Auburn-Opelika Parents - Feb 2022

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Volume 12 Number 12

Columns 5

Kids Say the Wisest Things Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

Tweens, Teens & Screens Why boundaries are so important with your child’s devices.

Are You a Fitness Role Model?

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Kids Health Watch

Why it matters for your kids!

sponsored by Cornerstone Family Chiropractic

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20 Tweens, Teens and

Screens

Kristi Bush, LSW

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Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Healthy Kids Guide

Local resources to keep kids fit and healthy...mind and body.

Your Fitness Journey Success depends largely on following these three steps!

Departments 6

Bits and Pieces

On The Cover Seth Roarke is a senior at Lee-Scott Academy. His parents are Jeff and Stephanie Roarke and he has an older brother, Stanford. Seth attends First Baptist Church of Opelika. He is currently trying to decide on his next steps, but will likely attend Samford University or Auburn University in the fall. Seth plans to study business and eventually work with his father at J. Roarke Plumbing Company.

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School Bits 32

Family Calendar

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Publisher’sNote What is wellness? In simple terms, it is a state of being in good health and is actively pursued as a goal.

In this day and time, it seems we are all hyper focused on being healthy and staying well. No matter where you are, you’ll find an abundance of hand sanitizer and reminders to protect yourself and others from illness.

In our home, we strive to stay as healthy as possible by washing our hands often, taking our vitamins and supplements, and by choosing healthy food options.

Also, staying active is key. What goals have you made toward better wellness for your family this year? It can be overwhelming to make a health plan and to find the right community resources that can support your goals.

This month’s edition features all things health and wellness. From fitness goals and health check-ups to active fun and nutrition, we’ve got you covered. Check out our guide to see what our area has to offer families making health and wellness a 2022 goal. Both Auburn and Opelika have an amazing Parks and Recreation department that provides invaluable opportunities for everyone in the family. With fitness facilities, family recreation courts and a variety of classes and programs to choose from, there is something for everyone in the family.

They offer team sports for your athletic daughter, group fitness classes for mom, workout equipment for dad, and gaming rooms for your die-hard gamer. Take a tour of their state of the art facilities and sign up for some active, family fun. Does your family prefer outdoor exercise? East Alabama has some of the most beautiful green spaces and walking trails. Plan an outing to Chewacla Park for a day in nature. Or, spend an afternoon walking the dog at Kiesel Park. Your family can get some fresh air, exercise and a mental reboot for the upcoming week. In our feature article, How To Be A Fitness Role Model To Your Kids, the author points out that regular exercise can reduce stress and anxiety. Exercise releases endorphins that help make us feel happier and can reduce the feelings of stress. Making exercise a part of your weekly routine can have an overall positive effect for your family. Get outdoors, breathe and recharge.

Also, when thinking about wellness, it’s important to make health check-ups a priority. For our family, when the new year arrives, it is time to make plans for dental and doctor appointments. I know it can be hard to work those into an already busy enough schedule, but you will thank yourself later for having made the time. Some doctors offer services for the whole family and can schedule everyone on the same day. Ask about late afternoon appointments or even weekend availability. You might find the appointment that coordinates your family’s needs and may even keep everyone from missing work hours or school classes.

Health and overall wellness are great goals for 2022. Start small and add to them as you go. It could be a weekly nature walk and three healthy dinners at home. Or, a monthly family activity like bowling or rock climbing. Purposeful wellness planning is the first step!

Kendra kendra@auburnopelikaparents.com

Auburn Opelika Parents I February 2022

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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 Kristi Bush, LSW Dr. Jordan Jensen Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA Pam Moore Dave Ramsey Sandi Schwartz

Cover Photography Keightley Garnett Simple Joy Photography www.simplejoyphoto.com

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

Visit us online at www.auburnopelikaparents.com Auburn-Opelika Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: 475 Bennington Ct, Auburn, Alabama, 36830. The phone number is (334) 329-8073 and fax is (334) 826-7303.

Auburn-Opelika Parents is copyrighted 2022 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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by Beth Long, PhD, LPC, BCBA

“Who Made Communication So Hard?” (Part 2: Ages 7-10) “Who made communication so hard?”

Such a wise question from a child. I simply responded, “Everyone sweet girl, everyone.”

Last month, I wrote about how to communicate effectively with children from birth through age 6. This month we will explore how to best communicate with children 7 through 10 years of age.

If I could define this age in one word it would “explorers”.

The ability to solve problems, comprehend cause and effect, and take responsibility for their actions emerge in this stage of life. These children are fully excited by the world around them and want to experience all of it.

The primary role of parents in this stage is to “encourage”. It is vital for you to encourage (without judgement) their exploration of interests, friends, and extra-curricular activities.

Sadly, the emotional immaturity and sensitivity at this age too often leave children feeling discouraged. I hope these four simple rules will help you as you navigate this tight rope.

First, watch your body language. Make sure you are affirming with your face, body, and words. When possible, look at your child when they are talking to you and give her all of your attention. Make sure you devote a portion of each day to this. Most parents do this at bedtime, but find what works best for you and your family.

Second, show empathy.

Empathy is when you put yourself in another person’s shoes. Remind yourself what it was like to be 8 years old. When your parents would not let play outside after dark or forced you to visit family instead of going to your best friend’s birthday party. You can empathize with your child’s frustration without giving into it. One of the best ways to empathize is to tell your child a story from your own childhood so they know they are not alone.

Third, delay correction. Resist the urge to resolve the situation and let your child present possible solutions. You will be pleasantly surprised by some of his solutions. Also, you will be meeting your child right where he is developing new skills.

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Fourth, avoid shaming language at all costs. When people feel shame, they believe they are inherently broken. Be careful to address your child’s behavior without attacking her as a person. Instead of, “You are so clumsy!” when your child spills her drink say, “You need to be more careful carrying your drink.” It is also essential for parents to not shame others. For example, if you see a man yelling at a cashier, talk to your children about how he is handling his anger inappropriately instead of simply saying, “He is a really mean man.”

My favorite way to communicate challenging lessons effectively with children at this stage is through stories. Intentionally watch movies, read books, and discuss people who overcame difficult situations and failures. Especially if you can find a story that relates to specific areas where your child needs to grow as a person. Stories of other people allow children to learn while bypassing their emotional sensitivities and insecurities. The most important thing to remember is that you cannot stop being their biggest cheerleader when they become discouraged.

You can always find something to brag about.

If your child is the least athletic person on the field, brag about him being the nicest in the dugout. If your child falls at the dance recital, reward her for getting up and trying again.

Do whatever you can to constantly encourage them to continue exploring.

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst.

Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com.

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Soledad Barrio and Noche Flamenca

Mother Son Blue Jean Ball Sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation on February 11-12 at the Covington Rec Center.

6:00-8:00 PM. Mothers and sons of all ages, come and have a fun, relaxing night out! $30 couple/$10 each additional son. Registration required by Feb 4. Ticket includes a meal, corsage, boutonniere, and entertainment. www.opelika-al.gov

The Gogue Center for the Performing Arts, February 10, 7:30 PM. Formed in 1993 by Martín Santangelo and his Bessie award-winning wife, Soledad Barrio, Noche Flamenca has been hailed by critics everywhere for its transcendent and deeply emotional performances. Noche Flamenca presents the essence, purity and integrity of one of the world’s most complex and mysterious art forms without the use of tricks or gimmicks. Noche Flamenca performs regularly at noted venues in New York City, including Lincoln Center and the Joyce Theater, and tours extensively across North America, Europe, South America, Asia and Australia. In song, music and dance that express a rigorous, spellbinding aesthetic, Noche Flamenca creates a diverse theatrical body of performance that exceeds the highest artistic expectations. Through its live performances, the company captivates audiences and evokes in them the vivid sea of passion and intensity that is flamenco.. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

Syncopated Ladies

The Arts Association of East Alabama presents Syncopated Ladies on February 28, 7:30 9:30 PM at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. Syncopated Ladies is an all-female Tap company that is widely known for viral videos that have accumulated over 50 million views. The most successful being their tribute to Prince and their cover of Beyoncé’s Formation, which Beyoncé shared on all of her social media and then hired Chloé and the Syncopated Ladies to perform at her Ivy Park activewear clothing line launch at TopShop, London. Chloé along with her company performed live on ABC's Good Morning America and have had sold-out concerts in Los Angeles, Dubai, New York City, and Washington, DC, receiving rave reviews in The New York Times and more. www.eastalabamaarts.org

Valentine’s Day Hike: February 12-14

Yamato: The Drummers of Japan

Join the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center for their annual Valentine’s Day Hike. Celebrate Valentine's with your one true love this year: nature! Fall in love with the Kreher Preserve all over again at this self-led hike through some of the most beautiful scenic spots. Enjoy the hike alone or with a loved one, through our trails with several 'lovely' stops along the way.

