Auburn-Opelika Parents "Afterschool Activities Issue" (August 24)

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Helping calm your child’s nervous system after traumatic times.

How multiple activities shape success.

Register now for fall activities!

Bryson McGlynn, son of Mike and Shannon McGlynn, is a 12-year-old culinary prodigy hailing from Opelika, AL. Bryson began competitively cooking throughout the country at age 8. He has numerous endorsements with amazing companies that help continue bringing his cooking dreams to reality. When not on the grill or in the kitchen, you’ll find Bryson hitting home runs, playing in percussion, cherishing family time and trying to spread his passion of cooking to both the older and younger generations.

Publisher’sNote

Did you blink? I sure did! Summer has breezed by, and I have found myself ordering back-to-school supplies, backpacks, and shoes for all my kids. It’s time to send them back into the classrooms for another year of learning, creating, and growing. Time to get back into a daily routine filled with morning hustles, school drop-offs and pick-ups, homework and projects, and bedtimes that will prepare them for another school day. It’s always an adjustment from the carefree summer days of sleeping in, hanging out with friends, and staying up late watching Instagram reels. It’s sad to say goodbye to another perfect summer, but also exciting to see what a new school year will have in store. I have two college kids headed back to their campuses, one as a senior and one as a sophomore. I also have another high schooler in the house, who is ready to take on 9th grade and a senior eager to graduate and move on to her next chapter. There are so many milestones to cross this school year; in some ways, it feels similar to those middle school years. How will they juggle all their advanced courses? Will there be student support resources to help throughout the year? What can I do that will encourage them along the way? These are some great places to start as we prepare our children for another school year.

In this month’s feature article, Banish The Back-To-School Blues: 10 Ways To Build Better Student-Teacher Relationships, the author points out some great ways to foster a successful year by supporting your student and their school. One suggestion is to be there and get involved. Go to the open houses and meet-the-teacher nights. Walk the school with your student so that they can get the lay of the land and be confident in finding their way around the buildings. Also, gladly offer the teacher your help and tell her you are available to support the learning process in any way you can. This not only creates a supportive relationship with your child as they step back into the classroom, but it also opens the lines of communication with their teachers. Another tip is to stay in it with them throughout the year and be aware of any needs or struggles that may arise. Intervene early so that student success can continue. If your child starts to struggle with math concepts, reach out to the teacher and ask about support/tutoring services that might benefit your student. Or, if you see a change in behavior or emotions, talk to your child, and if necessary, reach out for help. Various support services exist in our community that work closely with the school systems to help ensure a path toward success for each student.

As you make back-to-school plans and think about after-school care and extracurricular programs, start with our 2024 After-School Activities Guide. In it you will find classes and activities from scouts and karate to theater and music, and everything in between. If undecided, ask to try a class or two and see if trying a new sport or fine art is a great fit for this school year. Also, as a bonus, many after-school care facilities offer not only homework and tutoring help but also host lessons like ballet and martial arts onsite.

Back to the classroom can be a challenge for most parents and students, but the excitement of new learning and growing can overshadow the anxiety of starting a new year. Be a parent who encourages and supports your student and the teachers, too. Set a positive tone, and it can be contagious.

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

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

Contributing Writers

Kristi Bush, LSW

Christina Katz

Cheryl Maguire

Gabriele Jones Works of Wonder Therapy

Cover Photography

Matthan Brown Matthan Brown Photography www.matthanbrownphoto.com

President Jason Watson

Director of Sales

Justin Sumner (334) 209-0552

Ad Design

Tim Welch

Web Content Manager

Scott Davis

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 475 Bennington Ct, Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 329-8073 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2024 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.

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Repairing Traumatic Moments

Let’s just be honest, most of us experience the feeling of overwhelm more than we want to admit. There is simply too much stimulation in our world: too much to do, too much noise, too much to see, too many drivers on the road, too many people in Target, etc. Unless you move off the power grid, become self-sufficient, and live your life in isolation, you will consistently experience too much. Sadly, our consistent states of overwhelm are harming us more than we realize.

ments of overwhelm are stored in the body, which is why our brains are sometimes unable to recognize the difference between past and present. When this happens, our reactions do not appropriately match the situation.

In her book, Strong Like Water, counselor Aundi Kolber wrote, “Trauma is anything that overwhelms our nervous system’s capacity to cope. Trauma gets stuck in our bodies and must be processed.” Trauma is typically stored as a sensation that makes you uncomfortable when you are confronted with it. For example, the smell of chlorine may make you feel anxious if you witnessed a near drowning. Even if your brain does not recall the memory, your body does. The result of smelling chlorine is an anxious feeling. Mo-

We all function better when our nervous systems are not overwhelmed. Sadly, you cannot prevent these moments from happening to you or your children. They are simply part of the human experience. However, if you become more aware of how your stored traumas bring out the worst in you, you can proactively create an environment that limits damage to your children’s nervous systems.

Observe yourself. Do you have inappropriate reactions around specific circumstances, smells, locations, times of day, etc? What might be a past moment of overwhelm inhibiting you from handling the present appropriately? Once you identify it, physically work through it. For example, if loud noises bring out the worst in you,

sit and listen to annoying music when you are calm and be compassionate with yourself about how difficult this task is to do. When you can do so without being overly annoyed, your body has processed out that overwhelm.

Prioritize repairs. As parents, we all make mistakes. We raise our voices, when we should remain calm. We say things we regret. Our children do not need us to be perfect, but for them to become healthy adults, we must take the time to repair any fractures our mistakes make in our relationship before they become stored traumas in our children’s bodies. When we realize that we made a parenting mistake, we must take the time to repair our connec tion with our children. This process includes apologizing and taking responsibility, stating our intent to handle things differently, and ensuring that they feel loved, safe, and secure.

Stay active. We process out some overwhelm by simply moving our bodies. You must make sure that you and your children are physically active every day. A great thing to do is combine being active with the repair process. When you dance with your children, create fun obstacle courses, go for family walks, etc. your bodies release oxytocin. Oxytocin aides in the develop ment of healthy attachments by producing feelings of trust and security.

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

Serving the mental health, substance use, and developmental disability needs of individuals in East Alabama with accessible, high-quality care.

Integrea Community Mental Health System serves Lee, Russell, Chambers, and Tallapoosa counties offering a full range of clinical, therapeutic, psychiatric, crisis, residential, and community-based support services.

Mental Illness: Comprehensive treatment and support

Substance Use Disorders: Specialized programs for recovery and rehabilitation

Family & Children's Services: Holistic care for families and children

Developmental Disabilities: Personalized services for adult individuals with developmental challenges

Prevention Services: Community-based programs centered on substance use prevention

NALOXONE TRAINING

Narcan is a life-saving medication that can reverse an overdose from opioids including heroin and fentanyl. FREE Narcan kit upon completion of training! Prevention@integreamh.org

Gabby Barrett in Concert: August 10

Warner Music Nashville’s Multi-Platinum star continues to prove herself to be an unstoppable force in Country Music. Surpassing 3 billion global career streams, the powerhouse vocalist delivers her most autobiographical work to date with sophomore album, Chapter & Verse. The Amp features local and regional food vendors providing menus, including vegetarian and healthy options. Drink vendors include beer, wine, sodas, water and more for purchase. Sweetland Amp, 110 Smith St. LaGrange, Ga. 8pm. www.sweetlandamp.com/concerts/gabby-barrett/

Family Discovery Hike: Wildflowers

2024 Labor Day Weekend Hot Air Balloon Show & Glow

We are lighting up your Labor Day Weekend at Callaway Resort & Gardens with the Hot Air Balloon Show & Glow, August 30-September 3! Play all day with garden and beach access, waterfront activities like putt-putt, and endless entertainment, including the exciting Birds of Prey show. Spend sun-kissed days splashing in the waters of Robin Lake Beach and racing across the inflatable mountains of the floating obstacle course Aqua Island. Stay after sundown to watch the beach transform with the light of gigantic Hot Air Balloons glowing under firework-filled skies. www.callawaygardens.com/

Join our guides, August 13, 3:304:3pm, for an educational adventure as you and your children take in the many sights and sounds of the Nature Center. Guided Discovery Hikes and Nature Walks are offered the second Tuesday and Thursday of each month and are free to the public! Each month features a different topic chosen from a variety of seasonal themes. This is a great way to safely explore the outdoors while learning about the plants, wildlife, and ecology of our area. Hikes are for families with children ages 5 to 12. Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn. http://kpnc.auburn.edu/programs/guidedtours/

Itty Bitty Auburn: August 1-31

It’s time to break out the thinking caps and magnifying glasses for Itty Bitty Auburn Scavenger Hunt. Beginning Thursday, August 1st, participants can pick up a worksheet for the scavenger hunt at any Parks and Recreation facility or find it on the City of Auburn website, and on Facebook. The worksheet features 20 itty-bitty sites in various locations around Auburn. Participants will need to go to these sites and find a clue inside each location. A successful scavenger hunt will reveal a special phrase which participants will need to log their win! All participants must “register” by Saturday, August 31 at 11:59 p.m. Those who compile all 20 clues and discover the phrase will be entered into the Grand Prize drawing. Winners will be announced and contacted on Friday, September 6. 334-501-2940. https://auburnal.myrec.com

Kickoff On the Plains

Experience the best gameday and fan experience in the nation! Auburn University Tigers’ football season kickoff will be August 31, 6:30pm, at Jordan-Hare Stadium. Join thousands of Auburn fans as we kickoff this year’s season against Alabama A&M! Auburn fans are encouraged to wear orange. Don’t miss out on all the traditional Saturday Down South events like tailgating, TigerWalk, Auburn Pep Rally, and so much more! www.auburntigers.com/sports/football/

AACT Presents “Disney’s Beauty and the Beast”

Enjoy this Tale as Old as Time! Based on the Oscar- nominated motion picture, this is classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. Meet the enchanted household, Lumiere and Babette, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, and of course, Chip! Come be our guest! August 8 & 9 at 7:00 PM. August 10 at 11:00 AM. August 11 at 2:00 PM. August 15 & 16 at 7:00 PM. August 17 at 6:00 PM. August 18 at 2:00 PM. $16/Adults, $14/Children, Students, and Seniors. Ticket information line: (334) 246-1084. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, 222 East Drake, Auburn. www.AuburnACT.org

Birmingham Babypalooza Expo

New and expectant parents don’t miss this year’s Expo at the BJCC in Birmingham, August 17, 10am2pm! It’s a free day of fun and information to connect you with essential resources, education, and community support. New this year: The Black Maternal Health Expo featuring the Mommy Listening Tour is being held in conjunction with the Baby Expo. It will be offering even more opportunities to explore and connect with a wide range of exhibitors for you and your little ones. Don’t forget to pre-register for the Swag Bag Pass. BJCC, Birmingham. www. babypalooza.com/birminghambabypalooza-babyexpo/

Magical Creatures Educational Program at

The Montgomery Zoo

On August 24 from 10:00am-12:00noon, meet some of the magical animals that are featured in the movies like Harry Potter and The Hobbit. You will get a chance to meet these animals up close, learn about them in their habitats, and take home some special prizes for yourself. Magical Creatures is a combination of fun-filled and insightful educational program. Montgomery Zoo member: Accompanying adults: FREE, Children (4-12 years old): $20 and nonZoo member: Accompanying adults: $18, Children (4-12 years old): $34. Advanced reservations required. The Montgomery Zoo & Mann Museum, www.montgomeryzoo.com

Auburn Area Community Theatre Jr. Young Performers

Open Auditions for “Disney’s 101 Dalmatians Kids”

Audition dates are August 12-13, 4:00-6:00pm and Callbacks will be August 14, 4:00-7:00pmAs part of AACT’s 20th anniversary celebration, we are bringing back the classic animated tale of kidnapping villains and courageous puppies as adapted

A Back-to-School Welcome Letter from Opelika City Schools Superintendent Dr. Farrell Seymore

Dear Community Members, Students, and Teachers,

Thank you for another wonderful school year in Opelika City Schools. I always look forward to the fall of each year as there is a great anticipation of what the new academic year brings. We are very blessed to be in Opelika with the wonderful students, parents, teachers, and staff who make our school system a very special place. As our city grows, so does the school system, and plans are being made to accommodate growth as demand increases.

