Auburn-Opelika Parents September 2015 by KeepSharing

September2015

Volume 6 Number 7

32 Columns

Publisher’s Note Kendra Sumner

Living With Children John Rosemond

Promoting Good Social Skills

Helping your special needs child interact better with others.

Advocating for Your Special Needs Child

Help them get the support, treatment & education they deserve.

Kids Health Watch sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

A Page in a Book

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Gerry Paige Smith

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

2015 Special Needs Resource Guide

You’ve Got It, Mom!

Discover 10 ways to boost your self-confidence as a mother, Local and national resources assist you in caring for your child. and as a woman.

Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey

On The Cover Ashley and Jarred Miller are the parents of Lewis (7) and Miles (1). They live in Auburn, along with two other brothers, Ian (6) and Winston (3). Lewis and Miles were born with Bilateral Clubfeet. They both had serial castings from age 2 weeks to 3 months. After castings they had a heel-cord lengthening surgery, then had to wear shoes attached to a bar to maintain alignment. Lewis was required to have tendon transfers in both feet this past March. He’s worked really hard in physical therapy and is looking forward to playing flag football this fall.

Departments 6

Bits and Pieces 10

School Bits 42

Family Calendar 48

Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Publisher’sNote Well, for those of you who have kept up and are interested in knowing how my Kindergartner has been doing so far this school year, I am thrilled to say he loves it! Last month, I was dreading the first day of school for my clinging little mommy’s boy. After a few weeks of the back-to-school routine, Porter has adjusted to being away from me all day and is happy to wake up and find out what the new day has in store for him! As delighted as I am, I can’t take credit for it. All credit and kudos go to his sweet teacher, who I told was most definitely an angel disguised as a Kindergarten teacher. Her love for her career, and the children who sit in those tiny seats each day, was the draw that had my Porter eager to head back each day. Are you wondering how I am doing? To be perfectly honest…not as thrilled. My plans were simple. I would finally have all four of my children in school full time and would be able to focus more on work, complete that unfinished project, catch up on some recommended books, get the kids’ closets and rooms organized, and maybe even recharge once in a while with a power nap. I just knew this could all get done because all my Facebook and Pinterest friends were able to do it, and seeing their posts each day gave me the fuel to do it too. I have spent all summer pinning great ideas for organizing the house, cute school party treats, and even the exact stain color for that unfinished dresser. I thought, Wow! Everyone else has it figured out, it can’t be that hard! Does this sound like you? Do you scroll through the lives of other moms and compare yourself? I do, and it leaves me with lofty goals and unachievable standards for myself. Let’s face it, I am never going to be Martha Stewart, and therefore, those cute pumpkin cupcakes are going to turn out looking more like the inside goo of an actual pumpkin. I need to just forget about that dresser and its perfect stain color. Admitting that those skills are better left to a professional is the first step in realizing I can’t do everything. As for those closets, “Hi, my name is Kendra and I have a clutter/hoarding problem!” Even when my Facebook photo shows a picture of the kids standing in the living room, know that I have zoomed in and cropped it so that the clutter and multiple toys are not in view. In this month’s feature article, You’ve Got It Mom! 10 Tips to Boost SelfConfidence, the author recommends that we moms quit beating ourselves up and comparing ourselves to others. This only brings doubt and insecurities into our lives and leaves us feeling inadequate. Instead, know yourself, affirm yourself and think positive. Knowing that I am not a chef, nor really want to be, is a better place to start than filling my board with 101 school night casseroles, after school treats and holiday fun. Instead, I know that my skill set is better served organizing the holiday parties, planning which ‘Kids Eat Free’ night to attend and encouraging my children to choose their own healthy snacks. As for that dresser, I’m going to leave the staining and painting to the professionals. In doing so, I will not bring myself down for not being able to do it. Just keep in mind that even if your neighbor’s Facebook feed shows only images of what a supermom can do, you can rest assured it is just an illusion. We all strive to be our best and inadvertently reveal to others in that way, but none of us are perfect. We are just moms. Keep posting your first day of dance photos, the awards your boys received for a great baseball season, your amazing dinner entrée that turned out yummy, and fun Disney photos where everyone matched in their Mickey ears...these are proud parent moments and family adventures to cherish. Your friends and neighbors do enjoy scrolling through the photos and ideas. From One Parent to Another, remember not to compare and cause a negative self-image. Think positive about your own abilities and talents because your children already believe that ‘You’ve Got This!”

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

Auburn Opelika Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher Kendra Sumner kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@auburnopelikaparents.com Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Rian Anglin, M.D. Laura Handey Carolyn Jabs Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. Varina Mead Judy M. Miller Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

President Jason Watson Director of Sales Justin Sumner justin@auburnopelikaparents.com (334) 209-0552 Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 1204 Owens Road Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2014 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Marijuana and Your Teen Q: Our 17-year-old has completely fallen apart! In less than a year, he’s gone from being an outstanding honors student, athlete, and wellmannered young man that all of his teachers, coaches, and friends raved about to being a mediocre (B/C with the occasional D) student who has decided he’s had enough of playing sports. His attitude has deteriorated as well. He’s often surly and disrespectful. We know he began smoking pot around the same time the downturn occurred, but he assures us he’s not doing that anymore. He says he’s just tired of being “Mr. Goody Two-Shoes.” We took his car away for a few weeks but that had no effect. As he begins his junior year, we are concerned that he’s trashing lots of potential opportunities. Any advice would be appreciated. A: I’ll eat my favorite Panama hat if your son’s not still smoking marijuana on a reg-

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

ular basis. You’re describing precisely the effects pot has on motivation and social behavior (attitude). Deception is a feature as well, including denial of continued use. The research strongly suggests that marijuana use has a very adverse effect on teens. My take is that you are being very naïve, probably because your son has given you little problem to this point and you want to believe these problems are temporary glitches. That may be, but then again, this could be the beginning of a much more destructive decline. I’ve heard too many horror stories to recommend a “wait and see” at this point. You want to believe him, of course, but in the course of doing so, you’re close to becoming enablers. You did well by taking his car away, but you blew it when you gave it back after

a few weeks. The two most likely reasons that that didn’t have any effect are (1) you didn’t take the car away long enough and (2) he knows you’re too soft-hearted and easily manipulated to do so. So, he just waited out the punishment. Schedule him for a surprise drug test. Assuming that comes back positive, you sit him down and tell him he (1) will undergo random drug tests (once every four weeks on average) until he’s been clean for nine months, (2) begin seeing a drug counselor who specializes in working with teens, and (3) will have no use of a car or cell phone until he’s been clean for five months, his grades come up, he’s back in at least one sport, and his attitude at home improves dramatically. In the small likelihood that the drug test comes back negative, sit him down and inform him of (3) above: take his car and cell phone until he is back on track and stays there long enough for you to know that his improvement is not fleeting. Time’s a’wastin’! Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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March of Dimes Breakfast at Chappy’s Deli

Join Chappy's Deli in support of the March of Dimes with the 10th Annual Breakfast for Babies Drive, September 18, 5:30-9:00 a.m., at their Perry Hill Rd location located at 1611 Perry Hill Rd., Montgomery. Enjoy a delicious breakfast and help them raise money to aid in the prevention of premature births in our neighborhood and yours and across the world. For a $6 donation to the March of Dimes you will get: Scrambled Eggs, Bacon, Conecuh Sausage, Biscuit, Cheese Grits, Drink. For a $20 donation to the March of Dimes you will get: The $6 Breakfast and A Limited Edition Breakfast for Babies T-Shirt. For more information or to volunteer, call 334279-6950 or www.chappysdeli.com.

Parenting with Purpose: Understanding ADHD and Autism Diagnosis

Join us for monthly workshops, each Tuesday evening from 6-7 p.m. in September. This month we will discuss the latest research on ADHD and Autism. We encourage you as the parent to share your personal stories and what it is like to parent a child with ADHD and/or Autism. This month’s focus is for you to receive and provide support as you become more educated on what life is like for someone with ADHD and/Autism. The Sarah T. Butler Children’s Center at the Pastoral Institute is at 1515 20th Street, Columbus, Ga. Fee are $50 per person or $90 per couple for the month. Register at www.pilink.org or call 706-649-6500, ext 1361.

17th Annual Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival at Callaway Gardens

Soar into September at our 17th annual Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival. The weekend kicks off with the extraordinary Friday Night Balloon Glow and continues all weekend long. Watch beautiful balloons in flight or hop in a basket for your own tethered balloon ride. Saturday is filled with family-friendly events, including live music, beach activities, a Kids Zone and much more. There's something for everyone with a classic car show, disc dog demonstrations, a pyrotechnic skydiving demonstration, as well as a 5K Race and Triathlon event. If you're a photography buff, you can sign up for our hands-on "Mastering Night Photography" course. Plus, you'll find drink specials and sports on the televisions at the Beach Bar as well as some of Atlanta's toprated food trucks throughout the festival. Cap off the weekend with a final balloon glow Sunday night on Robin Lake Beach. With this exciting line-up of events, surrounded by the natural beauty of Callaway Gardens, there's no better way to say "farewell" to Summer 2015. www.callawaygardens.com.

Discovery Hike and Nature Walk featuring ‘Wildflowers’

Explore the preserve and learn something new each month about plants, wildlife and nature with a trained naturalist who will offer your family fun opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and exercise! Discovery Hikes are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. for families with children ages 5 to 12. Each month features a new seasonal theme. Also, Nature Walks are offered the second Thursday of each month from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. This month enjoy the quest to find the most beautiful wildflowers found on the property! Learn some of the most common ones found in Alabama. The Kreher Preserve & Nature Center is located at 2222 N. College Street, Auburn, just north of the AU Fisheries complex. Email preserve@auburn.edu or call 334-844-8091 for more information. Guided tours are free. Donations are welcomed. Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

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Awesome Goals Soccer

AGS is designed to give children with physical or mental limitations soccer experience. AGS will focus on learning soccer skills in an accepting and safe atmosphere. Physician’s forms are required to play and are included in the registration materials. Preregistration is required. For more info please contact Lynette at awesomegoalssoccer@gmail.com. Free. Ages 5-18. Registration is through September 11 and Season runs October 4-November 15 each Sunday, 2:00-3:00 p.m. at the Opelika SportsPlex.

Expressions of a Braveheart

Braveheart is a fine arts program offering art, music, and dance classes to youth and young adults with moderate to severe disabilities. Schedule will be given out on the first day. For more info please contact John Huling at 705-5560 or JHuling@opelika-al.gov. Free, ages 11-21 years. Begins Sept. 14th, 5:30-7:00 p.m. at the Opelika SportsPlex.

Therapeutics Game Nights

Don’t get bored; instead, join us for game board night, cards, and coloring! We will enjoy playing board games, cards, and have some yummy refreshments. We will meet on the following Friday nights at Dean Road Recreation Center, September 18, October 16, and November 20, from 5:30-7:30 p.m. at Dean Road Rec Center. FREE to Therapeutic Program Participants. Dana Stewart (334) 501-2950 • dstewart@auburnalabama.org.

Therapeutics Exploring Art

Come join this new & fun class for therapeutics as we explore different artists & musicians, while painting & learning all about art. Under the instruction of J. Andrew Henley, K-12 Education Curator of the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, this class is sure to bring out the artist or musician in each one participating! September 18, October 16, and November 20, from 3:30-4:30 p.m. at Dean Road Rec Center. FREE to Therapeutic Program Participants. Contact: Dana Stewart • (334) 501-2950 • dstewart@auburnalabama.org.

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Therapeutics Play Group

Come join your friends for some games, playing basketball, enjoying the playground, and having fun! Tuesdays, September 8-December 8, 3:00-5:00 p.m., at Dean Road Rec Center. FREE to Therapeutic Program Participants. Contact: Dana Stewart • (334) 501-2950 • dstewart@auburnalabama.org.

Spectrum Storytime

Saturday, September 19 at 10:00 a.m. Spectrum Storytime is an educational and interactive program designed for children with sensory integration challenges and their caregivers. For cognitive ages 4 – 7. Registration is required. For more information or to register, please call Youth Services at 501-3196.

Hope for Autism Walk & Family Fun Day 2015

The Annual Hope for Autism Walk and Family Day is a fun community event that supports Chattahoochee Valley families affected by autism. The event includes a one-mile family friendly walk, loads of exciting activities, arts and crafts, food, and exhibitors. Annual Hope for Autism Walk and Family Day has a lot of new and exciting activities to offer- thanks to our generous community sponsors! Families will enjoy free food and music as well as a bouncy castle, face painting, arts and crafts stations, games with other activities to be announced! The event will take place Saturday, September 26th 2015 from 9 a.m. – 12 p.m. at North Highland Church in Columbus, GA. We look forward to seeing you there! This event benefits The Autism Hope Center and Support Group and all proceeds will stay here in the Chattahoochee Valley, where an estimated 2,000 individuals are affected by autism. Participation provides you an opportunity to support these local families. The Autism Hope Center will use proceeds to provide Family Support Grants so local families can receive consultations, specializing training, and community seminars on critical topics such as in-home respite care, life stage transitions, coordinating service agencies, and effective parenting of children with special needs.

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

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

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Preparing for Home Emergencies Welcoming fall brings many wonderful things to mind: crisp apples, colorful leaves, and football. While we prepare our homes and families for another beautiful fall on the Plains, we should also take time to prepare for emergencies. September is National Emergency Preparedness Month and is a great time to review your safety plan and kit. First, consider what types of emergencies could affect your family and develop a plan for these. Including children in open discussions about emergency planning can help them feel prepared in the event that an emergency does occur. Reading books about these topics to your children may help open a line of discussion. For example, a great book for discussing storm preparedness is Clifford and the Big Storm by Norman Bridwell. Make sure to teach children that many types of people can help them in an emergency. Provide examples such as firemen and policemen so that children know who safe adults are. Teach them how and when to call 911 for help. Make sure each child knows the phone number and full name of his/her parents as well as a family member or friend who does not live in your home. Make sure children know where the safe place in your house is in case of inclement weather as well as a meeting place outside in the event of fire. Practice getting to

both of these locations with your children by at least two different routes. Set off your fire alarm and make sure that your children know what it sounds like. Next, perform a home safety check. Search your home for potential fire hazards such as frayed wires or overloaded electrical outlets. Locate your utility mains (gas, water, and electrical) and make sure you know how to turn these off. Keep a wrench near your water and gas valves. Store important documents such as insurance policies, deeds, passports, and family records in a fire proof safe. Make two copies of these documents and store one outside of your home and one in your emergency preparedness kit. Lastly, gather supplies for your emergency preparedness kits. Keep one kit in each vehicle and one in your safe place. Your home kit should contain a battery-powered or crank radio, a flashlight, extra batteries, a first aid kit and any prescription medications, an extra set of keys, matches in a waterproof container, three gallons of water per person and cups for drinking, a three day supply of food, a manual can opener, blankets/sleeping bags, toiletries, a change of clothes and shoes, and a helmet for each family member. Make sure family members with special needs such as infants and the elderly have supplies in the kit as well.

