Auburn Opelika Parents July 2016 by KeepSharing

BEST PARTY EVER

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RESERVE YOUR MY GYM BIRTHDAY PARTY TODAY! Millions of kids agree. (334) 246-0987 300 N. Dean Road • Auburn, AL 36830 auburn@mygym.com mygym.com/auburn MyGymAuburn

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July2016 24

Volume 7 Number 5

Columns

Publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Note Kendra Sumner

Living With Children John Rosemond

Chill the Chore Wars Discover age-appropriate chores and tips to help them have the right attitude.

Growing Up Online

Keeping your teens vacation photos G-rated starts with these helpful tips.

Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

A Page in a Book

Gerry Paige Smith

Growing Up Online Carolyn Jabs

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Birthday Party Rescue Birthday Party Guide Ideas for creating a special day for your child...even when you are drained.

From cakes to venues to entertainment and more, our guide helps you plan the perfect party!

Centsibly Southern Chic Laura Handey

Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

On The Cover Happy Birthday to Juan Reyes! He lives in Auburn and recently graduated from Auburn High School last month. His future plans include furthering his education at Southern Union Community College. Because of his enthusiasm of working with technology, Juan plans to major in the field of Computer Science. Other interests include helping in the family business at Laredo Mexican Restaurant. Thanks to the Reyes family for the festive birthday backdrop!

Departments 6

Bits and Pieces 9

School Bits 40

Family Calendar 48

Movie Reviews 1

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Publisher’sNote What do we all have in common? A birthday every single year…that’s what! Each year, in my house, we celebrate six birthdays and I just love it! We have a February, March, 4th of July firecracker, two in September and a Christmas baby. Having them somewhat spread throughout the year makes it much easier to manage one party at a time. However, there were times that we joined our daughter’s winter parties and our son’s mid-year parties into one big, adventurous party for the boys and one sparkly, spa day party for the girls. It just made planning those events less stressful when our schedules were full and time was scarce. Let’s face it. The daily life of any family can be scheduled to the max with school, work, family vacations and other needs that can pop up and cause life to become chaotic at times. For example, my Christmas baby’s birthday is December 23. Factor in seasonal decorating, school and church holiday programs, festive parties, shopping and cleaning the house for guests, and you can see that we are not only maxed out on the December events, but on stress overload! Having to plan for a birthday party too just adds to that stress. On the other hand, we decided, on that very first birthday, that all her future birthday milestones would not take a backseat to Christmas or cause Reagan to feel her birthday is unimportant or just another item on the to-do list in December. This month’s feature article, Birthday Party Rescue: Creating a Special Day When You’re Drained, has some helpful ideas on how to juggle it all, while keeping the stress to a minimum. One tip that I use all the time is to go off-location. It reduces my anxiety when planning a birthday if I can find a suitable location somewhere other than my home. Our annual Birthday Party Planning Guide can help with some great places to party such as CyberZone, My Gym, Kreher Preserve & Nature Center or any of the Auburn Parks and Recreation locations. I have to say that I have utilized these party spots throughout the year and it was the best idea ever! Another strategy to try is to simplify the usual. This tip has rescued me from many party disasters. Those who know me and my love for party planning know that my favorite part of the celebration is the reveal of the cake! I am guilty of planning a party around an amazing cake idea...perfectly designed by my favorite local designers and elaborate details. My cake centerpieces have ranged from a teapot (with a handle), a two-tiered paint bucket with palette and brushes, and a giant, realistic looking snake and frog. But some parties, it made more sense to quickly order a color batch of cupcakes from the local bakery, and in turn, save the day and my blood pressure. Guests appreciate any form of cake and the birthday kid is thrilled to just make a wish and blow out those candles! Hang on to this year’s Birthday Party Planning edition for a quick resource throughout your family’s year of party planning. Whether you are looking for a unique location to host from, a fun bounce house to entertain, or a bakery to save the day, you will find some great local businesses, with just the flip of a page or two. From one parent to another, focus on the birthday girl or boy instead of the process of planning the event. Decide what works for your family and leave the stress out. Your celebration will be a success!

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

Auburn Opelika Lee County’s Foremost Parenting Source

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

Publisher Kendra Sumner Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com Editor DeAnne Watson Associate Editor Kelly Watson Contributing Writers Laura Handey Carolyn Jabs Judy M. Miller Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith Katie Wolter, M.D. Laurie Zottmann Cover Photography Candy Avera www.pictureperfectbycandy.com

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

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 1204 Owens Road Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303. Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2016 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Does Choosing One’s Battles Decrease Rebellion? Q:

While exploring your website, I ran across a column you wrote a while back about a 13-year-old who wanted a Mohawk haircut. You told the parents not to allow it, pointing out that if you give most teenagers an inch, they’re eventually going to push for a mile. I think it’s generally wise for parents to say yes to small things so that it really means something when they say no. Doesn’t choosing one’s battles carefully reduce the likelihood of rebellion?

You’ve made a good point, which is that parental micromanagement can lead to rebellion (but the operative word is can, as opposed to will). I’ve lost count of the number of times I’ve used this column to rail against that now-ubiquitous parenting style. But micromanagement is not simply saying no three times, say, more than yes; it is an ongoing pattern of (a) protecting a child from experiencing the consequences of his own decisions or potential decisions, (b) preventing a child from making non-life-or-health-threatening mistakes, and (c) making discretionary (e.g. recreational)

decisions for a child. Micromanagement is not insisting that a child properly reflect his parents’ values in his behavior, appearance, and social choices. That is part and parcel of the proper discipline of a child. A Mohawk may, in certain family circumstances, reflect parental values. So be it. However, concerning the question to which you refer, it clearly did not. It would have reflected a contrary, even rebellious, attitude toward those values. That is precisely why the parents were seeking my advice. Parents should not say yes to rebellious things, even if the child in question is not and never has been rebellious. I have heard too many parents say, with great regret, that shortly after giving a non-rebellious child permission to acquire some rebellious symbol (T-shirt emblazoned with a disrespectful message, sexually provocative clothing, peculiar haircut, abnormal hair coloring, punk or goth clothing, tattoo, body piercing, earlobe thingamajig) things began going rapidly downhill.

Right. The rebellious symbol attracts the attention of rebellious kids who encourage other rebellious behavior on the part of the previously non-rebellious kid who begins to want the approval of the rebellious kids which he can only obtain by beginning to act in increasingly rebellious ways and pretty soon everyone is shaking their heads and asking what in the world happened. Today’s parents often cite two nouveau adages—“choose your battles carefully” and “don’t sweat the small stuff”—as rationale for not saying no to certain requests. What they do not seem to realize is that almost all of the big stuff begins as small stuff. A relatively small act of defiance, overlooked, blossoms into full-blown rebellion within three months, for example. That is precisely why I tell parents that when it comes to teenagers, the three most applicable adages are “give ‘em an inch and they will take a mile,” “nip it in the bud,” and “better safe than sorry.” Those are very old-fashioned, which prompts a fourth adage: There is nothing new under the sun. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

J J C H T A C K E H P L C M L B A A M T I E

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

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334-740-5118 www.aupointe.com E: danceauburnpointe@gmail.com

School of Dance

Allegro Dance Company auditions following Open House August 6 from 2-4 pm (see website for details)

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

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Annual Fourth of July Celebration

Back to School Ice Cream Social

Come cool off at the Back to School Ice Cream Social July 22 at the Covington Center, Opelika. Kids ages 5-12 years are invited to swing by and taste the end of summer with ice cream sundaes you decorate, while meeting new kids right before school starts! Ice Cream fun begins at 1:00 p.m. and the cost of admission is $5.00. www.opelika.org

Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation and Briggs & Stratton, July 4th is the date to experience this year’s annual 4th of July spectacular. Bring a blanket and grab a perfect spot behind the home side of Duck Samford Football Stadium, 1600 East University Drive, Auburn. Enjoy great food, live music, free goodies courtesy of Briggs and Stratton, and THE best fireworks display in the entire area. The night’s entertainment will feature Reuben’s Bell, a southern band with a modern twist. So grab your picnic basket, blanket and the family and join us for a fabulous night of entertainment and a chance to show your patriotic spirit! Gates open at 6 p.m. Entertainment begins at 7 p.m. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. The rain date is Tuesday, July 5th. www.auburnalabama.org

Zumba Powerthon! Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation

Shed your alter ego and join your fellow superheroes for a FREE Zumba Powerthon on July 9, 9:00-11:00 a.m., in celebration of National Park and Recreation Month! This year’s theme is: When Our Powers Combine, We Change Lives! Discover your super powers at your local parks and recreation! Your favorite Zumba instructors from the Auburn-Opelika area will be there to lead 100 minutes of super powered Zumba moves. Prizes will be awarded for the best costume, so make sure to dress up! FREE to the public. 235 Opelika Road, Auburn. 334-501-2930.

ArtyPants for Rising K-2nd Graders

Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn, will host an art club for kids in kindergarten through 2nd grade. Those smarty arty kids have plenty to do at JCSM on Saturday mornings! ArtyPants gives your child the opportunity to explore a wide range of materials, make new friends, and create their own art. July 9: Over-Under, Over-Under-Sewing and weaving can be done using a wide range of materials, for some really cool effects. Crafty ideas on Pinterest and Etsy might inspire you to create some cool fabric, yarn, and sewn objects. Mark your calendars for July 9, 10-11:30 a.m. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

Radical Reptiles at Oxbow Meadows!

Our live performance, science shows are sure to add a little excitement to the summer heat. You will get up close with snakes, pythons, alligators, and giant tortoises! Take a shellfie with your favorite! June 28, 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m., 1 p.m. Admission: $5 per person. www.oxbow.columbus.edu

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Opelika Freedom Celebration

64th Annual Opelika Freedom Celebration is sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation and The Orthopedic Clinic. On July 3 at the Opelika High School Track, the city will celebrate America’s birthday! Join us at 6:30 p.m. with fireworks at dark. There will be inflatable games, hamburgers, hotdogs, popcorn, activities for the whole family and entertainment by Route 66. Please call (334) 705-5560 or visit www.opelika. org/opr for more information.

4th of July Blast Concert and Fireworks

July 4, bring the family and find your spot on the soft grass at The Amp, Lake Martin. Take in the sights and sounds that will fill The Amp and the sky over Russell Lands On Lake Martin. The sky will burst into a thousand different colors during this annual event! For 16 years, Russell Lands On Lake Martin has hosted the Southeast’s Largest Fireworks Show over Lake Martin, and this year will be no different! The gates to The AMP will open at 5 p.m., with a concert featuring Sweet Tea and guest The Bank Walkers beginning at 6:30 p.m. www. theamponlakemartin.com

Opelika Farmer’s Market Presents OGrows

1103 Glenn Street, Opelika. 3-6 p.m. Come walk around the square each Tuesday this summer from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to find fresh, local produce ranging from heirloom tomatoes to collard greens. You may even find some fresh bread, homemade ice cream or local honey. www.facebook.com/opelikagrows

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Fireworks, Insects and Playground Safety Tips With summer comes a variety of fun outdoor activities. Some of those include fireworks and more playground time. Although this leads to more fun and increased physical activity, it can also lead to injuries. Unfortunately, along with more outdoor time comes more exposure to insects. It is therefore imperative that our children remain as safe as possible while participating in these activities. Below are some safety tips from the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) designed to create a protective environment and minimize injuries:

FIREWORKS SAFETY

• Fireworks can result in severe burns, blindness, scars, and even death. • Fireworks that are often thought to be safe, such as sparklers, can reach temperatures above 1000 degrees Fahrenheit, and can burn users and bystanders. • Families should attend community fireworks displays run by professionals rather than using fireworks at home. • The AAP recommends prohibiting public sale of all fireworks, including those by mail or the Internet.

BUG SAFETY • Avoid areas where insects nest or congregate, such as stagnant pools of water, uncovered foods and gardens where flowers are in bloom.

• To remove a visible stinger from skin, gently back it out by scraping it with a credit card or your fingernail. • Combination sunscreen/insect repellent products should be avoided because sunscreen needs to be reapplied every two hours, but the insect repellent should not be reapplied. • Use insect repellents containing DEET when needed to prevent insect-related diseases. Ticks can transmit Lyme Disease, and mosquitoes can transmit West Nile, Chikungunya Virus and other viruses. • The current AAP and CDC recommendation for children older than 2 months of age is to use 10% to 30% DEET. DEET should not be used on children younger than 2 months of age. • The effectiveness is similar for 10% to 30% DEET but the duration of effect varies. Ten percent DEET provides protection for about 2 hours, and 30% protects for about 5 hours. Choose the lowest concentration that will provide the required length of coverage. • The concentration of DEET varies significantly from product to product, so read the label of any product you purchase. Children should wash off repellents when they return indoors. • As an alternative to DEET, picaridin has become available in the U.S. in concentrations of 5% to 10%.

• When outside in the evenings or other times when there are a lot of mosquitoes present, cover up with long sleeved shirts, pants and socks to prevent bites.

PLAYGROUND SAFETY

• Make sure children cannot reach any moving parts that might pinch or trap any body part. • Never attach—or allow children to attach— ropes, jump ropes, leashes, or similar items to play equipment; children can strangle on these. If you see something tied to the playground, remove it or call the playground operator to remove it. • Metal, rubber and plastic products can get very hot in summer, especially under direct sun. • Make sure slides are cool to prevent children’s legs from getting burned. • Do not allow children to play barefoot on the playground. © American Academy of Pediatrics, June 2015

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Dr. Katie Wolter is board certified in Pediatrics and is a member of the American Academy of Pediatrics, Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, and the American Medical Association. She is passionate about breastfeeding medicine and is currently working on becoming an IBCLC (International Board Certified Lactation Consultant). She is also a member of the Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. Dr. Wolter is married to her husband, Jeremy, and has four sons. She loves to spend her free time outdoors with her family and friends.

• Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

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Autauga County Schools AHS Basketball Scholarship Signing

Auburn High School had the pleasure of hosting Kris Carter’s signing to play basketball at the University of Mobile. Seated left to right: Coach Frank Tolbert, Cecil Carter (father), Kris Carter, Sharon Carter (mother). Standing left to right: Coach Russell Leonard, Athletic Director Clay McCall, Kayla Carer (sister), Kennon Askew (brother), Coach Chris Brandt.

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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.

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... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...

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AHS Basketball Scholarship Signing

Auburn High had the pleasure of hosting Jalen Alexander’s signing to play basketball at the University of Mobile. Seated left to right: Coach Frank Tolbert, Everett Debrow (grandfather), Jalen Alexander, Barbara Debrow (grandmother). Standing middle row left to right: Angela Alexander (mother), Sherman Alexander (father), Imani Debrow (cousin), Evita Debrow (cousins), Everett Debrow Jr (uncle). Standing back row left to right: Coach Russell Leonard, Coach Chris Brandt, Athletic Director Clay McCall, AAU Coach Mike Thomas.

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Autauga County Schools

Local Dancer Receives Scholarship to Belhaven University

Congratulations to Auburn Pointe dancer and teacher, Abby Stansell, for receiving a dance scholarship to Belhaven University in Jackson, MS. Abby has been dancing for 15 years under the direction of Auburn Pointe staff and the Alabama School of Fine Arts. She specializes in ballet, pointe, pas de deux, modern, and contemporary forms of dance. Abby has been teaching younger students at Auburn Pointe School of Dance the past 2 years, and is an exceptional teacher as well as dancer. We are very proud of her dance accomplishments, and look forward to seeing all she does with dance in the future.

Auburn Students Participate in National Science Olympiad in Wisconsin

Auburn High School and Auburn Junior High School students participated in the National Science Olympiad Competition at the University of Wisconsin! The following students represented ACS in the parade of states: (L-R) Parker Jones, Hayden Burch, Su Kim, Leslie and Tatham Dees, Donghan Park, Rahul Lall, and Peter Abraham.

OHS Grads at Drop by Elementary Schools

Opelika High graduates returned to their elementary schools just before graduation to greet the students during morning drop-off. The elementary students and the graduates had a great time!

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AHS Seniors Visit Yarbrough Elementary

Yarbrough Elementary School is so proud of their former students who graduated from Auburn High! YES students loved celebrating them!

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Auburn Thunder U11 Boys Win Finalists

The Auburn Thunder U11 Boys soccer team were Finalists in the Scenic City Cup in Chattanooga, TN. Pictured from left to right: Coach Rod Goines, Cooper Fain, Matt Rolader, Weldon Sorrell, Jack Warren, Dylan Kariuki, Joe Goodenough, Yangwook Roh, Towns McGough, William Tennant, Will Adams, Isaac Cho and Tucker Roberts.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

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Senate of Alabama Recognizes AHS Aquaculture Instructor

Auburn High School Aquaculture Instructor, Stan Arington, was commended by the Senate of Alabama for his outstanding professional achievements as a marine biology educator. Mr. Arington was honored for many reasons including the design of the framework for the Aquaculture Science Program at AHS as well as creating a unique learning environment known as the Aquarium at Auburn High, which brings visitors from around the country. Arington developed access to Aquaculture Teaching Online Learning (ATOLL) via the University of Hawaii, which permits students to work toward certification in the aquaculture industry while promoting educational and vocational opportunities for students. Last year, 10 of Aringtonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s students were the first in the nation to receive this certification. A special thank you to Sen. Tom Whatley and Ray Van Cor for making the resolution happens for Mr. Arington. (Pictured L to R): Dr. Cristen Herring, Laura Bailey, Sheila Arington, Stan Arington, Dr. Shannon Pignato, Dr. David Cline and Ray Van Cor.

