Auburn Opelika Parents July 2017 by KeepSharing

July2017 28

Volume 8 Number 5

Columns

Publisher’s Note Kendra Sumner

Living With Children John Rosemond

Cool Party Themes

Growing Up Online

Discover six fun and unique party ideas for your tweens and teens.

Learn 8 creative ways to spark summer reading.

Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

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Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

8 Birthday Traditions These ideas will make your child feel extra special this year and every year after.

Birthday Party Guide Our listing helps you find all the resources you need for their big day!

On The Cover Alex and Savannah James are the twins of Emily and Macy Finck of Opelika. They are fun 4 ½ year olds who both love to swim, everything Disney, playing with friends and family, coloring, and making each other laugh. They go to First UMC of Opelika, where they also attend SONSHINE Preschool. Alex and Savannah are both looking forward to joining the Opelika Seadawgs as soon as they get big enough.

Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 5

Bits and Pieces 10

School Bits 40

Calendar 48

Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Publisher’sNote I thought planning birthday parties was a piece of cake, until this year. The days of throwing a party that included a character theme, a bounce house and ice cream and cupcakes were officially over when my tween turned in a teen, literally overnight. She still wanted to celebrate her milestone birthday, but all the ideas I was coming up with were “boring and baby-like”. For me, it was like taking a beating with a piñata stick! All of my clever ideas were getting shot down, as quickly as I could come up with them. For me, one of my favorite things to do for my children has always been to throw them a yearly birthday bash they would always remember. Every birthday was special and cause for a great celebration. Even with all my tried and true birthday options running, I was determined to find a perfect fit for my teen’s party. It was just going to take me thinking outside the birthday box! In our feature article, Cool Party Theme for Tweens and Teens, the author gives some great ideas to get the brainstorming of ideas flowing. One approach to planning can be to think about their interests. For example, do they like to hang out with their friends, play video games and karaoke? With social media and gaming being a teen norm, work those into a party theme where the guests are invited to “A Night at the Club” or “A Night at the Sports Pub” where you turn your home into a cool party scene, complete with a DJ, dance floor, a gaming area with old games (pingpong) and new video games. How about a decade party? Who doesn’t like all things 80s? Throw back to the 1980s and your DJ party becomes punk rock with big hair and neon everywhere. Bring out the ‘vintage’ games for a blast from the past and teach them how to play Mrs. Pac-Man on an old school Atari. Your cool factor will certainly go up a few notches in their book! To help with all your party planning, check out this year’s Birthday Party Planning Guide! You will find some tried and true, local businesses that can help with everything from invitations to the perfect themed cake. A cool teen party to try is just down the road in Columbus. Treadstone Climbing Gym features rock walls for beginners to more advanced climbers. Wanting a local place to party outside of your home? How about a beautiful park setting under a pavilion? Both Opelika and Auburn Parks and Recreation have multiple parks and pools to rent. Maybe this is the year that your birthday boy has taken an interest in taekwondo and wants to share his hobby with his party friends. How awesome would it be for him to cut his cake with a samurai sword at the World Champion Taekwondo Center? Does your little tumbler want her party to flip and not flop? Book her next birthday at My Gym where the staff will guide the guests through action-packed activities, games and more. We hope the guide will give you a great start to your birthday party planning this year! Little kids are much more excited about all the party ideas we come up with, but those tween and teens are a whole other story. So, what did I eventually end up doing for my teen who was too cool for a birthday party? She settled on opening night at the movies, with all her closest friends, followed by hanging at a local wing and burger spot where they could watch football games on one of the 50 televisions around the room. Of course, I insisted on a tiered cake, with candles and a birthday wish (she compromised with her traditional, party planning mom). We still celebrated her milestone, planned out fun (well, what a teen considers fun) and marked another year to look forward to. Teens can be too cool for most everything, but they are never too cool to have fun and blow out a birthday candle. We just need to adjust our views when thinking of planning them a party and find new ways to celebrate them through the teen years.

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

Auburn Opelika Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher Kendra Sumner Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Mark Gregston Carolyn Jabs Christina Katz Kerrie McLoughlin Pam Molnar Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Katie Wolter, M.D. Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

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

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 1204 Owens Road Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2016 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Is My Young Son Showing Signs of Autism? Q: Our 4-year-old prefers solitary play over play with other children. It’s been this way from early on when I began arranging play dates for him. When those really didn’t work, I enrolled him in pre-school but that didn’t help either. If firmly instructed to do so, he will join in and “play” with other children. I put the word in quotes because he doesn’t seem to really connect. He’s very imaginative and will spend hours in his room playing quietly on his own or even boisterously with various imaginary friends. At both home and school, he’s polite, obedient and sometimes can be very talkative with his older siblings or us. Everyone agrees that he seems happy and content. He’s in preK now and his teacher tells us he’s at least a year ahead of most of the kids in his class. Nonetheless, his school counselor called us in the other day and suggested he might have a mild form of autism—specifically, Asperger’s Disorder. Do you think we should have him evaluated?

A: Obviously, your son has more going for him than against him, which is my

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

primary reason for recommending against an evaluation—for the present, at least. Based on your description, it sounds to me as though your son is on the cusp of qualifying for a diagnosis of Asperger’s Disorder. Whether that occurred would depend on how liberally the therapist

in question interpreted the diagnostic criteria. In my estimation, those criteria (symptoms) should always be considered in light of the “big picture” which in this case includes the fact that your son is a happy, content, intelligent, well-behaved and imaginative little fellow who interacts

well with family members—the people with whom he is most familiar. That description is more significant than his social immaturity. We seem, collectively, to have forgotten that children are capable of being odd little creatures—some more than others. Most children eventually outgrow their oddness or learn the advisability of controlling it. For that reason, I’d hold off, for the time being, on an evaluation. At age four, the fact that a child is lagging in one developmental area is, in and of itself, no cause for alarm. One thing is certain: If people treat a child as if he has something wrong with him, the child is likely to become convinced there is something wrong with him and begin acting accordingly. Your son is a smart, imaginative, happy little camper who at this early point in his life doesn’t socialize well with other children. Given the positives, I am inclined to think that the best therapy is patient guidance from the people who love him the most. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Celebrate July 4th On the Water!

July 4th Weekend Star Spangled Beach Party @ Callaway Gardens The celebration begins early and lasts well into the night at our annual July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party at Robin Lake Beach. Highlights include beach activities, live music, the FSU Flying High Circus and our annual Fireworks Extravaganza. Be sure to pack plenty of red, white and blue for this All-American Weekend! July 1 - 4. www.callawaygardens.com 4th Of July Blast @ Lake Martin Amp Find your place on the grassy lawn at The AMP for the largest 4th of July Fireworks Display in the Southeast. Gates open around 5. Music generally starts around 6 and the Fireworks light the sky following the National Anthem at 9. For more information go to RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com or for the line-up of bands and tickets go to The AmpOnLakeMartin.com or call 256-397-1019. www.theamponlakemartin.com Fourth of July @ Lakepoint State Park Marina, Eufaula July 4, 4:00 p.m. until Fireworks End Fun, Food, Live Music & FIREWORKS.

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Lee County Humane Societyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Barks & Brews

The Lee County Humane Society joins Red Clay Brewing Company for the adoption event of the summer. Barks and Brews is an opportunity for you to sample Opelika's finest local beer, socialize with the passionate people of Lee the County Humane society, and meet your best friend. Red Clay Brewing Company, Opelika. July 8, 22 & August 5 from 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. www.facebook.com/leecountyhumanesociety

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Annual Freedom Celebration @ Opelika High School Track

Magical Monday Matinees at the Auburn Public Library

Did you receive your Hogwarts letter, or are you still waiting? Whether muggle or magical, hop aboard the Hogwarts Express and join us at the Auburn Public Library, and embark on a magical journey through the wizarding world of Harry Potter! The library will feature each Harry Potter movie in chronological order on Monday afternoons, 2:00-5:00 p.m. in June and July, culminating with a birthday celebration on July 31! Save the dates: June 26, July 3, July 10, July 17, July 24 and July 31. www.auburnalabama.org/library

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July 3, prepare to be amazed at dark with the area's largest and most impressive Fireworks Show. Enjoy the special musical entertainment provided by Route 66! This night of fun includes giant inflatable games, activities for the kids, musical entertainment, skydivers, food and the largest fireworks display in the area. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and relax on the grass! At the beginning of the evening, all kids are invited to put their name on a paper plate and place it near the tennis courts. At 7:30 p.m. the amazing Silver Wings Parachute Team will bring down the Stars and Stripes and land on the baseball field. The child's paper plate that the parachute jumpers land on will receive a prize! This event is free to the public.

Alabama's 2017 Back to School Tax Holiday: July 21-23

This back-to-school tax holiday offers bargains on clothing, computers, books, and school supplies. For the first time, Alabama's back-to-school sales tax holiday will be in July, rather than in August. Beginning at 12:01 a.m. (CST) on Friday July 21 and ending at twelve midnight on Sunday July 23, Alabama will hold its twelfth annual sales tax holiday giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, and clothing free of state sales or use tax. Local sales and use tax may apply. For a full list of items that are exempt, www.revenue.alabama.gov/salestax/STHolidayQuickRefSheet17.pdf.

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O Grows Farmers Market

Come walk around the Opelika Grows Farmers Market each Tuesday this summer from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to find fresh, local produce ranging from heirloom tomatoes to collard greens. You may even find some fresh bread, homemade ice cream or local honey. The Opelika Grows Farmers Market is location is across the street from the Cultural Arts Center on Glenn Street, near the community garden. We look forward to Carson Farms, Serenity Farms, M&S Produce, Walter Pulliam, AL Hooks, Frugal Fruit, Lorrie Harris Art, Beehive Farms, Leo's Produce, H.M. Bryce Farm and Wesley Hale, Hale Farms, Mallory Simpkins on Ukulele, Scoops Real Italian Ice and more! 1103 Glenn St, Opelikaâ&#x20AC;ŚAcross the street from the Southside Center for the Arts. www.facebook.com/opelikagrowsfarmersmarket Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

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July 4th Celebration @ Duck Samford Football Stadium

July 4, celebrate Independence Day with the entire Auburn Community, Auburn Parks and Recreation and Briggs and Stratton! Enjoy great food, live music, free goodies courtesy of Briggs and Stratton, and THE best fireworks display in the entire area! So grab your picnic basket, blanket, and the family and join us for a fabulous night of entertainment and a chance to show your patriotic spirit! Gates open at 6 p.m. Entertainment begins at 7 p.m. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. The rain date is Wednesday, July 5th. The FREE Celebration will be held behind the Home Side of the Duck Samford Football Stadium. Please remember - the parking lot off of Airport Road, which is shared between the Bo Cavin fields and the New Duck fields, will be closed to the public during the event to accommodate our fireworks shoot site. However, the parking lot off of E. University Dr. next to the Old Duck fields will be OPEN to the public for parking. (334) 501-2930.

Back-to-School Pool Party: Auburn

July 30, 1:00-6:00 p.m. At Drake Pool, Auburn. Let the Aquatics Staff send you back to school in style! We will be hosting our first Back-to-School pool parties in 2017. Join us for all-day games, music and fun at the pool! There will be special concessions for sale and back-to-school giveaways all day at the pool, from backpacks to notebooks and more. Please note: Drake Poolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Back-to-School Pool Party coincides with the July Aqua-Basketball tournament. The Back-to-School festivities will begin during regular Drake Pool Sunday hours. Admission is $2 per person or FREE with Splash Pass. (334) 501-2957.

Back-to-School Bash: Opelika

July 28, 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. At Covington Recreation Center, Opelika. Come enjoy one last day of summer with food and fun! (Limited number of school supplies will be given away). Free to all ages! 7

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Safety on Wheels for Kids With summer upon us, our children will have more time to exercise and play outside. While this is a very good thing, there are also certain risks that come with an increase in physical activity. Injuries while using wheeled equipment including bicycles, skateboards, scooters and in-line skates contribute to a large amount of injuries and ER visits.There are ways to keep your children as safe as possible while riding the equipment mentioned above. Here are some tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) to reduce injuries with the above mentioned equipment.

Bicycle Safety

• A helmet protects your child from serious injury, and should always be worn. And remember, wearing a helmet at all times helps children develop the helmet habit. • Your child needs to wear a helmet on every bike ride, no matter how short or how close to home. Many injuries happen in driveways, on sidewalks, and on bike paths, not just on streets. Children learn best by observing you. Set the example. • When purchasing a helmet, look for a label or sticker that says the helmet meets the CPSC safety standard.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

• A helmet should be worn so that it is level on the head and covers the forehead, not tipped forward or backwards. The strap should be securely fastened with about 2 fingers able to fit between chin and strap. The helmet should be snug on the head, but not overly tight. Skin should move with the helmet when moved side to side. If needed, the helmet’s sizing pads can help improve the fit. • Do not push your child to ride a 2-wheeled bike without training wheels until he or she is ready. Consider the child’s coordination and desire to learn to ride. Consider a balance bike with no pedals for young children to learn riding skills. • Take your child with you when you shop for the bike, so that he or she can try it out. The value of a properly fitted bike far outweighs the value of surprising your child with a new one. Buy a bike that is the right size, not one your child has to “grow into.” Oversized bikes are especially dangerous.

Skateboard, Scooter, In-Line Skating and Heelys Safety

• All skateboarders and scooter-riders should wear protective gear; helmets are particularly important for preventing and minimizing head injuries. Riders should wear helmets

that meet ASTM or other approved safety standards, and that are specifically designed to reduce the effects of skating hazards. • Communities should continue to develop skateboard parks, which are more likely to be monitored for safety than ramps and jumps constructed by children at home. • While in-line skating or using Heelys, only skate on designated paths or rinks and not in the street. • Most injuries occur due to falls. Inexperienced riders should only ride as fast as they can comfortably slow down, and they should practice falling on grass or other soft surfaces. Before riding, skateboarders should survey the riding terrain for obstacles. Protective wrist, elbow and kneepads should be worn. • Children should never ride skateboards or scooters in or near moving traffic. • Children under the age of eight should be closely supervised at all times. **Please see this article for more information: https://www.aap. org/en-us/about-the-aap/aap-press-room/news-features-andsafety-tips/Pages/Summer-Safety-Tips.aspx Dr. Katie Wolter is board certified in Pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, and the American Medical Association. She is passionate about breastfeeding medicine and is currently working on becoming an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant). She is also a member of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. Dr. Wolter is married to her husband, Jeremy, and has four sons. She loves to spend her free time outdoors with her family and friends.

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Autauga County Schools

Opelika HS Students Earn Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Certification

Congratulations to the following Opelika High School Seniors for receiving their CNA certification. Certificates were presented to the group at awards day in May. Pictured (lr): Jadarrel Kelley, Luz Martinez-Vivanco, Myranda Hawkins, Casey Wilson-OHS Health Instructor, Jasmine Jones, DeAnna Wilson, and Leah Collins. Not pictured, Dejah Sampson.

