Auburn Opelika Parents April 2017 by KeepSharing

April2017

Volume 8 Number 2

Columns 2

Publisher’s Note Kendra Sumner

Living With Children John Rosemond

Growing Up Online

Say Hello to Healthy Goodbyes

Find advice for negotiating separation anxiety better with toddlers.

With so many young ones using technology, find out the most creative apps for creative kids.

Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

A Page in a Book

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Gerry Paige Smith

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

Choosing a Daycare

Learn 10 important questions to ask before selecting where to place your child for care.

Child Care Guide

Our 2017 listing of Lee County daycares and preschools will get you started in your search.

Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover

Departments

Natalie Woody, daughter of Lamar and Kristina

Woody, is quite an energetic three year old. She

Bits and Pieces

enjoys playing at MyGym (Auburn), spending time at the park, and learning new sports. Singing and dancing are by far Natalie’s favorite activities. She has been attending Growing Room Childcare Center for a little over a year, and there she participates in their weekly music class led by her father. Natalie is looking forward to Spring bringing warmer weather and a visit

School Bits 44

Calendar 52

Movie Reviews

from the Easter bunny!

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Publisher’sNote It’s spring time on The Plains and everything is blooming, growing and coming out of hibernation. The flowers and trees are full of pastel colors as far as the eye can see. The birds are hatching and baby animals are exploring the world for the first time. Spring is a time for renewal and new beginnings. Families, like mine, are excited about new adventures in the warm sunshine and in the community. Whether you are new to the Auburn/Opelika area or a native, our April calendar is a great place to start when planning an adventure of your own. This month, there are a variety of arts and crafts shows here and a day trip away. One that never disappoints is the annual CityFest hosted by The City of Auburn Parks and Recreation. Mark your calendar for April 29 at Kiesel Park, Auburn. This year’s event will be bigger and better than ever with more than 100 vendors, food, kids activities and much more! Also, Opelika’s Garden in the Park is May 6 at Municipal Park, Opelika. The festival features homegrown and homemade art, entertainment and more! A day in the park sounds perfect. Check out our calendar and Bits & Pieces section for all the springtime events and activities that will get your family out of hibernation and into nature this spring. Spring is also a great time to be thinking about your family’s child care needs for the upcoming summer and fall. When that final school bell rings in May, many parents need a place that can care for their children during the summer months. This month’s magazine is dedicated to the area’s child care centers and preschool programs. In the 2017 Child Care Directory, included are all the local child care resources, where parents can begin their research for that perfect fit. Also, included is a feature article, 10 Questions to Ask Before Choosing a Daycare, which offers great tips on how to decide where to place your child this summer and fall. One point to consider is, ‘how often will my child get to play outside?’ It is very important that kids get outdoors and enjoy the spring and summer air, explore in nature and burn energy. If you place this as a top priority, ask this question while touring your top child care centers. Another question to ask might be, ‘what activities will my child do?’ Are you looking for a particular curriculum or style of teaching? Maybe you want your child exposed to the arts such as music, dramatic play and hands on crafts. The author suggest that making a list of your family’s top priorities wanted in a summer child care program can help you narrow down the right one as you are visiting centers. Finally, don’t forget to ask yourself if you are comfortable in the daycare environment. Our parenting instincts, often times, tell us all we need to know and can be spot on when making important decisions. Is all this reading about how to choose the perfect child care center causing anxiety? It is normal to have nerves around placing your children under someone else’s care. Not only do parents get nervous, but our kids can get anxious about separation from home and his parents too. Or, if you are like me, the separation anxiety was worse for me than my kids. All four of my children attended a preschool program. I can remember the nerves like it was yesterday. My child was excited about the new adventures, but didn’t want me to leave. Of course, I really didn’t want to leave them either, especially knowing they were upset. You would think that by the fourth one, I would handle this better. Nope! Porter (and his mom) are preschool drop outs! I am the perfect example of how not to leave children at daycare. Included this month is an article, Say Hello to Healthy Goodbyes: Navigating Separation Anxiety Better. The author points out that sneaking out when your daughter isn’t looking is not a good idea (mental note made). An alternative could be to come up with a goodbye ritual such as a mom/daughter handshake and hug that is repeated each morning. Also, make sure it is a low stress goodbye, where mom’s emotions are in check or even fake it until you are back to the car. Check out some other great goodbye tips in the article. I sure could have used these ideas with my kids! Welcome Spring...you have been greatly missed. Here’s to getting back into nature and having fresh air fun. Hope this April is your best yet!

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

Auburn Opelika 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 Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Sandra Gordon Mark Gregston Carolyn Jabs Dave Ramsey Michele Ranard, M.Ed. John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Katie Wolter, M.D. Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

President Jason Watson Director of Sales Justin Sumner (334) 209-0552 Ad Design Tim Welch

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 2016 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.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Nip “High Self-Esteem Seizures” in the Bud Q:

My 30-month-old has started throwing tantrums when I do not give her or do for her what she wants. During her fits, she cries, screams, tries to hit and even bite me, and then, if I prevent her from hitting me, will hit herself. My mother says this needs to be nipped in the bud. She recommends spanking. I say my daughter really doesn’t know what she’s doing and is too young to be disciplined for this. I’m also concerned about her self-hitting. What do you say?

A: I say your mother is right. But then again, I disagree with her concerning her recommendation that you spank your daughter when she has a tantrum. By the way, I prefer to call them “high self-esteem seizures” because they are the rage of the naturally narcissistic child at having someone—a parent, usually—refuse to immediately satisfy his or her unquenchable lust for entitlement. First, your daughter’s tantrums are kneejerk reactions; nonetheless, she is a highly intelligent member of a self-aware species.

Don’t confuse “she cannot explain what she is doing” with “she does not know what she is doing.” Believe me, she knows what she is doing. She is trying to get her way and she believes that becoming an emotional volcano will accomplish that objective. You’ve probably given in a time or two, haven’t you? Yes, you have! Fact: If a parent gives in to one tantrum out of twenty, twenty more are instantly loaded into the clip. Second, you would do well to nip these seizures in the bud, or bloom, whatever the case may now be. As I said, however, I do not recommend spanking. I have no problem with spankings per se (research done by objective people does not find psychological harm—and even finds benefit—when spankings are infrequent and hand-administered by loving parents), but when the issue is a toddler’s tantrums they are not likely to accomplish anything. Third, your daughter’s self-hitting does not merit concern. As you make clear, she does not hit herself randomly but only when you prevent her from hitting you. Under

3 the circumstances, her self-abuse is what is known as a “displacement.” Also, she probably saw that hitting herself provoked a reaction from you, so she persists. Fourth, the most effective means of nipping these seizures in the bud or bloom is to assign them to a designated tantrum place. When our daughter Amy was this age and her sense of entitlement got the best of her, my wife and/or I simply directed her or dragged her kicking and screaming to her very special tantrum room—the downstairs half-bath. We put her in, told her that this was the only room in the home where tantrums were allowed, encouraged her to scream to her little heart’s content, closed the door, and walked away. For what usually was less than a minute, Amy would scream, shriek, kick and pound the door, and otherwise go completely berserk. Then she would become silent and, we assumed, sulk. Then she would emerge, go straight to her room and begin entertaining herself as if nothing had happened. In short, tantrums are no big deal unless allowed to become a big deal. With that in mind, nip away! Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

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plan

Zika virus is transmitted to people primarily through the bite of infected mosquitoes. These mosquitoes typically lay eggs in and near standing water in items such as buckets, bowls, animal dishes, flower pots and vases.

1. Stay informed

2. Learn about basic injury and disease prevention 3. Look for the most current information on emergency preparedness 4. Create a family preparedness plan 5. Become familiar with the emergency plans of your community

prepare store essential items Water Food Can Opener First Aid Kit Flashlight

Radio Clothes Personal Care Items Important Documents

Avoid the Bite! You can help prevent the spread of Zika and other mosquito-borne diseases by preventing mosquito bites and breeding. For the most up-to-date information on Zika Virus and other mosquito-borne diseases in Alabama, visit www.adph.org/mosquito or call 1-800-252-1818.

practice Practice and review your preparedness plan every six months Plan. prepare. practice.

http://www.adph.org

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K-12 Art Club at Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art

Our ever-popular spring art club series continues for 2017! Using an animal theme and the works in the Louise Hauss and David Brent Miller Audubon Galleries for inspiration, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll be doing some printmaking this day and finishing off our works with watercolor paints. Grownups are asked to join in the fun and remain with their child for the project. Please register to guarantee a space and materials. K-12 Art Clubs are supported in part by a City of Auburn K-12 Education Grant. April 23, 1:30-3:00 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Bo Bikes Bama 2017

Mark your calendars for the 6th annual Bo Bikes Bama, April 29. Our annual silent auction will be held the evening before the ride, on April 28th at The Red Barn at Ag Heritage Park on the campus of Auburn University. We offer 60- and 20-mile routes.

Music & Miracles Superfest Saturday, April 22!

Jordan-Hare Stadium, Auburn. The Music & Miracles Superfest, which will benefit the Chicken Salad Chick Foundation, will feature performances by Kelsea Ballerini, Thomas Rhett, Blake Shelton and a special appearance by Lynard Skynard. Tickets can be purchased at www.musicandmiracles.com. Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

Underwater Egg Hunt!

Grab your swimsuits and jump in on April 14! Egg 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 hunt occurs in varying depths of water to allow participation by all swimming levels. The eggs are recycled back into the pool after being retrieved by the youth for a never ending supply of eggs. Thanks you for your support to ensure no eggs are thrown back into the pool by patrons. Opelika Sportplex Pool. Free for members and $4 per guest. Ages 6-10 years. 6:00 p.m. www.opelikasportsplex.com.

Old-Time Music Festival

The 9th Annual Lee County Gathering Old-Time Music Festival will be on April 27-30 at Pioneer Park in Loachapoka, Al. The event will feature instructors Tom Spicer, Bob Taunton, and Danny and Dottie Shepard. There will be instruction for the mountain dulcimer, hammered dulcimer, bass, penny whistle, autoharp, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, ukelele, sacred harp singing, Native American flute, clogging, spirituals and more! For more information call (334) 887-3007 or email lchs1968@hotmail.com.

Downtown Opelikaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s First Friday: April 7 On the First Friday of each month, downtown Opelika shops will stay open until 8 p.m. so that diners of our downtown restaurants can shop before or after they eat. This is a great opportunity for those that work during retail hours to see what the Downtown shops have to offer. There will also be entertainment on street corners for everyone's enjoyment. 6

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Easter on the Square Downtown Opelika

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Unique & Spectacular Egg-tivities for children second grade and under! April 15, come out for an old fashioned good time. Events include Eggtivities at 10:00 a.m. Easter arts and crafts! Take a ride on the Easter Express, create a sidewalk chalk masterpiece or make a bonnet to wear in the Easter parade. Visits with the Easter Bunny! The Easter Parade at 10:45 a.m. Join the Easter Bunny and the Easter Chicken for an old fashioned parade around Courthouse Square. Show off bonnets and other Easter crafts as you take this traditional stroll while anticipating the Egg Hunt! An adult must accompany all parade participants. Giant Egg Hunt at 11:00 a.m. Children 2nd grade and under are invited to join the fun and search for eggs at Courthouse Square. Sections are provided for Toddlers, Pre-School and School age children. Over 25,000 eggs to be gathered! www.opelikasportsplex.com

36th Annual Easter Egg Hunt Sponsored by Wells Fargo

On April 15, celebrate spring at the 36th Annual Easter Egg Hunt, sponsored by Wells Fargo and Auburn Parks and Recreation, at beautiful Kiesel Park. This hunt is one of the largest 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. The Easter Bunny will be available for photos after the Egg Hunt. Come join us for some great musical entertainment, free sodas and balloons, and a chance to meet the Easter Bunny! And don’t forget to purchase a hamburger or hotdog from the Kiwanis Club of Greater Auburn. All proceeds raised will be given to needy families throughout our community. Please remember to arrive early to find parking and your child’s correct age group. The first age group will START at 10:30 a.m. sharp! Egg Hunt Start times will be staggered by age group. 3 & under Hunt @ 10:30 a.m. • 4-6 Hunt @ 10:45 a.m. 7-9 Hunt @ 11 a.m. • 10-12 Hunt @ 11:15 a.m. ahall@auburnalabama.org.

Auburn Football A-Day

Auburn’s annual spring scrimmage continues to move up the calendar with every passing year. The Tigers will participate in their earliest public scrimmage yet in the last five years with its 2017 A-Day set for April 8. Auburn usually charges fans $5 to attend the scrimmage inside Jordan-Hare Stadium. www.auburntigers.com.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Tips for Flying with Children With summer coming soon, many families will be embarking on travel. Traveling with children can be a delight and a challenge.The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) has the following tips for safe and stress-free family travel. • Allow your family extra time to get through security - especially when traveling with younger children. • Have children wear shoes and outer layers of clothing that are easy to take off for security screening. Children younger than 12 years are not required to remove their shoes for routine screening. • Strollers can be brought through airport security and gate-checked to make travel with small children easier. • Talk with your children about the security screening process before coming to the airport. Let them know that bags (backpack, dolls, etc.) must be put in the X‑ray machine and will come out the other end and be returned to them. • Discuss the fact that it’s against the law to make threats such as, “I have a bomb in my

bag.” Threats made jokingly (even by a child) can delay the entire family and could result in fines. • Arrange to have a car safety seat at your destination or bring your own along. Airlines will typically allow families to bring a child’s car safety seat as an extra luggage item with no additional luggage expense. • When traveling on an airplane, a child is best protected when properly restrained in a car safety seat appropriate for the age, weight and height of the child. Children who weigh more than 40 lbs can use the aircraft seat belt. The car safety seat should have a label noting that it is FAA-approved. Belt-positioning booster seats cannot be used on airplanes, but they can be checked as luggage (usually fees) for use in rental cars and taxis. • Although the FAA allows children under age 2 to be held on an adult’s lap, the AAP recommends that families explore options to ensure that each child has her own seat. If it is not feasible to purchase a ticket for a small child, try to select a flight that is likely to have empty seats where your child could ride buckled in her car safety seat.

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• Pack a bag of toys and snacks to keep your child occupied during the flight. • In order to decrease ear pain during descent, encourage your infant to nurse or suck on a bottle. Older children can try chewing gum or drinking liquids with a straw. • Wash hands frequently, and consider bringing hand-washing gel and disinfectant wipes to prevent illnesses during travel. • Consult your pediatrician before flying with a newborn or infant who has chronic heart or lung problems or with upper or lower respiratory symptoms. • Consult your pediatrician if flying within 2 weeks of an episode of an ear infection or ear surgery. Travel Safety Tips. American Academy of Pediatrics. https:// www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/news-features-and-safety-tips/Pages/Travel-Safety-Tips.aspx

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Dr. Katie Wolter is board certified in Pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, and the American Medical Association. She is passionate about breastfeeding medicine and is currently working on becoming an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant). She is also a member of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. Dr. Wolter is married to her husband, Jeremy, and has four sons. She loves to spend her free time outdoors with her family and friends.

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Schools Career Tech Month:Autauga County Career Tech Month: AgriConstruction This program explores plant and animal systems, agriscience, metal Television Production fabrication, and construction.

This program shows students how to research, interview, video, edit, and produce works for television. Course material teaches students how to work within the production industry and allows real-world experiences that are televised throughout the Auburn Community.

Course materials offer students the opportunity to earn several industry recognized credentials: Beef Quality Assurance, Pork Quality Assurance, Hunter Safety, and NCCER.

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Career Tech Month: Manufacturing

Career Tech Month: Hospitality and Tourism

This program prepares students for high skilled, in-demand jobs in our community. Course work provides students with the basic conceptual and operational knowledge of manufacturing and the skills necessary to operate industry grade equipment and tools. Students can earn the industry recognized NIMS credential.

This program covers management, marketing, and operations in the hospitality and tourism industry. Course material covers culinary arts, meal and event planning and food safety and sanitation. Students have the opportunity to earn an industry recognized credential (Servsafe) while enrolled in the program.

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Learning About Aquaculture During Career Tech Month

Career Tech Month: Army JROTC

This program provides students with opportunities to develop in responsible leadership roles and appreciate the ethical values and principles that underlie good citizenship.

This program explores aquaculture, aquatic biology, and fisheries technology and allows students the opportunity to work on meaningful projects that benefit our community. Course material prepares students to work in the fields of fisheries. Students in this program have the opportunity to earn two industry recognized credentials: ATOLL and Alabama Water Watch. 9

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Autauga County Schools

The Vigilance Group Teaches Self-Defense Techniques to Auburn City Schools

Mayor Reads to Yarbrough 4th Grade Classes

On March 1, Moose Moore and Barb Jordan with The Vigilance Group put on a selfdefense seminar using practical knowledge such as being loud, being rude and striking an attacker where they are most vulnerable. In other words, strategy and being aware are more important than strength! ACS students got the opportunity to ask questions and even put what they were learning to use on "Bob the Dummy."

Mayor Ham came to Yarbrough Elementary for National Read Aloud Day and read to Mrs. Zutter's and Mrs. Oprandy's 4th grade classes.

