Contents December 2012 Volume 3 Number 10
Features 30
Gifts for Kids That Money Can’t Buy
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Holiday Happenings
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“I Think I Can”
During this season of giving, find out what children want (and need) more than anything on the toy store shelves.
Spend your holiday season out and about in Lee County making memories with your kids. Our guide tells you where to go!
Columns
Discover eight ways to encourage optimism in your children.
2 From One Parent to Another Kendra Sumner
4 Living With Children John Rosemond, Ph.D.
On The Cover
8 Kids Health Ellen Royal, M.D.
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Departments 6 Bits and Pieces
Dave Says
10 School Bits
Dave Ramsey
36 Get This!
40 Family Calendar
Paige Gardner Smith
37 Crafting & Cooking w/ Kids
48 Parent Previews
Dana Moonan
46 A Page in a Book Paige Gardner Smith
47 Parenting on the Plains Polly Dunn, Ph.D.
Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com
Carly Parker (12) is in 7th grade at Drake Middle School. This is her 3rd year dancing in East Alabama Community Ballet’s ‘The Nutcracker’. She enjoys sewing, cooking, and dancing. She is the daughter of Scott and Miki Parker of Auburn. A special thanks to the Estep family. Your home was a beautiful backdrop for ‘Clara’!
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Auburn-Opelika Parents Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source
Auburn-Opelika Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Auburn-Opelika Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Publisher Kendra Sumner kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com
Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@auburnopelikaparents.com
Associate Editor Kelly Watson
Director of Sales Justin Sumner justin@auburnopelikaparents.com or (334) 209-0552
Contributing Writers Polly Dunn, Ph.D. Dana Moonan Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Ellen Royal, M.D. Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. Paige Gardner Smith
Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com
President Jason Watson jason@auburnopelikaparents.com
Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 1204 Owens Road Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2012 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.
Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
From One Parent to Another... Our Christmas Tree was up and decorated by November 1st this year, thanks to a friend whose love and enthusiasm for this time of year became contagious. Her family begins their Christmas traditions of trimming the tree, hanging the stockings and lining up their Nutcrackers well before the Halloween candy has been sorted. This year, I embraced that spirit and began that new tradition, too. There is just something special about the holiday season that brings about a sense of renewal and joy. The twinkling lights and smell of cinnamon creates a feeling like none other. Family, friends, hope, thankfulness and giving are among the reasons I wanted to bring Christmas into our home early this year. Some of my favorite “mom” moments happen while the kids decorate the tree each year. As I hand them each an ornament to hang, memories overwhelm me. The handmade wreath that circles a preschool photo of Reagan, the painted snowman in a way that only Parker could have imagined it, the handprint of Ryley that was made into an angel and Porter’s choo-choo train symbolizing him being our little caboose. As each year’s memories are placed on the tree, I can’t help but notice that they have managed to hang them up higher this year. I use to joke that our tree was only decorated on the bottom half. It seems this is the first Christmas where the ornaments have filled the tree to the top. Those little hands and arms are now reaching far beyond those younger, toddler days. With only the topper left to complete the tree, the kids step back to admire their creativity. With a sparkle in his eye, brighter than the lights themselves, Porter is lifted by his daddy to place the angel on the very top. Excitement erupts and everyone feels proud of another successful tree display. I, on the other hand, look past the glitter and glow and see how quickly this year has gone by and find myself wanting to slow down and reverse time. As the kids rush off to create their Christmas wish lists, I quickly make my own. This year, all I want for Christmas is to give the kids what they really want...my time, attention and love! Even with their lists including the next big electronic hype, Legos, dolls and DVDs, ultimately, if you could read between the lines, the one thing that would matter above all else is spending time with family and friends. Playing that video game with Dad, building the Lego ship with a friend, playing dolls with her sister, and snuggly up with Mom to have movie night are the thoughts they have while making that wish list. Life can be very hectic and with work, school, activities and responsibilities consuming our days, it is hard to slow down and truly be in the moment with our families. With only a few weeks left in 2012, plan the days with giving them your time and love. In our feature article, Gifts For Kids That Money Can’t Buy, the author reminds us to put what really matters on that shopping list. Family connections for kids can be as simple as helping them to foster bonds with extended family. Let them make phone calls to grandparents, write letters to an aunt and arrange play dates with cousins. How about giving to those who have less this Christmas? Your kids can learn the value of giving by simply collecting canned food and delivering it to the food bank. Or make a festive card to take to an elderly neighbor while wishing them a Merry Christmas by caroling at their door. Children will learn the meaning of giving, all the while spending time with you. Also included is the 2012 Holiday Happenings Guide. Find a few great local events like a Christmas Parade, The Nutcracker Ballet, or Cookies with Santa where you can take advantage of time together as a family. Even though we can’t reverse time, we can slow down and make time to enjoy this season. When making your list to Santa, make family time, giving kids your attention, adding joy and peace in your home, and giving to others a priority. Teaching our children that the best things in life are truly free, and to give is more rewarding than to receive, is my wish for all. From one parent to another, Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!
Kendra
Kendra Sumner, Publisher
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Living With Children
By John Rosemond
Should We Discipline “Shy” Behavior as Bad Manners? Q:
Our 32-month-old daughter has always been outgoing and loves to be around people… until recently, that is. All of a sudden she has started lowering her head when we get together with people she doesn’t see very often and will refuse to say hi or be friendly. Is it reasonable to expect that she say hello? At what age should we start disciplining this behavior?
A:
Older toddlers and 3-year-olds—even previously outgoing ones—have a reputation for suddenly becoming “shy”in social situations. I’ve yet to hear a plausible explanation for this, so let’s simply say that it is what it is. At this age, “bad manners” of this sort merit neither concern nor discipline. I can, however, tell you that the more attention you pay to this by coaxing and talking to her about it, the worse it’s going to get. In fact, you and other people may be paying entirely too much attention to
her in what are actually “adult” situations. When you introduce her to someone, do so casually, even off-handedly. If she lowers her head, just tell the person, “She’s going through a shy phase…we don’t pay attention to it,” and proceed with the adult conversation. By not making her the center of attention this “phase” will pass in due time.
Q: My 3-year-old’s tantrums are becoming worse. She is also becoming “passiveaggressive” (whining, arching her back on the floor, refusing to stand or talk) when things don’t go her way. When these behaviors occur, I put her in her room and/ or put her to bed right after supper, but that doesn’t seem to be helping. Should I up the ante? A:
Nothing out of the ordinary here, and you’re handling her tantrums just fine. Just remember, doing the right thing in response to misbehavior does not guarantee the misbehavior will go away. In which case, you should just keep doing the right thing. Some kids get it more quickly than others.
Q: I have 6-year-old twin boys who tend to get rambunctious when playing with other boys. How can I teach them to control their behavior when around other ‘wild’ kids? Recently, one of my boys and an especially wild friend were jumping off the bunk beds and my son knocked a tooth out. I talk to them prior to a play date and explain the consequences of poor behavior (and I follow through afterward). This still is not working.
A: Girls play quietly with dolls and
dress-up; boys jump off their bunk beds and knock teeth out. If that’s the only injury a boy incurs during boyhood, he must be spending too much time watching television and playing video games. As you’ve discovered, punishment does not over-ride the need for a boy to be wild. When the wildness gets to be a bit much for your comfort level, call a time out. Put them at the table with crayons and paper for fifteen minutes. Let them calm down, then let them at it again. Above all else, put them outside as much as possible. That’s where boys belong anyway.
Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
bits & pieces 2012 Christmas on the Coosa
Hosted by the City of Wetumpka on December 8, the day begins with Christmas on the Coosa Character Breakfast from 7:45-8:30 a.m. for children under 12 years. Tickets are $2.00/ $4.00 adults. Line the streets of downtown Wetumpka for the annual Christmas Parade beginning at 2:00 p.m. The day will be filled with Christmas extravaganza of arts and crafts, food, quilt show, classic car show, entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk. Call the City of Wetumpka for more information: (334) 567-5147.
Homemade Cookie Sale to Raise Money for Habitat for Humanity
Cookies! Cookies! Cookies! For this Habitat for Humanity annual community fundraiser, the whole community gets into the holiday spirit of generosity and celebration. The Cookie Walk gets bigger and better every year. Folks come from far and near to buy fresh, delicious, holiday decorated cookies at this Habitat for Humanity fund raiser, sponsored by Auburn’s We Help Coalition of churches. Select from an array of 30,000 home baked holiday goodies for $6/lb. Santa will visit for photos! All proceeds go to build a house right here in Auburn! Saturday, December 1, starting at 8 a.m.-1 p.m. at Grace United Methodist Church by Kroger on Glenn Avenue in Auburn.
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Opelika Neighborhood Sponsors Luminary Drive
45th Annual Collinwood Luminaries sponsored by Collinwood Neighborhood in Opelika will be held December 20, from 5-9 p.m. The public is invited to drive through the candle-lit roads commemorating the path of Christ's birth with live scenes along the way. The luminaries follow a one-way route beginning on Collinwood Street at the intersection of North Tenth Street and Oakbowery Road. The tour winds through the entire Collinwood subdivision and ends on McLure Avenue.
Walk through Bethlehem at the Eclectic Christmas
A unique way to experience Christ this Season! It was the night that saved the world. Sent away because there was not room in the inn, Christmas was born in a stable. Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. In the atmosphere of an outdoor walking trail, you and your guests will be part of live drama that is set during the Roman Empire. As you walk through the streets on your way to Bethlehem, you will visit the field where shepherds received the angel’s message and news of the Messiah. Then visit the wise men as they journey in search of the New Born King. The walking tours begin December 7, 9, 10, and 11 at 6:00 p.m. This event will take place at 1733 Claud Road, Eclectic, just south of Eclectic on AL Highway 63. Reservations are suggested and may be made by calling 256.794.7789. Admission is free. Call 334-541-4444 to reserve a time or Verdie Nummy, 334-578-3301 for more information. Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
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Auburn and Opelika Hometown Christmas Parades
Festive floats showcasing local groups and business will be parading through downtown Opelika on December 1 to deliver Christmas Magic to all! Santa and Mrs. Claus highlight the parade’s finale! Find a perfect spot downtown Opelika for seeing the magic at 10:00 a.m. Join us on December 15 in downtown Auburn to celebrate the season with the annual Auburn Christmas Parade. The parade begins at 10 a.m. After the parade, enjoy the special events and holiday shopping offered by downtown merchants.
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The Forgotten Carols Coming to Auburn Performing Arts Center
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Returning to the Southeast for a second tour of the heart-warming musical, The Forgotten Carols, Los Angeles and New York cast members of the Theos Theatricals touring company, will perform the contemporary story of an empty life changed by a personal encounter at Christmas time. The production tells the story of Constance, a young nurse who sees the holidays as a meaningless distraction until she is assigned to care for an aged gentleman who believes that he has been alive for 2000 years and has met people from the Christmas story such as the innkeeper who turned away Joseph and Mary – those characters who have been forgotten. As he chronicles his encounters with his “forgotten carols”, he eventually touches the part of her heart that she had long ago forgotten. December 1-2 at the Auburn Performing Arts Center at Auburn High School. Tickets are available online at the following link http://auburn.brownpapertickets.com/ and can also be purchased at Auburn Performing Arts Center which is located at Auburn High School, 405 S. Dean Rd. Ticket costs include $15 for adults and $10 for students.
Shake things up this holiday season.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Kids Heal h
Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn
Holiday Giving
When we think of Christmas and the Holidays we often think of giving to others. This year, if you feel the pull at your heart to help others, act on it and involve the kids. Our area abounds with opportunities to help others. Remember that every bit helps, no matter how small. Kids can help to gather grocery items for food pantries in town. They can empty piggy banks to donate money to help. They can help shop for Christmas gifts for other kids (who else knows better what toy would be best?) They may even want to help a child in another country. Whatever the method, giving to others is a worthy endeavor as well as a valuable lesson to teach your children. Food pantries are a vital resource for those in our community who are low on resources to provide meals for their households. The Community Market of the Food Bank of East Alabama provides needy families with the ability to select their own food from the market’s shelves to take home. They are located in Auburn on Opelika Road and have an immediate need for food donations as well as volunteers. They accept nonperishable food items at the community market. They also need volunteers to help re-stock shelves. You can contact them at (334) 749-8844 or go to their website for more info at www. foodbankofeastalabama.com. Toys! Can you imagine a Christmas without toys for the children in your life? Many parents face the possibility of simply not having the money to pay for extra expens-
es like presents for their children. While this may not be a necessity, it certainly is a need for many. Many churches and businesses will organize toy drives during the Christmas season. My church has a giving tree and our kids love to pick a child’s ornament whose age and gender is similar to theirs. Then we go on a family shopping trip and they help select and wrap the gift. Toys for Tots (www. toysfortots.org) accepts toy donations as well. They are a charity of the U.S. Marine Corp Reserve and, each year, give away many toys. Some families may want to sponsor a family for Christmas. Churches and schools often know a family in need of such a special gift. Donating money to charities of your choice can involve the whole family as well. There may be a family who needs help with a power bill or groceries. Donation of clothing and especially warm coats that your child may not need to the local Salvation Army store or to the Department of Human Resources- Child Protection services is always appreciated. Many local churches have clothing closets for families to use in times of need. The American Red Cross is also a great charity to give money to as this helps supply relief efforts for people affected by disasters. Finally, consider giving to an international charity. I had the honor of visiting Orphanage Emmanuel in Honduras this past summer. The orphanage is run by missionaries David and Lydia Martinez who take care of more than 600 children who are unwanted or orphaned. As in most third world coun-
tries, there is no social safety net to provide for these children, and so, many of them live on the street, scavenging for food and surviving anyway they can. Orphanage Emmanuel provides food, clothing, shelter and safety for these kids. Visit their website at www. orphanageemmanuel.com to learn more about how to help. A few other worthy charities are Heifer International and World Vision. Donations to Heifer International go to buy farm animals for hungry families around the world. Donations to World Vision International go to help them transform communities, respond to disasters and advocate for those in our world who live in poverty. Consider charitable giving this season. You can truly make a difference in someone else’s life. All the doctors and staff at Auburn Pediatric Associates wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays! Dr. Ellen Royal attended the University of South Alabama College of Medicine for her medical degree and graduated in 1994. She returned to Alabama the summer of 1998 to join the pediatric practice of Dr. Richard M. Freeman. Dr. Royal is a member of the Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is board certified in Pediatrics. Dr. Royal is married to Dr. Kevin Royal who practices Internal Medicine in Opelika and they have three children.
www.AuburnPediatricAssociates.com Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Dean Road Student is Honorary Guest at Camp ASCCA Benefit
Donovan Bradsher, son of DeeDee and Hal Bradsher, was an honorary guest at a recent charity event for Easter Seals’ Camp ASCCA. The event was sponsored by The Student Bar Association of Faulkner University’s Jones School of Law. Other special guests included Coach Gene Stallings, a former coach for The University of Alabama. Pictured is Donovan with his teacher, Libbi Holden, and Coach Stallings. Donovan is a fifth grader at Dean Road Elementary.
Yarbrough Elementary Invites Parents to Lunch
To celebrate National School Lunch Week, Vicki McLure, Yarbrough Elementary School Child Nutrition Manager, invited parents to eat lunch with their children on Wednesday, October 17. Mrs. McLure and her staff served over 200 parents and 355 students. To add to the festivities, the first grade class decorated chefs' hats to wear for the luncheon. What a great way to promote nutrition, and healthy choices!
Wacoochee Students Show Team Spirit
In honor of Smiths Station High School’s homecoming week, Wacoochee Elementary students dressed in their favorite football jerseys to show TEAM SPIRIT. Ms. Jordan’s fifth-grade class showed their love of football by wearing jerseys from Alabama, Auburn, Georgia, and Tennessee.
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Beulah Seniors Recognized for Character
Congratulations to Beulah High School seniors Jonathan Anderson and Hunter Rogers. Both of these young men were recently recognized by Judge Fellows as recipients of the Character In Action Awards in a ceremony held at the Lee County Justice Center on October 18th. Pictured are Jonathan and Hunter with Judge Mike Fellows presenting their awards in the family court.
