Auburn Opelika Parents July 2020 by KeepSharing

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July2020 24

Volume 11 Number 5

Columns 4

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Co-Parenting Survival Advice to help make divorce a little easier for you and your children.

Common Sense Media Press play on podcasts to enhance summer learning.

Kids Health Watch sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

26 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Dave Says

Making the Move

Four ideas to ease the transition for your kids.

Newcomers Guide

Our top picks to help your family connect with our community.

Dave Ramsey

Departments 6

On The Cover Kendon and Angie Kuo, born and raised in California, just celebrated ten years of calling Auburn their home sweet home. Kendon teaches at the Auburn University veterinary school and Angie stays home with their two kids, Emmy (5) and Jonah (3). They love to fly to California to visit family, find new hiking trails, and learn about the birds and other critters that they find in their backyard. Emmy and Jonah are excited to attend the Woodland Wonders nature preschool together starting in the fall.

Bits and Pieces 10

School Bits 36

Family Calendar

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Publisher’sNote If you are new to our area, let me be the first to welcome you to Auburn and Opelika! You have found a wonderful community to now call home. There are so many exciting places for your family to explore and many local business to check out. From schools, shops, restaurants and churches, our area has the best of the best to offer. If you are overwhelmed with where to begin, you’ve come to the right place! This month’s magazine is our Annual Newcomer’s Guide. Take a moment to explore all the featured articles, local school news, our monthly calendar and, of course, the guide for newcomers. In it you can find places to play, places to learn, places to grow and much more. From area parks and dining venues to pediatric doctors and private schools, this is a great place to start learning about your new hometown. Now that you are a little better acquainted with where to start to get your family settled into East Alabama, let’s talk about ways to help the kids adjust to their new home, new house and new neighborhood. Making a move to a new home or new community can be challenging for the whole family, especially during our current social distancing lifestyle. Kids can find themselves having mixed feelings about it. They have just left a house that was security for them, said goodbye to friends and their schools, and are now faced with a new school this fall, making new friends and embracing a new home and neighborhood. In the feature article, Making the Move: Easing the Transition for Kids, the author gives some great advice to consider when helping your children ease into their new reality. With kids, maintaining a sense of routine similar to that in your previous home is one of the best ways to create normalcy right away. Children thrive on structure and predictability in their day. Try keeping their bedtime routine the same. This can help them feel secure in the new house and help with a smoother transition. Another great idea is to meet neighbors and help them make friends before the school year starts. This will be challenging while trying to keep at a safe social distance. Maybe meet a few kids at the neighborhood pool or the park? Or, check out some of the local summer day camps. Kreher Preserve & Nature Center is hosting outdoor nature camps this month. You can explore the preserve and meet new friends, all while social distancing in the great outdoors. Another camp to try is at AR Workshop Auburn. This unique, hands-on art class might be just what your kids need. They can explore their creativity and meet new friends too. A few familiar faces, on the first day of school, can make a huge difference when walking into a new school this fall. We are excited you have chosen East Alabama as your new home and hope you love it here as much as we do. The Auburn and Opelika area prides itself on small town hospitality with a strong sense of community. From one parent to another, get immersed, get to exploring and plant your roots here on The Plains.

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

Auburn Opelika Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher Kendra Sumner Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Rian Anglin, MD Sarah Lyons Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Laura Reagan-Porras Dave Ramsey Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Simple Joy Photography www.simplejoyphoto.com

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

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 475 Bennington Ct, Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2020 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Your Kids Are Always Watching This month we are introducing a guest columnist, Justin Martin – the 18yo son of Sonia Martin. Justin is a freshman at Auburn University and will be seeking a degree in social work before moving on to law school. He has apparently learned a thing or two by listening to his mother…

Everyone has had the moment wherein all day you have been looking forward to something, and it gets swiped away from you right underneath your nose. It could be anything from an event you were attending that got spoiled by a babysitter who flaked, someone eating the last bit of dinner you were hoping to have for leftovers, or even something as trivial as a favorite spot on the couch at the end of the night. For me, it was late at night, and I had just gotten back from working a long shift in 90-degree heat at my local Chick-Fil-A. Nothing sounded better than unwinding with a cold bowl of my favorite chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream. I told each and every one of my brothers to save some for when I get home, so I was feeling pretty good when I opened the door to the freezer. But then, disaster. As I began to search, I discovered that there was no ice cream, and slowly, a creeping feeling of dread and despair fell upon me. OK - maybe not the dramatic, hopeless, despair I’m describing - but you get the idea.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

Imagine this had happened to you instead. Let’s take the leftovers example: You get home from a long day at work and they are gone – so you get back in your car, drive to town and are about to dig into your favorite fast food spot, only to discover that the restaurant has forgotten your order. How do you go from there? Do you berate the restaurant for forgetting the order? Do you get upset and take it out on others? Do you just go back out again and re-order? Instead of immediately lashing out and getting upset at the situation, consider the impact this could have on your child who is certainly watching (whether you know it or not). The way you react to a bad circumstance has a direct effect on your child’s future. Your reactions, as a parent, are instrumental in determining and shaping your child’s future reaction to these sorts of scenarios. Whether it be how you talk to strangers at the supermarket, the way you treat your family members, or even your own table manners, it is important to understand that the way you carry yourself is key in how your child develops in the future. You simply have to realize the lasting impact of the decisions you make and how you engage with and react to those around you – whether good or bad. The important

standards you teach your children like saying thank you, shaking hands (well, I guess not right now), looking others in the eye, and treating others with respect under any circumstances are something you want them to carry with them for the rest of their lives. Though certainly children and young adults have autonomy and can, and sometimes do, choose to go a different route – that doesn’t negate the impact you have. If you choose to side with rage and get upset over everyday stressors, chances are your son or daughter will act the same way in the future. Choosing a peaceful response, one that demonstrates key values like patience, respect, and kindness are important to ensuring that your child can look up to you as someone they want to be like when they grow up. And, for the love, please do not eat the last of the ice cream... it just isn’t fair. Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.

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Family Discovery Hike: Ferns

Join our guides, at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center on July 14 for an educational adventure as you and your children take in the many sights and sounds of the Nature Center. Discovery Hikes offer excellent opportunities to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Discovery Hikes are for families with children ages 5 to 12 and are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Each month features a new seasonal theme. Groups meet at the pavilion. www.auburn.edu/preserve

2020 Alabama Sales Tax Holiday

Alabama will hold its 15th annual sales tax holiday, beginning Friday, July 17 at 12:01 a.m. and ending Sunday, July 19 at 12 midnight, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers and clothing free of state sales tax. Local sales tax may apply. For an extensive list, www.revenue.alabama. gov. For more information, contact us 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., CST Monday through Friday 334-242-1490 or 866-576-6531.

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Cheers on the Corner

July 24, Downtown Auburn. 6:00-10:00 PM. Each of the stops along the way will provide you with a savory bite representative of the flavors of downtown Auburn. You will also receive a complimentary souvenir glass. Corporate tents are available. Tickets and tent sponsorships will be available to purchase through our website, downtownauburnonline.com. To learn more or volunteer, please email auburnmerchants@gmail.com.

4th of July at The Amp, Lake Martin

As we social distance, tickets are limited so get yours now. Then, find your spot on the grassy lawn and soon the earth will shake, and the sky over The AMP will burst into a thousand different colors. Since 2001, Russell Lands On Lake Martin has hosted the Southeast’s Largest Fireworks Show over Lake Martin, and this year will be no different! Gates open at 5:00 PM, live entertainment from The Bank Walkers and The Vegabonds and then Fireworks start at 9:00 PM. www.theamponlakemartin.com

Summer Animal Enrichment Day

Join The Montgomery Zoo on July 18 for the Summer Animal Enrichment Day. From zoo animals to our pets at home and even including us, we all need enrichment. A chance to smell a new scent. Taste a new favor. Play a new game or figure out a puzzle. Enrichment is an effort to tap into and stimulate our basic five senses: touch, sight, smell, taste and hearing. The result is to stimulate behaviors resembling those for that species in the wild. It is a lot of trial and error, but it is always fun. Regular admission fee to enter zoo; however, there is no additional fee to view and participate in the Animal Enrichment Day activities. www.montgomeryzoo.com Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

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Science on Saturday: Medicinal Plants

July 18, immerse yourself in the art of traditional herbalism with our experts and guest speaker, Tia Gonzales – horticulturist and botanist. You’ll become familiar with some of the most common edible and medicinal wayside plants. Come and learn to forage! This is a one-hour, lecture-style program that will provide the opportunity to see and interact with live animals. Admission is $5 ($4 for members); children 3 and under are free. Canceled in the event of rain. Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. www.auburn.edu/preserve

Fireworks, Food, Family, & Fun!

The Market at Ag Heritage Park

Callaway Gardens, Friday, July 3 – Sunday, July 5. It’s an allout, all-American celebration! At Callaway Resort & Gardens, the weekend festivities begin early and last well into the night. Enjoy outdoor adventures, beach and water sports, contests, live music, delicious food and drink specials, circus performances, or just take it all in and relax on the shore. End each evening with a bang and experience our spectacular Annual Fireworks Extravaganza and make it a weekend to remember. Did you know? Your Admission ticket gains you access to the beach & entire gardens all-day long! www.callawaygardens.com

The Market is an open-air, growers-only farmers market that operates each Thursday at Ag Heritage Park on the Auburn University campus. Hosted by the College of Agriculture, The Market features area vendors offering fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, herbs, ornamental plants and cut flowers as well as locally produced jams and jellies, baked goods, soaps, honey, goat cheese and more. Upcoming dates are July 2, 9, 16, 23 and 30. 334.703.3232

1452 Opelika Road 334.502.0200

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Keep Your Student Athlete Safe! Encouraging our children to be physically active is an important part of teaching them to maintain a healthy lifestyle, but as youth sports have become more competitive and year-round sports participation has been encouraged, the rate of injury to young athletes has grown significantly. Here are a few ways to help keep your young athletes healthy: Get a check-up. Each year every child should have a well-child check up with his/ her physician. At this visit, the physician will review your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth and development and perform a detailed physical exam. Please make sure to discuss any previous injuries, concussions, and patient or family history of respiratory or cardiac concerns at this visit. This will help you and your physician determine which sports may be the best fit for your child. Gradually build up stamina and strength. The ability to fully participate in vigorous physical activity does not develop spontaneously. Failure to condition prior to sports participation is one of the biggest contributors to risk of injury in young athletes. Maintaining cardiovascular endurance during the off season by continuing to walk or jog several days of the week will make the transition into a sport easier. Also, if your child is considering starting a new sport,

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

encourage them to start training several weeks before the season begins. Contact the coach and ask for tips to help your child prepare. Remember to start gradually and build up slowly over time. Do not increase the duration or intensity of activity by more than 10% each week. Warming up, stretching, and cooling down are just as important as the actual participation. Warming up allows muscles to become more limber and increases blood flow to important muscle groups. Active stretching, meaning stretching through a range of motion, will improve flexibility and limit muscle sprains/stains. Cooling down allows the muscles to begin to recover and to heal. Stay hydrated and eat healthy foods. Processed foods, preservatives, and concentrated sugars have a negative effect on metabolism and athletic performance. Avoid artificial sweeteners and artificial ingredients. Healthy fruits and vegetables, healthy oils like coconut oil, and protein such as those from nuts or lean meats are necessary fuels for all athletes. Young athletes should drink mostly water during physical activity. For activities that last longer than 1 hour and are high intensity or occur during hot weather, I recommend 4 ounces of a sports drink per hour in addition to water.

