Auburn - Opelika Parents December 2022

What You Can

What are you most excited about this holiday season? Is it the bright lights adorning your Christ mas tree? How about the parades down Main Street with Santa riding his sleigh into town? Maybe this year, you are looking forward to taking your children to the holiday production of The Nutcracker. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and with it comes a lot of planning, decorating, shopping, and celebrat ing. The days can fill up with your to-do list as you try to make everything glow and feel festive, and somehow take it in and enjoy the season too. For me, the holiday gift-giving can become a source of stress that makes the season feel not so merry or bright. With so many friends and family members on the gift list, it can quickly become a daunting task to play Mrs. Claus at my house. Some gifts can be easy to decide on; others can feel like you’re giving the same old go-to gifts.

In this holiday edition of Auburn Opelika Parents, take a moment to read our feature, 7 Experience Gifts to Give Kids This Season. It’s as if the author read my mind and delivered this gift, wrapped up in a glittery, green bow, for me! As the years and holidays have gone by, I have slowly moved away from a Christmas tree with gifts overflowing the living room to giving my family experiences as their gifts. When my children were younger, I would surprise them with a trolley ride through the lights at Callaway Gardens or a unique experience where the family would learn a new hobby together, like gingerbread house making. As they grew up, those experi ences expanded to a family vacation to Disney World and even spring break trips to somewhere warm with turquoise waters. I have always preferred making memories over giving more gifts and having more things that were probably not needed to begin with. The author has some great ideas to try if you want to gift an experience this Christmas. She suggests creating a monthly gift like a movie night or afternoon of bowling, so your kids could have experiences close to home and throughout the year. Or, pick a vacation spot that would make those memories in the mountains or by the shore last forever. Another great idea is gifting your kids a year of classes like drum lessons or painting and ceramics. Maybe your children have been interested in going to a summer camp and giving them a week at camp as a Christmas gift would give them something to look forward to. The best part is that gifting an ex perience can be small or as elaborate as you can imagine. You might find that this becomes a holiday tradition for your family too.

This Christmas, my family will celebrate the season on Mickey’s Main Street with Disney princesses and Star Wars heroes. It has become one of our favorite holiday traditions, and we will make family memories to last a lifetime. So, whether your holi day abounds with traditional gifts around the tree or something out-of-the-box this year, I wish you a special December with your family and friends. From one parent to another, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

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.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2022 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.

MERRY & bright

CHRISTMAS DECORATIONS

Nov. 26 – Jan. 4

Please come visit, take photos and tag with #MyOpelikaChristmas

HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE

Nov. 13 • Noon – 5 p.m. Opelika Main Street

SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY

Nov. 26 – Normal Shopping Hours

Opelika Main Street

OPELIKA’S VERY MERRY STROLL

Dec. 1 • 6 – 7:30 p.m. Lighting at 6:30 Runs thru Dec. 31 Friends of the Opelika Library

SNO*PELIKA, PARADE & TREE LIGHTING Dec. 2 Parade begins at 5 p.m.

Opelika Chamber of Commerce Rain Date Dec. 3, 5 p.m.

OPELIKA EVENTS

FAMILY MOVIE & CRAFTERNOON

Dec. 3 • 2 p.m.

Movie: Elf Opelika Public Library

OHS/OMS HOLIDAY CHORAL CONCERT

Dec. 6 • 6 p.m.

Opelika Center for Performing Arts

REINDEER EXPRESS & CHRISTMAS MARKET Dec. 8-10 • 5 - 8 p.m.

Opelika Parks & Recreation

COLLINWOOD LUMINARIES Dec. 9 • 5-9 pm

RAIN DATE: Dec.10 • 5-9 pm.

CHRISTMAS IN A RAILROAD TOWN

Dec. 9 • 6 – 9 p.m.

Opelika Main Street

VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH TOUR

Dec. 9-13

Walking Tour – Dec. 10 • 6-9 p.m.

Driving Tour – Dec. 9, 11, 12, 13

Bike Tour – Dec. 10. • 10 a.m. Carriage Rides – Dec. 11-13

OHS/OMS CHRISTMAS BAND CONCERT

Dec. 13 • 7 p.m.

Opelika Center for Performing Arts

CHRISTMAS MOVIE AT THE PLEX Dec. 16 • 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Opelika Parks & Recreation Sportsplex

Movie: The Grinch

FA LA LA FEST Dec. 17 • 10 a.m. – Noon

Opelika Public Library

CHRISTMAS MOVIE MARATHON

Dec. 23 • Starts at 10 a.m.

Opelika Public Library

by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Control What You Can

My husband and I recently watched Summer Rental, a 1985 movie about a family on vacation. We noticed a stark difference be tween the behavior of the children in this older movie and the behavior of children in more recent productions. The children in “Summer Rental” were more realistic. They talked too much but could entertain themselves without elec tronics, complained, and argued with one another. Children in current family movies are often depicted as quiet, rational, and glued to devices. The difference between the parents was also drastic. The parents from the 80s movie were in control and demanded respect. Unfortunately, modern media often displays weak parents who care more about making their children happy than about raising productive, healthy adults. It was shocking to see what I observe in my practice daily displayed on the screen.

I often speak with pediatricians, their nurses, and other mental health professionals about the pattern we are all seeing of parents looking for a medical diagnosis instead of simply accepting their responsibility and the

reality of parenting. Unfortunately, many fac tors play into the epidemic that Leonard Sax, MD refers to as “The Collapse of Parenting.”

One factor you may not be aware of is that drug companies are profiting from misrepre senting typical childlike behavior as a medical problem. For example, when I was in graduate school, a bipolar disorder diagno sis required episodes of depres sion and mania to last for days (at least). In the mid-1990s, a group of Harvard researchers success fully argued that bipolar disorder in children was different because the cycles lasted only minutes. Accord ing to their research, children who were sad one minute and happy the next were “abnormal,” which led to a forty fold increase in the prescriptions of Resperdal and Seroquel. When the research team was investigated, it was determined they were paid $4 million by the companies that produced these drugs.

There is an epidemic of parents not owning up to the responsibility of raising chil dren well. Instead of learning how to parent effectively and creating environments that set children up for success, some are looking for excuses, explanations, and accommodations.

How do we fix this? We empower parents to control what they can. The research consis tently reveals that food, sleep, and media significantly impact behavior. You have control of these things. Your children may not like the limits you set, but this is YOUR responsibility.

1. Feed them healthy foods. I always ask interns to notice any commonalities between problem behaviors and nutrition. After only a day or two of doing intakes, every intern has reported that children with the most significant behavior problems only eat highly processed foods full of carbohydrates. These foods spike blood sugar, causing irritability.

2. Ensure they get 10 to 12 hours of sleep each night. A lack of sleep creates symptoms consistent with ADHD and several other diagnoses. Keep bedrooms free of toys and electronics, create consistent bedtime routines, and use sound machines. If you have done everything you can to help your child sleep and nothing works, discuss it with your pediatrician.

3. Place strong limits on video games and handheld media. A growing body of evidence reveals how detrimental these devices are to brain development. Also, these devices limit social interactions and learning experi ences. It is important for children to be bored, observe their environments, and communicate constantly with the people around them.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of differ ent disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

Opelika’s Very

Merry Stroll: December 1-31

Get in the holiday spirit with a walk through Opelika’s Very Merry Stroll, a holiday showcase made of 25 locally decorated live Christmas trees. The Tree Lighting is on December 1 at 6:30 p.m. at the Opelika Public Library, 1100 Glenn Street. Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a cup of hot cocoa courtesy of the Opelika Police Department.

Every evening the trees light up Library Park from dusk until 9 p.m. Sponsored by Opelika Library Friends, Opelika Public Library, City of Opelika. 334.705.5380.

A Martha’s Trouble Christmas

Join Martha’s Trouble, at The Sound Wall, Opelika, for two nights in December 9th and 10th, as we celebrate the season with our renditions of your favorite Christmas tunes. Doors open at 7:00 p.m. and the show will begin at 7:30 p.m. This is a bring-you-own-beverage event. To purchase your tickets, visit www.freshtix.com/events/amarthas-trouble-christmas

Fantasy In Lights Callaway Gardens

This season, experience the NEW Celebration Lake, a floating spectacular featuring 30 dancing trees honoring 30 years of Fantasy In Lights! Surround your family with Christmas cheer when you walk, drive and celebrate the bigger and brighter Fantasy In Lights, one of National Geographic’s Top 10 Light Displays in the World! Step out of your car and into the All-New Cal laway Christmas Village! The fun continues with our classic drive-through experience, now featuring an enchanting Tunnel of Lights! Journey through the beloved seven-mile Fantasy In Lights Enchanted Forest, where festive music fills the air and the mesmerizing Magical Field of Lights returns to delight your family for another year. Visit www.callawaygardens.com.

Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express

The Opelika Parks and Recreation Department is hosting the Rocky Brook Reindeer Express December 10-12, 5:00-8:00pm, in the Municipal Park (Mon key Park). Train rides will be $2 per person, cash only, and will take you through stunning Christmas scenes with thousands of lights sure to put you in the Holiday mood! There will be a Christmas Market full of handmade items created by local artists and community members. To add to the Holiday entertain ment, local choirs and performance groups will be there each night, and topping it all off, Santa Claus will be in attendance for free Santa visits and pictures with children. Concessions will be sold by the Opelika Band Boosters including hamburgers, hotdogs, hot chocolate, and other items. Concessions will be cash only. www. opelika-al.gov/718/Rocky-Brook-Rocket-Reindeer-Express

Brunch with Santa at Auburn Marriott Opelika at Grand National

Be a special guest for the annual brunch with Santa event at The Marriott Resort & Spa! There will be a delicious brunch, children’s activities, train rides through the resort, pictures with Santa, and a holiday-themed movie. December 9 with seating times at 10:00 a.m. & 12:00 p.m. To make reservations please call 334-737-2117.

Noon’s Day Eve

Come ring in the New Year a little early with our Noon’s Year Eve Celebration at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. This family-friendly event will feature a hike through our woods culminating with a special toast with sparklers to ring in the new year at 12:00pm! Meet at the covered pavilion. Event will be canceled if there is rain or inclement weather. 11 a.m.- 12 p.m. at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn. (334) 844-8091; natureeducation@auburn.edu

Daddy Daughter Date Night Tickets On Sale: December 5

The 33rd annual Daddy Daughter Date Night is coming up! Tickets will go on sale Monday, December 5th, 2022. All dance nights will be held at the Auburn Junior High School Fieldhouse Gym. 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 memo ries. Special guests will also be in attendance! This year’s theme is “Magic in the Air”. Visit www.auburnalabama.org/parks to purchase your tickets starting at 8 a.m. on December. 5th. Make sure you have a MyRec account made. Tickets are $35 for a father/daughter pair and $5 for each additional daughter.

Food Truck Friday Downtown Opelika

Spend your first and third Friday of every month, where you can enjoy dinner and drinks from downtown restaurants, bars & breweries, and up to five different food truck part ners each week. Enjoy your brews, bites, and beautiful downtown Ope lika. Check out the Opelika Chamber of Commerce online to find out who will be parked where, and what’s on the menu! www.facebook.com/opelika.chamber

Auburn Gingerbread Village

Come experience the largest Ginger bread Village in East Alabama inside the conference center of the Hotel at Auburn University, 241 South College Street, Auburn. Over 10 Gingerbread Buildings are on display in the pre-function foyer for guests to admire. The Gingerbread Village will be unveiled right after the Auburn Christmas Parade and remains on display throughout the month of December. www.auhcc.com/holiday.htm

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Cornerstone Family Chiropractic

Expect Miracles!