Southview Holds Red Ribbon Week Poster Contest
Southview Primary School recently celebrated Red Ribbon Week with "The Best ME is Drug Free" poster contest. This was a part of a week-long celebration with dress up days including “Wake Up to a Drug Free World ” ( PJ day), " Sock it to Drugs” ( silly socks day), "Vote “NO” to Drugs” ( Patriotic colors day), “My future is BRIGHT, I don’t do Drugs ( bright colors day) and "Team Up against Drugs “– (favorite team colors day). The winners for the poster contest by grade level are: Kindergarten - Justin Shorter (not pictured), Sara Kate Speakman, Karina M. Perez; 1st grade - Braiden Johnson, DeAndre Harris, Christine Fuller; 2nd grade - Jhomarria Card, Addison Hickox, Bryce Speakman. Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
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2012-2013 Opelika High School Emissaries
The OHS Emissaries are the official hosts and hostesses of Opelika High School. They serve as greeters at school events and community functions and volunteer at events throughout the school system. The 2012-2013 Emissaries are: back row (l-r) Deion Darby, Brandon Lockhart, John Dukes, and Gavin King. Front row L-R: Martevia Bledsoe, Erin Slay, Mary Dawson, Savannah Morgan, Katherine Parr, Shelby Prestridge, Meg Larsen, Tillie Drost, and Carami Garrett.
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AU Gymnasts Visit West Forest Intermediate School
Members of the Auburn University Gymnastics Team recently visited the students at West Forest Intermediate School. They talked with the students about working hard, setting goals and letting no one stop you from doing what you love. They also talked about their own school experiences regarding reading and math and how tutors helped them with those subjects when needed. Pictured with the AU gymnasts are the fifth grade students of the month: Jacori Grooms, C'Niya Sistrunk, McCall Hardegree, and Terrian Battle.
Congratulations to the Liles Smiles no cavity winners! Annalee Adams Harris Adams Ariel Almond Adam Al-Riyami Zain Al-Riyami Jeremiah Arenas Javerious Askew DeAzia Avery DeJon Avery Adaiah Banks Jasper Banks Avery Beard Maddox Beard Madison Berry Trace Berry Emily Biaz Rim Biaz MaKenzie Black Daniel Blackburn Darian Blackburn Devan Blackburn Trushawn Boleware Ian Brackett Mar’Ryah Briskey Issaiah Brodenave Trendon Bordenave Jalecia Brooks Raegan Brooks Aleah Browder Ethan Browder Nathan Browder Bladon Brown Mathias Burke Lila Calhoun Malekai Calloway Ethan Campbell Kate Campbell Jayden Cannon Tremayne Cannon Tremarion Cannon Eva Caponetto Majulisia Carr Kensley Carter Kenneth Carter Nadia Carter NyAsia Chambers Ellie Church Glenn Church Sara Church Abigail Clark Ailayah Clark Baylor Clayton Kayden Cochran Jamie Collins, Jr Detrych Curtis Stella Curtis Taylar Francis Collins Clay Cooper
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Allison Correia Miranda Correia Dylen Crisp Seth Crisp Caroline Crum De’Unte Curtis Kelli Daniel Weslee Daniel Connor Davis Danielle Doughtie Ethan Doughtie Kailey Dowdell Kamyiah Dowdell Cameran Dulaney Claire Dulaney Marquise Dunlap Collin Earle Garrett Earle Oakley Fetner Taylor Fields Trent Fields Beau Finklea Hampton Finklea John Spencer Finklea Daleah Finley LaDazah Finley Julian Fitzpatrick Ke’Mari Foley Melvin Foley Brady Forbus Carley Forbus Toby Forbus ShaKerra Forbes ShaTerra Forbes Levi Foster Nathan Foster Wilson Foster Chamiere Freeman Brian Funk Trinity Funk Ava Garcia Seth Garcia Lexzoria Gay Scarlett Gibson Jacquline Godinez Marley Golden Jacquelyn Gonzalez Luke Gonzalez Dominick Graves Madison Graves Camryn Griggs JaCarius Gullatte Julie Hall KeMare’ Harrington Qua’Shawn Harvey Audrey Henderson Anareo Huang MaKayla Kaltreider Mallory Keesee
Jacob Kent Caleb Kent Halle Kirkland Akashia Knight Keijah Hamilton Reese Hansel Andrew Harris Mar’Quasia Harris Qua’Shawn Harvey Jesus Angel Hernandez Alli Henderson Donquavious Hill Auston Hodge Ja’Quavion Holloway Michael Holloway Trinity Hooks Ivanah Hourizene Ju’London Jackson Jacoby Jefferson Jayden Jefferson Helen Jimenez Amanda L. Johnson Riptavious Johnson Taylor Johnson Aaliyah Jones Hollis Jones Jacoreus Jones MaLiyah Jones Cheyenne Landman MaKenzie Lee Kenneth D Lewis Janaya Lockhart Takira Lockhart Jayden Logan Cohen Lyles Jaden McKelvey Summer McKelvey Aerial Miller Kelian Mitchell Harlee Morris Jaxon Morris Jordyn Morris JaKayla Moss Matthew Mottern Tyler Lancaster Dylan Landreth Madison Avery Larimore Madison Leonard Takira Lockhart Bryan Lugo Jostin Lugo Huntley Marshall Madeline Marshall William Marshall Jackson Mathis Peyton Mathis Sawyer Mathis Denzell McCray
Landon McGregor Jackson Minor De’Janique Mitchell Johnna Mitchell Ly’John Mitchell Jara Montiel Juan Alvarez Montoya Culver Murphree Aiden Neman Ethan Neman Trevor Neman Caroline Northcutt Kate Northcutt Ella Grace Ogilvie Gunter O’Rear Jack O’Rear Sadia O’Rear Robert Pack William Pack Kentravion Patten Je’montez Patterson Alicia Peralta Angel Perez Litzi Perez Sarah Perez Jalin Phillips Marcus Philpot Montrevious Poole Ellie Prewett Marilyn Price Tyson Prince Gavin Raines Xavi Daniel Ramirez Tiffany Rassamountry Emily Ray Noah Ray Derick Reap Mark “Tre” Redden Victoria Redden Myles Redmond Cristian Reyes Jamie Reyes Samantha Reyes James Riley, Jr. Margaret Rodman Alejandro Rodriguez Jonah Rodriguez Joshiah Rodriguez Jasper Rogers Justine Rogers Trae Rowland Emmie Rudd Gracie Rudd JaLiyah Rudd Lillie Rudd Arvid Sanchez Haley Sawyer Kamari Scott Keagan Shaw
ZayShawn Simmons Brooklyn Singleton Donovan Sparks Addisyn Spears Brianna Spencer Aaron Spivey Paige Spraggins Jasmine Stokes TyParis Story Jeremiah Stribling Kayla Stribling McKenzie Stribling Jonah Studdard Isabella Studdard Titus Studdard Sunjay Sudan Kydaelan Swanson Tristan Tatum Cheyenne Taylor Javoris Taylor Arianna Thomas Ariel Thomas Destiney Thomas Allie Thompson Caleb Thornton Ephraim Thornton Hannah Thrash Justin Tirado La’dell Towns Kierra Trammell Nevaeh Tucker Brodie Turner Gracie Valdez Oriel Vines Teresa Wagoner Bailey Ward Lillian Welcher Lily White Darius Whitlow Jar’Keciya Wilkerson Azyria Wilkerson Dylan Willard Ashton Williams Braxton Williams Alecia Williams Alexis Williams Justin Williams Kaydan Williams Lila Williams Areona Wilson Carter Wilson Deyarlo Wilson, Jr Jayda Wilson Courtney Wynn Ryan Henry Zapp Kaden Zimdahl August Zuanich William Zuanich
Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Cary Woods Box Top Contest Winners
Ms. Handley's class, from Cary Woods Elementary School, won our 1st Quarter Box Top Contest. Her class brought in $135.40 worth of box tops. Our school has brought in over $1,100 since the beginning of the school year.
Wrights Mill Road Celebrates 50th Birthday with Flash Mob Video
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Wrights Mill Road celebrated their 50th birthday with a Flash Mob video! All the students wore their birthday shirts and gathered in the courtyard for the end of the video were we had a big celebration!
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Trinity’s Second Grade Studies Native Americans
Trinity Christian School’s second grade class has just concluded their study of Native Americans. During this study, they learned about the life of a Native American such as how they dress, where they live, and how they act. The second grade even built models of the various houses they lived in. They also were able to see actual artifacts from various tribes in the Eastern Woodland and plains region brought in by our headmaster, Mr. Carl Warmouth. These artifacts have been passed down from his father who found these items during his lifetime and consist of different types of arrowheads, knife blades, adzes, stone mortars, game pieces, and much more. The second grade had a wonderful time learning and understanding part of our history by studying the Native Americans.
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Auburn Classical Academy Students Attend Veterans’ Day Ceremonies
Auburn Classical Academy third through eighth graders attended Veterans’ Day ceremonies at Veterans’ Memorial in Auburn.
Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com.
Auburn Costume Contest Winners
Kaylee Rush Won 1st Place Most Original as “Barbie” at the 12th Annual Downtown Trick or Treat, in Auburn. Brittney, Keith, and Benjamin Ray dressed up as "Knight, Queen, and Dragon" won 1st Place in the Best Dressed Group. Emily West w/ Mogly won 1st Place Best Dressed Individual as “The Lion Tamer.”
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
D C Auburn High School Holds Poetry Out Loud Competition
Auburn High School recently held its fourth Poetry Out Loud competition. Sixteen students competed. 3rd place went to Natasha Narayanan, 2nd to Doris-Anne Darbouze, and our Poetry Out Loud Champion for the 2012 2013 school year is senior Megan Zartman (who recited "Requests for Toy Piano" by Tony Hoagland. Megan will go on to represent Auburn High School at Regionals on November 29. Winners pictured right to left: Megan Zartman, Doris-Anne Darbouze, and Natasha Narayanan.
Lee-Scott Academy’s Homecoming Queen
Darela Rodriguez was named Lee-Scott Academy's 2012 Homecoming Queen. Darela is the daughter of Mike and Susan Speakman.
Water Gun Fun at the Wrights Mill Road Run
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Wrights Mill Road held its annual fundraiser the “Wright Run” Friday, September 28. Duck Tape Man strikes again at the Wright Run. Stone P. a fourth grader at Wrights Mill Road got sprayed with water while running.
Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: kendra@auburnopelika parents.com. It’s FREE!
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Trinity Soccer to Compete at Nationals
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Trinity’s boy’s varsity soccer team is headed to nationals! After thirteen games, this hard working group of young men is set to compete in Dayton, Tennessee at the NACA tournament. Our undefeated team has put many hours of blood, sweat, and tears into achieving this opportunity. The teams will contend from October 30- November 2 for the title of victor. We look forward to seeing the Eagles bring back a championship with humble attitudes! Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
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Dean Road Elementary Celebrates Good Books
Dean Road Elementary recently celebrated “Book Character Day.” On Book Character Day, students dress as a character from a favorite book and bring the book to share with the class. Many activities are held school-wide throughout the day that are planned specifically to celebrate good books! Pictured is third grader Gracie Wilson, from Mrs. Taylor’s class. Gracie dressed as Pocahontas.
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Richland Students Visit Mad Scientist Lab
5th grade students at Richland Elementary learned about the human body at the Mad Scientist Laboratory. Students were able to make blood from beans and rice, observe blood samples on the digital microscope and listen to their heartbeat with a stethoscope. Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Decades Day at Wrights Mill Road
Wrights Mill Road held Decades Day, to celebrate Red Ribbon Week. Third graders pose with Mrs. Brinkley ; Ben, Lily, Emily, Ragan, Mary, Deinbo, Anja, Jayden, and Lyle.
Ogletree Elementary Pumpkin Contest
Ogletree Elementary School students were given a challenge to estimate the radius and weight of a large white pumpkin, which had been carved by Dr. Delano's son. The pumpkin was displayed in the media center for all students to see. After many wonderful guesses, one student (or class) from each grade was named the winner. From 1st Grade; Mrs. Goodling's class, 2nd Grade; Anna Grace Sessions, 3rd Grade; Reagan Gamble, 4th Grade; Luke Holmes and 5th Grade; Harrison Harper. Congratulations estimation! Final Lakeview Preschool Ad 11/10/11 7:09on PMyour Page 1 Winners were given a gift certificate for the Fall Book Fair.
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Opelika High School FFA Pitches in for Pups
The Opelika High School Future Farmers of America (FFA) collected over $4600 in cash, food, and supplies for Rescue K9-1-1, a no-kill animal shelter owned by Loraine and Larry Weaver of Camp Hill, AL. Over the last eight years, students at OHS have donated over $60,000 through the Pitch in for Pups campaign. Each year, the FFA students raise money through their annual plant sales, face painting, coin collections and other fundraisers. The FFA and SGA co-sponsor “Pound the Tigers” during Beat Auburn Week and monetary amounts are assigned to food and supplies that are brought in by students who compete among extra-curricular groups as well as classes. The SGA won the 2012 Club Competition and received $250 which they donated back to Pitch in for Pups. The Senior Class won the class competition, keeping the class trophy and pounding the Tigers with the most dog food collected per class. Pictured, “Riley” from Rescue K9-1-1 gives his approval of the donated items. Rescue K 9-1-1 is a rescue for lost, homeless or abandoned animals in the areas in and around Lee and Tallapoosa County. Animals are treated and cared for by the Weavers and their many volunteers, which includes the OHS FFA. OHS FFA officers spend at least one Saturday morning per month volunteering at the rescue. Animals are adopted through an application process. For more information, go to www.rescuek911.com .
Opelika Middle School Students Spend Day at Pumpkin Patch
Students from Mrs. Heyward-Williams and Mrs. Moore's classes at OMS spent October 26 visiting the Jack-O-Lantern Lane Pumpkin Patch in Lafayette, Alabama. Their day consisted of hayrides, petting farm animals, shucking corn, and picking a pumpkin to keep. Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Ogletree Students Take Acorn Challenge
Ogletree Elementary School 5th grade students in Mrs. Parrish's science classes participated in the Acorn Challenge during the month of October. While out in nature, the challenge was to find the largest acorns. Winners of this year's contest were Blake Riggs, John Wesley Rogers, Aaron Jones, Harrison Helton, Benjamin Farmer, and Brennan McNeely.
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MMA Students Promoted to Yellow Belt
Auburn Mixed Martial Arts Little Champions Students were recently promoted to Yellow Belt. Pictured, back, left to right, Shane Mills (Instructor), Hunter Lashley (Instructor), Keith Johnson (Instructor), Randall Phillips (Instructor). Front row, left to right, Carson Riddle, Braden Williams, Bethany Smith and Andy Roberts (Instructor).
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Trinity Welcomes New Teachers
This school year, Trinity Christian School has not only welcomed many new students but four new teachers as well. As hard as it has been saying goodbye to our third grade teacher, Sandy Ballew, and high school math and science teacher, Jon Myles, we are very excited to obtain Christin Frazier, Cindy Hollis, Johnny Berry, and Heather Hardin. Mrs. Hollis will be taking over the third grade and Mr. Berry the high school math and science. Trinity has made a few additions this year, not only including Mrs. Frazier’s position from teacher’s aide to Kindergarten teacher but the installment of an art program taught by Mrs. Hardin. Mrs. Hollis has previously taught in both public and private schools, while Mr. Berry taught science at Sparkman High school in Huntsville, Alabama. Our four teachers have all completed college, while some are continuing their education further. Mrs. Frazier and Mrs. Hollis have achieved their bachelor’s, Mr. Berry is currently studying for his masters, and Mrs. Hardin is working to achieve her P.H.D. all in education. Though our teachers have various backgrounds and work experience, they all have one main goal and that is to train our students to become “virtuous scholars who think clearly, listen carefully, discern wisely, reason persuasively, and articulate precisely -- all with an eagerness to glorify God and enjoy Him forever.” We look forward to a wonderful year as we welcome Trinity’s new teachers.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
W Beulah FCA Participates in Local Dodgeball Tournament
Students from Beulah High School Fellowship of Christian Athletes organization gathered for an area dodgeball tournament at Smiths Station High School. The dodgeball team consisted of Brandon Waido, Dustin Howard, Lane Hodges, Ashley Remmel, Sarah Chandler, Bradley Dunson, Davis Owen, JoJo Czerniak, Dakota Overton, Issac McCarty, Erin Blackmon, Austin Hodge, Ty Welcher, Alani Hodge, and BHS Assistant Principal David Owen. Beulah High's FCA was well represented with students rising early Saturday morning for a 7:30 a.m. departure to SSHS. Congrats to the Bobcats for having one of their teams place fourth in the field which included multiple teams from surrounding schools as well as adult teams that competed in the tournament. The event was sponsored by East Alabama's FCA district.
