Auburn Opelika Parents Newcomers Guide Issue (June 2024)

Celebrating Dads

Publisher’sNote

Let me be one of the first to officially welcome you to the Loveliest Village on The Plains! You have chosen a wonderful place to work, raise your family, and grow your business. Auburn and Opelika have thriving and growing neighborhoods, quaint downtown areas with shopping and gathering venues, and a network of local entrepreneurs and creatives. Here, you will find some of the best schools in the South for your children and college students. Among the small-town vibe, you’ll also find modern amenities like the ever-evolving theatre and arts, museums, technology and business industries, and advanced medical centers. East Alabama is quickly growing and changing with its diversity and culture, too. Living here, your family will find so many ways to explore all this area has to offer, and throughout each season, there is always something new.

This summer, meet your neighbors and local business owners at outdoor events in Auburn and Opelika. From music in the park to arts and crafts fairs in the downtown streets, your family will enjoy the laidback community vibe that is endearing to East Alabama. Be sure to attend SummerNight 2024 in Auburn and Food Truck Fridays in Opelika. These events are wonderful additions to summer evenings in our small towns.

If you have small children and need to find fun places to play, add the Town Creek Playground and the Municipal Park to your list of places to get outside and explore. Also, the Hey Day Market, near Auburn’s campus, has a new putt-putt course on the lawn for a round of fun for the whole family. Just up the road is the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, which offers fun nature tours for groups, hands-on learning, and summer camps for the little ones.

Do you need a place to cool off? Exciting swimming experiences are coming to Opelika! They have built a large outdoor pool with multiple water features like splash pads and water slides. Or, splash into summer with a family movie in the pool and under the stars at Auburn’s Samford pool. Make sure to check out both Auburn and Opelika Parks and Recreation swimming opportunities, including swim lessons, swim teams, family events, sports, arts, theatre, and more classes and activities.

Looking to cool off indoors and add some summer learning to your week? The Opelika Public Library and Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers will host story times, movie moments, book clubs, crafting afternoons, and more. Summer learning is always a great choice. Two of the biggest summer events in our area are our 4th of July fireworks celebrations. Yes, Lee County has two! Check out the Family Calendar for the sparkling details.

When things start cooling off and the first signs of fall are in the air, Auburn becomes a bustling area full of excitement and cries of “War Eagle”. Auburn football in the fall is a uniquely wonderful experience! Stock up on toilet paper and prepare to roll Toomer’s Corner with thousands of your friends and neighbors. Fall Saturdays down South are contagious, and before long, you’ll be a Tiger fan too.

Welcome to Auburn and Opelika! We hope your family finds a great home and neighborhood and feels welcome in East Alabama. As you settle in, reach out to local businesses and resources for all your family’s needs. From one parent to another, get exploring and get involved, and soon, you will feel right at home on The Plains!

Kendra

Opelika

Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher

Kendra Sumner

Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Editor

DeAnne Watson

Contributing Writers

Kristi Bush, LSW

Beth N. Davis

Rebecca Hastings

Gabriele Jones Works of Wonder Therapy

Cover Photography

Matthan Brown

Matthan Brown Photography www.matthanbrownphoto.com

President Jason Watson

Director of Sales

Justin Sumner (334) 209-0552

Ad Design

Tim Welch

Web Content Manager Scott Davis

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 475 Bennington Ct, Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 329-8073 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2024 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

71ST ANNUAL

PRESENTED BY OPELIKA PARKS AND RECREATION

WEDNESDAY, JULY 3RD

6:30 P.M. | FIREWORKS AT DARK OPELIKA HIGH SCHOOL TRACK

CELEBRATE INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH OPELIKA PARKS AND RECREATION. FIREWORKS, SILVER WINGS, HAMBURGERS, HOTDOGS, MUSIC BY ROUTE 66 AND ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY.

How Social Media is Shaping Your Children

Our children, no matter what age, soak up everything. They are sponges that absorb their friends, celebrities, social media, television shows, and movies. For the most part, mature adults can separate the good from the bad and right from the wrong. Most importantly, adults can separate facts from opinions. Children are not capable of this type of critical thinking. Children take opinions and solidify them as facts. Their brains naturally seek information that confirms their new beliefs, and this is the danger young minds face when using social media.

Dr. Michael Workman, Associate Professor of Technology Management at Texas A&M, conducted a study to determine if social media can change our opinions. “We found that when people are seeking new information about a topic, social media can change their minds,” Workman said. “But if they have already decided on something, say politics or religion, they mostly seek information to confirm what they already be-

believe. This phenomenon is referred to as “the echo chamber effect”.

So why is this important to parents? This research reveals that it is vital for parents to build a solid foundation of morals, values, and beliefs before allowing their children to access social media. If you do not take the time to sit down and talk to your children about the important issues in the world today, social media will form your children’s opinions without any input from you.

I hear opinions shared as fact consistently from children, pre-teens, and teens. Even when I provide evidence to the contrary, they do not believe me and are unwilling to listen to the truth. Do you remember when you were 12 and knew everything, only to mature and realize that you knew nothing? The terrifying fact is that the youth of today have an “echo chamber” to confirm every juvenile opinion they have. As parents, we must ensure that our children are well grounded before we open their minds up to the terrifying world of social media.

Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country

Dr.

SummerNight Downtown Art Walk

The SummerNight Downtown Art Walk, June 7, 6:00-10:00pm, is an arts festival that transforms downtown Auburn into its very own arts district, featuring the work of local and regional artists, live musicians, great food and children’s activities. During this event, downtown merchants and restaurants remain open after regular business hours and people of all ages are encouraged to take advantage of this great opportunity to shop, dine and relax while enjoying the arts in downtown Auburn. Artists have works on display and live musical entertainment is provided. Make sure to bring your children too as they have an opportunity to participate in arts and crafts, as well as enjoy other attractions that change each year! Don’t miss out on this great, familyfriendly experience in downtown Auburn! SummerNight is free to the public and open to all ages. www.auburnsummernight.org

Touch-a-Truck in Downtown Opelika

Vehicles of all types will line the street of downtown Opelika, on June 8, 9:00am12:00noon, at this fun family event. Kids of all ages can come and explore military vehicles, race cars, dump trucks, and more. Admission is free, and visitors are encouraged to touch and go inside the vehicles. For more info, visit their Facebook account linked above! www. opelikamainstreet.org/signature-events/touch-a-truck

Burger Wars

The 10th annual hamburger grilling competition is sponsored by Opelika Rotary Foundation, the non-profit arm of Opelika Rotary and Happy Hour Rotary Club! All are welcome to participate in the event on June 8, 11:00am2:00pm in Downtown Opelika. Whether you’re a professional, a business or just a master at a backyard cookout, enter your burger and put your grilling skills to the test. While guests enjoy tasting burgers, judges will taste and rate burgers throughout the day, and winners in the three grilling categories. www.facebook.com/burgerwarsopelika

City Market on Saturdays

City Market invites the community, growers, and consumers alike to join us every Saturday from May to August 31 from 8:00- 11:00 a.m. Each Saturday at Town Creek Park in Auburn, you will be sure to find something new from local farmers and artisans. The purpose of City Market is to help local farmers, growers and artists to sell their fresh, local and handmade products to community members. , 1150 South Gay Street, Auburn. www.facebook.com/citymarketauburnal/

Science on Saturday: Raptors

Auburn University’s Southeastern Raptor Center will visit the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, June 15, 10:00am, to show you some of these incredible birds, up-close and in-person. The program will include a variety of live raptors, most native to Alabama, and you will learn all about their habitat, natural history, and the challenges facing these majestic creatures. Tickets are $5 ($4 for members) children 3 and under are free. 2222 North College Street, Auburn. natureeducation@auburn.edu

Summer Swing: Route 66: June 11

For over 39 years this horn-driven group of local professionals has been delivering their eclectic mix of Soul, R&B, Motown, Rock Classics and Americana in the styles of Marvin Gaye, Sam & Dave, Al Green, Van Morrison and many others. The Opelika Band Boosters will prepare hamburgers and hotdogs for a nominal fee from 6:15-7:30 p.m., ideal for a family picnic. The Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train with long, rich history gives complimentary rides from 6:307:00 p.m. Come out early! Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the bank of Rocky Brook Creek at Municipal Park in Opelika for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation. www.opelika-al.gov/544/Park-Bench-Activity-Guide

Father’s Day at the Zoo

A big thank you to all the dads out there. With much gratitude and appreciation of your dedicated and loyal service to our sons and daughters, please celebrate Father’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum on June 16. All Dads receive FREE admission to the Montgomery Zoo and the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Join us for Dad’s special day. Admission includes: Admission to the Zoo and the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum, Entry to Parakeet Cove, Entry to Waters of the World, Entry to the Reptile Facility, Special zookeeper talk at 11:30am and 1:30pm. 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery. www.montgomeryzoo.com

Save the Date to Celebrate

Opelika’s Freedom Celebration- July 3. Join the Opelika Parks & Recreation and Opelika community at the Freedom Celebration at Opelika High School. 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

Auburn’s Independence Day Celebration- July 4. Enjoy great food and treats for purchase while listening to amazing music from a live band and D.J. FREE inflatables. Special Guest AUBIE. Behind Duck Samford Stadium, gates open at 5:00 p.m - Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/4th-of-july/

Family Splash at Samford Pool

Bring your family and friends to the Samford Pool, June 15, 10:30am-4:30pm, because admission is FREE all day long. Make sure to sign up for the cannon ball contests and belly flop contests and be sure to participate in lifeguard bingo. Registration is required for the cannon ball and bellyflop contests only. Call (334) 501-2940 for information.

History Came Alive for Lee Scott Academy

4th Grade students at Lee Scott Academy had a great day stepping back into history and visiting the State Capitol building and the First White House of the Confederacy in Montgomery.

AHS Golf Teams Advance to State

Auburn High School Honors Excellence and Leadership

The Tiger Battalion at Auburn High School celebrated the outstanding achievements of cadets in JROTC during their 2024 Awards Day Ceremony. ACS recognizes the dedication, discipline, and commitment of the JROTC program students, who were presented with well-deserved accolades for their remarkable contributions to leadership and excellence. From exemplary drill performances to commendable displays of teamwork and service, these cadets embody the spirit of honor, integrity, and selflessness. Congratulations to all the award winners, and a special thank you to the instructors and families. Your guidance and support have been instrumental in nurturing these young leaders. ACS is grateful for their service and commitment to our community and country!

The Auburn High School Varsity Boys and Girls Golf teams finished in 1st place at the sectional tournament in Enterprise. Will Scott was low medalist for the boys shooting a 71, and Kate Ha was low medalist for the girls shooting a 72. Both teams now advance to Sub-State. GO TIGERS!

Spring Market in Bloom at LSA

Spring time in Kindergarten means a Spring Market for shoppers once again. Spring pennies, earned for hard work and good behavior all semester long, were spent on bird feeders, snacks, and gifts for others throughout the classroom.

ACS Recognizes Ambassadors, Artists, and TOTY

During the April 2024 Auburn City Schools Board of Education meeting, the Board recognized the AHS Ambassadors, student artists, and Teachers of the Year. Shiloh Lora, a seventh grader at East Samford School, was honored for winning the Middle School division of the Youth Art Month (YAM) Flag Design competition for the state of Alabama. During the State Superintendent’s Visual Art Exhibit recognition, 20 ACS students and their art teachers were celebrated for competing at the state level. Three of the students placed in the SSVAE: Eli Kiser, a fifth grader at Pick Elementary, won “Best of Show” for the elementary division, Shiloh Lora placed 2nd in the 7-8 Division, and Cedar Linhoss, a third grader at Ogletree Elementary, placed 3rd in the 3-4 Division. ACS is thankful for the 14 outstanding individuals who were named Teachers of the Year for the 20232024 school year. With administrators sharing kind words about each one, it was a great display of the educational excellence in our schools!

Opelika’s Marching Band Invited to Walt Disney World

OCS is proud of the Spirit of the South Marching Band from Opelika High School. They were invited to march down Main Street! Spirit of the South Marching Band enjoyed parading down Main Street in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World.

