Auburn-Opelika Parents October 2021 by KeepSharing

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National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week 2021 October 24-30, 2021

Get the Facts Get Your Home Get Your About Lead Tested if Built Child Tested Poisoning Before 1978 for Lead

• Most children get lead poisoning from paint in homes built before 1978. • Lead poisoning can cause permanent learning and behavior problems.

• Contractors must be certified to perform lead testing and renovations in pre-1978 homes; it’s the law.

• A blood test is the only way to know if your child has lead poisoning. • It is recommended all children be tested at ages 1 and 2.

Visit our website to learn more about lead poisoning. ADPH Environmental Alabama Childhood Lead Services Lead Branch Poisoning Prevention Program 1-800-819-7644 1-833-667-1495 alabamapublichealth.gov/lead alabamapublichealth.gov/aclppp www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents This ad is 100% funded with federal dollars through a cooperative 1agreement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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Volume 12 Number 8

Columns

Kids Say the Wisest Things Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Consider Creative Consequences for Kids

Common Sense Media

Unique ways to improve behavior.

Should you read your child’s texts and when?

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Kids Health Watch sponsored by Cornerstone Family Chiropractic

26 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

AND

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Halloween Traditions

Five fun ideas to implement year after year with your kids.

Our guide shares what’s going on around town and nearby. Make plans to enjoy these events!

Departments 6

Bits and Pieces

On The Cover Zoë, Mia and Eva Akins are the children of Tyron and Constella Akins of Auburn. Zoë attends Creekside Elementary School and she enjoys dance, gymnastics, piano, singing and creating. Mia attends Growing Room Auburn and loves singing, dancing and art. Eva is 7 months and also attends Growing Room Auburn. She enjoys lots of tummy time and playing with her sisters.

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Family Calendar

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Publisher’sNote What do you look forward to when October arrives in East Alabama? Is it the cool, crisp mornings with an afternoon warming? Is it the fall festivals, hayrides and haunted barns? How about Saturdays down South? Maybe your family enjoys exploring downtown on your way to tailgating and Auburn kickoffs. Or, maybe your family is like mine, and October is all about traditions. When the calendar flips to October, we know it’s time for some great family downtime and celebration of fall on The Plains. For us, it’s those evenings by the bonfire, roasting marshmallows and hot dogs, while watching some of our favorite teams play on the big screen. It’s also a weekend of orange and blue pompoms and cheering on our Tigers inside Jordan-Hare Stadium. But nothing beats the tradition of proudly marching up the Thatch Concourse toward Toomer’s Corner, with the Auburn family, to toss toilet paper into the tippy top of those iconic Toomer Trees. Another highlight for my family is picking the perfect afternoon to drive up to the local pumpkin patch, jump onto the hayride and search until we find the perfect pumpkin for our porch. These are the days that fill October and where memories are made and traditions are kept. In this month’s feature article, 5 Halloween Traditions to Start with Your Kids, the author has some tried and true ideas that would make great additions for your family this season. She suggests gathering the kids and deciding on how to get festive together. One way would be to ready your house for Halloween princesses, goblins, and superheroes. Do you decorate the porch with a spooky scene each year? Or, maybe you carve pumpkins together and line them up on your front steps. These are fun family traditions that everyone can get excited about. For us, we have created a tradition of brainstorming costume themes and coming up with creative ways to get into character. Last Halloween, we channeled the classic Scooby-Doo and his Gang for an evening of mystery solving. Zoinks….we had another mystery to solve! It looked like Scooby and his friends found clues that led to our neighbor’s house, where we spent the evening watching movies and indulging on festive, sweet treats. We caught the bad guy, who would have gotten away with it, if it weren’t for my meddling kids. Alas, they would do anything for a Scooby snack! My kids have been brainstorming this year’s theme since the first day of November last year. It’s never too early to plan, right? Find fall traditions your family can get on board with and go all in. Apple picking, truck-or-treating, spooky stories by the fire and porch decorating can be fun for the whole family. Finally, make sure to check out our Fall Festivities and Halloween Fun Guide for local and regional events to enjoy with your family. Remember, it’s all about celebrating every season and making memories.

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

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 Dr. Jordan Jensen Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Sarah Lyons Dave Ramsey Cover Photography Keightley Garnett Simple Joy Photography www.simplejoyphoto.com

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

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 475 Bennington Ct, Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 329-8073 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2021 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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by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

It Takes a Village I am often sitting across from a child who has made some bad choices. In one specific situation, a boy complained, “My parents won’t let me go on a camping trip with my friends and a few of their dads because they are afraid I will do something stupid without them.” Due to the onset of technology, the ease of travel, frequent job transitions, and now the pandemic, Americans have become more and more isolated. The modernization we enjoy not only lends to isolation, but also negatively impacts the development of healthy parenting. One casualty of isolation is the loss of the availability of other adults to have a positive influence on our children. Studies have repeatedly shown that people who are connected to a community live longer, happier lives. A parenting community offers fellowship with others,

Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

sharing common attitudes, interests, and goals. Community provides your children the opportunity to learn from other adults that you know and trust. One part of community is your peers. Find friends that have children the same age as yours. This is beneficial for a variety of reasons. First, you realize how “normal” your struggles with your child are; this is very cathartic. Second, you create a group of people that can help parent your children. Other parents will see gifts, talents, and abilities that you do not. What you may see as a weakness in your child, your friends may see as a strength. Also, your friends will lovingly point out your “blind spots” that you may need to address with your children. Another part of community is simply allowing your child to spend time with trusted adults --without you. Not only will these adults help your child create a

broader perspective, they will also ease some of the burden of isolated parenting. If we are only showing our children what we know and do, we are inadvertently narrowing their point of view and limiting their choices. If we expose our children to other adults, we broaden their opportunities and interests. Allowing your child to watch other adults handle difficult situations or make decisions may give your child more skills than you alone can provide. The most beneficial members of your community are those who have gone before you. Find older parents you respect and allow them to pour into your children and you. Parenting is the highest and most difficult calling. It is foolish to try and do it alone. I vividly remember going through a difficult parenting season with my son. When I reached out to one older mother she simply said, “He’s just going over fool’s hill. He has lost his mind, but it will come back. They all do this.” Not only did she encourage me, she also took the time to talk with my son about everything she saw in him. The good and the bad. Not only should you find these adults, you should also be these adults. It does not take a village to raise a child, but it does take a village to raise a child well.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

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Spiders, Snakes and Scarecrows, Oh My!

Join us October 3 at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center in Auburn for a fun and festive twist to our In the Garden Series. In The Garden with Cyndi is a fun, casual gardening class for adults where you get to learn tips and tricks, get your hands dirty, and get expert advice on a myriad of gardening techniques and best practices. Cyndi Czerkawski is an experienced gardener and educator. She has spent years accumulating knowledge about gardening and is ready to pass that on to you! Visit our website for more information: https://aub.ie/inthegarden

Opelika’s Public Library Grand Opening

Food, Tours, Swag & Games! The new Opelika Public Library will allow us to offer more programs and collection space in a modern and updated facility. So many amazing amenities for the entire community: Lewis Cooper Jr. Auditorium • Library Park Pavilion • Outdoor greenspace • Six additional meeting spaces and study rooms • State-of-the-art computer labs • Kids space • Teen hangout area Come meet, study, converse, gather, collaborate, work and unwind in a comfortable, inviting and safe space. Come take a tour! October 2, 10:30 AM-3:00 PM. 1100 Glenn Avenue, Opelika.

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Opelika Songwriter’s Festival

The Opelika Songwriters Festival consists of multiple venues in Historic Downtown Opelika that are transformed into listening rooms and host over 40 singer-songwriters, from local artists to Grammy Award-winning performers, drawing attendees from across the Southeast. A festival pass gets fans access to every venue, giving them the opportunity to experience many different locations and songwriters over the weekend. Single-Day, Two-Day, and ThreeDay Passes are available for purchase online. Volunteers are also needed to help the festival run smoothly. www.opelikasongwritersfestival.com

Fall Festival & Children’s Carnival

It’s that time of year…Fall Festival and Children’s Carnival will be at the Opelika SportsPlex on October 26, 5:30-8:30 PM. Join us for fall games, prizes, hayrides and more. Ages 12 and under welcome. www.opelika-al.gov

Orchestra at The Oaks

The Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, in partnership with the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association, will present Orchestra at the Oaks, a concert featuring the Auburn Community Orchestra, October 14, at 6:00 PM. The concert will be outdoors, with the orchestra performing classical favorites on the Tiger’s Paw at Toomer’s Corner. The ACO welcomes back Music Director and Conductor Richard Prior, a native of Great Britain who has been directing and conducting orchestras in Georgia for over 25 years. Under his direction, the ACO will provide Auburn residents and visitors an expertly rehearsed and enthusiastically prepared concert at Toomer’s Corner. For information, please contact the JDCAC at (334) 501-2963. Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

Friday Fright Night Movie at Kiesel Park

Friday, October 22--An evening of spooky movies to get you in the mood for Halloween! The first feature Hocus Pocus (1993) will start at 6:15 PM, and at 8 PM our second feature Seven (1995) will be shown. Patrons are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs, and concessions will be available for purchase to enjoy the movies. FREE. 6:15 PM, 520 Chadwick Lane, Auburn. www.auburnalabama.org/parks www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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2021 Downtown Auburn Trick-or-Treat

Something spooky this way comes with the return of Auburn’s annual Downtown Trickor-Treat! On October 29, 6:00-8:00 PM, we will have a ghoulishly good time in downtown Auburn. Make plans to join the City of Auburn and the Downtown Merchants Association for this fun and spooky event! This is a fantastic alternative to door-to-door trick-or-treating, with downtown merchants handing out candy and plenty of treats for everyone! There will be music, provided by our special spooky entertainment for the evening, and the annual Costume Contest.

Please send local events for free publication to kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com! Annual Pioneer Day

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Our annual Pioneer Day (formerly Syrup Sopping) will be October 23 at Pioneer Park in beautiful Loachapoka. Take a step back in time with demonstrations, good food, live music and variety of vendors! Demonstrations will include making cane syrup, shelling corn, pioneer games, ice-cream making, and much more! And of course, the buildings of Pioneer Park will be open for browsing. Come out and experience life when it was “slower”! Rain date will be Sunday, October 24. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org 7

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Cornerstone Family Chiropractic

Getting “On” Your Child’s Nerves “I don’t want to!” In infancy, kids were cute – simply eating, sleeping, and pooping – but now when it’s time for dinner, homework, or bed, it is common to be met with resistance. “I want pizza! I want to play video games! I’m not tired!” Putting it bluntly, children can get on our nerves. At the same time, we’re getting on our childrens’ nerves, but not in the way you might think. Eating healthy food, education, getting plenty of sleep, etc. all contribute to a child’s nervous system, the area of the body that directs the functions of all other body systems. We want our children to grow well and function optimally, and a healthy nervous system is the key. While we are all trying to find the best ways to foster healthy nervous system function, there is one big part that is often overlooked, its protective structure, the spine. The nervous system begins in the brain, travels down the spine, and then exits in parts throughout the spine to innervate the heart, lungs, muscles, and all other parts of the body. The structure and condition of the spine is crucial to keep a healthy nervous system, as an imbalance

Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

or deformation to its structure can put stress on the nervous system. These imbalances can certainly happen when a child falls or bumps his head, but often times, these imbalances occur as early as birth. According to the journal Developmental Medicine & Child Neurology, “forceful longitudinal traction during delivery is thought to be the most important cause of neonatal spinal injury…” additionally reporting, “… injury of this nature, sometimes extensive, is often latent, undiagnosed clinically and pathologically.” If this compromise remains hidden, it can lead to a number of problems during development and interfere with normal function in life, whether homework, play, or sleep. It’s a scary prospect, but thankfully, there are doctors who study these spinal compromises and practice exclusively correcting them. One such facility that has several doctors on staff who specialize in infant and child spinal care is Cornerstone Family Chiropractic Clinic. It is understood that infants, as well as children to an extent, are in an ever-growing state where all the systems are developing and still putting some pieces together, such as the spine.