Include infant diapers and formula. Also consider including food and water for your pets. Keep some simple books and games on hand to entertain children, plus moist towelletes and hand sanitizer. Your car kit should contain many similar items and gear for both extreme heat and cold weather. Make sure to keep your disaster plan and supplies up to date. Review and practice this plan every six months, including fire and severe weather drills. Check your stored food and water every six months and replace as needed. Make sure shoes and clothing are age and climate appropriate. Test the batteries in your smoke detector once a month and replace them once a year. These steps are a great way to prepare your family and home for emergencies. For more information on these topics, visit www. ready.gov. Now you can relax and enjoy the many pleasures of a fall spent on the Plains. Dr. Rian Anglin, a board certified pediatrician, was raised nearby in Valley, AL. She attended Auburn University were she graduated summa cum laude with a BS in Molecular Biology. Despite her strong allegiance to Auburn, Dr. Anglin graduated from the University of Alabama School of Medicine in 2007 with her MD. Her passions in practice include promoting early childhood literacy, reducing toxic stress in childhood, and improving the practice of pediatric medicine through office based research. Dr. Anglin is married to her high school sweetheart, Paul. She is delighted to reside in Auburn with her husband and their two sons.

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Autauga County Schools

Coach Flo Visits ACS Campuses

AU Women's Basketball Head Coach Terri WilliamsFlournoy visited three ACS campuses to donate school supplies! Coach Flo also extended the invitation for the schools to come out to "Elementary Day" on December 16, when AUWBB will face Winthrop in Auburn Arena. Pictured, Coach Flo and Pick Elementary Principal Debbie Brooks.

Drake Middle School Holds Dance for Positive Behavior

Drake Middle School held their "Positive Behavior Support" celebration and surprise dance for 6th and 7th graders. The 7th graders were celebrating good test scores from last spring while the 6th graders were exposed to what the positive behavior program is all about while celebrating their transition to middle school!

Relationships are Hatching at Wrights Mill Road

Auburn High School Tiger Connect

3rd graders at Wrights Mill Road Elementary cracked plastic eggs out of the "eagle nests" to see what team they will be on for their three years at WMR. Each team has a specific color and a letter that spells "EAGLES" when put together. The acronym stands for Effort, Attitude, Giving, Leadership, Excellence and Spirit. The students are assigned at random to mixed grade levels, including faculty and staff. This practice encourages building relationships across the entire school. WMR Administrators developed this idea from professional development with the Ron Clark Academy out of Atlanta.

Auburn High School held extended Tiger Connect sessions for incoming 10th graders for students that are new to 405 South Dean Road. The mornings included teacherled tours of the facility, teambuilding activities and scavenger hunts that required students to place names, faces and places of AHS. This was an effort to orient all the new students on campus and was coordinated by a group of AHS faculty who dedicated many summer hours to revamping the program to make it meaningful to students.

ACS Bus Drivers Greet Our Kids Daily

ACS Superintendent Dr. Karen DeLano, along with a group of ACS principals, met with the transportation department during their orientation! The bus drivers are a vital part of the ACS team as they are traveling with precious cargo Monday through Friday. They are also the first and last smile a lot of kids see each school day. The room was full of excitement as these ladies and gentleman are ready to hit the roads and get the school year started off right. Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

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“Wizard of Oz” opens September 10 at OHS

Spirited Art at Carver Primary School

Opelika High Theatre Society presents “The Wizard of Oz” September 10 at 7:00 p.m. September 12 at 7:00 p.m. September 13 at 3:00 p.m. September 17 at 7:00 p.m. September 19 at 7:00 p.m. September 20 at 3:00 p.m. Opelika Center for the Performing Arts, 1700 LaFayette Parkway. Admission $7 for adults and $5 for students at the door. For more information, call 334-745-9715.

Carver Primary Students Saryah Crapps and Valeria Almaraz were the Spirited Art winners in Mrs. Karabasz-Smith’s Classroom for the 2014 – 2015 school year. They were chosen by their 1st grade class for having a caring, dependable, and empathy spirit all year long. Art was donated to Mrs. Karabasz-Smith’s classroom from Spirited Art in Auburn, from which the award was named, for using these loving characteristics throughout the year.

Meal Account Online Payment Service

Auburn City Schools Child Nutrition Program is changing from “My Payments Plus” to MySchoolBucks®! This online payment service will continue to provide a quick and easy way to add money to your student’s meal account using a credit/debit card. You can also view recent purchases, check balances, and set-up low balance alerts for free! www.myschoolbucks.com.

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Autauga County Schools First Day of School Mrs. Powers' class at Northside Intermediate had a great first day of school!

Thumbs up to Ms. Crance's class at West Forest Intermediate!

Yarbrough Elementary

Back to school logic puzzle/scavenger hunt at Opelika Middle School

FOOD, FUN, FAMILY &

SCULPTURE Celebrating the opening of

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

FRIDAY

OCT.

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

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

VENDORS

TOURS, ART ACTIVITIES & A TIGER BOUNCE HOUSE.

Food & d rinks

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Southview Primary

Students in Mrs. Morgan Hilyer's first grade class at Carver Primary spent the first day of school working on the newly installed ClearTouch interactive boards.

Ms. Goree's class at Morris Avenue Intermediate was all smiles on the first day of school!

Southview second graders in Mrs. Bass' class were ready to learn on the first day of school.

Neuro Rehabilitation • Pediatric Rehabilitation • Industrial Rehabilitation Sports Medicine • Sports Performance • Lymphedema Therapy Orthopaedic Therapy • Vestibular Therapy

Opelika 528.1964 • Auburn 844.7616 • Valley 756.1126 rehabworks.eamc.org Follow us A serVice Of

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Autauga County Schools Opelika Middle School students had a great start to the

Mrs. Lancaster's first grade class at Jeter Primary school was all smiles on the first day of school!

new school year!

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

Specializing in Pediatric & Adult Audiology Services

www.hpoal.com

Doctors of Audiology Dr. Beth Hoven, Au.D., CCC-A, F-AAA Dr. Allison Kelly, Au.D., CCC-A, F-AAA

“1-3-6” Research has shown that the critical development stage for speech and hearing is from birth to three years of age.

This has led health professionals to adopt what is known as a “1-3-6” rule where infants are tested one month of age, diagnosed by three months of age, and intervention begun by six months of age. Accepting patients & scheduling hearing tests. 334-521-7501

Accepting Alabama Medicaid & most major Insurance Providers.

Conveniently located @ 2415 Moores Mill Place (next to Publix) Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

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Auburn Early Education Center

Auburn High School

Drake Middle School

Cary Woods Elementary

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Autauga County Schools Wrights Mill Road Elementary

Richland Elementary

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

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

Congratulations to the Liles Smiles no cavity winners! A’mya Brown A’yana Carson Aaron Norris Abby Kate Carney Abby Tillman Abigail Darnell Abigail Peinhardt Abigail Pinnell Abigail Stender Abigail Young Adam Al-Riyami Addie Newman Adisonn Mcconnell Adnrea Hernandez Ahnayah Preston Aiden Barnes Aiden Geon Woo Kim Ajiali Juavez Akeila Driver Alaina Joiner Alan Humphries Alex Holloway Alex Mendez Chilel Alexis Holloway Alicea Rainwater Alli Henderson Alveon Streeter Aly Jones Amelia Mccay Ana Jones Ana Kate Schutt Andrew Akins Ann Langston Hendrix Anna Israel

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Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

Dj Wilkerson Doc Hardy Dominguez Jose Minguel Donavan Sparks Dylan Green Eddie Warren Ej Brooks Elaina Pruitt Elaine M Lee Eli Meadows Elias Hijaz Elijah Ethridge Elijah Rogers Ella Kate Smith Emaline Swenson Emma Eldridge Emma Haridson Emma Nichols Estevan Reyes Ethan Segrest Ethan Walker Everleigh Seawell Evie Ward Faheem Downing Faith Ann Blackmon Ford Chastain Gabrielle Core Genesis Lopez Gianni Spencer Greer Long Haisley Burnette Hal Bradshaw Haleigh Grace Davis Hannah Ford Hannah Pinnell Hannah Spraddling Harleigh Hodgins Harlie Williams Harmony Spraddling Harper Hendrix Hayden Likins Heath Joiner Heaven Fralic

Holland Eaton Howard Barnes Hristopher Pinkard Hudson Banks Hudson Mclaughlin Huntley Marshall Hyram Patton Jr Isaiah Jackson Isaiah Webb Jack Darnell Jack Mckay Jack Norris Jackson Burt Jackson Halverson Jacob Dehotel Jacob Wagoner Jada Finely Jaden Jackson Jaiden Juavez Jailene Thompson Jakalya Moss Jakayla Cooper Jakeira Cooper Jalecia Brooks Jalyrica Ford Jamarcus Watts James Omestiak Jameson Seawell Jamie-Lee Gaither Janie Humphries Jannie Freeman Janya Lockhart Janyria Dennis Jaquarious Adams Jaqueline Reyes Jasmine Finley Jason Howell Javion Brown Javoris Taylor Jayden Barnes Jayden Rosier Jayla Jamya Derrico Jeffrey Shiflett

Jennings Ham Jermandrenique Blue Jerome Brown Jhakari Carter Jillian Byrd John Elliot Thompson John Freeman John Israel Jon Cade Wilson Jordan Wagoner Jorden Davis Joseph Kin Josh Brooks Joshua Ray Joshua Wagoner Jsutin Williams Justin Howell Justin Johnson Justin Paulk K’wana Finley Ka’dyn Deshotel Kailyn Brown Kaleb Williams Kamal Bath Kameron Doherty Kamori Finley Karrington Long Karsten Peterson Kassidy Arnold Kathryn Steen Kayden Aadil Kayden Jennings Kayden Quinn Kelmon Juarez Kennedy Barnes Kennedy Williams Kenslee Russell Kenyan Vann Keondre Underwood Kevin Mendez Chilel Khalia Core Khamar Woody Khaniya Momon

Kiley Brooks Kimbell Nappier Kinsley Walker Kristina Honeycutt La’miracle Driver Ladereke Sanders Landon Smith Landyn Woodall Laura Kate Ray Lauren Luck Lauren Martin Lauryn Jackson Leathie Jackson Lee Ellen Shores Levonte Thompson Liam Pilgrim Lille Casey Lilly-Beth Spivey Lily Escarlera Logan Tate Londyn Wagoner Louis Brooks Luke Norris Lyla Sehnert Mac Lancaster Mackenzie Davis Macon Grace Hardison Madeline Marshall Madison Preston Mae Ward Maggie Brooks Maggie Casey Mahari Reeves Mahogany Flood Makayla Howson Makenzie Wynn Makilah Pendleton Makinley Munnenyn Malachi Burke Mally Nappier Marcus Mcneil Margaret Madsen Mark Hudgins

Markeiah Rowe Mary Clare Nichols Mason Daniels Mason Mattimore Mathias Burke Matthew Rainwater Maurice Spivey Megan Decker Megan Spurlock Melanie Walker Melissa Johnson Memphis Jane Mercy Hallmark Messiah Grooms Micah Clark Micah Howson Michawl Pouncy Michelle Moline Monejhai Morgan Morgan Harrison Morgan Moncrief Morris Stinson Myles Foreman Natalie Ray Naudia Louangkhoth Nevaeh Hicks Nicholas Carpenter Noelle Bulger Olivia Kahn Olivia Seoyoung Lim Olivia Walker Oscar Strickland Paisley Kirk Parker Henderson Payton Eaton Perry Harless Peyton Etheredge Princess Meadows Qmarious Woody Quincey Pruitt Quintrell Williams Raegan Brooks Rayna Juarez

Reagan Moore Reginald Moss Jr Robert Doss Roxy Hardy Rylan Rope Salija Floyd Saniya Bulger Sara Beth Kahn Sarah Beth Smith Savannah Luse Serenity Shuman Shabria Williams Shakeitha Broughton Shakerra Forbes Shamiracle Dunn Shamiya Stinson Shamorria Stinson Shaniyah Stinson Shaterra Forbes Skyler Luse Skylynn Hammond Sophia Sims Stacey Matthews Starke Thomas Stella Henderson Stella Jane Stephen Aiden Treadwell Sukhman Bath Sydnee Seaborn Sydney Salatte Sydney Smith Takira Lockhart Talor Norris Taniah Patterson Taylor Henderson Taylor Pouncy Taylor Steen Thomas Darnell Thomas Spurlock Tommy Decker Tommy Pike Travan Matthews Travis Dennis Jr

Travun Turman Tre Tre’mayne Cannon Tre’shawn Coleman Tremell Williams Trevor Johnson Trevor Surfield Trint Britton Tucker Long Tucker Mclaughlin Tulasia Dennis Ty’dasha Dodson Tykeria Smith Tyler Hufstedler Tyleria Smith Uriah Jackson Virginia Hadley Waler Carpenter Iii Warner Mcdonald Waylon Johnson Wesley Young William Coxwell William Heuermann William Howell William Marshall Wyatt Middleton Xavier Allen Ylan Templeton York Harless Yosef Farquharson Za’hyria Patton Za’niya Turman Zachary Carpenter Zane Place Zanique Mitchell Zari Thomas Zemarion Hughley Zoie Thomas Zukiria Posey Zy’meciah Jones

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Ogletree Elementary

Pick Elementary

Drake Elementary

Auburn Junior High School

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Autauga County Schools

Back to School BBQ at Dean Road Elementary

Dean Road Elementary School's PTO hosted a Back to School BBQ to kick off the upcoming school year with good vibes!

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Variations Dance Studio Wins Two National Titles

Please send your school news and photos each month to: kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com.

Variations Dance Studio dancers won big by being selected as the top routines for both the 11 years and under and the 12 years and up categories in the June Platinum National Dance Competition. Congratulations ladies for your exciting accomplishments!

