Contents September 2012 Volume 3 Number 7
Features 30 Beginning a Mother-Daughter Book Club These six easy steps will have you and your daughter connecting with each other and your new group in no time.
36 Strategies for “Special Needs� Stress
Gain fresh insight on how to better deal with the challenges of raising a special needs child.
38 Special Needs Resource Guide
Columns
Our guide includes local, state, and national help for children with all types of disabilities and special needs.
2 From One Parent to Another Kendra Sumner
4 Living With Children John Rosemond, Ph.D.
On The Cover
10 Kids Health Ellen Royal, M.D.
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Departments 6 Bits and Pieces
Get This!
14 School Bits
Paige Gardner Smith
28 A Page in a Book
46 Family Calendar
Paige Gardner Smith
32 Crafting & Cooking w/ Kids
52 Parent Previews
Dana Moonan
34 Dave Says Dave Ramsey
51 Parenting on the Plains Polly Dunn, Ph.D.
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Skylar Jones is the daughter of Glenn and Missy Jones. She attends AEEC and loves singing, dancing, and playing with her older brother Gage. She was diagnosed with cerebral palsy when she was one and enjoys going to Rehab Works each week to see her favorite therapists. A special thanks to Storybook Farm for an amazing photo shoot. Storybook Farm is a non-profit faith based organization that provides equine assisted activities for children experiencing physical, mental, social and emotional challenges.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Auburn-Opelika Parents Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source
Auburn-Opelika Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Auburn-Opelika Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.
Publisher Kendra Sumner kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com
Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@auburnopelikaparents.com
Associate Editor Kelly Watson
Director of Sales Justin Sumner justin@auburnopelikaparents.com or (334) 209-0552
Contributing Writers Julia Derkovitz Polly Dunn, Ph.D. Cindy Hudson Dana Moonan Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Ellen Royal, M.D. Paige Gardner Smith
Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com
President Jason Watson jason@auburnopelikaparents.com
Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 1204 Owens Road Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2012 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.
Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
From One Parent to Another... One of my favorite ‘me’ activities is to curl up with a great book and get lost in the pages. Reading helps me unwind from a long day which decreases my level of stress. In a week filled with getting kids off to school and activities, house management, work, and crisis intervention along the way, the stress can build. Like a balloon, if I don’t release some of that pressure, I will surely burst...and loudly! Being a mom of four very busy children, I struggle with stress management and finding time for myself. I enjoy shopping, spending time with friends, sewing, reading and catching a movie. Of course, the ‘mom guilt’ of doing anything for myself always rears its ugly head when I do step away to indulge in my interests and hobbies. I struggle with finding that balance between doing for self and doing for family. I have to remind myself that feeding my soul will only benefit those around me. My guess is, if you were to ask my husband and kids which mom they would choose...an overwhelmed and scary one or a balanced, more well-rounded and less stressed one, I am betting they would choose the latter. So, by doing for myself, I am doing for them. This month’s feature article, Six Steps to Starting a Mother-Daughter Book Club, was like a light bulb to me. If stress relief for me is reading a good book and my kids like to read (and need to read), why not enjoy it more together? I have started to take notice that when I sit down to read, my oldest daughter will grab a book and do the same. Slowly, but surely, her little sister shadow will snuggle up next to her and nudge the reading session into a read-a-loud bonding time. Maybe we should take this hobby to the next level and form our very own mother-daughter book club! The author points out that this is a great way to keep the lines of communication open with your preteen daughters, reach out to others in the community and encourage the love for reading along the way. How to get started? Some easy step-by-step tips are provided such as locations and how to invite others. For me, I will begin at home with my girls and take it one page at a time! This month’s issue is a celebration of the special needs child and their families. Included is a fantastic article, Strategies for Stress: When Raising a Special Needs Child, which also encourages parents to take that extra time for themselves to destress. The parent of a child who presents with special needs can find themselves putting in overtime in parenting. Not only in the day-to-day home and childcare needs, but also in research of your specific child’s disability, activism, and community involvement. Even with all the positive energy and focus, these parents need to unwind, refresh and regroup. A great tip is to reach out to others for help and guidance by involvement in a support group in our community. This can also provide an outlet for family fun and hobbies. To help get you started, check out this year’s Special Needs Resource Guide for a list of local, regional and national organizations and events geared toward many special needs. With this being one the busiest times of the year, don’t overlook setting aside time for yourself. My biggest flaw is that I forget to take care of number one. My family needs me to be my best self and that means taking time to rejuvenate and enjoy hobbies. I am going to take my own advice and do that right now. So where did I put my book?
Kendra
Kendra Sumner, Publisher
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Living With Children
By John Rosemond
Optimal Age for Potty Training Q:
I started potty training my son when he turned 3. He always uses the potty independently when he is completely naked from the waist down. But when he’s wearing underwear or even shorts with no underwear, he pees and poops on himself, chairs, the floor, etc. I know I caused the problem by putting him in pull-ups at naps, night, and when leaving the house. What should I do to help him be successful when wearing underwear or clothes? He can’t go naked forever!!
A:
You actually set the stage for this problem by waiting until he was 3 to train him. Studies find that toilet training after 32 months is associated with increases in bowel control problems, including “holding.” As I say in my latest book, “Toilet Training without Tantrums,” the optimal window for toilet training is between 18 and 24 months. The post-1960s recommendation to wait until certain bogus readiness signs have emerged and let children train themselves has proved a huge flop. It’s transformed something a pre-1960s mom did in a week or so, with little hassle, into the most stressful parenting event of the preschool years, often dragging on for months. And yes, so-called “pull-ups” will only delay a child’s success. Bulky fabric around the pelvic area is associated with permission to release at will, without regard to time or place. At this point, the solution to your problem lies in what I call the “potty bell.” Put your son in thin cotton
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underwear when he’s at home. Set the stove timer to ring every hour. When it rings, the rule is that he has to go to the bathroom and use the potty, and he can’t come out until he’s had success. This procedure will slowly but surely train him to pay attention to the need to go when he’s wearing clothing.
Q:
The first time my 3-year-old called his 4-year-old brother “stupid” I was caught off guard and probably made too big a deal over it. I told him that he is not allowed to call a person stupid because it is hurtful. He promptly began calling the dog, his cup, and everything else under the sun “stupid.” He loves to call people “stoopy” or “foopid” or “poopid” (especially that one, since it combines two words he knows annoy me!) I’ve created a monster, haven’t I? I have started ignoring the behavior, but what should I do when he directs the term at a friend or just some random kid at the playground?
A:
Yep, you’ve created a monster, but monsters can be starved into submission, if not to death. At this stage of the game, you’re doing the right thing by ignoring the stupids (including every creative variation on the word) completely, or as completely as possible. If he calls a friend or stranger “stupid,” you need to make him apologize. If he resists, sit him in a “thinking chair” (or whatever is available) until he complies. If you react calmly but authoritatively in those situations and ignore the rest, the stupids should die a natural death in, oh, anywhere from a couple of months to a couple of years. Hang in there!
Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond. com.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
bits & pieces Alabama Buddy Walk for Down Syndrome Regions Park Stadium, in Hoover, will be the venue for this year's 13th Annual Alabama Buddy Walk. Participate as a Team, An Individual, A Corporate Sponsor, or as A Volunteer on Sunday, October 14, 2 - 4 p.m. $10 registration fee includes an Awareness - Acceptance - Advocacy Wristband which is the ticket to the Walk & activities, $5 walk t-shirt. Spread the Word! Invite friends, family and co-workers to join you! http://www.downsyndromealabama.org/
Small Fry Triathlon for the Very Young
August 25, 9-10am at Town Creek Park, Auburn. Step up to the starting line and run as fast as you can! Bring a helmet and a bike, trike or big-wheels and pedal, pedal, pedal! Run through the sprinklers provided by the Auburn fire truck and go straight to the finish line! Ages 2 - 6 years. Races every 5-10 minutes. Children can re-race as many times as they like. Every child receives a medal and a t-shirt, and all are winners! Pre-registration is $15/child or $35/family of 3 children given as a donation to the American Cancer Society. Day-of-event registration is $20/child or $40/family of 3 children. All proceeds go to toward the lifesaving mission of the American Cancer Society of Lee County. www.facebook. com/events/344837662269457.
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Storybook Scramble to Raise Money for Local Children
Join Storybook Farms on October 24 for a noon tee-off at Robert Trent Jones Grand National, in Opelika. Storybook Scramble proceeds stay in our community and will be used to benefit children coping with disabilities, life-threatening illnesses, grief, and social challenges. Because Storybook Farm provides all services and programs at no cost to our families, these funds are the vital link between those needing help and those willing to give of their time, talents and resources. www.story-book-farm.org.
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Bark in the Park a Fun Day for Dogs and their Owners
Bark in the Park is a celebration of the bond between owners and their pets and just a great day at the historic Fort ToulouseJackson State Park, September 23. Bring your dog for a fun afternoon of pet games & contests, food, vendors of all kinds, live music, children’s games, demonstrations and so much more. Events fire up at 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. and pets are encouraged to bring their owners. All dogs must be good in a busy public environment with other pets, children and loud noises. All pets must have a current rabies vaccination. All proceeds go to the Humane Society of Elmore County. Admission is $5 for ages 13 & up. www.elmorehumane.com.
Woofstock for Dogs to be Held at Kiesel Park
Woofstock is Lee County Humane Society's annual fund-raising event to celebrate people and their dogs. This year, the event will be September 29, at Kiesel Park in Auburn. Each year dog lover's and their four-legged friends gather at Kiesel Park for a fun-filled day with live entertainment, dog activities and demos, local pet merchandise vendors, children's activities and more! 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. www.leecountyhumane.org. Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
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Signature Chefs Auction of East Alabama Benefiting March of Dimes
Join us for the inaugural Signature Chefs Auction of East Alabama, November 13, at Auburn University Club! Bring together the top chefs in East Alabama showcasing their culinary masterpieces, a generous sampling of fine wines, fabulous entertainment and lively silent and live auctions, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for Signature Chefs Auction! Approximately 150 guests will dine on dishes from 12-15 local chefs. Don't miss this delicious chance to give every baby a healthy, fighting chance at life. Silent Auction, cuisine sampling, wine & beer tasting at 6 p.m. Live Auction & Fund the Mission begins at 7:30 p.m. Cocktail or business attire is preferred. For more information on tickets, sponsorships, or how you can help, please contact Linda Gross at (334) 513-7381 or lgross@marchofdimes.com. Money raised at Signature Chefs of East Alabama supports research and programs designed to improve the health of babies by preventing premature birth, birth defects and infant mortality in Alabama. You can support the March of Dimes in this mission by serving as a corporate sponsor or purchasing tickets to the event.
Yellow Daisy Festival at Stone Mountain Park
Yellow Daisy Annual Festival at Stone Mountain Park, Ga. will be held September 6-9. A Southeast Tourism Society Top 20 Event and winner of multiple awards by the Southeast Festival and Events Association. More than 400 artists and crafters from 38 States and two countries display their works for your appreciation and purchase. Daily live entertainment, Children's Corner activities, clogging and crafter demonstrations throughout the event as well as fabulous festival foods. www.stonemountainpark.com.
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bits & pieces Auburn Softball Complex Hosts National Amateur Softball Tournament
The Auburn Softball Complex hosted the Amateur Softball Association (ASA) Men’s Church National Tournament on Saturday, Aug. 11. Teams from Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Mississippi, and Oklahoma competed in tournament play. The 2012 ASA Men’s Church National Tournament Champion title goes to Eastside Baptist Church from Jasper, AL (pictured left). This year’s runner-up is Holy Family Catholic Church from Oklahoma (pictured below).
D Built in 1992, the Auburn Softball Complex has been recognized as one of the premier complexes in the nation by USA Softball Magazine and has been awarded the 1999, 2001, 2005, 2006, 2008, and 2010 Alabama ASA Complex of the Year Award. Since its opening in 1993, the Complex has hosted more than 19 ASA National Championships and was the home of the 1997 and 1998 Auburn University Women’s Fast Pitch team and hosted a number of SEC games.
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Children are one of God’s Masterpieces!
Now enrolling for 2012-2013 school year • Ages 1-4 years Letter & Number Recognition • Social Interaction • Music Two, three and four day programs • Bible Stories Christ-centered • Chapel • Scripture Memory
Lakeview Preschool Adventures Lakeview Baptist Church 1600 East Glenn Ave. Auburn, AL • 334.321.4905 www.lakeviewbaptist.org
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Football, Fans & Feathers
The Southeastern Raptor Center will again host its annual birds-in-flight raptor programs on Fridays before Auburn University home football games. "Football, Fans and Feathers" kicks off at 4 p.m. in the 350-seat Edgar B. Carter Educational Amphitheater on Raptor Road off Shug Jordan Parkway. During "Football, Fans and Feathers," visitors learn about the residents of the Southeastern Raptor Center. Hawks, falcons and eagles will be free-flown from flight towers allowing guests to see these raptors flying close.Admission is $5 each and registration is not required. For school groups of 25 of more, admission is $3 a person. For information about school groups, call (334) 844-6943. Children under three are admitted free. Roadside signs mark the program's location on the day of each show. Raptor Road is a gravel road with a red gate off Shug Jordan Parkway just north of the Wire Road intersection. All birds used in the programs are permanent residents that are non-releasable due to prior injuries or human imprinting. The Southeastern Raptor Center is part of the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. The center's mission is to rehabilitate injured or orphaned raptors, and to educate the public. www.vetmed.auburn.edu/raptor.
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Downtown Autumn Nights at Toomer's Corner Join in the spirit of Auburn on September 14, from 6-10 p.m. Presented by The Auburn and Opelika Tourism Bureau featuring Swingin' Medallions and appearances by Aubie, The Auburn University Cheerleaders and The Auburn University Band. For updates and information visit facebook.com/ auburnchamber.
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Kids Heal h
Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn
Scoliosis
Scoliosis or curvature of the spine is a condition seen most often in adolescent girls age 10 years and up. Our schools currently screen for scoliosis during the adolescent years and pediatricians commonly evaluate adolescents for this condition. But what is scoliosis and why does it occur? How can it be diagnosed and treated? What does the latest research tell us about scoliosis and treatment? Scoliosis is a disorder of the spine in which there is a side-to-side curve of the spine. The curve typically looks like a C or a S when looking at the back of the patient. People of all ages can have scoliosis, but it is most common in adolescents older than 10 years. Girls have this condition more often than boys. Eighty-five percent of the time the cause is idiopathic or unknown. Rarely, scoliosis will be caused by a syndrome such as Marfan’s Syndrome, cerebral palsy or muscular dystrophy, because of a birth defect such as an improperly formed vertebra, or because of spinal infection or benign spinal tumor. Screening for scoliosis is the best way to detect the problem in adolescents and determine if they need treatment. During routine well check ups for adolescents, pediatricians will examine the spine for curvature by looking at the back when the patient is bent over to see if one side of
the ribcage is higher than the other, and by looking at the shoulders and hips to see if they are level. The schools in our area also do screenings for scoliosis. This helps to detect scoliosis in patients who don’t come in for regular check ups. After the screening is done, if there is significant curvature, back pain, or signs of a disorder an x-ray can be done to determine the degree of spine curvature. Most scoliosis picked up on routine screening exams are minor curves (or curvature less than 20 degrees as measured on spine xray). These require no treatment, but do warrant re-screening to see if progression occurs through the adolescent growth spurt. Once a teenager has stopped growing, scoliosis is unlikely to occur or worsen. For those rare cases where the curve in the spine is significant, consultation with an orthopedic surgeon is recommended. They may recommend more observation, bracing or surgery. Surgery is advised only rarely for the curvatures that are 45 degrees or more, a curve that is worsening, or causing other difficulties related to severely altered posture. Research has shown that treatment by chiropractic manipulation, electrical stimulation, nutritional supplements, or exercise do NOT correct scoliosis nor
prevent scoliosis from worsening. However, research into new types of treatments, braces and surgeries are currently underway. Doctors are still studying the long-term effects of both surgical treatment and leaving scoliosis untreated. For this reason it is best to seek the advise of an experienced orthopedic surgeon before undergoing any scoliosis surgical treatment. In summary, most scoliosis or curvature of the spine will be discovered during adolescence and will cause no problems for the child. Screening at the pediatrician’s office or at school is an effective tool because it allows for early detection. Usually there is no treatment needed, but when required, it should be done by an orthopedic specialist. Dr. Ellen Royal attended the University of South Alabama College of Medicine for her medical degree and graduated in 1994. She returned to Alabama the summer of 1998 to join the pediatric practice of Dr. Richard M. Freeman. Dr. Royal is a member of the Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is board certified in Pediatrics. Dr. Royal is married to Dr. Kevin Royal who practices Internal Medicine in Opelika and they have three children.