Learning How to Be a Great Principal

Educational consultant, Todd Whitaker made a stop in Auburn. Whitaker has published more than 30 books pertaining to practical takes education. His message to administrators was titled "What Great Principals Do Differently," which derives from his 2011 book titled "What Great Principals Do Differently: Eighteen Things That Matter Most". He spoke about instilling confidence, showing appreciation and trusting in teachers so they can grow as educators. The top two things Whitaker asks of teachers is to "care" and "try." 11

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Autauga County Schools

Trinity Christian School Class of 2016

Congratulations to the graduates of Trinity Christian School's Class of 2016!

OMS Student wins O’Mazing Shake Soft Skills Competition Last week, 120 seventh and eighth grade students at Opelika Middle School participated in the O’Mazing Shake soft skills competition. The competition lasted for two days. According to Clarinda Jones, the event coordinator, the objective of the competition was to “expose, educate, and teach students soft skills through practice inside and outside the classroom essentially preparing them for the workplace and the real world.” Students rotated through individual interviews in the first round where the students were scored on categories such as poise, firm handshake, articulation and eye contact. The next day, the semi-finalists attended a luncheon with judges to discuss their goals and future plans. Mayor Gary Fuller met with the five finalists and a winner was selected. Congratulations to Will Beams, winner of the O’Mazing Shake!

Please send school news and photos to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

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Auburn City Council Recognitions

Both the Class 7A State Champion Outdoor Track/Field and the Alabama State Champion Mountain Biking teams were honored for their achievements competing and representing Auburn. Auburn High School boys Outdoor Track & Field team won the Class 7A AHSAA state track and field team title on May 7. For Auburn, this is the Tigers’ first outdoor championship since winning in 6A in 2013. The Tigers also won the indoor state championship this winter. Both the 4x100 and 4x800 won first place and Michael Robinson set a new state record in the boys discus. The Tigers took home points in 16 events. FUN FACT: 2016 AHS boys finish the triple crown of running winning state titles in cross county, indoor track, and outdoor track. Auburn High's Mountain Bike Club were the 2016 Alabama State High School Mountain Bike Champions. For the first time, Chewacla State Park was the site of the Alabama Interscholastic Cycling League’s High School Mountain Biking State Championship race, “The Crank Down in Tiger Town" May 14-15. The season-ending race marked the fifth in a series that crowned both teams and individuals with statewide titles. This is the team's second year of existence and they were runner-up last year for the state title.

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Auburn City Schools Child Nutrition Program Employees were hard at work attending a ServSafe training hosted by Auburn University Extension Agent Janet Johnson! These ACS Staffers are learning about food borne illness, how to prevent it and how to train employees in food sanitation as well as food safety practices for preparing and serving food. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

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AHS Student Places 3rd at International Science and Engineering Fair

Alexis Jones, a sophomore at Auburn High School, placed 3rd in Biochemistry at the INTEL International Science and Engineering Fair. She competed against almost 2000 contestants; half of which were from the states and half were from other countries. Her project was titled "Assessment of Macro and Micronutrients in a Recycled Supplement for Canines." Alexis studied the wasted food thrown away in school cafeterias and found a way to repurpose it into an eco-friendly, healthy, and cheap alternative to store-bought dog food for use in local shelters. She explained, "A common misconception is that you shouldn't feed dogs human food." During her defense of her project, she stated that many professors, as judges, argued with her about negative effects, and she had to stand her ground. Alexis pointed out, "Dogs actually have a more rigorous digestive system than humans. Fresh food is good for them just as it is for the children the schools are serving." Alexis' project is a two-year study. With the approval of her family veterinarian, she researched and analyzed the protein, carbohydrate, fiber and lipid levels a dog required and applied that to her first recipe. She did her analysis at Auburn University under multiple mentors, including Ms. Susan Sladden (Crop, Soil and Environmental Science), Dr. Tung-shi Huang (Poultry Science), Dr. Cliff Lange (Civil Engineering) and Dr. Paul Cobine (Biological Sciences). This year, she analyzed minerals in that recipe and began to make adjustments based on what foods were available and how the mineral levels needed to be increased. "Too many variables made making changes by hand very complex in my third adjustment," Alexis explained. She fixed this problem and described the process, "I had ten basic ingredients and ten measurements they affected. I set it all up in a spread sheet and made an algorithm for my predictions." Alexis is interested in being a chemical engineer and is excited about working with professors at Auburn University this summer to learn more about jobs in the lab. Alabama students who qualified from regional or state competition, went to Phoenix, Arizona. The national competition and its ceremonies lasted all week long, from May 9th through the 13th.

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Autauga County Schools

Lee-Scott Academy Class of 2016

The LSA Class of 2016 has earned the HIGHEST scholarship offer in the history of our school! Total: $3,230,250, Average per student: $58,732 (55 students). 54 students will be continuing their education at a 2 or 4 year college, and one will be working for the family business. Of the 54 continuing their education, they will travel to 17 different colleges. Ga Tech – 1, Air Force – 1, U. of Oregon -1, U of Florida – 1, NC State -1, Liberty -1, Gustavus Adolfus College – 1, U of Mobile -1, South Alabama -1, Auburn – 18, U of Alabama – 6, Auburn Montgomery – 1, Huntingdon – 4, Troy- 2, Lawson CC – 1, SUSCC – 11, CACC – 1.

OHS Senior Kevin Lazenby Named National Merit Scholarship Winner

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F Congratulations to OHS senior Kevin Lazenby on being selected as a National Merit Scholarship Winner! Lazenby will attend Vanderbilt University in the fall.

Trinity Christian School Junior/Senior Banquet

On Friday, May 6, the Junior class carried on the tradition of hosting the Senior class for the Junior/ Senior Banquet. After a short reception in the Trinity Presbyterian Fellowship Hall for friends and family of the Class of 2016, both classes headed off to Atlanta. The students shared a meal at The Cheesecake Factory followed by a viewing of a performance by Cirque du Soleil. The Junior class was able to pay for the evening with profit from their poinsettia fundraiser in December.

Get your 2016-2017 AHS Cheerleader Calendar!

The AHS Varsity Cheerleaders are selling 2016-2017 calendars this year for $10! Calendars run June 2016 through May 2017 and include all school calendar holidays as well as our football and basketball schedules. Each month features a different local business! Contact the AHS Athletic Department in order to purchase.

Please send school news and photos to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

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Auburn High School Mountain Bike Team wins State Championship

The Auburn High School team won the race and the State Championship. Many of the Lee County and Auburn High School athletes were on the podium for placing in the race and finishing as State Champions in their division. Auburn High School State Championship Team, Front row left to right: Ryan Thornton, Posie Hooks, Sarah Terhune, Sarah Almond, Jackson Hubbard, Andrew Monk. Middle row left to right: Hunter Lazenby, Khambria O’Grady, Cristian Bass, Courtney Clark, Drew Arnold, Ben Prowell, Justin Walker, Will Goodling, Aly Roland, An Mei Ellisor, Madison Bevis, Carl Wikle. Back row left to right: Brett Maclean, Jackson Eaton, Joshua Engram, Luis Rodriquez, Emily Arnold, Calen Paleologos, Will Fuller, Max McDonald, Bo Bonner, Sam Anderson, Andrew Farr, Conner McCormick, Carson Chambliss, Hannah Crews, Aiden Bird, Taylor Engram, Caleb Terhune. Pictured at the podium: Back row, left to right: Emily Arnold (AHS) 2nd Place, Ryan Thornton (LC) 1st Place & 1st Place State Champion, Calen Paleologos (AHS) 3rd Place, Andrew Farr 3rd Place & 7th Place State Champion; Jackson Hubbard (AHS) 1st Place & 3rd Place State Champion. Front left to right: Hannah Crews (AHS) 1st Place & 2nd Place State Champion; Courtney Clark (LC) 2nd Place & 1st Place State Champion; Justin Walker (AHS) Place & 7th Place State Champion; Will Goodling (AHS) 4th Place State Champion; An Mei Ellisor (AHS) 3rd place; Connor McCormick (AHS) 2nd Place & 4th Place State Champion; Madison Bevis (AHS) 1st Place & 1st Place State Champion; Aly Roland (LC) 2nd Place & 2nd Place State Champion. Not Pictured: Will Anderson 6th Place & 6th Place State Champion; Andrew Monk 4th Place.

FOOD, FUN, FAMILY &

SCULPTURE Celebrating the opening of

MUSEUM Homecoming Come & enjoy TAILGATE OUT OF THE BOX a juried outdoor sculpture exhibition

FRIDAY

OCT.

3–7 PM

FREE ADMISSION. Reserve your tickets at jcsm.auburn.edu by SEPT. 25

VENDORS

TOURS, ART ACTIVITIES & A TIGER BOUNCE HOUSE.

Food & d rinks

available for purchase. CASH IS PREFERRED. WE ID.

NO OUTSIDE FOOD OR BEVERAGES ALLOWED.

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Autauga County Schools Trinity Christian School Competes at High Note Festival

The Trinity Trebles participated in the annual High Note Festival on Saturday, May 7. They received a superior rating and celebrated with time at Six Flags Over Georgia after the competition.

AHS Softball Team Wins Regionals

For the first time since 2005 the Auburn High School Softball team won Regionals and now they are State bound. AHS first defeated Prattville, 4-3, in Round One of South Regional in Troy, Ala., before beating Central-Phenix City 4-3 to earn the No. 1 South Central seed in AHSAA State Championship tournament at Lagoon Park in Montgomery.

Please send school news and photos to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

AHS Wayne Murphy Scholarship Recipients

The Wayne Murphy Scholarships are presented to one male and one female Auburn High School senior student/athlete that display the traits former AHS Coach and Athletic Director Wayne Murphy valued and demonstrated in his life such as enthusiasm, leadership, character and a strong work ethic. This year’s recipients are Morgan Brown and Dana Echols. Morgan played football and baseball at AHS; he plans to attend Auburn University to study chemical engineering. Dana played basketball at AHS and ran track; she plans to attend Shelton State Community College to study accounting while on a basketball scholarship. These scholarships are the result of an endowment established with the Community Foundation of East Alabama (CFEA) in memory of Coach Wayne Murphy, Auburn High's first athletic director, who lost his battle to cancer in 2011. Coach Murphy was the embodiment of the “can do” spirit, and he instilled this attitude in his students in the classroom as well as in athletics. He was always able to motivate his athletes to run faster and farther, jump higher and perform better. Murphyʼs final professional role was as the first director of athletics for Auburn High School, a position he held from 1991 until his retirement in 1998. It was his vision that eventually led to the current AHS field house and the modernized track facility that now bears his name. (Pictured L to R) Barbara Patton with CFEA, Dana Echols, Associate Athletic Director Ed Crum, Morgan Brown and Anne Whittelsey, chairman of the board for CFEA.

OCS Retirees Honored at Reception

The Opelika City Schools honored the 2016 retirees at a reception at Jeter Primary School. The retirees were presented with a gift from the Board of Education. Pictured (l-r): Brenda Lilly-OHS Cafeteria, Benjamin CannonTransportation, Vernon Dowdell-OMS Cafeteria, Marie Johnson-Carver Cafeteria, Gayle Lacey-OMS Cafeteria, Dorothy Morgan-Jeter Cafeteria, Kris Hawkins-West Forest, Patsy Parker standing in for Varetta Jones-OLC, Martha Smith-Art and Monica Mitchell-West Forest. Not pictured: Varetta Jones-OLC, Charles Moffett-Transportation, Ellen Preston-OHS Cafeteria and Dianne Smith-Morris Avenue Cafeteria. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

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Camp Drake Middle!

J. F. Drake Middle School held orientation for 6th graders. Pictured are the Leopards, Panthers, Tigers, and Cosmic Cats. These new Drake students had fun learning about their new school home base. Students learned all about DMS by asking their new teachers questions and completing a peer-led scavenger hunt on campus while their parents met with administrators for more information on the school. All parents of Auburn 6th grade students should have received a letter in the mail that revealed which jungle cat their student will be this upcoming school year. Parents had the opportunity to pay for team merchandise and yearbooks with debit/ credit cards on-site with no processing fees included.

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Autauga County Schools Trinity Christian Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Opelika Middle School All A and A-B 6th Grade Catechism Honor Roll Banquet Opelika Middle School hosted an Honor Roll Banquet in May to recognize the Completion Celebration "All A" and "A-B" honor roll students. Nineteen students were on the "All A"

Mrs. DeLong's sixth grade class celebrated their final recitations of all 107 catechisms with an ice cream sundae party. This accomplishment deserves celebrating as it is a monumental task that all Trinity students begin in Kindergarten and complete is sixth grade. Congratulations students on a job well done!

honor roll and fifty-two students were on the "A-B" honor roll. The banquet was sponsored by USAmeriBank and the New Blossom Shop. Congratulations to these students!

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Please send school news and photos to: Kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com.

OHS Graduate Signs Scholarship with Faulkner State Community College

Opelika High School graduate Madison Ashley Grubbs signed a cheerleading scholarship with Faulkner State Community College. Joining Grubbs are front row (l-r): Vertrina Grubbsmother, Madison Ashley Grubbs, and JArthur Grubbs,Jr.-father. Back for (l-r): Dr. Farrell Seymore-OHS Principal, Coach Brian Blackmon-OHS Athletic Director, JArthur Grubbs, IIIbrother, and Coach Brandy Edwards-OHS Cheerleading Coach.

OHS Graduate Signs Scholarship with Enterprise State Community College

Opelika High School graduate Kingston Frazier signed a basketball scholarship with Enterprise State Community College. Joining Frazier are front row (l-r): Taneisha Frazier-mother, Kingston Frazier, and Terrence Frazier-father. Back row (l-r): Dr. Farrell Seymore-OHS Principal, Mia Frazier-sister, Coach Brian Blackmon-OHS Athletic Director, Erica Dowdell-cousin, Coach John Wadsworth-OHS Head Basketball Coach, Alex Dowdell-cousin, Jameron Counts-cousin, and Coach Jermaine Williams-Enterprise State Head Basketball Coach. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

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AHS Students Attend JROTC Camp at Ft. Benning

A dozen Auburn High School students graduated from the JROTC Cadet Leadership Challenge (JCLC). As a hands-on military summer camp, the JCLC allows cadets to practice leadership skills in a military environment. Fort Benning provided the training facilities and equipment, and the trainees lived with their peers in an authentic military setting for the weeklong camp. Some of the training included land navigation, water-survival training, an obstacle course, rappel and confidence courses as well as a 34-foot airborne jump tower. Cadet Leadership winners: (L to R above) Cadet Jungha Park, Cadet Guadalupe Alvarado and Cadet Joseph Kim.

HE ONCE BEAT HIS DAD FOUR STRAIGHT GAMES IN CHESS. AFTERWARD, HE CELEBRATED WITH SOME ORANGE SLICES AND A BOOK ABOUT WIZARDS. and at Children’s of Alabama we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential. That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine.

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Trinity Christian School’s 8th Grade Latin Performs "Virent Ova! Viret Perna!"

Mrs. Ballard's eighth grade Latin class performed "Virent Ova! Vireo Perna!" or "Green Eggs and Ham" for several grammar school classes on Monday, May 9, as a way to end this year's studies.

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Autauga CountyMiddle Schools School Students Opelika Win Amazing Shake

Opelika Middle School 6th graders competed in the 2016 Amazing Shake during the last few weeks of school. Students participated in five rounds of meeting community leaders and going through interviews. After each round, students were eliminated and finalists were announced. Students were judged on their poise, charisma, social etiquette and knowledge of current events. The two finalists, Cailin Birdsong and Jordan Nolen, were interviewed by local radio personality, Donny Blankenship of Mix 96.7 as part of the final round. Congratulations to Cailin Birdsong on being named the winner of the 2016 Amazing Shake! Pictured: Cailin Birdsong (left) and Jordan Nolen with Donny Blankenship at Mix 96.7.

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AHS Boys Basketball Camp

The Auburn High School Boys Basketball Camp began on Frank Tolbert Court at AHS with more than 100 campers in attendance. This camp is from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. each day and focuses on the fundamentals of shooting, passing, rebounding, offense and defense in the morning. Teams play games in the afternoon. There were guest speakers and individual & team competitions. Pictured are Campers with 4-star Power Forward Garrison Brooks.

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Lee-Scott Academy Names New Boys’ Basketball Coach

Lee-Scott Academy is pleased to announce the hiring of Coach William Johnson as Lee-Scott Academy’s new Boys’ Basketball Coach. Coach Johnson is currently serving as Tuscaloosa Academy's boys’ and girls’ basketball coach. He has a Bachelor of Science degree from Troy University in Sports and Fitness Management. He has maintained two varsity basketball programs with high standards for winning by compiling a total of 186 wins over the past four seasons, 5 Final Four appearances, 2 State Runners-Up, and 2 State Championships. "William is a quality coach and an outstanding person who will be a great fit for our school. He comes with many years of proven success as a basketball coach and with very positive recommendations," said Headmaster Dr. Don Roberts.

AJHS Student Receives Space Camp Scholarship

Carolina Francis, an 8th grader at Auburn Junior High School was awarded the SALSA (Space Academy for Leading Students in Alabama) scholarship to attend Space Camp in Huntsville, Alabama May 29- June 3. She was nominated by our local state legislator and teachers at AJHS. Her scholarship includes tuition, room and board, as well as a flight suit.

