Auburn - Opelika Parents Child Care Issue

Teens and Screens

Is social media use a binge behavior or has it become a true addiction?

Don’t Sweat It Tips for New Parents

Don’t stress over these eight things.

Finding Mom Friends

Tips for getting out there if making friends after kids has been difficult.

Child Care Guide

Find details on local daycares, MMO’s and preschools in the area.

On The Cover

Amora and Aydon Turner are the children of Annquanetta and Wynton Turner. They both attend Big Blue Marble in Auburn. Amora is 4 years old and loves unicorns, the colors pink and purple, watching Adley on YouTube, and eating chicken wings. Aydon is 3 years old and loves fruit, watching Spider Man on his tablet, playing with any type of ball, and being outside.

It’s time to get out there! Spring is just beginning to bloom, which means warmer days and extended afternoons. After a long winter of being indoors, kids (and parents) are ready to venture outdoors and explore parks, main streets, and spring festivals.

Spring in Auburn and Opelika is bustling with activities and events for the whole family. In this month’s calendar, you’ll find various outdoor events to check out. Looking for a fun and educational event for the kids?

Be sure to visit with the local birds of prey during this spring’s Wing Fling shows. There will multiple chances to watch eagles soar and hawks swoop on April 7 and 8 (A-Day Weekend) and May 5 and 11 at the Edgar B. Carter Educational Amphitheater, off Shug Jordan Parkway. Each year, Auburn Parks and Recreation hosts CityFest at Kiesel Park, so mark your calendar for April 29 to experience tons of entertainment and live music, arts and craft booths, food vendors, a children’s fun zone, and so much more. Another great outdoor event is the Global Community Day Festival, to be held on Auburn University’s intramural fields on April 15. You’ll discover tastes of the world, fashion from other countries, arts and crafts unique to various cultures, and explore international products and services. Spring also brings back Saturday farmers markets to our area. O Grows in Opelika will feature all the local farm fresh produce, plants, and canned and baked goods. You might even see a few farm animals too.

Thinking about exploring spring and having family fun, this is an excellent time to remind moms to get out there too. If you are like me, 95% of our time is spent on our children’s schedules and their daily needs, leaving us at the bottom of the list at times. When was the last time you took a moment to connect with other moms outside of the everyday interactions with moms also on mom duty? In this month’s feature article, Finding Mom Friends: Tips for Getting Out There, the author suggests that stepping outside your comfort zone and making new connections can be a great way to recharge for your family and make lasting friendships that add to your support system. A great start would be to find like-minded women while doing some of your favorite hobbies. Think about what recharges your batteries. Do you enjoy hiking, sewing, baking, group exercise, or reading the newest novels? How about taking these interests and finding other moms who are also interested in baking classes, book clubs, yoga classes, and nature exploring? Be purposeful in adding activities that connect you with other moms with similar interests. The first step is always the hardest, but start small and find your people in the places that naturally fit your interests. Don’t be afraid to get out of your comfort zones and be the first one to initiate conversations and plan get-togethers. Before long, these connections could grow into some of your closest friendships.

The trees are budding, and flowers are blooming, luring us to come outside into the warm, beautiful outdoors! Spend your spring weekends enjoying markets, art shows, and park days. From one parent to another, get out there and bloom too.

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

Contributing Writers

Kristi Bush, LSW

Dr. Jordan Jensen

Gabriele Jones

Sarah Lyons

Pam Molnar

Works of Wonder Therapy

Cover Photography

Keightley Garnett

Simple Joy Photography www.simplejoyphoto.com

President Jason Watson

Director of Sales

Justin Sumner

(334) 209-0552

Ad Design

Tim Welch

Web Content Manager

Scott Davis

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Teaching Kids to Communicate Effectively

Do you have difficulty engaging in healthy conversations with your coworkers, friends, and family? John and Julie Gottman are married PhDs who have dedicated their lives to researching the commonalities in healthy relationships. They have discovered four communication styles that predict family disruptions with 90% accuracy: criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling. The Gottman’s research has also determined that everyone can learn to communicate in a manner that heals the wounds caused by these destructive patterns and limits negative interactions from occurring in the future.

Replace criticism with a gentle start-up: Criticism is an attack that uses “you” language. Criticism says, “You never do what I ask you to do. You are so forgetful.” Instead, try voicing your complaints with a kind and honest, gentle start-up. A gentle start-up uses “I” language, addresses a specific complaint, and suggests a solution. For example, a gentle start-up says, “I do not like when you forget what I ask you to do. How can I help you remember these tasks in the future?”

Replace contempt with appreciation: Contempt is the most harmful of destructive communication patterns. Contempt is mean, extremely disrespectful, and full of sarcasm (which children do not understand). Contempt intends to make the recipient feel unwanted and unloved. The antidote for contempt is appreciation. We show appreciation when we take the time to notice all the positive actions and attitudes of the person we communicate with. Children need to hear what they do well. Even when they fail, we must praise them for every attempt they make to do the right thing. Research has shown that children need an 8 to 1 praise-to-correction ratio to persevere through discouragement.

Replace defensiveness with taking responsibility: As parents, we sometimes respond inappropriately toward our children out of anger or fear. When we do this, we must take responsibility for our wrongdoings. We cannot blame or justify our behavior on anyone else. As adults, it is our duty to take responsibility for all the mistakes that we make. When we admit what we have done wrong and apologize to our children, we repair any

fractures in the relationship, teach our children how to learn and grow from mistakes, and model humility.

Replace stonewalling with self-soothing: Stonewalling is when we separate from others to avoid conflict or show disapproval.

Stonewalling children is extremely detrimental. Children need us to draw close, especially when their negative behavior is a reaction to big emotions. They need to know that we can handle their difficult feelings and behaviors as a building block for them to learn how to selfmanage. However, parenting is challenging and exhausting. Take the time to learn the skill of self-compassion and practice it. Knowing how to self-soothe allows you to parent well in challenging moments.

As a parent, it is your responsibility to teach these effective communication skills to your children. First, make sure that you do not model criticism, contempt, defensiveness, or stonewalling when you communicate with your children or others. Second, actively teach and make your children practice a gentle start-up, showing appreciation, taking responsibility, and self-soothing.

When a conversation goes completely wrong, have a “redo” when everyone is calm so that your children can see productive communication in practice.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

Wing Fling at the Auburn Raptor Center

On April 7 and 8, one of Auburn’s most popular programs offers fans the opportunity to see a raptor show where they will experience birds of prey eye-to-eye and watch as they swoop overhead. During the show, hawks, falcons, eagles and other birds of prey are free-flown from towers and around the amphitheater, enabling visitors to see these raptors flying up close. Visitors will also learn interesting facts about natural history, conservation and rehabilitation. This educational presentation is appropriate for all ages. Each show is unique and features a variety of different raptor species. All birds used in the programs are permanent residents that are non-releasable due to prior injuries or human imprinting. The Southeastern Raptor Center is a division of the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. 1350 Pratt-Carden Drive, Auburn. www.vetmed.auburn.edu/raptor/raptor-center-events/

Global Community Day Festival

April 15 is a day for bringing international and non-international communities together to learn and experience global culture, history, and related opportunities.

Join us for funfilled activities for the whole family, make connec tions, enjoy arts and crafts, an international fash ion show, music

from K-pop group, dance showcase by international student groups and South Africa dance groups, and many others. Activities include an International fair showcasing various products and services across the globe, business and trade opportunities, internationally focused family activities such as games, sports and musical shows, Taste of the World: food and drink tasting, fashion exhibition, international vendors selling handmade art, crafts and other goods. Located on the Auburn University Intramural Fields. www.auburn.edu/outreach/global/communityday.htm#overview.

Easter on the Square Hosted by Opelika SportsPlex

April 8 in Downtown Opelika from10:00-11:00am. Ages 2nd grade and younger invited. 10:00 a.m.Toddler egg hunt; 10:30 a.m. - 4-year olds and Kindergarten egg hunt; 11:00 a.m. - 1st-2nd grade egg hunt. FREE and open to the public. www.opelika-al.gov/715/easter-on-the-square

Disney’s Frozen

The Broadway Musical Presented by Opelika High School Theater

Love is an open door. Fearless optimist Anna teams up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven and sets off on an epic journey to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everestlike conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom. Shows run April 21-23 and 28-30. Tickets are $15 for adults and $10 for students. Tickets are available in advance at GoFan.co https://gofan.co/app/school/AL11750 or at the door. All seats are general admission. Opelika Center for the Performing Arts, 1700 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika www.facebook.com/OpelikaHighTheatreSociety/

43rd Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Join Auburn Parks and Recreation, April 8, for the 43rd Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Kiesel Park, 520 Chadwick Lane, Auburn. 10:00am-12:00pm. This event is FREE to the public. www.auburnalabama.org/easteregg-hunt/

D1 Life Foundation 5K & Fun Run

Inaugural fundraising event to be held at Town Creek Park, 1150 South Gay Street, Auburn, on April 22. Join us in cel ebrating the inaugural D1 Life Foundation 5K & Fun Run! This race is in honor of AHS student Dylan Pegues, a dedicated brother, teammate & friend to all. The family can enjoy a relaxed 1-mile Fun Run or a challenging 5K which will start & finish at Town Creek. Just as D1 is synonymous with the highest level of competition in collegiate athletics, “Living a D1 Life” is living a life at the highest level of love, kindness and generosity through Christ. It’s truly the way Dylan lived his life. And it’s the way we should live ours. Visit www.d1life.org or http://runsignup.com/ Race/AL/Auburn/D1Life5K

O Grows Farmers Market Coming

Saturdays in April

This spring, Opelika’s local farmers market, located across the street from the Cultural Arts Center on Glenn Street near the community garden, will be hosting Saturdays at the Garden! Featuring arts and science activities, storytime, local vendors, fresh produce, and more! 254.744.0726.

