Auburn Opelika Parents May19

May2019

Volume 10 Number 3

Columns

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Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LMSW

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Kids Health Watch

sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Common Sense Media How colleges use your child’s social media feed.

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Got a Graduate?

Find eight great gift ideas your high school graduate is sure to love.

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Get This!

Gerry Paige Smith

22 Parenting, Media & Everything in Between

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Common Sense Media

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A Page in a Book Gerry Paige Smith

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Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Avoid the Summer Slide

Great activities to keep their brains sharp all summer long.

Summer Fun Guide

Activities abound in Lee County to keep your kids learning, while having tons of fun.

On The Cover Ava Lawrence (middle) is 11 years old and the daughter of Ouida and John Lawrence. She is pictured with her sisters, Virginia (12), and Abby (10.) Ava was diagnosed with leukemia in the summer of 2017. She has had many ups and downs on her journey to wellness, but has kept a smile on her face and has inspired others with her faith and overflowing love. Her family is thankful for the steadfast prayers and support of their innumerable friends, faithful communities, and special organizations who have walked with them along the way. Smile A Mile (SAM) is one such organization that has partnered with the Lawrences. Ava and her sisters will be serving lemonade June 7-9 to raise awareness of SAM’s mission to provide hope, healing, and love for the whole family during the childhood cancer journey.

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Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

Departments 6

Bits and Pieces 9

Teacher of the Month 10

School Bits 40

Family Calendar 48

Movie Reviews www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Publisher’sNote Another school year is almost finished and a new summer is right around the corner! Our family is looking forward to a slowdown in our hectic morning routines.

The days of waking up before the sun and rushing around to find matching socks and school lanyards is almost behind us. The mornings ruled by the race to beat the tardy bell will soon be replaced with the kids getting extra hours of sleep and a leisure morning in pajamas. Oh, how I love summer time! It’s a time to rest, recharge and just take in the days off from a busy school year. With long summer days ahead of us, plan some activities that not only celebrate summer, but also encourage kids’ learning throughout the days away from the classroom.

In the feature article, Avoid the Summer Slide: Schedule Local Activities, there are some great ideas to not only fill the days with fun, but to continue their learning.

For planning, start with the year-round commitments and get those nailed down on your summer calendar. Does your child play ball on a travel team? How about dance classes with a competitive company? Summer is a time to keep the training consistent, if not step it up a notch, and enroll in an intensive week or two. This continuation of learning and improving on athletic skills through the summer months will not only work toward goals, but can advance them before new extracurricular classes begin in the fall. Maybe this is the summer to consider summer school. Some students benefit from taking a course in the summer to help with retaining new subject matter or even help with next school year’s load. For us, my oldest took her driver’s education class in a week during last summer, instead of an every day class during the school semester. This not only freed up her school year for another class option, but she enjoyed the condensed version of learning. Some courses are being taught online too. This might be another great summer learning option.

Don’t forget to let your kids try new things this summer. Programs in summer have a smaller time commitment and are designed to be less intimidating. Your child can feel more comfortable jumping in with both feet, instead of just dipping in their toes. A quick week in an art class, followed by a short swimming lesson session and a week at an overnight, horseback camp can be just enough to see if they are ready to pursue that interest more during the school year. To start the planning, sit down with your family and look through this year’s Summer Fun Guide. Pick a few programs to sign up for, and don’t forget to plan some local outings where you can explore all that Auburn and Opelika has to offer. A picnic at the park, a day trip to a museum or an ice cream stroll around downtown can be a great family day during the warm days of summer.

Summer is almost here! Let the kids explore new interests and enjoy summer adventures. From one parent to another, have a great summer 2019!

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 Rian Anglin, MD Mark Gregston Christina Katz Sonia Martin, LMSW Pam Molnar Dave Ramsey Gerry Paige Smith Cover Photography Lauren Beesley Photography www.lbeesleyphoto.com

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

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com

Kendra

kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

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Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 475 Bennington Ct, Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 209-0552 and fax is (334) 826-7303.

Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2019 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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TherapeuticParenting

by Sonia Martin, LMSW

Explosive and Highly Frustrated Kids Few things are as confounding in the parenting sphere as having an explosive child. It’s that gut wrenching (and absolutely infuriating) feeling of watching your precious little one – in the blink of an eye – transform into an angry, unreachable, hurting little human. It’s bewildering to parents everywhere how a simple request of, “Please go bring down your dirty laundry” or “Pass the potatoes” at the dinner table can so quickly and violently morph into a scene from Rocky. Anger, aggression, violence or explosive tendencies can be one of the toughest roads to navigate.

So, what do you do?

Well, a few thoughts. One, in the hard moments be aware of your own self. In our own humanity, it is incredibly easy to rise up and meet their frustration. You are gonna yell at me? Oh, let’s go. It’s on now. If I may point out, little good can come from two angry people.

You simply cannot jump on the angry roller coaster with your child. Someone has to stay behind with two feet on the ground, and operate the controls, less complete chaos ensue.

If your goal is to diffuse a situation, it simply has to start with the parent. Your child, in that moment of rage, has lost all capacity to self-regulate. You have to be the one remaining calm. It’s a bit like the instructions

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2019

from every flight attendant – first affix your own life vest or oxygen mask before helping your child. Oddly enough, the same concept applies here. So how do you do that? Well, sometimes it is best to just walk away. Counter-intuitive I know, but hear me on this. In those moments where your child has completely flipped their lid, they simply cannot hear you. They cannot process, or learn, or respond appropriately, much less demonstrate any insight into their behavior. Your presence and words telling them to “calm down” or “knock it off” can often act as gasoline on the fire. So take your gas can, and if your child is safe, walk away. Once your child has calmed down, offer a snack and peaceably sit down together and discuss the issue in a spirit of partnering with your child – all the while modeling regulation and self-control.

Secondarily, I would encourage parents to keep their eye focused on the issue at hand. What was the catalyst for the meltdown? What is the child really mad about?

Remember that kids don’t have words, they have behaviors, so understanding the root cause of the behavior is going to automatically work toward getting that train back on track. Too often we can get trapped in this cycle of punishment for the fit, rather than

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finding out the reason for the fit. Your punishment may indeed be effective in the short term, but if your goal is to eventually see an end to the poor behavior, then understanding your child’s stressor and working with them on that is certain to bring about true, authentic, sustainable change. This goes together with my next suggestion.

Third, look for patterns. Are you experiencing the same meltdown at the same time of day? Are you watching their volcano erupt over the same issue time and time again? If so, take a minute and partner with your child to problem solve together. If there is any parenting strategy that works well for any age, it is making your child feel heard, giving them voice.

Now I am the first one to admit all of that sounds easy enough, but is much harder to do. True. I admit it. But it’s like that old saying – “If you keep doing what you’re doing, you’re gonna keep getting what you’re getting”. Let’s do something different.

Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior, and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to help mitigate negative behaviors. She travels the state speaking at various conferences on behavior and parenting and is a therapist for Kids To Love Foundation.

Sonia is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of whom were internationally adopted, and is also a foster parent.

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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LEMONADE FOR S.A.M. CALLING ALL KIDS! WE WANT YOU TO HOST A LEMONADE STAND

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REGISTER

PICK UP KIT

GIVE BACK

WIN PRIZES!

JUNE 7-9 Proceeds will benefit Smile-A-Mile’s mission to provide hope, healing and love during the childhood cancer journey.

SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS

5 www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents REGISTER AT CROWDRISE.COM/LEMONADEFORSAM

Summer Reading Kick Off Extravaganza!

May 29 at the Opelika Public Library. Before or after Noon Tunes, join Cooper Library Staff in kicking off the 2019 Summer Reading Program. We’ll have hot dogs and other snacks for you to enjoy as you register for a summer of fun! 11:00 a.m.2:00 p.m. library@opelika-al.gov

Mother’s Day at The Montgomery Zoo

Celebrate Mother's Day, Sunday, May 12, at the Montgomery Zoo! All moms receive FREE admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. www.montgomeryzoo.com

27th Annual Fishing Rodeo

Cast into summer with the 27th Annual Fishing Rodeo sponsored by Evans Realty and Auburn Parks and Rec! Join us at the lake at Auburn Technology Park South on Saturday, May 18 from 7 – 11 a.m. The first 150 children will receive a FREE rod and reel courtesy of Evans Realty and Auburn Parks and Recreation will supply the bait. Door prizes will be given out to lucky participants and prizes will be awarded to the biggest fish caught in each age category. We will also give out an award for the most fish caught overall. This event is a great chance to bring kids and their parents together with America’s favorite pastime...FISHING! The cost is $5 per child and can be paid at the event in the form of cash or check. Checks can be made payable to COA. There is a limit of five fish per child and parents must stay with their child at all times.

Lemonade for S.A.M. Fundraiser

June 7-9: Lemonade for S.A.M Fundraiser Benefiting Camp Smile-A-Mile. Calling all kids! We want you to host a lemonade stand. Proceeds will benefit Smile-A-Mile ‘s mission to provide hope, healing and love during the childhood cancer journey.

How to help…register your stand online, crowdrise.com/ lemonadeforsam - click join, create an account, select create your own team, input your stand’s name and goal, edit the “story” to add when and where your stand will be. Pick up your kit from AllState Prewett Insurance Group in Olgetree Village. Included in your starter kit: souvenir Smile-A-Mile cups, flyers, yard sign and money envelope. You set your price! Suggestions: $1 per cup or donation only, $5 for a souvenir cup Remember to tell your customers that the money raised supports Smile-A-Mile. Have fun and win prizes! Prizes will be given to Most Creative Stand and Most Raised! Contact Tonya Prewett, Tonya@smileamile.com

Opelika Songwriters Festival Sponsored

by The Sound Wall

Kick back and relax this Memorial Day weekend, May 24-26, with the inaugural Opelika Songwriter's Festival. Enjoy live musical performances by local, regional, and national songwriters in historic downtown Opelika.

The festival will feature 30 songwriters from across the US & Canada offering over 70 performances throughout Historic Downtown Opelika. 30 singer-songwriters made up of local to internationally touring songwriters including, Grammy Award Winning Songwriter Dan Navarro, Kate Campbell, Harpeth Rising, Martha’s Trouble and many more. All proceeds will benefit the Arts Association of East Alabama. www.opelikasongwritersfestival.com

Science on Saturday: Turtle Talk with Stan Arrington

Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. Did you know that Alabama is the state with the most turtles in the whole United States? Turtles can be found all over Alabama with our perfect habitat and diverse geology. Learn all about these fascinating reptiles on May 19 in a 1-hour program. Meet a lot of our native turtles and a few nonnative turtles and tortoises. Children’s activities will be available. Admission is $4 for members and $5 for non-members. Children 3 and under are free. 10 a.m. www.preserve.auburn.edu Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2019

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Summer Swing Concerts in the Park

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

Scout Appreciation Day at the Atlanta Zoo

Attention all Girl Scouts and Boy Scouts! Get in touch with your WILD side and join us on Migratory Bird Day on May 11 to celebrate YOU! Enjoy discounted admission to Zoo Atlanta, engaging on-grounds activities, and up-close animal encounters! Have fun with your troop as you explore the outdoors and connect to wildlife. Each Scout will receive a complimentary Zoo patch to commemorate the day. www.zooatlanta.com

Celebrating George Washington Carver: Three Days of Festivities

Thursday, May 2, Dr. Carver’s love of the arts will be explored during the Image Reception with his former students and acquaintances. Friday, May 3rd, a special session is planned, with a special consultant, for the public and students to familiarize themselves with aspects of re purposing-recycling.

Friday, May 4, George Washington Carver Commemorative Festival will be held in Downtown Tuskegee with a parade at 10 AM and all-day festival including music, arts, crafts and other multi-generational activities. 334-727-7798. www.carverfestival.org

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Pediatric Associates of Auburn

Water Safety Update Spring is here, temperatures are on the rise, and it’s time to go swimming. The American Academy of Pediatrics recently updated its water safety tips just in time for the swimming season. I’ll highlight a few here but be sure to explore the topic more on www.healthychildren.org.

Did you know that after birth defects, drowning is the number one cause of death in children age 1-4 years old? And the most frequent place these drownings occur is in home swimming pools.

Here’s how to stay safe: 1) Pool fencesChildren are attracted to the pool. “They can slip out a door, climb out a window or even crawl through a doggy door to access the pool.” Not all states have laws requiring pool fences and there is no national pool fence law. However, in Alabama the Law does require a 4-foot-high fence with self-closing locking mechanism. The fence should not have footholds that make it easy to be climbed and the slats in the fence should not be

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2019

wider than 4 inches apart. The AAP also recommends that the fence completely surround the pool, “4 feet, 4 sides” separating it from the house and the rest of the yard.

2) Alarms- “Drowning is silent. Alarms break that silence”. If you have a home swimming pool, consider installing a pool alarm that detects waves on the water surface. This can help alert others if someone falls in the pool.

Also consider having an alarm on the pool fence gate and house doors.

3) Assign a “water watcher” or an adult who’s only job is to watch the children in the water. This is especially important during a party or busy event.

4) Life jackets- Buy the kind approved by the US coast guard and wear them.

5) Swim lessons- Sign kids up for swim lessons from a professional teacher.

6) CPR training- This is really a great idea for anyone who helps take care of kids, but is especially important for parents and pool owners.

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7) CHECK THE WATER FIRST- If a child is missing, check the pool first. It only takes a minute for a child to slip away and quick action can save a life.

A few more thoughts: Sunscreen is recommended for children age 6 months and older, teens, and adults. The sunscreen should have a SPF rating of at least 15 with broad spectrum coverage--UVA and UVB ray coverage. Use water-resistant sunscreen and re-apply every two hours.

In summary, be safe around the pool, always wear sunscreen and have a fun time. Swimming is a great way to exercise and stay cool during the hot summer months.

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics“Pool dangers and drowning prevention-When it’s not swimming time” and “Sun Safety tips”

Dr. Ellen Royal attended the University of South Alabama College of Medicine for her medical degree and graduated in 1994. She returned to Alabama the summer of 1998 to join the pediatric practice of Dr. Richard M. Freeman. Dr. Royal is a member of the Lee County Medical Society, Medical Association of the State of Alabama, American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. She is board certified in Pediatrics. Dr. Royal is married to Dr. Kevin Royal who practices Internal Medicine in Opelika and they have three children.

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Laura Sellers Morris Avenue Intermediate School

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I am tremendously honored and humbled to be chosen as the Teacher of the Month!

I spend my days with some of the brightest fifth graders in town at Morris Avenue Intermediate School in Opelika. This is my fifth year teaching and my fourth year in Opelika.

Before I began teaching at Morris Avenue, I taught sixth grade for one year in Montgomery, but I jumped at the opportunity to be closer to home in Opelika. I am originally from Mobile, Alabama, but my husband, daughter, and I now call Opelika home.

I graduated from Auburn University in 2011 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Human Development and Family Studies and then earned my Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Auburn University at Montgomery.

I am fortunate to work for an incredible school system that supports its students and teachers in all that we do. We are provided a multitude of opportunities to learn and grow together, and we are consistently challenged to achieve our full potential. Morris Avenue is an outstanding workplace because our children strive not only to be great students, but people of character as well. My students never cease to amaze me in terms of their work ethic and their ambition. They encourage one another and legitimately make coming to school a joy each day. I am also a part of an exceptional team with a principal who wholeheartedly supports his staff.

Teaching is an incredibly rewarding calling that challenges me daily to be flexible, accepting, forgiving, and motivated. I absolutely love spending my days with such bright minds, and I am extremely thankful to be able to do so.

Laura Sellers

I am delighted that Laura M. Sellers was selected as The Teacher of the Month. She has served at Morris Avenue in the capacity of 5th grade teacher for the past four years. Mrs. Seller’s vision for her students is for them to be equipped with the knowledge and skills to be successful in a rapidly changing society. She implements effective instructional strategies to prepare her students for the future.

She believes it’s imperative to attend job embedded professional development to skillfully meet the educational needs of all students. Mrs. Sellers emphasizes the importance of teaching academic standards to fidelity so students will gain the depth of knowledge essential for a complete understanding of the content.

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Nino Mason, Principal of Morris Avenue Intermediate School

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Happy 20th, Ogletree!

Autauga County Schools

Thanks to everyone who came out to celebrate Ogletree Elementary’s 20th anniversary!

AEEC Student Interviews Jimmy Carter at His Home

AEEC 2nd Grader Charlee Hussey chose Jimmy Carter for her Famous Americans project. She wrote to the 39th President, who in turn invited her to his home in Plains, Ga. What an awesome experience to interview him in person!

Thank you Charlee for representing AEEC and ACS so well.

We are proud of you! “Always tell the truth and care about your fellow human beings. Do what is best for others."

- J. Carter

AHS Students Win Alabama Launchpad Competition

Finance students from Auburn High School competed in Tiger Cage, Jr. which was held in conjunction with the Auburn Regional Alabama Launchpad Finale! #Borbet Alabama presented the Auburn High School Finance Program with a $500 check to be used for enriching business classes at AHS. Caleb Kantor, Braxton Longino and Kennedy Clair Masic (pictured) were the winners of the competition, with their company, Send it Mail, which is a mailbox app that has a unique alert and monitoring system for the consumer. Winners also received a $500 scholarship to Auburn University. Pictured are winners, Send It Mail - (L to R): Caleb Kantor, Kennedy Claire Masic and Braxton Longino.

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Auburn City Schools are Fueling Up

During the recent National School Breakfast Week, the #NSBW19 theme was “Start Your Engines With School Breakfast,” which was designed to show parents, students, and school officials the benefits of fueling up for the day with a healthy school breakfast.

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Morris Avenue Intermediate Holds Evening of Science

Parents and students at Morris Avenue Intermediate School enjoyed an adventurous evening full of science! Learners of all ages constructed mazes with magnetism, participated in challenges involving potential and kinetic energy, and experimented with chemical changes. Students loved showing their families how much they are learning in class.

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Wrights Mill Road Inventors

Get ready “Shark Tank” - WMR has some amazing inventors. Great job EAGLES on coming up with creative & useful invention prototypes.

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OHS Teacher Named Alabama History Teacher of the Year

Congratulations to Mr. Don Shirley of Opelika High School for being named the Alabama American History Teacher of the Year by the Alabama Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution!

Creekside ES Holds Living History Museum

A few second grade classes opened their doors as living history museums recently. It was a fun day learning about many important people in history.

T r i n i T y

D i s T i n c T i v e s

Comprehensive Trinity offers a complete K – 12 classical, Christian education, including many enriching activities such as sports, band, choral ensemble, performing arts, and various student organizations.

A Classical and Christian Academy 745-2464

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www.tcsopelika.org

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Celebrating Family Heritage at St. Michael Catholic PreK

Autauga County Schools Character Counts at Lee-Scott Academy

So proud of the lower school students who were recognized as the Character Counts Students of the Week for exhibiting the attributes of the word of the week: Forgiveness! Way to go, Warriors!

The PK 4 students shared their family heritage as part of Mrs. Brown's social studies class. They wore traditional clothes, brought in photos and treats, and made posters about their families.