Auburn 8th Graders Dedicate 20% of Day to Passion Project

Imagine you are given 20% of your workday to dedicate to a passion project of your choice. That is exactly what 8th graders at Auburn Junior High School are doing during Mrs. Dayna Browning's language arts class. Companies like Google and 3-M have done 20% projects with their employees giving us products like Gmail and PostIts! Check out the AJHS 20 Percent Blog to read more about the event and the student projects: http:// blogginwithbrowning. blogspot.com.

Wrights Mill Road Poetry Café

The WMR Poetry Café featured lots of “cool cats” sharing their favorite poems, including original ones they created.

Auburn City Schools Principals’ Selfie

Several ACS Principals representing at Auburn High's Graduation night took time out for a group selfie. Pictured L to R back row: Jeff Johnson, Pete Forster, Karen Mason, Dr. Duriel Barlow. L to R front row: Karen Snyder, Dr. Mary Anna MartinSmith, Debbie Brooks, Dr. Jackie Greenwood and Dr. Shelley Aistrup.

NJHS at Opelika Middle School Donates Items to Tallapoosa Girls Ranch

As a service project, members of the National Junior Honor Society at Opelika Middle School sponsored a Paper Product/Cleaning Supply Drive for the Tallapoosa Girls Ranch. The members collected over 450 items for the Ranch. NJHS students were excited to be able to help supply the items to donate to the Girls Ranch and hope to make it an annual event. Ms. Amanda Massey is the sponsor for the National Junior Honor Society at OMS. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

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Springwood Scholars Place 2nd in Snead State Community College Tournament

The Springwood Scholars team placed second out of 24 teams in the Snead State Community College Tournament held in Boaz, AL. The Snead State Tournament is the longest running scholars bowl event in the United States (45 consecutive years). The Wildcats were undefeated in pool play defeating St. Bernard "A" (430-90), Westbrook (420-150), Cleveland (400-120), Sand Rock (460-120), and St. Bernard "B" (310-120). In the playoffs Springwood defeated Susan Moore in the quarterfinals (610-0) and West Point "A" in the semifinals (330-280). In the championship match the Wildcats lost a close match to the largest high school in Alabama, Hoover High School (270-400). For the second year in a row Springwood senior Venu Reddy was honored as the MVP of the tournament. Springwood's final regular season match before Nationals will be the West Point Invitational on May 13th in Cullman, AL. Pictured (l-r): Venu Reddy (Captain and MVP), Anica Choi, Simon He, and Ananth Reddy.

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

Drake Middle Schooler Named Winner of National Poster Contest

Dole Packaged Foods is pleased to announce that Yeeun Cho, a 7th grader at J. F. Drake Middle School, is a National Grand Prize Winner of the 2016-2017 National School Fruitapalooza Poster Contest! Pictured is Cho with Dr. Duriel Barlow.

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Congratulations to the Liles Smiles no cavity winners!

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Autauga County Schools

Trinity Spring Band Concert and Cookout

2017 Opelika City Schools Retirees

This year's spring band concert and cookout at Trinity was a hit! Performances were given by the Beginning, Intermediate, Advanced, and Jazz Bands. It was a wonderful night of fellowship, food, and fun!

Congratulations to the 2017 Opelika City Schools Retirees! The group was honored by the OCS Board of Education at the annual Retirement Tea at Jeter Primary School on May 23. Pictured (l-r): James McKinstry-Morris Avenue Intermediate, Marcia FrankNorthside Intermediate, Alex Molt-Jeter Primary, Beth CampbellJeter Primary, Becky Hunt-Southview Primary, Kay Spriggs-OHS, Annell Smith-Carver, Catherine Davis-OCS Lead Nurse, and Tommy Palmer-Morris Avenue Intermediate (not pictured, Willie Ross).

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

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Opelike HS Student Receives Harvard Prize Book Award

Opelika High School Junior, Mary Bentley Barfield, was presented with the Harvard Prize Book Award during a ceremony at OHS in May. Bentley was presented with the Prize Book Award by Dr. Farrell Seymore, OHS Principal. According to the information given during the presentation, “The Harvard Prize Book program was established by Harvard alumni in 1910 as a part of an effort to attract the attention of talented young students to the opportunities at the College. In the program’s first years, a Prize Book was awarded at only a handful of schools in the New England area. Today, nearly 2,000 Prize Books, sponsored by local Harvard alumni, are awarded in schools all over the world. The Prize Book is awarded to an outstanding student in the next-to graduation class who displays excellence in scholarship and high character, combined with achievement in other fields. The winners of this award, through their intelligence and variety of achievement, exemplify Harvard’s commitment to excellence.” Congratulations to Mary Bentley Barfield! Pictured (l-r): Brittney Cahela-OHS Guidance Counselor, Bass Barfield-brother, Mary Bentley Barfield, Jan Barfield-mother, and Dr. Farrell Seymore-OHS Principal.

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Respect Celebrating School Lunch Heroes at Wrights Mill Road Elementary

Wrights Mill Road loved celebrating our School Lunch Heroes during National School Lunch Week. Our students created cards and artwork for their "Buckets of Love" during the week. The lunch line had special decorations all week to show that Ms. Susie, Mr. Joseph, and Ms. Minnie are truly our heroes!

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

A Classical and Christian Academy 745-2464

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Autauga County Schools

Auburn HS Class of 2017 Graduate Receives Inaugural WWII Museum Leadership Award

Wrights Mill Road 5th Grade Wax Museum

5th grade students presented their research and biographical projects during a Wax Museum tour of famous people. This project was a great learning experience for our entire school to enjoy as 3rd and 4th graders learned from our 5 grade students.

Auburn High School grad Sutton Smith (Class of 2017) visited New Orleans to be recognized as one of the first winners of The National WWII Museum’s inaugural Billy Michal Student Leadership Award. Smith was chosen, along with one student from each state, to receive the award for her bravery in spreading her message this past school year through a series of suicide awareness discussions. Here she is pictured (L to R) with Billy Michal (for whom the National WWII Museum's Student Leadership Award is named) and James Lovell (Commander of Apollo 13) right before the gala at the National WWII Museum.

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

Children’s of Alabama is ... l The

third largest pediatric hospital in the United States

l Licensed

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first LEED-certified hospital building in Alabama

l One

of the Top 20 employers in Alabama with more than 4,700 employees across the state

CHILDREN’S HOSPITALS

l The

pediatric teaching hospital for the School of Medicine at UAB

l Home

to the Pediatric & Congenital Heart Center of Alabama, where more than 450 cardiac surgeries are performed annually

l Site

of the only pediatric kidney dialysis program in the state — one of the largest in the country

Russell Campus

l Home

205.638.9100 1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 Benjamin Russell Hospital for Children Lowder Building McWane Building Children’s on Third Outpatient Center Children’s Park Place

to one of the largest burn units in the Southeast

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Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

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Springwood School Holds Annual Project Workday

Wildcat Workday has been an annual tradition at Springwood School since 2006, where students in all grades participate in age-appropriate community outreach projects. Students were involved in 28 projects throughout West Point, Lanett, Valley, Auburn, and Columbus, replacing a morning of classes with a morning of community service. These projects include everything from painting, sorting, picking up trash, working on city, church, and school grounds. Through this event, students learn that small acts of kindness, helpfulness, and caring can make a big difference to others. Left photo, (L-R) Jack Brown, Josh Oswalt, and Jordan Plank (9th Grade) helped plant shrubs at a new Fuller Center house in Lanett. Right photo, (L-R) Rachel Remmel, Tatum Smith, Anica Choi, Maya Battle, Kitty Key, and Yeonwoo Kim (11th Grade) helped organize food shelves at the Christian Service Center in Lanett.

Opelika HS Senior Selected as Cheerleader at Troy University

Congratulations to Opelika High School Senior Georgia White on being selected as a cheerleader at Troy University. Pictured (l-r): Ben White-father, Georgia White, Valeri White-mother. Back row: Dr. Farrell Seymore OHS Principal, Brandy Edwards Head Cheer Coach, and Ashley Pickers.

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Autauga County Schools

Opelika HS Senior Signs Track Scholarship

Congratulations to Opelika High School Senior Antanavious Butler on signing a track scholarship with Neosha Community College in Kansas. Pictured (l-r): Head Track Coach Jimmy Johnson, Antanavious Butler, and Lucy Butler (mother). Back row (l-r): OHS Athletic Director Erik Speakman and OHS Principal Dr. Farrell Seymore.

Congratulations to Opelika High School Senior Diondra Larkin on signing a track scholarship to the University of Alabama Huntsville. Pictured (l-r): Rebecca Larking (grandmother), Diondra Larkin, Felita Larkin (mother). Back row (l-r): Dr. Farrell Seymore (OHS Principal), Donnie Larkin-father, Head Track Coach Jimmy Johnson, and OHS Athletic Director Erik Speakman.

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G Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: Kendra@aopmagazine.com.

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Trinity 8th Grade Worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fair

Mrs. Sistrunk's World Geography class participated in the first annual Trinity World's Fair in May. 8th grade students researched various countries and set up booths to share their information. It was a huge success, and we look forward to many more fairs to come!

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Wrights Mill Road 5th Grade Entrepreneur Fair Wrights Mill Road held its annual 5th grade Entrepreneur Fair to sell unique handmade

goods-bath bombs, bookmarks, candles, jewelry, grab bags, original artwork and more! Mrs. Nelson, our school counselor, lead the students through creating a business proposal, product development, and calculating profit. A proceed of each booth went to the charities of our EAGLES teams. Learning, Serving, and Leading at WMR!

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Autauga County Schools

100% Pass Rate for Opelika High Students Achieving C-Tech Fiber Optic Cabling Certification

In an effort to expand the opportunities in the information technology (IT) program at Opelika High School, Opelika Power Services provided fiber optic training equipment to OHS for the IT students at the beginning of the school year. "We are excited to have the opportunity to partner with Opelika High School and it's Information Technology Program," stated Derek Lee, DirectorOpelika Power Services. "It's amazing to see these students learning about fiber cabling and becoming certified while still in high school." During the 2016-17 school year, all students in the Networking I and Networking II classes participated in C-Tech’s Introduction to Network Cabling—Fiber Optic-Based Systems. Students learned the basics of testing and troubleshooting fiber optic cables including the termination of ST and SC cables. Students learned the theory of fiber optics and light transmission. Each student completed various hands-on activities and a written test to demonstrate their knowledge of basic fiber optics and networking concepts. At the conclusion of the semester, 100% of the students in those two classes successfully completed the program and received a Network Cabling Specialist - Fiber Certificate. With this new certification, it is possible for a student in the Class of 2017 to graduate with the skills and training that would help them begin a career at OPS. Opelika Power Services is not only working to create homes in Opelika that are “Future Focused”. They are partners with Opelika High School in helping ensure that OHS graduates are “Future Focused” as well. Congratulations to the following students on receiving certification. Pictured: Ben Ambrocio, Londarius Baldwin, Montravian Billinglsey, Bradlee Black, JaQuan Black, Teyonsia Brown, Reese Butz, Richard Coffey, Jibril Hughley, Kenyatta Hutchinson, Deltrick Jackson, Parker King, Daishon McCoy, Martell Norman, Montell Norman, Victor Pascual Cruz, Jarell Presley, Marco Rowell, Billy Sanders III, Grant Sasser, Jacques Sparks, Jyquavouis Stone, Travis Stone, Timothy Thomas, and Justin Whitlow. Pictured with the students are (l-r): Mr. Kyle Pinckard-OCS Career Technology Coordinator, Mr. Derek Lee-OPS Director, Mr. Dean Works-OHS Information Technology Instructor, and Dr. Farrell Seymore-OHS Principal.

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Trinity Commencement Ceremonies

On May 11, Trinity celebrated the commencement ceremonies of its 15th graduating class. We pray God's blessing on these young men and women as they enter the next chapter of their lives.

Celebrating 25 years! L i vi n g. L ovi n g. L e a rn i n g.

d ring l." I o he he f us

Caring for your children and laying a foundation for their growth and success has been our calling for the past 25 years. Our unique, caring approach is rooted in an understanding that each child is a gift and a responsibility. These precious little ones deserve our attention, security and love. Just like home. Today, our commitment to your children continues with caring and experienced teachers, a stimulating and secure environment and an atmosphere of living, loving and learning you’ll only find at Growing Room.

334-501-2044 | 644 North Dean Road, Auburn, AL M-F 6:30am - 6:30pm | Ages 6 weeks – 12 years

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Opelika Middle School Honor Roll Students

Congratulations to the Opelika Middle School 8th grade students who were honored at the annual Honor Roll Banquet in May. Twenty students were on the "All-A" honor roll and forty-two students were on the "A-B" honor roll. Following dinner, students were presented with certificates by Mr. Keith York, OMS Principal and Mrs. Emily Finck, OMS Guidance Counselor. The banquet was sponsored by USAmeriBank and the New Blossom Shop. Pictured with the group are Mrs. Emily Finck-OMS Guidance Counselor, Mrs. Connie Preston-USAmeribank, and Mr. Keith York-OMS Principal.

TAKE YOUR SWING

TO THE NEXT LEVEL Grand National is offering golf clinics this summer for junior golfers, ages 7-17, taught by PGA Certified pros. The clinics will be held in three, Monday – Thursday sessions from 8:30-11:30 a.m. SESSION 1: June 5-8 · SESSION 2: June 19-22 SESSION 3: July 31-August 3 · $100 PER SESSION Lunch and a free Par 3 round are included each day. » FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER, CALL 334.749.9042. «

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Autauga County Schools

Auburn HS Student Selected to Attend Alabama Girls State

This past school year, Auburn High's Yousra Omer was selected as one of two from AHS’s junior class to represent our school family at Alabama’s Girls State. At Girls State, she was elected Lieutenant Governor and was nominated to attend Girls Nation. Omer was selected to be second alternate and as Lieutenant Governor, she was named the recipient of the Kay Ivey Girls State Lieutenant Governor Scholarship! Alabama Girls State is one of the most respected and coveted experiential learning programs presented in the United States. Girls State is a week-long, fun-filled, hands-on learning opportunity for the best and brightest young women in the State of Alabama. The program is sponsored by the American Legion Auxiliary.

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Wrights Mill Road Battle of the Books Teams

Wrights Mill Road is proud of their Battle of the Books teams who competed against teams from 3rd- 5th grade schools. Keep on reading this summer!