1103 Glenn Street, Opelika. Spring Schedule:

Apr 1: No Fools Planting Prep Workshop

Apr 8: Spring Planting Weekend

Apr 15: Worm & Composting Workshop

Apr 22: Earth Day Tree Planting

Apr 29: Last Market of the Season

2023 Auburn CityFest: Jurassic Journey

Auburn’s largest free outdoor festival, April 29, featuring live music, arts & crafts, fine arts vendors, children’s activities, food and more! FREE to the public and is a rain or shine. Headlining Entertainment: Jurassic Kingdom...Be Prepared to Go Prehistoric! NO other “Puppet Show” compares to what Jurassic Kingdom has to offer! Not only will you get to see life-like dinosaurs in ACTION, you will also have the opportunity to touch, and interact with them throughout the show! Be prepared to meet 5-year-old, full-grown Velociraptor, Lucy, and many more at the 2023 Auburn CityFest! Special guests include Bama Air Dogs, Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, Southeastern Reptile Rescue, Southeastern Raptor Center, KoreaFest, Aubie, ArtFest Tent and much more. Kiesel Park, 520 Chadwick Lane, Auburn.www.auburncityfest.com

Chicago: May 3-4

After 25 years, Chicago is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmyshake: a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen. It’s no wonder Chicago has been honored with six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, a Grammy Award and thousands of standing ovations. As we celebrate its 25th anniversary—plus the return of Broadway and a new, all-star cast— you’ll see why the name on everyone’s lips is still Chicago. Gogue Performing Arts Center. 910 S. College St, Auburn. www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu/Online/default.asp

Sponsored by Cornerstone Family Chiropractic

Doing the Things You Want to Do

“The pain hurts all day at work…”, “I cannot turn my neck, and it’s affecting my golf game…”, and “I’d give anything to be able to get good sleep.” Our office has new practice members, who have never had chiropractic care before, come in with complaints like these. From doing the day-to-day job or trying to take care of ourselves, it’s no secret that pain often gets in the way of our ability to perform these functions.

This pain may have gone away for a while, possibly a temporary thing, like a cold or flu. It’s easy to disregard it at this point, but it returns. Maybe your low back was hurting at first, but now it’s your neck. Medicine was the fix for a while. Maybe you had to start stretching it out more for relief, but why does it keep returning? It is easy to quickly become frustrated when our actions are not producing the desired result.

Are our solutions truly addressing the cause, or are they simply masking the symptoms? Does it make sense to numb the pain or address the cause of the pain? This is a no-brainer. If it is within our power to address the cause of what keeps us from living the life we want, we’ll do what it takes.

A practice member we had to join our office, Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, recently stated the desire to deadlift without pain. However, with every reach down, the pain would light up in the low back, and with more weight on the lift, the more pain there was. Naturally, reducing the weight was the first solution, but the pain did not entirely go away. Additionally, this interfered with weightlifting goals set for the year.

Functional and structural testing showed segmental stress throughout the low back, likely the cause of his dysfunction. We reviewed what needed to improve with this and how this part of the nervous system, the body’s coordinator of all the other body’s systems, needed to look to function 100 percent. In this case, because your nervous system is needed for the muscles in your body to work properly, and if the nervous system is under stress, the muscles’ functions cannot work entirely as they should. Chiropractic aims to correct spinal positioning that stresses the nervous system so that it may work optimally.

Before care, function was determined to be around 50 percent capacity, and deadlift ability was limited. By the twelfth day of care, the first functional re-evaluation, function had increased to 80 percent, with no more pain reaching down for the weights, and the ability to lift a certain amount of weight was painless – this was a huge victory! Checking in at the three-month mark, function was at 90 percent. Again, the practice member had not experienced any pain moving toward the year’s weight goals.

This recent achievement is one of many we have the honor of witnessing. Who knows what will happen at 100 percent? If your looking to restore function, the nervous system is a good place to start. We hope you get to live the life you want to live, doing all the things you want to do.

Dr. Jordan Jensen earned his Bachleor’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences at Auburn University in 2013 and earned his Doctor of Chiropractic at Palmer College of Chiropractic in 2018. Following graduation, Dr. Jensen was accepted into the International Chiropractic Association’s Diplomate of Craniocervical Procedures postgraduate program, where his research encompasses Chiropractic’s application of advanced imaging and patient outcomes.

writing, read & research, Seuss Snacks, creation station with truffle a tree pencils with Mrs. Moore in the Media Center to searching for hidden Dr. Seuss characters and guessing how many red fish, blue fish are in the bowl...it was a Read Across America Week & Dr. Seuss Birthday to remember!! We love when our kids are SO excited about reading!

Autauga County Schools

ACA 3rd Graders Field Trip to Coca-Cola Space Center

Auburn Classical Academy’s 3rd grade class traveled to Columbus, GA to visit the

ACS Celebrates FACES Grant Recipients

For the first time since March 2020, FACES held a reception for grant recipients and the 13 Teachers of the Year! The ten grant recipients were awarded $2,000 each from FACES to further enrich their classrooms with initiatives like 2nd graders learning to fly drones at Auburn Early Education Center and students at Wrights Mill Road Elementary building hovercrafts with leaf blowers. The Elementary Teacher of the Year, Jenna Chapman (DMS), was presented the Diane Wilson Award, and the Secondary Teacher of the Year, Emily Murray (AHS), was presented the Carol Pittard Award! The Wilson and Pittard families hold public education close to their hearts and continue the legacy of Mrs. Wilson and Mrs. Pittard through these awards and their support of FACES. 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. Founded in 1986, FACES is a group of community citizens and business partners who have joined together to support and enhance the educational program of all Auburn City Students. Alabama House District 79 Representative, Joe Lovvorn, also attended the reception to donate a Community Service Grant in the amount of $4,000 to FACES, furthering the mission of the foundation.

LSA Fourth Graders Create Science in Action

Fourth Graders have been hard at work in Science class. They made models of transverse waves. Using wave properties along with gummy bears, they worked together to create such cool structures and see science in action!

OHS Senior Ashley Hilyer Wins ALET Debbie Rice Memorial Scholarship

On February 27, 2023, at the Alabama Leaders in Educational Technology (ALET) Conference in Montgomery, AL, Opelika High School Senior Ashley Hilyer was awarded the ALET Debbie Rice Memorial Scholarship. Each spring, the Alabama Leaders in Educational Technology organization awards a $10,000 college scholarship to a high school senior. The scholarship is named for the late Debbie Rice, a long-time leader in the organization who served as the Technology Director for Auburn City Schools until 2014. As stated in the most recent ALET newsletter, “Ms. Hilyer is an accomplished student and athlete. She plans to attend the University of Alabama pursuing a major in News Media and a minor in Computer Science. Among her accomplishments and certifications, Ashley has earned 2nd place in FBLA State Intro to Information Technology Competition 2021, Cyberpatriots Windows 10 Competition 2021-22, 3rd place in FBLA State Cybersecurity Competition 2022, MS Word, PPT, and Excel Certification, Copper Cabling Certification, Testout PC Pro Certification, and Testout Security. Her athletic resume includes being a member of Opelika High School’s Varsity swim, soccer, golf, and flag football teams.

ACS Hosts Employment Fair/Career Expo

Auburn High School held the 7th annual Employment Fair/Career Expo with more than 60 employers in attendance! With resumes in hand and attention to professionalism, students seeking internships or employment for this summer and fall were encouraged to attend to explore career paths and network with various businesses and organizations in Auburn. Since its inception in 2015, this event has produced many opportunities for students and initiated partnerships for AHS programs and employers in our community. The fair was coordinated by Auburn High School’s Work Based Learning teacher, Audrey Marshall, under the umbrella of Career Technical Education.

Autauga County Schools

Parkway Preschool Celebrates Suess

Such a fun Suess week at Parkway Preschool! So many fun Suess books and characters were explored.

Auburn High Named Alabama’s Teacher of the Year

Dr. Sara Ahnell, a French Teacher at Auburn High School, has been named the Southern Conference on Language Teaching (SCOLT) Teacher of the Year for Alabama! Dr. Ahnell is now a candidate for SCOLT Regional Teacher of the Year and formally recognized at the upcoming conference in Mobile. The mission of the Southern Conference on Language Teaching is the advancement of the study of modern and classical languages and their literatures and cultures at all levels of instruction.

It has been an amazing Teacher Appreciation week on campus. Thanks to our PTO for celebrating all of our educators. Each day was filled with gifts, food, yummy treats, love and gratitude! This year’s theme was BLOOM! Thanks to all of our teachers for helping each student, family and coworker “grow!” Special thanks go out to the Lee-Scott Academy PTO, committee chairs Calley Brady and Whitney Owens and the fantastic volunteers who served with them all week making sure our teachers were loved. Thank you to Long Pine Hospitality, Moe’s Southwest Grill, Cookies by Kristi, Gigi’s Cupcakes, Lulu’s Bakery, and ACRE for keeping everyone well fed.

Lee-Scott Student Competed at State Twirling Competition

Senior Kaitlyn Stewart

weekend in the Alabama State Twirling Competition and earned top 5 placing in numerous events. She always represents LSA so well, and even took time with some other LSA students who were also there.

Auburn High School Wins National Awards

AHS Mass Media won four national awards at the 2023 Intercollegiate Broadcast System (IBS) Awards Program!

The awards are as follows:

- Best Sports Program | AHS Countdown | Max Mesman, Cal Floyd, Taylor Gautney, and Fabiola Sanchez

- Best Sports Play-by-Play Broadcast | Auburn High Baseball vs. Alma Bryant

Doubleheader | Mattie Bingham and Evelyn Cherry

- Best Commercial/Promotion | AHS Mass Media Social Media and Website Teaser | Mattie Bingham and Evelyn Cherry

- Best High School Television Station in the Nation | Auburn High School – AHS Mass Media | Mattie Bingham, Evelyn Cherry, Rylee Watson, and Cal Floyd ACS congratulates these students and their instructor Mr. Jared Dillard on their hard work and accomplishments!

A CLASSICAL AND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

At Trinity, we strive to glorify God with the gifts He has given us. Our goal is to compete with humility and honor Christ through our hard work.

Autauga County Schools

LSA Art Students Win at District

Mrs. Beard and Mrs. Basgier took the 1st and 2nd place winners’ art from our school-wide art show to the AISA District Art Show competition at Macon-East Academy.

Congratulations to the following students for winning a 1st, 2nd or 3rd place ribbon at District! We also had 3 students win the “Best of Show” for their grade division! 1st place winners in grades K-8th will advance to the State Competition in April. Both 1st and 2nd place winners in the 9th-12th grade division will advance to State.