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Wrights Mill Road Elementary Students Learn the Heimlich Maneuver

Signing Day at AEEC

Auburn Early Education Center celebrated Dr. Kelly Hollingsworth pursuing her dream of becoming a college professor. AEEC is saddened by the departure, but excited for Dr. Hollingsworth as she will embark on her journey in August as a Professor of Elementary Music Education at Baylor University in Waco, Texas. Kelly has been teaching since 2000 and came on board at Auburn City Schools in 2004 as a kindergarten music teacher at AEEC before stints at Richland and Cary Woods Elementary Schools and returning to AEEC in 2014.

Wrights Mill Road Elementary students in the Health Heroes Club learned from Hank and Heidi the Heimlich Heroes! Recently ACS Nurse RISING Kâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;2ND GRADERS Administrator SATURDAYS, 10â&#x20AC;&#x201C;11:30 AM Brenda Lindahl was able to purchase materials to help with educating students on the proper mechanics and importance of the Heimlich Maneuver. WMR is piloting the Health Heroes Club this year with the supervision of Nurse Kristina Woody. Students in the club will also be learning about hands-only CPR technique, emergency situation awareness and since February is American Heart Month, they will also be talking about and making some heart-healthy snacks.

2016-17 Opelika HS Emissaries

The 2016-17 Opelika High School Emissaries have served as official hosts and hostesses for many events and activities at OHS this year. The members were selected following a nomination and interview process with OHS faculty members. Pictured (l-r): Abigail Miller, Barrett Whitman, Will Overstreet, Hope Harris, Ivori Davis, Emma Grace Scullen, Frank Wright, Georgia White, Allen Alcantara, RaKavius Chambers, Sam Herring, Tristan Black, Sarah Noon, Dr. Farrell Seymore-OHS Principal, and Alicia Peralta. Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

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Wacoochee Elementary Science Fair

The Wacoochee Elementary School Science Fair was held January 26th. Autumn Gary and Madison Lane conducted a behavioral science study on the best way to practice shooting basketball free throws. Conner McAlister's aquaponics project fell into the engineering category, and Abbi Taylor, Kelsi Clotfelter, and Kimberly Merritt's experiment was on heat absorption. Autumn and Madison's project will advance to GEARSEF in March. Congratulations to all participants on a job well done! The students are pictured with their Science teacher, Mrs. Sharon Sasser. (Not pictured Kimberly Merritt).

Aquaculture in Auburn

Stan Arington took a group of his aquaculture-science students to Auburn University's E.W. Shell Fisheries Center on North College to act as a focus group for the new Visitor Learning Center. These students have excelled in the classroom and were asked to come in to give their feedback on the addition that was less than two-weeks old. While on-site, Dr. Tetsuzan Benny Ron filmed the students interacting with the displays and Extension Specialist Dr. David Cline for promotional material to be shared on YouTube and the non-profit Aquaculture Hub (learn more: http://www.aquaculturehub.org). The Fisheries is open to the public and classroom field trip M-F 8 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4 p.m., and the fish market is open on Saturdays 8 a.m. to noon for all your catfish (live or filet), tilapia (live or filet) and shrimp (frozen) needs. Pictured, Stan Arington, Aquaculture instructor at Auburn High is on the far left in the blue shirt and khaki pants. Dr. David Cline, Extension Specialist at AU's EW Shell Fisheries on North College, is in the bright orange Auburn Shirt. Dr. Benny Ron is in the Auburn Hat kneeling and he is an aquaculture professor from the University of Hawaii (Manoa) that has built a relationship with Arington and Cline while running the non-profit Aquaculture Hub. The others photographed are AHS Students.

JCSM is temporarily closing for museum improvements beginning in May.

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In the meantime, you can enjoy sculpture along the Lethander Art Path and in the Susan Phillips Gardens.

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Autauga County Schools

Congrats to Auburn HS Science Olympiad Team

AHS competed in the Regional Science Olympiad competition at UAB and placed first in 20 out of the 23 events earning them 1st Place overall!

Leadership Luncheon at Kitchen 3810

Morris Avenue Intermediate School's Student Council members and Team Ambassadors have been working on general soft skills as well as social and dining etiquette. They were given an opportunity to practice these skills in a real-world setting during a leadership luncheon at Kitchen 3810.

Character Day at Carver Elementary

Pizza, Parents, and PTO Math Night at Wrights Mill Road

Pictured are Carver Kindergarten teachers Jordan Drummond (Daisy Head Maisy) and Ta Williams ( Horton Hears a Who) for Character Day for Read Across America!

Pizza, Parents, and PTO Family Math Night is one of the best nights of the year at Wrights Mill Road. Hundreds of students and their families joined to fellowship, shop the book fair, showcase their math skills, and win lots of great door prizes!

Career Day at Carver Primary

Ms. T. Williams' Kindergartners dress up for Career Day at Carver Primary!

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Talking Like Pirates at Auburn Early Education Center

The first graders at AEEC have been talking like Pirates as theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve studied words with /ar/.... They sure arrrrre SMARRRRRRRT!

Medal of Honor Recipient Speaks to Trinity Students

ng d On February 9, Trinity was honored to have Medal of Honor Recipient Command Sergeant Major Bennie Adkins speak to our 7-12th graders in chapel! We are very thankful for his service to our country!

Please send school news and photos to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

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Autauga County Schools

Read America Week at Cary Woods Elementary

Read America week was a big hit at Cary Woods Elementary School. Throughout the school week, students were encouraged to dress in fun ways such as Mixed up Monday and Wacky Sock Wednesday. On Thursday, they dressed as their favorite storybook characters and paraded in front of the school, while parents and teachers cheered them on. A special guest that visited and read a story to these first graders was Miss Auburn-Opelika!

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Please send school news to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

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Trinity Christian School Honor Society Sponsors Blood Drive

On February 8, the Trinity Honor Society sponsored a blood drive with LifeSouth. Several students, teachers, and parents participated in this event!

www.auburn.edu/cosam/sciencematters Science Matters is a summer enrichment program sponsored by the College of Sciences and Mathematics at Auburn University for students in rising grades 1 - 8. The program offers youngsters a supercharged science experience. Kids will explore the world of science through real experiments, technology and art projects, and hands-on activities. Kids that show a high interest or aptitude in science, math, or technology-related subjects will be right at home as they design and build, dabble in the art of chemistry, and more! Science Matters offers five different science-themed weeks for students throughout the summer. All programs operate between 8am - 4pm daily. Courses fill on a first-come-first-serve basis and availability is limited! For more information, visit our website or contact: www.auburn.edu/cosam/sciencematters Kristen Bond: kristen.bond@auburn.edu 334-844-5769 Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

2017 Dates June 5-9

June 19-23

June 26-30

July 17-July 21 July 24-28

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Opelike High Theatre Society Wins Awards at Southeastern Theatre Conference

Congratulations to the Opelika High Theatre Society for winning Best Makeup Design and to Peyton Brown and Wesley Herring for being named to the All-Star Cast at the Southeastern Theatre Conference (SETC) in Lexington, KY. Following the win at the State Trumbauer Festival in December, OHTS was nominated to represent the state of Alabama at SETC.

Chamber of Commerce Hosts FACES Reception for Auburn City Schools

The Chamber of Commerce hosted the 2017 FACES reception for Auburn City Schools! More than 100 folks gather to recognize the 11 Teachers of the Year within the school system as well as the 73 different teachers and principals who wrote and received grant money for their classroom projects. Kristina Passi at Drake Middle School was awarded the Carol Pittard Award and the newly introduced Dianne Wilson Award went to Dr. Bruce Zutter and Teresa Schier for writing the top grants! All of these grants are made possible through the generosity of the parents, teachers and community of Auburn City Schools! A special thank you to Dr. Joel Pittard and Dr. Trent Wilson and their families for their generosity. FACES (Foundation for Auburn's Continuing Enrichment in Schools) is the Foundation organization partnering with Auburn City Schools to provide resources for innovative classroom opportunities for students.

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Autauga County Schools

Read Across America at Carver

Roaring 20's Day at Opelika Middle School

Students at Carver Primary School had a blast during Read Across America Week. They had dress up days and a special visit from Aubie!

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Sixth grade students at Opelika Middle School celebrated the 1920's by dressing up and sitting in the rumble seat of a 1928 Model A Ford.

Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: Kendra@aopmagazine.com.

Trinity Band Students Selected for District Honor Band and All-State Band

A number of Trinity band students prepared throughout the fall for the rigorous audition that would determine their selection for the Alabama Bandmasters Association District VI Honor Band and for the Alabama AllState Bands. These students competed against other musicians from all over our district, and Trinity is pleased to have had 16 students selected for District Honor Band and six students selected for All-State Band.

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Senator Visits Auburn HS Government Class

Alabama Senator Tom Whatley stopped by Auburn High School to talk with Mr. Sweeneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 12th grade US Government Students about how the State Government works in relations to the Federal Government.

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Google Expedition Kits Debut at West Forest Intermediate

Teachers at West Forest Intermediate School were recently trained how to use the new Google Expeditions kits. Students will be able to use this new tool to explore Google’s world of virtual reality.

Northside Presents the Leadership Live Museum

HE ONCE BEAT HIS DAD FOUR STRAIGHT GAMES IN CHESS. AFTERWARD, HE CELEBRATED WITH SOME ORANGE SLICES AND A BOOK ABOUT WIZARDS. and at Children’s of Alabama we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential. That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine.

C H I L D R E N A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY

1600 7TH AVENUE SOUTH BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 ChildrensAL.org

5th grade students at Northside Intermediate School presented the Leadership Live Museum earlier this month. Students dressed up as historical figures and informed audiences about each character. The students did presentations for classmates during school and for parents and guests that night. MontgmeryParents_COA_HeadlineAd_Chess.indd 1

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Ogletree Elementary Geography Bee Winner Cooper Fain, Ogletree's Geography Bee Champion, has qualified to participate in the state National Geographic Geography Bee at Samford University on March 31! Pictured is Cooper with Venture Instructor Dr. Marcia Webb.

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K.I.S.S. Day at Wrights Mill Road

Autauga County Schools

Students enjoyed lunch with their special guests at Wrights Mill Road ‘s annual “K.I.S.S.” Day. Love was definitely in the air!

Learning About George Washington at Yarbrough

It was an important day for Yarbrough fifth graders! They presented their reenlistment decisions to General George Washington amid the difficult conditions of the Winter of 1777-1778 in Valley Forge. General Washington was thankful to hear the impassioned pleas of his soldiers.

Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: Kendra@aopmagazine.com.

Wacoochee Students View Funeral Procession of Veteran

Students at Wacoochee Elementary School were honored to be able to witness the funeral procession of Lt. General Hal Moore as it passed through Salem on Highway 280 on its way to Fort Benning.

Auburn HS Girls’ Varsity Tennis Team Wins First Place in Tournament in Dothan Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

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Springwood Scholars Bowl Team Wins 6th Consecutive AISA State Championship

The Springwood Scholars Bowl team won their 6th straight AISA State Championship at Huntingdon College in Montgomery. The number one seeded Wildcats were one of eight teams to advance to the state tournament. Senior captain Venu Reddy was honored as the high individual scorer of the tournament. Springwood went undefeated in pool play defeating Hooper (485-90), Lee-Scott (500-145), and Patrician (580-130). In the final championship match, the surging Wildcats overwhelmed Bayside from Daphne, (465-215) to claim the state title. Springwood coach Warren Nolen commented, "I've always stressed to my teams that there's only one way you measure greatness...and that's by winning championships. Venu, Ananth, Anica, Kari, and Simon continued that tradition of excellence by earning another state title. It certainly helps when you have a nationally ranked individual scorer like Venu leading the way. He's definitely the heart and soul of the team." The win should give the Wildcats a high seed at the ASCA State Tournament in Birmingham on April 7th. Also, for the fourth straight year Springwood has qualified for NAQT Nationals at the Atlanta Marriott Marquis on May 26th-28th. Team members are (l-r): Kari Sims (daughter of Curt and Danita Sims of Lanett), Anica Choi (daughter of Ben and Eunjoo Wilcox of West Point), Simon He (son of Bilin and Jan He of Lanett), Ananth Reddy, and Venu Reddy (both sons of Kris and Usha Reddy of Lanett).

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Congrats! Auburn HS's JROTC PT Team took First Place at the Sidney Lanier Drill Meet!

TAKE YOUR SWING

TO THE NEXT LEVEL Grand National is offering golf clinics this summer for junior golfers, ages 7-17, taught by PGA Certified pros. The clinics will be held in three, Monday – Thursday sessions from 8:30-11:30 a.m. SESSION 1: June 5-8 · SESSION 2: June 19-22 SESSION 3: July 31-August 3 · $100 PER SESSION Lunch and a free Par 3 round are included each day. » FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER, CALL 334.749.9042. «

THE ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL AT GRAND NATIONAL 3000 Robert Trent Jones Trail · Opelika, AL 36801 facebook.com/rtjgrandnational · rtjgolf.com

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Autauga County Schools To Be or Not To Be

The National Thespian Honor Society lead by Dr. Scaife is ready to compete at Pelham High School.

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Please send your school news and photos to: kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com.

Auburn High School Holds World’s Fair

The 2nd Annual Auburn High School World’s Fair was held with several hundred folks in attendance celebrating the diversity within the Auburn High School student body and the Auburn Community as a whole! Think "EPCOT comes to AHS," only the countries are representative of cultures and nationalities in our community. Guests received "Passports" that could be stamped at each stop within the "World Marketplace,” where a variety of cuisines, clothing, musical instruments and talent were on display. Auburn City Schools has 40+ different languages spoken in the homes of students and the fair hosted 20 different countries. A special thank you for Auburn Global from Auburn University and all the families for coming out to support this event!

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Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

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Yarbrough Cheers on Auburn High School Boys Basketball Team

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Our Yarbrough Knights gave a great send off to the Auburn High School Boys Basketball Team as they head to Birmingham for the Final Four!

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Respect Visitors to Trinity Christian School are impressed by the culture of mutual respect that permeates our school both in and out of the classroom.

A Classical and Christian Academy 745-2464

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The Vigilance Group Visits Auburn City Schools

Moose Moore and Barb Jordan with The Vigilance Group put on a self-defense seminar using practical knowledge such as being loud, being rude and striking an attacker where they are most vulnerable. In other words, strategy and being aware are more important than strength! ACS students got the opportunity to ask questions and even put what they were learning to use on "Bob the Dummy."

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Autauga County Schools

Sammy Miller and the Congregation at Morris Avenue Intermediate

Sammy Miller and the Congregation performed "joyful jazz" with students at Morris Avenue Intermediate School (pictured), West Forest Intermediate School and Opelika High School during a recent visit to Opelika to perform for the East Alabama Arts Performance Series.

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Auburn City Schools Celebrates World Read Aloud Day

Auburn City Schools celebrated #WorldReadAloudDay in a variety of ways. Some schools had local celebrity readers and others came up with unique ways for kids to read with one another such as "camping out" in the hallways sharing books. One special celebrity was Aubie! Mrs. Handley’s first graders heard books all about tigers…Waaaarrr Eagle, Hey! On World Read Aloud Day, readers of all ages celebrate literacy and the joy and power of reading aloud. Thank you to everyone who took time out of their day to come read aloud to our students!

Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: Kendra@aopmagazine.com.

Trinity Students Visit National Civil War Naval Museum

Auburn Rotary Club Donates Dictionaries to Wrights Mill Road Students

Trinity 10th and 11th graders visited the National Civil War Naval Museum in Columbus, GA on Friday, Feb. 10 to finish up their study of the Civil War! They took the "Sailor’s Guided Tour” where they were led through the museum by a docent who dressed like a typical Civil War Sailor and spoke on battles, types of ships, clothes, food, and weapons of the time. Of great interest was getting to view remnants of the CSS Chattahoochee, a Southern warship destroyed and sunk by the Union in 1863 and raised in 1963. The students were very interested in the many authentic artifacts that the museum presented!

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Wrights Mill Road thanks the Auburn Rotary Club for their generous gift of dictionaries for each 3rd grade student. What a treasure of knowledge they hold in their hands! Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

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Auburn Classical Academy 6th Grader Named Geographic Bee State Semifinalist

Brenden Bryant, son of Jeff and Steffani Bryant, a 6th grader at Auburn Classical Academy was named one of the semifinalists eligible to compete in the 2017 Alabama National Geographic State Bee. The contest will be held at Samford University on Friday, March 31, 2017. This is the second level of the National Geographic Bee competition, which is now in its 29th year. School Bees were held in schools with fourth- through eighth-grade students throughout the state to determine each school champion. School champions then took a qualifying test, which they submitted to the National Geographic Society. The National Geographic Society has invited up to 100 of the top-scoring students in each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense Dependents Schools and U.S. territories to compete in the State Bees. Each state champion will receive $100, the National Geographic Concise Atlas of the World, 4th Edition and a trip to Washington, D.C., to represent their state in the National Geographic Bee Championship to be held at National Geographic Society headquarters, May 14-17, 2017. The national champion will receive a $50,000 college scholarship, a lifetime membership in the Society, including a subscription to National Geographic magazine, and an all-expenses paid Lindblad expedition to the Galรกpagos Islands aboard the new National Geographic Endeavour ll. Travel for the trip is provided by Lindblad Expeditions and National Geographic. Visit www.natgeobee.org for more information on the National Geographic Bee. The National Geographic Channel and Nat Geo WILD will air the 2017 National Geographic Bee Championship, moderated by journalist and humorist Mo Rocca, on Friday, May 19, at 8 p.m. ET. Public television stations will broadcast the final round at a later date. Check local television listings for the air date and time in your area.