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Auburn MMA can help
your child succeed in life! Respect for self and others
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Avoid substance abuse
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Self Confidence Anti bullying techniques
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Character development Emotional well being A positive outlook towards life
A healthy lifestyle through fitness & nutrition Call today to schedule an introductory
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Call today and mention this ad and receive our back to school special! 334-887-0818 www.auburnmma.com
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Monsters Kids Will Love to Find Under the Bed
Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids
To small children, ‘monsters’ are exciting and repellant at the same time. Imaginary creatures, monsters can seem pretty scary because there are no limits to a child’s imagination. Keeping monsters in their place is helped with reminders to kids that monsters are simply made-up things, figments of someone’s imagination – or of their own. The following toys and games add strength to the assertion that monsters are not real and have no power… by giving kids the power to create, role-play and rework monsters into a form that they control and are comfortable with. Get ready to bring out the little monster in your little ones!
by Paige Gardner Smith
Shrinky Dinks Moster Lab
Go Away, Monster! (Gamewright)
The popular favorite at library story times, Go Away, Monster is a delightful children’s book that helps a child imagine wishing a monster away, bit by bit, until it’s completely gone. The Go Away Monster Game brings some of that monsterbanishing power right into every pre-school age kid’s personal domain. Using empty bedroom playing boards, players reach into a bag for furniture and gear for decorating their bedroom. But there are monsters in the bag, too. When a monster is drawn, kids get to throw it into the monster pit shouting “Go Away, Monster!” This simple premise allows kids to build their ‘safe environment’ AND put monsters in their place along the way. Also, children love an excuse to shout – and this time, it’s game approved!
(Creativity for Kids) Kids are in control with Shrinky Dinks Monster Lab, an expansive craft kit with everything needed to color, bake and shrink monsters down to size. Over 50 pre-cut plastic monsters are ready for coloring, cooking and casting as characters in the 3-D laboratory setting that’s included for display finished monsters. Colored pencils, wiggly eyes, jump rings and more decorations for the monster come with the kit. Everything you need to create monsters is included except the oven for baking and shrinking these bad boys down to size!
LEGO Monster 4 Game
Tickle Monster Laughter Kit
There is safety in numbers and never more so when you are moving through a graveyard at night trying to get your monsters in order. Interfering with your efforts to line up your four monsters, players must keep an eye out for skeletons and jumping spiders that can appear anytime. LEGO’s Monster Game is one of their buildable games series that creates a framework for gameplay, but allows for changeable rules and building different game boards (a la LEGO), offering kids the opportunity that keeps the game play fresh for players and builders alike. Great for a range of ages and ideal for children who already love building bricks, LEGO Monster is game for a monstrous good time!
Ideal for reading aloud (and tickling along) with young children, the Tickle Monster Laughter Kit includes the best-selling kids book, plus super soft fuzzy mitts for the tickle monster to wear as the story is acted out. As the Tickle Monster arrives on Earth, he explains how tickling is his favorite thing and the story provides helpful direction to all the ticklish places! The included oversized monster mitts take a lot of the scare out of the monster when the tickling commences and laughter pours out. Parents who assume they will wear the mitts – be warned. Plenty of kids like to be the mitt-wearer and act the part, so prepare to be tickled!
(Lego)
(Compendium)
Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.
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Auburn Foot Care Center 785 N Dean Rd # 100 (334) 466-1401 www.brettstarkdpm.com
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Battle it Out Blade Raises Money for Beulah High School Student
Lazy Swamis, a band from Columbus, Ga., played during the Battle It Out Blade benefit concert held at Opelika Municipal Park for Blade Longshore, a 15-year-old Beulah High School student that has been battling leukemia. Hundreds gathered for the benefit concert. Blade Longshore is now in remission, but he has endured three rounds of chemotherapy, the removal of his gall bladder and several other complications since being diagnosed with leukemia in March. He recently faced his next challenge as he underwent a bone marrow transplant in Birmingham. Since Blade’s diagnosis, the Beulah community has rallied around him with a series of fundraisers, including a benefit concert featuring five musical acts.
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Lee-Scott Student Wins First Place in State Art Competition
Holli Hendrick won 1st place in State AISA Art Competition this year. She is in the 6th grade at Lee-Scott Academy. Holli participates in basketball, choir, drama, technology team, and horseback. She has a horse and 4 dogs. She is also a volunteer for Rescue K911.
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Summer School Fun at Yarbrough Elementary
Yarbrough Students had fun learning reading, math, writing, and map skills during summer school. The media specialist, Mrs. McGilberry introduced map elements, then each student designed a map for his/her town (pictured, left). The fourth, fifth, and sixth graders also work on reading and math skills with Mrs. Dean and Mrs. Price. Second graders dive into reading with Mrs. Hill (pictured below). Students are excited to begin the new school year! Yarbrough school third graders work handson with math skills with Ms. Haghighi (right). Mathematics concepts are explored with a wide variety of manipulatives and games.
OHS Majorettes to Host Twirling Camp
The Opelika High School majorettes will be hosting their annual Twirling Camp on Saturday, August 25th from 9 a.m.- 12 p.m. in the Opelika High School Mainstreet gym. Registration is the day of the camp and the cost is $25 which includes a t-shirt. Girls ages 3 years and older can attend. Participants will perform during pre-game activities at the first home football game on September 7th. Girls are asked to bring a baton to the camp. Extra batons will be provided but supplies are limited.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Tr Se Students Brush Up on Skills at Lee-Scott Basketball Camp
Lee-Scott held its annual basketball camp June 25 28. The camp was divided into two groups. Students in grades 1st through 6th attended the morning camp and students in grades 7th through 10th attended in the afternoon. Over 130 students attended the camp, learning balance and footwork, hand placement, release point, shooting drills, dribble moves, shot fakes, shooting progression, chair drills, post moves and free throws. The camp is directed by Coach Chad Prewett.
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Beulah Grad is National Fishing Champion
Congrats to 19 year old Beulah Grad, Kyle Welcher, the TBF National Champion! Kyle is excited to be competing and winning on Table Rock Lake. The Walmart FLW Tour rookie caught a 24 pound, 8 ounce stringer and grabbed the lead at the second major of the season. Winnings on this tournament were in excess of $14,000.
Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.
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Technology program for ages 1 & up Solid Rubber Playground Surface reduces injuries Our Character Education program teaches values Healthy menu with fresh fruit and whole grain foods Sign Language for all ages Lower Child:Teacher ratios Video monitoring in all classrooms Infant curriculum customized for your baby Infants through School-Age | Care available from 6:30am to 6:30pm Transportation available to most Auburn schools
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Trinity Student Works with Senator on Bill Concerning Food Allergies Kyle Graddy, a student at Trinity Christian School, worked with Senator Tom Whatley on a bill that would help kids with food allergies. This past April, Kyle spoke to the Alabama Senate Health Committee on behalf of children with food allergies. Pictured are Senator Tom Whatley and Kyle Graddy at the Alabama State House.
Celtic Traditions Celebrates Students' Competition Success
Celtic Traditions School of Irish Dance had a very successful competition season! Students attended competitions in Atlanta, Charlotte, New Orleans, Tampa, and Orlando. They earned a whopping fifteen 1st places, nine 2nd places, and five 3rd places! Three students qualified for the North American Championships, which was held July 3rd- 7th in Chicago. Pictured from left to right is: Emma Kate Shaw, Ellie Armstrong-Wright, Lucie Arnaud, and Beth Prior.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Sorority Raises Money for March of Dimes
The Phi Theta Kappa National Honor Society at Southern Union State Community College in Opelika took its support for babies to the streets by collecting funds for the annual March of Dimes fundraising drive, raising more than $500. Pictured on the front row, from left, are Leslie Perdue, secretary; LaDonna Vines; Jakimbrya Carr, president; Alisha Murray, outgoing vice president; Breana Walton; and DeVonte Finley, vice president. On the back row, from left, are Regina Pruitt; Shelbie Smith, public relations representative; Cordero Tolbert; Alyson Childers; Katelyn Wood; Altavious Burton; and Ryan Reeves. The PTK adviser for the Opelika campus is Dr. Bonita Johnson.
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Milestones Learning Center Awarded Grant
Milestones Learning Center has been awarded a $1000 resource development grant from the Employers' Child Care Alliance. These grants are made possible through funds from the Alabama Department of Human Resources. Milestones was chosen for providing a safe, nurturing environment where young children can develop. The funds will be used for supplies to enhance our educational programs. Lee Sides, Director of Milestone Development, said, "We are just so proud of our hard-working staff at MLC...they are the reason for this programs continued success."
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Lee-Scott Cheerleaders Named AISA Champions
The Lee-Scott Academy varsity cheerleaders were named the AISA Camp Champions in the large division category. The camp was at Huntingdon College. Pictured on the front row, from left to right, are Amanda Samford, Kathryn Humphries, Frannie Thompson, Katherine Brown, Andrea Smith and coach Allyson Roberts. Pictured in the middle row, from left to right, are Andie Diers, Emily Zimmerman, Allison Young, Mallory Meagher, Hayden Robinson and Bailey Beckwith. Pictured in the back row, from left to right, are McCall Ray, Bailee Mims, Gracie Sanders and Cameron Rice.
Lee-Scott Jr. Varsity Cheerleaders Named State Runners-Up at Cheer Competition
The Lee-Scott Academy junior varsity cheerleaders were named state runners-up at the AISA Cheer Camp Competition. Pictured in the front row, from left to right, are Savannah Jumper, Ellie Whatley, Kathryn Young, Holly Grace Robinson, Kara Pettit and coach Allyson Roberts. Pictured in the middle row, from left to right, are Gracie Braswell, Lauren Wilhite, Alle-Ann Dubberley, Hannah Grace Dozier, Holly Mitchell, Claudia Tucker, Emmie Cooksey and Hannah Grace Wood. Pictured in the back row, from left to right, are Madelyn Weaver, Chauntel Kriel, Mary Whitten Samford, Landon DeLamar, Lauren Newman, Lauren Price and Annsley Cerovsky.
Lee-Scott Academy All-Star Cheerleaders
The following Lee-Scott Academy cheerleaders were named All-Stars at a recent competition: Andrea Smith, Katherine Brown, Frannie Thompson and Amanda Samford.
OHS Graduate Signs Scholarship with Butler Community College OHS graduate Bethany Howard recently signed a basketball scholarship with Butler Community College in El Dorado, Kansas. Joining her for the signing were members of her family. Pictured: front row: l-r Ellen Ingram, aunt; Bethany; Helen Howard, mother. Back row: l-r Brian Blackmon, OHS Athletic Director; Devin Booth, OHS Girls Head Basketball Coach and Farrell Seymore, OHS Principal Congratulations!
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Be Smiths Station High School Team Wins Second in Floriculture Event
The Smiths Station High School FFA Floriculture Team recently finished second in the State FFA Floriculture Career Development Event held at Auburn University. Pictured, from left to right, are Harold Barrow, FFA adviser and floriculture instructor at Smith Station High School; Lucinda Daughtry; Mary Kendall Dixon; Erica Plunkett; Katie Nicholson; and Buddy Pittman, FFA adviser and horticulture instructor at SSHS. Daughtry was the third-highest scoring individual in the competition.
Loachapoka Students Receive Achievement Awards from Fraternity
Two Loachapoka Seniors were honored with achievement awards from the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. Nu Iota Iota Chapter from Auburn. This award was presented to the seniors at White Street Baptist Church. Congratulations!
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Dr. John W. Tole is the area’s only Board-Certified Allergy and Immunology physician. We treat patients of all ages.
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Beauregard Student Leads Pledge of Allegiance in House of Representatives Sean Squiers, Beauregard Elementary School student, led the Pledge of Allegiance in the House of Representatives as a guest of Representative DeMarco of Jefferson County during the 5th annual Autism Legislative Day on March 14, 2012.
Welcome New Opelika City Schools Teachers The Opelika City Schools proudly introduce the new teachers and staff for the 2012-13 school year. They are pictured as follows: First Row (l-r) Ann Myers, OMS; Candace Lawrence, Carver Primary; Rachel Roberts, OHS; Holley Taylor, Jeter Primary; Ann Johnson, OMS; Danielle Rosener, Northside Intermediate; and Rachel Turnham, Morris Avenue Intermediate. Second Row (l-r): Jillian Ellzey, OLC; Stephanie Sexton, OMS; Jessica Hargett, Carver Primary; Lekishia Richardson, Southview Primary; Anna Speigner, Carver Primary; Lauren Hinkle, Southview Primary; Sarah Chatham, Southview Primary; and Elaine Rhodes, Southview Primary. Third Row (l-r):Betsy Carlisle, Morris Avenue Intermediate; Heather Weston, OMS; Sarah Sanderson, Morris Avenue Intermediate; Jennifer Young, OMS; Kimberly NunesBufford, West Forest; Allyson Petrone, OHS; Anne Larkin Oaks, Jeter Primary; Susan McClellan, Morris Avenue Intermediate; Jennifer Coombs,
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OMS; Ashley Bledsoe, Morris Avenue Intermediate; Julie Worth, OHS and Jennilee Baker, Morris Avenue Intermediate. Fourth Row (l-r): Beverly Belcher, OHS; Ramona Mulkey, Jeter Primary; Jessica Smith, OHS; Haley Harbough, West Forest Intermediate; Cindy Adams, West Forest; Kristen Williams, OHS; Shauna Henry, OMS; Derek Martin, OMS; Christina Oliver, OHS; Les Gamble, OLC; Cara Burnett, OMS; Calvin Ellis, OHS; Bobby Owen, Northside Intermediate and Zack Lancaster, OHS. Not pictured: Amber Landers, OHS; Kendrick Myers, OHS and Pam Fourtenbary, West Forest Intermediate. 21
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2013 Distinguished Young Woman of Lee County Will be Named August 18
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The participants of the Distinguished Young Women of Lee County have been working hard on the upcoming program. They have put in many hours under the instruction of Paula Nix of Nix Dance Studio. They have been working on the opening number, introductions, fitness, and self-expression. The Distinguished Young Woman of Lee County Program will be held August 18th at the Auburn Performing Arts Center at 6:30. Tickets will be available at the door the night of the performance. There will be 17 girls who are entering their senior year of high school participating in this year’s
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Distinguished Young Woman of Lee County. These young ladies will be judged on their scholastic, talent, interview, self-expression, and fitness abilities. The participants are representing schools within Lee County.
Summertime Cool Off at Creative Discovery
The students at Creative Discovery enjoyed a cool treat from the Kona Ice truck. Summer is better with ice treat and friends!
MMA Students Place in National Grappling Championship
The Kids/Teen MMA class from Auburn Mixed Martial Arts attended the NAGA Georgia National Grappling Championship tournament Saturday, July 21, in Jonesboro , GA. La'Pone Jackson brought home 1st place the kids No-Gi Novice 41 lbs. and under 4 & 5 yr olds. and 2nd place in the kids Gi Novice 41 lbs. and under 4 & 5 yrs old. Sir'Vaughn Jackson received 1st place in both the Kids Gi and No-Gi Novice 47 to 49.9 lbs. 5 yr olds. TJ Autrey won 2nd place in both the Kids Gi and No-Gi Novice 49.9 lbs. and under 6 yr olds. Brandon Weatherley brought home1st place in kids No-Gi Expert 50 to 59.9 lbs. 8 & 9 yr olds and 2nd place in the Kids Go Expert 50 to 59.9 lbs. 8 & 9 yr olds. Parker Weatherley received 2nd place in kids No-Gi Intermediate 60 to 69.9 lbs. 6 & 7 yr olds. also 2nd place in the kids Gi Novice 60 to 69.9 lbs. 6 to 10 yr olds. Michael Morgan won 3rd place in the kids No-Gi 70 to 79.9 lbs. 9 & 10 yr olds. Ben Daughtry brought home 3rd place in both the kids Gi and No-Gi Beginner 90 to 99.9 lbs. 12 & 13 yr old. Cameron Tubbs received 1st place in the girls Gi Novice 52 to 60 lbs. 7 yr olds, 2nd place in the girls No-Gi Novice 59-69 lbs. and under 7, and 2nd place in the girls Gi Beginner (No Submissions) 59-60 lbs. 7 yr olds. Diondra (Dee Dee) Larkin won 2nd place in the girls No-gi Novice 105-111 lbs. 11 & 12 yr olds, and brought home 1st place in the girls gi novice 105-111 lbs. 11 & 12 yr olds. Blake Weatherley brought home 2nd place in the kids Gi Expert 129 to 136.9 lbs. 12 & 13 yr olds. Pictured, back left to right: Blake Weatherley, Brandon Weatherley, Kelly Tubbs, Cameron Tubbs, Ben Daughtry, Dillan McCain. Front left to right: Randall Phillips - instructor, T.J Autrey, Michael Morgan, Parker Weatherley, Sir' Vaughn Jackson, La' Pone Jackson, Diondra (Dee Dee) Larkin - not pictured. Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
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Opelika Fifth Graders Visit Washington D.C.
