Auburn Opelika Parents July 2014 by KeepSharing

July2014 10

Volume 5 Number 5

Columns

26 22

Publisher’s Note Kendra Sumner

Living With Children John Rosemond

Stop the Mom Bullying

Kids Health

Find tips for safe swimming all summer long, including preventing swimmer’s ear.

Learn how to cope with criticism and avoid offering opinions when you can.

Kids Health Watch sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Dave Says

Dave Ramsey

A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

Simple Celebrations Your child’s birthday party doesn’t have to be a strain on the budget or your sanity.

Birthday Party Guide Our local listing of all things “BIRTHDAY” will help you plan their special day in a snap!

The FlyLady Marla Cilley

Parenting on the Plains Polly Dunn, Ph.D.

On The Cover Woods (17) and Willow Grace (3) Parrish are the children of Greg and Stephanie Parrish of Auburn. Woods will be a senior at AHS and enjoys playing baseball, water sports at the lake and being with friends. Willow Grace likes attending Hardy’s Childcare Center, Variations Dance and playing dress up. Both enjoy youth activities at the Auburn Church of Christ and attending sporting events at Auburn University.

Departments 6

Bits and Pieces 12

School Bits 38

Family Calendar 44

Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Publisher’sNote Happy Birthday, America! July 4th is my favorite holiday of the entire year. There are no long lists of gifts to buy, no turkeys to cook or too much candy in a basket that will only create a sugar high and cavities. Just good old AllAmerican fun with family and friends gathered around a backyard BBQ, a refreshing dip in the lake and fireworks lighting up the southern night sky! This year’s 238th birthday of the U.S.A. will be filled with fun, fellowship and a reflection of our freedoms. Whether you are staying close to home or headed out of town for a vacation, check out some of the best celebrations that your destination has to offer this 4th of July. Locally, Auburn and Opelika have planned two days of picnics, live entertainment and firework shows. Lake Martin hosts a boat parade near Children’s Harbor, musical concert at The Amp and closes the night with a bang of bright colors over the water. Headed to the beach? Gulf Shores sings happy birthday to America with a firework display featuring shell-shaped bursts of light set to patriotic themed music! Need a bit of history and culture to go along with your show? The Vulcan in Birmingham and Stone Mountain in Atlanta pair their celebration with the backdrop of their city’s history and heritage. No matter the plans, the most exciting aspect is that people everywhere are all celebrating together the love of our country. Birthdays, whether for our country or a loved one, mark a milestone worth celebrating, but planning the event can become overwhelming at times. Having resources to go to and new ideas to mix with your own creativity helps alleviate some of the party planning stress. Our July issue is dedicated to birthday party planning and features unique ideas, plus a listing of local businesses to make this year’s birthday one to remember. For me, I have trouble coming up with the perfect theme. With four kids, I have given 31 parties to date! I can assure you, we have done it all. From sleepovers to safaris and princesses to pirates, we have dressed up, hunted treasure, found lions and tigers and stayed up all night painting toes and watching movies. All of this in the name of getting another year older! You can imagine that I have run out of ideas. However, I enjoyed some of the fresh tips given in this month’s article, Simple Celebrations from A to Z: 26 Themes for Your Child’s Next Birthday. I can’t wait to plan the Abracadabra Magic theme and we will have to try a Zip Line event, too! For the perfect venue, entertainment, gifts and decorations, our 2014 Birthday Party Guide has you covered. From one parent to another, light up the sky this 4th of July and make another wish at your next party. Surround yourself with good friends and family and have a great time!

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

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 deanne@auburnopelikaparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Marla Cilley Polly Dunn, Ph.D. Sandra Gordon Heather Lee Leap Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Ellen Royal, M.D. Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

President Jason Watson Director of Sales Justin Sumner justin@auburnopelikaparents.com (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 2014 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

Potty Training Advice Q: We began toilet training our daughter when she was 21 months old. Within 10 days, she was consistently using the toilet for Number One. She now wears underwear 24/7 because she doesn’t even wet her bed. The problem is that she’s now 23 months old and has had only four successful BMs on the toilet. She has a BM when she’s still in bed in the morning or sometime during her nap. Regardless, her BMs are impossible to anticipate. When I discover her accident, I simply remind her she needs to go on the toilet. I haven’t done anything more assertive because I haven’t wanted to create a power struggle. I read your toilet training book and know about the use of a gate. Do you think I should go in that direction? A: I should explain to the reader that the “gate” refers to a child-proof gate that is used to confine a child in the bathroom or whatever room the parents have put the potty. I recommend that a gate be used in conjunction with a “potty bell”—a simple kitchen timer that’s set to go off at regular intervals in anticipa-

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

tion of the child’s need to use the potty. When the bell goes off, the parents simply remind the child that it’s time to use the potty. If the child is resistant, then I sometimes but not always recommend that the parents use a gate. An important caveat: If the child in question perceives that the gate is being used punitively, then the child’s resistance is likely to increase, along with tantrums. For that reason, if a gate is used, then the potty should be located in a non-threatening room, like the child’s play room. If the child gets used to being confined to one fairly interesting room from the time he begins moving around on his own, and that’s the room in which the potty is placed (there’s no requirement, after all, that a toddler has to “go” in the bathroom), the child should cooperate readily in training and it shouldn’t take more than a few weeks. Parental anxiety over toilet training— ubiquitous these days—is another killer. If a child senses that his parents are overly eager for him to use the toilet, he’s likely to put up a fight. The overly eager parent quickly turns into a micro-

manager, and micromanagement in any context, with any age human, provokes push-back. So the keys to relatively quick toilet training are a relaxed but authoritative approach, planning, and structure. You obviously did a good job from the outset. If you hadn’t, your daughter wouldn’t have had such quick success. She’s not afraid of sitting on the potty—again, obviously—so my best guess is that the “poop” thing is just going to take her a little more time. I don’t get the impression that she’s resistant; she’s just not fully awake when she has to have a BM. In effect, she’s still on her infant BM schedule. Within a month or so she will probably transition rather naturally to having her BM at the same time every day, during her waking hours. At that point, you’ll be able to use the bell as a reminder. As for the gate, in this case I don’t think it’s going to be necessary. In the meantime, just keep up your patient, positive approach. It’s served both of you well so far. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Summer Pool Fun

Samford Pool is open for the season! Daily admission to pools is $2/person and children 1 & under are free. A season Splash Pass is available for purchase at the Harris Center, 425 Perry St, weekdays from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Visit www.auburnalabama. org/pools for hours and Splash Pass information. Pictured, Dakota and Lily enjoy the first day of summer hours at Samford Pool on Saturday, May 24.

SunFest 2014

Join the Alexander City and Lake Martin community for the annual SunFest, July 1926. This year’s event will feature Diamond Rio in concert, Battle of the Bands and Winn Dixie Firework Show! Other family fun events include Car Show, Sun Festival pageant, vendors and the Glow Run. www.alexandercity.org/sunfest.

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Family Fun Nights at Eastdale Mall

Eastdale Mall is hosting Family Fun Nights throughout the summer. Upcoming dates are June 21, 28, July 12, 19, 26 and August 2. This event will feature a magic show, inflatables by the SpaceWalker, a DJ spinning all the favorite family friendly tunes, ice skating, a photo booth and much more! Rex from y102 will also be joining in on the fun by hosting LIVE from inside the mall. The Family Fun Night program will be from 5 p.m. until 7 p.m. and each week free activities and entertainment will be featured inside the Centre Court. There will also be special discounts including free carousel rides and ice skating for children 10 and under. For more information visit eastdale-mall.com.

Sportsplex Tri for Kids 2014

The 2nd Annual Sportsplex Tri for Kids & Small Fry Tri will be held on August 2nd! The Small Fry Tri: Open to children ages 2-5. Children will run, bike (can bring their own bike, tricycle or scooter with helmet) and then run to the finish through the splash park! Parents and siblings are encouraged to help the children complete the course. This is not a competitive event as all children will receive a t-shirt and medal. The Tri For Kid: Open to ages 6-15 years with the following brackets: ages 6-8 50y swim/2 mile bike/500 yard run; ages 9-11 100y swim/4 mile bike/1 mile run; ages 1215 150y swim/6 mile bike/2 mile run. To register or for more information, sportsplextriforkids@gmail.com or find us on Facebook! Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

Opelika Film Night: July 17

Join Opelika Mainstreet for a night of family fun on the Depot Lawn for activities and a movie, “Mary Poppins”. Bring chairs and blankets to the Train Depot lawn on South Railroad Avenue, Opelika. The fun begins at 6 p.m. and the movie starts at sunset. www.opelika.org.

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Fireworks for the Fourth!

Opelika Parks and Recreation presents the annual Freedom Celebration, July 3rd, at the Opelika High School Track. Gates open at 6:30 p.m. for food, fun and entertainment with fireworks beginning after dark. This night of fun and excitement includes giant inflatable games, activities for the kids, musical entertainment by Route 66, skydivers, food and the largest fireworks display in the area. Bring the whole family, a lawn chair or blanket and relax on the grass! www.opelika.com/opr.

City of Auburn's Annual 4th of July Celebration Sponsored by Briggs & Stratton

Celebrate Independence Day with the entire Auburn Community, Auburn Parks and Recreation, and Briggs and Stratton on the evening of Thursday, July 4. Enjoy great food, LIVE music from The Answer, free goodies courtesy of Briggs and Stratton, and THE best fireworks display in the entire area! This FREE celebration will be held behind the home side of Duck Samford Football Stadium. Grab your picnic basket, blanket, and family and join us for a fabulous night of entertainment and a chance to show your patriotic spirit! Gates open at 6:00 p.m. Purchase an all American picnic style dinner of barbecue with all of the fixings, enjoy tasty ice cream treats, and enjoy FREE balloon animals for the kids! Live music begins at 7 p.m., followed by fireworks at 9:00 p.m. REMINDER: The parking lot off of Airport Road between the Bo Cavin fields and the new Duck Samford Fields will be closed to the public during the event to accommodate our fireworks shoot site. The parking lot off East University Drive (across from McAlister’s) will be OPEN to the public for parking. In case of rain, join us for the fireworks only on Friday, July 5 at 9 p.m. For more information, visit www.auburnalabama.org/parks

5th Annual Farewell Summer Block Party & Outdoor Movie

Friday, August 1, and free to all! Enjoy live music, purchase food from sponsor Chick-Fil-A Magnolia, sign up for door prizes, pick up coupons and sales tax holiday specials, and enjoy an outdoor, family film, “The Blind Side”. Gates open at 6 p.m. 501-2930.

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Briggs and Stratton 4th of July Sponsorship Check Presentation

Back to School Bash 2014

Come enjoy one last day of summer with food and fun, July 25, 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 1 p.m. at the Covington Center, Opelika! (Limited number of school supplies will be given away). Free for all ages!

Briggs and Stratton presented the City of Auburn with a $10,000 check at the Tuesday, May 20 City Council meeting in sponsorship of the Cityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Fourth of July Celebration. The City of Auburn is grateful to Briggs and Stratton for providing the citizens of Auburn with an outstanding fireworks display and Fourth of July Celebration for over a decade. Pictured L - R: Cisco King, Human Resources Manager for the Auburn Briggs and Stratton plant, presents Mayor Bill Ham, Jr. with a $10,000 check in support of Auburn's Annual Fourth of July Celebration scheduled for Friday, July 4 Festivities begin at 6 p.m. behind the home side of Duck Samford Stadium, followed by live music at 7 p.m., and a fireworks show, made possible by Briggs and Stratton's donation, at 9 p.m. Admission is FREE to the public.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

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22nd Annual Fishing Rodeo

The 22nd Annual Fishing Rodeo, sponsored by Evans Realty, was held Saturday, May 17 at the lake at Auburn Technology Park South. We were excited to host 177 children and their families for a morning of fishing and fun! Biggest Fish Caught – Kyler Mitchell won the prize for Biggest Fish Caught. In addition to reeling in the biggest catch of the day, Kyler won a tackle bag stocked with supplies for his next fishing trip. Smallest Fish Caught – Omar Holloway claimed the prize for the Smallest Fish Caught. Omar took home a tackle bag stocked with hooks, lures, and bait to help reel in the big catch next year.

Lee County Humane Society Summer of Second Chances Community Adoption Challenge

Lee County Humane Society (LCHS) is launching the Summer of Second Chances, and challenges the community to make adoption their option when considering a new furry family member. The adoption challenge will run June 1 – Sept. 30, 2014. In 2013, during the months of June through September, 369 companion animals were adopted from LCHS. This year, LCHS wants to challenge the community to adopt 500 companion animals during these same months. Follow LCHS on Facebook and become a LCHS Adoption Option supporter to like, share and send to friends, neighbors and colleagues our Summer of Second Chances featured pet. Summer of Second Chances is partnering with several community businesses to host adoption meet and greets throughout the summer. Adoptions include all vaccinations and spaying or neutering. Lee County Humane Society is open for adoption Wednesday - Thursday 12-7 p.m., and Friday - Sunday 12-5 p.m. The LCHS Shelter is located at 1140 Ware Drive, Auburn, Ala., 36832. Learn more online at www.leecountyhumane.org.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Healthy Swimming Swimming is a great way to get exercise. It keeps you cool in the hot months, has a low incidence of injury and is fun. With summer in full swing, I want to review some safety aspects of being around the water for kids and adults so everyone can enjoy swimming and hopefully continue a healthy lifestyle.

Safety

First, never swim alone. This goes without saying for younger children, but even teens and adults need a swim buddy. Supervision by a lifeguard is ideal. Also remember to supervise young children when they are not supposed to be in the water. All pools should be enclosed by a fence on four sides to prevent young children from getting in the water accidently. Second, open water swimming (swimming at the beach, lake or other natural body of water) is really fun, but it is smart to be careful of water currents, heavy surf and submerged objects in the water. Also, wear a lifejacket in the ocean or lake. Other flotation devices may suffice for the pool, but open water swimming requires a coast guard approved personal flotation device (life jacket). Third never swim or boat while drinking alcohol. Alcohol affects balance, coordination and judgment. These affects are heightened by exposure to the sun and heat. This un-

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

fortunately is a deadly combination for many adults and teens. Finally, for persons with seizure disorder, always take special precautions when near and in the water. Again, a swimming partner and lifejacket is key to prevent drowning.

Clean water

Another health issue for pools and open water is water quality. By checking chlorine levels at home pools and checking pool inspection scores at public pools, you can know that the water is safe. The CDC‘s website lists these six steps to prevent water illness. 1) Don’t swim when you have diarrhea. 2) Don’t swallow pool water. 3) Practice good hygiene- shower with soap before swimming and wash hands after using the bathroom. 4) Parents should have kids take frequent bathroom breaks. Urinating in the pool will lower chlorine levels and therefore make it less effective. 5) Change diapers in a bathroom, not poolside. and wash hands after. 6) Wash children with soap before swimming. With these steps the goal is to avoid getting potentially infected fecal material into

the water and to keep the water clean for all swimmers.

