Auburn Opelika Parents May 2016 by KeepSharing

May2016

Volume 7 Number 3

Columns

Publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note Kendra Sumner

Living With Children John Rosemond

Living with Children

John Rosemond shares what to do for bedtime problems with a scared child.

Ready, Set, Summer!

A little organization on the front end goes a long way in planning for a successful season.

Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

A Page in a Book

Gerry Paige Smith

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey

2016 Summer Fun

Our listing leads you to activities and fun throughout Lee County this summer!

Single Parent or Superhero?

Encouragement to ask for the help you need.

Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover Michaela Sanford is 7 years old and the daughter of retired Army Chief Warrant Officer Willie Sanford and Michelle Sanford of Opelika. Michaela is in first grade at Cary Woods Elementary School. She loves to compete in pageants, and is currently the reigning International Junior Miss Alabama Jr. Princess and will compete for a national title in July. Michaela also enjoys dancing, baton twirling, and gymnastics at Co. Thanks to Co. Athletics and Wellness for a sneak peak at the upcoming Camp Co.urage, which will include everything from gardening and crafts to tumbling!

Departments 5

Bits and Pieces 9

School Bits 46

Family Calendar 52

Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Publisher’sNote Summer is almost here! Are you marking the cal-

Auburn Opelika Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

endar days off along with your kids? I know I am! The long days of summer are almost upon us and all the fun to be had is quickly filling up a ‘Summer To-Do List’! With there only being a few days in May before that final school bell rings, it might be time to start thinking about your family’s summer plans too. With so many trips in

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.

mind, activities to plan, projects to begin and camps to attend, this summer will be one to remember! To make every minute and memory made count, the first step is to take the time to plan ahead and prepare for the best summer ever. Where do I start, you ask? Right here in the Auburn/Opelika area of course, and with this month’s magazine in hand, you are sure to make the most of Summer 2016! In our own community, there are parks, pools, book clubs, summer enrichment, sports camps and unique activities for everyone on your summer planning list to enjoy. From sundown concerts in the park, dive-in-movies and swim lessons

Publisher Kendra Sumner Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers

at the city pools, to learning how to ride a unicycle or build a robot, your kids will be

Beth N. Davis

exploring all summer long. Want to get away for a day trip of exploring other cities

Laura Handey

and communities? Check out our Summer Fun Guide and give one of our picks a

Carolyn Jabs

try! Hiking Stone Mountain, Ga., touring DeSoto Caverns, or swinging through the ropes course at Callaway Gardens may be a new adventure just waiting to happen. Are you feeling a little overwhelmed with all the fun and not sure how to make the most of your summer? Never fear…our feature article to the rescue! Ready, Set, Summer! 10 Tips for Planning a Successful Season, is a great read and includes an easy to manage way to plan out your summer without stressing yourself and your family. Two tips I plan to make use of are ‘Let your kids (and self) decompress’ and ‘Set goals’. Your kids will be overjoyed when school is out and summer begins,

Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Ellen Royal, M.D. Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

however, they need time to rest and readjust from a strict, daily school schedule to the slower pace that summertime brings. Once decompressed, they will be ready to jump into summer with both feet! Also, setting goals, even small ones, can help a family feel like they are all on the same summer page. It can be as simple as one family project like building a vegetable garden together or goals with multiple steps such as learning a new hobby like fishing, with the final step being a fishing trip to the Gulf for a last hurrah of summer! My family is ready to say goodbye to another fabulous school year and to enjoy a summer that is sure to bring fun, adventure, and some relaxation. I know your

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

family is too. Explore this month’s magazine for the perfect summer activities to put on your list, set some goals and jump on in. From one parent to another, here’s to making this summer a splash for the whole family!

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

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

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Handling Bedtime When Your Child is Scared Q: My 6-year-old daughter watched too many episodes of a certain TV show when she was sick and now she doesn’t want to go to sleep at night because she is having scary thoughts related to the show. She will come out of her room again and again complaining of these thoughts (mostly before she has gone to sleep; rarely in the middle of the night) and want to be tucked back in. How would you recommend handling this? A:

First, I must say that I hope you’ve learned something here. Sick children, especially if they are feverish, are in a mentally and emotionally vulnerable state in which they are likely to misinterpret and exaggerate the significance of otherwise mundane events. The only media they should be exposed to are media that will calm their central nervous systems. Exciting television shows of any nature do not qualify. Let me point out to the audience-atlarge that sick children actually did manage

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

to get well before television. When, as a child, I became ill, I stayed in bed, colored in my coloring books, read, and listened to the radio. In fact, I was not allowed out of bed except to use the bathroom, eat, or throw up (somewhat in that order). I have a theory: The more fun it is for a child to be sick, the more often the child will become sick. I’m not referring to manipulation; I’m talking about simple association. The answer to your question turns on how many times per night on average you have to tuck your daughter back in bed. If less than a dozen, then for Pete’s (whoever he is and wherever he may be) sake, just tuck her back in. Believe me, this too will pass. It’s nothing more than a fairly common bump in the road of rearing. In the meantime, you do not want to turn this into a “disciplinary issue” by getting upset and punishing. Just stay calm and be the parent. When she comes out of her room and says she’s afraid, calmly lead her back and do

the tucking ritual again. If you say anything, make it along these lines: “I’ve told you all I know to tell you about your scary thoughts, sweetie my lovebug [Which, in fact, you have]. I don’t have anything more to tell you [Which, in fact, you don’t]. So, let’s go back to bed.” Do not be deterred by any increase in the volume of her protests, including crying. Just tuck her in without any more talk, give her a reassuring kiss, and leave. Repeat that procedure until it “takes,” which may take a dozen times on any given night. Assuming you remain calm and resolute, I predict a two-to-three week cure; in the overall scheme of things, insignificant. It’s important that you stop talking to your daughter about her scary thoughts. As was the case when you were a child and had scary thoughts, ninety-nine percent of such things are nothing more than random and therefore meaningless “mind burps.” Talking to a child about such things increases the likelihood that the thoughts and feelings in question will worsen and become a form of drama. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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KOB’s Garden in the Park!

Wandering Through Wondrous Gardens

Keep Opelika Beautiful is planning the 2016 Garden in the Park for Saturday, May 7. The event will take place at the Opelika Municipal Park from 8 a.m. – 3 p.m. Garden in the Park is an arts festival benefiting Keep Opelika Beautiful’s community projects. Garden in the Park was started in 2006 as a fundraiser for renovations to the red caboose in downtown Opelika. Since this time, Keep Opelika Beautiful has completed all renovations for this historic structure. Funds have also been used to purchase containers for Opelika’s curbside recycling program, decorative trash cans for downtown Opelika, provide landscape renovations to a vacant lot, assist in creation of the Community Garden and beautify green spaces at Opelika City Schools. The arts festival will feature all handmade or natural items for sale. Food, children activities and entertainment will also be included in the family-friendly event. There is no charge for admissions into Garden in the Park. Food donations will be collected for the East Alabama Food Bank. Applications for arts and craft vendors and food vendors are currently being accepted. For more information about Garden in the Park, please contact Keep Opelika Beautiful at (334) 749-4970 or tipi@ keepopelikabeautiful.com.

This exciting and educational two-day tour offers private gardens with ideas for seasoned gardeners or those just beginning to seek inspiration. The 2016 tour provides opportunities to wander through the latest in landscaping innovations, new and unique plants as well as old southern favorites in a variety of settings. Gardens have been selected in Auburn, Opelika and Loachapoka to provide a wide range of beauty and thoughtful learning education experiences. Don’t miss a great weekend of events May on 14 & 15: • Two day tour of private gardens in Lee county, AL • Discover the latest landscape innovations • Bee keeping demonstrations at Sunset Farms • Japanese Maples at Willow Creek • Tips to plan and establish a garden • Lunch at Chicken Salad Chick included with ticket purchase (1346 Opelika Road, Auburn) Many child-friendly activities are being planner along with food to taste. No ticket required to enjoy this venue during the Garden Tour weekend. Ticket Information: Visit www.leemg.org to purchase tickets. Advanced group tickets (10 or more persons) are $25 and advanced single tickets are $28. Tickets purchased the weekend of the tour will be $32. For information visit www.leemg.org or email leemastergardeners@gmail.com.

Summer Runnin’

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Let’s keep our kids active this summer! Run, walk, or skip a full marathon over this summer break. The mileage increments can be as short or as long of a distance as you & your child prefer. You will receive a mileage log to keep track of the progress. When you reach 20 miles, submit your form & your race packet will be shipped to make sure everything is ready for your child’s finish line! Let’s inspire our kids to be healthy and active… and have some fun while doing it! A portion of each registration will be donated to Action for Healthy Kids. This organization fights childhood obesity, undernourishment and physical inactivity.

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“The Princess and the Frog”

Art on the Lake: Children’s Harbor, Lake Martin

Located on the serene grounds of Children’s Harbor Chapel and Hank’s Cabin - against the lapping waves of Lake Martin, this year we celebrate the Art on the Lake's 11th festival year! Last year, 47 artisans presented fine arts and handmade crafts to a crowd of more than 5,000 people. It's free to attend, though a portion of your art purchases help support Children’s Harbor in continuing its mission to provide camp, counseling and support services to children with long-term illness or trauma induced diagnoses and their families. Scheduled for Memorial Day weekend, May 28-29, Art on the Lake provides an opportunity for artists from all over the Southeast to showcase their art. Original work, including canvas, jewelry, pottery and sculpture are available for purchase with a portion of the sale benefitting Children’s Harbor. If you would like to sponsor, volunteer or make a contribution to Children's Harbor, please contact Vicki Tuggle at 334-857-2021. www.childrensharbor.com

The Academy Dance Center will present “The Princess and the Frog,” specially adapted for the students of the Academy, at the RiverCenter for the Performing Arts on Saturday, May 14th at 7:00 p.m. & Sunday, May 15th at 2:00 p.m. This enchanting tale about the hardworking and ambitious Princess Tiana, desperate to fulfill her dreams as a restaurant owner, is set on a journey to turn a frog prince back into a human being, but encounters the same predicament after she kisses him. The Jazz & Musical Theatre Dance section of the production, entitled, “The Best of Broadway,” will highlight performances of hit award winning Broadway musicals and productions from the past and present. Tickets are available for $20 each exclusively at Academy Dance Center (4300 Warm Springs Road, Columbus, GA) via their box office or by calling the office at 706-561-8085 or visiting their website at www. academydancecenter.com.

Miss Kentucky Derby Pageant

Miss Kentucky Derby pageant will be held at Storybook Farm on Friday, May 6 at 6:30 p.m. Open to any female ages 5-17 in the Lee County Area. Categories are Best Kentucky Derby Wear, and Formal Wear. Special entertainment by Auburn HS Vocal Jazz and Lee-Scott Academy Jazz Band. Emcee will be Miss Alabama 2015-16, Meg McGuffin. For more information, visit Lee-Scott Academy Facebook page.

Sundown Concert Series at Town Creek Park

Nestled in the middle of Auburn, Town Creek Park, 1150 South Gay Street, Auburn, is the perfect setting to listen to the enchanting sounds of local and regional musicians. Bring the family, a picnic, and your lawn chairs and enjoy a free, relaxing evening of entertainment before the dog days of summer set in. Speaking of…don’t forget to bring your favorite fourlegged friends! Join us every Thursday evening at 6:00 p.m. in May! FREE to the public. Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation. www.auburnalabama.org/parks. Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

Mother's Day Special: Free Admission for Mom @ The Montgomery Zoo

Celebrate Mother's Day, May 8, at the Montgomery Zoo. All moms receive FREE admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Join us and help celebrate Mother's Day. Petting Zoo; Lion Training session; Elephant keeper talk and Q&A session; Giraffe Encounter Post; Miniature train; Parakeet Cove feed sticks; Pedal Boat Rides; Zoofari Skylift Ride. Some fees apply. 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery. (334) 240-4900 or montgomeryzoo.com. www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Auburn Jr. HS Choral Program to Benefit Food Bank

Don’t miss your chance to see “Music for a Better World,” a collaboration between the Auburn Junior High School Choral Program and world-renowned musician/ clinician Dr. Kirby Shaw! The performance will take place on Saturday, April 16 from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the Auburn High School Performing Arts Center. The concert will benefit the Food Bank of East Alabama and admission will be “one can per hand.” Dr. Shaw is best known as the composer/arranger of nearly 3,000 choral compositions/arrangements in print today. FUN FACT: One of Dr. Shaw's pieces is newly arranged and not yet published, and he is dedicating that piece to the AJHS Choral Program! For more info on Dr. Shaw visit: www.kirbyshaw.com.

Summer Swing 2016

Every Tuesday evening beginning in May the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department hosts a free outdoor concert at 7:00 p.m. at Municipal Park in Opelika. This 15-week concert series offers a wide variety of musical entertainment including Gospel, Jazz, R & B, Praise and Worship, Oldies, Country, Big Band Swing, Folk, and Community Band music. The Opelika Band Boosters will prepare hamburgers and hotdogs in the park for a nominal fee from 6:15-7:30 p.m. These are ideal for a family picnic. Charter Bank of Opelika will provide complimentary lemonade during the concerts. Kona Ice will have shaved ice for sale at each concert as well. The Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train with long, rich history is being restored and will be back on the tracks in July for complimentary rides. Come out early! Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the bank of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation. For more information call the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department at 334-705-5560 or e-mail lchesser@opelika-al.gov. May 3- OHS Symphonic, Concert and Jazz Bands, May 10- LSA Jazz Band, May 17- East Alabama Community Band, May 24- Conner Lorre, Neil Diamond Tribute Artist and May 31- Route 66.

Auburn and Opelika City Pools Open for Summer

May 28- Auburn Outdoor Pools: Samford and Drake, www.auburnalabama.org May 31- Opelika Outdoor Pool: Covington, www.opelikasportsplex.com

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Summer is Well Check-Up Time If you haven’t been in to see your pediatrician in a while, chances are it is time for a well check-up. The summer months are a good time to think about coming in as schedules are more flexible and offices sees fewer sick children at this time of year. So who needs a check-up? The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends well child visits beginning at 1 week old, 1 month, 2 months, 4 months, 6 months, 9 months, 12 months, 15 months, 18 months, 24 months, 30 months, and yearly check-ups for children age 3 years and older. A Well-Child Care visit should include growth assessment, a development assessment and scheduled immunizations. Also, it is a great time to bring up questions and concerns about your child’s behavior and wellbeing as well as discuss any chronic medical issues he/she may have. Pediatricians are commonly asked to discuss eating habits, toileting, sleeping issues, attention problems and other

behavior/social issues. A well check is a great time to discuss these concerns! For our adolescent patients, a yearly check-up, though often overlooked, is still recommended. Most children will come in at 11 years for their Tetanus-Pertusis booster needed to start 6th grade. We also recommend they start the HPV series and receive Menactra at this visit. Sadly, many fail to return until their precollege physical. As pediatricians we really want to see our preteens and teenagers on a yearly basis to assess their progress through puberty and the rapid changes they experience. What vaccines are needed? A detailed schedule is available online at www.cdc.gov/vaccine. We begin vaccinating babies at birth, 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 months. Then booster shots are given at 5 years (the kindergarten shots) and again at 11-12 years. Just a word about why vaccines are so important: Fortunately, most of us have grown up in an era free of diseases like polio,

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tetanus, diphtheria, and measles. We are a generation removed from the experience of children dying from these once common diseases. Make no mistake though, these illnesses are still a threat and if we don’t continue to immunize, they will crop back up. Vaccinating your child is one of the best and most important decisions you can make to keep your child healthy. It is important to get all the facts so that you can make an informed decision. Some websites I recommend include: www.aap. org and www.cdc.gov/vaccines. Talk with your doctor about your concerns, and keep your child’s well check up appointments. Prevention is truly our best ally in the fight against infectious disease. Pediatricians and parents are a team with the common goal of keeping your child healthy. Well Care visits are a great time to develop a plan with your pediatrician to help best serve the needs of your child.

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Dr. Ellen Royal attended the University of South Alabama College of Medicine for her medical degree and graduated in 1994. She returned to Alabama the summer of 1998 to join the pediatric practice of Dr. Richard M. Freeman. Dr. Royal is a member of the Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is board certified in Pediatrics. Dr. Royal is married to Dr. Kevin Royal who practices Internal Medicine in Opelika and they have three children.

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Autauga County Schoolsof Leadership Award Thomas Sherfield Named 2016 Recipient

Opelika City Schools Attendance Officer, Thomas Sherfield was named the 2016 recipient of the Sue B. Adams Leadership Award given by the Alabama Association of Prevention Attendance and Support Services (AAPASS) at their annual Spring Conference. The award was presented to him in recognition of his outstanding service and dedication to AAPASS. “Thomas is an integral part of the Opelika program for at-risk students. He serves as a role model for many of our students in his involvement with various aspects of our school district and through his involvement in the community,” stated Dr. Brenda Rickett, Assistant Superintendent of the Opelika City Schools. “While Thomas is employed as Attendance Officer, he is so much more to the Opelika City Schools. His knowledge of attendance, discipline, and dropout prevention is an asset to our system.” Mr. Sherfield has worked with the Opelika City Schools for 12 years and serves as the Attendance Officer and a mentor within the Opelika City Schools. He also coaches Opelika Middle School football, works with the 100 Black Men of Lee County and the Boys and Girls Club, and is a presenter and teacher for the Greater Peace Youth Development Corporation. He has served as an AAPASS officer since 2012 and is the 2015-16 president of the organization. “Receiving the award has given me confirmation that what I’m doing is proper, appreciated and necessary to positively affect student lives,” said Mr. Sherfield. The Sue B. Adams Leadership Award was established in 2010 to be given annually to an outstanding AAPASS member. Dr. Adams was a pioneer in the area of Prevention and Support with the Alabama State Department of Education. Her expertise, concern and knowledge of student safety, attendance and discipline, dropout prevention and discovering ways to help all students and especially those considered “at-risk” will be remembered for years by those who were fortunate enough to work with and know her.

John Pizzarelli Visits OHS

World-renowned jazz guitarist and singer, John Pizzarelli, visited the Opelika High School Jazz Band and Band classes. He performed pieces for them and discussed his experience in the music industry.

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OHS Senior Signs Soccer Scholarship with U. of Mobile

OHS Senior Alex Phouthonesy signed a soccer scholarship with the University of Mobile on April 13. Pictured front row (l-r): Saysamone Silavanh-aunt, Alex Phouthonesy, and Sam Silavanh-uncle . Back row (l-r): Melissa Martin-Opelika Crush DOC, Coach Brian Blackmon-OHS Athletic Director, Nitda Louangkhoth-aunt, Sebastian Louangkhoth-cousin, Allen Phouthonesy-brother, Joanna Boutdy-girlfriend, Olay Phensirgi-uncle, Dr. Farrell Seymore-OHS Principal and Coach Derek Hovell-OHS Soccer Coach.

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Trinity Christian School Holds Serve-A-Thon

The upper grade students at Trinity Christian School gave of their time, labor and talents to help local ministries which included Storybook Farms, Exodus Ranch, Haddie's Home, Big House, East Alabama Food Bank, and Hosanna Home while the younger students ministered using their musical talents to residents at Arbor Springs and Camden Place.

Black History Program at West Forest

West Forest Intermediate School celebrated Black History Month by presenting a Famous Inventors Celebration. Pictured are students from Dr. Mary Clark's class portraying famous inventors. 9

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Autauga County Schools

OHS Ovations Showchoir Spring Concert to be held May 2

The Opelika High School Ovations showchoir traveled to Herscher, Illinois to compete in the Herscher Swing and Sing Showchoir Competition on March 19. Ovations won Overall Grand Champion and also received caption awards for Best Vocals and Best Choreography. Improvisations, the OHS showchoir band, won Best Combo. Make plans to see this award-winning group perform at the Ovations Spring Concert on May 2. The performance will be held at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts at 6:30 p.m. Donations will be accepted at the door.

Jump Rope for Heart at Richland Elementary

The following students raised over two hundred dollars each in our "Jump Rope for Heart" event to help our school surpass its' goal of $15,000. The Richland Champions raised $16,218.40 to benefit the American Heart Association and its fight to conquer heart disease. To date our school has raised over $65,000 to fight heart disease and stroke. Left to right: Lauren Hatley, Taylor Steen, Mackinsie Register, Charlie Burdette, Tyler Burt, Conner Downing ($825), Gracie McCoy and Katie Carr.

Auburn and Opelika Face Off in 9th Annual Soccer For a Cure

On April 2, Auburn High School boysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; and girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; soccer teams hosted Soccer For a Cure during their matches against Opelika High School. The teams raised $2,600 to benefit the Cancer Center.