Drake Student Receives Space Camp Scholarship

John Israel (6th grade DMS) applied for a scholarship to Space Academy for Leading Students in Alabama and the Alabama State Legislature choose him to receive a scholarship to attend space camp in Huntsville this summer based upon his application. The scholarship is awarded to a male and female student between the ages of 12-14 for each legislative district in Alabama. He will spend a week this summer at the U.S. Space and Rocket Center to learn the history of the space program, learn to train like an astronaut through authentic simulators, and participate in a simulated space mission. 21

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Autauga County Schools

The 88th Annual State Convention of the Alabama FFA Association Auburn High School played host to the 2016 State Career Development Event Finals! Students from more than 50 high schools all across the state are on the South Dean Road campus competing in events such as tractor driving, quiz bowls, public speaking, agricultural mechanics and assembling/disassembling small engines.

AHS Sophomore Working at Engineering Facility this Summer

Auburn High sophomore Danielle Conniver is working at Kemmerich Metal Engineering this summer through the Pathfinder-Auburn Program!

Trinity Christian School Spring Band Concert and Cookout

As the school year came to a close, the Trinity band students celebrated this year's accomplishments with the annual Spring Band Concert and Cookout. Band Director, Mr. Cornelius, directed the Jazz, Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced Bands as well as the Trinity Brass Quintet. It was a beautiful evening of music, fellowship, food and fun!

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Pick Elementary Teachers Attend Workshop in Atlanta Eight teachers from Pick Elementary School attended a two-day workshop in Atlanta to learn more about The Daily Five and CAFE! The Sisters (shown here with the PES staff), Gail Boushey and Joan Moser, have worked to develop strategies to make teaching reading and the management of teaching reading more effective and efficient.

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A Page in a Book Getting Lost in a Book The word ‘lost’ is an early arrival in most children’s vocabulary. It applies to every important thing in a child’s world that becomes “unfindable” at some point. One sock, the best pacifier, the last cookie (fallen in the carseat), the favorite blanket, an irreplaceable toy – all these things gain critical importance and meaning in the moment that a child realizes they are ‘lost’. And the search begins. And like every search, unexpected treasures are found along the way. The following titles all examine the process of finding something that is hidden or lost, and what is revealed in the journey of discovery.

Alfie’s Lost Sharkie

by Anna Walker (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) When Dad announces bath time, Alfie becomes instantly aware that his beloved Sharkie is missing. The search begins as Alfie looks for his favorite toy in all the customary places (and many outside the norm). With his Dad struggling to keep the evening routine on track, every step along the way is punctuated by new places that Alfie needs to explore in his effort to find Sharkie. With a Dad who is exasperated by all the side-trips, delays and restless resistance from a child who refuses to give up the search, parents will find familiar scenarios throughout this charming journey toward bedtime. Walker’s expressive artwork and soft colors smooth out the mania that accompanies lost ‘lovies’ making it an ideal find for bedtime reading.

Clark in the Deep Sea

by R.W. Alley (Clarion / Houghton Mifflin Harcourt) It’s a rainy afternoon on the porch as a group of siblings each find their own way to stay busy and dry. But the mood changes when youngest sister Annabelle’s imaginary circus performance flies off the high wire as the star attraction. Her beloved stuffed bear launches out into the soggy sea of the yard. Brother Clark springs into action and dives deep within the wet surrounds (and his own colorful musings) as he seeks to find and bring back the lost bear. The dog plays the shark, an umbrella becomes a bathysphere and siblings evolve into an undersea recovery team with a mission to save the day. A make-believe search and rescue has very real implications when a beloved member of the party needs finding!

Where’s the Elephant?

by Stephane-Yves Barroux (Candlewick Press) An elephant, a snake and a parrot enter a wilderness, effectively disappearing in a riot of foliage and color. With only a brief introduction to the animals, young eyes begin searching each subsequent two-page spread to see if they can find the hidden trio. This becomes more challenging as the elephant, snake and parrot camouflage themselves within a search grid (the forest) that’s becoming smaller with each turn of the page. Inspired by his trip to the Amazon where he saw deforestation first-hand, Barroux subtly illustrates the effects of habitat loss within this colorfully rendered and hopeful adventure. Eye-opening in more ways than one, Where’s the Elephant is an inspirational twist on the traditional seek-and-find title.

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

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When children pitch in with chores they learn more than responsibility. Children also acquire competence, selfreliance and self-worth, and an appreciation for teamwork and cooperation--skills that will accompany them throughout their lifetimes. Follow these tips to chill any chore wars in your home.

Begin Early

Little ones are eager to help. They can help you pick up and put away their toys, match socks, hand you their dishes, bring you ingredients, or stir the muffin batter. They are learning through your everyday experiences and loving guidance.

by Judy M. Miller

Start Small

Tasks should not be overwhelming. For example, asking a threeyear-old to clean the bathroom by himself is too much. So is folding all of the laundry. He can, though, learn how to rinse out the tub with a plastic cup after it is used or fold the washcloths and smaller towels.

Provide Choices

One of our jobs as parents is to raise the future’s responsible adults. Doing so begins at home. Parents can begin to build the foundation of responsibility through teaching and expecting their children to do their fare share around the house. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

When your child is older he can take on additional and more complex tasks like taking out the trash, walking the dog, and doing the dishes. These chores have multiple steps involved and will likely require some supervision and training until your child is doing them correctly. Have a family meeting for the purpose of discussing what chores need to be done and how often and who will be assigned to do them. Also make sure everyone understands that they may have to pitch in where needed, say another family member is sick or otherwise unavailable.

Do Your Part

Chores are part of daily life for every person, whether they live with others or not. Model a good attitude about doing chores. Be calm and matwww.auburnopelikaparents.com

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ter of fact when you are doing chores or asking your child to do them. A child who observes his parent doing a chore in this manner is more likely to cooperate when asked to do a chore. Consider partnering with your child, working along side them to complete a task. Partnering offers you the opportunity to explain why you do the task the way you do and demonstrate the steps you take. Ask your child to copy you. You are there to gently and lovingly encourage and guide him.

Provide Incentives and Rewards

Motivate your child as he moves through preschool, elementary, middle, and high school years by using incentives and rewards, along with loving encouragement. Taylor incentives and rewards to the individual child and his interests. Be patient and consistent. And don’t forget the verbal praise, thanks and hugs.

Chore Ideas by Age Groups Preschoolers

• Clearing their place at the kitchen table. • Putting dishes in sink. • Matching socks. • Folding towels and washcloths. • Putting their toys away.

Elementary-Aged Children

• Help care for the family pet. • Putting their clothes away in their room. • Picking up their room. • Helping to put dishes away.

Tweens • • • • •

Stripping and making the bed. Sweeping the floors. Vacuuming. Taking out the trash. Dusting.

Teens • • • • •

Doing the dishes. Laundry. Mowing the yard. Washing the car. Cleaning the bathroom. AOP

Judy M. Miller is a freelance writer living in the Midwest with her husband and four children. She is a Certified Gottman Educator and the author of What To Expect From Your Adopted Tween and Writing to Heal Adoption Grief: Making Connections & Moving Forward.

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Keeping Vacation Photos G-Rated Summer vacation photos used to mean snapshots of kids posed in front of landmarks or goofing around with cousins at a family reunion. Only a decade ago, parents knew exactly what photos their kids took if only because the camera was family property and parents had to have the photos developed. Now that cameras are embedded in most cellphones, children can take—and distribute— photos without any consultation with parents. As a result, many young people already have embarrassing and potentially risky photos posted on social networking sites and stored in the cellphones of friends as well as strangers. During the summer, when some kids are bored and less supervised, the odds of making mischief with a camera increase. The thought that some of a child’s vacation photos might be provocative or even nude is understandably distressing to parents. Teens, however, aren’t as appalled as they ought to be. One in four teens has participated in sexting and even more have seen or forwarded the photos. Both genders are involved, though girls suffer disproportionate consequences because boys rarely store or forward photos of naked boys. Technology that will allow parents to preview photos before children send them is likely to be available by the end of the year. For this summer, parents will have to talk— often—about what kinds of photos kids are allowed to take and share. Here’s what you need to know. Start young. Middle school students seem to be at especially high risk for sexting, perhaps because they are just discovering their own sexual feelings and they crave the attention of the opposite sex. Girls, in particuAuburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

lar, may consider using an intimate photo as a way of showing a boyfriend how much they care. In one of the most thorough studies of sexting to date, researchers from the Crimes against Children Center at the University of New Hampshire pointed out that a large proportion of the pictures involved in sexting are taken and sent voluntarily by children as young as nine. Have repeated conversations. Young people are growing up in a highly sexualized culture. The message that sexting is cool comes from music videos and social media. Pornographic images are less shocking because they are so readily available online. Most young people have seen or at least heard about sexual photos of their peers, so they often start with a “no-big-deal” attitude. Parents will need to talk about this topic often to convince them otherwise. Lectures are pointless. Instead, take advantage of news reports about sexting to start open-ended conversations. Predict consequences. Adolescents are not developmentally ready to think carefully about how today’s impulse may lead to future problems. They need adults to help them anticipate potential difficulties created by sexual photos. Talk your child through various scenarios. If a relationships breaks up, how will the partners feel about sexy pictures they’ve sent to each other? How will they feel if the photo gets forwarded to one person or a thousand people or ten thousand people? What if a pedophile gets hold of the picture and puts it on a website? What if the photo is seen by the principal at school, the pastor at church, younger siblings, older relatives? Making these consequences vivid makes it less likely that a teen will impulsively send a compromising photo. Explain legal issues. Sending sexual photos of someone under 18 fits the legal description for distribution of child pornography. Police and prosecutors vary a great deal in how stringently they enforce the law. As a result, many teens don’t understand the legal risk they incur if they press “forward” on a racy picture. Be sure your child knows that 26

some young people have been prosecuted and labeled as sex offenders, a designation that can have lifelong consequences. Talk about tagging. Tagging is a social media feature that allows people to identify people in photos that they post. Although this can be a harmless way for young people to share their photos, it takes control about what images can be seen online out of your child’s hands. In particular, tagged photos can show up in the public photo strip at the top of your child’s profile page. Even if you aren’t your child’s “friend” on social media, you should regularly search his or her name to see what photos appear. If tagged photos of your child are inappropriate, try to delete them. On Facebook, visit the Account settings in the upper right of the page. Click on Privacy, a section that contains many useful tools for controlling who sees what on Facebook. To control tagged photos, choose “Customize settings,” then “Photos and Videos you’re Tagged In.” Choose “Customize” again and then click “Make this visible to”. Choose “Only Me” from the drop down menu. Even if your child would never send a sexually explicit photo, he or she may receive one from peers. Encouraging kids to report such messages puts them in a conflicted position. No teen wants to be responsible for getting a friend in trouble. You can, however, make it clear that your child can do something positive simply by deleting the photo. Sharing sexually explicit photos may actually make your child an accessory to a crime. Pressing “delete” is a small kindness to the young person foolish enough to distribute homemade pornography. Like any discussion with teens about sexuality, conversations about sexting can be awkward. It’s also natural for parents to think their own child couldn’t possibly be involved. The truth is that even “nice” kids get involved in sexting, so parents need to be proactive. Talking to children now makes it less likely they will share summer vacation photos that will haunt them when they go back to school in the fall. Carolyn Jabs, M.A., has been writing the Growing Up Online column for ten year. She is also the author of Cooperative Wisdom: Bringing People Together When Things Fall Apart. Available at Amazon and Cooperative Wisdom.org. @ Copyright, 2016, Carolyn Jabs. All rights reserved

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Q. Our son is 16, and he just got his first paycheck. He asked us about the best way to manage it, and we’re not sure what to tell him. Do you have any advice?

A. Congratulations on a big moment in your son’s life! I’m sure he’s proud, and I’m glad he has parents who want to teach him how to grow into a financially responsible young man. I think giving is a really big deal at this age. I’d recommend putting 10 percent toward your church or a good, local charity. It’s very important to teach kids about the spiritual and financial benefits of being a giver. The remaining 90 percent you might split evenly between savings and spending in the beginning. You can always go a little heavier on the savings portion if there’s a concrete goal, like college or a car, in mind. The pro-

cess of thinking ahead and setting goals is always a good exercise, too. The goal here, in addition to teaching him the value and benefits or work, is to build the muscles of his character. Financially speaking, as parents, we should want our children to grow to be givers, savers and wise, careful spenders. If they become all three of these when they’re young, they won’t be financially irresponsible adults later!

Q. My mom and dad filed bankruptcy recently and are on a fixed income of $2,200 a month. They gave up their house, and my wife and I helped them find an apartment. We’re also trying to give them other help while they’re getting back on their feet. The problem is, we’re paying off debt and trying to get our own finances in better shape. I think my sister should help out

some, too, but I’m not sure how to approach her about this.

A. It’s not out of line to ask her to help and then gauge her interest and willingness. I mean, it’s your parents we’re talking about. Still, you can’t force someone to do something they can’t do or simply don’t want to do. Before you approach your sister, you might try working up a monthly budget on your parents. It doesn’t have to be complicated — just a one-page document showing their situation. Let her see that mom and dad are struggling right now, and suggest that you both chip in a little each month until they’re back on their feet financially. Don’t point fingers or make accusations, because that will ruin things in a hurry. Family should always try to pull together in times like this. In most cases, things like this work out fine and family bonds become even stronger.

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Have you ever felt like you didn’t have the time or energy to give your child the party she deserved? Maybe the birthday fell when you were sick, moving, or working double overtime. It happened to me when my oldest turned three. I was pregnant, as big as a house, and roughly as mobile. I felt like I was neglecting my daughter, and was eager to compensate with an exciting day that was all about her. The baby was due two months before Big One’s birthday. I told myself that as soon as I delivered this lead-filled watermelon, I would bounce right back to my old self and knock this party out of the park. To my dismay, Sweet Daughter the Second was born almost two weeks late, and she was a colicky handful. I stumbled through those recovery weeks on shattered sleep, and was just beginning to achieve a daily shower, when I realized that this much-hyped fiesta needed assembly. “How on earth do parents do this?” I wondered, as I nursed, rocked, nursed, changed, nursed, served cold leftovers, and nursed some more. Luckily, my wonderful family was there. When they asked, “What does she want for her birthday?” I said, “A party!” and Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

we divvied up the jobs. We ended up with a fun day at the park. There was a crown, some cupcakes, and lots of balloons in her favorite colors. My sweetheart felt like a princess, and I decided we could keep both kids after all. There are lots of tricks that can help you conjure up lowstress birthday fun. Here are some that helped me and other run-down parents give our children a happy day to celebrate their fantastic self:

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1. Ask for Help

Grandparents, aunts, uncles, or friends might be game to help. Someone might even offer to plan the whole event, or maybe a crew would be happy to each bring a snack, a game, or an item of décor.

2. Go Off-Location Rather than cleaning and decorating your house, why not take the party to a restaurant or pool? For no cost, have a picnic at the park, or ask a generous friend or relative to host for you.

3. Keep it Intimate Instead of inviting the whole class or daycare roster, you could plan a special activity with just one or two close friends. Many kids socialize this way naturally, playing one-on-one or in a small group. A family-only party is another way to keep it low-key and focus on a favorite activity. 28

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4. Plan an Independence Day If you feel your child is old enough, maybe this birthday is a great time for that first unchaperoned trip to the mall or the movies. An older tween might really enjoy helping plan and execute this operation with one or two friends whom you trust to behave responsibly.

5. Gather Up a Potluck In the summertime, a laid-back multi-family potluck picnic can be a relaxing way to celebrate. The park or the beach will provide lots of fun with worry-free décor, menu, and activities.

6. Simplify Your Usual “I love planning parties,” says Angela, mom of two, “especially making cakes. I like to top them with figurines built out of modeling chocolate and work up a theme. When my oldest turned four, though, I didn’t have time for the usual prep. We went on holidays just before her birthday, right when I would normally be working on the party. I changed my plan and made a simple cake with colorful batter and icing rosettes. I got it all done in a day, and it was still very pretty and special.”

7. Go Old School Julie, a mother of two and grandmother of five, knows her parties. She says, “We have thrown a lot of parties, and the kids still love the simple games, like threelegged races and wheelbarrow races.” More zero-prep games include freeze tag, hide and seek, Simon says, and follow the leader. Older kids might get a kick out of having a dance-off or lip synch battle to music played on your smart phone.

8. Go Back to School Marlene, mom of three, shares this idea about an easy, athletic party; “My neighbor organized a ball hockey party in the school parking lot one weekend. Since it wasn’t a school day, the lot was empty. The boys brought their own sticks, and she just brought a couple of nets, snacks, and cupcakes.

9. Work the Clock Plan your party for mid-morning or midafternoon, so you can serve some easy snacks instead of a whole meal.

10. Work the Calendar Have a small party now, and plan a lavish un-birthday when the timing is better.

11. Call for Costumes Create an effortless theme by having everyone come in their favorite Halloween or dress-up outfit. The kids can grab pots and pans and have a costume parade down the street, or a quieter costumefashion show to show off their best catwalk moves and poses.

12. Camp Out If you have a backyard firepit, try a campout party. Let the kids roast their own hot dogs and marshmallows, and if they’re old enough, sleep over in tents. 29

“We used to have backyard sleepovers in our tent trailer,” tells Abbey, a veteran party-goer. “It was just like camping, except we could come inside and use the nice bathroom.” If you have a child’s birthday coming up at a stressful time, take heart. There are plenty of ways you can create happy memories for your special kid with exactly the time and energy that you have. AOP Laurie loves sharing simple pleasures with her two girls, and is looking forward to a fun birthday season with these laid-back ideas.

