Auburn-Opelika Parents August 2012

Kumon Math & Reading Auburn-Opelika Flint’s Crossing across from the mall 1550 Opelika Rd. Suite 9/10, Auburn, AL 36830 334-501-8586 www.kumon.com/AUBURN-OPELIKA www.facebook.com/kumonofauburnopelika www.FACEBOOK.com/kumon of auburn

Contents August 2012 Volume 3 Number 6

Features 30 7 Tips for Procrastinating Kids

Find simple suggestions to increase productivity and reduce nagging!

34 Ready? Set... School!

Get ready for the best year yet with this easy 10-step plan.

36 After School Activities Guide

Sign ups for after school activities are underway. Our list will guide you to local learning and fun for your children!

Columns 2 From One Parent to Another Kendra Sumner

4 Get This!

Paige Gardner Smith

5 Living With Children

On The Cover

John Rosemond, Ph.D.

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Departments 6 Bits and Pieces

Kids Health

12 School Bits

Richard Freeman, M.D.

28 A Page in a Book

42 Family Calendar

Paige Gardner Smith

32 Crafting & Cooking w/ Kids

48 Parent Previews

Dana Moonan

33 Dave Says Dave Ramsey

47 Parenting on the Plains Polly Dunn, Ph.D.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Victor and Monica Gutierrez are the proud parents of the ‘Ya-Ya Sisters’, Maliya (8), Saneya (7) and Anaiya (4), of Auburn. The girls are ready to go back to school at Wrights Mill Road and Growing Room. Maliya and Saneya enjoy singing, dancing, playing soccer, softball, gymnastics and cheerleading. Their little sister, Anaiya, loves to keep up with them and says her BFF is Aubie. War Eagle!

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Auburn-Opelika Parents 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 deanne@auburnopelikaparents.com

Associate Editor Kelly Watson

Director of Sales Justin Sumner justin@auburnopelikaparents.com or (334) 209-0552

Contributing Writers Lynn Caggiano, M.A. Polly Dunn, Ph.D. Richard Freeman, M.D. Dana Moonan Dave Ramsey Michele Ranard, M.Ed. John Rosemond Paige Gardner Smith Wes Stubblefield, M.D.

Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

President Jason Watson jason@auburnopelikaparents.com

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 1204 Owens Road Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303.

Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2012

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.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

From One Parent to Another...

Who do you think is more excited about an extra couple of weeks this summer...the kids or me? I am as giddy as a school girl about the back-to-school date being pushed to August 20th! Of course, the kids are thrilled, too, and have already planned out their last weeks of extended summer break with activities, sleepovers and a last minute run to the Gulf! Who am I to argue with such well thought out plans! This summer, we have been blessed with more time for the kids to play, explore, and spend time just being kids. I am grateful for the extra time, too! Not only for the fun, but I have been given more planning days to get the kids ‘back-to-school ready’. Just thinking about buying all the school supplies, clothes and backpacks makes me anxious. Not to mention the schedule adjustments from sleeping in to those early morning, hustle-and-bustle routines. This fall, I will have three children going to school and that means triple the amount of gear and hustle. I guess I am going to require triple the amount of coffee in the mornings!

I don’t know about you, but I look forward to the ‘Tax-Free Shopping Weekend’ to get most of my list checked off. The holiday begins at 12:01 a.m. Friday, August 3, and ends at midnight Sunday, August 5, so mark your calendars. Items that can be purchased include most clothing, school uniforms, shoes, school supplies, computers, printers and even some books. For an quick reference list, log online at www. alabamaretail.org/alabamasalestaxholiday and go shopping and save big.

With the ‘first day of school’ outfit picked and backpacks stuffed with sharpened pencils and notebooks, the real planning for a great school year begins. In the article, Ready? Set... School, the author gives some great tips for helping our children start the school year off right. One is to be on the school “team”. I can so relate to this. For me, I enjoy being my kids’ classroom mom and serving on the PTO each year. Not only do I get the joy of being involved in the classroom and school events all year, but it allows me to be part of the team. My children see that it is important to me to stay connected and be helpful to their school, as well as their teachers, who have my 100% support and encouragement. Of course, there can’t be 30 or more room parents per classroom, so for most, just staying in contact with teachers, showing support in the education process and keeping that ‘school-to-home’ partnership at the forefront can be one of the best tools for this year’s success.

Another tip given is to keep your child well-rounded by letting them have some relaxed time during the school year. Along with academics, the need to play and nurture hobbies or talents is part of the learning year. For my children, dance, karate and the ball field have been the highlights of their afternoons. It not only feeds their passions, but also gives them a chance to relax after school and be social with friends. As with all things, a balance is necessary as to not put too much in their daily routines so that it becomes stressful to all. To help find an outlet, program or activity for your child, included this month is our 2012 After School Activities Guide. You will find music, art, sports, and even local after-school programs that will help you check off more of your school year to-do list.

Let’s look at these extra few weeks as a gift. Not only for more summer fun, but also as a time to plan for the best school year ever. When that first bell rings, we will all be ready!

Kendra

Kendra Sumner, Publisher

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Kids Dig Dinosaurs

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

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Dinosaurs may have been gone from this earth for millions of years, but they remain one of the most compelling natural history interests among young children. For extinct creatures that have never been seen by human eyes, with only fossils left behind to tell their story, it’s sometime surprising that dinosaurs none-the-less captivate the imagination and interest of almost every child. Even children who can’t yet tell the difference between a bird and a bat, can almost certainly enlighten adults about the finer differences between Apatosaurus and Brachiosaurus. The following toys and games will help you feed the young dinosaur authority new information and experiences on these prehistoric animals!

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by Paige Gardner Smith

Velociraptor & Pterosaur Construction Set

Dino Excavation Kit: Stegosaurus Skeleton

Just like our knowledge of dinosaurs grew from solving the puzzle of pieces left behind, the Bloco Dinosaur Construction Kits helps kids build their understanding of these prehistoric animals as they construct their own models. Using 125 high-density foam construction pieces, 35 connectors and detailed instructions, young hands can assemble two dinosaurs, a Velociraptor and a Pterosaur. This fun and educational kid builds both fine motor skills in young hands and fine dinosaur models for showing off at home or at school!

Embedded in a gritty block of gypsum, the Dino Excavation Kit hides a complete Stegosaurus skeleton, just waiting for small hands to reveal it.

Using the same dedication and patience required from real dinosaur hunters, and using similar tools (hammer and chisel included in the kit), kids can carefully chip away the sandy matrix to slowly release T-Rex bones. Once the bones are cleared, they assemble to produce a true replica of the distinctly different Stegosaurus. The kit includes a colorful booklet that will fill in the chinks in every young paleontologist’s education.

(Bloco)

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(Geoworld)

Schleich Dinosaurs

T-Rexcavator

With a reputation for accurate sculpting of high quality toys, Schleich’s new line of dinosaurs offer some of the best rendered examples of affordable dinosaur toys on the market.

Sculpted in close cooperation with the Humboldt University in Berlin and developed with the assistance of parents and teachers, Schleich dinosaur replicas are sturdy, meticulously hand-painted and come with educational booklets that expand any child’s knowledge of these extinct marvels. Dino-obsessed kids are too smart to fool with cheap and inaccurate dino toy knock-offs. Young collectors will get the best satisfaction from Schleich’s dinosaurs.

Just like in the real world of paleontology field work, digging for dinosaurs requires a good eye, steady hand and patience when removing bones from the matrix. The T-Rexcavator game will help cultivate these traits in every budding dinosaur hunter as players test their skill to see who can carefully tweeze bones from the board. The challenge is to avoid touching the sides during removal or you will trigger a dinosaur’s roar (reminiscent of the classic game ‘Operation’). Including 12 bone excavation cards and 36 dinosaur trivia cards, T-Rexcavator is a fun preview of some useful skills that will come in handy on a real bone hunt!

(Schleich)

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ity ag no pe op

(Uncle Milton)

Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Living With Children

By John Rosemond

High Self-Esteem Doesn’t Live Up to Its Hype Q:

I recently heard you speak in San Diego and need some clarification. While I understand that researchers have found that high selfesteem is not what it was cracked up to be, I want my kids to approach the challenges of life with confidence in their abilities. There’s got to be a reconciliation point here. What is it?

A:

Excellent question! First, researchers have indeed found that high self-esteem doesn’t live up to its hype. In fact, it’s not a desirable characteristic at all.

The general finding has been that people with high regard for themselves have equally low regard for others. Yes, they feel really good about themselves (the sales pitch), but they tend to be seriously lacking in sensitivity to anyone else.

The desirable attribute is humility. That was known thousands of years ago, proving once again that there is nothing new under the sun. Humble people pay attention to others, look for opportunities to serve, and are modest

when it comes to their accomplishments. People with high self-esteem want attention, expect others to do things for them, and tend to crow about their achievements.

Where confidence is concerned, there is no evidence to suggest that humble and confident are incompatible.

By all accounts, George Washington was a very humble man who was more than a tad uncomfortable in the spotlight he’d been thrust into. Yet without the unwavering confidence he brought to his mission, the United States of America might not exist.

Researchers have discovered that people with high self-esteem tend to overestimate their abilities. If anything, they are over-confident. As a result, they don’t cope well when life deals them a bad hand or their performance doesn’t live up to their self-expectations. For those reasons, they are highly prone to depression. Because they believe anything they do is deserving of reward, they also tend to underperform. Ironic, since high self-esteem was promoted as the key to happiness and academic success.

As has been known for millennia, the key to a sense of personal satisfac-

tion (not the same as happiness, by the way) and the feeling that one has made and is making an important contribution (not the same as the contemporary concept of success, by the way) is hard work and a solid platform of good values—the centerpiece of which is high regard for others. Note that the primary beneficiary in that equation is one’s fellow traveler, not oneself. In short, the key to the good life is putting others first. Call that the Good Neighbor Principle.

Society is strengthened and culture is moved forward by the efforts of people who think of others before they think of themselves, not by people who think they are the cat’s meow. In that regard, one of the most foreboding things about contemporary American culture is that today’s young people regard the narcissistic, self-promoting celebrity as more of a role model than George Washington or Abraham Lincoln.

That, in fact, may be our ultimate undoing.

Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond. com.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

bits & pieces "Battle It Out Blade" Benefit Concert at Municipal Park

Join us for a benefit concert, July 29, for a local boy with Leukemia. The event is from 3-9 p.m. at Municipal Park, in Opelika. The concert is free and based on donations in hopes to raise money to help the family with Blade's medical expenses. For any further information, please contact Vicki Seton. 334.534.9140.

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14th Annual Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival

Spend Labor Day Weekend, August 31-September 2, watching the sky fill with color at our 14th Annual Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival at Callaway Gardens in Pine Mountain, Ga. This festive weekend is highlighted by the extraordinary balloon glow at Robin Lake Beach on Friday evening and balloon flights on Saturday and Sunday in the morning and evening. Between balloon launches, the days are filled with entertainment, family activities, exhibits, music and more.

Don’t miss the last weekend Robin Lake Beach is open for the season! www.callawaygardens.org.

Back to School Ice Cream Social

Free Outdoor Movie!

Kids ages 5-12 years are invited to cool off and bid summer goodbye on August 3rd at the Covington Recreation Center in Opelika. Join us from 1:00-2:00 p.m. and decorate sundaes. Fee $5. 705-5560.

Mark your Family Fun Calendar for July 27! Join Auburn Parks and Recreation for a Free Outdoor Movie: "Back to the Future".

Bring your blankets and chairs to Duck Samford Park, Field 1, Auburn. Movies begin 15 minutes after sunset (approximately 8:30 p.m.). 501-2930.

3rd Annual Farewell Summer Block Party Sponsored by Chick-fil-A

Farewell to Summer is sponsored by Chick-fil-A Magnolia. Enjoy a free concert, August 2nd, 6:00 p.m. at Town Creek Park, in Auburn. There will also be food on-site to purchase from Chick-fil-A on Magnolia Avenue, enter for a chance to win door prizes, and pick up coupons and sales tax holiday weekend specials.

The first 300 people in attendance will receive coupons and specials from Auburn merchants. Limit one bag per family. Attendees will also have a chance to enter to win door prizes, courtesy of the Auburn Chamber of Commerce.

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The Dragons Return! Dragon Boat Race and Festival

Join a team or come watch the race...August 25! Riverfront Park in Montgomery will be the site for this year's race and festival. The festival raises public awareness and funding to support two local charities, Bridge Builders速 Alabama and Rebuilding Together速 Central Alabama. www.montgomerydragonboat.org.

2012 JCSM Membership Week August 11-17 Become a member or renew your membership to experience the world of art Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art brings to Auburn. Fun week for the whole family! www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

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Enjoy two free performances by the Alabama Dance Theater.

Bring your lawn chairs and blanket to the Riverwalk Amphitheater in downtown Montgomery, August 5-6 at 7:30 p.m. For more information visit www. alabamadancetheatre.com.

Day, Night, Weekends, Anytime

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Stars on the Riverfront

Pla n Ahea d for your Auburn Weekends!

Call for References a nd Rates

334-209-0866 d jr1228@yahoo.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

bits & pieces "Back To School" Sales Tax Holiday: August 3-5

Beginning at 12:01 a.m. (CST) on Friday August 3, and ending at midnight on Sunday August 5, Alabama will hold its seventh annual sales tax holiday giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, and clothing free of state sales or use tax. Local sales and use tax may apply. For more info334-242-1490 or 866-576-6531; For a list of exempt items visit www.revenue.alabama.gov/salestax.

Help Stuff the Bus with Needed School Supplies

United Way of Lee County, Inc. invites you to help provide school supplies for local children in need, on Saturday, August 4 from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. at Tiger Town Shopping Center. School supplies donated will be evenly distributed to Auburn City Schools, Lee County Schools, and Opelika City Schools for children in need.

If you can’t join us on August 4th, we will have drop off bins located at Auburn/Opelika Chambers and Regions Banks Monday, July 9th Monday, August 6th. Please contact the United Way of Lee County if you have any questions. (334) 745-5540. unitedway@unitedwayofleecounty.com.

SEEDSofLEARNING!

Planting the

Technology program for ages 1 & up Infants through School-Age

Solid Rubber Playground Surface reduces injuries

Care available from 6:30a.m. to 6:30p.m.

Our Character Education program teaches values

Transportation available to most Auburn schools

Healthy menu with fresh fruit and whole grain foods Sign Language for all ages

644 North Dean Road, Auburn, AL 334.501.2044

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Lower Child:Teacher ratios Video monitoring in all classrooms Infant curriculum customized for your baby

Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Enroll For The Now School New Year!

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Kids Heal h

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Vitamin D...Revisited

For thousands of years, Vitamin D (cholecalciterol) was only available for humans by the action of ultraviolet (UV) B rays from sunshine exposure of the skin. However, for the last several decades, Vitamin D has been added to milk, juices and other foods as well as prepared in tablet or gel capsule form. Everyone needs adequate blood levels of Vitamin D. Unfortunately, a very high percentage of the population of the United States, especially those living north of the latitude running through Atlanta, are Vitamin D deficient. The small amounts added to milk, juices and multivitamins is not enough to produce adequate blood levels.

Now that summer break will soon be over for school children, they will be confined, for the most part, to an inside existence.

No more significant exposure to sunlight.

This means that any levels of Vitamin D in the body brought about by sun exposure will begin a gradual decline. In fact, nearly 60 million American children and teens, 70% of the entire youth population, may have less than sufficient levels of Vitamin D. And one in seven teenagers is now walking around in a totally deficient state.

The basic cause of this deficiency is inadequate exposure to sunlight. Think about it.

Everyone is inside most of the day, especially from 10 a.m. until 3 p.m., the time when most of the UV that generates Vitamin D in the skin is available. The atmosphere filters out most of the ultraviolet B (UVB) rays in the early mornings and late afternoons.

So, why do we need Vitamin D? Most

everyone probably knows that Vitamin D is essential for normal bone growth and development. However, Vitamin D also has other functions in addition to calcium metabolism.

It protects bone strength and reduces risk of falling and risk of fractures. Here are some significant functions of Vitamin D: 1. Protects the brain. Low levels of Vitamin D can cause attention, memory and reasoning problems.

2. Protects the heart. Low levels of Vitamin D have been shown to be an independent risk factor for heart attack, congestive heart failure and stroke.

3. Protects against Parkinson’s disease. Low levels of Vitamin D increased risk and higher levels protected against the disease.

4. Protects against depression. Low levels increase risk of depression and mood disorders.

5. Protects against Multiple Sclerosis. Low levels in infancy and childhood significantly increase risk of Multiple Sclerosis. Important: the protection (normal levels of Vitamin D) must be acquired at an early age to decrease risk of Multiple Sclerosis.

6. Protection against autoimmune disorders such as Type I Diabetes, (insulin dependent).

Low levels of Vitamin D in the Finnish population due to very little sunlight significantly increased the risk of Type 1 Diabetes. Infants who were given a Vitamin D supplement of 2000 IU/day during the first year of life had a nearly 80% reduced risk of developing Type 1 diabetes in Finland.