ACS Recognized Artwork Winners

The City of Auburn’s Water Resource Management Department recently recognized the winners of their storm drain marker contest. The artwork of 15 ACS students was selected as winners and turned into markers for storm drains throughout Auburn. This initiative, sponsored by the Lee County Sunrise Rotary Club, is a significant step in our community’s efforts to protect our local waterways. The markers serve as a visual reminder that what goes into storm drains will ultimately matriculate into local creeks, streams, and other waterways. The students’ drawings, with their clear message that only rain should go down storm drains, are a powerful testament to the importance of this project. Congratulations to the following talented student artists:

Pick Elementary School

3rd Grade – Addison Rich / 4th Grade – Avanita Deepak

5th Grade – Rae Kwak

Yarbrough Elementary School

3rd Grade - Reagan Cooper

4th Grade - Leighton Sprayberry

5th Grade - Jason Hong

Ogletree Elementary School

3rd Grade - Alyssa Hu / 4th Grade - Audrey June

5th Grade - Aurielie Mehren

Creekside Elementary School

3rd Grade - Sallie Grace Owens / 4th Grade - Eric Wang

5th Grade - Joyce Ro

Wrights Mill Elementary School

3rd Grade - Charlotte Faircloth / 4th Grade - Ilana Ahlzadeh / 5th Grade - Eleanor Lumpkin

ACS thanks everyone involved in this effort to provide students the opportunity to enhance their community!

Lee-Scott Academy Band Competes at Dollywood

The Lee-Scott Academy Band had their annual spring band trip up to Pigeon Forge, Tennessee and competed at “Music in the Parks” at Dollywood! Once again, under the incredible leadership of Mr. Hudson, the band cleaned up in awards and trophies. Among their successes, the band was awarded a Superior rating and first overall in the concert & jazz band divisions. Additionally, they were also named first place as the overall concert band across all divisions. Congratulations to Mr. Hudson and all of these talented students!!

AHS Band Performed in Festival Parade in D.C.

What an incredible weekend it was for Auburn High School as the Marching Band performed during the prestigious National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade in Washington, D.C.! The passion, dedication, and musical prowess shone brightly as more than 170 AHS students marched through the capital, showcasing the talent and spirit of Auburn to America. While in the nation’s capital, students had the opportunity to tour museums, memorials, and monuments including experiencing the changing of the guard at Arlington National Cemetery. Marking the second appearance in the Cherry Blossom Festival Parade for AHSMB, ACS couldn’t be prouder of the students and band directors for another amazing performance!

DMS Annual Book It 5K Was a Success

J.F. Drake Middle School’s 6th Annual Book It For Drake 5K and Fun Run was an incredible success! With a mission to support professional development, enhance technology, and enrich classroom libraries, students and community members came together as 112 runners blazed through the one-mile race, and 237 conquered the 5K challenge. Thanks to the contributions from sponsorships, general donations, race entries, and day-of registrations, the event raised $31,000! This remarkable sum will directly empower DMS’s educational initiatives and create more opportunities for growth and learning. ACS thanks everyone who participated, volunteered, and supported this meaningful cause!

WMRE Thanks Local Law Enforcement

Wrights Mill Road Elementary School hosted local law enforcement agencies for a heartwarming First Responder Breakfast. Officers and deputies kicked their day off with a spread of fruit, bagels, and piping hot coffee generously provided by WMR’s PTO and staff. Seeing them enjoy a well-deserved meal before they started their duties was a joy.

After fueling up, they jumped into the day by opening car doors and greeting students with big smiles and high fives! Their presence highlighted safety and security, as well as warmth and connection to the ACS community. ACS expresses a heartfelt thank you to all first responders for their unwavering dedication to keeping our community safe, and the profound commitment to children’s well-being is sincerely appreciated!

ACS Students Compete in 2024 Special Olympics Alabama

Auburn City Schools students showcased their talent, determination, and spirit during the 2024 Special Olympics Alabama- Lee County Track Meet! From the field to the track, ACS students gave it their all, inspiring others with their courage and resilience. Whether sprinting toward the finish line or cheering for their classmates, each participant showed the true meaning of sportsmanship and camaraderie. Congratulations to all the student-athletes for their hard work and dedication! Thank you to the coaches, volunteers, families, and supporters for a fantastic event!

AP Students at LSA Tour College of Osteopathic Medicine

Students in AP Literature and AP Biology, along with Dr. Tyree, were given a special tour of the Edward Via College of Osteopathic Medicine research park on Auburn University’s campus. Students met with professors and student doctors, toured the facility and participated in sessions such as “What is Osteopathic Medicine?,” “How to Treat a Patient in Distress,” and “The Interplay of the Nervous System and our Emotions and Faith.” They also were able to perform experiments in a lab setting. We are so grateful to Dr. Kari Dugger, VCOM professionals and those that participated in making this such a meaningful experience for our students! It’s one we hope they do not soon forget.

St. Michael Catholic 1st Graders

Measure Up

Mrs. Milana’s 1st graders concluded their measurement unit by comparing their shoe size to items around the room. Students found items that were shorter, longer, and about the same length as their shoe as their form of measurement! To celebrate being such great learners, they had popsicles on the playground!

TCS Students Learn About Medical Field

Mrs. Battles’s first grade class studied contractions and practiced forming them in a creative unit called, “Contraction Surgery”. The students enjoyed dressing up like doctors and learning about different parts of the medical field.

Earth Day

Celebration at LSA

2nd Grade celebrated Earth Day. Students learned all about how each year, Earth Day is celebrated on April 22nd. Through different stations, groups of students learned about bugs, animals, bees, how plants affect our planet, the harm pollution causes, and even made their own water filters. It was a beautiful day to be outside and celebrate Earth Day on earth! Thank you to all of our guests and parent volunteers that helped coordinate this day!

AHS Varsity Tennis Team Runner Up at State

The Auburn High School Varsity Girls Tennis team finished as Runner-Up in the 2024 AHSAA 7A State Championship. This team’s dedication and talent have consistently showcased their prowess on the court throughout their high school careers. For four consecutive years, the seniors on this team have either clinched the State Championship title (2021 and 2023) or secured the runner-up position (2022 and 2024). ACS congratulates the student-athletes, coaches, families, and supporters on another outstanding season!

ACS Students Compete in State Science and Engineering Fair

A group of ACS students in grades 6-12 competed in the 2024 Alabama State Science and Engineering Fair (ASEF) at Auburn University. ASEF is an affiliate fair of the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (Regeneron ISEF), the world’s largest international pre-college science competition. ISEF annually provides a forum for millions of students from more than 50 countries to showcase independent research. Several students took home prizes and category awards, including Auburn High School’s Will Bao, who won the “Best in Fair” Award. He will join three other ACS students, Annie Bao, John Parsons, and Kevin Yan, at the Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in California.

Lee-Scott Academy 6th Grade Retreat to Marannook

Lee-Scott Academy students spent a day at Camp Marannook for the annual 6th Grade Retreat.These students will have a big year next year transitioning to 7th Grade and the Middle School with Ms. Lloyd. Executive Director Taylor Teel first shared with students about the importance of unity as the body of Christ. The rest of the day was filled with team building activities like canoeing, ropes courses and obstacle challenges. These 6th Grade students are ready for their next steps together at LSA! Thanks to the staff at Camp Marannook!

SMCS Learns About Solar Eclipse

Students learned all about the solar eclipse this year. Students observed the different shadows of the trees and a colander. Our future scientists had so much fun experiencing this rare eclipse!

Send news to: Kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com.

When people with extraordinary talent and passion are given the technology, the facilities, and the support, they achieve great things. The discoveries taking place today will help shape the future of treatments and lead to cures – benefitting not only our patients and families, but people across the country and around the world for years to come.

LSA 5th Graders

Engineered Own Ozobot in STEM Class

While in STEM with Mrs. Stewart and in Technology with Mrs. Jones, 5th Graders have had an amazing opportunity to engineer their own Ozobot maze and program their Ozobots to travel through it! Students planned and created their mazes in STEM class. Some students engineered a maze with a theme and others even created tunnels for their Ozobot. Students then brought their maze to Technology class and were able to program their Ozobot to travel through every twist and turn.

St. Michael Catholic School Gets Hands-On

Ms. Goodwin’s 2nd graders have been learning about how they can assemble, disassemble, and reassemble different things! Students made a structure, drew it, disassembled it, and then tried to create their partner’s structure based on their drawing! How creative!

Opelika High Choirs Participate in Disney Imagination Studios

Students from the Opelika High Choral Department were invited to participate in the Soundtrack Sessions Workshop with Disney Imagination Studios in Epcot. They learned music from the super talented, professional recording artist and actor Ian Patrick Gibb of the Voices of Liberty and recorded a song with sound effects and voice recordings all made by them in just two hours! It was an incredible experience and they performed and represented Opelika with excellence! We are so very proud of them and thankful to Disney Imagination Studios for this awesome opportunity! What an amazing experience for the OHS Choirs at Disney Imagination Studios.

Tigers Give Back to ACS on Giving Day

In the spirit of Tiger Giving Day at Auburn University, representatives from the AU Football program went above and beyond by participating in “Tiger Give Back Day”! These special guests took time to spread joy and inspiration, creating smiles and laughter for all involved. From sharing stories of perseverance to engaging in fun activities, they truly made a positive impact on the young minds of tomorrow. Moments like this are a great reminder of the power of giving back and the importance of community involvement. ACS greatly appreciates the Tigers for going the extra mile to make a difference!

Drake Middle Drives Through the Decades

J.F. Drake Middle School proudly hosted the sixth annual ‘Driving Through the Decades’ car show, a spectacular display of over 70 vehicles spanning from the early 1900s. This event started with ten cars in 2018 and has continued to grow, promising an even more thrilling future. From Model T to Tesla, DMS students studied various automobiles in their social studies curriculum. Along the way, they learned even more about the historical events of a particular vehicle before presenting it to guests and other students. Through this car show, students experience a visual and tangible way of bringing history to life. ACS would like to thank the visionaries of this event, Social Studies Teacher Beverly Helm and car enthusiast Tom Spicer, as well as the local car clubs, for making Driving Through the Decades a successful and engaging learning opportunity for students!

St. Michael Catholic Learn Tech Skills

Kindergarten worked on tech skills in library. Appropriate use of technology is so important! The lesson on tech ended with coloring Bible stories. What stories do you recognize in these pictures?

a positive influence

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

1 Timothy 4:12

tcsopelika.org

Trinity Christian School Students Take Field Trip Back in Time

2nd Grade’s field trip to Pioneer Park in Loachapoka enhanced their studies of pioneer times and reading of “Little House on the Prairie”.

ACS Students Learn About Dinosaurs

Auburn City Schools students had the incredible opportunity to journey back millions of years as they ventured into the fascinating world of Erth’s Dinosaur Zoo Live at the Jay and Susie Gogue Performing Arts Center (GPAC). With hearts full of wonder and eyes wide with amazement, students were transported to a time when giants roamed the Earth. Through lifelike puppetry and engaging storytelling, they witnessed the awe-inspiring spectacle of prehistoric creatures coming to life right before their eyes! Today was not just a trip to the theater but an educational adventure filled with laughter, excitement, and unforgettable memories. ACS thanks the GPAC for hosting our schools and making this captivating experience a reality!

LSA Athletes Chosen for All-Star Teams

Congratulations to these four Warriors for making the Junior & Senior All-Star teams selected by the AISA Coaches Association! Coach Deese and these players will participate in the 2024 AISA Softball AllStar Event at Lagoon Park in Montgomery. Congratulations, Warriors!

Trinity Christian School Tennis Wins

TCS Tennis AISA Boys Tennis State Champions.

LSA Pre-K Learn About the Letter U

Underneath the umbrella of learning, our Pre-K students embraced “Umbrella Day”. From a whimsical parade through the Upper School to see high school “undergraduates” and uncovering the United States flag, there were plenty of words that start with “U” to be found! Not to mention, the number of unique individuals found along the way.