This event is free – no reservations are needed, just come out and enjoy! wp.auburn.edu/preserve

Presented by Gogue Performing Arts Center, February 25 Yamato was founded

by Masa Ogawa in 1993 in Nara—the land of Yamato, which is said to be the birthplace of Japanese culture.

Presently based in Asuka Village, Nara Prefecture, Yamato travels all over the world with Japan’s traditional Wadaiko drums, putting its very souls into the unusual instruments, whose sound stirs the hearts of people everywhere. In the village of Asuka, a place with more than a thousand years of history and culture, Yamato seeks new expression with Wadaiko as its backbone. They think of the sound of the drums—made of animal skin and ancient trees, some of which are more than 400 years old—as a pulse or heartbeat (Shinon), the center of life and the source of power that pulsates within the human body. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu Auburn Opelika Parents I February 2022

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Look Forward: The Ruby Bridges Story

Presented by the Springer Children’s Theatre Series at Springer Opera House in Columbus, Georgia, February 18-27.

This is a true story of the extraordinary 6-year-old who helped shape history when she became the very first African-American sent to first grade in an all-white school--changing America forever. Set in New Orleans in 1960, Ruby eventually befriends students and teachers and lives out a faith that tells her to stand firm. Look at the world through Ruby’s eyes and discover the true promise of America. www.springeroperahouse.org

Daddy Daughter Dance Sponsored by Opelika Parks and Recreation

Film and Artist Talk with Elizabeth Webb

Join Jule Collins Smith Museum, February 10, 6:00 PM, for a screening of “For Paradise” with the artist, Elizabeth Webb.

She will be joined in conversation by Elijah Gaddis, assistant professor, Department of History. Elizabeth M. Webb is an artist and filmmaker originally from Charlottesville, VA, and her work is invested in issues surrounding race and identity, often using the lens of her own family history of migration and racial passing to explore larger, systemic constructs. www.jcsm.auburn.edu

Daddy Daughter Date Nights Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation

Join the Opelika Sportsplex on February 11 and 12 for a night of dancing and fun! The event will be at the Opelika Sportsplex from 6:00-8:00 PM. $30 per couple/$10 additional daughter. Registration required

by Feb 7. Tickets include meal, corsage, boutonniere, and entertainment. www.opelika-al.gov

Join us, February 11 and 12 for our 32nd Annual Daddy Daughter Date Night. The event will be hosted at the Auburn Junior High School Fieldhouse from 6:30-9 PM each night. This year's theme is CONFIDANCE and will feature neon, black and white color scheme! Come and dance the night away with your father figure. Enjoy music, food, dancing, have your photo taken, and visit with special guests. For more information contact Elizabeth Kaufman at 334-501-2939 or www.auburnalabama.org/parks

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Cornerstone Family Chiropractic

“Fix Me, Doc, I’m Hurting!”

“Fix me, doc; I’m hurting!” A sentiment I hear regularly in the office, and I oblige to the best of my ability. More often than not, our practice members will start feeling improvement right then and there. “Thanks, doc! I don’t know what I’d do without you.”

There are cases where the relief is not instantaneous. It may take several visits to notice a positive change. One practice member we had dealt with a hip issue for years. One adjustment didn’t cut it. It took several visits over a few weeks and a couple different approaches to start seeing the hip get more permanent improvement.

There is another practice member we had who dealt with a similar hip issue, but this time, it took nearly six months of visits before any improvement was noted. For two similar practice members having nearly identical problems, why would the healing cycle take longer for one than the other? Or maybe a better question would be what improves our chances of seeing quicker improvement?

There are things within our control that put us in a good position to adapt and recover from an injury, prevent complications, and better manage painful situations, and none of these things are foreign. Regular exercise, healthy nutrition, getting plenty of sleep and avoiding excess vices all weigh

Auburn Opelika Parents I February 2022

into the how our bodies operate and respond to outside stressors. Ignoring these balances over an extended period of time can lead to a number of diseases with lots complexity to them, or chronic diseases.

Chronic diseases are on the rise in the United States. According to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, six in every ten Americans have a chronic disease, such as heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, or arthritis. The worry of this uprise in cases is how it can complicate healthcare and its ever-increasing cost to do so. The most common chronic disease a chiropractic office will see is degenerative disc disease.

When a biomechanical stressor, often the result of some kind of trauma or repeated movement of the spine, is left unaddressed, that stress starts reshaping the bone and its joints to that stress. This permanently changes the bone’s anatomy and can complicate chiropractic care for a practice member, whether by reducing movement or compromising the nervous system, the region of the body that controls the function of all the other body systems.

Have you ever had some kind of back pain that you never got evaluated? Maybe the pain went away and you didn’t think twice about it. Maybe it’s a small thing,

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whether a simple fall on the ground or bumping into something, and you decide to tough it out. These are the red flags to consider getting evaluated by a chiropractor. Chiropractors utilize advanced tools such as sEMG to measure the function of the nervous system along the spine and digital x-ray to evaluate the spine’s structural condition when determining if someone could benefit from chiropractic care.

Being proactive is the key. Catching imbalances or problems early reduces the chance of complications developing. Where healthcare gets costly is where healthcare is complicated. People with chronic diseases can certainly improve and get better, but it is a path that is better avoided to save both money and time.

Dr. Jordan Jensen earned his Bachleor’s Degree in Biomedical Sciences at Auburn University in 2013 and earned his Doctor of Chiropractic at Palmer College of Chiropractic in 2018. Following graduation, Dr. Jensen was accepted into the International Chiropractic Association’s Diplomate of Craniocervical Procedures postgraduate program, where his research encompasses Chiropractic’s application of advanced imaging and patient outcomes.

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Autauga County Schools

ACS Teachers of the Year

Auburn City Schools has selected the 2022-2023 Elementary and Secondary Teachers of the Year!

Administrators from the Central Office coordinated with principals to make the surprise announcements for both system level winners.

ACS is proud to have Coach Reginald Smith, from Yarbrough, representing the Elementary level and representing the Secondary level, Auburn Junior High’s Kristen Ferrell!

These two outstanding educators will go on to compete with other educators from Alabama State Board of Education’s District 2, with hopes of making the Sweet 16 and beyond at the state level of the competition.

Two Lee-Scott Students Named to All-State Football Team Congratulations to Lee-Scott Academy senior Jackson Earnhart for being named to the Alabama Sports Writer’s Association 2021 All-State Football Team as a 1st Team Offensive Lineman. Junior Dalan Bush received Honorable Mention honors as a linebacker. We are so proud of you!

Tri-M Music Honor Society Benefit Concert

The inaugural Tri-M Music Honor Society Benefit Concert was a huge success! Twenty different acts performed, showcasing a wide range of musical talent by Auburn High School band members and choir students.

More than $400 in monetary donations and approximately 160 toys, books, and board games were collected at the door for the 2021 Auburn Toy Drive. This event was conceptualized and facilitated entirely by ACS student members of the Tri-M. The Tri-M Music Honor Society is a service-based organization at Auburn High School that incorporates music with community outreach. This group conducts student outreach at local elementary schools and East Samford School throughout the school year through pep rallies and music clinics.

They also donate countless volunteer hours to the Auburn Band Parents Association and band events hosted by Auburn High School. Last February, Tri-M raised 996 pounds in the East Alabama Food Bank donations.

ACS is proud of Tri-M's efforts to give back to Auburn in the four years since the Chapter was formed by their sponsor, Deanna Marshall!

Lee-Scott PK-6 Presents Christmas Musical

What an incredibly special morning on campus at Lee-Scott Academy as our students in grades PK - 6 presented their Christmas musical as a part of Grandparents Day for their families and friends.

Thank you to Dr. Mary Anna Martin-Smith, Mrs. Allyson Petrone, our students, our faculty and staff, and parents for their support and involvement in the program.

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Trinity Christian School

We hope all our families had a wonderful Christmas break!

And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we have seen His glory, glory as of the only Son from the Father, full of grace and truth. John 1:14

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Distinguished Young Woman of Alabama to Be Named

High school senior girls from across Alabama will join together for the Distinguished Young Women of Alabama program to be held January 21-22 in Montgomery. Participants will compete for college scholarships (over $32,000) and the opportunity to represent the state as the Distinguished Young Woman of AL for 2022.

Anslee Tatum, high school senior at Auburn High School, will represent Lee County as the 2022 participant in the competition. Anslee will compete in all categories and for the talent portion will sing “Somewhere Over the Rainbow.”

The young women competing will be evaluated by a panel of five judges in the following categories: Scholastics (25%), Interview (25%), Talent (20%), Fitness (15%), and Self-Expression (15%). The participant selected as the Distinguished Young Woman of AL will advance to the national level at the 64th Distinguished Young Women National Finals in Mobile in June 2022 where she will join with 50 other representatives from across the country in competing for cash scholarships and the opportunity to represent the program as the Distinguished Young Woman of America.