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Don’t Deny Yourself a New Style...It’s Never Too Late When I visit my clients or speak to groups of women they almost always tell me one thing... I do not have any style or sense of fashion. To be honest with you, I don’t agree with those who say that. It doesn’t matter when you begin, how old you are, or what size you wear, we all have some sense of style. It’s about finding out what style you are comfortable in and embracing it. Sometimes we just need a little guidance when it comes to what style we are looking for. The main hesitation for making a style change I hear is age. Ladies are always saying, “I’m too old to change my style.” Well I’m here to tell you, ladies, you are never to old for change, especially when it comes to your style or fashion. Here are some steps that I hope you will find helpful: 1- Research a style you may like. The great thing about research is there are so many options to help you. Look through magazines, search the web and window shop to find ideas you are comfortable with when it comes to your age, weight, height, etc.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

2- Shop at a different store for a change in style. This might sound silly, but I can assure you it’s not. We get stuck in a routine when it comes to our wardrobe purchases. We are used to buying the same things from the same retail store. This makes it hard for change and you end up having a lot of the same styles in your closet. So, change it up a little. 3- Take baby steps when it comes to adding new trends to your wardrobe. 4- Start off by purchasing a new handbag or fun accessories. This can add a lot to your simple outfit without totally stepping out. 5 - Change your hair and makeup. Sound silly? It shouldn’t. Sometimes when you refresh your hairstyle and change your makeup (try a lighter or darker lipstick, change your nail color), these are small steps in building up to that look you are longing for. • Research a new cut or color. • Show your stylist or makeup artist what look you are wanting in regards to your change. They may or may not agree

with you, but this will allow them to understand what you are looking for. Being the professionals that they are they will be able to work in a look that’s comparable to the change you are looking for without drastic measures. 6 - Build your confidence. Stop saying I wish I could wear that and say I want to try to wear that. This is so important, ladies. Simply by telling yourself that you will take the time to try new things, including a little change in your wardrobe or style, will allow you to have an open mind to new changes. In return, this can give you the confidence you need. CONFIDENCE is key to embracing your new style. Some people have a sense of style and a great fashion flair, but there’s no reason you can’t learn or get help if you feel you don’t have a clue. It requires knowledge, effort, and the willingness to make a change. Getting out of your comfort zone is essential to moving in the right direction. Don’t try to find the time to look great, make the time to get the help you need to look and feel your very best, every day. You can do it if you set your mind to it. You will be surprised how small changes will go a long way. It will be worth your time and effort. Start with the small changes. You’ll be glad you did. Be everything you want to be and more!

Laura Handey is an independent clothing consultant in Pike Road, Alabama. You may reach her by email at laura@ centsiblysouthern. com or visit her website and read her blogs at www.centsiblysouthern.com.

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CAKES/FINGER FOOD • Bruster’s Ice Cream 2172 E University Drive, Auburn. 821-9988. Ice cream cakes and pies are loaded with personality! In Store Tour-Bring your group for a tour of our store. Learn how Bruster’s Ice Cream got started and help us make a batch of our delicious home-made ice cream. Enjoy some ice cream and have some fun! Sundae Bar-We can bring the party to you. We offer traditional sundaes, brownie sundaes, banana splits and strawberry shortcakes. We provide the ice cream, toppings, spoons, napkins & cups. • Cakeapotamus 2213 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika. 737-6049 www.cakeapotamus.com. Bakery & Cake Studio! Awesome kids deserve awesome cakes designed and created just for them! Our new location is the perfect place for: tea parties, birthday parties, book club meetings, or evening cake classes for adults. • Cakes by Tania 415 East Magnolia Ave, Auburn. 801-521-0328 www.cakesbytania.com. Specializing in specialty cakes for all occasions- weddings, birthdays and events. Other designs include cake pops, cookies, brownies, and more. Everything is made to order using the best ingredients and the love and special “just like grandma used to” touch to provide you with the perfect cake. All baked goods are made from scratch. • Chill 234 West Magnolia Ave, Auburn. 502-1114. Tigertown, Opelika. 745-7714. Yogurt, custard, sorbet, smoothies, yocakes and more! www.chillyogurtcafe.com • D Squared Donuts 1625 E. University Drive, Auburn. 887-1112. Donuts, fritters, and special order cakes for all occasions avail-

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

able. New this summer, Italian Ice and Homemade Slow Churn Ice Cream! www.dsquaredonuts.com.

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• Dairy Queen 2019 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika. 742-9400. DQ Cakes.

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• Edible Arrangements 2900 East University Dr. 120, The Shoppes at Cary Creek, Auburn. 821-9600. Leader in fresh fruit bouquets and gourmet chocolate dipped fruit. Stop by and grab and go or call in a special order. • GiGi’s Cupcakes 132 North College Street, Auburn. 887-2253. Cupcakes for all occasions; many flavors to choose from with new items for all seasons. Special orders taken. www.gigiscupcakesusa.com/auburnalabama • Great American Cookies 1627 Opelika Rd. #10 (inside the mall), Auburn. 821-4553. A special day calls for a special Cookie Cake. And with Great American Cookies’ wide variety of beautiful and delicious offerings, you can give the birthday boy or girl a party to remember. Simply choose your favorite design and add a custom message. Cookie party trays and cookie tins available. • Sweet Malisa’s 108 South 9th Street, Opelika. 737-6565. Cakes and desserts for all occasions. • The Gourmet Tiger 231 N Dean Rd, Suite 2. Auburn. 821-9222; www.

gourmettiger.com. Bakery specializing in birthday cakes of all sizes and designs. Check out our gallery of cake pictures on line.

ENTERTAINMENT • dRMagic 887-8029. www.drmagicfun.com; This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view Dr. Magic will provide balloon twisting fun, magic, and face painting for all parties. We also offer a variety of costumed characters, including princesses, wizards, pirates, and, of course, clowns. • Farmer Brown’s Party Animals www.fbpartyanimals.weebly.com; 334-319-2893. Specializing in petting zoos, birthday parties, live nativity scenes and more. You can party at our place or we can come to you.

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• Jubilee Farm Pony Parties www.jubileefarmpartyparties.com. We can bring the party to you or schedule to visit our farm for pony rides and meet all the farm animals. • Kona Ice 707-3650; www.facebook.com/KonaIceAuburnColumbus; Offering premium shaved ice treat for children (of all ages)! Our Party Truck will come to your location! Party music makes for a festive mood, Kona Ice for all guests, Birthday boy/girl gets a King Kona, Hit the FLAVORWAVE, party favors available, Kona character (when available).

EQUIPMENT / GAME RENTALS LIMOUSINES • 4 Party Plus Rentals “Fun is Our Business”. 749-6419 www.4partyplus.com. Rentals include inflatables, slides, games, concessions, characters and more • Auburn Bounce 319-1451; www.auburnbounce.com; Auburn family owned and operated. Offering a great selection of bounce houses with all of your favorite characters. Also available are inflatable slides, water slides and concessions including: popcorn machines, sno-kones and cotton candy.

• Sweet Cheeks Face and Body Art sweetcheekspainting.com. Let us help you plan the perfect party or event! We offer party packages with face painting, glitter or mica powder tattoos, body art or a combination of our services.

• Space Walk of Auburn 887-5437; www.hearcomesfun.com; Offering space walks, wet/dry slides, big obstacle courses, inflatable games, and more. Concessions available too- popcorn, cotton candy and sno cones.

• The Big Green Bus The Big Green Bus brings the party to you! The Big Green Bus is a school bus that has been converted into a safe and fun preschool gymnastics facility. Call 332-0833 or www.mybiggreenbus.com.

• Star-One Mobile Fun 1204 Stanley Ave, Opelika. 737-5744 www.staronemobilefun.com. Book a backyard party today. Choose from Laser Tag, Mini Golf, Kids Fun Show, Bounce House and Mobile Music. Party rooms available too.

• Memories in Motion Opelika. www.memoriesinmotionclassics.com Our beautiful vehicles are more than just “transportation”. They are rolling art with a history, incredible stories, and which have helped make lifelong memories for some very special couples. They make for a stunning backdrop and canvas for your photographer to use to enhance your special day. Choose from vintage convertibles, Bentley sedan, limousines, party bus and a classic VB Bus. • Tiger Limo 444-4444; www.auburnlimo.com; Offering stretch limousines, corporate car service, busses and antique car rentals for any occasion…you’ll have an experience to remember at the best rates. • Touch of Class Limousine 334-284-2673 in Montgomery. Carry up to 14 passengers at a time. Can pick up kids and ride them around or take them for pizza, etc. and then back home. These limos have all the extras for a fun time - red carpet, DVD for movies, a Birthday sign! Call for details.

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

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PAPER GOODS/ DECORATIONS/ INVITATIONS • Auburn Awards & Fine Papers 127 South College Street, Auburn. 887-7768

• Party City Tiger Town, Opelika. A one-stop party store that provides a wide selection of merchandise at everyday low prices.

PARTY PLANNERS • Special Arrangements 2201 Enterprise Drive, Opelika. 737-2995 www.specialarrangements.com; Offering a wide array of products including selections in tables, chairs, fine china, custom linens, chair covers, tents, staging, dance floors and more.

UNIQUE GIFTS KIDS/ADULT Fringe Kids • Auburn Flowers and Gifts 1499 S College St, Ste F, Auburn. 502-4567. Balloon bouquets, gourmet gifts and flower arrangements. • Check it Out! 239 N Gay Street, Auburn. 826-0308. Balloon bouquets, costumes, party paper products, and more. • Hobby Lobby TigerTown, Opelika. 745-2730. Party supplies, invitations, crafts, and more. • Lynn’s Hallmark Inside the Mall. 887-9889. Birthday invitations and unique gifts.

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116 South 8th Street, Opelika. 745-4497. Upscale consignment clothing for kids ages infant through 14/16. • Dottie Ollie 2131 Interstate Drive, Opelika. 521-0201. We specialize in affordable, quality clothing and gifts for all ages, with a variety of brands and sizes including newborns to tweens! • Fun and Fancy 3051 Fredrick Road, Opelika. 745-2237. We can help you with gift, clothing & shoe needs from expectant mother to baby to child and beyond.

• Kidz World USA Town Center, 1220 Fox Run Avenue, Opelika. 705-8098. Where the Value Never Stops! Name brand children’s clothes at huge savings. Area’s largest selection of children’s clothing and hairbows! Premie, newborn, girls sizes infant to 16, boys sizes infant to 18/20. • Serendipity of Auburn 1550 Opelika Road, Auburn. 329-7475. Unique gifts for babies to adults. Featuring items to monogram such as bags, purses, backpacks, blankets, koozies, jewelry, shoes and much more!

PLACES TO PARTY – ARTISTIC Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn (ad on page 15)

University- 901 South College Street Auburn. 844-1484; www.jcsm.auburn.edu Offering individuals, businesses, and corporations an exciting environment in which to hold social gatherings, presentations, performances or meetings including birthday parties. Rental facilities for parties include the gardens, auditorium, cafe, grand gallery, rotunda, and terrace. • Opelika Parks and Recreation Ceramics Birthday Parties. Denson Arts Center, Opelika.705-5547. Looking for a fun and unique Child’s Birthday Party? Let the Ceramics Department plan your next event! Kids love it! Parents appreciate it! All children enjoy a project that can be completed at the party and taken home. Birthday child receives a special Birthday Plate! Swim Party- Call for more information.

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• Spirited Art 3051 Frederick Road, Opelika. 363-5257 www.myspiritedart.com. Looking for something fun for a group? Call us to book a fun and exciting painting party in Auburn. We can accommodate most groups, small and large. Birthdays, reunions, and church or office gatherings are just a few of the reasons to enjoy having fun and participating in a painting party. Bring a friend, a sense of humor and your favorite beverage and snack. We provide all of the painting supplies (smocks, brushes, easels, canvases and everything in between). • Perch Bead Studio 416 S. Gay Street, Auburn. 209-1378 www.perchbeadstudio.com Perch is a place to create, design and be inspired. Create your own unique jewelry for your birthday party. Tools are provided and materials are available for purchase. Children will have a fun time creating jewelry and memories together at Perch. • Uptown Art Uncorked 2436 East University Drive, Auburn. Paint a canvas masterpiece with step-by-step group instruction.

BOWLING • AMF Auburn Lanes 719 Opelika Road, Auburn. 887-6573; www.amf.com Why not have a ball on your next birthday party or special event with AMF! AMF Bowling Center entertainment packages will make your party a striking success. Kid’s Birthday Bash-Every B-day Bash package includes bowling, bowling shoes, party supplies and plenty of great food and beverages. And you can even choose a package that includes an authentic bowling pin that everyone can sign for the birthday boy or girl.

GYMNASTICS / CHEER / DANCE My Gym Auburn (ad on Inside Front Cover)

300 North Dean Road, Auburn. 346-0987 www.mygym.com/auburn; At My Gym, every birthday party is a perfectly planned celebration created especially for your child, with special song and game requests made prior to the birthday party. Our amazing birthday party specialists will make your birthday party unique and special. And all our birthday parties feature nonstop action-packed activities, games, puppets, songs, and more! Each party also includes, set up, decorations, serving of refreshments, cleanup and much more! • Co Athletics & Wellness 1006 Opelika Road, Auburn. 649-3306; www.athleticsandwellness.com; Laser Tag, Cheer and Tumbling Parties, and other themed parties for both boys and girls. Open to members and non-members. • Premier Spirit Academy 923 B. Stage Road, Auburn. 821-7300 www.premierspiritacademy.com; Two celebration

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packages to choose from. Party includes party space, decorations, party ware, shirt for birthday kid, invitations, party favors, fun staff, set up and clean up. Cheer, tumble and dance on the gym floor, air tramp and more! • Make Your Move Dance Studio “Where Everyone’s a Star”. 116 Columbus Parkway, Opelika. 705-0205; www.makeyourmovedance.com; Reserve your very own Ballerina Birthday. • Xtreme Athletics 3732 Pepperell Parkway, Auburn. 759-7030 www.xtremeathleticsauburn.com; 25,000 square foot facility where parties include air tramp, tumbling mats, balance beam and much more. You provide: cake or whatever food you want your party animals to eat. Smiling kids ready to have fun!Parents relax and let us take care of everything!

MARTIAL ARTS • Auburn Academy of Martial Arts 323 Airport Rd, Suite J in Airport Plaza, Auburn. 5027221; www.auburnacademy.com; Party highlights include: Your child will be a Black Belt for a day! Cake is cut with a real Samurai sword! Every child breaks a board (optional), a unique take-home gift! Medals

and other martial arts items are available for favors! Learning, exercise, games and fun! No experience necessary. 1 1/2 hours long, scheduled on weekends. Other Party Ideas: Host a self-defense party for your teenager; Throw a fitness party for a colleague who is “over the hill”; Kids and parents can party together for some great family time. • Auburn Mixed Martial Arts 2515 East Glenn Ave, Auburn. 887-0818 www.auburnmma.com; Black Belt Birthday Bash! Be a blackbelt Ninja for a day! Break boards, martial arts games, martial arts cake, cut your cake with a real Samurai sword and take home a Samurai sword as a birthday gift! No experience necessary. Schedule a unique party today!

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center- 222 East Drake Avenue, Auburn. Conference rooms, children’s gallery and performance center.

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107 North 9th Street, Opelika. 737-5000 www.cyberzone334.com; New 20,000 square ft facility featuring a laser tag arena with the latest high-tech laser equipment, high energy music, lights and special effects. Private themed party rooms with a variety of party packages available. Play in the large arcade with new retro games, with easy to pay and play new, reloadable cards! Now open- Bounce Zone! Host your birthday, group events, church lock-ins, and more!

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Rockin’ Jump: The Ultimate Trampoline Park

Auburn Parks and Recreation

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501-2930; www.auburnalabama.org; Boykin Community Center- 400 Boykin Street, Auburn. Gym and meeting rooms. Dean Road Recreation Center- 307 South Dean Road, Auburn. Gym, meeting areas and ceramics studio. Frank Brown Recreation Center- 235 Opelika Rd, Auburn. Gym, game rooms, and other rooms for party rental.

