Auburn Opelika Parents August 2017 by KeepSharing

August2017

Volume 8 Number 6

Columns

Publisher’s Note Kendra Sumner

Living With Children John Rosemond

Strategies for Academic Success

Growing Up Online

Practical ideas to help your child become more organized.

What to consider before using GPS trackers to locate your child.

Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Beyond Burnout and Bickering

After School Activities

Avoid over-scheduling so kids can individuate.

It’s time to sign your child up for after school enrichment, and our guide has all the details.

On The Cover Lauryn Kamille is the daughter of David and Dr. Kressida Benson and is a happy, energetic fiveyear-old who is looking forward to starting first grade at Richland Elementary School. Lauryn enjoys singing, reading, painting and riding her bike, but her favorite activities have been learning ballet, tap and hip hop at Nix Dance Studio. Lauryn attends Greater Peace Missionary Baptist Church where she is involved in Sunday School and sings in the youth choir. Currently, she is enjoying summer activities including summer camp at Creative Discovery Child Development Center, swimming and vacationing at the beach.

Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

Departments 5

Bits and Pieces 10

School Bits 44

Calendar 52

Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Publisher’sNote It’s time to head back to school! Summer literally just started and it seems that I blinked and school is back in session. I don’t know about your family, but mine would be grateful for another month of summer days. Swimming, hanging with friends, traveling and exploring were just some of the highlights of our laid back summer schedules. No rushing around to get to an appointment, activity or event. Instead, we filled the days and nights with family time, memories and more fun than we thought possible. But, all good things must come to an end. Sadly, we will put away our sunblock and floats and get our backpacks and study spots organized for another school year! I do love the downtime that summer brings, but my personality, and therefore our home, thrives on organization, structure and planning. This school year, my four children will be in four different schools. My oldest daughter is starting high school (I can’t believe I just said that) and my oldest son is headed to junior high (where does the time go?). The younger two will be ruling their schools (in more ways than one) as 5th and 2nd graders. Also, each one has after school sports and hobbies that start back in the fall too. To get ahead of what could quickly turn into chaos, I purposely plan and organize to create order that will help our days run smoothly. In this month’s feature articles, Beyond Burnout and Bickering and 3 Strategies for Academic Success, the authors give great ideas on how to start this school year on the right foot. Being disorganized and over-scheduled can be two main reasons why students have trouble transitioning from summer downtime to school focused. One suggested tip is to help your students write down assignments and projects on a calendar, where they can keep themselves reminded of the assignment, and to use their time wisely, as to not procrastinate. This organizational plan is easy to do in August and September and tends to fall by the wayside after Christmas break. For us, the staying on top of deadlines and maintaining order can become overwhelming by December, because of the added events we include on our already full calendar. Does your family feel the burnout by midyear too? This school year, my goals are to prioritize my own calendar and to allow for downtime. Let’s face it, most of the added activities in the fall are arranged and scheduled by mom or dad. Whether it is just one more music lesson, club at school or batting practice that gets put on the calendar, each one can quickly add up to more hours of activities. This can lead to burnout and stressed out students! Ask your children to make a list of their interests and to prioritize them. Help them choose what they would like to explore this school year and then stick to the plan. Don’t forget that there will be fall events and holiday fun coming up, so lead by example and only commit to the ones that are top priority. For me, we will not miss out on Auburn tailgating this fall and East Alabama Community Ballet’s production of The Nutcracker this Christmas. One of the best tips given this month is to factor in downtown for the family. Make it a priority. It is a time to spend together to reconnect and de-stress. Sunday dinner at the kitchen table can be just what the family needs to get ready for another week of tests or job deadlines and the afternoon hustle to after school activities. Don’t forget to check out our August calendar and the After School Activities Guide in this month’s issue. This is a great place to start with your kids, to help them find the perfect after school plans. Whether this year will be jazz classes or piano lessons, you will be sure to find something for everyone. From one parent to another, here’s to another successful school year in the making!

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

Auburn Opelika Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher Kendra Sumner Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Mark Gregston Carolyn Jabs Christina Katz Dave Ramsey Michele Ranard, M.Ed. John Rosemond Ellen Royal, M.D. Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

President Jason Watson Director of Sales Justin Sumner (334) 209-0552 Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 475 Bennington Ct, Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2016 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Are You Giving Your Kids “Vitamin N”? I call it “Vitamin N.” It is the word children need to hear most, but it is currently the word children hear least. It is arguably the most character-building word in the English language, but then helping children achieve great things (or creating the illusion that they are achieving great things) has eclipsed helping children build strong character. That is unfortunate indeed because high achievement alone does not produce solid character, but a person with solid character will always do his or her best. Children do not know what is in their own best interests. They are shortsighted, pleasure-seeking, impulsive, and instant-gratification oriented. They have great difficulty realizing that pain often leads to gain, failure to accomplishment, and that putting off reward often results in even greater reward. The job—it is their primary job, in fact—of parents and other adult caregivers is to determine and do what is in children’s best interests. That sometimes means incurring wrath, which is one of a short list of reasons why adults should never, ever want

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

to be liked by children. The fact that an adult knows he loves the child who momentarily hates him, loves the child enough to make the supreme sacrifice (which the child cannot grasp and will not until he has children of his own), is sufficient. When people of my generation get together, the conversation often gets around to what we see going on with today’s parents. We share our observations with one another in large part because many if not most of today’s parents are not interested in our observations. They see their children with tunnel vision and cannot fathom that their preoccupation could possibly be a handicap to both themselves and their kids. Tunnel vision is, after all, a form of blindness. The above conversation always, without exception, comes down to one conclusion: today’s parents, despite their good intentions, are their own and their children’s worst enemies. The so-called “issues” they are having with their kids are the logical result of their parenting behavior. They complain about these difficulties but God help the boomer

who points out, however diplomatically, that they, not their children, are the problem. They argue with their children not because their children are argumentative, but because they explain themselves. Their children do not do what they are told because the parents in question do not tell; rather, they suggest. Their children are petulant and ungrateful because they indulge. Their children have never learned to pay attention to adults or take adults seriously, therefore they disobey and are disrespectful. And so on. Perhaps the most ubiquitous of all contemporary parenting complaints is “My child can’t take ‘no’ for an answer.” It is the aural equivalent of “My child won’t eat broccoli.” In both cases, it is the absence of what the child supposedly cannot take or eat that causes the child’s aversion. The solution to a loathing of broccoli is broccoli, as in, “Your dinner is two florets of broccoli. When you have eaten them, you may have ample portions of what the rest of us are having.” Likewise, a child who cannot take “no” for an answer simply needs lots more of it. The best “vitamins,” after all, are those that are the hardest to swallow. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Auburn Football Fan Day

Auburn's annual Fan Day is scheduled for August 19 from 3:30-5:30 p.m. This annual preseason event gives Tiger fans a unique opportunity to interact with their favorite players and coaches. Access to the practice facility area will open at approximately 3:15 p.m. to allow fans to begin getting in line for autographs. The autograph session will end promptly at 5:30 p.m. Fans may enter the practice facility area at 3:15 p.m. Fans are encouraged to park north of the complex (coliseum, arena, Biggio Drive, stadium deck). Posters and schedule cards will also be provided at no charge. The 2017 Auburn Football team will be located in the Indoor Practice Facility. Aubie, Cheerleaders, Tiger Paws, Volleyball and Soccer will be located in the Watson Fieldhouse. In order to serve as many fans as possible, each fan may only bring ONE item to be signed. Autograph items are not restricted as long as they can be transported by one person without holding up the line and do not pose a safety hazard or impede the line. www.auburntigers.com

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Magical Creatures Program at the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum

On August 12, meet some of the magical animals that are featured in movies like Harry Potter series and â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Hobbitâ&#x20AC;?. You will get a chance to meet animals up close, learn about them in their habitats, and take home some special prizes for yourself. Make new discoveries and new friends. Geared for boys and girls, 4-10 years old, advanced reservations required. Child (participant) fee: $25 per child (ages 5-12 years old), $18 for Montgomery Zoo members. Accompanying adults fee (13 years old and older): $15, Montgomery Zoo members: FREE. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

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Make Music Day

Comedy Café with Ken Davis, Sponsored by Youth for Christ

Spicer's Music is proud to be hosting the state of Alabama's largest city-wide Make Music Day celebration, and they want you to be a part of it! The second annual Make Music Day Alabama will be on Tuesday, August 22, at 6 p.m. at the Gay Street Municipal Parking Lot in downtown Auburn. Last year hundreds of music-loving participants showed up in hopes of beating the Guinness record for the world’s largest band, almost claiming the title. Coming close to beating the record set by China with 953 people rocking out together, Auburn’s first-ever Make Music Day saw an impressive 850 musical attendees. This year Spicer’s Music is confident they will beat the record. Registration, found at www.spicersmusic.com, is free and open to all musicians. By participating in Make Music Day, Spicer’s Music and the Auburn-Opelika community encourage every form of music making.

Join us for the Youth for Christ Comedy Cafe with Guest Comedian Ken Davis on Tuesday, August 22 at 6:30 p.m. at The Bottling Plant Event Center in downtown Opelika. For more information contact (334) 501-5637 or yfc@insideyfc.com.

Opelika Sportsplex Triathlon for Kids

The Opelika Sportsplex Triathlon for Kids will be held at the Opelika Sportsplex and Aquatics Center August 5 for kids ages 6-15 (5 year olds may participate in the Kids Triathlon or the Small Fry Tri). Ages 6-8 will swim 50 yards, bike 1.5 miles, run 500 yards. Ages 9-11: swim 100 yards, bike 3 miles, run 1 mile. Ages 12-15: swim 150 yards, bike 6 miles, run 2 miles. NO ASSISTANCE WILL BE GIVEN WHILE SWIMMING. KIDS MAY HANG ON LANE DIVIDERS, BUT MUST ADVANCE UNASSISTED. Each participant will receive a t-shirt and medal. Pricing: May 25-July 21: $30/ child, After July 21: $35/child. Discount of $5 per child when signing-up 3 or more children. NO SAME DAY REGISTRATION! Pre-registration is required. The 12-15 Year Old Division will begin at 7:30 a.m., the 9-11 year old wave and 6-8 year old wave will follow. www.sportsplextriforkids.com.

Summer Swing Concert: Back to School Bash: August 1

Back-To-School 2017 August 3: First Day of School for Opelika City Schools. www.opelikaschools.org August 9: First Day of School for Auburn City Schools. www.auburnschools.org

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

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Every Tuesday evening, the Opelika Parks and Recreation Dept. hosts a free outdoor concert at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Park in Opelika. This 13-week concert series offers a wide variety of musical entertainment including Gospel, Soul, Jazz, R&B, Oldies, Country, Big Band Swing, Folk and Community Band music. The Opelika Band Boosters prepare hamburgers and hotdogs for a nominal fee from 6:15-7:30 p.m., ideal for a family picnic. Charter Bank of Opelika will provide complimentary lemonade during the concerts. The Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train with long, rich history has been restored and is back on the tracks for complimentary rides. Come out early! Bring the whole family, a quilt or lawn chair and relax on the bank of Rocky Brook Creek for an evening of musical fun, fellowship and relaxation. 334-705-5567.

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Second Saturday at Pioneer Park, Loachapoka

On August 12th and 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. The Whistle Stop Pickers dulcimer group meets at the Museum at 1 p.m. The Museum is always open on Second Saturdays. Activities are different each month. Come join the fun, eat lunch, learn a new craft, pick a song, listen to the music. The activities are available from 9:30 until 12:30. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org.

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Auburn Area Community Theatre Jr. Fall Show Auditions for “The Jungle Book”

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn. Open auditions, August 14-15, for ages 5 – 12. This version is not a musical, but there will be instruments and dancing incorporated into the story. Please come prepared to show us your best jungle animal moves and sounds. You can sign up for a time slot or simply show up. The sign up list, and short selections from the script, will be available at the front desk of JDCAC on Monday, August 7. Auditions: August 14-15, 3:00-6:00 p.m. Callbacks: August 17, 3:00-7:00 p.m. Rehearsals: Monday and Wednesday, August 21-October 4, 4:00-6:00 p.m. and Saturday, August 26-September 30, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 noon. *No rehearsals 9/2 and 9/4. Production: October 12-14. Contact: Melanie Brown • AACT • (334) 332-6834 supersugarmel@gmail.com.

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

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

Anne Morgan Howell Anne Riley Hefelfinger Anslee Baccus Anthony Driver Anthony Lopez April Halverson Ariana O’neill Armiah Childs Aubrey Pilgrim Aubri Mathis Austin Burt Austin Mcconnell Ava Jane Ava Jones Ava Sturkie Ayden Bellamy Azarey Streeter Baxlee Boone Baylee Bryant Baylee Curtis Beau King Benjamin Darnell Bentley Matthews Benton Burnette Bianca Cole Boris Miles Braden Hufstedler Brady Mcnally Brady Rhyne Brandon Fears Brandon Green Brandon Mcclendon Brantley Knight Brayden Brooks

Brendyn Stender Brennan Harrison Brian Eaton Bristol Swader Brooke Price Brooks Johnson Bryan Collins Cade Pridgen Caden Walker Caitlin Jackson Callie Newton Cameron Mathershed Camille Hurey Camp Hendrix Camron Sanford Carmelo Washington Caroline Murphree Caroline Thompson Carolyn Phelps Carsen Etheredge Carter Barnes Carter Demyan Casey Carruthers Casey Kichler Catherine Hadley Chaney Thomas Chaney Thomas Charle Wilson Charles Conner Radford Iii Charlie Ann Lee Chase Carpenter Chase Eldred Christian Madzar Christian Nelson

Christopher Rainwater Claire Mckay Claire Nappier Claire Sipes Clara Hayes Johnson Clay Decker Cohen Burt Colton Hamon Colton Tew Coltyn Mattimore Connelly Etheredge Conor Newman Cooper Haynes Cora Beth Brooks Cordrevius Wilson Coty Pinedo Culver Murphree Dakota Rosier Damarious Spraddling David Andrew Holderfield David Nelson Rhyne David Pifer David Rosier Jr Davison Holley Demahdric Brown Demetraus Walker Demon Spraddling Demone Edwards Dennis Li Deramus Green Jr Desmond Gilliam Desmond Lewis Destinee Gilliam Devin Mcglon

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

“Vaccinations” Questions Answered What are the current recommendations for vaccination? The routine vaccines given today protect for: diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, HIB, rotavirus, measles, mumps, rubella, pneumococcal, hepatitis A and B, HPV, meningococcal and influenza infections. A detailed schedule is available online at www.cdc.gov/vaccine. We begin vaccinating babies at birth, 1, 2, 4, 6, 9, 12, 15 and 18 months. Then booster shots are given at 5 years (the kindergarten shots) and again at 11-12 years. As you can see there are a lot of immunizations to be given, especially in the first 18 months of life. It is therefore very important to adhere to the current recommended schedule so that all of the immunizations can be received. Why do we still need vaccines? Fortunately, most of us have grown up in an era free of diseases like polio, tetanus, diphtheria, and measles. We are a generation removed from the experience of children dying from these once common diseases. Make no mistake though, these illnesses are still out in the world and could become commonplace again if we don’t continue to immunize. Not only do vaccines protect the individual, but when many people are vaccinated we are all protected by “herd” immunity. This means that when most people are immune to a certain infection, they cannot pass it along to those who have not been immunized. This herd immunity also

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

protects those that are too young to receive a certain immunization or those immunocompromised due to illness or chemotherapy. What happens when not enough children get immunized? Recently outbreaks of measles have occurred. Unfounded fears about giving measles vaccine (MMR) lead to many people refusing vaccines for their children. This group was unprotected and then accidentally exposed to the measles. The measles virus is extremely contagious and quickly spread to many other unvaccinated people. These are a preventable events. How can we be sure that vaccines are safe? In our current Google /internet savvy society, there are now many myths about immunizations that have gotten perpetuated. As a pediatrician, I hear many of the concerns that parents have about immunizations. One is that there is a link between autism and MMR or other vaccines. This has been proven false in numerous scientific studies, the most recent being a study at Columbia University in 2008. The study found no link between MMR and autism. A second myth is that giving too many vaccines at once could somehow over power the immune system, or be too much for the body. Fortunately this is not true. As our body can handle several infections at once, so too can it respond to multiple vaccines given at once. Also remember that the vaccine is only

a killed or weakened version of the bacteria or virus. You cannot get the infection from the immunization. There are some side affects from vaccines- the most common being fever, pain at the injection site and soreness after the injection. These can be relieved with Tylenol. Rarely an allergic reaction can occur to part of the vaccine components. If this occurs, the allergy is treated and the vaccine should not be given again. Other adverse reactions are extremely rare. Finally, Vaccinating your child is one of the best and most important decisions you make to keep your child healthy. It is important to get all the facts so that you can make an informed decision. Some websites I recommend include: www.aap.org and www.cdc. gov/vaccines. Talk with your doctor about your concerns, and keep your child’s well check up appointments. Prevention is truly our best ally in the fight against infectious disease. Dr. Ellen Royal attended the University of South Alabama College of Medicine for her medical degree and graduated in 1994. She returned to Alabama the summer of 1998 to join the pediatric practice of Dr. Richard M. Freeman. Dr. Royal is a member of the Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is board certified in Pediatrics. Dr. Royal is married to Dr. Kevin Royal who practices Internal Medicine in Opelika and they have three children.

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Autauga County Schools

Welcome Back to School!

It’s been a busy summer getting ready for the new school year. As soon as school ended in May, our technology team began installing 79 new Clear Touch panels in all homeroom classrooms grades K-3. Our teachers and students have benefitted greatly from this new technology and we plan to continue to install panels throughout the system as funds become available. During the spring semester, OCS also began using Google Expedition kits to enhance learning in all grades. OCS purchased one kit and it has been extremely popular with both teachers and students. It allows the students to travel all over the world through virtual reality. It’s amazing! Our teachers have been working hard throughout the summer participating in professional development courses to enhance math and science skills. At the beginning of last year, Gayle Holladay joined our staff as an instructional math coach to serve all elementary schools. Mrs. Holladay worked at Opelika Middle School for 17 years prior to working with the Alabama Math, Science, and Technology Initiative (AMSTI) at the state level. Her professional experience has been invaluable to our staff. In addition to working with our instructional coaches on the math standards, she has worked with all of the math teachers to enhance math instruction using Math Investigations. In July, we welcomed Mr. Chuck Beams as our newest board of education member. Mr. O.D. Alsobrook retired in June after 19 years of dedicated service. The board members recognized Mr. Alsobrook for his service during the OCS retirement tea and board meeting in May. Mr. Alsobrook will be greatly missed but we look forward to working with Mr. Beams as a new member and with Mrs. Patsy Boyd Parker as our new board chair. We look forward to the 2017-18 school and seeing all of our students on Thursday, August 3rd. As always, thank you for your support of the Opelika City Schools. Sincerely, Mark Neighbors, Superintendent Opelika City Schools

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

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

www.growin groomu sa.co m Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

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Autauga County Schools

This summer has been one of many achievements for Auburn City Schools. As school came to a close this past May, we opened the doors to the beautiful 350,000 square-foot Auburn High School located at 1701 East Samford Avenue. I want to thank everyone who came out to the ribbon cutting and open house. It truly was a momentous occasion! We have been in “moving mode” across all four of our secondary campuses adjusting to the realignment of grades and campuses for the new school year. Auburn Junior High is now located at 405 S. Dean Road serving our 8th and 9th graders; East Samford School is located at 332 Samford Avenue serving our 7th graders in its inaugural year and J.F. Drake Middle School, located at 655 Spencer Ave., will serve our 6th graders. The first day of class is Wednesday August 9, and as Superintendent of Auburn City Schools I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to all those who work hard to ensure the successes of this school system. That appreciation extends to parents, guardians, community members, school employees and students. Without you all we could not achieve excellence. ACS continues to excel academically, artistically and athletically, whether it is earning multiple AHSAA 7A Classification State Championships or having students and employees represent Auburn at the city, state and national level. The lists of accolades and recognitions are countless. Over the summer principals, teachers, administrators and support staff have been sharpening their skillsets with professional development opportunities to stay on ahead of the curve on educating young minds. I would like to welcome students and their families to what is going to be another successful school year for Auburn City Schools. The City of Auburn continues to offer a unique atmosphere for maintaining a strong foundation of public education and committing their efforts to the school system as our municipality progresses. Site-work is underway for the new elementary campus on Richland Road and excitement swells, as construction will begin soon. Many thanks are offered to our City officials, Board of Education members and the citizens for assisting the system in funding this phase. Back-to-school and contact information can be found at www.auburnschools.org or by calling your student’s school front office. You will also find back to school information in this month’s issue of Auburn-Opelika Parents. Here is to making 2017-2018 an excellent year! Sincerely, Karen T. DeLano, Ed.D. Superintendent, Auburn City Schools

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Autauga County Schools

Auburn Back-to-School Important Dates Curriculum Nights

Auburn High School Reconnect (by grade level) July 26: Seniors 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. July 26: Juniors 1:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. July 27: Sophomores 9 a.m.– 11:30 a.m. RECONNECT sessions provide an opportunity for AHS students and parents to pick up class schedules, purchase meal tickets, pay class dues, pick up parking hang tags and tour the facility. 11th and 12th graders are encouraged to complete the updated Pupil Information Cards and submit proof of residency prior to RECONNECT. Updated information can be turned into the front office at 1701 East Samford Ave., July 10-28, 2017. This will expedite the RECONNECT process and ensure that the student will be able to attend classes when school begins.