Springwood Scholars Bowl Team Competes in NAQT High School Championship Tournament

The Springwood Scholars Bowl team recently competed in the NAQT High School National Championship Tournament. The event was held at the Marriott Marquis Hotel in downtown Atlanta on May 26th-28th. This is the fourth consecutive year that Springwood has qualified for the Super Bowl equivalent of Scholars Bowl. The AISA state champions (for the sixth consecutive year) finished with an excellent 5 and 5 record placing 163rd out of 304 teams. Springwood senior Venu Reddy was one of 25 students to make the all-tournament team. Out of over 1,400 of the top scholars bowl players in the country, Venu was the 13th highest individual scorer. Springwood’s wins came against Chanhassen, MN (245-100), Bellaire, TX (330-180), Lasa C of Austin, TX (300-205), Olympian A from San Diego, CA (240-175), and Darien, CT (205-200). Losses came to Silver Springs, MD (200-320), Jefferson C of Alexandria, VA (155-235), Early College at Guilford A from Greensboro, NC (110-405), Carnegie Van Guard of Houston, TX (120-350), and Reagan of San Antonio, TX (225-290).

Opelika HS Students Place 3rd at Southern Union Business Tournament

Trinity Reading Challenge Winners

Congratulations to our 3rd grade reading challenge winners: Calli Ann Stephens, Philip Belcher, Josh Riddle, and Miller Wilson. They all read a total of 15 books in 3 different genres.

Congratulations to Opelika High School Junior, Austin Crowley, for winning 3rd place in Computer Science at the 28th Annual Southern Union Business Tournament. Congratulations to Opelika High School Junior, Chasity Fisher, for winning 3rd place in Accounting at the 28th Annual Southern Union Business Tournament.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

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Wrights Mill Road Celebrates Nurses’ Week

Wrights Mill Road wished a Happy Nurses' Week to our sweet Nurse Kristina Woody. Thank you for fixing our boo boos, checking our levels, scooping up ice packs, and educating us on healthy living. We love you!

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Auburn HS Wayne Murphy Scholarship Recipients

The Wayne Murphy Scholarships are presented to one male and one female Auburn High School senior student/athlete that display the traits former AHS Coach and Athletic Director Wayne Murphy valued and demonstrated in his life such as enthusiasm, leadership, character and a strong work ethic. This year’s recipients are Payne Norton and Ashley Carter. Norton ran track and cross-country for AHS; he plans to attend Samford University and run track. Ashley played softball at AHS and threw javelin; she plans to attend Auburn University where she will go out for the track team. These scholarships are the result of an endowment established with the Community Foundation of East Alabama (CFEA) in memory of Coach Wayne Murphy, Auburn High’s first athletic director, who lost his battle to cancer in 2011. Coach Murphy was the embodiment of the “can do” spirit, and he instilled this attitude in his students in the classroom as well as in athletics. He was always able to motivate his athletes to run faster and farther, jump higher and perform better.

Murphyʼs final professional role was as the first director of athletics for Auburn High School, a position he held from 1991 until his retirement in 1998. It was his vision that eventually led to the current AHS field house and the modernized track facility that now bears his name. Pictured L to R: CFEA Executive Director Barbara Patton, Ashley Carter, Payne Norton and ACS Associate AD Ed Crum.

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Autauga County Schools

Opelika HS Senior Signs Baseball Scholarship

Congratulations to Opelika High School Senior Carter Milner on signing a baseball scholarship to Faulkner University. Pictured (l-r): Brent Milner (father), Carter Milner, Cristy Milner (mother). Back row (l-r): Coach Blair Irvin, Coach Levale Speigner, Megan Fuller (sister), Head Baseball Coach Nick Richardson, Coach Mantre Battle, and Dr. Farrell Seymore (OHS Principal).

Congratulations to Opelika High School Senior Jake Chase on signing a baseball scholarship to Faulkner University. Pictured (l-r) Kenny Chase (father), Jake Chase, Lorrie Chase (mother). Back row (l-r): Dr. Farrell Seymore (OHS Principal), Coach Blair Irvin, Tammy Chase (stepmother), Coach Levale Speigner, Knox Chase (brother), Coach Mantre Battle, McKinna Chase (sister), and Head Baseball Coach Nick Richardson.

Please send school news and photos to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com. Opelika Middle School Student Invited to Duke TIP State Recognition Ceremony

Wrights Mill Road Retirees

Wrights Mill Road wishes a Happy Retirement to Ms. Susie, Mrs. Gray and Mrs. Wild. Thank you for the years of love and service you gave to our school. We love you!

Opelika Middle School 7th grade student Sydney Lowe was recently recognized by Mayor Gary Fuller and the members of the Opelika City Council for being invited to the Duke TIP State Recognition Ceremony at the University of Alabama. Pictured with Miss Lowe are (l-r): Mayor Gary Fulller, Emily Finck-OMS Duke TIP Coordinator, and Mr. Keith York-OMS Principal. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

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A Page in a Book Help Wanted: Big Jobs for Little Kids Once a child is old enough to help with small tasks, parents can often find themselves with a surplus of assistance. When children are invited to participate through helping, it creates a sense of value and responsibility. Sorting clothes, mixing batter, carrying the mail, and other opportunities for kids to contribute can be a vital part of supporting their positive self-image. This empowerment of the child can also lead to young ones seeking innovative and bold ways to ‘help’. The following titles explore the lighter side of youthful assistance and the humorous results of their enthusiastic help.

Sprout Helps Out

by Rosie Winstead (Penguin / Dial) Even though Sprout is young, she’s still older and bigger than her baby sister, Bea. So while her mom works from home, Sprout has big ideas about how she can help with the baby. Citing all the ways that she takes care of herself, Sprout’s enthusiastic confidence in her ability to help powers her grand plans for entertaining Bea. The actual chaos that Sprout’s ‘help’ generates only makes her successful assistance more powerful. Pencil and watercolors soften the edges of the mess, leaving the helpful spirit of Sprout to shine in this sweet story of a girl who takes on responsibility with love and wonderful abandon.

by Mo Willems (Disney / Hyperion) Nothing delights young Nanette’s taste buds like a warm baguette. When her mother gives her a coin to make her first solo trip to the bakery for a fresh loaf, Nanette is delighted to help. Navigating a journey fraught with distractions (from Brett with his clarinet to Mr. Barnett with his pet, Antoinette), Nanette and her coin reach the bakery. Once the baguette is bought, the return home with the hot, crispy loaf is all that remains. But how long can a tempting baguette last in the hands of a hungry Nanette? Celebrating a child’s first taste of responsibility and the hazards that can come along with the task, this delightful romp will whet every young readers appetite for opportunities to help.

Laundry Day

by Jessixa Bagley (Roaring Brook Press) Tic and Tac are badger brothers who are bored beyond measure. As they loudly lament the lack of something to do, their mother makes suggestions while she does the laundry. The brothers discard all her ideas, until she offers something new that they’ve never done before; hang up the wet laundry on her clothesline. Armed with instructions on how to handle wet clothes and use clothespins to hang them, Tic and Tac make quick work of getting the laundry on the line. But their excess energy (and new-found talent) give them grander ideas for helping that may put their mother’s patience on the line. Saluting the enthusiasm that comes with teaching kids new skills, this charming picture book tips its hat to the rewards of chores. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Skipping to the Altar Q. My wife and I make good money, and our daughter’s college education is pretty much paid for through pre-paid tuition and scholarships. We just started your plan to get out of debt and take better control of our finances. When we get to Baby Step 5, which is saving for college, can we substitute that with saving for a wedding? A. That would be fine. I’m glad you’re thinking ahead. It’s always a good idea to save toward a wedding if you have the financial resources to do so, because weddings are real and they’re coming. The average wedding in America today runs around $35,000. Of course, you don’t have to pay anywhere near that amount to make it a beautiful occasion. Your household income, debt, savings and other factors will all play into how much you can afford.

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Bad Advice From a Bad Friend Q. My husband and I are currently in Baby Step 2, and paying off all our debt except for our home. A friend recently told us to pay off everything except for the credit card debt. She says we can then settle for a far less amount and not have so much money go-

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A. There’s a good reason this idea feel unethical to you — it is unethical! Would a good friend, a smart friend, encourage you to do something as dishonorable as not pay a bill you’re morally and legally obligated to pay? I don’t think so. If you’re able to pay your bills, you pay your bills. It’s as simple as that. Now, if you honestly can’t pay the bill, and you have to settle upon a mutually agreed upon amount with the creditor or collector, then it’s okay at that point to try and reach a settlement. Otherwise, it’s a simple question of ethics. Pay the bill!

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ing out the door. This feels a little unethical to me. What are your thoughts?

Just remember to pay cash for the wedding. If you have to go into debt to make it happen, then you’re talking about too much money. It’s as simple as that. Crunch the numbers with your wife, and see what you two can handle. And remember, there’s absolutely no correlation between the cost of a wedding and the success of the relationship!

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Embracing Teen Conflict for Good If your family could be described by a television program, would it be the older than dirt Leave It To Beaver series, or more like the can’t wait till it’s over The Kardashians? Despite every parent’s earnest hopes that their family will look something like the perfect sitcom, I can guarantee there’s going to be some reality TV thrown in there, too. Maybe you’re living some of that reality right now. Your children have hit the teen years and you feel like your home has been thrown into tail-spin. Your teens are seeking increased independence while, as parents, you are trying to let the reigns out slowly. Or perhaps raising your child has always been a battle, causing you to think about waving the white flag and giving up. I get it—the teen years are a challenge! Conflict is a pre-cursor for change. Don’t ignore what is before you as it might just be the greatest opportunity to influence your child… in the midst of some of the hardest parenting times. Mom and Dad, let me offer you some encouragement. While these years are challenging, they also present critical opportunities to guide your teen through the real issues of life. Don’t shy away from these opportunities that appear as headaches and heartaches. Keep engaged with your teen no matter the level of stress on either side. This is where the battle is won for your teen. And this is when you need to be your teen’s best ally not his or her worst nightmare. Here’s some guidelines for dealing with a few challenging examples.

Example #1: The Angry Teen

Maybe the situation you’re facing today is constant conflict with your teen. Let’s first normalize this. Conflict will occur as your teen’s self-interests clash with your desire to look after his or her best interests. Remember, anger is a secondary emotion, so when your teen is angry, look to understand what is the root cause. Be genuinely curious to learn what he or she is feeling and thinking, wanting or needing. Talk to you teen! Don’t match their anger, but ask them to share with you why they are angry. Your calm approach will bring stability to them and their emotions. You may not always be Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

able to meet their unmet needs or wants, but you can listen to them and learn about them. Most important, you can help them process their deep feelings and frustrations. Sometimes that is enough. You may even be able to relate to them on many levels, remembering when you were a teen. In this way, your teen’s anger can be a doorway for developing an honest and healthy relationship based on mutual love and respect. You may be thinking, “This is impossible!” You may be saying, “You don’t know my kid. He’s unapproachable!” Resist reliving the past or feeling intimidated in the present. Yes, it may start out bumpy, but let you teen know you are going to keep trying, you are going to keep engaging, and you are going to keep loving. It’s been said that “no one cares how much you know until you show how much you care.”

Example #2: The Withdrawn Teen

The withdraw teen is an apathetic teen. Anger indicates they are still passionate and engaged, but apathy indicates they are in the danger zone of disengagement— checked out from everyone and everything. Signs of the withdrawn teen are that the things she used to care about no longer excite her. He has no motivation, no ambition, and lacks any strong emotion. This is the teen who can take parents to the end of their ropes because they seem unreachable. The withdrawn teen can pose a heartwrenching challenge–sometimes calling for the urgent action. First, keep engaging and keep reaching out to your teen in ways that are caring and loving. Again, it’s all about communication. Rather than criticizing them for their apathy, invite them into a dialogue to learn about what is troubling them inside. Let them know that nothing they can tell you will stop you from loving them. Let them know that you are genuinely there to listen and help. Take time out to show you really care. 26

That might mean scheduling a night on the sofa to talk, a walk, a dinner out, or a road trip—whatever will create a real opportunity for real communication. But if your teen won’t talk to you, don’t throw up your hands. You still have options. Suggest that they talk with a trusted therapist or pastor. Many times teens are afraid to share with their parents the truth about their overwhelming feelings and even dark struggles, but they will talk to someone else if given the opportunity. Don’t feel rejected or hurt. Be grateful they want to deal with their issues. If they aren’t talking to you, they need to talk to someone. In addition, a professional can assess whether your teen is dealing with something more than temporary apathy. They can evaluate if serious depression or suicidal thoughts are preventing recovery.

Example #3: The Acting-Out Teen

These are the teens who wake you up in the middle of the night asking you to bail them out of jail. These are the teens who are sexually active, using drugs, drinking alcohol, bullying others, self-harming, have an eating disorder, or are exhibiting some other self-destructive behavior. This is the time for you to resist only focusing on the external issue to look deeper to the motivational driver. When you are tempted to berate your teen for external behaviors, stop to talk about the “why” of what they are doing. This can be illuminating to you and your teen. Often times, your teen hasn’t stop to look at the “why” or where it is taking them. Your teen may be acting out of depression, insecurity, faulty thinking, fear, loss, and peer pressure. While setting healthy boundaries and addressing the behavior, you can also offer your teen desperately needed support, love, and a place to process their pain. Let them know that there is way out and a way up.

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

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As my teenage daughter’s birthday was approaching, I asked her if she wanted to have a party with some friends. “I guess,” she answered in her typical non-committal way. While she thought she could have a killer party by just inviting friends, ordering pizza and plugging her phone into a speaker, I knew they would spend much of the party concentrating on their phones instead of each other. Instead, I offered her a few teen party ideas that I hoped would serve as the “warm up band” and get her friends moving, laughing and making memories at the killer party my daughter envisioned. Here are the six ideas that we came up with!

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Night at the Club – Turn your basement into a Dance Party or Sports Bar (minus the alcohol, of course). Teens love to Karaoke via your Wii, Playstation or Xbox and dance games like Just Dance gets the party going fast. Consider asking your guests to wear neon or white and set the room in black light. Games like Darts, Pool, Foosball or Air Hockey are usually found in the basement of a family with teens. You can also bring in Cornhole boards and bean bags for a friendly, competitive game. Instead of pizza, try serving nachos, cheese sticks and chicken wings. An 80’s Party – My kids know all

the 80’s songs from Bon Jovi to ZZ Top because they grew up listening to them. At an 80’s themed party guests can dress up as their parents did back in the day. Offer a variety of 80’s games for the kids to play including Simon, Uno, Rubik’s Cube and Atari Flashback (available on Amazon). Keep the party going with “Who Wants to be an 80’s Star” which is a spinoff of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire”. Create 80’s trivia questions with a life line to parents or poll the audience. Serve popular 80’s foods like pizza rolls, jello pudding pops, sloppy joes, and of course, Tab.

Murder Mystery – Not only is

Minute to Win – This is a fun

Amazing Race – An Amazing Race party requires the guests to break up into teams, read and decipher clues and perform challenges in the shortest amount of time. The game can easily be set up in your neighborhood. Set challenges at the park, a neighbor’s backyard or a local business. Game printables can be found on Etsy. Incorporate food in your challenges so everyone is fed, but offer appetizers and desserts before and after the race. Challenge food games may include making a Froot Loop necklace with a certain pattern of colors and then eating it before moving on to the next challenge.