The doctors value this fact and approach each case with only gentle, nonforceful interventions to correct any found imbalances and follow-up regularly to assure no other imbalances return, the setup for a healthy structured nervous system. When the nervous system is healthy, children are going to be functioning and developing well. Yes, they may still get on your nerves from time to time, but make sure you get “on” their nerves by encouraging them to eat healthy foods, study, exercise, sleep well, and have them checked regularly for any hidden imbalances in-between. They will appreciate it in the long run.

Dr. Jordan Jensen earned his Bachleor’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences at Auburn University in 2013 and earned his Doctor of Chiropractic at Palmer College of Chiropractic in 2018. Following graduation, Dr. Jensen was accepted into the International Chiropractic Association’s Diplomate of Craniocervical Procedures postgraduate program, where his research encompasses Chiropractic’s application of advanced imaging and patient outcomes.

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Autauga County Schools

Lee County College and Career Night

Adventures In Art

Auburn High School hosted the Lee County Area-Wide College and Career Night recently, and Juniors, Seniors, and their parents were able to meet with representatives from various universities, colleges, local businesses, and U.S. Military branches of service to learn more about opportunities post-

ACS fifth-grade students are participating in The City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Department’s Adventure in Art program titled “Alabama Metal Arts and Industrialization.” This year, Adventures in Art focuses on Alabama’s rich industrial heritage by spotlighting the National Historic Landmark, Sloss Furnace, located in Birmingham. Students are participating in workshops and demonstrations led by the Sloss Furnace Metal Arts team. The students then get to create a mold for the iron pour and take their iron art home as a keepsake. Each component of this event relates to this year’s theme, “Alabama Metal Arts and Industrialization.” Every year, Adventures in Art seeks to provide Auburn students with creative experiences in the arts through exploration and hands-on activities. This is just one of many programs the City of Auburn and its community partners present for students from Auburn City Schools. Thank you to all those involved for making this unique learning experience happen!

graduation. Parent workshops were also held throughout the evening, focusing on financial aid, NCAA compliance, and choosing a major. Thank you to all those involved for making this event a success! The future is bright in Lee County.

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Music Education

Thank you to The East Alabama Regional In-service Center (EARIC) for providing meaningful professional development for music educators across the state, including several of Auburn City Schools’ very own! Sandy Lantz and Gretchen Walhburg presented to more than 70 music teachers on Saturday, August 28th about integrating their book “Creative Bits with Children’s Lit” via Zoom! Children’s books can come alive in music classrooms with songs and creative lesson plans for a variety of different grade-level courses. Each book is read and embellished with songs, games, movement, puppetry, and drama. This approach is a great way to present essential music concepts through engaging young musicians with stories, reading, and songs. EARIC serves 15 local school districts and over 4,500 educators, and this professional development opportunity was part of the 7th Annual East Alabama General Music Workshop!

East Samford Student Wins Title of National American Miss Alabama Preteen

Curriculum Night

In the second week of school, parents are taking the opportunity to attend curriculum nights to learn more about their child’s school! These events are a great way to hear about what is being taught in the classroom and expectations at each grade level. Recently, Dean Road Elementary School hosted their first curriculum night for parents of kindergartners, where they heard from the Parent-Teacher Organization, the administrative team, and their teachers.

Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

Michaela Sanford, a seventh-grader at East Samford School, won the title of 2021 National American Miss Alabama Preteen on August 2nd! Michaela also won Talent, Best Resume, and 1st Runner Up in the Heart of Service Award. She also received a $1,000 cash scholarship as the state winner and $300 for being the talent winner. Michaela was escorted by her dad, an Auburn police officer, and Ret. Chief Warrant Officer from the United States Army. Michaela enjoys helping at the local American Cancer Society by participating in the local Relay for Life and annual Cancer Survivors picnic. She also loves to make tie blankets for Valentine's Day and to give to chemo patients to keep warm while receiving treatment. ACS Is proud of Michaela for representing our school system on a state and national level! 12

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Character In Action

Lee County Family Court Judge Mike Fellows honored four Auburn City Schools students recently! The first was Mason Spratlin, a seventh-grader at East Samford School ESS, for keeping up with all his schoolwork while at home for an extended absence. According to one of his teachers, Pam Gaylor, Mason took the initiative to locate, learn, and complete his assignments. Still, upon returning to the classroom, he noticed another student struggling with math and offered to help tutor this student with enthusiasm and a positive attitude. “His character shines brightly in the classroom,” said Mrs. Gaylor. Next up was Joy Ahn, also a seventh-grader at ESS, for never hesitating to help someone in need. One day recently, Joy bought an ice cream sandwich at school and gave it to East Samford’s School Resource Officer, Officer Fanning, on her way out of the cafeteria. “She didn’t have to do that, but she did,” said Kathy Placek, a science teacher at ESS, “She is so kind and generous.” Another ESS seventh-grader, Andrew Lee, was recognized for stepping up to help a particular student that does not speak English as a first language. According to one of his teachers, Kelbi Pozun, Andrew has become like a second teacher in the classroom for this student. “Andrew walks this student to different locations on campus, translates assignments,” said Mrs. Pozun, “Not only has he helped his classmate, but he is also an exemplary student.” Last but not least, Caleb Farris, a kindergartener at Cary Woods Elementary School, was recognized for going above and beyond each and every day. At the beginning of kindergarten, a lot of time is spent on building a classroom community while learning expectations and procedures. “From the very first day, Caleb blew me away with his kindness and loving heart for others,” said Meaghan Kimbrell, kindergarten teacher at CWES, “When a friend spilled their milk, Caleb was the first one there to help clean it up, and when another friend dropped their school supplies, he was the first to help pick them up.”

First Week at St. Michael

St. Michael Catholic Preschool and Kindergarten were very excited in welcoming their students for the first week of school.

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Autauga County Schools Meet the Teacher

Teachers across all 13 campuses returned to the classroom in Auburn City Schools in preparation for the first day of school on Tuesday, August 10! With more than 9,000 students expected this year, Meet the Teacher and Open House Events offered many families the opportunity to meet teachers, deliver school supplies, gather information, and learn their student’s schedules.

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Athletic Director at Auburn City Schools Earns Athletic Administrator Certification

The National Interscholastic Athletic Administrators Association (NIAAA) is pleased to announce that Dan Norton, Athletic Director at Auburn City Schools, has been recognized by the NIAAA as a Certified Athletic Administrator. To earn this distinction, Dan has demonstrated the highest level of knowledge and expertise in the field of interscholastic athletic administration. The voluntary certification process included a thorough evaluation of the candidate's educational background, experience, and professional contributions, as well as a rigorous, comprehensive written examination. Coach Norton is one of an elite group of interscholastic athletic administrators nationwide to attain this level of professionalism. The NIAAA is a national professional organization consisting of all 50 state athletic administrator associations and more than 12,000 individual members. It is dedicated to promoting the professional growth of interscholastic athletic administrators and preserving the educational nature of interscholastic athletics and the place of these programs in the secondary school curriculum.

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

Lee-Scott Volleyball

What a great day for the Lee-Scott Academy Varsity Volleyball team at the Glenwood Tournament! The team went 3-0 during the morning to advance to the gold bracket of the tournament. They dropped a hard-fought game against rival Glenwood taking one set of the match and losing by two points in set three. Way to go, Warriors! We are so incredibly proud of you pushing through a long day. Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

Lee-Scott Students Use Beanie Babies for Engineering Activity

Spirit Day at Pick Elementary

Spirit Day at Pick ES was so much fun! Thank you to the AHS Football players, cheerleaders and coaches who came to greet our leaders! It was great to celebrate opening game night with you! 14

Mrs. Parrish’s 5th grade classes at Lee-Scott Academy participated in an engineering process activity building a base to support a TY Beanie Baby with supplies given! www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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New Adventurefuls™ Girl Scout Cookie Joins Lineup for 2022 Season Nationwide

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama (GSSA) and Girl Scouts of the USA (GSUSA) announced that the new Adventurefuls cookie will join the nationwide lineup for the 2022 Girl Scout Cookie season. An indulgent brownie-inspired cookie with caramel-flavored crème and a hint of sea salt, Adventurefuls take cookie lovers on a delicious taste adventure just like Girl Scouts go on their own amazing adventures through the program. Girl Scouts in Southern Alabama and across the United States will offer the Adventurefuls cookie next season alongside favorites like Thin Mints® and Caramel deLites®. Through the Girl Scout Cookie Program, not only do girls become entrepreneurs as they gain hands-on experience running their own small business, but they also earn money to fuel their Girl Scout adventures, which catapult them where they want to go. Also new this year, GSUSA recently announced new Cookie Business badges that help girls think like entrepreneurs as they run their own cookie businesses and incorporate online sales via the Smart Cookies platform. The badges progress from goal setting and effective sales-pitching in person and online to using market research, creating business plans, and implementing digital marketing campaigns. Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama kicks off cookie season on January 2, 2022. Visit www.girlscoutcookies.org to sign up to be notified as soon as Adventurefuls and other Girl Scout Cookies are on sale. Find your adventure at Girl Scouts by joining or volunteering at https://www.girlscoutssa.org/en/about-girl-scouts/join.html.

Drake Principal Honored as Outstanding Administrator

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J.F. Drake Middle School Principal, Sarah Armstrong, was honored as an Outstanding Administrator during Auburn University’s College of Education 40th Annual Awards Recognition Ceremony recently! A native of Andalusia, Mrs. Armstrong earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Elementary Education from Auburn University in 2001 and her Master of Education in Educational Leadership in 2003. Sarah began her professional career with Auburn City Schools in 2001 as a sixth-grade teacher at Samford Middle School before transferring to J.F. Drake Middle School (DMS) in 2002. Following nine years of teaching sixth-grade math at DMS, she transitioned into an administrative role in 2011 and served six years as an assistant principal at Drake before becoming the school’s principal in 2016. Mrs. Armstrong is passionate about middle school education, and in November of last year, was named the 2020 District 4 Principal of the Year by the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools and the Alabama Association of Middle and Secondary Principals. Auburn City Schools is proud of Sarah Armstrong for receiving this recognition and being an exemplary leader for J.F Drake Middle School.

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Autauga County Schools

First Week of School at Trinity Christian School in the Books!

Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love Him and keep His commandments, to a thousand generations. Deuteronomy 7:9

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First Day at Lee-Scott

Lee-Scott Academy PK4 is all smiles on the “First Day of School!” We are so excited to have these Little Warriors on our campus and to invest in their lives as they begin their educational journey.

Send school news to: Kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com.

Trinity Christian Welcomes New Staff

Trinity Christian School is pleased to welcome 6 new staff members into the TCS family. What a blessing they will be to our school community! As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace. 1 Peter 4:10

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First Day of School at Trinity!

May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Romans 15:5-6

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Feed the Need Campaign

Recently, The United Way of Lee County, Inc. hosted the 2022 campaign kick-off with the inaugural “Feed the Need” event at the Food Bank of East Alabama. More than 120 community volunteers attended to package 20,000 shelfstable meals for local families in need! Each year, Auburn City Schools works with the United Way of Lee County to contribute to campaign efforts. ACS Social Services Coordinator, Joy Stanley, works with the United Way to secure funding for the Dental Clinic, which is now housed at East Samford School and provides dental care to students. ACS Public Relations Coordinator, Daniel Chesser, serves as a Campaign Cabinet ViceChair and Superintendent, Cristen Herring, (not pictured) serves as a Member of the United Way of Lee County Board of Directors. ACS appreciates the work of this important agency and was proud to give back to the community through this event!

with medication and a monthly red blood cell exchange at the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s of Alabama. Our team of over 300 dedicated pediatric healthcare professionals is committed to exceptional patient care and innovative research – and driven to find cures for kids like Arielle.