Auburn Early Education Center (721 E. University Drive) - See information above for meet-your-teacher night. Cary Woods Elementary Curriculum Nights (715 Sanders Street) - August 14: 2nd Grade Tours & Talks 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. - August 17: 1st Grade Tours & Talks 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. - August 23: Kindergarten Tours & Talks 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Pick Elementary Curriculum Nights (1320 N. College Street) - August 24: Title 1 Parent meeting for 3rd & 4th graders 4:45 p.m. to 5:15 p.m. - August 24: Parents meet teachers for 3rd & 4th graders 5:15 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. - August 24: Title 1 Parent meeting for 5th graders 5:45 p.m. to 6:15 p.m. -August 24: Parents meet teachers for 5th graders 6:15 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Dean Road Elementary Curriculum Nights (335 S. Dean Road) - August 28: Kindergarten 6:00 p.m. - August 29: 1st grade 6:00 p.m. - August 30: 2nd grade 6:00 p.m. - September 11: Title I/PTO meetings 6 :00 p.m. Wrights Mill Road Elementary Curriculum Nights (807 Wrights Mill Road) - August 22: 3rd Grade PTO/Curriculum Night 5:00 p.m. - August 23: 4th Grade PTO/Curriculum Night 5:00 p.m. - August 24: 5th Grade PTO/Curriculum Night 5:00 p.m. Ogletree Elementary Curriculum Nights (737 Ogletree Road) - August 14: 3rd Grade Curriculum Night in teacher classrooms- parents only, please. PTO meeting starts at 5:30 p.m. in the Common’s Area and meet your student’s teacher in classrooms until6:30 p.m. - August 15: 4th Grade Curriculum Night - parents only, please - meet in teacher’s classrooms 5:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. - August 15: 5th Grade Curriculum Night - parents only please - meet in teacher’s classrooms 6:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Richland Elementary Curriculum Nights (770 S. Yarbrough Farms Blvd) - August 24: Kindergarten 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - August 24: 1st Grade 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. - August 24: 2nd Grade 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m. Yarbrough Elementary School (1555 N. Donahue Drive) - See information above for meet-your-teacher night. Drake Middle School (655 Spencer Avenue) - See information above. East Samford School Curriculum Nights (332 Samford Avenue) August 15: - Accelerated Math 5:30 p.m. -6:00 p.m. - Bobcats and Jaguars 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. August 16: - Accelerated Math 5:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. - Cheetahs, Lions, and Cougars 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.

************************ Auburn Junior High School Information (405 S. Dean Road) July 11: Laptop Orientation in Auditorium 11:30 (For 8th grade students and new students to AJHS) July 13: Laptop Orientation in Auditorium 5:30 (For 8th grade students and new students to AJHS) July 18: Laptop Orientation in Auditorium 5:30 (For 8th grade students and new students to AJHS) July 25: Laptop Orientation in Auditorium 5:30 (For 8th grade students and new students to AJHS) July 26: 9th Grade schedule pickup in Cafeteria 8:30 – 11:30 July 27: 8th Grade schedule pickup in Cafeteria 8:30 – 11:30 Laptop Orientation in Auditorium 12:00 (For 8th grade students and new students to AJHS) August 7: Meet Your Teacher 2:00 – 4:00 (Follow student schedule) August 22: Curriculum Night 6:00 in Auditorium Students will be able to rent lockers, pay for laptop fees, purchase t-shirts, place money in lunch accounts, sign up for Project ID, join PTO and other grade level program fees. Below are laptop orientation dates and times. All parents/guardians new to AJHS are required to attend one of the sessions prior to school beginning. Auburn High School (1701 East Samford Avenue) ************************ August 7: All Elementary Schools Meet Your Teachers Grades K-2 4 p.m. – 6 p.m. Grades 3-5 5 p.m. – 7 p.m. August 7: East Samford School Open House (by Teams) - Jaguars, Bobcats and Cheetahs 8:30 a.m.– 10 a.m. - Cougars and Lions 10:30 a.m.- NOON August 7: Drake Middle School Open House (by Teams) - Panthers, Cosmic Cats and Tigers noon – 1:30 p.m. - Leopard and Pumas 2:00 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. August 7: Auburn Junior High School Open House 2 p.m. – 4 p.m.

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

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Opelika Back-to-School Important Dates OMS Schedule pick up is August 1, 9:00 a.m. for 6th graders and 1:00 p.m. for 7th and 8th graders.

2017-18 School Calendar

August 1, 7:30 - 10:00 a.m. and 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Meet Your Teacher (grades K-5) August 3, First Day of School (full day) September 4, Labor Day Holiday October 16-17, Fall Break October 18, Professional Day (students do not attend) November 10, Veteran’s Day Holiday November 20-24, Thanksgiving Holidays December 15, 1/2 day for students December 18, 2017 - January 1, 2018 Christmas and New Year’s Holidays January 2, Professional Day (students do not attend) January 3, Students return January 15, Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday February 19, President’s Day Holiday March 19-23, Spring Break (School dismisses March 16, 2018 and reopens March 26, 2018) April 6, Professional Day (students do not attend) April 9, April Break May 24, Last Day of School (1/2 day for students) May 25, Opelika High School Graduation *If a school day is missed due to bad weather, students will attend school February 19, April 6 or April 19.

OHS Freshman Orientation is July 27

Open House Dates

Opelika High School August 7, 6:00 p.m. Morris Avenue Intermediate School August 8, 5:30 p.m. (3rd grade only) August 10, 5:30 p.m. (4th and 5th grade) Opelika Middle School August 15, 6:00 p.m. Jeter Primary School August 24, 5:30 p.m.-Kindergarten 6:00 p.m.-1st grade; 6:30 p.m.-2nd grade Opelika Learning Center August 24, 8:00 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Southview Primary School August 29, 5:30 p.m.-Kindergarten 6:00 p.m.-1st grade; 6:30 p.m.-2nd grade Carver Primary School September 7, 6:00 p.m. Northside Intermediate School September 11, 6:00 p.m. West Forest Intermediate School September 14, 6:00 p.m.

Opelika City Schools Back to School Information Registration for Students Who Are New To the Opelika City Schools System: Students enrolling in the Opelika City Schools system may register any time between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. To be enrolled in kindergarten this fall, a child must be five (5) years old on or before September 2 of the year the child will be entering school. To be enrolled in first grade, a child must be six (6) years old on or before September 2 of the year the child will be entering school. All children who attend Opelika City Schools must live within the city limits of Opelika. Student transfers: Students transferring to the Opelika City Schools from other school systems need to first officially withdraw from their prior school system and request that transcripts be sent to the Opelika City Schools system, or bring an official withdrawal form from the prior school and we will send for transcripts. What you will need to register: Birth Certificate, State of Alabama Blue Certificate of Immunization, Child’s Social Security Card, Two current proofs of residency (gas, water, and electric bills accepted), Photo identification of parent or legal guardian (driver’s license, non-driver id, military id, etc.) to determine custodial relationship of child, Custodial Documentation (if applicable), Proof of Grade. Students Who Are Transferring Within the Opelika City Schools System Students transferring from one elementary school zone to another within the Opelika City Schools jurisdiction must first withdraw from the school he or she is leaving before enrolling in the new school. All fees and paperwork must be completed and cleared before any records can be transferred from one school to another within the system. School Day Hours Primary Schools 7:40 a.m. – 2:45 p.m. Intermediate Schools 7:45 a.m. – 2:50 p.m. Opelika Middle School 7:50 a.m. – 3:24 p.m. Opelika High School 7:55 a.m. – 3:25 p.m. Opelika Learning Center 7:45 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Opelika High School Delayed Start For the 2017-18 school year, OHS will have delayed start times on the following dates: 9/5/17, 11/14/17, 1/16/18, 2/20/18 and 3/12/18. Buses will run at normal times for those students needing transportation. Otherwise, students may report to school at 10:00 a.m. on the above dates. The call-in bell will be at 9:55 a.m. Primary, Intermediate and OMS Breakfast $1.00 Lunch $1.75

High School Breakfast $1.00 Lunch $2.00 13

Visitors (all schools) Breakfast $1.75 Lunch $3.25 www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Autauga County Schools 2017-18 Opelika High School Emissaries

The 2017-18 Opelika High School Emissaries were selected in the spring and will serve as official hosts and hostesses for many events and activities at OHS this year. The members were selected following a nomination and interview process with OHS faculty members. Pictured (l-r): Imani Debrow, Kristen Millender, Savannah Karl, Abrea Green, Katie Epperson, Peter Kambeitz, Callie Bagwell, Jamie Lowe, Avery Rajan, Turner Powers, Mary Bentley Barfield, Jamias Presley, Tiffany Boudty, Hank Brown, Sara Hollis Smith T, Conner Pruitt, Tori Baker, Ghania Warren, and Martlynn Grouby.

Opelika High School Seniors Awarded 2017 Killgore Scholarships

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Thirteen Opelika High School Seniors were awarded Killgore Scholarships in a recognition ceremony held in April at OHS. The scholarship was established by James and Ophelia Killgore and is awarded to graduating seniors based on their commitment to academic excellence. Recipients pictured (l-r): Frank Wright, Henry Smith T, RaKavius Chambers, Hope Harris, Megan Cook, Katie Young, Samantha Herring, Sarah Noon, Natalie Simpkins, Rachel Sharma, Peyton Brown, and Tanner Bennett. Not pictured-John David Worth. The Killgore scholars were also recognized by Mayor Gary Fuller and the Opelika City Council.

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Opelika HS Theatre

The Opelika High Theatre Society presents the 2017-18 Season! It's going to be great!

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Auburn HS Unveiled

Several thousand smiles were on hand as community members came out for the open house of the new 350,000 square-foot Auburn High School located at 1701 East Samford Ave. Classes start August 9th!

OHS Philanthropy 101 Donates $7700 to Local Non-profit Agencies

Members of the Opelika High School Philanthropy 101 program presented a total of $7700 in monetary donations to seven local non-profit organizations at the third annual presentation and luncheon. Eleven students gave presentations on selected non-profits and presented each group with a check. Recipients included: Opelika Grows, Big House, Food Bank of East Alabama, Jean Dean RIF, Storybook Farm, Miracle League of East Alabama, and The Exodus Ranch. The three week program, for rising seniors at OHS, introduces students to the principles of philanthropy and brings those principles to life through classroom learning and hands-on experiences. The program is sponsored by the W. James Samford, Jr. Foundation. Philanthropy 101 Members pictured (l-r): Dr. Farrell Seymore-OHS Principal, Ama Stephens, Savannah Karl, Alexandria Brinson, Jamie Lowe, Shaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Teria Patrick, Edward Faust, Alyssa Tucker, Wesley Modling, Ms. Lucinda Cannon-W. James Samford, Jr. Foundation, Peter Kambeitz, Kevin Trujillo-Galindo, Alexander Baker, Ms. Betsy Gore-Instructor, and Mr. Don Shirley-Instructor. 15

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SRO Employee of the Month

School Resource Officer Justin Fant (on left with APD Chief Paul Register on right) was named the City of Auburn's Employee of the month for June. In addition to protecting and serving Auburn High School, Officer Fant is instrumental in the coordination of DARE Camp each summer and has an eye for graphic design/ photography. FUN FACT: He designed the most current APD crest.

Autauga County Schools

AHS Teacher Named 2017 Alabama History Teacher of the Year

Auburn High's Dr. Blake Busbin has been selected as the 2017 Alabama History Teacher of the Year, an award presented annually by the Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History, the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s leading organization dedicated to K-12 American history education! As a part of the selection process, a panel of teachers, administrators and scholars from Alabama nominated Dr. Busbin for this honor because of his achievements in American history education. Inaugurated in 2004, the History Teacher of the Year Award highlights the crucial importance of history education and the it honors one K-12 teacher from each state, the District of Columbia, Department of Defense schools and US Territories. As one of fifty-three finalists, this honor qualifies Busbin to compete for the $10,000 National History Teacher of the Year Award.

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Thespians Travel for Int’l Competition

This is the 2nd consecutive year members of Thespian Troupe #89183, under the direction of Dr. Silvia D. Scaife, have earned the opportunity to travel to Lincoln, Nebraska to compete on an international level; representing their schools, their district, their community, and their state quite well and bringing home ratings from fair to superior in theatrical categories including monologues, playwriting, duet performances, and student leadership. Nick DiJulio – Male Monologue (Superior; Excellent); Abby Durkin and Faith Glover – Female Duet Acting (Superior; Excellent); Joshua Bramblett – Playwriting (Superior); Alexia VanSlyke and Mark Middleton – Mixed Duet Acting (Fair; Good) Kade Hand – Student Leadership. Pictured Front Row (l-r): Abby Durkin, Alexia VanSlyke, Faith Glover. Back Row: Silvia D. Scaife, John DiJulio, Mark Middleton, Joshua Bramblett, Kade Hand, Michelle Hopf, Nick DiJulio.

Auburn City Schools Recognizes Educator

The ACS Board of Education recognized Ed Crum for his 26 years of service to the school system! An Auburn High Graduate, Coach Crum actually started with ACS as a volunteer coach in 1984 while still in college at Auburn University. In 1989 Crum came on part-time as a substitute teacher while he earned his first Masters Degree (in economics education) before being hired full-time in 1991 to coach and teach social studies. In his time, early on Ed was a part of coaching staffs for football, baseball and basketball at a variety of levels before becoming the Head Coach for Softball from 1995 to 2009 when he took on the role of Assistant to the Athletic Director (2009-2017). Thousands of students and studentathletes have been positively impacted by Coach Crum and his kind demeanor in his 30+ years with the school system. 17

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Autauga County Schools

ACS Handball Teams Compete in Alabama State Games

ACS Handball teams from Pick, Ogletree and Yarbrough Elementary Schools competed in the 2017 Alabama State Games in Dothan. The tournament was a round robin pool schedule that was officiated and scored by Team USA Men's Handball members. The Results: Ogletree Team A finished with (1st) Gold. Pick Orange with (2nd) Silver and Pick Yellow finished with (3rd) Bronze. All teams from Pick, Ogletree and Yarbrough played with great effort and sportsmanship. Coaches Reginald Smith, Chuck Cooper and Quenton Mosley thank their sponsors Rehabworks, EAMC, Tigertown Embroidery and the AuburnOpelika Tourism Bureau.

8th Grader Receives Student Athlete Academic Award

Rising 8th grader, Carter Porter, received the "Student Athlete Academic Award" at Youth Basketball of America (YBOA) Nationals in Orlando recently.

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205.638.4800 1940 Elmer J. Bissell Road, Birmingham, AL 35243 Outpatient surgery services, Pediatric Imaging Center, laboratory services, specialty care clinics and After Hours care

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Julie Sikes Speir Joins the Springwood Faculty

Springwood School is pleased to announce one of the newest additions to their faculty, Mrs. Julie Sikes Speir. In addition to her High School teaching responsibilities, she will also coach the Springwood Scholars Bowl Team. Mrs. Speir has a very accomplished and diverse academic background that will be a great benefit to the Springwood family. Mrs. Speir said, “I am very excited about being part of the excellent academic environment of Springwood School.” Since childhood, she has been an avid reader and lover to all things academic. She feels fortunate to have had many influential and passionate teachers growing up and now she hopes that she is the same for the students that she works with. Julie Speir has a B.A. in Liberal and Fine Arts and a Master of Arts in Education from LaGrange College. She also has a Master of Arts in Information Science from the University of Alabama. Mrs. Speir holds an Alabama and Georgia Teaching Certificate. During her professional career, she has worked at Southern Union State Community College, several high schools, and for the Circle of Care. Mrs. Speir has experience teaching and working with students of all ages, abilities, and socio-economic backgrounds. She worked with Diversity in the Art Classroom in Auckland, New Zealand, where she taught students from the Philippines, Australia, New Zealand, and the native Maori tribe. When she is outside of the classroom, Mrs. Speir is busy teaching piano instruction in her own fine arts studio, and spending time with her family, including her two sons. She enjoys photography, travel, and many other “artsy” activities. Some of her photographs can be found in the permanent collection of the Lamar Dodd Art Museum at LaGrange College. When asked about teaching, Mrs. Speir stated, “There is no more rewarding occupation than to help students to dream big, to perceive the world in new ways, and to achieve their goals.” Rick Johnson, Springwood Headmaster said, “We are excited to welcome Mrs. Speir to the Springwood family and to see our students benefit from all that she has to offer.” 19

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AHS Student Wins Video Production Contest Auburn High's Abby Thomas won the East Central College/ School Journalism's "First Amendment Matters" video production contest! This was a national public service announcement contest in which student contestants were asked to portray a "clear understanding of the First Amendment." The judges looked for "creativity at conveying that message.â&#x20AC;? As winner, Abby received a $100 prize along with a bag of goodies!

Autauga County Schools

Auburn City Council Recognizes AHS Baseball Team

The Auburn City Council recognized the 2017 Auburn High School Baseball team, led by Head Coach Matt Cimo, for their amazing season and appearance in the AHSAA Class 7A State Championship series for the second year in a row at Riverwalk Stadium, Montgomery. SEASON RECORD: - Overall 28-12 - Region 3-1 - National Rank 75 -State (AL) Rank 6.

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OHS Varsity and JV Cheerleaders and Mascots Attend Cheer Camp at Auburn University

OHS Varsity and JV cheerleaders attended UCA cheer camp at Auburn University. Each squad earned all superior ribbons and a spirit stick each night. Varsity won second place in large varsity cheer and JV took home first place in cheer, sideline, and xtreme routine. They also received the junior varsity overall champions awards. Mascots took home most improved (JV) and camp champ (varsity), both winning All-American. Varsity cheerleaders winning AllAmerican were Tori Baker, Katie Epperson, Martlynn Grouby, and Alex Howard. AllAmerican JV cheerleaders were Mackenzie Ford, Carmen Nunn, and Carsen Woodall. Tori Baker and Cori Baldwin received pin it forward pins from the UCA staff (given to participants who stand out in leadership and character). Four seniors on the varsity squad were also invited to try out for UCA staff - Tori Baker, Martlynn Grouby, Alex Howard, and Cori Baldwin (mascot). GO DAWGS! Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

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Respect Opelika High School Latin Honor Society

The National Latin Honor Society members of Opelika High School were inducted at the 33rd Initiation banquet with speaker Dozier Smith T, Opelika City Councilman. Pictured are (l-r): Sara Hollis Smith T, Wilson Hudson, Mr. Smith T, Lia Hansen and Kailey Greene. Family members and friends helped celebrate this occasion along with other National Latin Honor Society and Latin Club members, as well as the National French Honor Society and French Club and Club Sponsor, Lauren Whaley. Latin Honor Society Officers are: President Sarah Brewer, Vice-president John David Worth, Secretary Carter Milner and Treasurer Jack Schwantes-Barretto. Sponsor of both Latin and French Honor Societies is Mrs. Janet Smith.

Visitors to Trinity Christian School are impressed by the culture of mutual respect that permeates our school both in and out of the classroom.