As we look around our school system, we have two veteran administrators who have changed positions. Mr. Nino Mason served as principal at Morris Avenue Intermediate School for the past 20 years. He has taken a position in the Birmingham area. Mr. Keith York has served as principal of Opelika Middle School for the past 13 years. He will remain in OCS as our new human resources director. These educators have served with distinction and we wish them well.

These changes present a new day in Opelika as we welcome two new administrators in our school system. We welcome Laura Sellers as the new principal of Morris Avenue. She is a veteran educator and more recently the lead teacher at that school. Additionally, we welcome Kristen Williams as the new principal of Opelika Middle School. Mrs. Williams is a longtime educator who previously worked in OCS and returns with vast experience.

Our team has been working hard this summer in preparation for the new year. A new HVAC system is being installed at Northside Intermediate School. West Forest Intermediate School is getting a new fire alarm system installed as well. Opelika High School will also have new turf and lighting installed on the baseball field. OHS football also recently received turf, lighting, and a scoreboard replacement at Bulldog Stadium. Members of the graduating class of 2024 were the first to experience the stadium light show in celebration of their graduation.

Speaking of Bulldog Stadium, the fall athletic season is just around the corner. I want to invite our community to experience a game with the stadium upgrades this fall. This is an opportunity not only to support our football team, but also the marching band, cheerleaders, and coaches who make our events community-focused. Additionally, support doesn’t have to end on Friday nights. I want to extend an invitation to support other fall sports as they begin their seasons including volleyball, cross country, flag football, and swimming. Thank you for your continued support and commitment to Opelika City Schools. We will continue to move forward in our mission to provide every student a rigorous and relevant education. We are thankful for your support as we work together to continue our mission to “educate every child, every day.”

Go Dawgs!

Farrell Seymore, Superintendent

A Back-to-School Welcome Letter from Auburn City Schools Superintendent Dr. Cristen Herring

Dear Auburn City Schools Community,

I am delighted to welcome you to the 2024-2025 academic year!

As we begin another exciting chapter, our dedicated team of educators and staff eagerly looks forward to student success starting with the first day of school on Thursday, August 8th.

Every school year is a fresh start, an opportunity for students to embark on new adventures in learning, forge new friendships, and develop new skills. Whether your child is just starting kindergarten or entering the final year of high school, each moment is a stepping stone toward their bright future.

We understand that the journey of education and success is a collaborative effort between school and home. With passion, perseverance, and your partnership, we look forward to maintaining the level of excellence that this community deserves and expects. Auburn is an incredible place to live, work, and attend school, offering unique academic, athletic, and fine arts opportunities that are designed to equip students for success.

This time of year also serves as an ideal time to set personal goals and establish effective routines. The busy schedule of school, homework, and after-school activities will undoubtedly require careful planning. While each family will navigate their new schedules differently, I am grateful for your unwavering commitment to this community’s students. We understand the challenges a new school year can bring, and we are here to support you.

With your continued support of Auburn City Schools, we will make this a remarkable year for all students!

Respectfully,

Cristen Herring, Superintendent Auburn City Schools

LSA Students Learn Essential Skills This Summer

LSA 3rd Grade teacher Mrs. Hanahan has had two groups who are learning essential skills in a fun way this summer. In “Making Table Manners Fun” camp, rising Kindergarten - 2nd Grade students learn the very basics of table manners. Through fun competitions and games, campers learn the proper way to set a table, how to order with a strong clear voice - and even the right way to butter your bread! During “The Art of Conversation” camp, girls that are entering 2nd - 4th Grade work to improve their conversation skills with words of kindness, using a social filter and learning how to not “drop the ball” when talking with another person! All of these students have had a blast learning such important life skills with Mrs. Hanahan!

OHS Class Raised Donations for Non-Profits

The 2024 Opelika High School Philanthropy 101 Class donated $11,600 to local non-profit agencies during their donation luncheon held on June 20 at the Opelika Public Library. Ten local agencies received funding through the generosity of the Samford Cannon Foundation. This three week program for rising seniors brings the principles of philanthropy to life through classroom learning and hands-on experiences. Thank you to Lucinda Cannon and the Samford Cannon Foundation for sponsoring the program and to Addi Abernathy and Dean Jones for serving as directors.

CTE Summer Exploration Camp Hosted at ACS

The Auburn City Schools Career & Technical Education Department hosted the 2024 CTE Summer Exploration Camp, which rising fifth and sixth graders attended. For a whole week, students engaged in various handson activities and workshops designed to ignite their curiosity about potential career paths. From coding and robotics to arts and health sciences, each session offered a glimpse into the vast array of career possibilities that lie ahead. This camp was a platform for these young minds to dream big and explore their interests, igniting a sense of excitement about their potential futures. ACS thanks the invaluable volunteers, community partners, and the camp coordinator, Samantha Cooper, for making this camp an unforgettable experience!

2024 Girls Basketball Camp at AHS

Under the expert guidance of Head Coach Courtney Pritchett, the varsity Lady Tigers trained and inspired more than 40 young athletes following a Class 7A Area 4 Championship and a Final Four appearance during the 2023-2024 season. Throughout the week, campers honed their skills, from mastering dribbling basics to perfecting layups. The camp concluded with exciting hot-shot competitions and full-court scrimmages showcasing all they learned. Summer athletic camps at AHS provide an excellent chance for young students to discover their passions—whether they aim for success in competitive sports or build lasting friendships!

Reading Camp at Lee-Scott Academy Was Dino-Mite

The “Read and Roar” Summer Reading Camp for rising second graders was simply “DINOmite!” Mrs. Bass led students in a thematic study of dinosaurs tied into one of the summer reading options, “Dinosaurs Before Dark” by Mary Pope Osborne. Each day consisted of digging into fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension correlated to the novel. Students participated in several STEM and art activities to include digging for dinosaur eggs, excavating dinosaur fossils, forming their own fossils, creating a dinosaur lantern and mask, and making dinosaur egg bath bombs and lava lamps. To end the week, students enjoyed a volcanic eruption, dinosaur dirt cups, and “Jurassic Juice!” It was a ROARING good time of reading!

Congrats to Jeter Primary School Student’s Art Award

Big new! Jeter Primary School’s kindergarten student, Bruce Heath, was recognized recently for his 1st place finish in the State Superintendent’s Visual Art Show! Bruce submitted an oil pastel abstract that featured vibrant colors. What an accomplishment!

a positive influence

“Let no one despise your youth, but set the believers an example in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.”

1 Timothy 4:12

ACS Introduces Two New Principals

OCS Child Nutrition Program Receives Perfect Scores

We are excited to share that every school’s cafeteria team achieved a score of 100 on their health department inspections throughout the 2023-2024 school year! Thank you to our CNP employees for your commitment to ensuring that every meal served is prepared with the utmost care. Pictured below from LtoR: Front Row - Constance Smith, Fox Run; Marsha Broach, OMS; Cathy Murray, Southview; Donna Howard, West Forest; Lynn Lee, CNP Director Back row - Elaine Smith OHS, Listasha Avery, Jeter; Debra Walker, Morris Ave; Kaela Allen, Northside; Amy Jacobs, Carver

Lamarrius Anderson and Lisa Wheatley will lead Cary Woods Elementary School (CWES) and Yarbrough Elementary School (YES), respectively. Over the past two decades, Lamarrius Anderson has developed a diverse educational career, transitioning from an elementary teacher to an instructional coach and assistant principal (CWES) and ultimately serving as a principal in Russell County Schools before his return to Cary Woods. Lisa Wheatley has a robust 30-year career in education, beginning as an elementary teacher and advancing through roles as a literacy coach and assistant principal, culminating in a decade-long tenure as a principal in Sarasota County Schools before coming to Auburn.

Lee-Scott Academy Students Learn Tech Skills

Rising 4th-6th grade students spent time on campus learning the basics of coding with our IT Department staff..through Minecraft! Mr. Christian & Mr. Henderson helped students play one of their favorite games while also helping them learn coding vocabulary as well as conditionals, functions, coordinates and more. These students had fun while learning skills they might even use in a career one day.

OCS Announce New Principal

Opelika City Schools proudly announces Mrs. Laura Sellers as the new principal of Morris Avenue Intermediate School. “We are excited to welcome Mrs. Laura Sellers as the new principal of Morris Avenue Intermediate School. She is a veteran educator who is committed to the success of all students,” said Dr. Farrell Seymore, Superintendent of Opelika City Schools. “She has excelled as the lead teacher at Morris Avenue, and we look forward to her serving in this new role as principal to continue our mission of educating every child, every day.” Mrs. Sellers has worked in Opelika City Schools for the past nine years. She began her career with the Opelika City Schools teaching fifth grade at Morris Avenue Intermediate School in 2015. She was selected as lead teacher at Morris Avenue in 2021. Before teaching at Morris Avenue, she taught sixth grade at Johnnie Carr Middle School in Montgomery, AL. “I am thrilled and deeply honored to serve as principal of Morris Avenue Intermediate School. The faculty, staff, and students at Morris Avenue are wonderful and I look forward to continuing to work with them as I move into this leadership position,” said Sellers. “My family and I love Opelika and I am excited to play a role in the growth and success of Opelika City Schools.” Sellers received her Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies at Auburn University in 2011. She continued her studies at Auburn University at Montgomery where she received a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education in 2013 and her Educational Specialist’s Degree in 2020. She also received certification in Instructional Leadership from the University of West Alabama in 2020. Sellers is a 2024 graduate of the Opelika Chamber’s “20 Under 40” program where she served as the Service Project Chair. Laura and her husband Lane are the proud parents of two children, Britton (age 6) and Brooks (age 3).

Rising 6th Graders Attend

DARE Camp

Pick Elementary was the host site for the 2024 DARE Camp, an engaging summer program administered by the Auburn Public Safety Department! This initiative is designed for rising sixth graders, emphasizing character development, teamwork, and anti-bullying education. It also provides a valuable opportunity for our School Resource Officers (SRO) to build connections with students before they embark on their secondary school journey. Camp activities are packed with fun and excitement, from whiffle ball to tug-of-war. The Auburn Fire Department also adds to the thrill with its water trucks, ensuring the inflatable slides stay lively and refreshing. A heartfelt thank you to the dedicated volunteers, including the retired Marines, who work tirelessly behind the scenes to make this camp a success every year!

LSA Art Campers Get Creative

Lower School art teacher, Mrs. Beard, held two art camps at Lee-Scott Academy. Students were hard at work and being creative. Campers designed and were able to take some incredible creations home this summer. The imaginations and pieces constructed by these campers, from 1st - 6th grade, will leave you amazed!