To learn about Arielle’s story and how you can help, visit ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure

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Autauga County Schools

Auburn City Schools Institute Day

Recently, Auburn City Schools held Institute Day with the theme of being EXTRAordinary! This is an annual event where all teachers, staff, and administrators come together to jumpstart the new school year before classes get underway. A special thank you and round of applause for East Samford’s music teacher, Chris Deason, for performing a rendition of Stevie Wonder’s “If It’s Magic,” before motivational speaker, Kim Geddie took the stage. As a former educator, Kim shared her message of empowerment to our educators and challenged them to be intentional with their efforts in order to bring greater levels of success to all students.

Welcome Back, Pick!

We had so much fun welcoming new friends to our teams at Pick Elementary! It was great to be together outside as a school family and celebrate PICK PRIDE! At Pick Elementary School, 3rd graders and any NEW to PES Leaders, found out which 7 Habit Team they were place on. All of our returning students wore their team colors as we welcomed new team members.

Recognizing Lee-Scott Students

Such a special night at Jud Scott Field as we kicked off the fall sports season recognizing Lee-Scott student-athletes, band members, dance team, and cheerleaders! Also recognized were the state champions from last year - varsity girls soccer, varsity girls track and field, and an individual tennis state champion. Thank you to our athletic department for putting together this event and the opportunity to pray over the season as a Warrior family.

Alabama Teacher of the Year

A special event was held at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts recently. The Alabama State Board of Education officially announced this year’s Alabama Teacher of the Year and Alternate Alabama Teacher of the Year. This event narrowed the list of finalists announced earlier this year to our state’s two most outstanding educators. Mrs. Kimberly Christian Johnson, who teaches at Auburn Junior High School, has been named the 2021-2022 Alabama Teacher of the Year (TOY)! She will serve as the state’s official ambassador for public education and the teaching profession. As an accomplished educator in the Auburn City School System, Mrs. Johnson inspires every student. Her background is in English Language Arts, K-12 Reading, and Communication. Alabama Teacher of the Year, Kim Johnson, is a top educator and a great professional inspiration for teachers statewide. Auburn City Schools celebrates the 2021-2022 ALABAMA TEACHER OF THE YEAR! Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

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PRE-KINDERGARTEN ADMISSIONS EVENT Thursday, October 14th

Lee-Scott Academy

5:30pm

invites you to

LSA Media Center

meet our Pre-K teachers

and learn more about our

"SUPER" Pre-K program. RSVP TO DIRECTOR OF ADMISSIONS, LEIGH SMITH, BY EMAILING LSMITH@LEE-SCOTT.ORG

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Auburn Classical Academy Bug Collectors

Autauga County Schools

Auburn Classical Academy’s fourth grade class collected and pinned their own insect collection. They had so much fun working together on this project, even though some students were not initially fond of bugs!

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Creekside Elementary Book Tasting

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Third graders participated in a book tasting to explore a variety of genres and titles last week. What is your favorite? “Some books are to be tasted, others to be swallowed, and some few are to be chewed and digested.” Frances Bacon

Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

PROVERBS 22:6

Call 334-745-2464 to schedule a tour.

e up

kmarrs@tcsopelika.org | tcsopelika.org A C LAS S I CAL AN D C H R I STIAN ACAD E MY

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Claire Hardin, TCS Class of ’21

Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

Trinity’s First Chapel!

What a blessing to gather as a Trinity family to worship the great I AM! Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me. John 14:6

Growing Plants at Auburn Classical Academy

Auburn Classical Academy’s Kindergarten class is currently studying plant germination. They are enjoying watching plants grow into varying species.

Open House at Trinity!

Sunday, December 12

We are excited and grateful to be back together as a Trinity family. Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing. 1 Thessalonians 5:11

TWO PERFORMANCES!

3 p.m. & 7:30 p.m. Fitness at St. Michael

Mrs. Brown’s Kindergarten class at St. Michael Catholic Preschool and Kindergarten are enjoying fitness time inside on a rainy day. Staying physically and mentally healthy!

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Autauga County Schools

A Great First Day of School for Auburn City Schools

More than 9,100 students and 1,180 educators came together for the first day of 20212022 school year. With excitement, we look forward to a successful year of Academics, Arts, and Athletics!

AISA Announces Springwood School as AISA’s President’s Award Winner

It is the distinct honor for Springwood School to announce its recognition from the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) as a Blue Ribbon School and recipient of the President’s Award for 2021. The criteria for winning the AISA President’s Award includes achievement in all areas of school excellence such as: academic achievement, professional development, extra-curricular involvement, school improvement and other activities that celebrate excellence in education. To qualify for the President’s Award, schools must first be recognized with the Blue Ribbon School distinction. There were 77 schools competing for this prestigious honor and Springwood School, as 1 of 4, is the only school in its classification to earn the distinction. This is the 5th time Springwood School has been recognized for its excellence in education and student life. In addition, Springwood School is pleased to accept the 2021 AISA Blue Ribbon Award for its 10th consecutive year. He AISA Blue Ribbon Award recognizes member schools with outstanding academic achievements and co-curricular successes. Educational programs are evaluated and the accomplishments of students and faculty are measured for exceptional outcomes within the state. Head of School, Lowrie McCown, states “To earn this distinction after the year our students have endured speaks to the passion and commitment of our teachers. We are exceptionally pleased that the stellar work our students and faculty have put forth is recognized within our community and indeed throughout the state. Springwood School has a rich heritage of quality academics and winning this award again is a huge encouragement to us all. We are very encouraged by the confidence the AISA continues to show towards our school.”

Lee-Scott Biology

67 A re

Ninth grade Biology students at Lee-Scott Academy are utilizing Pivot Interactive to continue their Introduction to Scientific Experimentation Unit. They are studying the variables that affect the rates at which Brine Shrimp hatch in varying salinity and Ph. Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

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ASMS

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ASMS Informational Meetings

Find out if ASMS is right for you by attending an Informational Meeting near you listed below!! Also, plan to visit our campus during one of our ASMS Days held on Saturday, November 13, or Saturday, December 4. Register now at www.asms.net! ALBERTVILLE Monday, October 11 • 6 PM Albertville Public Library

CULLMAN Thursday, October 7 • 6 PM Wallace State Community College

HUNTSVILLE Tuesday, October 26 • 6 PM University of AL @ Huntsville

MONTEVALLO Tuesday, October 12, 6 • PM Parnell Memorial Library

ENTERPRISE Thursday, October 14 • 6 PM Enterprise Public Library

JASPER Tuesday, October 12 • 6 PM Bevill State Community College

MONTGOMERY Tuesday, October 19, 6 • PM AL. Assoc of School Boards

ANNISTON/OXFORD Tuesday, October 12 • 6 PM Oxford Civic Center

EUFAULA Tuesday, October 19 • 6 PM Wallace Community College

LIVINGSTON Monday, October 25, 6 • PM University of West Alabama

ATMORE/EVERGREEN Thursday, October 28 • 6 PM Reid State Technical College

FLORENCE Thursday, October 21 • 6 PM Florence-Lauderdale Public Library

MOBILE - OPTION 1 Monday, October 4 • 6 PM ASMS Campus MOBILE - OPTION 2 Monday, October 18, 6 • PM ASMS Campus

ALEXANDER CITY Tuesday, October 5 • 6 PM Central Alabama Community College

AUBURN/OPELIKA Monday, October 4 • 6 PM Southern Union State Community College BIRMINGHAM Thursday, October 28 • 6 PM Vestavia Hills Library

5-7

Average ACT Increase While at 67 counties in ASMS Alabama represented

GREENVILLE Tuesday, October 26 • 6 PM Ritz Theatre Reception Room HAMILTON Tuesday, October 26 • 6 PM Bevill State Community College

MONROEVILLE Tuesday, October 19, 6 • PM Coastal AL Community College

SELMA Thursday, October 14 • 6 PM Elkdale Baptist Church THOMASVILLE Monday, October 18 • 6 PM Coastal AL Community College TROY Monday, October 18 • 6 PM Troy University TUSCALOOSA Monday, October 18 • 6 PM University of Alabama

ADMISSIONS All faculty have a Ph.D. or Master’s degree.

100% College Acceptance

162 National Merit Finalists Since 1993

16 Average class size

Over $250 million in merit-based scholarships since 2002

Cognia Stem Certiﬁed

OPEN

Current 9th & 10th Graders Can Apply Free at www.asms.net

23 www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents ALABAMA SCHOOL OF MATH AND SCIENCE • 1255 DAUPHIN STREET • MOBILE, ALABAMA 36604 • 251.441.2100 • WWW.ASMS.NET

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Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

Before becoming a parent, the idea of disciplining children seemed fairly straightforward. It follows logic that if you set limits, use consistency, and respond firmly, but lovingly, children will learn to correct their behavior. As I became a more experienced mother, I quickly learned that traditional methods of discipline, such as time outs, do not work with every child, every time. Thinking outside of the traditional methods of discipline and trying new and creative consequences may improve behavior. Here are some ideas:

1) Buy it back - Toys left on the floor

after the designated pickup time will be confiscated by a parent. Children will be allowed to buy back each item for $1. (www.notconsumed.com) If the children are not earning an allowance, they may do something extra around the house to earn the item back.

2) Practice makes perfect - When

chores aren’t done to the parent’s standards, have kids “practice” doing it over and over again until they become an expert. (www.imom.com)

3) Silly faces - “If siblings were fight-

ing, they had to make five faces at each

other. They would end up laughing and forget what they were fighting about to begin with,” says Marianne Lincoln, mom of five.

4) Team spirit - Siblings who fight can

also be assigned projects or chores to work on as a team. By the end of the day, they will have learned to work together.

5) Open door policy - If your teen

continues to slam the bedroom door when angry, take away the privilege of privacy and remove the door for a week.

6) Donations - If your kids consistently

leave clothing on the floor, collect it for donation to a local charity. If they decide they aren’t ready to donate it yet, have them pay you what it would cost them to buy it from a thrift store. (www.parenting.com)

7) Safety first - It is not safe to drive

when people are shouting and making a commotion in the car. If the kids are too rowdy, pull the car over and wait silently until they are quiet.

8) Take time - If your child is dawdling

and makes everyone late, have them sit out of the fun when you arrive for the same amount of time they wasted at home.

9) Early to bed - If the child has a bad

attitude and you suspect it’s because they are not getting enough sleep, move up bedtime by 5 minutes each time you need to remind them to improve their behavior.

10) Kid’s choice - When children misbehave, try allowing them to choose their own consequence. This method gives them control over their fate, teaches them to think about their actions in the future, and makes imposing the consequence easier. 11) Stand alone - If the child will not stop tipping his chair at dinner, simply take the chair away and have him stand while he eats. (www.notconsumed.com)

12) Teach respect - “I have a friend that has her children wash the other’s feet if they are being disrespectful to each other,” says Shannon, mom of three.

With some patience, a sense of humor, and some creativity, parents can use the art of creative consequences to teach their children in a fresh and memorable way that will have lasting results. AOP Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer with work published in parenting publications through the U.S.

2021-22 Academic Year Programs

STEM Preschool Program auburndayschool.com 1199 South Donahue Drive, Suite E, Auburn, AL 36832

(334) 209-0460

(8:00-11:30 a.m.)

STEM PLAY Program NEW!

(11:30 a.m. -3:00 p.m.) 2-day, 3-day and 5-day programs available, M-F, Ages 2-5 25

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Should You Read Your Kid’s Texts? You’re sitting there minding your own business when a nearby phone buzzes. U up?, it says, beckoning you closer. Only, it’s not your phone—it’s your kid’s. Do you pick it up? Do you “accidentally” swipe the screen for a closer look? If you’ve made up your mind—yes, you read your kid’s texts, or no, you don’t—more power to you! But if the question prompts a cascade of conflicting emotions, self-serving justifications, and guilt, we can help. Like every other aspect of raising kids in the digital age, the answer is complicated. (And if your kid is “BC”—before cellphones—use this as a chance to prep for the next phase.)

Should I read my kid’s texts?

