River Region Parents Holiday Happenings Edition (December 2024)

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2024–25 family series

featuring

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Omnium Circus: I’m Possible Sunday, March 2 • 3 p.m.

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Catapult Sunday, April 6 • 3 p.m.

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Tickets available now!

334.844.TIXS (8497) GOGUECENTER.AUBURN.EDU GOGUECENTERTICKETS.AUBURN.EDU *Seating for all 2024–25 Family Series performances is general admission. Tickets are not included as part of any 2024–25 subscription package and must be purchased separately. $10 ticket price does not include ticketing service and facility fees. Final cost is $15 per general admission ticket.

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“Where healing is more than just medicine.”

Paige—Colon Cancer Survivor

After an initial consultation with another cancer treatment center for my colon cancer diagnosis, I decided to choose the Montgomery Cancer Center. They provide not only cutting-edge medical treatments but also exceptional comfort and care for my overall well-being. The dedication, compassion, and positive energy from my doctor, nurses, and the entire treatment team were instrumental in getting me through to the other side of cancer. And I am forever grateful.

LEARN MORE

A BAPTIST MEDICAL CENTER SOUTH FACILITY

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PLEASE JOIN US AS WE CELEBRATE

ADVENT & CHRISTMAS 1st Sunday of Advent Service with Holy Eucharist † 9:30 am, December 1

Service of Lessons and Carols Service with music and readings † 6:30 pm, December 5 Champagne reception to follow ($25, available at the door)

2nd Sunday of Advent Service with Holy Eucharist † 9:30 am, December 8

3rd Sunday of Advent Service with Holy Eucharist † 9:30 am, December 15

4th Sunday of Advent Service with Holy Eucharist † 9:30 am, December 22

Christmas Eve Service with Holy Eucharist and Pageant † 4:00 pm Tuesday, December 24 Service with Holy Eucharist and Incense † 7:00 pm Tuesday, December 24

Christmas Day Service with Holy Eucharist † 11:00 am, Wednesday, December 25

Christ the Lord Returns to Reign!

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December2024 44 48

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Volume 30 Number 1

Columns 6 Editor’s Note DeAnne Watson

8 Meeting Kids Where They Are

Advent Family Fun

Supporting a Friend Through a Divorce

Do’s and don’ts you should know.

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Discover 24 days of fun activities to help you countdown to Christmas.

Works of Wonder Therapy

14 Montgomery Education Matters

by Superintendent Dr. Melvin Brown

32 Pike Road Education Matters

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by Superintendent Dr. Keith Lankford

36 Autauga Education Matters

by Superintendent Lyman Woodfin

40 Elmore Education Matters

by Superintendent Richard Dennis

Holiday Happenings The holiday fun begins and our guide tells you where to go!

10 Commandments for More Holiday Cheer

46 Grands are the Greatest!

by Kimberley Carter Spivey

Shift your perspective and find joy!

51 Teens, Tweens & Screens

by Kristi Bush, LSW

On The Cover Merry Christmas from the Sabel Family! Sadie Mae (5) and Kenzie (2) are the daughters of Sean and Kimberly Sabel of Montgomery. The family is pictured at Wadsworth Tree Farm in Wetumpka.

Sadie Mae is a K4 student at Trinity Presbyterian School and Kenzie attends First School. Both girls love building with their magnetiles, going for walks and hikes, and playing on their jungle gym in the backyard.

The Sabels, especially Sadie Mae and Kenzie, can’t wait for their annual trip to Fantasy in Lights at Callaway Gardens!

Departments 12 Teacher of the Month 16 School Bits 62 Family Calendar 64 Mom to Mom

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Editor’sNote

Parents

Welcome to the Christmas issue of River Region Parents magazine, where we celebrate the most wonderful time of the year with you.

Christmas is a time to reflect on the blessings in our lives, embrace traditions, and create new memories with those we love.

In this issue, we’re excited to share our extended Holiday Happenings Guide, a listing of fun and meaningful events happening throughout the River Region. From dazzling light displays to Christmas church services and festive parades, our guide is your go-to resource for planning a season filled with magic and joy. These events provide perfect opportunities to bundle up with loved ones and experience the spirit of Christmas as a community.

We’re also thrilled to bring you two feature articles designed to inspire your family’s holiday celebrations. In “10 Commandments for More Holiday Cheer,” Christa Hines explores simple yet impactful ways to rediscover the true meaning of the season. She encourages families to let go of the pressure for perfection and embrace the beauty of imperfection, laughter, and shared moments.

For families seeking to make the countdown to Christmas extra special, don’t miss “An Advent Calendar of Family Fun.” Here, Pam Molnar presents 25 unique activities to enjoy together each day leading up to Christmas. From Christmas karaoke to sharing acts of kindness and even a neighborhood Christmas scavenger hunt, these ideas will spark joy and create new memories for you and your children.

As we celebrate the season, we also take a moment to reflect on the incredible milestone of 30 years of River Region Parents. For three decades, you—our readers, schools, and advertisers—have trusted us to be your source for family-focused content and community connection. It has been and continues to be our privilege to walk alongside you as you navigate the incredible journey of parenting.

From all of us at River Region Parents, we wish you a holiday season filled with love, laughter, and cherished memories. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

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

Research Editor Wendy McCollum Contributing Writers Kristi Bush, LSW Dr. James Christensen Richard Dennis Christa Melnyk Hines Dr. Keith Lankford Pam Molnar Pam Moore Kimberley Carter Spivey Lyman Woodfin Works of Wonder Therapy

Cover Photography Lisa Smith www.studiopanache.net

Publisher Jason Watson jason@riverregionparents.com

Advertising Department (334) 213-7940 ext. 703 adservices@keepsharing.com or Text 334.328.5189

Content Manager Anna Watson Social Manager Scott Davis

DeAnne

Ad Design Tim Welch

deanne@riverregionparents.com

River Region Parents I December 2024

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.

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River Region Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing LLC, P.O. Box 230367, Montgomery, Alabama, 36123. River Region Parents is copyrighted 2024 by Keep Sharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. opinions expressed in River Region Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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Christmas at Frazer Dec. 8

Lessons & Carols 4 PM Worship Center

Dec. 18 Longest Night 6 PM Chapel

Dec. 23 Candlelight Service 6 PM Worship Center

Dec. 24 Candlelight Service 4 PM Worship Center

Dec. 29 Bilingual Worship Service 10:24 AM Worship Center Un Servicio Bilingüe de Adoración a las 10:24 AM

Join Us for In-Person Worship on Sunday & Wednesday 8:30 AM Worship | 9:45 AM Discipleship Hour | 11 AM Worship 6 PM Wednesday Night Worship

Live Stream Sunday Morning Worship Services Online at Frazer.Church | Through the Frazer Church App | Frazer’s YouTube Channel | Facebook Live

6000 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery, AL 36117 7

| FRAZER.CHURCH

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1. Think about things your child said to you and think about the importance of their words without making assumptions. For example, a bad grade on a test is as crushing to them as being fired would be to you.

2. Did you rush into judgment when you should have been more curious? For example, did you make your child stop playing cars and make them do something with you? Should you have just joined your child in that activity instead?

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Becoming a Student of Your Child Teachers, counselors, pediatricians, and everyone else who works with children are distressed by how often parents are unaware of how their choices, behaviors, and words may negatively impact development.

Emotionally healthy parents raise emotionally healthy children, but becoming healthy requires a tremendous amount of work and effort. Instead of “doing the work” parents often want a “quick fix” for their children’s unruly behavior.

I truly believe that children are here to teach us much more than we will ever teach them. Children teach us to love unconditionally, protect faithfully, find joy in the little things, overflow with patience, display kindness in difficult circumstances, show gentleness even when they are irrational, and practice self-control. However, to learn

River Region Parents I December 2024

from your children, you must be a willing student.

Sometimes, parents are so concerned about controlling their child’s behavior that they stop focusing on becoming a better person. This is the hardest part of parenting that very few people discuss.

First, take the time to self-reflect daily. Every night, ask yourself these three questions and keep notes so you can see your progress.

3. Identify your priorities and focus daily on what is in your control. What do you care about most? Work, family, your relationship with God, physical fitness, having fun, friendships, etc. If these things are important to you, do your daily actions correctly reflect your priorities? If not, what changes need to be made? Are your actions teaching your children your priorities? If not, what changes need to be made?

Allow your children to help you grow into the best person you can be. Take the time to be their willing student. Stop focusing on their immediate behavior and become intentional about shaping them into amazing adults that you would be proud to know.

1. What did you do well as a parent today?

2. What do you wish you had done differently?

3. Should you take any action to correct it?

Do you need to apologize to your child? Do you simply need to make a different plan for how you will react in the future?

Second, try to see the world through your child’s eyes daily.

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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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Capital City Christmas Parade

Living Christmas Tree

December 13-15 First Baptist Church Montgomery The sights and sounds of Christmas come to life as you hear beautiful music from the choir and orchestra and see the thousands of lights on the decorated tree! The Living Christmas Tree at First Baptist Church is truly a Montgomery Christmas tradition.

Friday, December 13 at 7 PM, Saturday, December 14 & Sunday, December 15 at 4:00 PM. Get tickets at https://montgomeryfbc.wufoo.com/forms/2024-livingchristmas-tree-tickets/

December 13 * Downtown Montgomery The Annual Capital City Christmas Parade will occur on Dexter Avenue at 6:15 pm.

Parade Rules and guidelines are in place to ensure the safety of all participants and spectators and to create a fun and memorable evening for everyone celebrating the Christmas season.

Pike Road Theatre Company Presents Miracle on 34th Street

December 5-22 * Faulkner Theatre 5346 Atlanta Highway A holiday classic from the writer of the musical theatre classic, The Music Man!, and based on the movie of the same name, Miracle on 34th Street features a book and score by none other than Meredith Willson. Filled with humor, spectacle and such beloved songs as “Pinecones and Hollyberries,” “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” and “My State, My Kansas,” this joyous, heartwarming musical is pure family entertainment. Get your tickets at www.pikeroadtheatrecompany.com.

A Main Street Christmas

December 10 at 5pm Historic Downtown Prattville The City of Prattville is partnering with the Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown merchants for the 9th annual A Main Street Christmas. Shop local small business for the perfect Christmas gift and then enjoy horse drawn carriage rides, carolers, hot chocolate and cookies, children’s make and take art projects, dancers, music and more, plus a visit from Santa! The event is from 5:00-7:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public.

River Region Parents I December 2024

River Region Ballet’s “The Nutcracker”

December 6, 7, and 8 Davis Theatre in Montgomery “The Nutcracker,” choreographed by Stevan Grebel and set to music

by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, will thrill the audience with the prodigious dancing of the Youth Ballet Company and students from the school. With spectacular backdrops, scenery and a growing Christmas tree, this ballet is truly magical! Get your tickets at alabamariverregionballet.com.

Montgomery Zoo Christmas Lights

December 6- 31 * Montgomery Zoo Christmas Lights Festival, December 6-31, 5:30pm – 9pm. See the Montgomery Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland sparkling with thousands of lights.

Take a leisurely stroll, a brisk train ride or see the lights atop the Zoofari Skylift Ride. Visit the Christmas Tree Village at the Mann Museum and have a picture taken with Santa thru Dec 23. Enjoy warming hot chocolate and holiday treats from the Overlook Cafe. www.montgomeryzoo.com

Cousin Eddy’s 5k and Polar Plunge

December 14, 9am * Montgomery Whitewater Presented by Max Credit Union, Cousin Eddy’s 5K starts at 9 am, followed by the Grinch Chaser, our Kid’s 1-Mile Fun Run at 10 am. After, cool off with a dip in the bottom pond for our second annual Polar Plunge at 10:45 am. Guaranteed more excitement than a one-year Jelly of the Month Club membership! Runners will receive overall and 5-year age group awards for the top finishers.

The Polar Plunge is included with all 5K and Grinch Chaser signups. If you would like to participate in the Polar Plunge only, that is fine too! Don’t forget a towel and a change of clothes! Register at https://runsignup.com/ Race/AL/Montgomery/CousinEddys5KandPolarPlunge 10

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Montgomery Whitewater Outdoor Ice-Skating Experience

Wednesdays - Sundays through February 16 Montgomery Whitewater Montgomery Whitewater will be snow much fun this winter! No plastic surfaces here—our ice rink is composed of 5,000 square feet of real ice. Located on the concert lawn, you will surely make memories on our skating rink this winter. Enjoy 90-minute skate sessions with your friends and family. Visit montgomerywhitewater.com/ activities/ice-skating/.

Harlem Globetrotters

December 14, 2pm * Garrett Coliseum Join us for Harlem Globetrotters (Basketball) at Garrett Coliseum in Montgomery.

It’s going to be a fun and relaxed event with great music and good company.

A perfect way to spend your evening.

Tickets at https://allevents.in/.

Holiday Pops Concert

Sip n’ Savor

December 14 * Historic Old Cloverdale Tour beautiful historic homes including The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum while enjoying specially curated beverages and appetizers. Proceeds go to fighting pet homelessness with affordable spay/ neuter. Tickets at https://experiencemontgomeryal.org/event/sip-n-savor/1324/.

December 19, 7pm * Davis Theatre Join our Montgomery Symphony Orchestra for the Joyce Caddell Holiday Pops! The MSO welcomes guest artist, John Holiday. Countertenor John Holiday has established himself as “one of the finest countertenors of his generation” (Los Angeles Times).

Tickets at https://experiencemontgomeryal. org/event/holiday-pops-concert/1183/

Schedule your free exam!

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Lillie Vaughn Resurrection Catholic School

Lillie Vaughn became a teacher at Resurrection Catholic because it is a Christian educational environment. The school aims to help children find purpose and meaning and weave their faith into all areas of learning.

It believes all students deserve an excellent education regardless of race, creed, or ability.

Lillie teaches science, math, and social studies to 7th and 8th graders. Teaching middle schoolers is often described as challenging due to the hormonal changes and developmental stages of middle school. It’s a new chapter in their lives that’s potentially scary and forces them to step outside their comfort zones. It requires discovering who they are, establishing new social connections, adapting to academics rigorously, and much more.

However, she finds it rewarding, as teachers are vital in guiding students through this transitional period.

Graduating from Tuskegee Institute with a bachelor’s degree in science and a master’s degree in counseling from Alabama State University, she helps students build self-esteem and confidence. They should believe in themselves and their ability to learn regard-

River Region Parents I December 2024

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less of their background or skills. “Sometimes students need someone to look up to as a role model. Teaching helped bring value and meaning to my life,” she explains.

Teachers are certainly more than just teachers. Daily, they pour their hearts into their students. They are a beacon of hope to the masses.

Lillie shares, “The one thing about teaching I wish people understood is that all children are not the same, and the level of learning is not the same. Students can still be encouraged to dream and be challenged to reach their fullest potential.” It takes dedicated educators to mold and shape our youth into young leaders of the future.

Every year, teachers establish goals to challenge their students. Lillie Vaughn strives to improve students’ academic performance and increase student engagement and participation in class activities. She works to build a positive relationship with students and parents. Her goals will help her achieve success in the classroom and positively impact students.

Lillie Vaughn has been married to John Mitchell for 40 years. They have two children and two grandchildren.

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As the twinkling lights of the holiday season illuminate our homes and hearts, I extend my warmest wishes for a joyous Christmas and a peaceful New Year. This time of year reminds us of the importance of connection, compassion, and the spirit of giving – values that lie at the very core of our mission at Montgomery Public Schools (MPS).

This year has been one of significant transition and growth for MPS. As your Interim Superintendent, I’ve witnessed firsthand the unwavering dedication and resilience of our incredible teachers, staff, students, and community members. Your tireless commitment to excellence, even amidst challenges, is truly inspiring. From the classrooms brimming with learning to the countless hours dedicated to supporting

River Region Parents I December 2024

our students beyond the school bell, your efforts have shaped a year of progress and promise.

This holiday season, let us take a moment to reflect on the remarkable achievements we’ve celebrated together.

We’ve seen students excel academically, athletically, and artistically, showcasing their talent and potential. Our educators have continued to innovate and adapt, embracing new strategies and technologies to enhance the learning experience for every child. Our support staff have worked tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring our schools are safe, welcoming, and supportive environments for all.

And most importantly, we’ve reaffirmed the strength of our community. The partnerships we share with families, businesses, organizations, and individuals are the bedrock of our success. Your unwavering support, whether through volunteer work, donations, or simply words of encouragement, fuels our efforts and ensures that every student in Montgomery has the opportunity to thrive.

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As we look forward to the new year, let us carry the spirit of this holiday season into our classrooms and communities. Let us continue to collaborate, to support each other, and to champion the future of our students. Let the joy and hope of Christmas inspire us to strive for even greater accomplishments in the year ahead.

I am deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me as Interim Superintendent. I am humbled by the dedication and hard work of every member of the MPS family and our community partners. Your collective commitment to our students is a gift that keeps on giving, and it is this gift that makes Montgomery Public Schools a truly special place.

Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year! May your homes be filled with love, laughter, and the warmth of cherished memories.

Jamie Wilson is the Interim Superintendent and Chief of Staff for Montgomery Public Schools. She is a passionate leader, dedicated to empowering youth and working to support them to reach their highest potential.

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ACA Hosts Successful “Feed the Need” Fundraiser and Packing Party

Macon East Student Attends Alfa Youth Leadership

Macon East Academy and Bullock County student Bella Chambers attended the Alfa Youth Leadership Conference Nov. 4-5 at the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana. The conference teaches students how to advocate for agriculture, identify their potential and step into leadership roles.