Take any injury seriously. If something hurts, ask your child to stop immediately and rest. If the pain subsides, then allow him/her to restart exercise gradually. If pain recurs, do not allow your child to exercise for 48-72 hours. If pain persists after this period of rest, seek care for your child. Of course, if pain is severe or other worrisome signs occur, like swelling or bruising, then seek care right away. REST! Maintaining glycogen stores and allowing muscles to heal and recover is critical to continued athletic improvement and performance. Children should have at least 2 days a week without structured physical activity. After completing a competitive season of sports, young athletes should be allowed 2-3 months to rest before beginning a new sport or season. Hopefully, with these tips, you can keep your athlete healthy this season and for many more to come. Dr. Rian Anglin attended Auburn University were she graduated summa cum laude with a BS in Molecular Biology. Despite her strong allegiance to Auburn, Dr. Anglin graduated from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 2007 with her MD. Her passions in practice include promoting early childhood literacy, reducing toxic stress in childhood, and improving the practice of pediatric medicine through office based research. She resides in Auburn with her husband and their two sons.

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Drake Middle Schooler Receives CIA Award

We are so proud of JyLeah Fitch for receiving the Character in Action award! She represents a great leader of Drake Middle School.

Autauga County Schools

Opelika City Schools Online Registration Open

Online registration for the 2020-2021 school year is open on each OCS school website. We are asking that parents of all students in grades K-12 complete the online form by July 15. This online process will take the place of the student information packet filled out during the first week of school. If you prefer to submit your registration documents in person, our schools are open during the summer but have limited staff. Please call the school before you go to make sure the appropriate staff is available. If you have any questions about identifying school zones or the registration process, email us at registration@opelikaschools.org

Auburn City Schools Kindergarten Registration Children turning 5 years old on or before September1 can register now for ACS Kindergarten.

Cary Woods Student Places in Statewide Poster Contest

Congratulations to second grader, Ava Miranda for winning the School Counseling Poster Contest. Avaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s poster was chosen as the CWES first place winner in February. Ava just recently learned that her work was also chosen as the third-place winner in the statewide contest. Congratulations, Ava! We are so proud of your hard work and creativity.

Auburn HS All-Stars

Loving our students and their families means more than supporting just their instructional and academic needs. Thank you to our community partners and the ACS Child Nutrition Program for another week of shared nutrition.

Thank you, Northside Intermediate School Heroes!

Congratulations to our Rising Auburn High School Seniors Anna Kelly (#47) Camilla Earles (#77) and Storm Reif (#2) for being selected by the AHSAA as an AllStar. Although this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s game has been canceled due to COVID-19 they were named and recognized as players for the South Team. Coach Bill Ferguson was also selected as the head coach of the Girls AllStar South Team. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

Auburn City Schools Supports Nutritional Needs of Students

This crew of Super Heroes takes incredible care of all the Northside students and staff! We appreciate all of these Heroes going the extra mile for all of us. HUGE SHOUTOUT to the best of the best!

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Congratulations Auburn High School 2020/2021 FFA Officers

Opelika High School 2020 Graduation Ceremony

Celie Streetman, President; Jonathan Parten, VP; Sarah Smith, VP; Alli Johndorw, Secretary; Julian Riles, Treasurer; Gabe Gardner, Reporter; Hudson Draughon, Sentinel; Jackson Riles, Historian; Jack Cockerham, Chaplain. We are looking forward to our best year yet! Be sure to join FFA this fall and become a part of the AHS Ag family.

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Autauga County Schools

Cary Woods Elementary Construction Update

Auburn City Schools is proud of the progress at Cary Woods Elementary School as it pertains to the addition of facilities. Here are some of the highlights from the CWE campus: • Has a design that includes renovations and continued use of the existing multipurpose room/cafeteria and kitchen/food preparation facility. • A new 64,000 square foot two-story facility that includes new classrooms, a media center, resource classrooms, an administrative office, and storm shelter. • A new playfield and playground equipment. • Separate driveways for bus and car transportation with additional parking. • Will continue to serve as a K-2 facility with a feeder pattern to Pick Elementary. • Anticipated occupancy in August 2020 with final project completion set for spring 2021.

Two Auburn Teachers Named Finalists in Alabama Teacher of the Year Competition

Auburn City Schools is proud of Kathryn Knorr and Jessica Bowlin for both being selected as finalists in the 2020-2021 Alabama Teacher of the Year competition, one of the state’s oldest and most esteemed awards programs! This year’s “Sweet 16” finalists emerged from a group of more than 140 highly-skilled educators from each district across the state. Representing District Two in both the elementary and secondary categories for this prestigious honor, Knorr (Ogletree Elementary) and Bowlin (Auburn High School) have proven their ability to reach students in the classroom and to engage families to support student achievement at the highest levels. The pool of outstanding educators will be narrowed down to the top four, and the 2020-2021 Alabama Teacher of the Year will be announced in August. The overall winner will spend the majority of the school year serving as a full-time ambassador for education and the teaching profession as well as presenting workshops to various groups and participating on the national level. We celebrate Kathryn and Jessica! ACS is proud to have two candidates in the Alabama Teacher of the Year competition.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

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Chambers Academy Appreciates First Responders Chambers Academy Girls Athletics came together and gathered some snacks to take to the Lafayette Police and Fire departments. The initiative was led by rising senior Brandalon Rombokas. All girls participated by bringing in blue and red snacks and then delivered them after workouts Monday morning. CA appreciates all the work our first responders do to help our communities.

Lee-Scott Academy Welcomes New Counselor

Lee-Scott Academy is excited to welcome Mrs. Sherri Rainer to the staff as our College and Career Counselor. She served most recently as the counselor at Seacoast Collegiate High School in Santa Rosa Beach, Florida in addition to prior serving in Auburn City Schools for 14 years. Mrs. Rainer earned a Master of Education degree in School Counseling from Auburn University and a Master of Arts in Christian Education from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Louisville, Kentucky. Her previous years in service with churches in Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ministry was a natural segue into the field of school counseling. She is passionate about helping students and parents on their path to prepare for college and career decisions, and is eager to begin working with our 9th - 12th grade students this summer to ensure their success. She loves caring for her family and friends, gardening, and strength training. Mrs. Rainer and her husband, Ken, are empty nesters with adult children who reside in Auburn, Atlanta, and Knoxville. Welcome to the LSA family, Mrs. Rainer!

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Carver Primary School Teacher Wins Golden Apple Award

Congratulations to Laken Dennis, 2nd grade teacher Carver Primary School, on winning the Kinetic Credit Union Golden Apple Award! We are proud of you!

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Autauga County Schools

Drake Middle School Construction Update

Auburn City Schools is proud of the progress at J. F. Drake Middle School as it pertains to the addition of facilities in phases over multiple years. Here are some of the highlights from the current phase at the DMS campus: • Approximately 50,000 square-foot addition complete with new classrooms, special education facilities, a media center, administrative offices, and storm shelter. • New playfields for physical education and extracurricular activities. • A design that incorporates a new circular driveway off of North Donahue Drive with parking at the front entry. • A new address effective July 1, 2020: 655 North Donahue. • Anticipated occupancy in August 2020. • The final phase of this project will include a 22,000 square-foot addition containing art and music classrooms, resource rooms,

a multipurpose room/cafeteria and a kitchen/food preparation facility as well as a new bus transportation pickup/drop-off location with a canopy. Once complete this campus will continue to serve all 6th graders attending Auburn City Schools.

Pick Elementary PRIDE

Dear Pick Leaders, Thank you for working hard, pushing through and showing your EXCELLENCE *LEADERSHIP*PRIDE each and every day! Happy Summer to our Village on the Hill! We love you! P*R*I*D*E I’ve got Pick Pride in ME!

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

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Lee-Scott Academy wishes to thank...

• The parents of the class of 2020 for your patience and understanding as we worked out details to celebrate your students. Thank you for sharing them with us! We will miss those of you graduating alongside your student and wish your family all the best. You will always be a Warrior! • Our administration, faculty, and staff who worked daily to ensure graduation was special and came together seamlessly. • The Radio Alabama Sports and The Lee-Scott Sports Network for live streaming the graduation ceremony for our families. • Steve Sparks and the staff of May Refrigeration for making sure our HVAC units were serviced and maintained throughout the ceremony to keep the facility cool. • The staff at Auburn Audio for their expertise in making sure our audio went off with no issues. • The PTO for their funding of the flowers, and to senior moms Kelli Ketchum and Carmen Ennis for their time and talents to decorate the lobby and stage. • To LSA alum and senior parent Barry Whatley and his team at Craftsmaster Printers for assisting with the layout and printing of the graduation programs. • And most importantly THANK YOU to the class of 2020 for your leadership, love, and legacy you have left at Lee-Scott Academy! You are forever Warriors and we cannot wait to hear from you as you begin this new chapter and make a difference in our community, on the college campus you attend, and in this world!

Auburn HS Student Named Winner of 2020 Superintendent’s Award

Dr. Cristen Herring selected John Boles to receive the 2020 ACS CTE Superintendent’s Award. John has been actively involved in the Auburn High School Precision Machining program since his sophomore year. He has excelled in his coursework, taking all secondary program offerings at AHS and three Machining dual enrollment courses through our partnership with Southern Union State Community College. With a desire for excellence, John has proven proficient in two different NIMS credentials: Measurement, Materials & Safety and Turning Operations: Turning Between Centers. John works closely with AHS's Mr. Mike Brogan to manage the fundraising efforts and social media for the Machining program, has an excellent GPA, and is a model spokesman for our CTE programs.