K-1st Grade:

Water Base: Charlotte Carter, 1st Place

Printmaking: Beau Weeks, 1st Place; Mattie Beckett Riggs, 2nd Place

Drawing (non-color): Hunter Beasley, 1st Place

Mixed Media: Piper Craig, 1st Place

Collage: Charlotte Moore, 2nd Place

Photography: Elizabeth McMurray, 1st Place (Best of Show);

Brooklyn Tosti, 2nd Place

2nd-3rd Grade:

Water Base: Saylor Stewart, 2nd Place; Parker Reynolds, 3rd Place

Printmaking: Isabella Ingram, 1st Place; Lily Brady, 2nd Place

Drawing (non-color): Campbell Culpepper, 3rd Place

Drawing (color): Ella Grace Dilworth, 2nd Place

Mixed Media: Lily Brady, 1st Place

Collage: Danielle Bruce, 1st Place

Photography: Channing Graf, 1st Place; Taylor Robertson, 2nd Place

4th-5th Grade:

Water Base: Ansley Nelms, 1st Place

Printmaking: Fitz Hewitt, 1st Place; Kyle Chang, 2nd Place

Drawing (non-color): Weslynn Hovey, 1st Place

Drawing (color): Olivia Lakeman, 1st Place (Best of Show); Mary Nicole Sumners, 2nd Place

Three-Dimensional Art/Crafts: Kate Whatley, 1st Place; Lil Gardner, 3rd Place

Mixed Media: Kate Whatley, 2nd Place; Steven Alfaro, 3rd Place

Collage: Ella Williams, 2nd Place

Drawing (non-color): Pie Clinard, 1st; Eleanor Harrison, 3rd

Drawing (color): Pie Clinard, 1st Place

Three-Dimensional Art/Crafts: Pie Clinard, 1st Place; Sadie Terrell, 2nd Place

Mixed Media: Eleanor Harrison, 1st Place; Pie Clinard, 2nd Place

Collage: Campbell Thompson, 1st Place; Willow Grace Parrish, 2nd Place

Photography: Eron Bridges, 2nd Place

9th-12th Grade:

Painting: Aisha Roughton, 1st Place

Water Base: Aisha Roughton, 2nd Place/3rd Place

Printmaking: Aisha Roughton, 1st Place

Three-Dimensional Art/Crafts: Lauren Daugherty, 1st Place

Mixed Media: Aisha Roughton, 1st Place

Collage: Lauren Daugherty, 1st Place; Sadie Mitchum, 2nd

Photography: Aisha Roughton, 3rd Place

Robin Hood Comes to Life at ACA

ACA’s 5th grade students have been reading the classical book “Robin Hood”. As part of wrapping the reading, the students dressed up as a character from the book. Pictured here is our 5th grade class and their impressive display of various characters!

Students Perform at Auburn University

Celtic Traditions

Students Performed at Auburn University’s annual Dance Marathon in February.

Recycling Robots in PreK at St. Michael Catholic School

“Here comes the Recycling Robot!” St. Michael Catholic School’s four year olds paraded around the school, finding items to recycle from other classrooms. They “upcycled”

Autauga County Schools

ACA Jr. Kindergarten Enjoy Winter Learning

Auburn Classical Academy’s Jr. Kindergarten class had ‘snow’ much fun with their winter unit. The students ice-skated, made melted snowmen, enjoyed hot cocoa, talked about arctic animals, and even had a snowball fight. Pictured here are students making snow, which reinforced what they had learned over the week!

OCS Performing Ensemble Scores Superior Ratings

The Spirit of the South’s top performing ensemble did an amazing job at the Alabama Bandmasters Association’s District 6 Music Performance Assessment.

The Wind Ensemble Received:

All superior ratings for all three of the stage judges and in sight-reading. Judge 1-35/35-perfect score!

Judge 2-34/35

Judge 3-32/35

Sight-reading-35/35-another perfect score!

Overall 97.14%

These incredible and hard-working students have worked extremely hard and played extremely difficult literature over the past two months and are doing an outstanding job in maintaining the legacy of the OHS Band program!

Auburn Classical Academy Celebrates Black History Month

Auburn Classical Academy took time during the month of February to focus on Black History. Pictured here is the 2nd grade class. Students learned about a different person

Ash Wednesday at St. Michael Catholic School

“Remember you are dust, and to dust you shall return.” Students received ashes in the shape of a cross on their forehead as they begin Lent, the preparatory time before Easter. Why ashes, and why a cross?

“The ashes mean I’m a sinner; the shape of the cross means I have a savior.”

-Fr. Mike Schmitz

Thomas Aaron Selected for AHSAA Leadership Program

Thomas Aaron, a junior at Auburn High School, was selected to join the AHSAA Student Leadership Program! As a member of the program, Thomas has committed to a two-year journey to help guide the AHSAA with his input as both an athlete and scholar. ACS looks forward to seeing how Thomas’ leadership shapes the future of high school athletics for the next two years!

AHS Career Pathways in Food, Wellness, and Dietetics

Food, Wellness, and Dietetics is a career pathway program offered to students interested in nutrition! Food, Wellness, and Dietetics is taught by Mattie Dunn at Auburn High School and has approximately 60 students enrolled in the program each

Each week students participate in handson activities along with “Food Lab Fridays,” where they work in a kitchen group to prepare delicious and nutritious meals. Students compete in various competitions throughout the semester to showcase their knowledge of the content. Each student can earn a ServSafe Food Handlers certification while enrolled in Food and Nutrition. Students enrolled in any Food, Wellness, and Dietetics class can become affiliated members of Family, Career, & Community Leaders of America (FCCLA). Members of FCCLA highlight the importance of family and community while also sharpening their college/career readiness skills.

Lee Scott Fishing Team Wins Big

Congratulations to 7th Graders Hilton Jones & Aidan Chapman with boat captain Rusty Jones for a big 2nd Place finish at Lake Jordan! LSA Fishing continues to have a stellar year so far.

Autauga County Schools ACA Sketch in Art Class

Our 7th and 8th grade students are learning how to sketch different scenes in their art class. At Auburn Classical Academy, all students take a weekly art class. In class they learn about several art concepts and then take time to practice those concepts themselves!

Pictured here is Belle Johnson beautifully sketching the face of an Australian Shepherd.

Planting Seeds of Knowledge at St. Michael

Second graders have started a school garden, supported by GE Aviation, to learn all about plant cycles, problem solving, and slow growth. It’s fun to see the “fruit” of their labor!

ACA Kindergarten Enjoy Time Outdoors

The Kindergarten class at Auburn Classical Academy loves their time outside!

Pictured here are Hope Garnett, Millie Arthur, and Annabelle Allen showing off their martial arts poses.

enthusiasm and engagement to our students as they talked about NASA’s Launch Services Program, the benefits of STEM research, what kinds of jobs NASA has available, who can work at NASA, and high school internships. Theme of the day- if you can dream it, you can do it! NASA does hire rocket scientists, but they also need accountants, military experience, communicators, IT specialists and many other types of people working together to break barriers to achieve the seemingly impossible. Thank you, NASA, for investing in OHS students and for supporting our faculty to engage and inspire students in STEM and all other careers.

AHS Student Wins Alabama Poetry Out Loud

Celtic Traditions

Dancer Take the Stage

What an amazing opportunity for the Celtic Tradition dancers to be able to perform on stage in Columbus, Ga. They took the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts stage as an opening number to the Riverdance show. After the show, a meet and greet moment was a highlight of the night.

Emily Biaz, a junior at Auburn High School, is the 2023 Alabama Poetry Out Loud Champion! Emily recited three poems for her victory: “My dad and sardines” by Toi Derricotte, “Sheltered Garden” by H.D. and “Surprised by Joy” by William Wordsworth. She will now compete in the Poetry Out Loud finals this May in Washington D.C. The National Endowment for the Arts and the Poetry Foundation have partnered with the Alabama State Council on the Arts to support this program that builds students’ public speaking skills and self-confidence.

Technology Coding at Lee-Scott Academy

In technology with Mrs. Jones, students from Pre-K to 5th Grade have been learning code techniques. Pre-K students used the Code-A-Pillar to learn about coding & problem solving. Kindergarten - 2nd Grade worked with Kodable to learn the very basics of coding. 3rd Grade students learn through Lightbot, all about sequencing, procedures and loops. 4th-5th Grade students used Ozobots. They have learned how to change the speed and direction of their Ozobot using color codes and have also used Blockly to program their Ozobots!

ACA Explores the World of Biology

The sixth-grade science class at Auburn Classical Academy focuses on the world of biology throughout the school year. Pictured are Noah Shabo, Jack O’Brien and Townes Frye constructing spider webs to better understand the energy expenditures from arachnids while building webs.

AHS Student Wins Junior Academies of Sciences Paper

Reading competition

Naeim Mahjouri, a senior at Auburn High School, placed first overall in the State of Alabama Junior Academies of Sciences Paper Reading competition at Samford University! Naeim’s area of research was on Physical Science Earth and Space Science with a focus of structural and compositional tuning of light-matter interactions. He also placed second for the Gorgas Scholarship Program with his scientific research and an accompanying report!

ACA Students Celebrate Valentine’s Day

Auburn Classical Academy students and faculty had a fun time celebrating Valentine’s Day! Classes made Valentine’s boxes, ate yummy treats and played games! All

St. Michael Catholic Feeds the Hungry

Our students and staff were spotted at Cross Catholic’s Food Packing event on February 25. Together with their families and over 130 volunteers, 40,392 vitamin-rich, shelf stable meals were packed to be sent to impoverished areas in Haiti and Guatemala.

LSA Student was Chosen for All State Chorus

Congratulations to Jay Collins (alto saxophone) for being chosen as a Tenor II in the All-State Chorus! Jay and Mrs. Allyson Petrone spent part of their Spring Break in Birmingham rehearsing and performing with talented students and devoted directors from across the state. Great job!

Pick Elementary School Performs Aladdin Show

Students at Pick Elementary School, with the help of a genie and a magic carpet, held a dress rehearsal in the deserts of Agrabah for their production of Disney’s Aladdin KIDS in preparation for upcoming performances! Under the direction of PES Music Teacher Caleb Doster, this is the first school-wide musical in three years. Students and teachers have worked together on this magical endeavor for several months to showcase their artistic gifts and talents.

Congratulations to Mr. and Miss OHS 2023and class winners: Mr. and Miss OHS

2023 1st Runner-Up: Michael Van

Horn and Maime Nicholson, Mr. and Miss OHS 2023 2nd Runner-Up: Kobe

Smith and Susannah Couey, Mr. OHS

2024: Patrick Seymore, Miss OHS

2024: Anita Duncan, Miss OHS 2024

1st Runner-Up: Violett Alcorn, Miss

OHS 2nd Runner-Up: Paige Bales

Miss Sophomore Class: Sara Kate

Speakman, and Miss Freshman Class: Kensley Carter. Beginning with this year’s competition, Mr. and Miss OHS will be selected during their junior year and serve in the position as seniors.