Dr. Michael F. Holick, Ph.D, M.D. author of The Vitamin D Solution recommends:

1. All infants should receive a minimum of 400-1,000 IU/daily, maximum 2000 IU 2. Children 1-12 should also receive at least1000-2000 IU daily, maximum 5000 IU 3. 13 years + should receive at least 1500 to 2000 IU daily, maximum 10,000 IU 4. Obese individuals, 2-3 times the above recommendations 5. Pregnant women – 1400-2000 IU/daily, maximum 10,000 6. Lactating women – 2000-4000 IU/daily, maximum 10,000 7. Women who are breastfeeding and want their infants to get sufficient Vitamin D in breast milk should take 4000-6000 IU/daily Vitamin D levels can be determined by a blood test. Ideally, levels of 25-OH (24 hydroxy) Vitamin D should be above 30 nanograms per milliliter. Insufficiency levels are 20-30 and significant deficiency levels are less than 20 nanograms per milliliter.

Dr. Richard Freeman completed medical school in 1973 and started in private practice in 1975 in Opelika, before practicing in Auburn.

Dr. Freeman has served as Vice President and Secretary-Treasurer for the Medical Association for the State of Alabama, was a member of the Medicaid DUR Board, member of the Medicaid Pharmacy and Therapeutic Board and is on the Board of Medical Examiners for the State of Alabama. He is married to Sherry Spann Freeman and they have two children and six grandchildren.

www.AuburnPediatricAssociates.com Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

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Auburn Foot Care Center 785 N Dean Rd # 100 (334) 466-1401 www.brettstarkdpm.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

It’s hard to believe that students are stocking up on school supplies and teachers are getting their classrooms ready to begin a new school year. The summer has been busy with many activities including summer school, summer camps and enrichment activities within the Opelika City Schools and in the community. Just before school ended in May, all of our elementary schools received new computers and monitors in each classroom. These new computers replaced older units and will be much more efficient for the teachers and the students. The new computers, paired with the Promethean boards, tablets, projectors and document cameras in our classrooms K-12, equip our students with a wealth of technology to enhance their learning environment.

Our most noticeable project over the summer has been the construction and renovation on the campus of Opelika High School. Just before school ended in May, the portable classrooms were installed and are now ready for occupancy. The front parking lot is also in the process of being reconstructed. The newly redesigned parking lot will have more spaces and will be complete by the first day of school. In the back section of the campus, a new temporary kitchen has been built and the south side of the building has been demolished. There will be a temporary divider wall down the middle of Mainstreet so that construction will be continuing on one side of the while students attend class on the other side of the wall.

The timeline of the construction and renovation at OHS will include demolition of all sections of the original metal building. New construction will replace those areas and will be incorporated into the existing structures such as the Performing Arts Center, the Sports Arena, the Media Center and the Science Wing. We are extremely excited about this two-year project and know that OHS will be a source of pride for our students and for the community. We truly appreciate the patience of our employees, students and families during the construction.

As you count down your last few days of summer, know that our faculty and staff members are working diligently to prepare for a great school year. Thank you for your support of our schools and allowing us to work with your children each day.

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Sincerely, Mark D. Neighbors, Superintendent Opelika City Schools

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• H ORSEBACK R IDING • S WIMMING • T ENNIS • C ANOEING • D ANCE • A EROBICS • G YMNASTICS • B EACH V OLLEYBALL •

We don’t wonder anymore how it happened, that one summer could bring such happy memories.

New friends are now best friends. New experiences are now the best times ever. No wonder it’s so easy to tell others about it and include them in the fun.

B ASKETBALL • S OCCER • A RTS

Welcome to Riverview Camp for Girls!

We’ve do put Itogether everything you’re looking for in a perfect“I saw camp onemy of Why choose Riverview each summer? mysetting! first river Recognized on a mountain,as I rode Golf,times Dance, Dance, Outdoor Sports, Soccer,use Beach Volleyball, Basketball, “As go,Stomp it was one of the BEST.”Skills AndClass, what child couldn’t some of that these days?

Riverview Refinement, Program, Campfires night,Recognized optional trips and more!

We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16...

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Southeast’s best all-around for girls,IRiverview annew oasis of fun, friends andThe happiness...

I Exciting felt safe and secure. Iinclude: gained confidence in myselfPool,Tennis, through the world around me.” activities Riding, Heated Canoeing, Ropes Course, Climbing Tower,

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Sincerely, Karen T. DeLano, Superintendent Auburn City Schools

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Dear Students, Family and Community Members, Welcome to the 2012-2013 scholastic school year for the Auburn City Schools. This summer, administrators, teachers, and staff members has spent this summer diligently preparing for a successful beginning of an excellent scholastic year. This includes many hours of continuing education for the adults, summer school for students, facility maintenance, hiring of employees, purchasing of new instructional materials, and enrollment of new students.

The school district welcomes our new community members and families. The City of Auburn continues to grow and flourish during touch economic times. Each of the ten schools will be ready with open arms to receive the new students and welcome back those returning. It is our mission to inspire all students to achieve their potential; educate all students to use and evaluate knowledge; and empower all students to be responsible, productive citizens.

I am honored to serve as the superintendent of Auburn City Schools and have enjoyed meeting many of you this summer. This school district has a long-standing record of excellence. Partnerships with families, businesses, community organizations, and Auburn University will continue to assist our schools in providing quality education. I look forward to being a participant in this most important endeavor.

This year, the system will be developing a five year strategic plan. Please watch for more information in the future on how you can be involved in this process. There will be many opportunities for you to serve as we plan for taking the school system from great to greater.

Back to school information can be found at www.auburnshcools.org or by calling you school office.

FLAG TWIRLING • CHEERLEADING • RIFLERY • ARCHERY • TRIP DAY • GOLF

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• R OPES C OURSE • C LIMBING T OWER • O UTDOOR L IVING S KILLS • C AMPFIRE F UN • C OUNSELOR -I N -T RAINING •

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

D Morris Avenue DAR Contestants Place at State, Southeast Levels

In Junior American Citizen Short Story Contest, Morris Avenue Intermediate School's Desiree Penn won first place in the chapter, state and Southeast contests and second place in the national contest. Gabrielle Whack, also a student at Morris Avenue, won first place in the chapter and state contests and second place in the Southeast contest. The students received a cash award, the “Book of Presidents” from the local chapter and award certificates. Pictured are Jessica Battle, Morris Avenue Intermediate School teacher; Linda Shabo, regent, Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter; Desiree Penn; Kathy Penton, regent, Martha Wayles Jefferson DAR Chapter; Gabrielle Whack; Heather Clark, Morris Avenue teacher; and Nino Mason, Morris Avenue principal.

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Students Attend Citizens Workshop at Drake Middle School

A group of eleven 7th and 8th grade boys at Drake Middle School in Auburn participated in a “Students as Citizens” workshop, thanks to teachers Angela Babb and Sheena Bell and interns Ashley and Katelynn. We believe students must learn the arts of citizenship–listening, collaboration, deliberative decision-making, etc.—since being a citizen requires more than voting.

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Dean Road Ceramics Day in Clay

Abigail (age 5) and Whitnie Helms work as a mother-daughter team to create a ceramic tray at the 3rd Annual Day in Clay, hosted by Auburn Parks and Recreation, at the Dean Road Ceramics Studio on Saturday, June 23 from 1 – 4 p.m. The annual open house offers citizens a free tour and demonstrations at the Ceramics Studio. For a small fee, participants may choose to create a unique ceramics project. The Dean Road Ceramics Studio offers classes for all ages and studio memberships year-round. For more information on the programs offered, visit www.auburnalabama.org/ceramics.

Happy 50th Birthday Wrights Mill Road

WSFA's Jeff Shear wishes Wrights Mill Road elementary school a happy 50th birthday!

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Surprise Visit By Aubie

The Women’s Philanthropy Board, in Auburn University’s College of Human Sciences, teamed up with the Early Learning Center in the Department of Human Development and Family Studies and Wrights Mill Road to host Camp iCare 2012. Through Camp iCare, campers explore themes of financial and philanthropic stewardship and leadership using modern day communication techniques. Included in the camp are field trips and special guests. Look who showed up to surprise the campers....Auburn mascot, Aubie!

Tea Held in Honor of Distinguished Young Women of Lee County

Distinguished Young Women of Lee County participants and their mothers enjoyed a morning of tea at the home of board member Julie Perryman. The board hosted a tea honoring the participants of the 2013 Distinguished Young Women of Lee County the morning of June 23. Sara Caitlyn Godwin, 2012 Distinguished Young Woman of Lee County, was among the honored guests at the tea wishing each participant good luck and many words of encouragement.

Miss Godwin will be attending Auburn University as a freshman in the fall. The ladies are involved in a busy schedule of events leading to the program August 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the Auburn High School Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $10 a person and may be purchased by any participant or at the door the evening of the program.

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AHS Teacher Awarded Teacher/Program of the Year Award

Governor Robert Bentley and State Superintendent Thomas Bice delivered the keynote address at the 2012 Alabama Career and Technical Education Professional Development Conference Opening General Session on Tuesday, June 12, at the BirminghamJefferson Convention Center. Laurie Daniel Osborne, Auburn High Health Science Teacher, was selected as the Alabama Career and Technical Teacher/Program of the Year 2012 during the session. Auburn High School's Health Science Program received a check for $5,000 from Alabama's State Career and Technical Director Philip Cleveland. Laurie Osborne began her teaching career in 2004 in Chambers County and has taught Health Science at Auburn High School since 2006. Laurie is a Registered Nurse and also has a Master's Degree in Career and Technical Education. Additionally, she is certified as a Health Care Provider CPR instructor for the American Heart Association. Laurie is excited to bring high level health science topics to a high school classroom in order to help students develop an understanding of various medical concepts and related careers, as well as help the students create critical thinking skills that will allow the students to become successful upon graduation from high school.

Throughout the Health Science Program students explore various health careers and health science concepts through laboratories, project based activities, collaborative investigation, and clinical internships at various health care facilities in Lee County. Students enrolled in the Health Science Internship class complete a sixteen week clinical rotation through various departments at East Alabama Medical Center. Students observe various medical procedures including surgery, childbirth and physical therapy. After completing the Internship class, students are eligible to apply for the Earn and Learn Program at East Alabama Medical Center during their senior year of high school. The student is employed part time by East Alabama Medical Center and is eligible for full time employment after completing the 5 month program. Pictured left to right: State Superintendent, Thomas Bice, Laurie Daniel Osborne, and State Career and Technical Director, Philip Cleveland.

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Opelika Cheerleaders Attend UCA Cheer Camp in Panama City Beach

The Opelika High School Varsity, Junior Varsity and Middle School Cheerleaders attended the 2012 UCA Cheer Camp at Edgewater Resort in Panama City Beach, Florida that was held June 11-14. Over 550 cheerleaders participated in the event and competed for many awards. The OHS Varsity squad won 2nd place in Home Pom and 3rd place in Camp Champ-Cheer. Martevia Bledsoe, an OHS Senior, won the “Jump Off” for the second year in a row.

UCA All American Winners included: Martevia Bledsoe, Cayla Driver, Carami Garrett, Dasjah Lilly, Kaitlyn Aucoin (“Ope”) and Ashley Thomas (“Lika”). In addition to being named an All American, OHS Senior, Cayla Driver was asked to try out for UCA staff for the following year. The OHS Varsity, mascots “Ope” and “Lika” won the “Tradition Award” which is given to schools and mascots who are recognized for who they are and what they represent and who show their school spirit with pride and honor.

Superior Ribbons and Spirit Sticks were also given to the Varsity squad each day. The OHS Junior Varsity squad placed 3rd in Home Pom, 3rd in Camp Champ-Extreme Routine and 1st in Camp Champ-Cheer. Keneisha Foreman, an OHS Sophomore, was named UCA All American. The Opelika Middle School cheerleaders won 3rd in Home Pom, 1st in Camp Champ-Cheer and Anna Hegwood, an OMS 8th grader, was named UCA All American. Both the JV and OMS squads also won Superior Ribbons and a Spirit Stick each Day.

OMS Mighty Fighters Awarded Spirit of Relay Trophy

At the 2012 Relay for Life event, the Mighty Fighters from Opelika Middle School were awarded the Spirit of Relay trophy. This award is given to one team each year whose enthusiasm, participation, t-shirt design, campsite and activities embody the heart of Relay.

Out of 69 teams, the Mighty Fighters were chosen as the winner. The Mighty Fighters had several members who "relayed" all night and as a team they raised over $2,000. Members of the team included (pictured l-r): Sarah Brewer, Mackenzie Dukes, Kayla Smith, Georgia White, Emma Grace Scullen, Olivia Leonard and Anna Hegwood.

Local Students Win Medals at National History Day Competition

Katie Kirk and Heather Connelly won a bronze medal for their Senior Group Performance at National History Day competition at the University of Maryland June 13. Other local students qualifying for Nationals this year included William Wehrs with his Senior Website, and Anna Kirk, Sarah Kirk, Kaitlin Connelly and Jessica Connelly with a Junior Documentary. Over a half a million students each year in every state compete in levels of history competition with projects that are the result of months of study and research. For more information about National History Day, visit www.nhd.org.

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Princess for the Summer

Ballet buddies enjoy learning about ballet and feeling like princesses. Nix Dance Studio offers a summer V.I.P. (Very Important Princess) program for beginners to experience what the world of ballet would be like.

Pictured are Taylor and Merrill.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Summer at Camp Marannook

Summer would not be complete without a trip to camp and a splash in the pool.

Auburn and Opelika students enjoyed their week at camp, making new friends, playing games, playing in the pool and learning about God's love!

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Cary Woods Elementary School Kid-Friendly Food Drive

Thanks to the students and this year's Student Council Representatives for a huge success in collecting KidFriendly Food for the Food Bank of East Alabama. The students had so much fun collecting food items that will benefit children in our area throughout the summer break.

Items included mac and cheese, soup, peanut butter and jelly, noodles and much more!

Lakeview Baptist Church Celebrates Another Successful VBS

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Under the leadership of Mrs. Patty Chance, students, volunteers and families enjoyed another VBS summer of fun! This year's theme was "Amazing Wonders Aviation" where Lakeview Baptist watched amazing things happen as kids encountered God like never before—all against the backdrop of some of the world's most marvelous natural wonders. Hope to see you again next summer!

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Auburn Accounting Students Teach Money Smarts at Drake Middle School

Auburn’s Drake Middle School held their first Financial Literacy Fair on Thursday, April 19. The Fair was created by Drake Language Arts teacher and drama club advisor, Dr. Silvia Scaife and Auburn University accounting professor Dr. Sarah Stanwick. Benjamin Bankes, the icon of the American Institute of CPAs’ Feed the Pig campaign, made a surprise appearance late in the afternoon.

The concept was awesome in its simplicity. Invite all 600+ sixth graders at Drake to learn specific money management skills at 22 stations, earning prizes along the way. The stations had events such as learning how to correctly write a check in a timed event, building a Lego car in order to learn supply chain management, shopping at the “Middle School Mini-Mart” to see exactly how much Captain Crunch cereal was digging into parents’ food budgets, and so on.

The Fair used seed money from a grant that Scaife had received. “I had a different project in mind, but changed schools before I could implement it. When Dr. Stanwick suggested we ask the social studies teachers to help us with a financial literacy fair at Drake, I jumped at the chance.” Planning began in late fall and Stanwick’s cost accounting students from Auburn University were enlisted to help as part of a service learning project for their class.

“We received such great support from the entire Drake administration.

I can’t believe how engaged the kids have been. We’ve got 350 students in the gym for the afternoon session and it’s noisy, but not chaotic. They’re having a good time and learning, too”, Stanwick said.

With a successful Financial Literacy Fair under their belts, Scaife and Stanwick will begin planning for the next installment. “It’s been fun for us, fun for all the students. It’s never too early to begin learning how to make sound money management decisions. We hope to share our program with other schools around the state and involve even more students next year”, emphasized Scaife.

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Cowboy Roundup Benefits Storybook Farms

Storybook Farm had another great Cowboy Roundup for the third year in a row. We polished our spurs and saddled up for some wild west fun. For all three nights of the roundup, cowboy grub was served by our friends at the Irish Bred Pub. The yummy menu included: shepherd’s pie, grilled chicken, potatoes, salad and cookies. Members from the Southeastern Raptor Center were able to come out and release four rehabilitated Barn Owls back into the wild and Bob Parsons from Walkabout Puppets performed a puppet show that brought down the house with his hilarious rendition of Goldilocks and the Three Bears. The hayride, bonfire, cowboy crafts and face painting were a hot ticket too. About 300 head wranglers and cowpokes joined us and made bunches of memories in the process. Thank you so much to everyone who braved the weather to support Storybook!

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Summer Show-Offs Camp at Lee-Scott Academy

Lee-Scott Academy hosted Summer Show-Offs, a show choir camp for students of all ages. Summer Show-Offs is great for self-esteem, coordination, and confidence.