“Expect miracles!” This epigram, amongst many other concise inspirational quotes, is written along one of the hall ways at Palmer College of Chiropractic, reminding students they will be a part of changing someone’s life forever. In prac tice, we’ve seen those who were taking 40 different medications get to the point where they did not need them anymore. We’ve seen pregnant mothers with ex cruciating back pain improve immensely. We’ve seen babies who only turned their head in one direction start turning their heads in both directions. From an average of three seizures a week to one seizure every six months or blurred vision becoming clear, anyone can see that “The power that made the body…” can be un locked to allow “…heals the body.”

More research is showing a preva lence of Vertebral Subluxation in the popu lation. A study currently being conducted at Emory University found a prevalence of Vertebral Subluxation in 79% in its sizable patient population. This naturally leads one to ask, “What is a ‘Vertebral Subluxation?’”

A “Vertebra” is one of the 33 bones that make up your spine. Each of these vertebrae houses and supports the nervous system, the brain, spinal cord,

and nerves that control the innervation of all other body systems. When you walk, when your heart beats, when you taste then digest food, or smell the roses, your nervous system empowers these functions (and more) to work and work well. It is good that the most important system in our body has such a structure for protection.

A “Subluxation” is a structural mis position on a bone’s joint. The Journal of Orthopedics and Rheumatology defines Vertebral Subluxation as “a condition of the spine where a vertebra has lost its correct juxtaposition [bone alignment] to the extent of disrupting the nervous system function.” Obviously, no one wants this constant stress on the most important region of the body. Based on this, measur ing nerve function and spinal structure is crucial to a chiropractor to find Vertebral Subluxation.

If neurological stress is apparent, digi tal x-ray is the common low-radiation, ra diological technology used to evaluate the spinal structures with clarity and find the best way to adjust segments of interest. This approach to detecting and treating Vertebral Subluxation, confirming a func tional stress in the nervous system and a relevant structural vertebral misalignment,

has led to many “miracle” stories, where a chiropractic correction was all that was needed to get back to a healthy normal. This is not always the case, as there are many important considerations to achieve optimal health, such as balanced exer cise, proper nutrition, loving relationships, quality sleep and much more. And not taking active steps in these areas only delays restoring optimal health. Nonethe less, research is pointing to chiropractic as needed to promote healthy nervous system function and possibly even play a role in preventing the development of sev eral complex neurodegenerative diseases.

If you have never experienced chiro practic care before, “Chiropractic is health in surance. Premiums small. Dividends large.”

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

Autauga County Schools

Auburn Classical Academy Built Torpedoes

Auburn Classical Academy’s 7th grade class recently built balloon torpedoes after learning about one of its first uses by the Japanese Navy. They students constructed them and then released them!

Trinity Christian Offers Music Classes

Music is important in the development of a child’s thinking as well as fine motor skills. At Trinity, we believe it is important to offer music classes that will build upon each other as students progress from one grade to another. Whether the performer, or the listener, we strive to foster a love and appreciation of music. Praise Him with trumpet sound; praise Him with lute and harp! Psalms 150:3

Fall Fest Fun at LSA

The PTO at LSA put on an AMAZING Fall Festival! Thanks so much to all our volunteers, Lulu’s Bakery And Catering, the LSA Band for selling food, Aubie and the Auburn cheerleaders, all those who helped with rides and all our families who made for such a fun day. It was a day full of fellowship with all of those in our great school community! We appreciate all of you so much. Happy Fall!!

Opelika City Celebrates Red Ribbon Week

We had so much fun dressing up for Red Ribbon Week! Special thanks to the Opelika Police Department, McGruff, and Opelika High School football players, cheerleaders, and band members for visiting our elementary schools.

TCS Encourages Students to Reading

Our God expresses Himself to us through words, therefore reading helps us to embrace who God made us to be. Reading also ignites our imaginative capabilities that reflect our Creator. Printed text encourages the growth of linear thinking which is essential for reasoned opinions, wrestling with unfamiliar ideas, and persuading others. In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. John 1:1

Learning About Communities at Lee Scott Academy

Our first graders have been learning all about communities in their classrooms lately! What better way to see a community in action than to visit Downtown Auburn?!Students visited the city fire house, the Auburn Bank and saw the true inner workings of both. They visited Mayor Anders and got to pray for him at City Hall! After that, they got to visit Toomer’s Drug Store & the Auburn Popcorn Company for some sweet treats before visiting Auburn Oil Booksellers! The day was capped off with a special pep rally just for Lee-Scott 1st Graders on Samford Lawn with Auburn University Cheerleaders! Seeing our community in action certainly helped us remember all the things we’ve been learning inside our classrooms with a visual. Thanks for having us, City of Auburn!

Autauga County Schools

OHS Participates in Fair

Opelika High School students had an amazing day at the Made in Opelika Career Fair! Thank you to all of the businesses that participated.

AHS’s Robotics Team 36830W

Southeastern Center of Robotics Education recently hosted the Spooky VEX on the Plains Robotics competition that was held at Auburn University. Auburn High School’s Team 36830W won the overall first place trophy against 40 other Alabama high school teams. Winner, Samantha Korac drove into the final round and named tournament champions! This team now advances straight to the state competition in February. Congratulations on building and driving your robot to the winner’s circle.

Email School News to Lynn@mobilebayparents.com.

ACA’s Kindergartners

Visit the Pumpkin Patch

Auburn Classical Academy’s Kindergarten class took a field trip to a local pumpkin patch! The students and parents had so much fun on their hayride and picking out their own pumpkin. Pictured are Trey Duncan and

Fall on the Farm for Lee-Scott Academy Pre-K

Pre-K friends got to experience the Pumpkin Patch with their friends & parents at Rocky Top Farms! They enjoyed learning about how pumpkins grow, the parts of a pumpkin, and, best of all, picking out the perfect pumpkin for our little hands. Learning about farm animals was part of the fun too! There were so many activities to participate in such as the corn crib, the petting zoo filled with pigs, chickens, and goats, jumpy inflatables for our energetic little people, a musical playground, a wagon ride around the farm & many fun games. Beautiful weather, learning about the farm, petting farm animals and picking out our own special pumpkins made for an absolutely perfect day!

Autauga County Schools

Congratulations to OHS Band

Congratulations to the Opelika High School Spirit of the South Band on earning superior ratings this weekend at the Sound of the County Invitational competition at Harris County High School in Hamilton, GA! The OHS Band, Majorettes, Color Guard, Dance Line, Front Ensemble, Battery, and Drum Major earned superior ratings. But there’s more, they also won:

-Best in Class AAA Majorettes

-Best in Class AAA Color Guard

-Best in Class AAA Front Ensemble Percussion

-Best in Class AAA Battery Percussion

-Best in Class AAA Drum Major And...

-BEST IN CLASS AAA BAND!

The OHS SOTS scored second place overall out of 13 bands. We are so proud of the Spirit of the South!

ACS Sock Hop and Soda Pop

Lee County Family Court

Judge Mike Fellows honored two Auburn City Schools students. Tyler Hufstedler, a sixth grader at J.F. Drake Middle School, was nominated by Mrs. Jenna Chapman and the Cosmic Cat teachers for being genuine and kind!

“He treats his classmates and teachers with respect and is engaging and polite. When speaking with the mother of another student, she commented to me that she saw Tyler out in Auburn and that he approached her, introduced himself to her, and stated that he was her child’s classmate. The mother was very impressed by his manners, and I am impressed by them too!” - Mrs. Jenna Chapman.

“Tyler is very personable and gets along with everyone, including adults. He is always respectful and positive each day. His positivity shows in his schoolwork and personal life. He is respected by his peers, and I wish I had a classroom full of Tylers!” - Mrs. Tonya Mabson. “Tyler is always willing to step in and help not only his peers, but his teachers too. He has a kind heart and models what a Cosmic Cat should look like.” - Mrs. Mason White.“Tyler is a very helpful, respectful young man. He works diligently on each assignment, and he is a friend to all. His positive attitude is a light on the Cosmic Cat team, and he continually sets a great example for his peers.” - Mrs. Allison Parsons.

Sawyer Lorton, a seventh grader at East Samford School, was nominated by Mr. Logan Cook for going above and beyond to be a great student, leader, and friend to all! “He volunteers to help out whenever needed, and he never complains about anything! When we have substitutes or new students, he always speaks to them and helps them feel welcomed. In the classroom, he is always top of the class in academics, as well! I cannot think of anyone more deserving of this recognition than Sawyer!” – Mr. Logan Cook.

In celebration of the 50th day of school, Auburn City Schools, and several of our younger students celebrated the end of the first quarter by traveling back in time to the 1950s with their fashion and themed lessons! Complete with rolledup pant-legs, poodle skirts, and slicked-back hair, students learned about root beer floats, Hot Tamales candies, and how to do dances like the Jitterbug. Auburn City Schools celebrates the extra time and effort teachers and administrators put into making school fun and memorable for students!

Trinity Christian Hosted Annual Fall Fest

This year’s Fall Family Fun Night celebrating our 45th year was enjoyed by all! Students and their families enjoyed an evening of games, food and fellowship. Behold, how good and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity! Psalms 133:1

Acorn Hunting at Lee

Scott Academy

Look at the size of these acorns! During the month of October, 5th grade science students were given the challenge to find the LARGEST acorns while out in nature. On October 31st, winners were announced and prize packages awarded! Congratulations and well done to Shepherd Cumbie, Harper Gilbert, Ellis Johnson, Eliana Kim, Tory Parsons, Smith Sawyer, Michelle Simmons, and Jackson Wheeles.

Helping navigate the mental health system for teens and children.

Services are FREE and confidential. Services provided by phone are not medical advice and should not be considered as such.

Services are provided via telephone by licensed mental health professionals who recommend the most appropriate mental health resources.

PIRC is available seven days a week, from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.

PIRC is NOT a crisis or suicide hotline. Call for mental health resources.

The PIRC is generously supported by funding from the Anne B. LaRussa Foundation of Hope, United Way of Central Alabama, the Daniel Foundation of Alabama and the Walker Area Community Foundation.

celebrated Dot Day with fun activities inspired by Peter H. Reynold’s book The Dot, including “snowball” battles, painting dot murals, and creating dot figures from their imaginations with marshmallows and toothpicks! The Dot is the story of a caring teacher who dares a doubting student to trust in her abilities by being brave enough to “make her mark.” What begins with a small dot on a piece of paper becomes a breakthrough in confidence and courage, igniting a journey of self-discovery and sharing, inspiring countless children and adults around the globe. Dot Day was a great way to have a fun Friday at school with students. A special thank you to Dean Road Elementary Art Teacher Andrea Newman for coordinating this event!

Autauga County Schools

LSA Ambassadors Tour with War Eagle Girls & Plainsmen

It was an honor for our LSA ambassadors to spend the morning on Auburn University’s campus with the War Eagle Girls & Plainsmen. They were able to ask questions, hear about important roles individuals in the group have taken on and what is required to be the hosts and hostesses of Auburn University! Our ambassadors also got the chance to see how they give their tours and take notes on how they can better the experiences of those who visit LSA. Thank you so much to War Eagle Girls and Plainsmen & Auburn University for their time and hospitality!

Opelika High Thanks Bus Drivers

It’s National School Bus Safety Week! Let’s take a minute to say THANK YOU to all of our OCS Transportation employees for doing such an awesome job each and every day!

