Auburn-Opelika Parents "Big Birthday Issue" (July 23)

Birthdays have always been a favorite time for me to plan something for my special birthday child that’s creative and remembered all year. From mer maids under the sea and jungle safaris under the trees to sweet sixteen candy themes and laser tags in the dark, party planning for my kids has always been my thing. I love choosing the perfect idea and bringing it to life to honor their turning another year older. Of course, in the planning, there are always some bumps in the road. However, in this month’s edition, we have featured local businesses that ca ter to birthday and event planning, including places to host your party, rental equipment and bounce houses, cupcakes and catering options, and party decorations.

In the Birthday Party Planning Guide, you will find something to spark a new party idea for your kids this year. Consider a fun fitness party for your energetic bunch at KidStrong Auburn or an evening of old-school arcade gaming at Rockn-Roll Pinball in Opelika. How about a nature-themed party for your budding horticulturist and nature lover at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center? Choose from one of their many themes, like Radical Reptiles and Art in Nature. Need something for your teens? Check out Buff City Soap in Auburn, where your party guests can mix and make their own bath bombs. With so many great party op tions for all ages, you are sure to plan a perfect birthday party this year!

In our feature article, Hosting a Charitable Birthday Party, the author reminds us that teaching children about giving doesn’t have to only happen around the holiday season. Giving back to our community and those less fortunate can be taught, experienced, and modeled all year. This year, while planning for gather ings and events that celebrate birthdays, take a moment to consider a lesson in gratitude and giving as part of your party plan. For me, the gifts that used to pile up became overwhelming. Of course, our birthday child would love a gift to celebrate turning a year older, but planning to give back might be just as wonderful. The author mentions planning a jungle safari party and including a table for crafting small pet toys to donate to the Lee County Humane Society. Or, if hosting a cooking or baking birthday, ask for canned goods and nonperishable foods instead of toys and then donate to the Food Bank of East Alabama or a local church food pantry. There are so many local, regional, and international or ganizations to bless; it just takes thinking about a unique party theme that might match a charity and its needs.

Here’s to party planning this year. Think outside the birthday box, get cre ative while celebrating your special someone, and maybe consider a project to give back.

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

by Works of Wonder Therapy www.worksofwondertherapy.com

Tips for Teaching Your Child Anything

Simply telling your child what you want them to do and walking away is not an effective teaching strategy. You can’t “talk” your child into learning a new skill. The most effective teaching strategy is to do it with them and then have them practice. Research has repeatedly proven that the only way we all learn is through practice, practice, practice.

Prompting is the most important tool in teaching your child a new skill. Prompting is the action of persuading, encouraging, or reminding. There are four main types of prompting: verbal, gestural, visual, and hand over hand.

1. Verbal prompting is standing beside your child while they are doing the task and telling them what to do next.

2. Gestural prompting is when you point or act out the behavior to help your child know what to do next.

3. Visual prompting includes pictures, visual schedules, written lists, etc. An example of this is putting a list of the process of getting ready on their bathroom mirror.

4. Hand-over-hand prompting is when you take your child’s hands in yours and do what you want to see. For example, if you are asking your child which car is blue, you would touch the car with his hand while saying, “This car is blue.” This approach is invaluable because it negates any language barriers, provides an opportunity for the child to get the right answer and earn praise, and it encourages the child to comply.

Shaping is the next tool. Shaping is simply reinforcing small accomplishments towards the skill you are trying to teach. For example, let’s say your goal is that your child sits at the dinner table

until the end of the meal. Shaping starts exactly where the child is. If your child walks around eating and has never been forced to sit at the dinner table, start there. Shape the behavior by putting them in the chair for 10 seconds, praise them for sitting, and then let them return to walking around. After a short time, do this again. If 10 seconds occurred without any extreme frustration, you can move up to 15 seconds and then 20 seconds. The next day, you increase the time and continue shaping until your child can sit through the meal. We always begin shaping from where the child will be successful, so if 10 seconds is too long, start at 5 seconds. If that is too long, start with sitting in the chair. No matter how your child behaves, praise them for trying, even if they are angry. If you praise what you want to see, your child will do it again willingly.

I can’t talk about prompting or shaping without conveying the importance of precursor skills. Precursor skills must be mastered before you can move to something more complex. For example, if your child can’t write her name, make sure she has the precursor skills of holding a pencil, writing on paper, writing letters, and attending long enough to write her entire name. We strongly encourage parents to think through the precursor skills a child needs before working towards a goal. Oth erwise, you are setting your child up for failure and frustration.

Practice makes progress, but effective practice must include starting where they are, prompting when necessary, and shaping complex skills.

Tropic Falls is the tropical getaway with something for everybody! One ticket includes 23 theme park rides, the region’s biggest indoor water park and the all-new Big Water Bay wave pool complete with Coastal Curl surf simulator! Now you can enjoy it all and save more with the Family 4 Pack! Save $49.96 on four general admission tickets for a limited time—get all the details at VisitOWA.com!

THRILL, THEN CHILL.

Opelika Freedom Celebration: July 3

Join the Opelika Parks & Recreation and Opelika community at the Freedom Celebration at Opelika High School on July 2nd! This event is packed full of fun including seeing the Silver Wings Parachute Team, music by Route 66, concessions, and a firework show at dark. There will be hamburgers, hotdogs, popcorn, musical entertainment and activities for the whole family. Opelika High School, 1700 LaFayette Pkwy, Opelika. 6:30-9:30pm. Thank you to our community partners: The Orthopedic Clinic and the Kiwanis Club of Opelika. www.opelika-al.gov/749/freedom-celebration

Summer Swing: James Brown Trio

Come out early to Opelika’s Municipal Park, on July 18, 7:00pm! Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the bank of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation. Food vendors available. Free. www.opelikaal.gov/746/Summer-Swing

Summer Film Series ‘National Treasure’: July 13

Nothing completes a summertime movie celebration quite like an action-packed blockbuster, right? Our 2023 Summer Film Series concludes with the edge-of-your-seat adventure National Treasure. In National Treasure, a historian races to find the legendary Templar Treasure before a team of mercenaries. All 2023 Summer Film Series screenings are free and open to the public. Registration is required. Gogue Center for the Performing Arts, 910 South College Street, Auburn. Amphitheatre gates open at 6 p.m.; activities begin at 6:15 p.m.; film starts at 7 p.m. Food trucks will be on-site. Guests are welcome to bring blankets, cushions and lawn chairs. No outside food, beverages or pets are permitted. For more information on our 2023 Summer Film Series, contact the Gogue Center box office at 334.844.TIXS (8497).

Auburn Independence Day Celebration: July 4

Celebrate Independence Day with the entire Auburn Community. En joy great food and treats for pur chase while listening to amazing music from a live band and D.J. Free inflatables. Special Guest Aubie. Families are encouraged to drive to Duck Samford Sta dium, 1840 East Glenn Avenue, Duck Samford and Bo Cavin Baseball fields, 333 Airport Rad for parking. The fireworks will be set off in a centrally located area, the old water tower site on East University Drive, next to Duck Samford Park. Duck Samford Baseball Fields 1-3, 1720 East University Drive will be closed to the public to accommodate the fireworks shoot site. Gates open at 5:00 p.m. - Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/4th-of-July/

Lake Martin Songwriter’s Festival

Various locations in Dadeville and Alexander City, July 26-30. The multi-day songwriter’s festival features over 20 artists, including Charlie Argo, Kensie Coppin, Claire Cunningham, Goldpine, William Michael Morgan, Keith Stegall, Kyle Wilson and more! They will be featured at multiple venues ranging from intimate listening rooms to spacious outdoor stages all around Alabama’s Treasured Lake, Lake Martin, such as Chuck’s, The Local at 41 Main, Russell Crossroads, Niffers at the Lake, Wind Creek State Park and more! www.lakemartinsongwritersfestival.com

Alabama Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday: July 21-23

18th annual sales tax holiday for school-related items begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 21, 2023, and ends at midnight Sunday, July 23, 2023, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, books and clothing free of the state’s four percent sales or use tax. www.alabamaretail.org/ resources/salestaxholidays/back-to-school/

Tracy Byrd with Jo Dee Messina on July 21

Tracy Byrd became a household name on the Country Music Scene in 1993 when his third single, called “Holdin’ Heaven”, off of his MCA Records, self-titled debut album, hit #1 on the Billboard Country Charts. The Album also included the remake hit of Johnny Paycheck’s “Someone to Give my Love to” cementing Byrd as a Traditional Country Troubadour! The Debut Album went on to be certified Gold, an award signifying sale in excess of 500,000 copies. Sweetland Amp, 100 Smith Street, LaGrange Ga. 6:30pm. Visit www.sweetlandamp.com/events/tracybyrd-with-jo-dee-messina/

AG Heritage Park Farmer’s Market

925 Camp Auburn Road, Auburn University. 3:006:00pm. Hosted by the College of Agriculture, The Market features area vendors offering fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, herbs, ornamental plants and cut flowers as well as locally produced jams and jellies, baked goods, soaps, honey, goat cheese and more. Dates are July 6, 13, 20, 27. Vendors change weekly based on produce availability. Vendors this year include Granite Knoll Farms from Waverly; Well’s Produce from Cottonwood; Macy’s Favorites Dog Treats from Auburn; Paradise Plants from Opelika; Leo’s Produce from Tallassee; Hale Farms from Clanton; Jimmy Dykes “The Corn Man” from Beulah; Longshore Farms goats’ milk and soaps; Pulliam Farms from Lafayette; AL Hooks Produce from Shorter; Flowers to Bless from Lafayette; Maywick Candles from Valley; Lee County Master Gardeners; and the Cake Lady. In total, nearly 30 different vendors are present through the summer. www.agriculture.auburn.edu/outreach/ag-heritage-park/the-market/

Family Discovery Hikes at Kreher: Pollinators

Join the monthly guided hikes through the Kreher forest, on July 11 at 3:30pm. Hikes offer excellent opportunities for the entire family to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Free –donations are welcomed and we will meet at the covered pavilion. Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. 2222 North College Street, Auburn. www.wp.auburn.edu/preserve/events/

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Cornerstone Family Chiropractic

Mom, Baby and Birth

There is nothing quite as miraculous as birth. All the planning and prep has brought parents to this moment, and it’s hard to put into words how it feels. You’re happy, proud, and a little nervous about this new responsibility but excited about caring for someone beyond yourself.

One of the things we advocate from the start of chiropractic care at Cornerstone Family Chiropractic is having adult practice members bring their families and children in for regular spinal evaluations. Stressors can occur as early as birth, as noted in a recent study by Grimm from Bioengineering for Women’s Health (2021).

For example, during pregnancy, the “round ligaments” keep the mom’s uterus in proper orientation. During birthing, the round ligaments contribute to the advancement of the fetus down into the pelvis during contractions. An imbalance in these ligaments negatively affects the mom’s ability to deliver an effective contraction. During dilation, force is key; more force equates to a successful vaginal birth. Less force correlates with a higher chance of c-section, greatly increasing stressors on both mom and baby.

Chiropractic offices with Webster Certified doctors are trained to evaluate the round ligaments and treat imbalances.

For baby, Towbin was the first to note how stressors from the birthing process can affect the spinal cord and brainstem, both vital regions for human function and development. A lot weighs into the birth stress: mom’s health, baby’s positioning, baby’s size, interventions, etc. You need force in a birth, but imbalance is a key cause of injury. Grimm cited a case where 18.9 lbs of contractile force resulted in a nervous system injury in the baby’s neck and arm. For reference, the low end of a vacuum-extractor birth is 26.5 lbs. A c-section birth is even higher. Delivery by hand, even during difficult labor, averages at 15 lbs, but it is essential to note the range of this average was between 7lbs and 30 lbs of force on baby’s head and neck.