Students learn that singing, dancing, and speaking on stage can be fun! The camp was directed by Eron and Mary Smith.

Auburn Dixie Youth Team Advances to Montgomery The Auburn Orange Dixie Youth AAA (9-10) All-Star team won Sub-District and came in second in the District Tournament. They continued their play to the Sub-State Tournament in Montgomery. Two of the players hit homeruns during the tournament play: Caden Parker and Brady Fuller. The team is managed by Josh Jackson and coaches include Dennis Veronese, Davis Lambert and Mark Fuller. Pictured, Front (L-R) Cade Brooks, Brock Hollingsworth, Franklin Jackson, Kal Whaley, Colson Rabren, Will Sorrells; 2nd (L-R) Webb Veronese, Will Goodling, Brady Fuller, Trevor Mashburn, Caden Parker, Will Cowan; 3rd (L-R) Josh Jackson, Davis Lambert, Dennis Veronese, Mark Fuller (not pictured).

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Summer Blast 2012

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The Church of the Highlands hosted Summer Blast 2012.

This three-day kid’s conference focused on the theme, “Everything is Possible with God.” Campers from the Auburn/Opelika area enjoyed learning, sharing, and fellowship. One of the highlights of the event was the 'Angry Bird' game where the kids felt like they were real life angry bird participants!

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Cornerstone Kids Give Back

Cornerstone's Foundations 4-year-old Preschool class visited Community Market to help restock their shelves. What a great job they did to help others!

Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

Clean Up Day at Storybook Farms

A special thank you to the families of Cornerstone Church for their volunteer efforts on the grounds of Storybook Farms. Storybook Farm Inc., is a non-profit faith-based organization that provides equine assisted activities for children experiencing physical, mental, social and emotional challenges.

Dr. John W. Tole is the area’s only Board-Certified Allergy and Immunology physician. We treat patients of all ages.         

Allergies/Hay Fever Sinus Infections and Drainage Asthma and Cough Food Allergies Stinging Insect Allergies Eczema and Skin Allergies Hives and Angioedema Drug Allergies And Much More

121 N. 20th St., Suite 7, Opelika  (334) 528-0078  www.EAAllergy.com Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

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Upcoming First Graders Visit Cary Woods

On May 14, kindergartners from Auburn Early Education Center visited Cary Woods to take a tour of their new school. This fall, the students will be attending their new school as first graders!

The tour included a look at their classrooms, story time in the media center, recess on the playground and a snack of cool popsicles. Cary Woods is excited to welcome all the new first graders and their families!

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Lee-Scott Hosts Literature Camp

Lee-Scott Academy hosted a summer literature camp for rising 2nd - 4th graders on June 18-21. The camp's purpose was to give students a time to celebrate quality children’s literature! The focus was on story elements, comprehension skills and author’s purpose. The students wrote and illustrated their own books which strengthened sentence structure and grammar skills.

Please send your school news and photos by the 20th of each month to: kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

Local Boy Sings National Anthem at Tournament

Austen Blackmon showed honor to our Flag and the National Anthem during the opening ceremony of the Dixie Boys Tournament. Pictured also are local community leaders: Bill English/Lee Co. Probate Judge, Rusty Melnick/Parks & Rec Board, Gary Fuller/Mayor of Opelika, Bran Blackman/Head Coach Opelika High School, Bill Trant/Local Business leader and league ball players.

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Cow Appreciation Day

The children from King's Kids Child Care and Development Center dressed up like cows and headed to Chick-fil-A Tigertown. On July 13, anyone that dressed up like a cow received free chicken!

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Learning at P.E.E.P.S. Camp

The Poultry and Egg Experiences for Prospective Students (P.E.E.P.S.) Camp is an exceptional summer camp/workshop experience for rising first- through seventh-graders. The camp helps students learn about the connections between and importance of agriculture, food, science, and poultry. Pictured is Skila Thompson, a third-grader from Tallassee, who said her favorite part of the day was holding the chicks. She said she is interested in learning more about poultry science after attending P.E.E.P.S. camp.

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Science Matters 2012

Science Matters is a summer enrichment program for elementary students in rising grades 1-6 offering youngsters a supercharged science experience. The program allows participants to explore the world of science through real experiments, technology and art projects, and handson, make-n’-take activities. During this action-packed program, kids can design and build, dabble in the art of chemistry, “become a flight specialist,” see amazing critters, and more! The campers had a fun time learning and meeting new friends this summer!

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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The Auburn fireworks was spectacular, as this year's show lit up the sky with bright red, white and blue bursts!

Pictured, Christopher, Alissa, and Aiden are dressed in their Fourth of July best.

C Happy 4th of July from Storybook Farms.

Fourth of July Fun

Morgan Smith and her mom, Jamye, enjoyed the City of Auburn fireworks display celebrating the 4th of July. Along with other family members, they found a great spot to fellowship and view the spectacular fireworks show among other Auburn and Opelika families. Morgan loved all the bright colors, loud bangs, and grand finale!

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Briggs & Stratton Makes Donation to Annual July Fourth Celebration

Briggs and Stratton Corporation Human Resource Manager Cisco King (pictured left) presented Auburn Mayor Bill Ham, Jr. (pictured right) with a $10,000 check for the Annual Fourth of July Celebration at the Tuesday, June 19 City Council meeting. For the last 16 years, Briggs and Stratton has provided $10,000 each year for the celebration. Auburn Parks and Recreation would like to express its appreciation to Briggs and Stratton for their sponsorship of this annual event, enabling the City to secure an outstanding fireworks display for Auburn citizens to enjoy.

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Auburn Community Enjoys Fourth of July Celebration

Auburn’s Annual Fourth of July Celebration, sponsored by Briggs and Stratton Corporation, was held on Wednesday, July 4 behind the home side of Duck Samford Stadium. This event featured goodies and giveaways, courtesy of Briggs and Stratton; live music from The Answer Band; and culminated with a fireworks display viewed by thousands of citizens in and around Duck Samford Stadium. Special thanks to Briggs and Stratton for providing this free community event since 2000. Pictured enjoying the celebration is the Ingram family.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Opelika Back-to-School Info

Auburn Back-to-School Info

• School starts on Monday, August 20th

• School starts on Monday, August 20th

Important Dates

Meet Your Teacher

• Thursday, August 16, Meet Your Teacher (PreKindergarten – 5th grade only – 7:30-10 a.m. or 1-2 p.m.)

• OMS Schedule pick up is August 17 (10 a.m. for 6th graders and 1:30 p.m. for 7th and 8th graders) • OHS Freshman Orientation is August 9, 6:00 p.m.

• OHS Senior Parent Meeting is August 6, 6:00 p.m.

• OHS Junior and Sophomore Parent Mtg. is August 7, 6:00 p.m.

Meet Your Teacher Thursday, August 16 Auburn Early Education Center (3 -5 p.m.)

All Auburn City Schools Elementary Schools (4-6 p.m.)

H.A.P.I.E./Pre-K (noon – 2 p.m.)

(First day of school, Monday, August 27) 3 yr olds—7:45-10:15 M-Th; 4 yr olds—10:30-1:30 M-F

Open House

Open House Dates

Monday, August 16, 9:00- 11:00 a.m.- 7th Grade 1:00- 3:00 p.m.- 6th grade

Morris Avenue Intermediate School August 16, 6:00 p.m. (3rd grade only) August 23, 6:00 p.m. (4th and 5th grade) Northside Intermediate School August 23, 6:00 p.m.

Opelika Middle School August 27, 6:00 p.m.

Opelika High School August 28, 6:00 p.m.

Carver Primary School August 30, 6:00 p.m.

Jeter Primary School August 30, 6:00 p.m.

Southview Primary School September 4, 6:00 p.m.

West Forest Intermediate School September 6, 6:00 p.m.

Opelika Learning Center September 10, 8:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

Auburn Junior High School

Student Schedule Pick Up Dates 9th Grade: Tuesday, July 24, from 8:30 until 11:30 a.m.

8th Grade: Wednesday, July 25, from 8:30 until 11:30 a.m.

Meet Your Teacher Dates 8th Grade: Wednesday, August 15, from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m.

9th Grade: Thursday, August 16, from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m.

Auburn High School

Open House - August 28, 6:00 p.m. – general assembly and classroom visits Auburn High School will host RECONNECT sessions for Sophomores on July 24, Juniors on July 25 and Seniors on July 26 from 8:30 to noon each day in the AHS New Gym. RECONNECT sessions provide an opportunity for students to pick up class schedules, purchase meal tickets, pay class dues, pick up parking hang tags and tour the facility.

Camp iCare Campers Run a Lemonade Stand

Camp iCare is a philanthropy camp for kids ages 6-12. This camp is designed to teach children how to be "money smart" and philanthropically engaged.

Local campers designed and ran a lemonade stand in the Kroger Shopping Center parking lot.

With smiles and sweet lemonade, their stand was a huge hit and great success. All of the proceeds went to Camp iCare and Real Cents Real Change project.

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Getting a KICK Out of Summer

Auburn and Opelika campers have enjoyed a summer of fun at Auburn Academy of Martial Arts! The campers have learned new techniques including forms, sparing, kicks and much more.

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Distinguished Young Women Participate in Mock Interviews

Distinguished Young Women of Lee County participants gathered at the Opelika Sportsplex the evening of June 19 for mock interviews in preparation for the upcoming program August 18. The participants are girls from all around the Lee county area entering their senior year of high school. The young women are competing for scholarship in the areas of scholastic, talent, interview, fitness, and self expression. The program will be August 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the Auburn High School Performing Arts Center. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased by any participant or the evening of the program.

LSA Hosts Science and Technology Camp

Lee-Scott Academy hosted a three-day Science and Technology Camp from June 18-20. The Science Camp was a total hands-on experiment fest from start to finish. This camp was designed to combine fun and reinforce Alabama Science objectives. The Technology Camp utilized PowerPoint, Google Earth, iChat, Photo Booth, iCal, and iPhoto. MacBooks were used and iPads introduced. The camp was directed by LSA teachers, Juli Clardy and Allyson Roberts.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

Women at the Heart of Art Asked to name famous artists, most folks will quickly offer up the familiar names of Da Vinci, Renoir, Picasso, Warhol and similar gentlemen who made their influential mark on the arts scene through history. But it’s only in the most recent century, as social mores and strictures loosened, that women artists have made their way into cultural ‘who’s who’ of famous artists. The following titles highlight a few of these women whose contributions to the broad palette of artistic sensibilities have enriched the art world and inspired new generations of girls and boys to make art from the heart.

Georgia’s Bones

by Jen Bryant, Illustrated by Bethanne Anderson (Eerdman’s Books for Young Readers) This beautiful testament to Georgia O’Keefe’s journey from eccentric child to one of the world’s most recognized artists supports every child’s inclination to render the natural world through art. Mirroring the experience of female artists who were just beginning to emerge as landmark contributors on the art scene in the 20th century, this quote from the book regarding O’Keefe’s signature images of bones has extra meaning: “Perhaps it was the quiet way they did their work – the years of being invisible, and then when everything fell away, they appeared, pure and beautiful.” Indeed. O’Keefe’s art has become a visible and lasting testament to the transformative eye of the artist on the beauty of nature.

Wanda Gag: The Girl Who Lived to Draw

by Deborah Kogen Ray (Penguin/Viking) Illustrator and author of the first modern children’s picture book ‘Millions of Cats’, Wanda Gag’s story is extracted from diary entries and letters in this uplifting tale of a girl longing to create art. Gag’s struggles with personal tragedy and with the challenges of seeking art training at a time when women were struggling to emerge as serious artists is a reminder that art often requires sacrifice. Reminiscent of a true fairy tale, the story of Wanda Gag’s artistic quest is an inspirational message to aspiring artists with their own stories to tell in words and pictures.

Art From Her Heart: Folk Artist Clementine Hunter

by Kathy Whitehead, Shane W. Evans (Penguin/Putnam) Patience and will underscore the artistic journey of folk artist, Clementine Hunter, a child of slaves who worked on a Louisiana plantation that served as a nexus for artist and writers in the early 20th century. Developing a passion for art in her mid-life, Hunter used the plantation visitors’ leftover paints and cast-off tools to render images from her world and culture – images that would later capture the eyes of the world. But when her poignant and powerful folk art style gained the art world’s attention and a gallery exhibition, her race still prohibited her from visiting her own showing until after hours. Undeterred by the barriers in her way, unfazed by her lack of formal training and unafraid to take up art late in life, Clementine Hunter’s contribution to the folk art world unlocked the door for many artists to step through.

Find more A Page in a Book recommendations at www.PageBookReviews.com.

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BIRTHDAY PARTY & ANNUAL FAMILY DAY

OCTOBER 13, 10 AM - 1 PM

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Celebrate the Museum’s 9th birthday in 1940s style!

Get keen to the ritzy party as we talk about the works of art that were the cat’s meow in ’48, learn about the bluenoses who canned Advancing American Art (and the Reds that painted the works), all while listening to swinging music of the day, chowing on ice cream and cake, and having a swell time!

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JCsm.Auburn.edu Art Interrupted: Advancing American Art and the politics of Cultural diplomacy September 8, 2012 through January 5, 2013 The exhibition, accompanying catalogue, educational programs, and national tour of Art Interrupted: Advancing American Art and the Politics of Cultural Diplomacy are made possible by grants from the Henry Luce Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts as part of American Masterpieces: Three Centuries of Artistic Genius.

IMAGE: Arthur Dove, Grey-Greens, 1942, wax emulsion on canvas, Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art,

Auburn University;Advancing American Art Collection 1948.1.11. Copyright the 29Estate of Arthur G. Dove, Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com courtesy Terry Dintenfass, Inc.

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

7/17/12 9:18 AM

7 Tips for PROCRASTINATING KIDS

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Simple suggestions to increase productivity and reduce nagging!

by Michele Ranard, M.Ed.

If you live with a tween or teen, it’s likely you have a procrastinator under the roof and an equally likely chance you are now an expert at nagging. Does this sound like you?

“You can’t wait until the night before the math test to cram!”

“If you don’t start rehearsing that speech on Anne Frank, you’ll choke!”

“Get going on that required reading on the Executive branch!”

A Nasty Habit

Procrastination may be as much a part of our humanness as eating and sleeping, but adolescent kids seem especially vulnerable. In The Procrastinating Child: A Handbook for Adults to Help Children Stop Putting Things Off, Rita Emmett explains procrastination is simply a bad habit we can correct. We fall prey to the behavior when we feel overwhelmed, become distracted or feel helpless.

Here’s the rub about their procrastinating and our nagging—are we actually practicing what we preach? Or are we guilty of putting off housework, bill Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

paying, and turning in the report before deadline?

Perfectionism: Procrastination’s BFF

Your adolescent child may seem lazy when she is actually overwhelmed.

Sometimes the feeling is a result of perfectionism as it goes hand in hand with procrastination. If your child is fearful of failing an exam or a particular task, such anxiety may cause her to stall. She may feel stuck and unable to become mentally mobilized. The bad habit may continue into adulthood, jeopardizing future successes.

A consistent fear of failure can lead to a pattern of indecisive behavior author Neil Fiore notes as a warning sign in The Now Habit. He also identifies low selfesteem and lack of assertiveness as red flags for procrastinating behavior.

Tips for Increased Productivity 1. Trick your brain.

There is hope. To combat the tendency to put things off, Fiore suggests transforming the thought “I don’t want 30

to” into “I wonder what will come?”

Sounds simple, but the attitude adjustment is powerful. In a sense, that subtle shift tricks the brain into a more productive mode.

2. Get comfy with mistakes.

Help your child understand how perfectionism stops him from greater productivity. Kids need to learn it is OK to make mistakes. Explain that “not perfect” is altogether different than “fail.”

Plus, a certain comfort level with failure is necessary.

3. Model a healthy response to errors.

One of the best ways to get more comfortable about accepting mistakes is through modeling. Seeing parents acknowledge their own daily errors (and responding with humor and compassion for the missteps) is both a gift and permission for your tween to go for it.

4. Think smaller chunks.

Emmett recommends helping children break overwhelming tasks into smaller chunks. If your child has an upcoming Civil War test and simply cannot get the gears in motion, help her Advertising: 334-209-0552

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get organized. Look at the task of test preparation as a series of baby steps.

Help her make a short list for a plan of attack, such as reread two chapters of the text Monday, study notes Tuesday and Wednesday, and cover vocabulary on Thursday. Ideally, middle school teachers would teach time management, but parents can also help children learn time-management strategies.

5. Set expectations for homework completion.

Parents can influence their tween’s productivity by setting firm rules at home, offering rewards, and making lists.

Do not put off making these rules. The basic rule of “no TV until your homework is done” is an obvious place to begin to curb the procrastination. Screen time may be suspended or offered as rewards for successful time management.

6. Make lists like a bandit.

Make lists for everything so there can be no excuses. Adolescents are especially prone to selective memory even when rules are clearly articulated. Notes are more effective than nagging for gentle reminders of chores, appointments and expectations. Throw in some fun messages, too: “Megan Fox called. She said good luck on the simplifying fractions test!”