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Trinity Basketball Team Helps with Tornado Clean-up Thank you, Trinity Boys’ Basketball for serving others by helping with tornado clean-up in the Beauregard area!

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Mt. Everest Climber Speaks to Chambers Academy Students

On Wednesday, March 20th, students at Chambers Academy in grades 4-12 gathered for a special assembly to hear a presentation from Mr. Bud Allen, a nearby Columbus, GA resident who shared his stories about mountain climbing adventures from across the world. Students in Dr. Debra Jackson’s English classes had just finished reading the novel Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer. The story details the author's experience at the 1996 Mount Everest disaster, in which eight climbers were killed and several others were stranded by a rogue storm.

Mr. Allen has attempted three separate climbs on Mount Everest in Nepal. His first attempt ended with altitude sickness keeping him from reaching the summit. His second attempt ended with dangerous weather preventing him from reaching the summit. His last attempt ended with his oxygen tank flat lining within just four hours of the summit forcing him to rappel off the mountain 1,500 feet in the dark to safety at base camp IV. Mr. Allen showed students equipment he had used on his expeditions as well as a guided Powerpoint made of pictures from his journeys on Everest. He encouraged the students to climb their mountains no matter how many times they might fail. He himself is going back to attempt another climb to reach the summit on Everest on April 23rd in just a few weeks. He noted he will fly to the village of Lukla in Nepal where he will begin the ten day hike to reach the base of Everest for his next ascent challenge. Allen emphasized the danger in these adventures to Everest noting a climber from his party was killed on two of his expeditions.

Bud also detailed to students that he had climbed multiple peaks across the world on several continents. He is known to have assisted the oldest American, Bill Burke at age 73 to have reached the summit of Everest.

Bud has climbed the highest mountain on five continents including Elbrus (in Russia at 18,510 feet), Kilimanjaro (in Africa at 19,340 feet), Mt. Vinson in Antarctica (at 16,050 feet), and Denali in Alaska (at 20,320 feet). He also made a solo ascent of the highest mountain in the world outside of the Himalayas, Aconcagua (at 22,841 feet), in the South American Andes.

Students enjoyed more than an hour with Mr. Allen peppering him with questions from his Lessons from the Mountains. In his everyday life Bud is a commercial real estate developer with over 30 years in the business. He has used his practical talents as a Christian working with Climbers for Christ to use his talents to share his testimony.

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Autauga County Schools

Cary Woods Class Spotlight

Cary Woods Elementary class spotlight is on Mrs. McHugh. Mrs. McHugh earned both her Bachelor’s and Master’s Degrees in Elementary Education from Auburn University. She began her teaching career fourteen years ago. Lucky for us, all of those years have been spent here at Cary Woods. Mrs. McHugh has taught first and second grade and is currently teaching kindergarten. When enrolling at Auburn, Mrs. McHugh planned to pursue a career in veterinary medicine. She experienced a tug on her heart toward teaching and changed her major to education. According to Mrs. McHugh, “As teachers, we are given the opportunity and honor to be a difference-maker in the lives of our students and their families. The lifelong relationships I form with my students inspire me and bring tremendous joy and love to my life.” Cary Woods is thrilled to have a teacher like Mrs. McHugh who values and cherishes the role she plays in the life of her students academically, socially, and emotionally.

What Mrs. McHugh’s students are saying: Mrs. McHugh’s kindergartners love being in her class. One student shared he “loves having Oreo for a class pet.” The students enjoy having the chance to earn special rewards – lunch in the loft or courtyard or even petting the class pet. Oreo is one special and well-loved bunny. Another student adores their Friday fun center rotations – Lincoln logs, computer, iPads, kinetic sand, and Play doh. Mrs. McHugh’s explorers are loving their time in Kindergarten.

What Mrs. McHugh’s colleagues are saying: Mrs. McHugh is a blessing to her students and to the teachers and staff at Cary Woods. She always brings joy to everyone around her. According to one co-worker, “Mrs. McHugh makes sure her kids are taken care of academically and emotionally.” Mrs. McHugh encourages her students to set goals for themselves and reach them through creative and engaging activities. Cary Woods is lucky to have a teacher like Mrs. McHugh who is making a difference in the lives of our explorers.

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27th Annual Fishing Rodeo SPONSORED BY EVANS REALTY

SAT. May 18 • 7–11 a.m. • Auburn Technology Park South th

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DOOR PRIZES, AWARDS for biggest fish and most fish caught in

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$5 PER CHILD cash or check Checks made out to COA. There is a limit of five fish per child. Parents must stay with their child at all times

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Adjective Parade at Creekside Elementary

27th Annual Fishing Rodeo sponsored by Evans Realty and hosted by Auburn Parks and Recreation

An adjective describes a noun like a great big smile or a huge ugly frown. A glowing cheesy moon, a sizzling summer sun, a giant juicy burger on a fresh fluffy bun. Third grade students put on an adjective parade to show off some amazing adjectives!

Lee-Scott Students Take Virtual Field Trip

Mrs. Jones’ fifth graders took virtual field trips using viewers to learn about the California gold rush! She led them on a trip through history with narrative and informational text.

The first 175 children receive a

FREE rod and reel courtesy of Evans Realty

FOR MORE INFORMATION visit auburnalabama.org/parks/programs/ fishing-rodeo/ or email Gabby Filgo at gfilgo@auburnalabama.org

City Council Honors AHS Ladies’ Basketball

The Auburn City Council honored the 2018-2019 Auburn High School Ladies’ Basketball team for an amazing season that took the Lady Tigers to their first ever Final Four in program history! #ACS #Auburn #Community #CelebrateAuburn #AHSAA #PrepHoops Here are just some of the highlights from their season: • Overall 24-5 record for the season • Fourth repeat area championship • First ever Final Four appearance • Only one regular season InState loss • Undefeated at home • Three All-Area selections (Jada Askew, Shaniya Holley and Olivia Porter) • Two All-Region Selections (Shaniya Holley and Olivia Porter) • One Finals first team selection (Olivia Porter) • One second team All-State (Olivia Porter) • OA News Head Coach of the year (Courtney Pritchett) • OA News players of the year (Olivia Porter and Casey Core) 15

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Autauga County Schools Lee-Scott Cheer Instructor Selected as

Trinity Students Visit Biblical History Museum Trinity third graders toured the Biblical History Museum recently!

UCA Instructor 2019

Congratulations to senior Jordan Huguley who was chosen to be a UCA instructor 2019! She will teach at cheer camps for high school and junior high cheer teams all over the Southeast at various college campuses this summer. Jordan tried out to be an instructor at Lee-Scott's cheer camp this past summer and was one of fifteen chosen statewide as an instructor. Way to go, Jordan!

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AHS Honor Society Induction

The National Honor Society (NHS) Induction Ceremony for the Sigma Lambda Chi Chapter at Auburn High School was held with 219 students being inducted! In addition to excelling in the classroom, these students exemplify the four principles of the NHS through scholarship (commitment to learning), leadership, service and character.

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Chambers Academy BETA Club Participates in Alabama Convention

On March 21st and 22nd, student representatives from the Chambers Academy BETA Club travelled to Birmingham to participate in Alabama’s annual Senior High School BETA Club Convention. CA’s BETA Club Sponsor Ms. Emily Milford led twelve 10-12th grade students to attend the BETA Convention held at the BJCC in Birmingham. The nominated students were selected for their academic achievement over the course of the current school year.

While attending the conference, the students attended three general sessions where state officers gave speeches, and state elections were held for the upcoming year. Performances were also judged in several areas of competition such as show choir, performing arts, and solo performances. They heard from the State Sponsor, as well as the National Sponsor for Beta Club. Students attending the conference are also eligible to participate in academic competitions to earn honors for their school.

CA is pleased to announce that the school’s BETA Club chapter has earned our school an award for the second consecutive year being recognized as a “National Beta Club School of Distinction.” The award was earned for the community service, academics and leadership demonstrated by members of the Chambers Academy BETA Club. Pictured in the front row are CA Counselor Emily Milford, Shelby White (Sr), Mary Grayson Henderson (Sr), and Abby Morgan (Soph). Standing in the rear from left to right are: Cade Tarver (10th), Dean Sheffield (10th), Kendall Talbot (10th), Mikayla Martin (Sr), Kinsley Gregory (11th), Maci Harmon (11th), Bailey Birditt (12th), Jake Waldrop (11th) and Connor Gregory (11th).

OHS Senior Signs Football Scholarship

Congratulations to OHS Senior Tyrell Davis on signing a football scholarship to Huntingdon College. Joining Davis and his family for the signing were his mother Jana Battle (pictured seated left), his father Terrance Davis (pictured seated right), Coach Erik Speakman-OHS Head Football Coach, and Coach Mike Pugh-OHS Athletic Director.

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Autauga County Schools

AJHS and AHS Science Olympiad Teams Crowned State Champs!

The Auburn Junior High School AND Auburn High School Science Olympiad teams earned the State Championship in the middle school and high school classifications at Auburn University and will now be headed to Nationals to compete on Cornell University's campus (May 31-June 1)!

Chambers Academy Students Attend Show at ASF

Chambers Academy instructor Dr. Valery Jackson took the junior and senior English classes on a field trip to Montgomery on Wednesday, April 3rd to see the performance of “Romeo & Juliet� at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival. The two-hour show portrayed Romeo from the Montague family and Juliet from the Capulet family as two star-crossed lovers whose families were separated by a long standing feud in a mid-20th century American town.

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Lee-Scott Students Learn How to Give Injections

Mrs. Parker's classes learned how to give intramuscular and intradermal injections, pictured, left.

Please send school news to: Kendra@ auburnopelika parents.com.

Trinity tenth grade anatomy students, photo, right, receive instruction in CPR!

Opelika High Robotics Team Advances to Championship Competition

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Trinity Students Learn CPR

Congratulations to Opelika's Greatest Robotics Engineers (O.G.R.E.) for winning the 2019 FIRST Robotics Rocket City Regional Competition in Huntsville and advancing to the FIRST Robotics Championship Competition in Houston, TX.

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• Riding - English, Western, and Jumping • Swimming • Heated Pool • Ropes Course • Climbing Tower • Outdoor Nature Skills • Sports • Soccer • Basketball

ward-winning, a n a n o t u o s is Don’t m p for your m ca d re te n ce ts Chri mmer! daughter this Su On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama

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• Beach Volleyball • Tennis • Canoeing • Golf • Archery • Gymnastics • Cheerleading • Dance • Chorus • Drama • Arts & Crafts • CIT Program • Campfires every night • Optional trips & more!

REGISTER ONLINE TODAY! Choose from 1- and 2-week Sessions and Mother-Daughter Weekends!

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Trinity Students PerformAutauga County Schools Preventing Contraction Surgery Congratulations to Trinity Christian School first graders on Distracted Driving successful completion of Contraction Surgery! at OHS

Opelika High School was honored to have Mike Lutzenkirchen of the Lutzie 43 Foundation speak to students about the 43 Key Seconds Initiative and the steps to take to avoid distracted driving.

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Black Light Party Held for Creekside Good Behavior

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Students at Creekside Elementary who earned their way to the 3rd nine weeks behavior celebration enjoyed a black light party recently.

Preparing Your Child For Success Our children enjoy a curriculum focusing on language development that includes the study of math, science, social studies, phonics, sign language, art, music, self-help skills, emotional growth and character.

Ages 6 weeks to 12 years.

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Video Security Healthy Meals Character Education Summer Camp Low Child:Teacher Ratios Growing Room Auburn 334-501-2044 644 North Dean Road Auburn, AL 36830 Growing Room Opelika 334-748-9020 1755 Thomason Drive Opelika, AL 36801

www.growingroomusa.com

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Invitation to Dance

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Whether it’s a social experience, a creative performance or an individual expression of joy, dance offers healthy benefits for people of every age. While they are young and uninhibited, children are especially open to the physical self-expression of dance. Encouraging dance and interactive movement in children offers developmental benefits that go beyond physical coordination and health. Combining movement with the sensory inputs of sound and light can also teach children rhythm, counting, and listening skills. The following resources feature prompts that invite dance with playtime, adding movement and music into the mix.

by Gerry Paige Smith

BeatBo Learning Lights Dance Mat

Dance and Groove Rockit

Rewarding kids with danceable beats and light-up activities, the BeatBo Learning Lights Dance Mat is easily activated with just a bump or press from little hands and feet. The BeatBo figure gets the action started, directing little ones to try out specialized sections of the mat. Divided by color, each section features learning prompts for the alphabet, numbers, shapes and dance moves. Gross motor skills get a healthy workout as children crawl, walk and dance on the mat. Fostering thinking and problemsolving skills, music, lights, and phrases also help stimulate important the senses. Colorful and charismatic, BeatBo combines physical development with learning fun through this responsive play space.

Interactive and intuitive, Dance & Groove Rockit features a host of engaging activities that keep growing kids engaged and learning through play. Boasting a light-up face and motorized ears, Rockit has a belly-full of hands-on play with a numbers roller, ABC toggle switch, and a sliding door that teaches different shapes in English and Spanish. And the Glow ball offers its own features when activated, singing songs about colors, friendship, and best of all - movement! Rockit’s ability to repeat what kids say in three super silly voices adds a hilarious personal touch to the interactive play experience. Touching, listening, learning and movement all come together for developmental benefit when kids make friends with the Dance and Groove Rockit.

(Fisher Price)

(Fisher Price)

Learn and Groove Musical Mat

Let’s Dance Elmo (Sesame Street)

Getting kids to move is a snap when Sesame Street’s Elmo is calling the dance. Mimicking his signature moves, Let’s Dance Elmo swings his arms, tilts his head, and shakes his hips while prompting kids to join in.

With three buttons on Elmo’s headphones, kids can activate different musical modes featuring colors, animals, and songs. Encouraging children to follow his lead, Elmo’s heart lights up to match the color songs and to keep the beat as he moves.

Elmo’s headphones also act as a handle so kids can take the Sesame Street dance party wherever they want to go. Faithful to his cheery persona, Let’s Dance Elmo’s familiar voice is ideal for encouraging all the right moves!

(LeapFrog)

With four feet of surface to explore, the LeapFrog Learn and Groove Musical Mat is the perfect jumping off point for physical learning play. Kids can discover the sounds of different musical instruments, create their own music, or explore beats and tempo with over 50 songs and phrases.

Animal friends join the journey as children learn numbers or interactive clapping. There are also audio instructions that guide players through movements and sequences that build their coordination and thinking. Part dance, part discovery and all kinds of awesome, this super-size play mat is a giant leap forward for the littlest learners.

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

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How Colleges Use Kids’ Social Media Feeds

use on your other public social media, there’s a record of your rants and hostile posts, and it could come up when the school Googles you. You can’t go back in time and revise what you wrote. So make sure that the primary account you want the college to see is clean. And if you feel like sounding off in a public forum, make your posts constructive and cordial.

Hey, parents of college-bound kids: Share this with your son or daughter as soon as possible.

Will the weird stuff I like on other people’s social media reflect negatively on me?

Probably not -- unless it’s illegal, extremely antisocial, or disturbing and it makes up the bulk of your feed.

What’s the easiest thing you can do to impress prospective schools? It’s not your GPA. It’s not the debate team. It’s your Instagram – and your Twitter, Snapchat, YouTube, and any other social media feeds that colleges can see. And yes, they’re looking. Get answers to the most important questions about what colleges want to see.

Could the school look poorly on me if I follow provocative figures on social media?

It’s unlikely that they would use this against you unless the majority of people you follow are very extreme and highly controversial. That could show that you’re not open to different points of view, which could be problematic in college. If you’re interested in a topic, seek out a range of opinions.

Also, follow people who are influential in the area you’re interested in -- including the colleges you’re applying to. It will help you learn about the field -- and hey, if the school notices, it shows you’re serious.

Should I delete my social media or make it all private?

Making it private is a good idea anyway.

On most social media, a private account means your name won’t come up in search results, and it limits your digital footprint (how much stuff about you is available on the web). You don’t have to delete your accounts, though. Colleges expect prospective students to have social media. But if you’re applying to schools, it won’t hurt to groom your privacy settings on all your social media to make sure you’re not overexposing yourself. Some social media allows other people to tag you even if you’re not friends (such as through the facial recognition feature on Facebook). You wouldn’t want someone else’s post to negatively impact a college’s perception of you.

What should I do if I think a school unfairly disqualified me because of my social media?

Because colleges receive so many qualified applications, they’re typically looking at social media to see if it tips the scales in anyone’s favor -- not to dig up dirt. Maybe another applicants’ social media just made that person seem like a better match for the school. But if you think a skeleton in your Facebook closet came back to haunt you, you can contact admissions and find out.

Do I have to delete every single party pic of me and my friends?

No. Actually, colleges like to see that you’re a well-rounded person with a healthy social life. The main thing that could hurt you is posts that reflect poor judgment. When Harvard College got wind of offensive material being posted to a group chat by incoming freshmen, it rescinded acceptance letters to 10 students. That’s one reason not to post that kind of stuff. Get rid of any photos and videos that contain inappropriate behavior such as drinking, sexy stuff, and lots of swearing -- and no hostile speech, rudeness, or negative tweets about a school that you’re applying to.

Do my likes, followers, and other indicators of social media popularity help me or hurt me in the college admissions process?

If you’ve actively pursued a specific passion -- say, music, photography, or even the evolution of the shoe from ancient times to present -- and you’ve cultivated an active, engaged audience on social media, that’s a plus. College admissions will see that you have drive and initiative. On the other hand, having a big audience for more typical random teen interests, such as internet memes and cat videos, may not even register (and won’t be held against you).

I once got in a public war of words with someone not on my social media but on another online forum. Will that hurt me?

It might. If you posted under the same username that you Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2019

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TAKE YOUR SWING TO THE NEXT LEVEL Grand National is offering golf clinics this summer for junior golfers, ages 7-17, taught by PGA Certified pros.

The clinics will be held in three, Monday–Thursday sessions from 8:30-11:30 a.m.

SESSION 1: June 10-13 · SESSION 2: June 24-27 SESSION 3: July 15-18 $100 PER SESSION Lunch and a free Par 3 round are included each day. » FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER, CALL 334.749.9042. «

ur 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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The sounds of Pomp & Circumstance fill the air as we approach graduation season. When your graduate closes the door to childhood, you want to give him a gift that reflects that milestone. Stuck for ideas? No matter what your budget, you are sure to find a great gift for your graduate here:

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Spirit wear - Help your recent grad blend

in at their new school by getting them some college spirit wear. Contact the school directly or go online to PrepSportsWear.com.

They have an amazing database of colleges in the U.S and Canada.

Luggage - Maybe your grad is taking a year

off and plans to travel. Whether they are traveling first class or backpacking across the country, they need something to hold their things. For daily use, consider purchasing a book bag for walking around campus or a duffle bag for the gym.

SHE ONCE BUILT A FORT SO LARGE, THAT IT UTILIZED EVERY BLANKET, TOWEL, AND CHAIR IN THE WHOLE HOUSE.

Toolkit - If your grad is planning to move out

of Mom and Dad’s house, they won’t have access to Dad’s toolbox. A basic toolkit from your local hardware store includes screwdrivers, pliers, a hammer, measuring tape and other handy tools.

