Auburn-Opelika Parents March 2013 by KeepSharing

Prudential Preferred Real Estate is

Preferred Real Estate

in Real Estate Sales for the Third Consecutive Year

$109,772,372* Company 2 $73,285,020

Preferred Real Estate

Company 3 $70,630,599 Company 4 $55,625,373

Company 5 $29,664,247

*Sales Volume Data is from Lee County MLS Listing and Selling Transaction Report, 1/1/12-12/31/12, from reported transactions of $92,750,832 plus in-house transactions for Prudential Preferred Real Estate.

Thanks to every customer and client throughout 2012, Prudential Preferred Real Estate had $36,487,352 MORE in sales volume than the next closest real estate company in Lee County – that’s over 49% MORE than the next closest volume competitor. Why? Because Prudential Preferred agents are focused on YOU. Find out more by contacting a full-time professional REALTOR at Prudential Preferred Real Estate in Auburn.

More Agents. More Experience. More Connections. 334.826.1010

PrudentialPreferredAuburn.com

©2013 BRER Affiliates Inc. An independantly owned and operated broker member of BRER Affiliates Inc. Prudential, the Prudential Logo, and the Rock Symbol are service marks of Prudential Financial, Inc, and it’s related entities, registered in many jurisdictions worldwide. Used under license. Equal Housing Opportunity.

Contents March 2013 Volume 4 Number 1

Features 34 Camp Provides More Than Fun For Kids Summer camp not only offers a good time for your child and a break for you, it teaches kids life skills, boosts self confidence and much more!

36 2013 Summer Camp Guide From week and month long residential camps to day camps covering a variety of interests, our listing has the details you need for planning your child’s summer.

50 Exploring Alabama Through Family Camping Whether you choose a tent, pop-up camper or RV, Alabama boasts great state parks offering adventure, history, and relaxation for your family.

Columns 2 From One Parent to Another Kendra Sumner

4 Living With Children John Rosemond, Ph.D.

On The Cover

10 Kids Health Ellen Royal, M.D.

Departments 6 Bits and Pieces

Get This! Paige Gardner Smith

12 School Bits

30 Dave Says Dave Ramsey

52 Family Calendar

32 The FlyLady

60 Parent Previews

Marla Cilley

48 A Page in a Book Paige Gardner Smith

59 Parenting on the Plains Polly Dunn, Ph.D.

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Kayla is in 4th grade at Ogletree Elementary and is the daughter of Paul and Scarlett Brockwell. She loves to dance, ride horseback, play softball and hang with big brother, Austin. Thanks to Spicer’s Music for letting us ‘rock out’ with you!

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Auburn-Opelika Parents Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher Kendra Sumner kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@auburnopelikaparents.com

Associate Editor Kelly Watson

Director of Sales Justin Sumner justin@auburnopelikaparents.com or (334) 209-0552

Contributing Writers Marla Cilley Polly Dunn, Ph.D. Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Alison Rouse Ellen Royal, M.D. Paige Gardner Smith Jan Udlock

Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

President Jason Watson jason@auburnopelikaparents.com

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 1204 Owens Road Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2013 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Auburn-Opelika 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.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

From One Parent to Another... The groundhog might be right this time! He could have stayed in his hole and even I could have predicted it. With the winter having been one of the mildest I can recall, there have been days where it already seems as if spring has sprung. Even some of the trees have bloomed ahead of time and there are small sprouts pushing up from the ground, just waiting to burst into color. Hearing the jubilant sounds of neighborhood kids playing in the sun prompted me to dig out the shorts and t-shirts so we could get a head start on spring, too! This past Saturday, while the kids enjoyed a bicycle ride, the warm breezes and sun’s rays were relaxing, but also, brought an overwhelming realization that there are not too many more days left in this school year! Before we blink, spring break will have come and gone, class lectures will end, and good-byes until the fall will be said. Exciting as that may be for our children, it can be anxiety provoking for parents. Of course, I am ready for more hours of the day with my kiddos, but along with that comes their need for continued academic engagement, thirst for adventure, and an itching to spread those social butterfly wings. And who are they going to turn to with those dreaded-by-any-busy-parent words that “I am bored!” and “What can we do today?” Well, I am going to be like the groundhog and predict the ‘summer boredom syndrome’ will come early this year, too! As my kids get older, their need for social and educational interactions increases. They want to hang out with friends more often than not, explore new technology, discover new interests and visit new places. Let’s be the planned-and-ready-for spring and summer parents! On my list this year is a spring break full of exploring in our own backyard. Not only will we meet up with friends for play dates, but day trips close to home are in store. How about an AU baseball game, a Saturday kids’ art class at Jule Collins Smith Museum or a fishing trip to Lake Martin? For you outdoor parents, pack up the camping gear, s’mores, and flashlights for a weekend under the stars? In the article, Exploring Alabama Through Family Camping, the author has some great advice for getting the family close to nature while exploring close to home. With a super spring break they will brag about behind you, keep the momentum going with a splendid summer for the scrapbooks! Along with family vacations and just good-old-fashioned tree climbing, sign them up for a camp full of learning and adventure. Camp Provides More Than Fun for Kids, by Jan Udlock, reminds us that choosing the right camp, whether an overnight or day camp, can foster continued growth and fill social needs. Do you have an artistic genius in the making? How about giving the AU Outreach project design camp or Parks and Rec’s ceramic and drawing camps a try? Want something unique? Camp Alpaca, where meeting and taking care of one, might be what you have in mind! Your kids need a week away? Look through the 2013 Summer Camps Guide and you will find the perfect fit that includes great camp mentors, exciting activities and new friends to be made. While lining the fun up for my kids, it is hard for me not to think about those kids who wish to attend a camp, but just don’t have the means. If you are interested in sponsoring a camp for a local child, Valley Rescue Mission’s Camp Joy needs your help. Send a child to camp and you both will experience joy! Groundhog, take notice! Spring did not sneak up on me! I am feeling more prepared and have a plan for those first complaints of ‘there’s nothing to do’! We will be hiking through The Forest Ecology Preserve, singing center stage at Summer Showoffs, and zip lining across Camp Cosby! Happy planning to all you happy campers!

Kendra

Kendra Sumner, Publisher

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Living With Children

By John Rosemond

The Difference Between Bullying & Childhood Mischief? The principal of a middle school recently confided in me that “this bullying thing has gotten completely out of hand.” He wasn’t referring to bullying itself, although that’s certainly out of hand. Instead, he referred to the fact that many parents have become overly sensitized to the possibility that their kids might, at any moment, become bullied and overreact, therefore, to any indication that they have been. “You wouldn’t believe what parents think is bullying,” he said, and went on to describe some examples. One involved a mother who complained that a boy had poured a small amount of dry snack mix down the back of her son’s shirt. The mother was incensed and wanted the perpetrator subjected to waterboarding, or something along those lines. Said principal then went on to describe other instances of “bullying” that were not bullying at all, but simply pranks. It might be helpful if everyone were able to agree on a rational definition of exactly what separates actual bullying from just normal childhood mischief. That lack

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

of consensus may be, in fact, a major share of the problem. For example, the definition at StopBullying.gov proposes that bullying is “unwanted, aggressive behavior among school-age children that involves a power imbalance.” That’s the very sort of nebulous definition that fuels a mother’s outrage at snack mix being poured down her son’s shirt. I prefer something along the lines of the definition found on Wikipedia: “repeated, aggressive behavior intended to hurt another person physically or mentally.” That captures it nicely, I think. Note that the aggressive behavior in question is not incidental, but repeated. And it is done with the malicious intent to do harm, both physically and mentally, to another person. I would only add that an additional purpose is to keep the victim in a state of near-constant fear. And by the way, I was the target of at least three bullies during my school years. I wish all they’d done was pour snack mix down my shirt on a daily basis. Over the past few years, a good number of school officials have told me that the problem of parental overreaction has become bigger than the problem of actual bullying. Occasional teasing doesn’t fit the definition proposed by Wikipedia and myself. Nor do one-time pranks like snack mix down the shirt, tripping, name-calling, or any other form of mischief that might cause embarrassment but is not done with the

deliberate intention of keeping another child in a near-constant state of fear. I was reminded of my conversation with the principal by an email recently received from the mother of a 21-month-old boy who, she claimed, had been bullied by a girl at his nursery school. The girl had pushed her son and grabbed a toy he had been playing with. Mom wanted me to recommend a book on bullies she could read her little one. First, that’s not bullying. That’s what toddlers occasionally do when they’re put in groups. Second, the mother’s overreaction, repeated over time, is likely to cause her son to become overly sensitive to any perceived slight, whether physical or verbal. Under the circumstances, he could quickly develop a victim mentality and do himself more mental harm than a bully would ever be capable of doing. Sometimes—just sometimes mind you—adults would do well to say something along these lines to a complaining child: “If that’s all you’ve got to complain about, then you live a very good life.” Unfortunately, a principal or teacher can’t say anything along those lines these days without getting into hot water. A child’s parents can say it, though and sometimes—just sometimes, mind you—they should. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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bits & pieces

2013 Cottontail's Village - March 1-3

Over 500 Booths! Advance Tickets Only $6! Are you looking for a one-of-a kind party dress for your little princess? Do you need a personalized Easter basket stuffed with candy, toys, and games? Or, are you shopping to update your home décor or garden accessories? Spring shopping is fun and simple, when new exhibitors join your favorite vendors from Christmas Village to display fresh new ideas and crafts all in the comfort of the Birmingham/ Jefferson Convention Complex. VIP Tickets for Christmas Village Festival 2013 will be available to purchase at the show office for 3 days only! www. christmasvillagefestival.com/cottontails.

Garden in the Park Free to the Public Garden in the Park, April 6, 8 a.m.-3 p.m., is an arts and craft style event hosted each year by Keep Opelika Beautiful. A variety of handmade and natural products are sold. The Rocky Brook Rocket runs during the event. Delicious food is for sale and the stage is alive with entertainment. All the fun happens at the Opelika Municipal Park! For more information about sponsoring the event, participating in entertainment or being a vendor, contact Tipi Miller at (334) 749-4970 or kob@opelika.com. www.keepopelikabeautiful.com.

"Seussical!" at RiverCenter in Columbus

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Thunder in the Valley Airshow!

“Oh, the thinks you can think” when Dr. Seuss’s best-loved stories collide and cavort. March 20-21 at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts in Columbus. 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 7 p.m. www. rivercenter.org.

March 16-17 at the Columbus, Ga. Airport. $10 advance tickets; $15 day of the event ticket; $8 advance military ticket; Scouts in Uniform (Adults and Kids) free; Children 6 and under free. www.thunderinthevalleyairshow.com.

Kids Camp & Summer Fun Fair 2013 Parents, visit vendors for options to keep your kids entertained and enriched… day & overnight camps; sports, art & cultural activities, plus area attractions. Free activities for kids, crafts, face painting, characters, photos, gifts, IMAX movie and scavenger hunt. Plus, play “Passport to Summer Fun” to win…a year of free fun from Chill Yogurt, Monkey Joe’s Hollywood Connection…and more! March 24, National Infantry Museum, Columbus. 1 - 4:30 p.m. Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

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Opelika’s Easter on the Square

Come to Downtown Opelika on Saturday, March 3 for unique & spectacular Egg-tivities for children second grade and under! 10 a.m.: Egg-tivities! Make parade decorations, hat, Bunny-ears, vest, tie or bonnet. Have picture made with the Easter Bunny; enjoy cotton candy, lemonade, cookies and storytellers on Courthouse Square. 10:45 a.m.: Easter Parade around Courthouse Square. Show off bonnets and other Easter crafts as you take this traditional stroll. An adult must accompany all parade participants. 11 a.m.: Giant Egg Hunt! Children 2nd grade and under are invited to join the fun and search for eggs at Courthouse Square. Sections are provided for Toddlers, PreSchool and School age children. Over 25,000 eggs to be gathered!

32nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt Sponsored by Wells Fargo Join Auburn Parks and Recreation as we celebrate spring at the 32nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by Wells Fargo, on Saturday, March 30 at 11 a.m. at Kiesel Park. This FREE community event is one of the largest egg hunts in Lee County, with more than 35,000 eggs hidden over a four-acre area. Four “hunting grounds” are available for the following age groups: 3 & under, 4 - 6, 7 - 9, & 10 - 12 years of age. After the hunt, join us for free soft drinks and balloons; musical entertainment; and a chance to have your picture taken with the Easter Bunny. The Kiwanis Club of Greater Auburn will be selling hamburgers and hotdogs, so bring a picnic blanket and plan to stay for lunch. In the event of rain, join us on Sunday, March 31 at 2 p.m. at Kiesel Park.

Great Flashlight Egg Hunt

Hunt for eggs in the dark, 7:30 p.m. on March 28 at Opelika’s Moore Stadium! Bring a flashlight and a basket. Look for special prizes and “rock eggs”. Event for ages 3rd-5th grade only. Sponsored by Opelika Parks and Rec. 705-5560.

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bits & pieces Run, Walk & Roll Benefit & Mended Hearts Health Fair 5K and 1 mile fun run, health fair with free screenings, inflatables and more. Providence Baptist Church, Opelika. March 2, 8 a.m. Cast Ministries is The Christian Amputee Support Team, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization. Our Mission is "pursuing abundant life for amputees through the love of Christ." www.castministries.org.

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink. Skate for $3 and free skate rental! $1 hotdogs and $1 drinks. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 5-7 p.m. www. columbusicerink.org.

March 10 Daylight Savings Time Begins

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Where Learning Begins From the moment you enter our million dollar, state-of-the-art facility, you realize that Milestones Learning Center is more than a daycare. Established in 2007, we are proud to offer our award-winning services to the children and families of the Auburn/Opelika area. As a private academically focused program that specializes in early childhood education, we cater to those families that want the best for their child. We offer year round educational programs for full and part-time childcare for children six weeks to Pre-Kindergarten. In addition we provide a full menu of enrichment classes onsite which saves our parents valuable time. Come by today and tour our facility and see the Milestones difference.

1811 E. Glenn Ave. â&#x20AC;˘ 334.887.4391 â&#x20AC;˘ www.milestoneslc.com Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

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199th Anniversary of the Battle of Horseshoe Bend

Horseshoe Bend National Military Park will host the 199th Anniversary of the Battle of the Horseshoe on Saturday, 23 March 2013. This annual event recreates frontier life in the year 1814 and emphasizes the importance of the battle in United States history through a variety of special demonstrations and interpretive programs. Activities will provide park visitors with a better understanding of the combatants and the reasons why the battle took place. Experience the life of the Creek and Cherokee Indians. Visit traditional hunting camps and watch demonstrations of cultural skills such as hide tanning, flint knapping and basket making. Participate in an authentic Creek stomp dance. Experience the life of Andrew Jackson's frontier army. Watch Tennessee militiamen and soldiers representing the 39th United States Infantry fire smoothbore cannon and flintlock muskets. Learn how soldiers lived on campaign. All demonstrations will be presented multiple times throughout the day and promise to be entertaining as well as educational. www.nps.gov/hobe.

2013 Home and Garden Show

The Home and Garden Show is back in Columbus – March 2 & 3 - at the Columbus Convention and Trade Center. Visit with local and regional vendors featuring products for the home, lawn and garden – all under one roof. Don’t miss this opportunity to talk with leading area professionals about buying, selling, remodeling or decorating your home and yard. Plus, we’ll have a great variety of flowers, plants and merchandise available. Bring the family and enjoy free activities for the kids, door prizes, seminars, demonstrations and the first 500 adults receive a free gift bag! Tickets are only $2 and available at the door. www.conventiontradecenter.com.

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Kids Heal h

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Summer Camps

Summer camps can be an enriching experience for your child. They can provide new adventures and extra education for kids while keeping them occupied and happy during summer break. Choosing the right camp generally involves knowing what experiences your child might already like as well as trying out a few new things. From a medical standpoint, you want to be sure to choose a safe environment and an age appropriate camp for your child. This article will cover these basics as well as how to deal with homesickness when away from home. Additionally, specialty summer camps for kids with medical problems will be discussed. Choosing a summer camp for a 10 year old is obviously different from choosing for a pre-school or early elementary child. Children age 4-7 years tend to enjoy day camps. An 8-10 year old child will enjoy day camps and may be ready for overnight camps. Your child’s experience with being separated from home and his personality can help determine if he is ready for this step. Children age 11-14 are usually ready for overnight camps. Sports camps are very popular for this age. Additionally, special interest camps can help an adolescent develop a talent such as music or drama. There are numerous camps to choose from, and fortunately, we have many good options in our area. I recommend starting your search by studying the Summer Camp Guide in this month’s issue of Auburn Opelika Parents. Also, you might try going to the websites for

Opelika or Auburn Parks and Recreation. There are all types of day camps available and prices are very reasonable. These camps are also well staffed and safe for the kids. Auburn University also offers an excellent number of day camps and overnight camps. Overnight or residential camps should have health care/nursing personnel, lifeguard supervision for all water activities, health ratings for kitchen/food areas, safety equipment for specific activities (helmets for horseback or biking, life vests for boating, etc.), CPR certification of counselors, and especially adequate numbers of counselors to supervise the children. Once you have chosen the camp you and your child prefer, it’s time to get ready to go. A check up with your pediatrician may be required for registration. Immunizations should be up to date as well as refills on any medications. When sending a medication with your child, be sure to label it clearly. The pharmacy label should be intact and easy to read. Written instructions from you for any over the counter medications are also a must. Assume that the nurse/health counselor dispensing medications will have many children to care for, so be as clear as possible about medication times and dosage. Be sure to send sunscreen and insect repellent with your child and instruct them on how to use it. Tell them if they get a tick bite or sunburn to let a grown-up know. The same rule applies for any illness that may occur. Kids can sometimes be hesitant to approach adults if they are

having a problem. Let them know it is okay to report to a counselor if they are sick or hurt. Lastly, if your child has a special medical condition, there are several camps suited for their needs. Easter Seals Camp ASCCA on Lake Martin (www.campascca.org) provides camping experiences for children with disabilities. Camp Rap-A-Hope in Mobile, AL (www.camprapahope.org) is a specialty camp for children who have or have ever had cancer. The American Cancer Society’s Camp Horizon in Nashville (www.cancer.org) is another camp for children with cancer and their siblings. Your medical specialist may also be able to guide you in choosing a camp for your child with special needs. Summer break is a great time to experience new things, meet new friends and further special interests and education. Summer camps can help provide these experiences. Dr. Ellen Royal attended the University of South Alabama College of Medicine for her medical degree and graduated in 1994. She returned to Alabama the summer of 1998 to join the pediatric practice of Dr. Richard M. Freeman. Dr. Royal is a member of the Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is board certified in Pediatrics. Dr. Royal is married to Dr. Kevin Royal who practices Internal Medicine in Opelika and they have three children.

www.AuburnPediatricAssociates.com Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

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Miss Lee County Preparing for Miss Alabama Outstanding Teen Pageant

Wrights Mill Road Students Prepare for Science Olympiad

Abby Watson was crowned Miss Lee County Outstanding Teen this fall at the Lee County Fair. Abby will be competing in the Miss Alabama Outstanding Teen Pageant the first weekend in March. Contestants are judged in several categories including talent. Abby is on the Senior Dance Team at Nix Studios and is a sophomore at Auburn High School.

Wrights Mill Road students are pictured preparing for Science Olympiad, held Feb. 9th at Auburn University. Many of the students stayed afterschool to prepare for this event. Pictured Map Reading are Creighton, Gabe, Garrison, and Brock.

Auburn Junior High Celebrates First Hey Day

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Several fun and educational activities were planned at Dean Road School to celebrate the 100th Day of School. Fifth graders dressed as 100 year olds as they made their way through the activities. Pictured are Braxton Longino and Harper McGowan as future senior citizens!

Wrights Mill Road Families Have Fun at PTO Night

Open House, PTO, and Pizza Night at Wrights Mill Road was a Huge success. Families came together for an Italian styled night and enjoyed pizza and fun activities. The Drake Drama team did a skit on the â&#x20AC;&#x153;7 Habits,â&#x20AC;? a program students are working on to learn good habits. Pictured, the Floyd family enjoys the photo booth set up at Wrights Mill Road PTO Monday Night. Kirkland was a former Wrights Mill Road student, and Cal is currently a second grader at WMR.