LSA Football Program Awarded

Congratulations to the Lee-Scott Football program for receiving the EAGLES Program Student’s Choice Award at the annual EAGLES Employment Awards Luncheon. Coach Daniel, Coach Ozment and the entire team were recognized and given this award today in appreciation of their ability to create an inclusive environment for Auburn University student videographer, Bryson, this year! Bryson, a second year EAGLES student in the Sports and Recreation Management concentration, was a wonderful addition to the Warriors and did a fantastic job filming practices, games, and supporting the program on their quest to capture a second straight state championship. The Education to Accomplish Growth in Life Experiences for Success (EAGLES) is a comprehensive transition program for students with intellectual disabilities at Auburn University. Students in the program receive an inclusive postsecondary education providing them with an enriching and rewarding Auburn experience as they prepare to transition to gainful employment, that aligns with the student’s strengths and interests and independent living.

Happy Earth Day from SMCS

We are so thankful God gave us this beautiful Earth and will always do our best to care for it.

Auburn Classical Academy Celebrates Spring Showcase

ACA held our annual Spring Showcase alongside families and friends. The work and diligence our students carry throughout the academic year was evident and fruitful as each grade presented. A very big “job well done” to each and every ACA student! We are so very, very proud of each of you!

Congratulations to the 2024 Opelika High Killgore Scholars

Twelve OHS Seniors were awarded Killgore Scholarships on April 23 and honored with a reception at the high school. Honorees were joined by family members, school administrators, city leaders and board of education members. Pictured (l-r): Chuck Beams-OCS Board of Education member, Kelli FischerOHS Principal, Tim Aja-Opelika City Council, Mayor Gary Fuller, Honorees: Brayden Wilson, Peyton Weston, Kenneth Frazier, Devam Patel, Nolen Wilson, Parker Killcreas, Hannah Huling, Michael Constance, Atticus O’Banner, and Caden Blair, Patsy Parker-OCS Board of Education member, Farrell Seymore-OCS Superintendent, Erica Baker-Norris-Opelika City Council, and Tipi MillerOCS Board of Education. Not pictured-Anita Duncan. Congratulations to this outstanding group of Seniors!

Growing up with a single mom, Father’s Day always felt a bit tricky. I did have a relationship with my biological dad, but we were not very close. Instead of limiting the person we honored on Father’s Day to him, my mom taught me how to honor people who had a father-like role in my life.

I’ve been blessed to honor five other men who carried that role in my life. For me, this was an uncle, a grandfather, and a step-father who later adopted me. When I got married, I added my father-in-law, and finally my husband as the father of our kids. The beauty of Father’s Day doesn’t have to be limited to one person. Instead, we can recognize the contributions of people who are fatherly in our lives and our children’s lives. As we approach Father’s Day this year, you can recognize and celebrate all the dads in your life.

Honoring Your Dad

The most obvious person to celebrate is your own father. No matter why you consider this person your dad, you can use this day to honor them for the role they play in your life. Consider these ideas to honor your dad:

Personalized Gifts: Consider giving your dad a personalized gift that reflects his interests and hobbies. It could be a custom-made item, engraved with a meaningful message or his initials.

Cook His Favorite Meal: Prepare your dad’s favorite meal for dinner. It’s a thoughtful way to show him how much you care.

Memory Jar: Encourage family members to write down their favorite memories or messages for your dad and place them in a decorative jar. Present it to him as a keepsake and reminisce about some favorite memories.

Meaningful Ways to Celebrate a Grandfather

Grandfathers have a unique role in their grandchildren’s lives. Sometimes they

are part of your daily life. Other times, grandfathers live far away or there are other limits to how often you connect. Father’s Day is still a great time to remind them of how much you care. Here are some ways you or your children can honor a Grandfather:

Handwritten Letter or Card: Express your gratitude and love for your grandfather in a heartfelt letter or card. Share specific memories or qualities you admire about him.

Family Gathering: Organize a family get-together or a special meal to honor your grandfather. It could be a barbecue, coffee date, or dinner at his favorite restaurant.

Photo Album or Scrapbook: Create a photo album or scrapbook filled with pictures of your grandfather, family gatherings, and memorable moments together.

Ideas for Celebrating a Father-Like Relative

Many times people have a relative like an uncle step into a fatherly role. This could be because a father is absent or simply because they care and want to show their love and support. Recognize them on Father’s Day with one of these ideas:

Gift Basket: Put together a gift basket filled with his favorite snacks, drinks, books, or hobbies. Tailor it to his interests and preferences.

Outdoor Adventure: Plan an outdoor activity that your loved one enjoys, such as fishing, hiking, or a stroll in the park. Spend quality time together in nature.

Video Message: If you cannot be with your uncle in person, consider recording a video message to send him on Father’s Day. Share your love and appreciation for him in a heartfelt video.

Ideas for Celebrating Your Spouse

Watching your husband become a father impacts you and your children for a lifetime. Consider how you can make him feel special and loved for all he does. Think about ways you can show him you appreciate him, as well as ways your kids can show him that they love him.

Breakfast in Bed: Start his day off with a special breakfast served in bed. Prepare his favorite dishes and include a handwritten note or card expressing your love and appreciation.

Family Outing: Plan a fun family outing or activity that your husband enjoys. It could be a trip to the zoo, a hike in nature,

a visit to his favorite museum, or a picnic in the park.

DIY Gifts: Get creative and make DIY gifts together with your kids to surprise your husband. It could be homemade cards, crafts, or personalized photo albums that capture special family moments.

Tech-Free Day: Declare a tech-free day where the focus is on spending quality time together as a family. Disconnect from devices and engage in activities like board games, completing a project, or outdoor adventures.

Family Movie Night: Set up a cozy movie night at home with your husband’s favorite films, snacks, and blankets. Spend the evening cuddled up together enjoying quality family time.

Surprise Getaway: Plan a surprise weekend getaway or staycation for your husband and the family. This is a great way to unwind and create new memories together.

Express Appreciation: Throughout the day, verbally express your apprecia tion for your husband’s role as a father and partner. Let him know how much he means to you and how grateful you are for everything he does for the family.

Rebecca traded the classroom for writing when she stayed home with her three children. Passionate about authenticity, faith, and family, she now writes regularly at www.myinkdance.com. Her first book, Worthy, is available on Amazon.

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.

2300 Center Hills Drive Bldg. II Opelika, Alabama 36801 (334) 742-2112 For New Services & 24 hour Outreach (334) 742-2877 1 (800) 815-0630

As a full-time working woman with two active kids, Amy Tatum tries to keep her dinner options simple. It may be June but she still reaches for the good old crockpot to act as her sous chef while at work. This month’s Dinner’s Ready recipe will be ready by the time you return home from work or a fun day out with the family.

“As a solo parent with kids active in dance and soccer, you can imagine how busy each week is. Going from the dance studio to soccer fields year-round makes for interesting weeknights,” said Amy. “So, when I found this easy recipe, and I could cook on Sunday or even right after work on Monday for the week, I decided to give it a try. Crockpot Salsa Chicken has become one of our go-to recipes because it is good, easy to make, and versatile in its presentation.”

Amy’s husband, Dewight, passed unexpectedly when her children were young. She shared that he was the love of her life and that he would be so proud of who their children are becoming. Tristan (17) and Mia (13) are helpful, driven, and very active in extracurricular activities - not just soccer and dance but also programs that give back to their communities.

“I think it is so important to soak in each moment - from the little to the big things,” Amy said. “The loss of my husband and my oldest launching to adulthood in a year has taught me to truly take it all in and enjoy each blessing.”

Amy is a Marriage and Family Therapist who has worked with children and their families for two decades. She recently stepped into the Mental Health Services Coordinator position for Opelika City

Schools and loves it. When she isn’t working, you can find her reading or at the beach.

“Tristan, Mia, and I love to travel together. We have such a good time exploring new destinations or just visiting our favorite vacation spots,” said Amy. “Something that has become somewhat of a tradition while on vacation is finding new donut shops! We all love donuts, and it has become a fun way to explore and enjoy local donut shops at each new stop! We even plan stops around our favorite donut shops on our way to and from Kanakuk Kamps each summer, where the kids spend summer camp!”

“This recipe is great because you can serve over rice as a rice bowl, in tortillas as a taco, over tortilla chips with lettuce, cheese, and other toppings, as a salad, or by itself with a few tortilla chips and more,” Amy explained. “I love eating it as a rice bowl. I often add shredded cheese, guacamole, and sour cream to my bowl; it is perfect for lunch the next day! My daughter loves eating it with tortilla chips or as a soft taco!”

• 1 oz package of Taco Seasoning

• ½ pack of dried Ranch Seasoning

• ½ to a whole jar of salsa

• Salt and Pepper to taste

• Garlic Powder to taste

• Optional Garnishes: Tortillas (hard and/ or soft), Tortilla Chips, Rice, Sour Cream, Shredded Cheese, avocados, lettuce, fresh lime juice, etc.

• Bonus: Homemade Guacamole: use 2-3 ripe avocados peeled, scooped, and mashed. Add salt and lemon or lime juice to taste. Mix and serve!

Place the chicken breasts (they can be frozen), the canned vegetables, taco and ranch seasonings and salsa in the crock pot. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 4-6 hours (I usually cook on high

pot and allow to cook for another twenty minutes. Once the chicken has finished cooking, you may serve it.

Garnish as you like but don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lime juice.

Crockpot Salsa Chicken

Ingredients:

• 2-4 Boneless Chicken Breasts (depending on size)

• 1-14oz can Black Beans (drained and rinsed)

• 1-14oz can of white corn

• 1-14oz can of diced tomatoes

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

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

1601 Academy Drive

Auburn, AL 36830

Phone: (334) 821-2430

ADMINISTRATION

Dr. Stan Cox Head of School

Dr. Mary Anna Martin-Smith Lower School Principal

Ms. Donna Lloyd Upper School Principal

Mrs. Lynn Waldrip Chief Finance and Operations Officer

Mrs. Leigh Smith Director of Admissions & Advancement lsmith@lee-scott.org

ENROLLMENT

Approximately

788

Students enrolled at Lee-Scott Academy for 2023-24

Call or email Director of Admissions Leigh Smith today at (334) 821-2430 or lsmith@lee-scott.org to schedule a campus visit.

SCHOOL PROFILE 2023-24

In 1981, two independent schools, Lee Academy of Auburn and Scott Preparatory School of Opelika, merged to become Lee-Scott Academy. The strong traditions of academic excellence and emphasis on Christian values of both schools continue as the hallmark of LSA. Originally located on the campus of Lee Academy, steady growth in enrollment lead to the 1996 construction of our present campus in Auburn. Enrollment for the 2023-24 school year is approximately 788.

FACULTY

The 2023-24 Lee-Scott Academy faculty consists of 83 professional staff members; 65 percent of these members have advanced degrees, including 4 doctorates.

ACCREDITATION/MEMBERSHIP

Lee-Scott Academy holds dual accreditation from the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS) and Cognia. It holds membership In the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) and The College Board. Lee-Scott Academy has been selected as an Apple Distinguished School.

ADMISSION

Admission to Lee-Scott Academy is selective and competitive. The admission process consists of a review of academic records, including standardized test scores, and an interview process. Lee-Scott Academy enrolls students without regard to race, sex, religion or ethnicity.

ATHLETICS

Lee-Scott Academy Warriors’ athletic teams compete in 11 different sports in the Alabama Independent School Association (AISA) and will soon be moving to the Alabama High School Athletic Association (AHSAA). Each sport includes Junior Varsity and Varsity level programs. Lower school students can participate in Pee-Wee football, cheerleading, and basketball programs.

ARTS

Lee-Scott Academy’s fine arts program is consistent with our mission of developing the total person. Research over the past several decades supports the significance of fine arts education curriculum in encouraging the development of higher order thinking skills such as creativity, problem-solving, effective communication, self-discipline and critical thinking. Our fine arts programs attract large numbers of participants because they are of high quality, and just plain fun. Upper School fine arts offerings include art, drama, chorus and band. Our students at all levels consistently bring back superior ratings and blue ribbons from district and state AISA and other regional competitions.

Lee-Scott Academy is a college preparatory school offering a quality education in an environment where students are protected, nurtured, and challenged with biblical, Christcentered principles that promote the development of the total person. The pursuit of excellence in academics is the hallmark of the Academy, complemented by opportunities to participate in programs that encourage student success.