Our local Lee County 2021 winner, Mary Helen Miller, won the statewide competition and will be awarding the new winner with the Alabama DYW medallion.

The upcoming Lee County DYW program will be held June 11, 2022. An informational meeting will be held on Feb. 8th at 6 PM at the Auburn Area Chamber. Participants, rising senior women, interested should attend for more information. Donations for the scholarship program can be submitted to Lee County DYW for the upcoming year. http://al.distinguishedyw.org/ Pictured Anslee Tatum with parents Crawford and Charmoin Tatum, sister Leila Tatum.

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Autauga County Schools Meet Our Newest Principal at National Signing Day 2021 Woodland Pines ES at Auburn High School

Auburn High School had four student-athletes recently sign their National Letters of Intent to further their education and play football at the next level!

Molik Mason, a 6’6” 280-pound offensive tackle, signed with Campbell University. Eston Harris, a 6’6” 290-pound offensive tackle, signed with Auburn University. Drew Bobo, a 6’5” 300-pound offensive tackle, signed with the University of Georgia.

Powell Gordon, a 6’3” 215-pound linebacker, signed with Auburn University. Under the leadership of Coach Keith Etheredge, these seniors finished their high school careers in the 2021 AHSAA Class 7A Final Four with a 10-3 overall record.

Auburn City Schools wishes these young men all the best as they go on to represent our community at the next level!

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Tonya Nolen was approved by the Board of Education on December 14th to be the Principal at Woodland Pines Elementary School when it opens in August 2022!

Mrs. Nolen has more than 25 years of experience working in education. Her career began in Montgomery Public Schools as a first and second-grade teacher, both in general and special education classrooms. She holds a Bachelor's Degree in Elementary Education from the University of South Alabama, a Master’s in Education (Special Education and Elementary Education) from Auburn University at Montgomery, and a Certification in Instructional Leadership from Auburn University.

She and her family moved to Auburn in 2010, where she taught first grade at Wrights Mill Road Elementary (WMR) and Dean Road Elementary School (DRES) for four years before becoming a Title I teacher at DRES for two years. Mrs. Nolen is currently in her fifth school year as the Assistant Principal at DRES, where she has attended and led numerous professional development sessions focused on improving student achievement.

Auburn City Schools is excited to introduce Mary Tonya Nolen as the Principal of Woodland Pines!

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Opelika HS Football Signings

Congratulations to OHS Senior Jarell Stinson on signing a football scholarship to The University of Mississippi!

Big Win For Lee-Scott Boys Basketball

Congratulations to the Lee-Scott Academy Varsity Boys Basketball team for defeating Chambers Academy 67-50 to win the Ft. Dale Christmas Tournament!

Eighth grader Haiden Harper and juniors Alex Cash and Joseph Horne were named to the All-Tournament Team. Go Warriors!

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Congratulations to OHS Senior Taylor Love on signing a football scholarship to Tulane University!

Lee-Scott Class Learns About Amazon Rainforest

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Mrs. Hanson’s First Grade enrichment group at Lee-Scott Academy has been researching all about the Amazon Rainforest. The students had to make books based on their research. They studied about the Spider Monkey, which lives in the Emergent Layer

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The path to

MENDING HER

HEART

was actually through her leg.

Olivia was born with a congenital heart defect requiring open heart surgery at 3 months old. She also required a second surgery as a teen to replace her pulmonary valve – but this time they went through a vein in her leg to insert the Harmony Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve in her heart. This less-invasive path to replacement shortened her recovery time, and she went home the next day.

Olivia was the first pediatric patient in the southeast to receive the Harmony valve, and it was here at Children’s of Alabama.

Olivia

To learn more visit ChildrensAL.org/heart

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Autauga County Schools AHS Girls’ Cross-Country Team Recognized at City Council Meeting The 2021 Auburn High School Girl’s Cross-Country Team was recognized for their recent AHSAA State Championship during the Auburn City Council meeting.

Coach Olivia Tofani’s team secured their fifth Blue Map trophy in a row on Nov. 6, 2021, in Danville, Alabama by outpacing Vestavia Hills with a 12-point lead!

Please send school news to: Kendra@ auburnopelikaparents.com!

AHS Building Construction Teacher Recognized at State Board of Education Meeting

Auburn High School’s Building Construction teacher, Jessica Bowlin, was celebrated by State Superintendent Dr. Eric Mackey during the December State Board of Education meeting in Montgomery! Back in October, Bowlin was the recipient of a $50,000 grant from the Harbor Freight Tools for Schools program. During her recognition, Bowlin spoke about the process of obtaining the grant money, as well as the Tiny House that was built by her students on Auburn High’s campus and her involvement in Habitat for Humanity.ACS congratulates Mrs. Bowlin again on all her hard work and representing Auburn at the state level!

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

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Susan & Larry Hooks, Owners & Directors Donna Bares, Assistant Director

800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com

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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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ACS Students’ Artwork Competes in State Exhibit

Twenty pieces of art by Auburn City Schools students are being sent to compete in the 2022 State Superintendent’s Visual Art (SSVA) Exhibit!

In the first quarter of each year, ACS participates in the SSVA with the mission of showcasing and celebrating our students’ amazing artistic abilities.

This is a statewide competition that typically has approximately 800 submissions from more than 40 school districts in Alabama.

The annual SSVA Exhibit will be held in February and March 2022. The SSVA Secondary Division Exhibit will be February 5-25, 2022, and the SSVA Elementary Division Exhibit will be March 4-25, 2022. The exhibits of student artwork will be on public display in the Old Supreme Court Library of the Alabama State Capitol. An awards ceremony and reception will occur for all Best of Show, First Place, Second Place, Third Place, and Honorable Mention winners and their visual arts instructors. Winning students and their visual arts instructors will be honored on March 9, 2022, at the Alabama Shakespeare Festival in Montgomery. This competition is sponsored by the Alabama State Department of Education (ALSDE) and Alabama Arts License Tag Grant.

ACS wishes all local winners the best of luck at the next level!

Photo pictured: "Garden Bubbles" Artist: Kenadie Claxton, 3rd grade

African-American History at AJHS

Students from Auburn Junior High School shared presentations on our community's rich African American history! These students are members of the Friends of Baptist Hill Club at AJHS, sponsored by World History teacher Logan Shaddix. This public event was the culmination of their efforts with Dr. Richard Bubb and the College of Human Sciences at Auburn University. Dr. Bubb and his students have been working with the club every week this semester to research and record historical events connected to the Baptist Hill Cemetery in Auburn.

They even recently held a cleanup day for the cemetery, where they learned how to polish headstones properly. They also planted American flags on the graves of veterans, with some dating back as far as the Civil War. In addition to sharing local history, these AJHS students donated toys to the Auburn Toy Drive, which was started in the 1970s by John W. Dunn, Auburn Police Department's first full-time African American police officer.

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Autauga County Schools

Lee-Scott Students Treat Azalea Place Residents with Gift Bags

Lee-Scott Academy fourth graders opted out of their traditional gift exchange at their Christmas party and instead adopted the residents of Azalea Place providing them with gift bags full of items collected and assembled by the students. Thank you to Azalea Place for allowing our students to visit and present these gifts to their residents.

St. Michael Catholic Preschool Presents Living Nativity

We finished up our first semester with our living nativity. We welcomed parents and grandparents to see our school create this beautiful scene.

AHS Girls’ Cross-Country Team Recognized at Board of Education Meeting

During the December 2021 Board of Education meeting, Auburn City Schools celebrated the Girl’s Cross-Country team for their recent State Championship!

Auburn High Girl’s Cross-Country team won the 2021 AHSSA Class 7A State Championship for the fifth year in a row on Nov. 6, 2021, in Danville, Alabama. Rylee Plexico and Olivia Tole raced to top-10 finishes to secure another Blue Map trophy for Auburn High School.

Plexico, an eighth-grader, finished fifth in 18:52.95. Tole finished just behind her in sixth in 18:57.48. Eva McGowan finished in 11th place to boost Auburn High’s scoring. After her, Mary Elizabeth Hadley finished 12th, and Linnea Cox finished 29th.

Their collective team score was 68, 12 points better than Vestavia Hills, finishing second with 80 team points. Following Auburn High’s top five, Audrey Erath came in 34th place, Myla Ragan 46th, Stella Stewart 51st, Lessye Gray 55th, and June Milford 69th. Olivia Tofani coaches the Girl’s Cross-Country, and the program has won the state championship as a team every season since 2017!

Lee-Scott Girls Basketball Team Wins Ft. Dale Christmas Tournament

Congratulations to the Lee-Scott Academy Varsity Girls Basketball team for defeating Ft. Dale Academy 60-33 to win the Ft. Dale Christmas Tournament! Sophomore Madison Davis and seniors Sterling Tucker and Emma Frances Zellner were named to the All-Tournament Team. Go Warriors!