Auburn City Schools Teachers Named Funds for Foods Grant Winners

This year, we are proud to announce our Funds for Food winners! Each winner received a $100 grant to help increase nutrition education in Auburn City Schools classrooms. ACS CNP looks forward to seeing nutrition-based activities in their classrooms. Have a healthy day! Congratulations to: Robyn Hunter - CWES; Meaghan Kimbrell - CWES; Ashley McHugh - CWES; Allie Studdard - CWES; Andrea Newman - DRES; Charles Cooper - PES; Nancy Chastonay - RES; Erica Jones - RES; Kasey Shepherd - RES; Amber Goolsby - WMR; Shay Baugh - YES; Shannon Brandt - YES; Katie Lindsey - YES. 23

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Autauga County Schools

Award-Winning Author Visits Wacoochee Elementary

Wacoochee Elementary students were visited by award-winning author Jo S. Kittinger. She spoke to students about the writing process, autographed books, and was able to eat lunch with students and discuss aspects of being an author. The visit by Kittinger was in conjunction with Read Across America festivities that were held all week long.

Read Aloud Day at Wrights Mill Road Elementary

Wrights Mill Road celebrated Word Read Aloud Day on February 16th by sharing wonderful books with their EAGLES teams.

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Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

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Springwood School Students Get Opportunity to Job Shadow

During Interim days at Springwood School, senior students had the opportunity to job shadow in a variety of fields throughout the community. Springwood's 29 seniors participated in 49 overall job shadowing experiences. Students, Caroline Linch and McLane Martin, having an interest in journalism, spent their days in Columbus at two television news stations, WLTZ 38 and WRBL News 3. In the top picture, shown with the WLTZ news crew is Caroline (center) along with Springwood High School Administrator David Owen (left), who is a resident of Opelika. In the bottom picture, Springwood senior, McLane Martin (center) is pictured with the WRBL News Anchors.

ACC Students Finish 1st Science Olympiad Event

Auburn Classical Academy wants to congratulate our students, Annalee Adams (6th grade) and Will Bladen (3rd grade) on their 1st place finish in the Simple Machines event at the Elementary Science Olympiad on Saturday, February 4! â&#x20AC;&#x153;But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.â&#x20AC;? 1 Corinthians 15:57 (NIV). 25

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Autauga County Schools

Auburn City Schools Holds Financial Literacy Fair for 6th Graders

Dr. Sarah Stanwick, professor in the School of Accountancy partnered with Dr. Silvia Scaife at Drake Middle School to bring a Financial Literacy Fair to 6th graders in Auburn City Schools! This is now the sixth year students get the opportunity to take advantage of knowledge of how to look at and manage money properly. The Fair had a number of lesson-learning activities, in addition to balancing checkbooks and learning about debit/credit cards and/or making change, students also learned the "secrets of the dollar bill." Students learned about budgeting around the city of Auburn using a hypothetical

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$100. Would they rather save it for a toy or clothes? Would they want to use it for movies or going out to eat?

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Congrats to Auburn HS Girl’s Golf Team

The AHS Girls' Golf team won the Auburn Invitational at Indian Pines!

2320 MOORES MILL ROAD, SUITE. 250 AUBURN, AL 36830 • (334) 887-0099

Congratulations to the Liles Smiles no cavity winners!

WUINTRELL WILLIAMS

TANNER RUSHING

AUSTIN FRALIC

HANNAH BROOKS

SHELBY LEWIS

KODY GRIFFIN

ETHAN REDDICK

CHARLES FRALIC

KILEY BROOKS

GRAYDON LEWIS

COREY GRIFFIN

HALLE KIRKLAND

DYLAN SIMS

BRAYDEN BROOKS

CHARLES WARE

EVE LANCASTER

PORTER KIRKLAND

MARIA FERNANDEZ

MONTRAVIOUS POOLE

CHARLIE PLACEK

CALEB JENKINS

HENRY VAUGHAN

JAYDEN JOHNSON

LAYLA JERNIGAN

ISABELLA SMITH

KYLEE GRAYS

OWEN VAUGHAN

JAYCEE MORAN

KYARA COPELAND

ELOISE HOVEN

HAN LE

DEVIN THOMAS

KENNETH ROBERTS

QUINTON COPELAND

TAYLOR STEEN

LORENZO VALENTINE

GRACIE WILLETT

PARKER RISNER

DONOVAN SPARKS

HUDSON ADAMS

MAKAYLA KALTREIDER

COLT DAVIS

BRYSON FULFORD

KATHERYN STEEN

EPHRAIM VALENTINE

MARK BAZZELL

KAILEY FREEMAN

LEONARDO HERNANDEZ

LOUIS SIMS

DJ WILKERSON

KENDALL HYDE

KELSEY MCNEIL

THOMAS STEEN

PARKER PALMER

JEFF BAZZELL

EASTON SLAUGHTER

ELZABETH BURGESS

EVELYN SIMS

ALAINA WHITE

HUNTER HYDE

HENLEY BICE

STEWART YARBROUGH

MARIA CATERINE CHAHINE

PRICE TRAWICK

IDEN WHITE

JOHN FREEMAN

JOHN TAYLOR HENRY

JACORI CORE

ETHAN KEY

BRODY BICE

CRAWFORD REIFF

DAVID VESEY

FISCHER PRINCE

CARTER MAE MEADOWS

JANNIE FREEMAN

BENNETT HENRY

SHAMIRACLE DUNN

OWEN COBB

ANNA KATE SCHUTT

ZAHRAA KALALAH

GRACE TRAWICK

SADIE PRINCE

INGRAM LEAF

ELIJAH SHEALEY

CORABETH HENRY

EMILY MCCUMSEY

JUDE COBB

ETHAN ROBINSON

EMILIA MAY

ANGEL CRIM

CADEN NORRIS

CASSIE LEAF

JAVEN DOWDELL

WAVERLY NICHOLS

TAYLA GUTHRIE

ISABELLA MCINTYRE

BARON KALE PICKERIN

DAKAREY DUBOSE

ISAIAH CRIM

BRAYLEN CROWE

TAYLON TREADWELL

KYRON SAMUEL

EVANGELINE KERR

ARIBELLA GUTHRIE

TATUM HAMILTON

ZANE PLACE

ARIANA O’NEILL

MALIK MILES

JANIE HUMPHRIES

TYDRICK TREADWELL

RYLAN ROOPE

KYLIN JONES

ANTHONY LOPEZ

JENNIFER BARNES

ZANDER PLACE

XAVIER O’NEILL

AILAYAH CLARK

ANSLEIGH BRYANT

LILA DAHL-RUIZ

RYLEIGH GANN

KADIN JONES

TYRICA GILES

TY PATTERSON

SARAH HOLDERFIELD

ABBIGAIL BAILEY

JAIVION MORRIS

ANNE KATHERINE CORLEY

OLIVIA MEADOWS

HEATH JOINER

LIAM TRAVIS

PAISLEY KIRK

ARMIAH CHILDS

MASON HALE

JOSHUA WAGONER

TRINITY JOHNSON

MARY CHARLES CORLEY

A’YANAN CARSON

MAURICE SPIVEY

AHNAYAH PRESTON

KENDALL ALLEN

JAVONTA BELLAMY

MAKENZIE HALE

JORDAN WAGONER

SERINITY JOHNSON

MARCUS TAYLOR

MAKILAH PENDLETON

CHRISTOPHER SIMS

MADISON PRESTON

YASMINE SPEIGHTS

AYDEN BELLAMY

MAKINLEY MUNNENYN

KATIE SALINAS

BALEIGH ANNA HARRIS

DYLAN TAPLEY

NICHOLAS PENDLETON

ZACH SIMS

ELIAS HIJAS

ASHLYNN GAITHER

CALEB STALLER

COLTON HAMAN

DANICA CARMACK

MARY ELIZABETH HADLEY

OMARRIUS PENDLETON

CAMEIA ASKEW

JAXON HOLLOWAY-LEVERETTE

JA’LYRICA FORD

CARSON LUKER

CHRISTIAN BROOKS

HUDSON SPEIGNER

ARYA ADHIKARI

TREMOZES FOREMAN

AMARRI JUKES

AARON KINCAID

JADA FINLEY

JHAKARI CARTER

ETHAN WALDROP

GRAHAM WILLETT

AUBREE MITCHUM

ZAMORA PENDLETON

CORDREIUS WILSON

GAVEN RUSHING

JASMINE FINLEY

MYLES FOREMAN

HARPER MARTIN

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

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Trinity Class Samples Unmarked Rations

During their study of World War II, Mrs. Sistrunk's 7th grade class at Trinity had the opportunity to test out some "K Rations," including Spam! There are definitely mixed reactions to these unmarked cans of food, but they certainly had a good time trying something new!

Wrights Mill Road Students Enjoy Afterschool Clubs

Gardening, Legos, art, volleyball, Rubix cubes and more could be found at the Wrights Mill Road Spring Clubs this month. Students enjoyed these afterschool times to find new passions and new friendships. Pictured are the gardening and Legos clubs.

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A Page in a Book Home is Where the Heart Is Every child’s home is unique. Some kids live in spacious places with bedrooms of their own. Many children share their home with extended family, experiencing cozier quarters. Others split their days between two places that they call home. The places that children call home don’t always have the same footprint. While lodgings come in a variety of shapes, sizes and settings, the things that make them into our homes are indefinable. The following titles explore alternate living spaces and the ways that children claim those spaces, making them into their own unique home.

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Stella’s Starliner

By Rosemary Wells (Candlewick Press) Stella’s home is a marvelous wonder. A gleaming silver house on wheels, it has cozy hiding spots and a sofa that transforms into a bed with a push of a button. Stella’s house has everything her family needs and she loves every bit of it. But then some neighborhood weasels mock her silver home, calling it a tin can, asking her if she’s poor because she lives in a trailer. The words hurt so much that Stella can’t even tell her mama. But when the truth comes out, Mama and Daddy use the opportunity to show Stella what their home can really be. As the shining silver Starliner treks through the night, readers will find a new appreciation for the special aspects of our own lodgings that make them a treasured home to us.

The House on Dirty-Third Street

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By Jo S. Kittinger, Illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez (Peachtree) A young girl is dismayed as she looks at the houses on Thirty-Third Street where her mother has bought a “starting over” for them. Their new home is the shabbiest of them all; run-down, full of trash and so dirty that she wants to call it the house on ‘Dirty-Third Street.’ Mother and daughter work long and hard to clean and repair it, but the enormous task of bringing the house back from the brink is beginning to overwhelm them. When their vision of transformation is unexpectedly embraced by others, they discover there are many small ways to save a damaged house and turn it into a real home. “The House on Dirty-Third Street’ is an inspiring testament to family and faith creating a powerful foundation for every home.

Ella

By Mallory Kasdan, Illustrated by Marcos Chin (Scholastic Press) For little Ella, living in a hotel comes with as many adventures as there are rooms. In this cheeky, updated parody of the classic children’s book “Eloise”, readers are taken along on a delightfully manic exploration of Ella’s daily life as an urban dweller at The Local Hotel. The tour is viewed through Ella’s lens as the people and practices filling her days are introduced in random order. As Ella reveals the things that make her happy at her hotel home, the reader gets a growing insight into the truly fabulous life she enjoys at The Local. Celebrating the meaningful small moments that shine in such a broad environment, “Ella” highlights the connections that anchor her personal home within a populated space. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

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I know you’re big on bargains and saving money. How do you feel about warehouse clubs, like Costco and Sam’s Club?

A. We have both of those in our neighborhood, and I’m a big fan. There are definitely some good buys and great bargains to be had in places like that. To be honest, my wife is probably a bigger fan than I am. I suspect we save more money from her trips than mine to those spots. I will advise you to watch your spending carefully in warehouse clubs. Most people overbuy in situations like that, especially those of us who are spenders by nature. Believe it or not, I’m a spender by

nature. To this day, if I’m not careful, I’m still bad about buying things I don’t need – or too much of the things I do need – in warehouse clubs. Have fun in there, and make sure you find some steals on smart things you can stock up on. Just don’t go crazy and wreck your budget by overspending!

Q. When it comes to making a will, would it suffice to sit down and write it all out on a piece of paper, then have it notarized? A. I would never advise someone to write their own will, unless, of course,

they’re an attorney in that state. Laws can vary from state to state, and some states may not look upon a document like that as being official under law. Some even require witnesses, and a notary might not be good enough. If you’re trying to save money by doing it this way, I would strongly urge you to look at involving a lawyer as an investment. In most cases, having a reputable lawyer draw up a legally correct, state-specific will doesn’t cost a lot of money. At the very least, go online to USLegalForms.com. They have all kinds of state-specific legal forms, including wills. Your last will and testament is one of the most important legal documents you’ll ever be part of. Please don’t try to do this yourself. I’ve run into so many families who, in the midst of grieving the loss of a loved one, were handed a handwritten piece of paper that wouldn’t hold up in court. That kind of thing just adds more stress to an already heartbreaking situation.

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

All Due Respect From Your Teen The late Rodney Dangerfield’s “I get no respect” jokes were pretty funny. But it isn’t a laughing matter when a teenager becomes disrespectful to a parent. While disrespect from a teenager can be demeaning and confusing to parents, it actually brings more harm to the child by tearing at the very fabric of their future. It may be rooted in an authority figure showing disrespect to the child. Or, the child could be imitating the disrespect they see exhibited by their peers or other family members – including their parents. I’d never say that you can force your child to respect you. But treating someone respectfully is altogether different. It is a controllable choice regardless of one’s opinion of that person. In other words, I may not agree with someone who holds a high office, or has an idea that I don’t like, but I can still treat them respectfully. Yes, it is easier and better for your teen to treat you respectfully if they actually feel respect for you. But, in fact, showing respect should have nothing to do with how they feel about you at the moment. A teenager’s disrespectful behavior can range from facial glares to obscene gestures; from mouthing off to fits of uncontrolled rage; from taking things without asking to outright stealing or destroying property. Often, disrespect flows from a demanding attitude for the parents’ time, money, privacy, feelings or property, and it usually starts out in insignificant ways. But even small expressions of disrespect are never acceptable. If a parent doesn’t intervene when the issues are small, disrespect can become part of your child’s permanent mindset, with behavior that gets worse over time. Years ago, our son was a month away from high school graduation when my wife and I went away for the weekend. When we returned from our travel, I knew the moment I entered our home that something wasn’t quite the same as when we’d left. When I questioned him, he insisted that nothing happened while we were away, and Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

that he had followed the house rules, just as we requested. According to him, the weekend was just like any other. But, I sensed something otherwise! I could tell a crowd had been in our home, against the instructions to our son for what was to happen or not happen while we were gone. I felt like “Papa Bear” coming home to find that someone had roamed through the house — eating our porridge, sleeping in our beds, and wreaking havoc on our furniture. I felt it, because it happened. As a matter of fact, I learned that about forty kids were in our home that weekend. They played in the whirlpool, ate our food, emptied the cupboards, and tracked mud throughout the house. They broke my stereo system, played with our computers and searched through our drawers and closets. My privacy was violated, and our desires for what should and should not happen in our home were trashed. I wasn’t too happy with my son. Because I work with teens, and feel I understand them fairly well, the major issue for me wasn’t that a group of kids got together to have some outrageous fun at my house. That kind of thing happens all the time. The big deal for me was disrespect; my belongings were missing, and my son allowed unfamiliar friends to ignore what he and I had supposedly agreed upon. People I didn’t know invaded my space, intruded on my privacy, and even stole from me. The whole escapade was disrespectful, and a violation of my boundaries. I realized that if I didn’t want the same thing to happen again, then my wife and I needed to reinforce and strengthen the boundaries for our son.

What Do Boundaries Have to Do With Respect?

Boundaries are like fences. They define your space, and tell others where they can and cannot go in a relationship. A good analogy comes from keeping horses…if a horse breaks through the fence, it is the responsibility of the fence-maker to build it stronger. A good fence helps both the horse and his 30

owner to live in safety and harmony. Likewise, when personal boundaries are violated, it’s time to reinforce some relational fences. Here are some of the boundaries in our home that were violated by our son that weekend: 1) We will treat one another’s feelings, property and privacy with respect. 2) We will not lie, cheat or spread falsehoods. 3) We will not allow underage drinking, smoking or explicit activities in our home. 4) We will not allow others in our home without a parent’s knowledge and approval. After the “weekend” incident, my son spent a few days cleaning up the mess in our home and in our yard. Moreover, he learned he could not make a mess of our relationship by allowing disrespect to become part of his thinking and behavior. He learned again about our boundaries and paid the consequences for breaking down those fences. In the end, our relationship grew stronger because we worked on it together. Why is respect so important? It’s because respect is the cornerstone for discipline and relationships in the home. All else fails or gets short-circuited in teaching a child about maturity and responsibility when they don’t understand the concept of respect. When parents require respectful behavior, it helps the teen to be more respectful of others, and that’s a cornerstone for success in his life. Respect must be a pivotal boundary in your home, so make it clear to your children that you are serious about it by backing up your words with stiff consequences for any form of disrespect. Then, be sure to follow through on those consequences, since they will undoubtedly be tested. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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Those first days of school or daycare can be a doozy for young children and parents when it’s time to say goodbye. While separation anxiety is a natural part of development, a parent’s response to it is critical for children to make healthy transitions and begin to trust caregivers and teachers. Parenting coach Liz Warrick says there are definite no-no’s when it comes to saying goodbye as outlined below. Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

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Bye-Bye Don’ts 1. Don’t sneak away. It’s tempting. But the disappearing act actually creates more fear in your child and does not help your child learn the important ritual of saying goodbye. 2. Don’t ask: “Is it ok for mom to leave now?” Um. Bet I can guess the response, and there really is only one answer. 3. Don’t bribe your child with a treat. Bribing sets a bad precedent for both of you as you will be forced to always amp up the bribe to get the behavior you desire. 4. Don’t linger. It’s tempting. But just scram.

