November2019
Columns
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Volume 10 Number 9
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Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP
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Kids Health Watch
sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn
Common Sense Media
What parents need to know about social media and anxiety.
Raising Communicators
Teaching your kids to communicate well in the digital age.
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Everything in Between Common Sense Media
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A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith
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Dave Says Dave Ramsey
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Get This!
3 Good Things
How to start a family gratitude practice.
Holiday Happenings Lee County holiday parades, lights, musicals and more!
Gerry Paige Smith
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Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston
Departments On The Cover Grace Edwards is the daughter of Shannon Edwards (Auburn, AL) and Michael Edwards (Dothan, AL). She is a 5th grader at Pick Elementary School. Grace enjoys gymnastics at Auburn Gymnastics Academy, playing Lacrosse on the weekends, and doing art projects with her family. She loves attending Cornerstone Church and being involved in the children’s programs. Grace’s favorite holiday tradition is helping her momma decorate the house for Christmas.
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Bits and Pieces 10
Teacher of the Month 12
School Bits 44
Family Calendar 52
Movie Reviews 1
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Publisher’sNote I can’t believe how quickly this year has passed by! It’s almost time to ring in the new year. But before that, let’s slow down and focus on the upcoming holiday season. It will be here, celebrated, and then gone in a flash. With all the focus on Christmas décor, gifts and holiday traditions, Thanksgiving can easily get looked over and become an unappreciated holiday. Even in our house, we tend to go on a Thanksgiving vacation and rarely find ourselves seated around a family dinner table, passing turkey, dressing and pumpkin pie to family members. Last year, while on our vacation, we boated to a Disney Resort and feasted on an Authentic Italian meal and paused to say what each of us were thankful for. Not a traditional Thanksgiving meal, but we were together, making memories and feeling grateful for another year together. Some of our thoughts were that we were thankful to all be healthy, that we were having a successful school year and that there was more to be happy about than sad. All in all, we felt grateful for each other, our health and happiness. This year, our plans are to spend time with extended family and friends, sit around a dinner table and pass the casseroles and desserts! We are looking forward to a traditional Thanksgiving and a time to reflect on our year and our gratitude. What are your family’s plans this holiday season? Hopefully, they include thinking back over your year and remembering all the positive things that made it feel successful. That could be a new baby added to the family, being hired on to that dream job, finishing a huge project at home or your children making new friends and thriving at school. Or, gratefulness can be found in small events each week. Some of these might be an appreciation for a kind neighbor who dog sat for you, a daughter who cleaned her room without being asked or a close friend who called just at the right moment to share some good news. Being grateful begins with recognizing things that bring you joy and purposefully practicing gratitude. In this month’s feature article, 3 Good Things: How to Start a Family Gratitude Practice, the author suggests that families could become more appreciative, and therefore, have a happier outlook on life, by incorporating an exercise that shares what each member is thankful for. One idea is to start a gratitude jar, where everyone writes down something they are grateful for and puts it in the jar. This could be done throughout the year and read to the family during their end of year celebrations or in smaller time increments, like a weekly jar that is shared on Sunday during a family meal. Hopefully, in doing so, feeling gratitude will become natural during daily activities and transfer into a more positive outlook on life, a happier home and a desire to help others. This Thanksgiving, whether celebrating at home or while on vacation, take a moment to reflect on your family’s year and brainstorm all that you have to be thankful for. Here’s to a wonderful Thanksgiving, from our family to yours.
Auburn Opelika Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source
Auburn Opelika Parents Magazine is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant role in our community. Auburn Opelika Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Publisher Kendra Sumner Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Mark Gregston Christina Katz Sarah Lyons Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dave Ramsey Gerry Paige Smith Heidi VanderVelde, MD Cover Photography Lauren Beesley Photography www.lbeesleyphoto.com
President Jason Watson Director of Sales Justin Sumner (334) 209-0552 Ad Design Tim Welch
Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com
Kendra
kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com
Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
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Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 475 Bennington Ct, Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2019 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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CHRISTMAS IN CAMELOT Month of December • 4:30 - 10 p.m. Off of Rocky Brook Road DECORATIONS SWAP December 2 • 5 - 7 p.m. Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library OHS/OMS CHRISTMAS BAND CONCERT December 3 • 6:30 p.m. Opelika Center for Performing Arts SNO-PELIKA Official Kickoff and Tree Lighting Courthouse Square & Downtown December 4 • 5 - 8 p.m. Sponsored by East Alabama Medical Center opelikachamber.com OPELIKA CHRISTMAS PARADE December 7 • 10 a.m. Rain Date December 8 • 3 p.m. opelikachamber.com OHS/OMS CHRISTMAS CHORAL CONCERT December 12 • 6:30 p.m. Opelika Center for Performing Arts
CHRISTMAS IN A RAILROAD TOWN December 13 • 5 - 8 p.m. Sponsored by Kia of Auburn opelikamainstreet.org
VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH HORSE DRAWN CARRIAGE RIDES December 15 • 3:30 - 6:30 p.m. Provided by Friends of the Library
REINDEER EXPRESS December 13 - 15 5 -8 p.m. • Monkey Park $2 train rides Children 2nd grade and younger
FA-LA-LA FESTIVAL December 21 • 10 a.m. - Noon Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library
VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH DRIVING TOUR December 11 -15 • 5 - 10 p.m. opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH BIKE TOUR December 12 • 6 p.m. COLLINWOOD LUMINARIES December 13 • 5 - 9 p.m. 51st Anniversary Off of 10th Street
CHRISTMAS MOVIE MARATHON December 23 • 10 a.m. - Close Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library New movie starts every 2 hours
Your Christmas Destination Opelika, Alabama
VICTORIAN FRONT PORCH WALKING TOUR December 14 • 6 - 9:30 p.m. opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com
2019 • WWW.OPELIKACHRISTMAS.COM • #MYOPELIKACHRISTMAS 3
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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP
The Power of Yes At a checkup, your doctor will inevitably get out that magical little hammer with the rubber tip and knock it around a few times on your knee to check your reflexes. Hard as you may try – the power of the hammer is not to be messed with. It will win. Try as you might to keep your knee from moving – you will fail and your innate reflexes will be victorious every.single.time. As parents, we have similar reflexes. We can catch a toddler about to fall off of a chair, we can leap into the road and grab a hand faster than any avenger when our little one is in danger, we have supersonic hearing to assess the slightest cough or wheeze in the middle of the night when baby is sick. And these are all great; they help us keep our tiny little humans alive. But I would argue that there are some reflexes that are a bit more unhealthy – namely this: No. Mom can I….No! Dad can I just see…No! Can I…NO! Ahhh the power of no. We can shut down any request, quash any argument, and make our day a whole lot easier just by reflexively and continuously saying no.
Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
Much like you don’t have to tell your knee to kick the doctor, you don’t have to tell your brain to say no. It is a reflex. What? You want to get out the Halloween costumes and play dress up in April? No. You want to get out the cookie mix and bake at 8am on Saturday? No. You want to make a giant fort with all the blankets in the house after I just made all the beds? No. I am the first to raise my hand and say,” Yep, I was a “No-er”. With seven small boys in the house, I think no just seemed safer to me. And I’m not even sure it was a conscious choice. Over time it just became a habit, a reflex. And then there was that one pivotal day when one of them asked for something and I said no. Though I can’t even remember now what his request was, I can still remember the look on his little face. And that day changed everything. I began to intentionally assess my no, and I started practicing the art of listening and giving myself a few lengthy seconds before I respond. Interestingly, what I quickly found out was that so many of my no’s could easily
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be yes’s and a yes is a powerful thing in relationship. So although your no may make that moment in your day easier because you just don’t have to deal with the request, trust me on this – that little 6-year-old is very quickly going to be a 16-year-old. And when we lay a foundation of no, no, no – you are losing much needed currency for later on. Now that all seven boys are well into the teen and early adulthood years, my no is powerful. They all fully understand that when we sit down to discuss something and my answer is no – it is because there is some well thought out reasoning behind that. And that means something to them. Although we can’t (and shouldn’t) always say yes to our children, my encouragement to you is to practice the art of the pause. Think. Consider and then respond. Don’t let that little no reflex hammer get the better of you. Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.
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Harvest Discovery Experience
Veteran’s Appreciation Week at the Montgomery Zoo
Mark your calendar for November 9. Join AO Discover!, Auburn-Opelika Children's Hands-on Science Center and R&R Landscaping for the 2019 Harvest Discovery Experience, This event will feature food, drinks, nature explorations, photo opps, music, special guests and STEM, art and music activities for children. Tickets are $15 and children 12 and under get in free. Tickets will enter individuals to win one of 10 prize packages. Event will be at R& R Landscaping and Lawn Care in Auburn. For questions, contact Katie Murrah at ao.discoverscience@gmail.com. All proceeds will benefit AO Discover!
Join the Montgomery Zoo in thanking the proud men and women of the armed forces. During Veteran's Appreciation Week, all veterans, active duty military and their immediate family members receive a 50% discount on regular daytime admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Participants must provide a valid military identification to receive discount. Thank you for your service and dedication to this proud nation. November 10-16.
Downtown Opelika Holiday Open House
Blue Friday in Downtown Auburn
Start your Christmas shopping off on November 3 by visiting the charming shops and restaurants in Downtown Opelika. You will find many unique and special gifts enabling you to mark those hard people off your list! And, if you just can’t decide, then a gift card is always appreciated! Enjoy music, free gift wrapping, door prizes and more.
Tis’ the season to shop local! In Auburn, it is not Black Friday, but BLUE FRIDAY! On November 22, 8 AM -8 PM, our downtown merchants will be open on the busiest shopping day of the year to offer you doorbusters, specials and extended shopping hours. When you shop local, you are not only supporting our local business owners, but the community. Preview our Blue Friday ad by visiting www. downtownauburnonline.com.
Mainstreet Thanksgiving Market and Fall City Market
Welcome to the final farmer's market of the season, November 23. Enjoy Autumn's Bounty at Alexander City’s MainStreet Thanksgiving Market, at the Fountain on Broad Street. Get those lastminute fruits, vegetables, cheeses and plants before the holiday weekend. Call MainStreet for information and last minute updates at 256-329-9337. Auburn’s City Market will be held at Town Creek Park in Auburn October 26 from 8:00 AM - noon. The market will host local farmers, growers and artists to sell their produce and products. Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
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“The Color Purple”, The Musical
Presented by East Alabama Arts A struggling young woman in the American South finds her own inner-compass on a difficult but determined journey to love and triumph. Featuring a soul-raising, Grammy®winning score of jazz, gospel, ragtime, and blues. November 13. www.eastalabamaarts.org www.auburnopelikaparents.com
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Christmas Made in the South
Auburn Area Community Theatre presents “The Little Prince”
As Christmas time approaches what better way to get ready for the holiday season than to stroll the aisles for treasures at this year’s award-winning 29th annual Christmas Made in the South! This nationally acclaimed event is a fantastic way to ease into your holiday shopping and find that special holiday gift for that “hard to shop for” friend. Can a show be more than just a place to shop? Absolutely! Christmas Made in the South not only features hundreds of artists and craftsmen but it offers an experience for the entire family, a place to create traditions. Meet and speak with all of the talented artists and craftsmen, each with a unique story to tell. We love bringing arts and crafts to you! November 8-10. www.madeinthesouthshows.com/columbus
The Little Prince may have returned to his own tiny planet to tend his Rose and look after his sheep, but for a short enchanted time he returns to us and comes alive on stage. This imaginative, multi-media adaptation of the classic novel is truly a magical theatrical experience, taking audiences on a journey across space and time to follow the Little Prince and the stranded aviator who becomes his unlikely friend. This production is intended for all ages (but may be best enjoyed by children 10 and up). $12/Adults, $10/Students and Seniors. The Nov.7 performance will be a special “Pay What You Wish” ticket price. Shows will be November 7-10 and 14-17 at Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Tickets can be purchased at auburnact.org.
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Opelika Small Business Saturday
Get a head start on your Holiday shopping and decorating! Shop Downtown Opelika on November 30 and support small business this season!
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KidsHealthWatch
Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn
Lessen Stress During the Holidays For many families, the holidays can be a fun time but also a stressful time. There may be changes in schedules, time constraints, surprise visitors, and worries about finances. With as much joy as the holidays create, it is normal for both kids and parents alike to feel stressed and pulled in many directions. However, there are ways to maximize happiness and lessen worry, creating a memorable and enjoyable holiday season for everyone. The following tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics can help to keep stress to a minimum: • During the busy holiday time, try to keep household routines the same. Stick to your child’s usual sleep and mealtime schedules when you can, which may reduce stress and help your family enjoy the holidays. • Take care of yourself, both mentally and physically. Children and adolescents are affected by the emotional well-being of their parents and caregivers. Coping with stress successfully can help children learn how to handle stress better, too.
Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
• Make a plan to focus on one thing at a time. Try a few ideas to balance the hustle and bustle of things like shopping, cooking, and family get-togethers during the holidays: Stop and pay attention to what is happening at the moment, focus your attention on one thing about it, and notice how you are feeling at the time. Withhold immediate judgment, and instead be curious about the experience. • Give to others by making it an annual holiday tradition to share your time and talents with people who have less than you do. For example, if your child is old enough, encourage him or her to join you in volunteering to serve a holiday meal at your local shelter, or sing at a nursing home. Help your child write a letter to members of the armed forces stationed abroad. • Remember that many children and adults experience a sense of loss, sadness or isolation during the holidays. It is important to be sensitive to these feelings and ask for help for you, your children, family members or friends if needed.
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• Don’t feel pressured to over-spend on gifts. Consider making one or two gifts. Help your child make a gift for a parent, grandparent, or other important adults and friends. Chances are, those gifts will be the most treasured ones and will teach your child many important lessons. • Most important of all, enjoy the holidays for what they are -- time to enjoy with your family. So, be a family, do things together like walking outdoors or playing board games, and spend time visiting with relatives, neighbors and friends. As we embark on the holiday season, make a commitment to remember the things that matter most. It’s ok if things don’t look perfect or transpire perfectly in order for children to have a wonderful holiday season, and one they can remember forever. Dr. Heidi VanderVelde was in the first VCOM class that rotated through EAMC, and her pediatrics rotation was with Dr. Freeman, where she fell in love with pediatrics and the clinic. She has many interests in pediatrics, but is particularly passionate about narrative medicine and has presented on the stories of children with chronic medical conditions. She is a member of the AAP. Dr. VanderVelde is married to Dr. Grant Nelson. She loves to hike, especially in the Blue Ridge Mountains, loves to read and write, practice yoga, and play the violin. She also enjoys spending time with her three rescue dogs, Lady, Gent, and Jack.
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Kimberly Hines
Morris Avenue Intermediate, Opelika
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I am so humbled and appreciative to have been selected as the November Teacher of the Month. I graduated from Auburn University in 2016 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Elementary Education and recently received my Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Auburn as well. I am currently in my 4th year as a 3rd grade teacher at Morris Avenue Intermediate. As the daughter of two educators I saw at an early age how impactful teachers are in the lives of their students. The most rewarding and enjoyable aspect of teaching is seeing my students learn and grow throughout the year. I love those sudden “Aha” moments when the understanding clicks and their faces light up with smiles. My passion is that all students have the opportunity to prosper academically, emotionally and socially. I am so thankful that I am afforded the opportunity to teach at Morris Avenue. The school’s commitment and dedication to ensuring each one of its students reach their full potential exemplifies the role education plays in a child’s long-term success. I have made lifelong friends who share my enthusiasm for the profession, which makes the school day even more enjoyable. Having the opportunity to play a small role in the lives of my students provides an unlimited amount of gratification. I did not choose to become a teacher... it
Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
chose me. I look forward to continuing to give back to a profession that has given so much to me and my family.
Kimberly Hines
I am delighted that Ms. Kimberly Hines was selected as Teacher of the Month. Ms. Hines’ vision for her students is for them to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to be successful in a rapidly changing society. She implements effective instructional strategies to prepare her students for the future. She believes it’s imperative to attend job embedded professional development to skillfully meet the educational needs of all students. Ms. Hines emphasizes the importance of teaching academic standards to fidelity so students will gain the depth of knowledge essential for a complete understanding of the content. Ms. Hines is a dedicated educator always willing to utilize the best practices that will allow her students to think critically, to problem solve, and to make connections between ideas.
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Nino Mason, Principal Morris Avenue Intermediate
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Autauga County Schools
Mayor Greets Students at Wrights Mill Road Car Line
Mayor Ron Anders joined the morning car line at Wrights Mill Road to greet our students and families with a friendly smile. Mayor Anders even got to visit his childhood classroom while at WMR! Thank you for spending the morning with us Mayor Anders!
Trinity Fall Family Fun Fellowship
Meet the ASMS Research Fellows
12 Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) juniors are participating in the inaugural ASMS Research Fellows Project. Students will develop a plan of action to explore a problem in today’s communities which allows for scientific discovery. Students conduct scholarly research and complete a bibliography, literature review, conference paper, poster, presentation, and portfolio. Faculty members will serve as mentors who advise the students on their projects and guide their research. Student research areas include policy, climate, soil, genetics, and more!
Fall Family Fun Fellowship was amazing! We are so grateful for the Trinity family! @ Trinity Christian School
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Book Tasting at Wrights Mill Road
Resource Officer Speaks to Auburn Early Education Center Students
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School Resource Officer Brandon Elliott is a hero in blue in and out of the classroom! Recently he spent time visiting with Mrs. Booher and Mrs. Bradford’s students to talk about law enforcement in Auburn. ACS wants to thank all of our first responders for keeping our community safe!
Wrights Mill Road’s 3rd grade teachers served students a variety of genre cuisines at the “Book Tasting Café.” Students loved adding some “must reads” to their reading appetites!
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Opelika HS Theatre Society Performs “Annie”
The Opelika High School cast and crew of "Annie" had a blast performing six regular shows and two student shows this fall. Upcoming Opelika High Theatre Society performances include “The Apple Tree” October 29, “Black Comedy” in January, and “Little Shop of Horrors” in April. For more information, email ohts@opelikaschools.org
Ways to Promote Reading at Yarbrough
Take Your Parent to PE Week at Morris Avenue
Over 100 parents participated in Take Your Parent to PE Week at Morris Avenue Intermediate School in Opelika! This is a nationwide campaign that highlights the importance of physical learning in schools and helps keep parents involved in all aspects of their child's education. Parents had the opportunity to participate in activities such as active scavenger hunts, Workout Wednesdays with six workout stations, Fitness Trail activities, and Free Choice Friday.
Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
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Your eyes are not deceiving you, that IS a book vending machine, and students get credits to use the machine by exhibiting positive behavior, earning good grades, and striving for perfect attendance. This new attraction at Yarbrough Elementary encourages daily (and Knightly) reading, and was recently recognized by The Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools.
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National Walk and Bike to School Day at Richland Check out some of our little friends at Richland Elementary celebrating the day by walking to school! This annual exercise is a powerful catalyst for improving and spreading awareness of safety for people walking and bicycling throughout our community.
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Southview Students Perform "Moosical" for Parents
First grade students at Southview Primary School had loads of fun presenting their Barnyard "Moosical" for parents and friends!
