17.

Both documents must be submitted for the child to be included in the drawing.

Children will be randomly selected for each school in a drawing to be conducted virtually on Wednesday, March 31, at 8:30 a.m. via Facebook Live. No child will be denied participation based on income, sex, race, color, national origin, or disability.

More info can be found at www. elmoreco.com. For assistance with accessing the online application, please contact one of the elementary schools or the Board of Education.

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Elmore County Schools

ECTC Grads Help with New Building

At least two returning students from Elmore County Technical Center have been working on our new building on campus.

One student works for a steel erection company now and the other for a plumbing company. It was so rewarding to see these students have the opportunity to invest in the school that helped connect them to their current occupations and give back to those programs. The building is scheduled to open to our students next school year.

Coosada Celebrates 101 Days

Coosada Elementary celebrated the 101st day of school by dressing up as 101 Dalmatians. Students enjoyed seeing their teachers as well as administrators dress up in celebration of all they have learned this year. Ms. McCollough (pictured) stated that, “the students have learned so much this year! The pandemic does not exist in our classroom.

We work hard and get our work accomplished, even if it’s in a slightly different way.”

Our students and teachers have proved to be so innovative and resilient this year. No matter what is happening in our world, teachers will teach and students will learn!

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Wetumpka Student is First-Ever AHSAA Girls’ Wrestling Champion

Jade Eldridge joined the Wetumpka High School wrestling team in 2020, competing as the only girl on the team. Now she is the first-ever Alabama High School Athletic Association Girls’ Wrestling champion of 2021, after she competed with 75 other girls in 11 different weight classes. The event was held at Hoover High School January 23.

Eldridge wrestled in the championship in the 150-pound weight class against number-one seed Akerah Artis, and won the title. Eldridge began wrestling in 2010 and is a two-time New York State Freestyle Champion and a twotime New York Wrestling Association for Youth Champion among her accomplishments. She is also a member of the River Rats Wrestling Club of Wetumpka.

The Elmore County Commission approved a resolution in honor of Eldridge’s achievements as a wrestling champion and presented it to her and her family at their work session meeting Feb. 8.

“Last year about this time we recognized a few of our boys from Wetumpka High School who won individual state championships,” Chairman Troy Stubbs said. “I know Coach Anthony Byrd is in the back and we fully expect to be recognizing a few more this year for their state championships.”

There are 13 state qualifiers from the Wetumpka wrestling team this year representing almost every weight class.

The Southeast Wrestling (SEWrestle) web site released the third Alabama Wrestling Coaches Poll in January of this year. In that poll, the WHS wrestling team was listed as fourth in the Class 5A-6A classification for the entire state.

Info from this article courtesy of Elmore Autauga News www.riverregionparents.com

ECTC Earns STEM Certification

Elmore County Technical Center earned Cognia STEM Certification in February. It is only the third technical center in the state to achieve certification and the first school in Elmore County to do so. ECTC began an intentional implementation of STEM teaching practices as well as content in the curriculum several years ago, and this certification simply recognizes the efforts made by the school system, faculty and staff, students, parents and community partners to ensure the students are college and career ready. This designation also helps ECTC remind all its stakeholders that it is more than the traditional “trade school” of the past and affirms that all students can benefit from STEM learning.

Airport Road Announces 2020-21 Student Council

Airport Road Intermediate School introduces its Student Council members for the 2020-2021 school year. The mission of the ARIS Student Council is to provide opportunities for a diverse group of students to engage in leadership activities, to develop personal selfworth, and to encourage school spirit. This year’s motto is “Wearing Masks Completing Tasks.” Students are under the direction of sponsors Samantha Ragasa, Mary Velasquez and Ashley Winchester.

Please send Your School News to: editor@riverregionparents.com.

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with Coach K

Clean Your Plate!

As a child, it was never a problem for me to clean my plate, even though that wasn’t a directive from my mom. I was the child who prayed over my food while preparing my plate. Whether it was my mom or my older sister cooking, the food was always delicious. It didn’t matter if it was spaghetti and corn bread (my mom’s favorite dish) or the variety of flavors of Hamburger Helper, I enjoyed every meal. Stacked in the pantry was the lady who I’ve never met but we had a great relationship...Little Debbie. The relationship was 50/50. She produced it and I consumed it!

From Nutty Buddy and Oatmeal Cream Pies to Star Crunch and Zebra Cakes, I rarely said “NO” to her.

As I think about my childhood, fruits and vegetables were a part of my life.

However, it wasn’t mandatory that I have them every meal or, quite frankly, every day. Growing up in Mississippi, my favorite fruit was and still is watermelon. There was nothing like going to my grandparents’ house in summer and eating a slice of watermelon outside while spitting out seeds. Vegetables, well, let’s just say even though Popeye the Sailorman was one of my favorite cartoons, if eating spinach was the way to build muscles, I would rather stay “muscle-less.”

As a husband, father, and personal trainer, I thank God for my upbringing, and now I want to model for my family and fitness family how to find balance in their food choices. My goal and passion is to teach people how to eat ‘CLEAN’.

Clean eating is a hot topic in the health world these days. So many are diving into the “clean eating pool,” while others are just dipping their feet in the River Region Parents I March 2021

water, apprehensive about its meaning.

So, what does it mean to eat clean? The simplest definition is that this habit focuses on fresh, whole foods. It simply involves choosing minimally processed foods that provide maximal nutritional benefits. The idea is to consume foods that are in as close to their natural state as possible. The fundamentals of eating clean encourage you to eat foods such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats, while limiting highly processed snack foods, sweets, and other packaged foods. You’re probably saying, “This sounds like a diet.” I don’t believe in diets, especially if your definition involves restrictions. I believe in creating healthy habits that will allow you the freedom and enjoyment of eating.

My goal for you and your family is to take a few steps towards eating clean.

Here are some tips to guide you:

EAT MORE VEGETABLES AND FRUITS: My oldest daughter, Ashlyn,

loves rainbows. She has 3-D colored letters and her favorite hobby is making a creative rainbow with them. Your plate should look like a rainbow, full of colors.

Add red, yellow, green peppers to your salad. Add berries, apples, or orange slices to your favorite dishes as well.

READ LABELS: Although clean eating

is based on fresh foods, there are certain types of packaged foods such as frozen vegetables, nuts, and meat that can be included. It’s so important that you read labels to make sure there aren’t any added sugars or preservatives.

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LIMIT ALCOHOL CONSUMPTION:

Alcohol is made by adding yeast to grains, fruits, or vegetables. Moderate intake of wine may boost your heart health, but frequent alcohol consumption may lead to a number of health problems. So, when following a clean eating lifestyle, minimize or eliminate your alcohol intake. Drink lots of water!

HAVE A HEALTHY RELATIONSHIP WITH FOOD: There are no “good”

foods and “bad” foods. However, there are healthy and unhealthy options. So many times, when we read or listen to people talk about what they ate, they emotionally attached themselves to their meals and you hear phrases such as “I had a bad weekend” or “I ate good yesterday.” STOP THIS! Eating pizza and robbing a bank should not be put in the same category as “bad”. Also, eating a salad and paying for a stranger’s meal should not be in the “good” category together. Framing food as good or bad sets us up to judge ourselves and others. Not to mention what we are teaching our kids.

Change your relationship status with food... it’s complicated. I say that because what you eat, when you eat, and how you eat can be totally different from the way someone else eats, and it’s totally okay.

The goal is to eat clean but not with a toxic mind set about food. Eat more of the rainbow, read labels, limit alcohol, yes, but the most important thing is to get healthy from the inside. A healthy outside starts from the inside.

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

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Day camps come in all shapes and sizes, appealing to a range of interests and ages. Here’s how to find a camp that invests in your youngster by creating an unforgettable xperience where they’ll meet new friends, gain self-confidence and learn new skills --all while giving you peace of mind.

Begin with basics. First determine

your schedule needs. Some camps are only a few hours a day while others are structured to work well with a working parent’s schedule. Figure out if you’ll need to arrange before or after care.

From there, seek a camp with “caring staff, fun programs and a dedication to the health and safety of the campers,” says DD Gass, a director of camps and school-age services for a faith-based community center.

Match the camp with your child’s interests. From computer

coding to robotics and sports, day camps offer kids the opportunity to try all kinds of new activities. If your child isn’t interested in a camp that specializes in one activity, choose a more traditional camp that offers a wide range of activities throughout the session.

“Make sure there’s a healthy balance between structure and choice,” says Jim Spearin, senior vice president of Youth Development for the YMCA.

Consider the culture. Ask for

referrals from trusted family and friends.”Choose a camp that welcomes parents as partners in their experience,” Spearin says. “Parents should always feel welcome to come visit during camp. There should be planned activities for both parent and camper to enjoy together such as special events or campouts.”

Seek qualified, organized staff.

Camp employees should be licensed, certified and trained in sexual/child abuse prevention, first aid and CPR. Find out how camp leaders are supervised and how they plan for emergencies, including natural disasters,

intruders and other threats. Also consider the child-to-staff ratio. Will your child feel lost in a group that’s too big, even if it meets state criteria?

“It’s vitally important for staff to have child development knowledge and experience to ensure that appropriate, engaging and enriching activities are offered,” says Katrina Ball, a childcare resource and referral director.

Try it before you buy. Attend a

camp expo or camp fair to find out what options exist in the area. Some organizations feature their own camp fairs and mini-camps during the spring for families to try.

“As a parent you know your child best and what program would be best for them. Trust your instincts,” Ball says.

what we treat

Calm butterflies. Many youngsters

have a hard time adjusting to new situations and people and may feel scared or intimidated. Include them in the process of choosing a camp. Discuss the schedule of activities and what a typical day will look like.

“Children can help pack their lunch (if needed) and pack their backpack with the items they’ll need for camp.

This helps them know what they have in their backpack and know what they will need to bring home,” Gass says.

Find out if one of your child’s friends would like to attend the camp with him. Attending orientations, visiting the camp site and meeting the staff prior to the beginning of camp can also help reduce any pre-camp jitters. rrp Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two happy day campers.

Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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by Kimberley Carter Spivey

This month, we were thrilled to get acquainted with the Jones family from Wetumpka, and excited to learn about their favorite family meal.

Both Shannon and Chris grew up in Wetumpka, and the lovely couple has been married for almost 23 years this April. Chris owns Jones Heating and Air, which serves the River Region area.

Shannon became a stay-at-home mom after their first child was born. Their oldest son, Cooper (19), attends Southern Union Community College, and their daughter, Carson (17), is a junior at Wetumpka High School. Their youngest son, Cooper (12), is in the 6th grade at Redland Elementary.

After Shannon got married her love for cooking grew, and she enjoys trying new recipes. As a child, her grandparents had a garden that everyone helped with during the summer. She grew up around home-cooked meals, in particular, baking and canning foods. Shannon admits, “Going out to eat back then was a treat.” As a young girl, she adapted to the cooking environment learning from her grandmother and mom. She recalls, “I remember sitting on the counter helping my grandmother roll and cut our favorite molasses cookies.”

Although Shannon’s cooking has evolved over the years with practice, her husband usually cooks more in the summer—as he loves to grill and try new recipes. “My whole family used to go to my parents’ home after church for Sunday lunch, which is a tradition that I miss. For years, my mother and I cooked once a week for our Wednesday night family dinners. Sometimes for up to 100 people. I’ve always felt like God gave me the gift of hospitality and service. It doesn’t always River Region Parents I March 2021

have to be fancy, just made with love.”

