DADS AND DUDES! BRING YOUR NERF GUNS AND AMMO FOR THE SPRING VILLA PARK
Fun
Helping
Local resources to keep kids fit and healthy...mind and body.
Getting the kids involved for the
Amelia (11) and Tennant (Tenny) Lane (7) McGill are the daughters of Tyler and Julianne McGill. Amelia is in 5th grade at Morris Avenue Elementary School and Tenny is in 2nd grade at Jeter Primary School.
Amelia enjoys spending time with her friends, reading books, playing the guitar and piano, and swimming on the Opelika Swim Team. Tenny loves learning about unique animals like axolotls, playing with her Barbie dolls, taking art classes, swimming on the Opelika Swim Team and playing soccer on Opelika Crush Soccer.
Publisher’sNote
Fitness is always trending as one of the most promised resolutions in the New Year. As families begin to embark on new fitness and wellness programs, goals are made, planned, and put into action by early January but tend to fall off by February. But as we come out of a holiday hibernation and look forward to the coming spring, our fitness resolutions are revisited and renewed.
Maybe the healthy meals have slowly evolved back into the quick runs through the fast-food windows, the gym visits have become few and far between, or the nights of scrolling and sleep deprivation have returned. If you find yourself drifting back into old, unhealthy habits, make February a time to revisit your “why” and encourage your family to jump back in too.
In this month’s edition, fitness and wellness for the whole family is our focus. Whether the goal was to start a new Pilates class or get your steps in, you may have noticed that you’re falling away from your fitness plans, which have also led to your children returning to their old habits.
In my home, we hit the ground running (no pun intended) on getting our bodies more active and sitting down for a daily, healthy meal as a family, only to find that after a few weeks, we start making excuses to stay inside from the cold and grab unnecessary sweet and salty snacks in the evening. How do we get ourselves and our family back on track? In this month’s feature article, Fitness and Family Time: Fun Ways to Encourage a Healthy Lifestyle, the author suggests various ways to do just that. With the cold evenings sticking around for a while, maybe consider indoor fitness, which can also check the fun box.
Take the kids out and enjoy an afternoon of bowling, indoor trampoline bouncing, or indoor pool swimming. This will surely get them active while having some much-needed family fun. Once the temperatures start to rise, take the family on a hike or bike ride through one of the many city parks that our area has to offer. Also, healthy farmer’s markets are going to be set up in our communities soon. Maybe get help from the kids on planning some nutritious meals and then go to the market together to gather all the ingredients. Working as a family toward more healthy meal options can be fun and also beneficial to your wellness goals.
This February, let’s rally our family back into those healthy mindsets we began 2025 with. Find some fun family outings that can get the body moving. Together is better and gives more accountability and support for all family members. From one parent to another, let’s make fitness fun again.
Kendra
kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com
Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source Auburn Opelika Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com
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 Tanni Haas
Gabriele Jones
Pam Molnar
Dave Ramsey 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
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 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
Teaching Children How to Be Humble
Pride destroys relationships. Pride prevents successful conversations, hinders people from accepting responsibility, disregards others, eliminates a person’s ability to compromise or connect, and eradicates vulnerability. When a person struggles to maintain successful relationships, pride is often the problem. If pride is the disease, humility is the cure. If you want to raise children who love others well, you must teach them to be humble.
humility is lacking, there is an abundance of selfishness, anxiety, and insecurity.
Here are seven ways to teach your children how to be humble.
Humble people care for others. Prideful people focus on themselves. To fight against our self-centered culture, parents must focus on the cultivation of humility in their homes, their children, and themselves. The trademark of humility is a genuine care for others. When you model caring for and serving others, you are laying the groundwork for your children to learn humility. In contrast, when
1. Teach them to be slow to speak and quick to listen. Help your children to become curious about others. Teach them how to meet people, ask questions, and listen intently to the answers. Teach them to listen to answers to get to know others better, not so they know to respond. Prideful people walk into a room with an attitude of “Here I am.” Humble people walk into a room with an attitude of “There you are, I am so happy to see you.”
2. Make them practice empathy. Help them see that every living thing has value. You first do this by showing your children how important they are. Help them feel valued by focusing on them and what they want to do. You can also teach empathy by
giving your children chores to help around the home and having them care for pets.
3. Help them see inconveniences as opportunities for interaction. For example, if your car battery dies and you must alter plans, encourage your children to be extremely kind to the person who assists you and emphasize the blessing of the interaction over the inconvenience of the dead battery.
4. Commit to serving others as a family. Research has repeatedly shown that people who serve others are generally happier and more content than those who do not. The high of making the game winning goal, winning a trophy, or obtaining perfect grades provide children with fleeting satisfaction. Serving others provides them with a consistent sense of fulfillment and purpose.
5. Make a habit of stating at least one thing each person is thankful for every day.
6. Cultivate respect by helping your children notice what they admire in others.
7. Embrace encouragement by having kids say and write uplifting words to others.
Raising children who are humble will always be a work in progress for your family. Do not become frustrated by the slow movement of this process. Just remember that you are raising adults, not children. Your focus must always be on who they will eventually become.
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.
Pretty Woman: The Musical at The Gogue Performing Arts Center: February 4-6
Are you ready to fall in love all over again? You don’t want to miss Pretty Woman: The Musical at The Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 South College Street. Based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, Pretty Woman: The Musical, springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell. 7pm. https://goguecenter.auburn. edu/pretty-woman-the-musical/
Save the Dates: Spring Break Camp
The Aluminum Show
The Aluminum Show brings to life industrial materials telling the interactive story of an astronaut on a mission in a futuristic metallic world ruled by technology. This Israeli company of dancers and actors creates a tour de force of movement, visual theater, and humor; and since its Jerusalem debut in 2003, the show has developed a following of thousands across the globe. East Alabama Arts Center, 1700 Lafayette Pkwy Opelika. February 11, 7:30pm. https://www.eastalabamaarts.org/performances/2025/2/11/the-aluminum-show
War Eagle Run Fest: February 23
Spring Break Camp at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center is a great way for your children to spend their spring break outdoors, immersed in an active nature-based experience to engage their whole bodies and minds. Campers will join our naturalists for three days of nature-based learning experiences and adventure in the forests of the Nature Center. Spring Break Camps are offered during both Auburn and Opelika city school spring break holidays: for Auburn City Schools: March 10 –12 and for Opelika City Schools: March 17 – 19 Camp is for 1st through 6th graders and runs Monday through Wednesday from 8 AM to 3 PM with drop-off beginning at 7:45 AM. Campers should bring their lunch and a refillable water bottle each day; snacks will be provided. This program will be held at the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center unless otherwise noted. The nature center is located at 2222 N. College Street near the AU Fisheries and Hwy 280. For more information, visit auburn.edu/preserve.
Calling all runners! Lace up your shoes and prepare to Take Flight at the annual War Eagle Run Fest. Start your journey outside the iconic Jordan-Hare Stadium and experience the thrill of crossing the finish line on the 50-yard line surrounded by the Auburn community’s boundless energy and support. Athletes and fans can choose from either a half marathon (13.1 miles) or 5k (3.1 miles) to test their mettle while touring the campus like no other Auburn fan. There will also be a 1 mile run for the Little Tigers. After gathering your commemorative medal, join us outside the stadium for our post-race tailgate and enjoy the music and food that Auburn fans have come to love with a little Cajun twist this year. Whether you are staff, student, alumni or just a fan, join us and be a part of the War Eagle Run Fest. 251 South Donahue Drive, Auburn. 7am. https://runsignup.com/Race/AL/Auburn University/WarEagleRunFest
Auburn Area Community Theatre Jr Performs “Shrek, Jr.”
Once upon a time, in a far away swamp, there lived an ogre named Shrek. One day, Shrek finds his swamp invaded by banished fairytale misfits who have been cast off by Lord Farquaad, a tiny terror with big ambitions. When Shrek sets off with a wisecracking donkey to confront Farquaad, he’s handed a task — if he rescues feisty princess Fiona, his swamp will be righted. Shrek tries to win Fiona’s love and vanquish Lord Farquaad, but a fairytale wouldn’t be complete without a few twists and turns along the way. Join us as we go on this adventure with song and dance. Show dates are February 28- March 8, $12/Adults, $10/Children, Jan Dempsey Community Art Center, Drake Ave, Auburn. https://auburnact.org/shrek-the-musical-jr/
Zoo Weekend at the Montgomery Zoo:
March 1-2
Join us for a festival and carnival-like wild Saturday - Sunday at Zoo Weekend, our annual Spring fundraiser. This fun-filled weekend at the Montgomery Zoo, enjoyed by generations and loved by all ages, will be filled with great music, two stages of live entertainment, games and prizes for the kids, inflatables and slides, rides, animal presentations and encounters, tons of yummy concessions, and fun, fun, fun! Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, Al. https://www.montgomeryzoo.com
BODYTRAFFIC
A dance and movement series event presented by Gogue Center for the Performing Arts on February 19, 7:00pm. Led by artistic director Tina Finkelman Berkett, BODYTRAFFIC has conquered the contemporary dance world with its stunning performers, technical mastery and commitment to the most challenging repertoire. Bursting with cutting-edge “vivid theatricality,” BODYTRAFFIC takes the stage with compelling works that embody the company’s energy, sophistication and sheer joy in dancing. For tickets, visit https://goguecenter.auburn.edu/bodytraffic/.
Orlando: February 20-March 1
Telfair B. Peet Black Box Theatre, Auburn University Campus. This captivating theatrical adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s classic novel explores themes of gender, identity, and the fluidity of time. Set across centuries, the play follows the journey of Orlando, a young nobleman who defies the constraints of society and embarks on an extraordinary quest for self-discovery. Orlando’s exploits, including a love affair with Queen Elizabeth I, result in hilarious self-reflective moments. Through a magical and poetic narrative, Orlando is a spellbinding exploration of love, compassion, transformation, and the eternal search for belonging amidst a hostile world. https://cla.auburn.edu/theatre/productions/ current-season/
Auburn City Schools are Prepared
Auburn City Schools is actively engaged with the nSide platform, which has been essential for keeping emergency operations plans current, logging drills, and ensuring staff and safety teams are well-prepared to respond effectively in a crisis. This designation as a Champion of School Safety was evaluated through both the frequency of platform usage—such as sessions and in-app activities— and the overall quality of the Emergency Operations Plan in ACS. The nSide Operations Team included a personal note expressing their appreciation for ACS Safety Coordinator Steve Hall: “Mr. Hall is very attentive to safety protocol and procedures throughout his district. He was very knowledgeable and helpful to us during the implementation process. When we needed guidance or information about certain schools, he was always quick to be supplemental in every way possible. Mr. Hall is also a very sound and prompt communicator, as he always gets back to us as soon as possible when we have a question or concern. We thoroughly enjoyed working with him this year as Auburn enhanced their safety initiatives.”