Autauga County Schools

Parkway Preschool’s Read Across America Week with Local Heroes

Students celebrated Read Across America week with a lot of guest readers!

It was a week where students enjoyed various local heroes that joined in the fun and read lots of books during the Dr. Seuss celebration. Some heroes included Campbell’s Granpa,

Hyatt’s Meme, and Quinn’s Granma all the way from Reno, Nevada! Our favorite chicken nugget maker, Gracie from Chick fil A, the famous Sophia from Auburn Gymnastics, and the bravest firefighter we know, Mr. Shane.

Opelika Middle Explores Careers

Career Discovery 2023 at Opelika Middle School was a big success!

and experience the career industries in exhibits set up by local community members. Students saw robotic arms, Jenga building blocks, an anatomical spine model, medical

form, culinary supplies, live plants, and police tactical vests amongst many other things! Special thanks to Southern Union State Community College, Baxter, Cumberland Plastic Solutions, Encore Rehab, East Alabama Health, VCOM, Opelika Police Department, AU College of Human Sciences, Central Alabama Works, Go Build Alabama, Rabren General Contractors, and Bonnie Plants for spending your Friday afternoon with us and giving our students such an enriching experience. They have to see it to be it, and it takes all of us working together to help students find their passion and build tomorrow’s workforce.

**You

Auburn Day School Wins High Ratings

Congratulations to the team at Auburn Day School for earning four stars through Alabama’s Quality Rating and Improvement System! To learn more about the high quality education ADS is providing, check out www.auburndayschool.com

speaker Dr. Terrance Vickerstaff. Dr. Vickerstaff, family historian and the first Pebble Hill scholar-in-residence, presented on Black History in Auburn. He discussed landmarks in town, such as the Unitarian Church, originally built and founded by black citizens after emancipation, and the namesake of J.F. Drake Middle School. He reminded students that they are a part of history and responsible for moving history forward. All students sang “Lift Every Voice and Sing,” while the Ogletree Singers performed “Down by the Riverside” and “Keep Your Eyes on the Prize.” Students also welcomed guests and shared facts about black history. This event was planned and coordinated by OES music teacher Dr. Phil Wilson!

Social Media: Are We Addicted or Simply Bingeing?

Addiction and bingeing behaviors differ, although they often get lumped into the same conversations. I have been interested in our social media and device behaviors since I listened to a podcast by Dr. Sanjay Gupta titled Chasing Life. If you have yet to listen, it is definitely worth your time. Dr. Gupta is a neurosurgeon, and in the podcast series, he looks at our social media behaviors through the lens of professionals and his daughters. It was one conversation with a professional that had me thinking, are we addicted to social media? Or are we simply bingeing it?

A quick Google search of the definition of the two words pro vides essential informa tion that seems to focus a lot on food and drugs/ alcohol. The definition of binge is a period of excessive indulgence in an activity, especially eating, drinking, or taking drugs. And addiction is the fact or condition of being addicted to a particular substance, thing, or activity. Unfortunately, any further research on addiction and binge behavior as it relates to social media comes up incredibly empty, which reminds me how new we still are to all this.

If we look at addiction, it is considered a brain disorder because it involves functional changes to brain circuits involved in reward, stress, and self-

control, which one could argue happens with social media use. Our brains are following a path that is algorithm-driven. It appeals directly to our reward centers, leaving us with what feels like very little self-control. We crave the next “hit.” We often look for the feel-good hit, but we must acknowledge that the “hit” of something shocking or disturbing also

priate support system to remain drugfree. With social media and devices, we have moved into an era where we almost can not function without them. Just as one with a binge eating disorder cannot live without food, everything from work, school, and social life is connected by a device. So, in reality, we can not simply remove the addiction. Instead, we must learn new behaviors and coping strategies, just as one does with a binge eating disorder.

How do we combat this? We learn new behaviors with monitoring systems to support us. It may look like setting a timer on our phone to remind us to get off the device after 30 minutes. Or the phone is turned off and moved to the other room at night. There are, ironically, apps that provide support and reminders to unplug.

If you feel you are addicted or bingeing your social media, please get in touch with a local counselor or coach and ask for help navigating the behavior. Like any disorder, it can feel incredibly difficult to carry and navigate independently.

holds an appeal. This becomes dangerous for our youth because natural curiosity can replace good decision-making. The more we look, the more we want. And the algorithm continues to support and encourage this behavior, much like a drug addict seeking drugs.

However, it makes sense if we look at our behavior in the context of a binge disorder, such as food. For example, as a drug addict, one can live without drugs. The person can go into rehab, remove the drugs, and place an appro -

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

When we moved into our new neighborhood, I was pregnant and still working full-time. Although the neighborhood was filled with moms, I never had time to do more than wave hello.

When my daughter was born that December, it was too cold to stroll outside for a chance meeting and I felt silly walking up to a door unannounced. When we got outside in the spring, I tried to put myself out there, but the responses were less than enthusiastic.

Who knew making friends as an adult would be so hard? Here’s some advice to help!

1. Make the first move. It may sound intimidating, but it is that easy. If you are enjoying small talk with a mom on the playground or the sidelines of the game, exchange contact information. Suggest a stop for ice cream on the way home to continue the conversation. If you feel you have a connection, don’t be afraid to invite her over next week for a play date with the kids or out for a glass of wine.

2. Join social media groups. Facebook has tons of “What’s Happening in Your Town” groups as well as those specific to your neighborhood. I found my current Bunco group after reading someone’s post who wanted to start playing again. If you are looking for a running buddy, book club or bachelor watch party, put yourself out there with a post asking if anyone else is interested in joining.

3. There’s an app for that. Yes, there is an app for everything, including making new friends. Peanut is like a dating app, but made for women of all stages of motherhood. Meetup is an app for finding people with common interests in your area or online. The Nextdoor app is a local app that allows you to find groups like dog owners, gardeners and other common interests. It also lists local events in your area, opening the opportunity to gather with others who share your interests.

4. Go where other moms go. Get out of the house with your child and head to MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers), Mommy and Me classes, storytime at the library or swim lessons. Moms can also be found on school committees and other activities your child is involved in. When you get there, introduce yourself and strike up a conversation. You never know who will be your next best friend.

5. Find groups of like-minded people through gyms, volunteer spots or churches. While it is nice to find friends who have children the same age as your kids, it is not a prerequisite for friendship. It is important to look for friends who have common interests like reading, running 5Ks or baking. If they are moms with older children, they could be a great source of advice for the next stage of parenting.

6. Introduce yourself to the neighbors. Some of my best mom friends live in my neighborhood. Even if you have only had a casual conversation with a few of them, consider hosting a driveway potluck or a game night like Euchre. If your neighborhood has events like a bicycle parade on the 4th of July or an Easter Egg Hunt, consider getting involved in the planning committee to meet more people.

7. Be a matchmaker for your friends. While my preschool-aged son was playing outside with one of the neighborhood girls, I mentioned to her mom, Tracey, that he didn’t have any friends who were boys. Tracey told me of another mom who said the same thing about her son. The next week, our mutual friend hosted a playdate for the three of them (and their moms) allowing us all to make new friends.

8. Don’t give up, it takes time. Like anything, it takes effort to be successful. Once you have made a connection with someone, keep feeding the relationship with opportunities to get together. However, realize that not every new connection will become a friendship and know when it is time to move on to the next person.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer who spends much of her time in front of a computer. Despite that fact, she is blessed with many mom friends she has met over the years.

Nothing is better than a dish that takes you back to your momma’s kitchen table. That is why Ginger Stephens of Auburn shared her mother’s green bean recipe for this month’s Dinner’s Ready recipe.

Pitty Pat’s Green Beans are a crowdpleaser and are guaranteed to have everyone coming back for seconds, according to Ginger, and then asking for the recipe!

When asked about the name Pitty Pat, Ginger shared that it is the name that her children gave her mother. Even beyond her grandkids, Ginger’s mom is known as Pitty Pat all over town!

“I am 43 years old and have lived in Auburn my whole life,” said Ginger. “It

was a wonderful place to grow up, and I love raising my children here.”

Ginger has been married to her husband for 19 years, and together they have three children - ages 15, 13, and 11. Ginger met her husband while she attended Auburn University, where she earned her degree in Special Education. She currently teaches Kindergarten Enrichment at Trinity Christian in Opelika, Alabama.

When she isn’t working, Ginger enjoys being with family and friends and exercising while listening to a great book on Audible. The family also loves to travel together and will pack their bags up and head out of town every chance they get.

“The thing that brings me the most joy in my life is being with my family and spending time together, making sweet memories,” Ginger shared.

The Stephen family eats at home often, and this delicious green bean side dish often makes its way to their kitchen table. It pairs perfectly with just about anything.

“We make these green beans for all holiday meals, any special occasion like a birthday or when we take food to someone,” shared Ginger. “I serve this dish whenever I get a chance because it is so easy and yummy.”

Pitty Pat’s Green Beans

Sauce Ingredients:

• ¾ cup brown sugar

• 1 stick butter

• 2 garlic cloves (diced fine)

Cook these ingredients on top of the stove approximately 5 minutes (sometimes if I’m in a hurry, I’ll put it all in the microwave).

Additional Ingredients:

• 3 cans of Allen’s Italian Green Beans, drained

• 6-8 pieces of bacon-uncooked Place beans in a 9x13 Pyrex dish. Pour the sauce mixture evenly on top of

the beans. Place the uncooked bacon on top. Bake at 350 for 45-50 minutes and serve.

Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.

Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.

Having a baby is one of the most amazing and anticipated moments in a person’s life. You have prepared the nursery, installed the car seat, read parenting books, and it’s time to bring your baby home and start life with a new family member. While having a new baby is a fun and exciting time, it can also be exhausting and overwhelming. Adjusting to having an infant at home takes time and there are several things you don’t need to sweat as you figure out your new normal.

What are some things that aren’t worth stressing over while you enjoy time with your new baby?

Housework

It’s nice to have a house that is neat and clean but the thing about housework is that it never goes away. Once you get the house clean, it’s messy again. While you enjoy your new baby, try to let some of the cleaning go. Do the bare minimum while you rest, recover, and recuperate from birth and snuggle your newborn.

Cooking

Immediately after bringing home a baby is not the time to cook elaborate meals, or sometimes, any meals at all.