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Opelika High School French Honor Society

Recent initiates of the National French Honor Society of Opelika High School were honored at the 33rd annual French-Latin Banquet which was held at Western Sizzlin'. Opelika City Councilman Dozier Smith T was the featured speaker. The new members attending are pictured left to right: Lily Ledbetter, Keirsten Gamble, Jacqueline Moran-Santos, Mr. Smith T, Jacob Walker and Cheyenne Hoffpauir. New French Honor Society members, but unable to attend, are: Debrea Burney and Brianna Young. Also participating in the joint National FrenchLatin Honor Societies initiation event were Principal Dr. Farrell Seymore and Dr. Hamp Morris, French Professor Emeritus of the Foreign Language Department, Auburn University, who gave an explanation of several types of advanced placement and travel opportunities on the university level. French Honor Society Officers are: President Frank Wright, Vice-President Connor Pruitt, Secretary Allen Alcantara and Treasurer Tanner Bennett. The sponsor of both French and Latin Honor Societies is Mrs. Janet Smith. 21

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Congratulations

to Stacy Royster, OCS Technology Coordinator, on graduating as a member of the AL Chief Technology Officer cohort!

Autauga County Schools AHS JROTC

Auburn High School's JROTC Cadets competed at the Junior Leadership Challenge at Ft. Benning!

Congratulations

to Kyle Pinckard, OCS Secondary Education Coordinator and Career Technology Coordinator, on receiving the 2017 Alabama ASCD Emerging Leader Award at the CLAS conference Mobile!

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Summer Camp News! This year's wrestling camp was a success! Thank you to Coach Wade Schalles for spending time with our student-athletes! Schalles is an American wrestler, who while representing Clarion University of Pennsylvania was an NCAA Division I champion in 1972 and 1973--winning the outstanding wrestler award in 1972! He created unique wrestling maneuvers and was known for pinning a large percentage of his opponents. Schalles is also an inductee of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame. He is currently director of the Eagle Hawk Academy, a wrestling instruction school.

BRICK X BRICK: Future Tiger Football Camp -- before making plays under the Friday night lights, this is where it all begins. Student athletes 1st through 6th grade got the opportunity to work with Head Coach Adam Winegarden, his staff and varsity players learning fundamentals and basic skills/ techniques of the game.

OHS Bulldog Summer Baseball Camp

The Auburn Lady Tiger Basketball Camp was a success! Young ladies in grades 2-11 worked with Head Coach Terryland Dawson and her varsity players learning the fundamentals of shooting, passing, rebounding, offense and defense.

Auburn City Schools offers numerous summer camps.

Great week for the OHS Boys Basketball Camp!

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Tigers in the Windy City

Julia Lawrence (left in photo) and Cambria O'Grady (right) represented Auburn City Schools and Auburn High School in Chicago as part of Alabama Lions All Star Marching Band! The band marched in a parade celebrating the 100th birthday of Lions Club International. Many thanks to the Auburn Lions Club for sponsoring their participation!

JROTC Leaders Participate in Lionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Club Forum at Troy University

JROTC Tiger Battalion's Commander, Charlie Friedenreich, and Executive Officer, Cammy Smith, were recently honored for their participation in the Lion's Club Leadership Forum at Troy University! They were able to share ideas on leadership and team building with other student body leaders throughout the state.

Auburn City Schools 5th Graders Attend D.A.R.E. Camp

The Auburn Police and Fire Departments hosted D.A.R.E. camp for all 5th graders in the school system. These students have studied the program with our SROs this year and this is the culmination of all their hard work. Our first responders and students have a blast with all kinds of physical activities, cookouts at lunch and guest speakers each day coming in to discuss strong character traits! A special thank you to all the volunteers including our local retired Marines, who serve lunch each day!

Summer Show-Offs

The first session of Summer Show-Offs took place at Auburn Junior High School! This is a great introduction to the award-winning show choir program at Auburn City Schools. Students of all ages are learning how to sing and dance as a group.

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Auburn Anglers Compete in State Championship

All six Auburn Angler teams qualified to fish in the AHSBN Eufaula State Championship on June 9-10 and three teams finished in the top 25 of 240 boats! Parks/Lindsay #11 w 24.67 lbs; Morgan/Smith #18 w 21.15 lbs; Keel/Garrett #25 w 19.79 lbs. Also, the six-man team of Parks/ Lindsay/Keel/Garrett/Weiss/Binnix placed 2nd out of 30 teams with a total weight of 55.64 pounds. Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Signs of Suicide in Your Teen Watch any episode of a classic family TV shows from the 50s—Leave it to Beaver, Father Knows Best, or The Donna Reed show—and there’s one thing you will not hear teens Wally, Bud, Jeff or Mary talking about: suicide. Fast forward to 2016 and today, most teens not only talk about suicide—they can tell you exactly how they would do it. Thanks to Google, they have plenty of tutorials on how to take their own life. There are even websites that put forth a suicide or “self-euthanasia” worldview. One site even encourages people to “do their part”—complete with instructions—in reducing the world’s population. It gets even more disturbing. Teens that are considering suicide are often encouraged by their peers to go beyond the contemplation stage and “just do it.” And “doing it” they are. Suicide is now the third leading cause of death in the 15- to 24-year-old age range. It’s more common among boys. Male adolescents commit suicide five times more than females, though females are three times more likely to attempt suicide.

Gone Too Soon

For Gerard Long, the president of the ministry, Alpha USA, this statistic became highly personal when his 17-year-old son, Alex, hanged himself on a beach after being given one dose of a recreational drug. Like most parents of teen suicide victims, Gerard and his wife, Jeannie, didn’t see it coming. Up until a week before his death, Alex had been a good student, an outstanding athlete and a seemingly happy teen. But it’s what his parents didn’t know that would come back to haunt them. He shared his story when I interviewed him sometime after. The day that Alex killed himself, he was home all day with his mom, who stayed close by his side—monitoring him. The drug his “friend” had given him had a particular insidious effect on their sensitive son. His rational thinking was skewed and his emotional equilibrium was clearly off kilter. After Alex had confessed to his parents about his foolish mistake, they kept a watchful eye on him. On Gerard’s part, he had prayed with his son for an hour that morning before he left for work. That night, when his father returned home, Alex greeted his father warmly,

even quoting Psalm 103:1-5—a psalm he had memorized. So to his parents, Alex seemed to be on the mend. Still, when Alex asked his mom if he could “go for a ride in the car” she said, “No.” Given his still questionable mental state, Jeannie didn’t think it was safe. But Alex snuck out anyway. When the police finally found his body hours later, Jeannie became hysterical with grief. It took her two years to stop blaming God, and her husband, for her son’s death. When I asked Gerard during that first interview, what he would have done differently to try and prevent what happened, he said: “I would learn as much as could about signs of suicide and I would be more direct and decisive when I saw some of those troubling signs.” In Gerard Long’s case, his son didn’t suffer from depression—he just happened to have had a very bad reaction to a street drug. One dose was enough to send him into a depressed, suicidal state. For most teens, it takes more than one dose of a drug to send them into a downward spiral. It’s usually a cumulative effect. Studies show that at least 90 percent of teens who kill themselves have some type of chronic mental health problem, such as depression, anxiety, drug or alcohol abuse, or a behavior problem. So, what are the signs of possible suicide in your teen and what can be done about it? It’s a good question—and an important one. Not taking the time to study these signs could be deadly. As Gerard says, “Don’t ever think it can’t happen to you… it can happen to anyone.”

Danger Signs In Your Teen

• Withdrawal from social activities, as well as friends and family. • Giving possessions away • Increased sadness and hopelessness • Obsession about death, including talking about it. For example, after someone dies, a teen might talk about who he would like to come to his memorial service if he ever passed away. He may also watch films or listen to music that is centered on death. 25

• Engagement in risk-taking behaviors— what might be called a “death wish” • Bullied at school • Changes in eating or sleeping behavior—especially eating less and sleeping more • A lack of concentration—unable to focus If your child is manifesting several of these signs, or he begins to actually threaten suicide, then it’s time to ramp up the prevention strategy. He will need to be constantly monitored. Hide all prescription drugs and eliminate any access to guns. Take all suicide threats seriously—it’s your teen’s cry for help and you need to heed it. At Heartlight, if a teen says, “I want to die” then we take him to the hospital for observation. If your teen is chronically depressed and it’s serious enough where it’s causing suicidal behaviors to manifest, then consider a shortterm solution, like anti-depressants. Sometimes this regime is necessary if there’s a chemical imbalance. Still, it’s a decision that you need to make wisely and prayerfully as some antidepressants can be worse than the condition they’re supposed to cure. Do the research. Even “safe” drugs can be toxic. It all depends on the particular chemical make up of your teen. Whatever extra measures you need to take to keep your teen safe, be encouraged— teen depression is not a life sentence. According to a 2014 study by the Murdoch Children’s Research Institute, around half of teens who experience brief episodes of depression or anxiety do not go on to have a mental illness in adulthood. You can increase those odds with good parenting, including lots of love, prayer and vigilance. As Gerard Long said, “Be direct and decisive.” This means knowing what your teen is doing at all times. Don’t underestimate the power of peer pressure (“bad company corrupts good character”) or other external influential factors like the Internet and TV. Do these things, and chances are good that you’ll be helping your teen over a temporary “hump” in his volatile teenage life—after which you can both breathe a huge collective sigh of relief. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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A Page in a Book Books to Celebrate the One-of-a-Kind Kid As parents we celebrate the things that make our child distinctive. His eccentric passion for polka dot clothing, her encyclopedic knowledge of bats, their precocious habit of singing (loudly) in public, the fact that they speak two languages – these characteristics can make our child a delightful stand-out against a standard backdrop. While these aspects of our child endear them to us, this same distinctiveness can sometimes set them apart from their environment. The following titles celebrate the ways that positive interaction helps ‘outside of the norm’ join its special perspective to the larger social whole.

My Cousin Momo

by Zacariah Ohora (Penguin / Dial Books for Young Readers) When gray squirrel siblings look forward to hosting cousin Momo for a visit, they are filled with anticipation. As a flying squirrel, Momo’s special ability promises to be the highlight of their first meeting with their cousin. But their fabled cousin doesn’t perform as expected. Momo doesn’t hide-and-seek very well, he plays acorn-pong all wrong and he won’t show off his advertised specialty of flight. The brother and sister’s obvious disappointment leads cousin Momo to contemplate leaving, but a last-minute appreciation of his special talents may just help their new friendship take flight. Ohora’s bright illustration gives all the right nods to this evolution of appreciation for uncommon style.

The Girl Who Heard Colors

by Marie Harris, Illustrated by Vanessa Brantley-Newton (Penguin / Nancy Paulsen Books) Little Gillian experiences the world much like her counterparts, except when it comes to sounds. Gifted with synesthesia, Gillian perceives sound as color. Her bike’s bell rings silver, the rain whispers in light purple and her teacher’s voice is green as a frog. But when a lunch box falls to the floor and Gillian exclaims “Yellow!”, her distinctive ability is revealed to classmates who laugh (in inky black) at what they don’t understand. It’s the visit of a musician to the classroom who recognizes her special perception and helps Gil and her classmates cultivate a new appreciation for differences that make their world a brighter and more colorful place.

by Michael Foreman (Candlewick Press) Relocated from the tropics to a cold and gray city, Adam misses all the things that were unique to his old home. As he tentatively ventures into snow for the first time, curious kids soon begin to help him craft a snow white menagerie of creatures from his homeland. Still lamenting the dreary landscape, Adam’s first day of school reveals a small garden, a bright spot of color. When the teacher begins to send seeds from the garden home with him, Adam and his mother begin sinking new roots into the city. With a green thumb and memories of home, Adam is joined by his friends as they begin transforming their gray surroundings into a colorful bridge between friends, neighbors and two different worlds. Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Dip In, Pay It Off! Q. My wife just had our first child. Now, we now have about $3,000 in medical bills not covered by insurance. We’ve got $8,000 in our emergency fund, and I make between $25,000 and $30,000 a year. Should we try setting up a payment plan with the hospital, or is dipping into our savings a better idea? A. I’d write a check today and knock out that hospital bill. This falls under the heading of “emergency” in my mind, so pay the bill and jump back into rebuilding your emergency fund. You’ve done a really good job of saving on your income, but let’s see what we can do about making better money in the future. Extra practical training in your field, or more education in the classroom, could increase your income quickly. Your emergency fund needs to be a little bigger as well, and it’ll be a lot easier to make this happen if you’re making more money. I’m sure you’re a hard-working guy, but it’s going to be tough for even a small family

to make it on what you’re bringing home now. The unexpected can become a common occurrence when there’s a little one in the picture.

Can They Really Garnish My Wages? Q. I got a call from a debt collector regarding $2,000 I owe in medical bills. I’m trying to get my finances in order and pay this off, but I’m afraid they’ll follow through on their threat to garnish my wages. Can you give me some advice? A. First, I want you to take a deep breath and calm down. Debt collectors like to play on your emotions because they think you’ll give in and do something you can’t really afford to do. Most of them don’t care about you or your

situation as long as they get some money. They won’t garnish your wages because they can’t. They would have to go through the formal, legal procedure of first suing you and then winning the case. They broke federal law by saying they would garnish your wages but hadn’t sued you. If I’m in your shoes, I’d be filing a complaint against these bozos with the Federal Trade Commission. Don’t react with fear and panic in the face of debt collector threats. Talk to them and explain your situation. See if you can work out a compromise. If they get nasty or break federal law again, let them know you’ll be filing another complaint with the FTC. In the meantime, do everything you can to scrape up as much cash as possible. Have a big garage sale and sell everything in your attic or basement you don’t need. Then, when you get this mess cleaned up, pay off the rest of your debts — if you have any — and start living on a written monthly budget!

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“Just so you know, mom I’ve got a test on Friday I’m gonna fail.” My sixth-grader is barely through the front door when this escapes his lips. Because he is an excellent student, my head is spinning. Smiling, I remark “What do you mean? You’ve got three more days to study!” But he is already grinding his teeth, scowling as he announces “I can’t do it.” Still calm, I attempt to appeal to his reason with no luck. Within seconds, I am shouting “Fine. YOU’RE GROUNDED FOR A MONTH!” Sound familiar?

Organizing the Disorganized Child (2009) by Martin Kutscher and Marcella Moran provides a helpful guide for explaining in plain English how disorganized habits interfere with school success and create chaos within the home. The following issues addressed in the book were ones in particular I believe are relevant to helping your child develop healthier habits and achieve more.

Understand Why They Procrastinate According to Kutscher and Mora, kids often adopt an “I’ll get to it later” habit and put off school projects or studying for several reasons. Sometimes they simply have a poor concept of time. Other kids have poor memory for ways procrastinating has failed them in the past. Still others are too easily sidetracked and unable to resist temptation to do something more appealing. The authors remind parents that most often these issues are “the fault of the undeveloped brain, not the child” and urge parents not to yell or punish. Instead, stay positive, offer support, and help them break larger tasks down into chunks. They offer these tips to get organized: 1. Write down assignments in a planner.

Disorganization and Success

2. Ask the teacher or a buddy to double-check their planner to be sure it is correct.

What my son was probably communicating after school that day was “I feel distressed, Mom. I have no idea how to get organized for this test.” Unfortunately, like so many parents, I let myself grow overly emotional and failed to truly listen to his fear and concern. Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

3. Place all materials touched that day into a take-home section of a folder. 28

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4. Mark a calendar with completion dates for step in preparing for a project. 5. Put completed work in a Take to School section of a folder. 6. Weekly purge the backpack and folders of papers no longer needed.

Teach Them to Question Everything The authors of this guide believe in addition to good note-taking and study skills, the key to your child’s education is questioning everything. Teaching your child to ask the following questions will enhance your child’s learning: 1. WHAT DID THE TEACHER JUST SAY? 2. WHAT DID I JUST READ? 3. WHY IS THAT SO? IS IT TRUE? 4. WHERE HAVE I SEEN INFORMATION LIKE THIS BEFORE? 5. HOW IS THIS DIFFERENT FROM MATERIAL I’VE PREVIOUSLY LEARNED? 6. HOW CAN I SUMMARIZE THIS IN AS FEW WORDS AS POSSIBLE? 7. HOW CAN I VISUALIZE THIS IN PICTURES OR FLOWCHARTS? 8. WHAT ELSE DO I NEED TO LEARN ABOUT THIS? 9. WHAT QUESTIONS ABOUT THIS ARE LIKELY TO BE ON THE TEST? 10. WHY IS THIS IMPORTANT TO ME AND THE REST OF THE WORLD? 11. SO WHAT?

Test Taking Smarts All students can use a refresher for how to best manage time on a test, and the following strategies are recommended by Kutscher and Moran: 1. Turn over the sheet and jot down keywords, dates, formulas, and phrases you memorized. 2. Look over the entire test quickly to anticipate what’s coming up.

3. Read directions carefully. Underline keywords of the directions. 4. Answer easy questions first. 5. Place a question mark next to answers you guess on. 6. Sometimes the answer to one question is contained somewhere on the test. 7. Sometimes you may be able to get help or clues from the teacher i.e. “Can you rephrase the question.” 29

8. If you have leftover time, check your answers and scan for careless mistakes. Only change an answer when you’re certain the new response is correct. 9. If unsure, guess. In terms of helping your child become a more organized student, the authors remind parents, “We can’t completely fix everything overnight. We can, though, expect continued progress over a mountainous terrain toward an ultimately successful future.” AOP Michele Ranard has a husband, two children, and a master’s in counseling.

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What to Consider Before Using GPS to Track Your Kid Sooner or later, most parents lose a kid—usually for only a few minutes. A toddler figures out how to open an unlatched door. A kindergartener heads off to investigate something in another grocery aisle. A school age child gets confused about the pick up location. Even if it’s brief, the experience is heart-stopping. And it’s given rise to a whole new industry--GPS tracking for kids. Some parents turn to GPS because the world seems scarier than it was when they were kids. Others want an electronic yenta who can keep an eye on children (and their caregivers) when parents can’t be there. Still others want a better way to supervise and enforce family rules about safety. For those who really can’t take care of themselves—very young children, kids with disabilities, even pets or elders with dementia—tracking devices may produce peace of mind. And, for children, that can be a problem. Experts point out that tracking devices can encourage both passivity and a false sense of security in children as well as parents. As parents find themselves counting on surveillance, they may be less intentional about helping kids anticipate and avoid risks. Instead of learning what they need to know to navigate confidently and safely in a risky world, kids depend on the panic button that summons Mom. That said, there are situations in which a tracker can be very useful—think amusement parks or kids who walk to and from school. Before purchasing the technology, consider these questions: What does it do? Some trackers, like Trax, do nothing but show location. They can be attached to children, elders, pets or even a laptop that tends to wander off. Many units resemble watches or function like flip phones. Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

And some, like the Amby Gear Smartwatch, include games or virtual pets. For little kids, the extra bells and whistles may be distracting. For an older child, they may make the device more appealing. What’s the technology? Tracking units that use GPS depend on satellites and some provide coverage pretty much anywhere on the planet. Other devices use the cellphone network so they won’t work if the child wanders out of range. Still, other devices like My Buddy Tag use Bluetooth technology. Their reach is limited, though that may be just fine if you’re trying to keep tabs on a child in the backyard or your local park. The most accurate devices like the Wherecom Kidfit use a combination of technologies. What does it monitor? At the very least a tracking device should pinpoint a child’s location. Some send a signal at intervals; others allow continuous tracking though that may drain the battery. Many units make it possible to set up safety zones or geofences and send an alert if the child goes beyond those boundaries. Is it complicated? For very young children, simplicity is a virtue. Tinitell, for example, is a band with a button. If a child pushes the button, the device calls preprogrammed numbers until someone picks up. Check the app as well as the device. If it has lots of features, be sure customer support is readily available. Is the device secure? If you have to sign in to get information about your child’s location, it’s possible for other people to sign in too. What precautions has the company 30

taken to prevent hacking? What kind of alerts will you get if there is a security breach? What kind of communication is possible? Some units have a big panic button a child can press. Some allow one way communication. More expensive devices like the GizmoGadget, available from Verizon, provide two way communication similar to a cellphone. Is it kid-proof? Some kids can handle delicate equipment and some can’t. Choose a GPS unit accordingly. Pocket Finder, for example, is built out of plastic that’s almost indestructible. The Korex Babysitter claims to be waterproof. Be sure the clasp on any band is secure and easy to use. How much does it cost? Tracking devices range from $40 to $200. Many devices also require a monthly service contract that can cost from $4 to $40 per month. Before signing with a new service, check your existing cellphone provider to see if they offer a better deal on a device. Are there special features for special kids? AngelSense is designed to provide extra layers of protection for children with special needs that make them more vulnerable. Doki lets parents schedule reminders or deactivate the distracting features of the watch when the kid is supposed to be concentrating on other things. Of course, by the time a child is old enough for a cellphone, the tracking question is moot. Cellphones are trackers with a variety of apps that will monitor where children are and what they are doing. For older kids, parents need to think carefully and talk frequently about the intersection between privacy and trust. Some kids may benefit from additional supervision, but parents must keep their eyes on the ultimate goal—raising children who are responsible and confident enough to make their own decisions about staying safe in a complicated world. That, of course, can be done without a tracking unit. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2017, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved.