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Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

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Rebecca Pober Citrin Receives Girl Scouts’ Highest Honor

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama is proud to announce that Rebecca Pober Citrin, from Daphne, was selected by Girl Scouts of the USA as one of ten 2015 National Young Women of Distinction, the highest honor in Girl Scouting, for her Gold Award project on domestic human sex trafficking awareness. This special honor and designation by Girl Scouts of the USA showcases Rebecca’s extraordinary leadership over a project that had measureable and sustainable impact and addressed a global issue. Rebecca saw the need to raise awareness for the second largest organized crime in the world. With the help from numerous people, from law enforcement officers to FBI Special Agents to victims of human trafficking, Rebecca put together a moving documentary and website about the subject that highlights the reasons that human trafficking is such a huge market and how to stop it. Elizabeth Brent, CEO of Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama said, “We are delighted that Rebecca Pober Citrin received this prestigious award. Her work, on a very difficult and painful topic, brings to light an issue that is important. Rebecca's Gold Award project was well researched, balanced and provided a video depiction of how human trafficking happens. We know that because of this honor many others will be exposed to her video and hope it will provoke change.” Both the Kappa Delta Foundation and Girl Scouts of the USA each generously provided a $5,000 college scholarship to all of the ten National Young Women of Distinction, including Rebecca. Additionally, she was awarded a Loucretia Hollingsworth Scholarship through Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama for $1000. This year, Rebecca will be honored at a national recognition ceremony hosted by Girl Scouts of the USA. She will also be featured in a livestreaming TED Talk event with her fellow National Young Women of Distinction. Both the recognition ceremony and livestream will be held on October 7, 2015, in New York. Earning the Gold Award is just one of the fun and amazing things girls can do as part of Girl Scouts. To join Girl Scouts or learn more about volunteering, please visit: www. girlscouts.org/join.

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Comprehensive Trinity offers a complete K – 12 classical, Christian education, including many enriching activities such as sports, band, choral ensemble, performing arts, and various student organizations.

A Classical and Christian Academy 745-2464

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Autauga County Schools

Gardening at Opelika Middle School

OHS Anchor Club Helps at the Opelika Community Garden

The OHS Anchor Club members helped paint the fences at the Opelika Community Garden as a community service project this summer. Pictured (l-r) back row: Mikayla Jackson, Ashley Grubbs, Cidney Woodson, Alexis Shepard, J.T. Strickland, and Shawn Nochumson. Pictured (l-r) front row: Celeste Frazier, Leah Vaughn, Rebecca Strong, Vashti Davis, and Vaniya Davis.

Ms. Moore's students worked hard in the school garden at OMS during the first few days of school.

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AHS Football Gets New Helmets

Head Coach Adam Winegarden unveiled the new Auburn High School football helmets to the team at Duck Samford Stadium. This surprise donation was made possible through private donors including NFL player/AHS Alum DeMarcus Ware, Builders Choice in Auburn and two other unnamed donors. This reveal remained under wraps with players being unaware of the donation until this afternoon. The existing helmets will still be utilized in practice as these helmets are meant for games only. “I wanted to give back to the Auburn community that has been so good to me,” Ware said. “My hope is that this investment in new football gear for Auburn High will keep the next generation of Auburn High School Football players safe. “The future of AHS Football is bright, and I am proud to support the players, coaches and administrators that work hard every day to improve the program.” For a more extensive look at THE HELMET REVEAL please visit the ACS Facebook page: https://www.facebook. com/ACSPublicRelations.

Institute Day Focuses on “One Best Thing”

Auburn City Schools hosted Institute Day in the Auburn Performing Arts Center at Auburn High with the theme of "One Best Thing." This annual gathering of teachers, administrators and support staff from all 11 campuses offers the opportunity for ACS educators to come together and make sure their batteries are recharged before starting a new school year. The speakers included words of gratitude from Board of Education President Matt Clegg, a call to action by Judge Mike Fellows to nominate students for the “Character in Action” award, which is given on a monthly basis to students who go out of their way to do the right thing and a charge to all employees to try to be the “One Best Thing” for the kids of ACS from

Superintendent Dr. Karen DeLano. The special guest of the morning was motivational speaker Robert Hudson. His talk was full of humor and practical knowledge on how to deal with difficult people, motivate others, manage behavior and handle stress/ burnout. Hudson is director of Training at Glenwood, Inc. in Birmingham and is author of the novel “The Center of the Wheel”. 21

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Autauga County Schools

Auburn HS Reconnect

Opelika HS Engineering

Auburn High School’s Reconnect sessions were a huge success! Students picked up their schedules, parking permits, and picked up some cool AHS t-shirts!

Engineering students at OHS were hard at work building models the first week of school.

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

EVERY TIME YOU SEE THIS TAG, REMEMBER THAT AN ALABAMA CHILD IS BATTLING CANCER ... AND RECEIVING WORLD-CLASS CARE WITHOUT EVER LEAVING OUR STATE.

Over the past decade, Alabama’s Curing Childhood Cancer tag has raised more than $2.5 million for childhood cancer research and treatment programs at Children’s of Alabama.

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If you already have our tag, be sure to renew it at your local Department of Motor Vehicles. If not, please purchase one when it’s time for a new tag.

Buy a tag. Alabama children are counting on you! curingchildhoodcancer.org

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CPR at OHS

Students in Mrs. Kemp's health class worked on CPR procedures during the first week of school.

i i o j e s e P le s for u Friday, October 9 6 -9:30 p.m.

Cary Woods Elementary After Care Oh what fun we have in Cary Woods ASP!

An Indian SummerNight is a self-guided art walk featuring an artist market, late night shopping, music by the Bama Gamblers, children’s activities and a culinary theme of BBQ! An Indian SummerNight is a FREE, downtown entertainment district event hosted by the City of Auburn / distri Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn Arts Association and Auburn Downtown Merchant Association.

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SMARTER ENROLL NOW to give your child an academic advantage this school year! Kumon Math & Reading of Auburn - Opelika 1550 Opelika Road #9, Auburn, 36830

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Auburn City Schools Child Nutrition Program had a great start to the new year with health and wellness speakers! Training was led by Maureen Alexander with Fit Kid Solutions. CNP also thanks Dr. John Tole for speaking to everyone on food allergies.

Health and Wellness at Auburn City Schools

334.501.8586 • kumon.com/auburn-opelika-al * Offer valid at participating Kumon Centers only when you enroll between 9/1/15 - 10/8/15. Contact the center for promotional discount.

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Autauga County Schools

Auburn Jr. High Student Organizes 5K/Fun Run to Benefit Alzheimer’s

Auburn Junior High 9th grader, Laurel Ramey, has started a 5K and Fun Run to benefit a cause close to her heart. Her grandmother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s a year ago and Laurel decided last January to do something about it by organizing a 5K and a one mile fun run to support Alzheimer’s research. She went to local businesses over the summer and raised $1,800 so far in sponsors. The “Let’s Jog Their Memory Alzheimer’s Run” will be on September 5th in Town Creek Park at 7 a.m. AORTA will be coordinating the timing and offering extras such as a virtual dementia tour, vendor booths, etc. www.letsjogtheirmemory.weebly.com.

The 2015-2016 Auburn High School Tiger Ambassadors

Opelika HS Football Team Enjoys Ice Cream After Practice

Following football practice, the OHS Bulldogs were treated to "Dawg Chow" ice cream compliments of O Town Ice Cream.

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ACS Board of Education Honors Coach Chris Brandt

The AHSAA awarded Coach Christ Brandt the “Making The Difference Award” for his work within the basketball programs of ACS. This award is given to the coach that makes a significant impact in a student/athlete’s life on and off the court/field. Brandt was honored at an awards banquet on July 24th in Montgomery along with the three 7A State Champion (Cross Country, Indoor Track and Girls Swim/Dive) teams from past year. In addition to coaching basketball Brandt also coaches football in the fall and track in the spring. Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

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Auburn Chamber of Commerce Holds Tuesday Talk

ACS Director of Football Operation and Head Coach of AHS Tiger Football, Adam Winegarden, was the guest speaker at this month's Auburn Chamber of Commerce "Tuesday Talk." Winegarden discussed some of his upbringing as well as the goals of the football program. You may have seen the hash-tag #‎ I NAM on social media or on the warm-up gear of his players; that acronym stands for “It’s Not About Me,” a mentality that is setting the tone for this year’s team. Coach challenged the community to embrace Auburn High School Football while he focuses on developing our student-athletics on the field, in the classroom and around the community.

Please send your school news and photos each month to: kendra@ auburnopelika parents.com.

Auburn City Schools Raise Over $50,000 for AHA

Elementary campuses within Auburn City Schools raised more than $50,000 for the American Heart Association this past year through the "Jump Rope for Heart" campaign! 25

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A Page in a Book Sharing the Joy of Generosity A pacifier, a bottle, a favorite toy, a security blanket; these are some of the first things that a young child senses are uniquely their own. But as toddlers age into the years of interactive play with their peers, and their landscape of ‘things’ broadens, learning to share can be the difference between frustrated tears and peace in the realm. The following titles explore the natural feelings children experience regarding their possessions (or things they want to possess) and open up positive conversations about sharing. With a focus on the good feelings that sharing can generate, these books give a boost to the joy of generosity!

Bernice Gets Carried Away

by Hannah E. Harrison (Dial / Penguin) Bernice is having a lousy time at her friend’s party. She receives the only piece of cake without a frosting rose. The pinata is opened before she even has a chance to take a swing at it (and the only candy she finds from it is one stepped-on gumdrop). But when the balloons arrive, Bernice isn’t taking any chances. She grabs all the balloons – which quickly lift her up and away from the party! As Bernice floats away, she passes others who are having equally bad days. Sharing her bounty of balloons becomes the key to boosting the moods of others as well as getting Bernice back down to the party. Touching on the real feelings that can spark possessive reactions, Harrison’s expressive illustrations relate the journey to generosity with warm humor that will delight both children and adult read-aloud partners.

Red Panda’s Candy Apples

by Ruth Paul (Candlewick Press) Red Panda makes the best sticky and sweet candy apples. So he decides to make some to sell, looking forward to the reward of coins in his jar. But he soon discovers that it’s hard to let go of something that you’d like to keep (and eat) yourself. Red Panda’s brisk business quickly leaves him with only one apple left, and his last two customers fighting over it. When the struggle over the last apple turns to tears, Red Panda remembers a secret solution that will let everyone enjoy a candy apple. Exploring the mixed feelings that we get when we share the things we love, the real joy of giving comes to the fore in this sweet title.

Llama Llama Time to Share

by Anna Dewdney (Viking / Penguin) Children playing together for the first time can be a dance of mutual discovery as they feel out each others boundaries, seek out common interests, and learn what things are sometimes hard to share. When Llama Llama meets new neighbor Nelly Gnu for the first time, he’s not sure what they will both enjoy playing together. After a cautious start, the two slowly discover a shared interest in building blocks and it looks like the play date is going to be successful. But when Nelly starts to play with Llama Llama’s beloved Fuzzy Llama doll, all bets are off as tears (the wet kind) and tears (the ripping kind) erupt between the new playmates. With parents to help guide the way, Llama Llama and Nelly find a path toward sharing that mends the moment and paves the way toward smoother shared play in the future for these new friends. Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

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Q. My wife and I are thinking about selling our home. I was recently let go from the military due to downsizing, and I’ve begun a job in real estate but things are starting slowly. My wife brings home about $3,500 a month as a teacher, and the only debt we have is our house payment of $1,616 a month. I was given a $35,000 severance package, but we need some advice to help bridge the financial gap. A.

Having little or no income is a lot harder than a variable income situation. Your wife is bringing home good money, but at the moment your house payment is almost half that amount. Are there some things you can do on the side while you’re getting your real estate business going that will create income? If you could make even $1,000 to $2,000 a month it would change the picture entirely. You guys would be able to keep your home and have a little breathing

room while you get your real estate career off the ground. Looking at it from a long-term perspective, if you’re selling a bunch of houses a year or two from now, you’re in the clear. You could easily stay in the house. But if you don’t find extra income while you build your business, if you’re not willing to work extra hard and sacrifice in the meantime — even if it means just delivering pizzas — then you probably need to sell the house. It takes about six to nine months to start making a living in the residential real estate business. So look at it this way: the more houses you sell, the less time you spend delivering pizzas. All this really hinges on is how badly you want a career in real estate and how much you guys want to keep your home. If you want it enough, you’ll do what it takes to get there. And for the time being, that’s going to mean supplementing your income with something on the side while you grow your real estate business!

Q. We’ve made an offer on a house we really like through a first-time buyers program. Now, after looking over our budget and debts again, my wife and I are having second thoughts. We haven’t signed or turned in any paperwork yet. What do you think we should do? A. I wouldn’t go through with the deal. I advise people to be debt-free before buying a home, because you want a home to be a blessing, not a curse. Homeownership when you’re broke is never a good idea. And basically, that’s the situation you’re describing. You have debt, and you’re trying to squeak into something with a first-time buyers plan. The translation? You have no money. Everything that can go wrong will go wrong. That’s Murphy’s Law, and he’ll move into your spare bedroom along with his three cousins — Broke, Desperate and Stupid. Get your debts paid off, build up an emergency fund, and save up a good down payment before buying a home. I know that’s not the popular answer, but it’s the smart one!

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Understanding social cues and forging new friendships can be challenging and scary for special needs children. It is the very personal interaction between two people that has the potential to cause anxiety. Helping your child build social skills will help with family relationships, peer/classroom interaction, and their future jobs. Social skills help us positively bond and interact with those around us and is a “language” that children learn differently. Here, we will go over some of “the rules” associated with social skills, as it relates to special needs children, and how to encourage these interactions. Patience, persistence and encouragement is key!

The Do’s

Eye Contact: Eye contact is used to convey listening and value. Everybody likes to be heard, and eye contact helps Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

reassure the speaker that he or she is being listened to! Below are some methods used by families and professionals to help encourage eye contact when working with children: The sticker method: Place a sticker on your forehead. Sit down at eye level with the child and engage them in eye contact, even if only building up to 60 seconds. Encourage them to continue to look at the sticker as long as they can. Once you feel your child has become more comfortable looking at the target, you can begin to involve conversation. Puppets: Puppets are a fun and nonthreatening tool that can be used to help develop eye contact when held near your face. This encourages the child to interact with an object with the goal to lead up to making eye contact with you while you 28

talk. Having your child talk to a picture of a person may be helpful as well, possibly making it less intimidating. Another tool can be to use social outings to “people watch” and/or watch television with your child while pointing out the social skills you are working on. Drawing attention to two individuals, who are looking at each other’s faces while talking, can help reinforce the lessons you are trying to teach. Make a big deal out of it. When your child is able to maintain eye contact for the desired amount of time, rewards work best! You can verbally reward the child such as “Way to look my way!”, a high five, or a treat such as a sticker, M&M or whatever currency your child will respond to. Just make sure that you convey how proud you are of them (all while making eye contact, of course)! www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Taking turns: Taking turns when talking is a skill learned in real life that needs real practice. Below, you will find some helpful ideas for helping your child understand this process. Talking Stick: A talking stick is an old Native American tool used for speaking. One person has the opportunity to talk while holding the stick, while the others must remain silent. Timers: An hourglass or other visual timer can be a useful tool when helping children understand the dance of language. The visual cue allows the child to see how much time they have to talk, or how much time the other person has to talk. While one person is talking, the other person must practice their listening skills. Should you feel your child may become anxious while waiting, consider use of a soothing item or “stimming” item to help alleviate the anxiety until it is their turn.