Gift cards - Gift cards are a one-size-fits-all

type of gift. New college students might appreciate a gas card or a gift card to Walmart, where they can pick up food, toiletries or household items. IKEA sells inexpensive furniture for small spaces.

A Basket of Goodies

- Whether your grad is starting out in his first apartment or headed to the dorm, he will appreciate a basket full of essentials. Fill a laundry basket with snack foods, toiletries, a sewing kit, and a roll of quarters for the Laundromat.

Books - A classic graduation book is Dr.

Seuss’ “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” which is an inspirational graduation sendoff for all ages.

For practical college advice, try “The Secrets of College Success” by Lynn F. Jacobs. To record their college experiences, consider buying a 5-year journal.

CHILDREN A M A Z E U S E V E R Y D AY

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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Money - The most popular gift for grads is

cash. The question is always, “How much should I spend?” Check out Simchabucks. com for a cash gift calculator. Fill in your relationship to grad, state the event takes place, who the gift is from and your household income to receive a dollar amount suggestion.

Homemade gift

- If you have the time to make it, a homemade gift is a heartfelt one.

Make a pillow or quilt out of high school and sports t-shirts. Put together a scrap book of high school memories and include theatre programs, sports medals and football programs. Create a photo montage of pictures from Kindergarten to graduation and present it at her party. AOP Pam Molnar is the mother of a high graduate this year. With a summer filled with parties to celebrate the Class of 2018, she will have the perfect gift for all the graduates in her life.

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A Page in a Book Time for Everything One of the hardest things to explain to children is the intangible movement of time.

For a toddler asking when they can have a snack, our response of ‘in a few minutes’ means very little to them. You can show them a timepiece or a calendar, but a child’s true understanding of time evolves mostly through their experience. Following routines that are dictated by the time (bed, bath, school) helps them cultivate an understanding of minutes and hours. Life events like vacations, birthdays, and holidays inform their knowledge of days, months and years. The following titles also highlight the passage of time in ways that nurture young readers’ understanding of the variety of ways we measure our moments.

Forever or a Day

by Sarah Jacoby (Chronicle Books) Traveling from the city to visit family in the countryside, the journey of a boy and his parents is the perfect vehicle to mark the personal nature of the passage of time. Poetic language calls out the fickleness of time as it both creeps and flies, alternately observed or invisible. Jacoby’s watercolor, pastel and mixed media illustrations perfectly capture the varied sensibility of time through the experience of family and background characters, each group with their own perception of its pace. All along this family’s picture book journey, Forever or a Day beautifully highlights the tangible rewards that punctuate our individual navigations of time.

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The Very Impatient Caterpillar

by Ross Burach (Scholastic) When a caterpillar notices his peers scrambling up a tree, he peppers them with questions, ‘Where are you going?’ ‘What are you doing?’ The caterpillar doesn’t understand their explanation of metamorphosis (or the patience it demands), but he does know he wants to be a butterfly, too! Approaching this change with a limited understanding of the process, the caterpillar gets his butterfly journey underway. But the waiting is a challenge as his perception of time is very different from reality. He had no idea that two weeks could move so slow. What follows inside the chrysalis is impatient caterpillar comedy gold as he tries to find innovative ways to pass the time.

With dialogue definitely dominated by the wildly uninformed caterpillar, read-aloud partners will enjoy laugh-out-loud moments time and again throughout this celebration of patience.

Ecclesiastes: To Everything There is a Season

by Cynthia Rylant (Beach Lane / Simon & Schuster) Inspired by the well-known verses from Ecclesiastes, Cynthia Rylant selects couplets that are best understood by picture book readers and pairs them with her signature gentle illustration. Building on the call and response rhythm of the original verses, each two page spread is devoted to a time. The painting of a child’s first seed garden accompanies the phrase ‘ a time to plant’ while the following page shows the harvested bloom coupled with ‘a time to pluck up that which has been planted’. And so it goes, each turn of the page showcasing the balance of time through a peaceful ebb and flow of events that mark its passage. Quietly informing a child’s experience of time, Ecclesiastes is a lovely celebration of the seasonal nature of our moments.

Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Alabama Rocks!

Summer Ecology Camp 2019

Kreher Preserve & Nature Center 1 st - 7 th Grades 8:00 - 12:00 M-F Visit our website to determine which week is best for your budding naturalist(s)!

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S’more Fun With Mom May 2nd & 3rd Science on Saturdays: Turtle Talk May 18

auburn.edu/preserve preserve@auburn.edu (334) 844-8091

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Find more reading recommendations at www.PageBookMedia.com.

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Who says summer can’t be just as educational and fun as school? Customizing a vacation schedule for each child in the family is an eye-opening adventure in and of itself. If you want a peaceful, happy summer, help your kids stretch their wings beyond the usual, school-year routine. Transform your kids’ summer into weeks of entertaining growth by thoughtfully scheduling activities they will love and appreciate.

When it comes to stringing together local experiences, imagine the beads that would go on a charm bracelet for each of your kids. Which beads best represent your child’s interests? A soccer ball, a book and pair of hiking boots? Or perhaps a fairy wand, ballet slippers and a teacup? No matter what the collection of interests, gather up some regional guides, hop online, and ask friends what they have planned for their kids. You are going on a summer activity hunt and you don’t want to miss out on any of your options.

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Take a customized approach to summer fun and meet the needs of your kids locally. You can find day camps, classes, workshops and activities in your area that will keep smiles on your kids’ faces all summer long.

Ink Year-round Commitments.

You may already have school-year activities that extend into summer like scouting or 4-H. Be sure to get these commitments on your child’s schedule first, so you don’t inadvertently overbook. If your child participates in a sport or another competitive activity, training camps may be required during summer. These can be enriching because kids who train over the summer often rejoin their teams playing at a higher level than the prior season.

Ask For Referrals. Chances are good that parents who have lived in your area for several years have the scoop on the best day camps and summer programs. Poll your friends individually or post a question on social media to gather information. Specify each child’s interests to draw the most relevant recommendations, then hand pick a summer plan to delight each child. Don’t send the funloving child who longs for improv classes to the same activities as the serious sibling who adores long games of chess. They can swap adventures on the car-ride home, but make sure their activities reflect their passions.

Don’t Overlook Summer School.

Generally speaking, if your child needs a leg-up on academics during the school year, summer school is a smart choice.

Since the summer before high school, we have signed our daughter up to take a wellness course in the summer. Getting a jump on pre-requisites allows her to take an extra art elective during the school year, which provides a welcome break during an intense school day. Ask your child’s school counselor if taking summer school courses might benefit your child’s schedule next year. Some districts allow online learning or swapping summer athletic training to fulfill physical education requirements.

Check Local Resources. Schools,

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guides they may offer. Also check towns near where you live to see if they offer programs that may interest your child. By driving one town over, we found a community theater production our daughter can participate in inexpensively each summer.

Now that’s worth a ten-minute drive.

Consider Your Child’s Needs.

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719 North Dean Road • Auburn Proudly serving the community for over 10 years Call us today to schedule your complimentary evaluation!

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Sometimes a kid-centric focus is part of an activity’s allure. But if you know your child flourishes in a structured environment with adult leadership, trust your instincts. Be mindful of how much structure and supervision each offering includes. Some kids are more self-motivated than others. Consider scaffolding more leadership into your child’s summer experiences over time. If your child is reticent about trying new activities, see if school friends would like to try a new activity together. Kids of working parents often appreciate an opportunity to participate in summer programming, if you can pick up most of the driving.

Go Your Own Way. Sometimes you want your child to benefit from the experience of trying a new experience without school friends. So go ahead and enroll in activities where enthusiasm for the topic will trump any first-day butterflies. Do not cave to peer pressure if all of the other kids are doing an activity that is not a good match for your child. If the program focus isn’t a good fit, the experience isn’t going to be enriching no matter how many friends are in attendance. Make timely, age-appropriate choices for your children, and when religion is an activity focus, make sure it fits with your family’s values.

Don’t Overlook A Summer Reading Challenge. If your child

has a busy summer schedule, you might be concerned about enough down time.

Signing your child up for a summer reading challenge at the beginning of summer is a great way to build downtime into any schedule. On busy days, reading will provide a welcome reprieve from social activity. And on lazy days, having a daily book-reading commitment can get an unscheduled day off to a good start. AOP

Christina Katz is an author, journalist, and writing coach who loves local adventures. She never runs out of interesting things to see and do in her area, and hopes to pass this attitude down to her daughter.

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Be Intentional with Your Time Q. As a business owner, how do you find a life balance between work and home? I have my own small business, and sometimes I feel like I’m putting in too much time at the shop and not spending enough time with my husband and kids.

A. The idea of everything being in balance, on an everyday basis, is a myth.

It’s simply not possible to perfectly juggle every aspect of our lives every single day.

The key, I think, is to strive for an overall balance over time. You know first-hand the long hours and how work can interfere with other things if you’re not careful. The

answer lies in really being into whatever you’re doing.

When you’re not at your shop or taking care of work-related matters, actively participate in conversations with your spouse and kids—and listen. Spend time with them! Turn off your cell phone when you go on dates with your husband and when you take your kids on outings.

When you’re with your family you should really be with them. Then, when you have to work, chances are they won’t be so upset, and you’ll feel better about things, too!

Don’t Go Too Far Q. Our son is 17, and he is in school. He has a good part-time job, and my wife and I started teaching him basic money management at a young age. He understands

the importance of saving, giving, and spending, plus he is setting aside money for technical school after he graduates from high school. Do you think it would be an appropriate real-world exercise if we started charging him a very small amount in rent each month to prepare him for life when he leaves home?

A. I appreciate the fact that you’re looking for teachable moments, but I really think charging a teenager rent while he’s living at home is going too far. Now, if he was 28 or 29, that’d be a different story. But as parents, it’s still your responsibility to provide a home for your 17-year-old child.

It sounds like you’ve done a fantastic job already of helping your son grow into a responsible young man. He knows how to work, and he has grasped the basic concepts of managing money. With this kind of start, I’ve got a feeling your kid will be fine. I also think he has a great chance of becoming wealthy some day!

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Arts/Crafts Auburn Parks and Recreation

Magic Tree House Club-K - 5th grade students. Be sure to sign up at the Youth Services Desk.

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, 222 East Drake Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830 Art for Young Children- June 25-27, July 16-18, 10:00am-noon, Ages 4-6; Fee $60.

Visual Arts Workshop for Kids- July 8-12, July 22-26. 9:00am-noon, Ages 7-12; Fee $90.

Day in Clay: June 22, 1:00-4:00pm. Fee $10.

By the Book: In the Meadow- Wednesdays, June 6-19, 9:00-10:30am; Ages 4-6. Fee $75 plus materials.

Clay By the Book: Owls and Kittens- Wednesdays, July 10-24, 12:30pm; Ages 4-6. Fee $75 It’s All About Me: Clay Handbuilding- June 18July 2; Tuesdays, 1:00-2:30pm; Ages 7-10. Fee $75 On the Surface: Clay Handbuilding- Thursdays, July 9-23, 1:00-2:30pm; Ages 11-14, $85.

Learning to Make Pottery on the Wheel- Thursdays, June 4-27, 9:00-10:30am; Ages 12-17, $100.

204 South Sixth Street, Opelika, Al 36801 Kids programs and book clubs offered throughout the year.

Columbus Museum

Ballet Academy

ad on page 15

334-501-2963

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus, Ga. 31906 Summer Camps- Pre-K, Ages 5-7, Ages 8-10, and Ages 11-13. Pre-K: $60 members/$80 future members. All Other Camps: $145 members/$165 future members. Fantastic Fridays- June 7, 14, 21, 28, July 5, 12, 19, 26. Second Saturdays- June 8, July 13 and August 10.

706-748-2562

www.columbusmuseum.com

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika, Al 36801 Summer Crafts, Art Camps, Kids Pottery and more.

334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Sew-thern Belles Sewing Studio

923-J Stage Road, Auburn, Al 36830 “Kids Can Sew” program for children 3rd grade and up. We offer a structured, fun environment where children learn while having a blast! Summer Camps offered; Spaces are limited.

229-869-6775

Spirited Art

116 South 8th Street, Opelika, Al 36801 Decide where your young artist fits best and then choose your date for summer camps! Each summer comes with brand new paintings created just for our campers! Our camps are designed for kids to have loads of fun while learning about the basics of painting. A talented instructor walks the kids through the paintings, step-by-step. At the end of the camp, the kids leave having made new friends and paintings they can be proud of!

334-363-5257

www.myspiritedart.com/auburn

The Art Studio

118 North Ross Street, Auburn, Al 36830 Summer Art Camps offers students a unique experience with a wide variety of mediums in fine art, learning about artists from around the world, art concepts and innovative techniques. Camps provides a thorough and comprehensive learning experience which include independent work as well as hands on instruction. Space is limited.

334-332-5275

www.theartstudioauburn.com

Book Clubs Auburn Public Library

749 East Thach Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830 American Girl Club- Grades K- 5th grade students.

Girls, be sure to sign up at the Youth Services desk and come meet with everyone.

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2019

334-501-3190

www.auburnalabama.org/library

Lewis Cooper Jr Memorial Public Library

334-705-5380

www.opelika.org

Dance Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 15

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center, 222 East Drake Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830 Tiny Workshop for Tiny Dancers- May 20-24, May 28-30,10:00-11:00am, Ages 3-4. K-Dance-Modern/ contemporary dance. June 1, July 6, and Aug 3.

10:15am; Ages 16 and up.

334-501-2963

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

ad on page 23

1703 Westend Court, Opelika, Al 36801 1st Summer Session: June 5 - June 28 2nd Summer Session: July 10-July 12 and July 24-Aug 2 Once Upon a Time Camp: June 11 - 15, 1 - 4 pm, Ages 4 - 6 Summer Intensive Week: July 16 - 20; Young Dancer Summer Intensive, Ages 10 - 13; and Advanced Dancer Summer Intensive, Ages 14 and up 334-737-5551

www.myballetacademy.net

Elite Dance Academy ad on page 16, 29

3760 Opelika Road, Phenix City, Al 36870 Summer Camps: Frozen-June 17-20, 1:004:00pm, ages 4-6 and Dumbo Acro- June 17-20, 1:00-4:00pm, ages 7-10. Technique Camp- June 17-20, all ages and levels. Expand current skills or try something new. Polish technique in ballet, tap, jazz, acro-dance and hip hop. Intensive/Dazzlin’ Dolls Camp- July 29-Aug 2, Level 2 Advanced. Full day camp preparing dancers for competition team or college dance. Classical ballet, contemporary, jazz, hip hop, tap and lyrical.

Summer Classes: July 1-18, 3 weeks of classes to condition and train in all dance and tumbling.

Our mission is to provide dancers with the best, most well-rounded dance program with a focus on college and professional dance preparation in a fun-filled, professional environment. We also have experience in professional auditions, modeling, pageants, voice, cheerleading, and dance/drill teams.

334-297-0404; www.elitedanceacademyinc.com

Tiger Twirlers with Gail Hammitt ad on page 13

189 E University Dr, Auburn, AL 36832 Baton twirling lessons and Summer Camp. Classes meet inside Max Fitness, Auburn 601-630-6994

Celtic Traditions

2705 Fredrick Road, Opelika, Al 36801 Check with studio for summer program.

334-705-0303

www.celtic-traditions.net

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Columbus State Univ. Dance Conservatory

4225 University Avenue, Elizabeth Bradley Turner Center, Columbus, GA 31907 Summer Sessions for Levels 1-7. Princess Ballet Camp 706-507-8070

www.ballet.columbusstate.edu

Make Your Move Performing Arts Studio

1220 Fox Run Ave, Suite 212, Opelika, AL 36801 Classes include: Acro, Jazz, Musical Theatre, Strength and Conditioning, Contemporary, Hip Hop, Ballet, Lyrical, Stretch/Leaps/ Turns, Tap, and more!

334-705-0205

www.makeyourmovedance.com

Nix Dance Studio

850 Stage Road, Auburn, Al 36830 Summer 6 week sessions begins June 4. VIP (Very Important Princess), Fancy Nancy Choreography, Hip Hop, ballet, turns & leaps, lyrical/contemporary, jazz, baton, and company auditions prep class.

334-887-7250

www.nixdancestudios.com

The Pointe School of Dance

204 South 8th Street, Opelika, Al 36801 Tots/Mommy & Me, Preballet/Beginning Ballet, Youth and Adult Programs include Ballet, Pointe, Jazz, Modern and Acro.

334-740-5118

www.aupointe.com

Variations Dance Studio

323 Airport Road, Suite F, Auburn, Al 36830 June 3-7 and July 15-19 : Moana Paint Party: Age 18 months-2yrs. Princess Tea Party: Ages 3-4yrs.

Tutu Remix: Ages 5-6yrs. Glitter Glam Jam: Ages 5/6yrs. Beginner Boogie Camp: Ages 7-10yrs.

Intermediate Summer Intensive and Advanced Summer Intensive: Ages 11-18. Summer Drop-In Classes available each week.

334-275-5013

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www.variationsauburn.com

Day Trips Callaway Gardens

17800 Us Highway 27, Pine Mountain, GA 31822 Summer hours- 9:00 am-6:00 pm daily. Callaway Gardens is a great location for family vacations in Georgia. Your family will love hiking in our gardens, swimming in Robin Lake, exploring the Cecil B. Day Butterfly Center, golf, spa and more. The FSU Flying High includes acrobats, juggling and more, teen activities, tennis clinics, water skiing & tubing, camp crafts, nature and wildlife adventures, fishing, archery, beach fun, cookouts, and more!

706-663-2281

www.callawaygardens.com

Chewacla State Park

124 Shell Toomer Pkwy, Auburn, AL 36830 696 scenic acres are a delightful pause from nearby interstate traffic. Facilities include a 26-acre lake, swimming area, playgrounds, hiking trails, a modern campground, picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters, and newly renovated cabins.

334-887-5621

www.alapark.com/chewacla-state-park

DeSoto Caverns

5181 DeSoto Caverns Parkway Childersburg, Al 35044 Nestled atop beautiful scenic Lookout Mountain in northeast Alabama, this 3,502-acre park provides Mountain Chalets, Log & Rustic Cabins, Motel Rooms, Meeting Rooms, and also has both improved & primitive campgrounds. Also features a picnic area with playground, olympic-size swimming pool, nature center with interpretive programs and live animals, & over 19 miles of hiking & mountain biking trails.

256-378-7252

www.desotocavernspark.com

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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go fishing. Children (6 to 12 years old) with families are encouraged to participate in the Junior Ranger Program.

Program booklets are available free at the Visitor Center. Children completing the required activities will be awarded a Certificate and Junior Ranger Badge.

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Georgia Aquarium

225 Baker Street NW Atlanta, GA 30313 With more than eight million gallons of fresh and marine water and more aquatic life than found in any other aquarium, you are sure to see things you’ve never seen before!