Drake Middle School Hosts Financial Literacy Fair for Students

Through a partnership with Auburn University's Raymond J. Harbert College of Business, Drake Middle School hosted a financial literacy fair. Students participated in activities and games while learning about practical skills that pertain to managing and saving money. A special thank you to AU accounting students led by Dr. S. Stannic, for coordinating and providing this productive engagement with ACS students. Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

Auburn City Schools Art Show Held at Jan Dempsey

The annual Auburn City Schools Art Show hosted by the City of Auburn was a huge success! The show featured masterpieces by K-12 students from each school in ACS. The show was held at the Jan Dempsey Community Art Center located at 222 E. Drake Avenue. A reception honoring student artists, whose work was on display, was held. www.auburnopelikaparents.com

Pick Elementary Honors Star Teachers During “Hollywood Week”

Pick Elementary School PTO showed their love and appreciation for PES "Star Teachers" with a fun-filled "Hollywood Week!" Special thanks to Better Bodies Massage Center in Opelika for pampering our teachers with massages all day Monday to start the week off right! Also, thanks to D Square Donuts, Laredo Mexican Grill and Little Italy for lunches, Newk's, Serendipity and Cary Creek Nail Boutique for some of our prizes and to all of our Pick families that sent in food throughout the week for breakfast, snacks and desserts to give PES teachers the star treatment they deserve!

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Opelika Middle School Hosts 2016 Choral Festival

Opelika Middle School hosted the 2016 Choral Festival on April 1. The festival included performances by the OMS Singers, Northside Singers, Morris Avenue Singers, and the West Forest Chorus.

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

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AVERY FRYE CONNER FRYE KASSIDY FRYE RICKY HARRISON JOHN DALTON MONCRIEF TEKAJA THOMAS STEVE MOORE WALKER HOLLAND CHRISTIAN LUKE ELIZABETH BELCHER CAROLINE BELCHER PHILIP BELCHER BENJAMIN REAMS NEAL REAMS TRENT REED LILWENN SALZE WYATT STRICKLAND KEMAURI WYNN CARSON BISHOP BENTLEY ADAMS TRINITY FRANKLIN JORDYN CLOUGH DEVIN CLOUGH OMAURI THOMAS CHARIAH PHILPOT ENDYAH SIMS WILL WARE REID WARE KELSEY HOLLOWAY RUMI HEREDIA TEOTL HEREDIA RAYMI HEREDIA YARETZI HEREDIA ANTHONY RANSOM CHRISTIAN RANSOM JUKERIANA TURK KAYTLIN WILLIAMS MAKENZIE DENNEY

LE’MARTY LITTLE ASHTON LITTLE OSCAR DURAN LESLEY DURMAN TIMOTHY DUBOSE AUTUMN DUBOSE TOMMIK’A KELLY DRAKE REESE DAKOTA DUKE DRAVION GRAY CADE INGRAM CLAIR INGRAM WALTER NIMS OWEN LAWRENCE COLTON POH CONNER ELIZABETH LAY ELISE GULSBY LILY OTWELL SOMMER ERIKSEN HOLLIE JONES REED JONES MILLER REED SEUNGHEE CHO MATTHEW MOTTERN CALLIE NEWTON COLE ARNETT CHLOR ARNETT CATHERINE GRAHAM DAVIS OLIVER LUKE OLIVER CARTER SEWART

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CountyAuburn Schools HS Students Interview Auburn HS Students GetAutauga a Fatal Veterans, Record their Stories Auburn HS students conducted Vietnam Veteran interviews at AHS in Vision of commemoration of the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. This effort is in the 3rd year under Dr. Blake Busbin and approximately 140 Driving 11th Grade AP U.S. History Students have interviewed more than 60 Vietnam Vets about their experiences in combat. These interviews were recorded by Under the the students and will be sent to the National Library of Congress to become a piece of Influence

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency has teamed up with Alfa Insurance and Auburn High School to provide a "Fatal Vision Program" that demonstrates the dangers of driving while impaired. AHS Driver's Education students spent the day learning about driving while intoxicated and the consequences of operating any kind of vehicle under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol. The students were provided "Fatal Vision" goggles and administered field-sobriety test before getting behind the wheel of a John Deere Gator to attempt to maneuver through an obstacle course of orange traffic cones. The results of the obstacle course were somewhat humorous, but the approach to the topic should act as a deterrent to students who find themselves in a compromising position that can be brought on by peer pressure, bad choices or substance abuse issues. AHS is the first high school in East Alabama to offer this program as sponsored by Alfa Insurance and the Alabama Farmers Federation.

preserved history. Thank you to all the gentleman that came out to tell their stories and for their service to our country. FUN FACT: When the event concludes 12 students will have interviewed their own grandfathers about their time in the military.

www.auburn.edu/cosam/sciencematters Science Matters is a summer enrichment program sponsored by the College of Sciences and Mathematics at Auburn University for students in rising grades 1 - 8. The program offers youngsters a supercharged science experience. Kids will explore the world of science through real experiments, technology and art projects, and hands-on activities. Kids that show a high interest or aptitude in science, math, or technology-related subjects will be right at home as they design and build, dabble in the art of chemistry, and more! Science Matters offers six different science-themed weeks for students throughout the summer. All programs operate between 8am - 4pm daily. Prices start at $190 per week/child. Multiple week discounts are available. Courses fill on a first-come-first-serve basis and availability is limited! For more information, visit our website or contact: www.auburn.edu/cosam/sciencematters Kristen Bond: kristen.bond@auburn.edu 334-844-5769 Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

2016 Dates June 6-10

June 13-17

June 20-24

June 27-July 1 July 18-22

July 25-29 www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Reading Parade at Wacoochee Elementary

Wacoochee Elementary held its 2nd annual Reading Parade to celebrate Read Across America. Ms. Huntâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kindergarten class posed with Aubie and the Chick-fil-A cow who were among the many special guests in the parade.

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LaFayette HS Students Rewarded for Improvement on State Testing Scores On March 4, 30 LaFayette HS students were treated to lunch at the Valley Pizza Hut as an incentive for making great gains on State testing. These students combined scores in both math and reading were the highest in all grade levels. Here are some overall stats from our schools gains: In Reading: 177 tested, 119 met their Gains goal. 62 students increased their scores by over 200 points. 15 made gains of over 450 points. 1 made a gain of 716 points. In the fall we had 115 Far Below, now we only have 21. In the fall we only had 12 students in the Far Above gains category now we have 37. Great work, students!

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Develop Your Skills

GO ANYWHERE auburn youth programs Find Your Passion

Become a Leader For a complete listing of camps and programs, go to auburn.edu/summercamps, call 334-844-5100, or email auyouth@auburn.edu. 13

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Autauga County Schools

Lee-Scott JV Track Wins State

The Lee-Scott Academy JV Girls Team won the AISA 3A State Championship at Escambia Academy. This is the third straight title for the girls' team. Girls’ Team Pictured Front (L to R): Rosemary Mann, Kendal Hull, Mary Mykal Prewett, Kelsi Birmingham. Back (L to R): Coach Franklin Smith, Kenedi Cleveland, Haley Harper, Katherine Dudley, Carla Ingram, Reid Hollingsworth, and Coach Christy Garner. The Lee-Scott JV Boys Team was named State Runners-Up at the state meet. Boys’ Team Pictured Front (L to R): Luke Dorough, Cam Lanier, Mitchell Sanders, Henry Sheils, Chris Lyle. Back (L to R): Coach Franklin Smith, Sam Aldridge, Matthew Peak, Chasen Earnhart, Wilks Fisher, Sam Harris, Patrick McMenamin, Hagan Marlin, and Coach Christy Garner.

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FOOD, FUN, FAMILY &

SCULPTURE Celebrating the opening of

MUSEUM Homecoming Come & enjoy TAILGATE OUT OF THE BOX a juried outdoor sculpture exhibition

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3–7 PM

FREE ADMISSION. Reserve your tickets at jcsm.auburn.edu by SEPT. 25

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

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Auburn HS Senior Takes 3rd Place in State Beef Cookoff Contest

AHS Senior Megan Lange won third place at the #‎AlabamaStateBeefCookOff in Montgomery at Carver High School. Her dish was a Roasted Standing Rib Roast with Crimini Mushrooms and Rosemary. While abiding by proper ServSafe food preparation rules, Lange's dish was judged on appearance, flavor intensity palatability, healthfulness & nutritional balance. Lange represented Lee County through Auburn High School in the competition. During judging Lange was able to take advantage of an educational course on carcass fabrication and careers in the beef industry.

Got Dust? It's virtually impossible to avoid—and it can trigger an asthma attack. Asthma is characterized by excessive sensitivity of the lungs to various stimuli. Certain triggers—ranging from viral infections to allergies to irritating gases and particles in the air—can make asthma worse. Each child reacts differently to the factors that may trigger asthma.

We can help you recognize what makes your child's asthma worse and find simple solutions to reduce and avoid asthma attacks.

ChildrensAL.org/asthma

Auburn HS Students Chosen for NCWIT Award

Computer Science students, Katelyn Lee (Sophomore) and Campbell Talley (Senior), were chosen as winners of the National Center for Women and Information Technology (NCWIT) Award for Aspirations in Computing! These students are being recognized “for their computing-related aspirations and for your demonstrated outstanding aptitude and interest in information technology/computer; solid leadership ability; good academic history; and plans for post-secondary education.” (L to R): Here are Katelyn Lee, Mr. Russel Johnson (AHS Computer Teacher) and Campbell Talley.

Asthma Clinic Specialized asthma care for: l

Children with severe asthma Children with repeat hospital and/or urgent care visits l Children and families with unique asthma education needs l Children with other conditions that make asthma hard to control l

Appointments made by physician referral only. For appointments, call: 205.638.9583

ChildrensAL.org/asthma For Children’s Financial Assistance information contact 1.844.750.8950 or visit www.childrensal.org/financial-assistance

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Autauga County Schools Pick Elementary Holds Career Showcase

Trinity Christian School Celebrates Dr. Seuss's Birthday

Mrs. Robinson's kindergarten class at Trinity Christian school celebrated Dr. Seuss's birthday the week of February 29th through March 4th by having guest readers visit them each morning. The guests included the Administrator, Principal, and parents.

Pick Elementary School held a Career Showcase for students recently. Students have spent time learning about their interests and learning styles while applying knowledge of self to career research. Students heard from Auburn University Weed Scientist Dr. Joyce Ducar, Tom Spicer of Spicer's Music, Head athletic trainer for football and basketball at Auburn University Clark Pearson and many more. ACS encourages students to develop skills that will one day help them choose a career that will “showcase” their individuality and help create a happy life. Through this lesson plan students can start to set a goal to graduate from high school with an understanding of the connection between doing their best in school right now for a bright future after graduation.

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

Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!

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

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

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

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

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

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• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •

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Auburn HS Students Wins Army ROTC Scholarship Competition

Recently, Auburn University held a regional Army ROTC Scholarship competition. The contest was based on GPA, physical aptitude, and a written test. AHS's Cadet Erin Edwards was the overall winner of the competition! Among the participants, Erin had the highest score on the Army Physical Fitness Test and was the only Cadet to attain a perfect score on the written portion. For her efforts, she was awarded a 3-year full ROTC scholarship. (L to R) Pictured here is Lt. Col. Tony Benitez, Erin Edwards and Sgt. Maj. Keith Entwistle.

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Miss Alabama Speaks to Auburn Jr. HS Students About Positive Body Image

Healthy is the New Skinny - Promoting Positive Body Image at Auburn Jr. HS Meg McGuffin, current Miss Alabama and an Auburn University graduate student, spoke to 8th and 9th grade female students at Auburn Junior High School about having a positive body image of themselves and not tearing down others based on appearance. McGuffin challenged the girls to be "Fat Talk Free" by taking negative commentary of others out of their vocabulary. She said "Comparison is a thief of joy." McGuffin recently competed for the Miss America 2016 title in September 2015, was named fourth runner-up and now travels the country with her platform "Healthy is the New Skinny." 17

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Autauga County Schools Auburn City Schools Holds Banquet for Grant-Winning Teachers

Auburn City Schools held the annual FACES Banquet at the Chamber of Commerce for all 64 teachers who were awarded grants this year for special learning units they plan to implement into their lesson plans. Dr. Bruce Zutter, Venture/Science Instructor at Ogletree Elementary, was the recipient of the 2015-2016 Carol Pittard Award of Excellence! Dr. Zutter's winning grant is titled "Treasures from Heaven: Engineering Aid Drop Packages." Through this lesson plan Dr. Zutter will work with his students to design air-drop packages for disaster relief areas that can withstand the elements of weather and sustain enough damage to be not be compromised before reaching people in need. "When disasters occur around the world packages are dropped that have supplies," Zutter said. "The students will learn to make the packages drop without breaking the content and also making them visible and practical." FACES (Foundation for Auburn's Continuing Enrichment in Schools) is the foundation organization partnering with Auburn City

Schools to provide resources for innovative classroom opportunities for students. This year approximately $35,000 was awarded among the 64 teachers, which was raised from the proceeds of the Boda Getta BBQ competition that is hosted by the Chamber of Commerce and the Auburn Rotary Club.

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Cary Woods Service Project Benefits Animal Rescue

The students at Cary Woods collected items for the For Paws Rescue as part of their winter service project. Pictured, they are getting ready to load up their sponsor's cars for delivery.

AHS Varsity Singers Place 4th at Grand Ole Opry

The AHS Varsity Singers performed at The Grand Ole Opry the weekend of April 1-2, where they were named 4th Runner-Up overall! Congratulations to Hayden Johns - Best Female Soloist, and Maggie Carter - Best Female Dancer.

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Opelika Middle School Students Bring Home Big Awards from GEARSEF

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Opelika Middle School students proudly represented Opelika City Schools at the Greater East Alabama Regional Science and Engineering Fair (GEARSEF) this year at Auburn University. Abby Dixon won 2nd Place in Physical Science; Raelee Fenn won 2nd Place and Denson Gould won 3rd Place in Animal and Plant Science; Hannah Hill won 1st Place, Kaitlynn Goodman won 2nd Place, and Harper Hollon won 3rd Place in Behavior and Social Sciences; Estefania Valencia won 3rd Place in Medicine and Health; and Kylin Perry won the Broadcom Master’s Special Award. Pictured are the Opelika City Schools GEARSEF winners.

Trinity Christian School’s Fifth Graders Dissect Sheep Heart

On Monday, March 7, Trinity Christian School’s fifth grade students dissected a sheep's heart as a part of their pulmonary studies. Dr. Robert Medeiros from East Alabama Medical Center generously volunteered his time to answer questions and to assist the students with their dissections. Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

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Kumon Students Awarded for Success

Christine was recently recognized for studying 3 years above grade level and earning the Kumon G by 5 award in reading. Christine attends Lee-Scott Academy. Jisung is a dedicated mathlete at Olgetree Elementary. He recently earned his Kumon G by 5

award and is currently studying algebra. A student at Pick

T r i n i T y

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

A c c o u n tA b i l i t y Accredited by the Association of Classical and Christian Schools, Trinity is marked by a culture of hard work and the highest standards for conduct, spiritual growth, and academic achievement.

Elementary, Linnea received the highest Kumon achievement for completing the reading program. Starting at age 4, she learned prereading skills at Kumon and progressed to reading Shakespeare.

A Classical and Christian Academy 745-2464

www.tcsopelika.org

Auburn City Schools Win Big at Science Engineering Fair

Auburn City Schools won first in every category they entered at the Science Engineering Fair at Auburn University in early March. The following students advance to the State Fair at the University of Alabama at Huntsville, March 31-April 2: Sydney Hamilton (Drake), Sejal Srivastava (AJHS), Nikitha Sridhar (AJHS), Mamecheikh Ka (AJHS), Noel Lange, (AJHS), Megan Lange (AHS), Rahul Lall (AHS), Alexis Jones (AHS), and Addison Meeks (AHS). Rahul Lall, an 11th grader at AHS, advances directly to INTEL International Science and Engineering Fair. This year's event will be held in Phoenix, Arizona on May 8-14. Auburn University covers all of Rahul's expenses to attend INTEL ISEF as representatives of GEARSEF Auburn University and Auburn City Schools. This is the second year in a row Rahul has won “Best in Fair” at GEARSEF and advanced to ISEF. This will be Rahul’s third year participating at INTEL ISEF. Last year, Rahul won third place in Mechanical Engineering at the International fair. Megan Lange, a senior at Auburn High School, has also advanced to INTEL ISEF the last three years. 19

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Autauga County Schools

Auburn HS Aquaculture Science Program Receives Recognition

The Aquaculture Science program at Auburn High was recently recognized as the "Best Environmental Education School Course or School Curriculum" by the Environmental Education Association of Alabama. The EEAA, is a non-profit group comprised of educators and professionals involved in teaching about the environment and is an affiliate of the North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE).

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Breakfast with Dads at Cary Woods Elementary

AHS Head Football Coach Adam Winegarden was the guest speaker at Cary Woods Elementary's Breakfast with Dads recently. Winegarden talked about his experiences of being father and how he always wants to foster his four kid's passions. He encouraged dads to explore and develop their kid's interest by being involved in their lives. He challenged the kids to set character goals such as respect for others, being responsible for their actions and working hard in the classroom. This year's theme for Auburn High football is R1SE, which entails raising expectations in all areas of life while demanding excellence and developing healthy daily habits.

Trinity Christian School's Tennis Season Begins

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Over the past two years, the Trinity Christian School’s tennis team has won numerous state and region titles. With eighteen players from seventh through twelfth grades, this year’s team is doing all they can to defend the school’s strong reputation on the court. With several returning champions, Trinity will compete in the GICAA Region and State tournaments in late April.

Trinity Presents Spring Exordium On Wednesday, March 30, parents and grandparents were invited to attend the Spring Exordium at Trinity Christian School where kindergarten through fifth grades presented a program of recitation and song of what has been learned throughout the school year.

Please send school news and photos to:Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com. Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

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ACS Student Signs to Play Golf at St. Mary’s College

ACS had the pleasure of hosting Julia McAlindon’s signing today to play golf at St. Mary’s College. Seated left to right: James McAlindon (brother), Bob McAlindon (father), Julia McAlindon, Sherri McAlindon (mother) Standing left to right: Clay McCall ( Auburn High School Athletic Director), Phil Lindsey (Auburn High School Varsity Girls Golf Coach) Will Blackmon (Golf Instructor).

Transportation Day at Jeter Primary Kindergarten

Jeter Primary Kindergarten students had fun on transportation day. The students learned about a variety of vehicles including bucket trucks, limousines and police cars.

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Earning a Gray Belt in Jiu Jitsu

Auburn Jiu Jitsu has their first belt promotion! After working hard for 6 months learning self defense moves in Jiu Jitsu, students earn their first belt: gray belt! 21

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Autauga County Schools

Water Festival Names Northside T-shirt Design Winner

Allie Prescott from Northside Intermediate was named the winner of the Water Festival T-shirt contest. Her art piece was printed on the Water Festival t-shirts given to every student that attended. The festival was held at Auburn University and all fourth-graders from across Lee County attended.

AHS Wrestler Honored at City Council Meeting

Auburn High School Wrestler Khaleel Johnson was honored at tonight's Auburn City Council for going 44-0 this year with 27 pins and 83 takedowns for the AHS Wrestling team. The takedown is the time when a wrestler has an advantage over his opponent. With the 83 takedowns, he was never taken down this year and was only reversed 1 time in 44 matches. Khaleel won every match this year with complete domination. He is one of the best wrestlers in the state this year and one of the best wrestlers in Auburn High School history. Johnson, who wrestles in the 132-pound weight class in 7A, dominated Mountain Brook's Drew Reed 10-5 to capture the state title at the Von Braun Center in Huntsville on February 20. Johnson said he can't even count how many hours of training he's put in over the years and is still pondering whether he will continue wrestling in the future. For Johnson, the state title is the culmination of years of hard work. He got his start in wrestling as a seventh grader in Burlington, New Jersey, but said he has wanted to wrestle since the fourth grade. Here is Johnson with Coach Chris Spencer (left) and Mayor Pro-Tem Ron Anders. FUN FACT: Johnson is the first All-American in AHS wrestling history as well!

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OHS Indoor Drumline Places Third at Championship

Opelika Indoor Drumline received 3rd Place in the GIPA Circuit Championships. Opelika City Schools is so proud of their hard work and dedication.

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

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Mobile Planetarium at Carver Primary

The Coca-Cola Space Science Center brought a mobile planetarium to Carver Primary School to teach the students about space. Pictured is Ms. Wilson's class discussing what they learned in the planetarium.