5544 Atlanta Hwy, Montgomery. 334-239-2587 www.montgomery.rockinjump.com; Our parties are Rockin! We offer a truly unique party experience with an amazing facility full of exciting attractions where party goers will have a blast. Party attractions include open jump arena, stunt bag area, 2 dodgeball arenas, slam dunk zone, x-beam, and vertigo climbing tower. You will also enjoy a dedicated party host and private party room where you guests can relax and enjoy

TAKE YOUR SWING

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for junior golfers, ages 7-17, taught by PGA

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SESSION 1: June 6-9 · SESSION 2: June 20-23 SESSION 3: July 25-28 · $100 PER SESSION Lunch and a free Par 3 round are included each day. » FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER, CALL 334.749.9042. «

THE ROBERT TRENT JONES GOLF TRAIL AT GRAND NATIONAL 3000 Robert Trent Jones Trail · Opelika, AL 36801 facebook.com/rtjgrandnational · rtjgolf.com

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Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

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themselves while they socialize and eat food and cake. Party rooms are popular, especially on the weekends, so be sure to book in advance. • Auburn Escape Zones 1234 Commerce Drive, Auburn. 205-410-8141 www.auburnescapezones.com You and a small group up to 8 people will be immersed in a room with a specific theme and problem. You must work together as a team to solve puzzles, uncover clues and unlock locks in order to solve the problem or “escape the room.” But your team must work quickly because you only have 60 minutes. Can you escape? Book your event- birthday party, team building, reunions. • Eastdale Mall Montgomery; 334-277-7380. Ice Palace offers a very exciting alternative called Broomball. Broomball or Ice Skating is offered after regular hours at the mall from Monday thru Saturday from 9:00 p.m. until Midnight. Please call 334-277-2088 for more information. The Island Carousel- Tables and chairs next to the carousel is a perfect princess party location. Pay for the carousel rides; no reservations required. • Opelika Parks and Recreation Covington Recreation Center- 213 Carver Avenue, Opelika. 705-5550. Gym and meeting rooms; two playground units; picnic tables in wooded areas with grills; outdoor swimming pool. Denson Drive Recreation Center- 1102 Denson Drive, Opelika. 705-5547. Gym and meeting rooms. Sportsplex- 1001 Andrews Road, Opelika. 705-5560. Adult activity with tables and chairs. Three 930 square foot meeting rooms that can be opened up to one 2791 square foot room; Seats 150 people. Outdoor amphitheater, gym, pool, and splash pad.

OUTDOORS PARKS Auburn City Parks (ad on page 4)

For more information about any park, or to reserve it for a special function, please contact the Parks and Recreation department’s administrative office, 501-2930. Outdoor Pools- Samford Pool & Drake Pool. Come Party With Us!-Not only are Auburn City Pools open daily for the season, but now you can come party with us! Schedule your next birthday, wedding, anniversary, or corporate party at one of Auburn’s pools. We provide the lifeguards, you provide the guests! Waivers must be signed by all participants. Pool rules and regulations apply. Samford pool available on Saturdays from 6 - 8 p.m., or Drake Pool, available daily from 5 - 8 p.m. (available 6 - 8 p.m. only during swim sessions). Outside food and beverages are allowed. No adult beverages or glass containers are allowed. For more information, or to book your party, contact the Pool Manager at 501-2957. Bowden Park, 340 Bowden Drive. The facilities are a playground, an open, grassy area, and a swingset. Felton Little Park (the sand park), 341 E Glenn Ave. A playground with swings and picnic tables, as well as some baseball fields Hickory Dickory Park, 1399 Hickory Lane. A unique playground experience for children with multiple levels of play including ropes, swings, slides, climbing and

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more. A separate area for smaller children and age appropriate play structures. Picnic tables, restrooms and large grassy area. Kiesel Park, 520 Chadwick Ln. Kiesel Park is Auburn’s largest park, with a pavilion, a garden, a pond, and a 2 1/4 mile walking trail. The Nunn-Winston house is also located at this park for rental. Martin Luther King Park, 190 Byrd Street. A pavilion with picnic tables, a playground, a basketball goal, and a fenced-in field. Moores Mill Park, 900 E University Dr. Large grassy area, a sand volleyball court, and a wooded area with picnic tables. Sam Harris Park, 850 Foster St. Playground, a pavilion, and a walking trail that is 1/6th of a mile long. Town Creek Park, 1150 S Gay St. Open grassy area and a pavilion, restrooms and a walking trail here that is 0.87 miles long.

Kreher Preserve & Nature Center (ad on page 7)

222 North College Street, Auburn. 707-6512 www.auburn.edu/preserve Must be a member of the Preserve, join us! Our parties are $125 for up to 20 kids- $5 for every child over 20. Party will last from 1.5- 2 hours. A trained naturalist will present a 45 minute program. A teacher/naturalist will also lead the hike (about 35 minutes) if part of the program. Six party themes to choose from: 1) Nuts for Nature, 2) Radical Reptiles, 3) Incredible Insects, 4) Frogs and Fun, 5) Art in Nature, 6) Warm for the Winter. • The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum 2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery. 334-240-4900; A great place to host a birthday party. The sights and sounds of the Zoo make an exciting and exotic backdrop for any special occasion. Shelters can be reserved in advance; and are located at the front gate area or the new playground. Rental fees start as low as $50 for a three-hour rental. Picnics, outside food and beverages are allowed at all shelters; however, we do ask that you refrain from using cups with lids and/or straws, no balloons and no cooking devices of any sort. These are not allowed for the protection and safekeeping of our animals. All guests must clean and vacate the shelter after rental time has elapsed. • Opelika City Parks For rental information call the Opelika Recreation Department, 705-5560. Aquatics Center Pool and Splash Park- 1001 Andrews Road, Opelika. The indoor, zero entry pool and outdoor splash pad can be reserved for a party. Rental of the pool includes a party room with table and chairs. The splash park rental includes an outdoor picnic table with an umbrella and chairs. Floral Park, 600 Floral Street- features 3 Adult Softball Fields, One Control Building with Restrooms, Open Play Field, Playground ,Family Area with horseshoes and shuffle board. Municipal Park - A beautiful city park located across the street from the Opelika Recreation Center on Denson Drive. The park contains both a shelter and a gazebo with picnic tables. A unique attraction in the park is the Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train. The train runs seasonally and is also available for rental. Playgrounds are located throughout the site. Spring Villa, 1474 Lee Road 148. 350 acre park with an antebellum house, outdoor volley-ball courts, horseshoe pit, campground with hookups for 24 spaces, Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

campground lodge suitable for gatherings, walking trails, day camp compound, restrooms, outside band stand, nature trails, open play area, picnic tables and grills among the wooded areas, and picnic shelters.

PHOTOGRAPHERS Picture Perfect by Candy (ad on page 37)

www.pictureperfectbycandy.com; Call Candy at 663-3343 or cavera4@bellsouth.net. Picture Perfect is a full service studio, specializing in contemporary artistic portraiture of children, tweens and teens. Other services include canvas wraps, standout mounting, custom albums and coffee table books. Unique and colorful custom framing available.

www.columbusicerink.org. Put your party plans on ice! Book your next birthday celebration at the Columbus Ice Rink! Guests will enjoy the perfect party on ice, complete with activities and a private area to eat and enjoy the rest of your celebration. With a full service cleanup crew and a personal party host, Columbus Ice Rink is at your service! • Eastdale Mall Montgomery; 334-277-7380. Ice Palace offers a very exciting alternative called Broomball. Broomball or Ice Skating is offered after regular hours at the mall from Monday thru Saturday from 9:00 p.m. until Midnight. Please call 334-277-2088 for more information. • The Skate Center 1221 Commerce Drive, Auburn. 821-1127. The only indoor, roller skating rink in the Auburn / Opelika area.

SPORTS

• Brick Oven Pizza 2520 Enterprise Dr., Opelika. 745-0223. Ask about “create your own personal pizza” party. Each party guest can make their own pizza from scratch.

Auburn Parks and Recreation

• Chick-fil-A Village Mall-1627 Opelika Rd Ste 54, Auburn. 887-5429. Party space available inside the mall. Check with management for “The Cow” appearances. Tiger Town- 2052 Tiger Town Pkwy, Opelika. 741-7112. Indoor playground. • CiCi’s Pizza Buffet 821-2600; 1550 Opelika Road, Suite #30, Auburn. Endless pizza buffet, salad, pasta, and dessert. • McDonald’s You bring the kids, we’ll make the party. Super-fun for the kids, stress-free for you! We’ve got this party thing down to a science: Happy Meals, cake, decorations, party favors. Auburn- 2372 College Street. 502-8900. Outdoor playground. Ronald Drive-Across from the Mall, Auburn. 821-5303. New indoor playground. Opelika- 1104 Columbus Pkwy. 749-5648. • Niffer’s Place 1151 Opelika Road, Auburn, 821-3118; 917 South Railroad Ave, Opelika, 787-5989. Offering a fun, family atmosphere for parties and events. • Shakey’s Pizza 2487 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn. 826-0060. The perfect place for any event. Bring the kids’ friends for an easy birthday party - we do all the cooking and clean up! Party room in the back next to all the tokens, games, and prizes!

SKATING • Columbus Ice Rink 400 Fourth Street, Columbus, Ga. (706) 225-4500.

RESTAURANTS

• Burger King Auburn-1740 South College Street. 466-8961. Opelika415 Second Avenue. 749-3351. Indoor playground with lots of slides and tables for your party. Add a kids meal which includes a drink and party favor. Opelika-1400 Columbus Parkway. 741-9120. Outdoor playground.

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501-2930; www.auburnalabama.org A Ball of a Birthday- Do you have a child who loves sports? For his party, enjoy fun-filled games of basketball and kickball with a referee-officiated game or a soccer themed day of fun. Package includes decorations, plates and cups, plastic ware, set-up and clean-up. Birthday parties are scheduled in two-hour time intervals. Auburn Soccer Complex Party- Celebrate your big day at the Auburn Soccer Complex! Book your party on our new playground. Two booking options are available: Option 1) playground with access to restrooms or Option 2) playground with access to restrooms and the conference room inside the soccer building. Dates and times are subject to availability. Parties will not be booked on league game days, tournaments, or City events. • Auburn University Kid’s Club Auburn Athletic Dept. 844-9706. Celebrate your birthday while showing your Auburn spirit! For children with birthdays that fall during Auburn’s sports seasons, the Tiger Birthday Program is the perfect option! AU Athletics strives to accommodate birthday parties at almost all of our home sporting events, and the deadline for all birthday reservations is one week prior to the desired game, so make sure to sign up today! Packages are available at the following sports: men’s basketball (not for the Alabama game), women’s basketball, gymnastics, baseball, softball, soccer, volleyball, swimming & diving, and equestrian. Party includes 10 ticket to event, 10 shakers, hot dogs and drinks, an autographed item, birthday donut cake, and name on the scoreboard. • Sports Academy 3716 Pepperell Pkwy- Midway Plaza, Opelika. 7494040; www.sportsacademyauburn.com. “Have a Ball” at your child’s birthday party this year! Our parties are easy, fun and memorable for all kids! Our energetic party coaches will organize and facilitate a variety of fast-paced and fun sports games. Age appropriate games include: relay races, tug-of-war, dodge ball, kick ball, flag football, soccer, baseball, and softball. Kids take turns in our batting cages and home run derby for prizes! AOP

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Everyday Science Is Child’s Play

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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Our kids live in a world filled with opportunities for science learning. Finding meaningful ways to explore everyday science can sometimes be a daunting task. Giving kids the tools to explore simple physics, chemistry and structures around them can both expose them to scientific principles in digestible bits as well as generate specific conversations where kids (and adults) can learn much more about what’s really happening right in their own environment. The following toys and tools explore more closely scientific principles that are constantly working in the world around us, everyday.

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Primary Science Mix & Measure

Magnetic Match Rings (Popular Playthings)

Early handling of magnets reveals their power to attract and repulse, but there is so much more to be discovered about the positive and negative effects of magnetism. The Magnetic Match Rings set offers a structure to explore not only the polarity of magnets and how they react against each other, but also offers the challenge of creating and matching patterns that use and illustrate how magnetism works. Including 10 color-coded magnetic rings (each with a positive and negative side), a magnetic pole stand and 40 challenge cards, this set’s directed activities are a visible demonstration of the largely hidden power of magnets. An attractive choice for both visual and hands-on learners, this set is easily stored and portable for on the go.

(Learning Resources)

While children are early arrivals to the attraction of scooping and pouring, this kind of play is also an ideal opportunity to fine tune the activity into a primary introduction to volume measurement and very basic math.This set includes four measuring cups, three measuring spoons, a lidded bowl and a simple scale. Designed with small hands and short attention spans in mind, activity cards guide young learners through explorations that expose them to density, quantity, weight and more. Coupling kids’ natural desire to pour, mix and observe results, this kit provides the extra tweaks that enhance learning aspects that support their future understanding of measurement and mixtures. Kitchen counters, tub ledges and bathroom sinks are the new frontiers of early science learning!

Robot Mouse Coding Activity Set

Smartphone Science Lab

As STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) learning becomes increasingly vital in the academic toolbox of our kids, finding play resources that support STEM is more important than ever. For the kids who are curious about computers, programming, and video games, the Robot Mouse Coding Set is an ideal primer to lay the groundwork for understanding the science behind these marvels. Coding cards guide kids through simple click programming as they plot the mouse’s path through a maze toward the cheese. The mouse features simple directional and action buttons on its back to make programming easy. With 16 maze grids, 22 walls and three tunnels, the maze is ever-changing and the challenges stay versatile. Spatial reasoning, forward thinking and problem solving become child’s play as the basic concepts of coding are made simple.

As smart phones become an increasingly common part of our adult landscape, kids have begun to mimic our attachment to these tech wonders. But what if a smart phone could become a conduit that channels kids’ attention past the screen and toward exploring the world around them? The Smartphone Science Lab comes with a collection of optical attachments (plus slides and an experiment book) that transform the phone into a tool for exploration. Opening young eyes to light waves, pixels, microscopic viewing, satellites, filtered optics and more, the attachments and guided activities encourage scientific learning using the phone as a tool for discovery. The smart phone ceases to be the destination for a child’s attention, but rather a channel for their broader, independent learning.

(SmartLab Toys)

(Learning Resources)

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

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Family Calendar Thursday, June 23

On the Town sponsored by Opelika Mainstreet 7 p.m. Opelika Mainstreet is excited to announce that On The Town: Downtown Opelika’s Night Out, formerly First Fridays in Downtown Opelika, will still have live music, late night shopping and dining, but with some twists to be announced closer to each event date. www. opelikamainstreet.org Radical Reptiles at Oxbow Meadows 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m., 1 p.m. Our live performance, science shows are sure to add a little excitement to the summer heat. You will get up close with snakes, pythons, alligators, and giant tortoises! Take a shell-fie with your favorite! $5 per person. www.oxbow. columbus.edu

June/July2016

Friday on The Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Families bring lawn chairs or blankets, a picnic basket, cooler, the kids, the pup on a leash and enjoy each other and music provided by local musicians. It’s a great way enjoy a slower pace on Friday. No fee. www.russellmarine.net Friday Night Splash Samford Pool, Auburn. www.auburnalabama.org/pools Fort Benning’s Independence Celebration 2016 www.benningMWR.com

Covington Movie Club: “Inside Out” Covington Center, Opelika. 3:30 p.m. Hot summer day with nothing to do? Come in and enjoy a movie, popcorn and drink! Ages 6-12 years, $3. www.opelika.org Carmike Summer Kids Series: “Home” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com Museum After Hours Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 5-8 p.m. On Thursday nights, the rotunda and cafe (and when the weather’s nice, the terrace) become JCSM After Hours. It’s the perfect place for relaxing, watching the sunset, and listening to music. Hear original songs, jazz, classical, cultural, and sometimes adventurous music fill the pristine spaces at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, Auburn University. www.jcsm. auburn.edu The Market at Ag Heritage Park Red Barn, 580 Donahue Drive, Auburn. 3-6 p.m. The Market is an open-air, growers-only farmers market that operates each Thursday, May-August, at Ag Heritage Park on the Auburn University campus. Hosted by the College of Agriculture, The Market features area vendors offering fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, herbs, ornamental plants and cut flowers as well as locally produced jams and jellies, baked goods, soaps, honey, goat cheese and more.www.agriculture.auburn.edu

Friday, June 24

Liberty Day Celebration Columbiana. www.cityofcolumbiana.com Boys’ Night Out Covington Center, Opelika. 6 p.m. Boys will be boys! Come hang out with the guys and enjoy food, a movie and basketball and more! Ages 7-12 years, $20. www.opelika.org Friday Night Splash sponsored by Auburn Parks and Rec Samford Pool, 465 Wrights Mill Road, Auburn. 6-8 p.m. Back by popular demand, join Aquatics Staff for Friday Night Splash! Enjoy free swim, gator in the diving well, a cookout, music, and much more! FREE admission with Splash Pass or $2/person. www.auburnalabama.org/pools State of Create for Teenagers Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 1-2:30 p.m. State of Create is an exciting drop-in art club for teenagers. With the support of experienced staff members, we’ll explore challenging materials, professional techniques, and new art forms. June 24: Print Shop- Drypoint is the process of incising into a plate with a hard-pointed object in order to make an image. Traditionally, plates were made from copper, but today many artists use plexi-glass. For this project, we’ll experiment with both! Also, there’s a really cool printing press.www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

Saturday, June 25

ArtyPants for Rising K-2nd Graders Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 10-11:30 a.m. Those smarty arty kids in grades K-2nd have plenty to do at JCSM on Saturday mornings! ArtyPants gives your child the opportunity to explore a wide range of materials, make new friends, and create their own art. June 25: Press Ahead- Lithography is the process of using a stone (litho) to make an image (graphic). For this project, we’ll use polyester instead of stone, but the basic idea is the same (we’ll explain more when you get here; it’s complicated!). Also, there’s a really cool big printing press.www.jcsm.auburn.edu StART! For Rising 3rd-5th Graders Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 12:30-2 p.m. For the growing learner, stART! gives your child the opportunity to expand their knowledge of materials. Students will begin considering more advanced applications of the elements of art such as color, line, and shape, as well as the principles of design including harmony and balance. June 25: Press Ahead-Lithography is the process of using a stone (litho) to make an image (graphic). For this project, we’ll use polyester instead of stone, but the basic idea is the same (we’ll explain more when you get here; it’s complicated!). Also, there’s a really cool big printing press. www.jcsm. auburn.edu

event, Sherricka Day is the founder of Crayons, Crafts and Kool Kids (CCK). She has hosted several community vending fairs for kids over the last few years. “I am excited to have a home for the kidpreneurs. The children are so talented and take pride in what they make. What they do inspires other children when they see someone their age ‘behind the counter.’ I hope the community will come down and support our mini-business owners.” www. uptowncolumbusga.com Lake Fest New Waters Farm, 460 Civitan Road, Dadeville. Celebrate summer, the lake and the people/businesses with a fun and Free day at the lake! Local vendors will display their unique crafts, skills and food. www.newwater.com Market Days on Broadway Uptown Columbus, Ga. Broadway transforms, from 9 a.m. 12 noon, where you will find over 200 local vendors selling anything and everything that you can imagine. The Market features many local and organic farmers selling produce, along with soap vendors, home goods, jewelry vendors and baked goods. Our friends from local shelters and animal rescue groups can often be found in the median of Broadway as well alongside other local non-profits! Be sure to check out our Facebook/marketdaysonbroadway to learn more and stay up to date on our special programming events! If you have questions about the Market please call the Uptown office at 706.596.0111 or email Becca at Becca@uptowncolumbusga.com Moms Tell the Truth, Sponsored by East Alabama Birth Village Frank Brown Recreation Center, 235 Opelika Rd, Auburn. Join us in person or virtually via Periscope for #MomsTellTheTruth as we focus on the realities of parenting. The East Alabama Birth Village’s mission is to support all women from pregnancy to preschool, and we believe connection is the key to happy moms and happy kids. This event is offered free of charge and is a service of the East Alabama Birth Village. For more information call (334) 539-8048 or visit www.bithvillage.org Young Eagles Day Columbus Airport, 3250 W. Britt David Road, Columbus, Ga. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). All kids ages 8-17 are invited to take a Free airplane ride over Columbus! Most flights last 20 minutes. The goal is to provide a fun and educational aviation experience. 706324-2453.

