Auburn Opelika Parents August 2018 by KeepSharing

August2018

Columns

Volume 9 Number 6

Publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note Kendra Sumner

Living With Children John Rosemond

If Kids Reject Sports

Ideas for keeping kids active when they avoid team sports.

Back to School Tips

Find 15 genius tips to prepare your family for back to school.

Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

24 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between

Common Sense Media

Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

After School Activities Our detailed listing offers a variety of after school enrichment plus registration dates.

Parenting Teens

Mark Gregston shares advice for rebuilding a broken relationship with your teenager.

A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Parenting Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Teens Mark Gregston

On The Cover Makai Gagliano, daughter of Charles and Drucilla Gagliano, is a senior attending Opelika High School this fall. She is an OHS Emissary and member of the Varsity volleyball and softball teams. She enjoys hanging out at the pool with her family, impromptu dance parties and backyard pick up games. She is looking forward to football games with her friends and all of the activities of being a senior.

Departments 6

Bits and Pieces 10

School Bits 46

Family Calendar 52

Movie Reviews 1

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Publisher’sNote

Auburn Opelika Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

I blinked and it was time to buy backpacks, school supplies, and send them off to school for another year of learning, creating, and growing! It’s that time of year again where routines at night and morning become the new normal. It may take a few weeks, but the school year schedule will settle in and the daily routines will all fall into place. There will be car lines and bus stops, homework, projects with deadlines, bedtimes and morning hustles, including shoes to find, backpacks to pack and lunch boxes to fill. All the while reminding them that this school year will be the best yet! For me and my children, we will have a new morning drop off and afternoon pickup that many of you may already relate to. This year, my four backpack-toting, eager to learn students will be in four different schools! I am now the mom of a high schooler, 8th, 6th and 3rd grader. In Auburn, this means four different schools (and car lines), with different start and end times for their school day, tons of teachers to stay in contact with, four PTOs and school events to add to my calendar, and four times the positive attitude and encouragement from mom to make this a wonderful year! It’s going to be an adjustment to get our home back-to-school ready after a fun, yet relaxing summer vacation. For us, it’s always hard to trade in the flip flops and sun block for backpacks and desk tops. For some motivation and help to start off on the right foot, I gained much needed insight from this month’s feature article, 15 Genius Tips for Back to School. According to the author, the best way to begin the new school year is to organize, plan ahead and get the kids involved and on board. One great tip mentioned is to brainstorm a list of lunch and snack options, including all the kids’ suggestions too. Then, stock the pantry and fridge with pre-sliced and pre-packaged, healthy lunch and snack options. This cuts out the guess work and extra time it might normally take during the morning hustle. Another helpful tip is to set up a homework station. Homework can be stressful for both parents and students. To get ahead of the homework drama, find a place in your home to designate as the homework area. With the help of your creative children, design a colorful, yet functional space that includes all the tools for homework success. While organizing a space, maybe organize a family master calendar. This is a good way to keep up with curriculum nights, PTO meetings, club informational sessions and after school activities that your children will be signing up for. Speaking of extracurricular activities…check out the 2018 After School Activities Guide for all the local classes and programs. There are dance/gymnastic programs, karate, music and art lessons, every sport you could think of, tutoring help and even after school care. If East Alabama has it, then the best place to begin your planning is right here in your hands. Flip through the list, highlight those that spark an interest and maybe let your kids try a trial class. Who knows? This year your student might excel in more than just their academic grades. They might discover a hidden talent or find a much needed outlet to explore interests. Or, best of all, making new friends and socializing outside the classroom can boost academic success and overall self esteem. Summer was another fabulous time for relaxation, vacations and much needed fun for the family. It will be another summer to look back on, filled with memories to last a lifetime. The school year is upon us and it’s time to organize for another year of learning. From one parent to another, here’s wishing your family another school year filled with growth and success!

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

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

Publisher Kendra Sumner Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Rian Anglin, MD Mark Gregston Christa Melnyk Hines Sarah Lyons Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Noelle Tran Cover Photography Lauren Beesley Photography www.lbeesleyphoto.com

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

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 475 Bennington Ct, Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2018 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Our Kids Won’t Stop Fighting Q: We have a boy, 6, and a girl, 9, who fight constantly about everything under the sun. My husband and I have a good marriage. We hardly ever have a serious disagreement about anything, so it’s hard for us to understand what has led to our kids’ inability to get along. In any case, their fighting has become very draining, especially to me because I homeschool and am with the children much more than is my husband. When they fight, I generally try to figure out which of them was in the wrong and make him or her apologize. My husband thinks that’s not helping. What do you think? A:

A much wiser man than I once said, “Forced apologies are morally meaningless.” In your situation, does the child who apologizes truly think he or she was in the wrong? No. When siblings have conflict, each of them thinks he/she has been the victim of some insult or offense from the other. It takes much more maturity and wisdom than is possessed by 6- and 9-year-old children

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

to see things from another person’s point of view. Is the apology, therefore, sincere? No. I suppose an argument could be made that it is “good practice,” but that’s idealistic thinking. The fact is that these forced apologies are probably making matters worse. What has led to your children’s inability to get along is their innate selfcenteredness. You and your husband have obviously modeled what a properly loving relationship looks (and sounds) like. But as I’ve pointed out many times in this column and elsewhere, parenting is not deterministic. That is the Freudian myth. As parents of prior generations understood, “every child has a mind of his own.” Good parenting does not guarantee a good outcome (and vice versa). Neither of your children are interested in a good relationship. They each want their own way. You and your husband want a good relationship. Each of you is willing to sacrifice self-interest to that end. It will be more than a few years before your kids are able to do the same – to put relationship above self - with one another or anyone else.

When parents “referee” sibling conflicts, things always go from bad to worse. For this reason, I nearly always recommend that parents not engage in trying to determine who did “it,” who did what to whom, who said what, who looked at the other sibling a certain way, etc. Hold both children equally accountable for disrupting the peace of the household. The first disruption of any given day earns both kids a good amount of time in their respective rooms (or separate rooms if they share space). That’s the warning shot. The second infraction earns them confinement for the remainder of the day – without electronic entertainment of any sort – and early bedtime. In my experience, consistent enforcement of this consequence-based program will begin to show good results within a couple of weeks and cure within a couple of months (albeit occasional enforcement may still be necessary for up to six months). The key is dispassion on your part. The emotional consequences of the problem must belong to the children, and the children alone. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Auburn Area Community Theatre presents “Silent Sky”

Imagine attempting to measure the heavens, while also taking measure of a life on Earth. “Silent Sky” is the true story of Henrietta Leavitt, the 19th century astronomer who wasn’t allowed to touch a telescope. While she struggled to balance her dedication to science with family obligations and the possibility of love, Henrietta and the women of the Harvard Observatory made discoveries that allow us to measure the distance between the stars and know our place in the universe. August 17-26 at Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn. $10/ Adults, $8/Students and Seniors. Tickets can be purchased at auburnact.org. Ticket info. (334) 332-0881. Lvm2245@gmail.com.

The Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee

The annual Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee is a fun night that allows businesses and organizations to determine who has the best spellers in Lee County! 2-person teams compete in a speed spelling bee with word pronouncing by "Voice of the Auburn Tigers" Rod Bramblett. Cocktails and BBQ begins at 5 PM with the spelling beginning at 5:30. August 9. Contact Lee County Literacy Coalition at 334-705-0001 or email stacie@ leecountyliteracy.org to register a team. www.leecountyliteracy.org.

6th Annual Sustainability Picnic

Come learn more about sustainability, while enjoying live music, fun, games, and door prizes! The food is free and vegetarian-friendly! The event will be at the Donald E. Davis Arboretum near the Old Rotation. This no-waste event will feature delicious and healthy food catered by Tiger Dining and live music. This is your chance to visit with local farmers that provide food to campus; connect with student groups, programs, and opportunities that make a difference; and meet official Picnic sponsors: Academic Sustainability Programs, the Natural Resources Management Major, Office of Sustainability, Tiger Dining, the Arboretum, and the Waste Reduction and Recycling Department. Wednesday, August 22, Arboretum, Auburn. 334.844.5770. Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

Author Talk and Book Signing: Becky Albertalli at Auburn Public Library

Join us, August 26, 3:00 PM, for a conversation with Becky Albertalli! Becky Albertalli is the award-winning author of “Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda”, now the major motion picture “Love, Simon”. Her other works include: “The Upside of Unrequited”, “Leah on the Off Beat”, and upcoming “What If It’s Us” in collaboration with Adam Silvera. Books will be available for purchase by the Auburn University Bookstore, and the author will be available to sign books. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival

Labor Day Weekend. Callaway Gardens, Ga. August 31-September 2, see hot air balloons soar, or take a tethered ride yourself in our picture-perfect farewell to Summer. The magic begins with the extraordinary Friday Night Balloon Glow, where dozens of balloons illuminate the night, and continue all weekend long. Spend your holiday engaging in a variety of family-friendly events, including live music, beach activities, and a Kids Zone, or escape for a quiet hike or bike along miles of winding trails. Delicious food and drink specials, beautiful accommodations, wonderful resort amenities, and simply spectacular scenery make this one sweet welcome to September. Highlights include: Tethered balloon rides, balloon glows, Live music and performances all weekend, Food and drink specials, Kids Zone, Beach activities, Classic car show, Disc dog demonstrations and more! www.callawaygardens.com.

Trinity Christian Back-to-School Events

Parent Night for Grades 2-6, Tuesday, August 7, 6:30 PM Parent Night for Grades 7-12, Thursday, August 9, 6:30 PM Open House (K-12), Friday, August 10, 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM Parent Night for Grades K-1, Friday, August 10, 6:30 PM School Begins, Monday, August 13, 7:50 AM www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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2018 Auburn Football Season Kickoff

First-ever meeting between storied programs set as Washington and Auburn open 2018 Season in Atlanta. The No. 7 Washington Huskies will face the No. 8 Auburn Tigers to open the 2018 college football season Sept. 1 at the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game in Atlanta. Kick time has been set for 3:30 p.m. ET at Mercedes-Benz Stadium and the game will be nationally telecast on ABC. The teams will battle for The Old Leather Helmet Trophy, one of college footballâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest rivalry-style icons. Traditionally, winners of The Old Leather Helmet don the helmet on the field after the game, starting with the head coach and then rotating from player to player as the team celebrates its victory. For more information, visit Chick-filAKickoffGame.com.

Family Discovery Hikes: Butterflies

We will enjoy a hike looking for bluebirds and their habitats! Explore the preserve and learn something new each month about plants, wildlife and nature with a trained naturalist who will offer your family fun opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and exercise! Discovery Hikes are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 PM for families with children ages 5 to 12. Each month features a new seasonal theme. Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, Auburn, August 14. Groups meet at the pavilion. Guided tours are free. Donations are welcomed. Cancelled in the event of rain. www.auburn.edu/preserve.

Back-to-School Pool Party

August 5, join the Aquatics Staff for allday games, music and fun at the pool! There will be special concessions for sale and back-to-school giveaways all day at the pool, from backpacks to notebooks and more. Admission is $2 per person or FREE with Splash Pass. 1 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6 PM. Samford Pool, Auburn. www.auburnalabama.org/pools.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

You Have the Power to Prevent Cancer Are you a parent of an 11- or 12-year-old? You have the power to prevent Human Papillomavirus (HPV) cancers and pre-cancers in your child! We can help prevent most HPV cancers with just 2 shots of the HPV vaccine. HPV is the most commonly contracted sexually transmitted disease among adolescents and adults. Approximately one out of four Americans are infected with HPV. Most people clear HPV within one or two years, but HPV infection persists in some people. Unvaccinated adolescents and adults with HPV are at an increased risk of the infection developing and progressing into the following cancers: cervical, rectal, anal, and vaginal. HPV can also infect the mouth and throat leading to oropharyngeal cancers such as tongue, throat, and tonsil. Researchers are currently studying the risk factors associated with oral cancers to see if participants who do not have certain risk factors like smoking still carry HPV in their mouths. Studies have shown that strand 16 is most responsible for oropharyngeal cancer which equally infects both males and females. There are three FDA approved HPV vaccines: Gardasil, Gardasil 9, and Cervarix. All three vaccines prevent infection from strains 16 and

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

18, which cause 70% of cervical cancers and a high percentage of other cancers. Gardasil also protects against strains 9 and 11, which cause 90% of genital warts. Lastly, Gardasil 9 provides additional coverage of cancercausing strains 31, 33, 45, 52, and 58. Even though the HPV vaccine is very efficacious, the national vaccination rate is 60% compared to 91.9% for Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR), 93.7% for Polio (IVP), and 82.7% for Haemophilus influenzae type B (H.Flu). A common myth about HPV is that boys do not contract HPV. However contrary to popular belief, boys do contract HPV, and they typically do not present with any symptoms until it is too late. It is important to vaccinate boys to prevent their chances of developing cancer and reduce the transmission rates of HPV. Decades of research have proven the HPV vaccines to be safe, effective, and providing lasting protection. By starting HPV vaccination at age 11 or 12, you offer the most HPV cancer prevention for your child. Children are vaccinated before they’re exposed to an infection—just like measles or pneumonia. The ideal time to vaccinate patients against HPV is when the patient is between ages 11 to 12 years old. This is because their immune system is better

equipped to make more antibodies compared to patients who receive the vaccine at a later age. The HPV vaccine is given as a series of two shots and doctors recommend that girls and boys get vaccinated against HPV at ages 11 or 12. The second dose should be given 6 to 12 months after the first dose. Normally at the 11- or 12-year-old check-ups, patients receive their meningitis and whooping cough vaccines. Add the HPV vaccine to list! Summer is winding down, but cancer prevention is revving up! Schedule your child’s a back-to-school vaccination appointment with your pediatrician and add the HPV vaccine. For information, visit www.hpvroundtable.org/ power/. * Contributed by Noelle Tran, OMS IV VCOM Auburn, Shenell Reynolds OMS IV VCOM Auburn, and Rian Anglin, MD FAAP. Contributed by Jarod Stevenson, OMS IV, VCOM and Rian Anglin, MD FAAP. Dr. Rian Anglin, a board certified pediatrician, was raised nearby in Valley, AL. She attended Auburn University were she graduated summa cum laude with a BS in Molecular Biology. Despite her strong allegiance to Auburn, Dr. Anglin graduated from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 2007 with her MD. Her passions in practice include promoting early childhood literacy, reducing toxic stress in childhood, and improving the practice of pediatric medicine through office based research. She resides in Auburn with her husband and their two sons.

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A Back-to-School Welcome LetterAutauga from Opelika City School s Superintendent Dr. Mark D. Neighbors County Schools Dear OCS students and families, I hope you have all had a fun and relaxing summer. The faculty and staff of the Opelika City Schools have been hard at work preparing for the 2018-19 school year. Preparations have included major construction work at Morris Avenue Intermediate School to replace the HVAC units and all of the cabinetry in the classrooms. In addition, ClearTouch panels have been installed in every classroom. The Opelika City Schools currently have 157 ClearTouch panels and 4356 Chromebooks in use throughout the system. Chromebooks will be distributed in each intermediate school this fall so that instead of going to computer labs, all students have a Chromebook in class. We will also continue our technology professional development for teachers to incorporate the newest technological instructional approaches. There has been a considerable amount of discussion locally and nationally about school safety. It is important for you as parents and community members to know that school safety is continually discussed and plans are updated often in the Opelika City Schools. Over the summer, many meetings have taken place with our administrators, board members, and city officials to ensure that we are taking the necessary steps to keep your children safe. Obviously, it is important that we know our students and their behaviors, but it is equally important that you as parents know the behaviors of your students and their friends so that if there is a situation that just doesn’t seem right, it can be reported. We want to be able to look out for each other to provide the safest environment for all of our children. Even though the tax renewal was in February 2018, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of the citizens of Opelika for supporting the renewal. The funds generated from this renewal are vitally important to so many programs that make our schools outstanding. We truly appreciate your support! I look forward to a great school year!

Enroll them in Kumon today! Enrolling your kids at a Kumon Center allows them to gain the full benefits of the Kumon Math and Reading Program, including having an instructor there to guide, motivate, and encourage them.

Back to school is the perfect time to advance your child’s math and reading skills. Many Kumon Students are studying above grade level. For 60 years, Kumon has benefited millions of kids around the world.

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Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

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Registration for Students Who Are New To the Opelika City Schools System Students enrolling in the Opelika City Schools system may register any time between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. Who can register: To be enrolled in kindergarten this fall, a child must be five (5) years old on or before September 2 of the year the child will be entering school. To be enrolled in first grade, a child must be six (6) years old on or before September 2 of the year the child will be entering school. All children who attend Opelika City Schools must live within the city limits of Opelika. Student transfers: Students transferring to the Opelika City Schools from other school systems need to first officially withdraw from their prior school system and request that transcripts be sent to the Opelika City Schools system, or bring an official withdrawal form from the prior school and we will send for transcripts. What you will need to register: Birth Certificate; State of Alabama Blue Certificate of Immunization; Child’s Social Security Card; Two current proofs of residency (gas, water, and electric bills accepted); Photo identification of parent or legal guardian (driver’s license, non-driver id, military id, etc.) to determine custodial relationship of child; Custodial Documentation (if applicable); Proof of Grade. Students Who Are Transferring Within the Opelika City Schools System Students transferring from one elementary school zone to another within the Opelika City Schools jurisdiction must first withdraw from the school he or she is leaving before enrolling in the new school. All fees and paperwork must be completed and cleared before any records can be transferred from one school to another within the system. Meal Prices Primary, Intermediate and OMS: Breakfast $1.00, Lunch $1.75. High School: Breakfast $1.00, Lunch $2.00. Visitors (all schools): Breakfast $1.75, Lunch $3.25. Bus Schedules Bus schedules will be available at each school and can be picked up on the first day of classes. School Supplies School supply lists are available on the website www.opelikaschools.org, at each school and at most local retailers. School Day Hours Primary Schools: 7:40 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. Intermediate Schools: 7:45 a.m. – 2:50 p.m. Opelika Middle School: 7:50 a.m. – 3:24 p.m. Opelika High School: 7:55 a.m. – 3:25 p.m. Opelika Learning Center: 7:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Board of Education Offices: 7:30 a.m. - 4:15 p.m. Opelika High School Delayed Start For the 2018-19 school year, OHS will have delayed start times on the following dates: 9/4/18, 11/13/18, 1/22/19, 2/19/19 and 3/11/19. Buses will run at normal times for those students needing transportation. Otherwise, students may report to school at 10:00 a.m. on the above dates. The callin bell will be at 9:55 a.m. Communication The Opelika City Schools will communicate information regarding school activities and announcements regarding inclement weather on the website www.opelikaschools.org, the Facebook page, Twitter, the OCS app and through the local media. School delays and/or cancellations will also be communicated through School Messenger, an automated messaging system. If your contact information changes during the year, please make sure to update the contact information at your child’s school. 11

Opelika City Schools 2018-19 School Calendar July 31, 2018 OHS Freshman Orientation August 2 Meet Your Teacher (grades K-5) 7:30-10:00 AM and 1:00-2:00 PM August 2 OMS Schedule pick up 10 AM for 6th graders (orientation and schedule pick up and 1:00 PM for 7th and 8th graders (schedule pick-up) August 6 First Day of School (full day) September 3 Labor Day Holiday October 15-16 Fall Break October 17 Professional Day (students do not attend) November 12 Veteran’s Day Holiday November 19-23 Thanksgiving Holidays December 20 1/2 day for students December 21 - January 3 Christmas and New Year’s Holidays January 4, 2019 Professional Day (students do not attend) January 7 Students return January 21 Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday February 18 President’s Day Holiday March 18-22 Spring Break (School dismisses March 15, 2019 and reopens March 25, 2019) April 5 Professional Day (students do not attend) May 23 Last Day of School (1/2 day for students) May 24 Opelika High School Graduation *If a school day is missed due to bad weather, students will attend school February 18 or April 5. Opelika High School Delayed Start For the 2018-19 school year, OHS will have delayed start times on the following dates: 9/4/18, 11/13/18, 1/22/19, 2/19/19 and 3/11/19. Buses will run at normal times for those students needing transportation. Otherwise, students may report to school at 10:00 a.m. on the above dates. The call-in bell will be at 9:55 a.m.