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Autauga County SchoolsSigns Letter of Intent Chambers Student with Faulkner University

Chambers Academy is pleased to announce that Jake Waldrop officially signed a letter of intent, taking the next step in his career to Faulkner University in Montgomery next fall. Jake will be joining the Eagles as a member of their football program, having enjoyed a successful high school career at Chambers Academy. Jake is the son of Mack and Jamie Waldrop of LaFayette. Jake maintained an excellent numeric GPA during his high school career with an overall 94.41 average while completing a college prep diploma track. Overall, his GPA for four years of high school classes at CA was a 3.82 as a student-athlete. Additionally, Jake earned five letters going back to eighth grade as a member of the varsity football team at CA. He made his mark on the offensive line as a mainstay at offensive tackle in the Rebels Wing T offense. During his senior year, Jake’s leadership was recognized when he was named one of the Rebels team captains for the football team. Jake’s example for his peers was evident in both his work on the field as well as in his academics where he too excelled. Jake also served in CA’s BETA Club for academic accomplishments as a three year member during high school. In addition to football, Jake also earned three varsity letters at CA as a member of the boys’ basketball team which finished as the state runner-up in 2020. CA Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Jason Allen, noted that Jake had been selected as an AISA All Star Football player having played for AISA’s West Team at the state’s all-star game last December at the Cramton Bowl in Montgomery. Jake was honored with his selection as the Offensive Lineman MVP at the AISA’s State All Star Game for all classes 1A-3A. CA Headmaster, David Owen noted that Jake will be an asset to the program at Faulkner University with his leadership as a role model to his peers at CA a credit to the type of young man he has developed into. Jake currently plans on pursuing a degree in business as an Eagle next fall at Faulkner and is looking forward to continuing his career on the gridiron. Pictured seated are from left to right: Jamie Waldrop (Mother), Jake Waldrop, and Mack Waldrop (Dad). Standing in the rear are Athletic Director, Jason Allen, Assistant Headmaster, Jon Owens, and Associate Athletic Director Dillon NesSmith.

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PBS KIDS and the PBS KIDS Logo are registered trademarks of PBS. Used with permission. The contents of this ad were developed under a grant from the Department of Education. However, those contents do not necessarily represent the policy of the Department of Education, and you should not assume endorsement by the Federal Government. The project is funded by a Ready To Learn grant (PR/AWARD No. U295A150003, CFDA No. 84.295A) provided by the Department of Education to the Corporation for Public Broadcasting.

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Lee-Scott Academy Welcomes New Math Teacher

Lee-Scott Academy is excited to welcome Miss Anna Mungenast to our faculty as a 6th grade math and Bible teacher. Miss Mungenast grew up in Birmingham, Alabama, and is a graduate of Briarwood Christian School. Having been a student in an independent private school founded on Christian principles, Miss Mungenast said it feels like being at home on the LSA campus. She is a graduate of Auburn University in Elementary Education. While a student at Auburn, Miss Mungenast served on the leadership team for The Oaks Retreat during her sophomore and junior year. During her college years, she worked with youth at Opelika Baptist Church and Lakeview Baptist Church. She is currently an active member of Lakeview Baptist Church where she has continued her work with the youth group and is involved in small group discipleship with 7th and 8th grade girls. Welcome to the LSA family, Miss Mungenast!

ACS Career Tech Student of the Year

AHS Senior Kayla Spencer has been named the ACS Career Technical Education Student of the 2019/2020 Academic Year! Kayla began her CTE coursework at AJHS and received an industry-recognized credential as a freshman. At AHS, she has thrived in Engineering courses taught by our Ms. Jacque Middleton. She also has very much enjoyed the coursework in the Food, Wellness & Dietetics and Education and Training programs taught by our Ms. Julie Echols and Ms. Jessica Birikorang. While adding industry recognized credentials to her resume, she has also been actively involved in the AHS chapter of Family, Community and Career Leaders of America (FCCLA). She was named the Spring CTE Student of the Semester for the Food, Wellness & Dietetics program and the overall Program Student of the Year for the Education and Training program. 17

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Autauga County Schools

Auburn HS Students Compete in International Science and Engineering Fair

We are so proud of Auburn HSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Brayden Noh, Jaeyoung (Daniel) Lee, and Benjamin Davis for competing in the Virtual Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair!

Lee-Scott Athletes Begin Summer Workouts

We are so grateful for the opportunity our student-athletes had today to return to campus to begin summer workouts. For information about how LSA is responding to COVID-19 in athletics, please visit the website. Go Warriors!

901 SOUTH COLLEGE STREET AUBURN, ALABAMA

@JCSMAUBURN JCSM.AUBURN.EDU

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

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Auburn Early Education Center Pick-Up Supplies Day…So great to give our PreK-2nd graders a fond farewell! “There are no good byes for us. Wherever you are, you will always be in my heart” ~Mahatma Gandhi. Happy Summer!

End-of-Year Goodbyes Drake Middle School It was so good to see our Drake Middle School Leopards! We even had a special visit from some former Leopards who are now seniors! If you took pics today, please tag us! We miss you all and hope you have the best summer!

Ogletree Elementary It was so hard to say goodbye to our 5th graders. We will miss these sweet faces! We had so much fun saying goodbye to our 3rd and 4th graders. See you in the fall!

Creekside ES supply pick up was a success! Seeing our Creekside Hawks was absolutely the highlight of our week!

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Autauga County Schools

Chambers Academy Student Signs Letter of Intent to Cheer

Chambers Academy is pleased to announce that Ms. Maci Harmon officially signed a letter of intent to join the Point University Cheer Squad. Maci is the daughter of Ashley and Dori Harmon of LaFayette. Maci maintained an impressive 94.19 numeric GPA while completing a challenging college prep diploma track. Her overall GPA was a 3.94 for her four years in high school enrolled at CA. Additionally, Maci earned three varsity letters as a member of CA’s award winning cheer squad since her sophomore year. During her senior year, Maci served as the Team Captain for the cheer squad. Maci set the bar high working hard in both academics and extracurricular activities without sacrificing her academics. Maci also served in CA’s BETA Club for her academic accomplishments while also serving as the chapter’s secretary. She was also chosen by her peers to serve as the senior class Secretary for the 2019-20 school year. She also served as the voice of CA for morning daily announcements for students and staff. Maci was also involved in leadership on campus at CA serving as the Student Government Association’s Parliamentarian. During her senior year, Maci was involved in the community serving as local Junior Ambassador for the Greater Valley Area Chamber of Commerce. CA’s Varsity Cheer Coach Emily Milford noted that Maci’s Varsity Cheer Squad of fifteen cheerleaders was Chambers largest Cheer Squad in many years. Coach Milford also noted that Maci had been selected as an AISA All Star Cheerleader that performed at the state’s all-star game last December at the Cramton Bowl in Montgomery. CA Headmaster, David Owen noted that Maci will do well in whatever she sets her mind to accomplishing. She currently plans on pursuing a degree in business as a Skyhawk next fall at Point University in nearby West Point, Georgia and is looking forward to cheering on the Skyhawks athletic teams. Pictured seated are: Ashley Harmon, Maci Harmon and Dori Harmon. Standing in the rear are Athletic Director, Jason Allen, Varsity Cheer Coach Emily Milford, and CA Headmaster, David Owen.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

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Chambers Academy Twins Sign Letters of Intent for Football and Baseball Programs

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Chambers Academy is pleased to announce that brothers Brody and Caydon Smoot officially signed letters of intent, taking their next step in their careers to Faulkner University in Montgomery (Brody) and Southern Union State Community College in Wadley (Caydon) next fall. Brody will be joining the Eagles as a member of their football program having enjoyed a successful high school career at Chambers Academy since he arrived in ninth grade. Caydon will be joining the Bisons as a member of their baseball program having had a stellar career at CA on the mound. Brody and Caydon are twin sons of Steve and Donna Smoot of LaGrange, Georgia. Brody maintained an excellent numeric GPA during his high school career with an overall 92.44 average while completing a college prep diploma track. Overall, his GPA for four years of high school classes at CA was a 3.66 as a student-athlete. Additionally, Brody earned eight varsity letters going back to ninth grade as a two sport athlete shining in both football and baseball at CA. He made his mark on the gridiron as a linebacker in the heart of the Rebels defense. During his senior year, Brody’s talents were recognized with his selection to the AISA’s State All Star Football Team. Brody was also selected to the OA News Football 2nd Team All Area Team. Brody also served in CA’s BETA Club for academic accomplishments as a three year member during high school. In addition to football, Brody started for the Rebels state runner-up team in baseball as early as his sophomore year. Likewise, Caydon maintained an excellent numeric GPA during his high school career with an overall 90.42 average while completing a college prep diploma track. Overall, his GPA for four years of high school classes at CA was a 3.50 as a student-athlete. Additionally, Caydon earned ten varsity letters going back to ninth grade as a three sport athlete shining in football, basketball and baseball at CA. He made his mark on the gridiron as a wide receiver, shined as a shooting guard on the state runner-up basketball team and as a star pitcher on the baseball diamond. During Caydon’s senior year, his baseball season was cut short with him holding a 5-0 won/loss record from the pitcher’s mound. CA Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Jason Allen, noted that both Brody and Caydon had great high school careers as student-athletes at CA and that both boys will be missed next fall. CA Headmaster, David Owen praised both boys on their accomplishments noting that Brody and Caydon make the fifth and sixth student-athletes at CA to have signed letters of intent from the 24 member senior. Each of them will be an asset to their programs at the next level for the character that each of them have. Brody currently plans on pursuing a degree in sports management as an Eagle next fall at Faulkner and is looking forward to continuing his career on the gridiron. Caydon, likewise plans on pursuing a degree in communications while he is enrolled as SUSCC. Pictured seated are from left to right: Steve Smoot (Dad), Caydon Smoot, Brody Smoot, Donna Smoot (Mom). Standing are: Associate A.D. Dillon NesSmth, AD & Head Football Coach Jason Allen and CA Headmaster, David Owen