Shannon enjoys using her favorite cookware, her crockpot that was a wedding gift, and a turquoise cast iron enamel Dutch oven pot that makes its way around the kitchen.

She used to think she wanted a little coffee/ tea, salad/sandwich sweet shop. However, conversing with some friends who own restaurants, she quickly realized it would be a lot to take on a full-time job while being a mom of three.

“I used to collect cookbooks, especially if I traveled. That was before you could pull up anything with a click in a search engine.”

One dish Shannon discovered and loves cooking for her family is Mexican Lasagna.

What’s not to love? It’s hearty, satisfying and savory. And the Jones family can’t get enough of it!

Mexican Lasagna Ingredients 1-1/2 lbs ground beef or turkey 1/4 c. Kraft Zesty Italian dressing 2 c. thick and chunky salsa 6 (8”) flour tortillas 1 (15 oz.) can black beans, rinsed and drained 1-1/2 c. reduced-fat sour cream 52

1 pkg. taco seasoning mix (12-oz.) Mexican shredded cheese blend (or less)

Directions Brown meat and drain well. In large bowl, combine meat, salsa, dressing, seasoning mix, and beans. Mix well. In a 9x13” baking dish, arrange three of the tortillas to cover the bottom of the dish.

(Tearing them and then piecing them together is fine.) Cover the tortillas with a layer of half of the meat mixture. Spread with sour cream and then cover with another layer of three tortillas. Layer the rest of the meat mixture, and then sprinkle with shredded cheese.

Bake, uncovered, at 400 degrees for 45 minutes or until cheese is browned on top.

(To double the recipe, cover one casserole with foil and freeze it.

If frozen, bake covered at 400 degrees for one hour, remove foil and bake an additional 1520 minutes.)

Top with any variety of other ingredients you like including cilantro, avocado and green onions to name a few.

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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“We were holding the patient’s hand for the

family members who couldn’t be there.”

Giving their all, for all of us.

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screen hiatus, especially during the summer months. Spending time outdoors, learning a new skill, having fun, and forming new friendships is good for the body and soul!

If you have never sent your kids to a summer camp, here are 7 reasons why you should consider it!

With so many options, it’s easy to find a great fit for your child. From sports camps and art camps to STEM-based camps

Sending kids to camp is beneficial for you, too. Driving

away from your child(ren) on the first day might be a little gutwrenching. But entrusting your kids to someone else for a while can be truly beneficial. Maybe it will free up time for some overdue self-care, or give you and your partner time to reconnect. Maybe it will provide an opportunity to hit the reset button with your tween or teen. After all, absence makes the heart grow fonder! Parenting is tough work, so don’t feel guilty if you enjoy this time to yourself.

Chances are, your kids are having a blast without you!

and more traditional overnight options, summer camps are designed to serve a variety of ages and interests. The length of camp can range from a few mornings for younger kiddos to weeklong sleep-away camps for older kids. Local churches, school districts, and other organizations like the YMCA, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Camp Fire, and 4-H offer a wide range of camps. With a little bit of research, you can easily find a camp well-suited for your child.

Camps provide kids with experiences they might not have access to in “everyday” life. Horseback riding. Paddling

Your child’s experience as a camper could help land a summer job in the future. Camps are staffed by amazing

a canoe across the lake. Wilderness survival. Conquering a ropes course. Sleeping under the stars. Adventures are endless at camp, and your child will have an opportunity to try something brand new.

For the youngest campers, trying a new craft activity or learning a new camp song can be so much fun!

counselors who provide kids with all kinds of good, clean fun. Most of these counselors were campers once, too. Now they get to help a new set of youngsters make unforgettable summer memories, all while sharpening their own teamwork and leadership skills. Your child might have that same opportunity one day. What great way to spend a summer!

Camps are a safe place to practice social skills. It might

be awkward or uncomfortable for your child during those first few hours of camp when they don’t know a single soul. After all, stepping into a new social environment can be challenging. But the ability to comfortably communicate with new people is a life skill that all kids need, and a camp is a great place to practice! Camps also provide kids an opportunity to form friendships.

Camp is just plain fun. So many adults have fond memories from their days spent at camp, and kids who have been often say it’s a favorite part of their summer. Odds are, your kids are going to love it!

And for that reason alone, it’s worth sending them to camp. rrp Mary Ann Blair is a mom of two boisterous boys. Besides chronicling her adventures in motherhood at maryannblair.com, she loves the outdoors, reading, and all things crafty.

Camps give kids a much-needed technology break. No matter how old your child is, they could probably benefit from a

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Whether you want them to experience day or overnight camp, sports or fine arts, our listing has details on these and many more. It’s time to get your campers ready for summer fun!

2021

Guide

Art/Theatre/Music

ASU Tonea Stewart’s Visual Performing Arts Camps Experience

Alabama Christian Academy Camp Eagle

(334) 229.6755 toneastewartcamps.com

ad on page 26

4700 Wares Ferry Road, Montgomery, AL 36109 Eight one-week sessions from June 7-July 30.

Camp Eagle is a FUN-tastic first class Christian day camp for ALL kids ages 5-completed 5th grade. Come experience a summer of fun at Camp Eagle. Every single day is filled with an exciting variety of activities. Your child will participate daily in recreational and cooperative games, arts and crafts, sports activities, academic components, praise time, swimming, free time field trips and more.

Ages: 5 Years - Completed 5th Grade (334) 277-1985 dsanford@alabamachristian.org acacampeagle.org

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts Summer Camps ad on page 75

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts, 1 Museum Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 The MMFA is super excited about the plans we are making for this year’s summer camp program. The safety and protection of our visitors and staff are of the utmost importance and we are making sure we are developing summer camp opportunities that meet the protocols and guidelines that the Museum continues to follow and monitor. Please check back in April when we will roll out our new plans for Junior camp (ages 5-8) and Youth camp (ages 9-12) for both on-site and saferat-home camp options.

Ages: Age varies by camp

915 S. Jackson Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 June 7-July 16, All camps combined.

Ages: Ages varies by camp

Barb’s Summer Art Camp

Nancy’s Italian Ice, Sturbridge Shopping Center, Montgomery, AL 36116 Summer ART with Barb Grimes at Nancy’s Ice Paint a canvas - for ages 3 and up. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, May 25 to July 29, 10:30 am, $15 includes Free Ice Treat Ages: Ages 3 and up (334) 546-2233 barbsonmulberry.com www.facebook.com/barbsonmulberry.com

Montgomery Catholic Prep School Drama Camp

5350 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Dates to be announced Ages: 1st-7th Grade (334) 272.7221 montgomerycatholic.org

Montgomery Music Project Summer Camp

2416 W Cloverdale Park, 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.

Ages: Age varies by camp (901) 603.0420 montgomerymusicproject@gmail.com montgomerysymphony.org

P’zazz Art Studio

138 W. Main St., Prattville, AL 36066 Weekly Classes and Camps. Please check the website for dates and times.

Ages: Age varies by camp

(334) 625.4365 bmorrison@mmfa.org mmfa.org

(334) 354.1975 kaseyau@gmail.com pzazzart.com

Art Buzz Kids Camp

Paint & Clay Studio

(334) 245.3387 montgomery.al@wineanddesign.com wineanddesign.com/montgomeryal

(334) 819.4450 Facebook under Paint & Clay

Wine & Design, 7732 Eastchase Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dates: TBA Ages: Age varies by camp

River Region Parents I March 2021

4319 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery, AL 36109 Paint your own pottery or canvas. Full and half day Summer camps. First week of June until school starts. Visit us on Facebook.

Ages: Ages 5 & up

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Spicer’s Garage Band Camp

2140 E University Drive, Suite K, Auburn, AL 36830 About Rock Camp, Jr.: June 21-25, July 5-9 or July 19-23, Ages 6-7 About Rock Camp: June 7-11, Ages 8-11 About Rock Camp Pro: June 14-18, Ages 12-18 Camp Kazoo: June 28-July 1 or July 12-15; Ages 3-5 Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 329.7529 garagebandcamp@gmail.com spicersmusic.com

Stringfellows Summer Music Seminar

507 Columbus Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Stringfellows Summer Music Seminar, Dates to be decided.

Ages: 7th-9th Grade (334) 240-4004 MontgomerySymphony.org

Dance/Gymnastics/ Cheer Camps Alabama Dance Theatre ad on page 27

Armory Learning Arts Center, 1018 Madison Ave. Montgomery, AL 36104 June 7-July 8; The Alabama Dance Theatre will be offering summer classes in Classical Ballet (pre-ballet to the professional level), Modern, Jazz, Hip-Hop, Contemporary, Composition/Choreography and Broadway. Highlights of summer classes include a new class Broadway, classical ballet training and creative movement classes open to ages 3 and up.

Tutus and Tiaras Camp for ages 3-8 on June 1-4 from 9:30-12:30.

Classes will include pre-ballet, creative movement, crafts, and story time.

Stars on the Riverfront at the Amphitheater will be July 25-26 at 7:30. Free to the public.

Please feel free to bring a picnic.

Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 625.2590 alabamadancetheatre.com

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Alabama River Region Ballet ad on page 9

Festival Plaza, 7981 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 Fairytale Ballet Camp: June 7-11, July 12-16, 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. Week 1 will be “Coppelia” and Week 2 will be “Cinderella”. Snacks served daily. Both weeks will end with an in-studio performance for family of the dancers. Dancers should wear pink tights, pink ballet slippers and leotard of choice. $125 per child.

ARRB Summer Dance Camp (Ages 8-10): June 7-11 & July 12-16, Monday-Friday, 1-4 p.m.

A two-week Summer Dance Camp. Dancers will take daily classes in Ballet and Jazz, taught

by ARRBís School Director, Kyana Goodyear and ARRB Associate Artistic Director, Curran Tellalian. The dancers will also learn about Ballet History, Terminology, and about different classical ballets. Snacks provided. One week: $125.

ARRB Summer Intensive Seminar: June 21-July 2, Monday-Friday, 10 am-2:30 a.m. A two-week Intensive Summer Seminar for intermediate and advanced students, ages 11-18 with a minimum one year of experience on pointe.

Daily classes in Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Jazz, Modern and Contemporary taught by some of the most talented guest artists and ARRB teachers. Includes a repertory of classes that focus on improving the dancers technique, as well as the opportunity to learn new choreography, and choreography from the classical repertory. Rehearsals will be under the direction of the ARRB faculty. At the end of the two-week seminar, family and friends are invited to attend a performance showcasing the dancers and the choreography of the guest artists. Cost: $375 A 10% discount for early registration on our summer programs through the month of April.

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

Tonya Speed’s Dance Connection ad on page 29

3370 Harrison Rd, Montgomery, AL 36109 Make plans for fun summer camps! All day and week long. We plan to offer June & July camps!

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

Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 277.1098 Facebook: Tonya-Speeds-Dance-Connection

work and variations) Camps will end with a performance!

Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 467.8603 ballerinasrule@msn.com cjsdancefactory.com

Montgomery Ballet

6100 Brewbaker Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36116 June 8- July 31 - 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.

Ages: Age varies by camp

1062 Woodley Road, Montgomery, Al 36106 Bop-N-Tots Pop Star Camp: 4-6pm, June 21-25 Peanuts Dance and Party: 10am-12pm; June 28July 2 and Ballerina Princess Camp: Time:4-6pm, July 5-9. Ages: 3+ Cost: $75 Per Student Montgomery Ballet Schools Intermediate Summer intensive: Time: 2-6 pm. June 28- July2 or July 12-16, Ages: 7-15, Cost: $25 registration fee, one week intensive is $350 two weeks is $650.