7. Remove the STING from feeling overwhelmed.

A great strategy from Emmett’s book: *Select one task you’ve been putting off. *Time yourself and take one hour to accomplish the task. *Ignore everything around you, such as the phone and other tasks. *No breaks. One hour is realistic for a middle school student. *Give yourself a reward once the task is complete.

The tween and adolescent years are an optimal time to help the ones you love most shed bad habits that could trip them up later. It may only take a few months to see positive results and begin celebrating your more productive child.

Michele Ranard is the queen mother of two princes of procrastination. She has a master’s in counseling, a freelance writing career, and blogs at cheekychicmama.blogspot.com and hellolovelyinc.blogspot.com.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Craft ng & Cook ng with Kids

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by Dana Moonan

Crafts to Get You Ready for School It’s almost that time again…time to head back to school. Make this new school year the best yet by getting off to an organized start. Make a craft or two, plan a snack or two, and you will be headed in the right direction.

Along with school days, fall activities start as well. A family calendar is a must.

There are many different choices to meet your family’s needs. You can try a white board and write in the week or the month.

Then assign each child or each activity a different color. If you prefer the “oldie but goodie” calendar- a large monthly paper calendar or desk top calendar may be want you want.

You can even print one from your computer and customize with pictures for activities.

In every retail store you can find a different variation of a family calendar. Once you have selected one to meet your family’s needs- get crafty. Use colorful markers or pictures to mark each activity that your child and you need to remember. Help your child get in the habit of writing on and using this calendar in the days leading up to school. This will be a great tool to help keep your family organized in the year to come.

Let your children’s creativity flow with this next craft. Using a 3x5 note card make your own backpack and lunch bag tags. I like to take two note cards and glue together for a thicker note card. Then use scrapbook letters and stickers to personalize the tag. If your child likes lizards or bugs, use those types of stickers in a border around his name. Hearts, flowers, Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

trucks or soccer balls are all available plus others in the scrapbook section of your craft store. Or you can use the clipart on your computer to make a tag. Add your clip art to a new document and then write your child’s name underneath. Hold the card up to the screen so that you can see how big to make your font. Then print, cut and glue to your tag. If you don’t want to do your child’s full name you can use their initials, monogram or single letter.

After your tag is complete you can take it to a copy shop to have it laminated. You can also cover with clear contact paper or clear packing tape.

There are even clear covers sold in the office supply departments that press and seal your tag. Punch a hole in the top corner and use a decorative piece of ribbon or string to attach to your child’s backpack or lunchbox.

To remind younger children of their morning tasks, try this ready for the day placemat. You will need two 8 ½ x 11 pieces of paper. You can choose your child’s favorite color, or patterned scrapbook paper as the background with white paper on top.

Then write or type the tasks for your child each morning. For example:

Morning To-Do List ___ Make your Bed ___ Get Dressed ___ Eat Breakfast

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___ Pack your Lunch ___ Brush your Teeth ___ Brush your Hair

Don’t Forget

___ Backpack ___ Lunchbox/Lunch Money ___ Sneakers Tuesday for PE ___ Library books due Friday Laminate at a copy shop for durability side by side to make a rectangle placemat shape. Each morning have your child check off the activities at breakfast with a dry erase marker. You can even write reminders the night before. Then wipe off after breakfast and you are ready for the next day.

Fun and Easy Breakfast Recipes!

School morning breakfasts have to be fast at my house. So we use these easy ideas to have fun at breakfast. For the first day of school, and as a special treat, you can assemble a “Happy Back to School Cake”. Just stack a small donut on top of a regular size donut and then add a pretzel stick, marshmallow or other treat to make the top of the cake. Fruit salad is also an easy night before prep. Just slice your favorite fruits up and mix together. Refrigerate and serve the next morning with cereal, pancakes or muffins. If you have a big Sunday breakfast at home over the weekend, make extra pancakes or waffles to serve during the week. Just heat and enjoy. For an even faster breakfast, try a yogurt smoothie or breakfast milkshake.

To make a yogurt smoothie add your favorite yogurt, a little milk, fruit of your choice and a handful of ice cubes. Then blend and enjoy. Older children may want to add some protein powder or peanut butter for a thicker milkshake.

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Dana Moonan is a former first grade teacher and current stay-at-home mom of three, Emily and Matthew, and Abby.

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Dave Says...

Grown Son Should Leave the Nest

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By Dave Ramsey

Q.

My son has worked and saved all through school and will be graduating this year with a degree in electrical engineering. He has a job waiting for him when he finishes, and he wants to move out on his own then. I think he should continue to live at home and save up more money.

What do you think?

A.

Honestly, I think he should move out.

This situation isn’t about money as much as it’s about your son becoming a man. At this point in his life it’s going to be really good for him, emotionally and spiritually, to stand on his own two feet.

It sounds like you’ve got some good ideas about saving and financial responsibility, and he needs to take some of Mom’s advice in those areas. But it’s time he had his own place and started paying his own bills. It’s time for this one to leave the nest, spread his wings, and fly.

Here’s something else to think about.

He’s going to look a whole lot better to the world if he’s out there standing on his own. I think lots of young ladies, not to mention their parents, will be much more impressed by a guy who’s making his own way rather than living at home with mom.

He’s at a point where he’s reaching for dignity and trying to make his way in the world. Let him do it. I’ve got a feeling he’ll make you proud!

Here’s my take. You don’t pass up a great, lifelong relationship just because of debt. You do, however, walk away from a relationship based on things like laziness, irresponsible behavior and immaturity.

These are flaws that usually don’t go away.

Any girlfriend or boyfriend who goes into a marriage thinking, “I can fix this person,” is in for a rude awakening.

I’m glad she’s looking for a job, but her boyfriend also needs to be working— especially if they’re planning to get married. There’s no excuse for either of them being full-time students with $135,000 in combined student loan debt hanging over their heads. Besides, lots of people hold down real jobs and further their educations on a part-time basis.

If she were my niece, I would encourage her to have an open and honest discussion with her boyfriend about their future, how he plans on paying for graduate

school and her feelings on the situation.

If his answer is simply to borrow more money, then she’ll have some potentially difficult decisions to make. But if he realizes how damaging picking up any more debt could be to their finances and their future, then they can start off on the same page. And things will look a lot brighter!

Dave is the author of The New York Times bestselling book Financial Peace. He is also the host of the nationally syndicated The Dave Ramsey Show. You can hear Dave online at www.daveramsey. com. Send your questions to askdave@ daveramsey.com. He resides with his wife Sharon and their three children, Denise, Rachel, and Daniel, in Nashville, Tennessee.

Q. My niece just graduated from college with $20,000 in student loan debt. Her boyfriend graduated as well, and they’re talking about getting married. He has $115,000 in loan debt and wants to go to graduate school. They both want to be teachers, and she’s currently job hunting.

The idea of all this debt hanging over their heads bothers her. Do you have any advice on how she can come to peace with the situation?

A.

This is a really interesting question.

In a way, I’m glad she’s conflicted about the situation. At the same time, I wouldn’t want it to be a deal breaker where their relationship is concerned.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

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Ready? Set… School!

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Get ready for the best year yet with this easy 10-Step Plan

by Lynn Caggiano, M.A.

Got the back-to-school blues?

Dreading the tightly-wound schedule that the school year seems to keep? Are visions of reviewing spelling words as you hurry down the driveway and brushing snarled hair at the traffic light ruining your last lazy days of summer?

Don’t let this year become another never-ending beat-the-clock challenge.

With just a little preparation, you can turn commotion into kudos for you and your children. Here’s how:

1. Be prepared

School’s coming, whether you like it or not. The Boy Scouts were right when they suggested that exemplary scouts are always prepared. So are exemplary parents. Shop for clothes and other supplies as early as possible. Not only will you beat the back-to-school crowds, but malls and stores offer respite from sweltering temperatures and “I’m bored” syndrome.

2. Get organized

Help each child choose a weekly planner/assignment book. Together, write Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

in weekly commitments and other pre-planned events. Schedule chores and school assignments as soon as you know when each task needs to be completed. Break down larger tasks, such as long-term school projects, into manageable chunks, and schedule time for each smaller step. Finally, when she’s asking to arrange a play date, have your child consult her planner for free time slots.

This helps alleviate cries of “It’s not fair!” while teaching time management and responsibility.

3. Nighttime is the right time…

…to get ready for school. Have your child “get ready” for school in the evening. Help her develop self-sufficiency skills by encouraging responsible behavior and preparedness. Even young children can chose and pack their own lunch with parental assistance, which you can work into your after-dinner routine. Make sure clothes are laid out and backpacks packed before bed. Have your child check his or her planner for special requirements such as library books or sneakers for Phys. Ed. If nec34

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essary, use a wall chart reward system for preparedness.

4. Be on the school “team”

Your child may spend seven or more hours in school each day, but truly educating your child requires an active partnership between home and school.

Regardless of how you may feel personally about a teacher, your child must work with him or her for the entire school year. Never let your child feel tension between you and her teacher. If your child is struggling, ask what you can do at home to help—and follow through! Creating a sense of partnership allows your child to see that her education is important to you, and that you are working with the teacher, not against her, to help your child achieve academic success.

5. Volunteer

Teachers may have great ideas for curriculum extensions, but are often short on two critical factors that make these a reality—time and money. Even if you don’t have the time to head a parent committee or chaperone a field Advertising: 334-209-0552

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trip, offer to do something that you can reasonably accomplish, for example, creating a newsletter, making phone calls, comparing prices or stuffing envelopes. Your child’s teacher will appreciate the offer and your child will see that enriching his school experience is important to you.

6. Homework is sacred

Resist the urge to pass off homework as unimportant, even if you don’t understand the significance of a particular assignment. Even muttering under your breath can adversely affect your child’s attitude toward schoolwork. If you have concerns about the quality or quantity of homework assigned, address your child’s teacher privately. Creating daily quiet time and space for homework exemplifies its importance.

7. Whose homework is it anyway?!

Chances are you’ve already mastered basic subtraction skills or learned how to write a paragraph. Your child needs independent practice as well, even if his attempts are incorrect. Remember,

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we learn from our mistakes—and so does your child’s teacher. Teachers often rely on completed homework to guide instruction. Resist the urge to over-correct homework.

8. Keep your child well-rounded

Consider school your child’s full-time job. No one likes to work all day and work again at home! Just as you need mental and physical downtime, so does your child. Schedule recreational or extra-curricular activities that your child may enjoy, but be careful not to over-do it. Be sure to leave time for relaxation and unstructured play. Encourage social engagements, but recognize when your child needs to unwind by himself.

9. Early to bed, early to rise

Rising early means having enough time to eat, groom and dress. A smooth and unharried morning routine allows your child to arrive at school calm, collected and ready to learn.

10. Eat well

Low sugar breakfast and lunch meals may help your child remain focused

throughout the school day. Too much sugar, found in many popular cereals, fruit juices, and prepackaged “snacks” can cause mid-day jitters and affect your child’s concentration. Pack healthy snacks such as fresh or dried fruit, pretzels, trail mixes or low-sugar yogurt. For lunch, choose fresh fruits and vegetables, proteins (tuna, hard boiled eggs, lean lunch meats, lowsugar, natural peanut butter) and whole grain products, such as whole wheat or multigrain breads. These can help your child sustain energy without causing a “sugar high.” Teach your child that a diet rich in essential vitamins and minerals helps build the immune system and helps the body resist disease.

Know for yourself that a healthy child misses less school. If your child has food allergies or is a fussy eater, make sure you ask your pediatrician about vitamin supplements, many of which may be covered by basic health insurance plans.

Lynn Caggiano is an elementary reading specialist and mom of two.

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Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

After School Activities Guide Art

Auburn Parks and Recreation

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, 222 East Drake Avenue Auburn. 501-2963. Adventures in Art 2012: September 10-14. Adventures in Art is a field trip component of a community-based, art education program for all 4th and 5th grade students attending Auburn City Schools.

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts

901 South College Street, Auburn. 844-1484. Learn, create and explore at JCSM during the fall Saturday Art Club. The program is free for all K-12 grade students. 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. www.jcsm.auburn.edu • Opelika Parks and Recreation- Denson Drive Recreation Center; 705-5558; Classes August 20October 11 and November 5-December 20.

Pastels for Kids- Ages: 8-12; Thursdays 4:305:30pm, $50/6 wks Cerami Kids I- Ages: 6 and up. Mondays 3:304:30pm; $30/8 wks.

Cerami Kids II-Ages: 6 and up. Tuesdays 3:304:30pm; $30/ 8wks.

Cerami Kids III- Ages: 6 and up. Wednesdays 3:304:30pm; $30/8 wks.

Cerami Kids IV- Ages: 6 and up. Thursdays 1:002:00pm; $30/8wks.

Cerami Kids V (Homeschoolers)- Ages: 6 & up.

Mondays 3:30-4:30pm. $30/8wks.

Creations in Clay- Ages: 6-8. Wednesdays 3:305:00pm. $50/8wks Homeschool Handbuilding- Tuesdays 10:0011:30am. $50/8wks Sit-N-Spin Wheel Class- Ages 9 and up. Fridays 3:30-5:00pm. $50/8wks

Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Before/After School Care

Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center

128 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn.

Now registering for fall (infant - 6yrs and afterschool programs). Call Milissa or Joyce 821-8125.

Open 7:00 am -5:30 pm. Transportation from schools available. Children engage in many hands-on activities that promote learning in language, fine & large motor skills, the arts, math, science, and socialemotional skills. Nationally Accredited through the National Accreditation Commission for Early Care and Early Programs and Licensed through Alabama Department of Human Resources.

Game Day Babysitters

334-209-0866; djr1228@yahoo.com Plan ahead and let us provide your childcare for Auburn game day and weekends. Call for our rates and references.

Growing Room Child Development Center

644 North Dean Road, Auburn. 334-501-2044; www.growingroomusa.com; 6:30 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Monday to Friday: 6 weeks-12 years old. Give Your Child the Growing Room Experience! “On Our Block”-language based curriculum, Character Education programs, A Beka Phonics, extracurricular programs include JumpBunch, dance, and Spanish, & before and after school care to most Auburn City Schools.

Lakeview Preschool Adventures

1600 East Glenn Ave, Auburn. Holly Hutto, 3325131 or hb5hutto@charter.net; It is not too late to enroll for the 2012-13 school year!! Classes for 1-4 year olds; 2 day, 3, day and 4 day a week options.

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Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday. Lakeview Preschool Adventures is a Christ centered program that focuses on Scripture memory, Bible stories, social interaction and letter and number recognition.

We believe that the most important task we have is to help children develop mentally, physically, spiritually, and socially through a planned curriculum.

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Milestones Learning Center

1811 E Glenn Ave, Auburn. Lee Sides (334) 8874391‎; www.milestoneslc.com; 6 weeks old – Pre-K; Full time and part time available; Monday- Friday; 6:30 am- 6:00 pm.“Believes Childhood is a Journey, not a Race”. High/Scope Curriculum. 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.

• A to Z Home Daycare- Belinda Dowdell 821-3292 or 663-5961. Before and after school drop off/pick up service.

• Auburn City Schools -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.

• Auburn Day Care Centers- 410 Boykin Street, Room 14; Auburn. 821-4060. Afterschool pickup and care.

Advertising: 334-209-0552

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• Auburn United Methodist Church Discovery Club After-School Program -137 South Gay Street; Auburn.

826-8800; www.aumc.net; Monday- Friday (after school until 6:00 p.m.) care is available to children in the 1st-7th grades and can be picked up at their schools and transported to the church for homework, snacks, crafts, cooking, recreational activities, devotionals and mission projects. All day sessions from 8:00am- 6:00pm are offered on days when the Auburn Public Schools are closed for staff development days. This ministry is designed to provide a Christian, homelike environment after school while parents are working.

• Bonnie’s Kids Child Care Inc.-2314 Enterprise Drive, Opelika. 745-6248. pick up from school for Beauregard, Opelika & Auburn for after school programs.

• BRIDGES After-School Program is an out-ofschool time program of care and supervision for children ages 10-14 sponsored by the Employers’ Child Care Alliance. Based on an innovative curriculum, participants will be involved in a variety of healthy, fun, educational and interactive program elements (or clubs). With a commitment to quality and adequate supervision, staff/student ratios will be no more than 1 to 12. Tutoring will be offered from 3:15-4:00.

Snack will be provided. 3:15-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday. The program will operate according to the Drake Middle School calendar. Call 749-8400.

• Little Miss Muffet Day Care- 1101 Fitzpatrick; Opelika. 745-2365. After school pick up and care.

old-12 years old; 6:30am-6:00pm; Monday.-Friday.

“Where Discovery Leads to Learning!” After school pick up at Auburn City Schools, Lee Scott, and Indian Pines. kidscreative7@gmail.com

• Miss Deanna’s Childcare- 1901 Corporate Drive, Opelika. 745-7139. After school transportation and care.