Healthy Goodbye Rituals Author of 151 Ways to Help Your Child Have a Great Day at School (2009) and parenting expert Robin McClure suggests creating a parting ritual. “Maybe it is a special hug or handshake, a kiss and a twirl, or a set verbal exchange between you (such as “I love you best because...”).” Get creative so these formerly tough moments make way for fun memories.

A Jedi Goodbye. Social worker and blogger Dana Aderhold came up with a clever customized ritual. “When my son was four he started a new preschool where he didn’t know any of the other students. We created the ‘Jedi Goodbye;’ when my husband or I dropped him off at preschool we would do a secret light saber signal that was our goodbye ritual. It meant that ‘the force was with him’ until we picked him up. He found this very reassuring.”

Consistent Goodbyes. Mom, daycare owner, and blogger Nicole Dash says “It is a good idea to say goodbye in the same way each day. If you help your child hang up his/her coat and then give a kiss and hug before turning and leaving with a wave, then do not break that routine by one day sitting and playing.” Also, Dash says consistent means it is important you not try to shortcut the goodbye because you are running late. Low Stress Goodbyes. Parents should keep their emotions in check and fake it if necessary. Dash says it’s not a coincidence when your child chooses to melt down and cling to you on a day you are running late to a meeting. “Never tell your child you are running late, or show signs of stress. This will place undue stress on your child and will make the morning miserable for everyone.”

Less Guilt-riddled Goodbyes.

Courageous Goodbyes.

There will be days your child will cry due to fatigue, a cold, etc. Dash says, “Whatever the reason, these sad goodbyes do not usually last longer than it takes you to get back into your car. It does not mean they hate you for leaving them in daycare.”

Dr. Laura Markham has this advice when it is you shedding the tears: “Have faith in your child, and in nature. Nature designed kids to hang onto their parents for protection, but to start exploring once they feel safe. Worrying about leaving your child at school is a way of saying you don’t believe he can cope… have faith in your child’s inner strength to rise to the occasion and grow.” AOP

Smiley Goodbyes. Warrick says on the big day, keep smiling and stay positive. “Remind your child of all the ‘new and exciting things’ they will do. If you are confident about your child’s new environment, your child will be positive to.” 33

Michele Ranard has a husband, two sons, and a master’s in counseling. She blogs at http://hellolovelystudio.com and http://hellolovelychild.blogspot.com. www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Creative Apps for Creative Kids We live in the Golden Age of Apps. For parents, this can be confusing. Kids love apps but many seem like little more than high-tech pacifiers that amuse without stimulating. To find the exceptions, parents have to evaluate apps as they do other playthings. Is the app developmentally appropriate? Does it promote active engagement or passive viewing? Does your child get excited enough to want to tell you about what he or she is doing? Apps that encourage creativity are usually winners. These mini-programs encourage your child to explore, think and make things they can share with other people. Obviously, you’ll want to match the app with your child’s aptitudes and interests but here are ten promising possibilities. These programs are available through the Apple I-Tunes store though, in many cases, comparable products are available for other platforms.

3. Sketch Critters.

1. Pull together a picture book.

6. Tell a tale.

Tapikeo provides simple grids that make it easy for a child to arrange the photos on a phone and then add narration. Use it to make scrapbooks and picture books or, for that matter, flash cards and slide shows. (Ages 6-10, Tapikeo.com)

2. Fool with photos. ColorSplash adds color to photographs when you brush the screen with your fingers. Zoom in or out by pinching the screen. An undo button encourages experiments. (Ages 2-8, pocketpixels.com) Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

iLuv Drawing Animals provides step-bystep instructions for sketching recognizable animals. Forty lessons teach kids to draw everything from cats and dogs to penguins and pandas. The app also provides tools for coloring the drawings. (Ages 4-10, www.learnwithfunapps.com)

4. Doodle with light. Glow Doodle transforms ordinary drawings into spectacular neon creations at the press of a “Glow button.” (Ages 3-8, 99 cents, 2-8, I-Phone or I-Pad)

5. Conquer the keyboard. Jellybean Tunes, an app created by the parents of a young child, introduces musical basics with big, colorful notes. Kids can play the songs in the program or make up their own compositions. (Ages 3-8, www. jellybeantunes.com)

Story Patch unleashes imagination by giving children over 800 images to be incorporated into their stories. Kids can start with prompts—a trip to the zoo, a birthday party—but the tools also make it easy for them to take dictation from their own imaginations. (Ages 4-10, www.storypatch.com)

7. Fingerpaint with music. MScribble is a mash-up of fingerpainting and music composition. The program provides a musical baseline and your child 34

creates the melody just by moving her finger across the screen. (Any age)

8. Toon up. Toontastic is a clever animation program developed with help from educators at Stanford. Kids choose a setting and populate it with characters that actually move the way the child wants them to move. A microphone allows kids to add narration. (Ages 4-10, www.Launchpadtoys.com)

9. Draw what you like. The Drawing Pad app is as open-ended as a sketchbook. In the “desk drawer” at the bottom of the screen, kids have access to a wide variety of “art supplies” including pencils, markers, paintbrushes, roller pens, erasers and stickers. What they make from all of these tools is entirely up to them. (All ages, www.Drawingpadapp.com)

10. Drum for fun. Drum Circle Kids lets little kids experiment with a variety of drums including an American Trap Set, the Caribbean Steel Pan, Chinese Drums, Cuban Conga and the West African Djembe. By tapping on the screen, your child can join the onscreen drummers or create her own beats. (Ages 2-5, www. Spyedesign.com) Cool as these apps may be, they shouldn’t take the place of more traditional opportunities for creative exploration. Even the most tech-savvy kids should have easy access to fingerpaints and clay, big pads of blank paper and homemade instruments, props that make them want to star in their own stories and music that makes them want to jump up and dance.

Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2017, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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If you’ll be returning to work after your baby is born, you probably know that open daycare spots can go faster than ice cream melts on a hot day. Still, for your child’s wellbeing and your own peace of mind, it pays to get picky.

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

Starting about a few months before you’re ready, “visit three to five daycare programs,” says Kris Murray, author of The Ultimate Childcare Marketing Guide and a consultant to the childcare industry. To narrow your selection, here are the top questions Murray suggests asking daycare providers that can help you know if you’ve found the right place--or if you need to keep looking. 36

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1 What activities will my

child do? The code word to listen for

is “curriculum.” With emerging research about early brain development, top childcare programs aren’t glorified babysitters. They’re full-featured learning environments, even at the infant level because learning starts from birth. “There are all sorts of age-appropriate curriculums available now, from baby sign language in an infant room to early reading, nature, science, art, technology and drama programs for toddlers,” Murray says. Each program is typically organized into themes. If the theme is insects, for example, your toddler might be asked to dress up as his favorite bug for the drama unit, paint a bug for the art unit and learn about insects in the computer lab for the technology unit. To you though, it may all just look like fun and games. But that’s the idea. “Children learn best through play,” Murray says.

2 What’s the teacher to

child ratio? It’s important for your

child to get plenty of attention, especially the younger she is. Babies and toddlers

12 months old and younger need an adult to child ratio of no more than 1:4 (one adult per four infants). For toddlers 12 to 28 months old, the ratio should be 1:3, one instructor per three children. Small class sizes of 10 to 12 children or less is preferred too. Even if there are plenty of adults to children, a larger group of toddlers can feel chaotic.

It’s a big plus. Imagine sitting in a meeting and getting a text from your child’s daycare or preschool with a video or photo of a picture he just painted. “Real time streaming helps you stay connected to your child’s day,” Murray says. When you pick your child up, you can say “Look at the cute pictures I got from you today” and talk about them together.

The best answer is, “No problem. We have an open door policy.” Impromptu parent visits should always be welcome, Murray says. After signing your child up, you should be able to drop by anytime.

“Ask for a list of the teachers, which includes the number of years of experience they’ve had in the field, their degree (in early childhood education for the lead teacher) or the training they’ve had,” Murray says. Lead teachers should also have five to seven years of experience. With practice comes the competence to handle challenging issues, such as fighting and other behavioral problems or potty training in a toddler program.

What’s your policy What are the qualificaabout unannounced visits? tions of your caregivers?

4 How will I know what

my child did all day? Some

daycare centers will distribute a daily activity sheet detailing what each child experienced that day, such as what she had for snack and how often her diaper was changed. Even better is paperless communication. Many daycare centers offer e-mail or texting messages two to four times daily.

6 Are drop-off and pick-

up hours flexible? If you work

from home sometimes or need a half-day

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surveillance provide peace of mind because you can see what’s going on, it allows you to engage in your child’s day (“I saw you help Sam pick up his crayons. That was so nice of you.”) “You get to spy with a positive purpose,” Murray says.

How often do the kids get to go outside?

Beyond extremely hot or cold weather, “there’s no excuse for children not to get outside every day,” Murray says. Your childcare center should support the full health of the child, which includes spending time in nature and being active.

What’s your disaster recovery and emergency policy? If there’s a fire or disaster at the school, you want to know that teachers have been properly trained to respond quickly and effectively to get every child out. Every teacher should be trained in CPR too.

10 Ask yourself: Am I

comfortable with the environment? After you’ve nar-

help here and there, look for a daycare option works with your nontraditional schedule. Daycare that’s less than fulltime is a growing trend. “For a monthly membership fee, many daycare centers will allow you to drop off your child whenever you want,” Murray says.

What’s the security situation like? Most childcare

programs are safer than they were five years ago. Some now, for example, have biometrics at the entrance. Instead of Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

punching in a code at the door, you’re be required to place your finger on a pad to enter the building. “Stricter regulations on safety and background checks are now required in many states,” Murray says. When touring a daycare center, ask whether the children are monitored by a secure webcam. Is the feed distributed to the director’s office so there’s oversight of what’s happening in the classroom? (Good.) Can you have access to the feed as well? (Double good.) Not only does camera 38

rowed it down to your top picks, spend an hour or two hour observing a classroom when the kids are awake (not at nap time). What’s the vibe? The daycare center should feel open and warm-hearted. Teachers should look like they’re happy to be there and engaged with the children. If you get a good feeling about the place, chances are your child will like it too because he’ll pick up on your satisfaction. Finally, confirm your selection by finding out what everyone else has to say. Review testimonials from other parents on the daycare center’s Facebook page and review sites such as Yelp. “Sometimes there are disgruntled employees or an occasional unhappy parent,” Murray says. If you see 10 great reviews and one negative one, you’re probably fine. Look for a preponderance of positive.” AOP Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition, parenting and consumer issues.

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Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center ad on page 40

Director: Milissa Clowers Address: 128 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn. Phone: 821-8125 Email: afbcdc@gmail.com Website: www.auburnfbc.org Ages: Infant through 6 years and After School care available grades K - 5 / Field-Trip Based Summer Camp available for children who have completed Kindergarten - 5th grade (entering 6th) Hours: 7:00am-5:30pm Transportation from Schools available; Licensed by the State of Alabama; Nationally Accredited through National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs/ Association for Early Learning Leaders (NAC); Theme-based Lesson Plans and Curriculum. 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. Now Enrolling Summer Camp. Please contact Milissa or Kristina for more information.

Auburn Parks and Recreation Department • Little Learners Preschool Program ads on pages 4, 20, and 27

Coordinator: Dana Stewart Address: Dean Road Rec. Center, 307 S. Dean Road Phone: 501-2950 or dstewart@auburnalabama.org Ages: 3 – 5 (child must be potty trained to participate) Days/Time: Monday, Wednesday, Friday • 7:30 – 11:30 a.m. Description: Join us for a fun-filled quarter of arts & crafts, storytelling, and creative learning. This program reinforces preschool readiness and promotes socialization skills. Field trips may be offered.

Bonnie’s Kids Childcare Center ad on page 24

Director /Owner: Tammie Long Address: 2314 Enterprise Drive, Opelika Phone: 745-6248 Website: www.bonnieskidschildcare.com Email: Bonnieskids@aol.com Ages: 4 weeks to 10 year old Hours: 6:00am- 5:30pm; Monday-Friday Conveniently located across from Tiger Town. “Where children grow.” Closed circuit monitoring; computer & dance programs; pick up from school for Beauregard, Opelika & Auburn, and Trinity Christian for after school programs, and summer camps. We are licensed for up to 200 children / DHR Licensed for 26 years with qualified staff that have been at the center for over 15

years. Summer activities program for school age children; Breakfast, lunch, & snack provided (USDA Food Program), Premier Spirit Academy, field trips include swimming, bowling, parks, Callaway Gardens, Auburn University and movie theatre; art and music classes offered at the center.

Farmville First Steps Preschool ads on page 27

Address: 3607 Al Hwy 147 North, Auburn Phone: 329-KIDZ Website: www.farmvillefirststeps.org Email: Info@farmvillefirststeps.org Ages: 2 year old: Monday & Wednesday OR Tuesday & Thursday, 3 year old: Monday, Wednesday & Friday OR Tuesday & Thursday, 4 year old: Monday-Friday. Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00-11:30am The curriculum we have designed is to deliver the physical, social, emotional and intellectual needs of early childhood. Our hands on learning experiences will strengthen your child‘s development and prepare them for Kindergarten. We allow children to grow, experience new things and feel secure and capable in God’s world.

Growing Room Child Development Center- Auburn ad on page 37

Owner- Laura Smith, Director-Hollie Autrey Address: 644 North Dean Road, Auburn Phone: 501-2044 Email: hautrey@grauburn.com Website: www.growingroomusa.com Ages: 6 weeks-12 years old Hours: 6:30am-6:30pm Give Your Child the Growing Room Experience! More Informed Parents Choose Growing Room! “On Our Block”-language based curriculum, Character

Education programs, A Beka Phonics, nutritious warm meals, superior security and an outstanding playground with safe, solid rubber surfacing. Extracurricular programs include JumpBunch & Dance. We offer before and after school care to most Auburn City Schools.

Parkway Baptist Church Preschool ad on page 38

Director: Dawn Woodrow Assistant Director: Beth Fordham Address: 766 East University Drive, Auburn Phone: 321-0537 Email: dawn.woodrow@parkwayauburn.org Website: www.parkwayauburn.org Ages: 6 weeks-Kindergarten program Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30am-12 pm & 8:30am-12:15pm Christian based preschool consisting of biblical and instructional curriculums. Instructional curriculum is Handwriting Without Tears®. The curriculum draws from years of innovation and research to provide developmentally appropriate, multisensory tools and strategies for our classrooms. The program follows research that demonstrates children learn more effectively by actively doing, with materials that address all styles of learning. Weekly Chapel, monthly lunch bunches, extracurricular tumbling classes, and more!!

A.C.H.R. Child Development Center-Darden Address: 601 S. 4th Street, Opelika Phone: 821-8336 Ages: 3 weeks-12 years old Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:00am-5:30pm

Auburn University Early Learning Center

Address: Auburn Campus Phone: 844-4696 Website: www.humsci.auburn.edu/hdfs/earlylearn-main.php

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Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lee County

Ages: 3-5 year olds; half day and full day options Nationally accredited laboratory preschool is available to any child in the community. Head teachers generally hold advanced degrees in Early Childhood Education or Child Development and the teaching assistants are graduate students working on advanced degrees in Human Development and Family Studies. The teaching philosophy is “learn by doing”. The facility also maintains a research mission and is designed to maximize opportunities to conduct developmental research on children and their families.

Auburn City Schools After-School Programs

Programs located at and all Elementary Schools Phone: 887-2100 Website: www.auburnschools.org Ages: Kindergarten -5th graders Hours: Immediately after school until 5:30pm Individualized tutoring, participation in creative activities, and interaction with peers. Tuition prices are on a sliding scale based on lunch status. Activities such as art, sports, computer, music and movement, and other clubs added throughout the year help children interact socially and physically with children of all backgrounds in their community. Tutoring allows individualized instruction tailored to student’s learning styles and levels of understanding therefore improving grades and self-esteem.

Auburn Day Care Centers

Director: Ethel White; 4 Locations Central Office: 410 Boykin Street, Room 14, Auburn Morton Center- 68 Slaughter Street Ridgecrest Center- 969 Booker Street Boykin Center- 400 Boykin Street Phone: 821-4060 Email: auburndaycarectr@bellsouth.net Website: www.auburndaycarecenters.com Hours: Weekdays 6:30am-5:30pm Founded in 1964 to meet the needs of low-income, working families, ADCC is an accredited, full service daycare for infants through “afterschool” age 12 with fees based on

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

a sliding scale. All families of any income level welcome. Rates start at $58 per week. Half days available.

Auburn United Methodist ChurchWeekday Preschool

Director: Rachael Thomas Address: 137 South Gay Street, Auburn. Phone: 826-8800, Ext. 229 Email: rachaelt@aumc.net Website: www.aumc.net Ages: 1-4 year olds Hours: Monday-Friday options; 8:30am-12:00pm. The Preschool follows the Auburn City School schedule and is designed to begin the learning process early in a child’s life in a supportive, nurturing environment.