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Dean Road Celebrates 100 Days of School

Thank you, Aubie! We loved having you share AJHS's first Hey Day! ....and lunch with our incredible students!

AEEC Orange Pod Performance The Orange Pod Kindergarten students entertained teachers and parents during the February PTO Meeting. They sang songs geared toward this year's lessons they are learning about Italy. Two of the favorites among the students and real crowd pleasers... 'Pizza Love' and 'Viva Valentine'! 12

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Lee-Scott Math Teams Win 1st place at District Competition

Lee-Scott Academy's Middle and High School math teams won First Place at the AISA District VI Competition. John Cooper Lawton won the High Score from Lee-Scott. The students will be going to the AISA State Competition on March 1st. Middle School Students are William Vansant, Brice Hilyer, Emily Stone, Gracie Braswell, and Michael Bagley. High School students are Christian Allen, Tommy Britt, Nick Buskill, John Choi, and John Cooper Lawton.

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OCS Teachers of the Year The Opelika City Schools Board of Education honored the 2012-13 Teachers of the Year at the January meeting. The teachers were given an engraved silver platter and congratulated by Superintendent Mark Neighbors and the members of the board. Pictured front row (l-r): Tina Williams, West Forest Intermediate; Revel Gholston, Opelika High School; Beth Langcuster, Southview Primary; and Jennifer Monday, Jeter Primary. Pictured back row (l-r): Teresa Ponder, Northside Intermediate; Molly Clark, Carver Primary; Angela Mills, Opelika Middle School; and Virginia Conerly, Morris Avenue Intermediate. Molly Clark was named the Elementary Teacher of the Year for the system and Angela Mills was named the Secondary Teacher of the Year.

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Auburn MMA Teaches Southview Primary Students Martial Arts in After School Program Students at Southview Primary School were excited to have the opportunity to work with local martial arts instructors, Randall Phillips and Keith Johnson from Auburn MMA. They got a kick out of learning!

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Beulah Senior Signs Football Scholarship with Point University Congratulations to Beulah’s Austin Hodge for signing a football scholarship with Point University. Beulah High graduate and Point University, All-American punter, David Strickland was present at Beulah H.S. to represent Point University Athletic Department. Pictured are: Seated: Bryan Johnson (Austin’s father), Austin, Betty Hodge, Austin’s grandmother. Standing: Craig Hall, BHS Football Coach, David Strickland, Robby Hodge (Austin’s grandfather), Jeff Lamb (Austin’s Offensive Line Coach), Joey Biddle, BHS Principal and David Owen, BHS Assistant Principal.

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Opelika High School Senior Signs with Northwest Mississippi Community College

OHS Senior DeAndre Wilson signed a football scholarship with Northwest Mississippi Community College on February 6. Pictured (l-r): Deatrice Wilson, mother; DeAndre; and Vantrell Wilson, father. Second row pictured (l-r): Coach Buster Daniel, DeAnna Wilson, sister; Coach Brian Blackmon, Athletic Director and Dr. Farrell Seymore, OHS Principal.

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Opelika City Schools Announce Winners of 2012 Project Redirectory The Opelika City Schools are proud to announce the results of the 2012 Project Redirectory telephone book recycling campaign. The annual campaign began on November 14, 2012 and ended on December 15, 2012. A total of 6,516 books were collected. Morris Avenue Intermediate School collected the most books with a total of 3080. Northside Intermediate placed second with a total of 1223 books and Jeter primary placed third with a total of 779 books. Thanks to the generosity of Yellow Pages, each school that participated received a cash prize. Project Redirectory is sponsored each year by Yellow Pages, Keep Opelika Beautiful, City of Opelika Solid Waste Division and the Opelika City Schools. Pictured on the first row with the Morris Avenue students are Roderick Ricks (left) and Bobby Hebson (right) with Yellow Pages. Second row (l-r): Tipi Miller, Keep Opelika Beautiful (KOB) Director; Nino Mason, Morris Avenue Principal; Mike McKee, Northside Intermediate Principal; Cindy Mirarchi, Morris Avenue KOB Liaison; Lori Show, Northside KOB Liaison; Laura Lambert, Jeter Primary KOB Liaison; and Jeanie Miller, Jeter Primary Principal.

Where will your kids hang out this summer?

For boys and girls ages 7-15 Hendersonville, NC â&#x20AC;˘ 828-692-9136 â&#x20AC;˘ www.campkanuga.org Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

W Lee-Scott Show Choir Wins Big at Capitol City Classic Show Choir Competition

Lee-Scott Academy’s Show Choir won 2nd Place out of 9 groups at the Capitol City Classic Show Choir Competition at the Montgomery Performing Arts Center in January. The choir also got caption awards for the highest scores in Overall Effect and Visual Effect. This was the group’s second competition ever, so needless to say the awards were welcomed with excitement and gratitude. "Higher Glory" is comprised of 43 singer/dancers, male and female, grades 9-12. Higher Glory is a small mixed show choir from Auburn, and is in its second year of competition show choir. The group was created to provide exciting performance opportunities, but most importantly to share the good news of Jesus Christ. This year’s show was put together in an effort to celebrate the joy that comes through knowing Him. “Oh come, let us sing to the Lord; let us make a joyful noise to the rock of our salvation!” Psalm 95:1. This year's competition show features the songs I Will Lift My Eyes, The Presence of the Lord, What Love Is This, and Satisfy Me. Soloists include Ann Marie Leonard and Ryan Bowman.

Auburn High School Varsity Singers Awarded 1st Runner Up

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The Auburn High School Varsity Singers, a mixed group, competed in the Capital City Classic in the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. It won third place in its division and first runner up in the finals.

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Wacoochee Spelling Bee Winners Wacoochee Elementary students in grades 36 recently participated in the annual spelling bee. From L-R: third place winner Jillian Bradley from Mrs. Millraney’s 6th grade class, second place winner Nicolas Navarro from Mrs. Wilkins’ 4th grade class, and first place winner Nathan Johnson from Mrs. Erlandson’s 6th grade class. Congratulations not only to our winners but to all of the participants!

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Dean Road Fifth Graders Go to Mars

Fifth grade science classes at Dean Road Elementary School participated in the Discovery Education's I.AM.STEAM - Mars Journey. They took a virtual field trip to Mars and "tweeted" with a real astronaut, Leland Melvin. Students then accepted the challenge to build the next Mars rover! Students worked together in teams to build rovers that could withstand the harsh Martian climate while still performing delicate scientific research. The rovers won't leave for Mars until 2020, so the project asked the students to plan for and include technology that has not even been invented yet. Students are excited to see how many of their ideas become reality! Pictured are Will Sorrells and Braxton Longino working on their rover.

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4H Holds Organizational Meeting for Livestock Judging Team Area children and their parents attended the Lee County 4-H Livestock Judging Team’s organizational meeting on Jan. 17 at the Lee County Extension Office in Opelika. The children in attendance were interested in trying out for the team.

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7 Year Old Takes First Place in Hog Show and Sheep Show in Montgomery

Allie Ann Johndrow, a Lee County 4-H and Future Farmers of America member, won first place in the Alabama Future Farmers of America Hog Show in her age group and first place in the Future Farmers of America Sheep Show in her age group. The shows were Saturday, Jan. 19, in Montgomery. Smokey Spears, a Lee County Extension agent and 4-H judging team coach, called the 7-year-old “the showmanship queen.” Spears said it was the first year Allie has shown animals.

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Auburn Junior High School Jazz Singers Take First Place

On Jan. 25, the Auburn Junior High School Jazz Singers, under the direction of Teresa Rhyne with choreography designed by Jamal “JT” Trimble, won first place in the Capital City Classic in Montgomery. The group, composed of eighth and ninth grade students, was also awarded Best Show Design, Best Visuals in Choreography and Best Costuming. This is the group’s second year in a row to place first at the event. They will perform at the Southern Classic Competition at Enterprise High School on March 1.

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Auburn University Early Learning Center Holds Clothing and Shoe Drive The Early Learning Center is a nationally-accredited laboratory preschool on Auburn University’s campus. ELC hosted a Clothing and Shoe Drive Jan. 21-25 to help support Four Corners Ministries. FCM is in downtown Opelika and serves in South Sudan and Uganda through child sponsorship programs, short-term mission trips, leadership training and emergency relief and is in the process of building a children’s village, Abaana’s Hope. The preschoolers brought in gently-worn clothing and shoes. The items donated will be sold at the Four Corners Thrift Stores located in Roanoke, Sylacauga and Wadley. FCM will weigh the items donated, and ELC will receive 20 cents per pound. For information about Four Corners Ministries, go to www.fourcorners.org. Schools, churches and organizations who would like to get involved in a Clothing and Shoe Drive can email taylor@fourcorners.org. Pictured, from left to right, are ELC preschoolers Joshua Chang, Tré Ross, Irene Kim and Kinleigh Adams.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Beulah Receives $2500 for School Programs Beulah High School Principal Joey Biddle proudly accepts a two legislative checks totaling $2,500 for the benefit of students and programs at BHS. $1,000 of the donation is earmarked for academic needs, another $1,000 is earmarked for the BHS Athletic programs and the final $500 will go to the band program. Pictured above in the attachments are: Left to right, Beulah High School Administrative Assistant Casey Chambley, Alabama 38th District-State House Representative DuWayne Bridges, Beulah High School Principal Joey Biddle, Alabama 13th District-State Senator Gerald Dial, and Beulah High School Assistant Principal David Owen.

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Congrats to the Opelika City Schools’ Teachers of the Year

Eight teachers were selected as the 2012-13 Teachers of the Year for Opelika City Schools. Pictured on the front row, from left to right, are Tina Williams, Revel Gholston, Beth Langcuster and Jennifer Monday. On the back row, from left to right, are Teresa Ponder, Molly Clark, Angela Mills and Virginia Conerly.

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Local Educator Playing Leading Role in Creation of New Arts Education Standards

Betsy Logan, an Art teacher at Auburn Junior High School recently traveled to New York City to meet with other educators from around the country who are creating new national voluntary PreK-12 arts education standards. The teams in dance, media arts, music, theatre, and visual arts met in the offices of the College Board January 18-21, along with the leadership of the National Core Arts Standards (NCCAS), the collaborating nine national arts and education organizations that are guiding the project. Betsy Logan is a member of the NCCAS partnering organization, National Art Education Association. During the meeting, Betsy and her more than seventy colleagues, worked in discipline-specific groups and focused on writing performance standards that articulated what students should be able to know and do in the arts area at different grade levels. In the coming months, team members are expected to continue refining their work, including the shaping of cornerstone assessments to measure achievement in the performance standards. The 2013 National Core Arts Standards, a parallel to the widely endorsed Common Core Standards in Math and English, will be ready for public review this summer and a piloting phase that will include testing a relational data base and a user friendly website that will eventually house the standards. Betsy will meet again with her fellow educators when NCCAS reconvenes the teams in early fall to review the public comments on the drafts and the feedback from the pilot. The new standards are expected to be completed in web form and ready for state adoption in 2014. To view more details and all public documents related to the arts standards visit http://nccas.wikispaces.com/

Area Students Receive C.I.A. Awards

Sanford Middle School student Matthew Ferguson and Wrights Mill Road Elementary School student Gabe Forthofer were honored with Character In Action awards during a Jan. 9 ceremony at Lee County Family Court. The C.I.A. program recognizes Lee County youth under 18 years old who, by their actions, have made positive contributions to their school and communities. Ferguson and Forthofer were presented with their awards by Lee County Family Court Judge Mike Fellows.

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Auburn High School's Élan Named Grand Champion

Élan, Auburn High School’s girl choir, competed in the Capital City Classic on Jan. 26 in the Montgomery Performing Arts Center. Élan won best show design, best visual effect and Grand Champion of the women’s division.

AEEC Celebrates 100 Days of School OMS Student Wins Lee County Spelling Bee Congratulations to KeyShawn Shaw, an 8th grader at Opelika Middle School, for winning the Lee County Spelling Bee! Shaw will advance to the State Spelling Bee in Birmingham on March 9. Best of luck at the State Bee!

One way students in Mrs. Jackson's class celebrated the 100th Day of School was by drawing a portrait of how they think they will look when they turn 100 years old!

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Cary Woods Elementary Hosts Multicultural Open House

Cary Woods Elementary School celebrated their diverse student body with a multicultural fair and invited the public to visit as well. CWES has 15 different languages spoken within the school's student body. The fair included displays and information such as the country's language, food, traditions, money, holidays, cities/geography and much more. The following countries were represented: South Korea, China, the Philippines, Germany, Hungary, Peru, Honduras, Nicaragua, Mauritius and the U.S.

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Opelika High School Students Attend HOSA Conference

On February 7-8, six Opelika High School HOSA (Health Occupations Students of America) members attended the 2013 HOSA State Leadership Conference in Montgomery, Alabama. The students are Madison Norred, Ansley Sheridan, Jamarcus Purifoy, Kiera Stinson, Shambriah Evans, and Danielle Hamilton. This year's conference was titled HOSA: Build a Better You! During the two day conference, the students participated in general meetings and competitions. They took written test in many areas of health care such as medical terminology, human growth and development, HOSA, and general health care. The HOSA bowl team consisting of Jamarcus Purifoy, Ansley Sheridan, Madison Norred, and Danielle Hamilton placed 4th at the State Leadership Conference. Danielle Hamilton and Shambriah Evans received awards for the Barbara James Service Award. Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Lee-Scott Academy Student Wins Essay Contest

The Light Horse Harry Lee Chapter, DAR presented Lee-Scott Academy student Michael J. Bagley a certificate, recognition pin and cash award at its January luncheon meeting for his winning patriotic essay. Bagley is pictured with DAR member Sarah Strawn and his mother Melissa Bagley.

MMA Students Receive Belt Promotions Auburn MMA hosted on January 13th a Brazilian Jiu Jitsu seminar featuring Shawn Hammonds. Hammonds is a silver Medalist in the 2012 World BJJ Championships. During the seminar promotions were awarded to Keith Johnson and Andy Roberts to brown belts, Steven Martin and Hunter Lashley to purple belts, Bobby Cash and J.T. Burque to blue belts, Gage Hill to orange belt and Sydnee Norrell to yellow belt. Also promoted to orange belt - Ben Daughtry. Pictured Back left to right: JT Burque, Steven Martin, Hunter Lashley, Shawn Hammonds, Keith Johnson, Bobby Cash; Front left to right: Andy Roberts, Randall Phillips (instructor), Gage Hill, Sydnee Norrell.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

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Nancy Fang of Auburn High School Named 2nd Runner Up in Distinguished Young Women Scholarship Program

Distinguished Young Women of Alabama, formerly Alabama’s Junior Miss Scholarship Program, awarded over $38,000 in cash scholarships to high school girls from around the state on January 19 at Frazer United Methodist Church in Montgomery. Nancy Fang, a senior at Auburn High School, represented our area in the state program as the Distinguished Young Woman of Lee County. Along with 51 other college-bound, high school senior girls from all over Alabama, Fang spent the week prior to the program rehearsing, making public appearances and participating in personal development activities and community service projects while living with a host family in the Montgomery area. Fang competed with the other local representatives in the areas of scholastics, fitness, talent, self-expression and an off-stage interview by a panel of five judges. Fang won one of the scholastic preliminary awards as well as one of the interview preliminary awards. After competing in the finals with the other top 8 finalists, she was named 2nd runner up for a total of $3800 in scholarship money. Payton Edberg of Coffee County was named 1st runner up and Jean Elizabeth Miles of Houston County was named the Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama. In June, Miles will travel to Mobile, to compete with representatives from the other 49 states for the opportunity to become the Distinguished Young Woman of America for 2013 and for a share of more than $125,000 in cash scholarships. Founded in 1958 in Mobile, Alabama, America’s Junior Miss, now Distinguished Young Women, is the largest and oldest national scholarship program for high school girls. During its 55 years of operation, the program has provided life-changing experiences for more than 700,000 young women and more than $93 million in cash scholarships has been awarded at the local, state and national levels combined. Distinguished Young Women is a scholarship program that inspires high school girls to develop their full, individual potential through a fun, transformative experience that culminates in a celebratory showcase of their accomplishments. National sponsors include the City of Mobile, Mobile County, Encore Rehabilitation, Spanx Foundation, Mobile Gas: a Sempra Company, Wintzell’s Oyster House, Master Boat Builders, Inc., Alabama Power Foundation, and Regions Bank. The Distinguished Young Women of Lee County is now accepting applicants for this year’s program which will be held on July 20. All interested high school junior girls are encouraged to apply online at www.distinguishedyw.org. For more information about Distinguished Young Women of Lee County, please contact Wynne Wages at lee@distinguishedyw.org.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Local Cheer Team Named Grand Champion in Dixieland Classic The PSA Knights All-Stars competed in Birmingham on January 19, at WSA Dixieland Classic. They had a wonderful time and performed well. PSA Onyx Senior Level 4 Cheer Team finished 1st Place in their division as well as earning Grand Champion of the competition with the highest score of the day. PSA Jade Junior Level 3 Cheer Team placed 2nd in their division, PSA Emerald Youth Level 2 Cheer Team won 1st Place in their division along with PSA Pearl Mini Level 2 Cheer Team also wining 1st Place in their division. PSA Shining Knights Special Needs Cheer Team also competed and were awarded Medals and individual Trophies for their performance

Dean Road Elementary School Turns into Whoville

On December 17th and 18th Dean Road Elementary School was transformed into Dr. Seuss’s Whoville and the students played the part of the Whoville citizens. Boys and girls rotated through different Seuss centered activities such as physical education inspired Grinch Games, art inspired Grinch glyphs and a Whoville Singing Celebration in the music room, just to name a few. Pictured is fifth grader, Madison Horne, showing off her “Who inspired” hairstyle and wardrobe.

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Wrights Mill Road Students Awarded First and Second Place in Statewide Art Contest

WMR student Sharon Kang (4th grade, Mrs. Lumpkin's class) was awarded first place for her artwork in the National School Counseling Week Art & Essay Contest for the State of Alabama. 5th grader Anna Louise Wages (Mrs. Keith's homeroom) won second place. This statewide contest evaluated artwork from K-5th graders which creatively described how their school counselor has impacted their lives. Top 3 winners across the state will receive monetary prizes. This the first year of the contest with our state and is sponsored by the Alabama School Counseling Association. National School Counseling Week, which is intended to highlight the vital role of school counselors in helping students achieve school success and plan for a career, is always celebrated the first full week in February.

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AEEC Students Build Class RV This year, the purple pod friends of AEEC have been learning all about Our Big Backyard and Beyond. We have learned about life in our own backyards, and are now learning about our city and the community helpers who make our lives work. We built an RV in our pod; each class used the RV to “travel” and explore the world around us. Mrs. Wilson’s class used the RV to visit community helpers of Auburn; we visited: the police station, the fire department, the dentist, Town Creek Park, and the bank. We enjoyed seeing our research come to life!

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Keep the Kids Rolling!

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Families are busier than ever and it seems we stay on the road to school, afterschool activities, church and other events almost constantly. The kids are our passengers as we zip from one destination to another – kids who are (hopefully) patient with all of our comings and goings. There are a host of hot kids’ items rolling up, ideas that put them in the driver’s seat for a change. The following rolling toys let kids take the wheel and set a course of their own choosing!

by Paige Gardner Smith

Rock, Roll ‘n Ride Trike

Team UmiZoomi: Come and Get Us Counting UmiCar

(Fisher-Price)

Just like shopping for a real car, you look for the vehicle that’s going to grow with you and get the best mileage. The same applies to the Rock, Roll ‘n Ride Trike from Fisher-Price. This adjustable trike starts its journey as a rocking ride, with a wide base that locks on for stable rocking suited for young tots - until they are road-ready. Then, when junior is ready to hit the street, the rocker base easily swings around back becoming an extra-long (finally!) handle that allows parents to stroll and guide from behind. With a parent controlling the pace, the young driver can develop his pedaling and steering skills. As the driver grows, in confidence, size and motor control, the parent handle can be removed, and vehicular independence is gained. From tot to toddler to Team Indy, this trike gets the mileage you’re looking for in a new vehicle.