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

Bikeology at Morris Avenue Intermediate

CLIMB A TREE • HIKE A TRAIL

• Swim • Fish • Learn the Bible • Three yummy meals a day

Morris Avenue Intermediate fifth-grade students have begun their Bikeology curriculum and are looking forward to riding the bikes in the spring.

An exciting one-week overnight camping experience

That’s FREE for boys and girls ages 7 - 11

Signup Information: 706-322-8267 or www.valleyrescuemission Valley Rescue Mission 2903 2nd Ave, Columbus, GA 23

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Autauga County Schools

Grandparents Day at Trinity Christian School

After enjoying the Exordium presentation on March 30, parents and grandparents of Trinity's grammar school students were invited to visit classrooms to learn more about the knowledge gained throughout the year. Afterward, delicious breakfast was provided for all guests.

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Dufner Dash at West Forest and Carver

Thanks to Jason Dufner and the Jason Dufner Charitable Foundation for supporting the students at West Forest Intermediate and Carver Primary schools. The Dufner Dash was awesome!

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

OHS Senior Signs Soccer Scholarship with SCAD

OHS Senior Signs Cross Country Scholarship with Jacksonville State U.

OHS Senior JArthur Grubbs signed a soccer scholarship with Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) on April 13. Pictured front row (l-r): Vertrina Grubbs-mother, JArthur Grubbs, III, and JArthur Grubbs, Jr.-father. Back row (l-r): Coach Brian BlackmonOHS Athletic Director, Madison Ashley Grubbs-sister, Coach Derek Hovell-OHS Soccer Coach and Dr. Farrell Seymore-OHS Principal.

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

OHS Senior Hayden Washburn signed a cross country scholarship with Jacksonville State University. Pictured front row (l-r): Russell Washburn-father, Hayden Washburn, and Jennifer Washburn-mother. Back row (l-r): Dr. Farrell Seymore-OHS Principal, Coach Brian BlackmonOHS Athletic Director, Kristin Blatt- OHS Cross Country Coach, Mitchell Washburn- brother, Coach Jimmy Johnson- OHS Track Coach.

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Auburn City Schools Students Compete in State Science Fair

The following ACS students competed in the State Science Fair at the University of Alabama at Huntsville, March 31-April 2. The students were awarded numerous special awards, too many to list. Sydney Hamilton - Third Place Engineering, Junior Division/AJHS. Sejal Srivastava Fourth Place Medicine, Junior Division/AJHS. Nikitha Sridhar - Fourth Place Medicine, Junior Division/AJHS. Mamecheikh Ka - Third Place Physics and Astronomy, Senior Division/AHS. Noel Lange – Third Place Environmental Engineering, Senior Division/AHS. Megan Lange - First Place Environmental Engineering, Senior Division/AHS. Rahul Lall - Second Place Engineering: Mechanics, Senior Division/AHS. Alexis JonesFirst Place Biochemistry, Senior Division /AHS. Addison Meeks - Honorable Mention, Behavioral & Social Sciences, Senior Division/AHS. Nikitha Sridhar was awarded the “Best in Fair” award for the Junior Division/AJHS. Alexis Jones, a 10th grader at AHS, was awarded “Best in fair” and advances to INTEL International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) along with 11th grader Rahul Lall. This year's event will be held in Phoenix, Arizona on May 8-14. UAH covers all of Alexis’s expenses to attend INTEL ISEF as representatives of UAH, the state fair, and Auburn City Schools.

Auburn High School Mountain Bike Team Takes First Place at Huntsville “Space Race”

For the third race in a row, the AHS Mountain Bike Team outscored the other teams in Alabama to take home First Place at the Huntsville “Space Race”. AHS is leading the league in points and is in first place. In addition to winning, several of the athletes from both the AHS and Lee County Composite team reached the podium. The following athletes were on the podium: Back row left to right: Ryan Thornton (LC) 1st, Justin Walker (AHS) 4th, Will Goodling (AHS) 3rd, Courtney Clark (LC) 2nd, Aly Roland (LC) 1st, John

Thomas Arnold (LC) 5th, Will Anderson (AHS) 4th. Front row, left to right: Madison Bevis (AHS) 1st, An Mei Ellisor (AHS) 3rd, Conner McCormick (AHS) 5th, Hannah Crews (AHS) 3rd, Will Fuller (LC) 2nd, Emily Arnold (AHS) 2nd, and Calen Paleologos (AHS) 3rd. The state championship, “Crank Down in Tiger Town,” will be held at home in Chewacla State Park on May 15.

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Autauga County Schools Career Tech Students at AHS and AJHS Recognized for Hard Work

Career Tech Students of the Semester at Auburn High and Auburn Junior High were congratulated for their hard work in and out of the classroom. The criteria for selection is based on multiple characteristics such as grades, leadership, integrity, attitude and overall work ethic. A committee comes together each semester to read the submissions written by these student's teachers detailing how they see each student nominated go above and beyond what is expected of them. Pictured, left to right: Jonathan Barrett is in Mrs. Fargason's finance class. Jonathan is amazingly eager to learn and works incredibly well with all of his peers. He currently takes both personal finance and entrepreneurship and he is an active participant in both classes. Zach Hunter is in Mr. Mullins Agriscience class. Zach is a student that represents ACS and Agriscience Education in a positive way. He is Vice President of the FFA and is willing to help anyone that needs a helping hand. Joseph Kim is in Lt. Col. Benitez's JROTC program. Cadet Captain Kim has been an outstanding performer in JROTC and has the highest grade in the program, while always setting a standard in terms of appearance and conduct. Megan Waters is in Mrs. Duncan's culinary arts class. Megan is always professional in the culinary lab and exhibits a vast knowledge of kitchen skills, communication skills, and is a joy to have in the class. She has created a beautiful blog for her Culinary II class and has also been willing to help some of the others with their blogs. Finally, she shows just how much she cares about our lab by routinely cleaning and organizing items outside of her normal responsibilities. Assatusano Kante is in Mr. Caldwell's health sciences class. Assatusano has been one of the best students Mr. Caldwell has had in his short tenure at AHS. Caldwell stated that Assatusano makes some of highest grades in his class. Sam Batchelor is in Mrs.

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

Caring for your children and laying a foundation for their growth and success has been our calling for the past 25 years. Our unique, caring approach is rooted in an understanding that each child is a gift and a responsibility. These precious little ones deserve our attention, security and love. Just like home. Today, our commitment to your children continues with caring and experienced teachers, a stimulating and secure environment and an atmosphere of living, loving and learning youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll only find at Growing Room. 334-501-2044 | 644 North Dean Road, Auburn, AL M-F 6:30am - 6:30pm | Ages 6 weeks â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 12 years

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Marshall's Business Management class and he truly understands the benefits of developing professional skills in the workplace. Sam is a student who is consistently early with submitting his course assignments. He shows a strong work ethic in school and on his job and shows an interest in moving himself and others forward. Edward Robertson is in the Aquaculture program with Mr. Stan Arington and he was selected by the committee to be the overall CTE Student of the Semester at AHS. Edward is currently completing the Senior Research class in the Aquaculture Science Education Program and will graduate in May. He has consistently proven to be a leader in each of the prerequisite classes. His peers look to him for leadership in many matters concerning the Aquaculture Program. He serves as President of the Auburn Student Fisheries (CTSO) and is also a member of the Science Club. Off campus Ed’s discipline and work ethic is displayed in his continued improvement of his own martial arts skills and as an instructor, teaching young children the discipline and skill as well. Ed is committed to learning as much as he can about aquaculture and fisheries science. His Senior Research Project has involved learning how to efficiently grow tilapia by building and operating closed recirculating systems at his home. Caleb Kantor is in Mrs. Jacque Middleton’s Robotic Class and was chosen as the overall CTE Student of the Semester at AJHS. When Caleb walks into Robotics he smiles is from ear to ear. Automation and Robotics is his niche. His peers argue about who he will partner with. Students have actually had a push-up competition to have Caleb as a partner. Harley Baker is in Precision Machining with Mr. Brogan. Harley has consistently been one of his best students in both intro to manufacturing and intro to milling and drilling. As a group leader for our golf cart project he has performed very well leading by example, coordinating tasks and motivating his group members. In machining class he has shown a perseverance and commitment to working through and figuring out problems. Group photo (L to R): Carey Holland with Alabama Power, Austin Downey, Katelyn Wiersma, AJHS Principal Ross Reed, Caroline Brandt, Sara Pacer, CTE Director Laura Bailey and CTE Committee Chair Jack Burkhalter. These are all career prep students of the semester at AJHS with their principal and CTE Committee members. Kiara MacDonald is in Mr. Casarona’s engineering class and is outstanding in every aspect of the criteria of the honor. She is consistent in her performance at the highest level. Sydney MacDonald is in Mr. Cox’s Advertising/Digital Design class. Sydney is the golden standard for Digital Design class. She has that amazing, yet elusive, combination of admirable effort blended with outstanding talent.

WE MAKE YOUR SMART KID EVEN

SMARTER Give your child an academic advantage this summer! Kumon Math & Reading Center of Auburn-Opelika 1550 Opelika Rd, #9, Auburn, AL 36830

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A Page in a Book Great Books in the Forecast A child’s perception of weather is vastly different from the adult experience. Long before they grow into the tasks of driving in downpours, bringing in plants before a hard freeze or pruning tree limbs that are pushed against windows by wind, children will experience weather with a much simpler and innocent sense of wonder. Unafraid of rain on their skin, delighting in kite weather and simply mad with excitement as the first snow of winter approaches, kids see the potential for adventure in nature’s changing moods. The following titles celebrate special weather conditions through the eyes of children who see fun in the forecast!

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Tap Tap Boom Boom

by Elizabeth Bluemle, Illustrated by G. Brian Karas (Candlewick Press) The city sidewalks are crowded with pedestrians as the first droplets of rain presage the storm that’s about to break. The tapping tempo of the rain punctuated by the booming thunder provides the constant score behind the bustling of people rushing to escape the weather. With sparse text that reads a bit like beat poetry, the hypnotic sounds and rhythms of a thunderstorm drive the narrative of controlled chaos among strangers who are now merging together with a common goal of escaping the deluge. Refreshing in its approach, Tap Tap Boom Boom explores weather through the actions and reactions of the people caught in its wake.

When the Wind Blows

by Linda Booth Sweeney and Jana Christy (G.P. Putnam’s Sons / Penguin) When the wind picks up outside his door a young boy beckons his grandma to accompany him on a journey that will make the most of every breeze! From kites flown above the hillside to a gusty walk along the seashore, they experience together all the ways that wind touches every part of their world. Each two-page spread of rainbow-colored edge-to-edge illustrations is anchored by a simple quartet of noun/verb pairings. The sparse wording is just enough to whisper the sense of wind to the reader. Touching on the full sensory experience associated with being buffeted by breezes, this title is the soothing narration of a rich journey through a windy afternoon.

Snow

by Sam Usher (Templar Books / Candlewick) There is something uniquely maddening about having to wait for grown-ups before venturing outside after a new snowfall. If you need a slow-moving adult to facilitate your snow day experience, time can seem to be literally frozen. When one young boy must wait on his Grandpa to accompany him out into the new snow, he pleads for speed as he monitors the snow through the windows. In the beginning, he wants to be the first kid making tracks in the snow, but as time slowly passes he’s becoming worried that he will be the last in his neighborhood to step into the winter wonderland. It’s only when his Grandpa finally gets ready to venture out, that the snowy adventure in store for them both makes the waiting worthwhile!

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

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Q. We have two daughters, and

we’ve started thinking about financial planning for college. What are the differences between an Education Savings Account and a 529 plan?

A. The Education Savings Account

(ESA) is limited to $2,000 per year, per child. It has complete flexibility, meaning you can invest it in whatever you like and you can move it—roll it over— to another one if you don’t like that mutual fund, as an example. I use that example because I recommend using good growth stock mutual funds and that you do this for the first $2,000 invested per year. There are several types of 529 plans, and there’s only one that I would recommend. It’s the kind that has complete flexibility, where you control the investments. Some states have 529 plans that are prepaid tuition, and I never recommend those. You don’t want the state managing anything for you, because you won’t get anywhere near the returns you’d get if you managed it yourself. Other types of 529s lock you into a certain kind of investment the whole time, or they move the investment based on the age of your kid. I don’t want anybody doing that crap. I want you controlling your money. Most of the 529s vary somewhat from state to state, but the majority have flexibility that allows you to control the investment while contributing up to $10,000 a year. Both those and the ESAs grow completely tax-free on the growth as long as they’re used for higher education. They can also be transferred to a sibling if the kid doesn’t go to school, so a little brother or sister can use the money. If they get scholarships, make sure you keep up with the value of these. You’ll be allowed to withdraw that amount and refund yourself for the scholarship amount without penalty or taxes on the amount withdrawn. In short, both the ESA and 529 are fine ways to save for college. Just make sure if you’re doing a 529 that you choose the kind you control from top to bottom!

course for legitimate job hunter sites—are scams. I’m talking about the businessin-a-box kind of stuff and everything else. And I know you’ve seen the postings online that go something like, “My sister-in-law makes $50 an hour from home, and you can, too!” These scammers are the worst of the worst. Don’t waste a second of your time on that garbage. My biggest worry is that you’re looking at your career the wrong way. Just making money

shouldn’t be the measuring stick of success in your professional life. Whether you’re going to start a home business or work in an office for someone else, your work should engage you in doing something you know about and love. You spend too many hours of your life at work to be miserable in what you do. Shuffling day after day through a job you don’t like— even one with a big paycheck attached—is also a bad idea. Sooner or later the fact that you don’t like your work is going to catch up with you on the job and at home. Think of something you love to do, then get creative and find a way to make money at it. It may mean turning a hobby into a parttime gig nights and weekends for starters. Who knows, with a lot of hard work and a little creativity, you could be your own boss in no time!

Q. I’ve always wanted to work from home. How can I separate the scams online and on television from real jobs where I can make money?

A. The vast majority of things you see in late-night infomercials and online—except of 29

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Whether your goal is to help your child bridge an achievement gap, have them acquire a new skill or simply get some extra help around the house, planning for a successful summer is entirely within your reach. Below are 10 tips to get you started.

Give Yourself Time - Planning out a fun and productive summer for your family won’t happen overnight. You need to give yourself time to make a plan. If you start before summer vacation kicks off, you will maximize the potential of your ideal activities actually happening. Frantic, last minute planning will cause you undue stress. Set Goals - The potential to fritter away long, hot, lazy days is incredibly tempting and the time will fly by without anything to show for it if you don’t set goals. Whether you have one child or five, be sure to sit down with each one to discuss their ideas as well as your expectations for the summer. Set 3-5 concrete goals for each member of your family and be sure to check progress weekly.

Let Your Kids Decompress - Once

summer has kicked off, give your kids a little bit of breathing room. They have been in a classroom for six plus hours each day and they have earned a break. Before you begin the weekly schedule of activities that you have planned, give your kids a weekend to just relax. It will help ease the transition into the new season and allow you to get started on a good foot.

Change Up House Rules - Whether your kids are in camp or at home, it’s time to reboot house rules. Account for things like bedtimes for younger kids, whether older children are allowed to have friends over while you are out and any chores the kids are expected to do. All responsible parties, your spouse and supplemental child care, should be aware of the expectations and rules. Prepare for Projects Ahead of Time - When you plan to teach your

five year old to swim or produce a scale model of the Eifel Tower out of popsicle sticks with your seventh grader, you have to have the materials and the know how to get it done. When setting your goals and planning activities, be sure you know what it will take to meet each goal. Don’t set yourself up for failure when success is just a few mouse clicks away.

Shop Once a Week - Sit down and make a schedule of all of the activities, projects, playdates, chores and obliga-

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tions you have for a given week. Make up a meal plan that flows with your schedule and figure out exactly what you need from which stores. Once you have your list, choose the most convenient day for your errands and knock them out in one morning or afternoon. Once you’ve done the front end work, be sure to stick with your plan as best you can. This strategy will save you time, money and the frustration of being out of popsicle sticks when you go to construct that Eifel Tower.

Organize to Fit Your Needs - When school gets out, be sure that you have all of the materials and supplies you will need for the day to day. Do an inventory check and if you’re missing items, put them on your shopping list. Gather things that will be used together into a central location and be sure that the essentials are at hand and easy to retrieve. Set things up so that the kids can help themselves as much as possible. It may be summer, but you are not their servant. A little organization will go a long way. Team Up With Childcare - If you

are home with your kids in the summer, chances are that you are going to need a break, and if you don’t have them signed up for camp, you definitely will. Talk to other moms in your community, particularly the ones who have similarly aged children, and see if you can set up a kid swap. You watch their kids for an afternoon and they return the favor. No babysitter costs and you get the chance to do your errands in peace.

Take Personal Days - If you work full

H&G Horse Quarters 2016 Camp

Reassess Weekly - Making a plan is only the first step in having a successful summer. The most important step is to reassess what you’re doing each week and make sure that you change the things that are causing you and your family problems. If there is a childcare swap that never seems to pan out, move on from it. If you failed to account for the rain that washed out three of your planned pool days last week, make a backup plan for this week. Success takes some planning and a little bit of work on the front end, but your family will thank you as they experience the best summer yet. AOP

HGHorseQuarters@gmail.com - or -

334-887-0026 Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

time outside of the home, be sure to take a few personal days to spend some quality time with your family. Whether you take the time to go on a vacation, do a day trip with the kids, or just hang around the house, enjoy the presence of your family. You also need some breathing room in the summer.

Beth N. Davis writes from Rockville, MD where she and her husband are raising their four children.

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Dressing in Comfort and Style for Your Favorite Theme Park Vacation Yes, the title is long, but it’s something all of us ladies wonder...can we actually have style and comfort when it comes to family vacation? Well, I recently experienced this with my family. I will say I packed way too much! So while I break down the 411 on your comfiest and fashion forward theme park style I’m also going to show you how to keep your packing to a minimum.

can pair with your shorts or workout attire.

4- Understand you will be walking... A LOT! Alright ladies, I want to stress this to you...you will walk/run a lot, which is

2- Workout clothes

In case it’s a little cooler in the mornings you might want to pack some light scarves with a fun print, jackets, sweaters, cardigans and workout jackets. If you are traveling in the summer, of course you need to keep your style a little cooler. Flip flops are not easy to walk around in all day long, so find a stylish summer walking shoe that you

6- Take a backpack. This is great to pack refreshments like water and a few snacks to save you money and time standing in lines, but it also allows you to pack extra layers that you need to add on or take off throughout the day.

I always pack one or two “going out” outfits, but honesty we never go out on these trips. We are all so exhausted from the day that we just want to go to bed. So pack according to the season as stated above. See if your accommodations have a washer and dryer and take your own detergent. If no washer is available just wash your items in the hotel sink if needed! Pack light, with layers. If you feel the need to take a nice outfit, take one pair of pants or a skirt and change out your blouse or jewelry. Just keep it simple.

This is first and foremost. Don’t think comfort can’t be stylish.

3- Light layers

If it’s from a ride or just sweat, just plan on getting wet. This is why wearing the most comfortable and fast drying articles of clothing is extremely important. Take a poncho or light rain jacket that you can pack away in your backpack for all those wet rides.

7- Packing lesson learned; I packed way too much!

1- Comfort

My choice for comfort was wearing my favorite workout pant. I paired them with my everyday wear like a t-shirt, sweater, scarf or light cardigan. They were also sweat and water resistant.

5- You will get wet.

why it’s very important to find a comfortable and stylish shoe that will go with the majority of clothes you packed. Don’t think you can wear your favorite heels and survive. You wouldn’t believe how many women I saw wearing heels. They looked really cute, but I’m quite sure their feet felt terrible by the end of the day. Running around with kids and standing in line for 45 minutes to an hour in heels is asking for trouble when it comes to enjoying your theme park adventures. 33

Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern. com or visit her website and read her blogs at www.centsiblysouthern.com.