Reading your kid’s texts is part of responsible parenting. But there’s only one scenario (described below) where we think it’s okay to do it without telling your kid. Most kids view their phones as their personal property, and it can become a proxy for their blossoming independence. So don’t sneak. Maintaining trust—especially in the vital years leading up to the teens—is critical to a healthy relationship (and it goes both ways). Your kids may not like it, but they’ll respect you for being honest. They’ll also understand your point of view better if you explain why you want to see what’s on their phone: It helps to keep them safe. Since so much of kids’ lives happens on devices, we need to keep tabs on whether their relationships are healthy, whether the content they’re seeing is age-appropriate, and even when they’re using their phones (such as when they’re supposed to be sleeping or in school). If you’ve already established the routine of spot checks, your kid should be expecting them. If not, make it clear it’s for their safety and that keeping them safe is part of your job. It reinforces your media rules. How can you tell they’re following your rules if you can’t see the evidence? You need to make sure they’re texting with people they know and that their relationships and activities are Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

mostly positive. Tell your kid what you want to peek at and what you’re looking for. A few examples: • Texts show you whom they’re talking to and at what times. They’ll also provide a sense of whether the interactions are mostly beneficial. • Apps show you their online activities: what they’re reading, playing, listening to, and sharing. • Settings, including the ones on the phone and in individual apps, show you how they’re protecting their privacy, whether they have location services on or off, and even how much time they’re spending in their apps.

It lets you know when they’re ready for more responsibility. The better they manage their online lives, the more you can loosen the reins. If they’re following your rules, such as asking for permission before downloading apps, not hacking your parental controls, and overall conducting themselves responsibly, the spot checks can become less frequent—and maybe you can ease up on other restrictions they’ve proven they can handle.

What are the downsides of reading my kid’s texts?

It’s just one piece of the puzzle. As much as we’ve been told that our kids are living online, they also very much live in the real world. The contents of their phones will give you some clues—but they could be misleading, taken out of context, or misunderstood. Yes, it can be hard to get your tween talking sometimes, but keep making the effort. An effective way to engage them is by asking what their friends are playing 26

or doing on social media, instead of asking them directly about themselves. You’re going to discover stuff you won’t like … and need to figure out what to do about it. You’ll have to determine for yourself what constitutes typical tween stuff (swear words, cringey ideas, exploration of mature content) and what may be signs of deeper issues (inappropriate photos, hate speech, risky apps, troubling search terms such as “suicide” and “drugs”). Pick your battles: Use the minor issues as an opportunity to discuss your values, and give consequences for serious infractions. If you’re worried about something, do a more in-depth check of your kid’s well-being in person (we recommend the HEADSS assessment). If your kid’s having a bumpy time or hiding stuff, you can use a phone-monitoring app such as Bark or other parental control tools to receive notifications of alert words and off-limits activities.

You may invade someone else’s privacy. Sure, you have the right to keep tabs on your own kid, but digging around on their phone will inevitably uncover something about their friends. Knowing private information can put you in a really awkward spot. Use your best judgment: If you think anyone is unsafe, you should do what you can to protect them. But if it’s just something you wish you could “unsee,” keep it to yourself.

A word about sneaking The only situation that warrants spying is if you suspect something is seriously wrong. When your Spidey sense kicks in and you notice any signs of behavior change, declining grades, poor sleep, major hostility, withdrawal, or secrecy, you have a solid reason to check the phone without your kid knowing. And if you don’t find anything? Consider coming clean. Your kid may be upset at first, but if you use it as a chance to discuss what’s going on with them and how you might help them feel better—they’ll most likely forgive you. www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

Halloween means costumes, pumpkin carving, and trick-ortreating. Traditions create lasting memories and something to look forward to each year. Halloween is a perfect time to start some new traditions with your kids. Try some of these ideas.

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Ready Set Decorate

Before you can go trick-or-treating, everyone will need a costume. Have some fun and create coordinating costumes for the whole family or give your child permission to make their own costume with things around the house. Since the kids will need something to collect all that candy in, try decorating your own bucket, bag, or pillowcase for trick-or-treating. Kids could use the same one in the future and enjoy looking back on what they created when they were younger or make a new one each year. Prepare for trick-or-treaters by setting up a spooky atmosphere. Get the kids involved in decorating both the in and outside of the house before Halloween. Make a scarecrow, change the lightbulbs to purple or orange, and hang up homemade or store bought decorations near your door.

Pumpkin time

Pumpkins are a symbol of Halloween and fall, but before buy your pumpkins from the store, try visiting a local pumpkin patch. Many will have apple cider, fall treats, corn mazes, hayrides, a nice variety of pumpkin styles and sizes, and more. Once you have your pumpkins picked out and it is time to do the carving, make things more interesting by coming up with an original theme each year. Some ideas may include sports, cartoon characters, animals, words, or traditional spooky faces. Many ideas and templates can be found online to get you started.

Fun and games

Play Halloween themed music while you carve your pumpkins, bob for apples, and create some holiday-themed treats such as mummy hot dogs, witch finger pretzels, pumpkin shaped pizza, or caramel apples. Try using squash or small pumpkins to bowl, use toilet paper to make friends and family into mummies, or play pin the hat on the witch. Whether you invite friends over for a party or add some fun to your family time, your kids are sure to remember the extra effort you added to make the holiday special.

A spooky story

Kids love a spooky story. Parents can choose age-appropriate movies or books to get their kids in the mood for Halloween. Make up your own stories and share them by candlelight. You can host a spooky movie sleepover for your family or allow kids to invite a few friends over to celebrate.

Give back

Parents can use the holiday as an opportunity to give back to the community. Try participating in a trunk or treat in the area. Each participant decorates the trunk of their car and hands out candy to families who attend. You could also do a “trick-or-treat for hunger” on or around Halloween. Go door to door and ask for non-perishable food donations to give to a local food pantry. Many families also participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project by offering allergen-free treats or small toys so that kids with food allergies can safely participate in Halloween activities. Visit www. foodallergy.org for more information on the Teal Pumpkin Project. Family traditions are easy to start and worthwhile to continue. As your children grow, they may not remember everything you hope they will, but the traditions that you return to, year after year, will create lasting memories that they will treasure for years to come. AOP

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer with work published in parenting publications through the U.S.

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Fall Farms Bar-W Farm ad on page 27

891 Lee Road 395 Auburn, Al 36830 Scheduling visits to the Pumpkin Patch in October. Please call and plan your farm visit and tractor ride today, plus school field trips, daycare fun and church outings. 334-887-3631 and 334-444-0497 www.barwrvpark.com/farm.htm

Choctafaula Pumpkin Patch ad on page 8

929 Lee Road 14 Auburn, Al 36830 Open Saturdays 10:00am-4:00pm and Sundays 12:00-4:00pm in October. Fall attractions include animal attractions, pumpkin patch, pony rides, corn crib, haybale maze, fun farm photo areas and petting zoo. Have a hands-on animal encounter with bison, camels, zebras, wildebeest, and our other farm animals. Amenities: gourmet cafe, adult refreshments, children’s playground area, family games and activities, face painting and corn hole. Available week days for private events, corporate events, and educational school field trips. Please call our office to schedule. 334-209-1777 www.visitchoctafaula.com

Jack-O-Lantern Lane at The Oaks ad on Back Cover

18151 Veterans’ Memorial Parkway LaFayette, AL 36862 Pumpkins, pumpkin patch-pick in the field, tractor-pulled hay rides, wagon rides, petting zoo, homemade ice cream, inflatable park, Thomas-the-Train rides, gem mining, gift shop, snacks and refreshment stand, face painting, and more. $10 hayride and pumpkin pick. Open September 25- October 30. Saturday 9:00am6:00pm; Sunday 11:00am-6:00pm. Also available by reservation Monday-Friday for school, church, daycare field trips and more. New this Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

Year! Trunk-or-Treat will be held on October 30 from 4:00-6:00pm. 334-864-0713 www.jackolanternlane.com

Sleepy Hollow Haunted Farm ad on page 8

929 Lee County Road 14 Auburn, AL 36830 Friday and Saturdays in October. The farm features a clown cabin, Rip-Ride haunted hayride and murder maze. A free petting zoo is available nightly for family enjoyment. Tickets and additional information are available online. 334-750-2591 www.sleepyhollowauburn.com

The Red Oak Farm ad on page 15

6268 County Road 83 LaFayette, Al 36862 Saturdays 10-6 and Sundays 1-6 . Corn Maze and Fall Fun! Come out to The Red Oak Farm this fall to explore our large corn maze, take a hayride around the farm, or experience some of our many family fun activities. 334-750-0894 www.theredoakfarm.com

Backyard Orchards

6585 Hwy 431 North Eufaula, AL 36027 U-Pick It Farm with fresh fruits, veggies, pumpkins! 334-370-6490 www.backyardorchards.com

Corn Dodgers Farm

168 Sweetwater Drive Headland, AL 36345 Corn field maze, pumpkin barn, cow train ride, corn cannon, pony rides, corn box, sunflower path, hay rides, pipe maze, and more. 334-726-1485 www.corndodgersfarm.com

Cotton Pickin’ Pumpkin Patch

11546 Lee Road 54 Auburn, AL 36830 Saturdays in October; 10:00am-6:00pm. Open during the week for field trips. Hayrides, pick a pumpkin/cotton, corn maze, corn crib, pony rides, country store and more. 334-321-7946 www.lazenbyfarm.com

Farmer in the Dell Pumpkin Patch Lee County Road 61 Auburn, AL 36830 Located 6 miles west of Toomer’s Corner off

of Hwy 14 near Loachapoka School. Pumpkin patch-pick in the field, pumpkin patch- already gathered from the field, corn maze, child-sized hay bale maze, tractor-pulled hay rides and more. 334-750-3792 www.auburnpumpkinpatch.com

Paradise Pumpkin Patch

910 County Road 79 Eufaula, AL 36027 Corn maze, pumpkin patch, sunflower and cotton fields, giant inflatable park, petting zoo, playground, cow train, hay rides, pony rides, covered wagon rides pulled by a team of mules, giant corn box and hay bale mazes, concessions, and gift shop. October 2- 31, Saturdays 9:00am-6:00pm, Sundays 11:00am-6:00pm. Special event dates and field trips available Monday-Friday. Teacher Day- October 4. All teachers with school ID are free! Free Paradise for Special Children- October 4, 8am-3pm. Free field trip for special needs children. Home School Day- October 11, 8am-3pm. 334-695-2258 www.paradisepumpkinpatch.com

Pumpkin Junction at Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum

1919 9th Street Calera, AL 35040 October Saturday and Sunday. Gather up the entire family and board the Calera and Shelby Railroad for a short ride to Pumpkin Junction. A destination for family fun, food vendors and more! 205-757-8383 info@hodrrm.org www.hodrrm.org

The Pumpkin Patch at Barber Berry Farm

2362 Alabama River Pkwy Millbrook, AL 36054 Weekends in October. Pick your own pesticidefree fruit and veggies. 334-332-4306 BBFpumpkinpatch@yahoo.com www.barberberryfarm.com

Local Events City of Auburn Annual Downtown Trick-or-Treat ad on page 11

425 Perry Street Auburn, AL 36830 October 31, 6:00-8:00pm. Free to the public. Ages 12 years and younger (Parents must accompany

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children at this event.) Bring your monsters, rock stars, princesses, and clowns to the best party in town. Join us in this excellent alternative to door-to-door trick-or-treating. Downtown “Monster Merchants” will provide treats for the children and delightful sounds from our “special” entertainment will fill the night air. Also, don’t miss out on your chance to win the “Best Costume” contest and bring your favorite four-legged friends and enter them for a chance to win the Best Pet Costume Contest! 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org