One of my mentors in chiropractic school (we’ll call him Dr. Todd) had the honor of helping deliver his first baby boy. The obstetrician on the team noted a problem; the baby had a blue coloration on several spots and shallow breathing. The baby was not getting enough oxygen. The birthing team prepped for additional testing, and Dr. Todd,

as frightened as he was, felt compelled to do a spinal analysis on his son. He did find a misalignment in the atlas bone, the highest bone of the neck and spine. It is presumed the misaligned atlas bone was affecting a region of the brainstem called the medulla. One of the medulla’s functions is controlling breathing rate, so breathing could reasonably be affected if stressed. Dr. Todd made a gentle chiropractic adjustment to his son, and amazingly, his son’s oxygen levels and breathing improved. One of the nurses, who witnessed this normalization, said, “Well, he seems alright now,” and then proceeded with the team to the next birth.

Dr. Todd’s son recently finished high school and plays football at his college. It was a needed adjustment to the spine that changed the trajectory of his son’s life, and it is our mission to achieve this for as many people as possible.

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

Autauga County Schools

AHS Golf Wins 2nd Place

The Auburn High School Boys and Girls Golf teams came in second place during the State Championship tournament at Grand National! Will Stelt and Kate Ha were the Low Medalist for AHS, scoring 142 and 143, respectively, over the two rounds of play. ACS congratulates these young men and women for representing AHS so well on and off the links!

LSA Students Learn Figurative Language

Students in 4th grade ended their school year in language arts by creating figurative language books on idioms, similes, hyperboles, onomatopoeia, personification, and alliteration.

The students dressed up as an example of figurative language and partnered with 1st grade students to teach them a new skill. First graders even created their own figurative language poster. The day ended with a bunch of 1st grade “smartie” pants after being treated with some Smarties!

J.F. Drake Middle Students Write Pen Pals in Africa

J. F. Drake Middle Schoolers in Mrs. Flanagan’s class received some long-awaited mail today. replies from their pen pals in Africa. The class first wrote to them in September and got replies in December. When they wrote back the second time in January, the students were hopeful for replies before school got out in May. “I have enjoyed Samson as my pen pal. He has taught me so much about his home, and what it is like to live there. Samson has told me about some problems in his home, and what they are doing to solve them. I hope that one day I will get to meet him in person,” explained Madi Grace Weaver, DMS 6th grader.

The African students attend schools sponsored by the William Holden Wildlife Foundation. The WHWF was founded in 1982 by actress Stefanie Powers in memory of her longtime love, actor William Holden. Since it’s opening, the main education center has served nearly 11,000 students annually. The WHWF Education Center offers education programs, lectures, field trips, camping and practical displays of sustainable farming, cooking, composting and bio-energy. Courses are designed to serve both urban and rural communities. The rural outreach program serves 7 locations in remote areas of central Kenya, serving an additional 6,000 students and their families through renovated schools, fully equipped libraries, and visiting lecturers to support government curricula. The students are learning to read and write in English which is why the Pen Pal program was developed. The Drake Students were invited to participate in the pen pal program by Ms. Powers who is a friend of the Media Aide at Drake, Kathy Hughes. “She called and said she had a favor to ask,” Hughes said, “I presented it to the Language Arts teachers, and they immediately jumped on the opportunity.

OHS Student Signs with Southern Union

Congratulations to OHS Senior MeKhiron Brock on signing a basketball scholarship to Southern Union State Community College!

Opelika Band Receives Superior Ratings at OrlandoFest

Opelika Middle School traveled to Orlando, FL to compete in the OrlandoFest competition. OMS Beginning Band, 8th Grade Band, and Percussion Ensemble all received Superior ratings and 1st place in their categories. The Percussion Ensemble received the highest award given of the weekend, the Grand Champion, beating out all bands, choirs, and ensembles in both middle and high school categories that performed. Congratulations also to Lucas Duncan on receiving the Outstanding Soloist Award for his marimba solo in the percussion ensemble performance! We are so proud of the OMS band members and directors!

Fueling Up on History at J.F. Drake Middle

DMS hosted the fifth annual Driving Through the Decades car show with 54 vehicles spanning 100 years, ranging from a Model-T Ford to a Mustang Mach-E! The event was a culminating unit for social studies curriculum, and even though a DeLorean was on display, students didn’t need it to time travel. This car show was an opportunity for students to learn about different automobiles and more about the decade in which they were produced, thus becoming an impactful approach to connect with history. Car owners from local clubs participating in this show also enjoyed sharing their knowledge with students during the event. Driving Through the Decades is the brainchild of Social Studies Teacher Beverly Helm and local car enthusiast Tom Spicer, with the goal of offering a visual and tangible way to bring history alive for students.

Autauga County Schools

AHS Students Receive Scholarships

Auburn High School had the privilege of hosting two more signings at Auburn High School!

Ja’Keith Carr - Signed with Shelton State Community College to play basketball.

Davaioun (DV) Williams - Signed with Central Georgia Technical College to play football. ACS congratulates these young men for committing to further their education while continuing to compete in the sport they love!

St. Michael Catholic Hosts Fine Arts Night

It was a great night supporting students that performed in their first Fine Arts Night. As our principal, Mrs. Brooks shared, “participation in the arts builds confidence, it builds problem solving and critical thinking skills, and it allows them to create in a world that is mostly created for them.” We are so proud of their courage in trying new things, like playing ukuleles. We celebrated our teachers tonight, grateful for their planting seeds in our students’ lives. Students were so excited to share their creations with family and friends, and everyone left with hearts overflowing. We are grateful to donors like Mrs. Judkins and Mrs. Leslie Winter, Country Financial, for supporting the art programs at St. Michael Catholic School.

J.F. Drake Middle Receives Award

J.F. Drake Middle School received a Capturing Kids’ Hearts National Showcase Schools Award! Because of the rigor of the evaluation process, this award is both a high aspiration and an exemplary recognition of excellence. Auburn City School is proud to celebrate the outstanding educators at DMS who have dedicated themselves to making a difference in the lives of children. Capturing Kids’ Hearts (CKH) is a premier source of professional development for educators across the country. Through experiential training, expert coaching, a character-based curriculum for students, and personalized support, CKH equips professionals in K-12 education to implement a transformational process focused on fostering student connectedness and growing a relationship-driven culture while improving academic, behavioral, and cultural outcomes.

Trinity Christian Students Perform Tom Sawyer

Sixth Grade students at Trinity Christian School learned about and read the classic novel, “Tom Sawyer”. Once they completed this novel, they presented the story.

Fiesta Day at Cary Woods Elementary

As the 20222023 school year came to a close, Cary Woods Elementary School held its end-of-the-year celebration earlier today! Donning bright-colored tie-dye shirts, students in grades K-2 enjoyed playing games, creating crafts, and blowing bubbles outside with their classmates, teachers, and parents. Auburn City Schools congratulates these young students for their progress in the classroom and hope they enjoyed the special treat of “Fiesta Day!”

Please send school news to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com!

LSA Band Celebrates Year with Banquet

It was a wonderful night at the 2023 LSA Band Banquet celebrating all of the success they have had and reminiscing on fun times from this year. From those just beginning their time in the LSA Band to those departing after 7 years, each was recognized tonight for their hard work and commitment. Thanks to the LSA Marching Band, Concert Band, Jazz Band, Beginner Band, Mr. Hudson, LSA Dance Team and Mrs. Starr for giving us another incredible year showcasing their talents!

Autauga County Schools

ACS May Board Meeting Recognitions

During the May 2023 ACS Board of Education Meeting, students, employees, and the Board President were honored! Before the official meeting began, several employees were presented with service pins for their 20, 25, and 30 years of service in Auburn City Schools, in addition to celebrating recent retirees. The agenda featured the bittersweet observance of Dr. Bill Hutto’s retirement from serving on the Board, having dedicated the past ten years to making a meaningful impact on ACS with his leadership, expertise, and passion for the school system. Auburn High School’s Dr. Sara Ahnell was recognized for being named the Southern Conference on Language Teaching Alabama Teacher of the Year. Auburn Junior High School’s Mallory Kincaid was recognized for being named the 2023 Assistant Principal of the Year by the Alabama Association of Secondary School Principals. AHS Mass Media was recognized for recent state and national awards, including America’s Best High School Television Station. The Auburn High School Boys and Girls Tennis teams were recognized for their success at the State Tournament, including the girls securing an AHSAA 7A State Championship, their second in three years.

Trinity Christian Present Concert

Students in the choral program and the band presented their end of the year performance for family

Jeter Primary Teacher Awarded During Teacher Appreciation Week

The Opelika Chamber presented the winner of our Teacher Appreciation Week “favorite teacher” competition her prize. Ecameron Dowdell is a kindergarten teacher at Jeter Primary School. Those that nominated her said it is because she “sets the kids up for success” and “treats her kids as her own, truly loves them, and wants the best for them”. We are thankful to have educators like Ecameron in our community. Thank you for all you do for OCS.

AHS Soccer and Golf Teams Head for State

Auburn High School hosted a send-off for Soccer and Golf teams as they embark on their journey to compete for 2023 AHSAA Class 7A State Championships! The Varsity Girls Soccer team advanced to the Final Four in Huntsville, where they took on the Fairhope Pirates for a chance to play for a State Championship. The girls beat Dothan 4-1 to have this opportunity to secure a Blue Map trophy. The Boys and Girls Golf teams both advanced to the State Championship tournament. Both teams finished 2nd at Sub-State in Mobile, where the boys had a team score of 298 and the girls 239. Connor Jones and Kate Ha had the Auburn High low rounds with scores of 73 and 72, respectively.

Lee-Scott Students Create Art Portfolios

In art enrichment, second grade students learned how to create a digital art portfolio. They took pictures of art pieces created throughout the year and uploaded them to their digital portfolio for friends and family to be able to view. Students in grades 2nd - 6th uploaded their own art pieces to a digital portfolio while Mrs. Beard uploaded art for Pre-K through 1st grade students.

Academic Signing Day for OHS

Congratulations to all the OHS Seniors on signing academic and performing arts scholarships. These graduates will attend two and four year colleges and universities. We are so proud of you!

: Mississippi State University Auburn University Montgomery

Dr. Farrell Seymore Receives Award

Congratulations to Dr. Farrell Seymore on receiving the 2023 Auburn University College of Education Outstanding Alumni Award! Dr. Seymore was presented with the award at a recognition ceremony at Auburn University. Congratulations Dr. Seymore!

Autauga County Schools

Senior Sunrise for AHS Graduates

Auburn High School held a sunrise send-off for graduate candidates in the Class of 2023. With birds chirping and daylight creeping through the trees, this student-led initiative took place in the courtyard at AHS with guest speakers that included words of encouragement from ACS Superintendent Dr. Cristen Herring, Lexie Pegues (AHS Class of 2020) representing the D1 Life Foundation, and Mayor Ron Anders (AHS Class of 1982) as the keynote. They reflected on their experiences in ACS and encouraged students to embrace the now while working toward the future.

Opelika City Congratulates Retirees

Congratulations to the 2022-23 OCS Retirees. The Board of Education honored its retirees with a reception at Jeter Primary School. Pictured (l-r) Tricia Skelton, John Gullatte, Teresa Brackin, Perry Outlaw, Lindie Payne, Mike McKee, Marta Harper, Matthew Kendrick, Lodene Core, and Minnie Douglas. Not pictured-Paula Burch and Tanya Brown. Thank you for your many years of service and dedication to the students of Opelika City Schools!

Please

AHS Students Get Real World Experience This Summer

Auburn Opelika Habitat for Humanity (AOHFH) has partnered with Auburn High School’s Career Tech Program to create internship opportunities this summer for three students through the Work BasedLearning Program (WBL)!