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Autauga County Schools Auburn High School Senior to Serve in Washington

The United States Senate Youth Program (USSYP) announces that high school students Ms. Maren Lee Fagan and Ms. Clara Rose Ragan will join Senator Richard C. Shelby and Senator Tommy Tuberville in representing Alabama during the 60th annual USSYP Washington Week, to be held March 6 — 9, 2022. Maren Fagan of Daphne and Clara Ragan of Auburn were selected from among the state’s top student leaders to be part of the 104 national student delegation who will each also receive a $10,000 college scholarship for undergraduate study.

Clara Ragan, a senior at Auburn High School, serves as president of the Diversity Council. Additionally, she serves as a Student Council representative, the Science Olympiad team captain and marching band section leader.

She secured internship positions with the Lee County District Attorney’s Office and with the Alabama Circuit Court, and plans to attend Vanderbilt University as a political science and business major. Upon graduation from college, she hopes to attend law school. Clara’s ultimate goal is to join the government as a judge or Congressional representative.

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Lee-Scott Academy Open House

Thank you to our Lee-Scott Academy Ambassadors for serving at Open House tonight on campus! We are so excited about the families who visited and toured the school interested in learning more about our people and programs for the 2022-2023 school year.

Please send school news to: Kendra@uburnopelikaparents.com.

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Trinity Christian School Partners With Parents

ALABAMA DANCE THEATRE PRESENTS

At Trinity, we are so grateful to PARTNER with parents of our community in educating their children in the discipline and admonition of the Lord by providing a secure Christian environment of classical academic excellence. We value our parent ViP’s (Volunteers in Partnership) that assist in all of our programming!

You shall teach them diligently to your children, and shall talk of them when you sit in your house, and when you walk by the way, and when you lie down, and when you rise.

Deuteronomy 6:7

Friday, March 4, 7:00 PM Saturday, March 5, 2:00 PM Sunday, March 6, 2:00 PM

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TROY UNIVERSITY’S DAVIS THEATRE

TICKETS: alabamadancetheatre.com / INFO: 334.625.2590 This performance is made possible by a grant from the Alabama State Council on the Arts and the National Endowment for the Arts.

Character in Action

Yesterday, Lee County Family Court Judge Mike Fellows honored four Auburn City Schools students with Character In Action awards!

Halynn Lim, a second-grader at Cary Woods Elementary School, was recognized for assisting a classmate.

Irene Oh, a fifth-grader at Yarbrough Elementary, was recognized for going above and beyond to make everyone feel included.

Gus Parsons, a fifth-grader at Wrights Mill Road Elementary School, was recognized for his diligence.

Harrison Neal, a fifth-grader at Wrights Mill Road Elementary School, was recognized for seeking opportunities to help others.

VISIT ON WALK-IN WEDNESDAY 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. when school is in session

2020 Kay Circle Columbus, GA 31907 706-561-8232 19

Our students learn in a safe, supportive environment where they can develop relationships with others and with God.

BeAViking.com www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Why Boundaries Are So Important with Devices As I travel across the country speaking, I have the wonderful pleasure of getting to know many parents and teachers.

One of the things I have always found so interesting is a teacher’s use of boundaries in the classroom. Although it varies from teacher to teacher, most every teacher will tell you that, if you do not establish firm boundaries the first week of school, students will be inclined to take advantage of looser guidance. Sometimes this can result in a bit of chaos.

The same principal applies in the home. Children tend to thrive in environments where there are clear, concise boundaries. And while it is THEIR job to test our boundaries, it is OUR job to maintain them. With today’s access to devices and social media, boundaries are more important than ever. So what might this look like in your home when it comes to setting boundaries around social media?

Here are a few tips I have recommended to parents over the years.

1) Maintain empathy for your teen.

As a general rule, the current parent generation did not grow up with the outstanding amount of social media peer pressure our children are facing today. Having empathy for your child in this space will help show them that, while you will maintain boundaries to keep them safe, you empathize with what they are experiencing. Sometimes just admitting you will never know how they feel, that it must be incredibly hard to maintain the balance between social media and friends, helps them to feel seen and heard.

Auburn Opelika Parents I February 2022

2) Allow for natural consequences.

This is hard. We never want to see our children fail, but failure is an incredibly important component to growth. While we want boundaries that will protect them from serious harm, we also do not want to lock them down so much that they never learn how to recover from failure. This may look like extra device time, or an app that you have approved. If they do not operate within the boundaries that you set for the device time or app, then a natural consequence could be to have the time decrease or the app removed.

3) Keep the bigger picture in mind. In

our home, if my sons are listening to music on an approved app that has some explicit language, I am okay with that. That is not a hard boundary in our home. I have also found that allowing this liberty has given my sons the freedom to want to listen to their music while in the car with me. This has created many, many opportunities for us to have open conversations about what they are listening to. Hard boundaries in our home lie more in what they are posting and saying online. Our boundaries/rules are: Do not post anything unkind, rude, or inappropriate. And they know what each of these are defined by. So for us, the big picture isn’t so much the music they are listening to but how they are treating others online.

Our “give” in the music area helps them feel they are not incredibly locked down and that they have a small win. This is just an example, and all parents have to decide what works best for their family.

4) Always be firm and consistent.

Children are built to test our patience. It is that resilience that will serve them through 20

much harder times in life. But as parents, it is also that constant resistance we get from them that makes us…well…tired.

And more prone to give in. This leads to confusion and even more push back from your child. Having clear, concise, set boundaries with consequences will give you peace…and your child guidance on what they can and cannot do.

5) Last, and so important...

Respect THEIR boundaries. During

conferences, I ask kids to name the number one thing they would ask their parents to stop doing online. Without fail they always say: STOP posting pictures of them without their permission. Ask your child before you post something with their image. This shows that you respect their boundaries, and will lead to a more trusting relationship.

Further, if you allow your child to have social media, please do not “comment” under their posts. This embarrasses them and, honestly, drives them crazy. We should definitely MONITOR what they are doing, but comments need to be left to private and in person. Like I tell parents all the time, kids have their own social media lane…Facebook is our old person lane.

And that is okay! We should all stay in our lanes. It sure does make for healthier, happier boundaries.

As always, if you need support or have questions, I am here!

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate.

She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience.

She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

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As we all know, being a parent is the most important job in the world. Our children look up to us for guidance on everything in life, even if we don’t realize it. One way that you can be a positive role model to your kids is in the area of fitness. Staying fit is critical to our health and well-being—including our mental health and happiness. We can help shape our children’s views on exercise by modeling healthy behavior and making fitness a fun part of our family’s daily routine.

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Why Exercise Is Important For Managing Stress and Anxiety Experts have found a clear link between exercise and stress reduction.

Harvard scientists concluded that “Regular aerobic exercise has a unique capacity to exhilarate and relax, to provide stimulation and calm, to counter depression and dissipate stress.” According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, some studies show that consistent exercise can be just as effective as medication for some people to reduce symptoms of anxiety. Other research shows that physically active people have lower rates of anxiety than those who do not exercise. In one study, researchers found that those who got regular vigorous exercise were 25 percent less likely to develop depression or an anxiety disorder over the next five years.

Here are several ways in which exercise helps reduce stress and anxiety:

Produces Endorphins. When we

exercise, our body releases feel-good neurotransmitters called endorphins.

These chemicals in our brain act as natural painkillers, making us feel better and less stressed. Endorphins are responsible for the natural high we get from a hard workout.

Reduces Stress Hormones. Exercise

reduces the level of stress hormones in our body like adrenaline and cortisol, helping us feel calmer.

Minimizes Fatigue. Exercise improves blood flow and our body’s ability to use oxygen efficiently. These changes in our brain then reduce fatigue and improve alertness, concentration, and cognitive function. This helps us when we are stressed out because we are depleted and need to return to a more balanced level of energy. When we are stressed, many nerves in our brain and throughout out body are impacted.

Scientists conclude, therefore, that if our body feels better, then our mind will also feel better.

Improves Self-Esteem. Behavioral factors also contribute to the emotional benefits of exercise. When we gain strength and begin to see a difference in our body, we feel better about ourselves and become happier and more confident.

Feeling better about ourselves shifts our focus to positive thoughts and away from fear and anxiety.

Provides A Fun Distraction. One

of the best parts about exercise is that it gives us a time to take a fun break from the stresses in our daily lives. Whether you are jogging to your favorite upbeat music or socializing with friends on the tennis court, your mind is distracted and you can just have a good time.

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Makes Sleeping Easier. According

to Mayo Clinic, exercise can also improve how we sleep. This is great news for those suffering from insomnia due to stress and anxiety.