ACS Students Attend Production of Sugar Skull

Students from Ogletree Elementary School (OES) and J.F. Drake Middle School (DMS) attended a production of “Sugar Skull!” this morning at the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center! “Sugar Skull! A Día de Muertos Musical Adventure” is a touring bilingual/bicultural musical for young audiences that uses traditional regional music and dance from Mexico to tell the story of twelveyear-old Vita Flores and embracing family’s traditions. “Sugar Skull!” is presented by Mexico Beyond Mariachi, a Mexican music and dance company specializing in full-length shows for families, school time shows, and residencies. The performance included community, family, and heritage themes, with an overall message of doing things with all your heart. This opportunity was made possible for fifth graders at OES and sixth graders at DMS through sponsorship by the City of Auburn, John and Rachel Hyink, and Walter and Virginia Woltosz.

Auburn Classical Academy students celebrating the life of Noah Evans by wearing his favorite color, green. The students held

Opelika High School Celebrates Seniors

Congratulations to all of this year’s seniors that have participated in football, band and cheerleading. It’s been a great season!

Please send school

high school teams from Alabama. Team 36830W (Maddox Beck, Parker Sumner, and Samantha Korac) secured a first-place overall win.

• Four J.F. Drake Middle School Robotics teams competed, and Team 36832R (Tala, Piper, Lucy, Mason) won the Middle School Design Award.

• Four Yarbrough Elementary School Robotics teams competed against 48 other teams in grades 3-6 from Alabama. Team 1555C (Kaiya Baughman, Avery Fowler, Liam Dailey, and Jayden Oh) secured the Excellence Award. Three YES teams made it to finals and were in the top ten for skills challenges.

• Four Wrights Mill Road Elementary Robotics teams competed, with one team

winning the Judges Award, one placing 9th in the finals, and one placing 9th in skills.

• Team 36832A from Auburn Junior High School competed, placed 20th in qualifications, and went on to compete in the finals, which decided the VEX IQ tournament champion. Team 36832A and their alliance placed 8th in the finals and gained tremendous knowledge from this outing.

ACS looks forward to many awards on the horizon for our Robotics teams, with the State VEX Championship set for February 2023!

Autauga County Schools Auburn Early Education Center Has

Named their Teacher of the Year

Mrs. Schiller has five years of music teaching experience in grades K-2, four years in Auburn City Schools and one year in Opelika City Schools.

She has spent the past nine summers teaching Summer Show-offs in the Auburn Community. “Mrs. Schiller touches the lives of our entire student body with her creative, enthusiastic, and engaging music lessons and activities. Her positive energy and joyful attitude spill over to her students making music a favorite destination for many of our children. In addition, she gives tireless effort to the amazing programs that she leads numerous times a year. These programs showcase students from across AEEC’s diverse population, and are beloved by teachers, parents and the community. It is Mrs. Schiller’s dedication, imagination, and resourceful effort that make these musical programs such a special part of our school. Sara Schiller is a model educator and leader. She helps to make AEEC a wonderful place to learn and grow!” -Matt Bruner, AEEC Principal

East Samford School Names

Teacher of

the Year

Mrs. Antoniak has been with Auburn City Schools since August 2016 and is currently a seventhgrade Project Lead the Way (PLTW) teacher at ESS in her 11th year of experience in public education. Before joining the ESS team, Mrs. Antoniak taught at J.F. Drake Middle School after a combined four years in Autauga and Macon County Schools.

“Mrs. Antoniak is an incredible teacher who goes above and beyond for both students and her colleagues. This year she was given the challenge of an additional elective course, and she has worked hard to ensure that her students are engaged in a collaborative and supportive learning environment. She is an amazing asset to the East Samford family, and we are so blessed to have her.”- Dr. Duriel Barlow, ESS Principal.

2022 Lee-Scott Academy Parade and Fairytale Ball

The 2022 Lee-Scott Academy Mother Goose Parade & 1st Grade Fairytale Ball were HUGE successes! Almost every nursery rhyme or fairytale character you can think of was in attendance and made their way around the school. Thanks to all our wonderful parents who lined the sidewalks and to the Upper School for taking time out of their busy day to see our

Duck was a great opportunity for sixth and seventh graders to showcase their school spirit and be with their classmates in an outdoor environment, complete with wacky outfits, team chants, and the sounds of marching bands. During both pep rallies, students competed in “minute to win it” challenges, learned the results of their fund-raising efforts, and celebrated the announcement of their Teacher of the Year! A special thank you to the East Samford School Band, Auburn High School Marching Band members, AHS Cheerleaders, AHS Varsity Football players, and AHS Head Football Coach Keith Etheredge for being a part of the fun today!

School Gives Back

Our students had a great time serving last Friday during our annual Day of Service! Do not be slothful in zeal, be fervent in spirit, serve the Lord.

Romans 12:11

Ogletree Elementary Names Their Teacherof the

Year

Mrs. Batts has been with Auburn City Schools since August 2018 and is currently a third-grade teacher at OES in her 14th year of experience in public education. Before joining the ACS team, Mrs. Batts taught in Kentucky for nine years. “Mrs. Batts is an exceptional teacher in the classroom and a visible leader within our school as the Third-Grade Department CoChair. She particularly loves being innovative with mathematics by incorporating critical thinking and creativity into her lessons; you will often find her students engaged in hands-on learning and collaboration. We are so proud to have Mrs. Batts represent Ogletree Elementary as our Teacher of the Year!” – Caroline Raville, OES Principal.

2nd Graders at Auburn Classical Academy Tour the Caverns

Auburn Classical Academy’s 2nd grade class took an adventure to Majestic Caverns in Childersburg, AL. The students learned about this amazing subterranean wonder, including stalagmites and stalactites, which compliments what they begin to learn about in school.

St. Michael Catholic Learns About Fire Safety

In October, St. Michael Catholic School celebrated Fire Safety Month with a visit from the Auburn Fire Department. Students were able to see that even with all of their equipment, firefighters are still regular people who will help us stay safe. Older students asked about the “jaws of life” and other equipment the fire fighters carry on their truck.

Spelling Bee Winners at LSA

Congratulations to all of the individuals who participated in the LSA school spelling bee! Jen Johnson represented 4th grade. Elizabeth Jones was the participant from 5th grade. Corbett Culpepper and Clay Cooper represented 6th and 7th grade respectively. Joshua Chang was the participant from 8th grade. 5th grade’s Elizabeth Jones was our LSA winner with 6th grade’s Corbett Culpepper as our alternate. Congratulations on an i-n-c-r-e-d-i-b-l-e job by all!

J.F. Drake has Named their Teacher of the Year

Mrs. Chapman has been with Auburn City Schools since August 2009 and is currently a sixth-grade math teacher at DMS in her 18th year of experience in public education. Before joining the ACS team, Mrs. Chapman taught in Troup County for four years. “Mrs. Jenna Chapman is a constant ray of sunshine, always wearing a smile and bringing a spirit of positivity wherever she goes. She is passionate about the teaching profession and serves colleagues across our campus as a trusted mentor and accountability partner. Jenna possesses the gift of seeing untapped potential in colleagues and students and uses thoughtfully crafted feedback to help those individuals rise to new levels of achievement and skill. Jenna passionately cares for her students and works tirelessly to cultivate a safe classroom culture, affirming and engaging. Mrs. Chapman is a masterful educator, a skillful communicator, and an absolute joy to have as part of our DMS family!” – Sarah Armstrong, DMS Principal.

wonder&worship

A CLASSICAL AND CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

Since

1978, we have encouraged students to glorify God through studying the Truth of His Word and exploring the splendor of His creation.

tcsopelika.org

Devices as Christmas Gifts... What You Need to Know

Christmas is here! I feel like we were celebrating last year’s Christmas, well, yesterday. Time sure does fly. I think being a parent immediately puts all of us in a time warp. Speaking of, how much do you miss the “old days” of Christmas? If you are north of 30, you know what I am talk ing about. Devices were not the “main gift”. We used to ask for bi cycles, coloring books, Lite-Brites, Cabbage Patch Kids, or a base ball bat. Okay, maybe you need to be north of 40 to remember some of those, but the reality is that devices didn’t become the main attraction until about 10, maybe 15, years ago. Other than the occasional Nintendo, our parents were not out buying cell phones, iPads, or gaming de vices that had access to the entire world.

I am also willing to bet if you had ap proached one of your parents with the idea of “do you want to buy a device that will allow your 8-yearold to have access to anyone across the world at all hours of the day,” they would have told you to take a hike. I think there is something to be said for the “go outside and play” generation. Our gifts usually brought us together with friends or, at the very least, spurred a safe, creative outlet.

But as much as we can wish for the old days, we are most definitely in a new

and different generation. And if your child has their first cell phone or gam ing device on their list, there are a few things we must consider first, as parents, to protect our kids. First, how old is your child? And I do not mean just chronologi cally. What is their maturity level? I have met many 16-year-olds I did not think should have access to any online activity. Take some time to think about how your child acts and reacts to situations. Do they follow your rules? Will they obey the boundaries you set, or will they test them at all times? This will help you decide if it is time for a device, if they need restrictions placed on it, or if they may not need one at all.

Secondly, are you ready for a part-time job? What does this mean? The parents I work with always ask, “What is the ‘best age’ for a device?” I always respond with, “Are you ready for a part-time job?” Are you ready for your relationship with your child to change? Because the reality is that to protect children, we MUST look at what they are doing. This means we must learn how to operate their phone. You need to know how to use each app on the phone. How to access their folders and pictures. And then you must

invest the time, weekly in the beginning for our young kids, doing random device checks. This is time-consuming. And the harsh reality is it will never feel like enough. You will always feel like you need to protect them more. And you will always wonder if they are doing things you cannot access and should not be doing.

Third, are you ready to set boundar ies and rules around the device? You must do this to protect your child. Not just from others but from themselves. And, these boundaries must be established early. I encourage you to talk about kids before purchasing a phone or device. Because if the limits cannot be agreed upon, then it may not be time for a device in the home.

While all of this may sound exhaust ing and stressful, we must ensure we do what we can to protect our kids. If your gut feeling is that your kid is not ready for a device, it is okay to listen to that feeling. And to wait. They will survive. Maybe a “throwback” Christmas with toys that encourage time together is just what everyone needs.

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate.

She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience.

She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associ ated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knb communications.com.

Does it feel like your kids already have more toys than they could ever want? I love the holidays and the spirit of gift-giving, but every year, I wonder what toys my kids could possibly want and where they will go in our already crowded home. Experience gifts are a great gift option that has benefits for kids, parents, and other gift-givers.

Here are some excellent experience gift ideas for every child on your list.

Season pass

One of my family’s favorite gifts is seasonal passes to local attractions. This saves us money and encourages us to get out, enjoy our city, and make memories along the way. Some attrac tions to consider are zoo admission, a local museum, amusement park tickets, or swimming season passes to the area pool.

Subscription box

A subscription box is a great gift idea especially for tweens and teens who are hard to buy for. They are now available for any age, interest, and price range. So if your child loves science, reading, art, games, or sports, chances are there is a subscription box that will fit their interests.

Classes and camps

Consider giving the gift of prepaid classes or camps that fit your child’s inter est. Some ideas include dance, gymnas tics, sports, cooking, art, or music. Classes and camps can be expensive but are worth the money and allow kids to try something new.

Travel

Consider combining your holiday and vacation budget by taking a family trip. Whether it’s an overnight trip to a nearby indoor water park or a cross-country trip, traveling is a great way to expose your child to different places and build family memories simultaneously.

Tickets

Tickets to a favorite sporting event, concert, or show is a great idea for a gift for the whole family. Combine the gift with a T-shirt to wear to the event or a back stage tour to make the day more memo rable.

Box it up

If your budget is a little smaller, try putting together several things in a box for your child to enjoy. For example, create a movie box with a movie or video rental gift card, candy, popcorn, and a warm blanket so the family can enjoy a movie night at home. Combine art sup plies, sketchbooks, paints, and other craft items for an art box. You could also

put together a cooking box, ingredients for homemade playdough with cookie cutters, or a gardening box with seeds, gloves, and tools. Get creative and combine your child’s interests to create a customized package.