Andrew Faircloth and Lucy Zuniga are social media interns, and Jacob Powell is a construction intern. Andrew is a rising junior, and Lucy is a rising senior. They will manage AOHFH’s social media channels while assisting with grant writing and other related tasks. Jacob is a rising senior, and he will be able to do hands-on residential construction work alongside staff, volunteers, and future homeowners. The Auburn High School Building Construction program, led by Auburn High School Building Construction teacher, Jessica Bowlin, teaches high school students the techniques of framing and building homes each semester. This program gives students experience framing walls, doors, windows, and roof systems. Auburn Opelika Habitat partners with Mrs. Bowlin and her students each year as they use their skills to build the 8x10 storage buildings for each Habitat home. Audrey Marshall, Auburn High School Work-Based Learning (WBL) Coordinator and former Habitat Secretary, partners regularly with Habitat for Humanity through the WBL program, which aims to place certified career and technical education students in specific industry areas, having partnered with numerous businesses locally to help secure hundreds of job placements for students!

Lee-Scott Academy Welcomes James Spann

ABC 33/40 Chief Meteorologist James Spann paid a visit to the sixth grade. After a whole year talking and learning about different kinds of weather, hearing his expertise and passion was a very special treat. Madelyn Baker even baked her very own weather cake to welcome Mr. Spann to LSA! Thank you to Mr. James Spann for giving his time and coming each year to educate our students further!

St. Michael Catholic Had a Field Day

The end-of-the-year was celebrated during the SMCS’s field day. Some sweet memories were shared among our big kids and for the last day of school for our Early Learning

LSA Students Win at Computer Science Competition

The AISA State Computer Science Competition was held at Vaughn Forest Church in Montgomery. Upper School students Davis MacIsaac, Aisha Roughton, and Kimberly Simmons all won awards for their projects in varying categories! Congratulations to each on such hard work being rewarded!

- Davis MacIsaac: 1st Place, Non-Multimedia

- Aisha Roughton: 1st Place, Computer Graphics

- Kimberly Simmons: 2nd Place, Multimedia

Autauga County Schools

Super Bowl Showdown at LSA

After learning rules and how to play flag football in PE, the top 5th grade team and the top 6th grade team met for a Super Bowl showdown on the track field today! The 6th grade team was victorious in a 29-6 win!

Character In Action

Lee County Family Court Judge Mike Fellows honored four Auburn City Schools students with the Character in Action (CIA) award! Inman Moore, a sixth grader at J.F. Drake Middle School, was recognized for his empathetic approach toward his desk mate.

“Inman is a fine, respectable young man with a big, caring heart. Inman’s desk mate is one of our ELL students who began the school year with a minimal understanding of English. Inman has been a great help and friend to his desk mate. Inman is always patient, giving help when needed but not making a big deal about it or bringing attention to this student’s struggles. Inman is a bright young man who makes sure that all those around him feel seen and good about themselves. He wrote thoughtful, kind words for affirmation day to each of his homeroom teammates. His positive contributions to the Panther Team at Drake go above and beyond everyday expectations.” – Traci Curry, a Panther Teacher at DMS.

Ethan Sawyer, a fifth grader at Yarbrough Elementary School, was recognized for tutoring his classmates. “Ethan comes to my classroom every morning before school starts to help those struggling in math. Students know they can come early and are comfortable working with Ethan. He has helped one peer move from an “F” in math to a “C” and is always encouraging those students needing a boost of confidence.” – Katie Lindsey, a fifth-grade teacher at YES. Annie Lang, a Kindergartener at Cary Woods Elementary School, was recognized as a good friend.” Each day, Annie goes above and beyond at school. She is like a mini teacher. Annie has the biggest heart and loves to help others. When a friend is crying, she is the first one there. Not only does she want to help them, but she also wants to understand the problem to help them solve it. For example, we recently had a friend who began crying at the end of center time. While others thought the friend was crying because they were not ready to clean up, Annie held their hand and talked them through what was wrong. It turns out they were sad because they accidentally tore their artwork. Annie showed them how to tape the tear and said that next time, all they have to do is ask someone for help, and they won’t get sad. For a kindergarten student to be able to do this is outstanding! This is only one example, but Annie does things like this almost daily. I am blown away by her commitment to problem-solving, teaching while helping her peers, and her heart for others.” – Meaghan Kimbrell, a Kindergarten Teacher at CWES.

Trip Yordy, a sixth grader at J.F. Drake Middle School, was recognized for his positive attitude.” Trip is a true gentleman. He is courteous, respectful, hard-working, and kind. He excels academically but is so humble and helpful to others. Trip serves as a peer tutor for math. He is always willing to lend a hand. He regularly asks teachers if he can do anything to assist them. Trip also takes the initiative to complete a task or help a fellow student without being asked. He has faced significant loss through the passing of his father and has not only learned to persevere over these last few years, but he has also flourished.” – Jenna Chapman, a Cosmic Cat Teacher at DMS.

Congrats to The Oaks School’s Graduates

These little minds blossomed over this past school year, and their hard work was celebrated at our Kindergarten Graduation Ceremony.

TCS Graduates 2023

Congratulations to the Senior Class or 2023. Trinity Christian School family is so very proud of your hard work, accomplishments, and plans for your future.

artworks was featured at the 3rd Annual Opelika City Schools Superintendent’s Art Show. Artwork from students in grades K-12 was showcased.

OHS Senior Receives Baseball Scholarship

Congratulations to OHS Senior Taylor Fields on signing a baseball scholarship to Chattahoochee Valley Community College.

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Autauga County Schools

SMCS Students Learn About Chickens

Dr. Whitehead, a SMCS parent, brought chicken eggs in an incubator to talk about how chickens are born! “Candling” is the method she uses to check on the growth of the babies. Students were able to watch them hatch (yes, actively catching some in the moment!) and got to hold them before they went back home. Thank

LSA 3rd Graders Learn Math Skills

All year, third graders have been working on their multiplication skills. Their hard work was rewarded with an end of the year ice cream party! The more skills the students mastered, the more toppings they earned for their ice cream. What a sweet treat for these students!

Godliness is of value in every way

Hands-On Learning at Auburn Junior High

During physical science classes, eighth graders at Auburn Junior High School have learned to fly drones as a part of a multifaceted project. Two years ago, Auburn City Schools collaborated with Draganfly Inc., a leader in the professional drone industry for the past 20 years, to design a cuttingedge drone curriculum for students. The project was spearheaded by AJHS Science Teacher Mr. Nathan Baker and Draganfly’s Lead of Training Programs, Mr. Brock Gooden. The result is a robust program that offers students meaningful and engaging drone and aviation science content. The curriculum covers a wide range of topics, from the history of flight to how to become a licensed drone operator. During the program, Mr. Gooden brought multiple large service drones on-site for students to see and learn about. These drones are utilized for real-world scenarios within industries such as public safety, construction, agriculture, industrial inspections, security, mapping, and surveying. The pilot training element of the program allows students to master the basics of flight and drone control. Today, they put those skills to the test while navigating an obstacle course with their iPad-compatible

DJI Tello Drones.

At Trinity, our goal is to compete with humility and honor Christ through our hard work.

Congrats to AHS

Auburn High School has been named a 2023 National Model of Excellence for Most Outstanding SkillsUSA Program! This annual program recognizes the exceptional integration of personal, workplace, and technical skills into SkillsUSA chapter activities. This designation is the highest honor bestowed on chapters by SkillsUSA, which is among the largest student organizations for career and technical education. The focus of Models of Excellence is student-led activation. These students learn and practice the skills that every employer seeks, including leadership, initiative, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, by taking the lead on all SkillsUSA activities. Auburn High’s SkillsUSA chapter consists of five Career Technical Education Programs, including Advertising Design, Information Technology, Television Production, Building Construction, and Precision Machining. The AHS chapter will be evaluated in June at the SkillsUSA National Leadership & Skills Conference for top honors!

It’s Tea Time for Lee-Scott Academy Sophomores

Sophomores had their very own Victorian tea party with Mrs. Byrd, to wrap up what they’ve been learning in English classes. They dressed the part while putting some personal flair on their outfits based on their own interests.

Northside Intermediate Named 2022 CLAS School of Distinction

Opelika City Schools is proud to announce that Northside Intermediate School has been named a 2022 CLAS School of DistinctionDistrict 2. The presentation was made at the CLAS Banner awards luncheon in Prattville, AL. As stated in the CLAS- Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools press release, “The CLAS Banner School program nominated statewide. Congratulations to these wonderful Alabama public schools which provide excellent examples of the significant learning opportunities taking place in public education in Alabama. Further, the stakeholders at every school are to be commended for striving for excellence daily,” comments Vic Wilson, Ed.D., executive director of the Council for Leaders in Alabama Schools (CLAS).”Pictured receiving the award are: Danielle Rosener-Counselor, Northside Intermediate School, Cindy PoteetPrincipal, Northside Intermediate School, Tracie West-State Board of Education member (District 2), and Dr. Farrell SeymoreSuperintendent, Opelika City Schools. Congratulations to Northside Intermediate School on a job well done!

AHS Makes Coffee with Care

Auburn High School’s Tiger Mochas held its last Friday morning pop-up coffee shop of the 2022-2023 school year. Tiger Mochas was established in 2016 at AHS to teach students

with special needs job skills to better prepare them for employment postgraduation, including how to make change, prepare menus, interact with customers, and of course how to make delicious cups of joe, whether it is hot or iced. This initiative began as an avenue to fund travel for the students’ off-campus educational experiences but has blossomed into a staple at Auburn High School, creating a more inclusive culture among students, faculty, and staff. Over the past seven years, Tiger Mochas has also provided coffee-centric beverage services for countless community organizations, events, and special occasions in Auburn!

Childrens AL •org

In the little moments and major milestones of childhood, we are here for our patients and their families – helping, healing, teaching and discovering.

What’s “Old” Is “New” for Today’s Kids

Kids these days! I bet you have heard your grandparents or parents say this, or maybe you have even said it. If you are north of 30, you probably have. It seems every generation thinks the younger generation is just “too much” or “not enough” according to the older generation’s standards. Too much music and TV and not enough outside time was the complaint my grandparents leveled at my generation.

Today’s parents and grandparents probably believe “too much device time and not enough outside time.” This brings me to a thread of consistency over generations; we must get our kids outside. Why is this important?

According to Google: “If you spend time outdoors in green spaces, your cortisol levels decrease. When your cortisol levels decrease, your stress and anxiety decline, and you gain better control of your emotions, including fear and anger. Without stress, your body functions as it should.” But beyond this, why is it essential for our kids to be outdoors?

Playing outside promotes curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. Studies have found that children who spent more time exploring nature had improved learning outcomes. Kids were more positive in behavior. Research shows that when children spent time in natural settings, they

had less anger and aggression. When we get outside, we simply breathe better. Our bodies settle. Fight or flight mode decreases. All of these positive outcomes are the opposite of what happens when we stay inside and on devices. Also, spoiler alert, if you sit outside but stay on your phone, you negate the benefits of being outside. The whole point is to engage with nature.

What is really interesting is that our bodies instinctively tell us that we feel better when we are away from our devices. Previous generations not only know this, but they also honor what their bodies need.

Today’s generation has gotten good at not listening to their bodies cues.

The noise from devices and social media is much stronger than our bodies’ subtle nudge until it is too late. What do I mean by too late? I mean after we begin showing signs of anxiety, depression, frustration, and loneliness. But we can combat this by listening to the generations before us.

What feels “old hat’ to our grandparents will feel “new” to our kids today. Going outside for a walk, digging in the dirt to plant a garden, fishing, swimming in a stream, sitting out for a cold drink with friends…these things feel “new” to our kids. They may not be used to these activities

and do not know how good they make them feel until they actually do them. It is becoming more and more apparent that we must teach new generations these “old hat” tricks.

Kids born this year will never know a world without AI. Their lives will be inundated with technology. And I, for one, do not believe that our children will have evolved so much in the next 15-20 years that they will struggle less than today’s youth with the constant technology. I believe the opposite is accurate, and they will struggle even more.