Please send school news to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com by the 10th of each month!

Serving Up Fun At ACS Volleyball Camp

Excitement was in the air as the Varsity Volleyball team at Auburn High School kicked off Wheatley’s Wild West Volleyball Camp with Head Coach Brian Wheatley! Young up-and-coming volleyball players filled the gymnasium with energy as they learned proper form and technique through high-energy drills. The varsity athletes lead sessions throughout the week, sharing their expertise and mentoring the next generation of volleyball stars. It’s not just about volleyball; it’s about building confidence, teamwork, and making new friends. Coach Wheatley, a seasoned mentor with years of experience and a passion for the game, was at the helm of this camp, making it an incredible opportunity. Under his expert leadership and with the assistance of talented varsity athletes, young players dove into the game and developed their talents on the court!

Baking Camp Hosted at Lee-Scott Academy

The atrium at LSA has been smelling extra nice this summer! LSA Bakes Camp led by Lee-Scott Academy fourth grade teachers have taught students how to bake some delicious treats. With two camps held each day, there are now plenty of new chefs in the Auburn area!

Please send school news to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com by the 10th of each month!

ACS STEM In Action

Talented members of the Technology Students Association (TSA) Engineering Club from Auburn High School paid a special visit to summer school, bringing along remotecontrolled vehicles they use for competitions. The elementaryaged students got an up-close look at the cutting-edge technology and engineering skills the TSA students have mastered. From intricate design to agile maneuvering, these robots are a testament to their hard work and innovation. The summer schoolers were thrilled to interact with technology by steering the vehicles through intense “battle bot” challenges. ACS thanks the TSA club members for sharing their passion and being a catalyst for sparking curiosity and innovation in the next generation of tech enthusiasts!

Lee-Scott Academy Host Summer Math Camps

Math camps with Mrs. Gothard have been a sweet treat and a way for students to beat the heat this summer! Whether counting and working on fractions using different types of candy to learn or using a pizza to see how things can be divided in real life, these groups of students have had a blast improving upon their math skills before next year.

Opelika City Schools Pre-K Setting the Standard

Rising First Graders at LSA Prepare for Fall Learning

It was the rising first graders’ turn to camp with Ms. Sanders at LSA! Students were able to strengthen their phonemic awareness, writing, reading, and sight word recognitions skills through whole group instruction and through a wide variety of hands on activities. In addition, students brainstormed book ideas to create their very own “How To” books! At the end of the week, students had their written and illustrated book to take home and share. This group will be ready for first grade in just a few short weeks!

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, Opelika stands as an example of innovation and excellence, setting the standard for early childhood education. As the community looks towards the future, its dedication to providing the highest quality Pre-K experiences serves as a testament to the power of education.

Distinguished Young Woman of Lee County

The Distinguished Young Woman (DYW) of Lee County for the Class of 2025 was named on June 29, 2024, at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. In total, the program awarded $10,500 in college scholarships. Additionally, Hood College, the University of West Alabama, and Northwestern State University of Louisiana provided $2.29 million in college-granted scholarships across the participants.

Sara Kate Speakman of Lee-Scott Academy was named the new DYW of Lee County and received $4,650 in program scholarships. Riley Yates of Auburn High School was named the first alternate and received $2,850 in scholarships, and Hannah Hines of Auburn High School was named the second alternate and received $1,600 in scholarships.

The DYW of Lee County program awarded three scholarships in each program category: scholastics, interview, talent, fitness, and self-expression. Two scholarships were awarded to participants for superior community service records, and two scholarships were awarded for writing an essay on striving to be your best self. The participants selected one participant who best represents the ideals of the DYW program to receive the Spirit Award. The full list of award recipients is below:

Scholastics Awards: Harper Olsen, Sara Kate Speakman, and Margie Grace Wilder

Interview Awards: Hannah Hines, Sara Kate Speakman, and Margie Grace Wilder

Talent Awards: Stella George, Sara Kate Speakman, and Riley Yates Fitness Awards: Kyndall Brundidge, Sara Kate Speakman, and Riley Yates

Self-Expression Awards: Hannah Hines, Sara Kate Speakman, and Riley Yates Be Your Best Self Essay Awards: Hallie Herring and Sara Kate Speakman

Community Service Awards: Hannah Hines and Riley Yates

Spirit Award Winner: Sara Kate Speakman

Sara Kate Speakman will compete in January 2025 for the title of Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama. The Distinguished Young Women Program, originally called America’s Junior Miss, was founded in 1958.

Lee-Scott Basketball Camp Success

The Warrior Basketball Camp led by Coach Harrison, Coach Johnson, and members of the Warriors’ basketball teams had a full house this summer. The gym was filled with future hoopers eager to work on their ball handling, passing, shooting and fundamentals.

ACS Encouraging Future Educators

Students from Auburn High School, guided by Education & Training teacher Julie Echols, made learning fun and impactful for summer school students with engaging math games to help sharpen multiplication and division skills!

The energy and enthusiasm from both the high school mentors and the younger students were incredible. The interactive sessions strengthened mathematical foundations and cultivated a love for learning through play. Thank you to Mrs. Echols for her leadership and passion to make this initiative successful.

ACS also acknowledges the dedication and creativity of the Education & Training students, who played a crucial role in making this learning experience memorable.

Northside Intermediate School Art Student Awarded

Savannah Finck, a student at Northside Intermediate had a delightful surprise at the State Superintendent’s Visual Art Show. Her artwork was selected, and purchased, by Alabama State Treasurer, Young Boozer, for his art collection!

Welcoming New Pre-K Students to Lee-Scott Academy

Rising LSA K4 students enjoyed time at Lee-Scott Academy where they spent some time learning with their future K4 teachers. Students practiced their letters, created with crafts together and were able to meet other students and make some new friends. LSA can’t wait to see them on the first day of school this August!

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

Auburn Day School Hosts STEM Camps

Auburn Day School’s STEM Camps are off to a fabulous start. Our future musicians explored the music world by experimenting with tempo and rhythm. Our budding musicians made instruments, including a guitar, a harmonica, and a maraca. It was a rocking time! Our Junior Vets dove into the world of animal care, treating our adorable furry buddies and taking a tour of Auburn University’s Equestrian Center! We even had a slithering snake, a duo of dogs, a cuddly cat, a shy sheep, and a charming cow stop by; check out the pictures from our animal friends who visited us. Buckle up for Auburn Day School’s wild, educational adventures!

Teacher-student cooperation is an important alliance that starts at home and affects a child’s entire academic career. Having positive relationships with teachers throughout twelve years of school can make the difference between a child who adores school and all it encompasses and a child who dreads school and struggles on a daily basis.

By the time school starts each fall, teachers have already invested years of education, practice, and preparation into getting this school year off to a great start. Most parents want their children to succeed in school but sometimes students and parents inadvertently get off on the wrong foot with teachers. How can parents encourage kids to meet educational professionals halfway?

Here are 10 tips for helping your child cultivate positive, supportive, and mutually respectful relationships with teachers from the first day of school forward.

1. Attend meet-the-teacher activities. No matter what the age of your child, don’t miss an opportunity to get to know the teacher as a both an educator and a person. It’s always appropriate for teachers and students to share things about their lives with each other as a way of bonding and getting to know each other.

2. Set positive expectations about teachers with your child. Even if the teacher your child was assigned is new or not the current parent favorite, express enthusiasm to your child about learning with the teacher she will have.

3. Communicate your child’s needs. If you can send an email to the teacher a week before school starts, that’s good timing. But it’s never too late to keep your child’s teacher up to date on your child’s specific challenges, especially those that will affect his ability to learn.

4. Let the teacher do the teaching. Once the year kicks off, assume a supporting role. Express interest in your child’s

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academic work and school activities but try to let her tackle challenges like homework and projects herself.

5. See how well your child can meet standards on his own. Schools set up checkpoints like teacher conferences to assess student progress. Use these opportunities to find out how well your child is doing in school. Be relaxed and openminded about any reports, especially if they are not what you were hoping to hear.

6. Coach from the backseat. No parent likes to see a child falter. But facing struggles can be helpful in building character and teaching him lessons about himself. Don’t do your child’s work for him. Take on a cheerleading stance instead.

7. Get more structured support as needed. If the year is at the halfway point and your child is not making solid academic progress, and you have exhausted the school’s resources, consider a private tutor, a learning service like Kumon or a tutoring service like Sylvan. Try to find a private tutor with reasonable rates using an online tutor-finder like Care.com.

8. Participate. Three common commitments are parent-teacher meetings, school events, and parent volunteering. But don’t be at the school 24-7. If your child gets the sense that you are appropriately committed and engaged in the spirit of the school without hovering, she can relax, participate, and focus on doing her best.

9. Don’t pressure. Meet your student wherever he is. There is no point in projecting your prior academic success onto your child or pressing him to achieve more than he is reasonably capable of accomplishing. Love and appreciate your child as a whole person, not just a grade at the end of the year, and he will feel secure and motivated.

10. Express gratitude. Offer teachers an inexpensive card or gift at holiday time and the end of the year. But don’t write the thank-you note for your child. Help her write it herself instead until she is old enough to take over the job.

Christina Katz is a freelance writer and frequent contributor.

Author Visits

School Spirit Days

Book Fairs Teacher Happy Hour & Discounts

“I love cooking because it brings people together,” shared Bryson McGlynn, a rising seventh grader at Opelika Middle School. “So many of my memories center around great hangouts and good food. I love creating different dishes, sharing them with others, and watching people smile.”

Bryson describes himself as a ‘good ole southern boy’ who loves to play baseball, fish, and golf, hang out with his friends, and is a total Auburn fan. His favorite subjects are percussion and science. He lives at home with his parents, Mike and Shannon, and his Cane Corso pup, Brick.

Bryson has been helping his parents in the kitchen since he was just a toddler.

“Over the years, he was able to take on more responsibilities, from smashing potatoes to grilling with his dad,” shared Shannon. “Inspired by attending cooking competitions with Mike, Bryson began competing in Kids Ques, where he found support and mentorship within the Steak Cookoff Association and the Auburn/ Opelika restaurant community.”

Following a trampoline accident, Bryson had to take a season off from baseball. It was during this time that his passion for cooking grew and he decided to take his love of cooking to new levels and places, including social media, with several platforms called “Cookin’ with Cheese Curd.”

Bryson has many accolades for his cooking. Most recently, he was named the winner of Gordon Ramsey’s Master Chef Junior—Season 9.

“I am so excited that I had the amazing experience in the Master Chef Junior kitchen. I have watched this show since I was little

and always dreamed of cooking with Chef Ramsey,” Bryson shared.

Bryson shares his Seafood Paella recipe for this month’s Dinner’s Ready recipe.

“I love this dish because it is extremely tasty and can be easily adapted to the reader’s taste,” said Bryson. It is versatile, and you can update it with different proteins and never get bored.”