5th grade students from the Opelika school system spent an awesome four days in Washington, DC and Williamsburg, Virginia this past May. Sixty-two students from West Forest, Morris Avenue, and Northside Intermediate schools spent one day in Williamsburg, Virginia touring the colonial capital and learning about colonial life in the 1700s. Students sat in the House of Burgesses where Patrick Henry encouraged defiance of the King of England. The group then toured Jamestown, the first permanent English settlement in North America. Students saw the English ships, fort, and the Powhatan Indian village. While in Washington DC, each student presented letters and flowers at the Vietnam War Memorial Wall, visited Arlington National Cemetery, and witnessed the changing of the guard at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers. Mt. Vernon, home of George Washington, was another highlight of the trip, as well as the White House, the U.S. Capitol building, the Smithsonian Museums, and Ford’s Theater, where Abraham Lincoln was assassinated. Before leaving Washington, students met and talked with Alabama Senator Jeff Sessions in the Russell Building. Program leaders were Tricia Skelton from Morris Avenue Intermediate School, Kailey Birkeland from Northside Intermediate School, and Amy Foster from West Forest Intermediate School.
Beauregard Elementary Students Recognized at Auburn Baseball Game
Pictured is a group of Beauregard Elementary School students who were recognized as BGES All-Star Students at the Auburn Baseball game on May 8th. Good job kids!
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Beulah Seniors Sign Softball Scholarships Congratulations to Beulah High School senior, Jenna Walker (photo, left), for signing a softball scholarship with Chattahoochee Valley Community College.
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Beulah High School Senior, Emily Miller (photo, right) received a softball scholarship with Central Alabama Community College. Emily is the daughter of Brian and Sandy Miller.
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Beulah Student Wins Troy University Golf Scholarship
Jacob Harper signed a golf scholarship with Troy University at a ceremony at Beulah High School. Congratulations to Jacob who captured the 3A State Championship title in the State Golf Tournament last spring as a junior. Pictured with Jacob are his mother, Alison Harper, Grandmother Janice Bolton on the front row. Pictured on the back row are Assistant Principal David Owen, Jacob’s sister, Kelsey, Grandfather, Virgil Bolton and Principal Armand Crowder. Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com
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A C Students Volunteer in Community During Camp
Cornerstone Youth participated in RUSH camp, July 12-14. Teams of youth and leaders volunteered at the Food Bank of East Alabama, Monarch Estates, the Humane Society, Storybook Farms and Arbor Springs.
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Opelika SeaDawgs Finish 9th at ARPA State Meet
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The Opelika SeaDawgs Swim Team finished ninth out of 28 teams in the ARPA State Swimming & Diving Championships held at the Opelika SportsPlex recently. Pictured with their medals (front row, from left) are: Cole Jackson, Eli Elston, Autumn Baker and Railey Jones. Back row: Sean Ferrebee, Meghan Roach and Josie Wiggins. Medal winners not pictured: Denson Gould, Breckin Gould and John Thomas Arnold.
4-H Livestock Winners
The Lee County 4-H Senior Livestock Judging Team swept the 2012 4-H District Competition. Pictured are Warren Dowdell, assistant Lee County 4-H Livestock judging coach; Clay McGuire, who was recognized as High Individual in the senior division; Katelyn Dowdell, 2nd High Individual; Reid McGuire, 4th High Individual; and Bubba Dowdell.
The 2012 4-H District Competition was in Autagaville on June 28. The Lee County 4-H Junior Livestock Judging Team received the 3rd High Team award in the competition. Pictured below are Warren Dowdell, assistant Lee County 4-H Livestock judging coach; Nathan Gullatt; Grace Gullatt, who was recognized as High Individual in the junior division; Julia Lawrence; and Jacob Smith. Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
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The Alabama State 2012 4-H Livestock Competition was in Auburn on July 6. The Lee County 4-H Livestock Judging Team swept the competition in cattle, swine, sheep and goat along with questions and reasons. Pictured below are Warren Dowdell, assistant 4-H Livestock judging coach; Reid McGuire, who was recognized as High Individual; Clay McGuire, who was recognized as 2nd High Individual; Katelyn Dowdell; Bubba Dowdell; and head coach Smokey Spears.
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Auburn Hosts Jr. Tennis Championships August 17-19
The City of Auburn/Auburn University Yarbrough Tennis Center (YTC) hosted over 450 of the state’s best and brightest young tennis stars and their families at the Alabama State Jr. Team Tennis Championship July 20 - 22. Junior players from across the state ages 8 – 18 competed for a chance to qualify for the USTA Southern Jr. Team Tennis Sectional Championships in Auburn in August. Players competed in boys and girls singles, doubles, and mixed doubles. Auburn was selected to host the 2012 and 2013 USTA Southern Jr. Team Tennis Sectional Championships. The 2012 championships, Aug. 17 – 19, bring over 1,000 of the Southeast’s best junior tennis players to Auburn to compete for the title.
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Local Teen Named West Georgia Pageant Winner Brooke Smith was recently awarded the title of West Georgia Teen Miss Heart of the USA. Brooke is the daughter of Brian and Mary Folds of Opelika. She looks forward to a year of fun with appearances representing West Georgia, including the state competition.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Auburn High School Student Places 10th in Nation at FBLA Competition
Lydia West, daughter of Dr. Paul and Tracie West, represented Auburn High School and Alabama Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) at National Competition in San Antonio, TX, June 28-July 3. Lydia competed in the performance-based Client Services Event. For this event, Lydia demonstrated skills in interacting with internal and external clients to provide an outstanding client service experience. As the client service consultant Lydia was asked to engage clients in conversations regarding products, handle inquiries, solve problems, uncover opportunities for additional assistance, demonstrate poise and display critical-thinking skills. Lydia advanced to 1st place at the state level and competed nationally against students from 50 states to place 10th in the nation. National winners for 1st through 3rd place in the Client Services competition were awarded cash prizes of up to $1,500. Prior to competing Lydia and Audrey Marshall (advisor) took part in an FBLA service learning opportunity by volunteering with FBLA members from around the US at the San Antonio Food Bank (SAFB). As volunteers, FBLA members completed 4 community service hours with the San Antonio Food Bank Summer Food Service Program (SFSP) to prepare meals for over 58,000 people from 16 counties in the San Antonio region. In the fall, Auburn High FBLA members will be encouraged to “like” the San Antonio Food Bank on Facebook so that the SAFB will receive a dollar for every “like” to be used to fight against hunger in the San Antonio region. Shown are Lydia West and Audrey Marshall, FBLA advisor.
Aubie Wins Mascot Championship
Congratulations to Aubie, the UCA 2012 National Champion! The victory is Aubie's 7th UCA National Mascot Championship.
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A Page in a Book
by Paige Gardner Smith
Kids Who Want It All
When children are very small, we work hard to give them everything they want. Food, love, words, experiences…everything they need to grow into the amazing person we know they’ll become. But when kids get old enough to experience the ‘I want’ phase, the innocent greed for all the other things that aren’t important - but still very desirable – that’s when the give and take changes. Teaching children the difference between greed and need is an ongoing process. Cultivating an early understanding of ‘want’ and tempering a child’s greed impulse with the following titles can help young ones navigate their instinctual desire to get…well, everything.
Betty Bunny Wants Everything
by Michael B. Kaplan, Illustrated by Stephanie Jorisch (Dial Books for Young Readers) When young Betty Bunny goes to the toy store with her family, she’s told she can pick out one thing for herself. Her siblings each choose one item (her thrifty older brother, Bill, opts for the cash instead), but Betty piles the cart high with everything. When she’s told to choose only one item, she throws a tantrum in the store and has to leave. At home, Betty learns about limits and gets to return to the store later, with a small amount of money to spend. How she shops (and behaves) the second time, shows her beginning understanding of a budget – and self-control. Perfect for sharing with kids who have enthusiastic ‘I want’ tendencies, this title is an entertaining lesson in restraint.
All for Me, And None for All
by Helen Lester, Illustrated by Lynn Munsinger (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) Gruntly is a pig with a greedy streak a mile long. Not only does he want everything for himself, he covets anything that his friends have, and isn’t shy about grabbing their goods as well. In short, he’s a hog. When Gruntly spies a sign advertising a treasure hunt in the park, it sounds perfect for him. But when his greed to beat his friends to the treasure causes him to miss important clues, Gruntly finds he’s the last to arrive at the treasure site. Will his friends leave any treasure for him or will he have to snatch their rewards? Benefiting from a lesson by his friends’ example, Gruntly gets more than he expected at the end of the hunt!
More
by I.C. Springman, Illustrated by Brian Lies (Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) With a centuries-old reputation for collecting shiny things, the magpie featured in ‘More’ is no exception to the acquisitive nature of his breed. Picking up every kind of odd object and curiosity, the magpie collects more and more ‘stuff’ to bring home to the nest. Marbles and pennies, keys and combs, his nest is soon overflowing with too many things. Reaching a breaking point, the magpie finally accepts help from a few small friends to lighten his load while keeping just enough to make a magpie happy. Beautifully illustrated with sparse text, this book shares the results of wanting too much – and getting it.
Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.
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Six Steps to Starting a
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Book Club
by Cindy Hudson
Reading with your daughter is a great way to gain insight into her world. While talking about characters in a book, she’s more likely to open up with you about issues that are important to her that may not otherwise come up in day-to-day life. Sharing good books can also be a lot of fun. You can make joint reading more social by forming a mother-daughter book club. These reading groups have been growing in popularity during the last decade, and it’s easy to see why. Among the many benefits you may enjoy, book clubs help you to: * Stay close to your daughter as she grows * Connect with others in the community around you, including other moms and daughters, teachers, librarians, and more * Encourage your daughter to read for fun, an important factor in overall literacy Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
With a little bit of thought and planning, you could have a book club ready to go in no time. Here are six steps to get you started.
more time for each person to talk during discussion, and fewer people means fewer schedules to consult when you’re choosing your next meeting date.
1. First, make sure your daughter is ready for a book club. The
3. Next, consider whom you may want to invite. You can start by asking
ideal age is about nine. At this age, girls are often able to read on their own, enjoy spending time with their moms, and like being with their friends. You can start earlier if you keep the books simple or have the moms read to the girls. And your daughter’s never too old to get started as long as she’s interested.
2. Second, think about how big you would like your group to be.
Do you feel more comfortable in a crowd, or do you prefer more intimate gatherings? Larger groups can be more open, with new people invited to join all the time. Meetings may be at a fixed time for whoever’s available to attend. Smaller groups provide 30
one other mom and daughter you feel close to, and then asking them if they have ideas for others to join. You could also tap members of a school class, Girl Scout troop, or church group. You’ll probably want to define a few expectations. For instance, everyone in the group should know that as it’s a mother-daughter book club, mothers and daughters should both plan to attend meetings and read the books.
4. Once you know who will be in your club, you can decide where you’ll plan to gather on a regular basis. Will you trade off going to each
other’s homes? Will you meet at a library or in a bookstore? Consider too, whether Advertising: 334-209-0552
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you want to serve a meal or snacks at a meeting.
5. Now’s the time to talk about choosing books. You can let the girls
decide what to read, or let the moms and daughters select titles together, but I don’t recommend having the moms alone choose. It’s important for girls to know they have a voice in the process, and they’re not just reading what their moms think they should read. Other ideas that may help you choose books include picking a theme, focusing on a genre, reading from book lists (i.e. award winners), and getting recommendations from librarians or booksellers.
6. The last step is to talk about what you’d like to do when you get together. You’ll definitely want to include time for socializing in addition to discussing the book. You may also want to consider playing games or making bookrelated crafts. It all depends on how much energy your book club members want to put into planning your meetings.
Cindy Hudson is the author of Book by Book: The Complete Guide to Creating Mother-Daughter Book Clubs (Seal Press, October 2009). Find more ideas and recommendations for book clubs at www. motherdaughterbookclub.com.
6 Can’t Miss Titles to Get Your Book Club Started
Al Capone Does My Shirts by Gennifer Choldenko Moose Flanagan is finding it hard adjusting to life on Alcatraz Island where his dad became a guard in 1935. He hopes to make new friends, but how can he be a regular kid when he has to help care for his severely autistic sister, Natalie? 11 Birthdays by Wendy Mass Amanda and Leo are best friends who have shared birthday celebrations every year since they were born. When an argument keeps them apart on their eleventh birthday, they find themselves waking to relive their birthday every day until they solve their problem. Granny Torrelli Makes Soup by Sharon Creech Granny Torrelli ladles up life lessons from her childhood in Italy to help her granddaughter Rosie mend a rift with her best friend Bailey. Flipped by Wendelin Van Draanen Juli and Bryce have totally different perspectives on the same events. Chapters flip back and forth between the two as they explore two sides of issues that have occurred since they met years before. Framed by Frank Cottrell Boyce Dylan Hughes is the only boy left in Manod, a grey Welsh town with a dwindling population. When world famous art arrives there for storage in an old mine, the masterpieces inspire Dylan and the town’s eccentric characters to create great changes in themselves and Manod. The Mother-Daughter Book Club by Heather Vogel Frederick Megan, Jess, Cassidy and Emma can’t believe their moms signed them up for a book club together; they’re not even sure they like each other. But as they read and talk about Little Women, they get to know each other beyond the image they each have at school.
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Craft ng & Cook ng with Kids
by Dana Moonan
Aren’t They Grand? Celebrating Grandparents One special holiday right in the middle of September is Grandparent’s Day and is always the Sunday after Labor Day. This year it will fall on Sunday, September 9. This is a great chance to tell your grandmothers, grandfathers or special elderly people in your life how much they mean to you. Making something from the heart is always a special treat.
Ideas with Flowers
The national flower for Grandparent’s Day is the forget-me-not. You can plant these flowers in a special pot or wrap up several packets of seeds along with gardening gloves to plant in the spring. You can purchase a clay pot at any hardware store and personalize in many ways. Let your child paint a picture of his choice on the pot. You can paint your child’s handprints or thumbprints on the pot and make them into flowers (add a stem and leaves). Or write a poem or Bible verse that wraps around the pot. When you have completed your pot, make sure that you use a finish spray (clear spray protectant) over top to seal your design. This will help protect it from water and the weather outside. Another great spin on the painted pot is a painted bird bath. You will need a large clay pot and its saucer. Place the pot upside down with the saucer on top and hot glue or super glue the saucer to the pot. And there you have a free standing bird bath. You can personalize in any way you would like. Spray painting will cover the whole pot and saucer most easily, but brush painting is not a bad idea either. You can paint the base one color and the top another. Use stencils to help draw pictures as well. Don’t forget to spray with a clear finish Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
to protect your design.
All About Grandma and Grandpa
Help your child to come up with a list of questions to ask Grandma and Grandpa. For example, “Where did you grow up?” “What was your favorite toy?” “What was your favorite food?” You can have your child write out the questions or type them on the computer and put in a binder or folder. Get together with your child’s grandparents and ask the questions, and then have your child answer the same questions and compare the answers. Or make the questions and answers into a book. You can make a title page, a table of contents, a picture of your grandparents drawn by your child, and a ‘then and now’ comparison sheet. You might call it, “The Story of My Grandparents,” and it will be a great keepsake for everyone.
Easy Gifts for Younger Children
An easy and cute idea for a grandparent gift is to make a fan. Take any color paper and fold accordion style back and forth until you have a paper fan. Make a card that says, “To Grandma! From your biggest FAN!” A bookmark is also an easy to make gift. You will need a piece of 8 ½ x 11 32
cardstock in the color of your choice. Cut a strip about 2 inches wide down the length of the paper. Decorate with stickers, thumbprint art (you can make flowers or hearts using your thumbprint dipped in paint) or a small picture of your child. Then take to a copy shop and laminate for durability.