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ASMS Student Named State Volunteer of the Year
Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) Senior, Zoe Blair, was selected as the State Volunteer of the Year by the Alabama Council of Hospital Auxiliaries. Zoe has been volunteering at Mobile Infirmary for 3 years and is president of their teen volunteers group. From her volunteer experience, Zoe now hopes to become a radiologist. She will be honored at a ceremony in Birmingham next month. 13
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Chambers Academy Students Hear Motivational Message
On October 9, Chambers Academy Assistant Headmaster, Jon Owens welcomed one of his former students from Benjamin Russell High School (class of ’96) to address the students at CA in a motivational assembly. Jim Hardy, a graduate of BRHS and an Auburn University alumnus shared an inspiring message with both CA’s high school students in grades 7-12 and then with the middle school students in grades 4-6. Hardy had a life changing hunting accident falling from a tree stand that left him paralyzed from the waist down during his senior year at Auburn University in 2000. He has seized his opportunity to bless others with an inspirational message that challenges students to focus on their attitude, effort and attention to details. Today, Hardy serves as the Director of the Outdoor Friends Forever Project in Alexander City. The mission is to provide outdoor opportunities in hunting and fishing for those individuals that have disabilities. He additionally serves as an assistant football coach at Benjamin Russell High School. His message was one that captivated the students at Chambers Academy with many of them inspired by his passion for helping others!
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Meterologist Visits West Forest Intermediate School
Students from West Forest Intermediate enjoyed learning about the weather from WTVM meteorologist Derek Kinkade.
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1204 OGLETREE VILLAGE LANE AUBURN, AL 36830 • (334) 887-0099
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Congratulations to the Liles Smiles no cavity winners! A`JAYVIEN THOMAS ABBIE RENFROE ABBIGAIL BAILEY ABBY LAWRENCE ABDULMAGID TRISH ABIEL LOYO ABIGAIL FORSTER ABIGAIL HAYWOOD ABIGAIL YOUNG ADALINE ENNIS ADALYN SANDERS ADALYNN HUGHES ADAM TRAYLOR JR ADDYSON JONES AIDEN BOONE ALEK TRILLET ALEXANDER BALL ALEXANDER TAIT ALEXANDRA PEVEHOUSE ALLAN MORALES-PEREZ ALLIE THOMPSON ALLISON LUMPKIN AMALIE ENNIS AMELIA GARNETT AMIR MITCHELL AMIR WORD AMY ARNOLD AMY SCHWARTZ AMZIE SPENCER ANA PAGAN ANASTASIA MEEKS ANDRES C TETZOYOTL ANDREW ZHANG ANDY ORTEGA ANNA ISRAEL ANNA MCCORMICK ANNE KATHERINE CORLEY AR`RAYAH BAILEY ARIA COLON ARIANNA SMITH ASHETON MCCOLLUM ASHLEY PEREZ LLERENA
ASHTON WRIGHT AUBREY PILGRIM AUBREY STEWART AUBRIANNA CAMPBELL AUDREY ERATH AURYEIN RICHARDSON AVA ADKINS AVA MONCRIEF AVERY CAUSEY AVERY HOWARD AVERY LAKEMAN AVERY SANDERS BAILEY BROWDER BAYLOR WILLIAMS BEAU LANDRY BECKWITH STEPHENS BEN ERATH BENJAMIN TEEL BENJAMIN CHAMBLISS BENTLEE WILLIAMS BENTLEIGH MARTIN BENTLEY STJOHN BENTLEY DARDEN BEYZA CIFTCI BLAKELEE MILLER BRADEN LEE BRADY JACKSON BRADY RILEY BRANTAJA STINSON BRANTLEY HESTER BRAYDEN SMITH BRAYLEN BROWN BRAYLEN SLAUGHTER BRAYLON HOWARD BRIAN GONZALEZ BRIANNA PERDUE BRISTOL HAYWOOD BRISTOL SENN BRITTANY STAPLER BRODIE HUGHES BRODY RILEY BRODY SMITH
BROOKLYN GLIMPS BROOKLYN OLIVER BRUNTAVION BROOKS BRYLER BUNDRUM BRYSON FULFORD CADEN BROWN CADENCE STAPLER CALEB CAUSLAND CALLI ANN STEPHENS CAMDYN O`NEAL CAMEIA ASKEW CAMILLE BROOKS CAMILLE BURNETTE CAMPBELL DECOUX CARLY WEDDINGTON CARMELO WASHINGTON CAROLINE BROOKS CAROLINE CHAPMAN CAROLINE NORTHCUTT CARSEN ETHEREDGE CARSON FOSTER CARSON WARD CARTER VANN CASEY KICHLER CASH BONNER CASON ANDREWS CAYDEN ROBINSON CAYLEB O`NEAL CE`DASHIA WOODYARD CHAEMIN SON CHANCE BRYANT CHARLES HENSLEIGH CHARLES KIRK CHARLES PEEPLES CHARLOTTE MCDANIEL CHARLOTTE WILLIS CHASE JACKSON CHLOE DUFFEE CHLOE KIM CHLOE MCCANTS CHRIS MORALES CHRISTOBAL M. SALINAS
CHRISTOPHER CUPIT CHRISTOPHER WARE CHRISTOPHER BAZZELL JR CLAIRE CASEY CLAIRE THOMAS CLARA GRACE CULBRETH CLAYTON FRIEND CLINTON WHITING COHEN LEWIS COLLIN ANDREWS COLLIN CAUSEY CONNELLY ETHEREDGE COOPER DECOUX COOPER GILMORE CORBIN RHODES CORBIN SMITH CORDARIUS HEARD CORDARRYL SHEALEY JR COREY MOORE COTTEN MALONE CRISBELL OSORIO CYNTHIA LUCAS D`VONTAE JOHNSON DAILEE FULFORD DAJAH GARY DAKIYAH BANKS DALEAH MURPH DALLAS COOPER DANNIELLE CHAMBLESS DARIUS COATES DARIUS DAVIS DARRAH MALLORY DAVID MAY DAYMARA GASCA DEAN CASEY DELANEY KEBE DERRELL SMITH DEVORA LOPEZ NIZ DIXON CRAFT DOMINIQUE HERRING DONNIEL WHITE DREAM BOWDEN
Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
DREDEN MURPH DYLEN CRISP EASON ANDREWS EDUARDO VAQUERO ELA PAGAN ELI CLACK ELIJAH SAVAGE ELIJAH SWINT ELIZA BAILEY ELIZABETH BROOKS ELIZABETH FORSTER ELIZABETH STRINGFELLOW ELLA SIGGERS ELLIANA SKEEN ELOISE HOVEN EMA PAGAN EMERI ROBERTS EMERSYN SULLIVAN EMILIA ALMONTE EMILIA MAY EMILY HAZEL WARD EMMA HARDISON EMORIE CONRADI ERICK ALCANTARA ERIN LASETER ETHAN CAUSLAND ETHAN ROBINSON ETHAN WEDDINGTON EUJENIO MONTEALVO EVAN KUNZER EVELYN PALMER EVELYN WALKER EZEKIEL PAGAN FAITH MCCURDY FORD ALSTON FRAN MARTINEZ FREDDY TORRES GABRIEL ROBINSON GABRIELLE WATSON GABRIELLEN BAILEY GAVIN CLEMENT GAVIN GARDNER
GIANNA AUTREY GONZALO CRUZ GRACE FOSTER GRACE PRATT GRACY LOPEZ NIZ GRAEME CHOROM GRAHAM KANE GRAHAM STEPHENS GRANT STOREY GRAY CARSON GRAY GARNER GRAYSON HUGHES GRAYSON PHILLIPS GREYSON FINLEY GREYSON MIMS GREYSON TOLAND HAILEY MURPHY HAILYN FULFORD HAISLEY BURNETTE HALEY DUFFEE HALLE KIRKLAND HANNAH ARNOLD HANNAH DUKE HARLEN DYE HARMONY GREEN HARPER COLEMAN HARPER HENDRIX HARPER KNIGHTON HARRY HAYES HAVEN COX HAYES CRAFT HEATHER WANG HEINRICH WEIKART HELEN NORTHCUTT HENRY MATHIS HOPE FOSTER HUDSON BELL HUNTER BEASLEY HUTTON JONES IDEN WHITE ISAAC STRAND ISABEL CRUZ ISABEL STANFORD ISABELLA PEELER ISAIAH TAYLOR IZABELLA ROBERTS JA`CYPRIS LANDERS JA`LAYA BUTLER JABARI DOVE-EL JABREON PORTER JACAIDEN RICKS JACK JOHNSON JACKSON CRUZ JACKSON KANE
JACKSON KUNZER JACKSON PROVO JACKSON TEEL JACKSON WEBSTER JACOBI WILKERSON JADEN HILL JAIDON CULLWELL JAILENE WILLARD JAKIRAH JONES JALEYAH JONES JAMAAR SPIRES JAMARCUS WATTS JAMARI ASKEW JAMAURI PAYNE JAMAURY PERDUE JAMES ADKINS JAMES SIGGERS JAMES WARD JAMES MORRIS JAMIE-LEE GAITHER JANAI GABRIEL JANIAH HARRIS JANIAH WHATLEY JARREL BOWEN JASALYN BUCKNER JASON HOWARD JAVIOUS MOORE JAVONTAE PERDUE JAXON ADAIR JAXON FINLEY JAXON HANCOCK JAXS PURSLEY JAYCE SHIM JAYCEE MORAN JAYCEON MALOY JAYDEN DRAKE JAYDEN TIRADO HUERTA JAYDON GRANT JAYLIN HARRIS JAYNIE DYE JEFFERY BAZZELL JEFFREY DUKE JEFFREY FORSTER JELAYSIA LEWIS JEREMIAH EASLEY JEREMIAH HARRIS JEREMIAH PETTUS JEREMIAH WIMBUSH JEREMY WHITING JIWON LEE JOELY WALKER JOHN DAVIS JOHN FORD JOHN ISRAEL
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JOHN SIMMONS JOHN YORDY III JOHN ELLIOTT WILLARD JONATHAN PARKER JONIYAH WHITE JORDAN GARRETT JORDAN PEAVEY JORDY GUERRERO JOSEPH COXWELL JOSEPH MAYES JOSHUA BLAKELY JOSHUA BULLINGTON JOSHUA THOMAS JOSIAH GABBERD JOSIAH WIMBUSH JUAN MOLINA JUDAH STRAND JUDSON ANDREWS JUDSON PHILLIPS JUHYUN SON JULIANNE BRITT JUSTIN BOWEN JUSTIN MEJIA JUSTIN ROGERS KA`MOREIA LOVE KACY HARPER KADEN GREENE KADYNCE TIDWELL KAELYN WEBSTER KAITLIN PHILLIPS KAITLYN DRAKE KALEAH WILLIAMS KALEIYAH GREER KALIYAH WILLIAMS KAMARI SCOTT KAMARION NORRIS KAMIRA JEFFERSON KAMORRIS DORSEY KARIS CHESNUTT KARMEN CAMPBELL KARSUN NELMS KASEN OLIVE KATE NORTHCUTT KATHERINE PEREZ HERNANDEZ KATY GOMEA-LOPEZ KAYDEN SCOTT KAYDIN ROGERS KAYLEE HOGAN KAYLEE HOLMES KAYLEN MCCOY KAYLIE CRISP KEARAH ROUNDTREE KEELAN BANKS
KEIRA TRILLET KENSLEE RUSSELL KENYAN VANN KENZLEIGH NELSON KEVIN HENNESSEY KEVYON GREER KEYSHAWN BULGER KIEFER ELLIOTT KIMBERLY LILES KIMORA SCOTT KINGSTON WILLIAMS KINSLEE PARKS KINSLEY MCCAIN KINSLEY MELENDEZ KIRBY WOODRUFF KNOX HEISLER KYLAN BANKS KYLEE GRAYS KYLEIGH WHITE KYSON MARSHALL LADRE B. EDWARDS LAKEN AQUILINO LANAVEIA RICKS LANDON SMITH LANE PRESCOTT LEAH HUGHLEY LEAH MORRIS LEANDRO MORALES LEO ANGULO LESLIE STRINGFELLOW LESLY PEREZ LEVI PADGETT LEVI STRAND LILEEONA BAILEY LILLY PEELER LILY MARLEY LILY SIMPSON LINDEN JORDAN LONDON BOYKINS LONDYN GARDNER LONDYN RUSSELL LONDYN THREATT LUCAS ALRIHANI LUCAS BALDWIN LUCY LILES LUKAS OLINGER LUKE BURNETT LYDEN SPENCER LYDIA BRANCH LYNDELL SIMPSON LYRI COOPER LYRIC PEAKS M`KENIZE FLOYD MACON G. HARDISON
MADELINE NGUYEN MADILYNN WILSON MADISON CHISLOM MADISON HANDLEY MAKENZIE WYNN MALEY ANDREWS MALLORY HANDLEY MARA ATTEBERRY MARGARET MADSEN MARIAH CARRUTHERS MARIGRACE HENSLEIGH MARK DANIELS MARKECIA JONES MARLEAH MATTHEWS MARQUIAZ HARRIS MARY CAUSEY MARY TORBERT MARY ADKINS MARY PRATT MARY AUSTIN MESSER MARY BRENTLEY MOORE MASEN SMITH MASON KEBE MATHAN ATTEBERRY MATTHEW MCGRAW MATTIE JOHNSON MAURICE SPIVEY MCKENZIE DRAPER MCKINNON MILNER MEKHI COPELAND MEREDITH BROOKS MICAH THOMAS MICAH TORBERT MICHAEL MATHIS MICHAEL ROBINSON MIGUEL P. HERNANDEZ MILES HOWARD MILEY HUA MILLER WALLER MILLIE MALONE MILNER GOMEZ-LOPEZ MILO MCDANIEL MINJUN HUR MIRACLE MCLENNON MOLLY BURNETT MOLLY NORTHCUTT MONTAVEUS BUCHANNON MORIAH MAY MY`KA DAWKINS NATALIE COX NATALYN LUMPKIN NATHAN MORGAN NATHAN WILLIAMS NAVAEH POPE
NEVAEH TUCKER NICOLE WIGGINS NIKOLAI NEALE NOAH FISK NOAH PEREZ NOAH STRAND NOAH THOMASTON NOAH TORBERT NORA LOWRY NORA MAY NORGAN GREER OAKLEIGH MYRICK OAKLEY BLAIR OLIVER GIBBS OLIVER MORALES OLIVIA BALLARD OLIVIA GARNETT OLIVIA JOHNSON OLIVIA MCDANIEL OLIVIA STACEY OLIVIA WILSON OLIVIA GRACE PROVO PABLO LEON PAISLEY CLARK PAISLEY HARRIS PAISLEY SWEARENGIN PARKER PALMER PARKER PHILIPS PARKER RISNER PARKER TOLBERT PENELOPE MCNEELY PEYTON ETHEREDGE PEYTON LAKEMAN PIPER ANDREWS PORTER KIRKLAND PRESLEY SIMPSON PRINCEA`NICHOWASHINGTON RACHEL SCHWARTZ RAEGAN WHITLOW RAIGAN WEBB RAYLEE ESTES RAYLEE MEACHAM REAGAN KANE REANNA WHITLOW REESE PRESCOTT REID CHOROM REID WARE RICHARD COBON RILEY HART ROBERT SPORT ROBERT TAHA RUBY ANDREWS RYAN CONTRERAS RYDER ANDREWS
RYELEIGH GANN RYKER VAUGHN RYLAN HAYNES RYLEE TYSON SABRINA ANDREWS SADI STJOHN SADIE LEDBETTER SADIE TRAYLOR SAMRIQUEZ HOYETT SAMUEL MAY SANIYA MCNABB SARA DENSON SARA WHATLEY SARAH HARVELL SARAH HEISLER SAVANNA HOLBROOKS SAWYER KIRK SERINITEE FOSTER SETH CRISP SHA`MIYA JACKSON SHAKIRA WARD SHANARIA BROOKS SINAI PEREZ SKYLIIAN WILLIAMS STELLA GRIDER STEPHANIE CABRERA STEPHANIE MILLAN STEPHEN MEJIA STEWART YARBROUGH SYDNEE CLEVELAND SYDNEY KNIGHT TAMIA DORN TAMIYA MCCRAY TANNER KIRBY TARAJI GILMORE TATYANA BOYKINS TAYLOR BALDWIN TAYLOR CUPP TAYLOR MANLEY TEHVIA CARTER THADEUS VIDAL THOMAS AUTREY THOMAS HARRIS THOMAS HENDRIX THOMAS INGRAM THOMAS YARBROUGH TIMOTHY BOONE TIMOTHY STRAIT TREMAURI BYNUM TRENT THOMPSON TREVION BROOKS TREVON CARR TRINITI COFIELD TRISTAN BANKS
TRUITT WYNNE TUCKER RENFROE TUCKER THOMPSON TURNER LILES TY`QUAVIOUS YOUNG TYLER MCKENZIE URIJAH LOOK VICTORIA MACKEY VIRGINIA LAWRENCE WALKER CARSON WALLY CRUZ WALTON WILLIAMS WARREN HEDDEN WATSON MESSER WESTON PRATT WHEELER BECK WILKES GARNER WILL WARE WILLIAM ARNOLD WILLIAM CAUSEY WILLIAM CLEVELAND JR WILLIAM CORMAN WILLIAM COXWELL WILLIAM DENSON WILLIAM HENDRIX WILLIAM HUGHES WILLIAM LILES WILLIAM MAYES WILLIAM SPORT WYATT HUGHES YAHIR PEREZ LLERENA YENI MORALES ZA`NIYA THOMAS ZAEYON FULTON ZAIDEN JONES ZARQUAVIOUS BARNETT ZINYIAH PEREZ ZION STEPHENS-SAMPSON ZOEY CHERRY ZOEY JENKINS ZURI MENNIFEE
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Learning to Save Lives at Pick Elementary
Deborah Stewart, the Lee County 4-H Foundation Agent, stopped by Pick Elementary to teach Mrs. Veleke’s fifth graders how to do the Heimlich Maneuver. 4-H recently secured grant money through MidSouth RC&D Council and Rep. Joe Lovvorn to fund bringing Heimlich Heroes into Auburn City Schools to educate our young people on what to do when someone is choking. Thank you to our special guests Bill Martin, with RC&D, Joe Lovvorn, Deborah Stewart, and Shaurice Carr for spending the morning with us.
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Respect Visitors to Trinity Christian School are impressed by the culture of mutual respect that permeates our school both in and out of the classroom.
A Classical and Christian Academy 745-2464
www.tcsopelika.org
Auburn HS Volleyball Team Raises Money for Humane Society
The Auburn High Volleyball team spent the morning opening car doors at elementary schools! Each year the Volleyball program chooses to support a local charity through T-shirt sales, restaurant nights, and donations. We believe that it is very important to foster philanthropic hearts within our students! This year they chose the Lee County Humane Society. All of the efforts culminated into a special match that was played September 19 at home with the fundraising theme of “Sets for Pets”! The humane society was on site during the match with animals for adoption.
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Autauga County Schools
Making Monsters at St. Michael Catholic Preschool
AU Baseball Player Visits Students at Drake Breakfast Club
Mrs. Crump’s pre-k 4 class are working hard during their art class making monsters. St. Michael Catholic Preschool and Kindergarten encourage creativity through many of the special classes such as art, music, and fitness.