Prevention

Hot tub folliculitis is a rash resulting from exposure to bacteria in the water of hot tubs. Checking the chlorine level in spas and hot tubs is the best way to prevent this infection. Also, entrapment can occur when children use hot tubs unattended. They can be held underwater by the strong intake valve’s suction. Be aware of this danger and know where the emergency shut off is located. The CDC recommends that children under five years be excluded from hot tubs. Swimmer’s ear is another common problem connected to swimming. This is an ear canal infection that causes a painful and swollen ear. Swimmers ear or otitis externa needs to be treated with prescription ear drops. To prevent swimmer’s ear, make sure that swimmers clear water from their ears and use a few drops of alcohol in the ears after swimming. Dr. Ellen Royal attended the University of South Alabama College of Medicine for her medical degree and graduated in 1994. She returned to Alabama the summer of 1998 to join the pediatric practice of Dr. Richard M. Freeman. Dr. Royal is a member of the Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is board certified in Pediatrics. Dr. Royal is married to Dr. Kevin Royal who practices Internal Medicine in Opelika and they have three children.

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Autauga Ogletree Pick Elementary Explore Day County Schools On April 23rd, Presents Pick Elementary School held their Award for first Annual Pick Compassion, Explore Day. The 5th graders rotated Respect, and to six different stations that focused Service on math and science. The AMSTI staff presented information on volume, density, and problem solving.

Miriam Rodriquez was named the 2014 Kaylee Marie Allison Award recipient at Ogletree Elementary. This award is presented to the student in recognition of the student's compassion, respect and selfless service to their peers, teachers and school officials. Congratulations Miriam!

Wacoochee Elementary’s Accelerated Reader Highest Achiever

At Wacoochee Elementary sixth grader Christopher Morrison in Mrs. Rowan’s class, earned the most Accelerated Reader points for the 2013-14 school year in grades 4th - 6th. He received a special plaque honoring his achievement. Way to go Christopher and congratulations!

Wrights Mill Road 5th Graders Raise Money for Humane Society

5th graders at Wrights Mill Road elementary painted and sold canvas paintings of animals to raise money for the Lee County Humane Society. They presented a check for $1,627, in honor of Mrs. Tremaine as a retirement gift.

New AEEC Principal Named

Auburn City Schools has named Dr. Shelley Aistrup the new principal of Auburn Early Education Center. Dr. Aistrup is coming to ACS from Kansas, and has been in education for more than three decades. She has 20 years of teaching and administration under her belt, having taught in Virginia, Indiana, and Kansas.

Auburn High School Cheerleaders Host Cheer Camp The gym was packed with 305 little girls, all pepped up and ready for cheer camp 2014! They began the day with dancing and warming up in the new gym! This event has been happening for more than a decade and it is the main fundraiser for all of Auburn High School cheerleaders’ uniforms, travel and other mini-camps. Go Tigers!

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

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Auburn Jr. High Students Explore Medieval Times

Ms. Carpenter’s 5th block history class and Mrs. Hall’s class came together for a Medieval Feast recently. Mr. Wine and Mrs. Kenemer also joined the event as the king and queen. The students had been learning about the Middle Ages, including the crusades, feudalism, and the social lives of those living in the time period. To prepare for the feast, the students created costumes and entertainment. Our entertainment included bards giving thrilling tales, a comical jester act, and an action-packed jousting tournament. We had wonderful families donate food and supplies and Publix donated a big ham for the feast!

Lee-Scott to Break Ground on New Academic, Athletic Facilities

The Board of Trustees at Lee-Scott Academy recently voted to expand the school’s physical infrastructure by approving four building projects that are expected to be completed in the next two years. Lee-Scott will break ground on a running track this summer, followed by classroom additions to both the elementary school and secondary school buildings in the fall. Next summer, the school will renovate and expand locker room space and add a large classroom for physical education. The board also committed to building a performing arts center at a future date when funding becomes available. “We recently completed a thorough strategic planning process that helped us address today’s challenges and plan for our future,” said Headmaster Don Roberts. “Although our campus is already very attractive, these new projects will make us even more competitive both academically and athletically.” Lee-Scott’s track will serve two purposes. In addition to providing a facility for team practice and competition, it will also serve as a safe place for students to run and exercise during physical education classes. It is scheduled to be completed this fall. The classroom expansion will begin during the 2014-15 school year. Both the elementary school and secondary school buildings will add four classrooms for instruction. “Although we have been able to keep our student-to-teacher ratio low, we have needed additional space for instruction because of our growth,” Roberts said. Lee-Scott’s enrollment has grown each of the last 3 years to a record-high of 709 this year. Following the 2014-15 school year, Lee-Scott will greatly expand its locker rooms, weight room and coaches’ offices, a project that should take about a year. “These projects will not only enhance the look of our school, but give us more flexibility as we educate children in the 21st century,” said Roberts. “It’s an exciting time for Lee-Scott Academy.”

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Autauga County Schools

Mets Win Opelika Dixie Youth Pee Wee National Championship

Congratulations to the 2014 Opelika Dixie Youth Pee Wee National Champions, the Mets. Mets coaches are Joel White, Robbie Henderson, Kevin Cummings, and Abraham White.

Auburn High School Baseball Hosts Summer Camp

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Local students, age 7-12, sharpened their baseball skills under the direction and coaching of the Auburn High School Tiger Baseball team and coaches. It was a great way to start summer!

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Auburn City Schools BOE Approves Hire of Principal for Auburn High School

At a called meeting of the Auburn City Board of Education on May 6, the superintendent recommended, and the Board of Education approved, the transfer of Dr. Shannon Pignato, principal of Auburn Junior High School to principal of Auburn High School. This followed the retirement of the current principal, Mr. Rick Rainer. Dr. Pignato brings expertise in planning and implementing instructional and extracurricular programs for secondary students. She has high expectations for the faculty and students. Auburn Junior High School has flourished with her leadership. The superintendent has begun the process to recruit the best possible educator to be the principal at Auburn Junior High.

Family Fun Day Held at the Ecology Preserve

The Forest Ecology Preserve and the City of Auburn hosted Family Fun Day at the Preserve from 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. on Saturday, June 7. The event featured an interactive show by DR Magic, music by Spicer’s Garage Band, live animal encounters, a photo shoot with JRogers Photography, and children’s activities and face painting at the nature playground. Staff naturalists also lead discovery hikes with fun facts about the plants and wildlife at the Preserve. Family Fun Day was held in conjunction with National Trails Day, the country’s largest celebration of trails – sponsored by the American Hiking Association. Family Fun Day was made possible by the Auburn-Opelika Tourism Bureau, Chick-fil-A Magnolia Avenue, Earth Fare, and Kona Ice. Pictured, Noah Waites (age 7) cozies up with Lily, the Ball Python, at Family Fun Day at the Forest Ecology Preserve.

Make Your Move Dance Celebrates 20 Years!

The MYM Dynasty competition team smiles before the start of Make Your Move’s 20th anniversary concert June 1.

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Autauga County Schools Congratulations to the AJHS Jazz

Preschool Has Groundbreaking for Garden

The garden has been planted! On May 6, Milestones Learning Center had the ground breaking for their preschool garden. The purpose of the garden is to encourage the children to try healthy foods and learn about the growing process. Milestones Learning Center has been a partner in Michelle O'bama's "Let's Move!" program that helps children make healthy lifestyle choices. Many studies show that when children take an active role in the growing of food products they are more likely to try them in their diet. Congratulations to the students at Milestones Learning Center on creating such a beautiful garden.

Ensemble for 2014-2015

Flute: Veronica Neeley; Alto Saxophone: Finn Downes, Danny Kim, Addison Meeks, Taeson Moon; Tenor Saxophone: Ethan Jordan, Noel Lange; Baritone Saxophone: Hayley Holt; Clarinet: Emma Cotton, Annabella Rohrbaugh; Trumpet: Peter Abraham, Jun Jung, Hunter Lazenby, Samantha Mendoza, Allison Timm; Trombone/Baritone: Will Anderson, Joseph Burch, Julia Lawrence; Piano: Isaac Hayes, Harmon Herring, Arden Torres; Drums: Benny Koo, Reid Meinert, Ben Olive; Vibraphone: Precious Roberts-Miller; Guitar: Meredith Avera.

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Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

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Athletic Director Clay McCall Named Athletic Director of the Year

Auburn High athletic director Clay McCall was named the 2014 Athletic Director of the Year by the Alabama High School Athletic Directors and Coaches Association. McCall, who has been in charge of Auburn's athletic programs since 2009, will be recognized by the AHSADCA at the Coaches Championship Awards Banquet in Montgomery on July 25. Congratulations, Coach!

Wacoochee Boys Graduate on Honor Roll

Sixth grade graduation was held at Wacoochee Elementary School on Monday, May 19. Mrs. Hudsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class had eight boys that graduated on the honor roll: (L-R) Tyler Broadhurst, Nate Goss, Elijah Bowman, Jermichael Morgan, Brian Plott, Ashton Silvestri, Christopher Parker, and Brandon Martin. Congratulations to these honor graduates!

Incoming 6th Graders Attend Camp Drake

Parents and their students attended a day of orientation at J.F. Drake Middle School. Students toured the school, meet staff and teachers, purchased yearbooks, t-shirts, and introduced to their new year as middle schoolers. Pictured is the Pumas Team.

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AutaugaBeulah County Schools High School Receives Donation from Dollar General

On Friday, May 16th, representatives from the Beulah community Dollar General store presented Beulah High School with a $2,000 donation. The Dollar General store manager Cyndi Johnson and District manager Gene Robertson presented the check to school officials to support literacy initiatives. Beulah High School is home to 593 students in grades 7-12. The school is in the second year of a school-wide content literacy initiative. Additionally, this marks the fifth consecutive year Beulah’s language arts department has initiated its mandatory summer reading program to reduce “summer slide” for returning students. Donated funds will be used to support both of these programs. Pictured from left to right are: Beulah High School Administrative Assistant Casey Chambley, Dollar General Store manager Cyndi Johnson, Beulah High School Principal Joey Biddle, Dollar General Distict Manager Gene Robertson, and BHS Assistant Principal David Owen.

Auburn High School Ranked #6 in Alabama

U.S. News and World Report recently released a list of “Best High Schools,” with Auburn High School ranked #6 out of 360 Alabama High Schools. Criteria examined included the teacher/student ratio, college readiness and math and reading proficiency. Nationally, Auburn High School received a “Silver Medal,” and was ranked #833 out of the 19,411 schools examined. The U.S. News ranking follows other recent recognitions of Auburn City Schools including a 2013 Newsweek list, which ranked Auburn High School at #922 on a list of 2,000 high schools. The U.S. News ranking follows other recent recognitions of Auburn City Schools including a 2013 Newsweek list, which ranked Auburn High School at #922 on a list of 2,000 high schools.

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Ladybug Day at Milestones

Milestones Learning Center hosted its first annual Ladybug Day June 5. The students dressed in red and black and learned all about the life of a ladybug. Later that day each class went out to the MLC garden and released 5500 ladybugs! "There were ladybugs everywhere!" stated Lee Sides, MLC Director, "The children were simply thrilled." The ladybugs are part of MLC's garden program that gives the students hands-on opportunities to learn about food and healthy choices

Dragonflies’ First Swim Meet a Success

The City of Auburn Parks and Recreation’s Dragonflies Swim Team have practiced and were looking forward to their season. Congrats on a great first swim meet!

Softball Camp at Auburn High School

This year’s AHS's softball camp was a HIT! The camp was held at Auburn Softball Complex and hosted around 40, 7-12 year olds girls from Auburn and other surrounding areas. All proceeds from the camp go back into the Auburn High School Softball program.

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Brewers 2014 AAA Champions Congratulations to the Brewers for their 2014 win!

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Auburn Junior High School Names New Principal

Ross Reed, who has worked in education for the past 20 years, has been named the new principal of Auburn Junior High School. Mr. Reed joined the Auburn City School System in 2006 initially assuming the responsibilities of AHS running backs coach, head wrestling coach, and he taught economics and U.S. History. He then took on the job of being AHS assistant principal in 2009.

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Auburn High School Aquaculture Science Students Participate in FFA Career Development Event

Auburn High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Stan Arington, aquaculture science teacher, and some of his students participated in the Future Farmers of America Aquaculture Career Development event that was held at the Auburn University E.W. Shell Fisheries Research Station on June 3. 19

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Autauga County Trinity Schools Christian School Students

Advance to All-State Honor Band

TCS band members did exceptionally well this year in various musical competitions. Trinity band members competed against other musicians from Auburn, Montgomery, and Phoenix City, and 13 of our talented musicians had the privilege of joining the District Honor Band. The top musicians of each instrument section then advanced to the Alabama All-State Honor Band. Trinity Students Kayla Dean, Wyatt Dean, Josh Hartsell, Jacob Babbitt, Michael Key, and AJ Torbert had this privilege due to their extraordinary talent. Students Josh Hartsell and Jacob Babbitt also participated in a solo competition at state level. The performance of these students truly shows the aptitude of Trinity's music department.

Opelika City Schools Honors Retirees

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The Opelika City Schools hosted a Retirement Tea on May 27 at Jeter Primary School to honor retiring staff members. Each retiree was presented with a gift from the OCS Board of Education. Pictured are: front row (l-r): Phoebe Branch, Debbie Karcher, Pat Randall, Catherine Godfrey, Henry Avery and Cindy Mirarchi. Back row (l-r): Teresa Gorham, Charles Hannah, Barbara Mitchell, Priscilla Strickland, Stanley Campbell, Deborah Harwell, Denise Pritchard and John Wilson. Not pictured: Cynthia Black, Cynthia Cannon, Don Jones, Mae Moore and William Walker.

Wrights Mill Road Holds Flash Mob for Retirement Celebration

Wrights Mill Road 5th grader Mari Miles D. and 3rd grader Lauren B. hold up a big “LT” card for Lynda Tremaine during the surprise flash mob for her retirement celebration.

Please send your school news to: kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com.

Retirement Party Held for Auburn City Schools Employees Auburn City School’s Central Office Crew threw a going away, retirement party for ACS employees Jenifer Lovvorn and Elizabeth Mullis (pictured center).

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

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Q. My current employer offers a regular 401(k) and a Roth 401(k). I’ve got several years before I retire, so which one should I choose?

A. Take the Roth!

If you put your money into a Roth 401(k), and by retirement age there’s $1 million in there, that money is yours tax-free. By comparison, if it’s in a regular 401(k), you’ll pay taxes on that $1 million, which will come out to about $300,000—maybe $400,000 at the rate things are going now. You’ll lose 30 to 40 percent of your money. My personal 401(k) is a Roth. And in this situation, yours should be, too!

Q. My mom passed away recently, and she left behind three timeshares. I inherited them, plus I’m the executor of the estate. They’re all paid for, except for the yearly maintenance fees, which total about $1,500. I don’t think I want them, but I’m not sure what to do. Do you have any advice?

A. I’m really sorry to hear about your mom. I know you’ve got a lot of emotions going on right now, and taking on the task of overseeing the estate is a serious responsibility. There are two issues here. One, as the executor you have to decide what’s best for the estate. Number two, do any of the other heirs want these things? I wouldn’t want them, I can tell you that. I realize they’re basically free things—all you have to do is pay the maintenance fees—but by the time you do that, you probably could’ve gone somewhere else. For that kind of money, you can stay in some pretty nice spots and not have the ongoing liability.