City of Opelika Parks and Recreation ad on page 3

1001 Andrews Road Opelika, AL 36801 Fall Festival & Children’s Carnival- W. James Samford, Jr. Soccer Complex Sportsplex. October 28, 5:30-8:30pm. Children 12 and under invited. Safe alternative to Trick or Treating. Children wear costumes and bring your treat bags. Come for hayrides, prizes, games, rides and entertainment, inflatable slides, mascots, special booths and exciting events. The Great Pumpkin SplashOctober 22. 6:00-8:00pm. $4. Ages 6-12yrs. Pick your pumpkin from the pool! Kids enjoy harvest relay races, pumpkin roll, prizes and more! Tour De Fright-October 29, 6:00-8:00pm. Bicyclers

beware! Children 12 and under and their parents are invited to take a ride on the haunted walking trail. The Eerie Express and Not So Spooky Train Ride-October 9, 6:00-8:00pm. Join us for a spooky family friendly night at Monkey Park. This is a free event. 334-705-5560 www.opelikasportsplex.com

Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve & Nature Center ad on page 31

2222 North College Street Auburn, AL 36830 Halloween Enchanted Forest-October 22-23, 5:307:30 pm; Enjoy a fun family-friendly Halloween event hiking the Kreher Preserve trails and visiting some costumed characters who will entertain you on how they “trick or treat” other animals in the forest. Children are invited to wear their costumes and enjoy some early Halloween fun! Pumpkin bowling, campfire, fortune telling and face painting will be available! S’mores kits and drinks will be available for purchase. Registration is required. Nature Art Series: Tangling Pumpkins- October 16. Check online for more details. 334-844-8091 www.auburn.edu/preserve

Haunted Auburn Walking Tour

102 South College Street Auburn, AL 36830 Every Friday and Saturday in October. Join your

hosts Stoker and Poe as they lead you around to Auburns most haunted locations. Hear the tales, urban ledgens, first hand accounts and true life facts about these locations. Two tours each night first at 6pm the other at 8pm weather permitting. Dress accordingly. Fun for all (may not be suitable for children under 12). Meet at the 2 Eagles by the Toomer Oaks. Admission is FREE!! 334-444-1422

Auburn Public Library

749 East Thatch Ave Auburn, AL 36830 Goulish Gala- 5:30 p.m. Spooky Stories with Mrs. Samantha; 5:50 p.m. Costume Parade and Contest. Dress up in your costumes and bring the whole family to the Auburn Public Library for a ghoulishly grand time! Attendees will receive a treat bag with crafts & candy and enjoy spooky stories with Mrs. Samantha. Immediately following the stories, attendees may register for the Costume Parade and Contest! Prizes will be awarded for the best costume in four categories: infant-5 years, 6-11 years, 12 years & up, and group/family. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Great Pumpkin Carve

Graves Drive Auburn University, AL 36849 Auburn University School of Architecture and Design, Dudley Court, Campus. October 29, 9:00am-9:00pm. Come out and watch the students carve amazing designs into pumpkins. As night falls, see the pumpkins

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Al turn into glowing jack-o-lanterns! Dress the kids up for a costume contest, games, and more! 334-844-4524 cadc.communications@auburn.edu cadc.auburn.edu

Opelika Songwriter’s Festival

Downtown Opelika Opelika, Al 36801 October 15-17. Over 40 singer songwriters

Arts & Crafts Festivals Lee County Fair

2316-2358 Lafayette Pkwy Opelika, AL 36801 Sept 28-October 2. Livestock shows, contests, exhibits, pageants, rides and much more. 334-742-0410 hjsadler@charter.net

and crafts, great food, entertainment, Kid-Fest children’s activities, sports programs, antique car show and much more. A Native American Artifact show is our newest showcase. 256-329-6736 www.alexandercityal.gov/parks-rec/ page/oktoberfest

43st Annual Alabama Tale Tellin’ Festival

3 Church Street Selma, AL 36701 October 14. The performers this year are Andy Irwin, Rollin’ in the Hay, Art show, StreetFest, Ballet, Market Day, Pilgrimage and more! 334-412-8052 www.artsrevive.com

49th Annual National Shrimp Festival

Hwy 59 and Beach Blvd Gulf Shores, AL 36542 October 7-10. Over 300 vendors that offer fine art, arts and crafts, a retail marketplace and of course, SHRIMP! 251-968-7200 www.myshrimpfest. com

50th Annual Harvest Day Festival

Downtown Square, Grove St, Headland, AL 36345 October 8-9. 9am-4pm. Arts and crafts, children’s games and rides, wonderful food and entertainment. 334-693-3303 www.headlandal.com

performing at the 2nd Annual Opelika Songwriters Festival! Come experience Historic Opelika, Alabama! A festival pass gets you access to all the venues throughout Downtown Opelika, Alabama for each day that you have a valid ticket. Come enjoy world class songwriters as we transform these multiple venues into listening rooms! Friday music begins at 5pm, Saturday music begins at 11am,Sunday Brunch (VIP Ticket required) begins at 10:30am, Sunday music (other venues) begins at 11am. The Opelika Songwriters Festival is a co-production of The Sound Wall and The Arts Association of East Alabama. www.opelikasongwritersfestival.com

Pine Hill Cemetery Tour

Armstrong Street Auburn, Al 36830 October 14-15, 6:30-8:30pm. Characters come alive two nights in October at Auburn’s oldest and most historic cemetery! Join your neighbors at this biennial event where cemetery “residents” tell the story of early Auburn. Hear from founder Judge John Harper and others and see where five university presidents rest. This is a family-friendly walking tour through this historic cemetery, lit with candles, where you can learn interesting facts about Auburn. Tickets are $10 at the gate /$5 for students. Park at East Samford School to walk or trolley to the cemetery. Find us on Facebook or at www.auburnheritageassoc.org. www.auburnheritageassoc.org

Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

29th Annual Alabama Cotton Festival 145 Main Street Eclectic, AL 36024 October 9. 8:00am-2:00pm. Eclectic, Al. ; Arts and crafts, flea market items, concession- booth spaces are free. 5K Cotton Run, Alabama Rook Tournament, local talent contest, children’s activities, antique cars and tractors, performances and more. 334-541-3581 heather.townofeclectic@gmail.com www.townofeclectic.com

30th Annual Christmas Made in the South

Columbus Convention & Trade Center, 801 Front Avenue Columbus, GA 31901 October 29-30. Amazing craftspeople, outstanding art, unique gourmet food, and diverse entertainment to whet and satisfy every demanding appetite. Handmade, one-of-a-kind designs populate the booths that fill the festival: silk wearables to fabric bags, glass jewelry to close-up photography of nature’s funniest and fiercest creatures all await and more!

58th Annual Bluff Park Show

517 Cloudland Drive Hoover, AL 35226 October 2. 9:00am-5:00pm. Sponsored by the Bluff Park Art Association and includes more than 130 local and national artists displaying fine art for sale. Bring the kids to enjoy some hands on art fun. Free admission, parking and shuttles. www.bluffparkartassociation.org

67th Annual Cullman County Fair

1501 Sportsman Lake Rd NW, Cullman, AL 35055 October 7-16. Thrilling rides, amazing exhibits, and the best in local and regional entertainment. 256-734-0661 www.cullmanfair.org

Alabama Gourd Festival

510 Fifth Street S. W. Cullman, AL 35055 October 15-16. ‘Old MacDonald’s Gourd Farm’. Annual festival features gourd arts and crafts, such as birdhouses, musical instruments and decorated gourds. Dulcimer band performs.

www.madeinthesouthshows.com

gourdzilla@aol.com www.alabamagourdsociety.org

41st Annual Oktoberfest Arts & Craft Show

Alabama National Fair

Charles E. Bailey, Sportsplex, 1685 Arena Road Alexander City, AL 35010 October 9. Day-long celebration features local arts

Garret Coliseum, 1555 Federal Drive Montgomery, AL 36107 October 8-17. Midway rides, main stage entertainment, food, information and commercial booths,

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Alexander City Fall Festival

Russell Crossroads, 17 Russell Farms Road Alexander City, AL 35010 October 30. Join friends and neighbors for pumpkin painting, a costume contest, wagon rides and more, courtesy of Russell Lands on Lake Martin. www.russelllandsonlakemartin.com

Boll Weevil Festival

Enterprise , AL 36330 October 16. Arts and crafts vendors, variety of music, food, children’s costume contest and activities, farmers market, car show, family entertainment. www.enterprisedowntown.org

Christmas Village Festival

BJCC, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr Blvd North Birmingham, AL 35203 November 3-7. The largest indoor arts, crafts, and gifts show in the south, this show draws exhibitors from over 30 states with products like clothing, jewelry, food, decorations and much, much more. www.christmasvillagefestival.com

Cotton Pickin’ County Fair

18830 Hwy 85 Gay, GA 30218 October 2-3. Return to 1910 where the Farmhouse, the Cotton Gin, and the Cotton Warehouse form a unique backdrop for a great day of 21st century fun. Amidst skilled artisans and antique specialists, the Fair shares remnants of farm life in days gone by. New talent keeps the festival fresh and interesting while returning artists welcome loyal customers seeking to add to individual collections. 706-538-6814 www.cpfair.org

Eufaula Fest 2021

333 East Broad Street Eufaula, AL 36027 October 9-10. Fine arts and handmade crafts, children’s activities, live entertainment and more. 334-687-6664 www.eufaulachamber.com

Fall Farm Day & Festival at Landmark Park in Dothan

430 Landmark Drive Dothan, AL 36303 October 16. Learn how peanuts were harvested in the Wiregrass a half-century ago. Enjoy the sights, sounds and smells of cane grinding, syrup making, butter churning, basket weaving, soap making and other traditional farm activities. Plus, food, music and antique tractors and farm equipment. 334-794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Harvest Hoe Down

3636 Whitehouse Pkwy Warm Springs, GA 31830 October 2. Enjoy this fall celebration with arts, crafts, good food, entertainment and more! www.festivalnet.com/24562/Warm-Springs-Georgia/ Festivals/Harvest-Hoe-Down

Hummingbird Festival

400 East Main Street Hogansville, GA 30230 October 16-17. Main Street will be bustling with food, crafts, antiques, music, local artists, open storefronts, rides, and activities for the whole family. 706-333-2520 www.hummingbirdfestival.com

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Montgomery Jr. League’s Holiday Market

220 Hall Street Montgomery, AL 36104 October 6-9. Start the Winter Holiday Season off right with shopping the Jr. League’s Market. Each year, holiday themed booths set up for a great, one-stop-shop for all your Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years items. holidaymarketmerchants@gmail.com www.jlmontgomery.com

National Peanut Festival

5622 U.S. Highway 231 South Dothan, AL 36301 November 5-14. Headliner Randy Houser. Music from Pharmalee and Gabby Barrett. Livestock exhibits, competitions, demolition derby, crafts, food preservation, recipe contests, entertainment, carnival rides, sea lion show, and much more! 334-793-4323 www.nationalpeanutfestival.com

Ole Chipley Town Fair

Pine Mountain, GA 31822 September 25. Join the crowd of Pine Mountain and enjoy local crafts, quilting, pottery, metalwork, woodwork, food and entertainment. taramhall1@gmail.com www.pinemountain.org

Peanut Butter Festival

475 Dickert Circle Brundidge, AL 36010 October 30. A harvest and heritage celebration honoring the town’s proud heritage in the peanut

butter industry. The free for all festival features a 5-K Peanut Butter Run, non-stop entertainment, contests, games, exhibits, recipe contest, Peanut Butter Kids Contest and the Nutter Butter Parade and food galore including everything peanut butter. 334-344-9601 www.piddle.org

Pioneer Day

6500 Stage Road Loachapoka, AL 36865 October 23. The same great sausage, biscuits, syrup, music, mules, arts, crafts, etc. that has been offered for the last 40 years will continue to be the same. The Plantation Heirs will sing at noon. Creek Indians demonstrations in heritage crafts and good food. Many vendors are returning along with new vendors. 334-887-3007 www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org

Pioneer Days at Pioneer Museum of Alabama

248 Highway 231 North Troy, AL 36081 October 8-9. Horse and wagon rides, trips on the Pioneer Express, Native American camps with demonstrations of candle making, spinning, weaving, quilt making, blacksmithing, drum, dance, etc. Friday is School Day. 334- 566-3597 www.pioneer-museum.org

Riverwalk Wine Festival

335 Coosa Street Montgomery, AL 36104 October 8: Includes wine tasting from 10 different

distributors representing over 100 wineries. 334-625-2100 www.funinmontgomery.com

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Spinners 37th Annual “Pumpkin Patch” Arts & Crafts Show

390 West 6th Street Prattville, AL 36066 October 26-27. Exhibitors of original art and crafts from throughout the southeast will display their wares. Food vendors, live entertainment, games, a coloring contest and many other activities for children and youth. Door prizes will be given at intervals during the show. Other events include The Great Pumpkin Race, a 5K/8K Race and a one mile Run/Walk, a motorcycle show, jack-olantern contest and more. Free admission and free parking. www.spinnersprattville.com

Stone Mountain Park

1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, GA 30083 Annual Pumpkin Festival- September 18-October 31. Play by day as you enjoy family-friendly park attractions and special fall entertainment featuring some of your favorite classic storybook characters! Then, after the sun goes down, you’ll glow by night in a whole new light with the NEW Nighttime Parade and plenty of other NEW not-so-spooky glowing experiences! Highland Games- October 16-17. This year thousands of Scots (even those that wish to be ‘Scot for the Day’) from around the world will don their family tartans and gather to greet old friends and make new ones too. Come

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Great Pumpkin! Open to all 6th 12th graders! 334-887-3782 www.parkwayauburn.org

800-401-2407 www.stonemountainpark.com

The Greater Columbus Fair

Costume Shopping

Columbus Civic Center, 400 4th Street Columbus, GA 31901 October 21-31. Celebrate the beginning of autumn in the Chattahoochee Valley. Food, rides, games, pageant and more!

