Auburn Opelika Parents December 2019 by KeepSharing

December2019 4

Volume 10 Number 10

Columns 4

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Therapeutic Parenting Find encouragement and a knowing that you aren’t alone on this hard road that is parenting.

Parenting the Video Game Fanatic

How to encourage other interests.

A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

28 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

Get This!

Keep the Hush in Your Holiday Rush

Holiday Happenings

Ways to stay relaxed all season!

Lee County holiday parades, lights, musicals and more!

Gerry Paige Smith

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Departments On The Cover Meet the Sirmans children: Julian (9), Ella Grace (8), and Harrison (4). Their baby sister Emme Clare is not pictured. They are the children of Dr. and Mrs. Stace and Kim Sirmans. Julian and Ella Grace both love music and enjoy playing piano. Julian also enjoys fencing and playing tennis. You can catch Ella Grace as a Spanish chocolate, a Russian Trepak, and a soldier with her friends from Variations Studio in this season’s Nutcracker Ballet. When not rehearsing, she’s prepping for dance competition season, crafting, and creating. Harrison enjoys soccer, and all three enjoy reading, drawing, playing with friends, and visiting family.

Bits and Pieces 9

Teacher of the Month 12

School Bits 46

Family Calendar 52

Movie Reviews 1

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Publisher’sNote Have you decked your halls or trimmed your tree? It’s that time of year again. The holiday season is here full of merriment and joy! Not only are the houses and downtown shops glowing and sparkling from top to bottom, but also our spirits are cheerful and jolly. December brings with it a time to celebrate family and friends, as we give thanks and reflect over another year gone by. In the midst of all the hustle and bustle of planning, shopping, cooking and cleaning, our tinsel can sometimes get tangled. With so much to prep and prepare for, it’s easy to get caught up in all the fun, just to realize you are no longer experiencing the most wonderful time of the year. So much to do and so little time to make it all happen. If you’re not careful, like me, you can slowing turn green, become downright Grinchy and start chanting ‘Bah Humbug’! In this month’s feature article, 21 Ways to Keep the Hush in the Holiday Rush, the author gives some great ways to keep you in the holiday spirit. One idea is to ‘Go for Good Enough’. Are you overwhelmed with putting up all the Christmas decorations and maybe no one to help in the yearly traditions? Maybe this year, only get out half of the miniature angels and tiny reindeer. For me, I have always loved putting up a tree in almost every room in the house. I’d spend a week planning the perfect theme and then carefully placing each ornament and bow in it’s perfect spot. However, this year, I am late to the party and find myself worried about having the time to fill the house with all the traditional whimsy and wonder that each tree would bring. The hardest part…reminding myself that it is okay to just make it good enough this season. One beautiful tree, in the heart of our home, will elicit the same happiness and magic as years past. The joy of the season is more important than being stressed toward an impossible goal of perfection. Another tip I will be including into my December plans is to ‘Hit the Hay Harder’. With the evenings getting darker earlier, I tend to think it is later than it actually is. Why not use the fading daylight this winter to get more rest for the family? In our house, I notice that dinner time and homework are all finished earlier than normal and I find the kids begin to wind down and cuddle under blankets much sooner than in the fall. Well, Baby, It’s Cold Outside! So snuggling together and going to bed a little early is just what we need. Not only will there be more silent nights, but the extra time, after they fall asleep, can help with last minute gift prepping and wrapping. As you are dashing through the town, hanging the stockings by the chimney with care and the kids are making their lists for Santa to check twice, take a few moments to reflect on what this time of year means to you and your family. Slow down, stress less and sing some joy into this world as you take in all the sights and sounds this season. From our family to yours, we wish you a Merry Christmas and a Roaring 20’s New Year!

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

Auburn Opelika Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher Kendra Sumner Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Mark Gregston Christina Katz Cheryl Maguire Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dave Ramsey Gerry Paige Smith Heidi VanderVelde, MD 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 2019 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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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

The Hard Road of Parenting I think there is some unspoken expectation that exists when you author a monthly parenting column. An expectation that the author’s own children will be positively delightful at all hours of the day, that the children spend their free time tutoring each other in Latin, and they work toward peace in the Middle East in their free time instead of playing video games. Well, let me just implode that perception for you right now. Just last week I had the (ahem) privilege of finding out that one of my precious darlings said something incredibly hurtful and ugly to another child. And it is hard. And it is frustrating. And it is maddening and embarrassing. I had ALL the feelings that day. It reminded me of a day a few years ago when I ran into a friend in a grocery store and, in the midst of friendly small talk and catching up, I asked her how her kids were and she immediately burst into ugly cry tears. Turns out, she was on her way to the school – the principal had just called and she had been holding it in trying to just get through the checkout line.

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

I tell you all of this to say – I get it. We all get it. Rarely does a parent walk this hard road of parenting and arrive at Destination Adulthood completely unscathed by something that happened with their child. Maybe it’s a teenager who crashed his car into an ambulance within the first six months of driving (personal true story), maybe it’s the middle schooler who skipped first period to go hang out with friends instead of doing Algebra (personal true story), maybe it’s the toddler that had to be carried out of the store kicking and screaming after breaking every last pickle jar in the aisle. Whatever it is we have all either been there – or we are headed there. So it is my encouragement to you, fellow parenting warriors, that we all realize our children are going to screw it up, they are going to get things wrong, they are going to do or say things they should not. And oddly, that’s ok. That’s the process of childhood. It is our role as their parents to love and lead and guide and disciple

and train and teach them in the way they should go. So often we think we should be “good enough” to prevent them from making mistakes in the first place, and I would encourage you to challenge that line of thinking. You are good enough. But predicting and mitigating every last mistake your kids are going to make before they happen is just unrealistic and tends to do little else than heap coals of shame and guilt upon our heads. So in the words of Taylor Swift, shake it off. Be available to your children, be their soft place to land in this world of hard, be thoughtful and intentional in your response to their mistakes, and always remember that you have a crowd of other parents cheering you on. And hey, if you have to cry in the middle of the grocery store, cry. They have a whole aisle of tissues just waiting for you. Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.

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CHRISTMAS IN CAMELOT Month of December • 4:30 - 10 p.m. Off of Rocky Brook Road DECORATIONS SWAP December 2 • 5 - 7 p.m. Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library OHS/OMS CHRISTMAS BAND CONCERT December 3 • 6:30 p.m. Opelika Center for Performing Arts SNO-PELIKA Official Kickoff and Tree Lighting Courthouse Square & Downtown December 4 • 5 - 8 p.m. Sponsored by East Alabama Medical Center opelikachamber.com OPELIKA CHRISTMAS PARADE December 7 • 10 a.m. Rain Date December 8 • 3 p.m. opelikachamber.com OHS/OMS CHRISTMAS CHORAL CONCERT December 12 • 6:30 p.m. Opelika Center for Performing Arts

CHRISTMAS IN A RAILROAD TOWN December 13 • 5 - 8 p.m. Sponsored by Kia of Auburn opelikamainstreet.org

VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDES December 15 • 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. Provided by Friends of the Library

REINDEER EXPRESS December 13 - 15 5 -8 p.m. • Monkey Park $2 train rides Children 2nd grade and younger

FA-LA-LA FESTIVAL December 21 • 10 a.m. - Noon Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library

VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH DRIVING TOUR December 11 -15 • 5 - 10 p.m. opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH BIKE TOUR December 12 • 6 p.m. COLLINWOOD LUMINARIES December 13 • 5 - 9 p.m. 51st Anniversary Off of 10th Street

CHRISTMAS MOVIE MARATHON December 23 • 10 a.m. - Close Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library New movie starts every 2 hours

Your Christmas Destination Opelika, Alabama

VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH WALKING TOUR December 14 • 6 - 9:30 p.m. opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com

2019 • WWW.OPELIKACHRISTMAS.COM • #MYOPELIKACHRISTMAS 5 www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Sno-pelika!

Join the Opelika Chamber and East Alabama Medical Center for Opelika’s Biggest Christmas Season Kick-Off Event ever, December 4, 5:00-8:00 PM, at the Courthouse Square. This event will include an inflatable snow globe for pictures, a giant inflatable slide, a Reindog Parade for dogs and their pet owners, a Sounds of the Season Caroling Competition and a Giving Back Sleigh! The event will conclude with an official tree lighting! Kick-off the holiday season at this one of a kind event! This event is FREE FOR ALL! www. opelikachamber.com/events

Auburn Christmas Parade 2019

Opelika Christmas Parade 2019

Don't miss the 2019 Opelika Christmas Parade on December 7 at 10:00 AM! Floats will be decorated with fun tributes to the Victorian days according to the holiday season and all of its magical wonders. If you would like to participate in the parade, please complete an application form. The form and guidelines can be found on the Chamber's website, www.opelikachamber.com For more information, call (334) 745-4861.

Join the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association for the annual Auburn Christmas Parade at 2:00 PM on December 8. Floats, bands, Aubie and even Santa Claus will be filling the streets with Seasonal Cheer and Joy! www. downtownauburnonline.com

“The Nutcracker” at the Gogue Performing Arts Center

Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express

Children will love riding the Rocky Brook Rocket around Municipal Park, December 13-15, 5:00-8:00 PM! This adorable miniature train has been a staple in Opelika since 1955, but during the Christmas season, the Rocket transforms into one of Santa’s Helpers and becomes the Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express! Enjoy food, hot chocolate, face painting, and pictures with Santa! For more information, call 334-705-5564.

Get yourself in the holiday spirit with performances of “The Nutcracker” at the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center at Auburn University, December 14 and 15. Snowflakes, sword fights, swirling confections and a Christmas tree that reaches the sky! This December, experience the magic and join Clara as she travels to the Land of Sweets. This classic holiday ballet will feature the company dancers of Variations Dance Studio alongside many community members playing hundreds of fun and exciting roles. Saturday, December 14 shows will be at 2:00 PM and 7:00 PM and Sunday, December 15 at 4:00 PM. For tickets, www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

Santa On the Corner!

Santa Claus is comin' to town! Join the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association and the Lee County United Way for Santa on the Corner. Santa will be at Toomer's Corner on Saturday, December 7 from 12 - 4 PM and Sunday, December 8 from 11 AM until 3 PM Photos with Santa are free with a requested donation to The United Way.

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Polar Express with Auburn Parks and Recreation

Bring your kiddos to the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center on Saturday, December 7 to hop aboard the Polar Express! The “train” will depart at 8 AM, 10:30 AM and 1:30 PM. Activities include arts & crafts, sweet treats, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and much more! Children are encouraged to wear their favorite holiday pajamas. Children are required to be accompanied by an adult ticket holder. The cost per ticket is $15 + online fees for adults and children 24 months and older. Children 23 months and younger get in free with the purchase of an adult ticket. A limited number of tickets are available, so make sure to get yours now! www.auburnalabama.org/parks/programs/polar-express

Fantasy In Lights- The South’s Christmas Tradition

Treat your family to a fun tradition that’s filled with holiday cheer! It’s Christmas at Callaway, featuring Fantasy In Lights, one of National Geographic’s Top 10 Light Displays in the world. Nightly, November 15 through January 4, come make merry in the Christmas Village, meet holiday characters up close, and ride through the dazzling illuminated forest. Extend the celebration with an overnight stay, enjoy mouthwatering meals or cozy cups of cocoa in our beautiful accommodations, and explore 2,500 acres of stunning natural landscape. Create a season that’s magical with a getaway to remember – at Callaway Resort & Gardens. www. callawaygardens.com

VOCES8 Sponsored by Auburn-Opelika Tourism

The Gogue Performing Arts Center welcomes VOCES8 to the stage on December 17. The spellbinding “a cappella” talents of preeminent British vocal ensemble VOCES8 span everything from early English choral works to modern jazz and pop. The internationally renowned octet has performed throughout the U.K. and Europe, Asia, and across the U.S. VOCES8 will present the Gogue Center’s first-ever Holiday Show. www.goguecenter. auburn.edu

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Fever Facts Fever is one of the most common complaints I see in the office as a pediatrician. It can be scary for your child to have a fever and the uncertainty regarding the illness can cause you to worry or panic. As with most situations, knowing what causes a fever and how to relieve it can minimize the stress and anxiety that many times accompanies a febrile illness. Normal body temperature is around 98.6 degrees F, plus or minus one degree. The definition of a fever is a temperature of 100.4 degrees F or greater taken with a thermometer. For an infant 3 months or younger, the temperature should be taken rectally for the most accurate result. Oral route is recommended for children age 4 and up while axillary route can be useful for screening. When your child’s body detects an illness, the brain responds by raising the temperature to help battle the illness. It is usually a sign that the immune system is working effectively and fighting off the illness. In an infant 3 months and younger, it is important that you seek medical attention for a fever. A fever in the first 28 days of life is a medical emergency. Both viruses and bacteria can cause fever and the degree of fever does

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

not accurately determine whether your child’s infection is viral or bacterial. After determining that your child has a fever, it is important to keep him/her well hydrated and comfortable. The body uses more fluids when febrile, therefore hydration is very important. Giving small, frequent sips of liquid should serve to maintain adequate hydration. It is not necessary to use fever reducers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen but they will help to comfort your child. Please ask your doctor for the correct dose of fever reducer before administering to your child. It is not always necessary to seek medical attention for fever in children over 4 months of age. Some warning signs that would indicate the need to seek medical attention are as follows: • Overly fussy or appears extremely ill even after bringing the fever down with fever reducer • Was recently in an overly hot place, such as playing sports in the summer or in a car ·• Has a stiff neck, very sore throat, ear pain, repetitive vomiting and diarrhea or an unexplained rash

• Appears dehydrated-dry mouth, sunken soft spot, sunken eyes, not urinating well or unable to consume liquids • Has known chronic medical conditions that compromise the immune system such as sickle cell disease, cancer or diabetes • Had a seizure associated with the fever • Has a fever for 4-5 days ·• Appears to be getting worse Again, if your infant 3 months of age or younger has a temperature of 100.4 degrees F rectally, you should always seek medical attention. Never hesitate to call your healthcare provider with any questions or concerns or just for peace of mind. You know your child best so if you are concerned, give us a call! Dr. Katie Wolter is board certified in Pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, and the American Medical Association. She is passionate about breastfeeding medicine and is currently working on becoming an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant). She is also a member of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. Dr. Wolter is married to her husband, Jeremy, and has four sons. She loves to spend her free time outdoors with her family and friends.

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Emily Lett

Dean Road Elementary, Auburn

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Since I was a little girl, I knew I wanted to be teacher. Inspired by a love for children, learning, and creativity, I felt God calling me to be an educator. I graduated from Auburn University in 2013 with a Bachelorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s degree in Early Childhood Education. I am currently in my 7th year of teaching Kindergarten at Dean Road Elementary School. What I love most about teaching is building relationships with students and their families. My students are not just names on my class list, but a part of my heart forever. I get so excited when students come back to visit and tell me about their successes. It is fulfilling to watch students grow academically and achieve their highest potential. Teaching can be a challenging career, but it is even more rewarding. I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to work in Auburn City Schools where I have the privilege to positively impact the lives of many children in our community. It truly is a beautiful thing when a career and passion come together. Thank you so much for selecting and honoring me as the December Teach of the Month!

I am very proud that Emily Lett has been selected Teacher of the Month! It is an honor that is very deserving as she is truly dedicated to our school and to her children! She greets her students with a smile and a hug each and every day and they know that she loves them by both her words and her actions. Emily plans lessons and activities that are engaging, thought-provoking and lots of fun! She takes great pride in getting to know her students individually, as well as collectively, and utilizes the best instructional practices to help prepare them for future success! She is a leader on our staff and is always willing to share, as well as learn new and innovative ways to improve her practice. She goes above and beyond the walls of Dean Road as she can be seen taking her students for ice cream or attending various extracurriculur activities that her students take part in. We are blessed that she is a part of the Dean Road Family and are extremely proud of her for receiving this recognition!

Emily Lett â&#x20AC;&#x2039;

Dr. Jackie Greenwood Principal, Dean Road

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Autauga County Schools

Making Math Fun at Morris Avenue Intermediate School

Richland Elementary Veteran’s Day Service

The parents at Morris Avenue Intermediate School enjoyed a fun and informative evening with their children. They learned new strategies and played fun Math games that reinforce basic skills. Third grade focused on games that reinforce addition and multiplication skills. Fourth grade covered multiplication using arrays while fifth grade discussed fractions using clock faces and estimating sums.

Richland Elementary honored Veterans with connections to the student body! There were more than 90 service men and women in attendance that were celebrated at the event in addition to the ones that are currently deployed. The first grade choir, under the direction of Mr. Rowser, led songs such as "You're a Grand Old Flag" and "When Johnny Comes Marching Home!" Ceremonies like this is just as important to the Veterans as it is to the students, teachers, administrators and parents in attendance!

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Auburn City Schools Professional Development

Auburn City Schools was well represented at the 46th Annual Conference for Middle Level Education in Nashville! This is 3 days of innovation, creativity, and inspiration specifically for educators at the middle school level with more than 300 sessions being offered on topics such as student achievement, bullying/safety, and dropout prevention. The keynote speaker was author of “The Gift of Failure”, Jessica Lahey, and school leadership expert Baruti Kafele.

Fire Department Visits Dean Road Elementary

Thank you to the Auburn Fire Department for taking time out of their day to teach students at Dean Road Elementary the importance of Fire Safety and how to communicate with first responder agencies!

Drake Middle School Veterans’ Day Program

J.F. Drake Middle School held their annual Veterans Day program! The door was open to all service men and women to be celebrated by our sixth grade students, with one veteran even donating to the school an American Flag that had been flown in conflict over Afghanistan.

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Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

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AHS Students Attend iGEM Giant Jamboree

Auburn High Students Sarah Yun, Scott Yae, and Alice Woo traveled to Boston to participate in the iGEM Giant Jamboree! The International Genetically Engineered Machine (iGEM) Foundation is an independent, nonprofit organization dedicated to education and competition, the advancement of synthetic biology, and the development of an open community and collaboration. iGEM began in January 2003 as an independent study course at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) where students developed biological devices to make cells blink. This course became a summer competition with 5 teams in 2004 and continued to grow to 13 teams in 2005; it expanded to 340 teams in 2018, reaching 42 countries and over 5,000 participants.

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AHS Students Earn Eagle Scout Rank

Auburn High School 11th grader Joe Vollenweider and 12th grader Camp Steiner both passed their Eagle Scout board of review, making them Troop 50's first and second #EagleScout of 2019, and the 20th and 21st since the troop's founding in 2012, respectively!

Class was a Hoot at AEEC Mrs. Kuhlman's first grade class at AEEC finished their owl study by dissecting owl pellets to discover how their bodies digest food.

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Autauga County Schools Unforgettable Season at LSA

“The spirit, the will to win, and the will to excel are the things that endure. These qualities are so much more important than the events that occur.” -Vince Lombardi Thank you, Warriors, for an unforgettable season! Special thanks to the band, cheerleaders, dance team, and our fans for supporting us each week. And we can’t forget to thank the parents of these students who give of their time and talents to support our students and athletes. Seniors - We wish you all the best! Thank you for all the memories. We will miss you!

Auburn Thunder Competes in State Cup Championship

Auburn Thunder '05/'06 Girls played in the Alabama State Cup Championship in Foley. The team defeated NASA from Huntsville to advance to the championship game. This team ultimately lost to Fusion from Oxford in the championship game, but we want to congratulate our students on this team for an outstanding season and ending as Alabama State Cup Champion Finalist.