The event is for ninth and tenth grade students. Sponsors are Alabama Farmers Federation, Bullock County Farmers Federation, Alabama Ag Credit and Alabama Farm Credit. Bella Chambers is pictured with Alabama Farmers Federation’s Matthew Durdin.

Alabama Christian Academy recently hosted its impactful “Feed the Need” fundraiser, uniting students, staff, and families in a meaningful effort to make a difference both locally and globally. The event culminated in an exciting packing party, where students took an active role in assembling meals for those in need.

This year’s initiative supported two causes: meals were sent to families in Bangladesh, a region facing severe food insecurity, and to the Mercy House here in Montgomery, which serves as a refuge for local individuals in need. Students were directly involved in the packing process, gaining a hands-on understanding of the importance of service and compassion.

The event not only demonstrated the school’s commitment to nurturing global citizenship but also fostered a sense of community and purpose among the students. Parents, teachers, and volunteers joined together in the effort, emphasizing ACA’s mission of faith, service, and education.

“Feed the Need” continues to be a cornerstone event for Alabama Christian Academy, showcasing how education can go beyond the classroom to instill values of generosity and servant leadership in the next generation.

Saint James School Theater Presents Radium Girls

The Saint James School Theater Department presented Radium Girls to delighted audiences this past November.

Written by DW Gregory, Radium Girls is inspired by the 1920s true story of Grace Fryer, a watch dial painter who battles for justice in court against her former employer who refuses to believe that radium could be the cause of his workers’ illnesses. As the case progresses, Grace faces not only opposition from the U.S. Radium Corporation, but also resistance from her family and friends, who fear the consequences of her fight. Written with warmth and elements of mystery, this fast-paced drama explores themes of health, wealth, and the commercialization of science through the eyes of our ensemble cast.

The cast included STJ students Abigail Roarke, Bethany Stanton, Lily Everett, Reagan Rolling, Lillian Archer, MaryEllis Killough, Caleb Hendrick, Waylon King, Jaxon Mason, and Alex McIlwain.

There were many students who worked behind the scenes to make the show a success. The House Crew consisted of Elizabeth Santana, Nancy Bradford, Jesse Johnson, Emilee Alexander, Izzy Pappas, Mae Puckett, Callie Sellers, Abby White, Parker Henry, Heesoo Cho, GiGi Reynolds, Breyonna Mckinnon, Madison Jackson, Devaney Green, John Ashton Dollar, BraylonFrazier, and Hazel Clinton.

The show was directed by Director of Theatre, Mr. Lonny Harrison.The Saint James Theater Department presents three productions each year.

Resurrection Catholic Enjoys Thanksgiving Feast and Fun Our Thanksgiving Luncheon was a success! The food as always was delicious and the fellowship...PRICELESS! Also, our 1st and 2nd graders had a great time getting ready for the Thanksgiving holidays.

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MA Senior Gabby Barrera Commits to Ball State University

Trinity School-Wide Service Day Trinity School students from K3 to 12th grade came together for an incredible day of service, putting their core values of integrity, respect, service, responsibility, and leadership into action. In just one day, students served 802 hours and collected 1,139 pounds of food for the Montgomery Area Food Bank, enough to provide 949 meals for families in need.

Students volunteered at over 20 locations across the River Region, including Wilson Elementary, Baptist East NICU, Meals on Wheels, MANE, Hope House, Habitat for Humanity, and many more. Everyone, from our youngest Wildcats to the upper school seniors, played a part in making a difference.

Montgomery Academy senior Gabby Barrera officially signed to become a member of the Ball State University tennis team!

Gabby’s career as an Eagle has been remarkable, on the tennis court, in the classroom, and in the art studio.

She will become a member of the Cardinals family next fall, but before that, there’s still one more season of MA Tennis to finish out. Gabby will be the 14th Eagle to play collegiate tennis, and the 9th to play at the D1 level. Congrats Gabby!

Montgomery Catholic Students Hold Weekly Adoration in the Chapel Montgomery Catholic’s student-run campus ministry is bringing Adoration and Confession to tutorials on Thursdays in the chapel. Students wanted more adoration opportunities at school after fall worship night. After weeks of planning, all students are now able to attend weekly adoration. Their first adoration was in early October. It featured live music by student singer Grace Clayborne, a senior, and student guitarist and singer Kyle Frank, a junior. They sang and played multiple worship songs throughout the thirty minutes of Adoration. Father Joseph Schultz from Saint Bede Parish also offered confession for both students and faculty during this time as well. After Adoration was over, Father proceeded to sing a song in Latin and everyone was dismissed. The students will be holding more Adoration events throughout the year. The High School Campus ministry is trying to make Adoration on Thursdays a weekly occurrence, like morning Mass before school. With continued support from our community, we can make it happen!

Call (334) 265-7488 608 E Fairview Ave

CLOVERDALE BAPTIST CHURCH

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50th Day of School at Forest Avenue The 2nd grade students and teachers at Forest Avenue had so much fun celebrating the 50th day of school!

Monday Chapel Days at Montgomery Christian School Every Monday, Montgomery Christian School (MCS) celebrates faith in action at chapels led by community pastors and partners. Reverend Chris Montgomery, senior pastor at Frazer Church, led MCS students and staff. MCS students practiced their Bible memory verses and their favorite songs from music class.

Chapel is a key part of the curriculum at MCS.

Bear Exploration Center Honored for Keeping Campus Clean Bear Exploration Center was honored at the annual Alabama PALS Governor’s Awards Luncheon for their efforts in keeping their campus litter free and in teaching students about the importance of taking care of the environment. Bear received 2nd Place in the Clean Campus Scrapbook Competition which came with a plaque and a check for $750.

People Against a Littered State has a luncheon each year to recognize the outstanding efforts of schools, communities, businesses, and individuals from all over Alabama. Pictured are representatives from Bear’s Green Team.

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Forest Avenue Students “Caught Being Good”

Trinity Senior Signs to Play Baseball at Auburn University Trinity School senior Fleming Hall has officially signed to play baseball with Auburn University. A standout athlete and dedicated student, Fleming’s achievement reflects his hard work and passion for the game. As he continues his journey at the collegiate level, the Trinity community celebrates this exciting milestone and looks forward to seeing all he will accomplish. Congratulations, Fleming!

We are proud of our October “Caught Being Good” Winners! They are Cadence Southall, Joshua Barnes, Jasper Blackburn, Max Koo, Olivia Shin, and Kasen Smith (not pictured). Keep on being good and get “caught” again!

Job Applications and Interviews at RR Academy Mrs. Stinson’s sixth graders at River Region Academy completed job applications and participated in job interviews.

Students were tasked with considering their desired position, completing job applications, and “dressing to impress” for the interviews. Throughout this assignment, students worked on writing, interviewing, interpersonal, and presentation skills. Job well done!

Forest Avenue 2nd Graders Visit Alabama Nature Center Forest Avenue future scientists in 2nd grade enjoyed going to the Alabama Nature Center today. Students went on a hike, got to touch some critters, and went fishing!

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MA Designated Platinum Member of the College Board’s AP Honor Roll

Montgomery Catholic Donates Meals to the Local Community Thanks to the generosity of Montgomery Catholic families and friends a portion of meals packed during the Meals 2 Missions packing day were delivered to our local community. Montgomery Catholic was proud to volunteer with the YMCA’s Brown Bag Bus to deliver meals to the youth of Montgomery and their families.

We also delivered meals to the Heart of Alabama Food Bank to help feed the hungry during this Thanksgiving season. Thank you to both of these organizations and we look forward to finding more ways that we can partner with them to help food insecure families throughout central Alabama.

WINGS Delights ACA Faculty and Staff with Popcorn and Coke Treat

ACA’s WINGS PTA program added a little extra cheer to the school day by treating faculty and staff to a delightful popcorn cart experience.

Teachers and staff members were invited to create their own “sweet and salty” popcorn combinations and pair them with an ice-cold Coke.

The event was a huge hit, with the aroma of freshly popped popcorn filling the air and plenty of smiles to go around. WINGS, which stands for *Working and Investing to Nurture Growth and Success*, has been dedicated to uplifting ACA’s educators and staff with thoughtful and fun initiatives throughout the year.

Events like this not only show appreciation for the hard work of ACA’s team but also foster a sense of community and joy on campus. Thank you, WINGS, for continuing to make a positive impact and showing how much ACA values its incredible faculty and staff!

River Region Parents I December 2024

MA has been designated a Platinum member of the College Board’s AP School Honor Roll! This is MA’s second consecutive year on the honor roll and the Academy is the only independent school in the River Region to have earned Platinum Status for the 2023-24 school year. The AP® School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs have done outstanding work to welcome students into AP courses and support their path to college success. Platinum status is awarded to schools that enable 80% of the next year’s senior class to experience at least one AP course, enable 50% of the senior class to earn college credit by earning an AP exam score of 3, and create opportunities for at least 15% of the Class of 2025 to take a total of 5 AP courses across their high school years.

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Engaging STEM Program at MCS

Montgomery Christian School (MCS) offers a robust STEM program that includes hands-on science labs with their STEM teacher, Mr. Jacob Neils. Fifthgrade students had a blast learning how to create bubbly yeast and exploring its fascinating reaction by viewing it under the microscope in various settings. It was an engaging experience that brought science to life at MCS!

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Veterans Day Program at Bear Exploration Center Fourth graders at Bear Exploration Center put on a Veteran’s Day program entitled, Honoring All Who Served. Families and veterans in our community were invited to attend. Under the direction of Sarah Fell, students sang patriotic tributes to all those who have served our country in all of the branches of the military.

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Bear Honor Choir Students Participate in Festival

Montgomery Catholic Preparatory School

The Honor Choir students from Bear Exploration Center and their music teacher, Sarah Fell, participated in the Alabama Music Education Association’s annual Elementary Music Festival. Fourth through sixth grade students from across the state came together to work with clinicians and create two different choirs. The choirs performed that night for family and friends.

Christ’s Light in the River Region for 150 Years.

Send Your News by the 12th of each month: deanne@riverregion parents.com.

Hands-On Science Lab at MCS

Third graders at Montgomery Christian School (MCS) dove into hands-on learning in the science lab with a flower dissection activity! They carefully studied and identified each part of the flower, then had the pleasure of delivering a beautiful pink bouquet to their principal, Stephenie Price. It was a fun and memorable way to combine science with a thoughtful gesture. Every student at MCS learns not only through reading, but also with connecting the books to actual creative experiences.

This is Catholic.

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Montgomery Academy Girls Cross Country Wins State 3A Championship Congratulations to our MA Cross Country teams! MAXC girls laid claim to the 3A State Championship, while the boys placed second at the 3A level! Along with the team trophies came a number of Top 15 individual medal finishes and some truly incredible PR times— some team members managed to shave anywhere between 45 seconds to a full minute off their previous personal records!

Goldfish Swim School Visits RR Academy

G.W. Carver Students Learn About Skin Burns

Goldfish Swim School visited River Region Academy to teach our students about water safety, an essential foundation for all further lessons. Here, we see Bubbles with an instructor along with some of our students.

On Halloween, at G.W. Carver High school, in Caryn Barnes’ class (Human Anatomy), seniors dove deep into the Integumentary System, learning about how skin burns are classified. To bring these concepts to life, students creatively constructed realistic burns on themselves, providing a hands-on experience that enhances their understanding of the material.

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Trinity Senior Signs to Play Basketball at Samford Trinity School senior Francie Morris has taken the next big step in her basketball career by signing with Samford University.

Known for her determination, leadership, and talent on the court, Francie has made a lasting impact at Trinity and now looks forward to bringing her skills to the collegiate level. The Trinity community celebrates this incredible accomplishment and can’t wait to see all that Francie will achieve at Samford.

Congratulations, Francie!

TEA Christian Academy Students’ Seminar on Life and Decisions Jerry Morris, the Business Engagement Specialist for the Montgomery Job Corps Center provided the students at Talent Education and Art Christian Academy, Inc. a mentoring seminar on life, and preparing for the future. The students were very excited, and asked various questions as they were given a task on how to spend their earned income.

Oh yes! They were in disbelief to find out how expensive living on their own really is.

Career paths were a major focus during the seminar. TEA Academy continues to provide students with meaningful opportunities for learning and growth. We are grateful for the opportunity to have Mr. Morris to serve as our mentor for the month of November, said Bonnie Robinson the vice principal, who also assists with various events and activities. Thank you so much Mr. Morris for your support, and for encouraging our students to always make good choices.

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Macon East Students Participate in AISA All-Star Football Saint James School-Wide Community Day

Trinity Sophmore

Eight Macon East student-athletes Saint James School Named Finalist were honored toplaces participate in the a strong em2022 AISA All-Star Football game in Speech and phasis on community held Decemberservice 2 at Cramton Bowl.the throughout Debate Tournament Deonte Powell, Sanders Manyear, with a special Trinity School sophomore Caroline ning, Gabe Spencer and Hunter focus on Community Rogers Tillman all represented Macon Day. Held on Friday, showEast for the East team. Gabe Spencer was honored as Most Outstanding Offensive Back November 1, this herKate Hodges and Mikalah Macon East Fourth for the East team. Madison May, Ar’monni Payne,cased Hannah annual day of service exceptional Belser cheered the East team on from the sidelines as part of the all-star cheerleading Graders Enjoy Field Trip brought together stutalentwith at the squad.

The participants enjoyed a few days of practice their fellow AISA teammates.

Ms. Johnson’s fourth enjoyedfrom preschool to high school. dentsgrade from class all divisions, Prattville The East team beat the West team this year 36-22. an educational field trip this past Friday The elementary students in preschool decorated posters for community helpers, such as High School that goes along with their study of Alabama local firefighters and police. Students in Kindergarten and 1st grade colored thank you Speech State History. The students were able to tour pictures for Veterans in the VA hospital. Upper elementary students made a pennant banner and Debate Alabama’s historic Capitol. They were able to hang in the VA hospital.

Tournament, to view the beautiful rotunda, the spiral stairMiddle school students organized donations for Adullam House and Mercy House, sorting Road High where Pike she case, the Avenue of Flags, and the portraits clothing, sporting equipment, toys, blankets, and household items. High school students of the former governors. The students also placed as School Leo Club contributed their time to various non-profits around the city, with seniors packing food boxes enjoyed touring The First White House of the a finalist. at the Heart of Alabama Food Bank and other classes volunteering at Dream Court, Lanark Collects Chrismtas Confederacy and The Alabama Department Competing Nature Center, Brantwood Children’s Home, Crowne Health, MAP Center, Family Sunshine of Archives and History. Their special treat againstToys students fromKids across Alafor Center, and the Child Protect golf tournament. added to an already fun-filled day was eating Our Leo club did a great bama, Caroline impressed the job judges This day of service is organized by the Saint James high school SGA in coordination with lunch at Chris’ Famous Hot Dogs. collecting toys to help make with her informative speech on the Volunteer Venna Everett Special Coordinator thanks to Mrs. Custard andand herelementary school principal Andrea Harris. This is a Christmas merry and bright for forgotten Brontë sister, Anne Brontë. part of the Saint James School focus of “Character, Commitment, Courage, and Community.” daughter for taking time to guide us and give lots of children! their expertise at all these historic places.

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Montgomery Academy Honors Veterans

Bear Students’ Artwork on Display at MMFA Bear Exploration Center has twelve works of art exhibited in the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts’ ArtWorks Community Gallery exhibit entitled, “You, Me, Us”. Students created self-portraits and other works of art that told a story about their life or their community. Students and their families were invited to the opening reception. Student artists are Sierra Allen, Jalaya Trapp, Purity Umeh, Gemma Bazzell, Luciana Sides, Aubrie Daniels, Joseph Crosby, Jonta Weeks, Teagan Brown, Mary Gehring, Naomi Ward, and Brookley Sanders. Pictured are three of the artists with visual arts teacher Mrs. Bonikowski and principal Dr. Williams.

On Friday, November 8, Montgomery Academy held an assembly to honor and recognize family members of our current students who have served or are serving in our military. The gathering featured performances from the Lower School Eagleaires Chorus, a presentation from members of the Speech & Debate team, and a reading by Leo Wang (‘29) of his essay, “What Does Freedom Mean to Me?” MA extends its gratitude to all military members and their families for their service.

Trinity Veterans Day Celebration Trinity School recently brought their community together for a heartfelt Veterans Day celebration. The event honored the courage and sacrifice of veterans and active military members connected to the school. Special military guests joined us for the day, which featured incredible performances by the Trinity Band, Upper School Show Choir, and Middle School Choir.

This meaningful tradition highlights what makes Trinity unique: a school where faith, community, and excellence are at the heart of everything we do. It was a special day for our students and families to reflect on the importance of service and gratitude.

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Saint James Arts Department Presents Arts Showcase On Thursday, November 21, the Saint James Arts Department held its annual Arts Showcase. The event featured performances by the STJ Jazz Band, Elementary Choir, Middle School Choir, High School Choir, Trojanettes dance team, and many talented students who performed various group and solo acts. The audience enjoyed watching several scenes from the fall play, Radium Girls. Guests also enjoyed watercolor and printmaking stations where they created unique custom artwork led by our STJ Visual Arts teachers and students.

From the visual art pieces displayed in the gallery, to the captivating theatrical performances that filled the auditorium, the event underscored the school’s dedication to fostering artistic growth and self-expression in every student. The evening also highlighted the collaborative nature of the arts programs at Saint James, where students across grade levels and disciplines work together to bring their creative visions to life.

“We are so proud of our students and the incredible work they’ve done in the arts this year,” said Mr. Lonny Harrison, Director of Theatre at Saint James School. “The showcase allowed us to come together as a community and celebrate the creativity and hard work of our arts students.”

The arts showcase is held annually to celebrate the remarkable talents and accomplishments of students across all divisions in the visual and performing arts.