Social Media Party – Ok, if you can’t beat them, join them. This is as close to it comes to just hanging out. Set up a photo booth with props for fun party posts. Play “Find a Post” where players receive points for having posted a particular item on social media – a team logo, their pet, a picture of a Starbucks cup. Serve food that only requires one hand to eat so the teens can continue to eat and Tweet. Try foods you can stick with a toothpick like cheese cubes, cocktail meatballs or cut up fruits and veggies. AOP

a Murder Mystery Party a theme within a theme, it is also a fun way to release your inter-actor. Some themes include the Wild West, a night at the theatre, glamorous millionaires, medieval times, prom or even the holidays. You can find downloadable games online which will include character descriptions, a storyline and directions. Inform your guests ahead of time so they can dress for their role or offer costumes when they arrive. Your meal should revolve around your murder mystery setting.

party for all ages and a simple set up for the party-planning challenged. The guests are given one minute to do a variety of simple challenges, like picking up four dry penne pastas with a dry spaghetti noodle. Players can be individual or broken into teams of 2 or more. Have everyone do the same challenges and keep record of everyone’s times. For game ideas, check out the Minute to Win it website and head to the dollar store for supplies. Food ideas include quick and easy make-it-yourself bars like tacos, pasta or baked potatoes.

Pam Molnar is a freelance writer and mother of three teenagers. She is the author of a party game series on Amazon and creator of Pam’s Party Printables on Etsy.

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8 Ways to Spark Summer Reading Most parents want to encourage reading, especially during the summer when kids often have more unstructured time. Now that so much reading occurs online, parents may wonder about the best way to nurture a reading habit. Is reading on a device as good as getting lost in an old-fashioned book? The emerging answer is that both print and digital reading have value, but they promote different ways of thinking. One revealing study found that college students prefer reading online when they are looking for quick information. However, when they really want to dig in and master new material, they turn to paper books. Without the distraction of clicks, students find they engage more deeply and comprehend more of what they read. Students also reported that they liked being able to manipulate physical books—underlining, writing notes in the margins, turning down corners and being able to thumb back to a favorite passage. This study suggests that online reading often resembles snacking--quick, easy to digest, maybe even a little addictive. Physical books offer more of a meal--stimulating and nourishing on many levels. Because kids gravitate naturally to devices (and snacks), parents may want to put a little effort into helping kids discover the pleasures of print. Fortunately, most kids are receptive. A biannual study of reading habits by Scholastic magazine found that 86% of kids think it’s important to be a good reader, and 6 in 10 agreed that, “I really enjoy reading books over the summer.” Here are some ideas about turning that spark into a flame.

Read aloud. In the Scholastic survey, kids 6–11 said that they enjoyed reading aloud, mostly because it was special time with their parents. Even after they can read independently, many kids and even teens enjoy settling in to listen to a good story. Kids who can read for Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

themselves may enjoy taking turns reading. Or they might like to read dialogue with each child taking on the voice of a different character.

Hunt for books together. In the Scholastic study, 41% of kids said it was hard to find books they wanted to read. Turn the quest for good books into something you do as a family. Visit your local library regularly. Find out if there’s a story hour at the local bookshop. Hunt for bargain books at garage sales and thrift stores. Look for a Free Little Library in your neighborhood or create one of your own (littlefreelibrary.org/). Good lists of recommended books are also available from Reading Rockets (readingrockets. org/books/summer ) and the American Library Association (ala.org/alsc/awardsgrants/notalists/ncb). Find books at the right level. Kids

sometimes disconnect from reading when books seem boring because they are too easy or frustrating because they are too hard. If possible, ask your child’s teacher to recommend books that are “just right” for your child. Or zero in on books at the right grade level by using the Scholastic book wizard (scholastic.com/teachers/bookwizard ).

Follow their lead. Like adults, kids read more of what they love. If a child gets hooked on a particular genre, author or series, run with it. And don’t get hung up on format. Magazines, graphic novels and comics can all be a gateway into reading. So can video or board games that include lots of written directions. For really reluctant readers, try activating captions on the television so kids can read along with their favorite shows. Make it social. Enthusiasm for reading is contagious, so encourage kids to share books they like whenever possible. Some kids 30

may enjoy writing reviews on kid-friendly sites like dogobooks.com or spaghettibookclub. org. Kids can also follow favorite authors online. Many interact with readers through local readings or websites that feature games and giveaways. Or consider organizing a summer book club. PBS offers tips about how to get one going (tinyurl.com/njgpk7k).

Find the right incentives. Just keeping a list of books they’ve finished can be motivating for some kids. Others will benefit from a small treat--maybe a gummy “bookworm” or a pack of Smarties. An entire board of clever incentives including Reading Bingo is available on Pinterest (tinyurl.com/lp6krcg). Consider using reading itself as a reward. During the summer, let children stay up an extra hour beyond bedtime--if they are reading. Set aside time. Designate a specific time for family reading. Turning off TV, computers and cellphones makes it clear that reading is a priority. To get a better picture of how your kids are spending summer days, try using the media time calculator as well as the media planner created by Healthy Children (tinyurl.com/z8wbef5). Get creative. Think about fun ways to integrate books into whatever you’re doing this summer. Instead of handing your child a cellphone during wait times, carry a chapter book that you can pull out in a doctor’s waiting room or between games at a tournament. Create a treasure hunt with a new book as the treasure. Have a Reading Picnic where everyone reads outside while munching on sandwiches. Take an audio book on your family road trip. Create a secret reading space by setting up a tent in the backyard or putting a sheet over a card table. Whatever you do, keep it light. If your goal is to have kids who read because they love it, making rules too rigorous or setting expectations too high can be counter-productive. Experts say that reading as few as six books over the summer helps kids avoid the dreaded summer slump. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2017, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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Birthday Traditions You’ll Want to Try By Kerrie McLoughlin

told how they were meant to be brought into the family and how special they are.

Every year when I was a kid my parents would let me choose where I wanted to eat dinner out

2. Birthday letter.

for my birthday. Another birthday tradition they

Every year I type up a birthday letter for each of my children telling them what great things they did and said and learned during the past year. I give the birthday child a copy, then save a copy in a binder and on my computer for myself because we all know kids can’t keep track of stuff. The plan is to give each of my children a copy of all their letters when they move out, which means they’ll have somewhere between 18 and 30 letters to enjoy!

kept going was to have a small party for me with family and friends, including a cookout since I have a June birthday. Kids love to feel special, and it can be a challenge to find the time to come up with ways to make a birthday a knockout. Never fear! Below are 8 ideas for birthday

3. Birthday slideshow.

traditions to start with your own kids. Pick and

With just a few clicks of your mouse you can create a special slideshow using PowerPoint or a similar computer program. Just pop in photos, size them and add cute captions. You can even add some music if you like. After your child watches it about a zillion times, save it to a CD and pop it in a special place (safe deposit box, fireproof box, etc.) so your child will always have it.

choose a few of them each year…and stick with the ones you and your birthday kid love! 1. Rise and shine. I like to wake my kids up on their birthday not with, “Get up! It’s time for school!” but with an extra long snuggle and the condensed version of the day they were born. Who doesn’t like to hear their birth story?! Adopted and foster children can be

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

4. Photos. I try to take as many pictures as I can on birthdays and even make sure I’m included in some of them, since I’m the mom

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and all! Later we like to get out old photo albums and the birthday kid’s baby album.

5. Special meal. One of my kids loves the neighborhood restaurant where they sing Happy Birthday and are given a balloon to take home. Another is content heading to the local fast food indoor play area and grabbing bites of food in between trips down the slide. Make at least one meal of the birthday child’s day something out of the ordinary!

6. Special treat. We like to hit the cupcake restaurant or grab huge, frosted cookies from a local baker and share with our friends and neighbors to spread the celebration around. A cheap – and just as special – route would be to make your child’s favorite dessert at home…cookies, cake, banana splits, shakes or ice cream sundaes are always a good bet. Depending on which fruit is in season (or go frozen!), a decadent fruit smoothie made with frozen yogurt could be nice.

7. Party (doesn’t have to be on the actual birthday). If you get a few gray hairs every time you think of planning a birthday party, don’t fret. Options include: a simple party at your place with just a few people, a bash at a park shelter or a celebration where a local children’s party place does all the work.

8. Birthday weekend sleepover with a few special friends (for kids over age 7). Warning: this one is not for the faint of heart! I suggest a maximum of 3 friends to stay the night at your house on a Friday night around the time of your child’s birthday. Order pizza to make life easy on yourself, grab some movies from the library and have them set up their sleeping bags as far away from your bedroom as possible. AOP

Kerrie McLoughlin is the proud and kooky mom of five. Check out their adventures at TheKerrieShow.com.

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Toys That Build a Balancing Act

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Balance is key to reaching many of a child’s developmental milestones. Raising their head, pulling up to a stand, taking their first steps are all achieved when a baby finds and hones their balance. It’s marvelous how our bodies take in a variety of stimulus while making a multitude of minute adjustments, all to achieve a physical equilibrium. As kids grow and change, their bodies benefit from constant new challenges that calibrate and improve their balancing abilities. The following recommendations are ideal for encouraging and building a child’s sense of balance as they grow.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Ice Cream Balance Game

Teeter Popper (Fat Brain)

Offering a versatile range of play options, the Teeter Popper from Fat Brain encourages all kinds of balancing moves for the kid in control. Cupped in the curve for seated maneuvers, young athletes can wobble and spin their way to better balance. Improved coordination follows when kids take a stand on the edges, twisting and tilting the Teeter Popper. Especially cool for kids who love the satisfaction of popping bubble wrap, the suction cups peppered around the bottom of this gadget generate rapid-fire pops as they engage and disengage with a hard floor. An irresistible sensory challenge for kids, the multiple moves they create with the Teeter Popper are all part of building better balance.

A delicately perched desert stand is ready to host the sweet challenge of players vying to build the best confection without knocking the whole tray over. While it can be played solo as a balance building challenge, this game is most rewarding when multiple dessert chefs take turns using tongs to select and place the colorful cookies, cones and ice cream scoops on the tower without disturbing other pieces. As players strive to build a balanced diet of ice cream, the risk increases with each play that the tasty tower will topple. Supporting the development of steady hands and cool coordination, only the best balancing act will finish dessert first.

Gonge River Stones

Kids Balance Cushion, Jr.

Leaping from stone to stone at the creek’s edge is an outdoor rite of passage for many youth. But when the pebbled steps of the waterways aren’t available, Gonge’s River Stones replicate the experience in both indoor and dry land settings. Placed in a path of their own design this set of six steps offer varying degrees of steepness and difficulty for young adventurers making their way from stone to stone. The sturdy rubber marked bases offer stability as well as a measure of protection for floor surfaces. As children build their confidence and improve coordination, they can create new balancing challenges as they reconfigure their high and dry paths across imaginary rivers (or the lava floor).

Parents of kids with ‘the wiggles’ have welcomed the Kids Balance Cushion as a fun solution to help keep little ones centered. Directing their energy into the multiple and minute body adjustments needed to maintain their balance, this cushion’s subtle design keeps kids using their extra energy to stay centered. Maximizing ‘active sitting’ balance cushions have been a positive tool to cultivate better posture and improve physical focus for more restless children. The surface nubbins provide tactile stimulation as well as gripping action to keep sitters centered. With a deceptively simple structure the Gaiam balance cushion offers a complex set of rewarding outcomes for kids as they channel their surplus energy into staying seated.

(Little Treasures)

(Gaiam)

(Gonge)

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

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

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Jubilee Farm Pony Parties

Pony rides and petting zoos for your party. www.jubileefarmponyparties.com

Kona Ice

Party truck will bring tropical shaved ice for a sweet, cold treat. 334-707-3650 www.kona-ice.com

The Big Green Bus

School bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility. 334-332-0833 www.mybiggreenbus.com

Equipment/Game Rentals

257 Pa 334

162 Pa 334

253 On 334

Sp 4 Party Plus Rentals

220 Off cha 334

Ballard Party Rentals

Space Walk of Auburn

Rentals include inflatalbes, slides, games, concessions, characters and more. 334-749-6419 www.4partyplus.com Combo bouncers, slip and slide, games. 334-444-5660 www.ballardpartyrentals.com

Cakes, Cupcakes and Treats

3794-G Pepperell Parkway, Opelika 334-275-4331 Cakes and cupcakes for all occasions. Create your own Birthday Box. www.gigiscupcakesusa.com

Bruster’s Ice Cream

Great American Cookies

2172 East Univerity Drive, Auburn Ice cream cakes and pies are loaded with personality. 334-821-9988

Cakeapotamus

Opelika We are a custom, small-batch bakery and cake studio, specializing in odd and unusual cake requests and occasional shenanigans. 334-749-0653 cakeapotamus@gmail.com www.cakeapotamus.wordpress.com

Chill

234 West Magnolia Ave, Auburn , Auburn 334-502-1114 2486 Enterprise Drive, Opelika 334-745-7714 Yogurt, custard, sorbet, smoothies, yocakes and more. www.chillyogurtcafe.com

D Square Donuts

1627 Opelika Road (inside the mall), Auburn Cookies for special days…just choose design and add your message. 334-821-4553 www.greatamericancookies.com

O-Town Ice Cream

815 South Railroad Avenue, Opelika Delicious decisions...there’s a story in every flavor. 334737-5700 www.otownicecream.com

Sweet Malisa’s

108 South 9th Street, Opelika From cookies to cupcakes, brownies to homemade banana pudding. 334-737-6565 www.sweetmalisas.com

The Gourmet Tiger

213 North Dean Road, Auburn Cakes in all sizes and designs. 334-821-9222 www.gourmettiger.com

1625 East University Drive, Auburn Donuts, fritters and special order cakes. Handmade slow churn ice cream and Italian ice. 334-887-1112 www.dsquaredonuts.com

Entertainment

Dairy Queen

Provides creative shows and plays various characters such as Santa Claus. Creates amazing balloon art. 334-887-8029 www.drmagicfun.com

2019 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika DQ® Treatzza Pizza® / DQ® Cakes / DQ® Blizzard® Cakes / DQ® Mini Blizzard® Cakes. 334-742-9500 www.dairyqueen.com

GiGis’s Cupcakes

132 North College Street, Auburn 334-887-2253 Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

Offering a selection of space walks, wet/dry slides, obstacle course, games and more. 334-887-5437 www.herecomesfun.com

Limousines Memories in Motion

Choose from vintage convertibles, Bentley sedan, limos, party bus and a classic VW bus. www.memoriesinmotionclassics.com

Tiger Limo

Offering stretch limos, cooperate car service, buses, antique cars for all occassions. 334-444-4444 www.auburnlimo.com

Touch of Class Limousine

Limos, cars and buses for any occasion. 334-284-2673 www.touchofclassal.com

Paper Goods/ Decorations/Invitations Auburn Awards & Fine Paper

1971 East University Drive, Auburn 334-887-7768 www.auburnawards.com

Dr. Magical Balloons

Auburn Flowers and Gifts

Farmer Brown’s Party Animals

Check It Out!