Our team’s top priority is to deliver orthodontics in a friendly, comfortable environment. We love getting to know our patients, and understand that orthodontic treatment is unique to each individual. We offer board certified orthodontic care for children and adults, traditional and ceramic braces, invisalign and payment plans.

Call us today to schedule your complimentary evaluation!

Group stories: This can be a fun, entertaining and very easy tool. One person starts off a story (keeping it limited to a few sentences); then “passes the story off” to the next person, who adds more to the story; then on to the next person! Everybody involved would have to have a clear understanding that it is a fun “game” and that nobody can get mad if the story doesn’t go the way they want it to. Keep it silly and fun. This can be a wonderful game to play while in the car or waiting at the doctor’s office or at your favorite restaurant. Board games: This is a fun activity for everybody that encourages taking turns. Certain toys such as building blocks can encourage teamwork as you work on building something together! The use of a social story: “Using social stories at home and in therapy are a perfect way to address possible social situations, which may arise in a child’s day-to-day life. By role playing or reading a social story, the child can work through these situations and learn how to react or handle possible social problems, such as bullying, understanding body language, or classroom etiquette. The use of social stories is not limited to the Autism Spectrum population. These social stories are beneficial for any child with difficulty in social relationships, attention, or classroom participation,” states Caroline Stough, Speech Pathologist with Easter Seals Central Alabama. There are a wide variety of social stories available through many books and websites. You can also learn how

passionate care. m co , d n ki h ug ro iles th Building healthy sm 334-501-7000 thamesorthodontics.com w to create your own unique social story for your unique situation. At the bottom of this article, you will find some helpful websites and books to help you identify the social story that may fit your child’s need.

The Don’ts:

Don’t criticize. Your child is learning a new skill. Although it can require a great deal of patience, understanding, and perseverance on your part, make sure to keep any frustrations you have “in check”. Criticizing your child can lead to self-consciousness, inappropriate behavior, and resentment. Try to find 29

ways to encourage yourself as well as your child! Don’t look away. For busy parents who are cooking dinner, going through mail, on the computer or involved in other numerous tasks, be mindful of making eye contact every time you interact with your child. Try not to yell down the hall or speak to them while loading clothes into the dryer. Be sure to look at your child when they are talking to you, and have them look at you (as much as possible). AOP Varina Mead is the Director of Marketing at Easter Seals Central Alabama.

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Calling Kids to the Kitchen

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

When a child begins to show the markings of a young chef, it’s important to foster that interest early! Before the ease of prepackaged treats and the accessibility of convenience food sings its siren song, introduce kids first to the pleasures and rewards of real cooking. From prepping the mix and crafting the plate to consuming something delicious that they made by themselves – engaging a child’s interest in the kitchen is a great recipe for cultivating their nutritional education and expanding tastes. The following items are recommended early introductions to cooking for the kids with culinary interests!

by Gerry Paige Smith

Curious Chef 16-Piece Cupcake Set

Moose Toys Chocolate Bar Maker

There are no half measures when it comes to cooking with Curious Chef. This 16-piece Cupcake Set includes a 6-cup muffin tin, frosting decorator, 6 frosting tip designs, 6 silicone cup liners, frosting spreader, stickers and more that quickly move a little chef straight to the business of cooking. With a shopping list included, young foodies can tailor their recipe choices to their own taste as they plan their cupcake menu. This set features real dishwasher-safe cooking implements that are made with kids’ size and safety in mind. If your kid’s mind is on food preparation, foster their culinary interest by giving them the tools to have a hand in the cooking as well!

Young confectioners get an easy introduction to candymaking with this Chocolate Bar Maker set that lets them remake favorite chocolate flavors into their own signature taste combinations and styles. Using a microwave to melt their favorite chocolate, little hands can then squeeze the soft medium into the shapes of their choice. They also have the option of adding their own toppings, wrappings, stickers and more to give their own creative touches to the sweets they craft. Ideal for the budding chef with a sweet tooth, the Moose Toys Chocolate Bar Maker is a sweet start for little chocolate lovers with big ideas!

(Easy Chef)

(Curious Chef)

YayLabs Play and Freeze Ice Cream Ball

Easy-Bake Ultimate Oven

There’s nothing that tastes quite as authentic as homemade ice cream. For the younger set, waiting for the traditional ice cream churn is the real challenge. Enter YayLabs’ Play and Freeze Ice Cream Ball that keeps kids engaged in the process from start to delicious finish. Just add the ice cream mix in one side, ice and salt in the other, lock it down and get the ball rolling. Kids passing, flipping, spinning and shaking the ball generates the movement needed to activate the icing process which takes about 15 – 20 minutes. Time flies (and ice cream freezes) while you’re having fun! It needs no electricity so it’s perfect for young chefs to take along to the beach, on camping trips, picnics and more! The best homemade ice cream is on a roll with the Play and Freeze Ice Cream Ball.

The new Easy-Bake oven gets a big makeover with a sleek new design, more safety features and a cosmetic overhaul that makes it appealing to chefs of all ages. Simply whip of a batch of cookies with the included mix, then shape and set them on the small baking pan. Once the oven is preheated, just slide the pan into the slot on one side using the pan tool. When the cook time is complete and the cool down period finished, your pan of delicious cookies can be removed from the slot on the other side. Refill mixes and additional tools are available from Easy-Bake as well. Nostalgia for the heat lamp ancestor of this popular kids appliance is quickly replaced with fresh appreciation for this all new cooking tool that makes kids’ baking easier than ever.

(YayLabs)

(Hasbro)

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

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Becoming Mindful About Photos Social media has become the new back fence, a place where parents can tell stories, swap tips and even brag a bit. A recent survey from the Pew Research Center found that moms, in particular, give and get lots of encouragement as well as useful parenting information from networks like Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Instagram. Almost all of these efforts involve photos which would be great if those photos would stay put. Unfortunately, they don’t. Photos of cute kids—especially babies—have been misappropriated by people who use them for their own, sometimes dubious, purposes. Baby role playing, for example, involves young women who use random photos of children to fantasize about motherhood. By posting pics and inventing details about babies they don’t now, they attract attention on social media. In these so-called digital kidnappings, the child may not be in physical danger. Still, most parents find it disconcerting to see their child’s face in someone else’s fantasy, especially if there’s a preoccupation with breastfeeding or bathtime. In other cases, parents have stumbled across familiar photos that have been used in advertising or to create memes, those Internet placards that sometimes take on a life of their own. Obviously, people vary a great deal in what they feel comfortable saying on social media, and parenthood doesn’t necessarily change that. Some new parents find that they are very protective about a baby’s online presence; others become Mommy bloggers who build a loyal following by chronicling intimate details about domestic life. All parents should, however, think seriously about what impact a post that seems cute today may have on a child in the future. Just as couples need to negotiate what they are willing to share on social media, parents

must also try to imagine how a child will feel when he or she is an eye-rolling eight year old, an easily embarrassed teen or a young adult looking for a job. How can parents balance the benefits of social networking with its risks? Here are a few tips. Use privacy settings. The report from Pew found that parents typically had 150 friends on Facebook, and of those, one third were “actual” friends. Consider sharing photos of kids only with those friends. Most social media sites make it easy to establish different groups within your FB community. (Details about setting privacy settings for the main social media venues are available at socialmediaexaminer.com/social-media-privacy-settings/.) Go through your network and think about whether your relationship is close enough to share details about your child. Grandparents, other family members, close friends? Absolutely! Colleagues, associates and friends of friends. Probably not. Share your reshare policy. Even if you are careful about privacy, photos can escape your network if they are reshared. To discourage resharing, remind friends and family that photos are “for your eyes only.” Talk to other parents, too. Explain your concerns about over-sharing and ask that they not post photos of playdates and other outings without your permission. Extend the same courtesy to them. Use a nickname. Instead of using your child’s real name, use a pseudonym. This makes it harder to connect an escaped photo with your family. It will also spare your child the embarrassment of having baby pics show up when someone Googles them in the future. Make copying difficult. A few techniques will make it harder for people to use your photos for other purposes. Try saving photos with the lowest possible resolution. Not only will the file transmit more quickly, but it will also be blurry if someone tries to enlarge it. Parents can also borrow a trick from professional photographers by putting a signature or watermark on photos. Visualwatermark.com is one of several free services that make it easy to brand digital pics. 31

No naked pictures. Ever. No matter how cute or innocent they may seem, naked pictures should not be posted online. Even if you don’t attract the attention of a predator or run afoul of the obscenity standards on your social network, you run the risk of distributing a picture that will be used to harass your child in the future. Use an alternative album. Some parents use social media as a kind of baby album, keeping track of firsts as they happen. Really important photos deserve better protection. Try making albums on password protected sites like Flickr or Photobucket. Share passwords only with family members and other trusted friends who really want to see all your great photos. Back up photo files in the cloud and on a separate hard or flash drive. For photos that really matter, consider making prints or photo books which are likely to last longer than any digital format. Be selective. Taking digital pictures is sooooo easy. Be ruthless about culling your photos. Review and delete at least once a week. And only share photos that are special in some way. Close-ups with only a few props tend to be more interesting, and they also make it harder for strangers to identify your child or locate your home. Post vacation pictures after you return home so people won’t know when your house is unoccupied. **Now that every cell phone includes a camera, parents also need to think about when photos are an intrusion. Yes, childhood is fleeting and a photo can help you remember. But photos can also turn you into an observer instead of a participant, especially if you are thinking ahead to the number of “likes” a photo will get on social media. Instead of reflexively reaching for the camera, get in the habit of asking whether a photo will deepen—or interrupt— a special moment with your child. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., raised three computer savvy kids including one with special needs. She has been writing Growing Up Online for ten years and is working on a book about constructive responses to conflict. Visit www.growing-up-online.com to read other columns. @ Copyright, 2015, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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sages and made notes in the margins. I created an impressive section of resources in my personal library about each of my kids’ special needs. During each visit I asked my child’s therapists about treatment and outcomes, recommendations of what to read, what I might expect, and clarification of my questions. I did the same with my daughter’s teachers and therapists when she attended developmental preschool. I took notes, notebooks full of notes. I was driven by my love for her as well as trying to assure she was physically, emotionally, and psychologically safe.

Parents are natural advocates for their children. We love our children, and we want the best for them. As a mother of four children, three with special needs, I know how important it is to advocate for my children. There is no one who will be more committed to making sure my children have access to the support, treatment, and education they are guaranteed more than me. My youngest daughter was my second child to be diagnosed with special needs (each of my kids have different special needs). I was at first overwhelmed by my lack of knowledge and intimidated by how to best advocate for what she would require in school, when I did not yet know myself. I chose to dive in. Great hope impelled me. First steps: accept your child’s diagnosis and become the expert about it. Gather information about your child’s special needs diagnosis, recommended remedial techniques, and treatment. Learn all you can about your child’s special needs. Break the information into terms that you can understand. This will help others appreciate your child’s special needs when you share the information with them. I needed to fully comprehend my daughter’s diagnosis and the recommended care and treatments (therapies). I felt I would be a far more effective advocate for my child if my knowledge about my child’s special need bordered on encyclopedic. I fast-tracked my education. I purchased books, highlighted passages, and wrote in the margins where I required further clarification, discovered something I desired to learn more about, or wanted to share with others. I went online to reputable websites and printed out articles. And similar to my expanding collection of books about my daughter’s special needs, I highlighted pasAuburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

Become über-organized.

I purchased two 3-inch, 3-ring binders and index pages with pockets. One binder contained written records-sections for my child’s initial diagnosis and follow-up reports; therapy goals and therapy progress reports; copies of bills; medical paperwork; IEPs (Individualized Education Plans)--the original and future updates; and teacher emails, notes, and cards, etc. The other binder was my personal “education primer.” It held 3-holed college lined paper full of my journal entries; questions and the answers to them; definitions of terms--technical and layman; and highlighted recommended resources; and the printed articles about the diagnosis my child had been given. I made sure every paper that went into both binders was dated.

Learn about your child’s rights.

Legally, children with special needs are entitled to an “appropriate” education. Your child should have access to “specially designed instruction” (20 U.S.C. §1401) to meet their unique needs. Learn what this means for your child. 32

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Become competent about the “rules of the game.” Research and understand your state’s and the federal education laws and regulations. These federal laws apply to children with special needs: The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) http://idea.ed.gov The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) http://www.dol.gov/dol/topic/disability/ada.htm Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 http://www.hhs.gov/ocr/civilrights/resources/ factsheets/504.pdf

Do a search in your library or online to learn about cases similar to your child’s to answer your questions. Be informed about the procedures you must follow in your school to protect your child’s rights and yours. Print the legal rights, regulations and procedures out. Add these to the binder that has your child’s diagnosis information.

Be prepared. Build healthy relationships with your child’s team--therapists, doctors, and school. This encompasses preparation and planning for meetings with your child’s doctors, therapist, and teachers and aides. Be polite, firm, and persistent. Create a meeting agenda with your objectives: items such as addressing issues or test scores, clarifying treatment or goals, identifying problems, proposing solutions, or to firm up agreements. Focus on solutions. Share this ahead of time with the team members you are meeting with. This allows them to be prepared as well.

Take care of yourself. Parenting a child with special needs is challenging, sometimes downright exhausting. We moms typically give and give, until there is little to nothing left to give. And then we find we cannot be the parents we wish to be for our kids. Give yourself permission to put yourself first for a minimum of an hour each day. Have someone you trust watch your child if she or he is at home while you embrace “me” time. Take a walk; sit in silence, garden, or do yoga. Do something that will replenish your mama stores and bring you back to balance. AOP Judy M. Miller is a freelance writer living in the Midwest with her husband and four children. She is a Gottman Educator and the author of What To Expect From Your Adopted Tween, a guide for adoptive parents, and Writing to Heal Adoption Grief: Making Connections & Moving Forward, a workbook for older adopted teens and adopted adults.