Resurrection Catholic Stands Up Against Bullying Resurrection Catholic School stands up against bullying! Thank you, Monique Davis, Founder of the Jamari Terrell Williams Foundation for taking time to talk to us about the devastating impact of bullying!

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MA’s 9th Annual STEAMfest a Big Success On Saturday, November 16, several hundred students and families attended our 9th annual STEAMfest held at the Lower School campus. This year’s event was one of the largest yet and included more than fifty handson activities designed to engage students ages Pre-K-6th grade.

Thirteen community partners participated this year and the majority of attendees were from outside of the MA community. We are looking forward to next year’s milestone 10th annual event.

Kindergarten Service Projects at Forest Avenue

The Forest Avenue kindergarteners in Ms. Ausley, Mrs. Allred and Mrs. Thomas’ classes have been working on a service project this year. They are collecting cake mixes and frostings for Love Loud Montgomery. Love Loud distributes food to needy families in the River Region. Each month the classes bring in cake mixes, frostings, brownie mixes and cookie mixes. At the end of the month we sort, count and graph the mixes and then pack them up for delivery. In two months, the kindergarteners have collected 103 mixes!

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Carver High Students Serve at Southlawn Fall Festival CHS Ambassadors served at Southlawn Elementary School’s Fall Festival, engaging in community service by helping with the fun festivities; setting an example for the future wolverines!

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

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Saint James Choir Attends Auburn University’s Honor Choir Festival

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Mock Voting at G.W. Carver

The Saint James School High School Choir attended Auburn University’s Honor Choir Festival held in September. Students enjoyed workshops and rehearsals with the esteemed Dr. Rosephanye Powell, toured campus, and experienced moving performances by Auburn University vocal ensembles. It was a fun day building relationships and developing choral skills. The Saint James School choral program is led by Dr. Sallye York.

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Mrs. Burton-Hines and Ms. Ware prepared a “Mock Voting” station for students to get handson experience and be a part of the moment.

Rosa Parks and so many others would be overjoyed.

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Carver School of Mathematics, Science and Technology Receives Top Ranking

Montgomery Catholic Students Celebrate All Saints Day

Montgomery Catholic 2nd and 8th graders chose a Saint to research in honor of All Saints Day on November 1st. They spent time learning about their Saint and then dressed up as them and gave presentations on the life of their Saint to their classmates.

Catholics celebrate All Saints Day, as a day to venerate all of the holy men and women that have gone before us and been canonized as Saints by the Church.

Our goal as a school is to not only educate our students, but to help each one of them get to Heaven. All of our students pray this prayer daily as a reminder that we are called to a higher purpose.

Heavenly Father, Your Word tells us that we are all called to sainthood. We ask that You send the Holy Spirit upon us to guide and direct our hearts towards heaven. May we be faithful in our actions as we work daily to remember we are called to be different, called to be better, and called to be disciples. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ and the intercession of His blessed mother Mary. Amen.

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The Carver School of Mathematics, Science and Technology earned another significant honor recently with a top ranking for elementary schools in the state of Alabama.

Carver MST, focused on preparing students for STEAM-related college and career pathways, ranked #9 out of 667 schools across the state, according to U.S. News and & World Report. The rankings were part of an updated list of Best Elementary and Middle Schools published Nov. 14. The school earned an overall 98.8 out of 100 score.

The report highlighted the school’s high-performing math (72%) and reading (85%) proficiency levels when compared to other elementary schools across the state. When considering ranking factors, the publication classified the school’s proficiency percentages were “well above expectations.”

“It means that all of this hard work that our students and teachers have put in has paid off,” said Chris Payne, Carver MST Principal. “It is an honor that is a great reflection of the commitment of our students to achieve at the highest level.

We are so proud and it feels like Carver MST is moving in the right direction.”

Carver MST has a passionate staff dedicated to nurturing each child’s potential. Through a standards-based approach to education, students are consistently challenged to exceed grade-level expectations and achieve new heights.

Significantly, Carver MST serves a diverse student population. According to district data reported to the U.S. Department of Education, 58% of the students at the school are “economically disadvantaged” with a nearly 53% minority enrollment. That data also reveals the school has a 23:1 student/teacher ratio.

In September, Carver School of Mathematics, Science and Technology was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School by the U.S. Department of Education. Only five Alabama schools received the distinction. www.riverregionparents.com

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The Power of One: Volunteer Accomplishes Formidable Task for BTW Magnet High School “Hunter is a machine; he is amazing!” Dr. Quesha Starks, Principal of Booker T. Washington Magnet High School, emphatically stated on a recent Zoom call with BTW supporters discussing the opening of the new school year. “He is a one-man assembly line and incredible to watch – but don’t get in his way. He’s focused, intentional, careful and we can’t thank him enough!” she continued.

All schools, public and private, rely on the support of dedicated volunteers for a host of essential tasks.

Sometimes, special tasks arise. Tasks that seem a tad overwhelming. Just such a monumental task faced the new Booker T. Washington administrators following the completion of the first academic year on the brand-new, state-of-the-art campus now open at 4400 Bell Road.

The task? Crates and pallet-loads of unassembled, but essential, school furniture: desks, tables, credenzas, podiums, chairs and other specialty, one-of-kind items. Through insurance and federal ESSER funds, BTW received allocations for furniture, some of which was delivered unassembled on pallets in huge boxes. While custodians and maintenance staff whittled slowly over the gargantuan task, an enormous amount remained. With increased enrollment, the room being occupied by these pallets and crates was needed, as were the contents. The answer: volunteers.

Enter, Airman First Class Hunter Locklear. New to both the Air Force – he has served just under 18 months of his 6-year commitment -- and the Maxwell-Gunter-Montgomery community (he arrived in Montgomery in February 2024), Hunter will be forever “adopted” by the BTW community. Primarily by himself, he tackled a gargantuan task in clearing this mountainous backlog, working Saturdays and some Sundays for nearly five full months. With a tool kit and a mind attuned to detail, he set to work one box, one crate, one item at a time. While many would have shied away from a return visit after the first arduous day of work, he was thrilled to see the tangible accomplishment, and returned – weekend after weekend after weekend. “I enjoy a challenge, and I like to be productive. This work isn’t “busy” work; it’s necessary, and it’s needed, and there are tangible rewards, too. Dr. Starks buys me lunch every day I work!” Locklear said with a grin. Dr. Starks responded with “It’s the least I can do for all his selfless efforts!”

The “Power of One” is alive and well-represented by this incredible young man with a servant’s heart. When our news sources are filled with negative images and violence, it is reassuring and reaffirming that the future will also be represented by generous spirits like Hunter Locklear.

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

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Veteran’s Day Guest at Resurrection Catholic Resurrection Catholic School welcomed Chief Master Sergeant Mataya Wright Williams in honor of Veterans Day!

International STEM Day at Bear Exploration In celebration of International STEM Day, Bear Exploration Center students dressed up as their favorite STEM professionals. Scientists, engineers, astronauts, teachers, veterinarians, doctors, and nurses, just to name a few, were represented. Parent guest speakers also came to discuss various STEM fields and encourage our future STEM professionals.

Special Guest at Resurrection Catholic School Phillip Ensler, Member of the Alabama State House of Representatives, District 74 stops by Resurrection Catholic. He spoke to 5th graders about politics and the importance of voting.

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ACA Hosts Another Successful Golf Tournament Alabama Christian Academy recently held its annual golf tournament at the Arrowhead Country Club, and the event was a resounding success. With over 25 foursomes participating, the tournament showcased the strong support of the ACA community and raised valuable funds for ACA athletics.

To accommodate the impressive turnout, the tournament featured two separate time slots, allowing players to enjoy 18 holes of golf each. The day was filled with friendly competition, camaraderie, and plenty of memorable moments on the course.

Participants also enjoyed an array of giveaways, adding to the excitement and celebratory atmosphere of the event. This year’s tournament further cemented itself as a beloved tradition, uniting the community in support of ACA’s athletic programs.

A heartfelt thank-you goes out to all players, sponsors, and volunteers who contributed to making this event such a success. ACA looks forward to continuing this tradition and strengthening its commitment to athletic excellence in the years to come.

Saint James Celebrates Military with Veterans Day Assembly On Friday, November 8th, Saint James School celebrated Veterans Day with a school-wide assembly. Saint James School is honored to have more than 90 military families, representing both the United States and its international allies, as part of the Trojan family this year.

The assembly began with a patriotic prelude performed by the Saint James School Band, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Senior Class President Pruitt Conner. The STJ band and combined choirs then led students in the singing of the National Anthem.

Head of School Dr. Larry McLemore welcomed Col. Benjamin Hatch as our 2024 guest speaker. Col. Hatch is the Commandant of Air University’s Air Command and Staff College. He received his commission in 2001 through Officer Training School, Maxwell Air Force Base and has spent much of his career as a Special Agent with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. A combat veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan, he holds qualifications as a military parachutist, pathfinder, and SCUBA diver and has an extensive background in Air Force Special Warfare. Colonel Hatch holds three graduate degrees, including a Master of Arts in Government from Johns Hopkins University in Maryland, as well as two master’s degrees from Air University. He was a 2024 Fellow at the University of Southern California, graduating from the SHIELD Executive Program in Global Space and Deterrence. Col. Hatch and his wife Audrey have three sons at Saint James: Hoyt who is in 4th grade, and twins Grant and Mitchell, who are in Kindergarten.

Following Col. Hatch’s address, Amelia Rasmussen, STJ middle school student and daughter of Air Force officers, sang a solo feature from Song for the Unsung Hero, accompanied by the STJ band and combined choirs. SGA President Lily Everett delivered the closing prayer. Students dressed in red, white, and blue to commemorate the day. Saint James School is grateful for the men and women who defend our freedoms and we are proud of our military community.

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Success Unlimited Academy Announces Spelling Bee Winners

Success Unlimited Academy held its annual spelling bee competition on October 24, 2024 . This annual event challenges students to learn to spell over 250 words prior to the school’s spelling bee. Held in Hawkins Hall on the lower campus, participants in grades 3rd through 8th worked individually and collectively to learn the correct spelling of the official spelling bee list. All participants received medals and certificates for their participation.

The 2024 spelling bee winners for elementary were Asher Morrow - 3rd grade, Cathe Pouncy - 4th grade, and Ava Hayes - 5th grade. Winners for middle school were Joel Johnson - 6th grade, JaMarcus Farrior - 7th grade, and Rasheed Loudermilk - 8th grade. The winners presented a trophy, certificate and a Chick-Fil-A gift card by Susan Alred, SUA’s headmaster and Pam Watson, SUA’s spelling bee coordinator. Winners in grades 5th through 8th will advance to the AISA District spelling bee. Congratulations to all!

Halloween Fun at Resurrection Catholic School Resurrection Catholic School celebrates Halloween with students and staff.

Everyone was invited to dress up and have an extra fun day!

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Send Your School News and Photos to: deanne@riverregionparents.com.

Mock Elections at Forest Avenue Academic Magnet Forest Avenue 2nd graders exercised their right to vote in their own Mock Election!

Macon East Students Signs to Play Softball with Tuskegee University Miya Tatum, a senior at Macon East Academy, recently signed with Tuskegee University to play softball, fulfilling her dream of continuing her athletic career at the collegiate level. Miya transferred to Macon East in 2022, where she quickly made an impact, leading the Knights in hitting as a sophomore and batting .484 last season. Her performance helped the team secure back-to-back state championships. Last season, she also set a school record with 20 home runs. Miya has played nearly every position for the Knights, including outfield, shortstop, second base, and pitcher, but was recruited by Tuskegee to pitch and play shortstop—her favorite position. She is determined to help lead Macon East Academy to a third consecutive state championship before moving on to Tuskegee University. Congratulations Miya!

ACA’s Fall Festival Brings Fun, Food and Festivities

The Alabama Christian Academy Fall Festival was a resounding success, bringing families, students, and the community together for an evening of fun and celebration. From the vibrant atmosphere to the diverse activities, this year’s festival had something for everyone.

The silent auction was a highlight of the evening, with attendees enthusiastically bidding on a variety of exciting items and baskets. The country kitchen was another crowd favorite, offering homemade goodies that delighted taste buds and brought a touch of nostalgia.

Children and families enjoyed a variety of fun-filled activities, including carnival games, bounce houses, and face painting, ensuring smiles all around.

The event perfectly captured the spirit of community and camaraderie that ACA is known for.

Thanks to the hard work of the organizers, volunteers, and staff, the festival not only created cherished memories but also successfully supported school initiatives. ACA extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who participated and contributed to making the event a triumph. We look forward to next year’s festival being even bigger and better!

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A Season of Progress and Gratitude As we approach the holiday season and the end of the first semester, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been an incredible few months for our school community. This semester has been marked by progress, achievement, and a shared commitment to growth, and I am proud of what we have accomplished together.

Our district saw gains on the state report card, with all of our schools earning either an A or B. Most importantly, nearly every area showed improvement—a testament to the hard work of our students, teachers, and staff. We also broke ground on a significant milestone: the construction of our new high school. With site work nearing completion

River Region Parents I December 2024

and plans for a permanent central office underway, we are laying the foundation for a bright future, quite literally.

In addition to academic success, our athletic teams have excelled, with many competing beyond their regular seasons and even making appearances at the state level.

On the communication front, we’ve streamlined our outreach by adopting a single, unified platform—Rooms—to ensure parents stay informed and connected.

December is a busy time for everyone, but especially for our high school students as they prepare for semester exams. These assessments can be challenging, but they also represent an opportunity for growth. To support our students, we’re proud to offer free before- and after-school tutoring sessions at the Junior High and High School for all core subjects. I encourage parents to help their children by ensuring they get adequate rest and offering words of encouragement.

Teachers are working to prepare students, and your support at home can make a huge difference.

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This season can also be hectic with school and family commitments, from holiday movie nights and children’s programs to class parties and more. It’s a time to come together as a community, leaning on one another through challenges, celebrating our successes, and finding joy in the little things.

As we close out the semester, I hope you take time to reflect on the many reasons we have to be grateful. Whether through learning, teaching, testing, or planning, let’s remember to share kindness and joy with those around us. Together, we are building a stronger community for our children and for each other.

Wishing you a happy and meaningful holiday season!

Superintendent, Dr. Keith Lankford has a wealth of experience in public education in Alabama. Before earning his Bachelor’s, Master’s, Education Specialist, and Doctorate, Dr. Lankford served several years in the Army and the National Guard. He has worked at almost every level of education, including paraprofessional, teacher, principal, and superintendent.

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Macon East Congratulates Spelling Bee Winners

Macon East Academy proudly congratulates its 4th-8th grade students who participated in the AISA District Spelling Bee, hosted by Chambers Academy. 6th grader Lane Wallace earned an impressive 2nd place at the district level. The local winners at Macon East were: 4th Grade: Winner – Bryson Hood, Alternate – Cooper Cannon 5th Grade: Winner – Case Sanford, Alternate – Lathan Glass 6th Grade: Winner – Lane Wallace, Alternate – JT Faulkner 7th Grade: Winner – Halyn Wren, Alternate – Rhyann Kendrick 8th Grade: Winner – Bella Ann Spires, Alternate – Conner Wallace The students showcased their hard work and spelling skills, and we are proud of them.

PRHS Theatre Presents: Murder on the Orient Express

Congratulations to the cast of Agatha Christie’s Murder on the Orient Express. The first high school production of the year was a huge success! The eclectic group of characters kept the energy high and the audience guessing as Detective Hercule Poirot (played by Ever Moates) worked to discover who was responsible for the death of one of the passengers.

Veterans Day Assembly at Pike Road High School

The High School Students to Students (S2S) hosted an assembly to thank our Veterans. Pike Road School’s father, and husband, SMSgt Jarvis Wilson of the United States Air Force was the guest speaker, reminding us of the courage, service, and sacrifice of Veterans. The assembly was opened with everyone saying the Pledge of Allegiance followed by the High School Choirs singing the National Anthem. The Pike Road Band played the United States Armed Forces Medley, inviting service men and women to stand while the song representing their branch of service was played. Band Director, Patrick Darby concluded the ceremony with the playing of Taps.

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Pike Road Robotics Team Competes in Area Tournament

Congratulations to all three PRS Robotics teams that competed in the Montgomery Area VEX Robotics Tournament. Each team advanced to the quarterfinals, with two of the teams battling their way to the semifinals. Mechanized Metal advanced to the semifinals; Team Legacy advanced to the quarterfinals; Team Quackheads advanced to the semifinals, won Design Award, and are currently ranked #2 in the state for MS World Skills Rankings.

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Two PRS Teachers Awarded Guardian Credit Union Grant

Two Pike Road Elementary School teachers were awarded a grant from Guardian Credit Union.

Misty Trussell, Gifted Teacher at PRES, received the Teach For Tomorrow Grant

titled, “Empowering The Rookie To Navigate What Life Throws At You.” The grant money will be used to purchase resources for her gifted classes.

Haley Warren, Special Education Teacher at PRES plans to purchase new adaptive equipment for the playground. www.riverregionparents.com

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Veterans Breakfast Hosted by PRIS PRIS held its Annual Veterans Day Breakfast for PRIS-connected veterans and their learners. The students and teachers celebrated all branches of service men and women and the C4 class sang “The Star Spangled Banner” for them. This special event was planned and organized by Mrs. Sulhoff, a C6 lead learner. PRIS thanks all veterans for their service and are thrilled to celebrate you!

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Send School News and photos by the 15th of each month to: deanne@ riverregionparents.com.