2018 Opelika City Schools Open House Dates Opelika High School August 6, 6:00 p.m. Morris Avenue Intermediate School August 14, 5:30 p.m. (3rd grade only) August 16, 5:30 p.m. (4th and 5th grade) Opelika Middle School August 21, 6:00 p.m. Jeter Primary School August 23, 5:30 p.m.-Kindergarten 6:00 p.m.-1st grade; 6:30 p.m.-2nd grade Opelika Learning Center August 23, 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Southview Primary School August 28, 5:30 p.m.-Kindergarten 6:00 p.m.-1st grade; 6:30 p.m.-2nd grade Carver Primary School August 30, 6:00 p.m. West Forest Intermediate School September 13, 6:00 p.m. Northside Intermediate School September 17, 6:00 p.m.

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A Back-to-School Welcome LetterAutauga from AuburnCounty City School s Superintendent Karen T. DeLano, Ed.D. Schools This summer has once again been one of many achievements for Auburn City Schools, with the completion of our thirteenth campus, Creekside Elementary, which will serve grades two and three. The 2018-2019 school year brings a lot of change from previous years in that the school system has implemented a realignment of school zones to acclimate to the addition of the new campus, as well as to keep demographics rich in diversity across the city. I want to thank the community for their feedback during this process as we could not do what we do without your support. This time last year we were in “moving mode” across all four of our secondary level adjusting to the shift in campuses with the opening of the new Auburn High School. As the City of Auburn continues to grow around us we strive to stay ahead of the trends not just locally, but across the nation in the field of K-12 education. The first day of class is Wednesday August 8th, and as superintendent, I would like to express my gratitude to all those who put in time and effort during the summer months to ensure the successes of this school system. My appreciation extends to all of our parents, guardians, community members, and the students as well. Without you we could not achieve the level excellence that has become expected in Auburn. ACS continues to excel academically, artistically and athletically, whether it is earning multiple AHSAA 7A Classification State Championships or having students and employees represent Auburn at the city, state and national level. The lists of accolades and recognitions are truly countless. I would like to welcome students and their families to what is going to be another successful school year for ACS. The City of Auburn continues to offer the unique atmosphere for maintaining a strong foundation for public education and committing resources to the school system as our municipality rapidly progresses. Many thanks are offered to our City officials, our Board of Education members and the citizens of Auburn for assisting the system in funding new facilities and renovations to existing ones. Back-to-school and contact information can be found at www.auburnschools.org or by calling your student’s school front office. Here is to making 2018-2019 an excellent year!

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

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Auburn City Schools Back-to-School Information Elementary Schools Meet Your Teacher Monday, August 6 AEEC, DRE, CWES (Grades K-2) 4:00 – 6:00 PM OES, WMR, PES (Grades 3-5) 5:00 – 7:00 PM RES (Grades K-1) 3:30 – 5:30 PM CES (Grades 2-3) 4:30 - 6:30 PM YES (Grades 4-5) 5:30 – 7:30 PM Drake Middle School Open House Monday, August 6 9:00 – 10:00 AM Panthers and Pumas 10:30 -11:30 AM Tigers, Cosmic Cats and Leopards East Samford School Meet Your Teacher Monday, August 6 8:30 – 10:00 AM Jaguars, Bobcats and Cheetahs 10:30 – 12:00 PM Cougars and Lions Auburn Junior High School Events: Meet Your Teacher, Monday, August 6, 2:00 – 4:00 PM Schedule Pick Up Day, Tuesday, July 31 9:00 – 11:00 AM 9th graders In the Cafeteria 4:00 – 6:00 PM 8th graders In the Cafeteria Auburn High School Events: Meet Your Teacher, Monday, August 6, 1:00 – 3:00 PM Reconnect Days Tuesday, July 24 9:00 - 11:30 AM Seniors Wednesday, July 25 9:00 - 11:30 AM Juniors Thursday, July 26 9:00 - 11:30 AM Sophomores

Please send your school news to: kendra@auburn opelikaparents.com. 13

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Autauga County Schools

Drake Students Visit DeSoto Caverns

The Summer Success Students at Drake Middle School recently completed the thematic learning unit on rocks and Earth sciences culminating in a trip to DeSoto Caverns! This opportunity was made possible through Donors Choose and Ripple! A special thank you to the Southern Disability Foundation for providing the hot dog roast for our students.

Auburn HS Student Competes in National Special Olympic Games

Auburn High student, Eric Cha competed in Seattle at the national level of the 2018 Special Olympic Games and he was selected to participate in the Unified Experience to play on the blue team alongside Courtney Thompson, a setter for Team USA Volleyball! Courtney earned a Silver Medal in London in 2012 and a Bronze Medal in Rio in 2016. Congrats to Eric!

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Educational Theatre

East Samford’s Theatre Director Dr. Silvia Scaife and Language Arts Teacher Michelle Hopf went to Lincoln, Nebraska with a group of students attending the 2018 International Thespian Festival! They attended performances of “Newsies” and “One Man, Two Guvnors,” "The Visit" and "Freaky Friday," This is an excellent opportunity for our educators and students to learn from professionals and hone their skills as performers and producers.

ACS Secondary Students to Receive iPads

The 2018 D.A.R.E Campers donated 775 pounds of goods to the Food Bank of East Alabama recently! Summertime is the most crucial time of year to give because the gap in services when school is out of session increases and the Food Bank becomes the main source of food distributed within our community. To learn more about the Food Bank of East Alabama visit http://foodbankofeastalabama.com.

In a meeting of the minds, ACS Tech Director Dr. Connie Bain and her leadership team walked AJHS Principal Ross Reed and AHS Principal Shannon Pignato through a demo of the new iPads set to be distributed at the start of the school year for the “Providing Authentic Creative Engagement” (PACE) initiative at the secondary level that will put an iPad in the hands of every student. Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

Community Partners

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DUKE Tip Scholars at Opelika Middle School

The 2017-18 Duke Tip Scholars were named in April 2018 at Opelika Middle School. This group of 7th grade students is selected each year based on scoring at or above the 95th percentile on an accepted grade level national standardized achievement or abilities test or at or above the 95th percentile on a state assessment. Duke Scholars include: Alondra Alfaro, Samuel Anderson, Leah Bales, Leah Bethea, Madison Blaschke, Linsey Boies, Robert Brasher, Caleb Chisum, Liseth Colorado-Vera, Kaden Cooper, Susannah Couey, Raina Curtis, Jaleigha Doolittle, Will Garner, Kadiri Gates, Ann Marie Halverson, Tristan Hart, Emily Hess, Nathan Jamieson, Morgan Jones, Norah King, Stanley King, Ally Kinser, Keâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Aja Lee, Levi Martichuski, Charles McCullough, Jared McKay, Justin McKemie, Kasman Moss, Timothy Nelms, Darsh Patel, Harsh Patel, Christopher Pinckard, Elliott Poole, Keely Rider, Italy Slaughter, Aaliyana Smith, Bryce Speakman, Kalie Strickland, Nylen Thomas, Joshalyn Tolbert, Paola Torres Morales, Kaylee Traylor, Allie Vickers, Morgan Watts, and Brenton Williams. In addition, two outstanding students, Susannah Couey and Justin McKemie, qualified for the Duke TIP State Recognition Ceremony in Tuscaloosa. The sponsor of the Duke Tip program at Opelika Middle School is Mrs. Emily Finck, School Counselor.

Teachers Attend Quarterly Meeting

Planet Fundraiser in Birmingham recently hosted the Alabama School Public Relations Association for their Summer 2018 quarterly meeting (complete with lunch from Taco Mama)! Topics of discussion included Adobe Photoshop, Adobe Spark, marketing plans for individual schools, the APR process and of course NSPRA 2018 coming up in July.

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Autauga County Schools

OHS Senior Jamie Lowe Named Ron Brown Scholar

Congratulations to Jamie Lowe on being selected as a Ron Brown Scholar! Lowe was awarded the scholarship in late March 2018. Following an extensive application process, Lowe was selected as a finalist and was invited to Washington, D.C. for the program’s selection weekend. The weekend involved multiple interviews and a formal dinner. In March 2018, Lowe was named one of the twenty-eight national recipients, and the only recipient from Alabama. The Ron Brown Scholar Program (RBSP) honors the legacy of Ronald H. Brown through a selective scholarship program that advances higher education for community-minded and intellectually gifted African Americans. RBSP competitively awards Ron Brown Scholars four-year $40,000 scholarships to the most talented and economically-challenged high school seniors who demonstrate a keen interest in public service, community engagement, business entrepreneurship and global citizenship – the four pillars of the late Ronald H. Brown’s mission to uplift people of all races, cultures and ethnicities – especially our disadvantaged youth. Congratulations Jamie!

AHS Yearbook Staff Wins Awards at Summer Workshop

The Auburn High School Yearbook staff attended the recent Josten's Yearbook Summer Workshop at the AU Hotel and the group won several awards including: - Best in Layout Design - Excellence in Theme Development - Michael Cline (Class of 2021) won first place in the Food Category of the photo contest and Best Overall Photographer.

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

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Lee-Scott Academy Welcomes New Principal

Please join us in welcoming Dr. Mary Anna Martin-Smith as the new lower school principal at LeeScott Academy! Dr. Mary Anna Martin-Smith comes to Lee-Scott Academy with close to 30 years experience as a teacher and administrator. Her time as an educator has been spent as a teacher in Opelika City Schools and administrator in Auburn City Schools. Her most recent assignment was in Auburn as an administrator at Ogletree Elementary School where she served an assistant principal and principal from 2002-2018. She is a 1990, 1991 and 1992 graduate from Auburn University with a B.S., M.Ed. and Ed.S. in elementary education, respectively. She is a 2001 graduate of the University of Alabama with her educational doctoral degree. She earned her certification in administration from Auburn University and has served as an adjunct professor in the Department of Educational Foundations and Leadership at Auburn. She also attended the University of Connecticut. She is married to Robert Smith and they share two children, Celeste and Rob.

Professional Development

Auburn City Schools secondary level Principals went to Orlando to sharpen their leadership skills at the 2018 Model School Conference! Auburn City Schools is always striving to be better by investing in our people. We look forward to what this group brings home for our students, staff and schools.

Auburn DARE Camp kicked off recently at Ogletree Elementary! Thank you to our School Resource Officers, APD, AFD and the local retired Marines for dedicating a week to guiding our youth to make smart decisions as they leave elementary school to further their education with Auburn City Schools. 16

Auburn DARE Camp

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Pick Elementary Named Top 10 School for Fundraising

Pick Elementary has been named in the top 10 schools for fundraising in the Alabama/Gulf Coast region for 2017-2018. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) expressed their gratitude to Principal Debbie Brooks for Pick's commitment to their mission to cure cancer and help those who are currently battling. "Pick Elementary School has been such an amazing ally with our Organization and we value the partnership so much," said Tricia Center, Campaign Manager for the LLS (Student Series). SEE FULL LIST HERE: http://www.studentseries.org/alabamagulf-coast-0 The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society is the world's largest voluntary health agency dedicated to blood cancer. The LLS mission: Cure leukemia, lymphoma, Hodgkin's disease and myeloma, and improve the quality of life of patients and their families. LLS funds lifesaving blood cancer research around the world and provides free information and support services.

OHS Philanthropy 101 presents $7200 to Local Non-profit Agencies

Members of the Opelika High School Philanthropy 101 program presented a total of $7200 in monetary donations to seven local non-profit organizations at the fourth annual presentation and luncheon at OHS on June 21, 2018. Ten students gave presentations on selected non-profits and presented each group with a check. Recipients included: Exodus Ranch, Miracle League, Storybook Farm, Big House Foundation, Opelika Grows, and JeanDean RIF. The three-week program, for rising seniors at OHS, introduces students to the principles of philanthropy and brings those principles to life through classroom learning and hands-on experiences. The program is sponsored and funded by the W. James Samford, Jr. Foundation. Philanthropy 101 Members pictured (l-r): Ms. Stacy Guyton-OHS Philanthropy Instructor, Gus Bell, Caroline Hawkins, Jah Williams, Ayrika Harris, Lucinda Samford Cannon-W.James Samford, Jr. Foundation, Ethan Lindsey, Montel Norman, Ishan Patel, Makai Gagliano, Celeste Frazier, Martavia Burditte, Mr. Don Shirley-OHS Philanthropy Instructor.

The City of Auburn Parks and Recreation

FALL BROCHURE is available for pick up and online.

2018 Fall Program Registration begins Monday, August 6. Registration is in person at the Harris Center beginning at 8 a.m. Register for arts, fitness, ceramics, homeschool classes and more. Pick up a copy of the fall brochure at any Auburn Parks and Recreation facility or the Auburn Public Library.

For more information visit www.auburnalabama.org/parks 17

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Autauga County Schools

Congratulations to the Google Educators

Congratulations to the latest cohort of Opelika City Schools teachers to earn their Google Educator Certification. These teachers are truly transforming the classroom experience for their students. They are all amazing educators! Deidre Fenn - Jeter Primary School; Mary Fleming - Jeter Primary School; Ashlee Newton - Carver Primary School; Molly Clark - Carver Primary School; Melissa Cook - Northside Intermediate School; Emily Grace - Northside Intermediate School; Mary Clark - West Forest Intermediate School; Rachel Turnham - Morris Avenue Intermediate; Michaela Daugherty - Morris Avenue Intermediate; Oneika Smith - Opelika High School; Stacey Guyton - Opelika High School; Kelly Baal - Opelika High School; Mandi Edwards - Opelika High School; Amanda Kelley - Opelika Middle School; Emily Sanders - Opelika Middle School; Rainbow Sidwell - Opelika Middle School.

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Lee-Scott Academy Students Serve at DARE Camp

Fifteen LSA students served as team leaders at Auburn's D.A.R.E. Camp this year held at Ogletree Elementary School! We are so proud of our students and their commitment to give back to our community.

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BROWN, XAVIER BROWN, XAVIAN BRYANT, LYNTEIGH BURNELL, ALEX BURNEL', KAI BYRD, KAYLEE BYRD, QUANIYAH CARLISLE, MALAYSIA CARNEY, ASHER CARTER, CHARLES CARVER, ANNABELLE CARVER, SARAH F CHAMBERS, NYASIA CHANDLER, SHELBY CHENG, FRED CHENG, KEVIN CHILDS, EMMA CHILDS, ARMIAH CHURCH, ROSS CHURCH, LUKE CLARK, BRYLEE CLAYTON, BAYLOR CLAYTON, BRANSON CLAYTON, BRIGGS K CLAYTON, TRENTON CLINKSCALES, THOMAS COCHRAN, ERIC COLE , CLAY COLLINS JR., JAMIE COOPER, JOHN H COPELAND, DAZSHA COSENTINO, AVA CROWE, VIOLET CULLIGAN, KADYN CUPP, ANNA CUPP, TAYLOR DARNELL, BENJAMIN DAVIDSON, JARRED

DAVIS, EMMA (ALLAYNA) DAVIS, CAMPBELL DAWSON, AVA DAWSON, SADIE R DECKER, MEGAN DECKER, TOMMY DELOACH, CULLEN DILLMAN, AMELIA DOLEMAN, TARON DOMINGUEZ, SARAH DORSEY, KAMORRIS DRIVER, AKELIA DUNN, BREELYN DUNN, SHAMIRACLE A DUNN, JAYCE EDWARDS, CADE EDWARDS, CHASE C EDWARDS, ZA•MARIYAH ELLIOTT, KIEFER ENDICOTT, ALAYNA ENDICOTT, ALYSSA ENDICOTT, ASHLYN ENDICOTT, GRANT N ERATH, AUDREY ERATH , BEN ERICKSEN, STELLA R ERLANDSON, NOAH ESPARZA, ELLA ESPARZA, GEORGE EXUM, CHRISTIEN FLORES, PAYTON FLOWERS, KAMRI FORTE, GABRIEL FOSTER, NATHAN FOSTER, WILSON FOSTER, JACQUELINE FOSTER, JOSHUA FOX, GEORGE

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FOX, GRACE FRAZIER-SCOTT, TIANNA FREEMAN, CASSADY FULFORD, HAILYN GANN, RYLEIGH GAMER, JAIDEN K GARNER, KAELIN (MILAN) M GARNER, KAI A GARNER, SYDNEY K GOLDEN, WILLIS GOODNER, FENN T GOODNER JR., WILLIAM GOSS, JOSIAH B GRAHAM, JACKSON GREER, KTOEE GRIMTH, CARA GRIGGS, AUDREY GRINER, JENERAL HAGAR, WILLIAM HALE, EMMA HAMILTON, ILIJAH J HARE, HAYDEN HARRELSON, HUNTER M HARRIS, PEYTON L HARRIS, JAMES HARRIS, AUTUMN HARRIS, ZAYDEN HARRISON, MADISON HARRISON, CEDRIC HARRISON, MORGAN HARVEY, QUA' SHAWN HAWKINS, COLTON HEATH, KARSYN HEMMATI, ARIANNA HENNIGAR, ELLA R HENRY, JOHN TAYLOR HERREN, KYLON HIETT, LANDRY HILBURN, BRANTLEY HILL, JACKSON HILL, JADEN HILL, HUDSON HILL , THOMAS HILLYER, LUCY HILLYER, NELSON