404-620-6530

www.georgiaaquarium.org

Horseshoe Bend Military Park

11288 Horseshoe Bend Rd, Daviston, AL 36256 Tour the free museum and view the 22 minute film, “The Battle of Horseshoe Bend”. Then enjoy hiking the trails, a picnic, canoe the Tallapoosa River, and

275 Centennial Olympic Pk Dr, Atlanta, GA 30313 Atlanta’s only children’s museum, is the perfect place for children age eight and under and their families to learn and explore together in a safe and fun hands-on environment.

404-659-5437

www.childrensmuseumatlanta.org

Lake Lanier Islands-Chattahoochee Rapids Beach & WaterPark

7000 Holiday Rd, Buford, GA 30518 With more than a dozen exciting rides and attractions, Chattahoochee Rapids Beach & WaterPark at Lake Lanier Islands Resort offers summer fun for the entire family. The Beach & WaterPark is a multi attraction interactive family environment that offers endless fun while getting drenched. Come experience Wild Waves, Georgia’s largest wave pool, or

take a ride down one of our many waterslides. The Kiddie Lagoon and Wiggle Waves are perfect for pint-sized guests and relaxing is easy on our halfmile of sandy white beach!

1-800-840-LAKE

www.lakelanierislands.com

LegoLand Discovery Center

3500 Peachtree Rd. NE, Atlanta, GA 30326 Explore our indoor attractions! 15 rides and attractions including LEGO® rides, soft play area, 4D cinema, MINILAND, guided tours, DUPLO® Village, LEGO® Friends Olivia’s House, LEGO® Ninjago Laser Maze and more, all ideal for children aged 3-10 years. Tickets $15-$19, children 2 years and under free. Hours: Sunday-Friday, 10:00am-7:00pm and Saturday, 10:00am-9:00pm.

404-848-9252

www.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

McWane Science Center

200 19th Street N, Birmingham, AL 35203 McWane Science Center has a number of permanent exhibits that are a regular part of the science education experience. These include Itty Bitty Magic City, Explore! Collections Center, Alabama Dinosaurs and Sea Monsters, NatureScope, Fox 6 Weather Lab, Science on a Sphere, High Cycle, World of Water Aquarium, Shark and Ray Touch Tank, the John W. Woods IMAX Dome Theater.

205-714-8300

www.mcwane.org

Port Columbus- National Civil War Naval Museum

1002 Victory Drive, Columbus, Georgia 31901 The National Civil War Naval Museum tells the story of the Sailors, Soldiers, and Civilians, both

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CREMASCHI, ANDREA DANIEL, WHITLEY DAVIS, ELEANOR DAVIS, ISAAC EARLES, EMMA CLAIRE ERDMANIS, ISABELLA GRIFFIN ILL, FRED L HARRIS, RALEIGH ANNA HUSSEY, BRANTLEY KITE, CANDICE KITE, CHRISTIAN MCCUTCHEN, WILSON MEADOR, ANN F MEADOR, THOMAS MESSER, WILLOW MIRANDA, AVA MIRANDA, BREE MORGAN, ADELIA PARMER, AVERY PARMER, ETHAN ROBINSON, DELILAH SHIFLETT, SUSAN STRONG, ETHAN THOMPSON, MAKAYTA WHATLEY, CHARMA (ISABELLA) WHITE, IDEN WHITE, KYLEIGH WHITE, TERRY AMASON, NATALIE GREENE, JA KALIN HENDRICKS, MARKYLIN HIGGINS, JERRY (TRENT) JOHNSON, DAKARI POWELL, CASSIDY POWELL, COURTNEY L POWELL, PRESTON ROGERS, ELIJAH RUFF, SARAH D SANDERS, BRODY R SMITH, BORIS STALLINGS, SHAWN WELDON, ELIJAH BOSWELL, SALLY

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WILLIAMSON, REILLY WILLIAMSON, WESLEY ANDREWS, ALISSA BANKS, KENS'EY DUNN, LILLIAN C DUNN, RAMER GEIGER ILL, DANIEL L GREEN, BENNETT GREEN, JACKSON GREEN, WILLIAM GRUBBS, SADIE HALL, JASMINE HARDY, MURDOCH HOSKINS, HOOVER HUNT, CONNER PREWETT JR, RUSSELL SMITH, CHARIS SMITH, PAUL SMITH, TIMOTHY STRAIN, DALLAS HUE TERRY, TYMNA TIGNOR, COOPER TIGNOR, LEVI WELDON, KAITLYN WILDER, WILLIAM WILSON, SABRINA WOODLEY, SAVANNAH ALBERT, JAYLA BAILEY, BANCROFT, GENESISKENNEDY BANCROFT, WALKER BARNES, JULIA BARNES, TESSA BLACKMON, J AVIAN CARMICHAEL, ROY CARMICHAEL, TOWNSEND COBB, MASON COFIELD, COLLINS COX, HARPER ECKSTRAND, ALYSSA GONZALEZ, HECTOR GRIGGS, KEVIN HARRISON, LILLIAN HOLLAND, WALKER HOLMES, JOHN HOLMES, MERRITT HOLMES, REECE HUNT, SAMARAH JOHNSON, JENNIFER LEMOINE, TRINITY LOCKHART, EZRA LOCKHART, IRA ORANTES, CHRISTIAN

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BETTENCOURT, AUBREE BLANKENSHIP, ADDISON BUCKNER, JACOB BUCKNER, JONAH CAMPBELL, ETHAN CAMPBELL, KATE CAMPBELL, SARAH COLLINS, MORGAN COX, SAVANNAH DENNIS, AUBRIE DUFFEE, CHLOE FOSTER, CARSON GOAR, KENNETH HAYES, KAYLA HENDRIX, ANN-LANGSTON HENDRIX, HARPER HENDRIX, THOMAS C HENDRIX, WITTIAM MAY, EMILIA MCLEOD, KYRIE MIXON, BROOKLYN MOODY, WILLIAM NELMS, CHARLES NELMS, JUSTIN NELMS, TIMOTHY SANDERS, ADALYN (ADDIE) SANDERS, AVERY SIMS, CATHRYN SIMS, MOLLIE STACEY, OLIVIA VI"ATORO, HENRRY YOUNG, GARNER ARRINGTON, KHYLI BARTOL, ATICUS B BROOKS, CHAYLAYA LUEKE, ANNA LEE MCAVOY, KATELY MCCANTS, MARQUES MUMMA, KIPTYN SARDINAS, ANNA BRYANT, HAYLEE BUTTS, LUKE BUTTS, NOAH CAPPS, ASA CAPPS, SAWYER CHESHIRE, JORDAN CLANTON, ADDISON CLANTON, JACOB HALLMARK, CHARLIE HALLMARK, SAVANNAH HARRIS, THOMAS HAYNES, MARY G

HENDRICKSON, ABBEY HENDRICKSON, ISLA HUFSTEDLER, BRADEN JONES, ADDYSON KIM, CHLOE KNIGHT, CADANCE LECROY, BENTLEY LECROY, CHRISTOPHER SAUCEDA, BRYAN (JORDAN) SMITH, TURNER SPORT, ROBERT STRICKLAND, WILLIAM THORNTON, PROMYSE TRAWICK, GRACE TRAWICK, PRICE VALLE, ANNA M VALLE, NOAH WYNNE, TRUITT ATTEN, DESTINEE BAILEY, ABBIGAIL BEASLEY, SIMONE DUBOIS, AARON FRATIC, HEAVEN KEY, JORDAN KEY JR, DOMINIQUE KING, ROMEO LITTLE, ASHTON LITTLE, LE MARTY MACON, JAYDEN RASHID, RAABA RAY, XAVIER SHARPE, ELIZABETH SIGGERS, ETTA SIGGERS, JAMES TERRY, VALENTINO TORRANCE, KAMIA TREADWAY, MICHAEL WOOD, PAISLEY WOODYARD, CE'DASHIA

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Free and Enslaved as affected by the Navies of the American Civil War and provides a repository for relevant archives and artifacts on the subject, for all generations of the public. The Museum uses all available media systems/distribution platforms and live interpretation in furtherance of this mission.

706-327-9798

www.portcolumbus.org

Stone Mountain Park

1000 Robert E. Lee Blvd, Stone Mountain, GA Lots of fun and activities including the Geyser Towers, Sky Hike, laser shows, hiking, musical entertainment, kids’ foam pit, Summit Skyride, Great Locomotive Chase Adventure Golf, the Antebellum Plantation and Great Barn.

June 8-July 28- Summer at the Rock May 24-27- Memorial Day Weekend July 1-7- Fantastic Fourth Celebration Aug 31- Sept 2- Labor Day Weekend 1- 800-401-2407

www.stonemountainpark.com

child’s mind, summer is the perfect time to join Kumon. The Kumon Method lets children learn at their own pace, so they can grasp any concept regardless of age or grade level. Here, your child will gain confidence that will last a lifetime. Now’s the time for Kumon. Schedule a free placement test today!

334-501-8586

www.kumon.com/auburn-opelika

Science Matters

249 Sciences Center Classroom, Auburn, Al 36849 A summer enrichment program for rising 1st-6th graders offering youngsters a supercharged science experience. The program allows participants to explore the world of science through real experiments, technology and art projects, and hands-on, make-n-take activities. During the week, kids design and build, dabble in the art of chemistry, become a flight specialist, see amazing critters, and more!

334-844-5769

www.auburn.edu/cosam/outreach

Wind Creek State Park

4325 Al Hwy 128, Alexander City, AL 35010 This park spans 1,445 acres along the shores of scenic Lake Martin, that is a 41,000-acre clear-water reservoir perfect for fishing, swimming and boating. Park facilities include the largest state-operated campground in the United States with 626 sites.

256-329-0845 Creek

www.alapark.com/Wind-

Education/Tutoring Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 15

Frank Brown Recreation Center, 235 Opelika Rd, Auburn, AL 36830 Handwriting 101-Class is to develop and/or improve handwriting, and is taught with the award-winning Handwriting Without Tears method as well as instructor experience. Wednesdays, June 5-July 31. Age 4-6; 12:30-1:30pm, Dean Rd Rec Center. $100. Computer Programming Seminar- Join us for a FREE seminar covering the basics of programming, web development and gaming. Bring a computer to follow along or simply sit and learn new information. June 5, 2:00-4:00pm, Ages 10 and up. Computer Programming for Games- Learn to program by learning how to build a game. We’ll use the python programming language which is wonderful for beginners. Come and check out and learn something new. Wednesdays, June 12-July 31, 3:00-4:00pm. Ages 10 and up.

334-546-2353

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Auburn University Summer Reading Program for Children and Adults

Haley Center, 351 W Thach Ave, Auburn, AL 36849 For an enjoyable activity with lifelong benefits, we recommend one of our reading skills programs designed and taught by instructors from the Institute of Reading Development. Programs are offered as a community service by Auburn University, Office of Professional and Continuing Education.

800-963-8888 www.auburn.edu/outreach/opce/summerreading.htm

Kumon Math & Reading Center

1550 Opelika Rd Ste 36, Auburn, AL 36830 This summer, put your child on the path to a lifetime of learning. With the school year fresh in your Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2019

Family Fun Kreher Preserve and Nature Center ad on page 27

2222 North College Street, Auburn, Al 36830 May 2 & 3 - Annual S’more Fun With Mom! Join us for S’more Fun with Mom, Lee County’s mother/ son adventure, co-hosted by the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center and the City of Auburn. For boys aged 4 to 12 and their moms, this fun evening will include a night hike, cookout, storytelling, and of course s’mores! Our mother/son duos may visit a craft station to create their own keepsake art project. And a photographer will be available for photos. 6:00-8:30pm. $30 couple/ $10 each child.

May 8 - Family Discovery Hike: Gardening- Join our guides for an educational adventure as you and your children take in the many sights and sounds of the Preserve. Discovery Hikes offer excellent opportunities to learn about nature and see wildlife up close, while enjoying fresh air and exercise in our beautiful outdoors. Discovery Hikes are for families with children ages 5 to 12 and are offered the second Tuesday of each month from 3:30 – 4:30 p.m. Each month features a new seasonal theme.

Groups meet at the pavilion.

May 9- Run/Walk for Mental Health - Race time is 6:30 PM. Pickup your packets between 5:00 PM and 6:00 PM. This is a casual walk/run and will not be timed. Everyone is welcome! All participants will receive a high-quality shirt.

May 13 - Nature Explorers: Amazing AlabamaJoin our educators for a program specially designed for home-schooled students, groups, and families.

Through this program, we will explore science related topics through interactive learning in our

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120-acre classroom. Each session will include an educational program and an interpretive hike through the property. 10-11:30am.

May 18 - Science on Saturday: Turtle Talk Did you know that Alabama has more turtles then any other state in the United States!? With our perfect habitat and diverse geology, turtles can be found all over Alabama. Learn all about these fascinating reptiles from guest speaker Stan Arrington, Auburn University’s Fisheries biologist and naturalist. And, meet a lot of our native turtles and a few non-native turtles and tortoises. Children’s activities will be available.This is a one-hour, lecture-style program that will provide the opportunity to see and interact with live animals. Admission is $5 ($4 for members); children 3 and under are free.

May 28-31: Summer Ecology CampCamp Discovery June 3-7: Summer Ecology Camp: Young Naturalist June 10-14: Summer Ecology Camp: Explorers June 17-21: Summer Ecology Camp: Junior Rangers June 24-28: Summer Ecology Camp: Explorers June 11- Family Discovery Hike: Berries.

See above.

June 20- Palettes & Plants. Join local artist Lauren Duncan for this unique and exciting art workshop.

Learn about some native plants from the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center’s educators and then experiment with a variety of watercolor paint techniques.

Each student will create a series of 3 watercolor leaf paintings. All materials are provided – please bring snacks and drinks!

June 29- Science on Saturdays: RaptorsRaptors are birds of prey with sharp beaks and powerful talons! At this program, representatives from Auburn University’s Southeastern Raptor Center will visit to show you some of these incredible birds, up-close and in-person. The program will include a variety of live raptors, most native to Alabama, and you learn all about their habitat, natural history, and the challenges facing these majestic creatures. Children’s activities will be available. July 9- Family Discovery Hike: Reptiles. See above 334-844-8091

wp.auburn.edu/preserve/

AMC Auburn Movie Theater

2111 East University Drive, Auburn, Al 36830 Kids’ Summer Movie Camp Series: Wednesday mornings, throughout the summer. $4.00 plus tax, admission ticket and snackpack. June 5-Trolls, June 12- Wonder Park, June 19- Hotel Transylvania 3, June 26- Peter Rabbit, July 3- Small Foot, July 10- Lego Movie 2, July 17- Teen Titans Go, July 24-The House with the Clock on the Walls, July 31How to Train Your Dragan 2.

334-501-0401

www.amctheatres.com

AMF Bowling

719 Opelika Road, Auburn, Al 36830 Free bowling for kids all summer long! Kids registered in the Summer Unplugged program can bowl two games per day, every day, all summer long! (Shoe rental not included.) www.freebowling.amf.com.

334-887-6573

www.amf.com/auburnlanesal

Auburn Escape Zones

1234 Commerce Drive, Auburn, Al 36830 Escape rooms are a fun, interactive game experience new to the Auburn/Opelika area. 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.

205-410-8141

www.auburnescapezones.com

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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CyberZone

Surge Trampoline Park

107 North 9th Street, Opelika, Al 36801 Whether its lasertag, state-of-the-art arcades in The Grind, BounceZone, nostalgic retro games, or getting your snack on at the CyberCafe, we’re bound to have something to keep you entertained for hours!

2506 Pepperell Pkwy Opelika, AL 36801 Surge Trampoline Park in Opelika Alabama is a cutting-edge entertainment, fitness and sports facility unlike anything you have ever experienced.

We have created a venue for active social outings, intense workouts, and awesome birthday parties.

Good Times Bowling

The Montgomery Zoo and Mann Museum

334-737-5000

www.cyberzone334.com

750 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830 Bowling, Arcades, Escape Room, Café 334-539-3131

www.goodtimesbowling.com

Hollywood Connection

1683 Whittlesey Road, Columbus, Ga, 31909 125,000 square feet of state-of-the-art entertainment with movies, amusements, attractions, games, food and fun!

706-571-3456

www.hollywoodconnectionga.com

National Infantry Museum

1775 Legacy Way, Columbus, Georgia 31903 NIM Kids Summer Camp is a day camp filled with great activities for ages 6-14, designed to promote teamwork and teach the Army values. There are six week-long sessions over this summer.

706-685-5800

www.nationalinfantrymuseum.org/

Sports Academy

3716 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika. Al 36801 Auburn/Opelika’s premiere indoor sports training and conditioning facility! We cater to athletes of all sports, skill levels and all ages! 334-749-4040 www.sportsacademyauburn.com

334-737-5599

www.surgeopelika.com

www.montgomeryzoo.com

Wild Animal Safari

1300 Oak Grove Rd, Pine Mountain, Ga 31822 You can drive your own vehicle (or take the complimentary bus tour- seasonal) thru our Drive-Thru safari and get to experience hand feeding the animals. On the safari the exotic animals will literally come up to your car and eat right out of the palm of your hand. Scattered through our entire park we have approx. 650 animals, (and counting!)

706- 663-8744

www.animalsafari.com/Georgia

Zoo Atlanta

800 Cherokee Ave SE, Atlanta, GA 30315 Monday-Friday: 9:30am-5:30pm, ticket booths close at 4:30 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday: 9:30am.6:30pm., ticket booths close at 5:30pm.

404-624-WILD

www.zooatlanta.org

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Opelika Parks and Recreation

1102 Denson Drive, Opelika, Al 36801 Parent and Me Tumbling, Tumble Tots, Level I Tumbling- Level III Tumbling, Cheer Prep Tumbling and more.

334-705-5547

2301 Coliseum Pkwy, Montgomery, AL 36110 May 12- Mother’s Day Dino Dig Education Day- May 18. Zoo Camp: June 3-7, June 10-14, June 17-21, June 24-28, July 8-12, July 15-19, and July 22-26. June 16- Father’s Day. July 10- Zoo Serve Day, July 20- Animal Enrichment.

334-240-4900

Gymnastics/Cheer

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Premier Spirit Academy

923-B Stage Road, Auburn, Al 36830 Tiny Tots, Mighty Tots, Tumbling Kids, Ninja Academy, Cheer Basic and more.

334-821-7300

www.premierspiritacademy.com

Xtreme Athletics

3732 Pepperell Pkwy, Opelika, Al 36801 Competitive cheer and gymnastics, camps and kids night out programs.

334-759-7030

www.xtremeathleticsauburn.com

Horseback Riding Hunter’s Ridge Farm ad on page 17

8182 Wire Road, Auburn, Al 36830 3 Summer Camps: June 3-7, June 10-14, July 15-19. Learn Basic horse care, learn how to ride, participate in horse-related and non-horse-related games and activities. Camps are for children ages 5 to 13 - no experience necessary! $425 per camper per session.

334-728-1004

www.huntersridgefarm.net

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H & G Horse Quarters

943 Lee Road 57, Auburn, Al 36832 An equestrian center located in Auburn offering lessons, boarding, showing, and camp sessions.

H&G Camps are designed to develop each student in a fun safe environment; teaching horsemanship, care, barn etiquette, along with varying levels of riding skills.