Adventure gifts

For the adventurous child, look for experience gifts that give them a chance to try something they wouldn’t usually get to do. Some ideas could include horseback riding, fishing, camping, rock climbing, indoor skydiving, or a day at a

gym with an obstacle course or trampolines.

With an experience gift, your child will create great memories while enjoying something they may not have had the opportunity to try otherwise. A bonus is that there is no need to store the item after the child has grown tired of playing with it.

AOP

Sarah Lyons is a freelance journalist and contributing writer.

A wise woman once said, “Eat dessert first, in case there is a fire!”

So, this month, our Dinner’s Ready recipe is actually a dessert brought to you by Crystal McK elvy and her family.

“We are sharing our Eggnog Crème Brulee recipe for the holidays,” said Crystal. “Who doesn’t love to indulge a little during Christmas?”

This is a recipe Crystal thoroughly enjoys making with her 15-year-old daugh ter Addison, even though Addison cannot partake in its yummy goodness due to a condition she has called Very Long Chain Acyl-CoA Dehydrogenase Deficiency.

“Addison and I love being in the kitchen together. She has a condition called VLCAD, which means her body will not digest very long-chain fatty acids. So we find recipes together that we can alter for her diet. Our family eats a lot healthier because of it,” Crystal shared.

Crystal and her husband Dennis have been married since September 2003 and have three children. Their oldest, Jordan, is 22, lives in Florida, and works for a survey ing company. He plans to return to UAB in the spring to finish his civil engineering degree. Thomas, who is 17, is a senior at Auburn High School and plans to attend Southern Union after he graduates. He works at Chick-fil-A and enjoys skateboard ing. Addison is their youngest and is a freshman at Auburn Junior High School. She coaches cheerleading at Premier Spirit Academy and loves being able to give back to a program she has been involved in since she was four years old.

“With our busy schedules, we all take turns cooking – even the teenage boy,” said Crystal. “We keep a family grocery list on the shared notes app. We can add items as

we see they are needed or wanted, then simply check them off when the item is purchased. This makes it easy to have everything we need for cooking din ner.”

Crystal has been the Events Coordina tor for the Auburn Chamber of Commerce for the last four years. She loves getting to lay the groundwork for all the events the chamber members get to enjoy.

“When you get to enjoy what you do, it is not work, and that is how I feel about work ing for the Auburn Cham ber,” said Crystal.

When she isn’t work ing, Crystal loves to read. In fact, she and a few friends are in a book club that meets periodically to discuss current books of their choice. We at AuburnOpelika Parents have a feeling that Crystal and her friends will be indulging in this dessert at their next book club meeting.

Crystal & Addison’s Christmas Eggnog Crème Brûlée

Ingredients:

2 cups eggnog 4 egg yolks

¼ c. sugar + a little extra for torching 3 oz. mascarpone cheese

1 vanilla bean pod or 1 tsp. vanilla extract ½ tsp. cinnamon ¼ tsp. nutmeg and ¼ tsp. cloves

Directions:

Step1: Place five ramekins into a shal low baking dish. I like to use a medium size Pyrex. Fill the Pyrex or baking dish with water to about halfway on the ramekins. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

Step 2: Pour the eggnog into a small saucepan over medium heat. Cook while stirring until the mixture comes up to heat, not quite a boil. Depending on your stovetop, it will be about 12 minutes. Re move the pan from the heat.

Step 3: Place the egg yolks, sugar, and vanilla seeds from the pod into a mix ing bowl. Beat until the sugar dissolves. Blend in the mascarpone cheese. Slowly whisk in the heated eggnog into the egg mixture. Be sure to do this slowly while whisking steadily. You do not want to turn your egg mixture into scrambled eggs. Stir in the nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves.

Step 4: Evenly pour your mixture into the ramekins.

Step 5: Bake about 30-45 minutes, until the custard has set. Your custard should be able to wiggle, but not be soupy.

Step 6: Remove from oven and cool for 30 minutes. Refrigerate at least three hours before serving. We prefer to refrigerate overnight to allow the flavors time to develop.

Step 7: Remove the rame kins from the refrigerator. Lightly cover the top of the custard with sugar. Use a torch to caramelize the sugar. Serve and enjoy!

Gabriele has been married to her hus band Daniel for 16 years. Together they have three incredible children. In addition to freelane writing, she is a full time Pink Cadillac Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics.

One of the critical challenges of holiday time is that our children get so used to receiving oodles of gifts that they begin to expect that they will always get more and more. But have you noticed how quickly they lose interest in many toys they receive during the holidays?

Showering our children with gifts every year can end up being detrimental if they become numb to the excitement of presents and focus only on the receiving side of the holidays. However, there are several ways to instill some balance so that our children learn to appreciate what they receive while also giving to others.

Express Gratitude

Gratitude is one of the most important ways to boost happiness, providing us with incredible psychological, physical, and interpersonal benefits. It improves our health, re duces stress, and helps us focus on the positive aspects of life. In addition, teaching our kids how to step back and be thankful for what they have will keep them grounded and help them realize just how lucky they are to receive toys and other gifts at holiday time.

You can encourage your kids to express their gratitude for the gifts they receive by writing thank-you notes to friends and relatives. You can also go around the dinner table and invite everyone to say how grateful they are for each gift and why it is so meaning ful to them. Finally, journaling is one of the most popular and effective ways to express gratitude. It encourages our kids to acknowledge the joyous moments in their day, no matter how insignificant they may seem. Consider giving them their own gratitude jour nal this holiday season, so they have the perfect place to record what they are thankful for, including their holiday gifts and other special moments throughout the year.

Learn That Less Is More

How many dolls does one little girl really need? If you dig through your children’s old toys, you may be taken aback by how many of each item they have: multiple puzzles, games, cars, trucks, plastic figures, and art supplies. It never ends. When they are showered with too many presents, it reduces the interest value of each toy very quickly. According to Kim John Payne in Simplicity Parenting: Using the Extraordinary Power of Less to Raise Calmer, Happier, and More Secure Kids, kids who are inundated with toys are so over whelmed that they are unable to play by themselves and can even develop focus issues.

It is essential to teach our children how to pick and choose a few special gifts they would like and not go overboard. Parenting coach Carla Naumburg developed a fabu lous poem to inspire the types of presents to give to children for the holidays that help make each gift meaningful. This approach goes beyond just the toys children typically want, allowing parents and children to be more creative with gifts.

Something you want, something you need, to wear, to read. Something to see, something to spare, something to cook, something to share.

Give to the Less Fortunate

The holiday season can quickly become a shopping spree if we are not careful. But this is a particularly critical time of year to remember those who cannot celebrate the holidays like we are with piles of gifts. December is the perfect time to clean out the playroom and practice some giving. Spend time each year going through every nook and cranny to weed out the old toys before you bring in the new ones. Ask your children to collect piles of items to recycle, throw away, and donate. When the children choose from their own pile of toys, it creates a powerful hands-on experience to learn about the balance between giving and receiving.

After you do this exercise a few times, your kids will automatically realize that no matter what new gifts they receive, they will choose some that they no longer play with to give to children who may not get any presents at all. This is a habit that everyone can easily add to their holiday traditions.

You can also encourage your children to forgo a new gift or two to purchase items for those in need. Look for a holiday toy drive in your community to support and take your kids with you to purchase the items and deliver them to the charity.

Sandi Schwartz is an author, journalist, and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. As the founder and director of the Ecohappiness Project, her mis sion is to inspire and educate families to build a nature habit to feel happier and calmer. Learn more at www.ecohappinessproject.com.

Auburn/Opelika

Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 11 and 25

December 3, December 18-19

425 Perry Street Auburn, Al 36830

Jingle Jog 5K/Santa Stroll: The Jingle Jog 5k and Santa Stroll Fun Run are here again – so pull out those Santa hats and ugly sweaters! Join Active Auburn on Saturday, December 3rd at 6:30 a.m. as we ring in the holiday season in style! The Santa Stroll Fun Run (1 mile) will begin at 6:30 a.m. at Toomer’s Corner and the Jingle Jog 5k will begin at 7:00 a.m. at Toomer’s Corner. A Holiday Walk in the Woods: Presented by Auburn Area Community Theatre and Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. A celebration of music and traditions representative of our whole community! Join us for a new tradition – a beautiful walk in the winter woods with lights, decoration, and family-friendly perfor mances that highlight the diverse traditions and cul ture of our community. Walks have special surprises and songs for the kids; as well as woodsy holiday art activities at the end. The Holiday Walk in the Woods will take place at the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center on Friday, December 18th at 5:00 PM and Saturday, December 19th at 10:00 AM and 5:00 PM. Tickets are specific to a time slot and will be $7 per person for everyone over the age of three! 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org

The Farm at Rocky Toy Country Christmas

ad on page 5

November 25-December 18

2810 County Road 145, Salem, Al. Families can enjoy pictures with Santa and many fun photo areas, the Rocky Top Railroad,The North Pole Playground, Reindeer games, and pick a tree at the Christmas tree farm. 334-559-5567 www.thefarmatrockytop.com

Collingwood Christmas Luminaries

ad on page 3

December

Collinwood Street Opelika, Al 36801 Take a drive through the Collinwood neighborhood to experience the pathway to Bethlehem. Featur

ing live actors and live animals, this tradition is fun for the whole family. With over 1,500 sacks with candles prepared by the Collinwood neigh borhood 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.

Opelika Library Holiday Events

ad on page 3

December, various dates Opelika Public Library, 1100 Glenn Street, Opelika Opelika’s Very Merry Stroll: December 1-31, Get in the holiday spirit with a walk through Opelika’s Very Merry Stroll, a holiday showcase made of 25 locally decorated live Christmas trees. The Tree Lighting is on December 1 at 6:30 p.m. Join Santa and Mrs. Claus for a cup of hot cocoa courtesy of the Opelika Police Department. Every evening the trees light up Library Park from dusk until 9 p.m. Family Movie and Crafternoon: December 3, 2:00-4:00pm. Bring the family to the library to enjoy a showing of Elf and a fun crafting project. Fa La La Fest: December 17, 10:00am-12:00pm. Join the Opelika Public Library staff and explore the magic of Christmas at this fun, one-day festival. There will be activities and crafts for all ages. This indoor event is drop-in and at your own pace. Christmas Movie Marathon: December 23, Starts at 10:00am. Grab your friends, family, cozy blan kets, and bean bags, and settle in for a movie...or 6 with the Opelika Public Library’s Christmas Movie Marathon! The first movie will begin at 10 a.m. and a new movie will begin every 2 hours. www.opelika-al.gov

Santa On the Corner

ad on page 11 and 25

Toomer’s Corner, 100 N College St 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

A Living Nativity

ad on page 9

December 1, 5:30-7:30pm

Lee-Scott Academy, 1601 Academy Dr, Auburn We invite the Auburn & Opelika communities to

celebrate the Christmas Season as our students present “A Living Nativity at Lee-Scott Academy”. www.lee-scott.org

Christmas In Camelot Lighted Tour

ad on page 3

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.