Montgomery Ballet Schools Advanced Summer Intensive: Time: 10-2pm, June 21-25 or July 5-9 Ages: 15-18, Cost: $25 registration fee, one week intensive is $350 two weeks is $650

Armory Athletics

Pike Road Dance Academy

United Gymstars & Cheer Camp ad on page 57

(334) 284.2244 unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

1018 Madison Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36104 Kids Summer Camp, June 8-July 31 Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Full Day, Weekly, $150; Daily, $35 Sports and recreation, swimming, arts & crafts, and educational field trips! Parents, please provide lunches, swim wear & towel, concession money, and socks and closed toed shoes for field trips. Pre-register for each week is required and enrollment begins March 1.

Costs: $50 registration fee $25/week for early drop off at 7:30am $5/day for early drop off at 7:30am $25/week for late pickup at 5pm $5/day for late pick up at 5pm Ages: Ages 5-14 (334) 625.2789 armoryathletics1@gmail.com armoryathletics.com

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

Prattville Ballet, 145 S. Court Street, Prattville, AL 36067 All Summer Dance Camps will be June 17th-July 22nd including: Princess Ballerina Camp- Ages 3-8, princess dance activities with a different princess each week! Power Tumble- Ages 5 and up, polish your tumble skills! Classical Ballet Technique- Intermediate/Advanced level (pointe

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(334) 409-0522 info@montgomeryballet.org

The Marks House, 890 Old Carter Hill Road, Pike Road, AL 36064 Princess Ballet Camp, June 21-24 Cost: $75; 2/3 year olds from 9-10:30 a.m.

4/5 year old from 10:30-12p.m.

Kidz Bop Dance Jamz Jazz and Hip Hop Camp: June 21-24 from 1-3 p.m.; Cost: $125 Ages: 6-12 Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 782.9200 pikeroaddance@gmail.com pikeroaddance.com

Day Camps Expedition Lanark Alabama Nature Center ad on page 22

3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook, AL 36054 Camp dates and sessions offered from June 1st through August 6th. 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.

Tadpole Camp for ages 5 years.

Nature Navigators for ages 6-7 years.

Trail Blazers 4-day camp for ages 8-9.

Heritage Explorers for ages 10-11.

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High Adventure for ages 12-15.

Counselors in Training for ages 12-15.

ARTventure for ages 8-12.

Boys in Action (BIA) for boys ages 10-15.

Fishing Fundamentals for ages 10-15.

Gross Out Camp Sponsored by Fresh Air Family for ages 6-9.

Busy Bee Camp for ages 10-15 (334) 285.4550 alabamawildlife.org

Trinity School Day Camps ad on page 17

Trinity Presbyterian School, 1700 East Trinity Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36106 Camp Dates and ages to be announced soon.

Please refer to Trinity Presbyterian School website for more information at www.trinitywildcats. com/summercamps.

Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 213.2100 trinitywildcats.com

4-H Day Clubs

340 Queen Ann Road, Wetumpka, AL Elmore and Autauga 4-H Summer Camp 4-H Center on Lay Lake, June 9-11 Ages: 9-14; Cost: $150 (334) 567.6301 laurie.weldon@auburn.edu Facebook: Elmore County 4-H

Alabama State University SKYCAP/IMSET 2021

Ralph David Abernathy Auditorium, 915 S. Jackson Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Dates to be decided. Half and full-day programs.

Academics, computers, arts and fitness. A variety of courses to expand and peak your child’s imagination, sharpen academic skills and introduce them to physical fitness activities.

Ages: 1st-12th Grade (334) 229.4686 or (334) 229.4317 alasu.edu/continuingeducation

Camp Grandview — YMCA

4700 Camp Grandview Rd, Millbrook, AL 36054 Dates: May 25 - August 6 Length: Weekly basis Located on 190-wooded acres, YMCA Camp Grandview includes two beautiful lakes, a waterpark, horse barn, athletic fields, hiking trails, mud pits, disc golf, archery, riflery, Re Hall, and historic lodge. Transportation is available from Montgomery at no extra cost.

Ages: Ages 5-15 (334) 290.9622 ymcamontgomery.org

Camp Sunshine for Boys

3067 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 Dates TBA Ages: Ages 6-11 (334) 262.2697 tukabatcheebsa.org

Camp Tukabatchee

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

Week 1: June 13-19; Week 2: June 20-26 Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 977.2688 tukabatcheebsa.org

Montgomery Zoo

2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, AL 36110 BRING HOME THE GOLD! Make summer vacation a wildlife adventure that you will never forget.

Join kids of similar ages and interests for a funpacked, educational experience themed around ZOOLYMPICS. See daily live animal presentations; get up close and personal with some of the Educational animals at the Montgomery Zoo; enjoy scavenger hunts; craft time; classroom time; playtime, train, and sky lift rides; participate in animal encounters with the giraffes, river otters, parakeets and our collection of petting zoo animals; see behind the scene tours and visits with our zookeepers, and other staff members.

River Region Parents I March 2021

Camps are available for ages 5-12 years old; full-day camps.

June 7-11: Junior Zookeeper Week, 11-12 year olds June 14-18: 9-10 year olds June 21-25: 9-10 year olds June 28 - July 2: 7-8 year olds July 12-16: 7-8 year olds July 19-23: 5-6 year olds July 26-30: 5-6 year olds Ages: Age varies by camp

For more information Please contact the YMCA Bradford Branch at 358-9622.

Ages: Age varies by camp

YMCA Cleveland Branch

(334) 567-8282 ymcamontgomery.org

(334) 240.4900

www.montgomeryzoo.com

1201 Rosa L. Parks Ave, Montgomery, AL 36108 10 weeks of Youth Specialty Camps, May 31 until August 6.

Ages: Ages 3-12 (334) 265.0566 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA East Branch

3407 Pelzer Ave, Montgomery, AL 36109 10 weeks of Youth Specialty Camps, May 31 until August 6.

Ages: Ages 5-13 (334) 272.3390 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Goodtimes

2325 Mill Ridge Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Summer Camp Dates, May 31 until August 6.

Ages: Ages 5-14 (334) 279-8666 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Kershaw

2225 West Fairview Ave, Montgomery, AL 36108 Summer Camp Dates, May 31 until August 6.

Ages: Ages 5-12 (334) 265.1433 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Montgomery Emory Folmar Soccer Complex

300 Brown Springs Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 The YMCA of Greater Montgomery is inspiring youth by teaching the fundamentals of the game of soccer. These skills will assist in the overall development of the youth that are participating.

They will learn how to pass, shoot, one-touch, throw -in, free kick, penalty kick, goal keeping, offense and defense. Participants will have comprehension of the rules and terminology of the game of soccer. Please check our website for Soccer Camp dates and details.

Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 396.9754 ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Prattville

Smith Branch and East Bradford Branch, 600 East Main Street and 972 McQueen Smith Rd. S, Prattville , AL 36067 Summer Day Camp, girls and boys ages 6-12.

Begins June 7-July 30. Mon. – Friday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Summer Day Camps are available at the Daniel Pratt, Main and Pine Level locations.

For more information contact the YMCA Childcare Branch 358-1446 Gymnastics and Cheer Camp, Ages 5 ½ and up.

Dates to be announced. For more information call YMCA Don M. Smith Branch, 365.8852 Super Summer Sport Camps, Mon-Thurs, 9 a.m.12 p.m. YMCA Bradford Branch – 358-9622 Sports Camp Dates will be available May 1.

Girls’ Volleyball Camp, Ages 8-12 Girls’ Basketball Camp, Ages 6-12 Boys’ Basketball Camp, Ages 6-12 Fishing Camp, Ages 8-16 Boys’ Baseball Camp, Ages 6-12 Girls Softball Camp, Ages 6-12 Soccer Camp, Ages 6-12 Outdoor Adventure Camp: Boys & Girls, ages 9-16. Members and Non-Members. Dates will be available May 1.

Camp 2:22 (Jr. High): Begins June 7. MondayFriday from 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. Boys and Girls entering 7th-9th grades.

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

YMCA Wetumpka

200 Red Eagle Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Summer Camp Dates, May 28- August 13.

Please call for more information.

Ages: Ages 5-12

YMCA Wilson

1445 New Park Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Summer Camp Dates, May 28- August 13.

Please call for more information Ages: Ages 5-12 (334) 356.8471 ymcamontgomery.org

Education/Science/ Technology Camps Alabama Dyslexia Summer Village ad on page 18

June 21 to July 30, 2021. Don’t let summer slide stop your dyslexic learner from shining all year long. Online camp for grades 2-8. $400 for 6 weeks of daily small group virtual reading instruction using Neuhaus Basic Language Skills.

Ages: Grades 2-8 www.aldyslexiavillage.com

Mathnasium Summer Power Math Workout Programs ad on page 33

3453 Malcolm Drive (Taylor Road at Billingsley Place Promenade), Montgomery, AL 36117 Mathnasium in the Summertime 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 Friday and Saturday Closed Ages: 2nd-12th Grade (334) 356.1570 mathnasium.com/eastmontgomery

Sylvan Individualized Tutoring Camp ad on page 31

4240 Lomac Street, Montgomery, AL 36106 5 Week Summer Session, June 1-29 Choose your 5 week session or come for the whole summer. 2 hour session twice a week.

Monday-Thursday from 9:30-11:30, 1:30-3:30 and 4:30-6:30. $130 per week with a $95 Registration fee and 50% Assessment Testing for New Students.

(334) 262.0043 CD@montgomerysylvan.com sylvanlearning.com/Montgomery

ACT Bootcamp

Mountain View Baptist Church, 1025 Rifle Range Rd, Wetumpka, AL 36093 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 Saturday 9-5, and Monday through

www.riverregionparents.com

Thursday 8-5, and includes book, practice tests, handouts, water, snacks, and 40 hours of testing and instruction.

Cost: $300, New Student and 20% discount , returning student.

Ages: Ages 14 and up

Horseback Riding/ Equestrian Camps

(334) 524.7371 leestestprep.com

Montgomery Catholic Prep School Girls Who Code Camp

5350 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Girls Who Code Camp: Dates and details TBD This camp will be an introduction to coding using AppInventor and Scratch. Girls will learn how to code mobile apps, animation, and even simple video games.

Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 272.7221 montgomerycatholic.org

Science Matters Camp

Auburn University, 249 Sciences Center, Auburn, AL 36849 June 7-July 30. Science Matters is a summer enrichment program for elementary students offering a supercharged science experience.

Camp sessions broken down by 1st/2nd, 3rd/4th, 5th/6th and 7th/8th graders.

Ages:Age varies by camp (334) 844.5769 auburn.edu/cosam/departments/ outreach/programs

SCORE 2021

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 June 1-July 30; Eleven - one week sessions for Grades 3rd-9th. Age varies by camp. Camps will cover Robotics, Engineering, Design, 3D Design and 3D Printing while solving everyday problems and the Foundations for STEM through various robotics platforms.

Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 844.8125 jss007@auburn.edu scoreau.org

Snapology

Wetumpka, AL Take time off your hands while your kids play, learn, and make life long friends. We offer amazing themes for our camps and workshops yearround including spring break camps and summer camps, Robotics and STEM Camped offered during the summer.

Ages:Ages 6-14 (334) 318.2824 snapology.com

Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 3

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 Details can be found under Overnight Camps.