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School, sports, after-school activities, birthday parties, and social commitments--all of these things compete for your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy and attention on a daily basis. And now that kids are hopping on social media at increasingly younger ages, the pressure to participate can become fierce early on. All those images of friends playing sports, hanging out at a pool party, or posing together in a gleeful gaggle may cause your child to feel like his schedule doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t quite measure up. Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

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But no matter whose idea it is to keep kids busy and social 24-7, it’s ultimately every parent’s job to make sure kids don’t fall into the over-scheduling trap. Kids need their parents to make space for them to just be, so they don’t feel compelled to constantly do-do-do. If parents don’t take an active role in supporting each child’s individuality, then their uniqueness is going to take a back seat to their busy schedule, and this can create feelings of isolation or even depression in kids and lay the groundwork for workaholism later in life. Kids discover their sense of self in the quiet moments of life, when they can relax, be themselves, and let their instincts lead. If they can’t find quiet, reflective moments in their overly busy lives, identifying individual desires may be delayed or denied. So be smarter than your sources, parents. Don’t let your child’s individuality get overlooked because you are keeping him steadily overbooked.

Prioritize The Calendar. Before you add another activity into the busy mix, pause and consider what’s already on the schedule for the entire family. It’s only natural to want to do it all, but saying yes to everything will only exhaust everyone and cut into valuable family time. If you can manage another addition, consider it. If you can’t; then it’s time to prioritize.

Focus On Enrichment. Does the activity bring more joy and energy into your child’s life or does it create conflicts and anxiety? Joining the competitive soccer league may sound fun, but if your child does not enjoy the level of intensity, then maybe a local intramural league is a better fit. Don’t assume the most expensive or competitive choice is always the best fit for your child’s needs. Sometimes less really is more.

Shrug Off Kiddie Competition. Pressure to conform is ever-present in childhood. The kids next door participate in more activities than your kids? So what. Left to their own devices, kids will often compare their experiences with other kids and find theirs lacking. How many times have you heard that their friends’ parents let them do this or that? Strong, secure parents can hear this without giving in to pressure. They do? That’s nice. This is what we do and these are the reasons why. 33

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the schedule or do stress and pressure run the show? Remember that your family deserves to feel calm and contented. Take charge of how you spend your time and your children will soon follow suit.

Find Mentors Of Character. When you choose the activity, you also choose the role model who is in charge. Make sure coaches, organizers, and leaders are the types of people you want influencing your kids. Mentors who focus on character model healthy choices, and allow kids to act like kids while helping them build skills in a measured manner. If you are concerned that a coach or activity leader is over-zealous or too high-pressure, trust your instincts and investigate further.

Allow For Downtime. Be sure your family has at least a day or two each week when no outside activities are on the schedule. Whether you participate in a religious Sabbath or not, everyone in the family can benefit from observing a weekly day of rest. And spending a whole day enjoying family time each week will bring your family closer and remind everyone that family comes first.

Encourage Personal Development. Kids need hobbies, just like adults. Private, personal activities that don’t have to be shared with others can be soothing, pleasurable, and teach kids to become more self-directed. So if your child loves to bake, knit, build models, or peer at the stars, support those interests. When you buy her special ingredients, pretty yarn, three types of glue, or the slightly better telescope, you are saying, “I see you and I support the person you are becoming.”

Relax, Kick Back & Hang Out Take back your family’s quality of life by trying some of these simple strategies. Every child needs and wants this kind of recognition and acknowledgement from parents.

Be Honest With Yourself. Do you really care more about what others think of your kids than you do about your family’s overall happiness? Do you worry you are living in such a dog-eat-dog world that your child has to be hyper-busy to compete? Are you so concerned about your child’s social standing that you put her in activities she doesn’t care about to expose her to the right kids? If any of these are true, take a step back. When it comes to scheduling your child, let her needs lead, not yours. Watch For Signals Of Over-doing. Is your child happily content or often tired and irritable? Do you have a mutual admiration society at home or are family members always snipping at each other? Is everyone sleeping well at night or is exhaustion the norm? Are you in charge of

• Have a family project you all work on year round in a leisurely manner like a vegetable garden or even a puzzle. • Go on local outings with the mission of simply hanging out together. • Take an occasional family walk together in a go-to location when something challenging needs to be discussed and sorted out. • Watch a family double feature with popcorn, drinks, and lively discussions. • Take the family to the library and spend an hour gathering books, magazines, music, and DVDs. • Make Sunday brunch a ritual activity either at home or at an inexpensive local restaurant. • Have a casual but consistent family meeting once a week to get a better sense of how kids are feeling about the ways they spend their time. AOP Christina Katz is an author, journalist, and coach, who often writes on the topic of life balance and personal self-expression. She knows the power of saying no and is not afraid to use it.

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Playing with Food

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Playing with food is part of every child’s early years as they learn to feed themselves. And as their food interests expand beyond the high chair and into the larger kitchen, kids often develop specific curiosity about the objects and items that contribute to their menu. They begin to look at ‘grown-up’ food, kitchen set-ups and cooking tools with a new, and hungry, eye. While they’re not ready to don the official chef’s hat yet, encouraging their interest with safe and engaging toys and resources is ideal for cultivating their nutritional education and expanding tastes. The following items are recommended for kids who still want to play with their food.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Morphy Richards Kitchen Set

Cutting Food Play Set (Melissa & Doug)

Putting a knife in the hands of a toddler is encouraged with Melissa & Doug’s Cutting Food Play Set. Complete with sectioned wooden fruit, vegetables and bread loaf, kids use this set’s sturdy, blunt-edged wooden knife to cut the food into its parts. The “crunch’ of the cut comes from the strong Velcro attachments between the food sections. The actual weight and feel of the wooden food mimics real produce much more closely than plastic counterparts. As children separate and reassemble the food, they are also benefiting from an early exposure to fractions. Crafted with non-toxic materials, the occasional nibbling and gnawing is not a worry. Giving young chefs their first opportunity to carve out their place in the kitchen, the Cutting Food Play Set offers a surprisingly real food prep experience for kids.

(Casdon Little)

While the coffee maker and toaster are often off-limits for little ones, the Morphy Richards Kitchen Set presents a safe and entertaining option for the younger cook. The coffee kettle is refillable with water (or other beverage) and features a level gauge indicator for added realism. The ‘toast’ pops up from the toaster with an energetic spring to launch every morning meal. Featuring colorful cutlery, dishes and pretend food, breakfast or brunch is easily laid out by the youngest kitchen helper. Perfect for pretend play this miniature collection is sized for little hands, but easily serves alongside adult crockery for a family-sized breakfast spread.

Honeysuckle Treat Street Food Truck

Sew Mini Treats (Klutz)

Making your own food takes on a whole new meaning with Sew Mini Treats, an adorable craft kit from Klutz. Following super-easy instructions in the 48-page guide, young seamsters are equipped with everything they need to assemble plush food with fun faces. With patterns, felt, filling, floss, and delightful design elements for cheeks and eyes all included, kids can turn out up to 18 different food-themed plushies in a short amount of time. Getting the hang of following patterns and simple stitching is also ideal for turning hand work into real confidence-building opportunities. Perfect for party-activities, decorating, gift-giving, or just carrying around as an “I made this!” badge, Sew Mini Treats are a delicious dip into food-themed crafting.

(Woodzeez)

With the booming interest is food truck cuisine nationwide, it’s the perfect time for little foodies to explore the business with their own pintsized version of the same. The Honeysuckle Treat Street Food Truck is a highly detailed toy replica of a restaurant on wheels. With a grill, cupboards, and an oven (with a working door) there’s plenty of food activity on the menu. The trapdoor for extra storage adds to the space economy that echoes real food trucks. There are eighty-nine pieces, so while kids are guaranteed to stay busy this set is best for kids who are past the mouthing age. Woodzeez brand figures are sold separately, but this food truck can easily host a variety of similarly sized characters. Battery-free and ready to feed friends, the Honeysuckle Treat Street Food Truck will get your child’s restaurant business rolling.

Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

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Art Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 27 and 37

222 East Drake Avenue Auburn, 36830 Kid smART-A Multicultural Program: Held after school at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. This is an immersion program that combines engaging classes on art and Chinese culture for 1st- 5th grade students. Young artists will be introduced to basic drawing and painting with fun subjects while developing visual learning skills, learning about artists from around the world, and expressing themselves by creating their own unique masterpieces, including watercolor, sketching, acrylic painting, Chinese painting, collage, craft making, and clay making. Also, in order to prepare every child for the demands of global citizenship, understanding two or more languages and cultures is essential. Language is best learned through social interaction and meaningful activities. Students will acquire Chinese language and literacy skills through engaging and artistic activities such as Chinese painting, Chinese calligraphy, songs, poems, origami, and stories. Private & Semi-Private Art Lessons: watercolors, drawing, mixed media, and much more. Kids Can Draw Cartoons: Learn how to draw fantastic cartoons using basic geometric shapes. Then, we will up the ante by learning about special effects, emotions, and costumes. By the end of the quarter, each student will have created their own unique character and comic strip. Kids Can Paint Surrealism: strange and sometimes silly art that explores dreams and the world of imagination! In this class students will explore the artwork of six famous artists. They then will use these artists and their works as a springboard to explore art and their own creativity. Anime Drawing Manga People: A Japanese style of comics. In this class, we will learn how to draw rocking boys and cool girls. Each student will be encouraged to develop his or her own anime/ manga characters and unique style of drawing. IAMBK Creative Art: This class is designed to instill a sense of love, respect, and appreciation for the gift of creativity as related to Fine Arts and Crafting skills. Classes are designed to provide opportunities for students to use their imaginations to create works of art via drawing, coloring, painting, molding/sculpturing, photography, jewelry-making, Claymation, and digital software. Readin’ and ’Ritin’ in Clay: If you are an avid bookworm or simply a word geek, this clay class will fit you to a “T” as you learn or further develop your knowledge of clay handbuilding techniques. We will create Giant Pop Art Pencils, Beginning and End Bookends, Drink Your Alphabet Mugs, and Stuck-ina-Book Bookmarkers. Beneath the Waves: Join us as we dive beneath the waves to explore sea creatures with clay! Your child will learn or further develop their knowledge of clay handbuilding techniques to make Taco Fish, Many-Legs Crab, and Sea Critters Sea Platter. Act I: Acting classes for beginner and advanced students inspires imagination and creativity, teaches teamwork, and builds confidence. Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

Act II: Come and learn new skills or build on previous theater experience. Students will be exposed to theater fundamentals through scene works, improv activities and more. Act III: Come and learn the thrills of the stage! Through this class, you will gain new acting skills involving expression, spontaneity, team work, stage presence, and so much more. Whether you have been on the stage many times or never before, don’t miss out on this creative experience! Elect Performing Arts Drama Class: To introduce youth to acting, spoken word, and other theatrical techniques. Students will learn to portray characters and how to write original monologues and scenes from their own life stories. AACT Jr. Fall Show Auditions: “The Jungle Book”: Open auditions for ages 5 – 12, Aug 1415. This version is not a musical, but there will be instruments and dancing incorporated into the story. Please come prepared to show us your best jungle animal moves and sounds. (Preschool-12th grades) 334-501-2944

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

The Art Studio ad on page 5

118 North Ross Street Suite 2 Auburn, 36830 We will be offering after school classes: All About Art- Tuesdays 4:00pm, Drawing and PaintingWednesdays 3:30pm, Studio Time-Teens Wednesday 4:30pm (K-5th grades and 6th grade and up) 334-332-5275

www.theartstudioauburn.com

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts

901 South College Street Auburn, 36830 Learn, create and explore at JCSM during the fall Saturday Art Club. Three stations are designed for younger students (K-2nd grade), middle students (3rd-6th grade) and older students (7th-12th grade). Parents are encouraged to work with their children, or learn more about the role of art in your child’s life at the Parent’s Table. (K-12 grades) 334-844-1484

www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1102 Denson Drive Opelika, 36801 Exploring Creativity: Art students will experiment with colors, lines, shapes and textures. They will then create works of art by exploring color mixing, painting, drawing and collage activities while using different art tools and supplies. There will be an ending art show for the students to show off their work. Advanced Pottery: Meets for two weeks; four hours per meeting. Class includes advanced instructional materials. Kids Pottery: Choice of a class on Monday, Tuesday or Thursday. 334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Sew-thern Belles Sewing Studio

923-J Stage Road Auburn, 36830 We offer a structured, fun environment where children learn while having a blast! Students learn all aspects of sewing including how to thread a sewing machine, how to read a pattern, and how to make clothing and accessories. The classes culminate in a fashion show. (3rd grade and up) 229-869-6775

Before and After School Care Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center ad on page 4

128 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 Open 7:00am - 5:30pm. Transportation from schools available. Children engage in many developmentally appropriate, hands-on activities that promote learning in language, fine & large motor skills, the arts, math, science, and social-emotional skills. Nationally Accredited through NAC and Licensed through Alabama Department of Human Resources. (Full-time care for Infant - 6 yrs and an After-school program K - 5th grade.)

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334-821-8125. www.auburnfbc.org/wordpress_20150529/ministries

ad on page 16

334-745-6248

www.bonnieskidschildcare.com

Growing Room Child Development Center ad on page 10

644 North Dean Road Auburn, 36830 We believe Learning Can Take You Everywhere! We offer a language based curriculum focusing on math, science & self-help skills, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, extracurricular programs include JumpBunch, Dance, Big Green Bus, & Spanish. We also prove before and after school care to most Auburn City Schools. (6 weeks-12 years) 334-501-2044

www.growingroomusa.com

Auburn City Schools

332 East Samford Avenue Auburn, 36830 Extended day offers children the opportunity to have individualized tutoring, participation in creative activities, and interaction with peers. Tuition prices are on a sliding scale based on lunch status. Activities such as art, sports, computer, music and movement, and other clubs added throughout the year help children interact socially and physically with children of all backgrounds in their community. Tutoring allows individualized instruction tailored to student’s learning styles and levels of understanding therefore improving grades and self-esteem. For more information, please contact your child’s school. (K-5th grades ) 334-887-2100

www.auburnschools.org

Auburn Day Care Center

410 Boykin Street, Room 14 Auburn, 36830 Afterschool pickup and care. 334-821-4060.

Auburn United Methodist Church Discovery Club After-School Program 137 South Gay Street Auburn, 36830

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www.aumc.net

Miss Deanna’s Childcare

1901 Corporate Drive Opelika, 36801 After school transportation and care for Opelika City Schools (6 weeks-12 years) 334-745-7139

Child Care Network

Miss Deanna’s Childcare

334-749-9631

334-821-0066

702 Second Avenue Opelika, 36801 Before and after school pick up for most Opelika City Schools

1745 East University Drive Auburn, 36830 After school transportation and care for Auburn City Schools (6 weeks-12 years)

Creative Discovery Child Development Center

Dance/Baton Auburn Parks and Recreation

Health Plus Fitness Center

ad on page 37

1171 Gatewood Drive Auburn, 36830 Afterschool Rules! The place to be for homework, fitness, and fun. Pick up from Auburn Early Ed Center, Cary Woods, Yarbrough, Lee-Scott and Drake Middle School. (K-8th grade) 334-887-5666 www.healthplusfitness.com

334-821-1127

Milestones Learning Center

1811 East Glenn Ave Auburn, 36830 Children learn through direct, hands-on experiences with people, objects, events, and ideas. Kindermusik, ABC Music and Me, Premier Tumbling, The Big Green Bus, and more! Fall registration going on now! Afterschool care and transportation available. 334-887-4391

www.milestoneslc.com

ybatts@bgcleeco.org

Opelika, 36801 Before and after school care and pickup available.

334-887-5730 kidscreative7@gmail.com www.creativediscoverycdc. com

1221 Commerce Drive Auburn, 36830 After school program, drop off and pick up

334-745-2582

An after school Youth Development program that serves youth Greater Lee County. Afternoons begin with a healthy snack followed by Power Hour: Making Every Minute Count in which club members spend time reading, receiving homework assistance and tutoring. The evening is filled with fun programming in five core areas including character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills; the arts, and sports, fitness, and recreation. (6-18 years)

University Daycare Child Care Center

1675 Shug Jordan Parkway Auburn, 36830 “Where Discovery Leads to Learning!” After school pick up at Auburn City Schools, Lee Scott, and Indian Pines (6 weeks-12 years)

Learning Zone

1610 Toomer Street Opelika, 36801

Opelika City Schools Extended Day

Extended Day is a program sponsored by the Opelika City Schools to provide a safe, friendly environment for children who need after school care. CARES offers tutors, homework assistance, recreation, school clubs, special activities, field trips, and other areas of enrichment for children who attend elementary schools in Opelika. (PreK-8th grade) 334-745-9700

www.opelika-al.gov

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County

400-B Boykin Street Auburn, 36830 334-821-6020

pharrison@bgcleeco.org

425 Perry Street Auburn, 36830 Auburn Danceworks PreSchool Ballet: Students are encouraged to express themselves creatively while learning and practicing left/right orientation and simple movement skills that are the basis for ballet techniques taught in a formal ballet class (bending, stretching, jumping, turning, leaping, galloping, and skipping). Ballet class is an excellent place to practice social skills such as taking turns and respecting personal space. Auburn Danceworks Pre-Ballet: Building on our Pre-School syllabus, Pre-Ballet introduces students to formal ballet terminology and technique, encouraging the use of proper terms. Students will engage in traditional barre exercises and age appropriate movement while celebrating the uniqueness of each child. Dance With Me: (Mom and me) Everyone’s encouraged to express themselves creatively through movement, learning simple partner dances and practicing the basic movements used in dance (bending, stretching, jumping, turning, leaping, galloping, and skipping).

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www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Ballet Academy ad on page 22

1703 Westend Court Opelika, 36801 The Ballet Academy specializes in classical dance training which includes Ballet Technique, Pointe, Variations, and Pas de Deux (partnering), as well as instruction in Modern, Contemporary, and Tap. Ballet Academy also offers an Adult/College Ballet Class, Acro, Pointe Conditioning, Pilates, and Core Conditioning which consist of strengthening the core abdominal and back muscles utilizing excercises from the Pilates and Yoga curriculm.

is a unique service-oriented youth ballet company serving the greater East Alabama community. EACB has performed The Nutcracker annually since 1995, first as “Auburn Community Ballet” and then later as “Auburn Ballet” and “LynnTerra Ballet.” In 2010 LynnTerra Ballet became East Alabama Community Ballet. This final transition reflects the growth the company has experienced through the years as well as its connections to the local communities from which our young dancers emerge.