HIXON, MADELYN HIXON JR. , JAKYRA HOLLOWAY, GARRETT HOOKS, CASSIUS HOOKS, JALISSA HOOKS, JAQUAVIOUS HOOKS, SHANIYA HOOPER, MADISON HORNSBY, ALEXANDRIAH HOVEN, EDIE HOVEN, ELOISE HOWARD, AVERY HOWELL, WILLIAM HRUSKA, SARAH HUDSON, ROBERT IBANEZ, ERIC IBANEZ, GABRIELLA INABINET, BRADLEY INABINET, DAVIS INGRAM, HANNAH INGRAM, GARY D ISMAIL, LEENA JACKSON, GABRIELLA JACOB, HIRAM JENKINS, CALEB JOHNSON, KOHEN JONES, COLLINS JONES, 'UNDREA JONES, ANGELINA B JONES, KENNETH L JONES, CHAPMAN JONES, ADDIYSON JORDAN, BLAKELY JUAN, AMY JUAN, MANUEL M JUN, ETHAN KARKOSKA, GEORGIA J KELLY, BLAKE KIM, HYUNIE KIMBRELL, ADDYSON KIMBRELL, BELLA GRACE KIMBRELL, GRAYSON KING, JAYDA KINSELLA, KEELAN KINSELLA, SKYLA

KITCHENS, CORY KITCHENS, MORGAN LAKEMAN, AVERY LAKEMAN, OLIVIA LASHLEY, JAMES LEE, JOSEPH LEE, EMMA'YN LEE, HA-EN LEE, JACOB LEE, JOSHUA LOPEZ, ADRIEL LUCAS, HAIDYN MACHEN, AVA MADDOX, CARIA MADDOX, DERRICK MARLEY, CLINTON MARLEY, LILY MARTIN, JORDYN E MARTIN, JOURNEE R MARTIN, CATHRYN MATHIS, SAWYER MAYBERRY, REID MAYBERRY, RYLAN MAYTON, KAMERYN MAYTON, STEPHANIE MCALLISTER, CAITLYN MCALLISTER, OLIVIA MCCALL, ANTHONY MCCALL, BRIONNA MCCARLEY, AVERY MCCARLEY, WILLIAM MCCULLOUGH, KAMARIA MCDANIEL, BRADEN MCDANIEL, TAYLOR MCDONALD, CHLOE N MCDONALD, MICHAEL W MCGREGOR, LANDON MCKEE, LILLIAN MERRITT , JONATHAN METHMAN, KODITHUWAKKU MIDDLETON, WYATT MILLAN, STEPHANIE MILLER, RENFEE MITCHELL, ELLA KATE MITCHELL, LUKE

MITCHELL, ZANIYAH MONTERO, CARLOS MOORE, JUNE MOORE, CLYDE "CAYSON" MOORE, KAMOREE MOSS, LEIGHTON (BELLA) MURPH, DALEAH MURPH, DREDEN NEMON, CALLIE J NICKERSON, HANNAH NIGGEMEIER, HAYDEN NIGGEMEIER, JAXON NORRIS, PAXTON NWAEZE, EBUBECHUKWU OGLE, HAILEY OGLETREE, ALEXANDRIA ORTIZ, JOSELYN PASCHAL, CANDICE PATERSON, TY PAYNE, BOWLIN PELHAM, BLAIR PELHAM, CATE PELHAM, REESE PELHAM, TREY PENN, JANIYA PERDUE, BRIANNA PERDUE, JAVONTAE PEREA MONTIEL , KATHERINE S PETERSON, MATTHEW H PETERSON, KARSTEN PHILLIPS, ELIJAH PHILLIPS, GRAYSON PHILLIPS, JUDSON PINTO, SADIE PITTS, TYRE PFAIR, DAILEE POGUE, KYLEE POWELL, COURTNEY POWELL, TROY POWELL, CLAYTON POWERS, LUKE RAFFENY, WILLIAM RAGSDALE, RAELYNN RAMEY, COLLIN

REAVES, ANNE R REAVES, PRATHER REED, HARPER REEDER, BRADY REEDER, RILEY REGAN, ASTON REIFF, WILLIAM RILEY, LANDON ROBERTS, ELLIS ROBERTS, ERNOLY ROBINSON, DE' PRINCE K ROBINSON, JALEYA S ROBINSON, KENZLI S ROBINSON, COLIN ROBINSON, WILLIAM ROBINSON, MICHAEL ROBINSON, MICHAELIA RODRIGUEZ, HILIANA M ROSS, ZYUNA (MARIAH) RUSHING, TANNER J SAGASTEGUI, RICHARD SANCHEZ, SALVADOR SCHUTT, ANNA KATE SCONIERS, MAKAYLA SCOTT, KAMARI SCOTT, KAYDEN D SEABORN, SYDNEE SHACKELFORD, CASEY SHACKLEFORD, KYLIE SHERRIFF, WOODS SHOCKLEY, STEVEN SHOPE, SAMUEL T SHORT, JENNA SIMMONS, EMILY SIMMONS, KATHERINE SIMS, ZAMARI SIMS, HUNTER SIMS, SOPHIA SINDO, WILLIAM SISTRUNK, CALEB SKINNER, CADEN SKINNERS RYLEE SMITH, DERRELL SMITH, CAROLINE C SMITH, SARAH K

SMITH, SOPHIA SMITH, AKEELAH STADLER, MADISON STAFFORD, HALEY STAPLER, BRITTANY STAPLER, BROOKLYN STAPLER, KAITLYN STAPLER, MADISYN STAPLER , CADENCE STAPLES, MALAYSIA STENDER, BRENDYN STEPHENS, DAKODA STEPHENS, ELAND STEPHENS, TURNER STEVENS, BRANTLEY H STOKES, KOJI STRICKLAND, WYATT STURKIE, DERRICK SUDDUTH, BRAYDEN SWAIN, AMAR'E SWENSON, EMALINE TAN, EMILIA TAN, JAMES TATUM, MIA TATUM, TRISTAN TAUNTON, CAROLINE TAYLOR, JALEIGH TAYLOR, COOPER TAYLOR COOPER D THOMAS, ELIJAH THOMAS, JAYCEON THOMAS, JOSHUA THOMAS, ALEXIS THOMPSON, JAMES THORNTON, EPHRAIM THRIFT, BRITTANI THROWER, GRAYSON THROWER, HARPER TIDWELL, CLAYTON TIDWELL , ALEXIS TOMAS, TOMAS TRAN, ANGELIE TRAYLOR, MICHAEL TRAYLOR, SADIE TRAYLOR JR, ADAM R

TRIBBLE, EASTON TURNER, CHARLES VAUGHN, CAMDEN VEGA, DIEGO VEGA, MARELY VELEZ, MAKAYLA VIDAL, HELEN VOCINO, CAROLINE VOCINO, MADISON WARD, BAILEY WARD, HAYDEN WARREN, NOAH WARREN, NOAH WARREN, KYION WARREN JR, CONTEH WEBB, ANDREW WEBB, HANNAH WEBB, SAM WEBB, TIMOTHY WEBB, TUCKER WHITE, BROOKE WILDER, MARGIE GRACE WILDER, SHEPHERD WILDER, WILL WILLETT, ANNA G WILLIAMS, JOHNELL WILLIAMS, CHLOE WILLIAMS, JACKSON WILLIAMS , JOHN WYATT WILLIAMSON, KATELYN WILSON, CHASE WILSON, SLOANE WOOD, CAMERON WOODS, AHNIYA M WYNNE, SAILOR YOCUM, EMILY YOCUM, MADETYN YOCUM, RYAN YORDY, CAUSEY YORDY, CURTIS YOST, GRANT

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Employees Trained in CPR

A group of Auburn City Schools employees participated in CPR training with Nurse Administrator Brenda Lindahl at East Samford School! Not only did the class learn the most updated methods of cardiopulmonary resuscitation for adults, children and infants, but also the Heimlich maneuver and how to use an AED (automated external defibrillator) in the event of cardiac arrest or heart attack. They are all now CPR certified by the American Heart Association until the summer of 2020! ACS is always looking for ways to increase knowledge for our employees especially in the event of emergencies.

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AHS Student Serves as â&#x20AC;&#x153;Secretary of Stateâ&#x20AC;?

Auburn High's Daleya Scaife was elected to serve as Secretary of State at Alabama's American Legion Auxiliary Girl State at the University of Alabama! The purpose of this program, which began as one of the youth activities of the Americanism Committee of the American Legion Auxiliary, is to educate young women in the duties, privileges, rights, and responsibilities of American citizenship in order that they may understand and participate in the functioning of their government and to help them grasp the meaning of some of the responsibilities they must assume as they become adults.

T r i n i T y

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TradiTion For over thirty-five years, Trinity has been committed to a biblical Christian world-view, and its classical educational philosophy has been proven through thousands of years of learning experience.

Congratulations to the Opelika High School Class of 2018!

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Autauga County Schools Auburn HS Cheerleaders Attend Camp at Univ. of Alabama

The Auburn High Cheerleaders attended UCA cheer camp at the University of Alabama where they took home awards that included the campâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Leadership Award! This award is voted on by other squads attending the camp. Also, sophomore Hailey Tschetter was named Jump Off Champion and 10 of our seniors were named All-American. Congratulations to all the girls on all their hard work!

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

Soccer Camp at Lee-Scott Academy

Great week of soccer camp on the LSA campus! Thanks to the junior varsity and varsity players who gave their time to work with these future players. Congratulations to rising 3rd grader Simon Young and rising 6th grader Brooks McFadden who were awarded their first LSA soccer jerseys for their participation and efforts in camp!

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AHSAA Presents Sportsmanship Awards to Seven OHS Athletes The Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA), Senator Tom Whatley, and Dr. Farrell Seymore presented sportsmanship awards to seven Opelika High School athletes on July 10, 2018 in the OHS Sports Arena lobby. The athletes were nominated by coaches and school administrators. Pictured (l-r): Will Beams, Cole Lazzari, Timothy Scott, Londarius Baldwin, Jaylin Cumins, James Dawson, and Cade Blackmon. OHS was tied with only one other school in Alabama for receiving the most sportsmanship awards.

Lee-Scott Academy Thespians Attend Festival in Nebraska

Mrs. Oliver and students from LSA attended their first International Thespian Festival in Nebraska this week! We are so proud of our students who participate in the arts.

ACS Podcast

Auburn City School's Dr. Betty Schiffer and Chris Hardman were joined by entrepreneur and True40 Owner Allie Weingarten and True40 Instructor Anna Bandy (former Auburn High Cheer Coach) to discuss pursuing active healthy lifestyles and building positive relationships.

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Autauga County Schools

Former Drum Major for Auburn University Visits AHS Band

The Auburn High Marching Band had Jeffrey Rowser as a special guest stop by for a visit! With nearly 40 years of music education under his belt, Rowser was the first African American Drum Major at Auburn University and the entire Southeastern Conference in 1978; more recently he was named Auburn University College of Education’s 2018 “Outstanding Educator." He is currently Director of Bands for Morgan County High School in Madison, Georgia. It is always nice to have masters of their craft share their experiences and knowledge with our young people.

Dean Road Teachers Experience Google Expeditions in Chicago

Dean Road teachers journeyed through the land of dinosaurs and then deep inside the human respiratory system with Google Expeditions at the ISTE EdTech Conference in Chicago. Our teachers were excited to explore with virtual reality goggles and learn about the positive impact these goggles are having on students’ learning experiences in the classroom. The session gave our teachers a chance to explore and learn while also supporting a local Opelika educator who was leading the session for teachers from all over the world.

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Get Ready for Kindergarten with Practical Tips

5 Ways to Bring Rules Back After Sumer

Kindergarten is a formative year for families, as kids acquire the foundational skills they’ll build on for a lifetime (and parents learn the value of healthy home habits and encouraging independence). Here are some handy tricks and tools to help your kindergartners -- and you -- get ready for the school year.

If you and your kids went a little overboard on screentime this summer, you’re in good company. According to a Harris Interactive poll, about half of all parents say their kids watch more TV, play more video games, surf the Web more, and watch more movies during the summer months. With back-to-school upon us, it’s time to re-establish some limits on media. These strategies can help you get a jump on things:

Arm kids with soft skills. Ease your kids’ entry into the early days of their educations by helping them develop and refine essential “soft skills.” From encouraging them to get along with others to supporting their ability to self-regulate, these six skills are important building blocks to having a successful school year.

Have a last blast. Plan a special media-centered event that the whole family will enjoy -- something you couldn’t do during the school year. A movie in the park, an all-day video game session, a binge-watching marathon of streaming shows are all fun ways to say, “so long, summer.”

Nurture responsibility. Time-management tools can motivate kids and help them develop responsibility, organization, and independence. There are lots of handy apps to help keep kids on track, and even designed to help little kids with morning routines.

Prepare your kids. Talk about the routine changes that come along with the school year. Discuss the concept of “balance” -- a daily mix of exercise, reading, social and family time, school work, and entertainment. A week before school starts, get serious about bedtime, and turn off the TV, games, and electronic devices at least an hour before hitting the sack. The stimulation of media makes it hard for kids to settle down.

Share stories about school. Lots of kids are excited about stepping into their big-kid shoes for kindergarten, but the transition isn’t always seamless. Sweet stories about kids going to kindergarten and funny back-to-school movies can soothe and entertain nervous students -- and their parents.

Create a school-year media plan. Take out a calendar, and work with your kids to create a weekly schedule that includes homework, chores, and activities -- plus TV, games, movies, etc. Kids don’t always understand the concept of “Thursday,” but if they see their activities written down, they know what to expect and when to expect it.

Skip the back-to-school buying frenzy. Don’t turn your kindergartner into a walking advertisement. Learn how to avoid the rampant marketing and consumerism of the back-to-school culture. And when you shop for school supplies, consider stocking a backpack for a kid in need or organizing a school supply drive -- you can teach your tot about sharing while you’re at it.

Raid the library. Go for the books, but also find out whether your local branch offers programs for kids -- like puppet shows, reading hours, or other activities. It’s like a little baby step to school.

Get involved. Take an active role in your children’s early education. Talk to the teacher about your kids’ challenges, as well as the activities at which they excel. Help at home by sharing educational tools designed specifically to enhance pre-K skills. Fun apps and games can offer an extra boost to nurture young interests and developing social-emotional skills -- and kids won’t even realize they’re learning.

Remember you’re their role model. Sneak your iPhone under the table, and your kids will catch you. Model the healthy media habits you’d like your kids to follow. Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

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Coding Fun for Digital Age Kids

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Toys and games offer maximum value when they teach new skills, when they stretch muscles both physical and mental. With more of our everyday lives connected to computers, apps and smart technology, the future is increasingly dictated by code. Introducing the basic concepts of coding to children not only gives them an early advantage in the future jobs landscape, but also teaches critical thinking skills, problem solving and tenacity. Coding also offers kids a sense of empowerment when they begin to grasp and implement the basics of coding, as they learn the secrets that drive the software, apps and websites they use everyday. The following items are entertaining introductions to coding for kids with an eye on the future.

by Gerry Paige Smith

COJI: The Coding Robot Toy

Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set

Before they dig into actual coding languages, kids can explore programming the COJI robot with a language they already understand... emoji! Combining emoticons and other familiar electronic symbols with arrows and images, youngsters can use this universal language to control their COJI. Using a smartphone or tablet with the COJI app, kid quickly pick up the way to ‘code’ commands that will have the robot moving, sounding off, and responding with emoji on its screen ‘face’. Just like with any coding, much of the process is trial-and-error, but COJI’s hilarious responses to mistakes will keep kids engaged while they master their troubleshooting skills. Not limited to device engagement, COJI can operate without the app or after screen time has ended. Accessible for kids regardless of reading level or math skills, COJI: The Coding Robot Toy is an early coding confidence builder!

While the irony of teaching code with a mouse isn’t lost on parents who depended on a mouse before touch screens arrived, the notion of coding a ‘mouse’ to navigate a maze is perfect for engaging kids as they program their way to success. Using a customizable maze board with walls and tunnels, the simple controls on the back of the mouse lets users plan its path. This coding set includes 16 maze grids, 22 maze walls, 3 tunnels, 30 double-sided coding cards, 10 doublesided activity cards, cheese wedge, and activity guide to provide a hands-on introduction to coding concepts. Young coders can also take the action off grid, creating original obstacles and paths with pillows, toys or anything the Code & Go Mouse can scoot around. Excellent for cultivating children’s ability to estimate distance and predict outcomes, each new coding of the robot mouse builds confidence and gets them one step closer to programming their own path to a bright future!

(Wowee)

Let’s Go Code

(Learning Resources) The youngest set can dip their toes into the world of coding in a non-digital way, free of electronic screens with the Let’s Go Code game! Using double-sided pictorial ‘coding cards’ kids can plan their desired path and formulate the strategic moves that will get them to their destination. The cards dictate the players’ actions, their forward strides, pivots and other moves “coded” to get them to the finish. Featuring 16 EVA foam mats, 20 coding cards, and fun die-cut pieces, the set includes a full-color guide with a coding overview and maze examples to get kids started. Flexing physical and mental muscles, this engaging exercise in basic coding is a fun and forward-thinking introduction to programming for the kindergarten set!

(Alex Toys)

Described in broad strokes, code is a representation of something else. While it may seem incomprehensible in its basic form, code can translate into a recognizable element when it reaches its end point. Future Coders Poppin’ Pictures demonstrates this process using a series of coded tiles. Using a suction cup pen, kids follows a coded ‘map’ as they place tiles onto a grid in a variety of configurations. When complete, the correctly placed tiles resolve into a picture. It’s a great introduction to representational thinking while fostering concentration and patience. Supporting important pre-programming skills like sequencing and analytical thinking, Poppin’ Pictures offers right-brain fun seasoned with some rigorous left-brain exercises.

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

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

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(Learning Resources)

Future Coders Poppin’ Pictures

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Allow Them to Earn It Q. Our daughter just turned 10 years old. Is now the right time to start giving her an allowance, and start teaching her about money?

A. I’m glad you’re going to teach your daughter about money. But in my mind, there’s never a time for an allowance. I believe that kind of thinking, and using words like “allowance,” are some of the best ways to instill an attitude of entitlement in a child. I don’t think you want your daughter growing up with the idea she deserves money simply because she’s alive. My advice is to develop a method by which she can earn commissions. Write down a daily or weekly list of jobs around the house that are age-appropriate she will be responsible for doing. Then, at the

end of the week, she gets paid for jobs she completed — and she doesn’t get paid for the ones she didn’t do. The idea is to teach her that work creates money, and teach a healthy work ethic at the same time. Of course, there are some things a child should be expected to do without financial reward. Everyone needs to pitch in, and do certain things to help when they’re part of a family. And once you’ve taught her about the importance and rewards of work, make sure to also teach her about the three uses for money — saving, spending, and giving!

Step by Step Q. When is the right time to buy a house when someone is following your Baby Steps plan?