WPE Celebrates With a Winter Wonderland
Woodland Pines Elementary School became a winter wonderland for Polar Express Family Night. Students and their guests enjoyed a magical evening filled with winterthemed math, literacy, and writing games in their holiday pajamas, topped off with hot cocoa and the gift of a book to take home. It was a night of learning, laughter, and festivities. ACS is proud of WPES for creating a fun educational experience for the whole family!
Jeter Primary School Principal Relieves Distinguished Award
Opelika City Schools celebrates Mr. David Carpenter, Principal of Jeter Primary School, for receiving the District VII Distinguished Principal Award at the AAESA Conference in Perdido Beach. Congratulations on this well-deserved honor!
OCS Students
Celebrate Liberty
Honoring heroes and celebrating liberty! Our second graders from Carver Primary School, Jeter Primary School, and Southview Primary School had an unforgettable day with the Hands-on Liberty Program. Thanks to the Liberty Learning Foundation and all the incredible sponsors who made this meaningful experience possible!
Fox Run Announces
TOTY Join us in congratulating Leigh Moore, Fox Run School’s 2024 Teacher of the Year! Your dedication, leadership, and enthusiasm make an incredible impact.
TCS Christmas Concert 2024
Congratulations to Trinity Christian School’s Christmas Concert and Band Concert and to all the students that performed this year.
OHS Launches Culinary Food Truck
Opelika High School celebrated the official launch of its Culinary Food Truck! This innovative mobile classroom will provide students with hands-on culinary training, entrepreneurial experience, and the opportunity to serve the community. Guests, including school leaders, board members, and Opelika Chamber representatives, joined us to mark this exciting milestone. Chef Eldred and our student chefs prepared delicious cookies and brownies for everyone to enjoy! This food truck wouldn’t be possible without the incredible generosity of our donors – we thank them for making this experience a reality.
S.T.E.M. PROGRAM M-F, May 27-August 1 Half Day: $1885/full
8 a.m.*-11:30 a.m. (19 mo.-9 yrs) Full Day: $3985/full summer 8 a.m.*-3:30 p.m. (19 mo.-9 yrs) *early drop off option 7:30 a.m.
WEEKLY S.T.E.M. CAMPS
M-F, May 27-August 1 12:30 p.m-3:30 p.m (ages 4-9)
D.A.R.E. Program
Graduates SMCS Students
5th graders graduated the D.A.R.E program after spending 10 weeks learning with Officer Jay Stroud. They learned all about making wise
AHS Students Are Career Ready
Students in two Career Tech programs at Auburn High School recently pursued industry-approved certifications to enhance their marketability in the workforce. These students earned Food & Beverage and Skid Steer career readiness indicator certifications through Skills for Success; a no-cost, industry-recognized training program offered through Southern Union State Community College for Alabamians to develop skills for well-paying jobs. ACS is proud of Chef John Everson and Jessica Bowlin for their commitment to excellence in their respective CTE programs and CTE Director Dr. Silvia Scaife’s continued leadership in preparing students for the future!
St. Michael Catholic School Students
Travel the World
1st grade packed their bags and created their passports to travel to all parts of the world to discover how they celebrate Christmas in different cultures and regions! Students started in Mexico and ended up in England!
CWES Sets Sail for Pinataville
Cary Woods Elementary School students delighted families and loved ones with their performance of The Holly Jolly Pirates of Piñataville! Under the leadership of CWES Music Teacher Dr. Rob Lyda, the talented young performers brought this toe-tapping musical to life with songs, laughter, and, of course, pirates. It was a memorable morning for students filled with smiles and holiday spirit. ACS is proud to foster the arts from kindergarten to high school and appreciates everyone who works tirelessly to provide music education to our students!
Congrats to Opelika City School’s
Secondary TOTY
Congratulations to Tracy Tidwell, Opelika High School’s 2024 Teacher of the Year and the OCS Secondary Teacher of the Year! Your leadership and dedication to students are second to none.
Lee-Scott
Academy Presents Christmas Program at Grandparents Day
Our Grandparents Day Christmas Programs were truly special celebrations, highlighting the joy and love that define the true meaning of Christmas. Thank you to Mrs. Petrone for organizing another wonderful program as well as our incredible faculty, staff, and students for their dedication and hard work in making these events unforgettable!
OMS Students Earn Spots in All-State Choir
We’re thrilled to celebrate the achievements of 13 Opelika Middle School students who earned spots in the Alabama All-State Choir! This honor recognizes their exceptional talent and dedication to the arts. They’ll head to Birmingham in April to rehearse with renowned directors and perform with top students from across the state. Special thanks to all 32 OMS students who auditioned—your hard work inspires us! Let’s cheer for these incredible vocalists as they prepare for this unforgettable experience.
OHS Students Win Essay Contest and Scholarships
Congratulations to Jancyn Thompson and Hayley Ponds. Jancyn earned first place and a $5000 scholarship, while Hayley won second place and a $3000 scholarship in the Omega Psi Phi Fraternity’s International High School Essay Contest on social media’s impact on mental health. Both also received the Joseph Durr Scholarship and an additional $1000 each! Their achievements were celebrated at the Achievement Scholarship Gala at Auburn University. We are so proud of their hard work and dedication. Way to shine!
OCS Celebrates Elementary TOTY
Join us in celebrating Anna Grizzard, West Forest Intermediate School’s 2024 Teacher of the Year and OCS Elementary Teacher of the Year! Your unwavering commitment to education makes you an extraordinary role model.
LSA Government Class Takes Historical Tour
Mrs. Chancey’s AP Government class toured the Museum of East Alabama in downtown Opelika to learn more about our local community.
They also visited the largest Christmas tree in Alabama, located right in the middle of downtown!
AHS Cross-Country Team Recognized at Board Meeting
The 2024 AHSAA Class 7A State Champion Cross-Country team from Auburn High School was recognized during the December Board of Education meeting. Over the course of a ten-meet season, these talented athletes showcased their grit, determination, and teamwork, achieving victory in every competition they entered. The season’s pinnacle came with a thrilling one-point victory over Hoover High School, securing the seventh state championship in eight years. Leading the team was sophomore Sarah Tole, a sophomore who has earned the distinction of being the number one-ranked runner in the state of Alabama. Sarah’s dedication and performance have been a source of inspiration for the entire team and a testament to the strength of Auburn’s cross-country program. The championship team included:
- Abby Merner
- Adeline Clark
- Audrey Erath
- Hannah Kwon-Larson
- JB Wade
- Linnea Cox
- Maggie Shaw Cox
- Natalie Schoonover
- Rylee Plexico
- Sarah Tole
Our dedicated alternates, who supported the team every step of the way, were:
- Valeria Escalera
- Abigail Hardee
- Cates Brantley
This season was a true team effort, with all 34 girls contributing to the program’s success and creating an environment of excellence. Their hard work, camaraderie, and relentless pursuit of improvement set a high standard for future seasons. ACS is proud of these student-athletes, Head Coach Erica Skidmore, Coach Jake Wade, Assistant Coach MG Maddox, and their continuing the dynasty!
ACS Announces Elementary and Secondary TOTY
Auburn City Schools is excited to announce the Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year, Allison Etheredge and Josh Wine! With 14 years of experience in public education, Mrs. Etheredge is in her fourth-year teaching sixth-grade math at J.F. Drake Middle School. Mr. Wine is the Director of Bands and the Fine Arts Department Chair at Auburn Junior High School. Their applications will now compete at the regional level with aspirations of making the Sweet 16 at the state level. Join us in celebrating Mrs. Etheredge and Mr. Wine as they represent Auburn in the ALSDE Teacher of the Year program!
SMCS Performs Annual
Christmas Program
Congratulations to the students that performed in St. Michael Catholic School Christmas Program in December.
OCS Congratulates Middle School
TOTY
Let’s hear it for Rachele Weaver, Opelika Middle School’s 2024 Teacher of the Year!
Your passion for teaching and student success is truly remarkable.
DRES Gets Creative
Creativity is in the air at Dean Road Elementary School, as students had the opportunity to work with artist-in-residence Jacqueline McDonough, better known as Ms. Clay! Ms. Clay introduced students to the art of ceramics, guiding them through painting their own clay gingerbread people. Each piece will be fired in a kiln and ready to become a special gift for their families—just in time for the holidays! Her passion for art doesn’t stop there. Ms. Clay has also shared her expertise with Auburn City Schools art teachers in a hands-on paper clay class and led a workshop on the same topic at the 2024 Alabama Art Education Association Fall Conference held at the Hotel at Auburn University. ACS thanks Ms. Clay for inspiring creativity and spreading joy through art!
Lee-Scott Academy Student Named to All-State Jazz Band
Congratulations to Lee-Scott Academy junior James Bagley on being named to the Alabama All-State Gold Jazz Band, the top band in the state! Not only did James make the band, he was named first chair for tenor saxophone. If you’ve heard James play, you know this comes as no surprise! Congratulations James!
ACS Thanks the Board
Auburn City Schools is proud to celebrate and express our deepest gratitude to the incredible individuals who comprise our Board of Education. These five dedicated leaders volunteer their time, energy, and expertise to ensure our school system thrives and continues its tradition of excellence. Thank you to our Board Members:
• Melanie Chambless, Board President
• Kathy Powell, Board VicePresident
• Sharon Tolbert, Board Member
• Blake Prestridge, Board Member
• David Warren, Board Member Your
unwavering commitment to the success of our students, teachers, and staff is inspiring, and our entire community is grateful for your leadership.
St. Michael Catholic School 4th Graders Engage in Engineering
Mrs. Young’s 4th graders had an electrical engineer visit their science class. He helped students make parallel and series circuits! Students learned about batteries, conductors, insulators, and different types of energy sources. The following week, they created electromagnets using their knowledge of circuits. Way to go 4th grade.
Trinity Christian School Starts Year Off With Science
Swinging into the New Year in science! Students performed an experiment that tested how different factors, radius and centripetal force, affect uniform circular motion.