However, you do need to eat regular and nutritious meals, so keep it simple. Stock the pantry with items that are quick and easy to eat while you care for the baby. Wendy Haviland, mom of two, says, “I prepared freezer meals before the baby was born so I had something to put in the oven or crock pot when I was tired from taking care of a newborn.” You can also ask friends to set up a meal train where family and friends can bring dinner during the first few days after the birth of your baby. This will eliminate the need to shop and cook when you are recovering.

Spoiling baby

When I first became a mom I was warned that I shouldn’t hold my newborn too much or while he was sleeping because it might “spoil” him, and then he would never sleep in his own bed or let me put him down for a few minutes. This is simply not true. There is no such thing as a spoiled baby. Newborns sleep most of the day and they find great comfort in being held. It also creates a strong bond between parent and child. There is no such thing as sleep training a newborn or spoiling a new baby. Enjoy as much cuddle time as you care to and let that worry go.

Naptime

One old saying is certainly true... “sleep when the baby is sleeping.” This really is the best advice you will receive. As a person who likes to keep busy, I found it hard to allow myself to take naps during the day. Once the exhaustion of being up most of the night nursing my newborn hit me, I decided to give myself permission to take a nap when my baby does. Moms need rest and your body needs time to recuperate after the stress of giving birth.

Courage lives

the baby is clean, fed, and happy there isn’t anything to stress over. This will also give Dad time to bond with the baby as well.

Take a break

Most people cannot even imagine what it feels like to watch a child take on a battle against cancer. The courage, strength and resilience our patients demonstrate every day is what inspires us to give our best. We are here when families need us the most, caring for their children and never giving up hope in their fight against cancer.

Having a new baby can be physically and emotionally taxing. It is okay to admit you may need a break sometimes. If you are feeling overwhelmed, schedule a time your spouse or a friend can take care of the baby while you step out of the house for a short while. Breastfeeding moms may find it is hard to get away for extended periods, but typically taking a break for an hour or two can do a lot to improve your mood.

Be flexible

Accept help

It can be hard to accept help when you are used to doing everything yourself, but when you have a new baby at home any help offered can be a huge blessing. Take people up on their offers to bring meals, help with older children’s carpool, or clean the house. Don’t just have them do the easy, quick chores that aren’t difficult to keep up on - let them vacuum the house, do laundry, and wash dishes, which all seem to get behind quickly. While you have help, jump in the shower, take a nap, or run a much

needed errand. People offer to help because they want to. You can always pay it forward when you find your new normal.

Take turns

It can be hard, especially for breastfeeding moms, not to get overtired. As much as possible, share the task of caretaking with your partner. Some moms will find it hard to pass the baby care to their husbands, but dads often feel left out and want to jump in. He may not do things exactly as you do, but that’s okay. As long as

When you are adjusting to having a new baby, it’s important to realize it will take awhile to find your routine again. When planning an outing, think ahead. Pack items you might need including extra diapers, clothes for you and the baby, and be prepared to feed the baby on the go if needed. It’s also important to accept that sometimes an outing will not go as well as planned and it’s okay to head home early. Be flexible and go easy on yourself when it comes to taking the baby out for the first time and when trying to get things done around the house. This is normal and will get easier in time. Adding a new family member is both exciting and disruptive to a family. In time, you will adjust to your newborn and won’t be able to imagine your family without them. In the meantime, give yourself, your spouse, and your other children time to adjust to this big change. It’s okay to let go of some of the things that take up your time and focus on the baby.

Auburn Auburn Day School

ad on page 4, 43

1199 South Donahue Dr, Suite B, Auburn, 36832 Auburn Day School is a half-day, drop-in STEM preschool serving children ages 8 months- 5 years. Rather than themes, our lessons are taught through overarching concepts, which are ideas that can apply to anyone, at any time, with any background knowledge. Our focus is on process rather than procedures. We want to help students to learn how to think, not what to think so we can help set the foundation for a lifetime of learning. Our classes are designed with children’s interests and readiness in mind. Our age ranges overlap a bit to give parents and teachers some choice over which class is the best fit.

Ages: Ages 8 months-5 years

Contact: Katharine Murrah kmurrah@auburndayschool.com www.auburndayschool.com

Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center

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128 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, 36830

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); Themebased 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, emo -

tionally, socially and spiritually. Now Enrolling Summer Camp.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 7:00am-5:30pm

Ages: Infant through 6 years and After School care grades K - 5 Contact: Milissa Clowers

334-821-8125 afbcdc@gmail.com www.auburnfbc.org

Bright Ideas Enrichment Center

ad on Inside Front Cover

1675 Shug Jordan Parkway, Auburn, 36830

We are committed to providing a safe, loving, and nurturing environment for children to grow, develop, and shine. We are dedicated to supplying quality childcare with affordable tuition. Diversity is essential to us, and is reflected across our various populations. The Bright Ideas play-based and child-centered curriculum is designed to engage children in developmentally appropriate activities that teach them how to work with peers, problemsolve, and improvise.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks-12 years

334-887-5730 auburn@brightideasfamily.com www.brightideasfamily.com/pages/auburn-alchildcare

Growing Room Child Development Center

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644 North Dean Road, Auburn, 36830

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.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am-6:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years Contact: Laura Smith

334-501-2044 hautrey@grauburn.com

www.growingroomusa.com/auburn

Lee Scott AcademyPreschool

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1601 Academy Drive, Auburn, 36830

To provide a safe and pleasant atmosphere in which students may develop socially, mentally, physically, 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.

Hours: Monday-Friday

Ages: Preschool-Kindergarten

Contact: Dr. Stan Cox 334-821-2430 info@lee-scott.org www.lee-scott.org

St. Michael Catholic School

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1100 North College Street, Auburn, 36830 St. Michael Catholic School fosters the development of the whole child through spiritual, moral, and academic excellence.

Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: Preschool, Kindergarten-2nd grade, (Prospective 3rd grade in 2022) Contact: Debbie Brooks 334-887-5540 school@stmichaelsauburn.com www.stmichaelcatholicschool.com

Parkway Baptist Church Preschool & Kindergarten

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766 East University Drive, Auburn, 36830 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!!

Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30am-12:00pm & 8:30am-12:15pm Ages: 6 weeks through Kindergarten Contact: Dawn Woodrow

334-321-0537 dawn.woodrow@parkwayauburn. org www.parkwayauburn.org/parkway-preschool

Woodland Wonders Nature Preschool

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2222 North College Street, Auburn, 36830 Woodland Wonders Nature Preschool is Auburn’s first nature preschool and the second nature preschool in Alabama. “Nature preschool” is an innovative educational strategy that allows your child to learn about, with, and through nature, embracing the great outdoors as their classroom. Children spend their school time exploring and uncovering knowledge in an environment where curiosity and child-led discovery are encouraged. This incredible, cutting-edge, and revolutionary

philosophy combines early-childhood education and environmental awareness on a new level.

Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Friday OR Tuesday, Thursday, 8:00-11:30am Ages: Ages 3-5 years

Contact: Sarah Crim

334-844-8091 preserve@auburn.edu wp.auburn.edu/preserve/woodlandwonders/

Auburn City Schools After-School Programs Programs located at and all Elementary Schools Auburn, 36830

Hours: After school until 5:30pm

Ages: Kindergarten to 5th grade

334-887-2100 www.auburnschools.org

Auburn Day Care Centers Central Office: 410 Boykin Street, Room 14, Auburn, 36830

Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am-5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years

334-821-4060 auburndaycarectr@bellsouth.net www.auburndaycarecenters.org

Auburn United Methodist ChurchChildren’s Day Out

137 South Gay Street, Auburn, 36830

Provides a safe place for children to learn age appropriate ways to develop: spiritually, emotionally, physically and socially.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 9:00am-12:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks- 5 years

334-826-8800 meghan.kemp@aumc.net www.aumc.net

Auburn United Methodist ChurchDiscovery Club After-School Program

137 South Gay Street, Auburn, 36830

Discovery Club is an after school care program. We provide a range of activities that include directed

homework time, daily snack, gym activities, cooking, crafts, special events, and mission projects.

Hours: Monday-Friday; afterschool until 6:00pm

Ages: Kindergarten to 7th grade

334-826-8800 leighO@aumc.net www.aumc.net

Auburn United Methodist ChurchWeekday Preschool

137 South Gay Street, Auburn, 36830

The curriculum of the preschool provides children opportunities for growth intellectually, physically, emotionally, and spiritually by including developmentally appropriate themes, experiences, and Christian education.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:15-11:45am

Ages: 1-4 years

334-826-8800 karenc@aumc.net www.aumc.net

Auburn University Early Learning Center

Auburn Campus, 210 Spidle Hall, Auburn University, 36849

The teaching philosophy of the facility is grounded in the concept of developmentally appropriate practice in which children “learn by doing” and are guided by a curriculum designed to capitalize upon knowledge of how young children learn.

Hours: 8:30-11:30 or 12:30-3:30

Ages: 2-5 years

334-844-4696 auelc@auburn.edu www.humsci.auburn.edu/hdfs/centers/auelc.php

Big Blue Marble Academy

585 Devall Drive, Auburn, 36830 334-518-6091

www.bbmacademy.com/locations/auburn

1811 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, 36830 334-326-0527

www.bbmacademy.com/location/glenn-ave

We are committed to providing children the opportunity to reach their highest potential. While offering a home away from home, we nurture little minds

through a robust preschool curriculum that ensures they are developmentally, socially, and emotionally prepared for kindergarten and beyond. Our emphasis on global awareness and service learning teaches them invaluable lessons, growing big hearts that are ready and eager to take on the world.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks-school age

Farmville Baptist Church First Steps Preschool

3607 Al Hwy 147, Auburn, 36830

Our mission is to provide a comfortable, secure, loving environment where children will learn and grow under the supervision of qualified Christian teachers.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00-11:30am

Ages: Ages 1-4 years

334-329-KIDZ farmvillefirststeps@gmail.com

www.farmvillefirststeps.org

Foundations Preschool at Cornerstone Church

2123 Hamilton Road, Auburn, 36830

We have created an environment tailored to your child’s development.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 7:50-11:50am

Ages: 6 weeks to 4K

334-887-1152 www.cornerstonebuzz.org

Grace United Methodist Church Preschool

950 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, 36830

Our program is designed with the “whole child” in mind. A thematic curriculum and related activities are utilized, addressing the physical, social, emotional, and intellectual domains of early childhood education.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:00-11:30am

Ages: 1 year-PreK

334-877-5981 info@gracepreschoolauburn.com

www.gracepreschoolauburn.com

Grove Hill Academy

1279 Weatherford Street, Auburn, 36830

We strive to provide relationship oriented, developmentally appropriate early education for infants – preschoolers.