Drive Thru Nativity Story

ad on page 3

December 1-31

Spa Loop and Yards Lane Opelika, Al 36801

Drive through the Nativity Story at National Village - Spa Loop and Yards Lane. Presented by National Village Joint Venture. www.opelikachristmas.com

Opelika Christmas Parade

ad on page 3

December 2, 5:00pm

Downtown Opelika Opelika, Al 36801

Don’t miss the 2022 Opelika Christmas Parade: Winter Wonderland! 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 334-745-4681

Scott Bradlee’s A Very Postmodern Jukebox

ad on Inside Back Cover

December 2, 7:30pm

Gogue Center for the Performing Arts, 910 South College Street Auburn, Al 36849

When New York City pianist Scott Bradlee cre ated Postmodern Jukebox out of a basement in Queens in 2011, his goal was simple: remake the pop hits of today into the classic sounds of yesterday. Bruno Mars became Frank Sinatra. The

Spice Girls became The Andrews Sisters. Guns ’n’ Roses became Bessie Smith. 334-844-4722 https://goguecenter.auburn.edu/scottbradlees-postmodern-jukebox/

Sno*Pelika Festival featuring Snowfall & Christmas Tree Lighting ad on page 3

December 2, 5:45-7:00pm

Courthouse Square Opelika, Al 36801 Opelika’s official kick-off event for the Christmas season! This is a free event for all! This is an annual community event that kicks off the Christmas season in Opelika with artificial snowfall and tree lighting. www.opelikachamber.com

Annual Christmas in a Railroad Town

ad on page 3

December 3, December 4.

1032 South Railroad Avenue Opelika, Al 36801 Visit with friends and enjoy a variety of food vendors and restaurants. Bring the kids to write letters to Santa, enjoy pony rides, caroling, en tertainment 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 transport ed 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 www.opelikamainstreet.org

Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express

ad on page 3

December 8-10

1001 Andrews Road Opelika, Al 36801

Come take a train ride through the lights at Munici pal Park! Enjoy food, hot chocolate, face painting, entertainment, pictures with Santa and more! Ages 2nd grade and younger. Brought to you by Opelika Parks and Recreation 334-705-5560 www.opelika.org

Opelika Middle/High School Holiday Choral Concert

ad on page 3

December 6, 6:00pm

Opelika Center for Performing Arts, 1700 Lafayette Pkwy, Opelika. Join Opelika City School and bring the family to listen to the festive sounds of the season in concert.

Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour

ad on page 3

December 9-13

Opelika Historic District, 8th & 9th Streets

The homes are decorated with life size Santa’s, angels, toys, carousel horses and Christmas themed figures. The Victorian Front Porch Christ mas 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 wag on rides through the Victorian Front Porch Christ mas tour which includes tour guides who take you back in time while enjoying the festively decorated homes. Bike Tour: December 10, 10am, Walking Tour: Saturday December 10, 6:00-9:30pm. www.opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com

Opelika Middle/High School Holiday Band Concert

ad on page 3

December 10, 7:00pm

Opelika Center for Performing Arts, 1700 Lafayette Pkwy, Opelika.

Join Opelika City School and bring the family to listen to the festive sounds of the season in concert.

Where’s Theodore?

ad on page 3

December 12-16

1001 Andrews Road Opelika, Al 36801

Help Parks and Recreation find their Elf on the Shelf! How to Help: During the week of Dec. 12-16, watch our social media pages for clues to help us find our elf! Bring the Christmas ornament he has left behind to the SportsPlex to claim your prize!

Brought to you by Opelika Parks and Recreation 334-705-5560 www.opelika.org

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Christmas Cookies & Movie Night

ad on page 3

December 16

1001 Andrews Road Opelika, Al 36801

Free event for all from 6:30-8:30pm. Brought to you by Opelika Parks and Recreation. 334-705-5560 www.opelika.org

Christmas Movie at the Plex ad on page 3 and 27 December 16, 6:30-8:30pm Sportsplex, 1001 SportsPlex Pkwy, Opelika Join Opelika Parks and Recreation as we get into the Holiday spirit of giving by watching The Grinch.

Holidays at Kreher Preserve & Nature Center

ad on page 10 December 16-17 2222 North College Street Auburn, Al 36082 Ho Ho Ho Hike and Holiday Celebration: On Saturday, December 3rd from 10 am – 12:30pm, Kreher and Jan Dempsey will partner to turn the Preserve into a Winter Wonderland, full of nature-themed crafts, performances, cookies, hot chocolate, and a visit from Mrs. Claus. This event will also include the traditional HoHoHo Hike, a unique and fun “Santa hunt” where you will hike the Preserve looking for the elusive visitor in red, meeting many of nature’s creatures along the way. Don your comfortable walking shoes and come celebrate the holiday season with the Clauses! A walking tour through the piney winter woods with lights, decoration, and songs by local talent at stations along the trail. All performances will be family-friendly and highlight the diverse traditions and culture of our community. The Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center will offer a trail stop with woodsy holiday art activities. Addition ally, walks will have special surprises and songs for the kids! The cost is $15 per person (adults must have a ticket); children under the age of 24 months are FREE with the purchase of an adult ticket. Tickets go on sale Tuesday, November 1, and are available online ONLY by visiting aubur nalabama.org/arts. 334-844-8091 www.wp.auburn.edu/preserve/

Niffer’s Place Kids’ New Year’s Eve Celebration

ad on page 33 December 31

Auburn and Lake Martin 1151 Opelika Road, Auburn, Al, 36830 7500 Highway 49 South, Dadeville, Al 36853

Make reservations now for our family-friendly din ner and celebration with great food, party hats and a sparkling juice toast to ring in the New Year! 334-821-3118 and 256-825-5950 www.niffersplace.com/new-years

Christmas at Choctafaula

December

929 County Road 14 Auburn, Al 36830

Featuring hayrides to see exotic and domestic animals, horse-drawn carriage rides, hand-led pony rides, meet & greet with Santa Claus, face painting, Christmas crafts and more! Christmas at Choctafaula has a selection of Fraser fir trees available for purchase. 334-750-2521 www.visitchocatafaula.com

Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity Annual Cookie Walk Fundraiser

December 3, 8:00am-12:00pm

Grace UMC, 915 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn. Hand-select from a dazzling array of delicious, beautifully decorated cookies, and holiday treats... perfect for serving and giving. Enjoy music enter tainment, a quilt raffle, and pictures with Santa!

Gingerbread House Decorating

at Auburn Marriott Opelika

December 3, 10, 17

3700 Robert Trent Jones TRL, Opelika Decorate a gingerbread house with loved ones! Each family will receive one gingerbread house and all the items needed to decorate your very own unique creation. You will have 1½ hours to design your gingerbread house. When the time is up, the Chef will come in and judge each entry for difficulty and creativity. $30 per Family/Group for one gingerbread house. Call 334.741.9292.

Christmas at Trinity Methodist December 4th

800 2nd Avenue Opelika, Al 36801

Christmas Cantata: December 4, 10:30am. You don’t want to miss this special Christmas celebra

tion of worship and music. Jingle Jam: Fun for the whole family at 5:00pm. Christmas Eve Service December 24, 4:00pm, 6:00pm. Christmas Day Service December 25, 10:30am. www.tumcopelika.org

The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center

December 5-January 1

241 South College Street Auburn , Al 36830

Gingerbread Village Unveiling- Come experience the largest Gingerbread Village in East Alabama in the conference center of the Hotel at Auburn University. Over 10 Gingerbread Buildings are on display in the pre-function foyer for guests to admire. The Gingerbread Village will be unveiled right after the Auburn Christmas Parade and remains on display throughout the month of December.

334-821-8200 www.auhcc.com

The Nutcracker presented by Variations Dance Studio

December 9-10, 7:00pm, 2:00pm, 7:00pm

Gogue Center for the Performing Arts, 910 South College Street Auburn, Al 36849

Celebrate the joy and wonder of the holidays with Variation’s Dance Studio’s performance of The Nutcracker. Follow Clara’s wintry adventures as she battles mischievous mice and charms the Sugar Plum Fairy.

334-844-4722 https://goguecentertickets.auburn. edu/Online/default.asp

East Alabama Community Ballet presents The Nutcracker

December 9-11

Telfair Peet Theater, 350 West Samford Avenue Auburn University, Al 36849

Multiple Performances: Join Clara and the Nutcracker as they battle the evil Mouse Queen and travel to the Land of Sweets! Journey with them as they meet various treats from different countries including the beautiful Sugar Plum Fairy! Clara’s Tea Party: December 10.

For younger audiences, Clara’s Tea Party is a shorter performance of The Nutcracker. Experience all the magic of Act II, The Land of Sweets! Meet the dancers while enjoying treats and crafts!

334-844-4748 www.eacballet.com

Brunch with Santa at Auburn Marriott Opelika at Grand National

December 10, 10:00am and 12:00pm

3700 Robert Trent Jones TRL, Opelika Be a special guest for the annual brunch with Santa event at The Marriott Resort & Spa! Enjoy Christmas crafts, a very merry brunch (with an omelet and waffle station), train rides on the North Pole Express, and time with Santa & his elves to make sure he knows what you want for Christmas! Seating times are 10 a.m. & 12 p.m. To make reservations please call 334-737-2117.

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.) Orders may be placed with any JLLC member or online at junior leagueofleecounty.org. juniorleagueofleecounty@gmail.com

Around Alabama Christmas On the Coosa

ad on page 17

December 10th

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 We tumpka’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. This year marks the 50th Anniversary and the theme is “A Golden Christmas”. 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

The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum’s Christmas at the Museum

Through December 18

1919 9th Street Calera, Al 35040 North Pole Express: A Magical Christmastime Tradition: Through the dark night, the North Pole Express makes its way by starlight to the top of the world. On the way, you’ll listen to a whimsical Christmas story, sing your favorite holiday carols, and watch out the windows for the bright lights of the North Pole to appear. Christmas at the Station: A newly reimagined daytime holiday event at the Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum each Saturday before Christmas in December. Bring the family for a fun-filled Christmas experience riding trains, seeing Santa, exploring a festive maze, and more on the Museum grounds!

205-668-3435 www.hodrrm.org

Downtown Dickens Christmas

December 2-3

Wetumpka, Al 36092

Don’t miss this event as we celebrate the annual Christmas tree lighting and enjoy a Victorian Christmas in historic downtown Wetumpka! A Downtown Dickens Christmas will be held on December 2nd and 3rd from 5:00 pm-8:00 pm,

where you’ll be transported back to scenes from “A Christmas Carol” with period costumes, photos with Father Christmas, authentic vendors, and decorated downtown businesses. This is the perfect time to walk around our whimsical historic business district and complete your holiday shopping.

http://wetumpkachamber.chambermaster.com/ events/details/a-downtown-dickens-christ mas-12-03-2022-43856

Annual Christmas Light Festival at the Montgomery Zoo

December 2-25

The Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway Montgomery, Al 36110

See the Montgomery Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland sparkling with thousands of lights 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

Alabama Shakespeare Festival

presents “It’s a Wonderful Life”

December 2-31

1 Festival Drive Montgomery, Al 36117

This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers the impact of his life one fateful Christmas Eve. Kate Bergstrom will make her directorial debut leading a cast of five actors who will use sound

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

effects, singing, and quick character changes to bring to life this iconic American story. This production is perfect for all ages. 334-271-5353 www.asf.net

Alabama Ballet presents George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker”

December 16-23 2726 1st Avenue South Birmingham, Al 35233 Tchaikovsky’s beloved melodies transport the young and young at heart to a magical world where mischievous mice besiege a battalion of toy soldiers, and an onstage blizzard leads to an enchanted Land of Sweets. 205-322-4300 www.alabamaballet.org

Atlanta Area

License to Chill Islands & Magical Night of Lights

December - January

Lake Lanier Islands, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway Buford, Ga 30518