Shout out to Auburn University Baseball Outfielder (and SEC Academic Honor Roll) Conor Davis for stopping by J.F. Drake to visit with students during Breakfast Club! Davis shared advice on staying humble, the importance of getting outside and always be learning from others.
Please send your school news to: kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.
Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
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Trinity Students Visit Auburn University’s Horticulture Lab
Lee-Scott Academy Holds Clubs and Organizations Interest Fair
Thank you to Mrs. Lloyd and Mrs. Smith for their work putting together a Clubs and Organizations interest fair for students in grades 7-12! Clubs and organizations for student involvement were on display during this two-day event so our students could sign-up, ask questions, and get more involved on campus as well as a table setup for community service requirements for students in grades 9-12.
AU Baseball Coach Speaks at WMR Dad’s League Breakfast
Wrights Mill Road welcomed AU Baseball Coach Butch Thompson to our Dad’s League breakfast. Our students and special guests enjoyed hot biscuits, fun fellowship, and an inspiring message about effort, attitude and giving back from Coach Thompson. War Eagle!
Third grade students at Trinity Christian School learned about germination, grafting, and other planting techniques at AU Horticulture Lab.
Opelika High School National Merit Semifinalist Opelika High School Senior Rebecca Wilson has been named a National Merit Semifinalist for her outstanding achievement on the PSAT exam. Wilson will now be considered to advance to the finalist level. Congratulations Rebecca!
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Autauga County Schools Motivational Pep Rally at Morris Avenue
Students and teachers at Morris Avenue Intermediate in Opelika welcome third graders and new students to their teams each year at an exciting Pep Rally with lots of music, motivation, and camaraderie. Teams meet throughout the year for group projects and to promote school spirit. Welcome to teams Motivation, Understanding, Spectacular, Trustworthy, Achieve, Noble, Generous, and Successful Go MUSTANGS!
Opelika City School Students Received CIA Award
Congratulations to the following Opelika City Schools students who were recognized by Judge Mike Fellows as recipients of the Character in Action Award on October 2. Pictured (l-r): Judge Mike Fellows, Savannah Woodley-Northside Intermediate School, Ella Kate Childs-Jeter Primary School, and Alanese TolbertSouthview Primary School.
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Going Green with ASMS Student May Jung
The State of Alabama is going to “turn green” with environmental sustainability because of Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) junior May Jung, who is originally from Prattville, Ala. Jung recently collaborated with the Alabama Environmental Council (AEC) to create the Alabama Environmental Youth Council (AEYC). Jung is the founder of the ASMS Greenpeace Club. Her leadership with this club inspired her to dream bigger than just her school campus. “My time at ASMS gave me the opportunity to discover my passion for environmental sustainability and put it into action,” Jung says. “Youth should be motivated to lead the way. I am thankful for the AEC and their partnership which has made my dream a reality.” The AEYC is a group of high school ambassadors who will promote environmental sustainability across the state through volunteerism and education.
SHE ONCE BUILT A FORT SO LARGE, THAT IT UTILIZED EVERY BLANKET, TOWEL, AND CHAIR IN THE WHOLE HOUSE.
AEEC Students Attend Auburn Reads Night
Auburn Early Education Center students enjoyed Auburn Reads Night with their families at the Village Mall!
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Passing the Torch to the Next Generation
The Liberty Learning Foundation made a stop in Auburn to share the pillars and foundations of what it takes to be outstanding citizens with Auburn city schools third graders! The Liberty’s Legacy Super Citizen program is designed to help elementary educators teach civics, character, financial literacy and the story of America.
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STEM Night at Creekside Elementary
Autauga County Schools
Trinity Christian School Honor Society
Congratulations to new Trinity Honor Society inductees! @ Trinity Christian School
A huge thank you to the AJHS and AHS Engineering Clubs for an amazing STEM Night at Creekside Elementary School.
Auburn City School Professional Development Auburn City Schools recently sent a crew of our folks to a 504 Conference with Julie Weatherly to enhance their knowledge of health care plans, service animals, and mental health issues as it pertains to our students!
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Fill the Mill at Wrights Mill
The EAGLES cannot say Thank You enough to our amazing students, parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, friends, neighbors, community sponsors, and PTO for an unbelievable Fill the Mill campaign at Wrights Mill Road! We enjoyed a fun family celebration with DJ Ozz, dunk tank teachers, silent auction, food trucks, Kona Ice and more!
Student Philanthropy at Auburn High School
The Auburn High Cheer Squad raised and delivered a $1,300 check to Wrights Mill Road Elementary’s Ms. Sidney Bugg to help her one-year-old niece that is currently fighting a battle with cancer.
2019 Opelika HS Homecoming Court
The 2019 Opelika High School Homecoming Court was recognized during half time of the OHS vs. Calera football game on Friday, October 11. Members of the homecoming court include (pictured l-r): McKay Yountz-Freshman, Ny'Azia Cox-Sophomore, La'Dajah Huguley-Junior, Mia Counts-Senior, Laila Heard-Senior, Claire Worth-Senior, Taylor Davis-Junior, Eliza DavisSophomore, and I'yonna Dowell-Freshman.
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Camp Read S’more at Lee-Scott Academy
Autauga County Schools ACS Educators
We had a great week celebrating “Camp Read S’more” in the library! First graders had two very special guests come hang out with them during their time at the LSA Campsite. We love the interaction between our upper and lower school students!
Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
Attend Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta
Auburn City Schools sent a group of educators to learn from the Ron Clark Academy in Atlanta! This academy was created to be a model school with goals of extending educator's reach beyond their student bodies and have an impact on students everywhere. Each year, thousands of educators-teachers, administrators, and superintendents-participate in the educator training programs to learn how to replicate RCA's style, philosophy and success in their own schools.
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Lee-Scott Academy Students Attend College Fair
ASMS Red Ribbon Leadership Recipient
Lee-Scott Academy eighth graders had a blast at the Southern Union State Community College Career Fair!
Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) student, Brianna Miles, was selected as the school's Red Ribbon Leadership Award Recipient. She was honored at a ceremony recently. Red Ribbon Week is celebrated across America to promote the importance of a healthy, drug-free lifestyle among youth. Outstanding students from Mobile and Baldwin County were selected as individuals who exemplify the 6 pillars of character.
March On!
The AHS Marching Band led the way for the Homecoming Parade!
Trinity Science Lesson
Trinity Christian School second graders study water surface tension in science!
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Autauga County Schools
Morris Avenue Helps to Keep Opelika Beautiful The Morris Avenue Ambassadors cataloged and organized various items that could be labeled as trash and performed a "Waste Audit" on the items. This activity was hosted by Tipi Miller and Keep Opelika Beautiful and was driven behind the recycling initiative that the ambassadors host weekly.
Talk Like a Pirate Day at Auburn City Schools
AHOY MATIES! September 19th is always a fun day for our young students in Auburn City Schools because it is International Talk Like a Pirate Day! Cary Woods Elementary School dressed up as pirates to celebrate the day! FUN FACT: The pirate word "Arrr!", which means "yes", first appeared in fiction as early as 1934 in the film Treasure Island.
STEM Night at AEEC
It was a STEMtastic night as we engaged in many outstanding Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math activities with AJHS and AHS students! We love ACS! We love AEEC!
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Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
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Chambers Academy Seniors Attend Historic Monument Unveiling Ceremony
Chambers Academy students in Mr. Tom Garrett’s senior U.S. Government class travelled to witness the unveiling presentation of the Vines Funeral Home and Ambulance Service historic monument ceremony. The program was hosted at the Vines Funeral Home in LaFayette. It recognized the accomplishments of Julius Summers Vines (1922-2012) who served as an ambulance driver in WWII as well as on the D-Day invasion at Omaha Beach and on the front lines at the Battle of the Bulge. Vines military career saw him receive numerous service medals prior to his lengthy career as a successful mortician in LaFayette. The program had addresses made at the presentation by multiple dignitaries including representatives of the Alabama Historical Commission. The monument presentation for Julius Vines included
recognition by the Alabama Historical Commission and the National Register of Historic Places by the United States Department of Interior. CA’s seniors enjoyed the program that was well attended by people across Chambers County. Pictured is the senior class of 2020 in attendance in front of LaFayette’s newest historic monument honoring Julius Vines.
Lee-Scott Academy Super Bowl Fun!
Congratulations to the 6th grade team - Elite Eight - for winning the 2nd annual LSA Super Bowl! What a fun morning for our lower school students to cheer on their favorite teams. Our students not only competed on the field, but also showed their school spirit as cheerleaders on the sidelines. The members of the beginning band provided music during the game. A HUGE thanks to Coach Ivatt and Coach Johnson for organizing this fun event for our PE students! Go Warriors!
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What Parents Need to Know About Social Media and Anxiety
it adds an extra layer to your parenting duties, it’s a good idea to get a good sense of your kid’s online life. Ask kids to give you a tour of their social media world. As they’re showing you around, you might hear some of the positive stuff you weren’t expecting, as well as some of the problem areas your kid could use help with. Also, add social media to the “wellness checks” that you already do. For example, when you ask how they slept and what they ate, ask how they’re feeling about social media. Is it mostly positive, helpful, and supportive, or do they want to step back but aren’t sure how? Here are some more tips for keeping social media a positive for kids:
From cyberbullying to FOMO to cruel comments, social media can be a land mine for kids. Issues we parents never had to worry about, such as an intimate photo texted to the entire school or Instagram videos of a birthday party we weren’t invited to, are now a risk for many tweens and teens. With kids’ digital well-being a concern, researchers are exploring potential links between social media and the rise in teen suicide rates, tech addiction, and loss of real-life social skills. And many parents are wondering: Is social media causing my kid to have anxiety? It’s an important question -- and one that makes for compelling headlines for worried parents. While it’s too early to say with certainty (this is, after all, the first generation of “digital natives”), the reality is somewhat nuanced. Some research has observed a relationship between social media use and anxiety in kids, but it’s difficult to know if and when social media is causing anxiety or whether kids who are anxious are turning to social media as a way to soothe themselves or seek support. How kids use social media matters, too: Social comparison and feedback-seeking behaviors have been associated with depressive symptoms, which often co-occur with anxiety. Of course, it’s common for kids to feel anxious sometimes. But there’s a big difference between occasional anxiety and an anxiety disorder that requires professional care. If your kid is overly self-conscious, has uncontrollable and unrealistic anxiety, is unable to make it go away, and avoids things, you may want to seek help. For these kids, social media may act as a trigger for -- though not the root cause of -- their anxious feelings. There are also kids, who, for a variety of reasons, may be more sensitive to the anxiety-producing effects of social media. For example, kids with social anxiety disorder may prefer online interactions over face-to-face interactions. Bottom line: You may not know the impact of social media on your kid until issues surface. Unfortunately, simply cutting off social media isn’t necessarily the answer. It’s such a huge part of many kids’ lives that not having access to social media could take a toll. In fact, being connected to friends through social media may counterbalance some of its negative effects. Without conclusive research to back up claims that social media causes anxiety -- and some evidence to show it’s beneficial -- it’s up to you to keep tabs on how your kid’s doing. Though Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
Encourage self-care. Seeing photos of a trip to the beach your friends didn’t invite you to can really sting. If your kid is super bummed or tired of digital drama, suggest they take a break from social media for a while. In fact, if they post a status update that they’re taking a break, their friends might be very accepting because they’ve had similar feelings. Help kids put social media in perspective. People post stuff that makes their lives look perfect -- not the homework struggles, or the fight they had with their dad, or the hours it took to look as good as possible for the camera. Remind kids that social media leaves the messy stuff out -- and that everyone has ups and downs. Encourage offline activities. In a world where kids could spend their days lying around looking at Instagram, it’s doubly important for them to feel as though they’re cultivating their inner lives. Prompt them to balance social media with soul-nourishing activities such as hobbies, exercise, reading, and helping others. Otherwise, what are they going to brag about on social media? Talk about their feelings. Ask them what it feels like to look at other kids’ feeds. Is there a tipping point from when they feel OK to when they start to feel bad about their own lives? Encourage them to stop before that feeling sets in and do something good for themselves instead. Let them know you’re there for them. You may not understand everything about your kid’s online social life. But recognizing it’s important to them makes your kid feel valued -- and more likely to come to you when they encounter problems. Get help. If you see any cause for concern, including mood swings that seem to result from social media, not taking pleasure in activities he or she used to enjoy, and having accompanying symptoms such as headaches and stomachaches, visit your kid’s pediatrician for a professional opinion. The Child Mind Institute contributed to this article. Learn more at childmind.org.
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technology to communicate can impair a child’s ability to read nonverbal cues. “We have to make a conscious effort to insist on face to face socializing because it would be so easy for kids to rely more and more on screen interactions,” says Dr. Michael Osit, a child psychologist and author of Generation Text: Raising Well-Adjusted Kids in the Age of Instant Everything. “As long as parents and educators continue to involve kids in face to face social groups, classroom interactions and family interactions, we can preserve their ability to function in social real time.”
In a world ever distracted by dinging devices, children who develop a wellrounded set of communication skills will stand out in the digital-focused crowd. “We have so many different ways to communicate that kids are going to need to be well-versed in as many as possible to be successful,” says Sarah L. Cook, co-author of The Parents’ Guide to Raising CEO Kids. Thanks to social media, today’s kids have the ability to access an extensive social network. But, missing from those online interactions are the subtle nonverbal cues that enrich our face to face interactions, like tone, voice inflection and facial expressions which can change the entire meaning of a statement. Some experts warn that too much reliance on Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
Talk to your kids. From the time your child can talk, ask open-ended questions and listen to their answers. “What was the best part of your day? Why?” Share your thoughts, too. Not only will this practice help their speech and listening abilities, they will learn the back and forth nuances of conversation. 28
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Model appropriate social interaction. Children learn how to interact with friends, family, store employees and strangers by following your lead. “Be careful about subtle messages such as how (you) incorporate texting, emailing and social networking in interpersonal relationships,” Osit advises. For example, put your phone aside when your child is talking to you and when interacting with a cashier or restaurant server. Make eye contact and show courtesy toward the other person to help your child learn that the person standing in front of them is the greater priority at the moment.
Pass the mic. Family meetings and meals are great ways to touch base with your busy family. Cook suggests putting each member of the family in charge of a different part of the meeting. For example, one child could begin the meeting by reciting an inspiring poem or scripture while another wraps the meeting with a joke, prayer or song. Use teachable moments. Discuss social interactions that you and your kids see on TV programs, online or in real life. For example, “When you are walking in the mall and you observe kids interacting inappropriately or disrespectfully to an adult,
point it out. Ask your child what he thinks about that behavior and help him evaluate it as appropriate or inappropriate,” Osit says.
allowance or gift money, have him conduct the transaction with the cashier. Be there to support him, but allow him to take the lead.
Listen. Encourage your kids to share their feelings about peers (including those they aren’t friends with), and adults, like teachers and coaches. “Parents can shape and enhance their child’s social skills on an on-going basis,” Osit says.
Use video technology. If you travel, call home using Skype or FaceTime, or use the apps to connect with relatives. Your kids will grow more comfortable talking on a camera. You can also use birthdays, the first day of school, the holidays or just random moments to interview your kids on your video camera.
Pick up the phone. Kids can learn to order a pizza or call the dentist to schedule an appointment for themselves. “I’ve encouraged my kids that if they want to have a playdate, they can call their friend’s parent, and I’ll be there to jump on the phone to back them up,” Cook says. “When they take on more roles that parents typically handle, that allows them to feel confident talking to adults, which is often scary for kids.”
Place an order. Before the server approaches at a restaurant, help your child narrow down what to order off of the menu. Even preschoolers can politely request a glass of milk or water.
Make a purchase at the store. Next time your child wants to spend some of his
Seek interactive activities. Scouting, theater and 4-H give children many opportunities to develop presentation and leadership skills. Also, encourage your child to participate in class plays, musicals and show and tell. Like anything, the more we practice our communication skills, the better they become and the less anxious we are about managing different situations. Empower your child with the skills to communicate in a variety of situations, and watch them rise to opportunities that come their way with poise and confidence. AOP Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two boys. She is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.
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A Page in a Book Counting Books: By the Numbers Teaching little ones the concept of numbers starts early as young children instinctively seek to quantify things in their orbit. They know if one of their two shoes is missing. They can distinguish the difference between their friend’s four cookies versus their own three (or five). And they definitely know the countdown toward their birthday, their own special numbered day. Part of a universal language that transcends barriers, children’s first words in a foriegn tongue are often numerical. Understanding numbers is just the beginning of a learning journey as it helps them grasp the concepts of time, order, quantity, patterns and more. As easy as 1-2-3, the following titles are fun reading romps that can help move little readers toward math literacy.
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The Pickwicks’ Picnic: A Counting Adventure
by Carol Brendler, Illustrated by Renee Kurilla (Clarion) It’s a perfect summer day to leave the city and head for the countryside for a picnic. Packing the car with everything they need for their retreat from the heat, the Pickwick family heads for the bridge that leads to their destination. As the road out of town begins to fill with like-minded travelers, the Pickwicks pass the time counting two scooters, three jeeps and so on. As the numbers of vehicles rise, so do the temperatures of drivers caught in the traffic jam. When gridlock threatens to shut down picnic plans, the Pickwicks and their fellow drivers count on an innovative solution to pass the time. With detailed illustrations that subtly inform the mood and motivations of all the travelers sharing the road, The Pickwicks’ Picnic is a delightful divergence from a by-the-numbers outing.
One is a Pinata: A Book of Numbers
by Roseanne Greenfield Thong, Illustrated by John Parra (Chronicle Books) A rich countdown of food, fun and fiesta inform this numerical celebration of Central American culture. Each two-page spread includes multiple examples of the quantity in question, introduced with rhyming text that reinforces the number. Moving the focus away from standard number translations, this title uses the count to introduce new Spanish words for the items being tallied. Because it’s not immediately obvious what the words reference, this title is a perfect introduction to using a ‘glossary’ as readers and their partners flip to the back of the book to discover new terms and their meanings along the way. Opening up a whole new window of words, One is a Piñata pulls back the curtain on a bigger world of things to count.
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One Dark Bird
by Liz Garton Scanlon, Illustrated by Frann Preston-Gannon (Beach Lane / Simon & Schuster) Things are looking up as little eyes turn toward the skies to take in numbers that can grow from one dark bird to ten, from ten to ten-thousand, and more. Beginning with a single glossy starling, the count starts as fellow birds join their companions for a dance at dusk. With only the first half of the book dedicated to one-through-ten counting, the remaining pages instead highlight the marvel of an ever expanding quantity in motion. Each edge-to-edge illustration moves the late-day sun closer to the horizon, while moving more starlings into the ‘murmuration’, a term describing the fluid, mesmerizing flocking patterns of birds. Just as starlings gather in numbers for their aerial acrobatics, so will young readers accumulate a broader understanding of both basic counting and beautiful bird behaviors.
Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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Strategy for Paying Off Debt Q. I’ve heard lots of different theories and
recommendations when it comes to paying off debt. Why do you advise paying off debts from smallest to largest?