Hours: Monday-Friday

Ages: Infant-school age

334-521-0308

www.grovehillacademyauburn.com

Holy Trinity Episcopal Day School

100 Church Drive, Auburn, 36830

We are dedicated to empowering students to achieve academic excellence built on a Christian foundation, and encouraging lifelong community involvement.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:00-11:45am

Ages: PreschoolKindergarten

334-821-98 dayschool@holytrinitychurch.info www.holytrinityepiscopaldayschool.info

Indian Pines Country Day School

1742 Saugahatchee Road, Auburn, 36830

Our goal is to provide your child with a healthy, happy setting in which to enjoy his or her first formal learning experience.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:15am-12:00pm

Ages: 3-5 years

334-821-7786 sccijackson@yahoo.com www.ipcds.org

Jacob’s Ladder Early Learning Center

954 Opelika Road, Auburn, 36830

Ages: 3 weeks-12 years old 334-821-5100

Lakeview Preschool Adventures

1600 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, 36830

As a ministry of Lakeview Baptist Church, Lakeview Preschool Adventures we strive to not only teach preschoolers the basic ABC’s and 123’s; we also strive to teach them the love of Jesus and how He would want us to treat others. We do this in a loving, secure environment. The children stay active during center time, playground time, and large group time. They also have an academic time when they focus on their letters and numbers. Our desire is that each child graduating out of our program at four will not only know their letters and numbers but also know that Jesus loves them.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:45am-12:00noon

Ages: 1-4 year olds Contact: Holly Hutto 334-887-7094 www.lakeviewbaptist.org/preschool-ministry/lakeview-preschool-adventures/

Little Explorers of Auburn Preschool

323 Airport Road, Suite F, Auburn, 36830

We will provide a nurturing environment where children can safely engage in child-based, developmentally appropriate activities to foster social skills, as well as cognitive.

Hours: Monday-Thursday Ages: 2-4 year olds info@leapauburn.com www.leapauburn.com

The Children’s House-Auburn Montessori

231 East Drake Avenue, Auburn, 36830

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.

Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: School aged 334-209-2513 amstchori@gmail.com www.auburnmontessorischool.org

Auburn and Opelika

Boys and Girls Club of Greater Lee County 400 B Boykin Street and 1610 Toomer Street, Auburn and Opelika, 36830 and 36801

We are youth development professionals delivering high-impact programs focusing on three priority outcomes: Academic Success, Good Character and Citizenship and Healthy Lifestyles.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 2:30-6:30pm. 334-745-2582 clubs@bgcleeco.com www.bgcleeco.org

Miss Deanna’s Childcare

1901 Corporate Drive and 1745 East University Drive, Opelika and Auburn, 36801 and 36830 Offering childcare in both Auburn and Opelika.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am-5:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years 334-745-7139 and 334-821-0066 www.facebook. com/MissDeannasChildcareAuburn

Opelika

Growing Room Child Development Center

ad on page 7

1755 Thomason Drive, Opelika, 36801

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 Opelika City Schools.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:30am-6:30pm

Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years

Contact: Laura Smith 334-501-2044 www.growingroomusa.com/auburn

Trinity Christian School

ad on page 13

1010 India Rd, Opelika, 36801

Trinity offers a classical, Christian education that employs time-tested curricula and teaching methods. Our students participate in hands-on learning about God’s creation and they practice careful articulation when expressing the truth of God’s Word; all the while, they grow to appreciate great literature and Latin as well as how God weaves science and mathematics throughout His world.

Hours: Monday-Friday

Ages: Kindergarten

Contact: Larry Cornelius 334-745-2464

www.tcsopelika.org

ABC Building Blocks Preschool

2301 Airport Road, Opelika, 36801

We are committed to instructing and guiding each child spiritually, cognitively, socially and emotionally in a safe and nurturing environment.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:00am-12 noon

Ages: 2-4 years

334-234-7772 abcbuildingblocksps@gmail.com www.abcbuidlingblockspreschool.com

A.C.H.R. Child Development Center-Darden

601 South 4th Street, Opelika, 36801

Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:00am-5:30pm

Ages: 3 weeks-12 years old 334-821-8336

Big Blue Marble Academy

555 East Thomason Circle, Opelika, 36801

We are committed to providing children the opportunity to reach their highest potential. While offering a home away from home, we nurture little minds through a robust preschool curriculum that ensures they are developmentally, socially, and emotionally prepared for kindergarten and beyond. Our emphasis on global awareness and service learning teaches them invaluable lessons, growing big hearts that are ready and eager to take on the world.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks-school age

334-249-1088 www.bbmacademy.com/location/ opelika/

Bonnie’s Kids Childcare Center

2314 Enterprise Drive, Opelika, 36801

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.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:00am-5:30pm

Ages: 4 weeks to 10 years

334-745-6248 bonnieskids@aol.com www.bonnieschildcare.com

Bright Beginnings at First Baptist Church Opelika

301 South 8th Street, Opelika, 36801

We are a Christ-centered preschool program at First Baptist Church Opelika where children engage in learning experiences that stimulate their development spiritually, physically, emotionally, socially and mentally.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30am-12:00pm

Ages: 14 months-4 years

334-364-2784 rachellet@fbcopelika.com www.fbcopelika.com

Child Care Resource Center

2015 Gateway Drive, Opelika, 36801

Child Care Resource Center, Inc. is an accredited Family Resource Center (ANFRC). Services include: Training and professional development for childcare professionals to promote quality child care, family assistance with locating quality child care, financial assistance for childcare, family support services, resource and referral, parent education, prevention of child abuse and neglect, fatherhood, goaldriven case management.

334-749-8400 www.ccrc-alabama.org

Childcare Network

702 Second Avenue, Opelika, 36801

Provide childcare for your children with programs designed for each stage of growth.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 6:00am-6:00pm

Ages: 6 weeks to 12 years

334-341-5042 www.childcarenetwork.net

By His Grace Daycare & Learning Center

311 South 6th Street, Opelika, 36801

We aim to be your first choice child care provider. To achieve this goal, we offer exceptional

quality childcare in a compassionate learning environment.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 5:00am-12:00am

Ages: 3 weeks-12 years old

334-750-0309 www.byhisgracedaycare.com

Opelika Extended Day

Opelika City Schools, Opelika, 36801

Hours: Monday-Friday; afterschool until 5:30pm

334-745-9700 scarlett.mcallister@opelika schools.org

Sonshine Preschool at First United Methodist Opelika

702 Avenue A, Opelika, 36801

Sonshine Preschool focuses on laying a spiritual foundation while developing each unique child.

Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, 8:45am1:00pm Ages: Ages 2-4 years

334-745-7604 drewspeakman@fumcopelika.org www.fumcopelika.org/pre-school

The Oaks School

2201 Executive Park Drive, Opelika, 36801

Hours: Monday-Thursday

Ages: PreK-Kindergarten

334-887-9947 www.theoaksschool.org

Trinity United Methodist Church Preschool

800 2nd Avenue, Opelika, 36801

We provide a safe Christian environment for your children to learn social as well as academic skills and to have fun.

Hours: Monday-Friday; 8:30am-1:30pm

Ages: Ages 3 months through Pre-K (Summer—ages 3 months to children entering 3rd grade)

334-745-2632 www.tumcopelika.org/connect/ kids/childrens-day-out/

University Daycare

2900 Waverly Parkway, Opelika, 36801

Our goal is to provide excellent care to all of our children by working with parents, providing a loving home-like environment combined with a healthy diet.

Hours: Monday-Friday Ages: 6 weeks-12 years

334-203-1234 universitydaycarefamily@gmail. com www.udcauburn.com

LaFayette

Chambers Academy

15048 US Hwy 431, LaFayette, 36862

Chambers Academy provides daycare services for children from 6 weeks old to 5 years. The daycare has been in existence since 1986. Chambers Academy’s Daycare is a state licensed daycare for families desiring a safe and stimulating environment for their preschoolers. An extended after school day program is also available for our students.

Hours: Monday-Friday, 6:30am-5:30pm

Ages: Ages 6 weeks-5 years

334-864-9691 www.chambersacademy.com

Tallassee

The Learning Tree Preschool

101 South Dubois Street, Tallassee, 36078

The Learning Tree is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing educational, residential and support services for children and adolescents with developmental disabilities, including autism. Programs are designed to help children lead more fulfilling and rewarding lives.

334-415-9372 infotallassee@learning-tree.org www.learning-tree.org AOP

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases

Chang Can Dunk Disney+

Determined to increase his social cred and impress Kristy, the new girl in marching band, Chang makes a bet with his frenemy, Matt. In ten weeks, Chang will learn to dunk and will prove it in the school gym. This movie begins as a standard sports film with training montages and on court footage. It gets more interesting when Chan g has to undergo some serious self -assessment, acknowledge his errors, and rebuild the important relationships in his life. With minimal negative content and lots of empathy for the trials of adolescence, this is a slam dunk for families . Photo ©Disney+

When Mills agrees to pilot a two year deep space voyage, he doesn’t expect to sustain damage in an asteroid belt and make an emergency landing on an unknown planet – Earth. There are no humans on Earth because it’s 65 million years ago and the planet is dominated by dinosaurs. Mills knows that one of those asteroids could hit the planet so he and the other survivor (a young girl) must make it to the escape pod quickly. This could have been an interesting film but terrible editing, bad special effects, and unconvincing dinosaurs suck out all the fun . Photo ©Sony Pictures

A series of bad choices leave basketball coach Marcus Marakovich unemployed and sentenced to 90 days community service, specifically, coaching a team of players with intellectual disabiliti es. Champions starts off as a typical underdog sports flick but it has the courage to shake up the formula in the service of its message about the value of having different ways of seeing the world. The movie overflows with positive themes about dignity, respect, and redemption but is undermined by crude sexual conversations and a transactional sexual relationship. Photo ©Focus Features

When Donnie Creed’s old friend, Damian appears at his gym after spending 18 years in prison, Donnie agrees to help him build a professional boxing career. But Damian has a bigger agenda – one designed to hurt Donnie. This production hits all the beats of a basic boxing movie but it stands out for providing an emotional character story and some highly skilled cinematography. It also contains a fair bit of boxingrelated violence and some profanity. Photo ©United Artists Releasing

While Ant-Man promotes his new book, his daughter Cassie spends her time investigating the Quantum Realm, an area of existence smaller than sub -atomic particles. Her equipment draws her, Ant-Man, and some friends into the realm, where they confront Kang, a supervillain who wants to conquer the multiverse. This film features infrequent profanity and non-stop, digitally enhanced violence. It also offers familiar messages about courage, loyalty, and determination, and a bland plot that will please fans and bore everyone else

Photo ©Disney Motion Pictures Studios

FamilyCalendar

Through April 7

Edges

Telfair Peet Theatre, 350 West Samford Avenue, Auburn Edges explores young people on the edge of adulthood. Each song in this engaging song-cycle explores universal concerns of love, luck, longing, and asks what happens next.