(Fisher-Price)

Nickelodeon’s popular Umizoomi has spawned a fantastic little remote control car that responds like the car in the show! The ‘Come and Get Us Counting UmiCar’ teaches numbers and counting as well as introducing shapes, patterns and comparison thinking to preschool age kids. With Milli and Geo characters along for the ride, it’s your child who’s really in the driver’s seat with a super-easy remote control that moves the car forward, backward, or spin – as well as controlling options for the car to sing and count (forwards and backwards). You can’t beat the educational mileage kids will get with the UmiCar, but who’s counting. Your kids are counting – that’s who!

Switch & Go Dinos

Pillow Racers

We expect a lot from our cars, and kids should expect the same from their toys. Sometimes you want a car or truck, and sometimes you want a dinosaur. Why not have both – in one transforming toy? VTech agrees, and offers up the Switch & Go Dinos series where colorful vehicles with lots of customizable sound and light functions easily adjust into an awesome dinosaur. LED screens let the child choose different eyes for the dinosaur, or in vehicle mode, choose various drivers. The vehicle mode offers auto sounds and effects, while the dino mode presents over 50 unique sounds and phrases. From car carrier to Brachiosaurus, from sports car to Triceratops – kids can hit the swtich and call the shots with this versatile vehicle series.

Little ones love their first rideon toy, so much sometimes that it’s hard to get them off it. Pillow Racers offer a lovable alternative to the straight-up hard plastic riding toy. The racers feature a soft washable pillow seat in a variety of themes from ladybug and unicorns to turtles and dragons. The overstuffed shaped pillow seat attaches with strong Velcro to a rolling base (360 degree wheels) with an easy grip handle. As a riding toy, it’s cute and comfortable and takes corners like a champ! And when ride time is over, the character pillow removes easily for cuddling and carrying along when rolling along isn’t an option. The Pillow Racers really do go everywhere… and should!

(Little Trikes)

(VTech)

Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Q. I’m divorced and have a teenager who will be driving soon. What would be the best way to set up insurance for the child?

put it in your name for now, especially if you’re putting money toward the purchase of a vehicle.

Q. My mother-in-law has a serious credit card problem. She can’t afford stuff, but she shops anyway, acquires more and more credit and thinks she’ll pay for it all later somehow. Her husband has bailed her out a few times, but he’s unwilling to do it anymore. My wife and I, and her sister, want to address this issue, but where do we start?

I suppose a break-up does change the dynamic somewhat, but with my kids I simply left the car in my name and paid the extra insurance cost for a little while. For me, still being in control of the car as a dad outweighed the additional money I was paying in premiums. Having a minor child running around in the world with his or her name on a car title is not a good plan. Then, when they turned 18, I put each of their cars into their names. This, of course, was dependent on them behaving and acting responsibly. They were legally liable at that age, too. I’m sure the insurance costs went up, but at that point the financial risk and liability factors were on them, not me. In this kind of situation, especially because there’s more of a potential for disagreements, I think I’d do it that way. Just

First of all, you need to stay out of the discussion. This is something for her daughters to handle, and her husband needs to be part of it, too. He’s closer to this and feels the effects more than anyone else in the family. They need to sit down with her in a closed setting, where there are no interruptions, no television and no one else. Start with the fact that they love her and care about her deeply. This part is really impor-

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

tant. But they also have to walk through what’s going on, and let her know they’re tired of watching her destroy herself and her marriage with this immature and irresponsible behavior. Everyone involved should understand going in that they’re likely to receive a volatile, angry reaction from this lady. Sometimes people get ticked off when they hear the truth, especially when it’s connected to their own misbehavior. It may even be a good idea for your wife, her sister and your father-in-law to get some advice from a family counselor beforehand. What we’re really talking about here is an intervention. If she were a drunk, you’d want to try and make her see how alcohol was hurting her and the relationships she has with her family. Basically, she has a credit card addiction, and it’s wreaking havoc on her marriage and their financial well-being. Show as much love and understanding as possible, but someone has to say something and draw a line in the sand. Otherwise, this behavior will eat everyone alive!

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Clutter Alienates by The FlyLady, Marla Cilley

Clutter hurts our marriages. It affects the way we feel about ourselves and makes us sluggish. When our homes are filled with clutter, we just want to flee. We do everything in our power to not have to look at it. Here are some things we do. We hide out in the bed so we don’t have to see it. We leave the house for the day and don’t come home until late. We volunteer for things to keep us out of the house. A busy person does not have time to clean and declutter. This gives you an excuse. When you walk in the door after a day of running around, facing the clutter stops you dead in your tracks. Since you don’t know where to start, you do nothing. Clutter sucks the energy right out of you. This is why I have urged you to shine your sink. Just seeing one small area that is clean and clutter free gives you the energy to do more. The same way that clutter tends to grow in our hotspots, clutter free areas are contagious, too.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

With just a small area clean, you will begin to clean and clear the areas surrounding your bright spot. Keep your counters clear as you cook. Don’t let things pile up. Clean up after each dish prepared. Fill your sink with fresh hot soapy water each time it gets dirty and cold. Put out clean dish towels and dish cloths. When you get an area clean, declare it a clutter free zone. Use your hot spot preventions twice daily to keep them clear of clutter. Our husbands and children are pushed away by this clutter. We allow it to alienate our family from us. Husbands hide in the bedroom, the family room in front of the TV, tinkering in the garage, or they don’t come home at all. As a result of husbands protecting themselves from the clutter, you feel abandoned. Lines of communication become broken because clutter can push people apart. Look at what happens with your children. With clutter everywhere, they have a problem sitting still. Yes, I sincerely believe that clutter affects our ability to focus. This is a downward spiral. This contributes to more clutter and chaos. Our children are seeing our lack of structure and discipline. They do not want to

mind us, when we tell them to clean their room. Why should they? Our room is not clean. You will find that when you set this clutter-free example, even just in one area, you will begin to see a change in your children. They will be more willing to help when they see you doing something. You are not a bad mom, a bad wife or a bad person! The only problem is that we have allowed the enemy CLUTTER to invade our territory. It is time to take back our homes and find the peace that we know is there. You will know this, too, when you clean one small area of the clutter and keep it clear. This victory will be yours and your whole family will celebrate. Set your timer for 15 minutes and practice our new habit for March. Just grab a trash bag and start tossing! It is time to kick that clutter right out of our lives! For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, check out her website and join her free mentoring group at www.FlyLady.net or her book, Sink Reflections, published by Random House and her New York Times best selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2012 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.

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Camp Provides More Than Fun For Kids

overnight camps are structured to provide tasks and games that can challenge your child and have specifically designed age-appropriate activities. They are set up to stretch your child’s physical and mental abilities within a secure atmosphere. “Building self confidence for most kids is the opportunity to have successes and take healthy risks in a safe and supportive environment,” says Riel Peerbooms, Executive Director of Trail Blazers.org. As a parent, you might not challenge your child to try something you think might be too hard or scary for her. Yet at camp, the environment is electrified with possibilities and opportunities. Your child can explore with teammates new activities and become more confident in herself.

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New Challenges

by Jan Udlock

When your child goes to camp, you know he’s going to meet new kids and have fun. Yet, the camp experience can provide much more than just a fun time. Camp can provide kids a wide variety of experiences that can expand their thinkAuburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

ing, broaden their friendships, strengthen their self esteem, and enhance their self reliance.

Build Confidence

Camp provides opportunities for kids to build their confidence. Day camps and 34

Your child will meet new kids that may be from a different economic or family background. Kids from different states will be cabin mates. This will broaden your kid’s view of the world. They will learn other kid’s pet peeves and family jokes. “This is what camp does best, create nurturing environments, with much personal attention, where kids can explore new external and internal worlds.” says Peerbooms. Your child will be exposed to new foods that she would have never touched at home. Yet if it’s at camp and she sees all the other campers munching on it, she’ll try it. Maybe when she comes home, she’ll try your newest dish without that scrunched up face. Camp also provides a variety of different challenges which can allow a child Advertising: 334-209-0552

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As a parent, you might not challenge your child to try something you think might be too hard or scary for her. Yet at camp, the environment is electrified with possibilities and opportunities.

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to investigate new areas of interest. Depending on the type of camp your child attends, he may try archery, canoeing, survival skills, clay creations, fitness, etc. and find that he loves it. Camp activities are also designed to allow kids to take risks in trying new activities and possibly failing at them the first time. Kids learn that they can keep trying at some event to get better at it and maybe even master it. With such a competitive outside world, kids can have their own goals and see their own progress while at camp. And if a child has been to camp before, they can come to an event or a game with gained confidence because they are a little more experienced than the other campers. They “know the ropes.”

Relationship Building

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Camp also can level the playing field when it comes to being “the geek or jock or shy child.” Campers may be seen as one of the gang rather than a label that they wear at home. Most activities are

traditionally not academic so your child may shine in different games. Kids that are good musically or spatially aware or creative will have more opportunities to do well with other campers. “Camp offers a largely judgment-free environment where, for the most part, everyone dresses the same, engages in the same activities and shares common goals and values,” says Stephen Wallace, Director of Counseling and Counselor Training at Cape Cod Sea Camps. Cabin members are a team and all members are required to be responsible to their team. This is a great opportunity if you have a child that doesn’t remember to pick up her dirty clothes every day, yet her cabin needs her to be tidy for a clean cabin award. Peer pressure can be

a positive influence. And positive habits start somewhere.

Mentoring

Camp counselors have amazing amounts of energy and are a force of fun for your child. They are excited for your kid to be at camp and will provide support for him. Kids look up to counselors because normally they are the cool people of camp. Counselors seem to have a knack for having fun and can be silly in appropriate ways. Yet, they mentor kids and have a blast while doing it. “Camp counselors help young people become self-confident by helping them to establish realistic goals for achievement and to feel accepted, successful, and influential,” says Wallace. Camp is an exciting experience for kids because it’s where they can try new things and be challenged in a safe environment. They’ll make great friends while stretching themselves a bit more.

Jan Udlock is a freelance writer and mom of five.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

2013 Summer Camps Auburn University Academic Camps Auburn University Summer Youth Programs 21st Century- Chris Groccia- 334.844.5781; groccc1@ auburn.edu; June 9-14- The camp focuses on providing students with information and skills that will allow them to work successfully in 21st CCLC programs. The week long residential camp is designed to: Train high school students as tutors for 21st CCLC after-school and summer programs, encourage careers in education, provide field experiences in life sciences: fisheries, horticulture, forestry, etc., provide enrichment activities incorporating nature into literature, art, music, etc., & provide positive experiences on a university campus. Architecture Camp-James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james.birdsong@auburn.edu - 2 Sessions: June 23-28 & July 7-12, Offered to prospective students who are interested in the field of architectural design. The program is an intensive, exciting, week-long workshop that begins with basic design concepts and ends with an architectural design project. The cost of the program is $635 and covers lodging, meals, instruction, and organized social activities. The camp is designed for rising 11th and 12th grade students. Art Studio Intensive - James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james.birdsong@auburn.edu; June 23-28. Rising 10th-12th grade. an in-depth look at how art is taught at Auburn, and give students individual attention as they participate in a series of exercises and projects. $670 per person and covers all instruction, housing, meals, and recreational activities. Building Construction Camp- James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james.birdsong@auburn.edu June 9-14, Students in the camp will initially learn how to choose the sustainable technologies and building techniques that best suit the homeowner’s goals and budget, as well as the site, design, and climate of the house, and

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

integrate these factors into a whole house system. The cost of the program is $635 and covers lodging, meals, instruction, and organized social activities. Creative Writing Studio- James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james.birdsong@auburn.edu July 14-18, Four-day, department of English program for rising 9th-12th graders. The program offers emerging writers an opportunity to develop their craft Cost is $505 per person and covers all instruction, housing, meals, and recreational activities. Design Camp- James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james. birdsong@auburn.edu; 2 Sessions: June 9-14 & July 7-11: A unique program for creative young men and women who are interested in a professional career in design. The program is an intensive and exciting week-long workshop that begins with basic design fundamentals and progresses to more advanced design concepts. The camp is designed for High School Students. The cost of the program is $675 and covers lodging, meals, instruction, and organized social activities. Digital Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) Camp- James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james.birdsong@auburn.edu; June 14-19 (day camp only); For rising 9th through 12th grade students interested in the field of digital forensics and information technology. Participants will gain valuable experience investigating computer crimes and processing digital evidence, using the same tools and techniques used by law enforcement agencies. Engineering TIGERS Camp- James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james.birdsong@auburn.edu Junior camp: June 23-28, (8th-9th); $595.00; Senior camp: July 14-19, (10th-11th); $625.00; Engineering Women: July 7-12. $595. Teams and Individuals Guided by Engineering Resources (TIGERs) Camps are resident summer camps designed to expose students in grades 8-11 to the world of engineering. The registration fee includes a $25.00 non-refundable registration charge, campus housing, all meals, all materials and supplies, organized social activities, a camp t-shirt and 8x10 matted camp photo. A “Welcome Event” is scheduled on

Sunday from 6:00- 7:30 p.m. Don’t miss the fun! Fisheries Camp- James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james. birdsong@auburn.edu; June 23-28; ages 15-18; Intense fun and hands-on activities blended into a creative learning experience that provides the broadest possible exposure to natural resources careers with an emphasis on aquaculture, fisheries and aquatic ecology. Camp participation will be limited to 25 students so register early. Students will have the opportunity to make their own lures, fish for a trophy size bass in the AU fisheries research ponds, kayak the Coosa River, seine a fish pond and much more. Loachapoka Explore Auburn Days (LEAD) CampChris Groccia- 334.844.5781; groccc1@auburn.edu June 9-14; Students must be a Loachapoka high school student entering 10th, 11th, or 12th grade in Fall 2013. Camp includes physical and social activities such as sports, swimming, games, movies; Creative writing, team building, arts, field trips, computer, ropes course, study skills and more. Musical Theatre Camp- James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james.birdsong@auburn.edu July 14-19, Provides a residential summer camp opportunity for students interested in the exciting field of musical theatre, which incorporates music, dance, movement, and acting, and show choir. The camp will culminate with a musical theatre revue presented on the final day of the week. For students 9 - 12th grade. $625 covers lodging, meals, instruction, and organized social activities. Project Design Camp- James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james.birdsong@auburn.edu; July 14-19; Are you thinking about a future as a Fashion Designer, Interior Designer, Retail Buyer, Fashion Forecaster or Journalist? How about a career in Apparel or Interiors Product Development? Camp for rising 9th-12th grade students. $635 per person and covers all instruction, housing, meals, and recreational activities. Scholarships or financial assistance for this type of educational program are sometimes available through schools, arts associations, or civic organizations.

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Real Cents, Real Change - James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james.birdsong@auburn.edu June 16-21; empowers teens (ages 13-18) through education, leadership and philanthropy. Throughout REAL Cents – REAL Change Summer Camp, teen participants will learn the basic skills of financial management and how to maximize their philanthropic impact. $549 per person and covers all instruction, housing, meals, and recreational activities. Science Matters- Kristen Bond ; kdb0022@auburn.edu; (334) 844-5769; 6 Week Long Sessions: June 3, June 17, June 24, July 8, July 15, July 29; Science Matters is a summer enrichment program for elementary students in rising grades 1-6 offering youngsters a supercharged science experience. The program allows participants to explore the world of science through real experiments, technology and art projects, and hands-on, make-n’-take activities. During this action-packed program, kids can design and build, dabble in the art of chemistry, “become a flight specialist”, see amazing critters, and more! Regular Day option from 8am-3:30pm or the Extended Day option from 8am-5pm. Prices range from $170 –$235 per week/child. Multiple week discounts are available. Veterinarian Camp- James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james.birdsong@auburn.edu; 3 Sessions: Senior Camp (rising 9th-12th graders)- June 16-21; Junior Camp (rising 6th-8th graders): June2-7; Participants will learn about veterinary medicine first-hand in classrooms, laboratories, and outdoor facilities that include Auburn’s raptor, equine, dairy, beef, and swine units. Students will learn about public health, food animals, wildlife, anatomy, imaging, and first aid, as well as gain valuable mentoring about veterinarian careers. $680. World Affairs Youth Seminar- James Birdsong, 334.844.5817; james.birdsong@auburn.edu July 7-12, In cooperation with the Lee County Sunrise Rotary Club. Invites students who have completed at least one year of high school prior to the camp to participate in the 24th Annual World Affairs Youth Seminar. Tuition is $569 and covers all instruction, housing, meals, and recreational activities. Participants will experience college-level classes; reside in Auburn University residence halls; eat at campus dining facilities; and have 24/7 counselor supervision. Tuition sponsorship may be available by contacting your local Rotary Club. Auburn Summer Band Camps- 4 camps Enjoy learning from prominent instrumental music educators, making music with musicians around the nation, and working with the outstanding summer camp faculty. All Summer Marching Camp participants will take part in a combined Finale Concert at the end of the weekend, open to parents and the Auburn community. Residential and commuter camp options. (334) 844-4166; www. band.auburn.edu; High School Symphonic Band - June 12-15; tek0004@auburn.edu; Marching Auxilary, & Drum Major- June 18-21; etl0001@tigermail.auburn.edu; Middle School Symphonic Band- June 15-18; etl0001@ tigermail.auburn.edu; Leadership- June 9-12; etl0001@ tigermail.auburn.edu Camp ROC (Reaching Our Children)- Cheryl Seals, 334.844.6319; sealscd@auburn.edu; 6 week summer day camp-Provides instruction in the areas of reading and reading comprehension, math, science, financial and computer literacy for students from at-risk populations in grades 5 to 12. During the camp, students are exposed to personal productivity software (e.g. Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, Excel, etc.), introductory programming in HTML and web page design, and computing and keyboard fundamentals. They also learn how to use these tools in the workplace and in their personal lives. COSAM Summer Bridge Program- Bianca Evans, 844-4663; bed0005@auburn.edu; Intensive, 4 week residential program for talented and motivated minority students interested in science and math. June 2-27. E Tech Civil Air Patrol- July, 334-844-5457; freemja@ auburn.edu Jostens Yearbook Workshop—June, Greg Bernbrock, 770-565-4494; greg.bernbrock@jostens.com

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Joe C. Davis Outdoor Center

CAMP WIDJIWAGAN

CONFIDENCE FRIENDSHIP CHARACTER Overnight Camp Nashville, TN

campwidji.org 615-360-2267

Our Mission: A worldwide charitable fellowship united by a common loyalty to Jesus Christ for the purpose of helping people grow in spirit, mind and body.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Journalism Camp- 334- 844-4593; fairlln@auburn.edu P.E.E.P.S. (Poultry and Egg Experiences for Prospective Students)- Codi Plaster- 844-2881; plastcr@auburn.edu Camp is designed to educate students in the areas of agriculture, food, science and poultry. $25 camper fee (includes materials for activities, tours, lunch and snack, t-shirt, and certificate) Poultry Science Building, Auburn Campus. “Lil’ Chicks”- July 17; Rising 1st -2nd graders; “Pullets” July 19– Rising 3rd – 4th graders; “Roosters” – Rising 5th-7th graders. Strings and Chamber Music- Lisa Caravan, lrc0013@ auburn.edu; (334) 844-8192; open to musicians aged 10-18 who play violin, viola, cello, and string bass. The camp will offer a wide range of musical experiences including chamber music, orchestra, and jazz improvisation, as well as a movement awareness session taught by a certified Alexander Technique instructor. $349 and includes all instruction, housing, meals, recreational activities or commuter rate $299 and does not include lodging or breakfast. The Forest Ecology Preserve- Shauna Henry, preserve@auburn.edu; www. fp.auburn.edu/preserve “Our Wonderful Woods!” Activities will include tree, leaf and bark identification, wood working, goods from the woods, forestry practices, paper-making and a study of wildlife who make the woods their home. Camp Discovery: May 28-31- rising 3rd-4th grades. Young Naturalist: June 3-7- rising 1st-2nd grades; Young Naturalist II: June 17-21- rising 1st-2nd grades; Eco Rangers: June 10-14- rising 5th-6th grades; Explorers: June 24-28: rising 1st-6th grades (for mixed sibling ages). All sessions 8am-12noon. Drop off begins at 7:45am. Membership is required for camp registration. Registration is $90 and includes a daily snack, all activities and projects and a camp t-shirt.