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Arts/Crafts

Decide where your young artist fits best and then choose your date for summer camps! Fundamentals: May 30-June 2, July 11-14, 10:00am-12:30pm, Ages 5 and up, $115. Beyond the Basics: June 6-8, June 27-29, 10:00am-2:00pm, Ages 7 and up, $155. All Girls Camp: June 20-22, July 18-20, 10:00am-2:00pm, Ages 7 and up, $155. Calendar Camp: June 13-16, July 25-28, 10:00am-1:30pm, Ages 5 and up, $155

Auburn Parks and Recreation (ad on page 23)

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center - 501-2963 Kids Can Draw Basics- June 14-17, 2:30-4:00pm, Ages 8-12; Fee $45. Kids Can Draw: Terrific Toons- June 20-24. 2:30-4:00pm, Ages 8-12; Fee $55. Kids Can Draw: Even More Terrific Toons- June 27-July 1, 2:30-4:00pm, Ages 8-12; Fee $55. Kids Can Draw: Basic Intermediate-July 5-8, 2:30-4:00pm, Ages 8-12; Fee $55. Kids Can Draw: Chilling with ChibisJuly11-15, 2:30-4:00pm, Ages 8-12; Fee $55. Kids Can Draw: Manga Monsters- July 18-22, 2:30-4:00pm, Ages 8-12; Fee $55. Kids Can Draw: Cartoon Chibi Mashup- July 25-29 , 2:30-4:00pm, Ages 8-12; Fee $55. Kids Can Draw: Kawaii Chibi Mashup- Aug 1-5, 2:30-4:00pm, Ages 8-12; Fee $55. Creative Kids: June 20-24, 9:00-11:00am, Age 7-10; Fee $130 plus materials. As You See It: May 23-27, 9:00am-12:00pm, Ages 10-14; Fee $150 plus materials. Chinese Painting, Calligraphy, Origami, and Learn Chinese: June 6-10, 9:00am-12:00noon, Ages 10-14; Fee $150 plus materials. Acrylic Painting: June 13-17, 9:00am-12:00pm, Ages 10-14; Fee $150 plus materials. Kids Can Paint: Amazing Animals- June 14-16, 4:30-6:10pm, Ages 8-12; Fee $85. Kids Can Paint: Lovely Landscapes- July 5-7, 4:106:10pm, Ages 8-12; Fee $85. Kids Can Paint: Tremendous Tigers- Aug 2-4, 4:306:30pm, Ages 8-12; Fee $85. Teens Can Draw: Basic Drawing- June 20-24, 4:306:00pm, Ages 11-18; Fee $55. Teens Can Draw: Intermediate Drawing- June 27-July 1, 4:30-6:00pm, Ages 11-18; Fee $55. Teens Can Draw: Realistic Animals- July 11-15, 4:306:00pm, Ages 11-18; Fee $55. Teens Can Draw: Realistic People - July 18-22, 4:306:00pm, Ages 11-18; Fee $55. Teens Can Draw: Realistic Animals/People II- July 2529, 4:30-6:00pm, Ages 11-18; Fee $55. Ceramics Studio- Dean Rd. Rec. Center, 501-2944 Day in Clay: June 25, 1:00-4:00pm. By the Book: Animal Antics- Wednesdays, July 6-20, 9:00-10:30am; Ages 4-6yrs. Fee $60 plus materials. Fantasy in Clay- June 30-July 19, 1:00-2:30pm; Ages 7-12, $100 plus materials. Help Bowl Over Hunger Session 1: June 15-29, 10:0011:30am; Ages 8-14, $65 plus materials. Help Bowl Over Hunger Session 2: July 6-20, 2:003:30pm; Ages 8-14, $65 plus materials. Wheel Thrown Pottery for the Young Potter: June 30-July 26, 9:00-11:00am; Ages 12-17, $120 plus materials.

Jule Collins Smith Museum Art Clubs (ad on page 14)

901 East University Drive, Auburn. 844-1484; www.jcsm.auburn.edu K-12 Art Clubs welcomes kindergarten through high school students. Activities are designed for younger students (K-2nd grade), middle students (3rd-6th Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

The Art Studio

grade) and older students (7th-12th grade). We invite parents to spend some time with our education specialist to learn techniques for making art part of your family fun. Materials, lesson plans, and ideas will be available at each event for parental consideration. Log onto website for club topics, descriptions and to register your child.

Columbus Museum

1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus, Ga. 706-748-2562 www.columbusmuseum.com June 13-17: Art for Beginners. Ages 5-7yr s. June 20-24: Sports and Art. Ages 8-10 yrs. June 27-July1: Passionate about Painting. Ages 5-7yrs. July 11-15: Art and Science. Ages 5-7yr s. July 18-22: Art and Science. Ages 8-10 yrs. July 25-29: Art and Nature. Ages 11-13yrs. Second Saturday- May 14, June 11, July 9, and August 13 10am-12noon, Free. Fantastic Fridays-June 10, June 17, June 24, July 8, July 15 and July 22. 10am.

Opelika Parks and Recreation

All classes, 705-5560 or for pottery classes, 705-5558 Summer Crafts- June 8, 3:00-4:30pm; Ages 4-7, $10. I Love Art Camp- July 11-15. 9-10:15am; Ages 3-5, $50. Art Studio- July 11-15. 10:30-11:45am; Ages 6-9, $50. Art Camp- July 26-28. 8am-12pm; Ages 8-12, $25. Cerami Kids I- June 6- Aug 4; Mondays, 3:30-4:30pm; Ages 6 & up, $30. Cerami Kids II- June 6-Aug 4; Tuesdays, 3:30-4:30pm; Ages 6 & up, $30. Cerami Kids III- June 6-Aug 4; Wednesdays, 3:30-4:30pm; Ages 6 & up, $30. Cerami Kids IV- June 6-Aug 4; Thursdays, 3:30-4:30pm; Ages 6 & up, $30. Ceramin Kids (Homeschoolers)- 1:00-2:00pm. Ages 6 & up, $30. Parent and Me Clay- Wednesdays, 5:30-7:00pm; Ages 9 and up. $60. Kids Pottery- Mondays , Wednesdays, or Thursdays, 3:30-5:00pm; Ages 9 and up, $60.

Sew-thern Belles Sewing Studio

923-J Stage Road, Auburn. sewthernbelles@gmail. com; 229-869-6775 “Kids Can Sew” program for children 3rd grade and up. We offer a structured, fun environment where children learn while having a blast! Spaces are limited.

Spirited Art Auburn

3051 Fredrick Road, Suite 8, Opelika. 363-5257; www.myspiritedart.com/auburn

120 S. Ross Street, Auburn www.michellemotleygiddens.com/camps Summer Art Camps: Rising 1st-6th Graders, June-July, Monday-Friday, 9:00am-12:00pm. $140/wk. Students will experience a wide variety of mediums in fine art. Students will learn innovative art techniques that provides a thorough and comprehensive learning experience. Camps are grade specific and include independent work as well as hands on instruction. Artists covered include Henri Matisse, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keefe, Piet Mondrian, Wassily Kandinsky and many more! An art show will be held last day of camp.

Uptown Art Uncorked

2436 East University Drive, Auburn. 209-1188 www.uptownart.com Adult, family and kids classes offered. Classes include all supplies. Kid’s classes are for 5-12 year olds and classes up to 25 kids per session. Birthday, bridal, girls night out parties too. Calendar available on line for class and party registration.

Book Clubs Auburn Public Library

749 East Thach Avenue, Auburn. 501-3190 www.auburnalabama.org/library American Girl Club- Grades K- 5th grade students. Girls, be sure to sign up at the Youth Services desk and come meet with everyone. Magic Tree House Club-K - 5th grade students. Be sure to sign up at the Youth Services Desk.

Lewis Cooper Junior Memorial Public Library

204 South Sixth Street, Opelika. 705-5380 www.opelika.org Kids programs and book clubs offered throughout the year.

Dance Auburn Parks and Recreation (ad on page 23)

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn. 740-0381. Pirates & Princesses Dance Theatre Camp- June 6-10, 9:00am-12:30pm. Ages 4-8. Learn dance skills, play theatre games, make themed craft and prepare for a small production on the final day.

Nix Dance Studio (ad on page 19)

850 Stage Rd, Auburn; 887-7250; www.nixdancestudios.com

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Summer 6 week sessions begins June: VIP (Very Important Princess) Preschool class ages 3-4yrs, ballet, hip hop, turns & leaps, lyrical/contemporary, jazz, baton, and company auditions prep class.

Variations Dance

(ad on Inside Front Cover)

323 Airport Road, Auburn; 275-5013 www.variationsstudio.com Tutus & Tiaras- June 20-24 & July 11- 15 10:00 -11:00 and 12:00 - 1:00pm Ages 3-4yrs. Give your budding ballerina a taste of classical ballet and creative movement! Fee $50 per session. Twist & Shout- June 20- 24 & July 11-15. 11:00 12:00pm and 1:30 - 2:30 PM. Ages 5-6yrs. These camps are sure to have your dancers movin’ & groovin’ this summer and is designed to build basic jazz moves as well as ballet technique. Fee $50 per session. Art in Motion- June 20 -24 2:30 -4:30pm .Ages 7-9yrs. This camp is designed for our maturing dancers providing training in classical ballet and jazz in a fun, upbeat class. Fee $100. Summer Session Ages 9- 12yrs - May 31st - June13th 9:00AM-12:00pm. Ages 12-18yrs 1:00pm - 4:00pm. This summer session provides a variety of classes that will aid in maintaining your technique and exploring new styles. 10 day pass for $250 and a five day pass for $150.

Auburn Pointe

1100 S. College Street, 202. Auburn. 740-5118 www.aupointe.com Full Summer Class Schedule: June 6-July 30. Registering now! Beginners- Advanced ages 3 and up. Keep

up your technique or try dance for the first time. All dancers welcome!

Ballet Academy

Pridgen’s Five Points Plaza, 1703 Westend Court, Opelika. 334-737-5551, www.myballetacademy.net June 13-17: Ballet Wonderland- 2:00-5:00pm, ages 3-5. $125, $15 registration fee. July 11-15: Young Dancer’s Summer Intensive- 9am12:30pm, Ages 9-11. $140, $15 registration fee. July 11-15: Young Dancer’s Summer Intensive- 1:005:00pm, Ages 12-14, $160, $15 registration fee. July 11-15: Master Class Series- Ages 15 and up. Evening classes offering professional instruction in Ballet, Pointe, Variations, Pas de Deux, Contemporary, Jazz, Acro and Core, Details to be announced.

Celtic Traditions School of Irish Dance 2705 Fredrick Road, Opelika; 705-0303 www.celtic-traditions.net

Columbus State University Dance Conservatory

www.ColumbusState.edu/Ballet; 706-507-8070 The Conservatory offers a two week summer intensive on ballet technique, pointe, variations, conditioning, jazz, modern, and lyrical.

Make Your Move

116 Columbus Parkway, Opelika; 705-0205 and Valley Sportsplex, Valley; (334) 705-0205 www.makeyourmovedance.com Summer Session I: June 8-26 and Summer Session II: July 6-24

Individual Class $15, Class Punch Card $130, Unlimited Class $325. Classes include: Acrom, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Strength and Conditioning, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Ballet, Lyrical, Stretch/Leaps/ Turns, Tap, and more!

Opelika Parks and Recreation

SportsPlex, 1001 Andrews Road, Opelika. 705-5560 Baton Camp- July 16. 8:00-11:00am, Ages 5-12. $40.

Tiger Twirlers

Gayle Hammitt, 601-630-6994 Baton twirling lessons. Classes meet inside Max Fitness, Auburn.

Day Trips Callaway Gardens

US Hwy 18, Pine Mountain, Ga; 706-663-2281 1-800-Callaway; www.callawaygardens.com Summer hours- 9:00 am-6:00 pm daily. Callaway Gardens is a great location for family vacations in Georgia. Your family will love hiking in our gardens, swimming in Robin Lake, exploring the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, golf, spa and more. The FSU Flying High includes acrobats, juggling and more, teen activities, tennis clinics, water skiing & tubing, camp crafts, nature and wildlife adventures, fishing, archery, beach fun, cookouts, and more!

Chewacla State Park

124 Shell Toomer Pkwy. Auburn; 887-5621 www.alapark.com/Chewacla/

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696 scenic acres are a delightful pause from nearby interstate traffic. Facilities include a 26-acre lake, swimming area, playgrounds, hiking trails, a modern campground, picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters, and newly renovated cabins. Weekdays: $2 for Adults; Weekends: $3 for Adults; Children 6 to 11 years of age and senior citizens: $1.

DeSoto State Park

13883 County Road 89, Fort Payne, Al; 256-845-0051 www. alapark.com/DeSotoResort Nestled atop beautiful scenic Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama, this 3,502-acre park provides Mountain Chalets, Log & Rustic Cabins, Motel Rooms, Meeting Rooms, and also has both improved & primitive campgrounds. Also features a picnic area with playground, olympic-size swimming pool, nature center with interpretive programs and live animals, & over 19 miles of hiking & mountain biking trails.

Georgia Aquarium

225 Baker St. NW, Atlanta, Ga; (404) 581-4000 www.georgiaaquarium.org With more than eight million gallons of fresh and marine water and more aquatic life than found in any other aquarium, you are sure to see things you’ve never seen before! Admission rates start $18.95 (toddlers 2 and under Free); annual, premium, combo, and group rates available.

Horseshoe Bend Military Park

11288 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Daviston, AL (256) 234-7111; Monday-Sunday 8:00 am-5:00 pm Tour the free museum and view the 22 minute film, “The Battle of Horseshoe Bend”. Then enjoy hiking the trails, a picnic, canoe the Tallapoosa River, and go fishing. Children (6 to 12 years old) with families are encouraged to participate in the Junior Ranger Program. Program booklets are available free at the Visitor Center. Children completing the required activities will be awarded a Certificate and Junior Ranger Badge. The program must be completed while in the Park and is not available for groups.

Imagine It! Children’s Hands on Museum

275 Centennial Olympic Park Drive NW, Atlanta, Ga; 404-659-KIDS [5437] Atlanta’s only children’s museum, is the perfect place for children age eight and under and their families to learn and explore together in a safe and fun hands-on environment.

Lake Lanier Islands-Chattahoochee Rapids Beach & WaterPark

7000 Holiday Road, Lake Lanier Islands, Ga; 1-800-840-LAKE; www.lakelanierislands.com With more than a dozen exciting rides and attractions, Chattahoochee Rapids Beach & WaterPark at Lake Lanier Islands Resort offers summer fun for the entire family. The Beach & WaterPark is a multi attraction interactive family environment that offers endless fun while getting drenched. Come experience Wild Waves, Georgia’s largest wave pool, or take a ride down one of our many waterslides. The Kiddie Lagoon and Wiggle Waves are perfect for pint-sized guests and relaxing is easy on our half-mile of sandy white beach!

LegoLand Discovery Center

3500 Peachtree Rd. Suite G-1, Atlanta, Ga; 404-848-9252; www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com Explore our indoor attractions! 15 rides and attractions including LEGO® rides, soft play area, 4D cinema, MINILAND, guided tours, DUPLO® Village, LEGO® Friends Olivia’s House, LEGO® Ninjago Laser Maze Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

and more, all ideal for children aged 3-10 years. Tickets $15-$19, children 2 years and under free. Hours: Sunday-Friday, 10:00am-7:00pm and Saturday, 10:00am-9:00pm.

McWane Science Center

200 19th Street North, Birmingham; (205) 714-8300 www.mcwane.org Rates range $9.00-$17.00; Children under 2 Free; Monday-Friday 9:00 am-5:00 pm, Saturday 10:00 am6:00 pm, Sunday 12:00-6:00 pm. June 3-August 9- Summer Camps- half and full day camps available.

Port Columbus- National Civil War Naval Museum

1002 Victory Drive, Columbus, Ga; 706-327-9798 www.portcolumbus.org Rates $5.00-$6.50; Sunday-Saturday 9:00 am -5:00 pm. Guided tours, self-guided tours, and group tours available.

Stone Mountain

U.S. Highway 78 East, Exit 8, Stone Mountain, Ga; 1- 800-401-2407; www.stonemountainpark.com Park admission- $22.00- $28.00; Toddlers 2 and under Free, Discounts and annual passes available Lots of fun and activities including the Geyser Towers, Sky Hike, laser shows, hiking, musical entertainment, kids’ foam pit, Summit Skyride, Great Locomotive Chase Adventure Golf, the Antebellum Plantation and Great Barn. June 11-July 31- Summer at the Rock May 27-30- Memorial Day Weekend June 11-12- Atlanta Food Truck and Music Festival June 19-Father’s Day Car Show July 1-4- Fantastic Fourth Celebration Sept 3-5- Labor Day Weekend

Windcreek State Park

4325 Alabama Highway 128, Alexander City, AL 256-329-0845; www.alapark.com/WindCreek/ This park spans 1,445 acres along the shores of scenic Lake Martin, that is a 41,000-acre clear-water reservoir perfect for fishing, swimming and boating. Park facilities include the largest state-operated campground in the United States with 626 sites.

Education/Tutoring Kumon

(ad on page 27)

Flint’s Crossing -1550 Opelika Road, Auburn 501-8586 www.kumon.com This summer, put your child on the path to a lifetime of learning. With the school year fresh in your child’s mind, summer is the perfect time to join Kumon. The Kumon Method lets children learn at their own pace, so they can grasp any concept regardless of age or grade level. Here, your child will gain confidence that will last a lifetime. Now’s the time for Kumon. Schedule a free placement test today!

Science Matters (ad on page 17)

College of Science and Math, Auburn Campus. 844-5769. www.auburn.edu/cosam/outreach 6 Week Long Sessions: June 6-10; June 13-17; June 20-24; June 27-July 1; July 18-22, July 25-29. A summer enrichment program for rising 1st-6th graders offering youngsters a supercharged science experience. The program allows participants to explore the

world of science through real experiments, technology and art projects, and hands-on, make-n-take activities. During the week, kids design and build, dabble in the art of chemistry, become a flight specialist, see amazing critters, and more! Day and Extended day hours available.

Auburn University Summer Reading Program

5040 Haley Center, Auburn University, 844-6934 Twelve 45-minute tutorial sessions; accommodates kindergartners, first grades, and some second graders: June 4-July 14. Tuesday-Thursday program works with struggling readers in grades 3-6: June 4-July 14. Most sessions will be scheduled between 8:00 and 8:45 AM. Tutors will contact parents at the beginning of June to confirm specific lesson times. For an application form, contact Dr. Bruce Murray.

Little Language

Littlelanguage@gmail.com Summer World Tour Camp designed to teach children grades completed 1st-5th about the cultures, customs, and languages of the countries along the tour. This year’s journey will include: Mexico, Germany, France, Italy and Korea. Campers will ‘step inside’ each country and learn about the people, places and things that make that area of the world unique. Monday-Friday, 9am-12noon, during June and July.

Summer Educational Enrichment

Mount Vernon Missionary Baptist Church, Auburn. 334-826-0454 This FREE 6-week program targets kids ages 4-10 (Grades K-5) with a focus on reading, math and writing in preparation for the upcoming school term. Patricia Frazier, director of Christian Education, for more information. patriciafrazier40@yahoo.com

Family Fun Kreher Preserve and Nature Center (ad on page 13)

2222 N. College Street (Hwy 147) near Hwy 280 and the AU Fisheries. preserve@auburn.edu; 844-8091 May 12 & 13- 3rd Annual S’more Fun With Mom! 6:008:30pm. $20 couple/ $5 each child. May 9- Nature’s Explorers Spring Session May 10- Family Discovery Hike/ Native Americans June 4- Science on Saturdays: Bogs. Summer Ecology Camps: Ages 1-6 graders; 8:00am12noon. Membership is required for camp registration. May 31-June 3: Summer Ecology Camp-Camp Discovery: Water Wonders! June 6-10: Summer Ecology Camp: Young Naturalist I June 13-17: Summer Ecology Camp: Hunger Games June 20-24: Summer Ecology Camp: Young Naturalist II June 27- 30:Summer Ecology Camp: Explorers July 12- Family Discovery Hike/Butterflies July 12- Summer Forest Friends July 19- Summer Forest Friends July 26- Summer Forest Friends July 23- Science on Saturdays/ Butterflies Aug 9- Family Discovery Hike/ Carnivorous Plants

Rockin Jump (ad on page 31)

5544 Atlanta Highway, Montgomery. 334-239-2587 www.montgomery.rockinjump.com Our Parties Are Rockin! Rockin Jump is a place where you can soar in open jump arenas, dive into pools of soft foam cubes, play trampoline dodgeball, do flips

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and somersaults. Areas for play include Open Jump Arena, Dodgeball Arena, Stunt Bag Arena, Slam Dunk Zone, X-Beam, and Vertigo Climbing Tower. We also wanted a new alternative for birthday parties and family gatherings, where quality food and private party rooms were guaranteed, and our kids could safely play while we socialized with other parents.

AMF Bowling

719 Opelika Hwy. Auburn. 887-6573 ; www.amf.com/ auburnlanesal Free bowling for kids all summer long! Kids registered in the Summer Unplugged program can bowl two games per day, every day, all summer long! (Shoe rental not included.) www.freebowling.amf.com

Auburn Escape Zones

1234 Commerce Drive, Auburn. 205-410-8141 www.auburnescapezones.com Escape rooms are a fun, interactive game experience new to the Auburn/Opelika area. You and a small group up to 8 people will be immersed in a room with a specific theme and problem. 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.” But your team must work quickly because you only have 60 minutes. Can you escape?