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

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Chambers Academy Fall Festival

On Saturday, November 9, the Chambers Academy PTO successfully sponsored its annual fall festival at CA. The event was a big success with multiple contests and games for children to participate in. The night gave families a great opportunity to come out and get involved with their children in school activities. The PTO sponsored a cake-making contest for students and a chili-making cookoff for parents. The K5-3rd grade cake-making contest winners were Saylor Ayers (1st place), Jordyn Johnson (2nd place), Sadie Hurst (3rd place) and Emmalee Jackson (4th place). (Pictured left to right). The 4th-6th grade cake-making contest winners were Tanton Ayers (1st place), Laiken Taylor (2nd place), Tristin Ayers (3rd place) and Beth Landrum (4th place). (Pictured left to right). Mr. Brandon Ison won first place in the chili contest and Mr. David Howard captured the second place award. The PTO would like to thank all of the parents and supporters that helped make this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CA Fall Festival a big success!

Congrats!

Both the boys and girls Cross Country teams are AHSAA Class 7A Section 2 Champions!

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Autauga County Schools

Mayor’s Lamplighter Award Recipients

Cynthia Boyd and Eron Smith were named two of the first six recipients of the Mayor's Lamplighter Awards during the inaugural State of the City Address at the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center! Mrs. Boyd began working in Auburn City Schools at Boykin Street Elementary in 1973, and was both Mayor Ron Anders and Eron Smith's teacher during her tenure before her retirement in 2003. Mr. Smith was born & raised in Auburn, and has been teaching and directing the Choral Program at Auburn High School since 2007. These two individuals have made a significant impact on countless young people in our community, and as the Mayor simply put it when describing the award "poking holes in the darkness."

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

OHS Students Help Decorate Opelika’s Christmas Tree

Students in Mrs. Lazzari's class at OHS had a great time helping the City of Opelika City Government decorate the tree for Christmas in Opelika.

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Yarbrough Students Visit Nature Center

Students from Yarbrough Elementary visited the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center! They learned all about the nature that exists in our community as well as interacted with snakes. Thank you to Jennifer Lolley and her staff for having us!

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Veterans Day at Wrights Mill Road

The Veterans Day Program at Wrights Mill Road is one of the most beloved traditions during the school year. What an honor to spend time celebrating our special veteran guests, watching video messages from former students now serving, enjoying our Honor Choir, and setting “America’s White Table” as a symbol of our appreciation for all who serve our great nation.

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Autauga County Schools

Opelika Schools Receive Community Service Grants

Special thanks to Representative Jeremy Gray for presenting community service grants to Opelika High School, Opelika Learning Center, Southview Primary School, Jeter Primary School, West Forest Intermediate School, and Carver Primary School in District 83. Our schools and principals appreciate your contribution!

Morris Avenue Student Named State Winner in Cabbage Program

Congratulations to Shelby Morgan from Morris Avenue Intermediate School for being named the Alabama State Winner in the 3rd Grade Cabbage Program! Shelby was presented with a check and other gifts from Bonnie Plants as the state winner.

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

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LSA Health Science Class Visits Local College

Students in Mrs. Parker's Health Science class visited Southern Union State Community College and learned about their Surgical Tech, EMT, Nursing, Massage Therapy and X-Ray Technology programs. Students got to perform hanging IV fluids, seeing X-rays performed, and figuring out medicine dosages. Special thanks to Dr. Lisa Shiver for providing an awesome handson learning experience for our students!

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Red Ribbon Week at Southview Primary School

Students at Southview Primary School in Opelika were looking groovy during Red Ribbon Week. Students in Ms. Foxâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class were feeling like real superheroes during Red Ribbon Week!

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Autauga County Schools Chambers Academy Veteran’s Day Program

The program was well attended with CA’s students participating to help celebrate the bravery and sacrifices of all of our U.S. veterans. Students were reminded to remember that “Freedom is never free.” A number of local veterans attended the program and were recognized with their various branches of the armed services. Following the program a reception was held for all honored guests and our veterans.

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

Chambers Academy host our annual Veteran’s Day program on Monday, November 11 at 10 AM in our gymnasium. The program was sponsored by CA’s Student Government Association and honored with retired U.S. Army private E-2 class and local Chambers County native, Tyler Nelson serving as the keynote speaker. Mr. Nelson served two tours in the U.S. army from 2003 until 2011. He is a Fairfax native and former Chambers County School System teacher that is currently serving as a recruiter for the technical program at Southern Union State Community College. He completed his infantry training at Fort Benning and served in the 3rd infantry division seeing action in Baghdad and Mohammaddyah in both 2005 and 2006. Following his service in the US Army, Tyler earned an Associates at Southern Union State Community College, a Bachelor’s Degree from Auburn University, a Master’s degree at Western Governor’s University in Utah and an Education Specialist degree from Liberty University in Virginia. Tyler and his wife Amanda are the proud parents of a daughter named Brenly who is a second grader here at CA and their son, Grayson who is in the CA K-4 program.

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Yarbrough Students’ Artwork on Display at Library Yarbrough Knight artwork is currently on display at the Auburn Public Library during the entire month of November. Go check it out!

OHS vs. Vigor Senior Night

OHS Football, Cheerleaders, and Band

Allen Orthodontics is pleased to be moving to Moores Mill in Spring 2019. is move will improve our patient experience by accommodating our expanding orthodontic services and technology, greatly increasing space for treatment and allowing easy parking and access to our oﬃce for all of our patients. Allen Orthodontics is thrilled to be joining a great mix of signature businesses that will be steps away from our new location.

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Autauga County Schools

Drake Middle School Robotics Team Places at Competition

AHS Students Compete at Trumbauer Festival

The J.F. Drake Middle School Robotics team performed well at the local VEX IQ Middle School Competition at Auburn High School! All teams ranked Top 16 in skills challenges with three teams making it to finals, and one team receiving First Place in Design!

Auburn High School students competed at the District IV Walter Trumbauer Theatre Festival in Opelika! Our student thespians did awesome across the board, and those that earned "superior scores" will advance to the State Festival in December.

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• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping • Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course

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• Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer • Basketball

ward-winning, a n a n o t u o s is Don’t m p for your m ca d re te n ce ts Chri mmer! daughter this Su On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama

Best of Parenting WINNER 10

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Susan & Larry Hooks, Owners & Directors Donna Bares, Assistant Director

800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

• Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

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Student of the Year and Youth Leadership Award Recipients

The East Alabama Area Committee on Employment of People with Disabilities awarded Mary Bergman, Class of 2019, the Student of the Year Award and Luke York, a Senior at AHS, the Youth Leadership Award at the annual awards luncheon celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month!

Veterans Day at OMS

The sixth grade students at Opelika Middle School held a special ceremony on November 8 to honor Veterans. Poems were written and recited by members of each 6th grade team, the OMS choir sang "The Star-Spangled Banner" and "God Bless the USA", and Commander Timothy S. Aja was the guest speaker. All of the Veterans in attendance were treated to a reception with their family members following the program.

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Respect

LSA Dance Team to Perform at Cramton Bowl The Lee-Scott Academy Dance Team will perform at the AISA All-Star Game at Cramton Bowl in Montgomery on Friday, December 6! Kick-off is set for 6:30 PM. Save-the-date and make your plans to be there to cheer on the Warriors who will be participating.

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

A Classical and Christian Academy 745-2464

www.tcsopelika.org

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Autauga County Schools

OHS Student Signs Swimming Scholarship

Congratulations to Opelika High School Senior Bradi Jones on signing a swimming scholarship to the University of Arkansas on November 13.

Wrights Mill Road Wax Museum

Presidents, athletes, soldiers, philanthropists, artists, writers, and more were spotted at the Wrights Mill Road 5th grade Wax Museum! This annual 5th grade event is a culmination of weeks of hard work spent researching, writing, creating and practicing throughout all subject areas. Our entire school family along with many parents and community members enjoy touring the museum and learning from our 5th grade students about the influential and interesting people.

Drake Middle School Exceeds Fundraising Goal

J.F. Drake Middle School held their big annual pep rally at Duck Samford to celebrate exceeding this year’s fundraising goal of $10,000 (through the Butter Braid sale) with a grand total of $37,400, and as promised to the students for this accomplishment, Mrs. Armstrong kept her word and kissed a pig.

1204 OGLETREE VILLAGE LANE AUBURN, AL 36830 • (334) 887-0099

Congratulations to the Liles Smiles no cavity winners! KADEN ADAMSON KAMDON ADAMSON ARYA ADHIKARI HENRY ALLEN JERMIAH ALLEN LACREASHA ALLEN LAW ALSOBROOK JOSHUA ANGUIANO-MORALES VAN ARMINIO BRAXTON ASHMORE BRYNLEE ASHMORE KIMORA AVERY EFRAIN AVILA LUCY-MAE BAILEY JANILA BAKER WILLIAM BAKER BENJAMIN BALLARD CHARLIE BALLARD RHETT BALLARD WALKER BANCROFT JULIA BARNES MIA BARNES OWEN BARNES SAMYA BARNES CIERRA BARRON MARIYAH BARSH AUSTIN BATTLE TRINITY BATTLE MAGGIE BEAMS LAYTON BEASON RY`LEE BEASON MARY BECKMAN CALEB BECKMANN ELAINE BECKMANN COLLIER BELL SA`MIYA BENNETT BRANDY BERRY AUBREE BETTENCOURT KALPANSH BHANDARI PRANITI BHANDARI COLLIN BLACK LYDIA BLACK ROBERT BLACK WALKER BLACK BARRETT BLACKMON EVIE BLACKMON GEORGIA BLACKMON HADDON BLACKMON

HANK BLACKMON PALMER BLACKMON WEB BLACKMON SPENSER(DRAKE) BLEDSOE BEAU BOCK ELENA BONILLA JASMINE BONILLA HALEY BOONE TALAN BOONE MASON BOOTH LILLIAN BOOTH SALLY BOSWELL CARTER BRADFORD KYNDALL BRADSHAW ROBERT BRADSHAW WILLIAM BRADSHAW GRACIE BRADY RAELYN BRADY ANNESLEE BRITTON CARMEN BROCK BRINLEY BROOKER SADIE BROOKER KILYNN BROOKS L`IKERIAH BROOKS MIKAYLA BROOKS A`NYA BROWN AIDEN BROWN JUSTICE BROWN KADEN BROWN JADELYN BROWN JOHN BROWN JR BRINLEE BRYAN ABIGAIL BRYANT AMBER BUCHANAN HUDSON BUCKNER MARY CAROLINE BUGG JORDAN BULGER AUTUMN BULLOCK JACK BULLOCK EMERSON BURCHETT RYLEIGH BURCHETT AMOS CADDEN FINLEY CADDEN ROWAN CADDEN THOMAS CADDEN DANIEL CADDEN JR MALEKAI CALLOWAY ETHAN CAMPBELL

KATE CAMPBELL HAILEY CANADA HARMONY CANADA JACKSON CANADA JADEN CANADA JORDAN CANADA NATALIE CANNON EZRA CARDEN VANESSA CARDENAS HARRISON CARL LANDON CARL ANNISTYN CARLETON ROY CARMICHAEL TOWNSEND CARMICHAEL ABBIGAIL CARNEY JOHN PORTER CARNEY CALLIOPE CARPENTER OLYMPIA CARPENTER ZACHARY CARPENTER KARSON CARSWELL KOLE CARSWELL CHARLES CARTER VIVIAN CARTER DANIEL CASSIANO CHARLES CAUDLE JEREMIAH CAVENDER DESTINEY CHAMBER CORA CHAMBERS NAEVIA CHAMBERS NYLA CHAMBERS BRAIDAN CHAPMAN CRESTON CHAPMAN LARKIN CHAPMAN NOBLE CHAPMAN TRISTAN CHAPMAN NEVAEH CHARFAUROS JAYDEN CHATMAN JORDYN CHATMAN NASIAH CHATMAN ROMELLO CHATMAN ROWAN CICERO BENJAMIN CLANTON CHLOE CLARK OLIVE CLARK GABRIEL CLARKE MASON COBB ALLY COFIELD AVERY COFIELD

COLLINS COFIELD HANNAH COFIELD WHITLEY COFIELD ANNABELLE COFIELD BRAYDEN JAMES COLEMAN JACOB COLLINS MATTHEW CONWAY BASIL CONWAY V CORTEZ COOKS QUINTEZ COOKS QUINTEZ COOKS SANTONY COPE JR MARIAH COPELAND QUIENTIN COPELAND JACKSON CORBITT AUDREY COTNEY SAVANNAH COX BENNETT CRADDOCK PEYTON CRAIG PIPER CRAIG KYLAN CRAYTON ENOCH CREEL MERCY CREEL SILAS CREEL ZADOK CREEL ZION CREEL GRAHAM CREGG CAMERON CREIGHTON BRAYLEN CROWE MADELINE CROY NATHAN CRUZ DE`UNTE CURTIS JACKSON DARNELL ELEANOR DAVIS PORTER DAVIS SAVANNAH DAWSON ASHTON DEASON ALIANNA DELONEY JACOB DELONEY JAMES DEWBERRY SELAH DEWBERRY AMELIA DILLMAN ADEN DILLON ANTONIO DILLON JR JAMES DIXON JAMYAH DORMAN ROBERT DOSS AKELIA DRIVER

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

ANTHONY DRIVER BERNABE DUENAS LILLIAN DUNN RAMER DUNN SHAMIRACLE DUNN MATTIE DUNNAM ELLIE REESE DUPREE TANNER DUPREE ALYSSA ECKSTRAND ELIZABETH EDDINS OWEN EDDINS JAYLEN EDWARDS SAVANNAH ENGLISH KAMRYN EVANS KENDRICK EVANS KENNEDY EVANS CLINTON CW EYKE KYLAN FANNING KEVIN FITCH DANNA FLORES MILYANIK FLORES KENDARIAN FLOYD BEJAMIN FOREHAND CARLY FOREHAND LAINEY FOSTER AYDEN FRAZIER KALEB FRAZIER OSAVEIS FRAZIER LAKYN FULLER GAVIN GALLAGHER LILLIAN GALLAGHER LYLA GARCIA MICHEAL GARCIA ROSALINA GARCIA TUCKER GASTON AVA GERSCH MASON GERSCH AARIJA GLENN CHASTILY GOMEZ HECTOR GONZALEZ JOSE GONZALEZ HECTOR GONZALEZ-JACOB CHARLES GOODIN BRENDA GOUKER CHANNING GRAF PALMER GRAF LUCY GRAN EMMALYNN GRATE

JACKSON GREEN JORDAN GRIFFIN MADISON GRIFFIN SARAH GRIFFIN FRED GRIFFIN III ALANA GRIFFITH JACOB GROSS SADIE GRUBBS D`WAYNE GUICE VIRGINIA HADLEY ADALYN HALE HARLEE HALL ANNIE HAWKINS HALLMARK CHARLIE HALLMARK SAVANNAH HALLMARK BAILEY HAMILTON BROOKS HANCY LYDIA HANCY MARIAH HANNA SHYLA HANNA ERICA HARDY MURDOCH HARDY ROXANNE HARDY JUDSTON HARMON ADDISON HARPER A`KIYA HARRIS AMARIYAH HARRIS AVERY HARRIS JACKSON HARRIS TIMOTHY HARRIS TRE`VEYON HARRIS EMMA HARRY PAIGE HART TYLER HART FLORINAHAWKINSCRISTOBAL MARY HAYNES MARKYLIN HENDRICKS ABBEY HENDRICKSON ISLA HENDRICKSON BRAIDEN HENDRIX HUGH HENRY MAGGIE HENRY RUTH HENRY VALERIE HENTSCHEL AUBRIELLA HEPBURN FERNANDA HERNANDEZ MARIANA HERNANDEZ NATALIE HERNANDEZ PAULA HERNANDEZ COLEMAN HERRING ELLIS HERRING RANSOM HERRING AVA HICKS HADYN HICKS LYLAH HIERS ALLISON HIGGINS MADDISON HIGGINS BRANTLEY HILBURN JAMES HOLLAND KELSEY HOLLOWAY JOHN HOLMES REECE HOLMES

MASON HOOD ALORA HORNBUCKLE JADAH HORNE PERRI HOVEY WESLYNN HOVEY ANNE MORGAN HOWELL WILLIAM HOWELL MARK HUDGINS SCARLETT HUDSON BRADEN HUFSTEDLER TYLER HUFSTEDLER KALEB HUGHLEY NOVA HUGHLEY AMAUDIA HUGULEY ASHER HUSSEY BRANTLEY HUSSEY ABIAGEAL HUTTON BRIDGETTE HUTTON GLEN HUTTON CHARLEIGH ISABEL CLARKE IVATT SUTTON IVATT CHLOE JACKSLAND ISLA JACKSON NORAH JACKSON TANEARIA JACKSON LANDON JACKSON HARRIS JANNEY MALLIE JARVIS OMARION JENKINS JINA JEONG JENNIFER JOHNSON MACKENZIE JOHNSON MCKENZIE RUTH JOHNSON ZORTAVIS JOHNSON AALIYAH JONES CHRISTIAN JONES COLLINS JONES HARMONEE JONES KARSON JONES LANDON JONES LEAH JONES MAYLEIGH JONES PRESLEY JONES ZY`MECIAH JONES REUBEN JORDAN VERA JORDAN JULIA KARACA KEVIN KARACA ELEANOR KEESEE HAYNES KEESEE DIAMOND KIER KAMARRIOUS KINDRED KEELAN KINSELLA SKYLA KINSELLA COLLIN KITCHENS HANNAH KITCHENS ABEL KITCHENS CANDICE KITE CHRISTIAN KITE JENNA KLINE ALEXIA KNIGHT

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LUCY MEIGS JOSELYN MELENDEZ LERA MELTON MCKINNETH MELTON EMMY MERCER LEAH MERCER MICHAEL MERIDA CHARLOTTE MERRITT HAYLEE METCALF LAURA METCALF ELLEEN MIGDAD JUDE MIGDAD KATIE MILES MALIK MILES BRODY MILLER DYLAN MILLER AVA MIRANDA BREE MIRANDA SELENA MIRANDA-OCHOA NICOLE MIRANDA-OCHOA EVAN MITCHELL JAMES MITCHELL KEVIN MITCHELL RAILYNN MITCHELL WALTER MITCHELL ZIQUARIUS MITCHELL BROOKLYN MIXON DIEGO MOLINA FERNANDO MOLINA HAYDEN MONTGOMERY CUR`MARI MOON ANDRE MOORE ANDREW MOORE EMMERSON MOORE MAR`KAYDEN MOORE RAELYNN MOORE RACHEL MORALES ABDIEL MORALES-CRUZ ARIANA MORALES-CRUZ JOSELYN MORALES-CRUZ JEYLA MORGAN ELIZABETH MOSEMAN RYAN MOSS KIPTYN MUMMA SCARLETT MURILLO KAI NASH ZOI NASH CHARLES NELMS DANIEL NELMS DYLAN NGUYEN KAYLIN NGUYEN SAWYER NICHOLS WAVERLY ANN NICHOLS JAELYN NICHOLSON NOAH NICHOLSON EMMA O` BARR CHANNING O`NEAL LACEY ODOM ANGELINA OLDHAM LUKE OLIVER WILLIAM OLIVER CHRISTIAN ORANTES