CLASS OF 2023

60

SENIOR GRADUATES IN THE CLASS OF 2023

$2.8

MILLION EARNED IN SCHOLARSHIP OFFERS

HOURS OF MISSION TRIPS AND COMMUNITY SERVICE 3600 +

22

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

The Fall Guy

IF

Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes

After a catastrophic injury ends a stunt man’s career, he’s surprised to be invited back to the biz – this time as a stunt double for a big star. What he doesn’t know is that the movie is being directed by his erstwhile fling and that the lead actor has gone missing. The Fall Guy is blessed with the comic talents of Ryan Gosling and Emily Blunt and delivers the expected fun, stunts, and energy. Parents should note that the movie has plenty of action violence and a whole bunch of profanity. The PG-13 rating should be taken seriously.

What if imaginary friends could become real? And what if they need new friends when their human pals outgrow them? When Bea’s father needs heart surgery, she is consumed with anxiety. But then she meets Cal who takes her to a retirement home for Imaginary Friends (IFs), where the matchmaking process takes place. Often quite somber and slow-paced, this film is also touching and whimsical. It’s impressively cast and offers upbeat tunes and some happy tears for many viewers.

Having won the war for the planet, ape groups have spread across the earth, forgetting their own history. When Noa’s village is razed to the ground, learning about his species’ past and finding the tyrant Proximus who is terrorizing ape communities becomes critically important. This rebooted franchise is always better than expected, with thoughtful scripts, intriguing ideas, and some of the best digital effects in the world of cinema. There are some scenes of intense violence, but other negative content is minimal. Photo ©20th Century Studios

Thelma the pony dreams of musical greatness, but fame eludes her – until she is accidentally doused in glittery paint and mistaken for a unicorn. Soon she’s a viral sensation, struggling with issues of honesty and authenticity. This film is neither original nor complex, but it delivers solid messages to kids, along with bouncy tunes and a determinedly upbeat attitude. The gross-out potty humor will be a bit much for adults, but that won’t deter the preschoolers and other young viewers for whom this film was made. Photo ©Netflix

Determined to rebuild his career in America, Australian concert promoter David Smallbone moves his family to Nashville. The job doesn’t work out and soon the family are working odd jobs to pay the bills – and taking a hard look at their homegrown musical talent. Based on a true story this clean Christian-lite film offers a glimpse at a united family that works and struggles together, under the guidance of their faith-filled, devoted parents, and creates a legacy of musical achievement.

Photo ©Lionsgate

Photo ©Universal Pictures

Photo ©Paramount Pictures

Unsung Hero

Don’t Risk It All

Q. My husband is a good, hard-working man, who has been stuck in a job he really doesn’t like for almost 10 years. He came to me the other day with an idea to cash out his 401(k) and use the money to open a business. He has always loved the idea of going into business for himself, and I want him to be happy, but I’m not sure this is a good idea. Do you have any advice?

A. Yes, I do have some advice. And it can be summed up in one word. Don’t. I admire your husband’s spirit, but the way he wants to approach this turns the entire situation into a trap. Think about it. If his business idea doesn’t work out, you guys have lost your retirement savings, and bankruptcy becomes a very real possibility. Diving head-first into opening a new business just because you’re bored with your current situation, or tired of answering to others, is not a good idea.

Look, I get it. Lots of folks have an entrepreneurial spirit. And everyone I know like that wants to live their dream. The problem is these dreams can turn into nightmares, for the entrepreneur and everyone around them, if they don’t plan wisely and very carefully ahead of time.

In my mind, one definition of a nightmare in business is “going all in.” When you’re playing cards, this means betting everything on a single hand. You never go “all in” when it comes to business.

So, for the moment, the first question he needs to ask himself is this: How can I live my dream without going all in?

For starters, he needs to find something he truly loves doing and can look forward to every single day. To have any chance of success, he’ll have to live and

Camp

breathe that idea. I know you love this guy and want to help. So, the best thing you can do right now is express your concerns about his idea, and offer to help him think about what he could do every day that would make him smile. Once he has the answer to that question, the next step is figuring out how to start that business without putting your entire financial world in danger. In other words, how can he save up some money— and start small—instead of blowing your entire savings or going into debt?

If you have some cash other than your emergency fund or retirement fund, it’s okay to use some of that. But never, ever, go into debt to start a business, or pledge every dime you have to something that could be a complete disaster.

It’s not an either/or proposition. He doesn’t have to risk it all to get away from a job he hates and live his dream!

WHEN SCHOOL IS OUT, KIDSTRONG CAMP IS IN!

Your child will have a blast while learning with their peers and getting tons of physical activity. We’ll be reinforcing important skills like confidence, teamwork, physical fitness, social skills, good sportsmanship and more!

SCAN TO GET STARTED

Most everyone has experienced being the new person in a community, school or other environment. Every family needs a support system and when you’re new in town, time is of the essence. Once your family has settled on the neighborhood you will live in, your next step is to get out there and meet people in the community. While it can be daunting at first, these eight tips will help you find new friends fast.

1. Check and see if your neighborhood has a community association. You may not have to look much farther than your own neighborhood to find new friends. Many neighborhood associations hold events that you can attend to meet your neighbors. Who knows, your famous pot luck salad at the neighborhood barbeque might win you your next best friend.

2. Look into local moms groups. Most communities are overflowing with dozens of official and unofficial playgroups for kids. Look online or call your pediatrician for recommendations. These groups usually connect mothers of similarly aged children. Your kids may find future classmates through these groups.

3. Talk to the schools your children will be attending. See if there are any community groups that your child can get involved in. They will meet new friends and you can get to know other moms and dads in the process. Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, sports teams and other like activities will help your family find similarly minded friends.

4. While you are inquiring at the school, ask about the PTA/Parents’ Organization. Usually the head of these organizations can help you get in touch with other parents and help you find activities that you and your family can participate in.

5. Look into local houses of worship. Faith and friendship go hand in hand. Find a local house of worship and ask the pastor, priest or rabbi for recommendations on committees you can join, families you should meet or other organizations that will connect you with your soon-to-be friends.

6. Join! Join the pool, join the community center, go to where the people in your community congregate. Once you have joined, volunteer to get yourself out there. It may take some elbow grease to connect you with future friends.

7. Identify the super-connectors. It always seems like a handful of people in every community seem to know everyone. Befriend these people. They will connect you with others and always seem to be willing to help out others.

8. Find your tribe. Do the things you love and the people you are meant to connect with will follow. Whether quilting, writing or soccer is your thing, there is likely a group of people nearby who love what you love and would love for you to join them. Making friends and connections in the neighborhood and surrounding community helps parents find support in a place that may feel far from home. Get out there today and meet some people. You never know where you might find those lifelong family friends.

Beth N. Davis writes from Rockville, MD where she and her husband are raising their four children.

Where To Start

City of Auburn

A one-stop resource to find information about the local government, the services in the city, community connections and how to find all you need as a new resident of Auburn, Al. 334-501-7260 www.auburnalabama.org

City of Opelika

204 South 7th Street Opelika, 36801

A one-stop resource to find information about the local government, the services in the city, community connections and how to find all you need as a new resident of Opelika, Al. 334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov

Lee County

Great place to find area information regarding the government, city information, schools and community resources. www.leeco.us

Real Estate Agents

HomeLink Realty

ad on Inside Back Cover

310 Samford Village Court Auburn , 36830 With years of experience helping local buyers and sellers just like yourself, we know how to locate the finest properties and negotiate the best deals. It’s our job to know about the latest market conditions, government regulations, and upcoming developments — so that you don’t have to. As your Buyer’s Representative, we can make the process of house hunting much easier and more efficient than if you did it all yourself. We can help you get financing, guide you to local neighborhoods, help you determine your budget, and prioritize a list of essential features that you need in your next home. Selling a house on your own can be an overwhelming task. There’s advertising to plan and budget for, open houses and private showings to arrange, purchase offers to negotiate, contract contingencies to worry about, and complicated paperwork to fill out. Make it easy on yourself by putting your home in the

2021 2024

hands of seasoned professionals. We have extensive experience marketing properties and showing them to their best advantage. 334-329-5055 www.thehomelink.com

Auburn Realty

233 West Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 334-887-8777 www.auburnrealty.com

Berkshire Hathaway

1810 E Glenn Ave, #130 Auburn, 36830 334-826-1010 www.bhhspreferredauburn.com

Toland Realty

544 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 334-329-7390 www.tolandrealty.com

Weichert Realty

475 North Dean Road Auburn, 36830 334-887-2070 www.weichert.com/AL/Lee/Auburn/

Home Maintenance and Repair

Ace Hardware Auburn

ad on page 12

2101 E University Drive Auburn, 36830

The store has been designed to reflect the needs of the Auburn-Opelika community, including solutions to everyday home improvement needs, as well as an extensive array of high-quality products in categories such as paint and lawn and garden. The store is packed with thousands of essential products and supplies, including some of the most respected brand names and best-selling items in the home improvement marketplace. 334-329-7100 www.acehardware.com/storedetails/15598

All-V Roofing and Restoration

Auburn, 36830

We are a locally owned and operated company that values honesty and integrity and treats your home roofing project as if it were our own. With 8 years of industry experience, we offer a wide range of roof-

ing expertise and experience to meet the specific needs of our clients. We pride ourselves on the quality of our work as well as our commitment to outstanding results. We look forward to building lasting relationships and guarantee your satisfaction! 334-319-2759 www.all-vroofingandrestorationllc.com/

Auburn Home Maintenance Auburn, 36830

We have an extensive list of the best reputable professionals in the area, so if the job is too big for us we can still help. Simply give us a call and let us handle it from there.

334-539-7000 www.auburnhomemaintenance.com

Eagle Inspection Services Auburn, 36830

I provide the property condition information you need for the best possible decision making. My inspection process is simple and affordable. 334-728-2137 www.eagleinspectionsauburn.com

TruGreen Lawn Care

1127 Preston Street Opelika, 36801

Our PhD-certified specialists will evaluate your lawn and design a tailored approach based on its climate, grass type, soil condition and usage to give it exactly what it needs at the right time — and it’s all backed by our Healthy Lawn Guarantee®? 334-363-3400 www.trugreen.com

Places to Grow

Alabama Department of Public Health

ad on Back Cover

201 Monroe Street MontgomeryAll Kids Children Health Insurance Program: A low-cost, comprehensive healthcare coverage program for children under age 19. Benefits include regular checkups and immunizations, sick child doctor visits, prescriptions, vision and dental care, hospitalization, mental health and substance abuse services and more. Women, Infants and Children (WIC): supplemental nutrition program for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, women who had a baby within the last 6 months, infants and children under the age of five.

888-737-5437 www.adph.org

Auburn Pediatric Dentistry

ad on page 17

841 North Dean Road Auburn, 36830

We are a pediatric specialty practice which means our focus is entirely on children and adolescents. we specialize in diagnosis and treatment of children’s oral health needs and development. Each visit to our office includes cavity detections, monitoring of growth and development and daily prevention of decay by focusing on proper home care. 334-826-6651 www.auburnpediatricdentistry.com

Auburn Therapy and Learning Center

ad on page 14

2000 Samglenn Drive, 100 Auburn, 36830

Our mission is to empower and encourage functional daily living skills for all ages, specifically

focusing on providing the highest quality treatment to improve those skills pertaining to communication, fine motor skills, sensory integration, and feeding difficulties.Our clinicians are fully licensed and trained to provide quality treatment in Speech and Language Therapy, Occupational Therapy, and Feeding Therapy.

334-734-5511 www.auburntlc.com

East Alabama Mental Health

ad on page 25

2506 Lambert Avenue Opelika, 36801 East Alabama Mental Health Center offers a wide range of services for children and adolescents, as well as their families, who are experiencing serious emotional disturbances. Services include outpatient counseling, medication assessment and monitoring, case management, mental health consultation, and specialized programs for unique populations.

334- 742-2877 or (800) 815-0630 www.eamhc.org

East Alabama Pediatric

Dentistry

ad on page 21

742 North Dean Road Auburn, 36830

We cater to children and is dedicated to providing the best quality dental services available for your child. With each visit, we hope to teach your child the importance of dental care, along with encouraging them to keep up the good work and to stay cavity-free!

334-321-0780 www.gatergrins.com

Pediatric Associates of Auburn ad on page 18

2901 Corporate Park Drive Opelika, 36801

Offering comprehensive medical care for infants, children, and adolescents.