A. That’s a good question. Let’s start by going over the first few Baby Steps. Baby Step 1 is saving $1,000 for a beginner emergency fund. Baby Step 2 is paying off all consumer debt, from smallest to largest, using the debt snowball. Baby Step 3 is where you increase your emergency fund to the point where you have three to six months of expenses set aside. Once you’ve done all that you can begin saving for a home. I’ll call it Baby Step 3b. For folks looking to buy a house, I advise saving enough money for a down payment of at least 20 percent. I don’t beat people up over mortgage debt, but I do advise them to get a 15-year, fixed rate loan, where the payments are no more than 25 percent of their monthly take-home pay. Doing it this way may take a little more time, and delay your dream of becoming a homeowner a bit, but buying a house when you’re broke is the quickest way I know to turn something that should be a blessing into a burden!

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Team sports are a great way to keep kids active but not all kids enjoy playing them. When kids avoid team sports, parents look for other ways their children can continue to be healthy and active. How can you get your kids moving around when they aren’t part of a sports team? Encourage lifelong activities Choose activities that have the potential for lifelong enjoyment such as biking, swimming, walking, and hiking. These activities are great because while they can be done individually, for a lifetime, they also can be enjoyed as a family. Encourage everyone to go on a walk or bike ride together, hike in a local park, or spend the day at the pool. Give your kid a camera and let him photograph the beauty of the outdoors. Get a step counter for each family member and create a friendly competition to see who can get the most steps.

Go outside Simply getting your kids outside can be a great way to sneak in exercise. Visit a local park, encourage them to climb trees, swing, or play tag. Have your child go on a “treasure hunt” in the backyard and col-

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lect items that interest them like sticks, rocks, flowers, or leaves. Catching fireflies in the summer, building a snowman in the winter, or raking leaves in the fall all help kids to be active while not playing a sport.

Individual sports Just because your child does not enjoy team sports does not mean they may not enjoy an individual sport. Gymnastics, swimming, track and field, wrestling, diving, archery, golf, or weight lifting are all good examples of individual sports where children compete against themselves.

Limit screen time When screen time is allowed, try to encourage them to move while they are watching television. If a song comes on, get up and dance or march along. If they are playing video games, encourage games that involve movement. If the child is sedentary while enjoying screen time, ask them to complete some sort of activity like chores or outdoor play before they turn the television or tablet on.

Set an example Children learn by example. If the parent has a low activity level the child will most likely see exercise as a low priority. Lead by example and get moving. Begin an exercise routine or a hobby that includes movement, like gardening, and invite your child to join you. Make the most of the time together.

Dance and theater Turn on the music and have a family dance party. There is nothing like a great song to get a body moving. Dancing is fun and it’s great exercise too. Some children may also enjoy trying dance classes, baton twirling, or cheerleading. All of these are a great source of exercise. If your child is drawn to music and theater get them involved in a theater production in school or your community.

Find a new hobby Encourage your child to find a hobby that encourages movement and activity such as skateboarding, fishing, bowling, and woodworking. If the child is doing something they enjoy they won’t even notice they are also exercising.

Play Leisure sports can be more fun for kids that don’t care for team sports because they are less competitive and therefore have less pressure to perform at a higher level. Encouraging kids to play gets them active. Playing frisbee or frisbee golf, tag, catch, shooting hoops, and duck duck goose all require kids to run around. They will be having so much fun they won’t notice they are exercising.

Chores Chores are a great way to get kids active and teach them the value of hard work at the same time. Ask your child to clean their room, vacuum, mow the lawn, or sweep. Consider paying them an allowance for more motivation. While team sports have many benefits, they are not for everyone. Kids who do not enjoy team sports don’t have to be less active. With these tips, kids will enjoy an active lifestyle that can be maintained for a lifetime. AOP Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and has been published in 20+ other parenting publications.

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A Page in a Book Loving the Local Library From ancient times when clay tablets and scrolls were collected together for scholarly use to today’s immense digital collections, libraries have evolved into vital collection points for science, history, culture and stories that reflect the human experience. As perhaps the most inquisitive humans of all, children are important patrons of our modern libraries. Free and entertaining, today’s libraries strive to provide exciting opportunities that introduce new readers to their collections. The following titles celebrate the library and its welcoming service to every young mind in search of stories - old and new.

Willy’s Stories

by Anthony Browne (Candlewick Press) Every week, Willy passes through the doors that send him on amazing adventures. Told in the first person, the main character, Willy, uses each two-page spread to relate his personalized adventures that launched from behind those doors, each tale left open-ended with an opportunity for the reader to contribute their thoughts on the action. Inspired by tales from the famous authors of children’s literature, each narrative offers a taste of stories that demand further exploration and invite readers to pass through ‘the doors’ near them. Without mentioning the word ‘library’ once, Browne’s rich storytelling and illustrations easily convey the wellspring of stories that launch Willy’s flights of imagination - and where young readers can also find the ultimate source of adventure.

A Big Surprise for Little Card

by Charise Mericle Harper, Illustrated by Anna Raff (Candlewick) Living among fellow cards who each have a very specialized task, Little Card is eager for the day when he discovers what job he will be selected to perform. When Little Card is sent to Happy Birthday Card school for training, he’s elated to learn all the tricks of the celebration trade. But a mix-up in assignments reveals that Little Card was not supposed to be a Birthday Card and he’s whisked away to a building full of books to perform his true task. While his loud “Happy Birthday” shout must be muted, Little Card soon discovers that the fun activities and the rainbow of books in his new environment offer all new adventures to celebrate. An ideal introduction to kids who are about to receive their first library card, this title also offers a gentle primer on best behaviors in a library setting.

The New LiBEARian

by Alison Donald, Illustrated by Alex Willmore (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) The children are all in place for storytime at the library, but Ms. Merryweather who reads the stories is late. Restless and ready for a story, the assembled kids disperse to find their missing storyteller. Ranging through the maze of bookshelves they discover paw prints leading to the librarian’s desk (which is sticky with honey). And sitting in Ms. Merryweather’s chair is a new librarian, a big character covered in fur with not much to say. The kids clamor for a story but the new librarian’s storytelling style consists mostly of roars, growls and stomping. When Ms. Merryweather returns, apologizing for her delay, she’s ready to read ‘Goldilocks and the Three Bears’ to the children. But the picture book is missing one of its most important characters! With a sweet twist at the end for observant fans of fables and storytime, ‘The New Libearian’ offers a wink and a nod to the immersive nature of group storytelling at the library. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Every parent has that one trick up their sleeve that helps make life just a little simpler in the midst of a hectic school year. Read on for some of their best tips, clever tricks and genius hacks for back to school. Plan your meals.

Steer clear of the drive-thru on hectic evenings by taking 10 minutes each weekend to plan simple meals for the week. With a complete grocery list in hand, head to the store to purchase everything youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need. To further simplify planning, Gina Nichols, a mom of four and a Wildtree freezer meal consultant, recommends prepping food when you get home from the store, filing favorite recipes for easy reference and maintaining a well-stocked

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

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pantry. Theme nights like pasta on Mondays, tacos on Tuesday, etc., can also help. Ask your family for their suggestions too.

Schedule grocery delivery. More grocery stores now offer online ordering and delivery services, helpful for families who dislike grocery shopping or struggle to stick to a budget when there. Stock the freezer. Stash your freezer with healthy casseroles, soups, sauces and crockpot meals to make dinnertime a no-brainer on busy weeknights. “Try to make your cooking always do double duty. Make a little extra of everything and if you don’t want it right away, freeze it,” Nichols says. Establish a snack/brown bag lunch station. Designate a

shelf in your kitchen or pantry for parentapproved snacks and lunch items. Tape a list inside the cupboard door with lunch ideas. On Sundays, pre-pack snacks that kids can easily grab like trail mix, pretzels, granola bars or cereal. Stock the refrigerator with fruits and veggies that have been pre-washed/cut, as well as

cheese and yogurt sticks. To save time in the mornings, help your children make their lunches and pack their snacks the night before.

Share the daily action plan. Laurie Loud-

enback hands her kids, ages 10 and 12, a clipboard each morning which includes the day’s schedule, chores, and screen time limits. “This chart has been pretty life-changing,” says Loudenback, whose husband Scott designed it (see photo). “The first thing the kids say in the morning is ‘I need my chart.’”

Set up a master calendar. Post a white

board with the week’s calendar to help everyone in the family know what to expect in the coming week. Use color-coded dry erase markers for each family member’s activities and cold or hot lunch preferences.

Hold family meetings. Alexis Sanchez, mom of

four, says she gathers her family on Sunday nights to discuss the week ahead, including upcoming activities and “to brainstorm

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distractions. Create a homework caddy stocked with notebook paper, pens, pencils, crayons, colored pencils, rulers, and highlighters-anything your child might need to complete an assignment.

Make a homework plan. If your

child struggles with organization, go through their backpack together. Make a stack for the night’s homework and help your child prioritize what needs to be completed first. Use a calendar to help them plan long-term assignments.

Use a timer. If your child gets overwhelmed by lengthy math worksheets or other difficult assignments, try using a timer like the Time Timer app and set a goal. For example, after he completes 10 problems, take a break for a quick snack. “Frequent breaks are important in helping students and their parents with homework,” says Amber Dawkins, a former teacher and a mom to a four-year-old son.

PHYSICIANS TO CHILDREN

welcomes

DR. MALISSA HOY Now accepting new patients ages newborn to 18 years

Be ready to meet a few new parents at back-to-school functions who you’ll want to reconnect with later. Mom of two, Kristal Ronnebaum suggests handing out a family calling card. “It’s a method of sharing your contact information in a fun and creative way,” Ronnebaum says. You can also hand the card to babysitters, carpool drivers and new neighbors (attached to a small housewarming gift).

P H Y S I C I A N S TO C H I L D R E N C h i l d re n s A L . o rg / p hys i c i a n s - t o - c h i l d re n

any kinks” that need to be worked out in the schedule.

Spruce up backpacks. Extend the

life of a much-loved backpack by giving it a back-to-school cleaning. Depending on the material, backpacks can generally be hand washed, spot cleaned or placed in a laundry bag or pillow case and run through the washing machine. Be sure to empty out all of the pockets and vacuum out crumbs before hand. If you hand wash it, soak it in warm water for 15 minutes with a teaspoon of laundry detergent. Rinse well and air dry. Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

the school groove by attending school orientations, ice cream socials or sneak-a-peeks. “Even reconnecting with one or two friends or meeting a teacher in person before the first day of school can make a difference to a child,” Dawkins says.

Connect in a memorable way.

P HYS I C I A N S TO C H I LDR E N Taylor Medical Complex 470 Taylor Rd, Suite 210 Montgomery, AL 36117 (334) 293-5033 P

Attend back-to-school functions. Help your child get back into

Manage paperwork. “Everyday

after school,” Sanchez says, “we have a mandatory ‘empty your book bag’ rule.” Her children file important documents like those that need to be signed by a parent into an office divider. Label a folder with the name of your child and school year to easily collect artwork and other keepsakes throughout the year. Sanchez keeps her folders in a plastic file box.

Create a homework station.

Designate a well-lit place in your home where homework can be completed without 34

Encourage rest. A successful school

year requires quality sleep. “Start edging those bedtimes back a week or two in advance of school starting,” Dawkins says. Maintain a regular evening routine that helps your child unwind before bed, such as a warm bath or shower and reading time. Also, build unstructured time into your child’s weekly schedule for playing with friends and pursuing creative endeavors. AOP

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two school-age boys. She is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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Art Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 17

222 East Drake Avenue Auburn, 36830 Act I: Acting classes for beginner and advanced students inspires imagination and creativity, teaches teamwork, and builds confidence. Act II: Come and learn new skills or build on previous theater experience. Students will be exposed to theater fundamentals through scene works, improv activities and more. Act III: Come and learn the thrills of the stage! Through this class, you will gain new acting skills involving expression, spontaneity, team work, stage presence, and so much more. Whether you have been on the stage many times or never before, don’t miss out on this creative experience! Creative Kids: The young artist will be introduced to basic drawing and painting with a fun subject while developing learning and creative skills. Creative expression will be emphasized while students work with a variety of media such as watercolor, oil pastel, color pencil, pencil, ink and collage. Kids Can Draw: Cartoons: Learn how to draw fantastic cartoons using geometric shapes. Then, we will up the ante by learning about special effects, emotions and costumes. By the end of the quarter, each student will have created their own unique character and comic strip. Small group instruction. Skill level: basic, no prior experience required. All supplies will be included. Mommy and Me: We Make Leaf Bowls! Mommy and Me classes are designed for parent and child to work together to create beautiful works of art. Projects are intended for the toddler/pre-school age group. Our Mommy and Me classes are a great way to spend a creative morning together and have a beautiful keepsake when you are done! In this class we will be creating fantastic leaf bowls. Christmas Ornament Workshop In this class we will be designing beautiful Christmas ornaments to adorn your tree or have as a keepsake! Arts and Crafts for Kids: Paper Quilling and Origami: Paper Quilling is the art of rolling narrow strips of paper into scrolls and arranging them to form elegant art. Students learn how to roll the scrolls and shape them into decorative patterns. Passport to a World of Clay: Book passage for a trip around the world as you learn or further develop your knowledge of clay hand building techniques to make souvenirs of your travels from far-flung ports-of-call. Adventures will include making and understanding the cultural significance of Swedish DalaHorses, Chilean Chanchicos, Chinese Wall Pockets, Mid-eastern Hamasa Hands and Japanese Haniwa. Private & Semi-Private Art Lessons: Watercolors, drawing, mixed media and more. A private lesson is for one student and semi-private lessons Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

are for two students; the students can be siblings, family members, friends, etc. Sketching with Pencils and Watercolors: In this fun and engaging class, students will learn how to draw, shade and create gradation with pencils. Learn about watercolor and acrylic painting. Students will develop basic art skills and techniques through these sketching and painting practices. 334-501-2944

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

The Art Studio ad on page 7

118 North Ross Street Suite 2 Auburn, 36830 After school Art Classes: Open Teens Studio - Mondays 4:30-5:30, Teen Painting - Mondays 5:00-6:00, Painting & Printmaking Wednesdays 3:30-4:30,

then create works of art by exploring color mixing, painting, drawing and collage activities while using different art tools and supplies. There will be an ending art show for the students to show off their work. Advanced Pottery: Meets for two weeks; four hours per meeting. Class includes advanced instructional materials. Kids Pottery: Choice of a class on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday.

334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Sew-thern Belles Sewing Studio

923-J Stage Road Auburn, 36830 We offer a structured, fun environment where children learn while having a blast! Students learn all aspects of sewing including how to thread a sewing machine, how to read a pattern, and how to make clothing and accessories. The classes culminate in a fashion show. 229-869-6775

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www.theartstudioauburn.com

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts

901 South College Street Auburn, 36830 Learn, create and explore at JCSM during the fall Saturday Art Club. Three stations are designed for younger students (K-2nd grade), middle students (3rd-6th grade) and older students (7th-12th grade). Parents are encouraged to work with their children, or learn more about the role of art in your child’s life at the Parent’s Table. 334-844-1484

www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1102 Denson Drive Opelika, 36801 Exploring Creativity: Art students will experiment with colors, lines, shapes and textures. They will

Before/After School Care Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center ad on page 4

128 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 Open 7:00am - 5:30pm. Transportation from schools available. Children engage in many developmentally appropriate, hands-on activities that promote learning in language, fine & large motor skills, the arts, math, science, and social-emotional skills. Nationally Accredited through NAC and Licensed through Alabama Department of Human Resources. 334-821-8125. www.auburnfbc.org/wordpress_20150529/ministries

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Bonnie’s Kids ad on page 15

2314 Enterprise Drive Opelika, 36801 Pick up from school for Beauregard, Opelika & Auburn for after school programs. 334-745-6248

www.bonnieskidschildcare.com

Core After School Center ad on page 7

1311 A Opelika Road Auburn, 36830 After School Care: Do you need safe, affordable, and reliable after school care for your child? Children will follow a daily schedule of receiving a healthy snack, completing homework, and interacting socially with friends. School Drop Off: Do you need morning transportation for your child to get to school? The center will open at 6:30A.M. to receive your child, and we will deliver your child to school by 7:10A.M. (Limited space available.) School Pick Up (Auburn Only): Do you need for us to pick your child up from school? We will pick your child up from Auburn area schools at the end of each school day and bring him or her to the Core Afterschool Center. Academic Tutoring and Remediation: Do you want your child to gain a strong academic foundation? We will monitor and work with your child on academic assignments daily. We welcome full or part time K-5th grade children to provide tutoring or remedial help. Part-time students will need to be registered, and parents are asked to call and arrange times for part-time help. 334-521-5252 coreafterschool@att.net www.coreafterschoolcenter.com

Growing Room Child Development Center ad on page 22

644 North Dean Road Auburn, 36830 We believe Learning Can Take You Everywhere! We offer a language based curriculum focusing on math, science & self-help skills, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, extracurricular programs include JumpBunch, Dance, Big Green Bus, & Spanish. We also prove before and after school care to most Auburn City Schools. 334-501-2044

www.growingroomusa.com/auburn

Growing Room Child Development Center ad on page 22

1755 Thomason Drive Opelika, 36801 We believe Learning Can Take You Everywhere! We offer a language based curriculum focusing on math, science & self-help skills, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, extracurricular programs include JumpBunch, Dance, Big Green Bus, & Spanish. We also prove before and after school care to most Opelika City Schools.

334-748-9020 www.growingroomusa.com/locations/ growing-room-opelika

Auburn City Schools

332 East Samford Avenue Auburn, 36830 Extended day offers children the opportunity to have individualized tutoring, participation in creative activities, and interaction with peers. Tuition prices are on a sliding scale based on lunch status. Activities such as art, sports, computer, music and movement, and other clubs added throughout the year help children interact socially and physically with children of all backgrounds in their community. Tutoring allows individualized instruction tailored to student’s learning styles and levels of understanding therefore improving grades and self-esteem. For more information, please contact your child’s school. 334-887-2100

www.auburnschools.org

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Auburn Day Care Center

410 Boykin Street, Room 14 Auburn, 36830 Afterschool pickup and care. 334-821-4060.

Auburn United Methodist Church Discovery Club After-School Program 137 South Gay Street Auburn, 36830 Students can be picked up at their schools and transported to the church for homework, snacks, crafts, cooking, recreational activities, devotionals and mission projects. 334-826-8800

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County

400-B Boykin Street Auburn, 36830 An after school Youth Development program that serves youth Greater Lee County. Afternoons begin with a healthy snack followed by Power Hour: Making Every Minute Count in which club members spend time reading, receiving homework assistance and tutoring. The evening is filled with fun

Dance/Baton Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 17

425 Perry Street Auburn, 36830 Auburn DanceWorks Pre-School Ballet: Students

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www.aumc.net

Child Care Network

702 Second Avenue Opelika, 36801 Before and after school pick up for most Opelika City Schools.

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Creative Discovery Child Dev. Center

1675 Shug Jordan Parkway Auburn, 36830 “Where Discovery Leads to Learning!” After school pick up at Auburn City Schools, Lee Scott, and Indian Pines.