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Liberty Day Celebration Columbiana. www.cityofcolumbiana.com Cycling for Sight Montgomery. www.montgomerylionsclub.com

7th Annual Day in Clay Sponsored by Dean Road Ceramics Studio and Auburn Parks and Recreation. 307 South Dean Road, Auburn. 1-4 p.m. During this one-day open house we encourage the whole family to visit our fully-equipped studio, enjoy beverages and snacks as well as watch demonstrations by studio members. Visitors who want to have the experience of working in clay can pay $10 per person and select either an adult or kids project to create. All projects are led by Dean Road Ceramic Studio instructors and will be taught at 1, 2 and 3 p.m. If you want to make a project, stop by the Harris Center to reserve your spot! For more information, please contact Cari Cleckler, Art Education Specialist at (334) 501-2944 orccleckler@auburnalabama.org

A Day in Clay Dean Rd Rec Center. 1-4 p.m. 334-501-2944.

Crayons, Crafts and Kool Kids Outdoor Vending Fair Broadway Median 1000 Block, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Young vendors known as “kidpreneurs” will be onsite selling their handmade goodies to the public. These vendors sell anything from jewelry and tutus to keychains and art-work. It’s an opportunity for boys and girls to earn some extra money for their piggy banks! The host of the

Teens & Tech McWane Science Center, Bham. www.mcwane.org

Fort Benning’s Independence Celebration 2016 www.benningMWR.com Gun & Knife Show Cramton Bowl, Montgomery. www.funinmontgomery.com MC Lightfoot Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. www.mpaconline.org Main Street Farmer’s Market Alexander City. 256-329-9227.

Legomania Auburn Public Library. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

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Family Calendar

Sunday, June 26 Gun & Knife Show Cramton Bowl, Montgomery. www.funinmontgomery.com

Opelika Theatre Company and Niffer’s at the Tracks presents: Murder Mystery- Spring Villain 6 p.m. Ticket includes 3 course dinner, mystery dinner theater show and tax/tip (% of ticket is tax deductible). Reservations are required. $40 per person. 334-663-4480.

Monday, June 27

June/July2016

fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com Baby Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Wednesday, June 29 Free Family Film Fest National Infantry Museum. 9 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org

Free Family Film Fest National Infantry Museum. 9 a.m. & 12:30 p.m. www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org

Toddler Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Auburn Knights Golf Scramble Sponsored by Auburn Knights Alumni Association. 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. The event will be held at the beautiful Robert Trent Jones Grand National Lake Course, 3000 Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Opelika, with a shotgun start at 8:00 a.m. The scramble format will be in teams of four, with three different levels of support, including corporate sponsorships. All proceeds will go to the AKAA Scholarship Fund, which has awarded over $65,000 to AU student members of the Auburn Knights Orchestra over the last 25 years. www.auburnknightsalumni.org

Summer Reading Program sponsored by Auburn Public Library and EAMC Doc Atoms Mad Scientist. 749 East Thatch Ave, Auburn. 334-501-3190. 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. On your mark, Get set, READ! Participants complete reading logs to increase their chances of winning prizes including a VTech Grow and Discover Tree House, Sphero BB-8 Droid, and a Nintendo 3DS XL.

Tuesday, June 28

Market Days on Broadway See details on June 25.

Arti Gras The Town Green at Russell Crossroad, Lake Martin. This annual event features dozens of artists from throughout the south. You can see the juried work of all of our exhibitors that includes but isn’t limited to paintings, jewelry, photography, sculpture and more. www. russellcrossroads.com

The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus. 3 p.m. www.agriculture.auburn.edu. Gamer’s Society Auburn Public Library. 4 p.m. Ages 10-18. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Radical Reptiles at Oxbow Meadows 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m., 1 p.m. Our live performance, science shows are sure to add a little excitement to the summer heat. You will get up close with snakes, pythons, alligators, and giant tortoises! Take a shell-fie with your favorite! $5 per person. www.oxbow. columbus.edu

Museum After Hours Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 5-8 p.m. On Thursday nights, the rotunda and cafe (and when the weather’s nice, the terrace) become JCSM After Hours. It’s the perfect place for relaxing, watching the sunset, and listening to music. Hear original songs, jazz, classical, cultural, and sometimes adventurous music fill the pristine spaces at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, Auburn University. www.jcsm. auburn.edu

Preschool Time Auburn Public Library. 10 a.m. & 1 p.m. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Carmike Summer Kids Series: “Home” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer

Saturday, July 2

Thursday, June 30

Opelika Farmer’s Market Presents OGrows 1103 Glenn Street, Opelika. 3-6 p.m. Come walk around the square each Tuesday this summer from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to find fresh, local produce ranging from heirloom tomatoes to collard greens. You may even find some fresh bread, homemade ice cream or local honey. www.facebook.com/opelikagrows

Summer Swing Concert Series: Dave Potts The Opelika Municipal Park, 1032 South Railroad Avenue, Opelika. 7 p.m. Every Tuesday evening beginning in May the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department hosts a free outdoor concert at 7:00 p.m. at Municipal Park in Opelika. This 15-week concert series offers a wide variety of musical entertainment including Gospel, Jazz, R & B, Praise and Worship, Oldies, Country, Big Band Swing, Folk, and Community Band music. The Opelika Band Boosters will prepare hamburgers and hotdogs in the park for a nominal fee from 6:15-7:30 p.m. These are ideal for a family picnic. Charter Bank of Opelika will provide complimentary lemonade during the concerts. The Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train with long, rich history is being restored and will be back on the tracks in July for complimentary rides. www.opelika-al.gov

Picnic, Concert, & Movie at Sweetland Amp 110 Smith Street, LaGrange, Ga. 7-11 p.m. Bring a picnic dinner and enjoy a patriotic musical program by the Community Orchestra at Sweetland Amphitheater. Compete for the best decorated picnic table or enter the annual food eating contests. 706-298-4534.

Carmike Summer Kids Series: “How To Train Your Dragon 2” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com

Sunday, July 3 Arti Gras See July 2 for details.

64th Annual Opelika Freedom Celebration Sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation and The Orthopedic Clinic. Opelika High School Track. 6:30 p.m. with Fireworks at dark. There will be inflatable games, hamburgers, hotdogs, popcorn, activities for the whole family and entertainment by Route 66. Please call (334) 705-5560 or visit www.opelika.org/opr for more information.

Monday, July 4 Fireworks Cruise Riverfront Park, Montgomery. www.funinmontgomery.com

40th Annual Fourth of July Boat Parade Kowaliga Marina, Lake Martin. 10 a.m. Patrioticallydecorated boats will parade from Kowaliga Marina to Children’s Harbor and back.

Friday, July 1

4th of July Blast Concert and Fireworks The Amp, Lake Martin. Find your spot on the soft grass and soon the earth will shake and the sky over Russell Lands On Lake Martin will burst into a thousand different colors. For 16 years, Russell Lands On Lake Martin has hosted the Southeast’s Largest Fireworks Show over Lake Martin, and this year will be no different! The gates to The AMP will open at 5 p.m., with a concert featuring Sweet Tea and guest The Bank Walkers beginning at 6:30 p.m. www.theamponlakemartin.com

Annual Fourth of July Celebration Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation and Briggs & Stratton. Behind the home side of Duck Samford Football Stadium, 1600 East University Drive, Auburn. Enjoy great food, live music, free goodies courtesy of Briggs and Stratton, and THE best fireworks display in the entire area. The night’s entertainment will feature Reuben’s Bell, a southern band with a modern twist. So grab your picnic

I-Heart Media Old School Block Party Illges Plaza, 10th Street and Broadway, Columbus. 6 p.m. Magic 101.3 Old School Block Party with performances by Klymaxx, Men At Large, D.S.O.S. and The Tony Parkman Revue. This event is free to the public. www.rivercenter.org

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Family Calendar basket, blanket and the family and join us for a fabulous night of entertainment and a chance to show your patriotic spirit! Gates open at 6 p.m. Entertainment begins at 7 p.m. Fireworks begin at 9 p.m. The rain date is Tuesday, July 5th. www.auburnalabama.org

June/July2016

Summer Reading Program sponsored by Auburn Public Library and EAMC: “The Peanuts Movie” 749 East Thatch Ave, Auburn. 334-501-3190. 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. On your mark, Get set, READ! Participants complete reading logs to increase their chances of winning prizes including a VTech Grow and Discover Tree House, Sphero BB-8 Droid, and a Nintendo 3DS XL.

era band, and the 1960’s era band. Admission is $10 at the door. A cash bar will be available and food service is available in the Lakeview Room and Patio Bar before and after the concerts. A complimentary parking lot shuttle will also be available. 334-887-9883.

Thursday, July 7

Auburn Knights Reunion Concert Marriott Grand National, Opelika. 887-9883.

The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus. 3 p.m. www.agriculture.auburn.edu. Radical Reptiles at Oxbow Meadows 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m., 1 p.m. Our live performance, science shows are sure to add a little excitement to the summer heat. You will get up close with snakes, pythons, alligators, and giant tortoises! Take a shell-fie with your favorite! $5 per person. www.oxbow. columbus.edu

Tuesday, July 5

Summer Swing Concert: The Fedoras The Opelika Municipal Park, 1032 South Railroad Avenue, Opelika. 7 p.m. Every Tuesday evening beginning in May the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department hosts a free outdoor concert at 7:00 p.m. at Municipal Park in Opelika, Alabama. This 15-week concert series offers a wide variety of musical entertainment including Gospel, Jazz, R & B, Praise and Worship, Oldies, Country, Big Band Swing, Folk, and Community Band music. The Opelika Band Boosters will prepare hamburgers and hotdogs in the park for a nominal fee from 6:15-7:30 p.m. These are ideal for a family picnic. Charter Bank of Opelika will provide complimentary lemonade during the concerts. The Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train with long, rich history is being restored and will be back on the tracks for complimentary rides. www.opelika-al.gov Radical Reptiles at Oxbow Meadows 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m., 1 p.m. Our live performance, science shows are sure to add a little excitement to the summer heat. You will get up close with snakes, pythons, alligators, and giant tortoises! Take a shell-fie with your favorite! $5 per person. www.oxbow. columbus.edu Opelika Farmer’s Market Presents OGrows 1103 Glenn Street, Opelika. 3-6 p.m. Come walk around the square each Tuesday this summer from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to find fresh, local produce ranging from heirloom tomatoes to collard greens. You may even find some fresh bread, homemade ice cream or local honey. www.facebook.com/opelikagrows Pizza Pizzazz Covington Center, Opelika. Mamma Mia! Prepare pizza in three different styles! Ages 6-11, $10. www.opelika.org Carmike Summer Kids Series: “How To Train Your Dragon 2” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com Fractured Fairy Tale Auburn Public Library. 3:30 p.m. Join the staff for a fanciful frolic in the traditional and non-traditional folklore. A tale that is a funny ‘fractured’ version of the traditional tales. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Wednesday, July 6

Messy Madness Covington Center, Opelika. 3:00 p.m. Wanna make a mess and NOT get in trouble for it? Enjoy messy creations, food fights and slimy crafts! All ages invited, $10. www.opelika. org

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

Mile Twelve in Concert at Sundilla 450 Thach Avenue, Auburn. Sundilla seems to have a knack for finding young people who are taking traditional music and putting their own fresh spin on it to create a sound that is at once new and exciting, yet traditional and respectful. Mile Twelve is the latest of those bands, following the trail blazed by the likes of Act of Congress, Harpeth Rising and Runa. Mile Twelve is a fresh, hard driving young band beautifully walking the line between original and traditional bluegrass. Admission will be $15 at the door, and $12 advance tickets are available at Spicer’s Music, Blooming Colors, and at www.sundillamusic.com Covington Movie Club: “The Peanuts Movie” Covington Center, Opelika. 3:30 p.m. Hot summer day with nothing to do? Come in and enjoy a movie, popcorn and drink! Ages 6-12 years, $3. www.opelika.org Carmike Summer Kids Series: “Kung Fu Panda 2” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com

Friday, July 8

Auburn Knights Reunion Concert Marriott Grand National, Opelika. 887-9883. “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” Spring Opera House, 103 10thStreet, Columbus, Ga. Based on the book by C.S. Lewis and set in England during WWII, four children wander through an old wardrobe into the exciting, never-to-be-forgotten land of Narnia. There they join an epic battle of good and evil, led by the gentle lion Aslan and the evil White Witch. This story of love, faith, and courage is a true celebration of life. www. springeroperahouse.org/shows/lion-witch-wardrobe/ State of Create for Teenagers Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 1-2:30 p.m. State of Create is an exciting drop-in art club for teenagers. With the support of experienced staff members, we’ll explore challenging materials, professional techniques, and new art forms. July 8: Stitch Fix-Sewing and weaving can be done using a wide range of materials, for some really cool effects. Crafty ideas on Pinterest and Etsy might inspire you to create some cool fabric, yarn, and sewn objects. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Friday on The Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Families bring lawn chairs or blankets, a picnic basket, cooler, the kids, the pup on a leash and enjoy each other and music provided by local musicians. It’s a great way enjoy a slower pace on Friday. No fee. www.russellmarine.net Auburn Knights Reunion Concerts 3700 Robert Trent Jones Trail, Opelika. 7:30-10:30 p.m. At their annual reunion, Auburn Knights from near and far gather to celebrate the band’s rich tradition and pay tribute to the music of their 86 year history. This evening’s concerts feature the 1930’s/1940’s era band, the 1950’s

Saturday, July 9

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” See details under July 8. Zumba Powerthon! Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation. 235 Opelika Road, Auburn. 9-11 a.m. Shed your alter ego and join your fellow superheroes for a FREE Zumba Powerthon on July 9 in celebration of National Park and Recreation Month! This year’s theme is: When Our Powers Combine, We Change Lives! Discover your super powers at your local parks and recreation! Your favorite Zumba instructors from the Auburn-Opelika area will be there to lead 100 minutes of super powered Zumba moves. Prizes will be awarded for the best costume, so make sure to dress up! FREE to the public. 334-501-2930. Market Days on Broadway See details on June 25. ArtyPants for Rising K-2nd Graders Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 10-11:30 a.m. Those smarty arty kids in grades K-2nd have plenty to do at JCSM on Saturday mornings! ArtyPants gives your child the opportunity to explore a wide range of materials, make new friends, and create their own art. July 9: Over-Under, Over-UnderSewing and weaving can be done using a wide range of materials, for some really cool effects. Crafty ideas on Pinterest and Etsy might inspire you to create some cool fabric, yarn, and sewn objects. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Crayons, Crafts and Kool Kids Outdoor Vending Fair Broadway Median 1000 Block, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Young vendors known as “kidpreneurs” will be onsite selling their handmade goodies to the public. These vendors sell anything from jewelry and tutus to keychains and art-work. It’s an opportunity for boys and girls to earn some extra money for their piggy banks! The host of the event, Sherricka Day is the founder of Crayons, Crafts and Kool Kids (CCK). She has hosted several community vending fairs for kids over the last few years. “I am excited to have a home for the kidpreneurs. The children are so talented and take pride in what they make. What they do inspires other children when they see someone their age ‘behind the counter.’ I hope the community will come down and support our mini-business owners.” www.uptowncolumbusga.com

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StART! For Rising 3rd-5th Graders Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 12:30-2 p.m. For the growing learner, stART! gives your child the opportunity to expand their knowledge of materials. Students will begin considering more advanced applications of the elements of art such as color, line, and shape, as well as the principles of design including harmony and balance. July 9: Over-Under, OverUnder- Sewing and weaving can be done using a wide range of materials, for some really cool effects. Crafty ideas on Pinterest and Etsy might inspire you to create some cool fabric, yarn, and sewn objects. www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Sunday, July 10

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” See details under July 8.