YES Celebrates the Holidays
Yarbrough Elementary students filled the school with holiday cheer during their festive program, “Celebrate!” Directed by Mrs. Tracey Oprandy, talented third, fourth, and fifth-graders shared songs and performances that captured the spirit of the season. Highlights included renditions of “Jingle Bell Parade,” “Golden Ribbons, Silver Bows,” “Holiday Hoedown,” and “When the Holidays Come.” From speakers to bell players, every student lit up on stage! ACS thanks all the students, teachers, and families who made this event so special!
AHS Outreach Club Hosts Holiday Event
The Auburn High School Outreach Club hosted a heartwarming day of fun, games, and activities for our students with special needs. Smiles were everywhere as students enjoyed festive games like reindeer ring toss, snowball basketball, and karaoke. The holiday fun didn’t stop there! Students also got creative building gingerbread houses and making ornaments to celebrate the season. A huge thank you to the Outreach Club members for their kindness, leadership, and dedication to creating inclusive and joyful experiences for all!
LSA Students
Create Sculptures
6th Grade students created their own nativity scenes out of clay in art with Mrs. Beard recently. Their sculptures were then fired in the kiln. Afterward, students glazed their pieces and had them fired in the kiln once more to make them appear as glass. As students prepared to take these home, they were read, “’Twas the Night That Began Christmas” by Catherine Waters. Following the familiar rhyme and verse of Clement Moore’s “’Twas the Night Before Christmas,” the book shares Biblical truths to carry readers from the first Christmas to the second coming of Christ. It’s our hope that as the students see their nativity each year, they are reminded of the full story of why Jesus came that first Christmas!
Spelling Bee
Winners at SMCS
The top two students from each class spelling bee (3rd-5th grade) competed in the school spelling bee. Congratulations to Leanora for winning first place and runnerup Jacob! Leanora will continue on to the Lee County Spelling Bee!
Keeping Christ in Christmas at St. Michael Catholic School
Thank you to the wonderful Knights of Columbus, who held our annual Keep Christ in Christmas competition! Students created artwork depicting what they think Keeping Christ in Christmas looks like! The Knights of Columbus awarded a 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winner in each grade! Way to go students and thank you Knights!
AHS Esport Team Wins State Championship
The Auburn High School Blue MarioKart team has won the 2024 AHSAA Esports Championship! The team defeated the Alabama School of Cyber Technology and Engineering today at the University of AlabamaHuntsville in the Charger Union Theater! ACS is proud of these students and Coach Jacque Middleton for securing the first-ever Esports State Championship for AHS!
History Comes Alive at AJHS
Enjoy Greenlight. On Us.
Students in Mr. Logan Shaddix’s history class at Auburn Junior High School recently completed a powerful project inspired by the heartfelt correspondence featured in “Dear Betty, Love Byron.” This book captures the story of Lt. Byron Yarbrough, an Auburn native who served in the Pacific Theatre during World War II, and Betty Jones, his pen pal from Cordele, Georgia. Through their letters, a friendship blossomed into a romance—tragically cut short when Lt. Yarbrough was killed in action in 1945. Betty cherished the letters for the rest of her life, never marrying and preserving this poignant chapter of history. To make this project even more meaningful, AJHS partnered with Dr. Mark Wilson of Auburn University at Pebble Hill, and student projects were judged by a special panel, including Dr. Wilson; Mrs. Teri Lorant, Byron’s niece; and Mrs. Nancy Dupree, Betty’s niece, who discovered the letters. Mrs. Dupree and Dr. Wilson visited AJHS this morning to present awards to the project winners, share insights about the letters, and commend the students for their work. ACS is proud of these students for their creativity and dedication to preserving a touching piece of Auburn’s history!
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LSA Toy Drive a Success
Lee-Scott Academy completed its annual Toy Drive and was able to send off tons of toys to be included in the Auburn City Toy Drive. Thank you to FCA Area Rep for the Auburn Area & Assistant LSA Baseball Coach, JT Clark, for joining us this morning and reminding us of how the greatest gift we’ve been given is Jesus…we just have to receive it! Thank you to the Mr. Hudson & the LSA Jazz Band, Mrs. Reeves & Mrs. Miller for leading us in hymns, our students who performed the
Shop With a Cop a Huge Success
A heartfelt thank you to the Opelika Police Department for organizing the annual Shop with a Cop event! We are so grateful for their commitment to making the holidays brighter for 60 deserving Opelika City Schools students. Thanks to their leadership and the generosity of community partners and local businesses, each child had the opportunity to shop for themselves and their families, creating unforgettable holiday memories. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this incredible initiative!
LSA Students Pack Gifts for the Azalea House
7th & 8th Grade students had a special Christmas celebration as they wrap up their first semester. To start the day, they packed gifts for the Azalea House. After going to see the new movie, “The Best Christmas Pageant Ever,” all together, students lined the Middle School hallways for a meal together.
With pizza, salad, treats and drinks, students spent quality time with each other and their teachers celebrating a great job well done this year!
Please send school news to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com by the 10th of each month!
AHS Korean Leadership Program Raises Funds for BigHouse
As part of the Korean American Youth Leadership Program, students from Auburn High School organized a 5K event to raise donations for the BigHouse Foundation. Through their hard work and dedication, they raised $3,080 and were able to contribute over 70 boxes of essential items—diapers, wipes, pull-ups, baby shampoo, and dozens of baby pajamas. Seeing students make a difference for families in need is truly inspiring. ACS is proud of these young leaders!
Buddy the Elf Visits Lee-Scott Academy’s Lower School
Buddy the Elf helped open car doors, visited classrooms and read to 1st Grade students! Apparently, the easiest way to spread Christmas cheer at LSA is by reading aloud for all to hear!
Freebirds.
This is the word that Brantley and Stephanie Felintin are using to describe their upcoming transition into becoming empty nesters. Olivia (18), their only child, will be attending the University of Alabama this fall.
“Our daughter will graduate from Auburn High School in May, and we will move her into the dorm at Alabama in August; we will then be “Freebirds,” shared Stephanie light-heartedly. Olivia plans to pursue a degree in Marketing.
Brantley and Stephanie have been married for 18 years and are originally from the Atlanta area. Sixteen years ago, Brantley’s job transferred them to Auburn, and they fell in love with the area. It has been the perfect place for their family of three to call home. They also have a 14-year-old pup named Lucy and a three-year-old cat named Milo.
“We absolutely love living here. The community is so great and family-oriented. There’s also so many fun things to do,” Stephanie shared. “We also own a house on Lake Martin where we do spend a lot of time. We pretty much live at the lake during the summer and spend most weekends there during the off-season.”
With Olivia beginning a new chapter this year, Stephanie decided she would too. After nearly two decades as a stay-at-home mom,
she decided now is the time for her to get a career. She has been attending East Alabama School of Esthetics.
“I graduate in September, to be followed by obtaining a new job in this amazing industry of esthetics,” said Stephanie. “2025 will be full of major changes, but these are all exciting changes to come.”
The Felintins prioritize a large family dinner every Sunday at their home. These dinners often include close friends as well.
“When Olivia was younger and I was not in school, we had dinner as a family every night,” shared Stephanie. “Now that Olivia is older and has a part-time job, a lot of nights, we just order in food. She will grab food after work, or I’ll fix something before leaving for school, and everyone can eat it when they’re ready that night.”
When cooking, Stephanie says the load is split pretty evenly between her and Brantley because they both enjoy cooking. Even if it is her turn to bring the heat into the kitchen, Brantley will usually be there, by her side, as the designated “chopper”. Stephanie describes his chopping skills as “a lot faster” than hers.
• 1 package (10 oz) frozen chopped spin ach, cooked and well drained
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1 egg, slightly beaten
• 1⁄4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 tsp. salt
• 1/2 tsp. dried oregano, crushed
• 1 jar (15 oz.) Prego Traditional Italian Sauce
• 12 jumbo shell-shaped pasta shells, cooked al dente, drained and cooked
• Optional: Fresh parsley for serving
1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
2. In a large bowl, mix well the first seven ingredients.
3. Stuff about three tablespoons of the cheese and spinach mixture into each shell.
Stuffed Shells are one of the family’s favorite dishes to make and enjoy together. This recipe is an old Prego Italian Sauce recipe from 1988.
“We are sharing Stuffed Shells, our most favorite recipe,” Stephanie said. “I’ve got to be honest; this is my husband’s specialty, and he is the one who makes this. His mother gave him a cookbook when he turned 30, and this recipe was in it.”
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.
1601 Academy Drive
Auburn, AL 36830
Phone: (334) 821-2430
ADMINISTRATION
Dr. Stan Cox Head of School
Dr. Mary Anna Martin-Smith Lower School Principal
Ms. Donna Lloyd Upper School Principal
Mrs. Lynn Waldrip Chief Finance and Operations Officer
Mrs. Leigh Smith Executive Director of Admissions & Advancement lsmith@lee-scott.org
ENROLLMENT
Approximately
Students
Call or email Director of Admissions Leigh Smith today at (334) 821-2430 or lsmith@lee-scott.org to schedule a campus visit.
SCHOOL PROFILE 2024-25
In 1981, two independent schools, Lee Academy of Auburn and Scott Preparatory School of Opelika, merged to become Lee-Scott Academy. The strong traditions of academic excellence and emphasis on Christian values of both schools continue as the hallmark of LSA. Originally located on the campus of Lee Academy, steady growth in enrollment lead to the 1996 construction of our present campus in Auburn. Enrollment for the 2024-25 school year is approximately 807.
FACULTY
The 2024-25 Lee-Scott Academy faculty consists of 84 professional staff members; 65 percent of these members have advanced degrees, including 4 doctorates.
ACCREDITATION/MEMBERSHIP
Lee-Scott Academy holds dual accreditation from the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and Cognia. It holds membership In the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) and The College Board. Lee-Scott Academy has been selected as an Apple Distinguished School.
ADMISSION
Admission to Lee-Scott Academy is selective and competitive. The admission process consists of a review of academic records, including standardized test scores, and an interview process. Lee-Scott Academy enrolls students without regard to race, sex, religion or ethnicity.
ATHLETICS
Lee-Scott Academy Warriors’ athletic teams compete in 14 different sports, including swimming & girls’ flag football, in the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA). Each sport includes Junior Varsity and Varsity level programs with some also having Middle School teams. Lower school students can participate in Pee-Wee football, cheerleading, and basketball programs for their own age groups.