Carmike Wynnsong Movie Theatre

2111 East University Drive, Auburn. 501-0401 and Tiger 13, 1900 Capps Landing, Opelika. 364-9959. Kids’ Summer Movie Series: Tuesday/Wednesday and Wednesday/Thursday, 10:00am, throughout the summer. $4.00 admission for all includes kids snack tray. Summer Movie Releases: May 6- Captain America: Civil War, May 20- Angry Birds, May 27- Alice Behind the Looking Glass, May 27- X-Men Apocalypse, June 3- Ninja Turtles 2, June 17- Finding Dory, July 1- The BFG, July 1- The Legend of Tarzan, July 8- Pets, July 15- Ghostbusters, July 22- Ice Age: Collision Course, July 22- Star Trek: Beyond, Aug 12- Pete’s Dragaon, Aug 19- Kubo.

Creating healthy smiles for confident tomorrows Call us today to schedule your complimentary evaluation! 334-501-7000

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CyberZone

107 North 9th Street, Opelika. 737-5000 www.cyberzone334.com Whether its lasertag, state-of-the-art arcades in The Grind, BounceZone, nostalgic retro games, or getting your snack on at the CyberCafe, we’re bound to have something to keep you entertained for hours! Host your birthday party, event, lock-in or family reunions. Private party rooms available.

Hollywood Connection

1683 Whittlesey Road, Columbus, GA 706-571-3456; www.carmike.com 125,000 square feet of state-of-the-art entertainment with movies, amusements, attractions, games, food and fun!

The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum

2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery; 334-240-4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com 9:00 am -5:00 pm. Tickets range $7.00 -$14.00; toddlers 2 years and under- Free; Senior citizens, military and group discounts. May 8- Mother’s Day Zoo Camp: June 6-10, June 13-17, June 20-24, June 27-July 1, July 11-15, July 18-22, and July 25-29. June 19- Father’s Day July 16- Animal Enrichment

Sports Academy

3768 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika (Midway Plaza) 749-4040; www.sportsacademyauburn.com

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Auburn/Opelika’s premiere indoor sports training and conditioning facility! We cater to athletes of all sports, skill levels and all ages! Party space available; teams welcome.

The Skate Center

1221 Commerce Drive, Auburn; 821-1128 Tuesday-Thursday 6:30 – 9:00 pm; Friday 6:30-10:00 pm; Saturday 12:00-4:00 pm and 6:30-10:00 pm; Sunday 2:00-5:00 pm and 7:30-10:30pm. Prices range from $4.00-$6.00 includes skate rentals. Birthday Parties, Church Parties and Civic Groups, Parties, School Fundraisers, Sorority/Fraternity Socials

Wild Animal Safari

1300 Oak Grove Road, Pine Mountain, GA. 706-663-8744; www.animalsafari.com Sunday-Saturday 10:00 am -7:30 pm all summer You can drive your own vehicle (or take the complimentary bus tour- seasonal) thru our Drive-Thru safari and get to experience hand feeding the animals. On the safari the exotic animals will literally come up to your car and eat right out of the palm of your hand. You also get to enjoy our walk-about section (both parts included in your ticket price), here you will find some of our other animals in pens for you to see. Scattered through our entire park we have approx. 650 animals, (and counting!)

Zoo Atlanta

800 Cherokee Avenue, SE; Atlanta, GA 404-624-WILD Monday-Friday: 9:30am-5:30pm, ticket booths close at 4:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday: 9:30am.-6:30pm., ticket booths close at 5:30pm.Tickets- $14.99-$19.99; 2 and under Free; Military, senior citizens discounts. Season passes available.

Unique Activities Opelika Parks and Recreation

A Day in the Life of Police Academy- June 13. 9:3011:30am. Ages 6-11 yrs. Fee: $10. Spend the morning with members of the Opelika Police Dept. Great opportunity to go behind the scenes. Snack included. A Day in the Life of Firefighters Academy- June 14. 8:30am-2:00pm. Ages 6-12yrs. Fee: $10. Report to the Denson Drive Rec Center-transportation provided to Opelika Fire Dept. training center. Experience first hand what it takes to be a firefighter. Explore the trucks, try on the uniform and hold the hoses! Prepare to ‘get wet’. Lunch and T-shirt included. A Day in the Life of Power Service Academy- June 15- 9:00am-12:00noon; Ages 6-11yrs. Fee: $10. Have you been in a bucket truck or climbed a Light & Power Pole? Join members of the Light & Power Department as they demonstrate their skills and invite participants to have ‘hands on’ fun in this morning academy! Snack included. Adventure Day- July 27. 1:00-4:00pm. Ages 5-12yrs. Fee: $10. Fun activities! You are invited to go on an adventure of food & fun. Back to School Bash- July 29. 10:00am-1:00pm. All Ages, Free. Back to School Ice Cream Social- July 22. 1:002:00pm. Ages 5-12, Fee $5. Boys Night Out- June 24. 6:00-9:00pm. Ages 7-12. Fee $20. Come hangout with the guys. Enjoy food, a movie, basketball and a video games. Covington Movie Club- June 9, June 23, July 7, and July 21. 3:30-5:00pm. Ages 6-12. Fee $3 per movie. Hot summer day with nothing to do? Come in and enjoy a movie and popcorn! Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

Girls Night Out- June 10. 6:00-9:00pm. Ages 6-12. Fee $20. Come enjoy food, a movie, jewelry making and makeovers. Don’t forget to wear your pj’s. Goofy Games- July 14. 3:00-4:00pm. Ages 6-12yrs. Fee: $10. Enjoy relays, group games, board games & computerized games. Green Thumb Gardening- June 22. 3:00-4:00pm. Ages 5-12. Fee $12. Get ready to bring a new life into this world..plant life that is! Come ready to decorate a pot to plant your new flower in! Junior Bakers- July 12. 3:00-4:30pm. Ages 9-12. Fee $15. Junior bakers will experience baking dishes with a surprise baker! Class max: 6 Kids in the Kitchen- June 7. 3:00-4:00pm. Ages 4-7. Fee $15. Hands on fun making delicious and childproof foods! Lion Tamers -June 4. 10:00am-1:00pm. All ages. Free to public! Games, prizes, food, fun and Free Swim! Messy Madness- July 6, 3:00-4:00pm. All Ages. Fee: $10. “Messy Projects and Slimy Creations”. Wear old clothing. Pizza Pizzazz – July 5, 3:00-4:00pm. Ages 6-11. Fee: $10. Learn to create various pizzas using bagels, French bread, English Muffins. Wacky Water Games- July 19. 3:00-4:00pm. Age 6-10. Fee: $10. Have fun with bubbles, balloons and water.

Gymnastics & Cheer Co. Athletics & Wellness (ads on pages 3 and 35)

1004 Opelika Rd. Auburn, 334.649.3306 www.athleticsandwellness.co Camp Co.urage: June 6-30 and July528. June 6-9: Ocean/Gardening. Includes bounce houses, gardening, star fish craft. June 13-16: Space Week. Includes laser tag, rocket ships and galaxy jars. June 20-23: Art Camp with Lyntha Edwards. Includes art show, professional art class, and art education. June 27-30: Stars & Stripes with O-Town Ice Cream. Includes firework art, sun catchers and patriotic lanterns. July 5-8: Around the World. Includes henna hands, Masai neck wear and Chinese fans. July 11-14: Inflatable Week. Bounce houses, inflatable golf and obstacle course. July 18-20: Rain Forest/Wild Life. Includes snake craft, bird feeders and woven craft butterflies. July 25-28: Laser Tag/Glow Party. Includes lava lamps and fairy light jars. Regular Tumbling Class: Being June 6; Monday and Wednesday, 3:30-4:30pm or 4:40-5:30pm. #Au.Some (children with Autism): Monday and Wednesday, 2:30-3:30pm. Begins June 6. #Au.Some Adults ( Adults with Autism): Tuesday and Thursday, 2:30-3:30pm. Beginning June 7. Upward Tumbling ( Athletes with Downs Syndrome): Tuesday and/or Thursday, 5-5:30pm or 5:30-6pm. One Child: $40 per/day, $120 per/ week, $220/ 2 weeks, $400/ Month; Two Children (15%off regular price): $34 per child a day, $204 per/week, $374 / 2 weeks, $680 / Month; Three Children (20%off regular price): $32 per child a day, $288 per/week, $540 / 2 weeks, $960 / Month; 4 children and above 25% off regular price times the number of children. 8:15am-8:25am drop off, 8:30am-2pm-15 children per grades (k- 6th or 7th), 8:30-9:50am Activity, 10am Snack, 10:30-11:50 Activity, 12:00 Lunch, 12:30-2:00 Activities

Opelika Parks and Recreation

Denson Road Recreation Center. 1102 Denson Drive. Ben White, 705-5547 or bwhite@ci.opelika.al.us Parent and Me Tumbling- June 6-Aug 4, 10:00am or 6:00pm. Ages 2-3 years with parent participation. $45. Tumble Tots- June 6-Aug 4, 10:30am or 6:00pm. Ages 4 years. $45. Level I Tumbling- Level III Tumbling. Cheer Prep Tumbling- June 6-Aug 4. Cheer Camp- June 13-14. 1:00-3:00pm. Ages 3-12. $25 fee.

Premier Spirit Academy

923-B Stage Road, Auburn; 821-7300 www.premierspiritacademy.com Tumbling Camp- June 20-23, 8:00-11:00am, Ages 7-18, $110/$120. Kids Camp- June 28-30, 9-11am, Ages 3-6. $65/$75. Regular Monday- Thursday classes offered throughout the summer! Mom and Tot, Preschool, Youth, Level 1-3, Advanced Tumbling and Cheer Classes.

Tiger Tracks Cheer Camp

Tiger Tracks Cheer Camp-June 6-9, 9:00am-1:00pm, Ages preschool-6th grade. Located at Premier Spirit Academy. Register online: www.tigertrackscheer.com

Xtreme Athletics

3732 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika. 334-759-7030. www.xtremeathleticsauburn.com Competitive cheer and gymnastics, camps and kids night out programs.

Horseback Riding H & G Horse Quarters (ad on page 32)

943 Lee Road 57, Auburn; 887-0026 www.hghorsequarters.com An equestrian center located in Auburn offering lessons, boarding, showing, and camp sessions. Joey Camps: June 6-10, June 20-24, July 11-15, and July 25-29. Joey Camp is for beginner riders ages 5-8. There is no riding experience necessary, only a love for horses and the sport. Camp will run Monday-Friday from 8 AM to 1 PM each day. Students will learn safety, grooming, tacking up, and mounting. As the week progresses, students will learn to walk/trot and balance their horses/ ponies. We offer fun, informative, hands-on activities following riding each day, with materials designed to be age and skill appropriate. $350 per session.

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Ice Cream Bruster’s- 2172 East University Dr., Auburn. 821-9988. Chill Yogurt Cafe - 2486 Enterprise Drive, Opelika; 745-7715 & 234 West Magnolia Ave, Downtown Auburn; 502-1114. www.chillyogurt.com D Square Donuts-1625 East University Drive, Auburn. 887-1112; www.dsquaredonuts.com Kona Ice- 707-3650. www.kona-ice.com O Town Ice Cream- 815 South Railroad Ave, Opelika. 737-5700. Find us on Facebook. SnowBiz Shave Ice- 1625 East University Drive, Auburn; 319-0739 & 1607 S College Street, Auburn; 742-0371 Steel City Pops- 109 North College Street, Auburn; www.steelcitypops.com Toomer’s Drugs- Toomers Corner® on the corner of Magnolia Ave and College Street; 887-3488; www.toomersdrugs.com

Local Camps Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center (ad on page 22)

128 East Glenn Ave, Auburn. Milissa Clowers, Director or Kristina Hickman, Office Assistant, 334.821.8125, afbcdc@gmail.com Summer Camp is a Field-Trip based Program; All summer, 7:00am to 5:30pm Monday - Friday. DropIns Welcome (space permitting). Summer Camp

Enrollment is currently taking place for Kindergartencompletion of 5th grade (child must have completed Kindergarten). 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.

Auburn Parks and Recreation (ad on page 23)

Melissa Weldon, 501-2946 Camp Kaleidoscope- Auburn Jr. High School. Session A: June 6-10; Session B: June 13-17; Session C: June 20-24; Session D: July 11-15; Session E: July 18-22; Session F: July 25-29; 8:00am-5:00 pm. Each week of camp will be filled with games, activities, special guests, and field trips. 6-12 years; $130 per week, $100 per week for each additional sibling and $680 for the entire summer. Junior Camp Counselor Program- June 6-July 29, Ages: 13-17 years; The Counselor position is a volunteer position that teaches teens responsibility and allows them to mentor younger campers at Camp Kaleidoscope. This is a great opportunity for teens to learn invaluable skills necessary for their first “real” job and provides a great atmosphere to socialize with other junior camp counselors in a fun and exciting setting. Also, this is a chance for teens to earn community service credit hours and give back to their community. The deadline for participants to register is May 15. Small Fry Camp- Frank Brown Recreation Center; Monday, Wednesday, and Friday: June 1-August 31.

Ages: 3-5 (child must be 3 years by the first class); 8:00-11:00am. Preschoolers will enjoy hands-on activities, music in song and dance, and many other age-related activities. Fieldtrips may be offered. Child must be toilet trained to participate. Abilities Unlimited Camp- July 11-29, 8:30am-3:00pm. Located at School of Kinesiology at AU. For children/ youth with developmental disabilities ages 5-12. Dr. Melissa Pangelinan, mgp0020@auburn.edu Summer Therapeutic Day Camp- Alison Hall, 5012930, ahall@auburnalabama.org, 7 week summer day camp designed for young adults with various disabilities. Program includes lifeskills training such as handling money, team work, social skills, square dancing, swimming, and other physical recreation activities. The campers also participate in field trips. Entomology Camp- May 31-June 3, June 20-24, and July 11-15. 8:00am-12:00pm; Ages 9-18, $80. Unicycle Summer Camp- June 13-17, 8:00-11:00am; $15.0. Circus Arts Camp- June 13-17, 1:00-4:00pm; $150 WAMM Writing, Math and More!- June 6-17 and July 7-22, 9:00am-12:30pm; Ages 8-12.

Auburn Summer Youth Programs at Auburn University (ad on page 13)

www.auburn.edu/summercamps Outreach Program Office, 844-5100 21st Century- June 5-10. Architecture Camp- 2 Sessions: June 19-24 & July 10-15. AU Brain Camp- July 24-29.

TAKE YOUR SWING

TO THE NEXT LEVEL Grand National is offering golf clinics this summer for junior golfers, ages 7-17, taught by PGA Certified pros. The clinics will be held in three, Monday – Thursday sessions from 8:30-11:30 a.m. SESSION 1: June 6-9 · SESSION 2: June 20-23 SESSION 3: July 25-28 · $100 PER SESSION Lunch and a free Par 3 round are included each day. » FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER, CALL 334.749.9042. «

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Art Studio Intensive- June 19-24. Aviation Camp- June 5-10 & July 10-15. Chef Tech Academy- May-Aug Creative Writing- July 17-22. Cyber Security Engineering Camp- July 17-22. Dance Intensive- July 27-July1 Design Camp- 2 Sessions: June 19-24 & July 5-10. Engineering TIGERS Camp- Senior camp: June.l Fisheries Camp- June 19-24. Food Science Camp – July24-29. Forestry Camp- June 26-July 1. Loachapoka Explore Auburn Days Camp- June 5-10 Multicultural Camp- June 20-24 & June 27- July1. Musical Theatre Camp- June 26- July 1 Nursing and Healthcare Camp- July 24-29 Photography Camp- July 24-29. Project Design Camp- July 12-17. Real Cents, Real Change-June 19-24 Robotics & Game DevelopmentJune 13-16. Sports Science Camp- June 5-10. Summer Acceleration CampJune 6-17. Summer English Camp- June 6-July 1. Veterinarian Camp-Senior Camp- June 12-17. World Affairs Youth SeminarJuly 10-15.

Bonnie’s Kids Childcare Center (ad on page 7)

2314 Enterprise Drive; Opelika. 745-6248 www.bonnieskidschildcare.com When your schedule says, “You can’t be there”, place your kids in Bonnie’s Care. Bonnie’s Kids Child Care can lovingly step in when your busy schedule takes you away from your young, preschool children, when you naturally want them cared for and watched over with the same love, attention, protection and nurturing that you would provide yourself. Serving the Opelika region for over 25 years, Bonnie’s Kids Child Care has been helping working families with attentive, conscientious and supportive child care in times of need, providing young children with guidance, confidence, nutrition, emotional and physical exercising and support, and honest to goodness love. Summer camp includes 3 field trips per week for school age children including swimming, bowling, area parks, movie theater, Auburn University, Callaway Gardens and more! Also offering Premier Spirit Academy tumbling, dance, music, computer and more!

Growing Room: There’s a Rumble in Our Jungle (ad on page 26)

644 North Dean Road, Auburn. 334-501-2044 www.growingroomusa.com. Kicks off May 23, 2016. Our Summer Camp includes exciting events and activities for every age group, from Infants to our School Agers. This year our Summer Camp is all about the Jungle! Each week our campers will participate in unique crafts and special events with themes related to different jungle experiences. Our 3 & 4 year olds will enjoy bi-weekly field trips, while our Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

School Age kids will enjoy fun & exciting field trips every week! Our summer curriculum continues to include educational concepts such as literacy, math, science, and character education. Children enjoy warm nutritious meals and the safest play possible on our state of the art playground. Give your child the best summer ever at the Growing Room. We’re open Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:30pm. Come by today for a tour at 644 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al. Summer Camp registration opens to new enrollments on April 4, 2016.

Active8- Columbus State University, Continuing Education Summer Camps

www.activ8er.com; 706-507-8070. Genius at Play! 10 weeks of active summer fun! Half day and full day options, before and after care available, new camps to choose from every week. Camps begin June-Aug.

Camp ASCCA

www.campascca.org; 256-825-9226 Easter Seals Camp ASCCA is a year round camp for people with disabilities located in Jackson’s Gap, Al. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements, like the zip-line, and much more!

Camp Shakespeare at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival

334-271-5393; www.asfeducation.com; A week of acting, stage combat, movement/dance, voice training and technical theatre. June- July. Grades 4-12.

Milestones Learning Center

1811 East Glenn Ave. Auburn. 887-4391 www.milestoneslc.com Summer camp- June-Aug; different theme each week: summer fun, summer safety, under the sea, vacations, America the beautiful, creepy crawlers, wild west, summer sports, let’s go fishing, and much more!

Opelika Parks and Recreation

Covington Day Camp- June 6-12, June 15-July 1, July 5-15, and July 18-29. Monday-Friday, 8:00am-3:00pm. Ages Kindergarten-7th graders. This camp will have a wide variety of sport activities, swimming, and weekly field trips both in and out of town. Cook outs and a staff-camper water day featuring a 30 ft. water slide highlights an active summer planned with your child in mind. On rainy days your camper will have a variety of activities inside the gym and game room. Camp includes snack, daily swimming and a t-shirt. PlexCamp- June 6-17, June 20-July 1, July 5-15, and July 18-29. Monday-Friday, 8:00am-3:00pm. Ages 1st5th grade (completed). This camp will include a wide variety of activities including arts & crafts, swimming, field trips, water day, wacky day, color day and sports. Many activities will have special emphasis on nature and science. Plex Kids Camp- June 6- July 29. 3:00-5:30pm. weekly sessions. Ages 1st-5th grade (completed). After a full day of camp, kids will have a snack, some down time and enjoy the activities the Sportsplex has to offer.

Covington Kids Camp- June 6-July 29. 3:00-5:30pm. Ages K-Rising 7th grade.

P.E.E.P.S. (Poultry and Egg Experiences for Prospective Students)

Poultry Science Building, AU Campus. Amanda Martin - 844-2881; amartin@auburn.edu Camp is designed to educate students in the areas of agriculture, food, science and poultry.

Martial Arts Auburn Mixed Martial Arts

2515 East Glenn Commerce Park #204, Auburn 887-0818; www.auburnmma.com Teach realistic, but safe, fighting techniques in the martial arts of: Brazilian Jiu jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Judo, Kickboxing, Anti Bully Techniques and Submission Grappling. We also teach classes in Fitness Kickboxing and Kettle Bell. No experience necessary!

Auburn Academy of Martial Arts

323 Airport Rd, Suite J, Auburn, 502-7221 www.auburnacademy.com Summer Camp themes include: Padded Weapons, Board Breaking, Bully Buster Techniques, Tournament Sparring. Learning, discipline, and FUN! All levelsbeginners and advanced. We welcome all interested students to come by to observe a class or just jump right in and try it out.