A. A lot of people wonder the same thing when I bring up the debt snowball. Some think paying off the debt with highest interest rate first is the best approach. This may seem to make sense mathematically, but I realized a long time ago debt is not a mathematics problem—it’s a behavior problem. Personal finance is 80 percent behavior, and only 20 percent head knowledge. Besides, if all those people were so great at math, they wouldn’t be up to their eyeballs in debt in the first place! The reason the debt snowball pays off debt from smallest to largest is that modify-
ing your behavior and providing inspiration to get out of debt is more important than the math. Your probability of becoming wealthy is more closely connected to your behavior than your financial “sophistication” or academic pedigree. When you pay off a small debt you experience success, and that gives you hope. Then, you move on the next debt. When you pay that one off, and you’ve wiped out two debts, it really energizes you. At that point you start to get excited, and you begin to believe in yourself and in the fact you’re actually on the road to becoming debt-free!
It’s Not Easy Money Q. I’m 35, and I’ve always wanted to own
rental property. I think I’ve found a deal that
would work for me. I want to take $20,000 out of my thrift savings account to use as a down payment on the property. I could rent the place for $1,400 a month, and my loan payment would be $1,100 a month. What do you think about this idea?
A. I love real estate, so I understand the allure. But what you’re telling me is you want to cash out part of your retirement, get hit with a penalty and take on debt, to buy an investment property. I wouldn’t do it. I’ve got a feeling you’ve never been a landlord before. Bringing in $1,400 and paying out $1,100 may seem like a good place to be, but you haven’t figured all the risk into your equation. Rental properties just sit there empty sometimes. Other times you have renters who don’t pay, repairs, and people who just tear up things. In other words, you won’t be able to count on an easy $300 in your pocket every month. Like I said, I totally get your fascination with real estate. But my advice is to save up, and pay cash for one decent rental property to see if this game is really for you.
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sa wh lon “Who has three good things?” One of the kids jumps in. “Me! We got to go to the gym during indoor recess. Mom came into my class. Ice cream for dessert!” We ask this question almost every night at dinner. We could also phrase the question, “What are you grateful for?” Studies show that a gratitude practice can be life changing. Gratitude can lower blood pressure and anxiety, reduce aches and pains, and improve sleep. Feel like your kids get
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sick all the time? Gratitude has been shown to boost the immune system. People who practice gratitude tend to be more optimistic and experience more joy. And if you wish your kids would cooperate more, try a gratitude practice. People who are tuned in to gratitude tend to be more helpful and generous.
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Focusing on gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring sadness, anger, grief, or struggles. Kids need to know that it’s OK to express negative feelings and challenges too. But learning to feel grateful even when things aren’t going well is powerful. As Brené Brown says, “It’s not joy the makes us grateful, it’s gratitude that makes us joyful.” To take into account this fuller range of experiences, some families use the rosethorn-bud practice. In this case, you share a positive, a challenge or disappointment, and a hope for the next day. The point is to acknowledge that we all have hard moments and good ones. If you don’t already have a family gratitude practice, it’s easy to start. Ours began simply as a way to head off a pattern of complaints and grumbles (from kids and grown ups alike). Now it’s part of our routine.
Start Your Own Gratitude Practice To start your own family gratitude practice, simply ask everyone to say three good things from their day (or a rose, thorn, and bud). Take turns sharing and listening to each other. The good things can be anything—a favorite food for dinner or knowing there’s going to be dessert, a fun activity at school, seeing a friend, getting a compliment, finding something you lost, a relative coming home from the hospital... Everyone should participate. Some days will be harder than others. If you need to, help each other think through the day. Were you really excited on the way to school? Did somebody do something nice for you? Was it your day for art? How did soccer go? Some nights, the kids ask if they can say their three good things or argue over who gets to go first. Other nights, there is a long silence in response to the question. Even on nights when our kids are slow to share three good things, part way through somebody else’s turn, we’ll hear, “Oh, I have another one.” As you get used to sharing gratitude, you find more of it.
Here are 5 other ways to practice gratitude with your family. 1) Speak Your Gratitude. If sitting down together for dinner is a challenge, look for other points in the day to speak your 33
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gratitude. Try making gratitude part of your bedtime routine. Or make it a habit to say three good things in the car on the way home at the end of the day. Take the lead to get the habit started, but once you’ve done it for a while, you may find your kids asking if they can say their three good things without prompting.
2) Keep a Family Gratitude Journal. Have you ever kept a gratitude journal? What if you kept one as a family? Create a ritual around writing in the gratitude journal. Have kids write something when they first get home from school, or ask a child to jot down family ideas while you cook dinner. The key is to make it a regular habit. Daily is ideal, but if you can’t do that, create a pattern that does work. For example, start each family meeting with a gratitude list or do a gratitude check in every Sunday night.
3) Make a Gratitude Jar. Some families write down what they are grateful for on small slips of paper and tuck them into a jar. At the end of the year, they pull them out and read through them. It’s a reminder of the many good things that happen throughout the year, the many moments when they felt thankful. Plus you get to feel good when the thing happens, when you write it down, and again when you read through them. 4) Create a Gratitude Wall. Do you have a chalkboard wall or a white board in your house? Use it to write something you are grateful for every day. Encourage all your family members to do the same. Help younger children write or let them draw a picture. Take a moment to look at the board to remind yourself of your own gratitude or that of others.
5) Text Your Thanks. You can even text three good things or quick moments of gratitude throughout the day with older kids. This shouldn’t replace face-to-face communication, but texting is a great tool to share positive thoughts on hectic days or when communicating is hard. Developing a gratitude practice helps build resiliency and joy, which is great for our kids and for us. And in the moment, it just feels good to find something positive when you are having a grumpy, grumbly day. AOP Sara Barry is a writer from Massachusetts. She sporadically keeps a gratitude journal and regularly shares three good things with her kids.
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Auburn/Opelika The Art Studio ad on page 16
118 N. Ross Street, Auburn Drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture and more! Holiday events: Kids Night Out - November 8, 22 and December 6 School Day Out Camp - November 11 Saturday Art Club - November 9, December 7 Holiday Art Party - December 13 334-332-5275
www.theartstudioauburn.com
City of Opelika Christmas Parade ad on page 3
December 7, 10:00am Downtown Opelika, 1032 South Railroad Avenue Opelika, Al 36801 Don’t miss the 2019 Opelika Christmas Parade! Floats will be decorated with fun tributes to the Victorian days according to the holiday season and all of its magical wonders. If you would like to participate in the parade, please complete an application form. The form and guidelines can be found on the Chamber’s website. 334-745-4861 www.opelikachamber.com
Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour ad on page 3
December 11-15 Opelika Historic District, 8th & 9th Streets Opelika, Al 36801 The homes are decorated with life size Santa’s, angels, toys, carousel horses and Christmas themed figures. The Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour has been voted one of the southeast’s top rated tourism events and featured in Better Homes and Gardens and Southern Living. The event is a self directed driving tour. However, on Saturday night North 8th and 9th streets will be closed to traffic to encourage visitors, neighbors and friends to stroll through the neighborhood. This enables everyone to leisurely enjoy the homes up close, listen to the carolers, and talk with residents dressed in Victorian costumes. Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
This tour begins on North 8th street and 2nd Avenue and includes over ten city blocks. Admission to this spectacular production is free. On the Friday night of the tour the City of Opelika sponsors Christmas in a Railroad town which includes wagon rides through the Victorian Front Porch Christmas tour which includes tour guides who take you back in time while enjoying the festively decorated homes. Bike Tour: December 12, 6:00pm Walking Tour: Saturday December 8, 6:00-9:00pm. Tree lighting with Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller and his wife Laura at 6:00pm at the corner of North 8th Street and 2nd Avenue. (weather permitting).
www.opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com
Collingwood Christmas Luminaries ad on page 3
December 13, 5:00-9:00pm Collinwood Street Opelika, Al 36801 Take a drive through the Collinwood neighborhood to experience the pathway to Bethlehem. Featuring live actors and live animals, this tradition is fun for the whole family. With over 1,500 sacks with candles prepared by the Collinwood neighborhood residents, the candles are set out along the roadway through the neighborhood to “light the path” on the “journey to the manger.” Along the luminary path you will see shepherds, wise men, and angels following the star on their way to see the Christ Child. All are welcome.
site and bundles of sweet treats for sale. Local retail shops will be open late for all your Christmas needs. Santa and Mrs. Claus will also be available for family photos! Be transported back in time and take a wagon ride through the Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour. Leave straight from Christmas in a Railroad Town and be delivered back once you’re done. Enclosed trolley rides also available at the Museum of East Alabama.
334-745-0466 director@opelikamainstreet.org www.opelikamainstreet.org
Opelika Parks and Recreation ad on page 3
December 13-15; 5:00-8:00pm 1001 Andrews Road Opelika, Al 36801 Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express: Come take a train ride through the lights at Municipal Park! December 12-14, 5:00-8:00pm. Enjoy food, hot chocolate, face painting, entertainment, pictures with Santa and more! Ages 2nd grade and younger. Holiday Movie at the Plex: The Santa Claus: Don’t miss the Holiday Movie at the Plex featuring The Santa Claus on Saturday, December 8, from 6:00-8:00 p.m. This is a FREE event. Christmas Crafts: Make and take your own Christmas crafts. December 18, 2:00pm. Ages 6-10years, Fee $15. Christmas Wreaths: Decorate wreaths with all your favorite things and hang them on your door to display at Christmas. December 3, 3:30pm. Ages 5-12years. Fee $15. 334-705-5560 www.opelika.org
Annual Christmas in a Railroad Town
Variations Dance Studio Presents “Nutcracker”
December 13, 6:00-9:00pm Historic Downtown Opelika, 1032 South Railroad Avenue Opelika, Al 36801 Whether you’re a young child or simply a child at heart – there will be activities for everyone at this great night out in historic downtown Opelika. Join us for Christmas in a Railroad Town. Visit with friends and enjoy a variety of food vendors and restaurants. Bring the kids to write letters to Santa, enjoy pony rides, caroling, entertainment and other new activities! Guaranteed fun for adults includes Loft Tours, personalized gifts made on
December 14-15 Gogue Performing Arts Center Auburn, Al 36830 This holiday season, enjoy the magic and beauty of our premiere performances of “The Nutcracker Ballet”. Follow Clara into a dream-like world of dancing snowflakes and see all the colorful treats found in the Land of Sweets! Whether it is a first time experience or an annual holiday tradition, don’t miss your chance to reserve a seat at this beautiful holiday ballet. For tickets, www.goguecenter.auburn.edu
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Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 18
425 Perry Street Auburn , Al 36830 Annual Polar Express Holiday Celebration: All aboard the Polar Express! Children ages 12 and under are invited to hop aboard the Polar Express on Saturday, December 7 at Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Children under the age of 23 months are FREE with the purchase of an adult ticket. The “train” will depart at 8 a.m., 10:30a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Activities include arts & crafts, sweet treats, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and much more! Children are encouraged to wear their favorite holiday pajamas while they participate in indoor and outdoor activities. Tickets for the event will be on sale Wednesday, November 1, online. The cost per ticket is $15 for adults and children 24 months and older. 13th Annual Holiday Art Sale: December 14, 9:00am-4:00pm at Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Frank Brown Rec Center and Harris Center. The Holiday Art Sale is a great place to get a head start on your Christmas shopping while meeting local artists selling their own unique handmade work. Admission is FREE and open to the public! The event features local and regional artists selling handmade works, including pottery, paintings, personalized items, photography, handmade soap, jewelry, gourmet food items, scarves, hats, candles and more! A portion of the proceeds from sales support the Auburn Arts Association and their many art education programs. 31st Annual Daddy Daughter Date Night: Tickets go on sale December 2.Five dance nights will be held at the Clarion Inn & Suites on S. College Street. Daughters, dads, granddads, and uncles are invited to dance the night away and enjoy refresh-
ments, door prizes, dance contests, keepsake photos, and an evening of memories. Special guests will also be in attendance! 2019 event dates are as follows: February 6, 7, 8, 14 and 15. The Jingle Jog 5k and Santa Stroll Fun Run: Pull out those ugly sweaters again Auburn! Join Active Auburn on Saturday, December 7 at 7 a.m. as we ring in the holiday season in style! The Santa Stroll Fun Run will begin at 7 a.m. at Toomer’s Corner. The Jingle Jog 5k will begin at 7:30 a.m. at Toomer’s Corner. 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org
The Festive Five
November 18-22 Auburn Mall, 1627 Opelika Rd Auburn, Al 36830 The Mall is excited to present The Festive Five, a five night performance competition to kick off the holiday season. Learn more about this new community event below and register your performance today! Perform Live! Calling all choirs, musicians, dance groups and performers! Share holiday cheer by performing live in the Mall. thefestivefive@hullpg.com www.thefestivefive.com
23rd Annual Cookie Walk
12/1/2019, 8:00am-1:00pm Grace United Methodist Church, 915 E Glenn Avenue Auburn , Al 36830 Habitat for Humanity Annual Fundraiser is still a unique way to welcome in the Holiday Spirit of generosity and celebration. Folks from the Lee County community come out to buy fresh and delicious holiday-decorated cookies. The big event is sponsored by the Auburn We Help Coalition of 12 local churches. Our guests “Walk” the aisles lined with tables displayed with thousands of homebaked holiday Cookies and goodies while they
select their favorites. After generously filling their boxes, shoppers happily pay only $6 per pound. 334-329-4879 dlrwork@yahoo.com
Christmas In Camelot Lighted Tour
December 1-31, 4:30-10:00pm Camelot Way Opelika, Al 36801 The magic of Christmas comes alive throughout Camelot with the many large Christmas Cards, painted under art teacher, Roslyn Stern, by Opelika High art students. The neighborhood lights are adorned with lighted wreaths and all the houses are decorated with the wonders of Christmas. This drive-through event begins at sundown. www.aotourism.com/Event/12913/Christmas-inCamelot-Lighted-Tour/
Decoration Swap at Opelika Lewis Cooper Library
December 2, 5:00-7:00pm Opelika Lewis Cooper, Jr Memorial Library, 200 South 6th Street Opelika, Al 36801 Are you tired of your Christmas decorations? Want to try something new but don’t want to spend 12 bajillion dollars? This year try our decoration swap! 334-705-5380 www.opelika-al.gov/316/LewisCooper-Jr-Memorial-Library
Ho! Ho! Ho! Hike!
December 7, 10:00am-12:00pm Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, 2222 North College Street Auburn, Al 36082 On our annual HoHoHo Hike, we will venture out on a guided hike to try and find the elusive man in red. We’ll also explore all the other red things might we find in nature! Then, we’ll return to a warm campfire, hot chocolate, crafts, and more. 334-844-8091 www.wp.auburn.edu/preserve/
Auburn University S E R V I N Speech G L E E C O and UNTY AND T H E S U R R O U N D I NG AREA Hearing Clinic
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Auburn Christmas Parade
December 8, 2:00pm 122 West Magnolia Avenue Auburn, Al 36830 The entire community is invited to celebrate the season with the Auburn Chamber Christmas Parade in downtown Auburn. The parade will include Aubie, Santa, Christmas characters, live music and lots of other favorites! For float entry forms, contact Auburn Chamber. www.auburnchamber.com
The Hotel at Auburn University and Dixon Conference Center
241 South College Street Auburn , Al 36830 Gingerbread Village Unveiling- In partnership with Auburn University’s College of Architecture, Design and Construction Master of Integrated Design and Construction Program presents the 2019 Auburn Gingerbread Village. December 8. Thanksgiving Brunch and Dinner- Ariccia will feature four-course dinner in addition to the a la carte menu on Thanksgiving, November 28. Reservations are highly recommended and can be made over the phone. S‘mores and More- Tuesday, Thursdays and Saturdays in December. Gather around the fire pit on the A*T patio to sip on hot chocolate while building your own gourmet s ‘more with smorgasbord of toppings. $10 per person. Christmas Dinner- Let our culinary team do the cooking for you and enjoy a delicious four course holiday meal in Ariccia, on December 24 and 25. Reservations are recommended. New Year’s Eve Celebration- Ring in 2019 with a five course sharing menu in Ariccia, a champagne toast at midnight and live jazz band in Piccolo, December 31. Reservations are required. 334-821-8200 www.auhcc.com
East Alabama Arts presents The 10 Tenors- Home for the Holidays
December 10, 7:30pm Opelika Center for the Performing Arts 1700 Lafayette Parkway Opelika, Al 36801 Count on The Ten Tenors, sleigh-ride you through a musical winter wonderland that captures the heart of the holidays for the whole family. With festive favorites and modern holiday hits, you’ll want to bundle up and get to your seat on time for one of the Performance Series’ all-time audience favorites returning to the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. And bring a little snow with you, too! 334-749-8105 www.eastalabamaarts.org
East Alabama Community Ballet
December 13-15 Telfair Peet Theatre, 350 West Samford Avenue Auburn, Al 36849 The Nutcracker Ballet: There is no more festive way to start the holiday season than by experiencing this ballet classic. Follow Clara, as she visits the Land of Sweets and meets a prince, mouse king and queen and dances her way into your heart! Buy your tickets online. Clara’s Tea Party: You are invited to a Tea Party with Clara, December 14! Ideal for children ages 10 and under, Clara’s Tea Party gives children an opportunity to watch a shortened version of The Nutcracker Ballet, meet the dancers, and take memorable Christmas photos. lynnterraballet@gmail.com www.eacballet.com
“Back in Time” A Tradition Filled Historical Holiday Celebration
December 14, 5:00-8:00pm Pioneer Park, 6500 Stage Road Loachapoka, Al 36830 Traditional seasonal music will be provided as guests gather and prepare to enter the early Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
1800 to 1900s. Once escorted to their tables, costumed servers will provide a period appropriate multi-course meal within the historic buildings. Character actors and actresses will visit each table and provide up close and personal opportunities for guests to honor the people of Alabama. This educational entertainment will provide event participants a special glimpse “Back in Time.” Tickets are $50.00 each with all proceeds considered donations to The Lee County Historical Society. They can be purchased on the website or by calling. 334.887.3007 www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org
Santa On the Corner
December 14-15, 12:00-4:00/11:00am-3:00pm Toomer’s Corner, 100 North College Street Auburn, Al 36830 Santa Claus will be in downtown Auburn on select December weekends. Bring your family! Donations will be accepted to The United Way. www.downtownauburnonline.com
Fa La La Festival
December 21, 10:00am-12:00pm Opelika Lewis Cooper, Jr Memorial Library, 200 South 6th Street Opelika, Al 36801 Opelika students are invited to kick off their Christmas break with fun, games and learning during Lewis Cooper, Jr. Memorial Library. 334-705-5380 www.opelika-al.gov/316/LewisCooper-Jr-Memorial-Library
Annual Christmas Tree Recycling
December 28 1032 South Railroad Avenue Opelika, Al 36801 A project of Opelika Tree Commission and Keep Opelika Beautiful. This takes place the Saturday after Christmas at the Opelika Chamber from 8am-12pm. Citizens receive a tree seedling in exchange for the tree. 334-749-4970 www.keepopelikabeautiful.com
The Art Studio New Year’s Camp
January 2-3, 9am-12noon 118 N Ross Street, Suite 7 Auburn, Al 36830 Camp is for children age Kindergarten-5th grade. Campers will engage in art exploration. $30 + $5 materials fee per day. 334.332.5275 www.theartstudioauburn.com
The AO Christmas Market
TBA Bottling Plant Event Center, 614 N Railroad Avenue Opelika, Al 36801 The Christmas Market will host a series of special events, including VIP Preview, Girls’ Night, Santa’s Workshop, to benefit various causes in East Alabama. larkin@aochristmasmarket.com www.aochristmasmarket.com
Junior League of Lee County’s Annual Holiday Poinsettia Sale
Auburn , Al 36830 Poinsettias are available in two sizes and three colors (red, white, and marble.) Prices are $12.00 for 6.5-inch and $22.00 for 10-inch plants. Orders may be placed with any JLLC member or online at juniorleagueofleecounty.org. juniorleagueofleecounty@gmail.com
Phenix City/Columbus 27th Annual Fantasy in Lights
November 15-January 4 17800 Us Highway 27 Pine Mountain, Ga 31822 Callaway Gardens’ Fantasy In Lights, in Pine
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Mountain, Georgia, is not only the South’s most spectacular holiday light and sound show, it is one of the world’s “Top 10 Places to See Holiday Lights,” as named by National Geographic Traveler. Follow the links below for complete details on 2018 Fantasy In Lights.Specialty Nights: Saturday, Nov. 9- March of Dimes Night Walk Sunday, Nov. 10 - Bicycle Night; New this year are Bike Hour- December 30 Sunday, Dec. 31 - New Year’s Eve Party at Fantasy In Lights
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800-898-4868 www.callawaygardens.com
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The Illusionists- Magic of the Holidays
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November 17 RiverCenter for the Performing Arts Columbus, Ga 31901 Join us for a unique opportunity to take in a Broadway show before it goes to Broadway! Headed for the stage of Broadway’s Neil Simon Theatre for a record fifth holiday season, this mindblowing holiday spectacular showcases the jawdropping talents of the most incredible illusionists on earth. The Illusionists has shattered box office records across the globe and dazzled audiences of all ages with a powerful mix of the most outrageous and astonishing acts ever to be seen on stage. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions. 706-507-8367 www.rivercenter.org
Santa Claus 10K at Callaway Gardens
December 1 Callaway Gardens, 17800 US Hwy 27 Pine Mountain, Ga 31822 This run course travels through the Callaway Gardens lit “FANTASY IN LIGHTS” and includes marshmallow, chocolate, and candy cane miles. Stick around after the race for your picture with Santa!