Right now, the estate has the responsibility for the maintenance fees. I would call the timeshares and tell them the estate isn’t going to keep them, and that you’re going to deed them back to the companies. The way I look at it, you can have a lot of fun for $1,500 a year. You can go where you want, when you want. You’re not roped into a specific place and date. Part of the appeal of getting away is being able to go where you like at a time that’s right for you. I understand there may be some sentimental value attached to these, but timeshares are a horrid, inconvenient product. My sentiment would be, “I’m out of here!”

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ba, Ed.D., a parenting expert and author of 22 books,

Breastfeeding or using formula. Working versus staying at home. The best bedtime for toddlers.

including The Big Book of Parenting Solutions. Un-

Whether to let babies cry it out. Or co-sleep. To give

solicited feedback or even just dirty looks from other

time-outs or not. Spanking—yes or no?

moms in the grocery store can make parenting even more stressful. Borba even goes so far as to call it a

Let’s face it—raising kids involves making countless decisions that can shape you as a parent. Your

form of bullying, which can undermine your parent-

internal GPS (intuition) can guide you, of course. So

ing assurance and feed into the problem. “When you

can insight from friends, your spouse, your extended

have less confidence in yourself, you’re more likely to

family and fellow moms and dads online. But with so

be judgmental of other moms,” Borba says. You might even change your parenting style.

much advice swirling around, parenting can sometimes feel like a disco ball. Are you doing the right

According to Borba, one out of three moms makes

thing? It depends on whom you ask. And thanks

a different parenting choice because she feels criti-

to the anonymity of the Internet, there are plenty of

cized by another mom. A better idea? Remember that

harsh critics lurking out there, waiting to let you know

there’s no cookie cutter approach to parenting. What

whether you’re on track—or not. Oh, the scrutiny!

works for one child won’t necessarily work for another, even within the same family. To boost your confidence

“Surveys show that 95 percent of moms feel judged by just about everything these days, from

and empower yourself as a parent while you’re fig-

working or not working and their choice of infant

uring out how to tailor your approach, stand up for

feeding, to their discipline approaches and the sleep

yourself. Here’s how to handle criticism from know-it-

methods they use with their kids,” says Michelle Bor-

all friends, relatives, coworkers and cyber parents.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

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Practice assertiveness. When somebody criticizes you (as in, “I can’t believe you’re still breastfeeding,”) stay cool and calm. “Bullies love responses,” Borba says. Resist the urge to insult them with a cutting comeback. Instead, take a deep breath and respond with a simple line, such as “I hear you,” or “Thank you. I know what works best for my child,” in a firm, strong voice. “Practice your response ahead of time so you can deliver it in the heat of the moment,” Borba says. Use firm body language, too. “Look at the color of the talker’s eyes.” These assertiveness techniques can also come in handy on the playground, so teach them to your kids, too. Seek support. As a mom, you need layers of support, including an inner circle of other moms you who make you feel valued. “Find truly supportive friends—moms you can confide in who you know won’t take what you tell them any further,” says Sue Hubbard, M.D., a Dallas pediatrician and host of the “The Kid’s Doctor.” It may take some play date experimenting to find your inner circle. The pay-off? “Moms who receive support are confident, happier and more fulfilled,” Dr. Hubbard says. Your inner circle can change over time as you and your kids change. But there’s no better relationship than with other trusted moms in the trenches. That said, the mommysphere on the Internet shouldn’t be your inner circle. Not all discussions need to involve everyone. “There are many decisions you can make on your own or with that inner group of friends,” Dr. Hubbard says. If you decide to share something online, however, whether it be a tweet, text, Facebook or blog post, use the front door rule: “If you don’t want to put it on the front door for your own mother to see, don’t push send,” Dr. Hubbard says. Trust your “momtuition.” Sometimes, you just know you’re right about a parenting decision, such as deciding not to send your child to summer camp. In those stances, go with it. “Don’t secondguess yourself or go online to get others’ opinions,” Dr. Hubbard says. Similarly, if you have a tough parenting decision to make, such as whether to put your child on ADHD medication, get an expert’s advice. Seek out the counsel of your pediatrician. 23

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Don’t bully. As a mom yourself, it’s impossible not to question other moms’ parenting tactics. Still, resist the urge to inflict your opinion. Instead, stop, think and consider the potential big picture. Recently, for example, Danielle Smith, founder of Extraordinarymommy.com, was on an airplane. A woman with a preschool-age boy sat in the row behind her. “The child, who was sitting above the wing, kept telling his mom he couldn’t see. When the mom said, “Will you just shut up! Everyone is looking at you,” I started to judge her,” Smith says. “Then I said to myself, ‘Wait a minute. You have no idea what her day has been like. You don’t know if her child has pushed every single button. You’ve told your children to shut up before.’” Instead of turning around and saying something not so nice, Smith stayed facing forward, which is what seemed to be the most helpful thing to do at the moment since the mom was concerned about attracting attention. Dr. Hubbard agrees with Smith’s “stop and think” approach. When you feel the urge to judge others, “Ask yourself, ‘I wonder what happened in that mom’s life to make her feel or act that way?’” Dr. Hubbard says. If you decide to intervene, share your ideas in a positive manner, such as “Would you like to switch seats so your son can see out the window?”

Consider criticism just information. Likewise, if you feel judged, consider the judger’s perspective. U.S. Olympic gold medalist Keri Walsh Jennings was walking through the infant formula section at Target recently with her third child, one-month-old daughter, Scout, when she got the stink eye from another mom. “I took a deep breath and said to myself, ‘She has no idea I’m a low-producing woman; that my kids starve when I only feed them breast milk because my milk is too low in fat.’ So I gave the lady a smile and grabbed two boxes of formula,” Walsh Jennings says. “Knowing why I’m doing what I’m doing empowers me.” Walsh Jennings also thinks critics serve a purpose. “They make you think, ‘You’re right. I could adjust this,’ or ‘You know what? I’m kicking butt and I’m not changing a thing.” AOP Sandra Gordon is an award-winning freelance writer who delivers expert advice and the latest developments in health, nutrition, parenting and consumer issues. Her most recent book is Save a Bundle: 50+ Ways to Save Big on Baby Gear.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

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A Page in a Book by Gerry Paige Smith

Finding the Extraordinary in the Ordinary!

The word ‘ordinary’ seems to denote a sense of the unremarkable. But when you look more closely at the ordinary, really get inside its skin, special qualities emerge and unique aspects are revealed that are, in fact, extraordinary. The following titles explore ordinary’s journey to extraordinary through brilliantly realized tales. Wallflowers bloom, hidden talents are revealed and opposites swap places to see their ordinary celebrated in extraordinary ways. Look closer and discover remarkable characteristics cloaked in the trappings of the everyday.

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Maude The Not-So-Noticeable Shrimpton

by Lauren Child, Illustrated by Trisha Krauss (Candlewick) In a larger-than-life family of show-offs, Maude Shrimpton almost disappears within their scene. Her parents and siblings are extraordinary in their taste and talents. Flashy hats with live peacocks (Mom), mustaches that spiral to new heights (Dad), beauty that stops traffic (Sister) and other wild talents are the trademarks of her family. Maude’s quiet manner and simple tastes ensure that she fades into the background wherever she goes. When Maude asks for a simple pet for her birthday, her outrageous family surprises her with something much larger, grander… and hungrier. And when her new pet goes on the prowl, suddenly the ability to blend in with the background becomes an extraordinary gift! Krauss’ clever and sophisticated illustrations make this title anything but ordinary!

Extraordinary Jane

by Hannah E. Harrison (Dial / Penguin) In the midst of the most amazing sights, sounds and performances on earth, Jane is a circus dog who feels very plain indeed. She wants to play a flashy role in the show like the other members of her family, but she doesn’t have her mother’s grace or her father’s strength. Jane isn’t bold like her brothers who launch themselves from canons and she’s not as fearless as her sisters who walk the high wire. Her search for her circus talent ends in disappointment until the reader discover there is something very ordinary about Jane that makes her special to everyone. Harrison’s rich circus-style paintings accompanied by simple and concise text share a wildly sweet perspective on Jane’s journey to find her gift – which is extraordinary, indeed.

Troll Swap

by Leigh Hodgkinson (Nosey Crow / Candlewick) Timothy Limpet doesn’t quite fit in with the other trolls. While they are loud, messy and very active, Timothy prefers to be still and quiet in his tidy cave. Tabitha Lumpit isn’t like other children who are nice, polite and neat. Her parents despair that their loud and active little girl will ever settle down. When Timothy and Tabitha meet by chance, they decide to swap places to see if they each find a better fit in the other’s life. Their experiment reveals that their “normal” is soon missed by their friends and family – and perhaps their ordinary is exactly what makes them special. With unique typeface used for Timothy and Tabitha’s distinct narratives, readers will enjoy re-reading how each character finds their own extraordinary voice within their ordinary worlds.

Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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Calling All Cooks!

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

For parents who are enjoying exclusive access to food prep at home, it can be a little daunting when kids decide that they want to “help” with the cooking (“Knives, hot stoves and pepper – Oh my!”). Rather than taking the hands-off approach, parents should welcome their children’s interest, slap an apron on ‘em and let them in on every secret recipe. Fostering children’s interest in food preparation is an ideal way to incorporate learning about nutrition, measurement, chemistry and more. While kids are maturing toward their chef apprenticeship in the kitchen, the following items are recommended to boost their early interest in the culinary arts!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Curious Chef 27-Piece Foundation Set

My Chocolate Boutique Workshop

(Curious Chef)

(Fashion Angels)

For the child who turns up his nose at ‘pretend’ kitchen tools, preferring his own bona-fide cookware instead, the Curious Chef cooking set is the answer. This 27-piece cooking set include measuring spoons and cups, a rolling pin, a whisk, spatula, 3-quart mixing bowl, and more kitchen implements – as well as thumb mitts and proper chef garb! Designed for children (around age 5 and up), these cooking items are ready for actual food preparation (lead and BPA-free). Curious Chef takes young foodies seriously by giving them the real deal to work with in the kitchen. Ideal for serious young chefs and parents who want to support their interest in the kitchen, this cooking set is first on the menu!

For budding chefs with an entrepreneurial spirit, the Chocolate Boutique Workshop is an excellent introduction to crafting sweets with extra flair for sampling, giving and sharing with family. A batterypowered pot melts chocolate that can be spooned into the workshop’s fancy molds to start young confectioners on the path to culinary cocoa success. Decorative stickers, wrappers and boxes (included) transform sweet creations into gifts in an instant. The pot also makes a fun fondue for family and friends who want to dip their own chocolate treats. Carob or other chocolate melt products are ideal for this easy-to-use, delicious outlet for kids with a sweet tooth for candy cuisine.

The Wooden Cooktop

Balancing Burger

(Alex)

(International Playthings)

The youngest chefs can play-cook anything, anywhere with the well-designed and infinitely portable Wooden Cooktop from Alex. Mimicking a real stove top, and crafted from durable wood, the Wooden Cooktop features real dials that turn and a clock with moveable hands (because the timing on a poached egg is critical). And just to stir the pot further, the handle folds out with pegs for hanging utensils. While they’re too young to use your stove, the Wooden Cooktop from Alex is a smart alternative to support kids’ cooking interests on their own or on the counter, by your side.

Building the biggest burger is part of a balanced diet with this game that encourages kids to add ingredients to an every-growing burger without letting the masterpiece collapse. With a wobbly plate to start, players roll a die to determine how many ingredients to add in their turn. As the burger builds higher, a balanced diet is harder to maintain. Choosing from the customary toppings (tomatoes, lettuce, pickles, cheese and bacon) players meet the challenge as they try not to let the towering tasty feast fall. How do you want your burger? With everything, please.

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Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

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TheFlyLady

A Flight Plan For You and Your Home. by Marla Cilley

Parents Should Do Their Best, Is Too Not Our Friend ButElastic Not Expect Much in Return Clutter has a way of slipping into our world without us even noticing. It piles up on our hotspots, in our dresser drawers and on our backsides. Yes, you know that very personal clutter that we collect because we over-indulge. All clutter is a result of over- indulging; too many clothes, too many shoes, too much stuff! What do we do with our clutter? We try to disguise it by putting it in pretty little boxes, baskets and plastic tubs. Just because we have contained it does not make it any less clutter. In fact, if you need to find something those clutter containers throw up all over your home. In our haste to camouflage our clutter we don’t get rid of it, we just cover it up. We do this with our bodies, too! Think of it this way! Let’s say our favorite jeans get a little too tight. Instead of eliminating those sodas and sweet treats for a week we reach for our fat clothes. You know the ones that are hiding in your drawer for those bloated “that time of the month” days. The ones with drawstrings and elastic. Has wearing these clothes become part of your daily routine? Elastic is not our friend! It doesn’t bring our Body Clutter to our attention! That little uncomfortable feeling in our jeans should be just the call to action we need to take the baby steps to declutter. I am not talking about crash dieting either. Those don’t work any better than crisis cleaning. Oh sure, they will help you lose the weight to get into that wedding dress or bathing suit, but after you accomplish your unrealistic goal the weight will come back! Here is what we can do to address our Body Clutter:

2. Weigh every day! This tells you how your body reacted to what you did yesterday.

7. Drink eight glasses of water. This is the best beauty treatment you can do!

3. Never crash diet!

Body Clutter is not just the cellulite on our thighs, it is the negative thinking we have between our ears. When we look at our relationship with food, we will begin to eat and move to bless our bodies. We have been indulging our little princess for a long time. You would not allow your children to eat like you do or be sedentary. It is time to go out and play!

4. Eat three meals a day and three snacks. Eat something good for you every two hours. 5. Baby step your way out of drinking sugar or diet sodas. Replace with water. 6. Do 15 minutes of loving movement each day!

T r i n i T y

8. GET RID OF YOUR FAT CLOTHES!

For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, see her website and join her free mentoring group at www.FlyLady.net. Also check out her books, Sink Reflections, published by Random House, and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2013 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.