Music Auburn Parks and Recreation (ad on page 23)

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. 501-2963 Musical Theatre Camp I- June 13-17, 1:00-3:00pm and 3:15-5:15pm, Ages 5-7 yrs; $150. Musical Theatre Camp II- June 13-17, 9:00am12:00pm. Ages 8-11yrs; $150. Musical Theatre Camp III- June 13-17, 1:00-4:00pm. Ages 12-18; $150. Lights! Camera! Action! Movie Making Camp- June 6-10, 1:00-4:00pm. Ages 8-12; $150. Summer Intensive- June 20-24, June 25-29, 1:004:00pm. Ages 5-18yrs; $150. Mommy and Me Music and Art- May 24-26, May 31-June 2, Ages 2-3: 9:00-10:00am OR Ages 4-5: 10:30-11:30am. Fee $60. Joy’s Music Studio- June 6-July 25, 4:00-5:00pm; Ages 5 and up. $75. Rhythm Guitaring Lessons- June 3-Aug 27, 9:3010:15am; Ages 8-17, $35. Clarinet Ensemble- June 4-Aug 31, 10:30-11:30AM; Ages 8-17, $35.

Spicer’s Music (ad on page 32)

2140 E. University Drive, Auburn. 329-7529 www.spicersmusic.com Garage Band Camps: June 6-10 and June 13-17, morning and afternoon sessions. Attention aspiring musicians, ages 8 - 18! If you love music, and want to play in a rock band, this camp is for you! At Spicer’s Garage Band Camp, you will have a blast as you jam daily with your bandmates. You will receive individualized instruction on your instrument, work with other musicians to choose a band name and logo, write your own song, and learn several current songs. After a fun-filled week of jamming, you and your

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band will perform on stage with professional lights and sound equipment in front of family and friends. Camp Kazoo: June 20-23 and June 27-30, 9:0010:30am. This fun-filled, positive camp introduces children ages 3 to 7 to the wonderful world of music. Camp Kazoo campers will beat on drums, shake tambourines, tap the keys, strum guitars, sing and of course toot KAZOOS! They will experience various musical genres (think reggae, bluegrass, rock’n roll) and learn about melody and rhythm. This hands-on camp provides a foundation for a lifelong love of music, and may lead to discovering a passion for a specific instrument (or two). Children will gain an appreciation for the many ways music enriches our lives. Also offering lessons on an incredible variety of instruments, including but not limited to: guitar, bass guitar, upright bass, keyboard/piano, voice, harp, drums, ukulele, banjo, fiddle, violin, cello, harmonica, tin whistle, oboe, didgeridoo, mandolin, dulcimer, clarinet, saxophone, flute, trumpet, and french horn.

Auburn Guitar Shoppe

758 East Glenn Ave. Auburn. www.auburnguitar.com; 821-6818

Auburn University Band Camp

www.band.auburn.edu June 10-12, June 12-15, June 15-18, June 22-24.

Summer Showoffs

www.summershowoffs.com; June 2-July 1 and July 11-15: Auburn High School, Auburn. Now Showing! Summer Showoffs is a music day camp for ages 1st-12th graders that uses music and performance to build confidence and character. We help students develop their talents on stage! Everyone gets a solo! $260 per camp.

Sports/Fitness Auburn Parks and Recreation (ad on page 23)

Sports Camp- June 6-24, July 18-22, 9:00am12:00noon; Ages 9-12years, $50. Campers will have the opportunity to participate in a different sport each day. Sports include baseball, soccer, tennis, track, basketball. Camp will be at a different location each day. Frank Singleton Basketball Camp- June 15-16, 8:00am-12:00pm; Ages 7-12, Fee $30. ASA Thunder Tykes Camp- June 21-23 and July 26-28, 5:00-6:30pm; Age s 4-5. ASA Rising Tiger Soccer Camp- May 31-June 3 and July 11-14; Ages 6-8. ASA Junior Soccer Camp- May 31-June 3 and July 11-14; Ages 9-13. ASA Goalkeeper Soccer Camp- August 1-4; Ages 10-18. ASA Advanced Soccer Camp- August 1-4; Ages 10-18. ASA Fitness & Skills Camp- June 20-23 and July 25-28; Ages 10-18. Tennis Camps- June 6-9, June 28-30, July 18-21, July 25-28, and Aug 1-5. X-Bar for Youth-June 6-July 18, July 25-Aug 29, 5:15-5:45pm. Ages 7-15.

Robert Trent Jones Grand National Golf Clinics (ad on page 39i)

3000 Robert Trent Jones Trail, Opelika. 749-9042, www.Rtjgolf.com

3 Sessions: June 6-9, June 20-23 and July 25-28. Take your swing to the next level! Grand National is offering golf clinics this summer for junior golfers, ages 7-17, taught by PGA Certified pros. $100 per session; 8:3011:30 a.m. Lunch and a free Par 3 round are included each day.

Auburn Thunder

www.auburnthundersoccer.com; 256-655-4448 Auburn Thunder (part of the Auburn Soccer Association) is an elite soccer club for boys and girls ages 9-18.

Auburn University Soccer Camps

844-9637; www.auburnsoccercamp.com June 10-12- Elite Camp, Girls only, 9th-12th graders, $400 July 15-17- Elite Camp II, Girls only, 9th-12th graders, $400 June 12-15- Residential Camp I, Girls only, ages 9-16yrs, $350-$475 July 17-20- Residential Camp II, Boys & Girls, ages 9-16yrs, $350-$475 July 11-14- Day Camp, Boys & Girls, 6-12yrs, $130

Auburn University Sports Camps

Baseball Academy- sctt@throw90.com Basketball- mbabul@auburn.edu Brett Hawke Swim- www.auburnswimcamps.com Equestrian- carolyn031@centurytel.net Football- wbolt@auburn.edu Gymnastics- kurth@auburn.edu Soccer- khoppa@auburn.edu Tigers Golf- www.auburntigers.com Tiger Softball- deeseti@auburn.edu Tennis- www.gteamtennis.com Volleyball- cwc0004@auburn.edu

to 9yrs! Space is limited so reserve your spot today! Members $30per day/ Non-members $35per day; Registration begins March 1st. Register by March 31st to get $5 off each camp day! Camping/Outdoors: June 7-9 Ocean Fun: June 14-16 Sports: June 21-23 Jungle: June 28-30 Pirate: July 12-14 My Gym Spirit: July 19-21 Circus: July 26-28

Opelika Parks and Recreation- SportsPlex

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika; 705-5560. August 6- SportsPlex Tri for Kids: Register now! Swim, Bike and Run! www.sportsplexforkids.com Basketball Camp- June 16-17. 9:00am-12:00pm. Ages 6-8, 9-10, and 11-12. $25 . Bull Pups Football- Saturdays Aug-Oct. 8:00-11:00am. Ages 6-7, $45. Bull Dogs Youth Football- Saturdays Aug-Oct. 8:00-11:00am. Ages 8-9. $45. Midget League Football- Mon/Tues/Thurs Aug- Oct. 5:00-8:-00pm, Ages 10-12, $45. Mini Tennis Clinic-June 16/18 and July 14/16, 3:004:00pm, Ages 6-12. Wrestling Camp- June 7-8, 4-6pm, Ages 5-12, $20. 11th Annual Back to the Dawghouse Camp-TBD T-Ball- Begins June 6. . Ages 4-6. $40. Karate- April 4-June 25. Tues/Thurs, 5:30-6:30pm. $75.

Plains Junior Golf

Moore’s Mill Golf Club, Auburn. Will Blackmon 319-0051 or Elizabeth Rodgers, 821-6533; golfhouse. mooresmill@gmail.com; Offering girls, boys and co-ed golf camps.

Sports Academy

Healthplus

1171 Gatewood Drive, Auburn; 887-5666 www.healthplusfitness.com Youth Swim for Fitness- This is a chance for kids to learn a lifetime fitness activity. Our hour-long workout will improve endurance; perfect technique and help children learn advanced swimming skills. Children must have completed Snappers Level 3 or be at least 8 years old to participate. Fitness Fun CampMay 24-August 5; Monday-Friday 8:00 am- 12:00pm (extended day is available through 5:00pm). Ages 5-12 yrs. A safe and fun-filled camp environment that will promote fitness, health, creativity and friendship. Open to members and non-members. Kids’ Gym- Ages 5-12. Members free; nonmembers $2.00 per visit. Activities include climbing wall, scooters, basketball, relays, kickball, tag games, dodgeball, jump rope and much more. At the pool, children may swim or play quietly on the pool deck.

My Gym Auburn

300 North Dean Road, Auburn. 334.246.0987 www.mygym.com/auburn Drop the kiddos off at My Gym for 3-hours of non-stop indoor fun. We’ll be doing games, relays, gymnastics, sports skills, arts and crafts and much more! Snack Included! Summer Camp is great for children ages 2.5yrs

3768 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika (Midway Plaza), 749-4040; www.sportsacademyauburn.com

Swimming Auburn Parks and Recreation

(ad on page 23)

Summer Swim Lessons and Teams- Samford Pool, Auburn. 501-2958 or 501-2930 Lessons- Morning and evening classes offered. Ages 6 months and up. Participants should wear appropriate swimwear, as testing may be required. For more information, visit auburnalabama.org/ pools or pick up a copy of Auburn Parks and Recreation’s Summer Brochure. Sea Babies- Ages 6 months-3 years; Sea Turtles- Ages 3-5yrs; GuppiesAges 6-10 yrs; Dolphins- Ages 11-15yrs; Big FishAges 19-older Auburn Dragonflies Swim Team- First time team members’ evaluations: May 2, 4:00-5:00pm. Team practice: May 2-26, 4:00-5:00pm. Auburn Diving and Learn to Dive- Ages 7 and up. www. aausports.org Red Cross Lifeguard Certification- May 14. $250. Scuba- June 7, 14, 21 & June 28, July 5, & 12. 6:009:00pm. Ages 12 and up. 887-8005.

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Float-In-Movies- June 9 & July 14; Samford Pool, gates open 8:15pm. $2. Friday Night Splash- June 24 and July 29. 6-8pm. Samford Pool. Enjoy free swim, games, music, cookout and more. $2. End of Summer Luau & Movie- Aug 5, 5:00-8:00pm. Samford Pool. $2.

Healthplus

1171 Gatewood Drive, Auburn; 887-5666 www.healthplusfitness.com Infant Swimming Resource- nationally recognized survival swimming program which teaches infants and toddlers ages 6 months to 6 years using the ISR SelfRescue™ method. Water Babies- Baby’s first swim lesson. Parents and children participate in eight 30-minute guided practice sessions that help children learn elementary skills, including water entry, bubble blowing, front kicking, back floating, underwater exploration, and more. This is not a Learn-to-Swim class. Learn To Swim- Beginner to advanced sessions.

Opelika Parks and Recreation

Opelika SeaDawgs Summer Swim Team –Mandy Johnson-mjohnson@ci.opelika.al.us, 705- 2488. Parent Meeting: May 3, 5:30pm. Practice May 2-25. $65/ swimmer, $5 sibling discount. Little Dawgs Pre-Team and SeaDawgs Pups- Call Mandy for more info. Summer Swimming Lessons Covington Pool: Ages 4 and up (beginner through advanced classes). $50. Session I: May 31-June 10; Session II: June 13-24;

Session III: July 5-15; Session IV: July 18-29. 9-9:45am. Youth Swim Lessons SportsPlex- Ages 4 and up. Session I: May 31-June 10; Session II: June 13-24; Session III: July 5-15; Session IV: July 18-29. 10am, 11am, or 12pm. $55 fee. Parent and Me- May 10-July 19; Tuesday & Thursday, 5:00pm or 5:30pm. $30. American Red Cross Lifeguard Challenge CourseMay 21, 9:00am-5:00pm. $75 fee. SportsPlex Family Swim Night- June 2, 9, 23, July 7, 16, 14, 21. For Members Only. 6:00-9:00pm.

Tiger Swim Lessons

Monday – Friday 5:00 am-8:00 amMember Lap Swim Only 1:00 pm-8:00 pm Open Swim Saturday 8:00am- 10:00 am -Member Lap Swim Only 10:00am-12:00 pm Family Swim 12:00pm- 5:00 pm Open Swim Sunday 1:00pm- 5:00pm Open Swim Splash Park Summer Hours: Monday- Friday 10:00am- 8:00pm Saturday 10:00am-5:00pm Sunday 1:00pm-5:00pm

737-4427 or asmutjc@auburn.edu Auburn University Aquatic Center- 2 week sessions with 30 minute classes.

Watersports

Swimming Pools

Vacation Rentals- Baker Realty; www.bakerrealty.com; 334-585-0748 Lakepoint Resort State Park- The park has a lodge, convention center, modern campground, vacation cabins and lakeside cottages, picnic areas, 18-hole golf course and a marina complete with launch facilities and boat slips. 334-687-8011; www.alapark.com/LakePointResort

City of Auburn Public Pools (ad on page 23)

Drake Pool- 653 Spencer Ave. next to Drake Middle School; 501-2958 Samford Pool- 465 Wrights Mill Road / 328 Samford Ave.; 501-2957 Auburn City pools will open on May 28. Auburn City Pool Season passes will be sold at the Dean Road Recreation Center. Individual and Family passes available.

Opelika Parks and Recreation

Covington Pool-213 Carver Ave. 705-5550; SportsPlex Pool- 705-5560.

Lake Eufaula

Lake Martin

Lakeside Marina- Rentals: boats, watercraft, tubes, boards and skis-Dadeville, Al; 256-825-9286 www.lakesidemarinallc.com Pleasure Point Marina Cabin Rentals Dadeville, AL (256) 825-9400; www.pleasurepointmarina.com

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Raising Kids Who Can Code Over 600,000 computing jobs are available in the US, but only 43,000 computer science majors graduated last year. That startling statistic from code.org may explain why 9 out of 10 parents want children to learn computer programming. Even kids who aren’t likely to choose programming as a career benefit from learning something about it. Coding teaches kids to analyze problems, think logically and be persistent about troubleshooting. Getting results also gives kids a sense of accomplishment and confidence that they can make technology work for them. Unfortunately, many K-12 schools don’t routinely offer coding classes. To correct that problem, the White House launched a CS for All Initiative earlier this year. Parents can find out about exemplary school programs at digitalpromise.org and discover local programs in the “Learn” section of code.org. You can also supplement what’s available at school with options like these:

Toys. Three dimensional playthings can teach kids the kind of logical sequencing that is at the heart of programming. Code-A-Pillar, coming soon from Fisher Price, is a caterpillar that does different things depending on how a toddler sequences its segments ($50). Makerbloks.com sells domino size blocks that have different functions. Kids six and up can snap them together to tell stories or create devices like a burglar alarm or a voice changing microphone ($125). Circuit Maze from thinkfun. com teaches kids to think logically about circuits with a series of 60 puzzles ($40). Bots. Robots and droids can be fun for the entire family, but many models are expensive, delicate or tricky to operate. Exceptions include Dash and Dot (makewonder.com), free-

standing, kid-friendly bots that can be controlled through an app. Sphero.com also sells several durable, rolling robots that will appeal to kids over 8, especially if they are Star Wars fans. Apps. A wide variety of apps claim to teach coding to kids. Two of the better ones come from Hopscotch (gethopscotch.com) Their signature program lets school age kids use code to design games and create artwork. A simpler program called Daisy the Dinosaur is available for preschoolers (Both free, Apple products). Kodable teaches coding practices by having 6-10 year olds maneuver furry, round aliens called Fuzzes through 30 increasingly difficult mazes by using visual arrow icons (Free. Multiple platforms. Kodable.com). The Foos asks elementary age kids to help cute characters solve problems that just happen to involve coding skills such as pattern recognition and sequencing (Free for most platforms. TheFoos.com). Lightbot is a slightly more abstract set of puzzles that can be addictive for older kids (Free for most platforms. Lightbot.com). Hybrids. Several interesting programs teach code with a combination of tangible objects and apps. Bloxels has kids 8-12 create video games by inserting brightly colored blocks into a grid to create a pixellated image. Capture the image on a smart phone and an app helps you convert it into a game with characters and obstacles (bloxelsbuilder.com). Bitsbox.com has a free website, but it also offers a subscription service for elementary school kids. Once a month, kids get a box of new programming challenges along with stickers, small toys and trading cards. Clubs. Cs-first.com offers free modules that can be used in afterschool programs or summer camps. The materials are built around Scratch, a coding language devised at MIT (scratch.mit.edu) and are targeted to students in 4th-8th grade. All you need to start a club is a willing adult and access to one Internet-enabled device for each club member. Lessons. For children who develop a taste for coding, several organizations offer a more systematic way to become proficient. Code.org has links to “Hour of Code” projects that offer free one-hour tutorials introducing students to code. They also have a series of 43

videos that help kids master basic algorithms and offer inspiration from master coders like Bill Gates and Mark Zuckerberg. Pluralsight, a company that provides online training to adults by subscription, offers several free classes for kids at pluralsight.com/kids-courses. At Codeacademy.com, teens who are motivated can master several programming languages through free interactive lessons. Finally, Tynker. com, a program widely used by schools, offers over 1000 coding activities with kid appeal to families willing to pay a monthly subscription. Try the free apps, available for Android and Apple, before signing up. Camps. Summer is a great time to learn a new skill, and several camps will immerse kids in code. IDtech.com offers camps exploring a variety of technical topics at over 150 locations, including many campuses with prestigious CS programs. Their website makes it easy to find an experience that’s age appropriate for kids 7-18. The Emagination program intersperses lessons in coding with more traditional camp activities. Information about locations and programs, including a popular Minecraft session, is available at computercamps.com. Just for Girls. In the past, boys gravitated towards programming more readily than girls. A number of organizations are trying to reverse that trend. Madewithcode.com, a Google initiative, features exciting coding projects developed by young women. Girlswhocode. com sponsors tech clubs and summer camps for girls. And Girldevelopit.com offers supportive women-only classes in 52 US cities. Stuff around the House. CSunplugged.org promises to teach kids some of the basic concepts of computer science through games and puzzles that use inexpensive materials like cards, string, ping pong balls and crayons probably lying around your house. The site which is popular with educators includes downloads and videos explaining how to make use of the materials. With so many options available, every parent should be able to find a program or project that matches your child’s age and temperament as well as the family’s schedule and budget. So what are you waiting for? Get your kids coding now! Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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Single parents have Play to Others’ important (and seemingly Strengths. Consider endless) responsibilities. who is best at what 1. For bright ideas to improve your relationship with Unless you have super and take preferpowers, the stress of doing your kids and take better care of yourself, read Jennifer ences into account. it all yourself can be overIf the kids’ grandWolf’s Single Parents Blog at singleparents.about.com. whelming. But asking for parents get frazzled 2. For wise tips and practical tools to help you achieve assistance isn’t easy. by babysitting, they co-parenting synergy, download “Co-Parenting After “It can be an act of might prefer to host a tremendous courage, family dinner once a Divorce” from the University of New Hampshire’s Coophumility, or coordination to week to stay involved erative Extension program at www.extension.unh.edu/ seek out help,” says family and give you a break. resources (click Families and Parenting). counselor Suzanne HarThat’s okay. You want rington, MA. Single parents 3. For kid-friendly advice on living with a single parent, this to be a win-win want to feel competent situation. direct kids to www.kidshealth.org/kid/feeling/home_ and in-control and asking family/single-parents.html and have a heart-to-heart Help Kids Help for help can make us feel about feelings and concerns. You. Determine what weak or inadequate. kinds of contributions Even if you would like are age-appropriate to have help, you may feel important members of the household, says for each child. Your you have few resources. Donna Genett, PhD, author of If You Want six-year-old may be too young to vacuum, “Today’s families are quite isolated from It Done Right You Don’t Have to Do It Your- but she can set the table or sort the reextended family and community,” Harcycling. Older kids can take turns folding rington says. People we might ask for help self. Pitching in builds kids’ competence and provides a sense of accomplishment laundry or helping put away groceries. Be are not always accessible. Grandparents and belonging. sure to praise kids for work well-done. may be far away, busy with their own lives or unwilling to take on childcare responBe Clear. When you seek help, Discovering the Joys sibilities. Feelings of mistrust or concerns explain exactly what you want. Misunthat help-seeking might be used against of Teamwork derstandings happen when we assume you in an angry custody dispute may Slow down, superhero. Follow these others know our expectations. If you want prevent you from seeking an ex-spouse’s steps to reach out and reconnect with the bathroom squeaky-clean, explain what assistance. sources of support. clean means: towels hung up neatly, bath toys picked up, toilet and tub scrubbed, Identify Needs. Start out by figuring Listen Up, Stressed-Out floor mopped. Set helpers up for success. out what concrete help would be most

Super Single-Parent Resources

Superheroes

Asking for help is smart, even when you feel you can manage alone. Studies show social support reduces the negative health effects of stress, including coronary disease and immune suppression, and boosts your sense of personal balance and well-being. You’ll have more energy and a more positive outlook with a team of trusted helpers around you. Parents who seek help can model reciprocity, humbleness, and gratitude, says Harrington. Kids also gain exposure to other role models. “It benefits children so much to have other adults interacting with them,” says parent coach and psychotherapist Tammy Gold, LCSW, author of Secrets of the Nanny Whisperer. This is especially true when a single mom gets help from her father, Gold says, because the child is nurtured by both female and male family members. The helping community you create for your kids will likely inspire them to pitch in, too. Even young children want to feel like

beneficial, Harrington advises. Perhaps you need childcare so you can work, attend school, get counseling, or just relax. A home-cooked meal once a week might lift your burden and brighten your spirits. The more specific your needs, the easier it will be to get help. Brainstorm Buddies. Develop a list of resources, including family and friends, and church and community services. Don’t be afraid to put formal sources of support, such as counseling groups, on your list. Individual or group therapy can help you heal after divorce and learn to thrive as a single parent. Talk Teamwork. If you’re on good terms with your ex, have a conversation about your parenting roles. Take a problem-solving approach. Say, “The kids need more help with science homework than I can give them,” rather than criticizing “You never help the kids with homework.” 45

Praise Progress. You may not get the results you want right away, but be generous with your appreciation. Recognize others’ efforts, instead of focusing on their shortcomings. When you’re sure they know how much you value their help, explain how they could improve. Then say thanks (again). You really can’t thank them enough. The pressure to be a single-parentsuperhero can be strong, and you may avoid asking for help because you fear you can’t reciprocate. “People don’t help because they expect your assistance in return,” says Gold. They help because they love you and care about your family. Remind yourself that everyone benefits from meaningful social connections and take pride in the helpful community you’re creating for yourself and your kids. AOP Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist and mom who has learned firsthand the benefits of seeking help when times are tough. She is the author of Detachment Parenting.