tricolumbusga@gmail.com www.tricolumbusga.com
“Cinderella”
December 5-22 Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street Columbus, Ga 31901 Rodgers + Hammerstein’s CINDERELLA is the Tony Award®-winning musical from the creators of South Pacific and The Sound of Music that’s delighting audiences with its surprisingly contemporary take on the classic tale. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jawdropping transformations and all the moments you love—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists! Be transported back to your childhood as you rediscover some of Rodgers + Hammerstein’s most beloved songs, including “In My Own Little Corner,” “Impossible/It’s Possible” and “Ten Minutes Ago” in this hilarious and romantic experience for anyone who’s ever had a dream. 706-327-3688 www.springeroperahouse.org
Bi-City Christmas Parade
December 7, 9:00am Broad St and Broadway Columbus, Ga 31901 The Bi-City Christmas Parade will begin on Colin Powell Parkway, go down Broad Street in Phenix City and end on Broadway in Columbus. The parade will consist of holiday themed floats, horses, motorcycles, clowns, marching units and much more!. 334-448-2701 www.phenixcityal.us
Port Columbus’ Christmas
December 7-8 National Civil War Naval Museum, 1002 Victory Drive Columbus, Ga 31901 Santa Claus is coming back to town, and he’s
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setting up shop at the National Civil War Naval Museum! Families can enjoy special programming. The weekend will feature a host of community entertainment, museum tours, shopping in the Museum store, and refreshments. As always, Santa will be available during this event to visit with children and pose for photos. This event is FREE and open to the public, as a token of appreciation from the museum to the amazing supporters in Columbus, Georgia and surrounding areas. 706-327-9798 www.portcolumbus.org
28th Annual Christmas Made in the South
November 8-10 Columbus Convention & Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue Columbus, Ga 31901 The show is unique, featuring hundreds of artists & master craftsmen. Everyone attending the show will have the opportunity to meet & talk with talented craftsmen & artists. The show goers enjoy interacting with the craftsmen, learning their techniques and the inspiration behind their work. Picking out decorative objects and designs that add unique interest to the home is a common practice at Christmas Made in the South® as well as gift buying for that hard to shop for friend or family member. 704-847-9480 www.madeinthesouthshows.com
favorites Jim Pharr and Ben Redding will play all 24 citizens of Tuna, the tiny Texas town that erupts in holiday mayhem every year with a disastrous production of “A Christmas Carol,” yard displays vandalized by the Christmas Phantom and a Humane Society overrun with iguanas, coyotes, sheep and myna birds. 60,000 patrons have made this a genuine Christmas tradition in Columbus. 706-327-3688 www.springeroperahouse.org
Cantus Columbus Christmas: Music of the Masters
December 17 RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway Columbus, Ga 31901 Year after year this holiday concert has filled Legacy Hall with enthusiastic listeners. The performance of this year’s concert will bring this Christmas series to a close. Directed by William J. Bullock, the concert recounts the Christmas story with classical masterpieces and audience carols. A string orchestra, tenor Steven Tharp and organist Jeff McLelland join the chorus and pianist Janie Lee Bullock to present a diverse selection of brief musical works in four program sections: Prophecy, Birth, Epiphany and Aspiration. The works include masterpieces by Mozart, Handel, Brahms, and others; carol arrangements from eight countries; and expressive twentieth-century miniatures. 706-256-3620 www.rivercenter.org
“A Tuna Christmas: The Next Generation”
December 13-15, 19-22 Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street Columbus, Ga 31901 Putting the fun in DisFUNction, a brilliant new cast of master comedians continues the legacy of Columbus’ legendary Holiday cult favorite. Springer
Columbus Ballet presents “The Nutcracker”
TBA RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway Columbus, Ga 31901 Join us for The Columbus Ballet’s annual performance of The Nutcracker at the River Center for
the Performing Arts. Featuring a full orchestra playing Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. 706-507-8367 www.thecolumbusballet.net
The Ludy’s Christmas Light Spectacular Thanksgiving through New Year’s Eve 5784 Ironstone Drive Columbus, Ga 31907 Drive into a light display set to music like none other...over 155,000 lights! Featured on ABC’s “The Great Christmas Light Fight”. 706-443-6975 www.lundychristmas.com
Alex City/Lake Martin Christmas at Crossroads
November 22 Russell Farms Road Alexander City, Al 35010 Christmas at Crossroads is a great way to spend the day after Thanksgiving with your family at Russell Crossroads. The Holiday Bazaar is moving from The Stables this year to make it easier for all to see Santa and do some Christmas shopping too! The Holiday Bazaar will run from 9 until 4 and will be under the big tent on the Town Green! Santa will arrive at 11 by horse-drawn wagon and the Jolly Ol Elf will spend time with the kids until 2. There will be games and crafts for the kids and lots of other fun stuff too. Come be a part and grab the Christmas Spirit! There is no charge, except what you choose to spend at the Bazaar! 256-496-4232 www.russelllandsonlakemartin,com
An Eclectic Christmas
December 1-8 Falk Farm, 1733 Claude Road Eclectic, Al 36024 It was the night that saved the world. The star shone so bright in the night sky. There was not
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room in the inn. Forced out into the cold night air surrounded with animals, Christmas was born in a stable. Come join us in December to experience the true story of the first Christmas. In the atmosphere of an outdoor walking trail, you and your guests will be part of live drama that is set during the Roman Empire. As decreed by Caesar, everyone must be counted in the census. As you make your way to Bethlehem, you will visit the field where shepherds received the angel’s message and news of the Messiah. Then visit the wise men as they journey in search of the New Born King. You too shall be counted. Reservations highly recommended. 334-578-4846 www.aneclecticministry.org
Annual Hometown Christmas Parade
December 2, 6:00pm Comer Street Alexander City, Al 35010 Join us as we light up the night, when Alexander City’s Annual Hometown Christmas Parade winds its way through the streets of Alexander City the first Monday of each December. Spectators are invited to line the parade route to watch bands and dancers perform, see the festively decorated floats, and wait for the much anticipated arrival of Jolly Old St. Nick himself. www.alexandercity.org
Valley/LaGrange Follow the Sheppard Christmas Walks & Under the Bethlehem Star Light Show Weekends December 1-23 Explorations in Antiquity Center, 130 Gordon Commercial Drive LaGrange, Al 30240 Follow the journey of Joseph and Mary as they travel from Nazareth to Bethlehem and learn new insights into the Christmas story. These walks can be done in conjunction with the Christmas multi-media presentation in the evening. Reservations required. 706-885-0363 www.biblicalhistorycenter.com
Christmas Holidays at Hills & Dales Estate
December 1916 Hills and Dales Drive LaGrange, Ga 30240 Experience our circa 1940’s, tinsel-laden Christmas tree, brilliant Poinsettias and other seasonal decorations during the holiday season. The Fuller E. Callaway family home and the visitor center will be decorated for the holidays this December, Tuesdays to Saturdays. Regular tour prices apply. Also offering wreath workshops, family tabletop luminaries workshop, mixed green Christmas wreath workshops and Children’s Christmas Celebration. 706-882-3242 www.hillsanddales.org
LaGrange Christmas Parade
December 5, 5:30pm 111 Bull Street LaGrange, Al 30241 The floats begin at 6:00pm. Start the holiday season off right with this spirited Troup County tradition. Each year hundreds of businesses, community groups, schools and churches create floats for the annual parade that makes its way through downtown city streets. Marching bands, live animals, clowns and a variety of novelty entries complete the festive environment. And, much to the delight of both the young and young at heart, Santa always manages to make a special guest appearance on the top of a fire truck. 706-844-8671 www.lagrangechamber.com
Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
LaGrange Symphony Orchestra Concert “Sounds of Peace”
December 10, 7:30-9:00pm 301 Church Street LaGrange, Al 30240 We offer to you the gift of a variety of delightful seasonal classics and a traditional carol sing-along. Our festive journey ends with Beethoven’s Choral Fantasy in a thrilling collaboration with the Choral Society of West Georgia and LaGrange College’s collaborative pianist Andrew Harry 706-882-0662 www.lagrangesymphony.org
“Closed for the Holidays”
December 12-14 New Horizon Community Theatre, 411 West 8th Street West Point, Ga 31833 After a blizzard shuts down the roads on Christmas Eve eve, a motley crew of travelers find themselves stranded at the local community center. From the lovelorn drama teacher with a bus full of students, to the quarrelsome couple on the way to their wedding, to the overeager Sheriff ready for some real criminal action, everyone has their own troubles to untangle. But to have a happy holiday, they’re going to need a miracle--or seven, to be exact. Closed for the Holidays is a spirited and heartwarming comedy with a healthy dash of Christmas magic. 706-643-7529 www.nhct.org
Christmas Village at the Historic Langdale Mill
Weekends in December US Hwy 29 at Fob James Road Valley, Al Beginning the first weekend in December, experience the spirit of the season in Historic Valley. There is a life-size nativity scene in the meadow, the Madonna light-sculpture, and the Christmas Merry-go-Round that has given over 1,000,000 FREE rides to families. As you take a walk through history, you will be greeted with caroling and much more festive fun. Also, don’t miss the “A Cotton Mill Christmas” production at Langdale Theatre, as the local actors tell the history and stories of Valley, Al. 334-756-5290
www.cityofvalley.com
Montgomery 28th Annual Christmas Light Festival at the Montgomery Zoo ad on page 22
December 5-8, 12-25 The Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway Montgomery, Al 36110 See the Montgomery Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland sparkling with thousands of lights and festive decorations. Take a leisurely stroll, a brisk train ride or see the lights from atop the Zoofari Skylift Ride. Visit Santa, enjoy the live nightly entertainment and no winter’s night would be complete without some warming hot chocolate and fresh baked cookies. 334-625-4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com
Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents “All is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914”
November 15-December 30 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, Al 36117 A remarkable true story from the Western Front, Christmas, 1914. In a silence amid the combat, a soldier steps into No Man’s Land singing “Silent
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Night.” All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 relives an astounding moment in history when Allied troops and German soldiers laid down their arms to celebrate the holiday together, sharing food and drink, playing soccer, and singing carols. This dramatic retelling weaves together firsthand accounts of 30 World War I soldiers with patriotic tunes, trench songs, and Christmas carols. 800-841-4273 www.asf.net
Old Alabama Town Holiday Open House
1st Week of December 301 Columbus Street Montgomery, Al 36104 Our annual Holiday Open House, often the first week of December. We open up the Living Block and Ordeman House, and feature live holiday music, storytelling, costumed villagers, cookies and hot cider, pioneer tree ornaments for kids, and even photos with Father Christmas. Free to the public. 1-888-240-1850 www.landmarksfoundation.com
Governor’s Mansion Candlelight Open House and Tour
December 2, 9 and 16 1142 South Perry Street Montgomery, Al 36104 Each Monday before Christmas, the Candlelight Tour serves as an opportunity for the public to view the Governor’s Mansion holiday decor, enjoy live choir performances and sample Alabamamade goods at the gift shop. During the tours, rooms open to the public, which include the main entrance, dining room, sitting room, sun room and more, feature holiday decor by volunteer designers from around the state. While each room displays a different decorating style, all showcase a classic and charming Christmas look. In addition, the Farley-Hill House, which is located next door to the mansion and typically used as a meeting space, is also decorated and open for public viewing during the tour. Guests are also able to listen to live music performed by different children’s choirs each night on the staircase of the mansion. 334-834-3022
14th Annual Interfaith Christmas Nativity Exhibit
December 4-8 3460 Carter Hill Road Montgomery, Al 36111 Help your family keep the true meaning of Christmas in their hearts from the start by attending this Community Celebration of the Birth of Jesus Christ. This spectacular event features nativities from around the world and special music by local performers. This display is sure to warm the hearts of the young and old alike. www.montgomerynativity.com
Messiah Sing-a-long with the Montgomery Chorale
December 5, 7:00-9:00pm Episcopal Church of the Ascension 315 Clanton Avenue Montgomery, Al 36104 Join the Montgomery Chorale in this community sing-a-long of Handel’s Messiah. This free community event. 334-265-3737 www.montgomerychorale.org
Holidays on the Harriott
December 6-7, 13-14 and 20-21 Downtown Riverfront, 213 Commerce Street Montgomery, Al 36104 Full Holiday Meal, Live Entertainment and Cash Bar on the Riverboat. www.funinmontgomery.com
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Alabama Shakespeare Festival presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever”
December 7-29 1 Festival Drive Montgomery, Al 36117 What happens when the rowdiest kids in town find out there are free snacks at Sunday school? They decide to audition for the annual Christmas pageant! The Herdman kids take over the church’s holiday production and insist on playing all the good parts. They’ve never heard the nativity story, and have no idea who Mary, Joseph, or the wise men are. It’s disgraceful! Silent night? Not a chance, but sometimes a little joyful noise is just what Christmastime needs 800-841-4273 www.asf.net
Montgomery Ballet presents the 44th Annual Performance of “Nutcracker”
December 13-15 Davis Theatre, 251 Montgomery Street Montgomery, Al 36104 Join the Montgomery Ballet as it presents their annual performance of The Nutcracker. The Nutcracker Ballet is based on the story “The Nutcracker and the King of Mice” written by E.T.A. Hoffman. Although what is seen on the stage today is different in detail from the original story, the basic plot remains the same..the story of a young German girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince and a fierce battle against a Mouse King with seven heads. www.montgomeryballet.org
Millbrook/Wetumpka Christmas On the Coosa ad on page 29
December 14, 10am-6pm Gold Star Park, Ready St Wetumpka, Al 36092 Wetumpka’s Christmas on the Coosa continues to bring people from all over the state to enjoy Wetumpka’s family atmosphere and unique heritage. Called the “City of Natural Beauty” Wetumpka is a quaint, historic town nestled along the banks of the Coosa River and is home to the annual Christmas on the Coosa celebration. The event features activities and events for the whole family. The day-long Christmas on the Coosa celebration features a car show, children’s character breakfast, entertainment for children and a show case for local talent. The annual street parade features over 100 entries and passes along the area for arts & crafts vendors. The evening continues with a ski-in by Santa and the ends with a grand fireworks finale.
Allen Orthodontics is pleased to be moving to Moores Mill in Spring 2019. is move will improve our patient experience by accommodating our expanding orthodontic services and technology, greatly increasing space for treatment and allowing easy parking and access to our office for all of our patients. Allen Orthodontics is thrilled to be joining a great mix of signature businesses that will be steps away from our new location.