D i s T i n c T i v e s

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

A Classical and Christian Academy 745-2464

www.tcsopelika.org

1. Don’t wear clothes with elastic or drawstrings. 27

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Struggling to come up with a fresh idea for your child’s next party? Bigger isn’t always better, and a party shouldn’t cut into your college savings fund. Get creative, be inspired and make one or more of the following ideas your own. Abracadabra spells magic: Invite guests with a welcome letter to Hogwarts or break out the top hats and card tricks. Bowling: With or without bumpers, it means casual fun that keeps everyone moving. On site food allows parents to relax – just bring the cake to celebrate your next big day. Clowning around: Face paint, juggling and dressing up. Kids can create their own acts and entertain one another. Donation to a cause: In lieu of gifts, request that guests contribute funds to an organization the birthday child is passionate about. Develop a theme around the cause, such as a pet theme for an animal shelter donation. Extraterrestrial explorations: Is there life on Mars? Plan a space-themed party for your future astronaut. Fairy tale theater: Raid the dress-up bin for costumes, clear a space for a stage and let the kids enact their favorite stories. Simple, familiar tales mean everyone knows the story and can embellish at will without a script. Golf, in miniature: Get outside and laugh as your group makes its way around the mini-golf green. Hawaiian luau: Eat pineapple and serve fruit punch in tall glasses with tiny umbrellas. Find leis at your local party store. Ice Cream truck: Did you know you can arrange to have them come directly to your home? Call them up, set a date and time and let the birthday child have first pick for a treat. Jammies: If you’ve been putting off that muchrequested sleepover, now is the time to say yes to pizza, popcorn and late-night giggling. Kitchen creations: Seek out local cooking classes for children. Most locations that teach classes also offer party packages. Local park fun: For a low-budget, relaxed party, bring cake and a picnic to your neighborhood playground. Music for all: Create shakers or rain sticks from beans, paper tubes and masking tape. Dance to favorite tunes, sing and march around the block with your creations and other rhythm instruments. 29

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Nature hike: Have a slice of cake at the trailhead and then explore the landscape. Party favors can include bug boxes and small magnifying glasses. Obstacle course: Get creative in your back yard with hula hoops, old cardboard boxes, benches and anything else you have lying around. Kids can climb, jump and crawl over, under and around. Time their circuit as part of a friendly competition. Puppets: Make sock puppets with button eyes or design simple stick puppets. Read a short story or fable for inspiration and kids can work together to create their own puppet show. Quidditch anyone? All you need is a wild imagination, hula hoops for goals, a soccer ball for the quaffle, smaller soft balls for bludgers and a speedy runner for the snitch. Rock climbing or bouldering: Head to a rock gym to learn new skills together and get moving. Science experiments: Instead of the usual party crafts, take chances, get messy and explore the laws of physics or the states of matter. Find books of experiments at your local library. Tea party: Fancy cups and fancy food are just the beginning. Dress up, wear hats and invite guests to bring their favorite doll or teddy bear to tea. Uniquely you: What does your child’s dream party look like? How can the theme reflect something special about what is important to your child or your family. Make it happen. Volunteer for a cause: One child volunteering at the food bank or animal shelter with her family may not feel like she is accomplishing much. Invite a group of her friends to join her for a work party and her gift will grow exponentially. Water fun: Rent the party room at your local pool for a splashing good time. X-men and friends: A superheroes theme can include capes, masks and feats of daring do, well-supervised, of course.

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Yard games: Time to teach your kids and their friends all the old favorites. Croquet, badminton, bocce and horseshoes will keep a crowd entertained and active all afternoon.

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Zip line: You know your kids have been asking for this. If you have the space, install one in your back yard and let the flying begin. AOP

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Heather Lee Leap is a freelance writer and mom. Her favorite parties involve active kids, ingenuity and ice cream.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

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Cakes/Finger Food Cakeapotamus

2213 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika. 559-1491; www.cakeapotamus.com. Bakery & Cake Studio! Awesome kids deserve awesome cakes designed and created just for them! Our new location is the perfect place for: tea parties, birthday parties, book club meetings, or evening cake classes for adults.

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1625 E. University Drive, Auburn. 887-1112. Donuts, fritters, and special order cakes for all occasions available. New this summer, Italian Ice and Homemade Slow Churn Ice Cream! www. dsquaredonuts.com. • Bruster’s Ice Cream- 2172 E University Drive, Auburn. 821-9988. Ice cream cakes and pies are loaded with personality! In Store Tour-Bring your group for a tour of our store. Learn how Bruster’s Ice Cream got started and help us make a batch of our delicious home-made ice cream. Enjoy some ice cream and have some fun! Sundae Bar-We can bring the party to you. We offer traditional sundaes, brownie sundaes, banana splits and strawberry shortcakes. We provide the ice cream, toppings, spoons, napkins & cups. • Chill- 234 West Magnolia Ave, Auburn. 502-1114. Tigertown, Opelika. 745-7714. Yogurt, custard, sorbet, smoothies, yocakes and more! www.chillyogurtcafe.com

• Edible Arrangements2900 East University Dr. 120, The Shoppes at Cary Creek, Auburn. 821-9600. Leader in fresh fruit bouquets and gourmet chocolate dipped fruit. Stop by and grab and go or call in a special order. • GiGi’s Cupcakes-132 North College Street, Auburn. 887-2253. Cupcakes for all occasions; many flavors to choose from with new items for all seasons. Special orders taken. www.gigiscupcakesusa.com/auburnalabama

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• Great American Cookies- 1627 Opelika Rd. #10 (inside the mall), Auburn. 821-4553. A special day calls for a special Cookie Cake. And with Great American Cookies’ wide variety of beautiful and delicious offerings, you can give the birthday boy or girl a party to remember. Simply choose your favorite design and add a custom message. Cookie party trays and cookie tins available.

• The Gourmet Tiger- 231 N Dean Rd, Suite 2. Auburn. 821-9222; www.gourmettiger.com. Bakery specializing in birthday cakes of all sizes and designs. Check out our gallery of cake pictures on line.

Entertainment • dRMagic- 887-8029. www.drmagicfun.com; Dr. Magic will provide balloon twisting fun, magic, and face painting for all parties. We also offer a variety of costumed characters, including princesses, wizards, pirates, and, of course, clowns. • Farmer Brown’s Party Animals- 334-319-2893.www. fbpartyanimals.weebly.com. Specializing in petting zoos, birthday parties, live nativity scenes and more. You can party at our place or we can come to you. •H & G Horse Quarters- Katie Grimes; 887-0026. 943 Lee Road 57, Auburn. www.hghorsequarters.com; “Every child’s dream is to ride a pony.” Birthday party packages available on site or we can bring the party to you! Our facilities include staff for hosting and facilitating your party, the horse arena for riding, includes all riding equipment, a beautiful gazebo with tables and chairs and much more! • Jubilee Farm Pony Parties- www. jubileefarmpartyparties.com. We can bring the party to you or schedule to visit our farm for pony rides and meet all the farm animals.

• Dairy Queen2019 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika. 742-9400. DQ Cakes available.

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• Small Cakes- 3051 Fredrick Road, Opelika. 737-5555. Cupcakes for all occasions. • Sweet Malisa’s-108 South 9th Street, Opelika. 737-6565. Cakes and desserts for all occasions.

• Kona Ice- 7073650; www. facebook.com/ KonaIceAuburnColumbus; Offering premium shaved ice treat for children (of all ages)! Our Party Truck will come to your location! Party music makes for a festive mood, Kona Ice for all guests, Birthday boy/ girl gets a King Kona, Hit the FLAVORWAVE, party favors available, Kona character (when available). • Sandy’s Stables- 4273 Lee Road 54, Opelika. 7410020. Pony rides, trail rides, and visiting all of our different farm animals. All ages are welcome. • Sweet Cheeks Face and Body Art- sweetcheekspainting.com. Let us help you plan the perfect party or event! We offer party packages with face painting, glitter or mica powder tattoos, body art or a combination of our services. • The Big Green Bus- The Big Green Bus brings the party to you! The Big Green Bus is a school bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility. 332-0833 or www. mybiggreenbus.com. 31

Equipment/Game Rentals Auburn Bounce

319-1451; www.auburnbounce.com Auburn family owned and operated. Offering a great selection of bounce houses with all of your favorite characters. Also available are inflatable slides, water slides and concessions including: popcorn machines, sno-kones and cotton candy. • 4 Party Plus Rentals- “Fun is Our Business”. 749-6419; www.4partyplus.com. Inflatables, slides, games, concessions, characters and more. • Space Walk of Auburn- 887-5437; spacewalkaub@herecomesfun.com; Offering space walks, wet/dry slides, big obstacle courses, inflatable games, and more. Concessions available too- popcorn, cotton candy and sno cones. www. herecomesfun.com

Limousines • Touch of Class Limousine: Montgomery. 334-284-2673. Carry up to 14 passengers at a time. Can pick up kids and ride them around or take them for pizza, etc. and then back home. These limos have all the extras for a fun time - red carpet, DVD for movies, a Birthday sign! Call for details. • Young’s Limousine and Airport ServiceMontgomery; 334-262-1634. We can carry up to 16 passengers. Wide variety of large luxury vehicles. Great for birthday parties, weddings or other special events. Call for details.

Paper Goods/Decorations/ Invitations • Auburn Awards & Fine Papers-127 South College Street, Auburn. 887-7768 • Auburn Flowers and Gifts- 1499 S College St, Ste F, Auburn. 502-4567. Balloon bouquets, gourmet gifts and flower arrangements. • Check it Out! -239 N Gay Street, Auburn. 826-0308. Balloon bouquets, costumes, party paper products, and more. • Hobby Lobby- TigerTown, Opelika. 745-2730. Party supplies, invitations, crafts, and more. • Lynn’s Hallmark- Inside the Mall. 887-9889. Birthday invitations and unique gifts. • Party City -Tiger Town, Opelika. A one-stop party store that provides a wide selection of merchandise at everyday low prices.

Party Planners Posh & Whimsy

334-539-3400; www.poshnwhimsy.com Enchanting events by design. Party planning and design for all your occasions. Themes include Posh Princess, Posh Tots & Tiaras, Spa La-La, Party Like a Posh Star, Pixies & Pirates, Safari Adventures, Under the Sea, and much more! Find us on facebook. www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

• Special Arrangements- 2201 Enterprise Drive, Opelika. 737-2995; www.specialarrangements.com Offering a wide array of products including selections in tables, chairs, fine china, custom linens, chair covers, tents, staging, dance floors and more.

Unique Gifts for Kids and Adults Sprout Children’s Boutique

2436 East University Drive Suite 2201, Auburn. 3297111. www.sproutauburn.com. Offering upscale consignment, handmade gifts & retail, monogramming/appliques, and more! We accept name-brand gently used children’s clothing (sizes newborn-12), children’s shoes, and maternity clothing. • Cutie Pie- 2415 Moores Mill Rd # 210, Auburn. 826-1254. More than a Children’s store....unique gifts for all ages & occasions!

• Kazoo Toys- 3051 Frederick Rd, Opelika. 737-6930. We provided parents, teachers, and kids with one of the country’s largest selections of quality toys, games, puzzles and creative playthings. A full-service toy store that offers a truly unique toy shopping experience.

clay session. After the clay has dried, the projects will be fired in the kiln and can be picked up within two weeks after your pottery event. Day and time of your clay pottery party are to be arranged with instructor and are subject to studio availability on Monday through Friday. $25/participant + $5 materials fee.

• Kidz World- USA Town Center, 1220 Fox Run Avenue, Opelika. 705-8098. Where the Value Never Stops! Name brand children’s clothes at huge savings. Area’s largest selection of children’s clothing and hairbows! Premie, newborn, girls sizes infant to 16, boys sizes infant to 18/20.

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University

PLACES TO PARTY – Artistic Auburn Parks and Recreation

• Fringe Kids- 209 South 8th Street, Opelika. 7454497. Upscale consignment clothing for kids ages infant through 14/16. • Fun and Fancy- 3051 Fredrick Road, Opelika. 745-2237. We can help you with gift, clothing & shoe needs from expectant mother to baby to child and beyond.

501-2930; www.auburnalabama.org Painting Party- Feeling artistic and want a day of painting on canvas or pottery? There are several painting options available. $150 for up to 10 participants and $10 for each additional guest (2 hour time slots). Celebrate With Clay/Pottery Party- You select the project from such choices as Secret Keeper Pockets, Coiled Critter Sculptures, or Fantasy Fish Dishes, and celebrants make and glaze their projects during the

901 South College Street, Auburn. 844-1484; www. jcsm.auburn.edu. Offering individuals, businesses, and corporations an exciting environment in which to hold social gatherings, presentations, performances or meetings including birthday parties. Rental facilities for parties include the gardens, auditorium, cafe, grand gallery, rotunda, and terrace. • Bare Ware Pottery- 12 Woodruff Rd, Columbus, Ga. (706) 571-0507; www.barewarepottery.com. We Do It All” Pottery and Pizza Party includes invitations, pizza, cake, soda, dishes, decorations and pottery choice for each guest. “Have Your Cake and Paint Too” is an option offering decorations, cake, invitations and choice of pottery. At the pottery-only party option, you supply food and drinks and the studio provides the paint and pottery. Adults also have the option of a Tea Party Package. Bare Ware provides fruit, petit-fours and tea while guests paint a tea-cup and saucer. Each party package is priced on a per-person basis.

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New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.

Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!

We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?

Riverview Reﬁnement, Program, Campﬁres night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...

waiting lists start early...sign up soon!... Waitingwww.riverviewcamp.com! lists start early...sign up soon!... 1

Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722 Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International

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Only 1 /Mountain 2 hours from Huntsville Located on top of Lookout in Mentone, AL. Only a 3 hr drive.

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We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.

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• Opelika Parks and Recreation- Ceramics Birthday Parties. Denson Arts Center, Opelika. 705-5547. Looking for a fun and unique Child’s Birthday Party? Let the Ceramics Department plan your next event! Kids love it! Parents appreciate it! All children enjoy a project that can be completed at the party and taken home. Birthday child receives a special Birthday Plate! • Spirited Art- 3051 Frederick Road, Opelika. 363-5257; www.myspiritedart.com. Looking for something fun for a group? Call us to book a fun and exciting painting party in Auburn. We can accommodate most groups, small and large. Birthdays, reunions, and church or office gatherings are just a few of the reasons to enjoy having fun and participating in a painting party. Bring a friend, a sense of humor and your favorite beverage and snack. We provide all of the painting supplies (smocks, brushes, easels, canvases and everything in between). • Perch Bead Studio-416 S. Gay Street, Auburn. 209-1378; www.perchbeadstudio.com Perch is a place to create, design and be inspired. Create your own unique jewelry for your birthday party. Tools are provided and materials are available for purchase. Children will have a fun time creating jewelry and memories together at Perch. • Uptown Art Uncorked- 2436 East University Drive, Auburn. 209-1188. 127 South 8th Street

Opelika. 741-5353. Paint a canvas masterpiece with step-by-step group instruction.

Bowling • AMF Auburn Lanes-719 Opelika Road, Auburn. 887-6573; www.amf.com; Why not have a ball on your next birthday party or special event with AMF! AMF Bowling Center entertainment packages will make your party a striking success. Kid’s Birthday Bash-Every B-day Bash package includes bowling, bowling shoes, party supplies and plenty of great food and beverages. And you can even choose a package that includes an authentic bowling pin that everyone can sign for the birthday boy or girl.

Gymnastics/Cheer/Dance Make Your Move Dance Studio

“Where Everyone’s a Star”. 116 Columbus Parkway, Opelika. Call Mandy to reserve your Ballerina Birthday. 705-0205 or www.makeyourmovedance.com.

Martial Arts • Auburn Academy of Martial Arts- 323 Airport Rd, Suite J in Airport Plaza, Auburn. 502-7221; www. auburnacademy.com. Party highlights include: Your

child will be a Black Belt for a day! Cake is cut with a real Samurai sword! Every child breaks a board (optional), a unique take-home gift! Medals and other martial arts items are available for favors! Learning, exercise, games and fun! No experience necessary. 1 1/2 hours long, scheduled on weekends. Other Party Ideas: Host a self-defense party for your teenager; Throw a fitness party for a colleague who is “over the hill”; Kids and parents can party together for some great family time. • Auburn Mixed Martial Arts- 2515 East Glenn Ave, Auburn. 887-0818; www.auburnmma.com Black Belt Birthday Bash! Be a blackbelt Ninja for a day! Break boards, martial arts games, martial arts cake, cut your cake with a real Samurai sword and take home a Samurai sword as a birthday gift! No experience necessary. Schedule a unique party today!