Macon East Volleyball All-Stars Honored

Macon East Academy seniors, Katie Kitchens and Jadah Powell, represented the Knights in the AISA All-Star Volleyball game at the Cramton Bowl Multiplex on October 26. Their Blue Team defeated the Red Team at the event honoring senior all-star athletes.

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As we approach the holiday season, I want to express my sincere gratitude for our students, faculty & staff members, families, and the local community!

The human element of our district is the engine that drives us to be successful day after day. Your dedication and resilience to educating future generations of business and community leaders is what makes the difference, and will be the very thing that pushes us through adversity in the future.

The holidays are a time to celebrate our collective achievements and look

ahead to the opportunities and challenges the new year will bring. While change is on the horizon following the ad valorem school tax referendum defeat, I’m more than pleased to share that Autauga County Schools continues to make academic progress under the care of some of the best educators in the business. We are still working through what the future of our system looks like, but please know that we desire to provide our students with everything they need to be successful in school while also being cognizant that the budget balances at the end of every year. I encourage you to connect with ACS on social media and register to receive district news and events by visiting ACBOE.net/communitycounts as we announce consolidation plans.

In many ways, the work has just begun. But together, we will do the work that is necessary to maintain a thriving system where all students are known and valued. We will continue to make the sacrifices that are required to give our students a solid educational foundation. Our students are at the center of every decision we make!

May this holiday season bring you joy, peace, and quality time with your loved ones. Thank you for your continued commitment to making our schools a place where all students can thrive.

Lyman Woodfin is a 18-year veteran of the school system having served as a classroom teacher, coach, and school administrator. He is married to Staci and they have five children who attend school in the district.

Dynam te Magic and Balloons

Magician Balloon artist Balloon decorating Stilt walking Clowns Yard card Messages

Entertainment for all ages

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Autaugaville JH Football Undefeated

ACS Special Education Trunk or Treat

Congratulations! The Autaugaville School junior high football team went undefeated in a 7-0 season. “I am extremely proud of this team,” said Coach Javaris Jackson. “The perseverance and passion they displayed for the sport of football was unmatched, and for that, I am forever grateful.”

The district’s Special Education Department rode the big wave as a part of this year’s Autauga Children’s Policy Council Special Needs Trunk or Treat. The underthe-sea-themed trunk was whale-sized fun for the dozens of children and their families who attended the event.

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Water Safety Lessons for Autauga County Students

Autaugaville Student Named Alabama FBLA Advisor

Autauga County Schools’ second graders recently enjoyed a fun day at the Prattville YMCA swimming pool for some very important lessons about water safety! As a part of an annual partnership, students learn the basics of being safe in and around water through classroom instruction and in-water activities.

Tatum Northington, Autaugaville School’s Future Business Leaders of America Sponsor, was named the Alabama FBLA Advisor of the Month! She is new to the organization but has embraced the mission to provide her students with every opportunity to succeed as individuals and a growing chapter.

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Daniel Pratt Election Day Activities

Pine Level Students Study Charlie and the Chocolate Factory

A presidential election year is cause for lots of lessons about our democracy and citizenship. Several classes at DPES participated in special Election Day activities on Nov 5.

Students learned about the campaign process, popular and electoral votes, registration procedures, why it’s important to exercise our right to vote, how to deal with differing opinions with respect and kindness. Classes participated in voting for favorite candies, cookies, sodas, and soft drinks.

Mrs. Mooney’s 5th grade class at Pine Level Elementary School ended their novel study on Charlie and the Chocolate Factory with their own Golden Ticket finding, accompanied by a movie and book comparison!

After students used this familiar novel to focus on identifying literary skills such as: types of characters, conflicts, determining themes, and so much more, each student had the chance to experience Charlie Bucket’s perspective of finding the Golden Ticket as they opened their own Wonka Bar. At the end of their own Golden Ticket finding, students compared and contrasted the classic novel to the movie.

PCA Basketball Player Hits 1,000th Point Kayden Carr hit her 1,000th career point in only her sophomore year, the fastest in PCA basketball history to reach this milestone.

Remembering Tim Tidmore, Autauga County Schools’ First Appointed Superintendent Autauga County Schools is saddened to share the passing of Tim Tidmore, the district’s first appointed Superintendent, serving from 2021-2023. The district confirmed that Mr. Tidmore passed away after an extended illness.

Mr. Tidmore was a dedicated leader, friend, and family man who made a lasting impact on the lives of those he worked with and served.

His work in education, particularly federal programs, impacted many thousands of students and their families. His leadership of and contributions to Autauga County Schools, especially during the tumultuous COVID years, are much appreciated by those he served alongside. Mr. Tidmore’s tenure was marked by a deep care for his students and staff, as well as a commitment to fostering educational growth, even in the face of challenges. His retirement in 2023 was a testament to his desire to spend more time with his loved ones, after a remarkable career that spanned more than three decades.

“Mr. Tidmore’s legacy will live on through the countless lives he touched as a champion of education,” said Lyman Woodfin, Superintendent of Autauga County Schools. “Please keep his family in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.”

As Autauga County School’s first appointed Superintendent, Mr. Tidmore’s accomplishments included capital improvements at Marbury High School and the Autauga County Technology Center, academic initiatives designed to grow students by meeting their unique needs, and the construction of the new Prattville Kindergarten School.

Spiritual Emphasis Day at PCA

PCA held its Upper School Spiritual Emphasis Day earlier this week with a college game day theme to encourage students to “get in the game.” Students heard from multiple speakers discussing many important topics like decision-making, spending time in God’s Word consistently, self-worth, discipline, and more.

Special Needs Fall Festival at PCA

PCA’s Junior Civitan hosted a Special Needs Fall Festival with face painting, games, hayrides, food, and fun!! We are so grateful for the opportunity to connect with our community and make valuable friendships.

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ESL Back to School Luau for Autauga County Schools

Amazing After-School Tutoring at Pine Level Elementary

Autauga County Schools’ ESL Program had a massive turnout for its first-ever Back to School Luau! Thanks to several community businesses, EL families from across the district were invited to celebrate a successful start to the school year with pizza, games, and time spent getting to know each other.

Pine Level Elementary School’s after-school tutoring teachers are working hard to meet the needs of all our learners. After a long day of learning in the classroom, some students are frustrated and not exactly excited about staying for more learning. Our tutors are doing an amazing job preparing lessons that are engaging students in a way that makes them excited to learn.

We are grateful to both students and teachers that put in the extra time and effort to make our after-school program a success!

Daniel Pratt Visits STARBASE Prattville Intermediate Holds School-Wide Scavenger Hunt PIS families raced against the clock to solve riddles and find the clues located all over campus at the first annual school-wide scavenger hunt! Prattville Intermediate had such a wonderful time hosting this event and seeing how each Cougar family worked together. The reward was delicious Hooey Magoo’s! It is always great to have our Cougar families in the building and we are looking forward to many more amazing family events this year!

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Many of us can still recall that teacher from our childhood that made a difference in our lives. Teachers “back then” often spent their entire career in the classroom teaching children. Sometimes they retired after 30 or more years of service, having spent their entire career in the same classroom at the same school. There was generally little turnover; however, in the event a principal needed to fill a position, properly certified candidates were readily available, and the interview process was very competitive.

Fast forward to 2024, and it is easy to see how drastically things have changed in public education. “Teacher shortage” is a frequent and recurring topic among district and school administrators, teacher education programs at colleges and universities, and the Alabama Department of Education.

Of the 149 city and county school systems in Alabama, the vast majority have been forced to hire teachers on emergency or provisional certificates, which indicates teacher shortages across the state. Elmore County currently has 101 teachers on emergency, interim, or provisional certificates meaning they did not graduate from a teacher education program at a college or university and are pursuing certification via an alternative route.

Recruiting and retaining teachers is a priority across the state. Classroom teachers are the single most influential people in a child’s education. Their impact on students cannot be overstated, and we know how critically important it is to place the best, most qualified teachers in every classroom.

One step we have taken in Elmore County is the establishment of a Teacher Task Force which began meeting in the fall of 2021. The goal of the Teacher Task Force is to gather information to help us address the needs and concerns of classroom teachers as well as identify what steps we can take to help us increase their retention. We have imple-

mented a number of their suggestions and recommendations, and we look forward to their ongoing positive impact.

If you or someone you know is contemplating a career change or you desire to work in a position where you can make a lasting impact in the lives of children, I urge you to consider the teaching profession. There are several ways to achieve teacher certification, and our Human Resources Department can provide you with that information. Please visit our website, www.elmoreco.com, or call us at (334) 567-1200.

Our great teachers help us fulfil our purpose, day in and day out: Every Student Empowered – Every Student Succeeds.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all!

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

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DID YOU KNOW? Receiving the Flu and Pneumonia vaccines can help reduce illnesses, doctor visits, hospitalization, missed work, and missed school.

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Don’t Interrogate

The first time I attended the wedding of a friend, I knew exactly what to do. I brought a gift, set it on the gift table, and sat on the bride’s side of the aisle. I took advantage of the open bar, and joined the other guests in celebrating the couple. Later, I’d learn you have a year to give a gift, and never to expect the cake to be moist. By the time I got married, I’d been in so many weddings I could have filled the role of bridesmaid blindfolded with my hands bound behind my back. I was a pro when it came to helping friends tie the knot.

But when it came to helping friends through divorce, I was as comfortable as a seventh-grader at a school dance.

For years, I’d known how to help my bestie through any crisis. I’d functioned as wingman, fashion advisor, therapist, career counselor, and dog sitter. I was there when she met her now ex-husband, and I was there to soothe her nerves the first time she met his parents. I knew not to bother talking her out of chocolate pudding for breakfast or running alone at night. Yet, I didn’t know exactly how to help when she got divorced.

If, like me, for most of your adult life, the full extent of your knowledge of how to help a friend navigate a divorce consists of snippets from a grown-up conversation you overheard in the 80’s, read on.

When you ask questions about how the split happened, you might think you’re expressing interest or concern, but it doesn’t necessarily come off that way. As one of my friends recalled over a decade after the fact, “Many people had a million nosy, judgy questions that just made me cry even harder. Like I was supposed to explain to them how it came about.” Remember, the vibe you’re going for is Friends, not CSI.

Don’t Judge

You might have your own ideas about why the marriage didn’t last, but that is not what your friend wants to hear right now (or maybe ever). Comments like “Of course your marriage didn’t work out because you’re too...” are helpful only if they end with “too good for him/her.” Unless your friend specifically asks you what you think went wrong, keep it to yourself. Said one friend, “The people who were just completely accepting and supportive were the best.”

Validate

Divorce has essentially flipped your friend’s whole life upside down. Regardless of the circumstances, the process can be scary, disorienting, and overwhelming, which can cause him or her to second guess the decision. One friend described, “going blank” at times, like you would during trauma. She recalled how important it was for friends to remind her of the details of why she made the choice to leave and all the actions she took to try to save the marriage.

The following tips are based on the experiences of friends of have been through divorce and were kind enough to share their stories with me.

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Be a Haven

who kept showing up, extending invitations to coffee, and “continuing to call, even when I was at the point where I ‘should’ be okay but I wasn’t, and asking how I was, then not flinching when I gave an honest response.”

When your friend is going through a divorce, she may not know where she fits in anymore, especially if she’s separated (emotionally or geographically) from family. An invitation to dinner, especially at the holidays, goes a long way.

If dinner isn’t your jam, give your friend liquid nutrition and laughs. One friend remembered, in the tender weeks following her divorce, “the best person just made time to let me crash on her couch after her kids went to bed and we drank beer and watched the kind of trashy shows that make you feel like your life is pretty together.”

Be a Cheerleader

Let your friend know you believe in them. One friend described the wrenching decision to leave his partner just one month prior to the wedding and how powerful it was to receive a letter from a family member. “[She wrote that] I made the most difficult decision of my life. Plenty of people would have gone through with [the wedding]. I carry that card in my bag every day. It meant the world to me when I felt like I was the worst type of human being.”

Other friends recalled appreciating the advice to go out, have experiences, and figure out who you are without him, and to be selfish for a while.

Give a Gift

It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive to show you care. One friend, recalling her long-ago divorce, mentioned a simple fridge magnet with a heart on it that a friend sent her. “Every time I opened the refrigerator I knew she was thinking of me.”

It turns out, being a friend through a divorce isn’t much different than being a friend through the rest of life’s messes.

As my best friend recalled, while she and her ex were splitting up, I did better than I thought I did, as a friend. “You didn’t give advice and you listened, and that’s the best you can do for someone.” rrp

Do a Task

It’s nice to say, “Let me know if there’s anything I can do,” but what really helps is rolling up your sleeves and working. One friend recalled being grateful when someone cleaned out her fridge without being asked, when another friend helped reset all her bank passwords, and for the people who took on housework and childcare.

This article was originally published on Motherly.

Show Up

Pam Moore is an award-winning freelance writer, intuitive eating coach, and host of the Real Fit podcast. Get her free guide to improving your body image at pam-moore.com.

And keep showing up, over and over. Said one friend, in the wake of her divorce, she was grateful for a handful of friends

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by Kim Spivey

What has been the most joyful part of having a two-year-old grandchild?

and always used the same large wooden bowl to make biscuits. My granddaughter was fussing while we were cooking dinner, so I placed her in a bamboo seat on the counter and talked her through every step, which quieted her. Recently, I let her stand on a stool, pulled out the big bowl, and let her add ingredients, mix with her hands, and roll them out.

The most joyful part of having a two-year-old granddaughter is watching her language develop and her personality change. It is mesmerizing to watch her play and see her imagination begin to come to life. Also, as her language/vocabulary grows, I love hearing how she pronounces certain words. We have taken a ton of videos, so we have evidence.

How did your granddaughter become interested in watching baptism on television at such a young age?

How does it make you feel that your granddaughter, Joie Benson, lives across the street from you?

My daughter and I are both children’s pastors, so Joie Benson spends much time at church. Our church is experiencing a lot of people accepting Christ and desiring to be baptized (105 so far this year). My husband usually takes her to one or two weekly services because she enjoys the music. Baptisms happen at the very beginning of the service, so she has seen them repeatedly. She started asking me each morning if I was going to baptize someone.

The land (three acres) across the street from us came up for sale, and we were thrilled that they chose to purchase it and build a home. The best thing was that they stayed in our house while building, so Joie Benson was born and lived with us for almost a year.

We can share a garden with them and a mutual neighbor. It melts my heart that she is big enough to run across the field yelling, “JackJack.” It’s a dream come true.

What has surprised you most about being a grandparent?

What was the inspiration for naming Joie Benson after both of her grandfathers?

Her name came from the desire to use family names. My daughter loved my grandmother’s middle name, Jo, and always wanted to use it. My son-in-law, Trent, always wanted to use his father’s middle name, Benson, for his little girl and call her “Bennie Bug”. As they discussed combining each of these, they came up with the maternal father’s name, Joey, which includes “Jo” and the paternal father’s middle name, Benson. So, we have a Joie Benson.

Sometimes, she is called JB and Bennie Bug.

Seeing all the items and information my daughter can access has surprised me the most. Being a children’s pastor, I am always around kids and know there is always something new, but this is wild! My daughter was part of a few mommy groups that she had to get off because the moms were downright mean with their opinions. I have encouraged my daughter to have balance. The Bible teaches that older women should be teaching younger women (Titus 2,) so she needs older, wiser women to give her advice.

How did making biscuits with JB become a tradition?

Bio: Jackie Smith has been married to Joey Smith for 32 years. They have two children: a daughter, Hunter, and a son, Christian. The couple resides in Millbrook and treasure living across the street from their granddaughter, Joie Benson.

Making biscuits is one of the earliest memories of my paternal grandmother. She would let me stand in a chair while she cooked River Region Parents I December 2024

Kimberley Carter Spivey is a freelance writer, blogger, author, and entrepreneur. Her debut book Bloom: How to Get from Good Enough to a Life You Love can be purchased on Amazon and girlyouwrite.com.

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Traditionally, Advent calendars are small gifts you open for 24 days in December.

This year, plan 24 activities to enjoy with the family during the holiday season.

Not sure where to start? Check out our list!

1. Make a blanket fort and read a Christmas book. Simply put a large blanket over the kitchen table, add cozy pajamas and a few pillows.

2. Try Christmas Carol Karaoke. Head over to Karafun.com for instrumental versions of Christmas songs as well as lyrics.

3. Have a gingerbread house contest. Break the group into teams or work individually to complete your gingerbread house kit.

4. Purchase cheap canvas and paints from a craft store to paint winter scenes that you can continue to display in January. Holiday paint-by-number sets are fun, too.

5. Have a puzzle night. If you have a competitive family, purchase a few of the same puzzle (100-300 pieces) and see who can finish it the fastest.

6. Make a hot cocoa bar. Fill a crockpot with your favorite hot cocoa recipe and offer mix-ins like candy canes, sprinkles, whipped cream and marshmallows.

8. Cut out snowflakes. You can find directions to make snowflake cutouts on Instructables.com or YouTube. Hang in windows or doorways.

7. Make gifts for Amazon and UPS drivers. Fill a dollar store mug with a hot cocoa pack, and add a candy cane with a note that says, “Just add water.”

9. Make plantable holiday cards. Add torn paper and water to a blender to make a pulp. Add wildflower seeds. Flatten out to dry.

Decorate and give to friends.

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10. Sponsor a family and go shopping together. If you choose a family to sponsor for the holidays, take the kids along to pick out food, clothes or toys.

18. Elf your Neighbors. Create a little basket of goodies – store bought or homemade and leave it at their front door. Leave it anonymous and encourage them to pay it forward.

11. Get outside to play Winter Olympics games. Your games can include relay races, snowball distance throwing or freeing objects from a block of ice.