GABRIEL ORANTES BEESON ORWIN BAYRON OSORNIO KAMERE OWENS KACIN OWSLEY GERSON PAGAN LATHAM PAGE VICTORIA PARK BRENT PARK JR SCARLETT PARKER TAYLOR PASSMORE CASH PATE CHLOE PATTERSON LAYKIN PAUL VANN PEARSON CABREA PENN LEIF PEPPERS SARAH PEREZ ELIJAH PERRY JR AVERY PETERS JAYDEN PHELAN WAYLON PHILLIPS WHITT PICKARD ANNE PICKERING RICHARD PICKERING DANTAVIOUS PIERSON JR CLAIRE PIKE NATALIE PIKE KY`LIYAH PINKSTON KENNA PITCOCK LANDEN PITTS ZANDAR PLACE ZANE PLACE VERA PODLESNIK KEVIN PONDUGULA SAKETH PONDUGULA MONTREVIOUS POOLE MADISON POPE COOPER PRATT ELLIE PREWETT SIMS PREWETT RUSSELL PREWETT JR CADE PRIDGEN SKYLA PROCTOR KA`MORA PROTHRO REED RAFFERTY A`KYLA RANDOLPH JOLEIGH RANSOM RYLEE RANSOM CARMYN RAY ISAAC REAMS RACHEL REAMS JOHNSON REDDITT CECIL REDDITT, III JA`QUEZ REESE KALIYAHA REESE TAYLOR RHODES CRIMSON RICE JEMISON RICE ANNA CLAIRE RICHARDSON DAKOTA RICKS JANAE` RISER

TIFFANY RIVERA CONNER ROBINSON DELILAH ROBINSON EVAN ROBINSON KAHLIL ROBINSON RICHARD ROBINSON DANIELA RODRIGUEZ EMILY RODRIGUEZ KALEB ROLLINS EVELYN ROSEBROCK JOHN HENRY ROSEBROCK OPAL ROSEBROCK JAYDEN ROWELL JA`KHI RUDD QMARI RUDD ALEXZANDER RUSHING BENJAMIN RUSHING JEFFERY RUSHING ALINA SANCHEZ BELLA SARDINAS LINDA SARDINAS PEYTON SCALES AVA SCHULZ ALAYNA SCHWADRON ALEXIA SCHWADRON ZAYDEN SCOTT LANDON SCROGGINS GUNNER SELMAN MARY SHARESKI WILLIAM SHARESKI ELIZABETH SHARPE KAEDENCE SHORT CECILIA SIMMONS CREED SIMMONS SAWYER SIMMONS JALYNN SLATER CHARLOTTE SLAUGHTER ELLA SLAUGHTER LEVI SMALLWOOD JORDYN SMARR AUBREY SMITH AVERY SMITH D`VANE SMITH DAMIAN SMITH GEORGE SMITH JADEN SMITH JAKEVION SMITH JUSTIN SMITH PARKER SMITH RAYLAN SMITH SEAN SMITH SHEA SMITH TRACY SMITH CONNOR SNEDIGAR MADYSON SNEDIGAR JOSHUA SNIDER RILEY SNIDER JADARIUS SPARKS BROOKE SPATES MASON SPRATLIN ABBIGAIL SPURLIN CHARLES STALLIONS

LILLIAN STALLIONS LOUISE STANLEY SALLY STANLEY LAURYN STEWART LUCY STOKES DAXTON STONE GABRIEL STONE JORDYN STONE MANUEL STONE III MARY ELLA STRAIN JAMES HENRY STRICKLAND OSCAR STRICKLAND WILLIAM STRICKLAND ALAYNA STRONG MATTHEW STRONG JAYDEN SULLINS KENDALL SULLINS HALEY SUMNER KIRK SWIFT ALLY TAYLOR TYLER TAYLOR CARLA TEC JAYDEN TERRELL GABRIEL TERRY TYMNA TERRY VALENTINO TERRY NOAH THOMAS TAMYA THOMAS ETHAN THOMPSON LANDON THOMPSON HANNAH THRASH PAUL THRASH COOPER TIGNOR LEVI TIGNOR SHEPHERD TILT MORIALE TOOMBS LA`DELL TOWNS LAMAR TOWNS MALCOM TRANQUI THEODORE TRANQUI WILLIAM TRAVIS GRACE TRAWICK OWEN TREMBLE GRADY TRUETT BLAKE TURNER HARMONI TURNER CHARQUEZ TURNER ROBERT TYSON BENNETT TZOU LILLYAN VALDEZ FRANCO VASQUEZ-CRUZ NORA VAUGHAN JAYDEN VELASQUEZ HENRRI VILL DANIEL VILLATORO GEORGE VINCENT EVERETTE VIRTUE HALDEN VIRTUE JAMES VIRTUE EDMUND WADSWORTH COTY WALDON BRENTLON WALKER

KAMERON WALKER MELANIE WALKER OLIVIA WALKER OLIVIA WALKER MALAYSIA WALKER HILL JOHN WALKER V CHARLIE WARD EMMA WARE LADERICK WARE ANNA BELLE WEBB STERLING WEBB RYLEIGH WELCH SKYLAR WELCH BREYTON WELDON ELIJAH WELDON KAITLYN WELDON CHARMA WHATLEY JOHN ANDREW WHATLEY JUNE WHATLEY CALLUM WHITE WILLIAM WILDER JACOB WILLCUTT NATHAN WILLCUTT KAITLYN WILLIAMS HANNAH WILLIAMSON TOLLESON WILLIS CAROLINE WILSON JARVAE WILSON SOPHIA WILSON NOLAN WINN CHARLOTTE ANN WOOD MARY VIRGINIA WOOD CHRISTIAN WOODS JASON WOODS HUDSON WOODSON MASON WOODSON JONATHAN WOODY WILLIAM WOODY DAPHNE WOOLWARD LYNN MARIE WOOLWARD JUDSON WORTHY KATHERINE WORTHY PATRICK YARBROUGH BEAU YATES MASON YATES AIDEN YERTA BRAXTON YERTA JACOB YERTA LILY YOUNG WESLEY YOUNG WHITMAN YOUNG OWEN ZAPP RYAN ZAPP ISAAC ZHANG KADEN ZIMDAHL ALONDRA ZURITA-CRUZ

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AEEC Teacher of the Year

We are so excited to announce our 2019-2020 Teacher of the Year - 2nd grade teacher Ashley Hunter! Ms. Hunter was nominated and selected by her peers. She is an excellent representative of Auburn Early Education Center as a teacher who is kind and compassionate to all. Her students are highly engaged because of the atmosphere she creates. Congratulations Ms. Hunter! We would also like to recognize the runners up Congratulations to Preston Henry, 1st grade, and Kara Sartain, Media Specialist/ Technology Coordinator!

Drake Middle School Teacher of the Year Laura Hardy, media specialist and technology coordinator, has been selected as Teacher of the Year at J.F. Drake Middle School!

AJHS Teacher of the Year

Olivia Tofani has been named Teacher of the Year at Auburn Junior High School! Ms. Tofani is currently in her fourth year at AJHS teaching 8th grade language arts and English 9.

Richland Teacher of the Year

Mrs. Susan FranklinMcKenzie has been named the Richland Elementary Teacher of the Year! Thank you for all that you do to make Richland Elementary special. You are a true Champion!

Growing Room Auburn - 334-501-2044 644 N Dean Rd, Auburn, AL 36830

Growing Room Opelika - 334-748-9020 1755 Thomason Dr, Opelika, AL 36801

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East Samford School Teacher of the Year

Mrs. Callie Counts was named the Teacher of the Year at East Samford School! Mrs. Counts is in her 10th year as an ESL Teacher (English as a second language).

Autauga County Schools Wrights Mill Road Teacher of the Year

Wrights Mill Road is so proud of Mrs. Tami Nelson, our WMR teacher of the year! Mrs. Nelson is constantly serving our students, teachers, and families through counseling services, character building, leading our service fundraisers, securing community resources, and more. She does everything with an encouraging smile on her face and always goes the extra mile to support our school! We are so proud to call Mrs. Nelson our own, and our Teacher of the Year!

AHS Teacher of the Year

Jessica Bowlin (left) has been named Teacher of the Year at Auburn High School! Mrs. Bowlin is in her third year of teaching building construction and has been the lead on the Tiny House project at AHS.

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Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

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Alabama Art Educator of the Year

Richland Elementaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Rebecca Wall was named the 2019 AAEA Elementary Art Educator of the Year!

LEE-SCOTT ACADEMY ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE JANUARY 13, 2020 5 PM - 7 PM

Come visit LSA and discover opportunities in academics, arts, and athletics with a mission founded on Christian principles. Please make reservations with Mrs. Pat Limbaugh, Director of Admissions, at plimbaugh@lee-scott.org

Ogletree and Pick Teachers of the Year

Kathryn Knorr has been named the Teacher of the Year at Ogletree Elementary and Caleb Doster has been named Pick Elementaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s TOTY! Their entire schools along with their families were on hand to celebrate them at the Gogue Performing Arts Center!

1601 Academy Drive Auburn, AL 36830 334.821.2430 www.lee-scott.org Lee-Scott Academy does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national or ethnic origin in the administration of its admission policies or its academic, athletic, financial assistance or other school programs.

OHS Homecoming Queen Congratulations to 2019 Opelika High School Homecoming Queen Claire Worth!

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Autauga County Schools

Harvest Discovery Experience Benefits AO Discover!

Over 400 people came out to Harvest Discovery Experience on Saturday, November 9 at R&R Landscaping to support AO Discover!, AuburnOpelika Children's Hands-on Science Center and enjoy a gorgeous fall day exploring the nature trail, corn crib, cookie walk, face painting, art and machine contests, music exploration, nature-inspired art project, scavenger hunt, hammock village, reptile and amphibian lab and even a visit from some superheroes and a princess! aodiscover.com Pictured from left: Claire Goldman, Secretary of AO Discover! and co-owner of R&R Landscaping; Deanna Blackwell, Vice-president of AO Discover!, Mary Kate Inabinet, Office Manager at AO Discover!; Katie Murrah, President and Director of AO Discover!

Studying Genetics at LSA

Students in Mrs. Bryantâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 7th grade science class are studying genetics! They completed a lab experiment by extracting DNA from a strawberry. Students viewed the samples under a microscope and completed the lab by writing a report on their observations.

by Co Ca to the up pu ge ce

Imagine and Create

The Art Studio provides high quality art instruction taught by experienced artists and educators. We value collaboration, creativity, and community in order to provide a supportive and inspiring learning environment.

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

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A Page in a Book

Rolling Up With Books on Bikes Learning to cycle is a big milestone for many kids. They’ve spent their earliest years in parent-powered prams, carriages and strollers. Learning to power their own motion on a tricycle, pedal car or bike is a big step toward their growing autonomy and independence. And cycling comes with physical benefits that improve muscular, bones and cardiovascular development. As with mastering any challenge, the biggest payoff that comes with learning to cycle is the tangible demonstration of commitment to a task producing real, lifelong rewards. The sense of achievement and confidence kids experience the first time they cycle away on their own is unmatched. The following titles celebrate bikes and cycling as they prepare young readers for their rolling journey forward.

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Cycle City

by Alison Farrell (Chronicle Books) Etta has come to Cycle City just in time for the Starlight Parade, an event where every kind of pedalpowered conveyance takes to the street in a celebration of cycles. As the runup to the parade evolves, everyone is looking for someone or something in preparation for the evening excitement. Every page is filled with detailed drawings, populated with animals navigating the city on a vast variety of wheels. From tandem bikes to pedicabs, from velocipedes to penny farthings, a wide world of cycles is on display as the text prompts readers to find specific cyclists in the mix. With endpapers that feature every kind of cycle, labeled with names and description, Cycle City offers an engaging exploration of bike culture that mirrors the variety of wheels on streets and trails worldwide.

The Little Pig, The Bicycle and the Moon

by Pierrette Dube, Illustrated by Orbie (Margaret K. McElderry / Simon & Schuster) Content with a pig’s life in the mud, Rosie is doing fine on the farm until she sees a boy on a bike. Captured by this marvel of moving independence, Rosie exclaims her intention to ride a bicycle and to see the wider world along the way. But learning to ride a bike takes work and commitment. With the support of a few farmyard friends, Rosie gears up with improvised safety wear as she mounts up again and again on her mission to ride a bike. Under the light of the moon, she’s pushed and pulled by supportive friends. Every evening, she falls and she crashes. But, most importantly, Rosie gets up and keeps going. Offering humorous encouragement to aspiring cyclists, this title is a sweet celebration of the freedom and frontiers ahead for new bike riders.

Bikes for Sale

by Carter Higgins, Illustrated by Zachariah OHora (Chronicle Books) Maurice has the perfect bike for selling lemonade. With bright yellow paint and a box for his signature drinks, he spends his days making bright refreshments, pedaling and peddling them around town. Etta has the perfect bike for trundling into the woods and thickets where she collects sticks to redistribute among friends. When Etta and Maurice each experience a crash that breaks their bikes, they find their routines disrupted and with no means to go forward in the same way. But when a bike shop finds their broken cycles and uses the parts to create something new, Maurice and Etta’s separate journeys combine as they find the perfect blend of biking together, and find a friendship rooted in their shared passion for cycling. A lovely paean to salvaging things that work and finding solutions, Bikes for Sale pays off with charming vision for forwardthinking readers. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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5 Myths and Truths About Kids’ Internet Safety

Myth: Social media alienates kids. Truth: Most kids say social media strengthens their relationships. Most kids want to have fun, hang out, and socialize normally online -- and in fact, according to our research, that’s what the majority is doing. Check out these comforting stats: • Most teens say social media has a positive effect on them. • Social media is an important avenue of creative expression. • The quality of kids’ online relationships has a big impact on their well-being.

If you believe everything you hear about kids online, you might think pedophiles and cyberbullies are around every cybercorner. Yes, there is bad stuff out there. But the truth is, there’s a lot of good, and some experts are arguing against a “technopanic mindset” that worries parents unnecessarily. The bottom line is that we can’t keep our kids safe if we don’t know the facts. Here are the five most popular myths about Internet safety -- and the truths that can set your worries free.

Myth: It’s dangerous to post pictures of your kids online. Truth: If you use privacy settings, limit your audience, and don’t ID your kids, it can be done fairly safely. Although it’s true that posting anything online invites some risks, there are ways to limit them if you’re smart about how you do it. Use privacy settings. Make sure your privacy settings are set so only the closest people in your network can view your posts. Limit your audience. Only share posts with close family and friends. Or use photo-sharing sites such as Google Photos that require a log-in to see pics. Don’t rush your kids into social media. Obey the rules about keeping kids under 13 off social media. Once your kids have an online profile, they can be tagged in photos, which magnifies their online presence. If you’re going to upload photos of them, don’t identify them and don’t tag them -- that way the photo can’t be traced back to them.

Myth: Social media turns kids into cyberbullies. Truth: There are many reasons why a kid might cyberbully, and social media is just a convenient way to do the dirty work. The reality is that kids who engage in this behavior typically have something else going on that compels them to act out. They might be in crisis -- at home, at school, or otherwise socially. They may also be bullying in person, or they may have an underdeveloped sense of empathy. Awareness of a cyberbully’s circumstances -- though not excusing the behavior -- can help parents and educators recognize the warning signs and potentially intervene before it goes too far. Myth: Teaching kids not to talk to strangers is the best way to keep them safe online. Truth: Teaching kids to recognize predatory behavior will help them avoid unwelcome advances. In today’s world, where kids as young as 8 are interacting with people online, they need to know the boundary between appropriate and inappropriate conversation. Kids are often pressured by their own friends to talk about sex, so they need to know it’s OK to tell peers to back off. Go beyond “stranger danger” and teach them what kind of questions are not OK (for example, not OK: “Are you a boy or a girl?”; “Where do you live?”; “What are you wearing?”; “Do you want to have a private conversation?”). Also, teach kids to not go looking for thrills online. Risky online relationships more frequently evolve in chat rooms when teens willingly seek out or engage in sexual conversation. Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

Myth: Parental controls are the best way to monitor my kids’ online activities. Truth: Focusing on only one Internet safety method lulls you into a false sense of security. To keep your kids safe online -- and to raise them to be responsible, respectful digital citizens -- it takes more than installing parental controls. For starters, parental controls can be defeated by determined kids. They also often catch too much in their filters, rendering any Internet search useless, and they set up a “parent vs. kid” dynamic that could backfire. By all means, use parental controls to help prevent exposure to age-inappropriate material and to manage time limits. But don’t think they get you off the hook. Continue to discuss responsible, respectful online behavior, set rules and consequences for misbehavior, and train your kid to manage his or her own usage. 28

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“It’s time for karate class,” I said to my 13-year-old son. “Do I have to go?” “Yes.”

This has been a common exchange between us for a variety of activities over the past 10 years. He has tried everything from baseball to cooking class—yet nothing holds his interest as much as video games. Every now and then I wonder if it is worth investing money and time into classes or sports he doesn’t want to participate in. But if I hold off on signing him up for things, he does nothing except play video games until we try something new again. It’s a never-ending cycle.

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Are Video Games Healthy? My son is not an anomaly. According to the Pew Research Center, 72% of teens—and 84% of teen boys—play video games. There is a lot of conflicting information about video game use, so it can be hard for parents to know what to allow. It’s screen time, of course, but video gaming is often also a social activity played together with friends either in the same room or online. And if it’s a popular pastime among a teen’s peer group, some parents may be inclined to let them play for an unlimited amount of time with their friends. Playing video games can have positive benefits, says Dr. Larry D. Rosen, a professor at California State University and author of The Distracted Mind. Gaming “can offer some skill-building, including reaction time, executive functioning, and strategic thinking,” says Rosen. He cautions, though, that “playing video games can be very addictive and create problematic thinking, including desensitization to violence.”

SHE ONCE BUILT A FORT SO LARGE, THAT IT UTILIZED EVERY BLANKET, TOWEL, AND CHAIR IN THE WHOLE HOUSE.

Video Game Obsession? Rosen recommends that video game play should be limited since research shows physiological arousal increases when playing—and kids need breaks from that. He suggests limiting gaming for teens to 60-90 minutes at a time, even if parents decide to allow more total time daily. Maria Sanders, a licensed social worker, and certified parent coach, also recommends creating clear boundaries with your teen regarding when and how long they are allowed to play. She says an example of boundaries might be letting teens choose to play an hour of video games either before or after completing homework. She encourages parents to learn more about their teen’s interest in video games. Sit down and play the games with them. “The child will see that you have an interest in what they are doing,” she says, “and you will learn about why they are so attracted to the game.”

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Encouraging Other Activities Teens should live “balanced lives and not live solely in the video game,” says Sanders. But if your teen doesn’t express interest in anything else, it may be difficult to figure out which activity or sport to 31

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parents might loosen strict time limits on screen time. Instead of making negative statements about video games, Sanders says, “The best thing a parent can do is guide their child down a path of self-reflection. Asking questions like, I notice you seem pretty tired after playing video games. How are you feeling? will help your child figure out their own beliefs about video game use.” Parent negativity can make a teen feel as if they are being judged and misunderstood. Focus on their strengths while playing a video game—perhaps, for instance, their ability to help a friend get to another level. A parent should notice that ability and point out how it might connect to real-life situations. Next step: Parents can help them get out there and do just that.