Monday, July 11

Shop the Tracks 614 North Railroad Ave, Opelika. 5:30-8:30 p.m. Shop the Tracks is here to support local businesses. Each event will feature fashion shows, food, giveaways and delicious treats. Free admission! www.bottlingplanteventcenter.com

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Family Calendar Second Saturday Lee County Historical Society Museum. Loachapoka. 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 PGA Tour Tournament/Barbasol Championship 3700 Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail, Opelika. A PGA Tour tournament sponsored by Barbasol, the No. 1 shaving cream brand in the U.S., debuted in 2015 at the Robert Trent Jones Golf Trail at Grand National. The tournament will return for the second year on July 11 - 17, 2016. A four-year agreement establishing the Barbasol Championship had been announced at the Alabama State Capitol by Governor Robert Bentley and representatives from the PGA Tour and the Robert Trent Jones Trail Foundation, which will serve as the tournament host organization. The Barbasol Championship has become part of the FedEx Cup competition, awarding 300 points to the winner. www.barbasolchampionship.com

Tuesday, July 12

PGA Tour Tournament/Barbasol Championship See July 11 for details. Opelika Farmer’s Market Presents OGrows 1103 Glenn Street, Opelika. 3-6 p.m. Come walk around the square each Tuesday this summer from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to find fresh, local produce ranging from heirloom tomatoes to collard greens. You may even find some fresh bread, homemade ice cream or local honey. www.facebook.com/opelikagrows Radical Reptiles at Oxbow Meadows 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m., 1 p.m. Our live performance, science shows are sure to add a little excitement to the summer heat. You will get up close with snakes, pythons, alligators, and giant tortoises! Take a shell-fie with your favorite! $5 per person. www.oxbow. columbus.edu Summer Forest Friends (1st class of summer session). Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn. 9 a.m. This award-winning program is a unique educational experience for pre-school children and their parents that incorporates hands-on activities with nature and environmental awareness. Session fee is $25 per child. Membership with the KPNC at the Magnolia level ($35) or above is required. www.auburn.edu/preserve

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Discovery Hike Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn. 9 a.m. Learn all about beautiful butterflies. Hike to our butterfly garden to observe butterflies in all stages of life cycle. Explore the preserve and learn something new each month about plants, wildlife and nature with a trained naturalist who will offer your family

June/July2016

fun opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and exercise! For families with children ages 5 to 12. Each month features a new seasonal theme. Groups meet at the pavilion. Guided tours are free. Donations are welcomed. Cancelled in the event of rain. www.auburn.edu/preserve Summer Swing Concert Series: Crossroads The Opelika Municipal Park, 1032 South Railroad Avenue, Opelika. 7 p.m. Every Tuesday evening beginning in May the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department hosts a free outdoor concert at 7:00 p.m. at Municipal Park in Opelika. This 15-week concert series offers a wide variety of musical entertainment including Gospel, Jazz, R & B, Praise and Worship, Oldies, Country, Big Band Swing, Folk, and Community Band music. The Opelika Band Boosters will prepare hamburgers and hotdogs in the park for a nominal fee from 6:15-7:30 p.m. These are ideal for a family picnic. Charter Bank of Opelika will provide complimentary lemonade during the concerts. The Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train with long, rich history is being restored and will be back on the tracks for complimentary rides. www. opelika-al.gov

a shell-fie with your favorite! Admission: $5 per person. www.oxbow.columbus.edu Museum After Hours Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 5-8 p.m. On Thursday nights, the rotunda and cafe (and when the weather’s nice, the terrace) become JCSM After Hours. It’s the perfect place for relaxing, watching the sunset, and listening to music. Hear original songs, jazz, classical, cultural, and sometimes adventurous music fill the pristine spaces at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, Auburn University. www.jcsm. auburn.edu Nature Walk: Butterflies Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn. 8:30-9:30 a.m. Learn all about beautiful butterflies. Walk to our butterfly garden to observe butterflies in all stages of life cycle. Join our guides for a peaceful morning walk as you take in the many sights and sounds of the Louise Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Nature Walks offer excellent opportunities to socialize and learn, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Walks are for adults only.www.auburn.edu/ preserve

Carmike Summer Kids Series: “Kung Fu Panda 2” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com

Friday, July 15

Jr. Bakers Covington Center, Opelika. Junior bakers will experience baking dishes with a surprise baker! Ages 9-12 years, $15. www.opelika.org

PGA Tour Tournament/Barbasol Championship See July 11 for details.

Wednesday, July 13

PGA Tour Tournament/Barbasol Championship See July 11 for details. Summer Reading Program sponsored by Auburn Public Library and EAMC Authur Atsma Street Magician. 749 East Thatch Ave, Auburn. 334-501-3190. 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. On your mark, Get set, READ! Participants complete reading logs to increase their chances of winning prizes including a VTech Grow and Discover Tree House, Sphero BB-8 Droid, and a Nintendo 3DS XL.

Thursday, July 14

The Market at Ag Heritage Park AU Campus. 3 p.m. www.agriculture.auburn.edu. Float-N-Movie: “Minions” Samford Pool. Enjoy a family movie under the stars while relaxing and floating on a tube or on the pool deck. Participants are encouraged to bring their favorite inflatable from home. Concessions will be open throughout the evening. Free admission for Splash Pass or $2/person. www.auburnalabama.org/pools

33rd Annual World Deer Expo BJCC. www.bjcc.org

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” See details under July 8. State of Create for Teenagers Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 1-2:30 p.m. State of Create is an exciting drop-in art club for teenagers. With the support of experienced staff members, we’ll explore challenging materials, professional techniques, and new art forms. July 15: Different Strokes-Let’s spend some time painting. This fun session with both acrylic and watercolor paints will let you explore one of the most popular art media. www.jcsm. auburn.edu Friday on The Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Families bring lawn chairs or blankets, a picnic basket, cooler, the kids, the pup on a leash and enjoy each other and music provided by local musicians. It’s a great way enjoy a slower pace on Friday. No fee. www.russellmarine.net

Saturday, July 16 33rd Annual World Deer Expo BJCC. www.bjcc.org

PGA Tour Tournament/Barbasol Championship See July 11 for details.

Goofy Games Covington Center, Opelika. 3 p.m. Games, games, and more games! Enjoy relays, like egg drop, and group games, like Twister! Ages 6-12 years, $10. www.opelika. org

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” See details under July 8.

Carmike Summer Kids Series: “Monsters vs Aliens” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com Radical Reptiles at Oxbow Meadows 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m., 1 p.m. Our live performance, science shows are sure to add a little excitement to the summer heat. You will get up close with snakes, pythons, alligators, and giant tortoises! Take

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Family Calendar The Fire Dogs, Ashley Jackson and more! Don’t forget, it is about more than music…it’s a celebration of the arts. Regional artists and craftsmen display their talents with us on the banks of the Coosa River. Be sure to journey through the trees on the riverwalk to see original paintings, sculpture, carvings and more. Kid Zone full of bouncing fun! www.riverandblues.net Market Days on Broadway See details on June 25. StART! For Rising 3rd-5th Graders Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 12:30-2 p.m. For the growing learner, stART! gives your child the opportunity to expand their knowledge of materials. Students will begin considering more advanced applications of the elements of art such as color, line, and shape, as well as the principles of design including harmony and balance. July 16: Brush RushLet’s spend some time painting. This fun session with watercolors will let you explore one of the most popular art media. www.jcsm.auburn.edu

June/July2016

wide variety of musical entertainment including Gospel, Jazz, R & B, Praise and Worship, Oldies, Country, Big Band Swing, Folk, and Community Band music. The Opelika Band Boosters will prepare hamburgers and hotdogs in the park for a nominal fee from 6:15-7:30 p.m. These are ideal for a family picnic. Charter Bank of Opelika will provide complimentary lemonade during the concerts. The Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train with long, rich history is being restored and will be back on the tracks complimentary rides. www.opelika-al.gov Opelika Farmer’s Market Presents OGrows 1103 Glenn Street, Opelika. 3-6 p.m. Come walk around the square each Tuesday this summer from 3:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. to find fresh, local produce ranging from heirloom tomatoes to collard greens. You may even find some fresh bread, homemade ice cream or local honey. www.facebook.com/opelikagrows

Annual Lions Lake Martin Charity Poker Run Ridge Marina, Alexander City. The Poker Run will begin at the Ridge Marina with registration at 8:30 a.m. and will end at Kowaliga Restaurant at Kowaliga. Those participating will travel from the Ridge Marina to River North, Harbor Pointe Marina, Real Island and Kowaliga Marina. Awards and Post-Run party to be held at 4 p.m. Kowaliga Restaurant. Proceeds will go to the Alexander City Lions Club to benefit local charities. www.russellmarine.net

PGA Tour Tournament/Barbasol Championship See July 11 for details. “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” See details under July 8.

Tuesday, July 19

Summer Forest Friends (2nd class of summer session) Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn. 9 a.m. This award-winning program is a unique educational experience for pre-school children and their parents that incorporates hands-on activities with nature and environmental awareness. Session fee is $25 per child. Membership with the KPNC at the Magnolia level ($35) or above is required. www.auburn.edu/preserve Radical Reptiles at Oxbow Meadows 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m., 1 p.m. Our live performance, science shows are sure to add a little excitement to the summer heat. You will get up close with snakes, pythons, alligators, and giant tortoises! Take a shell-fie with your favorite! Admission: $5 per person.www. oxbow.columbus.edu Carmike Summer Kids Series: “Monsters vs Aliens” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com Wacky Water Games Covington Center, Opelika. Be prepared to get soaked with bubbles, water balloons and more! Ages 6-10 years, $10. www.opelika.org Summer Swing Concert Series: Muse The Opelika Municipal Park, 1032 South Railroad Avenue, Opelika. 7 p.m. Every Tuesday evening beginning in May the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department hosts a free outdoor concert at 7:00 p.m. at Municipal Park in Opelika, Alabama. This 15-week concert series offers a

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

Friday, July 22

Back to School Ice Cream Social Covington Center, Opelika. 1 p.m. Cool off from the heat with ice cream sundaes you decorate, while meeting new kids right before school starts! Ages 5-12 years, $5. www. opelika.org State of Create for Teenagers Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 1-2:30 p.m. State of Create is an exciting drop-in art club for teenagers. With the support of experienced staff members, we’ll explore challenging materials, professional techniques, and new art forms. July 22: Tile Style- making mosaics is a great way to make a very durable, long-lasting work of art. Using stone, glass, ceramic, and masonry, we’ll make some neat mosaics. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Friday on The Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Families bring lawn chairs or blankets, a picnic basket, cooler, the kids, the pup on a leash and enjoy each other and music provided by local musicians. It’s a great way enjoy a slower pace on Friday. No fee. www.russellmarine.net

Sunday, July 17 33rd Annual World Deer Expo BJCC. www.bjcc.org

Wednesday, July 20

Summer Reading Program sponsored by Auburn Public Library and EAMC Russell Davis Magician. 749 East Thatch Ave, Auburn. 334501-3190. 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. On your mark, Get set, READ! Participants complete reading logs to increase their chances of winning prizes including a VTech Grow and Discover Tree House, Sphero BB-8 Droid, and a Nintendo 3DS XL.

Thursday, July 21

The Market at Ag Heritage Park Red Barn, 580 Donahue Drive, Auburn. 3-6 p.m. The Market is an open-air, growers-only farmers market that operates each Thursday, May-August, at Ag Heritage Park on the Auburn University campus. Hosted by the College of Agriculture, The Market features area vendors offering fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables, herbs, ornamental plants and cut flowers as well as locally produced jams and jellies, baked goods, soaps, honey, goat cheese and more. www.agriculture.auburn.edu Covington Movie Club: “Hotel Transylvania 2” Covington Center, Opelika. 3:30 p.m. Hot summer day with nothing to do? Come in and enjoy a movie, popcorn and drink! Ages 6-12 years, $3. www.opelika.org Museum After Hours Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 5-8 p.m. On Thursday nights, the rotunda and cafe (and when the weather’s nice, the terrace) become JCSM After Hours. It’s the perfect place for relaxing, watching the sunset, and listening to music. Hear original songs, jazz, classical, cultural, and sometimes adventurous music fill the pristine spaces at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, Auburn University. www.jcsm. auburn.edu Carmike Summer Kids Series: “Rio 2” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com

Saturday, July 23 Wild West Days Heart of Dixie Railroad Museum, Calera. www.hodrrm.org

ArtyPants for Rising K-2nd Graders Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 10-11:30 a.m. Those smarty arty kids in grades K-2nd have plenty to do at JCSM on Saturday mornings! ArtyPants gives your child the opportunity to explore a wide range of materials, make new friends, and create their own art. July 23: Take a Shot- Today we’ll be using materials we find in nature and special paper to expose our own photographs. We’ll play around with longexposure light drawing too! www.jcsm.auburn.edu Crayons, Crafts and Kool Kids Outdoor Vending Fair Broadway Median 1000 Block, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Young vendors known as “kidpreneurs” will be onsite selling their handmade goodies to the public. These vendors sell anything from jewelry and tutus to keychains and art-work. It’s an opportunity for boys and girls to earn some extra money for their piggy banks! The host of the event, Sherricka Day is the founder of Crayons, Crafts and Kool Kids (CCK). She has hosted several community vending fairs for kids over the last few years. “I am excited to have a home for the kidpreneurs. The children are so talented and take pride in what they make. What they do inspires other children when they see someone their age ‘behind the counter.’ I hope the community will come down and support our mini-business owners.” www.uptowncolumbusga.com Market Days on Broadway See details on June 25. StART! For Rising 3rd-5th Graders Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 12:30-2 p.m. For the growing learner, stART! gives your child the opportunity to expand their knowledge of materials. Students will begin considering more advanced applications of the elements of art such as color, line, and shape, as well as the principles of design including harmony and balance. July 23: Take a ShotToday we’ll be using materials we find in nature and special

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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Family Calendar paper to expose our own photographs. We’ll play around with long-exposure light drawing too! www.jcsm.auburn. edu

June/July2016

award-winning program is a unique educational experience for pre-school children and their parents that incorporates hands-on activities with nature and environmental awareness. Session fee is $25 per child. Membership with the KPNC at the Magnolia level ($35) or above is required. www.auburn.edu/preserve

4th Annual Sun Festival July 23-30. Alexander City. Sun Festival Alexander City is a community development and tourism initiative designed to enhance the lifestyles in the Alexander City and Lake Martin areas. We are looking forward to a fun-filled, action-packed week of excitement for our entire community including art contest, pageant, music, battle of the bands and more. www.alexandercitychamber.com

Wednesday, July 27

Science on Saturdays: Butterflies Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn. 10-11 a.m. Enjoy a program on beautiful butterflies and their amazing life cycle. Learn tips to attracting butterflies to your yard. We will hike out (or you can drive over to north parking lot) to our butterfly garden. Admission is $5 for non-members and $4 for members. Children 3 and under are free. Pre-registration is not required. Canceled in the event of rain.www.auburn.edu/ preserve

Summer Reading Program sponsored by Auburn Public Library and EAMC Carol Cain Storyteller. 749 East Thatch Ave, Auburn. 334-501-3190. 2 p.m. & 6 p.m. On your mark, Get set, READ! Participants complete reading logs to increase their chances of winning prizes including a VTech Grow and Discover Tree House, Sphero BB-8 Droid, and a Nintendo 3DS XL.

Adventure Day Covington Center, Opelika. 1-4 p.m. Spend your afternoon on a scavenger hunt! Ages 5-12 years, $10. www.opelika. org

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” See details under July 8.

“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” See details under July 8. Family Storytime Auburn Public Library. 4 p.m. Bring the family and join us for interactive stories, songs, parachute games and family fun. www.auburnalabama.org/library

Carmike Summer Kids Series: “Rio 2” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com Summer Swing Concert Series: James Brown Trio The Opelika Municipal Park, 1032 South Railroad Avenue, Opelika. 7 p.m. Every Tuesday evening beginning in May the Opelika Parks and Recreation Department hosts a free outdoor concert at 7:00 p.m. at Municipal Park in Opelika, Alabama. This 15-week concert series offers a wide variety of musical entertainment including Gospel, Jazz, R & B, Praise and Worship, Oldies, Country, Big Band Swing, Folk, and Community Band music. The Opelika Band Boosters will prepare hamburgers and hotdogs in the park for a nominal fee from 6:15-7:30 p.m. These are ideal for a family picnic. Charter Bank of Opelika will provide complimentary lemonade during the concerts. The Rocky Brook Rocket, a vintage train with long, rich history is being restored and will be back on the tracks for complimentary rides. www.opelika-al.gov Summer Forest Friends (Last class of summer session). Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn. 9 a.m. This

Friday Night Splash Samford Pool, Auburn. 6-8 p.m. Back by popular demand, join Aquatics Staff and enjoy free swim, gator in the diving well, a cookout, music, and much more. Free admission with Splash Pass or $2/person. www.auburnalabama.org

Saturday, July 30

Tuesday, July 26

State of Create for Teenagers Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 1-2:30 p.m. State of Create is an exciting drop-in art club for teenagers. With the support of experienced staff members, we’ll explore challenging materials, professional techniques, and new art forms. July 29: Pepakura- Papercraft has become increasingly popular in the past couple of years. Using templates and instructions we’ll make intricate folded paper sculptures, and even invent some of our own. Tools will be sharp at this session! www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Sunday, July 24

pace on Friday. No fee. www.russellmarine.net

Market Days on Broadway See details on June 25.