Encourages Mindfulness. A great

bonus of exercise is that it provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy a mindful moment. While we work out, we can fully engage in the present moment instead of letting our mind run wild with worries. To get the best result, experts suggest doing rhythmic activities that engage the whole body like running, walking, swimming, dancing, rowing, or climbing. Helpguide. org suggests that “as you move, instead of continuing to focus on your thoughts, focus on the sensations in your limbs and how your breathing complements your movement. If your mind wanders to other thoughts, gently return to focusing on your breathing and movement. If walking or running, for example, focus on each step—the sensation of your feet touching the ground, the rhythm of your breath while moving, and the feeling of the wind against your face.”

How To Be A Good Fitness Role Model It’s so important that we play actively with our kids from a young age and that we consistently exercise in front of them (and sometimes with them) to show them how importance physical fitness is. From

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Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it.

PROVERBS 22:6

Call 334-745-2464 to schedule a tour. kmarrs@tcsopelika.org | tcsopelika.org A C LAS S I CAL AN D C H R I STIAN ACAD E MY

going on family bike rides to coaching one of their sports teams, there are so many helpful ways for you to be a fitness role model to your children throughout their lives. Here are some more ideas to get you moving:

Go for a hike outdoors. Not only are walks and hikes wonderful, safe exercise that the entire family can enjoy, they are also an opportunity to connect to the beauty of nature to bring you a sense of calm. Try adding some fun to your family hikes by turning them into a race or scavenger hunt, and by venturing to new parks and trails in your area and while on vacation.

Take a yoga class together. Yoga

offers so many incredible benefits to both you and our children including balance, strength training, time for inner focus, and an opportunity to connect with our bodies in ways we aren’t used to. Sign up for a yoga class that you can take together or pop in a video or load an App so you can do some yoga together in your living room, or better yet in your backyard.

Jackson Washburn, TCS Class of ’21

Make exercise a priority even in bad weather. Show your kids that you

still go on your morning run even if it’s not sunny outside. On days when it’s cold or rainy, set up your fitness routine indoors and get your kids involved. Put on a workout video and have them join in. There are also lots of fun ways to use your indoor space to get everyone moving. Some of the easiest exercises to perform indoors include jumping rope and calisthenics like push-ups, sit ups, and jumping jacks. Or put on some peppy music and play freeze dance or have a hula hoop contest. Before you know it, you will all be working up a sweat!

Give sports-related gifts. Another way to make fitness a priority in your home is to choose gifts like workout clothes, sports equipment, and how to books about sports during birthday and holiday time. You can also choose some tickets for a sporting event and make it a fun family outing to cheer on your team together. AOP

Sandi Schwartz is an author, journalist, and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. Her new book, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer, comes out in the spring. Learn more at www.ecohappinessproject.com.

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Active Entertainment AMF Auburn Bowl

719 Opelika Road, Auburn, Al 36830 24 interactive bowling lanes and arcade

334-887-6573www.amf.com www.amf.com

Auburn Escape Zones

1234 Commerce Drive, Auburn, Al 36830 Immerse your group in a room with a specific theme, problem and goal. 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”.

334-329-7088 www.auburnescapezones.com

Cyber Zone

107 North 9th Street, Opelika, Al 36801 65 top video and redemption games, 36 vest laser tag, Atomic Rush, and Replay Zone with retro arcades and pinball, 334-737-5000 www.cyberzone334.com

Good Times

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

334-539-3131 www.goodtimesbowling.com

Surge Trampoline Park

2506 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, Al 36801 Indoor trampoline park with jousting, slam dunk hoops, dodge ball courts, toddler play, arcades and more.

334-737-5599 www.surgeopelika.com

Fitness Programs Auburn Parks and Recreation ad on page 15

425 Perry Street , Auburn, Al 36830 Mardi Gras Zumbathon 2022: Join us for Zumbathon 2022 on Saturday, February 26th at the Boykin Community Center gymnasium from 8:30 – 10 a.m. Come dressed in your Mardi Gras colors and be ready to dance (and sweat)!

Auburn Parks and Rec: Offering fitness programs in track, football, baseball/softball, tennis, martial arts, dance, basketball, soccer, swim and more!

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

Crossfit Kids at All-In Crossfit

Dayspring Nature Shop

229-886-3545www.allincrossfit.com

334-203-1965 www,dayspringnatureshop.com

1747 Ogletree Road, Suite F, Auburn, Al 36830 CrossFit Kids emphasizes good movement throughout childhood and adolescence in the hopes that we can make kids more physically literate, enhance their sports performance, and decrease sports injuries.

KidStrong

1530 East Glenn Avenue, Auburn, Al 36830 KidStrong is a child development training center focused on brain, physical & character development for ages walking through 11 years old.

KidStrong offers a science-based curriculum that is parent-focused and taught by professionals.

334-780-1118 www.kidstrong.com/auburn

Opelika Parks and Recreation

1001 Andrews Rd,, Opelika, Al 36801 Offering multiple facilities to promote healthy lifestyles for the family. Fitness programs include fitness classes, tumbling, swim, tennis, basketball, football, softball/baseball, karate and much more!

334-705-5560 www.opelikasportsplex.com

Premier Spirit Academy

923 B Stage Road, Auburn, Al 36830 Ninja Acadmey: Young Ninja’s learn flexibility, strength, tumbling, and obstacle maneuvers. Our hour long class is perfect for highly active boys and girls who are looking for a fun recreational activity where they can learn true ninja style movements and techniques; within the confines of a safe and controlled environment.

334-521-7300 www.premierspiritacademy.com

Healthy Food/Nutrition Auburn Parks and Recreation Market ad on page 15

1011 Avenue C, Opelika, A; 36801 Providing clean products that create healthy lives.

Our goal is for our shoppers to come in and leave with all the items they need that fit their healthy lifestyle including food, herbs, vitamins, water, pet needs, beauty products and more

Opelika Farmer’s Market

411 South 10th Street, Opelika, Al 36801 Come on down and support the best locally owned farmers market! We have the freshest produce and the most beautiful plants around!

334-705-0010 www.facebook.com/opelikafarmersmarket

Parkway Farmer’s Market

2180 1st Avenue , Opelika, Al 36801 Full line of fresh fruits and vegetables year round.

With plenty of fresh and frozen local produce and Southern favorites like fatback and okra, the Parkway Farmers Market is a must-try market.

334-737-2080 www.parkwayfarmersmarket.com

Outdoor Parks Kreher Preserve and Nature Center ad on page 29

2222 North College Street, Auburn, Al 36830 20 acre track, comprising seven natural habitats, including special points of interest such as the Longleaf Pine Demonstration Forest, Wildflower Trail, Boulder Ridge, Butterfly and Vegetable Gardens, Hidden Falls and the old Homestead.

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

Callaway Gardens

17800 US Hwy 27, Pine Mountain, Ga 31822 Bike and nature trails, fishing, boating, swimming, treetop adventure, zip line, geocoaching and more.

844-512-3826 www.callawaygardens.com

425 Perry Street , Auburn, Al 36830 Monthly Market: Meets the 4th Tuesday of the month. Partnering with local growers to bring you the best produce, jellies and bounty of Lee County.

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

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Chewacla State Park

124 Shell Toomer Parkway, Auburn, Al 36830 696 scenic acres offer plenty of rest, relaxation and recreation; include a 26-acre lake, swimming

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area, playground, a modern campground, picnic areas with tables, grills and shelters, cabins, hiking and mountain biking trails.

334-887-5621 www.alapark.com/chewacla-state-park

Covington Park

213 Carver Avenue, Opelika, Al 36801 Outdoor playground and green space 334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov

Felton Little Park

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

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

Hickory Dickory Park

1399 Hickory Lane, Auburn, Al 36830 A unique, multi-level playground structure including slides, swings, towers and open play areas.

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

Kiesel Park

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

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

Martin Luther King Jr Park

190 Byrd Street, Auburn, Al 36830 Pavilion, playground, basketball goal, and a fenced-in field.

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

Municipal Park (Monkey Park)

700 5th Avenue , Opelika, Al 36801 Several playground areas, a picnic shelter, a gazebo, and an antique miniature train known as the Rocky Brook Rocket

Parent Programs and Support Alabama Department of Public Health ad on Back Cover

201 Monroe Street, Montgomery, Al All Kids Children Health Insurance Program: A low-cost, comprehensive healthcare coverage program for children under age 19. Benefits include regular check ups and immunizations, sick child doctor visits, prescriptions, vision/dental, hospitalization, mental health and substance abuse and more.

Women, Infants and Children (WIC): supplemental nutritional program for pregnant women, breastfeeding women and women who had a baby within the last 6 months, infants and children under the age of five.