Dinner and Dessert
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If you are lucky enough to live near your child’s grandparents, invite them over for a special meal. Make their favorite dinner, and for dessert make an old fashioned treat of apple pie and vanilla ice cream. Or set up a penny candy stand. Most stores sell candy in smaller pieces and bags. Display in small glass jars or bowls. Or visit The Cracker Barrel for a big selection of licorice, taffy, rock candy and other old fashioned treats. Let your child(ren) serve at the penny candy stand. If your grandparents live far away, send a sweet treats care package with a variety of different types of candy in a bowl. You can also encourage your children to make cards or bake cookies for a nearby retirement home. What better place to celebrate Grandparent’s Day than a home full of grandmas and grandpas. If you have a special grandpa or grandma who is deceased, plant a tree in their honor. Dana Moonan is a former first grade teacher and current stay-at-home mom of three, Emily and Matthew, and Abby.
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Public Library Activities Auburn Public Library 749 East Thach Avenue, Auburn (334) 501-3190; www.auburnalabama.org/LIBRARY/
Weekly Programs:
**Note: No Story Times September 4th-6th.** Baby Lapsit – Tuesdays @ 9:30 a.m. for ages Birth – 12 months; First Steps Storytime – Tuesdays @ 10:30 a.m. for ages 12–24 months; Toddler Time – Wednesdays @ 10 a.m. for ages 18 months – 3 years; Preschool Story Time – Thursdays @ 10 a.m. for ages 3 – 5 years; Tween Movie Day – Every Tuesday in July at 2 p.m.; Rising 5th-8th grades – Join us for a family-friendly movie each week.; Salmagundi© – Every Wednesday in July at 2 p.m.; Rising K-5th grades – Featuring a variety of entertainers each week. Lego® Day – Every Friday in July – Ages 5-13 years.; Legos® for Young Adults – Every Saturday in July for Rising 9th grade and up
Monthly Programs:
Diary of a Library Kid – Wednesday, September 5th at 3:30 p.m. for grades K–5; Puppet Show – Tuesday, September 11th at 3:30 p.m. for ages 3–10; American Girl’s Club – Thursday, September 20th at 3:30 p.m. for grades K–5; Lego® Play – Every Saturday in September from 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. for ages 4 – 12. Join us every Saturday of the month all day for “free play” with Legos®.
Fall Reading Programs:
• “Clue In To Reading”; Registration: September 1–30 Children will receive one prize from the treasure chest for every hour spent reading. At the end of the program, all children who meet their goals will be awarded a grand prize! Clue In To Reading ends November 30th.
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Lewis Cooper Memorial Library 200 South 6th St., Opelika (334) 705-5380; www.opelika.org Story Time With Tim – Mondays, 10-10:20 a.m., for ages 2-4 Story Quest – Wednesdays at 1:30 p.m. for ages 4 and up Cooper Fun House – Last Friday of month, 3:30 - 4:45 p.m., for grades 3rd-5th. Join the Crew as we play games, have fun and win prizes! Library Teen Thing – A positive peer group for teens to promote reading and actions to become a citizen with character. Every other Thursday, 6:30-7:45 p.m., for ages 13-17
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Dave Says...
By Dave Ramsey
Best Uses for Baby’s Birthday Money Q.
What’s the best way to save or use money given to a baby as a birthday present?
A. I think it depends on your financial situation along with your plans and goals. If you’re at a place where you can’t afford necessities, then there’s absolutely nothing wrong with using birthday money for food, diapers or clothes. That’s not a fun answer, but sometimes you have to do whatever it takes to properly care for your family. If money isn’t a big issue though, you’re left with figuring out a plan. In our case, we invested lots of it toward their college funds. Then we taught them to save for other things themselves. For instance, we didn’t buy any of our kids their first cars. But we did agree to match whatever they saved
when it came to this purchase. There’s also nothing wrong with just setting up a simple savings account and watching it grow. As they get older, you can involve them in the process and begin to teach them about the three uses for money: spending, saving and giving. And if you start something like this when they’re really little, chances are they’ll already have a nice pile of money already stashed away when they become old enough for those teachable moments. The point is to have a plan. Once you have a definite idea in mind, it’s a lot easier to achieve the goal!
Q. Is it worth the time and effort to use coupons, or are they just a waste of time and a ploy to get you to buy things?
A.
Coupons are definitely a ploy to entice you to buy something you may not have purchased otherwise. But that doesn’t mean they’re bad things. The practical and sensible application of coupons can definitely help you save money. The main things to watch out for when using coupons are overbuying and spending your money on things you don’t really need. Seriously, you don’t need to hit Sam’s or Costco and walk out with nine gallons of mustard. I’ve even heard of people buying things they know they don’t like just because it was on sale or they had a coupon. I mean, how dumb is that? I guess there is a time factor involved in collecting coupons, especially if you still like to clip them from the newspapers or flyers that come in the mail. Plenty of folks still do that every week. I think online coupons are a lot easier to search for and save though. There’s a company I love called eMeals that will work with you to plan recipes and also give you information on coupons and sales in your area to make the meals. I’m definitely not anti-coupon, but at the same time couponing alone won’t change your family tree. It’s like any other tool. If used in a smart way, it can help you save money. And that’s not a bad thing!
Dave is the author of The New York Times bestselling book Financial Peace. He is also the host of the nationally syndicated The Dave Ramsey Show. You can hear Dave online at www.daveramsey. com. Send your questions to askdave@ daveramsey.com. He resides with his wife Sharon and their three children, Denise, Rachel, and Daniel, in Nashville, Tennessee.
Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
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Jule Collins smith museum of fine Art Auburn university
JCsm.Auburn.edu Art Interrupted: Advancing American Art and the politics of Cultural diplomacy September 8, 2012 through January 5, 2013 The exhibition, accompanying catalogue, educational programs, and national tour of Art Interrupted: Advancing American Art and the Politics of Cultural Diplomacy are made possible by grants from the Henry Luce Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts as part of American Masterpieces: Three Centuries of Artistic Genius.
IMAGE: Arthur Dove, Grey-Greens, 1942, wax emulsion on canvas, Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, Auburn University;Advancing American Art Collection 1948.1.11. Copyright the Estate of Arthur G. Dove, 35 Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com courtesy Terry Dintenfass, Inc.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
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suggestions from parents who have been there and what they’ve learned along the way. Kim Stagliano, mother of three daughters who all have autism, is somewhat of an expert on the subject. She’s even written a book on the topic. All I Can Handle; I’m No Mother Teresa is funny, sad, and informative as she chronicles her experiences with her daughters. When asked what helped her get through the worst of times, she agreed there were moments when all she could do was hope. Stagliano suggests parents let their emotions take course; if you need to cry, do it. It can be cathartic. She remembers feeling like a hamster on an exercise wheel, exhausted, but knowing three little girls needed her care. There will not be an end to the demands, so you need to learn to deal with it. To start, build yourself a support system. While family members or neighbors can offer love and hopefully periodic babysitting, parents also need to find families with similar circumstances. Find national websites that provide information and research, but one that also offers an online community so you can “chat” with parents whose needs mirror your own. Through these websites you may also find therapy tips, nutrition and diet information, and possible social outlets for you and your family. Also, check into local support groups near you.
Strategies for Stress
Challenges of Raising a Child With Special Needs by Julia Derkovitz
Parenting a child with a disability comes with its own set of unique frustrations. The exhaustion might be tripled, evaluations and assessments are scary and stressful, and there may not be one best way to move forward with therapy. Fortunately, most mothers of Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
children with disabilities are positive, proactive, and energetic. They lead support groups, are activists in the special education community, and are champions for their children. However, even the most optimistic of these mothers have struggled with anxiety and worry at one time or a hundred. Here are some 36
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Julie McAllister, mother of one child with Aspergers Syndrome and one child with food allergies, has had her share of depression. Before her children were diagnosed, she began to feel lonely, guilty, and isolated as she did her best to raise her sons. There was very little sleeping going on at her house, and between the exhaustion and her sons’ mysterious meltdowns, Julie rarely left her home. Finally, she began treating her depression by making selfcare a priority. She focused on nutrition, and sought the help of educated professionals. Because she made time for herself, she had more energy and enthusiasm for her family. Kim echoes Julie’s sentiment about needing to have a life. While taking an exercise class or going out with friends might be best, that involves finding child care, which can be tricky. If the only option is watching a favorite television program or reading a good book, do it. To maintain the endurance necessary of raising a child with special needs, it’s important to lose yourself in another world from time to time. It’s in those moments you might determine what you need for yourself, whether it’s rearranging the therapy schedule, help with chores, or getting out of the house by yourself for an hour or two a week. Another helpful suggestion is to find an activity that includes special assistance that your whole family can enjoy. One example is PEAC, or Programs to Educate all Cyclists. PEAC assists individuals with disabilities to develop cycling skills for recreation, fitness, and transportation. Another popular activity is horseback riding. Therapeutic Riding Facilities are common, and children who never thought to get on a horse are amazed at the independence and enjoyment riding can offer. Explore the internet, ask questions, and keep an open mind. Finding a new family hobby can bring a feeling of accomplishment, bonding, and fun. It won’t always be easy, but there is help. Look closely through the Special Needs Resource Guide directly following this article to find support groups, activities and information. Julia is a freelance writer living in western New York. Her passion for writing is second only to her passion for her family. Contact her with your stories at juliagarstecki@gmail.com.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Special Needs Resource Guide Local Community Resources RehabWorks 4 Kids
528-1964. A service of East Alabama Medical Center. We offer pediatric physical, occupational and speech therapies to children 0-18 yrs of age with a variety of diagnoses including: cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorders, developmental delay, receptive-expressive language delays/disorders, feeding/swallowing disorders, sensory integration disorders, torticollis, augmentative communication needs, sensorymotor group that meets weekly for 3-week sessions throughout the year & referrals to other community resources. For more info contact: kelly.shaw@eamc. org.
The Little Tree Preschool
421 Opelika Rd., Auburn, (334)826-1847; www.learning-tree.org/preschools.html; The Little Tree Preschool’s mission is focused on improving the services for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders and other developmental disabilities throughout Alabama. This is achieved by providing intensive, behavioral intervention (also known as ABA/Applied Behavior Analysis) in a setting with typically developing children serving as peer models. In addition to training students, The Little Tree Preschool’s offer an intensive training sequence for public school teachers in assessment, behavior management techniques, empirically validated teaching procedures, data collection and tracking progress. We support parents by providing weekly parent training and assistance dealing with issues in the home. Licensed by the Department of Human Resources and are approved to house 18 children in our classrooms, 9 typically developing children and 9 children with ASD or developmental delay. Classes Monday-Friday; 7:45 am- 3:00pm.
Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
All for Children- 2290 Moores Mill Road, Suite 400, Auburn. (334)209-2009: www.all-forchildren. com; private practice providing the children of this area quality speech, language and literacy intervention. American Cancer Society- Relay For Life of Lee County- www.relayforlife.org/leeal Support Groups-Bossum Buddies:EAMC Health Resource Center – Opelika; (334)288-3432 Caregiver Support:8:30 am – 10:00am;Oak Park Dining Room,1365 Gatewood Drive, Auburn.3rd Thursday of the Month. For more information or to reserve your spot,contact: Cheri Rudgers (334)8261899. TOUCH (Today Our Understanding of Cancer is Hope). This general cancer support group is for survivors and their family and caregivers.East Alabama Health Resource Center - Opelika (334)288-3432 I Can Cope- EAMC Health Resource Center – Opelika; (334)288-3432. General cancer educational program for recently diagnosed cancer patients. Look Good…Feel Better- (334)288-3432. Free program conducted by cosmetologists to improve appearance related side effects of cancer. Sessions conducted as cancer patients request services and as cosmetologists are available. Session dates: September 16, November 18, & January 20. Registration required. American Cancer Society -Montgomery- 3054 McGehee Rd, Montgomery (334)288-3432.Offers free wigs, turbans, and hats to cancer patients. Appointments are not necessary. Auburn University- Auburn University Autism
Center was established in August 2003 with the vision of providing much needed services to individuals with autism spectrum disorder, their families, schools, and other agencies whose goal is
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to optimize the potential of individuals with autism. This vision translates into a model demonstration site for best practice; diagnostic services for children with autism spectrum disorder; training for families, teachers, and related professionals; outreach consultation; and research opportunities relative to effective intervention strategies. www.auburn.edu; The Autism Center provides: a model demonstration site for best practice education of persons with autism spectrum disorder,diagnostic services for children with autism spectrum disorder, outreach consultation services for families, schools and agencies that serve people with autism spectrum disorder, training for families, teachers and related professionals, and research opportunities relative to effective intervention strategies for people with autism spectrum disorder. Best Buddies- a non-profit organization helping to enrich the lives of those with an intellectual disability. We match up Auburn college students with those in the community with an intellectual disability and help their friendship grow. We have monthly socials/ events for college buddies to bring their best buddies to, and it is a way to integrate the mentally disabled into our community and make them feel comfortable and loved. Kaitlyn Teresa Croughwell, ktc0005@ auburn.edu; Caroline Dunn, dunnca1@auburn.edu. www.auburn.edu/bestbuddies The Summer Learning Clinic is an intensive fourweek program that the Department of Rehabilitation and Special Education offers for students with mild learning problems, learning disabilities, behavioral difficulties and/or autism spectrum disorders. Since 1990, over 2,900 such students have received individually designed tutorial instruction through this outreach program. Instruction for students ages 6-13 is offered in reading, math, and language arts, with emphasis on areas of concern for individual students. Doris Hill, 844-2004; hilldol@auburn.edu, Margaret Flores, 844-2107; mmf0010@auburn.edu, or Carol
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Autism Society of Alabama- The Autism Society of Alabama (ASA) responds daily to requests for information. 1-877-4AUTISM. Parent Support-ASA has support groups to address a variety of issues. Monthly meetings in a variety of settings throughout the state provide support and information, guest speakers, informative topics, and question and answer sessions. Lending Library- ASA has over 400 books and media on autism spectrum disorders that are available to our members. Items can be checked out through the office at 4217 Dolly Ridge Road, Birmingham, AL 35243. If you have books on autism that you are willing to donate or for info on our lending library, please call 1-877-4AUTISM. ASA collaborates with various state and local agencies to increase awareness in the community, schools, and in the medical and professional arenas to promote education, understanding, resources, and to encourage the early diagnosis of autism. October 7, 201114th Annual FROG Affair. 6:00-10:00pm; WorkPlay, Birmingham, Al. Silent and live auctions, live music. Ticket info, Jennifer Robertson at jennifer02@ autism-alabama.org or 251-259-5553.
Easter Seals Alabama- consists of eight com-
munity rehabilitation program sites and the world’s largest barrier free recreational camp Camp ASCCA. Easter Seals Alabama services include: Medical Rehabilitation, Early Intervention, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech and Hearing Therapy, Job Training and Employment, Child Care & Camping and Recreation. Opelika, Al.- Easter Seals Achievement Center- 510 W Thomason Circle, Opelika, Alabama 36801; (334) 745-3501 Jackson’s Gap- Camp ASCCA Easter Seals- 5278 Camp ASCCA Drive, Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861; (256)825-9226 or 800-843-2267. A special place where campers with disabilities have the opportunity
Brain jogging & Camp Academia- 1507 Vernon Road, LaGrange, Ga. And 1022 2nd Avenue, Columbus, Ga. 706 884-4492; www.campacademia. com; Areas of focus:Dyslexia, language processing deficiencies, ADD/ADHD, autism spectrum disorders and processing speed. Camp Academia has four pri-
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Cast Ministries.org- Auburn, Al. (334)332-8411 and (334)821-1000. Amputee Support- If you or someone you love has suffered a loss of limb, we invite you to join our “team” as we learn to turn our weaknesses into our strengths. The Christian Amputee Support Team is committed to: “pursuing abundant life for amputees through the love of Christ.”
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mary programs designed to help your child achieve his or her potential: Consultation / Testing Services– Full evaluation of your child’s strengths and weaknesses in learning utilizing both formal and informal methods and recommendations for charting their educational path. Brainjogging– Camp Academia’s research-based learning tool is designed to enhance learning efficiency and proficiency by “exercising” weak areas of the brain. Camps– Three-day residential camps and Summer Booster Sessions are designed to evaluate and prepare your child for the upcoming school year.
absorbed by the new center. In addition, the new center will collaborate on projects with the Auburn Transition Leadership Institute, which provides support to youths with disabilities by providing continuous improvement resources to assist with their transition to adulthood.