334-887-0026

www.hghorsequarters.com

Local Camps

provide yourself. Serving the Opelika region for over 25 years, Bonnie’s Kids Child Care has been helping working families with attentive, conscientious and supportive child care in times of need, providing young children with guidance, confidence, nutrition, emotional and physical exercising and support, and honest to goodness love. Summer camp includes 3 field trips per week for school age children including swimming, bowling, area parks, movie theater, Auburn University, Callaway Gardens and more! Also offering Premier Spirit Academy tumbling, dance, music, computer and more!

Auburn First Baptist Child Development Center

334-745-6248

128 East Glenn Ave, Auburn, Al 36830 Summer Camp is a Field-Trip based Program; All summer, 7:00am to 5:30pm Monday - Friday. DropIns Welcome (space permitting). Summer Camp Enrollment is currently taking place for Kindergarten-completion of 5th grade (child must have completed Kindergarten). The Child Development Center is a ministry of Auburn First Baptist Church in which we provide safe, loving, quality care for children in a Christian environment. We strive to provide the best in early education by providing hands-on learning so that each child may develop to his or her highest potential cognitively, physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually.

1600 2nd Avenue South, Birmingham, AL 35233 Smile-A-Mile’s mission is to provide hope, healing of the spirit and love for the whole family during the childhood cancer journey. Through year-round meaningful and educational programming, SmileA-Mile helps those in Alabama who are affected by childhood cancer thrive during treatment and the years beyond. Camps include family therapy camps, sibling camps, jr/sr camps, youth and teen camps.

ad on page 4

334-821-8125

www.auburnfbc.org

Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 15

425 Perry St, Auburn, AL 36830 Camp Kaleidoscope- Auburn Jr. High School.

Session A: June 4-8; Session B: June 11-15; Session C: June 18-22; Session D: July 9-13; Session E: July 16-20; Session F: July 23-27; 8:00am-5:00 pm. Each week of camp will be filled with games, activities, special guests, and field trips. 6-12 years; $130 per week, $100 per week for each additional sibling and $680 for the entire summer.

Junior Camp Counselor Program- Ages: 13-15 years; The Counselor position is a volunteer position that teaches teens responsibility and allows them to mentor younger campers at Camp Kaleidoscope. This is a great opportunity for teens to learn invaluable skills necessary for their first “real” job and provides a great atmosphere to socialize with other junior camp counselors in a fun and exciting setting. Also, this is a chance for teens to earn community service credit hours and give back to their community.

Summer Therapeutic Day Camp- Alison Hall, 501-2930, ahall@auburnalabama.org, 7 week summer day camp designed for young adults with various disabilities. Program includes lifeskills training such as handling money, team work, social skills, square dancing, swimming, and other physical recreation activities. The campers also participate in field trips.

334-501-2930

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Bonnie’s Kids Childcare Center ad on page 12

2314 Enterprise Drive, Opelika, Al 36801 When your schedule says, “You can’t be there”, place your kids in Bonnie’s Care. Bonnie’s Kids Child Care can lovingly step in when your busy schedule takes you away from your young, preschool children, when you naturally want them cared for and watched over with the same love, attention, protection and nurturing that you would Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2019

www.bonnieskidschildcare.com

Camp Smile-a-Mile ad on page 5

205-323-8427

www.smileamile.com

Growing Room Child Development Center ad on page 20

644 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830 and 1755 Thomason Drive, Opelika, AL 36801 Growing Room’s Galactic Getaway blasts off this Summer on May 28, 2019. Our Summer Camp includes exciting events and activities for every age group, from Infants to our School Agers. This year our Summer Camp is all about a journey through space!

Each week our campers will participate in unique crafts and special events with themes related to Space and our Galaxy. Our 4 year olds will enjoy biweekly field trips, while our School Age kids will enjoy fun & exciting field trips every week! Our summer curriculum continues to include educational concepts such as literacy, math, science, and character education. Children enjoy warm nutritious meals and the safest play possible on our state of the art playground.

Give your child the best summer ever at the Growing Room. We’re open Monday-Friday, 6:30am-6:30pm.

334-501-2044 and 334-748-9020 www.growingroomusa.com

Active8- Columbus State University, Continuing Education Summer Camps

4225 University Ave, Elizabeth Bradley Turner Center Columbus, GA 31907 Genius at Play! 10 weeks of active summer fun!

Half day and full day options, before and after care available, new camps to choose from every week.

Camps begin June-Aug. 706-507-8070.

www.activ8er.com

Auburn University Summer Youth Outreach Programs

213 Samford Hall, Auburn University, AL 36849 Camps include Academic, Sports, Special Interest and much more! June-August.

334-844-5700

www.auburn.edu/summercamps

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika, Al 36801 Covington Day Camp, Plex Kids, Plex Camp and Covington Kids Camp.

334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

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P.E.E.P.S. (Poultry and Egg Experiences for Prospective Students)

Auburn University, College of Agriculture, 107 Comer Hall, Auburn, AL 36849 Camp is designed to educate students in the areas of agriculture, food, science and poultry.

334-844-2881

www.poul.auburn.edu/outreach/summer

University Daycare

2900 Waverly Parkway, Opelika, Al 36801 Regularly scheduled outings for school aged children to exciting destinations and opportunities to learn about their communities. New volunteer service projects planned too. In addition to fun activities, our educational program/curriculum will continue throughout the summer.

334-203-1234

www.udcauburn.com

Martial Arts Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 15

Dean Road Recreation Center, 307 South Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830 Yoshukai Karate- June 4-Aug 29. Beginner through advanced classes. $125/quarter. Karate is a martial art that emphasizes self-confidence, personal worth and physical fitness. This class teaches basic strikes, blocks and kicks. Tournament sparring and self-defense fighting is in a controlled setting.

334-703-2402

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

World Champion Taekwondo ad on page 25

2701 Fredrick Road, Suite 308. Opelika, Al 36830 Combining traditional and modern teaching techniques and principles to fit all ages and levels.

Preschool to adult classes offered.

334-737-5617

www.martialartsauburn.com

Auburn Academy of Martial Arts

323 Airport Rd, Suite J, Auburn, Al 36830 Summer Camp themes include: Padded Weapons, Board Breaking, Bully Buster Techniques, Tournament Sparring. Learning, discipline, and FUN! 334-502-7221

www.auburnacademy.com

Auburn Mixed Martial Arts

2515 East Glenn Commerce Park #204, Auburn, Al 36830 Teach realistic, but safe, fighting techniques in the martial arts of: Brazilian Jiu jitsu, Muay Thai, Wrestling, Judo, Kickboxing, Anti Bully Techniques and Submission Grappling.

334-887-0818

www.auburnmma.com

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika, Al 36801 Karate- Ages 6-adult. Begin as a new student or advance your skills in traditional style Japanese Karate taught by certified Black Belt level instructors.

334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Music Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 15

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. 222 East Drake Ave, Auburn. Al 36830 Musical Theatre Camp I, II, and III- June 10-14, Ages 3-18 yrs; $150-$170. Whether you have been on stage many times, or never, this camp is for you.

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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You’ll learn music, choreography and do character development activities for several Broadway Musical numbers.

Summer Intensive- June 17-21 and July 22-26.

Ages 3-18yrs; $150. Whether you are a beginning or experienced actor, you will be able to learn something new. It is fun and fast paced.

We will focus on improvisation, voice and movement and scene studies AACT Academy Summer “Play”- July 8-12; Ages 7-12, $180. From auditions to performance, young actors will be able to go through the whole process of producing a play. Using a children’s literature story for our base, the actors will be able to write some of their lines, develop their character, create their own set, costume and make-up design sketches. We will not actually be able to build their set designs, but we will use simple stage make-up, costumes and props.

After Hour Theatre- July 22-25, Ages 5-12, $25. After hours theater will begin immediately after the AACT Summer intensive. The kids will participate in theater games and will have an opportunity to explore some of the theater concepts learned that day. Joy’s Music and Singing Lessons- Camp will bring your music appreciation and singing skills to the next level, by teaching students how to read music scores, write music notes, know classical composers, apply professional vocal techniques and sing songs together. There will also be a lot of fun.

June 3-Aug 30.

Rhythm Guitaring Lessons- June 1-Aug 31, Ages 8-17, $35/month.

334-501-2963

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Auburn University Band Camps ad on page 27

Goodwin Music Building, Auburn, Alabama 36849 Sounds of Summer Marching Percussion BandJune 4-5. Drum Major/Leadership Camp- June 12-15. Marching Auxiliary Camp- June 20-22. High School Symphonic Band- June 9-12. Middle School Symphonic Band- June 20-22.

334-844-4156

www.band.auburn,edu

Spicer’s Music

2140 E. University Drive, Auburn, Al 36830 Rock Camp Jr, Rock Camp and Rock Camp Promorning and afternoon sessions. ages 8 - 18! If you love music, and want to play in a rock band, this camp. Camp Kazoo: This fun-filled, positive camp introduces children ages 3 to 7 to the wonderful world of music.

334-329-7529

www.spicersmusic.com

Summer Showoffs

Auburn High School, 405 South Dean Rd, Auburn, AL 36830 June 24-28 and July 8-12, Parkway Baptist Church, 9:00am-2:00pm, $290. www.summershowoffs.com

Sports/Fitness Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 15

425 Perry St, Auburn, AL 36830 Sports Camp- June 17-21, June 24-28. 8:00am-

12:00noon; Ages 9-12years, Campers will have the opportunity to participate in a different sport each day. Sports include baseball, soccer, tennis, track, basketball. Camp will be at a different location each day.

Academy of Starz Basketball Camp - June 1013, June 17-20, Ages 8-18, Fee $75.

ASA Thunder Tykes Camp- June 18-20 and July 23-25, 5:00-6:30pm; Age 4-5. Fee: $50.

ASA Rising Tiger Soccer Camp- June 3-6 and July 8-11, Age 6-8. Fee: $75.

ASA Junior Soccer Camp- June 3-7 and July 8-11, Ages 9-13. Fee: $85.

ASA Goalkeeper Soccer Camp- August 5-8, Ages 10-18. Fee: $100.

ASA Advanced Soccer Camp- August 5-8, Ages 10-18. Fee: $100.

Tots Tennis and Fitness- June-August. 9:009:30am. Ages 2-3.

Tennis Camps- May 27-30, July 29-Aug 1, Ages 6-18.

334-501-2930

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Auburn University Soccer Camps ad on page 35

Auburn Athletics Complex, 392 S Donahue Drive, Auburn, AL 36849 June 7-8- Soccer Goalkeeper & Striker Camp.

Ages 11-18, $250.

June 16-19- June Residential and Commuter Camp. Age 9-18. $375-$475.

July 12-14- Elite Camp. Age 13-18. $425.

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July 8-11- Day Camp. Age 5-12. $130.

July 14-17- Residential and Commuter Camp.

Age 9-15. $375-$475.

334-844-9637

www.auburnsoccercamp.com

Auburn University Volleyball Camps ad on page 7

Auburn Athletics Complex, 392 S Donahue Drive, Auburn, AL 36849 July 8- Position Camp I July 10- Position Camp II July 8- Serving Clinic I July 10-Serving Clinic II. July 5-7- High School All-Skills Camp July 19-21- Youth All-Stars Camp.

July 11-14- Team Tournament and Camp 334-844-4750

www.auburnvolleyballcamps.com

Robert Trent Jones Grand National Golf Clinics ad on page 23

3000 Robert Trent Jones Trail, Opelika, Al 36801 4 Sessions: June 10-13, June 24-27, and July 15-18. Take your swing to the next level! Grand National is offering golf clinics this summer for junior golfers, ages 7-17, taught by PGA Certified pros. $100 per session; 8:30-11:30 a.m. Lunch and a free Par 3 round are included each day.

334-749-9042

www.Rtjgolf.com

Auburn Thunder Soccer

Elite soccer club for boys and girls ages 9-18.

256-655-4448

www.auburnthundersoccer.com

HealthPlus

1171 Gatewood Drive, Auburn, Al 36830 Youth Swim for Fitness- This is a chance for kids to learn a lifetime fitness activity. Our hour-long workout will improve endurance; perfect technique and help children learn advanced swimming skills.

Children must have completed Snappers Level 3 or be at least 8 years old to participate.

Fitness Fun Camp- A safe and fun-filled camp environment that will promote fitness, health, creativity and friendship.

Kids’ Gym- Ages 5-12. Members free; non-members $2.00 per visit. Activities include climbing wall, scooters, basketball, relays, kickball, tag games, dodge ball, jump rope and much more. At the pool, children may swim or play quietly on the pool deck.

334-887-5666

www.healthplusfitness.com

My Gym

300 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830 Drop the kiddos off at My Gym for 3-hours of non-stop indoor fun. We’ll be doing games, relays, gymnastics, sports skills, arts and crafts and much more! Snack Included! Summer Camp is great for children ages 2.5yrs to 9yrs! Space is limited so reserve your spot today!

334-246-0987

www.mygym.com/auburn

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika, Al 36801 August 3- SportsPlex Tri for Kids: Register now!

Swim, Bike and Run! www.sportsplexforkids.com; Camps include most sports, cheer and tumbling.

334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Plains Junior Golf

Moore’s Mill Golf Club, 1957 Fairway Dr, Auburn, AL 36830 Offering girls, boys and co-ed golf camps.

334-319-0051

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2019

Sports Academy

3768 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, Al 36801 Offering private lessons in batting, throwing and more.

334-740-3030

www.sportsacademyauburn.com

City Pool Season passes will be sold at the Dean Road Recreation Center. Individual and Family passes available.

334-501-2957

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Opelika Parks and Recreation Covington Pool

Swimming

213 Carver Ave. Opelika, Al 36801

www.auburnalabama.org/parks

HealthPlus

1171 Gatewood Drive, Auburn, Al 36830 Infant Swimming Resource- teaches infants and toddlers ages 6 months to 6 years using the ISR Self-Rescue™ method.

Water Babies- Baby’s first swim lesson. Parents and children participate in eight 30-minute guided practice sessions that help children learn elementary skills, including water entry, bubble blowing, front kicking, back floating, underwater exploration, and more.

334-887-5666

www.healthplusfitness.com

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika, Al 36801 Opelika SeaDawgs Summer Swim Team, SeaDawgs Pups, Swim Lessons, Lifeguard Training and Float In Movies.

334-705- 2488

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Tiger Swim Lessons

James E. Martin Aquatics Center, 664 Biggio Dr, Auburn University, AL, 36849 2 week sessions with 30 minute classes 334-737-4427

Swimming Pools Auburn Parks and Recreation Samford Pool ad on page 15

465 Wrights Mill Road, Auburn, Al 36830 Auburn City pools will open on May 25. Auburn

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Auburn Parks and Recreation Samford Pool, 465 Wrights Mill Road, Auburn, Al 36830 Summer Swim Lessons and TeamsSamford Pool, 465 Wrights Mill Road, Auburn. 501-2958 or 501-2930. LessonsMorning and evening classes offered.

Ages 6 months and up. Participants should wear appropriate swimwear, as testing may be required. For more information, visit auburnalabama.org/pools or pick up a copy of Auburn Parks and Recreation’s Summer Brochure. Sea Babies- Ages 6 months-3 years; Sea Turtles- Ages 3-5yrs; Guppies- Ages 6-10 yrs; Dolphins- Ages 11-15yrs; Big Fish- Ages 19-older Auburn Swim Team- First time team members’ evaluations: May 11, 10am. Team practice: May 13-July 25.

Auburn Diving and Learn to Dive- Ages 7 and up.

Red Cross Lifeguard Certification- May 4-June 2.

Scuba- June 4, 11, 18, 25, July 9. Ages 12 and up.

887-8005.

Float-In-Movies- July 11: Finding Dory.

Friday Night Splash- June 28. 6-8pm. Samford Pool.

Enjoy free swim, games, music, cookout and more. $2.

Back to School Pool Party & Movie- August 3, 9:00am-6:00pm. Free; donation of school supplies.

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425 Perry St, Auburn, AL 36830 Superhero Training Camp- June 3-5. 3:00-5:00pm.

Ages 4-8, Fee: $75. Your heroes will get strong in the gym, build super smarts with science experiments and use art to create superhero identities!

Non-stop, action packed fun for all! (Children are welcome to dress in their favorite Superhero costumes!).

Science Camp- July 15-17. 3:00-5:00pm. Ages 6-10. Fee: $85. Join us for partner science experiments, cool demos and friendly building competitions daily! Action packed fun guaranteed to please your favorite Einstein!

Entomology Camp- May 28-31 and June 17-21.

8:00am-12:00pm. Ages 9-18. Fee: $80 plus materials. A science-based day camp where campers will learn about insects in an outdoor setting. In this five-day outdoor camp, participants will learn to collect, identify and pin insects. Campers also have the option to make their very own insect collection.

The Knight School Chess Academy Summer CampJune 3-7, ages 3-5, meet 9:00am-noon and ages 5-12, meet 1:00-4:00pm. This is a nationwide chess party that coaches over 2500 kids every week!

These extensive chess camps include daily puzzler’s tactics lessons to earn new colorful wristbands tournaments with Mardi Gras beads on the line…if you sign up for the elementary camp, your elementary campers are welcome to come from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. to be an assistant coach for the preschool camp!

Pizza will be provided in the noon – 1 p.m. break!

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www.auburnalabama.org/parks

229 South 8th Street, Opelika, Al 36801 Camps are beginner and intermediate levels.

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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334-203-1989

www.auburnfencing.com

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Road, Opelika, Al 36801 A Day in the Life of...Police Academy, Firefighters Academy, and Power Service Academy. Adventure Day, Boys Night Out, Goofy Games, Kids in the Kitchen, Messy Madness and so much more!

334-705-5560

www.opelikasportsplex.com

Vacation Bible School Trinity Lutheran Church ad on page 37

446 South Gay Street, Auburn, AL 36830 June 9-13, 5:30-8:00pm. ROAR! Life is wild. God is good! Make your VBS the mane event! This epic African adventure engages the whole herd. At Roar, kids explore God’s goodness and celebrate a ferocious faith that powers them through this wild life.

334-887-3901

www.tlcauburn.org

Auburn Church of Christ

712 South College Street, Auburn, Al 36830 June 28-30: Splash Canyon!

334-887-5891

www.auburnchurch.org

Auburn United Methodist Church

137 South Gay Street, Auburn, Al 36830 June 10-13: ROAR! Life is wild. God is good!

334-826-8800

www.aumc.net

First Baptist Church Opelika

301 South 8th Street, Opelika, Al 36801 June 10-13: In the Wild: Amazing Encounters with Jesus 334-745-5715

www.fbcopelika.com

Lakeview Baptist Church

1600 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830 June 17-21: The Incredible Race 334-887-7094

www.lakeviewbaptist.org

Parkway Baptist Church

764 East University Drive, Auburn, Al 36830 June 3-7: In the Wild: Amazing Encounters with Jesus 334-887-3782

www.parkwayauburn.org

Trinity United Methodist Church

800 2nd Avenue, Opelika, Al 36801 June 3-6: ROAR! Life is wild. God is good!