We bring the party to you..pecializing in petting zoos and pony rides. 334-750-2591 www.fbpartyanimals.weebly.com

217 North College Street, Auburn Balloon bouquets, gourment gifts and flower arrangements. 334-502-4567 www.aubflowers.com 239 North Gay Street , Auburn Costumes, balloon bouquets and arches, party products and more. 334-826-0308 www.check-it-outballoons.com

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Hobby Lobby

2570 Enterprise Drive, Opelika Party supplies, invitations, crafts and more. 334-745-2730 www.hobbylobby.com

Lynnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hallmark

1627 Opelika Road (inside the mall), Auburn Party invitations and unique gifts. 334-887-9889

Party City

2534 Enterprise Drive, Opelika One-stop store for all your celebrations. 334-745-1568 www.partycity.com

Party Planners Special Arrangements

2201 Enterprise Drive, Opelika Offering a wide array of products including tables, chairs, linens, dance floors and more 334-737-2995 www.specialarrangements.com

Places to Party- Bowling

traditional and contemporary ceramic arts.Â 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art

901 South College Street, Auburn An exciting environment to hold social gatherings, presentations, performances and birthday parties. 334-844-1484 www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Opelika Parks and Recreation: Ceramics Party

1102 Denson Drive, Opelika All kids enjoy a project to be completed at the studio and taken home. 334-705-5547 www.opelika.org

Perch Jewelry Studio

416 South Gay Street, Auburn Guests design and create their own jewelry, with instruction provided by dedicated staff. 334-209-1378 www.perchjewelrystudio.com

Spirited Art

3051 Fredrick Road, Opelika Book a fun painting party. Bring your drinks and party food. 334-363-5257 www.myspiritedart.com

AMF Auburn Lanes

719 Opelika Road, Auburn Every party package includes bowling lanes, shoes, party supplies and great food and drinks. 334-887-6573 www.amf.com

Places to Party-

Places to Party-Artistic

My Gym

Auburn Parks and Recreation

300 North Dean Road, Auburn Party features non-stop action-packed activities, games, puppets, songs and more. 334-346-0987 www.mygym.com/auburn

ad on page 17 and 31

425 Perry Street, Auburn Have a ceramics/pottery painting party. Work with

Gymnastics/Cheer/Dance ad on page 9

Premier Spirit Academy

923 B. Stage Road, Auburn Tumbling, obstacle courses, nerf gun wars, Ninja battles and more. 334-821-7300 www.premierspiritacademy.com

Xtreme Athletics

3732 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika Party includes air tramp, tumbling mats, balance beam and more. 334-759-7030 www.xtremeathleticsauburn.com

Places to PartyMartial Arts World Champion Taekwondo ad on page 33

2701 Fredrick Road, Suite 308, Opelika 90 minutes of supervised fun including martial arts instruction, board breaking and games. Birthday kid will cut the cake with a real sword! You can expect non-stop games, activities, challenges, and even learning some martial arts the whole way! Birthday kid gets a free uniform 334-737-5617 www.martialartsauburn.com

Auburn Academy of Martial Arts 323 Airport Road, Suite J, Auburn Be a black belt for the day with games and fun. Break a board too. 334-502-7221 www.auburnacademy.com

Auburn Mixed Martial Arts 2515 East Glenn Avenue, Opelika Birthday kid is a black belt ninja for the day and break a board. 334-887-0818 www.auburnmma.com

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Outdoor Parks Auburn City Parks ad on page 17 and 31

425 Perry Street, Auburn Outdoor pools: Samford and Drake, Bowden Park, Felton Little Park, Town Creek Park, Hickory Dickory Park, Kiesel Park, Martin Luther King Jr Park, Moores Mill Park and Sam Harris Park. 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Kreher Preserve and Nature Center

222 North Collge Street, Auburn Trained naturalist presents a 45 minute program. Many themes to choose from. 334-707-6512 www.auburn.edu/preserve

Opelika City Parks

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika Aquatic Pool, splash park, Floral Park, Munipcal Park and Springvilla Park. 334-705-5560 www.opelikasportsplex.com

The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum

Unique Gifts Kids/ Adults Fringe Kids ad on page 25

116 South 8th Street, Opelika Upscale consiqnment clothing and accesorries for kids ages infant through teens. 334-745-4497 www.fringeofopelika.com

Dottie Ollie

2131 Interstate Drive, Opelika Boutique clothing and gits. 334-521-0201

Fun and Fancy

3051 Fredrick Road, Opelika Gifts, clothing and shoes from maternity to tween. 334-745-2237

Kidz World

1220 Fox Run Avenue, Opelika Name brand clothing at huge savings. 334-705-8098 www.usatowncenter.biz

Serendipity of Auburn

1550 Opelika Road, Auburn Gifts to monogram for babies, tweens and moms. 334-329-7475

Miscellaneous Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 17 and 31

425 Perry Street, Auburn Rent a party space. Offering multiple gymnasiums, parks with pavillions, game rooms, ceramic studio and more. 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery Sights and sounds of the zoo makes for a perfect spot for a party. Pavillions and playground area. 334-240-4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com

Cyber Zone ad on page 3

107 North 9th Street, Opelika Lazertag arena, arcade games and bounce zone. 334-737-5000 www.cyberzone334.com

Treadstone Climbing ym ad on page 4

4209 Milgen Road Suite 7, Columbus Rock wall fun makes for exciting birthday parties for all ages! Our gym offers everything from beginner to expert climbs and that service extends to our birthdays! Our staff will guide your party and steer them towards the climbing best suited to their abilities. We can make sure your small children have a blast and the adventurous adults get their adrenaline fix! 706-507-ROCK(7625) www.treadstoneclimbing.com

Auburn Escape Zones 1234 Commerce Drive, Auburn Work as a team to unlock clues and escape the room. 334-329-7088 www.auburnescapezones.com

Opelika Parks and Recreation 1001 Andrews Road, Opelika Rent a party space. Offering multiple gymnasiums, parks with pavillions, game rooms, ceramic studio pools and splash pad. 334-705-5560 www.opelikasportsplex.com

Surge Trampoline Park 2506 Pepperell Pakway, Opelika Indoor trampoline park with multiple areas to explore. Include party host. 334-737-5599 www.surgeopelika.com

Photographer Picture Perfect by Candy

Auburn Full service studio, specializing in contemporary artistic portraiture of children, tweens, teens and families. 334-663-3343 www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

Restaurants

CiC

155 End 334

Ro Ind 334

Nif

115 Fun 334

Nif

917 Fun 334

248 Piz 334

400 Ice 706

100 Ice 334

122 On 334

Brick Oven Pizza

Burger King

Au A

2520 Enterprise Drive, Opelika Create own pizza from scratch. 334-745-0223 www.brickovenonline.com 1740 South College Street, Auburn Indoor playground. 334-466-8961

Burger King

415 2nd Avenue, Opelika Indoor playground. 334-749-3351

Burger King

1400 Columbus Parkway, Opelika Outdoor pools: Samford and Drake, Bowden Park, Felton Little Park, Town Creek Park, Hickory Dickory Park, Kiesel Park, Martin Luther King Jr Park, Moores Mill Park and Sam Harris Park. 334-741-9120

Chick-fil-A

2052 Tiger Town Parkway, Opelika Indoor playground. 334-741-7112

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425 Kid kick age cle 334

392 Par Bas Bas ley 334

371 Par bal mo 334

CiCi’s Pizza

1550 Opelika Road, Suite 30, Auburn Endless pizza buffet 334-821-2600

McDonald’s

Ronald Drive, Auburn Indoor playground 334-821-5303

Niffer’s Place

1151 Opelika Road, Auburn Fun atmosphere for parties 334-821-3118 www.niffersplace.com

Niffer’s Place

917 South Railroad Avenue, Opelika Fun atmosphere for parties 334-787-5989 www.niffersplace.com

Shakey’s Pizza Parlor

2487 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn Pizza party with party room and arcade games 334826-0060 www.shakeys.com

Skating Columbus Ice Rink

400 4th Street , Columbus Ice skating packages include mascot visit 706-225-4500 www.columbusicerink.org

Eastdale Mall Ice Palace

1000 Eastdale Mall, Montgomery Ice skating or broom ball 334-277-2088 www.eastdale-mall.com/icepalace

The Skate Center

1221 Commerce Drive, Auburn Only indoor roller skating center in our area 334-821-1127 www.theskatecenterauburn.com

Sports Auburn Parks and Recreation: A Ball of a Birthday ad on page 17 and 31

425 Perry Street, Auburn Kids will enjoy a fun-filled games of basketball, kickball or soccer that is referree-officated. Package includes party décor, plates/cups/ set-u[ and clean-up. 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Auburn University Kid’s Club

392 South Donahue Drive, Auburn Party with the Auburn tigers! Packages for Men’s Basketball, Women’s Basketball, Gymnastics, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Swimming & Diving, Volleyball and Equestrian 334-844-9706 www.auburntigers.com/kidsclub

Sports Academy

3716 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika Party games include tug-o-war, relay races, dodge ball, kick ball, flag football, soccer, baseball and more. 334-749-4040 www.sportsacademyauburn.com

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FamilyCalendar Wednesday, June 21

Thursday, June 22

Make Music Day Free, live musical performances, opportunities to make music and other musical events take place around the world on the longest day of the year – June 21. We invite ALL MUSICIANS to come play, listen and enjoy! Auburn. www.spicersmusic.com.

Family Fun Night Eastdale Mall, Montgomery. 5:00-7:00 p.m. Family Fun Nights provide local families an exciting evening filled with hands-on activities, story time, and performances by community attractions, and discounts by participating merchants. The best part? It’s all FREE! Make sure to check in at the Customer Service Centre to receive your wrist band to participate in all of the activities. (334) 277-7380.

Green Thumb Gardening Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Get ready to bring a new life into this world…plant life that is! Come ready to decorate a pot to plant your new flower in! $12 Ages 5-12. 3:00-4:00 p.m. Chilton County Peach Festival Clanton. Join in as Chilton County celebrates Alabama peaches. Pageants and tournaments are held throughout the week, along with the Peach Run, art exhibitions, a cook-off, fishing tournament, live music, parades, live and silent auctions, barbecue and much more. Call 205-755-2400 for more information. Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. Two times to choose from, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library. AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “The Secret Life of Pets.” Auburn 14 Theater. 10:00 a.m., Mondays and Wednesdays. Admission is $4 plus tax and comes with a Kids Pack, which includes a kid size popcorn, drink, and gummy candy. First Annual Auburn Downtown Restaurant Week, June 18 - 24 Restaurant Week is a weeklong event where each fine dining restaurant will offer a pre-set menu for lunch or dinner. The most exciting part is that these exclusive dinner menus will offer a unique three-course dinner for only $30. Acre, Hamilton’s, Moe’s BBQ and Gigi’s Cupcakes are just a few of the fantastic restaurants participating. www.downtownauburnonline.com. Acre Farmers Market Acre, 210 Glenn Ave, Auburn. Join us for our weekly Wednesday farmers market! We’ll be featuring crops from our own Acre Urban Farms. Enjoy complimentary tastings of pimento cheese and our featured cocktail. It’s the perfect way to celebrate an afternoon! We can’t wait to see you there! Admission to the Farmers Market is FREE! www.acreauburn.com. Puppet Troupe Auburn Public Library. 3:30 - 4:00 p.m. and 5:30 - 6:00 p.m. Join the Auburn Public Library Puppet Troupe for shows full of laughs, wonder, and puppets sure to delight every one of all ages! Each show will feature TWO performances for your entertainment. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Bee Auburn Bee Auburn will feature educational workshops, walks and activities all themed around pollinators and culminating in the Bee Auburn main event, a street festival - styled block party in the Gay Street parking lot on Friday, June 23 from 6 - 10 p.m. The Friday night event will feature live music, pollinator-related vendors, a farmers market and the Pollinator Path, an interactive walk around downtown Auburn that will educate participants on the economic impact of pollinators especially in the Auburn community! auburnalabama.org/parks.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus 3:00-6:00 p.m. The Market is an open-air, growers-only farmers market that operates each Thursday, MayAugust, at Ag Heritage Park on the Auburn University campus. The Market features area vendors offering fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, herbs, ornamental plants and cut flowers as well as locally produced jams and jellies, baked goods, soaps, honey, goat cheese and more. www.agriculture.auburn.edu. Covington Movie Club: “Moana” Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Hot summer day with nothing to do? Come in and enjoy a movie, popcorn and drink! $3 per movie, ages 6-12. Preschool Storytime Auburn Public Library. Two times to choose from, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Chilton County Peach Festival Se June 21 for details. Summer Serendipity: Southeast Raptor Center Auburn Public Library. 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Join us each Thursday at this program for all ages. You never know what you might learn! www.auburnalabama.org/library. Gamer’s Society Auburn Public Library. Computers will be reserved in Youth Services for Minecraft, and the Programming Room will be open for Pokémon, board games, and video games. Games must be rated E, E10, or T, no rated M games. The Auburn Public Library will provide materials for video game play. Gamers must have a valid Minecraft account to play. Minecraft will be limited to 10 participants. www.auburnalabama.org/library Bee Auburn See June 21 for details.

Friday, June 23 Friday On The Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. Join us Friday evenings from 6:30 until 8:30 on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, your coolers, your pups (on a leash) and enjoy your family and friends and music provided by local musicians. It’s a great way enjoy a slower pace on Friday. Come join us! www.russellcrossroads.com. Boys Night Out Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Boys will be boys! Come hang out with the guys and enjoy food, a movie and basketball and much more! $20, ages 7-12. 6:00-9:00 p.m. Chilton County Peach Festival Se June 21 for details. Remarkable Reptiles Get a close look at some of our scaly park inhabitants like lizards, snakes and turtles. Live animals will be used in the program. Learn about their natural history and how to identify them. Meet at the covered shelter next

to the Trading Post in the campground. $3 ages 4 and up $5 parking. FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. www. gastateparks.org/RDRoosevelt. 9:30 a.m. 706-663-4858. Young Writer’s Club Auburn Public Library. 10-11 a.m. Grades 2-5. Do you love to write and tell stories? Join the Young Writer’s Club at the Auburn Public Library. We will do one hour of fun writing exercises and sharing our work in a safe environment. Join us to stretch your writing skills. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Teen Writer’s Club Auburn Public Library. 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Do you love to write and tell stories? Join the Teen Writer’s Club at the Auburn Public Library. Each week will explore storytelling and writing through exercises, author advice, and sharing our work. Bring your imagination, laptop, pen, paper, and create something new! www.auburnalabama.org/library Anime and Manga Art Club Auburn Public Library. Ages 10-18, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Have fun drawing and socializing at this fun new club. Bring your own art supplies and fun. www.auburnalabama.org/library Bee Auburn Block Party See June 21 for details.