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Southview Assembly Concludes Red Ribbon Week
Southview Primary School concluded a week-long celebration of Red Ribbon Week with an assembly. Office Fuller, OPD Dare Officer and McGruff the Crime Dog stopped by to talk with the students about the importance of saying "NO to Drugs". Opelika High School cheerleaders kicked off the assembly with Drug Free cheers. Pictured are Southview Second graders, Addison Hickox, Shamiracle Dunn, Jania Hartley, Lauren Lee and Natalie Hickman, Officer Fuller and OHS cheerleaders.
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Wacoochee Celebrates Parent Involvement
Wacoochee Elementary School celebrated Parent Involvement Month during October with two PTO sponsored events – Muffins for Moms and Doughnuts for Dads. Parents, grandparents, and students were treated to food and drinks in the media center. Thank you to all who came and participated in this annual event.
Wrights Mill Road Holds 50th Birthday Celebration and Ribbon Cutting Event
4th graders at Wrights Mill Road patiently wait for the ribbon cutting ceremony for the new pavilion. The Wrights Mill Road Honor Choir performed at the 50th birthday celebration ceremony.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Richland Students Experience Oregon Trail
3rd grade students at Richland Elementary were able to experience the Oregon Trail. From real Oxen to making butter and even dealing with hardships along the way, students learned what it was like many years ago!
Red Ribbon Week at Dean Road Elementary
Dean Road Elementary celebrated Red Ribbon Week recently. Red Ribbon Week is a week each year dedicated to educating young people about the dangers of illegal drug use. The theme at DRES this year was CHOOSE. Students were encouraged to “choose someone.” Many students wrote about the people they can turn to for support and good advice - teachers, parents, coaches, and grandparents. Students were encouraged to “choose something.” Teachers stressed healthy activities like sports, art, dance, and music that can keep us drug-free. Students were encouraged to “choose change.” Boys and girls were given encouragement to make positive changes in the world like recycling, volunteering, and helping others. Pictured are second graders, Neal Trotman and Hope Sanders, beside the CHOOSE display board.
Lee-Scott Cross Country Teams Place in State Meet
The Lee Scott Academy JV Cross Country teams traveled to Montgomery on Monday, October 15th for the AISA JV State Cross Country Meet. The JV girls won First Place. The JV boys tied for first, but then ended up second with the tie breaker. Individual winners for the girls were Claudia Tucker first in the state, Emily Stone third, Hannah Grace Wood sixth, Brooke Hilyer eighth, and Lauren McLeod ninth. For the boys, Ethan Lowery was second, Davis Whittelsey third, Buck Dean in eighth, and Walker Styron ninth.
AEEC Annual Trike Ride Fundraiser
Students at Auburn Early Education Center enjoyed a fun day of trike riding during their annual Trike Ride Fundraiser. Each classroom rode tricycles around the front of the school as their classmates cheered them on. The students were encouraged to get sponsors/donations for the laps. The fundraiser was another huge success for the school, not to mention, fun for all! Pictured is Mrs. Shope's class from the Orange Pod. Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
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Wal-mart Rewards Southview Primary School As a part of the fourth annual Teacher Rewards Program, the Opelika Walmart recently donated $1000 to teachers at Southview Primary School. The teachers were treated to cake and refreshments by representatives from the Opelika Wal-mart during their faculty meeting. Presenting the donation to Southview Principal Laura Hartley are Wal-mart representatives (l-r): Ronda Kindred, Sherman Alexander, and Amy Spraggins.
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Martial Arts Students Participate in Tournament in Montgomery
Auburn Academy of Martial Arts recently participated in the 8th Annual Capital City JAM tournament in Montgomery. They are very proud to have received the Team Trophy for the Small School Division (1-5 participants). Participants entered a total of 8 divisions. Kerry Killingsworth received 1st in sparring and 2nd in forms; June Milford received 1st in sparring, 2nd in breaking and 3rd in forms; and Gabriel Au received 2nd in sparring and 2nd in forms.
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Shugar Bowl Champs
The Auburn Youth Football Association held the 2012 Shugar Bowl on Tuesday, Nov. 13 at Duck Samford Football Stadium. The Shugar Bowl is the Auburn Youth Football Association's league championship and began in 1974 to honor legendary AU Coach Ralph "Shug" Jordan. This year’s Shugar Bowl was sponsored by Auburn Bank, Auburn High School Athletics, Knology, and Prudential Real Estate. In the 10 - 12 year old division, the Speaks Land Company Saints defeated the Play It Again Sports Raiders by a score of 32 - 0 to claim the title. Speaks Land Company Saints (Champion) Overall Season Record 9 - 1. The team consists of: #1 - Kennis Williams, #2 - Ben Beesley, #3 - Parker Draughon, #4 - Austin Downey, #5 - Deon Strickland, #6 - Austin Shealey, #7 - Tristan Pittman, #8 - Will Young, #9 - Cade Rickerson, #10 - Griffin Speaks, #11 Mohamoud Diabate, #12 - Carter Crum, #13 - Caleb Kariuki, #14 - Cameron Chavis, #30 - Chris Rodgers, Head Coach: Tim Speaks, Asst. Coach: Cale Young. Play It Again Sports Raiders (Runner-Up), Overall Season Record 7 - 3, #1 - Trent Thompson, #2 - Thompson Vise, #4 - Garrison Guthrie, #5 Wade Starr, #6 - Kimbell Nappier, #7 - DJ Miller, #8 - Harrison Wright, #10 - Quinnus Fletcher, #11 - Tre Bledsoe, #12 Tanner Guthrie, #13 - Kordin Pogue, #14 - Jaden Johnson, #30 - Jae’ McCurdy, Head Coach: Wayne Bledsoe, Asst. Coaches: Jeff Johnson & Joe Nappier.
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Wal-mart Truck Drivers Raise $1000 for Jeter Primary School
As a part of the "Safe Miles Invested in Local Education" program, the Wal-mart transportation office in Opelika selected Jeter Primary School to receive a $1000 donation. The joint objective of the Safe Miles program is to promote safe driving and contribute money for schools during the period of time leading up to the start of a new school year for millions of students across the country. Wal-mart's Private Fleet truck drivers are among the safest professional drivers in the country. During the week of August 11 through August 17, 2012 the Wal-mart Foundation pledged a financial contribution to a local school for each accident-free mile driven by each of the company's 7,200 tractor trailer drivers. During last year's program, Wal-mart transportation offices nationwide contributed more than $130,000 to schools in their communities. "Safe Miles Invested in Local Education is just one of the many ways Wal-mart supports education across the country," said Keith Windham, General Transportation Manager at the Opelika Wal-mart distribution center. "It's also a great way to engage all of our drivers in raising money for our local schools. This program serves as a great reminder to each of us that children are returning to classes and all drivers need to watch carefully for school buses and school children." Pictured: Principal Jeanie Miller and the Jeter Students of the Month accept a check for $1000 from Wal-mart General Transportation Manager Keith Windham.
Auburn Classical Academy Students Count Their Blessings
Auburn Classical Academy first and second graders began this holiday season with a Thanksgiving program for parents. They read aloud a book about the first Thanksgiving and offered prayers to God in gratitude for countless blessings.
Trinity Christian School Class Experiences Phonograph
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The second grade class at Trinity Christian School has studied of the inventions of Thomas Edison. One of Thomas Edison’s most famous inventions is the phonograph. Not only did they learn of this invention as well as the metal and wax tube “records,” but they were able to hear and see an actual phonograph. Dr. Susan Wright, a parent of one of our students, brought in an Edison Standard Phonograph in working order and dating back to the 1900’s. The children were able to see her put the cylindrical record on the player, wind up the player, assemble the speaker, and hear the way it sounded. We are very thankful and appreciative to Dr. Wright for her time and desire to further our second grade’s education of the phonograph.
Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com.
Stampede to Read at Cary Woods
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These rootin'-tootin' PTO cowgirls deserve a huge thank you! Cary Woods Elementary School's fundraiser was a great success! These cowgirls helped to keep the fun and motivation going with daily awards, prizes and recognition to all the student readers!
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Cary Woods Teacher of the Year
Congratulations to Sandra Beisel who was nominated as the Cary Woods 2012-2013 Teacher of the Year. Sandar is shown here with her family who surprised her during the morning news at Cary Woods.
Growing Room Holds Food Drive
Growing Room held their annual holiday food drive for the Food Bank of East Alabama. The children did a great job of encouraging their parents to bring in non-perishable food items this year! Growing Room’s K4Plus class is shown with all the food donated!
Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Dave Says...
By Dave Ramsey
Tithing Without Telling Q.
I’m a Christian, but my husband is not. However, we still budget a small amount to give to the church. I started working a part-time job recently, and would like to tithe on this income. Is it okay to do this without telling him?
A.
No, it’s not. Do you really think you’d be honoring God by tithing on this income while at the same time creating a situation where you’re dishonoring your husband by hiding things from him? That’s not a good idea. Your husband has already shown respect for your beliefs with his agreement to make tithing a part of your budget. I think you should return that respect and let him know you’d like to give a portion of your new income. Besides, you wouldn’t be tithing out of his
income in a situation like this. It would just be a small portion of the new, additional income you’re generating. Remember, too, that not tithing isn’t a sin. God doesn’t love you more when you tithe, and it’s not a salvation issue. He wants us to be givers because he knows what it does for us on the inside. It makes us a little more Christlike when we put the wants and needs of others ahead of our own. So sit down with your husband and explain your feelings on the issue. He doesn’t sound like an unreasonable guy. But regardless, you shouldn’t deceive someone just because you don’t see eye to eye on everything.
Q. I lost my job a couple of weeks ago, and I’m having a tough time find-
ing part-time work to bridge the gap until another position comes along. I’ve got a masters’ degree, and I’ve been wondering if that’s hurting my chances in the interim. I’m really eager to stay on track paying off my debts. Should I dumb down my résumé?
A. Honestly, if it’s only been a couple of
weeks, I think you probably just haven’t found the right thing. There are lots of people out there with big-time résumés who have been forced to go part-time in today’s job market. It’s not unusual right now for UPS or FedEx managers to see people with your level of education wanting to throw boxes. Whether they’re trying to get out of debt or they’re unemployed or underemployed, it’s just part of the economic strain the country’s going through at the moment. I really like your drive, though, and the fact that you’re actively trying to find a solution to your problem tells me that you’re the kind of person who won’t be denied. Because of this, I think some really good things will begin to happen for you in the coming weeks and months. But let’s not go down the path of omitting things from your résumé. Think about what would happen if your boss discovered you hadn’t truthfully represented yourself and your background? I know if it were me, I’d have to wonder if I could really trust someone who did that. Dave is the author of The New York Times bestselling book Financial Peace. He is also the host of the nationally syndicated The Dave Ramsey Show. You can hear Dave online at www.daveramsey. com. Send your questions to askdave@ daveramsey.com. He resides with his wife Sharon and their three children, Denise, Rachel, and Daniel, in Nashville, Tennessee.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
kids’ deeper wants and needs, instead of getting caught up in the “more is more” consumer culture. Give your kids these gifts money can’t buy– they’ll grow with your kids for a lifetime.
Gifts for Kids...
That Money Can’t Buy by Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD
In the hustle and bustle of holiday shopping, it’s easy to feel pressured by your kids’ latest material wants. Store displays and commercials have even the youngest kids clambering for bright and shiny new toys. If your child’s wish list adds up to more than you can afford and
you’re tempted to spend money you don’t have, give yourself a time out. “Our kids do want more than material things,” says Betsy Taylor, Founder and President of the Center for a New American Dream in her book What Kids Really Want That Money Can’t Buy. Taylor encourages parents to focus on meeting
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Listening. Kids have a lot to share with the world, but our busy work-school routines make meaningful conversations difficult. Talk with your kids about their lives (school, friends, interests, dreams). Invite kids to share their ideas by asking good questions. “What do you think we should do about…?” or “If you could change one thing…?” are helpful conversation starters. Then, listen deeply. Make eye contact with your child. Take it all in without interrupting. Ask follow up questions and share your ideas, too. Kids love to feel important and respected in conversation.
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Friendship. Kids want friends and have a deep need for acceptance. Help your child make new friends or strengthen existing friendships. Welcome your child’s friends into your home by hosting informal play dates or sleepovers. Kids build relationships by sharing experiences, so include kids’ friends in fun family activities, like baking cookies, playing games, or staging a talent show. There’s no need to entertain your kids and their friends every minute. They’ll treasure time to themselves and appreciate your respect for their privacy. Family Connections. Kids need to feel a part of an extended family network. Grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins and siblings are important figures in kids’ Advertising: 334-209-0552
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lives. Help your kids connect with far away family members through phone calls or email. Allow kids to make cards or gifts for special relatives. Encourage grandparents, aunts and uncles to spend time with your kids (and without you). Kids’ confidence and self-esteem grow in proportion to the number of caring adults in their lives. Arrange activities to share with cousins and siblings. Family members are friends, too.
lose touch with the special magic of the earth. Help your kids reconnect through outdoor play. Visit wild places close to home – lakes and streams, parks and meadows. Build snow forts or collect pine cones together. Watch squirrels scamper. The gift of nature isn’t fancy or expensive, but your children will treasure it just the same.
Opportunities to Change the World.
Kid Time. Kids want free time not cluttered by school, homework, have-to-do activities and programs. Help your kids unwind, learn and grow by protecting precious kid time. If their schedules are crowded by extracurricular activities, consider cutting back. Review the amount of homework expected of your child, and be his advocate if necessary. Too much work makes kids tired, cranky and unmotivated. Give kids ample time to play or putter without specific tasks to accomplish.
Kids dream of a world where people get along in harmony, everyone has enough to eat, and each unique individual is valued. Help your kids practice service and compassion. Work together to sort used toys or clothing and donate them to charity. Collect canned goods in your neighborhood and deliver them to a food bank. Rake leaves or mow lawns for elderly neighbors and give the proceeds to a local environmental conservancy. Keep track of kids’ contributions so they see the big impact they have on others’ lives.
Nature. Kids love the natural world and
Love and affection. More than any-
connect deeply with fields, forests, and animals. As we spend more and more time indoors at school, daycare, and home, kids
thing else, kids want to feel loved. They thrive on parents’ undivided attention. Hugs and kisses, tickles and tousles, and
pats on the back are especially valued. Don’t wait for a special occasion to show your child how much she’s loved and how proud you are. Slip a special note in your child’s lunchbox or backpack. Ask for one of his very special hugs when you are feeling down. Small and big kids alike want to see and feel love in tangible ways. As you take time to meet kids’ psychological needs, you’ll build stronger, more resilient family relationships. But kids’ material wants won’t disappear over night. Letters to Santa and other giftgiving traditions focus kids’ attention on material things. “In the end, we need to help our kids regularly consider if they really want or need any given item – and why,” Taylor concludes. “Perhaps the most fundamental question to instill in your kids is this one: How much is enough?” Be a good role model – don’t buy what you don’t need. Slow down and rediscover life’s simple pleasures with your kids. After all, in the ways that matter, you’re already wealthy beyond measure. Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD is a contributing writer.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Teddy Bear Tea
Children and parents alike are invited to the annual Teddy Bear Tea at Piccolo, December, to gather around the fireplace for tea sandwiches, sweets, tea and hot cocoa. A real live Teddy Bear will also be there for everyone to snuggle up to. Each child will also be presented with a special teddy bear to take home with them. For additional information about the Teddy Bear Tea, please call (334) 844-5140.