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Health Plus Fitness Center

1171 Gatewood Drive Auburn, 36830 Afterschool Rules! The place to be for homework, fitness, and fun. Pick up from Auburn Early Ed Center, Cary Woods, Yarbrough, Lee-Scott and Drake Middle School. 334-887-5666

www.healthplusfitness.com

Milestones Learning Center

1811 East Glenn Ave Auburn, 36830 Children learn through direct, hands-on experiences with people, objects, events, and ideas. Kindermusik, ABC Music and Me, Premier Tumbling, The Big Green Bus, and more! Fall registration going on now! Afterschool care and transportation available. 334-887-4391

www.milestoneslc.com

Miss Deanna’s Childcare

1901 Corporate Drive Opelika, 36801 After school transportation and care for Opelika City Schools. 334-745-7139

Miss Deanna’s Childcare

1745 East University Drive Auburn, 36830 After school transportation and care for Auburn City Schools. 334-821-0066

Opelika City Schools Extended Day

Extended Day is a program sponsored by the Opelika City Schools to provide a safe, friendly environment for children who need after school care. CARES offers tutors, homework assistance, recreation, school clubs, special activities, field trips, and other areas of enrichment for children who attend elementary schools in Opelika.

334-745-9700

www.opelika-al.gov

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

programming in five core areas including character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills; the arts, and sports, fitness, and recreation. 334-821-6020

pharrison@bgcleeco.org

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County

1610 Toomer Street Opelika, 36801 An after school Youth Development program that serves youth Greater Lee County. Afternoons begin with a healthy snack followed by Power Hour: Making Every Minute Count in which club members spend time reading, receiving homework assistance and tutoring. The evening is filled with fun programming in five core areas including character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills; the arts, and sports, fitness, and recreation. 334-745-2582

ybatts@bgcleeco.org

University Daycare Child Care Center

2900 Waverly Parkway Opelika, 36801 Before and after school care and pickup available. During the school year, our school age children have a set schedule that provides a snack, active play inside or outside and quiet time for homework and relaxing. 334-203-1234

www.udcauburn.com

are encouraged to express themselves creatively while learning and practicing left/right orientation and simple movement skills that are the basis for ballet techniques taught in a formal ballet class (bending, stretching, jumping, turning, leaping, galloping and skipping). Ballet class is an excellent place to practice social skills such as taking turns and respecting personal space. Auburn DanceWorks Pre-Ballet: Building on our Pre-School syllabus, Pre-Ballet introduces students to formal ballet terminology and technique, encouraging the use of proper terms. Students will engage in traditional barre exercises and age appropriate movement while celebrating the uniqueness of each child. Auburn DanceWorks Ballet I: At this level, students continue to practice ballet posture, simple barre, center, jumps, turns, port de bras and folk steps, with increased emphasis on outward rotation of the thighs, use of demi-pointe and 3rd position. IAMBK Creative Dance I Beginners: The purpose of this class is to familiarize students with several genres of dance including Hip Hop, Jazz, Spiritual, Improvisation, African, Irish, Ballet, and Modern. Students will learn basic skills from each style and improve general flexibility and physical fitness. Students will learn choreographed routines and will work collaboratively with drama students to perform at the end of the session. Master guests artists will provide specialized workshops and field trips are included.

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

IAMBK Creative Dance II Intermediate: The purpose of this class is to help youth enhance their dance skills in various dance genres (Hip Hop, Jazz, Spiritual, Improvisation, African, Irish, Ballet, and Modern. IAMBK Dance Team Advanced: The purpose of this class is to enable youth with dance experience to further develop their skills, choreograph dances, perform and compete in dance competitions across the state of Alabama. 334-501-2930

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Ballet Academy ad on page 9

1703 Westend Court Opelika, 36801 The Ballet Academy specializes in classical dance training which includes Ballet Technique, Pointe, Variations, and Pas de Deux (partnering), as well as instruction in Modern, Contemporary, and Tap. Ballet Academy also offers an Adult/College Ballet Class, Acro, Pointe Conditioning, Pilates, and Core Conditioning which consist of strengthening the core abdominal and back muscles utilizing excercises from the Pilates and Yoga curriculm. 334-737-5551 balletacademyopelika@gmail.com www.myballetacademy.net

Tiger Twirlers ad on page 37

189 East University Drive Auburn, 36830 Taught by Gail Hammitt, Former Auburn High School and Auburn University Majorette. Lessons held inside Max Fitness. Special baton performance at Auburn University Events. 601-630-6994

Variations Dance ad on page 12, 35

323 Airport Road, Suite E Auburn, 36830 18 months and up. Now Accepting Registration for

our 2018-19 Season! Courses offered in all levels of dance including Preballet, Ballet, Pre-Pointe, Pointe, Hip Hop, Jazz, Tap, Musical Theatre/Broadway, Lyrical, Contemporary, Stretch, Leaps and Turns, Company, Tumbling and Acro and Compeition Teams.

has been a featured guest on The Today Show, in USA Weekly Magazine and serves as choreographer and general coordinator for the Lee County’s Junior Miss program. Our state of the art facilities are in a freestanding building designed specifically for dance.

Auburn Pointe School of Dance

Rising Starz

334-275-5013

www.variationsauburn.com

1100 South College Street, 202 Auburn, 36830 Tots and Preballet, Classical Ballet, Jazz, Modern, Contemporary, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Pointe, Pad de deux, and company 334-740-5118

www.aupointe.com

Celtic Traditions School of Irish Dance

2705 Fredrick Road, #3 Opelika, 36801 We spread the joy of Irish dancing through classes and performances. Classes include intricate footwork, musical timing and tune recognition, proper Irish dance technique, stage presence, flexibility, teamwork, rhythm, importance of working towards goals, and much more! 334-705-0303

www.celtic-traditions.net

Make Your Move Performing Arts Studio

1220 Fox Run Pkwy, Suite 212 Opelika, 36801 Dance classes for boys and girls of all ages including Baton, Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Acrobats, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Combination classes and more. Offering recreational and competition classes. 334-705-0205

www.makeyourmovedance.com

Nix Dance Studios

850 Stage Road Auburn, 36830 Celebrating our 53rd Year! We offer classes for ages 3 and up. Choose from Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary, Hip Hop, Baton, Pointe, and Company. Since 1966, Nix Dance Studios have set the bar for excellence in dance performance. Nationally recognized artistic director, Paula Nix,

334-887-7250

www.nixdancestudios.com

2140 East University Drive Auburn, 36830 Offering ballet, tap, jazz, contempary, tumbling, baton, musical theatre and acting. 334-209-1464

www.risingstarzstudios.com

Educational AU Multilingual After School Program ad on page 21

351 West Thach Concourse (Haley Center) Auburn University, 36849 The multilingual after-school program offers a mix of academic and recreational multilingual study on campus, serving K-9 students in the AuburnOpelika area. The objective of the program is to prepare the students for successful careers in the global economy by developing their language skills and cultural awareness. What makes this program unique is its high-quality language education and exciting and engaging multicultural activities. 334-559-9023 info@synchroeducation.com www.synchroeducation.com

Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 17

425 Perry Street Auburn, 36830 Leap for the Stars Literacy & Academic Tutoring: The purpose of this class is to assist

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334-501-7000

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

943 Ou beg gro sho mo are and the ins young children with math, reading and science skills with hands on activities and exploration that will motivate them to make better grades in school. Learn Computer Programming: An easy to use style. This program was designed with a beginner in mind and is very easy to use for those with little or no experience. Please bring a laptop with Wi-Fi capability to each class. Work to Excel Job Readiness Program: The purpose of this class is to prepare teenagers for jobs. Class instruction, volunteer and job shadowing opportunities (with pay) are provided. 334-501-2930 iambk@ymail.com and samuel.focht@ gmail.com www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Fitness

Xtreme Athletics

My Gym Auburn ad on page 23

300 North Dean Road, #6 Auburn, 36830 6 weeks-12 years. Tiny Tykes, Wadlers, Gymsters, Mighty Mites, Whiz Kids, Ninja Training, Cardio Kids, All Star Sports, Zumba and more! Offering structured, age-appropriate, weekly classes that incorporate music, dance, relays, games, special rides, gymnastics, sports and more. Children have loads of fun as they gain strength, balance, coordination, agility and flexibility while developing social skills, confidence and self-esteem. 334-246-0987

www.mygym.com/auburn

HealthPlus Fitness Center

1171 Gatewood Drive Auburn, 36830 Kid’s Gym- The goal is to provide a safe, friendly environment for your child to explore health and fitness through supervised play. Activities include climbing wall, scooters, basketball, relays, kickball, tag games, dodgeball, jump ropes, swimming, board games and more. Infant Swimming Resource- a nationally recognized survival swimming program which teaches infants and toddlers ages 6 months to 6 years using the ISR Self-Rescue™ method. Water Babies and Swim Lessons- swim lessons offered throughout the year. Youth Swim for Fitness- 12 session water fitness program; ages 7-17. 334-887-5666

Kumon Math and Reading Center of Auburn/Opelika ad on page 10

1550 Opelika Road, Suite 36 Auburn, 36830 As a global learning method with more than four million students worldwide, Kumon has become the most successful after-school math and reading program. Kumon helps accelerate your child’s learning - from as young as 3 all the way through high school. Free placement tests are administered by appointment. 334-501-8586 robertcox@ikumon.com www.kumon.com/auburn-opelika-al

Scribble No More ad on page 39

Auburn, 36830 Today, it’s ABC’s and 123’s...Tomorrow, It’s ACT’s & SAT’s. Handwriting is a basic tool- but probably the most important tool- that your child will use throughout life. Poor handwriting can have a persuasive effect on school performance. Th way your child presents his/her work speaks volumes about them. Good handwriting can boost self-esteem and motivate children, which can only mean better grades and less headaches for you when it’s time for homework and testing. Let me help tutor your child to better handwriting skills. 334-703-5923

www.facebook.com/handwritinghelp

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

www.healthplusfitness.com

Gymnastics/Cheer/ Tumbling Auburn Gymnastics Academy

703 West Samford Ave Auburn, 36849 Gymnastics lessons, teams, beginners, intermediate and advanced. 334-844-9098

Opelika Parks and Recreation Power Tumbling and Trampoline

1102 Denson Drive Opelika, 36801 Parent and Me Tumbling: Parents must participate in helping child. Max of 5 per class; ages 2-3yrs Tumble Tots: 4yrs Level 1 Tumbling: Learn basic tumbling skills and improve balance & coordination. 5yrs and up Level 2 Tumbling: Handstand forward roll, roundoff and power hurdle roundoff required. Must have coach’s recommendation. Level 3 Tumbling: Roundoff backhandspring on the floor and series backhandsprings on the tumble track required. Cheer Prep Tumbling: For middle school & high schoolers wanting to learn backhandsprings & other higher level skills. 334-705-5547

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Premier Spirit Academy

923 B Stage Road Auburn, 36830 Preschool classes, Intermediate Tumbling, Advanced Tumbling, Future Flyer Class, Tumbling for Fitness, Cheer Basic. 334-821-7300

www.premierspiritacademy.com

3732 Pepperell Parkway Opelika, 36801 Our gymnastics and cheer programs are in 25000 square foot facility with state of the art mats, floors, foam pits, and more. 334-759-7030

www.xtremeathleticsauburn.com

Homeschool Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 17

425 Perry Street Auburn, 36830 Art for Homeschoolers: These classes, under the sponsorship and support of the Auburn Arts Association, are divided into two age groups to allow for age appropriate art experiences. Fees cover instruction and all supplies and materials. Please register in advance of the first day of classes. Group 1 | Art Explorers: Join us in learning about artists and art techniques as you explore a variety of art media and develop your own artistic style. Classes are organized around themes that highlight the basic elements of art. In the past, some of these themes have been, “Fins and Feathers,” “Patterns in Art” and “Art from Odds and Ends.” Group 2 | Art Adventures: This class is designed for the young artist ready to meet art challenges at the intermediate level. Come have fun with photography and explore the core principles involved in capturing a creative photo. Nature’s Explorer Homeschool Fall Session: This environmental education program, designed for home-schooling families offers a unique educational experience for home-schooled students and their parents. Classes meet the 2nd Monday of the month (Sept- Nov). This hour and a half class incorporates hands-on science with nature and environmental awareness. A nature hike will be part of each class. Students will learn about a different topic each class of the 3-month session. Topics include: Alabama Wildflowers, Bird Beaks, Feet and Tweets, Incredible Invertebrates. Family membership to the Kreher Preserve at Magnolia level ($35) or above is required for registration. Registration is available on-line at www. auburn.edu/preserve starting 8/1/2018. Registration is required. The sessions will consist of approximately a 45-minute lesson and a 45 minute hike. Youth Fitness/Homeschool PE: Build your child’s confidence through activity and education. Certified Personal Trainer, Megan Meisner, provides individual or group classes that cover the importance of exercise, nutrition and a positive outlook for youth. Class will include age-appropriate exercises that use body weight, resistance bands, stability balls and more. Each session will end with a 10-15 minute lesson and goal setting. 334-501-2390

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Horse Riding

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Silver Lining Equestrian Center

334-703-0870

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5067 Birmingham Hwy Auburn, 36830 Specializing in Eventing and Hunter/Jumpers, we offer lessons to a wide range of ages and abilities, training rides, exercise rides, transportation and coaching at shows, superior horse care, and a fun and educational family environment for riders and their horses to enjoy

www.silverliningequestriancenter.com

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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H & G Horse Quarters

943 Lee Road 57 Auburn, 36830 Our lesson program consists of competitive riders, beginner children and adults, and a strong college group. We regularly compete at one day local shows and weekend rated shows. We also have monthly sanctioned horse shows at H&G. Three arenas, complete with jumps, lights, sprinklers, and other appropriate teaching materials provide the excellent environment necessary for quality instruction. 334-887-0026

www.hghorsequarters.com

Martial Arts Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 17

425 Perry Street Auburn, 36830 Yoshukai Karate – Beginner Children’s Class: Karate is a martial art that emphasizes self-confidence, self-discipline, respect, and physical fitness. This class teaches basic strikes, blocks, and kicks. Tournament sparring and self-defense fighting are in a controlled environment. Yoshukai Karate – Advanced Children’s Class: Karate is a martial art that emphasizes self-confidence, self-discipline, respect, and physical fitness. This class teaches basic strikes, blocks, and kicks. As studentsprogress, we teach advanced strikes, blocks, kicks, self-defense, and traditional weapons use. Tournament sparring and self-defense fighting are in a controlled environment. Yoshukai Karate – Teens/Adults: Karate is a martial art that emphasizes self-confidence, self-discipline, respect, and physical fitness. This class teaches basic strikes, blocks, and kicks. As studentsprogress, we teach advanced strikes, blocks, kicks, self-defense, and traditional weapons use. Tournament sparring and self-defense fighting are in a controlled environment. 334-501-2930

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

World Championship Taekwondo

334.705.8655

ad on page 37

2701 Fredrick Road, Suite 308 Opelika, 36801 Prepare Your Child for Success in the Classroom! A koren form of martial arts that focuses on discipline, concentration, respect, balance and coordination. Students should expect to have fun while learning basic kicking and punching techniques, as well as, self-defense.

www.bracesbyallen.com

334-737-5617 wctauburn@gmail.com www.martialartsauburn.com

Auburn Academy of Martial Arts

323 Airport Road Auburn, 36830 Kinder Kick, Beginner, Advanced, Adults, and Homeschoolers. Fitness classes and Kettle Bell. No registration or membership fees. Ask about our family member discounts. 334-502-7221

www.auburnacademy.com

Auburn Jiu Jitsu

758 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 Brazilian/Gracie jiu-jitsu is a martial art and combat sport which focuses on grappling or ground-fighting. It has been proven the most effective form of martial art for self-defense. 334-329-5218

www.auburnjiujitsu.com

Auburn Mixed Martial Arts

2515 East Glenn Ave Auburn, 36830 We pride ourselves in teaching realistic, but safe, fighting techniques in the martial arts of: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Judo, Kickboxing and Submission Grappling. We also teach classes in Fitness Kickboxing and Kettle Bell. For our Kids, we offer classes in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu/Judo and Wrestling. 334-887-0818

www.auburnmma.com

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

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Kid Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road Opelika, 36801 Karate: Begin as a new student or advance your martial arts skills in traditional Japanese Karate style taught by certified Black Belt level instructors. Traits of self-discipline, self-control and respect for self and others are woven into each Japanese International Karate Center (JIKC) training session. 334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Premier Spirit Academy

923 B Stage Road Auburn, 36830 Ninja Academy: Young Ninja’s learn flexibility, strength, tumbling, and obstacle maneuvers. Our hour long class is perfect for highly active boys and girls who are looking for a fun recreational activity where they can learn true ninja style movements and techniques; within the confines of a safe and controlled environment. 334-821-7300

www.premierspiritacademy.com

Music Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 17

425 Perry Street Auburn, 36830 Joy’s Music Studio: Piano Lessons: Joy’s music studio offers private/group lessons for children and adults. The piano sessions are primarily designed for beginners with a focus on keyboard familiarity, basic skills, music reading and repertoire. Joy’s Music Studio: Voice Lessons: Joy’s music studio offers private/group lessons for children and adults. The lessons focus on proper vocal techniques such as breathing and breath management, diction and artistic interpretation. Mommy and Me: Music Class: Be ready to sing, dance, play instruments, move around and have fun! This interactive class for babies and young children uses the research-based “The Music Class” (Music Pups) curriculum. We use a large variety of musical rhymes and styles to create a fun experience while unleashing the musical potential of young children. 334-501-2930

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Kindermusik at AUMC

137 South Gay Street Auburn, 36830 Music-and-movement classes; children experience music of varying styles, genres, and cultures. They interact with other children and engage in movement, rhythm, and vocal activities that develop far more than just music skills. 334-826-8800

michelles@aumc.net

www.aumc.net

Spicer’s Music

2140 East University Drive Auburn, 36830 We offer lessons on an incredible variety of instruments, including but not limited to: guitar, bass guitar, upright bass, keyboard/piano, voice, harp, drums, ukulele, banjo, fiddle, violin, cello, harmonica, tin whistle, oboe, didgeridoo, mandolin, dulcimer, clarinet, saxophone, flute, trumpet, and french horn. 334-329-PLAY

www.spicersmusic.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

Play and Fun

upcoming birthday parties! Private themed party space for parties, groups, reunions, and more.