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Autauga County Schools

ACS Proud of Career Tech Students’ Achievements

The evening of Tuesday, May 5, would have seen our celebration of the ACS Career Technical Education Awards. Our AHS family was not able to join together that night, but we are so proud of our young people and we celebrate the year we had together and our students' many accomplishments. Please see the image of the program which lists our talented and much-loved honorees. Thank you to our sponsors for supporting these incredible programs for our students! STUDENT OF THE SEMESTER WINNERS • Advertising Design: Lee Hancock, Aubrey Lake • Aquaculture: Emma Davis, Emily Dorman • Building Construction: Ryan Weng, Tatum Benefield • Business Management & Admin.: Russell Jacoway, Joshua Thomas • Education & Training: Grayson Fain, Kylie Jones • Engineering (AHS): Matthew Clegg, Joshua Medler • Engineering (AJHS): Naeim Mahjouri, Parker Sumner • Engineering (ESS): Satvika Kodali, Linnea Cox • Environmental & Natural Resources: John Hixon, John Pitts • Finance: Ryan Hays, Vicki Dong • Food, Wellness & Dietetics: Lucy Adams, Kayla Spencer • Health Sciences: Cara Herring, Emma Hruska • Hospitality & Tourism: Alexandra Campbell • JROTC: Ryan Koerper, Megan Lipe • Precision Machining: John Boles, Benjamin Timm • Programming & Software Development: Spencer Riggins, Alexander Froede • Television Production: Malia Holstick, Patrick Bingham • Work Based Learning: Hayden Gross, Ty’annia McCurtis CTE PROGRAM WINNERS • Advertising Design: Maurice Epting • Aquaculture: Dakota Favors • Building Construction: Sam Hinson • Business Management & Administration: Russell Jacoway • Education & Training: Kayla Spencer • Engineering (AHS): Matthew Clegg • Engineering (AJHS): Corrina Sutterer • Engineering (ESS): Linea Cox • Environmental & Natural Resources Systems: John Hixon • Food, Wellness & Dietetics: Zykia McClure • Finance: Braxton Hays • Health Sciences: Bailey Bishop • JROTC: Justin Torres • Precision Machining: John Boles • Programming & Software Development: Thomas Steiner • Television Production: Jaxon Jones • Work-Based Learning: Blake Leckey

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Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

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Bouncing Babies and Beyond

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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Right along with crawling, walking and running, it’s a big deal when a toddler breaks the bonds of gravity, learning to bounce and jump. For the very young, bouncing begins to strengthen their core muscles and hone their balance. Older children gain cardiovascular exercise and development of their large muscle groups through bouncing and jumping. As an additional early benefit of bouncing, both sides of the brain and body work together to maintain balance and coordination. Fostering the safe exploration of this low impact movement, the following items get the younger set on the bounce toward engaging play and better health!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Comfort Curve Bouncer

Skywalker MiniTrampoline

Once a baby grows large enough to be cradled in an inclined rocker, adding bounce options multiplies the benefits to their development. A baby’s natural motions and kicking generate a subtle bounce that, in addition to creating their own momentum, moves the activity bar for more eye-catching entertainment.The rattling raccoon and baby deer ring sway overhead, helping to strengthen focus and visual tracking. Gross motor skills and eye-hand coordination are also fostered as baby reaches for and bats at those same toys. The soft fabric seat and optional calming vibrations offer a sense of security that mimics the comfort of being cradled in loving arms. The fabric insert is removable for easy cleaning and a three-point harness keeps baby secured and safe. The Comfort Curve Bouncer is an ideal launching point for little ones’ bouncing beginnings.

For free-form bouncing action paired with the security of a safety net, the Skywalker Mini-Trampoline hits new heights. This 40” round trampoline features a net surround sewn directly into the jump mat for secure bouncing and an easy-access entrance so kids can come and go safely. Stretch bands are used in place of springs to protect children’s joints. The Skywalker features space-themed moon and star graphics as well as space sounds that launch in sync with jumps. Designed for home indoor use only, this trampoline requires minimal real estate in the house. With a muted color palette this minitrampoline is an easy fit in any kid room decor. Perfect for burning off energy and improving coordination, the Skywalker Mini-Trampoline brings the best of bouncing right into your room!

(Fisher-Price)

(Skywalker Trampolines)

Bounce & Spin Puppy

Flybar Pogo Ball

If you’re thinking about getting a dog, get a pup that can do everything (without the mess to clean up!). Featuring a sturdy base, easy-grip handles, interactive buttons and multi-color lights, the stationary Bounce & Spin Puppy plays songs, sounds, and educational phrases while your baby bounces up and down or spins all around. As the rider explores and presses buttons, playful songs and phrases introduce the alphabet, numbers, colors, and more. And each ride on the puppy helps strengthen your baby’s balance and physical coordination skills. The only dog that is safe to ride, the Bounce & Spin Puppy combines active movement play with charming educational elements that grow toddlers’ body and brains as they bounce away!

A thrilling combination of balance board, pogo stick and jump ball, the Flybar Pogo Ball is a guaranteed hit for elementary ages and up. Its blend of balance and bounce fosters both strength and sensory development. Available in five vibrant colors, each pogo jumper comes with extra heavyduty grip tape designed for maximum traction and a pump for easy inflation. Crafted to withstand aggressive play the Pogo Ball boasts a weight limit of 160 lbs (and a free replacement warranty in the event its durability is tested). Quick to learn, the Pogo Ball gets kids bouncing their way to a healthier play-style with a self-propelled activity that burns calories, hones gross motor skills and builds confidence.

(Fisher-Price)

(Flybar)

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

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I divorced twelve years ago. Being a child of divorce myself, I knew the depths of pain that divorce can bring. I never expected to divorce myself, much less see my children go through it. Nonetheless my journey has been one of growth. While everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience is different, there is something universal about how we grieve and heal from divorce. While everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience of parenting is different, there is something universal about how we parent.

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Co-parenting is the process by which unmarried parents resolve to parent as a team in relative agreement with each other regarding the business of raising children.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

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No one is born with these skills. We have to learn them. As a clinical sociologist, I facilitate co-parenting education groups with David Saavedra, a clinical social worker and marriage and family therapist. We share the following steps with group participants.

Begin a new relationship with your Ex - Co-parenting requires setting the old relationship aside and dealing with the grief of that old relationship outside of co-parenting. The new relationship of coparenting is about the business of raising children. It is not about resolving old issues in the marriage that can no longer be resolved. It is about the nuts and bolts of raising children. It is about doctor appointments, transportation to ball games, homework and who will attend the parent teacher conference. Some exspouses can eventually be friends. The key to that friendship is the death of the old relationship.

Establish boundaries - For me, it has been easier to keep boundaries clear. In the beginning of the co-parenting relationship, I used several guidelines to avoid conflicts when communicating with my coparent face to face, by text or by email. 1. I only talk about our daughters. 2. I keep my language and tone respectful. 3. I keep communication short. (Hint: When an issue is heated, I email or text to keep the opportunity for disrespecting one another to a minimum.)

Resolve conflict – Conflicts are part of life. Therefore, conflict is part of co-parenting. If I keep my communication short, respectful and focused on the business of raising children, conflicts are fewer and farther between. When there are disagreements, I say something like this to my daughters, I remind them (and me), moms and dads are different and we don’t always do things the same way. I say something like this. “When you are with dad you need to do what he says. When you are with me, you need to follow my rules.” I am careful to share with them,“One thing dad and I have in common is that we love our girls.” It is absolutely imperative that I never speak ill of their father. Half of their DNA comes from their father. To criticize him in their presence is to criticize my daughters.

Make a parenting agreement – Agreements prevent disagreements. Some co-parents find that written coparenting agreements are helpful. Coparenting agreements have more details than a visitation agreement inside a divorce decree. It can be developed by a lawyer, mediator or counselor/ therapist. To involve a professional, however, requires a fee. Faith based divorce recovery groups or non-profit services for co-parenting may be able to assist co-parents in writing parenting agreements without 25

charging. If there is some level of cooperation between the co-parents, you may be able to write your own parenting agreement. Sample agreements can be found in many co-parenting books or coparenting online resources. Co-parenting is a learned set of skills that benefit everyone, especially our children. AOP

Laura Reagan-Porras is a child advocate, sociologist and freelance writer. She is a mother of two daughters.

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For Summer Learning

teens looking to learn more about the history and legacy of slavery. Best for: Teens Code Switch: Another excellent resource for learning about race and culture, this NPR podcast looks at news and history through a multiracial, multigenerational, and multicultural lens. Although some episodes might not be appropriate for younger listeners, the creators of the podcast have created a playlist of kid-friendly episodes. Best for: Teens Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls: Based on the bestselling book series about extraordinary women from history, this audio series features inspiring modern women like actress Jameela Jamil and ballerina Yuan Yuan Tan reading biographies of influential movers and shakers. Best for: Little kids and big kids The Past and the Curious: History meets humor in this silly series that introduces little-known stories (like the origin of Typhoid Mary) and unsung heroes from the past. There’s even a quiz at the end of every episode to test how well kids have paid attention. Best for: Big kids and tweens Stuff You Missed in History Class: With an emphasis on forgotten stories, strange happenings, and underrepresented communities such as the indigenous people and immigrants of Cannery Row, this series connects the dots between the past and present. Best for: Tweens and teens

Press Play on Podcasts

Summer slide is no joke, and for many kids, school closures due to the coronavirus have made those slides pretty slippery. If you want to keep your kid learning this summer in a fun way, or you’re simply looking for a kid-approved way to keep them busy for half an hour, try educational podcasts. From incredible science shows that answer kids’ real questions to story times that boost reading comprehension, podcasts can strengthen kids’ grasp of core subject areas like math, science, language arts, and social studies, while encouraging deep thinking, curiosity, and self-awareness.