Miscellaneous Auburn Parks and Recreation

501-2930. Boykin Community Center- 400 Boykin Street, Auburn. Gym and meeting rooms. Dean Road Recreation Center- 307 South Dean Road, Auburn. Gym, meeting areas and ceramics studio. Frank Brown Recreation Center- 235 Opelika Rd, Auburn. Gym, game rooms, and other rooms for party rental.

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Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center- 222 East Drake Avenue, Auburn. Conference rooms, children’s gallery and performance center.

Cyber Zone

107 North 9th Street, Opelika. 737-5000 www.cyberzone334. com. New 20,000 square ft facility featuring a laser tag arena with the latest high-tech laser equipment, high energy music, lights and special effects. Private themed party rooms with a variety of party packages available. Large arcade with new retro games. Host your birthday, group events, church lock-ins, and more! • Eastdale Mall- Montgomery; 334-277-7380. Build-a-Bear Workshopwww.buildabear.com. Parties start at $10 per child. At a scheduled party, each Guest makes their own stuffed animal friend! A party leader guides them through each

step of the fun-filled bear-making experience. Then, if you choose, your Guests can pawsonalize their new furry friends with hundreds of outfits and accessories. They’ll walk out, hand-in-paw with a smile and a new best friend! Ice Palace- Offers a very exciting alternative called

Broomball. Broomball or Ice Skating is offered after regular hours at the mall from Monday thru

Saturday from 9:00 p.m. until Midnight. Please call 334-277-2088 for more information. The Island Carousel- Tables and chairs next to the carousel is a perfect princess party location. Pay for the carousel rides; no reservations required. • Frog Legs –“Where Kids Come First” 467 North Dean Road, Auburn. 887-3764 or 3218221; www.froglegsparty.com. Party Packages: Tad Poles Package -8 guests; Tree Frogs Package -16 guests; Bull Frog Package - 24 guests. All Packages include: all paper products, spoons, forks, plates, cups, napkins, table cloths, balloons, also 1 slice of pizza per child and 1 drink per child. It also includes a party host. Additional food, loot bags and ice cream can be purchased from us. The only thing you bring in is your birthday cake. • Opelika Parks and Recreation Covington Recreation Center- 213 Carver Avenue, Opelika. 705-5550. Gym and meeting rooms; two playground units; picnic tables in wooded areas with grills; outdoor swimming pool. Denson Drive Recreation Center- 1102 Denson Dr, Opelika. 705-5547. Gym and meeting rooms. Sportsplex- 1001 Andrews Road, Opelika. 7055560. Adult activity with tables and chairs. Three 930 square foot meeting rooms that can be opened up to one 2791 square foot room; Seats 150 people. Outdoor amphitheater, gym, pool, and splash pad.

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 9-12 · SESSION 2: June 23-26 SESSION 3: July 28-31 · $100 PER SESSION Lunch and a free Par 3 round are included each day. » FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER, CALL 334.749.9042. «

THE ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL AT GRAND NATIONAL 3000 Robert Trent Jones Trail · Opelika, AL 36801 facebook.com/rtjgrandnational · rtjgolf.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

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For more information about any park, or to reserve it for a special function, please contact the Parks and Recreation department’s administrative office, 501-2930. Outdoor Pools- Samford Pool & Drake PoolCome Party With Us! Not only are Auburn City Pools open daily for the season, but now you can come party with us! Schedule your next birthday, wedding, anniversary, or corporate party at one of Auburn’s pools. We provide the lifeguards, you provide the guests! Waivers must be signed by all participants. Pool rules and regulations apply. Samford pool available on Saturdays from 6 - 8 p.m., or Drake Pool, available daily from 5 - 8 p.m. (available 6 - 8 p.m. only during swim sessions). Outside food and beverages are allowed. No adult beverages or glass containers are allowed. For more information, or to book your party, contact the Pool Manager at 501-2957. Bowden Park, 340 Bowden Drive. The facilities are a playground, an open, grassy area, and a swing set. Felton Little Park (the sand park), 341 E Glenn Ave. A playground with swings and picnic tables, as well as some baseball fields Hickory Dickory Park, 1399 Hickory Lane. A unique playground experience for children with multiple levels of play including ropes, swings, slides, climb-

ing and more. A separate area for smaller children and age appropriate play structures. Picnic tables, restrooms and large grassy area. Kiesel Park, 520 Chadwick Ln. Kiesel Park is Auburn’s largest park, with a pavilion, a garden, a pond, and a 2 1/4 mile walking trail. The NunnWinston house is also located at this park for rental. Martin Luther King Park, 190 Byrd Street. A pavilion with picnic tables, a playground, a basketball goal, and a fenced-in field. Moores Mill Park, 900 E University Dr. Large grassy area, a sand volleyball court, and a wooded area with picnic tables. Sam Harris Park, 850 Foster St. Playground, a pavilion, and a walking trail that is 1/6th of a mile long. Town Creek Park, 1150 S Gay St. Open grassy area and a pavilion, restrooms and a walking trail here that is 0.87 miles long.

Forest Ecology Preserve

222 North College Street, Auburn. 707-6512, www. auburn.edu/preserve; Must be a member of the Preserve, join us! Our parties are $125 for up to 20 kids- $5 for every child over 20. Party will last from 1.5- 2 hours. A trained naturalist will present a 45 minute program. A teacher/naturalist will also lead the hike (about 35 minutes) if part of the program. Six party themes to choose from: 1) Nuts for Nature, 2) Radical Reptiles, 3) Incredible Insects,

4) Frogs and Fun, 5) Art in Nature, 6) Warm for the Winter. • The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery. 334-240-4900. A great place to host a birthday party. The sights and sounds of the Zoo make an exciting and exotic backdrop for any special occasion. Shelters can be reserved in advance; and are located at the front gate area or the new playground. Rental fees start as low as $50 for a threehour rental. Picnics, outside food and beverages are allowed at all shelters; however, we do ask that you refrain from using cups with lids and/or straws, no balloons and no cooking devices of any sort. These are not allowed for the protection and safekeeping of our animals. All guests must clean and vacate the shelter after rental time has elapsed. • Opelika City Parks- For rental information call the Opelika Recreation Department, 705-5560. Aquatics Center Pool and Splash Park- 1001 Andrews Road, Opelika. The indoor, zero entry pool and outdoor splash pad can be reserved for a party. Rental of the pool includes a party room with table and chairs. The splash park rental includes an outdoor picnic table with an umbrella and chairs. Floral Park, 600 Floral Street- features 3 Adult Softball Fields, One Control Building with Restrooms, Open Play Field, Playground ,Family Area with horseshoes and shuffle board.

2320 MOORES MILL ROAD, SUITE. 250 AUBURN, AL 36830 • (334) 887-0099

Congratulations to the Liles Smiles no cavity winners! (Wii Drawing for May 1st)

A.G. Henry Aaliyah Simmons AaronDuBois Abigail Chandler Aelisea Harrison Ainsley King Airyana Belcher Aiyana Ranson Akyla Monroe Alana Prince Alecia Williams Alex Body, Jr. Alexis Williams Alicia Peralta Allie Reese Thompson Allison Timm Amerie Redenius Amir Word Amori Word Analyssa McClelland Andrew Barnett Jr. Angelina Jones Anijah Harris Anna Omilian Annabelle Carver Annabelle Woolley Annie Padilla Ansley Caldwell Anthony Ransom Ar’rayah Bailey Ariel Eldred

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Chloe Jacksland Christian Ransom Christie Heath Christopher Martinez Christopher Sanchez Clete Carlson Cody East Connor Reeder Conteh Warren Cooper Manley Courtney Pugh Cu’Darieus Hale Dailee Plair Dakota Pugh Dalton Ruth Bendinger Dalton Thrower Daltyn Atkinson Danecia Foreman Daniel Champion Daniella Munson Darren Harris, Jr. David Cruz De’Love Shaver De’Shaun Mims DeQuavius Warren Devin McPherson Donye Harris Dylan Landreth Dylan McClelland Dylan Tapley Dylan White

Edgar Martinez Eli Taylor Ella Autrey Emma Jacoway Emma Stewart Emma Voss Ephriam Thornton Essense Key Ethan Jacksland Ethan Robinson Eva Caponetto Garner Young Gavin Gibbs Gavin Raines Gavin White Genesis Williams Gracie ( Tonya) Mathis Greer Long Gustavious Davidson Haley Sumner Hannah Cooper Hannah Cottrell Hannah McCoy Harmony Ware Harrison Short Henley Bice Hollis Jones Horacio Gonzalez Hudson Olive Hudson Smith Hunter Clayton

Hunter Rasnick Isabel Aleman Isabel Zouhary Isabella McIntyre Isabella Whatley Isaiah Lyles Ja’Corey Avery JaCarius Gullatte Jack Johnson Jack McPherson Jackson Lovvorn Jade Jones Jaderrious Avery James Hutchinson Janai Gabriel Jane Humphries Jasmine Stokes Jaxon Baker Jaxon Hunkapiller Jaxon Morris Jaylin Cumins Jayna Raines Jennifer Gonzalez Jesus Martinez Jhavian Williams Joanna Sorrells Jocelyn Hayes John Embry Northrup John Simons John Taylor Henry Jonathan Martinez Jordy Martinez Jose Gonzalez Joshua Aleman Julia Johnston Julie Hall Justin Baker Justin Nelms Juyeong Lee Ka’Moreia Love Kaelyn Webster

Kaidan Griffin-Beatty Kaleigha Watson Kamariah Finley Kamarius Griffin-Beatty Kambell Fetner Kannon Fetner Karleigh Whalen Kayla Boutwell Kaylee Eblin Keairra Morgan Kelly Harman Kendarius Bailey Kendrick Manley Kennady Fetner Kenneth Jones Kensley Carter Key’Air Davidson Khloe Drake Kim Harman Kimberly Lopez Kiptyn Mumma Kody Atkinson Kody Shelnutt Kourtney Dowdell Kyara Jane Copeland Kyle Harman Kynlea Peterson La’Daisha Nunley Landon McGregor Landon Nelms Lane McDaniel Laney Futral Lee McCall Leighton Moss Leo Andrzejewski Leslie Paschal Libby Cottrell Libby Williamson Lila McCoy Lilina Aleman Lillian Welcher

Lily Otwell Linnea Redenius Logan Baker Lori Thomas Luke Rudd Macy Parker Maddie Grace Currie Maddison Berry Madison Melton Madison Morgan Maggie Casey Makayla Warren Makenzie Currie Makenzie Denney Makya Boyd Malachi Benford Malik Benford Mallie Cate Jarvis Mariah Ross Markel Straghn Marley Golden Marquavious Hutchinson Marterrious Hutchinson Mary Brantley Moore Mary Kate Melton Mason Hughes Mason Lehmkuhl Matthew Mottern Matthew Roberts Matthew Wright Mattie Johnson Max Autrey McKenzie Maddox Megan Harman Meleah Tigner Melissa Ixmay Melony McCall Memphis Butler Mia Tatum Michaela Knowles Morgan Paschal

Moses Pendleton Nathan Bean Nathaniel Whitlow Noah Chamblee Noah Houston Noah Warren Olivia Johnson Olivia Schwendeler Paeden Rivers Paige Lang Paisley Nicolaisen Parker Bergesen Peyton Harris Pileepae Holloway Preston Harrison Preston Hunt Quentavion Meadows Quinten Copeland Raleigh Anna Harris Ramsey Chandler Rasheeda Abdullah Reagan Butler Reece Brown Reeve Caldwell Reid Brown Richard Lucas Roberto Martinez Roger Perez Ryanne McDonald Sadiah Shamery Samantha Alford Samantha Belcher Samuel Omilian Sashia Martinez Savanna Bridges Savannah Britt Serenity N. Ligon ShaKeira Smart Shelby Chandler Skylar Storm Sloane Petersen

Sophia Pastor Sophia Smith Spencer Caldwell Sydney McReynolds Syrinna Holloway Tanner Woolley Thomas Young Tijah Presley Timothy Hall Tonya Tucker Tre Redden Tre’Kayla Patten Trenise Tigner Treyshun Tigner Tristan Tatum Tucker Thrower Turner Stephens Ty’Rica Giles Tyler Rasnick Tyquavious Barnett Vanessa Ismay Vernicia Evans Victoria Redden Walker McFadden Wells Simmons Wesley Williamson Weston Rice Wyatt Harvill Yusang Cho Za’Kariyya Aikens Za’Quan Boyd Zachary Carter ZaiAsia Jones ZaiQuain King ZaiQuria King Zayden Harris Zechariah Eldred Zeriauna Jackson Zion Rush Zy’Keria Jackson

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Municipal Park - A beautiful city park located across the street from the Opelika Recreation Center on Denson Drive. The park contains both a shelter and a gazebo with picnic tables. A unique attraction in the park is the Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train. The train runs seasonally and is also available for rental. Playgrounds are located throughout the site. Spring Villa, 1474 Lee Road 148. 350 acre park with an antebellum house, outdoor volley-ball courts, horseshoe pit, campground with hookups for 24 spaces, campground lodge suitable for gatherings, walking trails, day camp compound, restrooms, outside band stand, nature trails, open play area, picnic tables and grills among the wooded areas, and picnic shelters.

Photographers Picture Perfect by Candy

www.pictureperfectbycandy.com; Call Candy at 663-3343 or cavera4@bellsouth.net. Picture Perfect is a full service studio, specializing in contemporary artistic portraiture of children, tweens and teens. Other services include canvas wraps, standout mounting, custom albums and coffee table books. Unique and colorful custom framing available.

Restaurants • Brick Oven Pizza- 2520 Enterprise Dr., Opelika. 745-0223. Ask about “create your own personal pizza” party. Each party guest can make their own pizza from scratch. • Burger King – Auburn-1740 South College Street. 466-8961. I‎ ndoor playground with lots of slides and tables for your party. Add a kids meal which includes a drink and party favor. Opelika- 415 Second Avenue. 749-3351. Indoor playground with lots of slides and tables for your party. Add a kids meal which includes a drink and party favor. Opelika- 1400 Columbus Parkway. 741-9120. Outdoor playground. • Chick-fil-A: Village Mall-1627 Opelika Rd Ste 54, Auburn. 887-5429. Party space available inside the mall. Check with management for “The Cow” appearances. Tiger Town- 2052 Tiger Town Pkwy, Opelika. 7417112. Indoor playground. • CiCi’s Pizza Buffet- 821-2600; 1550 Opelika Road, Suite #30, Auburn. Endless pizza buffet, salad, pasta, and dessert.

• McDonald’s -You bring the kids, we’ll make the party. Super-fun for the kids, stress-free for you! We’ve got this party thing down to a science: Happy Meals, cake, decorations, party favors. Auburn- 2372 College Street. 502-8900. Outdoor playground. Ronald Drive-Across from the Mall, Auburn. 8215303. New indoor playground. Opelika- 1104 Columbus Pkwy. 749-5648. • Shakey’s Pizza- 2487 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn. 826-0060. The perfect place for any event. Bring the kids’ friends for an easy birthday party - we do all the cooking and clean up! Party room in the back next to all the tokens, games, and prizes!

Skating • Columbus Ice Rink- 400 Fourth Street, Columbus, Ga. (706) 225-4500. www.columbusicerink.org. Put your party plans on ice! Book your next birthday celebration at the Columbus Ice Rink! Guests will enjoy the perfect party on ice, complete with activities and a private area to eat and enjoy the rest of your celebration. With a full service cleanup crew and a personal party host, Columbus Ice Rink is at your service!