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LOCAL COMMUNITY RESOURCES Autism Society of Alabama (ad on page 8)

The Autism Society of Alabama (ASA) responds daily to requests for information. 877-4AUTISM. www.autism-alabama.org 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. 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.

for individuals of ALL ages with hearing concerns. We believe that children and adults with hearing loss deserve the opportunity to receive competent and reliable hearing healthcare close to home. We specialize in identifying, diagnosing, treating, monitoring and preventing hearing disorders. Hearing Professionals of Alabama also offers the most innovative hearing aid technology at affordable prices which you can receive in a relaxed and easy-to-access clinic setting. The ultimate purpose of all work in our office is to improve the quality of life for children and adults with hearing loss through our knowledge and compassion.

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2415 Moore’s Mill Road, Suite 225, Auburn 334.521.7501; www.hpoal.com We are committed to providing the most comprehensive and professional audiological care Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

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2 Locations: 2515 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn. 334-826-0078 and 119 Market Place, Montgomery. 334-260-3767. www.precisionmedicalsolutions.com Brace Yourself for Life! Precision Medical Solutions strives to provide help to hurting people during their times of need. We carry a complete line of bracing, for children and adults, for most every part of the body.

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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. kelly.shaw@ eamc.org.

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Hearing Professionals of Alabama

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RehabWorks 4 Kids

Easter Seals Alabama

Consists of eight community 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. Easter Seals Achievement Center- 510 W Thomason Circle, Opelika, AL. 334-745-3501 Camp ASCCA Easter Seals- 5278 Camp ASCCA Drive, Jackson’s Gap, AL. 256-825-9226 or 800843-2267. A special place where campers with disabilities have the opportunity 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, repelling, zip-line, water tubing, archery and rifle range, mini-golf course, paved nature trails, and more. www.campascca.org Easter Seals Central Alabama- 2125 East South Boulevard, Montgomery, AL. 334-288-0240.

Education. Each Lead Teacher has the support of a full-time Teacher Assistant. Through a partnership with Auburn University we provide training at both the undergraduate and graduate level for a number of disciplines including Education, Human Development and Family Sciences, and Psychology.

The Little H.A.P.I.E. Tree Preschool (Helping Auburn

Parents-Intervening Early)

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721 E. University Drive, Auburn, 887-4956. The preschool program is designed to provide intensive early intervention services for children with developmental disabilities ages 3-5 years old. We utilize strategies based on the science of applied behavior analysis (ABA) in teaching our children. We also offer speech therapy, occupational therapy, and physical therapy as needed for children enrolled. The primary focus of intervention is language acquisition but additional areas such as self-care skills, play skills, social skills, and pre-academic skills in preparation for kindergarten are also important. Our teachers plan developmentally and age appropriate lessons for children enrolled and utilize thematic teaching. Additional teaching procedures used at Little H.A.P.I.E. Tree include but are not limited to the following: discrete trial teaching, incidental teaching, least-to-most prompting sequences, most-to-least prompting sequences, shaping, reinforcement and differential reinforcement. There are four classrooms, each of which is supervised by a Lead Teacher certified in Early Childhood Special

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• Alabama Scottish Rite Learning Centers-offers evaluations for Alabama school age children, generally age 7 through 9th Grade. Program has a network of speech/language pathologists, available to perform this free service. Children from all over Alabama are evaluated at various locations as time and funding permit. If you have a child at least 7 years old (and has been in a structured reading program for at least 6 months) that is exhibiting signs of learning language deficits, the speech, language and literacy evaluation will facilitate early identification and intervention for language learning differences. www.alsrlcenter.org/ALSR_Learning_Center/Welcome • All for Children-2290 Moores Mill Road, Suite 400, Auburn. 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. 288-3432. Caregiver Support- Oak Park Dining Room, 1365 Gatewood Drive, Auburn. 3rd Thursday of the month. For more information or to reserve your spot, contact Cheri Rudgers 826-1899. 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. 288-3432.

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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

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,

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

Call for FREE DVD and catalog 1-800-882-0722 Accredited by American Camping Association • Members of Christian Camping International

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

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• Autism Hope Center- 706 604 6333. www.autismhopecenter.com The Autism Hope Center is a free resource to both families and professionals throughout the Chattahoochee Valley. Since 2005, we have been instrumental in bringing programs, services, and support to individuals and their families in our area. We host a monthly support group and a number of monthly inclusive events. Additionally, the center

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dispensing, assistive listening devices, and auditory rehabilitation. Motor Behavior Lab- in the Department of Health and Human Performance provides a motor development program for kindergarten children with low motor proficiency. 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 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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• 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 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- The largest chapter of Best Buddies

International, an international organization that promotes one-to-one friendships between college students and buddies. Founded in 1989 by Anthony Kennedy Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant, international organization that has grown from one original chapter to almost 1,500 chapters worldwide. Best Buddies programs engage participants in each of the 50 United States, and in 50 countries around the world. As a result of their involvement with Best Buddies, people with IDD secure rewarding jobs, live on their own, become inspirational leaders, and make lifelong friendships. The chapter won the Most Outstanding Chapter Award at the Best Buddies International Leadership Conference, held in July 2013. 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. 844-2004. Speech and Hearing Clinic- Haley Center, 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 assessments related to language/speech delay, developmental delay, autism, cleft palate, stuttering, voice disorders, feeding/swallowing, and literacy. Auditory treatments include hearing aid selection and

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I Can Cope- EAMC Health Resource Center, Opelika. 288-3432. General cancer educational program for recently diagnosed cancer patients. Look Good…Feel Better- 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. American Cancer Society- 3054 McGehee Rd, Montgomery. 334-288-3432. Offers free wigs, turbans, and hats to cancer patients.

FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF

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helps connect families to advocates and helps promote self-advocacy. • Benson Behavior Services Jon N. Benson, M.S.,BCBA, jnbenson1@hotmail. com; 334-452-1709. “From Challenge to Change”. Practical behavior therapy for parents and teachers. Offering in-home or school-based behavior therapy for autism and developmental disabilities. Hours and availability determined on a case-by-case basis. • 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 primary 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. • Cast Ministries.org- Auburn, AL. 332-8411 and 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.” • Food Allergy Families of East Alabama Our mission is to provide a supportive environment to those affected by food allergies and to network in order to share ideas and to educate ourselves and others while raising public awareness. For more information, visit our website at www.foodallergyfamiliesEA.org or email Crystal@foodallergyfamiliesEA.org • Hospice of East Alabama Medical Center665 Opelika Road, Auburn, AL. 826-1899; 800-3034677. 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 Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

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. • Lee County Autism Resource & Advocacy742-2694. Opelika. After realizing the need for a local non-profit for the benefit of the autism families in Lee County, a group of dedicated parents has worked to develop Lee County Autism Resource & Advocacy. Together with educators, business professionals and parents we hope to bring the communities of Lee County a better understanding of autism spectrum disorders and how families are affected as well as provide workshops, trainings and support for educators and parents. Monthly meetings will be held the 2nd Tuesday of each month. Age appropriate social groups are also available. Like us on Facebook (Lee County Autism Resource & Advocacy). • March of Dimes Alabama Chapter- Birmingham, 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. • Smith Group Behavioral Consulting www.smithgroupbehavioralconsulting.com; 3329077 (cell with confidential voicemail). Autism, Developmental Disabilities, Organizational Behavior Management, and Education. 1) Working with Educators: Behavioral observation and consultation, functional assessments and functional analyses of maladaptive behavior, skill assessments, social skills training, development and monitoring of behavior reduction plans, competency-based training in ABA for teachers and school system staff, and classroom set-up and modifications to maximize learning. 2) Working with Families: ABA intervention programs for children with Autism Spectrum Disorders, helping parents maximize their child’s learning at home by evaluating the home environment and home schedule, academic tutoring, development of behavior plans to reduce maladaptive behaviors at home, potty training programs, and training for immediate family members, extended family members, church staff, babysitters, etc.... on Autism Spectrum Disorders, ABA or other related topics. • Storybook Farms- 300 Cusseta Road, Opelika, AL. 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 Blind- Serving Lee County and the surrounding area. www.aidb.org 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. Helen 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 East Alabama Mental Health Centerwww.eastalabamamhc.com; Family and Children’s Services-2300 Center Hills Dr., Building II; Opelika, AL. 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 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 Exceptional Outreach Organization (E.O.O.)- Organized in 2000, the Exceptional Outreach Organization is a nonprofit 501 (c) 3 organization whose mission is to provide programs for exceptional individuals with special needs by fostering growth through recreation, education, and social activities. Comprised of a volunteer Board of Directors with zero administrative costs, E.O.O. works to raise funds and awareness to sponsor and support Special Olympics of Lee County, the City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Therapeutic Summer Camp, Best Buddies of Auburn University, Premier Athletics Shining Knights Therapeutic Cheerleading Team, and other therapeutic related programs. E.O.O. hosts the annual Love Your Heart Run and Crank Your Heart Ride as its sole fundraising event. 2015 marks the 26th Annual Love Your Heart Run and 8th Annual Crank Your Heart Ride, which will take place at Chewacla State Park. www.loveyourheartrun.com.

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• 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 every Sunday morning. 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 (ad on page 13 and 23)

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 and safe 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 the Lee County and State of Alabama Special Olympics programs and the Auburn University chapter of Best Buddies. If you are interested in finding out more information regarding our Therapeutics Program, please contact Dana Stewart or Alison Hall at 501-2930. Fall Activities Include: Monday-Bowling, Auburn Lanes. 1:00-3:00pm. Monday-Unified Softball, 5:00-6:00pm Tuesday-Play Group, ages 6-12yrs, 3-5pm, Dean Rd Rec Center. Tuesday Special Olympics Track and Field Practice, AHS Track. 5:30-6:30pm. Wednesday-Fitness & Bingo, ages 6-12yrs. 3-5pm. Dean Rd Rec Center. Wednesday- Fitness & Bingo for Teens/Adults, ages 12 and up. 5:30-7:15pm. Dean Rd Rec Center. Friday- Game Night, Sept 18, Oct 16, Nov 20. Dean Rd Rec Center. 5:30-7:30pm.

Friday-Special Olympics Basketball Practice, Frank Brown Rec Center. 4:30-5:30pm. Friday- Exploring Art, Sept 18, Oct 16, Nov 20. Dean Rd Rec Center. 3:30-4:30pm. Sunday-Special Olympics Volleyball Practice, Dean Rd Rec Center. 4:30-5:30pm. Sunday- Special Olympics Flag Football Practice, AHS Soccer Field. 3:30-4:30pm. Special Olympics 2015-16 Auburn Parks and Recreation supports Special Olympics by sponsoring teams for many of the Special Olympics events. Currently, we support athletes for basketball, bowling, golf, powerlifting, swimming, track and field, and volleyball events. Practices take place throughout the year with the help of local Special Olympics’ volunteer coaches. You must be at least 8 years of age and meet the requirements of the Alabama Special Olympics Guidelines in order to participate. We currently need Coaches for our Special Olympics Athletes… if you have the time and the interest to help coach these dynamic and fun-loving kids, please contact the Lee County Special Olympics Co-Directors or the State office today! www.auburnalabama.org/ specialolympics Therapeutic Summer Camp A seven week summer day camp designed for young adults with various special needs. The Summer Camp is a joint project created and sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation and the Exceptional Outreach Organization. The curriculum program includes life skills training such as handling money, team work, social skills, Zumba, swimming, and other physical recreation activities. The campers also participate in cultural experiences, such as attending a Montgomery Biscuits baseball game and the Wild Animal Safari, Pine Mountain, GA. 27th Annual Love Your Heart Run / 9th Annual Crank Your Heart Ride February 20, 2016. The annual Love Your Heart Run is sponsored by the Exceptional Outreach Organization and the City of Auburn Parks and Recreation department. The Love Your Heart Run is the premier fundraising event benefiting children and adults with special needs that participate in Special Olympics of Lee County, Best Buddies of Auburn

University and City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Therapeutic Summer Camp. • Opelika Parks and Recreation Awesome Goals Soccer-The program will focus on learning soccer skills in a safe and accepting atmosphere. Practice will be Sundays, 2:00-3:00pm. Lynette at awesomegoalssoccer@gmail.com Basketball- Practice and enjoy organized games. Beginning Sept 22, 1:00-3:00pm. Covington Center, 705-5550. Christmas Ball- December 4, 6:00-8:00pm. 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. Offering art, music and dance classes to youth and young adults. Begins September 14, from 5:307:00pm. John Huling, JHuling@opelika.net Special Olympics Swim Team- Participants must be 8 years of age or older and have an intellectual disability. Wednesday 4:15-5:15pm, November-May. John Huling, 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 alongside the other baseball fields and the playground area at West Ridge Park. The playground includes slides, tunnels, a sandbox and swings all completely accessible for the disabled. The baseball field includes a dugout, a handicap-accessible announcers’ box, as well as picnic tables and a pavilion. www.miraclefield.org

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RECREATION CAMPS Easter Seals Camp ASSCA (ad on page 20)

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 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. • Camp Frog- The Autism Society of Alabama. Camp ASCCA, Jackson’s Gap. Ages 6-18 years and their families. Scholarships available. www.autismalabama.org • Camp Newhope & Camp Newsong205-877-2224; 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. 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 Harris205-402-0415; www.southeasterndiabetes.org Provides 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. • 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 • ADA Center- Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services- 334-613-3471 (Montgomery office); 205-290-4540 (Birmingham office); (800) 205-9986. www.rehab.state.al.us/ada DBTAC - Southeast ADA Center; 1419 Mayson Street, Atlanta, GA. 800-949-4232; www.sedbtac. org Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