Contemporary, Lyrical, Hip Hop, Pointe, Pad de deux, and company (preschool-adult)

Nix Dance Studios

334-705-0303

lynnterraballet@gmail.com

www.eacballet.com

ad on page 19

850 Stage Road Auburn, 36830 Celebrating our 52nd Year! We offer classes for ages 3 and up. Choose from Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Lyrical/Contemporary, Hip Hop, Baton, Pointe, and Company. Since 1966, Nix Dance Studios have set the bar for excellence in dance performance. Nationally recognized artistic director, Paula Nix, has been a featured guest on The Today Show, in USA Weekly Magazine and serves as choreographer and general coordinator for the Lee County’s Junior Miss program. Our state of the art facilities are in a freestanding building designed specifically for dance. (3 years-adult) 334-887-7250

www.nixdancestudios.com

334-737-5551 aucrnp12@gmail.com www.myballetacademy.net

Tiger Twirlers

East Alabama Community Ballet

189 East University Drive Auburn, 36830 Taught by Gail Hammitt, Former Auburn High School and Auburn University Majorette. Lessons held inside Max Fitness. Special baton performance at Auburn University Events 601-630-6994

ad on page 33

ad on page 29

Auburn, 36830 Auditions for “The Nutcracker” will be held on August 20, 2017 at Rising Starz Studio (2140 East University Drive). East Alabama Community Ballet

Auburn Pointe School of Dance

1100 South College Street, 202 Auburn, 36830 Tots and Preballet, Classical Ballet, Jazz, Modern,

334-740-5118

www.aupointe.com

Get Paid for Having Great Style Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

2705 Fredrick Road, #3 Opelika, 36801 We spread the joy of Irish dancing through classes and performances. Classes include intricate footwork, musical timing and tune recognition, proper Irish dance technique, stage presence, flexibility, teamwork, rhythm, importance of working towards goals, and much more! (Ages 3 and up)

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Make Your Move Performing Arts Studio

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Celtic Traditions School of Irish Dance

www.celtic-traditions.net

1220 Fox Run Pkwy, Suite 212 Opelika, 36801 Dance classes for boys and girls of all ages including Baton, Tap, Jazz, Ballet, Acrobats, Hip Hop, Contemporary, Combination classes and more. Offering recreational and competition classes. 334-705-0205 www.makeyourmovedance.com

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road Opelika, 36801 Baton: Christmas Parade Sweatshirts will be purchased during the semester and will cost approximately $20-25. Batons can be ordered the first two nights of class and cost $15 each. All batons MUST be paid for before they are ordered. Each class must have at least 5 students to make. Creative Dance: Explore a combination of dance styles from hip hop to contemporary. (Ages 5 and up) 334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Rising Starz

2140 East University Drive Auburn, 36830 Offering ballet, tap, jazz, contempary, tumbling, baton, musical theatre and acting. 334-209-1464

www.risingstarzstudios.com

Fringe Consignment Boutique... the largest designer consignment store in the area. Come shop our favorite brands like Anthropolgie, Lilly Pulitzer Tory Burch, Kate Spade, J. Crew, Banana Republic, Free People & many more. 125 S 8th Street, Opelika • 334-705-6727 Monday-Saturday 10:00am-7:00pm Fringe Kids... just across the street... accepts popular, boutique branded, and designer children's clothing for girls and boys on consignmentsizes newborn through 16. 116 S 8th Street 334-745-4497 Monday-Saturday 10:00am-6:00pm

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Variations Dance

323 Airport Road, Suite E Auburn, 36830 Courses offered in all levels of dance including Preballet, Ballet, Pointe, Hip Hop, Jazz, Musical Theatre/Broadway, Lyrical, Stretch and Company, Tumbling and Acro. (3 years and up) 334-275-5013

www.variationsauburn.com

Educational AU Multilingual After School Program ad on page 27

351 West Thach Concourse (Haley Center) Auburn University, 36849 Offers a mix of academic and recreational multilingual study on campus, serving students in the Auburn/Opelika area. The program is to prepare the students for successful careers in the global economy by developing their language skills and cultural awareness. (Kindergarten-9th grade) 334-559-9023 auafterschool@auburn.edu www.synchroeducation.com

Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 37

425 Perry Street Auburn, 36830 Leap for the Starts LIteracy & Academic Tutoring: Assist young children with math, reading, and science skills with hands on activities and exploration that will motivate them to make better grades in school. Learn Computer Programming: An easy to use style. This program was designed with a beginner in mind and is very easy to use for those with

little or no experience. Please bring a laptop with Wi-Fi capability to each class. Work to Excel Job Readiness Program: Help youth and young adults learn how to effectively and efficiently manage their resources (i.e. time, money, stress, credit, relationships), complete major purchases (i.e. car, house), discover their job interests, develop job skills, and prepare for college. Students are assigned to volunteer and job shadowing sites and take field trips to colleges & universities. 334-501-2930 iambk@ymail.com and samuel.focht@ gmail.com www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Kumon Math and Reading

1550 Opelika Road, Suite 32 Auburn, 36830 As a global learning method with more than four million students worldwide, Kumon has become the most successful after-school math and reading program. Kumon helps accelerate your child’s learning - from as young as 3 all the way through high school. Free placement tests are administered by appointment. 334-501-8586 robertcox@ikumon.com www.kumon.com/auburn-opelika-al

Little Language

Foreign language program for children. Teaching Spanish, French, German, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, Japanese, ESL, and Arabic 251-610-7968

www.littlelanguagellc.com

Smith Group Behavioral Consulting

2006 Executive Park Drive, Suite A Opelika, 36801 Services provided: skill assessment across all areas of development, private academic and social tutoring, skill coaching in real life situations, development of behavior intervention plans for children with chronic problematic behaviors; along with

parental training and coaching, early intensive ABA intervention with children on the Autism Spectrum, weekly social skills and play groups.

334-332-9077 www.smithgroupbehavioralconsulting.com

Fitness My Gym Auburn ad on page 3

300 North Dean Road, #6 Auburn, 36830 Tiny Tykes, Gymsters, Cardio Kids, All Star Sports, Zumba and more! Offering structured, ageappropriate, weekly classes that incorporate music, dance, relays, games, special rides, gymnastics, sports and more. Children have loads of fun as they gain strength, balance, coordination, agility and flexibility while developing social skills, confidence and self-esteem. (6 weeks-12 years) 334-246-0987

www.mygym.com/auburn

HealthPlus Fitness Center

1171 Gatewood Drive Auburn, 36830 Kid’s Gym- The goal is to provide a safe, friendly environment for your child to explore health and fitness through supervised play. Activities include climbing wall, scooters, basketball, relays, kickball, tag games, dodgeball, jump ropes, swimming, board games and more. Infant Swimming Resource- a nationally recognized survival swimming program which teaches infants and toddlers ages 6 months to 6 years using the ISR Self-Rescue™ method. Water Babies and Swim Lessons- swim lessons offered throughout the year. Youth Swim for Fitness- 12 session water fitness program; ages 7-17. 334-887-5666

www.healthplusfitness.com

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Dr. Keri Miller Most major insurance accepted including BCBS and Southland. 742 N. Dean Road, Auburn, AL 36830 (334) 321-0780 www.gatorgrins.com

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Gymnastics/Cheer/ Tumbling Premier Spirit Academy ad on page 10

923 B Stage Road Auburn, 36830 Tumbling Kids: Classes teach tumbling skills, improve coordination, increase confidence and provide active fun. Classes for everyone! Beginners to advanced. Our highly trained staff ensures athletes masters skills while having fun. Ninja Kids: Teaches flexibility, strength, tumbling, obstacle course maneuvers and the discipline found in martial arts. All Stars: Competitive cheering team where highly skilled teams practice year-round and compete throughout the Southeast! These teams have won first place in more than 35 national competitions! Parent and Tot- ages 18-35 months. Parents join in on the tumbling fun with their kids. Preschool Tumbling- 3-4 years. Learn the basic tumbling skills. Youth Tumbling Classes - Ages 7 years and up. Beginning Tumbling to Advance Tumbling. Cheer Class- Get ready for cheerleading tryouts! Improve on your jumps and cheer motions. Not a tumbling class. Squad Lessons- Need help with team competition routines or music? Year round help. Knights All- Stars- Become a competitive cheerleader! The Knights-All Stars practice year round and compete locally and nationally. Knights Special Needs All-Stars- This team offers special needs athletes in our area to compete in cheerleading as a sport. Ages 7 years and older. 3 years and up) 334-821-7300

www.premierspiritacademy.com

Auburn Gymnastics Academy

703 West Samford Ave Auburn, 36849 Gymnastics lessons, teams, beginners, intermediate and advanced (Preschool and up) 334-844-9098

Co Athletics and Wellness

1006 Opelika Road Auburn, 36830 Cheerleading, Tumbling and Dance Tumbling. Also offering adult hip hop, tumbling and Piyo. Au.Some Athletes for children with special needs (Preschool and up) 334-649-3306

www.athleticsandwellness.com

Opelika Parks and Recreation Power Tumbling and Trampoline

1102 Denson Drive Opelika, 36801 Parent and Me Tumbling: Parents must participate in helping child. Max of 5 per class; ages 2-3yrs Tumble Tots: 4yrs Level 1 Tumbling: Learn basic tumbling skills and improve balance & coordination. 5yrs and up Level 2 Tumbling: Handstand forward roll, roundoff and power hurdle roundoff required. Must have coach’s recommendation. Level 3 Tumbling: Roundoff backhandspring on the floor and series backhandsprings on the tumble track required. Cheer Prep Tumbling: For middle school & high schoolers wanting to learn backhandsprings & Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

other higher level skills (Ages 2 and up) 334-705-5547

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Xtreme Atletics

3732 Pepperell Parkway Opelika, 36801 Our gymnastics and cheer programs are in 25000 square foot facility with state of the art mats, floors, foam pits, and more. 334-759-7030 www.xtremeathleticsauburn.com

Homeschool Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 37

Art Explorers I: Join us in learning about artists and art techniques as you explore a variety of art media and develop your own artistic style. Classes are organized around themes that highlight the basic elements of art. In the past, some of these themes have been, “Loads of Landscapes,” “Fins and Feathers,” “Patterns in Art,” and “Art from Odds and Ends.” Art Adventures: This class is designed for the young artist ready to meet art challenges at the intermediate level. Come have fun with photography and explore the core principles involved in capturing a creative photo. Rainbow Phonics and Handwriting: Are you looking for a fun introduction to school for your kindergartener or first grader? Mrs. Debbie will patiently help your child develop listening, handwriting, reading and motor skills through lively, multi-sensory instruction. Hands On Science: Explore science with experiments that engage all the senses. Learn about the wonders of science through music and movement. This class will encourage your student curiosity through hands on activities. As scientist they will participate, observe, ask questions and begin to record results. Composition: An engaging and inspiring composition class that will provide a fun environment that encourages growth in beginning writing utilizing the new Peoples and Places in Our Community by Institute for Excellence in Writing. Students will get to know the workers who keep a community running smoothly from firefighters and police officers to road crews and rescue workers. Composition II: An engaging and inspiring composition class that will provide a fun environment that encourages growth in writing utilizing the thematicbased All Things fun and Fascinating by Institute for Excellence in Writing. Humorous characters, cunning creatures, and meritorious men of history will captivate students as they learn to write with structure and style. Students will take notes, summarize narrative stories, write from pictures, put together a mini research report, and compose creative essays. Chemisty In Action: Fizz, bang, flash! Science should be experienced and enjoyed with all your senses. Become more curious and amazed as you explore the wonder of chemistry through experiments. Usborne Encyclopedia of Science will be used for reading assignments. Chemistry Concepts & Experiments: Class will expand on students assigned reading in the form of experiments. We will review key concepts in class and perform weekly hands on experiments to develop understanding of chemistry. Literature: Class will cover a novel plus the genres of short story and

poetry and will include interpretation, style, theme and much class discussion. South American Archaeology: Eight week course will cover pre-history cultures with emphasis on the Incan peoples, through European contact. (Ages 5 and up)

Homeschool, Youth Fitness / Homeschool PE

Build your child’s confidence through activity and education. Certified Personal Trainer provides individual or group classes that cover the importance of exercise, nutrition and a positive outlook. 708-341-3411

megan.m.meisner@gmail.com

Horseback Riding H & G Horse Quarters

943 Lee Road 57 Auburn, 36830 Our lesson program consists of competitive riders, beginner children and adults, and a strong college group. We regularly compete at one day local shows and weekend rated shows. We also have monthly sanctioned horse shows at H&G. Three arenas, complete with jumps, lights, sprinklers, and other appropriate teaching materials provide the excellent environment necessary for quality instruction. 334-887-0026 www.hghorsequarters.com

MC Horsemanship

3180 Lee Road 137 Auburn, 36830 Our programs provide each student with hands-on experience, grooming, leading, saddling, horse care, riding, and much more (Ages 5 and up ) www.mchorsemanship.com

Silver Lining Equestrian Center

5067 Birmingham Hwy Auburn, 36830 Specializing in Eventing and Hunter/Jumpers, we offer lessons to a wide range of ages and abilities, training rides, exercise rides, transportation and coaching at shows, superior horse care, and a fun and educational family environment for riders and their horses to enjoy 334-703-0870

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Martial Arts

Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 37

425 Perry Street Auburn, 36830 Yoshukai Karate- Children’s Class and Youth/ Adult: Emphasizes self-confidence, personal worth, and physical fitness. This class teaches basic strikes, blocks, and kicks. Tournament sparring and self-defense fighting is in a controlled setting. Aikido: A martial art used to defend against and escape from attacks such as grabs, punches, chokes. Weapons, “take-away” are also emphasized. A defensive martial art used to disarm and subdue attackers. (Ages 5 and up ) 334-501-2930

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Premier Spirit Academy ad on page 10

923 B Stage Road Auburn, 36830 Ninja Kids: teaches flexibility,strength, tumgling, ob-

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www.premierspiritacademy.com

World Championship Taekwondo ad on page 17

2701 Fredrick Road, Suite 308 Opelika, 36801 Prepare Your Child for Success in the Classroom! A koren form of martial arts that focuses on discipline, concentration, respect, balance and coordination. Students should expect to have fun while learning basic kicking and punching techniques, as well as, self-defense. (Children/Adults) 334-737-5617 wctauburn@gmail.com www.martialartsauburn.com

Auburn Jiu Jitsu

758 East Glenn Avenue Auburn, 36830 Brazilian/Gracie jiu-jitsu is a martial art and combat sport which focuses on grappling or ground-fighting. It has been proven the most effective form of martial art for self-defense. (Ages 3 and up) 334-329-5218

www.auburnjiujitsu.com

Auburn Academy of Martial Arts

323 Airport Road Auburn, 36830 Kinder Kick, Beginner, Advanced, Adults, and Homeschoolers. Fitness classes and Kettle Bell. No registration or membership fees. Ask about our family member discounts 334-502-7221

www.auburnacademy.com

Auburn Mixed Martial Arts

2515 East Glenn Ave Auburn, 36830 We pride ourselves in teaching realistic, but safe, fighting techniques in the martial arts of: Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Judo, Kickboxing and Submission Grappling. We also teach classes in Fitness Kickboxing and Kettle Bell. For our Kids, we offer classes in Brazilian Jiu Jitsu/Judo and Wrestling. 334-887-0818

www.auburnmma.com

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road Opelika, 36801 Karate: Begin as a new student or advance your martial arts skills in traditional Japanese Karate style taught by certified Black Belt level instructors. Traits of self-discipline, self-control and respect for self and others are woven into each Japanese International Karate Center (JIKC) training session. 334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Music Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 37

425 Perry Street Auburn, 36830 Mommy and Me Music Class: Be ready to sing, dance, play instruments, move around, and have fun! This interactive class for babies and young children with their caregivers uses the research-based “The Music Class” curriculum. We use a large variety of musical rhymes and styles to create a fun experience while unleashing the musical potential of young children. Joy’s Music Studio Voice Lessons: Offers private/group voice lessons for children and adults. The lessons focus on proper vocal techniques (such as breathing and breath management), diction, and artistic interpretation. Joy’s Music Studio Piano Lessons: Offers private/group piano lessons for children and adults. The piano lessons are primarily designed for beginners with a focus on keyboard familiarity, basic skills, music reading, and repertoire. IAMBK Rhythm Band: Class is designed and formatted to introduce children to basic fundamental

theories of music in reference to rhythm, timing, and note value. Students will have opportunities to accompany musical arrangements using a variety of percussion instruments such as rhythm sticks, maracas, tambourines, wood blocks, hand drums, etc. Auburn University Youth Orchestra Year 1/2/3 Classes: Aims to provide private and beginner group lessons on string instruments to local students as well as practical, hands-on training for Auburn University music and music education undergraduates. B Flat Clarinet Lessons: Learn to play this melodic instrument. Students will learn to read music, learn music theory, and play a wide selection of songs found in method books. Rhythm Guitaring Lessons: Have fun as you learn to play Rhythm Guitar! Lessons are formatted to teach basic chord patterns, chord transitions, and basic strumming patterns. Students will learn to transpose songs in different keys. 334-501-2930

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Spicer’s Music

2140 East University Drive Auburn, 36830 We offer lessons on an incredible variety of instruments, including but not limited to: guitar, bass guitar, upright bass, keyboard/piano, voice, harp, drums, ukulele, banjo, fiddle, violin, cello, harmonica, tin whistle, oboe, didgeridoo, mandolin, dulcimer, clarinet, saxophone, flute, trumpet, and french horn. 334-329-PLAY

www.spicersmusic.com

Kindermusik at AUMC

137 South Gay Street Auburn, 36830 Music-and-movement classes; children experience music of varying styles, genres, and cultures. They interact with other children and engage in movement, rhythm, and vocal activities that develop far more than just music skills. (Birth to 5yrs) 334-826-8800 michelles@aumc.net www.aumc.net

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Play and Fun Auburn Escape Zones

1234 Commerce Drive Auburn, 36830 Work together as a team to solve puzzles, uncover clues and unlock locks in order to solve the problem

Surge Trampoline Park

2506 Pepperell Parkway Opelika, 36801 A cutting-edge entertainment, fitness and sports facility unlikne anything you have ever experienced. We have created a venue for active social outings, intense workouts, and awesome birthday partie 334737-5599 www.surgeopelika.com

The Skate Center

1221 Commerce Drive Auburn, 36830 The only roller-skating facility in the area. We are perfect for birthday parties, special events or family fun.

334-821-1127 www.theskatecenterauburn.com

Shopping

or “escape the room”. But your team must work quickly because you only have 60 minutes. Can you escape? (Geared for ages 10 and older) 334-329-7088

www.auburnescapezones.com

Auburn Lanes

719 Opelika Road Auburn, 36830 Offers traditional bowling on 24 lanes in a recently renovated center that features new flooring, remodeled restrooms and 42-inch flat-screen monitors over the lanes. Challenge your friends to some arcadestyle games and grab a bite to eat! 334-887-6573

www.amf.com/auburnlanesal

CyberZone

107 North 9th Street Opelika, 36801 Featuring 6,000 sq ft laser tag arena with high-tech laser tag equipment, high energy music, lights and special effects. Private themed party space for parties, groups, reunions, and more. Arcade with new and retro games, reloadable cards and a kids’ Bounce Zone! 334-737-5000

www.cyberzone334.com

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art

901 South College Street Auburn, 36830 Educational programming which strives to meet the needs for our community through diverse offerings. Programs enhance and expand the educational experience of our exhibitions. Programs include Art Clubs, Tours, Exhibits, Talks, Films and Jazz, and more! 334-844-1484

www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Krehler Preserve and Nature Center

2222 North College Street Auburn, 36830 The mission is to provide programs, experiences, nature trails and natural habitats for education, study and relaxation for students and citizens of all ages while creating an atmosphere of discovery and stewardship toward our natural world. Offering programs for all ages: discovery hikes, nature walks, school programming, youth camps and workshops. 334-502-4553

www.auburn.edu/preserve

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

ad on page 38

Fringe Kids & Fringe Consignment

209 South 8th Street Opelika, 36801 Back-to-School Shopping? Start at Fringe Kids! We carry infant through children’s size 14/16. Popular brands, as well as boutique and designer brands. Now accepting fall and winter consignment. Also, teen shopping just across the street! 334-745-4497

www.fringeofopelika.com

Kids Clothes Connection ad on page 15

804 Columbus Parkway Opelika, 36801 Auburn and Opelika’s largest children’s and furniture consignment event. Fall/Winter sale dates: September. Open to the public. New and gently used baby, children, teen and maternity clothing. backpacks, sports gear, dance apparel and much more! 334-524-0606

www.kidsclothesconnection.com

Dottie Ollie

2131 Interstate Drive Opelika, 36801 Specialize in affordable, quality clothing and gifts for all ages. We have a variety of brands and sizes including newborns to tweens! 334-737-5770

www.shopdottieollie.com

Fun & Fancy

3051 Opelika Road Opelika, 36801 Your one stop shop in the Auburn Opelika area. We can help you with gift, clothing & shoe needs from baby to child and beyond. 334-745-2237

www.facebook.com/funandfancystore

Scouting Boy Scouts of America: Chattahoochee Council

1237 1st Avenue Columbus, 31901 Provides a program for young people that builds character, trains them in the responsibilities of

participating citizenship, and develops personal fitness. 706-327-2634

www.chattahoochee-bsa.org

Girl Scouts of Southen Alabama

145 Coliseum Blvd Montgomery , 36109 Daisies, Brownies and Girl Scouts. Girls discover who they are, where their talents lie, and what they care the most about. And they take action to change the world. Through our program, the Girl Scout Leadership Experience, girls develop a strong sense of self, display positive values, and seek challenges.