Krehler Preserve and Nature Center

Good Times

ad on page 5

2222 North College Street Auburn, 36830 The mission is to provide programs, experiences, nature trails and natural habitats for education, study and relaxation for students and citizens of all ages while creating an atmosphere of discovery and stewardship toward our natural world. Offering programs for all ages: discovery hikes, nature walks, school programming, youth camps and workshops. AUsome Amphibians and Reptiles: Join the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center staff for a onehour presentation on the AUsome amphibians and reptiles found in our state and beyond. Children and adults will enjoy this entertaining hands-on program with live animals. Admission is $5/person. Children 3 and under are free. Pre-registration is not required. Proceeds benefit the nature center. Sponsored by Auburn Opelika Tourism Bureau Fall Forest Friends: This award-winning program is a unique educational experience for pre-school children and their parents that incorporates handson activities with nature and environmental awareness. This six-week session begins Tuesday, 9/18 and Friday, 9/21 from 9:30 - 11 a.m. Session fee is $45 per child. Topics include: Beautiful Butterflies; Icky Sticky Worm; Spotty Salamanders; 123, What do I see?; Hairy Scaly , Squishy; Wesley, the Amazing Alligator. Membership with the Kreher Preserve at the Magnolia level ($35) or above is required. Halloween Enchanted Forest: October 25 and 26. Non-scary, educational and fun evening to wear costumes. Join us for a night hike through the forest with characters, fortune tellers, pumpkin bowling, s’mores, face painting and more!” 334-502-4553

www.auburn.edu/preserve

Auburn Escape Zones

1234 Commerce Drive Auburn, 36830 Work together as a team to solve puzzles, uncover clues and unlock locks in order to solve the problem or “escape the room”. But your team must work quickly because you only have 60 minutes. Can you escape? 334-329-7088

www.auburnescapezones.com

Auburn Lanes

719 Opelika Road Auburn, 36830 Offers traditional bowling on 24 lanes in a recently renovated center that features new flooring, remodeled restrooms and 42-inch flat-screen monitors over the lanes. Challenge your friends to some arcade-style games and grab a bite to eat! 334-887-6573

334-737-5000

www.cyberzone334.com

750 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 Good Times Bowling is a great place to play. Bring your family, friends or co-workers and spend hours having the time of your life. Have fun bowling and then take a break and enjoy a wide choice of food from our menu. If arcade games are not enough of a challenge, you can enter one of our Escape Rooms and hope that you will find yourself free within the allotted time. Bowing lanes, 30+ Arcade Games, 2 Escape Rooms and 2 Party Rooms 334-

539-3131

www.goodtimesbowling.com

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art

901 South College Street Auburn, 36830 Educational programming which strives to meet the needs for our community through diverse offerings. Programs enhance and expand the educational experience of our exhibitions. Programs include Art Clubs, Tours, Exhibits, Talks, Films and Jazz, and more! 334-844-1484

www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Surge Trampoline Park

2506 Pepperell Parkway Opelika, 36801 A cutting-edge entertainment, fitness and sports facility unlikne anything you have ever experienced. We have created a venue for active social outings, intense workouts, and awesome birthday partie 334-737-5599

www.surgeopelika.com

Scouting Boy Scouts of America: Chattahoochee Council

1237 1st Avenue Columbus, 31901 Provides a program for young people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness. 706-327-2634

www.chattahoochee-bsa.org

Girl Scouts of Southen Alabama

145 Coliseum Blvd Montgomery , 36109 Daisies, Brownies and Girl Scouts. Girls discover who they are, where their talents lie, and what they care the most about. And they take action to change the world. Through our program, the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, girls develop a strong sense of self, display positive values, and seek challenges. 334-272-9164

www.girlscoutssa.org

www.amf.com/auburnlanesal

CyberZone

107 North 9th Street Opelika, 36801 Interactive Entertainment Center in Downtown Opelika featuring one of the largest arcades in Alabama. Extreme 36-player laser tag, Atomic Rush, Replay Zone with retro arcades and pinball, multiple private party areas, awesome pizza with an expanding lunch & menu, and more. Perfect for family fun, date night, birthday parties, celebrations, and group and corporate events of all sizes. Check our website for updated specials, and to book your

Shopping Fringe Kids & Fring Consignment

125 South 8th Street Opelika, 36801 Back-to-School Shopping? Start at Fringe Kids! We carry infant through children’s size 14/16. Popular brands, as well as boutique and designer brands. Now accepting fall and winter consignment. Also, teen shopping just across the street! 334-745-4497

www.fringeofopelika.com

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Fun & Fancy

1345 Opelika Road, Suite D Opelika, 36801 Your one stop shop in the Auburn Opelika area. We can help you with gift, clothing & shoe needs from baby to child and beyond. 334-745-2237 www.facebook.com/funandfancystore

Kids Clothes Connection

804 Columbus Parkway Opelika, 36801 Auburn and Opelika’s largest children’s and furniture consignment event. Fall/ Winter sale dates: September. Open to the public. New and gently used baby, children, teen and maternity clothing. backpacks, sports gear, dance apparel and much more! 334-524-0606 www.kidsclothesconnection.com

Sports Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 17

425 Perry Road Auburn, 36830 Cheerleading: Girls will be instructed by staff in basic cheerleading skills and placed on squads to cheer for the Auburn Youth Football Association football games. Squads will practice once a week and cheer at one game each week. Auburn Youth Tackle Football: Join this full contact tackle sport. Players must provide their own equipment, which must meet NOCSAE standards. Skills test dates will be given out at registration. Flag Football: A modified version of football; the league will play once a week and practice a maximum of twice a week. Academy of Starz Basketball Training: Fundamental to Elite basketball training by teaching, reading and reacting principles. Excel in defense, shooting, dribbling, jumping and more. Baller, Inc. Training: Basketball training and development. Baller, Inc. Training is individualized and breaks down your child’s strengths, as well as, identifies the areas needing improvement. “LovHandlez” Basketball Training Classes: “LovHandlez” is an organization created to develop athletes in the game of basketball. We teach the importance of being able to control the basketball and having a consistent shot. We work on individual skill to ensure athletes lack nothing from the sport they love. Youth Community Basketball League: Youth basketball is for young people from ages 9-17 who want to keep their skills sharpe for school ball, travel ball, or just for good fun to keep in shape. Great games with a 6 game season and playoff system with referee. Youth Free-Play Basketball: Looking for a place for children to get in some FUN exercise? How about basketball?!? Children, grab your friends and join us at the Dean Road Recreation Center gym. Now, you have a place to improve your game or join in a pick-up game with your peers for a little competition. Children MUST be accompanied by an adult (age 19 & older) during participation. Fall Baseball – Youth: This fall baseball league is the time to work on specific baseball fundamentals or a new position. No scoreboard, no all-stars, no tryouts. Registration is limited to the first 66 players in each age group. The 6-7 year old league must have at least 40 players to make league.

Fall Instructional Camp-Baseball: This instructional session is for players and coaches to improve the fundamental knowledge and skills of baseball through extensive training by qualified baseball professionals. Mark Fuller and the Sports Academy Staff, in conjunction with Auburn Parks and Recreation, will oversee the instructional sessions, including the training of the coaches. Girls Fall Softball: A fun league. No All Stars and no league standings. Ideal for players moving up to obtain experience for spring. Season will focus on fundamentals. We must have 44 participants in each age group to make a league. Tots Tennis and Fitness: An introduction to tennis for young children. This clinic will provide various tennis and movement activities that will focus on eye-hand and eye-foot coordination. Each child will improve on their motor skills through fun tennis drills and fitness drills. Munchkins Tennis: Open clinic for young children that are ready to learn the game of tennis. This clinic will focus on learning tennis skills that are needed to play the game of tennis. Drills will consist of various tennis skills and movement activities. These drills will focus on basic tennis skills such as the forehand, backhand, and volley strokes. Half Volleys Tennis: Open clinic for young children that are ready to learn the game of tennis and an introduction to competitive point play. This clinic will focus on learning the tennis skills that are needed for point play. Drills will consist of learning different strokes that will allow them to rally a red ball and then be able to play points. Also, movement skills will be on going so that each participant will be able to adjust (move) to the bounce of the ball while playing points. Junior Team Tennis: Boys and girls, ages 7 to 18, to play singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. Junior Team Tennis is a competitive, level based environment that provides individual growth, social growth, and life skills. Master Tennis: This clinic will introduce young players to the yellow balls and will focus on learning and improving on the basic tennis skills (forehand, backhand, volleys, & serve), court positions, tennis strategies (singles and doubles), and keeping score. This clinic will improve consistency and directional rallying (hitting the balls cross court, down the line, and keeping the ball in play longer).

This young tennis player will have opportunities to play organized events. Youth Recreational Soccer Leagues: Auburn Soccer Association’s Youth Recreational Leagues are designed to teach the basic skills of soccer and foster a love of the game within a format of fun. We employ small sided & full field games in order to promote player development within a child-safe environment. Youth and High School Lacrosse League: Auburn Youth Lacrosse Club offers its Youth and High School Fall season designed to learn and master the basic skills of lacrosse and practice fundamentals in order to properly learn the game and for players to be prepared for the Spring season. Boys and Girls practice and play games separately. Players will be grouped by age.

334-501-2930 hmanning@auburnalabama.org www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Auburn Fencing

229 S 8th Street Opelika, 36801 Super Youth Program: The youth class focuses on the development of common skills required for any sport, with the added teaching of fencing basics. The class will play a wide variety of games which will require them to improve coordination and strength while developing critical thinking as well. Beginner/Intermediate/Competitive Youth: This class includes the training and development of young aspiring fencing from beginner level through advanced and competitive students that will flourish in the world fencing community. We play games and have a lot of fun in the class but the primary focus is to train fencers. We train discipline/dedication, competitiveness and good sportsmanship. 334-203-1989

ww.auburnfencing.com

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road Opelika, 36801 Totally Sports: Sports, sports and more sports! Come enjoy flag football, basketball and more! 334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Sports Academy

3765 Pepperell Parkway Opelika, 36801 Fall Instructional Baseball League: A two week training session to prepare players for the normal fall parks and recreation league. 334-749-4040

www.sportsacademyauburn.com AOP

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

How to Repair a Broken Relationship With Your Teen How’s your relationship with your teen? Do feel there is a distance between you and your child, and the space is only increasing everyday? Has your once happy relationship with your kid turned into open animosity with your teen? Maybe it feels like your sweet baby went upstairs one day, and came down a totally different person – someone who seems like a total stranger to you? You’re not alone. I get calls every day from parents just like you who say, “My relationship with my teen is disintegrating before my eyes. What can I do?” If that sounds like a call you could make right now, let me share some ways you can start mending your relationship before it is destroyed altogether. Consider implementing some of these relationship repairs:

Take Stock of the Relationship

Like going into your closet and getting rid of all the clothes that don’t fit us anymore or have simply gone out of style, we need to go into our parenting closet and take inventory. This requires an honest evaluation of the actions, beliefs, styles, and habits in our home and a willingness to toss out everything that doesn’t belong or doesn’t work. What are some areas that you can change and adapt as a parent? How can you accommodate the growing needs of your teenager? How can you grow alongside them as they learn to navigate the world? Like reaching back into the closet and taking out those corduroy bell-bottoms you haven’t worn since high school, take regular time to examine the ways you are connecting to your teen. See what is out of style, what needs to change and what keeps you stuck in the past. I realize that these are tough words to handle. It’s not easy to hear that maybe something we are doing as parents is hurting our kids. But we can all readily admit that we don’t have the parenting gig down pat. There’s always room for growth as moms and dads.

Start Asking Questions

Want to get your relationship with your teen back on track? Start asking the right kind of questions. Ask the kinds of questions that make them think about things, not just “yes” or Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

“no” questions. Find out what they think, how they would do something, where they would go, and why. When a discussion leads to surprising expressions of wisdom from your teen, take advantage of the moment to reinforce their insights. Talk about controversial subjects as you would with a friend or co-worker for whom you have great respect. Never belittle their opinions about things. After all, did you know everything when you were a teen? Then, ask some more personal questions. “What could I do to improve our relationship?” or “What things would you like to see change in our family?” Let me warn you–if you ask these types of questions, you may not like what you hear. But don’t run from the answers. Hearing honest feedback from your child may open your eyes to areas that need to change. You’ll also be communicating to your child that you desire to do everything you can to restore and maintain a loving relationship.

Take Ownership for Mistakes

The statement “I was wrong” (when said by a parent) can do wonders for a broken relationship. If you handled a situation poorly, admit where you made a mistake. Never will your child respect you more than when you admit your faults and ask for forgiveness. Humble parents who admit their mistakes and apologize are building healthy, happy families.

Create the Proper Environment

Don’t let your family get emotionally stuck in the mistakes and tension of the past. Create an environment that welcomes and invites change. If you feel like it’s time to make some positive shifts in your family, sit everyone down and tell them, “We need to make some changes around here–me included. It’s not going to be the same-old, same-old. Let’s work together as a family to move forward.” I’ve spoken on this topic at seminars a few times. And afterwards, I always have parents and teens come up to me and say, “Thank you! We decided as a family that we needed to change, and it was one of the best decisions we made. Our kids are happier, and we feel happier as parents!” 44

Act On It

Once you decide to make some changes towards restoring broken relationships, it’s time to act! Maybe you’ve realized that as a mom or dad you have been too overprotective in certain areas. Apologize to your kids and show them that you are working on changing and releasing some control. Perhaps you’ve seen that much of your conversation with your children comes off as judgmental. Express to your family your desire to change, and work towards infusing your conversations with grace. Or maybe you’ve realized that you just haven’t spent the time you need with your teen. Drop that weekend golf game, or forgo that daily run, in order to spend time with your teen. Those visible actions convey your willingness to work towards a better relationship.

Stay With the Plan

We don’t wake up one day with the perfect marriage, perfect kids, or perfect home. Those relationships take time and effort. So if your connection with your teen is in trouble, and you are working towards making positive changes, don’t give up! Stay with the plan. In difficult transitions, your teen may push back. They may dig in their heels as you try to rebuild the relationship. But keep the mindset and attitude that says, “We’re not going backward, only forward.” Even if you get nothing but grief from your teen at first, keep up your weekly time together, week after week. Eventually they’ll come around. Remember, relationships thrive when unconditional love is delivered across a bridge of friendship that never stops — even if your teen doesn’t respond. He or she may secretly be testing your commitment! I want to challenge you today to commit to rebuilding a relationship with your child, and that starts with good communications. No matter how strained or difficult your relationship might be, there is always hope. It may take time and persistence, but keep at it.

Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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FamilyCalendar Monday, July 23 Summer Code Club Cooper Library, Opelika. Ages 10 and up. Join us every Monday this summer for coding. Even if you’ve been in the program, we will have a new experience for you! Bring a laptop if you have one, but it is not required. library@opelika-al.gov Mondays with MyGym Auburn Public Library. 10:30-11:30 AM. Children ages 2.5 - 5 and their caregivers are invited to get in motion at this special program. Jump, spin, and roll at this exercise class! www.auburnalabama.org/library. Monday Movies: “Coco” Auburn Public Library. 2:00 & 6:00 PM. Cool off at the library this summer with an air conditioned movie! Join us each Monday in June and July for TWO showings of some great movies. Popcorn and water provided! This program is free and open to the public! www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Tuesday, July 24 Libraries Rock: Music Industry Part 2 Opelika Public Library. 6th grade and up. Learn the art of beatboxing, create your own guitar pick, learn about the music recording industry, see a working studio, learn scratching from a DJ, use a turntable to create spin art, learn about the music recording process and learn about the music business. Free. Contact: library@opelika-al.gov. Kids Art Class: Claude Monet July 24-26. J & M Bookstore, College Street. This week, we will be creating a series of acrylic paintings in the style of Monet. All materials will be provided for painting this week. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting messy and bring a snack! www.jmbooks.com. Try-It Tuesdays Each Tuesday from 6 – 8 p.m., Active Auburn and Auburn Parks and Recreation will host clinics for different sports and activities in one of our facilities or parks. Clinics are FREE and open to members of the public. (334) 501-2948 • activeauburn@ auburnalabama.org. O Grows Farmers Market The O Grows Farmers Market will be held every Tuesday from 3-6 PM at 1103 Glenn St. in Opelika. www.facebook.com/opelikagrows. Baby Time Auburn Public Library. Babies and their favorite adults enjoy 20 minutes of stories, songs, bounces, and tickles during Baby Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! Ages birth - 24 months. 9:30-10:00 a.m., 10:00-10:30 a.m. or 1:00-1:30 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Wednesday, July 25 Libraries Rock: Talent Show! Opelika Public Library. Children (K-5th grade) Event Series. A wide variety of engaging events. www.cooperlibrary.com.

scavenger hunt! Resident Fee: $10, Non- Resident Fee: $11 Registration.1:00-4:00 p.m. PLipscomb@opelika-al.gov Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. Toddlers and their favorite adults enjoy 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs, movement rhymes, and a fun craft during Toddler Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! Ages 18 months-3 years. 9:30-10:00 a.m. or 10:30-11:00 a.m. or 1:00-1:30 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Thursday, July 26 Bluebirds and Butterflies at FDR State Park, Ga. 9:30 AM. Help us monitor our bluebird nest boxes and check on our butterfly garden. There is a short walk to five bluebird boxes and our demonstration pollinator garden. We will talk briefly on what it takes to attract both bluebirds and butterflies to your yard. Meet at the Park Office. Bug Out Crafts at FDR State Park, Ga. 5:00 PM. Learn about local insects as you create two original craft projects. Turn “tree cookies” and other natural materials into beetles, butterflies, dragonflies and more. Correct change or pay in advance at office and bring receipt. $4 plus $5 parking. Meet next to fishing dock. Cancelled if rain. The Market at Ag Heritage Park Auburn. 3:00-6:00 PM. The Market is an open-air, growers-only farmers market that operates each Thursday, May-August, at Ag Heritage Park on the Auburn University campus. Hosted by the College of Agriculture, The Market features area vendors offering fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, herbs, ornamental plants and cut flowers as well as locally produced jams and jellies, baked goods, soaps, honey, goat cheese and more. Rain or shine, unless severe weather poses a danger to vendors and customers. Gamers Society Auburn Public Library. The Programming Room will be open every Thursday, 4:00-5:00 p.m. for Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokemon, and video games Gamers must bring their own materials The Auburn Public Library will provide materials for video game play. Games must be rated E, E10, or T; no rated M games. Ages 10-18 years. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Hometown Heroes: Special Guest Auburn Public Library. Come learn about the various tasks that must be completed, the fun machines needed, and the great people who work to make our community a great place to live! Join us each Thursday in June and July at 2 p.m. to celebrate our Hometown Heroes! 2:00 PM. www.auburnalabama. org/library. Preschool Time Preschoolers and their favorite adults enjoy 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs, movement rhymes, and a fun craft during Preschool Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! 3 – 5 years. 9:30-10:00 a.m., 10:30-11:00 a.m. or 1:00-1:30 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Adventure Day Covington Rec Center. Spend your afternoon on a

Brick Builders Opelika Public Library, Opelika. 3:30 PM. All ages. If you love creating with Lego bricks, then this is the place to be! Open to all ages, but geared towards school-aged children, your creativity will take the spotlight as you build whatever you can imagine. Lego bricks provided. library@opelika-al.gov

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

Crafting Power Hour Columbus Museum. 5:30 PM. Each Power Hour will allow you to get hands-on with a variety of materials and create a finished work of art to take home. All materials are provided, and participants will be able to take their creations home with them after each Power Hour. Space is limited and registration is required. www.columbusmuseum.com.