ARTS
Lee-Scott Academy’s fine arts program is consistent with our mission of developing the total person. Research over the past several decades supports the significance of fine arts education curriculum in encouraging the development of higher order thinking skills such as creativity, problem-solving, effective communication, self-discipline and critical thinking. Our fine arts programs attract large numbers of participants because they are of high quality, and just plain fun. Upper School fine arts offerings include art, drama, chorus and band. Our students at all levels consistently bring back superior ratings and blue ribbons from district and state AISA and other regional competitions.
Lee-Scott Academy is a college preparatory school offering a quality education in an environment where students are protected, nurtured, and challenged with biblical, Christcentered principles that promote the development of the total person. The pursuit of excellence in academics is the hallmark of the Academy, complemented by opportunities to participate in programs that encourage student success. CLASS
SENIOR GRADUATES IN THE CLASS OF 2024 60
MILLION EARNED IN SCHOLARSHIP OFFERS $3.2
3600 +
HOURS OF MISSION TRIPS AND COMMUNITY SERVICE
15
It’s always a great occasion to consider what you can do to make your life as stress-free as possible. How about downloading a parenting podcast or two? The wonderful thing about podcasts is that you can listen to them whenever you have some time, including when you’re doing other things. Here are some of the very best parenting podcasts on mental health and wellbeing. Listen up: they offer lots of advice on how to de-stress your life.
A Little Easier
(Available at: Apple, Audible, Spotify)
Hosted by Kendra Wilde, a mom of three with an M.B.A. from Harvard Business School, A Little Easier is a long-running podcast on how parents can stay more resilient and less stressed when their kids are faced with behavioral, emotional, learning, or medical challenges. Through interviews with a wide range of experts and ordinary parents whose kids experience various challenges, Kendra covers topics like the importance of creating a community of support, engaging in self-care, and being honest about one’s emotional journey as a parent.
HERSelf
(Available at: Apple, Audible, Spotify)
Unlike A Little Easier, which focuses explicitly on how to keep calm when raising kids with various challenges, HERSelf explores more broadly how parents can de-stress their lives. It was created by Abby Green and Amy Kiefer, two mothers who, after long careers in sales and nursing, respectively, decided to share their life experiences (they each have three kids). Recent topics include the importance of asking for what you need, how to have a satisfying relationship with your partner, and how to love your kids without losing yourself in the process.
Holding Space
(Available at: Apple, Audible, Spotify)
Holding Space is the brainchild of Dr. Cassidy Freitas, a licensed therapist with
a doctorate in Marriage and Family Therapy. Dr. Freitas draws heavily from her own, clinical experience in her podcast which examines topics such as the importance of letting go of perfectionism and maintaining a strong work/life balance. She’s a highly-regarded expert on mental health and wellbeing and is a frequent guest on other popular parenting podcasts, including Momwell (mentioned below). She also offers online courses for expectant and newly-minted parents.
Momwell
known parenting site, is the creator and host of The Motherly Podcast. Aside from interviews with experts from various fields, this podcast includes conversations with dozens of mothers on the strategies they use to keep their lives as stress-free as possible. The podcast also has interviews with prominent people from the world of politics and entertainment, like Valerie Jarrett (former senior advisor to President Obama), Christy Turlington Burns, and Kristen Bell.
The SelfWork Podcast
(Available at: Apple, Audible, Spotify) Erica Djossa, a practicing psychotherapist who specializes in women’s mental health, created Momwell (originally called Happy As A Mother) to reach a wider audience of women. Her podcast explores such issues as how to share parenting responsibilities with your partner and how to engage in peaceful conflict-resolution. Like the hosts of HERSelf and Holding Space, Erica also offers online courses and workshops on questions like how to prepare emotionally to go back to work after pregnancy and how to create a smooth transition to child care.
The Motherly Podcast
(Available at: Apple, Audible, Spotify) Elizabeth Tenety, a mom of five and one of the co-founders of Motherly, the well-
(Available at: Apple, Audible, Spotify) Like Dr. Freitas of Holding Space, Dr. Margaret Robinson Rutherford draws heavily on her extensive experience as a clinical experience on her podcast, The SelfWork Podcast (she’s been practicing for more than 30 years). As an expert herself, the podcast resembles more a conversation between equals than interviews. Recent themes include emotional self-regulation and the importance of making and maintaining close friendships. One of Dr. Rutherford’s central points is that mental health and well-being require knowing and satisfying your own needs.
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.
Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Online Rentals, and Theatrical Releases
As our family grows, it is hard to squeeze in everything we have on our to do list. At the end of the day, we end up pushing off exercise until tomorrow, promising ourselves we will be less tired if we take a night off. Instead, we spend our downtime flopped down on the couch, lost in a digital world of glowing screens.
As parents, we are leading by example. If we want our kids to lead a healthier lifestyle, we need to show them how it’s done. It’s time to get up off the couch, shut off the screens and bring back an interactive family time. Can’t think of anything to do? Keep reading for a little inspiration.
Family Fun Runs – Sign up the family for a 5K walk/run in your area. These family friendly courses lead participants through colored foam, glo paint, mud and even obstacle courses. While every child is different, many kids over 8 can walk or run a 5K.
Laser tag – This adrenaline raising activity is a great rainy day plan for families. Players wear lightweight targeted vests and carry a “loaded” laser gun. Played in a semi dark room with plenty of places to hide, teams try to hit their opponent’s target and get points for each hit.
Post-Workout Smoothies
Your Kids Will Love:
Chocolate Covered Strawberry Smoothie
1 cup milk of choice
1 cup strawberries
1-2 tablespoons of Nutella
1 avocado
3 cups baby spinach
1 scoop chocolate kids’ protein powder
1 cup of ice
Watermelon Delight Smoothie
1 medium seedless watermelon –cut in chunks and frozen
1 cup milk of choice
1/2 cup non fat Greek vanilla yogurt
3 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon flax or chia seeds to thicken
PB&J Smoothie
1 cup frozen mixed berries – strawberries, raspberries, blueberries
1 banana, sliced
2 tablespoons peanut butter (or nut butter of your choice)
1 cup baby spinach
1 ½ cups of milk of choice
Play Pickleball – Pickleball isn’t just for suburban moms. Make it a family affair and run off some of the kids’ energy while enjoying some friendly competition. While everybody is different, a 150 pound person can burn 178 calories in 30 minutes. Check out how many calories you can burn on carloriejam.com.
Pull out the bikes – Many of the local trails are set up for bikes as well. Let the kids ride their own bicycles or bring them along in a bike trailer if they are younger. Cycling 10-12 mph burns 30-45 calories
to play with their game systems and their parents will like the games that get them off the couch.
Trampoline arena –trampoline uses a lot of energy so you burn calories while having fun. In addition to simple trampoline jumping, many arenas include dodgeball courts and air-robics classes.
Walk instead of drive –
Challenge your family to walk and ride bikes to do local errands like picking up a
Active Entertainment
Auburn Escape Zones
1234 Commerce Drive, Auburn, Al 36830
Immerse your group in a room with a specific theme, problem and goal. You must 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
Bowlero
719 Opelika Road, Auburn, Al 36830 24 interactive bowling lanes and arcade 334-887-6573www.amf.com https://www.bowlero. com/location/bowlero-auburn-al
Good Times
750 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830 Bowling lanes, arcade games and escape rooms. 334-539-3131 www.goodtimesbowling.com
Surge Trampoline Park
2506 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, Al 36801 Indoor trampoline park with jousting, slam dunk hoops, dodge ball courts, toddler play, arcades and more. 334-737-5599 www.surgeopelika.com
Fitness Programs
Auburn’s Best After School and Summer Camps
ad on page 13
758 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830
Keep your kids moving in many activities: Martial Arts, Dance, Tumbling, and other out door sports. 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
Opelika Parks and Recreation
ad on Inside Front Cover
1001 Andrews Rd,, Opelika, Al 36801
Offering multiple facilities to promote healthy lifestyles for the family. Fitness programs include fitness classes, tumbling, swim, tennis, basketball, football, softball/baseball, karate and much more! 334-705-5560 www.opelikasportsplex.com
Auburn Parks and Recreation
425 Perry Street , Auburn, Al 36830
Offering fitness programs in track, football, baseball/ softball, tennis, martial arts, dance, basketball, soccer, swim and more! 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama. org/parks
Crossfit Kids at All-In Crossfit 1747 Ogletree Road, Suite F, Auburn, Al 36830
CrossFit Kids emphasizes good movement throughout childhood and adolescence in the hopes that we can make kids more physically literate, enhance their sports performance, and decrease sports injuries. 229-886-3545www.allincrossfit.com
KidStrong
Healthy Food/Nutrition
Auburn Parks and Recreation Market
425 Perry Street , Auburn, Al 36830
Monthly Market: Meets the 4th Tuesday of the month. Partnering with local growers to bring you the best produce, jellies and bounty of Lee County.
334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks
Dayspring Nature Shop
1011 Avenue C, Opelika, A; 36801
1530 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830
KidStrong is a child development training center focused on brain, physical & character development for ages walking through 11 years old. KidStrong offers a science-based curriculum that is parent-focused and taught by professionals. 334-780-1118 www.kidstrong.com/auburn
Providing clean products that create healthy lives. Our goal is for our shoppers to come in and leave with all the items they need that fit their healthy lifestyle including food, herbs, vitamins, water, pet needs, beauty products and more 334-203-1965 www,dayspringnatureshop.com
Opelika Farmer’s Market
411 South 10th Street, Opelika, Al 36801
Come on down and support the best locally owned
farmers market! We have the freshest produce and the most beautiful plants around! 334-705-0010 www.facebook.com/opelikafarmersmarket
Parkway Farmer’s Market
2180 1st Avenue , Opelika, Al 36801
Full line of fresh fruits and vegetables year round. With plenty of fresh and frozen local produce and Southern favorites like fatback and okra, the Parkway Farmers Market is a must-try market. 334-737-2080 www.parkwayfarmersmarket.com
Outdoor Parks
Kreher Preserve and Nature Center
ad on page 30
2222 North College Street, Auburn, Al 36830 20 acre track, comprising seven natural habitats, including special points of interest such as the Longleaf Pine Demonstration Forest, Wildflower Trail, Boulder Ridge, Butterfly and Vegetable Gardens, Hidden Falls and the old Homestead. 334-502-4553 www.auburn,edu/preserve
Callaway Gardens
17800 US Hwy 27, Pine Mountain, Ga 31822 Bike and nature trails, fishing, boating, swimming, treetop adventure, zip line, geocoaching and much more.