Auburn University Extracurricular/ Sports Camps Women’s Soccer Camps

844-9773, khoppa@auburn.edu; www.auburnsoccercamp.com. June 7-9; July 19-21; Girls only Elite Weekend camp; Rising 9th-12th graders June 9-12; Girls only Residential camp; ages 9-16 July 22-24; Co-ed Day camp; ages 9-15 July 21-24; Co-ed Residential camp; ages 9-16 Baseball Academy- Scott Duval at 334-844-4975 Scott@Throw90.com; www.inthestikezone.com 5 Camps: Team camp: June 14-16 & June 18-20; Youth

Brett Hawke Auburn Swim Camps- Debra Hazeldine; djh0007@auburn.edu; 334-844-9746 May 26-30; June 2-6; June 9-13; June 16-20

Tiger Golf Camp- Spring Kickoff Golf Camp: March 16; 334-844-9657; cabbarw@auburn.edu Tiger Camp: June 4-7; Nick Clinard, Head Coach- 334844-9497 www.auburntigers.com Women’s Camp: June 10-12; Margaret Shirley; 334-8449657; shirlml@auburn.edu

Equestrian Camps- Carolyn Williams, 844-9426; carolyn031@centurytel.net Spring Clinic: May 11-12; Elite: June 10-13, Elite College Prep: July8-11; Select 20: June 17-20; Youth: June 24-27

Volleyball Camp- 334-844-9795; cwc0004@auburn.edu July 12-14- All-Skills Camp July 11- Position Camp July 20-22- Team Camp July 22-23- Team Tournament

Football Camps- 844-8855 www.auburnfootballcamps.com; wbolt@auburn.edu Fantasy Camp: May 31-June 2 Tiger Camp: June 2-4; Grades 4-12 High School Team: June 6-7 Senior Team Mini: June 9 & July 20 Auburn Kicking Academy: June 10-11 Special Teams: July 21 June 6-8- Tiger Camp (boys in grades 4-12 as of fall 2011) Camp is “instruction intensive.” Each camper will receive as much individual instruction on football fundamentals and techniques.

Women’s Basketball Camps – Terri Williams-Flournoy, 844-9645; skf0008@auburn.edu Overnight: June 2-5; Day Camp: June 17-20; Elite Camp: June21; Team Play: June 27-28

All-Star Overnight Camp: July 12-14; Elite Camp: July 14-18; High School Exposure Camp: July 21-24

Gymnastics Camps- 844-5047; kurth@auburn.edu Elite Commuter or Overnight: June 9-12; Day Camp: June 13-14. Lacrosse Camps- June 24-27; Jay Card; www.xceleratelacrosse.com Men’s Basketball Camps- Mike Babul, 844-9737; mbabul@auburn.edu Overnight: June 3-6, June 24-27, July 26-29. Little Tigers: June 24-26, June 25-27, July 9-11; Father/Son Camp: June 15-16; Middle School Team: June 27-28; High School Team: June 29-30; Day Camp: July 9-11. Softball Camps- Steve Johnson; saj0008@auburn.edu; 334-844-9654 Elite: June 9-12; entering grades 7 - 12 Fundamental: July 7-9; entering grades 3-8 Tennis- 334-703-1672; www.gteamtennis.com; Kids Camp- June 3-7. Boys and girls 10 and under; 10-14yrs Girls: June 9-13; age 14-18 Boys: June 16-20; age 14-18 Co-Ed Tiger: June 23-27; age 10-18

Fine Arts Camps

Celtic Traditions School of Irish Dance

2705 Frederick Road, Suite 3, Opelika. 705-0303; www.celtic-traditions.net Celtic Traditions School of Irish Dance is the only studio in the area to teach Irish dance. Two, week-long day camps: June 17-21 and July 15-19. 9am-12noon. For beginners, ages 8yrs and up. $125, includes a t-shirt. Registration and fees due by May 15 and June 15 (depending on the session).

City of Auburn Parks and Recreation

A Day In Clay Cari Philen, 501-2944, June 22, 1-4pm. Dean Road Rec Center. During this one day open house we encourage the whole family to visit our fully-equipped studio, enjoy beverages and snacks as well as watch demonstrations by studio members. Visitors who want to have the experience of working in clay can pay $10 per person and select either an adult or kids project to create. All projects are led by Dean Road Ceramic Studio instructors and will be taught at 1:00, 2:00 and 3:00 pm. Art for Young Children 501-2963; 3 Sessions: June 25-27, July 23-25, Aug 6-8. Jan Dempsey Community Art Center. 10am-12noon. Preschool children, ages 4-6yrs, will explore a variety of age appropriate art materials including clay, paint, and fabric. The first session will focus on bilingual (English/Spanish) workshops conducted by Auburn University Professor Chichi Lovett. Price includes cost of all materials and snack. Some projects may be repeated throughout

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

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the summer with variations in accordance with sound educational pedagogy. We are an ART workshop with an emphasis on the process of creating art, elements of art, experience using a variety of age appropriate materials and art appreciation. An exhibition of the children’s artwork is held at the end of each session. Summer Safari Clay tabithapennekamp@gmail.com; June 17-21. Dean Road Rec Center. Ages 7-14yrs. 9-10:30am. Explore clay handbuilding techniques to construct a safari themed bathroom set, creating a giraffe toothbrush holder, a hippopotamus soap dish, and monkey mirror. During this safari adventure, you will develop slab, and coil building techniques. You will also learn how to decorate, carve, and glaze your pieces so that your style gives these critters fierce personalities. Materials fee covers the cost of clay, glazes, and kiln firings:$95/participant; $90/additional sibling + $10 materials fee for all. Musical Theatre Camp Jr. Melanie Brown, 502-9326; Ages 5-11yrs. Singing, dancing, acting, character development, and more! $110 per child. For dates, contact Melanie. Musical Theatre Camp Elizabeth Childs, 559-8224; Ages 8-12yrs. Love to sing? Love to dance? Love to act? Then you’ll love our musical theatre camp! Over the course of the week, young actors will learn music, staging and choreography for several Broadway numbers and then have two opportunities to show off what they have learned at the end of the week! $180 per child. For dates, contact Elizabeth. Musical Theatre Camp for Teens Kim Hirt; 801-851-0258; Ages 13-18, don’t miss this chance to learn the songs and styles of Broadway! Students, of all skill levels, improve theatre-related skills in voice, dance, and acting while preparing for a performance at the end of the week for family and friends. $150 per child. For dates, contact Kim. Smart Arts Summer Williams, 329-9361; June 8, 15, 22, 29. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Ages 18month3yrs. No one is too young for camp! Join us each week for a mommy and me art class! Together we will sing, read books, explore and create art together! $60. Visual Art Workshops 501-2963; Five Sessions: June 17-21, July 8-12, July 15-19, July 29-Aug 2, Aug 12-16. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. 9:30am-12:30pm. Ages 7yr and up. These workshops are organized by Auburn University Professor Chichi Lovett. A variety of age appropriate classes will be taught by area artists and art educators. The first two sessions will focus on bilingual (English/Spanish) workshops. Price includes cost of all materials and snack. Some projects may be repeated throughout the summer with variations in accordance with sound educational pedagogy. We are an ART workshop with emphasis on the process of creating art, elements of art, experience using a variety of age appropriate materials and art appreciation. An exhibition of the children’s artwork is held at the end of each session. $70 per week per child / $65 for each additional child. Young Artist Atelier 501-2963; Two Sessions: June 24-28, July 22-26. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. 10am-2:30pm. Ages 11-15yrs. This program will offer studio and museum experiences to young artists. This program is a collaborative art program provided by the City of Auburn/Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, the Auburn Arts Association and the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Limited number of need-based scholarships will be available. $100 per week per child.

City of Opelika Parks and Recreation Art Camp - Ages 5-12 years; Call for more info, 705-5560. Ceramics Camp- For more information call Shirley Caswell, 705-5557.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art 901 South College Street, Auburn. 844-1484; www.jcsm.auburn.edu Saturday Art Club- Spring is here, and we’ll usher in the new season with watercolors to create landscape paintings. Saturday Art Clubs are an open studio format, meaning you can use the full hour to work on your creations or leave when finished. For this reason, parents are encouraged to stay for the entire session and visit our galleries while they wait. Art Clubs are funded through a City of Auburn K-12 Arts Education Outreach Grant.

Make Your Move Dance Studio Mandy Moore, 334.705.0205; 116 Columbus Parkway, Opelika. For more info on the summer camps, call Mandy.

Nix Dance Studio- Paula Nix, 334-887-7250.

850 Stage Road, Auburn. 6 week Summer Fun Dance Camps! Enroll Now! VIP (very important princess class) 3-4yr olds, Hip Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Lyrical / Contemporary, and Turns, Leaps, & Technique! Camps begin June 4.

Spicer’s Music Band Camp www.spicersgaragebandcamp.com; garagebandcamp@gmail.com 2 Rock Camps: $325 for 22 hours; Includes t-shirt and water bottle. June 3 - 7 , morning session: 8am-12noon; afternoon session: 1-5pm. June 10-14,afternoon session : 1-5pm. Praise Band Camp: $325 for 22 hours Includes t-shirt and water bottle June 10- 14, morning session: 8am-12noon Attention aspiring musicians, ages 8 - 18! If you love music, and want to play in a rock band, this camp is for you! At Spicer’s Garage Band Camp, you will have a blast as you jam daily with your bandmates. You will receive individualized instruction on your instrument, work with other musicians to choose a band name and logo, write your own song, and learn several current songs. After a fun-filled week of jamming, you and your band will perform on stage with professional lights and sound equipment in front of family and friends. Spicer’s Garage Band Camp....It ROCKS!!!

Summer Showoffs- www.summershows.com; mary@summershowoffs.com July 15-19; 9am-2pm at Lee Scott Academy. Now Showing!!! Summer Showoffs is a music day camp for ages 1st-12th graders that uses music and performance to build

confidence and character. We help students develop their talents on stage! Everyone gets a solo!

Local Day and Overnight Camps Auburn First Baptist Church Child Development Center Summer Camps Summer Camp is a Field-Trip based Program running Tuesday, May 28 - Friday, August 16th; 7:00am to 5:30pm Monday - Friday. Drop-Ins Welcome (space permitting). Summer Camp Enrollment starts Monday, April 1st for Kindergarten - 5th grades (child must have completed Kindergarten). The Child Development Center is a ministry of Auburn First Baptist Church in which we provide safe, loving, quality care for children in a Christian environment. We strive to provide the best in early education by providing hands-on learning so that each child may develop to his or her highest potential cognitively, physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually. 128 E. Glenn Ave. Auburn. Please contact Milissa Clowers, Director or Joyce Grisham, Office Assistant @ 334.821.8125 or afbcdc@gmail.com for more info.

Camp Alpaca- drkimwest@yahoo.com. Auburn, Al ; Have an Alpaca Summer Camp Alpaca invites children ages 9-12 out to the farm for a herd of fun and learning. Discover the joy and daily management of barn life. Explore the challenges of animal healthcare. Attend one or more sessions: Alpaca 101: June 3-7; June 17-21. Alpaca 102: June 10-14; June 24-28. Each session Monday - Friday, 8 am - 11:00 am.$195 per session. City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Camp Kaleidoscope Melissa Weldon, 501-2946; Six Sessions: June 3-7, June 10-14, June 17-21, July 8-12, July 15-19, July 22-26. Auburn Junior High School. 8am-5pm. Ages 6-12 years. Join us for lots of fun this summer in day camp. Each week of camp will be filled with games, activities, special guests, and field trips. Campers can expect to discover new talents and abilities, make new friends, and have a blast. $125 per week, $100 per week for each additional sibling and $675 for the entire summer. Cooking Camp Summer Williams, 329-9361; July 22, 24, 26. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. 3-4:30pm. Ages 5-7yrs. Using famous arts as our vision, create many yummy dishes and eat too! Fee $75. Junior Camp Counselor Program

Melissa Weldon, 501-2946; Ages 13-17 years. Offering teens the unique opportunity of participating in our Summer Camp program…Camp Kaleidoscope. The Junior Camp Counselor position is a volunteer position that teaches teens responsibility and allows them to mentor younger campers. This is a great opportunity for teens to learn invaluable skills necessary for their first “real” job and provides a great atmosphere to socialize with other junior camp counselors in a fun and exciting setting. Also, this is a chance for teens to earn community service credit hours and give back to their community. The deadline for participants to register is May 17. Numbers, Discoveries, and Paintings, Oh My! Summer Williams, 329-9361; June 10, 12, 14. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. 3-5pm. Ages 5K2nd grade. Math, science, and art camp specifically designed for rising kindergarteners-2nd grade. Fee $75. Small Fry Camp Melissa Weldon, 501-2946; June 3-28 and July 8-26. Monday, Wednesday, & Friday; 8-11am. Ages 3-5 (child must be 3 years by the first class).This camp is designed especially for preschoolers. Children will enjoy hands-on activities, music in song and dance, and many other age-related activities. This program reinforces preschool readiness and promotes socialization skills. Field trips may be offered. Child must be toilet trained to participate. $225 fee. Summer Therapeutic Day Camp Dana Stewart, 501-2939; Applications Available Beginning April 1. June 3-July 26: seven week summer day camp designed for young adults with various disabilities. The Summer Camp is a joint project created and sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation and the Exceptional Outreach Organization with a curriculum program that includes life skills training such as handling money, team work, social skills, Zumba, swimming, and other physical recreation activities. The campers also participate in cultural experiences such as attending the Shakespeare Theatre in Montgomery and the Wild Animal Safari in Pine Mountain, GA. Fee $150/ $95 each additional sibling.

City of Opelika Parks and Recreation 705-5560 Spring Break Camp –March 25-29, Covington Center. Structured activities, games and outdoor fun! Fee: $25; Age: 5-10years; 8:00-12 noon. Spring Break “Blow-Out”- March 29; Covington Center. Games fun and lunch to wrap up your spring vacation. No Charge! 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m.

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Growing Room- Welcome Aboard the USS Growing Room Summer Camp 2013! Summer Camp kicks off May 28, 2013. Our Summer Camp includes exciting events and activities for every age group, from Infants to our School Agers. This year we’ll be boarding the USS Growing Room for an exciting underwater adventure! Each week our campers will participate in unique crafts and special events with themes related to the sea and beach. Our 3 & 4 year olds will enjoy bi-weekly field trips, while our School Age travelers will enjoy fun & exciting field trips every week! Our summer curriculum continues to include educational concepts such as literacy, math, science, and character education. Children enjoy warm nutritious meals and the safest play possible on our state of the art playground. Give your child the best summer ever at the Growing Room. We’re open Monday – Friday, 6:30 am – 6:30 pm. Come by today for a tour at 644 North Dean Road, Auburn, AL or call us at 501-2044. Summer Camp registration opens to new enrollments on March 18, 2013.

Kumon Math and Reading Center 1550 Opelika Road, Suite #9/10, Auburn; www.kumon.com/auburn-opelika; 334-501-8586. Academic Enrichment for Pre-K-12th Grade! We strive to develop the untapped potential of each child through building confidence and guiding them to master skills in the fundamental building blocks of math and reading. It is the job of our Kumon Center to encourage each individual child to want to learn, to enjoy learning, and to be capable of studying successfully in the future. Free Placement Testing.

Milestones Learning Center (334) 887-4391; www.milestoneslc.com Childhood is a Journey, Not a Race! Join us this summer for fun and learning. Ages six wks-school age. Our program strives to provide a balance between group and individual activities, child-directed and teacher-directed activities, and more highly and more loosely structured activities. We believe that a child’s “work” is play. Children are given many opportunities in art, music, science, home living, blocks, puzzles/other manipulative activities and large motor skill activities to encourage their growth.

Sew-thern Belles Sewing Studio Stage Road, Auburn. sewthernbelles@gmail.com; 229-869-6775. “Kids Can Sew” program for children 3rd grade and up. We offer a structured, fun environment where children learn while having a blast! Students learn all aspects of sewing including how to thread a sewing machine, how to read a pattern, and how to make clothing and accessories. The classes culminate in a fashion show at the end of the year in which the children are able to model their creations. We guarantee you will amazed at what these children are able to do in a very short time!

The City of Montgomery Zoo Camp

Montgomery Zoo Education Department- Children ages 5-12 can enjoy learning more about animals, conservation and more all while having fun at the zoo. Begins the June 3rd and ends July 24. One week off July 2-6. Advance Registration Required, Fees apply. (334) 2404900; www.montgomeryzoo.com

Valley Rescue Mission: Camp Joy 706-322-8267; www.valleyrescuemission.org/community-ministries/camp-joy; Sponsor a child and give them the best summer experience of their life! There is no fee for the children to attend camp; instead, their camping experience is underwritten by generous donors at the rate of $50 per child per week.Founded in 1974, Camp JOY, nestled in the beautiful foothills of the Appalachian Mountains near Hamilton, Georgia, offers a one-week camping experience for boys & girls between the ages of 7-11.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County- 400-B Boykin Street, Auburn; 334-821-6020. and 1610 Toomer Street, Opelika; 334-745-2582. June 3-Aug 9. Serving ages 6-18yrs. 9am-6pm, Early bird care is available. Registration fee: $25, Weekly Fee: $30. Camp iCare- Women’s Philanthropy Board, 334-8443524. July 8-11; Campers, ages 6-12, will learn the basic skills of being money smart and philanthropically engaged. Activities will include lessons on how to be money smart, creating ways to care for others and our world, meeting with special guests who will share how they are making an impact, participating in leadership and team building games, creating and producing a video about a favorite cause, assembling care packages, and visiting a local helping organization. Kindermusik at Auburn United Methodist Church826-8800. Music and movement classes for ages baby to grade school.

Sports Camps Auburn Thunder www.auburnthundersoccer.com; 256 655 4448. Auburn Thunder (part of the Auburn Soccer Association) is an elite soccer club for boys and girls ages 9-18yrs. To learn more about the program, join us for a parent meeting, May 15. Paperwork deadline: May 31; Team Tryouts: June 3-5; makeup tryouts June 10.

City of Auburn Parks and Recreation

Red Cross Lifeguard Certification Class April 21-25. The course will be taught at Samford Pool. Course fee of $225 includes training manual, rental fees, and necessary equipment. Participants should provide their own swimsuit, change of clothes, pen & paper. Lifeguard notes will be distributed and should be brought to EVER Y class unless otherwise instructed.

Swim Lessons and Teams Beginning June 13, Samford Pool, Auburn. 501-2958 or 501-2930; Swim lessons, Auburn Aquatics Swim Team, and Auburn Dive Team. Morning and evening classes offered. Ages 6 months and up. Participants should wear appropriate swimwear, as testing may be required. For more information, visit auburnalabama.org/pools or pick up a copy of Auburn Parks and Recreation’s Summer Brochure. Sea Babies- Ages 6 months-3 years; Sea Turtles- Ages 3-5yrs; Guppies- Ages 6-10 yrs; DolphinsAges 11-15yrs; Orcas- Ages 16-18yrs; Big Fish- Ages 19 and up. Soccer Three Session: June 3-6, 9am-12noon. July 8-11, 5-8pm. Aug 5-8, 5-8pm. Tennis Travis DeBardelaben, 501-2921; Four Sessions: June 3-6, June 17-20, July 8-11, July 30-Aug 2. Yarbrough Tennis Center. 9am-1pm. Ages 6rs and up. Open to players of all levels. Learn tennis strokes, rules of the game, and fun games. Proper shoes, hat, sunscreen, swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes are required. Water activities will be part of our daily cool down. $100 or $175 for two kids. All Other Sports Camps June 10-14 and July 8-12; 9am-12noon

City of Opelika Parks and Recreation American Red Cross Lifeguard Course -Mandy Johnson- mjohnson@ci.opelika.al.us, 705-2488. Want a fun and exciting job for the summer or year round. Get certified to be a professional lifeguard. This 30 hour course covers lifeguard skills, first aid, and CPR. Cost: $200 2 Sessions-April 1-11; May 6-16; 4:00-8:00pm. Opelika SeaDawgs Summer Swim Team- Mandy Johnson- mjohnson@ci.opelika.al.us, 705-2488. Summer Swimming Lessons- Ages 4 and up (beginner through advanced classes). $50 fee Session I- June 3-14; Session II- June 17-June 28; Session III- July 8-19; Session IV: July 22-Aug 2. Parent

and Me- June 10-26; Monday & Wednesday,8:30-9am. Spring Power Tumbling Camp- Opelika Rec. Center, Denson Drive. Ben White- bwhite@ci.opelika.al.us, 7055547; March 4th, 5th and 7th. Ages: 7 and up; Cost: $30 (includes t-shirt).3:30-5:30pm.