Friday, July 27 Summer Sip Series: Paper Marbling Workshop Participants 21+ will learn techniques of ‘western’ paper marbling using non-toxic materials. This unique process can be incorporated into clothing design, painting, and printmaking. Materials are provided, but BYOB! Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Participants must provide a valid ID to confirm age when the class meets. $25. ccleckler@auburnalabama.org. Back to School Bash Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Free. Come enjoy a last day of summer with food and fun! Map & Compass 101 FDR State Park, Ga. 10 AM. Learn the basics of map reading and compass skills as you participate in group activities and games. Geared towards ages 8 to adult. Correct change or pay in advance at office and bring receipt. $4 plus $5 parking. Meet at the large stone picnic shelter at the end of the pool parking lot. Fantastic Fridays: Creek and Cherokee in Georgia Columbus Museum. 10:30 AM - 12 noon. Storyteller Natalie Jones returns to regale our audience with factual stories about life in Georgia, the Trail of Tears, and Native folktales from each tribe. www.columbusmuseum.com. Friday On the Green: TBA Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. It’s the best way in the world to unwind after a busy week. We love it that folks bring the kids and watch them swing or play corn hole, draw on the sidewalks, and just run around. We love that folks bring their pups on a leash. It is one of the best free summertime events around. So grab your cooler and come listen to some great music and have a great time! www.russellcrossroads.com. Summer Reading Story Time Cooper Library, Opelika. Weekly story time for the whole family will happen every Friday at 10 a.m. We will simultaneously host three story times: Ages birth5th grade. graders will each get their own interactive and playful dose of storytelling. library@opelika-al.gov. Friday Night Splash Join the Aquatics Staff for Friday Night Splash! Enjoy music, a cookout, games and fun at the pool! FREE admission with Splash Pass or prior admission to the pool earlier that day (please get a hand stamp before leaving) or $2 per person. Checks payable to COA. (334) 501 – 2957 • auburnalabama.org/pools.

Saturday, July 28 Target Archery at FDR State Park, Ga. 9:00 AM. This stationary target shooting adventure is for ages 10 to adult. We provide basic instruction equipment and unique shooting opportunities. Not geared towards large groups. Groups can contact us for a special time. $12 plus $5 parking; pay and pre-register at Park Office. Meets across the street from the Park Office. Auburn Wing Fest 2-10 PM. Greystone Mansion, Auburn. Featuring the area’s restaurants with the best wings, along with live

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FamilyCalendar entertainment, bar service, games, giveaways and other vendors. Ticket includes admission, 6 free wing vouchers to sample, a voting token to chose best wings of Auburn, and Live Entertainment. Additional Wing Vouchers available for $1 (5-Packs). Tickets $20 adults, $10 youth (10-16yrs) and children 9 and under are free. www.thegreystonemansion.com. Libraries Rock: Talent Show Opelika Public Library. Children (K-5th grade) Event Series. Visit www.cooperlibrary.com for more information on each event. Free. Young Eagles Day Columbus Airport, 3250 W. Britt David Road, Columbus, G. 8:30-11:30 AM (weather permitting). All kids ages 8-17 are invited to take a Free airplane ride over Columbus! Most flights last 20 minutes. The goal is to provide a fun and educational aviation experience. 706-324-2453. Saturday STEM Storytime Auburn Public Library. Preschoolers–2nd grade children and their caregivers are invited to join us for a storytime on Saturday mornings that is all about STEM. 10:00-11:00 a.m. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math This storytime will focus on these concepts in a fun, interactive, storydriven format Please note: Some activities may involve messy fun! (334) 501-3296.

Columbus Kids Market August 1 - 4. Central Baptist Church, Columbus. www.columbuskidsmarket.com.

Thursday, August 2 Bug Out Crafts at FDR State Park, Ga. See July 26 for details. The Market at Ag Heritage Park See July 26 for details. Summer Code Club See July 23 for details.

Target Archery at FDR State Park, Ga. See July 28 for details.

Summer Code Club See July 23 for details.

Saturday, August 4

Mondays with MyGym See July 23 for details.

Sportsplex Kids Triathlon & Small Fry Tri Opelika Sportsplex. Ages 6-15. Each participant will receive a t-shirt and medal. No same day registration. Begins at 6:00 AM. www.sportsplextriforkids.com.

Try-It Tuesdays See July 24 for details. O Grows Farmers Market See July 24 for details. Summer Swing: Back to School Bash See July 24 for details. Kids Art Class ‘Wassliy Kandinsky’ July 31-Aug. 2. J & M Bookstore, Auburn. www. jmbooks.com. Music is our theme this week! All materials will be provided for painting this week. Wear clothes you don’t mind getting messy and bring a snack! Baby Time See July 24 for details.

Teddy Bear Clinic at Montgomery Zoo 10 AM – 2 PM. Let your stuffed friend be checked out by our vet staff, receive Band-Aids on any boo boos, repair any rips, and get an overall clear bill of health. Children 12 years old and younger and their stuffed animal (plush toy) receive FREE ADMISSION with a regular paying adult (one FREE child admission for every paying adult admission). www.montgomeryzoo. com.

Columbus Kids Market See August 1 for details.

Preschool Time See July 26 for details.

Columbus Kids Market See August 1 for details.

Monday Movies: “A Wrinkle in Time” See June 23 for details.

Volunteer Summer Serve Day at The Montgomery Zoo 9 AM-5 PM. The Zoo needs help with landscaping, trimming bushes, planting flowers, raking leaves, painting, and overall prepping for the Fall season. Volunteers ages 12-16 years old must be accompanied by a parent / legal guardian or a designated group chaperone. Volunteers under the age of 19 must obtain parent / legal guardian permission to volunteer. Everyone volunteer serving at least six (6) hours will receive morning beverages with snacks, lunch, and afternoon beverages with snacks. www.montgomeryzoo.com/volunteers.

Saturday STEM Storytime See July 28 for details.

Gamers Society See July 26 for details.

Monday, July 30

Toddler Time See July 25 for details.

Columbus Kids Market See August 1 for details.

Tuesday, July 31

AMC Summer Movie Camps: “The Nut Job 2” See July 25 for details.

Market Days on Broadway Columbus. 9:00 AM - noon. Takes place every Saturday morning, year-round in the 1000 & 1100 blocks of Broadway. You will find over 100 local vendors selling anything and everything that you can image. The Market features many local and organic farmers selling produce, along with soap vendors, home goods, jewelry vendors and baked goods.. Visit the Market Days on Broadway Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/ MarketDaysOnBroadway/

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Friday, August 3 Summer Movies On the Beach: “Sherlock Gnomes” See July 27 for details. Map & Compass 101 See July 27 for details. Friday On the Green: Jack Sterns See July 27 for details.

Small Fry Tri The children will bike, run and splash through the Splash Park! Special attention needs to be given as children get on and off tricycles. Older siblings can also help. This is NOT competitive. Every child receives a medal and a t-shirt. Paper registration deadline is 7/20/18. No registrations will be taken the day of the event. There will be two waves of the Small Fry. The first will begin around 10:00 a.m. and the second around 11 for those families who have children participating in the kids triathlon. www.sportsplextriforkids.com. End of Summer Movie Samford Pool, Auburn. 8:00 PM. www.auburnalabama.org/pools.

Sensory Friendly Saturday The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. 9:00 AM. The first Saturday of every month, the Museum will open at 9 AM for families with children on the autism spectrum or children with sensory processing disorders. Sensory modified setting, limited admission and sound and lighting adjustments. Admission will be $6 per person for non-members and free for members. www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org.

Sunday, August 5 Back-toSchool Pool Party Samford Pool, Auburn. 1-6 PM. Allday games, music and fun at the pool! There will be special concessions for sale and back-to-school giveaways all day at the pool, from backpacks to notebooks and more. Admission is $2 per person or FREE with Splash Pass. www.auburnalabama. org/pools.

Monday, August 6 AACT Open Auditions for “To Kill a Mockingbird” Auburn Area Community Theatre announces open auditions for our fall 2018 production of “To Kill a Mockingbird.” The cast requires a diverse group of 12 males, 8 females, including 3 children. Actors will have opportunities to read from the script, but may also perform a dramatic monologue if they have prepared one. This production contains racial and sexual content along with strong language. www.auburnalabama.org/ parks.

Tuesday, August 7 O Grows Farmers Market See July 24 for details.

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FamilyCalendar Baby Time See July 24 for details.

group meets at the Museum at 1 PM. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org.

AACT Open Auditions for “To Kill a Mockingbird” See August 6 for details.

Toddler Time See July 25 for details.

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

AACT Open Auditions for “To Kill a Mockingbird” See August 6 for details.

Saturday STEM Storytime See July 28 for details.

Thursday, August 9

Monday, August 13

The Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee A fun night that allows businesses and organizations to determine who has the best spellers in Lee County! 2 person teams compete in a speed spelling bee with word pronouncing by “Voice of the Auburn Tigers” Rod Bramblett. Cocktails and BBQ begins at 5 PM with the spelling beginning at 5:30. Contact Lee County Literacy Coalition at 334-705-0001 or email stacie@ leecountyliteracy.org to register a team. www.leecountyliteracy.org.

AACT Open Auditions for Fall Jr. Performers Show, “The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley, Jr.” Please come prepared with 30 seconds only of an acapella song. You can sign up for a time slot, or just show up. The sign-up sheet will be available at the front desk of the JDCAC on Friday, August 3. Short selections from the script will be available at that time as well. Lvm2245@gmail.com.

Nature Walk: Butterflies Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, Auburn. Join our guides for a peaceful morning walk as you take in the many sights and sounds of the preserve. Walks are offered the second Thursday of each month from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve.

Baby Time See July 24 for details.

Wednesday, August 8

The Market at Ag Heritage Park See July 26 for details. Summer Code Club See July 23 for details. Gamers Society See July 26 for details. Preschool Time See July 26 for details.

Friday, August 10 Summer Movies On the Beach: “Justice League” See July 27 for details. Friday On the Green: Kurt McKinney and Britt Johnson See July 27 for details.

Saturday, August 11 Target Archery at FDR State Park, Ga. See July 28 for details. Second Saturday at Pioneer Park Loachapoka. History re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum monthly in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts.—blacksmiths, spinners and weavers, gardeners. Crafts and seasonal activities are scheduled, and someone is always cooking up a meal in the fireplace or outdoors. The Whistle Stop Pickers dulcimer

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

Tuesday, August 14 AACT Open Auditions for Fall Jr. Performers Show, “The Musical Adventures of Flat Stanley, Jr.” See August 13 for details. O Grows Farmers Market See July 24 for details.

Family Discovery Hikes: Butterflies Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, Auburn. We will enjoy a hike looking for bluebirds and their habitats! Discovery Hikes are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 PM for families with children ages 5 to 12. Meet at the pavilion. Guided tours are free. Donations are welcomed. Cancelled in the event of rain. www.auburn.edu/preserve. Look @ Lunchtime Columbus Museum. 12:15-12:30 PM. A collaborative viewing exercise and dialogue centered on works of art from the Museum’s permanent collection. Jonathan Frederick Walz, Director of Curatorial Affairs & Curator of American Art, facilitates LOOK! discussions every second Tuesday to explore a new object each month. www.columbusmuseum.com.

Wednesday, August 15 Toddler Time See July 25 for details.

Thursday, August 16 Home Sweet Auburn Auburn University Student Center Green Space. 4:006:00 PM. An opportunity for member restaurants to showcase their offerings. The outdoor tasting event is held on the lawn of the Student Center and incoming freshman and their

parents are invited to enjoy samples at each vendor. Stephanie Calhoun at (334) 887-7011 or stephanie@ auburnchamber.com. Auburn/Opelika MOPS & MOMsnext Open House Meet and greet so you can learn more about our group and childcare before our first regular meeting of the year. We’ll have coffee and donuts. Drop in between 9:30 and 11:00 at Trinity United Methodist Church. https://www.facebook.com/AuburnOpelikaMOPS/ Summer Concert Series: Fort Benning Maneuver Center of Excellence Jazz Band Columbus Museum. 6:00 PM. Throughout the summer, the arts collide with music provided by local and regional bands and free guided tours of the Museum’s collection provided by staff and docents. Bring a picnic dinner or purchase one from one of our featured food trucks. www.columbusmuseum.com. The Market at Ag Heritage Park See July 26 for details. Summer Code Club See July 23 for details. Gamers Society See July 26 for details. Preschool Time See July 26 for details.

Friday, August 17 Buckmasters Expo Renaissance Hotel & Convention Center, Montgomery. A hunting show featuring more than 300 exhibitors, Buckmasters Top Bow Indoor Championship, Young Bucks activities, deer scoring, hunter education courses, Dock Dogs, Saturday night concert and more. Fri., 3-9 PM; Sat. 9 AM - 7 PM; Sun. 10 AM - 5 PM. www.buckmasters.com. Summer Movies On the Beach: “Peter Rabbit” See July 27 for details. KC and the Sunshine Band Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org. Friday On the Green: Matt Smith See July 27 for details.

Saturday, August 18 Mark Farner’s American Band Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org.

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Sensory-Friendly Story Time Opelika Public Library. Sensory-Friendly Storytime engages participants using story, music and movement. Programs offer educational, literacy and social opportunities for children of all ages with differing abilities, their siblings, parents/caregivers and their typically developing peers. FREE. 9:30 a.m. library@opelika-al.gov. Super Saturdays at LaGrange Art Museum 112 Lafayette Pkwy, LaGrange, Ga. 1:00-4:00 PM. Free family art day! Spend the afternoon at the Museum. Families, neighbors, and friends can tour the current exhibit and explore an art activity. www.lagrangeartmuseum.org.

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Gamers Society See July 26 for details.

Buckmasters Expo See August 17 for details.

Montgomery Dragon Boat Race & Festival Riverfront, Montgomery. Race Day starts just after sunrise with the 3- and 6-mile StandUp Paddleboard races, followed by the Dragon heats. Team awards and the best-dressed drummer pageant take place midday in-between sets of live music. Racing resumes after the lunch break with the semifinals and concludes late-afternoon. www. montgomerydragonboat.org/

Preschool Time See July 26 for details.

Sunday, August 19 Buckmasters Expo See August 17 for details.

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Tuesday, August 21 O Grows Farmers Market See July 24 for details. Baby Time See July 24 for details.

Wednesday, August 22 6th Annual Sustainability Picnic Arboretum, Auburn. Come learn more about sustainability, while enjoying live music, fun, games, and door prizes! The food is free and vegetarianfriendly! 334.844.5770. Toddler Time See July 25 for details.

Thursday, August 23 The Market at Ag Heritage Park See July 26 for details. Summer Code Club See July 23 for details. Gamers Society See July 26 for details. Preschool Time See July 26 for details.

Friday, August 24 The Great Affairs Eighth & Rail, Opelika. Concert event. 9 PM. www.bandsintown.com. Summer Movies On the Beach: “Pirates of the Caribbean, Dead Men Tell No Tales” See July 27 for details. Sips Under the Sea: Tailgate Party The Georgia Aquarium. Ice cold beer, delicious tailgate food and your favorite game day playlist! Whether you buzz for the Jackets, howl with the Dawgs or support another team, come celebrate this football season with your friends at Georgia Aquarium! Friday On the Green: Kendall Street Company See July 27 for details.

Teen Yarn Sculpture Workshop Columbus Museum. 2:00 PM. Discover the process of creating yarn sculptures in this teens-only workshop! Participants will draw inspiration from the knitted sculptures of artist Nathan Vincent on display in the Museum’s Galleria, and then will create their own largescale yarn sculptures in the Studio. Register by August 17. www.columbusmuseum.com.

Friday, August 31 Jake Owen’s “Life’s Whatcha Make It Tour 2018” Riverwalk Stadium, Montgomery. With Special Guest Chris Janson & Rising Star Jordan Davis. Tickets range in price from $34.50 to VIP tickets for $247.50. You can purchase your tickets at biscuitsbaseball.com, calling 334-323-2255 or in person at the Riverwalk Stadium Box Office. 334-323-2255. www.milb.com/ biscuits. Pre-Labor Day Blues Show Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org. Lynyrd Skynyrd: Last of the Street Survivors Farewell Tour Oak Mountain Amp. www.ticketmaster.com. Summer Movies On the Beach: “A Wrinkle in Time” See July 27 for details.

Young Eagles Day See July 28 for details.

Friday On the Green: The Bank Walkers See July 27 for details.

Saturday STEM Storytime See July 28 for details.

Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival August 31 - Sept. 2. Labor Day Weekend. Callaway Gardens, Ga. See hot air balloons soar, or take a tethered ride yourself in our picture-perfect farewell to Summer. Highlights include: Tethered balloon rides, nighttime balloon glows, live music and performances all weekend, food and drink specials, Kids Zone, beach activities, classic car show, disc dog demonstrations and more!

Sunday, August 26 Author Talk and Book Signing: Becky Albertalli Auburn Public Library. 3:00 PM. Join us for a conversation with Becky Albertalli, award-winning author of “Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda”, now the major motion picture “Love, Simon”. Books will be available for purchase by the Auburn University Bookstore, and the author will be available to sign books.

Tuesday, August 28 O Grows Farmers Market See July 24 for details. Baby Time See July 24 for details.

Wednesday, August 29 Toddler Time See July 25 for details.

Thursday, August 30 Auburn/Opelika MOPS & MOMSnext A community for moms with kids ages 0-15. Meet us at George’s Farmers Market for a fun day on the farm. This is a free event! For more information about this event and our group visit our facebook page: https:// www.facebook.com/AuburnOpelikaMOPS/ “Blackberry Smoke” Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org. The Market at Ag Heritage Park See July 26 for details. Summer Code Club See July 23 for details.