334-745-2632

Allen Orthodontics is pleased to be moving to Moores Mill in Spring 2019. is move will improve our patient experience by accommodating our expanding orthodontic services and technology, greatly increasing space for treatment and allowing easy parking and access to our office for all of our patients. Allen Orthodontics is thrilled to be joining a great mix of signature businesses that will be steps away from our new location.

www.tumcopelika.org

Watersports Lake Eufaula

104 Lakepoint Dr, Eufaula, AL 36027 Picturesque Lakepoint Resort State Park is located on the banks of the 45,000-acre Lake Eufaula, also known as “The Bass Capital of the World.” Lakepoint offers a variety of amenities such as an 18-hole championship golf course, full service restaurant and lounge, marina, hiking trails, modern campground, swimming complex, tennis courts and playgrounds.

334-687-6026 www.lakeeufaula.info/pages/ Lakepoint-State-Park

Lake Martin

Lakeside Marina, Dadeville, Pleasure Point Marina Cabin Rentals, Dadeville, Rentals: cabins, boats, watercraft, tubes, boards and skis.

256-825-9286; 256-825-9400 www.lakesidemarinallc.com www.pleasurepointmarina.com AOP

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FamilyCalendar Friday, April 26 Russell Marine - In Water Boat Show Lake Martin. The Southeast’s largest inland, in-water boat show at the Ridge Marina on beautiful Lake Martin. Over 100 boats on display, come out and take a demo ride in your next boat. 9 AM until 5 PM. www.RussellMarine.net, on facebook or call 256-3971300 for more details. www.russellmarine.com.

Bo Bikes Bama Silent Auction and Dinner Auburn Alumni Center. Join legend Bo Jackson for a silent auction and reception the evening before the 8th annual Bo Bikes Bama charity bike ride. Tickets include hors d’oeuvres, beer, and wine. Browse a silent auction with a variety of sports memorabilia, local items, experiences, and more. Tickets must be purchased in advance and will not be available for sale at the door. Tickets on sale for $100 per person. www.bobikebama.com.

Spring Forest Friends Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Auburn. 9:30 AM. Children will learn from a short lesson, a craft activity, and a nature hike. www.preserve.auburn.edu

Saturday, April 27 Auburn CityFest Kiesel Park. 9 AM - 4 PM. Auburn’s largest free outdoor festival with live music, arts & crafts and fine arts vendors, children’s activities, food, and more! www.auburncityfest.com.

Camp Smile-a-Mile Ride of Love Alexander City. Join us as we welcome bicycle riders on their last leg of the race. They will start their ride in Tuscaloosa and ride to Children’s Harbor to raise money and awareness for the camps held for children and families living with and fighting cancer.

For more information call 256-234-3461.

Weogufka Mule Day 2019 Weogufka Mule day will have plowing demonstrations, Mule and Wagon rides, Log snaking, 3 Big Stages of Music, Hobby train display, Dancers, Food, and Vendors with arts and Crafts. RV campers welcome. 256-249-8885. Event held annually on last Saturday in April.

TroyFest 2019 TroyFest is the premier fine art & craft festival for the central Alabama region. The weekend long show draws upwards of 10,000 people to downtown Troy to celebrate the arts. As always, a wonderful selection of art, food, entertainment and activities will be offered for people of all ages. Come and join us in being a part of this year’s festivities. www.troyfestarts.com.

Russell Marine - In Water Boat Show See April 26 for details.

French and Indian War Encampment Wetumpka. The encampment focuses attention on daily life at a French frontier fort and Creek village in 1756. Living history demonstrations of military, Indian, and civilian life take place throughout the day with re-enactors dressed and equipped as they appeared in North America during the middle of the eighteenth century. www.fttoulousejackson.org Young Eagles Day Columbus Airport, 3250 W. Britt David Road, Columbus, Ga. 8:30-11:30 AM (weather permitting).

All kids ages 8-17 are invited to take a Free airplane ride over Columbus! Most flights last 20 minutes.

The goal is to provide a fun and educational aviation experience. 706-324-2453.

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ZooPaws Atlanta Zoo. Meet your new best friend … right outside the Zoo! Join Zoo Atlanta and the Atlanta Humane Society for our annual pet adoption event.

Come out for a day of fun, kid-friendly activities and a chance to find that perfect addition to your family.

This free event will be held in Grant Park, just steps from the Zoo’s front gates. www.zooatlanta.com.

8th Annual Bo Bikes Bama 2019 Auburn Arena. Bo Bikes Bama has become an annual tradition where Bo and hundreds of others unite to ride to raise money for the Alabama Governor’s Emergency Relief Fund, providing funds to construct community storm shelters and warning sirens throughout the state as well as provide funds. Participating riders can choose either a 60-mile or 20-mile route. Both routes will take riders through the campus of Auburn University, while the 60-mile route will carry riders through Tuskegee and neighboring Macon County. The online registration fees are $65 for the 60-mile ride and $45 for the 20-mile ride. Limited day-of registration is available inside of Auburn Area. Fees increase for day-of registration to $100 for the 60-mile ride and $65 for the 20-mile ride. www.bobikesbama.com.

Jim Flowers Spring Splash James E. Martin Aquatics Center in Auburn. www.auburn.edu Unity Stampede 5K Opelika SportsPlex. A Unique Run with a Great Mission: To strengthen relationships among citizens of all cultures in our community. Proceeds will be used to fund Character Education through the Community Foundation of East Alabama, provide Scholarships for students to Southern Union State Community College and to promote wellness and healthy lifestyles in the community. It is a stampede, so show us your unique outfits! Live Music, Food Vendors and Door Prizes.

Capital City Master Gardeners Annual Plant Sale Frazer United Methodist Church, Montgomery. Plants for sale include: heirloom plants, vegetables, herbs, annuals, perennials, ground covers, trees, shrubs, succulents, shade plants and house plants. Bring the kids for fun children’s gardening activities. Our Master Gardeners will be on hand to answer your gardening questions. www.capcitymga.org Walk for Life The Walk of Life benefits The Joy to Life Foundation, which provides free mammograms and other breast cancer screenings, when necessary, to medically under-served women and men in Alabama. Our 18th annual Walk of Life will celebrate all stages of breast cancer and the people who love them! Please join us as we turn downtown Montgomery PINK! www.events.joytolife.org Chilton County Peach Festival Join in as Chilton County celebrates Alabama peaches. Pageants are held throughout the week, along with the Peach Run, art exhibitions, a cookoff, live music, parades, live and silent auctions, barbecue and much more. Call 205-755-2400 for more information.

Eye Spy Camera Scavenger Hunt FDR State Park, Pine Mountain, GA. Team up for our on-site scavenger hunt with your camera or phone.

Pick up checklist/rules at the park office any time.

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by 4 PM Sat. Winners will be called to pick up prize.

Hunt changes all the time so you can participate all throughout the year.

Reptile Fest Oxbow Meadows, Columbus. Reptile Fest is slithering its way back to Oxbow Meadows as we celebrate all things reptiles and amphibians! Guests at Reptile Fest will get to see a variety of native and non-native cold-blooded critters and participate in other familyfriendly activities. There is also the opportunity to handle several reptiles species.

Symphony on the Sand Callaway Gardens. We are excited to host the Columbus Symphony Orchestra performing under the stars on Robin Lake Beach.

Tickets range from lawn seating to stage-front tables, in addition, custom meal baskets can be ordered. Advance tickets start at $30.www. callawaygardens.com Nature Nuggets at Oxbow Meadows 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM. $3 per participating child.

Perfect program for ages 2-7! Explore the world of nature. www.oxbow.columbusstate.edu/

Sunday, April 28 TroyFest 2019 See April 27 for details.

Russell Marine - In Water Boat Show See April 26 for details.

Jim Flowers Spring Splash See April 27 for details.

French and Indian War Encampment See April 27 for details.

Mother’s Day Brunch The Hotel at Auburn University. Treat Mom to a special brunch in the newly renovated ballroom at The Hotel at Auburn University. Seating times are from 11 AM to 2 PM and reservations can be made by contacting (334) 844-5140.

Wednesday, May 1 May 1-31: National Bike Month A celebration of cycling held every May in the United States, sponsored by the League of American Bicyclists and celebrated in communities from coast-to-coast. National Bike Month is a chance to showcase the many benefits of bicycling and to encourage more folks to giving bicycling a try. As part of National Bike Month, National Bike to Work Week is usually held the third week of May, with Bike to Work Day being on that Friday.

Youth Fishing Derby Talladega National Forest. Encouraging kids to learn the sport of recreational fishing. Call for exact date and hours, 256-362-2909. http://www.fs.usda.gov/ goto/alabama/districts/talladegaRD

Thursday, May 2 Spring Sundown Concert Series Town Creek Park, Auburn. Join us for an evening of music and fun at beautiful Town Creek Park. Bring

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S’more Fun with Mom Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. Lee County’s Mother/Son adventure will be held for two evenings; Thursday and Friday, 6:00 – 8:30 p.m. This fun evening will include a night hike, cookout, s’mores, and storytelling! Our mother/ son duos may also visit a craft station to create their own keepsake art project.

A photographer will be available for a special mother/ son photo. Additional sons are $10. Rain dates are Thursday and Friday, May 9 and 10. Tickets on sale now. Visit www.auburn.edu/preserve or email preserve@auburn.edu for more information.

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Youth Fishing Derby See May 1 for details.

Friday, May 3 S’more Fun with Mom See May 2 for details.

Ceramic Lunch and Learn: Film Fridays Auburn Parks and Rec. Bring a brown bag lunch and join the Dean Road Ceramics Studio for Lunch and Learn Film Friday! Potters, ceramic artists and clay enthusiasts are invited to visit the Jan Dempsey

Community Arts Center to preview instructional films from Ceramic Arts Daily. Each month will feature a new video that will cover a variety of ceramic topics.

This event is FREE and open to the public and complimentary beverages will be provided. ccleckler@auburnalabama.org Spring Plantin’ 2019 Troy. Spring Plantin’ is a celebration of new beginnings and old ways. Enjoy the Museum’s grounds as they come to life with plants, people and animals. Our annual Spring Festival highlights agriculture, planting, historical trades and good, oldfashioned pioneer fun. www.pioneer-museum.org Youth Fishing Derby See May 1 for details.

Saturday, May 4 Spring Plantin’ 2019 See May 3 for details.

Home Depot Kids Workshop First Saturday of every Month 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon, Home Depot offers FREE hands-on workshops designed for children ages 5 – 12. All children get to keep their craft, receive a FREE certificate of achievement, a Workshop Apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last. www.homedepot.com Teen Dungeons & Dragons Opelika Public Library. Our Teen D&D group will begin a new campaign. This is the perfect time to learn how to play and join a fun group. Open to middle school and high school students. No cost. library@opelika-al.gov

Derby Day at the Stables Alexander City. Ladies bring out your hats and guys dig out your seersucker for Derby Day at the Stables.

This annual event is a fundraiser for Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin. Join us for a lot of fun as we cheer on our favorite horses during the “Run For The Roses” and some great food and great music. www.

RussellLandsOnLakeMartin.com, like us on Facebook.

Dino Dig 2019 Montgomery Zoo. Go on an archeological dig and discover bones from the past. Make new discoveries and new friends. Geared for kids 4-10 years old, advanced reservations required. The last day for making reservation will be April 30th. www.montgomeryzoo.com.

The Flimp Festival Montgomery Museum of Fine Art. The MMFA’s annual celebration of imagination, creativity, and good humor. As usual, there will be fun for all ages in the many activities of Flimp! The Flimp Festival is held annually on the first Saturday in May. www.mmfa. org.

Garden in the Park Opelika. Arts and craft festival in the Opelika Municipal Park. 8 AM - 3 PM. Throughout the day, a variety of vendors, children’s activities, and live entertainment will be showcased. All items sold are handmade or homegrown. Children enjoy inflatables, Rocky Brook Rocket rides, planting a tree seedling, Farmer Brown Party Animals and Home Depot building kits. Live entertainment is provided by local schools and dance groups. Delicious food is sold throughout the day. No charge for admissions into Garden in the Park. Food donations will be collected for the East Alabama Food Bank. Rain or shine.

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FamilyCalendar George Washington Carver Commemorative Festival Tuskegee. Downtown on the Square. Annual community co-sponsored event commemorating the life and work of Dr. George Washington Carver with music, arts, crafts and other multi-generational activities. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. 334-727-7798. www. carverfestival.org.

“A Night at the Fair” Annual Fitzgerald Gala Montgomery. You are invited to this year’s annual Fitzgerald Gala! Come dressed in your 20s best and help us celebrate 30 years at the Fitz with a vintagestyle carnival on the lawn! The evening will include food, drinks, a silent auction, carnival games, and even a magician! Step right up and get your picture at the photo booth, or maybe you would prefer to visit the silhouette artist! Why not both? It’s sure to be a great time! The Annual Gala is the museum’s primary fundraiser, and all proceeds from this event will go directly to preservation and restoration of the museum. thefitzgeraldmuseum.networkforgood.com/ events/11323-fitzgerald-museum-gala-tickets Valley Haven Hike/Bike/Run Valley, Al. Events including a 1 or 5 mile hike, a 10, and 20 mile bike ride, and a one mile, 5K or 10.5K run, a Trike & Stroller ride. Participants in the events pay a small registration fee or can just get pledges.

Prizes and t-shirts to participants. Food and children’s activities available. For more information, call Tony Edmondson @ Valley Haven School, Valley, AL 334756-7801. www.valleyhavenschool.org

Thursday, May 9 Spring Sundown Concert Series See May 2 for details.

Discovery Hikes & Nature Walks: Gardening Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, Auburn. 8:30 a.m. preserve@auburn.edu Five Fifty Fifty Run/Walk for Mental Heath Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, Auburn. Be part of our journey to raise awareness and understanding for mental illness in all 50 states in 50 days. This will be a 5k run/walk and will not be timed. All participants will receive a high-quality shirt. The cost of registration is $20 until April 6. From April 7-May 8, registration will be $25. Registration is available on facebook.

Friday, May 10 Summer Movie Series: “Jumanji” Monkey Park, Opelika. 6:30 PM. Yard games and train rides. 8:30 PM Movie. www.opelikaparks.com

Saturday, May 11 Prattville CityFest See May 10 for details.

World Migratory Bird Day Atlanta Zoo. In North and South America, approximately 350 bird species migrate between summer and winter habitats. Their flights span state and national boundaries, migrating between nesting habitats in North American and nonbreeding grounds in Latin America, Mexico, and the Caribbean. Join us here at Zoo Atlanta to learn more about migratory birds.

Chunnenuggee 40th Annual Fair Union Springs. Fine Arts and Crafts festival that is family friendly, with a Food Court including freshly cooked delicious food. The Chunnenuggee Fair also

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has Live Entertainment with local and regional bands that are terrific! We have a section with children’s activities including games, rides and petting zoo. www.chunnenuggeefair.com.

Agape’s 9th Annual Run for a Mom 5K and Fun Run Montgomery. Dedicate your run to your mom or another special woman in your life. The course will begin at the Vaughn Park Church of Christ and continue through the Vaughn Meadows community. www.runforamom.org Mother-Daughter Tea Party Good Ol’ Boys, Auburn. Come enjoy a special mother-daughter tea with all the wonderful things a princess loves! Wear your tea party attire and we’ll save you a seat at a special Disney princess themed table. Make a special craft, enjoy live princess entertainment, and of course…HAVE TEA & REFRESHMENTS! www.goodolboysauburn.com Saturday at Pioneer Park Loachapoka. On the second Saturday of every month, a group of history re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts. Blacksmiths are working at the forge, spinners and weavers are in the textile room, the gardeners are in the gardens, crafts and seasonal activities are scheduled, and someone is always cooking up a meal in the fireplace or outdoors. The Whistle Stop Pickers dulcimer group meets at the Museum at 1 p.m. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org Second Saturday at Columbus Museum 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus. 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM. Free Admission. Drop by the art cart with your children and grandchildren each month to explore various mediums of art, enjoy art related stories, and participate in gallery hunts at the Museum.

Children of all ages are welcome and encouraged to participate. www.columbusmuseum.com Fit to Fight- Silent Auction and 1 Mile Celebration Walk HealthPlus Fitness Center, Auburn. 334.887.5666.

In addition to the Celebration Walk, we will have a Silent Auction, Open House of HealthPlus, Free Skin Cancer Screenings, Free Group Fitness Classes, representatives from The Cancer Center and EAMC Nutrition services, Free Chair Massages, and many other fun activities. The Fit to Fight 1 Mile Celebration Walk will start at 9:00 AM and go around our beautiful pond / outdoor track. Registration will be held at HealthPlus Fitness Center.

Sunday, May 12 Mother’s Day @ Montgomery Zoo Celebrate Mother’s Day at the Montgomery Zoo. All moms receive FREE admission to the Montgomery Zoo and Mann Wildlife Learning Museum. www.montgomeryzoo.com

Monday, May 13 Recycled Teenagers Book Club Opelika Public Library. Monthly book club featuring lively discussions around books chosen by Opelika Library Director, Rosanna McGinnis. Books are provided. vwhite@opelika-al.gov

Tuesday, May 14 Discovery Hikes & Nature Walks: Gardening Kreher Preserve & Nature Center, Auburn. 3:30 PM. preserve@auburn.edu

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Thursday, May 16 Spring Sundown Concert Series See May 2 for details.

RBRM Columbus Civic Center. One of the most legendary groups in pop/R&B history will return to the stage with an explosive new twist: New Edition’s Ronnie DeVoe, Bobby Brown, Ricky Bell and Michael Bivins are joining forces once again. www.civiccenter. columbusga.gov

Friday, May 17 The Auburn Public Library Puppet Troupe 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM. Join the Auburn Public Library Puppet Troupe for shows full of laughs, wonder, and puppets sure to delight every one of all ages! Each show will feature TWO performances for your entertainment.

Saturday, May 18 27th Annual Fishing Rodeo Sponsored by City of Auburn Parks and Recreation, Evans Realty. Lake at Auburn Technology Park South, 7 – 11 a.m.

The first 150 children will receive a FREE rod and reel courtesy of Evans Realty and Auburn Parks and Recreation will supply the bait. Door prizes will be given out to lucky participants and prizes will be awarded to the biggest fish caught in each age category. The cost is $5 per child and can be paid at the event in the form of cash or check. Checks can be made payable to COA. There is a limit of five fish per child and parents must stay with their child at all times.

Science On Saturday Turtle Talk with Stan Arrington. Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. Did you know that Alabama is the state with the most turtles in the whole United States? Learn all about these fascinating reptiles in a 1-hour program. Children’s activities will be available. Admission is $4 for members and $5 for non-members. Children 3 and under are free. 10 AM. www.preserve.auburn.edu.

Dino Dig Education Program Montgomery Zoo. Junior explorers get to experience an archaeological dig, discover bones from the past and have a great time while learning about creatures that roamed the earth millions of years ago. Geared for boys and girls ages 4-10 years old. Dino Dig is a combination educational program packed with a classroom lesson plan, real dig time, live animal presentations, and everyone leaves with a takehome, keepsake goody bag. www.montgomeryzoo.com Cantus Columbus: Say It With Music The Songs of Irving Berlin. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. The professional chorus Cantus Columbus and the distinguished string quartet Vega Quartet present tasteful arrangements of the songs of Irving Berlin (1888–1989). www.rivercenter.org 45th Annual Old Car Show USA Town Center, Opelika. 334.244.1158.