Saturday, June 24 8th Annual Day in Clay Hosted by the Dean Road Ceramics Studio. Visit our fullyequipped studio, enjoy beverages and snacks as well as watch demonstrations by studio members. Visitors who want to have the experience of working in clay can pay $10 per person and select either an adult or kids project to create. All projects will be taught at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. Stop by the Harris Center located at 425 Perry Street to reserve your spot by Thursday, June 22! (334) 501-2944. Science On Saturdays “Geology of Alabama” Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. 10:00 a.m. Dr. Jim Lacefield will present a fascinating program on the complex geology of Alabama. You’ll never look at Alabama rocks the same way again. Admission is $5 for non-members and $4 for members. Children 3 and under are free. Canceled in event of rain. 334-844-8091. Birmingham Heart Walk Designed to promote physical activity and hearthealthy living, the Heart Walk creates a family-friendly environment that’s fun and has a lasting impact on our community. Learn more at BirminghamHeartWalk. org, and participate on social media using the hashtag #BhamHeartWalk. www.birminghamheartwalk.org. Cycling for Sight Cycling for Sight is a 20-mile, 45-mile, 65-mile, and 100-mile fun ride to benefit the Montgomery Lions Club Community Foundation charities (501(c)(3). The ride commemorates Helen Keller, a native Alabamian, who courageously challenged Lions Club members to become “knights of the blind in the crusade against darkness”. Montgomery. www.montgomerylionsclub.com. 18th Annual Denim & Diamonds Concert This year’s performers feature MCA Nashville recording star, Josh Turner and Martina McBride, the four time winner of the Country Music Association’s Female Vocalist of the Year. All proceeds will benefit Columbus Hospice and Columbus Hospice of Alabama. Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter.org. 7:00 p.m.

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FamilyCalendar Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park Pine Mountain, Ga. 4:00 p.m. Team up (1-6 people) and complete in our on-site scavenger hunt with your camera or phone. Pick up checklist/rules at the park office anytime. Pictures must be brought to office with checklist by 4 p.m. Winners notified by phone that day to pick up prize. No charge. Parking fee $5. www.gastateparks.org/FDRoosevelt. Young Eagles Day Columbus Airport, 3250 W. Britt David Road, Columbus, GA. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). All kids ages 8-17 are invited to take a Free airplane ride over Columbus! Most flights last 20 minutes. The goal is to provide a fun and educational aviation experience. 706324-2453. Gun and Knife Show June 24 - 25. Multiplex, Cramton Bowl, Montgomery. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. www.visitingmontgomery.com. Chilton County Peach Festival Se June 21 for details. Legomania Auburn Public Library. Show off your engineering skills and joins us at the Auburn Public Library every Saturday for Legomania! Bring your friends, and build anything your imagination can invent! www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Sunday, June 25

fresh bread, homemade ice cream or local honey. The Opelika Grows Farmers Market is location is across the street from the Cultural Arts Center on Glenn Street, near the community garden. 334-745-0466. Literary Classics Club: “Anthem” by Ayn Rand Auburn Public Library. 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. A book discussion group for you to divulge your inner literati! Teens, grades 9-12, can join us for hot beverages and lively discussion as we dissect some of the most influential pieces of western literature. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Jax Fest Jacksonville. 256-435-8115. www.jacksonville-al. org. Jacksonville Community Center and High School Stadium--A celebration of the 4th of July with fun activities at the community center and concluding with fireworks at the high school stadium. All day, with fireworks approx. 9 p.m.

Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. Two times to choose from, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library. AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “How to Train Your Dragon.” See June 21 for details. Puppet Troupe See June 21 for details.

Thursday, June 29

The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus See June 22 for details.

AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “How to Train Your Dragon.” See June 21 for details.

Preschool Storytime Auburn Public Library. Two times to choose from, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Summer Swing: Conner Lorre, Neil Diamond Tribute Artist Every Tuesday, beginning in May, the Opelika Parks and Recreation Dept. hosts a free outdoor concert at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Park in Opelika. This 13-week concert series offers a wide variety of musical entertainment. Burgers and hotdogs available for purchase from 6:157:30 p.m. Complimentary lemonade during the concerts. Rocky Brook Rocket complimentary train rides. Bring a quilt or lawn chair and enjoy the evening! 334-705-5567. Baby Time Auburn Public Library. Two times to choose from, 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library. O Grows Farmers Market Come walk arount the Opelika Grows Farmers Market each Tuesday this summer from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to find fresh, local produce ranging from heirloom tomatoes to collard greens. You may even find some

14th Annual Randolph County Sheriff PCA Rodeo Wedowee See June 30 for details.

Acre Farmers Market See June 21 for details.

Monday, June 26

Tuesday, June 27

Saturday, July 1 Legomania See June 24 for details.

Gun and Knife Show June 24 - 25. Multiplex, Cramton Bowl, Montgomery. 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. www.visitingmontgomery.com.

Magical Monday Matinees Auburn Public Library. 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Whether muggle or magical, hop aboard the Hogwarts Express and join us at the Auburn Public Library, and embark on a magical journey through the wizarding world of Harry Potter! The library will feature each Harry Potter movie in chronological order on Monday afternoons in June and July, culminating with a birthday celebration on July 31! www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Anime and Manga Art Club See June 23 for details.

Wednesday, June 28

Standard Deluxe: In-The-Round With Brett McDaniel, Dallas Dorsey and Ben Sutton Waverly, Al. 334.826.6423.

Teen Writer’s Club See June 23 for details.

Summer Serendipity: COA Fire Dept. See June 22 for details. Gamer’s Society See June 22 for details.

Friday, June 30 Friday Night Splash Samford Pool, Auburn. Join the Aquatics Staff for Friday Night Splash! Enjoy music, a cookout, games and fun at the pool! 6:00-8:00 p.m. (334) 501-2957. auburnalabama.org/pools. Friday On The Green See June 23 for details. 14th Annual Randolph County Sheriff PCA Rodeo Wedowee Bull riding, calf roping, clowns, barrel racing, food, games and family entertainment. 7:30 p.m. 256-357-4545. An Evening with Rock Killough and Rick Carter Standard Deluxe, Waverly. www.standarddeluxe.com. Remarkable Reptiles See June 23 for details. Young Writer’s Club See June 23 for details.

Arti Gras Alexander City. www. russellcrossroads.com; Featuring dozens of artists from throughout the south. You can see the juried work of all of our exhibitors that includes but isn’t limited to paintings, jewelry, photography, sculpture and more. On the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Come early and stay late! Home Sweet Home Festival Childersburg. Celebrate Independence Day Weekend with DeSoto Caverns this July at this Food & Music Festival. Our park will be filled with the sounds of incredible singers and musicians, and the delicious smells of local Food Trucks with a variety of cultural delights and refreshing, sweet treats. www.desotocavernspark.com. Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park See June 24 for details. Home Depot Kids Workshop Opelika. Free Home Depot Kids Workshop first Saturday of every Month. 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon designed for children ages 5 – 12. All children get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Summer Sunset Music Series: Brandon Holden and Daniel Lee Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, Ga. Enjoy sweet sounds of Summer with live music from a variety of bands, on Robin Lake Beach. Stop by the Robin Lake Beach Pavilion & Beach Bar for great food and drinks all night long. Admission for day and overnight guests as well as Annual Passholders, and up to five guests in the same vehicle, is free.. Bring a chair or blanket to enjoy the show. www.callawaygardens.com.

Sunday, July 2 Arti Gras Alexander City. www.russellcrossroads.com; Featuring dozens of artists from throughout the south. You can see the juried work of all of our exhibitors that includes but isn’t limited to paintings, jewelry, photography, sculpture and more. On the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Come early and stay late!

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FamilyCalendar Home Sweet Home Festival See July 1 for details. Summer Sunset Music Series: Drew Ellis and Kyle Wilson See July 1 for details.

Monday, July 3 AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “Pup Star.” See June 21 for details. July 3 Independence Day Celebration at The Wharf Orange Beach. Main Street at the Wharf will be home to loads of children’s activities and serve as the prime vantage spot to watch the fireworks display. Spectra the Sound and Light Spectacular shows will resume directly after the fireworks. Kids Activities: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m. Fireworks: 8:45 p.m. Admission is FREE; some kids activities will range from $5 - $10. www.alwharf.com. Grand Bay Watermelon Festival Enjoy a day and half of family fun, arts, crafts, entertainment, food, and rides for the young and young at heart on July 3rd, with no admission charge, from 3 to 7 p.m. Only on July 4, admission is $5 per vehicle and you can enjoy all the free sliced ice-cold watermelon you can eat, arts, crafts, entertainment, food and rides from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Children’s area, Open Car Show and “Pretty Baby” contest. www.grandbaywatermelonfestival.org. Magical Monday Matinees See June 26 for details. Summer Sunset Music Series: Aces and 8s and Bar Stool Prophets See July 1 for details.

Tuesday, July 4 O Grows Farmers Market See June 27 for details. Grand Bay Watermelon Festival See July 3 for details. Annual Fourth of July Celebration Sponsored by Briggs & Stratton Enjoy great food, live music, free goodies, and THE best fireworks display in the entire area! So grab your picnic basket, blanket, and the family and join us for a fabulous night of entertainment! Gates open at 6 p.m. Entertainment begins at 7 p.m. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. The rain date is Wednesday, July 5th. The FREE Celebration will be held behind the Home Side of the Duck Samford Football Stadium. (334) 501-2930. 4th Of July Blast Lake Martin. Find your place on the grassy lawn at The AMP for the largest 4th of July Fireworks Display in the Southeast. Gates open around 5. Music generally starts around 6 and the Fireworks light the sky following the National Anthem at 9. RussellLandsOnLakeMartin. com, or for the line up of bands and tickets go to The AmpOnLakeMartin.com or call 256-397-1019. 4th Of July Boat Parade Lake Martin. Decorate your boat and join the patriotic

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

crowd at Kowaliga Marina as boats of all sizes, shapes and decoration will “parade” from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor circling just past the lighthouse. Spectators line the shoreline along the parade route to applaud their favorite patriotically decorated boats and contestants. 334-857-2111 for times and info! www.russellmarine.net Thunder on the Mountain Fireworks Show Birmingham. 9 p.m. Thunder on the Mountain 2016 will once again illuminate the skies above Birmingham’s beloved iron man, Vulcan. Free to the public, this year’s show will last approximately 20 minutes. The show will be choreographed to a musical soundtrack that will feature a mix of patriotic favorites and popular musical performances. www.visitvulcan.com. Freedom Fest 4th of July Celebration The National Infantry Foundation, Columbus. Free Admission. Live cannon firings start at 11 a.m. and repeat every hour on the hour. Youngsters 12 and under are invited to dress up their bicycles, tricycles, strollers and wagons for the Pint-Sized Patriots Parade down Heritage Walk. Silver Wings parachute team will jump after parade. Live bands will perform throughout the day . Free kids movies at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Email info@nationalinfantryfoundation.org for more information. Fourth of July Lakepoint State Park Marina, Eufaula. 4:00 p.m. until Fireworks end. Fun, Food, Live Music & FIREWORKS. Fairhope Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks Display The City of Fairhope’s annual Fourth of July Festival and Fireworks display in Henry George Park and the Fairhope Municipal Pier. The Baldwin Pops Band Independence Day Concert will begin at 7:30 p.m. in Henry George Park. A variety of patriotic music will be played before and during the fireworks display. The Fairhope fireworks display will begin at approximately 9 p.m. Alcohol-free event. www.cofairhope.com. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “Moana” & “Frozen” NIM Kids is hosting the 2017 NIM Kids Film Fest (Summer Edition) Tuesday – Thursday, June 6 through July 27. The films are FREE to the public and are offered twice each day at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Admission is on a first come, first seated basis. Concessions will open prior to the first showing. Summer Sunset Music Series: Sons n Britches and Josh Newsome and the Regulars See July 1 for details.

Wednesday, July 5 Acre Farmers Market See June 21 for details. AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “Pup Star.” See June 21 for details. Messy Madness Wanna make a mess and NOT get in trouble for it? Enjoy messy creations, food fights and slimy crafts! (Wear old clothes!) $10 All ages. 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Covington Rec Center. Family Fun Night Eastdale Mall, Montgomery. 5:00-7:00 p.m. Family Fun Nights provide local families an exciting evening filled with hands-on activities, story time, and performances by community attractions, and discounts by participating merchants. The best part? It’s all FREE! Make sure to check in at the Customer Service Centre to receive your wrist band to participate in all of the activities. (334) 277-7380.

Puppet Troupe See June 21 for details.

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National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “Moana” & “Frozen” See July 4 for details.

Twilight Adventure Walk FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. 8:00 p.m. Awaken your senses to the sights and sounds of the evening. Great program for all ages as we walk 1 mile along a natural surface trail and investigate the lives of spectacular spiders, misunderstood bats, and fantastic frogs. Bring a flashlight. Meet at the Trading Post in the campground.

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Covington Movie Club: “Finding Dory” Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Hot summer day with nothing to do? Come in and enjoy a movie, popcorn and drink! $3 per movie, ages 6-12. The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus See June 22 for details. Summer Serendipity: Movie Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them” See June 22 for details. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “Moana” & “Frozen” See July 4 for details.

Friday, July 7

Auburn Knights Alumni Association presents Auburn Knights Orchestra Reunion Marriott Hotel and Conference Center at Grand National in Opelika. This evening’s concerts feature the 1930’s/1940’s era band, the 1950’s era band, and the 1960’s era band. Admission is $10 at the door. A cash bar will be available and food service is available in the Lakeview Room and Patio Bar before and after the concerts. A complimentary parking lot shuttle will also be available. 334-887-9883. World Champion Domino Tournament Andalusia Kiwanis Fair Complex--More than 300 people will participate in this tournament featuring fun, fellowship and competition for all ages. More than $20,000 in cash and trophies will be awarded. Registration, 6:30 a.m.; games begin at 8 a.m. with sweepstakes drawings at 7 p.m. Saturday. 334-222-2030 or 334-222-5830. Remarkable Reptiles FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. 9:30 a.m. Get a close look at some of our scaly park inhabitants like lizards, snakes and turtles. Live animals will be used in the program. Learn about their natural history and how to identify them. Meet at the covered shelter next to the Trading Post in the campground. Friday On The Green See June 23 for details. Young Writer’s Club See June 23 for details. Teen Writer’s Club See June 23 for details.

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FamilyCalendar Anime and Manga Art Club See June 23 for details.