September Sept. 1 - Sensory Friendly Saturday See August 4 for details. Sept. 1 - Dragon Con Night at Georgia Aquarium 7 PM. www.georgiaaquarium.org. Sept. 2 - Labor Day Weekend Concert: Sister Hazel The Amp, Lake Martin. www.theAMPonLakeMartin.com. Sept. 6 - Mommy and Me: We Make Leaf Bowls Dean Road Rec Center. Mommy and Me classes are designed for parent and child to work together to create beautiful works of art. Projects are intended for the toddler/pre-school age group. $20/ Mommy and Child pair ($5 each additional child) + $10 materials fee. 9:30-11:00 a.m. (334) 501-2944 • ccleckler@ auburnalabama.org. Sept. 7 - Friday On the Green: Charity Bowden See July 27 for details. Sept. 7 - Homeschool Day Biblical History Center, LaGrange, Ga. We will have weaving and arts & crafts, bread making, grape smashing, pottery, and more for the children to learn about life in the ancient world! Geared mostly

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FamilyCalendar to children between the ages of 5 - 12, though all are welcome. 10 AM - 4 PM. $10 per adult and $6 per child (ages 6-12). You must provide some form of advertisement to receive the HS Day discount. Registration: We suggest pre-registration, so that we can prepare for approximate numbers. To register, please contact Morgan Cantrell at 706-885-0363. AUsome Amphibians & Reptiles Sept. 13, 21 - Join the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center staff for a one-hour presentation on the AUsome amphibians and reptiles found in our state and beyond. Children and adults will enjoy this entertaining hands-on program with live animals. Admission is $5/person. Children 3 and under are free. 4:30 p.m. preserve@auburn.edu Sept. 14 - Big Daddy Weave: Jesus I Believe Tour First Baptist Church Opelika. Big Daddy Weave is heading back out the road beginning this September for the Jesus I Believe Tour with special guest, Brandon Heath. www.transparentproductions.com. Sept. 18, 21- Fall Forest Friends. Kreher Preserve & Nature Center A unique educational experience for pre-school children and their parents that incorporates hands-on activities with nature and environmental awareness. 9:30-11 a.m. 6-week session fee is $45 per child. Topics include: Beautiful Butterflies; Icky Sticky Worm; Spotty Salamanders; 123, What do I see?; Hairy Scaly, Squishy; Wesley, the Amazing Alligator. Membership with the Kreher Preserve at the Magnolia level ($35) or above is required. www.auburn.edu/preserve Sept. 20, 27 - Fall Sundown Concert Series Kiesel Park, Auburn. Bring your lawn chair, blanket, kick back and enjoy the music. Inflatables will be available for children and food vendors will be on site. Pets (on leashes) are welcome, as well. FREE to the Public. 6:00-7:30 PM. www.auburnalabama.org/parks. Sept. 22 - Johnny Ray Century Bicycle Ride Trinity United Methodist Church, Opelika. All riders will tour the lightly trafficked rural roads of Lee, Chambers, and Randolph Counties of East Alabama. Riders on the Johnny Ray Metric and Roanoke Express will ride over a World War II-era steel Bailey Bridge and a rare wood truss bridge. Riders on the Roanoke Express have the option to race the historic Johnny Ray train; check out the time tables. www.eastalabamacyclingclub.com. Sept. 25 - Auburn Parks and Recreation Monthly Market Harris Center, Auburn. Held the fourth Tuesday of each month beginning in September, from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Produce, jams, jellies and bounty of Lee County! This event is FREE and open to the public. www.auburnalabama.org.

Ongoing/Multiple Dates Coosa River Whitewater Festival July 1-31. Wetumpka. Whitewater event for Kayaking, Canoeing, Sit On Top Kayaking and recreational paddlers. The event is for competitors and noncompetitors to have a great time on whitewater in central Alabama. Three days of activities with camping and goodie bags given to everyone who registers. www.coosariverwhitewaterfestival.com. Visit website for exact dates. The Amazing Castle Programs July. The Children’s Museum of Atlanta. Travel back to the days of fairies, dragons, kings and queens, and lore! This summer at Children’s Museum of Atlanta, be

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

inspired by the castle community brought to life in our travelling exhibit The Amazing Castle, and join CMA’s educators for endless activities filled with fantastical fun. www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org. Expressions of a BraveHeart Program A fine arts program for teens and young adults with special needs (ages 11–21), sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation, utilizing Auburn University faculty and students, as well as community volunteers. Two 30-minute sessions of art, dance/ creative movement and music will be offered and participants will select 2 of the 3 classes. Expressions meets every 2nd and 4th Monday twice a month for 1.5 hours. Opelika Sportsplex, 334.705.5560. www. opelikasportsplex.com. Art Gallery Summer 2018 Exhibition July 18 - August 17. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Works on Paper: Works in a variety of art mediums by area artists. www.auburnalabama.org. Art Gallery Fall 2018 Exhibit Sept. 20 - Oct. 7. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Works by selected Alabama artists and craftspersons as part of the annual Adventures in Art Program. www.auburnalabama.or/parks. The Fall Invitation Sept. 12 - Oct. 10. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. New works and special projects by invited Alabama artists. www.auburnalabama.org/parks. Itty Bitty Auburn Scavenger Hunt August 1- 31. Beginning August 1, participants can pick up worksheets for the Auburn scavenger hunt at any Parks and Recreation facility or find it on the City of Auburn website. Completed worksheets must be turned in to the Harris Center by Friday, August 31 at 5 p.m. As this event takes place in Auburn’s cemeteries, we ask that participants remember that cemeteries open at sunrise and close at sunset. Additionally, please be respectful of burials taking place during your visits. For info, Whitney Morris • (334) 501-2948 • wmorris@auburnalabama.org. “Silent Sky” presented by Auburn Area Community Theatre August 17-26. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. “Silent Sky” is the true story of Henrietta Leavitt, the 19th century astronomer who wasn’t allowed to touch a telescope. While she struggled to balance her dedication to science with family obligations and the possibility of love, Henrietta and the women of the Harvard Observatory made discoveries that allow us to measure the distance between the stars, and know our place in the universe. $10/ Adults, $8/ Students and Seniors. Tickets can be purchased at auburnact.org. Ticket info. (334) 332-0881. Beth Van Hoesen: The Munutiae of Everyday Life Through August 19. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. San Francisco artist Beth Van Hoesen (American, 1926–2010) began a remarkable career in printmaking in the mid-1940s. The 14 works on view in this exhibition represent the main themes Van Hoesen explored throughout her long career: portraits of friends, still life compositions (often treating unorthodox subjects), landscapes, and portraits of animals and pet companions. www.jcsm. auburn.edu.

Ward Walks with Auburn Parks and Recreation August 1 - 27. Join us on Mondays and Wednesdays in August! Each week we will visit two of Auburn’s wards and walk a 1-mile route with ward residents (or any walking enthusiasts). Walks will begin at 6 p.m. FREE and open to the public. Details can be found at activeauburn.org. www.facebook.com/auburnactive. Chick-fil-A Family Night at Tigertown Every Thursday night. Meditation Garden and Labyrinth Come and Find the Quiet Center... in the Meditation Garden and Labyrinth, provided as a community service by Village Christian Church, 700 East University Drive, (across from Auburn Early Ed.). 334-887-5111. Try the practice of walking meditation or simply sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. The garden and labyrinth are always open and guests are always welcome.

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Performances “The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System” Sept. 29. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. When the class gets lost on the way to the planetarium, Ms. Frizzle saves the day by blasting into outer space for an epic, interplanetary field trip! Hop on The Magic School Bus for a ride in Theatreworks USA’s new musical adaptation based on the original book. www.rivercenter.org. “Mamma Mia! Sept. 21 - Oct. 7. Springer Opera House, Columbus. Must-see theatre with all of your favorite ABBA songs, non-stop laughs, and explosive dance numbers. www.springeroperahouse.org. “Menopause The Musical” Aug. 25 - Sept. 16. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. It’s the Hilarious Celebration of Women and The Change!® Four women at a lingerie sale with nothing in common but a black lace bra AND memory loss, hot flashes, night sweats, not enough sex, too much sex and more! This hilarious musical parody set to classic tunes from the ‘60s, ‘70s and ‘80s will have you cheering and dancing in the aisles! www.asf.net. “Something Rotten!” Sept. 19. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. Set in 1595, this hilarious smash tells the story of Nick and Nigel Bottom, two brothers who are desperate to write a hit play. When a local soothsayer foretells that the future of theatre involves singing, dancing and acting at the same time, Nick and Nigel set out to write the world’s very first MUSICAL! www.rivercenter.org.

Support & Parenting Groups A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an all-inclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-7281162 or email: momofpnk@gmail.com. Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-705-8877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com.

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Auburn UMC Children’s Day Out Program Every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.–12 noon. $10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information. Auburn United Methodist Church. Auburn Mommies, a fun group of moms in the Auburn/Opelika area that meet weekly for playgroups and Mommy and Me walking twice a week. We also have a Mommies Night Out once a month. Http:// groups.yahoo.com/group/auburnmommiesinalabama/. Auburn Mommy and Me Big Dog Running Co, Auburn. 10–11 a.m. Social time, story time, music/movement, arts & crafts. Ages 9 months–3 years. Free! 334-209-2580.

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Grandparents and Non-Parent Relatives or Friends Raising Children Support Group For grandparents or any non-parent involved in raising younger children. Meetings first Monday of every month @ Auburn United Methodist Church Annex, Room D134, 6 - 7 p.m. Various speakers and lots of support from others in your same situation. Childcare is provided. Phone Lisa @ 334-421-7163 or Debra @ 334-332-9703. La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. @ Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, Airport Plaza, 323 Airport Road Suite E, Auburn. For more information call LLL of Auburn/Opelika, Leader, Josie Ettinger (h)334257-3950 or (c)334-740-8780.

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GRACE - Post-Abortive Support Group Are you struggling with feelings of regret or sadness from having a pregnancy termination in your past? Do you feel like you can’t share these struggles with anyone? Would you like to find healing and forgiveness? You are not alone. Women’s Hope Medical Clinic wants to help you! You are invited to take part in our GRACE abortion recovery group. This confidential group gives you the opportunity to process the grief of your termination in a safe and non-judgmental setting. If you would like more information about the times, dates and location for this group, call or e-mail Sherry at Women’s Hope: 334.502.7000 or sherry@ womenshope.org Don’t let the regret of the past rob you of the joy in the future. Call us today. We are here to help.

Auburn/Opelika MOPS & MOMSnext We meet the first and third Thursdays of the month at Trinity United Methodist Church in Opelika. We offer fellowship and fun for moms of kiddos from infancy through age 15. We offer play dates, moms nights out, and special events! For more information check us out on Facebook at Facebook.com/AuburnOpelikaMOPS or email us at auburnopelikamops@gmail.com. Bible Study Fellowship Held at Parkway Baptist Church, Thursdays at 10 a.m., (334) 546-1386. Bosom Buddies (a breast cancer support group) Meets at The Health Resource Center the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. (334) 528-1260. www.eamc. org.

Lee County Department of Human Resources Now recruiting foster/adoptive families. To learn more about fostering and adoption please call our office at 334-737-1100. Please join us in this endeavor to help our foster children. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that are waiting to adopt are welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net

Food Allergy Support of East Alabama The Food Allergy Support of East Alabama group offers support through the sharing of information and resources. We are also working to increase awareness of food allergies in the state of Alabama. For more information, visit our website at www. foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334826-3082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net.

Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974. Parent Educational Workshop - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy. 2nd Tuesday of each month, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika. Parent Support Group - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy meets the 1st Monday (unless national holiday), 9:00-11:00 a.m. and the next evening (Tuesday) from 6-7:30 p.m. Visit www.leecountyautism.com for complete information. Email info@leecountyautism.com or call 334-740-0716. Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama offers 2nd Saturdays, group classes, and more. Contact Penny Messer at 334-444-6827. Email smoea@bellsouth. net. Website www.smoea.vpweb.com or find us on facebook. Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@insideyfc.com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com. Therapeutic Foster Care Program Foster a Child’s Future Today - Become a Therapeutic Foster Parent! Certification classes are free. Please call Joanna Fisher Champagne at Lee County Youth Development Center’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program. (334) 749-2996, Ext. 311 - You can make an eternal difference in a child’s life! Trinity UMC (Opelika) Mom’s Morning Out Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45–12. $15 per child, $5 each additional. Trinity United Methodist Church.

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Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register. Caregiver Support Group Caring for a family member or friends can be rewarding, but it’s not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your parents, spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn ways to cope with every day stresses of caring for someone you love. Gain tools and resources to help you on your journey. This program is supported by the Opelika Sportsplex, Lee-Russell Agency on Aging and HomeInstead Senior Care. This group is open to the public. Meets the last Monday of each month at 12:30 p.m. at Opelika Sportsplex AAC. Instructors are: Valeri White (Sportsplex), Bridgette Sager (Home Instead Senior Care), Lisa Askew (Lee-Russell Council of Gov).

Auburn United Methodist Church from 9:30 - 11:30. Childcare is provided, although we ask that you make reservations if possible. Meetings are open to mothers with children ages 5 and under. www.facebook.com/ mopsofauburn mopsofauburn@gmail.com.

Auburn University Football Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game. Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Sept. 1. Home Games, Sept. 8, 15, 22, 29. Montgomery Biscuits Baseball July 28-31. Aug. 1, 8-12, 19-28. Columbus Lions Football July 28.

for more information. Miracle League To volunteer or for more information, www.miraclefield. org or eamiracleleague@gmail.com. MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids. New website is www.auburnmoms.com. MOPS of Auburn We meet the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at

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

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Hotel Transylvania 3: Summer Vacation

Ant-Man and the Wasp

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: C+ Violence: BSexual Content: BProfanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: B+ Between evading vampire hunters for more than a century, and playing host to throngs of vacationing monsters for decades, it has been all work and no play for the staff at the Hotel Transylvania. And the stress is starting to show. When Mavis (voice of Selena Gomez) finds Dracula (voice of Adam Sandler) talking to himself in the attic, she decides to book a holiday so he and the rest of the crew can enjoy some time away. Although her good intentions are appreciated, Dracula’s real issue isn’t being too busy. It is being too lonely. Now that Mavis is grown up, married and a mother, the widower is beginning to wish he had a special someone of his own. Luckily, the cruise she books has the possibility of fixing both problems: Parents who accompany their little ones may find themselves sitting up in their seats on at least a few occasions. First, the script is all about an assassination attempt and plan for genocide – which gets frightening at times even if it is coated in comedy. Then there is mild innuendo, the portrayal of characters in scanty swimwear, and the staff at a casino that parody male strippers (these animated characters are muscular, shirtless and clothed in only tiny shorts). Lastly, the ham-fisted message of acceptance of others doesn’t only uncomfortably feel like it is alluding to a broad range of diversity – it also includes a sexual reference which, in context, promotes polyamorous relationships. This third visit to the Hotel Transylvania may not be the sweet entertainment getaway your family is expecting.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: C Sexual Content: B Profanity: BAlcohol / Drug Use: B+ If you’re looking for a summer distraction away from the heat, but are reluctant to bet your bucks on a superhero movie, you might want to reconsider Ant-Man and the Wasp. One of the few Marvel films that a rookie can enjoy without a thorough knowledge of the pen and ink canon of comics (although viewing the first Ant-Man movie would be helpful), this action comedy serves up some good laughs for older kids through to adults. Another family bonus is the violence is less explicit relative to other titles in this genre, however there is no shortage of action scenes. Visually engaging with its many special effects depicting expanding/ shrinking characters and objects, the story picks up with Scott Lang (Paul Rudd) or, when he’s wearing his amazing suit, Ant-Man. Lang is serving a house arrest sentence for his illegal, albeit well-intentioned, choices. His ability to keep the strict rules during the final days of his confinement are rigorously strained after the plot kicks in and Lang is coerced into helping Dr. Hank Pym (Michael Douglas) and his daughter Hope (Evangeline Lilly) find Pym’s wife Janet (Michelle Pfeiffer). Family relationships are a strong focus in the story. Separations and reunions between parents and kids feel genuine and emotional, elements not typically found in this franchise. Likewise, the good natured humor in this movie truly helps Ant-Man and the Wasp fly high with both Marvel fans and families looking for a movie retreat that doesn’t sting.

Mamma Mia!

Uncle Drew

Here We Go Again!

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: B Profanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: B Uncle Drew begins with Dax (Lil Rel Howery), a shoe salesman and amateur basketball coach, who has scraped together a team and the $5000 entry fee for Harlem’s famed Rucker Tournament. One week before it begins, his team is wooed away by his nemesis – a cartoonishly immature rival from his teen years named Mookie (Nick Kroll). Humiliated, broke, and homeless when his girlfriend kicks him out (only to let Mookie move in), Dax decides his only hope is to find another team and make a desperate try for the Rucker’s $100,000 prize. Wandering through Harlem, Dax stumbles across Uncle Drew (Kyrie Irving) as he trounces a young man on an outdoor court. Dax is familiar with the old man’s legend – a brilliant player who threw away his chance at winning the 1968 Rucker when he slept with a teammate’s girlfriend and destroyed the team. Despite his advanced age, Dax recognizes real talent. He begs Uncle Drew to play for him and eventually agrees to his demand to choose all the players. Not surprisingly, Uncle Drew wants to reunite his 1968 teammates, despite their age and interpersonal conflicts. The rest of the movie follows the predictable formula used in underdog sports movies, but Uncle Drew pushes past this genre and reaches into the realm of fantasy. Despite its unrealistic aspects, there are positive messages about unity, teamwork, forgiveness, and not stereotyping people based on age or appearance. Even with these good messages, this movie might struggle to find an audience.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: B+ Sexual Content: C+ Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C It has been ten years since the last Mamma Mia movie. Although we are not sure how much time has passed for the characters, we do know one thing: A year has gone by since the death of Donna (Meryl Streep). During that time, her daughter Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) has devoted herself to fulfilling mom’s dream of turning their little piece of Greece into an upscale hotel. We know, because of the pervious film, that Donna will encounter and have a sexual fling with three young men who will all be potential candidates as Sophie’s father. And the fun of this sequel is supposed to be meeting the young Sam (Jeremy Irvine), Harry (Hugh Skinner) and Bill (Josh Dylan), and learning how these romances came to be. The other entertainment, intentional or otherwise, is seeing how the writers of this musical have worked various ABBA classics into the script. While the editing between Donna’s past and Sophie’s present is creatively accomplished, the challenge still remains of excusing the characters’ promiscuous behavior – even though the one-night-stands are implied rather than shown. Yet what Mamma Mia 2 does do well is showing the importance of family ties. Despite the fairytale nature of the congenial Dads and their attitudes over paternity, this second visit to the sun-kissed island has fewer sexual moments and innuendo than the first and proves unexpectedly emotional in its portrayal of the bond between parents and children. Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2018

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RAISING AWARENESS OF THE THREAT OF ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF APPROPRIATE ANTIBIOTIC PRESCRIBING AND USE IN THE COMMUNITIES, IN HEALTHCARE FACILITIES, AND ON THE FARM

• At least 80 million antibiotic prescriptions each year are unnecessary. • Antibiotics are only needed for treating certain infections caused by bacteria. • Antibiotics do not work on viruses such as colds and flu. • Antibiotics are not always the answer. Everyone can help improve antibiotic prescribing and use. • S tay healthy and keep others healthy by washing hands, covering cough, staying home when sick and getting recommended vaccines.

Viruses or Bacteria: What’s got you sick? Common Condition:

Common Cause Bacteria

Bacteria or Virus

Virus

Are antibiotics needed?

Strep throat

✔

YES

Whooping cough

✔

YES

Urinary tract infection

✔

YES

Sinus infection

✔

MAYBE

Middle ear infection

✔

MAYBE

Bronchitis/chest cold (in otherwise healthy children and adults)*

✔

NO*

Common cold/runny nose

✔

Sore throat (except strep)

✔

Flu

✔

*Studies show that in otherwise healthy children and adults, antibiotics for bronchitis won’t help you feel better.

www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use

Prescription opioids can be ADDICTIVE and DANGEROUS.

IT ONLY TAKES A LITTLE TO LOSE A LOT. www.alabamapublichealth.gov/pharmacy