WHAT DOES NIFFER’S OFFER PARENTS? Great family atmosphere for the the whole gang Voted best family restaurant Great kids menus with so many items . . . Special fish drink and the make your own sundaes Kids area to play . . . almost like date night All the comforts every parent wants Great adult food and drinks too!

Auburn • 1151 Opelika Road Lake Martin • 7500 Hwy 49 So. Opelika • 917 So. Railroad Ave. www.niffersplace.com Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

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501-2930; www.auburnalabama.org A Ball of a Birthday- Do you have a child who loves sports? For his party, enjoy fun-filled games of basketball and kickball with a refereeofficiated game or a soccer themed day of fun. Package includes decorations, plates and cups, plastic ware, set-up and clean-up. Birthday parties are scheduled in two-hour time intervals. $140 for officiated games/$100 without officials. Auburn Soccer Complex Party- Celebrate your big day at the Auburn Soccer Complex! Book your party on our new playground. Two booking options are available: Option 1) playground with access to restrooms or Option 2) playground with access to restrooms and the conference room inside the soccer building. Dates and times are subject to availability. Parties will not be booked on league game days, tournaments, or City events. $75 (Option 1). $100 (Option 2). • Auburn University Kid’s Club- Auburn Athletic Dept. 844-9706. Celebrate your birthday while showing your Auburn spirit! For children with birthdays that fall during Auburn’s sports seasons, the Tiger Birthday Program is the perfect option! AU Athletics strives to accommodate birthday parties at almost all of our home sporting events, and the deadline for all birthday reservations is one week prior to the desired game, so make sure to sign up today! Packages are available at the following sports: men’s basketball (not for the Alabama game), women’s basketball, gymnastics, baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, swimming & diving, and equestrian. Party includes 10 ticket to event, 10 shakers, hot dogs and drinks, an autographed item, birthday donut cake, and name on the scoreboard. • Sports Academy- 3678 Pepperell Pkwy- Midway Plaza, Opelika. 749-4040; www.sportsacademyauburn.com. “Have a Ball” at your child’s birthday party this year! Our parties are easy, fun and memorable for all kids! Our energetic party coaches will organize and facilitate a variety of fast-paced and fun sports games. Age appropriate games include: relay races, tug-ofwar, dodge ball, kick ball, flag football, soccer, baseball, and softball. Kids take turns in our batting cages and home run derby for prizes! • Scutter Putters Mini Golf- 1220 Fox Run Ave. USA Town Center, Opelika. 745-9393; www. scutterputtersminigolf.com. Area’s only indoor, climate controlled mini golf facility. Party room available. AOP 37

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Family Calendar Ongoing:

A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an all-inclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-728-1162 or email: momofpnk@gmail.com. Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-705-8877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival • Disney’s “Mary Poppins”. July 16-27. Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Montgomery. www.asf.net. Birmingham Civil Rights Museum Pieces of a Dream: Mixed Media. June 17 - August 24. Birmingham Civil Rights Museum. www.bcri.org. Bosom Buddies (a breast cancer support group) Meets at The Health Resource Center the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. (334) 528-1260. www.eamc.org. Callaway Gardens • FSU Flying High Circus. June 19-23, 26-30, July 10-14, 17-21, 24-28. Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens. com. Cloverdale Playhouse “Clybourne Park” by Bruce Norris. June 19-29. Cloverdale Playhouse, Montgomery. www.cloverdaleplayhouse.org. Columbus Civic Center Peter Pan Live! July 17-20. www.columbusciviccenter.com. DeSoto Caverns Park God and Country Sound, Light, and Water Show. June 8 July 31. DeSoto Caverns Park, Childersburg. www.desotocavernspark.com. East Alabama Birth Village 3rd Monday of each month. Monarch Estates, Auburn. 6 p.m. 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. Friday on the Green Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Alexander City. May 23 August 29. Facebook. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art • Matt Moulthrop: Auburn Oak and Heartwood: Woodturned Vessels by Ed, Philip, and Matt Moulthrop. Through Sept. 21. • Picturing An Era: Art from the Great Depression to the Second World War. Through Sept. 21. • John Augustus Walker’s Historical Panorama of Alabama Agriculture. Through Sept. 21. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that 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. McWane Science Center • Animation - featuring Cartoon Network. Through August 30. • “Island of the Lemurs Madagascar” IMAX. Through January 2015. Birmingham. www.mcwane.org. Meditation Garden and Labyrinth Come and Find the Quiet Center... in the Meditation Garden and Labyrinth, provided as a community service by Village Christian Church, 700 East University Drive, (across from Auburn Early Ed.). 334-887-5111. Try the practice of walking meditation or simply sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. The garden and labyrinth are always open and guests are always welcome.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

June/July 2014

Montgomery Ballet www.montgomeryballet.org. Montgomery Performing Arts Montgomery Performing Arts. www.mpaconline.org. 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. Stone Mountain Park Educator Appreciation Week. June 15-20. Stone Mountain Park, Ga. www.stonemountainpark.com. Tennessee Valley Museum of Art Helen Keller Art Show of Alabama. June 2-30. Tennessee Valley Museum of Art, Tuscumbia. www.tvaa.net. Virginia Samford Theatre • “Annie”. July 10-27. Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham. www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org.

Parents Support & Moms Groups

Auburn Mommies, a fun group of moms in the Auburn/ Opelika area that meet weekly for playgroups and Mommy and Me walking twice a week. We also have a Mommies Night Out once a month. Http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ auburnmommiesinalabama/. 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. Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register. La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the 2nd Monday of each month at 6:30 p.m. @ CORNERSTONE Family Chiropractic, Airport Plaza, 323 Airport Road Suite E, Auburn. For more information call Josie at 257-3950. Lee County Autism Support Group meets every other month. Call Julie Brown 887-3903 or Florence Evermom 887-5005. Covenant Presbyterian Church on Shelton Mill Road in Auburn. Main Street Farmer’s Market June 14-October 25. Broad Street, Alexander City. 256329-9227. MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids. New website is www. auburnmoms.com. Moms In Touch. Do you worry about your children? Come experience how you can replace your anxiety and fear with peace and hope by praying with other moms. Moms In Touch International gathers moms together for one hour, once a week, to pray specifically and scripturally for our children and school. Won’t you join with us in prayer for this next generation? Please contact Julia Farrow at julia@cornerstonebuzz.org for information about our local groups. For more information about Moms In Touch International, visit www.MomsInTouch.org. 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.

Mom’s Morning Out

Auburn United Methodist Church, Children’s Day Out Program, every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.–12 noon.

$10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information. Trinity United Methodist Church (Opelika) Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45–12. $15 per child, $5 each additional.

Support Groups

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

Sports

Montgomery Biscuits Baseball June 19, 20, 21, July 4-8, 16-20, 26-30.

Friday, June 20

12th Annual Art in the Gardens Aldridge Gardens, Hoover. www.aldridgegardens.com. Alabama State Games Birmingham. www.alagames.com. Crenshaw County Rodeo Luverne. 334-335-4468. Float-N-Movie, “Dolphin Tale” Samford Pool, Auburn. 8 p.m. City of Auburn Facebook. Slocomb Tomato Festival 334-886-2334. Facebook. FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Friday Night Frog Walk at FDR State Park gastateparks.org/FDRoosevelt. Fantastic Fridays at the Columbus Museum: Curious Moon Puppets www.columbusmuseum.com. Radical Reptile Program at Oxbow Meadows www.facebook.com/CSUOxbowMeadows. Callaway Gardens Farmers Market www.callawaygardens.com. Float-In-Movie SportsPlex Pool, Opelika. 7 p.m. Free to members/$5 per. www.opelika.org. Children’s Matinee, “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs” Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org. Friday On the Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Facebook.

Saturday, June 21

12th Annual Art in the Gardens Aldridge Gardens, Hoover. www.aldridgegardens.com. Alabama State Games Birmingham. www.alagames.com.

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Family Calendar Crenshaw County Rodeo Luverne. 334-335-4468. French Colonial Garrison Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson. www.fttoulousejackson.org. Hydrangea Fest & Flora Photography Workshop Lanark Park, Millbrook. www.alabamawildlife.org. CCCA Blueberry Festival Ashland, Al. www.ccca.us. Alabama Blueberry Festival Brewton. www.alabamablueberryfestival.com. Slocomb Tomato Festival 334-886-2334. Facebook. FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Star Light, Star Bright Astronomy Event at FDR State Park gastateparks.org/FDRoosevelt. Fabulous Fridays and Farmers Market at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Market Days on Broadway www.facebook.com/MarketDaysOnBroadway. Youth Orchestra of Greater Columbus Alumni Concert www.yogc.org. Nature-Themed Storytime at Oxbow Meadows www.facebook.com/CSUOxbowMeadows. Brad Paisley Oak Mountain Amp, B’ham. www.ticketmaster.com. Artypants ‘Make a Mark’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages K-2nd grade. 10-11:30 a.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. stART! ‘Keep It Real’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages 3rd-6th grade. 12:30-2 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. State of Create ‘Keep It Real’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages 7th-12th grade. 1-2:30 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Antiques Roadshow BJCC. 8 a.m. www.bjcc.org. DIY: Tips for Taking Photos of Your Children Like a Pro Presented by Lifestyle and Birth Photographer, Paula Davis and Hosted by East Alabama Birth Village. 6 p.m. www. birthvillage.org. Family Day Music Festival Columbus Civic Center. FREE! 2 p.m. www.columbusciviccenter.org. Forest Ecology Preserve Members’ Fish-n-Fun Day 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve.

Sunday, June 22

12th Annual Art in the Gardens Aldridge Gardens, Hoover. www.aldridgegardens.com. Alabama State Games Birmingham. www.alagames.com. French Colonial Garrison Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson. www.fttoulousejackson.org. Chilton County Peach Festival Clanton. FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Counting Crows with Toad the Wet Sprocket Chastain Park Amp, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com.

Monday, June 23

FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Astronomy Night at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Police Academy Opelika Sportsplex. Ages 6-11 years. $10. 9:30-11:30 a.m. www.opelika.org.

Tuesday, June 24

Tuesday Evening Civil War Twilight Tours at Fort Morgan www.fortmorgan.org.

June/July 2014

Carmike Summer Kids Series, “The Croods” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Summer Swing Concert ‘Dave Potts’ Municipal Park, Opelika. 7 p.m. www.opelika.org. Fire Academy Denson Dr. Parks and Rec. Ages 6-12 years. $15. 8:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. www.opelika.org. Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “Charlie and The Chocolate Factory” at 9 a.m. and “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs” at 11 a.m. National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org. Downtown Opelika Farmer’s Market Downtown Square. 3 - 6 p.m. www.opelika.org.

Wednesday, June 25

Radical Reptile Program at Oxbow Meadows www.facebook.com/CSUOxbowMeadows. Power Services Academy Opelika Sportsplex. Ages 6-11 years. $10. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. www.opelika.org. Kid’s Green Thumb Gardening Covington Rec Center. Ages 5-12 years. $12. 3-4 p.m. www.opelika.org. Silly Science Cinema “Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs 2”. Columbus Public Library. 10 a.m. Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “Charlie and The Chocolate Factory” at 9 a.m. and “Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs” at 11 a.m. National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org. A Little Art Talk with Allyson Comstock: Mozell Benson, QuiltThree Crosses 12 p.m. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Auburn. 6 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Thursday, June 26

FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Carmike Summer Kids Series “The Croods” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. www.carmike.com/ Events/Category/8. Covington Movie Club Opelika Parks and Rec. Ages 6-12 years. $7. 3:30-5 p.m. www.opelika.org. Live Jazz Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 6-8 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Children’s Matinees ‘The Croods’ Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org. Carmike Summer Kids Series “Despicable Me” Carmike Tiger 13. Opelika. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Opelika Film Night at the Depot Lawn “Princess Bride” Train Depot, Opelika. 6 p.m. www.opelika.org. Rub Run Railyard Brewery, Montgomery. 334-356-5412.

Friday, June 27

29th Annual Columbiana Liberty Day Celebration Columbiana. www.cityofcolumbiana.com. 10th Annual Peach Jam Jubilee Clanton City Park. www.peachjamjubilee.com. FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Friday Night Frog Walk at FDR State Park gastateparks.org/FDRoosevelt. Fantastic Fridays at the Columbus Museum Anansi the Spider to Wile E. Coyote. www.columbusmuseum.com. Radical Reptile Program at Oxbow Meadows www.facebook.com/CSUOxbowMeadows. Callaway Gardens Farmers Market www.callawaygardens.com.

Friday Night Splash Samford Pool, Auburn. 6-8 p.m. Night of swimming, cookout, music and more. Free for members; $2 per person. Boys Night Out Covington Rec Center. Ages 7-12 years. $20. 6-9 p.m. www.opelika.org. Children’s Matinee, “The Croods” Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org. Friday On the Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Facebook.

Saturday, June 28

15th Annual Denim & Diamonds Concert Justin Moore and Josh Thompson. Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter.com. MTV’s Joey Dillion Project Get In Shape Charity Walk & Fitness Fun Day Vulcan Park, B’ham. www.crowdrise.com/ projectgetinshapecharitywalk. Independence Day Parade Brundidge. www.brundidgealabama.com. FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Celebrate America at The Rock Ranch www.therockranch.com. Fabulous Fridays and Farmers Market at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Market Days on Broadway www.facebook.com/MarketDaysOnBroadway. Nature-Themed Storytime at Oxbow Meadows www.facebook.com/CSUOxbowMeadows. Young Eagles Day–FREE Airplane Rides for Kids! Columbus Airport. Ages 8-17. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-324-2453. 5th Annual Day In Clay Dean Rd. Ceramics Studio, Auburn. 1-4 p.m. Artypants ‘We Weave’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages K-2nd grade. 10-11:30 a.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. stART! ‘We Weave’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages 3rd-6th grade. 12:30-2 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. State of Create ‘We Weave’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages 7th-12th grade. 1-2:30 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Fabulous Fridays and Farmers Market at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Birmingham Black Rodeo BJCC. 7:30 p.m. www.bjcc.org. Birmingham Heart Walk BJCC. 7:30 a.m. www.bjcc.org. Atlanta Symphony Orchestra: Celebrate America Verizon Wireless Amp, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com. Lowes Build-and-Grown Kid’s Clinics Sheep Drop Game. Opelika Lowes. 10 a.m. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com. Independence Day Celebration at Fort Benning

Sunday, June 29

FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com.

Monday, June 30

FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Astronomy Night at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Essential Oils: Curious or Skeptical? Presented by Holistic Health Coach, Ranid Myers and Hosted by East Alabama Birth Village. 7:30 p.m. www.birthvillage.org.

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Family Calendar Tuesday, July 1

Summer Swing Concerts in the Park Jazz Come Home: Troy University Faculty Jazz Quartet. Municipal Park, Opelika. 7 p.m. Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “Labyrinth” at 9 a.m. and “E.T.” at 11 a.m. National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org. Carmike Summer Kids Series, “Turbo” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Discovery Hike Forest Ecology Preserve, Auburn. 3:30 p.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve. Downtown Opelika Farmer’s Market Downtown Square. 3-6 p.m. www.opelika.org. Patriotic Concert Fundraiser featuring The Montgomery Recreators Presented by the Montgomery S.T.E.P. Foundation.. Frazer United Methodist Church, Montgomery. 7 p.m. www. montgomerystep.org.