Auburn/Opelika Clara’s Tea Party
November 30. A perfect mother/daughter or grandmother/granddaughter holiday outing! Come dressed in Tea Party Fabulous or Holiday Fancy and mingle with your favorite Nutcracker characters. A beautifully decorated holiday scene provides the perfect backdrop for unique holiday card photos! Children’s holiday craft activities are planned along with delicious tea party fare for children and adults alike. Times and tickets, www.eacballet.com.
2012
The Nutcracker Ballet
Presented by the East Alabama Community Ballet. December 7-9, Auburn University Telfair Peet Theatre. There is no more festive way to start the holiday season than by experiencing the holiday ballet classic that is the Nutcracker. www.eacballet.com
6th Annual Holiday Art Sale
The Auburn Arts Association, Auburn Parks & Recreation, and the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center will host the 5th Annual Holiday Art Sale on Saturday, December 8 from 9:00 am- 4:00 pm. at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Local artists will be selling paintings, pottery, stained glass, photography, cards, jewelry, hats, scarves, and much more! If you would like to sell your work, applications are available online at www.auburnalabama.org/arts by clicking on the special events button. Applications are also available at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Free to the public. For more information, please contact the Arts Center at 501-2963 or email Cari Philen, Art Education Specialist, at cphilen@auburnalabama.org. Interested in participating in the Holiday Art Sale as a vendor? Applications are available online at auburnalabama.org/parks.
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6th Annual Loveliest Village Christmas Tour
Just for Kids Auburn Parks and Recreation
25th Annual Daddy-Daughter Date Night Tickets go on sale- Monday, December 10, 8:00am at Dean Road Rec Center, $30/per couple and $5 additional child. Dance will be February 7-9, 2013. This is a night for memories! Dads and daughters, enjoy an evening of dancing, refreshments, pictures, and surprises! Put your best foot forward in our dance contest and don’t miss your chance to take home one of several door prizes! Last year, this event SOLD OUT, so be sure to purchase tickets early. Join us for one of three nights of music, memories, and fun! Holiday Field Trip to the Montgomery Zoo Join your friends and Auburn Parks and Recreation for a fun-filled visit to the Montgomery Zoo on Wednesday, December 28 from 9:00am-3:00pm! Ages 3rd-6th graders. See over 700 animals from five different continents, all housed in natural, “barrier free” habitats. Bring a brown bag lunch and we will picnic with the giraffes. The cost of the trip is $15, payable in cash on the day of the trip. Participants will meet at the Dean Road Recreation Center. Don’t delay -registration ends Thursday, December 21. For more information on the holiday field trips, contact 501-2930.
13, 3:30-4:30pm at the Covington Rec Center. Ages 6-10yrs. Fee: $10. Christmas Wreaths Join us at the Covington Recreation Center, Opelika for an afternoon of decorating Christmas wreaths to hand on your door for the holidays. December 5; 3:30-4:30pm. Ages: 5-12 years. Fee: $15. Holiday Camp December 22. 8:00am-12:00pm. Opelika Parks and Recreation. Games, activities, treats and lots of fun! Ages 5-10. Fee: $10. For more information, call the Opelika Sportsplex & Aquatics Center, 1001 Andrews Road, Opelika. 705-5560 Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express November 29-30. 5:00-8:00pm. Municipal Park, Opelika. Ages 2nd grade and under invited. Food, hot chocolate, entertainment and train rides through the holiday lights. Therapeutics Christmas Ball Celebrate the holidays and feel like a king and queen for the day dressed in your Christmas best! The event is sponsored by Opelika Parks & Recreation and EAMHMR and will be Friday, December 14th from 6:008:00pm at the Covington Recreation Center, 213 Carver Avenue, Opelika. 705-5550.
Santa’s Arrival and Story Time with Mrs. Claus!
Opelika Parks and Recreation
Cookies with Santa at The Village Mall. Join Santa for cookies and milk on December 8, 9:00-10:00am. The first 150 children to sign up at Chick-fi-A inside the mall can meet and greet Santa!
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Christmas Crafts Make and take your own Christmas crafts, on December
December 8-9. Sponsored by the Auburn Preservation League. Features a rare peak inside the beautiful interiors of 10 Auburn homes and buildings. Tickets for the tour, which will run from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. Saturday and 1:00 p.m. until 4:00 p.m. Sunday can be purchased for $20 at the Auburn Chamber of Commerce.
17th Annual Cookie Walk
Cookies! Cookies! Cookies! For this Habitat for Humanity annual community fundraiser, the whole community gets into the holiday spirit of generosity and celebration. The Cookie Walk gets bigger and better every year. Folks come from far and near to buy fresh, delicious, holiday decorated cookies at this Habitat for Humanity fund raiser, sponsored by Auburn’s We Help Coalition of churches. Select from an array of 30,000 home baked holiday goodies for $6.00/lb. Santa will visit for photos! See you early for best selection! All proceeds go to build a house right here in Auburn! Saturday, December 1, starting at 8:00am-1:00pm at Grace United Methodist Church by Kroger on Glenn Avenue in Auburn
18th Annual Christmas in a Railroad Town
Friday, December 7, 6:00-9:00pm. The Historic Downtown District celebrates “Christmas in a Railroad Town” in conjunction with the Victorian Front Porch Tour. This event converts Railroad Avenue into a Christmas wonderland festival, featuring all sorts of fun activities for the whole family, along with music, hot wassail and a variety of other holiday treats. Children love the miniature train rides and the time they can spend with Santa and Mrs. Claus; and everyone loves the wagon and/or trolley rides that take folks from the historic downtown district through the Victorian Front Porch tour in an “old fashioned” way.
Advertising: 334-209-0552
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26th Annual Holiday Bazaar, Art & Antique Show
Sponsored by the United Methodist Women’s Ministry. Saturday, December 1, 9:00am-3:30pm, Auburn United Methodist Church. Shop for handmade crafts, jewelry, ornaments, art, antiques, food and other holiday gifts. Come shop or to register a booth, contact Charlotte Brennan at 209-1079 or aumwbazaar@aol.com.
A Crafty Christmas
BigHouse Foundation is a non-profit ministry in Lee County Alabama that meets the needs and improves the quality of life for children in foster care. A Crafty Christmas Craft Show for a Cause will be Thursday, November 29, 6:00pm-9:00pm in The Cotton District in Downtown Opelika. Jingle in the Holiday Season with this opportunity for the public to help raise money for BigHouse while Christmas shopping for gifts and decor from local vendors and businesses. www.ourbighouse.org
Annual Holiday Poinsettia Sale
The Junior League of Lee County is offering beautiful poinsettias to enhance the holiday décor of any business or home. By purchasing a poinsettia, you are supporting art and literacy programs for Lee County’s Children. 6.5” Poinsettias (6-8 blooms) at $12 each & 10” Poinsettias (18-20 blooms) at $22 each in Red, Ivory, Marble, and Pink. Orders will be taken from October - November 1st, with pick up at Elk’s Lodge in Auburn on December 1, or for orders of 10 or more plants, we offer free delivery on November 16 and 30. If you are interested in placing an order, please contact the Poinsettia Committee at www. juniorleagueofleecounty.com to receive information and a pre-sale form.
Auburn Chamber of Commerce Christmas Parade
Jump into the Christmas spirit and help spread the yuletide cheer by taking part in the annual Christmas Parade, December 15 at 10:00am. Spread the spirit of Christmas throughout Auburn, as Santa pays his annual visit. After the parade, enjoy the special events and holiday shopping
offered by downtown merchants. For float entry forms or more information, log onto www.auburnchamber.com
City of Opelika Christmas Parade
On December 1, festive floats showcasing local groups and business will be parading through downtown Opelika to deliver Christmas Magic to all! Santa and Mrs. Claus highlight the parade’s finale! Find a perfect spot downtown Opelika for seeing the magic at 10:00am.
Collinwood Christmas Luminaries
Collinwood Subdivision shares the season with visitors to its annual Luminaries Tour held one night each holiday season- December 20. This wonderful drive through tour features luminaries along the route that leads to the nativity scene at the end of the tour – reminding us all that Christ is why we have Christmas! The luminaries follow a one-way route beginning on Collinwood Street at the intersection of North Tenth Street and Oakbowery Road. The tour winds through the entire Collinwood subdivision and ends on McLure Avenue.
Holiday Wreath Workshop
Join us Saturday, December 1, 2:00-4:00pm, at the Ham Wilson Arena inside the Louise Krehler Forest Ecology Preserve, 2222 North College Street, Auburn, for a fun morning of making beautiful wreaths or sprays with natural elements for your holiday enjoyment. Music and delicious snacks will make the morning festive. Limited to first 25. Choose wreath or spray when registering. Please specify if bringing child and age. Fee: $20 per wreath or spray. Registration is required; Call 502-4553.
Toys for Tots Drive- Sponsored by The Auburn Department of Public Safety
Designed to assist families in the Auburn community by providing Christmas gifts to needy children ages one through ten. Anyone wishing to register a child to receive a gift can do so at the Auburn Police Division on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 10:00-11:00 a.m. To be eligible, a parent or legal guardian must provide their
picture ID, the child’s social security card or birth certificate, and two of the following three: current light bill; water bill; or lease agreement. The last day to register a child is November 30. Donation drop off: Any Auburn Fire Station or the Auburn Police Division located at 161 North Ross Street. Thanks to the generosity of Uncle Bob’s Self-Storage two remote drop off points have also been established at their stores located at 1231 Gatewood Drive and 2020 South College Street. The gifts must be new but do not need to be wrapped. Remember, no gift is too small. Contact Debra Hoyett at the Auburn Police Division, 501-3129. .
Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour
Visit an Ole World Christmas wonderland and see more than 60 turn-of-the-century Victorian homes adorned with life-size Santas, angels, toys, and other figures. Enjoy live entertainment, carolers, costumed homeowners and other festivities. December 5-9, in Opelika. Lighted driving tour December 7-9 & 11, 5:00-10pm. Walking tour December 10, 6:00-9:00pm. More information, please call 334-887-8747. Free event.
Valley /LaGrange 4th Annual Children’s Christmas Celebration
Children are invited to Hills & Dales, LaGrange, Ga., December 15, 9:30am-1:00pm, to see Santa, decorate a gingerbread house and Christmas ornaments, hear stories and songs from Robin Treadwell, visit with Santa and share in fresh cider and cookies. All children’s activities are free. Tours of the home decked out for the holidays are available at regular price. 706-882-3242.
Christmas Holidays at Hills & Dales Estate
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
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
and the visitor center will be decorated for the holidays from December 1 through December 22, Tuesday to Saturday. Regular tour prices apply. 706-882-3242.
concert features the Atlanta Symphony Brass Quintet and tenor Bradley Howard. www.rivercenter.org
Christmas Village
December 7, 6:30-9:30pm. Join the orchestra for a concert celebrating the Christmas season and featuring special guests who live among us in the Chattahoochee Valley. It’s a perfect concert for the whole family and will include numerous pre-concert activities including the man himself--you guessed it--Santa Claus! RiverCenter for the Performing Arts.
Beginning the first weekend in December, experience the spirit of the Season in Historic Valley, Al. There’s the 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 children and adults, too. As you take a walk through history, you will be greeted with Christmas caroling and much more festive fun. Exit 77 and left on US Hwy 29. cityofvalley.com
The Nutcracker
Presented by Troup High School Fine Arts Center. November 30-December 1, 7:00pm. and December 2, 2:00pm. One of the most popular ballets in history and a Christmas classic. Come be captivated by the story of Clara and her magical nutcracker.
Follow The Shepherds Christmas Walks & Under The Bethlehem Star Light Show
Experience the Christmas story in a whole new way. Join a guide as you walk from Nazareth to Bethlehem, learning new insights into the Christmas story in the most unique, authentic setting surrounding areas, as well as live actors and animals. Friday and Saturdays, December 7-24, 6:00-7:00pm. Explorations in Antiquity Center, 130 Gordon Commercial Dr., LaGrange. 706 885-0363.
Phenix City / Columbus 6th Annual Broadway Holiday
Broadway Holiday returns for its fourth flurry-filled celebration on December 3! Join us for the ceremonial lighting of Columbus 40-foot tree in the 1100 block of Broadway at 6:30 PM. From the main stage, choirs will herald the season alongside a visit from Santa and his reindeer. New this year, we salute the jolly one with the first ever Broadway Holiday Santa Convention, your chance to dress the family like Mr. & Mrs. Claus. Wear your merry best and walk down Broadway with Santa’s entourage to start the show. Our other new edition is the Tuna Christmas Tacky Sweater Contest. Winner of the Tacky Sweater Contest receives a Springer Opera House Tuna Christmas Prize Pack! Meet on 10th Street between Broadway and First Avenue at 6:00pm to join the procession. Santa Hat required! Help us celebrate the most wonderful time of the year! For info, Carrie Standridge706-322-1613 or cclark@visitcolumbusga.com.
21st Annual Fantasy in Lights
The most spectacular holiday light and sound show in the south begins November 16- December 30! Nestled amidst wooded landscape of Callaway Gardens, Fantasy In Lights is the Southeast’s most spectacular holiday light and sound show with more than eight million twinkling lights celebrating the holiday season. This spectacular show has attracted almost two million visitors since it opened in 1992. With more than a dozen larger-than-life lighted scenes, Fantasy In Lights remains unique in that its scenes are custom-designed especially for Callaway Gardens–to celebrate not only the joy of the season but the wonder of nature in this idyllic setting.Drive your car or ride the Jolly Trolley to experience scenes like March of the Toy Soldiers and Snowflake Valley. At Robin Lake Beach, enjoy ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas’ and ‘The Nativity’, light and sound shows enticing passers-by to stop, reflect and enjoy. Sunday, November 21, the annual March of Dimes Walk – one night each year is reserved for walkers only to hike the winter wonderland of Fantasy In Lights. No vehicles allowed! For tickets and more information, www.callawaygardens.com.
A Cantus Christmas
December 17, 7:30pm. This regularly sold-out tradition tells the Christmas story with musical masterpieces and audience carols. The professional chorus Cantus Columbus presents the eleventh installment of Message of the Season—Music of the Masters in Legacy Hall. The
Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
“Christmas in the Valley”
Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival
Join Mickey Mouse and his band of friends, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck and Goofy will be performing in a music mash-up of mega proportions when Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival debuts at the Columbus Civic Center on December 17, 4:00pm.
Reindeer Run
Ho Ho Ho… Go! It’s the Annual Children’s Miracle Network Annual Reindeer Run! All kids from Pre-k to the 8th grade are encouraged to run. December 8, in downtown Columbus. Call 706-660-6548.
“Tuna Christmas”
Celebrate Christmas in Tuna, Texas, with its quick changes, fast-paced humor and heart-warming moments of sincere Christmas joy. Texas’ third smallest town is in the throes of its annual Christmas yard display contest, which promises to have Tuna in an uproar and have you laughing out loud. Columbus’ most popular show ever; over 35,000 served. December 13-23; Springer Opera House. www.springeroperahouse.org
Victorian Christmas
The National Civil War Naval Museum hosts programs on Christmas at sea during the Civil War, sailor life, period music, hospitality and shopping in the Museum store. Saturday and Sundays in December, 1:00-4:00pm. www.portcolumbus.org
Alex City/Lake Martin An Eclectic Christmas
A unique way to experience Christ this Season! It was the night that saved the world. Sent away because there was not room in the inn, Christmas was born in a stable. Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. In the atmosphere of an outdoor walking trail, you and your guests will be part of live drama that is set during the Roman Empire. As you walk through the streets on your way to Bethlehem, you will visit the field where shepherds received the angel’s message and news of the Messiah. Then visit the wise men as they journey in search of the New Born King. The walking tours begin December 7, 9, 10, and 11 at 6:00 p.m. This event will take place at 1733 Claud Road Eclectic, Alabama, just south of Eclectic on AL Highway 63. Reservations are suggested and may be made by calling 256.794.7789. Admission is free.