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Nelson, 844-9999; nelsoc4@auburn.edu. Speech and Hearing Clinic- Haley Center (334) 844-9600. offers screening tests for the general public free of charge each semester. The clinic performs audiological and speech-language evaluations, aural rehabilitation support and other clinical services for children and adults. Speech and language assessements related to language/speech delay, developmental delay, autism, cleft palate, stuttering, voice disorders, feeding/swallowing, and literacy. Auditory treatments include hearing aid selection and dispensing, assistive listening devices, and auditory rehabilitation. Support groups in our area: Auburn/ Opelika Parkinson Disease Support Group: Dan Phillips, dep0006@auburn.edu or (334) 844-9631. Rebounders Stroke Support Group: Laura Willis, lbg0003@auburn.edu or (334) 844-9529. Stuttering Awareness Group: Embry Burrus, burruae@auburn. edu or (334) 844-9689 Motor Behavior Lab- in the Department of Health and Human Performance provides a motor development program for kindergarten children with low motor proficiency. (334) 844-4483 The Center for Disability Research and Service- 215 S. Donahue Dr. in the Dawson Building, Auburn University Campus. offering additional resources to improve the lives of Alabama citizens with significant disabilities. Housed in the Dawson Building, the center is an extension of the Department of Special Education, Rehabilitation, Counseling/School Psychology in the College of Education and will focus on developing initiatives in autism and developmental disabilities, assistive technology, program evaluation and employment and community support. Research relating to autism spectrum disorder will expand on the work previously conducted by the Auburn University Autism Center, which has been
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
to express their individuality and independence within a carefully supervised setting. Their families also are provided with a chance to relax in the knowledge that over thirty years of experience goes into providing a safe environment where fun can be had by all. The activities offered at Camp ASCCA include horseback riding, swimming, canoeing, fishing, arts and crafts, rappelling, zip-line, water tubing, archery and rifle range, mini-golf course, paved nature trails, and more. www.campascca.org Montgomery- Easter Seals Central Alabama- 2125 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, AL 36116; (334)288-0240
H.A.P.I.E.- Helping Auburn Parents -Intervening Early- 721 East University Drive, Auburn. 887-4950. A preschool program designed to deliver special education services to ages 3-5 years. Two playgroups offered: Morning Group- Monday-Thursday 7:4510:15am and Afternoon Group- Monday-Friday 10:30am-1:30pm. For a child that is determined eligible (according to the Alabama Administrative Code-for Special Education), services are provided at no cost to the family, if the child receives these services as part of their specifically designed instruction. Peer Models are children that participate in the program without an Individualized Education Plan and provide appropriate behavior, play and language skills as a model in the learning process. Monthly fee for peer models. Hospice of East Alabama Medical Center665 Opelika Road, Auburn, AL. (334) 826-1899; 1-800-303-4677; Hospice treats the whole person instead of the disease. Its focus is on the family as well as the individual. Hospice emphasizes quality of life rather than duration. The patient’s pain is treated aggressively, and suffering is recognized and dealt with by members of the interdisciplinary team. The patient’s final wishes are attended to, and efforts are made to allow terminally ill patients and their families to remain together in peace, comfort, and dignity as they experience the end of life. Hospice services extend to any location: a home, the hospital, an assisted living facility, Bethany House, or a nursing home. Our goal at Hospice of EAMC is to help our patients live fully by managing pain and symptoms so that their days are filled with more joy and comfort. We seek to provide patients and their families with physical, emotional, social and spiritual support throughout their journey. Hospice of EAMC now serves parts of eight counties within a 50-mile radius of its office in Auburn, AL. Hospice of EAMC is the only area hospice linked directly with the services and support of East Alabama Medical Center. We can offer seamless transitioning of patients from inpatient care to their own homes or to a nursing home if needed. In His Hands: Special Friends Ministry- Lakeview Baptist Church. 1600 East Glenn
Avenue, Auburn. 887-7094; www.lakeviewbaptist. org. Program designed to help families who have children with special needs be able to worship together while their children are shown and taught about the love of Christ by familiar adults. Our goal is to form teams of buddies for each special friend that will assist them on Sunday mornings. Buddies will volunteer on a weekly or monthly rotation. For more information or to sign your child up for a buddy, please contact Emily Waldrop 887-6624; emtigers@aol.com or Carrie Fellows 821-3762; auburntiger7@netzero.
Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Little Learners Preschool – Autism Hope
Center- 706-604-NEED. P.O. Box 6028, Columbus, Ga. Bob Babcock, Ph.D., Director. Model preschool program based on ABA. Accepts TRICARE’s ECHO demonstration program. Children from within Muscogee County and outside are accepted.
March of Dimes Alabama Chapter- Birming-
ham, Al. (205) 824-0103; www.marchofdimes.com; Central Division in Montgomery, Al. (334) 277-6910.
Opelika Lions Club- www.opelikalions.org.
Service league providing support for diabetic awareness, sight conservation and The Miracle League Ball Field for Children with Disabilities.
Storybook Farms- 300 Cusseta Road - Opelika,
AL 36801 - (334) 444-5966. www.hopeonhorseback. org; The year-round equine assisted activities are tailored to serve children ages 2 years to young adults who are challenged with life-threatening illnesses, disabilities, mental and/or emotional trauma, and grief. The gentle nature of our horses provides hope and healing. In addition to our “hope on horseback” riding programs, Storybook Farm also provides weekly Enrichment Classes for local school system’s inclusive special education classes, “Forever Families” quarterly events for families created by adoption or fostering, as well as annual events such as Easter Eggstravaganza, SBF Horse Show, Fall Festival, and the Christmas Celebration.
The Alabama Institute for Deaf and BlindServing Lee County and the surrounding area. Missy Byrd (205)306-8800. Byrd.Missy@aidb.state.al.us Alabama School for the Blind- 705 South Street East, Talladega, Al.(256) 761-3260 Alabama School for the Deaf- 205 South Street East, Talladega, Al. (256) 761-3278 Hellen Keller School of Alabama- 1101 Fort Lashley Avenue, Talladega, Al. (256) 761-3377 The Marianna Greene Henry Special Equestrian Program- Talladega, Alabama has a covered indoor arena and a 3/4 mile Sensory Trail for students from preschool age to middle age for both therapeutic and recreational riding year round. mgheques@aidb.state. al.us The Exceptional Outreach Organization- Van Northcutt, 300 North Dean Road, Auburn. A nonprofit organization, comprised of 8 board members, whose ultimate goal is to raise funds to sponsor and support Special Olympics of Lee County, City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Therapeutic Summer Camp, Best Buddies of Auburn University, Premier Athletics Shinning Stars Therapeutic Cheerleading Team and Friends for Life. February 18, 2012: 23rd Annual Love Your Heart Run/Crank Your Heart Ride. Chewacla State Park, Auburn. The premier fundraising event benefiting children and adults with special needs that participate in Lee County Special Olympics, Best Buddies of Auburn University, Premier Athletics Shinning Knights Therapeutic Cheerleading Team and Friends for Life. Participants may run or walk the event! The East Alabama Mental Health-Mental Retardation Board, Inc.: Family and Children’s
Services-2300 Center Hills Dr., Building II; Opelika, AL 36801; (334) 742-2112. A public non-profit corporation established in 1967. The Center is a comprehensive community mental health center that provides a continuum of services for persons with a
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serious emotional disturbance, developmental delay, mental illness, mental retardation, and/or substance abuse problem. Prevention, consultation, and education are important aspects of the Center’s service delivery system. Services are provided to persons living or working in Lee, Russell, Chambers, and Tallapoosa Counties and are prioritized to serve the most severely disabled and those least able to afford services. CHINS Intervention Program-The Center provides a range of services for children residing in Lee County who have been, or are at risk of being adjudicated CHINS (Child in Need of Supervision). These children display behavior problems such as truancy, breaking curfew, and refusing to follow the rules at school and at home. ABC Child Development Center- The ABC (Actively Believing in Children) Child Development Center provides intensive services for toddlers and preschool children with autism or pervasive developmental disorders in an integrated child care setting. Godparent Project -The Godparent Project provides parenting education, life skills training, and referral to community resources for pregnant and parenting adolescents. Special Deliveries-The Special Deliveries program provides parent education, support, and referral services for families of infants and toddlers. The program also provides intensive in-home family support services for at risk families of children ages 0 to 5. Other programs-Substance Abuse Prevention Programs, Parent Power, In-School Programs, After-School and Summer Alternative Programs, Family Strengthening Programs, Mommy and Me, & ACATA: Alliance Counteracting Alcohol and Tobacco Advertising.
The Sunshine Class- Farmville Baptist Church,
3607 AL. Hwy. 147 N., Auburn. 887-7361. Specially adapted for individuals with special needs to truly shine! We personalize the Bible and encourage a close and intimate relationship with Jesus through Bible stories, life experiences, prayer, and praise. Class meets downstairs in room 108 every Sunday morning from 10:00 - 11:30. For more information on the class and other possibilities for individuals with disabilities, please email office@farmvillebaptistchurch.org.
Recreation and Social Events Auburn Parks and Recreation Therapeutics Program- offers recreational activities, programs/
leagues, social activities and field trips for citizens who have mental and physical disabilities. We provide an opportunity for children and adults to build friendships in a fun, encouraging environment. The programs are designed to strengthen and “show off ” the participants’ abilities, rather than their disabilities. All programs are free, unless otherwise noted. The Therapeutics Program also supports and works with the Lee County and State of Alabama Special Olympics programs. If you are interested in finding out more information regarding our Therapeutics Program, please contact Dana Stewart at 501-2939. 2012 Fall Therapeutic Program Schedule: Monday – Bowling (Adult Athletes Only), 1-3 p.m., Sept 10- Nov 12, Auburn Lanes Monday – Special Olympics Swim Practice, 4:305:30 p.m., Starts Nov. 7, 2011, Opelika SportsPlex Monday – Gymnastics, 6-7 p.m., Sept 10 – Dec 10,
Advertising: 334-209-0552
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Premier Spirit Academy Thursday – Bingo, Fun & Games, 5:30- 6:30 p.m., Sept 13- Dec 13, Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center Thursday – Zumba Dance & Fitness, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Sept 13-Dec 13. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center Friday – Special Olympics Basketball Practice, 3:45– 4:45 p.m., Sept. 7 – Dec 14, Frank Brown Recreation Center Best Buddies Game Night- Tuesday, October 16; 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. Dean Road Recreation Center, Auburn. Join us for a night full of games, pizza, friendship and fun! Cosponsored by the AU Chapter of Best Buddies, game night will feature bingo and prizes, Uno, Checkers, and much, much more. We will provide pizza, drinks and snacks. Dana Stewart, 501-2939. Fee: Free to the public; however, you must pre-register with Lauren Swindle, President of Best Buddies- les0032 @tigermail.auburn.edu Shining Knights Cheer Team-Premier Spirit Academy and Auburn Parks and Recreation are proud to sponsor the Shining Knights Cheer Team. Formed in 2006, the Shining Knights are a competitive cheerleading team consisting of Special Need girls and boys, ages 8 and up. The cheerleaders travel and compete against other special needs teams from around the country. There are currently more than 65 special needs teams in 23 states. The Shining Knights practice each Monday from 6-7pm, beginning Sept 10. If this sounds like something your athlete would enjoy, please contact Frank Baugh at 821-7300 for more information.
Opelika Parks and Recreation
Basketball: Practice and enjoy organized games. Beginning September 24. Time: 1:00-3:00p.m. No fee. Contact David Scott with Opelika Parks and Recreation; Covington Center, 705-5550 Christmas Ball: December 14; 6:00 - 8:00 p.m. Program is designed to provide a social outlet for mentally challenged adults. Sponsored by: Opelika Parks & Recreation and EAMH-MR. David Scott with Opelika Parks and Rec. Covington Center. Expressions of a BraveHeart Program: Sponsored by Auburn University Social Work Program and the Opelika Parks and Recreation, Expressions of a BraveHeart is a fine arts program for youth and young adults (11-21 yrs. old) with special needs. Classes are held on 2nd and 4th Mondays from 5:307 p.m. and the program starts on Monday, Sept. 10. If you have questions, please contact Angie Burque, burquad@auburn.edu or John Huling, JHuling@ ci.opelika.al.us. Special Olympics Swim Team: Participants must be 8 years of age or older and have an intellectual disability. The team will practice on Mondays from 4:15-5:15pm at the Opelika SportsPlex and Aquatics Center. Organizational meeting, November 5, 5pm. Mandy Johnson, SportsPlex Aquatics Director, is head coach. For more information please contact John Huling at 705-5560 or by e-mail at JHuling@ opelika.net
The Miracle League of East Alabama- “Every
Child Deserves A Chance to Play Baseball.” West Ridge Park, Opelika. The Miracle League is an organization that provides the opportunity for persons of ALL AGES with cognitive or physical disabilities to play baseball. Giving ability a chance The Billy Hitchcock Miracle Field Complex — the largest of its kind in the country — will serve disabled people of all ages and their families from the East Alabama and West Georgia area.The complex is located along-
Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
side the other baseball fields and the playground area at West Ridge Park. The playground includes slides, tunnels, a sandbox and swings — even a tire swing — all completely accessible for the disabled. The baseball field includes a dugout, a handicapaccessible announcers’ box, as well as picnic tables and a pavilion.
Recreation Camps Camp Newhope & Camp Newsong-
(205)877-2224; www.alfoundationforoncology.org/ campnewsong.php; A free program open to all grieving children in Alabama. Camp sessions are held at the YMCA Hargis Retreat in Chelsea, Alabama for children ages 6-18.
Camp Shocco for the Deaf-1314 Shocco Springs Road, Talladega, AL. (256) 761-1100; www.campshocco.org; This camp gives every hearing impaired student, ages 8-high school, an opportunity to have an unforgettable week of fun, games, and spiritual growth. Not only that, they learn the essence of teamwork, while also developing their own unique abilities and talents that can often be overlooked. There is no language barriers, therefore, they are never excluded.
Camp Smile-a-Mile- 1-888-500-7920; www.
campsam.org; Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin, Al. Year round challenging, recreational and educational experiences for young cancer patients, their families as well as young adult survivors from Alabama at no cost. Our purpose is to provide these patients, families and survivors with avenues for fellowship,
to help them cope with their disease, and to prepare them for life after cancer.
Camp Sugar Falls & Camp Seale Harris- (205)402-0415; www.southeasterndiabetes.org.
provides our kids with the chance to learn about effective diabetes management, while at the same time allowing them to interact with other children living with this same illness.
Easter Seals Camp ASSCA- (256)825-9226; www.campascca.org. Alabama’s Special Camp for Children and Adults. ASCCA is a nationally recognized leader in therapeutic recreation for children and adults with both physical and mental disabilities. Providing weekend and week long sessions- open year-round. Located in Alabama on Lake Martin, offers campers a wide variety of recreational and educational activities. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a “splash pad”, outdoor adventure elements like the zip-line, and much more. Frog Camp- The Autism Society of Alabama. Camp ASCCA, Jackson’s Gap. Ages 6-18 years and their families. Scholorships available. www.autism-alabama.org Lakeshore Foundation- (205) 313-7400;
www.lakeshore.org; Offers a wide range of fitness, recreation, athletic and education programs to children and adults who experience diagnostic conditions including spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, stroke, amputation, and visual impairment.
Alabama Resources
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ADA Center- Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services. (334) 613-3471 (Montgomery office); (205) 290-4540 (Birmingham office); (800) 205-9986 (Alabama’s Toll Free Hotline for ADA Information); www.rehab.state.al.us/ada DBTAC - Southeast ADA Center; 1419 Mayson Street, Atlanta, GA 30324; (800) 949-4232; www. sedbtac.org Alabama’s Early Intervention System- Birth through 2- Department of Rehabilitation Services/ Division of Early Intervention- Montgomery, Al. (800) 543-3098; www.rehab.alabama.gov/ei
Blind or Visually Impaired, Deaf or Hard of Hearing, Deaf-Blind- www.AIDB.org Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind- Mobile , AL; (251) 432-7777 Alabama Department of Rehabilitation ServicesMontgomery, AL; (334) 281-8780
Career & Technical Education- Alabama
State Department of Education- Montgomery, AL; (334) 242-9111; www.alsde.edu/
Children with Disabilities- Ages 3 through 5- Contact Special Education. Transition Services/ Special Education Services -Alabama State Department of Education- Montgomery, AL; (334) 242-8114 www.alsde.edu Developmental Disabilities- Alabama Department of Mental Health-Montgomery, Al. (334)
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New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.
Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!
We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?
Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...
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1 & 2Week Sessions for Ages 6-16
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first I had campfires every night. Icamps felt close to God. giggled a lot is with friends and counselors. time flew by! thehorse. Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness... I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,
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We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.