English and language arts

Circle Round: Fascinating and full of positive messages, this story time podcast expands kids’ worldviews by introducing them to folktales from around the world. Stories include “Sweet and Sour,” a South African tale about brothers who are polar opposites, and “Chief Know-It-All” about a Hawaiian chief who learns his lesson. Best for: Little kids Greeking Out: Inspired by a National Geographic children’s book series, this podcast shares kid-friendly adaptations of classic Greek myths, sprinkled with facts about Greek mythology’s influence on modern stories and language. Best for: Big kids and tweens Julie’s Library: Julie Andrews and her daughter, children’s book author Emma Walton Hamilton, read stories like The Wolf, the Duck, and the Mouse and From the Stars in the Sky to the Fish in the Sea together and help foster a love of reading in young listeners. Best for: Little kids Smash Boom Best: This family-friendly debate podcast introduces kids to persuasive techniques and the finer points of forming an argument, all while discussing the merits of aliens vs. robots, chocolate vs. cheese, and sharks vs. skunks. Best for: Big kids The Story Seeds Podcast: In this innovative series, award-winning children’s authors including Jason Reynolds and Dan Gutman interview a kid or tween with a great story idea, and then write and read aloud a story inspired by the kid’s idea. Best for: Big kids and tweens

Science

Brains On: This silly science series is a big hit with kids (and grown-ups) for taking real questions from young people and answering them with the help of experts. They also have online resources to help kids take part in science experiments discussed on the show. Best for: Big kids and tweens But Why: Take the pressure off having to answer kids’ seemingly simple but surprisingly complex questions like, “What is sound?” and “Why do we sometimes see the moon during the day?” Best for: Little kids and big kids Earth Rangers: Animal lovers will enjoy this fun nature series that introduces kids to the earth’s biodiversity and sustainability habits, as well as kid-submitted animal jokes. Best for: Little kids and big kids Science Friday: With timely topics and guests who are experts in subjects across scientific disciplines, this radio-program-turnedpodcast tackles everything from earth science to ethics in a winning way for teens and their parents alike. Best for: Teens Wow in the World: The learning comes easy in this fast-paced series that uses lively segments like “Two Whats!? and a Wow!” and hilarious hosts to explore kid-friendly scientific concepts like bird behavior and toilet technology. Best for: Little kids and big kids

History and social studies

1619: Part of the New York Times’ Pulitzer Prize-winning project observing the 400th anniversary of American slavery, this audio series is challenging, thought-provoking, and well worth a listen for Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

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Saving for college Q. What percentage of our income should we save for our kids’ education? We know you recommend setting aside 15 percent for retirement, but do you have a similar rule that applies to paying for college? A. I don’t really have a rule, or percentage, for how much you should save toward a college fund. If you’re following the Baby Steps, I recommend getting 15 percent of your income going toward retirement before saving for college. After you’ve got your retirement savings rolling, put what you can, based on your own unique situation, toward college funding. If you’ve got teenagers in the house, you need to get serious about college funding soon—like right now. There’s no

rush if they’re toddlers, but you might want to start looking at things like a 529 or an ESA (Education Savings Account). The thing is, there are just too many variables, the main one being the ages of the kids, to set a strict percentage. You’ve also got to consider things like where you’re thinking about them going to school, how much you want to save up, and other factors.

Don’t put your home on the line! Q. We’d like to start preparing for the future, but our debt is preventing us from investing for retirement. Would it be okay to use a home equity line of credit to start investing? We were thinking the eventual returns might justify doing this. A. No! Never put something as important and meaningful as your home on the line

just for the sake of investing. Do not borrow against your home! I’m guessing you’re new to my way of doing things, so let’s start from the beginning. First, follow the Baby Steps. Getting $1,000 in the bank as a starter emergency fund is Baby Step 1. Next, pay off all your debts from smallest to largest—except for your home—using the debt snowball method. That’s Baby Step 2. It’s time then to revisit your emergency fund, and bulk it up to a full three to six months of expenses in Baby Step 3. Now, it’s time to really start thinking about your future and retirement. In Baby Step 4, take 15 percent of your gross household income and start investing it for retirement. Start with your company’s 401(k) plan, up to the full employer match. Then, invest the rest into Roth IRAs. One for you, and one for your spouse, if you’re married. Here’s the thing. Investing becomes easy at this point, because you’ve freed up your income. And that’s the most important wealth-building tool you have!

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Whether across the country or just across town, moving is a big adjustment for everyone in the family. Children, in particular, can feel overwhelmed and uprooted because they are rarely in control of the decision to change homes, neighborhoods, or schools. Here are some tips to help parents support their kids through the transition. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

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Talk it over

riencing significant transitions in their lives. Try to be consistent and patient while they adjust to their new surroundings.

As early as possible, start preparing your child for the move by letting them know where, when, and why you are making the move. Let them know you understand that this may be upsetting or scary to them, but it is also an exciting and a fun adventure you will do together. Give them the opportunity to talk through their feelings and make sure that know they have permission to be sad, angry, excited, or scared, sometimes all at the same time!

Foster friendships One of the most positive things about moving is the opportunity to make new friends. Parents can make moving easier by helping their kids meet new people. Host a playdate, get involved in sports or other activities, take a plate of cookies to the neighbors, and introduce yourself to other families at the neighborhood park. It can be hard for kids (and parents) to step out of their comfort zone but once you have made some friends and acquaintances it is easier to feel at home in a new place. Parents should also encourage their children to continue friendships from their previous home as much as possible. Just because there is more distance between friends does not mean the relationship has to end.

Take a tour When house hunting try to involve kids as much as possible.This will help them feel a part of the decision. Let them tour possible homes with you and give their opinions. If this is not possible, let be a part of the decisions after you have it narrowed down to a few contenders. Give them the chance to pick their bedroom and play spaces. Some kids may enjoy decorating or adding new pieces to their room while others prefer keeping the familiar things from the previous home.

Moving is a challenge not just for the kids but for the parents too. Try to set an example for your kids by acknowledging sad feelings while keeping a positive attitude and embracing your new neighborhood. It can also help to explain that while the place you live may change, the important things won’t - your family will be together and you will always love each other no matter where you live. AOP

Maintain routines Once the move is complete, it is important to maintain similar routines as the previous house. This will help kids feel safer in their new environment. Parents should also be aware that regression in potty training, behavior, and sleep are totally normal for kids to go through when they are expe-

Sarah Lyons is a mom of six children, including three year old triplets.

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

Congratulations to the Liles Smiles no cavity winners!

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TIMOTHY DUNNIGAN III TRAVIS JOHNSON TRAVON MATTHEWS TRENT REED TRENTON CLAYTON TRESHUN PHILLIPS TRIPP SPRINGER TROY POWELL TUCKER MCLAUGHLIN TUCKER WEBB TURNER SMITH TYJAH SMITH-OWENS TYLER BECKON TYLER MACHEN TYQUAVIAN WILKES TYRA PITTS TYRESE PITTS VALERIA REYES VANESSA FLYNN VANESSA LOA VICTORIA PORTER VIRGINA HEFELFINGER VIRGINIA GRANT VIVIANNE PAYNE VIVIENNE MATTHEIS WALKER MELTON WALTER NIMS WAYLON BARNETT WELLER ROLLING WESTON SANDERS WESTON MATHIS WHITMAN HAWKINS WILLIAM BRYAN WILLIAM GREEN WILLIAM JACKSON WILLIAM MCCARLEY WILLIAM NEIGHBORS WILLIAM PACK WILLIAM RAFFERTY WILLIAM ROBINSON WILLIAM TUCKER WILLIAM MADDOX WILLIS GOLDEN WILLOW HYPPOLITE WILLOW MESSER XAVIER MICHAUD XZYIAH WHITE YANRU XUAN ZACHARY EVANS ZANIYAH BAILEY ZARIAH RANDOLPH ZAYVIAN JAMES ZIAH RAY ZIYEASHA RAY ZOE AKINS ZOEY RICHARDSON ZOEY TOLBERT ZOYA AYDAROVA-ROUE ZYDARRIEN JACKSON ZYLIE HODGES

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Variations Dance Studio 323 Airport Road, Suite F Auburn Offering classes in ballet technique, pre-pointe, pointe, jazz, Broadway, contemporary, musical theatre, lyrical and more. Also, offering a company performance program and competition teams. 334-275-5013

www.variationsauburn.com

Family Wellness and Health F45 Training North Auburn ad on page 12

1200 Opelika Road Auburn F45 is specifically designed to provide a functional full-body workout while improving energy levels, metabolic rate, strength, and endurance.F45 is one of the most time-efficient ways of training. We aim to burn up to 750 calories per 45-minute session. The motivation and encouragement in a group training facility creates a pulsing, upbeat environment where goals are met and exceeded. www.f45training.com/northauburn

The Drug Store

Where To Start City of Auburn A one-stop resource to find information about the local government, the services in the city, community connections and how to find all you need as a new resident of Auburn, Al. 334-501-7260

www.auburnalabama.org

City of Opelika 204 South 7th Street Opelika A one-stop resource to find information about the local government, the services in the city, community connections and how to find all you need as a new resident of Opelika, Al. 334-705-5150

www.opelika-al.gov

Lee County Great place to find area information regarding the government, city information, schools and community resources. www.leeco.us

They begin no earlier than 9:00 a.m. and conclude no later than 9:00 p.m. Wednesday lessons must conclude by 6:00 p.m. due to church activities. Lessons are offered in the areas of piano, voice, guitar, strings, brass, woodwinds, percussion and pipe organ. Our experienced instructors are highly qualified in their individual areas. 334-745-5715

www.fbcopelika.com/fine-arts-academy

Rising Starz ad on page 31

2140-H East University Drive Auburn We are the premier performing arts center in Auburn, AL. With classes for ages 2 to adult, Rising Starz offers superior training at all levels regardless of the age, goal, or training level of the student. Offering lessons in ballet, pointe, baton, jazz, tap, tumbling, musical theatre and more. 334-209-1464

www.risingstarzstudio.com

SportsPlex Tri for Kids

After School Activities/ Lessons Ballet Academy

ad on page 14

1001 Andrews Road Opelika Register for this year’s event on August 1. Swim, bike and run in this year’s event. Ages 6-15 years can compete. Check out the race information, rules and awards on our website. www.sportsplextriforkids.com

ad on page 19

1703 Westend Court Opelika We believe training in classical ballet is essential in the development of the technique needed for a dancer to accomplish excellence in any genre of dance whether it is Contemporary, Jazz, Hip Hop, or Tap. Classical Ballet training builds lean , long muscles and promotes excellent posture by strengthening the core abdominal and back muscles. Classical ballet training also instills musicality and the development of artistry. 334-737-5551

www.myballetacademy.net

Bosman Auburn Tennis Academy ad on page 20

Offering Summer Tennis Classes, Day Camps, Junior & Adult Classes and Kids’ Day Camps. For information, fbosman@auburntennisacademy.com 334-887-5655

www.auburntennisacademy.com

First Baptist Church Opelika Fine Arts ad on page 20

301 South 8th Street Opelika Private music lessons are offered Monday – Friday. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

World Champion Taekwondo ad on page 25

2701 Fredrick Road Opelika Looking for a life-changing, fitness-boosting class for your child that also teaches self-defense? Look no further! Our Auburn kids martial arts classes are loved by our community. When you train with us you’ll experience a place where you fit in, no matter what your background or fitness level is. You’ll also learn powerful adult martial arts, discover ways to keep your children safe, and learn secret tips to staying in amazing shape known previously only to elite martial artists. 334-737-5617

www.martialartsauburn.com

AR Workshop Auburn 1214 Ogletree Village Lane Auburn AR Workshop boutique DIY studio offers wood sign classes, framed sign classes, DIY decor, pallet sign painting, farmhouse style pillow painting, kids workshops and parties, centerpiece boxes, lazy susans, round wood signs, chunky blanket classes and more! Check out the Summer Art Camps for Kids this July! Grab a spot before they are gone! 334-539-8057

www.arworkshop.com/auburn

ad on page 33

464 North Dean Road Auburn We are a small town, local store owned by a husband and wife team, Craig and Lisa Leonard, R. Ph. We have been serving the area for over 35 years! Stop by for your COVID19 Rapid Test and Flu and Strep tests. We can administer vaccines and offer local delivery. 334-821-4493