Saturday, April 1

Self-Care

Saturday 10:00-11:00 AM

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn Take time for yourself this week. Every Saturday morning this Spring semester, the Jule will be hosting a free, hour-long activity that is connected to the “Invisible Thread” exhibition. Like “Invisible Thread,” these activities will center on mindfulness, spirituality and self-reflection. www.jcsm.auburn.edu

O Grows Farms

10:00 AM-12:00 PM 1103 Glenn Street, Auburn This Spring, Opelika’s local farmers market, located across the street from the Cultural Arts Center on Glenn Street near the community garden, will be hosting Saturdays at the Garden! Featuring arts and science activities, storytime, local vendors, fresh produce, and more!

254.744.0726

12th Annual Going Blue for Autism

6:00-8:00 PM Downtown Opelika

This year’s event will be AU-SOME, with a fantastic food truck line up, petting zoo, vendors, inflatables, live DJ, first responder meet & greet, car show and so much more!

For sponsor or vendor info: Luanne Helms, at Helmslu@gmail.com

Operation Homecoming 5K

8:00 AM 188 South Donahue Drive, Auburn A charity 5k organized by AFROTC cadets at Auburn University through the service society, Arnold Air Society. Raising money for Vietnam Veterans of America. http://runsignup.com/Race/AL/AuburnUniversity/OPERATIONHOMECOMING5K

2nd Annual Breakfast with the Bunny

8:00 AM Kiesel Park, 520 Chadwick Lane, Auburn

This event is for ages 3 and under, and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration is required and will open on Monday, March 6. www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Auburn Women’s Soccer www.auburntigers.com

Monday, April 3

Adult Easter Egg Hunt

through Friday, April 7, 2023 Find special eggs throughout the City of Opelika by following clues posted on @opelikaparks social media pages. www.opelika-al.gov/829/adult-easter-egg-hunt

Tuesday, April 4

Little Sprouts

10:00 AM Columbus Botanical Gardens, 3603 Weems Road, Ga The class is designed as an exposure experience in which there are three parts: sit and get either through a talk, piece of literature or a presentation; exploration through a hands-on experience which can look like a game, scavenger hunt, data collection activity; a craft which ties the two experiences together.

columbusbotanicalgarden.org/events/little-sprouts/

Thursday, April 6

Flashlight Egg Hunt

7:30 PM Opelika Sportsplex Amp, 1001 SportsPlex Pkwy, Opelika Hunt for eggs in the dark! Bring a flashlight and a basket. Look for special prizes and golden eggs. 3rd-5th graders and is free and open to the public.

www.opelika-al.gov/713/Flashlight-Egg-Hunt

Friday, April 7

Food Truck Friday

5:00 PM, Downtown Opelika Spend your first and third Friday of every month 5:00pm, where you can enjoy dinner and drinks from downtown restaurants, bars & breweries, and up to five different food truck partners each week. Enjoy your brews, bites, and beautiful downtown Opelika.

www.facebook.com/even

ts/5691132020962813/5691761004233248/

Wing Fling

4:00-5:00 PM Auburn Raptor Center, 1350 PrattCarden Drive, Auburn One of Auburn’s most popular programs offers fans the opportunity to see a raptor show where they will experience birds of prey eyeto-eye and watch as they swoop overhead. During the show, hawks, falcons, eagles and other birds of prey are free-flown from towers and around the amphitheater, enabling visitors to see these raptors flying close.

www.vetmed.auburn.edu/raptor/raptor-center-events/

Underwater Egg Hunt

6:00-8:00 PM Opelika SportsPlex & Aquatics Center, 1001 SportsPlex Pkwy, Opelika Hunt for eggs in the pool and receive prizes. Ages 6-10.

www.opelika-al.gov/714/underwater-egg-hunt

Saturday, April 8

Easter on the Square

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Downtown Opelika Hosted by Opelika SportsPlex. Ages 2nd grade and younger invited.

www.opelika-al.gov/715/easter-on-the-square

43rd Annual Easter Egg Hunt

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM Kiesel Park, 520 Chadwick Lane, Auburn Hosted by Auburn Parks and Recreation. www.facebook.com/cityofauburna

Self-Care Saturday

Details on April 1.

O Grows Farms

9:00 AM to 12:00 PM Details on April 1.

Auburn Football

A-Day

1:00 PM Jordan Hare Stadium Plan your spring game festivities accordingly, Auburn fans.

www.auburntigers. com/sports/football

7th Annual Auburn Azalea Festival

8:00 AM to 2:00 PM Davis Arboretum, 181 Garden Drive, Auburn University This free event is open to the public and will be filled with fun activities for kids, live music, arts & crafts from local artists, food trucks, the Arboretum’s spring native plant sale, and more! www.auburn.edu/cosam/arboretum

Easter Egg Hunt at Botanic

1:00 PM 1702 Frederick Road, Opelika Make Easter plans at Botanic with an egg hunt, pictures with the Easter Bunny, brunch, and more activities. www.shopbotanic.com/event/easter-egg-hunt-more/

Second Saturday at Pioneer Park

9:30 AM - 12:30 PM 6500 Stage Road, Loachapoka

A group of history re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts. Blacksmiths are working at the forge, spinners and weavers are in the textile room, the gardeners are in the gardens, crafts and seasonal activities are scheduled, and someone is always cooking up a meal in the fireplace or outdoors.

www.leecountyhistroicalsociety.org

Wednesday, April 12

An Evening of Wine Tasting

6:00-7:00 PM Tony and Libba Rane Culinary Science Center, 205 South College Street

(Experience an evening of tasting exquisite wines from around the world with Master Sommelier Thomas Price. You will learn about the wine and practice tasting techniques in a fun, casual class environment.)

www.facebook.com/AUHOSP

Thursday, April 13

Million Dollar Quartet through Sunday, May 7, 2023 Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Montgomery A twist of fate brought together Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins, and Elvis Presley at Sun Records. This production is a celebration of the contagious spirit, freewheeling excitement, and thrilling sounds where four of music’s best talents came together. www.asf.net/million-dollar-quartet-51

Sundilla presents The Rough & Tumble in Concert

($20.00 )

7:30-10:00 PM Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee. www.facebook.com/sundilla

Friday, April 14

Trinity Irish Dance Company

7:30 PM Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 South College Street, Auburn Founded in 1990 by pioneering artistic director Mark Howard, TIDC uses Irish dance as an instrument and a metaphor, redefining the medium with passion, flair and precision. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu/trinity-irish-dancecompany/

The Cads-AMDA Fashion Event

7:00-9:00 PM 650 Biggio Drive, Beard Eaves Coliseum, Auburn UniversitY The Fashion Event at Auburn University is held annually and organized in a year long planning class by apparel merchandising and design students. In honor of this year being the 12th annual show, our theme, “The 12th Hour”, is all about where tranquility and turmoil exist in equilibrium. 678.622.7174

Saturday, April 15

Nerf War Zone

9:00 AM Spring Villa Park, 1474 Co Rd 148, Opelika Bring your Nerf Gun and ammo for an outdoor nerf battle. Ages 6-8, 9:00-10:30am, Ages 9-12, 11:00am12:30pm. www.opelika-al.gov/830/nerf-war-zone

Self-Care Saturday Details on April 1.

O Grows Farms

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM Details on April 1.

FamilyCalendar

Walk for Life

8:00 AM - 1:00 PM 1001 SportsPlex Pkwy, Opelika

The Walk for Life is a fun and easy way to BE Pro-Life and to make a real difference in the lives of women facing unplanned pregnancies. www.instagram.com/whauburn

Global Community Day Festival

9:00 AM - 6:30 PM 350 Biggio Drive, Auburn A day for bringing international and non-international communities together to learn and experience global culture, history, and related opportunities. Join us for fun filled activities for the whole family, make connections, enjoy arts and crafts, international fashion show, music from K-pop group, dance showcase by international student groups and south Africa dance groups, and many others. www.auburn.edu/outreach/global/communityday

3rd Annual The Sound Wall Garden Party

6:00 - 11:00 PM 605

Avenue B, Opelika Don your most festive, floral attire to join ninety-nine old and new friends at the Sound Wall’s Garden Party. You’ll enjoy an evening of music, food and creativity to benefit The Sound Wall Music Initiative (SWMI), a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to supporting music education and artist development in the Auburn/Opelika area. www.thesoundwallmusicinitiative.com/gardenparty-23

Flimp Festival

Montgomery Museum of Fine Art, 1 Museum Drive, Montgomery The MMFA’s annual celebration of imagination, creativity, and good humor is here. www.mmfa.org/event/flimp-festival-2023/

Sunday, April 16

Mad Hatter’s Tea Party

2:00-4:00 PM Junior League of Lee County, 1957 Fairway Drive, Auburn Take a trip to Wonderland! The Mad Hatter’s Tea Party, brought to you by the Junior League of Lee County with community volunteers and businesses, is an opportunity for 150 guests to attend an afternoon tea that includes: sandwiches and tea, a “Rather Curious” raffle, a personal appearance made by Alice (from our favorite Wonderland), and Familyfriendly event stations. These stations will include face paint, photo booths, and more kid-friendly activities. www.leecounty.jl.org/events/register-mad-hatters-teaparty-2023-2/

Monkey Park After Dark

8:30 PM Municipal Park, Opelika Bring a blanket or lawn chair and join us for an adults only date night at Monkey Park. Limited concessions will be available. Movie: Dazed and Confused. Ages 18+ with viewer discretion advised. This event is free and open to the public.

www.opelika-al-gov/716/Monkey-Park-After-DArk

Thursday, April 20

…And Dance!