19. Make a Christmas tree on the wall with Christmas cards you have received. If you don’t know how to display your Christmas cards, why not put them on the wall in the shape of a tree.

12. Visit your local fire station, hospital or police department and drop off some treats. Instead of cookies or candy, try water bottle flavors, granola bars or winter essentials like lip balm.

20. Make food for the birds. Add two cups of birdseed to 1 cup of each of peanut butter, lard, cornmeal, flour and oats. Place in molds until dried. Hang in a nearby tree and watch them eat.

13. Decorate your bedroom doors. Use removable hooks and tape to hang up garland, battery-operated lights or personalized art on your kids bedroom doors.

21. Make appetizers for dinner. If you want to try out new holiday appetizers or sides before preparing them for your guests, this is a fun way to do it.

14. Watch a local holiday play. Small community theatres and local high schools usually have a holiday play or musical that runs in December. Prices are lower and sometimes free.

22. Listen to a Christmas radio show. You can find old radio shows on Spotify or YouTube. Cozy up on the couch with your comfy blankets and warm drinks and enjoy listening.

15. Participate in a holiday-themed 5K. Check out FindARace. com to find December races in your area. Invite family and friends to dress up in Santa hats and run for a charity or just for fun.

23. Do some pre-holiday pampering. Choose a day at the spa or salon or pamper yourself at home with store bought face masks, nail polish and bubble bath.

16. Thrift sweaters to make your own Ugly Christmas Sweater. Decorate with garland, pom poms, buttons, felt, beads and bells.

24. Give Mrs. Claus the night off. With all the shopping and wrapping complete, take time to just admire your hard work and count your blessings. Another holiday season is in the books. rrp

17. Go on a Christmas decoration scavenger hunt in the neighborhood. You can find printables online or create your own. You can also do this with Bingo cards.

Pam Molnar is a writer and mother of three. The joy and craziness of the holiday season fuel her creativity for the rest of the year.

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Safe Tech and Social Media Gift Ideas for Kids Ages 6-16 This Christmas As Christmas approaches, you may face the challenge of choosing fun but also safe and beneficial gifts for your children. In a world increasingly influenced by technology, plenty of options blend enjoyment with educational value while ensuring safety. So, I compiled a quick guide to help you select safe tech and social media ideas for kids aged 6-16 this holiday season.

Educational tech toys are a great way to ease young kids into the tech world. For younger children, consider tech toys that emphasize learning through play. Here are some gifts that can provide both entertainment and education: Osmo Genius Starter Kit: This interactive learning game combines physical play with digital learning.

Kids can engage in activities that cover math, spelling, and creativity while using an iPad or Fire tablet. It’s an excellent way to develop critical skills in a fun, engaging manner.

LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox combines the beloved LEGO building blocks with coding. This kit allows children to build and program robots and models. It’s a perfect blend of creativity and STEM learning, encouraging problem-solving and engineering skills.

Scribblenaut is another fun game for elementary school-age kids (adults can join in the fun, too!). The game involves creativity, learning, and spelling.

If we talk tech, we must talk about Safe Social Media Alternatives. If your child is ready to explore social media, consider gift-

ing them access to safer platforms designed specifically for younger audiences: Kidzworld Membership is a moderated social network that is tailored for kids aged 9-16, allowing them to connect, chat, and share content in a safe environment. A membership can provide a fun way to interact with peers without the risks associated with mainstream platforms.

PopJam App Gift Card is another alternative. PopJam is a creative platform for kids aged 7-12, where they can share art and engage with others in a kid-friendly space. A gift card can provide them with the chance to enhance their experience on this platform.

It is also important that we explore safe phone alternatives.

If you are hesitant about giving your child a smartphone, consider some safer alternatives that facilitate communication without the risks associated with full-fledged devices: The Gabb Phone allows for calling and texting but does not have internet access or social media capabilities. It’s an excellent option for parents wanting to keep their children connected without exposing them to the distractions and dangers of smart devices.

A Relay Device is a screen-free communication device that works like a walkie-talkie. Kids can send voice messages to family members, making it a fun way to stay in touch without the complications of smartphones! Some of my best memories are of my brother and I running around with walkie-talkies we got for Christmas!

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Gifts that encourage STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning can be both enjoyable and educational.

Consider the Kano Computer Kit. This DIY computer kit allows kids to build their own computer and learn coding through fun projects. It’s suitable for ages six and up, making tech learning accessible and engaging.

For older kids and teens interested in coding, a Raspberry Pi offers endless possibilities for building and programming projects. This gift can spark a lifelong interest in technology and programming.

Last but not least, don’t forget parental control devices and apps. Gifts like Circle Home Plus allow parents to manage screen time, filter content, and monitor usage across all connected devices in the home.

Remember the router options are available.

Gryphon is a great one to consider.

The good news is that many of these routers, toys, and apps have sales between now and Christmas so that you can snag a good deal.

Remember, the goal is to create a balanced relationship with technology—one that fosters learning and connection while minimizing risks. Happy holiday shopping!

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

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

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

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Montgomery Annual Newtopia Christmas Party ad on page 47

Friday, December 13, 2024 @ Newtopia 3731 Malcolm Drive Montgomery, AL 36116 5 pm to 7 pm. Honoring winners of the Newtopia School Champion Awards. Attendees will experience an enjoyable evening, featuring visits from Santa and Mrs. Claus, as well as Christmasthemed Mickey and Minnie Mouse.

(334) 356.4518 www.newtopia.com

Christchurch presents Candlelit Service of Lessons and Carols

Come experience the splendor of Christmas in Main Sanctuary as the FBC choir and orchestra present, The Living Christmas Tree, a musical presentation that celebrates the birth of Jesus and the hope He brings.

(334) 834.6310 montgomeryfbc.org

Frazer Church presents Christmas Musical: Lessons and Carols ad on page 7

Sunday, December 8, 2024 @ Wesley Hall 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 4 p.m. A fusion of ancient and fresh worship traditions for the whole family.

(334) 272.8622

frazer.church

ad on page 3

Frazer Church presents Longest Night Service

(334) 387.0566

December 18, 2024 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 6 p.m. in the Chapel

Thursday, December 5 @ @ Christchurch Anglican 8800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, AL 36116 6:30 p.m. Champagne reception to follow. christchurchxp.net

Christchurch Christmas Eve Services ad on page 3

Tuesday, December 24 @ Christchurch Anglican 8800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, AL 36116 4 p.m. Service with Holy Eucharist and Pageant 7 p.m. Service with Holy Eucharist and Incense (334) 387.0566

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Christchurch Christmas Day Service ad on page 3

Wednesday, December 25 @ Christchurch Anglican 8800 Vaughn Rd. Montgomery, AL 36116 11 a.m. Service with Holy Eucharist (334) 387.0566

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First Baptist presents The Living Christmas Tree ad on page 33

Sunday, December 13, 2024 @ First Baptist Church 305 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 Friday at 7 PM; Saturday and Sunday at 4 PM River Region Parents I December 2024

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(334) 272.8622 frazer.church

Frazer Church “Candlelight Worship” ad on page 7

Monday and Tuesday, December 23 and 24, 2024 6000 Atlanta Hwy. Montgomery, AL 36117 December 23, 6 pm in the Worship Center December 24, 4 pm in the Worship Center (334) 272.8622 frazer.church

River Region Ballet “The Nutcracker” ad on page 13

Saturday, December 6, 7, 8 @ Davis Theatre 7981 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 December 6 & 7 at 7 p.m. and December 7 & 8 at 2 p.m. “The Nutcracker,” choreographed by Stevan Grebel and set to music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, will thrill the audience with the prodigious dancing of the Youth Ballet Company and students from the school. With spectacular backdrops, scenery and a growing Christmas tree, this ballet is truly magical!

(334) 356.5460 alabamariverregionballet.com

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25th Annual Lights of Love

Thursday, December 5, 2024 @ Jackson Hospital 1725 Pine St Montgomery, AL 36106 Remember a loved one or honor someone special during the holiday season by purchasing a light on the Jackson Hospital Lights of Love tree. For each contribution of $25, a symbolic light will be placed on the tree. A generous gift of $100 or more will purchase a miniature Moravian star. for a donation of $500 or more, an honoree will be remembered as an angel.

(334) 293.6940 jackson.org

2024 Capital City Christmas Parade

Friday, December 13, 2024 @ Downtown Montgomery, AL 36104 6:15 p.m. The City of Montgomery would like to invite you to the Christmas Parade. Depart from Cramton Bowl and Parade downtown from Capitol Steps to the Court Street Fountain. A limited number of parade entries will be accepted.

(334) 625.2100

montgomeryal.gov

2024 Capital City Governor’s Tree Lighting

Friday, December 6, 2024 @ Capital 1142 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 5 p.m., Come enjoy the National Guard Band 30 minutes prior to tree lighting. - Governor’s Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony at the Capitol.

(334) 353.4948 montgomeryal.gov

Alabama Shakespeare presents, “A Christmas Carol”

Through December 29 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 ASF returns to a full production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol on the Festival Stage.

When miserly Ebenezer Scrooge receives an unwanted visit from the ghost of his former business partner on Christmas Eve, an overnight voyage of epic proportions begins. Journey with Scrooge as he learns from his ghosts (and Bob, Tiny Tim, and the Cratchits) a heartwarming lesson in forgiveness and the change we can make around us.

This play is a joyful Christmas tradition for the entire family!

(334) 271.5353 boxoffice@asf.net asf.net

Annual Holiday Light Festival The Montgomery Zoo

December 6-31 @ Montgomery Zoo 2301 Coliseum Blvd. Montgomery, AL 36110 6- 9 p.m. each night. Remember a loved one or

www.riverregionparents.com

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honor someone special during the holiday season by purchasing a light on the Jackson Hospital Lights of Love tree.

(334) 240.4900

montgomeryzoo.com

Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland December 10, 2024 @ Davis Theatre for Performing Arts Montgomery, AL 36104

7:30 pm Immerse yourself in a traditional Celtic landscape and let the magic of an Irish Christmas transport you to a world filled with excitement and wonder, where vibrant music and dance embody the heartbeat of the festive season. Featuring former World Irish dance champions and stars from Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, A Celtic Christmas delivers a holiday spectacular packed with Irish wit, traditional tunes and heartfelt ballads, alongside all your favorite carols. The show’s exciting mix of electrifying rhythms and extraordinary talent promises an evening brimming with Irish charm and enthralling entertainment, all in one powerhouse event. https://www.eventbrite.com

Christmas on Madison Holiday Open House

Saturday, December 7, 2024 Madison Avenue Montgomery, AL 8-4 p.m. Join us for a day of shopping, delicious foods, art, handmade goods, and loads of fun!

This event will span Madison Avenue from the 400 block to the 1200 block. Visit the following businesses: Montgomery Curb Market (8am-12), Armory Learning Arts Center, Southern Art & Makers Collective (10am -4), Mercantile on Madison by FDL (10a-4), Old Alabama Town, Rescued Relics — ALSO —Food Trucks and Pop-up Bakers southernartmakers.com

Cloverdale Playhouse presents “Shadowlands “

Monday, December 12 @ Cloverdale Playhouse 960 Cloverdale Road Montgomery, AL 36106 This West End and Broadway hit is the love story of C.S. Lewis - Oxford don and author of The Chronicles of Narnia and The Screwtape Letters - and American poet Joy Davidman. Jack Lewis is smug in his convictions about God and His plan for the world until Joy and her young son enter his life and the bewildered theoretician of love in the abstract finally confronts its direct presence.

(334) 262.1530

cloverdaleplayhouse.org

Eastdale Mall - Photos with Santa

Through December 24 @ Eastdale Mall 1000 Eastdale Mall Montgomery, AL 36117 Monday-Sunday, 11a.m. to 7 p.m. Christmas Eve from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Come have your photo made with Santa on the big green sleigh! Packages and Digital Files are available to purchase!

(334) 277.7380

eastdale-mall.com

Eastern Hills Baptist “Celebrate Christmas” The Light Has Come

Sunday, December 8, 2024 3604 Pleasant Rige Road Montgomery, AL 36109 3 p.m. Program features our Children & Youth Choirs, Adult Choir & Guest Orchestra. FREE Admission - Childcare for birth through 5 year olds.

(334) 272.0604 ext. 214 easternhills.church

Eastern Hills Baptist presents River Region Brass Band Christmas Concert

Sunday, December 15, 2024 3604 Pleasant Rige Road Montgomery, AL 36109 3 p.m. FREE Admission.

(334) 272.0604 ext. 214 easternhills.church

Eastern Hills Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Tuesday, December 24, 2024 3604 Pleasant Rige Road Montgomery, AL 36109 5 p.m. All ages will attend this service which includes a special story time for children.

(334) 272.0604 ext. 214 easternhills.church

First United Methodist Church Announces Gift Hope

Wednesday, December 4, 2024 2416 W. Cloverdale Park Montgomery, AL 36106 4:30-6:30 p.m. Gift Hope will offer people in the River Region an opportunity to rethink the traditional holiday gift by honoring friends and family with specific gift donations to local non-profits.

(334) 834.8990 fumcmontgomery.org/gifthope

Glenn Miller Holiday Concert featuring Airmen of Note

Thursday, December 12, 2024 @ Davis Theatre 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, AL 36104 This year’s performance is free to the public. Will be accepting canned food donations for the Montgomery Area Food Bank. This performance will be held at the Davis Theatre. Featuring The United States Air force Band, Airmen of Note, premier jazz ensemble, will perform holiday and Glenn Miller favorites. The Airmen of Note ensemble was created in 1950 to carry on the style and tradition of the Glenn Miller Army Air Forces Dance Band.

(334) 241.9567 troy.edu/davistheatre

Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Tour Open House

December 9 and 16 1142 South Perry Street Montgomery, AL 36104 2-3:30 and 5:30 -7:30 p.m. The 1907 Governor’s Mansion will be aglow with lights and filled with the spirit of the season.

(334) 353.4948 governor.alabama.gov

Holiday Dinner Cruise

December 5-7 and 12-14 @ Downtown Riverwalk Montgomery, AL 36106 Cruise the Alabama River with Santa on the Harriott II Riverboat, Downtown Riverwalk.

(334) 625.2100 funinmontgomery.com

Holiday Pop Up @ Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts

Friday, December 6 @ MMFA 1 Museum Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 6-8 p.m.; Featuring artist Garry Chapman, where visitors will have the chance to follow along with the artist while he makes unique paper snowflakes, listen to live music, and purchase seasonal art from a pop-up shop of local artisans, all while sipping on festive cider and cocktails.

(334) 625.4333 mmfa.org

Holiday Pops Concert

tale of Clara and her Nutcracker prince unfolds on stage. Join us for an afternoon filled with dazzling costumes, breathtaking choreography, and the beloved Tchaikovsky score that will transport you to a land of sugarplum fairies and dancing snowflakes.

(334) 409.0522

montgomeryballet.org

The Montgomery Chorale Messiah Sing Along

Tuesday, December 3, 2024 @ Church of the Ascension 315 Clanton Ave Montgomery, AL 36104 7 p.m. FREE Community Event and Reception to benefit the Montgomery Area Food Bank (334) 265.3737

montgomerychorale.org

Old Alabama Town Holiday at the Tavern

Saturday, December 7, 2024 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, AL 36104 10-4 p.m. Join Old Alabama Town in December to celebrate the holiday season. Our house museums will be authentically decorated for the holidays. Early December.

(334) 240.4500

oldalabamatown.com

Pilgrim Rest Missionary Baptist Church Annual Christmas Program, “The Greatest Gift” Sunday, December 22, 8:45 am 1550 East Washington St, Montgomery (334) 265.1807

Planetarium presents: Season of Light and The Alien Who Stole Christmas and Let It Snow

December 7, 14, 21, and 28 @ Planetarium 1010 Forrest Avenue Montgomery, AL 36106 Saturdays in November 2, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. The Alien Who Stole Christmas--Ride along with Santa as he is abducted by a flying saucer on Christmas Eve. The UFO takes Santa on a tour of the solar system and shows him some unearthly children who were left off his list.

Season of Light--This traditional Christmas offering is narrated by NPR’s Noah Adams. This show covers the various celebrations around the world which occur on or around the Winter Solstice. Extensive time devoted to the traditional Christmas story.

(334) 312.6085

Facebook under Gayle Planetarium

Photos with Santas Slate

Friday, December 20, 2024 @ 1 Court Square Visitor Center Montgomery, AL 36014 1 -3 p.m. Photos with Santa Slate at the Visitor Center includes one digital image delivered by email in a digital gallery. the digital gallery offers access to purchase additional images, prints, holiday cards, custom merch, and more!

(334) 544.0141 findoursanta.com

Saint James Church Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Thursday, December 19, 2024 @ MPAC 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 7:30 p.m. at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. Join the MSO for an evening of everyone’s seasonal favorites.

Tuesday, December 24, 2024 9045 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 11 a.m. or 5 p.m. in the Worship Center.

(334) 240.4004 montgomerychorale.org

(334) 277.3037 sjlife.com

The Montgomery Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”

Saint James Church Festive of Lessons and Carols

Monday, December 16, 2024 @ MPAC 201 Tallapoosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 2:30 p.m. One night only at the MPAC. LEAP (Linking Education Arts Performance) Step into a world of enchantment as the timeless

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Sunday, December 15, 2024 9045 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 11 a.m. in the Worship Center. 5th Annual Festival of Lessons and Carols. This service dates back to the 19th century and is steeped in scripture and

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

song. The nine lessons take us through God’s Holy Word from a recount of the fall of man, the promise of a Messiah, and the Incarnation. Each scripture lesson is followed by a carol or hymn that reflects the lesson’s message.