Too Many Video Games: When to Worry Video game addiction is not yet a disorder recognized by the American Psychiatric Association. The World Health Organization, however, recently recognized the existence of “gaming disorder” for the first time. Excessive video game play and other types of addictions do show similar patterns, says Rosen. Some signs parents should look for are:

encourage. Sanders suggests asking your teen about the type of video games they like to play. Then you might be able to figure out an activity that uses similar skills or gameplay. An avid Fortnite player, for example, might enjoy a laser tag league. Parents should avoid simply announcing which activities their teen must do. Rosen stresses the importance of including the child in the decision-making process. With your child’s input, create a list of the types of activities they could do at home during unstructured times or when they feel bored. Similarly, involving Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

your child in discussions about organized extracurriculars will prevent them from feeling forced into participating in certain activities.

Stay Positive About Video Games Often parents make comments like “video games are a waste of time” or “video games are unhealthy” in an effort to decrease video game use. Rosen says this almost always backfires. Instead, parents could reward the child for responsible behavior. For example, when a child demonstrates that they can stop playing on their own without parent badgering, 32

• Isolating behavior or ignoring family and friends • Sneaking video game play at night or at friends’ houses • Changes in eating or sleeping patterns • Decline in academic performance or not doing homework • A need to continue playing video games beyond a time limit • An interest only in playing video games, at the expense of other activities • Always thinking about video games If you are concerned about your teen, you can contact a mental health professional to discuss counseling options. AOP

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in Parents Magazine, Upworthy, Chicken Soup for the Soul: Count Your Blessings and Twins Magazine. You can find her at Twitter @ CherylMaguire05.

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Parent-Teen Relationship Destroyers I have never had a mom tell me, “I want my daughter to be perfect,” or had a dad say, “I want to have absolute authority over my son.” Certainly, no parents have ever announced, “We want to be judgmental.” But I have heard hundreds of girls say, “My mom wants me to be perfect,” and hundreds of young men have said to me, “My dad rules our home with an iron fist.” And, thousands of teens have told me, “My parents are the most judgmental people I know.” As parents, we want a strong relational bond with our teens. But sometimes, despite our good intentions, we can be doing the very things that destroy these relationships. So what are the primary culprits that break our connection with our kids? Here are the four “most wanted” relationship destroyers.

#1: DEMANDING PERFECTION

At a recent parenting seminar, I asked each mom and dad to pull out their cell phone and text this question to their teen, “Do you think I expect you to be perfect?” After about five minutes, every phone in the auditorium started beeping with replies. About 95% of the teens said they did believe their parents wanted them to be perfect. As parents, we want great things for our kids. That’s why we try so hard to push them towards excellence. But there’s a line between encouraging excellence and creating unreasonable expectations. When we place unattainable standards before our kids, we always risk raising expectations so high that our kids just give up. Some kids will begin to rebel to prove they are in control of their own lives. Others will become hyper-aware of the high standards and turn to drastic measures in order to achieve them. We need to balance between wanting the best for our teens, and setting up impossible expectations. If you have never shared your personal flaws with your kids, they haven’t had an opportunity to see what it’s like to live with imperfection. Instead, they think that faultlessness is normal. By admitting your flaws, you give your kid permission to make mistakes

and be imperfect, and you allow your teen to connect with you in a deeper way. Plus, as your kids see your own successes and failures, they’ll understand that it’s possible to have a good life even when they’ve messed up and fallen short.

#2: HAVING A JUDGMENTAL ATTITUDE

This relationship destroyer is sneaky. I’ve witnessed parents using voice inflection, body language, and even Bible verses to make a valid point to their son or daughter— but the child only hears a harsh judgment being given. When you take a stand on issues like marijuana, homosexuality, religion, or even movies, your child may interpret your words as unfair criticism. Now, it might sound like your teen is putting words in your mouth. I mean, you’re not a judgmental person, right? But let me ask you; have you rolled your eyes when your daughter came out wearing certain outfits? Have you withheld hugs or signs of affection when your son disappointed you? We’ve all been there at one time or another. The problem is, these actions can be seen as coming from a judgmental spirit, and teens pick up on that quickly. It’s okay to voice your concern or disappointment, but be careful that you don’t belittle your kids or look down on their friends when you do so. Display grace in your actions and attitudes. And take time to listen to your son or daughter with a caring heart. You don’t have to offer your opinion to every conversation. But if your teen does ask you to speak into a topic, preface your thoughts with, “I don’t want you to think I’m being judgmental, but these are my feelings.”

#3: THE NEED TO CONTROL

As parents, we want to protect our kids. But our desire to protect can morph into an unconscious habit of control. And that habit crushes relationships! Do you want to control your son when he’s 20? Of course not! How about 18? I would guess “no.” So what about when he’s 33

15? You can see where I’m going. If you don’t want to be controlling your children when they’re adults, the teenage years are the best training grounds for slowly and carefully making that handoff. When teens feel like mom and dad control every aspect of their life, that’s when they start to act out. Rebellion is an effort to take back decision-making power, even if the resulting decisions are very poor ones. There was a sweet girl who was staying with us at our Heartlight campus and she was fond of piercings, but her parents were not. For this teen, piercing her body was a way to take control back from her parents who (with good intentions) maintained tight control over her life. Once the parents started to let their daughter make more decisions on her own, guess what? Somehow, those piercings started to disappear.

#4: CONSTANT NEGATIVTY

Try this little exercise this week—start counting the times you say, “You need to…” “What you should’ve done…” (or phrases like these) to your teen. You may be surprised how many times those types of comments come out of your mouth. A foolproof method to get your kid to shut down is to speak more negative than positive words into their lives. If you spend more time criticizing than encouraging, judging than training, condemning than approving, you’re slowly eating away at a relationship with your child. Be intentional about finding positive behaviors, actions, and attitudes for which you can praise your child. I realize that these words are tough to take. It’s not easy to hear that something we may be doing as parents is destroying our relationship with our kids. We can all readily admit that we don’t have parenting down perfectly. To build great relationships with our kids, we have to be willing to evaluate our attitudes and actions, and continue building strong and healthy ties with our teens. 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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The Shape of Play

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

From octagonal stop signs and rectangular doors, from triangular roofs to circular wheels— children experience shapes in every part of their daily lives. Finding opportunities to talk about and explore shapes not only helps children identify and organize visual information, it helps them learn skills in other curriculum areas including reading, math, and science. For example, an early step in understanding numbers and letters is to recognize their shape. Learning shapes also helps children understand other signs and symbols that support their later literacy. Preparing for the shape of things to come, the following recommended toys are ideal introductions to basic shapes in their variety of functions and forms.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Shape Sorter House

Chunky Puzzle Shapes

The shape sorter house from Battat is a take-along shape sorting playset that comes with 12 different shape pieces, a set of 6 keys and versatile sorting features that explore both shape and color. Shapes are easy to hold and manipulate as they fit perfectly through a hole of the same shape somewhere around the house. Each of the six keys feature a distinctive shape that will only unlock its matching shape door. When kids find the right key shape, they can unlock the door revealing the shaped blocks inside. Cleverly designed to store its components, the Shape Sorter House’s sturdy carry handle makes it an ideal take-along toy for continued exploration and entertainment. Combining motor skill development, shape recognition and pretend play, the Shape Sorter House unlocks loads of learning fun for the preschool set!

Introducing eight familiar shapes, this extra-thick wooden puzzle with easy-to-grasp, chunky pieces is perfect for little hands. Each basic shape puzzle piece is embedded in a contrasting color and has a matching full-color picture underneath. The shape name is also printed on the puzzle board. Kids may place the pieces on the puzzle board, but the pieces also stand upright and may be used as manipulatives or pieces in other imaginative play. Children can take a puzzle piece around the house to match it with similar shapes in their own environment, reinforcing their understanding of shape. Supporting hand-eye coordination, fine motor skills, visual perception, and shape/color recognition, Melissa & Doug’s Chunky Puzzle Shapes is a must have on the preschooler puzzle shelf.

Serving Shapes Tea Set

Play Forms for Toddlers

This colorful tea set serves up a rich menu of shape recognition, sorting, and sequencing every time kids host a pretend tea party. Featuring a sturdy tea pot and five colorful cup/saucer pairs, the tea time play is just the part of the exploration laid on the table. Each cup and saucer set comes in color and shape combinations that explore colors and counting. Kids can also work on their matching skills by pairing the shaped pegs on each saucer with the corresponding holes on the bottom of each cup. The cups and saucers fit inside the tea pot for easy clean-up and simple storage! The table is set for many afternoons of skill-building steeped in playtime with the Serving Shapes Tea Set from Learning Resources.

Before they cultivate the fine motor control to manipulate the smaller shapes of puzzle pieces and sorting boxes, toddlers can still take big strides into active shape-informed play. The Play Forms set for toddlers includes five big three-dimensional shapes (two blocks, a ramp, a cylinder and a half cylinder) constructed with solid bounce-back inner core foam covered with durable vinyl in primary colors. Soft and lightweight, these outsized, moveable shapes are perfect for climbing and gross motor exploration by toddlers. The forms don’t include connections so stacking is limited, but they are lightweight enough for little kids to rearrange and configure into forts, obstacle courses or buildings of their own design. Ideal for active play and exploration indoors, these forms combine toddler energy with a lively landscape of shapes.

(Melissa & Doug)

(Battat)

(Constructive Playthings)

(Learning Resources)

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 December 2019

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Emotions, Basics and Change Q.

I’ve gotten out of debt before following your plan, but I always seem to fall right back in. I find myself spending more than I mean to whenever I go out shopping or running errands. I’m tired of all this, and I want to stop busting my budget and get control of my money once and for all. Do you have any advice?

A. Years ago, when I lost everything financially, there were two or three extremely strong emotions that spurred me toward change. Probably the biggest emotion was fear. I was scared to death I’d be broke for the rest of my life, and not be able to take care of my family. Don’t misunderstand me, though. I don’t think you should ever live your life in fear. But a reasonable, healthy level of fear where some things are concerned can be a fantastic motivator.

Another emotion was disgust. I realized the way I had been living and handling money was stupid. So, I made a proactive, conscious decision that I was going to change, and things were going to be different. The third emotion was contentment. You know, advertisers try to make us believe our lives will be better, and we’ll be happier, if we just go out and buy their stuff. I can tell you from personal experience when this idea is crammed down your throat every day, it can warp your perception of contentment and happiness. Lots of stuff does not equal lots of happiness.

If you’ve tried several times, and are still falling back into the same old trap, maybe you should approach your situation in a practical, day-to-day way. Stop going places where you’re tempted to spend money on silly things. When you go out running errands and shopping, make a list of only the bare necessities, and take along just enough cash to pay for them. Spending money on a bunch of stuff you don’t need, and probably don’t even really want, isn’t going to bring you contentment. It’s just going to bust your budget, and put you in a financial hole that will, sooner or later, become very difficult—if not impossible—to dig your way out of!

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Are you excited about the holidays, but dreading the end-of-year rush? If so, you are not alone. Most parents approach the season with equal parts excitement and trepidation, which can lead to difficulties with decision-making from moment to moment. That’s why I’ve created this list of twenty-one reminders to help you preserve your family’s good cheer all the way through the most wonderful time of the year. 1. Go For Good Enough. If you have an idea in your mind of the “perfect” holiday, you may to be disappointed when your imperfect brood can’t uphold your image. Aim for “good enough” instead. You’ll smile more if you can let unimportant things-like slightly burnt cookies, lights that won’t blink in unison, and late holiday cards-slide.

2. Just Hit Delete. If you think your holiday schedule is grossly overloaded, call a family meeting and vote on what to scratch off your joint to-do list. Decide what you don’t want to do, first. Then decide what matters most to each family member. A one-gift-per-family-member tradition might be a sanity-saving plan that sticks. Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

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3. Call In Fresh Recruits. Even if you don’t normally hire a housecleaner, you probably could use some help now. Why not call in a cleaning service in midDecember and in mid-January to bookend the holidays, even if you don’t use one the rest of the year? Consider it a holiday present to yourself.

4. Hum Your Favorite Tunes. Haul out your seasonal music early before you tire of the omnipresent muzak that is sure to come. Load up your smart phone or iPod and carry headphones in your purse to jolly things up when you are ticking chores and errands off your to-do list. If your old faves are getting overplayed, jazz up your playlist with some fresh downloads or albums. 5. Shop The Plan. First, the plan: write down the names of everyone you truly want to give to and what you think they would like. Then, the shop: keep the list in your wallet to jog your memory when hunting down a gift each person you cherish. For store shopping, pay cash, so you won’t overspend. For online shopping, search for coupons before ordering and act early for cheaper shipping.

6. Sip Your Way To Heaven. When you are having a hectic day, take a timeout. Warm up or buy an extra-hot cup of Chai tea with a spritz of whipped cream on top. The spices will put you back in touch with your senses and the warmth will spread through your belly and soothe your frazzled cheer.

9. Bring Mother Nature Inside. Pine cones, holly, evergreen boughs, twigs, and poinsettias all remind us that there is life hibernating underneath that blanket of snow or wicked frost. Gather reminders of the season from your backyard or local garden shop and decorate the front hall,

7. Get Bazaar. Take the whole family to a local holiday craft bazaar. Look for gifts for teachers and other folks who enrich your family life. Give each child a spending limit and enjoy interacting with the vendors. Plan to spend a couple of hours browsing, so you can soak up all the creative energy.

8. Take Thirty. Line up winter reads from the library or download them onto your e-reader. Encourage the whole family to take 30 minutes a day to relax and read. Collections of short stories or essays are good choices for moms with very young or multiple children. This is a great way for everyone to decompress after a busy day.

mantle, and stairway. Remember: simple is as merry as ornate.

10. Huggy Holidays. Use “Happy Holidays!” as an excuse to hug your loved ones often. Every time you feel stressed, hug or get hugged. Your holiday stress will melt away.

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11. Stay Healthy. Put holiday-scent-

15. Question Tradition. Traditions are

ed soaps by every sink and encourage plenty of hand washing. Install a bottle of hand-sanitizer next to every box of tissues. Chase every “Ah-choo!” away. (But stock up on cold medicines, just in case, to avoid midnight trips to the market.)

wonderful, but let’s face it, sometimes even the fondest can become tired. So, if you don’t feel like tromping around all afternoon hunting for the most splendiferous evergreen on the tree farm or frying the most perfect potato latkes, buy a pre-cut tree at your local grocery store or pick up latkes at the deli instead. Use saved time to enjoy tree trimming or dreidel playing instead.

12. Lighten Up. Twinkling lights create a comforting mood. Don’t limit shimmery lights to the tree and outdoor eves. If it sounds fun, bring some solace into the kid’s bedrooms as well as yours.

13. Take A Deep Breath. Bring some uplifting scents into your cleaning routine. Check out the Mrs. Meyers brand of earthfriendly cleaning supplies. Your home and laundry will smell winter-wonderful.

14. Enjoy Spreading Cheer. Save the annual holiday letter composing and Christmas card address labeling for when you can carve out time to relax and enjoy the process. And don’t try to do it all yourself. Break the job down into steps and enlist the whole family. Remember: taking everything on without helpers is naughty, not nice.

one in your brood has warm tootsies as the mercury plunges.

19. Hit The Hay Harder. There’s less light during the winter. Take advantage of it and put the kids to bed an hour earlier than normal. There’s the extra hour you need to keep some hustle in your holiday muscle or at least wrap some presents without interruption.

16. Create Classic Memories. Play

20. Pop Plenty Of Corn. Line up

hooky from holiday prep for the day and go ice-skating or play in the cold with your kids. Drink hot chocolate. Take lots of family photos. Build a fire. Goof off. Enjoy the grins.

21. Deck The Bathroom. Hang up

17. Save It For A Heatwave. If you are really feeling a time crunch, don’t donate time to help the less fortunate during holiday time. Give time later during a less hectic time of year. There are people in need throughout every season, after all. 18. Sock It To ‘Em. Don’t wait until the temperature hits zero to stock up on slippers and socks. You’ll keep your heating bills down and your kids smiling if every-

holiday movie classics in your mail order DVD queue. Watch some with the kids and some with your honey in the wee hours.

some scented pomanders. Bring in lots of little candles (beyond the reach of little hands, of course). Look for winter-scented bath indulges in Juniper, Cedar or Musk. Sink into a bubble bath wonderland. Forget your name for ten minutes. You’ll feel more holly-jolly if can get calm and stay centered all holiday season long. Happy holy days! AOP Christina Katz is an author, journalist, and writing coach, who adores the holidays. She’ll take the rush, so long as she gets the hush, too.

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Auburn/Opelika Spirited Art ad on page 19

116 South 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Black Friday Kids Camp (‘Santa’s Workshop’), November 29th at 9:30 am Black Friday Mommy-&-Me Workshop (‘HOME for the Holidays’ wood sign) November 29th at 2:30 pm ‘Merry Mail’ Christmas Workshop with optional childcare & kids crafts, December 6th at 6 pm Kids Christmas Camp, December 20th at 9 am & 2 pm Mommy-&-Me Cookies for Santa Workshop, December 21st at 9 am Kids Christmas Camp, December 23rd at 9:30 am Family Open Studio, December 23rd at 4 pm All Ages Open Studios held weekly For more info. & registration, please visit our online class calendar at www.SpiritedArtAO.com. 334-363-5257 www.spiritedartao.com

Winter Wonderland Holiday Market

Benefiting Rape Counselors of East Alabama ad on page 7

December 5th, 10:00am - 7:00 pm Grace United Methodist Church, 915 East Glenn Rd, Auburn, AL Winter Wonderland’s vendors kick off the RCEA’s holiday fundraiser with just about anything one might find on Santa’s list! The market is open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and features a silent auction. A $5 minimum donation is requested at the door. This year’s lineup features local small businesses like Hornsby Farms, Reclaimed Wood, Better Bodies Massage Institute, Hillbilly Mall, Pampered Chef, Paparazzi, Lip Sense and Scentsy. Other vendors will have locally made artwork, crafts, pottery, jewelry, baby gifts, ornaments, children’s appliqué clothing and more. The wares may vary from dill pickles canned and grown in Little Texas to orange and blue bracelets braided in Opelika, and even the aromatic bliss of a Scentsy candle, but on Thursday, December 5th every local vendor at the Winter Wonderland

Market is supporting the same thing: HOPE By bridging trauma to recovery and education to prevention for many of those affected by sexual assault, the RCEA blazes a trail out of the darkness with the gift of hope. Drive By Tacos will also be there so you can eat lunch or dinner while you shop. Don’t miss your chance to contribute and discover all kinds of hand-made, well-crafted and unique gifts at the Winter Wonderland Market.