• God’s Glory Daycare- 1500 Bruce Avenue, Opelika. 737-0443.Before and After School care and pickup.

• Opelika City Schools- 745-9700. 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.

Extended Day programs are available to students in grades Pre-K-8th grade.

• Hardy’s Creative Child Care- 222 North College Street, Auburn. Contact Martha Hardy 821-4514.

Ages: 18 months-11 years old. 6:30 am – 5:45 pm . After School program including pick up transportation; Developmentally appropriate curriculum.

Nationally Accredited • HealthPlus Fitness Center- 1171 Gatewood Drive, Auburn. laura.futrell@eamc.org 887-5666 ext 209.

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. Ages K- 8th grade.

• The Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County400-B Boykin Street, Auburn; 821-6020; pharrison@bgcleeco.org. & 1610 Toomer Street, Opelika.

745-2582; ybatts@bgcleeco.org. An after school Youth Development program that serves youth ages 6-18 in Greater Lee County during the hours of 2:306:30pm. 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

• Jacob’s Ladder Early Learning Center1452 Opelika Rd; Auburn. 821-5100 • Kingdom Child Care Center-112 North 16th Street; Opelika.749-7051. After school pick up and care.

• Child Care Network- 702 Second Avenue; Opelika.749-9631. before and after school pick up for most Opelika City Schools.

• King’s Kids Child Care and Development Center- 2900 Waverly Parkway; Opelika. 749-3916.

Before and after school.

•Final CreativeLPA Discovery Child Development Center-PM Ad 1/12 1/8/12 3:42 1675 Shug Jordan Parkway; Auburn. 887-5730; www.creativediscoverycdc.com; Ages: 6 weeks

• Learning Page 1 Zone- 1221 Commerce Drive; Auburn.

821-1127. After school program, drop off and pick up.

• University Daycare, LLC Child Care Center2454 East University Drive, Auburn, 826-7337.

Before and after school care and pickup available.

• Wee Care Daycare- 1745 East University Drive; Auburn. 821-0066. before and after school.

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birthdaysÊÊÊfundraisersÊÊÊeventsÊÊÊcatering Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Dance

Make Your Move Performing Arts Studio

“Everyone’s a STAR at Make Your Move”.

116 Columbus Parkway, Opelika and Valley Sportsplex. 705-0205. www.makeyourmovedance.com.

Fall registration and classes enrolling now! 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.

Nix Dance Studio- 850 Stage Road, Auburn.

887-7250 or www.nixdancestudios.com; Registration and open house- Wednesday, August 1: 3:00-6:00pm or Thursday, August 2: 4:00-6:00pm. Come and select your schedule and shoe fittings. Fall classes for ages 3 years-adult. Offering classes in ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical/contemporary, hip hop, baton, pointe, and company.

• Celtic Traditions- 2705 Frederick Road, #3, Opelika. 705-0303. www.celtic-traditions.net. We spread the joy of Irish dancing through classes and performances. Fall classes forming now.

• Rising Starz Performing Arts Center- 2140 E. University Drive, Auburn. 209-1464.

• Variations Dance- 323 Airport Road, Suite E, Auburn. 275-5013.

Educational Kumon

Flint’s Crossing, 1550 Opelika Rd. Suite 9/10, Auburn. 501-8586. www.kumon.com/auburn-opelika; Kumon is an after-school math and reading enrichment program designed for students of all levels.

A Kumon Program can be tailored for advanced students who need to be challenged, but also for students who need help catching up. The Kumon Math and Reading Center offers a program to help your child reach their potential. Offering Kumon Jr. for ages 3-5 years and Kumon for preschool through high school. FREE PLACEMENT Tests are administered by appointment. Please call to schedule your child’s testing.

The Little Tree Preschool

421 Opelika Road; Auburn. Leigh Ann Strain, 826-1847; lstrain@learning-tree.org; www.learningtree.org. Ages 2.5 years old-6 years old / Up to 24 children served at a time. Hours: 7:45am -3:00 pm; Monday-Friday 1. Preschool Program- Our preschool program aims to prepare students for Kindergarten. Our lessons are based on state standards and our teachers are certified. We focus on pre-reading skills, basic math concepts, handwriting, and social skills. All lessons are geared to address individual developmental needs of those enrolled.

2. Preschool Program for Children Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD): In addition to regular preschool services, we provide intensive services for children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorders and other developmental delays. Our interventions are based on scientifically validated methods, specifically Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA). Each child eligible for special education services has an individualized education plan (IEP) developed upon entrance.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

•Test Prep and Tutoring of Auburn- (formerly Sylvan Learning Center). 687 North Dean Road. 5023459. Offering tutoring serves and test preparation courses throughout the year. We provide homework help for elementary math, Algebra, Geometry, Calculus, Science, Reading, Language, Writing, and others.

We provide ACT Test Prep before each national ACT date, SAT Test Prep is offered as needed. We also provide ASVAB, GRE, Grad Exam, and MCAT Test prep.

Fitness

• HealthPlus Fitness Center- 1171 Gatewood Drive, Auburn. Kid’s Gym- The goal is to provide a safe, friendly environment for your child to explore health and fitness through supervised play. Age 5-12 yrs.

HealthPlus child members may participate in Kids’ Gym at no extra charge. Non-member children may join us for a small fee of $2.00 per visit. Activities include climbing wall, scooters, basketball, relays, kickball, tag games, dodgeball, jump ropes, swimming, board games and more. Laura, 887-5666 ext 209.

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. Ashley, 887-5666.

Water Babies and Swim Lessons- swim lessons offered throughout the year. Call for classes and rates, Ashley, 887-5666. Youth Swim for Fitness- 12 session water fitness program; ages 7-17. Members and non-member rates, call Ashley, 887-5666.

Gymnastics/ Cheerleading Premier Spirit Academy

923 B Stage Road, Auburn. 821-7300; www.premierspiritacademy.com; Register today!

Lee County’s finest cheer and tumbling facility, featuring spring competition floors, air track and tumble tracks. Offering classes for boys and girls of all ages!

Ask about our private lessons and a free trial class.

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.

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.

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.

The Big Green Bus of Auburn

Kelly McArdle 334-332-0833; www.mybiggreenbus. com; BGB is a school bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility.

Our bus will travel to your child’s preschool once a week for a convenient, structured workout! Your child will learn the basics of gymnastics on the balance beam, horizontal bar, vault, tumbling mats, and rings. Also, coordination, strength, and agility will be developed on the mini-trampoline., rock climbing wall, monkey bar, and zip line. Ask about us coming to your fall festivals, birthday parties, church or

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special events. Call today for more information or to reserve your date!

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• Auburn Gymnastics Academy- Earlon & Betty McWhorter Center for Women’s Athletics on Wire Road and W. Samford Avenue, Auburn University. 844.9098

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• Opelika Parks and Recreation- Denson Drive Recreation Center; Call Ben White 705-5547.

Parent and Me Tumbling- Ages 2-3yrs. Parents must participate in helping child with activities. $45/8wks.

Monday/Wed/Thurs. 10am, 6pm classes.

Power Tumbling- Ages 2 and up. Level I, Level II, Level III, Cheer Prep Class and Parent and Me – Classes begin in August! Monday-Thursday; Tumbling TEAM- Thursdays 5:30pm. Call about fall and holiday camps!

Tumble Tots- Ages 4. Tuesdays 6:00pm and Wednesday 10:30am. $45/8wks.

Tumbling Level 1, 2, and 3- Classes Monday-Thursday. $60per class Cheer Prep Tumbling Class- Classes Monday-Thursday. $60per class

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Horseback Riding

• H & G Horse Quarters- 943 Lee Road 57, Auburn. 887-0026. Riding lessons registering now! www.hghorsequarters.com. H&G offers English Hunt Seat Riding Instruction to both children and adults. We emphasize safety, responsibility, and aim to meet the needs of each rider and horse combination. 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.

• Sandy’s Stables- 4273 Lee Road 54, Opelika. www.sandysstables.net; 741-0020. Lessons offered to ages 5 and older, 1 1/2 hours long, one lesson per week or schedule lesson to lesson. Lessons include learning to groom, tack up, and cool down a horse, and horse safety.

Martial Arts

Auburn Academy of Mixed Martial Arts

“Your home for the traditional Korean martial arts of TaeKwonDo and HapKiDo”. 323 Airport Road, Auburn. 334-502-7221. www.auburnacademy.com.

Classes registering now for all ages! Kinder Kick, Beginner, Advanced, Adults, and Homeschoolers. Fitness classes and Kettle Bell. No registration or membership fees. Ask about our family member discounts.

Auburn Mixed Martial Arts

2515 East Glenn, Commerce Park, Auburn. 7039663. 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. Come in for a free class! We offer a patient, safe and supportive atmosphere. All ages welcome.

• Opelika Parks and Recreation- Sportsplex.

705-5560; www.opelikasportsplex.com

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Karate classes Tuesday and Thursday, Ages 5-7, 8-12, and 12-Adult. $65/12 wks.

• Shane Pope’s Taekwondo Academy- 2301 Enterprise Drive, Opelika. 745-5330. Offering classes for all ages-Tiger Cubs, Juniors, Teens to Adult.

Music

• JulieArt Stuidos- 334-745-0972. www.julieartstudios.com; Piano instruction. Curriculum includes sight reading, technique, music theory, performance practices, repertoire and composition.

• Kindermusik at AUMC- Auburn United Methodist Church. 826-8800. www.aumc.net; Register now for fall classes. Monday- Thursday available. Ages birth-7 years old. Village, Our Time, Imagine That!

Young Child, Family Time, and Sign & Sign.

• Opelika Parks and Recreation- Sportsplex.

705-5560; www.opelikasportsplex.com Instant Chord Style Piano- All ages. Learn to play popular songs on the piano using both hands. 8 week program. $60 fee + optional $25 for “Popular Chord Style Piano”. Available from instructor.

EZ Guitar- All ages. $60 + $6 for materials. Learn to play guitar the easy way through simple chords.

You Can Sing!- Kids will learn vocal skills that will last a lifetime. Topics include posture, breathing, tone and warm-ups. 8 week program. All ages. $60 fee.

• The Guitar Shoppe- 762 East Glenn Ave, Auburn.

821-6818. www.auburnguitar.com. Registering now for fall classes in instrument, vocal, theory and more.

Play and Fun

Frog Legs Inflatable Party Zone

467 North Dean Rd, Auburn. 887-8764 or 321-8221. www.froglegsparty.com . Frog Legs is an indoor facility with several inflatables, games, toddler area and a snack bar. The perfect place to play in the after a long day at school or have a jam packed birthday party or get together for any special occasion! It’s a cool place to bounce during those hot days in August.

• USA Mini Golf- USA Town Center, Exit 62 (behind Cracker Barrel), Opelika. 334-745-9393. www. usaminigolf.com; Book your next party, church and corporate event today! Offering the areas only indoor mini golf facility! Huge backroom for your party and reception. Need a family fun day? Come play a round of mini golf in a safe and fun family location. Backto-School hours: Monday-Thursday 12-10pm; Friday 12pm-2am; Saturday 10am-10pm; Sunday 1-6pm.

Scouting

• Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County 1610 Toomer St., Opelika. 745-2582; clubs@bgcleeco.org; www.bgcleeco.org; boys ages 6-18 years.

• Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama- 145 Coliseum Blvd; Montgomery, AL; 1-800-239-6636 or 334272-9164; www.girlscoutssa.org; girls ages 5-17 years. Daisies, Brownies and Girl Scouts meetings are held at St. Michael’s Church on various days and times. 887-5540

Sports

Auburn Parks and Recreation

Dean Road Recreation Center, Auburn. 501-2930. www.auburnalabama.org Cheerleading- 1st-6th grade; Girls will be instructed in basic cheerleading skills and placed on squads to cheer for the Auburn Youth Football Association

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

(334) 209-0552 or ads@auburnopelikaparents.com 39

Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Brown Rec Center. $10.00.

Start Smart Soccer- Houston Manning, 501-2942.

Age 4 years; prepares children for organized soccer in a fun, non-threatening environment, while allowing children to work one-on-one with a parent. This 6 week program teaches children skills including dribbling, kicking and passing, trapping, and throw ins and agility. Registration is August 6th- 31st at Dean Road Rec Center,. $50.00.

Youth Recreational Soccer Leagues- Ryan Molt, 5012943. Designed to teach the basic skills of soccer and foster a love of the game. Team jerseys and socks are provided. Ages 4-15 years. Online registration$60, July 23-Aug 8; Walk-in registration Aug 8th, Auburn Soccer Complex, Wire Rd, 6-7pm, $70. Birth certificates required on file.

Tots Tennis and Fitness- Age 2-3 years. 3 Sessions: Sept 5-Sept 26; Oct 8-31; Nov 5-Dec 5. 9-9:30am.

Play fun games and activities that teach tennis skill; help improve balance and coordination. Auburn University Yarbrough Tennis Center, 501-2922,. $5-$15 fees.

Munchkins Tennis- Ages 4-5 years; 3 Sessions- Sept 4-27; Oct 8-Nov 1; Nov 5-Dec 6; Auburn University Yarbrough Tennis Center, 501-2922. $5-$25 fees.

Small racquet needed.

Future Stars Tennis/Half Volleys Tennis- Ages 9-10 years; 3rd-4th grades; 3 Sessions: Sept 4-27; Oct 8-Nov 1; Nov 5-Dec 6. Developing basic tennis skills will be the objective, while fun, fair play, and proper court etiquette. Large junior racquets will be suitable.

Auburn University Yarbrough Tennis Center, 5012922.$10-$45 fees.

Half Volleys Tennis- Ages 6-8; 1st-2nd grades; 3 Sessions: Sept 4-27; Oct 8-Nov 1; Nov 5-Dec 6.

Developing basic tennis skills will be the objective, while fun, fair play, and proper court etiquette. Large junior racquets will be suitable. Auburn University Yarbrough Tennis Center, 501-2922. $10-$45 fees.

Players Tennis- Ages 11-18 years; 6th-12th grade. 3 Sessions: Sept 4-27; Oct 8-Nov 1; Nov 5-Dec 6.Advanced instruction will be mixed with match play and practice drills. Auburn University Yarbrough Tennis Center, 501-2922. $10-$45 fees.

Youth Lacrosse Instructional League- www. auburnyouthlax.com; Boys and girls Ages 6-18.

Registration July 23-Aug 13. Walk in Aug 9. 6 week session; boys and girls play separately. This season is designed to learn 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. This league is open to first time as well as experienced players. All players MUST have proper lacrosse gear and US Lacrosse membership in order to play. Registration forms can be found online or at the Dean Road Auburn Parks and Recreation Center. $40 +online fees/ $50 walk in.

football games. Squads will practice once a week and cheer at one game each week Sept-Nov. $85.00.

Fall Baseball- Youth- Ages 6-7, 8-9, and 10-11 years (As of April 30, 2012). This fall baseball league is the time to work on specific baseball fundamentals or a new position. Games will begin Sept. 6th. Online registration July 16th -August 10th; $25 + Online fees; Walk-In registration August 9th, Dean Road Rec Center, 6-7 pm, $35.

Fall Baseball- Season will focus on fundamentals and fun. Ages 12-13 (age as of May 1, 2012). Online registration- July 16th -August 10th; $25 + online fees; Walk-In registration- August 9th, Dean Road Rec Center, 6-7 pm, $35.

Girls Fall Softball- Season focus on fundamentals and fun. Ages 7-9, 10-12 and 13-15 (ages as of Dec. 31, 2011). Online registration- July 16th -August 10th; $25 + online fees. Walk-In registration- August 9th, Dean Road Rec Center, 6-7 pm, $35.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Flag Football- Ages 6 & 7 years as of July 31, 2012.

Tryout info: August 23, 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). Online registration July 16th -August 10th. $25.00 + online fees; WalkIn registration August 9th; Dean Road Rec Center, 6-7 pm; $35.

Youth Tackle Football- Ages 8 & 9 and 10-12 years as of July 31, 2012. Tryout info: August 9 and 11, at Duck Samford, field 1. Join this full contact tackle sport. Players must provide their own equipment, which must meet NOCSAE standards. Online registration begins July 16- Aug 4, $60 + online fees.

Walk in Registration-August 4th, 10:00 a.m. – noon at the Dean Road Recreation Center, $70. Weight restrictions apply. Physicals (mandatory to play) will be on August 6 and 7 from 6:00-7:00pm at Frank

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• Opelika Parks and Recreation- 1001 Andrews Drive, Opelika. 705-5560; Visit website at www.opelikasportsplex.com Basketball -JR Pro Basketball (Boy & Girls). Ages boys: 1st-3rd grade; Girls: 1st-2nd grade. Sportsplex and Covington Rec Center. $35.