H&G Horse Quarters Summer Riding Camps

6 camps, (334) 887 0026; www.hghorsequarters.com Spring Break Camp- March 25-27: Ages 9-14yrs. 9:00am-3:00pm; Ages 5-8yrs. 9:00am-1:00pm. Joey Camp- May 27-31 & Aug 5-9: Beginner ages 5-8yrs. No experience necessary. 8:00am-1:00pm. Students learn safety, grooming, tacking-up and mounting, walk/trot in balance with their mounts and more! $300 Crocodile Camp- June 10-14: For riders that can at least walk/trot on the rail and beginning overcross rails. 8:00am-3:00pm. Increase knowledge on horsemanship, safety, and riding awareness, expand knowledge on show ring expectations. Camp Show on the last day! $350. Kangaroo Camp- June 17-21: Beginner riders ages 9-14 yrs. No experience necessary. 8:00am-3:00pm. Learn to groom, tack-up, mount, walk, trot, and canter in balance with the mount and more! Giraffe Camp- July 29-Aug 2: Advance riders who can walk, trot, cantor, and jump 18”. 8:00am-3:00pm; Loading, clipping, show grooming, wrapping, first aid, daily management, jumping lesions every day, seminar with local vet and farrier.

Premier Spirit Academy 334-821-7300; www.premierspiritacademy.com PSA Kids Summer: June 3-5: Ages 3-6 yrs: 3 & 4 year old – tumbling, games and Lots of Fun; 5 & 6 Year old – tumbling, motions, jumps and Lots of Fun. Registered by May 28, $60 per student; After May 28, $70 per student PSA Tumbling Camp: June 10-13: Ages 7-18- Tumbling skill levels through tucks. Register by June 4, $100; After June 4, $110.

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Auburn Academy of Mixed Martial Arts334-502-7221; 323 Airport Road, Suite J, Auburn. www.auburnacademy.com; Camps begin in June. Auburn High School Cheer Camp- Susan Byrne, skbyrne@auburnschools.org; May 28-30, 9am-12noon. AHS Gym. cheer camp dates will be May 28-30 9am-12pm, AHS Gymnasium. Auburn Mixed Martial Arts- ‘Camp for Champs’ 334-887-0818; 2515 East Glenn Ave, Auburn. www.auburnmma.com June 3-7; June 24-28; July 8-12; July 15-19; July 22-26 Camps offered for boys and girls in anti-bully techniques, Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Kickboxing, wrestling, Judo and more! Space is limited- register today! No experience needed! 9:00am-12:00noon (t-shirt included). Plains Junior Golf- Moore’s Mill Golf Club, Auburn. Will Blackmon , 319-0051 or Elizabeth Rodgers, 821-6533; golfhouse.mooresmill@gmail.com Offering girls, boys and co-ed golf camps. Sandy’s Stables Summer Day Campwww.sandysstables.net; 334-741-0020; sandysstables@ bellsouth.net; Day Camp will be Monday through Friday 8:00am-2:00pm; June 10-14; June 24-28; July 8-12; July 15-29.Day camp will include: 2 mounted lessons a day, English riding, Western riding, bareback riding, trail rides, grooming, horse safety, horsemanship, horse care, tack, driving a pony and cart etc...Students will also enjoy cooling off on our water slide. Riders are able to set their own goals and accomplish them. $450 per week Sports Academy - www.sportsacademyauburn.com Pre-Season Baseball and Softball Skills Camp -March 16; 9 am- 3 pm; Duck Samford Park – Auburn (behind Mikata’s off Glenn & Airport Road) Ages 7-12. $75 per camper. Pre-registration required. Each camper will receive a Sports Academy camp t-shirt. Campers should bring their own glove, bat, sunscreen, drinks, snacks & lunch. Youth Wrestling Camp by Auburn High School- Nick Tucker, ntucker@auburnschools.org; www.auburntakedown.com; July 8-11: 8am-12noon; Rising Kindergarten6th Graders. Preregistration is preferred to order camp shirts. $75

Regional Day & Overnight Camps Active8

Columbus State University, Continuing Education Summer Camps- www.activ8er.com; 706-507-8070. Genius at Play! 10 weeks of active summer fun! Half day and full day options, before and after care available, new camps to choose from every week. Camps begin June 3-Aug. Early Bird saves you 5% through April 16th. Fees $65-$185 per camp. Activ8 Academy: Ages 4-7yrs: Fairy Tale Adventures, Science, Pirates, Super Heros, Sports and more. Activ8ers: Ages 8-11yrs: Braintraining, Creat-a-Lots, iTech, Just 4 U, Scienceologies, Showbiz, Sports & Dance. BeTween 2 Teen: Ages 11 and up: Braintraining, Creata-Lots, iTech, Just 4 U, Scienceologies, Showbiz, Sports & Dance. Oxbow Meadows: Ages 0-14; Nature Commander, Wild About Animals Sports Camps: Ages 4-up; Cheerleading, Basketball, Rifle, Soccer, Baseball, Dance, Golf, Tennis, Volleyball and more! Columbus Regional Mathematics Collaborative: Ages 8-14yrs; Problem Solving Investigators, POWER and PRIME. CocaCola Space and Science Center: Ages 5-10yrs; So You Want To Be An Astronaut, Space Extravaganza, RocketBoosters, LightSpeedsters, and more!

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Alabama School of Math and Science: Summer Fun Camp

1255 Dauphin St., Mobile; 251-441-2128; www.asms.net Don’t waste your summer! Spend it at AIMS Summer Camp and learn while you have fun! Kayak in Mobile Bay. Build a smartphone app. Investigate a crime. Prepare for the ACT. Design and make metal sculpture. Speak German. Create a hologram. Launch a rocket... and much more! There is something for everyone! Who can enroll? Students entering the 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th grades as well as incoming ASMS students. Non-Alabama residents are also eligible to apply. This year AIMS will run for three sessions. Students can sign up for one or all three weeks. Session 1 (June 4-8) is an overnight camp. Session 2 (June 11-15) is an overnight or day camp. Session 3 (June 18-22) is a day camp. Day camp is 8am-3:15pm. Overnight Campers: $375 per week (all-inclusive - meals, classes, activities, and lodging). Weekend between week one and week two is an additional $150, which includes trip to a water park (weather permitting) and other fun activities. Day Campers: $260 per week (this includes tuition and lunch). Discount: $25 discount (one per student) if application and all applicable forms are received by April 16.

Camp ASCCA 256-825-9226; www.campascca.org Camp ASCCA is Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. ASCCA is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and mental disabilities. Providing weekend and week long sessions, Camp ASCCA is open year-round. Located in Alabama on Lake Martin, Camp ASCCA offers campers a wide variety of recreational and educational activities. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements like the zip-line, and much more.

Camp Cosby www.campcosby.org; 2290 Paul Bear Bryant Road, Alpine, AL. 1-800-85 COSBY; wmcclain@campcosby.org 8 Sessions throughout the summer. Ages 6-16yrs; At Camp Cosby, boys and girls have the opportunity to build self esteem, grow, learn, and challenge themselves. Campers also learn to develop values such as caring, honesty, respect and responsibility. Pool, lake adventures, horses, trials, team building, zip line, and much more! Specialty camps include BMX camps, wake boarding and ski camps, and wrangler.

Camp Kanuga www.kanuga.org/camps-and-outdoor-education; Hendersonville, NC 828-692-9136. Our campers are boys and girls ages 7-15. They come for 9- or 13-day sessions to swim, climb, paddle a canoe, tie dye a t-shirt, hike and, most of all, to enjoy God’s creation away from the distractions of everyday life. Activities include outdoor education, archery, arts and crafts, climbing, performing arts, sports, aquatics, music and more!

Camp Shine www.childrensal.org/TeamTeen June 2-8. Offering a week long session for weight management. Campers learn healthy eating habits while preparing meals. Campers also have opportunities to participate in swimming, canoeing, hiking, arts & crafts, dance and many other activities. Ages 12-15; Limited space available; Located at YMCA Hargis Retreat and made possible through a partnership with Birmingham YMCA. Register by April 15 with deposit of $100, balance due on May 15; Camp fee $650.

Riverview Camp for Girls 1-800-882-0722; www.riverviewcamp.com An all girls overnight camp in Mentone, Alabama. River View offers many sessions all summer long for girls ages 6-16 years. Horse riding, swimming, nature trails, ropes,

sports, arts and crafts, and much more! There are also weekend retreats for mother-daughter adventures. JuneAugust. $1,300-$2,400 rates. 10% discount is allowed for 2nd or more sisters of the same family.

YMCA Camp Widjiwagan Nashville, TN. 615-360-2267; www.campwidji.org Located on the shores of Percy Priest Lake, in Antioch, Tennessee, just 20 minutes from downtown Nashville. Camp Widjiwagan sits on 320 acres and 4 miles of shoreline at the Joe C. Davis YMCA Outdoor Center. Offering day, overnight and family retreats. Co-ed programs for rising 1st-9th graders. Activities include team building, leadership, swimming/splash park, lake sports, horseback riding, team adventures, sports, zipline, and ski and equestrian schools and much more! Alabama School of Fine Arts- (205) 252-9241; www. asfa.k12.al.us; Birmingham, Al. Programs in creative writing, dance, music, theatre arts, math/science, and visual arts. Alabama Shakespeare Festival - Greta Lambert at the ASF Education Department at (334) 271-5393 or glambert@asf.net. Camp Shakespeare (grades 4-6)- A week of acting, stage combat, movement/dance, voice training and technical theatre. Students perform an abridged Shakespeare play in a setting that emphasizes teamwork and creative discovery. Camp Shakespeare Extreme- (grades 7-12); Advanced middle and high school students dig deeper into the world of Shakespeare -- his text, his complex characters. Discover new levels of theatrical expression. Behind the Curtain- Technical Theatre Camp- (grades 9-12); When directors and actors need sets, lights, sound and costumes so they can look good, who do they turn to? You! Learn from the best master theatre artists and designers in the business!

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

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Broadway South: ASF Musical Theatre Camp- (grades 9-12); Acclaimed ASF singers and dancers teach an intensive week of classes in voice, choreography and acting skills for the aspiring musical star. Weekend Warrior: Introduction to Stage Combat- (grades 7-12); Work with a professional fight choreographer and learn the skills and techniques of the masters of stage combat! Alabama Wildlife Federation-Camp Lanark -1-800822-9453; www.alabamawildlife.org; Millbrook, Al. Expedition Lanark is a full day summer camp that provides hands-on, outdoor educational activities that teach natural resource stewardship, develop leadership skills, and build character.Camps: Nature Navigators, Heritage Explorers, Survivor Week, and Fishing Academy; Ages: Campers ages 6-15.

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The Bedford School “Squirrel Hollow Camp”- 5665 Milam Road, Fairburn, Ga. (770) 774- 8001. www.thebedfordschool.org/summer.htm The summer program of The Bedford School, serves children with academic needs due to learning difficulties. The program, which has been held each summer since 1981, is for students of ages 6 to 16. Between 55 and 65 students attend the 5-week day camp, which is held on the beautiful 46-acre campus of The Bedford School in Fairburn, GA. Campers participate in an individualized academic program as well as recreational activities (swimming, team games, Challenge Course elements and a variety of other games and activities). Academic instruction in the areas of reading, reading comprehension, math, auditory discrimination and writing skills through a variety of structured, multi-sensory techniques and materials.

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Camp Alamisco - (334) 272-7493 Ext: 123; www.gscsda.org; “Crazy Love- 1 Corinthians 13-4-8”. At Camp Alamisco, you see Jesus in nature, in the staff, and in all the activities we do. Come and be apart of a group who believes that Jesus is the One who has shown the “Crazy Love” for each of us and we can be with Him for all eternity. Purpose is to provide high quality Christian camping and retreat facilities. We are a year round camp and we are open to church and school groups as well as corporate functions. We are located one 55 acres on beautiful Lake Martin near Dadeville Alabama. Ages 7-16 years. Camp Fletcher- 205-428-1059; McCalla, Al. www.campfire-al.org; Utilizes outdoor activities to stimulate curiosity and the desire to learn. Programming is age specific and gives children and youth the chance to live, learn and share with others; the opportunity to discover and build their own individual skills; and a chance to become closely involved with the natural environment. Offering Residential Camps and Day Camps & Counseling In-Training and Leader-In Training Programs. Ages 1st-9th graders. Rates from $90-$300; Camps June-August. Camp Jam Atlanta- www.campjam.com Why not spend a week of fun jammin’ out in their very own rock band, designing their own marketing packet, and participating in team building activities - all while learning from the best professional musicians in your area. That’s what Camp Jam Kidz is all about ‘ a bunch of kidz, having a good time while learning how to rock out! Day and overnight camps. Camp Juliette Low- 706-862-2169; www.cjl.org Cloudland, Georgia: Camp Juliette Low is a private, non-profit summer camp for girls ages 7 to 17, accredited by the American Camp Association. CJL provides campers with fun and exciting ways to become more confident and competent, individually and in groups, through one-week and two-week outdoor residential programs.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

grams for boys and girls. Each camp session will provide campers the opportunity to experience aspects of outdoor life such as swimming, canoeing, arts, crafts, nature study, sports, archery, ropes course, hiking and camping, and horseback riding full week sessions and mini-camps; Ages 6-15 years old, Pell City, AL. Camp Woodmont- www.campwoodmont.com Camp Woodmont is a traditional overnight summer camp for boys and girls ages 6-14. Located on 170 acres of beautiful North Georgia woodlands on top of Lookout Mountain. Your summer camp experience provides cabin living, moderate summer daytime temperatures, cool evenings around the campfire, creative counselors, new friends, talent/skit nights, and a close family-like atmosphere. Counselor/camper ratio averages 1:5.One week and Two week camps offered. Lookout Mountain Camp for Boys- www.lookoutmountaincamp.com; Lookout Mountain Camp For Boys is a traditional summer camp. Our program includes: water sports (swimming, diving, canoeing, and our famous zip line), horseback riding, rifle marksmanship, archery, tennis, arts and crafts, even fly-fishing with much more...all under the supervision of excellent staff. Mentone, Al. 2 week-8 week sessions. McWane Science Center- 205-714-8300; Birmingham. www.mcwane.org; Hands-on educational programming with themes such as Dino Discoveries, One Fish, Two Fish, Astro Tots, Under the Sea, Young Engineers, Lab Rats, Music Mania, Robotics and more! Camps are ½ day or full day. Spring Break Camp: March 18-22;. Summer Sessions beginning June 3-August 9. Shocco Springs- 1-800-718-2267; www.kidscamp. studentlife.com; Shocco Springs Conference Center gives the feeling of being tucked comfortably away in a secret place that allows for focus, fun and relaxation centered around Christian worship. It’s located just outside Talladega, Ala., an hour’s drive from Birmingham and two hours from Atlanta, in the middle of beautiful, pristine forestland. Stringfellows- 334-240-4004; www.montgomerysymphony.org; The Montgomery Symphony Orchestra and Huntingdon College offers a summer music camp to serve as a preparatory program for students of violin, viola, cello and bass, this six-day residential music camp will focus on building the musical skills necessary for success on one’s instrument. Rising 7th - 9th graders are eligible to attend. Camp enrollment will be limited to the first 30 applicants accepted.

Camp Marannook- 334.864.7504; www.marannook. com; Lafayette, Al. From sunrise to after sunset, every camp day is packed with fun. Campers will swim, shoot archery, make crafts, eat s’mores around the campfire, and play games on the game field. They explore a huge maze, ride the cable car and crazy swing and are challenged by various rope and climbing activities. And there is a one-of-a-kind Bible Time with skits and drama. When the campers arrive, the counselors are ready to build relationships and to share the love of Christ through these relationships. JuneJuly; 1st – 9th graders; Residential and Day Camps. Camp New Song- 205-877-2224 or 205-877-2225, www.alfoundationforoncology.org If you have a child who has experienced a loss, Camp Newsong can be a valuable resource for you and your family. Losing a loved one is always traumatic, and for a child, especially. Camp Newsong is there to help you help your child during this difficult time. Camp News-

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

ong is a free program open to all grieving children in Alabama. Camp sessions are held at the YMCA Hargis Retreat in Chelsea, Alabama for children ages 6-18. Sessions April- December; Alabama Foundation for Oncology, P.O. Box 660833, Birmingham. Camp Skyline Ranch- 1 (800) 448-9279, www. campskyline.com. Mentone, AL. A Christian Summer Camp for Girls: Since 1947, Camp Skyline has been the summer home for generations of campers. A summer camp for girls, Skyline offers one and two week sessions where campers make new friends, honor old traditions, and strengthen their faith. Camp Skyline accepts girls of good character, between the ages of 6 and 16. A camper may enroll for 2, 4, 6, or 8 weeks of camp. Camp Winnataska- (205) 640-6741; www.winnataska.org; Located east of Birmingham, Alabama, Camp Winnataska offers a wide variety of quality pro-

Valley View Ranch Equestrian Camp- (706)8622231; www.valleyviewranch.com; Valley View Ranch has been to help each rancher have the full opportunity of horsemanship through instruction, time in the saddle on trails, and the care and responsibility of having her own horse, all a’top beautiful Lookout Mountain. We offer several riding programs and encourage each camper to participate in all of them: English and Hunt Seat; Western Stock Seat and Barrels and Vaulting. Each girl can spend as much time as she likes with her favorite horse during her stay. Located on 600 acres of lush pastures, wooded trails, and panoramic views in Cloudland, Georgia. One or two week sessions. YMCA Camp Chandler- (334) 269-4362; www.campchandler.org; One of the largest camps in the south with over 1,000 acres of lakefront property. It is conveniently located just 25 miles from Montgomery, AL on beautiful Lake Jordan. Whether you are looking for individual, small group, or camp-wide fun, we definitely have something for you! Campers are grouped according to age and gender. They live in cabins with up to 13 other campers and at least 2 counselors. Friendships grow as they live, share meals, laugh, and play together during a full week of fun! Campers are given the opportunity to participate in more than 20 different activities like horseback riding, skiing, archery, sailing, the high ropes course, and more. Ages 5-15 years old. AOP

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

Checking Out the Competition From seeing who can eat ice cream the fastest to racing a sibling for the elevator button, competition makes an early appearance in childhood and kids are naturals at it. But how they manage the competition can be trying if they don’t know how to balance the spirit of the challenge with the reality that there is usually only one first place winner. Competition among peers is healthy when children are testing themselves or playing a game where fun is the greater goal than ‘the win’. For those “second place” and “also ran” moments in a child’s journey, the following books explore competition in ways that value the spirit of the challenge and the discovery of talents that even a lower place on the podium can reveal.

Penguin’s Hidden Talent by Alex Latimer (Peachtree Publishing) From the moment the Talent Show is announced, and excitement is high as Penguin’s friends all begin practicing for the big day. Albatross can swallow fish, Bear juggles appliances and Fox can burp the alphabet like a beast! But Penguin can’t seem to find his own talent. He can’t bake, knit or read maps – and he’s starting to feel talent-free as the show approaches. With no showy skill to present, Penguin offers to help with the planning and preparations instead. He post flyers, sends emails and polishes the trophy. The show is a great success, but Penguin’s friends notice he’s not around later to celebrate with the winners. They decide to throw him a party to cheer him up, but they’re not very good at planning and organizing – and that’s when Penguin discovers his hidden talent! This title is a celebration of the behind-the-scenes winners who make the showcase events successful!