Wednesday, July 2

Silly Science Cinema, “Despicable Me 2” Columbus Public Library. 10 a.m. www.columbusmuseum.com. Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “E.T.” at 9 a.m. and “Labyrinth” at 11 a.m. National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org.

Thursday, July 3

Opelika’s Annual Freedom Celebration OHS Track. 6:30 p.m. www.opelika.org/opr. FSU Flying High Circus Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com. Carmike Summer Kids Series, “Turbo” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Carmike Summer Kids Series, “Despicable Me 2” Carmike Tiger 13. Opelika. 10am. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Live Jazz Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Auburn. 6 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Fantastic Fourth Celebration Stone Mountain Park, Ga. www.stonemountainpark.com.

Friday, July 4

Auburn’s Annual 4th of July Celebration Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation and Briggs and Stratton. Duck Samford Stadium. Gates open 6 p.m. Fireworks 9 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/parks. Grand Bay Watermelon Festival Odd Fellow Park, Grand Bay, Al. 251-865-3456. Thunder On the Mountain 2014 Vulcan Park and Museum, Birmingham. www.thunderonthemountainbirmingham.com. Celebrate America Greenville, Al. www.greenville-alabama.com. City of Troy 4th of July Celebration Troy. www.troyal.gov. Lakepoint State Park 4th of July Celebration Eufaula. Friday On the Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Facebook. Wetumpka’s 4th of July Fireworks www.cityofwetumpka.com. 4th of July Blast The Amp, Lake Martin. 8:30 a.m. - 9 p.m. www.lmat.org. 4th Of July Boat Parade Kowaliga Marina and Children’s Harbor, Lake Martin. 10 a.m. www.russellmarine.net. 75th Anniversary Celebration on Independence Day DeSoto State Park. www.alapark.com/DeSotoResort. 31st Sand Mountain Potato Festival Lookout Mountain, Henagar, Al. www.discoverlookoutmountain.com.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

June/July2014

Fourth of July Boat Parade Lakeside Marina, Lake Wedowee. www.lakewedoweelife.com. FSU Flying High Circus Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com. Summer Sunset Music Series Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com. Fantastic Fourth Celebration Stone Mountain Park, Ga. www.stonemountainpark.com. Picnic on the River Riverfront, Montgomery. Free. 6 p.m. www.funinmontgomery.com.

Saturday, July 5

Red, White & Brew 5K Run/Walk Birmingham. www.active.com/birmingham-al. 75th Anniversary Celebration on Independence Day DeSoto State Park. www.alapark.com/DeSotoResort. Hwy 8 SongwriterFest Demopolis, Al. FSU Flying High Circus Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com. Summer Sunset Music Series Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com. Market Days on Broadway Columbus. www.facebook.com/MarketDaysOnBroadway. Arti Gras Russell Crossroads, Lake Martin. www.lmat.org. Home Depot Kids Workshop ‘Build a Bug House’ Home Depot, Opelika. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. Free. www.homedepot.com. Fantastic Fourth Celebration Stone Mountain Park, Ga. www.stonemountainpark.com. Family Fun Night at Eastdale Mall Montgomery. FREE ice skating for kids 10 and under (6-7 p.m.), face painting, and more! Check in at customer service for wrist band. 5-7 p.m. www.eastdale-mall.com/events.

Sunday, July 6

FSU Flying High Circus Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com.

Monday, July 7

Movie Monday Riverfront, Montgomery. 8 p.m. www.funinmontgomery. com Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “Where the Wild Things Are” at 9 a.m. and “Hotel Transylvania” at 11 a.m. National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org. FSU Flying High Circus Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com. Astronomy Night at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Lionel Richie: All the Hits All Night Long Chastain Park Amp, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com. MAX Movie Monday at Riverwalk Amp, Montgomery Free. 6 p.m. www.funinmontgomery.com.

Tuesday, July 8

Goofy Games! Covington Rec Center. Ages 6-12 years. $10. 3 - 4 p.m. www.opelika.org. Summer Swing Concerts in the Park Fedoras. Municipal Park, Opelika. 7 p.m. Adult Rock Camp at Spicer’s Music Auburn. www.spicersmusic.com. Camp Kazoo at Spicer’s Music Auburn. Ages 3-7 years. www.spicersmusic.com. Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “Hotel Transylvania” at 9 a.m. and “Where the Wild Things Are” at 11 a.m. National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org. Carmike Summer Kids Series, “Despicable Me” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8.

Discovery Hike Forest Ecology Preserve, Auburn. 3:30 p.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve. Downtown Opelika Farmer’s Market Downtown Square. 3-6 p.m. www.opelika.org.

Pizza Pizzazz Covington Rec Center. Ages 6-11 years. $10. 3 - 4 p.m. www.opelika.org. Covington Movie Club Covington Rec, Opelika. 3:30 - 5 p.m. $7 fee. Ages 6-12 years. 29th Annual Southern Woodcarving School and Competition Civic Center, Wetumpka. www.centralalwoodcarving.com. Adult Rock Camp at Spicer’s Music Auburn. www.spicersmusic.com. Carmike Summer Kids Series, “Despicable Me” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Carmike Summer Kids Series, “The Nut Job” Carmike Tiger 13. Opelika. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Camp Kazoo at Spicer’s Music Auburn. Ages 3-7 years. www.spicersmusic.com. Live Jazz Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Auburn. 6 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Children’s Matinee, “The Lorax” Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www. capritheatre.org.

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Friday, July 11

Wednesday, July 9

Adult Rock Camp at Spicer’s Music Auburn. www.spicersmusic.com. Silly Science Cinema “Meet the Robinsons”. Columbus Public Library. 10 a.m. www.columbusmuseum.com. A Little Art Talk with Andy Tennant Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Auburn. 6 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Thursday, July 10

Summer Outdoor Movie Series, Frozen Sing-a-long Free! Duck Samford Park, Auburn. 8:30 p.m. City of Auburn Facebook. Rain location: Dean Rd Rec Center. City of Pelham’s Golden Jubilee Verizon Wireless Music Center, Birmingham. www.pelhamonline.com/goldenjubilee/ Friday On the Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. Facebook. 29th Annual Southern Woodcarving School and Competition Civic Center, Wetumpka. www.centralalwoodcarving.com. World Championship Domino Tournament Andalusia Kiwanis Fair Complex. 334-222-2030. Callaway Gardens Farmers Market www.callawaygardens.com. State of Create ‘Cut and Run’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages 7th-12th grade. 1-2:30 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. First Fridays ‘Satin Soul’ Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m. www.eventcenterdowntown.com. First Fridays “Shop Late, Eat Local” Opelika shops will stay open until 8 p.m. www.opelikamainstreet.org. Children’s Matinee, “The Lorax” Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org.

Saturday, July 12

City of Pelham’s Golden Jubilee Verizon Wireless Music Center, Birmingham. www.pelhamonline.com/goldenjubilee/

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Family Calendar Antique Engine & Tractor Show Tannehill State Park, McCalla. www.tannehill.org. 29th Annual Southern Woodcarving School and Competition Civic Center, Wetumpka. www.centralalwoodcarving.com. World Championship Domino Tournament Andalusia Kiwanis Fair Complex. 334-222-2030. FREE No Bully Program at Gracie Barra Columbus. 2 - 4 p.m. www.gbcolumbus.com. Market Days on Broadway Columbus. www.facebook.com/MarketDaysOnBroadway Summer Sunset Music Series Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com. Nature-Themed Storytime at Oxbow Meadows www.oxbow.columbusstate.edu. Second Saturday Columbus Museum. 10 a.m. - 12 p.m. Free. www.columbusmusuem.com. Alabama’s Gun Collectors Summer Gun Show BJCC. www.bjcc.org. Lowes Build-and-Grown Kid’s Clinic, ‘Turbo with Pullback Motor’ Opelika Lowes. 10 a.m. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com. Artypants ‘Mask Yourself’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages K-2nd grade. 10-11:30 a.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. stART! ‘Mask Yourself’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages 3rd-6th grade. 12:30-2 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Second Saturday at Columbus Museum Free admission. www.edu@columbusmuseum.com. Second Saturday: Family Fun Day at the Columbus Museum Georgia. www.columbusmuseum.com. Second Saturday @ Lee County Historical Society Museum Loachapoka. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org. Second Saturday @ Riverfront Park Montgomery. 5-9 p.m. www.funinmontgomery.com. Family Fun Night at Eastdale Mall Montgomery. FREE ice skating for kids 10 and under (6-7 p.m.), face painting, and more! Check in at customer service for wrist band. 5-7 p.m. www.eastdale-mall.com/events. Jokers Wild Comedy Tour Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org.

June/July 2014

Carmike Summer Kids Series, “Despicable Me 2” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Discovery Hike Forest Ecology Preserve, Auburn. 3:30 p.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve. Downtown Opelika Farmer’s Market Downtown Square. 3-6 p.m. www.opelika.org.

Wednesday, July 16

Recycled Art Workshop Denson Drive Rec, Opelika. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. $25 fee. Ages 10-13 years. Silly Science Cinema, “A Bug’s Life” Columbus Public Library. 10 a.m. www.columbusmuseum.com. Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “The Goonies” at 9 a.m. and “Monsters University” at 11 a.m. National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org. A Little Art Talk with Lynn Katz: Christ in Alabama Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Auburn. 6 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Thursday, July 17

29th Annual Southern Woodcarving School and Competition Civic Center, Wetumpka. www.centralalwoodcarving.com. Alabama’s Gun Collectors Summer Gun Show BJCC. www.bjcc.org.

Peter Pan Live! Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter.com. Capital City Shape Notes Concert Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. www.oldalabamatown.com. Camp Kazoo at Spicer’s Music Auburn. Ages 3-7 years. www.spicersmusic.com. Carmike Summer Kids Series, “Despicable Me 2” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Carmike Summer Kids Series, “The LEGO Movie” Carmike Tiger 13. Opelika. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Live Jazz Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Auburn. 6 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Opelika Film Night at the Depot Lawn “Mary Poppins”. Train Depot, Opelika. 6 p.m. www.opelika.org. Children’s Matinee, “Madagascar” Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org. Martina McBride Live Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org.

Monday, July 14

Friday, July 18

Sunday, July 13

Watercolor Workshop Denson Drive Rec, Opelika. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. $25 fee. Ages 10-13 years. Astronomy Night at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. MAX Movie Monday at Riverwalk Amp Montgomery. Free. 6 p.m. www.funinmontgomery.com. Saturday Jam Sessions Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. www. oldalabamatown.com. Bastille Day Fun Run Hosted by Fleet Feet Sports Montgomery. 334-356-5412.

Tuesday, July 15

Junior Bakers Covington Rec, Opelika. 3 - 4:30 p.m. $15 fee. Ages 9-12 years. Summer Swing Concerts in the Park, ‘Crossroads’ Municipal Park, Opelika. 7 p.m. Camp Kazoo at Spicer’s Music Auburn. Ages 3-7 years. www.spicersmusic.com. Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “Monsters University” at 9 a.m. and “The Goonies” at 11 a.m. National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org.

Peter Pan Live! Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter.com. Capital City Shape Notes Concert Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. www.oldalabamatown.com. Summer Float-N-Movie “Happy Feet”. Samford Pool, Auburn. 8:30 p.m. Free with Splash Pass or $2/person. 3D Art Workshop Denson Drive Rec, Opelika. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. $25 fee. Ages 10-13 years. 81st Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island. 251-471-0025. Friday On the Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Facebook. Callaway Gardens Farmers Market www.callawaygardens.com. 31st Annual World Deer Expo BJCC. www.bjcc.org. Ray LaMontagne Verizon Wireless Amp, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com. State of Create ‘Brush It Off’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages 7th-12th grade. 1 - 2:30 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Children’s Matinee, “Madagascar” Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org.

Saturday, July 19

Peter Pan Live! Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter.com. 81st Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island. 251-471-0025. Wetumpka’s River and Blues Music & Arts Show www.riverandblues.net. 31st Annual World Deer Expo BJCC. www.bjcc.org. Animal Enrichment 2014 Montgomery Zoo. www.montgomeryzoo.com. Summer Sunset Music Series at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Nature-Themed Storytime at Oxbow Meadows www.oxbow.columbusstate.edu. Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run Lake Martin. 8:30 a.m. www.lmat.org. 31st Annual World Deer Expo BJCC. www.bjcc.org. Ray LaMontagne BJCC. www.bjcc.org. Artypants ‘Brush It Off’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages K-2nd grade. 10-11:30 a.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. stART! ‘Brush It Off’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages 3rd-6th grade. 12:30-2 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu, Family Fun Night at Eastdale Mall Montgomery. FREE ice skating for kids 10 and under (6-7 p.m.), face painting, and more! Check in at customer service for wrist band. 5-7 p.m. www.eastdale-mall.com/events. SunFest July 19-26. Alexander City. www.alexandercity.org/sunfest.

Sunday, July 20

Peter Pan Live! Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter.com. 81st Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island. 251-471-0025. 31st Annual World Deer Expo BJCC. www.bjcc.org. SunFest July 19-26. Alexander City. www.alexandercity.org/sunfest.

Monday, July 21

Astronomy Night at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. MAX Movie Monday at Riverwalk Amp, Montgomery Free. 6 p.m. www.funinmontgomery.com. Saturday Jam Sessions Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. www. oldalabamatown.com. SunFest July 19-26. Alexander City. www.alexandercity.org/sunfest.

Tuesday, July 22

Wacky Water Games Covington Rec, Opelika. 3-4 p.m. $10 fee. Ages 6-10 years. Summer Swing Concerts in the Park Muse. Municipal Park, Opelika. 7 p.m. Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “The LEGO Movie” at 9 a.m. and “Finding Nemo” at 11 a.m. National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org. Carmike Summer Kids Series “The Nut Job” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Discovery Hike Forest Ecology Preserve, Auburn. 3:30 p.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve. Downtown Opelika Farmer’s Market Downtown Square. 3-6 p.m. www.opelika.org.

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Family Calendar SunFest July 19-26. Alexander City. www.alexandercity.org/sunfest.

Wednesday, July 23

Luke Bryan Tour Oak Mountain Amp, B’ham. www.ticketmaster.com. Silly Science Cinema, “Up” Columbus Public Library. 10 a.m. www.columbusmuseum.com. Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “Finding Nemo” at 9 a.m. and “The LEGO Movie” at 11 a.m. National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org. A Little Art Talk with Marilyn Laufer James Agee & Walker Evans, Let Us Now Praise Famous Men. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Auburn. 6 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. SunFest July 19-26. Alexander City. www.alexandercity.org/sunfest.

Thursday, July 24

Covington Movie Club Covington Rec, Opelika. 3:30-5 p.m. $7 fee. Ages 6-12 years. Messy Madness Covington Rec, Opelika. 3-4 p.m. $10 fee. All ages. Zelda’s Birthday Party Montgomery. www.fitzgeraldmuseum.net. Carmike Summer Kids Series, “The Nut Job” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8 Carmike Summer Kids Series, “Rio” Carmike Tiger 13. Opelika. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8 Luke Bryan, That’s My Kind Of Night Tour 2014 Oak Mountain Amp, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com. Live Jazz Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Auburn. 6 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Children’s Matinee, “The Pirates! Band of Misfits” Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org. SunFest July 19-26. Alexander City. www.alexandercity.org/sunfest.