Baton- Tuesdays beginning Sept 4th through Christmas parade. Ages 5-11yrs. Fee $50. Email for more info. jaj0017@tigermail.auburn.edu Boys and Girls Basketball Youth Leagues- Boys 4th-7th grades; Girls 3rd-7th grades; Sportsplex and Covington Rec Center. $35 Boys High School Basketball Organized League Age: 8th-12th grade; Covington Center. $35 Bulldog Youth Football- OPR leagues are “weight restricted” for participation. Weight limits are strictly enforced. Supplies needed: shoes, mouthpiece, pants and pads for pants. Supplies provided: helmet and shoulder pads. Ages 5-8yrs. Registration through Aug 3. Fee $35. Games most Saturday 8:30 and 10:30 a.m. Some weekday games required.

Advertising: 334-209-0552

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Bulldog Youth Football Cheerleaders- Cheer in a fun environment in Bulldog Stadium. Practice starts late August. Fee: $10 plus uniform (approx.$70). Age: 5-8 yrs- (K-3rd grade). Games Saturday 8:00 a.m.

Uniform sizing date- August 11th, 9:00 a.m. -12 noon at Covington Center. Must pay for uniform when sized.

Midget League Football- OPR leagues are “weight restricted” for participation. Weight limits strictly enforced. Supplies needed: Shoes, mouthpiece, pants and pads for pants. Supplies provided: helmet and shoulder pads. Ages 9-12 yrs. Registration through Aug 3. Fee $35.

Midget League Football Cheerleaders- Cheer in a fun environment in Bulldog Stadium. Practice starts late August. Fee: $10 plus uniform (approx.$70).

Age: 4th-7th graders. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, beginning Sept. Uniform sizing date- August 11th, 9:00 a.m. -12 noon at Covington Center. Must pay for uniform when sized.

Fall Soccer- Practice begins early September. Boys and Girls ages 3yrs-7th grade. Fee: $35 (includes jersey, shorts and socks). Fun, non-competitive environment. Shin guards required. Equipment packages may be purchased.

Fall Youth Swim Lessons- Levels 1-6. Ages 4-12; SportsPlex Pool. Class Limited to 20 swimmers per session. $45 fee. Classes Tues/Thurs. 5:306:15pm. Session I: September 4-September 27; Session II: October 2-October 25; Session III: November 1-November 29 (No class Nov 22).

Parent & Me Swim Lesson- Sportsplex Pool. Ages 6months-2yrs. Mondays, 5:30-6pm; Sept 10-Oct 8. Designed for parents interested in acquainting their children to the water in a fun and safe environment. Teaches infants and toddlers water adjustment, blowing bubbles, and under water exploration. $45 fee.

Opelika SeaDawgs Fall Swim Team- Ages 6-18 years. Mon/Tues/Thurs. 5:00-6:00pm; Sept 4-Nov 15. Swim practice for the serious swimmer who wants to stay in shape. $30/month ($10 sibling discount).

Pee Wee Tennis- Tues/Thurs 2:45-3:45pm. Designed to introduce the game to children with fun drills and instruction. Ages 4-5yrs. Fee $50/month ($10 off per sibling).

Beginner/ Intermediate Tennis- Tues/Thurs 3:454:45pm. Work on basic tennis skills with instructive and fun drills. Work match play, score keeping and court etiquette. Ages 1st-5th grade. Fee $50/ month ($10 off per sibling) Jr. High Tennis- Mon/Wed 3:30-4:30pm. Develop tennis skills. Fun, fair play and proper court etiquette will be stressed. Ages 6th-8th grade. Fee $50/month ($10 off per sibling).

High School Tennis- Mon/Wed 4:30-5:30pm.

Designed for intermediate/ advanced tournament players. Instruction with skill building drills along with match play. Ages 9th-12th grade. Fee $50/ month ($10 off per sibling).

• Sports Academy- 3768 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika. 749-4040. www.sportsacademyauburn.com Fall Instructional League- August 6-30. This league is a training league to prepare players for Auburn Parks and Rec. normal fall baseball leagues. Instruction in machine and kid pitch for 7-12 year olds. $180- 4 weeks of instruction and games.

Fall Instructional Wood Bat Baseball LeagueSeptember 15 - October 27. Players train and improve skills in preparation for their upcoming season. Open to any high school baseball player who is currently in 9th-12thgrade. $350 per player, includes Sports Academy game jersey, 5 training sessions, 1 long toss session (pitchers) and 8 games. Wood bats also included. AOP

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Family Calendar Ongoing:

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.

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.

Alabama Shakespeare Festival • The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. August 10-September 2. Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Montgomery. www.asf.net.

Birmingham Children’s Theatre The Frog Prince. July 24-August 4.

BJCC, Birmingham. www.bjcc.org www.bct123.org.

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.

DeSoto Caverns God and Country Light Show. DeSoto Caverns Parks, Childersburg, Al. This special light show celebrates America’s courageous past and will be shown on every caverns tour. Through July31. www.desotocavernspark.com.

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.

Fox Theatre • Peter Pan. August 7-12.

• The Addams Family (touring). August 14-19.

• The Fresh Beat Band Live! August 26.

Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com.

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art 2012 JCSM Membership Week, August 11-17. Become a member or renew your membership to experience the world of art JCSM brings to Auburn. Fun week for the whole family! www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

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 for more information.

Legally Blonde: The Musical July 12-August 5. Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham. www.redmountaintheatre.org.

McWane Science Center • Dora & Diego: Let’s Explore Exhibit The exhibit features beloved characters Dora and Diego from Nickelodeon’s preschool Dora series, along with their friends Boots, Map, Backpack, Isa, Tico, and of course Swiper, now in their own exhibit for children to explore as they learn and play along. Through Sept. 4.

Birmingham. www.mcwane.org.

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

Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

July/August2012

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.

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.

The Rock Ranch “Fun in the Summer Time.” Every Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Guests may enjoy pony rides, locomotive train rides, play time in Tiny Town (air conditioned playhouses), visits to the petting zoo, paddle boats, pedal carts, the giant jumping pillow and more. All attractions are included in the admission price of $10 per person (children 3 and under are free). Georgia. July 15-28. www.therockranch.com.

Parents Support & Moms Groups

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/.

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.

La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. @ Holy Trinity Episcopal in Auburn. For more information call Josie at 257-3950.

Lee County Autism Support Group meets every other month. Call Julie Brown 887-3903 or Florence Evermom 887-5005. Covenant Presbyterian Church on Shelton Mill Road in Auburn.

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.

Moms In Touch. Do you worry about your children?

Come experience how you can replace your anxiety and fear with peace and hope by praying with other moms. Moms In Touch International gathers moms together for one hour, once a week, to pray specifically and scripturally for our children and school. Won’t you join with us in prayer for this next generation? Please contact Julia Farrow at julia@cornerstonebuzz.org for information about our local groups. For more information about Moms In Touch International, visit www.

MomsInTouch.org.

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.

Mom’s Morning Out

Auburn United Methodist Church, 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.

Trinity United Methodist Church (Opelika) Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45-12. $10 per child.

Support Groups

Care N’ Share Group Caring for a family member or friend can be rewarding, but it is not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your grandchildren, provide care to your parents or spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn from each other, ways to cope with the everyday stresses of caring

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for someone you love. We will also give you tools and resources to help you on your journey. Last Monday of each month through November. 7 a.m., or Noon CST (choose the one that works best for you). Registration preferred but not required. This program is supported by the Opelika SportsPlex, Lee-Russell Area Agency on Aging, and Hospice Advantage EAMC. 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. For more information, visit our website at www.foodallergysupporteastal.org or call Barbara at 334-826-3082; bkg2007@bellsouth.net.

GRACE - Post-Abortive Support Group Are you struggling with feelings of regret or sadness from having a pregnancy termination in your past? Do you feel like you can’t share these struggles with anyone?

Would you like to find healing and forgiveness? You are not alone. 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.

Sports

Auburn University Soccer Aug. 17, 19, 31. Auburn Soccer Complex. www.autigers.com.

Burn City Rollers League July 22, August 18. Auburn Team. Columbus Civic Center, Ga. www.burncityrollers.com.

Columbus Roller Derby League July 22, August 18. Columbus Civic Center, Ga. www.columbusciviccenter.org.

Montgomery Biscuits Baseball July 29-31, Aug 1-2, 8-12, 24-28, 30-31. Riverwalk Stadium, Montgomery, Al. www.biscuitsbaseball.com.

Thunder Road Classic 2012 Auburn Soccer Complex. Aug 24-26.

USEF “A” Rated Horse Shows July 19-22, 26-29. H & G Horse Quarters, Auburn. www.hghorsequarters.com.

Thursday, July 19

Covington Movie Club Covington Rec. Center, Opelika. 3:30-5:00 p.m. Ages 6-12. $5 fee. Come and enjoy a movie and popcorn!

705-5560.

Farmers Market at Ag Heritage Park Auburn. 3-6 p.m. An open-air farmers’ market offering locally produced fruits, vegetables, honey, ornamental plants, herbs, flowers, eggs, goat milk, soaps, baked goods and more! In addition, it often features the work of local artisans, educational booths, and musical entertainment. 334.321.1603.

Alice in Wonderland Springer Opera House. www.springeroperahouse.org/ Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens Robin Lake Beach Dome, Callaway Gardens. 4-7 p.m. $5 admission. A variety of local and regional vendors selling fruits and vegetables, including those grown right in Callaway Gardens’ own Mr. Cason’s Vegetable Garden; meats and dairy products; baked goods; soaps, sauces and other specialty items; and flowers and plants.

Additionally, demonstrations and children’s activities ensure a fun and interactive learning environment.

Capital City Shape Notes Concert Old Alabama Town, Montgomery. Singers sing from

Advertising: 334-209-0552

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shape-note hymn books published in Alabama including, The Sacred Harp, and The Christian Harmony. 10 a.m. 3 p.m. www.oldalabamatown.com.

Free Family Film Festival Dolphin Tale Rave Motion Theatre, Montgomery. 9:30 a.m. 7925 Vaughn Road. www.ravemotionpictures.com.

Children’s Matinees: Bee Movie Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org.

2012 Carmike Summer Kid Series Madagascar 2. Wynnsong Theater, Auburn. 10 a.m.

Celebrate the summer with movie and popcorn! Every Thursday this summer, bring the kids to see a favorite kid flick for $2. This includes the movie, popcorn and a drink!

Friday, July 20

Super WHY First-Ever Live Show Preschoolers’ favorite reading-powered heroes soar onto stages nationwide in this all-new live-action adventure.

Fans can visit www.superwhylive.com for more information and to purchase tickets and VIP “Meet & Greet” packages. Birmingham at the BJCC Concert Hall.

Art Club ‘Sculpture’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts, Auburn University. Ages 7th-12th grade. 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Art Clubs are an open studio that offers the opportunity for K-12 students to be creative while learning about art.

Sessions are free, but require preregistration by calling 334-844-3486. Parents are asked to stay at the museum for the session. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Float-In Movie sponsored by Auburn Parks and Rec. Shark Tale. Samford Pool, Auburn. Doors open at 8:15 p.m. FREE admission with Splash Pass or $2/person.

501-2930.

The Montgomery Ballet presents Free Performance on the Green Alabama Shakespeare Festival, Blount Cultural Park, Montgomery. 8-10 p.m. www.montgomeryballet.org.

29th Annual World Deer Expo BJCC, Birmingham. www.bjcc.org Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo Dauphin Island. More than 3,000 anglers from 24 states will fish in the Gulf of Mexico for three days for more than $400,000 in cash and prizes in 30 categories. Last year’s event made the Guinness World Records for world’s largest fishing tournament.

Welcome Home Miss New York Opelika High School Choral Room. 6-8 p.m. Everyone is invited to meet Mallory Hagan at her Homecoming Meet and Greet! Special presentation by the City of Opelika.

Light snacks available.

Back to School Bash Covington Rec Center. Food and fun! Free! All ages welcome. 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. 705-5560.

Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens See July 19 for details.

FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com.

Market Days on Broadway Columbus, Ga. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. 706-596-0111. Grab your recyclable grocery bag and head down to Broadway to pick up locally grown produce, homemade baked goods, artwork, flowers, plants and handcrafted items!

Alice in Wonderland Springer Opera House. www.springeroperahouse.org/ Children’s Matinees: Bee Movie See July 19 for details.

Saturday, July 21

Saturday Art Club ‘Artistic Science’ (K-2nd grade) Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts, Auburn University. K-2nd graders, 10-11:30 a.m. 3rd-6th graders, 12:30-2 p.m.

The Southside Market Gun’s Room, Auburn. 8 a.m.-12 noon. Outdoor market

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

includes fruits, vegetables, herbs, flowers, shrubs, trees, eggs, milk, cheese, etc, as well as artists and crafters who would like to sell products. For more information, or to reserve a space, please call (334) 524-2335.

Down South Dinosaurs Louise Kreher Forest Ecology Preserve, Auburn. 10 a.m. Join us for an entertaining program presented by “The Jurassic Vet” Dr. Ray Wilhite from the Auburn University’s College of Veterinary Medicine on the dinosaurs that once inhabited our area. Children activities available. 334-844-8091 or e-mail preserve@auburn.edu.

Animal Enrichment Day Montgomery Zoo. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

Sweet Summer Night XVII Tallassee Historical District. 4 p.m.-midnight. Street dance and live music. www.tallasseechamber.com.

Wetumpka’s River and Blues Music and Arts Festival 2-10 p.m. A little slice of New Orleans and its music in Wetumpka, Alabama. Come join in the fun and bring the whole family! There will be art vendors, food, activities for kids, and, of course, lots of music! From zydeco to blues to jazz and best of all, IT’S FREE! Our lineup includes Nathan Williams and the Zydeco Cha-Cha’s, The Hotheads, Henry Pugh, The John Bull Band, Brian Hinton, and MORE! 13th Annual Denim & Diamonds Concert Columbus Civic Center, Columbus, Ga. 8 p.m. This year’s performers include Travis Tritt and Diamond Rio. All proceeds will benefit Columbus Hospice and Columbus Hospice of Alabama. Since 1979, Columbus Hospice has provided care to patients whose life expectancy is limited and who can no longer benefit from curative treatment. Columbus Hospice currently services the following counties: Chattahoochee, Harris, Marion, Meriwether, Muscogee, Schley, Stewart, Talbot, Taylor, and Webster counties in Georgia, and Lee and Russell counties in Alabama. www.columbusciviccenter.org.

Rediscover the Rails: Southwest Georgia’s Tourist Train Located inside Georgia Veterans State Park, Cordele, Ga. 9:30 a.m. - 5:15 p.m. www.SamShortline.com.

Alice in Wonderland Springer Opera House. www.springeroperahouse.org/ 29th Annual World Deer Expo BJCC, Birmingham. www.bjcc.org.

Russell Marine/Lions Club Lake Martin Charity Poker Run Alexander City. Annual charity event which draws hundreds to the shores of Lake Martin, raises thousands of dollars to benefit area charities and gives friends and family a day of fun on the lake. 8 a.m.-5 p.m. www. russellmarine.net.

The Montgomery Ballet presents Free Performance on the Green See July 20 for details.

Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo See July 20 for details.

Sunday, July 22

29th Annual World Deer Expo See July 21 for details.

Alabama Deep Sea Fishing Rodeo See July 20 for details.

Monday, July 23

Therapeutics’ Monday Madness at the Sportsplex End of Summer Fun. 705-5560.

OLLI Brown Bag Lunch and Learn Auburn Chamber of Commerce. 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Karen Clark, Shaped Note Music. All meetings are open to the public and are free of cost. Participants should bring their own lunch and drink.www.olliatauburn.org.

CPR/First-Aid Class Auburn Chamber of Commerce. Sponsored by CPR South. Pre-registration required at www.auburncpr.com.

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Max Movie Mondays Puss in Boots. Riverwalk Amphitheatre, Montgomery.

Admission is FREE and the movies begin at Sundown, approximately 8 p.m. Bring the family, your blankets and catch a movie under the stars!

Free Family Film Festival “Shorts” Rave Motion Theatre, Montgomery. 9:30 a.m. 7925 Vaughn Road. www.ravemotionpictures.com.

Summer Astronomy Nights at Callaway Gardens 9 p.m. Free! The astronomers from Columbus State University’s Coca-Cola Space Science Centerwill help you navigate the summer sky. The array of telescopes is fascinating, and you’ll be able to rub shoulders with true space enthusiasts. Bring a blanket or lawn chair! dutch@ ccssc.org.

Tuesday, July 24

Opelika Farmer’s Market The Courthouse Square. 2-5 p.m. The Market will open each Tuesday this summer, rain or shine, provides fresh regional produce, homemade ice cream, and fresh baked goods. For more information, contact Pam PowersSmith, 745.0466.

Auburn High School RECONNECT Session for Sophomores Auburn High School. 8:30 a.m. - 12 noon. Sessions provide an opportunity for students to pick up class schedules, purchase meal tickets, pay class dues, pick up parking hang tags and tour the facility. Students must have submitted updated pupil information cards and residency documentation in order to pick up schedules and to attend classes when school begins. www. auburnschools.org.

Patriot Park IMAX Free Summer Film A Bug’s Life. National Infantry Museum, 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, GA. 9 a.m.