(800) 882.0722 riverviewcamp.com

MANE’s Unified Summer Camp

3699 Wallahatchie Road, Pike Road, AL 36064 MANE’s Unified Summer Camp dates to be announced soon.

Ages: Ages 4-14 (334) 213.0909 maneweb.org

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp for Girls Lookout Mountain, 606 Valley View Ranch Road, Cloudland, GA 30731 Horse lovers’ paradise since 1954! A’top Lookout Mountain, for 50 girls, 8-17; 4-2 week sessions, 600 acres, English, Western, Barrels, Vaulting, and Trails. CHA instructors teach beginner to advanced riders. Spend 4-6 hours daily with your OWN camp horse. The Jones family are third generation horse lovers, camp administrators, and equine educators making girls dreams come true!

Ages: Girls, 8-17 (706) 862-2231 info@valleyviewranch.com valleyviewranch.com

Martial Arts Camp NextGen at NextGen Martial Arts in Prattville 698 Old Farm Lane, Prattville, AL 36066 Dates to be announced.

Ages: Age varies by camp

334) 590-3759 todd@nextgenmartialarts.com nextgenmartialarts.com

Docarmo’s Summer Karate Camp

3447 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery, AL 36116 Summer Day Camp Dates: June 7-11, June 14-

18, June 21-25, July 12-16 and July 19-23.

Please visit our website or call for information.

Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 220.5835 trytkdfree.com

Family Karate Center

Peppertree Shopping Center, 8159 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Kids Karate camp for summer program offered every day. Ages 2 years old and up.

Ages: Ages 2+ (334) 277.4911

Overnight Camps Camp Victory ad on page 19

363 Victory Circle, Samson, AL 36477 Weekly sessions beginning, June 7 – July 30; coed camp. Air conditioned cabins. Activities include Giant Swing, Zipline, Swimming Pool, Volleyball, Bunker Ball, Riflery & Archery, Tetherball, Mini Golf, Canoes, Kayaks, Pedal Boats, Basketball, Crafts, Carpetball, Ping Pong, Foosball, Fishing, Low Ropes Challenge Course, Indoor Climbing Wall, Bible Classes, Outdoor Education, Missionary Presentations, Chapel Services and Cabin Devotions; Trained Christian staff who live in cabins with campers; evening chapel. Affiliated with the Children’s Bible Mission.

Ages: 2nd-12th Grade (334) 898.7948 office@campvictoryal.org campvictoryal.org

Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 3

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 June 6-August 1 Short Term 1-week sessions – (ages 6-12) Long Term 2-week sessions – (ages 6-16) Customized Combination of 2-9 weeks.

Other: ACA accredited. Free video and catalog.

Non-denominational Christian camp. More than 15 activity choices available, including riding, climbing tower and ropes course. New pool and new tennis courts.

Ages: Ages 6-16, varies by camp (800) 882.0722 riverviewcamp.com

HELPING YOU GET HEALTHY IN THE NEW YEAR!

$10 off $60 purchase

www.herbshopwellness.com 59

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Ages: Ages 7-15, Boys (256) 634.4066 info@camplaney.com camplaney.com

Camp Mac Summer Camp for Boys and Girls

2671 Cheaha Road, Munford, AL 36268 6 Day Mini Terms, Grades 1st4th grade; 11 day Junior Terms, Grades 2nd-6th grade; Senior Terms, 3rd-8th Grade.

Camp Sessions: June 1-August 1 Ages: 1st-8th Grade (256) 362.7449 office@campmac. com campmac.com

Camp Marannook

Adventure Treks

1899 Berea Church Road, Hendersonville, NC 28739 Pacific Northwest, British Columbia, Yellowstone, California, Ultimate Northwest, Alaska, and Leadership Summit. Each 13–30 day Adventure includes a wide variety of exciting wilderness activities such as rock climbing, whitewater rafting, sea kayaking, mountain biking, canoeing, mountaineering, and backpacking in some of the most breathtaking scenery in western.

Ages: Ages 12-18 (888) 954.5555 info@adventuretreks.com adventuretreks.com

Alpine Camp for Boys

P. O. Box 297, Mentone, AL 35984 Call for CD-ROM with video; Junior Camp: (Grades 1-5) June 1-9; (Grades 2-9) First Term: June 11-July 6; (Grades 2-9) Second Term: July 9-Aug 3.

Ages: Age varies by camp (256) 634.4404 summer@alpinecamp.com alpinecamp.com

Camp Alamisco

1771 Camp Alamisco, Dadeville, AL 36853 Aquatics Camp, June 6-13, ages 13-17 Adventure Camp, June 6-13, ages 7-9.

Junior Camp, June 13-20, ages 10-12.

Teen Camp, June20-27, ages 13-16.

Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 272.7493 Alamiscocamp@gmail.com campalamisco.org

Camp Chandler - YMCA

1240 Jordan Dam Road, Wetumpka, AL 36092 Scouts (5-8 Year Olds): 4 Sessions- June 6-8, June 13-15, July 11-13 and July 18-20 Explorer Program (7-9 Year Olds): 4 SessionsJune 6-8, June 13-15, July 11-13 and July 18-20 Rangers (8-14 Year Olds): 8 Sessions- June 6-11, June 13-18, July 20-25, June 27-July 2, July 4-9, July 11-16, July 18-23 and July 25-30.

Specialty Camps: June 13-18, June 20-25, June 27 - July 2, July 4-9, July 11-16, July 18-23 and July 25-30.

LIT’s Leaders in Training (15 Year Olds): 2 Sessions- June 13-July 2 and July 11-30 Camp Chandler Day Camp (ages 5-12) River Region Parents I March 2021

5 Sessions- June7-12, June 14-19, June 2126,June 28-July 3, July 5-10, July 12-17, July 19-24 and July 26-31.

Ages :Age varies by camp

(334) 269.4362 campchandler@mcamontgomery.org campchandler.org

Camp Coleman

Camp Coleman, AL 35173 Day Camp (Grades 1-7): June 14-18, June 21-25, June 27-July 2; Resident camp (Ages 6-14): June 13-18, 20-25, 27-July 2. There is the opportunity for Counselors in Training, 11th and 12th grades June 13-25.

Ages: Age varies by camp (256) 365.2970 or (800) 734.4541 girlscoutsnca.org

Camp Cosby - Birmingham YMCA

2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road, Alpine, AL 35014 Eight different sessions ranging in many different age groups. Camp dates begin on Sunday, June 6 -July 31. Ages 6-16.

Ages: Ages 6-16 (800) 852.6729 cinfo@campcosby.org www.campcosby.org

Camp Hollymont for Girls

339 Nacoochee Drive, Rabun Gap, GA 30568 Length: 6,13, 20 or 27 days; Camps Dates begin June 13-July 23.

Ages:Ages 7-15, Girls (828) 686.5343 4info@hollymont.com hollymont.com

Camp Juliette Low

321 Camp Juliette Low Rd, Cloudland, GA 30731 Dates: 6/6 – 7/31; Length: 1, 2, & 3 weeks; Girls only.

Ages: Ages 7-17 (770) 862.2169 info@cjl.org cjl.org

Camp Kiwanis

2365 Camp Kiwanis Road, Eclectic, AL 36024 2 Sessions available: June 27-July 2 or July 5-10.

Ages: 2nd-12th Grade (800) 239.6636 girlscoutssa.org

Camp Laney

916 West River Road, Mentone, AL 35984 4- 2 Week sessions. Sessions June 6-Augus 1.

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10425 Veterans Memorial Pkwy., Lafayette, AL 36862 June 2-July 23; Residential and Day Camps.

From sunrise to after sunset, every camp day is packed with fun.

Campers will swim, shoot archery, make crafts, eat s’mores around the campfire, and play games on the game field. They explore a huge maze, ride the cable car and crazy swing and are challenged by various rope and climbing activities. And there is a one-ofa-kind Bible Time with skits and drama. When the campers arrive, the counselors are ready to build relationships and to share the love of Christ through these relationships.

Ages: 1st-10th Grade (334) 864.7504 marannook.org

Camp Merri Mac

1123 Montreat Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711 June 7-August 12; Length:1 (starter camp for first time campers), 2, 3, 4, & 5 weeks.

Ages: Grades 1st-11th, Girls (828) 669.8766 mail@merri-mac.com merri-mac.com

Camp Scoutshire Woods, Girl Scout Camp 6051 Scoutshire Camp, Citronelle, AL 36522 Summer sessions available. Sessions begin June 13-June 25.

Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 239.6636 girlscoutssa.org

Camp Sea Gull and Camp Seafarer

218 Sea Gull Landing, Arapahoe, NC 28510 6/6 – 8/6; Length: 1, 2, & 4 week session.

Ages: Ages 6-16 (252) 249.1111 or (252) 249.1212 seagull-seafarer.org

Camp Skyline Ranch

4888 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, AL 35984 June 6-Augus 1 Four 2 wk. sessions; Three 1 week sessions.

Ages: Ages 6-16, Girls (800) 448.9279 info@campskyline.com campskyline.com

Camp Stanislaus

304 South Beach Blvd., Bay St. Louis, MS 39520 Dates: 6/20 – 7/16; Length: 1, 2, 3 and 4 week sessions.

Ages: Ages 8-15, Boys (228) 467.9057 camp@ststan.com campstanislaus.com

Camp Timberlake

1123 Montreat Road, Black Mountain, NC 28711 May 21-August 12; Length:1 (starter camp for first time campers), 2, 3, 4, & 5 weeks.

www.riverregionparents.com

Ages: Grades 1st-11th, Boys (828) 669.8766 info@camptimberlake.com camptimberlake.com

guage studies a prerequisite for most sessions.

Ages: 10th-12th Grade (800) 345.2929 experiment.org

Ages: Ages 14+ (888) 756.2627 challenge@ncobs.org ncoutwardbound.com

Camp Trico

Falling Creek Camp for Boys

Ponderosa Bible Camp

(828) 692.0262 fallingcreek.com

(256) 634.4397 ponderosabiblecamp.com

Lake Forest Ranch

Rising Star, Savannah College of Art & Design

315 Trico Drive, Guntersville, AL 35967 3 Resident Camp sessions: July 11-16, July 11-23 and July 18-23.

Ages: Grades 1st-11th (800) 734.4541 girlscoutsnca.org

Camp Walkabout

171 Baylor School Road, Chattanooga, TN 37405 Camp Walkabout begins June 6-19.

Discoverers (Ages 8-11), 2 sessions; Adventurers (Ages 12-14), 1 session Ages: Ages 8-16 (423) 267.8506, Ext. 827 admission@baylorschool.org baylorschool.org

Camp Widjiwagan

3088 Smith Springs Road, Antioch, TN 37013 Dates: 6/6-8/1: Ten sessions. Summer Camp for Boys and Girls.

Ages: Ages 7-15 (615) 360.2267 campwidji.org

Camp Woodmont

381 Moonlight Drive, Cloudland, GA 30731 Dates: 5/30-7/30: Nine one-week sessions and Four 2-week sessions. Summer Camp for Boys and Girls.

Ages: Ages 6-14 (706) 398.0739 campwoodmont.com

Cub Camp

3067 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 Session 1: June 12-13 Ages: Grades 1st-5th (800) 977.2688 tukabatcheebsa.org

Cub Scout Webelos Resident Camp, Camp Hobbs

3067 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 Session 1: June 17-20; Session 2: June 24-27.