The Great Race by Kevin O’Malley (Walker & Company) Lever Lapin is an insufferable winner. He’s a racing celebrity blowing into town just in time to disrupt Nate Tortoise’s lunch. All the fuss over the loud, bragging hare and his flashy accomplishments wears on Nate to the point he stands up and challenges Lapin to a race. The stakes are high as Nate will have to paint “Lever Lapin is a Genius” on his shell if he loses. Nate prepares as well as he can, but it seems impossible that he can cross the finish line first. And truly, when the starter pistol goes off, Lapin is gone in a flash. He jets almost to the finish and the welcoming crowds where he begins to bask among the cheering autograph seekers. They welcome his boasts and prideful gloating for hours – while a small persistent competitor trots behind the crowd and changes the game. A testament to drive and persistence, even against great odds – The Great Race is a laugh-out-loud poke at poor sports.

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by Rebecca Janni, Illustrated by Lynne Avril (Dial Books / Penguin) The county fair is coming to town and Nellie Sue is most excited about the Bike Rodeo that comes with it! She flies on her pink “steed” in practice, and is secretly hopeful that she can be faster than her friend A.J. Pickett (two-time winner of other Bike Rodeos). Nellie Sue and her friends train on their bikes – and when fair day comes, they are ready for all kinds of competitions. They enter the pie-eating contest, play the ring-toss and water balloons – with varying success. But the real event is coming up soon. Nellie takes her two-wheeled horse around the barrels with flash, turning in a great time. She’s in the lead when A.J. takes his turn. But an unforeseen event leaves Nellie with a choice of winning or doing the right thing to keep the competition fair. Kids will appreciate the lessons about friendship, honor and good sportsmanship with this colorful tale from the rodeo!

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Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

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The Adventures In Math and Science summer program is an academic-oriented summer camp for rising 7th-10th graders.

AIMS 2013

Don’t waste your summer! Spend it at the AIMS Summer Camp at the Alabama School of Math and Science! Learn while you have fun! Kayak Mobile Bay. Design a maze. Build a smart phone app. Solve a crime. Prepare for the ACT. Learn how to make jewelry. Build a robot. Launch a rocket...and much more! AIMS will run for two sessions! Session 1 (June 3-7) is an overnight or day camp. Session 2 (June 10-14) is an overnight or day camp. Who can enroll? Students entering the 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th grades.

Tuition

Applications, more information, and course descriptions are online at www.asms.net.

Course Sampling Photoshop, So You Want to be an MD?, Math Games, Marine Biology, Robotics, Alchemy of Harry Potter, Codes and Ciphers, Smart Phone Apps, CSI: Mobile, Labs of Doom, Geometry, Cyber Security, Weird Food Science, The American West through Film, ACT Prep, Painting, Field Biology for Beginners, American Sign Language, PHUN Physics, Amazing Mazes, Rocketry, Engineering the Future, Etiquette for the Modern Girl, Psychology, Rock ‘N’ Roll History, Jewelry Design, & many more...

What is ASMS?

Tuition for overnight camp is $375 per week and is allinclusive. Tuition for day camp is $275 and includes lunch. The cost to stay the weekend between Sessions 1 and 2 is an additional $175 (includes trip to water park). Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Applications

Located in Mobile, ASMS is the state’s only fully residential and public high school for highly motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors. 49

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Exploring Alabama

Through Family Camping

by Alison K. Rouse

If you had told me five years ago that my family would own a pop-up camper and that I could speak with some knowledge on public parks around our state, I would have been doubtful. After all, I only had two memories of camping as a child, one with my family and one with a friend and her grandparents. My husband and I had never even camped together, despite frequent short and long trips before and after we had children. However, as the parents of two young boys, ages 9 and 7, we have become active in the Cub Scout program. We have discovered that camping has exposed our family to experiences we cannot achieve elsewhere, and aside from some start-up costs, it is relatively inexpensive. For example, most state and federal parks offer camp sites for tents and campers, with nominal daily fees starting from as little as $15 or $20 a day. Bath houses offer hot water, showers and restrooms. Some parks even rent cabins, chalets or hotel rooms and offer full-service restaurants! (This is not your parents’ camping…) Parks can offer your family a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, boating, fishing, biking and geocaching. If you are new to geocaching, it is basically Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

treasure-hunting with a handheld GPS (global positioning satellite) device. We have found that it is a wonderful way to motivate otherwise inactive “homebodies.” If the thought of outdoor adventure is new or overwhelming to some members of your family, there are quite a few ways to ease into it. Some easy suggestions are to buy a few basic supplies, such as a tent and sleeping bags, and simply try camping in the back yard overnight. Grill some hot dogs and roast marshmallows over a fire built in a chiminea or fire pit and resist the urge to go indoors for every little thing. You may find, as we did the first time we tried this, that your kids are not quite ready to take it to the next step yet. If that is the case, you can always visit a park for the day and still take advantage of hiking, fishing and swimming. For example, we found that there are enough things to keep our family busy spending an afternoon at Tannehill Ironworks Historical Park in McCalla near Birmingham. A shady creek with plenty of cool water and room to swim is a welcome respite from summer heat, 50

but there are also areas to fish and hike, and a small train travels from one area of the park to another. Depending on when you go, there may be a rock and mineral show, or a Civil War battle reenactment taking place. A small general store offers ice cream and cold drinks when you’re ready for a snack. Once your family is ready for overnight adventure, one helpful web site to visit is http://alapark.com/. This site does not include all of Alabama’s state parks, but it does

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include those managed 2,000 pounds, but were not willing at that by Alabama’s Departtime to buy a new vehicle with larger towing ment of Conservation capacity. That, along with wanting something and Natural Resourcwe could store in our own back yard, limited es. A map of the state our options. We also wanted something rustic shows their locations, enough that would still make us feel like we and links describe were camping. everything from In some ways, a pop-up is akin to a tent directions and day use on wheels, and it can take almost an hour to fees, to activities in set it up. But it does have a propane heater, the park and nearby an electric air conditioner, a small refrigeraareas. Some, such as tor, sink, stove top, two queen beds, a table Lake Guntersville and seating that can double as two additional State Park and Cheaha small beds. There is no restroom, but we located in Delta, offer rationalized that we wouldn’t have that in a on-site restaurants. tent anyway. Parks do have restrooms, and it In addition to the has been my experience that most are reasonOn-site dining at Cheaha State Park conservation parks, ably clean. historic state parks If your family decides to consider a May. The campground has a pavilion that include Tannehill camper, you might want to visit www.goRVhosts planned activities for campers, and our Ironworks in McCalla (http://www.tannehill. ing.com for detailed information including boys enjoyed a few competitive rounds of org/), Brierfield Ironworks near Birmingham affordability and options. Either way, you will old-fashioned family bingo. During the day, (http://www.brierfieldironworks.org/), Fort still need some basic camping supplies, such we hiked near the Alabama Wildlife RehaToulouse-Fort Jackson in Wetumpka (http:// as coolers and cookware. Consider campbilitation Center, the state’s oldest and largest www.forttoulouse.com/) and Fort Blakely ing with another family so that if one of you wildlife rehabilitation facility that annually in Spanish Fort (http://blakeleypark.com/). forgets something, there is a chance that the receives almost 1,800 birds from more than These parks have the added bonus of mixing other remembered it! 100 different species. My guiltiest pleasure, history with nature, providing ample learnAlso, think about bringing along board however, was going out to dinner that night ing opportunities for your kids. In addition games and books for the kids if rain keeps at the Melting Pot to camp sites, Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson in Restaurant in the new Wetumpka is a great place for biking, history shopping center off and boating. If you get hungry and forgot Cahaba Valley Road. to pack enough food, several restaurants are located minutes away on Highway 231. Tent Vs. Domino’s Pizza will even deliver in the park! Prairie Creek and Gunter Hill were both Camper? established by the U.S. Corps of Engineers Our family and can be found on http://www.us-parks. started with a tent, and com/alabama-camping.html along with many we still use it for some other Corps campgrounds located across the occasions, but we have state. You can also visit http://www.recreation. found that for all four gov/ and search for Alabama parks. of us to camp longer than one night, we prefer the conveniences Keeping it Close that our small camper Chewacla, right here in Auburn, boasts provides. Only you a man-made waterfall and plenty of hiking can determine what Waterfall at Chewacla State Park in Auburn trails. Cabins are available as well, but don’t will work best for expect to get them on a football weekend! you indoors. We have chosen to leave the your own family, but there are a few things Wind Creek State Park is located seven miles electronic games at home on some trips and to consider. How often do you plan to camp? southeast of Alexander City, so it is quite limit them during others, depending on the How much are you willing to spend? Where popular with fans of Lake Martin. Park faciliamount of activities planned for the weekend. do you plan to go? How much space do you ties include a marina with boat ramps, camp Just remember that the main goal of camping need to store your supplies? store, pavilions for picnicking, and a 210-foot is to offer your family a chance to relax and For example, we know people who own fishing pier. Two hiking trails allow visienjoy nature and each other! big RVs that cannot be stored at their own tors to view blooming dogwoods and other houses, so they have to pay to keep them at a wildflowers, and parts of the north picnic trail Alison is associate editor of Montgomery Parents. She storage unit. Also, big pull-behind RVs need offer spectacular views of Lake Martin. is married to her husband, Scott, and has two sons, Alex big vehicles to tow them. We already owned If Birmingham is your destination, we and Ryan. They have shared many camping advena 2004 Honda Pilot, which could tow about had a fun weekend at Oak Mountain last tures in the last few years! Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Family Calendar Ongoing: A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an all-inclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-728-1162 or email: momofpnk@gmail.com. Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-7058877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival • Twelfth Night. March 28-30. • Macbeth. Through May 18. • Ethel. Through March 3. • To Kill a Mockingbird. March 8-May 18. Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Montgomery. www.asf.net. Birmingham Children’s Theatre • Three Little Kittens. Through Feb. 22 • Young Abe Lincoln. Feb. 5-22. www.bct123.org. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute Helen Keller Student Art Show of Alabama. Jan. 27 - Feb. 24. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. www.bcri.org. Black History Month Feb. 1-28. Join the National Park Service and Tuskegee University Archives throughout the month for programs that focus on the unique, significant history of Tuskegee Institute/University. www.nps. gov/tuin. Bosom Buddies (a breast cancer support group) Meets at The Health Resource Center the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. (334) 528-1260. www.eamc.org. DeSoto Caverns Park March 18-31. Easter Sound, Light, and Water Show. A special Easter sound, light and water show that commemorates the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ and is shown on every caverns tour. www.desotocarvernpark.com. Expressions of a BraveHeart Program A fine arts program for teens and young adults with special needs (ages 11-21), sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation, utilizing Auburn University faculty and students, as well as community volunteers. Two 30-minute sessions of art, dance/ creative movement and music will be offered and participants will select 2 of the 3 classes. Expressions meets every 2nd and 4th Monday twice a month for 1.5 hours. Opelika Sportsplex, 334.705.5560. www.opelikasportsplex.com. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center Art Gallery Spring Exhibition. March 15-April 16, Auburn. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art Through May 4. Bauhaus Twenty-21 Exhibition. Through May 18. Auburn Collects: Works from the Collection of Dwight and Helen Carlisle Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/ Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that are waiting to adopt are

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welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net for more information. McWane Center • The Ice Age in IMAX. Through May 11. • Animal Grossology. A new exhibit that is oozing with science as you meet some of the slimiest and yuckiest creatures on Earth! Through May 31. Birmingham.www.mcwane.org. Meditation Garden and Labyrinth Come and Find the Quiet Center... in the Meditation Garden and Labyrinth, provided as a community service by Village Christian Church, 700 East University Drive, (across from Auburn Early Ed.). 334-887-5111. Try the practice of walking meditation or simply sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. The garden and labyrinth are always open and guests are always welcome. Montgomery Ballet • Sleeping Beauty. Through March 4. Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. www.montgomeryballet.org. Montgomery Performing Arts • Little Big Town. Feb. 21. • Rodney Carrington. Feb. 22. • The Black Jacket Symphony presents The Doors. Feb. 23. Montgomery Performing Arts. www.mpaconline.org. National Voting Rights Museum and Institute Bridge Crossing Jubilee. Feb. 28-Mar. 4. Selma. www.bcjubilee.org. Newnan Theatre Rabbit Hole. Feb. 14-24. Georgia. www.newnantheatre.org. Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum The Fitzgerald Gala. Feb. 27-Mar. 3. Montgomery. www.fitzgeraldmuseum.net. Sleeping Beauty presented by the Montgomery Ballet Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Feb. 10 - Mar. 4. www.montgomeryballet.org. Springer Opera House • Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience. Feb. 28-Mar. 16. Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org. Telfair Peet Theatre She Loves Me. Feb. 21-March 2. AU Campus. www.auburnuniversitytheatre.org. Theatre AUM The Normal Heart. Feb. 21-24. 334-244-3632. www.aum.edu. Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site Women’s History Month. March 1-31. Free. www.nps.gov/tuin. UniverSoul Circus Through March 3. The Green Lot at Turner Field, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com. Virginia Samford Theatre 9 to 5: The Musical. Jan. 24 - Feb. 10. Birmingham. www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org. Wales West Cottontail Express. Silverhill, Al. Ride the train to the Easter Village for a visit with the Easter Bunny. Hunt eggs in the egg patch and decorate them at the art table. Catch the train for a ride back to the station for refreshments. Sat.-Sun., 1-5 p.m., March 9 - 30. www.waleswest.com.

Parents Support & Moms Groups Auburn Mommies, a fun group of moms in the Auburn/Opelika area that meet weekly for playgroups and Mommy and Me walking twice a week. We also have a Mommies Night Out once a month. Http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ auburnmommiesinalabama/. Auburn Mommy and Me Big Dog Running Co, Auburn. 10-11 a.m. Social time, story time, music/movement, arts & crafts. Ages 9 months-3 yrs. Free! 334-209-2580. Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register. La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. @ CORNERSTONE Family Chiropractic, Airport Plaza, 323 Airport Road Suite E, Auburn. For more information call Josie at 257-3950. Lee County Autism Support Group meets every other month. Call Julie Brown 887-3903 or Florence Evermom 887-5005. Covenant Presbyterian Church on Shelton Mill Road in Auburn. MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids. New website is www.auburnmoms.com. Moms In Touch. Do you worry about your children? Come experience how you can replace your anxiety and fear with peace and hope by praying with other moms. Moms In Touch International gathers moms together for one hour, once a week, to pray specifically and scripturally for our children and school. Won’t you join with us in prayer for this next generation? Please contact Julia Farrow at julia@ cornerstonebuzz.org for information about our local groups. For more information about Moms In Touch International, visit www.MomsInTouch.org. Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama We have 2nd Saturdays, group classes and more. 2nd Saturday of the month, 9-11a.m. at Auburn United Methodist Church. Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@insideyfc.com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com.

Mom’s Morning Out Auburn United Methodist Church, Children’s Day Out Program, every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-12 noon. $10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information. Trinity United Methodist Church (Opelika) Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45-12. $15 per child.

Support Groups Care N’ Share Group Caring for a family member or friend can be rewarding, but it is not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your grandchildren, provide care to your parents or spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn from each other, ways to cope with the everyday stresses of caring for someone you love. We will also give you tools and resources to help you on your journey. Last Monday of each month through November. 7 a.m., or Noon

Advertising: 334-209-0552

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CST (choose the one that works best for you). Registration preferred but not required. This program is supported by the Opelika SportsPlex, Lee-Russell Area Agency on Aging, and Hospice Advantage EAMC. Food Allergy Support of East Alabama The Food Allergy Support of East Alabama group offers support through the sharing of information and resources. We are also working to increase awareness of food allergies in the state of Alabama. For more information, visit our website at www. foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334826-3082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net. GRACE - Post-Abortive Support Group Are you struggling with feelings of regret or sadness from having a pregnancy termination in your past? Do you feel like you can’t share these struggles with anyone? Would you like to find healing and forgiveness? You are not alone. Women’s Hope Medical Clinic wants to help you! You are invited to take part in our GRACE abortion recovery group. This confidential group gives you the opportunity to process the grief of your termination in a safe and non-judgmental setting. If you would like more information about the times, dates and location for this group, call or e-mail Sherry at Women’s Hope: 334.502.7000 or sherry@womenshope.org Don’t let the regret of the past rob you of the joy in the future. Call us today. We are here to help.

Sports Auburn University Baseball Feb. 20, 21, 24, 26, March 1-3, 8-10, 15-17, 19, 28-30. Auburn University Men’s Basketball Feb. 20, Mar. 2, 6. Auburn University Women’s Basketball Feb. 24, Mar. 3 Auburn Equestrian Mar. 29, 30. Auburn University Golf Mar. 11, 12. Auburn University Gymnastics Feb. 22, Mar. 1, 8. Auburn University Softball Feb. 20, March 1-3, 8-10, 15-17, 19, 27. Auburn University Swimming & Diving Jan. 18, 19, 20, 26. Auburn University Tennis Feb. 22, 24, Mar. 1, 3, 16, 22, 24. Auburn University Women’s Tennis Feb. 21, 23, Mar. 8, 10, 29, 31. www.autigers.com Cottonmouths Hockey Feb. 19, 22, Mar. 8, 9, 22, 23. Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter.org.

Tuesday, February 19 10th Annual Southeast Festivals & Events Conference The Hotel at Auburn University. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. www. southeastfestivals.org. Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Free. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Getting Under The Surface (GUTS) Hosted by COSAM. 6 – 8 p.m. Science activity featuring a “Getting Under the Surface” theme designed to demystify the science of topics ranging from DNA to creatures in the deep sea to how batteries work. The mission of GUTS is to enhance science literacy and engagement within our community by providing relevant science activities

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

to students and their parents. Pre-registration is required. www.auburn.edu/cosam/guts. Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink Skate for $3 and free skate rental! 5-7 p.m. www.columbusicerink.org. Hair http://www.eastalabamaarts.org. Opelika Center For The Performing Arts.

Wednesday, February 20 10th Annual Southeast Festivals & Events Conference The Hotel at Auburn University. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. www. southeastfestivals.org.

Thursday, February 21 Live Owl Education Program Dean Rd Rec Center. $12.50 fee. 7:30 p.m. Register by calling 501-2946. Guest Artist Concert 7:30 p.m. Goodwin Music Building Recital Hall, AU Campus. www.auburn.edu. Little Big Town Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. www.ticketmaster.com. Yo Gabba Gabba! Live: Get the Sillies Out! Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com. Crater Days Wetumpka Impact Crater. The greatest natural disaster to ever hit Alabama was caused when a very large meteor hit near the area where the city of Wetumpka now sits. It created quite an impact. First discovered in the mid 1970s, a five-mile wide crater or astrobleme, meaning “star wound” was confirmed in 1998 by Dr. David King Jr., Professor of Geology, Auburn University. www.visitelmoreco.com. AU Theatre presents She Loves Me Telfair Peet Theatre, AU Campus. www.cla.auburn.edu/theatre. Theatre AUM presents The Normal Heart 334-244-3632. www.aum.edu. Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details. 5th Annual Columbus Jewish Film Festival Columbus Public Library. 7-9 p.m. Free.

Friday, February 22 Crater Days See Feb. 21 for details. Near His Heart Lakeview Baptist Church, Auburn. Come enjoy a dinner meant to uplift and encourage families of children with special needs who are near to His heart. All families with children with special needs are invited. Free. 887-3909. Birmingham Ballet Presents: Neverland BJCC. www.bjcc.org. Godspell Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham. www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org. Home Expo Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. www.thegarrettcoliseum.com. AU Theatre presents She Loves Me See Feb. 21 for details. Rodney Carrington Montgomery Performing Arts. www.mpaconline.org. Theatre AUM presents The Normal Heart 334-244-3632. www.aum.edu. Princess and the Sweet Frog Daddy/Daughter Date Night Sweet Frog In the Landings, Columbus. 6-9 p.m. Girls wear your princess dresses. 706-507-6633.

The Mousetrap Family Theatre, Rosehill Baptist Church, 2100 Hamilton Road, Columbus. 7:30 p.m. Adults $10/ Seniors & Military $8/ Students $6. For reservations, please call 706-366-7196.