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Sports ad on page 37

Auburn, 36830 Youth and High School Lacrosse League: Youth and High School Fall season designed to learn and master the basic skills of lacrosse and practice fundamentals in order to properly learn the game and for players to be prepared for the Spring season. Cheerleading: Girls will be instructed by staff in basic cheerleading skills. Girls will be placed on squads to cheer for the Auburn Youth Football Association football games. Squads will practice once a week and cheer at one game each week. Flag Football: A modified version of football; the league will play once a week and practice a maximum of twice a week. Tryout Date and Location: Thursday, August 24, 2017, at Margie Piper Bailey Fields located next to Wrights Mill Rd. Elementary School. Skills test for 7 year olds at 5:30 and skills test for 6 year olds at 6:30 (No exceptions. Come to the correct age and time for skills testing). Auburn Youth Tackle Football: Join this full contact tackle sport. Players must provide their own equipment, which must meet NOCSAE standards. Skills test dates will be given out at registration. Fall Baseball: A fun league. No All Stars and no league standings. Ideal for players moving up to obtain experience on a larger field. Season will focus on fundamentals. Girls Fall Softball: A fun league. No All Stars and no league standings. Ideal for players moving up to obtain experience for spring. Season will focus on fundamentals. Youth Recreational Soccer Leagues: Leagues are designed to teach the basic skills of soccer and foster a love of the game within a format of fun. We employ small sided & full field games in order to promote player development within a child-safe environment. Tots Tennis and Fitness-Red Balls: An introduction to tennis for young children. This clinic will provide various tennis and movement activities that will focus on eye-hand and eye-foot coordination. Each child will improve on their motor skills through fun tennis drills and fitness drills. Some parental involvement will be needed. Munchin Tennis, Half Volleys and Future Starts: Open clinic for young children that are ready to learn the game of tennis. This clinic will focus on learning tennis skills that are needed to play the game of tennis. Drills will consist of various tennis skills and movement activities. These drills will focus on basic tennis skills such as the forehand, backhand, and

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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volley strokes. Movement drills will consist of different transport skills (running, hopping, jumping, and balance). Some parental involvement will be needed. (Ages 6-8) 334-501-2930 hmanning@auburnalabama.org www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road Opelika, 36801 Totally Sports: Sports, sports and more sports! Come enjoy flag football, basketball and more! Tennis for Fun Kids: A free tennis clinic for athletes with special needs that provides those athletes with an opportunity to have fun playing tennis, to learn basic skills and to socialize with each other. Awesome Goals Soccer: Designed to give children with physical or mental limitations soccer experience. AGS will focus on learning soccer skills in a safe and accepting atmosphere. Physician’s forms are required to play and are included in the registration materials. Pre-registration is required. Fall Swim Lessons: Class limited to 15 swimmers per session. Opelika SeaDawgs Fall Swim Team: Swim practice for serious swimmers who want to stay sharp. This is a competive program. Children must be able to swim. Will compete in optional meets. Parent/Information Meeting August 7 at 6:00 p.m. Opelika USA Swim Team: A year round competitive swim team offering swimmers the opportunity to improve swimming skills and compete in meets across the Southeast. All coaches are members of United State Swimming. Parent/Information Meeting August 7 at 6:00 p.m. Private Swim Lessons: Lessons are concentrated, intensive, one-on-one swim training experiences that give new swimmers the maximum opportunity to quickly learn basic swim skills and give advancing swimmers the opportunity to gain quick insight on skill technique development. Private lessons are also the perfect way for a nervous child or adult to begin the process of conquering fear and learning to safely enjoy the water. Fall Soccer: Recreation level play for girls and boys. Experience team sports in a fun, non-competitive environment. JR Basketball: Intro to basketball. Players will be placed on teams by age. All games and practices will be on Saturday mornings. Youth Basketball: Recreation basketball. Players will be placed on teams based on age and skill level. High School Basketball: Players may not be a member of the OMS or OHS team. Youth Wrestling: Player will compete based on age. Practices will be held at the OHS Wrestling Complex. Meets will be on weeknights at various school locations in Lee County. Flag Football League: Learn the game of football and enjoy playing without the hard hitting! Midget and Bulldog Youth Football: Birth certificate required. OPR leagues are weight restricted. Weight limits are strictly enforced. Supplies needed: shoes, mouthpiece, pants and pads for pants. Supplies provided: helmet and shoulder pads. Equipment is limited due to size and number of participation. Midget and Youth Bulldog Cheerleaders: Uniform Sizing Date: August 12 from 9:00am-12:00pm at Covington Rec Center. Beginner Red, Orange and Green Ball Tennis: Learn basics of tennis through fun eye-hand coordination, agility, balance and tennis based drills and games. Red foam balls used for class. (Ages 5 and up ) 334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Sports Academy

3765 Pepperell Parkway Opelika, 36801 Fall Instructional Baseball League: A two week training session to prepare players for the normal fall parks and recreation league. (Ages 7-8 and 9-10 yrs) 334-749-4040 www.sportsacademyauburn.com AOP

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FamilyCalendar Thursday, July 20

and fun at the pool! 6:00-8:00 p.m. (334) 501-2957, auburnalabama.org/pools.

84th Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo See July 21 for details.

Covington Movie Club: “Storks” Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Hot summer day with nothing to do? Come in and enjoy a movie, popcorn and drink! $3 per movie, ages 6-12.

Alabama’s 2017 Back to School Tax Holiday This back-to-school tax holiday offers bargains on clothing, computers, books, and school supplies. begins at 12:01 a.m. (CST) on Friday July 21, and ends at twelve midnight on Sunday July 23. Local sales and use tax may apply.

Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park Pine Mountain, Ga. 4:00 p.m. Team up (1-6 people) and complete in our on-site scavenger hunt with your camera or phone. Pick up checklist/rules at the park office anytime. Pictures must be brought to office with checklist by 4 p.m. Winners notified by phone that day to pick up prize. No charge. Parking fee $5. www.gastateparks.org/FDRoosevelt.

The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus 3:00-6:00 p.m. Open-air, growers-only farmers market that operates each Thursday, May-August, at Ag Heritage Park on the Auburn University campus. The Market features area vendors offering fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, herbs, ornamental plants and cut flowers as well as locally produced jams and jellies, baked goods, soaps, honey, goat cheese and more. www.agriculture. auburn.edu. Summer Serendipity: Movie: “Trolls” Auburn Public Library. 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Join us each Thursday at this program for all ages. You never know what you might learn! www.auburnalabama.org/library. Gamer’s Society Auburn Public Library. Computers will be reserved in Youth Services for Minecraft, and the Programming Room will be open for Pokémon, board games, and video games. Games must be rated E, E10, or T, no rated M games. The Auburn Public Library will provide materials for video game play. Gamers must have a valid Minecraft account to play. Minecraft limited to 10 participants. www.auburnalabama.org/ library. Capital City Shape Notes Singing Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. These traditional singers perform from shape note hymn books published in Alabama, including “The Sacred Harp” and “Christian Harmony.” The daylong singing will be held in the Old Alabama Town Reception Center and is free and open to the public. The Singing is held annually on the third Thursday of July. www. oldalabamatown.com. First Responder Appreciation Night All Police, Fire and EMS and their families get FREE admission to the SportsPlex pool. Refreshments and door prizes! 6:00 - 8:00 p.m.

Friday On The Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. Join us Friday evenings from 6:30 until 8:30 on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, your coolers, your pups (on a leash) and enjoy your family and friends and music provided by local musicians. It’s a great way enjoy a slower pace on Friday. Come join us! www.russellcrossroads.com. Back to School Ice Cream Social Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Cool off from the heat with ice cream sundaes you decorate, while meeting new kids right before school starts! $5 Ages 5-12. 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Young Writer’s Club Auburn Public Library. 10-11 a.m. Grades 2-5. Do you love to write and tell stories? Join the Young Writer’s Club at the Auburn Public Library. We will do one hour of fun writing exercises and sharing our work in a safe environment. Join us to stretch your writing skills. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Teen Writer’s Club Auburn Public Library. 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. Do you love to write and tell stories? Join the Teen Writer’s Club at the Auburn Public Library. Each week will explore storytelling and writing through exercises, author advice, and sharing our work. Bring your imagination, laptop, pen, paper, and create something new! www.auburnalabama.org/library Anime and Manga Art Club Auburn Public Library. Ages 10-18, 3:30 - 4:30 p.m. Have fun drawing and socializing at this fun new club. Bring your own art supplies and fun. www.auburnalabama.org/library Remarkable Reptiles FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. 9:30 a.m. Get a close look at some of our scaly park inhabitants like lizards, snakes and turtles. Live animals will be used in the program. Learn about their natural history and how to identify them. Meet at the covered shelter next to the Trading Post in the campground.

Saturday, July 22

National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “Tangled” & “The Jungle Book” NIM Kids is hosting the 2017 NIM Kids Film Fest (Summer Edition) Tuesday – Thursday, June 6 through July 27. The films are FREE to the public and are offered twice each day at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Admission is on a first come, first seated basis. Concessions will open prior to the first showing.

Youth Extravaganza 28 Samford Avenue, Opelika. 3:00-7:00 p.m. Free to the public.

Friday, July 21

Barks & Brews Red Clay Brewing Company, Opelika. 3:00-5:00 p.m. The Lee County Humane Society joins Red Clay Brewing Company for the adoption event of the summer. Barks and Brews is an opportunity for you to sample Opelika’s finest local beer, socialize with the passionate people of Lee the County Humane society, and meet your best friend. www.facebook.com/leecountyhumanesociety.

84th Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island. More than 3,000 anglers from at least 24 states will fish in the Gulf of Mexico for three days for more than $400,000 in cash and prizes across 30 categories. The Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo is held the third full weekend of July each year. www.adsfr.com. Friday Night Splash Samford Pool, Auburn. Join the Aquatics Staff for Friday Night Splash! Enjoy music, a cookout, games

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

Legomania Auburn Public Library. Show off your engineering skills and joins us at the Auburn Public Library every Saturday for Legomania! Bring your friends, and build anything your imagination can invent! www.auburnalabama.org/library. Summer Sunset Music Series: Into the Further Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, Ga. Enjoy sweet sounds of Summer with live music from a variety of bands, on Robin Lake Beach. Admission for day and overnight guests as well as Annual Passholders, and up to five guests in the same vehicle, is free. Bring a chair or blanket to enjoy the show. www. callawaygardens.com. Alabama’s 2017 Back to School Tax Holiday See July 21 for details. USA Softball Doubleheader Exhibition Auburn University is set to host the USA Softball Women’s National Team for a pair of exhibitions, at Jane B. Moore Field. First pitch times slated for 5 p.m. and 7 p.m., respectively. Saturday morning camp from 9:30 a.m. until 12 p.m. at the Auburn softball complex. The camp includes a player meet-and-greet where fans can mingle with Team USA players. Tickets and information at usasoftballofalabama.com.

Sunday, July 23 84th Annual Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo See July 21 for details. Wedding Extravaganza Columbus Trade Center. 12:30-4:30 p.m. With loads of vendors at The Columbus Trade and Convention Center, you’ll find everything you need to plan the wedding of your dreams! Fashion show and aisle upon aisle of exhibits by the area’s leading wedding professionals. From Entertainment to Fashions, Admission $7. www.weddingsofgeorgia.com. Alabama’s 2017 Back to School Tax Holiday See July 21 for details.

Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run Lake Martin. The event will begin at the Ridge Marina and will end at Kowaliga Restaurant near Kowaliga. 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. 256-212-1499. www.russellmarine.net. Admission charged.

Wetumpka’s River and Blues Music & Arts Festival This is a great event for family fun with music, arts, kidzone, food. Free to all!

Monday, July 24 AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “Despicable Me.” Auburn 14 Theater. 10:00 a.m., Mondays and Wednesdays. Admission is $4 plus tax and comes with a Kids Pack, which includes a kid size popcorn, drink, and gummy candy. Youth for Christ Golf Classic Auburn University Club. Join East Alabama Youth For Christ for the 32nd Annual Golf Classic featuring Steve Bartkowski and Will Herring. The classic will be held at the Auburn University Club. 334-501-5637.

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald’s Birthday Art Exhibit Montgomery. Celebrate Zelda Sayre Fitzgerald’s 117th Birthday! An art exhibition will be held as part of the birthday celebration. www.thefitzgeraldmuseum.org. Magical Monday Matinees Auburn Public Library. 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Whether muggle or magical, hop aboard the Hogwarts Express and join us at the Auburn Public Library, and embark on a magical journey through the wizarding world of Harry Potter! The library will feature each Harry Potter movie in chronological order on Monday afternoons in June and July, culminating with a birthday celebration on July 31! www. auburnalabama.org/library.

Tuesday, July 25 O Grows Farmers Market Come walk around the Opelika Grows Farmers Market each Tuesday this summer from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to find fresh, local produce ranging from heirloom tomatoes to collard greens. You may even find some fresh bread, homemade ice cream or local honey. The Opelika Grows Farmers Market is location is across the street from the Cultural Arts Center on Glenn Street, near the community garden. 334-745-0466. Summer Swing Concert: The Fedoras Every Tuesday, the Opelika Parks and Recreation Dept. hosts a free outdoor concert at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Park in Opelika. This 13-week concert series offers a wide variety of musical entertainment. Burgers and hotdogs available for purchase from 6:15-7:30 p.m. Complimentary lemonade during the concerts. Rocky Brook Rocket complimentary train rides. Bring a quilt or lawn chair and enjoy the evening! 334-705-5567. Teen Float-N-Movie: “The Giver” Samford Pool. Ages 13 & Up. 8:15 p.m. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite inflatable from home, as none will be provided. Doors Open: 8:15 p.m. Movie Begins: 8:30 p.m. Doors Close: 8:45 p.m. (334) 501-2957. auburnalabama.org. Literary Classics Club: “Fahrenheit 451” by Ray Bradbury Auburn Public Library. 1:00 - 2:00 p.m. A book discussion group for you to divulge your inner literati! Teens, grades 9-12, can join us for hot beverages and lively discussion as we dissect some of the most influential pieces of western literature. www.auburnalabama.org/library. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “The Wizard of Oz” & “Pete’s Dragon” NIM Kids is hosting the 2017 NIM Kids Film Fest (Summer Edition) Tuesday – Thursday, through July 27. The films are FREE to the public and are offered twice each day at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. Admission is on a first come, first seated basis. Concessions will open prior to the first showing.

Wednesday, July 26 Columbus Kids Market Back to School Consignment Sale Central Baptist Church, Columbus, Ga. This is a great way to save $$$ on children’s clothes and toys. From Infant to Juniors, you’ll find something for every child in your home. AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “Despicable Me”. See July 24 for details.

Adventure Day Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Spend your afternoon on a scavenger hunt! $10, Ages 5-12. 1:00-4:00 p.m. Puppet Troupe Auburn Public Library. 3:30 - 4:00 p.m. and 5:30 - 6:00 p.m. Join the Auburn Public Library Puppet Troupe for shows full of laughs, wonder, and puppets sure to delight every one of all ages! Each show will feature TWO performances for your entertainment. www.auburnalabama.org/library. National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “The Wizard of Oz” & “Pete’s Dragon” See July 25 for details.

National Infantry Museum Kids Summer FREE Film Fest: “The Wizard of Oz” & “Pete’s Dragon” See July 25 for details.

Friday, July 28 Tactical Athlete Human Factors Summit See July 27 for details. Back to School Bash Covington Rec Center, Opelika. Come enjoy one last day of summer with food and fun! (Limited number of school supplies will be given away). Free and All ages welcome. 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.

Twilight Adventure Walk FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. 8:00 p.m. Awaken your senses to the sights and sounds of the evening. Great program for all ages as we walk 1 mile along a natural surface trail and investigate the lives of spectacular spiders, misunderstood bats, and fantastic frogs. Bring a flashlight. Meet at the Trading Post in the campground.

Cheers on the Corner Taste of Downtown Auburn An inaugural taste of downtown Auburn from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. Tickets are $25 in advance or $30 at the Cheers tent. Each of the stops along the way will provide you with a savory bite representative of the flavors of downtown Auburn. You will also receive a complimentary souvenir glass. Tickets may be purchased at participating stops or online at www.downtownauburnonline.com.

I Run Opelika Health Expo & 5k Run/Walk Lee County Courthouse Square. 7:00 a.m. Sponsored by SmoothSax Music and Cornerstone of EAMC. In conjunction with the Health Expo, we are holding a 5K Run/Walk. This event will take participants on a tour through our lovely Historic Downtown area. We look forward to having participants of all ages and fitness levels. The proceeds from this event are going to Cornerstone of East Alabama Medical Center. 334750-7672.

Friday On The Green See July 21 for details.

Thursday, July 27 Color Vibe 5K Mobile Civic Center. Kids 12 and under run for FREE! A portion of our proceeds will also be donated back to a local charity, Feeding the Gulf Coast. Invite your friends and family to this event so they won’t miss out on the fun! To register: http://www.thecolorvibe. com/mobile. Columbus Kids Market Back to School Consignment Sale See July 26 for details. Tactical Athlete Human Factors Summit Auburn Campus. The two-day summit is hosted by the Warrior Research Center, part of the Auburn University College of Education, School of Kinesiology. The summit consists of presentations, posters, and panel discussions about research in the field and new projects related to soldier training, injury prevention, medical treatment/rehabilitation, equipment/vehicle impact, and more. 334-844-1941. The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus See July 20 for details. Summer Serendipity: Summer Celebration Auburn Public Library. 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Join us each Thursday at this program for all ages. www.auburnalabama.org/library. Gamer’s Society See July 20 for details.

Columbus Kids Market Back to School Consignment Sale See July 26 for details. Young Writer’s Club See July 21 for details. Teen Writer’s Club See July 21 for details. Anime and Manga Art Club See July 21 for details.

Saturday, July 29 Chilton County Arts Festival Clanton. www.chiltoncountyartscouncil.com. Eye Spy Scavenger Hunt at FDR State Park See July 22 for details. Young Eagles Day Columbus Airport, 3250 W. Britt David Road, Columbus, GA. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). All kids ages 8-17 are invited to take a Free airplane ride over Columbus! Most flights last 20 minutes. The goal is to provide a fun and educational aviation experience. 706-324-2453. Legomania See July 22 for details. Run, Walk, and Roll 5K and 1 Mile Fun Run Woodruff Park, Columbus. A 1 Mile fun run and a 5k walk/run to raise awareness and funds for Ronald McDonald House Charities of West Georgia, Inc. Columbus Kids Market Back to School Consignment Sale See July 26 for details.

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FamilyCalendar Tuesday, August 1

Summer Sunset Music Series: Sons N Britches See July 22 for details. Morning Target Archery FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. 9:00 a.m. This stationary target shooting adventure is for ages 10 to adult. We provide basic instruction and all the needed equipment. Groups can contact us for a special time. Pay and pre-register at the Park Office. Meet across the from Park Office. 706-663-4858. Bluebirds & Butterflies FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. 9:30 a.m. Join the naturalist for a short walk and brief talk about butterflies and bluebirds. Both of these flying wonders have needs in order for you to attract them to your yard. We will review these basics and check on our bluebird boxes and demonstration butterfly garden. Meet at the Park Office. $5 parking. 706663-4858. Water Wonders FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. 4:00 p.m. Take a net to dip in and see what inhabitants live in our lakes. Look for fish, frogs and lots of insects. We provide the nets, viewing scopes, and lots of interesting discoveries. Children must be accompanied by adults. Meet next to the Boathouse on Lake Delanor in the campground. 706-663-4858.