Evolution is slow for a reason. Change needs to be slow. We can help our children and grandchildren by teaching them to listen to those subtle cues. Listen to their bodies. Take them outside. Teach them to get their hands dirty, go for walks, and drink lemonade on the front porch.

In an overcomplicated world, this seems so simple. But it is not only incredibly effective at combating the psychosocial and emotional issues our kids face today due to devices; it prepares them for years to come. It is our way “out” of the constant stress of the online world. It is the answer that we consistently look for. It is free. It is simple.

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

In grade school my son loved celebrating his summer birthday with a big party that included family, friends and everyone in his class. But after the last slice of cake was eaten and all the guests had gone home there was still one activity left, opening the pile of gifts. It became overwhelming and reached the point where his birthday seemed bigger than Christmas. It was time for a lesson in giving.

If your child is overloaded with gifts on his or her birthday, or if you feel it is time to teach the gift of giving, consider hosting a charitable birthday party this year. Your child will still enjoy celebrating his or her big day with friends and family. But instead of bringing a gift, ask your guests to bring a donation to a charity of your child’s choice. So your child won’t completely miss out on the new bike they’d been hoping for, limit gift giving to just family members. Or one big present from mom and dad.

Here are some ideas to get the party started

For your sporty child: Consider an activity like swimming, soccer, indoor ice skating, miniature golf, bowling, a bounce house at home or an indoor inflatables destination. Ask your guests to bring new or used shoes and clothing for Soles4Souls (soles4souls.org). This organization distributes donations to the needy in the United States and countries in Central and South America and Africa. Or find a local charity that accepts used

For the animal lover: Contact your local humane society to find out if they host kid’s birthday parties. If not, throw the party at home and have the kids make toys, blankets or anything else your humane society suggests for their homeless pets. Or take a trip to the zoo. Ask your guests to donate to the World Wildlife fund (worldwildlife.org) and they can adopt an animal they’d like to help. Adoptable animals include elephants, penguins, tigers and panda bears. Or, if you’re brave enough, throw a party with the local lizard guy at your house. Encourage guests to make donations to Heifer International (heifer.org) and let kids pick from a gift of goats, a present of pigs or any of the other animals Heifer International will provide to needy families in third world countries. The National Wildlife Federation (nwf.org) also maintains an adopt an animal program. With a donation you can adopt a gray wolf, harp seal or great horned owl to name a few.

For your little chef: These days cooking is all the rage and it isn’t just for adults anymore. Try hosting a cooking party for your little food lover. Check to see if there is a local venue like a specialty grocery store or cooking school that hosts parties for kids. Or a business that will come to your home and conduct a class. Or even a mobile culinary school. If not, use your own kitchen and host a pizza making party. Provide chef hats and individual pizza crusts for each child and a variety of toppings and let them make their own pie. Or make homemade ice cream and provide a choice of toppings like fruit, chocolate or caramel sauce, candies, or crushed cookies. Ask your guests to bring food to donate to your local food pantry.

Host a Happy Doll party: For a child who loves dolls, Happydoll.org provides dolls and all the materials needed so your guests can decorate a doll for a needy child. Each guest gets a cloth doll and non-toxic pens to design their own unique doll. Each doll has a specific tracking code so you can track where each decorated doll has traveled. Dolls are shipped to needy children throughout the U.S., and throughout the world including Haiti, India and China.

For the generous child: If your child just wants a simple but fun birthday party without a specific theme, host a cake and ice cream, pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey, musical chairs, and piñata kind of party that you may have enjoyed as a child. Consider donating to the children’s ward of a local hospital or to Ronald McDonald Children’s Charities. Or collect books and school supplies to donate to a church or other organization that helps local kids in need.

And if you want to send a little something home with your generous guests, say goodbye to the junk of the goody bag and try one of these simple ideas instead: make a craft like a friendship bracelet or a rubber band bracelet, ice cream cone gift certificate, local kid’s restaurant small gift certificate, sidewalk chalk, small book, homemade snacks like granola, trail mix or muffins (be sure to check for allergies.)

Lisa Nord Seplak is a freelance writer and mom who enjoys planning teachable activities with her family.

Is the Threat of De-Dollarization Real?

Q. I’m hearing more and more about “dedollarization” and how several countries are moving away from the U.S. dollar as their basis of international trade. Will this affect the strength of the dollar, and should I be concerned about how I’m saving and investing because of this?

A. First and foremost, I care enough about you to say you may be spending way too much time on the internet, buddy. You’re drifting into the realm of conspiracy theories here, so let’s slow down and take a look at some facts.

China, Brazil and Russia are the three main players in all this. They already don’t use the U.S. dollar as their basis of international trade—all three have their own currency, and there’s a conversion rate between all those currencies and the

U.S. dollar. Those three countries, along with some of the oil-producing countries from the Middle East they’re trying to get on board with the idea, are talking about developing one currency they all use. In international trade, that currency would be converted back and forth to dollars— much like what Europe did with the euro. Which, by the way, really hasn’t worked out so well. Are those countries going to be able to devalue the dollar by doing that? No. Why? Because while those countries take up a lot of land mass, they don’t take up a lot of the gross domestic product (GDP) of the world. The United States still represents the vast majority of the world’s GDP. Sure, China’s big in that regard. But

Russia doesn’t bring much to the table, and Brazil is barely scraping by in a failed economy. Plus, they’re tiny as far as economics are concerned. I mean, Texas probably has a larger GDP than Brazil.

In other words, they just don’t have the muscle to take down the dollar mathematically speaking. Now, if they do manage to put this idea together, it still won’t end in “de-dollarization.” The dollar will not be done away with. Even if they create their own currency, they’re still going to have to trade with the 800-pound gorilla, which is America. And they’re going to have to trade with us in dollars.

Am I worried about this? Not one bit. And you shouldn’t be either.

When I received the invite to my nephew’s, pirate party I was worried. The event was being held during the winter time at his house so all the five-year-old kids would be cooped up. How would over twenty kids be entertained in a small area indoors? Would I hear so many chaotic screams of “Arrr’s” and “Ahoy’s” that I would want to walk the plank?

My fears subsided when I beheld the enormous cardboard-created pirate ship in their living room. If the boat hadn’t been so crowded with kids, then I would have jumped inside of it myself. When I noticed organized activity stations set up throughout the house, I knew all the kids would have a blast. The party was a huge success that my kids still talk about four years later.

The pirate party isn’t the only impressive at-home one my sister and brotherin-law, Tara and Mike, have hosted. They had other events for my nephew and two nieces. The themes of their parties include knights and princesses, western cowboys and cowgirls, fairies and gnomes, Star Wars, and pirates. For all their parties they created a life-size cardboard centerpiece such as a castle or western town for the kids to play in and games centered around the theme along with a favor to take home. Homemade treats and a cake are abundant at every gathering.

So, what is the secret to throwing an epic birthday party on a dime?

Planning In Advance

The Stull Family is already planning the next unicorn theme party for June. They get ideas from Pinterest and other craft-

ing websites. Sometimes they brainstorm ideas on their own. This planning helps them to have enough time to create all the activities and cardboard centerpiece.

Potential Savings: $25-$50. Advanced planning allows them to buy sale items and use coupons.

Homemade

Almost everything at parties are homemade from the cardboard centerpieces to the games, food and favors. This significantly cuts down the cost of the parties which were all under $200.

Potential Savings: $50-$75 by not buying a store-bought cake, games or favors.

Team Work

Tara and Mike Stull work together creating the life-size centerpiece, games, favors and homemade baking. They also include their kids in the process of coming up with ideas and creating the items. By working together, they don’t become too overwhelmed with the planning and creating that is involved. It also makes the process more fun for the entire family.

Potential Savings: $25-$50 by working together, the less they need to purchase store bought items.

Old School Games With A Theme

At the parties, they offer simple games that everyone loves, and they incorporate the theme into the game. Instead of a typical water gun fight, they created a water gun shooting range in the western theme party. Or instead of pin the tail on the donkey it was pin the lightsaber on Yoda for the Star Wars theme party. Some other games they played are a pirate scavenger hunt for gold coins, relay cowboy horse races and beware of the shark cardboard toss bean bag game.

Potential Savings: $100-$200 by not hosting the party at an outside venue such as a play gym, bowling alley or laser tag place.

Finding Free or Discounted Items

Tara and Mike asked local appliance stores for free cardboard boxes to create the

centerpiece, games, and favors. They also got deeply discounted “mistake paint” for a quarter of the price (around $9 instead of $40) that people returned because they didn’t like the color from Home Depot and Lowe’s.

Potential Savings: $25-$50 by not purchasing cardboard boxes, games and favors also savings from purchasing mistake paint which can be used for crafts, games or painting the cardboard centerpieces.

Using Coupons and Purchasing Sale Items

They purchase some of the items at Michael’s and other craft stores using coupons. They also use coupons at the grocery store to buy the food for the party. Coupons can be found at the store’s website or app or by signing up for the store’s emails. Also coupons can be found at online coupon website like Coupons.com.

Potential Savings: $50-$100 by using coupons and purchasing sale items.

Selling on Craigslist or Marketplace

After the last party, they sold some games they made for $30. They plan to do this for future parties.

Potential Savings: $50-$100 depending on the items created and sold. You could also sell your household items prior to the event to help fund it.

Who’s Ready to Party?

These parties are a lot of work, but the whole family loves creating a memorable event. I know that we are anxiously awaiting the next unicorn party. Who knows maybe we will even spy a real one?

Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, National Geographic, The Washington Post, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05

Fresh vegetables are in abundance this time of year and this month’s Dinner’s Ready recipe will allow you to use many of them.

“I am sharing one of my favorite recipes, especially for this time of year! It’s the Garden Vegetable Pie,” shared Leah Smith of Auburn. “I love this one because so many of the ingredients come straight from my garden. It’s also very versatile. You can easily use it as the main course or a side dish. Everyone in my family enjoys it, even the boys!”

Leah has been married to her husband Brad for 11 years and together they have two boys: Sam (9) and Will (5). The family loves to be outdoors together; hiking and exploring are some of their favorite things to do.

“I love to be outside in my garden and really take in God’s creation around me... the bees, the blooms, the birds, the blossoms. I am always in awe of how intricately my Heavenly Father designed His creation,” said Leah. She further shares that she is in her garden as often as possible and is happy to plant just about anything - pumpkin, watermelon, corn. If it will grow, in the dirt it will go.

“I suppose my love for gardening and growing vegetables came from a dear family friend, Mr. Bill. When I was a little girl, I loved spending time in Mr. Bill’s garden. He was a dear friend of our family and very close to my daddy,” Leah reminisced. “I cherish the time I spent with the two of them in the garden. Much of what I know about growing vegetables and my

love of gardening is owed to Mr. Bill.”

When she is not joyfully cooking for her family or gardening, you will find Leah baking and decorating cookies or decorating her home.

“I love to decorate for all holidays, even the smaller ones like St. Patrick’s Day and Christmas in July! God has given us so many blessings and there’s always a reason to celebrate.”

Garden Vegetable Pie

This recipe is from Tastes Better from Scratch and written by Laura Allen.

Ingredients:

• 1 9-inch pre-baked pie crust

• 3 tomatoes, peeled and sliced (Romas work best)

• 1 small zucchini, sliced into rings

• 1 small yellow squash, sliced into rings

• 1/2 cup sweet or red onion, sliced

• 10 fresh basil leaves, chopped

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1 cup freshly shredded cheddar cheese

• 3/4 cup mayonnaise (or half mayo, half Greek yogurt)

• 2 Tbsp freshly grated Parmesan Cheese

• Salt and fresh ground black pepper

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F.

2. Place the tomatoes in a colander in the

sink in one layer. Sprinkle with salt and allow to drain for 10 minutes.

3. Use a paper towel to pat-dry the tomatoes and make sure most of the excess juice is out. (You don’t want very wet tomatoes or your pie will turn out soggy).

4. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season zucchini and squash with salt and pepper. Saute the squash in a single layer for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown. Remove to a paper towel.

5. Layer the zucchini, squash, tomato slices, and onion on the bottom of the pie shell. (Make sure pie shell is pre-baked and completely cool to avoid sogginess). Sprinkle basil on top.

6. Combine the grated cheeses and mayonnaise together. Smooth cheese mixture over the top and sprinkle parmesan

7. Bake for about 30 minutes or until lightly browned. Allow to cool for at least 15 minutes.

8. To serve, cut into slices and serve warm.

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.

Cakes and Finger Foods

Bruster’s Ice Cream

2172 E University Drive, Auburn

Ice cream cakes and pies are loaded with personality.

334-821-9988

Cakeitecture Bakery

124 South 8th Street, Opelika

Baking and decorating mixed with architecture and construction... with imagination, the potential is endless!

334-246-3002

www.cakeitecture.com

Crumbl Cookies

2638 Enterprise Drive, Opelika

Crumbl offers gourmet desserts and treats ready to be delivered straight to your door. We also offer in-store and curbside pickup from our locally owned and operated shop. Our cookies are made fresh every day and the weekly rotating menu delivers unique cookie flavors you won’t find anywhere else.

334-203-4783

www.crumblcookies.com/alauburn

Dairy Queen

2019 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika

DQ® Treatzza Pizza® / DQ® Cakes / DQ® Blizzard® Cakes / DQ® Mini Blizzard® Cakes. 334-742-9500 www.dairyqueen.com

GiGi’s Cupcakes

3794-G Pepperell Parkway, Opelika Cakes and cupcakes for all occasions. Create your own Birthday Box.

334-275-4331 www.gigiscupcakesusa.com/ pages/opelika-alabama

Great American Cookies

1627 Opelika Road (inside the mall), Auburn Cookies for special days...just choose design and add your message.

334-821-4553 www.greatamericancookies.com

O-Town Ice Cream

700 2nd Avenue, Opelika

Delicious decisions, there’s a story in every flavor. 334737-5700 www.facebook.com/otown icecream/

The Yard Milkshake Bar

147 North College St, Auburn

We offer premium ice cream and are widely known for our over-the-top milkshakes! We also offer eight flavors of edible cookie dough and over 50 topping options! Tag us on Instagram for a chance at a repost of your beautiful milkshake creations!

www.theyardmilkshakebar.com

Entertainment

Dr. Magical Balloons

Provides creative shows and plays various characters such as Santa Claus. Creates amazing balloon art.

334-444-5467 www.drmagicfun.com

Farmer Brown’s Party Animals

929 Lee Rd #14, Auburn

Two party options. We bring the party to you.. specializing in petting zoos and pony rides. Our large petting zoo is perfect for any church or school event! With this service option, we bring the animals to your location and set up our panel pens. We usually bring 10-12 animals ranging from our camel to mini horses to sheep and goats. Or....Farm Party on Our Farm: Farm parties include a small animal petting zoo, pony rides and a hayride around the farm.

334-209-1777 farmerbrownspartyanimals.com

Kona Ice

Party truck will bring tropical shaved ice for a sweet, cold treat.

334-707-3650 www.kona-ice.com/local-site/ kona-ice-of-auburn-opelika-columbus/

Equipment/Rental

4 Party Plus Rentals

Rentals include inflatalbes, slides, games, concessions, characters and more. www.4partyplus.com

Alpha-Lit Auburn

Offering the highest quality marquee letters to customize your event.

www.alphalitletters.com/auburnmontgomery

Auburn Backyard Entertainment

We offer movie screens, projectors, audio, karaoke, black light mini golf, spa parties and more.

www.facebook.com/auburnbackyardentertainment/

KoKo’s Event Center and Planning

1702 Catherine Court, Auburn

Our services in event center venue, event planning and referral, and event equiptment rental. Kokos Event Center is a unique event venue for every type of small celebration. I’m here to make sure that each event I’m involved with is inspiring, extraordinary and unforgettable. From initial planning to selecting the perfect catering and concept, I’ll assist you every step of the way until I deliver a stunning result beyond imagination.

334-728-2476 kokoseventcenter@gmail.com www.kokoseventcenter22.com

Space Walk of Auburn

Offering a selection of space walks, wet/dry slides, obstacle course, games and more.

334-887-5437 www.herecomesfun.com/branches/Georgia/auburn-columbus

The Great Indoors

We are a small event company specializing in indoor camping experiences for sleepovers, backyard movie nights, and picnics. www.thegreatindoorsao.com

Miscellaneous

Auburn Parks and Recreation

425 Perry Street, Auburn

Rent a party space. Offering multiple gymnasiums, parks with pavilions, game rooms, ceramic studio and more.

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

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika

Rent a party space. Offering multiple gymnasiums, parks with pavilions, game rooms, ceramic studio pools and splash pad.

334-705-5560 www.opelikasportsplex.com

Outdoor Parks

Kreher Preserve and Nature Center

ad on page 20

222 North College Street, Auburn

The Kreher Preserve & Nature Center is a wonderful destination for themed nature-based birthday parties! Trained teacher/naturalists provide age-appropriate programs for children and youth. Each party includes a 20- to 45-minute program with hands-on activities and animal encounters, 30-minute nature hike, and t-shirt for the birthday child (1 per party). Many themes to choose from including Nuts for Nature, Frogs and Fun, Radical Reptiles, Incredible Insects, Art in Nature, and Warm for the Winter. Also, Critter Caravan can come to you!

334-707-6512 www.auburn.edu/preserve

Auburn City Parks

425 Perry Street, Auburn

Outdoor pools: Samford and Drake, Bowden

Park, Felton Little Park, Town Creek Park, Hickory Dickory Park, Kiesel Park, Martin Luther King Jr Park, Moores Mill Park and Sam Harris Park.

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

Opelika City Parks

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika Aquatic Pool, splash park, Floral Park, Municipal Park and Springvilla Park.

334-705-5560 www.opelikasportsplex.com

The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum

2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery Sights and sounds of the zoo makes for a perfect spot for a party. Pavilions and playground area.

334-240-4900 www.montgomeryzoo.com

Decorations/Invitations/ Paper Goods

Check It Out!

239 North Gay Street , Auburn Costumes, balloon bouquets and arches, party products, gifts wooden cut outs, sorority gifts and more. Check-It-Out offers balloon deliveries, balloon decor, gift baskets, flower arrangements, cake & cookie deliveries, sorority merchandise, and large bulk deliveries. We offer the largest selection of balloons in every shape and size.

334-826-0308 www.check-it-outballoons.com

Hobby Lobby

2570 Enterprise Drive, Opelika

Party supplies, invitations, crafts and more. 334-745-2730 www.hobbylobby.com

Lynn’s Hallmark

1627 Opelika Road (inside the mall), Auburn Party invitations and unique gifts.

334-887-9889

Michael’s Store

1550 Opelika Rd, Suite 8, Auburn Party supplies, invitations, crafts and more. 334-246-2804 www.michaels.com

Party City

2534 Enterprise Drive, Opelika

One-stop store for all your celebrations. 334-745-1568 www.partycity.com

Photographer

Memories in Motion Photo Bus ad on page 15

Auburn

The combination of our beautiful VW Bus, the Ultimate collection of props, and photo booth shenanigans will keep your guests interacting, laughing, and coming back for more! Call us for more details.

www.memoriesinmotionphotobus.com

Simple Joy Photographer ad on page 21

Auburn

Specializing in child, newborn, family and couple photography in the Auburn/Opelika, Alabama area. I strive to combine traditional and lifestyle photography to create beautiful images that freeze time and celebrate every season of life! Call today for an appointment.

334-707-7900 www.simplejoyphoto.com

Auburn

Full service studio, specializing in contemporary artistic portraiture of children, tweens, teens and families.

334-663-3343 www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

Places to Party- Fun Zone

Rock ‘n Roll Pinball

ad on Inside Front Cover

815 South Railroad Avenue, Opelika

We are Family and Party Friendly. Amy Briggs will work with you to set up the most fun, economical, and easy party experience you will ever have. Contact akb0049@auburn.edu; 28 Modern, Classic and Vintage Pins, 2 Multicade Video Arcades playing over 500 games, a golden tee game, drinks/snacks, private party room and more! 334-363-7625 www.rocknrollpinball.com

Great Wolf Lodge

150 Tom Hall Parkway, LaGrange

Offering indoor water park fun and dry-land adventures for the entire family. Our resort near Atlanta features kid-friendly activities, dining options, an adult-friendly wine down service, and more all under one roof. Your stay includes access to the 93,000-sq. ft. water park’s pools and slides, kept warm at 84-degrees year-round 844.473.9653 www.greatwolf.com/georgia

AMF Auburn Lanes

719 Opelika Road, Auburn

Every party package includes bowling lanes, shoes, party supplies and great food and drinks. 334-887-6573 www.amf.com

Auburn Escape Zones

1234 Commerce Drive, Auburn

Work as a team to unlock clues and escape. 334-329-7088 www.auburnescapezones.com

Cyber Zone

107 North 9th Street, Opelika

CyberZone Entertainment features some of the best attractions in the world! Including an all new

laser tag and equipment, VR experiences such as Hologate and Kong VR, relaunched Esports Arena, and the latest and greatest arcade video and ticket games. CyberZone Entertainment Center has the dedicated party spaces and an expert planning team ready to accommodate birthday parties for kids and adults of all ages.

334-737-5000 www.cyberzone334.com

Good Times

750 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn Entertainment center offering guests 16 boutiquestyle bowling lanes, 30 arcade games, 2 escape rooms, 2 party rooms, and a full-service restaurant & bar.

334539-3131 www.goodtimesbowling.com

Sing Sing Karaoke

3794 Pepperell Parkway, Suite A, Opelika Sing karaoke for your party. Rent small to large private room space.

334-759-7087

Surge Trampoline Park

2506 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika Indoor trampoline park with multiple areas to explore.

334-737-5599 www.surgeopelika.com

Places to PartyIce Skating

Columbus Ice Rink

400 4th Street , Columbus Ice skating party packages, complete with activities and a private area to eat and enjoy the rest of your celebration.

706-225-4500 www.columbusicerink.org

Eastdale Mall Ice Palace

1000 Eastdale Mall, Montgomery Ice skating or broom ball.

334-277-2088 www.facebook.com/eastdale mallicepalace

Places to PartyArtistic/Creative

Buff City Soap Auburn

ad on page 7

312 West Magnolia Avenue, Auburn

Book your Buff Event! Make Memories And Custom Mini Bath Bombs With Friends, Family, And Co-Workers. Offering Kid’s Birthday Bash, Ladies Night Out, or create your own event. 1.5 hours of

hands-on party time reserved in the Makery. Your guests will experience Makery Magic firsthand, learn all about our handmaking process, and make up to 5 custom Mini Bath Bombs of their own! Food and drinks are welcome in most Makeries. Keep the fun going with a Custom Half or Full Loaf of Soap to make your Buff Event truly unforgettable! Contact your local Makery to learn how to make your Buff Event even more magical!

334-521-4222 buffauburn@gmail.com

www.partywithbuff.com

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art

901 South College Street, Auburn

An exciting environment to hold social gatherings, presentations, performances and birthday parties.

334-844-1484 www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Opelika Parks and Recreation: Ceramics Party 1102 Denson Drive, Opelika

Please check with main office for more information. 334-705-5547 www.opelika.org

Places to Party-Fun Zone

OWA Parks and Resort ad on page 5 101-North South OWA Blvd, Foley, Al 36535

Celebrate your special day at Tropic Falls! Book your birthday with us and take the worry out of your party planning. At the heart of our 520-acre destination is Tropic Falls, featuring 23 themepark rides and the region’s biggest indoor water park plus Big Water Bay’s outdoor wave pool with surf simulator, Coastal Curl. Just outside the ticketed areas is Downtown OWA—pedestrian-only streets filled with dining, shopping & entertainment choices.