Ages: Grades 1st-5th (800) 977.2688 tukabatcheebsa.org

Experiment in International Living

1015 15th Street NW, Washington , DC 20005 June 27-Aug. 2. Must have completed 9th grade. 3, 4 or 5-week programs. Foreign lan-

P.O. Box 98, Tuxedo, NC 28784 1 week sessions to 4 week sessions Camp Dates: June 6-August 6.

Ages: 1st-12th Grade, Boys

5326 Lake Forest Road, Macon, MS 39341 Sessions beginning May 29 through Aug.1.

Summer camp experience for children (ages 7-12) and teenagers (ages 11-18). There are twelve exciting camp sessions available from which to choose.

Ages: Age varies by camp (662) 726.5052 info@lakeforestranch.com lakeforestranch.com

McWane Science Center Summer Camp

200 19th Street North, Birmingham, AL 35203 June 7-Augus 6. Eight one-week sessions for each age level. Students entering 1st through 7th grade will be full day camps. Pre K-Kindergarten will remain half day camps.

Ages: Age varies by camp (205) 714.8300 mcwane.org

Moondance Adventures

209 10th Ave. S, Ste. 322, Nashville, TN 37203 Dates: 6/8 - 7/30; Length: 14, 17, 21, 23 and 24 days.

Ages: Ages 12-18 (800) 832.5229 info@moondanceadeventures.com moondanceadventures.com

Museum Expedition Archaeology Camp

P.O. Box 870340, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Discover Alabama’s diverse natural history by participating in the Annual Museum Expedition Camp! Dates TBA Ages: Grades 6th-12th, Varies by camp (205) 348.7550 museum.expedition@ua.edu amnh.ua.edu

North Carolina Outward Bound

2582 Riceville Road, Asheville, NC 28805 Year Round Programs; Length: 4-78 days;

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1018 County Road, Mentone, AL 35984 Dates: 6/13- 7/9; Length: One week; and Leadership Training Program for 11th and 12th graders.

Ages: Age varies by camp

P.O. Box 2072, Savannah, GA 31402 Virtual Dates: June 21-July 22. Open to students who completed junior year of high school.

Ages: Rising 12th Grade (800) 869.7223 and Atlanta, GA; (877) 722.3285 contact@scad.edu scad.edu/risingstar

Sail Caribbean

256 Main Street, STE# 1203, Northport, NY 11768 June 27-Aug. 23. Length: Programs range from 14 to 21 days.

Ages: 11-18+ (800) 321.0994 bvi_office1@sailcaribbean.com sailcaribbean.com

Twin Lakes Camp

155 Milner Road, Florence, MS 39073 Eight one-week sessions available from June 7-July 24.

Ages: Ages 6-12 (601) 845.6858 twinlakescamp.org

U.S. Space Camp and Aviation Challenge

One Tranquility Base, Huntsville, AL 35805 Dates: Runs year round; Summer Program is May -August, call for pricing.

Ages: Ages 9 and up (800) 637.7223 spacecamp.com

YMCA Camp Ocoee

111 YMCA Drive, Ocoee, TN 37361 June 6-July 31. Ages: Ranger 7-15; Teen Leadership and Specialty Camps, 16-17.

Ages: Age varies by camp (423) 338.5588 ocoee@ix.netcom.com campocoee.com.

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Special Needs Camp ASCCA-Easter Seals

Camp ASCCA, 5278 Camp ASCCA Drive, Jackson Gap, AL 36861 Seven 1-week sessions. Ages 6 and up.

Camps dates will be July 4-August 20.

Ages: Age varies by camp

(256) 825.9226 info@campascca.org campascca.org

Camp Seale Harris

Camp ASCCA, 5278 Camp ASCCA Drive, Jackson Gap, AL 36861 Junior Camp (ages 6 - 13), June 13-18; Senior Camp (ages 12 - 18),June 5-11; Coastal Camp (ages 10-18), July 25-30.

Ages:Age varies by camp (205) 402.0415 info@campsealeharris.org campsealeharris.org

Sports Camps Alabama Christian Academy Basketball Camp

tion of providing a variety of sports and cheerleader camps for young people. Printed information will be available soon and will include cost, age groups and other pertinent information. Call Katie Barton, Interim athletic director, or the individual coaches at (334) 277.8033, ext. 145.

Keith Luckey Baseball Camp; 1st -5th grade, June 6-9 from 9 a.m. - 11:30.

Keith Luckey Baseball Camp; 6th grade and above, June 6-9 from 1-3:30 p.m.

Baseball Pitching Clinic for 5th grade and up, June 10, 9a.m. - Noon.

Katie Barton Girls Basketball Camp for 2nd – 8th, June 6-9, 9 a.m. -Noon.

Nigel Card Boys Basketball Camp for 4th – 8th grade, June 14-17, 9 a.m.-Noon.

Mark Hall Softball Camp for 2nd – 8th grade, TBA, 9 a.m.-Noon.

Jeff Corley Wrestling Camp for 1st-5th grade and 6th-12th grade, June 22-24, 8-10 a.m. for Grades 1st-5th and 10 a.m.-12 p.m. for Grades 6th-12th.

Karen Lee Volleyball Camp for 3rd - 8th grade, July 5-7, 9 a.m.-Noon.

Saint James Youth Cheerleader Camp for Pre-K3 – 6th grade, TBA, 9 a.m.-Noon.

Jimmy Perry Boys Football Camp, Ages 5-13, July 26-28, 8:30-11:30 a.m.

Ages: Age varies by camp

ad on page 26

(334) 277.8033, ext. 145 stjweb.org

(334) 277.1985 alabamachristian.org

Trinity School Sports Camps

4700 Wares ferry Road, Montgomery, AL 36109 Dates: TBA; Please call for more information.

Faulkner University Baseball Camps ad on page 25

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.

Session 1: June 14-17, 2021 $ 150.00 Session 2: June 21-24, 2021 $ 150.00

ad on page 17

Auburn Tiger Junior Golf Camp

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 TBA; This camp will benefit all ages and all skill levels from beginner to advanced.

Ages: Ages 9-18 (334) 844.9657 auburntigergolfcamps.com

Auburn Tiger Softball Camp

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 Dates to be announced.

Ages: Ages 12-19 (334) 844.9515 auburntigers.com

Auburn Tiger Swim Camp

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 26849 Short/long Axis Camp, May 14-15; Power & Speed Camp II, May 21-22; Overnight Camp Session I, May 30-June 3; Overnight Session II, June 6-10; Power & Speed Camp III, June 25-26; and Overnight Camp session III, June 27-July 1.

Ages 10-18.

Ages: Ages 10-18 auswimcamps@gmail.com auburnwareagleswimcamps.com

Auburn University Baseball Camps

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 Team Camp, TBA; Pitcher/Catching/Infield Camp, TBA; Youth Camp, (ages 7-12) TBA; High school Showcase Camp, TBA. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 844.4975 auburntigersbaseballcamp.com

1700 E. Trinity Blvd, Montgomery, AL 36106 Baseball Camp, TB ; Kindergarten thru 6th grade Lady Wildcats Basketball; Dates TBD / 2nd-5th grade Basketball Camp (boys): Dates TBD/ 3rd-8th grade Dance Camp July 28 & 29/ K3-5th grade Cheer Camp July 26 & 27/ K3-5th grade

Auburn Volleyball Camp

Softball Camp: Date TBD/ 1st-8th grade Football Camp, Dates: TBD ***more to come Please refer to Trinity Presbyterian School website for more information at www.trinitywildcats.com/ summercamps.

Ages: Age varies by camp

Auburn Women’s Soccer Camps

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 8 sessions based on skill set. TBD. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 844.9637 auburntigers.com

334-386-7980 pmccarthy@faulkner.edu www.faulknerbaseballcamps.com/camps

Macon East Academy Sports Camps ad on page 20

15396 Vaughn Road, Cecil, AL 36013 Dates to be announced. Camps include Elementary baseball, soccer, volleyball, basketball and football. All camps open to the public.

Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 277.6566 maconeast.net

O’Connor Tennis Camps ad on page 55

500 Anderson Street, Montgomery, AL 36107 Summer Camps: Monday - Thursday, Age 4-6 9:00-10:00 AM; $50 per day with advance registration or $60 per week, $15 per day drop in.

Age 7-16, 9:00-11:00 AM, $100 per week with advance registration or $120 per week, $30 per day drop in.

June 7-10, June 14-17, June 21-24, June 28-July 1, July 12-15, July 19-22, July 26-29 Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 240.4884 bbradshaw10s@gmail.com oconnortenniscenter.com

Saint James School Sports Camps ad on page 1

6010 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Saint James School will continue its summer tradiRiver Region Parents I March 2021

(334) 213.2100 trinitywildcats.com

Auburn Tiger Football Camps

Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 Camp Dates: TBA. Thirteen themed sessions based on skill set.

Ages:Grades 3rd-12th, Age varies by camp auburnfootballcamps.com

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Auburn University, Auburn, AL 36849 June Elite Camp, June 4-6 (rising 8th-12th) ; June Day Camp, June 7-10 (ages 5-12); Auburn Soccer Goalkeeper and Skills Academy, June 11-12 (ages 11-18) ; July Day Camp, July 12-15 (9-18 years old); July Elite Camp, July 16-18 (rising 8th-12th) and July 23-25, (ages 9-18) Ages:Age varies by camp (334) 844.9637 auburnsoccercamp.com

AUM Sports Camps

7400 East Drive, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dates to be announced in the spring. Please

www.riverregionparents.com

check our website for Camp information.

Ages:Age varies by camp (334) 244.3000 aumathletics.com

Faulkner Sports Camps

Faulkner University, 5345 Atlanta Hwy., Montgomery, AL 36109 Instruction from professional players.

TBA (Youth Session I) $125 TBA (Youth Session II) $125 All-Star Warm up Camp:TBA (Session III is from 8-11:30 am each day) Ages: Ages 6-17 (334) 386.7148 faulkner.edu

FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Blvd., Montgomery, AL 36117 (indoor/air conditioned) Coach Bruno (Former pro & College coach - Masters Phy. Ed.) Camp Dates: TBD (5 Sessions) Dates TBA. Ages: Ages 7-14 (334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com fcmontgomery.com

Huntingdon College Baseball Camps

1500 East Fairview Ave., Montgomery, AL 36106 Dates to be announced. 1st session- High School Showcase Skills Camp, Grades 9-12 2nd session- Fundamentals Camp, ages 5-15.

Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 833.4501 huntingdonhawks.com

Huntingdon College Basketball Camps 1500 East Fairview Avenue, Montgomery, AL 36106 Variety of Basketball Camps, Dates TBA Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 833.4399 huntingdonhawks.com

Huntingdon College Soccer I.D. Camp

University of Alabama Football Camp

(334) 833.4316 hchawkssoccercamps.com

(205) 348.0808 rolltide.com

Huntingdon College Summer Youth Academy for Soccer

University of Alabama Men’s Basketball Camp

1500 East Fairview Ave., Montgomery, AL 36106 Soccer I.D. Camp (Grades 9th-12th), TBA, 8:45 until 3 p.m.

Ages: Grades 9th-12th

1500 East Fairview Ave., Montgomery, AL 36106 Summer Youth Academy (Ages 5-13), Dates TBA, 8:30 a.m. until 3 p.m.

Ages: Ages 5-13 (334) 833-4316 hchawkssoccercamps.com

McCallie Sports Camp

500 Dodds Avenue, Chattanooga, TN 37404 Length: Three 2-week sessions MSC Session I: Monday, June 14-26; MSC Session II: Monday, June 28 - July 10; MSC Session III: Monday, July 12-24.