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Your CBD Store Auburn ad on page 7

1452 Opelika Road Auburn Stop In…Where Good Health Hits Home. Shop our award-winning collection: Oil Tinctures, Water Solubles, Topicals, Soft Gel Capsules, Bath & Beauty, Pet Products and more! 334-502-0200

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Home Maintenance and Repair All-V Roofing and Restoration ad on Inside Front Cover

Auburn We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home roofing project as if it were our own. With 8 years of industry experience, we offer a wide range of roofing expertise and experience to meet the specific needs of our clients. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction! 334-319-2759

www.all-vroofingandrestorationllc.com/

Auburn Home Maintenance We have an extensive list of the best reputable professionals in the area, so if the job is too big for us we can still help. Simply give us a call and let us handle it from there. 334-539-7000

www.auburnhomemaintenance.com

Eagle Inspection Services I provide the property condition information you need for the best possible decision making. My inspection process is simple and affordable. 334-728-2137

www.eagleinspectionsauburn.com

Five Star Painting With our industry experience, keen eye for detail, and penchant for punctuality, you can get the pre-

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cise paint job you deserve in little time and with no additional stress on you 334-212-5451

www.fivestarpainting.com/auburn

TruGreen Lawn Care 1127 Preston Street Opelika Our PhD-certified specialists will evaluate your lawn and design a tailored approach based on its climate, grass type, soil condition and usage to give it exactly what it needs at the right time — and it’s all backed by our Healthy Lawn Guarantee®? 334-363-3400

www.trugreen.com

Places for Culture/ Entertainment Gogue Performing Arts Center ad on page 9

910 South College Street Auburn The GPAC at Auburn University is East Alabama’s premier venue presenting professional performances in music, dance, theatre and more. Subscribe to the 2020-21 Season with performances including Baby Shark Live, Boz Skaggs, Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer, The Musical, Anastasia, Oklahoma!, Alabama Symphony Orchestra Vivaldi’s The Four Seasons Recomposed and much more! 334-844-8497

www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art ad on page 18

901 South College Street Auburn The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University consists of changing exhibition galleries, Luster, the museum café, and a museum shop in a striking modernist building set within extensive grounds. A pillar of the southern gateway cultural arts district, it offers students, faculty and the region impactful opportunities to engage with a wide-ranging visual and decorative arts collection spanning centuries, genres and materials. 334-844-1484

www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts ad on page 34

1 Museum Drive Montgomery The MMFA provides compelling experiences cen-

tered on human creativity valued for their contributions to the individual well-being of its citizens and visitors and to the rising, collective vibrance of the City, County, and Region 334-625-4333

www.mmfa.org

East Alabama Arts 1700 Lafayette Parkway Opelika Subscribe to the 2020-21 performance series. Performances include Chicago, A Tribute to Aretha Franklin, An Officer and a Gentleman, The Musical and much more. 334-749-8105

www.eastalabamaarts.org

Telfair Peet Theatre 21 Telfair Peet Theatre Auburn University Performances throughout the academic school year including plays, music, dance and more. Look for the 2020-21 productions soon! 334-844-4748

www.cla.auburn.edu/theatre

Places to Gather

334-203-1364

www.restingpulsebrewing.com

Downtown Auburn 122 West Magnolia Avenue Auburn Welcome to the heart of Auburn and Auburn University. Here you can browse local shops and boutiques for unique style and gifts. Gather friends and family an enjoy a family meal overlooking Toomer’s Corner and Samford Hall. www.downtownauburnonline.com

Opelika Main Street 601 Avenue A Opelika Once a sleepy little railroad town, Opelika has now grown into vibrant and energetic downtown community. Gather with family and friends to shop among local merchants and dine in style with the railroad tracks as your back drop. www.opelikamainstreet.org

Drive-By Tacos ad on page 4

Auburn We are a food truck serving gourmet tacos, sliders, and salads. This is takin’ it to the street food. Exciting News…Join us at George’s Farmer’s Market (1010 County Road 16, LaFayette, Al) for an open-air, family style eating experience. Grab your blankets and chairs and enjoy a meal with us. They have a strong desire to serve locally and globally in order to feed and provide water for those in need, so we have partnered with a nonprofit organization called Wine to Water by donating a percentage of our proceeds. This organization is very close to our hearts, and its mission is to provide clean water sources to address the global water shortage to vulnerable communities around the globe. Stay up to date on our locations by following on Facebook. 334-203-4178

environment where you can come find your “resting pulse” - to relax and spend time with friends and family while exploring new and exciting local craft beers. We offer a variety of signature full-flavored craft beers, along with rotating seasonal and session offerings, including some that may surprise you along the way. Check out our upcoming events or host your event with us.

www.drivebytacos.com

Places to Grow Alabama Department of Public Health ad on Back Cover

201 Monroe Street Montgomery All Kids Children Health Insurance Program: A lowcost, comprehensive healthcare coverage program for children under age 19. Benefits include regular checkups and immunizations, sick child doctor visits, prescriptions, vision and dental care, hospitalization, mental health and substance abuse services and more. Women, Infants and Children (WIC): supplemental nutrition program for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, women who had a baby within the last 6 months, infants and children under the age of five. 888-737-5437

www.adph.org

Resting Pulse Brewing Company

Allen Orthodontics

714 1st Avenue Opelika Resting Pulse Brewing Company is a local family owned craft brewery in Opelika, Alabama. We serve a wide variety of craft beers out of our tap room in historic downtown Opelika. Our vision for the Resting Pulse Brewing Company is to create an

1234 Ogletree Village Lane Auburn Specializes in helping children, teens and adults achieve beautiful, straight smiles by providing orthodontic solutions specifically tailored to suit each patient’s lifestyle and personal preferences.

ad on page 11

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334-705-8655

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www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Auburn Pediatric Dentistry ad on page 21

841 North Dean Road Auburn We are a pediatric specialty practice which means our focus is entirely on children and adolescents. we specialize in diagnosis and treatment of children’s oral health needs and development. Each visit to our office includes cavity detections, monitoring of growth and development and daily prevention of decay by focusing on proper home care. 334-826-6651

www.auburnpediatricdentistry.com

date orthodontic technology. Rely on the experts at our practice to create your perfect smile in an affordable and comfortable fashion. 334-521-0112

www.shelleyortho.com

Auburn Pediatric and Adult Medicine 2353 Bent Creek Road, Suite110 Auburn We provide primary care to patients of all ages. 334-887-8707

www.auburndoc.com

Opelika Pediatrics and Family Clinic 5809 US Hwy-280 Opelika Providing care for infants through adolescents

East Alabama Pediatric Dentistry

334-664-0463 www.preferredmedgroup.com/opelikapediatrics-and-family-clinic/

742 North Dean Road Auburn We cater to children and is dedicated to providing the best quality dental services available for your child. With each visit, we hope to teach your child the importance of dental care, along with encouraging them to keep up the good work and to stay cavity-free!

Pediatric Clinic 760 East Glenn Avenue Auburn 2401 Village Professional Drive South Opelika We provide primary care health services for infants, children and adolescents.

ad on page 14

334-321-0780

www.gatergrins.com

Liles Pediatric Dentistry ad on page 29

1204 Ogletree Village Lane Auburn Our office provides specialized dentistry for children and adolescents in a warm, caring and “childfriendly” environment. We focus on preventive care to help each child grow a healthy smile that will last a lifetime. Our office serves infants, children, teens and children with special health care needs. 334-887-0099

www.lilessmiles.com

Pediatric Associates of Auburn ad on page 8

2901 Corporate Park Drive Opelika Our skilled team of pediatricians offers comprehensive medical care for infants, children and adolescents. We specialize in medical care for kids, and we would love to get to know you and your family better. Our commitment is to help children reach their highest potential by working with parents to promote and maintain their child’s physical and emotional well–being from birth up to college years. 334-203-1766

www.auburnpediatric.com

Shelley Orthodontics ad on page 7

1957 East Samford Avenue, Suite A Auburn From clear braces to Invisalign, we offer a wide variety of treatment options using the most up-to-

334-749-8121

www.thepedsclinic.com

The Children’s Hospital 1600 7th Avenue South Birmingham Children’s of Alabama is the only medical center in Alabama dedicated solely to the care and treatment of children. It is a private, not-for-profit medical center that serves as the primary site of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) pediatric medicine, surgery, psychiatry, research and residency programs. 205-638-9100

www.childrensal.org

Places to Learn Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center ad on page 27

128 East Glenn Avenue Auburn Transportation from Schools available; Licensed by the State of Alabama; Nationally Accredited through National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs/ Association for Early Learning Leaders (NAC); Theme-based Lesson Plans and Curriculum. The Child Development Center is a ministry of Auburn First Baptist Church in which we provide safe, loving, quality care for children in a Christian environment. We strive to provide the best in early education by providing hands-on learning so that each child may develop to his or her highest potential cognitively, physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually. Now Enrolling Summer Camp. 334-821-8125

www.auburnfbc.org

Auburn Day School ad on page 17

Auburn Alabama’s first STEM Preschool. Why choose Auburn Day School? Curriculum is concept-based, hands-on and active. Our focus is on process rather than procedures. We want students to learn how to think, not what to think so we can help set the foundation for a lifetime of learning. We are a convenient drop-in program with online sign up, Monday-Friday 8:00-11:30am. kmurrah@auburndayschool.com www.auburndayschool.org

Bonnie’s Kids Childcare Center ad on page 11

2314 Enterprise Drive Opelika Conveniently located across from Tiger Town. “Where children grow.” Closed circuit monitoring; computer & dance programs; pick up from school for Beauregard, Opelika & Auburn, and Trinity Christian for after school programs, and summer camps. We are licensed for up to 200 children / DHR Licensed for 26 years with qualified staff that have been at the center for over 15 years. Summer activities program for school age children; Breakfast, lunch, & snack provided (USDA Food Program), Premier Spirit Academy, field trips include swimming, bowling, parks, Callaway Gardens, Auburn University and movie theatre; art and music classes offered at the center. 334-745-6248

www.bonnieschildcare.com

Frazelma Teaching Parents, Parenting Coach ad on page 3

Opelika We spotlight and focus on the Frazelma Teaching Parents brand of digital and service products. Frazelma Teaching Parents provides effective parenting tools to assist in being the ABSOLUTE BEST PARENTS WE CAN BE! Frazelma focuses on improving parenting skills by utilizing a step-by-step/direct approach. For membership and more information, log on to the website and find digital courses/webinars, innovative tips and parenting sessions.