334-203-1766 www.auburnpediatric.com

Shelley Orthodontics

ad on page 31

1957 East Samford Ave, Suite A Auburn, 36830

From clear braces to Invisalign, we offer a wide variety of treatment options using the most up-todate orthodontic technology. Rely on the experts at our practice to create your perfect smile in an affordable and comfortable fashion.

334-521-0112 www.shelleyortho.com

The Children’s Hospital

ad on page 15

1600 7th Avenue South Birmingham, 35233

Children’s of Alabama is the only medical center in Alabama dedicated solely to the care and treatment of children. It is a private, not-for-profit medical center that serves as the primary site of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) pediatric medicine, surgery, psychiatry, research and residency programs. 205-638-9100 www.childrensal.org

Auburn Pediatric and Adult Medicine

2353 Bent Creek Road, Suite110 Auburn, 36830

We provide primary care services to patients of all ages.

334-887-8707 www.auburndoc.com

Opelika Pediatrics and Family Clinic

5809 US Hwy-280 Opelika, 36804

Providing care for infants through adolescents

334-664-0463 www.preferredmedgroup.com/ opelika-pediatrics-and-family-clinic/

Pediatric Clinic

760 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830

We provide primary care health services for infants, children and adolescents.

334-749-8121 www.thepedsclinic.com

Pediatric Clinic

2401 Village Professional Drive S Opelika, 36801

We provide primary care health services for infants, children and adolescents.

334-749-8121 www.thepedsclinic.com

Urgent Care for Children

2564 Enterprise Drive Opelika, 36830

Open late nights and weekends. Walk in welcome. Urgent Care for Children is an after-hours pediatric urgent care clinic headquartered in Birmingham, Alabama. We provide less waiting and quality care 365 days a year.

334-759-6740 www.childrensurgent.com/location/ auburn-opelika/

Putt Putt Course! Grab your putters and score cards for five thrilling holes of mini-golf on The Greenspace! Putt your skills to the test and enjoy an unforgettable experience with friends and family. Hungry? There are multiple walk up venes to choose including burgers, tacos, bowls, coffee, and more.

800-228-2876 www.heydaymarketauburn.com

Kreher Preserve and Nature Center

ad on page 7

2222 North College Street Auburn, 36830

20 acre track, comprising seven natural habitats, including special points of interest such as the Longleaf Pine Demonstration Forest, Wildflower Trail, Boulder Ridge, Butterfly and Vegetable Gardens, Hidden Falls and the old Homestead. 334-502-4553 https://wp.auburn.edu/preserve/

Places to Play

Auburn Parks and Recreation

ad on Inside Front Cover

425 Perry Street Auburn , 36830

Everything from children’s activities and team sports to city-wide events and local parks to explore. Quarterly published brochures include all the fun classes and programming for everyone in your family, including your dog! Don’t miss exciting community events where you can meet neighbors and make new friends. Parks and Rec has many beautiful parks to play in, as well as, a community pool, gymnasiums and fitness centers. 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks/

Hey Day Market

ad on page 21

211 South College Street Auburn, 36830

Swing into action at Hey Day Market with our new

Opelika Parks and Recreation

ad on page 3

1001 Andrews Road Opelika, 36801

Looking for a family fitness center? Opelika has a state of the art SportsPlex and Aquatic Center. Fitness class, gymnasium, indoor pool and outdoor splash pad, sports fields and more. Also, there are numerous parks including the Municipal Park that features the Rocky Brook Train. Find classes for all your family members to try. Or, find a team sport to join. Don’t miss the calendar of events for local fun around town.

332-705-5560 www.opelika-al.gov/913/ParksRecreation

OWA Parks and Resort

ad on page 5

101-N South OWA Blvd Foley, 36535

At the heart of our 520-acre destination is Tropic Falls, featuring 23 theme-park rides and the re-

gion’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

Chewacla State Park

124 Shell Toomer Parkway Auburn, 36830

696 scenic acres offer plenty of rest, relaxation and recreation; include a 26-acre lake, swimming area, playground, a modern campground, picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters, cabins, hiking and mountain biking trails. 334-887-5621 alapark.com/chewacla-state-park

Cyberzone Entertainment Center

107 North 9th Street Opelika, 36801 East Alabama’s premier laser tag and gaming experience. Complete with a 5,100 square-foot laser tag arena, virtual reality experiences, Esports Arena and arcade, CyberZone is the region’s go-to spot for group events, date nights and family outings.

334-737-5000 www.cyberzone334.com

Felton Little Park

341 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 Playground, a batting cage, a picnic area with three grills and three picnic tables, as well as three youth softball/baseball fields.

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

Good Times

750 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 Bowling lanes, arcade games and escape rooms.

334-539-3131 www.goodtimesbowling.com

Hickory Dickory Park

1399 Hickory Lane Auburn, 36830

A unique, multi-level playground structure including slides, swings, towers and open play areas.

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

Kiesel Park

520 Chadwick Lane Auburn, 36830 Auburn’s largest park, with a pavilion, a garden, a pond and a walking trail with a distance of 2 1/4 miles.

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

Municipal Park (Monkey Park)

700 5th Avenue Opelika, 36801

Several playground areas, a picnic shelter, a gazebo, and an antique miniature train known as the Rocky Brook Rocket 334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov

Rock ‘N Roll Pinball

815 South Railroad Ave Opelika, 36801

Rock ‘N Roll Pinball provides over 30 high-end and vintage pinball machines for your playing pleasure in a comfortable and friendly atmosphere. There’s 9 large screen TVs, a music venue/party room, and a bar that serves sodas, snacks, beer, and wine. We’ve added two video arcade machines that play a multitude of games for one or two players.

334-324-1406 www.rocknrollpinball.com

Surge Trampoline Park

2506 Pepperell Parkway Opelika, 36801

Indoor trampoline park with jousting, slam dunk hoops, dodge ball courts, toddler play, arcades and more.

334-737-5599 www.surgeopelika.com

TigerTown Sports

1615 Parker Way Opelika, 36801

Golf is just the beginning. 18 holes, 3 sand courts, 1 high-definition sports simulator, and a full-service bar/snacks mean endless fun for everyone. Get ready for unmatched fun and sports entertainment! There’s something for everyone at Tigertown Sports, from a classic round of miniature golf to beach volleyball, a high-definition golf simulator, and more! Host your party with us!

334-679-7140? www.tigertownsports.com

Town Creek Inclusive Playground

430 Camelia Drive Auburn, 36830

A 60,000-plus square foot playground featuring parallel play components, accessible fitness equipment, accessible playground equipment, sensory components, and more to provide an engaging and barrier-free experience for persons of all abilities and ages to enjoy.

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

Places to Learn

ACC Academy

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2200 Hamilton Road Auburn, 36830

“The heartbeat of this school is for spiritual formation to meet academic excellence, allowing students to thrive and learn in an environment infused with the truth of God’s Word and guided by spiritual disciplines.”ACC Academy’s Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment programs are committed to ensuring a robust and effective systemic plan for students in Kindergarten through 2nd Grades. Our focus is on providing a guaranteed and viable curriculum guided by state and national standards. We emphasize the development of Biblical knowledge and spiritual growth, while building essential knowledge and critical thinking skills necessary for success in the world in which we live.

334-734-0900 www.accacademy.com

Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center

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128 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830

Transportation from Schools available; Licensed by the State of Alabama; Nationally Accredited through National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Education Programs/ Association for Early Learning Leaders (NAC); Theme-based Lesson Plans and Curriculum. The Child Development Center is a ministry of Auburn First Baptist Church in which we provide safe, loving, quality care for children in a Christian environment. We strive to provide the best in early education by providing hands-on learning so that each child may develop to his or her highest potential cognitively, physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually. Now Enrolling Summer Camp. 334-821-8125 www.auburnfbc.org

Grove Hill Academy

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1279 Weatherford Street, Auburn, Al 36830 Grove Hill Academy is committed to providing developmentally appropriate, child-centered early education to the children in East Alabama. We strive to provide relationship oriented, developmentally appropriate early education of infants and preschoolers. We understand that early education is a developmental process of the whole child, requiring attention to the social, emotional, physical, cognitive, and spiritual domains. Also offering afterschool care for early childhood students during the school year and summer camps too.

334-521-0308 www.grovehillacademyauburn.com

Growing Room Child Development Center

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1755 Thomason Drive Opelika , 36801

Give Your Child the Growing Room Experience! More Informed Parents Choose Growing Room! “On Our Block”-language based curriculum, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, nutritious warm meals, superior security and an outstanding playground with safe, solid rubbe r surfacing. Extracurricular programs include JumpBunch & Dance. We offer before and after school care to most Opelika City Schools. 334-501-2044 www.growingroomusa.com/auburn

Growing Room Child Development Center

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644 North Dean Road Auburn, 36830

Give Your Child the Growing Room Experience! More Informed Parents Choose Growing Room! “On Our Block”-language based curriculum, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, nutritious warm meals, superior security and an outstanding playground with safe, solid rubber surfacing. Extracurricular programs include JumpBunch & Dance. We offer before and after school care to most Auburn City Schools.

334-501-2044 www.growingroomusa.com/auburn

Jenny’s Little Ranch Hands

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6401 Stage Road Loachapoka, 36865

Summer Camp will visiting the barn, learning about farm and the animals, crafts, and other farm fun! Also available is Drop-In and Vacation care for caregivers that need just a few hours of care periodically or need vacation care if their normal childcare is close. This is a flexible program with plenty of activities, country walks and more.

559-334-5759 www.jennyslittleranchhands.com

Kreher Preserve

and Nature Center

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2222 North College Street Auburn, 36830

Woodland Wonders Nature Preschool is Auburn’s first nature preschool and the second nature preschool in Alabama. “Nature preschool” is an innovative educational strategy that allows your child to learn about, with, and through nature, embracing the great outdoors as their classroom. Children spend their school time exploring and uncovering knowledge in an environment where curiosity and child-led discovery are encouraged. This incredible, cutting-edge, and revolutionary philosophy combines early-childhood education and environmental awareness on a new level. Nature Explorers Home school Program is an environmental education program designed for home-schooling families which offers a unique, nature-based educational experience. Classes incorporate hands-on science with nature and environmental awareness, and each concludes with a nature hike.

334-502-4553 www.auburn,edu/preserve

Lee-Scott Academy

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1601 Academy Drive Auburn, 36830

Private Christian school with grades pre-k-12th; Lee-Scott Academy is a college preparatory school offering a quality education in an environment where students are protected, nurtured, and challenged with Christian principles that promote the development of the total person. The pursuit

of excellence in academics is the hallmark of the Academy, complemented by opportunities to participate in programs that encourage student success. Our goal is to inspire students to seek their full potential in academics, the arts, and athletics in a challenging and nurturing environment that cultivates social responsibility, mutual respect, and personal integrity in a school community that promotes Christian principles.

334-821-2430 www.lee-scott.org

Trinity Christian School

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1010 India Road Opelika, 36801

Trinity Christian School was established in 1978 as a private Christian school committed to providing a classical, biblical education to the young people of our community. With a starting assumption that education of children is the responsibility of parents, we seek to assist families in teaching all subjects in the light of God’s Word. Our goal is to provide a secure Christian environment of classical academic excellence. Please take a few moments to browse our site and learn about our academics, arts, sports, and other K-12 programs. Trinity offers a classical, Christian education that employs time-tested curricula and teaching methods. Our students participate in hands-on learning about God’s creation and they practice careful articulation when expressing the truth of God’s Word; all the while, they grow to appreciate great literature and Latin as well as how God weaves science and mathematics throughout His world.

334-745-2464 www.tcsopelika.org

Auburn Day School

1199 South Donahue St, Suite E Auburn, 36832 Alabama’s STEM preschool, serves ages 2-5 and offers 2, 3, and 5 day programs M-F, 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m. during the academic year. STEM Camps for Preschool and Elementary are offered during summer and holidays.