• 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 Services-Montgomery, 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. 334-2428114; www.alsde.edu • Developmental Disabilities -Alabama Department of Mental Health-Montgomery, AL. 334-242-3107; www.mh.alabama.gov/ • Developmental Disabilities Council-Alabama Council for Developmental Disabilities Montgomery, AL. 800-232-2158; www.acdd.org • Governor’s Office on DisabilitiesMontgomery, AL. 334-353-0353 or 888-879-3582. • Mental Health Rep. for Children/YouthOffice of Children’s Services/ Alabama Department of Mental Health-Montgomery, AL. 334-353-7110; www.mh.alabama.gov • Protection and Advocacy- Alabama Disabilities 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 Network-Anniston, AL. 256-237-3683. www.alabamarespite.org Birmingham, AL. 205-991-0927; 1-866-RESTALA. • Special Education Services-Alabama Department of Education- Montgomery, AL. 800-392-8020; www.alsde.edu/ • Special Format Library- Alabama Regional Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped. 6030 Monticello Drive , Montgomery, AL. 800-3925671; www.statelibrary.alabama.gov • Special Health Care Needs- Alabama Department of Rehabilitation Services/Children’s Rehabilitation Service- Montgomery , AL. 800-441-7607; www.rehab.alabama.gov/crs • Technology- STAR (Statewide Technology Access and Response for Alabamians with Disabilities)-Montgomery, AL. 800-782-7656; www.rehab.alabama.gov/star • The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association- is committed to ensuring that all people with speech, language, and hearing disor-

ders receive services to help them communicate effectively. www.asha.org/public

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• University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities- Civitan International Research Center-University of Alabama at Birmingham; Birmingham, AL. 800-822-2472; www.circ.uab.edu

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• 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/

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; www.chadd.org • Attention Deficit Disorder Association (ADDA)- 800-939-1019; info@add.org; www.add.org • Autism- Autism Society of Alabama4217 Dolly Ridge Road; Birmingham, AL. 877-4-AUTISM; 205-951-1364; contact@autismalabama.org; www.autism-alabama.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 AlabamaMobile, AL. 800-626-1582; www.epilepsyfoundation.org/ • Food Allergies- The Food Allergy & Anaphylaxis Network- www.foodallergy.org • Head Injury-Alabama Head Injury Foundation- Hoover, 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 • Mental Health- NAMI Alabama-Montgomery, AL. 800-626-4199; www.namialabama.org • Speech and Hearing- Speech and Hearing Association of Alabama; 256-325-8885; Info@ AlabamaSHAA.org www.alabamashaa.org

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• Spina Bifida- Spina Bifida Association of Alabama- Madison, AL. 256-325-8600; www.sbaofal.org • Tourette Syndrome- Tourette Syndrome Association Mid-South Regional Office-Auburn, AL. 334-502-0055. • United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile, Inc.Mobile, AL. 888-630-7102; info@ucpmobile.org; www.ucp.org/ucp_local.cfm/160

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ORGANIZATIONS FOR PARENTS • Exceptional Parent Magazine- Publishes monthly magazine for parents of children with disabilities and professionals providing services to children and families. www.eparent.com • Family Voices of Alabama- Encourages 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 • FighterMom™-is a program for any mom 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 • 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 of AlabamaMontgomery, AL. 800-846-3735; http://acdd.org • The Epilepsy Foundation Parents Websitewww.epilepsyandmychild.org/ • The Sibling Support Project- a national effort 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

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1. Know Yourself. Overestimating your abilities will

In my adult life, nothing has sapped my self-confidence like motherhood. Just when I think I’ve got it figured out, the kids grow and change in a new direction. And watching other moms only makes matters worse. I spend my days sucking up cereal with a hand-held vacuum while Supermom posts to-diefor pictures on Pinterest. Of course, it is perfectly normal to feel insecure at times. But self-doubt can create a vicious, downward spiral. To lift yourself up, you’ve got to tap in to your inner core of confidence. Here’s

cause you to crash and burn like an American-Idol wannabe, says Lynn Kennedy Baxter, B.S.N., M.A., a licensed marriage and family therapist in Colorado Springs, Colo. And underestimating your abilities may cause you to pass up chances to stretch your skills. “Get reality checks from people you trust to give you good, honest feedback,” says Baxter. You may be holding yourself back.

2. Get Passionate. Fuel your confidence by investing in your own interests. Take dance classes, start a blog, or finish your college degree. “When we’re passionate about something – about anything – we become more attractive to others, and more importantly, we become more attractive to ourselves,” says certified life coach and inspirista Jennifer Tuma-Young of Edison, NJ. Do what lights your fire. 3. Stop Comparing. “If you feel like your life is a seesaw, perhaps you’re depending on other people for your ups and downs,” says communication consultant Sam Horn, author of What’s Holding You Back? 30 Days to Having the Courage and Confidence to Do What You Want, Meet Whom You Want, and Go Where You Want. Comparing yourself to others generates feelings of inferiority or superiority, neither of which is helpful. Be accountable to your own wishes and values.

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4. Banish Limiting Language. Telling yourself “I can’t,” “I’ll never,” or “I always,” reinforces your flaws and shortcomings, says Baxter, and can create a self-fulfilling prophecy. “Either accept your inadequacies, or choose to develop the trait or skill you’d like to have.” Ask yourself, “What words of encouragement would I offer a friend in the same situation?” then say them to yourself. Optimistic self-talk inspires confidence.

5. Rest Up. “Research clearly demonstrates that even a few days of too-little sleep causes a part of the brain called the amygdala to go into overdrive with fear and anxiety,” says Baxter. Instead of responding to stress with worry and panicked preparation, take a warm bath then get to bed. You’ll be ready to move mountains in the morning. 6. Affirm Your Attributes. List your top ten qualities. “They can be serious – like ‘I’m a great listener’ – or

silly, like ‘I always call people back,’ ‘I read with my kids every night,’ or ‘My cookies sell out first at the bake sale,” says Tuma-Young. Celebrating your own unique, special skills makes you feel fabulous.

7. Coach Yourself. There will be times when you don’t live up to your own expectations, like when you scream at your 4-year-old for washing the dog with pricey salon shampoo. “The key to a more productive approach lies in these two little words: next time,” says Horn. Focusing on how you’ll act differently in the future frees you from shame and self-blame.

8. Speak Up. When you’re unhappy, you have three options: you can whine, you can wait, or you can take responsibility, says Horn. Be proactive rather than passive. Tell the PTA president “No” if you don’t want to be in charge of the silent auction this spring. Staying true to yourself minimizes feelings of burnout and resentment.

9. Make a Difference. Giving to others increases feelings of competence and connectedness. TumaYoung volunteers with Enchanted Makeovers, a non-profit organization that offers inside-out makeovers to women and children living in shelters. “It’s not about giving to the needy,” says Tuma-Young. “We’re all needy. When we help each other, we heal our own lives.”

10. Be Positive. It may seem like other people have easier lives, but that’s just an illusion. Pay attention to small victories, like making a homecooked meal that everyone in the family will eat. Celebrate improvement rather than focusing on perfection. And give yourself permission to feel disappointed when setbacks happen. Just don’t let them stop you from starting again. And again. AOP

Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist and mother of two. She is the author of Detachment Parenting.

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Family Calendar Ongoing:

A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an all-inclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-7281162 or email: momofpnk@gmail.com. Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-705-8877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com. Alabama Shakespeare Festival Alabama Shakespeare Festival. www.asf.net. Birmingham Civil Rights Institute • The Roma-Photographs by Karen Graffeo. Through Sept. 13. • American Boricua: Puerto Rican Life in the United States. Sept. 28 - Jan. 10, 2016. www.bcri.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. Callaway Gardens Free Admission www.callawaygardens.com. Center for Puppetry Arts www.atlanta.net. Chick-fil-A Family Night at Tigertown Every Thursday night. Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre. www.atlantaballet.com. Columbus Museum Poetry of Earth Exhibit. Through Oct. 11. www.columbusmuseum.com. Cullman Fair Cullman County Fair Parade. Sept. 1 - 30. www.cullmanfair.com Cultural Arts The Art of Andy Warhol & Pop Art Studio Gadsden. Aug. 15 - Nov. 15. www.culturalarts.org. DeSoto Caverns Park www.DeSotoCavernsPark.com. Discovery Hikes Explore the preserve and learn something new each month about plants, wildlife and nature with a trained naturalist who will offer your family fun opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and exercise! Discovery Hikes are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. For families with children ages 5 to 12. Free admission. Donations welcomed. Cancelled in the event of rain. Forest Ecology Preserve & Nature Center is located at 2222 N. College Street, Auburn, and is just north of the AU Fisheries complex. East Alabama Birth Village 3rd Monday of each month. Monarch Estates, Auburn. 6 p.m. www.birthvillageclass.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. Georgia Aquarium Imagination Nights at the Georgia Aquarium. Through August 1. www.georgiaaquarium.org. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts Dinosaurs Alive! Through Aug. 3. Hardin Center for Cultural Arts, Gadsden. www.culturalarts.org Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center • The New Mel Brooks Musical “Young Frankenstein”. Aug. 21 - 30. • The September Show: An Invitational Exhibition Sept. 1 - 30. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Auburn. www. auburnalabama.org/parks. Josephine Art Center Josephine Art Center Celebration. Sept. 5 - 26. Union Springs. www.artatjosephine.com.

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

August/September 2015

Jule Collins Smith Museum • Auburn Collects. Through Sept. 6. • Along the Eastern Road: Hiroshige’s Fifty-Three Stations of the Tokaido. Sept. 26 - Jan. 10, 2016. Jule Collins Smith Museum, Auburn. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Kids Clothes Connection Fall Sale at Kids Clothes Connection. Sept. 12-26. 1625 East University Dr., Auburn. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Lee County Department of Human Resources Now recruiting foster/adoptive families. To learn more about fostering and adoption please call our office at 334-737-1100. Please join us in this endeavor to help our foster children. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that are waiting to adopt are welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net for more information. McWane Science Center McWane Science Center, B’ham. www.mcwane.org. Meditation Garden and Labyrinth Come and Find the Quiet Center... in the Meditation Garden and Labyrinth, provided as a community service by Village Christian Church, 700 East University Drive, (across from Auburn Early Ed.). 334-887-5111. Try the practice of walking meditation or simply sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. The garden and labyrinth are always open and guests are always welcome. Miracle League Now recruiting for volunteer/buddies to help in this year’s season. To volunteer or for more information, www.miraclefield.org or eamiracleleague@gmail.com. Newnan Theatre “The Wizard of Oz.” Sept. 3- 13. Newnan Theatre, 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. Pioneer Museum Pioneer Museum, Troy. www.pioneer-museum.org. “Reflections of Generosity: Reflection of the Soul” Aug. 24 - Sept. 29. Samford University. www.samford.edu/arts. Riverside Theatre Riverside Theatre, Columbus State. www.theatre.columbusstate.edu/productions Springer Opera House Columbus, GA. www.springeroperahouse.org. Telfair Peet Theatre “Playhouse Creatures.” Sept. 24 - Oct. 4. Telfair Peet Theatre, AU Campus. www.cia.auburn.edu/theatre. (334) 844-4748. Virginia Samford Theatre Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham. www.virginiasamfordtheatre.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/. Auburn Mommy and Me Big Dog Running Co, Auburn. 10–11 a.m. Social time, story time, music/movement, arts & crafts. Ages 9 months–3 years. Free! 334-209-2580. Auburn MOPS 1st Wednesday of each month, September-May. 9–11:30 a.m. Trinity United Methodist Church, Opelika. Meetings open to moms with preschool children ages 5 years and under. $5 per meeting; childcare $5 per child. $25 yearly membership dues. Weekly playdates, monthly moms night out, resources, and more. www.facebook.com/ AuburnOpelikaMOPS; AUMOPS@yahoo.com.

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

Mom’s Morning Out

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

Support Groups

Caregiver Support Group Caring for a family member or friends can be rewarding, but it’s not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your parents, spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn ways to cope with every day stresses of caring for someone you love. Gain tools and resources to help you on your journey. This program is supported by the Opelika Sportsplex, Lee-Russell Agency on Aging and HomeInstead Senior Care. This group is open to the public. Meets the last Monday of each month at 12:30 p.m. at Opelika Sportsplex AAC. Instructors are: Valeri White (Sportsplex), Bridgette Sager (Home Instead Senior Care), Lisa Askew (Lee-Russell Council of Gov). Food Allergy Support of East Alabama The Food Allergy Support of East Alabama group offers support through the sharing of information and resources. We are also working to increase awareness of food allergies in the state of Alabama. For more information, visit our website at www. foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334826-3082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net.

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

Sports

Auburn Football September 5, Georgia Dome. Sept. 10, 24. Auburn Volleyball August 28, 29, September 1, 4, 25, 30. Auburn Soccer Sept. 4, 6, 13, 25, 30. Auburn Equestrian Sept. 11. Montgomery Biscuits Baseball August 23-27, Sept. 3-11.

Monday, August 24

Receiving day for Kids Clothes Connection 1625 East University Dr., Auburn. 10am-6pm. www. kidsclothesconnection.com JCSM Membership Drive Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Preschool Storytime with Mr. Tim Cooper Public Library, Opelika. 10 a.m. www.cooperlibrary.com.

Tuesday, August 25

Receiving day for Kids Clothes Connection 1625 East University Dr., Auburn. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Opelika Mainstreet Farmers Market Courthouse Square. 3-6 p.m. www.opelikamainstreet.org. JCSM Membership Drive Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Wednesday, August 26 Receiving day for Kids Clothes Connection 1625 East University Dr., Auburn. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Women’s Equality Day Program Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site. www.nps.gov/tuai. A Little Art Talk Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 12 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. JCSM Membership Drive Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Thursday, August 27 The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus. 3-6 p.m. www.agriculture.auburn.edu. JCSM Membership Drive Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Public Ice Skating Columbus Ice Rink. 4-9 p.m. www.columbusicerink.org.

Friday, August 28 Rick & Bubba Outdoor Expo BJCC, Birmingham. www.bjcc.org. 17th Annual Sidewalk Film Festival Birmingham. www.sidewalkfest.com.

August/September 2015

Football, Fans, and Feathers Southeastern Raptor Center, Auburn. 4 ppm. www.vetmed.auburn.edu/raptor. JCSM Membership Drive Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Movies On the Beach: “Guardians of the Galaxy” Callaway Gardens. 9 p.m. www.callawaygardens.com. 4th Annual Run for Wishes College Colors 5K Benefiting Make a Wish Georgia. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. Public Ice Skating Columbus Ice Rink. 4-9 p.m. www.columbusicerink.org. End of Summer Luau Samford Pool, Auburn. 6-8 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/ parks. USA Wake Surf National Championship www.callawaygardens.com.