Ages: Ages 9-15 (800) 672.2267 mccallie.org

Montgomery Catholic Preperatory Summer Camps

5350 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36116 Baseball, Wrestling, Soccer, Basketbal, Volleyball, Softball, Tennis, Football, Cheer. Dates TBA. Ages: Age varies by camp (334) 272.7221 montgomerycatholic.org

University of Alabama Baseball Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Dates to be announced. Four themed sessions.

Age ranges for these camps are K-12th grade.

1,2,3 and overnight camps available.

Ages: Age varies by camp (205) 348.8849 rolltide.com

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University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 The University of Alabama has a wide selection of Football camps during the months of June and July. Age ranges are K-12th grade.

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 TBA. Wide selection of Basketball camps.

Ages:Age varies by camp (205) 348.4111 rolltide.com

University of Alabama Men’s Golf Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 TBA; Teaches campers the proper fundamentals through golf instruction.

Ages: Ages 10-18 (662) 418.4442 rolltide.com

University of Alabama Soccer Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Three sessions based on skill.TBA. Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 933.BAMA rolltide.com

University of Alabama Softball Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Two Summer Camp Sessions: TBA. Camp will cover all defensive positions.

Ages: Age varies by camp (800) 933.BAMA alabamasoftballcamp.com

University of Alabama Women’s Basketball Camp

University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL 35487 Dates to be announced.

Ages: Grades 9th-12th (205) 348.6164 rolltide.com

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Spring Break Camps Expedition Lanark Spring Break Camp ad on page 22

3050 Lanark Road, Millbrook, AL 36054 ANC Spring Break Camp March 22nd-26th | March 29th-April 2nd 8:00 am- 3:30 pm (early drop-off & aftercare available) Don’t miss out on the river region’s most unique outdoor camp! Spring is just around the corner and so is our Expedition Lanark Spring Break Camp! Some activities include fishing, canoeing, birding with binoculars, track casting and even dissecting owl pellets! We will get hands on with some of our educational animals such as our baby alligator, eastern indigo snake, and gopher tortoise during our animal encounters! You can even help plant and maintain some of the vegetables we grow to feed our gopher tortoises.

AGES: 6-12 | COST: $125.00/week Aftercare available for $25.00/week (7:30am8:00am drop-off & 4:00pm-6:00pm pick-up) Ages: 6-12 years (334) 285.4550 awf@alabamawildlife.org alabamawildlife.org

United Gymstars and Cheer ad on page 57

6100 Brewbaker Blvd. , Montgomery, AL 36116 March 22-26; 7:30-5:30 p.m. Please call for pricing. Please bring a snack and a lunch.

Ages: 5-12 years (334) 284.2244 gym@unitedgymstarsandcheer. com unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

Docarmo’s Spring Break Camp

3447 Malcolm Drive, Montgomery, AL 36116 March 22-26. If you’ve been to day camp as a child, you’re not surprised to hear about the benefits of day camp. At our Taekwondo Day Camps, children spend their day being physically active. At Docarmo’s Taekwondo, all of our camp students are not only learning great character benefits, but also have fun obstacle courses, great camp theme challenges, and awesome games to be involved in.

Ages: 6 years and up (334) 220.5835 docarmotkd@yahoo.com trytkdfree.com

Family Karate Center Spring Break Camp 8159 Vaughn Road, Montgomery, AL 36117 Through the months of March and April. The camp will teach Stranger Danger Child Abduction Prevention and Awareness Programs, The

River Region Parents I March 2021

Ask Mom First Program (Child Molestation Prevention), “I am not a target” Bully Busters program and tips to teach children about lures child abductors use. Also included in the Kids Karate Camp will be beginning and advanced karate skills and drills, relay races, Samurai Pool Noodle Challenge, Karate Freeze Tag, Ninja Dodge Frisbee, Power Ranger Relay Race, and many other fun games that make children test their coordination and balancing skills.

Ages: 2 years and up (334) 277.4911

FC Montgomery Soccer Futsal

Capital City Sportsplex, 1555 Eastern Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36117 Dates: March 22-26 Cost: Half Days $125/week or Full Days $195/week. Most Advanced Youth Development Methodology Worldwide! Come improve your technique and have fun the Brazilian way! Sign up now. Space is limited.

Ages: All ages (334) 207.5442 brunomr@fcmontgomery.com fcmontgomery.com

Spring Break Art with Barb Grimes at Nancy’s Ice

Paint a canvas - For ages 3 and up Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday & Thursday 10 am to 10:45 am; Monday March 22 - Cracked Eggs with chick and bunny Tuesday March 23 - Cross with eggs Wednesday March 24 - 3 Behind bunnies Thursday March 25 - Bunny with carrots $15 includes free Ice Treat!

Ages: 3 years and up (334) 546.2233 barb2shop@yahoo.com

YMCA Branches and Goodtimes Center Montgomery, AL March 22-26, Goodtimes and East YMCA March 29-April 5, Grandview YMCA and Wetumpka.

Ages: Age varies by camp ymcamontgomery.org

YMCA Spring Break Basketball Camp

Midtown YMCA, 3455 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery, AL 36111 March 22-24 from noon until 3 p.m.; We are committed to coaching with a focus on fair play, healthy competition, and parent participation.

Ages: 8-15 years (334) 262.6411 jdailey@ymcamontgomery.org ymcamontgomery.org

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Troop 4 Scout Achieves Eagle Rank

Michael Pritchard, son of James and Laurie Pritchard and older brother to Matthew and Rylan Pritchard, has achieved the Boy Scouts of America’s highest rank, Eagle Scout.

He is a member of Boy Scout Troop 4, sponsored by Holy Spirit Catholic Church, under the leadership of scoutmasters Paul LeMaster and, most recently, Lt. Col. Shannon Cummings.

Pritchard began his Scouting journey in 2009 at the age of 7, when he joined Cub Scout Pack 268 out of Sulpher Grove UMC in Huber Heights, Ohio. After relocating in 2012 to Maxwell AFB, Pritchard joined Pack 23 at Maxwell and continued in scouting. In 2013, he transferred to St. Bede’s Pack 4 of Montgomery and earned the Cub Scouts’ highest rank, the Arrow of Light award, in 2014.

As a member of Troop 4, Pritchard has held numerous leadership positions including patrol leader, assistant patrol leader, quartermaster, assistant senior patrol leader and senior patrol leader. He has earned 33 merit badges, a bronze Eagle palm, attended National Youth Leadership Training, and has staffed the WEBELOS Arrow of Light Camp for two years.

For his Eagle Scout service project, Pritchard coordinated a work crew that cleared and restored the landscaping at Cloverdale Playhouse and constructed five new benches to provide additional outdoor seating. He was passionate about giving back to the theatre/playhouse that has given him so many opportunities.

Pritchard is a senior at Booker T. Washington Magnet High School and an active member of the Theatre Magnet as well as the local community theaters. He will graduate this spring and plans to pursue a career in acting. www.riverregionparents.com

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www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

Parents’ Ultimate Guide to

use it to build consumer profiles to make educated guesses about what you’re likely to buy in the future. These models are valuable, and they use them to sell you stuff or sell your data profile to other companies.

For example, your fridge could sell your data to an ice cream company or a health insurance provider.

Smart Devices

More than six in 10 parents say their young kids interact with voiceactivated assistants. Are you one of them? If you’re weighing the pros and cons of products such as smart watches, smart speakers, and even smartphones that track pretty much everything you do, a peek behind the curtain will help you determine whether the benefits to your family are worth it. This guide tells you all about smart devices -- what they are, what they can do for you and your family, how to use them as safely as possible, and how to protect your family’s privacy in a world increasingly powered by data.

What is COPPA, and how does it protect my child? COPPA

stands for the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act. It’s a federal law enforced by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). COPPA prevents online companies from collecting and using data from kids under 13 without parental consent. This is why nearly all social media companies set their minimum age requirement at 13--because their business models depend on tracking users. Smart devices aren’t allowed to knowingly track kids because of the COPPA rule, but when the devices are used in the home, they don’t necessarily know the ages of all users.

When you set up individual profiles for your kids on smart speakers, it somewhat limits what information the device can collect and store when it knows a kid is using it.

What are smart devices? The “smart” part refers to any device that communicates with other devices over the internet. But the kinds of smart products designed for home or personal use, such Apple HomePod, Amazon Echo, Facebook Portal, and Google Home smart speakers, can also adapt to their owners using artificial intelligence technology that “learns” your behavior. These types of products can save time, effort, money, and even human life. They make it easy to play music, get homework help, and make a grocery list. Smart thermostats and lights, for example, can reduce your energy bill. And smart medical devices can alert your doctor when your kid’s asthma flares up.

How can I limit the data my smart devices collect? Most connected products

have privacy settings that put limits on the use of your data, such as how much the company can collect, what they use it for, how long they can keep it, and how you--as the source of that data--can interact with it.

You can usually find privacy settings in your account profile on the company’s website or on an associated app (which is often required to run a smart device). Some privacy features, such as location services, can only be turned on or off. Some you can fine-tune. In the Alexa app that works with Amazon’s Echo, for example, you can restrict Amazon from using your voice recordings for certain purposes. They may still collect this information; they just can’t use it for purposes you’ve opted out of.

How do smart products work? Unlike “dumb”

electronics, smart products use a combination of data and sophisticated software calculations to do what you want them to do. They can take information from a variety of sources, including human voices, sensors that monitor the environment, biometrics (thumbprints and faces), and apps, so every product performs a little differently for each person. But the biggest difference between smart devices and regular ones are that they need you--specifically your data-to customize to your needs. And all that data needs to go somewhere, so it’s usually stored in the “cloud” (basically, giant computer servers) out of your sight and mostly out of your control.

What’s the safest way for my family to use smart devices?

• Use strong passwords -- and make sure your kids do, too. Strong, well-protected passwords can thwart hackers looking for easy combinations to gain access to your information. Also, take advantage of additional security measures such as two-factor authentication.

• Protect children with parental consent. If kids will be interacting with smart devices and companies give you the option of setting up profiles for them, take advantage of that feature, as it can limit what’s collected.

If you want your kids to have, say, their own home assistant for their room, just make sure you enable all the privacy settings you can. To be ultra safe (some might think paranoid), you can turn off the device’s microphone at night after the kids go to bed.

• Remind your kids to connect safely. Public networks are prime targets for hackers (both local and international), so try to avoid them. If you have to use a public network, consider downloading a VPN (virtual private network) and make sure to enable the browser setting “always use HTTPS” to add another layer of encryption to your data.

What kinds of information do smart devices collect? Smart

devices collect--at the very least--the data they need to provide you with the service they’re offering. For example, your kid’s location-aware watch tracks his whereabouts. A smart refrigerator tracks what food you buy. Home assistants track your requests. But they typically collect way more data than they technically need to do their job. The watch still monitors your kid’s location even when he’s at home eating dinner and may also log which other watches are nearby it or track fitness metrics.