B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS
• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •
• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T OWER • O UTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING •
Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
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Advertising: 334-209-0552
Vis
242-3107 or (334) 242-3701; www.mh.alabama. gov/
Special Format Library- Alabama Regional
Council for Developmental Disabilities -Montgomery, AL .(800) 232-2158; http://acdd.org
Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. 6030 Monticello Drive , Montgomery, AL 361306000; (800) 392-5671; http://statelibrary.alabama. gov/
Governor’s Office on Disabilities- Montgom-
Special Health Care Needs - Alabama De-
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Mental Health Rep. for Children/Youth- Office of Children’s Services/ Alabama Department of Mental Health-Montgomery, AL. (334) 353-7110; www.mh.alabama.gov
Technology- STAR (Statewide Technology Access
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Protection and Advocacy- Alabama Disabili-
ties Advocacy Program (ADAP)-The University of Alabama, Tuscaloosa, AL. (800) 826-1675 ; www. adap.net
Respite Care- is temporary short-term relief for
caregivers of individuals with special needs such as: developmental and physical disabilities or other chronic illnesses that are related to health concerns, medical fragility, or for those at risk of abuse and neglect. Alabama Lifespan Respite Resource NetworkAnniston, AL; (256-237-3683) http://alabamarespite. org Birmingham, Al. (205)991-0927; 1-866-RESTALA ; alabamarespite@aol.com
Special Education Services- Alabama Department of Education- Montgomery, Al. (800) 3928020; www.alsde.edu/
partment of Rehabilitation Services/ Children’s Rehabilitation Service- Montgomery , AL; (800) 441-7607 ; www.rehab.alabama.gov/crs
Disability-Specific Organizations Asthma & Allergies-Asthma & Allergy Foundation of America. 800-727-8462, www.aafa.org
Attention Deficit Disorder-To identify an ADD group in your state or locality, contact either: Children and Adults with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (CHADD). (800) 233-4050 (Voice mail to request information packet); www.chadd.org
and Response for Alabamians with Disabilities)Montgomery, AL; (800) 782-7656 ; www.rehab. alabama.gov/star
Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)- (800) 939-1019; info@add.org; www.
The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association- is committed to ensuring that all
Autism- Autism Society of Alabama- 4217 Dolly Ridge Road; Birmingham, AL 35243; (877) 4-AUTISM; (205) 951-1364; contact@autism-alabama.org; www.autism-alabama.org
people with speech, language, and hearing disorders receive services to help them communicate effectively. http://www.asha.org/public/
University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities- Civitan Interna-
tional Research Center-University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham, AL 35294-0021; (800) 822-2472; www.circ.uab.edu
Vocational Rehabilitation-Department of
Rehabilitation Services- Montgomery, Al. (334) 281-8780; www.rehab.alabama.gov/vrs Career and Technical Education- Montgomery, Al. (334) 242-9111; www.alsde.edu/
add.org
Blind/Visual Impairments- American Foundation for the Blind- (800) 232-5463; afbinfo@afb.net; www.afb.org Cerebral Palsy- United Cerebral Palsy of Greater Birmingham- (800) 654-4483; www.ucpbham.com Downs Syndrome- Down Syndrome AlabamaBirmingham; (205)988-0810; www.downsyndromealabama.org
Epilepsy- Epilepsy Foundation of Alabama- Mo-
bile, AL.- (800) 626-1582; www.epilepsyfoundation. org/
B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Food Allergies- The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network- www.foodallergy.org; October 1-FAAN Walk for Food Allergies. Brook Run Park (Dunwoody), 4770 N. Peachtree Rd., Atlanta, Ga. 9:00am. walkatlanta@foodallergy.org Head Injury- Alabama Head Injury FoundationHoover, AL. (800) 433-8002 ; www.ahif.org
Intellectual & Developmental DisabilitiesThe Arc of Alabama, Inc., Montgomery, AL. (866) 243-9557 info@thearcofalabama.com; www.thearcofalabama.com
Learning Disabilities-Learning Disabilities Association of Alabama-Montgomery, AL. (334) 277-9151; www.ldaal.org
United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile, Inc.Mobile, AL. (888) 630-7102; info@ucpmobile. org ; www.ucp.org/ucp_local.cfm/160
Organizations for Parents Exceptional Parent Magazine- www.eparent.com; Publishes monthly magazine for parents of children with disabilities and professionals providing services to children and families. Family Voices of Alabama- encourage
AL. (800) 626-4199; www.namialabama.org
families to develop individual partnerships with their children’s care providers, and to look for opportunities to impact systems change by working collaboratively with the many agencies in the state that care about services for children and youth with special needs; www.familyvoices.org
Speech and Hearing- Speech and Hearing
FighterMom™- is a program for any mom
Mental Health- NAMI Alabama-Montgomery,
Association of Alabama; (256) 325-8885; Info@ AlabamaSHAA.org www.alabamashaa.org
Spina Bifida - Spina Bifida Association of Alabama- Madison, Al. (256) 325-8600; www. sbaofal.org Tourette Syndrome-Tourette Syndrome As-
sociation Mid-South Regional Office-Auburn, AL .(334) 502-0055; http://tsa-usa.org/TSANatlLocal/Chapters/Midsouth.htm
Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
who not only cares for a child with a demanding disease or health condition, but who wants to get organized to defeat that condition by raising money, winning publicity, working with researchers, and making her case in Washington. www. fightermom.org
Food Allergy Support Group of East Alabama - www.foodallergysupporteastal.org;
bkg2007@bellsouth.net; FAAN Walk for Food Allergy in Atlanta; October 14, 2012. Join our team!
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May Center for Autism Spectrum Disorders- Pathways Educational Series: Guiding
families after an autism diagnosis. 6298 Veterans Pkwy, Suite 9B. Columbus, Ga. 706-571-7771. This FREE education series runs for eight consecutive weeks. Meetings last 90 minutes. Childcare is provided. The first four weeks are designed for parents of children newly diagnoses with an autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The second four weeks are designed for parents struggling to manage problem behaviors at home.
Parent to Parent USA- provide emotional and informational support to families of children who have special needs most notably by matching parents seeking support with an experienced, trained ‘Support Parent’. www.p2pusa.org
Parent Training and Information Center / Early Intervention Family Alliance- Alabama Parent Education Center (APEC)Wetumpka, AL. (866) 532-7660 www.alabamaparentcenter.com
Partners in Policymaking-Partners in Policymaking of Alabama- Montgomery, AL. (800) 846-3735; http://acdd.orgThe Epilepsy Foundation Parents Website- www.epilepsyandmychild. org/ The Sibling Support Project- a national ef-
fort dedicated to the life-long concerns of brothers and sisters of people who have special health, developmental, or mental health concerns. www. siblingsupport.org AOP
Advertising: 334-209-0552
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Family Calendar Ongoing:
A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an all-inclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-728-1162 or email: momofpnk@gmail.com. Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-705-8877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. August 10-September 2. Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Montgomery. www.asf.net. Ballet on the Green Maxwell Air Force Base, Montgomery. Sept. 25 - Oct. 13. Ballet performance for active and deployed military and their families. Free. www.montgomeryballet.org. Birmingham Children’s Theatre • The Frog Prince. July 24-August 4. BJCC, Birmingham. www.bjcc.org www.bct123.org. Bosom Buddies (a breast cancer support group) Meets at The Health Resource Center the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. (334) 528-1260. www.eamc.org. DeSoto Caverns August 1-31. ‘Beat the Heat’. Receive one free water attraction ticket with your on-site purchase of a cave tour, fun pack or 10 pack attraction package. www.desotocavernspark.com. Expressions of a BraveHeart Program A fine arts program for teens and young adults with special needs (ages 11-21), sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation, utilizing Auburn University faculty and students, as well as community volunteers. Two 30-minute sessions of art, dance/creative movement and music will be offered and participants will select 2 of the 3 classes. Expressions meets every 2nd and 4th Monday twice a month for 1.5 hours. Opelika Sportsplex, 334.705.5560. www.opelikasportsplex.com. Family Theatre • I Remember Mama. Aug. 17 - Sept. 1. • Charlotte’s Web. Sept. 28 - Oct. 13. Family Theatre, Columbus, Ga. www.familytheatre.org. Fox Theatre • Peter Pan. August 7-12. • The Addams Family (touring). August 14-19. • The Fresh Beat Band Live! August 26. Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com. Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art 2012 JCSM Membership Week, August 11-17. Become a member or renew your membership to experience the world of art JCSM brings to Auburn. Fun week for the whole family! www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that are waiting to adopt are welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net for more information. Legally Blonde: The Musical July 12-August 5. Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham. www.redmountaintheatre.org.
Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
August/September2012
McWane Science Center • Dora & Diego: Let’s Explore Exhibit The exhibit features beloved characters Dora and Diego from Nickelodeon’s preschool Dora series, along with their friends Boots, Map, Backpack, Isa, Tico, and of course Swiper, now in their own exhibit for children to explore as they learn and play along. Through Sept. 4. Birmingham. www.mcwane.org. Meditation Garden and Labyrinth Come and Find the Quiet Center... in the Meditation Garden and Labyrinth, provided as a community service by Village Christian Church, 700 East University Drive, (across from Auburn Early Ed.). 334-887-5111. Try the practice of walking meditation or simply sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. The garden and labyrinth are always open and guests are always welcome. Newnan Theatre • SEUSSICAL Family Musical. August 30 - Sept. 9. Main Stage Theatre, Newnan Theatre, Newnan, Ga. www.newnantheatre.org. Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974. Red Mountain Theatre Company • The Color Purple. Sept. 27 - Oct. 14. Red Mountain Theatre Company, Birmingham. www.redmountaintheatre.org. The Rock Ranch Fall Family Fun Days. Sept. 22 - Nov. 10. The Rock Ranch, Ga. 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Features more than 30 fun attractions, great food and live music. www.therockranch.com. Springer Opera House • Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing. Sept. 26 - Oct. 6. www.springeroperahouse.org.
Parents Support & Moms Groups
Auburn Mommies, a fun group of moms in the Auburn/ Opelika area that meet weekly for playgroups and Mommy and Me walking twice a week. We also have a Mommies Night Out once a month. Http://groups.yahoo. com/group/auburnmommiesinalabama/. Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register. La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. @ Holy Trinity Episcopal in Auburn. For more information call Josie at 257-3950. Lee County Autism Support Group meets every other month. Call Julie Brown 887-3903 or Florence Evermom 887-5005. Covenant Presbyterian Church on Shelton Mill Road in Auburn. MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids. New website is www.auburnmoms.com. Moms In Touch. Do you worry about your children? Come experience how you can replace your anxiety and fear with peace and hope by praying with other moms. Moms In Touch International gathers moms together for one hour, once a week, to pray specifically and scripturally for our children and school. Won’t you join with us in prayer for this next generation? Please contact Julia Farrow at julia@cornerstonebuzz.org for information about our local groups. For more information about Moms In Touch International, visit www. MomsInTouch.org.
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Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@ insideyfc.com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com.
Mom’s Morning Out
Auburn United Methodist Church, Children’s Day Out Program, every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.-12 noon. $10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information. Trinity United Methodist Church (Opelika) Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45-12. $10 per child.
Support Groups
Care N’ Share Group Caring for a family member or friend can be rewarding, but it is not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your grandchildren, provide care to your parents or spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn from each other, ways to cope with the everyday stresses of caring for someone you love. We will also give you tools and resources to help you on your journey. Last Monday of each month through November. 7 a.m., or Noon CST (choose the one that works best for you). Registration preferred but not required. This program is supported by the Opelika SportsPlex, Lee-Russell Area Agency on Aging, and Hospice Advantage EAMC. Food Allergy Support of East Alabama The Food Allergy Support of East Alabama group offers support through the sharing of information and resources. We are also working to increase awareness of food allergies in the state of Alabama. For more information, visit our website at www.foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334-826-3082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net. GRACE - Post-Abortive Support Group Are you struggling with feelings of regret or sadness from having a pregnancy termination in your past? Do you feel like you can’t share these struggles with anyone? Would you like to find healing and forgiveness? You are not alone. Women’s Hope Medical Clinic wants to help you! You are invited to take part in our GRACE abortion recovery group. This confidential group gives you the opportunity to process the grief of your termination in a safe and non-judgmental setting. If you would like more information about the times, dates and location for this group, call or e-mail Sherry at Women’s Hope: 334.502.7000 or sherry@womenshope.org Don’t let the regret of the past rob you of the joy in the future. Call us today. We are here to help.
Sports
Auburn University Football Home games: Sept. 1, 15, 22. www.autigers.com. Auburn University Soccer Aug. 17, 19, 31. Sept. 2, 8, 14, 16, 28, 30. Auburn Soccer Complex. Auburn University Volleyball Aug. 31. Sept. 1, 21, 23. www.autigers.com. www.autigers.com. Burn City Rollers League August 18. Auburn Team. Columbus Civic Center, Ga. www.burncityrollers.com. Columbus Roller Derby League August 18. Columbus Civic Center, Ga. www.columbusciviccenter.org.
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Montgomery Biscuits Baseball August 24-28, 30-31. Sept. 1-3. Riverwalk Stadium, Montgomery, Al. www.biscuitsbaseball.com. Thunder Road Classic 2012 Auburn Soccer Complex. August 24-26.
Birmingham. www.sidewalkfest.com. Thunder Road Classic 2012 Auburn Soccer Complex. UniverSoul Circus See August 22 for details.
Monday, August 20
Saturday, August 25
OLLI Brown Bag Lunch and Learn Auburn Chamber of Commerce. 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Tracy Donald, Accessible Technology at AU. All meetings are open to the public and are free. Participants should bring their own lunch and drink. www. olliatauburn.org. Elvis! The Early Years Alabama Shakespeare Festival. One Night Only! 7:30 p.m. www.asf.net. The Little Mermaid, Jr. Auditions New Horizon Theatre, West Point, Ga. Auditions open for grades 1-12. 7 p.m. Eastern time. www.nhct.org. First Day of School Auburn and Opelika City Schools.
Tuesday, August 21
Opelika Farmer’s Market The Courthouse Square. 2-5 p.m. The Market will open each Tuesday this summer, rain or shine, provides fresh regional produce, homemade ice cream, and fresh baked goods. For more information, contact Pam PowersSmith, 745.0466. The Night of Truth starring Fantasia and Joe Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center. 8 p.m. www. bjcc.com. The Little Mermaid, Jr. Auditions See August 20 for details.
Wednesday, August 22
UniverSoul Circus Legion Field Stadium, Birmingham. wwwticketmaster. com.
Thursday, August 23
Farmers Market at Ag Heritage Park Auburn. 3-6 p.m. An open-air farmers’ market offering locally produced fruits, vegetables, honey, ornamental plants, herbs, flowers, eggs, goat milk, soaps, baked goods and more! In addition, it often features the work of local artisans, educational booths, and musical entertainment. 334.321.1603. UniverSoul Circus See August 22 for details.
Friday, August 24
Sundilla Acoustic Concert Series ‘Randall Bramblett’. Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship. 7:30 p.m. $12 admission, $10 in advance at Gnu’s Room. www.sundilla.org. Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens Robin Lake Beach Dome, Callaway Gardens. 4-7 p.m. $5 admission. A variety of local and regional vendors selling fruits and vegetables, including those grown right here in Callaway Gardens’ own Mr. Cason’s Vegetable Garden; meats and dairy products; baked goods; soaps, sauces and other specialty items; and flowers and plants. Additionally, demonstrations and children’s activities ensure a fun and interactive learning environment for all ages.www.callawaygardens.com. 14th Annual Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival
Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com
Lowe’s Build-and-Grow Kid’s Workshops “Shrek Onion Carriage.” 10-11 a.m. Free hands-on learning clinic. Opelika. A great way to give your child the opportunity to participate in these pint-sized “How-to Clinics.” These clinics are designed specifically for kids from ages 5 through 12. An adult will need to bring the child and stay with him or her for the entire length of the workshop. Corner Kick-Off! Downtown Auburn, 7:30pm. Sponsored by AuburnArt. com, Auburn University Athletics, and Auburn Parks and Recreation. Free! Featuring the first episode of Auburn Everyday on our 25’x14’ inflatable screen! Come catch the team spirit as we ready for the 2012 football season! Shop with downtown merchants, dine with downtown restaurants, and get ready for a great season with a few thousand members of the Auburn Family. 501-2940 ABC of Bats Montgomery Zoo. 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Learn more about these winged creatures that fly about in the night. These creatures are found all over the world... including your backyard and neighbor. Ages 4-10 years. www. montgomeryzoo.com. Young Eagles Day at Columbus Airport Free airplane rides for kids! Ages 8-17 years. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-323-0570. 13th Annual Muster on the Tallapoosa Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, Alexander City. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free. 256-234-7111. Market Days on Broadway Columbus, Ga. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. 706-596-0111. Grab your recyclable grocery bag and head down to Broadway to pick up locally grown produce, homemade baked goods, artwork, flowers, plants and handcrafted items! Dragon Boat Race & Festival Riverfront Park, Montgomery. 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. Free. This year’s festival promises to be even more spectacular. Bring your family and friends to the river and watch local participants paddle their way to the finish line. Better yet, join a team.www.montgomerydragonboat.org. Small Fry Tri A Triathlon for Kids! benefiting the American Cancer Society. Town Creek Park, Auburn. 9 a.m. Step up to the starting line and run as fast as you can! Bring a helmet and a bike, trike or big-wheels and pedal, pedal, pedal! Run through the sprinklers provided by the Auburn fire truck and go straight to the finish line! Ages 2 - 6 years. Races every 5-10 minutes. Children can re-race as many times as they like. Every child receives a medal and tshirt. Pre-registration is $15/child or $35/family of 3 children given as a donation to the American Cancer Society. www.facebook.com/events/344837662269457. 14th Annual Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival Birmingham. www.sidewalkfest.com. Thunder Road Classic 2012 Auburn Soccer Complex. Antique Cars Cruise-In Courthouse Square, Talladega. 5-8 p.m. Enjoy the era of classic cars, classic music and occasionally, classic movies will be shown at the Historic Ritz Theatre. UniverSoul Circus See August 22 for details.