334-209-0460 www.auburndayschool.com/#/

Auburn City Schools

855 East Samford Avenue Auburn, 36830 Public K-12 grades, includes 9 elementary schools, 2 middle/intermediate schools, 1 junior high and 1 high school. 334-887-2100 www.auburnschools.org

Auburn Classical Academy

1901-B Waverly Parkway Opelika, 36801

A classical Christian school, K-8th grades, with a goal to nurture students’ intellectual growth as an integral aspect of Christian character development. Classical methods train and discipline the mind and prepare the student for the analytical thinking skills necessary for higher education. 334-821-7081 www.auburnclassicalacademy.com

Lee County Schools

2410 Society Hill Road Opelika, 36804 Public K-12 grades, includes 7 elementary, 1 middle, 1 freshmen center, 1 junior high and 4 high schools. 334-705-6000 www.lee.k12.al.us

Opelika City Schools

300 Simmons Street Opelika, 36801 Public K-12 grades, includes 3 primary schools, 3 intermediate, 1 middle and 1 high school. 334-745-9700 www.opelikaschools.org

Parkway Baptist Church Preschool & Kindergarten

766 East University Drive Auburn, 36830

Christian based preschool consisting of biblical and instructional curriculums. Instructional curriculum is Handwriting Without Tears®. The curriculum draws from years of innovation and research to provide

developmentally appropriate, multisensory tools and strategies for our classrooms. The program follows research that demonstrates children learn more effectively by actively doing, with materials that address all styles of learning. Weekly Chapel, monthly lunch bunches, extracurricular tumbling classes, and more!!

334-321-0537 parkwayauburn.org/parkway-preschool

St. Michael Catholic School

1100 North College Street Auburn, 36830

His Truth. Our Mission. St. Michael Catholic School fosters the development of the whole child through spiritual, moral, and academic excellence. Offering classes for Preschool-5th Grade.

334-7879089 www.stmichaelcatholicschool.com

The Oaks School

2201 Executive Park Drive Opelika , 36801

The Oaks School is a Pre-K through 12th grade private school in the Auburn-Opelika area. The Oaks School offers a four day school week with strong academics, spiritually dynamic chapel services, limited homework, and an encouraging family atmosphere that empowers all students to become creative, high-impact leaders.

334-887-9947 www.theoaksschool.org

Places for Culture/ Entertainment

East Alabama Arts

1700 Lafayette Parkway Opelika, 36801

Subscribe to the 2023-24 performance series; more information coming soon.

334-749-8105 www.eastalabamaarts.org

Gogue Performing Arts Center

910 South College Street Auburn, 36849

The GPAC at Auburn University is East Alabama’s premier venue presenting professional performances in music, dance, theatre and more. Subscribe to the 2024-25 Season!

334-844-8497 www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art

901 South College Street Auburn, 36830

The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University consists of changing exhibition galleries, Luster, the museum café, and a museum shop in a striking modernist building set within extensive grounds. A pillar of the southern gateway cultural arts district, it offers students, faculty and the region impactful opportunities to engage with a wide-ranging visual and decorative arts collection spanning centuries, genres and materials. 334-844-1484 www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Telfair Peet Theatre

21 Telfair Peet Theatre Auburn University, 36849

Performances throughout the academic school year including plays, music, dance and more. 334-844-4748 www.cla.auburn.edu/theatre

After School Activities and Lessons

Auburn Oil Co. Booksellers

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149 East Magnolia Avenue Auburn, 36830

Featuring a specially curated selection of books, cards, and gifts as well as custom-made drinks.

Joins us for family, summer movie nights, author visits, book clubs, trivia nights, pop up events and so much more.

3334-246-3003 www.auburnoilbooksellers.com

KidStrong Auburn

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1530 East Glenn Avenue, G Auburn, 36830

KidStrong is a science-based kids training program designed to help parents raise strong, confident, high-character kids. We incorporate movement and fun into the learning process, empowering kids to learn more effectively. Our program focuses on character, physical and brain development through weekly 45-minute, age-based classes. 334-780-1118 www.kidstrong.com/locations/auburn

The City of Opelika

Public Library

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1100 Glenn Street Opelika, 36801

Family events and programming all year. Offering story time in the garden, preschool discovery zone, teen interests, book clubs, and much more. Our mission is to provide free programs, activities, information, and technological access to the citizens of Opelika.

334-705-5380 www.opelika-al.gov/917/OpelikaPublic-Library

Alabama Dance Theatre

1018 Madison Avenue Montgomery, 36104

We are an award winning, regional ballet company with an eclectic repertoire that includes the 19th century classes as well as new modern and contemporary works. The company emphasizes serious training for the pre-professional dancer. 334-625-2590 www.alabamadancetheatre.com

Auburn’s Best After School Care & Summer Camps

2515 East Glenn Ave, 205 Auburn , 36830

Our summer camp is tailor-made to be fun, educational, and social. Parents love it – and kids do, too. Our summer camp can provide the solution to keep everyone happy. Kids get to attend a fun summer camp that keeps them active and gives them plenty of activities to do while making new friends and connecting with old ones. You get the reassurance of knowing that your kids are learning respect, discipline, and self-control, all of which will help them when they go back to school in the fall.

334-887-0818 www.auburnsbestsummercamp.net

Auburn Area Community Theatre

Center 222 East Drake Avenue` Auburn, 36832

AACT offers two full-length children and youth shows annually, with other smaller performances dotting the calendar throughout the year. AACT’s children and youth outreach program, dubbed the Young Performers’ program, includes musicals, dramas, comedies, and classics—all crafted to engage, educate, and stimulate young minds.

334-246-1084 www.auburnact.org

First Baptist Church Opelika Fine Arts

301 South 8th Street Opelika, 36801

Private music lessons are offered Monday –Friday. They begin no earlier than 9:00 a.m. and conclude no later than 9:00 p.m. Wednesday lessons must conclude by 6:00 p.m. due to church activities. Lessons are offered in the areas of piano, voice, guitar, strings, brass,

woodwinds, percussion and pipe organ. Our experienced instructors are highly qualified in their individual areas.

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

The City of Auburn Public Library

749 E Thach Avenue Auburn, 36830

Family programming throughout the year. Check our online calendar for story times, puppet shows, book clubs, author visits, crafternoons, and much more. Our mission is to inspire, enrich, and delights our residents with vital and valuable resources, services, and experiences. 334-501-3190 www.auburnalabama.org/library

Places to Gather

Downtown Auburn

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122 West Magnolia Avenue Auburn , 36830

Welcome to the heart of Auburn and Auburn University. Here you can browse local shops and boutiques for unique style and gifts. Gather friends and family an enjoy a family meal overlooking Toomer’s Corner and Samford Hall. Upcoming Events: June 7: SummerNight Downtown Art Walk. July 26: Cheers on the Corner. www.downtownauburnonline.com

Opelika Main Street

601 Avenue A Opelika, 36801

Once a sleepy little railroad town, Opelika has now grown into vibrant and energetic downtown community. Gather with family and friends to shop among local merchants and dine in style with the railroad tracks as your back drop. www.opelikamainstreet.org

Family Wellness and Health

City Market

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Town Creek Park Auburn , 36830

Every Saturday, May-August 8:00-11:00am. The market will host local farmers, growers, and artists to sell their produce and products. Parking will be available for all market attendees in the gravel parking lot across from Town Creek Park. 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org

Tanology Spraytan and Beauty Bar

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1188 Opelika Road, 900 Main St Auburn, 36830

Tanology is now a Full-Service Beauty Bar offering spray tan for all occasions, and NEW services for lashes, brows, waxing, sugaring, facials, chemical peels and so much more. 334-748-1343 www.tanologybeautybar.com

Auburn Pharmacy

643 North Dean Road Auburn, 36830

Our main focus is to provide extraordinary customer service. We want to give you old-fashioned customer service with the convenience of modern technology. Services include medicine packaging and synchronization, immunizations and more. 334-521-0455 www.auburn-pharmacy.com

Roar Fitness

2408 East University Drive Auburn, 36830

Offering high-intensity interval training classes,

cutting-edge heart rate tracking technology, and an accountable community. ROAR Fitness also proudly presents a high-class Spin Studio, Yoga Classes, and Nutrition Coaching. 334-734-5005 www.roarfitnessauburn.com

Planet Fitness

Opelika, 36801

Get high-quality fitness at an affordable price. Planet Fitness offers low startup fees, no-commitment options as well as the PF Black Card ® where you can get ALL. THE. PERKS all in the Judgment Free Zone®. 334-617-3222 www.planetfitness.com/gyms/opelika-al

Pet Care

Auburn University Veterinary Clinic

1010 Wire Road Auburn, 36832

We are a full-service, primary-care veterinary clinic designed to provide preventative and wellness care, as well as basic appointments for pets in our community. We pride ourselves in providing excellent care to our clients while engaging them in the educational process of our veterinary students.

334-844-9966 www.vetmed.auburn.edu

MAC Animal Clinic

1345 Opelika Road Auburn, 36830

We are excited to serve you and your family, and we hope that you see how everyone at MAC Animal Clinic truly cares for you. We are offering services to the local community to accommodate all of your pet’s needs.

334-521-5060 macanimalclinic.com AOP

Unplugged and Liberated Re-Entry is Hard!

I took 30 days off of social media. Feeling overwhelmed and exhausted, I decided to take what felt like a bold step and disconnect. In the spirit of full transparency here, I must admit to allowing myself 20 minutes daily to catch up with close friends and family. It is the end of the school year, and we have many close friends with kids graduating and doing really cool things as they get ready for college. I was incredibly intentional about where I spent that time and completely logged off of my work social media. No research. No scrolling. Zero “connecting”. For 30 days. Little did I know that this break would transform my perspective and make me question whether I wanted to return at all.

I had a panic attack the first couple of days. I was sure that work would completely stop. That the tech world would fly past me and that I would never catch back up upon re-entry. On the friends and family side, I worried I might miss out on special events, birthdays, and life-changing moments. But then, I began to feel a profound sense of liberation. I have taught my students and clients for years to remove yourself to quiet the noise, and you will feel free. Better. Clear. The noise settled.

I found myself reaching out to people directly to engage in meaningful conversations and catch up. Each friend or family member I connected with was so happy to

have an actual conversation. Many were going through private life events that felt heavy, and they welcomed the chance to talk. Even more critical, I re-discovered the joy of simple pleasures. Free from the constant noise of social media, I found solace in moments of solitude. At the lake. In my flower garden. A solo trip where I spent time by myself for three days felt like heaven. Taking this time allowed me to get still long enough to reflect on who I truly am. Why I felt the need to step back from the work that I love so much...and the social media world that drives it. I realized almost two weeks in that I was experiencing, among other things, signs of burnout. And that social media had played a huge role in why I felt this way. In my stillness, I recognized that I was burnt out on hearing (seeing) stressful online content. Be it from family, friends, or work, I was burnt out from the constant noise in my life that reached out to me from behind a screen.

After 30 days off-screen, re-entry felt like a complete attack on my senses in the most rude way possible. The time off allowed me to reconnect with what feels right and good and important in life. As much as I lectured on this, I discovered I had slowly fallen into the screen connection trap, which led to my feelings of imbalance and frustration.

Re-entry has been hard. My new sense of freedom feels challenged. So I want to share with you things I am putting

in place to sustain better balance, hoping they may also help you.

1. Intentionality. I pay close attention to who and what I allow to occupy head space.

2. Time. I do not allow fun scrolling for anything longer than 20 minutes per day. I stopped “doom scrolling” years ago, but even “fun scrolling” becomes a time stealer and contributes to the constant online noise in your life.

3. Genuine connections. Face to face. Phone calls. Some texting. I am creating sacred spaces in my life to spend time with those I love. I find this has extended to work, and I am creating more opportunities for real connections there as well. And it just feels better. Right. Comforting. Useful. Effective.

Do I recommend your own personal social media hiatus? Yes. Try it for 30 days. Allow yourself time to move through the uncomfortable beginning. Find ways to show up for the important people in your life. I promise the settled, beautiful, connected ending is worth it.

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.

Are you simultaneously excited about and dreading summer? If so, make the most of all of the unstructured, non-scheduled time your kids will soon be spending at home...or summer may not end up nearly as relaxing for you as it is for your kids!

Take a cue from ‘The Artful Parent,’ blogger Jean Van’t Hul. She says, “When a child explores, learns, and creates, the side effect is often a mess. To say no to the messes inhibits the exploration and the creativity that can take place. That should take place. It’s a child’s job to explore the world around him, to experience it and learn as much about it as possible. If the adults in his world continually say, ‘don’t make a mess, be quiet, sit down, be still, leave that alone, do it this way, color within the lines, don’t get your clothes dirty,’ that inhibits the exploration and the learning.”