The fridge may track every time someone opens the door. It’s unclear how much smart speakers pick up of your home chatter, since they sometimes butt in to conversations unexpectedly. Companies claim that they need this data to make their products work better. But they also River Region Parents I March 2021

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Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and DVDs Flora & Ulysses

Disney+

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG

A-

B

A-

A

A-

When 10 year old Flora rescues a squirrel from the innards of a robotic vaccuum cleaner, she has no idea that some of the machine’s artificial intelligence has transferred to the frightened little rodent. Naming him Ulysses, Flora takes him home and watches as he develops his own superpowers and saves her world. This is an incredibly charming family film with lots of action and plenty of laughs. Young viewers will enjoy watching the comic mayhem unleashed by the well intentioned squirrel and even adults will find themselves laughing at some of the jokes. Photo ©Disney+

Days of the Bagnold Summer

Digital on Demand

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

Unrated

B+

A

B

D+

C

Daniel’s angry and disappointed when he learns that he won’t be spending his summer in Florida with his father. As he retreats into his world of heavy metal music, his mother, Sue, does her best to reach out and try to recapture the close relationship they had when Daniel was young. This English film is both wry and sweet, with an honest look at the big challenges and small victories of parenting. Best of all, it’s painfully funny and will have adults laughing and face-palming in quick succession. Photo ©Greenwich Entertainment

Blithe Spirit

Digital on Demand

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

C+

C+

B-

B+

C-

Charles is a novelist who hasn’t been able to write since the death of his first wife. Then he pays a medium to conduct a séance, in hopes of providing material for his latest work. But when the medium brings his late wife back into his life, chaos ensues, as does trouble with his current wife. This adaptation of Noel Coward’s famous play is lighthearted and very funny. But it also treats adultery, impotence, murder, and heavy alcohol consumption as comic fodder, making it less than ideal as a choice for family movie night.

Photo ©IFC Films

The Map of Tiny Perfect Things

Amazon

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

B+

B+

B+

C-

C

Mark and Margaret are the only people who realize that the world is caught in a time loop, repeating the same day over and over again. With nothing but time, the pair decide to spend their days looking for the “tiny perfect things” they would normally overlook in a world where time runs swiftly. This is an unusually thoughtful teen romance with finely drawn characters, solid writing, gentle humor, and plentiful discussion about big issues like time and the meaning of life. Photo ©Amazon Studios Grades range from: A= absence of content concerns to D= excess of content concerns Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com River Region Parents I March 2021

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EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY, SORROW, AND HOPE OF

HOLY WEEK Palm Sunday: March 28, 9:30am Maundy Thursday: April 1, 6:00pm Good Friday: April 2, 12:00pm & 6:00pm Great Vigil of Easter: April 3, 8:00pm Easter Day: April 4, 9:30am

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Whether they arrive in the family biologically, through adoption or remarriage, kids don’t get to choose their siblings. With diverse personalities collected under one roof, it’s no wonder brothers and sisters have antagonized each other—and aggravated their parents—since time began.

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Instead of losing your cool with your clashing kids, try a few of these tips to enjoy a more harmonious household and teach valuable life skills in the process.

“We need to take a break, and we need to calm down. It doesn’t have to be a punishment. It’s just learning to cope and get through the situation,” Jackson-Rice says.

Foster problem solving. Ask your kids to consider each other’s feelings and work toward problem-solving their disagreements, with empathy-building questions like: “How would it make you feel if your brother/sister said that to you?” and solution-seeking queries like: “What can you do to help the situation?”

“It’s important for siblings to resolve their issues on their own so they can practice managing challenging interpersonal interactions,” says child and adolescent psychologist Dr. Simone Moody. “As a parent you will not always be there to rescue your children and solve their problems.”

Developing conflict resolution skills will not only help kids better manage a dispute on the playground, but will also serve them well later in life as they navigate confrontations in their personal relationships or with a pesky co-worker.

Take a step back. Unless a sibling squabble is ramping up into a hair-pulling, cat-scratching, fist-fighting kind of affair, allow your kids to work out their disagreement on their own.

“I give parents permission to not get involved. When we intervene, we are not allowing the skills of conflict resolution or problem-solving,” says Jennifer Jackson-Rice, MSW-LSCSW, a therapist certified in Parent-Child Interaction Therapy.

Don’t take sides. When your child complains to you of an injustice committed by their sib, you may be tempted to take sides, especially if one child got hit. But, it takes two to tangle.

You can’t know for sure how the situation unfolded or what instigated the physical aggression.

Jackson-Rice encourages parents not to get into the weeds of who-did-what-when.

“There’s nothing positive that can come out of refereeing a sibling disagreement,” she says. “The only reason we’re involved is because someone wants attention from us, and it’s negative attention.”

Establish house rules. “Make sure your kids understand your family values in terms of kindness and treating each other with love and respect,” says parent coach Sara Minges.

Sit down with your children to discuss your family’s values and a simple code of conduct, like keeping hands to yourself, using respectful language and sharing.

Reward the positive. “Set an attainable goal for following the rules to earn a desired reward,” Moody says. “Catch your children following these rules often. Provide praise immediately and give them a token to represent each step toward their goal.”

Take breaks. Instead of playing judge and jury, separate your quarreling offspring for awhile.

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For example, you might create a sticker chart or marble/cotton ball jar and every time your kids work well as a team, they receive a token in the jar or a sticker on the chart. When the tokens reach a certain number, they earn a special family activity.

By focusing on the positive interactions, the negative interactions are likely to decrease.

“Whatever we water grows. Whatever we pay attention to or whatever we give our kids attention for will grow,” Jackson-Rice says.

Know your hot buttons. “As parents, we are models for

Don’t compare your kids. While competition can be

our children. It’s important to remain calm and respectful so that we can teach our children to treat others in the same manner,” Moody says.

When creating your house rules, consider the types of behaviors that your kids do that flip your patience.

“What are the things that drive you bonkers? Try to come out with as comprehensive or realistic a list as possible, whether it’s yelling and screaming, throwing things, stomping feet or using foul language,” Minges says.

With a plan in place, it will be easier to keep your cool. For example, you might say: “You know our rule about name-calling.

This is your first warning. Do it again and you’ll lose your video game time today.” Calmly and consistently follow through whenever necessary.

“Kids will learn ‘Hey, I’m not going to be able to get mom or dad angry so that they just give in,’” Minges says. “If this is how it happens all of the time, it makes it harder for them to take advantage of the situation or try to get out of something.”

healthy, it shouldn’t fuel all out war in your household. Try not to perpetuate sibling rivalry by drawing comparisons between your kids. One child may learn to ride a bike sooner than another, while the other figures out how to cross the monkey bars faster.

One may be better at basketball while the other excels at art.

“Focus on each child’s individual strengths. Encourage your children to participate in activities that foster their unique strengths,” Moody says.

Also, spend time one-on-one with your kids by engaging them in their favorite activities, playing a game or going for walks together. Individual time strengthens parent-child bonds and helps kids feel valued for who they are rather than how well they perform at a particular activity.

Promote a team atmosphere. Initiate team-building opportunities like playing a game as team rather than as opponents, helping to prepare dinner, cleaning up after a meal or doing yard work together. And, again, reinforce positive interactions by praising your kids whenever they work or play well together. rrp

Acknowledge conflict resolution in action. “Remember to praise your children when they resolve an issue appropriately,” Moody says. “If only one child is managing the situation appropriately, give praise and attention to that child’s behavior (‘great job staying calm!’) and ignore minor misbehavior of the other child (taunting, boasting and complaining).”

River Region Parents I March 2021

Freelance writer Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of a pair of squabbling siblings, who are forced to work out their differences while doing yard work and post-dinner clean up.

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for patient care that requires less patience.

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

YOUR HOME FOR HEALTH

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FamilyCalendar Monday, March 1

Sonshine Soccer Registration Open -Through March 16 Frazer United Methodist Church. Sonshine Soccer is open for boys and girls ages 4-12. Practices will be Tuesday or Thursday evenings starting April 6. Games are played April 19-May 17 on Monday evenings (one on Saturday morning). Cost per child is $55 for registration, plus $25 for a game jersey (may reuse jersey if the child played last year). Open to the community. Register in Frazer Activity Center or online at frazer.church/connect/ sports-and-fitness. Volunteers also needed to coach.

Training provided.

Shoppes of Downtown Prattville Sponsor Read Across America Day 10:15 a.m.-4:45 p.m. Join the Shoppes of Downtown Prattville for a day full of books and fun! This fabulous free event features readings from favorite children’s book titles throughout Historic Downtown Prattville’s Business District. For full schedule, visit elmoreautauganews. com/.

Tuesday, March 2

February 8. For more info, call (334) 625-2590 or visit alabamadancetheatre.com.

4th Annual Junior League of Montgomery Women’s Leadership Summit 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Join us at this free virtual event to celebrate our goals and achievements. The event will feature inspiring women leaders at the top of their fields who will share their wisdom, stories and advice. This year’s event will be easy to attend from work or home. Visit https://www.accelevents.com/e/ WomensLeadershipSummit.

Monday, March 8

Research Rundown: History & Genealogy How-to Noon. Join the Ala. Dept. of Archives & History reference staff for a new online series offering short tutorials on genealogy and archival research. Each program will livestream on the ADAH’s Facebook and YouTube channels, and will remain available following the presentations at youtube.com/alabamaarchives. Today’s topic is “Organizing Your Research,” presented by Erica Eaves, Reference Archivist.

Kids Club Online: Draw Like Dr. Seuss Other projects available March 4, 9, 10, 11, 14, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24, 25, 30 & 31 4 p.m. Happy birthday, Dr. Seuss! Celebrate with Josh, one of our very own Michael’s designers, as we draw Dr. Seuss style! For more info or to sign up, visit https://www.michaels.com/onlineclasses.

Wednesday, March 10

Wednesday, March 3

Thursday, March 11

GriefShare Support Group 10 a.m. Frazer Church, room 3101. A thirteen-week support group utilizing the video-based curriculum, “Your Journey from Mourning to Joy,” with discussion concerning stages of grief, the storms that accompany it, and ways of dealing with loss. Group began Feb. 3 but you may join at any time during the 13 weeks. For more info, contact BJ Nave at rnave@frazerumc.org or (334) 495-6343.

Thursday, March 4

Millbrook Community Theatre Presents The Nerd Through March 7 7:30 p.m. performances Thursday through Saturdays; 2 p.m. matinees on Sundays. A sidesplitting comedy written by Larry Shue and directed

by Stephanie McGuire. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Call (334) 782-7317 or visit www.millbrooktheatre.com/.

Cultural Crossroads: Reconstruction in Alabama and its Legacies -- Also March 18 & April 1 6 p.m. Join the Landmarks foundation for a digital event and conversation with historians Bertis English, Daniel Cone, Elijah Gaddis and Sedric Wytch. We will discuss black politicians in Alabama during Reconstruction and their impacts on politics in Alabama. Register at www. oldalabamatown.com/events for the free digital event.

Friday, March 5

Alabama Dance Theatre Presents Ballet’s Greatest Hits and World Premieres -Through March 7 7 p.m. Friday and 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Troy University’s Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts.

Performance tickets are $15-$30 and go on sale starting

River Region Parents I March 2021

Art+Letters: The Secret Book of Frida Kahlo Noon-1 p.m. Come take part in the Museum’s monthly reading group featuring works of art historical fiction and nonfiction. All discussions take place online via Zoom and last about an hour. To join the discussion, follow the link at mmfa.org/.

Pike Road Patriot Band MPA Preview Concert 7 p.m. St. James United Methodist Church Worship Center, 9045 Vaughn Road. Concert will feature both Pike Road Junior High and High School bands. No admission fee; donations are welcome. For more info, visit facebook.com/PikeRoadBand.

Lunch & Learn Returns with Virtual Manners Matter!