Saturday, July 8 World Champion Domino Tournament See July 7 for details. Family Discovery Hike & Nature Walk Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. 3:30 p.m. No registration required. FREE to the public. (334) 8448091. preserve@auburn.edu. Antique Engine & Tracker Show Tannehill State Park, McCalla. Outdoor Antique Engine & Tractor Show Gate Admission: Adults $5, Seniors $4, Children $3, 5 & under FREE. www.tannehill.org. Legomania See June 24 for details. Barks & Brews Red Clay Brewing Company, Opelika. 3:00-5:00 p.m. The Lee County Humane Society joins Red Clay Brewing Company for the adoption event of the summer. Barks and Brews is an opportunity for you to sample Opelika’s finest local beer, socialize with the passionate people of Lee the County Humane society, and meet your best friend. www.facebook.com/leecountyhumanesociety. Second Saturday at Columbus Museum 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus. 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Free Admission. Drop by the art cart with your children and grandchildren each month to explore various mediums of art, enjoy art related stories, and participate in gallery hunts at the Museum. Children of all ages are welcome and encouraged to participate. www.columbusmuseum.com. Auburn Knights Alumni Association presents Auburn Knights Orchestra Reunion See July 7 for details. Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park See June 24 for details. Summer Sunset Music Series: Krissy Andrews See July 1 for details. Junior Golf Tournament Godwin Creek Golf Course, Columbus. 9:30 a.m. Fore Kids Columbus is a Georgia state recognized youth golf program. The mission of this local non-profit organization is to bring quality golf instruction to children in a fun and exciting environment. Saturday morning junior golf classes are ongoing throughout the year!

Tuesday, July 11

Friday On The Green See June 23 for details.

Jr. Bakers! Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Junior bakers will experience baking dishes with a surprise baker! Class max: 6. $15 Ages 9-12. 3:00 - 4:30 p.m.

Toddler Drive-In Movie at the SportsPlex Get out of the house and get artistic with your toddler! Decorate your “cardboard cruiser”, and watch a movie afterwards. Supplies for cardboard cars will be provided. Bring your car home to continue the fun! Older siblings are welcome to attend. Refreshments during the movie. Ages 2-5. 5:30 - 6:15 p.m.--Make Your Car. 6:20-8:00 p.m.--Watch movie.

O Grows Farmers Market See June 27 for details.

Summer Swing: James Brown Trio Every Tuesday, beginning in May, the Opelika Parks and Recreation Dept. hosts a free outdoor concert at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Park in Opelika. This 13-week concert series offers a wide variety of musical entertainment. Burgers and hotdogs available for purchase from 6:157:30 p.m. Complimentary lemonade during the concerts. Rocky Brook Rocket complimentary train rides. Bring a quilt or lawn chair and enjoy the evening! 334-705-5567. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “Finding Nemo” & “Finding Dory” See July 4 for details.

Wednesday, July 12 AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “Sing.” See June 21 for details. Acre Farmers Market See June 21 for details. Puppet Troupe See June 21 for details. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “Finding Nemo” & “Finding Dory” See July 4 for details. Twilight Adventure Walk See July 5 for details.

Thursday, July 13 Family Float-n-Movies: “The Incredibles” Join the Aquatics Staff for a movie under the stars… while relaxing and floating on a tube or lounging on the pool deck! Auburn City Pools will host our annual FloatN-Movie series in the 2017 pool season. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite inflatable from home, as none will be provided. Doors Open: 8:15 p.m. Movie Begins: 8:30 p.m. Doors Close: 8:45 p.m. (334) 5012957 •auburnalabama.org.

Anime and Manga Art Club See June 23 for details. Remarkable Reptiles See July 7 for details.

Saturday, July 15 The Velcro Pygmies Bottling Plant Event Center, 614 North Railroad Ave, Opelika. $12 advanced/$15 at door.

Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park See June 24 for details. Super Saturdays at LaGrange Art Museum 112 Lafayette Pkwy, LaGrange, Ga. 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Free family art day! Spend the afternoon at the Museum. Families, neighbors, and friends can tour the current exhibit and explore an art activity. www.lagrangeartmuseum.org. 2017 Shelby County Shindig BBQ Cookoff Columbiana, Al. This non-sanctioned cook-off offers up to 20 teams the chance to compete for Best Ribs, Best Sauce, Chef’s Choice and People’s Favorite! Music on the back porch, arts, vendors and fun are always part of the event. Park at the Courthouse and hop the trolley. Bring a chair but not a cooler. www.shelbycountyshindig.com. Legomania See June 24 for details.

The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus See June 22 for details.

Summer Sunset Music Series: Money Shot See July 1 for details.

Goofy Games Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Games, games and more games! Enjoy relays, like egg drop, and group games, like Twister! $10, Ages 6-12. 3:00-4:00 p.m. Summer Serendipity: Ron Anglin with Quite a Catch! See June 22 for details.

Monday, July 10 Adult Discovery Hike & Nature Walk Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. 8:30 a.m. No registration required. FREE to the public. (334) 8448091. preserve@auburn.edu.

National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “Finding Nemo” & “Finding Dory” See July 4 for details.

Magical Monday Matinees See June 26 for details.

Teen Writer’s Club See June 23 for details.

Build a Boat Festival RiverFront Park, Montgomery. www.visitingmontgomery.com.

Gamer’s Society See June 22 for details.

AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “Sing.” See June 21 for details.

Young Writer’s Club See June 23 for details.

Friday, July 14 The Velcro Pygmies Bottling Plant Event Center, 614 North Railroad Ave, Opelika. $12 advanced/$15 at door.

Monday, July 17 AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “Home.” See June 21 for details. Magical Monday Matinees See June 26 for details.

Tuesday, July 18 O Grows Farmers Market See June 27 for details. Summer Swing Concert: Muse See July 11 for details.

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FamilyCalendar Wacky Water Games Be prepared to get soaked with bubbles, water balloons and more! $10 Ages 6-10. 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. Covington Rec Center. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “Tangled” & “The Jungle Book” See July 4 for details.

Wednesday, July 19 AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “Home.” See June 21 for details. Acre Farmers Market See June 21 for details. Puppet Troupe See June 21 for details. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “Tangled” & “The Jungle Book” See July 4 for details. Twilight Adventure Walk See July 5 for details.

Thursday, July 20 Covington Movie Club: “Storks” Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Hot summer day with nothing to do? Come in and enjoy a movie, popcorn and drink! $3 per movie, ages 6-12. The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus See June 22 for details. Summer Serendipity: Movie: “Trolls” See June 22 for details. Gamer’s Society See June 22 for details. Capital City Shape Notes Singing Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. These traditional singers perform from shape note hymn books published in Alabama, including “The Sacred Harp” and “Christian Harmony.” The daylong singing will be held in the Old Alabama Town Reception Center and is free and open to the public. The Singing is held annually on the third Thursday of July. www.oldalabamatown.com. 84th Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island. More than 3,000 anglers from at least 24 states will fish in the Gulf of Mexico for three days for more than $400,000 in cash and prizes across 30 categories. Sponsored by the Mobile Jaycees, the 2011 event was listed in Guinness World Records as the largest fishing tournament. The Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo is held the third full weekend of July each year. First Responder Appreciation Night All Police, Fire and EMS and thier families get FREE admission to the SportsPlex pool. Refreshments and door prizes! 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “Tangled” & “The Jungle Book” See July 4 for details.

Friday Night Splash! Enjoy music, a cookout, games and fun at the pool! 6:00-8:00 p.m. (334) 501-2957 • auburnalabama.org/pools. Alabama’s 2017 Back to School Tax Holiday This backto-school tax holiday offers bargains on clothing, computers, books, and school supplies. begins at 12:01 a.m. (CST) on Friday July 21, and ends at twelve midnight on Sunday July 23. Local sales and use tax may apply. Friday On The Green See June 23 for details. Back to School Ice Cream Social Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Cool off from the heat with ice cream sundaes you decorate, while meeting new kids right before school starts! $5 Ages 5-12. 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Young Writer’s Club See June 23 for details.

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84th Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo See July 20 for details. Wedding Extravaganza Columbus Trade Center. 12:30-4:30 p.m. With loads of vendors at The Columbus Trade and Convention Center, you’ll find everything you need to plan the wedding of your dreams! Fshion show and aisle upon aisle of exhibits by the area’s leading wedding professionals. From Entertainment to Fashions, Receptions to Honeymoons, you’ll find it at the Wedding Extravaganza! Admission $7. www.weddingsofgeorgia.com. Alabama’s 2017 Back to School Tax Holiday See July 21 for details.

Teen Writer’s Club See June 23 for details. Anime and Manga Art Club See June 23 for details. Remarkable Reptiles See July 7 for details.

Saturday, July 22 Youth Extravaganza 28 Samford Avenue, Opelika. 3:00-7:00 p.m. Free to the public. Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run Lake Martin. The event will begin at the Ridge Marina and will end at Kowaliga Restaurant near Kowaliga. 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. 256-212-1499. www.russellmarine.net. Admission charged. Barks & Brews Red Clay Brewing Company, Opelika. 3:00-5:00 p.m. The Lee County Humane Society joins Red Clay Brewing Company for the adoption event of the summer. Barks and Brews is an opportunity for you to sample Opelika’s finest local beer, socialize with the passionate people of Lee the County Humane society, and meet your best friend. www.facebook.com/leecountyhumanesociety. Wetumpka’s River and Blues Music & Arts Festival This is a great event for family fun with music, arts, kidzone, food. Free to all! 84th Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo See July 20 for details. Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park See June 24 for details.

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Legomania See June 24 for details.

84th Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo See July 20 for details.

Summer Sunset Music Series: Into the Further See July 1 for details.

Friday Night Splash Samford Pool, Auburn. Join the Aquatics Staff for

Alabama’s 2017 Back to School Tax Holiday See July 21 for details.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

USA Softball Doubleheader Exhibition Auburn University is set to host the USA Softball Women’s National Team for a pair of exhibitions, July 22 at Jane B. Moore Field. First pitch times slated for 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., respectively. Saturday morning camp from 9:30 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the Auburn softball complex. The camp includes a player meet-and-greet where fans can mingle with Team USA players. Tickets and information at usasoftballofalabama.com.

Monday, July 24 AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “Despicable Me.” See June 21 for details. Youth for Christ Golf Classic Auburn University Club. Join East Alabama Youth For Christ for the 32nd Annual Golf Classic featuring Steve Bartkowski and Will Herring. The classic will be held at the Auburn University Club. 334-501-5637. Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald’s Birthday Art Exhibit Montgomery. Celebrate Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald’s 117th Birthday! An art exhibition will be held as part of the birthday celebration. www.thefitzgeraldmuseum.org.

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O Grows Farmers Market See June 27 for details. Summer Swing Concert: The Fedoras See July 11 for details. Teen Float-N-Movie: “The Giver” Samford Pool. Ages 13 & Up. 8:15 p.m. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite inflatable from home, as none will be provided. Doors Open: 8:15 p.m. Movie Begins: 8:30 p.m. Doors Close: 8:45 p.m. (334) 5012957. auburnalabama.org. Literary Classics Club: “Fahrenheit 451” by Ray Bradbury See June 27 for details. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “The Wizard of Oz” & “Pete’s Dragon” See July 4 for details.

Wednesday, July 26 AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “Despicable Me.” See June 21 for details.

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August 1, 8, 15, 22. O Grows Farmers Market See June 27 for details.

Adventure Day Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Spend your afternoon on a scavenger hunt! $10, Ages 5-12. 1:00-4:00 p.m.

Chilton County Arts Festival Clanton. www.chiltoncountyartscouncil.com.

August 2. AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “The Peanuts Movie.” See June 21 for details.

Cheers on the Corner Taste of Downtown Auburn An inaugural taste of downtown Auburn from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the Cheers tent. Each of the stops along the way will provide you with a savory bite representative of the flavors of downtown Auburn. You will also receive a complimentary souvenir glass. Tickets may be purchased at participating stops or online at www. downtownauburnonline.com.

August 2. Acre Farmers Market Also August 9, 16, 23, 30. See June 21 for details.

Puppet Troupe See June 21 for details. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “The Wizard of Oz” & “Pete’s Dragon” See July 4 for details. Twilight Adventure Walk See July 5 for details. I Run Opelika Health Expo & 5k Run/Walk Lee County Courthouse Square. 7:00 a.m. Sponsored by SmoothSax Music and Cornerstone of EAMC. In conjunction with the Health Expo, we are holding a 5K Run/Walk. This event will take participants on a tour through our lovely Historic Downtown area. We look forward to having participants of all ages and fitness levels. The proceeds from this event are going to Cornerstone of East Alabama Medical Center. 334-7507672.

Thursday, July 27 Tactical Athlete Human Factors Summit Auburn Campus. The two-day summit is hosted by the Warrior Research Center, part of the Auburn University College of Education, School of Kinesiology. The summit consists of presentations, posters, and panel discussions about research in the field and new projects related to soldier training, injury prevention, medical treatment/ rehabilitation, equipment/vehicle impact, and more. 334-844-1941. The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus See June 22 for details. Summer Serendipity: Summer Celebration See June 22 for details. Gamer’s Society See June 22 for details. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “The Wizard of Oz” & “Pete’s Dragon” See July 4 for details.

Friday, July 28 Tactical Athlete Human Factors Summit See July 27 for details. Back to School Bash Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Come enjoy one last day of summer with food and fun! (Limited number of school supplies will be given away). Free and All ages welcome. 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m. Friday On The Green See June 23 for details. Young Writer’s Club See June 23 for details. Teen Writer’s Club See June 23 for details. Anime and Manga Art Club See June 23 for details. Remarkable Reptiles See July 7 for details.

Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park See June 24 for details. Young Eagles Day See June 24 for details. Legomania See June 24 for details. Run, Walk, and Roll 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run Woodruff Park, Columbus. A 1 Mile fun run and a 5k walk/run to raise awareness and funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities of West Georgia, Inc. Summer Sunset Music Series: Sons N Britches See July 1 for details.

Sunday, July 30 Back-to-School Pool Party Drake Pool, Auburn. 1:00-6:00 p.m. All-day games, music and fun at the pool! There will be special concessions for sale and back-to-school giveaways all day at the pool, from backpacks to notebooks and more. Please note: Drake Pool’s Back-to-School Pool Party coincides with the July Aqua-Basketball tournament. $2 per person or FREE with Splash Pass. (334) 501-2957. Alabama Dance Theatre presents Stars On the Riverfront Riverwalk Amp, Montgomery. 7:00 p.m. Local Food Vendors will be on site for each performance. Free Admission. www.visitingmontgomery.com.

Monday, July 31 Alabama Dance Theatre presents Stars On the Riverfront Riverwalk Amp, Montgomery. 7:00 p.m. Local Food Vendors will be on site for each performance. Free Admission. www.visitingmontgomery.com. AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “The Peanuts Movie.” See June 21 for details. Magical Monday Matinees See June 26 for details.