888-737-5437 www.adph.org

American Heart Association ad on page 4, 23

Act Now: License to Protect: While Congress raised the minimum legal sales age of tobacco products to 21 last year, some tobacco retailers are still selling these deadly products to our kids.

Help the American Heart Association hold tobacco retailers in Alabama accountable and not sell deadly tobacco products to anyone under age 21.

Visit website below to sign the pledge! https://act.yourethecure.org/al-trlpledge

East Alabama Mental Health ad on Inside Back Cover

Ray Ward Park

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

334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov

East Alabama Medical Center

334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov

Oxbow Meadows

3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus , Ga 31903 Walk down our trails to catch a glimpse of native wildlife, view our wetlands and ponds, or to explore our educational and fun Discovery Trail.

706-807-8550 www.oxbow.columbusstate.edu

Crenshaw Street, Opelika, Al 36804 Basketball court, multi-use fields and playground

Sam Harris Park

850 Foster Street , Auburn, Al 36830 Auburn’s first “poured in place” accessible playground available for children and adults with disabilities 334-501-2930 www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Spring Villa Park

1474 Lee Road 148, Opelika, Al 36804 325 acres of beautifully wooded land with nature trails, picnic sites and spring filled swimming.

334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov

Town Creek Park

1150 South Gay Street , Auburn, Al 36830 Kid’s playground and walking trail that is 0.87 miles long, and an additional trail is being built around the pond.

334-742-2700 www.eamhc.org

2000 Pepperell Parkway, Opelika, Al 36801 Small Wonders Program: The program will help you get the care you need to have a healthy pregnancy. Breastfeeding Support Group: Meets each Thursday at noon.

334-749-0390 www.eamc.org

The Parent Assist Line (PALS)

A collaborative service of The University of Alabama Children’s Trust Fund. Call and a parenting resource specialist will answer, listen to you, then offer helpful and supportive information.

800-962-3030 www.apal.us.edu

Pediatric and Family Physicians

West Ridge Park

Cornerstone Family Chiropractic

334-705-5150 www.opelika-al.gov

323 Airport Road, Suite A, Auburn, Al 36830 Cornerstone Family Chiropractic provides very

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

1600 Covington Avenue, Opelika, Al 36801 Baseball complex and playground equipment

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specific care and attention through state-of-theart technology, premiere office amenities, and attentive and involved staff members. The team at Cornerstone truly has a heart to serve others by helping you get back to the things you enjoy most in life! Whether it’s participating in recreational sports, playing with your children, or getting back your golf game, our mission is simple: to provide chiropractic care that is affordable for the whole family.

334-246-2252 www.cornerstone4health.com

The Children’s Hospital ad on page 13

1600 7th Avenue South, Birmingham, Al 35233 Children’s of Alabama is the only medical center in Alabama dedicated solely to the care and treatment of children. It is a private, not-for-profit medical center that serves as the primary site of the University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) pediatric medicine, surgery, psychiatry, research and residency programs. Visit our website for more details on all we provide.

205-638-9100

www.childrensal.org

Auburn Family Medicine 665 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830 Comprehensive, compassionate and individualized family care.

334-826-1111 www.auburnfamilymedicine.com

Auburn Pediatric and Adult Medicine 2353 Bent Creek Road, Suite 110, Auburn, Al 36830 We provide primary care services to patients of all ages.

334-887-8707 www.auburndoc.com

Opelika Pediatrics and Family Clinic 5809 US Hwy-280, Opelika, Al 36804 Providing care for infants through adolescents 334-664-0463 www.preferredmedgroup.com/ opelika-pediatrics-and-family-clinic/

Pediatric Associates of Auburn 2901 Corporate Park Drive, Opelika, Al 36801 Our skilled team of pediatricians offers comprehensive medical care for infants, children and adolescents. We specialize in medical care for kids, and we would love to get to know you and your family better. Our commitment is to help children reach their highest potential by working with parents to promote and maintain their child’s physical and emotional well–being from birth up to college years.

334-203-1766 www.auburnpediatric.com

Pediatric Clinic 2401 Village Professional Drive South, Opelika, Al 36801 We provide primary care health services for infants, children and adolescents.

334-749-8121 www.thepedsclinic.com

Sunshine Pediatrics

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197 E University Drive Suite 2, Opelika, Al 36832 We offer a unique, multidisciplinary wellness experience. We promote physical health, optimal nutrition, developmental gains, emotional wellness, learning success, spiritual growth, and mindfulness.

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Pediatric Dentists & Orthodontics Auburn Pediatric Dentistry ad on page 11

841 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830 We are a pediatric specialty practice which means our focus is entirely on children and adolescents. We specialize in diagnosis and treatment of children’s oral health needs and development. Each visit to our office includes cavity detections, monitoring of growth and development and daily prevention of decay by focusing on proper home care.

334-826-6651 www.auburnpediatricdentistry.com

East Alabama Pediatric Dentistry ad on page 12

742 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830 We cater to children and is dedicated to providing the best quality dental services available for your child. With each visit, we hope to teach your child the importance of dental care, along with encouraging them to keep up the good work and to stay cavity-free.

334-321-0780 www.gatergrins.com

Shelley Orthodontics ad on page 7

1957 East Samford Avenue, A, Auburn, Al 36830 From clear braces to Invisalign, we offer a wide variety of treatment options using the most up-todate orthodontic technology. Rely on the experts at our practice to create your perfect smile in an affordable and comfortable fashion.

334-521-0112 www.shelleyorthodontics.com

Allen Orthodontics 1234 Ogletree Village Lane, Auburn, Al 36830 Dr. Hank Allen specializes in helping children, teens and adults achieve beautiful, straight smiles by providing orthodontic solutions specifically tailored to suit each patient’s lifestyle and personal preferences.

334-705-8655 www.bracesbyallen.com

Auburn Opelika Dental 1610 2nd Avenue, Opelika, Al 36801 Offering family dental services.

334-745-6295 www.opelikaal.dental/

Liles Pediatric Dentistry 2320 Moores Mill Road, Suite 250, Auburn, Al 36830 Our office provides specialized dentistry for children and adolescents in a warm, caring and “child-friendly” environment. We focus on preventive care to help each child grow a healthy smile that will last a lifetime. Our office serves infants, children, teens and children with special health care needs.

The Little Prince

by BalletX Saturday, March 26 ³ 7:30 p.m.

334-887-0099 www.lilessmiles.com

Sprayberry Orthodontics 773 North Dean Road, Auburn, Al 36830 We can customize any orthodontic treatment plan that fits not only your teeth but your life and personality.

334-821-5031 www.sprayberryortho.com AOP

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Auburn Opelika Parents I February 2022

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If you’re like most people, January found you energized and ready to do anything necessary to start a new fitness routine in the new year. And if you’re like most people, by February, your motivation vanishes along with the cookies you swore you wouldn’t eat. Studies show only four percent of people who join a gym in January step foot in that gym in February.

If you are one of the many who wanted this year to be different, there’s no way around it. You’re going to have to work for it. But there are three things you can do before you even lace up your sneakers to lay a foundation for success.

1| Find Your Why You’d be surprised how easy it is to figure out how you’re going to commit to your fitness journey when you know why you embarked on the mission in the first place. Ask yourself why you want to get in shape. Then ask again. And again…

Maybe even once again. You’ll know when you’re done. Once you get over the awkwardness of having a conversation with yourself, you might be surprised how powerful your “why” is. The conversation might go something like this:

Why do you want to get fit? Because I want my jeans to fit better.

Why do you want your jeans to fit better?

So I can feel good about myself.

Why do you want to see if you have the strength and endurance to do it?

Because if I can finish a triathlon, I can do anything I set my mind to.

Why do you want to feel good about yourself? Because I want to be confident.

It may not be easy to keep peeling back the layers on your “why.” But the cliché is true— nothing worthwhile is easy.

Once you’re crystal clear about the source of your desire, it becomes a million times easier to say no to the snooze button or girls night, and say yes to your workout— and yourself— instead.

Why do you want to be confident? I want to be a role model for my daughters.

Or maybe it will go something like this: Why do you want to get fit? Because my doctor said I’m pre-diabetic and I want to live a long, healthy life Why do you want to live a long, healthy life?

Because I want to see my kids grow up.

Why do you want to see your kids grow up?

Because I love them and I want to share in their joys, sorrows, and adventures.

Or maybe it will sound more like this: Why do you want to be fit? Because I want to try my first triathlon Why do you want to do a triathlon?

To see if I have the strength and endurance to do it.

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2| Have a Measurable Goal

I love fitness. As an Ironman triathlete, an avid runner, a running coach, a spin instructor and an all-around fitness geek, it’s fair to say I am obsessed with fitness. But I can’t support a goal of simply “getting fit.”

The same goes for “getting in shape” or “toning up.”

Fitness goals must be objective and measurable. In other words, you should be able to attach numbers and dates to them.