Seafood Paella

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup of garlic-infused olive oil

• 1 purple onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 3 Roma tomatoes, diced

• 1 cup of celery, diced

• 2 tablespoons minced garlic

• 2-4 green bay leaves

• 1 pinch of saffron

• 2 tablespoons of Cajun PitGrit

Seasoning (also sprinkle on shrimp and final dish at plating)

• 2 tablespoons of Lanes SPG Rub

• ½ teaspoon of turmeric

• 8 to 10 jumbo shrimp for plating

• 1 pound of medium shrimp, peeled and deveined

• ½ pound of mussels

• 2 (13.5 oz) cans of coconut milk

• 1 lemon for garnishing

• 2 cups of Calrose Rice

Directions:

5. Add medium-sized shrimp to the pot and season with Lanes SPG Rub.

6. Sauté until shrimp are pink and cooked through.

7. Add two (2) cans of coconut milk, 2 green bay leaves, turmeric seasoning, and saffron seasoning to the paella pot.

8. Bring the dish to a boil.

9. Add 2 cups of the Calrose rice.

10. Once it is brought back to a boil, reduce the heat to low. You really want to create a crust along the bottom of the dish, but be careful because the coconut milk and contents could cause it to stick and burn the bottom. Just continue to watch.

11. Cook for around 25 minutes, until it forms a crust. Shake the pot pretty continuously to keep it from burning while the crust forms.

12. Sauté the jumbo shrimp in a cast iron skillet with a little bit of garlic-infused olive oil and sprinkle with Cajun PitGrit Seasoning. These shrimp are for plating the dish at the end. Cook until done or the color is pink throughout.

13. Add the mussels into the pot and cook so that they open up but you don’t break the shells.

14. Season the contents of the pot by sprinkling Cajun PitGrit on the top.

15. Plate the dish with the contents of the bowl. Add the mussels to the center and the jumbo shrimp. Add slices of lemon on the sides of the dish and garnish the top with finely chopped parsley.

1. Dice onions, tomatoes, and peppers.

2. Add ¼ cup of garlic-infused olive oil to ceramic-coated cast iron paella pot.

3. Allow olive oil to heat in the bottom of the pot for about 2 minutes.

4. Add garlic, tomatoes, onion, and peppers to the pot and sauté. You want these to render down, but you don’t want them too soft because they will cook as the dish progresses.

Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.

Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.

Identity Theft Protection?

Q. How important do you feel identity theft protection is today? Should my husband

sider it part of the Baby Steps, because in my mind it’s like car insurance and should just be part of your regular monthly budget.

Money Issue with Family

of time, and had no say in anything, fair would be for you and your brother who weren’t consulted to pay zero. Zilch. Planning something that expensive without consulting everyone involved well

and communication, or in this case, a lack

“I’m bored,” my 11-year-old daughter grumbled as she collapsed on to the couch. It was a rare unscheduled moment in her life. I cringed as I recalled what can occur when she has a spontaneous second. At the age of three, I assumed she was quietly playing with her toys only to discover the entire wall was covered with a new crayon drawn mural. We are both happier now she is enrolled in art classes. She prefers being busy which is why she partook in six different extracurricular activities this past spring. Her interests ranged from sign language class to swim team.

Besides avoiding boredom (and messes) there are many benefits to having scheduled activities for your child.

Research by NCES states that students who participated in after school activities had better attendance, higher levels of achievement, and aspirations to higher levels of education.

Better Academic Performance

Even though my daughter was in six different clubs or sports, she received all A’s in her academic classes. By participating in extracurricular activities, a child is able to learn new skills which can be applied to the school setting. For example, my daughter was in the garden club and she used the information she learned about plants in her science class. Sports such as basketball, baseball and football use statistics, addition/ subtraction, probability, and geometry which can be applied to math class.

A number of research studies found students who participate in extracurricular activities perform better in school. Douglas Reeves studied data at Woodstock High School and found students who were in three or four extracurricular activities during the year had dramatically better grades than those who participated in no extra-curricular activities. There was a study done by the College Board, which found high school extracurricular participation is correlated with higher SAT scores, SAT math by 45 points and SAT verbal scores by 53 points.

More Adaptable

If a child is participating in more than one activity, they will also experience more than one coach or teacher who will have different rules and expectations. They will have the opportunity to meet kids with a range of personalities and interests. These interactions will teach a child how to be adaptable to multiple people and situations.

Maddi and Deborah Khoshaba’s training guide, Resilience at Work, discussed the importance of being adaptable and how when adaptable people lose their jobs they thrive due to their ability to adapt to changing circumstances. Being adaptable is a skill which can be beneficial both in the school or work setting.

Better Social Skills

Children will gain social skills both from the person in charge of the activity or sport and by interacting with their peers. They also have the opportunity to learn about team work by either playing a sport together or doing a group class such as a musical for drama.

In my daughter’s book club at the end of their discussion of the book they have social time. During one meeting she didn’t read the book, but she still wanted to go to the club since she loved the social interaction with her peers.

Less Screen Time

Common Sense Media research states on average teens spend over 9 hours per day playing video games or watching TV. If children are participating in after school activities they will have less opportunity to either watch TV or play video games and they will hopefully learn new skills.

Decreased Risk of Obesity

According to the CDC obesity has affected about 12.7 million children and adolescents for the past decade. If a child participates in a sport they will be more active which leads to better health benefits from being physically fit. Even if a child did a club or an after-school activity they will be more active than if they watched TV or played video games.

How to Balance Your Child’s Schedule

Sometimes, even for my daughter, you can have too many activities. I’m always cognizant of her energy level. If she needs to skip an activity once in a while, I let her. When I noticed she wasn’t enthusiastic about going to gymnastics anymore, we both decided it would be best not to sign up for the next session. Most importantly you want to make sure your child is happy and definitely not bored

Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic, and many other publications.

Cheryl

AOP

after school care to most Auburn and Opelika City Schools.

Jenny’s Little Ranch Hands

ad on page 17

6401 Stage Road, Loachapoka, Al 36865

Offering after school care for ages 0-12 years. Providing a fun and safe environment where learning continues on a farm with country walks, farm animals, outdoor play, and more. 559-334-5759 www.jennyslittleranchhands.com

Auburn’s Best After School & Summer Camp

758 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830

Pick up from most Auburn City Schools. Our after school program keeps things exciting by providing a variety of exciting sports activities that we do indoors during the after school program and outdoors when we have special camp days! 334-329-5218 /www.auburnbestafterschool.com

Auburn City Schools

332 East Samford Avenue Auburn, 36830

Art

Kreher Preserve and Nature Center

ad on page 31

2222 North College Street Auburn, 36830

Family Art Fun: Create a nature inspired canvas using acrylics as we guide you through the design and painting process. Canvas, brushes, and paints will be provided. The class will include a 30-minute hike for inspiration. 334-502-4553 www.auburn.edu/preserve

Auburn Parks and Recreation

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center Auburn, 36830

Fall program includes: Creative Kids, Sketching with Pencils, Painting with Brushes, Learning to Paint, Classic Approach to Oil Portraits, Ceramics, and much more. (334) 704-3343 www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Before and After School Care

Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center

ad on page 25

128 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 Transportation from schools available. Children engage in many developmentally appropriate, hands-on activities that promote learning in language, fine & large motor skills, the arts, math,

science, and social-emotional skills. Nationally Accredited through NAC and Licensed through Alabama Department of Human Resources. 334-821-8125. www.auburnfbc.org/wordpress_20150529/ministries

Big

Blue Marble

ad on Inside Front Cover

585 Devall Drive Auburn, 36849 334-518-6091 bbmacademy.com/location/auburn/ 811 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 334-326-0527 bbmacademy.com/location/ auburn-glenn-ave/ 555 East Thompson Circle Opelika, 36801 334-249-1088 bbmacademy.com/location/opelika/ As a part of our before-school program, children may be dropped off in the morning and we will provide breakfast before transporting or transitioning them to school or one of our onsite school-age or state Pre-K programs. Please call your center to see which local schools we provide transportation to. Our after-school programs also offer homework support, learning opportunities, and social skills development for children.

Growing Room Child Development Center

ad on page 15

644 North Dean Road Auburn, 36830 334-501-2044 www.growingroomusa.com/auburn 1755 Thomason Drive Opelika, 36801 334-748-9020 www.growingroomusa.com/ locations/growing-room-opelika

We believe Learning Can Take You Everywhere! We offer a language based curriculum focusing on math, science & self-help skills, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, extracurricular programs include JumpBunch, Dance, Big Green Bus, & Spanish. We also prove before and

Extended day offers children the opportunity to have individualized tutoring, participation in creative activities, and interaction with peers. Activities such as art, sports, computer, music and movement, and other clubs added throughout the year help children interact socially and physically with children of all backgrounds in their community. Tutoring allows individualized instruction tailored to student’s learning styles and levels of understanding therefore improving grades and self-esteem. For more information, please contact your child’s school.

334-887-2100 www.auburnschools.org

Auburn United Methodist Church

Discovery Club After-School Program

137 South Gay Street Auburn, 36830

Students can be picked up at their schools and transported to the church for homework, snacks, crafts, cooking, recreational activities, devotionals and mission projects.

334-826-8800 www.aumc.net

Bonnie’s Kids

2314 Enterprise Drive Opelika, 36801

Pick up from school for Beauregard, Opelika & Auburn for after school programs.

334-745-6248 www.bonnieskidschildcare.com

Bright Ideas Enrichment Center

1675 Shug Jordan Parkway Auburn, 36830

We offer families an enriching place for children to learn and grow.

334-887-5730 www.brightideasfamilycom

Grove Hill Academy

1279 Weatherford Street Auburn, 36830

Our After-School Program is designed with the child in mind. This means that our agenda is designed to be interesting, stimulating, and supportive of your child’s curiosity and love of learning. All activities will be developmentally appropriate and challenging for the child at his/her age. Each day, designated time will be allotted for children to receive supervision and support on any homework. Special enrichment activities will be coordinated to introduce children to new skills and technologies.

334-521--0308 www.govehillacademyauburn.com

Miss Deanna’s Childcare

1901 Corporate Drive Opelika, 36801

334-745-7139

1745 East University Drive Auburn, 36830

After school transportation and care for Auburn and Opelika City Schools.

334-821-0066

Opelika City Schools Extended Day

Opelika, 36801

Extended Day is a program sponsored by the Opelika City Schools to provide a safe, friendly environment for children who need after school care. CARES offers tutors, homework assistance, recreation, school clubs, special activities, field trips, and other areas of enrichment for children who attend elementary schools in Opelika. 334-745-9700 www.opelika-al.gov

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County 400-B Boykin Street Auburn, 36830 334-502-1311 www.bgceastal.org 1610 Toomer Street Opelika, 36801 334-749-2582 www.bgceastal.org

An after school Youth Development program that serves youth Greater Lee County. Afternoons begin with a healthy snack followed by Power Hour: Making Every Minute Count in which club members spend time reading, receiving homework assistance and tutoring. The evening is filled with fun programming in five core areas including character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills; the arts, and sports, fitness, and recreation.

University Daycare Child Care Center

1006 North Dean Road Auburn, 36830

Before and after school care and pickup available. During the school year, our school age children have a set schedule that provides a snack, active play inside or outside and quiet time for homework and relaxing.

334-203-1234 www.udcauburn.com

Dance/Baton

Alabama Dance Theatre

1018 Madison Avenue Montgomery , 36104

The Alabama Dance Theatre offers classes in classical ballet, modern, contemporary, jazz, hiphop and tap. The goal of Alabama Dance Theatre is to maintain a high level of excellence in classical ballet training. ADT is a school recognized throughout the Southeast as a positive training ground for dancers.