To make sure you are ready for a summer that is as creative as it is easy, take a few tips from this list. You’ll be ready to squeeze as much fun as you can out of every lazy summer day.

Test-drive The Art Supplies:

Where do you keep your arts and craft supplies? If stored where they are easy to access, your kids will be more likely to use them. Give your arts and crafts storage area a quick overhaul for summer. Check markers. Sharpen pencils. Melt old crayons into new bigger ones. Restock your finger paint and drawing pads. Get enough clipboards or pads for each member of the family. Whatever kinds of projects your family likes to indulge in, make sure you’ve got all the supplies on hand and ready to roll!

Plenty of Places to Brainstorm:

We have an assortment of white boards around the house that absorb an awful lot of creative energy. My eight-year-old daughter kneels in front of the one in her bedroom when she wants to draw picture after picture after picture. I use one in my office to catch ideas as they go flitting by or to jot down a few professional to-dos. And believe it or not, if I write down the family chores on the white board in the kitchen, I’m more likely to get the cooperation from the rest of the family when I need it, so we can all get back to playing.

Become Project-oriented: Creating a garden, a tree house, or a worm box are all examples of outdoor projects the family can undertake together this summer. If you have a rainy day or prefer to stay indoors, why not get a jump on next season’s holi-

day gifts or cards? If everyone in the house prefers to work on his or her own projects at his or her own pace, why not make sure that each person has their own craft area, where they can leave a project out while it’s in process, until its completed. You’ll find that projects are more likely to get finished when they are easily accessible.

Host A Backyard Extravaganza:

Bring On The Color: Painting your walls, your furniture, your fence or your home is one of the cheapest and most fun ways to get a fresh look at home. Why not get the whole family involved? Even a toddler can paint primer on a wall. Tweens and teens might enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes from getting an entire house painted. Mom and Dad can swing in a hammock and sip a cold drink while each school-age child paints one piece of furniture from their bedrooms a favorite new hue.

Garden with Themes: Why have a common garden when you could have a fairy garden or a pizza garden or a found objects garden? For ideas and inspiration, consult the illustrated gardening books for children by author Sharon Lovejoy: Roots, Shoots, Buckets & Boots (Workman 1999), Trowel & Error (Workman 2002), and Toad Cottages & Shooting Stars (Workman 2010). Why not give each member of the family their own garden plot so they can nurture the harvest of their choice?

Take an Unexpected Adventure:

When you set out as a family towards an unfamiliar destination, your senses come alive with possibilities. Instead of planning every summer family outing, why not just grab some snacks and water bottles, hop in the car, and surprise yourselves? Perhaps there is a city nearby you can explore. Perhaps you are just an hour from a state park or wildlife sanctuary. Target a quaint small town you can traverse from end to end on foot. Keep an ongoing list of destinations on one of your whiteboards, take a quick family vote to decide on a one, and you’re off!

Older children might like to put on plays or puppet shows for younger children in the summer. Why not let them play the roles of producer, director, marketing spokesperson, etc. and get the whole neighborhood involved? Fun can really start to catalyze when you pool the neighborhood dress-up clothes, create an impromptu story, and start casting parts...even if only to while away a long afternoon.

Get a Little Wild: Maybe during the school year you don’t welcome the extra mess that body paint, mud, glitter, bathtub crayons, clay, or temporary hair dyes can bring into your hallowed home. But during the summer months, why not? Kids experience a lot of pressure to conform when they are in school, so let them get wild while the days are long, the nights are short, and homework is nothing more than a distant memory.

Make Multimedia Memories: Keep a camera or a video recorder handy so you can document your colorful, creative summer and share it with your distant friends and relatives. And don’t worry about what to do with all your images and film clips. The long cold winter is coming just as sure as you are fully enjoying every minute of your fleeting summer. You’ll be so happy making memories that neighbors you haven’t seen in ages may invite themselves over to join the fun.

Happy creative summer!

Author, journalist, and writing coach, Christina Katz adores summer family fun. You’ll find her in the backyard coming up with lots of outdoor projects or luring everyone into the car for an impromptu family road trip.

FamilyCalendar

Saturday, June 1

Tallapoosa River Fest

1015 Freeman Road, Dadeville, AL Join us for a oneday canoe/kayak float down beautiful Tallapoosa River in Tallapoosa County. This 6-mile journey is the most scenic on the Tallapoosa. Experience the shoals and the Cahaba Lilies. Trip registration fee includes equipment shuttle to put in and take out locations, paddler shuttle to put in and take out locations, cookout, and participant T-shirt...along with some great swag.

Covington Children’s Carnival

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Covington Rec Center, 213 Carver Ave. Opelika Join Opelika Parks and Recreation for the annual carnival. Featuring petting zoo, pool, giant slide, DJ, bounce house, concessions, food trucks, train, and door prizes. www.opelikaparks.com

Tuesday, June 4

A Day in the Life: Firefighter Academy (Fee: $10 per child; Ages 6-12. Registration required) 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM,, OFD Training Grounds on Talladega Street, Opelika Explore the trucks, try on the uniform and hold the hoses. Wear a bathing suit, bring a towel and prepare to get wet. Lunch and t-shirts are provided.

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Summer Swing:

Conner Lorre

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM,, Municipal Park, Opelika For over 39 years this horn-driven group of local professionals has been delivering their eclectic mix of Soul, R&B, Motown, Rock Classics and Americana in the styles of Marvin Gaye, Sam & Dave, Al Green, Van Morrison and many others. www.opelika-al.gov/544/ Park-Bench-Activity-Guide

Friday, June 7

Food Truck Friday

5:00 PM - 12:00 AM,, Downtown Opelika

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

SummerNight Downtown Art Walk

6:00 PM - 10:00 PM,, 100 North College Street, Auburn The SummerNight Downtown Art Walk is a free, entertainment district event, taking place in the streets of downtown Auburn. During the event, downtown merchants and restaurants stay open late, and people of all ages are encouraged to take advantage of this great opportunity to shop, dine and relax while enjoying the arts in downtown Auburn.

www.auburnsummernight.org

Sundilla Presents New Quintet in Concert (Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, Foodies.)

7:30 PM, AUUF, 450 E. Thatch Ave. Auburn www.sundillamusic.com

Saturday, June 8

Second Saturday at Pioneer Park

9:00 AM, 6500 Stage Road, Loachapoka, Al On the second Saturday of every month, a group of history re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts. Blacksmiths are working at the forge, spinners and weavers are

in the textile room, the gardeners are in the gardens, crafts and seasonal activities are scheduled, and someone is always cooking up a meal in the fireplace or outdoors. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org/second-saturday

Touch-a-Truck

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM, Downtown Opelika Vehicles of all types will line the street of downtown Opelika at this fun family event. Kids of all ages can come and explore military vehicles, race cars, dump trucks, and more. Admission is free, and visitors are encouraged to touch and go inside the vehicles. For more info, visit their Facebook account linked above! www.facebook.com/touchtruck

Painting the Still Life in Oil Workshop

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Opelika Art Haus, 500 N. Railroad Ave, Opelika Join Tessa Tallakson for her two-day painting workshop focused on the classical techniquebased process of developing a still life oil painting. www.opelikaarthaus.com

Burger Wars

11:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Downtown Opelika The 10th annual hamburger grilling competition is sponsored by Opelika Rotary Foundation, the non-profit arm of Opelika Rotary and Happy Hour Rotary Club! All are welcome to participate in the event. Whether you’re a professional, a business or just a master at a backyard cookout, enter your burger and put your grilling skills to the test. While guests enjoy tasting burgers, judges will taste and rate burgers throughout the day, and winners in the three grilling categories. www.facebook.com/burgerwarsopelika

Larry Akles Production Presents Invincible 7:00 PM Montgomery Performing Arts Centre, 200 Tallapoosa Street, Montgomery A Glorious tribute to Michael Jackson has the world’s most amazing and authentic Michael Jackson impersonators. INVINCIBLE Is hailed the #1 MJ tribute show in the world! We searched all over the world to find people that could sing and dance like Michael and worked closely with them to perfect my vision of a one-of-a-kind theatrical spectacular tribute show. www.mpaconline.org/invincible

Float-In Movie: Shark Tale (FREE admission with Splash Pass or $2 per person.)

8:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Samford Pool, Auburn 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 none will be provided. (334) 501-2940

Sunday, June 9

Painting the Still Life in Oil Workshop

9:00 AM - 4:00 PM, Opelika Art Haus, 500 N. Railroad Ave, Opelika Join Tessa Tallakson for her two-day painting workshop focused on the classical techniquebased process of developing a still life oil painting. www.opelikaarthaus.com

Monday, June 10

Aces Fore Austin Charity Golf Scramble Grand National - RTJ - Lake Course, 3000 Robert Trent Jones Trail. Opelika Funds raised through Aces

Fore Austin will support the University of Alabama at Birmingham’s (UAB) Undiagnosed Disease Program & the Raiden Science Foundation’s research project with Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU) on a drug repurposing program for UBA5 mutation, and the Austin 1st Foundation mission. www.austin1stfoundation.org/events

An Evening with Jason Isbell

7:00 PM Gogue Performing Arts Center, 910 South College St. Auburn The six-time Grammy winner and rock ‘n’ roll icon celebrated a remarkable year in 2023, starring in Martin Scorsese’s Killers of the Flower Moon and releasing his ninth studio album, Weathervanes.

http://goguecenter.auburn.edu/calendar-2023-24/

Tuesday, June 11

Family Discovery Hike: Native Plants

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

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

Summer Swing: Route 66

7:00 PM, Municipal Park, Opelika For over 39 years this horn-driven group of local professionals has been delivering their eclectic mix of Soul, R&B, Motown, Rock Classics and Americana in the styles of Marvin Gaye, Sam & Dave, Al Green, Van Morrison and many others.

www.opelika-al.gov/544/Park-Bench-Activity-Guide

Wednesday, June 12

Military Appreciation Days

Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Pkwy, Montgomery All military personnel and their families receive FREE admission to the Zoo and the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Food, drinks and refreshments are also provided. Thank you for proudly serving. www.montgomeryzoo.com

Thursday, June 13

Military Appreciation Days

Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Pkwy, Montgomery All military personnel and their families receive FREE admission to the Zoo and the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Food, drinks and refreshments are also provided. Thank you for proudly serving. www.montgomeryzoo.com

Sundilla Presents the Kim Richey Band (Advance tickets are $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, Foodies.)

7:30 PM, AUUF, 450 E. Thatch Ave. Auburn www.sundillamusic.com

Saturday, June 15

Science on Saturday: Raptors Tickets are $5 ($4 for members) children 3 and under are free.

10:00 AM - 11:00 AM, Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn Auburn University’s Southeastern Raptor Center will visit to show you some of these incredible birds, up-close and in-person. The program will include a variety of live raptors, most native to Alabama, and you will learn all about their habitat, natural history, and the challenges facing these majestic creatures. natureeducation@auburn.edu

Calendar

Family Splash

10:30 AM - 4:30 PM,, Samford Pool, Auburn Bring your family and friends because admission is FREE all day long. Make sure to sign up for the cannon ball contests and belly flop contests and be sure to participate in lifeguard bingo. Registration is required for the cannon ball and bellyflop contests only. (334) 501-2940

Sunday, June 16

Father’s Day at the Zoo

2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery A big thank you to all the dads out there. With much gratitude and appreciation of your dedicated and loyal service to our sons and daughters, please celebrate Father’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. All Dads receive FREE admission to the Montgomery Zoo and the Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. Join us for Dad’s special day. www.montgomeryzoo.com

Tuesday, June 18

Come From Away

7:00 PM RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 910 South College St. Auburn Broadway’s Come From Away is a Best Musical winner all across North America! This is a remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships.

http://goguecenter.auburn.edu/come-from-away/

Summer Swing: GP-38

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Municipal Park, Opelika For over 39 years this horn-driven group of local professionals has been delivering their eclectic mix of Soul, R&B, Motown, Rock Classics and Americana in the styles of Marvin Gaye, Sam & Dave, Al Green, Van Morrison and many others.

www.opelika-al.gov/544/Park-Bench-Activity-Guide

Wednesday, June 19

Alabama Sheriffs Youth Ranch Memorial Children’s Charity Golf Tournament

Grand National - RTJ - Lake Course, 3000 Robert Trent Jones Trail, Opelika Charity in honor of the 8 children who lost their lives in a tragic accident on I-65 on June 19, 2021. The proceeds from this tournament go directly to the Alabama Sheriffs Youth Ranches, where these children were residing at the time of the accident, to honor these children and continue the legacy of helping Alabama’s children in need.