844-512-3826 www.callawaygardens.com
Chewacla State Park
124 Shell Toomer Parkway , Auburn, Al 36830 696 scenic acres offer plenty of rest, relaxation and recreation; include a 26-acre lake, swimming area, playground, a modern campground, picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters, cabins, hiking and mountain biking trails.
334-887-5621 www.alapark.com/chewacla-statepark
Covington Park
213 Carver Avenue, Opelika, Al 36801 Outdoor playground and green space 334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov
Felton Little Park
341 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830
Playground, a batting cage, a picnic area with three grills and three picnic tables, as well as three youth softball/baseball fields.
334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks
Hickory Dickory Park
1399 Hickory Lane, Auburn, Al 36830
A unique, multi-level playground structure including slides, swings, towers and open play areas. 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/park
Kiesel Park
520 Chadwick Lane, Auburn, Al 36830
Auburn’s largest park, with a pavilion, a garden, a pond and a walking trail with a distance of 2 1/4 miles.
334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks
Martin Luther King Jr Park
190 Byrd Street, Auburn, Al 36830 Pavilion, playground, basketball goal, and a fenced-in field.
334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks
Municipal Park (Monkey Park)
700 5th Avenue , Opelika, Al 36801
Several playground areas, a picnic shelter, a gazebo, and an antique miniature train known as the Rocky Brook Rocket 334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov
Oxbow Meadows
3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus , Ga 31903
Walk down our trails to catch a glimpse of native wildlife, view our wetlands and ponds, or to explore our educational and fun Discovery Trail.
706-807-8550 www.oxbow.columbusstate.edu
Ray Ward Park
Crenshaw Street, Opelika, Al 36804
Basketball court, multi-use fields and playground 334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov
Sam Harris Park
850 Foster Street , Auburn, Al 36830
Auburn’s first “poured in place” accessible
playground available for children and adults with disabilities
334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks
Spring Villa Park
1474 Lee Road 148, Opelika, Al 36804
325 acres of beautifully wooded land with nature trails, picnic sites and spring filled swimming. 334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov
Town Creek Park
1150 South Gay Street , Auburn, Al 36830
Kid’s playground and walking trail that is 0.87 miles long, and an additional trail is being built around the pond.
334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks
West Ridge Park
1600 Covington Avenue, Opelika, Al 36801
Baseball complex and playground equipment. Call for more information on this facility. 334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov
Parent Programs and Support
Alabama Department of Public Health
ad on Inside Back Coveer
201 Monroe Street, Montgomery, Al All Kids
Children Health Insurance Program: A low-cost, comprehensive healthcare coverage program for children under age 19. Benefits include regular check ups and immunizations, sick child doctor visits, prescriptions, vision/dental, hospitalization, mental health and substance abuse and more. Women, Infants and Children (WIC): supplemental nutritional program for pregnant women, breastfeeding women and women who had a baby within the last 6 months, infants and children under the age of five.
888-737-5437 www.adph.org
East Alabama Medical Center
2000 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, Al 36801
Small Wonders Program: The program will help you get the care you need to have a healthy pregnancy. Breastfeeding Support Group: Meets each Thursday at noon.
334-749-0390 www.eamc.org
Integrea Community Mental Health
2506 Lambert Avenue, Opelika, Al 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. We provide services at locations in Alexander City, Dadeville, Opelika, Phenix City, and Valley.
334-742-2700 www.eamhc.org
The Parent Assist Line (PALS)
A collaborative service of The University of Alabama Children’s Trust Fund. Call and a parenting resource specialist will answer, listen to you, then offer helpful and supportive information.
800-962-3030 https://pal.ua.edu/
Pediatric and Family Physicians
Pediatric Associates of Auburn ad on page 10
2901 Corporate Park Drive, Opelika, Al 36801
Our skilled team of pediatricians offers comprehensive medical care for infants, children and adolescents. We specialize in medical care for kids, and we would love to get to know you and your family better. Our commitment is to help children reach their highest potential by working with parents to promote and maintain their child’s physical and emotional well–being from birth up to college years. 334-203-1766 www.auburnpediatric.com
The Children’s Hospital
ad on page 37
1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, Al 35233
Children’s of Alabama is the only medical center in Alabama dedicated solely to the care and treatment of children. It is a private, not-for-profit medical center that serves as the primary site of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) pediatric medicine, surgery, psychiatry, research and residency programs.
205-638-9100 www.childrensal.org
Auburn Family Medicine
665 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830
Comprehensive, compassionate and individualized family care.
334-826-1111 www.auburnfamilymedicine.com
Auburn Pediatric and Adult Medicine
2353 Bent Creek Road, Suite110, Auburn, Al 36830
We provide primary care services to patients of all ages.
334-887-8707 www.auburndoc.com
Cornerstone Family Chiropractic
323 Airport Road, Suite A, Auburn, Al 36830
Cornerstone Family Chiropractic provides very specific care and attention through state-of-the-art technology, premiere office amenities, and attentive and involved staff members. The team at Cornerstone truly has a heart to serve others by helping you get back to the things you enjoy most in life!
Whether it’s participating in recreational sports, playing with your children, or getting back your golf game, our mission is simple: to provide chiropractic care that is affordable for the whole family.
334-246-2252 www.cornerstone4health.com
Ferguson Psychology
709 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830
Services offered for 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/hyperactivity 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
Pediatric Clinic
2401 Village Professional Dr S, Opelika, Al 36801 We provide primary care health services for infants, children and adolescents. 334-749-8121 www.thepedsclinic.com
Sunshine Pediatrics
197 E University Drive Suite 2, Opelika, Al 36832
We offer a unique, multidisciplinary wellness experience. We promote physical health, optimal nutrition, developmental gains, emotional wellness, learning success, spiritual growth, and mindfulness. 334-329-7862 www.sunshine-peds.com
Pediatric Dentist & Orthodontics
Auburn
Pediatric Dentistry
ad on page 17
841 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830
We are a pediatric specialty practice which means our focus is entirely on children and adolescents. We specialize in diagnosis and treatment of children’s oral health needs and development. Each visit to our office includes cavity detections, monitoring of growth and development and daily prevention of decay by focusing on proper home care.
334-826-6651 www.auburnpediatricdentistry.com
East Alabama Pediatric Dentistry
ad on page 29
742 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830
We cater to children and is dedicated to providing the best quality dental services available for your child. With each visit, we hope to teach your child the importance of dental care, along with encouraging them to keep up the good work and to stay cavity-free.
334-321-0780 www.gatergrins.com
Shelley Orthodontics
ad on page 18
1870 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830
From clear braces to Invisalign, we offer a wide variety of treatment options using the most up-todate orthodontic technology. Rely on the experts at our practice to create your perfect smile in an affordable and comfortable fashion.
334-521-0112 www.shelleyorthodontics.com
Thames Orthodontics
ad on page 11
719 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830
At Thames Orthodontics, Dr. Allyn Thames and our team are specialists in providing orthodontic care for patients of all ages, and we focus entirely on creating beautiful, confident smiles that last a lifetime. Our top priority is to deliver the best orthodontic care in a friendly and comfortable environment while utilizing the latest advancements in orthodontic technology. We provide orthodontic treatment for patients of all ages, including traditional metal braces, clear braces, and Invisalign® clear aligners.
334-501-7000 www.thamesorthodontics.com
Thrive Family Dentistry
ad on page 38
1800 Samford Trace Court, Suite 140, Auburn, Al 36830
Dedicated to caring for your dental care with the attention you’d expect from family. Offering a wide variety of services for the entire family including preventatives, whitening, dentures, extractions, root canals, emergency, and more.
334-521-5071 www.auburn.dental
Allen Orthodontics
1234 Ogletree Village Lane, Auburn, Al 36830
Dr. Hank Allen specializes in helping children, teens and adults achieve beautiful, straight smiles by providing orthodontic solutions specifically tailored to suit each patient’s lifestyle and personal preferences.
334-705-8655 www.bracesbyallen.com
Auburn Opelika Dental
1610 2nd Avenue, Opelika, Al 36801
Offering family dental services.
334-745-6295 www.opelikaal.dental/
Liles Pediatric Dentistry
2320 Moores Mill Rd, Ste 250, Auburn, Al 36830
Our office provides specialized dentistry for children and adolescents in a warm, caring and “child-friendly” environment. We focus on preventive care to help each child grow a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.
334-887-0099 www.lilessmiles.com
Sprayberry Orthodontics
773 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830
We can customize any orthodontic treatment plan that fits not only your teeth but your life and personality.
334-821-5031 www.sprayberryortho.com
The Game’s Not for Everyone
Q. I’m 38, and after looking and waiting for years, I think I’ve found a rental property scenario I like. My plan is to take $30,000 out of my retirement account, and use it as a down payment on a property. My loan payment would be $1,400 a month, but I could easily rent the place for $1,800 a month. What are your thoughts?
A. No offense, but I can tell you’ve never been a landlord before. Bringing in nearly $1,800 a month, while paying out $1,400 may seem like a nice place to be. But you’ve left one very important factor out of your equation—risk. Rental properties just sit there empty sometimes. And this happens to all rental properties. You’ll also have repairs to contend with, renters who don’t pay and other expenses. See what I’m saying? You won’t
be able to count on an easy $400 in your pocket every month.
Now, I love real estate. I understand the excitement and allure. But what you’re really saying is you want to cash out part of your retirement, get hit with a penalty and take on debt, all to buy an investment property. This is not a good plan.
My advice is to save up, and pay cash for one small, decent rental property to see if the landlord game is really for you.
The Safest Place?
Q. Where is the best place to keep my savings?
A. In my mind, when it comes to savings, the idea is to park the money in a safe place—like a money market account or basic savings account—and keep it separate from the rest of your cash, so you don’t accidentally spend it on the wrong thing. I’m not really concerned with making money in a savings scenario, so things like setting money aside for an emergency fund or vacations fall into this category.
Investing, on the other hand, is when you’re going to leave the money alone for a bare minimum of five to 10 years to grow it. Things like college planning and retirement fall into this category. In these instances, I recommend good, growthstock mutual funds that have stable track records of at least 10 years.
We’ve all been there: despite our very best efforts – and cajoling - our kids simply won’t eat healthy, home-cooked food. How about trying a new strategy and making healthy eating a fun activity?