334-625-2590 www.alabamadancetheatre.com

Celtic Traditions School of Irish Dance 2705 Fredrick Road, #3 Opelika, 36801

We spread the joy of Irish dancing through classes and performances. Classes include intricate footwork, musical timing and tune recognition, proper Irish dance technique, stage presence, flexibility, teamwork, rhythm, importance of working towards goals, and much more!

334-705-0303 www.celtic-traditions.net

Make Your Move Performing Arts Studio

1220 Fox Run Pkwy, Suite 212 Opelika, 36801

Dance classes for boys and girls of all ages including Baton, Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Acrobats, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Combination classes and more. Offering recreational and competition classes. 334-705-0205 www.makeyourmovedance.com

Nix Dance Studios

850 Stage Road Auburn, 36830

We offer classes for ages 3 and up. Choose from Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary, Hip Hop, Baton, Pointe, and Company. Since 1966, Nix Dance Studios have set the bar for excellence in dance performance. Nationally recognized artistic director, Paula Nix, has been a featured guest on The Today Show, in USA Weekly Magazine and serves as choreographer and general coordinator for the Lee County’s Junior Miss program. Our state of the art facilities are in a freestanding building designed specifically for dance.

334-887-7250 www.nixdancestudios.com

happens Amazing

When people with extraordinary talent and passion are given the technology, the facilities, and the support, they achieve great things. The discoveries and innovations happening today will help shape the future of treatments and lead to cures. And it benefits not only the patients and families who come to Children’s of Alabama, but people across the country and around the world for years to come.

Childrens AL •org

Rising Starz

2140 East University Drive Auburn, 36830

Offering ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, tumbling, baton, musical theatre and acting.

334-209-1464 www.risingstarzstudios.com

Taylor’s Dance Company

1345 Opelika Road, #10 Auburn, 36830

Providing dance education in a fun, uplifting, and positive environment!

334-310-5010 www..taylorsdancecompany.com

Variations Dance Studio

323 Airport Road, Suite E Auburn, 36830

Courses offered in all levels of dance including Preballet, Ballet, Pointe, Hip Hop, Jazz, Musical Theatre/Broadway, Lyrical, Contemporary, Stretch, Company, Tumbling, Acro and Competition Teams. 334-275-5013 www.variationsauburn.com

Educational & Enrichment

Gogue Performing Arts Center ad on Back Cover

910 South College Street, Auburn, Al 36849 East Alabama’s premier venue presenting profesThe Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center at Auburn University engages audiences across the university, the state of Alabama and beyond with curated arts experiences that inspire, enlighten and unite. Don’t miss this year’s K-12 School Performance Series featuring Bill Blagg: The Science of Magic, The Magic School Bus: Lost in the Solar System, Omnium Circus: I’m Possible, and more!

334-844-4722 www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Kreher Preserve and Nature Center ad on page 31

2222 North College Street Auburn, 36830

The mission is to provide programs, experiences, nature trails and natural habitats for education, study and relaxation for students and citizens of all ages while creating an atmosphere of discovery and stewardship toward our natural world.

Woodland Wonders Nature Preschool engages children to learn about, with, and through nature, embracing the great outdoors as their classroom. Children spend their time exploring and uncovering knowledge in an environment where curiosity, play, and child-led discovery are encouraged. Grounded in early-childhood philosophy and pedagogy, nature-based preschools provide an education for the whole-child, supporting their emotional, social, and academic growth.

Tree Tots: A nature-based-play class where children are encouraged to use their senses to explore their natural environment and learn together through play.

Forest Friends: An award-winning, exploratory program that offers a unique educational experience for preschool children and their parents, incorporating hands-on activities with nature and environmental awareness.

Nature Babies: part of our Forest Friends Series and is designed to encourage caregivers to take their babies out into the natural world – a world rich with sensory input. Nature provides endless ways to interact with your little one; from traversing trails together, feeling the textures of leaves, playing peek-a-boo with trees, and much more.

Nature Explorers Homeschool Program: An environmental education program designed for home-schooling families which offers a unique, nature-based educational experience. Classes incorporate hands-on science with nature and

environmental awareness, and each concludes with a nature hike.

Science On Saturdays: Lecture series highlighting current research on environmental topics. These one-hour, lecture-style programs provide exciting and interactive nature education from a local expert.

AUsome Amphibians and Reptiles: Join the staff for a one-hour presentation on the AUsome amphibians and reptiles found in our state and beyond. Children and adults will enjoy this entertaining hands-on program with live animals.

Family Discovery Hikes & Nature Walks: offer excellent opportunities to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. In The Garden With Cyndi is a fun, casual gardening class for adults where you get to learn tips and tricks, get your hands dirty, and get expert advice on a myriad of gardening techniques and best practices. 334-502-4553 www.auburn.edu/preserve

Youth

for Christ of East Alabama

ad on page 23

1400 North College Street, Auburn, AL 36830 Ages 11-19. Welcoming all youth! Here are a few ways you can be plugged in with us. Campus Life: We are in local schools for clubs and small groups. City Life: We are in the local community for events and hangouts. Juvenile Justice Ministry: We create systems and structures to help teens successfully re-enter their communities. Starting soon! Unraveled Addiction Recovery small group coming this fall!

334-501-5637 www.eastalabamayfc.org

Auburn Day School

1199 S Donahue Dr, Suite E, Auburn, 36830 Auburn Day School is a half-day, drop-in STEM preschool. Rather than themes, our lessons are taught through overarching concepts, which are ideas that can apply to anyone, at any time, with any background knowledge. Our focus is on process rather than procedures. We want to help students to learn how to think, not what to think so we can help set the foundation for a lifetime of learning. Our classes are designed with children’s interests and readiness in mind. Our age ranges overlap a bit to give parents and teachers some choice over which class is the best fit.

334-209-0460 www.auburndayschool.com

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art 901 South College Street Auburn, 36830

Educational programming which strives to meet the needs for our community through diverse offerings. Programs include Art Clubs, Tours, Exhibits, Talks, Films and Jazz, and more! 334-844-1484 www.jcsm.auburn.edu

IAMBK After-School Enrichment

Auburn, 36830

IAMBK is a 501 © 3 community organization that provides after–school enrichment programs for youth and families, grades K–12, in partnership with Auburn City Schools and other local organizations. Sessions are offered by certified and specialized instructors in a variety of areas such as creative dance, fitness, tutoring, counseling and more.

334-728–0309 iambk@ymail.com

Kumon Math and Reading Center of Auburn/Opelika

1550 Opelika Road, Suite 36 Auburn, 36830 Whether your child is seeking enrichment, needs help catching up or is just beginning his or her academic career, Kumon is designed to help him or her develop a love of learning. Kumon has become the most successful after-school math and reading program. Kumon helps accelerate

your child’s learning - from as young as 3 all the way through high school. Free placement tests are administered by appointment.

334-501-8586 www.kumon.com/auburn-opelika-al

Mathnasium

1345 Opelika Road, #6 Auburn, 36830

Learning center for math; We help kids in grades K-12 understand math by teaching the way that makes sense to them.

334-329-7225 www.mathnasium.com/auburn

Score Community Robotics Competition Teams

Science Center Auditorium Auburn University, 36849

The Southeastern Center of Robotics Education is an Auburn University Outreach initiative designed to help effectively develop and deliver robotics education to K-12 students and teachers.

334-844-8125 www.scoreau.org

Student Support

Auburn Therapy and Learning Center

ad on page 9

2000 Samglenn Drive, Suite 100 Auburn, 36830

Our mission is to empower and encourage functional daily living skills for all ages, specifically focusing on providing the highest quality treatment to improve those skills pertaining to communication, fine motor skills, sensory integration, and feeding difficulties. Our clinicians are fully licensed and trained to provide quality treatment in Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Feeding Therapy. 334-734-5511 www.auburntlc.com

East Alabama Mental Health

ad on page 5

2300 Center Hills Dr, Building II Opelika, 36801

East Alabama Mental Health Center offers a wide range of services for children and adolescents, as well as their families, who are experiencing serious emotional disturbances. Services include outpatient counseling, medication assessment and monitoring, case management, mental health consultation, and specialized programs for unique populations. Services include ABC Program, In-Home Intervention Program, After School and Summer Camps. (800) 815-0630 or 334-742-2112 www.eamhc.org

Revision Counseling Center

ad on page 19

923 Stage Road, Suite M Auburn, 36830

Services provide in individual counseling, couples/ marriage counseling, child/ adolescent counseling, family counseling, group counseling, and public engagements. Our counseling techniques include cognitive behavior therapy, solution focused, and play therapy.

334-384-8158 shelia@revisioncounselingcenter.com www.revisioncounselingcenter.com

Anxiety & OCD Treatment Services, PLLC

We specialize in comprehensive psychological treatment services, with a primary focus on the treatment of anxiety (and anxiety-related) disorders. Our treatment approach is to provide evidencebased, short-term, solution-focused therapy. 515-216-0679 www.anxietytreatmentonline.com

Ferguson Psychology

709 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830

I work with a broad range of individuals throughout the lifespan including children, adolescents, college students, and adults. I utilize cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) to address a wide range of issues in psychotherapy including: attention-deficit/hyperac-

tivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), behavior problems, social skills deficits, generalized anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), panic disorder, social anxiety, phobias, trauma and posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and general adjustment issues. 334-226-7222 www.ferguson-psychology.com

Gymnastics/Cheer/ Tumbling

Auburn Gymnastics Academy

703 West Samford Ave Auburn, 36849 Gymnastics lessons, teams, beginners, intermediate and advanced.

334-844-9098

Limit Breakers

3732 Pepperell Parkway Opelika, 36801 Gymnastics, tumbling, and cheer programs. 334-759-7030 www.thelimitbreakers.net

Premier Spirit Academy

923 B Stage Road Auburn, 36830 Offering Preschool Mighty Movers to Advanced Tumbling lessons; also tumbling for fitness and cheer basic classes.

334-821-7300 www.premierspiritacademy.com

Horseback Riding

H & G Horse Quarters

943 Lee Road 57 Auburn, 36830 Our lesson program consists of competitive riders, beginner children and adults, and a strong college group.

334-887-0026 www.hghorsequarters.com

Martial Arts

Auburn Academy of Martial Arts

323 Airport Road Auburn, 36830 Kinder Kick, Beginner, Advanced, Adults, and Homeschoolers.

334-502-7221 www.auburnacademy.com

Auburn Jiu Jitsu

758 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 Brazilian/Jiu-Jitsu is a martial art and combat sport which focuses on grappling or ground-fighting. 334-329-5218 /www.auburn-jiujitsu.com

Auburn Mixed Martial Arts

2515 East Glenn Ave Auburn, 36830

Technique taught in the martial arts of: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Judo, Kickboxing and Submission Grappling. 334-887-0818 www.auburnmma.com

Auburn Parks and Recreation

425 Perry Street Auburn, 36830 Yoshukai Karate and Kendo 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Premier Spirit Academy

923 B Stage Road Auburn, 36830 Ninja Academy: learn flexibility, strength, tumbling, and obstacle maneuvers.

334-821-7300 www.premierspiritacademy.com

World Champion Taekwondo

2701 Fredrick Road, Suite 308 Opelika, 36801

Prepare Your Child for Success in the Classroom!

A Korean form of martial arts that focuses on discipline, concentration, respect, balance and

coordination. Students should expect to have fun while learning basic kicking and punching techniques, as well as, self-defense.