Noon-1 p.m. Join the Pike Road Business Association via webinar for the first installation of the 2021 Lunch & Learn series. Ronda Walker, professional trainer with Troy University Continuing Education & Outreach, will present “Virtual Manners Matter.” In this session, we will review details on appropriate behavior during telephone, email, text and in virtual meetings. This is a free event, but spaces are limited and registration is required. Contact katy@ pikeroad.us to learn more.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival’s Play Club Also March 25 7 p.m. Read one or both scripts and participate in a live online seminar for each with an expert (actor/director) and a scholar on the playwright and material. Today’s online seminar is on Cat on a Hot Tin Roof written by Tennessee Williams and led by Chase Bringardner & Topher Payne; March 25 seminar is on Trouble in Mind written by Alice Childress and led by Donnetta Lavinia Grays & Joy VandervortCobb. Space is limited to just 40 members for each play, so register today! There is no cost to join, but members must commit to obtaining and reading the scripts. Registration is online and first come, first served. Learn more at asf.net.

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Saturday, March 13

Pike Road Arts Center Presents It Isn’t Easy Being Green Art Show -- Through April 18 Pieces will be accepted March 6-12. E-mail patty@ pikeroad.us to participate.

Local Artists Live -- Also March 27 10-10:30 a.m. free on Instagram live. March’s Local Artists Live features the works of collaborating artists selected to participate in the MMFA’s Community Togetherness Project. Visit https://www.instagram.com/ montgomerymfa/.

Art Studio to Go: Paper Hats Say so long to winter with this fun paper hat project.

Decorate a paper hat using the materials provided. To request a kit for your family simply complete the registration link (limit of 6 per household). Kits will be available for curbside pick-up at the Museum’s gatehouse to the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden entrance on March 13 or 14. For more info, call (334) 625-4333 or visit mmfa.org.

2021 Montgomery Half Marathon & 5K 7 a.m.-11 p.m. in beautiful downtown Montgomery.

The route unfolds through several of the city’s historic sites and districts and brings runners past the state capitol building in the home stretch.

Purchase tickets at www.active.com/montgomery-al/ running/distance-running-races/montgomery-half-marathon-and-5k-2021,

Tuesday, March 16

Joe Thomas Jr. 3rd Tuesday Guitar Pull 7 p.m. Available on the Cloverdale Playhouse website.

Featured artists vary with each performance. Never the same show twice! Visit cloverdaleplayhouse.org/.

Thursday, March 18

2021 Lunchtime Lecture Series: Food For Thought Third Thursdays at noon. Fascinating hour-long lectures on the history of Alabama presented by the Alabama Department of Archives & History. Admission is always free! *Some of our 2021 programs will be offered virtually only. Today’s topic is “‘I Will Not Move’: The Story of Alabama Suffragist Indiana Little,” presented by Briana Royster. Visit archives.alabama.gov for the latest information.

MPAC Presents The Junkyard 6-10 p.m. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. The Junkyard is an open mic event for friends to decompress from stress and pressures of life through music and love. Sponsored By Adams Drug & Bailey Brothers Music Company. Tickets are available at the MPAC Box Office by calling (334) 481-5100 or visitingmpaconline.org/ events/.

Friends and Newcomers Club of Prattville/ Millbrook 9:30 a.m. at Bon Appetit located at 5090 Main Street in Millbrook. General meeting every third Thursday. All ladies welcome. Following the meeting we will have a speaker and $12 box lunch. Contact Nancy Schrull for reservations at (334) 414-8185 or Nschrull47@gmail. com. Check us out at www.friendsandnewcomers.org.

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FamilyCalendar Saturday, March 20

Historic Walking Tours with Dr. Richard Bailey 10 a.m. Today’s tour is Dexter Avenue; meet at Court Square. Historian Dr. Bailey will lead tours discussing the life, people and economy of Montgomery through the stories of these historic areas. Wear comfortable shoes and a mask and social distancing will be observed. Tickets are $10 for adults and under 12 is free. Tickets are available at landmarksfoundation. com or the day of the tour.

Monday, March 22

Research Rundown: History & Genealogy How-to Noon. Part of the online series offered by Ala. Dept of History & Archives. Today’s topic is “1867 and 1875 Voter Registrations,” presented by Courtney Pinkard, Reference Coordinator. For more info, see March 8 listing.

Tuesday, March 23

Art Studio to Go: Spring Break 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sign up for free artmaking fun kits during spring break. The whole family can make their own masterpieces using the materials provided.

Each kit will include supplies and instructions for several activities. To request a kit for your family, complete the registration link at mmfa.org/event/ studio-to-go-spring-break/. Kits will be available for curbside pick-up at the Museum’s gatehouse to the John and Joyce Caddell Sculpture Garden entrance on March 23.

Thursday, March 25

ArtTalk at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts 6-8 p.m. Free. For more than two decades, the Museum’s ArtTalk has offered local artists constructive feedback and camaraderie. Through its current virtual format, artists from beyond the River Region are able to enjoy the artful discussion too! Participants are invited to submit a work of art or just join the inspiring

conversation. Free via Zoom. For more info, call (334) 625-4333 or visit mmfa.org.

Saturday, March 27

Zoo Volunteer Serve Day 9 a.m.-4 p.m. We are picking a single day to gather volunteer groups to accomplish several tasks, including landscaping, trimming bushes, planting flowers, raking leaves, painting, and overall prepping the Zoo for upcoming events. Volunteers can be adults, teens, civic groups, school groups, church groups, businesses, military squadrons, and families. Volunteers ages 12-16 must be accompanied by a parent/legal guardian or designated group chaperone. Volunteers under the age of 19 must obtain parent / legal guardian permission to volunteer. For more info, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www.montgomeryzoo.com/.

Montgomery Zoo Dino Dig Education Program 10 a.m.-noon.

Dino Dig is an educational program with hands-on experience and fun. It is geared for boys and girls aged 4-10 years old.

It includes a classroom lesson plan, real dig time (getting dirty), live animal presentations, and everyone leaves with a take-home, keepsake goody bag. Advanced reservations required. All participants must be registered no later than March 26 @ noon.

For more info, call (334) 625-4900 or visit www. montgomeryzoo.com/.

attending in-class sessions. * Classes will meet Mondays through Thursdays from 6-8 p.m. Books will be provided at the first class meeting. Students may take the complete review ($309) to learn all subjects, or take a specific subject ($119). Call (334) 244-3804 or visit www.aum.edu/coned.

Cloverdale Playhouse Virtual Acting Classes for Kids -- Through May 20 Classes are offered for kindergarten-3rd grade; 4th-7th grades; and 8th-12th grades. We’ll explore what it means to communicate, share and listen, develop characters, explore the core of the story, and develop the craft of acting. For info about scholarships, please call us at (334) 262-1530 or e-mail sarah.thornton@cloverdaleplayhouse.org.

Saturday, April 3

Zoo Weekends -- Every Saturday in April 9 a.m.-5 p.m. It’s like Zoo Weekend with a twist.

In order to provide a safe and healthy environment for all our guests, Zoo Weekend is going to be held over four Saturdays in April (April 3, 10, 17 and 24).

Guests will be LIMITED to 4,000 per Saturday. So purchase your tickets in advance at (334) 625-4900 or montgomeryzoo.com!

Monday, April 5

Research Rundown: History & Genealogy How-to Noon. Part of the online series offered by Ala. Dept of History & Archives. Today’s topic is “Confederate Pension Records,” presented by Kayla Scott, Reference Archivist. For more information, see March 8 listing.

Monday, March 29

ACT Test Prep Classes at AUM -Through April 15 Prepare for the ACT exam and improve your test scores! Learn ways to decrease test anxiety and increase your skills with the Reading/Language, Science, and Math sections of the exam. * Students can choose to attend class in-person or online using the Zoom web application. Masks are required for

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information.

However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

Please send calendar info to editor@riverregionparents.com.

HOME STUDIO ART PROJECTS Designed by Museum educators, these art projects allow families to explore creativity from home, utilizing materials that might already be around the house. From learning about color theory and designing paper quilt collages, to using art as a form of expressive reflection, there is an activity for everyone in the whole family to enjoy!

Find activities to enjoy at mmfa.org.

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Renae: I admit I struggle in this area of planning dinners for my family. We are eating something simple, a good home cooked meal or eating out. A few of my family’s favorite recipes are poppy seed chicken, spaghetti, Sloppy Joes, chicken and vegetable kabobs and one pan chicken with wild rice and asparagus. We discovered the Instant Pot and every mom should have one!

RRP: What is something that you hope that your children will learn from you?

Renae: Love God and put Him first. Love others the way Jesus would love them. Dream big! Work hard and never stop learning.

Enjoy the outdoors. Always challenge yourself. I also want them to know that marriage is a gift and God needs to be part of it. It will be hard at times, but don’t forget the covenant you made before God.

Renae Pemberton Today we sit down with Renae Pemberton, who is the mom of two and also serves as a youth pastor. She shares with us the lessons she has learned along the way and why carving out time for just you and your spouse is important, even if it means learning how to hunt with a bow!

RRP: What are some tips you have for balancing mom life and still making time with your spouse a priority?

Renae: Carve out time with each other as often as you can.

Send encouraging messages to your spouse just to let them know you are thinking about them or how much you love them.

Join your spouse in doing something they are interested in or a hobby. I recently bought a compound bow and a shotgun to go hunting with my husband. It is a new adventure for me, but it has brought us closer together. We have a lot of fun together and have had many laughable moments. He was so shocked I wanted to go hunting with him and I love seeing his excitement of teaching me this new world I have entered with him. I am going to be a little personal here, but this topic is important. I read the book Sheet Music, by Dr. Kevin Leman, and it reminded me the importance of making time to be intimate with my husband. I highly recommend it for couples to read together. We do not talk about this topic in church much and we really should.

RRP: Thank you so much for taking the time to sit down with us and share about your life as a mom to your two beautiful children. How would you describe your parenting style now compared to when you were a brand new mom?

Renae: I am more relaxed in some ways and just take one day at a time. When my daughter was born I was so scared of her because she was so little and I was a little overwhelmed as a new mom.

RRP: You have a unique parenting perspective due to your work as a youth minister and are also the co-creator of a social media group called Momistry. How did that come about?

RRP: If you could go back to when you first found out you were expecting your oldest child, what advice would you give yourself?

Renae: One day I was sharing something online I had read with a fellow mom in ministry who lives in Washington. She asked me how I found the time to read, much less handle the challenges of motherhood, a pandemic and ministry. She shared her challenges with me. I could hear her honesty and struggle and could totally relate! We started talking about it, and Momistry was born. We are seeing that moms in ministry need this space and God is on the move. We are excited to see how God grows this group and what is in store for the future. It’s funny how God brought a mom from Alabama and a mom from Washington together, who have never met in person, to do God’s work!

Ranae: I had just started my first job as a youth minister when I found out I was pregnant. God has a sense of humor and I faced many new adjustments. As first time moms we concentrate on what is happening all the way to birth. I wished I would have been better prepared after having our sweet Ellie. I took the first shift of the night with our daughter. I ended up waking my husband because I needed help cleaning myself plus my breast milk trail in the house. I did not know you needed to wear a bra with nursing pads. I would also tell myself to relax and you are going to be okay.

Renae and her husband, Jason, are the proud parents of two children: Ellie (9) and Isaac (5). They have been married 14 years and attend Eclectic United Methodist Church in Eclectic, Alabama, where Renae serves as the youth minister. She is a graduate of Huntingdon College and is the co-creator of Momistry, a social

RRP: If our readers could visit you on a typical weeknight, what would you be serving for dinner?

River Region Parents I March 2021

media group for moms in ministry.

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