334-567-5147 www.cityofwetumpka.com
Christmas at Alabama Nature Center
December 8 3050 Lanark Road Millbrook, Al 36054 Join us for our 11th annual Christmas at the Alabama Nature Center. Enjoy hayrides, Christmas crafts, decorating cookies, a movie special and much more! Learn how to create your own nature ornament, get pictures with Santa, enjoy our Christmas movie special, and make sure to go on the hay ride! Christmas is always fun here at the ANC, we will have hot chocolate for sale and plenty of activities to keep you warm. This Christmas is sure to be filled with holiday fun at the NaturePlex! Bring your camera and take a picture with jolly Ol’ Saint Nick! 800-822-9453 www.alabamawildlife.org
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Birmingham and North Birmingham Ballet presents ‘The Mutt-cracker’
November 29 BJCC, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd N Birmingham, Al 35203 The Mutt-cracker, a new twist a “classic tail”, is essentially Birmingham Ballet’s The Nutcracker with the addition of dogs performing along side the dancers. The holiday favorite is brought to life with masterful story-telling and exciting dancing by professionals as well as local talented aspiring youth. Exciting dancing, beautiful costumes, magical surprises, and of course... the DOGS, make this production delightfully fun! 205-979-9492 www.birminghamballet.com
Christmas at the Cave
December 13-14 and 20-21 5181 DeSoto Caverns Parkway Childersburg, Al 35044 Come walk in a Winter “Underland” for a familyfun event for all ages. Will holiday treats, classic Christmas movies, caroler and sing-a-longs, as well as a special visit from St. Nicholas himself, Christmas at the Cave at the majestic DeSoto Caverns is the best way for your family spend the most wonderful time of the year. 256-378-7252 www.desotocavernspark.com
Sounds of the Season
December 15, 2:30pm Brock Recital Hall, Samford University Birmingham, Al 35222 Kick off the holidays with Sounds of the Season, a concert of favorites both sacred and secular. Featuring surprise guest artists and familiar faces, the concert will feature a variety of solo and ensemble performances to set the perfect mood for the holiday season. 205-322-6737 www.operabirmingham.org
Calera The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum’s North Pole Express
November 15-17, 22-24, December 1, 6-8, 13-14. 1919 9th Street Calera, Al 35040 “All Aboard” says the conductor, and your family’s journey begins to the North Pole! Through the dark night, the magical train makes its way to the top of the world! Upon arrival at the brilliantly decorated North Pole, Santa, Mrs. Claus, and the elves board the train to visit with your family and give each child a keepsake! Be sure to bring your camera to get a photo of your family with Santa and Mrs. Claus! You’ll enjoy chocolate milk and cookies, sing Christmas songs, and listen to a special Christmas Story! The North Pole Express will make lasting Christmas memories for you and your family! For even more fun, be sure to wear your pajamas! 205-668-3435
www.hodrrm.org
Santa Claus Special at The Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum
November 30, December 7, 14. 1919 9th Street Calera, Al 35040 Take a train ride filled with Christmas Cheer as you ride the Santa Special! Board our vintage train decorated for the season and take a train ride where Santa will visit with all the boys and girls! Talk with Santa and tell him what you would like for Christmas! Santa will have a treat for every boy and girl! Make sure to bring your camera Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
to get a photo of all the sights and make a picture of your family with Santa! The Santa Special train ride lasts approximately 1 hour. Please arrive 1 hour prior to your departure time to pick up your tickets 205-668-3435 www.hodrrm.org
Atlanta Area Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park November 16-February 23 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, Ga Snow tubing in GA? Yep, we have it! Snow Mountain at Stone Mountain Park is a winter wonderland of fun. With a 400-foot tubing hill and 2 moving sidewalks to take you back to the top, your Snow session will be packed with fun. Snow Mountain offers single tubes, double tubes, and family-sized tubes that can accommodate up to 8 guests at a time. New!!!! Galactic Snow Tubing! Experience LED Lights, Lasers, Music and more on all sessions starting 6pm and later. 800-401-2407 www.stonemountainpark.com
Stone Mountain Christmas
November 16-January 5 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, Ga Have a Holly Jolly Christmas at Stone Mountain Park, where the true magic of the season is in the air. Enjoy the glow of more than two million lights, festive music and visits from some your favorite holiday characters. Start a new tradition and create memories that will last a lifetime for your kids...and you. Rudolph The Red-NosedReindeer 4-D! Skylights Spectacular: A Musical Walk-through Experience. Clarice the Reindeer joins Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer® and Bumble™ the Abominable Snow Monster at Rudolph’s Merry Little Meet and Greet. Kids of all ages can meet these heartwarming characters or catch them in the nightly Christmas parade! Enjoy live performances that are sure to get you in the Christmas spirit. All aboard the Sing-along Train to hear your favorite Christmas tunes as well as the heartwarming story of the first Christmas in The Gift. Wander through the Wonderland Walkway, a dazzling tunnel of lights guiding you to the Snow Angel® Palace, where YOU are a part of the experience as we tell the story of Angelina the Snow Angel in A Wish For Snow. 800-401-2407 www.stonemountainpark.com
License to Chill Islands & Magical Night of Lights
November 22-January 5 Lake Lanier Islands, 7000 Lanier Islands Parkway Buford, Ga 30518 License to Chill Snow Island: Be transported to a wintery vacation state of mind on the fastest snow tubing hill in North America. Magical Nights of Lights: As you drive through our holiday inspired front gate, you crossover the magnificent snowflake bridge, through the 12 Days of Christmas, pass the illuminated diamond wonder light, under the blanket-lit bridge, all through the dancing Holiday House, Santa’s Workshop, Winter Carnival and more! Your magical night does not stop with the lights. Santa’s Village is a must for guests of all ages. Roast marshmallows on the bonfire, treat your tastes buds to delicious holiday treats, do some holiday shopping at Bucky’s Gift Shop or the many concessions that abound. Children of all ages will enjoy the many rides in our Winter Carnival. You will find Santa taking pictures and discussing holiday wish lists with children at Santa’s Workshop. 770-945-8787
www.lanierislands.com
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Atlanta Children’s Christmas Parade
December 7, 10:30am Peachtree and 16th Street Atlanta, Ga 30308 With floats, giant helium-filled balloons and marching bands, the Children’s Christmas Parade will be the largest holiday parade in the southeast. Thousands of spectators will be lined up along the streets eagerly awaiting the arrival of Santa and the official beginning of the holiday season in Atlanta. www.choa.org
South Alabama and Gulf Coast Magic Christmas in Lights
November 29-December 31 Bellingrath Gardens, 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road Theodore, Al 36582 In this Gulf Coast holiday tradition, guests stroll through a dazzling light display that features more than 1,100 set pieces, 3 million lights and 15 scenes throughout the 65-acre Garden estate. In addition, the Bellingrath Home is decorated in its holiday finery and enhanced with beautiful poinsettias. Magic Christmas in Lights includes nightly choral performances on the South Terrace of the Home on Sundays through Thursdays. In addition, guests may purchase hot chocolate on Live Oak Plaza to warm the heart and soul.
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Artic Express Christmas Train
Weekends in December 13670 Smiley Street Silverhill, Al 36576 Ride an authentic Steam Train through a wonderland of lights and decorations to the North Pole. Children visit with Santa in the Winter-wonderland barn and receive a free wooden toy. Lots of photo opportunities to enjoy! Free Refreshments served at the Train Station after your trip! Enjoy a ride on the Mini Train, a Sleigh/hay ride, and Inflatable on the playground. Also, Petting Zoo, Pony Ride, and Snowball Cannon are available for a slight fee. Try our Cafe’s new menu options, and a Gift Shop full of train items ideal for Christmas presents!
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888-569-5337 www.waleswest.com
Christmas Through the Ages
December 14 51 Bienville Blvd Dauphin Island, Al 36528 Experience a Christmas of “Days Gone by!” This event is a living history Day for the whole family. Come and join the soldiers from the1700’s through the 1900’s and their Families as they celebrate a non-commercial Christmas. Our visiting children will have the chance to make a seashells ornament and other decorations. 251-861-6992
www.dauphinisland.org
Eufaula 14th Annual Eufaula’s Christmas Tour of Homes
December 7, 1:00-6:00pm Historic Downtown Eufaula Eufaula, Al 36027 Stroll through history and witness the magnificence of Eufaula’s finest homes aglow in holiday splendor. This delightful tour boasts lovely, unique homes decorated for Christmas as only Eufaulians can do. Experience Christmas as never before in some of the South’s finest homes! 888-383-2852 www.eufaulapilgrimage.com AOP
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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
As the building blocks of language, the letters of the alphabet are a constant part of our lifelong experience. Ensuring that the alphabet is part of a child’s surroundings is the first step toward making them familiar with its signature shapes. When kids begin to learn the functionality of each letter, they are building a strong foundation to later understand the mechanics of reading, spelling and phonics. The following toys are a great introduction to the alphabet and the roles that each letter can play along the way.
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Alphabet Letter Blocks
The Movable Alphabet
Even before kids are ready to take on letter learning, Learning Resources’ Alphabet Letter Blocks let them take the whole alphabet in hand. These colorful letter shapes are perfectly sized for little hands to explore. The flat tops and bottoms support stacking and arranging. All the vowels in this set are the same color which also helps little learners begin to discern their important function among the consonants. Each letter block also features an open back so the letter shape functions as a mold. Children can stamp out, in clay or other mediums, all the letters they need to build simple words. Complete with a storage bag and two sets of vowels, this lightweight and versatile set of letters is an ideal hands-on introduction to the alphabet.
In a world full of capitalized alphabet toys, a really good lower case playset is a treasure for educators. One of the best is Montessori’s Moveable Alphabet, which features one wooden box with twenty-six compartments, each housing multiple plexiglass lowercase copies of the entire English alphabet. Beyond its storage function, the compartmented box encourages exploration of alphabetical order. With consonants in red and vowels in blue, the lowercase letters foster word-building in the most common format kids will encounter as readers. Available in other languages and cursive letters, The Movable Alphabet takes letter literacy to the next level as it explores all the ways that the alphabet comes together to form words.
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Alphabet Phonics Bus
Alphabet Groceries
For toddlers just meeting the alphabet for the first time, Leapfrog’s Alphabet Phonics Bus offers a playful introduction to letter shapes and sounds. The bright yellow school bus features twenty-six colorful letter buttons that come alive with unique and silly personalities. Press a letter button in letter mode to hear its name and sound. Animal mode introduces an animal that begins with the selected letter, its letter sound, and the sound the animal makes. There are also game and music modes that gently expose little learners to the letters that will play a big role later in their lives. Making letter literacy a passive part of regular play is ideal for the youngest pre-readers. Fostering familiarity with the shapes and sounds of the alphabet, the Alphabet Phonics Bus gets kids on board for early letter learning.
Nothing is left off the grocery list with Learning Resources’ Alphabet Groceries. Combining hands-on pretend play with grocery products that highlight the letters of the alphabet, this set offers a subtle introduction of both letter shapes and the sounds they make. A child’s recognition of various foods helps support their ability to match first-letter sounds as well as puzzle out whole words. Young grocers can also explore sorting the foods by type, shape, color, and even alphabetical order. Made with easy-to-clean, crush-resistant plastic and durable cardboard, this twenty-six piece grocery set includes jars, cans, boxes, and cartons that each feature a different letter, word, and colorful picture. The perfect blend of pretend play and letter literacy learning, Alphabet Groceries offers a pantry full of alphabetical basics.
(LeapFrog)
(Learning Resources)
Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com
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FamilyCalendar Friday, October 25 Fright Night at the Arboretum 6 p.m. Enjoy a special screening of a 90’s scary movie! Patrons are encouraged to bring blankets, chairs and picnic dinners. Parking is available near the entrances on three sides: along Lem Morrison and the Poultry Science parking lot, along Garden Drive and in the Arboretum parking lot off Garden Drive. The event is FREE and open to the public. scook@ auburnalabama.org Free Friday Lunch Concert Spend your lunch break enjoying a free concert by saxophonist Patrick McCurry and his jazz quartet! The show starts at noon. and is open to the public. www.eastalabamaarts.org 3rd Annual Auburn-Opelika Wine Trail Lee County Fair Grounds. Experience three wineries in East Alabama with a special farm-to-table lunch provided by Bow & Arrow. The Flower Bed, a local flower truck will also be present for this year’s event. Guests will begin the day bright and early at the Lee County Fairgrounds at 8 AM, where spacious Tiger Transit buses will be waiting to transport wine enthusiasts for the entire day. The first stop on the trail is Five Points Farms, then to Hodges Vineyards & Winery, where you will enjoy and farm-to-table lunch by Bow & Arrow. Then, the last stop on the trail is Whipporwill Vineyards. For more information, contact Tara Barr at 334-749-3353 or barrtar@aces.edu.
Saturday, October 26 Fall Family Festival Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. Not only will you find a working Blacksmith and a grist mill, but at the Russell Crossroads Fall Family Festival you’ll be treated to horseback rides, tons of games on the lawn, face painting and pumpkin carving, hotdogs, lemonade – this year we are adding Fall Festival BINGO and LOTS more! www.russellcrossroads.com Weogufka Old Farm “N” Bluegrass Day Sorghum syrup made on site with mill pulled by mules. Bluegrass music on stage and bluegrass jam sessions. Antique tractors, antique cars, old farm equipment display, gospel music, food, arts “N” crafts, vendors, children’s rides, and more. Bring your folding chair and spend the day. The event is held annually on the last Saturday in October. First Annual Family Farm Day and Beef Cook-Off Ham Wilson Livestock Arena. The Lee County Cattlemen’s Association, Watson Brothers Patio and Hearth, and Tractor Supply will be hosting a Beef cook-off for our grilling friends with some cash prizes! Fun family activities include petting zoo & rock wall. Event is $10 for adults, $5 kids, and kids 4 & under free, proceeds are going to tornado relief. For more information on the Beef Cook-Off contact: Blaine Bruce (mzb0031@tigermail.auburn.edu) or George Richburg- 334-524-3133 (richbgm@auburn. edu) Young Eagles Day Also Nov. 30. Columbus Airport, 3250 W. Britt David Road, Columbus, Ga. 8:30-11:30 AM (weather permitting). All kids ages 8-17 are invited to take a free airplane ride over Columbus! Most flights last 20 minutes. The goal is to provide a fun and educational aviation experience. 706-324-2453.
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Haunted History Tours of Wetumpka See Oct. 25. City Market Held at Town Creek Park, 7:00 AM - noon. The market hosts local farmers, growers and artists to sell their produce and products. For up-to-date information follow the City Market Facebook page @ CityMarketAuburnAL.
Tuesday, October 29 Fall Festival and Children’s Carnival Opelika Sportsplex. 5:30-8:30 PM. Children 12 and under. A safe alternative to trick-or-treating. Children wear your costume and bring a treat bag. Hayride, games, prizes, inflatables, rides, entertainment and more. www.opelika-al.gov Lee County Witches Ride Benefiting The American Cancer Society Opelika SportsPlex. Participants will decorate a broom, commit to raising $250 for the fight against cancer, dress up as a witch and pass out candy to kids during a local fall festival. For questions, contact Kayln Frederick at (334) 538-9508 or kalyn. frederick@cancer.org. Visit www.witchesrideauburn. org to see the witches, and cllick on their link to support their fundraising efforts.
Wednesday, October 30 42 ft - A Menagerie of Mechanical Marvels by Cirque Mechanics The Gogue Performing Arts Center. With a unique approach to performance, inspiring storytelling and innovative mechanical staging, the shows display a realism not usually found in modern circus that makes their message timeless and relevant. Stories are wrapped in acrobatics, mechanical wonders and a bit of clowning around. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu
Thursday, October 31 2019 Downtown Auburn Trick-or-Treat 6-8 PM. Celebrate Halloween in downtown Auburn this year with the Downtown Trick or Treat! www.downtownauburnonline.com Christmas Village Arts, Crafts & Gifts Show Oct. 31-Nov. 3. Birmingham. Alabamians know Christmas shopping officially begins when the Christmas Village Festival sets up over 600 exhibitor booths inside the B.J.C.C. Photo sessions with the Christmas Village Santa are a long lasting memento now passed along to the next generation. www.bjcc.org.
Friday, November 1 Family Friday Speaker Series with Dr. Mallory Lucier-Greer 3 PM. Auburn Alumni Center. Join Dr. Mallory LucierGreer as she talks about her work examining how stressors impact families with a focus on military families. The event is free and open to the public. www.ocm.auburn.edu/speaker_series AUsome Amphibians & Reptiles Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. A one-hour presentation on the AUsome amphibians and reptiles found in our state and beyond. Children and adults
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will enjoy this entertaining hands-on program with live animals. Admission is $5/person. Children 3 and under are free. www.auburn.edu/preserve Allman Betts Band at The Gogue Performing Arts Center The sons of Greg Allman and Dickey Betts have combined their talents to form the Allman Betts Band. For their new world tour, the band will play songs from their solo projects as well as classic Allman Brothers tunes in honor of the Southern Rock supergroup’s 50th anniversary. www.goguecenter. auburn.edu Polar Express Holiday Celebration Tickets On Sale Now Tickets are on sale now for the Polar Express at Jan Depmsey Community Arts Center and may only be purchased online at auburnalabama.org/arts. Children ages 12 and under are invited to hop aboard the Polar Express on Saturday, Dec. 7 at Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. The “train” will depart at 8 a.m., 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Activities include arts and crafts, sweet treats, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and much more! Children are encouraged to wear their favorite holiday pajamas while they participate in indoor and outdoor activities. (334) 5012963. scuster@auburnalabama.org
Saturday, November 2 Montgomery Zoo Super Hero Education Program Dress up as your favorite super hero and see what you may have in common with some of the animals at the Zoo. This program is geared for boys and girls, ages 4-12 years old. www.montgomeryzoo.com Pike Road Arts and Crafts Fair The Pike Road Arts and Crafts Fair will take place on the grounds of the historic Marks house in Pike Road. There will be over 250 vendors selling beautiful and unique arts and crafts just in time for Christmas. Delicious food, and special children’s activities. Zoo Volunteer Serve Day The Montgomery Zoo. We are looking for energetic individuals who want to volunteer in a beautiful and fun place. Volunteer commitment has allowed our Zoo to improve, expand programs, generate community involvement and support, and assist Zoo staff in daily Zoo operations. www.montgomeryzoo. com
Sunday, November 3 Downtown Holiday Open House Downtown Opelika. Start your Christmas shopping off by visiting the charming shops and restaurants in Downtown Opelika. You will find many unique and special gifts enabling you to mark those hard people off your list! Enjoy music, free gift wrapping, door prizes and more.
Wednesday, November 6 Alabama Frontier Days Nov. 6-9. Using Fort Toulouse-Fort Jackson Park as its historical backdrop, Alabama Frontier Days focuses on demonstrating frontier life in the southeast during the period 1700-1820. The public can experience this living history as frontier trades
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Thursday, November 7 Native American Festival and Pow Wow Nov. 7-10. Stone Mountain Park. The largest Native American gathering in Georgia. Experience the central role of dance in native culture as Native Americans from across the U.S. and Central America compete in inter-tribal dance and drum competitions. Learn about primitive skills such as flint-knapping, bow making, fire starting, open fire cooking, and pottery. Crawl inside a tipi and other traditional native dwellings. Arts and crafts for sale. www. stonemountainpark.com
Friday, November 8 Christmas Made in the South Nov. 8-10. This nationally acclaimed event is a fantastic way to ease into your holiday shopping and find that special holiday gift for that “hard to shop for” friend. www.madeinthesouthshows.com/ columbus
Saturday, November 9 Battles for the Armory Nov. 9-10. Tallassee Living History and Heritage Days is a Veteran’s Weekend celebration featuring the Battles for the Armory live Civil War Reenactment. Join us Saturday and Sunday when you will see a live portrayal of a Civil War battle, hosted by the 53rd Alabama Cavalry reenactors, as
well as handmade clothing, accessories, weapons, toys, and even soap giving our viewers new insight into day to day life during the 1860s. There will be a Tea/Brunch on Saturday. Battles are at 2 PM. Auburn Chili Fest The Greystone Mansion of Auburn. Your ticket includes the following: Admission to Auburn CHILI Fest 2019, Samples of the Best in the Area, Live Entertainment, Family Activities and Games and Full Bar Service. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for ages 10 -15 and free for any child under 10. www.auburnfest.com Harvest Discovery Experience Join AO Discover, Auburn-Opelika Children’s Handson Science Center and R&R Landscaping for the 2019 Harvest Discovery Experience, featuring food, drinks, nature explorations, photo opps, music, special guests and STEM, art and music activities for children. Tickets are $15 and children 12 and under get in free. Tickets will enter individuals to win one of 10 prize packages. For questions, contact Katie Murrah at ao.discoverscience@gmail.com. The Steeplechase at Callaway Gardens Magnificent champion thoroughbred horses gather on the Callaway grounds to charge through our stunning woodland setting. The foxhound parade and Jack Russell Terrier race will put a smile on your face. Events Friday and Saturday. www. callawaygardens.com
Unity Wellness Center World Aids Day 8K & 1 Mile Run/Walk Town Creek Park. Run, jog or walk a scenic 8K (5 mile) route through the moderately rolling hills of Auburn. The race will start and finish at Town Creek Park. Strollers and dogs on leashes welcome and encouraged. All proceeds are donated to Unity Wellness Center’s Client emergency assistance fund. The World AIDS Day 8K is in honor of all those living with HIV and who have died from AIDS-related illness in our community. www.unitywellnesscenter.org 5th Annual Frogwarts Oxbow Meadow. Frogwarts classes, Horcrux Hunt, Popcorn and Shaved Ice for Sale, Live animals. “There was a lot more to magic, as Harry quickly found out, than waving your wand and saying a few funny words.”-J. K. Rowling, Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. www.oxbow.columbusstate.edu/frogwarts
Tuesday, November 12 Family Discovery Hikes: White-tailed Deer 3:30 PM. The hikes offer excellent opportunities for the entire family to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. FREE – donations are welcomed. Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. preserve@auburn.edu
Thursday, November 14 Nature Walks: White-tailed Deer 8:30 AM. Nature Walks are for adults only and offer opportunities to socialize, learn, and just relax and
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Growing Room Auburn - 334-501-2044 644 N Dean Rd, Auburn, AL 36830
Growing Room Opelika - 334-748-9020 1755 Thomason Dr, Opelika, AL 36801
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FamilyCalendar decompress in the quiet, peaceful forest. FREE – donations are welcomed. Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. preserve@auburn.edu
Friday, November 15 Family Friday Speaker Series with Rusty Smith Auburn Alumni Center. Join Rusty Smith, associate director of Rural Studio for a talk highlighting Rural Studio’s commitment to Auburn University’s land grant mission with regard to building design, constructability and affordability while simultaneously engaging in community growth, health, welfare, sustainability and education. 3 PM. www.ocm. auburn.edu/speaker_series
Saturday, November 16 The Illusionists- Magic of the Holidays RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Join us for a unique opportunity to take in a Broadway show before it goes to Broadway! This mind-blowing holiday spectacular showcases the jaw-dropping talents of seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth. This non-stop show is packed with thrilling and sophisticated magic of unprecedented proportions. www.rivercenter.org Sip and Paint Workshop LaGrange Museum. Local artists will walk you through the painting process to create your own masterpiece. No experience necessary! All art materials are provided Bring a bottle of wine, a snack, a date, a friend or make a new one! You must be at least 21 years of age to consume alcohol. Painting begins promptly at 7:00 p.m. $30. www. lagrangeartmuseum.org
Thursday, November 21 Bela Fleck and The Flecktones Gogue Performing Arts Center. Innovative bluegrass and jazz quartet. The supremely talented lineup consists of Fleck on banjo, virtuoso bassist Victor Wooten, Wooten’s brother and percussionist Roy “Futureman” Wooten, and pianist/harmonica player Howard Levy. www.gogue.auburn.edu
Friday, November 22 Blue Friday in Downtown Auburn 8 AM-8 PM. In Auburn, it’s not Black Friday, but BLUE FRIDAY! Our downtown merchants will be open on the busiest shopping day of the year to offer you doorbusters, specials and extended shopping hours. Family Friday Speaker Series with Drs. Brent Fox, Haley Phillippe and Karen Marlowe Auburn Alumni Center. Join these doctors to learn more about Alabama’s opioid crisis and the creation of the Opioid Training Institute to combat the problem. The event is free and open to the public. 3 PM.