Saturday, February 23 Lowe’s Build & Grow Clinic Monster Jam Grave Digger. 10 a.m. Free. Opelika. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com. Crater Days See Feb. 21 for details. Young Eagles Day FREE Airplane Rides for Kids! Columbus Airport. Ages 8-17. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-324-2453. VIP Bed Race 2013 Valley Interfaith Promise, Inc hosts VIP Bed Race, Columbus, Ga. 11 a.m. The Race encourages your team to build a bed on wheels, then race your bed (using manpower only) against other teams for awards and prizes. Teams must have a minimum of five people to run the actual race – one rider & four runners to push the bed. The race course is a straight run on 14th Street starting from 1st Avenue to Broadway (at the corner of Country’s BBQ). It is approximately 120 yards long. www.vipbedrace.org. Fancy Nancy Tea Party Mildred Terry Public Library, Columbus. 10:3011:30 a.m.The adorable Fancy Nancy will be all we will talk about at our Fancy Nancy Tea Party! We will read stories, have some tea and make a craft to take home. Junior League Run for the Kitchen 5K & Fun Run Columbus State University River Park. The race will include a 5K, 1 Mile Run/Walk for all ages and a Tot Trot for Toddlers (ages 18m-5yrs). To empower youth to make healthy lifestyle choices and help reverse the growth of childhood obesity and its associated health issues.www.active.com/running/ columbus-ga. Callaway Gardens Winter Farmers Market Robin Lake Beach. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. The Market features a variety of local and regional vendors selling fruits and vegetables, including those grown right here in Callaway Gardens’ own Mr. Cason’s Vegetable Garden; meats and dairy products; baked goods; soaps, sauces and other specialty items; and flowers and plants. Birmingham Ballet Presents: Neverland BJCC. www.bjcc.org. Godspell Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham. www. virginiasamfordtheatre.org. Kids Art Club ‘Cold Art’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 10 a.m. Outdoor event, bring jacket. Preregister. www.jcsm.edu. Home Expo Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. www.thegarrettcoliseum.com. Russell Forest Run Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 7:30 a.m. www.russellforestrun.com. Wilcox Area Chamber Big Fish Crappie Tournament Lake Dannelly, Camden. www.wilcoxareachamber.org. Girls, Glitz and Glamour! Covington Rec Center. Opelika. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. Ages 5-13 yrs. $15. The Black Jacket Symphony presents The Doors Montgomery Performing Arts. www.mpaconline.org. Jeff Bunham Columbus Civic Center. www.ticketmaster.com.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Family Calendar Kid Rock BJCC Arena. www.ticketmaster.com. Ft. Benning Adventure Race 9 a.m. 5 hours long consisting of biking, trekking, paddling, navigation, and mystery events. 706-5057759. Annual Love Your Heart Run & 6th Annual Crank Your Heart Ride Chewacla State Park. 6:15 a.m. 501-2930. Parkerson Mill Creek Showdown Donald E. Davis Arboretum, Auburn. 9 a.m.-noon. www.auburn.edu/arboretum. AU Theatre presents She Loves Me See Feb. 21 for details. Theatre AUM presents The Normal Heart 334-244-3632. www.aum.edu. The Mousetrap See Feb. 22 for details.

Sunday, February 24 Birmingham Ballet Presents: Neverland BJCC. www.bjcc.org. Godspell Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham. www. virginiasamfordtheatre.org. Home Expo Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. www. thegarrettcoliseum.com. Annual Love Your Heart Run & 6th Annual Crank Your Heart Ride Chewacla State Park. 6:15 a.m. 501-2930. Montgomery’s Jewish Food Festival Temple Beth Or. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Free. www.templebethor.net. AU Theatre presents She Loves Me See Feb. 21 for details. Theatre AUM presents The Normal Heart 334-244-3632. www.aum.edu.

Tuesday, February 26 AU Theatre presents She Loves Me See Feb. 21 for details. Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details. Columbus Lions Fan Fest! Columbus Civic Center. 6-9 p.m. Meet the 2013 Columbus Lions and Lady Lions! Autographs, kids fun area, food and play football with the lions. www.columbuslions.net.

Wednesday, February 27 Faculty Recital 7:30 p.m. Goodwin Music Building Recital Hall, AU Campus. www.auburn.edu. The Fitzgerald Gala Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum, Montgomery. www.fitzgeraldmuseum.net. Bon Jovi: Because We Can- The Tour Philips Arena, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. AU Theatre presents She Loves Me See Feb. 21 for details.

Thursday, February 28 Auburn Piano Trio Concert 7:30 p.m. Goodwin Music Building Recital Hall, AU Campus. www.auburn.edu. Fort Benning Golf Scramble Ft. Benning Golf Course, Baltzell Avenue, Ft. Benning. 12 p.m. 706-687-1940. Final day to register for Mud Mania Event scheduled for March 23, Auburn. Mud Mania is a mud drenched outdoor obstacle adventure race fueled by excessive and unreasonable enthusiasm.

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February/March2013

Whether competing alone or on a team, ultimately it is a challenge that will pit your raw grit against the notoriously rugged Alabama mud. www.mud-mania.com. Auburn Classical Academy Open House 8-11 a.m. Offering a four-day program for PreKindergarten through 8th grade. Tour our school, meet and speak with our wonderful teachers, view our curriculum and meet the families of students currently enrolled. www.auburnclassicalacademy. com. Understanding Your Teenager: A Seminar for Parents of Teens and Pre-Teens Epworth United Methodist Church, Phenix City. Presented by Jim Burns, Home Word of AZUSA Pacific University. 6-9 p.m. $10 person/$15 couple. 706-718-4831. Sweet Repeats Consignment Sale Golden Acres Baptist Church, Phenix City. Bridge Crossing Jubilee National Voting Rights Museum and Institute, Selma. www.bcjubilee.org. AU Theatre presents She Loves Me See Feb. 21 for details. The Fitzgerald Gala See Feb. 27 for details. Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details.

Friday, March 1 Monster Nation’s Jurassic Bash Columbus Civic Center. Features some of the toughest monster trucks in the world. www. columbusciviccenter.org. Cottontail’s Village Arts, Crafts, and Gifts Show BJCC, Birmingham. Exhibitors selling original art, hand crafted soaps, jewelry, handmade garden decor and more. Fri., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun., Noon-5 p.m. www.christmasvillagefestival.com/cottontails. Becoming an Outdoors Woman Workshop State 4H CenterWorkshop for women 18 and over offering hands-on instruction in a fun and nonthreatening learning environment. Participants choose from more than 50 courses such as backyard wildlife, rock climbing, camp cooking, map and compass, camping, mountain biking, shooting sports and gun safety, fishing, hunting, canoeing, nature photography, crafts, archery, ATV handling, bird watching, motorboat handling, and more. www. outdooralabama.com. Reload Day for Kids Clothes Connection 3740 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Alabama Dance Theatre’s Spring Concert Davis Theatre for the Performing Arts, Montgomery. www.alabamadancetheatre.com. Friday Night Drop-In Opelika SportsPlex. 7-9:30 p.m. 6th-8th graders. $20 registration, $5 per visit. 705-5560. Opelika Unplugged The Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m. Performance platform for singers and songwriters. $5. www.eventcenterdowntown.net. The Lost Medallion Nationwide release Opens at Carmike 16. Featuring Alex Kendrick, of Courageous and Facing the Giants. Great story of adventure for children ages 8 and up. Adults will love it, too! Call 334-444-2959 for pre-purchasing tickets, or for booking a theater for your group. Sweet Repeats Consignment Sale Golden Acres Baptist Church, Phenix City. The Fitzgerald Gala

See Feb. 27 for details. Bridge Crossing Jubilee See Feb. 28 for details. The Mousetrap See Feb. 22 for details. Guest Bassoon Recital AU Goodwin Recital Hall. Tickets, 844-4165.

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Saturday, March 2

Home & Garden Show at the Trade Center Columbus Trade Center. Free activities for the kids, door prizes, seminars, demonstrations and the first 500 adults receive a free gift bag! Tickets $2 and available at the door. www.conventiontradecenter.com. Run, Walk & Roll Benefit & Mended Hearts Health Fair Providence Baptist Church, Opelika. 8 a.m. 5K and 1 mile fun run, health fair with free screenings, inflatables and more. www.castministries.org. 23rd Annual Colonies of the Gulf Coast Historic Fort Gaines, Dauphin Island. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. A living history day exploring life on the Gulf Coast before the Fort was built. There will be soldiers, pirates, period craftsmen and cannon firing. www.daulphinisland.org. Bark in the Park: Celebrating Responsible Dog Ownership Kiesel Park. 9 a.m.-noon. Free event for all dog owners and their pets. Visit a variety of educational booths, shop with local pet vendors, take advantage of low-cost rabies vaccinations, and enjoy door prizes and dog-friendly activities & crafts all morning. 501-2946. Public Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. LAMOM Consignment Sale First Baptist Church, Hammett Rd, LaGrange. 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. www.lamom.org. Becoming an Outdoors Woman Workshop See March 1 for details. Dr. Seuss’s Birthday McWane Science Center. Birmingham. www.mcwane.org. Monster Nation’s Jurassic Bash See March 1 for details. Cottontail’s Village Arts, Crafts, and Gifts Show See March 1 for details. The Fitzgerald Gala See Feb. 27 for details. Bridge Crossing Jubilee See Feb. 28 for details. The Mousetrap See Feb. 22 for details. Alabama Dance Theatre’s Spring Concert See March 1 for details.

Sunday, March 3 Spring Fling 2013 Spring Villa Park, Opelika. 2-5pm. All Lee County families living with Autism. Luanne Helms, 334-707-0116. Cottontail’s Village Arts, Crafts, and Gifts Show See March 1 for details. The Fitzgerald Gala See Feb. 27 for details. Bridge Crossing Jubilee See Feb. 28 for details. Seaside Half Marathon Seaside, Fl. 7 a.m. www.bigdogrunning.com. Home & Garden Show at the Trade Center See March 2 for details.

Advertising: 334-209-0552

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Alabama Dance Theatre’s Spring Concert See March 1 for details. Becoming an Outdoors Woman Workshop See March 1 for details. Chamber Choir Concert Auburn First Baptist Church. 2:30-4 p.m. Tickets, 844-4165.

Monday, March 4

Rangers in Action demonstration Hurley Hill Demonstration area, Fort Benning. This highly coordinated performance will awe and thrill you as Rangers detonate explosives, jump from helicopters into the water, rappel down and up towers, race down zip lines, and participate in hand to hand combat. 10 a.m. Reload Day for Kids Clothes Connection 3740 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Public Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com.

Tuesday, March 5

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details. Forest Friends Preschool Program Registration The Forest Ecology Preserve, Auburn. 9:30 a.m. Forest Friends is a 6-week, hands-on activities with nature and environmental awareness that begins on Tuesday, April 2 and Friday, April 5. www.fp.auburn.edu/preserve. SaveFirst Tax Preparation Dean Rd Rec Center. SaveFirst will offer free tax preparation to qualifying, low-income individuals and families. Those eligible for an Earned Income Tax Credit refund are encouraged to use this free service. Free to public. www.impactalabama.org. AU Community Orchestra Concert Telfair Peet Theatre. 7:30 p.m. www.auburnuniversitytheatre.org. Public Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com.

Wednesday, March 6

Faculty Percussion Concert AU Goodwin Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, 8444165. Public Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com.

Thursday, March 7

56th Annual Southeastern Livestock Expo/Rodeo Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. www.slerodeo.com. Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details. A Little Lunch Music Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 12 noon. www.jcsm.edu. Faculty Piano Concert AU Goodwin Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, 8444165. Public Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com.

Friday, March 8

56th Annual Southeastern Livestock Expo/Rodeo See March 7 for details. Friday Night Drop-In See March 1 for details.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Fun Night Drop-In Covington Rec, Opelika. 6-8:45 p.m. Ages 3rd-5th graders. $15 registration, $5 per visit. 705-5560. Peachtree Kids Market Peachtree, Ga. www.peachtreekidsmarket.com. Reload Day for Kids Clothes Connection 3740 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Public Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com.

Tuesday, March 12

Saturday, March 9

Birmingham Children’s Theatre presents Sleeping Beauty www.bct123.org. Public Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com.

56th Annual Southeastern Livestock Expo/Rodeo See March 7 for details. March Fantasy Doll and Toy Show/Sale Fairhope Civic Center. Sponsored by the Eastern Shore Doll Study Club of Alabama. 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. 251-980-5958. Birmingham Children’s Theatre presents Sleeping Beauty www.bct123.org. Second Saturday Lee County Historical Society Museum, Loachapoka. 1-3 p.m. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org. Lowe’s Build & Grow Clinic: Monster Jam Truck 10 a.m. Free. Opelika. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com. Indoor Yard Sale Covington Rec. Sell your “treasures” and make a little spending money while helping our local community or come by and shop! 7 a.m.-12 p.m. 705-5560. Free Fun Day of Match Play Auburn Tennis Court. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Free to public with beginners to advanced tennis levels. Ages 7-18 yrs. 501-2922. 4th Annual Fireman’s Bash The Warehouse, Eclectic. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Vendors, children’s rides, and music. 334-541-4429. Public Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Poker Run 5K and Wild Card Ride Columbus, Ga. 8:30 a.m. Raising funds for The Children’s Hospital at The Medical Center. www.bigdogrunning.com. Peachtree Kids Market Peachtree, Ga. www.peachtreekidsmarket.com. Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival BJCC. www.ticketmaster.com. Second Saturday Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 1-3 p.m. www.jcsm.edu. Valdosta-Lowndes Azalea Festival www.azaleafestival.com.

Sunday, March 10

Daylight Savings Time begins. Birmingham Children’s Theatre presents Sleeping Beauty www.bct123.org. Valdosta-Lowndes Azalea Festival www.azaleafestival.com. Moscow Quartet Concert AU Goodwin Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, 8444165.

Monday, March 11

Birmingham Children’s Theatre presents Sleeping Beauty www.bct123.org. Public Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com.

Birmingham Children’s Theatre presents Sleeping Beauty www.bct123.org. Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details. Public Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com.

Wednesday, March 13

Thursday, March 14

Birmingham Children’s Theatre presents Sleeping Beauty www.bct123.org. Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details. Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy Columbus Civic Center, Ga. www.ticketmaster.com. Miranda Lambert Macon. www.ticketmaster.com. 25% Off Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com.

Friday, March 15

Birmingham Children’s Theatre presents Sleeping Beauty www.bct123.org. Friday Night Drop-In See March 1 for details. Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy See March 14 for details. Performing Arts Series-That Puppet Guy Central Activity Center, Phenix City. 7-9 p.m. Eastern Time. www.phenixcityal.us. 50% Off Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Dothan Eagle Home & Garden Expo Dothan Civic Center.www.dothanhomeshow.com. Elton John BJCC, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com. Historic Selma Pilgrimage Vaughan-Smitherman Museum, Selma. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. www.selmapilgrimage.org. 7th Annual Alexander City Rodeo Charles Bailey Sportsplex. 5 p.m. Free. 256-329-6736.

Saturday, March 16

Clean Sweep Rummage Sale Old Johnson Galleries in Opelika behind the Lee County Courthouse at South 10th Street. Sponsored by The Junior League of Lee County. 6am-12noon. Free admission to public. For more info, wlswann@ gmail.com or www.juniorleagueofleecounty.com Harlem Globetrotters Phillips Arena, Ga. www.ticketmaster.com. Birmingham Children’s Theatre presents Sleeping Beauty www.bct123.org. Kids’ Art Club ‘Art go braugh’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 10 a.m. Art Club is open to all students k-12. Art Club sessions are free, but require preregistration. Please call

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Family Calendar 334.844.3486 to preregister. Sessions are open studio so parents are asked to stay at the museum. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Last Day and 50% Off Shopping Day Kids Clothes Connection, Opelika. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Coosa Fest Childersburg Kiwanis Park. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. A celebration of Childersburg’s 473rd birthday celebration featuring grits-eating contest with grits from the Kymulga Grist Mill, live music, arts and crafts, antique car show, and children’s activities. www.childersburg.com Race to Save the Mill Childersburg. 7:30 a.m. www.childersburg.com. 2013 Big Dog St. Patty’s Day 5K Uptown Columbus. 6:30 p.m. www.bigdogrunning.com. Historic Selma Pilgrimage See March 15 for details. Big Run for BigHouse Kiesel Park, Auburn. 8 a.m. 5k and fun run hosted by CrossFit Black Knight to benefit BigHouse Foundation. Runners and Walkers welcome to join us for this event! www.ourbighouse.org. Spring Farm Day Landmark Park, Dothan. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. www.landmarkpark.com. Thunder in the Valley Airshow Columbus Airport. $10 advance tickets; $15 day of the event ticket; $8 advance military ticket; Scouts in Uniform (Adults and Kids) FREE; Children 6 and under FREE. www.thunderinthevalleyairshow.com. Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy See March 14 for details. 7th Annual Alexander City Rodeo Charles Bailey Sportsplex. 5 p.m. Free. 256-329-6736. Dothan Eagle Home & Garden Expo Dothan Civic Center.www.dothanhomeshow.com.

Sunday, March 17 Disney on Ice presents Worlds of Fantasy See March 14 for details. Thunder in the Valley Airshow See March 16 for details.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

February/March2013

Monday, March 18 Travel With Care Week Samford Lawn. Kickoff celebration begins at 10 a.m. An annual transportation safety awareness campaign that promotes safety on the road and courtesy between all modes of transportation, including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists. Free. 501-3029.

Tuesday, March 19 Kids in the Kitchen Covington Rec. Easy hands on spring treats. Ages 5-8 yrs. $8 fee. 3:30-4:30 p.m. 705-5560. Therapeutic Easter Egg Hunt and Cookout Kiesel Park. 6-9 p.m. Come join Auburn Parks and Recreation and the AU chapter of Best Buddies at Kiesel Park for food, fellowship, a visit from the Easter Bunny, and an exciting egg hunt! Bring your entire family, picnic baskets and a side dish. RSVP to 501-2939. Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details.

Wednesday, March 20 Seussical RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Columbus. 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 7 p.m. www.rivercenter.org.

Thursday, March 21 Seussical See March 20 for details. Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details. Celtic Kudzu at the Columbus Museum 8 p.m., www.columbusmuseum.com. Annual Plant Fair and Sale at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. A Little Lunch Music Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 12 noon. www.jcsm.edu. Storytelling Festival White Hall. Tuskegee. Free. www.nps.gov/semo. Evan Lynch Clarinet Recital AU Goodwin Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, 844-4165. ‘BLUE Oceans Film Festival’ Hosted by The College of Liberal Arts and

Department of Communications. Activities include film screenings, talks by renowned conservationists and world filmmaker; as well as a fun filled Saturday afternoon for kids including a short film, games, arts and crafts. For more information please visit the Auburn University Website. We hope to see you and your families there. For more info, 844-4000.

Friday, March 22 Friday Night Drop-In See March 1 for details. Fun Night Drop-In See March 8 for details. ‘BLUE Oceans Film Festival’ See March 21 for details. Annual Plant Fair and Sale at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Fountain City Arts Festival Pratt Park, Prattville. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. www.prattvilleal.gov. Storytelling Festival White Hall. Tuskegee. Free. www.nps.gov/semo. Simba’s Adventure Presented by the Southeast Alabama Dance Company. Dothan. www.southeastalabamadancecompany.org. Elton John Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. www.ticketmaster.com.

Saturday, March 23 Annual Plant Fair and Sale at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Printmaking Class for Children Columbus Museum. www.columbusmuseum.com. ‘BLUE Oceans Film Festival’ See March 21 for details. Mud Mania 2013 8182 County Rd 53, Auburn. 9am-4pm. www.mud-mania.com Color Me Rad 5k Riverfront Park, Columbus. www.colormerad.com. Spring Extravaganza at Fort Benning Lawn of Riverside. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. The Easter Bunny, egg hunt, games, refreshments and more. www.benningmwr.com.