August August 1. Summer Swing Concert: Back to School Bash See July 11 for details.

August 5. Barks & Brews Red Clay Brewing Company, Opelika. 3:00-5:00 p.m. The Lee County Humane Society joins Red Clay Brewing Company for the adoption event of the summer. Barks and Brews is an opportunity for you to sample Opelika’s finest local beer, socialize with the passionate people of Lee the County Humane society, and meet your best friend. www.facebook.com/leecountyhumanesociety. August 5. 153rd Commemorative of the Battle of Mobile Bay Dauphin Island. The event highlights Fort Gaines integral role in the Battle of Mobile Bay. The cannon will be fired every forty-five minutes in honor of the soldiers that fought in this pivotal battle. Blacksmith demonstration will be on hand all day; demonstrations of military drills, training as well as the firing of the cannons, and much more. www.dauphinisland.org. August 5. Commemoration of the Battle of Mobile Bay & Siege of Fort Morgan A one day living history event commemorating the the events that happened at Mobile Bay August 5-23, 1864. The fort will come to life with drills and demonstrations of artillery by historical interpreters. www.fort-morgan. org. August 5. Barks & Brews Red Clay Brewing Company, Opelika. 3:00 - 5:00 p.m. The Lee County Humane Society joins Red Clay Brewing Company for the adoption event of the summer. Barks and Brews is an opportunity for you to sample Opelika’s finest local beer, socialize with the passionate people of Lee the County Humane society, and meet your best friend. www.facebook.com/leecountyhumanesociety. August 5. The Opelika Sportsplex Triathlon for Kids at the Opelika Sportsplex and Aquatics Center Open to kids ages 6 - 15. Swim/bike/run. Each participant will receive a t-shirt and medal. No assistance will be given to swimmers. Pre-registration is required. For fees, registration, and information, visit www. sportsplextriforkids.com. August 10. Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee Auburn Alumni Center, 317 South College Street. Sponsored by Lee County Literacy Coalition. Team sponsorships are now available. For more information, please contactStacie@leecountyliteracy.org. www.leecountyliteracy.org. August 17. Home Sweet Auburn Auburn University Greenspace. 4:006:00 p.m. Again this summer, the Auburn Chamber will partner with Auburn University to showcase member restaurants to incoming freshman and their families during Home Sweet Auburn. Questions? Contact Stephanie Calhoun at (334) 887-7011 or stephanie@ auburnchamber.com. August 20. Tri Chewacla Sprint Triathlon Chewacla State Park, Auburn. www.triauburnal.com; Race Distances: Swim: 500 meters, Bike: 12 miles,

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FamilyCalendar Run: 3.1 miles. 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place awards will be presented to the winners of each age group. Each participant will receive an event t-shirt, swim cap, and a packet filled with sponsor gifts and promotions. Every finisher will receive a finisher’s medal. August 4-27. Summer Flower Show Enjoy new varieties of standard southern garden flowers located at the rim of the Wetumpka meteorite crater. Open Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5:00 p.m. www.jasminehill.org.

Ongoing: Discovery Hikes Explore the preserve and learn something new each month about plants, wildlife and nature with a trained naturalist who will offer your family fun opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and exercise! Discovery Hikes are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. For families with children ages 5 to 12. Free admission. Donations welcomed. Cancelled in the event of rain. Forest Ecology Preserve & Nature Center is located at 2222 N. College Street, Auburn, and is just north of the AU Fisheries complex. 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. God and Country Sound, Light, and Water Show DeSoto Caverns Park, Childersburg. June 20 - July 5. Enjoy this patriotic show that tells of America’s courageous past. Show is shown on every caverns tour. www.desotocavernspark.com. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn. www.auburnalabama.org. XBAR Fitness For Youth For all fitness levels. Mondays 5:15 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. $65/6 weeks. Megan.Linge@gmail.com. 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.

Performances Alabama Shakespeare Festival Alabama Shakespeare Festival. www.asf.net Disney’s “Mary Poppins” Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Montgomery. July 6 23. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she teaches the family how to value each other again. Mary Poppins showcases some of the most memorable songs ever sung on the silver screen or stage including “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” “Jolly Holiday,” “A Spoonful of Sugar,” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!” Recommended ages four and up. www.asf.net

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

Disney’s “Newsies” Red Mountain Theatre, Birmingham. July 7 - 30. When a charismatic newsboy dreams of a better life from the hardships of the streets, he takes on a powerful and corrupt establishment in a David-versus-Goliath struggle. Seize the day with the classic songs from Disney’s film, along with some new tunes for the stage. This high-energy performance is one you don’t want to miss! www.redmountaintheatre.org. “The Dreamland Bus” Red Door Theatre, Union Springs. It is a charming, funny, deeply touching and life-affirming play about family and homecomings. Based upon the playwright’s family and his Southern up-bringing, the title reflects the words of his father, a Southern doctor, when the children were being put to bed – “it’s time to get on the dreamland bus.” July 27, 28, & 29 @ 7:30 with optional, pre-show, seated dinner and July 30 @ 2:30. (334) 7388687 or conecuhpeople@knology.net. “G2K Cinderella” Red Mountain Museum, Birmingham. July 14 - 16. The charm and elegance of Cinderella take the stage in this specially crafted fairytale. “G2K Cinderella” features all the beloved songs and familiar characters of the story in a condensed script for younger audiences. www.redmountaintheatre.org. “Hairspray! the Broadway Musical” Prattville. Presented by Way Off Broadway. Opens Thursday, July 13, at 7:30 p.m. and will run Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2:00 p.m., through July 29. Performances will be held at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 29. Tickets are $12 in advance and $14 at the door, and can be purchased online at cc.prattvilleal.gov, or by calling 334-595-0854. For more information contact the Special Events Office or visit wobt.prattvilleal.gov. “Peter Pan” The Cloverdale Playhouse, Montgomery. July 20 - 30. “Peter Pan” is the story of three siblings who follow Peter Pan and the fairy Tinker Bell into Neverland, where children never grow old. Captain Hook and his pirates, Tiger Lily and her tribe, mermaids, and a dozen other adventures await the children in this timeless tale of eternal youth. (334) 262-1530. “The Stinky Cheese Man” Children’s Theatre Series. Springer Opera House, Columbus, GA. July 7 - 9, 14 - 16, 21 - 23. Though the characters may be familiar, each of your favorite storybook fables is uproariously derailed in this adaptation of Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith’s quintessential children’s book of fractured fairy tales. Everything from “Chicken Little” to “The Gingerbread Man” gets a complete makeover. Fun music and witty narration accompany the likes of ineloquent giants, sassy barnyard animals, colossal cow pies, and enough stinky cheese to go around. www.springeroperahouse.org.

Support & Parenting Groups A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an all-inclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-728-1162 or email: momofpnk@gmail.com.

Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-705-8877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com.

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Auburn UMC Children’s Day Out Program Every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.–12 noon. $10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information. Auburn United Methodist Church.

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Auburn Mommies, a fun group of moms in the Auburn/Opelika area that meet weekly for playgroups and Mommy and Me walking twice a week. We also have a Mommies Night Out once a month. Http:// groups.yahoo.com/group/auburnmommiesinalabama/. Auburn Mommy and Me Big Dog Running Co, Auburn. 10–11 a.m. Social time, story time, music/movement, arts & crafts. Ages 9 months–3 years. Free! 334-209-2580. Auburn MOPS 1st Wednesday of each month, September-May. 9–11:30 a.m. Trinity United Methodist Church, Opelika. Meetings open to moms with preschool children ages 5 years and under. $5 per meeting; childcare $5 per child. $25 yearly membership dues. Weekly playdates, monthly moms night out, resources, and more. www.facebook.com/ AuburnOpelikaMOPS; AUMOPS@yahoo.com.

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Bible Study Fellowship Held at Parkway Baptist Church, Thursdays at 10 a.m., (334) 546-1386.

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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.

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Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register.

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

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FamilyCalendar awareness of food allergies in the state of Alabama. For more information, visit our website at www. foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334-8263082; 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. La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. @ Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, Airport Plaza, 323 Airport Road Suite E, Auburn. For more information call LLL of Auburn/Opelika, Leader, Josie Ettinger (h)334257-3950 or (c)334-740-8780. Lee County Department of Human Resources Now recruiting foster/adoptive families. To learn more about fostering and adoption please call our office at 334-737-1100. Please join us in this endeavor to help our foster children. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/Asian child).

The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that are waiting to adopt are welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net for more information. Miracle League To volunteer or for more information, www.miraclefield. org or eamiracleleague@gmail.com. MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids. New website is www.auburnmoms.com. MOPS of Auburn We meet the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at Auburn United Methodist Church from 9:30 - 11:30. Childcare is provided, although we ask that you make reservations if possible. Meetings are open to mothers with children ages 5 and under. www.facebook.com/ mopsofauburn mopsofauburn@gmail.com. Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974. Parent Educational Workshop - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy. 2nd Tuesday of each month, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika. Parent Support Group - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy meets the 1st Monday (unless national holiday), 9:00-11:00 a.m.

and the next evening (Tuesday) from 6-7:30 p.m. Visit www.leecountyautism.com for complete information. Email info@leecountyautism.com or call 334-740-0716. Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama offers 2nd Saturdays, group classes, and more. Contact Penny Messer at 334-444-6827. Email smoea@bellsouth.net. Website www.smoea.vpweb.com or find us on facebook. Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@ insideyfc.com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com. Therapeutic Foster Care Program Foster a Child’s Future Today - Become a Therapeutic Foster Parent! Certification classes are free. Please call Joanna Fisher Champagne at Lee County Youth Development Center’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program. (334) 749-2996, Ext. 311 - You can make an eternal difference in a child’s life! Trinity UMC (Opelika) Mom’s Morning Out Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45–12. $15 per child, $5 each additional. Trinity United Methodist Church.

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Cars 3 MPAA Rating: G Overall: AViolence: B Sexual Content: AProfanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated Cars 3 G. Looking in the mirror and seeing a few gray hairs is never easy. For a racing car who’s used to being the leader of the pack, getting old takes on a whole new meaning. It’s not that Lightening McQueen (voice of Owen Wilson) is slowing down. The problem is the young new cars are speeding up. One of those hotshots, Jackson Storm (voice of Armie Hammer), has a body built on technology and a training facility that gives the racer a chance to practice and refine every possible scenario. On the day when Storm zips past McQueen to greet the checkered flag, our hero suddenly feels his age. Mustering every last horsepower to overtake his new competitor doesn’t return the usual glorious outcome. Instead the effort leaves him bruised, broken and beaten on the side of the track. The longtime ruler of the oval is a wreck -- inside and out. At first, he would rather sit in Radiator Springs with the old gang. But Mater (voice of Larry the Cable Guy) and Sally (voice of Bonnie Hunt) are reluctant to watch their friend stall in a state of disrepair. With the best intentions, they encourage him to accept an offer from his longtime sponsor to come and hone his racing skills using the same new technologies offered to the young upstarts. Excited at the notion of getting back on track he accepts the challenge to work with Cruz Ramirez (voice of Cristela Alonzo), a bright yellow car who will be his new trainer. Cars 3 is an insightful look at how the finish line that we thought we were headed toward can sometimes change. The elder McQueen and young Ramirez offer differing perspectives based on their life experience. This dual protagonist design is typical of Pixar’s keen ability to present storylines that cross generations. With a G-rating, there is very little to discourage parents from sharing this movie with their children. McQueen’s crash and his accidental entry into a demolition derby are two moments when the youngest of children may be frightened. Otherwise kids and adults will enjoy plot elements that teach of the importance of having a positive outlook while continuing to move forward and accepting new challenges, even if the road doesn’t lead to where we originally thought we were going. Coming from an animation company that is also used to leading the pack, Cars 3 demonstrates Pixar can still deliver a high-octane experience that offers a potent mix of engaging entertainment and meaningful messages.

The First Epic Movie MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: BSexual Content: B+ Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Captain Underpants: The First Epic Movie PG for mild rude humor throughout. Have you ever noticed how many superheroes look like they are dressed in underwear? Well, I suspect the notion crossed the mind of Dav Pilkey, author of the Captain Underpants book series. And that may be why this animation, based on his work, features a couple of aspiring comic book creators who point to these costume choices as the inspiration for their title character. George and Herold (voices of Kevin Hart and Thomas Middleditch) are elementary-aged kids who have been friends since kindergarten. Sharing the same sense of humor, the pals combine their separate talents for writing and art, to make hand-drawn adventure stories featuring a bald action figure in tighty-whities. The pair also likes to play pranks on their teachers as a way to cheer up their fellow students at their penitentiary-like school. Their mischief has made them regular visitors to the office of Principal Krupp (voice of Ed Helms). Fed-up, the administrator threatens to put the hooligans in separate classrooms. To prevent him for carrying out the threat, George attempts to hypnotize him -- and it works. With a mere suggestion, Principal Krupp believes he is Captain Underpants, and the boys are able to take control of his actions. Or so they think. It turns out to be far harder to keep a leash on the eager-but-super-powerless hero. And George and Herold’s struggles to prevent the caped crusader from hurting himself, or those who get in his way, intensify when a new teacher (voice of Nick Kroll) joins the staff. Calling himself Professor P., it quickly becomes obvious the disgruntled, former scientist has evil designs for his pupils. As is to be expected from the film’s title, this script is full, full, full of potty humor. Perhaps more of a surprise will be the violence that erupts between the boys and the vengeful Professor. While all the depictions are too ridiculous to be taken seriously, they may still be a bit frightening for young viewers. Yet despite the fixation on toilets and a blatant disrespect for authority figures, the story does allow its characters to reconsider their motives, feel remorse for their mockery, and redeem their actions. While these positive moments won’t flush away all the shenanigans, they will likely provide enough charm to amuse older children and tweens.

What Parents need to know...

Violence: This animation features an evil teacher who has the goal of using a ray gun to deactivate the portion of a child’s brain that is responsible for humor. The teacher also uses another ray gun to make things very small or very large. The teacher threatens students with these weapons at the elementary school. These scenarios may be frightening for young children. A principal is played as very stern and harsh, however never abusive. Sexual Content: There are frequent discussions of scatological and mildly crude bodily functions in a comic context, with little detail. Profanity: Name calling is used along with common child terms to describe bodily functions. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted.

What Parents need to know...

Violence: Depictions of car races includes frequent accidents and crashes. Characters unwittingly enter a demolition derby, and are not permitted to back out of the race. Some racers have malicious intents for their fellow competitors. Bullying and belittling occur. Main characters face mildly perilous situations. Racial and gender prejudice is mentioned. Sexual Content: Mild sexual innuendo is included. Profanity: Some good-natured and spiteful name-calling is heard. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters gather to talk in a bar setting. Running moonshine is mentioned. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2017

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