Annual Holiday Open House
Presented by the Alexander City Chamber of Commerce, local businesses open their doors to showcase the season’s most festive decorations and merchandise. December 2, 1:00-4:00pm; 256-234-3461.
Annual Hometown Christmas Parade
One of East Alabama’s largest parades featuring elaborate floats, dancing groups, marching bands, horse-riding clubs and Santa Claus highlight. December 3; 6:00 p.m. Downtown Alexander City.
Christmas Market
The Children’s Harbor Lodge, December 1, 8:00am1:00pm. 334.857.2133
Santa & Mrs. Claus and Tree Lighting
The Alexander City Chamber of Commerce is bringing Santa and Mrs. Claus to downtown Alexander City, De-
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cember 2, 1:00-4:00pm. Bring the kids and your camera to make your own pictures on Santa’s lap as they let him know what they’d like to find under the tree Christmas morning. The, the Chamber and MainStreet invite Santa & Mrs. Claus to light the Christmas tree in front of the Bud Porch Center at 4:30pm. 256-329-3461.
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21st Annual Christmas Light Festival
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Thousands of Holiday Lights illuminate The Montgomery Zoo in shapes of animals and Christmas themes. See the beautiful displays by train or by foot. Enjoy live entertainment, food, gifts and pictures with Santa. Opening nights will be December 6-10; December 1330. 5:30- 9:30pm each night. (334) 240-4900; www.montgomeryzoo.com
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7th Annual Interfaith Christmas Nativity Exhibit
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Help your family keep the true meaning of Christmas in your heart from the start by attending this Community Celebration of the Birth of Jesus Christ. This spectacular event features nativities from around the world and special music by local performers. This magnificent display is sure to warm the hearts of young and old alike. November 28-December 2; 3460 Carter Hill Road, Montgomery. Open to all. FREE Admission. Sponsored by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints. www.MontgomeryNativity.com
Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents “A Christmas Carol”
ASF revives this family classic, November 23-December 23! The snowy London streets ring with carols that set the stage for Dickens’ magical tale of hope and redemption. Join us as the ghosts of the past, present and future reawaken Scrooge’s conscience.www.asf.net
City of Montgomery Christmas Parade
December 7- Depart from Cramton Bowl and Parade downtown from Capitol Steps to the Court Street Fountain. 6:00pm.
Cruising with Santa
Cruise the Alabama River with Santa on the Harriott II Riverboat, Downtown Riverwalk. December 8-10 & 15-18. (334) 625-2100.
F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum Christmas Open House
Come join us, December 22, as we celebrate Christmas with our Christmas Open House! There will be hot and cold drinks, warm music, Christmas cookies and rumors of sugarplums. The perfect event for a family outing. 9:00pm - 5:00pm. www.fitzgeraldmuseum.net.
Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Open House The 1907 Governor’s Mansion will be aglow with lights and filled with the spirit of the season. December 3, 10, & 17. 5:00-7:00 p.m.1142 South Perry Street, Montgomery.
Old Alabama Town Holiday Open House
Join Old Alabama Town in December to celebrate the holiday season. Our house museums will be authentically decorated for the holidays. Enjoy a special exhibit in the Reception Center. December 12, 5:00-8:00pm. 1-888-240-1850. www.oldalabamatown.com.
Prattville/Millbrook/ Wetumpka 12th Annual Mistletoe Market
More than 40 vendors offering the best in holiday
Advertising: 334-209-0552
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gifts, including: Clothing, Accessories, Home Decor, Children’s Items, Gift Baskets, Food Gifts and MORE! November 2-3 doors open at 9:00am. Downtown Prattville at the Doster Community Center. Sponsored by Prattville Downtown Unlimited.
Christmas at the Alabama Nature Center
December 15. For the regular price of admission, ANC guests can visit with Santa, hike over 5 miles of trails, make a Christmas craft and enjoy a snack around a roaring fire. 1-800-822-9453.
Christmas on the Coosa
“City of Natural Beauty” Christmas extravaganza with arts and crafts, parade, food, quilt show, classic car show, entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with Santa ski-in and a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk. December 8, Gold Star Park & the Courthouse Veranda, Wetumpka. 334-567-1313 or 334567-4811. www.wetumpkachamber.com.
Christmas on the Coosa Ball
December 15, 7:00-11:00pm at Wetumpka Civic Center. For tickets, www.cityofwetumpka.com
Millbrook Christmas Parade and Arts & Crafts Come celebrate the spirit of Christmas with arts and crafts vendors in the Village Green Park, December 1, 9:00am – 4:00pm. The parade starts at 2:00pm down Main Street. For more information call 334-285-6428.
Prattville Christmas Parade and Tree Lighting
December 1; 4:30pm/5:00. Parade starts downtown at the Autauga County Courthouse.
Wetumpka Tree Lighting & Progressive Nativity and Luminaria
November 30. Downtown Wetumpka and Gold Star Park. www.cityofwetumpka.com
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Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
The North Pole Express All aboard! Next stop - the North Pole! “All Aboard” says the conductor, as your train ride begins. Families are sure to enjoy their trip to the North Pole, complete with a reading of The Polar Express™ and chocolate milk and cookies served on board the train. Upon arrival at the North Pole, Santa and Mrs. Claus visit everyone on the train and each child will receive the “First Gift of Christmas”, just like in the story. Sing Christmas carols as you return to the depot. Wear your pajamas! The excursion will last approximately one hour. First class service to the North Pole! The Silver Maple and Kayenta railcars will offer first class service - hot chocolate in a souvenir mug, special dessert treat, premium gift and specialized service. Wear your pajamas! November 23-December 17. For tickets, www.hodrrm.org. Santa Claus Special at The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum Santa rides the train with you! Tell him what you would like for Christmas as he poses for photos. Each child will receive a Christmas gift! November 23-December 16. For tickets, www.hodrrm.org.
Atlanta Area 2012 Children’s Christmas Parade
December1, 10:30am-12:00pm, at Centennial Olympic Park, Downtown Atlanta, Ga. Surprise your kids this year by taking them to see the Southeast’s premier Holiday Parade! The annual Children’s Christmas Parade has been a holiday tradition in Atlanta for years, and features award-winning Marching Bands, Holiday Themed & Animated Floats, giant Helium Balloons & a grand finale featuring Santa Claus. The Atlanta Children’s Christmas
Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com
Parade begins at Peachtree Street near Baker Street. The route follows Peachtree Street and turns right onto Marietta Street. It will then turn left and end on Centennial Olympic Park Drive.
Holiday in Lights
Centennial Olympic Park’s annual Holiday in Lights is an Atlanta tradition and celebrating its thirteenth anniversary season this fall. In November, the Park transforms into a winter wonderland with thousands of lights that make up the dazzling display. Different and unique every year, Holiday in Lights runs through the first week of January. The Park is open daily, November 19-January 27, to view the lights from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m., including Dec. 25, Christmas Day, and there is no charge for admission. Come celebrate the 2011 holiday season by taking a stroll through the glowing 21-acre Park or a spin around Atlanta’s only outdoor ice skating rink located amongst the glittering lights on the Great Lawn.
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After you experience the Park, enjoy holiday specials at restaurants and other attractions.
Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park
Snow Mountain is Atlanta’s first snow park! The 2012 season opens November 19-February 18. Atlanta’s Stone Mountain Park transforms into a winter wonderland with Snow Mountain. Bundle your family up and get ready for snow tubing, snowballs, snowmen and snow angels. Based at Stone Mountain Park’s famous Laser Lawn, Snow Mountain keeps your entire family busy for hours. A 400’ foot tubing hill and a snow play area filled with a blizzard of snow activities make Snow Mountain Atlanta’s not-to-be-missed winter attraction. There’s even a play zone reserved for your littlest snow bunnies. Snow Mountain’s state-of-the-art snow-making magic guarantees you tons of fresh snow daily. And with two Mountain SnoLifts to get you up the tubing hill, you’ll want to go again and again! www.stonemountainpark.com AOP
Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Curiosity: About Our Solar System
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
With the recent excitement about the successful landing of the Curiosity rover on Mars, it’s the perfect time to support children’s interest about what is ‘above and beyond’ the atmosphere of Earth! From developing a nodding acquaintance with the constellations to supporting a more developed understanding of the planets, stars and man’s study and exploration of the same, there are amazing toys and gadgets that foster and encourage young minds to expand into the spaces in between and reach for the stars!
by Paige Gardner Smith
Fisher-Price Imaginext Space Shuttle and Tower
National Geographic Kids Power Telescope
Sparking a little one’s imagination about space can be as easy as putting the means to leave Earth into their hands, While the voyages are imaginary, the power of this play set to spark imagination is real. The upright design of the launch assembly, with an elevator in the tower, an accessible cockpit and two astronauts boost the realistic sensibility of this play set. The roar of the rockets’ launch and other sound effects add another interactive level when the shuttle takes flight. With a launch setup very similar to actual space shuttle launch pads, the Imaginext Space Shuttle and Tower are just the beginning of a pretend-play journey that can rocket young minds to the stars and beyond.
There are a host of telescopes available for earthly and extra-terrestrial viewing, but finding one that is easy enough for pre-teens to use, yet advanced enough to actually study planets and stars can be tough. The National Geographic Kids 375x Telescope is a full-size refractor telescope with good optics that range from 25x magnification to 375x. The tripod is adjustable for height and the finder scope makes aiming at far away objects easier for novices. Easy enough for newbies to start with, but equipped for astronomy buffs to look longer and farther, this is the telescope to start the family’s visual journey into space.
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Space Exploration Mobile
3-D Solar System (University Games)
Even though it’s ‘lights out’ at bed time, there’s no reason why young minds can’t look up for a while and ponder our solar system gently glowing in their own room. The 3-D Solar System includes the collected planets of our solar system (even Pluto – who’s still family in our mind!). Using the room’s ceiling light as the “sun”, we hung the planets in order from Mercury all the way to Pluto in the far corner of the room. Rendered with glow-in-the-dark plastic and colored to mimic the actual appearance of the planet, it becomes easy to discern each unique planet and learn their order from the sun. Tapping each planet and naming it quietly after lights out became a bedtime routine for us – and taught our kids the planets’ name and order by age 4. Simple, inexpensive and educational – the 3-D Solar System is also a gently glowing reminder to sleepy minds that there will be a big, ole universe waiting for them to explore when they wake up.
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(Perisphere and Trylon Games)
Some kids set their sights on the stars early, so it’s worthwhile to share with them the elements of the ‘race to space’ and the evolution of technology that has allowed man to reach further into the recesses of space. From Sputnik to the International Space Station, the steps along the way included the Mercury, Soyuz, Apollo, Skylab, Space Shuttle and Mir missions in between. And all of these lofty projects are represented in this motorized mobile as they rotate around a color-wrapped, illuminated Earth. Less about the stars and planets and more about the journey to get closer to them, this is an ideal entertainment and cool room decoration for any youth with an eye trained on space!
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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Craft ng & Cook ng with Kids
by Dana Moonan
Fast & Easy Christmas Crafts (and Treats) As the most wonderful time of year approaches, there are many school events, church events, parties and activities. In the midst of this busy month, take a few moments to make a memory and a craft with your family.
Make an Ornament
There are many ways to personalize an ornament for family, friends or yourself. Most crafts stores sell the hard clay like ornaments with spots to write the names of your family members or friends. Be sure to use a fine tip Sharpie, as this is the easiest way to add personalization. You can also decorate an ornament. Most craft stores also sell the clear glass or plastic round ball ornaments. If you are working with small children I suggest the clear plastic--it’s a little easier to push on when painting or decorating. The glass ornament balls are a beautiful choice for older children. There are many possibilities for decorating. You can write an initial in the center with a black Sharpie marker and then use red and green paint to make polka dots or stripes all around the ornament. You can paint it a solid color like red or green and make polka dots on top of that. Try some nontraditional color combinations like pink and green or blue and green or brown. These are fun gifts to make
and give to your children’s friends. They also make great hostess gifts with the family’s last name initial on it. Personalize it further with favorite football team colors. The clear ornaments also offer the option of stuffing with something inside. You can take off the top and add glitter, sparkles, small snowflakes or anything you can think of.
Make a Scarf
With a little bit of fleece you can make kid friendly scarves for your child, friends or even as an activity for a class. Measure out about 69 inches or 5 ½ feet of fleece from your local craft or hobby store. There are so many fabric choices to choose from that you can find a pattern for anyone--from cheetah prints, to sports themes, camo themes, flowers, stripes or holiday patterns. Then lay your strips of fabric out and cut fringe pieces 5 inches long on each side. That’s it…you are done! You can tie the pieces or leave them like a fringe on each side. These make great gifts and are really fun and easy to make.
Sugar Cone Christmas Tree Snacks These easy snacks are great to bring to a party, dinner or class event. You will need pointy, triangle shape sugar ice cream cones, vanilla icing, green food color, mini M&Ms, regular size M&Ms, and any other small
candy or marshmallows that you would like to use to decorate your tree. Now stand up the cone so that the pointy part is on the top. Ice the cone with green tinted icing from top to bottom. This is your Christmas tree. Then add any candies to “trim” your tree. Marshmallow stars work great on the top of the tree. Or you can just use sprinkles for smaller children. You can pour the sprinkles onto a plate and just roll the tree in them.
Sweet Snowman
This easy snack craft is great for kids of all ages. You will need small powdered white donuts, vanilla icing, chocolate chips and any candy you choose to decorate. Simply build your snowman using three donuts stacked on top of each other. Layer a thin layer of icing in between to help them stick together. Then add your “coal” eyes (chocolate chips), a Twizzler scarf and any other decorations. A small Reese’s cup makes a great top hat. Secure all of your candy on with vanilla icing. Throughout this holiday season take time to enjoy the small moments and make something special today. It’s times like these that you will remember and cherish. Dana Moonan is a former first grade teacher and current stay-at-home mom of three, Emily and Matthew, and Abby.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
“I Think I Can”
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Eight Ways to Encourage Optimism in Your Child by Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D.
It’s frustrating to hear your child mutter, “Why bother? I won’t make the team” or “It doesn’t matter. I can’t get an A.” Children today face enormous academic and social pressure, but an attitude of passive resignation isn’t healthy. Dr. Martin Seligman, lead researcher for the Pennsylvania Resiliency Project and author of Learned Optimism: How to Change Your Mind and Your Life describes three benefits of optimism you’ll want for your child: Better health, greater academic and extracurricular performance, and the motivation to keep trying when times are tough. Optimists experience less physical distress in challenging situations than pessimists and have stronger immune systems, according to 25 years of research conducted by Dr. Michael Scheier and his colleagues at Carnegie Mellon University. Optimists live longer and happier lives. In addition, optimists are achievers. Studies show optimistic youth get higher grades and perform better in Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
athletic competition than pessimists, even when they are led to believe their earlier performance was not so good. These benefits are fueled by optimists’ tendency to give extra effort in challenging situations – optimists believe hard work pays off. While genetics play some role in determining kids’ attitudes, there is good evidence we can help kids look on the bright side more often. Seligman calls this “psychological immunization” against depression. Here are some strategies to help your child think and act optimistically in today’s pessimistic culture.
Practice thought watching
Learn to spot your child’s negative self-talk. Kids often express negative thoughts aloud: “My hair looks ugly,” or “I don’t have any friends.” Help your child reject unfavorable thoughts. Stop and discuss his internal dialogue. Encourage your child to police his thoughts for “bad beliefs” by acting as his very own thought cop. 38
Model optimistic self-talk
Talk with your child (over breakfast, or on the way to school) about what might happen today. Perhaps you have an important meeting or are attending a playgroup together. Share your excitement with your child. Say, “I’ll have a chance to present my ideas,” or “I might make a new friend.” Don’t be afraid to mention coming events that concern you, but focus on potential joys, rather than fears of the unknown.