The Art Studio ad on page 26

118 N. Ross Street, Auburn Drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture and more! Holiday events: Kids Night Out - December 6 Saturday Art Club - December 7 Holiday Art Party - December 13 334-332-5275

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City of Opelika Christmas Parade ad on page 5

December 7, 10:00am Downtown Opelika, 1032 South Railroad Avenue Opelika, Al 36801 Don’t miss the 2019 Opelika Christmas Parade! Floats will be decorated with fun tributes to the Victorian days according to the holiday season and all of its magical wonders. If you would like to participate in the parade, please complete an application form. The form and guidelines can be found on the Chamber’s website. 334-745-4861 www.opelikachamber.com

Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour ad on page 5

December 11-15 Opelika Historic District, 8th & 9th Streets Opelika, Al 36801 The homes are decorated with life size Santa’s, angels, toys, carousel horses and Christmas themed figures. The Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour has been voted one of the southeast’s top rated tourism events and featured in Better Homes and Gardens and Southern Living. The event is a self directed driving tour. However, on

Saturday night North 8th and 9th streets will be closed to traffic to encourage visitors, neighbors and friends to stroll through the neighborhood. This enables everyone to leisurely enjoy the homes up close, listen to the carolers, and talk with residents dressed in Victorian costumes. This tour begins on North 8th street and 2nd Avenue and includes over ten city blocks. Admission to this spectacular production is free. On the Friday night of the tour the City of Opelika sponsors Christmas in a Railroad town which includes wagon rides through the Victorian Front Porch Christmas tour which includes tour guides who take you back in time while enjoying the festively decorated homes. Bike Tour: December 12, 6:00pm Walking Tour: Saturday December 8, 6:00-9:00pm. Tree lighting with Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller and his wife Laura at 6:00pm at the corner of North 8th Street and 2nd Avenue. (weather permitting).

www.opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com

Collingwood Christmas Luminaries ad on page 5

December 13, 5:00-9:00pm Collinwood Street Opelika, Al 36801 Take a drive through the Collinwood neighborhood to experience the pathway to Bethlehem. Featuring live actors and live animals, this tradition is fun for the whole family. With over 1,500 sacks with candles prepared by the Collinwood neighborhood residents, the candles are set out along the roadway through the neighborhood to “light the path” on the “journey to the manger.” Along the luminary path you will see shepherds, wise men, and angels following the star on their way to see the Christ Child. All are welcome.

Annual Christmas in a Railroad Town ad on page 5

December 13, 6:00-9:00pm Historic Downtown Opelika, 1032 South Railroad Avenue Opelika, Al 36801 Whether you’re a young child or simply a child at heart – there will be activities for everyone at this great night out in historic downtown Opelika. Join

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us for Christmas in a Railroad Town. Visit with friends and enjoy a variety of food vendors and restaurants. Bring the kids to write letters to Santa, enjoy pony rides, caroling, entertainment and other new activities! Guaranteed fun for adults includes Loft Tours, personalized gifts made on site and bundles of sweet treats for sale. Local retail shops will be open late for all your Christmas needs. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be available for family photos! Be transported back in time and take a wagon ride through the Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour. Leave straight from Christmas in a Railroad Town and be delivered back once you’re done. Enclosed trolley rides also available at the Museum of East Alabama. 334-745-0466 director@opelikamainstreet.org www.opelikamainstreet.org

Opelika Parks and Recreation ad on page 5

December 13-15; 5:00-8:00pm 1001 Andrews Road Opelika, Al 36801 Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express: Come take a train ride through the lights at Municipal Park! December 12-14, 5:00-8:00pm. Enjoy food, hot chocolate, face painting, entertainment, pictures with Santa and more! Ages 2nd grade and younger. Holiday Movie at the Plex: The Santa Claus: Don’t miss the Holiday Movie at the Plex featuring The Santa Claus on Saturday, December 8, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. This is a FREE event. Christmas Crafts: Make and take your own Christmas crafts. December 18, 2:00pm. Ages 6-10years, Fee $15. Christmas Wreaths: Decorate wreaths with all your favorite things and hang them on your door to display at Christmas. December 3, 3:30pm. Ages 5-12years. Fee $15. 334-705-5560 www.opelika.org

Variations Dance Studio Presents “Nutcracker” ad on page 11

December 14-15 Gogue Performing Arts Center Auburn, Al 36830 This holiday season, enjoy the magic and beauty of our premiere performances of “The Nutcracker Ballet”. Follow Clara into a dream-like world of dancing snowflakes and see all the colorful treats found in the Land of Sweets! Whether it is a first time experience or an annual holiday tradition, don’t miss your chance to reserve a seat at this beautiful holiday ballet. For tickets, www.goguecenter.auburn.edu 334-275-5013 info@variationsstudio.com www.variationsauburn.com

The Art Studio New Year’s Camp ad on page 26

January 2-3, 9am-12noon 118 N Ross Street, Suite 7 Auburn, Al 36830 Camp is for children age Kindergarten-5th grade. Campers will engage in art exploration. $30 + $5 materials fee per day. 334.332.5275 www.theartstudioauburn.com

Auburn Parks and Recreation

425 Perry Street Auburn , Al 36830 Annual Polar Express Holiday Celebration: All aboard the Polar Express! Children ages 12 and under are invited to hop aboard the Polar Express on Saturday, December 7 at Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Children under the age of 23 months are FREE with the purchase of an adult Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

ticket. The “train” will depart at 8 a.m., 10:30a.m. and 1:30 p.m. The cost per ticket is $15 for adults and children 24 months and older. 13th Annual Holiday Art Sale: December 14, 9:00am-4:00pm at Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Frank Brown Rec Center and Harris Center. The Holiday Art Sale is a great place to get a head start on your Christmas shopping while meeting local artists selling their own unique handmade work. Admission is FREE and open to the public! 31st Annual Daddy Daughter Date Night: Tickets go on sale December 2. Five dance nights will be held at the Clarion Inn & Suites on S. College Street. Daughters, dads, granddads, and uncles are invited to dance the night away and enjoy refreshments, door prizes, dance contests, keepsake photos, and an evening of memories. 2020 event dates are as follows: February 6, 7, 8, 14 and 15. The Jingle Jog 5k and Santa Stroll Fun Run: Pull out those ugly sweaters again Auburn! Join Active Auburn on Saturday, December 7 at 7 a.m. as we ring in the holiday season in style! The Santa Stroll Fun Run will begin at 7 a.m. at Toomer’s Corner. The Jingle Jog 5k will begin at 7:30 a.m. at Toomer’s Corner. 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org

23rd Annual Cookie Walk

December 1, 8:00am-1:00pm Grace United Methodist Church, 915 E Glenn Avenue Auburn , Al 36830 Habitat for Humanity Annual Fundraiser is still a unique way to welcome in the Holiday Spirit of generosity and celebration. Folks from the Lee County community come out to buy fresh and delicious holiday-decorated cookies. The big event is sponsored by the Auburn We Help Coalition of 12 local churches. Our guests “Walk” the aisles lined with tables displayed with thousands of homebaked holiday Cookies and goodies while they select their favorites. After generously filling their boxes, shoppers happily pay only $6 per pound. 334-329-4879 dlrwork@yahoo.com

Christmas In Camelot Lighted Tour

December 1-31, 4:30-10:00pm Camelot Way Opelika, Al 36801 The magic of Christmas comes alive throughout Camelot with the many large Christmas Cards, painted under art teacher, Roslyn Stern, by Opelika High art students. The neighborhood lights are adorned with lighted wreaths and all the houses are decorated with the wonders of Christmas. This drive-through event begins at sundown. www.aotourism.com/Event/12913/Christmas-inCamelot-Lighted-Tour/

Decoration Swap at Opelika Lewis Cooper Library

December 2, 5:00-7:00pm Opelika Lewis Cooper, Jr Memorial Library, 200 South 6th Street Opelika, Al 36801 Are you tired of your Christmas decorations? Want to try something new but don’t want to spend 12 bajillion dollars? This year try our decoration swap! 334-705-5380 www.opelika-al.gov/316/LewisCooper-Jr-Memorial-Library

Ho! Ho! Ho! Hike!

December 7, 10:00am-12:00pm Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, 2222 North College Street Auburn, Al 36082 On our annual HoHoHo Hike, we will venture out on a guided hike to try and find the elusive man in red. We’ll also explore all the other red things might we find in nature! Then, we’ll return to a warm campfire, hot chocolate, crafts, and more. 334-844-8091 www.wp.auburn.edu/preserve/

Auburn Christmas Parade

December 8, 2:00pm 122 West Magnolia Avenue Auburn, Al 36830 The entire community is invited to celebrate the season with the Auburn Chamber Christmas Parade in downtown Auburn. The parade will include Aubie, Santa, Christmas characters, live music and lots of other favorites! For float entry forms, contact Auburn Chamber. www.auburnchamber.com

The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center

241 South College Street Auburn, Al 36830 Gingerbread Village Unveiling- In partnership with Auburn University’s College of Architecture, Design and Construction Master of Integrated Design and Construction Program presents the 2019 Auburn Gingerbread Village. December 8. S‘mores and More- Tuesday, Thursdays and Saturdays in December. Gather around the fire pit on the A*T patio to sip on hot chocolate while building your own gourmet s ‘more with smorgasbord of toppings. $10 per person. Christmas Dinner- Let our culinary team do the cooking for you and enjoy a delicious four course holiday meal in Ariccia, on December 24 and 25. Reservations are recommended. New Year’s Eve Celebration- Ring in 2019 with a five course sharing menu in Ariccia, a champagne toast at midnight and live jazz band in Piccolo, December 31. Reservations are required. 334-821-8200 www.auhcc.com

East Alabama Arts presents The 10 Tenors- Home for the Holidays

December 10, 7:30pm Opelika Center for the Performing Arts 1700 Lafayette Parkway Opelika, Al 36801 Count on The Ten Tenors, sleigh-ride you through a musical winter wonderland that captures the heart of the holidays for the whole family. With festive favorites and modern holiday hits, you’ll want to bundle up and get to your seat on time for one of the Performance Series’ all-time audience favorites returning to the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. And bring a little snow with you, too! 334-749-8105 www.eastalabamaarts.org

East Alabama Community Ballet

December 13-15 Telfair Peet Theatre, 350 West Samford Avenue Auburn, Al 36849 The Nutcracker Ballet: There is no more festive way to start the holiday season than by experiencing this ballet classic. Follow Clara, as she visits the Land of Sweets and meets a prince, mouse king and queen and dances her way into your heart! Buy your tickets online. Clara’s Tea Party: You are invited to a Tea Party with Clara, December 14! Ideal for children ages 10 and under, Clara’s Tea Party gives children an opportunity to watch a shortened version of The Nutcracker Ballet, meet the dancers, and take memorable Christmas photos. lynnterraballet@gmail.com www.eacballet.com

“Back in Time” A Tradition Filled Historical Holiday Celebration

December 14, 5:00-8:00pm Pioneer Park, 6500 Stage Road Loachapoka, Al 36830 Traditional seasonal music will be provided as guests gather and prepare to enter the early 1800 to 1900s. Once escorted to their tables, costumed servers will provide a period appropriate multi-course meal within the historic buildings.

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Character actors and actresses will visit each table and provide up close and personal opportunities for guests to honor the people of Alabama. This educational entertainment will provide event participants a special glimpse “Back in Time.” Tickets are $50.00 each with all proceeds considered donations to The Lee County Historical Society. They can be purchased on the website or by calling.

Junior League of Lee County’s Annual Holiday Poinsettia Sale

Auburn, Al 36830 Poinsettias are available in two sizes and three colors (red, white, and marble.) Prices are $12.00 for 6.5-inch and $22.00 for 10-inch plants. Orders may be placed with any JLLC member or online at juniorleagueofleecounty.org.

334.887.3007 www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org

juniorleagueofleecounty@gmail.com

Santa On the Corner

Phenix City/Columbus

December 14-15, 12:00-4:00/11:00am-3:00pm Toomer’s Corner, 100 North College Street Auburn, Al 36830 Santa Claus will be in downtown Auburn on select December weekends. Bring your family! Donations will be accepted to The United Way. www.downtownauburnonline.com

Fa La La Festival

December 21, 10:00am-12:00pm Opelika Lewis Cooper, Jr Memorial Library, 200 South 6th Street Opelika, Al 36801 Opelika students are invited to kick off their Christmas break with fun, games and learning during Lewis Cooper, Jr. Memorial Library. 334-705-5380 www.opelika-al.gov/316/LewisCooper-Jr-Memorial-Library

Annual Christmas Tree Recycling

December 28 1032 South Railroad Avenue Opelika, Al 36801 A project of Opelika Tree Commission and Keep Opelika Beautiful. This takes place the Saturday after Christmas at the Opelika Chamber from 8am-12pm. Citizens receive a tree seedling in exchange for the tree. 334-749-4970 www.keepopelikabeautiful.com

The AO Christmas Market

November 29-Dec 1 Bottling Plant Event Center, 614 N Railroad Avenue Opelika, Al 36801 The Christmas Market will host a series of special events, including VIP Preview, Girls’ Night, Santa’s Workshop, to benefit various causes in East Alabama. larkin@aochristmasmarket.com www.aochristmasmarket.com

27th Annual Fantasy in Lights

Thru January 4 17800 Us Highway 27 Pine Mountain, Ga 31822 Callaway Gardens’ Fantasy In Lights, in Pine Mountain, Georgia, is not only the South’s most spectacular holiday light and sound show, it is one of the world’s “Top 10 Places to See Holiday Lights,” as named by National Geographic Traveler. Follow the links below for complete details on 2018 Fantasy In Lights.Specialty Nights: Saturday, Nov. 9- March of Dimes Night Walk Sunday, Nov. 10 - Bicycle Night; New this year are Bike Hour- December 30 Sunday, Dec. 31 - New Year’s Eve Party at Fantasy In Lights 800-898-4868 www.callawaygardens.com

Santa Claus 10K at Callaway Gardens December 1 Callaway Gardens, 17800 US Hwy 27 Pine Mountain, Ga 31822 This run course travels through the Callaway Gardens lit “FANTASY IN LIGHTS” and includes marshmallow, chocolate, and candy cane miles. Stick around after the race for your picture with Santa!

tricolumbusga@gmail.com www.tricolumbusga.com

“Cinderella”

December 5-22 Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street Columbus, Ga 31901 Rodgers + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA is the Tony Award®-winning musical from the creators of South Pacific and The Sound of Music that’s delighting audiences with its surprisingly contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush

production features an incredible orchestra, jawdropping transformations and all the moments you love—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists! Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago” in this hilarious and romantic experience for anyone who’s ever had a dream. 706-327-3688 www.springeroperahouse.org

Bi-City Christmas Parade

December 7, 9:00am Broad St and Broadway Columbus, Ga 31901 The Bi-City Christmas Parade will begin on Colin Powell Parkway, go down Broad Street in Phenix City and end on Broadway in Columbus. The parade will consist of holiday themed floats, horses, motorcycles, clowns, marching units and much more!. 334-448-2701 www.phenixcityal.us

Port Columbus’ Christmas

December 7-8 National Civil War Naval Museum, 1002 Victory Drive Columbus, Ga 31901 Santa Claus is coming back to town, and he’s setting up shop at the National Civil War Naval Museum! Families can enjoy special programming. The weekend will feature a host of community entertainment, museum tours, shopping in the Museum store, and refreshments. As always, Santa will be available during this event to visit with children and pose for photos. This event is FREE and open to the public, as a token of appreciation from the museum to the amazing supporters in Columbus, Georgia and surrounding areas. 706-327-9798 www.portcolumbus.org

“A Tuna Christmas: The Next Generation”

December 13-15, 19-22 Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street Columbus, Ga 31901 Putting the fun in DisFUNction, a brilliant new cast of master comedians continues the legacy of Columbus’ legendary Holiday cult favorite. Springer

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City’s Annual Hometown Christmas Parade winds its way through the streets of Alexander City the first Monday of each December. Spectators are invited to line the parade route to watch bands and dancers perform, see the festively decorated floats, and wait for the much anticipated arrival of Jolly Old St. Nick himself.

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Valley/LaGrange Follow the Sheppard Christmas Walks & Under the Bethlehem Star Light Show Weekends December 1-23 Explorations in Antiquity Center, 130 Gordon Commercial Drive LaGrange, Al 30240 Follow the journey of Joseph and Mary as they travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem and learn new insights into the Christmas story. These walks can be done in conjunction with the Christmas multi-media presentation in the evening. Reservations required. 706-885-0363 www.biblicalhistorycenter.com

Christmas Holidays at Hills & Dales Estate

favorites Jim Pharr and Ben Redding will play all 24 citizens of Tuna, the tiny Texas town that erupts in holiday mayhem every year with a disastrous production of “A Christmas Carol,” yard displays vandalized by the Christmas Phantom and a Humane Society overrun with iguanas, coyotes, sheep and myna birds. 60,000 patrons have made this a genuine Christmas tradition in Columbus. 706-327-3688 www.springeroperahouse.org

Cantus Columbus Christmas: Music of the Masters

December 17 RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway Columbus, Ga 31901 Year after year this holiday concert has filled Legacy Hall with enthusiastic listeners. The performance of this year’s concert will bring this Christmas series to a close. Directed by William J. Bullock, the concert recounts the Christmas story with classical masterpieces and audience carols. A string orchestra, tenor Steven Tharp and organist Jeff McLelland join the chorus and pianist Janie Lee Bullock to present a diverse selection of brief musical works in four program sections: Prophecy, Birth, Epiphany and Aspiration. The works include masterpieces by Mozart, Handel, Brahms, and others; carol arrangements from eight countries; and expressive twentieth-century miniatures. 706-256-3620 www.rivercenter.org

Columbus Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”

December 14-15 RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway Columbus, Ga 31901 Join us for The Columbus Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker at the River Center for the Performing Arts. Featuring a full orchestra Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

playing Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. 706-507-8367 www.thecolumbusballet.net

The Ludy’s Christmas Light Spectacular Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve 5784 Ironstone Drive Columbus, Ga 31907 Drive into a light display set to music like none other...over 155,000 lights! Featured on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight”. 706-443-6975 www.lundychristmas.com

Alex City/Lake Martin An Eclectic Christmas

December 1-8 Falk Farm, 1733 Claude Road Eclectic, Al 36024 It was the night that saved the world. The star shone so bright in the night sky. There was not room in the inn. Forced out into the cold night air surrounded with animals, Christmas was born in a stable. Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. In the atmosphere of an outdoor walking trail, you and your guests will be part of live drama that is set during the Roman Empire. As decreed by Caesar, everyone must be counted in the census. As you make your way to Bethlehem, you will visit the field where shepherds received the angel’s message and news of the Messiah. Then visit the wise men as they journey in search of the New Born King. You too shall be counted. Reservations highly recommended. 334-578-4846 www.aneclecticministry.org

Annual Hometown Christmas Parade

December 2, 6:00pm Comer Street Alexander City, Al 35010 Join us as we light up the night, when Alexander

December 1916 Hills and Dales Drive LaGrange, Ga 30240 Experience our circa 1940’s, tinsel-laden Christmas tree, brilliant Poinsettias and other seasonal decorations during the holiday season. The Fuller E. Callaway family home and the visitor center will be decorated for the holidays this December, Tuesdays to Saturdays. Regular tour prices apply. Also offering wreath workshops, family tabletop luminaries workshop, mixed green Christmas wreath workshops and Children’s Christmas Celebration. 706-882-3242 www.hillsanddales.org

LaGrange Christmas Parade

December 5, 5:30pm 111 Bull Street LaGrange, Al 30241 The floats begin at 6:00pm. Start the holiday season off right with this spirited Troup County tradition. Each year hundreds of businesses, community groups, schools and churches create floats for the annual parade that makes its way through downtown city streets. Marching bands, live animals, clowns and a variety of novelty entries complete the festive environment. 706-844-8671 www.lagrangechamber.com