Lakeside Lights Spectacular: Kick start your holidays with a visit to Margaritaville’s all-new Lakeside Lights Spectacular for a night of nostalgic wintry fun. The Lakeside Lights Spectacular will take you on a magi cal walk through an amazing lighting extravaganza with festive seasonal music. Great for the whole family! License to Chill Snow Island: Take the crew snow tubing, get your skates on and practice your figure eights at the ice rink, hop on the carnival rides, make snow angels, warm up with s’ mores and hot cocoa, and shop in Santa’s Workshop. Don’t forget to stop in and let the little ones tell Jolly Ole St. Nick what they hope to find under the tree. 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 blanketlit 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. 770-945-8787 www.lanierislands.com

Stone Mountain Christmas

November 12- January 1

Stone Mountain, Ga 30083

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, fes tive music and visits from some your favorite holiday characters. Each day of Stone Mountain Christmas, you can enjoy park attractions including Summit Skyride, Scenic Railroad, and more! Then, immerse yourself in holiday magic with evenings full of festive music, millions of dazzling lights, spectacular shows and visits from some of your favorite holiday charac ters! Events include Angelina the Snow Angel, Visit Santa, Journey through the Musical Frosted Forest, Jurassic Christmas, Polar Express 4D, and more! 800-401-2407 www.stonemountainpark.com

Phenix City/Columbus

Callaway Gardens Fantasy in Lights

Through January 1 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. Celebrate 30 years of family tradition with a new spectacular scene on the lake, 10 million twinkling lights and 2,500 acres of Christmas cheer! A be loved Christmas tradition shines even brighter! This season, experience the NEW Celebration Lake, a floating spectacular featuring 30 dancing trees honoring 30 years of Fantasy In Lights! 800-898-4868 www.callawaygardens.com

The Lundy’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

Christmas with The Wave Theatre Organ

December 3, 11:00am 900 Broadway Columbus, Ga 31901 Christmas with The Wave returns this year as part of our holiday open house festivities on Saturday, December 3. Come in right after the Columbus Holiday Parade for festive music, hot chocolate and, of course, the annual display of our spectacu lar Gingerbread Village! www.rivercenter.org

Santa Claus 10K at Callaway Gardens

December 4th

Callaway Gardens, 17800 US Hwy 27 Pine Mountain, Ga 31822

This run course travels through the Callaway Gar dens lit “FANTASY IN LIGHTS” and includes marsh mallow, chocolate, and candy cane miles. Stick around after the race for your picture with Santa! tricolumbusga@gmail.com www.tricolumbusga.com

Springer Opera House

December 15-23, December 1-23

Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street Columbus, Ga 31901

“A Tuna Christmas”: Since 2001, over 50,000 otherwise normal people have spent perfectly good money to celebrate their holidays by watch ing two amazing actors portray 21 inhabitants of Tuna, Texas in a hilarious quick-change comedy sensation that has become a true cult favorite for Columbus audiences. The annual yard display contest has been plagued by a bandit known only as the Christmas Phantom. Socialite Vera Carp hopes to win for the fifteenth year in a row, but she has stiff competition from Didi Snavely, the owner of Didi’s Used Weapons and the sassy Tastee Kreme waitresses Inita Goodwin and Helen Bedd. Meanwhile, Aunt Pearl Burrus and Dixie DeBerry ain’t sayin’ nothin’. Find out why people say, “It just isn’t Christmas without A Tuna Christmas!” “A White Christmas”: This is the beloved song-anddance Holiday spectacular featuring the music of Irving Berlin. World War II combat veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis are now a popular entertainment duo. With romance in mind, they join a pair of beautiful singing sisters at their lavish Christmas show at a Vermont lodge, which just happens to be owned by their former commanding general.

706-327-3688 www.springeroperahouse.org

The Columbus Ballet presents The Nutcracker

December 17-18, 2:30pm and 7:30pm

900 Broadway Columbus, Ga 31901

Join us as the magic returns to the RiverCenter stage for our 26th anniversary production of The Nutcracker. This annual Christmas classic celebrates the joy and spirit of dance and is a perfect way for families to enjoy the holiday season.

www.rivercenter.org

Valley/LaGrange

The Manger Tours

Weekends Through December 23

Explorations in Antiquity Center, 130 Gordon Com mercial Drive LaGrange, Al 30240

The Manger Tours: Follow the journey of Joseph and Mary as they travel from Nazareth to Beth lehem 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

LaGrange Christmas Parade

December 2, 6:00pm

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, com

munity 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. And, much to the delight of both the young and young at heart, Santa always manages to make a special guest appearance on the top of a fire truck.

706-844-8671 www.lagrangechamber.com

Christmas Holidays at Hills & Dales

December 2-30

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 lu minaries workshop, mixed green Christmas wreath workshops and Children’s Christmas Celebration. 706-882-3242 www.hillsanddales.org

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, experi ence 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.facebook.com/City-of-ValleyChristmas-Merry-Go-Round

AOP

Empathy is the ability to put yourself in another’s shoes. It’s similar to sympathy but with an important difference. To sympathize is to care about and understand the suffering experienced by another. When you sympathize with someone, you feel sorry for them. Sympathy gives you the ability to say the right thing to comfort another.

But empathy goes a step further. It’s the ability to actually experience or relive the feelings of another. When you empa thize, rather than focusing on your own feelings about the other person’s situa tion, you’re able to focus on the emotions of that person. When you empathize, the other person can tell you’re really listening to them. Furthermore, empathy increases your ability and likelihood to help the per son with whom you empathize.

According to neuroscientists, the vast majority of us are born with the brain wiring necessary to empathize. Psychopaths make up about 1% of the population and are the exception, according to a 2013 study by neuroscientists at the University of Chicago and the University of New Mexico. Still, among the 99% of us who are born with this capacity, most don’t fully develop or use it to its potential.

Benefits of empathy

Empathy is beneficial in many ways, according to Katherin Sears, Ph.D., in “Why Empathy Benefits Everyone.” It provides us the ability to act kindly toward others, forgive family and friends, and bond with others over their ups and downs. Without the ability to empathize, it would be difficult, if not impos sible, to form and maintain friendships. In fact, we’d have difficulty getting along with others at school or work and in society.

Satya Nadella, the CEO of Microsoft, in an interview with CBS Good Morning, revealed another vital benefit of empathy. Without it, she says, “there is no way we could innovate.” This makes a lot of sense. Although some people would still have the desire to innovate for personal gain, in novation would be far more limited. People would lack the motivation to innovate to help others unless it offered a reward for themselves. The field of medicine is a perfect example. Many strides have been made in medicine over the decades, much of which has resulted from human empathy.

How to teach kids empathy

Experts believe, based on a large body of evidence, that empathy can be shaped. Not only can kids learn to empa thize better, but so can adults. By practic ing the following as a family, you can foster your and your child’s ability to empathize.

Active listening. This is a crucial com ponent of empathy. Practice really listen ing to each other and trying to understand the other’s perspective. Active listening includes paying close attention to body language and facial expressions, so you can better understand the other person. It also requires refraining from interrupt

ing. Parents’ modeling of active listening with their kids is particularly crucial to kids’ development of this skill.

Give back. Talk with your kids about the experiences, feelings, and needs of those who are less fortunate. Consider various forms of adversity, such as kids with a ter minal illness, the homeless, poor families, and those in nursing homes. Ask your kids open-ended questions. Have them consider how it feels to be in those other people’s shoes. Then make a plan with your kids to help out in some way.

Commonalities. Despite the ability to empathize, studies have found people are often less empathetic toward those of other races or who are stereotyped in some way. Con sider the things you have in common with those who are different and talk about these commonalities with your child. Also, ask your kids what they might have in common with someone of another ethnicity or race.

Lose yourself in fiction. It’s a great way to experience and understand another, even though the characters are fictitious. This will improve your ability to empathize in real-life situations. It’s a great way to teach kids empathy, too. Children’s books commonly have characters faced with adversity or dealing with challenging situations.

Practice reading faces. People often don’t share what they’re feeling or experienc ing. Yet, it’s often written all over their faces. Pay attention to people’s expressions, and try to understand what they’re feeling.

Look for opportunities to care. Every day there are people all around us in need. So, set an example for your kids. If an elderly person is struggling to load heavy groceries into their car, quickly put yourself in their shoes. Then offer to help. Also, have your kids practice looking for ways to care (while also adhering to safety rules with strangers).

Share in excitement and joy. Empa thy isn’t only about understanding people’s downs. It’s also the ability to share in their happiness. Regardless of how busy you are, when your child is excited about something, take a moment to really share in your child’s enthusiasm. Likewise, share your experience with your child when something brings you great joy.

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com.

Friday, December 2

Heather McMahan: The Comeback Tour

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, Al Named to Variety’s Comedy Impact Report following the unprecedented suc cess of her debut, THE FAREWELL TOUR, Heather McMahan is back on the road bringing the giggles nationwide. www.mpaconline.org/events/

Montgomery Gem, Mineral & Jewelry Show hrough Sunday, December 4, 2022 We’ll have over 25 dealers selling everything from amethyst cathedrals to Zebra rock, rocks and minerals inexpensive to moderately priced. You will find crystals, faceted gems, rough, geodes, decorator items, books and supplies, beads, cabochons, finished jewelry, tools, mineral slabs & specimens, fossils and lots more. We’ll have a min eral ID table, demonstration table where club members will give demonstrations on gem and rock cutting, faceting, and cabochon making and more. We will have club member displays that are both educational and interesting that YOU get to vote on. www.mgms.club/mgms/

Saturday, December 3

Rumble on the Rails through Sunday, December 4, 2022 Opelika SportsPlex, 1001 Sportsplex Pkwy, Opelika Get ready for Rumble on the Rails! Come join us on the tracks for a fun-filled weekend of competitive soccer matches on the pristine fields of Opelika Sportsplex & Aquatics. This is an ASA Sanctioned event and is open to ALL U.S. Soccer clubs, etc. We look forward to treating your players, parents, and coaches to an event unmatched in the southeast. 912-604-1998

Saturdays at the Garden 12:00 PM, O Grows Community Garden, 1103 Glenn Street, Opelika This fall, O Grows Community Garden will be hosting Saturdays at the Garden! Every Saturday, come join us for local produce, baked goods, and home goods vendors. There will also be STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, & Math) activities for kids of all ages, storytime at 10 am with the Opelika Public Library, goat feeding and petting, and volunteer opportunities in the garden (harvested produce is free to the community!) www.facebook.com/opelikagrows

Monday, December 5

Daddy Daughter Date Night Tickets On Sale

(Tickets are $35 for a father/daughter pair and $5 for each additional daughter.) 8:00 AM Auburn Junior High School Fieldhouse Gym All dance nights will be held at the Auburn Junior High School Fieldhouse Gym. 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 memo ries. Special guests will also be in attendance! This year’s theme is “Magic in the Air”. Purchase your tickets starting at 8 a.m. on Dec. 5th at www.auburnalabama. org/parks Make sure you have a MyRec account made. www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Auditions for Auburn Area Community Theatre Young Performers: “Holmes and Watson: The Game’s Afoot”

through Tuesday, December 6, 2022 Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, 222 East Drake Avenue, Au burn Cast of deductive geniuses from age 12-18 (You

must still be in High School). Please come prepared with a one minute dramatic monologue. Tosign up for a time slot, go to the City of Auburn’s parks and rec page. You will need to set up an account for your actor. Rehearsal Attendance Policy: The first Saturday rehearsal, and all rehearsals beginning September 12 are full cast and mandatory. For previously scheduled school obligations, you may be excused from ONE Saturday rehearsal. Any other circumstances need to be approved by the director. Please note that Decem ber 12th is the first rehearsal/read through. Regular rehearsals will begin in January. 334-734-6501 Nick Dijuilo: npd0011@auburn.edu