(334) 277.3037 sjlife.com

Santa Fest Holiday Market

December 7 @ Aldersgate UMC - Gym 6610 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36116 11 a.m. util 4 p.m. Photos with Santas Slate, Vendors, Cake walk, Balloon Artist, Food trucks, Inflatables, door prizes and so much more family fun. Join us for a festive Holiday Market full of magic and merriment. Book pre-sale tickets to meet and get a photo with Santa Slate.

(334) 544.0141 findoursanta.com

The Shoppes at EastChase Brunch with Santa

December 7 and 14 7274 Eastchase Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36117 Saturday, December 2nd and 16th from 9-10:30 AM!Brunch with Santa: Details to come soon.

(334) 279.6046

theshoppesateastchase.com

Vaughn Forest Church Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

December 24 @ Vaughn Forest Church 2019 Vaughn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Bring your family and friends and join us on Christmas Eve, Tuesday December 24, at 5:00 PM for a special family-friendly candlelight service! On that night, we will celebrate the birth of Christ together with some of your favorite and familiar Christmas songs, hear a brief message from Pastor Jim. (334) 279.5433

vaughnforest.com

Just for Kids Christmas at the ANC

December 7 @ Alabama Nature Center 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, AL 36054 9:30am-2:00pm | General admission applies and includes all activities! Members only from 2pm4pm. More details to come.Join us for our 17th annual Christmas at the Alabama Nature Center.

Enjoy hayrides, Christmas crafts, decorating cookies, a movie special and much more! Learn how to create your own nature ornament, get pictures with Santa, enjoy our Christmas movie special, and make sure to go on the hay ride! Christmas is always fun here at the ANC, we will have hot chocolate for sale and plenty of activities to keep you warm. Bring your camera and take a picture with jolly Ol’ Saint Nick!

(334) 285.4550 alabamawildlife.org

Christmas at the ANC

Saturday, December 7, 2024 @ Alabama Nature Center 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, AL 36054 Join us for our 16th annual Christmas at the Alabama Nature Center. Enjoy hayrides, Christmas crafts, decorating cookies, a movie special and much more! Learn how to create your own nature ornament, get pictures with Santa, enjoy our Christmas movie special, and make sure to go on the hay ride! Christmas is always fun here at the ANC, we will have hot chocolate for sale and plenty of activities to keep you warm. Bring your camera and take a picture with jolly Ol’ Saint Nick! Saturday, December 7th activities from 9:30am-2:00pm | General admission applies and includes all activities! Members only from 2pm-4pm. More details to come.

(334) 285.4550 alabamawildlife.org

River Region Parents I December 2024

YMCA Goodtimes Holiday Childcare

December-January 2325 Mill Ridge Drive Montgomery, AL 36117 Program will run everyday except Thanksgiving Day or the day after. 7:00 a.m. thru 6 p.m. Please call for more information.

town than with a 42-foot Christmas carousel. This festive symbol of nostalgia and joy is perfect for guests of all ages. With vibrant colors and 30 intricately designed animals, this carousel will be a spectacular addition to Christmas in Prattville! $3.00 per participant.

(334) 279.8666

(334) 595.0800 prattvilleal.gov

Prattville

City of Prattville Ice Skating Rink

Annual Christmas Concert

by Prattville Chorus Prattville Pops

Friday, December 13, 2024 @ Doster Center 424 South Northington Street Prattville, AL 36067 Enjoy a Christmas Concert featuring the Prattville Pops at 7 p.m. This annual concert will delight the entire family with Christmas songs and sing-alongs. The concert will be held at Doster Community Center on South Northington in Prattville.

(334) 595-0854 Facebook: Prattville Cultural Arts

Autauga Creek Christmas Tree Trail

December 5-31 @ Downtown Prattville Historic District 6 p.m. Come and enjoy the Christmas trees along the beautiful Autauga Creek.

(334) 361.4703 prattvilleal.gov

Christmas at East Memorial

Sunday, December 15 @ East Memorial Baptist 1779 Fairview Avenue Prattville, AL 36066 10:30 a.m. We will present “Only Jesus” an East Memorial Christmas Favorite.

(334) 365.7500

eastmemorial.org

Christmas in Prattville Carriage Rides

December 10, 15, 22 @ Downtown Prattville Enjoy the beautiful scenery of Historic Downtown Prattville at Christmastime with free carriage rides. There are three opportunities to take part in this fairytale experience. The rides are available as part of Main Street Christmas on December 10, 5:30 P.M. to 7:30 P.M. The carriage rides will continue to run for two consecutive Sundays, December 15 and 22, 6:00 P.M. to 8:00 P.M. Rides are provided on a first-come-first-served basis. So, come early to get your spot in line! prattvilleal.gov

City of Prattville’s Annual Christmas Parade

Friday, December 6, 2024 @ Autauga County Courthouse Prattville, AL 36067 The parade will start at 7pm at the Autauga County Courthouse at 4th and Court Streets. It will follow Main Street, turn right on Northington, then left on Doster Road to Stanley Jensen Stadium.

(334) 595.0854

prattvilleal.gov

City of Prattville’s Annual Christmas Tree Lighting Celebration

Thursday, December 5, 2024 @ Grassy area near the Fountain at Court and Third Streets 7 p.m. Heritage Park by the Fountain and Autauga Creek Dam. DJ starts at 6 p.m. Tree lighting, music, visits with Santa, and more. No charge for tree lighting event.

(334) 595.0854

prattvilleal.gov

City of Prattville Christmas Carousel

December 5-31 @ Autauga Creek under the lights of the Christmas Tree at Spillway Park Prattville, AL 36067 Thursday - Friday, 5-9 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, 1-9 p.m. What better way to add to our “Hallmark”

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December 5-31 @ Autauga Creek under the lights of the Christmas Tree at Spillway Park Prattville, AL 36067 5-9 p.m. We’re bringing back the “ice” skating rink to the list of fun holiday activities this year! Enjoy ice skating with your family and friends on the banks of the Autauga Creek under the lights of the Christmas Tree at Spillway Park. Cost is $5 per person for 30 minutes and includes skates.

(334) 595.0800 prattvilleal.gov

City of Prattville Main Street Christmas Tuesday, December 10, 2024 @ Downtown Prattville 5:30 – 6:45 pm. Skating, Carriage Rides, Shops open late, photo opportunities, prizes, beautiful lights and decorations).

(334) 595.0854

prattvilleal.gov

First Baptist Church Christmas Services

Tuesday, December 24, 2024 138 South Washington Street Prattville, AL 36067 Christmas Eve Service, Tuesday, December 24 at 3 and 5 p.m.

(334) 365.0606 fbcprattville.org

First Presbyterian Church

December 15 and 24 @ Christmas Services 220 South Chestnut Street Prattville, AL 36067 Lessons and Carols Service, December 15 at 10:30 a.m. and Christmas Eve Candlelight Communion Service at 5 p.m.

(334) 365.6387 firstpresbyteriachurchofprattville.com

Prattvilles Way Off Broadway presents “Yule Ya’ll”

Monday, December 7, 2024 @ Prattville Way Off Broadway Theatre Cultural Arts Building 203 West 4th Street Prattville, AL 36067 “Yule, Y’all” by Lydia C. Bushfield is a festive play that captures the essence of a Southern Christmas through humor and heartfelt moments.

The story is filled with comedic misunderstandings, quirky family dynamics, and the challenges of organizing the perfect Christmas event.

(334) 595.0854 artguild.prattvilleal.gov

The Prattville Ballet’s “The Polar Express Ballet”

Saturday, December 14, 2024 @ Jeff State Performing Arts Center 1850 Lay Dam Road Clanton, AL 35045 2 p.m., THE POLAR EXPRESS BALLET presented by CJs Dance Factory and the Prattville Ballet A young boy, skeptical of Santa, accepts an invitation to board a train to the North Pole. The magic begins and he learns the true spirit of Christmas!

The Polar Express Ballet offers holiday entertainment for the whole family. $12.00 admission.

(334) 467.8603

cjsdancefactory.com

Teen Night Holiday Workshop

12/14 @ Downtown Historic District 203 West 4th Street Prattville, AL 36067 The Prattauga Art Guild will host a free art workshop for ages 12-16 to create holiday-themed crafts! Space is limited, registration is required.

www.riverregionparents.com

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(334) 595-0850 prattvilleal.gov

Wetumpka First Methodist Church ad on page 40

December 8 @ 306 W. Tuskeena Street Christmas Musical at 10 a.m.

(334) 567.7865 www.wetumpkafirst.com/christmas

First Methodist Church ad on page 40

December 24 @ 306 W. Tuskeena Street Christmas Eve Worship and Communion at 5 pm (334) 567.7865 www.wetumpkafirst.com/christmas

City of Wetumpka Christmas on the Coosa

Saturday, December 14, 2024 8:30 a.m. - 6 p.m. Join us for one of Wetumpka’s most cherished traditions, Christmas on the Coosa! This year’s theme is ‘Jingle Bells and Gingerbread’ and will feature a day filled with Christmas magic, festive cheer, and community spirit. Don’t miss out on the holiday fun as we celebrate with joyous activities and unforgettable memories.

(334) 567.5147 cityofwetumpka.com

Downtown Dickens Christmas and Tree Lighting

Thursday, December 6, 2024 @ Downtown Wetumpka 5-8 p.m. Join the Wetumpka Chamber in collaboration with the City of Wetumpka, and Main Street Wetumpka for a two-night community event as we celebrate the annual Christmas tree lighting and enjoy a Victorian Christmas in historic downtown Wetumpka! This is the perfect time to walk around our whimsical historic business district and complete your holiday shopping.

(334) 567.4811 wetumpkachamber.com

Wetumpka Depot presents: “Holiday Dishing”

December 12, 13, 15 @ Wetumpka Depot 300 S Main Street Wetumpka, AL 36092 Look no further for a welcome break from holiday baking, decorating and shopping! Back by popular demand, River Region actors/ directors Adrian Bush and Kim Mason along with Depot Artistic Director Kristy Meanor collaborate on some serious Holiday Dish(ing).

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

Wetumpka Holiday Market

Saturday, December 7, 2024 @ Wetumpka Sports Complex 2350 Coosa River Pkwy Wetumpka, AL 36092 10am-4pm at The Wetumpka Sports Complex.

There will be Vendors and Food Trucks with a special appearance by The Wetumpka Grinch and Kringle Klaus.

Millbrook Christmas Music and Tree Lighting

Thursday, December 5, 2024 @ Millbrook Village Green Stage Millbrook, AL 36054 5-7 p.m. on the Village Green. City of Millbrook

Annual Christmas Tree Lighting...there will be caroling, food trucks, hot chocolate bar, synchronized Christmas Lights & Music show, and City Tree Lighting. Bring your lawn chairs & blankets.

SNOW IS PREDICTED! Activities will begin at 5pm and Tree Lighting Ceremony starts promptly at 6pm.

(334) 300.1064 cityofmillbrook.org

Millbrook Spirit of Christmas Festival and Parade, Winter Wonderland

Saturday, December 7, 2024 @ Sports Complex behind Smokehouse Bar-B-Q and will end at the intersection at City Hall Millbrook, AL 36054 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. Everyone is invited to join us for Millbrooks Spirit of Christmas Festival and Parade. Festival hours are 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. There will be a wide ariety of product and food vendors to take care of all your Holiday Shopping and fill your bellies. The Parade starts at 2 p.m. with tons of fun, floats and loads of candy and other goodies thrown along the routes.

(334) 300.1064 cityofmillbrook.org

Holiday Harps, A Christmas Carols Concert

Monday, December 16, 2024 @ Millbrook Presbyterian Church 3480 Main Street Millbrook, AL 36054 7 p.m. River Region Harp Ensemble will be presenting the 2nd Christmas Carols Concert. This will be a free event.

(423) 779.7674

Pike Road Local & Bloom Holiday Market

Sunday, December 1, 2024 569 Pike Road Pike Road, AL 36064 12-Noon. This is our favorite event of the year, our annual Christmas Market! After every Thanksgiving and Iron Bowl we have our annual Christmas market that following Sunday.

This is always a fun afternoon to get serious about your Christmas shopping with curated

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gifts from local artists and crafters! Come out and support local!

(334) 333.3262

Sweet Creek Farms presents “Merry Grinchmas”

Friday, December 6, 2024 @ Sweet Creek Farm Market 85 Meriwether Road Pike Road, AL 36064 6:30-8:30 p.m. Join us for a hayride with Santa, mischievous fun with the Grinch, dinner & so much more! Tickets are $18 each for all ages and only available for purchase in the market.

(334) 280.3276 swwetcreekfarmmarket.com

Pike Road Christmas Spectacular

December 10, 2024 @ Town Hall 9575 Pike Road Pike Road, AL 36064 5:30p.m. The event will feature holiday tunes & performances from Pike Road Dance Academy, the Pike Road Show Choir, and the Pike Road Theatre Company, a Christmas story read by Town of Pike Road Mayor Gordon Stone, hot chocolate served by volunteers from the Pike Road High School Leo Club, and a snowy treat!

The Christmas Spectacular will highlight the Season of Giving Holiday Collections Drive. Beginning November 25, we invite you to drop off donations of winter clothing, hygiene items, non-perishable food items, and packages of diapers at Town Hall.

Donations will go directly to the Central Alabama Veterans Health Care System, Food Pantry at Woodland Methodist Church, and Grace Episcopal Church Diaper Drive. From Nov. 25 - Dec. 17, donations can be dropped off at Town Hall (9575 Vaughn Rd) during regular business hours (Monday - Thursday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m., and Friday, 8 a.m. - 12 p.m.)

(334) 272.9883

Pikeroad.us

Pike Road Dance Academy: Holly Jolly Christmas Performance

Saturday, December 14, 2024 @ Saint James Church 9045 Vaugn Road Montgomery, AL 36117 Studio Show at 2 p.m. and Company Holiday Showcase at 5 p.m. A Christmas Performance

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

with studio. Christmas routines to ignite the Christmas spirit. Visit Santa between shows. Please visit our Facebook page for Ticketh information through Etix.

(334) 782.9200 pikeroaddance.com

Auburn/Opelika A Winter Gathering with Kathy Mattea: Good News and Other Favorite

Thursday, December 12, 2024 @ Gogue Performing Arts Center 910 S. College Street Auburn, AL 36830 7 p.m. Grammy Award winner Kathy Mattea brings her deep acoustic music roots to an original and traditional Christmas holiday music program. Led by her warm and soulful vocals and deft arrangements, Mattea’s stellar band, assembled for this tour with some of Nashville’s finest musicians, brings a fresh take on a wide range of songs of the season: from well-loved traditional tunes to selections from 1993’s Grammy winning Good News album and 2003’s acclaimed Joy for Christmas Day, to her breakthrough recording of the iconic “Mary, Did You Know?”.

(334) 844.8497 goguecenter.auburn.edu

Tallassee Christmas Tree Lighting

Friday, December 6, 2024 @ Veterans Park Tallassee, AL 6 p.m. at Veterans Park. Santa will arrive.

(334) 283.5151 tallasseechamber.com

Holiday Market

Friday, December 6, 2024 @ Veterans Park Tallassee, AL Vendors selling crafts and food.

(334) 283.5151 tallasseechamber.com

Holiday Parade

Saturday, December 7, 2024 Tallassee, AL 10 a.m. Begins at Tallassee Church of Christ and goes thru Central Blvd down to Barnette Blvd. and end at Tallassee High school. Holiday activities after parade in downtown Tallassee for children.

Trains ride, Santa and more.

(334) 283.5151 tallasseechamber.com

Eclectic Christmas Begins With Christ: An Eclectic Christmas

December 1-7, 2024 1733 Claud Road Eclectic, AL 36024 Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. Time slots are scheduled in 15 minute increments. If registering through the website, your reservation will be confirmed as soon as possible. Admission is free, and donations are accepted and appreciated to help with expenses.

(334) 580.7990 reservations@anelecticministry.org www.aneclecticministry.org

Eclectic’s First Christmas Village

Saturday, December 14, 2024 145 Main Street Eclectic, AL 36024 4-7 p.m. Enjoy a wonderful family evening with lots of fun before AND after the 5p.m. parade.

(334) 541.3581 townofelectic.com

River Region Parents I December 2024

Calera Christmas at the Station

December 7 and 14 @ The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum 1919 9th Street Calera, AL 35040 Christmas at the Station 2020 Logo Graphic ‘Tis the season to be jolly! Get your tickets and bring the whole family to celebrate the holiday together with a 30-minute daytime ride on the seasonally decorated Calera & Shelby train; visit Santa for a festive photo opportunity on the Museum grounds; board the narrow-gauge steam train for a quick trip down Candy Cane Lane on the Shelby & Southern Railroad; and enjoy all the activities on the museum grounds. It’s all included with your Christmas Experience tickets!

1(205) 757.8383 hodrrm.org

Birmingham and North Alabama Ballet presents George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker”

December 13-15 and 18-23 @ BJCC Concert Hall 1 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N Birmingham, AL 35203 Alabama Ballet is proud to present George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker® as one of only eight companies in the world licensed by The Balanchine Trust to perform this holiday masterpiece. Tchaikovsky’s beloved melodies transport the young and young at heart to a magical world where mischievous mice besiege a battalion of toy soldiers, and an onstage blizzard leads to an enchanted Land of Sweets.

(205) 322.4300 alabamaballet.org

McWane Science Center “Grinch” Jingle Bell Party

December 14 & 15 @ McWane Science Center 200 19th Street N Birmingham, AL 35203 Join us for hot chocolate, cookies, crafts, a dance party, and a photo opportunity with the Grinch.

Timed Entry beginning at 11:00am on Saturday and 12:00pm on Sunday and every hour until 2:00pm. The event ends at 3:00pm both days.