LaGrange Symphony Orchestra Concert “Sounds of Peace”

December 10, 7:30-9:00pm 301 Church Street LaGrange, Al 30240 We offer to you the gift of a variety of delightful seasonal classics and a traditional carol sing-along. Our festive journey ends with Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy in a thrilling collaboration with the Choral Society of West Georgia and LaGrange College’s collaborative pianist Andrew Harry 706-882-0662 www.lagrangesymphony.org

“Closed for the Holidays”

December 12-14 New Horizon Community Theatre, 411 West 8th Street West Point, Ga 31833 After a blizzard shuts down the roads on Christmas Eve eve, a motley crew of travelers find themselves stranded at the local community center. From the lovelorn drama teacher with a bus full of students, to the quarrelsome couple on the way to their wedding, to the overeager Sheriff ready for some real criminal action, everyone

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and festive decorations. Take a leisurely stroll, a brisk train ride or see the lights from atop the Zoofari Skylift Ride. Visit Santa, enjoy the live nightly entertainment and no winter’s night would be complete without some warming hot chocolate and fresh baked cookies. 334-625-4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com

Christmas Village at the Historic Langdale Mill

Weekends in December US Hwy 29 at Fob James Road Valley, Al Beginning the first weekend in December, experience the spirit of the season in Historic Valley. There is a life-size nativity scene in the meadow, the Madonna light-sculpture, and the Christmas Merry-go-Round that has given over 1,000,000 FREE rides to families. As you take a walk through history, you will be greeted with caroling and much more festive fun. Also, don’t miss the “A Cotton Mill Christmas” production at Langdale Theatre, as the local actors tell the history and stories of Valley, Al. 334-756-5290

www.cityofvalley.com

Montgomery 28th Annual Christmas Light Festival at the Montgomery Zoo ad on page 24

December 5-8, 12-25 The Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway Montgomery, Al 36110 See the Montgomery Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland sparkling with thousands of lights

Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents “All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914”

Thru December 30 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, Al 36117 A remarkable true story from the Western Front, Christmas, 1914. In a silence amid the combat, a soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Silent Night.” All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 relives an astounding moment in history when Allied troops and German soldiers laid down their arms to celebrate the holiday together, sharing food and drink, playing soccer, and singing carols. This dramatic retelling weaves together firsthand accounts of 30 World War I soldiers with patriotic tunes, trench songs, and Christmas carols. 800-841-4273 www.asf.net

Old Alabama Town Holiday Open House

1st Week of December 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, Al 36104 Our annual Holiday Open House, often the first week of December. We open up the Living Block and Ordeman House, and feature live holiday music, storytelling, costumed villagers, cookies and hot cider, pioneer tree ornaments for kids, and even photos with Father Christmas. Free to the public. 1-888-240-1850 www.landmarksfoundation.com

Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Open House and Tour

December 2, 9 and 16 1142 South Perry Street Montgomery, Al 36104 Each Monday before Christmas, the Candlelight Tour serves as an opportunity for the public to view the Governor’s Mansion holiday decor, enjoy live choir performances and sample Alabamamade goods at the gift shop. During the tours, rooms open to the public, which include the main entrance, dining room, sitting room, sun room and more, feature holiday decor by volunteer designers from around the state. 334-834-3022

14th Annual Interfaith Christmas Nativity Exhibit

December 4-8 3460 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, Al 36111 Help your family keep the true meaning of Christmas in their hearts from the start by attending this Community Celebration of the Birth of Jesus Christ. This spectacular event features nativities from around the world and special music by local performers. This display is sure to warm the hearts of the young and old alike. www.montgomerynativity.com

Messiah Sing-a-long with the Montgomery Chorale

December 5, 7:00-9:00pm Episcopal Church of the Ascension 315 Clanton Avenue Montgomery, Al 36104 Join the Montgomery Chorale in this community sing-a-long of Handel’s Messiah. This free community event. 334-265-3737 www.montgomerychorale.org

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Holidays on the Harriott

December 6-7, 13-14 and 20-21 Downtown Riverfront, 213 Commerce Street Montgomery, Al 36104 Full Holiday Meal, Live Entertainment and Cash Bar on the Riverboat. www.funinmontgomery.com

Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”

December 7-29 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, Al 36117 What happens when the rowdiest kids in town find out there are free snacks at Sunday school? They decide to audition for the annual Christmas pageant! The Herdman kids take over the church’s holiday production and insist on playing all the good parts. They’ve never heard the nativity story, and have no idea who Mary, Joseph, or the wise men are. It’s disgraceful! Silent night? Not a chance, but sometimes a little joyful noise is just what Christmastime needs 800-841-4273 www.asf.net

Montgomery Ballet presents the 44th Annual Performance of “Nutcracker”

December 13-15 Davis Theatre, 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, Al 36104 Join the Montgomery Ballet as it presents their annual performance of The Nutcracker. The Nutcracker Ballet is based on the story “The Nutcracker and the King of Mice” written by E.T.A. Hoffman. Although what is seen on the stage today is different in detail from the original story, the basic plot remains the same..the story of a young German girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince and a fierce battle against a Mouse King with seven heads. www.montgomeryballet.org

Millbrook/Wetumpka Christmas On the Coosa ad on page 17

December 14, 10am-6pm Gold Star Park, Ready St Wetumpka, Al 36092 Wetumpka’s Christmas on the Coosa continues to bring people from all over the state to enjoy Wetumpka’s family atmosphere and unique heritage. Called the “City of Natural Beauty” Wetumpka is a quaint, historic town nestled along the banks of the Coosa River and is home to the annual Christmas on the Coosa celebration. The event features activities and events for the whole family. The day-long Christmas on the Coosa celebration features a car show, children’s character breakfast, entertainment for children and a show case for local talent. The annual street parade features over 100 entries and passes along the area for arts & crafts vendors. The evening continues with a ski-in by Santa and the ends with a grand fireworks finale. 334-567-5147 www.cityofwetumpka.com

Christmas at Alabama Nature Center

December 8 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, Al 36054 Join us for our 11th annual Christmas at the Alabama Nature Center. Enjoy hayrides, Christmas crafts, decorating cookies, a movie special and much more! Learn how to create your own nature ornament, get pictures with Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

Santa, enjoy our Christmas movie special, and make sure to go on the hay ride! Christmas is always fun here at the ANC, we will have hot chocolate for sale and plenty of activities to keep you warm. This Christmas is sure to be filled with holiday fun at the NaturePlex! Bring your camera and take a picture with jolly Ol’ Saint Nick! 800-822-9453 www.alabamawildlife.org

Birmingham and North Christmas at the Cave

December 13-14 and 20-21 5181 DeSoto Caverns Parkway Childersburg, Al 35044 Come walk in a Winter “Underland” for a familyfun event for all ages. Will holiday treats, classic Christmas movies, caroler and sing-a-longs, as well as a special visit from St. Nicholas himself, Christmas at the Cave at the majestic DeSoto Caverns is the best way for your family spend the most wonderful time of the year. 256-378-7252 www.desotocavernspark.com

Sounds of the Season

December 15, 2:30pm Brock Recital Hall, Samford University Birmingham, Al 35222 Kick off the holidays with Sounds of the Season, a concert of favorites both sacred and secular. Featuring surprise guest artists and familiar faces, the concert will feature a variety of solo and ensemble performances to set the perfect mood for the holiday season. 205-322-6737 www.operabirmingham.org

Calera The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum’s North Pole Express

December 1, 6-8, 13-14 1919 9th Street Calera, Al 35040 “All Aboard” says the conductor, and your family’s journey begins to the North Pole! Through the dark night, the magical train makes its way to the top of the world! Upon arrival at the brilliantly decorated North Pole, Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves board the train to visit with your family and give each child a keepsake! Be sure to bring your camera to get a photo of your family with Santa and Mrs. Claus! You’ll enjoy chocolate milk and cookies, sing Christmas songs, and listen to a special Christmas Story! The North Pole Express will make lasting Christmas memories for you and your family! For even more fun, be sure to wear your pajamas! 205-668-3435

www.hodrrm.org

Santa Claus Special at The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

December 7, 14. 1919 9th Street Calera, Al 35040 Take a train ride filled with Christmas Cheer as you ride the Santa Special! Board our vintage train decorated for the season and take a train ride where Santa will visit with all the boys and girls! Talk with Santa and tell him what you would like for Christmas! Santa will have a treat for every boy and girl! Make sure to bring your camera to get a photo of all the sights and make a picture of your family with Santa! The Santa Special train ride lasts approximately 1 hour. Please arrive 1 hour prior to your departure time to pick up your tickets 205-668-3435 www.hodrrm.org

Atlanta Area Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park Thru February 23 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, Ga Snow tubing in GA? Yep, we have it! Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park is a winter wonderland of fun. With a 400-foot tubing hill and 2 moving sidewalks to take you back to the top, your Snow session will be packed with fun. Snow Mountain offers single tubes, double tubes, and family-sized tubes that can accommodate up to 8 guests at a time. New!!!! Galactic Snow Tubing! Experience LED Lights, Lasers, Music and more on all sessions starting 6pm and later. 800-401-2407 www.stonemountainpark.com

Stone Mountain Christmas

Thru January 5 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, Ga Have a Holly Jolly Christmas at Stone Mountain Park, where the true magic of the season is in the air. Enjoy the glow of more than two million lights, festive music and visits from some your favorite holiday characters. Start a new tradition and create memories that will last a lifetime for your kids...and you. Rudolph The Red-NosedReindeer 4-D! Skylights Spectacular: A Musical Walk-through Experience. Clarice the Reindeer joins Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer® and Bumble™ the Abominable Snow Monster at Rudolph’s Merry Little Meet and Greet. Kids of all ages can meet these heartwarming characters or catch them in the nightly Christmas parade! Enjoy live performances that are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. All aboard the Sing-along Train to hear your favorite Christmas tunes as well as the heartwarming story of the first Christmas in The Gift. Wander through the Wonderland Walkway, a dazzling tunnel of lights guiding you to the Snow Angel® Palace, where YOU are a part of the experience as we tell the story of Angelina the Snow Angel in A Wish For Snow. 800-401-2407 www.stonemountainpark.com

License to Chill Islands & Magical Night of Lights

Thru January 5 Lake Lanier Islands, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway Buford, Ga 30518 License to Chill Snow Island: Be transported to a wintery vacation state of mind on the fastest snow tubing hill in North America. Magical Nights of Lights: As you drive through our holiday inspired front gate, you crossover the magnificent snowflake bridge, through the 12 Days of Christmas, pass the illuminated diamond wonder light, under the blanket-lit bridge, all through the dancing Holiday House, Santa’s Workshop, Winter Carnival and more! Your magical night does not stop with the lights. Santa’s Village is a must for guests of all ages. Roast marshmallows on the bonfire, treat your tastes buds to delicious holiday treats, do some holiday shopping at Bucky’s Gift Shop or the many concessions that abound. Children of all ages will enjoy the many rides in our Winter Carnival. You will find Santa taking pictures and discussing holiday wish lists with children at Santa’s Workshop. 770-945-8787

www.lanierislands.com

Atlanta Children’s Christmas Parade December 7, 10:30am Peachtree and 16th Street Atlanta, Ga 30308 With floats, giant helium-filled balloons and

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marching bands, the Children’s Christmas Parade will be the largest holiday parade in the southeast. Thousands of spectators will be lined up along the streets eagerly awaiting the arrival of Santa and the official beginning of the holiday season in Atlanta. www.choa.org

South Alabama and Gulf Coast Magic Christmas in Lights

November 29-December 31 Bellingrath Gardens, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, Al 36582 In this Gulf Coast holiday tradition, guests stroll through a dazzling light display that features more than 1,100 set pieces, 3 million lights and 15 scenes throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. In addition, the Bellingrath Home is decorated in its holiday finery and enhanced with beautiful poinsettias. Magic Christmas in Lights includes nightly choral performances on the South Terrace of the Home on Sundays through Thursdays. In addition, guests may purchase hot chocolate on Live Oak Plaza to warm the heart and soul. 251-973-2217 | www.bellingrath.org

Artic Express Christmas Train

Weekends in December 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, Al 36576 Ride an authentic Steam Train through a wonderland of lights and decorations to the North Pole. Children visit with Santa in the Winter-wonderland barn and receive a free wooden toy. Lots of photo opportunities to enjoy! Free Refreshments served at the Train Station after your trip! Enjoy a ride on the Mini Train, a Sleigh/hay ride, and Inflatable on the playground. Also, Petting Zoo, Pony Ride, and Snowball Cannon are available for a slight fee. Try our Cafe’s new menu options, and a Gift Shop full of train items ideal for Christmas presents! 888-569-5337 www.waleswest.com

Christmas Through the Ages

December 14 51 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, Al 36528 Experience a Christmas of “Days Gone by!” This event is a living history Day for the whole family. Come and join the soldiers from the1700’s through the 1900’s and their Families as they celebrate a non-commercial Christmas. Our visiting children will have the chance to make a seashells ornament and other decorations. 251-861-6992

www.dauphinisland.org

Eufaula 14th Annual Eufaula’s Christmas Tour of Homes

December 7, 1:00-6:00pm Historic Downtown Eufaula Eufaula, Al 36027 Stroll through history and witness the magnificence of Eufaula’s finest homes aglow in holiday splendor. This delightful tour boasts lovely, unique homes decorated for Christmas as only Eufaulians can do. Experience Christmas as never before in some of the South’s finest homes! 888-383-2852 www.eufaulapilgrimage.com AOP

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FamilyCalendar

Saturday, November 23

Sunday, December 1

Wednesday, December 4

Parent & Child Workshop: Augmented Visionary Reality The Columbus Museum. Engage your imagination and expand your creativity as we create collages inspired by the work of artist Saya Woolfalk. Participants will go on a gallery exploration to gather inspiration before creating their own work in the Studio. Parent(s) or caretaker(s) must accompany child(ren) to this event. Please register for the number of people in your party, including parents/ caretakers and child(ren). Questions? Email jsouth@ columbusmuseum.com.

Toys for Tots 10K, 5K, 1 Mile Fun Run Wrights Mill Road Elementary School. A great way to start the holiday season with giving! All participants may run or walk any of the races, and all are asked to bring a new, unwrapped toy to be distributed to children in Lee County. This year’s race will once again start/finish at Wrights Mill Road Elementary school. www.runsignup.com

Super 7 State Football Championship Also Dec. 5 and 6. Jordan-Hare Stadium. The Auburn-Opelika area is proud to be the biannual host of the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s state championship football games. The event brings the best 14 high school football teams in the state of Alabama to face off for the title in their respective divisions. www.super7al.com.

Ellis Paul in Concert. The Sound Wall, Opelika (605 Ave. B, across the street from Auburn Bank.) Ellis Paul returns to the area for the first time in almost 20 years, a collaboration between Auburn’s Sundilla Concert Series and The Sound Wall in Opelika. Showtime will be 7:00, and admission at the door is $25. A limited number of $20 advance tickets are available at www. sundillamusic.com.

Sno-Pelika Courthouse Square. Join the Opelika Chamber and East Alabama Medical Center for Opelika’s Biggest Christmas Season Kick-Off Event ever! This event will include an inflatable snowglobe for pictures, a giant inflatable slide, a Reindog Parade for dogs and their pet owners, a Sounds of the Season Caroling Competition and a Giving Back Sleigh! The event will conclude with an official tree lighting! Kickoff the holiday season at this one of a kind event! This event is FREE FOR ALL! www.opelikachamber.com

Teen Kahoot! @ Columbus Museum The Columbus Museum. Grab your friends and head to the Museum for an afternoon of fun competition. Arrive early to receive clues to explore in the Museum that will help you find the correct answers once we start our trivia challenge! www. columbusmuseum.com

Friday, November 29 Christmas at Crossroads Alexander City. S great way to get out with the family and friends, do some shopping at the Holiday Bazaar on The Town Green, take a carriage ride, check off items on your Christmas list and, of course, let the kids visit with Santa. www.alabama.travel/festivalsand-events Football, Fans and Feathers Southeastern Raptor Center. 4-5 PM. Tickets are $5 per person and purchased upon entry or in advance by clicking visitingauburn.edu/raptor. No charge for children age three and under. The hour-long program begins at the center’s the 350-seat Edgar B. Carter Educational Amphitheater. Hawks, falcons, eagles and other birds of prey are free-flown from towers and around the amphitheater, enabling visitors to see these raptors flying close. www. auburn.edu/raptor. Come Home to the Corner Downtown Auburn. 6-9 PM. Football, fall, Friday... what’s not to love? Come home to the corner in downtown Auburn and enjoy live music and more during this entertainment district event each home football game Friday! www.downtownauburnonline.com

Saturday, November 30

Voctave: The Spirit of the Season Auburn United Methodist Church. Voctave’s a cappella renditions of Disney and Broadway hits brought them fame through social media, and they’re bringing that same vocal prowess to The Spirit of the Season, a collection of favorite holiday songs in a family-friendly setting. 3 PM. www.aumc.net

Monday, December 2 Daddy Daughter Date Night Ticket Go On Sale. The 31st annual Daddy Daughter Date Night is coming up! All dance nights will be held at the Clarion Inn & Suites on S. College Street. Daughters, dads, granddads, and uncles are invited to dance the night away and enjoy refreshments, door prizes, dance contests, keepsake photos, and an evening of memories. Special guests will also be in attendance! This year’s theme is “Mad Hatter”. Visit www. auburnalabama.org/parks to purchase your tickets starting at 8 a.m. on Dec. 2nd. Tickets are $35 for a father/daughter pair and $5 for each additional daughter.

A Lee-Scott Christmas

Also Dec. 3 and 4. Lee-Scott Academy. The event will feature a live nativity scene and begins at 6 PM each day. It is free and open to the public. www.lee-scott.org

Tuesday, December 3 Christmas Wreath Covington Rec Center. Opelika. Decorate wreaths with all your favorite things and hang on your door to display at Christmas. Ages 5-12 years. 3:30 PM. pdriver@opelika-al.gov

Small Business Saturday Downtown Opelika. Start your Christmas shopping with Small Business Saturday.

Christmas Handbells Concert Auburn United Methodist Church. As a part of our Christmas concert series at Auburn UMC, the handbell program is hosting their first Christmas concert at 6:30 PM in the Chapel. All six of our groups will play, with performers ranging from Kindergartners to retirees. The performance will include favorite sacred and secular pieces from the Christmas season, with fun arrangements for the whole family to enjoy. Join us as we prepare our hearts for the coming of our Savior! www. aumc.net

Annual Holiday Market at Columbus Museum The annual holiday market is back! Shop with local vendors and enjoy special promotions in the Museum shop — just in time for you to wrap up holiday shopping!

Opelika High School and Opelika Middle School Christmas Band Concert Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. Get into the holiday spirit with the OHS/OMS bands’ Christmas concert from 6:30-8:30 PM!

Young Eagles Day Columbus Airport, 3250 W. Britt David Road, Columbus, Ga. 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.