Check-It-Out!

706-653-4472 www.columbusciviccenter.org

Church Events All Saints Fair

Lakeview Baptist Church, 1600 E Glenn Avenue Auburn, AL 36830 October 28- Safe, family fun alternative to trickor-treating; everyone welcome. Games include train, gladiator joust, gyro, horse and wagon, go fish, soccer kick, ring toss, bowling, inflatables and more! Lots of games, prizes and candy! Come dressed up, but please avoid ghoulish costumes. www.lakeviewbaptist.org

Cornerstone Church Trunk-or-Treat

Cornerstone Church, 2123 Hamilton Road Auburn, AL 36830 TBA Cornerstone Church Truck-or-Treat 334-887-1151 www.cornerstonebuzz.org

Parkway Baptist Church The Great Pumpkin Hunt

766 East University Drive Auburn, AL 36830 October 20. The Great Pumpkin Hunt is a cluedriven scavenger hunt in search of the elusive Great Pumpkin! During these times, we do not think it best overload teenagers in vehicles and drive all over town. So this year’s Pumpkin Hunt will be a walking challenge-driven hunt! Think “The Great Pumpkin Hunt” meets “The Amazing Race.” Students will be challenged to complete a series of tasks and the first team to complete all tasks will be given the final clue that leads them to the

239 North Gay Street Auburn, AL 36830 Halloween costumes and accessories. Also, balloon deliveries, balloon decor, gift baskets, flower arrangements, cake & cookie deliveries, sorority merchandise, and large bulk deliveries. We offer the largest selection of balloons in every shape and size. Check-It-Out has decorated for 100’s of events throughout the year.

334-826-0803 www.check-it-outballoons.com

Kids Clothes Connection

Opelika, AL 36801 Gently used children’s costumes available. www.kidsclothesconnection.com

Party City

2534 Enterprise Drive Opelika, AL 36801 Specializing in all things party! Costumes for all ages, accessories, decorations, and more. 334-745-1568 www.partycity.com

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

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Out of Town Pumpkin at Callaway: Gardens By Day, Glow By Night

4500 Southern Pine Dr Pine Mountain, Ga 31822 September-October 31. Explore gardens by day and watch them glow by night with a brand-new family-friendly festival: Pumpkins at Callaway! As the weather cools, our 2,500-acre gardens transform into a harvest haven with pumpkin sculptures, topiaries, and magnificent mums in brilliant autumnal hues. Stay after dark to watch the grounds come to life with illuminating experiences like an Enchanted Forest, glow-in-the-dark mini golf, and a towering Pumpkin Tree! 844-512-3826 www.callawaygardens.com

Pumpkin Festival at Stone Mountain Park

1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, Ga 30083 September-October 31. Play by day as you enjoy family-friendly park attractions and special fall entertainment featuring some of your favorite classic storybook characters! Then, after the sun goes down, you’ll glow by night in a whole new light with the NEW Nighttime Parade and plenty of other NEW not-so-spooky glowing experiences! From a journey around the mountain aboard a full-size locomotive to an adventurous round of miniature golf, Pumpkin Festival

Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

features attractions everyone will enjoy! Visit website for more info. www.stonemountainpark.com

Tour of Southern Ghosts

Stone Mountain Park, 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, GA 30083 October TBA. Meet professional storytellers spinning their tales of famous (and not-so famous) Southern Ghosts along the lantern-lit paths of the Antebellum Plantation groundsnever too frightening and always appropriate for young children. Each night offers a different cast of six storytellers. 800-401-2407 www.stonemountainpark.com

Boo at the Zoo

Atlanta Zoo, 800 Cherokee Avenue SE Atlanta, GA 30315 October 23-24, 30-31. 9:30am-3:00pm. It’s that time of year when Atlanta’s favorite fun family Halloween festival returns! Sample treats throughout the Zoo, and enjoy the sights, characters and adventures of the whimsical Zoo Boo Town on four magical days with more than 1,500 animals from around the world. Don’t forget your costume! Even the animals join the fun during Boo at the Zoo! Find out when your favorite Zoo residents are getting Halloween surprises. Guests can enjoy spooktacular activities: Enter costume contests, inflatable Corn Maze, Halloween games and crafts, Boogie down to Little Beat, a live party D

and Take pictures with characters such as Wild Thing, Ladybug Girl, Splat the Cat, Zhu Zhu the giant panda, Cricket the frog and more! 404-624-9453 www.zooatlanta.org

Halloween Fairyland

Tannehill State Park, 12632 Confederate Parkway McCalla, AL 35111 October 30. The Tannehill Halloween Festival, a nonscary fun-filled holiday event focused on the campgrounds, annually attracts over 6,000 visitors, most of them children. Begun in 1992, the event features park-sponsored programs during the afternoon and traditional Halloween candy “trick or treat” stops at more than 200 campsites during the evening. Park events include a moon walk, clowns, face painting, pony rides and sand art. A special tradition is the festival’s annual Halloween Festival tee shirt. Campground site decorations and lights are extensive, creative and surreal. 205-477-5711 www.tannehill.org/events

Pope’s Haunted Farm

450 Lee Road 424 Salem, AL 36874 October weekends. Zombie Paintball Safari. Pope’s Haunted Farm has three different events to experience and scare you. The Haunted Barn: Taken, the Haunted Hayride that many have claimed to see the infamous evil specter Jasper, and lastly you can experience the Haunted Forest that’s an unguided tour that includes a graveyard deep in the woods. 706-566-7766 www.popeshayride.com AOP

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Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and DVDs Come from Away

Apple TV+

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

TV-14

A-

B+

B-

When 9/11 grounded airplanes, 17,000 passengers found themselves stranded on the sparsely populated Canadian island of Newfoundland. The hospitality of the islanders inspired the Broadway musical "Come from Away". This movie, a filmed version of the stage show, bursts with kindness, decency, and overwhelming generosity. In the shadow of 9/11’s 20th anniversary, this moving story brings a message of hope for humanity. Photo ©Apple TV+

Firedrake the Silver Dragon

Netflix

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

TV-PG

Firedrake and his entire community of dragons are in danger. A human construction project nearby threatens to expose them to the world, which would be disastrous. Determined to save his community and prove himself, Firedrake sets of to find the mythical Rim of Heaven, the rumored ancestral home of the dragons. But to get there, he'll have to get past Nettlebrand, a giant golden dragon with an appetite for smaller creatures. Poorly written with unformed characters and flat dialogue, this film isn’t saved by its inconsistent animation. Photo ©Netflix

Blood Brothers: Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali

Netflix

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG-13

B-

A-

This timely documentary focuses on a friendship between two of the most iconic men of color in the 20th century - heavyweight champion Muhammed Ali and revolutionary Malcolm X. But the infighting between Malcolm X and Nation of Islam leader Elijah Muhammed threatened to destroy them. Based on a wealth of archival footage, this excellent production gains heart from numerous first person interviews. It’s a great resource for schools or for teens and adults interested in American history. Photo ©Netflix

JJ+E

Netflix

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

TV-14

C-

John John and Elisabeth may live in the same Swedish city, but that's where the similarities end - until they wind up in the same drama program and fall in love. A tired twist on the “wrong side of the tracks” plot, this film is chock full of negative content. The movie glamorizes rebelliousness and criminal behavior and there are scenes of assault and murder. Add in adolescent sexual behavior, drinking, and smoking and this is not a teen-friendly love story. Photo ©Netflix Grades range from: A= absence of content concerns to D= excess of content concerns Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

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Beverly Jennings Katherine Lipscomb Kachadurian REALTOR® Associate Broker 334.444.9727 Associate Broker REALTOR® REALTOR® 706.681.6705 334.740.2020

Adam Littleton REALTOR® 706.987.3312

Amy Littleton Associate Broker REALTOR® 334.524.2019

Imo Holstick REALTOR® 334.740.1659

Sherri Maner REALTOR® 678.628.7648

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Monte Atkins Shannon Bourg Tara Star Cowles CarolAnn Miracle Julie Newman Associate Broker Associate Broker Associate Broker Associate Broker REALTOR® REALTOR® REALTOR® REALTOR® REALTOR® 334.524.3925 334.703.5461 334.444.3679 334.524.7653 334.524.2042

Carol Nolan Debbie Day Smith REALTOR® REALTOR® 334.703.7515 334.740.9429

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Rozi Dover Associate Broker REALTOR® 334.663.0077

Renee Dykes REALTOR® 706.681.3922

Sharron Hill Farrar REALTOR® 334.524.7976

Amanda Gray REALTOR® 334.329.9041

Carrie King Principal Broker REALTOR® 334.329.5055

Katie Brown Brand Identity Manager 334.329.5055

Karen Greene Administrative Assistant 334.329.5055

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FamilyCalendar Friday, September 24 Fall Family Weekend Also Sept. 25 & 26. Auburn invites parents to come to spend a weekend in Auburn with their student and experience a game-day weekend. The game for that weekend is Georgia State and it is the Homecoming Game. www.parentandfamily.auburn.edu Football, Fans and Feathers Southeastern Raptor Center, 1350 Pratt-Carden Drive. Hawks, falcons, eagles, and other birds of prey are free-flown around the amphitheater during hour-long educational program. Tickets are $8 per person, no charge for children age three and under. www.vetmed.auburn.edu/raptor AUsome Amphibians and Reptile Show Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Onehour presentation on amphibians and reptiles found in our state and beyond! Children and adults will enjoy this entertaining, handson program with live animals. Admission is $5/person ($4 for members); children 3 and under are free. preserve@auburn.edu Friday Night Concert Series Uptown Columbus, GA. Jazz, rock, reggae, gospel, and more. A full block along Broadway is shut down for pedestrian use only to ensure enough space for dancing and air guitars. Kids dance stage left and parents dance stage right. All outdoor concerts are FREE and open to all ages. www.alwaysuptown.com Come Home to the Corner Downtown Auburn, every Friday evening before a home football game. Free, for all ages with live music and extended shopping hours downtown. Homecoming Parade and Pep Rally Downtown Auburn. 6:00 PM. The parade will kick-off on Thach Avenue, near Samford Lawn, continues down College Street, Magnolia Avenue, Gay Street and back to the finish at Thach Avenue. Featuring campus and community groups and our favorite tiger, Aubie!