251-923-2111 www.visitowa.com

Auburn Putt Putt & Event Center 891 Co Rd 395, Auburn

Auburn’s Highest Rated Wheel Chair Accessible Putt-Putt Golf Course and Event Venue. Contact us to book our venue for your next event or birthday party. At Auburn Putt-Putt we offer a full covered area with tables, chairs, grills, and stone brick ovens. Perfect for hosting any event such as birthday parties, family reunions, or organization retreats.

334-444-0497 www.auburnputtputt.com

Places to PartyMartial Arts

Auburn Mixed Martial Arts ad on page 27

2515 East Glenn Avenue, Opelika

Birthday kid is a black belt ninja for the day and break a board.

334-887-0818 www.auburnmma.com

Picture Perfect by Candy

KidStrong Auburn

ad on page 29

1530 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830

One Party, Private Party, Your Party! You get the entire use of a state-of-the-art center floor with action-packed ninja courses, and more! Not only are KidStrong parties fun for the kids but you get to sit back and enjoy while we take care of everything! Did we mention you don’t need to do anything but have fun? Two Professional Coaches: We provide you two high energy professional Coaches that will run your party with non stop movement and activities! They will set up, clean up and serve any food you provide.

334-780-1118 www.kidstrong.com/locations/auburn

Auburn Academy of Martial Arts

323 Airport Road, Suite J, Auburn

Be a black belt for the day with games and fun. Break a board too.

334-502-7221 www.auburnacademy.com

World Champion Taekwondo

300 North Dean Road, #6, Auburn 90 minutes of supervised fun including martial arts instruction, board breaking and games. Birthday kid will cut the cake with a real sword! You can expect non-stop games, activities, challenges, and even learning some martial arts the whole way!

334-329-7117 www.martialartsauburn.com

Places to PartyRestaurants

Brick Oven Pizza

2520 Enterprise Drive, Opelika

Create own pizza from scratch.

334-745-0223 www.brickovenonline.com

Chick-fil-A

2052 Tiger Town Parkway, Opelika Indoor playground.

334-741-7112

McDonald’s Ronald Drive, Auburn Indoor playground.

334-821-5303

Niffer’s Place

917 South Railroad Avenue, Opelika

Fun atmosphere for parties.

334-787-5989 www.niffersplace.com

The 19th Hole of Auburn

1120 South College Street, Auburn

Eat. Drink. Putt. Private and semi-private rentals for an array of event types.

334-328-3033 www.ccauburn.com

Sports

Auburn University Kid’s Club

392 South Donahue Drive, Auburn

Party with the Auburn tigers! Packages for Men’s Basketball, Women’s Basketball, Gymnastics, Baseball, Softball, Soccer, Swimming & Diving, Volleyball and Equestrian.

334-844-9526 auburntigers.com/kidsclub

One of the best things I started doing as a mom was unconsciously implementing rhythms into my day.

They’re things that trigger other things or things triggered by other things.

These do not have to be complicated!

Rhythms are habits meant to create fluidity.

Rhythms are some of the most-autopilot-type things we, as moms, do throughout our day. They are likely ones you’re already doing and just haven’t specifically named. These can be applied to cleaning, getting out of the house, naptime, quiet time. Any time!

For example, I have rhythms that are literally visual signals for my kids, my family, or myself. At breakfast when we wake up, I open the shades and the back door to let the light in. At naptime midday, I turn off the big overhead lights. At bedtime, my nightstand lamp goes on. These help my brain (and my kids!) to visualize and understand our day is starting, or “Hey, it’s rest time, let’s be calm.” Or, “okay time to wind down for the night.”

These things can happen; and likely do — naturally. But you can also slowly set them in place to serve you and your daily flow of living. Whether you are a stay-at-home, work-athome, or work-out-of-the-home mom or dad, you are busy and you need these!

While the ones I use might look different than the ones you do, here are just some that have been particularly helpful to me in this season of young kids.

Morning Rhythms

In the morning while I let the dog out, I click on the coffee maker to brew. My daughter starts her morning preschool work at the dining room table, which I have set out the night before, and I put my toddler in his chair for breakfast. While they are sitting and contained, I put away the dishes set out to dry the night before and empty the dishwasher.

To help me with my rhythm I look for triggers to go to that next step. Dog outside = press the coffee maker, kids contained = put away dishes without my one-year-old opening all the cabinets or grabbing at the glass plates.

These are the crucial first moments of our day, and while things don’t always run smoothly and perfectly, I can depend on them to get me started. Simplicity wins. And it also helps us function. So do rhythms that involve coffee because... priorities, right!?

Nap Time Rhythms

Every nap time, I put my youngest down and immediately throw in a load of laundry, make a cup of coffee, then sit at my computer to work. When my son wakes up from his afternoon nap, I grab pajamas for both kids to wear to bed while I am already upstairs and then set them in the bathroom on the counter. You may think getting pajamas to wear five hours later sounds insane, but hear me out.

It seems almost silly or trivial, but when they’re in the bath downstairs at 6:30 p.m. and their pajamas are upstairs in their dressers, no one’s leaving kids unattended to grab them. Signals and rhythms, once again, saving the evening chaos from more chaos!

I also do a speedy ten-minute pickup of the main areas during nap time to “reset” the day. This is quite literally a visual signal for reset, much like opening the blinds at the start of the day.

My major nap time triggers are: come down the stairs and pass the laundry room = start the washer, turn his sound machine off = grab pajamas.

Sounds simple enough, right?

Evening Rhythms

Every night I load the dishwasher after dinner. I also preset the coffee maker to run smoothly in the morning. Big lights in the main areas go off, lamps go on. Dishes get washed and set out on the mat to dry to be put away in the morning. When I shower at night, I set out my pajamas and also set out my clothes for the next day on my dresser.

My triggers here are: turning on the shower = get PJs as well as clothes for the next day, kids ready for bed = big lights off, coffee maker prepped, load dishwasher.

Cleaning Rhythms

For cleaning-specific rhythms, I do at least one load of laundry a day. I change the sheets generally on Sundays, but definitely on the weekend. I don’t have a specific schedule I follow for cleaning, but try to weave in these signals throughout my days and week.

I have tried a schedule like “Monday – vacuum, Tuesday –wash all the laundry, Wednesday – deep clean the kitchen” and it doesn’t work for our changing life and daily routine. If this works for you, great!

Smaller and more subtle triggers feel less overwhelming to me. The biggest difference I’ve found in leaning into rhythms and triggers is that they are habit-forming guides and they just tend to stick longer. I’ve found that strict and detailed daily cleaning schedules feel almost defeating to me because our days look different from week to week. If I don’t follow the “Monday Schedule” exactly, I feel too defeated to attempt Tuesdays, and then I’m thrown off for the whole week. A lot of the time, in changing seasons, rigid schedules don’t last.

If I know I’m going to bed every night or that I pick up the kitchen after the kids are asleep, I can instill things into our routine based on those things. Not just because it happens to be Thursday night.

Wrap Up

These routines and habits serve me and my household. They may not look like yours and that’s okay (you may enjoy creating systems instead!). Take some time after reading this to think about your day and what you already do. Maybe write down some rhythms you notice you do already. Or take note for a whole day and jot down some of the things you need to get done.

Can you give your kids or yourself a way to remember how to do them, a way to connect them to something else? Identify the signals that trigger them and evaluate how you can do them more efficiently or even at all. See the routines serving you in your house already, what needs to be altered, and what can be tossed aside in the season of life you are in. These habits and rhythms are not to make you and your household run like robots! They are simply tools, which later turn into unconscious habits.

When we spend so much time at home, it is important to create a sense of fluidity and flow within our days. Habits triggered by signals or other routines are the easiest ways I’ve found to adopt this mentality. Your house will be running smoothly in no time! Well...as smooth as it can with kids running around, let’s be real.

Kailyn is a wife and mama to two wild, blond babes, currently living where the military sends them. With an Early Childhood Education and Psychology degree, she is a Kindergarten teacher-turned-mama turned-freelance writer.

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Saturday, July 1

Madagascar The Musical RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 900 Broadway, 900 Broadway, Columbus, Ga Join Alex, Marty, Melman and Gloria as they bound out of the zoo and onto the stage in this live musical spectacular. This smash hit musical features all of your favorite cracka-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. www.rivercenter.org/event/madagascar-the-musical-2/

Arti Gras

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Russell Crossroads, 27 Russell Farms Rd, Alexander City Arti Gras features dozens of artists from throughout the south. You find handmade work of all of our exhibitors that includes, but isn’t limited to paintings, jewelry, photography, sculpture and more. Arti Gras is held on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Come join us! Come early as a lot of this merchandise will sell out fast! For more information contact Sydnee Riley. 256.212.1431 sriley@russelllands.com

Second Saturday at Pioneer Park

9:30 AM - 12:30 PM, 650 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.

www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org/second-saturday

Sunday, July 2

Arti Gras

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Russell Crossroads, 27 Russell Farms Rd, Alexander City Arti Gras features dozens of artists from throughout the south. You find handmade work of all of our exhibitors that includes, but isn’t limited to paintings, jewelry, photography, sculpture and more. Arti Gras is held on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Come join us! Come early as a lot of this merchandise will sell out fast!

256.212.1431 sriley@russelllands.com

Grandma Val’s Summer Picnic at the Midsummer Market

2:00 PM - 7:00 PM, Heritage House Lodging and Events, 714 2nd Ave, Opelika There will be local crafts folks, homemade goodies, and more! Heritage House and Grandma Val’s want you to bring a blanket and settle into the east lawn to enjoy an afternoon of eats and treats while listening to live music from iAm Unique Music & Free to attend! All Ages. Check facebook for updates.

Monday, July 3

Opelika Freedom Celebration

6:30 PM - 9:30 PM, Opelika High School, 1700 LaFayette Pkwy, Opelika, 1700 LaFayette Pkwy, Opelika

Join the Opelika Parks & Recreation and Opelika community at the Freedom Celebration at Opelika High School on July 2nd! This event is packed full of fun including seeing the Silver Wings Parachute Team, music by Route 66, concessions, and a firework show at dark. There will be hamburgers, hotdogs, popcorn, musical entertainment and activities for the whole family.

www.opelika-al.gov/749/freedom-celebration

Tuesday, July 4

Russell Marine’s 4th of July Boat Parade

10:00 AM Decorate your boat and join the patriotic crowd at Kowaliga Marina as boats of all sizes, shapes, and decoration will “parade” from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor circling just past the lighthouse. Spectators line the shoreline along the parade route to cheer on their favorite patriotically decorated boats and contestants. Registered boats will be vying for top honors and CASH for the Largest Flag, Tallest Flag, Most Patriotic, Most Creative, and the Best Crew.