Summer Swing Concert “Muse” Sponsored by Opelika Parks and Rec. Municipal Park, Opelika. Bring blankets and chairs for an evening of concerts in the park. 705-5560.

Wacky Water Games Covington Rec Center. Fun with bubbles, water balloons & more! Ages 6-10. 3-4 p.m. $10 fee. 705-5560.

Zelda’s Birthday Soiree The F. Scott and Zelda Fitzgerald Museum, Montgomery.

Jazz music, hors d’oeuvres, drinks and games. 6-10 p.m. www.fitzgeraldmuseum.net.

Wednesday, July 25

Patriot Park IMAX Free Summer Film 11:15 a.m. See July 24 for details.

Auburn High School RECONNECT Session for Juniors See July 24 for details.

Documentary series ‘Performing the Border’ Hosted by Women’s Resource Center. 311 Mary Martin Hall, Auburn Campus. 12:00 noon. Free. For additional information, contact Kristy Malone at kmm0021@ auburn.edu or (334) 844-4289.

Thursday, July 26

Farmers Market at Ag Heritage Park See July 19 for details.

Messy Madness Covington Rec Center. Want to make a mess and not get in trouble for it? Enjoy messy creations, food fights and slimy crafts! (Wear old clothes). 3-4 p.m. All ages. $10 fee. 705-5560.

2012 Carmike Summer Kid Series Bee Movie. Wynnsong Theater, Auburn. 10 a.m.

Celebrate the summer with movie and popcorn! Every Thursday this summer, bring the kids to see a favorite kid flick for $2. Includes the movie, popcorn and a drink!

Children’s Matinees Megamind. Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Family Calendar Free Family Film Festival “Shorts” Rave Motion Theatre, Montgomery. 9:30 a.m. 7925 Vaughn Road. www.ravemotionpictures.com.

Couponing 101 with Jackie Tutoring and Test Prep of Auburn, Dean Rd. (formerly Sylvan Learning Center). 6-8 p.m. Stop throwing away your money! Couponing is NOT what it use to be. Save 30% without ever using a coupon, add coupons and save between 30-70%. Registration required. $20 class fee.www.couponingwithjackie.com; Email watersjg@ knology.net; 334-444-1770.

Auburn High School RECONNECT Session for Seniors See July 24 for details.

Cinderella Kids Mountain Theatre Company Cabaret Theatre, Birmingham. Cinderella is mistreated by her wicked stepmother and stepsisters, and denied a chance to go to the Royal Ball. With help from her mice friends, and a Fairy Godmother, Cinderella goes to the ball, meets the Prince, and falls in love! www. redmountaintheatrecompany.org.

The Global Warming Tour Featuring Aerosmith And Cheap Trick Phillips Arena, Atlanta. www.ticketmaster.com.

Covington Movie Club See July 19 for details.

Friday, July 27

Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens See July 20 for details.

Summerfest The Pines Golf Course, Millbrook, Al. 6 p.m.

Summer celebration with live music by area bands.

Concessions available. Fireworks display at 9 p.m. www. cityofmillbrook.org.

Art Club ‘Utilitarian Designs’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts, Auburn University. Ages 7th-12th grade. 1 p.m. - 2:30 p.m. Art Clubs are an open studio that offers the opportunity for K-12 students to be creative while learning about art.

Sessions are free, but require preregistration by calling 334-844-3486. Parents are asked to stay at the museum for the session. www.jcsm.auburn.edu.

Family Theatre presents This Is My Country 7 p.m. 2100 Hamilton Rd. Columbus, Ga. 706-536-8052; $5 tickets. www.familytheatre.org.

Free Outdoor Movie Series Back to the Future, Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Rec. Bring your blankets and chairs to Duck Samford Park, Field 1, Auburn. Movies begin 15 minutes after sunset (approximately 8:30 p.m.). 501-2930.

Super WHY Live: You’ve Got the Power Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre, Atlanta, Ga. www. ticketmaster.com.

DockDogs World Championship Wild Card Event Stone Mountain Park, Ga. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. DockDogs is an action packed day of high flying dog jumping action.

DockDogs has three different competitions: Big Air, Speed Retrieve, and Extreme Vertical. Big Air is a long jump, Speed Retrieve is a timed event a canine drag race, and Extreme Vertical is a tall jump. We accept dogs of all breeds and ages as well as handlers 7 years of age and older - dogs that jump 1 foot and dogs that hold World Records of a massive Super Elite titled jumps of 31 feet! www.stonemountainpark.com.

Cinderella Kids See July 26 for details.

Children’s Matinees See July 26 for details.

Saturday, July 28

Market Days on Broadway See July 20 for details.

Young Eagles Day at Columbus Airport Free airplane rides for kids! Ages 8-17 yrs. 8:30-11:30

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a.m. (weather permitting). 706-323-0570.

Saturday Art Club ‘Sculpture’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts, Auburn University. K-2nd graders - 10-11:30 a.m. 3rd-6th graders - 12:30-2 p.m. Art Clubs are an open studio that offers the opportunity for K-12 students to be creative while learning about art. Sessions are free, but require preregistration by calling 334-844-3486. Parents are asked to stay at the museum for the session. www.jcsm. auburn.edu.

Lowe’s Build-and-Grow Kid’s Workshops “Kung Fu Panda Stacking Friends.” 10-11 a.m. Free hands-on learning clinic. Opelika. A great way to give your child the opportunity to participate in these pint-sized “How-to Clinics.” These clinics are designed specifically for kids from ages 5 through 12. An adult will need to bring the child and stay with him or her for the entire length of the workshop.

Free Dance Class at Celtic Traditions School of Irish Dance 2705 Frederick Road Suite 3, Opelika. Ages 3-5 years, 2-3 p.m. Ages 6 and up, 3-5 p.m. www.celtic-traditions. net.

AMPalooza presented by Russell Marine This year, Aquapalooza becomes AMPalooza on beautiful Lake Martin. Headlining this annual concert is the Charlie Daniels Band along with performances

by The Vegabonds, Rexton Lee and Brent Cobb. www. russellmarine.net.

Rediscover the Rails: Southwest Georgia’s Tourist Train See July 21 for details.

Cinderella Kids See July 26 for details.

DockDogs World Championship Wild Card Event See July 27 for details.

Sunday, July 29

“Battle It Out Blade” Benefit Concert Municipal Park, Opelika. 3-9 p.m. Join us for a benefit concert for a local boy with Leukemia from 3-9 p.m. at Opelika Municipal Park (aka The Monkey Park). The concert is free and based on donations in hopes to raise money to help the family with Blade’s medical expenses.

For more information, please contact Vicki Seton.

334.534.9140.

Lowe’s Build-and-Grow Kid’s Workshops 2-3 p.m. See July 28 for details.

Cinderella Kids See July 26 for details.

DockDogs World Championship Wild Card Event See July 27 for details.

Monday, July 30

Summer Astronomy Nights at Callaway Gardens See July 23 for details.

Free Family Film Festival “Ink Heart” Rave Motion Theatre, Montgomery. 9:30 a.m. 7925 Vaughn Road. www.ravemotionpictures.com.

Max Movie Mondays Alvin & The Chipmunks: Chip-Wrecked. Riverwalk Amphitheatre, Montgomery. Admission is free and the movies begin at Sundown, approximately 8 p.m. Bring the family, your blankets and catch a movie under the stars!

Tuesday, July 31

Opelika Farmer’s Market See July 24 for details.

Patriot Park IMAX Free Summer Film Iron Giant. National Infantry Museum, 1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, GA. 9 a.m.

Summer Swing Concert “Martha’s Trouble” Sponsored by Opelika Parks and Rec. Municipal Park, Opelika. Bring blankets and chairs for an evening of concerts in the park. 705-5560.

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A Celebration: The Wiggles! Live in Concert Fox Theatre, Atlanta.www.ticketmaster.com.

The Tour 2012: Kiss and Motley Crue Oak Mountain Amphitheatre, Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com.

Wednesday, August 1

Adventure Day! Covington Rec Center, Opelika. 1-4 p.m. Ages 5-12 yrs.

Fee $10. Spend your afternoon on a scavenger hunt!

705-5560.

Patriot Park IMAX Free Summer Film 11:15 a.m. See July 31 for details.

Thursday, August 2

Farmers Market at Ag Heritage Park See July 19 for details.

3rd Annual Farewell Summer Block Party Sponsored by Chick-fil-A Magnolia. 6 p.m. Town Creek Park, Auburn. Enjoy a free concert, purchase food on-site from Chick-fil-A on Magnolia Avenue, enter for a chance to win door prizes, and pick up coupons and sales tax holiday weekend specials. The first 300 people in attendance will receive coupons and specials from Auburn merchants. Limit one bag per family. Attendees will also have a chance to enter to win door prizes, courtesy of the Auburn Chamber of Commerce.

Live Owl Education Program Dean Rd Rec Center, Auburn. 6-7:30 p.m. Ages 6-12 yrs. Have you ever wondered where owls go during the day? Or what they eat? Or how to attract them to your yard? This is a great opportunity to learn about our forest friends. The instructor will use live owls to demonstrate an owl’s special ears, silent flight, and different prey.

Children can watch a live Barred Owl eat his lunch, learn to identify different “hoots,” and learn how to attract owls to their yard. They will also get to meet Saber “The largest species of owl in the world.” Bring your camera to class! Fee $12.50. owlshows@yahoo.com.

2012 Carmike Summer Kid Series Monsters vs. Aliens. Wynnsong Theater, Auburn. 10 a.m.

Celebrate the summer with movie and popcorn! Every Thursday this summer, bring the kids to see a favorite kid flick for $2. This includes the movie, popcorn and a drink!

Free Family Film Festival “Ink Heart” Rave Motion Theatre, Montgomery. 9:30 a.m. 7925 Vaughn Road. www.ravemotionpictures.com.

Children’s Matinees Antz. Capri Theatre, Montgomery. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org.

Dearly Departed Red Door Theatre, Union Springs, Al. www. reddoortheatre.org.

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Opelika Unplugged Event Center Downtown, Opelika. 7 p.m. A performance platform for songwriters and musicians. Admission is free. www.eventcenterdowntown.net.

Children’s Matinees See August 2 for details.

First Fridays “Shop Late, Eat Local” Downtown Opelika. On the First Friday of each month, downtown Opelika shops will stay open until 8 p.m. so that diners of our downtown restaurants can shop before or after they eat. This is a great opportunity for those that work during retail hours to see what the Downtown shops have to offer. There will also be entertainment on street corners for everyone’s enjoyment.

“Back To School” Sales Tax Holiday Beginning at 12:01 a.m. (CST) on Friday and ending at twelve midnight on Sunday, Alabama will hold its seventh annual sales tax holiday giving shoppers the opportunity to purchase certain school supplies, computers, and clothing free of state sales or use tax.

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Local sales and use tax may apply. For more info- 334242-1490 or 866-576-6531; For a list of exempt items, www.revenue.alabama.gov/salestax.

First Friday Night Tennis Mixer Join the Auburn Community Tennis Association at the City of Auburn/Auburn University Yarbrough Tennis Center. Citizens ages 19 and up are encouraged to play. www.auburnalabama.org/tennis or 501-2920.

Fresh Music Festival Columbus Civic Center, Columbus, Ga. A celebration of the best in R&B, Hip/Hop, Soul and Comedy. This year’s festival features an absolutely outstanding lineup with some of today’s hottest performers. Kick off your summer with a party! www.columbusciviccenter.org.

Art Club ‘Drawing Madhouse’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts, Auburn University. Ages 7th-12th grade. 1 p.m.-2:30 p.m. See July 27 for more info.

Back to School Ice Cream Social Covington Rec Center, Opelika. 1-2 p.m. Ages 5-12 yrs.

Fee $5. Cool off from the heat with ice cream. Decorate sundaes while meeting new kids right before school starts. 705-5560.

Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens See July 20 for details.

FSU Flying High Circus at Callaway Gardens www.callawaygardens.com.

Dearly Departed See August 2 for details.

Saturday, August 4

The Southside Market See July 21 for details.

Market Days on Broadway See July 20 for details.

Sensory Sensitive Movie Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Carmike Ritz 13, Columbus, Ga. 11 a.m. These movies are geared towards families with children on the Autism Spectrum (and others with sensory issues). Some special features will include turning on the lights about halfway, turning down the sound, and throwing out the “no noise” restriction.

Families may choose to bring in their own special dietary food or purchase from the concession stand. mcasg.net.

“Back To School” Sales Tax Holiday See August 3 for details.

Wetumpka Crater The Forest Ecology Preserve, Auburn. 10 a.m. Join us for a program presented by Dr. David King, an Auburn University’s geology professor, on the Wetumpka Crater at the Preserve’s Pavilion. The Wetumpka Crater was discovered in 1969-70 but evidence of its impact was lacking until help from Dr. King and colleagues in 1998. $3 for non-members, $2 for members. www.auburn.edu/ preserve.

Inventing a New Navy Port Columbus presents Cool History 2012. Port Columbus, Ga. 1-4 p.m. www.portcolumbus.org/events.

Saturday Art Club ‘Painting’ Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Arts, Auburn University. K-2nd graders - 10-11:30 a.m. 3rd-6th graders - 12:30-2 p.m. See July 28 for more info.

Bruce Michael Miller Songwriter Workshop Sponsored by Nashville Songwriters Association and Opelika Unplugged. Event Center Downtown. 1-4 p.m. $25 non-members, $20 members. www.eventcenterdowntown.net.

Obsessed: A Christian music and ministry festival The Amp at Lake Martin. Gates open 5 p.m. Featuring Jonny Diaz, with guests Kevin & Jordyn Boyer and Raised in Glory; Event speaker: Ross Kilpatrick. Event benefits Food for the Hungry. Tickets are $5 in advance, and $8 at the gate. Tickets and t-shirts can be purchased in advance by contacting Mt. Olive Church, 492 Kent Rd., Tallassee, at 334.415.9086.

Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

Saturday, August 11

Dearly Departed See August 2 for details.

Sunday, August 5

Dearly Departed See August 2 for details.

“Stars on the Riverfront” Riverwalk Amphitheater, Montgomery. 7:30 p.m. Two free performances by Alabama Dance Theater. www. alabamadancetheatre.com.

American Idol Live Tour Gwinnett Center, Duluth, Ga. www.ticketmaster.com.

“Back To School” Sales Tax Holiday See August 3 for details.

Monday, August 6

“Stars on the Riverfront” See August 5 for details.

Ceramic Summer Camp Opelika Parks and Rec. 3:30-4:30 p.m. Fee $15. 7055560.

9th Annual Alabama Wildlife Youth Fishing Rodeo Lanark Park, Millbrook. 7-11 a.m. Ages 15 years and younger. Free admission, however, need to pre-register.

Each young angler will receive a t-shirt and will be eligible for door prizes. Snacks and drinks will also be available. In addition, each participant may take home five catfish each, but may catch and release all they would like. 334-285-4550.

Summer Astronomy Nights at Callaway Gardens See July 23 for details.

Tuesday, August 7

Opelika Farmer’s Market See July 24 for details.

Summer Swing Concert “Back to School Bash featuring Route 66”. Sponsored by Opelika Parks and Rec. Municipal Park, Opelika. Bring blankets and chairs for an evening of concerts in the park.

705-5560.

Ceramic Summer Camp See Aug. 6 for details.

Wednesday, August 8

Ceramic Summer Camp See Aug. 6 for details.

Children’s Matinees How To Train Your Dragon. Capri Theatre, Montgomery.

10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.capritheatre.org.

Thursday, August 9

Farmers Market at Ag Heritage Park See July 19 for details.

Cocktails in The Gardens The Hill Garden, Birmingham Botanical Gardens. A one-of-a-kind night of music, food, mixing, mingling and cocktails to raise awareness of Birmingham Botanical Gardens activities and opportunities among young professionals, students, and the young at heart. 5:30-8:30 p.m. www.bbgardens.org.

2012 Carmike Summer Kid Series Megamind. Wynnsong Theater, Auburn. 10 a.m.

Celebrate the summer with movie and popcorn! Every Thursday this summer, bring the kids to see a favorite kid flick for $2. This includes the movie, popcorn and a drink!

Children’s Matinees How To Train Your Dragon. See Aug. 8 for details.

Friday, August 10

Auburn University Welcome Week August 10-18, Welcome Week is a special time of year. It is when we welcome new students to the Auburn Family. www.auburn.edu.

Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens See July 20 for details.

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Second Saturday @ Lee County Historical Society Museum 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. On the second Saturday of every month, a group of history re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts. Blacksmiths are working at the forge, spinners and weavers are in the textile room, the gardeners are in the gardens, crafts and seasonal activities are scheduled, and someone is always cooking up a meal in the fireplace or outdoors. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org.

Lowe’s Build-and-Grow Kid’s Workshops “Shrek Dragon Ride.” 10-11 a.m. See July 28 for details.