If you have a weight loss goal, make sure it includes a number of pounds and a date. “Lose weight” becomes a long-term goal of “Lose twenty pounds by December 31st.” Once you have a long-term goal,

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add a few short-term goals to keep you motivated and to provide benchmarks of your progress.

Short-term goals might be: • Lose two pounds by March first.

• Lose ten pounds by July first.

Say your goal is to complete an event, such as your first triathlon. “I will finish a triathlon” is a measurable, objective goal, for sure. But making it as specific as possible optimizes your chance for success.

Choose a specific race, put it in on your calendar, and “finish a triathlon” becomes a long-term goal of “complete the local sprint triathlon, which requires a 300-yard pool swim, a 10-mile bike ride, and a 5k run, on August 14th.”

Short-term goals might be: • Swim 50 yards without stopping by March first.

• Bike eight miles and run one mile immediately after without stopping by July first.

Thinking of your fitness goal in measurable terms lets you determine where you need to be each month, each week, and each day to achieve it.

Auburn Opelika Parents I February 2022

3| Schedule Your Workouts “A failure to plan is a plan to fail.”

Benjamin Franklin knew this was true way before we dreamed of holding tiny computers with calendars, alarm clocks, and timers in the palms of our hands. As all successful people know, what gets on the calendar gets accomplished.

Treat your workout time as you would any other appointment. Create an event on your Outlook or Google calendar, pencil it into your planner, or create an alert on your phone 20 minutes in advance. Do whatever works for you to carve out the time.

If you’re having trouble keeping your workout appointments, try a different approach. In her book, Better Than Before: Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives, author and happiness expert Gretchen Rubin classifies most people as what she calls “obligers.” Obligers find it much easier to follow through on a commitment to a friend, than to themselves. While most of us would easily hit snooze and skip the 7 am spin class, we’d never stand up the friend we promised to meet at the gym.

There’s no shame relying on external accountability to help establish a new habit. You could start by:

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• Finding a friend, neighbor, or co-worker to work out with.

• Attending classes at a group fitness studio with a strict cancellation policy. It’s hard to skip a workout you’ve already paid for • Joining a group fitness studio, running club, cycling club, masters swim team or hiking group for the community aspect. You won’t want to deal with the FOMO when you skip a workout.

• Becoming a member of an online accountability group. Or, gather your like-minded friends and create one yourself.

• Hiring a personal trainer.

Before you give up on fitness—or better yet, before you buy that fancy workout tracker and the pricey yoga pants—ask yourself the hard questions. Being honest with yourself about your fitness goals will pay dividends over the long haul as far as keeping you on your fitness path. Because once you know your Why, your What, and your When, the question of How becomes a whole lot easier to answer. AOP Pam Moore is an author, occupational therapist, and certified personal trainer who helps women push through fear to become their best selves. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome visit pam-moore.com.

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Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Digital Rentals, and Theatrical Releases Hotel Transylvania: Transformania

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Riverdance: The Animated Adventure

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

PG

B-

B

A-

A

A

Netflix

Rating

Overall

Violence

Sex

Profanity

Alcohol/Drugs

TV-G

B

B

A

A-

A

In this Irish tale, young Keegan lives with his grandfather in a lighthouse which keeps the world safe from the dangerous and destructive Huntsman. When tragedy strikes, Keegan enters a magical land where he discovers the nature of Riverdance and learns to face the darkness. Mediocre animation is a drawback of this film, hampering enjoyment of its many dancing scenes. The script also suffers from bloat, with extended scenes and pointless side plots. That said, the movie conjures up some charm and enough magic to keep young viewers entranced. Photo ©Netflix

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Rating

Feeling unaccepted by his father-in-law, Johnny wishes to become a monster – and says so in the presence of Van Helsing, who makes the wish come true and unexpectedly turns Dracula and his friends into humans. Now the whole clan heads off to South America in search of a way to restore their bodies to normal.

This film lacks the wit and heart of previous instalments in the franchise, substituting frenetic action for entertainment and flat characters for clever writing. Although the movie has little negative content it doesn’t offer much in the way of positive messages either. Young viewers might enjoy it, but it’s missing the broad appeal if its predecessors. Photo ©Amazon

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Amazon

Delicious

Digital on Demand

Rating Unrated

Overall B+

Violence B

Sex B

Profanity A-

Alcohol/Drugs C+

Pierre Malencon is a master chef, bringing honor to the duke who employs him.

When he’s humiliated by a fussy guest and the duke, Malencon retreats to his late father’s decaying roadside inn, which he gradually builds into a popular dining spot. This period piece is beautifully filmed with lots of golden light and lovingly depicted, mouth-watering food. With minimal negative content, it comes in at the low end of a PG-13 rating and is suitable for teens and adults who love food, history, or both. Photo ©Samuel Goldwyn Films

The King’s Daughter

Theaters

Rating PG

Overall B-

Violence C+

Sex A-

Profanity A

Alcohol/Drugs A-

Having narrowly escaped assassination, King Louis XIV is trying to cheat death by killing a mermaid for her life force. As the mermaid swims in the king’s grotto, she is befriended by Louis XIV’s illegitimate daughter, Marie-Joseph, who desperately wants to save her. Filmed in the Palace of Versailles, this movie has sumptuous sets that match the extravagant lunacy of the plot. The narrative is silly, but the film remains watchable thanks to brisk pacing, excellent casting, and a full throttle commitment to its cheesy storyline. Fans of fairytales will enjoy this one and will be pleased with the relatively minor content aside from some plot-related, sanitized violence. Photo ©Gravitas Ventures Grades range from: A= absence of content concerns to D= excess of content concerns Detailed reviews available at www.parentpreviews.com 31

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FamilyCalendar Thursday, January 27

Edgar Meyer, Mike Marshall, Sam Bush and George Meyer Ensemble Gogue Performing Arts Center. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu We Out Here Tour Columbus Civic Center, Ga. Live Nation presents We Out Here Tour featuring Riley Green with special guests Corey Smith and Kameron Marlowe. www.civiccenter.columbusga.gov

The Pout Pout Fish Also Jan. 28. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts.

Turn the poutiest of frowns upside down in this new musical featuring whimsical puppets and live performers in a sweeping oceanic adventure. www. rivercenter.org

Friday, January 28

Pike Piddlers Storytelling Festival Also Jan. 29. Troy. The festival begins at 6:30 on Friday night with supper and stories at the We Piddle Around Theater in Brundidge and continues with three storytelling concerts on Saturday (10 a.m., and 2 and 6:30 p.m.) at the Trojan Center Theatre (Troy University) in Troy. Includes pre-show music by popular old-time bands. 334-685-5524.

Caddy Stacks @ Opelika Public Library Come play 18 holes of mini-golf at the library.

Tonight’s adults-only event tickets are $40 each (plus fees). Event begins at 6:30 PM and features heavy hors d’oeuvres, a round of mini-golf, and two beverage tickets to the after-party at Red Clay Brewing Company. opelikalibraryfriends@gmail.com Sundilla presents Hiroya Tsukamoto in Concert Award-winning guitarist Hiroya Tsukamoto. Showtime at Pebble Hill (101 S. Debardeleben, Auburn) is 7:30 p.m. Advance tickets are $15 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, and online.

Admission at the door will be $20. www.Sundillaconcerts.com.

Saturday, January 29

Beautiful: The Carol King Musical Gogue Performing Arts Center. For six years, Beautiful the Tony and Grammy award-winning Carole King musical, thrilled Broadway audiences with the inspiring true story of one woman’s remarkable journey from teenage songwriter to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu Caddy Stacks @ Opelika Public Library Day 2 of Caddy Stacks, today is open to all ages to golf through the library from 9 AM to 4 PM. Tickets are $5 per person per round and you can buy tickets in advance OR at the Library on the day of the event. opelikalibraryfriends@gmail.com 10th Annual Polar Plunge Samford Pool. Fundraiser for the Lee County Special Olympics. This year’s theme is SILVER, so dress in your best silver-themed costumes in honor of the 10th anniversary. Registration in advance is required. Registration can be completed on Active. com - search “Polar Plunge 2022.”

Auburn Opelika Parents I February 2022

Astronomy Night Kiesel Park, 6 - 8 PM. Join us for a short astronomy program, educational space movie, powerful telescopes, and snacks. Bring a flashlight and dress warmly. Not recommended for children under 6.

Admission is $5 ($4 for members). Visit https://aub. ie/astronomynight to learn more.