334.462.0432

Come From Away

7:00 PM RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 910 South College St. Auburn Broadway’s Come From Away is a Best Musical winner all across North America! This is a remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships.

http://goguecenter.auburn.edu/come-from-away/

Tuesday, June 20

Come From Away

7:00 PM RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, 910 South College St. Auburn Broadway’s Come From Away is a Best Musical winner all across North America! This is a remarkable true story of 7,000 stranded passengers and the small town in Newfoundland that welcomed them. Cultures clashed and nerves ran

FamilyCalendar

high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships.

http://goguecenter.auburn.edu/come-from-away/

Friday, June 21

Food Truck Friday

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

Saturday, June 22

Battle of the Bands

11:00 AM, Botanic, 1702 Fredrick Road, Opelika

Twelve bands will battle it out for your vote! Catch all the action across 3 stages, with vendors in between, cash bars, and a huge shrimp boil. This will be Botanic’s BIGGEST event yet, don’t miss out!

Thursday, July 4

Stat Spangled Beach Party

Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, Ga Celebrate summer days and starry nights with our weekendlong July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party! Enjoy three days of family adventures on the sunny shores of Robin Lake Beach with beach volleyball, putt putt, and water activities like stand-up paddle boarding. Play all day on floating obstacle course Aqua Island. Each day ends with a bang thanks to our nightly Fireworks Extravaganza; a spectacular salute to summer.

www.callawaygardens.com/beach/events/4th-of-july/

Annual 4th of July Celebration (FREE to the public)

Summer Swing: Martha’s Trouble

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Municipal Park, Opelika For over 39 years this horn-driven group of local professionals has been delivering their eclectic mix of Soul, R&B, Motown, Rock Classics and Americana in the styles of Marvin Gaye, Sam & Dave, Al Green, Van Morrison and many others.

www.opelika-al.gov/544/Park-Bench-Activity-Guide

Saturday, July 13

Second Saturday at Pioneer Park

9:00 AM, 6500 Stage Road, Loachapoka, Al On the second Saturday of every month, a group of history re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts. Blacksmiths are working at the forge, spinners and weavers are in the textile room, the gardeners are in the gardens, crafts and seasonal activities are scheduled, and someone is always cooking up a meal in the fireplace or outdoors.

www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org/second-saturday

Float-in-Movie: Jaws

Family Art Fun Tickets are $5 ($4 for members) 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn Learn about many different watercolor techniques while creating your own masterpiece. We will start with simple techniques and work our way up. (334) 707-6512

Tuesday, June 25

Summer Swing: Muse

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM,, Municipal Park, Opelika For over 39 years this horn-driven group of local professionals has been delivering their eclectic mix of Soul, R&B, Motown, Rock Classics and Americana in the styles of Marvin Gaye, Sam & Dave, Al Green, Van Morrison and many others.

www.opelika-al.gov/544/Park-Bench-Activity-Guide

July 1-7

Fantastic Fourth Celebration

Stone Mountain Park, Ga Don’t miss the Annual Fantastic Fourth Celebration! The Atlanta JournalConstitution readers have voted Stone Mountain Park as the best place in Atlanta to enjoy fireworks during the Fourth of July holiday.

Tuesday, July 2

Summer Swing: Crossroads

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Municipal Park, Opelika For over 39 years this horn-driven group of local professionals has been delivering their eclectic mix of Soul, R&B, Motown, Rock Classics and Americana in the styles of Marvin Gaye, Sam & Dave, Al Green, Van Morrison and many others.

www.opelika-al.gov/544/Park-Bench-Activity-Guide

Wednesday, July 3

Opelika Freedom Celebration

6:30 PM - 9:30 PM, Opelika High School, 1700 LaFayette Pkwy, Opelika Join the Opelika Parks & Recreation and Opelika community at the Freedom Celebration at Opelika High School on July 3rd! 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

5:00 PM Duck Samford Stadium, 1840 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn Celebrate Independence Day with the entire Auburn Community! Enjoy great food and treats for purchase, giveaways, free inflatables, children’s activities, and live music. Gates open at 5:00 p.m. Fireworks begin at 9:00 p.m. The rain date is Friday, July 5th. (334) 501-2941

Friday, July 5

Stat Spangled Beach Party

Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, Ga Celebrate summer days and starry nights with our weekendlong July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party! Enjoy three days of family adventures on the sunny shores of Robin Lake Beach with beach volleyball, putt putt, and water activities like stand-up paddle boarding. Play all day on floating obstacle course Aqua Island. Each day ends with a bang thanks to our nightly Fireworks Extravaganza; a spectacular salute to summer.

www.callawaygardens.com/beach/events/4th-of-july/

Food Truck Friday

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

Saturday, July 6

Stat Spangled Beach Party

Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, Ga Celebrate summer days and starry nights with our weekendlong July 4th Star Spangled Beach Party! Enjoy three days of family adventures on the sunny shores of Robin Lake Beach with beach volleyball, putt putt, and water activities like stand-up paddle boarding. Play all day on floating obstacle course Aqua Island. Each day ends with a bang thanks to our nightly Fireworks Extravaganza; a spectacular salute to summer.

www.callawaygardens.com/beach/events/4th-ofjuly/

Tuesday, July 9

Family Discovery Hike: Water Systems

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

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

8:00 PM - 11:00 PM, Samford Pool, 465 Wrights Mill Road, Auburn If you’re brave enough to enter the water, join the Samford Pool Staff as they screen the ever-popular 1975 film JAWS! Doors open at 7:30 p.m., concessions available for purchase and pool floats available first come first served. www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Tuesday, July 16

Summer Swing: James Brown Trio

7:00 PM - 8:00 PM,, Municipal Park, Opelika For over 39 years this horn-driven group of local professionals has been delivering their eclectic mix of Soul, R&B, Motown, Rock Classics and Americana in the styles of Marvin Gaye, Sam & Dave, Al Green, Van Morrison and many others.

www.opelika-al.gov/544/Park-Bench-Activity-Guide

Friday, July 19

Food Truck Friday

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

July 19-28

Finding Nemo Jr. Springer Opera House, 103 10th Street, Columbus, Ga Join the cast of Finding Nemo for a vibrant underwater world that comes to life on stage with music, family, friendship, and adventure. www.springeroperahouse.org/springerproductions/finding-nemo-jr

Friday, July 26

Cheers on the Cheer

6:00 PM - 10:00 PM, Downtown Auburn Cool off this summer at Cheers on the Corner, an annual taste of downtown Auburn. During this sips and bites trail, guests will be provided a small pour of wine or bubbles paired with a savory bite from restaurants like The Hound, Acre, Draft House, and more. You will also receive a complimentary souvenir glass. www.downtownauburnonline.com/events

FamilyCalendar Theatre:

Every Saturday Market Days

Uptown Columbus, GA Each Saturday, three blocks along Broadway host over 100 local and regional vendors. Visitors can expect to find fresh and organic produce, home goods, jewelry, unique crafts, and delicious baked goods. Market Days is the perfect Saturday activity for family, friends, and visitors. Don’t forget to bring your furry pals to get in on the fun.

alwaysuptown.com/events-calendar/2024/6/1/ market-days-on-broadway

O Grows Community Garden

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

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

Every Saturday (Thru August 31)

City Market

8:00 AM - 11:00 PM, Town Creek Park, 1150 South Gay Street, Auburn City Market invites the community, growers, and consumers alike to join us every Saturday from May 18 to August 31 from 8 - 11 a.m. 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/

June 13-30

Zelda in the Backyard

ASF, Montgomery When Libby inherits a wrecked 1961 Rolls Royce, she sets off on a journey to reassemble the car and pieces of the past her father left behind. From the playwright of Gee’s Bend and White Lightning, Zelda in the Backyard is a story of love and loss, and all the roads in between. asf.net/zelda-in-the-backyard

July 11- August 11

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

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

https://asf.net/joseph-and-the-amazing-technicolordreamcoat

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

Katherine McKenzie

AOP: Tell me about you!

KM: I am originally from Monroeville, a small town known as the literary capital of Alabama. I am bilingual because my mother is Costa Rican, and although I don’t have the opportunity to visit often, it is still a vital part of my identity. Some describe me as a jack of all trades since I have worked as a licensed massage therapist, cake decorator, barista, waitress, and now an academic advisor. I transferred to Auburn University in 2014, bringing my husband and me to the area. We never left.

AOP: With two full-time working parents in the home, how do you navigate your evenings with young children?

KM: The girls usually get home and play for a while. We have really been enjoying the warmer weather lately, so playing outside has been a popular choice. I tend to cover dinner, Brad cleans the kitchen, we both help with bath time, and then we all read books together before splitting up into separate bedrooms to sing songs, say prayers, and create elaborate bedtime stories based on the girls’ requests. We then trade off to give kisses and hugs to the other kiddo. I would love to think we are like the family from Bluey.

AOP: You have been an Academic Advisor for the College of Liberal Arts at Auburn since 2017. How has becoming a mother impacted your personal and professional life?

KM: I would say the impact was significant at first, but as time has passed, I have grown more confident in my roles as a mother and a professional. Things are so much smoother now, but at first, it seemed like I constantly had to call out for another case of the sniffles. Family always comes first, but that doesn’t make it easier when I have to miss out on a work commitment. I had my first daughter in 2019, so I am no stranger to the pandemic ZOOM meetings with a crying toddler on my hip. My job entails building rapport with students, and I want to do that to serve them truly. Work-life balance is no joke and is something I still strive for.

AOP: Working outside the home and having two young children can make for one tired momma. How do you practice self-care and prioritize your own needs?

KM: I am very fortunate to have a supportive partner who encourages me to practice self-care because otherwise, I tend not to prioritize it much. I really find that being creative allows me to unwind and feel refreshed. I love putting on my headphones and expressing myself through painting, furniture flipping, and, recently, photography. It clears my mind and brings me joy. A massage doesn’t hurt either.

AOP: How do you stay connected with your partner while being a mother?

KM: The evenings are ours. We might just unplug and watch “The Office” for the 7th time after the girls have gone to bed, or lately, we’ve had impromptu dinner dates where we drop the girls off with my mom, grab some food, and just talk. It helps to truly LIKE your partner. Brad and I have been together for almost 15 years, and we genuinely like being around each other.

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

KM: I am a perpetual overthinker, so I have been learning to give myself some grace. We are all trying our best, and as long as we have pure and good intentions, as long as we keep showing up, keep trying, grow in our patience, and allow ourselves some grace, we will be the parents our children need, and they will love us just as unconditionally as we love them.

AOP: What values do you prioritize in your parenting?

KM: Parenting has made me slow down and reflect on what is important. I would say we try our best to build a home that prioritizes the following:

• Manners - Please and thank yous are important around here!

• Patience - This is something we want to instill in our girls, but also something we work on as well. They know we are humans with real emotions and hope they learn to feel comfortable with the self-regulation process.

• Confidence - We want them to believe in themselves and know that their feelings, thoughts, and actions matter.

• Kindness - We can only know and try and control our own feelings and actions. We don’t know what others experience, so kindness can make all the difference.

• Perseverance - We are clear about how failure is a normal aspect of life and that learning from it is what helps us grow. Never lose heart.

Rapid Fire Questions:

1. Morning or Night? I can’t believe I am saying this, but morning!

2. What is your favorite word? Cake

3. Sweet or Savory? Sweet

4. Vacation or Staycation? Vacation

5. Indoor activities or outdoor? Outdoors

Katherine McKenzie and her husband, Brad, have been married for 12 years. Katherine describes him as the calm to her worry. They have two daughters, Ellie (4) and Isla (2). The girls have wonderful, unique, and strong personalities. On the weekends, you can find the family at the Opelika Public Library or Town Creek Inclusive Park.