Football Fest Dothan Civic Center. 5-9 p.m. Samples of tailgating foods, and collegiate football merchandise for sale. There will be trivia contests and prizes, and the highlight of the evening is a keynote address from former Alabama coach Gene Stallings at 7 p.m. General admission seating for the speech is just $10. VIP reserved seating that also includes a steak dinner and a meet and greet with Coach Stallings is available for $100 to the first 250 people who sign up. More information is available at www. wiregrassfootballfest.com.

Couponing 101 with Jackie 2-4 p.m. See July 26 for details.

Second Saturday Riverfront Festivals Downtown Montgomery. 5-8 p.m. Music, food, fun for the whole family!

Market Days on Broadway See July 20 for details.

Sunday, August 12

Second Sunday: On the Right Track Oxbow Meadows. Columbus. 2 p.m. Join Oxbow’s naturalist Jan Forrest Kent for a lesson on identifying the tracks of local wildlife. Then experience the thrill of seeing those animal tracks firsthand as we venture out for a hike on the wetland trail! $3fee. www.oxbow.columbusstate.edu.

Lowe’s Build-and-Grow Kid’s Workshops “Shrek Dragon Ride.” 2-3 p.m. See July 28 for details.

Monday, August 13

OLLI Brown Bag Lunch and Learn Auburn Chamber of Commerce. 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m.

Terry Ley, Writing Our Lives. All meetings are open to the public and are free of cost. Participants should bring their own lunch and drink. www.olliatauburn.org.

Food Allergy Support of East Alabama “Back to School” Meeting EAMC Health Resource Center, Pepperell Pkwy near hospital. 6 p.m. Dr. Tole of East Alabama Allergy and Asthma will be our guest speaker. To sign up for the meeting or for more information email Barbara at bkg2007@bellsouth.net or call 334-826-3082. www. foodallergysupporteastal.org.

Tuesday, August 14 Opelika Farmer’s Market See July 24 for details.

Friday, August 17

Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens See July 20 for details.

19th Annual Buckmasters Expo August 17-19, Montgomery. This yearly hunting show is one of the largest, with more than 300 exhibitors and plenty to do and see. The event includes the Buckmasters Top Bow Indoor Championship, Young Bucks activities, deer scoring, a hunter education course and BTR scoring class, and a dock dogs event. And on Saturday night, there’s also a concert. www.buckmasters.com.

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Family Calendar Saturday, August 18

Brewfest Event Center Downtown, Opelika. www.eventcenterdowntown.net.

Dothan Artifact Show WestGate Gym, Dothan. 8 a.m. - 3 p.m. Multiple vendors with different Indian Artifacts. There will be display cases, pipes, bowls, spears, arrowheads, clothing, jewelry, books, educational displays, etc. Pre-Columbian, Civil War relics, fossils, & related artifacts are allowed.

There will be a flint knapping demo during the show.

Reproductions are allowed only if they are labeled as such. www.dothanshow.com.

MainStreet Alexander City Annual Auction Alliant Bank Main Branch, Alexander City. 6-10 p.m.

The works of local artisans and goods and services from local merchants are up for bid in this time-honored annual event. www.mainstreetac.org.

Muster on the Tallapoosa Bicentennial Programs Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, Alexander City.

9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free! www.nps.gov/hobe.

8th Annual Stokin’ the Fire BBQ Festival Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark.

The Southside Market See July 21 for details.

Market Days on Broadway See July 20 for details.

Float In Movie Series presents Jaws Auburn Samford Pool. Ages 19 and up. Admission is free to splash pass holders or $2/person. Space is limited; first come, first serve. 501-2930.

Live Owl Education Program 9-10:30 a.m. See August 2 for details.

Alabama Nature Center Public Weekend August 18-19. Millbrook. Enjoy hiking five miles of

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scenic ANC trails while learning about the fascinating natural history of central Alabama. www.alabamawildlife.org.

Clay Walker Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. www.ticketmaster.com.

Looking Ahead...

August 20. OLLI Brown Bag Lunch and Learn Auburn Chamber of Commerce. 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Tracy Donald, Accessible Technology at AU. All meetings are open to the public and are free.

Participants should bring their own lunch and drink. www.olliatauburn.org.

August 20. Elvis! The Early Years Alabama Shakespeare Festival. One Night Only!

7:30 p.m. www.asf.net.

August 20-21. The Little Mermaid, Jr. Auditions New Horizon Theatre, West Point, Ga. Auditions open for grades 1-12. 7 p.m. Eastern. www.nhct.org.

August 20. First day of school for Auburn and Opelika City Schools.

August 21. Opelika Farmer’s Market The Courthouse Square. 2-5 p.m. The Market will open each Tuesday this summer, rain or shine, provides fresh regional produce, homemade ice cream, and fresh baked goods. For more information, contact Pam Powers-Smith, 745.0466.

August 23. Farmers Market at Ag Heritage Park Auburn. 3-6 p.m. An open-air farmers’ market offering locally produced fruits, vegetables, honey, ornamental plants, herbs, flowers, eggs, goat milk, soaps, baked goods and more! In addition, it often features the work of local artisans, educational booths, and musical entertainment. 334.321.1603.

August 24. Sundilla Acoustic Concert Series ‘Randall Bramblett’.

Auburn Unitarian Universalist Fellowship.

7:30 p.m. $12 admission, $10 in advance at Gnu’s Room. www.sundilla.org.

August 24. Farmers Market @ Callaway Gardens Robin Lake Beach Dome, Callaway Gardens. 4-7 p.m. $5 admission. A variety of local and regional vendors selling fruits and vegetables, including those grown right here in Callaway Gardens’ own Mr. Cason’s Vegetable Garden; meats and dairy products; baked goods; soaps, sauces and other specialty items; and flowers and plants. Additionally, demonstrations and children’s activities ensure a fun and interactive learning environment for all ages. www.callawaygardens. com.

August 24-26. 14th Annual Sidewalk Moving Picture Festival Birmingham.

August 25. Lowe’s Build-and-Grow Kid’s Workshops “Shrek Onion Carriage.”

10-11 a.m. Free hands-on

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learning clinic. Opelika. A great way to give your child the opportunity to participate in these pintsized “How-to Clinics.” These clinics are designed specifically for kids from ages 5 through 12. An adult will need to bring the child and stay with him or her for the entire length of the workshop.

August 25. ABC of Bats Montgomery Zoo. 10 a.m. - 12 noon. Learn more about these winged creatures that fly about in the night. These creatures are found all over the world... including your backyard and neighbor. Ages 4-10 years. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

August 25. Young Eagles Day at Columbus Airport Free airplane rides for kids! Ages 8-17 years. 8:3011:30 a.m. (weather permitting). 706-323-0570.

August 25. 13th Annual Muster on the Tallapoosa Horseshoe Bend National Military Park, Alexander City. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Free. 256-234-7111.

August 25. Market Days on Broadway Columbus, Ga. 9 a.m. - 12 noon. 706-596-0111.

Grab your recyclable grocery bag and head down to Broadway to pick up locally grown produce, homemade baked goods, artwork, flowers, plants and handcrafted items!

August 25. Dragon Boat Race & Festival Riverfront Park, Montgomery. 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Free. This year’s festival promises to be even more spectacular. Bring your family and friends to the river and watch local participants paddle their way to the finish line. Better yet, join a team. www. montgomerydragonboat.org.

August 26. Lowe’s Build-and-Grow Kid’s Workshops “Shrek Onion Carriage.” 2-3 p.m. Free hands-on learning clinic. Opelika. A great way to give your child the opportunity to participate in these pintsized “How-to Clinics.” These clinics are designed specifically for kids from ages 5 through 12. An adult will need to bring the child and stay with him or her for the entire length of the workshop.

August 27. OLLI Brown Bag Lunch and Learn Auburn Chamber of Commerce. 11:30 a.m. -1:30 p.m. Lolly Steiner, Auburn Chamber of Commerce.

All meetings are open to the public and are free of cost. Participants should bring their own lunch and drink. www.olliatauburn.org.

August 28. Opelika Farmer’s Market The Courthouse Square. 2-5 p.m. The Market will open each Tuesday this summer, rain or shine, provides fresh regional produce, homemade ice cream, and fresh baked goods. For more information, contact Pam Powers-Smith, 745.0466.

August 30 - September 9. SEUSSICAL Family Musical. Main Stage Theatre, Newnan Theatre, Newnan, Ga. www.newnantheatre.org.

August 31 - September 2. Sky High Hot Air Balloon Festival; Callaway Gardens.www.callaway. org.

August 31. Taste of 4th Avenue Jazz Festival Historic 4th Avenue Business District, Birmingham.

2-9 p.m. www.justataste.org.

August 31. Friday Night Splash Auburn Parks and Rec. 6-8 p.m. Enjoy free swim, games, a cookout, music, and much more! FREE admission with Splash Pass or $2/person. 501-2957.

Please send your calendar events to kendra @auburnopelikaparents.com by the 5th of the month. It’s FREE! Advertising: 334-209-0552

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Parenting

on the Plains

by Dr. Polly Dunn

Keep Your Clutter Under Control I hate clutter! But with four kids, there are times when I feel like I’m drowning in it! Don’t get me wrong, I’m no candidate for the show Hoarders, but I still need to make an effort not to be swallowed by the stuff in my home each and every day. Here are my top ten daily tips for keeping your home (and mine) clutter free: 1. Every morning, make the bed! It’s a great start to the day.

2. With school starting soon, have a designated space for your children to put their backpacks, papers, and shoes when they get home. Work with them to put their items in their correct place, and their stuff won’t be thrown all over the floor or missing when they need it fast.

and the next have every flat surface filled with papers, groceries, school work, toys, work supplies, and everything in between! Set a goal to keep piles of papers and other things that don’t belong off the counters!

8. Before bed, make sure all the dishes are in the dishwasher and the sink is clean.

This is a classic Fly Lady.com technique, and I’ll be the first to admit that I sure do feel better when my sink is clean!

9. At the end of the day, have your children put their toys where they belong. No toys on the floor at bedtime, every item should have a home. Teach them young that if they make a mess that they are responsible for cleaning it up.

10. And last but not least, once a week give yourself permission to watch an episode of some sort of decluttering show.

They’ll give you helpful tips and examples of what you don’t want your house to become! It’s always motivational for me and quite an eye opener of how a small mess can spiral out of control.

Dr. Polly Dunn received her Ph.D. from Auburn University in 1999. She is a Licensed Clinical Psychologist and currently serves as the Director of the Auburn University Psychological Services Center, a position she has held for over ten years. Dr. Dunn is also the founder of www.ChildPsychMom.com where she blogs about what works and what doesn’t in her hectic life as a child psychologist, wife, and mom of four.

3. My favorite decluttering guru, Peter Walsh, stresses the need to keep a donation box or basket in an accessible area of your home. Once it’s filled, take the items to the charity of your choice. Don’t wait until you have a big load. Just put the basket in your car and go!

4. Another Peter Walsh tip is to carry a trash bag around your house once a day and fill it with things that need to be tossed. After a few days of doing this, you will notice a huge difference.

5. When the laundry is finished, fold it and put it away. No need for it to stack up and take up space throughout the house.

Get your kids involved in helping with the laundry, too. Even toddlers can help match socks!

6. Throw away the junk mail as soon as it comes in. Don’t stack it up on the kitchen counter. Instead, on your way in from the mailbox trash the junk mail before it becomes another pile.

y !

7. Keep counters and tables clean. My house can be perfectly clean one minute

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Visit www.AuburnOpelikaParents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

Katy Perry: Part of Me

The Amazing Spider-Man

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: C+ Violence: B+ Sexual Content: C+ Language: B Alcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated Katy Perry: Part of Me PG for some suggestive content, language, thematic elements and brief smoking.

“Be yourself and you can be anything,” might be a good movie tag line but it is far from true. Still, who am I to argue with Katy Perry, the only singer, after Michael Jackson, to have five number one singles from one studio album.

If all that fame wasn’t enough, she is following the lead of teen idols Miley Cyrus and Justin Bieber and bringing the cameras backstage to document her Part of Me world tour. While most of the film focuses on concert clips, the documentary also includes brief footage of her childhood. The daughter of traveling Pentecostal Christian ministers (Keith and Mary Perry Hudson), she grew up with gospel music. Secular tunes, literature and influences were banned. So to say that her current lifestyle clashes with her upbringing is an understatement. Even her parents and grandmother, though still involved in her life, don’t appear to fully embrace what the wig-wearing musician has become.

On tour, with stage sets that look to be straight out of a Candy Land board game, the former Christian music singer prances around on the platform in colorful, fantastical costumes. Her most famous one may be the peppermint party dress with spinning discs strategically placed on her chest. (She does something similar with what looks like oversized Hershey Kiss candies.) But it is unclear whether or not her inclusion of an Alice in Wonderland costume (a story she was denied as a child) is outright rebellion or just an expression of her individualism.

Without the benefit of sound, her shows look like the perfect party for the tween and teen crowd (though some of the dance moves are suggestive.) But listen and all this outwardly sugary innocence is laced with sexually-themed lyrics. Pop princess or not, there is just something wrong about watching her earnest, starry-eyed young fans sing along to lyrics like “let you put your hands on me in my skin-tight jeans” (Teenage Dream), “No, I don’t even know your name. It doesn’t matter, You’re my experimental game,” (I Kissed a Girl) and “Kiss her, touch her, squeeze her buns…Sun-kissed skin, so hot we’ll melt your popsicle,” (California Gurls).

How long her chart-topping success continues remains to be seen. I’m sure she hopes this is an extended fireworks show. But for her adoring fans that leave the theater believing they too can be anything they want, the sad truth is some fireworks -- and dreams -- are duds that burn out quickly, leaving only smoke and ashes behind.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: D+ Sexual Content: B Language: BAlcohol / Drug Use: B+ The MPAA has rated The Amazing Spider-Man PG-13 for sequences of action and violence.

As if high school wasn’t tough enough already, Peter Parker (Andrew Garfield) has just been bitten -- by the love bug and by a genetically enhanced spider. Dealing with the love bug may be normal for high school students, but the spider is quite another matter. After stumbling upon several sheets of handwritten notes belonging to his deceased father, Peter tracks down his dad’s former scientific partner, Dr. Curt Connors (Rhys Ifans) at his research company. It is in his lab that the awkward science student is stung by an eightlegged arachnid. While this event results in Peter acquiring extraordinary strength and heightened sensory ability, confidence isn’t part of the package.

He still stammers and sweats whenever he attempts to talk to fellow student Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone).

Considering it’s been just a scant five years since the theatrical release of the final film of the Toby Maguire adaptations, it seems rather early to be rebooting the comic book series with another actor donning the red and blue bodysuit -- especially when the script covers pretty much the same ground as Maguire’s Spider-Man. This version does offer a brief glimpse of Peter’s parents (Campbell Scott, Embeth Davidtz) when they drop him off at the home of his Uncle Ben and Aunt May (Martin Sheen, Sally Field) on a dark and stormy night. But beyond that the story details differ in only minor ways.

Garfield’s Spidey has more human foibles and his vulnerability becomes an issue. Driven by his guilt over his uncle’s death, the young man seeks revenge on every longhaired crook he comes across. Yet he doesn’t always fare well, often coming home from these encounters with bruises and bloody lacerations.

While Peter Parker’s life is a far cry from that of billionaire Bruce Wayne who reappears in this summer’s movie The Dark Knight Rises, his man-of-the-streets persona may make him more accessible to audiences than Batman. This hero’s human limitations also motivate fellow New Yorkers to do their part to stop a gigantic lizard that is attacking the city. Though the community cooperation might be commendable, parents will want to listen to their spidey senses before taking young viewers to see this black-and-blue superhero in action.

What Parents need to know about The Amazing Spider-Man...

Violence: Students are bullied at school, including being hit, kicked and humiliated. A man robs a store and later shoots and kills a man during a struggle.

Blood is shown. Characters fight in an alley. Numerous bloody injuries are shown. A monster crushes cars and throws them over the side of a bridge.

Later he attacks civilians and police officers, destroys buildings and fights with several characters. A man is seen with bloody gashes on his chest. Characters are chased and threatened in a school. A character is repeatedly shot, with body parts blown off. Frequent gunshots are depicted. A man is impaled and dies from his bloody injuries. A man is shot in the chest and later the leg.

Sexual Content: A character inadvertently rips a woman’s shirt off exposing her bra. A high school couple kisses passionately on a couple of occasions.

Language: The script contains infrequent profanities, some vulgarities and several terms of Deity.

What Parents need to know about Katy Perry: Part of Me...

Violence: A woman admits to stealing from her employer.

Sexual Content: Some revealing and suggestive costumes are worn. Some characters are seen in bra-like clothing or underwear. A couple kisses and embraces. Themes of sexuality are portrayed throughout. Girls wear bikinis.

Language: The script contains brief profanities, crude language and some sexually suggestive song lyrics.

Alcohol / Drug Use: Brief depictions of smoking and alcohol are included.

Other: Brief flatulence jokes are included.

Auburn-Opelika Parents I August 2012

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Advertising: 334-209-0552

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