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Sunday, August 26
Women’s Equality Day Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site. Join the park staff as they recognize those women who contributed to local history. www.nps.gov/semo. Southern Bridal Show Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. 12 - 5 p.m. www.eliteevents.com. Lowe’s Build-and-Grow Kid’s Workshops “Shrek Onion Carriage.” 2-3 p.m. Free hands-on learning clinic. Opelika. A great way to give your child the opportunity to participate in these pint-sized “How-to Clinics.” These clinics are designed specifically for kids from ages 5 through 12. An adult will need to bring the child and stay with him or her for the entire length of the workshop. 14th Annual Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival Birmingham. www.sidewalkfest.com.. Thunder Road Classic 2012 Auburn Soccer Complex. The Fresh Beat Band Live! Fox Theatre, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com. UniverSoul Circus See August 22 for details.
Monday, August 27
OLLI Brown Bag Lunch and Learn Auburn Chamber of Commerce. 11:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. Lolly Steiner, Auburn Chamber of Commerce. All meetings are open to the public and are free of cost. Participants should bring their own lunch and drink. www.olliatauburn.org.
Tuesday, August 28 Opelika Farmer’s Market See August 21 for details.
Friday, August 31
Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens See August 24 for details. Friday Night Splash! Auburn Pool. 6-8pm. Free with Splash Pass/$2 person. 501-2957 Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival Callaway Gardens.www.callaway.org. Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival Historic 4th Avenue Business District, Birmingham. 2-9 p.m. www.justataste.org. Peanut Boil Festival Luverne, Al. Arts & Crafts Festival which includes 5K fun run/walk., beauty pageant, car & motorcycle show, kids rides & activities, entertainment under big tent. Festival held in conjunction with Shriner’s World’s Largest Peanut Boil on Labor Day weekend. www. peanutboilfestival.com. Friday Night Splash Auburn Parks and Rec. 6-8 p.m. Enjoy free swim, games, a cookout, music, and much more! FREE admission with Splash Pass or $2/person. 501-2957. The Night Of Truth Starring Fantasia www.bjcc.org. The Embers University Station RV Resort in Alumni Park, 3076 Hwy 14, Auburn. 6-11 p.m. Open to the public. Tickets $10 per person. 334.821.8968.
Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Family Calendar Saturday, September 1
AU vs. Clemson Tailgate Event Center Downtown, Opelika. www.eventcenterdowntown.net Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival Callaway Gardens.www.callaway.org. Tuskegee Labor Day Fly-In Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site. Family friendly event focusing on aviation. www.nps.gov/tuai. Music at the Mountain Stone Mountain Park, Ga. 1-10 p.m. Musical guests include Katie Arminger, Larkin Poe, Caroline Aiken, The Shadowboxers and more. www.stonemountainpark.com. Salsa Extravaganza Columbus Ice Rink. 9 p.m. www.columbusciviccenter.org. Meet Dora & Diego McWane Science Museum, Birmingham. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.mcwane.org. Peanut Boil Festival See August 31 for details. Market Days on Broadway See August 25 for details.
Sunday, September 2
Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival Callaway Gardens.www.callaway.org. Labor Day Weekend Concert The Amp, Lake Martin. 4:30 p.m. gates open, concert 6 p.m. Meet Dora & Diego See Sept. 1 for details.
Monday, September 3
Labor Day at Old Alabama Town Montgomery. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Return to the days before Labor Day was established in 1894 to learn how early Americans of all backgrounds toiled in 19th-century Alabama.www.oldalabamatown.com. Meet Dora & Diego See Sept. 1 for details.
Tuesday, September 4
Auburn Area Children’s Theatre Auditions for 101 Dalmatians Kids Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn. 4-6 p.m. Callbacks Sept 6, 4-7 p.m.
Wednesday, September 5 Auburn Area Children’s Theatre Auditions for 101 Dalmatians Kids See Sept. 4 for details.
Thursday, September 6
Yellow Daisy Festival Stone Mountain Park, Ga. More than 400 artists and crafters from 38 States and two countries display their works for your appreciation and purchase. Daily live entertainment, Children’s Corner activities, clogging and crafter demonstrations throughout the event as well as fabulous festival foods. www.stonemountainpark.com. Fall Sundown Concert Series at Kiesel Park ‘Destiny Brown’. 6-7:30pm. Free. Bring the family, a picnic supper, your lawn chairs and maybe even the
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family dog and enjoy a free, relaxing evening under the stars. 501-2939.
Friday, September 7
Opelika Unplugged Event Center Downtown, Opelika.7 p.m. A performance platform for songwriters and musicians. Free. www. eventcenterdowntown.net. Timeless Music Festival Columbus Civic Center. 7 p.m. www.columbusciviccenter.org. Ballet and the Beasts featuring Birds of Ballet Performed by the Montgomery Ballet. The Montgomery Zoo. 6-10 p.m. Free admission. www.montgomeryballet.org. First Friday Night Tennis Mixer Join the Auburn Community Tennis Association at the City of Auburn/Auburn University Yarbrough Tennis Center. Citizens ages 19 and up are encouraged to play. www.auburnalabama.org/tennis or 501-2920. Train Chastain Park Amphitheatre, Atlanta. 7 p.m. www.ticketmaster.com. First Fridays “Shop Late, Eat Local” Downtown Opelika. On the First Friday of each month, downtown Opelika shops will stay open until 8 p.m. so that diners of our downtown restaurants can shop before or after they eat. This is a great opportunity for those that work during retail hours to see what the Downtown shops have to offer. There will also be entertainment on street corners for everyone’s enjoyment. Yellow Daisy Festival See Sept. 6 for details. Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens See August 24 for details.
Saturday, September 8
Beautiful Butterflies The Forest Ecology Preserve is located at 2222 N. College Street (Hwy 147), Auburn. 10 a.m. Join us for a program by Nick and Margaret Holler on butterflies at the pavilion, then hike or drive over to our beautiful butterfly garden. Learn tips on attracting and feeding butterflies. Children’s activities will be available with this program. $3 for non-members, $2 for members. 502.4553. Second Saturday Lee County Historical Society Museum. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. On the second Saturday of every month, a group of history re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts. Blacksmiths are working at the forge, spinners and weavers are in the textile room, the gardeners are in the gardens, crafts and seasonal activities are scheduled, and someone is always cooking up a meal in the fireplace or outdoors. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org. The Midtown Men RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Columbus, Ga. 7:30 p.m. www.rivercenter.org. Fort Benning’s Postwide Yard Sale & Flea Market www.benning.army.mil. Brett Robinson Alabama Coastal Triathlon The Hangout, Gulf Shores. www.team-magic.com. Market Days on Broadway See August 25 for details. Yellow Daisy Festival See Sept. 6 for details.
Sunday, September 9 Grandparents’ Day
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DeSoto Caverns. Come and treat your grandparent(s) to a FREE caverns tour. Up to two grandparents get a free caverns tour ticket with the purchase of one regular price adult or child tour ticket. www.desotocavernspark.com. Second Sunday: Monarchs of the Sky Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center. Columbus. 2 p.m. Join Oxbow’s naturalist Jan Forrest Kent for a lesson on identifying the tracks of local widlife. Then experience the thrill of seeing those animal tracks firsthand as we venture out for a hike on the wetland trail! $3 fee. oxbow.columbusstate.edu. Yellow Daisy Festival See Sept. 6 for details.
Monday, September 10 Adventures in Art 2012 Auburn High School Performing Arts Center. www.auburnalabama.org/arts.
Tuesday, September 11 Adventures in Art 2012 See Sept. 10 for details.
Wednesday, September 12 Adventures in Art 2012 See Sept. 10 for details.
Thursday, September 13
Adventures in Art 2012 See Sept. 10 for details. Sundown Concert Series Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Rec. Kiesel Park, Auburn. 6 p.m. Free. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets. Fall Sundown Concert Series at Kiesel Park ‘In Cahoots’. 6-7:30pm. Free. Bring the family, a picnic supper, your lawn chairs and maybe even the family dog and enjoy a free, relaxing evening under the stars. 501-2939. Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music Philips Arena, Ga. www.ticketmaster.com.
Friday, September 14
Downtown Autumn Nights Toomer’s Corner. 6-10 p.m. Presented by The Auburn and Opelika Tourism Bureau featuring Swingin’ Medallions and appearances by Aubie, The Auburn University Cheerleaders and The Auburn University Band. For updates and information visitfacebook.com/ auburnchamber. Football, Fans & Feathers Southeastern Raptor Center Amphitheater. 4 p.m. Annual birds-in-flight raptor programs on Fridays before Auburn University home football games. Admission $5, children under 3 years free. www.vetmed.auburn.edu/raptor. Adventures in Art 2012 See Sept. 10 for details. 2012 Ultimate Ladies Night Out Expo FOP Lodge of Columbus, 8827 Heiferhorn Way. 6-10 p.m. Gather your girlfriends and enjoy a night of shopping, product and cooking demonstrations, makeovers, food samples, crafts, door prizes and more!
Advertising: 334-209-0552
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This event is free & open to the public. Over 40 vendors. Bill Engvall RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Columbus, Ga. 7:30 p.m. www.rivercenter.org. Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens See August 24 for details. Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music See Sept. 13 for details.
Saturday, September 15
16th Annual Peanut Festival Plains, Ga. Home of the 39th President of the USA. Event features parades, fun run, vendors, exhibits and more. www.plainsgeorgia.com/peanut_festival. Run for the Valley, Run United 10-K and 5-K Begins at 8 a.m. $25 Pre-Registration (before September 7) $30 On-Site Registration 1-Mile Tot Trot begins at 9:15 a.m. (12 yr and under) $15 Location: CWW South Columbus Water Resource Facility 3001 South Lumpkin Road Columbus, Ga. www.runnersworld.com. Alabama Nature Center Public Weekend Millbrook. Enjoy hiking five miles of scenic ANC trails while learning about the fascinating natural history of central Alabama. www.alabamawildlife.org. Sensory Sensitive Movie Finding Nemo. Carmike Ritz 13, Columbus, Ga. 11 a.m. These movies are geared towards families with children on the Autism Spectrum (and others with sensory issues). Some special features will include turning on the lights about halfway, turning down the sound, and throwing out the “no noise” restriction. Families may choose to bring in their own special dietary food or purchase from the concession stand. www.mcasg.net. 7th Annual Ready, Set. Grow! Harvest Festival and Arts & Crafts Fair Millbrook. 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Pumpkin growing contest. Proceeds from the Harvest Festival fund this educational program that is offered free to children ages 5-12. Event features regional artisans and crafters of all media types, children’s activities, live music and food vendors. 334578-2054. Crusin’ for Kidz Children’s Harbor Lodge and Conference Center. Alexander City. 150 mile round trip escorted ride to benefit Children’s Harbor and the 19 illness camps they serve. $50 registration. Includes event t-shirt, continental breakfast and meal at end of ride. 9-10 a.m. 334-8572133. Hank Williams’ 89th Birthday Celebration and 9th Annual Collectors Faire Hank Williams Museum, Montgomery. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. www.TheHankWilliamsMuseum.com. 22nd Annual Wiregrass Model Railroad Show and Sale National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, Dothan. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. $5 for adults and free for children under age 12. Featuring several large operating model train layouts, many model railroad product vendors from throughout the Southeast and an outdoor train ride for children. 3347909-6284. Astronomy Night at FDR State Park Pine Mountain, Ga. 8 p.m. Join presenters from the CocaCola Space Science Center for an evening to include star talks, star maps and viewing of the night sky. $5 parking. 706-663-4858. Market Days on Broadway See August 25 for details. Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music See Sept. 13 for details.
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Sunday, September 16
Auburn Community Orchestra Concert Kiesel Park, Auburn. 4 p.m. Free and open to the public. Outside Movie Night ‘The Blind Side’ at Boykin Community Center, Auburn. 7pm. Sponsored by Officals R Us. Bring a lawn chair, blanket, and picnic (no alcohol or glass containers), and join us for a FREE, feel good movie this fall! 501-2941. ARTrek Montgomery Art Gallery Association. RSA Tower, Montgomery. Take the Trek through the galleries, meet the artists, enjoy refreshments and an afternoon of fine art in a variety of styles and media. 2 - 5 p.m. www. montgomeryartgalleryassociation.com. Half Marathon and 5KRun Super Speedway, Talladega. After you cross the finish line, have your photo taken in Victory Lane and then head to the Pit Garage for a post race party, with live music and plenty of BBQ, and a kids zone. It’s a race to benefit all men as we raise funds for Prostate Cancer Research. www.talladegahalf.com. Alabama Nature Center Public Weekend See Sept. 15 for details. 22nd Annual Wiregrass Model Railroad Show and Sale See Sept. 15 for details. Sesame Street Live: Elmo Makes Music See Sept. 13 for details.
Monday, September 17 63rd Annual Shelby County Alabama Fair Shelby County Exhibition Center, Columbiana. www.alshelbycountyfair.com.
McWane Science Museum. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.mcwane.org. Cullman County Fair Cullman County Fairgrounds. 256-734-0454. 63rd Annual Shelby County Alabama Fair See Sept. 17 for details.
Friday, September 21
Football, Fans & Feathers See Sept. 14 for details. AU vs. LSU Tailgate Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m. Featuring American Idol Taylor Hicks, Opening performance by Spoonful James. $20 advance tickets. www.eventcenterdowntown.net. Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens See August 24 for details. 9 to 5: The Musical See Sept. 20 for details. Brian Regan Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center. 8 p.m. www. bjcc.com. PNC Grow Up Great Mobile Learning Adventure See Sept. 20 for details. 63rd Annual Shelby County Alabama Fair See Sept. 17 for details. Cullman County Fair See Sept. 20 for details.
Saturday, September 22
63rd Annual Shelby County Alabama Fair See Sept. 17 for details.
Corn Maze Kick-Off The Rock Ranch, Ga. www.therockranch.com. Market Days on Broadway See August 25 for details. 9 to 5: The Musical See Sept. 20 for details. PNC Grow Up Great Mobile Learning Adventure See Sept. 20 for details. 63rd Annual Shelby County Alabama Fair See Sept. 17 for details. Cullman County Fair See Sept. 20 for details.
Thursday, September 20
Sunday, September 23
Tuesday, September 18 63rd Annual Shelby County Alabama Fair See Sept. 17 for details.
Wednesday, September 19
Zoobilation The Montgomery Zoo. 6-10 p.m. Annual fundraiser includes dance under the stars, live music, food, live and silent auctions. Adult cocktail (21 or older to attend). $50 per person. www.montgomeryzoo.com. Fall Sundown Concert Series at Kiesel Park ‘Tony Brooks Band’. 6-7:30pm. Free. Bring the family, a picnic supper, your lawn chairs and maybe even the family dog and enjoy a free, relaxing evening under the stars. 501-2939. Pizza Pizzazz Covington Rec Center. 3:30-4:30pm. Ages 6-11. Fee $10. Mamma Mia! Prepare pizza in three different styles. Menopause: The Musical Birmingham Jefferson Convention Center. 8 p.m. www. bjcc.com. Sundown Concert Series See Sept. 13 for details. Low Country Boil Landmark Park, Dothan. 6 p.m. 9 to 5: The Musical Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org. PNC Grow Up Great Mobile Learning Adventure
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Bark in the Park Fort Toulouse, Wetumpka. 1-5 p.m. Bring your dog for a fun afternoon of pet games and contests, food, vendors of all kinds, live music, children’s games, demonstrations and so much more. www.elmorehumane.com. Cullman County Fair See Sept. 20 for details.