(256) 472-5665

4th of July Fireworks and Concert at the Amp

5:00 PM Lake Martin, Eclectic, Al, Eclectic, Al Find your place on the grassy lawn at The AMP for the largest 4th of July Fireworks Display in the Southeast. Gates open at 5pm. Come listen to Lake Martin’s favorite cover band, The Bank Walkers and Andrew Jannakos will take the stage right before and just after the Fireworks.

www.theAmpOnLakeMartin.com

Auburn Independence Day Celebration

5:00 PM, Behind Duck Samford Stadium, Auburn Celebrate Independence Day with the entire Auburn Community. Enjoy great food and treats for purchase while listening to amazing music from a live band and D.J. Free inflatables. Special Guest Aubie. Gates open at 5:00 p.m. - Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. Families are encouraged to drive to Duck Samford Stadium, 1840 East Glenn Avenue, Duck Samford and Bo Cavin Baseball fields, 333 Airport Rad for parking. The fireworks will be set off in a centrally located area, the old water tower site on East University Drive, next to Duck Samford Park. Duck Samford Baseball Fields

1-3, 1720 East University Drive will be closed to the public to accommodate the fireworks shoot site.

www.auburnalabama.org/4th-of-July/

Concert & Fireworks

6:30 PM, Phenix City, Alabama Free Patriotic Concert & Fireworks. The show will be held in the Amphitheater located on the West bank of the Chattahoochee River in Russell County/Phenix City, Alabama. www.RussellCountyTourism.com

July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party

Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, Ga Celebrate summer days and starry nights with our weekend-long

July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party! Enjoy four days of family adventures on the sunny shores of Robin Lake Beach with beach volleyball, putt putt, and water activities like stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Play all day on floating obstacle course Aqua Island, where your family can race across twisting bridges, scale towering inflatable mountains, and slip down gigantic slides into the sparkling waters below. Each day ends with a bang thanks to our nightly Fireworks Extravaganza; a spectacular salute to summer. callawaygardens.com/the-gardens/events/4th-of-july/

Saturday, July 8

Float-In-Movie: Luca (FREE admission with Splash Pass or $2 per person.) 8:00 PM - 11:00 PM,, Samford Pool, Auburn Join the Aquatics Staff for a float-in-movie. Enjoy a movie under the stars while relaxing and floating on a tube or lounging on the pool deck. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite inflatable from home, as some will be provided. Concessions will be available throughout the evening. Pool floats are allowed for float-in-movies. Concessions will be available for purchase during the movie.

Sunday, July 9

Grossology Day

10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, Zoo Atlanta Find out the scoop on animal poop, the details of disgusting diets, and more during Grossology Day at Zoo Atlanta. We will be exploring the purpose of animal behaviors that many think of as gross, but that help animals to survive and fulfill their roles in the ecosystem. Come check out activity stations, a scavenger hunt, a themed storybook reading and more, celebrating some of the?less appreciated aspects of nature.? www.zooatlanta.org/event/grossology-day/

Tuesday, July 11

Family Discovery Hikes: Pollinators

3:30 PM Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn.

3:30pm. Join the monthly guided hikes through the Kreher forest. Hikes offer excellent opportunities for the entire family to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Free – donations are welcomed and we will meet at the covered pavilion.

www.wp.auburn.edu/preserve/events/

Summer Swing: Fedoras (Free)

7:00 PM, Municipal Park, Opelika Come out early! Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the bank of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation. Food vendors available.

www.opelika-al.gov/746/Summer-Swing

Thursday, July 13

Flatland Cavalry

Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery. Flatland Cavalry is breaking out into a gallop. After years of hot trotting across their native Texas, the country outfit is primed for a breakout with the release of their third full-length album, the sonically sprawling and wistfully written Welcome to Country land.

www.mpaconline.org

Summer Film Series

‘National Treasure’

6:00 PM Gogue Center for the Performing Arts, 910 South College Street, Auburn Our 2023 Summer Film Series concludes with the edge-of-your-seat adventure National Treasure. All 2023 Summer Film Series screenings are free and open to the public. Registration is required. Amphitheatre gates open at 6 p.m.; activities begin at 6:15 p.m.; films starts at 7 p.m. Food trucks will be on-site. Guests are welcome to bring blankets, cushions and lawn chairs. No outside food, beverages or pets are permitted. For more information, contact the Gogue Center box office.

334.844.TIXS (8497)

Saturday, July 15

20th Annual Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run

8:30 AM - 5:00 PM,, Lake Martin, Al The day is filled with boating, fun, family and friends all while raising money for local Lake Martin charities. This year, participants will start at Kowaliga Marina and end at The Ridge Marina for food and awards.

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Sunday, July 16

William Lee and the Goldens

Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery Oak Ridge Boy William Lee Golden and his award winning sons, The Goldens, are bringing their “all-star” band from Nashville for an unforgettable night of music you don’t want to miss. www.mpaconline.org

Tuesday, July 18

Summer Swing: James Brown Trio (Free)

7:00 PM, Municipal Park, Opelika Come out early! Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the bank of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation. Food vendors available.

www.opelika-al.gov/746/Summer-Swing

Wednesday, July 19

Kenny Wayne Shepard

Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery The Louisiana born axeman and songsmith has sold millions of albums while throwing singles into the Top 10, shining a light on the rich blues of the past and forging ahead with his own modern twist on a classic sound he has embodied since his teens. www.mpaconline.org

Friday, July 21

Cheers on the Cheer

6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Downtown Auburn The Downtown Auburn Merchant’s Association invites you to cool off this summer at Cheers on the Corner, an inaugural taste of downtown Auburn. Each of the stops along the way will provide you with a savory bite representative of the flavors of downtown Auburn. You will also receive a complimentary souvenir glass. www.downtownauburnonline.com/events

Tracy Byrd with Jo Dee Messina

6:30 PM Sweetland

Amp, 100 Smith Street, LaGrange Ga, 100 Smith Street, LaGrange Ga Tracy Byrd became a household name on the Country Music Scene in 1993 when his third single, called “Holdin’ Heaven”, off of his MCA Records, self-titled debut album, hit #1 on the Billboard Country Charts. The Album also included the remake hit of Johnny Paycheck’s “Someone to Give my Love to” cementing Byrd as a Traditional Country Troubadour!! The Debut Album went on to be certified Gold, an award signifying sale in excess of 500,000 copies.

www.sweetlandamp.com/events/tracy-byrd-with-jodee-messina/

Sundilla presents Ian Sherwood in Concert

7:30 PM, Pebble Hill, 101 S. Debardeleben, Auburn

The show will begin at 7:30.

Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, and sundillamusic.com.

Sunday, July 23

Keb ‘Mo’

Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery With five GRAMMYs, 14 Blues Foundation Awards, and a groundbreaking career spanning nearly 50 years under his belt, Keb’ Mo’ stands as one of the most accomplished and respected artists working in contemporary roots music today.

www.mpaconline.org

Tuesday, July 25

Summer Swing: Martha’s Trouble (Free)

7:00 PM, Municipal Park, Opelika Come out early! Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the bank of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation. Food vendors available.

www.opelika-al.gov/746/Summer-Swing

Wednesday, July 26

Bret Michaels

Montgomery Performing Arts Center, 201 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery Global Entrepreneur, Philanthropist and Humanitarian of the Year, Bret Michaels, has over 100 million records, digital and streams sold worldwide, is a reality TV superstar with some of the highest rated reality shows in history as well as a lifelong type 1 diabetic.

www.mpaconline.org

Thursday, July 27

Summer Film Series: Moana Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 South College Street, Auburn. Come early for a Hawaiian luau complete with tropical-themed games and crafts. Screenings are free and open to the public. Registration is required. Amphitheatre gates open at 6 p.m.; activities begin at 6:15 p.m.; film starts at 7 p.m. Food trucks will be on-site. Guests are welcome to bring blankets, cushions and lawn chairs. No outside food, beverages or pets are permitted. For more information on our 2023 Summer Film Series, contact the Gogue Center box office at 334.844.TIXS (8497) or gpactickets@auburn.edu.

Friday, July 28

Chris Tomlin

8:00 PM Sweetland Amp, 100 Smith Street, LaGrange Ga Chris Tomlin is a contemporary Christian music singer, songwriter, and worship leader originally from Texas who has sold over 7 million records. He is a member of Passion Conferences and some of his most well-known songs are “How Great Is Our God”, “Our God”, “Whom Shall I Fear (God of Angel Armies)” and his cover of “Good Good Father”.

www.sweetlandamp.com/events/chris-tomlin/

July 31 - August 1

Georgia Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

Georgia has had an annual “Back-to-School” sales tax holiday since 2012. This tax holiday is meant to help parents save money when purchasing common back-to-school supplies for their children. A sales tax holiday is an annual event during which the Georgia allows certain items to be purchased sales-tax-free at any participating retailer within the state.

www.salestaxhandbook.com/georgia/sales-taxdepartment

Tuesday, August 1

Summer Swing: Back to School Bash (Free) 7:00 PM, Municipal Park, Opelika Come out early! Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the bank of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation. Food vendors available.

www.opelika-al.gov/746/Summer-Swing

Saturday, August 5

Sportsplex Kids Duathlon & Small Fry Tri Opelika Sportsplex and Aquatics Center, 1001 SportsPlex Parkway, Opelika Ages brackets: 6-8 years, 9-11 years, and 12-15 years. Participants will compete based on their age as of 12/31/23. In order for a 5 year old to compete in the race they will need to do a paper registration. Paper registration deadline is 7/21/23. All participants will wear tri tags. Race Krewe will be doing timing for the event. Awards will be given to the top 3 finishers, male and female, in each age group. Each participant will receive a t-shirt and medal.

www.sportsplextriforkids.com

Tuesday, August 8

Family Discovery Hikes: Water & Soil

3:30 PM Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn Join the monthly guided hikes through the Kreher forest. Hikes offer excellent opportunities for the entire family to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Free – donations are welcomed and we will meet at the covered pavilion.

www.wp.auburn.edu/preserve/events/

Saturday, August 12

Magical Creatures Education Program

10:00 AM - 12:00 PM, The Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery Meet some of the magical animals that are featured in the movies like Harry Potter and The Hobbit. You will get a chance to meet these animals up close, learn about them in their habitats, and take home some special prizes for yourself. Magical Creatures is a combination of funfilled and insightful educational program packed with: a classroom lesson, making a little magic, live animal presentations, and a take-home goody bag. www.montgomeryzoo.com

Family Art Fun (Tickets are $5 ($4 for members) and available on our website or at the door. )

Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn No matter the age you can have fun with art while learning to improve. During this class you will learn about many different watercolor techniques while creating your own masterpiece. We will start with simple techniques and work our way up. We will do an instructed lesson on how to paint with acrylics, then you will get the chance to paint whatever inspires you.

natureeducation@auburn.edu

Saturday, August 19

Walk Like MADD Auburn

8:00 AM - 12:00 PM,, 141 North Ross Street, Auburn The 2023 Walk Like MADD Auburn event is MADD’s signature fundraising event to help us raise both awareness and funds to eliminate drunk and drugged driving. We hope that you will rally with us in Auburn, AL to help create a future of No More Victims®. Register and donate TODAY to help us save more lives!