Saturday, September 25 Tavern Fest 2021 Montgomery. Wet Willie featuring Jimmy Hall headline Tavern Fest 2021, a street party in downtown Montgomery on North Hull Street in Old Alabama Town. Lucas Tavern, the oldest building in Montgomery, is the impetus for this family friendly event. www.landmarksfoundation.com

Sunday, September 26 Annual Butterfly Festival Also Sept. 27. Callaway Gardens. Each September, marvel at the Blue Morpho as hundreds of these tropical butterflies fill the Day Butterfly Center with their iridescent-blue splendor. callawaygardens.com

Wednesday, September 29 Dawes with Special Guest Erin Rae The Gogue Performing Arts Amp. Joined by special guest Erin Rae, the West Coast folk-rockers will

Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

perform outdoors at the Amphitheatre at the City of Auburn Lawn and Porch. www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu

Thursday, September 30 Sundown Concert Series Kiesel Park. Join Auburn Parks and Recreation for an evening of music and fun at beautiful Kiesel Park. Bring your lawn chair, blanket, kick back, and enjoy the music. Food concessions will be on-site for purchase along with FREE inflatables. auburnalabama.org/parks Jeff Foxworthy Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. www.centremontgomery.org Paddles at the Plex Pickleball Tournament Also October 1, 2, & 3. Opelika Sportsplex. Pickleball is the fastest-growing sport for seniors and is enjoyed by all. www.auburnpickleball.com

Rocky Brook Rocket Train Rides Also Oct. 3. Municipal Park, Opelika. 2:00-5:00 PM, $1.00 per ride. Reservations are available: Call 334705-5549. Russell County Stampede Rodeo Phenix City. www.facebook.com/RussellCountyStampedeRodeo

Sunday, October 3 In the Garden with Cyndi at KPNC Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. A fun, casual gardening class for adults. This month come to learn who might be visiting your garden and if they are friends or foes. www.facebook.com/aupreserve YellaWood 500 NASCAR Playoffs Weekend Witness the pivotal fifth race in the NASCAR Cup Series’ Playoffs with the YellaWood 500. Denny Hamlin is the defending Champion. Lots of free camping.

Friday, October 1 Friday Night Concert Series See September 24 for details. Ballet and the Beasts Montgomery Zoo. FREE performance presented by the Montgomery Ballet under the stars at the Montgomery Zoo. Picnic blankets, lawn chairs, and coolers are welcome. www.montgomeryzoo.com Jurassic Quest Also October 2 & 3. Renaissance Hotel & Convention Center, Montgomery. The largest and most realistic dinosaur exhibit in North America! 100 life-like dinosaurs, dinosaur themed rides, live dinosaur shows, interactive science and art activities, and much more! www.jurassicquest.com/events/montgomery-al

Saturday, October 2 Johnny Ray Century Bicycle Ride for Parkinson’s Disease The Johnny Ray Century began amid a push for a rail-to-trail between Opelika and Roanoke, a rail line heavily used by the train engineer Johnny Ray. JRC riders will tour the true backroads of rural Lee, Chambers, and Randolph Counties of East Alabama. www.eastalabamacyclingclub.com An Evening with Kenny G Gogue Performing Arts Center. A phenomenally successful instrumentalist whose recordings routinely made the pop, R&B and jazz charts during the 1980s and ’90s, Kenny G‘s sound became a staple on adult contemporary and smooth jazz radio stations. www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu Opelika’s Library Grand Opening 1100 Glenn Avenue, Opelika, 10:30 AM-3:00 PM. Free food, games, prizes and tours of the beautiful new facility! The new library will allow us to offer more programs and collection space in a modern facility. 8th Annual Dadeville Fall Festival Dadeville. Bouncy houses, pony rides, face painter, petting zoo, live music, arts & crafts booths, food vendors, and more. www.dadevillechamber.com

Tuesday, October 5 The Beach Boys Gogue Performing Arts Center. As The Beach Boys mark more than a halfcentury of making music, the group continues to ride the crest of a wave unequaled in America’s musical history. www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu Pilobolus 50th Anniversary The Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. www.eastalabamaarts.org Sportsplex Senior Resource and Health Fair Opelika Sportsplex, 8:00 AM-12:00 noon www.opelika-al.gov

Wednesday, October 6 Ziggy Marley: A Live Tribute Marley is an eight-time Grammy winner, Emmy winner, musician, producer, activist, and humanitarian who has cultivated a legendary career for close to 40 years. www.goguecentertickets. auburn.edu Noon Tunes: Silky Tone Opelika Courthouse Square. 12:00-1:00 PM. www.opelika-al.gov

Thursday, October 7 Sundown Concert Series See Sept. 30 for details.

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Friday, October 8 Friday Night Concert Series See Sept. 24 for details. Come Home to the Corner See Sept. 24 for details. Rob Schneider: I Have Issues Tour Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org

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FamilyCalendar 11th Annual Riverwalk Wine Festival Riverwalk, Montgomery. Held under the Historic Union Station Train Shed. Live music, food vendors and on-site sales (provided through Peppertree Steaks and Wine). www.visitmontgomery.com Fright Night at the Villa Springvilla Park, Opelika. 6:30-8:30 PM. For adults only. Scary movie at the big house. www.opelika-al.gov

Saturday, October 9

Noon Tunes: Mark True Opelika Courthouse Square. 12:00-1:00 PM. www.opelika-al.gov Alice Cooper Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org

Thursday, October 14

Football, Fans and Feathers See Sept. 24 for details. The Eerie Express Municipal Park, Opelika. A spooky train ride and a ‘not-so-scary’ Halloween movie. Train rides $2.00 per person. www.opelika-al.gov Eufaula Fest 2021 Also Oct. 10. Formerly known as Indian Summer Festival, this two-day festival will be located along North Randolph Avenue in the Seth Lore Historic District, and will feature artists, craftsmen, live entertainment, & food vendors. Rocky Brook Rocket Train Rides Also Oct. 10. Municipal Park, Opelika. 2:00-5:00 PM, $1.00 per ride. Reservations are available: Call 334-705-5549.

Sunday, October 10 Jamey Johnson’s Homecoming Concert Riverwalk Stadium, Montgomery. Nikki Mitchell Foundation, a Nashville-based pancreatic cancer nonprofit, will host Jamey Johnson’s Homecoming Concert.

Monday, October 11 Kreher Preserve & Nature Center Fall Camp The KPNC offers fall camps to students in grades 1 through 6 on days when schools are closed. Campers will join the KPNC naturalists outside, exploring our natural world and wildlife communities and discovering new adventures all around us. 8 AM to 3 PM. www.facebook.com/aupreserve

Tuesday, October 12 Family Discovery Hike: Fall Wildflowers Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. 3:30 PM. A monthly guided hike through the forest. Family Discovery Hikes offer excellent opportunities for the entire family to learn about nature and see wildlife up close. Free – donations welcomed. preserve@ auburn.edu

prestidigitation, stories, and fun! libraryevents@auburnalabama.org

Wednesday, October 13

The Not-SoSpooky Magic Show Auburn Public Library. 5:00 PM. Magician & storyteller, Tommy Johns, will delight the audience with not-to-spooky

Sierra Hull Band Gogue Performing Arts Center. A mandolin prodigy, Sierra Hull had already signed to a record label by age 13 and released her debut “Secrets” three years later. The bluegrass virtuoso’s latest album, 2016’s “Weighted Mind,” received a Grammy Award nomination for Best Folk Album. www. goguecentertickets.auburn.edu Sundown Concert Series See Sept. 30 for details. Orchestra at The Oaks: Auburn Community Orchestra Concert Toomer’s Corner. 6 PM. At this oudoor concert, the Auburn Community Orchestra will be performing classical favorites on the Tiger’s Paw at Toomer’s Corner. For more information, please contact the JDCAC at (334) 501-2963. Auburn Food & Wine Festival Benefit Dinners Also Oct. 15. The benefit dinners will have seven restaurants and/or chefs are participating. There are 4 locations available on Thursday night and 3 locations on Friday night. The Chef will guide guests through the dinner experience, educating them on each course. www.facebook.com/aufoodandwine Pine Hill Cemetery Lantern Tour Also Oct. 15. Pine Hill Cemetery, Auburn. The Auburn Heritage Association is hosting this familyfriendly walking tour through this historic cemetery, lit with candles. 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Parking available at East Samford School and a shuttle will be available for transportation to the cemetery located on Armstrong Street. Tickets are $10, available at the gate. www.auburnheritageassoc.org

Friday, October 15 Friday Night Concert Series See Sept. 24 for details. Opelika Songwriter’s Festival Also October 16 & 17. Multiple venues in Historic Downtown Opelika are transformed into listening rooms and host over 40 singer-songwriters. A festival pass gets fans access to every venue. Passes are available for purchase online. Volunteers are also needed. www.opelikasongwritersfestival.com

Saturday, October 16 Columbus Symphony Orchestra: Vivaldi in Venice RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. www.rivercenter.org Alabama Classic Bass Tournament The Alabama Classic Bass Tournament is held

annually on Lake Eufaula to benefit SOAR charities and Darby’s Warrior Support. For more information, go to www.alclassic.com. Nature Art Series: Tangling Pumpkins Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. 1:00-3:00 PM. Local artist Heather Jackson teams up with the KPNC to bring you The KPNC Nature Art Series (https:// aub.ie/natureart). Join us each month for a naturethemed art class appropriate for all ages! www.facebook.com/aupreserve Fall Boogie Music and Arts Festival Standard Deluxe hosts the 9th annual Fall Boogie music and arts festival. Gates open at 11 a.m. and the show begins at 12 p.m. Tickets start at $60, 3-day passes available for Pre-Night to Fall Boogie, Fall Boogie, and The Boogie Brunch. For information, visit: http://standarddeluxe.com/shop/fallboogie9. Stone Mountain Highland Games Also Oct. 17. Stone Mountain Park, Ga. Enjoy the Highland Athletic events, Highland Dancing, Piping & Drumming, Scottish Harping. Participate in the Scottish Country Dancing demonstrations, Kirking of the Tartans, and the Parade of Tartans. Shop colorful Scottish shops and learn at information tents. www.stonemountainpark.com Rocky Brook Rocket Train Rides Also Oct. 17. Municipal Park, Opelika. 2:00-5:00 PM, $1.00 per ride. Reservations are available, call 334-705-5549.

Sunday, October 17 Rising Gardens Community Market Auburn Montessori School, 231 East Drake Ave. 2:00-5:00 PM. Shop for fresh local organic produce and artisan goods by community vendors year-round on the 3rd Sunday of every month from 2 - 5 PM. Enjoy live music, participate in drum circles, support local vendors and experience community!

Monday, October 18 Boz Scaggs Gogue Performing Arts Center. Join us and enjoy a night with rock icon Box Scaggs! www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu Kreher Preserve & Nature Center Fall Camp See Oct. 11 for details.

Tuesday, October 19 Melissa Etheridge Gogue Performing Arts Center. Melissa Etheridge stormed onto the American rock scene in 1988 with the release of her critically acclaimed self-titled debut album. www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu

Wednesday, October 20 Noon Tunes: Jessie Lynn Opelika Courthouse Square. 12:00-1:00 PM. www.opelika-al.gov Posh Pumpkins Auburn Public Library. 4 PM. Come to the library to create your very own Posh Pumpkin using the supplies provided, without using a carving knife! Pumpkins available for the first 200 guests. You are welcome to bring your own pumpkin and use the supplies provided. libraryevents@ auburnalabama.org.

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FamilyCalendar Thursday, October 21 Sundown Concert Series Kiesel Park, Auburn. 5:30 PM. Bring your lawn chair, blanket and enjoy the music. Food concessions will be on-site for purchase along with FREE inflatables. www.auburnalabama.org/parks Third Thursday Poetry Series Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. The Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities is hosting a Third Thursday Poetry Series at the Jule. 6:30 p.m.