frezelma@frazelmalynn.com https://gtormusthaves.online

Growing Room Child Dev. Center ad on page 22

1755 Thomason Drive Opelika Now Open!!! Give Your Child the Growing Room

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Experience! More Informed Parents Choose Growing Room! “On Our Block”-language based curriculum, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, nutritious warm meals, superior security and an outstanding playground with safe, solid rubber surfacing. Extracurricular programs include JumpBunch & Dance. We offer before and after school care to most Opelika City Schools. 334-501-2044

www.growingroomusa.com/auburn

Growing Room Child Dev. Center ad on page 22

644 North Dean Road Auburn Give Your Child the Growing Room Experience! More Informed Parents Choose Growing Room! “On Our Block”-language based curriculum, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, nutritious warm meals, superior security and an outstanding playground with safe, solid rubber surfacing. Extracurricular programs include JumpBunch & Dance. We offer before and after school care to most Auburn City Schools. 334-501-2044

www.growingroomusa.com/auburn

Kreher Preserve and Nature Center ad on page 13

2222 North College Street Auburn Woodland Wonders Nature Preschool is Auburn’s first nature preschool and the second nature preschool in Alabama. “Nature preschool” is an innovative educational strategy that allows your child to learn about, with, and through nature, embracing the great outdoors as their classroom. Children spend their school time exploring and uncovering knowledge in an environment where curiosity and child-led discovery are encouraged. This incredible, cutting-edge, and revolutionary philosophy combines early-childhood education and environmental awareness on a new level. Nature Explorers Home school Program is an environmental education program designed for home-schooling families which offers a unique, nature-based educational experience. Classes incorporate hands-on science with nature and environmental awareness, and each concludes with a nature hike. 334-502-4553

www.auburn,edu/preserve

Lee-Scott Academy ad on page 5

1601 Academy Drive Auburn Private Christian school with grades pre-k-12th; Lee-Scott Academy is a college preparatory school offering a quality education in an environment where students are protected, nurtured, and challenged with Christian principles that promote the development of the total person. The pursuit of excellence in academics is the hallmark of the Academy, complemented by opportunities to participate in programs that encourage student success. Our goal is to inspire students to seek their full potential in academics, the arts, and athletics in a challenging and nurturing environment that cultivates social responsibility, mutual respect, and personal integrity in a school community that promotes Christian principles. 334-821-2430

www.lee-scott.org

St. Michael Catholic Preschool & Kindergarten ad on page 32

1100 North College Street Auburn St. Michael Catholic Preschool accepts the challenge to participate in Jesus’ teaching mission by offering opportunities for active faith life, providing quality educational programs, promoting the growth and development of the whole person, accepting diversity of all people, while sharing the learning experience with parents as active partners. St. Michael Catholic Preschool will provide a quality education based on Catholic values and traditions. We will nurture the whole child through a safe, creative, and spiritual learning environment. 334-887-5540

www.stmichaelsauburn.com

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Trinity Christian School ad on page 35

1010 India Road Opelika Trinity Christian School was established in 1978 as a private Christian school committed to providing a classical, biblical education to the young people of our community. With a starting assumption that education of children is the responsibility of parents, we seek to assist families in teaching all subjects in the light of God’s Word. Our goal is to provide a secure Christian environment of classical academic excellence. Please take a few moments to browse our site and learn about our academics, arts, sports, and other K-12 programs. Trinity offers a classical, Christian education that employs time-tested curricula and teaching methods. Our students participate in hands-on learning about God’s creation and they practice careful articulation when expressing the truth of God’s Word; all the while, they grow to appreciate great literature and Latin as well as how God weaves science and mathematics throughout His world. 334-745-2464

www.tcsopelika.org

Auburn City Schools 855 East Samford Avenue Auburn Public K-12 grades, includes 9 elementary schools, 2 middle/intermediate schools, 1 junior high and 1 high school. 334-887-2100

www.auburnschools.org

Auburn Classical Academy 1901-B Waverly Parkway Opelika A classical Christian school, K-8th grades, with a goal to nurture students’ intellectual growth as an integral aspect of Christian character development. 334-821-7081

www.auburnclassicalacademy.com

Indian Pines Country Day School 1742 Saugahatchee Road Auburn Program includes themed units, language, math, science, social skills, phonics program and more. Lunch bunch, gymnastics, and art classes offered. 334-821-7786

www.ipcds.org

Lakeview Preschool Adventures 1600 East Glenn Avenue Auburn As a ministry of Lakeview Baptist Church, Lakeview Preschool Adventures we strive to not only teach preschoolers the basic ABC’s and 123’s; we also strive to teach them the love of Jesus and how He would want us to treat others. 334-887-7094 www.lakeviewbaptist.org/preschoolministry/lakeview-preschool-adventures/

Lee County Schools 2410 Society Hill Road Opelika Public K-12 grades, includes 7 elementary schools, 1 middle school, 1 freshmen center, 1 junior high and 4 high schools. 334-705-6000

www.lee.k12.al.us

Opelika City Schools 300 Simmons Street Opelika Public K-12 grades, includes 3 primary schools, 3 intermediate schools, 1 middle school and 1 high school. 334-745-9700

www.opelikaschools.org

Parkway Baptist Church Preschool & Kindergarten 766 East University Drive Auburn Christian based preschool consisting of biblical and instructional curriculums. Instructional curriculum is Handwriting Without Tears®. Weekly Chapel, monthly lunch bunches, extracurricular tumbling classes, and more!! 334-321-0537 preschool

www.parkwayauburn.org/parkway-

Preschool Adventures at Lakeview Baptist Church 1600 East Glenn Avenue Auburn Our most important tasks are to help children develop mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially through a planned curriculum. 334-321-4905

www.lakeviewbaptist.org

The Oaks School 2201 Executive Park Drive Opelika We are a Pre-K through 12th grade church school that started in 2018 in the Auburn-Opelika area. The Oaks School offers a four-day school week with strong academics, spiritually dynamic chapel services, limited homework, and an encouraging family atmosphere that empowers all students to become creative, high-impact leaders. 334-887-9947

www.theoaksschool.org

Places to Play

334-502-4553

2222 North College Street Auburn 20 acre track, comprising seven natural habitats, including special points of interest such as the

www.auburn,edu/preserve

Auburn Escape Zones 1234 Commerce Drive Auburn Immerse your group in a room with a specific theme, problem and goal. You must work together as a team to solve puzzles, uncover clues and unlock locks in order to solve the problem or “escape the room”. 334-329-7088

www.auburnescapezones.com

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Auburn Parks and Recreation 425 Perry Street Auburn Everything from children’s activities and team sports to city-wide events and local parks to explore. Quarterly published brochures include all the fun classes and programming for everyone in your family, including your dog! Don’t miss exciting community events where you can meet neighbors and make new friends. Parks and Rec has many beautiful parks to play in, as well as, a community pool, gymnasiums and fitness centers.

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Chewacla State Park 124 Shell Toomer Parkway Auburn 696 scenic acres offer plenty of rest, relaxation and recreation; include a 26-acre lake, swimming area, playground, a modern campground, picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters, cabins, hiking and mountain biking trails.

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334-887-5621

www.auburnalabama.org/parks/

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Felton Little Park 341 East Glenn Avenue Auburn Playground, a batting cage, a picnic area with three grills and three picnic tables, as well as three youth softball/baseball fields. 334-501-2930

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Good Times 750 East Glenn Avenue Auburn Bowling lanes, arcade games and escape rooms. 334-539-3131

Kreher Preserve and Nature Center ad on page 13

Longleaf Pine Demonstration Forest, Wildflower Trail, Boulder Ridge, Butterfly and Vegetable Gardens, Hidden Falls and the old Homestead.

www.goodtimesbowling.com

Hickory Dickory Park 1399 Hickory Lane Auburn A unique, multi-level playground structure including slides, swings, towers and open play areas. 334-501-2930

www.auburnalabama.org/park

SAFER AT HOME

SUMMER CAMP Campers, ages 6 to 12, will be inspired by works of art in the Museum’s collection and learn to use varied materials and techniques. The ten recorded lessons, led by familiar camp instructors, will be available for campers to view at their convenience. Whether your child already has a love of art or is just getting started, everyone will enjoy virtual art-camping. Learn more and register at mmfa.org/camp.

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Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

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Kiesel Park 520 Chadwick Lane Auburn Auburn’s largest park, with a pavilion, a garden, a pond and a walking trail with a distance of 2 1/4 miles. 334-501-2930

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Municipal Park (Monkey Park) 700 5th Avenue Opelika Several playground areas, a picnic shelter, a gazebo, and an antique miniature train known as the Rocky Brook Rocket. 334-705-5150

www.opelika-al.gov

Opelika Parks and Recreation 1001 Andrews Road Opelika Looking for a family fitness center? Opelika has a state of the art SportsPlex and Aquatic Center. Fitness class, gymnasium, indoor pool and outdoor splash pad, sports fields and more. Also, there are numerous parks including the Municipal Park that features the Rocky Brook Train. Find classes for all your family members to try. Or, find a team sport to join. Don’t miss the calendar of events for local fun around town. 334-705-5560 Recreation

www.opelika-al.gov/341/Parks-

Training up the next generation of Christian leaders

Surge Trampoline Park 2506 Pepperell Parkway Opelika Indoor trampoline park with jousting, slam dunk hoops, dodgeball courts, toddler play, arcades and more. 334-737-5599

www.surgeopelika.com

Town Creek Park 1150 South Gay Street Auburn Kid’s playground and walking trail that is 0.87 miles long, and an additional trail is being built around the pond. 334-501-2930

TCSOpelika.org | 334-745-2464

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Real Estate Agents HomeLink Realty

ad on Inside Back Cover

310 Samford Village Court Auburn With years of experience helping local buyers and sellers just like yourself, we know how to locate the finest properties and negotiate the best deals. It’s our job to know about the latest market conditions, government regulations, and upcoming developments — so that you don’t have to. As your Buyer’s Representative, we can make the process of house hunting much easier and more efficient than if you did it all yourself. We can help you get financing, guide you to local neighborhoods, help you determine your budget, and prioritize a list of essential features that you need in your next home. Selling a house on your own can be an overwhelming task. There’s advertising to plan and budget for, open houses and private showings to arrange, purchase offers to negotiate, contract contingencies to worry about, and complicated paperwork to fill out. Make it easy on yourself by putting your home in the hands of seasoned professionals. We have extensive experience marketing properties and showing them to their best advantage. 334-329-5055

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Auburn Realty 233 West Glenn Avenue Auburn 334-887-8777

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Berkshire Hathaway 1810 E Glenn Ave, #130 Auburn 334-826-1010

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Toland Realty 544 East Glenn Avenue Auburn 334-329-7390

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Weichert Realty 475 North Dean Road Auburn

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FamilyCalendar Saturday, July 4 4th of July Boat Parade Lake Martin. Decorate your boat and join the patriotic crowd at Kowaliga Marina as boats of all sizes, shapes and decoration will “parade” from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor circling just past the lighthouse. Spectators line the shoreline along the parade route applaud their favorite patriotically decorated boats and contestants. Registered boats will be vying for top honors for the Largest Flag, Tallest Flag, Most Patriotic, Most Creative, and the Best Crew. (256) 472-5665 for times and info! Independence Day Hike F.D. Roosevelt State Park. Join Pine Mountain Association to celebrate Independence Day with a hike, some ice cream, and some watermelon! This will be a moderate 3.3 mile hike on the Pool, Delano, and Mountain Creek trails. Meet at the north end of the Liberty Bell Pool parking lot (next to the picnic shelter) on GA 354 by 8:45 a.m. We will start the hike at 9:00 a.m. $5 parking. 706-663-4858. 4th of July Concert and Fireworks Show will be held in the Amphitheater located on the West bank of the Chattahoochee River in Russell County/ Phenix City.