Saturday, November 23 Mainstreet Thanksgiving Market Alexander City. Welcome to the final farmer’s market of the season. Enjoy Autumn’s Bounty at
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the MainStreet Thanksgiving Market, at the Fountain on Broad Street. Get those last minute fruits, vegetables, cheeses and plants before the holiday weekend. Call MainStreet for information and last minute updates. 256-329-9337 Red Clay Highway Gravel Grinder Red Clay Brewing Company. Sponsored by Jo Dirt Racing. Get your biking gear ready! This is the second race in Jo Dirt Racing’s Southern Brewery and Distillery Tour. Participants can pick up their packets on Friday, November 22 at Red Clay and are invited to stay for some fun brews and bands. www. jodirtracing.com Parent & Child Workshop: Augmented Visionary Reality The Columbus Museum. Engage your imagination and expand your creativity as we create collages inspired by the work of artist Saya Woolfalk. Participants will go on a gallery exploration to gather inspiration before creating their own work in the Studio. Parent(s) or caretaker(s) must accompany child(ren) to this event. Please register for the number of people in your party, including parents/ caretakers and child(ren). Questions? Email jsouth@ columbusmuseum.com. Teen Kahoot! @ Columbus Museum The Columbus Museum. Grab your friends and head to the Museum for an afternoon of fun competition. Arrive early to receive clues to explore in the Museum that will help you find the correct answers once we start our trivia challenge! www. columbusmuseum.com
Friday, November 29 Christmas at Crossroads Alexander City. S great way to get out with the family and friends, do some shopping at the Holiday Bazaar on The Town Green, take a carriage ride, check off items on your Christmas list and, of course, let the kids visit with Santa. www.alabama.travel/ festivals-and-events
Saturday, November 30 Young Eagles Day See Oct. 26 for details. Small Business Saturday Downtown Opelika. Start your Christmas shopping with Small Business Saturday. Annual Holiday Market at Columbus Museum The annual holiday market is back! Shop with local vendors and enjoy special promotions in the Museum shop — just in time for you to wrap up holiday shopping!
December Dec. 1-31: Christmas in Camelot Lighted Tour Camelot Way, Opelika. 4:30-10:00 PM. The magic of Christmas comes alive throughout Camelot with the many large Christmas Cards, painted under art teacher, Roslyn Stern, by Opelika High art students. The neighborhood lights are adorned with lighted wreaths and all the houses are decorated with the wonders of Christmas. This drive-through event begins at sundown.
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Dec. 2: Daddy Daughter Date Night Ticket Go On Sale. The 31st annual Daddy Daughter Date Night is coming up! All dance nights will be held at the Clarion Inn & Suites on S. College Street. Daughters, dads, granddads, and uncles are invited to dance the night away and enjoy refreshments, door prizes, dance contests, keepsake photos, and an evening of memories. Special guests will also be in attendance! This year’s theme is “Mad Hatter”. Visit www.auburnalabama.org/parks to purchase your tickets starting at 8 a.m. on Dec. 2nd. Tickets are $35 for a father/daughter pair and $5 for each additional daughter.
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Dec. 2: Decoration Swap Opelika Public Library. 5-7 PM. Are you tired of your Christmas decorations? This year try our decoration swap! See our Facebook event page for more information! 16 and up. Free. library@opelika-al.gov
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Dec. 3: Christmas Wreath Covington Rec Center. Opelika. Decorate wreaths with all your favorite things and hang on your door to display at Christmas. Ages 5-12 years. 3:30 PM. pdriver@opelika-al.gov Dec. 3: Montrose Trio at the Gogue Performing Arts Center Featuring the music of Jimmy Buffet and based on a book by Greg Garcia and Mike O’Malley, “Escape to Margaritaville” is the ideal musical comedy for every Parrothead. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu Dec. 4-6: Super 7 State Football Championship Jordan-Hare Stadium. The Auburn-Opelika area is proud to be the bi-annual host of the Alabama High School Athletic Association’s state championship football games. The event brings the best 14 high school football teams in the state of Alabama to face off for the title in their respective divisions. www.super7al.com. Dec. 7: Opelika Christmas Parade Downtown. 10 AM. Floats will be decorated with fun tributes to the Victorian days according to the holiday season and all of its magical wonders. Visit www.opelikachamber.com for more information on how to participate in the parade, or call (334) 745-4861. Dec. 7: Jingle Jog 5K and Santa Stroll Fun Run 7 AM, Downtown Auburn. The Jingle Jog 5k and Santa Stroll Fun Run are back in 2019 – so pull out those ugly sweaters again Auburn! If you would like to volunteer for this event, please contact us at activeauburn@auburnalabama.org. Dec. 7: HO HO HO Hike. Kreher Preserve & Nature Center 10 AM. Come help us find Santa in the Kreher Nature Center forest. Then, return to a warm campfire, hot chocolate, crafts, and more. www.auburn.edu/preserve Dec. 7-8: South’s BEST Robotics Competition Auburn Campus. BEST stands for Boosting Engineering Science and Technology, and is a national program with fifty local competition sites in eighteen states. The mission of BEST is to inspire students to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through participation in a competitive robotics program that fosters knowledge, teamwork, and communication. Each year, middle and high school student teams are
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Calendar tasked with building a robot to compete against other schools. www.southsbest.org Dec. 8: Holiday Movie at The Plex Opelika SportsPlex. 6 PM. Free family friendly night. Come meet Santa, enjoy cookies and hot chocolate and watch “How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” www.opelika-al.gov Dec. 8: Auburn Christmas Parade 2019 2 PM. Join the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association for the Auburn Christmas Parade. www.downtownauburnonline.com Dec. 8: Columbus Holiday Tour of Homes 2019 This year will highlight the area that was once considered the “City Limits” of Columbus, Hilton Avenue. Many of the houses built along Hilton Avenue during the 1930s and 1940s were palatial in character and the building boom noted a spirit of progress in Columbus. The afternoon will feature tours of six – eight historic houses and music by the Schwob School. It will be a celebration of history, music, and architecture! Tickets are $25 before the tour and $30 on the day of the tour. Receive an additional $5 off the cost of your ticket if you bring a new unwrapped children’s toy to be donated (Bring to the Rankin House to receive a discount before or any house the day of the tour). Children 12 and under are free. www.historiccolumbus.com Dec. 8: Auburn Gingerbread Village Unveiling The Hotel at Auburn University. 2:00 PM. Come experience the largest Gingerbread Village in East Alabama in the conference center of the hotel. Over 10 Gingerbread Buildings are on display in the pre-function foyer for guests to admire. December 8-January 1. Dec. 9-12: AACT Auditions for “High School Musical, Jr.” Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Announcing open auditions for AACT’s Young Performers Spring Musical. Auditions tips and link to sign up for a time slot will be available at aburnact.org beginning November 1. After Graduation from high school, actors are no longer eligible to perform in an AACT Young Performers Production. bfm0005@tigermail.auburn.edu Dec. 10: The Ten Tenors: Home for the Holidays East Alabama Arts. Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. With festive favorites and modern holiday hits, you’ll want to bundle up and get to your seat on time for one of the Performance Series’ all-time audience favorites returning to Opelika. www.eastalabmaarts.com Dec. 11-15: Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour 2019 Opelika Historic District. 60 homes on North 8th and 9th street are decorated with life-size Santas, angels, toys, carousel horses and Christmas themed figures. The event is a self-directed driving tour. However, on Saturday night North 8th and 9th streets will be closed to traffic to encourage visitors, neighbors and friends to stroll through the neighborhood. This enables everyone to leisurely enjoy the homes up close, listen to the carolers, and talk with residents dressed in Victorian costumes. Admission is free. www.opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com Dec. 12: Victorian Front Porch Bike Tour Opelika Historic District. 6 PM. Ride at your own pace through the beautiful historic homes in downtown
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FamilyCalendar Opelika. This is a self-led tour. The Victorian Front Porch Tour features homes that have been transformed into a colorful, nostalgic reminder of Christmas from a simpler era. The admission to this spectacular production is free. www. opelikavictorianfrontporchtour.com Dec. 13: Christmas in a Railroad Town Downtown Opelika. 6 PM. Festivities include: Children’s train, pony rides, large and small animal petting zoo, wagon rides, trolley rides, photo booth, hot chocolate, face painting, gingerbread house contest, make your own reindeer food, make a life bead bracelet, story book reading by the Opelika Theatre Company, fire truck, late night shopping and dining. Be transported back in time and take a wagon ride through the Victorian Front Porch Christmas Tour. Enclosed trolley rides also available at the Museum of East Alabama. www. opelikamainstreet.org Dec. 13: Collinwood Luminaries Collinwood Street, Opelika. 5-9 PM. Take a drive through the Collinwood neighborhood to experience the pathway to Bethlehem. Featuring live actors and live animals, this tradition is fun for the whole family. All are welcome. The luminaries follow a one-way route beginning on Collinwood Street at the intersection of North Tenth Street and Oakbowery Road. The tour winds through the entire Collinwood subdivision and ends on Mclure Avenue. At the end of the luminary path you will find a live nativity scene – a gift from the youth group of First United Methodist Church of Opelika for over 33 years now. Free. Dec. 12-14: Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express Monkey Park, Opelika. 5-8 PM. Children will love riding the Rocky Brook Rocket around Municipal Park! This adorable miniature train has been a staple in Opelika since 1955, but during the Christmas season, the Rocket transforms into one of Santa’s Helpers and becomes the Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express! Don’t miss this fun two-night event! Enjoy food, hot chocolate, face painting, and pictures with Santa! For more information, call 334-705-5564. Dec. 13-15: Rocky Brook Rocket Reindeer Express 5:00-8:00 PM, Monkey Park. Come take a train ride through the lights! Enjoy food, hot chocolate and pictures with Santa. Free. Dec. 14-15: Santa On the Corner Toomer’s Corner. Join the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association and the Lee County United Way for Santa on the Corner. Santa will be at Toomer’s Corner on Saturday from 12 - 4 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Photos with Santa are free with a requested donation to The United Way. Dec. 17: VOCES8 at the Gogue Performing Arts Center The spellbinding “a cappella” talents of preeminent British vocal ensemble VOCES8 span everything from early English choral works to modern jazz and pop. The internationally renowned octet has performed throughout the U.K. and Europe, Asia, and across the U.S. VOCES8 will present the Gogue Center’s firstever Holiday Show. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu Dec. 18: Christmas Crafts Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Fun crafts for the
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holidays. 2:00 PM. Ages 6-10 years. pdriver@ opelika-al.gov
Recurring/Multiple Dates Veterans Appreciation Week @ the Zoo Nov. 10-16. The Montgomery Zoo. During Veteran’s Appreciation Week, all veterans, active duty military personnel, and their dependent family members receive a 50% DISCOUNT on REGULAR DAYTIME admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Thank you for your service and dedication to the nation and the world. www.montgomeryzoo. com Football, Fans and Feathers Nov. 1, 15, 22, 29. Southeastern Raptor Center. 4-5 PM. Shows will be held the Friday before Auburn home games. Tickets are $5 per person and purchased upon entry or in advance by clicking visitingauburn.edu/raptor. No charge for children age three and under. The hour-long program begins at the center’s the 350-seat Edgar B. Carter Educational Amphitheater. Hawks, falcons, eagles and other birds of prey are free-flown from towers and around the amphitheater, enabling visitors to see these raptors flying close. www.auburn.edu/raptor. Come Home to the Corner Nov. 1, 15, 22. 29. Downtown Auburn. 6-9 PM. Football, fall, Friday... what’s not to love? Come home to the corner in downtown Auburn and enjoy live music and more during this entertainment district event each home football game Friday! www.downtownauburnonline.com Columbus’ Market Days on Broadway Oct. 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. Columbus. 9:00 AM - noon. Every Saturday morning, year-round in the 1000 & 1100 blocks of Broadway. Many local and organic farmers sell produce, along with soap vendors, home goods, jewelry vendors and baked goods. Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/ MarketDaysOnBroadway/ Second Saturday at Columbus Museum Nov. 9, Dec. 14. 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus. 10 AM - noon. Free Admission. Drop by the art cart with the kids each month to explore various mediums of art, enjoy art related stories, and participate in gallery hunts at the Museum. Children of all ages are welcome and encouraged to participate. www.columbusmuseum.com Look! @ Lunchtime Every second Tuesday. Columbus Museum. 12:15 PM. A collaborative viewing exercise and dialogue centered on works of art from the Museum’s permanent collection. Jonathan Frederick Walz, Ph.D., Director of Curatorial Affairs & Curator of American Art, will facilitate LOOK! discussions. Each month a new object will be explored. Free. www.columbusmuseum.com Preschool Program @ Jule Collins Museum Bring your preschooler (ages 3-5) to the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University for a fun and educational program designed especially for early learners. Each month, we’ll tackle a different theme and make unique connections between the art in the museum and your child’s every expanding world. Each session will also pair favorite children’s books with art works in the museum’s collection
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exhibitions to encourage language development as well as a hands-on component for increasing fine motor skills. Nov. 13 - Natural Inspiration. This month, young artists will learn about the work of Patrick Dougherty and create art work using materials found in nature. Dec. 11 - The Colors of Our World. At this session, young artists will search for different colors in artworks and learn how to mix colors to create their very own masterpiece. Jule Collins Museum of Fine Arts. 10 AM and 11 AM. Pumpkin Festival Through Nov. 3. Stone Mountain Park, Ga. Play by day as you experience all of your favorite park attractions and special fall entertainment. At night, take a journey through classic storybook tales that come to life in 10 new themed areas featuring 40 newly imagined scenes with glowing lights, massive carved pumpkins, bubbles, fog and plenty of not-sospooky, glow-in-the-dark adventures after sunset. 10 AM-9 PM. www.stonemountainpark.com Country Christmas Nights Nov. 30, Dec. 6-7, 14-15, 19-21. Celebrate Christmas at The Rock Ranch! Travel the farm by wagon to see more than one mile of Christmas lights; Christmas Express Train features falling bubble snow, snowflake light tunnel and a dancing Christmas lights show; Holiday Gift Shop; Christmas Cafe; make Christmas crafts in Santa’s Workshop; Breakfast with Santa, and more! www.therockranch.com Stone Mountain Christmas Nov. 16-Jan. 5. Immerse yourself in holiday magic with evenings full of festive music, millions of dazzling lights, spectacular shows, and visits from some of your favorite holiday characters! Polar Express™ 4-D Experience; Enchanted Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony each night before our famous Christmas Parade! www.stonemountainpark.com Fantasy In Lights Nov. 15-Jan. 4. Callaway Gardens. One of National Geographic’s Top 10 Light Displays in the world, come make merry in the Christmas Village, meet holiday characters up close, and ride through the dazzling illuminated forest. www.callawaygardens. com Chick-fil-A Family Night at Tigertown Every Thursday night. Expressions of a BraveHeart Program Nov. 4, 18. Opelika Sportsplex. Braveheart is a fine arts program offering art, music and dance classes to youth and young adults with moderate to severe disabilities. Contact: John Huling • jhuling@opelikaal.gov. 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. Super Saturdays @ LaGrange Art Museum Every third Saturday of the month. LaGrange Art Museum. Drop in anytime from 1:00 – 4:00 PM. Take a tour of the current exhibit and then
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birth-24 months. Tuesdays, 9:30-10:00 AM, 10:0010:30 AM or 1:00-1:30 PM. www.auburnalabama. org/library.
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The Rock Ranch Events Oct. 27. Sunday Fun Day at The Rock Ranch. 1-7 PM. Enjoy all The Rock Ranch has to offer on a crisp Sunday afternoon from zip lining to the 30th Birthday Corn Maze. Bring a same-day church bulletin to receive a discount on tickets! Dec. 7, 14. Breakfast with Santa. 8:15 AM or 11:30 AM time slots. $17.99 each (plus tax). Dec. 21. Breakfast with the Grinch. 8:15 AM or 11:30 AM time slots. $17.99 each (plus tax). www.therockranch.com
Toddler Time Oct. 30, Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27. Auburn Public Library. Toddlers and their favorite adults enjoy 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs, movement rhymes, and a fun craft during Toddler Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! Ages 18 months-3 years. 9:3010:00 AM or 10:30-11:00 AM or 1:00-1:30 PM. www.auburnalabama.org/library.