Monday, September 24 Cullman County Fair See Sept. 20 for details.
Tuesday, September 25 Cullman County Fair See Sept. 20 for details.
Wednesday, September 26 Cullman County Fair See Sept. 20 for details.
Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
Family Calendar Thursday, September 27
Sundown Concert Series See Sept. 13 for details. 9 to 5: The Musical See Sept. 20 for details. Rascal Flatts Columbus Civic Center. 7 p.m. www.columbusciviccenter.org. Cullman County Fair See Sept. 20 for details. Fall Sundown Concert Series at Kiesel Park ‘John and the Connors’. 6-7:30pm. Free. Bring the family, a picnic supper, your lawn chairs and maybe even the family dog and enjoy a free, relaxing evening under the stars. 501-2939. Cameron Carpenter Opelika Performing Arts Center The most sought-after concert organist in the world, Cameron Carpenter’s staggering virtuosity, electric showmanship, and profound musicality leave audiences begging for more and more, encore after encore. www. eastalabamaarts.org
Friday, September 28
Home School Day @ Stone Mountain Park Georgia. 10:30 a.m. - 5 p.m. Home school students are invited for a full day of education and adventure. For pass rate, groups@stonemountainpark.com. Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens See August 24 for details. 9 to 5: The Musical See Sept. 20 for details. Cullman County Fair See Sept. 20 for details.
Saturday, September 29
Woofstock Kiesel Park, Auburn. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Woofstock is Lee County Humane Society’s annual fund-raising event to celebrate people and their dogs. Each year dog lover’s and their four-legged friends gather at Kiesel Park for a fun-filled day with live entertainment, dog activities and demos, local pet merchandise vendors, children’s activities and more! www.leecountyhumane.org. Lake Wilmore Trail Run Ogletree Elementary School. 8am. Celebrate Family Health and Fitness Day USA. $15-$20 fee. All proceeds benefit trail maintenance and improvements. 501-2936. Happy Hummers The Forest Ecology Preserve is located at 2222 N. College Street (Hwy 147), Auburn. 10 a.m. Join us to learn about all about Hummingbirds in an entertaining program presented by the “Hummingbird Man” Fred Bassett. $3 for non-members, $2 for members. 502.4553. Ag Discovery Adventure Co-sponsored by the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, the Alabama Agricultural Experiment Station and Auburn University’s College of Agriculture. E.V. Smith Research Center, Shorter. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. The day offers a host of entertaining and enlightening hands-on activities and presentations; from hay rides to high-tech treasure hunts, from a corn maze to demonstrations of modern farming equipment, and from worm beds to milking demonstrations designed to introduce folks of all ages and walks of life to the wide world of agriculture. www.agdiscoveryadventure.com. F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Birthday Party The F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum, Montgomery. 6-10 p.m. www.fitzgeraldmuseum.net.
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National Public Lands Day Tuskegee National Forest. 7:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.Volunteers, businesses, school groups and organizations are invited to team up with Forest Service employees in a one-day effort to keep Alabama’s national forests clean and beautiful. 334-727-2652. Auburn ‘Real Food’ Fest Auburn University Club. 5-9pm. The event will serve as the official launch and fundraiser for the campus “Slow Food” chapter established by AU student organization “Auburn Real Food Challenge”. Tickets $40. Auburn Beautification Council Plant Sale Dean Road Rec Center. 8am-12noon. ! Prices range from $6 - 15. All proceeds from the sale go to support Auburn Beautification Council projects, including the downtown hanging baskets and plantings, Spring Azalea Trail, gardens at Kiesel Park, and beautification awards presented to Auburn homes and businesses. Individuals and businesses are encouraged to pre-order plants by Sept. 19. Pre-orders receive a 10% discount. 501-2936 Day of the Lumberjack The Rock Ranch, Ga. Enjoy chainsaw carvers in competition plus a timbersports exhibition led by UGA and featuring other NCAA schools with premier timbersports teams. Guests will enjoy pole climbing, power saws, axe chopping, 2-man team saw and log rolling in the pond. www.therockranch.com. Art Club ‘Curatorial Choices’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art. 10-11am. Art Club sessions are free, but require preregistration. Please call 334.844.3486 to preregister. Sessions are open studio so parents are asked to stay at the museum. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Taste of the Bayou Bayou La Batre Community Center. 5-8 p.m. A seafood tasting event, featuring thirty-plus booths with succulent dishes prepared by local and professional chefs. www. bayoulabatrechamber.com. 33rd Annual Chili Cook-Off Expected to draw over 300 teams from across the United States.The cook-off has something for all ages, from great music to great food and games for the whole family.100% of all proceeds go to support Camp Twin Lakes, a non-profit that offers year-round recreational, therapeutic and educational programs. www.stonemountainpark.com. Young Eagles Day at Columbus Airport 8:30-11:30 a.m. Free airplane rides for kids ages 8-17 years. 706-324-2453. 2012 Summer Astronomy Nights FDR Park, Ga. 9 p.m. Free! The astronomers from Columbus State University’s Coca-Cola Space Science Center will help you navigate the summer sky. The array of telescopes is fascinating, and you’ll be able to rub shoulders with true space enthusiasts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair! dutch@ccssc.org. Ole Chipley Town Fair Pine Mountain, Ga. Crafts, quilting, pottery, metalwork, woodwork, food & entertainment. 706-8010062. Bernadette Peters RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Columbus, Ga. 7:30 p.m. www.rivercenter.org. Market Days on Broadway See August 25 for details. 9 to 5: The Musical See Sept. 20 for details.
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Sunday, September 30 9 to 5: The Musical See Sept. 20 for details.
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Looking Ahead...
October 2. Kids in the Kitchen Covington Rec Center. 3:30-4:30pm. Ages 4-7. Fee $15. Hands on fun making delicious child-proof foods. October 4. Fall Sundown Concert Series at Kiesel Park ‘Crossroads’. 6-7:30pm. Free. Bring the family, a picnic supper, your lawn chairs and maybe even the family dog and enjoy a free, relaxing evening under the stars. 501-2939. October 5. Football, Fans & Feathers The Southeastern Raptor Center, Auburn. 4 p.m. The annual birds-in-flight raptor programs on Fridays before Auburn University home football games. Learn about the residents of the Southeastern Raptor Center. Hawks, falcons and eagles will be free-flown from flight towers allowing guests to see these raptors flying close. Admission is $5 each; children 3yrs and under are free. For school groups of 25 of more, admission is $3 a person. For information about school groups, call (334) 844-6943. October 5. Opelika Unplugged Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m. Free. www.eventcenterdowntown.net. October 5. Stand Up Ghost Halloween Decorations Dean Road Rec Center. 10-11am. Big and little hands together create a ‘spook-tacular’ tabletop centerpiece by making standing ghosts out of clay. Adults registering for the class may enroll up to 2 children and will work alongside them to make a set of 3 ghosts. Pre-registration required. $15/adult-child pair; $20/adult-child trio. 821-0916. October 9. Beads, Beads, Beads Covington Rec Center. 3:30-4:30pm. Ages 6-12. Fee $15. Make fun items with beads, beads, and more beads! October 13. Jule Collins Smith Museum 9th Birthday Party. 10am-1pm. Celebrate the Museum’s 9th birthday in 1940s style! Get keen to the ritzy party as we talk about the works of art that were the cat’s meow in ’48, learn about the bluenoses who canned Advancing American Art (and the Reds that painted the works), all while listening to swinging music of the day, chowing on ice cream and cake, and having a swell time! www.jcsm.auburn.edu October 13. 2012 Miss Autism Speaks Pageant. Winder, Ga. Natural pageant for a great cause. (706)255-9081. October 13. 2012 Buddy Walk. The Montgomery Zoo. 9am. The Buddy Walk celebrates National Down Syndrome Awareness Month. The National Down Syndrome Society established the Buddy Walk in 1995 to promote awareness and inclusion for people with Down Syndrome. It is a fun, wonderful, heart-warming event in which thousands of people from coast to coast and around the world participate each year. www.montgomeryareadownsyndrome.com
Please send your calendar events to kendra @auburnopelikaparents.com by the 5th of the month. It’s FREE! Advertising: 334-209-0552
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Tough Questions for Caregivers About Child Sexual Abuse Finding the right caregiver for your child is a parenting decision not to be taken lightly. In our society, caregivers can include hired sitters, family members, neighbors, churches, schools, daycares, camps, tutors, coaches, you name it. When you choose to leave your child in the care of others, it’s important to know that those individuals and organizations are just as devoted to keeping your child safe from sexual abuse as you are. Unfortunately, as parents, we often shy away from asking important safety questions to potential caregivers because the topic feels too uncomfortable or embarrassing. But what we’ve learned from the news out of Penn State is that we must ask those difficult questions to anyone who is going to care for our children. We cannot assume that our children are protected from child sexual abuse without asking about it directly. When selecting a caregiver for your child, or evaluating ones you already use, try asking questions like the four offered below. Consider what responses you’d like to hear from your caregiver as you prepare for your conversation. Remember, there is no time like the present to protect your child from sexual abuse.
3. Are all of your employees and volunteers trained on how to prevent and respond to child sexual abuse? If all the employees and volunteers at Penn State had been trained in how to prevent and respond to child sexual abuse, then things would have likely turned out very differently there. It’s as simple as that. If all caregivers are adequately trained, then everyone will know how to keep your child protected.
caregiver does have one-on-one time, is it observable by others or able to be interrupted? Can you stop by unannounced? If not, speak with them about why that’s a must for your family. To learn more or to join the movement to prevent child sexual abuse in the East Alabama community, visit www.childpsychmom.com/prevent. Together we can make a difference.
4. Are there any situations when my child will be one-on-one with an adult or another child? More than 80% of child sexual abuse occurs in one-on-one situations. If we work actively to reduce one-on-one situations then the likelihood of child sexual abuse will decrease. If your child’s
Dr. Polly Dunn received her Ph.D. from Auburn University in 1999. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and currently serves as the Director of the Auburn University Psychological Services Center, a position she has held for over ten years. Dr. Dunn is also the founder of www.ChildPsychMom.com where she blogs about what works and what doesn’t in her hectic life as a child psychologist, wife, and mom of four.
1. Do you have a written policy that describes how you keep my child safe from sexual abuse while in your care? Many schools, daycares, churches, and organizations have written policies that they can provide you. If your child’s caregiver or potential caregiver doesn’t have a policy, don’t despair. Your question can be the start of a good discussion about their role in keeping your child safe from sexual abuse.
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2. Do you conduct background checks on all of your employees and volunteers? You don’t want individuals caring for your children who have been convicted as a sex offender or of a violent crime. Right? Well, if background checks aren’t done on all employees and volunteers there is no way to know their criminal history. Period.
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Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
The Odd Life of Timothy Green
ParaNorman MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: C+ Sexual Content: B Language: B Alcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated ParaNorman PG for scary action and images, thematic elements, some rude humor and language. “I see dead people” has been a popular theme in movies ever since Haley Joel Osment uttered the line in the 2000 (The Sixth Sense). Now Norman (voice of Kodi Smit-McPhee), a young boy living in the small New England town of Blithe Hollow, is also cursed/blessed with this metaphysical ability. Whether it’s his dead grandmother who chides him for watching zombie movies or the legion of ghostly people he meets on the way to school, it’s fair to say this boy with the sixth sense gets very little time alone. Even worse, Norman’s otherworldly conversations make him a prime target for bullying from his peers and ridicule from his frustrated father. Still this ghost whisperer has attracted one friend, an overweight and allergy prone boy named Neil (voice of Tucker Albrizzi), who is accepting of Norman’s unusual talent. Then there is Mr. Penderghast (voice of John Goodman), the typical spooky old guy who lives in the house on the hill and happens to be Norman’s uncle. Also rumored to be able to communicate with those who have passed on, he is desperate to teach the boy how to use his gift to thwart a centuries old curse on Blithe Hollow. Sadly the disheveled man dies before the information can be transferred. But fortunately he is still able to reach Norman, albeit in a most unusual way, with his face appearing in a school toilet. Now Norman and Neil, along with their respective older siblings Courtney (voice of Anna Kendrick) and Mitch (Casey Affleck), are left with the daunting task of saving the town from the curse. And the evil charm is about to intensify with the 300th anniversary of a witch trial that resulted in a young girl’s execution. Although the script features juvenile protagonists, this animation is very likely to frighten young children thanks to frequent jump scenes, gruesome images of corpses, insects bursting from teddy bears, and zombies with body parts that fall off. Obviously families who don’t appreciate occult themes will want to steer clear of this script that views witchcraft as a “special gift.” ParaNorman’s unique animation style and interesting musical score are worth noting. So are the occasional funny lines in the script and a message that uses the witchcraft plot to teach tolerance to modern day students. Yet it seems too scary for young kids, too immature for teens, and even less likely to interest adults.
MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B Sexual Content: ALanguage: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated The Odd Life of Timothy Green PG for mild thematic elements and brief language. Devastated by the news that they will never be able to conceive a child, Jim and Cindy Green (Joel Edgerton, Jennifer Garner) mourn the doctor’s report by penciling a list of all the characteristics and qualities their unrealized child would have -- things like a sense of humor, a big heart, honesty and the ability to love and be loved. Then they place all those little slips of paper in a wooden box and bury it in their backyard outside the small town of Stanleyville where both are employed by the Stanleyville Pencil Company. Now I’ve grown a garden for 25 years and have yet to sprout a child, but quick as Jack’s magic beans grew into a gigantic beanstalk, a boy germinates in the soft soil of the Green’s plot. Still muddy from his incubation among the vegetables, Timothy looks like any other 10-year-old except for the leaves growing on his legs. His sudden arrival requires an explanation to family and friends (though the fact about the garden is conveniently avoided). However that seems like a small sacrifice for Jim and Cindy who are thrilled with their new role as parents. Timothy, a gentle, serious soul, quickly becomes an easy target for school bullies and an unlikely competitor on the soccer field. Yet, he also possesses the ability to relate to the elderly (M. Emmet Walsh), the unlikable (Dianne West), the aloof (David Morse) and the outcast (Odeya Rush). But his compassion comes at a cost. In reality, the story is less about Timothy than it is about the hopes and expectations of his parents. While trying to create a perfect boyhood for their new son, Cindy and Jim find themselves drawn into the competitive venture of childrearing, where bragging rights are paramount. They are also forced to face the disappointments they experienced in their own childhoods. During all of the Green’s frenzied attempts to be the flawless parents, Timothy remains a quiet, calming presence in the home. Timothy gives this inexperienced couple a chance to learn what things are really important as a parent. Kids in the audience likely won’t appreciate the lesson. But maybe the adults sitting beside them will leave the theater less worried about what their neighbors’ (or sibling’s) kids are doing and more interested in helping their own children blossom.
What Parents Need To Know About ParaNorman...
Violence: Frequent scenes of gruesome images include corpses and zombies with dismembered body parts. Zombies are hit by cars and subjected to other violence. Townspeople threaten to burn a building with children inside. A horror movie within this film depicts a zombie eating brains. A teacher calls her students “useless.” A witch attacks a young boy. Sexual Content: A girl fawns over a shirtless boy. A boy is caught freezeframing an aerobics video -- we see a woman clothed in exercise wear. A boy reveals his sexual orientation when he mentions he has a boyfriend. Language: A mild rude term for female breasts, a mild profanity and a term of Christian deity are heard. Drugs/Alcohol: None noted. Auburn-Opelika Parents I September 2012
What Parents need to know about The Odd Life of Timothy Green...
Violence: A man forcefully throws a ball at child during a game of dodgeball. One child is hit in the head and knocked to the ground. A girl gets a bloody nose after being kicked in the face. Adults are oblivious to a child on the bottom of a swimming pool. A child is injured during a soccer game. A corpse is seen in a casket. Some brief moments of peril are shown. Sexual Content: A married couple kisses. Girls wear swimsuits. Language: The script contains brief, mild profanities and terms of Deity. Alcohol / Drug Use: A couple drinks wine at home with some seeming affect on their sobriety. 52
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