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

Thursday, December 5 The Christmas Ball presented by EAMC The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center. The night will consist of a champagne reception, silent auction, dinner, live auction and entertainment. www.eamc.org Hyundai of Auburn Christmas Bazaar Also Dec. 6 and 7. Take a trip to Hyundai of Auburn for their sixth annual Christmas Bazaar! The event will take place from 4-6 PM on Thursday, 1-6:30 PM on Friday and 9 a.m.-3 PM on Saturday. Visitors can enjoy three days of specialty shopping from vendors and the wide selection of cars at Hyundai of Auburn. There will also be drawings for door prizes. www.hyundaiofauburn.com Sushi Class at Resting Pulse Brewing Company Join the folks from Birmingham Sushi Classes at Red Pulse from 6:30-8:30 PM for a sushi-making class! www.birminghamsushiclasses.com

Friday, December 6 49th Annual Montgomery Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show Also Dec. 7 and 8. Garrett Coliseum. Adults $2 or weekend pass $3 Youths 18 and under FREE with student ID and paid adult admission. FREE parking FREE door prize ticket with each paid adult admission. (Must be present to win. Door prizes donated by the vendors.) $1 Wheel of Fortune for the kids and young at heart! Everyone that spins... Wins! See our website for a list of participating dealers. www. montgomerygemandmineralsociety.com State Farm Insurance Kathy Powell Pictures with Santa Join State Farm Insurance’s Kathy Powell and get a picture with Santa. Each time slot is 10 minutes and multiple photos will be taken. Photos will be emailed to participants within two to three days. The service is free, but the team asks participants to bring one unwrapped toy to donate to Toys for Tots. www.kathypowell.net

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FamilyCalendar AHSAA State Championship Swim and Dive Meet Also Dec. 7. James E. Martin Aquatics Center. Get your tickets in advance online: https://gofan.co/app/ school/AHSAA

Saturday, December 7 Opelika Christmas Parade Downtown. 10 AM. Floats will be decorated with fun tributes to the Victorian days according to the holiday season and all of its magical wonders. Visit www. opelikachamber.com for more information on how to participate in the parade, or call (334) 745-4861. Jingle Jog 5K and Santa Stroll Fun Run 7 AM, Downtown Auburn. The Jingle Jog 5k and Santa Stroll Fun Run are back in 2019 – so pull out those ugly sweaters again Auburn! If you would like to volunteer for this event, please contact us at activeauburn@auburnalabama.org. South’s BEST Robotics Competition Also Dec. 8. Auburn Campus. BEST stands for Boosting Engineering Science and Technology, and is a national program with fifty local competition sites in eighteen states. The mission of BEST is to inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through participation in a competitive robotics program that fosters knowledge, teamwork, and communication. Each year, middle and high school student teams are tasked with building a robot to compete against other schools. www.southsbest.org Breakfast with Santa Georgia Convention & Trade Center, Columbus. Make Breakfast with Santa a new family tradition! Enjoy a delicious breakfast provided by our extraordinary chefs here at the Columbus Convention and Trade Center, write a letter to Santa and hand-deliver it, enjoy holiday crafts and spend quality time with Ole’ St. Nick! www.columbustradecenter.com Santa On the Corner Also Dec. 8. Santa Claus is comin’ to town! Join the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association and the Lee County United Way for Santa on the Corner. Santa will be at Toomer’s Corner today from 12 - 4 PM and Sunday from 11 - 3. Photos with Santa are free with a requested donation to The United Way. Auburn University Methodist Church Christmas Market Auburn United Methodist Church from 8:30 - 1:00 PM. Guests will have the chance to shop art, crafts, food, decorations and more. www.aumc.net Breakfast with Santa at WWII Company Street National Infantry Museum, Columbus. Please join us and enjoy a light breakfast, with a vintage Santa Claus and holiday crafts in the Mess Hall on World War II Company Street. Bring your camera for pictures with the jolly old elf and the Kelly Zeroes. Two time slots available: 9-11 AM or 11-1 PM. www. nationalinfantrymuseum.org; $14 for children up to age 12; $5 for adults. The Harlem Globetrotters The Columbus Civic Center. This is more than a basketball game. You’ll be on your feet, out of

your seat, laughing until it hurts and loving every moment. www.harlemglobtrotters.com

eligible to perform in an AACT Young Performers Production. bfm0005@tigermail.auburn.edu

Scenic Day Hike at Chewacla State Park Enjoy the hidden beauty of Alabama State Parks with Outdoor Recreation. Join us for a leisurely day hike at Chewacla State Park as we explore hiking trails, waterfalls and more! The $15 registration fee includes a guide, park fees, a snack and transportation. Participants will meet at ODR before departure. Open to military ID cardholders only. To register, call 706-545-7978.

Tuesday, December 10

Sunday, December 8

Wednesday, December 11

Holiday Movie at The Plex Opelika SportsPlex. 6 PM. Free family friendly night. Come meet Santa, enjoy cookies and hot chocolate and watch How the Grinch Stole Christmas. www.opelika-al.gov

Sensory Visit with Santa Also Dec. 12. Shoppes at EastChase, Montgomery. The Shoppes at EastChase is making sure every child gets time with Santa by providing a Sensory Santa experience for those families with special needs children. The Sensory Santa Experience will offer families the opportunity to take photos with the following: - no background music or spotlights - no lines and additional time with Santa - outside of normal Santa photo hours. Photo packages range from $20 - $45. Places are limited and booking is essential. Book online here: https://www. theshoppesateastchase.com/event/sensory-santa/

Auburn Christmas Parade 2019 2 PM. Join the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association for the Auburn Christmas Parade. www.downtownauburnonline.com Columbus Holiday Tour of Homes 2019 This year will highlight the area that was once considered the “City Limits” of Columbus, Hilton Avenue. Tickets are $25 before the tour and $30 on the day of the tour. Receive an additional $5 off the cost of your ticket if you bring a new unwrapped children’s toy to be donated (Bring to the Rankin House to receive a discount before or any house the day of the tour). Children 12 and under are free. www.historiccolumbus.com Auburn Gingerbread Village Unveiling The Hotel at Auburn University. 2:00 PM. Come experience the largest Gingerbread Village in East Alabama in the conference center of the hotel. Over 10 Gingerbread Buildings are on display in the pre-function foyer for guests to admire. December 8-January 1. Winter Wonderfest Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Come celebrate the wonder of the season with us! Find inspiration in the festive decor, music, and treats as you make your way through the galleries. Create your own winterthemed art projects and enjoy making a memory in our merry photo booth. The Museum Store will be open for seasonal shopping. www.mmfa.org

ADORE A Christmas Musical

Lakeview Baptist Church. A Christmas Musical featuring our Celebration Choir & Orchestra. 6:007:30 PM. Free Admission. www.lakeviewbaptist.org 19th Annual Christmas Festival Auburn United Methodist Church. Each year, Christmas Festival is one of the largest musical productions in Lee County and this year will be no exception. It’s guaranteed to be a feast for the eyes and the ears with full professional orchestra, dramatic lighting effects, and the 100+ voice Festival Choir composed of members from our Chancel Choir which recently performed in Carnegie Hall in New York and Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. www. aumc.net

Monday, December 9 AACT Auditions for High School Musical, Jr. Also Dec. 10, 11, 12. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Announcing open auditions for AACT’s Young Performers Spring Musical. Auditions tips and link to sign up for a time slot at aburnact.org. After Graduation from high school, actors are no longer

Toys For Tots East Alabama Plastic Surgery. Bring a new, unwrapped toy to donate at East Alabama Plastic Surgery on Tuesday, December 10, and receive $50 off your scheduled injectable appointment! www.eaplasticsurgery.com

Thursday, December 12 Opelika High School and Opelika Middle School Christmas Choral Concert Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. Get into the holiday spirit with the OHS/OMS bands’ Christmas choral concert from 6:30-8:30 PM.

Friday, December 13 Butterfly Keeper for the Day Callaway Gardens. Come and be a Butterfly Keeper for a day! Learn how to care for butterflies, what they need to be healthy and happy, and help our keepers with the day-to-day operation at the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center. You’ll learn how to identify tropical butterflies and help release newlyemerged butterflies into our Conservatory. You’ll get to participate in the unpacking of a new shipment of butterflies and learn all about where they come from. Participants will also help feed the butterflies by preparing and setting out fruit baskets. And you’ll see what kinds of plants are important for the butterflies and why; and how we maintain a conservatory filled with tropical plants. www.callawaygardens.com

Saturday, December 14 Santa On the Corner Also Dec. 15. Toomer’s Corner. Join the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association and the Lee County United Way for Santa on the Corner. Santa will be at Toomer’s Corner on Saturday from 12 - 4 PM and Sunday from 11-3 PM. Photos with Santa are free with a requested donation to The United Way. Holiday Art Sale Join the Auburn Arts Association, Auburn Parks & Recreation and Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center for the 13th annual Holiday Art Sale from 9 AM - 4 PM! The event will take place at the Jan Depmsey Community Arts Center, the Harris Center and the Frank Brown Recreation Center. www.auburnarts.org

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FamilyCalendar Clara’s Tea Party Hosted by East Alabama Community Ballet Telfair B. Peet Theatre. Have a little one who isn’t ready to sit through a full performance? Join us at Clara’s Tea Party for a special presentation of Act II of The Nutcracker! Enjoy sweets and games, and have your picture taken with characters from the Land of the Sweets! www.eacballet.com Loveliest Village Christmas Tour Also Dec. 15. Join the Auburn Preservation League for the 13th annual Loveliest Village Christmas Tour of Homes and Buildings! The tour will take place from 10 AM-4 PM on Saturday and 1-4 PM on Sunday. Tickets can be purchased in advance at Behind the Glass, Ware Jewelers in downtown Auburn and The Flower Store. Tickets will also be available at the sites on tour days. The cost of tickets are $20 and the proceeds will be used for APL projects such as home preservation and restoration. www.auburnpreservation.com

December 15 Christmas Keyboards, Carols, Candlelight and Chocolate Auburn UMC is thrilled to host the second annual Keyboards, Carols, Candlelight and Chocolate concert featuring 40 flying fingers with the four piano artistry of pianists Sandra Watwood, Teresa Rhyne, John Norton, and Gary Klarenbeek. To hear four exceptional pianists on four grand pianos is a rare and special musical treat especially during the holiday season. Also featured in the program will be Pam Schroeder and Michelle Reed. Following the concert, a chocolate dessert buffet will be held in the church’s Mathison Lobby. 6:30 PM. www.aumc.net

Wednesday, December 18 Christmas Crafts Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Fun crafts for the holidays. 2:00 PM. Ages 6-10 years. pdriver@ opelika-al.gov

Saturday, December 21 Christmas In a Backpack Southview Assembly. We will be filling backpacks with all sorts of goodies for children in need in Alabama and Guyana, South America. We will also have a collection barrel for you to drop off toys and gifts to be distributed to boys and girls ages 5-16. Light refreshments will be served. We will also need volunteers on Friday, December 20 to transport our supplies from our storage unit and set up for Saturday’s event. backpackinternationalinc@gmail.com How to Make Homemade Snow The Columbus Museum. Join us during the winter break from school as we turn the Museum into a winter wonderland! Participants will discover a process to create their own “snow” and will be sent on a gallery scavenger hunt that will celebrate the season. Each participant will go home with a bag of the snow they created and a recipe to create your own snow at home! www.columbusmuseum.com Winter Trail Ramble on Longleaf Loop Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park, Pine Mountain,

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

Ga. Join Pine Mountain Trail Association guides for a winter woodland excursion, 6.9 moderate to strenuous miles. Geared towards ages 12 and up. Bring water, snacks, dress for the weather. Meet at the Park Office. Event is free. www.gastateparks.org/ FDRoosevelt

Tuesday, December 24 Live Nativity Auburn United Methodist Church. Join us for one of our favorite community events -- a Live Nativity! The nativity will be set up on the Front Lawn next to the entrance to the Auburn UMC Sanctuary, down from the corner of Gay Street and Magnolia Avenue. Free admission.4:00-7:00 PM. www.aumc.net Firetruck Santa Visits Trading Post Franklin D. Roosevelt State Park · Pine Mountain, Georgia. Pine Mountain Fire Department will be bringing Santa to the campground. Meet at the parking area in front of the Trading Post in the campground. Time may vary a little, but he will arrive with sirens blaring. www.gastateparks.org/ FDRoosevelt Christmas at Ariccia Also Dec. 25. Join us for Christmas at Ariccia! Enjoy a special menu or buffet to celebrate the season. www.aricciacucina.com

Tuesday, December 31 New Year’s Eve with Ariccia Enjoy a special menu. Afterwards, join the New Year’s Eve celebration inside Piccolo for live music and a complimentary champagne toast at midnight. www.aricciacucina.com The Fitz New Year’s Party The Fitzgerald Museum, Montgomery. We are excited to announce this once in a lifetime New Year’s Eve Event! Come ring in the new ‘20s with us at the Fitz! The Fitz New Year’s Party will have a tent and dance floor on the lawn with heaters. Inside, an open bar with a champagne toast at midnight, heavy hors d’oeuvres, one ticket to the photo booth, and a little Cole Porter on the Sayre family piano. www.thefitzgeraldmuseum.org NYE Live! New Year’s Eve Atlanta We’re ringing in the roaring 20’s for NYE Live! at Live! at the Battery for 2020. Get exclusive access to Sports & Social and PBR Atlanta and enjoy premium beverage packages and phenomenal buffets throughout the venue. All-inclusive food and beverage packages include entertainment with live music, swag bags, our famous Cash Drop, and midnight champagne toast featuring the Times Square Ball Drop on our 32-ft LED screen! Ticket prices will increase as we get closer to New Year’s Eve, so don’t wait! www.nye-live.com/atlanta New Year’s Celebration: Splashing ‘20s Georgia Aquarium. Your invited to ring in 2020 at downtown Atlanta’s most exciting New Year’s Eve party: Georgia Aquarium’s New Year’s Celebration – Splashing ’20s! We’re swimming into the new decade Gatsby style, so get dressed up and come ready to dine, dance and celebrate among whale sharks, manta rays, sea otters and more! www.georgiaaquarium.org

January Jan. 4: Monster Jam Triple Threat Series BJCC, Birmingham. Featuring 8 skilled Monster Jam® athletes, Birmingham fans will witness a fierce

battle for the championship with each Triple Threat Series competitor tearing up the dirt in customized high-powered vehicles. www.bjcc.org Jan. 7: Empower Women’s Leadership Breakfast The Hotel at Auburn University & Dixon Conference Center. Junior League of Lee County is pleased to present the EMPOWER Women’s Leadership Breakfast. Women from across Lee County are invited to join us as we hear from a dynamic key speaker and network with one and other. Participants will leave energized and empowered to be changemakers in our community. The Distinguished Woman of Service Awards will also be presented as part of the event. This event is open to the public. www. auhcc.org Jan. 18: Every Child Ready to Read© (ECRR) Parent Workshops Auburn Public Library. Parents and caregivers are their child’s first teachers. The Every Child Ready to Read© Workshop gives parent and caregivers the tools to develop early literacy skills in their children. Parents and caregivers will learn effective, affordable and fun ways to create an early literacy learning environment at home. Join us and learn how the Auburn Public Library can support you and your child on the path to reading. Jan. 29: The Siberian State Symphony Orchestra Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. Direct from Krasnoyarsk, Russia, the Siberian State Symphony Orchestra embarks on an 8 week U.S. tour commencing in January 2020. www.eastalabamaarts.org Jan. 31: Dorrance Dance Gogue Performing Arts Center. Founded in 2011 by artistic director and 2015 MacArthur Fellow Michelle Dorrance, Dorrance Dance is an awardwinning, New York City-based tap dance company whose exceptionally talented dancers and musicians deliver innovative, powerful performances at every show. Their performance at the Gogue Center will feature mixed repertoire, including the new work “Myelination.” www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Recurring/Multiple Dates Christmas with the Elves Dec. 4-22. Santa’s Elves will be hanging out at Dream Field Farms and are sure to whip up some adventures. They are known to lead activities such as wrapping presents, creating ornaments, making reindeer food, baking cookies and sharing about the wonders of the north pole. Santa may even show up driving a tractor! Second and third Saturday features a full breakfast buffet along with lots of silly fun (reservation only). Email info@ dreamfieldfarms.com to make a reservation or get more information. National Infantry Museum Kids’ Free Winter Film Fest Dec. 26-Jan. 5. Columbus. Looking for something to do with the kids during Winter Break? Admission is on a first come, first seated basis. Concessions will open prior to the first showing. Specials will be available, including a Snack Pack (popcorn, fruit snack, and 16 oz. drink) for $5. Movies include

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Calendar Dumbo, The Grinch, Mary Poppins Returns, Wonder Park and sensory sensitive screenings.

www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org

Columbus’ Market Days on Broadway Nov. 23, 30. Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28. Columbus. 9:00 AM - noon. Every Saturday morning, year-round in the 1000 & 1100 blocks of Broadway. Many local and organic farmers sell produce, along with soap vendors, home goods, jewelry vendors and baked goods. Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/ MarketDaysOnBroadway/ Second Saturday at Columbus Museum Dec. 14. Jan. 11. 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus. 10 AM - noon. Free Admission. Drop by the art cart with the kids 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 Look! @ Lunchtime Every second Tuesday. Columbus Museum. 12:15 PM. A collaborative viewing exercise and dialogue centered on works of art from the Museum’s permanent collection. Jonathan Frederick Walz, Ph.D., Director of Curatorial Affairs & Curator of American Art, will facilitate LOOK! discussions. Each month a new object will be explored. Free. www.columbusmuseum.com Preschool Program @ Jule Collins Museum Bring your preschooler (ages 3-5) to the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University for a fun and educational program designed especially for early learners. Each month, we’ll tackle a different theme and make unique connections between the art in the museum and your child’s every expanding world. Each session will also pair favorite children’s books with art works in the museum’s collection exhibitions to encourage language development as well as a hands-on component for increasing fine motor skills. Dec. 11 - The Colors of Our World. At this session, young artists will search for different colors in artworks and learn how to mix colors to create their very own masterpiece. Jule Collins Museum of Fine Arts. 10 AM and 11 AM. Michael’s Kids Club 10 AM. They craft, you shop! Kids 3 and up can enjoy hands on creativity. Sign up in store or online, or just drop in. Parent or guardian must remain on premises during the event. Dec. 7, Clay Pot Bell. Dec. 14, Reindeer Antlers. www.michaels.com Free Korean After-School Culture and Language Classes for Students Ongoing. Sponsored by Auburn University Office of Professional and Continuing Education. Free Korean language and culture classes for students in the 3rd12th grades! The classes are designed for beginners with no prior knowledge of the Korean language and will focus on developing both speaking and listening skills. Students will gain knowledge of vocabulary, phonetics and basic expressions as well as cultural aspects like K-pop and Korean games. The program offers classes for four different age groups, with each class tailored differently to meet the diverse developmental needs of students. Each class meets in a different location at varying times. www.auburn.edu/outreach Super Saturdays @ LaGrange Art Museum Every third Saturday of the month. LaGrange Art Museum. Drop in anytime from 1:00 – 4:00 PM. Take a tour of the current exhibit and then explore your creative side with an activity in the Center for Creative Learning classrooms. www. lagrangeartmuseum.org

Chick-fil-A Family Night at Tigertown Every Thursday night. Expressions of a BraveHeart Program Opelika Sportsplex. Braveheart is a fine arts program offering art, music and dance classes to youth and young adults with moderate to severe disabilities. Contact: John Huling • jhuling@opelika-al.gov. 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.