Thursday, July 9 Nature Walks: Ferns Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Join our guides for a peaceful morning walk as you take in the many sights and sounds of the Preserve. Nature Walks offer excellent opportunities to socialize and learn while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Pre-registration is not required. Each month features a new seasonal theme. Groups meet at the pavilion. www. auburn.edu/preserve

Monday, July 13 Nature Explorers Home School Program Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Nature Explorers Homeschool Program is an environmental education program designed for home-schooling families that offers a unique, nature-based educational experience. Classes incorporate hands-on science with nature and environmental awareness, and each concludes with a nature hike. www.auburn.edu/preserve

Tuesday, July 14 Family Discovery Hike: Ferns Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Join our guides for an educational adventure as you and your children take in the many sights and sounds of the Nature Center. Discovery Hikes offer excellent opportunities to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Discovery Hikes are for families with children ages 5 to 12 and are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Each month features a new seasonal theme. Groups meet at the pavilion. www.auburn.edu/preserve

Thursday, July 16 Emi Sunshine Band at Pebble Hill Sundilla and Pebble Hill team up once again, this time to present EmiSunshine in an outdoor concert. The concert takes place at Pebble Hill at 7:30. Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, and online at sundillamusic.com; admission at the door will be $25. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is welcome to bring their own favorite beverage or food, but NO GLASS please! www.sundillamusic.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2020

Capital City Shape Notes Singing Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. These traditional singers perform from shape note hymn books published in Alabama, including “The Sacred Harp” and “Christian Harmony.” The daylong singing will be held in the Old Alabama Town Reception Center and is free and open to the public. The Singing is held annually on the third Thursday of July. Splash Bash Summer Games: Bingo! Opelika SportsPlex Splash Park. 4:00-6:00 PM. Music, bingo, trivia, contests, snacks and prizes. Bring the whole family! All ages welcome. www.opelikasportsplex.com

Saturday, July 18 Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run The annual Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run begins at the Ridge Marina with registration at 8:30 AM and will end at Kowaliga Restaurant at Kowaliga. Those participating will travel from the Ridge Marina to River North, and other points on Lake Martin. Awards and Post-Run party to be held at Kowaliga Restaurant. Proceeds will go to the Alexander City Lions Club to benefit local charities. Science on Saturday: Medicinal Plants Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Immerse yourself in the art of traditional herbalism with our experts and guest speaker, Tia Gonazales – horticulturist and botanist. You’ll become familiar with some of the most common edible and medicinal wayside plants. Come and learn to forage! This is a one-hour, lecture-style program that will provide the opportunity to see and interact with live animals. Admission is $5 ($4 for members); children 3 and under are free. Canceled in the event of rain. www.auburn.edu/preserve

Wednesday, July 22 Summer Adventure Camp July 20-22. Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Summer Adventure Camp brings students on three day-trips to some of the incredible natural and historic wonders that Alabama has to offer. From the highest peak in the state to the depths of first recorded caverns in the United States, Alabama is waiting to be explored! Campers will learn about nature, history, wildlife, industry, geology, archaeology, and more! In addition, campers will have the opportunity to swim, hike, climb, and explore; and learn how to paddle kayaks on Lake Martin! For rising 5th through 8th graders. www.auburn.edu/preserve

Friday, July 24 Cheers On the Corner Downtown Auburn. 6:00-10:00 PM. Each of the stops along the way will provide you with a savory bite representative of the flavors of downtown Auburn. You will also receive a complimentary souvenir glass. Corporate tents are available. Tickets and tent sponsorships will be available to purchase through our website, downtownauburnonline.com. To learn more or volunteer, please email auburnmerchants@gmail.com. Charlie Farley at Boggin’ On the Plains July 24-26. Sponsored by Speaks Offroad and Trailer Sales East Alabama Powersports and EXTREME POWERSPORTS. www.bogginontheplains.com

Friday, July 31 Michael Reno Harrell in Concert Sundilla. Advance tickets are just $15 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, and online at sundillamusic.com. Admission at the door will be $20. Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and the audience is welcome to bring their own favorite food or beverage. www.sundillamusic.com

August Futral Artifact Show 2020 Aug. 1-31. Opelika. Call or visit website for exact event date. The Futral Artifact show, which was previously known as the Dothan Artifact show, has now relocated to Opelika. The Futral Artifact Show will have multiple vendors with Indian Artifacts. Please check the Announcements page at www.futralshow.com for more info closer to the date of the show. 8 AM to 3 PM. Admission: $2.00 Donation. Children under 12 are free. SportsPlex Kids Triathlon Aug. 1. Opelika SportsPlex. The Opelika Sportsplex Triathlon for Kids will be held at the Opelika Sportsplex and Aquatics Center for ages 6-15 (5 year olds may participate in the Kids Triathlon or the Small Fry Tri). Ages 6-8: Swim 50 yards Bike 1.5 miles Run 500 yards Ages 9-11: Swim 100 yards Bike 3 miles Run 1 mile Ages 12-15: Swim 150 yards Bike 6 miles Run 2 miles Participants will compete based on their age as of 12/31/17. NO ASSISTANCE WILL BE GIVEN WHILE SWIMMING. KIDS MAY HANG ON LANE DIVIDERS, BUT MUST ADVANCE UNASSISTED. Opelika Main Street On Tap Aug. 1. Downtown Opelika, 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. The event will feature over 25 craft beer distributors and numerous food trucks on site. Opelika Main Street On Tap will be hosted along historic 1st Avenue in downtown. This event is a craft beer festival featuring representatives from over 25 craft breweries from across the nation. A selection of specialty food trucks will also be at the event. www.opelikamainstreet.com Alex City Jazz Fest Aug. 7-8. Downtown Alexander City. Music to be announced on website. Jazz Fest is one of Alabama’s longest-standing free music festivals and this year marks its 30th Anniversary. We have featured well know musicians and groups from New Orleans to California, Alabama to New York - well you get the picture! Calling all artists! www.alexcityjaszzfest.com Nature Explorers Homeschool Program Aug. 10. Details on July 13 listing. Nature Walks: Butterfiles Aug. 11. Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Join our guides for a peaceful morning walk as you take in the many sights and sounds of the Preserve. Nature Walks offer excellent opportunities to socialize and learn, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Nature Walks are for adults only from 8:30 – 9:30 AM. Pre-registration not required. www.auburn.edu/preserve Family Discovery Hike: Butterflies Aug. 11. Join our guides for an educational adventure as you and your children take in the many sights and sounds of the Nature Center. Discovery Hikes offer excellent opportunities to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Discovery Hikes are for families with children ages 5 to 12 and are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. www. auburn.edu/preserve Big Donkey Festival Aug 15. Dreamfield Farms. Enjoy a day filled with all of our pumpkin patch favorites such as the farm critters petting zoo, cow train and play areas (no pumpkins though as they won’t be ready yet). Plenty of space for the kids to run around and wear themselves out. Plenty of shady seating for those who prefer a more laid back outing. www.dreamfieldfarms.com

Please send your calendar events to Kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com! www.auburnopelikaparents.com

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

ALABAMA CHILD PASSENGER SAFETY QUICK SAFETY TIPS

• RIGHT SEAT: Check the label on your car seat to make sure it’s appropriate for your child’s age, weight and height. • RIGHT PLACE: Keep all children in the back seat until they are 13. • RIGHT DIRECTION: Keep your child in a rear facing position for as long as possible! When he or she outgrows the seat, move your child to a forward-facing car seat. • INCH TEST: Once your car seat is installed, use your non-dominate hand and shake the seat at the belt path. A properly installed seat will not move more than an inch. • PINCH TEST: Make sure the harness is tightly buckled and coming from the correct slots. Now, with the chest clip placed at armpit level, pinch the strap at your child’s shoulder. If you are unable to pinch any excess webbing, you’re good to go!

DID YOU KNOW? • Motor vehicle injuries are a leading cause of death among children in the US.

ALABAMA CHILD RESTRAINTS LAW REQUIRES CHILDREN UNDER 6 TO BE PROPERLY BUCKLED IN AN APPROPRIATE CAR SEAT OR BOOSTER SEAT. CAR SEAT RECOMMENDATIONS: • Infant only seats and convertible seats used in the rear facing position for infants until at least 1 year of age or 20 pounds. • Convertible seats in the forward position or forward-facing seats until the child is at least 5 years of age or 40 pounds. • Booster seats until the child is 6 years of age. • Seat belts until 15 years of age. *American Academy of Pediatrics recommends children remain in a rear-facing car safety seat as long as possible, until they reach the highest weight or height allowed by their seat.

FREE CAR SEAT CHECK Still have questions or concerns? For help (or to even double check your work), contact:

• Car seat use reduces the risk for injury in a crash by 71-82% for children, when compared with seat belt use alone.

Michelle Richardson (Perry, Walker, Lamar counties): (205) 554-4529

• An estimated 46% of car seats and booster seats are misused in a way that could reduce their effectiveness.

Anna Odom (Washington, Clarke, Baldwin counties): (251) 946-8012

Penny Roney (Madison, Marshall, Morgan counties): (256) 533-8712 Sharon Franklin (Macon, Elmore, Bullock counties): (334) 322-8431 Elizabeth Payne (St. Clair, Etowah, Calhoun counties): (256) 533-8712 1