Thursday, July 28

Carmike Summer Kids Series: “The Peanuts Movie’” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com Museum After Hours Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, 901 South College Street, Auburn. 5-8 p.m. On Thursday nights, the rotunda and cafe (and when the weather’s nice, the terrace) become JCSM After Hours. It’s the perfect place for relaxing, watching the sunset, and listening to music. Hear original songs, jazz, classical, cultural, and sometimes adventurous music fill the pristine spaces at the Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art, Auburn University. www.jcsm. auburn.edu Radical Reptiles at Oxbow Meadows 3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, Ga. 10 a.m., 1 p.m. Our live performance, science shows are sure to add a little excitement to the summer heat. You will get up close with snakes, pythons, alligators, and giant tortoises! Take a shell-fie with your favorite! Admission: $5 per person. www.oxbow.columbus.edu

Friday, July 29

Back to School Bash Covington Center, Opelika. 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Come enjoy one last day of summer with food and fun! All ages, free. www.opelika.org Friday on The Green Russell Crossroads, Alexander City. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Families bring lawn chairs or blankets, a picnic basket, cooler, the kids, the pup on a leash and enjoy each other and music provided by local musicians. It’s a great way enjoy a slower

Jana Kramer Concert and Fireworks Charles E. Bailey Sportplex Football Stadium, Alexander City. Tickets are now available at www.alexandercitychamber.com. Only $20 per person. Young Eagles Day Columbus Airport, 3250 W. Britt David Road, Columbus, Ga. 8:30-11:30 a.m. (weather permitting). All kids ages 8-17 are invited to take a Free airplane ride over Columbus! Most flights last 20 minutes. The goal is to provide a fun and educational aviation experience. 706324-2453.

August 2

Carmike Summer Kids Series: “The Peanuts Movie” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10 a.m. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com

August 4

Carmike Summer Kids Series: “The Penguins of Madagascar” Tiger 13, Opelika and Wynnsong, Auburn. 10am. Summer fun for kids of all ages! $4.00 includes admission, drink and popcorn, plus tax. A fun, new movie each week for the family! www.carmike.com

August 5

End of Summer Luau & Movie Samford Pool, Auburn. 5-8 p.m. Cool off from the summer heat, celebrate the last hazy nights of summer, close your eyes and imagine the tropical fun of the Hawaiian Islands. “Do the Limbo” and Hula Hoop contests, and listen to the sounds of the ukulele, steel drum music, and the sounds of

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Family Calendar reggae. Don’t forget to wear your best grass skirt for the hula dance around the pool. The Big Kahuna Award will be given out to the individual who arrives with the most colorful Hawaiian shirt. Leis will be given out, along with other fun party favors, and some yummy Hawaiian treats will be served! The movie “Lilo and Stitch” will be shown. FREE admission with Splash Pass or $2/person.

August 6

Opelika Sportsplex Kids Triathlon Opelika Sportsplex & Aquatic Center. For ages 6-15 years. Age and race specifics: Ages 6-8: swim 50 yards, bike 2 miles and run 500 yards; Ages 9-11: swim 100 yards, bike 4 miles and run 1 mile, Ages 12-15: Swim 150 yards, bike 6 miles and run 2 miles. Participants will wear tri tags. Awards will be given to the top 3 finishers, male and female, in each age group. Each participant will receive a t-shirt and medal. www.sportsplextriforkids.com

August 9

Discovery Hike Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn. 9 a.m. Learn all about the fascinating world of bogs and the incredibly adaptive plants live that live there! For families with children ages 5 to 12. Guided tours are free. Donations are welcomed. Cancelled in the event of rain. www.auburn.edu/preserve

August 11

Nature Walk Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, 2222 North College Street, Auburn. 8:30 a.m. Learn all about the fascinating world of bogs and the incredibly adaptive plants live that live there! For families with children ages 5 to 12. Guided tours are free. Donations are welcomed. Cancelled in the event of rain. www.auburn.edu/preserve

August 21

Tri Chewacla 124 Shell Toomer Pwky, Auburn. Registration is open to the first 250 participants in each race. With the sport of triathlon experiencing tremendous growth, we must limit the number of participants to ensure an enjoyable and elite experience. Register early. Race Distances- Swim: 500 meters, Bike: 12 miles, Run: 3.1 mile. Tri Chewacla Sprint Triathlon is a USAT sanctioned event…all competitors at all USAT sanctioned events must have a USAT license. www. usatriathlon.org

August 27

6th Annual Marie W. Wooten Memorial Run Proceeds will benefit the Marie W. Wooten Memorial Scholarship in COSAM. Roosevelt Concourse in front of Parker Hall, AU Campus. Race day registration 6:30 a.m. Race start times: 10K-7:45 a.m., 5K-7:45 a.m., 1 mile 8 a.m. $20-$35, email for more info, brook@auburn.edu. www.facebook.com/wooten5K

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 Alabama Shakespeare Festival. www.asf.net.

Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016

June/July2016

Bible Study Fellowship Held at Parkway Baptist Church, Thursdays at 10 a.m., (334) 546-1386. BJCC • “Wicked”. June 27 - July 15. www.bjcc.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. Capitol Showcase Consumer Art Exhibition May 4 - June 29. Alabama State Capital. www.mh.alabama.gov/capitalshowcase Center for Puppetry Arts www.atlanta.net. Chick-fil-A Family Night at Tigertown Every Thursday night. DeSoto Caverns Park www.DeSotoCavernsPark.com. Discovery Hikes Explore the preserve and learn something new each month about plants, wildlife and nature with a trained naturalist who will offer your family fun opportunities for hands-on learning, exploration, and exercise! Discovery Hikes are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. For families with children ages 5 to 12. Free admission. Donations welcomed. Cancelled in the event of rain. Forest Ecology Preserve & Nature Center is located at 2222 N. College Street, Auburn, and is just north of the AU Fisheries complex. Expressions of a BraveHeart Program A fine arts program for teens and young adults with special needs (ages 11–21), sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation, utilizing Auburn University faculty and students, as well as community volunteers. Two 30-minute sessions of art, dance/creative movement and music will be offered and participants will select 2 of the 3 classes. Expressions meets every 2nd and 4th Monday twice a month for 1.5 hours. Opelika Sportsplex, 334.705.5560. www.opelikasportsplex.com. The Fox Theatre www.foxtheatre.org. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center Summer Invitational 2016, July 8 - August 19. An exhibition of two-and-three-dimensional mixed-media works. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, Auburn. www.auburnalabama.org Jasmine Hill Gardens • Olympic Flame Celebration in Flowers. June 3 - 26. Jasmine Hill Gardens, Wetumpka. www.jasminehill.org Jule Collins Smith Museum • Face to Face: Artists Self Portraits from the Collection of Jackey and Curtis Finch Jr. Through August 7. Jule Collins Smith Museum, Auburn. www.jcsm.auburn. edu. Lee County Department of Human Resources Now recruiting foster/adoptive families. To learn more about fostering and adoption please call our office at 334-737-1100. Please join us in this endeavor to help our foster children. 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. Meditation Garden and Labyrinth Come and Find the Quiet Center... in the Meditation Garden and Labyrinth, provided as a community service by Village Christian Church, 700 East University Drive, (across from Auburn Early Ed.). 334-887-5111. Try the practice of walking meditation or simply sit and enjoy the sights and sounds. The garden and labyrinth are always open and guests are always welcome. Miracle League To volunteer or for more information, www.miraclefield.org or eamiracleleague@gmail.com. Montgomery Zoo www.montgomeryzoo.com. Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974. PGA Tour Tournament/Barbasol Championship July 11 - 17. RTJ Grand National. www.barbasolchampionship.com Pioneer Museum Pioneer Museum, Troy. www.pioneer-museum.org. Riverside Theatre • “Junie B. Jones the Musical”. June 9 - 26. • “Young Frankenstein”. June 9 - 25. Riverside Theatre, Columbus State University. www.theatre.columbusstate.edu/productions Springer Opera House “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”. July 8 - 24. Springer Opera House. www.springeroperahouse.org Sun Festival 4th Annual Sun Festival, July 23-30. Alexander City. Sun Festival Alexander City is a community development and tourism initiative designed to enhance the lifestyles in the Alexander City and Lake Martin areas. We are looking forward to a fun-filled, action-packed week of excitement for our entire community including art contest, pageant, music, battle of the bands and more. www. alexandercitychamber.com Therapeutic Foster Care Program Foster a Child’s Future Today - Become a Therapeutic Foster Parent! Certification classes are free. Please call Joanna Fisher Champagne at Lee County Youth Development Center’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program. (334) 749-2996, Ext. 311 - You can make an eternal difference in a child’s life!

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Virginia Samford Theatre • “Damn Yankees”. June 16 - July 3. Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham. www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org. XBAR Fitness For Youth For all fitness levels. Mondays 5:15 p.m. - 5:45 p.m. $65/6 weeks. Megan.Linge@gmail.com.

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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/. Auburn Mommy and Me Big Dog Running Co, Auburn. 10–11 a.m. Social time, story time, music/movement, arts & crafts. Ages 9 months–3 years. Free! 334-209-2580. Auburn MOPS 1st Wednesday of each month, September-May. 9–11:30 a.m. Trinity United Methodist Church, Opelika. Meetings open to moms with preschool children ages 5 years and under. $5 per meeting; childcare $5 per child. $25 yearly membership dues. Weekly playdates, monthly moms night out, resources, and more. www.facebook.com/ AuburnOpelikaMOPS; AUMOPS@yahoo.com. Breast Feeding class meets the second Saturday of each month from 10 a.m. to noon on EAMC’s third floor. Call 528-1260 to register. La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. @ Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, Airport Plaza, 323 Airport Road Suite E, Auburn. For more information call LLL of Auburn/Opelika, Leader, Josie Ettinger (h)334-257-3950 or (c)334-740-8780. Main Street Farmer’s Market June 14-October 25. Broad Street, Alexander City. 256329-9227. 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. Parent Educational Workshop - Autism 2nd Tuesday of each month, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika. Parent Support Group - Autism 1st Monday (unless national holiday), 9:00-11:00 a.m. Location varies so check www.leecountyautism.com for complete information. Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama offers 2nd Saturdays, group classes, and more. Contact Penny Messer at 334-444-6827. Email smoea@bellsouth.net. Website www.smoea.vpweb.com or find us on facebook. Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@insideyfc. com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com.

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Plus Lo-Fi Loungers, BPM, Jimi & The Firedogs, Andrew McCarter, Ashley Jackson & Sam Marsall

Giant Kid’s Zone Arts Show www.riverandblues.net

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. $15 per child, $5 each additional.

Support Groups

Caregiver Support Group Caring for a family member or friends can be rewarding, but it’s not easy. Whether you are the caregiver for your parents, spouse or a dependent child, this group is for you! Learn ways to cope with every day stresses of caring for someone you love. Gain tools and resources to help you on your journey. This program is supported by the Opelika Sportsplex, Lee-Russell Agency on Aging and HomeInstead Senior Care. This group is open to the public. Meets the last Monday of each month at 12:30 p.m. at Opelika Sportsplex AAC. Instructors are: Valeri White

(Sportsplex), Bridgette Sager (Home Instead Senior Care), Lisa Askew (Lee-Russell Council of Gov). 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

Montgomery Biscuits Baseball July 1-3, 14-18. www.biscuitsbaseball.com.

Please send your calendar events to Kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com! We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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Central Intelligence

Finding Dory MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: B+ Sexual Content: ALanguage: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A The MPAA has rated Finding Dory PG for mild thematic elements. Picking up where Finding Nemo left off, Marlin (voice of Albert Brooks), his son Nemo (voice of Hayden Rolence) and their good-butforgetful-friend Dory (voice of Ellen DeGeneres) are happily settled in the clown fishes’ coral reef. Then a discussion about aquatic animals migrating home suddenly reminds the blue tang fish that she once had a family. Eager not to let the memory slip away, Dory determines to search for her mother and father (voices of Diane Keaton and Eugene Levy). Although she usually doesn’t remember important things, Dory knows she will need someone to go with her so she can stay focused on her quest. Reluctantly the risk-adverse Marlin and the naïvely-optimistic Nemo agree to accompany her. With only a cloudy clue about a California location, the trio crosses the ocean. However, once within the shadow of their destination (which turns out to be an aquarium for injured and/or endangered marine life), Dory’s reckless enthusiasm, coupled with her memory lapses, soon separates the group. And that leaves the father and son desperately trying to find Dory, while she distractedly seeks the whereabouts of her parents. Both hijinks and peril ensue as the befuddled Dory evades predators, swims in and out of trouble, and befriends an octopus named Hank (voice of Ed O’Neill) who is on the run from the Institute’s staff. While the danger never seems too intense, the many times the tang fish gets lost and is left all alone may generate some emotional distress for young audience members – especially if any of them have ever had the misfortune of misplacing their caregivers. Yet in true Disney/Pixar style, this animation offers an amazing visual feast, along with a plot full of food for thought. Using Dory’s short term memory loss as a spring board, the script explores learning disorders and other types of challenges. While her friends and some strangers aren’t always as patient with her shortcomings as they could be, the feisty fish’s determination in the face of obstacles soon solicits their sympathy. Meanwhile, her disability becomes a motivation for her to find other hidden abilities. Her example is an inspiration to all, because everyone comes with faults and failings – including many of the other depicted characters. The trick is to learn how to have our strengths compensate for our weaknesses, while in the process remembering to show kindness and understanding to those who have imperfections different from our own. With a minimum of content issues and plenty of creative humor, this powerful message, plus themes of teamwork and the importance of friends and family, are sure to make Finding Dory unforgettable.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: C Violence: CSexual Content: BLanguage: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Central Intelligence PG-13 for crude and suggestive humor, some nudity, action violence and brief strong language. Dwayne Johnson is known for his philanthropic work with young people and that theme is a strong component in Central Intelligence. We meet Johnson’s character, Robbie Weirdicht, when he is an obese, bullied high school senior. Inexplicably, he’s enjoying a long shower and dancing up a storm in the locker room while the final assembly of the year is taking place. That’s when a small gang of kids find and drag him, literally butt naked (his rear is seen), into the center of the gym. The only classmate that comes to his rescue is Calvin (Kevin Hart), the coolest, can-do-anything guy in the school. Fast forward twenty years and Calvin has married his high school sweetheart (Danielle Nicolet) and works as an accountant. He’s just been rejected for a promotion, which has left him feeling disenchanted with his life. His anxiety is even more heightened when the man who used to be Robbie contacts him through Facebook and convinces him they should meet. Calvin quickly discovers that a different name (he now goes by Bob Stone) is not all that has change about his former acquaintance. He has also morphed into… well… Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. Yet for all his newfound assurance, bulging muscles and ability to take down thugs (which he soon demonstrates), Stone still retains much of his former persona -- evidenced by his black fanny pack, rainbow enhanced unicorn t-shirt and quirky personality. After a few drinks the towering, charismatic character talks Calvin into helping him sort out some financial issues… and that’s when the adventure begins. Before he knows what’s happening, Calvin finds himself in a violent situation and isn’t sure if he should be joining the tough guy and accepting his offer of protection, or assisting the CIA agents who are pursuing Stone. Built to showcase the comedic talents of Hart and Johnson, the action plot is merely a framework that strings together a myriad of comedic setups. Still the fun fades after the first half-hour when we begin wanting more story to go with the snickers. Perhaps the greatest disappointment is the amount of violence that obscures a potentially powerful lesson about self-confidence. As well, salty language is peppered throughout the film, including a single sexual expletive, many scatological slangs and crude anatomical terms.

What Parents need to know about Central Intelligence...

Violence: Many scenes depict the use of guns and weapons, along with handto-hand confrontations. Most of these scenes are free of detailed violence and blood effects, except for a repeated depiction of a man in a blood-covered glass elevator and a dismembered body part. A character is tortured -- we later see a severely dislocated finger. Teenagers and adults exhibit bullying behavior. In a high school setting a group of teens carry a naked male student from the shower room into a crowded gymnasium and throw him on the floor. A pickedon character punches another. Sexual Content: Male buttock nudity is seen in a non-sexual context. A man takes his clothes off at a high school reunion to reveal his physical transformation from an obese teen into a muscular adult -- we see him from the waist up with brief buttock nudity. Sexual innuendo is heard. Characters kiss. Language: The script includes one use of the sexual expletive in a non-sexual context along with frequent use of scatological slang, crude anatomical terms, some sexual innuendo and vulgar expressions. Alcohol / Drug Use: A hero character tries to convince another character to rapidly drink shots in a bar.

What Parents need to know about Finding Dory...

Violence: A character constantly forgets things and gets lost, which makes her feel frightened and alone. Other characters occasionally become impatient with her memory problem. Characters are frequently in mildly perilous situations, which include being captured and trapped, touched by unfriendly hands and chased by predators. Vehicles are driven recklessly and a truck is destroyed. A cunning character escapes from his exhibit and uses creative measures to avoid being caught. Some mild bullying is depicted. Slapstick antics are plentiful. Characters grieve over the loss of loved ones. Sexual Content: The script contains some mild sexual innuendo and infrequent bathroom humor. A slang word for a body part is used. Language: Some mild name-calling occurs. Alcohol / Drug Use: None noted. Other: Several characters have handicaps or impaired abilities that present challenges for them. Auburn Opelika Parents I July 2016