Auburn United Methodist Church- Discovery Club After-School Program

Contact: Lindsey Middleton Address: 137 South Gay Street, Auburn. Phone: 826-8800, Ext. 278 Email: lindsey.middleton@aumc.net Website: www.aumc.net Ages: Kindergarten-7th grades Hours: Monday- Friday (after school until 6:00pm) care is available to children in the 1st through 7th grades and can be picked up at their schools and transported by bus to the church for homework, snacks, crafts, cooking, recreational activities, devotionals and mission projects.

Bright Beginnings at FBC Opelika

Director: Marsha Teel Address: 301 South 8th Street, Opelika Phone: 364-2784 Website: www.fbcopelika.com Ages: 11 months (and walking)-Preschool Hours: 8:30 am- 11:30 am; Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday / Monday-Friday Christian- based curriculum. Lunch bunch, Chapel, Music, Spanish, extracurricular activities and more!

Address: Auburn Unit-400-B Boykin Street Phone: 821-6020 Address: Potter Daniel Unit- 1610 Toomer St, Opelika Phone: 745-2582 Website: www.bgcleeco.org After school hours: 2:30-6:30pm; Monday- Friday; Summer Camps available. Club programs and services promote and enhance the development of boys and girls by instilling a sense of competence, usefulness, belonging and influence. Offering transportation from schools, homework assistance, tutoring, mentoring, games, field trips, prevention services, sports, arts, and more!

BRIDGES- After School Program

Address: Drake Middle School, Auburn Phone: 749-8400 Hours: 3:15-5:30pm; Monday-Friday Full-time program of care for children ages 10-14 years sponsored by the Employers’ Child Care Alliance. Based on an innovative curriculum, participants are involved in a variety of healthy, fun, educational and interactive program elements (or clubs). Tutoring offered; snack provided. Summer Program registering now.

Care A Lots Child Development Center Address: 1515 Lee Road 298, Smiths Station Phone: 297-7269 Ages: 6 weeks-12 years old Hours: 6:00am-6:00pm State Licensed. A Beka Curriculum

Child Care Network- Opelika

Director: Michelle Abernathy Address: 702 Second Avenue, Opelika Phone: 749-9631 Website: www.childcarenetwork.net Ages: 6 weeks old-12 years old Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:00am- 6:00pm High Reach Learning & Bright Babies Curriculum, Summer programs, Young Achievers Club, free meals and snacks with family style dining, before and after school pick up for most Opelika City Schools

Child Care Resource Center- Opelika

Address: 2015 Gateway Drive, Opelika Phone: 749-8400 Website: www.ccrc-alabama.org Our Services: Training and professional development for childcare professionals; Assisting parents with locating quality child care; Financial assistance for childcare; BRIDGES After-School and Summer Programming for

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10-14 year olds; AmeriCorps Program within 2 counties Work within child care centers to promote quality childcare (STEPS).

Covington Preschool- Opelika Parks and Recreation Department

Address: 213 Carver Avenue, Opelika. Phone: 705-5550 Age: 3-4 year olds Days: Monday-Friday, 8:00am-12 noon Prepare your child for school-combination of fun and learning skills. Space is limited.

Creative Discovery Child Development Center

Director: Staci Greene Address: 1675 Shug Jordan Parkway, Auburn Phone: 887-5730 Email: kidscreative7@gmail.com Website: www.creativediscoverycdc.com Ages: 6 weeks old-12 years old Hours: 6:30am-6:00pm; Monday.-Friday “Where discovery leads to learning!” Daily schedule includes free choice of time spent in learning centers, group time for circle time, creative movement, music, storytelling, and dramatization. Learning centers include creative arts, literature, science, pre-math, dramatic play, and cognitive and small motor development. Breakfast, lunch, and afternoon snack provided. After school pick up at Auburn City Schools, Lee Scott, and Indian Pines. School Age summer camp, preschool summer camp, Scholastic Book Fairs, lots of special activities throughout the year for family involvement. Security hand-scan doors, closed circuit cameras throughout.

Family Guidance Center

Address: 36-D Samford Avenue, Opelika Phone: 745-7037 Resource for parents in Lee County.

Foundations Preschool at Cornerstone Church

Director: Amy Baxter Address: 2123 Hamilton Rd, Auburn Phone: 887-1152 Website: www.cornerstonebuzz.org Ages: 6 weeks-4K Hours: 2-5 day options; 8:00am-12:00pm Foundations Preschool is an exciting, fun-filled Christian based learning experience for children. Features include worship time, music class and summer preschool classes.

God’s Glory Daycare

Director: Jeffery McCoy Address: 1500 Bruce Avenue, Opelika Phone: 737-0443 Ages: 6 weeks old- 6yrs Hours: 6:00am- 6:00pm Before and After School care and pickup; Summer programs; A Beka Curriculum and My Baby Can Read.

Grace United Methodist Church Preschool

Director: Leslie Carter Address: 915 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn Phone: 887-5981 Email: gracepreschool_auburn@yahoo.com Website: www.graceumcaub.com Ages: 1 year- 4 years old Hours: 8am -11:30am / two, three and five day options A thematic curriculum and related activities are utilized, addressing the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual domains of early childhood education. “Hands-on” learning experiences: Art, Manipulatives, Science, Dramatic Play, Chapel and Fieldtrips. Snacks provided and lunch bunch available.

Greater Peace Child Development Center Address: 940 Fox Run Parkway, Opelika Phone: 749-5555

Email: lrj0005@auburn.edu The center offers an affordable tuition payment plan that is based on a “sliding scale,” dependent upon the family’s income.

Holy Trinity Day School

Address: 100 Church Drive; Auburn Phone: 821-9838 Email: dayschool@holytrinitychurch.info Website: www.holytrinitychurch.info/school Hours/Ages: Half-day Preschool and Kindergarten Christian atmosphere; Units in math, social studies, science, art, music, literature, poetry, & field trips. Weekly chapel, Bible lessons, music and prayers.

Indian Pines Country Day School

Directors: Stacy Jackson Address: 1742 Saugahatchee Road, Auburn Phone: 821-7786 Email: sccijackson@yahoo.com Website: www.ipcds.org Ages: 3 year olds- Kindergarten Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30am -12:00pm Program includes themed units, language, math, science, social skills, phonics program and more. Lunch bunch, gymnastics, and art classes offered.

Joyland Child Development Center

Director: Pamela Dumas Address: 410 Boykin Street, Auburn Phone: 821-7624‎ Email: JoylandCDCinc@yahoo.com Ages: 2 years-12 years old Hours: 6:30am-5:30pm Sliding Fee Scale; Joyland accepts children under Child Care Resource Center Subsidized Care Transportation before and after school

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King’s Kids Child Care and Development Center

Address: 2900 Waverly Parkway, Opelika Phone: 749-3916 Email: director@opelikadaycare.com Website: www.opelikadaycare.com Ages: Newborn-Preschool Hours: 6:30am- 6:30pm Learning centers include Blocks & Building Design, Dramatic Play, Library & Literature, Math & Table Activities, Music & Movement, Science & Discovery, and Writing Exploration. We place special emphasis on readingreadiness, but your child will also explore beginning math and science concepts, creative arts, dramatic play and much more. Provide morning and afternoon snack and a warm lunch. Before and after School / summer program.

Learning Zone

Director: Debbie Armstrong & Renee Thomas Address: 1221 Commerce Drive, Auburn Phone: 821-1127 Ages: 3 weeks old-12 years old Hours: 5:15am -6:00pm Fall and Summer programs available. After school program, drop off and pick up available, full and part time offered.

Lee County Home Providers Association/ Lee County Home Childcare Association

Providers of in home care of children throughout Lee County. Monthly networking meetings; referrals; DHR approved in service training of home care providers.

Lee-Scott Academy- Preschool

Contact: Cindy Leonard, Teddi Meagher, Joanna Reaves Address: 1601 Academy Drive, Auburn Phone: 821-2430 Website: www.lee-scott.org To provide a safe and pleasant atmosphere in which students may develop socially, mentally, physically,

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

and spiritually. Our goals and objectives are carefully geared toward the needs and developmental stages of the individual pupil. We are committed to a low-key readiness plan for this age group, using familiar teaching vehicles to introduce language skills and number awareness. The program is lightly structured, based on our persuasion that four-year-olds thrive and learn in an atmosphere that stresses “fun with a purpose,” or learning by playing. We follow a thematic approach.

Milestones Learning Center

Director: Lee Sides Address: 1811 E Glenn Ave, Auburn Phone: 887-4391 Email: milestoneslc@gmail.com Website: www.milestoneslc.com Ages: 6 weeks old – Pre-K / Full time and part time available Hours: Monday- Friday; 6:30am- 6:00pm “Believes Childhood is a Journey, not a Race”. High/ Scope Curriculum. Children learn through direct, hands-on experiences with people, objects, events, and ideas..Tumbling, Kindermusik, Summer Camps and more. Fall registration will be held annually in June.

Minnie Mouse’s Home Daycare

Director/Owner: Minnie Allen Address: 144 Lee Road 449, Auburn Phone: 821-0963 Email: mmdayc@yahoo.com Ages: 6 weeks old-12 years Hours: Monday-Sunday; 1st and 2nd shifts available Loving and nurturing home environment where we teach ABCs and 123s! Just 5 minutes from Exit 51 in Auburn, Auburn University and all the major plants on S. College Street. Meals and snacks provided; State Licensed and CPR Certified.

Miss Deanna’s Childcare

Director: Deanna Holley Address: 1901 Corporate Drive, Opelika and

1745 E University Dr, Auburn Phone: 745-7139 and 821-0066 Ages: 6 weeks-12 years old Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am -5:30pm After school transportation and care, School age summer program, High Reach learning curriculum, CPR and First Aid Certified and State Licensed.

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Opelika City Schools- Extended Day

Coordinator: Scarlett McAllister Phone: 745-9700 Email: scarlett.mcallister@opelikaschools.org Extended Day Hours: 2:30pm-5:30pm. Each day includes: snack, tutorial and homework time, crafts & activities, and physical play time.

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Preschool Adventures at Lakeview Baptist

Director: Holly Hutto Address: 1600 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn. Phone: 321-4905 Email: hb5hutto@gmail.com Website: www.lakeviewbaptist.org Ages: 1 year old- 4 year olds Hours: Ones and Twos - Tuesday and Thursday; 8:45am - 11:45am Threes and Fours - Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday, Friday; 8:45am – 12:00pm Our most important tasks are to help children develop mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially through a planned curriculum. It is the intent of Lakeview Preschool Adventures to provide an opportunity for preschoolers to socialize and learn with peers in a Christian setting. Christ-centered, focusing on Scripture memory, Bible stories, social interaction, letter and number recognition.

Providence Baptist Church Child Development Center

Director: Mandy Steward Address: 2807 Lee Road 166, Opelika Phone: 745-0507 Email: director_mandy@yahoo.com Website: www.providencealive.com Ages: 6 weeks old-5 years old Hours: Monday-Friday, Half-day and full days available; 6:30am-5:30pm Child-centered curriculum that helps children grow mentally, physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually. Provides breakfast, lunch and snack.

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Stepping Stones Christian Childcare Center Director: Ashley Marsh Address: 1131 2nd Ave, Opelika Phone: 749-5616 Email: amarshopelika@gmail.com Website: www.cciopelika.com

St. Michael Catholic Preschool

Director: Cindy Wilton Address: 1100 North College Street, Auburn Phone: 887-5540, ext. 206 Email: cwilton@mobilearchdiocese.org Website: www.stmichaelsauburn.com Ages: Preschool ages 3 and 4 years old Hours: Monday-Friday options

The Children’s House-Auburn Montessori

Director: Charlene Kam Address: 231 East Drake Avenue, Auburn Phone: 740-6192 Website: www.auburnmontessorischool.org Ages: 3-18 year olds The Children’s House to preserve a home away from home that nurtures the love of learning, values ambition, and fosters the spirit of peace, love and kindness in every child. The curriculum includes: art, craft, culture, grace and courtesy, foreign language, field trips, gardening, gymnastics, language, mathematics, movement, music, outdoor and indoor play, practical life, Reggio Emelia Project instruction, sensorial, and science.

The Fig Tree Childcare and Learning Center Address: 44 Lee Road 380, Valley Phone: (334) 741-9216 Email: gwen@figtreechildcare.com Ages: 6 weeks old-12 years old Hours: 6:00am-6:00pm Offers full time, part time, after school and drop in care; School pick up service available.

The Little H.A.P.I.E. Tree Preschool

Director: Leigh Ann Strain Address: 721 E. University Dr., Auburn (inside AEEC) Phone: 887-4956 Email: lstrain@learning-tree.org Website: www.learning-tree. org/preschool/auburn Ages: 3-5 years old / Up to 24 children served at a time Hours: 8:30am-2:20pm; Monday-Friday 1. Preschool Program- Our preschool program aims to prepare students for Kindergarten. Our lessons are based on state standards and our teachers are certified. We focus on pre-reading skills, basic math concepts, handwriting, and social skills. All lessons are geared to address individual developmental needs of those enrolled. 2. Preschool Program for Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): In addition to regular preschool services, we provide intensive services for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental delays. Our interventions are based on scientifically validated methods, specifically Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Each child eligible for special education services has an individualized education plan (IEP) developed upon entrance.

Trinity United Methodist ChurchChildren’s Day Out- Opelika

Address: 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika, Phone: 745-2632 Website: www.tumcopelika.org Ages: 3 months-5 years school year; 3 months-8 years summer program

Hours: Open to public- Monday-Friday, 8:30am-1:30pm. A Christian day care program offered as a ministry to the community. Activities include crafts, games, chapel time, playground time, snack time, and more! There are no registration fees, no attendance requirements, and no need to call ahead – just use us when you need us!

University Daycare Child Care Center

Director: Hopewell Carroll Address: 2454 East University Drive, Auburn Phone: 826-7337; Email: hpcarroll@una.edu Ages: 6 weeks-10 years old Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:45am-5:45pm NAC accredited, and a Alabama Office of School Readiness Pre-Kindergarten Site. Curriculum for all ages; after school care with pickup from Auburn City Schools and Lee-Scott. All staff is CPR certified; security lobby and cameras in all rooms. AOP

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FamilyCalendar Tuesday, March 28 Baby Time Auburn Public Library. Two times to choose from, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Crazy 8s Math Club: Grades K-2nd & 3rd-5th Auburn Public Library. Grades K-2 meet from 3:30-4:15 p.m. Grades 3-5 meet from 4:30 -5:15. Join Bedtime Math’s® Crazy 8s Club®, where you’ll build stuff, run and jump, make music, and make a mess… it’s a totally new kind of math club! You’ll get to do mischief-making activities and you’ll get to take home some cool gadgets, too. Space is limited. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Wednesday, March 29 AU Leadership Series: Listen Like You Mean It This interactive and thought provoking session was designed to create self-awareness about the way you listen to others at work. It will also provide you with tools to become a better, more mindful listener. The Hotel at Auburn University. 334-844-5100. Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. Two times to choose from, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Thursday, March 30 The Price Is Right Live! RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. This on-stage travelling show gives individuals the chance to “Come On Down” and play classic games from television’s longest running and most popular game show. Contestants can win cash, appliances, vacations and possibly even a new car by playing favorites like Plinko™, Cliffhangers™, The Big Wheel™, and the fabulous Showcase. www.rivercenter.org. A Little Lunch Music Pianist Vadim Serebryany. On Thursdays at Noon, make a lunch date with our region’s finest musicians. A Little Lunch Music is an informal, come-and-go performance presented by JCSM. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. www.jscm.auburn.edu. FILM@JCSM: East Meets West: The World Introduced by Arianne Gaetano, Auburn University. Jule Collins Museum of Fine Art. 5:00 p.m. A young dancer, her security-guard boyfriend and others work at World Park, a bizarre cross-pollination of Las Vegas and Epcot Center where visitors can interact with famous international monuments without ever leaving the Bejing suburbs. ‘The World’ casts a compassionate eye on the daily loves, friendships and desperate dreams of these provincial workers. www.jcsm.auburn. edu. Preschool Storytime Auburn Public Library. Two times to choose from, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Gamers Society Auburn Public Library. For ages 10-18 years. 4:00 p.m. Minecraft, Wii/Xbox and Pokemon. www.auburnalabama.org/library. 12th Annual Mayor’s Jeans & Jackets Ball Mayors of Auburn and Opelika will host the 12th Annual Mayors Ball to assist in an effort to raise funds that contribute to the daily operating expenses of the Boys

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

& Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County. The Mayors Ball will take place at 5:30 p.m. at the Event Center Downtown (former Coca Cola Bottling Plant) in Opelika. Contact the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County office with any questions at 334-502-1311.

with great, live music, bicycle inspections, helmet fittings, exhibits, activities for children and a cookout. Visit www. bikebash.org for more information or to become a sponsor. Questions? Contact Gabby Meredith at (334) 501-2946.

Museum After Hours Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. On Thursday nights from 5 to 8, the Rotunda and Cafe become JCSM After Hours. It’s the perfect place for relaxing, watching the sunset, and listening to music. Hear original songs, jazz, classical, cultural, and sometimes adventurous music fill the pristine spaces at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, Auburn University. The fine art exhibitions are open and free to the public, and the gift shop is open. www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Eggs on the Plains Big Green Egg Cookoff benefiting The Exceptional Foundation. 10:30 a.m. 2:30 p.m. Sample delicious foods cooked on the Big Green Egg. The event will be on the Plains of Auburn at the beautiful Ogletree Village Shopping Center. www.watsonsbackyardliving.com.