Library Events Decoration Swap Dec. 2. Are you tired of your Christmas decorations? Try our decoration swap! Drop your current decorations off at Cooper Library during open library hours on Saturday, November 30; Sunday, December 1; or by 4 PM on Monday, December 2. You will receive a voucher to redeem at the Swap on Monday, December 2 from 5-7 PM. Don’t have anything to swap and just want to shop? You can shop with cash and the proceeds will benefit the Friends of Cooper Library! library@opelika-al.gov Fa-La-La Festival Dec. 21. Opelika Public Library. 10 AM. Join Cooper Library Staff and explore the magic of Christmas at this fun, one day festival. Free. library@opelika-al.gov Baby Time Nov. 26. Dec. 3, 9, 17, 24, 31. 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. Tuesdays, 9:30-10:00 AM, 10:00-10:30 AM or 1:00-1:30 PM. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Toddler Time Nov. 27. Dec. 4, 11, 18, 25. 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. 9:3010:00 AM or 10:30-11:00 AM or 1:00-1:30 PM. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Preschool Time Nov. 28. Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26. 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. Wednesdays, 9:30-10:00 AM, 10:30-11:00 AM or 1:00-1:30 PM. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Story Time Nov. 25, 29. Dec. 2, 6, 9, 13, 16, 20, 23, 27, 30. Opelika Public Library. Join us for an interactive and engaging preschool program that is sure to delight and entertain. They won’t even know they are learning! Meets Mondays and Fridays. library@ opelika-al.gov. Saturday STEM Storytime Nov. 23, 30. Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28. 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. 10:0011:00 AM. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math This storytime will focus on these concepts in a fun, interactive, story-driven format Please note: Some activities may involve messy fun! (334) 501-3296. Brick Builders Club Nov. 30. Dec. 7, 14, 21, 28. Opelika Public Library. 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. Gamers Society Nov. 28. Dec. 5, 12, 19, 26. Auburn Public Library. 4:00 PM. It’s Game On at the Auburn Public Library The Programming Room will be open for Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokemon, and video games. Gamers must bring their own materials The library will provide materials for video game play. Games must be rated E, E10, or T; no rated M games. www.auburnalabama.org/library. The Auburn Public Library Puppet Troupe Dec. 18. Jan. 10. Join the Auburn Public Library Puppet Troupe for shows full of laughs, wonder and puppets sure to delight children of all ages! Each show will feature two performances for your entertainment. 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM. www. auburnalabama.org/library. Classic Christmas Movie Marathon Dec. 23. Cooper Library will begin showing classic and new classic movies at 10 AM. A new movie will start every two hours until the last movie starts at 6 PM. Join us for one or all! We’ll have popcorn and lemonade. Movie Schedule: 10 AM: Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer (30 min.) 11 AM: Charlie Brown Christmas (47 min.) 12 PM: A Muppet Christmas Carol (1hr. 29 min.) 2 PM: Elf (1 hr. 37 min.) 4 PM: Home Alone (1hr. 43 min.) 6 PM: The Santa Clause (1hr. 47 min.) library@opelika-al.gov

Performances Montrose Trio Dec. 3. Gogue Performing Arts Center. Formed in 2013, this collaboration between pianist Jon Kimura Parker, violinist Martin Beaver, and cellist Clive Greensmith stems from a long and fruitful relationship between pianist Parker and the Tokyo String Quartet. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Escape To Margaritaville

Dec. 4-5. Gogue Performing Arts Center. Welcome to Margaritaville, where people come to get away from it all—and stay to find something they never expected. A musical comedy featuring both original songs and your most-loved Jimmy Buffett classics, including “Fins,” “Volcano,” “Cheeseburger in Paradise” and many more. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Beautiful: The Carol King Musical

Dec. 4-5. RiverCenter For the Performing Arts. Tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit songwriting team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship

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with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history. Along the way, she made more than beautiful music, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation. www.rivercenter.org

Lafayette Theatre Company presents Young Singers of West Georgia: Christmas Memories Dec. 13-14. www.lsparts.org

sold out in years past. Grab your tickets early, as seating is limited to 50 each night. Bring your own beverage of choice. www.thesoundwallopelika.com

East Alabama Community Ballet presents

A Doublewide, Texas Christmas

Dec. 13-15. Telfair Peet Theatre. www.eacballet. com

Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker in Birmingham Dec. 28. Alabama Theatre. This Christmas give your family the gift of Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker! Step into a simpler time filled with sweet dreams and Christmas magic. With world-class artists, over 200 dazzling costumes, stunning sets, towering puppets and soaring birds, don’t miss your chance to ring in the holidays with this acclaimed Christmas extravaganza. 3 PM. www.alabama.theatre-birmingham.org

Dec. 5-8. Red Door Theatre. Spend the Yuletide in Doublewide and let this hilarious Jones Hope Wooten Comedy make your Christmas merry and bright… because there’s no place like a good ol’ Texas-sized mobile home for the holidays! Th/F/Sa @ 7:30 with optional pre-show, seated dinners, Sunday @ 2:30. (334) 738-8687; email - info@reddoortheatre.org

Cinderella - The New Broadway Musical Dec. 5-8, 12-15, 19-22. Springer Opera House. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists! www.springeroperahouse.org Late Night at the Museum: Christmastown:

A Holiday Noir

Dec. 6. The Columbus Museum. Enjoy a live production of Christmastown, a film-noir inspired holiday theatrical thriller. Hard-boiled detective Nick Holiday investigates some un-holiday like shenanigans taking place in Christmastown that sends him on a search for the truth about Big Red. Add a glamorous elf, a used-Christmas-tree salesman, a muckraking reporter, and a quickthinking cab driver, and you have what the Seattle Times calls the “best new holiday romp of the year!” After the show, take part in art-making, card games, gallery scavenger hunt, ugly sweater competition with prizes, and more! Enjoy music, food, and a cash bar specializing in holiday cocktails. Dress code is casual, ugly sweaters preferred! www. columbusmuseum.com Family Theater Presents The Best Christmas

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Dec. 6-7, 13-15, 20-21. www.familytheatre.org Lafayette Theatre Company presents Lafayette Ballet Company: The Nutcracker Dec. 6-8. www.lsparts.org Red Mountain Theatre Company presents

Holiday Spectacular

Dec. 6-22. Celebrate the holidays with a spectacular display of all your favorite music of the season! RMTC Conservatory students perform alongside Birmingham’s best local artists to warm your heart and set the stage for a magical holiday season! www.redmountaintheatre.org

Les Miserables

Dec. 7-12. BJCC, Birmingham. Cameron Mackintosh presents the new production of the Tony Award winning musical phenomenon, LES MISERABLES. Set against the backdrop of the 19th century France, LES MISERABLES tells an enthralling story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption, a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. www.bjcc.org East Alabama Arts presents The Ten Tenors,

Home for the Holidays

Dec. 10. Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. With festive favorites and modern holiday hits, you’ll want to bundle up and get to your seat on time! www.eastalabamaarts.org Dylan Leblanc Dec. 11. The Standard Deluxe, Waverly. Enjoy a show by Dylan LeBlanc at the Standard Deluxe begins at 7:30 PM in the Little House. www. standardeluxe.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

The Nutcracker

Back In Time Historical Holiday Celebration

Dinner Theater Benefit for the Lee County Historical Society Dec. 14. Pioneer Park/Lee County Historical Society, Loachapoka. Sponsored by Endorsed by Alabama200, sponsored by The Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities, and supported by Red Clay Brewery. The 4H History Seekers once again present Back in Time. Through our dinner event, we hope to bring awareness to our shared regional history and Alabama’s Bicentennial, as well as to lend support and visibility to the Lee County Historical Society. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org Variations presents The Nutcracker Dec. 14-15. Gogue Performing Arts Center. This classic holiday ballet will feature the company dancers of Variations Dance Studio alongside many community members playing hundreds of fun and exciting roles. Saturday shows will be at 2:00 and 7:00 PM and Sunday at 4:00 PM. For tickets, www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu Seth Walker Dec. 15. Enjoy an evening with Seth Walker at the Standard Deluxe. The show begins at 7:30 PM in the Little House. www.standarddeluxe.com VOICES8 Dec. 17. Gogue Performing Arts Center. The awardwinning vocal group VOCES8 has inspired audiences all over the world. With an impressive repertory of songs spanning early English choral pieces to modern jazz and pop tunes, the British vocal ensemble brings versatility and diverse musical expression to every one of their stirring live performances. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu Cirque de la Symphonie: Holiday Spectacular Dec. 17 - 18. Atlanta Symphony Hall. Experience jaw-dropping cirque acts (aerial flyers, acrobats, contortionists, dancers, jugglers, balancers, & strongmen) choreographed to classical masterpieces and popular contemporary music performed live by the Atlanta Symphony on the very same stage, www.cirquedelasymphonie.com A Winter’s Evening With Ryanhood Dec. 19. Pebble Hill, Auburn. Fresh off acclaimed appearances at The Sundilla Concert Series and the Opelika Songwriters Festival, Arizona duo Ryanhood return to town, this time to perform their seasonal A Winter’s Evening with Ryanhood. Admission will be $20 at the door, but $15 advance tickets are available at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, and online at www.sundillamusic.com. Martha’s Trouble Christmas: Presented by The Sound Wall Dec. 20 - 21. Join Rob & Jen for the annual A Martha’s Trouble Christmas 2019 as we celebrate the season with our renditions of your favorite Christmas tunes. This is a fan favorite event that has always

Dino-Light by Lightwire Theater Jan. 17. The Gogue Performing Arts Center. A menagerie of neon-lit creatures moves around a completely darkened stage, choreographed to exhilarating music and including the occasional neon sword fight—this is “Dino-Light” by Lightwire Theater. The New Orleans-based group uniquely blends dance with innovative costume design. They won truTV’s Fake Off and were a semi-finalist on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. www.goguecenter. auburn.edu

Twinkle Twinkle-est Little Star

Jan. 18, 22-26. Columbus State University’s Coca-Cola Space Science Center. Thousands of light years away, a little star feels left out of her star friends. She is not big enough or bright enough to play their games. She goes to her grandfather, the sun, who tells her that it doesn’t matter how big or bright you are, but how close you are to those you love. With closeness comes warmth, and with warmth there’s love. This show will be performed in the planetarium with an original coordinated show on the planetarium’s dome-projection screen. www. theatre.columbusstate.edu

Freckleface Strawberry

Jan. 23. Department of Theatre at Columbus State University. Based on the beloved best-selling book by celebrated actress, Julianne Moore, Freckleface Strawberry is a fun and touching family musical. Freckleface Strawberry will do anything to get rid of her freckles – from scrubbing them with soap to caking on makeup ... and even wearing a ski mask to school! With the help of her loveable schoolmates, including an amazingly talented ballerina, a cutie jock, a charming ditz, and a totally kooky teacher, Freckleface learns that everyone is different – and that’s what makes everyone special. www.theatre. columbusstate.edu

Support & Parenting Groups A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an allinclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-728-1162 or email: momofpnk@ gmail.com. Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-7058877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com. 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

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FamilyCalendar 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/.

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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.

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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 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. 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. 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). Food Allergy Support of East Alabama The Food Allergy Support of East Alabama group offers support through the sharing of information and resources. We are also working to increase awareness of food allergies in the state of Alabama. For more information, visit our website at www. foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334826-3082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net. GRACE - Post-Abortive Support Group Are you struggling with feelings of regret or sadness from having a pregnancy termination in your past?

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)334-257-3950 or (c)334-740-8780. Lee County Department of Human Resources Now recruiting foster/adoptive families. To learn more about fostering and adoption please call our office at 334-7371100. Please join us in this endeavor to help our foster children. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that are waiting to adopt are welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net for more information. 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 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. 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 Ms. Shanquetta France at Lee County Youth Development Center’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program. (334) 749-2296, Ext. 1812 - You can make an eternal difference in a child’s life! Therapeutic Rec: Discover Group Sept.-May. Opelika Sportplex. Discover is an opportunity for high-functioning, intellectually disabled citizens that are no longer enrolled in school. We will discover together through various activities and will travel once a month. Scheduled trips may change meeting times. There are costs associated with this program. Contact: John Huling • jhuling@opelika-al.gov Trinity UMC (Opelika) Mom’s Morning Out Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45–12. $15 per child, $5 each additional. Trinity United Methodist Church.

Sports Auburn Basketball Dec. 5, 19, 21, 29. Jan. 8, 11, 22, 25. Auburn Women’s Basketball Dec. 15, 28. Jan. 5, 9, 12, 23.

Please send your calendar events to Kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com! www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Ford v Ferrari

Last Christmas

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: C Alcohol / Drug Use: Lee Iacocca (Jon Bernthal) has an idea. The rising young Ford executive wants teenage Baby Boomers to perceive Ford cars as cool; not as stodgy family vehicles with declining market share. To reach this goal, Iacocca urges Henry Ford II (Tracy Letts) to develop a racing division that can compete in Europe. Ford is dismissive, until a personal insult from Italian racecar maker Enzo Ferrari (Remo Girone) stings his pride. Determined to best Ferrari at his own game, Ford gives Iacocca carte blanche to hire whomever he needs to defeat the Italian on the fabled LeMans course. In Iacocca’s mind, the best man for the job is Carroll Shelby (Matt Damon), the only American to have won at LeMans, now sidelined by a heart condition. And Shelby is convinced that the best driver is Ken Miles (Christian Bale), a stubborn, temperamental Englishman whose racing career was derailed by his military service in World War II. Shelby and Miles find themselves struggling on two fronts: first, to develop the fastest car in the world; and second, to survive the constant corporate infighting among the Ford executives. Even if you, like me, aren’t interested in cars, this movie offers drama between larger-than-life characters, excellent acting, a tense true story, a gut-punch of a plot twist, laugh out loud comedy, and heart-rending moments. With something for everyone, this pulse-pounding popcorn pic is sure to be one of the biggest hits of the year. The biggest drawback to this film is profanity, with approximately 40 uses of crude language, including a single sexual expletive. To counterbalance the swearing, Ford v Ferrari is chock full of positive themes.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: ASexual Content: BProfanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C Despite working in a Christmas shop in Covent Garden, Kate (Emilia Clarke) has lost any festive spirit she might have had. Spiraling into full fledged grinch-iness, she is losing herself in alcohol, casual sex, and a bottomless well of self-absorption. She’s run out of friends who are willing to lend her couch-space, she’s in a state of constant conflict with her mother and sister, and she can’t get over the emotional aftereffects of a serious health crisis. Then she meets Tom (Henry Golding), a handsome stranger who treats her with empathy instead of judgment. “Look up,” he tells her. As she takes his advice, she begins to rise above her despair. Last Christmas is a difficult film to review because it turns on a plot twist I can’t describe without ruining the show for you. I also can’t share my reaction to it for the same reason. Suffice it to say, that even though this movie sounds like a typical rom-com, it’s anything but... Compared to standard genre fare, Last Christmas stacks up well. It’s blessed with some outstanding actors. Along with good acting, this movie is packed full of positive messages tied up in sparkling ribbon. The biggest gift this film gives parents is its relative lack of negative content. Although Kate drinks heavily to deal with her painful emotions, her alcohol use is not glamorized. Most surprisingly for a rom-com, there is no explicit nudity or sexual content. Although Kate has some one night stands, no sexual activity is seen, only implied. Good points aside, this isn’t a flawless film. The pacing drags at times, there are some cheesy moments. Still, while Last Christmas might not be the perfect gift under the tree, it’s far better than a lump of coal.

Arctic Dogs

A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A Mail room clerk Swifty (voiced by Jeremy Renner) has a dream: to become a Top Dog, a star courier with the Arctic Blast Delivery Service. There’s just one problem: Swifty is a fox, not a dog. Feeling trapped in his dead end job, Swifty decides to prove his mettle so he steals a sled and heads out to develop a package. But this delivery is more than Swifty bargained for, as he learns when he winds up in the sights of evil villain Otto Von Walrus (voiced by John Cleese). Can a little fox defeat a supervillain whose dastardly plan will destroy the earth as we know it? There’s not much doubt about the answer to this question. Of course, Swifty and his friends will triumph. This is a kids’ movie, after all. The critters aren’t going to wind up dead in a snowy wasteland. The real question is whether the journey to this happy ending is worth taking. For adults, the answer is no. The predictable story line feels like a great first draft that needed a bit more polish and the jokes are aimed at the under-twelve crowd. Arctic Dogs is the kind of film that leaves adults longing for their phones and a round of Candy Crush to fend off the boredom. For young audiences, Arctic Dogs is lots of fun. I brought two of my sons to the movie and they laughed out loud at the corny jokes and slapstick physical comedy. And, on the bright side, this production serves up some positive themes along with the cheesy jokes. The movie is pleasant and harmless but not worth the ticket price at the local multiplex. Wait until it comes out online or on DVD and enjoy it from your couch. If you’re going to nap during a movie, you might as well do it in the comfort of your home. Auburn Opelika Parents I December 2019

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: BSexual Content: A Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood is not the movie I expected. It is not a biopic of Fred Rogers, it’s not a happy little movie for kids, it’s not a tribute to children’s television. Instead, it uses the format of an episode of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood to introduce us to Lloyd Vogel. I was skeptical that setting up a television episode as a narrative frame for a feature film would work, but it does. Mr. Rogers (played by Tom Hanks) sings his welcome song, puts on his running shoes, shows a picture of his friend, Lloyd, and then plays a clip about magazines on Picture Picture. When the story changes locations, the camera zooms around model buildings as toy cars and planes move from set to set. It sounds odd, but it is strangely effective in moving us from Lloyd’s world to Mr. Rogers’ world. The journey between their worlds is not just physical. The power of this film comes from Vogel’s voyage into Mr. Rogers’ life. The cynical writer is initially convinced that Fred Rogers can’t really be as good as he seems; he must be hiding something. He is bemused by the man’s all-encompassing empathy, his patient acceptance of others, and his sincere humility. Given the emotional issues in this movie, A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood is not a movie for children. Not because of content issues – there are no serious problems here – but because this is a movie aimed at adults. There’s an emotional depth that adults will find deeply moving, not just in the ability of one man to change, but in the power of another man’s example and legacy. 52

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“Alabama’s High School ”

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NOW Alabama 9th & 10th Graders Can Apply for Fall 2020 at www.asms.net

FREE

TUITION, ROOM, AND BOARD

ASMS is a public residential high school for academically talented sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in mathematics, science, and humanities. Find out how the Alabama School of Math and Science can lead you on a path to success. Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! While being surrounded by likeminded individuals who share a desire to learn, ASMS students have access to hands-on, experiential learning focused on research and collaboration. Students take a variety of college-level courses in Math, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Computer Science, History, English, Communication, Physical Education, and Fine Arts. Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.2100.

• Early College Experience • Dedicated Instructors • Diverse Community • Leadership Opportunities • Experiential Learning

Visit our campus for

ASMS DAY Saturday, Nov. 16 or Dec. 7. Register to visit at www.asms.net

ADVANCED ACCREDITED

I wish I could see the board instead of trying to read through your vape cloud. - Sarah, 8th Grade

For more information visit AlabamaHealthyTeens.com