Saturday, August 29

12 Hours of Nite Nationals Chewacla State Park, Auburn. Rick & Bubba Outdoor Expo BJCC, Birmingham. www.bjcc.org. ESI Holistic Fair and Holistic Intensive Davis Arboretum, Auburn. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. 212-232-7680. 17th Annual Sidewalk Film Festival Birmingham. www.sidewalkfest.com. 4th Annual “Put A Bird On It” Montevallo Artwalk. www.montevallowarkwalk.com. MainStreet Alexander City Farmer’s Market 7-11 a.m. www.mainstreetac.org. Free Guided Tour The Museum of Alabama, Montgomery. 1-2 p.m. www.museum.alabama.gov. Restore’s Saturday Flea Market 3931 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika. 7 a.m. pattymurf54@charter.net. Young Eagles Day–FREE Airplane Rides for Kids! Columbus Airport. Ages 8-17. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-324-2453. Summer Sunset Music Series: Neal Lucas Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com. Market Days on Broadway Uptown Columbus. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. Public Ice Skating Columbus Ice Rink. 4-9 p.m. www.columbusicerink.org. Rick & Bubba Outdoor Expo BJCC. www.bjcc.org. USA Wake Surf National Championship www.callawaygardens.com. Pillowcase Project McWane Science Center, Bham. www.mcwane.org.

Sunday, August 30

Motley Crue: The Final Tour “All Bad Things Must Come To an End” Philips Arena, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Rick & Bubba Outdoor Expo BJCC, Birmingham. www.bjcc.org. 17th Annual Sidewalk Film Festival Birmingham. www.sidewalkfest.com. Spanish Language Film Series Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 2 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. USA Wake Surf National Championship www.callawaygardens.com. Couch to 5K Challenge presented by Sole2Soul Sisters Auburn High School Track. 4 p.m. www.sole2soulsisters.com.

Monday, August 31 Public Ice Skating Columbus Ice Rink. 4-9 p.m. www.columbusicerink.org. Preschool Storytime with Mr. Tim Cooper Public Library, Opelika. 10 a.m. www.cooperlibrary.com.

Tuesday, September 1

Home School Science and History Day Oxbow Meadows. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Parenting with Purpose: Understanding ADHD and Autism Diagnosis Pastoral Institute, Columbus. 706-649-6500 ext. 1361. Gamer’s Society Auburn Public Library. 4 p.m. Ages 10-18. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Wednesday, September 2 A Little Art Talk Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 12 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Big Top Out the Box Circus Cobb Performing Arts Centre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Puppet Show “Coyote and the Wet Blanket” Auburn Public Library. 3:30 p.m. Ages 3-7 years. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Thursday, September 3

World’s Largest Peanut Boil Luverne. www.peanutboilfestival.com. Big Top Out the Box Circus Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Lady Antebellum: Wheels Up 2015 Tour with Hunter Hays and Sam Hunt Oak Mountain Amp. www.ticketmaster.com. A Little Lunch Music Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 12 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Gallery Talk: Flora & Fauna Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 5 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Jazz! Food! Art! Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 5 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Big Top Out the Box Circus Cobb Performing Arts Centre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com.

Friday, September 4

Beans and Bellies: A Belly Dance Showcase Coffee Cat, Auburn. 6 p.m. vptfdance@gmail.com. World’s Largest Peanut Boil Luverne. www.peanutboilfestival.com. Big Top Out the Box Circus Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Annual Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival www.callawaygardens.com. AOHA Horse Show Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. “Fancy Nancy: The Musical” Family Theatre. First Fridays: Shop Local, Eat Local Downtown Opelika. Extended hours until 8 p.m. www.opelikamainstreet.org. First Fridays ‘Satin Soul’. Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m. www.eventcenterdowntown.com. Keith Sweat RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. 8 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. First Friday Artwalk Uptown Columbus. 4:30 - 10 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com.

Saturday, September 5

World’s Largest Peanut Boil Luverne. www.peanutboilfestival.com. First Capital Rediscovery Wagon Tour Orrville. www.cahawba.com. Big Top Out the Box Circus Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Jim Jefferies Buckhead Theatre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Annual Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival www.callawaygardens.com.

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Family Calendar AOHA Horse Show Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. “Fancy Nancy: The Musical” Family Theatre. Miles for Autism 5K and Fun Run Uptown Columbus. aberg@autismadventuretravel.com. Market Days on Broadway Columbus. 9 a.m. - 12 p.m. Art in the Park FDR State Park. 2-5 p.m. Pine Mountain, Ga. www.gastatepark.org/FDRoosevelt. Drive-In Movie On the Mountain: “Big Hero 6” FDR State Park. Pine Mountain, Ga. 8 p.m. www.gastatepark.org/FDRoosevelt. Dragon Con Night at the Aquarium Georgia Aquarium. www.georgiaaquarium.org. Annual Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival www.callawaygardens.com. Doc Serverinsen RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. Geocoaching Event Opelika Parks and Rec. www.opelika.org/opr.

Sunday, September 6

World’s Largest Peanut Boil Luverne. www.peanutboilfestival.com. “Fancy Nancy: The Musical” Family Theatre. Sweet Tater Festival Cullman. www.sweettaterfestival.com. Big Top Out the Box Circus Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Annual Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival www.callawaygardens.com. AOHA Horse Show Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. Spanish Language Film Series Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 2 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Lake Martin Labor Day Concert The Amp. www.lakemartin.com.

Monday, September 7

World’s Largest Peanut Boil Luverne. www.peanutboilfestival.com. Ider Mule Days www.discoverlookoutmountain.com. Sweet Tater Festival Cullman. www.sweettaterfestival.com. Seale Labor Day Fair Old Russell County Courthouse. 10 a.m. 706-573-0620. You Build It: Labor Day McWane Science Center, Bham. 6-8 p.m. www.mcwane.org. Preschool Storytime with Mr. Tim Cooper Public Library, Opelika. 10 a.m. www.cooperlibrary.com.

Tuesday, September 8

Parenting with Purpose: Understanding ADHD and Autism Diagnosis Pastoral Institute, Columbus. 706-649-6500 ext. 1361. Discovery Hike ‘Wildflowers’ Kreher Perserve & Nature Center. www.auburn.edu/preserve. LitWits Auburn Public Library. 4:30 p.m. Ages 13-18 years. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Wednesday, September 9

LBWCC- Camellia City Classic Golf Tournament Greenville. www.lbwcc.edu. A Little Art Talk Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 12 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. An Evening with Zach Deputy The Sanctuary, Montgomery. www.visitingmontgomery.com. PSAT Prep Class Auburn Public Library. Ages 13-18 years. 5:30 p.m. 334-501-3196.

Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

August/September 2015

Fractured Fairytales “Snow White and the 77 Dwarfs” Auburn Public Library. 3:30 p.m. Ages 4-7 years. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Thursday, September 10

5th Annual Brad Powe Memorial Wild Hog Rodeo Camden. A Little Lunch Music Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 12 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Jazz! Food! Art! Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 5 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Southern Circuit Tour of Independent Filmmakers Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 5 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Nature Walk ‘Wildflowers’ Kreher Perserve & Nature Center. www.auburn.edu/preserve. R.A.D. – Basic Physical Defense Program for Women 5:30 p.m. dstewart@auburnalabama.org. Broadway Under the Stars Montgomery Symphony Orchestra, Alabama Shakespeare Festival. www.visitingmontgomery.com.

Friday, September 11

Football, Fans & Feathers Southeastern Raptor Center, Auburn. 4 p.m. www.auburntigers.com/gamedayevents. Jordan-Hare Stadium Locker Room Tours Gate 10, Auburn Stadium. 4-6 p.m. www.auburntigers.com/ gamedayevents. Auburn University Campus Walking Tour 4 p.m. Begin at Auburn Alumni Center. www.auburntigers. com/gamedayevents. Friday Football Luncheon Letterman’s Lounge at Jordan-Hare Stadium. 11:30 a.m. www.auburntigers.com/gamedayevents. 5th Annual Brad Powe Memorial Wild Hog Rodeo Camden. Foothills Festival Jasper. www.foothillsjasper.com. Red Bay Founders Fest www.cityofredbay.org. NBHA Barrel Racing Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. AUsome Amphibians & Reptiles Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, Auburn. www.auburn.edu/preserve.

Saturday, September 12

3rd Annual Tri-City Latino Festival Columbus Civic Center. 9 a.m. www.columbusciviccenter.org. Alabama Forge Council Fall Conference Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park. www.alaforge.org. 5th Annual Brad Powe Memorial Wild Hog Rodeo Camden. Foothills Festival Jasper. www.foothillsjasper.com. Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Second Saturday Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m. - 12 noon. 706-748-2562. Junior League of Columbus Character Breakfast St. Luke Ministry Center, Columbus. 8:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. www.JLColumbus.com. Garden Party at Oxbow Meadows: Welcoming Bees, Butterflies and Birds Oxbow Meadows, 10 a.m. Expectant Mommy Expo 2015 Phenix City. 2 - 4 p.m. www.preferredmedgroup.com/phenix-city-childrens. NBHA Barrel Racing Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. Second Saturday Riverfront Park, Montgomery. www.funinmontgomery.com. Second Saturday Lee County Historical Society Museum. Loachapoka. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org. Craft Beer Festival Callaway Gardens. 2-5 p.m. www.callawaygardens.com. The Uptown Drum Circle Columbus. 6-9 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com.

Craft Beer Fest Callaway Gardens. www.callawaygardens.com. AU Football vs Jacksonville State 11 a.m. www.auburn.edu. Legomania Auburn Public Library. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Sunday, September 13

Alabama Forge Council Fall Conference Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park. www.alaforge.org. NBHA Barrel Racing Garrett Coliseum, Montgomery. Sunday Poetry Soiree Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 2 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Monday, September 14

Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Auditions: AACT Fall Show Auditions - “The Love Cycle” Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. 334-502-9326. Preschool Storytime with Mr. Tim Cooper Public Library, Opelika. 10 a.m. www.cooperlibrary.com.

Tuesday, September 15

Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Parenting with Purpose: Understanding ADHD and Autism Diagnosis Pastoral Institute, Columbus. 706-649-6500 ext. 1361. Auditions: AACT Fall Show Auditions “The Love Cycle” Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. 334-502-9326. “The Little Red Hen” Birmingham Children’s Theatre. www.bct123.org. Baby Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Lego Club Auburn Public Library. 3 p.m. Ages 4-12 years. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Wednesday, September 16 Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. A Little Art Talk Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 12 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. PSAT Prep Class Auburn Public Library. Ages 13-18 years. 5:30 p.m. 334-5013196. Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Thursday, September 17

Constitution Day 2015 American Village, Montevallo. www.americanvillage.org. Taste of the South Atmore. Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. A Little Lunch Music Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 12 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Jazz! Food! Art! Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 5 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Third Thursday Poetry Series Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 7 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Celebration of Hope Columbus Convention and Trade Center. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. R.A.D. – Basic Physical Defense Program for Women

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Family Calendar

August/September 2015

5:30 p.m. dstewart@auburnalabama.org. Pizza Pizzazz Covington Center, Opelika. Ages 6-11. Fee $15. 3:30 p.m. www.opelika.org/opr. Zoobilation: A Splash of Blue The Montgomery Zoo. www.montgomeryzoo.com. Burger Bash 2015 Eat South Downtown Farm, Montgomery. 6 p.m. www.visitingmontgomery.com. Preschool Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Gamer’s Society Auburn Public Library. 4 p.m. Ages 10-18. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Ariana Grande BJCC, B’ham. www.ticketmaster.com. Fall K-12 Kid’s Art Club Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Friday, September 18

Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Parenting with Purpose: Understanding ADHD and Autism Diagnosis Pastoral Institute, Columbus. 706-649-6500 ext. 1361. Baby Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library. LitWits Auburn Public Library. 4:30 p.m. Ages 13-18 years. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

“Raisin’ Cane: A Harlem Renaissance Odyssey” staring Jasmine Guy Samford University. www.tickets.samford.edu. Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Kristin Chenoweth Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Gun Show and Knife Show Multiplex at Cramton Bowl, Montgomery. The Big To Do Concert Series ‘Grapevine’ Columbus. 7-10 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. 10th Annual Breakfast for Babies Perry Hill Road, Chappy’s Deli, Montgomery. www.chappysdeli.com.

Saturday, September 19

5th Annual Marie W. Wooten Memorial Run Davis Arboretum, Auburn. 7:45 a.m. www.runsignup.com. Friends of the Auburn Public Library Fall Book Sale Dean Rd Rec. 8 a.m. 14th Annual John Benge Commemorative Motorcycle Ride www.discoverlookoutmountain.com. Boom Days Heritage Celebration Fort Payne. www.discoverlookoutmountain.com. Wing Street Cullman. www.cullmanrecreation.org. Wiregrass Model Railroad Show and Sale National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, Dothan. Facebook. Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Gun Show and Knife Show Multiplex at Cramton Bowl, Montgomery. Live Healthy in Uptown Day Columbus. 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. Run for the Valley 5K/10K Columbus. 8 a.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. Transportation Playground Columbus. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. Fall Family Fun Day Kerher Preserve & Nature Center. Auburn. www.auburn.edu/preserve. Legomania Auburn Public Library. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Sunday, September 20

Vulcan After Tunes Concert Series ‘Langhorne Slim and the Law’ Birmingham. www.visitvulcan.com. Wiregrass Model Railroad Show and Sale National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, Dothan. Facebook. Ariana Grande BJCC. www.ticketmaster.com. Gun Show and Knife Show Multiplex at Cramton Bowl, Montgomery. K-12 Art Clubs Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 1:30 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu|. Spanish Language Film Series Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 2 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Monday, September 21

Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Preschool Storytime with Mr. Tim Cooper Public Library, Opelika. 10 a.m. www.cooperlibrary.com.