Sunday, July 30 Back-to-School Pool Party Drake Pool, Auburn. 1:00-6:00 p.m. All-day games, music and fun at the pool! There will be special concessions for sale and back-to-school giveaways all day at the pool, from backpacks to notebooks and more. Please note: Drake Pool’s Back-to-School Pool Party coincides with the July Aqua-Basketball tournament. $2 per person or FREE with Splash Pass. (334) 501-2957. Alabama Dance Theatre presents Stars On the Riverfront Riverwalk Amp, Montgomery. 7:00 p.m. Local Food Vendors will be on site for each performance. Free Admission. www.visitingmontgomery.com.

Summer Swing Concert: Back to School Bash Opelika Parks and Recreation Dept. hosts this free outdoor concert at 7 p.m. at the Municipal Park in Opelika. Burgers and hotdogs available for purchase from 6:15-7:30 p.m. Complimentary lemonade during the concert. Rocky Brook Rocket complimentary train rides. Bring a quilt or lawn chair and enjoy the evening! 334-705-5567. O Grows Farmers Market Come walk around the Opelika Grows Farmers Market from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to find fresh, local produce ranging from heirloom tomatoes to collard greens. You may even find some fresh bread, homemade ice cream or local honey. The Opelika Grows Farmers Market is location is across the street from the Cultural Arts Center on Glenn Street, near the community garden. 334-745-0466.

Wednesday, August 2 AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “The Peanuts Movie”. See July 24 for details. Nickelback: Feed the Machine Tour Verizon Amphitheater, Alpharetta, GA. www.ticketmaster.com.

Alabama Dance Theatre presents Stars On the Riverfront See July 30 for details. AMC Classic Summer Movie Camp “The Peanuts Movie”. See July 24 for details. Magical Monday Matinees Auburn Public Library. 2:00 - 5:00 p.m. Hop aboard the Hogwarts Express and join us at the Auburn Public Library, and embark on a magical journey through the wizarding world of Harry Potter! The library featured each Harry Potter movie in chronological order on Monday afternoons in June and July, culminating with a birthday celebration today! www.auburnalabama. org/library. Columbus Kids Market Back to School Consignment Sale See July 26 for details.

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

Friday On the Green Alexander City. Join us Friday evenings from 6:30 until 8:30 on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, pup on a leash, snacks and coolers, and enjoy your fam and friends and music provided by local musicians. Free. www.russellcrossroads.com. Twilight Adventure Walk FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. 8:00 p.m. Awaken your senses to the sights and sounds of the evening. Great program for all ages as we walk 1 mile along a natural surface trail and investigate the lives of spectacular spiders, misunderstood bats, and fantastic frogs. Bring a flashlight. Meet at the Trading Post in the campground. 706-663-4858. Movies On the Beach: “The Angry Birds Movie” Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, Ga. Bring a blanket, chair or beach towel and curl up on the beach to watch a family-friendly movie. Admission is included with paid gate admission and overnight stays. Annual Passholders, and up to five guests in the same vehicle, can enter for free with presentation of Annual Pass card and ID. After 5 p.m., admission is $10 per adult; $5 per child (ages 6 to 12); children five and younger are admitted free. www.callawaygardens.com.

Idina Menzel BJCC, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com.

Thursday, August 3

Saturday, August 5

First Day of School for Opelika City Schools www. opelikaschools.org. Market at AU 3:00 - 6:00 p.m. Ag Heritage Park, on the grounds of Ag Heritage Park’s Edward L. Lowder Red Barn and Farm Implement Museum, 580-B South Donahue Drive. Stream Walk FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, Ga. 9:30 a.m. Dip in our mountain stream to discover small vertebrates like crayfish and salamanders and macroinvertebrates like dragonfly nymphs. We provide all equipment. Geared towards adults and families with children ages 4 and up. Meet at the playground in front of the Liberty Bell Pool. Wear shoes you can get wet. 706-663-4858. Gamer’s Society It’s Game On at the Auburn Public Library. Computers will be reserved in Youth Services for Minecraft, and the Programming Room will be open for Pokémon, board games, and video games. Games must be rated E, E10, or T--no rated M

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Comedy Night with James Gregory The Bottling Plant Event Center. The doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m. Advanced General Admission – $25, Day of General Admission – $30, To order individual tickets call 334-705-5466 or order online (Online ticket sales ends 8/3/17 at 4:00 p.m). www.bottlingplanteventcenter.com.

Daughtry Verizon Amphitheater, Alpharetta, GA. www.ticketmaster.com.

Columbus Kids Market Back to School Consignment Sale See July 26 for details.

Monday, July 31

games. The Auburn Public Library will provide materials for video game play. Gamers must have a valid Minecraft account to play. Minecraft will be limited to 10 participants. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Barks & Brews Red Clay Brewing Company, Opelika. 3:00-5:00 p.m. The Lee County Humane Society joins Red Clay Brewing Company for the adoption event of the summer. Sample Opelika’s finest local beer, socialize with the passionate people of Lee the County Humane society, and meet your new best friend. www.facebook.com/leecountyhumanesociety. Summer Sunset Music Series: Brandon Holden Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, Georgia. Live music on Robin Lake Beach. Admission for day and overnight guests as well as Annual Passholders, and up to five guests in the same vehicle, is free. Admission is only $10 per person. Bring a chair or blanket to enjoy the show. www.callawaygardens. com. 153rd Commemorative of the Battle of Mobile Bay Dauphin Island. The event highlights Fort Gaines integral role in the Battle of Mobile Bay. The cannon will be fired every forty-five minutes in honor of the soldiers that fought in this pivotal battle. Blacksmith demonstration, demonstrations of military drills, training, firing of the cannons, and much more. www.dauphinisland.org. Commemoration of the Battle of Mobile Bay & Siege of Fort Morgan A one-day living history event commemorating the events that happened at Mobile Bay August

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5-23, 1864. The fort will come to life with drills and demonstrations of artillery by historical interpreters. www.fort-morgan.org. The Opelika Sportsplex Triathlon for Kids at the Opelika Sportsplex and Aquatics Center Open to kids ages 6 - 15. Swim/bike/ run. Each participant will receive a t-shirt and medal. No assistance will be given to swimmers. Pre-registration is required. For fees, registration, and information, visit www.sportsplextriforkids.com. Woodstock 5K RRCA Regional Championship Anniston. A fun and challenging event for runners and walkers, including 5k race, kid’s run, expo, food vendors and door prizes. 4th Annual Bayou La Batre Kayak Classic Hosted by the Bayou La Batre Area Chamber of Commerce. Kayakers can fish in any Alabama Waters which includes our small Bayous or out in the Gulf of Mexico. Register to take a chance at becoming our next Master Angler or Junior Master. Fun-filled family day of music, entertainment, shopping, and eating. www.bayoulabatrekayakclassic.org. Pelican Paddle Canoe and Kayak Race Fairhope. The Weeks Bay Foundation’s 5th Annual Pelican Paddle Canoe and Kayak Race is for all ages and skill levels. There’s a 7-mile pro option for the serious paddlers, and a non-competitive, guided Eco-Tour of Weeks Bay (begins after the racers take off). Entry includes hot dog lunch, water/soft drinks, a Pelican Paddle t-shirt, and a chance to win a kayak and other prizes! A limited number of loaner kayaks available, but must be reserved in advance. www.weeksbay.org. Legomania Auburn Public Library. Show off your engineering skills and joins us at the Auburn Public Library every Saturday for Legomania! Bring your friends, and build anything your imagination can invent! www.auburnalabama.org/library. Morning Target Archery See July 29 for details. Water Wonders See July 29 for details.

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Home Depot Kids Workshop Opelika. 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon. The Home Depot offers FREE hands-on workshops designed for children ages 5 – 12. All children get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Sunday, August 6 Founder’s Day, Mr. Bellingrath’s Birthday Theodore, Al. Born in Atlanta, Ga., on August 6, 1869, Walter D. Bellingrath was Mobile’s first CocaCola bottler and the founder of Bellingrath Gardens and Home. In honor of Mr. Bellingrath’s Birthday, admission to the Gardens will be free to all Mobile and Baldwin County residents! There will be an additional charge to tour the Bellingrath Museum Home. www.bellingrath.org.

Tuesday, August 8 O Grows Farmers Market See August 1 for details. Mary J. Blige: Strength of a Woman Tour Wolf Creek Amphitheater, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com. Family Discovery Walk Explore the preserve and learn something new each month about plants, wildlife and nature with a trained naturalist who will offer your family fun opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and exercise! 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. for families with children ages 5 to 12. Free to the public. For info, contact the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center at (334) 7076512 or e-mail (preserve@auburn.edu).

Wednesday, August 9 First Day of School for Auburn City Schools www.auburnschools.org. Matchbox Twenty & Counting Crows: A Brief History of Everything Tour Oak Mountain Amphitheater Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com

Thursday, August 10 Great Grown-Up Spelling Bee Auburn Alumni Center, 317 South College Street. Sponsored by Lee County Literacy Coalition. Team sponsorships are now available. For more information, please contactStacie@leecountyliteracy. org. www.leecountyliteracy.org. Gamer’s Society See August 3 for details. Adult Nature Hike Join our guides for a peaceful morning walk from 8:30 – 9:30 a.m. Free to the public. Donations are welcomed. Advance registration is not required. Cancelled in the event of rain. Contact the Kreher Preserve and Nature Center at (334) 707-6512 or e-mail (preserve@auburn.edu). Jason Aldean They Don’t Know Tour Oak Mountain Amphitheater, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com. John Mayer Lakewood Amphitheater, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com. Market at AU See Aug. 3 for details.

Friday, August 11 Alabama Restaurant Week Restaurants around the state, including many featured in the popular brochure “100 Dishes To Eat in Alabama Before You Die,” invite diners to experience the wonderful culinary scene of Sweet Home Alabama. Participating restaurants will offer specials throughout the week. 1-334-242-4169.

Movies On the Beach: “The Legend of Tarzan” Callaway Gardens. See Aug. 4 for details.

Saturday, August 12 Morning Target Archery See July 29 for details. Water Wonders See July 29 for details. Legomania See August 5 for details. Second Saturday at Columbus Museum Columbus, Ga. 10:00 a.m. Free. Drop by the art cart with your children and grandchildren to explore various mediums of art, enjoy art related stories, and participate in gallery hunts at the Museum. Children of all ages are welcome and encouraged to participate. Keep the Spirit of ‘45 Alive Day Montevallo. Commemorating the end of World War II on August 14, 1945 by celebrating a National Day of Remembrance to the legacy of service of America’s Greatest Generation. www.scalnc.org. Magical Creatures Program The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum. Meet some of the magical animals that are featured in movies like Harry Potter series and “The Hobbit”. You will get a chance to meet animals up close, learn about them in their habitats, and take home some special prizes for yourself. Geared for boys and girls, 4-10 years old, advanced reservations required. www.montgomeryzoo.com. Dothan Artifact Show Call or see website for exact date of event. Admission charged. WestGate Gym--Display of pipes, bowls, arrowheads, Civil War relics, fossils and more. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. 334-821-5823. www.dothanshow.com. Summer Sunset Music Series: Good Fellas Callaway Gardens. See August 5 for details. Second Saturday at Pioneer Park Loachapoka. 9:30 - 12:30. History re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts. Blacksmiths, spinners and weavers, gardeners are in the gardens, crafts and seasonal activities are scheduled, and someone is always cooking up a meal in the fireplace or outdoors. The dulcimer group meets at the Museum at 1 p.m. Activities are different each month. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org

Sunday, August 13 Lionel Richie: All the Hits with Very Special Guest Mariah Carey Infinite Energy Center, Duluth, Georgia. www.ticketmaster.com.

Friday On the Green See August 4 for details.

Monday, August 14

Twilight Adventure Walk See Aug. 4 for details.

Auburn Area Community Theatre Jr. Fall Show Auditions: “The Jungle Book” Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn. Open

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FamilyCalendar auditions for ages 5 – 12, from 3 - 6 p.m. This is not a musical, but there will be instruments and dancing incorporated into the story. Please come prepared to show us your best jungle animal moves and sounds. You can sign up for a time slot or simply show up. The sign up list, and short selections from the script, will be available at the front desk of JDCAC on Monday, August 7. Contact: Melanie Brown • AACT • (334) 332-6834 supersugarmel@gmail.com.

Saturday, August 19

Tuesday, August 15

Super Saturdays at LaGrange Art Museum 112 Lafayette Pkwy, LaGrange, Ga. 1:00 - 4:00 p.m. Free family art day! Spend the afternoon at the Museum. www.lagrangeartmuseum.org.

O Grows Farmers Market See August 1 for details. Auburn Area Community Theatre Jr. Fall Show Auditions: “The Jungle Book” See August 14 for details.

Movies On the Beach: “The Jungle Book” Callaway Gardens. See Aug. 4 for details.

Morning Target Archery See July 29 for details.

Legomania See August 5 for details. Water Wonders See July 29 for details.

Thursday, August 17

Buckmasters Expo 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. See August 18 for details.

Home Sweet Auburn Auburn University Greenspace. 4:006:00 p.m. Again this summer, the Auburn Chamber will partner with Auburn University to showcase member restaurants to incoming freshman and their families during Home Sweet Auburn. Questions? Contact Stephanie Calhoun at (334) 887-7011 or stephanie@ auburnchamber.com.

South Alabama Pro Rodeo Classic See August 18 for details.

Market at AU See Aug. 3 for details. Gamer’s Society See August 3 for details.

Friday, August 18 Chirps and Chips Birmingham Botanical Gardens. Alabama Wildlife Center Junior Board’s annual Chirps and Chips fundraiser benefitting AWC. A funfilled casino-themed night that includes games, live entertainment, a silent auction, a drawing, complimentary hors d’oeuvres, wine, & beer. To check for changes in venue, date, time, cost or description, visit the Alabama Wildlife Center website or Facebook. www.awrc.org. Twilight Adventure Walk See Aug. 4 for details. Buckmasters Expo Renaissance Hotel & Convention Center, Montgomery. A hunting show featuring more than 300 exhibitors, Buckmasters Top Bow Indoor Championship, Young Bucks activities, deer scoring, hunter education courses, Dock Dogs, Saturday night concert and more. Friday 3 - 9 p.m. 800-240-3337. www.buckmasters.com/resources/expo.aspx. Friday On the Green See August 4 for details. South Alabama Pro Rodeo Classic Ozark. Come see bull riding, team roping, barrel racing, calf roping, bareback riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding and breakaway roping.

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

Summer Sunset Music Series: Barstool Prophets Callaway Gardens. See August 5 for details.

city-wide Make Music Day celebration. Last year 850 music-loving participants showed up in hopes of beating the Guinness record (953) for the world’s largest band. “This year’s song will be Sister Hazel’s ‘All for You’,” said Tim Spicer, owner and manager of Spicer’s Music. “Even better news, Sister Hazel is coming and they are going to perform with us!” Registration is free and open to all musicians. Anyone interested can register at www.spicersmusic. com.

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Youth for Christ Comedy Café with Ken Davis 6:30 p.m. The Bottling Plant Event Center, downtown Opelika. Join us for the Youth for Christ Comedy Cafe with Guest Comedian Ken Davis. For more information contact: (334) 501-5637 or yfc@ insideyfc.com.

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Wednesday, August 23 Concourse/South Music and Arts Festival See August 20 for details.

Thursday, August 24 Market at AU See Aug. 3 for details.

Auburn Football Fan Day Jordan-Hare Stadium. www.auburntigers.com.

Concourse/South Music and Arts Festival See August 20 for details.

Sunday, August 20

Gamer’s Society See August 3 for details.

Tri Chewacla Sprint Triathlon Chewacla State Park, Auburn. Race Distances: Swim: 500 meters, Bike: 12 miles, Run: 3.1 miles. Awards will be presented to the winners of each age group. Each participant will receive an event t-shirt, swim cap, and a packet filled with sponsor gifts and promotions. Every finisher will receive a finisher’s medal. www.triauburnal.com.

Friday, August 25

Southern Bridal Show Birmingham Jefferson Convention Complex. Wedding professionals will present the latest trends and ideas for weddings, including photography, catering, bridal gown and tuxedos, flowers and more. 12 - 5 p.m. Admission charged. 800-532-8917. www.EliteEvents.com. Buckmasters Expo 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. See August 18 for details. Concourse/South Music and Arts Festival Downtown Opelika. Cottonseed Studios presents Concourse/South, a weeklong music and arts festival in downtown Opelika. www.cottonseedstudios.com.

Monday, August 21 Concourse/South Music and Arts Festival See August 20 for details.

Tuesday, August 22 O Grows Farmers Market See August 1 for details. Concourse/South Music and Arts Festival See August 20 for details. 2nd Annual Make Music Day Alabama Gay Street, Downtown Auburn. Spicer’s Music is proud to be hosting the state of Alabama’s largest

Friday On the Green See August 4 for details. Twilight Adventure Walk See Aug. 4 for details. Bobby Bones Funny & Alone RiverCenter for the Performing Arts, Columbus. The host of iHeartMedia’s The Bobby Bones Show, reaching millions of listeners on nearly 100 stations, Bones’ stand-up show combines his love for country music and comedy in his distinct humorous patter, while regaling stories from growing up in rural Arkansas, to hosting the biggest show in country radio. www.rivercenter.org. Movies On the Beach: “Beauty and the Beast” Callaway Gardens. See Aug. 4 for details. Concourse/South Music and Arts Festival See August 20 for details.

Saturday, August 26 Annual Okra Festival Lowndesboro. The Okra Festival started as a small community event celebrating the only crop that survived an unusually hot summer in 2000. More than a decade later, it is one of the highlights of the summer season, featuring local food, music and cultural arts. www.okrafestival.org.

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FamilyCalendar Young Eagles Day Columbus Airport, 3250 W. Britt David Road, Columbus, Georgia. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). All kids ages 8-17 are invited to take a Free airplane ride over Columbus! Most flights last 20 minutes. The goal is to provide a fun and educational aviation experience. 706-324-2453.

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Tuesday, August 29 Literary Classics Club: “Fahrenheit 451” by Ray Bradbury Auburn Public Library. 1:00-2:00 p.m. A book discussion group for you to divulge your inner literati! Teens, grades 9-12, can join us for hot beverages and lively discussion as we dissect some of the most influential pieces of western literature. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

September Sept. 1 Come Home to the Corner The City of Auburn and the Downtown Merchants Association want to celebrate football season by hosting Come Home to the Corner events of 2017! Come downtown to enjoy live music, shopping and dining from 4 - 10 p.m. www. downtownauburnonline.com. Sept. 1 On the Town: Downtown Opelika’s Night Out Invite your friends and family and enjoy a nice evening in Downtown Opelika. Eat at one of the fabulous restaurants. Visit the many charming shops which are open until 9 p.m. Get fired up at the AU Pep Rally at 6:30 p.m. plus lots of games and live music and of course, ice-cream! www.opelikamainstreet.org. Sept. 1 Summer Sunset Music Series: The Regulars Callaway Gardens. See August 5 for details. Sept. 1 Football, Fans and Feathers Sponsored by Southeastern Raptor Center. During the show, hawks, falcons, eagles and other birds of prey are free-flown from towers and around the amphitheater, enabling visitors to see these raptors flying close. Tickets are $5 per person and purchased upon entry. The hour-long program begins at 4 p.m. at the center’s the 350-seat Edgar B. Carter Educational Amphitheater, located at 1350 PrattCarden Drive off Shug Jordan Parkway. www.vetmed. auburn.edu.