Make a mantra
Remember The Little Engine That Could? He puffed faster and harder saying “I-think-I-can, I-think-I-can” until he succeeded. What phrase motivates your family in challenging times? Inject some humor and say your slogan together when times are tough (you’re climbing a big hill, walking a long way, or stuck in slow traffic). You’ll end up laughing about how silly you all look and show your child you’re in this together. Social support boosts optimism. Advertising: 334-209-0552
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Take action
Try new things – even scary ones. Go someplace new. Cook and eat a new food for dinner. When you meet someone new, be the first to introduce yourself. Discuss with your child the benefits of openness to new experiences. If the new food tastes icky or the new park is less fun than the old one, focus on what you learned. Perhaps say, “Now we know how much we like the slide at our park,” or “Wow, that tasted yucky! But it will make us strong and healthy.”
Change your child’s explanations for adversity
Even for optimists, things don’t always turn out great. What matters is how kids make sense of undesirable outcomes. Move from global, personal evaluations to more specific, situational ones. For instance, “I failed the test because I’m dumb and I’ll never be good at math” is pessimistic, but “I failed because I didn’t understand the problems and need more practice” allows active coping. To help your child make the switch, ask guiding questions, such as “What other explanations can you think of?” and “What can you do differently next time?”
Focus on improvement
Optimists know getting better is a process. Encourage your child to adopt this approach by commenting on his improvement, not just the outcome. Say “You really improved your sprint from the starting line” or “Your spelling has really improved since the rough draft” rather than focusing on his place in the contest or grade on the report. Follow progress visually using a simple chart. Then, when challenges arise you can point out how far he’s come and encourage persistence.
Be a skill-builder
Kids’ skills develop incrementally. Read a book or watch a video together that teaches a skill your child wants to develop. Encourage him to ask an expert for advice, if you know one. Practice the skill in a simple way then move up to bigger challenges. Reinforce the idea that your child can learn to do just about anything. Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com
Recognize good when it happens
Some emotion researchers believe we are genetically programmed to pay more attention to bad news than good – learning from bad news helps us survive dangerous situations. But focusing on what’s wrong diminishes all that is going right. Before bed, play the “three good things” game. Both you and your child list three good things that happened today and describe how you felt about them. You may be inspired to list 39
three good things you anticipate tomorrow, too. An optimistic attitude encourages positive action. By encouraging an upbeat approach, you give your child the key to a healthier, happier, more productive life. Optimists’ dedicated, persistent action can change the world for the better, and I believe our kids will do just that. Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD is a personality psychologist and mom of two. Get more psychology lessons for life at heidiluedtke.com/blog.
Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Family Calendar Ongoing:
A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an all-inclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-728-1162 or email: momofpnk@gmail.com. Alabama Ballet The Alabama Ballet presents George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker, Dec. 14-23. Leslie Stephen Wright Center, Birmingham. www.alabamaballet.org Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-705-8877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival • A Christmas Carol. Nov. 23 - Dec. 23. Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Montgomery. www.asf.net. Beat Bama Food Drive Oct. - Nov. 19. 2012 Beat Bama Food Drive. www.beatbamafooddrive.com. Birmingham Children’s Theatre • Peter Pan. Nov. 27-Dec. 14. • Ho, Ho, Ho,...A Merry Mouse Christmas. Dec. 1-9. www.bct123.org. Bosom Buddies (a breast cancer support group) Meets at The Health Resource Center the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. (334) 528-1260. www.eamc.org. Callaway Gardens 21st Annual Fantasy In Lights. Through Dec. 30. The Southeast’s most spectacular holiday light and sound show with more than eight million twinkling lights celebrating the holiday season. Drive your car or ride the Jolly Trolley to experience scenes like March of the Toy Soldiers and Snowflake Valley. At Robin Lake Beach, enjoy Twas The Night before Christmas and The Nativity, light and sound shows enticing passers-by to stop, reflect and enjoy. www.callawaygardens.com. Christmas in Camelot Opelika neighborhood. 4:30-10 p.m., Dec. 2-31. The magic of Christmas comes alive throughout Camelot with the many large Christmas Cards, painted under art teacher, Roslyn Stern, by Opelika High art students. The neighborhood lights are adorned with lighted wreaths and all the houses are decorated with the wonders of Christmas. This drive-through event begins at sundown. www.opelika.com. Expressions of a BraveHeart Program A fine arts program for teens and young adults with special needs (ages 11-21), sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation, utilizing Auburn University faculty and students, as well as community volunteers. Two 30-minute sessions of art, dance/creative movement and music will be offered and participants will select 2 of the 3 classes. Expressions meets every 2nd and 4th Monday twice a month for 1.5 hours. Opelika Sportsplex, 334.705.5560. www.opelikasportsplex.com. Family Theatre • The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Nov. 30, Dec. 1, 7, 8, 14, 15. 7:30 p.m. 2100 Hamilton Road, Columbus. www.familytheatre.org. Imagine It! Children’s Museum of Atlanta Dec. 1-9. Holiday Trains! All Aboard! The North Georgia Tin Plate Trackers will display a variety of interactive holiday trains. www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art Nov. 17 - Jan. 26. 1072 Society Exhibition. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that
Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
November/December2012
are waiting to adopt are welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net. McWane Center Winter Wonderland. Nov. 23-Jan. 6. Birmingham.www. mcwane.org. Meditation Garden and Labyrinth Come and Find the Quiet Center... in the Meditation Garden and Labyrinth, provided as a community service by Village Christian Church, 700 East University Drive, (across from Auburn Early Ed.). 334-887-5111. Try the practice of walking meditation or simply sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. The garden and labyrinth are always open and guests are always welcome. Montgomery Zoo Christmas Lights Festival Dec. 6-9, 13-31. 5:30-9:30 p.m. A winter wonderland of thousands colorful and sparkling lights with Santa and more! www.montgomeryzoo.com. Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974. Springer Opera House • Annie. Dec. 6 - 23. • A Tuna Christmas. Dec. 13-23. Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org.
Parents Support & Moms Groups
Auburn Mommies, a fun group of moms in the Auburn/ Opelika area that meet weekly for playgroups and Mommy and Me walking twice a week. We also have a Mommies Night Out once a month. Http://groups.yahoo. com/group/auburnmommiesinalabama/. Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register. La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. @ Holy Trinity Episcopal in Auburn. For more information call Josie at 257-3950. Lee County Autism Support Group meets every other month. Call Julie Brown 887-3903 or Florence Evermom 887-5005. Covenant Presbyterian Church on Shelton Mill Road in Auburn. MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids. New website is www.auburnmoms.com. Moms In Touch. Do you worry about your children? Come experience how you can replace your anxiety and fear with peace and hope by praying with other moms. Moms In Touch International gathers moms together for one hour, once a week, to pray specifically and scripturally for our children and school. Won’t you join with us in prayer for this next generation? Please contact Julia Farrow at julia@cornerstonebuzz.org for information about our local groups. For more information about Moms In Touch International, visit www. MomsInTouch.org. Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@ insideyfc.com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com.
Mom’s Morning Out
Auburn United Methodist Church, Children’s Day Out Program, every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-12 noon. $10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information.
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Trinity United Methodist Church (Opelika) Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45-12. $15 per child.
Support Groups
Care N’ Share Group Caring for a family member or friend can be rewarding, but it is not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your grandchildren, provide care to your parents or spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn from each other, ways to cope with the everyday stresses of caring for someone you love. We will also give you tools and resources to help you on your journey. Last Monday of each month through November. 7 a.m., or Noon CST (choose the one that works best for you). Registration preferred but not required. This program is supported by the Opelika SportsPlex, Lee-Russell Area Agency on Aging, and Hospice Advantage EAMC. Food Allergy Support of East Alabama The Food Allergy Support of East Alabama group offers support through the sharing of information and resources. We are also working to increase awareness of food allergies in the state of Alabama. For more information, visit our website at www.foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334-826-3082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net. GRACE - Post-Abortive Support Group Are you struggling with feelings of regret or sadness from having a pregnancy termination in your past? Do you feel like you can’t share these struggles with anyone? Would you like to find healing and forgiveness? You are not alone. Women’s Hope Medical Clinic wants to help you! You are invited to take part in our GRACE abortion recovery group. This confidential group gives you the opportunity to process the grief of your termination in a safe and non-judgmental setting. If you would like more information about the times, dates and location for this group, call or e-mail Sherry at Women’s Hope: 334.502.7000 or sherry@womenshope.org Don’t let the regret of the past rob you of the joy in the future. Call us today. We are here to help.
Sports
Auburn University Football Home games: Nov. 17. www.autigers.com. Auburn University Gymnastics Nov 27. Auburn University Men’s Basketball Nov. 25, 30, Dec. 11, 15, 18, 22. Auburn University Women’s Basketball Nov 15, 18, Dec 9, 16, 19, 22, 29. Auburn University Swimming & Diving Dec 17, 18, 19. Super Six Alabama High School Football Championships. Jordan-Hare Stadium, Auburn. Dec. 5-7. www.super6au.com. Cottonmouths Hockey Dec 7, 8, 15, 16, 21, 29. Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter.org.
Monday, November 26
Canadian Brass RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. 7:30 p.m. www.rivercenter.org. Sensory Sensitive Movie Rise of the Guardians Carmike Ritz 13 on Whittlesey Blvd., Columbus. 11 a.m. These movies are geared towards families with children on the Autism Spectrum (and others with sensory issues). 706-604-6333. AU Indian Music Ensemble Concert Goodwin Recital Hall. 6-7:30 p.m. Tickets: $10, $5 for students. www.cla.auburn.edu.
Tuesday, November 27 Sensory Sensitive Movie Rise of the Guardians See Nov. 26 for details.
Advertising: 334-209-0552
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SNAPS: Auburn Circle’s Artist Expo Auburn Univ Student Center Ballroom. 6-8 p.m. Celebrate the talent of Auburn student who will be doing readings of published works including poetry, fiction, and nonfiction.
Wednesday, November 28 Dianne Reeves Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. www.eastalabamaarts.org. Mannheim Steamroller Christmas By Chip Davis 7:30 p.m. Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center. www.bjcc.org. AU Percussion Ensemble Concert Telfair Peet Theatre. 7:30-9 p.m. Tickets: $10, $5 for students.www.cla.auburn.edu.
Thursday, November 29
A Crafty Christmas The Cotton District in Downtown Opelika 714 N. Railroad Ave. Opelika. 6-9 p.m. BigHouse Foundation is a non-profit ministry in Lee County that meets the needs and improves the quality of life for children in foster care. A Crafty Christmas Craft Show for a Cause fundraiser is an opportunity for the public to help raise money for BigHouse while Christmas shopping for gifts and decor from local vendors and businesses. ourbighouse.org. A Crafty Christmas The Cotton District in Downtown Opelika 714 N. Railroad Ave. Opelika. 6:00-9:00 p.m. BigHouse Foundation is a non-profit ministry in Lee County Alabama that meets the needs and improves the quality of life for children in foster care. A Crafty Christmas Craft Show for a Cause fundraiser is an opportunity for the public to help raise money for BigHouse while Christmas shopping for gifts and decor from local vendors and businesses. www.ourbighouse.org. Baptist Health Care Presents: MERCY ME Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. 7 p.m. Fundraiser for Baptist Hospice, the only faith-based, not-for-profit hospice in Central Alabama. www.mpaonline.org. The Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express Municipal Park, Opelika. 5-8 p.m. Ages 2nd grade and under invited. Train rides, meet Santa and elves, sweet treats, and more! www.opelika.org. Christmas Concert Talladega College. www.talladega.edu. A Little Lunch Music Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 12-1 p.m. www. jcsm.auburn.edu. Fiddler on the Roof Ritz Theatre, Talladega. Nov 29-Dec 2. The Homecoming Red Door Theatre, Union Springs. www.reddoortheatre.org.
Friday, November 30
Joe Bonamassa RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. 8 p.m. www.rivercenter.org. Christmas at Arlington Historic Home & Gardens Birmingham. 205-780-5656. Clara’s Tea Party A perfect mother/daughter or grandmother/granddaughter holiday outing! Come dressed in Tea Party Fabulous or Holiday Fancy and mingle with your favorite Nutcracker characters. A beautifully decorated holiday scene provides the perfect backdrop for unique holiday card photos! Children’s holiday craft activities are planned along with delicious tea party fare for children and adults alike.www.eacballet.com. Night of Oldies by The Tag Williams Band Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m. $10 cover. www.eventcenterdowntown.net.
Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com
Montgomery Chorale Winter Concert Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. 7:30 p.m. www.montgomerychorale.org. The Homecoming Red Door Theatre, Union Springs. www.reddoortheatre.org. Disney On Ice: Treasure Trove BJCC. www.ticketmaster.com. West Side Story Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center. www.bjcc.org. Family Theatre presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever 2100 Hamilton Road, Columbus. 7:30 p.m. www.familytheatre.org. The Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express See Nov. 29 for details.
Saturday, December 1
AU Singers Concert Telfair Peet Theatre. 2:30-4 p.m. Tickets: $10, $5 for students. www.cla.auburn.edu. Kids’ Art Club ‘Cubes’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 10 a.m. This session will work on making posters that express the many different ideas that make up our melting pot culture. Art Club is open to all students k-12. Art Club sessions are free, but require preregistration. Please call 334.844.3486 to preregister. Sessions are open studio so parents are asked to stay at the museum. www.jcsm. auburn.edu. The Forgotten Carols Presented by the Community Foundation of East Alabama and the East Alabama Youth for Christ. Auburn Performing Arts Center. Tickets are available online at the following link http://auburn.brownpapertickets.com/ and can also be purchased at Auburn Performing Arts Center which is located at Auburn High School, 405 S. Dean Rd. Ticket costs include $15 for adults and $10 for students. City of Millbrook Christmas Parade and Arts & Crafts Main Street, Millbrook. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. www.cityofmillbrook.org. Eufaula Christmas Tour of Homes www.eufaulapilgrimage.com. Holiday at the Oaks Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site. Join the park for an open house to see the home of Booker T. Washington decorated for the holidays. nps.gov/semo. Mistletoe Market/Christmas Bazaar Historic Eufaula. Free. www.eufaulachamber.com. Tallassee Christmas Parade www.tallasseechamber.com. Breakfast with Santa The Central Activity Center, Phenix City. 9 a.m. Seating is limited. Please call 334-291-4743 to make reservations. Kids’ Home Depot Workshop Opelika. 9am-noon. Childrens’ do-it-yourself skills and tool safety project class. Ages 5-12 yrs. FREE! Lowe’s Build & Grow Clinic Sandman’s Plane. 10 a.m. Free. Breakfast With Santa The Rock Ranch, Ga. 8:30 a.m.-12 noon. Tickets $12.50 per person (3 and under free). Includes breakfast, visit with Santa and one free family photo. therockranch.com. Fresh Greenery Christmas Workshop Callaway Gardens. 10 a.m.-12 noon. $45 per wreath or centerpiece. www.callawaygardens.com. Columbus State University’s Riverside Theatre Presents “Santa’s Christmas Tree” 10 a.m. $5 for children, $10 for adults. 706-507-8444. Pearl Harbor Remembered FDR’s Little White House, Warm Springs, Ga. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. $8-12. 706-655-5870. Victorian Christmas National Civil War Naval Museum, Port Columbus.