334-737-5617 www.martialartsauburn.com

Music

First Baptist Opelika

Fine Arts Academy

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301 South 8th Street Opelika, 36801

Providing private music lessons in Opelika/Auburn where Christ is honored and students are challenged and inspired to develop their God-given talents for the glory and service of God. Lessons are offered in the areas of piano, voice, guitar, strings, brass, woodwinds, and percussion. Our experienced instructors are highly qualified in their individual areas.

334-745-5715 www.fbcopelika.com/fine-arts-academy

Auburn University Music Project

Auburn University Auburn, 36849

Auburn University music provides private and beginner/intermediate group lessons on orchestral string instruments to local students as well as practical hands–on training for Auburn University music and music education undergraduates. 517-648–2369 https://cla.auburn.edu/music/ auburn-university-music-project/

Spicer’s Music

2140 East University Drive Auburn, 36830

Lessons, including but not limited to: guitar, bass guitar, upright bass, keyboard/piano, voice, harp, drums, ukulele, banjo, and much more.

334-329-PLAY www.spicersmusic.com

Play and Fun

Auburn Escape Zones

1234 Commerce Drive Auburn, 36830

Work together as a team to solve puzzles, uncover clues and unlock locks in order to solve the problem or “escape the room”.

334-329-7088 www.auburnescapezones.com

CyberZone

107 North 9th Street Opelika, 36801

Interactive Entertainment Center in Downtown Opelika featuring one of the largest arcades in Alabama, Extreme 36-player laser tag, Atomic Rush, Replay Zone with retro arcades and pinball. 334-737-5000 www.cyberzone334.com

Good Times

750 East Glenn Ave Auburn, 36830

Eat. Play. Bowl. Offering bowling lanes, escape rooms, arcades and more.

334-539-3131 www.goodtimesbowling.com

Rock ‘N Roll Pinball

815 South Railroad Avenue Opelika, 36801

Rock ‘N Roll Pinball provides over 30 high-end and vintage pinball machines for your playing pleasure in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere.

334-324-1406 www.rocknrollpinball.com

Tigertown Sports

1615 Parker Way Opelika, 36081

Get ready for unmatched fun and sports entertainment! There’s something for everyone at Tigertown Sports, from a classic round of miniature golf to beach volleyball, a high-definition golf simulator, and more!

334-679-7140? www.tigertownsports.com

Scouting

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama 145 Coliseum Blvd Montgomery , 36109

Daisies, Brownies and Girl Scouts. Girls discover who they are, where their talents lie, and what they care the most about. And they take action to change the world.

334-272-9164 www.girlscoutssa.org

Boy Scouts of America: Chattahoochee Council

1237 1st Avenue Columbus, 31901

Provides a program for young people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness.

706-327-2634 www.chattahoochee-bsa.org

Sports

Auburn Fencing

229 S 8th Street Opelika, 36801

Super Youth Program: The youth class focuses on the development of common skills required for any sport, with the added teaching of fencing basics. 334-203-1989 ww.auburnfencing.com

Auburn Parks and Recreation

425 Perry Road Auburn, 36830

Offering various Youth Recreational Leagues. Please log online and view the registration information.

334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks

KidStrong

1530 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830

A milestone-acceleration program that focuses on brain, physical and character development for kids 334-780-1118 www.kidstrong.com/locations/auburn

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road Opelika, 36801

Various Recreational Leagues including Flag Football, Youth Football, Youth Cheerleading, Softball and more.

334-705-5560 www.opelikasportsplex.com

P360 Performance Sports

3765 Pepperell Parkway Opelika, 36801

Fall Instructional Baseball League: August training sessions to prepare players for the normal fall parks and recreation leagues.

334-749-4040 p360performancesports.com/auburn

Theatre

Alsobrook Performing Arts Company

1103 Glenn Street Opelika, 36801

We offer class in Acting, Musical Theatre Dance Styles, Musical Theatre Tap, and Vocal Technique. Students can also join the Triple Threat Troupe, a class focusing on competitive theatre and community performance.

www.alsobrookperformingarts.org

Auburn Area Community Theatre

222 East Drake Avenue Auburn, 36830

Come and learn new skills, or build on previous theater experience. classes are designed to inspire imagination, creativity, teach teamwork and build confidence. Students will be exposed to theater fundamentals through scene works, improv activities and more.

334-501-2930 www.auburnact.org/aact-academy/

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Through August 24

The Summer Show: Black/White +1

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn An invitational exhibition featuring works in a variety of media limited to the use of black, white and one specific color. (334) 501-2963 auburnalabama.org/arts

Through August 11

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 1 Festival Drive, Montgomery One of the most enduring shows of all time, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a humorous retelling of the Biblical story of Joseph, his 11 brothers, his father Jacob, and the coat of many colors. Follow Joseph’s journey from bondage to becoming Pharaoh’s right-hand man to his ultimate reunion with his family. This delightful and merry musical — embracing country-western, calypso, and Elvis-style rock — will have you singing in your seat and long after you leave the theatre! www.asf.net

August 1-31

Itty Bitty Auburn It’s time to break out the thinking caps and magnifying glasses for Itty Bitty Auburn in celebration of Alabama’s birthday! Participants can pick up a worksheet for the scavenger hunt at any Parks and Recreation facility or find it on the City of Auburn website, printed in select newspapers and on Facebook. The worksheet features 20 itty-bitty sites throughout one secret location in Auburn. Participants will need to go to the location and solve the itty-bitty clues. A successful scavenger hunt will reveal a special phrase which participants will need to log their win! 334-501-2940

Friday, August 2

Join Dylan LeBlanc with Special Guests Tall Pines 7:30 PM Standard Deluxe, 1015 Mayberry Ave, Waverly Take a seat on the lawn or bring your own chairs and blankets to watch the main event! Admission is $20 if purchased beforehand or $25 the day of the show. Kids ages 12 and under enter for free so make sure to bring the whole family along for the ride!

www.standarddeluxe.com/

August 2-4

Georgia Pop & Horror Con Columbus Convention & Trade Center, 801 Front Ave, Columbus, Georgia Georgia Pop Culture and Horror is a combination show. Come and experience the best in Horror, Anime, Comic’s and more. Come dressed in your best costume any day of the event. This is a show of ALL ages, and the Cosplay Contest will be open to all ages. More information will be released as we get closer to the event. www.gapopandhorrorcon.com

Saturday, August 3

SportsPlex Tri for Kids Triathlon/Small Fri Tri Sportsplex, Opelika Run, Swim, Bike! Participants will compete based on their age as of 12/31/24. 5-yearolds may participate in the Kids Tri or the Small Fry Tri. In order for a 5-year-old to compete in the Kid’s Triathlon they will need to do a paper registration. Paper registration deadline is 7/19/24. www.sportsplextriforkids.com

Tuesday, August 6

Idina Menzel

8:00 PM Gogue Performing Arts Center, Auburn University Mark your calendars for a special concert featuring Broadway actress, Idina Menzel! Menzel’s worldfamous voice can be heard as Elsa in Disney’s Academy Award-winning Frozen, the second highest-grossing animated film of all time. The song “Let It Go” became an instant international phenomenon, winning the Oscar for Best Original Song and the Grammy Award for Best Song Written for Visual Media. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

August 9-11

Jurassic Quest

BJCC, Birmingham The #1 experience in North American returns the summer! Life-size dinosaurs are meticulously painted and animated to be realer-thanreal. www.bjcc.org

Saturday, August 10

Princess for a Day

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Columbus Convention & Trade Center, 801 Front Ave, Columbus, Georgia We welcome your little princesses to come and to be a “Princess” for a Day! On this day, your princess will experience a magical time! From meeting one of their favorite princesses, crafting royal artwork, having their make-up professionally done, and much more! Purchase your ticket(s) to RSVP for this event. Please encourage your little one(s) to dress like royalty on this day!

https://visitcolumbusga.com/events/#event=princessfor-a-day-2024;instance=20240810090000?popup=1

Gabby Barrett

8:00 PM Sweetland Amp, 110 Smith St. LaGrange, Ga Warner Music Nashville’s Multi-Platinum star continues to prove herself to be an unstoppable force in Country Music. Surpassing 3 billion global career streams, the powerhouse vocalist delivers her most autobiographical work to date with sophomore album, Chapter & Verse. www.sweetlandamp.com/concerts/gabby-barrett/

August 12-13

Auditions for Disney’s 101 Dalmatians Kids Auburn Area Community Theater Jr., Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn We are bringing back the classic animated tale of kidnapping villains and courageous puppies as adapted in this “fur-tastic” musical adventure! Please be prepared to sing 30 seconds of an acapella song, preferably something from a Broadway musical, and to present “Sides” (lines) for ONE character. auburnact.org

Tuesday, August 13

Family Discovery Hike: Wildflowers

3:30 PM - 4:30 PM, Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn Join our guides for an educational adventure as you and your children take in the many sights and sounds of the Nature Center. Hikes are for families with children ages 5 to 12.

http://kpnc.auburn.edu/programs/guidedtours/

Tuesday Night Ride and Grill

5:30 PM - 7:00 PM, Chewacla Park, 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn If you’ve been thinking about coming

out to our Tuesday rides, but weren’t sure about the distance or pace, trust that you can handle it and come on out! We would love for everyone who joins us on night rides to be a member of CAMP. By signing up you help support local trail efforts and your membership fees are tax deductible. Being a CAMP member has a number of benefits and only cost $39 a year. Visit here for more information. www.facebook.com/CAMP.SORBA/

August 15-18

AACT Presents Disney’s Beauty and The Beast Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn Enjoy this Tale as Old as Time! Based on the Oscar- nominated motion picture, this is classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped under the spell of an enchantress. Meet the enchanted household, Lumiere and Babette, Cogsworth, Mrs. Potts, and of course, Chip! Come be our guest! www.auburnact.org

Friday, August 16

Avatar: The Last Airbender Live in Concert RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga Blending a live orchestral performance of the iconic series soundtrack with an immersive two-hour recap of the animated show’s three seasons…all on the full cinema screen. www.rivercenter.org

Saturday, August 17

Birmingham Babypalooza Baby Expo BJCC, Birmingham New and expectant parents don’t miss this year’s Expo! It’s a free day of fun and information to connect you with essential resources, education, and community support. www.bjcc.org

Aaron Lee Tasjan and Ricki

7:30 PM Standard Deluxe, 1015 Mayberry Ave, Waverly Take a seat on the lawn or bring your own chairs and blankets to watch the main event! Admission is $20 if purchased beforehand or $25 the day of the show. Kids ages 12 and under enter for free so make sure to bring the whole family along for the ride!

www.standarddeluxe.com/

Tuesday, August 20

Tuesday Night Ride and Grill

5:30 PM - 7:00 PM, Chewacla Park, 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn If you’ve been thinking about coming out to our Tuesday rides, but weren’t sure about the distance or pace, trust that you can handle it and come on out! We would love for everyone who joins us on night rides to be a member of CAMP. By signing up you help support local trail efforts and your membership fees are tax deductible. Being a CAMP member has a number of benefits and only cost $39 a year. Visit here for more information.

www.facebook.com/CAMP.SORBA/

Wednesday, August 21

Chris Stapleton

7:30 PM, BJCC, Birmingham With special guests Grace Potter and Allen Stone. www.bjcc.org

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Friday, August 23

Sundilla Presents the Close in Concert (Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, Foodies, and website . Admission at the door will be $25 and $15 for students with an ID. )

7:30 PM Pebble Hill, 101 S. Debardeleben, Auburn Children age 12 and under are free. Free coffee, tea, water, and food will be available, and the audience is invited to bring their own favorite food or beverage. www.sundillamusic.com.