Friday, October 22 On the Tracks Food and Wine Event Downtown Opelika. 7:00 PM. Great food, live music, and fun! www.opelikamainstreet.org The Great Pumpkin Splash Opelika Sportplex Pool. 6-8 PM. Ages 6-12 years invited to pick a pumpkin from the floating pumpkin patch. Pre-register by 10/18. $4.00 per person. www.opelika-al.gov Friday Fright Night Movie at Kiesel Park Free. 6:15 PM. 520 Chadwick Lane, Auburn. An evening of spooky movies to get you in the mood for Halloween. The first feature Hocus Pocus (1993) will start at 6:15 p.m. and at 8 p.m. our second feature Seven (1995) will be shown. Patrons are encouraged to bring blankets or chairs. www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Saturday, October 23 Pioneer Day Pioneer Park - Lee County Historical Society, Loachapoka. Step back in time with demonstrations, good food, live music, and a variety of vendors! Demonstrations include making cane syrup, shelling corn, pioneer games, ice-cream making, and more! Rain date Sunday, Oct. 24. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org Haunted Zumbathon Free. Frank Brown Rec Center, Auburn. We will host a costume contest from 8:30 – 9 a.m. and Zumba will take place from 9 – 10:30 a.m. Instructors from around the Auburn-Opelika area will lead you. Children ages 8 and older are welcome with parent participation. www.auburnalabama.org/parks Festival of Laughs Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org The President’s Own Marine Band FREE. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Each fall, the Marine Band travels throughout a portion of the continental United States during its concert tour, a tradition initiated in 1891 by “The March King” John

Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

Philip Sousa, who was the band’s legendary 17th director. www.rivercenter.org

Monday, November 1

Aorta Touch Ten & Tough Two Ogletree Village. Auburn Opelika Running and Track Association’s (AORTA) 21st Annual Tough Ten/ Tough Two race, held in memory of Dr. Nicholas “Nick” Holler, a beloved community leader and an avid runner. The race will begin and end at the corner of Ogletree Village in Auburn.

Polar Express Holiday Celebration: Tickets Go on Sale Today Children 12 and under are invited to hop aboard the Polar Express on Saturday, Dec. 4 at Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Activities include arts and crafts, sweet treats, a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus and more! $15/person for participants 24 months and older. Tickets available at Active.com.

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Uptown’s Fall Food Truck Festival Woodruff Park, Columbus. Uptown Columbus will host the eighth annual Food Truck Festival in Columbus, Georgia, 11 AM - 6 PM as Woodruff Park and Dillingham Bridge transform into a Food Truck Mecca. 30+ GOURMET FOOD TRUCKS will set up in our backyard. Rocky Brook Rocket Train Rides Also Oct. 24. Municipal Park, Opelika. 2:00-5:00 PM, $1.00 per ride. Reservations, call 334-705-5549.

Tuesday, October 26 Fall Festival & Children’s Carnival Opelika SportsPlex. 5:30-8:30 PM. Ages 12 and under welcome. Join us for fall games, prizes, hayrides and more. www.opelika-al.gov

Wednesday, October 27 Noon Tunes: Muse Opelika Courthouse Square. 12:00-1:00 PM. www.opelika-al.gov

Friday, October 29 Downtown Auburn Trick-or-Treat 6:00- 8:00 PM. This is a fantastic alternative to doorto-door trick-or-treating, with downtown merchants handing out candy and plenty of treats for everyone! There will be music, provided by our special spooky entertainment for the evening, and the annual Costume Contest. Come Home to the Corner See Sept. 24 for details. Football, Fans and Feathers See Sept. 24 for details. Tour de Fright Opelika Sportsplex. 6-8 PM. Bicyclers beware! Parents and children are invited to take a ride on the haunted biking trail. Bring your bikes!

Saturday, October 30 Fall Family Festival Admission charged. Russell Crossroads. Face painting, pumpkin decorating, wagon rides, and more. 10 AM-1 PM. Alexander City. 256-397-1019. www.russelllands.com. Rocky Brook Rocket Train Rides Also Oct. 31. Municipal Park, Opelika. 2:00-5:00 PM, $1.00 per ride. Reservations: 334-705-5549.

Wednesday, November 3 Alabama Frontier Days Also Nov. 4,5,6. A demonstration of frontier life in Alabama and the southeast during the period 17001820.

Saturday, November 6 Pike Road Arts and Crafts Fair One of the oldest crafts fairs in Alabama featuring more than 250 artists and craftspeople. Held on the grounds of the historic Marks House. Children under 8 free.

Sunday, November 7 Veteran’s Appreciation Week at The Montgomery Zoo Also Nov. 8,9,10,11,12,13. 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. www. montgomeryzoo.com Alzheimer’s Association-Walk to End Alzheimer’s The first people to register will receive a set of Walk flags to display, while supplies last. To get more involved with the Alzheimer’s Association and Walk to End Alzheimer’s - Auburn, join the Auburn Walk. act.alz.org/site/TR/Walk2021/AL-Alabama Dadeville Christmas Open House Dadeville Businesses will be opening their doors to the public to showcase their businesses items for the upcoming Holiday season. Most businesses will be serving refreshments and great conversations. Go to our FaceBook page prior to the event for a map and listing of participating businesses.

Thursday, November 11 Kreher Preserve & Nature Center Fall Camp See Oct. 11 for details.

Saturday, November 13 Nature Art Series: Leaf Printing Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Local artist Heather Jackson teams up with the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center to bring you this art workshop series for all ages. Each workshop has a nature theme and will explore beautiful and interesting art techniques.

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Patti LaBelle Gogue Performing Arts Center. Actress and singer Patti LaBelle is widely regarded as the queen of rock and soul music—acclaimed for many of her songs, including “Lady Marmalade,” “When You Talk About Love” and “New Attitude.” www.goguecentertickets. auburn.edu The Simon & Garfunkel Show The Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. Using state of the art projection photos and original film footage, featuring a full live band performing all the hits including, “Mrs. Robinson”, “Cecilia”, “Bridge Over Troubled Water”, “Homeward Bound” and many more. www.eastalabamaarts.org

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14th Annual Holiday Art Sale Auburn Parks and Rec Center, Perry Street. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. This FREE 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! www. auburnalabama.org/parks

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Sno*pelika Christmas Festival and Tree Lighting Event 4:30 PM, Courthouse Square. This is a free, annual community event that kicks off the Christmas season in Opelika with artificial snowfall and tree lighting. www.opelikachamber.com

action and adventure as we join Jack and his sister, Lil’, on a magical journey up the beanstalk. $10/ Adults, $8/ Children, Students and Seniors. Tickets can be purchased at auburnact.org.

Shrek The Musical September 24-October 10. Springer Opera House, Columbus. Part romance, part fantasy and all heart, SHREK celebrates the values of acceptance, inner beauty and the miracle of unlikely heroes. springeroperahouse.org X Marks the Spot October 2-10. Springer Opera House. Ahoy Matey! Join Captain Letter and his pirate crew who sail through the alphabet looking for missing treasure! Meet salty crocodiles and magical mermaids and follow the clues to where X marks the spot! springeroperahouse.org Waitress October 13-14. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Inspired by the beloved film, Waitress tells the story of Jenna, an expert pie maker who dreams of a way out of her small town. A baking contest and the town’s new doctor may offer her a fresh start. www. rivercenter.org

Library Events

Evil Dead: The Musical October 21-31. Springer Opera House. Five college students go to an abandoned cabin in the woods, and accidentally unleash an evil force that turns them all into demons. It’s a hilarious song and dance horror story just in time for Halloween. www.springeroperahouse.org

Auburn Public Library Story Time Tuesdays-Saturdays, 9:30 AM and 1:00 PM. Early literacy story time for our friends birth to 5 years old and their favorite grown-ups. Program will be held in person in the Picture Books section of the Auburn Public Library Youth Room. Free and open to the public.

James and the Giant Peach November 12-14, 19-20. Springer Opera House. It’s the tale of James Henry Trotter and his daring escapades with his five buggy friends, his evil aunts Spiker and Sponge, and a silly assortment of kooky acquaintances. www.springeroperahouse.org

Auburn Public Library Virtual Story Time Tuesdays-Saturdays, 10:30 AM. Virtual early literacy story time for our friends birth to 5 years old and their favorite grown-ups! Virtual story times are held via Zoom, and registration is required in advance. Free and open to the public. Register here: https://zoom. us/webinar/register/WN_63KtHmIkRpWY1nPD8Pxrlw

Performances (multiple show dates) Auburn Area Community Theatre presents Jack and Lil Beanstalk September 30-October 9. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Be prepared to be swept up into the

Auburn University Volleyball Sept. 22, Oct. 2, 3, 16-17, 29

Ongoing Outside In at the Jule Through January 2022. This collaborative exhibition pairs selections from the university’s impressive Louise Hauss and David Brent Miller Audubon Collection with seasonally-changing specimens from Auburn’s Museum of Natural History. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Market Days on Broadway Saturdays, 9 AM - Noon. Columbus, GA. Featuring over 200 regional vendors selling everything from homemade bread and pastries to homegrown products, including local and organic produce, home goods, jewelry, crafts, and eclectic gifts and clothing. www.uptowncolumbusga.com Fall Invitational 2021 September 13 – October 15. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Selected works by area artists and craftspersons. Friday Night Concert Series Uptown Columbus. You’ll hear jazz, rock, reggae, gospel, and more. A full block along Broadway is shut down for pedestrian use. FREE and open to all ages. Bring your lawn chair, blanket, outside food and beverages allowed—glass containers and outside alcoholic beverages prohibited. www.alwaysuptown.com Pumpkin Festival Through October 31. Outdoor journey through classic storybook tales that come to life in 10 new themed areas with over 40 newly imagined scenes, thousands of glowing lights, massive carved pumpkins, bubbles, fog and plenty of not-so-spooky, glow-in-the-dark adventures after sunset. stonemountainpark.com Pumpkins at Callaway Through October 31. Gardens by Day, Glow by Night with new seasonally-themed experiences, interactive games, dance parties, costume contests, food and much more! www.callawaygardens.com

Auburn Public Library Puppet Show 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM. Puppet shows will be held in person in the Picture Books section of the Youth Room and virtually via Zoom. Free and open to the public. Register for a Zoom link here: https://zoom. us/webinar/register/WN__a-e86qbR1mhYZIDFybRzA Opelika Public Library Yoga Story Time Friday, August 6, 10:00 AM, Ages 0-5 and their siblings are welcome to join Ms. Janie for Yoga Story Time! Stories, movement, games, and fun!

Auburn University Tennis Oct. 14-19, 22-23

Sports Auburn University Equestrian Oct. 1, 8, 22-23, 29 Auburn University Football Sept. 25, Oct. 9, 30 Auburn University Soccer Sept. 26, Oct. 10, 17, 21 Auburn University Swim and Dive Sept. 29, Oct. 22-23

Please send your calendar events to Kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com! Because of ever-changing circumstances due to Covid-19, please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

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Teaching Children the Value of Work Q. What are your views on teaching children good work habits? Many of our friends don’t require their kids to help out or work around the house, but we both strongly feel that instilling a strong work ethic early in life is one of the best things you can do as a parent for your children. A. I’m so glad you both feel that way. Our culture has made many great advances to ensure the happiness and well-being of children. But too many parents today are so centered on what their children want that they have lost perspective on what their children need. Perspective, or looking at life over time, demands that you teach children to work. Teaching a child to work is not child abuse. We teach them to work

Auburn Opelika Parents I October 2021

not for our benefit, but because it gives them dignity in a job well done today and the tools and character to win as adults in the future. In my mind, children should be taught to work just like you’d teach them to bathe or brush their teeth—as a necessary life skill. An adult who has no clue how to tackle a job and finish it with pride is every bit as debilitated as an adult with body odor or green teeth. If your child graduates from high school, and his or her only skill set consists of playing video games, eating fast food and believing the world owes them something, you’ve set up your child to fail.

Another benefit of teaching a child the wonder of work is they may grow to lose a little respect for those who refuse to work. I’m not talking about folks who lost jobs due to unforeseen circumstances and are trying to get back on their feet, or someone who genuinely cannot work. I’m talking about folks who refuse to look for, or accept, gainful employment. My wife and I noticed that our kids, as they grew older, didn’t pursue relationships with people who didn’t understand the value of work and demonstrate the character traits of mature, hardworking people. And that was wonderful news to us!

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Are Your Children Protected?