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Family Calendar Ongoing:

A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an all-inclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-7281162 or email: momofpnk@gmail.com. Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-705-8877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Alabama Shakespeare Festival. www.asf.net. Auburn Area Community Theatre presents “Red Velvet Cake War” May 6 - 15. Jan Dempsey Community Arts. www.auburnact.org. Bible Study Fellowship Held at Parkway Baptist Church, Thursdays at 10 a.m., (334) 546-1386. Birmingham Children’s Theatre • “Jack and the Beanstalk”. Through April 22. • “Pinocchio”. April 5 - 27. Birmingham Children’s Theatre. www.bbc123.org. Bosom Buddies (a breast cancer support group) Meets at The Health Resource Center the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. (334) 528-1260. www.eamc.org. Capitol Showcase Consumer Art Exhibition May 4 - June 29. Alabama State Capital. www.mh.alabama.gov/capitalshowcase Center for Puppetry Arts www.atlanta.net. Chick-fil-A Family Night at Tigertown Every Thursday night. DeSoto Caverns Park www.DeSotoCavernsPark.com. Discovery Hikes Explore the preserve and learn something new each month about plants, wildlife and nature with a trained naturalist who will offer your family fun opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and exercise! Discovery Hikes are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. For families with children ages 5 to 12. Free admission. Donations welcomed. Cancelled in the event of rain. Forest Ecology Preserve & Nature Center is located at 2222 N. College Street, Auburn, and is just north of the AU Fisheries complex. “Doublewide, Texas” April 28 - May 7. A play by Hope, Wooten, & Jones. Red Door Theatre, Union Springs. www.reddoortheatre.org. Expressions of a BraveHeart Program A fine arts program for teens and young adults with special needs (ages 11–21), sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation, utilizing Auburn University faculty and students, as well as community volunteers. Two 30-minute sessions of art, dance/creative movement and music will be offered and participants will select 2 of the 3 classes. Expressions meets every 2nd and 4th Monday twice a month for 1.5 hours. Opelika Sportsplex, 334.705.5560. www.opelikasportsplex.com. The Fox Theatre www.foxtheatre.org. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center • Art Gallery Spring Exhibition: Forty 2 Fifty Plus. March 22 - April 29. • Spring Photography Show. April 1 - 29. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Auburn. www.auburnalabama.org/parks. Jule Collins Smith Museum • Face to Face: Artists Self Portraits from the Collection of Jackey and Curtis Finch Jr. April 2 - August 7. • Winter Denizens, The Sweet Birds Sing Selected Works from the Louise Hauss and David Brent Miller Au. Through May 15. Jule Collins Smith Museum, Auburn. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. “Leading Ladies” May 6 - 14. LaFayette Theatre Company. www.lsparts.org.

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

April/May2016

Lee County Department of Human Resources Now recruiting foster/adoptive families. To learn more about fostering and adoption please call our office at 334-737-1100. Please join us in this endeavor to help our foster children. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that are waiting to adopt are welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net for more information. McWane Science Center • Body Worlds Rx. Through May 1. McWane Science Center, B’ham. www.mcwane.org. Meditation Garden and Labyrinth Come and Find the Quiet Center... in the Meditation Garden and Labyrinth, provided as a community service by Village Christian Church, 700 East University Drive, (across from Auburn Early Ed.). 334-887-5111. Try the practice of walking meditation or simply sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. The garden and labyrinth are always open and guests are always welcome. Miracle League To volunteer or for more information, www.miraclefield. org or eamiracleleague@gmail.com. Montgomery Zoo www.montgomeryzoo.com. Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974. Pioneer Museum Pioneer Museum, Troy. www.pioneer-museum.org. Riverside Theatre Riverside Theatre, Columbus State. www.theatre.columbusstate.edu/productions Samford University • Annual Juried Student Art Show. April 4 - 26. Samford University. www.tickets.samford.edu “Sister Act” May 6 - 22. Bham. www.redmountaintheatre.org Southeastern Plein Air Invitational Mar 28 - April 30. Gadsden.www.gadsdenmuseum.com. Summer Flower Splash May 1 - 29. Jasmine Hill Gardens, Wetumpka. www.jasminehill.org Telfair Peet Theatre • “The Integration of Tuskegee High School”. April 14 - 24. Telfair Peet Theatre. www.cla.auburn.edu/theatre. Therapeutic Foster Care Program Foster a Child’s Future Today - Become a Therapeutic Foster Parent! Certification classes are free. Please call Joanna Fisher Champagne at Lee County Youth Development Center’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program. (334) 749-2996, Ext. 311 - You can make an eternal difference in a child’s life! ”To Kill a Mockingbird” May 6 - 21. Theatrical Production. Monroeville. Facebook “Tom Sawyer” April 22 - May 6. Family Theatre, Columbus. www.familytheatre.org Virginia Samford Theatre Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham. www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org. XBAR Fitness For Youth For all fitness levels. Mondays 5:15 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. $65/6 weeks. Megan.Linge@gmail.com.

Parents Support & Moms Groups

Auburn Mommies, a fun group of moms in the Auburn/Opelika area that meet weekly for playgroups and Mommy and Me walking twice a week. We also have a Mommies Night Out once a month. Http:// groups.yahoo.com/group/auburnmommiesinalabama/. Auburn Mommy and Me Big Dog Running Co, Auburn. 10–11 a.m. Social time,

story time, music/movement, arts & crafts. Ages 9 months–3 years. Free! 334-209-2580. Auburn MOPS 1st Wednesday of each month, September-May. 9–11:30 a.m. Trinity United Methodist Church, Opelika. Meetings open to moms with preschool children ages 5 years and under. $5 per meeting; childcare $5 per child. $25 yearly membership dues. Weekly playdates, monthly moms night out, resources, and more. www.facebook.com/ AuburnOpelikaMOPS; AUMOPS@yahoo.com. Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register. La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. @ Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, Airport Plaza, 323 Airport Road Suite E, Auburn. For more information call LLL of Auburn/Opelika, Leader, Josie Ettinger (h)334257-3950 or (c)334-740-8780. Main Street Farmer’s Market June 14-October 25. Broad Street, Alexander City. 256-329-9227. MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids. New website is www.auburnmoms.com. Parent Educational Workshop - Autism 2nd Tuesday of each month, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika. Parent Support Group - Autism 1st Monday (unless national holiday), 9:00-11:00 a.m. Location varies so check www.leecountyautism.com for complete information. Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama offers 2nd Saturdays, group classes, and more. Contact Penny Messer at 334-444-6827. Email smoea@bellsouth. net. Website www.smoea.vpweb.com or find us on facebook. Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@insideyfc.com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com.

Mom’s Morning Out

Auburn United Methodist Church, Children’s Day Out Program, every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.–12 noon. $10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information. Trinity United Methodist Church (Opelika) Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45–12. $15 per child, $5 each additional.

Support Groups

Caregiver Support Group Caring for a family member or friends can be rewarding, but it’s not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your parents, spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn ways to cope with every day stresses of caring for someone you love. Gain tools and resources to help you on your journey. This program is supported by the Opelika Sportsplex, Lee-Russell Agency on Aging and HomeInstead Senior Care. This group is open to the public. Meets the last Monday of each month at 12:30 p.m. at Opelika Sportsplex AAC. Instructors are: Valeri White (Sportsplex), Bridgette Sager (Home Instead Senior Care), Lisa Askew (Lee-Russell Council of Gov). Food Allergy Support of East Alabama The Food Allergy Support of East Alabama group offers support through the sharing of information and resources. We are also working to increase awareness of food allergies in the state of Alabama. For more information, visit our website at www.foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334-826-3082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net.

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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

Sports

Auburn Baseball April 16, 19, 26, 29, 30. May 1, 10, 13, 14, 15, 17. Auburn Softball April 20, 22, 23, 24. May 6, 7, 8. Auburn Track and Field April 22, 23. Columbus Lions Indoor Football April 16, 23. May 7. Montgomery Biscuits Baseball April 16, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26. May 4-13, 25-29. June 5-9. www.biscuitsbaseball.com.

Tuesday, April 26

Meet Me @ the Museum Columbus Museum. www.columbusmuseum.com Baby Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Wednesday, April 27 Tim O’Brien BJCC. www.bjcc.org Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Thursday, April 28

Dr. Chandler and Jane Paris Smith Opera Series: On the Town Samford University. www.tickets.samford.edu “The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org A Little Lunch Music 12 p.m. Jule Collins Smith Museum. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Jazz! Food! Art! 5 p.m. Jule Collins Smith Museum. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Maestro for a Moment RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. www.rivercenter.org 12th Annual Auburn CityFest Juried Art Preview Exhibition Reception 5:30 p.m. Kiesel Park, Auburn. www.auburnalabama. org Listen To Your Mother BJCC. www.bjcc.org Preschool Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library Gamer’s Society Auburn Public Library. 4 p.m. Ages 10-18. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Friday, April 29

GEICO 500 Weekend Talladega Superspeedway. www.talladegasuperspeedway.com Confederate Park Civil War Military & Civilian

April/May2016

Life Living History Marbhury. www.exploresouthernhistory.com/confederatepark Geneva Festival on the Rivers www.genevariverfestival.com Dr. Chandler and Jane Paris Smith Opera Series: On the Town Samford University. www.tickets.samford.edu “The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org Spring Swing Woodruff Park, Columbus. www.coa.columbusstate.edu/springswing

Saturday, April 30

Walk the Walk: A Walk for Women’s Hope 9 a.m. 832 Stage Rd, Auburn or Trinity Presbyterian Church, Opelika. www.walkthewalk2016.com. Southern Makers Union Station Train Shed, Montgomery. www.southernmakers.com 22nd Annual Fitzgerald Gala and Auction Montgomery. www.fitzgeraldmuseum.org Three Notch Market Andalusia. www.ajwcthreenotchmarket.com Auburn Cityfest Kiesel Park, Auburn. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.auburncityfest.com Geneva Festival on the Rivers www.genevariverfestival.com George Washington Carver Arts & Crafts Festival Downtown Square, Tuskegee. www.tuskegeeareachamber.org Dr. Chandler and Jane Paris Smith Opera Series: On the Town Samford University. www.tickets.samford.edu TroyFest www.troyfestarts.com Weogufka Mule Day 2016 www.weofufkacenter.org “The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org Young Eagles Day–FREE Airplane Rides for Kids! Columbus Airport. Ages 8-17. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-324-2453. GEICO 500 Weekend Talladega Superspeedway. www.talladegasuperspeedway.com Discover Silk Painting with Rene Shoemaker Columbus Museum. www.columbusmuseum.com Cardboard Boat Race Opelika SportsPlex. www.opelikasportsplex.com Confederate Park Civil War Military & Civilian Life Living History Marbhury. www.exploresouthernhistory.com/confederatepark Legomania Auburn Public Library. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library Weatherfest McWane Science Center, Bham. www.mcwane.org Auburn CityFest 2016 Kiesel Park. 9 a.m. www.auburncityfest.com Huka Entertainment Presents Kiefer Sutherland Bham. www.huka.com

Sunday, May 1

Southern Makers Union Station Train Shed, Montgomery. www.southernmakers.com Geneva Festival on the Rivers www.genevariverfestival.com April 30-May 1- TroyFest. www.troyfestarts.com GEICO 500 Weekend Talladega Superspeedway. www.talladegasuperspeedway.com Huka Entertainment Presents Kiefer Sutherland Bham. www.huka.com AU Singers Spring Concert 2:30 p.m. Telfair Peet Theatre. www.auburn.edu

TroyFest www.troyfestarts.com PianoMania 4 p.m. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. www.rivercenter.org Southern Bazaar BJCC. www.bjcc.org

Tuesday, May 3

Summer Swing: OHS Symphonic, Concert, and Jazz Bands 7 p.m. Municipal Park, Opelika. www.opelikasportsplex.com Baby Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Wednesday, May 4

The Museum Awakens: Star Wars Day Tour Columbus Museum. www.columbusmuseum.com Noon Tunes: Larcus ‘Silky Tone’ Fuller 12 noon. Courthouse Square, Opelika. www.opelikasportsplex.com Paul Simon BJCC. www.bjcc.org Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Thursday, May 5

Sundown Concert Series at Town Creek Park 6 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org “The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org A Cappella Choir Spring Concert Samford University. www.tickets.samford.edu Cinco De Mayo Program Birmingham Civil Rights Institute. www.bcri.org National Day of Prayer at the American Village Montevallo.www.americanvillage.org A Little Lunch Music: Flutist Ty Gable with Guitarist Katie Holmes 12 p.m. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Young Art Patrons Artists Living Unplugged Columbus Museum. www.columbusmuseum.com Celtic Woman. BJCC. www.bjcc.org Preschool Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library Gamer’s Society Auburn Public Library. 4 p.m. Ages 10-18. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Friday, May 6

“The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org AACT’s “The Red Velvet Cake War” Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. www.auburnalabama.org Sweet Auburn Spring Fest 2016 Atl. www.sweetauburn.com 12th Annual Gulf Coast Hot Air Balloon Festival Foley. www.gulfcoastballoonfestival.com Celebrating Spring with Dance Bham. www.asfa.k12.al.us 31st Annual Race Fever Fan Frenzy Talladega. www.racefever.org Cullman StrawberryFest Cullman. www.facebook.com/CullmanStrawberryfest Uptown’s Riverfest 2016 Woodruff Park, Columbus. www.uptowncolumbusga.com First Fridays ‘Satin Soul’ Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m. www.eventcenterdowntown.com Elizabeth Cook BJCC. www.bjcc.org

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Family Calendar Saturday, May 7

Touch a Truck Landmark Park, Dothan. www.landmarkparkdothan.com AACT’s “The Red Velvet Cake War” Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. www.auburnalabama.org “The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org Sweet Auburn Spring Fest 2016 Atl. www.sweetauburn.com Cottin Pickin Fair 2016 Gay, Ga. www.cpfair.com Craftin’ & Carvin’ at the Legion Richland, Ga. www.richlandgalegionpo.wix.com Stick Horse Derby FDR State Park. 3 p.m. 706-663-4858. Blessing of the Fleet Bayou La Batre. www.fleetblessing.org Celebrating Spring with Dance Bham. www.asfa.k12.al.us 43rd Annual Southern Appalachian Dulcimer Festival Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park, McCalla. www.tannehill.org Birmingham Rose Show Birmingham Botanical Gardens. www.BirminghamRose.org Iron Pour Tannehill Ironworks State Historical Park. McCalla. www.tannehill.org We Love Homewood Day www.homewoodparks.com Derby Day at the Stables Alexander City. www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com Agape’s Run For A Mom 5k & Fun Run Vaughn Park Church of Christ, Montgomery. www.agapeforchildren.org The Montgomery Zoo. www.montgomeryzoo.com Old Alabama Town Herb Society Herb Day Festival Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. www.oathsblog.com The Flimp Festival Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. www.mmfa.org Youth Fishing Derby Talladega National Forest. 256-362-2909. Cullman StrawberryFest Cullman. www.facebook.com/CullmanStrawberryfest Boll Weevil 100 Bicycle Ride & 10K Road Run Jasper. www.enterpriselionsclub.com 40th Annual Hike/Bike/Run Valley Haven School, Valley. www.valleyhavenschool.org Children’s Festival in the Park Enterprise. www.enterpriseal.gov Touch A Truck Landmark Park, Dothan. www.landmarkparkdothan.com 37th Annual Chunnenuggee Fair Union Springs. www.chunnenuggeefair.com Garden in the Park Municipal Park, Opelika. 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. 334-749-4970 Uptown’s Riverfest 2016 Woodruff Park, Columbus. www.uptowncolumbusga.com Market Days Book Signings Columbus State Bookstore. www.uptowncolumbusga.com Legomania Auburn Public Library. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library Home Depot Kids Workshop Angry Bird’s Birdhouse 9 a.m. Opelika. www.homedepot.com Denim & Diamonds: Awards Gala & Fundraiser Presented by Lee County Association of Realtors. Auburn Hotel & Conference Center. 6:00 p.m. Benefitting the Food Bank of East Alabama and Mercy Medical Clinic. 334-321-0606.