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10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Santa will be here, along with live traditional carolers, a Victorian Vaudeville show, refreshments and shopping, and even cannon firings with Santa! Free! www.portcolumbus.org. Christmas at Arlington Historic Home & Gardens Birmingham. Free. 205-780-5656. Opelika Christmas Parade Downtown Opelika. 10 a.m. The Opelika Chamber of Commerce puts on the city’s annual Christmas parade to officially bring in the Christmas season! It’s a great time for family and friends to gather in beautiful, historic downtown Opelika and see everybody’s favorite - a great parade! www.opelika.com. 7th Annual Polar Express Holiday Celebration Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Join the Auburn Arts Association and Auburn Parks and Recreation as we jump aboard the Polar Express! Children 12 and under are invited to wear their favorite holiday pajamas and join in on the fun. Children 5 years and younger must be accompanied by an adult. Festivities include a trackless train, holiday inflatables, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, tasty treats, holiday arts & crafts, games, live musical entertainment, and a performance by the East Alabama Community Ballet. For ticket information call 501-2963. 2012 Holiday Wreath Workshop Presented by The Forest Ecology Preserve. Ham Wilson Arena. Limited to first 25. 334-844-8091. Willie Nelson Alabama Theatre, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com. Holiday Open House Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center, Columbus. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Celebrate the season by sipping hot cocoa, snacking on sweet treats, creating Christmas crafts, and singing joyful carols! Plus, this might be your only chance to tell Santa what you want for Christmas! Tacky holiday sweater preferred, but not required. Free. www.oxbow.columbusstate.edu. 17th Annual Cookie Walk A Habitat for Humanity fund raiser, sponsored by Auburn’s We Help Coalition of churches. Grace United Methodist Church, Auburn. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. AORTA Toys for Tots 10K/5K Trinity Lutheran Church, Auburn. Registration fee and a toy to be donated. aortatoysfortots2012.blogspot.com. Christmas Market The Children’s Harbor, Hwy 63, Alexander City. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Unique Christmas gifts, 30 vendors, concessions, back sale and more. (334) 857-2133. The Auburn University Singers Fall Show Telfair Peet Theatre, AU Campus. 2:30 p.m. (334) 844-4165. Family Theatre presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever See Dec. 30 for details. West Side Story Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center. www.bjcc.org. Disney On Ice: Treasure Trove BJCC. www.ticketmaster.com. Auburn Arena South’s BEST Robotics Regional Championship The top 56 teams from 13 BEST Hubs in 7 states. www. southsbest.org. The Homecoming Red Door Theatre, Union Springs. www.reddoortheatre.org.
Sunday, December 2
AU Singers Concert Telfair Peet Theatre. 2:30-4 p.m. and 7:30-9 p.m. Tickets: $10, $5 for students. www.cla.auburn.edu. The Forgotten Carols See Dec. 1 for details. Fort Benning Tour of Homes Tour 18 of Ft Benning’s historic homes including
Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Family Calendar Riverside, home of the Commanding General. 2-6 p.m. $10 per person. www.fortbenningcsc.org. Victorian Christmas See Dec. 1 for details. Christmas at Arlington Historic Home & Gardens Birmingham. Free. 205-780-5656. West Side Story Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center. www.bjcc.org. Disney On Ice: Treasure Trove BJCC. www.ticketmaster.com. Auburn Arena South’s BEST Robotics Regional Championship See Dec. 1 for details. The Homecoming See Dec. 1 for details. Christmas at Arlington Historic Home & Gardens See Dec. 1 for details.
Monday, December 3
Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Tours & Open House 2012 1142 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 334-241-8824. Hometown Christmas Parade Alexander City. www.alexandercitychamber.com. Five Days of Christmas Alabama Nature Center, Millbrook. Activities will include a chance to sit in Santa’s lap, candy making, arts and crafts, a hike and a hayride. Holly Beverly at 334285-4550 or hollyb@alabamawildlife.org. Disney On Ice: Treasure Trove BJCC. www.ticketmaster.com.
Tuesday, December 4
Ft. Benning’s Christmas Tree and Menorah Lighting Ceremony 6 p.m. Free. www.fortbenningcsc.org. The Forgotten Carols Benjamin Russell High School Auditorium, Alexander City. Benefiting The Children’s Harbor. 7 p.m. (334) 857-2133. Five Days of Christmas See Dec. 3 for details. Disney On Ice: Treasure Trove BJCC. www.ticketmaster.com.
Wednesday, December 5
The Auburn University Singers present Fall Show Telfair Peet Theatre, AU Campus. 7:30 p.m. (334) 844-4165. Auburn Mommy and Me Big Dog Running Co, Auburn. 10-11 a.m. Social time, story time, music/movement, arts & crafts. Ages 9 months-3 yrs. Free! 334-209-2580. Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour Opelika Historic Neighborhood District. 6-9 p.m. Free. See the historic Victorian homes of Opelika transformed into an Old World Christmas wonderland. Over 60 turn-of-the-century homes are adorned with life-size Santas, angels, toys, teddy bears, carousel horses, and other figures. A self-directed driving or walking tour, the event includes live entertainment, carolers, costumed homeowners, and other festivities. Streets are closed on Saturday, weather permitting, for walking tours only. The tour begins at North 8th Street & 2nd Avenue and includes over ten city blocks. www.opelika.org. Five Days of Christmas See Dec. 3 for details.
Thursday, December 6
Film: It’s a Wonderful Life Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 6-8 p.m. www. jcsm.auburn.edu. Winter Wonderland Holiday Market Rape Counselors of East Alabama, Inc. will hold a Holiday Market from 4-9 p.m. at the Auburn Chamber
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of Commerce. The holiday market will be a fun night for the community to come out and shop for gifts while helping RCEA meet their match for a grant. This grant will help RCEA continue providing services to rape victims in Lee County. Rape Counselors of East Alabama is a local agency which serves rape victims from our area. We provide 24 hour crisis assistance to victims and their families. Our volunteers accompany victims to the hospital and police station. We offer continued support and assistance in locating additional counseling. RCEA, Inc. provides Safe Dating Education and Bullying programs to schools, colleges, community agencies, nurses and law enforcement personnel. Holiday At Riverside Ft. Benning. 5-8 p.m. Fort Benning families will join Major General H. R. and Katie McMaster in welcoming Santa, our holiday VIP, to Riverside. Santa Claus will meet and greet old friends and new on the lawn of the commanding general’s quarters. Face painting, a stilt walker and door prizes are just a few of the activities for Santa’s visitors. Light refreshments will also be available. www.fortbenningcsc.org. Christmas At Moon Lake Idle Hour Park on Lakeshore Drive, Phenix City. 5-9 p.m. Family fun including live music, a puppet show, pony rides, hay rides and much more. The lake will be decorated with beautiful lighted displays that will transform Moon Lake into a magical Christmas Wonderland and stay lit thru the holidays. 334-291-4719. Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www.newnantheatre.org. Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour See Dec. 5 for details. Five Days of Christmas See Dec. 3 for details. The Hallelujah Girls The New Horizon Community Theatre, LaGrange, Ga. www.nhct.org.
Friday, December 7
Victorian Christmas Weekend at Port Columbus www.portcolumbus.org. 2012 Scholarship Gala Black Tie Event Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7:30 p.m.-12 midnight. Promoting mentoring, health & wellness, education, & economic empowerment. $50. Charlie Burton at: burt134@charter.net or 334-705-0936. Opelika Unplugged The Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m. Performance platform for singers and songwriters. $5. www.eventcenterdowntown.net. Christmas In The Valley Concert RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. Join the Columbus Symphony Orchestra for a concert celebrating the Christmas season. www.rivercenter.org. Live Reindeer Visit The Villages at Ft. Benning Welcome Center. 6-8 p.m. A team of live reindeer and their sleigh will visit the Villages at Fort Benning Welcome Center. Some of Santa’s helpers will also be on hand with treat bags and refreshments for residents of the Villages of Benning. Bring your cameras to photograph your children in Santa’s sleigh! www.fortbenningcsc.org. City of Montgomery Christmas Parade Cramton Bowl area. 6 p.m. Uptown Columbus presents Broadway Holiday 6:30-8:30 p.m. The forecast is for SNOW in Uptown on December 7! Share in the spirit of the holidays during Uptown’s Broadway Holiday. Join us as we light the Christmas Tree, Bring Santa to town, hang out with the Coca-Cola Polar bear and sing in the season! 18th Annual Christmas in a Railroad Town Downtown Opelika. 6-9 p.m. Dine on traditional Victorian era food. Bring the kids to write their letters to Santa, enjoy pony rides, caroling and see Santa and Mrs.
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Claus to have their photo taken! Be transported back in time and take a wagon ride through the Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour. Cruising with Santa The Harriott II Riverboat. Montgomery. 6:30 p.m. www. funontheriver.net. Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour See Dec. 5 for details. Five Days of Christmas See Dec. 3 for details. Family Theatre presents The Best Christmas Pageant Ever See Dec. 30 for details. The Hallelujah Girls See Dec. 6 for details. East Alabama Community Ballet presents ‘The Nutcracker’ Telfair Peet Theatre, Auburn University. 7 p.m. www.eacballet.com. Madeline’s Christmas 7 A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www. newnantheatre.org. Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www.newnantheatre.org.
Saturday, December 8
Victorian Christmas See Dec. 1 for details. Sensory Sensitive Screenings Movie Dino Time’ Sponsored by The Autism Hope Center and Carmike Cinemas, Whittlesey Blvd., Columbus. 11 a.m. Register www.autismhopecenter.com. Naturally Christmas Class presented by The Columbus Botanical Garden Two programs to inspire Christmas creativity. 706-3278400. 13th Annual Children’s Miracle Network Reindeer Run- for Kids! Sandy Lewack, 706-660-6115. Bi-City Christmas Parade Uptown Columbus. 10 a.m. 334- 291-4719. Holiday Open House The Columbus Museum. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. A Homemade Christmas City Gate Church, Phenix City. 12-5 p.m. Festival holiday decor and gifts, kids’ activities, food and more. Bring a new or used book for ages 0-18 yrs. that will be re-gifted to children this Holiday Season. Proceeds and donations go to the Gatehouse Rescue Mission. Amanda Robbins, 706-315-8421. Christmas at Historic Westville Lumpkin, Ga. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. www.westville.org. Christmas on the Coosa Wetumpka. Christmas extravaganza with arts and crafts, parade, food, quilt show, classic car show, entertainment and activities on the Coosa River culminating with a spectacular fireworks exhibition at dusk. www. wetumpkachamber.com. Dashing Through the Springs 5K Run/Walk Shocco Springs Conference Center, Talladega. www.shocco.eventbrite.com. Second Saturday Lee County Historical Society Museum, Loachapoka. 1-3 p.m. Group of history re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts. Blacksmiths are working at the forge, spinners and weavers are in the textile room, the gardeners are in the gardens, crafts and seasonal activities are scheduled, and someone is always cooking up a meal in the fireplace or outdoors. www.leecountyhistroicalsociety.org. 6th Annual Jingle for Tots 5K/10K/1 Mi Run First United Methodist Church, Alexander City. Registration and toy donation. www.alexcityfumc.org
Advertising: 334-209-0552
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Thursday, December 13
Christmas Crafts Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Fun crafts for the holidays. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Ages 6-10. Fee $10. 705-5560. Cruising with Santa The Harriott II Riverboat. Montgomery. 6:30 p.m. www. funontheriver.net.
Friday, December 14
Therapeutic Christmas Ball Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Social outlet for adults with special needs. 6-8 p.m. 705-5560. A Christmas Carol presented by the Opelika High Theatre Society Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. 7 p.m. $5 for students and $7 for adults. 334-745-9715. Family Theatre The Best Christmas Pageant Ever See Dec. 30 for details. Cruising with Santa See Dec. 13 for details.
• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •
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Victorian Christmas See Dec. 1 for details. Santa’s Gracious Helpers Teaching Children to Write Thank You Notes.
Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Tours & Open House 2012 1142 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 334-241-8824. 2013 Daddy-Daughter Date Night Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Rec. 8 a.m. Dean Rd Rec Center. 501-2946. Auburn Community Theatre Auditions ‘Into the Woods, Jr’. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Ages 8-18 years. 4-6 p.m. A cockeyed fairy tale where all of your favorite characters – Cinderella, Little Red Riding Hood, Jack (and his beanstalk) and The Witch–meet and interact on their journeys. Come prepared with approx. 30 sec. of a song, preferably from a musical (any musical). You will
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also be learning a short dance so wear clothes you can move in. You can also go to broadwayjr.com, audition central, to prepare. Melissa Trebus, 256-334-2818.
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Family Theatre The Best Christmas Pageant Ever See Dec. 30 for details. The Hallelujah Girls See Dec. 6 for details. East Alabama Community Ballet presents ‘The Nutcracker’ Telfair Peet Theatre, Auburn University. 2 p.m. www.eacballet.com. Madeline’s Christmas 7 A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www. newnantheatre.org. Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www.newnantheatre.org. Breakfast In Santa’s Workshop McWane Science Center, Birmingham. 8:30-10 a.m. www.mcwane.org. Polar Express Pajama Party McWane Science Center, Birmingham. 4:30-6 p.m. www.mcwane.org
Columbus Public Library. 3-5 p.m. Free. www. theprotocalacademyofgeorgia.com. Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour See Dec. 5 for details. 6th Annual Loveliest Village Christmas Tour of Homes Presented by Auburn Preservation League. Tickets, www. auburnpreservationleague.com. East Alabama Community Ballet presents ‘The Nutcracker’ Telfair Peet Theatre, Auburn University. 2 p.m. www.eacballet.com. Madeline’s Christmas 7 A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www. newnantheatre.org. Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www.newnantheatre.org.
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Cruising with Santa See Dec. 7 for details. Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour See Dec. 5 for details. 6th Annual Loveliest Village Christmas Tour of Homes Presented by Auburn Preservation League. Tickets, www. auburnpreservationleague.com.
FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Family Calendar Madeline’s Christmas 7 A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www. newnantheatre.org. Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www.newnantheatre.org. Snowed In Sleepover McWane Science Center, Birmingham. 6 p.m.-9 a.m. Spend the night playing in the Winter Wonderland exhibit and the train exhibit. This snowy celebration is fun for all ages. Event includes dinner, breakfast, late night snack, Santa vs. the Snowman in IMAX , and all activities. www.mcwane.org.
Saturday, December 15
Kids’ Art Club ‘Winter’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 10 a.m. This session will work on making posters that express the many different ideas that make up our melting pot culture. Art Club is open to all students k-12. Art Club sessions are free, but require preregistration. Please call 334.844.3486 to preregister. Sessions are open studio so parents are asked to stay at the museum.www.jcsm. auburn.edu. A Christmas Marriage Ball Event Center Downtown, Opelika. Presented by Covenant Relationship Ministries. Black Tie Affair. $40 per person. For more information, Marilyn & Company Event Planning at 334-332-0118. Astronomy Night ‘Holiday Special’ Columbus State University’s Coca-Cola Space Science Center, Ga. 7 p.m. Free. www.ccssc.org. Reading of The Polar Express FDR’s Little White House, Warm Springs, Ga. 10:30 a.m.-2 p.m. 706-655-5870.
November/December2012
The Columbus Ballet presents The Nutcracker RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. www.rivercenter.org. Christmas at the Alabama Nature Center Millbrook. For the regular price of admission, ANC guests can visit with Santa, hike over 5 miles of trails, make a Christmas craft and enjoy a snack around a roaring fire. 1-800-822-9453. Holiday Fest The Warehouse, Downtown Eclectic. A market and trade day with arts, crafts and entertainment just in time for holiday shopping. 8 a.m.-1 p.m. Verdie Nummy, 334578-3301. Downtown Auburn Christmas Parade 10 a.m. Join us in downtown Auburn to celebrate the season with the annual Auburn Christmas Parade. After the parade, enjoy the special events and holiday shopping offered by downtown merchants. www.auburnchamber.com. Family Theatre The Best Christmas Pageant Ever See Dec. 30 for details. Cruising with Santa See Dec. 13 for details. A Christmas Carol presented by the Opelika High Theatre Society See Dec. 14 for details. Madeline’s Christmas 7 A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www. newnantheatre.org. Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www.newnantheatre.org. Polar Express Pajama Party McWane Science Center, Birmingham. 4:30-6 p.m. www.mcwane.org.
Snowed In Sleepover See Dec. 14 for details.
Sunday, December 16
The Columbus Ballet presents The Nutcracker See Dec. 15 for details. A Christmas Carol Presented by the Opelika High Theatre Society. Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. 3 p.m. Admission: $5 for students and $7 for adults. 334-745-9715. Cruising with Santa See Dec. 13 for details. Madeline’s Christmas 7 A Winnie-the-Pooh Christmas Tail Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www. newnantheatre.org. Mrs. Bob Cratchit’s Wild Christmas Binge Newnan Theatre Company, Newnan, Ga. www.newnantheatre.org.