Friday, July 25

Friday Night Splash Samford Pool. 6-8 p.m. Free with Splash Pass or $2/ person. Back-to-School Bash Covington Rec, Opelika. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Free and all ages. Friday On the Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Facebook. Summerfest The Plains Golf Course, Millbrook. www.cityofmillbrook.org. Callaway Gardens Farmers Market www.callawaygardens.com. State of Create ‘Like a Rock’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages 7th-12th grade. 1-2:30 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Children’s Matinee, “The Pirates! Band of Misfits” Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org. SunFest July 19-26. Alexander City. www.alexandercity.org/sunfest.

Saturday, July 26

American Idol Tour BJCC. www.ticketmaster.com. Hunger Games Survivor Skills Forest Ecology Preserve, Auburn. Ages 9-13 years. 334707-6512. Watermelon Sampling Landmark Park, Dothan. 10 a.m. www.landmarkpark.com.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

June/July 2014

Summer Sunset Music Series at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Market Days on Broadway www.facebook.com/MarketDaysOnBroadway. Nature-Themed Storytime at Oxbow Meadows www.oxbow.columbusstate.edu. Dr Coopers’ 6th Annual Run for Their Lives 5K and 1 Mile www.pcspine.com. Lowes Build-and-Grown Kid’s Clinics Turbotaco Truck. Opelika Lowes. 10 a.m. www.lowesbuildandgrow.com. Artypants ‘Collage College’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages K-2nd grade. 10-11:30 a.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. stART! ‘Collage College’ Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Ages 3rd-6th grade. 12:30-2 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Young Eagles Day–FREE Airplane Rides for Kids! Columbus Airport. Ages 8-17. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-324-2453. American Idol Tour BJCC. www.ticketmaster.com. Family Fun Night at Eastdale Mall, Montgomery FREE ice skating for kids 10 and under (6-7 p.m.), face painting, and more! Check in at customer service for wrist band. 5-7 p.m. www.eastdale-mall.com/events. Celtic Traditions School of Irish Dance Trial Class and Registration 12:00-1:30pm. 2705 Frederick Rd Ste 3, Opelika. 705-0303. SunFest July 19-26. Alexander City. www.alexandercity.org/sunfest.

Sunday, July 27 Steely Dan BJCC. www.bjcc.org.

Monday, July 28

Astronomy Night at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. MAX Movie Monday at Riverwalk Amp, Montgomery Free. 6 p.m. www.funinmontgomery.com. Saturday Jam Sessions Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. www. oldalabamatown.com. Nix Dance Studio Open House and Registration 3:00-6:00pm. 850 Stage Rd, Auburn. 887-7250.

Tuesday, July 29

Summer Swing Concerts in the Park Fred Jones. Municipal Park, Opelika. 7 p.m. Nix Dance Studio Open House and Registration 4:00-6:00pm. 850 Stage Rd, Auburn. 887-7250. Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “Frozen” at 9 a.m. and “Wreck It Ralph” at 11 a.m. National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org. Carmike Summer Kids Series “The LEGO Movie” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Auburn Arena Events Open House. Auburn University Arena 4-7 p.m. (334) 844-8875. Discovery Hike Forest Ecology Preserve, Auburn. 3:30 p.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve. Downtown Opelika Farmer’s Market Downtown Square. 3-6 p.m. www.opelika.org.

Wednesday, July 30

Adventure Day Covington Rec, Opelika. 3-4 p.m. $10 fee. Ages 5-12 years. Silly Science Cinema “The LEGO Movie” Columbus Public Library. 10 a.m. www.columbusmuseum.com. Summer 2014 Free Family Film Fest “Wreck It Ralph” at 9 a.m. and “Frozen” at 11 a.m.

National Infantry Museum, Columbus. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org. A Little Art Talk with Jessye McDowell Leonora Carrington. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Auburn. 6 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Thursday, July 31

FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. Carmike Summer Kids Series “The LEGO Movie” Carmike Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Carmike Summer Kids Series “Mr. Peabody” Carmike Tiger 13. Opelika. 10 a.m. $4/admission, popcorn, drink. www.carmike.com/Events/Category/8. Live Jazz Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. Auburn. 6 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Children’s Matinees “Puss in Boots” Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org.

Looking ahead... July 31-August 1- FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com. July 31-August 1- Children’s Matinees “Puss in Boots” Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org. August 1- Summer Outdoor Movie: “The Blind Side” Duck Samford Park, Auburn. Free! 8:30 p.m. 501-2930. August 1- 5th Annual Farewell Summer Block Party and Outdoor Summer Movie Town Creek Park, Auburn. 6-10 p.m. Free! 501-2930. August 2- SportsPlex Tri for Kids Opelika. www.sportsplextrikids.com. August 10-16- Auburn Panhellenic Recruitment 2014 Auburn Campus. www.auburn.edu. August 13-23- Auburn University Welcome Week www.auburn.edu. August 24- Open Auditions for 2014 Production of “The Nutcracker” Sponsored by East Alabama Community Ballet. Nix Dance Studio, Auburn. 2-5 p.m. www.eacballet.com. August 22- End of Summer Luau Samford Pool, Auburn. 6-8 p.m. August 15- Float-N-Movie “Surf’s Up” Samford Pool. 8:30 p.m. Free with Splash Pass or $2/ person. August 1- Back-to-School Ice Cream Social Covington Rec, Opelika. 1-2 p.m. $5 fee. Ages 5-12 years. August 5- Summer Swing Concerts in the Park ‘Back-to-School Bash’ Municipal Park, Opelika. 7 p.m. August 16-17- 4th Annual Rumble By the River Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter.org. August 18- Partner Masseuse: Keep Your Pregnant Other Half Comfortable Presented by Taylor Hopkins, Opelika Massage Therapy Center and Hosted by East Alabama Birth Village. www.birthvillage.org.

Please send your calendar events to kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com by the 5th of the month. It’s FREE! www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Adoption Books for Kids Q. My husband and I recently adopted a preschool aged child. It’s hard to find age appropriate adoption books that aren’t geared toward the more traditional adoption narrative. We’d like a book that helps us talk about her adoption that wasn’t because we “waited and waited and hoped and hoped,” but was, rather, an emergency family foster placement? Do you know of any? A. You’re on the right

track! It is so important to give your daughter age appropriate information about her life story, and the traditional adoption stories may confuse her given her unique situation. That being said, there are a few books out there that might be able to help. One that is often used by therapists, especially when dealing with older child adoptions or foster care situations, is All About Adoption: How Families Are Made & How Kids Feel About It. This book is written by clinical psychologists and includes lots of information on different adoption scenarios. To me, it’s a must read. Other child geared stories about adoption that are fairly general include Rosie’s Family: An Adoption Story and A Mother for Choco. If you don’t have these already, they make for great bedtime reading with an adopted child. Their simple stories are a great starting point for deeper family discussions, especially as your little one grows up. Another favorite tip of mine is to make your own book that is specific to your child and their unique situation. You can make a book these days just about anywhere there is a photo center or at multiple sites online, like Snapfish or Shutterfly. You can write the narrative to be as specific to your child as you want to, including information about their life before their adoption, your life before children, and then the life that you now have

together as a family. Pictures in the book can be actual pictures of your child, or you can use stock photos that are often available online at no charge. I like to suggest this topic for any situation where a book would be a useful, but there just isn’t one available that works. For example, a personalized book can often help a child cope with situations like the death of a loved one, divorce, a move, changing schools, upcoming surgery, illness, or just about any other difficulty you can think of. Most people think picture books are only to celebrate good memories, like family vacations, birthday parties,

or school days. But really, they can be just as useful to teach your child about their life story or to communicate with them during difficult circumstances. Your child will better understand and be more likely to enjoy a personalized story, and the book will surely be a good start to more in-depth discussions. And with kids, that’s always a plus! If you’ve got a question that you’d like to see featured in a future issue, submit your idea or question to polly@childpsychmom.com. I look forward to hearing from you! Dr. Polly Dunn received her Ph.D. from Auburn University in 1999. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and currently serves as the Director of the Auburn University Psychological Services Center, a position she has held for over ten years. Dr. Dunn is also the founder of www.ChildPsychMom.com where she blogs about what works and what doesn’t in her hectic life as a child psychologist, wife, and mom of four.

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The Fault in Our Stars

How to Train Your Dragon 2

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: B Sexual Content: CLanguage: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C The MPAA has rated The Fault in Our Stars is rated PG-13 for thematic elements, some sexuality and brief strong language. Shailene Woodley has grabbed two big title roles this year. After portraying a feisty societal outsider in the movie Divergent, Woodley takes on a very different character in The Fault in Our Stars. She plays Hazel Grace Lancaster, a teen that wants to be like any other adolescent dealing with homework and worrying about a date for prom. But Hazel is not like every other teen. She has cancer. The cancer has settled in her lungs, forcing her to wear a nasal cannula and drag around a portable oxygen tank. For now, the experimental drug she is taking seems to be working. At least it is delaying her death. In the meantime, Hazel’s mother (Laura Dern) worries about her daughter’s emotional state and wants her to attend a cancer support group. Reluctantly, Hazel attends a meeting for the sake of her mother. There she bumps into newcomer Gus Waters (Ansel Elgort). He lost his leg to cancer but has come to the meeting to support his friend Isaac (Nat Wolff) who is about to undergo surgery to remove his second eye. In spite of his own condition, Gus’s gregarious personality makes him stand out in the crowd. Considering the bleak forecast for her future, Hazel doesn’t believe in forming long-term relationships. But Gus sees things differently. He wants to pack in every human experience he can before he dies. The film’s contrived premise (based on the best-selling book of the same title) teeters on the edge of becoming overly sentimental even as it encourages viewers to embrace life. While there’s no question the tragic circumstances these young lovers find themselves in are meant to induce tears, Woodley and Elgort do have moments on film that are remarkably truthful. Unfortunately it’s hard to maintain that for the entire movie when an untimely death is inevitable. Some of the stronger scenes involve the teens’ parents. They are wrapped up in the care of their children, trying to find a balance between protecting without coddling, and allowing their youth to lead as normal of a life as possible. For many fans of the novel, this movie will be a decent adaptation. But that doesn’t mean the screenplay is without some content concerns. The scene in which Gus loses his virginity to Hazel isn’t just a quick fade to black. While it is played to be both tender and slightly awkward, the depiction includes male chest and female back nudity. There is also a sense that life’s hugest tragedy would be to die a virgin. The script also contains more than a smattering of profanities, a strong sexual expletive and vulgar language. The Fault in Our Stars may be this generation’s version of Love Story. Yet just as that 1970’s film promoted some falsities -- like love means you never have to say your sorry -- this movie’s urging to live life to the fullest might be a little faulty when it includes an excuse for teen sex.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Language: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA has rated How to Train Your Dragon PG for adventure action and some mild rude humor. It’s not often that a sequel lives up to the original film but How to Train Your Dragon 2 is one that does. And banking on the success of this movie, Dreamworks has already announced a release date in 2016 for How to Train Your Dragon 3. Gerard Butler voices Stoick, the chief of a Viking village on the remote and rocky island of Berk. Big, burly and blustering, he rules with a heavy but compassionate hand. In the past, his villagers were plagued by dragons that swooped down and made a quick lunch of the inhabitants’ sheep. Luckily Stoick’s son Hiccup (voice by Jay Baruchel) put an end to the trouble when he learned how to train the dragons to work with the people instead of against them. Since then life has been pretty harmonious for the seafaring pirates. Now with the dragon situation remedied, Stoick is anxious for his son to assume leadership of the town. Yet the scrawny and sensitive Hiccup worries he will never live up to his father’s expectations. As well, he is preoccupied with mapping out the uncharted lands around their island. One day, after crash-landing on a previously unexplored landmass, Hiccup and his dragon Toothless discover a secret world populated by hundreds of dragons. Even more unexpected is the woman who has made it her mission to protect the beasts from Drago, an evil dragon hunter (voice of Djimon Hounsou). He intends to enslave the flying creatures. However Valka (voice of Cate Blanchett) also has a secret she’s been keeping from Hiccup. The revelation, the ensuing battle with the dragon hunters and Hiccup’s feelings of inadequacy make this story better suited for a slightly older audience. Hiccup has grown up since his first adventure ended five years ago and the subject matter in this script reflects that. Instead of thinking girls are yucky, Hiccup and Astrid (America Ferrera) share a kiss or two. And a couple of different boys have gone soft in the head for Ruffnut (voice of Kristen Wiig) -- though it is hard to know what they see in her. Battle scenes between gigantic dragons might be a little scary for very young viewers. Nevertheless, this film is packed with plenty of other slapstick comedy and sight gags to keep most kids entertained. And for adults, the animation is incredible. Still the visuals are only part of this film’s appeal. While it may seem obvious, every child eventually has to find his or her way in the world independent of parental expectations. And that is a dilemma for Hiccup who is anything but a typical Viking. Luckily for him, there is more than one way to lead a village.

What Parents need to know about How to Train a Dragon 2...

Violence: Characters engage in rough and tumble activities with some pushing, punching and other none graphic violence. Animals and humans are captured and beaten. Explosions cause a house to start on fire threatening the people and animals inside. A dragon nearly drowns after being forced out of the air. Some scary characters are shown. Characters are threatened and face perilous situations. Dragons are shot with darts. Characters fight with weapons. Two large dragons fight one another. A man is killed during battle. Other deaths are briefly shown. Some brief depictions of blood are shown. Sexual Content: Couples kiss on several occasions. A girl makes some suggestive comments and ogles a man before trying to get his attention. A gay character comes out with a brief and highly veiled comment. Language: The script contains infrequent mild profanities and name-calling.

What Parents need to know about The Fault in Our Stars...

Violence: A character throws and breaks things while dealing with his anger over being dumped. Characters throw eggs at a car in an act of revenge. Sexual Content: A character passionately kisses his girlfriend in public and then roughly fondles her breasts. He later makes a comment about the size of a woman’s breast. A mother questions her daughter about herpes. A young man laments he is still a virgin. Later a teenaged, unmarried couple engages in sex with some chest and back nudity shown. Language: The script contains a strong sexual expletive, some vulgar expressions, crude comments, profanities and numerous terms of Deity. Alcohol / Drug Use: A character frequently holds an unlit cigarette between his lips. Teens drink champagne. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2014

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Depending on your child’s vaccination history, certain vaccines may be needed. Ask your healthcare provider about the following vaccinations for your child: Ages 4-6

Ages 16 and older

DTap • Polio • MMR--2nd Dose • Varicella--2nd Dose

• Meningococcal booster • Varicella--If your child has not had the first dose by age 13, two doses are needed. • HepB--Recommended if your child has not had the shots. Three doses are needed. • MMR--If your child has not had the first dose, two doses are needed.

•

Ages 11-12 • Tdap--Required • HPV--Recommended for boys and girls to prevent most genital warts and cervical cancers as well as some other cancers. This is a 3-dose series. • Meningococcal--1st dose • Varicella--If your child has not had the first dose by age 13, two doses are needed.

Flu vaccines are recommended for all children over six months of age and will be available beginning in the Fall.

For more information, go to

adph.org or download the free adph app.