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FamilyCalendar Super Saturdays at LaGrange Art Museum Drop in anytime from 1:00 – 4:00 PM. Join us for a tour of the current exhibit and then explore your creative side with an activity in the Center for Creative Learning classrooms. The program is designed to educate families about the current exhibitions and acquaint them with the world of visual art. www.lagrangeartmuseum.org Summer Book Sale Opelika Public Library. Stock up on summer memories! library@opelika-al.gov

Tuesday, May 21 Auburn Parks and Recreation Monthly Market Fourth Tuesday of each month, visit the Harris Center from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. to find the best produce, jams, jellies and bounty of Lee County!

This event is FREE and open to the public. wmorris@ auburnalabama.org

Friday, May 24 Inaugural Opelika Songwriters Festival Sponsored by The Sound Wall. Enjoy live musical performances this Memorial Day weekend by local, regional, and national songwriters, performing throughout historic downtown Opelika.

The festival will feature 30 songwriters from across the US & Canada offering

over 70 performances. www.opelikasongwritersfestival.com

Memorial Day Weekend at Stone Mountain Park Join us for a special salute to the troops, extended fireworks finale, and the Lasershow with jawdropping fire effects! Marvel as the skies above light up in a specially choreographed musical tribute honoring the brave men and women who protect our country. The special patriotic fireworks finale will immediately follow the Laser show every night (May 24-27). www.stonemountianpark.com 60th Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament Callaway Gardens. Celebrate all weekend with beach activities, live music, kid zones, great food and drink specials, fireworks and so much more!

The event features the best-of-the-best athletes performing thrilling stunts on sparkling Robin Lake all weekend long. The festival-like atmosphere includes a merchandise plaza featuring state-of-the-art watersports equipment, clothing, and demo models. www.masterswaterski.com RXR Fest Alexander City. 6 PM. Bring your cooler, your lawn chair, your pup to Russell Crossroads for the RXR Fest. It’s FREE and you’ll hear great music from local musicians, regional musicians and some national acts may happen, too! Join us on the Town Green at Russell Crossroads. www.russellcrossroads.com Friday Night Movies on the Beach: “The Lion King” Callaway Gardens. Join us every Friday night at Robin Lake Beach for a movie under the stars!

Movies begin at Dusk, typically around 8:30 p.m.

Free with Gardens Admission or Membership OR entry after 5 p.m. $10 per Adult, $5 per Child (ages 6-12). www.callawaygardens.com

Saturday, May 25 Samford Pool, Auburn Opening Day Young Eagles Day Columbus Airport, 3250 W. Britt David Road, Columbus, Ga. 8:30-11:30 AM (weather permitting).

All kids ages 8-17 are invited to take a Free airplane ride over Columbus! Most flights last 20 minutes.

The goal is to provide a fun and educational aviation experience. 706-324-2453.

RXR Fest See May 24 for details. 6 PM. Inaugural Opelika Songwriters Festival See May 24 for details.

60th Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament See May 24 for details.

Memorial Day Weekend at Stone Mountain Park See May 24 for details.

Sunday, May 26 Drake Pool, Auburn Opening Day Saturday Summer Music Series: The Regulars Callaway Gardens. 7:00 PM. Free with Gardens Admission or Membership OR entry after 5 p.m. $10 per Adult, $5 per Child (ages 6-12). www.callawaygardens.com.

Inaugural Opelika Songwriters Festival See May 24 for details.

60th Masters Water Ski & Wakeboard Tournament See May 24 for details.

Memorial Day Weekend at Stone Mountain Park See May 24 for details.

Monday, May 27 Memorial Day Weekend at Stone Mountain Park See May 24 for details.

Tuesday, May 28 APRD Monthly Market Visit the Harris Center from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. to find the best produce, jams, jellies and bounty of Lee County! This event is FREE and open to the public. wmorris@auburnalabama.org

Wednesday, May 29 Summer Reading Kick Off Extravaganza!

Opelika Public Library.

Before or after Noon Tunes, join Cooper Library Staff in kicking off the 2019 Summer Reading Program. We’ll have hot dogs and other snacks for you to enjoy as you register for a summer of fun! 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. library@opelika-al.gov

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REO Speedwagon Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. REO Speedwagon has gone on stage and in the studio to work– dozens of albums, thousands of concerts, and countless radio spins. . www.mpaconline.org/events/

Friday, May 31 Callaghan in Concert at Sundilla Callaghan makes her Sundilla debut. Showtime at the AUUF in Auburn is 7:30. Advance tickets are $15 at Spicer’s Music, World Cup Coffee, and online at sundillamusic.com. Admission at the door is $20.

Free coffee, tea, water and food will be available, and attendees are welcome to bring whatever food or beverage they prefer. www.facebook.com/sundilla

June June 1: Burger Wars 2019 Downtown Opelika. 11 AM - 2 PM. Burger Grilling Competition and Tasting Event. Great food, music, and fun for the whole family. happyhourrotary@ gmail.com June 1: Touch-a-Truck 2019 Downtown Opelika. 9 AM - 12 noon. Vehicles of all types will line the street of downtown Opelika at this fun family event. Kids of all ages can come and explore military vehicles, race cars, dump trucks, and more. Admission is free, and visitors are encouraged to touch and go inside the vehicles. Auburn University’s mascot, Aubie, will even be there to hang out and take pictures. For more info, visit www. facebook.com/TouchTruck June 1: Annual Lion Tamers Day Covington Rec Center, Opelika. 10 AM - 1 PM. A day filled with food, fun and free swim! www.opelikasportsplex.com June 1: National Trails Day Nationally coordinated event designed to unite all muscle-powered trail activities with the goal of connecting more people to trails. www. americanhiking.org June 3, 10, 17, 24: Summer Movie Madness Opelika Public Library. Every Monday, join Cooper Library Children’s Staff for a free movie matinee.

Movie Schedule available on Cooper Library calendar at www. cooperlibrary.com. Popcorn and lemonade provided.

June 4: Summer Swing Concert in the Park Kidd Blue, Monkey Park, Opelika. 7 PM. Free train rides and concession sales begin at 6:15 PM. www.opelikaparks.com June 4 - 5: “Kinky Boots” RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. With songs by pop icon Cyndi Lauper, this joyous musical celebration is about the friendships we discover, and the belief that you can change the world when you change your mind. www.rivercenter.org June 5: Summer Treats Covington Rec Center, Opelika. 3 - 4 PM. Have fun making treats with a Summer theme! www.opelikasportsplex.com June 6: Covington Movie Club: “The Incredibles” 3:30 - 5 PM. Covington Rec Center, Opelika. $3 per child. www.opelikasportsplex.com June 7: SummerNight Downtown Art Walk Downtown Auburn. 5-10 PM. FREE arts festival that transforms downtown Auburn into its very own arts district, featuring the work of local and regional

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FamilyCalendar artists, live musicians, street performers, great food and children’s activities. This year’s event will kick off with a starting line party and parade beginning at Pebble Hill! www.auburnsummernight.org June 7: Girls, Glitz and Glamour 6 - 8 PM. Girls just wanna have fun! Come hang out with the girls and enjoy food, a movie and jewelry making, plus makeovers including hair, makeup and nails! And don’t forget to wear your pjs! www.opelikasportsplex.com June 7-9: Lemonade for S.A.M Fundraiser Benefiting Camp SmileA-Mile Calling all kids!

We want you to host a lemonade stand. Proceeds will benefit Smile-A-Mile ‘s mission to provide hope, healing and love during the childhood cancer journey. How to help…register your stand online, crowdrise.com/ lemonadeforsam - click join, create an account, select create your own team, input your stand’s name and goal, edit the “story” to add when and where your stand will be. Prizes will be given to Most Creative Stand and Most Raised! Contact Tonya Prewett, Tonya@smileamile.com June 8: Denim & Diamonds Concert featuring Old Dominion Columbus Civic Center. 20th Annual event benefiting the Columbus Hospice and Columbus Hospice of Alabama. www.civiccenter.columbusga.gov/ June 8: National Get Outdoors Day June 10: Day in the Life: Police Academy Opelika SportsPlex. Spend the morning with the members of the OPD. This camp is a great opportunity to go behind the scenes. 9:30 AM. Ages: 6-11 $10/child ($11 Non-Resident). www. opelikaparks.com June 11: Day in the Life: Fire Academy 8:30 AM - 2:00 PM. Pick-up and drop-off is at the OFD Training Grounds (Talladega St). Explore the trucks, try on the uniform and hold the hoses.

Prepare to get wet. Lunch and t-shirt are provided.

All participants register by June 3. Ages: 6-12 $10/ child ($11 Non-Resident); www.opelikaparks.com June 11: Summer Swing Concert in the Park Bill J. Brooks, Elvis Lives! See June 4 for more details.

June 12: Day in the Life: Power Services Academy 9:00 AM. Join the members of the Opelika Power Services Dept. as they demonstrate their skills and invite participants to have hands on fun. www.opelikaparks.com June 14: Kids Drive-in Movie: “Boss Baby” Opelika Sportsplex. Ages 4-7. 5:30 PM: Make your car, then at 6:20 PM watch the movie! $5. Boxes, supplies and refreshments provided. www.opelikasportsplex.com June 16: Father’s Day at The Montgomery Zoo Free admission for dads. Join us and help celebrate Father’s Day for all the dads in the world! www.montgomeryzoo.com June 18: Summer Swing Concert in the Park Muse. See June 4 for more details.

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June 19 - 20: “Finding Neverland” RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Tells the incredible story behind one of the world’s most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother.

Spellbound by the boys’ enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. www.rivercenter.org June 20: Palettes & Plants Watercolor Workshop Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. 6 PM. Join local artist Lauren Duncan and learn about local plants from staff at the Kreher Ecology Preserve and then experiment with a variety of watercolor paint techniques. Each student will create a series of 3 watercolor leaf paintings. All materials are provided - bring snacks and drinks! The cost is $60. www. preserve.auburn.edu June 20: Covington Movie Club: “Hotel Transylvania” See June 6 for details.

June 22: Auburn Food & Wine Festival Twenty-One Acres, Auburn. Benefiting the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Lee County, 5-9 p.m. www.auburnfoodandwinefestival.com June 25: Summer Swing Concert in the Park Route 66. See June 4 for more details.

June 26: Leon Majcen & Bryan Elijah Smith The Sound Wall. 7 PM. Come and enjoy some great music from two talented songwriters.

June 21: Float in Movie Opelika SportsPlex. 7:00 PM. Free for SportPlex members and $5 for guests. www.opelikaparks.com June 28: Friday Night Splash Auburn Samford Pool.

June 28: Summer Movie Series: “Coco” Monkey Park, Opelika. 6:30 PM. Yard games and train rides. 8:30 PM Movie. www.opelikaparks.com June 29: Red, White and Blueberry Bash Davis Arboretum, Auburn. 11 AM - 3 PM. Auburn University’s Davis Arboretum will host its first ever Red, White and Blueberry Bash. This delicious event is sure to be fun for everyone! www.auburn.edu/cosam/arboretum June 1 - 9: The Alexander City Sun Festival Sun Festival is a week-long community event of 40+ individual events offering something for every age including children and senior activities, art, exercise, a scavenger hunt and more, all culminating in Jazz Fest weekend. www.alexandercitychamber.com June 3 - 7: Art Gone Wild: Paint-Out Week Zoo Atlanta. Up to 40 incredible artists will be stationed throughout the Zoo creating original works of art inspired by the animals of Zoo Atlanta. Select pieces created here at the Zoo en plein air (in the open air) during Paint-Out Week will be available for purchase during the Art Gone Wild Sale, June 15-16.

June 1-July 20: FSU Flying High Circus Callaway Gardens. Circus performances are free with admission. Seating is general admission. Comprised of talented college students who train and perform as an extracurricular activity, the circus selects its top performers for their stay at Callaway Gardens from early June to late July. During this time, they serve as Summer Family Adventure camp counselors and keep audiences on the edge of their seats with trapeze acts, highwire walks, juggling performances and much more.

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Ongoing/Multiple Dates Friday on the Green May 17, 24, 31, June 7, 14, 21, 28. Alexander City.

Bring the kids and watch them swing or play corn hole, draw on the sidewalks, and just run around.

Bring your pup on a leash. It is one of the best free summertime events around. So grab your cooler and come listen to come great music and have a great time. www.russellcrossroads.com Noon Tunes Courthouse Square, Opelika, 12 noon. www.opelikaparks.com May 1: Larcus Fuller May 8: Murray Brown Band May 15: Martha’s Trouble May 22: Muse May 29: Strawberry Whine Summer Swing Concerts in the Park Monkey Park, Opelika. 7 PM. Free train rides and concession sales begin at 6:15 PM. May 7: OHS Symphonic, Concert and Jazz Bands May 14: Lee-Scott Academy Jazz Band May 21: East Alabama Community Band May 28: Crossroads Market Days on Broadway Apr. 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25. Columbus, 1000 & 1100 blocks of Broadway. 9:00 AM - noon. The Market features over 100 local vendors and local and organic farmers selling produce, along with soap vendors, home goods, jewelry vendors and baked goods. 706.596.0111. Visit the Market Days on Broadway Facebook Page: www.facebook.com/MarketDaysOnBroadway/ Michael’s Kids Club Sign up in store or online, or just drop in. They craft, you shop! Parent or guardian must remain on premises during the event. 10 AM - 12 Noon.

Apr. 27 - Spring Showers Art. Kids 3 and up can enjoy creating spring art on a canvas.

May 4 - Frame for Mom. Kids 3 and up can enjoy creating a Mother’s Day gift.

May 11 - Paper Flower for Mom. Kids 3 and up can enjoy creating spring bouquet for mom.

May 18 - Mama & Baby Birds’ Nest. Kids 3 and up can enjoy creating a sweet bird home.

May 25 - Patriotic Cookies. Kids 3 and up can enjoy creating yummy Memorial Day treats.

Board Game Hangout Apr. 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27. Opelika Public Library.

From Monopoly to Betrayal at the House on the Hill to Sushi Go, Monday is for board games. BYOB (that’s Bring Your Own Board game) or play one of ours. Board Game Hangout is geared towards ages 16 and up. 5:00-7:00 PM. www.opelika.al/gov Baby Time Apr. 30, May 7, 14, 21, 28. Auburn Public Library.

Babies and their favorite adults enjoy 20 minutes of stories, songs, bounces, and tickles during Baby Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! Ages birth-24 months. Tuesdays, 9:30-10:00 AM, 10:0010:30 AM or 1:00-1:30 PM. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Toddler Time May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29. Auburn Public Library. Toddlers and their favorite adults enjoy 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs, movement rhymes, and a fun craft during Toddler Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! Ages 18 months-3 years. 9:3010:00 AM or 10:30-11:00 AM or 1:00-1:30 PM. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Preschool Time May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30. Preschoolers and their favorite adults enjoy 30 minutes of interactive stories, songs, movement rhymes, and a fun craft during Preschool

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Time. Stay afterwards to socialize and play! 3 – 5 years. Wednesdays, 9:30-10:00 AM, 10:30-11:00 AM or 1:00-1:30 PM. www.auburnalabama.org/library.

Story Time Apr. 26, 29, May 3, 6, 10, 13, 17, 20, 24, 27, 31.

Opelika Public Library. Join us for an interactive and engaging preschool program that is sure to delight and entertain. They won’t even know they are learning! Meets Mondays and Fridays. library@ opelika-al.gov.

Summer Story Time May 31, June 7, 14, 21, 28. Opelika Public Library.

The story time you know and love but expanded for Summer! Every Friday in June and July we will have story times for little ones and interactive story games for school age children from Kindergarten through completed 3rd grade. This engaging program is part of our Summer Reading Program schedule and is sure to delight and entertain. 10:00 AM. library@ opelika-al.gov Saturday STEM Storytime Apr. 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25. Auburn Public Library.

Preschoolers - 2nd grade children and their caregivers are invited to join us for a storytime on Saturday mornings that is all about STEM. 10:0011:00 AM. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math This storytime will focus on these concepts in a fun, interactive, story-driven format Please note: Some activities may involve messy fun! (334) 501-3296.

Brick Builders Club Apr. 27, May 4, 11, 18, 25. Opelika Public Library. If you love creating with Lego bricks, then this is the place to be! Open to all ages, but geared towards school-aged children, your creativity will take the spotlight as you build whatever you can imagine.

Lego bricks provided. library@opelika-al.gov.

Gamers Society May 2, 9, 26, 23, 30.

Auburn Public Library.

Thursdays, 4:00 – 5:00 PM. It’s Game On at the Auburn Public Library The Programming Room will be open for Yu-Gi-Oh, Pokemon, and video games Gamers must bring their own materials The library will provide materials for video game play. Games must be rated E, E10, or T; no rated M games. Ages 10-18 years. www.auburnalabama. org/library.

Code Club May 2, 9, 16, 23, 28. Opelika Public Library. Code Club at the Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library is going to teach your kids how to make website, apps, and games in a fun environment. Bring your own laptop if you have one, but it is not required.

Thursdays.

Code Club, Jr. May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29. Opelika Public Library. Code Club at the Lewis Cooper Jr. Memorial Library is going to teach your kids how to make website, apps, and games in a fun environment. Wednesdays, 3:30 PM. library@opelika-al.gov Imagination Lab May 2, 9, 16, 23, 28. Opelika Public Library. The Imagination Lab is for young minds to explore and create. From magnetic circuits making sound to programming a small robot, the lab is waiting for BRAIN power to create a spark! Thursdays, 3:004:00 PM. library@opelika-al.gov

Catfish Press Exchange Through June 16. The Catfish Press Exchange represents the collaborative efforts of thirty-seven printmakers from across the nation invited to contribute to this “exchange folio.” The exhibition of these images at the Jule Collins Smith of Fine Art is a rare opportunity to view examples of distinctive, contemporary printmaking never intended for commercial release. www.facebook.com/JCSMAuburn Florence Neal: Works On Paper Jule Collins Museum of Fine Arts, June 29 - Oct. 20. Auburn University alumna (1976) and New York based artist Florence Neal is the director and co-founder (1990) of Kentler International Drawing Space, a non-profit organization dedicated to bringing to the public contemporary drawings and works on paper by emerging and under-recognized local, national and international artists, and to providing the opportunity to experiment, explore and expand the definition of art in society. She will work on site at the museum to produce a set of mokuhanga prints stemming from selected tree rubbing drawings made at the Donald E. Davis Arboretum. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Chick-fil-A Family Night at Tigertown Every Thursday night.