Monday, December 17
Disney Live! Mickey’s Music Festival Columbus Civic Center. 7 p.m. www.columbusciviccenter.org. Cantus Christmas The RiverCenter for Performing Arts. 7:30 p.m. www. rivercenter.org. Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Tours & Open House 2012 1142 S. Perry St., Montgomery. 334-241-8824.
Tuesday, December 18
A Christmas Carol presented by the Opelika High Theatre Society See Dec. 14 for details.
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SEEDS of LEARNING! Technology program for ages 1 & up Solid Rubber Playground Surface reduces injuries Our Character Education program teaches values Healthy menu with fresh fruit and whole grain foods Sign Language for all ages Lower Child:Teacher ratios Video monitoring in all classrooms Infant curriculum customized for your baby Infants through School-Age | Care available from 6:30am to 6:30pm Transportation available to most Auburn schools
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
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Wednesday, December 19 Auburn Mommy and Me See Dec. 12 for details. A Christmas Carol presented by the Opelika High Theatre Society See Dec. 14 for details.
Thursday, December 20 45th Annual Collinwood Luminaries Sponsored by Collinwood Neighborhood in Opelika. 5-9pm. Public can drive through the candle lit roads commemorating the path of Christ’s birth with live scenes along the way. A Christmas Carol presented by the Opelika High Theatre Society See Dec. 14 for details.
Friday, December 21 Cruising with Santa See Dec. 7 for details.
Saturday, December 22
Sensory Sensitive Screenings Movie Life of Pi Sponsored by The Autism Hope Center and Carmike Cinemas, Whittlesey Blvd, Columbus. 11 a.m. Register www.autismhopecenter.com. F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum Christmas Open House Montgomery. www.fitzgeraldmuseum.net. Cruising with Santa See Dec. 7 for details. Breakfast In Santa’s Workshop McWane Science Center, Birmingham. 8:30-10 a.m. www.mcwane.org. Polar Express Pajama Party McWane Science Center, Birmingham. 4:30-6 p.m. www.mcwane.org
Sunday, December 23
Polar Express Pajama Party McWane Science Center, Birmingham. 4:30-6 p.m. www.mcwane.org
Wednesday, December 26 Auburn Mommy and Me See Dec. 12 for details.
Thursday, December 27 Community Kwanzaa Celebration Birmingham Civil Rights Museum. 6 p.m. www.bcri.org.
Friday, December 28
Holiday Field Trip to Montgomery Zoo Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Rec. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Grades 3-6 invited. Register at Auburn Parks and Rec by Dec 21. 501-2946. Totally Sports Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Come enjoy flag football, basketball and more! 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Ages 5-12 yrs. Fee $20. 705-5560.
Saturday, December 29
Young Eagles Day Free Airplane Rides for Kids! Columbus Airport. Ages 8-17. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-3242453. Zac Brown Band BJCC. www.ticketmaster.com.
Monday, December 31
New Year’s Eve Party Cruise The Harriott II Riverboat. Montgomery. 10 p.m. www. funontheriver.net. New Year’s Eve Celebration Riverfront, Montgomery. 9:30 p.m.-1 a.m. Live entertainment by Groove Merchants and Creativity. Fireworks at midnight!
Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com
Looking Ahead...
Jan. 4-6. The Atlanta Ballet presents Cinderella. Gwinnett Performing Arts Center, Duluth, Ga. www.ticketmaster.com. Jan. 5. Red Nose Half Marathon 2013. Uptown Columbus. www.bigdogrunning.com. Jan. 13-14. Professional Bull Riders Pro Touring Division. Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter.com. Jan. 13. Southern Bridal Show. Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. www.eliteevents.com. Jan. 18. Gala Dinner to Honor Albert and Jule Collins Smith. Auburn University Hotel and Conference Center. www. jcsm.auburn.edu. Jan. 19. Teen Scene Field Trip: Wilderness Survival 101. Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Rec. Travel with
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staff to Little River Canyon Field School in Fort Payne, Al to learn hands on survival skills. Must be registered by Jan 3. Fee $15. Ages 12-15 yrs. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. meet at Dean Road Rec Center. Melissa Weldon, 501-2946. Jan. 19-20. Alabama Horse Council Horse Fair. Garrett Coliseum, Montg. www.alabamahorsecouncil.org. Jan. 19. AORTA Auburn Classic Half Marathon & Children’s Half Marathon. All runners will start and finish at Cater Lawn on the campus of Auburn University, touring through the quaint homes on Gay Street, past the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, and then touring the beautiful campus of Auburn University. www.bigdogrunning.com. Jan. 20. 2013 Quantum of Auburn Bridal Show. Auburn University Hotel and Conference Center. ben. taylor@qantumofauburn.com. Jan. 24. Live Owl Education Program. Dean Road Rec Center. Register by Jan 18. Melissa Weldon, 501-2946.
Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
A Page in a Book by Paige Gardner Smith
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Best Bets for Ballet Books One of the most recognizable forms of dance worldwide, ballet is classic performance art, and for many young children a rite of childhood. The trappings of the dance style - the slippers, leotards, the barre and mirrored walls – are second in lure only to the movement and performance of ballet itself. Ballet’s simple rudiments allow young children to slowly take up a very complex and demanding dance style and pursue it as far as they are willing to take the challenge. The following titles explore both the elements that characterize ballet and the dreams that can follow when you point your toes in the right direction.
Brontorina
by James Howe, Illustrated by Randy Cecil (Candlewick Press) Approaching the doors of Madame Lucille’s Dance Academy for Girls and Boys, Brontorina is met with surprise by the teacher and disbelief from students who can’t imagine how someone so large (an immense dinosaur, and lacking the proper shoes) can possibly want to take up ballet. But before she is turned away, Clara, a young dance student pleads on Brontorina’s behalf that she be allowed to dance. Brontorina learns the positions, but her size is still an issue as her head cracks the ceiling (and the pianist is endangered as well). Her dreams of dancing are about to be ended until Clara and the class come up with a solution that saves Brontorina’s dance future, expands their dance space…and expands hearts and minds as well.
Bea at Ballet
by Rachel Isadora (Nancy Paulsen / Penguin Books for Young Readers) Part of the beauty of ballet is its roots in tradition and the shared elements that characterize almost every young dancer’s experience in a ballet studio. ‘Bea at Ballet’ introduces all the things that an aspiring ballet dancer can expect to encounter on the journey to the barre. With pen, ink and oil paint drawings, Isadora illustrates the basic costuming (for boys and girls), as well as the traditional fixtures in a ballet setting (mirrors, a piano, a barre). The basic positions of beginning ballet are also tenderly rendered with small children learning the first poses. This title is the ideal introduction for any child interested in taking up the dance and who wants to be at ballet!
by Anna Kemp, Illustrated by Sara Ogilvie (Simon & Schuster) Biff the dog isn’t quite like other dogs. Unlike his hydrant-sniffing, stick-fetching, toiletdrinking peers, Biff prefers music, moonlight and walking on his tip-toes like a ballet dancer. Following his owner to and from her ballet classes, Biff is entranced by the dance and it’s clear he wants to participate, but the teacher rebuffs the idea. When the girl suggests taking Biff to a big ballet performance in town, her father dashes the notion reminding his daughter that there’s no place in ballet for dogs. But when they cross town for the show, a short furry figure shadows them to the venue. And when the star of the show takes a tumble on-stage, the woofer from the wings may surprise everyone with exactly what a determined dog CAN do. Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
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Parenting
on the Plains by Dr. Polly Dunn
Holiday Gift Giving Fun for Siblings When my kids were younger (and there were only two of them), we started a sibling holiday shopping tradition at the dollar store. That’s right, the dollar store! I would take them to the mall dollar store and with their own money they would purchase a gift of their choosing for their brother or sister. It was important to me that they learned about giving to others during the holidays from an early age. They were really good at receiving mind you, but the giving part needed a little guidance! And in my opinion, there’s no better place to practice important life skills than with your siblings. Now let me clarify that the dollar store is not normally where I do my holiday shopping. We actually tried to buy sibling gifts at other stores, but inevitably my children would pick out a toy that cost more than they (or I) could afford. At the dollar store, we knew with certainty how much everything cost so the kids were able to come prepared with the right amount of money. When we added a third child to our family, I tried to keep the tradition alive. We got it done, but in the process I almost had a nervous breakdown! Trying to assist three young shoppers, while allowing them to be somewhat independent in the dollar store during the height of the holiday shopping season is not something I would recommend to anyone! I knew then and there that we were going to have to make some major modifications for the next year. After a little research and brainstorming, the following year we decided to open a store in our own home to keep the sibling gift exchange alive (and Mommy’s sanity in tact). In case you’re in need of a new gift giving tradition for your family, here’s how ours works. From their wish lists and my own ideas I go shopping and purchase a handful of low cost gifts for each child in the family. I try to make sure that the gifts are practical and of good quality. Once I’ve purchased the gifts, I price them reasonably using garage sale style price stickers. Then, the kids get in line outside of my bedroom door and wait for Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com
their turn to shop. They come in one at a time with wallets and shopping bags in hand. On display are all of the presents they have to choose from for their siblings. Obviously, I keep the presents meant for them hidden while they are shopping! After they’ve made their purchase for each sibling, they take the gifts to their room and hide them until they are ready to wrap. Then I give them each some wrapping paper, scissors if they are old enough, and tape, and off they go to wrap their presents independently. You should see what some of these gifts look like under the tree! HILARIOUS! Despite what the wrapping looks like, the joy that my kids have in seeing their siblings open up the gifts that they picked, purchased, and wrapped for them is priceless. Since we’ve added our fourth child, we have continued our sibling gift giving
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tradition at “The Store.” Thankfully they still love it, because I cannot imagine my mental state if I had to take the four of them holiday shopping at the dollar store! I can only hope that this tradition will teach them the joy and skill of gift giving during the holidays, something that will help them long into adulthood. From our house to yours, Happy Holidays! Dr. Polly Dunn received her Ph.D. from Auburn University in 1999. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and currently serves as the Director of the Auburn University Psychological Services Center, a position she has held for over ten years. Dr. Dunn is also the founder of www.ChildPsychMom.com where she blogs about what works and what doesn’t in her hectic life as a child psychologist, wife, and mom of four.
Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
Lincoln
Rise of the Guardians
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: AViolence: C Sexual Content: ALanguage: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated Lincoln PG-13 for an intense scene of war violence, some images of carnage and brief strong language. Daniel Day-Lewis takes on the role of America’s 16th president during the bleak and bitter days of the Civil War. With the body count steadily rising thanks to the brutal battles fought in the mud and stench of the combat zone, Lincoln is eager to stop the bloodshed. But he is just as interested in ensuring the eradication of slavery. To that end he adamantly pursues the passage of the 13th Amendment designed to abolish the practice of slave ownership. Most of the Democrats in the House (Lee Pace, Peter McRobbie) are staunchly against the constitutional change. And even some of Lincoln’s own cabinet members question the wisdom in trying to push through the amendment, urging him instead to focus on ending the fighting. But during the final days of his first four years in office, Lincoln insists that Secretary of State William Seward (David Strathairn) and others with clout in the Republican Party (Tommy Lee Jones, David Costabile) help secure votes for the crucial ballot. Meanwhile on the White House domestic front, Lincoln faces personal and family difficulties. His wife, Mary Todd Lincoln (Sally Field) still mourning the loss of their son Willie, is given to angry outbursts, crying fits and excruciating headaches. As well, she feels the disapproval of the eastern politicians and their society wives, and is prone to excessive spending as a way to compensate. At the end of the semester, the Lincoln’s son Robert (Joseph Gordon-Levitt) returns from school with plans to join the army despite his parents’ objections. At times, it seems to be more than one individual can bear. While brief but graphic depictions of the war make it onto the screen, along with unnecessary profanities (including the strong sexual expletive), the dominant conflicts in this script take place in the Congressional chambers and private rooms of the White House. Strong performances from a large cast of seasoned actors coupled with a powerful script that revolves around the clashes fought off the battlefield gives audiences a very personal insight into this Union leader and this decisive turning point in American history. Best suited for older teens and adults, Lincoln is an inspiring political tale of the backwoods lawyer who rose to the country’s highest office in an era that appears fitted just for him.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: BSexual Content: A Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Rise of the Guardians PG for thematic elements and some mildly scary action. The perpetuation of childhood dreams and hopes lies in the care of four guardians -- Nicholas St. North (voice by Alec Baldwin), E. Aster Bunnymund (voice by Hugh Jackman), Tooth, the tooth fairy (voice by Isla Fisher) and the mute Sandman. However all that is good is threatened when Pitch, the bogeyman (voice by Jude Law), comes out of the shadows with the intent of instilling fear into nighttime fantasies. Needing reinforcements against the invading evil, the Man in the Moon chooses a new guardian. Unfortunately, Jack Frost (voice by Chris Pine) is anything but enthusiastic about being selected. Carefree and given to pranks, the reckless Jack just wants to have fun. Don’t expect a Coca Cola version of jolly Old St. Nicholas or a cuddly type of Easter Bunny in this holiday animation. These characters come with some edge. Tattooed from his wrists to his elbows, Santa sounds like a Russian Cossack and has an unabashed disdain for elves. The Easter Bunny is equally surly with an Australian accent and an ongoing grudge against the playful Jack. Yet despite their less than personable personalities, the guardians take their duties very seriously. And Jack’s nonchalant attitude toward his new role is both frustrating and infuriating, especially when the impish iceman’s actions put the other characters, and more importantly children’s beliefs, in danger. From the creators of How To Train Your Dragon, this film’s 3D animation and attention to detail rival anything movie audiences have seen in the recent past. Still, frequent moments of peril, the depiction of a death by drowning and unwarranted punching means this story is better suited for the oldest of children who won’t be disturbed by the dark images of nightmarish characters racing around the rooms of young sleepers. Pitting good against evil, this plot lacks the light-hearted charm of last year’s holiday release Arthur Christmas. Yet this heroic tale of a swordwielding Santa and a boomerang-tossing hare promotes the importance of taking responsibility and discovering the inner values that motivate us -both good messages for a rising generation.
What Parents need to know about Lincoln...
Violence: Soldiers engage in fierce hand-to-hand fighting with characters punched, stabbed and shot. A man’s head is held under water until he drowns. Gruesome images of maimed and dead corpses strewn across a battlefield are seen. Blood oozes from a wheelbarrow containing severed limbs that are dumped into an open pit. A man attempts to shoot another on the street. Sexual Content: A woman is seen in her slip. Language: The script contains two strong sexual expletives used in a nonsexual context, racial slurs, infrequent scatological slang, numerous curse words and some terms of Deity. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters frequently smoke. Other tobacco use is also shown. Characters drink on numerous occasions. A woman tells an employee to get a man drunk so he will sleep better.
What Parents need to know about Rise of the Guardians... Violence: Characters are shaken, dropped, kidnapped, and shocked with electricity, as well as kicked and hit by flying objects. A character races through traffic and down busy streets on a sled. A character drowns. Some weapon use is shown, including swords and large axes. A man is punched in the face and has his tooth knocked out. A dog growls menacingly before chasing another character. Characters repeatedly punch others. A boy falls down a deep ice crevice. Frequent moments of peril and fright are shown. Sexual Content: A female character is attracted to a boy. Language: Some brief name-calling is included. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. . Auburn-Opelika Parents I December 2012
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KNOW A WhAt tO dO iN cAse Of
suspected
cONcussiON
concussion is an injury caused by a blow to the head in which the brain moves rapidly and may collide with the inside of the skull. even a minor fall or collision may be of concern, so be alert to symptoms such as headaches, unsteadiness, confusion or other types of abnormal behavior. Any athlete with a suspected concussion: n should be IMMEDIATELY REMOVED FROM PLAY/ACTIVITY n should be urgently assessed medically n should not be left alone n should not drive a motor vehicle
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