(205) 714.8300

mcwane.org

Out of State/Georgia “A Christmas Story the Musical”

Monday, December 5, 2024 @ Springer Theatre 103 Tenth Street Columbus, GA 31901 Based on the 1983 classic film, “A Christmas Story: The Musical” captures the sentimental spirit of the holiday season. Set in 1940s Indiana, the story revolves around young Ralphie’s quest for his dream Christmas gift: an official Red Ryder Carbine Action 200 Shot Range Model Air Rifle. With a blend of humor, warmth, and a touch of holiday magic, “A Christmas Story: The Musical” offers a festive and family-friendly experience that resonates with audiences of all ages.

(706) 327.3688 springeroperahouse.org

“Who’s Holiday”

Monday, December 12, 2024 @ Springer Theatre 103 Tenth Street Columbus, GA 31901 That sweet little Who is no longer small. She parties till dawn, cocktails and all. So pull up a seat, mark a place in your book. Come see your favorite Who and the twisted paths she took!

Join us this holiday season for a hysterical trip back to Whoville with Cindy Lou in this wildly funny and heartfelt ADULTS-ONLY show. This

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campy comedy is sure to put you in the holiday spirit as Cindy shares the highs and lows of the yuletide, in rhyme, of course.

(706) 327.3688 springeroperahouse.org

Annual Fantasy In Lights

Through January 4 @ Callaway Gardens 17800 US Hwy 27 Pine Mountain, GA 31822 Nestled amidst wooded landscape of Callaway Gardens, Fantasy In Lights is the Southeast’s most spectacular holiday light and sound show with more than eight million twinkling lights celebrating the holiday season.

Drive your car or ride the Jolly Trolley to experience scenes like Magical Field of Lights, March of the Toy Soldiers and Snowflake Valley. At Robin Lake Beach, enjoy ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ and ‘The Nativity’, light and sound shows enticing passers-by to stop, reflect and enjoy.

(844) 512.3826 callawaygardens.com

River Center for Performing Arts Presents: The Celtic Christmas

Wednesday, December 11, 2024 @ River Center for Performing Arts 900 Broadway Columbus, GA 31901 Direct from its Off-Broadway season, A Taste of Ireland - The Irish Music & Dance Sensation, presents its holiday spectacular, A Celtic Christmas.

Prepare to be enchanted with some of the world’s finest Irish dancers and musicians bringing the spirit of Christmas to life, in a show that will make you laugh, cry, and sing into the night.

(706) 256.3612 rivercenter.org

Lanier Islands Snow Island

Through January 25 @ Lake Lanier 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518 Take the crew snow tubing, get your skates on and practice your figure eights at the ice rink, hop on the carnival rides, make snow angels, warm up with s’ mores and hot cocoa, and shop in Santa’s Workshop. Don’t forget to stop in and let the little ones tell Jolly Ole St. Nick what they hope to find under the tree.

(470) 323.3440 lanierislands.com

Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular

Through January 19 @ Lake Lanier 7000 Lanier Islands Pkwy. Buford, GA 30518 Visit Margaritaville’s Lakeside Lights Spectacular for a night of nostalgic wintry fun. The Lakeside Lights Spectacular will take you on a magical walk through an amazing lighting extravaganza with festive seasonal music. Great for the whole family!

(470) 323.3440 lakelanierislands.com

Stone Mountain Christmas

Through January 5 @ Stone Mountain Park 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd. Stone Mountain, GA There is nothing like the Christmas season that magically transforms Stone Mountain Park into a land of enchantment. Within the glow of more than two million twinkling lights, you can watch live entertainment, engage in fun attractions and reconnect with friends and family during this special time of year. Make a Stone Mountain Christmas a part of your holiday tradition. Events include Wonderland Walkway, Snow Angel Castle, Holly Jolly Cabaret, The Polar Express 4D Experience, Snow Angel Fireworks and Snowfall Celebration, Sleigh Ride, Simply Christmas, Christmas Parade, Visit with Santa Claus, storytelling and live shows, great food and holiday shopping!

(800) 401.2407 stonemountainpark.com rrp

www.riverregionparents.com

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Can The Kids Handle It?

Q. My husband and I began your plan a few months ago. We love the process of living on a budget, and how it has helped us gain control of our finances. Our kids are 14 and 13 now. Do you think it’s a good idea to include teenagers in budget meetings and financial discussions?

A. This is a great question! As long as you’re not in an extreme situation, like you’re looking at foreclosure or bankruptcy, or you’re on the opposite end of the spectrum sitting on a pile of wealth, I think it’s a wonderful idea. Teaching kids about money with a standard, regular, monthly budget is one thing. But as a parent, you don’t want to put your kids into situations they aren’t emotionally equipped to handle.

As long as mom and dad are having a discussion and making decisions—not fighting—it’s good for kids to hear the give and take where handling money is concerned.

Parents who never let their kids handle money, and never teach them proper money management techniques, run a high risk of turning financially irresponsible adults loose in the world. And that’s no good for anyone.

But walking through a typical, normal budget will show them how much money is coming in and how much things cost.

They’ll see on paper exactly how much groceries or the electric bill costs. Then, when it’s right there in front of their eyes, they’ll begin to realize why mom and dad always tell them not to waste food, and to turn off the lights when they leave a room!

Should I Buy a Vacation Home?

Q. How do you feel about someone buying a vacation home, then renting it out when they’re not there?

A. As long as you’re debt-free and buying with cash, I’m cool with it. A vacation home is a really nice “extra” as you start building wealth. It’s still basically a very large, very expensive toy. Still, it could become something of a money maker for you if you play your cards right.

But here’s another side to vacation home rentals that most folks don’t consider. You might make some money, but there will almost always be several weeks during a year when it sits there empty.

Chances are you won’t get rich renting it out, but if you’re talking about something that’s more of a plan to offset the annual costs of your toy, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Be ready to deal with lots of spills on the carpet and damage from your guests, along with general maintenance and repairs. There’s always something that needs attention when you own a property.

But if you can handle all that financially and emotionally, I think you’ll be fine.

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Meet the 2024 Families of the Year

The mission of the Braxton family is to “spread the word of love and joy to everyone who will listen and embrace the concept.” The Braxton Family consists of Reverend Dr. Dale Braxton, Sr., and his wife, Mrs. Mercedes Braxton.

The Braxtons have three adult children: Recennah Braxton, Millicent Braxton, and Dale Chester Braxton, Jr., who is married to Lillian Braxton. There are five Braxton grandchildren: Bailie, Braylen, Landon, Uriah, and Savanna. The Braxtons have a strong faith in God as seen in the 41 years of faithful service to the Snow Hill Christian Church. They taught their children the importance of always doing their best both academically and socially. Central to the Braxton beliefs is helping others. Reverend Dr. Braxton has traveled far and wide to assist those in need. Much of the community work that the Braxton Family has been involved with has been in Lowndes County. Reverend Dr. Braxton and his family have provided food to Lowndes residents through the Food Bank Ministry since 1990. They have also provided Thanksgiving meals to Lowndes County inmates since 1983. The Braxtons support the children in Lowndes County and surrounding areas with school supplies through the annual Back to School Rally. Assistance and support is regularly provided to parents and students as they navigate through the Mandated Alabama Literacy Act. The love of God, the willingness to give and serve, and the love for one another, truly make the Braxton Family a special family.

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For 36 years, the Family Guidance Center of Alabama has sponsored Families of the Year Awards, recognizing outstanding families nominated for exceptional family teamwork, individual growth, and family involvement. This year three families from Alabama‘s River Region were honored at a special ceremony at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts on November 10th. In addition to the Family Guidance Center and River Region Parents magazine, sponsors of the program include WSFA 12 News, Aronov, Synovus, the J K Lowder Family Foundation, and Minuteman Press. For more information about the awards selection or the Family Guidance Center, please call (334) 270-4100 or visit www.familyguidancecenter.org.

The Braxton Family

The Deramus Family

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Desmond and Paige Deramus have two children, Koi (2) and Sutton (1).

Desmond works as a 4th-grade math and science teacher at Halcyon Elementary School. Paige is an IT Specialist at Gunter AFB. Desmond and Paige describe their concept of family in one word, connected. This young couple has learned that working together and supporting one another on both the home front and in the working world allows the much-needed balance required for success. With busy schedules, Desmond and Paige share the responsibilities of caring for the children.

By creating a daily routine, confusion and stress are minimized. Each is ready to step in and help the other when needed. www.riverregionparents.com

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Through open communication and encouragement, Desmond and Paige achieve their individual goals, as well as their family goals. Desmond, a gifted basketball player and coach, works with young basketball enthusiasts in the community teaching them the fundamentals and techniques of basketball. He even started his own AAU basketball team, the Green Tide Stars. Always the innovator, Desmond has also had his own line of athletic clothing. Desmond’s passion for teaching and motivating young people has helped many young athletes achieve new levels of success on and off the court. Paige also has a passion for inspiring young people. She often volunteers her talents as a cheerleading coach to area youth. She is also the owner of Sutton Elite Cheer. Her love of working with young people motivates aspiring cheerleaders to new heights of achievement. Paige takes great delight in watching her students grow and succeed. The Deramus family has found that love, respect, encouragement, and the ability to work toward a common goal, are the mainstays of a successful family.

The Dicks Family

Life changed for the Dicks family on April 12th, 2024. On that date, mother and wife, Amy Dicks of Grady, Alabama,

was shot while sitting at a red light in Montgomery. With multiple shots being fired all around her, Amy was caught in the crossfire. One of the bullets entered her vehicle, striking her and severing her spinal cord. Fearing the worst, Amy called her husband and mother and told them she loved them. “I knew I wasn’t going to make it,” Amy has stated. Amy survived but remains paralyzed from the chest down. Through love, devotion, and a strong faith in the power and love of Jesus Christ, the Dicks family works together to overcome the aftermath of that tragic day. Amy’s husband Joe helps with doctor visits and provides constant loving support.

Ella Grace, daughter of Amy and Joe, is a high school senior who recognizes the special bond that the three family members have. “I don’t see a lot of families that are like ours. We’re loving and do a lot of stuff together.” Togetherness is of great importance to the Dicks family. The loving support of other family and community members makes the daily obligations achievable. With the many challenges that face the family, they have not let it overshadow the joyful family moments that are still present like Ella Grace’s forthcoming graduation and future at Jackson-

ville State University. The Dicks family is a testament to the strength that can be found in even the most difficult of times. rrp

Contributed by Dr. James Christensen, Assistant Executive Director/Director of Family Services, at Family Guidance Center of Alabama.

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Want to experience a more joyful holiday season this year that doesn’t leave you depleted, miserable and broke?

for getting together. And, don’t feel guilty about standing by your decisions.

“You have every right in the world to establish what you want your holiday tradition to be. You are not obligated to participate in somebody else’s version of the season,” Moussavi says.

Here are 10 ways to shift your perspective and take command of this “hap-happiest” time of the year!

Thou shall invite thy partner’s participation. If you feel overwhelmed and stressed because you’re

trying to manage the bulk of holiday prep on top of working and taking care of your family, ask your spouse for help. Discuss what you’d both like the season to look and feel like.

“Sometimes it’s not that men don’t want to be involved. It’s that they are never invited to be, and they don’t ask,” Moussavi says.

Maybe your husband can mail the packages for out of town family, purchase tickets to the holiday play your family wants to see, or take charge of a few of the gifts.

Thou shall quit worshipping perfection.

Nothing burns holes into the fantasy holiday like real life. Maybe the tree is a lopsided, the dog ate your seven-year-old’s gingerbread house, or you were so focused on creating the best holiday ever that you ended up too sick to enjoy it when the big day finally arrived.

“Decide to do things differently this year. Strive for the good and be satisfied with the good. Too often the focus is on the result, and we tend to lose focus on the beautiful process of getting to the result,” says therapist Julia Flynn, LCPC, CRADC.

Thou shall not allow others to steal thy happiness. Plan ahead for those individuals who love to

bait you into an upsetting conversation at annual gatherings.

Since you know how the person is likely to behave, rehearse how you will respond when they pounce.

“The only thing you can do is get better at making it clear what you will and won’t tolerate,” Moussavi says. “You have to shut it down. You standing up for yourself is normal, empowered adult behavior.”

Arm yourself with responses like: “I’m here to enjoy myself.

I don’t want to talk about that right now.” Or, “Let’s agree to disagree.”

Also, physically exit from the situation by saying: “I’m going to go refresh my drink.” Or, “I have to make a call.”

Thou shall not overcommit. Decide ahead of time

which activities won’t work this year. Instead of committing to five parties and multiple gift exchanges, choose a few that you’re enthusiastic about attending.

“Be firm, decisive and assertive, always coming from a place of love for everyone and keeping the focus on the origin of the holidays,” Flynn says, who specializes in helping women manage anxiety, depression and holiday overwhelm. “Graciously decline and send a nice card or note.”

Thou shall rediscover “the why.” Take time to

reevaluate your priorities. How do you want the season to feel?

What do you want your kids to remember most?

“Sometimes we need to take a step back and ask ourselves why this time of year is important to us because I think ‘the why’ gets lost. It just becomes an expectation of self and family—or whoever— to have it look a certain way,” says Maki Moussavi, a transformational coach, speaker and author of The High Achievers Guide: Transform your Success Mindset and Begin the Quest to Fulfillment. “Take a step back to assess, from an intangible, emotional perspective, why the holidays are important.”

Thou shall simplify. “The holiday can be manage-

able and simple if we allow it to be,” Flynn says. “What makes the holiday so difficult is our own thinking about it. We make it difficult for ourselves.”

Experiment with small changes that can relieve your stress.

Hire a caterer for your party. Forgo Christmas cards this year.

For the relative who has everything, send flowers or make a donation in their name to an organization that is important to them.

Thou shall not compete with thy neighbors. As Theodore Roosevelt once quipped: “Comparison

Thou shall rest. Self-care is essential all year long,

but especially during the extra busy holidays when you’re stress level is more likely to sky-rocket. Pare down your list to what reasonably makes sense for your health, time and emotional wellbeing. And practice restorative techniques that relax and re-energize you.

Simple ways to recharge include a warm bath, watching a favorite TV show, a walk outside, curling up with a juicy novel, a nap or a massage.

is the thief of joy.” Some people enjoy casting their home in a professionally-created holiday glow while others prefer to hang a festive wreath on their door and call it good. Do what brings you pleasure and makes sense for your budget.

Thou shall give from thy heart. Rather than

twisting yourself in knots seeking the perfect present for everyone on your list, take a more light-hearted approach to gift-giving. For example, give a t-shirt with a meaningful quote, a digital photo album commemorating a fun getaway, or an experience like tickets to the zoo or a concert. Volunteering your time is also a fulfilling way to give.

“If you are intentional, you can make the holidays about the ideas of love, caring for one another, understanding, enjoying quality time together and treating each other as the precious beings each of us are,” Flynn says. rrp

Thou shall honor thy family. Attempts to please others by saying yes to everyone else’s holiday gatherings without taking into account you and your family’s desires can cause undue anxiety, frustration and resentment.

“The holidays are about family time, appreciating one another and caring for each other. If the focus is switched to the less important gift exchanges and gatherings, all planned at the same time, you can’t enjoy the experience and the original meaning is lost,” Flynn says.

For those events that you’d like to attend, but can’t, firmly communicate to your extended family or friends that you value time spent with them and would like to discuss alternative ideas

Freelance writer Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two sons and a menagerie of pets. Her intention this holiday is to slow down and focus more on the magic of the season and less on lopsided Christmas trees.

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FamilyCalendar Now - December 15

Holiday Party River Boat Cruise Sip-n-Cycle Pedal Cruise, 355 Commerce Street Looking for the perfect way to celebrate this holiday season? Hop aboard a BYOB Sip-n-Cycle Party Cruise and make your holiday party unforgettable!

Private holiday boat cruise for up to 20 passengers.

Bring friends, family, co-workers, and your favorite drinks! (BYOB). Special Offer: Save $100 when you book a PRIVATE PARTY using promo code HOLIDAYPARTY. Whether it’s a festive get-together with friends or a work celebration, enjoy the holiday magic on the Alabama River. https://sipncyclepedalcruise.com/

Now - December 23

Cullman Christkindlmarkt Immerse yourself in a German winter wonderland at Cullman’s Christkindlmarkt. Every Thursday to Sunday, from November 21 to December 23, indulge in rich flavors of traditional German Christkindlmarkt Cuisine.

Experience ice skating, carousel rides, and cherished moments with Santa. Explore our market, savor seasonal delights and discover handcrafted treasures as we come together to celebrate the enchantment of the Cullman Christkindlmarkt. Thursday-Saturday, 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Sunday, Noon - 8 p.m. https://www.cullmanchristkindlmarkt.com/

Now - December 29

A Christmas Carol at ASF Alabama Shakespeare Festival ASF’s full production returns with miserly Ebenezer Scrooge’s overnight voyage of epic proportions begins. Journey with Scrooge as he learns from his ghosts (and Bob, Tiny Tim, and the Cratchits) a heartwarming lesson in forgiveness and the change we can make around us. https://tickets.asf.net/overview/14812.

December 5-22

Pike Road Theatre Company Presents Miracle on 34th Street Faulkner Theatre, 5346 Atlanta Highway A holiday classic from the writer of the musical theatre classic, The Music Man!, and based on the movie of the same name, Miracle on 34th Street features a book and score by none other than Meredith Willson. Filled with humor, spectacle and such beloved songs as “Pinecones and Hollyberries,” “It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas” and “My State, My Kansas,” this joyous, heartwarming musical is pure family entertainment. https://www.eventbrite.com

Friday, December 6

Vintage Country Christmas Concert featuring Rose Colored Glasses 7:00 PM Warehouse 231, 3500 Wetumpka Hwy Get ready for a heartwarming holiday experience like no other! Our Grand Ole Opry Style Christmas Show brings you a night of pure, vintage country music, featuring classic Christmas songs and timeless hits from some of the greatest legends in country music history.