Here are some fun
ways to inspire the kids:
Dinner for breakfast
Everyone knows about “breakfast for dinner,” but have you ever considered “dinner for breakfast”? “Well, why not,” says Shannon Crocker, a dietician. “If it was a healthy, balanced meal last night, it’s still a healthy, balanced meal this morning.” If your kids’ favorite food is pizza, serve mini-pizzas with healthy fillings like tomato sauce, ham, pineapple, and cheese.
Cooking club
Get some of your kids’ friends or classmates together and start a cooking club on afternoons or weekends. You could hire a local culinary student to teach basic cooking skills. “Children are more likely to eat healthy foods if the presentation is appetizing and if they have a hand in preparation,” says Patti Ghezzi of Greater Good Communication, a non-profit that focuses on nutrition and food.
Roll-ups
Have the kids “roll” their own food, sushistyle. They can roll whole wheat tortillas with ham and cheese or peanut butter and banana. They can also roll pizzas with shredded mozzarella and tomato sauce. The possibilities are endless. “Kids love these fun snacks, and they’re packed with protein, potassium, and filling fiber,” says Angelina Sickora, a dietician.
Funny faces
Take a bunch of vegetables and have the kids make the funniest faces possible on the kitchen counter. Hint: peas are good for eyes. “This is a great way to increase children’s sensory experiences (and then
probably acceptance) with veggies in a fun and entertaining environment,” says Karina Savage, a dietician.
Healthy plates
Have the kids create a meal that includes items from all four food groups: fruits and vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. “Assembling a balanced plate is one of the most practical skills you can teach a child,” says Shannon Doleac, a nutritionist, “and creating plates can become fun nutrition activities for kids.”
Guess the fruit or vegetable
Put a bunch of fruits and vegetables in a bag, have the kids close their eyes, and ask them to choose one thing. The goal is to guess what it is based on how it feels and smells. “Exploring food with all of their senses moves them closer to trusting and eating that food,” says Ms. Savage.
Dessert as main course
Put a small portion of dessert on their plates, just enough to keep them hungry and eat the main course. “You’ll be surprised when your child suddenly takes a bite of dessert along with a bite of some
thing else, instead of just gobbling up the dessert,” says Jennifer House, a nutritionist.
Guess the fruit
Have your kids guess which fruit you’re thinking of by describing its color, shape, texture, and taste. “It’s a great way to have fun while promoting healthy eating in kids,” says Ms. Savage.
Follow their passion
Kids have different passions. Some are interested in certain countries or cultures, others in specific colors or textures. “What’s your child’s current obsession?” asks Katie Kick, the author of Good Life Eats. “Incorporate that into their food.” Kids are more likely to take an interest in what they eat if it aligns with their passions.
Healthy recipes
How about having the kids collect all their favorite, healthy recipes and make a book
out of them? For added fun, each recipe could have a key ingredient starting with a different letter. “Creating your own family recipe book is always a memorable project,” says Ms. Doleac.
Plant person
Take a bunch of vegetables, put them on the kitchen counter, and ask the kids to make a “plant person.” “Once you’re done,” says Ms. Savage, “it’s a great chance to ask the kids if they want to eat some of their plant person.”
Let them dip
For a healthy afternoon snack, give the kids some food they can dip: fruits and vegetables, whole wheat crackers, or pita. The dip could be fat-free yogurt, salsa, or guacamole. “A great dip makes everything better!” says Aracely Rojas, a dietician.
Plant a garden
If you have an outdoor garden, dedicate a small area for the kids to grow their own fruits and vegetables. If not, grow a small kitchen garden. A hydroponic (water) garden is a lot of fun. “Kids are invested and interested in foods they’ve watched grow in a way that’s otherwise hard to replicate,” says Alisha Grogan, a pediatric occupational therapist.
Bake something wholesome
Kids love to bake. Have them help you make a loaf of bread with whole wheat flour or a banana bread with some overripe bananas. “Making pasta or gnocchi is another fun option,” says Ms. Savage, “but be prepared for the mess!”
Cut out images of food
Gather old magazines and have the kids cut out images of all the farm-fresh foods they can find. “This is one of the best nutrition activities for discussing whole foods and clean eating,” Ms. Doleac says, “and why they’re an important base to build our meals from.”
Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at The City University of New York – Brooklyn College.
Embracing the “Let Them” Theory: A Powerful Approach for Parents
As a devoted reader, I get genuinely excited when I discover a book that can truly benefit parents. Recently, I came across “The Let Them Theory” by Mel Robbins, a renowned influencer, public speaker, and author, and it sparked my interest immediately. Mel discussed this theory on her podcast last year, and it resonated with ideas I have long advocated for in my work with kids and teens.
The essence of the “Let Them” Theory is straightforward yet profound. It encourages us to let them —if someone says something mean about you, let them; if you’re not invited to a party, let them; and if someone doesn’t like you, let them. However, this approach’s critical second part is titled “ Let Me. ” This means acknowledging that while we cannot control others’ behavior, we can control our reactions. Let them be who they are, dig their holes, and express themselves. The key is to recognize that we hold the power over our own responses. When faced with negativity, remind yourself: “Let them,” followed by “Let me” decide how I will take care of myself.
I introduced this concept to middle school students last year, and initially, their reaction was hesitant. When I suggested they respond with “let them” in the face of cyberbullying, they felt vulnerable and fearful of being an easy
power, conserving energy that would otherwise be wasted in futile arguments or confrontations.
Moreover, it’s important to note that Mel Robbins wrote this book primarily for adults, emphasizing the critical role parents play in helping children regulate their emotional responses. This is why it’s vital for parents to be attentive to their child’s social media interactions. As issues arise, parents can lead the way by modeling appropriate responses.
target. However, as we dove deeper into the meaning of “let me,” they began to understand its significance. They realized that if they become victims of cyberbullying, saying “let them” means choosing not to engage with the bully. Instead, they could follow up with “let me” and reach out to a trusted adult, contact a resource officer, confide in a counselor, or inform their parents. They could block the bully on social media or simply ignore hurtful comments. This approach allows them to reclaim their
Social media can be an emotional regulation time bomb for kids—and adults—who face daily challenges online. By using the “Let Them” Theory with parental support, children will learn to step into their power. They will realize that while changing another person is impossible, they are responsible for their own reactions and actions.
How empowering is that! Together, we can guide our children to navigate the complexities of social media with confidence, resilience, and self-awareness!!
Bush serves as a national education consultant and
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.
Kristi
social
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Throughout
February
Rodell Warner + Audubon + His Journals Expo Louise Hauss and David Brent Miller Audubon Gallery, Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, Auburn The Jule invites contemporary artists inspired by nature to research Auburn University’s collections to engage with, question and critique John James Audubon’s evolving legacy. Trinidadian artist Rodell Warner reimagines John James Audubon’s writings and selections from the iconic Birds of America series, animating text and visuals to foster new ways of seeing and experiencing history. Warner’s digital animations have been exhibited at the Art Gallery of Ontario; Big Medium, Austin, Texas; the Museum of Contemporary Art, Taipei; and the Pérez Art Museum, Miami, Florida. Rodell works between Port of Spain in Trinidad, Kingston in Jamaica, and Boston, Massachusetts.
Through February 9
Lunar New Year
Stone Mountain Park, 1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd Stone Mountain, Ga. Stone Mountain Park is proud to host the Lunar New Year Festival. This festival features a Drone Show, Light Show, cultural craft activities, storytelling, puppetry, dance and drum exhibitions, parades, and other cultural elements. https://stonemountainpark.com/activity/events/lunarnew-year/
Through February 21
2025 Winter Show: Paperworks
Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn An exhibition open to area artists featuring both twodimensional and three-dimensional artworks using paper. (334) 501-2963 auburnarts@bellsouth.net
Saturday, February 1
Science on Saturday: Bird Progra with Dr. Geoff Hill
10:00 AM Kreher Preserve and Nature Center, 2222 North College St. Auburn Join Dr. Goeff Hill as he leads a program on native bird species in Alabama. Sarah Crim, (334) 707-6512 kpnc.auburn.edu
The Addams Family
7:30 PM RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga A comical feast that embraces the wackiness in every family, THE ADDAMS FAMILY is the magnificently macabre hit musical featuring everyone’s favorite creepy, kooky characters. Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family. https://rivercenter.showare.com/
February 4-6
Pretty Woman: The Musical at The Gogue Performing Arts Center
7:00 PM Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 S College Street, Auburn Are you ready to fall in love all over again?
You don’t want to miss Pretty Woman: The Musical at The Gogue Performing Arts Center on February 4 at 7:00 p.m. Based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, Pretty Woman: The Musical, springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell. https://goguecenter.auburn.edu/pretty-woman-themusical/
February 6-9
Auburn Area Community Theatre performs
“Almost Maine”
Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Drake Ave, Auburn A special Almost-Valentine’s Day offering from AACT! One clear cold night, as the Northern Lights hover in the star-filled sky above, the residents of Almost, Maine find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways. Welcome to Almost, Maine, a place that’s so far north its almost in Canada. And it’s not quite a town, because its residents never got around to getting organized. So, it almost doesn’t exist. Tonight, knees are bruised, hearts are broken. But bruises heal, and hearts mend (almost!) in this delightful midwinter night’s dream. This quirky collection of stories about love is consistently one of the most-produced plays in America. infoauburnACT.org
February 6-23
The Watsons Go to Birmingham Alabama Shakespeare Festival, 1 Festival Drive, Montgomery, Al Based on the book The Watsons Go to Birmingham — 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis. Ten-year-old Kenny chronicles the events of a fateful summer for the Watson family of Flint, Michigan. Momma and Dad decide it’s time for Kenny’s teenage brother to have a lengthy stay with strict Grandma Sands in Birmingham, Alabama, and the family heads south — toward a deadly, defining moment in American history. www.asf.net
Friday, February 7
Sundilla presents Ian Sherwood (Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, Foodies, and online. Admission at the door will be $25 and $15 for students.) 7:30 PM Sundilla Concert Series & Radio Hour, 450 E. Thach Avenue Auburn 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
February 7-8
Daddy Daughter Date Night ($20 per ticket for each father ticket & 1st daughter ticket, $5 each additional daughter.) Lake Wilmore Recreation Center, 2200 Grove Hill Road, Auburn Join Auburn Parks and Recreation for their 34th Annual Daddy Daughter Date Night. Friday, February 7th and Saturday, February 8th, 6:30-9pm each night at the new Lake Wilmore Recreation Center. Tickets go on sale Monday, December 9, 2024 at 8 a.m. CST. This year’s theme is a Black and White Ball. https://auburnal.myrec.com/info/activities/program_ details.aspx?ProgramID=30175
Mother Son Blue Jean Ball ($30 per couple/$10 each additoinal son) 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Covington Recreation Center, Opelika A fun night out for moms and sons of all ages. Ticket includes meal, corsage, boutonniere, and entertainment. https://www.opelika-al.gov/
Saturday, February 8
The Auburn Forum for Southern Art and Culture: Teaching Making
1:00 PM Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, Auburn, Al The Forum is dedicated to institutionalizing object-based learning and museum-enhanced pedagogy through artistic and scholarly investigation of
the American South.2025 Theme: “Teaching Making” Examine environmental and educational intersections of art and craft found in their production, presentation and instruction.
https://jcsm.auburn.edu/event/forum-25/
February 11-16
Six
2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd., BJCC, Birmingham, Al From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over!
americantheatreguild.com/birmingham/shows/six/
Tuesday, February 11
Family Discovery Hike: Nature Love
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/
The Aluminum Show
7:30 PM East Alabama Arts Center, 1700 Lafayette Pkwy Opelika The Aluminum Show brings to life industrial materials telling the interactive story of an astronaut on a mission in a futuristic metallic world ruled by technology. This Israeli company of dancers and actors creates a tour de force of movement, visual theater, and humor; and since its Jerusalem debut in 2003, the show has developed a following of thousands across the globe.