Tuesday, December 6

Little Sprouts

Columbus Botanical Gardens, 3603 Weems Road, Ga Little Sprouts is a 30-45 minute lesson on a feature of the Garden and it’s connection to nature/science. The class is designed as an exposure experience in which there are three parts: sit and get either through a talk, piece of literature or a presentation; exploration through a hands-on experience which can look like a game, scavenger hunt, data collection activity; a craft which ties the two experiences together. https://columbusbotanicalgarden.org/events/littlesprouts/

Wednesday, December 7

Columbus Symphony Orchestra presents Beethoven’s Eighth RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga What did Beethoven do between his glorious Seventh and the cosmic Ninth Symphonies? We have the answer. He wrote the vivacious, quirky Eighth Symphony, of course. Hear the Eighth and music for oboe and strings by Vaughn Williams and a lively work by young American composer Jessie Montgomery. www.rivercenter.org/event/cso-beethovens-eighth/

Creative Cubs

- 10:30 AM, Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn, Al Featuring storytime and artmaking for ages 3-5. www.jcsm.auburn.edu/event/creative-cubs-6/

Thursday, December 8

Nature Walk: Winter Birds

8:30 AM - 9:30 AM, Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn Join our guides for a peaceful morning walk as you take in the many sights and sounds of the Preserve. Nature Walks offer excellent opportuni ties to socialize and learn, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Nature Walks are for adults only and offered the second Thursday of each month. Pre-registration is not required. Each month features a new seasonal theme. Groups meet at the pavilion. Nature Walks are free (donations are welcomed) and are cancelled in the event of rain. wp.auburn.edu/preserve/event/naturewalk-9/2022-11-10/

Allman Family Tour

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, Al Allman Family Tour www.mpaconline.org/events/

Holiday Floral Workshop ($45 )

Dean Road Recreation Center, 307 South Dean Road, Auburn In this workshop, we will have everything you need to make a fresh greenery wreath or table

top flower box. Skilled artisans will guide you each step of the way. Both natural and artificial items will be available to decorate your wreath. Bring along a friend, family or a special someone. Come relax, cre ate and enjoy the holiday with us at the Dean Road Ceramics Studio. (334) 501-2963 edombrowski@auburnalabama.org

Friday, December 9

The Gatlin Brothers

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, Al Larry, Steve & Rudy: The Gatlin Brothers, are a Grammy Award-winning trio who have dazzled audiences for more than sixty-five years with a lifetime of noteworthy achievements in their storybook career. They celebrated the 40th anniversary of the multi-award winning single, “All the Gold in California,” in 2019.

www.mpaconline.org/events/

Sunday, December 11

Nate Bargatze: The Raincheck Tour

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, Al Larry Hailed this year as “The Nicest Man in Stand-Up,” by The Atlantic Magazine and a “Rising Star,” by CBS Morning, 2021 Grammy nominated comedian and podcaster Nate Bargatze is selling out shows across the world. www.mpaconline.org/events/

Tuesday, December 13

Family Discovery Hike: Winter Birds

3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn Join our guides for an educational adventure as you and your children take in the many sights and sounds of the Nature Cen ter. Discovery Hikes offer excellent opportunities to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Discovery Hikes are for families with children ages 5 to 12 and are offered the second Tuesday of each month. Each month features a new seasonal theme. Groups meet at the pavilion. Discovery Hikes are free (donations are welcomed) and cancelled in the event of rain.

wp.auburn.edu/preserve/event/family-discoveryhike-2/2022-11-08/

Saturday, December 31

Noon’s Day Eve

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn Come ring in the New Year a little early with our Noon’s Year Eve Celebration at the KPNC. This family-friendly event will feature a hike through our woods culminating with a special toast with sparklers to ring in the new year! Meet at the covered pavilion. Event will be canceled if there is rain or inclement weather. (334) 844-8091 Sarah Crim: natureeducation@ auburn.edu

Thursday, January 5

Jubilee

through Sunday, January 29, 2023 Alabama Shake speare Festival, 1 Festival Drive, Montgomery, Al. Playwright and director Tazewell Thompson brings an innovative and heart-stirring score to life with this uplifting a cappella tribute inspired by real life. The world-renowned Fisk Jubilee Singers shattered racial barriers in the U.S. and abroad, entertaining kings and queens. For more than 150 years, the bold a cap pella African American ensemble born on the campus

of one of the nation’s premiere HBCUs has blended their rich voices together to share a heritage of suffering, strength, and endurance. Featuring uplifting spirituals and hymns including “Wade in the Water,” “Ain’t That Good News,” “Swing Low, Sweet Chariot” and “Nobody Knows the Trouble I’ve Seen,” this a cappella performance will ignite audiences of every generation.

www.asf.net/jubilee-51

Saturday, January 7

The Black Jacket Symphony Fleetwood Mac Rumors

Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery, Al The gong resounds, the cur tain opens, and a heavenly scene is right before your eyes. Fairies emerge from a sea of billowing clouds. Mongolians ride on horseback across grasslands as vast as the sky. Classic stories of love and loss, of humor and heroic deeds, come to life. You will be amazed by how vibrant, exciting, and profound classi cal Chinese culture can be. www.mpaconline.org/events/

Monday, January 9

Jay Leno at the Gogue

Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 S College St, Auburn Acclaimed late-night host, admired stand-up comedian, best-selling children’s book author, lovable voice-over artist, pioneering car builder and philanthro pist, it’s no wonder Jay Leno is widely characterized as “the hardest-working man in showbusiness.” A tireless performer, Leno loves to test his humor on audiences across the nation, performing more than 100 live shows each year. Having passed the torch of The Tonight Show succession to Jimmy Fallon, Leno has increased his customary busy schedule of performances in top venues around the United States and abroad. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Tuesday, January 10

Family Discovery Hike: Winter Habitats

3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn Join our guides for an educational adventure as you and your children take in the many sights and sounds of the Nature Center. Discovery Hikes offer excellent opportunities to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Discovery Hikes are for families with children ages 5 to 12 and are offered the second Tuesday of each month. Each month features a new seasonal theme. Groups meet at the pavilion. Discovery Hikes are free (donations are welcomed) and cancelled in the event of rain. wp.auburn.edu/preserve/event/family-discoveryhike-2/2022-11-08/

Thursday, January 12

Nature Walk: Winter Habitats

8:30 AM - 9:30 AM, Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Aubur Join our guides for a peaceful morning walk as you take in the many sights and sounds of the Preserve. Nature Walks of fer excellent opportunities to socialize and learn, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful out doors. Nature Walks are for adults only and offered the second Thursday of each month. Pre-registration is not required. Each month features a new seasonal theme. Groups meet at the pavilion. Nature Walks

are free (donations are welcomed) and are cancelled in the event of rain.

wp.auburn.edu/preserve/event/naturewalk-9/2022-11-10/

Aquila Theatre: Julius Caesar RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broad way, Columbus, Ga In Aquila theatre’s striking new production, we are taken on a journey into a world of conspiracy and betrayal. This play reaches its climax when the two opposing sides meet in battle, where the fate of a nation hangs in the balance. www.rivercenter.org/event/aquila-theatre-juliuscaesar/

Friday, January 13

Pride and Prejudice RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga Jane Austin’s ultimate romantic com edy has stood the test of time. As the Bennet sisters try to navigate their way toward love and marriage, Austen humorously skewers the hypocrisies and absurdities of the English class system, and puts the thoughts and feelings of hr women characters front and center. Filled with unforgettable characters, this sharp social satire has it all: wit, romance and lots of dancing.

www.rivercenter.org/event/aquila-theatre-pride-andprejudice/

Saturday, January 14

Hi Lo Pro Rodeo

Columbus Civic Center, Columbus, Ga. 400 4th Street

For the first time ever in Columbus…Professional rodeo at the Columbus Civic Center. Hi Lo ProRo deo presents Rodeo Columbus, Professional Rodeo Cowboys Associate (PRCA) rodeo will debut in the Columbus Civic Center with Bareback riding, Saddle Bronc Riding, Bull Riding, Team Roping, Tie-Down Roping, Steer Wrestling, Girls Barrel Racing, rodeo clowns, and much more! Watch the best cowboys compete on the nation’s top stock right here in Columbus!

www.hiloprorodeo.com

Tuesday, January 17

Shen Yun

RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga Travel back to the magical world of ancient China. Experience a lost culture through the incredible art of classical Chinese dance, and see legends come to life. Shen Yun makes this possible by pushing boundaries of the performing arts, with a unique blend of stunning costuming, high-tech backdrops, and an orchestra like no other. Be prepared for a theatrical experience that will take your breath away.

www.rivercenter.org/event/shen-yun/

Friday, January 20

Young Sherlock through Saturday, January 21, 2023 Opelika Theatre Opelika Theatre Company presents a children’s pro duction. Save the dates!

www.opelikatheatrecompany.com

Saturday, January 21

Health and Fitness Fair

Frank Brown Recreation Center, 235 Opelika Road, Auburn Active Auburn is teaming up with our Adults 50+ Program to bring a health and fitness fair to the community in the new year! January is the perfect time to learn about local doctors, gyms, healthy eateries, and free public programs. This free event will not only have you leaving with information on how to be healthy, but you can also take part in free health screenings to make sure you start 2023 off on

the right foot! Do you want to have a booth at this year’s Health and Fitness Fair? Contact us for more information!

(334) 501 – 2940 Maura Toohey: mtoohey@aubur nalabama.org

East Alabama Arts presents Lviv National Philharmonic Orchestra of Ukraine

Opelika Center for the Performing Arts, 1700 Lafay ette Pkwy, Opelika From the Medieval city of Lviv on Ukraine’s western border with Poland, an orchestra dares to do the unthinkable: carry a message of hope across the world during a period of war and instabil ity. The ensemble’s resilience stands as a testament to its determination and the timelessness of the great works it performs with vigor, distinction, and artistry. Led by the dynamic Ukrainian-American conductor Theodore Kuchar, and joined by Ukrainian pianist Stanislav Kristenko, this will surely be a concert to inspire and a night to remember.

www.eastalabamaarts.org/upcomingevents/2023/1/21/lviv-orchestra

Crystal Gayle & Lee Greenwood

Gogue Performing Arts Center

910 S College St, Auburn One of the most popular and widely recognized female country singers of her era, Gayle was inspired to follow her own musical path by the success of her older sister, Loretta Lynn. Gayle’s supple voice, a flair for ballads, and crossover-friendly country-pop style netted her several main-stream hits, beginning with her 1973 debut single, “I Cried the Blue (Right Out of My Eyes).” In 1976, “I’ll Get Over You” became the first of Gayle’s 22 number-one hits, a run of success that peaked brilliantly with 1977’s “Don’t It Make My Brown Eyes Blue,” a number one hit on the country, pop and worldwide charts that won Gayle a Grammy for Best Country Female Performance.

www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Tuesday, January 24

Junie B. Jones Essential Survival Guide to School

RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga Now that Junie B. Jones has been going to school for over oneand-a-half years, who better to write the on EVERYTHING you need to know? Form the bus rules and Band-Aids to carpools to cookies, Junie B. and friends deliver the definitive word on surviving and thriving in style.

www.rivercenter.org/event/junie-b-jones-essentialsurvival-guide-to-school-2/

Thursday, January 26

Riverdance

RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga As you’ve never seen it before! A pow erful and stirring reinvention of this beloved favorite, celebrated the world over for its Grammy awardwinning score and the thrilling energy and passion of its Irish and international dance.

www.rivercenter.org/event/riverdance/

The Play That Goes Wrong

through Sunday, February 5, 2023 Springer Opera House, 103 Tenth Street, Columbus, Ga The title says it all. Welcome to the production of Murder at Haversham Manor put on by the very sincere but totally inept company of actors of the Cornley Drama Society.