Saturday, August 26

Zoo Volunteer Serve Day

The Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery We are looking for energetic individuals who want to volunteer in a beautiful and fun place. Volunteer commitment has allowed our Zoo to improve, expand programs, generate community

FamilyCalendar

involvement and support, and assist Zoo staff in daily Zoo operations. www.montgomeryzoo.com

Every Monday

Astronomy Night Callaway Gardens Overlook Pavilion, 17800 US-27, Pine Mountain, Ga Come join us for our astronomy night. We will be at the Overlook Pavilion in the Azalea Garden (immediate left right after the Callaway main gates, follow the road to the far side of the “loop” around the parking area). We will begin our brief presentation at 9pm and then proceed to the telescopes afterwards. For this free event, we will be bringing our own telescopes to star gaze and look at planets, the Full Moon, Constellations, & more throughout the summer!

www.callawaygardens.com

Opelika Public Library Movie Mondays

10:00 AM For information, Library@opelika-al.gov

Every Tuesday

O Grows Farmers Market

8:00 AM, 1103 Glenn Street, Opelika Selling baked goods, fresh produce, and more from our local vendors every Tuesday! Opelika Grows utilizes community gardens to pursue curricular objectives that support the community challenges of hunger relief and city beautification. www.facebook.com/opelikagrows

Thrifty Tuesdays

12:00 PM - 4:00 PM, The Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, Al The Montgomery Zoo is proud to announce our summer discounted admissions promotion, THRIFTY TUESDAYS. Receive 50% OFF admissions every Tuesday afternoon, beginning June 6- July 25 (with the exception of Tuesday, July 4). Tickets must be purchased in person, 12pm (noon)4pm (Tuesdays only) in order to receive the discounted admission. This discount cannot be combined with any other discount, coupon, and/or offer. www.montgomeryzoo.com

Opelika Public Library Jr. Book Club

For more information, Library@opelika-al.gov

Every Wednesday

Opelika Public Library Baby & Me

For more information, Library@opelika-al.gov

Walk This Way Walking Club

For more information, Library@opelika-al.gov

Every Thursday

AG Heritage Park Farmer’s Market

3:00 PM - 6:00 PM,, 925 Camp Auburn Rd Hosted by the College of Agriculture, The Market features area vendors offering fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, herbs, ornamental plants and cut flowers as well as locally produced jams and jellies, baked goods, soaps, honey, goat cheese and more. www.agriculture.auburn.edu/outreach/ag-heritagepark/the-market/

Opelika Public Library Jr. Robot Crew

For more information, Library@opelika-al.gov

Every Friday

Opelika Public Library Story time

For more information, Library@opelika-al.gov

Every First and Third Friday of every month

Food Truck Friday

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

Every Saturday

Market Days on Broadway

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, 1000 Broadway, Columbus, Ga Each Saturday, the 1000-1200 blocks of Broadway host over 100 local and regional vendors. Visitors can expect to find fresh produce, home goods, jewelry, unique crafts, florals, and delicious baked goods! Market Days is the perfect Saturday activity for family, friends, and even furry pals! Join us from 9am-12pm each Saturday.

www.alwaysuptown.com/market-days

Saturdays (May 20-August 26)

City Market

8:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Town Creek Park, 1150 S. Gay Street. Auburn The Auburn Parks and Recreation Department partners with local growers and artisans for the city’s farmers market, City Market. City Market invites the community, growers and consumers alike to join us every Saturday 8 to 11 AM. The purpose of City Market is to help local farmers, growers and artists to sell their fresh, local and handmade products to community members.

www.facebook.com/citymarketauburnal

Every Sundays

Super Sunday Rides

2:00 PM through Sunday, July 2, 2023 Chewacla State Park, 124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn Sponsored by Central Alabama Mountain Pedalers (CAMP). Join CAMP in the second parking lot at Chewacla State Park. These are casual rides that are organized on the spot based on what rider levels show up. Rides generally split between faster, more skilled riders and beginner, intermediate riders. Let them know where your comfortable riding and they’ll get you with the right group! Kids of all ages are welcome. Helmets required.

www.facebook.com/CAMP.SORBA/

July 28-29

Friends of the Libraries BIG Book Sale Columbus Public Library, 3000 Macon Rd, Columbus, Ga. Readers rejoice! Stock up on books by bestselling authors, cozy mysteries, suspenseful thrillers, delightful children’s books, and much more, with books priced at $2 or less. All proceeds from the sale support many of the programs and services offered by the Chattahoochee Valley Libraries.

July 14-30

Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus, Ga It’s not easy being a Pigeon. You never get to do ANYTHING! But when the Bus Driver takes a break from his route, perhaps there is only one hero who could possibly save the day. Whatever you do, don’t let the Pigeon star in his own musical production. Featuring a combination of puppets, songs and feathers, this comedic drive will be sure to get your toes a’tapping and wings a’flapping.

www.springeroperahouse.org/springerproductions/ dont-let-the-pigeon-drive-the-bus

July 21-23

Alabama Back-to-School Sales Tax Holiday

12:00 AM 18th annual sales tax holiday for schoolrelated items begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 21, 2023, and ends at midnight Sunday, July 23, 2023, giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, books and clothing free of the state’s four percent sales or use tax.

www.alabamaretail.org/resources/salestaxholidays/ back-to-school/

July 26-30

Lake Martin Songwriter’s Fesitval 2023

Various locations in Dadeville and Alexander City The multi-day songwriter’s festival features over 20 artists at multiple venues ranging from intimate listening rooms to spacious outdoor stages all around Alabama’s Treasured Lake, Lake Martin.

www.lakemartinsongwritersfestival.com

July 29-30

Explore the World with Zoo Atlanta

Zoo Atlanta, 800 Cherokee Avenue SE, Atlanta, Ga Experience the dynamic cultures and rich biodiversity that surround us. Travel from Africa to the Americas, and from Europe to Asia and the Pacific, via special entertainment and activities for the entire family. Help us celebrate our world’s amazing wildlife and the beautiful places they call home.

www.zooatlanta.org/event/wild-world-weekend/

August 5-30

Itty Bitty Auburn (FREE to the public)

It’s time to break out the thinking caps and magnifying glasses for Itty Bitty Auburn in celebration of Alabama’s birthday! Beginning Tuesday, August 1st, participants can pick up a worksheet for the scavenger hunt at any Parks and Recreation facility or find it on the City of Auburn website, printed in select newspapers and on Facebook. The worksheet features 20 itty-bitty sites in various locations around Auburn. Participants will find these sites and find a clue inside each location. A successful scavenger hunt will reveal a special phrase which participants will need to log their win! All participants must “register” by Thursday, August 31 at 11:59 p.m. Those who compile all 20 clues and discover the phrase will be entered into the Grand Prize drawing.

www.auburnalabama.org

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

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

Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse

Miles Morales is struggling to adjust to life as Spider-Man – and then Gwen reappears and takes him into the multiverse where they meet a team of SpiderPeople who protect every universe. As Miles learns more about the multiverse, he starts to question what it means to be a hero. The original Spider-Verse film was a groundbreaking work of animation, and this movie is even better. The animation is dazzling and the plot, although darker than the first film, remains satisfying. Spidey fans of all ages will find lots to enjoy here

Transformers: Rise of the Beasts

The Maximals (giant transforming metal creatures) are on a mission to prevent Unicron (a planet-consuming entity) from finding a transwarp key. This device allows the user to transport instantaneously across the galaxy and it has been hidden on Earth. There’s little doubt how this story will play out or how it will end. Fans will appreciate the detailed action sequences and parents can be assured that the violence remains within PG-13 limits. By no definition does this qualify as great cinema, but it ’s one of the better films in the franchise. Photo ©Paramount Pictures

The Little Mermaid

Young mermaid Ariel is fascinated by the human world and handsome Prince Eric, who she saved from drowning. When Ursula the Sea Witch gives her a chance to live on land, Ariel takes it – but she doesn’t fully realize the price she’ll have to pay. Halle Bailey gives a star turn as Ariel and the movie provides Eric with a deeper backstory, but the film sti ll feels soulless. This isn’t a vibrant, magical tale: it feels like a bland, bloated cash grab on the part of Disney That won’t stop kids from enjoying it but it may frustrate parents. Photo ©Walt Disney Studios Motion Pictures.

Rally

A slow loris (a small mammal related to monkeys) named Zhi is thrilled when his car-racing idol, Archi Vainglorious, comes to his hometown and is then outraged to learn that Vainglorious wants to buy and bulldoze Zhi’s grand ma’s home. The two make a deal: if Zhi wins the Silk Road Rally, Grannie’s home is his. Packed with crazy driving and stuffed full of positive messages, this is an innocuous cartoon that will be enjoyed by kids and, mi raculously, not loathed by parents Photo ©Viva Kids

The Boogeyman

Psychiatrist Will Harper has a new patient with a story about the deaths of his three kids, caused by a monstrous creature preying on children in the dark. When the patient dies, Will’s daughters start seeing something in the night Based on a Stephen King story, this is a creepy tale with good acting, solid dialogue, and a monster that relies more on imagination than gory effects . Parents should be aware of a scene of teen marijuana use but the movie is otherwise suitable for adolescents. Photo ©20th Century Studios

Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com

With summer here, do you have any special trips or activities planned for the family?

We spend most summer weekends at Lake Martin where we love boating and the kids love to swim. It’s a chance for us to meet up with family and friends to relax. We also enjoy going to Destin and traveling to the Caribbean Islands. Our favorite island is Grand Cayman, which is a quick 2 1/2 hour flight and is very kidfriendly. If we are in town, my boys love playing mini golf at Tiger Town Sports. We are taking

AOP: What is the most rewarding part of motherhood for you?

AH: Our boys are only 15 months apart - Noah (4) and Jonah (3). They amaze me every day with their close bond and discoveries. They have taught me to be more patient, more loving and much more appreciative of every moment we have together as a family.

AOP: How do you balance being a mother and pursuing your personal goals?

AH: I work for Auburn Hospitality as the Senior Director of Sales. I’m passionate about my career and about being the best wife and mother to my boys. I’m truly blessed with an amazing company that incorporates a family-work life balance, helping me fulfill both.

AOP: How do you handle difficult situations with your children?

AH: With two boys so close in age they are constantly wrestling and testing us as parents. We try and stay calm, make sure Noah and Jonah feel heard and reward good behavior.

AOP: What are some ways you reward and positively reinforce good behavior with your boys?

AH: It can be a simple as offering praise or a special trip to the playground.

AOP: How do you handle feeling overwhelmed or stressed?

AH: Self-care is important in how I handle stress. I like to wait until I have put the kids to bed to take some “me” time every night. I also try and exercise twice a week.

AOP: How do you stay connected with your husband while being a mother to two young children?

AH: Patrick and I have a date night at least once every 2 weeks if possible. We also take time at the end of each day to talk.

AOP: What is the most important lesson you have learned so far as a mother?

AH: Give grace to yourself and to your children. We all need a learning curve as we figure out new ages and stages. By extending grace to yourself and to your children, they learn how to extend grace and forgiveness to themselves and to others.

AOP: What is something you have learned about yourself through motherhood?

AH: Thinking about everything that my brain and body has been through in the past four years just blows my mind. I’ve learned both the physical and emotional strengths I never knew I had. I have grown two humans, nourished them, kept them safe, fed, clean, entertained and loved. I’ve wiped tears, juggled plans, ran to doctor’s appointments and pulled all nighters. I’ve had moments of emotions, exhaustion and then complete triumph, all with only the help of my husband. We were made for this, and not until motherhood do we realize how strong we really are.

AOP: Knowing what you know now, what is one piece of advice you would tell your younger self?

AH: Nothing will actually prepare you for everything you will encounter as a mom. No parenting books, college courses or mom blogs. Everyone has different experiences because every child is different. So, learn as you go, seek the advice of others who have been there and be confident that you’ll always figure it out.

AOP: What is the most important lesson you hope to teach your children?

AH: Instilling kindness and compassion matters most to me.

Ashley and Patrick Harvill will be celebrating their ten year wedding anniversary next April. While both attended and graduated from Auburn University, living only a few townhouses apart, they didn’t meet until later in Orange Beach. Together they have two boys and a Boykin Spaniel named Lola. Ashley works for Auburn Hospitality as the Senior Director of Sales and Patrick is the Assistant Engineer for Lee County.

DID YOU KNOW?

Parents are the leading influence in a child's decision not to drink alcohol!

Since our brain does not finish fully developing until our mid-twenties, children and young adults don't always receive proper education on how alcohol negatively impacts them.

BEFORE THEY GO BACK TO SCHOOL...

Teach your toddler to not accept anything from a stranger and to only drink from their cup.

*Some things are not meant to be shared.

Don't drink alcohol in front of your children.

Make a safety plan with a safety word at an early age and encourage them when they get older to do the same before they go out with friends.

Encourage your teen to stay focused on their goals and discuss with them how alcohol can hinder their future.

If they do choose to socialize with others who are drinking, remind them not to get in the vehicle with a driver who has had even one drink.

WHERE DO I START?

Prevention works!

It's never too early to talk to your children about the dangers of underage drinking.

Show that you care about your child's mental health, safety and their success by creating a trusting relationship with them.

Though, you may not think your child will engage in drinking, build up their skills and strategies on avoiding alcohol, peer pressure can be powerful!

Family & Children's Services

Providing behavioral and mental health services to families & children in Lee, Russell, Chambers, and Tallapoosa Counties.