Friday, March 31

Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park Pine Mountain, Ga. www.gastateparks.org/FDRoosevelt. 4:00 p.m. Team up (1-6 people) and complete in our onsite scavenger hunt with your camera or phone. Pick up checklist/rules at the park office anytime. Pictures must be brought to office with checklist by 4 p.m. Winners notified by phone that day to pick up prize. No charge. Parking fee $5.

Remarkable Reptiles Meet live reptiles as we review their basic natural history and learn to identify our local lizards, turtles and snakes. Meet at the covered picnic shelter, Nest to the Trading Post in the campground. FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. $3 ages 4 & up. Pay cash at the door or pre-pay at the park office. $5 parking. www.gastatepareks.org/FDRoosevelt.

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Eufaula Pilgrimage Mar. 31 though Apr. 2. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m. Eufaula hosts Alabama’s oldest tour of homes and has more than 700 structures listed on the National Register. Each spring, the city of Eufaula opens its doors to share this historical wealth. Visitors can take guided tours of homes and sites and also enjoy an art show, concerts, a wax museum and much more. www.eufaulapilgrimage.com. Young Art Patrons Crawl The Columbus Museum, Ga. Join us for an evening of open studio art tours of four galleries featuring works by Columbus State University’s (CSU) faculty and students. We will tour the Illges Gallery, Bay Gallery, student studios, and Art Lab. The experience will include commentary from the artists and light refreshments. This event is held in partnership with Artbeat 2016. www. columbusmuseum.com.

Saturday, April 1 Kaleidoscope Concert The RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus, Ga. This eagerly awaited annual showcase demonstrates the breadth and depth of talent across the entire Schwob School of Music. Featuring large instrumental and vocal ensembles, chamber music, and individual performers, Kaleidoscope offers an electrifying variety of repertoire from classical to jazz, from exuberant to refined: you will hear it all! Tickets provided through RiverCenter box office, (706)256-3612 or rivercenter.org. April Fools 23 Mile Hike FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. www.gastatepareks.org/FDRoosevelt. Start at sunrise with leader Bob Jones to traverse the 23 miles of this fabulous and diverse trail along Pine Mountain Ridge. Early registration includes t-shirt. Volunteers will pick up hikers at the end. Meet at Callaway Country Store Overlook Parking Lot on Hwy 27. Register and pay by March 24. $20 plus $5 parking. 706-663-4858. Fountain City Arts Festival Prattville. The Fountain City Arts Festival will feature local and regional artists with a variety of artwork, including folk art, basket weaving, glass, clay, painting, photography and much more. There will be performances by the Prattville Pops, Community Chorus, and the Way Off Broadway Theatre as well as local and regional entertainers. There will be a children’s art canopy with hands on art projects where kids work with professional artists and crafters. Free and open to the public. www.prattvilleal.gov. 18th Annual Auburn Bike Bash Hosted by The City of Auburn, Auburn Bicycle Committee and Auburn City Schools. Ogletree Elementary School parking lot, Auburn, 8 a.m. - noon. Bicycle rides of varying distances will be offered, along

Saturday STEM Auburn Public Library. For ages 4-7 years. 10:00 - 11:00 a.m. Preschoolers-2nd grade and their caregivers are invited to join us for a new storytime that is all about STEM…Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math. This storytime will focus on these concepts in a fun, interactive, story-driven format. www.auburnalabama. org/library. Montgomery Babypalooza Baby & Maternity Expo MultiPlex at the Cramton Bowl, Montgomery. 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Free to attend. www.babypaloozatour.com.

Monday, April 3 Young Writer’s Club Auburn Public Library. Grades 2-5. 3:30 p.m. Do you love to write and tell stories? Join the Young Writer’s Club. We will do one hour of fun writing exercises and sharing our work in a safe environment. Join us to stretch your writing skills. www.auburnalabama.org/ library Teen Writer’s Club Auburn Public Library. Grades 6 - 12. 6:00 p.m. Do you love to write and tell stories? Each week will explore storytelling and writing through exercises, author advice, and sharing our work. Bring your imagination, laptop, pen, paper, and create something new! www. auburnalabama.org/library Literacy Classics Club “The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn” by Mark Twain. Auburn Public Library. 1:00-2:30 p.m. A book discussion group for you to divulge your inner literati! Teens, grades 8-12, can join us for hot beverages and lively discussion as we dissect some of the most influential pieces of western literature. Following the discussion, participants are invited to create projects to supplement what they gained from their experience. Craft supplies are provided and participation is voluntary.

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FamilyCalendar Tuesday, April 4 Sylacauga’s 9th Annual Magic of Marble Festival April 4 - 15. The event will showcase Sylacauga’s beautiful white marble and feature sculptors in action at the city’s Blue Bell Park. The visiting Italian master sculptor will teach on site. Scavenger Hunt and 5-K run add to the fun of the Festival. Tours will be offered to the marble quarries. The Gantts/IMERYS Observation Point overlooking an historic quarry will be open to the public. Free and open to the public. www.bbcomerlibrary.net/marblefestival.

Preschool Storytime Auburn Public Library. Two times to choose from, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library Gamers Society See March 30 for details.

Friday, April 7 Spring Fling April 7 - 16. Columbus Civic Center. Celebrate the beginning of spring with rides, concessions, games and more! www. columbusciviccenter. org.

Baby Time See March 28 for details.

Wednesday, April 5 Toddler Time See March 29 for details.

Thursday, April 6 Chris Stapleton with Maren Morris Columbus Civic Center. Stapleton is the first artist to win Album of the Year, Male Vocalist of the Year and New Artist of the Year at the same awards. Stapleton also performed a “show-stealing” (Rolling Stone) duet on the live awards show with superstar and friend Justin Timberlake, which Entertainment Weekly called, “an unapologetic display of abnormal levels of talent.” www. columbusciviccenter.org. Alabama Auto Show April 6 - 9. BJCC, Birmingham. The Alabama Auto Show is a family fun event that allows consumers to shop upcoming model year domestic and import cars, light trucks, vans, SUVs, and Hybrid vehicles from automotive manufacturers around the world … under one roof. www. alabamaautoshow.com. Birmingham Botanical Gardens Spring Plant Sale April 6 - 9. Mountain Brook, Al. More than 100,000 plants available for sale including trees, shrubs, roses, daylilies, ferns, annuals, perennials, vegetables, herbs and more. This sale allows a unique opportunity, providing expert knowledge on the plants and by offering unique plants difficult to find in ordinary garden centers. www. bbgardens.org. Earth Day April 6 - 7. Sponsored by City of Auburn Parks and Recreation. Town Creek Park, Auburn. Auburn Parks & Recreation will host Auburn City Schools second graders at Town Creek Park for a day of learning about water conservation, recycling and how to plants trees and various other plants. www.auburnalabama.org. “Let There Be Art” Benefit Gala Columbus Museum, Ga. Join us for the start of the fine art show. Enjoy entertainment, gourmet cuisine, and fine décor inspired by the WWI exhibition, courtesy of Bob Vardaman. Gala attendees get the first chance to purchase art from the 10”x10” Art for Education gallery. www.columbusmuseum.com. A Little Lunch Music: Cellist Laura Usiskin See March 30 for details. Museum After Hours See March 30 for details.

April in Talladega April 7 - 8. Annual tour of some of Talladega’s most beautiful and historic homes and buildings, with special ghosts of the Oak Hill Cemetery. Special shows at the historic Ritz Theatre, block party on the square and more. www.aprilintalladega.com. Dan Weber in Concert at Sundilla Dan Weber will make his Sundilla debut at the AUUF at 7:30. Advance tickets are just $12 and can be found at Spicer’s music, Blooming Colors, and online at www. sundillamusic.com. Admission at the door will be $15. Attendees may bring food and beverages. Songwriter Dan Weber has been described as “The Classic Mid-Life Overnight Sensation” after bursting onto the festival scene in 2010 to a standing ovation at the Sisters Folk Festival for his engaging set in the Dave Carter songwriting contest. Auburn. “Let There Be Art” Fine Art Show Columbus Museum. The fine art show will open during the benefit gala. It will include a variety of art from across the nation as well as original art from local, regional, and international artists. www.columbusmuseum.com Night Eggstravaganza 6:30 p.m. Arrive early for a hot dog supper, fantastic egg games and the petting coral. Begin with competition games: egg tossing & ribbon runs for ages 10 - adult. Visit the animals in the petting coral. Bring your basket & flashlight for a candy egg hunt separated by age: up to 3 years, 4-6 years, and 7-9 years. $5 ages 3-9; 10 & up free $5 parking. 706-663-4858. FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. www.gastatepareks.org/ FDRoosevelt. Opelika First Friday On the First Friday of each month, downtown Opelika shops will stay open until 8 p.m. so that diners of our downtown restaurants can shop before or after they eat. There will also be entertainment on street corners for everyone’s enjoyment. Date Night: Movies On the Green “The Wedding Singer”. A date night movie will be played on the big blow up screen down in Montgomery’s Riverfront Park starting at dark on the first Friday in April, May and June. Bring chairs or blankets for seating. Food vendors and a cash bar will be available for purchase. No outside alcohol allowed. Must be at least 18 years or older. Pets welcome. Tickets must be purchased online or at the gate. www. funinmontgomery.com. Alabama Auto Show See April 6 for details. Birmingham Botanical Gardens Spring Plant Sale See April 6 for details.

Earth Day See April 6 for details.

Saturday, April 8 Calico Fort Arts & Crafts Fair April 8-9. Fort Deposit, Al. One of the largest and most popular arts and crafts fairs in the South with 200 exhibitors and 20,000 attendees in the natural amphitheater setting, a children’s area with rides and a petting zoo, and plenty of good food including oldfashioned pork barbecue and funnel cakes. www.calicofort.com. Bellingrath Easter Egg Hunt and Breakfast with the Easter Bunny Annual Breakfast with the Easter Bunny at 8 a.m., followed by three egg hunts on the Great Lawn. There will be plenty of candy and treats for kids of all ages. Registration for the Easter Egg Hunts will begin at 9 a.m. Registration in advance is required for Breakfast with the Easter Bunny. After the hunts, children may take part in arts and crafts led by students from the University of South Alabama. www.bellingrath.org. Easter Eggstravaganza! The Rock Ranch, Ga. 11:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. FREE event! Children can hunt for more than 40,000 plastic prize eggs. The event will include a presentation of the Easter Story from the Bible just before the egg hunt. Kids can also get photos with the Easter Bunny! www.therockranch.com. 20th Annual LaFayette Day for Valley Haven 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. CDT. Arts and crafts, antique cars, children’s games and rides, a motorcycle ride, live family entertainment, a variety of food available and much more. No admission charged. For more information or to register for craft show or car show, contact Craig Brown (334) 756-2868 or Lynn Oliver (334) 864-4397. www. valleyhavenschool.org. Auburn Football A-Day Jordan-Hare Stadium, Al. www.auburntigers.com. Alabama Flora and Fauna Arts Festival Alabama Nature Center, Millbrook, AL. Featuring naturethemed works of Alabama artists in a variety of mediums and style, to include ready-to hang wildlife and floral paintings, wood and stone sculpted items, fine prints and more! At the Garden, there will also be plant sales with quality plants from the Lanark grounds, plus, herbs, honey, Japanese maples, speakers, face painting and other activities from the Autauga County and Elmore County Master Gardeners. www.alabamawildlife.org. 11th Annual Ozark Crawdad and Music Festival Grab a chair and listen to the sounds of wonderful music while biting into savory delights! Crawfish! Shrimp! Cheese Steaks! We have something for everyone! Plenty to for the children to do. Come and celebrate the 11th Annual Ozark Crawdad & Music Festival in beautiful downtown Ozark, AL! Second Saturday at Columbus Museum 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Free Admission. Drop by the art cart with your children and grandchildren each month to explore various mediums of art, enjoy art related stories, and participate in gallery hunts at the Museum. Children of all ages are welcome and encouraged to participate. www. columbusmuseum.com.

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FamilyCalendar

Alabama Auto Show See April 6 for details.

Nature Walk Join our guides for a peaceful morning walk as you take in the many sights and sounds of the preserve. Nature Walks offer excellent opportunities to socialize and learn, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Walks are for adults only and offered the second Thursday of each month from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Canceled in the event of rain. Free. Louise Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 N. College Street. For more information, visit auburn.edu/preserve, email preserve@auburn.edu, or call 334-707-6512.

Birmingham Botanical Gardens Spring Plant Sale See April 6 for details.

A Little Lunch Music See March 30 for details.

Sunday, April 9

Museum After Hours See March 30 for details.

Second Saturday at Columbus Museum 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Free Admission. Drop by the art cart with your children and grandchildren each month to explore various mediums of art, enjoy art related stories, and participate in gallery hunts at the Museum. Children of all ages are welcome and encouraged to participate. www.columbusmuseum.com.

Preschool Storytime See April 6 for details.

Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park See April 1 for details. Saturday STEM See April 1 for details. April in Talladega See April 7 for details.

Alabama Auto Show See April 6 for details.

Gamers Society Auburn Public Library. For ages 10-18 years. 4:00-6:30 p.m. Movie Madness! www.auburnalabama.org/library

Friday, April 14 Underwater Egg Hunt Opelika Sportplex Pool. Free for members and $4 per guest. Ages 6-10 years. 6:00 p.m. www. opelikasportsplex.com.

Rock N Roses Hair & Barber Battle 2017 RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. 6 p.m. Come check out the Tri-City’s Hottest Hair Affair Showcasing the Hottest Barbers and Stylist in the Tri-City and Surrounding Areas. Questions concerning this event, please contact Sherrie Aaron at 706.326.8999. Birmingham Botanical Gardens Spring Plant Sale See April 6 for details.

Monday, April 10 Young Writer’s Club See April 3 for details. Teen Writer’s Club See April 3 for details.

Tuesday, April 11 Discovery Hike Explore the preserve and learn something new each month about plants, wildlife and nature with a trained naturalist who will offer your family fun opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and exercise! Discovery Hikes are offered the second Tuesday of each month, 3:30 - 4:30, for families with children ages 5 to 12. Groups meet at the pavilion. Free. Cancelled in the event of rain. This program will be held at the Louise Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 N. College Street. For more information, visit auburn.edu/preserve, email preserve@auburn.edu, or call 334-707-6512. Baby Time See March 28 for details.

Thursday, April 13 The Great Flashlight Egg Hunt Moore Stadium, Opelika. 7:30 p.m. Hunt for eggs in the dark! Bring a flashlight and a basket. Look for special prizes and Rock Eggs. www.opelikasportsplex.com.

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

Crawfish and Craft Union Station Train Shed, Downtown Montgomery. 5:30 p.m. If you like Crawfish and Crafts, this is the event for you! Limited tickets available! Tickets are $30 in Advance and $35 Day of. $2 craft beer, live music by Sonjha and Brandon. Event benefiting Child Protect.

Saturday, April 15 Easter on the Square Opelika. 10:00 a.m. Children 2nd grade and under. Arts and crafts! Take a ride on the Easter Express! Cotton Candy, Face painting, parade with and pictures with the bunny, hunting for eggs and more! www.opelikasportsplex.com. 36th Annual Easter Egg Hunt Sponsored by Wells Fargo and Auburn Parks and Recreation, at Kiesel Park. More than 35,000 are eggs hidden over a four-acre area. Musical entertainment, free sodas and balloons! The Easter Bunny will be available for photos after the Egg Hunt. The first age group will START at 10:30 a.m. sharp! Egg Hunt Start times will be staggered by age group. 3 & under Hunt @ 10:30 a.m. • 4-6 Hunt @ 10:45 a.m. 7-9 Hunt @ 11 a.m. • 10-12 Hunt @ 11:15 a.m. ahall@auburnalabama.org

Sunday, April 16

Easter Sunrise Service Stone Mountain, Ga. Experience serenity and peace as the Stone Mountain Sunrise Association presents two simultaneous, non-denominational Easter services at the top of the Mountain and at the base of the Mountain on the Memorial Lawn. The event began in 1944, when Lucille A. Lanford, from Stone Mountain First United Methodist Church, suggested that the church’s youth group climb to the top of Stone Mountain on Easter morning to watch the sunrise. The event grew from that one youth group to thousands ascending the mountain every Easter since. The event is produced by The Stone Mountain Sunrise Association. Both services will feature sign language interpreters for hearing impaired guests. www.stonemountainpark.com

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Monday, April 17 BioBlitz Louise Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, Auburn. People will have the opportunity to work in the forest alongside scientists from Auburn University and the local area while discovering the diversity of insects, fish, fungi, plants, mammals, herpetofauna, birds, and bats. This come-and-go event is open to the public from 7 a.m. until 9 p.m. The cost is $5 per person for all participants 10 years old and up. preserve@auburn.edu. Access for the Arts Columbus Museum. Access for the Arts is an art exploration program for individuals and caregivers with early stage Alzheimer’s. We offer monthly tours or hands-on art making sessions led by a Museum Educator. www.columbusmeseum.com.

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Tuesday, April 18 Earth Day Safari The Montgomery Zoo. Designed with school groups in mind, the Zoo’s Earth Day Safari is a fun and educational field trip for students. Students and teachers can participate in an Endangered Species Scavenger Hunt, play Earth Day Trivia games, see live animal presentations, enjoy one-on-one animal experiences and keeper talks. Group discounts available, advanced reservations required. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

Saturday STEM See April 1 for details.