Vintage country hits from Buck Owens, Loretta Lynn, Tammy and George, Patsy Cline and many more. https://www.warehouse231.com

December 6- 31

Montgomery’s Zoo Christmas Lights Festival 5:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Pkwy, Montgomery, AL 36110 Christmas Lights Festival, December 6-31, 5:30pm – 9pm. See the Mont-

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gomery Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland sparkling with thousands of lights. Take a leisurely stroll, a brisk train ride or see the lights atop the Zoofari Skylift Ride. Visit the Christmas Tree Village at the Mann Museum and have a picture taken with Santa thru Dec 23. Enjoy warming hot chocolate and holiday treats from the Overlook Cafe. https://www.montgomeryzoo.com

December 6-8

Montgomery Gem & Mineral Society Annual Show Garrett Coliseum Enjoy beautiful gem and mineral specimens and unique jewelry from over 30 vendors.

Kid friendly with exhibits and learning activities. Free parking, free door prizes, demonstrations, and child activities. https://experiencemontgomeryal.org River Region Ballet’s “The Nutcracker” Davis Theatre in Downtown Montgomery “The Nutcracker,” choreographed

by Stevan Grebel and set to music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, will thrill the audience with the prodigious dancing of the Youth Ballet Company and students from the school. With spectacular backdrops, scenery and a growing Christmas tree, this ballet is truly magical! https://www.etix.com/ticket/o/9023/alabamariverregionballet

Saturday, December 7

Biscuits with Santa 11:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Montgomery Biscuits Baseball, Montgomery Biscuits Baseball Join us and Alabama Kidney Foundation on Saturday, December 7th to kick off your Holiday Season! Free to attend. Pictures with Santa, hot biscuits and cocoa, craft station, Christmas movie on the videoboard, etc. https://experiencemontgomeryal.org Holidays at the Tavern (Purchase your tickets ($15) at the Lucas Tavern)

10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Old Alabama Town, 301 Columbus Street At The Tavern: Mary Wilson, author of 100 Things to Do in Montgomery, Alabama, Before You Die, is presenting her new book in the Lucas Tavern (11:00 AM—1:00 PM). Liquations are available throughout the day. Enjoy seasonal decorations and a crackling fire. Join us for the December Festivities. Decorations Tour of Ordeman: The origins of the Christmas tree, transitioning from Victorian to Biedermeier style period in decorations and interiors, Europe, Germany, and Charles Ordeman.

One-hour guided decorations tour ($15) Toys on Exhibit:In the church of Old Alabama Town is an antique Toy Exhibition on display for this occasion. Enjoy the self-guided tour through the decorated houses. https://www.landmarksfoundation.com/events-1

December 7, 14, and 21

Christmas with Santa Claus at the Planetarium 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM, W.A. Gayle Planetarium, 1010 Forest Avenue During each visit, families will have the special opportunity for a brief meet-and-greet with Santa Claus. Families are welcome to capture these moments using their own cell phones or cameras.

This event is free of charge; however, space is limited, and each child must have a ticket to participate.

Tickets will be available at the Planetarium Gift Shop counter on the day of each event, with a maximum of 40 tickets issued per Saturday. While at the Plan-

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etarium, enjoy the festive ambiance with Christmas music and captivating holiday visuals displayed on our dome. Make sure to visit the gift shop for holiday shopping and unique finds! https://experiencemontgomeryal.org

Sunday, December 8

Neal McCoy 8:00 PM The Montgomery Performing Arts Center Neal McCoy has released fifteen studio albums on various labels, and has released 34 singles to country radio.

In 1993, Neal McCoy broke through with the back-toback number 1 singles No Doubt About It and Wink from his platinum-certified album No Doubt About It.His commercial success continued into the late 1990s with two more platinum albums and a gold album, as well as six more Top Ten hits.A seventh Top Ten hit, the number 10 Billy’s Got His Beer Goggles On, came in 2005 from his selfreleased That’s Life. https://www.ticketmaster.com/

Tuesday, December 10

A Main Street Christmas 5:00 PM Historic downtown Prattville The City of Prattville is partnering with the Chamber of Commerce and the Downtown merchants for the 9th annual A Main Street Christmas on Tuesday, December 10th.

Shop local small business for the perfect Christmas gift and then enjoy horse drawn carriage rides, carolers, hot chocolate and cookies, children’s make and take art projects, dancers, music and more, plus a visit from Santa! The event is from 5:00-7:30 p.m. and is free and open to the public. https://prattvilleal.gov A Celtic Christmas by A Taste of Ireland 7:30 PM Davis Theatre for Performing Arts Immerse yourself in a traditional Celtic landscape and let the magic of an Irish Christmas transport you to a world filled with excitement and wonder, where vibrant music and dance embody the heartbeat of the festive season.

Featuring former World Irish dance champions and stars from Lord of the Dance and Riverdance, A Celtic Christmas delivers a holiday spectacular packed with Irish wit, traditional tunes and heartfelt ballads, alongside all your favorite carols. The show’s exciting mix of electrifying rhythms and extraordinary talent promises an evening brimming with Irish charm and enthralling entertainment, all in one powerhouse event. https://www.eventbrite.com

December 12-22

Shadowlands at Cloverdale Playhouse Cloverdale Playhouse This West End and Broadway hit is the love story of C.S. Lewis - Oxford don and author of The Chronicles of Narnia and The Screwtape Letters - and American poet Joy Davidman. Jack Lewis is smug in his convictions about God and His plan for the world until Joy and her young son enter his life, and the bewildered theoretician of love in the abstract finally confronts its direct presence. https://www.eventbrite.com

Friday, December 13

Capital City Christmas Parade 6:15 PM Dexter Avenue, Downtown Montgomery The Annual Capital City Christmas Parade will occur on Dexter Avenue at 6:15 pm. Parade Rules and guidelines are in place to ensure the safety of all participants and spectators and to create a fun and memorable evening for everyone celebrating the season. https://www.montgomeryal.gov/

www.riverregionparents.com

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Calendar December 13-15

Living Christmas Tree First Baptist Church Montgomery , 305 S. Perry Street Montgomery AL 36104 First Baptist Church Montgomery for the 43rd presentation of the Living Christmas Tree! The sights and sounds of Christmas come to life as you hear beautiful music from the choir and orchestra and see the thousands of lights on the decorated tree! The Living Christmas Tree at First Baptist Church is truly a Montgomery Christmas tradition. Friday, December 13 :: 7:00 PM. Saturday, December 14 & Sunday, December 15 :: 4:00 PM. https://montgomeryfbc.wufoo.com/forms/2024-livingchristmas-tree-tickets/

Saturday, December 14

Cousin Eddy’s 5k and Polar Plunge 9:00 AM Montgomery Whitewater Presented by Max Credit Union, Cousin Eddy’s 5K starts at 9 am, followed by the Grinch Chaser, our Kid’s 1-Mile Fun Run at 10 am. After, cool off with a dip in the bottom pond for our second annual Polar Plunge at 10:45 am. Guaranteed more excitement than a one-year Jelly of the Month Club membership! Runners will receive overall and 5-year age group awards for the top finishers. The Polar Plunge is included with all 5K and Grinch Chaser signups. If you would like to participate in the Polar Plunge only, that is fine too! All participants will receive a commemorative event shirt if registered by December 5th. If you register after December 5th, a t-shirt is not guaranteed.Don’t forget a towel and a change of clothes! https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/Montgomery/ CousinEddys5KandPolarPlunge Harlem Globetrotters

2:00 PM Garrett Coliseum Attend Harlem Globetrotters (Basketball) at Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery, AL, United States Join us for Harlem Globetrotters (Basketball) at Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery, AL, United States. It’s going to be a fun and relaxed event with great music and good company. A perfect way to spend your evening. https://allevents.in/ Sip n’ Savor 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Historic Old Cloverdale Tour beautiful historic Old Cloverdale homes including The Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum while enjoying specially curated beverages and appetizers. All ticketed proceeds go to fighting pet homelessness with affordable spay/neuter. Purchase tickets here: https://www.zeffy.com/.../16eaaf54-e2f9-4911-ae9f…

Tickets also available at the link for those not able to attend but still want to support the mission! https://www.alabamaspayneuter.com/

Tuesday, December 17

Colter Wall and Friends 7:30 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Centre , 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, AL 36104 Following the release of his acclaimed Little Songs album and a sold-out promotional tour, Colter Wall found himself back home, calving and branding. Playing to tens of thousands at country music festival strongholds such as Montana’s Under the Big Sky, Texas’s Two Step Inn, and Dusty Boots in Colorado, Colter Wall and his band, The Scary Prairie Boys, have become a major headline act. He’s partnered with organizations like the National Western Stock Show, selling concert tickets with rodeo tickets, to help make those coveted tickets more accessible to working folks. https://mpaconline.org/colter-wall-and-friends/

Friday, December 20

Family Game Night 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Downtown Library Let’s make some holiday memories at the library! Join us for a fun-filled Family Game Night with cookie decorating, karaoke, and board games galore! Bring the whole family for a night of laughter, joy, and sweet treats. https://www.montgomeryal.gov Light the Path 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Moe’s Original Barbeque Enjoy an evening at Moe’s Original BBQ in Montgomery on December 20th dedicated to lighting the path and sparking hope! Drop in to grab your favorite BBQ, enjoy live music from Kyle Mont Cunningham Music, and seize the chance to win one of the exciting door prizes available. https://experiencemontgomeryal.org/event/light-thepath/1351/

December 23-24, 26-27,30-31 and January 2-3 Zoofari Winter Camp Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Pkwy, Montgomery, AL 36110 Campers will enjoy unique, educational, and fun daily winter-themed activities, make crafts, experience behind the scenes animal encounters, and perhaps make a new friend or two. Campers can join us for a day, maybe two, or the entire camp. The choice is yours. Allow your camper the opportunity to enjoy the holiday season with a WILDLIFE bang at the Montgomery Zoo! www.montgomeryzoo.com

Tuesday, December 31

New Year’s Eve Dinner and Party TASTE

(December 31st Seatings: 5:00 PM – $120; 8:00 PM – $140 $25 will get you into the party!!)

5:00 PM 5251 Hampstead High Street, Unit 100 Join us for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve dinner celebration! Indulge in a delectable multi-course meal and make memories as we countdown to midnight together. 8:00 PM seating include access to our New Year’s Eve party featuring live music, party favors, and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight!

Don’t want to do dinner, but still celebrate the arrival of 2025? Gather your friends and family for a night filled with great food, lively entertainment, and the perfect atmosphere to welcome the New Year. Space is limited, so be sure to secure your reservation early! https://www.ticketleap.events/tickets/tastemgm/nye

Recurring weekly on Tuesday through Saturday

Golden Happy Hour at Bar Attico 16:30 - 6:30 PM, Bar Attico, 36 Commerce Street Join Bar Attico every afternoon on the roof of ravellomgm for our “Golden Happy Hour” specials.?? You’ll be hard pressed to find a more enjoyable sunset. https://experiencemontgomeryal.org/event/goldenhappy-hour/1283/

Recurring weekly on Saturdays until December 28

Montgomery Whitewater | College Football Tailgate Saturday’s 11:00 AM - 8:00 PM, Eddy’s at Montgomery Whitewater Fall vibes are rolling into Montgomery Whitewater at Eddy’s Restaurant with our College Football Tailgate series brought to you by Alabama Power

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and Coca-Cola Bottling Company UNITED, Inc. Every Saturday during college football season, we’re firing up the grill, pouring out beer specials, and blasting college football on our new big screens starting at 11am. https://montgomerywhitewater.com/upcomingevents/college-football-tailgate/

Weekly on Sundays until February 9, 2025

Montgomery Whitewater | Sunday Brunch & DJ Sets 11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Eddy’s at Montgomery Whitewater Back by popular demand! Eddy’s Restaurant at Montgomery Whitewater will be serving Sunday Brunch and Specialty Cocktails each week starting at 11am. Plan to vibe with us on our patio with Live DJ Sets weekly until 3pm before our Get Down Concert Music starts. https://montgomerywhitewater.com/dining/

Wednesdays - Sundays thru February 16th

Montgomery Whitewater Outdoor Ice-Skating Experience Montgomery Whitewater Montgomery Whitewater will be snow much fun this winter with the addition of an outdoor skating rink! No plastic surfaces here—our ice rink is composed of 5,000 square feet of real ice.

Located on the concert lawn, you will surely make memories on our skating rink this winter. montgomerywhitewater.com/activities/ice-skating/

Every Thursday night

Tacky Sweater Trivia 7:00 PM Montgomery Whitewater Tacky Sweater Trivia is back at Montgomery Whitewater! Every Thursday night in December, our classic Trivia Night gets a festive glow-up with holiday-themed questions, dinner and drink specials, and prizes for the week’s tackiest sweaters.Grab your friends and join us for a jolly good time! https://montgomerywhitewater.com/upcomingevents/tacky-sweater-trivia/

Through January 4, 2025

Miracle at Hilltop Hilltop Public House Miracle at Hilltop features holiday cocktails, extravagant decorations and holiday events for everyone whose favorite holiday is Christmas. The pop-up is part of the Miracle brand, a globally recognized series of Christmas-themed cocktail bars known for their kitschy décor, inventive drinks and collectible glassware. Your favorite drinks from last year like the Christmapolitan and the Snowball Old-Fashioned will be back and there will be new specialty cocktails on this years’ menu as well! https://publichouse.hilltopmgm.com/

Starting in December (Friday and Saturday nights)

Campfire Music Series Montgomery Whitewater Join us Friday and Saturday nights for our Campfire Music Series. Enjoy live music while roasting s’mores around one of our many fire pits, skating on the outdoor ice rink, and taking in the holiday lights. With great food and festive drinks from Eddy’s, it’s the perfect way to spend a winter evening. https://montgomerywhitewater.com/upcomingevents/campfire-music-series/ Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

www.facebook.com/RiverRegionParents

KS: Oh, this is tough. I think my toughest challenges are frustration and feeling overwhelmed. I take lots of deep breaths. Sometimes, I mess up, and I believe in repairing it immediately. I think it’s vital that kids know it’s okay to make mistakes and how to admit when we are wrong. I am also so grateful for the ways that Sean lightens the load when he knows I have a full plate. That partnership is critical to our success.

RRP: Being married for 13 years, what’s the best way you and Sean have found to stay connected during this busy season of parenting?

Kimberly Sabel

KS: Sean and I honor bedtime for the girls to allow ourselves time with each other at night. We also try to make time for a date night once a month. It doesn’t have to cost a lot of money to spend quality time together. We also randomly meet for lunch since sometimes it’s easier to schedule, and we don’t have to find a babysitter.

RRP: How did you transition to being a stay-at-home mom?

RRP: What do you hope your children learn from you as they grow?

KS: I hope my children learn to have strong work ethics and to be good people. We are trying to impress upon them the importance of including people versus excluding people.

KS: I used to own and operate an aerial arts facility, and it became clear that it wasn’t financially feasible to continue. After approaching my landlord, she informed me that my neighbors wanted to sublet my space. It felt like such a blessing to get out of the lease. I was heartbroken to close, but I found out I was pregnant with Sadie Mae. She’s a rainbow baby.

Sean and I decided that with his recent promotion, I would focus on being a mom.

RRP: What’s the best mom advice you’ve ever received?

KS: To talk to myself and treat myself the way I talk to and treat other people. I never realized how mean I was to myself until hearing Sadie Mae repeat the things I said. I have since transitioned to really intentional speaking.

RRP: What does self-care mean to you, and what are your favorite things to do for self-care?

KS: Self-care for me is physical activity in all forms! I love yoga, hiking, and bike riding, and recently fell in love with running. I am gradually getting back into aerial acrobatics, which I’ve missed so much. I’m a bookworm and have an audiobook in my ear whenever possible. I also love going to the spa whenever funds and schedules allow.

RRP: What inspired you to join the Montgomery Area Zoological Society (MAZS)?

KS: Sean’s family has been a big part of the zoo for many years, his great-aunt being a major driving force. When the opportunity arose to have a more active role, I was honored to be a part of that legacy.

The past two years have been fulfilling stepping into the food and beverage chair role for Zoobilation, our largest fundraising event.

Rapid Fire Questions What is your favorite thing to do at your lake home?

We love taking hikes and going out on the kayaks.

What’s your favorite audiobook? From the Mixed Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler by E.L. Konigsburg

RRP: How has volunteering for Second Chance Ministry for Men enriched your life?

As a runner, what’s the furthest you’ve ever run?

My longest run thus far is five miles. I’m happiest at three miles.

KS: I cannot express with words how privileged I feel to have the opportunity to contribute to LifeHouse. These men are working hard to build a foundation for a new life. They are developing trades, building resumes, and learning about a relationship with Christ.

They are such an inspiration.

What’s the funniest phrase your children say? I farted.

What one chore would you delegate in your home? All of them!

RRP: How do you overcome motherhood challenges while parenting your two young children: Sadie Mae (5) and Kenzie (2)?

River Region Parents I December 2024

Kimberly Sabel has been married to Sean Sabel for 13 years and they have two children. The family attends Church of the Highlands and lives in Montgomery.

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www.riverregionparents.com

THE SKIN YOU’RE IN Dr. Porcia Love, MD, FAAD Jo Shuford-Guice, MSN, FNP-BC

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