The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center: Spanish Journey
7:00 PM Gogue Performig Arts Center, 910 S College Street, Auburn Experience The Chamber Music Society of Lincoln Center: Spanish Journey. Spend a musical evening in Spain—a country of enchanting colors, rhythms and textures—in a program imaginatively created by violinist Kristin Lee. The distinctive Spanish style is beautifully expressed in piano trios of Falla and Turina, while guitar, an instrument deeply associated with Spain, is played by Grammy Award winner Jason Vieaux. Complementing the program are vocal works by Sarasate, Rodrigo and Obradors, the texts of which beautifully express the flair and passion of the Spanish language.
7:00 PM Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 S College Street, Auburn Celebrate Valentine’s Day with the enchanting vocal harmonies of Voctave, performing live in Auburn. Renowned for their captivating a cappella renditions, Voctave’s repertoire includes Disney medleys, Broadway favorites, and timeless pop hits. Their viral performances, such as the Disney Love Medley, have captivated millions, showcasing their impressive vocal range and intricate harmonies. With international acclaim and multiple chart-topping albums, Voctave promises a night of lush vocals and
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romantic classics, making this concert a must-see for a cappella fans and lovers of heartfelt music. https://concerts50.com/show/voctave-in-auburntickets-feb-14-2025
February 14-15
Daddy Daughter Dance
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Opelika SportsPlex This year’s theme is “Denim and Diamonds”. $30 per couple/$10 additional daughter. Registration required by Feb 3. Includes meal, corsage, boutonniere, activities and entertainment.
https://www.opelika-al.gov/FAQ.aspx?TID=27
Saturday, February 15
Sweethearts Day at the Zoo
Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, Al Sweethearts Day at the Montgomery Zoo, moms bring your sons, dads bring your daughters to a wild day of adventure at the Zoo. Purchase a regular daytime adult admission, and receive one FREE child admission.
https://www.montgomeryzoo.com
Wednesday, February 19
BODYTRAFFIC
7:00 PM Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 S College St Auburn Experience a night of dance and artistry. Led by artistic director Tina Finkelman Berkett, BODYTRAFFIC has conquered the contemporary dance world with its stunning performers, technical mastery and commitment to the most challenging repertoire. Bursting with cutting-edge “vivid theatricality,” BODYTRAFFIC takes the stage with compelling works that embody the company’s energy, sophistication and sheer joy in dancing. https://goguecenter.auburn.edu/bodytraffic/
February 20-March 1
Orlando
7:30 PM Telfair Peet Theatre, 350 W. Samford Ave. Auburn University Come see this spellbinding exploration of love, compassion, transformation, and the eternal search for belonging amidst a hostile world at the Telfair Peet Black Box Theatre on February 20 at 7:30 p.m. This captivating theatrical adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s classic novel, adapted by Sarah Ruhl and directed by Ashley Butler, explores themes of gender, identity, and the fluidity of time. Set across centuries, the play follows the journey of Orlando, a young nobleman who defies the constraints of society and embarks on an extraordinary quest for self-discovery. Orlando’s exploits, including a love affair with Queen Elizabeth I, result in hilarious self-reflective moments. cla.auburn.edu/theatre/productions/current-season/
Friday, February 21
Mann Museum Flashlight Tour / Family Fun Night Event
5:30 PM Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, Al A night featuring a flashlight tour of the Mann Museum, games, live animal presentations, and a whole lots more. Peer through the darkness and discover walls lined with animal pelts of the past, see several deer species nose to nose, and if you can bear it, just around that corner may be 10 foot Polar bear just waiting to meet you. Mann Museum Flashlight Tour is an educational program and family fun night with
hands-on experience, all sorts of adventure, and lots of fun. It is geared for boys and girls aged 5-12 years old, and their parents. Yes, parents, you are invited to join the fun too.
https://www.montgomeryzoo.com
February 21-22
The Birmingham Home Show
BJCC, 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd, Birmingham, Al A jam-packed roster featuring special guests and local experts on the Fresh Ideas Stage, the Hometown Flavor Cooking Stage with Magic City’s top chefs, plant workshops and the top local home improvement experts and products. Additional features include aisles filled with local Birmingham home improvement experts and products, photo ops and many other activities.
https://www.birminghamhomeshow.com/
February
21-March 2
Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds
12:30 PM Springer Opera House, 103 10th St. Columbus, Ga A jammin’ musical brings joy and delight to young audiences, featuring music and lyrics of Bob Marley and based on the children’s book by his daughter Cedella Marley. With catchy melodies and a heartwarming message about overcoming fears, Bob Marley’s “Three Little Birds” is a feel-good celebration that captivates audiences of all ages. Come along on the journey and embrace the spirit of unity and positivity that defines Marley’s music.
12:30 PM RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga Did you ever wonder how composers write such amazing music? This is your chance to find out! Join the CSO for a fun-filled, educational concert for children of all ages featuring the cleverly narrated Mr. Smith’s Composition that explores the many sounds and feelings a symphony orchestra can evoke. Soar high with the music of Superman and jump into hyperspace with the sounds of Star Wars in this unforgettable afternoon for the whole family!
https://rivercenter.showare.com/
Exile
7:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery Their most successful hit, “Kiss You All Over” spent four weeks at the top of Billboard’s pop chart in 1978. In the early 1980s Exile started to focus on country music. During their run on the country charts, Exile has successfully had ten No. 1 singles, including “I Don’t Want To Be A Memory” and “Give Me One More Chance.” The hit song “Kiss You All Over” was used in the 1996 Adam Sandler movie Happy Gilmore.
https://mpaconline.org/exile/
CSO: John Williams & Friends
7:30 PM RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga Immerse yourself in the epic worlds of the cinematic classics Star Wars, Superman, Harry Potter, and more as the CSO performs the music of film composers including John Williams! The award-winning film scores of Williams as well as James Horner’s Avatar Suite, Jerry Goldsmith’s Alien, and John Ottman’s X-Men 2: Suite are sure to create a nostalgic evening filled with heroism, adventure, and romance.
https://rivercenter.showare.com/
February 22-23
CSU Guitar Symposium
RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga The CSU Guitar Symposium is an annual event bringing together guitarists from around the world for education and artistic stimulation. This two-day festival consists of guest artist concerts, masterclasses, lectures, and an international competition, with divisions for middle school through professional levels.
https://rivercenter.showare.com/
Sunday, February 23
War Eagle Run Fest
7:00 AM 251 South Donahue Drive, Auburn Calling all runners! Lace up your shoes and prepare to Take Flight at the annual War Eagle Run Fest. Start your journey outside the iconic Jordan-Hare Stadium and experience the thrill of crossing the finish line on the 50-yard line surrounded by the Auburn community’s boundless energy and support.
The Expo will host multiple wedding venues, caterers, photographers, florist, hair/make experts, bridal boutiques and much more. Lots of dessert tastings and bridal give-a-ways.
www.unitedwaylakemartin.org/wedding-event-expo
Friday, February 28
Mean Mary in Concert at the Sundilla (Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, Foodies, and online. Admission at the door will be $25 and $15 for students.) 7:30 PM Sundilla Concert Series & Radio Hour, 450 E. Thach Avenue Auburn 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
Neil deGrasse Tyson: An Astrophysicist Goes to the Movies
7:30 PM RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga From Star Wars to Frozen to Armageddon, to The Titanic to The Martian. An entertaining and enlightening review of all the science that our favorite movies got wrong, combined with some of the stuff they got right. Incorporates the latest films as well as some classics that you may not have known had any science in them at all. https://rivercenter.showare.com/
February 28-March 8
Auburn Area Community Theatre Jr Performs “Shrek, Jr.” ($12/Adults, $10/Children, Seniors)
Jan Dempsey Commuity Art Center, Drake Ave, Auburn “Once upon a time, there was a little ogre named Shrek.” And thus begins the tale of an unlikely hero who finds himself on a life-changing journey alongside a wisecracking Donkey and a feisty princess along with zany fairytale characters we have all come to love. Join us as we go on this adventure with song and dance. AuburnACT.org.