7:30 PM through Sunday, April 23, 2023 Telfair Peet Theatre, 350 West Samford Avenue, Auburn Join Auburn professors and choreographers Adrienne

Wilson and Jeri Dickey, along with numerous honored guest artists from important moments in the program’s history. theatretickets.auburn.edu/Online/default.asp

The Hospitality Gala

The Hotel at Auburn University, 241 S. College St. Auburn The culmination of a semester’s long worth of hard work and planning. Guests will enjoy a reception with wine and hors d’oeuvres, a formal dinner featuring world-renowned chefs and winemakers, a live and silent auction and more in what has been the hospitability program’s signature fundraising event since 1992. www.thehospitalitygala.org

Third Thursday Poetry Series

6:00 PM Pebble Hill, 101 Debardeleben Street, Auburn Graduating Student Reading. The Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities in Auburn University’s College of Liberal Arts creates opportunities for people to explore our individual and collective experiences, values, and identities through the creativity of the arts and the wisdom of the humanities.

Friday, April 21

Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical Presented by OHS Theater

7:00-9:00 PM through Sunday, April 23 Opelika Center for the Performing Arts, 1700 Lafayette Parkway, Opelika Fearless optimist Anna teams up with rugged mountain man Kristoff and his loyal reindeer Sven and sets off on an epic journey to find her sister Elsa, whose icy powers have trapped the kingdom of Arendelle in eternal winter. Encountering Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman named Olaf, Anna and Kristoff battle the elements in a race to save the kingdom. www.facebook.com/OpelikaHighTheatreSociety/

FamilyCalendar

Saturday, April 22

Self-Care Saturday

Details on April 1.

O Grows Farms

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Details on April 1.

Spring Old 280 Boogie

11:00 AM to 9:00 PM Standard Deluxe, 1015 Mayberry Avenue, Waverly Come join in for a weekend of festivities with fantastic music, local food vendors, artisans, and great southern vibes! www.standarddeluxe.com

Smokey Robinson

7:30 PM Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 South College Street, Auburn A prolific singer-songwriter, record producer and executive, Smokey Robinson is a cornerstone figure of American music.

www.goguecenter.auburn.edu/smokey-robinson/

D1 Life Foundation 5K & Fun Run

8:00 AM- 12:00 PM Town Creek Park, 1150 South Gay Street, Auburn Join us in celebrating the inaugural D1 Life Foundation 5K & Fun Run! This race is in honor of AHS student Dylan Pegues, a dedicated brother, teammate & friend to all. The family can enjoy a relaxed 1-mile Fun Run or a challenging 5K which will start & finish at Town Creek.

www.d1life.org

12th Annual Bo Bikes Bama

Auburn Arena We invite you to join us in supporting the Alabama Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund. Join us in Auburn and choose from a 20-mile and a 60-mile route, or register to “ride from home” if you are unable to attend in person.

www.bobikesbama.com

Friday, April 28

Disney’s Frozen: The Broadway Musical Presented by OHS Theater

7:00-9:00 PM Details on April 21.

Saturday, April 29

O Grows Farms

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM Details on April 1.

Auburn CityFest

9:00 AM-4:00 PM Kiesel Park, 520 Chadwick Lane, Auburn Auburn’s largest free outdoor festival featuring live music, arts & crafts, fine arts vendors, children’s activities, food and more! FREE to the public and is a rain or shine.

www.auburncityfest.com

Auburn Food & Wine Festival

4:00-8:00 PM 957 Fairway Drive, Auburn Local chefs from The Depot, Vintage 2298, and more will prepare specialty bites to accompany a variety of sensational wines and beers. This is a walkabout event, feel free to stop by and stay the entire time or come and go.

www.auburnfoodandwinefestival.com

Saturday, April 29

Auburn Rodeo

Sistrunk Farms, 15400 US 80, Opelika Featuring artists Cody Johnson, Whiskey Myers, Shane Smith & The Saints, Hailey Whitters, the Auburn Rodeo will be an all-day event full of the best country music the Loveliest Village on The Plains has ever seen.

www.theauburnrodeo.com

Sunday, April 30

From Broadway to Hollywood

2:30 PM RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus Spend a fun and nostalgic Sunday afternoon with The Wave! From Broadway to Hollywood brings together great Broadway tunes and the amazing songs from the great Hollywood musicals of yesteryear.

www.rivercenter.org/event/from-broadway-to-hollywood/

May 3-4

Chicago

7:30pm Gogue Performing Arts Center. 910 S. College St, Auburn. After 25 years, Chicago is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmyshake: a universal tale of fame, fortune and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another and the most astonishing dancing you’ve ever seen. As we celebrate its 25th anniversary—plus the return of Broadway and a new, all-star cast. goguecentertickets.auburn.edu/Online/default.asp

May 4

Rain- A Tribute to the Beatles

7:30pm RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus. Songs from Abbey Road & the Rooftop Concert LIVE, in addition to all your favorite hits. rivercenter.org/event/rain-a-tribute-to-the-beatles/

Saturday, May 6

Johnny Ray Century Ride

704 North Railroad Avenue, Opelika. The Opelika Bicycle Advisory Committee’s Johnny Ray Century Ride for Parkinson’s Disease is presented by the East Alabama Cycling Club and benefits the Davis Phinney Foundation. Johnny Ray Century riders will tour the true backroads of rural Lee, Chambers, and Randolph Counties of East Alabama. www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064915320737 &ref=page_internal

May 6-7

Tootsie

7:30 PM RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus. This laugh-out-loud love letter to the theater tells the story of Michael Dorsey, a talented but difficult actor who struggles to find work until one show-stopping act of desperation lands him the role of a lifetime.

www.rivercenter.org/event/tootsie-2/

Saturday, May 13

Mother Daughter Tea Party

10:00am-12:00pm Opelika SportsPlex, 1001 SportsPlex Pkwy. Join us for an outdoor tea party featuring snacks, arts & crafts and photo booths. Dress in your Sunday best! Open to Mothers and Daughters of all ages. Cost: $15/daughter.

www.opelika-al.gov/717/Mother-Daughter-Tea-Party

May 18

Downtown Auburn Family Supper

6:00-9:00pm Downtown Auburn. The most unique dining experience returns to downtown Auburn. Join the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association for the Downtown Family Supper. Set under an array of string lights, over 100 guests will join together “family style” in the middle of Tichenor Avenue. Guests will enjoy multi-course offerings from downtown’s finest chefs. www.downtownauburnonline.com/events

Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

Work First, Play Later

Q. I brought about $15,000 in student loan debt into our marriage. I’m 26, my wife is 27, and we’ve been married a little over a year. During that time, our parents have helped us out with financial gifts occasionally. Whenever this happens, my wife and I get into an argument. She likes to use the cash they give us to have fun, but I think we should use it to pay down debt and get our finances in order. What is your opinion?

A. If your parents didn’t specify what the money is for, then it’s up to you guys to decide together how it will be used. In my mind, the fun needs to be put on hold for a while.

You’ve already told me you have at least $15,000 in debt. If there’s more debt in the picture, I’d advise listing all your debts, and begin knocking them

out from smallest to largest using the debt snowball system. Debt is risk, and as long as it’s around it’s eating up your largest wealth-building tool—your income.

I’m sure your wife is a good, smart lady. But it’s time she started being a little more mature when it comes to financial matters. Let her know how important this is to you and why it’s so important to your future as a couple. You two should be working together and getting your financial house in order as a team.

I recommend treating the money from your parents just like a paycheck. That means including it in a written, monthly budget, and taking care bills, debt, and any other financial responsibilities you have first.

Trust me, there’ll be plenty of time for fun later. The amount of student loan debt you have isn’t astronomical, but it does need to be cleaned up as fast as possible.

Once that’s taken care of, you’ll be able to really concentrate on saving and investing—and yes, some fun along the way!

AOP: You are an Assistant Director for a local early childhood center. Tell us more about this.

AC: I am Assistant Director at Big Blue Marble Academy on East Glenn Avenue. BBMA enrolls children six weeks of age up to five years old. We offer after-school care and a summer camp for ages 5-12. We have a Global Based Curriculum where we learn about different cultures monthly. We offer breakfast, lunch and snacks through Greens and Beans, a local business that caters meals to children in early childhood schools and settings.

AOP: Was pursuing a career in early childhood always something you wanted to do?

AC: Growing up, I didn’t exactly know what I wanted to do as far as a career. I knew I wanted to help people, but I needed to figure out how. So I started in childcare, and it has become my life. I get to spend time with my babies while helping love on someone else’s.

AOP: What about your career choice brings you the most joy?

AC: Being able to watch my kids grow while being loved and cared for at BBMA, and being able to love and care for other children at BBMA.

AOP: What was the most unexpected thing you have experienced as a mother?

AC: The most unexpected thing I have experienced as a mom is going to the doctor in December 2022 and leaving there in an

ambulance. I was told I had a pulmonary embolism and that it was a miracle that I was alive. I was in the hospital for 26 days. I had a cardiopulmonary bypass with a pulmonary endarterectomy - an open heart surgery that removed the blood clot. I am still recovering today. I have not physically lifted my kids since last year.

AOP: What do you feel is your greatest strength as a mother?

AC: My nurturing and calming nature. My ability to make any child feel loved.

AOP: What is your biggest fear as a mother?

AC: My biggest fear as a mother is my child not feeling loved or comfortable enough to talk to me as they age.

AOP: What is the most important lesson you have learned as a mother?

AC: Children are a blessing. When nothing in the world is going the course you expect, I can look at my child and know I am doing something correctly.

AOP: How do you handle challenging behaviors with your children?

AC: I always try to figure out what made them act that way or triggered whatever happened. We do breathing exercises. I ask questions:

• What happened?

• Are you hurt?

• Were you doing something you were not supposed to?

I typically take challenging behavior and make it a lesson so it does not happen again.

AOP: How do you help your children navigate social relationships and peer pressure?

AC: I tell them they are leaders, and being different is okay. I teach them that just because someone else has something you want doesn’t mean you have to have it too. I teach them that they are their own person for a reason.

AOP: What advice would you give to other mothers who are struggling with their parenting journey?

AC: Pick your child up. Hold them. Make cookies and bake cakes. Watch their silly shows with them. Get all the kisses that you can. Go to sleep every day knowing that if something were to happen to you, your kids would know you loved them. No mother is perfect, but we are in our child’s eyes.

Annquanetta Caldwell is the mother of three children: Armani (7), Amora (4), and Aydon (3). She loves her kids more than anything. Recently, Annquanetta became engaged to her fiancé Wynton. She has been working at Big Blue Marble Academy since 2020. In her spare time, she loves reading, drawing, and helping people.

Annquanetta Caldwell