Baby Time See March 28 for details.

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Super Saturdays at LaGrange Art Museum 112 Lafayette Pkwy, LaGrange, Ga. 1:00-4:00 p.m. Free family art day! Spend the afternoon at the Museum. Families, neighbors, and friends can tour the current exhibit and explore an art activity. www.lagrangeartmuseum.org.

Remarkable Reptiles See April 1 for details.

Young Writer’s Club See April 3 for details.

Educator Evening Columbus Museum. During this special event, educators and future educators will experience miniature lessons that incorporate history, art, and other subject areas. Participants will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities with Museum objects in a completely different way. By the end of the evening, participants will walk away with four adaptable lesson plans as well as samples of hands on projects and ideas for their classrooms. This program is FREE, but registration is required. www. columbusmuseum.com.

Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park See April 1 for details.

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FamilyCalendar Wednesday, April 19

Saturday, April 22

Earth Day Safari See April 18 for details.

The Rock Ranch 7th Annual Strawberry Festival The Rock Ranch, Ga. $15 per person (plus tax) over the age of two. You can pick your own strawberries or we’ll pick them for you. Enjoy all of our fun attractions, visit with Strawberry Shortcake and the Strawberry Princess, shop in our Georgia Grown Farm Market and gift shop, Open All Day – Locomotive Train Rides, Pedal Carts, Cane Pole Fishing, Tiny Town, Petting Zoo, and more! Farm Market Open Times: 10:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Attractions will close to the public at 5:00 p.m. www.therockranch.com.

Toddler Time See March 29 for details.

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Thursday, April 20 A Little Lunch Music See March 30 for details. A Little Art Talk Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Starting on the third Thursday of each month, join us for a focused look at a single work of art. A Little Art Talk lasts around an hour, leaving ample time to drop by the café for live music and poetry. Presenters include Dr. Kathryn Floyd’s and students of the 20th Century Art History Class. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Museum After Hours See March 30 for details. Third Thursday Poetry Series Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 6:30 p.m. A new lineup of visiting poets to our area is slated for the 2017 spring installment of the Third Thursday Poetry Series. Sandra Beasley is the author of three poetry collections including Count the Waves, which was published by W. W. Norton in 2015. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Preschool Storytime See April 6 for details.

Friday, April 21 Enchantment Theatre Company Presents “Peter Rabbit Tales” Birmingham. In celebration of Beatrix Potter’s 150th birthday anniversary, Enchantment Theatre brings her captivating stories to life. Using fantastic masks, whimsical puppets, gorgeous scenery and original music, the magical, marvelous World of Beatrix Potter™ comes alive on stage. www.alysstephens.org. On the Tracks 6 - 11 p.m. Downtown Opelika. On the Tracks takes place twice per year, in the Fall and Spring in beautiful downtown Opelika. On the Tracks draws hundreds to Historic Downtown Opelika to enjoy a fun night on the town enjoying all that Opelika has to offer. Food vendors line the streets as live music is performed from a stage in the middle of Railroad Avenue. There are also musicians on 8th and 9th streets, playing for all to enjoy. A tasting trail takes participants through quaint shops and galleries throughout the square. Purchase individual tickets or tables by visiting www. onthetracks.org. Opelika High School Theatre presents “Bye, Bye Birdie” Opelika Center for Performing Arts. 1700 LaFayette Parkway. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students. For more information, OHTS@opelikaschools.org; 334745-9715. The Auburn Public Library Puppet Troupe See March 24 for details.

Opelika High School Theatre presents “Bye, Bye Birdie” See April 21 for details. French and Indian War Encampment Ft. Toulouse, Wetumpka. The French & Indian War encampment focuses attention on daily life at a French frontier fort and Creek village in the year 1756. Soldiers engage in mock battles each day and souvenirs replicating items of the time period will be available from merchants on site. Living history demonstrations of military, Indian and civilian life will take place on Saturday and Sunday throughout the day. www.fttoulousejackson.org. ART in the VILLAGE Annual Spring Festival Mountain Brook Art Association’s 36th Annual Spring Art Festival, featuring the region’s top artists. Voted Mountain Brook’s best event! Only local artists, many award-winning regionally recognized. Original paintings for sale in an outdoor setting in quaint Mountain Brook in Crestline Village. All sizes & price ranges. Jazz band. Village music and activities add to the fun. Crestline Elementary School sports field, on back street of Crestline Village at 25 Vine Street, Mountain Brook. www.mountainbrookartassociation.com. Wetumpka Craterfest Wetumpka Craterfest is a family-oriented music festival featuring a free Kidzone with pony rides, petting zoo, bounce houses, a train and a super-size swing, face painting, Dino Dig, along with fabulous concessions, local artwork and Crater exhibits, lectures and tours focusing on Wetumpka’s Marine Impact Crater. Tours will begin and end at the Wetumpka City Administrative Building, 408 S. Main Street, Wetumpka. www.wetumpkachamber.com. Alabama Book Festival Montgomery. This free public event is the state’s premier book festival, with some 4,000 people from around the state and the southeast converging to meet with and hear from their favorite authors and scholars. A children’s activity area makes this a day of fun for the entire family. The 2017 Festival will continue the tradition of promoting reading and literacy to Alabamians of all ages and backgrounds. www.alabamabookfestival.org. USS ALABAMA Living History Crew Drill History comes alive aboard the USS ALABAMA with the ship’s Living History Crew. These historical reenactors portray life aboard ship during WWII. They wear some of the ship’s original gear, conduct drills, and even swab the deck. They reenact “call to battle stations” and fight enemy airplanes during the YAK attack using the restored 20mm and 40mm guns mounted on the deck. 40s-style musical entertainment will be showcased. Enjoy a vintage military vehicle show on the grounds. Deep South Amateur Radio Club will broadcast live from the ship. www.ussalabama.com.

11th Annual Montevallo Arts Fest The Montevallo Arts Council will host its 11th annual art show in beautiful Orr Park. Over 50 local and regional artists will display their items for sale. Live music, food vendors, and children’s activities make this event a great outing for the entire family. Pets are welcome on a leash. www.montevalloartscouncil.org. Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris Opelika SportsPlex. A family-friendly Walk/Run raising awareness of diabetes, and an opportunity for participant fundraising efforts to make it possible for kids to attend Camp Seale Harris for kids and families living with diabetes. You can join us at 2017 Walk events in Birmingham, Mobile, Auburn/Opelika, and Dothan or be a “virtual walker” to support diabetes awareness and Camp Seale Harris! www.firstgiving.com. Music & Miracles Superfest Jordan-Hare Stadium, Auburn. The Music & Miracles Superfest, which will benefit the Chicken Salad Chick Foundation, will feature performances by Kelsea Ballerini, Thomas Rhett, Blake Shelton and a special appearance by Lynard Skynard. Tickets can be purchased at www.musicandmiracles. com. Waverly ‘Old 280’ Boogie Standard Deluxe, Waverly. Mark your calendar for the original Old 280 “EARTH DAY” Boogie (17th Annual) Multi-Cultural Music & Arts Festival on the grounds of Standard Deluxe Inc. in Waverly, featuring Musical Performances by: Drivin N Cryin, Southern Culture on the Skids, Adam Hood, Revel in Dimes, Pine Hill Haints, and Blackberry Possum. www.standardeluxe.com. Columbus Symphony Orchestra Prokofiev’s Masterpiece RiverCenter for The Performing Arts, Columbus. Prokofiev’s all-encompassing Fifth Symphony may well be the best symphony written in the 20th century. Paired with Khachaturian’s electric violin concerto and Mussorgsky’s powerful tone poem, this performance brings the season to a stunning conclusion. www.rivercenter.org Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park See April 1 for details. Remarkable Reptiles See April 1 for details. Homeschool Earth Day FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. www.gastatepareks. org/FDRoosevelt. Geared towards families who homeschool, but open to other families. Celebrate earth day with a walk, nature lab and take-home craft. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the park afterwards. Meet at the Stone Picnic Shelter #1 next to the Liberty Bell Pool. $5 per child ages 4 & up. Parents free. Extra adults $5. $5 parking. 706-663-4858. Saturday STEM See April 1 for details.

Sunday, April 23 French and Indian War Encampment See April 22 for details. USS ALABAMA Living History Crew Drill See April 22 for details.

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FamilyCalendar K-12 Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 1:30-3:00 p.m. We’ll be working on pop culture collages working in mixed-media (paper, pens, pencils, and markers, magazine images, stamps, woodblocks, etc.). Grownups are asked to join in the fun and remain with their child for the project. Please register to guarantee a space and materials. We’ll be doing some printmaking today and finishing off our works with watercolor paints. www. jcsm.auburn.edu. Opelika High School Theatre presents “Bye, Bye Birdie” See April 21 for details.

Monday, April 24 Young Writer’s Club See April 3 for details. Teen Writer’s Club See April 3 for details.

Tuesday, April 25 Baby Time See March 28 for details.

Wednesday, April 26 Food Entrepreneur Conference Auburn University Food Systems Institute. Aspiring food entrepreneurs, small farmers and food processors are invited to get expert advice on topics such as selling to a big box store, labeling and testing, regulations, finances, and marketing, as well as “real-life” advice from successful food entrepreneurs, from 8 a.m. until 4 p.m. at the Auburn University Food Systems Institute. www.aufsi.auburn.edu. Toddler Time See March 29 for details.

Thursday, April 27 Auburn CityFest Juried Art Exhibition and Reception Enjoy a sneak preview of the works that will be on display during Auburn CityFest 2017 at the Historic Nunn-Winston House on the grounds of Kiesel Park. Artists from across the Southeast are invited to submit works for this competition. Jurors will present more than $1,000 in awards. Download an application at auburncityfest.com and submit your piece today! FREE. Food Entrepreneur Conference See April 26 for details. Old-Time Music Festival April 27 - 30. The 9th Annual Lee County Gathering Old-Time Music Festival will be held at Pioneer Park in Loachapoka. There will be instruction for the mountain dulcimer, hammered dulcimer, bass, penny whistle, autoharp, banjo, fiddle, mandolin, ukelele, sacred harp singing, Native American flute, clogging, spirituals and more! For more information call (334) 887-3007 or email lchs1968@hotmail.com. A Little Lunch Music See March 30 for details.

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

Museum After Hours See March 30 for details.

special appearances; and much more! This free outdoor arts and crafts festival is held RAIN or SHINE. For more information visit www.auburncityfest.com. FREE.

Preschool Storytime See April 6 for details. Gamers Society See March 30 for details.

Russell Marine - In Water Boat Show See April 28 for details.

Friday, April 28 Russell Marine - In Water Boat Show The Ridge Marina, Alexander City/Lake Martin. The Southeast’s largest inland, in-water boat show at the Ridge Marina on beautiful Lake Martin. Over 100 boats on display, come out and take a demo ride in your next boat. 10 a.m. until 5 p.m., Friday, Saturday and Sunday. www.RussellMarine.net, on facebook or call 256-4960079 for more details. Opelika High School Theatre presents “Bye, Bye Birdie” See April 21 for details. Interstate Mullet Toss and Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party What started as just a reason to party has become one of the biggest events on the Gulf Coast. Those who participate in the Mullet Toss will throw a dead mullet over the state line of Florida and Alabama to see who gets the farthest. Not to mention a great excuse to throw a weekend long party, with a lot of fun activities, great music and food! www.florabama.com. Magic City Art Connection Birmingham. Visitors will enjoy art from more than 200 juried artists from around the country, more than 40 interactive art workshops and activities for kids, mouthwatering food creations from renowned chefs of Birmingham’s finest restaurants, 100 wines and many craft beers from around the world to sample, great live music and other cultural performances on various stages, large scale art and architecture installations and so much more. Linn Park. www.magiccityart.com. “Mamma Mia” RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of Abba’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship! A preshow dinner is available at 6:15 p.m. for this performance. www.rivercenter.org. Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park See April 1 for details.

Saturday, April 29 CSO Symphony on the Sand at Callaway Gardens Sit on the shores of Robin Lake enjoying music of the Columbus Symphony Orchestra under the stars on a Spring night. Enhance your night with gourmet food baskets and seasonal flower arrangements from the Gardens. Advance tickets start at $25; tickets at the gate the day of the event start at $30. Gates will open at 5 p.m. The concert begins at 8 p.m. www.callawaygardens.com or call 800.852.3810. Opelika High School Theatre presents “Bye, Bye Birdie” See April 21 for details. 17th Annual Auburn CityFest Peace, Love and CityFest from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. at Kiesel Park. Enjoy live music; food, nonprofit organizations, arts & crafts and fine arts vendors, children’s activities;

TroyFest TroyFest, held in honor of Jean Lake, is the premier fine art & craft festival for the central Alabama region. The weekend long show draws upwards of 10,000 people to downtown Troy to celebrate the arts. As always, a wonderful selection of art, food, entertainment and activities will be offered for people of all ages. Come and join us in being a part of this year’s festivities. www. troyfestarts.com. The Fitzgerald Gala Montgomery. The Fitzgerald Museum’s 23rd Annual Gala and Silent Auction. This party is a 1920s-themed fundraiser at the world’s only Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum. One of Montgomery’s most unique affairs. For more information, email fitzgeraldmuseum@gmail.com or call 334.264.4222. www.thefitzgeraldmuseum.org. Interstate Mullet Toss and Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party See April 28 for details. Magic City Art Connection See April 28 for details. Bo Bikes Bama 2017 Mark your calendars for the 6th annual Bo Bikes Bama. Our annual silent auction will be held the evening before the ride, on April 28th at The Red Barn at Ag Heritage Park on the campus of Auburn University. We offer 60- and 20-mile routes.

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Girl Scouts University Day Columbus Museum. This special program is held in conjunction with Girl Scouts of Historic Georgia, The National Infantry Museum, and Oxbow Meadows. Girl Scout troops will visit the Museum throughout the day to participate in a self-guided scavenger hunt to earn part of their unique patch. www. columbusmuseum.com. Remarkable Reptiles See April 1 for details. Young Eagles Day See March 25 for details. Saturday STEM See April 1 for details.

Sunday, April 30 Russell Marine - In Water Boat Show See April 28 for details. TroyFest See April 29 for details. Interstate Mullet Toss and Gulf Coast’s Greatest Beach Party See April 28 for details. Opelika High School Theatre presents “Bye, Bye Birdie” See April 21 for details. Magic City Art Connection See April 28 for details.

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FamilyCalendar May 1 Literacy Classics Club “To Kill a Mockingbird” by Harper Lee. Auburn Public Library. 1:00-2:30 p.m. A book discussion group for you to divulge your inner literati! Teens, grades 8-12, can join us for hot beverages and lively discussion as we dissect some of the most influential pieces of western literature. Following the discussion, participants are invited to create projects to supplement what they gained from their experience. Craft supplies are provided and participation is voluntary.

May 4 - 7 2017 Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival Pilots from across the U.S will participate and the festival will include balloon glows Friday and Saturday night, the World Famous Disc Connected K-9’s Frisbee Dog Show, Carnival rides, Arts and Crafts vendors and great food and entertainment. The festival grounds, located at 18507 US Highway 98 West in Foley, are open Friday from 2 p.m. - 10 p.m. and Saturday from 6 a.m. - 10 p.m. www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com.

May 6 12th Annual Garden in the Park Opelika Municipal Park. All items sold at the event are handmade or natural items. Some items to expect are pottery, plants, children’s clothes, jewelry and picture frames. Entertainment is provided by local dance groups and schools. Farmer Brown Party Animals will have a variety of animals for children to feed. There is no admission fee, but food is accepted for Food Bank of East Alabama. Please leave all dogs at home. tipi@ keepopelikabeautiful.com. 9th Annual Kentucky Derby Auction & Dinner Storybook Farm, Opelika. Looking for a place to don extravagant hats, sip mint juleps, enjoy cuisine from the finest restaurants from Opelika/Auburn, and watch the Kentucky Derby around the same four-legged creatures that inspire “The Greatest Two Minutes in Sports”? Look no further than Storybook Farm. Be inspired by distinguished guest speakers, Tim and Kim Hudson, and get your game-face on for the live auction and giveaways! www.hopeonhorseback.org. 38th Annual Chunnenuggee Fair Juried fine arts and crafts fair with live entertainment, food and crafts vendors, children’s games, door prizes and cake sale. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Union Springs. 334-7384060. www.chunnenuggeefair.com. George Washington Carver Commemorative Festival Downtown Tuskegee. Annual community co-sponsored event commemorating the life and work of Dr. George Washington Carver with music, arts, crafts and other multi-generational activities. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. 334-7277798. The Flimp Festival Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. The MMFA’s annual celebration of imagination, creativity, and good humor will offer fun for all ages in the many activities of Flimp! www.mmfa.org. Yatta Abba Day in Abbeville Abbeville. Yatta Abba is the Creek Indian expression

for “Grove of Dogwoods.” Each year the community celebrates the beginning of spring and the blooming of the dogwoods with a local festival filled with entertainment, garden items, art, crafts, children’s activities, food vendors, antique cars, and trivia contests. A sock hop the night before at the community center kicks off the event. Blue grass, gospel, pop, and country music fill the air.

a traditional duathlon for adults and teens looking for a good challenge, a short kid-sized course for younger adventurers, and a fun run for the littles looking to get in on the fun but may not be quite as confident on the bike. www.triauburnal.com.