Saturday, March 1
Mardi Gras Parade & Krewe Krawl
11:00 AM Downtown Auburn Get ready to let the good times roll as The Krewe De Tigris bring the spirit of Mardi Gras to the heart of downtown Auburn! Join
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us for a festive experience that captures the essence of this beloved tradition. In conjunction with the Mardi Gras parade, the Auburn Downtown Merchants Association will host the 6th annual Krewe Krawl. The Krewe Krawl will feature exclusive discounts and specials only to those who purchase a wristband. Enjoy specials, live music, the parade, and more at this entertainment district event. https://www.krewedetigris.com/parade
March 1-2
Zoo Weekend at the Montgomery Zoo Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Museum, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, Al Join us for a festival and carnival-like wild Saturday - Sunday at Zoo Weekend, our annual Spring fundraiser. This funfilled weekend at the Montgomery Zoo, enjoyed by generations and loved by all ages, will be filled with great music, two stages of live entertainment, games and prizes for the kids, inflatables and slides, rides, animal presentations and encounters, tons of yummy concessions, and fun, fun, fun!
https://www.montgomeryzoo.com/
Sunday, March 2
Omnium Circus: I’m Possible 3:00 PM Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 South College Street, Auburn Experience a fun-filled afternoon at The Gogue Performing Arts Center. Omnium Circus is a trailblazer in entertainment that promotes an active, inclusive culture in its performances. Omnium Circus: I’m Possible is a family-friendly spectacular featuring generations of multi-talented, multi-abled and culturally diverse performers that provides a truly one-of-a-kind, amazing experience for all audiences. https://goguecenter.auburn.edu/omnium-circus-impossible/
Friday, March 7
Sundilla presents Tim Grimm (Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, Foodies, and online. Admission at the door will be $25 and $15 for students.) 7:30 PM Sundilla Concert Series & Radio Hour, 450 E. Thach Avenue Auburn 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.
March 7-23
Jesus Christ Superstar Springer Opera House, 103 10th St. Columbus, Ga Faith, fame, and betrayal take center stage in one of the greatest stories ever told. This rock opera is set against the backdrop of an extraordinary and universally known story told entirely through song. “Jesus Christ Superstar” explores the personal relationships and struggles between Jesus, Judas, Mary Magdalene, his disciples, and the Roman Empire. https://www.springeroperahouse.org/springerproductions/jesus-christ-superstar
Tuesday, March 11
Family Discovery Hike
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/
Sleeping Beauty
7:30 PM RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga Classical Arts Entertainment presents an enchanting performance of the timeless ballet classic Sleeping Beauty, showcasing the exquisite artistry of The State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine. Prepare to be transported to a world of magic, romance, and breathtaking dance as this renowned company graces the stage. https://rivercenter.showare.com/
Wednesday, March 12
The Sleeping Beauty
7:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery Experience the most famous love story of all time! Sleeping Beauty, on its North American Tour in 2024-25. With a completely new choreography and production by Andrei Litvinov, the classical score by Tchaikovsky comes to life in this performance by The State Ballet Theater of Ukraine. https://mpaconline.org/the-sleeping-beauty/
Thursday, March 20
Kodo
7:00 PM The Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 S College St, Auburn Experience Kodo at The Gogue Performing Art Center on March 20 at 7:00 p.m. Exploring the limitless possibilities of the traditional Japanese drum, the taiko, Kodo is forging new directions for a vibrant, living art form. In Japanese, the name “Kodo” conveys two meanings: firstly, “heartbeat,” the primal source of all rhythm; and, secondly, “children of the drum,” a reflection of Kodo’s desire to play the drums simply, with the heart of a child. https://goguecenter.auburn.edu/kodo/
March 25-26
Mamma Mia
7:00 PM The Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 S College St, Auburn Set on a Greek island paradise where the sun always shines, a tale of love, friendship and identity is beautifully told through the timeless hits of ABBA. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the father she’s never known brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited decades ago. For nearly 25 years, people all around the world have fallen in love with the characters, the story and the music that make MAMMA MIA! the ultimate feel-good show. https://goguecenter.auburn.edu/mamma-mia/
Wednesday, March 26
The American Spiritual Ensemble presented by East Alabama Arts
7:30 PM 1700 North LaFayette Pkwy, Opelika The American Spiritual Ensemble, a collection of finely trained classical singers, is dedicated to keeping the American Negro spiritual alive. Founded by Dr. Everett McCorvey, a Montgomery native and University of Alabama graduate, the ASE is known for its dynamic repertoire, ranging from spirituals to classical, jazz, and Broadway, while highlighting the Black experience. https://www.eastalabamaarts.org/
March 27-30
Opelika Songwriters Festival
Downtown Opelika Opelika Songwriters Festival is an intimate festival that attracts die-hard music lovers from around the Southeast. Over 30 singer songwriters travel from across the country to play over 80 shows in 7 venues throughout Historic Opelika. https://opelikasongwritersfestival.com/
Saturday, March 29
Water Cycle 2025
Pioneer Park, 6500 Stage Road, Loachapoka Join The Auburn University Student Chapter of Engineers Without Boarders for Water Cycle 2025! The Water Cycle is a cycling event featuring a 30 and 60 mile gravel race, as well as a 15 mile fun ride. The routes go through Alabama’s beautiful countryside, starting and ending at Pioneer Park where there will be food, music, and games after the race. All proceeds from this event directly support drinking water and irrigation projects in Guatemala and Bolivia. https://support.ewb-usa.org/event/auburn-universitychapter-water-cycle-2025/e618677
Every Tuesday 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 story time at 10 a.m., and help feed our resident goats! www.facebook.com/opelikagrows
Every 1st and 3rd Friday of every month
Food Truck Friday
5:00 PM - 11:00 PM,, Downtown Opelika Food Truck Friday is an award-winning event of the Opelika Chamber. Hosted in downtown Opelika on various Friday nights throughout the year, the Opelika Chamber welcomes food trucks, live music, vendors, and thousands of visitors who dine, drink, and enjoy the community atmosphere. Enjoy your brews, bites, and beautiful downtown Opelika. Check out the Opelika Chamber of Commerce on Facebook to find out who will be parked where, and what’s on the menu! Ali@opelikachamber.com
Every Saturdays
Market Days on Broadway
9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Uptown Columbus, 25 West 10th Street, Columbus, Ga Each Saturday, three blocks along Broadway host over 100 local and regional vendors. Visitors can expect to find fresh and organic produce, home goods, jewelry, unique crafts, and delicious baked goods. https://www.alwaysuptown.com/market-days
Second Saturday of every month
Second Saturday at Pioneer Park
9:00 AM - 12:30 PM, 6500 Stage Road, Loachapoka, Al On the second Saturday of every month, a group of history re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts. Blacksmiths are working at the forge, spinners and weavers are in the textile room, the gardeners are in the gardens, crafts and seasonal activities are scheduled, and someone is always cooking up a meal in the fireplace or outdoors.
Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.
The Opelika SportsPlex and Aquatics Center is more than just a gym. In fact, you might call it a “Life Enhancement Center”. Here you can enhance your health, fulfill your fitness goals, enlarge your life and fraternize with fun folks from the community. From basketball to racquetball, pickleball to disc golf, swimming pool to splash park, cardio to weights, indoor and outdoor tracks for walking to running, there are facilities, equipment and activities to get you fired up! Join now and get involved. Come be a part of the Opelika SportsPlex family.
Julianne McGill
AOP: Your husband is a 2012 Olympic Gold Medalist for Swimming, and you both swam competitively. With both of your children being active in swim, what type of support do you two offer them?
JM: We have talked about this a lot. Since we both swam, we didn’t want to force them to swim; we wanted to provide them an opportunity because we believe it is a great sport that builds a supportive community. They ended up loving it and choosing to do it for themselves. Tyler isn’t their main coach at the moment, so we encourage them to talk to their coaches and focus on being positive and supportive rather than corrective or suggestive. That can be harder to do since we know about the sport pretty deeply.
AOP: What values do you and Tyler prioritize in your parenting?
JM: The first thing that comes to mind is giving our best effort. We emphasize they don’t have to be the best at whatever they are doing, but they do have to put their best effort into it. Another value that comes to mind that we prioritize is gratefulness – grateful for what we have been blessed with, the opportunities we are presented with, and the people around us.
AOP: How do you both work to create a positive and supportive community for your family?
JM: Honestly, sports have been a big part of building our family’s community. Some of our closest friends are from our time swimming on Auburn’s team. They are kind, generous, and inclusive. There have been many times I will miss the start of a swim meet because I am traveling for work, and the families just take such great care of the girls until I get there since Tyler is coaching hard at the meets. Similarly, with Tenny’s soccer team, we love sitting on the sidelines with other parents and siblings cheering on the girls. It is fun to stay with other soccer families at an Airbnb when we travel for tournaments. I would say volunteering in your children’s activities is so important and helps connect you to others.
AOP: Your children are 11 and 7 years old. How do you handle the transition of them growing up?
JM: Am I handling it? I am laughing to myself because I am kind of shocked that we have an 11- and 7-year-old. People have told us “It gets easier” and I don’t know if that is fully accurate. Maybe “it gets different” is more what they mean. New challenges arise at each stage and keeping that in perspective has been helpful for us.
AOP: What has been the most rewarding experience so far during your motherhood journey?
JM: It is so rewarding to see them feel proud of themselves for working hard and achieving a goal. Amelia made Southeastern’s (a big regional swim meet) by setting a goal and chipping away at the time. She glowed with excitement when she got it! Tenny trying to be a goalie at the end-of-year tournament, blocking a penalty kick, and getting the player of the game from the other team was so fun to watch. She tried something new and was so excited to do it again! Little moments in sports give them those opportunities to give their best efforts and maybe fail, but to keep trying and shining.
AOP: What advice would you give other parents who are navigating their parenting journey?
JM: My first inclination was to say enjoy it because it goes by fast, but that feels super cliché (although still true). So, I am going to say parenting is hard – it is supposed to be. If it feels too easy, you may want to assess what is going on. Keeping our kids safe, which means setting boundaries they don’t like and holding them accountable, is the most important thing to us, but also incredibly hard at times.
Also, this is important to me, maybe because of the work that I do, but keeping a focus on our marriage is really helpful for Tyler and me. First, it gives our girls an example of what prioritizing a healthy marriage looks like, and second, when Tyler and I are regularly connected, it is so clear we are fully on the same team and can better parent Amelia and Tenny.
AOP: What is one thing you want your children to remember about you?
JM: There is never a moment when you are not loved. I am always there if they want or need me – I have got their backs!
Rapid Fire Questions
1. Introverted or Extroverted? Extroverted introvert
2. Movie Buff or Book Lover? Book lover
3. Favorite Vacation Spot? London
4. Facebook or Instagram? Instagram
5. Sweet or Salty? Sweet
Julianne McGill and her husband, Tyler, have been married for 13 years. They met at Auburn, where they both swam on the Swimming & Diving teams. The family enjoys attending Cornerstone Church, watching sports on TV (especially football and F1 racing), and traveling. Julianne is a clinical faculty member in the Human Development and Family Science department at Auburn University, and Tyler is the swim coach at the Opelika Sportsplex and was a 2012 USA Olympic gold medalist. They have two daughters, Amelia (11) and Tennant Lane (7).