Tuesday, September 22

Friday Football Luncheon Letterman’s Lounge at Jordan-Hare Stadium. 11:30 a.m. www.auburntigers.com/gamedayevents. 10th Annual ‘My Favorite Poem’ Evening Alabama School of Fine Arts, Birmingham. www.birminghamartsjournal.com. Cullman County Fair www.cullmanfair.com. 50% off: Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. “Swan Lake” Alabama Theatre. www.ticketmaster.com. “Good Boys and True” Riverside Theatre. Columbus. 7:30 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. The Big to Do Concert Series ‘Rock Candy’ Columbus. 7 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. 13th Annual Ida Cason Callaway Foundation Golf Tournament www.callawaygardens.com. Nick Jonas: Live in Concert The Tabernacle, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. “A Chorus Line” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org. AUsome Amphibians & Reptiles Kreher Perserve & Nature Center. www.auburn.edu/preserve. Ballet and the Beasts The Montgomery Zoo. Free. 6-10 p.m. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

Wednesday, September 23 Saturday, September 26 Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. A Little Art Talk Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 12 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Rhiannon Giddens Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. www.eastalabamaarts.org. PSAT Prep Class Auburn Public Library. Ages 13-18 years. 5:30 p.m. 334-5013196. Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Thursday, September 24

Cullman County Fair www.cullmanfair.com. 25% off: Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. A Little Lunch Music Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 12 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Jazz! Food! Art! Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 5 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Demonstration: Japanese Printmaking Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 5 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. The Screen on the Green Woodruff Park, Columbus. 6 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. “A Chorus Line” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org. R.A.D. – Basic Physical Defense Program for Women 5:30 p.m. dstewart@auburnalabama.org. Preschool Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Gamer’s Society Auburn Public Library. 4 p.m. Ages 10-18. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Friday, September 25

27th Annual Jubilee Festival Daphne, Al. www.eschamber.com. 4th Annual Delta Dash Bay Minette. www.deltadash.org. 27th Annual Taste of the Bayou Bayou La Batre Community Center. www.bayoulabatrechamber.com. Car Show at Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park Calera. www.tannehill.org. Titus Bluegrass Festival Facebook/Titus-Bluegrass-Festival. Weaver Heritage Day Arts and Craft Show www.weaveralalumni.weebly.com. Cullman County Fair www.cullmanfair.com. 18th Annual Echota Cherokee Tribe of Alabama Festival and Pow Wow Oakville Indian Mounds Education Center. www.echotacherokeetribe.homestead.com. Winfield Mule Day www.winfieldsmuleday.com. Flomaton Railroad Junction Day www.flomation.com. Johnny Ray Century Opelika. www.eastalabamacyclingclub.com/johnnyraycentury. 50% off: Kids Clothes Connection Sale Auburn. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. www.kidsclothesconnection.com. Hope for Autism Walk & Family Fun Day 2015 North Highland Church, Columbus. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. www.autismhopecenter.com. Oktoberfest Cruise Riverfront, Montgomery. (334) 625-2100. Exhibitions Open: “Along the Eastern Road,” and “Indelible” Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Young Eagles Day–FREE Airplane Rides for Kids! Columbus Airport. Ages 8-17. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-324-2453. “Good Boys and True” Riverside Theatre. Columbus. 7:30 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. 2015 Beer and Wine Fest Columbus. 1 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. Santa’s Castle 5K Woodruff Park, Columbus. 7 a.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. “A Chorus Line” Springer Opera House, Columbus. www.springeroperahouse.org. Fall Family Fun Days ‘Hats Off to Heroes’ The Rock Ranch, Ga. www.therockranch.com. Legomania Auburn Public Library. 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Family Calendar Sunday, September 27

27th Annual Jubilee Festival Daphne, Al. www.eschamber.com. Whistle Stop Festival Irondale. www.irondalewhistlestopfestival.com. Birmingham Originals Breakin Bread Sloss Furnaces. www.birminghamoriginals.org. Cullman County Fair www.cullmanfair.com. Winfield Mule Day www.winfieldsmuleday.com. Marc Anthony & Carlos Vives Philips Arena, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Spanish Language Film Series Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 2 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Jazz on the River Concert Series Woodruff Park, Columbus. 6 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com.

Monday, September 28

65th Annual Shelby County Alabama Fair Shelby County Exhibition Center. www.alshelbycountyfair.com. 59th Annual Central Alabama Fair www.centralalabamafair.com. Cullman County Fair www.cullmanfair.com. Preschool Storytime with Mr. Tim Cooper Public Library, Opelika. 10 a.m. www.cooperlibrary.com.

Tuesday, September 29

August/September 2015

George Ezra Buckhead Theatre. Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. The Floating World: Japanese Art Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 12:45 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. Baby Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Wednesday, September 30 65th Annual Shelby County Alabama Fair Shelby County Exhibition Center. www.alshelbycountyfair.com. 59th Annual Central Alabama Fair www.centralalabamafair.com. Cullman County Fair www.cullmanfair.com. A Little Art Talk Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts. 12 p.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu. “Good Boys and True” Riverside Theatre. Columbus. 7:30 p.m. www.uptowncolumbusga.com. Creepy Wonderful Critters ‘Spiders’ Kreher Perserve & Nature Center. www.auburn.edu/preserve. PSAT Prep Class Auburn Public Library. Ages 13-18 years. 5:30 p.m. 501-3196. Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

October

Oct. 1. Kids in the Kitchen Covington Rec Center. www.opelika.org/opr. Oct. 1. Preschool Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Oct. 2. Paint the Town Pink Uptown Columbus.

Oct. 2. 15th Annual Blue Jean Ball Crooked Oaks Hunting Lodge, Notasulga, Al. www.auburn.edu/nursing. Oct. 3. Fort Benning Flea Market & Post-Wide Yard Sale 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. Oct. 3-4. Alabama Gun Collector’s Association Gun Show BJCC. www.bjcc.org. Oct. 4. Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day Chewacla State Park. 2 p.m. Oct. 7-11. Disney On Ice Celebrates 100 Years of Magic Philips Arena, Atl. www.ticketmaster.com. Oct. 8. 4th Annual Artists On Tap Capital City Club, Montgomery. www.artistontapmgm.com. Oct. 8-11. Southern Women’s Expo BJCC. www.bjcc.org. Oct. 9. An Indian Summer Night Downtown Art Walk Auburn. 6 p.m. Oct. 13-18. Greater Columbus Fair Columbus Civic Center. www.columbusciviccenter.org. Oct. 15. Fall Treats Covington Rec Center. www.opelika.org/opr. Oct. 16. Sips Under the Sea - Halloween Georgia Aquarium. Oct. 17. 20th Annual Arts On the River 2015 Columbus. Oct. 22-25. Disney On Ice presents “Let’s Celebrate” BJCC. www.ticketmaster.com. Oct. 23. On the Tracks Downtown Opelika. 6 p.m. Oct. 27. Fall Festival Children’s Carnival Opelika SportsPlex. 5:30-8:30 p.m. www.opelika.org/opr. Oct. 29. 15th Annual Downtown Trick or Treat Auburn. 6-8 p.m. Oct. 30-31. “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” The Riverside Theatre, Columbus. Oct. 31. Spooktacular 2015 Woodruff Park, Columbus. 2-5 p.m.

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Call Auburn Opelika Parents at 334-209-0552. Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Save Money on Your Style:

Shop Vintage

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Vintage clothing is described as new or second hand garments originating from a different era of time. The phrase is also used in connection with a retail outlet, e.g. “vintage clothing store.” One reason I love vintage is because I can have a very unique yet affordable style. Now I’m not saying everything in your wardrobe needs to come from your favorite flea market/consignment store, but you can enjoy shopping for a few of these pre-loved treasures. Vintage items can cost anywhere from 50 cents to $12. I myself have found a few items to add to my style, and not only does it make it fun to shop, it’s also an amazing complement when you have people noticing what you have on. The best thing is that only you know that your outfit cost much less than what you would pay in a high end store. When you shop vintage here are a few tips to use.

Set a BudgetWhether you’re shopping in a used clothing store or looking online, you should try setting a budget before buying anything. Besides, that’s what the

point is anyway, saving money and finding a fun new style. The best part about setting a budget is that if you under spend you can save the money for your next shopping trip.

What are you looking forLook through current designer items and find something that you love now. Then you can look for that same designer’s previous seasons for a similar look at a fraction of the current cost. Chances are, they will have made something similar in the past, especially considering that many styles cycle back every three to five years.

Check with friends or familyEnjoy plundering through the closets of friends or family who might have the perfect vintage item for you. If they are still hanging around then its probably a good sign that the clothing/accessories are well taken care of.

Check the quality before buyingEven designer label vintage clothing won’t be valuable if it’s in poor condition. It is important to check for tears, strains and anywhere that the garment has been mended.

Know how to wear current-

in with your current style. This updates your vintage look a bit more.

AlterationsBe sure that the quality of clothing is durable enough to be altered if needed. You want your clothes to fit properly whether they are vintage or not.

Find a buddyThere is nothing wrong with bringing a friend along. It’s always a great idea to get opinions from your BFF’s. And rummaging through all those treasures might end up being a fun day for all involved.

Wash your clothesYes, be sure the clothing you purchase can be washed or dry-cleaned. There is a reason the clothes are called vintage. Just as you can find vintage pieces to compliment the current fashion trends, you can also use vintage to go against them. With vintage you find classics that have never gone out of style, or you can find off the wall pieces to set yourself apart from the mainstream. So enjoy shopping vintage! Have fun with the styles and set yourself apart from everyone else. You don’t have to spend a lot of money to look fabulous. Make your style a story to tell. Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern. com or visit her website at www. centsiblysouthern. com.

If you buy items of clothing that are vintage be aware of how to mix them 47

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Fantastic Four

Shaun the Sheep Movie

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: D+ Sexual Content: ALanguage: C Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Fantastic Four PG-13 for sci-fi action violence and language. Reed Richards (Owen Judge) and Ben Grimm (Evan Hannemann) are grade school chums who manage to build a device that can transport a small object to some unknown destination and then bring it back. At a high school science fair a few years later the miracle leaves their teachers unimpressed, however it does catch the attention of Dr. Franklin Storm (Reg Cathey), the director of a government sponsored research program for young prodigies. He is intrigued to discover these young men have figured out the missing piece for a stalled project his team has been working on. Certain he can convince the board to resume funding for the “Quantum Gate”, Storm offers Reed (Miles Teller) and Ben (Jamie Bell) a scholarship at the Baxter Foundation where they are invited to help complete the experiment. Although Ben declines, Reed enthusiastically accepts and is soon working with Storm’s scientist daughter Sue (Kate Mara) and lab technician son Johnny (Michael B. Jordan). The doctor also brings back an expelled student named Victor Von Doom (Tony Kebbell) because the rebellious young adult is the original brain behind the matter-moving machine. In short order the team pulls together to create a transporter big enough to send a life form to the mysterious destination. After a chimpanzee returns alive, the group is convinced the device is ready for human travel. And they want to be first to explore what they are sure is a new world in a different dimension. However, their success has been brought to the attention of the bureaucrats who now demand the project be turned over to NASA. Of course Reed, Johnny and Victor are not happy with that suggestion. After late night drinking, they make the impulsive decision to use the transporter without permission. Bringing Ben along, they head out on the adventure of a lifetime. It turns out getting there is easier than expected. Full of pride at their achievement, the gang can’t help but take a selfie. Nor can they resist the urge to do a little exploring of the new realm. Yet in their eagerness they make contact with a strange energy force so powerful that only three of them manage to make it back. Victor is left for dead. And upon their return, Sue is also exposed to the remains of the powerful surge. Like a box of assorted chocolates, the experience affects each person very individually, leaving them with a unique ability. The military is quick to look for ways to exploit these new capabilities until a new and more formidable foe emerges. The latter portion of the script is consumed with a showdown between this ultimate villain and the four fledgling super heroes. The resulting violence is quite graphic. This, along with periodic scatological slang and other profanities, constitute a few reasons why parents may want to be cautious.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: BSexual Content: B+ Language: A Alcohol / Drug Use: AThe MPAA has rated Shaun the Sheep Movie PG for rude humor. You can take the sheep off the farm and send them to town... but things are likely to get a little woolly. At least they do for Shaun the Sheep (voice of Justin Fletcher) and the rest of his flock. Like many people stuck on the treadmill of life, Shaun is a little tired of the daily farm routine. Sleep. Eat. Sleep. Repeat. He wants a day off -a day to kick back and turn on the telly. The only problem is Farmer Sparks (voice of John Sparkes) is a firm believer in maintaining a schedule. After enduring another to-do list day, Shaun decides to take things into his own cloven hooves. Lulling the farmer to sleep with the old counting sheep trick, he and the rest of the flock lock the man inside a travel trailer and take over the house. However just as they are about to settle down with a movie and pizza, the trailer begins to roll down the road and into The Big City with the snozer inside. Aardman Animations has made a name for itself with charming claymation films such as the dog and master duo Wallace & Gromit, and a coop full of escapees in Chicken Run. Now the studio is giving television star Shaun the Sheep a shot at the big screen. Twenty animators were hired to work on the project, each creating about two seconds of footage a day. While the film has the same look as their other productions, there is no dialogue other than some grunts, groans and animal sounds. The lack of narrative makes this film easy to follow as long as you keep your eyes on the screen. It also means the jokes in this film are all sight and sound gags. Droopy pants, exposed underwear, a man on a toilet and a few other slightly distasteful scenes are played for laughs, along with some burps and flatulence. While the plot includes moments of peril and violence, the scariest depiction for very young children will likely be the animal containment officer (voice of Omid Djalili) who uses a high-powered gun to capture his victims. Overall Shaun the Sheep is a less complicated and less entertaining movie that previous Aardman animations. Still, the lack of language may also mean it may have a broader appeal to audiences of all ages and cultures.

What Parents need to know about Shaun the Sheep...

What Parents need to know about Fantastic Four...

Violence: An animal bylaw officer snares his victims with a large clasp. Later he uses a taser-like weapon to stun his victims. He also chases animals with a large scythe. Characters experience numerous moments of peril. Sexual Content: A man’s droopy pants reveal part of his buttocks on several occasions. A man flirts with a woman. Some mild sexual innuendo is included. A character is photographed in the nude for a magazine spread (no actually nudity is shown). Language: None noted. Alcohol / Drug Use: A character mixes a drink and serves it in a martini glass. A character is given a bottle of wine. One character sips wine during dinner.

Violence: A child is verbally abused and slapped. Experiments result in explosions, property damage and power failures. An animal used in an experiment looks frightened, but is unharmed. Victims of an accident suffer from injuries and strange mutations. A body is shown engulfed in flames, but is not consumed by the fire. Characters are used as weapons to achieve military goals – some combat situations are shown. Characters are killed on screen -- splatted blood, gruesome burns and battered corpses shown. Characters engage in a battle using super powers; injuries and deaths ensue. A black hole sucks up people. Sexual Content: A naked character is shown; no private body parts revealed. Language: A sexual hand gesture is shown. The script includes the use of mild profanities, scatological slang, crude words and terms of deity. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters drink alcohol and become inebriated. Auburn Opelika Parents I September 2015

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Back to school, back to the dentist!

Visiting the dentist is just another important item on your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s back to school list. Oral health issues can cause dental pain, absences from school for kids and work for parents, and poor performance in the classroom. So, give your child the best shot at a bright smile and a bright future with a trip to the dentist this fall. Remember Medicaid covers dental care. To find a Medicaid dental provider visit www.adph.org/oralhealth and click â&#x20AC;&#x153;Find a dentist.â&#x20AC;?