www.springeroperahouse.org/springerproductions/ the-play-that-goes-wrong

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Friday, January 27

Miss Alabama USA & Miss Alabama Teen USA Pageant

through Saturday, January 28, 2023 Gogue Perform ing Arts Center, 910 S College St, Auburn Contestants from all over the state of Alabama will compete in interview, evening gown, and swimsuit/activewear competitions. These contestants will be vying for thousands of dollars in scholarships and prizes and the ability to travel the state promoting the pageant and its charitable alliances. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Saturday, January 28

11th

Annual Polar Plunge

Samford Pool, Auburn Sign up, dive in, and raise money for a great cause! Brave the cold at the tenth annual Polar Plunge on Saturday. SUPERHEROES will be the theme for this 11th Annual event. Recruit sponsors to support you as you take the plunge in support of Lee County Special Olympics. Individual and group costumes are encouraged – superherothemed! This event is presented by Auburn Parks and Recreation and Lee County Special Olympics. (334) 501-2939 Elizabeth Kaufman: ekaufman@ auburnalabama.org

Tuesday, January 31

Disney’s Winnie the Pooh Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 S College St, Auburn Join the Gogue in their 2022-2023 Family Series! In this musical adaptation for the stage, a new story from the Hundred Acre Wood is told with stun ning puppetry through the eyes of the characters we all know and love. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Every Monday

Opelika Public Library Movie Mondays Library@opelika-al.gov

Every Tuesday

Opelika Public Library Jr. Book Club

Be a part of an epic journey with Peter and Pax! Bring friends and make new ones with the Jr. Book Club as we explore with games, crafts, and reading! For students in grades 2-5. Library@opelika-al.gov

Every Wednesday

Opelika Public Library Baby & Me Storytime

Get the little ones bouncing and singing with colors, numbers, and shapes! Rhymes and stories will encourage them to discover the world around them! And there is always time to crawl and play! For ages 0-2 years old. Library@opelika-al.gov

Walk This Way Walking Club at Opelika Library

Join Anita at our Story Walk Trail to walk and talk about everything from community happenings to family, to good books, and anything else you want to talk about. All ages are welcomed and no one gets left behind. Library@opelika-al.gov

Every Thursday

Opelika Public Library Jr. Robot Crew Jr. Robot Crew will inspire kids of all ages by teaching them the tools to imagine and invent the future! Meet and talk with Dash and Dot through code! Dash and Dot can throw and pick up objects and the kids will teach them how! Don’t worry if you’ve never coded

before, Dash and Dot are here to teach you how! For students in Grades 2-5.

Library@opelika-al.gov

Read to a Dog at Opelika Library

4:00 PM - 5:00 PM, Sign up for your child’s 15-min ute appointment to read to a dog and make a new furry friend. Masks are required. We currently have two dogs visiting. Michael Fralich and his therapy dog, Mocha are here each Thursday. 207-333-6640

Every Friday

Opelika Public Library Storytime Library@opelika-al.gov

First and Third Fridays

Food Truck Friday

Downtown Opelika Enjoy dinner and drinks from downtown restaurants, bars & breweries, and up to five different food truck partners each week. Enjoy your brews, bites, and beautiful downtown Opelika. Check out the Opelika Chamber of Commerce online to find out who will be parked where, and what’s on the menu! www.facebook.com/opelika.chamber

Every other Saturday

Read to a Dog at Opelika Public Library

11:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Read to a Dog! Sign up for your child’s 15-minute appointment to read to a dog and make a new furry friend. Call the library to register at 207-333-6640, x3. Masks are required. We currently have two dogs visiting. Renee Brezovsky and her therapy dog. Meadow is a blue merle Australian Shepherd who is excited to meet you. 207-333-6641

Is It Okay to Hide Money

From My Spouse?

Q. After hearing you talk about financial infidelity, I have to admit that I hide money from my husband. I have been setting aside money for emergencies without his knowledge. He is not terrible with money, but he always seems to find something to spend it on. Before I started doing this, we never managed to save much money at all. But now I feel like I have been doing something wrong. What should I do?

A. I believe in saving up for emergen cies. I mean, I’m the guy who tells people to have three to six months of expenses saved in an emergency fund, right? But deception is never a positive thing in a relationship—especially a mar riage. You need to talk to your husband about this.

I know it won’t be easy for you, so you have to make sure you tell him in the

right way. Playing the blame game won’t help. Basically, you’ve been deceiving him about this. Sure, it sounds like he has been immature when it comes to your household finances, but you made the decision to hide things. You chose to do this instead of talking to him about your concerns.

Let’s start here. Tell your husband you need to talk to him about something important, and sit down together with no distractions. Explain what’s been going on, and that you’re sorry for not being honest about things, but you also need to speak up and tell him why you were doing this secretly. If you were afraid to disagree with him, tell him that. Tell him why, too, and let him know

you just want the two of you to have a successful financial future, and that you’re committed to never hiding things again.

Manag ing money in a marriage isn’t a “his” or “hers” thing. It’s a “we” thing. You can fix this, but it’s going to take some honesty, un derstanding and making an effort to work together toward the same goals— like saving or living on a written, monthly budget.

You each have a vote, but it also means you have to stand up and vote no if he wants to blow money on silly stuff when you guys don’t have your finances in order.

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

Enola Holmes 2

Netflix

Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs PG 13 B+ C A A C

Enola Holmes is on the case. Hired to find Sarah Chapman, who went missing after being falsely accused of theft at the match factory where she works, Enola’s quest will take her from high society balls to the slums and factories of Victorian London. En route, she will wind up working with her brother, Sherlock, as their cases intersect. Packed full of adventure and non stop action, this movie features appealing characters, impressive period detail, and a twisty plot. It also has some very intense violence so the PG 13 rating should be taken seriously. Photo ©Netflix

Till Theaters

Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs PG 13 A C A A B

When 14 year old Emmett Till was kidnapped and murdered in 1955, his mother insisted on an open casket funeral. The evidence of the brutality the boy suffered before his death horrified Americans and served as an impetus to the Civil Rights Movement. This movie is the story of Mamie Till, her agonizing grief and steely resilience. It can be heartbreaking to watch, with some violence and racial epithets but it also makes a critical period of history accessible to teen viewers. Photo © Universal Pictures

Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs PG-13 B- D+ A C+ A

With the death of King T’Challa, Queen Ramonda must protect her kingdom from the global powers that seek its vibranium resources. When the hunt for vibranium disturbs the undersea Tolakan kingdom, Wakanda is drawn into war and can only be saved by a new Black Panther. This film provides lots of action and escape into exotic locales but after awhile the endless spear battles and other violent contests get dull. There are also two plots, one of which is intriguing and the other ridiculous. Photo ©Walt Disney Motion Picture Studios

Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs PG A A A A- A

Struggling to adjust to his new city home, Elmer argues with his mother and runs away. He is swept off to the magical Wild Island where he must help a dragon named Boris save the island from sinking into the sea. Beautifully animated, this movie contains plenty of kid appropriate adventure. It’s also a sweet tale about friendship and has a plotline about overcoming fear that will help kids who struggle with anxiety. This clean, charming film is a great choice for family movie night. Photo ©Netflix

Rating Overall Violence Sex Profanity Alcohol/Drugs PG 13 B C A B A

Sophia’s wish comes true when she and her unwitting best friend, Agatha are carried away to the legendary School of Good and Evil. But Sophia’s convinced there’s been a mistake. She’s been assigned to the School of Evil when she wants to be a magical princess. Based on a YA novel series, this film delivers fast moving action and a lot of violence. It also provides probing questions about morals and ethics, which makes it worth watching for teens. Photo ©Netflix Photo ©Netflix

Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com

Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Theaters

My Father’s Dragon Netflix

The School for Good and Evil Netflix

Sara Seals

SS: I was born and raised in Atlanta, GA, came to (and fell in love with) Auburn in 2006 for college, and never left! I got my bachelor’s, master’s, and doctorate degrees in Economics from Auburn University. I am currently a full-time instructor for the Department of Economics at AU, teaching large lecture sections of Principles of Micro economics and Principles of Macroeconomics, as well as online sections for the Auburn First (dual enrollment) program. My hus band, Alan, is an Associate Professor of Economics at Auburn.

AOP: You work full time and have four children, one with special needs. Tell us more about that.

SS: I have two amazing stepkids in the 8th and 6th grades, a 6-year-old daughter in kindergarten, and a 4-year-old daughter in preschool. Our 6-year-old daughter was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder at the age of 2. As a result, our weeks are filled with not only the typical school drop-offs/pickups and after-school activities but different therapies (such as ABA, speech therapy, feeding therapy, and occupational therapy). Auburn has turned out to be a fantastic place to raise a child with special needs. Not only do we have a fantastic community of special needs moms and an incredible team of teachers and therapists, but our area continues to become more supportive with additions like the Town Creek Inclusive Park and Bitty and Beau’s in downtown Auburn.

AOP: Having step-children is such a gift. What do you feel is the most rewarding thing about being a blended family?

SS: Being a stepmom to our big kids has been the biggest bless ing. They are wonderful kids, the best older siblings, and are especially supportive and protective of their sister with special

needs. The most rewarding part of being a stepmom has been watching our big kids embrace and create relationships with my family and friends. Our house has a constant stream of loved ones staying with us for holidays, football games, and random weekends. It is so much fun being the big, blended family every one wants to visit, stay and celebrate with! Cooking, singing, and playing music are the favorite activities of my family and friends when they come into town, and it is wonderful seeing the big kids enjoy it all. They both partake in old traditions and are an integral part of creating new ones!

AOP: Your days seem filled with a lot of important activities. How do you manage it all and keep everything organized?

SS: Currently, my husband teaches on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, whereas I teach on Tuesdays and Thursdays. This allows for someone to always be on duty for pickups and drop-offs, as well as be available should one of our kids get sick. We rely heavily on my planner, wall calendar, and our shared Apple calendar, so we don’t miss any special events, classes, or appointments.

AOP: Being a mom often means putting everyone’s needs before your own, especially when you stay home all day. How do you take care of yourself?

SS: I love getting outside and going for a run or walk. I was having trouble finding time to do so on our busy weekdays until a friend told me her mom hack: to exercise while you are waiting on your kids! For example: when my youngest daughter is in ballet, I’ll run down to and around the adjacent park. Getting to gether with friends also gives me energy and joy, so I try to plan several outings per month. Last but not least, I love getting up before anyone else and writing in my planner with a cup of cof fee. It brings peace to my morning to look at what is on my (and everyone else’s) schedule and to-do list without distractions.

AOP: If you could go back and give one piece of advice to your younger self, what would it be?

SS: That how you do one thing is how you do all things. So take your time and be mindful of even the smallest of tasks.

AOP: Christmas celebrations are in full swing! Do you have any family traditions or big plans for the holiday?

SS: One of my favorite family traditions is the way we decorate our Christmas tree. Usually, the day after Thanksgiving, my husband and I will bring down the boxes of ornaments and take a seat while the kids hang the ornaments. One by one, they’ll pick up an ornament and we’ll reminisce about how that ornament made its way to our tree. My mother-in-law gets each of the kids an ornament that has a special meaning to them each year, so it’s always fun seeing their reaction as they open their newest ornament from her! I also love covering our kitchen table with craft paper and setting up Christmas activities and crafts for the kids. We love making ornaments for friends and teachers, mak ing gingerbread houses, and decorating cookies!

Sara Seals and her husband Alan have been married for seven years. She has two amazing stepchildren, one in 8th grade and the other in 6th. Together, Alan and Sara have two girls, one in kindergarten and one in preschool. She loves to run, her Peloton, and musical theatre. One fun fact about Sara is that she is an advanced, open-water scuba instructor.

AOP: What brought you to the Auburn area?