Callaway Wellness Weekend: Mind Cleanse April 26-28. 11 AM. Weekend Retreats facilitated by owner of IFC, Amy Fendley, leads guests towards immersing in Rest and Relaxation, Soulful Conversations, Personal Intention Setting, Purposeful Journaling, Restful Meditation, Chakra Balancing, Yoga / Yoga Stretch Therapy, Light Exercise, Nutrition discussion, and much more. www. callawaygardens.com Expressions of a BraveHeart Program A fine arts program for teens and young adults with special needs (ages 11–21), sponsored

by Opelika Parks and Recreation, utilizing Auburn University faculty and students, as well as community volunteers. Two 30-minute sessions of art, dance/creative movement and music will be offered and participants will select 2 of the 3 classes. Expressions meets every 2nd and 4th Monday twice a month for 1.5 hours. Opelika Sportsplex, 334.705.5560. www.opelikasportsplex. com.

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.

Children’s Art Studio April 30, May 7, 14, 21, 28 (for ages 6-8 years); May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 (for ages 9-12 years); May 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 (for ages 13+). LaGrange Art Museum.

Get creative while discovering art in the museum’s studios and galleries! Explore the LAM’s collection to experiment with different materials and learn about art concepts. Develop your own art portfolio through studio activities including painting, collage, sculpting, printmaking, and drawing. $65, $60 Member. www. lagrangeartmuseum.org

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Toddler Thursdays April 11, 18, 25. LaGrange Museum. Each class will introduce children to art and the museum through age-appropriate short stories, gallery activities, and an art activity. Toddlers ages 1-2 years and their favorite adult. $60, $55 member www. lagrangeartmuseum.org Saturday at Pioneer Park May 11. Loachapoka. On the second Saturday of every month, a group of history re-enactors gather at the LCHS Museum in period attire to demonstrate their arts and crafts. www.leecountyhistoricalsociety.org Second Saturday at Columbus Museum May 11. 1251 Wynnton Road, Columbus. 10 AM - noon. Free Admission. Drop by the art cart with the kids each month to explore various mediums of art, enjoy art related stories, and participate in gallery hunts at the Museum. Children of all ages are welcome and encouraged to participate. www.columbusmuseum.com Megabugs April - November. Stone Mountain Park. Some colossal crawlers are taking over Stone Mountain Park! Featuring more than 70 new exhibits of larger-than-life insects, MEGABUGS! is an immersive and interactive area for ‘bugologists’ of any age to explore. In a special habitat at the park, guests will come face-to-face with a giant 15-foot Emperor Dragonfly, a 20-foot Hissing Cockroach, a 50-foot Madagascan Fire Millipede, and much more! These exhibits spotlight special features including the individual sounds and movements that make these insects unique members of the animal kingdom. www.stonemountainpark.com

Performances “The Last Round-Up of the Guacamole Queens!”

May 10-12, 16-19. Presented by AACT, this deliciously Southern-fried comedy, the Verdeen cousins of Sweetgum, Texas are up against the clock as they frantically attempt to produce the ultimate high school reunion before the old building is demolished. This gut busting farce will make you laugh so hard, you might consider going to your own class reunion! $12/adults, $10/students and seniors.

Tickets available at AuburnACT.org Million Dollar Quartet May 3-5, 9-12, 16-19. Springer Opera House. This Tony Award-winning musical megahit returns to the Springer for a victory lap on the mainstage with the same dazzling cast that broke box office records in 2017. The show opens on the fateful night of December 4, 1956 when an extraordinary twist of fate brought Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley together at Sun Records in Memphis.

Hit songs include: “Blue Suede Shoes”, “Great Balls of Fire”, “Folsom Prison Blues”, “Hound Dog” and more.

“The Odd Couple, Female Version” May 2-5 and May 9-11. Lafayette Theatre Company. www.lsparts.org “Pride and Prejudice” Through May 5. Presented by Prattville’s Way Off Broadway Theatre. Opens Thursday, April 11, and will be presented Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, April 12-14, April 26-28, and May 3-5. $10 in advance and $12 at the door and can be purchased online at cc.prattvilleal.gov or by contacting the Special Events Office at 334-595-0854.

“Steel Magnolias” Through May 5. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. The hilarious and heartwarming story of six Southern

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FamilyCalendar women who gather and gossip at the local beauty parlor. With wit, warmth, and intelligence, they rise to meet whatever challenges life sends their way. www.asf.net.

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.

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.

Support & Parenting Groups A2Z Local Homeschooler’s Association For homeschooling families in the Auburn/Opelika Lee County area of Alabama. A2Z Loop is an allinclusive 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 334-7058877 x 18 to register or email: Deanna.Hand@thementornetwork.com.

Auburn UMC Children’s Day Out Program Every Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m.–12 noon. $10 per child for the entire morning, $2 each additional child. Attendance will be on a first come-first served basis. Contact Barbara Dawsey at 826-8800 for more information. Auburn United Methodist Church.

Auburn Mommies, a fun group of moms in the Auburn/Opelika area that meet weekly for playgroups and Mommy and Me walking twice a week. We also have a Mommies Night Out once a month. Http://groups.yahoo.com/group/ auburnmommiesinalabama/.

Auburn Mommy and Me Big Dog Running Co, Auburn. 10–11 a.m. Social time, story time, music/movement, arts & crafts.

Ages 9 months–3 years. Free! 334-209-2580.

Auburn/Opelika MOPS & MOMSnext We meet the first and third Thursdays of the month at Trinity United Methodist Church in Opelika. We offer fellowship and fun for moms of kiddos from infancy through age 15. We offer play dates, moms nights out, and special events!

For more information check us out on Facebook at Facebook.com/AuburnOpelikaMOPS or email us at auburnopelikamops@gmail.com.

Bible Study Fellowship Held at Parkway Baptist Church, Thursdays at 10 a.m., (334) 546-1386.

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2019

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 334826-3082; 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.

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.

Grandparents and Non-Parent Relatives or Friends Raising Children Support Group For grandparents or any non-parent involved in raising younger children. Meetings first Monday of every month @ Auburn United Methodist Church Annex, Room D134, 6 - 7 p.m. Various speakers and lots of support from others in your same situation. Childcare is provided. Phone Lisa @ 334-421-7163 or Debra @ 334-332-9703.

La Leche League, a support group for nursing moms, meets the 2nd Thursday of each month at 6:30 p.m. @ Cornerstone Family Chiropractic, Airport Plaza, 323 Airport Road Suite E, Auburn. For more information call LLL of Auburn/Opelika, Leader, Josie Ettinger (h)334257-3950 or (c)334-740-8780.

Lee County 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

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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.

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Miracle League To volunteer or for more information, www.miraclefield. org or eamiracleleague@gmail.com.

MOMS Club of Auburn, a group of stay-at-home moms that meets about twice a week to provide support for each other and fun interaction for kids. New website is www.auburnmoms.com.

MOPS of Auburn We meet the 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month at Auburn United Methodist Church from 9:30 - 11:30.

Childcare is provided, although we ask that you make reservations if possible. Meetings are open to mothers with children ages 5 and under. www.facebook.com/ mopsofauburn mopsofauburn@gmail.com.

Opelika-Auburn Newcomers Club A club for new women in town which offers fun social activities, meets for lunch on the 3rd Thursday of every month. Call Joan at 501-4974.

Parent Educational Workshop - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy. 2nd Tuesday of each month, 6:00-7:30 p.m. at Trinity United Methodist Church, 800 2nd Avenue, Opelika.

Parent Support Group - Autism Lee County Autism Resource and Advocacy meets the 1st Monday (unless national holiday), 9:00-11:00 a.m. and the next evening (Tuesday) from 6-7:30 p.m. Visit www.leecountyautism.com for complete information.

Email info@leecountyautism.com or call 334-740-0716.

Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama Single Moms Outreach of East Alabama offers 2nd Saturdays, group classes, and more. Contact Penny Messer at 334-444-6827. Email smoea@bellsouth.net. www.smoea.vpweb.com or find us on facebook.

Teen Moms (for moms under 20) is a ministry that connects trained adults with pregnant girls and teenage moms. Support meetings, classes, job preparation, devotions and games. Call Laura Fuller at laura@ insideyfc.com or 334-501-5637. www.insideyfc.com.

Therapeutic Foster Care Program Foster a Child’s Future Today - Become a Therapeutic Foster Parent! Certification classes are free. Please call Ms. Shanquetta France at Lee County Youth Development Center’s Therapeutic Foster Care Program. (334) 749-2296, Ext. 1812 - You can make an eternal difference in a child’s life!

Trinity UMC (Opelika) Mom’s Morning Out Wednesdays and Fridays from 8:45–12. $15 per child, $5 each additional. Trinity United Methodist Church.

Sports Auburn University Baseball May 3, 4, 5, 7, 10, 11, 12, 14.

Montgomery Biscuits Baseball April 25-29. May 1-5, 11-15, 22-26, June 2-6.

Columbus Lions May 4, 11, June 1, 29. www.columbuslions.net

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

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ParentingToday’sTeens

by Mark Gregston

Marriage Turmoil Affects Your Teen Marriage is sometimes hard. Anyone who says differently either hasn’t been married, or is selling you something. What I want to remind parents of today is that marriage turmoil doesn’t stay contained between mom and dad. Each member of a family is connected to every other member. That means your conflict with your spouse almost always spills over into the relationship with your teen. Now, I don’t say this to lay a guilt trip on parents who are struggling in their marriage. Nor is this article designed to settle spousal disagreements. But some of the problems your teen is facing now could be the byproduct of the tension, anxiety and worry he feels as mom and dad work on their own relationship. I’d like to show you how to handle marriage conflict well, so that in turn, your teen will learn how to handle turmoil in a healthy way.

Emotional Isolation

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When mom and dad start to drift apart, the family as a whole starts to fragment. As relationships in the house continue to shift and separate, pretty soon everyone becomes their own private island. It’s like having disconnected strangers living under one roof. No one is working as a team. No one is manning the walls and looking out for the family, and so feelings, events, and important moments begin to slip through the cracks.

I asked one young girl in our counseling program how she was doing. It was a simple question and I expected a simple “doing okay” answer. Instead, the young lady proceeded to tell me everything about herself; everything she ever did, everything she ever accomplished, everywhere she had ever traveled and every talent she had. She told me all her hopes and dreams, and all her disappointments and failures in one breathless dissertation. She wanted me to know she is worth something and she pled her case based on her accomplishments.

When she took a breath, I finally got a chance to wedge in a better question that might open a real dialogue. Her demeanor completely changed when I asked, “What’s the most difficult thing that has happened in your life?” Her chattering stopped, her eyes welled up with tears, and she replied, “When my dad left, I felt all alone.”

Suddenly, there was silence. I stood looking at her for a few seconds and instead of trying to come up with the right words to say, I just gave her a hug. Finally, a real connection was made.

Don’t allow emotional isolation to leave your teen feeling all alone.

Physical Isolation

Divorce or separation can definitely lead teens to feel physically isolated. But this can happen when parents are together, as well.

Sometimes it takes the form of dad spending nights and weekends at the office, and away from the family. Or maybe it looks like mom devoting her free moments to various boards, committees and volunteer work, and never being home. We know the devastation divorce can bring on kids.

But being married and always apart can do similar damage.

Just like kids who feel emotionally isolated, kids who feel physically isolated from mom and dad will look elsewhere to fill the void in their lives. They may choose to spend little or no time at home. They’ll be prone to seek a sense of “family” elsewhere, usually with a peer group where it is easy to find acceptance and form attachments. Or your teen may try to imitate mom and dad by throwing themselves into school, sports, video games, friends, or social media in order to experience the feelings only quality time with parents can offer.

Putting It In Perspective

Now let’s look at some positive ways we can help and protect our teens even if our marriage is stormy.

First, understand that your child is affected by your relationship with your spouse. Even

fights behind closed doors aren’t hidden from kids. They can feel the tension and sense the conflict. If you and your spouse aren’t working together and your marriage isn’t strong, your teen will know it—and may try to use it against you. I’ve had parents say to me, “We just can’t see eye to eye.” My reply is, “Then get counseling and fix it.” Don’t let pride keep you from doing what your kid—and your marriage—needs.

You can’t get your marriage, or your family, where you want it to go without guidance and direction from others, and if you don’t stop and ask for help, chances are you’ll end up somewhere you never wanted to be. No one sets out to create a broken family, but without getting counsel and advice from others, you’re likely to create one anyways.

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If your teen sees his parents working through their problems with a counselor, it will give him hope that his situation can be resolved as well. Don’t be afraid to share some of those struggles with him in the context of working toward a solution. Saying “We’re going to remain strong even when don’t agree” gives the child license to feel loved and accepted even in the midst of family conflict.

Second, you’re not in the seventh-grade anymore, so don’t blame your spouse in front of the kids. Your teen doesn’t need to hear why his

mom can be hard to live with, or why her dad is inconsiderate. If you need someone to talk to about the problems in your marriage, find a pastor, counselor or friend. Do not air your dirty laundry in front of your child.

Remember, spending time with your teen confers on them a sense of value that no one else can give. Even in the midst of working on your marriage, make sure to spend regular time with your teen. If you have the freedom to do it, take them to lunch, grab a snack after school, attend all games or school events, and communicate online. Send regular text messages to say “Hi,” or, “I love you.” Make sure your teen knows your desire to be involved in his or her life, or they’ll seek validation from someone else, and that can lead to bigger problems than you ever want to have with your teen.

Lastly, Mom and Dad need to protect their marriage above all else. In fact, it is more

important than just about anything parents can do to help their kids. Parents who have kids approaching the teen years would be wise to prepare ahead of time by ensuring that they are on the same page, and that the foundations of their marriage are strong. Start taking steps today to guard your marriage from the problems that can arise during the teen years. And for parents who are experiencing difficulties with a teen right now, turn your attention toward your marriage first, to begin the healing process.

No marriage is perfect. But the struggles between a husband and wife don’t have to spill over into the lives our teens. Once we realize how interconnected our family relationships are, we can take steps to assure our teens that they are loved, accepted, and valued.

Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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Mia and The White Lion

Missing Link MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: BSir Lionel Frost (Hugh Jackman) is desperate to prove the existence of all manner of fantastic beasts, from mermaids to unicorns, and even the Loch Ness Monster! Frost hopes to use this evidence to earn him entrance to an exclusive club for famous adventurers, “The Optimates Club”. Unfortunately for Frost, his membership is heavily opposed by its leader, Lord Piggot-Dunceb (Stephen Fry), who makes a wager with Frost, guaranteeing admission to the club if he can prove the existence of Bigfoot. As Frost leaves, Lord PiggotDunceb immediately sets out to sabotage him, hiring diminutive hitman Willard Stenk (Timothy Olyphant) to track him down. When Frost finds the Bigfoot, who assumes the name of Susan Link (Zach Galifianakis), Frost makes another deal: he will help Susan find a new home, and in return, Susan will give him some samples to take back to the Optimate Club to prove his existence.

I’ll start with my gripes, since they’re pretty minor. First, the plot is basically just a reworking of Jules Verne’s classic novel, Around the World in 80 Days, but with a lonely Sasquatch replacing Passepartout. Second, the film builds a lot of jokes around Susan’s tendency to take everything literally, which for me, stopped being funny back when Star Trek was doing that with Data.

Otherwise, Missing Link is a fun and surprisingly charming kids’ movie.

The voice cast is superb, and Hugh Jackman is clearly having a blast. While some of the jokes fell a little flat, by being too complex for younger viewers and too dumb for parents, others got laughs from the whole theatre.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: BAlcohol / Drug Use: B+ Eleven-year-old Mia (Daniah DeVilliers) is unhappy. Having grown up in London, she has been homesick since her South African father, John (Langley Kirkwood), moved the whole family back home to run the lion farm he inherited.

Then a miracle occurs and a million-to-one white lion cub is born on their farm.

Everyone is excited – except for Mia. But the Charlie the lion cub has a charming little furry face and they form a powerful bond. As Charlie grows, Mia refuses to acknowledge that he is a wild animal and defies her father’s warnings about the dangers. When John discovers the extent of his daughter’s disobedience and the peril to which she has exposed herself, he decrees the immediate sale of the now grown white lion. Learning about Charlie’s likely fate, fourteen-yearold Mia decides that her only hope is to take Charlie to a nature reserve where he will be free to live in the wild – no matter what it takes.

This film may sound like a heartwarming boy and his dog, girl-and-her-lion story, but there are some very troubling aspects to this production which should give parents pause. Most obvious is Mia’s cavalier attitude towards safety around her adored lion and her constant disobedience and disregard for her own safety. Whether parents want to take their kids to Mia and the White Lion will likely depend on their sympathy with the film’s message. The writers are deeply concerned about the danger lions face from hunters. Unfortunately, the film tries a bit too hard and instead of sharing its message it bludgeons the audience with it. In communications terms, this is overkill.

Penguins

Breakthrough

MPAA Rating: G Overall: A Violence: B Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A Penguins have long been a surefire winner at the box office. Films about these flightless seabirds range from the documentary March of the Penguins to the animated musical comedies like Happy Feet. Disneynature’s Penguins has found the sweet spot between the two. In this kid-friendly and parent-pleasing release, the directors have married documentary-style footage with a comical script to make an educational film that will have audiences laughing out loud.

The story focuses on Steve, a hapless but never hopeless Adélie penguin. Steve is running behind on the annual spring trek from Antarctica’s ice shelf to the rock-strewn mountains where his species mate and raise their chicks. Competition is fierce for the best nesting sites, although what makes any one site more desirable than another is far from obvious to a mere human viewer. Steve struggles to build a nest, getting struck by one penguin and having his carefully gathered rocks stolen by another. But eventually, his nest is complete and he manages to woo and win Adeline, who subsequently lays two eggs. The two penguins then face the arduous task of raising babies in the harshest environment on earth – and that’s just the summer.

Obviously, this film has very little for parents to worry about. There are some scenes of peril where South Polar Skua birds hunt baby penguins and where killer whales prowl the channels of open water seeking prey. And there is a terrifying moment where a leopard seal hunts Steve’s chicks. But the G rating for this movie is well deserved and only the most sensitive of children will find anything upsetting here.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: B+ Sexual Content: A Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: A “You have a purpose. You are loved.” So Joyce Smith (Chrissy Metz) repeatedly tells her moody 14-year-old son, John (Marcel Ruiz). Joyce is concerned about her increasingly uncommunicative teen and then the unthinkable happens – he falls through the lake ice and drowns. John is declared dead, Joyce prays, and John’s pulse miraculously returns. But he is hanging to life by a thread which may snap at any minute. Can John’s family, church, and wider community exercise their faith and call down a miracle from heaven?

Breakthrough has an earnest, multiracial cast, who, despite the fact that they sometimes seem to be reciting lines rather than living them, do so with real sincerity. The movie also takes on the joys and trials of being part of a church congregation and portrays the petty conflicts that can arise when wellmeaning people irritate each other as well as the wonderful acts of kindness and support that a faith community can provide. And the film is almost entirely free of objectionable content.

Unfortunately, Breakthrough also has some significant near misses.

Watching Joyce, viewers may be driven to wonder where the line is between steadfast faith and delusional determination. Is Joyce faith-filled or irrational?

Is her faith based in God’s will or her preferred outcome? And it’s a real disappointment that the script doesn’t go deeper here. Criticisms aside, Christians (or non-believers) who are grappling with feelings of divine abandonment, loss or doubt may feel that the movie isn’t able to break through their pain to provide the inspiration and comfort they seek.

Auburn Opelika Parents I May 2019

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