Sept. 1 - 3 19th Annual Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival Callaway Gardens, Pine Mountain, Ga. Friday Night Balloon Glow. Watch beautiful balloons in flight or hop in a basket for your own tethered balloon ride. Saturday is filled with live music, beach activities, a Kids Zone, classic car show, disc dog demonstrations, a pyrotechnic skydiving demonstration, as well as a 5K Race and Triathlon event. Cap off the weekend with a final balloon glow Sunday night on Robin Lake Beach. www.callawaygardens.com. Sept. 2 Summer Sunset Music Series: Kyle Wilson Callaway Gardens. See August 5 for details. Sept. 3 Summer Sunset Music Series: Money Shot Callaway Gardens. See August 5 for details. Sept. 4 26th Annual Labor Day Celebration & Moon Pie Eatin’ Contest McCalla. 205-477-5711. Tannehill Ironworks Historical State Park--Featuring games, food and the moon pie eatin’ contest. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sept. 1, 8, 15 Friday On the Green Join us Friday evenings from 6:30 until 8:30 on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets, a picnic, your pup on a leash, and enjoy your fam and friends and music provided by local musicians. www.russellcrossroads.com. Sept. 1, 15 AUsome Amphibians & Reptiles Join the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center staff for a one-hour presentation on the AUsome amphibians and reptiles found in our state and beyond. Children and adults will enjoy this entertaining hands-on program with live animals. www.auburn.edu/preserve. Sept. 7 Lady Antebellum: You Look Good Tour with Kelsea Ballerini Oak Mountain Amp, B’ham. www.ticketmaster.com. Sept. 9 5K Run 4 Recovery and Uptown Promenade Columbus, Ga. Raising awareness and support for individuals living in recovery and celebrating their resiliency during National Recovery Month. Proceeds benefit New Horizons Behavioral Health in its Mission of Building Better Lives. 5K Run and 2.5K Walk on the beautiful Riverwalk. On-time entrants receive a t-shirt, SWAG Bag and Participant Medal. Sept. 12 Family Discovery Walk Explore the preserve and learn something new each month about plants, wildlife and nature with a trained naturalist who will offer your family fun opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and exercise! 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. For families with children ages 5 to 12. Free to the public. Info at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center at (334) 707-6512. Sept. 15 Homecoming Parade Downtown Auburn. Sponsored by AU Student Government Association. 4:00 p.m. www.auburn. edu.

Sept. 15 - 17 Fall Family Weekend 2017 Auburn Campus. An annual event that serves as an opportunity for parents and families of Auburn University students to attend campus activities during the fall semester. In addition to a tailgate hosted by the Office of Parent and Family programs, there will be many other opportunities for families to explore Auburn’s campus and community. The cost to attend is $20 per guest (plus a $2 processing fee) and Auburn University students may attend for free. www.auburn.edu. Sept. 16 Chris Stapleton Oak Mountain Amp, Bham. www.ticketmaster.com. Sept. 19 East Alabama Arts: Ballet Hispanico Opelika Center for the Performing Arts, Opelika. The Arts Association of East Alabama present BALLET HISPANICO at the Opelika Center For The Performing Arts. Under the artistic direction of Eduardo Vilaro, BALLET HISPANICO explores, preserves, and celebrates Latino cultures through dance. For more info, visit eastalabamaarts.org. Sept. 22 - 24 Disney On Ice presents Follow Your Heart Legacy Arena at The BJCC, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com. Sept. 23 Old 280 Boogie Standard Deluxe, Waverly. 11:00 a.m. Part music festival, part yard-party, this event draws fans twice a year to tiny Waverly. Music runs from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., with as many as six bands. The lineup is yet to be announced, but the Boogie has built a strong track record, with previous performers including Jason Isbell and Alabama Shakes before they began selling out far bigger venues. www.standarddeluxe. com. Sept. 26 Monthly Market Join Auburn Parks and Recreation as we partner with our local growers to host the APRD Monthly Market on the fourth Tuesday of each month beginning in September 2017! Visit the Harris Center from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. to find the best produce, jams, jellies and bounty of Lee County! Vendors will be set up in the lobby and Activity Room during warmer months to prevent products from becoming overheated and the Market may move outdoors in cooler months for space. This event is FREE and open to the public. www.auburnalabama.org/parks.

Ongoing Crape Myrtle Show Jasmine Hill, Wetumpka. July 1 - 30. Crape Myrtle show with magnificent trees covered with brilliant flowers throughout this 20-acre showplace. Open Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5:00 p.m. www. jasminehill.org. Summer Flower Show Jasmine Hill, Wetumpka. August 4 - 27. Enjoy new varieties of standard southern garden flowers located at the rim of the Wetumpka meteorite crater. Open Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5:00 p.m. www.jasminehill.org. Sasanqua Camellia Show Jasmine Hill, Wetumpka. Sept. 1 - 30. Enjoy early camellia varieties mixed with colorful beds of summer

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FamilyCalendar annuals. This “grandmother’s garden” will make you nostalgic as your stroll along native stone paths and see flowers in all directions. Open Fridays and Saturdays from 9:00 am to 5:00 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5:00 p.m. www.jasminehill.org. Discovery Hikes Explore the preserve and learn something new each month about plants, wildlife and nature with a trained naturalist who will offer your family fun opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and exercise! Discovery Hikes are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. For families with children ages 5 to 12. Free admission. Donations welcomed. Cancelled in the event of rain. Forest Ecology Preserve & Nature Center is located at 2222 N. College Street, Auburn, and is just north of the AU Fisheries complex. Expressions of a BraveHeart Program A fine arts program for teens and young adults with special needs (ages 11–21), sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation, utilizing Auburn University faculty and students, as well as community volunteers. Two 30-minute sessions of art, dance/ creative movement and music will be offered and participants will select 2 of the 3 classes. Expressions meets every 2nd and 4th Monday twice a month for 1.5 hours. Opelika Sportsplex, 334.705.5560. www. opelikasportsplex.com. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center Art Gallery Summer 2017 Exhibit: The Summer Invitational “Six by Six”. July 25 - Aug. 31. A group show of works by six artists and photographers. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn. www.auburnalabama.org. Youth Fitness / Homeschool PE Build your child’s confidence through activity and education. Certified Personal Trainer Megan Meisner provides individual or group classes that cover the importance of exercise, nutrition and a positive outlook. Contact Megan for more information or to schedule an initial assessment. Rates vary. Call 708341-3411 or megan.m.meisner@gmail.com Chick-fil-A Family Night at Tigertown Every Thursday night. Meditation Garden and Labyrinth Come and Find the Quiet Center... in the Meditation Garden and Labyrinth, provided as a community service by Village Christian Church, 700 East University Drive, (across from Auburn Early Ed.). 334-887-5111. Try the practice of walking meditation or simply sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. The garden and labyrinth are always open and guests are always welcome.

Performances Disney’s “Mary Poppins” Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Montgomery, July 6 - 23. The “practically perfect in every way” nanny returns to the ASF Festival Stage! Mary Poppins showcases some of the most memorable songs ever sung on the silver screen or stage including “Chim Chim Cher-ee,” “Jolly Holiday,” “A Spoonful of Sugar,” and “Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!” Recommended ages four and up. www.asf.net. Disney’s “Newsies” Red Mountain Theatre, Birmingham. July 7 - 30. When a charismatic newsboy dreams of a better life from the hardships of the streets, he takes on a powerful and corrupt establishment in a David-versus-Goliath struggle. Seize the day with the classic songs from Disney’s film, along with some new tunes for the stage. This high-energy performance is one you don’t want to miss! www. redmountaintheatre.org.

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

“The Dreamland Bus” Red Door Theatre, Union Springs. It is a charming, funny, deeply touching and life-affirming play about family and homecomings. Based upon the playwright’s family and his Southern up-bringing, the title reflects the words of his father, a Southern doctor, when the children were being put to bed – “it’s time to get on the dreamland bus.” July 27, 28, & 29 @ 7:30 with optional, pre-show, seated dinner and July 30 @ 2:30. (334) 7388687 or conecuhpeople@knology.net “Hairspray! the Broadway Musical” Prattville. Presented by Way Off Broadway. Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 2:00 p.m., through July 29. Performances will be held at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturday, July 29. Tickets are $12 in advance and $14 at the door, and can be purchased online at cc.prattvilleal.gov, or by calling 334-595-0854. For more information contact the Special Events Office or visit wobt.prattvilleal.gov. Monty Python’s “Spamalot” Aug. 4-6 and Aug. 10-13. Auburn Area Community Theatre Production. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn. Lovingly ripped off from the classic film comedy “Monty Python and the Holy Grail,” “Spamalot” retells the legend of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table, and features a bevy of showgirls, cows, killer rabbits and French people. Tickets go on sale July 30. To make reservations or purchase tickets, please visit www.auburnact.org. AACT’s reservation information line is (334) 332-0881. $15/Adults. $12/Students and Seniors. (786) 216-9870. “Once on this Island, Jr.” Red Mountain Theatre, Birmingham. July 28 - 30. With its poignant story and catchy Caribbean-flavored score, “Once on This Island Jr.” follows the story of Ti Moune, a peasant girl who rescues and falls in love with Daniel, a wealthy boy from the other side of her island. Through almost non-stop song and dance, Ti Moune sets out on a quest that will test the strength of her love against the powerful forces of prejudice, hatred, and even death. www.redmountaintheatre.org.

Alabama Mentor’s Foster Parent Training Classes Offered in the Opelika Auburn area. Call 334-705-8877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com. Auburn UMC Children’s Day Out Program Every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.–12 noon. $10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information. Auburn United Methodist Church. Auburn Mommies, a fun group of moms in the Auburn/Opelika area that meet weekly for playgroups and Mommy and Me walking twice a week. We also have a Mommies Night Out once a month. Http:// groups.yahoo.com/group/auburnmommiesinalabama/. Auburn Mommy and Me Big Dog Running Co, Auburn. 10–11 a.m. Social time, story time, music/movement, arts & crafts. Ages 9 months–3 years. Free! 334-209-2580. Auburn/Opelika MOPS Meetings are held the first and third Thursday of the month from 9-11:30. We meet September-May at Trinity United Methodist Church in Opelika. Yearly dues are $55 and childcare is provided for children 5 and under. Please check our Facebook page for information on play dates, Mom’s night out and other special events. https://www.facebook.com/AuburnOpelikaMOPS/. Bible Study Fellowship Held at Parkway Baptist Church, Thursdays at 10 a.m., (334) 546-1386. Bosom Buddies (a breast cancer support group) Meets at The Health Resource Center the first Thursday of the month at 6 p.m. (334) 528-1260. www.eamc.org.

“Peter Pan” The Cloverdale Playhouse, Montgomery. July 20 - 30. “Peter Pan” is the story of three siblings who follow Peter Pan and the fairy Tinker Bell into Neverland, where children never grow old. Captain Hook and his pirates, Tiger Lily and her tribe, mermaids, and a dozen other adventures await the children in this timeless tale of eternal youth. (334) 262-1530. “The Stinky Cheese Man” Springer Opera House, Columbus. July 21 - 23. Children’s Theatre Series. Though the characters may be familiar, each of your favorite storybook fables is uproariously derailed in this adaptation of Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith’s quintessential children’s book of fractured fairy tales. Everything from “Chicken Little” to “The Gingerbread Man” gets a complete makeover. www.springeroperahouse.org.

Support & Parenting Groups A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an all-inclusive support group open to all homeschool families in the Auburn/Opelika area regardless of differences in beliefs, cultures, nationality, race, religion, or method of home schooling. For more information call 334-728-1162 or email: momofpnk@gmail.com.

Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register. Caregiver Support Group Caring for a family member or friends can be rewarding, but it’s not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your parents, spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn ways to cope with every day stresses of caring for someone you love. Gain tools and resources to help you on your journey. This program is supported by the Opelika Sportsplex, LeeRussell Agency on Aging and HomeInstead Senior Care. This group is open to the public. Meets the last Monday of each month at 12:30 p.m. at Opelika Sportsplex AAC. Instructors are: Valeri White (Sportsplex), Bridgette Sager (Home Instead Senior Care), Lisa Askew (LeeRussell Council of Gov).

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FamilyCalendar Food Allergy Support of East Alabama The Food Allergy Support of East Alabama group offers support through the sharing of information and resources. We are also working to increase awareness of food allergies in the state of Alabama. Visit our website at www.foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334-826-3082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net. GRACE - Post-Abortive Support Group Women’s Hope Medical Clinic wants to help you! You are invited to take part in our GRACE abortion recovery group. This confidential group gives you the opportunity to process the grief of your termination in a safe and non-judgmental setting. If you would like more information about the times, dates and location for this group, call or e-mail Sherry at Women’s Hope: 334.502.7000 or sherry@womenshope.org Don’t let the regret of the past rob you of the joy in the future. Call us today. We are here to help. La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. @ Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, Airport Plaza, 323 Airport Road Suite E, Auburn. For more information call LLL of Auburn/Opelika, Leader, Josie Ettinger (h)334257-3950 or (c)334-740-8780. Lee County Parents of Chinese Children helps children understand, see and grow up with other families that look like their family (white parents/Asian child). The group is 100% free! We try to eat out at Asian establishments monthly and have playdates. Families that are waiting to adopt are welcome! We accept any families with adopted children from all Asian countries. Contact Melody at mmhilyer@bellsouth.net. Miracle League To volunteer or for more information, www.miraclefield. org or eamiracleleague@gmail.com.

MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids. New website is www.auburnmoms.com. MOPS of Auburn We meet the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at Auburn United Methodist Church from 9:30 - 11:30. Childcare is provided, although we ask that you make reservations if possible. Meetings are open to mothers with children ages 5 and under. www.facebook.com/ mopsofauburn mopsofauburn@gmail.com. Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974. Parent Educational Workshop - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy. 2nd Tuesday of each month, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika. Parent Support Group - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy meets the 1st Monday (unless national holiday), 9:00-11:00 a.m. and the next evening (Tuesday) from 6-7:30 p.m. Visit www.leecountyautism.com for complete information. Email info@leecountyautism.com or call 334-740-0716. Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama offers 2nd Saturdays, group classes, and more. Contact Penny Messer at 334-444-6827. Email smoea@bellsouth.net. Website www.smoea.vpweb.com or find us on facebook. Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job

preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@insideyfc.com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com. Therapeutic Foster Care Program Foster a Child’s Future Today - Become a Therapeutic Foster Parent! Certification classes are free. Please call Joanna Fisher Champagne at Lee County Youth Development Center’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program. (334) 749-2996, Ext. 311 You can make an eternal difference in a child’s life! Trinity UMC (Opelika) Mom’s Morning Out Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45–12. $15 per child, $5 each additional. Trinity United Methodist Church.

Sports Montgomery Biscuits Baseball July 19-23, 30-31. August 1-3, 10-14, 21-30. Auburn University Volleyball August 19, 29. Sept. 8, 9, 29. Auburn University Football Sept. 2, 16, 30. Auburn University Equestrian Sept. 23.

Please send your calendar events to Kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com!

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War for the Planet of the Apes

Despicable Me 3 MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA has rated Despicable Me 3 PG for action and rude humor. Gru, Lucy (voices of Steve Carell and Kristen Wiig) and their adorable daughters may be moviegoers’ new favorite family. And for good reason. The villain-turned-virtuous dad adopted three orphans and then married his secret agent sweetheart. While Gru got the fatherhood thing figured out in the previous movies, Lucy still hasn’t found her footing when it comes to life as a parent. Meanwhile the minions have had it with Gru’s good guy persona and set out on their own. However, their reformed boss is soon tempted to return to the dark side. The invitation comes from his twin Dru (voice also by Carell), a sibling Gru didn’t know he had. Dru, also a villain, wants Gru to join him in a heist that will bond them as brothers. For audiences, it may be impossible to find three cuter characters than Margo, Edith and Agnes. But despite their big eyes and winsome personalities, this isn’t an entirely kid-friendly film, especially for younger children. Like so many animations, this one is packed full of cartoon-style punches, scuffles, guns, rockets and explosions. The script also introduces a mammoth-sized robot intent on destroying Los Angeles. Fortunately, this sequel comes with some sweet life lessons about dealing with those grown-up concerns. (Even little Agnes choses to face disappointment with a positive attitude adjustment.) But the messages most likely to charm audience members are those about families, in all their configurations. Because nothing could be better than someone who has your back.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: AViolence: CSexual Content: A Profanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated War for the Planet of the Apes PG-13 for sequences of sci-fi violence and action, thematic elements, and disturbing images. What would you do if you felt like your family, friends and even your very species was threatened with annihilation? What risks would you be willing to take? What sacrifices would you be willing to make? All these questions come into play in this third chapter of the Planet of the Apes franchise. In Rise of the Planet of the Apes a well-intentioned scientist accidentally created a virus that increased the intelligence of simians, but killed many people. With the Dawn of the Planet of the Apes, the evolving primates established a society of their own, but ran into irreconcilable differences with their human neighbors. The conflict turns into a War for the Planet of the Apes as both groups struggle for survival. Caesar (Andy Serkis) is still leader of the primate population. His efforts to rally the troops to protect their women and children, as well as carve out a place for their kind, are at odds with the goals of The Colonel (Woody Harrelson), who commands an army of human soldiers intent on genocide. Not your average sci-fi/action movie, War For the Planet of the Apes will expect you to think deeply. Borrowing a few themes from biblical characters (Christ and Moses), and displaying tenacity of spirit, this script may cause viewers to do a little soul searching while reflecting on the best and the worst of human nature.

Spider-Man: Homecoming

Kong: Skull Island (Rental)

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: BProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: B The MPAA has rated Spider-Man: Homecoming PG-13 for sci-fi action violence, some language and brief suggestive comments. Launching another version of this well-loved icon is a bit of a gamble because there is lots of room for disappointment from unsatisfied fans. But in the case, the risk pays off. We were briefly introduced to the young Peter Parker (Tom Holland) who already has his “spidey” powers in Captain America: Civil War, so this film wastes no time with backstory. The story plunges into the teen’s struggle to balance his time between school, family and stopping crime. We meet his friends and classmates, and these relationships form the core of the movie and add greatly to its humor. More than anything, Peter wants to reach his Spider-Man potential, and is impatiently waiting to be part of the Avengers team. Yet his mentor Tony Stark (Iron Man), as well as the other superheroes, feel the lad still has a lot of growing up to do. Frustrated, Peter wants to show them they are wrong, so he continually seeks out more and more dangerous situations in the hope of proving what he is made of. Rather than making that point, the fledgling champion soon discovers that having superpowers doesn’t necessary mean you are invincible. And it is this realization that sparks Peter’s journey to develop the discipline and maturity needed to help protect those he loves.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: D+ Sexual Content: B Profanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated Kong: Skull Island PG-13 for intense sequences of sci-fi violence and action, and for brief strong language. It’s 1973 and the Vietnam War has just ended. It appears mankind has claimed every last spec of the world. But Bill Randa (John Goodman) believes there is still something on the globe we don’t know about. When NASA’s first global mapping satellite discovers an unchartered landmass, the firm believer in monsters is convinced the curious locale holds a big secret. Cloaked and surrounded by a continual storm that has mysteriously claimed a variety of ships over the centuries, the army calls upon Colonel Preston Packard (Samuel L. Jackson) to head up the expedition to the island. To its credit, this movie reveals its monster early in the game. Purported to be the biggest Kong ever to grace the silver screen, the digital creature is imposing and protective of his natural habitat. However, the secrets this island holds go far beyond the giant ape. With the body count quickly climbing, and Randa’s ulterior motives revealed, Packard initiates a power play and divides the group between those who want to kill anything that could pose danger to the outside world and those who fear disturbing the unique ecosystem could create even greater problems. This conflict applies to much of our decisions today as humans attempt to play the god of this world, determining what lives and what dies.

Auburn Opelika Parents I August 2017

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ALABAMA’S HIGH SCHOOL Succeed at a high school where learning comes first. Find out how the Alabama School of Math and Science can lead you on a path to success. ASMS is our state’s only fully public, residential high school for highly motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities. Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your online application September 1, 2017 at www.asms.net.

Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. The 2017 senior class earned $13 million in merit-based scholarships and scored a composite 29.5 on the ACT, the highest in the school’s history. More than half of the graduates scored above 30. Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604 251.441.2100 - www.asms.net admissions@asms.net

Recommended Vaccines Child Care Centers (by 12 Months of Age)

Kindergarten through 5th Grade

6th through 12th Grade

DTaP

IPV

MMR

Varicella

2**

Hib

PCV

Tdap

Rota

Hep A

HepB

HPV

MCV

Prior to entering all Alabama schools and child care centers, each child must submit an up-to-date Certificate of Immunization. *Code of Alabama ยง16-30-4 **1 dose for <13 years of age or 2 doses for >13 years of age

For more information, visit adph.org/immunization or facebook.com/AlabamaImmunizationInfo IMM.VaccinesAd.060717.indd 1

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