Advertising: 334-209-0552

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Duck Dynasty Star Si Robertson Montgomery Renaissance Convention Center. 7 p.m. 334-386-7257. www.ticketmaster.com. Atlanta Ballet presents New Choreographic Voices Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Mud Mania 8182 County Rd 53, Auburn. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. www.mud-mania.com. Teen Scene Field Trip High Ropes Challenge Meet at Dean Rd Rec Center. 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m. All high elements are 35-40 feet above ground. They include the Burma Bridge, Multi-Swing, Swing Shot, and Zip Line. Ages 12-15yrs. $25 fee. 501-2946. Festival of Alabama Fiber Art Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. www.al-fiberarts.org. 199th Anniversary of the Battle of Horseshoe Bend Horseshoe Bend National Military Park. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. www.nps.gov/hobe. Simba’s Adventure Presented by the Southeast Alabama Dance Company. Dothan. www.southeastalabamadancecompany.org. Fountain City Arts Festival See March 22 for details.

National Infantry Museum, Columbus. 1-4:30 p.m. www.muscogeemoms.com. Simba’s Adventure Presented by the Southeast Alabama Dance Company. Dothan. www.southeastalabamadancecompany.org. AU Gospel Choir Concert The City Church, Auburn. 4 p.m. Tickets, 844-4165.

Saxophone Quartet Concert AU Goodwin Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, 844-4165.

Friday Night Drop-In See March 1 for details. Under Water Egg Hunt Opelika SportsPlex. 6-8 p.m. Ages 6-10 yrs. Hunters of all abilities will have the opportunity to collect weighted eggs from the bottom of the pool and receive treats for their efforts! The Underwater Egg Hunt will occur in varying depths of water to allow participation by all swimming levels. The eggs are recycled back into the pool after each age group. $3 each guest swimmer, free to members. 705-5560. Easter on the Mountain Cheaha State Park. www.alapark.com/cheaharesort. Pajanimals Live! Playdate Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Jerry Seinfeld BJCC, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com. Alicia Keys Philips Arena, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com.

Sunday, March 24

Thursday, March 28

Saturday, March 30

Rodney Carrington RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Columbus. www.rivercenter.org. Annual Plant Fair and Sale at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Kids Camp & Summer Fun Fair 2013

Monday, March 25

Auburn Piano Trio AU Goodwin Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, 8444165.

Tuesday, March 26

Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details. Maroon 5 BJCC. Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com. AU Trumpet Studio Recital AU Goodwin Recital Hall. 7:30 p.m. Tickets, 8444165.

Wednesday, March 27

America’s Got Talent: All Star Tour Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Ga. www.ticketmaster. Great Flashlight Egg Hunt Moore Stadium, Opelika. Hunt for eggs in the dark! Bring a flashlight and a basket! Look for special

prizes and “rock eggs”. Ages 3rd-5th grade. 7:30 p.m. 705-5560. Cheap Skate! Columbus Ice Rink See Feb. 19 for details.

Friday, March 29

Young Eagles Day FREE Airplane Rides for Kids! Columbus Airport. Ages 8-17. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-324-2453. Easter On the Square Downtown Opelika. 10-10:45 a.m.- Egg-tivities;

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Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Family Calendar 10:45 a.m.- The Ultimate Parade; 11:00 a.m.- Super Spectacular Egg Hunt. Children 2nd grade and younger will enjoy Easter arts and crafts on the Square! Make bonnets to wear in the Easter parade, create a sidewalk chalk masterpiece and ride the Easter Express. There will be cotton candy, balloons, face painting, lemonade and visits with the Easter Bunny! All participants must be accompanied by an adult. Over 25,000 eggs to be gathered. Bring your basket! 705-5560. Red, White, & Blue Veterans Run Rotary Park, Columbus. 9 a.m. www.bigdogrunning.com. Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents The Precious Stone, This England RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Columbus. www.rivercenter.org. Uptown’s 2nd Annual Easter Egg Hunt Columbus. 31st Annual Easter Egg Hunt Kiesel Park, Auburn. Bring your family out, along with the biggest Easter Basket you can find, to participate in Auburn’s largest Easter Egg Hunt with more than 25,000 eggs hidden over a four-acre area. The event will include live musical entertainment, free sodas, balloons and more. Ages 12 and under. This event is free! 501-2930. Easter on the Mountain Cheaha State Park. www.alapark.com/cheaharesort. Easter Weekend at Callaway Gardens Egg Hunts at Robin Lake Beach, Sunrise Service and Lunch Buffets. www.callawaygardens.com. Clanton Spring Gun and Knife Expo Clanton Conference & Performing Arts Center. www.fairsandfestivals.net.

February/March2013

Sunday, March 31

Easter Sunday Easter Sunrise Service Stone Mountain Park, Ga. www.stonemountainpark.com. Easter Weekend at Callaway Gardens Egg Hunts at Robin Lake Beach, Sunrise Service and Lunch Buffets. www.callawaygardens.com. Clanton Spring Gun and Knife Expo Clanton Conference & Performing Arts Center. www.fairsandfestivals.net.

Looking Ahead...

April 4-6. 106th Annual Veterinary Conference AU Vet School. www.vetmed.auburn.edu. April 5-6. Spring Fling & Outdoor Expo Crooked Oaks Farm, 768 Red Creek Rd, Notasulga. Sponsored by Auburn University School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences. Silent and live auction, demonstrations from Auburn University’s EcoDogs and Raptor Center, tours of Quail Hollow Gardens and of Pat Dye’s home, an appearance by Aubie and a dinner accompanied by live music and dancing. Tickets for Friday, 844-2719. Saturday, open to the public, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., $5 admission. April 6. Garden in the Park Municipal Park, Opelika. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. FREE! This arts and craft style event will feature a variety of vendors, children’s activities and entertainment. www.keepopelikabeautiful.com. April 6. 2013 Amphibious Warrior Mud Run The Great American Park, Auburn.jtc0014@ tigermail.auburn.edu. April 12. On The Tracks Downtown Opelika. 6 p.m.-midnight. www.onthetracks.org.

April 13. We Love Our Cause Community Tailgating Cook Off Ag Heritage Park, AU Campus. Sponsored by Prewett Insurance Group. 2-6 p.m. An afternoon of family fun for a great cause. www.weloveourcause.com. April 13. Bike Bash 2013 Chewacla State Park, Auburn. Sponsored by The City of Auburn and the Auburn Bicycle Committee. www.auburnalabama.org. April 13. 48th Annual Alpha Psi Rodeo An amateur rodeo with multiple events consist of bull riding, bronco riding, calf-roping, calf-wrestling, and tug of war. www.alphapsirodeo.com. April 18. Dancing Stars of East Alabama The Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m. Teams of professional dancers and local stars will battle it out on the dance floor to benefit the Child Advocacy Center of East Alabama. Hors d’oeuvres included with tickets/sponsorships. www.dancingstarsofeastalabama.com. April 20. Final Toomer’s Oaks Roll and Celebrate the Tradition Block Party Toomer’s Corner, Downtown Auburn. April 20. Auburn Football A-Day Spring Game April 27. Auburn CityFest Kiesel Park. www.auburncityfest.com.

Please send your calendar events to kendra @auburnopelikaparents.com by the 5th of the month. It’s FREE!

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

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Erica Mayberry Erin Edwards Erron Mayberry Fatima Barron Gabrielle Johnson Garrin Bean Garrison Grimes Gloria Jayne Caridad Greydon Grimes Gwen Lehmkuhl Hannah Bazinaw Hannah Brooks Hannah Wilkerson Hayden Holt Haynes Keesee Heinrich Weikart Henry Strickland Holland Eaton Hudson Smith Hunter Clayton Hunter Cooper Hunter Meadows Hunter Wright Ian Foreman Imari Starks Indiah Williams Isaiah Crapp Isaiah Smith Izzie Williams Ja’Nia Pierson Ja’Vel Strickland Jaaliyah Thomas JaBrien Taylor Jackson Neighbors

Jada Finley Jada Grimes Jaden Hill Jaden Jackson Jaken Dowdell Jakena Dowdell Jalyrica Murph JaMarius K. Pace James Hume Jamyah Dorman Jaquavious Adams Jared Nelson Jasmine Finley Jasmine Heptinstall Jason Blair Garrett Jason Woods Javion Bush Jayda Coleman Jayden Rosier Jazmine Cooper Jeffrey Gourdine Jemison Rice Jenna Ammons Jennifer Hernandez Jeremiah Pierson Jericuse Coleman Jesse Dutton Jessica Casteel Jillian Meadows Joel Tatum Johnnie Taylor Jonathan Barnett Joseph Solano Joshua Kim Julia Karaca Justin Barnett Justin Levett Kaese Davis Kalayria Dinkins Kaleb Pirtle Kaleb Williams Kaleigh Jenkins Kamariah Finley KaMauri Drisker Kamori Finley Kan Miller

Karson Brown Kate Seale Katelyn Downey Katelyn Frazier Katie McClain Kaycie Hill Kayden Aadil Kaylee Zickafoose Kaylin Lee Kellia Menefee Kelly Harman Kenly Yeager Kevin Karaca Keyonna Willis KhaLeah Gartrell Khalia Core Kiley Brooks Kim Harman Kimberly Mendoza Kimora Avery Kingston Hughley Kiptyn Mumma Knox Lane Kody Atkinson Kyle Harman Kyle Hugley Kylia Dickey Kylie Stroud La’Miracle Drive Lakezia Williams Lamarius Hughley LaMeriyah Harris LaMeshia Todd Lara E. Altindal Larry Marbury LaVarious Fergerson Leland Sehnert Leslie Paschal Lexi Richey Liam Weikart Lily Simpson Logan Johnson Logan Watson Logan Wright Lorenzo Valentine Lucas Hu

Lucy Zuniga Luke Donaldson Mac Lancaster Madison Preston Makaveli Infante Malachi Nelson Marco A. Vazquez Marjorie Zuniga Markell Wagner MarQue Wynn Mary Burkhalter Mary Hugley Masa Miller Mason Lehmkuhl Matthew Mask Matthew Rainwater May Saysombath Mayrin Escobar McKinley St. John Melissa Kessler Memkphis Butler Meredith Voyles Messiah Houston Michael Burgess III Michael Garcia Michael Kavon Dowdell Michael Turner Mijuael Dowdell MiKayla Dubovecky Mitchell Walker II Morgan Kitchens Morgan Nestor Morgan Paschal Morgan Watts Myja Butler Myles Foreman Myonna Riley Naomi Beasley Nathan Robinson Nia Wilson Nicole Seale Noah Merrels Nolan Hansen Nykeria Johnson O’layiah Barrow

Olivia Kahn Olivia Schwendeler Olivia Seale Oscar Strickland Owen Browning Owen Zapp Parker Boutwell Parker Williams Peyton Eaton Praylier Reinhardt Promise Strickland Qua’Shawn Satterwhite Quintrell Williams Rankin Williams Reagan Butler Reagan Moore Riley Reetz Robert Cole Robert Pack Rolya’T Taylor Ronald Harris Ryan Donaldson Ryan Mitchell Rylan Miller Sage Carter Sally Stanley Sara Beth Kahn Savannah Britt Savannah Luse Serenity Shuman Shakeva Kelly Shamiracle Dunn Shaniya Johnson Sharon Jeong Shawna-Kay Cunningham Shi’Miracle Madden Sierra Watson Skyler Gilmore Skyler Luse Sofia Foradori Somchai Saysombath Sophia Pastor Sophia Simpson Sophie Burditt Stella Lane

Stephanie Randolph Stephen Aidan Allen Treadwell Suhyun Son Tamea Johnson Tamrah Tucker Tanner Bailey Tate Dark Taylor Byrd Taylor Neighbors Terrence Brown, Jr Timothy Starks, Jr Toccara Jones Tonya Mathis Tremell Williams Treston Boler Trinity Taylor Trip Yordy Ty’Zavious Dunn Tyler Large TyQuavious Wagner Tyrone Hollis Valeria Reyes Vandrious Madden Vince Hume Violet Sakalaukus Virginia Lawrence Walker Zapp Warner McDonald Wesson Swader William Holloway William Pack William Sindo Wilson Slocumb Wynn Cleveland Z’Cari Bynum Zachary Beasley II ZaKariyah Joiner Zalexius Williams ZaNikja Brinkley Zaria Perry Zaria Peters Zavion Wagner Zaydin Dowdell Zyion Shaw Zyuna Ross

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Parenting

on the Plains by Dr. Polly Dunn

Parenting on Autopilot Before I had kids of my own, I had a vision of what kind of parent I’d be. Let me tell you, in my dreams I was some kind of awesome! Fifteen years and four kids later, I’ve fallen short of those expectations more times than I care to count. But you know what? That’s okay. I’m human, and if there’s one thing I know, it’s that there’s no perfection in parenting. Even though I’ve given up on my dreams of being a perfect parent, I still try my best to be a good one. Despite that, I’ve developed a nasty habit of turning my parenting skills on autopilot on a pretty routine basis. Look it up in the dictionary, and you’ll find that being on autopilot is “a cognitive state in which you act without self-awareness.” Uh oh. Sounds awfully familiar. What is Autopilot Parenting? Autopilot parenting happens when we go through our days without being fully aware of what’s going on around us and specifically in our interactions with our kids. We set a parenting goal of just surviving the day, rather than striving to be actively engaged with our children. Don’t get me wrong, sometimes we all have days when we do a little victory dance just because we made it to bedtime. But that shouldn’t be how we feel about every day. Instead, more days than not we need to be intentional and aware in our interactions with our children. My worst autopilot parenting trap is the computer. Email. Blogs. Facebook. Twitter. Pinterest. Pretty easy to tune out the kids with those online distractions to tune in to! My most frequent response to my kids when I’m on the computer is “in a minute.” Most of the time when I say it I don’t even look up to pay attention to what they’ve asked. My response just comes right out of my mouth automatically, to buy me a few more minutes on the computer. But truthfully, it’s more important to look my kids in the eye, hear their request, and then respond to them appropriately than it is to automatically respond “in a minute.” Take my advice, when I’ve said Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

“in a minute” to my kids on autopilot and without truly listening, I’ve agreed to some pretty ridiculous things. Honestly I once said “in a minute” when my daughter asked for a cookie for breakfast! That was a wake up call for this autopilot mom. Getting out of Autopilot. If you think about it, there are probably lots of situations where you find yourself parenting on autopilot. Driving. Cooking. Cleaning. Homework. Bedtime. You name it and as parents we can shift into autopilot so fast we don’t even realize it. Luckily, it’s just as easy to get out of autopilot as it is to get into it: First, actively listen to what your children say. When they talk, look them in the eye and respond in a way that shows you’re listening. Be eager to engage them in a conversation.

Next, vary up your routines with your kids so that you’re less likely to zone out. Drive a different route. Take a walk around the block. Put away the electronics. Just make it different. And finally, be on the lookout for autopilot traps. If you have the ability to notice them, then you can come up with a game plan to avoid them. Dr. Polly Dunn received her Ph.D. from Auburn University in 1999. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and currently serves as the Director of the Auburn University Psychological Services Center, a position she has held for over ten years. Dr. Dunn is also the founder of www.ChildPsychMom.com where she blogs about what works and what doesn’t in her hectic life as a child psychologist, wife, and mom of four.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

Safe Haven

Snitch

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: C+ Language: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated Safe Haven PG-13 for thematic material involving threatening behavior, and for violence and sexuality. If you’re looking for a romance movie, any based on a Nicholas Sparks book is sure to be the next best thing to tying a tow truck to your heartstrings. This Valentine’s Day (2013) his novel Safe Haven has been adapted for the big screen. Julianne Hough plays Katie, a woman who is running away from something serious enough that she has a police detective trying to keep up with her. Hopping a bus to Atlanta she ends up in the city of Southport, North Carolina. The cozy coastal community is populated with laid back townsfolk who enjoy visiting and eating at the always-busy fish shack. Reeling in a job there Katie determines to become invisible and begin a new life. However Alex (Josh Duhamel), the manager of the local general store, can’t help but notice the attractive blonde. Likely the town’s most eligible widower, Alex is confused at Katie’s initial offish response when he tries to lay down the welcome mat. But his offers of assistance with the newcomer’s fixer-upper residence and his daughter’s (Mimi Kirkland) gregarious personality soon melt Katie’s concerns. And that’s when the audience gets what they came to see -- a love story embellished with beautiful oceanfront scenery and quaint village locations. However while the young couple is cavorting in the sunshine (and in the bedroom during one short scene of non-explicit sexual activity) viewers are also made aware of Katie’s dark and dangerous past. Her previous abusive relationship is a pretty predictable plot twist, so hopefully it is not much of a spoiler to reveal the film contains depictions of domestic violence, including verbal and physical fighting, a stabbing (with some blood effects), arson, gun threats and perilous situations. Aside from the aforementioned portrayals, the only other content concerns are a few profanities, infrequent scatological slang and terms of deity. While these inclusions may give parents some reasons to question the film’s appropriateness for their teens, no one familiar with Nicholas Sparks’ work needs wonder about what to expect. Safe Haven delivers the sort of sappy ending his stories are famous for. And this movie wraps it up with good performances and beautiful photography, which is sure to please most sentimentalists.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: AViolence: CSexual Content: ALanguage: C Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Snitch PG-13 for drug content and sequences of violence. If you have kids you’ll find yourself saying, “Don’t do it!” for the first 15 minutes of this movie. Sadly Jason Collins (Rafi Gavron) doesn’t heed that advice when a buddy asks if he can accept for him a package that contains illegal drugs. Upon opening the box Jason is immediately arrested by narcotics agents and faces ten years in prison under minimum sentencing laws. His father, John (Dwayne Johnson), runs a trucking company and is a prominent businessman in their Missouri city. He is determines to find a way to get his son out of jail sooner, especially as the young man has no prior criminal record. However his meeting with the local DA (Susan Sarandon) is akin to hitting a brick wall. The only hope for a reduced sentence is if Jason snitches on another acquaintance and secures a conviction. Refusing to do what his friend did to him, Jason begins his decade of incarceration. Unwilling to accept the situation, and further motivated after seeing his son’s bruised and lacerated face from a prison scuffle, John offers the DA a deal she can’t refuse: He will lead her to a major dealer and in return she will free his son. The problem is this father doesn’t have a clue about how the drug trade operates, let alone knows how to integrate into the system as an undercover informant. For help he turns to Daniel (Jon Berthal), an employee at his company, who was convicted for a similar offense and is now in the midst of putting his life back in order. After John offers him a large cash incentive the ex-con reluctantly accepts and the pair begins the dangerous mission. What this movie does best is putting the audience in a nearly continual state of anxiety while watching this father trying to undo his son’s stupidity. It aptly demonstrates how simply agreeing to participate in a drug exchange can destroy not only one life but also an entire family. Whether this moralistic agenda is the primary focus of Snitch is debatable. The film appears to be critical of minimum sentencing legislation too, and how a young person’s life can be destroyed by a single foolish blunder -- especially after being setup by a friend who is desperate to have a sentence commuted. Yet no matter your opinion, the story is bound to stimulate conversation and provide an opportunity for parents to explain the heady consequences attached to illegal drugs. Marketed as an action film Snitch delivers the goods with excellent performances (this may be Johnson’s best role yet) and an intelligent script with an important message.

What Parents Need To Know About Safe Haven...

What Parents need to know about Snitch...

Violence: Violent confrontations involving guns and fists. Characters are punched, beaten, and shot -- sometimes fatally (with some blood shown). Vehicles are driven in a dangerous way on public roads and are deliberately crashed into each other causing accidents that involving other innocent people. A young man, assaulted while in prison, is seen with wounds on his face. Sexual Content: A man is seen without a shirt -- his body covered in tattoos. Language: About two-dozen profanities are used, including scatological curses and terms of deity. Alcohol / Drug Use: The plot is centered on illegal drug use, but drugs are portrayed as a negative choice and serious consequences are included for those who participate in trafficking them. One scene shows a man being forced to sniff a small amount of cocaine from a knife.

Violence: Brief scenes of serious domestic disputes between a man and a woman include verbal arguments, physical altercations, choking and stabbing (with blood effects). A character pours gasoline on a building that later bursts into flames while a child is inside. A man pushes a woman to the ground and threatens her with a gun, and a character is shot. Sexual Content: An unmarried man and woman kiss passionately. Sexual activity is depicted with non-explicit images of the couples’ backs and sides. Language: Three scatological curses are used, along with a few terms of deity. Drugs/Alcohol: An undeclared alcoholic is frequently seen drinking, including while driving. Intoxication leads a character to commit violent acts. Auburn-Opelika Parents I March 2013

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