Derby Day at the Stables Children’s Harbor, Lake Martin. 4 – 6 p.m. Ladies bring out your hats and guys dig out your seersucker for Derby Day at the Stables. This annual event is a fundraiser for Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin. Join us for a lot of fun as we cheer on our favorite horses during the “Run For The Roses” and some great food and great music. www.RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com, like us on Facebook (Russell Lands On Lake Martin, The Stables At Crossroads) or call 256-397-1019.

Memorial Day Weekend at Callaway Gardens Our Memorial Day Weekend Festival features the 58th Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament® and a host of other fun attractions at Robin Lake Beach including live music, the beach activities, kids zones, great food, drink specials and much more. Come early and stake out your spot on the beach to soak up rays and take in all the action. For more information, visit www.masterswaterski.com.

Southern Makers May 6 and 7. Montgomery. Southern Makers celebrates the Year of Alabama Makers with a festival in Montgomery. Ranging from experts in architecture to art to fashion to repurposing and everything in between, the events are created for makers (and enthusiasts), by makers as a platform to come together in one central location to network, learn and inspire and cultivate that southern soul that keeps Alabama and Southern Makers unique and special. Visit website for event schedule, www.southernmakers.com.

May 13 Annual Fishing Rodeo Duck Pond Path, Auburn. Bring your lucky fishing pole and we will supply the bait. Door prizes will be given out to lucky participants and prizes will be awarded to the biggest fish caught in each age category. We will also give out an award for the most fish caught overall. This event is a great chance to bring kids and their parents together with America’s favorite pastime...FISHING! www.auburnalabama.org/parks Paddlin’ 4 Paws Cardboard Boat Regatta Races Lake Wedowee. A fun-raiser Randolph County High School. Join us for the Cardboard Boat Races on beautiful Lake Wedowee. Free Admission, Free Parking, and Lots of Food and Fun! Watermelon Eating Contest, Pet Parade, Dunking Booth, and Silent Auction for your entertainment and participation! Who will float, but more importantly, who will SINK? Call for location and more information. 256-276-3901.

May 14 Mother’s Day Special Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo. All Moms receive free admission to the Montgomery Zoo and the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

May 21 Chewacla Off-Road Duathlon Chewacla State Park, Auburn. A new off-road race series will be held at Chewacla State Park featuring an adult off-road duathlon for adults in the morning, and a kid’s duathlon on the same day to make it a family affair. We designed 3 difference courses suitable for all abilities;

May 26 -29

Ongoing Chick-fil-A Family Night at Tigertown Every Thursday night. 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 2017 Fiber Arts: Curves and Edges, March 22 - April 28. New fiber works by current members of Studio 222. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn. www.auburnalabama.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. Spring Flower Show Jasmine Hill, Wetumpka, Al. April 7 – 30. Spring Flower Show at Jasmine Hill features Southern flowering shrubs throughout this 20-acre garden location just north of Montgomery. Open Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. and Sundays. Sylacauga’s 9th Annual Magic of Marble Festival April 4 - 15. Come see Sylacauga’s beautiful white marble and featured sculptors in action at the city’s Blue Bell Park. Free. www.bbcomerlibrary.net/marblefestival or call Chairperson, Ted Spears at 256-267-6655. XBAR Fitness For Youth For all fitness levels. Mondays 5:15 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. $65/6 weeks. Megan.Linge@gmail.com.

Performances Alabama Shakespeare Festival • “The Two Gentlemen of Verona”. Through May 13. Proteus is in love with Julia until he gets an eyeful of his best friend’s girl, Silvia. When friends turn

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FamilyCalendar into rivals things quickly go comic as they clash with bandits, a bad-mannered dog, an angry father and a girl who won’t be dumped. This condensed version of Shakespeare’s first play is sure to be a big hit with all ages! Recommended ages nine and up. • “Sherlock Holmes.” Through May 13. A new adaptation of the Sherlock Holmes story by Geoffrey Sherman, this gripping tale of the world’s most famous detective features amazing twists and turns, accompanied by a healthy dose of comedy. Recommended for ages nine and up. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. www.asf.net “Avenue Q” April 27 - May 13. Won Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, this adult-themed musical tells the timeless story of a recent college grad named Princeton who moves into a shabby New York apartment all the way out on Avenue Q. He soon discovers that although the residents seem nice, it’s clear that this is not your ordinary neighborhood. Together, Princeton and his new-found friends struggle to find jobs, dates, and their ever-elusive purpose in life. Springer Opera House, Columbus, GA. www.springeroperahouse.org

Support & Parenting Groups 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 334-705-8877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com.

Caregiver Support Group Caring for a family member or friends can be rewarding, but it’s not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your parents, spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn ways to cope with every day stresses of caring for someone you love. Gain tools and resources to help you on your journey. This program is supported by the Opelika Sportsplex, Lee-Russell Agency on Aging and HomeInstead Senior Care. This group is open to the public. Meets the last Monday of each month at 12:30 p.m. at Opelika Sportsplex AAC. Instructors are: Valeri White (Sportsplex), Bridgette Sager (Home Instead Senior Care), Lisa Askew (Lee-Russell Council of Gov). 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 334-8263082; 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. La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. @ Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, Airport Plaza, 323 Airport Road Suite E, Auburn. For more information call LLL of Auburn/Opelika, Leader, Josie Ettinger (h)334257-3950 or (c)334-740-8780.

Auburn UMC 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. Auburn United Methodist Church.

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 years. Free! 334-209-2580.

Bible Study Fellowship Held at Parkway Baptist Church, Thursdays at 10 a.m., (334) 546-1386. 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. 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.

Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

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. Parent Educational Workshop - Autism 2nd Tuesday of each month, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika. Parent Support Group - Autism 1st Monday (unless national holiday), 9:00-11:00 a.m. Location varies so check www.leecountyautism.com for complete information. Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama offers 2nd Saturdays, group classes, and more. Contact Penny Messer at 334-444-6827. Email smoea@bellsouth.net. Website www.smoea.vpweb.com or find us on facebook. 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. Therapeutic Foster Care Program Foster a Child’s Future Today - Become a Therapeutic Foster Parent! Certification classes are free. Please call Joanna Fisher Champagne at Lee County Youth Development Center’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program. (334) 749-2996, Ext. 311 - You can make an eternal difference in a child’s life! Trinity UMC (Opelika) Mom’s Morning Out Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45–12. $15 per child, $5 each additional. Trinity United Methodist Church.

Sports

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 MOPS 1st Wednesday of each month, September-May. 9–11:30 a.m. Trinity United Methodist Church, Opelika. Meetings open to moms with preschool children ages 5 years and under. $5 per meeting; childcare $5 per child. $25 yearly membership dues. www.facebook.com/ AuburnOpelikaMOPS; AUMOPS@yahoo.com.

MOPS of Auburn We meet the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at Auburn United Methodist Church from 9:30 - 11:30. Childcare is provided, although we ask that you make reservations if possible. Meetings are open to mothers with children ages 5 and under. www.facebook.com/ mopsofauburn mopsofauburn@gmail.com.

Lee County Department of Human Resources Now recruiting foster/adoptive families. To learn more about fostering and adoption please call our office at 334-737-1100. Please join us in this endeavor to help our foster children. 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 welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net for more information. 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.

Auburn University Equestrian March 20-26. Auburn University Baseball Mar. 31, April 1, 2, 4, 21, 22, 23, 25, May 5, 6, 7. Auburn University Softball Mar. 24, 26, April 7, 8, 9, 12, 14, 15, 16, 29, 30 Auburn University Soccer Mar. 25. Auburn University Tennis Mar. 24, 26, 30, April 1, 7, 9. Auburn Track and Field April 7, 8, 21, 22. Columbus Cottonmouths March 31. Columbus Lions April 2, 22, May 6, 20.

Please send your calendar events to Kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com! We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

The primary task of a secret agent, detective or spy is to collect information. And as a child’s inquisitive nature grows, the quest for obscured information embedded in their daily lives often leads them to seek out play roles that place them in the middle of a mystery. They create their own cases to crack, secrets to reveal and mysteries to solve. Self sufficiency, independent action and sleuthing talent are some of the beneficial skills that can emerge from pretendplay that casts them as clue finders. The following items are ideal for equipping the young clue-collector on his mission explore mysteries, real and imagined!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Ultimate Night Vision Goggles

Room Defender (SmartLab)

(Spy Gear)

A simple door alarm gets the high-tech treatment with the Room Defender. Designed with kids’ tastes and abilities in mind, this door unit comes with instructions that can guide kids through basic programming that lets them choose the alerts, and levels of room access for friends and family. From a range of sound effects to access themes that include secret knocks, codes and key cards, the Room Defender offers young minds the means to service their own fun security through simple programming. Empowering a kid to create a safe and secure space while learning basic computer input skills is easy with SmartLab’s Room Defender.

Kidzlane Walkie Talkie

Bionic Ear Electronic Listening Device

The Ultimate Night Vision Goggles allow kids to peek through the black curtain of darkness and discover what lies hidden just behind it. Using infrared technology, these goggles project a specific stealth beam that highlights what is cloaked in darkness. When the infrared goggle attachment is flipped down into place, the viewer can see for distances of up to 30 feet. Perfect for evening missions and nocturnal backyard safaris, this hands-free resource peels back the curtain of darkness and lets young sleuths discover the wonders that can emerge at night.

(Kidzlane)

Young investigators are best equipped when they have a communications tool that keeps the information flowing. Lightweight and durable walkie talkies give kids the means to share discoveries, directions and news as it happens and from a distance. The range of the Kidzlane walkies is exceptionally broad, exceeding one mile. With three separate channels, kids can use these walkies to host exclusive communication for competitive games, secret plans and more. Simple push-to-talk operations and long battery life ensures that kids can keep the conversation going for hours. Recommended for kids and families when communication is important to the mission.

(Scientific Explorer)

Previously imperceptible by distance and distraction, the Bionic Ear lets operators pick out specific sounds and voices from up to 300 feet away. Using the the principles of a parabolic reflector, the Bionic Ear dish collects sound waves from the distant selected source. The dish focuses the specific sound toward a highly sensitive microphone that excludes background noise and helps isolate the target sounds. The collected sound is then transmitted to the operator’s earphones with maximum fidelity. Whether it’s conversations, bird calls or other sounds that deserve investigation, the Bionic Ear is an ideal sleuthing tool in a young detective’s toolbox.

Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

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Beauty and the Beast

Kong: Skull Island

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated Beauty and the Beast (2017) PG for some action violence, peril and frightening images. Based on the now classic Beauty and the Beast from 1991, director Bill Condon pulls out all the stops with this animation-to-live-action conversion. Those who have watched and re-watched his source material will have no problem picking out the familiar storyline and famous songs amid the lavish sets, amazing costumes and reimaged production numbers. As expected, the story follows Belle (played by Emma Watson), a young bookish woman who doesn’t quite fit in with the others living in her French provincial town. Despite being called odd and becoming the object of some abuse, Belle’s good looks and the romantic challenge she presents still attract the attention of the village’s most eligible bachelor Gaston (Luke Evans). When she declines his proposal, preferring reading to marrying him, she awakens the fury of an ego scorned. Meanwhile Belle’s father Maurice (Kevin Kline) stumbles upon a forbidden fortress in the forest where he unwittingly becomes the prisoner of its master, a terrifying Beast (Dan Stevens). When the devoted daughter discovers the situation, she selflessly offers to take his place. After the switch is accepted by the cruel creature, Maurice uses his freedom to try and round up a rescue party even though his pleas for help are met by mocking and scorn. Unbeknownst to the grieving Dad, life within the stone walls proves better for Belle than it at first appeared. And the presence of the beautiful stranger brings hope to the other residents of the enchanted castle who are also held captive by a magical curse. But before the spell can be broken some hard hearts must first be softened. This remake adds a few embellishments to the original plot, including some insights into the characters’ backstories, along with extra songs. Belle is endowed with a more feminist attitude, that is expressed in her love of literacy, defiance of convention and courage in the face of fearful circumstances. And Gaston’s sidekick LeFou (Josh Gad) is depicted as effeminate, as well as briefly shown dancing with another man. These alterations may alarm family audiences, even though the portrayals are subtle. In truth, most youngsters are less likely to notice Condon’s admitted agenda than they are to be scared by the violence shown here. Because of this, the movie is likely best suited for older children and adults. Those who are fans of the 1991 film will appreciate the way this production pays homage to the sentimentality they undoubtedly will be bringing along with them. This visual spectacle is sure to shake out a few more dollars for the studio, even if the 2017 version of the fairytale expands the message of looking for inner beauty and having empathy toward those who are different into broader territory.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: D+ Sexual Content: B Profanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated Kong: Skull Island PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and for brief strong language. In Kong: Skull Island, it’s 1973 and the Vietnam War has just ended. It appears mankind has claimed every last spec of the world. But Bill Randa (John Goodman) believes there is still something on the globe we don’t know about. When NASA’s first global mapping satellite discovers an unchartered landmass, the firm believer in monsters is convinced the curious locale holds a big secret. Yet the only way Randa can convince Senator Willis (Richard Jenkins) to mobilize a military escort to take a team to “Skull Island” is to fabricate the intent of the mission. Suggesting that there may be valuable things to discover, and that the US does not want the Russians getting there first, does the trick. Cloaked and surrounded by a continual storm that has mysteriously claimed a variety of ships over the centuries, the army calls upon Colonel Preston Packard (Samuel L. Jackson) to head up the expedition to the island. Also joining the entourage is Mason Weaver (Brie Larson), a photojournalist looking for an exclusive story, and former British-Special-Forces-turned-professionaljungle-guide James Conrad. Finally, there’s a bevy of other participants who will ultimately become collateral damage and tasty morsels for what’s ahead. To its credit, this movie reveals its monster early in the game. Purported to be the biggest Kong ever to grace the silver screen, the digital creature is imposing and protective of his natural habitat. Slapping down Huey helicopters like a camper going after mosquitoes, members of this crew with minimal speaking roles are soon dispatched in flames. However, the secrets this island holds go far beyond the giant ape. A wide assortment of gigantic zoological splendors awaits, and most of them are happy to encounter some fresh meat. The assortment of food choices and jungle dwelling munching monsters fills much of the film’s runtime with where big things are seen being devoured by even bigger things. If the purpose is to make you go “oooo!”, then the script works well. You’ll also hear several mild and moderate profanities, as well as a sexual expletive. With the body count quickly climbing, and Randa’s ulterior motives revealed, Packard initiates a power play and divides the group between those who want to kill anything that could pose danger to the outside world and those who fear disturbing the unique ecosystem could create even greater problems. One thing is certain though, the creators of this fictitious realm are hoping Kong will live long and prosper at the box office.

What Parents need to know about Kong: Skull Island...

Violence: Non-graphic and explicit violence is pervasive in this film. Numerous deaths are implied and depicted from being beaten, chocked, crushed, impaled, eaten, stabbed, shot, thrown/falling from heights, and fiery explosions. Shrapnel and corpses are strewn across the landscape. Plentiful explosions result in death, destruction and some characters are caught on fire. Soldiers frequently engage in hand-to-hand conflict, along with the use of knifes, swords, guns, bombs, poisonous gas, flame throwers and grenades. Large and dangerous creatures are portrayed, such as apes, water buffalo, pterodactyls, carnivorous dinosaurs, octopus and insects. Bloody wounds, body fluids/internal organs and dismembered body parts are shown, along with people being eaten alive. Sexual Content: A brothel is depicted and women are seen in scanty clothing and underwear. Shirtless men show off their muscles for a female photographer. Profanity: A sexual expletive is heard once in a non-sexual context. Infrequent use of scatological slang, along with mild and moderate profanity. Alcohol / Drug Use: A man lights a cigarette. Alcohol consumption and possible drug use is seen in a brothel setting.

What Parents need to know about Beauty and the Beast (2017)... Violence: A character is shot three times with a gun -- two of these on screen, no blood is shown. Wolves attack characters on two occasions, injuries result. Characters are mocked and bullied as well as verbally and physically abused. Characters fight with swords and attempt to push one another from tall buildings. Some scenes may frighten young children. Sexual Content: Infrequent, mild sexual innuendo including remarks implying same gender attraction. Females are seen in cleavage revealing dresses and modest underwear. Men and women embrace and kiss. Profanity: A single use of deity and a French religious term. Alcohol / Drug Use: Implied alcohol use in a pub setting. Auburn Opelika Parents I April 2017

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THE ADVENTURES IN

Math & Science

2017 Summer Camp Sessions

Hosted by the Alabama School of Math and Science June 5-9, June 12-16, & June 19-23 Located in Mobile, AL

Launch a Rocket Kayak in Mobile Bay Build a Robot

Solve a Crime Prepare for the ACT Day & Overnight Camp

Grades 6-10

Register by April 1: $360 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $260 Day Camp (includes lunch) Register after April 1: $385 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $285 Day Camp (includes lunch) The cost to stay the weekend between Sessions 1 and 2 is an additional $185 (includes trip to water park) Applications, more information, and course descriptions are online at WWW.ASMS.NET . COURSE SAMPLING ACT Prep, Algebra Review, Exploring Inner Space, Marine Biology, CSI: Mobile, Phun Physics, Using Java, Robotics, Field Biology, Psychology, Math Puzzles, Labs of Doom, Rocketry, Origami, Speak Up, Light Metals and Enameling, Apps for Smart Devices, and many more.

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