Everclear

8:00 PM Sweetland Amp, 110 Smith Street, LaGrange, Ga One of the leading alternative rock bands to emerge from the ‘90s, and is celebrating over 20 years of hits with various albums and Grammy nominations.

www.sweetlandamp.com/concerts/everclear-andsister-hazel/

Saturday, August 24

Night Ranger in Concert

Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery Having sold over 17 million albums worldwide, performed across more than 4000 stages, and captivated a radio audience that exceeds 1 billion, Night Ranger has both epitomized and transcended the arena rock sound and style well beyond that era.

www.mpaconline.org/night-ranger/

Zoo Serve Day

9:00 AM - 4:30 PM, The Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Blvd, Montgomery Volunteers at the Montgomery Zoo are very important people and play a vital role in the success of the Montgomery Zoo.

We are looking for energetic individuals who want to volunteer in a beautiful and fun place. Volunteer commitment has allowed our Zoo to improve, expand programs, generate community involvement and support, and assist Zoo staff in daily Zoo operations .

www.montgomeryzoo.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/5658/2981?curm=8&cury=2024

Magical Creatures Educational Program

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, The Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Blvd, Montgomery Meet some of the magical animals that are featured in the movies like Harry Potter and The Hobbit. You will get a chance to meet these animals up close, learn about them in their habitats, and take home some special prizes for yourself.

www.montgomeryzoo.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/5370/2981?curm=8&cury=2024

In the Garden with Cyndi

1:00 PM Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn A fun, casual series of gardening classes for age 16 years and up, where you get to learn tips and tricks, get your hands dirty, and get expert advice on a myriad of gardening techniques and best practices. (334) 707-6512.

Habitat for Humanity

3:00 PM True Deliverance Holiness Church Gymnasium, 936 North Donahue, Auburn Join the WeHelp Coalition of Churches and enjoy Christian music and entertainment presented by local choirs, musicians,

and dancers. After the Gospel Singing, join in the Fellowship Hall for a sweet treat before returning home. A free-will offering will directly benefit Auburn-Opelika Habitat for Humanity which brings people together to build homes, communities, and hope. www.auburnopelikahabitat.org/gospel-sing

Columbus Sip & Savor Wine Fest

4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Columbus Civic Center, 400 4t Street, Columbus, Ga Join us for an exquisite journey through the world of wines at the inaugural Sip & Savor Wine Fest, a celebration dedicated not just to the artistry of winemaking but to the spirit of diversity and inclusivity in the wine industry. www.civiccenter.columbusga.gov

Sunday, August 25

Columbus Toy and Comic Book Show ($6 single ticket/$20 Family Four Pack/VIP)

11:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Coca-Cola Space Science Center, 701 Front St. Columbus, Ga Events include: Quality Vendors and Crafters, a flight to the ISS aboard Space Shuttle Odyssey, interactive games, explore exhibits featuring Shuttle Artifacts & Apollo memorabilia, and buy some swag at Stargazers Giftshop. www.ccssc.org/comicbookshow/

Monday, August 26

Wine 103

7:30 PM - 9:00 PM, Auburn Oil Booksellers Co, 149 E. Magnolia Ave, #A, Auburn Have you ever felt overwhelmed by a wine list? Confused by those bottle labels? Doubtful that people really taste things like passion fruit and potting soil? We’ve got just the experience for you. Learn about the mighty grape in

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the most unpretentious classroom, with Hanna Brown of Alabama Crown, where she will help you decipher what to swirl, sip, and shoot.

https://auburnoilbooksellers.com/event/wine-103/

August 30September 3

Labor Day Weekend

Hot Air Balloon Show & Glow

17617 US-27, Pine Mountain, Ga We are lighting up your Labor Day Weekend at Callaway Resort & Gardens with the Hot Air Balloon Show & Glow! Play all day with garden and beach access, waterfront activities like putt-putt, and endless entertainment, including the exciting Birds of Prey show.

callawaygardens.com/beach/events/labor-day-weekend/

Friday, September 6

Fall Friday Night Concert Series

7:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Uptown Columbus, 1200 Broadway, Ga Join us every Friday and hear jazz, rock, reggae, gospel, and more. A full block along Broadway is shut down to ensure enough space for dancing and air guitars. Kids dance stage left and parents dance stage right. Pull up a table at one of our many locally owned and operated restaurants or grab a lawn chair and blanket to make it a night your whole family will enjoy.

www.alwaysuptown.com/events-calendar/2024/9/6/ fall-friday-night-concert-series

Saturday, September 7

Animal Enrichment Day

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, The Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Blvd, Montgomery The goal of Animal Enrichment is to safely stimulate and reproduce behaviors that are natural for each animal in the wild. Placing different stimuli in the animals’ environment allows animals to use their five basic senses while they exercise. It is a lot of trial and error, but it is always fun! www.montgomeryzoo.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/6052/2981?curm=9&cury=2024

The Wallflowers

8:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery The Wallflowers have sold over ten million albums internationally[6] and have won two Grammy Awards: Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocal and Best Rock Song for “One Headlight” in 1998. “One Headlight” is also listed at #58 in Rolling Stone’s list of the 100 Greatest Pop Songs. https://mpaconline.org/the-wallflowers/

September 7-8

Paw Patrol Live! Heroes Unite BJCC, Birmingham Calling all good citizens! The Paw Patrol is yelping for help as they face their greatest challenge yet. Mayor Humdinger has dognapped Robo Dog and cloned him, causing chaos all over the world. It’s up to pups to catch those clones, rescue Robo Dog and show that when the going gets “ruff”, lending a paw makes you the ultimate Top Hero. www.bjcc.org/upcoming-events/paw-patrol-liveheroes-unite/

Sunday, September 8

Grandparent’s Day at the Zoo

The Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Blvd, Montgomery

Celebrate Grandparent’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, September 8. All Grandparents receive FREE admission, so make plans to join us for our Grandparent’s special day. www.montgomeryzoo.com/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/8558/2981?curm=9&cury=2024

September 12 - October 19

Art Gallery Fall 2024 Exhibition Schedule: Fall Invitational AU Connection

A special invitational exhibition featuring a variety of works by artists who were formerly or are currently associated with Auburn University. www.auburnalabama.org/arts

Friday, September 13

Auburn University Homecoming Parade and Pep Rally

6:30 PM, Downtown Auburn Roll on Home to the Plains! The event will be full of energy and the Auburn Spirit as we get ready for the game day on Saturday! The parade will feature floats from on and off campus organizations, the AU Cheerleaders, AU Tiger Paws, AU Marching Band, Miss Homecoming Candidates and Aubie! www.auburn.edu/main/homecoming

Sara Evans

8:00 PM Sweetland Amp, 110 Smith St. LaGrange, Ga

Over the last two decades, Evans has carved a successful career anchored by her insightful songwriting and warm, evocative voice. www.sweetlandamp.com/concerts/sara-evans/

Saturday, September 14

American Foundation for Suicide PreventionOut of the Darkness Community Walk 9:00 AM, Uptown Columbus and Phenix City Riverwalk

A journey of remembrance, hope, and support. It unites our communities and provides an opportunity to acknowledge the ways in which suicide and mental health conditions have affected our lives and the lives of those we love and care about.

http://www.AFSP.ORG/ColumbusGA

Sunday, September 15

Chewacla Cha-Cha 5K/10K

8:00 AM Chewacla Park, 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn Come out and run with us on the beautiful rolling trails at Chewacla State Park. Each runner will receive a race shirt and finisher award as well as loads of trail cred! A portion of the proceeds for the fourth race in the SSTS will go to MercyMed. https://ultrasignup.com/register.aspx?did=112252

Randy Travis

6:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery With lifetime sales in excess of 25 million, Randy Travis is one of the biggest multi-genre record sellers of all time and a recent inductee into the Country Music Hall of Fame class of 2016. His honors include seven Grammy Awards, 11 Academy of Country Music statuettes, 10 American Music Awards, two People’s Choice awards, seven Music City News awards, eight Dove Awards from the Gospel Music Association and five Country Music Association honors. https://mpaconline.org/randy-travis/

Tuesday, September 17

Herbie Hancock

7:00 PM Gogue Performing Arts Center, Auburn In the seventh decade of his professional life, Herbie Hancock remains where he has always been: at the forefront of world culture, technology and music. Hancock has been an integral part of every popular music movement since the 1960s. As a member of the Miles Davis Quintet that pioneered a groundbreaking sound in jazz, he also developed new approaches on his own recordings, followed by his work in the 1970s, that combined electric jazz with funk and rock in an innovative style that continues to influence music today. In the 1980s, “Rockit” and Future Shock marked Hancock’s foray into electronic dance sounds; during the same period, he continued to work in an acoustic setting with V.S.O.P.

www.goguecenter.auburn.edu/herbie-hancock/

Thursday, September 19

Fall Sundown Concert

Kiesel Park, 520 Chadwick Lane, Auburn Join Auburn Parks and Rec for an evening of music and fun. Food and sweet treats will be available for purchase from the CHILL SPOT. Bring your lawn chair, blanket, and come and enjoy great music. www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Melissa Ethridge & Jewel

7:30 PM Sweetland Amp, 110 Smith Street, LaGrange, Ga It’s the tour to not miss! 4-time Grammy nominee, Jewel, and 2-time Grammy winner, Melissa Etheridge, announce a two-part co-headlining tour. www.sweetlandamp.com/concerts/melissa-etheridgeand-jewel/

September 19-29

Jersey Boys

Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus, Ga Four average Jersey boys are “discovered” while harmonizing under a streetlamp. When they sang, everything dropped away and there was only the music. “Jersey Boys” is the story of those ordinary guys who make extraordinary musical history. Frankie, Bob, Tommy, and Nick - or as they came to be known, Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons - share memories fueled by youth then tempered by age. Told from the perspective of each member, the play dives into the highs and lows of their turbulent rise to stardom, the cost of fame and the bonds of friendship. www.springeroperahouse.org/springerproductions/ jersey-boys

Friday, September 20

Ausome Amphibians and Reptiles (Admission is $5/ person ($4 for members); children 3 and under are free. ) 4:30 PM Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College St, Auburn Join the KPNC educators for a one-hour presentation on the AUsome amphibians and reptiles found in our state and beyond! Children and adults will enjoy this entertaining, hands-on program with live animals. www.auburnalabama.org/parks

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Monday, September 23

Borromeo String Quartet with Henry Kramer

7:00 PM Gogue Performing Arts Center, Auburn Each visionary performance of the award-winning Borromeo String Quartet (BSQ) strengthens and deepens its reputation as one of the most important ensembles of our time. goguecenter.auburn.edu/borromeo-string-quartet/

Thursday, September 26

The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show

9:30 AM RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga This show has been dazzling audiences around the globe for over seven years, faithfully bringing Eric Carle’s timeless classics to the stage. www.rivercenter.org

The Piano Guy

7:00 PM Gogue Performing Arts Center, Auburn The Piano Guys have established themselves as an unstoppable musical force. Consisting of Jon Schmidt (pianist, songwriter), Steven Sharp Nelson (cellist, songwriter), Paul Anderson (producer, videographer) and Al van der Beek (music producer, songwriter), the quartet delivers audacious compositions that effortlessly transcend the confines of style and genre. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu/the-piano-guys/

Friday, September 27

On the Tracks

6:00 PM - 9:00 PM,, Downtown Opelika. The streets of downtown Opelika will be filled with live music, a photo booth, caricature drawings, and wine trail stops featuring a diverse array of wine samples. Food trucks will be featured at the event, as well as late night shopping at local retail spots!

opelikamainstreet.org/signature-events/event-one-kgrtg

Every Saturday (to August 31)

City Market

8:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Town Creek Park, 1150 South Gay Street, Auburn The purpose of City Market is to help local farmers, growers and artists to sell their fresh, local and handmade products to community members. www.facebook.com/citymarketauburnal/

Every Saturday

O Grows Community Garden

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM,, 1103 Glenn Street, Opelika

The O Grows Community Garden hosts a Saturday Farmers Market featuring local farmers, bakers, and makers! Visitors to the market can also tour the community garden and greenhouse, participate in kids’ outdoor science and art activities, attend storytime at 10 a.m., and help feed our resident goats! www.facebook.com/opelikagrows

Every 1st and 3rd Saturday of every month

Food Truck Friday

5:00 PM - 12:00 AM, Downtown Opelika Spend your first and third Friday of every month, where you can enjoy dinner and drinks from downtown restaurants, bars & breweries, and up to five different food truck partners each week. Enjoy your brews, bites, and beautiful downtown Opelika.

Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Online Rentals, and Theatrical Releases

Despicable Me 4

A Quiet Place: Day One

Sound of Hope: The Story of Possum Trot

The Imaginary

Fly Me to the Moon

When Gru’s vengeful arch-enemy, Maxime, escapes from prison, Gru, Lucy, and their children go into hiding. This film delivers exactly what franchise fans expect: loony action sequences, manic minions, potty jokes, and the ever-entertaining Gru. There are far too many sub-plots stuffed into the script, which weigh it down, but the show maintains a brisk pace nonetheless. Kids will have a whale of a good time at this movie and parents might even chuckle once or twice. Photo ©Universal Pictures

Sam’s dying of a terminal disease and not even an alien invasion is going to stop her from finishing her bucket list. This prequel to the Quiet Place franchise is a brilliantly made, soft-spoken horror flick that is suitable for teen genre fans. Strong character development, excellent acting, and violence that is often relegated off-screen make this film a good choice for people who want to test the waters in horror but don’t want to be scared senseless. Photo ©Paramount Pictures

In the late 1990s, 22 families in a small Texas town took in 77 of the state foster system’s most traumatized children. This is the true story of Pastor W.C. Martin and his wife, Donna, and how they embarked on this adoptive journey and inspired their congregation and country. Full of love, pain, heartbreak, persistence, and hope, this film will uplift viewers, whether or not they share the Martins’ religious beliefs. There is some negative content related to the children’s past histories of abuse, but the movie is still recommended for parents and teens. Photo ©Angel Studios

After a terrible accident separates him from the girl who imagined him into being, Rudger travels to the Town of Imaginaries where he discovers a looming threat to all imaginary friends. This is a stunningly designed film, teeming with light, color, and fantastical creations. It also has a smart plot premise, engaging characters, and solid messages about grief and growing up. Sadly, the movie becomes convoluted in the middle act and loses momentum. Despite its beauty, this tale might be too sad and too confusing to become an animated classic. Photo ©Netflix

The Nixon White House gives marketing whiz Kelly Jones an offer she can’t refuse: save the public image of NASA and her dubious past will be erased. Once in Florida, she locks horns with Cole Davis, the straight arrow mission director who is driven crazy by her talent for deceit but finds himself falling in love with her. This charming rom-com harks back to classic screwball comedies with zany antics, plentiful laughs, and a romance with lots of chemistry and no bedroom scenes. Recommended for adult and teen genre fans who want to have fun without thinking too hard Photo

©Columbia Pictures

The Helicopter Parent Generation Getting Kids Off Screens and Outside

The summer of 1983 looked a bit like this for my brother and me. Wake up at 7. Eat breakfast. Do our household chores. And then we were promptly kicked outside to play. We were not allowed back inside until lunch. I was 10. He was 9. We lived on 40 acres, which included a barn, 60 cows, three horses, chickens, a few dogs, and a cat. For hours every summer, we explored all 40 acres, which also had snakes, mean bulls, hornet nests, a possessed rooster, spiders, ditches, a 50foot deep pond, very tall trees, poison ivy, poison oak, and the random fox or two. We were never told to stay away from these “dangers”. We explored. We learned. We got cut and bit and sometimes broken. We came home with skinned knees and dirty feet and have a few scars that make for really great stories. Like climbing to the top of the hay in the barn that was truly two stories stacked to steal a few chicken eggs, only to find a chicken snake had beat us to it, causing immediate panic and subsequent crash of the hay bales. For me, I learned to look for eggs a little lower. I also learned that chicken snakes are mostly harmless and really only want chickens. What we didn’t have was a parent watching us. I look back at things I did at a very early age and wonder if I would have allowed my kids at that age to do the same. I am not sure. Things shifted in the 90s. Stranger Danger, while an important discussion, almost became a hyper-fixation, and parents began bringing their kids

indoors. We had Nintendo and games in the 90s, but the games were played with friends and not the world. So while kids were spending more time inside, they were still connecting with one another on some level.

By the 2000s, more complex devices and social media had entered our lives. More kids were being brought indoors over fear of what they would be exposed to if left alone outside. And we see a shift. Kids begin to play games physically alone but online with the world. Hours and hours were spent behind a screen without realworld challenges. These are challenges that we, as humans, need to grow. So, we have seen a shift in the childhood experience. As Jonathan Haidt discussed in his book Anxious Generation, it has become a phone-based childhood instead of a play-based childhood, which is integral to childhood, tween, and teen development.

As our fear of who or what may hurt our kids outdoors, ironically the place they are at the most risk is online. This is where predators are accessing our children. This is where they are having their childhood ripped from them and throwing them into an adult space. As parents, we brought them indoors to protect them. But are we protecting them?

My grandfather told me a story before he passed away at 93 that I will never

forget. One summer his parents left. He is unsure why they did not take him with them. He remembers being told they would return and would only be gone a couple of weeks. He was an only child. They lived in the country on a farm with access to hundreds of acres of woods. For that week or a few weeks, my grandfather took care of himself. He caught squirrels, skinned them, cooked them, and ate them. He also caught fish to eat and took care of his chores.

I loved listening to him tell the story because he smiled the entire time. He said it was wonderful! He was able to explore. He said it felt free. He was only seven years old. He and my grandmother were two of the most resilient people I know, with beautiful stories of a free childhood.

Of course, I’m not advocating leaving your seven-year-old for a week, as things are pretty different now. But what I do think we can do is helicopter a bit less. Get our kids outside. Let them get dirty, skin some knees and make some scars. So one day they can tell their grandchildren about their amazing childhood and even have a few scars as receipts.

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

Shannon McGlynn

AOP: Your son Bryson won this past season of Master Chef Junior at just 11 years old. How did you guys discover his passion for cooking and support him in his journey?

SM: Bryson has consistently shown a passion for cooking. From a young age, he would pull a stool or chair into the kitchen to help whoever was cooking. As he grew older, his involvement increased. Initially, he would play with his own pots and pans while we cooked. Gradually, he began participating more actively, stirring ingredients and measuring them out. He progressed to layering lasagna and preparing mashed potatoes, eventually developing skills in barbecue and grilling.

We support his culinary journey by discussing his goals, from specific recipes to broader aspirations, and helping him map out the steps needed to achieve them. Accountability is key to ensuring he reaches these milestones. We have facilitated his growth by teaching him and finding recipes he wants to cook, letting him taste seasonings and creatively think what he could do with them, helping him cook and critique what was a success and what could have gone better, but most importantly, he has been surrounded by supportive individuals who continually pour into him. Providing opportunities for him to showcase his talents is also important. We hope Bryson continues to thrive in the culinary world and finds mentors to guide him along the way. Programs like Master Chef Junior have helped him realize he has a goal right now to be a culinary professional and we hope he embraces new experiences that will help him achieve his goals.

AOP: As a mom of a very accomplished pre-teen, what piece of advice would you give other moms who might not know how to support their kid’s interests or desires?

SM: Children need to explore different activities to gain a better understanding of their strengths, weaknesses, preferences, work ethic, goals, teamwork, and individual efforts. As parents, it is essential to allow them the opportunity to try new things with the hope of success, but also recognize the possibility of failure. It is crucial to guide them through setbacks, encouraging them to either persevere or to shift their focus to a new goal.

Balancing encouragement with honest discussions is key. After each experience, discuss how it went, what could have been done differently, what successes were achieved, and what lessons were learned. Accountability is important; as a parent, it is essential to ensure they follow through on their commitments and strive to be their best in any activity they undertake. This teaches them the value of perseverance and dedication.

AOP: What are some self-care practices you use to take care of yourself as a mother?

SM: It is often said that to care for others effectively, you must first take care of yourself. While I fully agree with this sentiment, like many mothers, I have not mastered the art of self-care and often find it challenging. However, I have discovered several strategies that work for me:

• Reading a book allows me to disassociate for a while and escape into a different world of adventure.

• Going out with my friends helps me forget a bad day or provides support and advice for my goals and needs.

• Pedicures are a small act of self-care that makes me feel better.

• Pinterest and journaling help me organize my thoughts, dream up new projects, create vision boards, and discover new podcasts.

• Time with Bryson. Sometimes, I set aside chores for another day to have a getaway date with my child, allowing us to treat ourselves and enjoy stress-free time together.

• Finding a space to recenter is crucial. It could be a neighborhood pool, a backyard oasis, a favorite chair with a scenic view, or quiet time spent with God in my room.

AOP: What is your greatest hope for your child’s future?

SM: My greatest hope for my child’s future is that he continues to grow in his faith, follows God’s path for his life, finds his purpose, stays true to himself and his values, follows his dreams, and can continue to be a positive influence in people’s lives.

AOP: What has been the most important lesson you have learned since becoming a mother?

SM: Some days are hard, and “your best” looks different every day. Give yourself some grace to make mistakes and start over. At the end of the day, snuggle your babies no matter how big they are and tell them that you love them. Be real, talk about what happened and how to handle feelings. Apologize if wrongs happened, and give thanks for their understanding.

God blessed you to steward your child because He knows you through and through and you have the structure, love, and things that your child needs to fulfill their purpose and make it through this world. We got this mamas!

Rapid Fire Questions:

Favorite Season? Fall

Favorite Color? Blue

Favorite Snack? Fruit Smoothie

Favorite Animal? Dogs

Favorite Place to Vacation? Beach

Shannon McGlynn and her husband Mike met as members of the band at Auburn University. They have been married 16 years, live in Opelika, and together have one son, Bryson (12). Shannon is an Environmental Scientist for the Alabama Department of Environmental Management. As a close-knit family, the McGlynn’s enjoy spending time together, hosting cookouts, and hanging out with family and friends. They also love supporting Auburn University bands and sports. Mike and Bryson participate in various cooking competitions, which is truly a family affair, and Bryson recently claimed the winning title of Master Chef Junior, Season 9