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Michael’s Kids Club 10 AM. They craft, you shop! Kids 3 and up can enjoy hands on creativity. Sign up in store or online, or just drop in. Parent or guardian must remain on premises during the event. Nov. 2: Snowman Ornament. Nov. 9: Paper Christmas Décor. Nov. 16: Snowman Cookies. www.michaels.com Free Korean After-School Culture and Language Classes for Students Ongoing. Sponsored by Auburn University Office of Professional and Continuing Education. Free Korean language and culture classes for students in the 3rd12th grades! The classes are designed for beginners with no prior knowledge of the Korean language and will focus on developing both speaking and listening skills. Students will gain knowledge of vocabulary, phonetics and basic expressions as well as cultural aspects like K-pop and Korean games. The program offers classes for four different age groups, with each class tailored differently to meet the diverse developmental needs of students. Each class meets in a different location at varying times. www.auburn. edu/outreach
Library Events Movie Matinée Nov. 25. Opelika Public Library. Kids ages 4th grade and older are invited to join us for a movie matinée. Attendees will vote on the [PG] movie when they arrive! Free. 2:00 p.m. library@opelika-al. gov Thanksgiving Throwdown Nov. 25-27. Opelika Public Library. Can’t be stuck in the house anymore? Just gotta go somewhere? Gobble to Cooper Library and enjoy DIY crafts for all ages! library@opelika-al.gov Fa-La-La Festival Dec. 21. Opelika Public Library. 10 AM. Join Cooper Library Staff and explore the magic of Christmas at this fun, one day festival. Free. library@opelika-al. gov Recycled Teenagers Book Club Oct. 14. Opelika Public Library. 2 PM. Monthly book club featuring lively discussions around books chosen by Opelika Library Director, Rosanna McGinnis. Books are provided. vwhite@opelika-al.gov Board Game Hangout Oct. 28, Nov. 4, 11, 18, 25. Opelika Public Library. From Monopoly to Betrayal at the House on the Hill to Sushi Go, Monday is for board games. BYOB (that’s Bring Your Own Board game) or play one of ours. Board Game Hangout is geared towards ages 16 and up. 5:00-7:00 PM. www.opelika.al/gov Baby Time Oct. 29, Nov. 5, 12, 19, 26. Auburn Public Library. Babies and their favorite adults enjoy 20 minutes of stories, songs, bounces, and tickles during Baby Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! Ages
Preschool Time Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28. Preschoolers and their favorite adults enjoy 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs, movement rhymes, and a fun craft during Preschool Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! 3 – 5 years. Wednesdays, 9:30-10:00 AM, 10:30-11:00 AM or 1:00-1:30 PM. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Story Time Oct. 25, 28, Nov. 1, 4, 8, 11, 15, 18, 22, 25, 29. Opelika Public Library. Join us for an interactive and engaging preschool program that is sure to delight and entertain. They won’t even know they are learning! Meets Mondays and Fridays. library@ opelika-al.gov. Saturday STEM Storytime Oct. 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. Auburn Public Library. Preschoolers - 2nd grade children and their caregivers are invited to join us for a storytime on Saturday mornings that is all about STEM. 10:0011:00 AM. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math This storytime will focus on these concepts in a fun, interactive, story-driven format Please note: Some activities may involve messy fun! (334) 501-3296. Brick Builders Club Oct. 26, Nov. 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. Opelika Public Library. If you love creating with Lego bricks, then this is the place to be! Open to all ages, but geared towards school-aged children, your creativity will take the spotlight as you build whatever you can imagine. Lego bricks provided. library@opelika-al.gov. Gamers Society Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28. Auburn Public Library. 4:00 PM. It’s Game On at the Auburn Public Library The Programming Room will be open for Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokemon, and video games. Gamers must bring their own materials The library will provide materials for video game play. Games must be rated E, E10, or T; no rated M games. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Code Club Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28. Code Club. Opelika Public Library. Code Club at the Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library is going to teach your kids how to make website, apps, and games in a fun environment. Bring your own laptop if you have one, but it is not required. Thursdays. Code Club, Jr. Oct. 30, Nov. 6, 13, 20, 27. Opelika Public Library. Code Club at the Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library is going to teach your kids how to make website, apps, and games in a fun environment. Wednesdays, 3:30 PM. library@opelika-al.gov Imagination Lab Oct. 31, Nov. 7, 14, 21, 28. Opelika Public Library. The Imagination Lab is for young minds
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to explore and create. From magnetic circuits making sound to programming a small robot, the lab is waiting for BRAIN power to create a spark! Thursdays, 3:00-4:00 PM. library@opelika-al.gov
Performances
eastalabamaarts.org
“The Color Purple, The Musical” Nov. 13. East Alabama Arts. Featuring a soulraising, Grammy®-winning score of jazz, gospel, ragtime, and blues, this all-new Broadway hit was hailed by The New York Times as a “ravishingly reconceived production that is a glory to behold”. www.
Disney’s “Frozen Jr.” Nov. 1-3. Red Mountain Theatre Company, Bham. The show features all of the memorable songs from the animated film. A story of true love and acceptance between sisters, Frozen JR. expands upon the emotional relationship and journey between Princesses Anna and Elsa. www. redmountaintheatre.org Going on a Bear Hunt Nov. 16, 20-24. Theatre for the Very Young Series. Springer Opera House. Gee, I hope I find a bear! Join a variety of characters on their journey through the season of Fall as they explore the sights, sounds, and smells of autumn. This interactive performance will involve sensory experiences as we use our imaginations to travel to the bear’s den. Hike over mountains, crawl through mud, swim rivers and climb tall trees in this outdoor adventure! We can’t go over it, can’t go under it, can’t go around it; we have to go through it! This show is geared for audiences 0-5 years old and their caretakers. www. springeroperahouse.org Auburn Area Community Theatre presents “The Little Prince Nov. 7-10 and 14-17. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. This imaginative, multi-media adaptation of the classic novel is truly a magical theatrical experience, taking audiences on a journey across space and time to follow the Little Prince and the stranded aviator who becomes his unlikely friend. This production is intended for all ages (but may be best enjoyed by children 10 and up). $12/Adults, $10/Students and Seniors. Tickets can be purchased at auburnact.org. “Cinderella” - The New Broadway Musical Dec. 5-8, 12-15, 19-22. Springer Opera House. This lush production features an incredible orchestra, jaw-dropping transformations and all the moments you love—the pumpkin, the glass slipper, the masked ball and more—plus some surprising new twists! www.springeroperahouse.org Family Theater Presents “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever” Dec. 6-7, 13-15, 20-21. www.familytheatre.org
Support & Parenting Groups A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an allinclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race,
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FamilyCalendar religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-728-1162 or email: momofpnk@ gmail.com. Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-7058877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com. Auburn UMC Children’s Day Out Program Every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.–12 noon. $10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information. Auburn United Methodist Church. 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/Opelika MOPS & MOMSnext We meet the first and third Thursdays of the month at Trinity United Methodist Church in Opelika. We offer fellowship and fun for moms of kiddos from infancy through age 15. We offer play dates, moms nights out, and special events! For more information check us out on Facebook at Facebook.com/AuburnOpelikaMOPS or email us at auburnopelikamops@gmail.com. Bible Study Fellowship Held at Parkway Baptist Church, Thursdays at 10 a.m., (334) 546-1386. 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. Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register. Caregiver Support Group Caring for a family member or friends can be rewarding, but it’s not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your parents, spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn ways to cope with every day stresses of caring for someone you love. Gain tools and resources to help you on your journey. This program is supported by the Opelika Sportsplex, Lee-Russell Agency on Aging and HomeInstead Senior Care. This group is open to the public. Meets the last Monday of each month at 12:30 p.m. at Opelika Sportsplex AAC. Instructors are: Valeri White (Sportsplex), Bridgette Sager
Auburn Opelika Parents I November 2019
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(Home Instead Senior Care), Lisa Askew (Lee-Russell Council of Gov).
social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974.
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 334826-3082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net.
Parent Educational Workshop - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy. 2nd Tuesday of each month, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika.
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. Grandparents and Non-Parent Relatives or Friends Raising Children Support Group For grandparents or any non-parent involved in raising younger children. Meetings first Monday of every month @ Auburn United Methodist Church Annex, Room D134, 6 - 7 p.m. Various speakers and lots of support from others in your same situation. Childcare is provided. Phone Lisa @ 334421-7163 or Debra @ 334-332-9703. 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)334-257-3950 or (c)334-740-8780. Lee County Department of Human Resources Now recruiting foster/adoptive families. To learn more about fostering and adoption please call our office at 334-737-1100. Please join us in this endeavor to help our foster children. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/ Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that are waiting to adopt are welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net for more information. Miracle League To volunteer or for more information, www. miraclefield.org or eamiracleleague@gmail.com. MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids. New website is www.auburnmoms.com. MOPS of Auburn We meet the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at Auburn United Methodist Church from 9:30 - 11:30. Childcare is provided, although we ask that you make reservations if possible. Meetings are open to mothers with children ages 5 and under. www.facebook.com/ mopsofauburn mopsofauburn@gmail.com. Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun
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Parent Support Group - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy meets the 1st Monday (unless national holiday), 9:00-11:00 a.m. and the next evening (Tuesday) from 6-7:30 p.m. Visit www.leecountyautism.com for complete information. Email info@leecountyautism.com or call 334-740-0716. Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama offers 2nd Saturdays, group classes, and more. Contact Penny Messer at 334-444-6827. Email smoea@bellsouth. net. Website www.smoea.vpweb.com or find us on facebook. Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@insideyfc.com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com. Therapeutic Foster Care Program Foster a Child’s Future Today - Become a Therapeutic Foster Parent! Certification classes are free. Please call Ms. Shanquetta France at Lee County Youth Development Center’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program. (334) 749-2296, Ext. 1812 - You can make an eternal difference in a child’s life! Therapeutic Rec: Discover Group Sept.-May. Opelika Sportplex. Discover is an opportunity for high-functioning, intellectually disabled citizens that are no longer enrolled in school. We will discover together through various activities and will travel once a month. Scheduled trips may change meeting times. There are costs associated with this program. Contact: John Huling • jhuling@opelika-al.gov Trinity UMC (Opelika) Mom’s Morning Out Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45–12. $15 per child, $5 each additional. Trinity United Methodist Church.
Sports Auburn Football Nov. 7, 15, 23 www.auburntigers.com Auburn Volleyball Nov. 1, 10, 17, 20, 24 www.auburntigers.com Auburn Basketball Nov. 1, 5, 15, 18, Dec. 5, 19 Auburn Women’s Basketball Nov. 6, 14, 24, Dec. 15 Auburn Equestrian Nov. 1, 15
Please send your calendar events to Kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com! www.auburnopelikaparents.com
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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston
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Practice Leadership, Not Yelling
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When I get frustrated, or feel that someone didn’t do something the way I’d hoped, I sometimes yell. But over the years, I’ve learned that yelling about things is a pretty ineffective way to get what I want done. And yelling at your teen is probably the least effective bring about change I their life too. It’s sort of like trying to train a horse by screaming at him. Imagine standing at the edge of the fence and hollering out directions while expecting the horse to understand, and move one way or the other in response. Or yelling at him more when he doesn’t get it, and getting louder when the horse fails to respond, and you feel unheard. The trouble is, horses aren’t led by yelling at them. Horses respond by being led. They need someone to attach a lead-rope to their halter, and apply some pressure in order to train them in exactly what you want them to do. Without a lead – a horse will never do what you want him to do. And without leadership, your teen will never be trained, or respond the way you want him to. My point is, yelling at your teen doesn’t help him understand what you want him to do. But leadership does. The dynamic I often see with troubled families is a gross imbalance in family leadership. One parent may go overboard and over-respond, while the other lands too softly, and under-responds, and may even avoid the conflict altogether. The net
response to ineffective and imbalanced family leadership is often seen in ongoing fits of anger, and screaming that includes everyone in the family. One recent example of a gross imbalance in family leadership is that of a dad whose wife constantly over-reacted to their son’s verbal disrespect. Instead of dealing with his son’s disrespect by setting boundaries and applying strong consequences, he would simply tell his wife to stop being so sensitive. After a while, she couldn’t tolerate even the slightest bit of sarcasm or verbal energy coming from their son, and the encounters between the two of them got so heated that the dad finally decided to move out. He rented an apartment down the road from their house and lived with his verbally abusive and out of control teen – just so he could stay married to his wife. She was beyond her ability to control her reactions, and he was beyond his ability to step-up and put limits on his son’s behavior while in the home. Hers was an over-reaction, his was an under-reaction, and neither response helped their son with his own behavior. Single moms face huge concerns with family leadership, and operate at an even deeper level of need than most – because one of the two parents required for a balanced family leadership is gone or missing in action. By the time a boy is 12 or 13, he can often out-yell, out-swing, and out-weigh a mom. One single mom dealt with the lack of ability to effectively lead her physically aggressive son by locking herself into her bedroom with her 51
dinner every night, ignoring things as her son kicked the door in, broke windows, smashed furniture, and made a mess of their life. If your home lacks leadership, rest assured that the way to assert more control is not through screaming, and not through ignoring. Instead of lashing out or laying low– lead. Lead with strength. Set strong boundaries, apply strong but appropriate consequences. Balance your strength with love and wisdom and good listening. And if you need to, get some help. Every time your child understands that a parent is over the edge (usually recognized through ongoing screaming or yelling) he knows you cannot be trusted to lead him well. Every time rage becomes the way to control your child, it sets off a hopeless cycle of despair in your child’s heart. Every time your child uses his rage to control things in the home, he is trying to ask you for help to lead him out of a troubling dilemma. Yelling is a sign that on some level – you are just as out of control as he is – and unable to lead either one of you out of the mess you are in. Family leadership is a tricky balance of strength and softness. When the leadership scales get tipped too far toward strength, the result is over-control. When the leadership scales get tipped to far toward softness, the result is avoidance and under-control. And both imbalanced approaches usually result in a whole lot of yelling, and offer no help for your troubled teen.
Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.
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The Addams Family
Gemini Man
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: CSexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A Everyone’s favorite creepy clan is back, this time in an animated feature film, made more horrifying by its 3D option. Fans of macabre mayhem will be pleased to know that the Addams family are still their strange, scary selves: Morticia (voiced by Charlize Theron) uses her late parents’ ashes as cosmetics, Wednesday (voiced deadpan by Chloe Grace Moretz) guillotines her dolls, Pugsley (voiced by Finn Wolfhard) sets off explosives instead of training in swordsmanship. The plot of this film turns on two points: Pugsley’s fast approaching coming-of-age ceremony - the Addams mazurka - and the desire of Margaux (voiced by Allison Janney) a property developer/reality TV host to sell the homes she has designed and built in the neighboring community. But the Addams’ gloomy mansion stands in her way. Although there are a few laughs and some action sequences, much of the movie crawls like a cortege on its way to the cemetery. If you’re looking for a movie to make you laugh, don’t expect side-splitting comedy. Although The Addams Family has frightening moments aplenty, none of them are gory. There are crossbows, guillotines, an electric chair, and explosives but no one is harmed by them. There are also lots of ominous moments involving eerie settings, ghostly sounds, and menacing music. Sensitive children and preschoolers will be upset by the frightening scenes, but most kids will shrug off the scares and laugh.
MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C+ Violence: CSexual Content: AProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: C Henry Brogan (Will Smith) has been an assassin for an American intelligence agency for most of his adult life. The effects on him are adding up – insomnia, nightmares, and guilt – so he decides it’s time to retire. Unfortunately, it’s much harder to get away from his past than it was to get into it. Things only get more complicated when he realizes the shooter the agency has sent after him is...himself. With the help of Danny, who is the agent responsible for tailing him and is played by Mary Elizabeth Winstead, and his old friend Baron (Benedict Wong), Henry has to confront himself and the system that made him. The movie was shot at 120 frames per second (industry standard is 24), and then modified for 3D. Sometimes this works fantastically well. But when the camera starts moving quickly, suddenly you’re strapped into your seat for Ultra-3D Vomit Vision. This isn’t a movie for the dizzy or easily nauseated. The fight choreography is well done, for the most part. Sequences are memorable, easy enough to track, and have interesting adaptations to the settings and situations. The story is admittedly inferior. It’s very predictable, and not much happens that you wouldn’t have called twenty minutes in advance. That said, I don’t think Gemini Man was going out of its way to blow you away with slick dialogue and clever plotting. The story is an excuse for Will Smith to beat himself up on two different continents, and it delivers. Gemini Man is well rated at PG-13. The violence is what you’d expect and there are about a dozen moderate profanities and one sexual expletive.
High Strung Free Dance
Maleficent: Mistress of Evil
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: B+ Sexual Content: B Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: AWhen you’re driven to perform, chances are you’re aiming for the bright lights of Broadway. High Strung Free Dance tells the story of three artists chasing fame on the Great White Way. Choreographer Zander (Thomas Doherty) has smoldering good looks, an upper-class British accent, a firm belief in his own genius, and an apparently brilliant dance show he’s bringing to Broadway. And to make the show a smash hit, he needs to get the casting exactly right. Charlie (Harry Jarvis) is a brilliant young pianist desperately looking for work as a musician. Then one night, after getting hit by a car, he sees a lovely young woman, and his luck turns. Barlow (Juliet Doherty) is a beautiful, doe-eyed young dancer who’s making ends meet as a telemarketer while she gets cut from one audition after another. When her roommate disappears, having absconded with three months’ worth of rent, Barlow gets an eviction notice. Desperation makes her bold, and when she’s cut from Zander’s audition, she makes a gutsy attempt to get hired on the show. Parents considering High Strung Free Dance for their dance-mad tweens and teens can be reassured by the very mild content issues. The biggest issue in this movie is the Barlow-Zander plotline. When Zander offers his employee a ride, when he gives her the lead role and then kisses her, when he has a sexually charged dance with her, he is crossing some critically important lines in a post-#MeToo world. Parents are likely to be disturbed by Zander’s selfish treatment of a vulnerable young woman in his employ.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A In Maleficent: Mistress of Evil, Angelina Jolie reprises the role she created in 2014’s Maleficent. But this sequel is a significant departure from the first film. Maleficent was a surprisingly dark film for a Disney production. The sequel has a more intricate plot but it’s set in a simpler emotional context, which makes it feel more like what you’d expect in a family film. Maleficent: Mistress of Evil opens happily. Aurora (Elle Fanning) is blithely ruling the Moors and has accepted Prince Philip of Ulstead’s (Harris Dickinson) request for her hand. Telling the parents doesn’t go as well as the proposal – Maleficent is incensed and Queen Ingrith (Michelle Pfeiffer) reluctantly agrees to welcome the foster-daughter of a non-human into her life. When the two families meet for dinner, tempers flare, King John (Robert Lindsay) collapses (apparently cursed), and Aurora must choose between her godmother and mother-in-law-to-be. Although Aurora and Philip’s engagement sets the narrative in motion, they are almost peripheral figures in this movie, which boils down to the conflict between Maleficent and Queen Ingrith. There’s only one truly evil character, and (hint) it isn’t Maleficent. If you enjoy movies with deliciously wicked villains, you’re going to have a blast with this one. There are many moments of darkness and peril which render this production unsuitable for preschoolers and young children. Older kids will likely enjoy this film with its fast-moving action and you might even get teens to watch it.
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