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

April/May2016

Sunday, May 8

AACT’s “The Red Velvet Cake War” Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. www.auburnalabama.org Sweet Auburn Spring Fest 2016 Atl. www.sweetauburn.com Cottin Pickin Fair 2016 Gay, Ga. www.cpfair.com Blessing of the Fleet Bayou La Batre. www.fleetblessing.org Celebrating Spring with Dance Bham. www.asfa.k12.al.us Birmingham Rose Show Birmingham Botanical Gardens. www.BirminghamRose.org Mother’s Day Special: Free Admission for Mom The Montgomery Zoo. www.montgomeryzoo.com Mother’s Day Brunch The Hotel at Auburn University. 11 a.m. 334-844-5140. Mother’s Day: Free Moms at McWane McWane Science Center, Bham. www.mcwane.org

Monday, May 9

Yatta Abba Day Abbeville. www.facebook.com/yattaabbaday Tiger Strings Concert 7 p.m. Telfair Peet Theatre. www.auburn.edu

Tuesday, May 10

Broadway Boys Live in Concert Troy. www.troyartscouncil.com Discovery Hike Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. 3:30 p.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve Summer Swing: LSA Jazz Band 7 p.m. Municipal Park, Opelika. www.opelikasportsplex.com Baby Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Wednesday, May 11 Noon Tunes: Strawberry Whine 12 noon. Courthouse Square, Opelika. www.opelikasportsplex.com Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Thursday, May 12

Sundown Concert Series at Town Creek Park 6 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org “The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org AACT’s “The Red Velvet Cake War” Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. www.auburnalabama.org Alabama Master Gardeners Association State Conference Dothan. www.alabamamg.org S’more Fun with Mom Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. 6-8:30 p.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve Nature Walk Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. 8:30 a.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve A Little Lunch Music: Soprano Joy Xu with Pianist Maggie Stith 12 p.m. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Cupcakes and Cocktails The Rankin Gardens & Atrium, Columbus. 706-649-1696. Preschool Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Gamer’s Society Auburn Public Library. 4 p.m. Ages 10-18. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Friday, May 13

“The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org AACT’s “The Red Velvet Cake War” Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. www.auburnalabama.org Shaky Knees Music Fest Atl. www.shakykneesfestival.com Buck Creek Festival Helena. www.buckcreekfestival.com Buddy Buie’s ‘Faula Fest Eufaula. www.samcfoundation.org Friday On The Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. Facebook Prattville CityFest www.prattvillecityfest.com Alabama Master Gardeners Association State Conference Dothan. www.alabamamg.org S’more Fun with Mom Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. 6-8:30 p.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve “The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org The Big To Do Concert Series ‘Cale Dodds’ Uptown Columbus. www.uptowncolumbus.ga

Saturday, May 14

24th Annual Fishing Rodeo 8 a.m. www.auburnalabama.org Wandering Through Wondrous Gardens 2016 www.leemg.org Tiger Kids Tri www.triauburnal.com “The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org AACT’s “The Red Velvet Cake War” Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. www.auburnalabama.org Shaky Knees Music Fest Atl. www.shakykneesfestival.com Orange Beach Wine Festival www.wavesofwine.com Thunder On the Bay Dauphin Island. www.dauphinisland.org Buck Creek Festival Helena. www.buckcreekfestival.com 22nd Annual Creek Bank Festival Leeds. www.leedsareachamber.com Buddy Buie’s ‘Faula Fest Eufaula. www.samcfoundation.org Springfest in Brundidge Facebook. Camp Smile-a-Mile Ride of Love Children’s Harbor, Lake Martin. 256-234-34610. 22nd Annual Cotton Patch Festival Uriah. 251-862-2279. Second Saturday Riverfront Park, Montgomery. www.funinmontgomery.com Prattville CityFest www.prattvillecityfest.com National Get Outdoors Day Talladega National Forest. 256-362-2909. 24th Annual Fishing Rodeo Auburn Technology Park South. www.auburnalabama.org/parks Alabama Master Gardeners Association State Conference Dothan. www.alabamamg.org River City Festival Columbia. www.facebook.com/ColumbiaAla

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Family Calendar Wandering Through Wondrous Gardens 2016 presented by Lee County Master Gardeners www.leemg.org Tiger Kids Tri Auburn. www.triauburnal.com “The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org Crayons, Crafts and Kool Aids Outdoor Vending Fair Columbus. www.uptowncolumbusga.com The Princess and the Frog RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. www.rivercenter.org Second Saturday Lee County Historical Society Museum. Loachapoka. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org Bill Engvall Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. www.ticketmaster.com Legomania Auburn Public Library. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library Itty Bitty Birthday McWane Science Center, Bham. www.mcwane.org Hall of Heroes: Discover your Super Powers McWane Science Center, Bham. www.mcwane.org 24th Annual Fishing Rodeo 8 a.m. www.auburnalabama.org 2nd Annual Royalty Run sponsored by Make Your Move Performing Arts Dance Studio www.facebook.com/MYMRoyaltyRun

Sunday, May 15

Wandering Through Wondrous Gardens 2016 www.leemg.org AACT’s “The Red Velvet Cake War” Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. www.auburnalabama.org Shaky Knees Music Fest Atl. www.shakykneesfestival.com Thunder On the Bay Dauphin Island. www.dauphinisland.org Wandering Through Wondrous Gardens 2016 presented by Lee County Master Gardeners www.leemg.org Tiger Tri Sprint Triathlon Auburn. www.triauburnal.com “The Who’s Tommy” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org The Princess and the Frog RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. www.rivercenter.org Atlanta Symphony Orchestra: The Golden Age of Broadway Atl. www.ticketmaster.com

Monday, May 16

AACT Auditions: Monty Python’s Spamalot Ages 18 and up. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. www.auburnalabama.org

Tuesday, May 17

Homeschool Workshop: Explorations in Drawing Columbus Museum. www.columbusmuseum.com Meet Me @ the Museum Columbus Museum. www.columbusmuseum.com AACT Auditions: Monty Python’s Spamalot Ages 18 and up. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. www.auburnalabama.org Summer Swing: East Alabama Community Band 7 p.m. Municipal Park, Opelika. www.opelikasportsplex.com Baby Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

April/May2016

Wednesday, May 18 Rihanna: Anti World Tour 2016 Phillips Arena, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com Noon Tunes: Martha’s Trouble 12 noon. Courthouse Square, Opelika. www.opelikasportsplex.com Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library Rihanna: Anti World Tour 2016 Philips Arena. www.ticketmaster.com

East Alabama Old Car Club 42nd Annual Old Car Show Opelika. Super Saturday Family Day LaGrange Art Museum. www.lagrangeartmuseum.org Great Southern Gun & Knife Show BJCC. www.bjcc.org Legomania Auburn Public Library. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library Ranger Day McWane Science Center, Bham. www.mcwane.org

Thursday, May 19

Sunday, May 22

Sundown Concert Series at Town Creek Park Auburn. www.auburnalabama.org/parks A Little Lunch Music: Cellist Laura Usiskin 12 p.m. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Third Thursday Poetry Series 6 p.m. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. www.jcsm.auburn.edu The Mystery of Irma Vep CSU Riverside Theatre Complex, Columbus. www.uptowncolumbusga.com The American Songbook: Gems by the Gershwins and Cole Porter www.rivercenter.org Preschool Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library Gamer’s Society Auburn Public Library. 4 p.m. Ages 10-18. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Friday, May 20

The Hangout Music Festival 2016 Gulf Shores. www.hangoutmusicfest.com Friday On The Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. Facebook RiverJam & Riverbend Brewfest Riverwalk, Montgomery. www.funinmontgomery.com Foster Fest Dothan. www.thedowntowngroup.com The Mystery of Irma Vep CSU Riverside Theatre Complex, Columbus. www.uptowncolumbusga.com The Big To Do Concert Series ‘The Di Evans Band’ Uptown Columbus. www.uptowncolumbus.ga

Saturday, May 21

42nd Annual Old Car Show 1220 Fox Run Ave, Opelika. 334-826-9826. Beer, Bourbon, and BBQ Festival Atlantic Station. 404-410-4010. Kids to Parks Day FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. 706-663-4858. The Hangout Music Festival 2016 Gulf Shores. www.hangoutmusicfest.com 7th Annual Bob Sykes BBQ & Blues Festival Bessemer. www.bobsykesblues.com The Festival at the Well Glenwood. Facebook. RiverJam & Riverbend Brewfest Riverwalk, Montgomery. www.funinmontgomery.com 4th Annual Armed Forces Day Car & Motorcycle Show Brent. www.facebook.com/ ArmedForcesDayCarandMotorcycleShow Cahaba Lily Festival West Blockton. www.cahabalily.com Paddlin’ 4 Paws Cardboard Boat Regatta Races Lake Wedowee. 256-276-3901.

The Hangout Music Festival 2016 Gulf Shores. www.hangoutmusicfest.com Great Southern Gun & Knife Show BJCC. www.bjcc.org

Tuesday, May 24

Summer Swing: Conner Lorre, Neil Diamond Tribute Artist 7 p.m. Municipal Park, Opelika. www.opelikasportsplex.com Baby Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Wednesday, May 25 Orange Beach Billfish Classic The Wharf, Orange Beach. www.orangebeachbillfishclassic.com Noon Tunes: Muse 12 noon. Courthouse Square, Opelika. www.opelikasportsplex.com Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Thursday, May 26

Sundown Concert Series at Town Creek Park 6 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org Orange Beach Billfish Classic The Wharf, Orange Beach. www.orangebeachbillfishclassic.com Sundown Concert Series at Town Creek Park Auburn. www.auburnalabama.org/parks The Mystery of Irma Vep CSU Riverside Theatre Complex, Columbus. www.uptowncolumbusga.com Preschool Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library Gamer’s Society Auburn Public Library. 4 p.m. Ages 10-18. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Friday, May 27

57th Master’s Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com Atlanta Jazz Festival Atl. facebook Golden Donut Dash & Splash at Liberty Bell Pool Pine Mountain, Ga. 706-663-4858. Orange Beach Billfish Classic The Wharf, Orange Beach. www.orangebeachbillfishclassic.com 39th Annual 2016 MBGFC Memorial Day Tournament Orange Beach. www.mbgfc.org/memorialday Friday On The Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. Facebook RXR Fest Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. www.russellcrossroads.com

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Family Calendar

April/May2016

Montgomery Symphony Jubilee Pops Concert Alabama Archives and Historic Building Lawn. www.montgomerysymphony.org Memorial Day Weekend Featuring the 56th Annual Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament www.callawaygardens.com The Mystery of Irma Vep CSU Riverside Theatre Complex, Columbus. www.uptowncolumbusga.com The Big To Do Concert Series ‘The Zac Laughlin Band’ Uptown Columbus. www.uptowncolumbus.ga

www.uptowncolumbusga.com Crayons, Crafts and Kool Aids Outdoor Vending Fair Columbus. www.uptowncolumbusga.com The Mystery of Irma Vep CSU Riverside Theatre Complex, Columbus. www. uptowncolumbusga.com 5th Annual Bugs on the Hooch Woodruff Park, Columbus. Facebook. Young Eagles Day–FREE Airplane Rides for Kids! Columbus Airport. Ages 8-17. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-324-2453.

Saturday, May 28

57th Master’s Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com Atlanta Jazz Festival Atlanta. Facebook Orange Beach Billfish Classic The Wharf, Orange Beach. www.orangebeachbillfishclassic.com 39th Annual 2016 MBGFC Memorial Day Tournament Orange Beach. www.mbgfc.org/memorialday RXR Fest Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. www.russellcrossroads.com Art on the Lake Children’s Harbor, Lake Martin. www.childrensharbor.com

57th Master’s Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com Atlanta Caribbean Carnival Atlanta. www.atlantacarnival.org Auburn City Pools Open Today Atlanta Jazz Festival Atl. facebook Orange Beach Billfish Classic The Wharf, Orange Beach. www.orangebeachbillfishclassic.com 39th Annual 2016 MBGFC Memorial Day Tournament Orange Beach. www.mbgfc.org/memorialday Memorial Day Tribute Fort Morgan. www.fort-morgan.org RXR Fest Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. www.russellcrossroads.com Art on the Lake Children’s Harbor, Lake Martin. www.childrensharbor.com Moms Tell the Truth East Alabama Birth Village. www.birthvillage.org 2nd Annual Summer Reading Program Kickoff: “Get in the Game: Read!” 10 a.m. Auburn Public Library. www.auburnalabama.org/library Legomania Auburn Public Library. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library Atlanta Symphony Orchestra: Michael Cavanaugh sings Music of Elton John Atl. www.ticketmaster.com Market Days Book Signings Columbus State Bookstore.

Sunday, May 29

Monday, May 30

39th Annual 2016 MBGFC Memorial Day Tournament Orange Beach. www.mbgfc.org/memorialday Memorial Day at the Alabama National Cemetery Montevallo. www.scalnc.org Memorial Day at the American Village Montevallo. www.americanvillage.org Bluegrass On The Plains Auburn. www.bluegrassontheplains.com

Tuesday, May 31 Summer Swing: Route 66 7 p.m. Municipal Park, Opelika. www.opelikasportsplex.com Bluegrass On The Plains Auburn. www.bluegrassontheplains.com

June

June 1-5. Bluegrass On The Plains Auburn. www.bluegrassontheplains.com June 2. Farm to Table Dinner Agricultural Alumni Association. 6 p.m. www.farmtotabledinner.weebly.com June 2-5. Atlanta Food & Wine Festival www.atlfoodandwinefestival.com June 3. Jerry Seinfeld RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. www.rivercenter.org June 4. Science On Saturdays Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, Auburn. 10 a.m. www.auburn.edu/preserve June 4. Annual Lion Tamers Day 10 a.m. Covington Rec. www.opelikasportsplex.com June 5. Harry Connick, Jr. BJCC www.bjcc.org June 7-8. Chastain Park Arts Festival Atl. www.chastainparkartsfestival.com June 9. Selena Gomez Philips Arena. www.ticketmaster.com June 9. Covington Movie Club: The Good Dinosaur Covington Rec. 3:30 p.m. www.opelikasportsplex.com June 9. Float-n-Movie Samford Pool, Auburn. 8:15 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org June 10. SummerNight Art Walk Downtown Auburn. 6 p.m. www.auburnsummernight.org June 10. Girl’s Night Out 6 p.m. Covington Rec. www.opelikasportsplex.com June 11. Keith Urban- ripCORD World Tour 2016 Atl. www.ticketmaster.com June 13. Day in the Life: Police Academy Opelika SportsPlex. www.opelikasportsplex.com June 23. On the Town Opelika Mainstreet. 7 p.m. June 23. Covington Movie Club: Inside Out Covington Rec. 3:30 p.m. www.opelikasportsplex.com June 25. Day in Clay 1 p.m. Dean Rd Rec. Auburn. www.auburnalabama.org June 27-July 15. “Wicked” BJCC. www.bjcc.org

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

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Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

Giving Kids the Royal Treatment

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

The fairy tales of youth could be what launches our early interest in castles. These over-sized, elaborate structures are the ubiquitous lodging for kings and queens. These elaborate structures are the seat of power in countless imagined kingdoms. History also defines castles in various cultures as the nexus for events that changed the world. So it’s certainly a natural outcome that many kids find playing with castle toys part of their ultimate childhood fantasies. Whether they are enacting their own epic intrigues or playing out a version of scenarios from their favorite tales, castle toys are prime real estate every kid’s landscape!

by Gerry Paige Smith

org

My Soft World Block Set - Castle

Imaginext Lions Den Castle

Little hands have the tools they need to build their own small fiefdom with the My Soft World Castle Block Set. Featuring lightweight blocks and figures crafted with soft, yet durable foam, these pieces are the building blocks for a tiny realm that’s sized just right for the preschool crowd. No sharp edges or hard knocks come with this soft play set. With colorful graphics that add royal flair to the turrets and towers, plus a cast of characters ready to move in, this soft building set offers all the pretend-play elements for a child’s first castle adventures.

With the noble lion as its sigil and defender, this castle play set is ready for adventure. Designed for small hands and big imaginations, the Lions Den comes with fierce elements that will spark scenarios that change and evolve with each play session. Movable elements and parts allow kids to craft defensive actions or plan their own attacks on the fortifications – the adventures are theirs to design and implement. Including a raging lion and three characters with various armor and weapons, this set can also be expanded with additional figures to grow new stories from within the Imaginext Lions Den Castle.

(Fisher-Price)

(EduShape)

Knights Castle Tent

Fold & Go Wooden Castle

(Discover Kids)

For turn key castle play, the Discovery Kids Knights Castle Tent is a quick and easy way to create an instant fortress for kids to rule. Crafted with durable nylon, this play tent has a roof and floor that make it ideal for indoor and outdoor play. With colorful graphics and classic castle design elements (crenelations, arched windows, peaked roof) that reinforce the vibe, this tent quickly cultivates its own legendary pretend play. The tent poles are stretch-corded for easy assembly and fast break down. When the castle is uninhabited the whole edifice collapses to a flat, compact and handily portable package for the royals on the go.

(Melissa & Doug)

Ready to host epic adventures and intrigues, the Fold & Go Wooden Castle delivers royal recreation. Crafted from safe materials and high quality wood, this durable two-story play set comes with six figures and some movable furniture items to set the stage. The multiple rooms, parapets. staircases, and windows (plus a dungeon and a working drawbridge) create a setting that will instantly kick-start a child’s storytelling. When the castle is closed for adventure, it simply folds together, storing its pieces inside. The Fold & Go Castle from Melissa & Doug is a first choice for quality design and versatility of play.

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

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The Jungle Book (2016)

Barbershop:

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: C+ Sexual Content: A Language: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated The Jungle Book PG for some sequences of scary action and peril. For a second time Disney tackles the task of adapting Rudyard Kipling’s classic novel The Jungle Book for the big screen. In their 1967 version the studio used brightly colored animation and snappy tunes to tell the tale of a young orphan found alone in the jungle, rescued by a concerned panther and raised by a pack of wolves. This time around the story is being presented in live-action, with Neel Sethi playing the man-cub Mowgli, and a herd of humans using their best technical wizardry to bring to life a plethora of wild creatures. Their creative efforts are nothing short of spectacular! Partly because of the realism, and also thanks to a more action packed script, this 2016 production hits the ground running and seldom stops to catch its breath between scenes of peril. The biggest reason Mowgli is in constant danger is Shere Khan (voice of Idris Elba). This vengeful tiger informs the wolves that he will no longer tolerate the boy’s presence amongst the beasts and threatens to kill members of the pack if they will not surrender him. Realizing the only way to keep the man-cub safe is to return him to his own kind, the fatherly panther Bagheera (voice of Ben Kingsley) offers to escort the youngster to the closest man village. So after a tearful goodbye to his adaptive mother (voice of Lupita Nyong’o) the two begin their dangerous journey. Mowgli encounters many challenges along the way, such as separation from his protector, stampeding buffalo, the deadly embrace of Kaa the python (voice of Scarlett Johansson), kidnapping by monkeys and threats from an orangutan (voice of Christopher Walken) who calls himself King Louie, but behaves more like a mafia boss. He also faces some natural disasters (drought, floods, mudslides) and manmade hazards (a forest fire). Although moments of humor are included, like an opportunist bear named Baloo (voice of Bill Murray) who befriends the tike for his usefulness in getting honey, the life-endangering sequences will likely be too intense for little ones. If that describes your cubs, you may want to stick to the classic Disney cartoon until they are a bit older. For more mature audiences, who hopefully won’t be terrified by the scary characters and depictions of fighting, injury, and implied deaths, there are some great messages about the strength of working together despite differences. And thanks again to those amazing visual effects, this will be a thrill-filled rollercoaster jungle ride.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: BSexual Content: C+ Language: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Barbershop: The Next Cut PG-13 for sexual material and language. If there’s one thing you can say for this third iteration of the Barbershop franchise, it’s consistent. Like the two movies prior, Calvin’s (Ice Cube) Chicago barbershop sits within the tense urban scope of the city’s South Side. And, like those previous movies, the establishment is full of hair grooming professionals, including some new additions. The wall between the barbershop and the beauty salon has been pulled down, allowing both genders to banter back and forth over interpersonal relationships, sexual matters, politics and -- the top trending issue in this script -- neighborhood crime. Shootings on the South Side have reached epidemic proportions. Now the city is threatening to block off streets to control the movement of gang members, but that will also hinder businesses who are already struggling to survive. Amidst the barbershop discussions, the cutting characters (who include stars like Common, Cedric the Entertainer, Regina Hall, Sean Patrick Thomas and Eve) hatch a plan to try and negotiate a ceasefire between two gang rivals -- each of whom are patrons of the shop. The tense confrontation manages to score an agreement for a gunshot free weekend. With the hope of promoting the plan to the rest of Chicago, these creative stylists determine to offer free haircuts for the entire 48-hour period. This movie deserves high marks for having a message that encourages other viewers to try to do something similar. And don’t think the crime portrayed in this script is an exaggeration. But as much as these real world issues are promoted in this film, there is still a priority on comedy -- and that creates an awkward combination. Nearly non-stop sexual dialogue covers subjects ranging from President Obama having a floosy on the side (a more derogatory word than that is used to describe the female) to a poll on whether a woman’s first priority in finding a man should be the size of his genitals. Profanities are plentiful as well, including the expected single use of the sexual expletive, along with frequent scatological slangs, crude anatomical terms and mild profanities. This is a movie that’s full of good intentions for engaging citizens in bettering their community. Although the dramatic moments come off a little forced and sentimental, they offer a positive discussion seed that families could use to help grow their own ideas. However, the desire to integrate crass comedy within this scope will likely cut these viewers from Calvin’s customer’s list.

What Parents need to know about The Jungle Book...

Violence: Teens in a high school environment become involved in a fight. Two teens are approached by gang members -- another gang appears that protects the boys and offers them money with the implication they will be expected to support this gang. Shots are heard in the street and occupants of the barbershop drop to the floor in fear. Many discussions involve gun crime in Chicago. Sexual Content: Female buttock nudity is briefly seen. Many scenes include sexual language, crude anatomical references and innuendo. Men and women are seen embracing and kissing. A female character dresses in bra-like garment that expose most of her breasts. A woman becomes interested in a married man and makes overtures toward him. Comedic remarks are made about sexual accusations of real people like R. Kelly and Bill Cosby. Language: A single sexual expletive is used along with frequent scatological slang, mild profanity and vulgar terms. Frequent racial slurs are heard. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters drink hard liquor at a bar. Other references to drugs, alcohol and tobacco use are heard.

The Next Cut

What Parents need to know about Barbershop: The Next Cut...

Violence: Characters are constantly in peril, from other species, drought and famine, natural disasters and forest fires. Some of theses portrayals are quite intense and frightening. Verbal threats are uttered, especially by a tiger who wants revenge on a young boy and is willing to kill anything that gets in his way. Animals fight one another and bite, slash, toss and crush each other. Some bloody injuries are shown. Violent deaths are implied, but details are obscured or not shown on screen. Monkeys kidnap a boy and a large orangutan threatens and chases him. A building collapses and crushes the creatures inside. A snake coils around its prey and prepares to swallow it. A character is stung by bees and nearly trampled by stampeding animals. Characters run for their lives. A baby animal’s life is at risk and the adults in its herd are grief-stricken. Sexual Content: A boy is scantily clad. Language: Mild name-calling. Alcohol / Drug Use: None-noted. Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2016

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