Tuesday, February 1

Creative Cubs Jule Collins Smith Museum. 9:30-10:30 AM. Featuring storytime and art making for ages 3-5 years. Register at jcsm.auburn.edu

Thursday, February 3

Legendz of the Streetz Tour Columbus Civic Center. Featuring Rick Ross, Jeezy, 2 Chainz, Fabolous, Trina, and DJ Drama. www.civiccenter.columbusga.gov

Friday, February 4

The Fabulously Funny Comedy Festival Mike Epps, Sommore, Gary Owen, Lavell Crawford & Kountry Wayne. Columbus Civic Center, Ga. www.ticketmaster.com Sundilla presents Scott Cook in Concert Pebble Hill. Sundilla will welcome Canadian Scott Cook at 7:30 PM. Advance tickets are just $20 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, and online. Admission at the door will be $25. www.sundillamusic.com

Monday, February 7

A Tribute to Aretha Franklin: The Queen of Soul The Arts Association of East Alabama presents, “A Tribute to Aretha Franklin: The Queen of Soul,” from 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. at The Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. www.eastalabamaarts.org.

Tuesday, February 8

Discovery Hike: Hiking for Health This event is for all ages. Family Discovery Hikes are monthly guided hikes for the entire family, through the Kreher forest. Discovery Hikes are free – donations are welcomed. 3:30 p.m. at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. Rescheduled in the event of rain. www.facebook.com/aupreserve.

Thursday, February 10

Nature Art Series: Hiking for Health Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Local artist Heather Jackson teams up with the Kreher Preserve & Nature Center to bring you this art workshop series for all ages. Each workshop has a nature theme and will explore beautiful and interesting art techniques. www.auburn.edu/preserve Nature Walk: Hiking for Health 8:30 AM. Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. Nature Walks are monthly guided hikes through the Kreher forest. The walks are for adults only. This month’s theme is hiking for health. Nature Walks are free – donations are welcomed. Rescheduled in the event of rain.

Film and Artist Talk with Elizabeth Webb Jule Collins Smith Museum. 6:00 PM. Join us for a screening of “For Paradise” with the artist, Elizabeth Webb. She will be joined in conversation by Elijah Gaddis, assistant professor, Department of History. www.jcsm.auburn.edu

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Soledad Barrio and Noche Famenca: Puro The Jay and Suzie Gogue Performing Arts Center.

7:30 p.m. Formed in 1993 by Martín Santangelo and his Bessie award-winning wife, Soledad Barrio, Noche Flamenca has been hailed by critics everywhere for its transcendent and deeply emotional performances. Gogue Performing Arts Center. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu.

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Near His Heart Dinner Lakeview Baptist Church. Auburn. 6:00 PM. Join us for a special night for parents and caregivers of those with special needs. Guest speaker will be Tiffany Haines, author of Wrestling Hurricanes.

Please register for the dinner and for childcare at www.nearhisheart.weebly.com.

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Daddy Daughter Dance Also Feb. 12. Opelika Sportsplex. 6:00-8:00 PM. $30 per couple/$10 additional daughter. Registration required by Feb 7. Tickets include meal, corsage, boutonniere and entertainment. www.opelika-al.gov 32nd Annual Daddy Daughter Date Nights Sponsored by Auburn Parks and Recreation Also Feb. 12. Hosted at the Auburn Junior High School Fieldhouse from 6:30-9 PM. This year’s theme is CONFI-DANCE and will feature neon, black and white color scheme! For more information contact Elizabeth Kaufman at 334-501-2939 or www. auburnalabama.org/parks Mother Son Blue Jean Ball Also Feb. 12.

Covington Rec Center. 6:00-8:00 PM. Mothers and sons of all ages, come and have a fun, relaxing night out! $30 couple/$10 each additional son.

Registration required by Feb. 4. Ticket includes a meal, corsage, boutonniere and entertainment. www.opelika-al.gov

Saturday, February 12 An Evening of Love Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org.

Valentine’s Day Hike Also Feb. 13 and 14. This self-led hike takes you through our trails with several ‘lovely’ stops along the way. Enjoy the hike alone or with a loved one!

This event is free – no reservations are needed!

Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. wp.auburn.edu/ preserve.

CSO: Serenade!

RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. There is no sound as lustrous as the sound of a string orchestra, and no better way to enjoy that sound than an evening of the most beautiful serenades for a romantic Valentine’s weekend. www.rivercenter.org The British Invasion Live on Stage!

RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. In 1964, U.S. television viewers tuned in to the number one show of the era, The Ed Sullivan Show, to see the American debut of a British group called The Beatles.

This was the beginning of a cultural phenomenon known as the British invasion. www.rivercenter.org

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FamilyCalendar Wednesday, February 16 Cats Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org.

New Edition: The Culture Tour Columbus Civic Center. New Edition headlines an iconic lineup, including the legendary Charlie Wilson, along with special guest, Jodeci. www.civicenter.columbusga.gov

Thursday, February 17

Third Thursday Poetry Series at Pebble Hill The Caroline Marshall Draughon Center for the Arts & Humanities at Pebble Hill. Make plans to attend each third Thursday of the month at 6:30 p.m. This month will be a reading by Jessica Jacobs. www. facebook.com/cmdcah.

Black History Film Festival

Jule Collins Smith Museum. 6:00 PM. A multi-site collaboration with the Auburn University PanHellenic Council. www.jcsm.auburn. edu

Woman 2 Woman Covington Rec Center. Join Opelika Parks and Recreation for a roundtable discussion with different speakers on health, finance, and motherhood/ womanhood. 6:00 PM. $15 per session. Light supper, fun atmosphere and Q & A session. www. opelika-al.gov

Friday, February 18

Gladys Knight Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org.

Camille A. Brown and Dancers This New York City-based dance company performs locally and across the world, inviting audiences into stories and dialogues about race, culture, and identity.

The Gogue Performing Arts Center. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu.

Sundilla presents Meaghan Farrell in Concert Pebble Hill. 7:30 PM. Advance tickets are just $15 and can be found at Spicer’s Music, Ross House Coffee, and online at sundillamusic.com. Admission at the door will be $20.

Saturday, February 19 Walker Hayes Birmingham. www.ticketmaster.com.

Schwob School of Music Kaleidoscope RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. The Joyce and Henry Schwob School of Music presents an exciting 70 minute, full spectrum musical performance featuring over 200 Schwob music students! Featuring large instrumental and vocal ensembles, chamber music, and individual performers. www.rivercenter.org

Sunday, February 20

An Evening with Branford Marsalis, Saxophonist This celebrated ensemble is renowned for its uncompromising interpretation of a kaleidoscopic range of both original compositions and jazz and popular classics. The Gogue Performing Arts Center. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu.

Gatlin Brothers The Gatlin Brothers have entertained audiences in some of the world’s largest venues and from some of the most iconic stages, including the GRAMMY Awards, the American Music Awards, the People’s Choice Awards, and more! Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org.

Campfire Cooking II Explore tips, tricks, and recipes for cooking over an open fire. Campfire Cooking II builds on Campfire Cooking I but taking the first class is not required. Cyndi Czerkawski (In The Garden instructor) takes a farm-to-table approach to campfire cooking using fresh, local ingredients.

Kreher Preserve & Nature Center. Visit https://aub.ie/ campfirecooking for more information.

Monday, February 28

Syncopated Ladies 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. at the Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. Syncopated Ladies is an all-female Tap company that is widely known for viral videos, the most successful being their tribute to Prince and their cover of Beyoncé’s Formation. www. eastalabamaarts.org.

Open Auditions for Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike Also March 1. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center.

No previous experience necessary! 4 women and 2 men are needed for an award-winning comedy. Every character has some beautiful moments on-stage.

Set, props, and other volunteers are also welcome to come to auditions. www.auburnalabama.org/parks

Wednesday, March 2 Blue Man Group

War Eagle Run Fest Half Marathon, 5K, Kids Mile This new half marathon begins at Toomer’s Corner and ends in Jordan-Hare Stadium on the 50yard line. Half marathon, 5K, and a kids’ 1-mile run options available. Downtown Auburn. www. instagram.com/wareaglerunfest.

Tuesday, February 22

Academy of St. Martin in the Fields with Joshua Bell RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. One of the world’s finest chamber orchestras, renowned for fresh, brilliant interpretations of the world’s greatest orchestral music. www.rivercenter.org

Friday, March 4

Friday, February 25

Sunday, March 6

Saturday, February 26

Monday, March 7

Celtic Woman: Postcards from Ireland The most successful all-female Irish group in history returns with an 83-city North American tour in 2022 and a stopover in Montgomery. Montgomery Performing Arts Center. www.mpaconline.org.

Tuesday, March 8

Yamoto: The Drummers of Japan Gogue Center for the Performing Arts. 7:30 PM. Yamato travels all over the world with Japan’s traditional Wadaiko drums. goguecenter.auburn.edu/ yamato-the-drummers-of-japan/

Mardi Gras Parade The Krewe De Tigris Mardi Gras Parade will be held in downtown Auburn at 3 p.m. Don’t miss this entertainment district event! www.krewedetigris.com.

Russell Forest Run Fee for participants only. Russell Crossroads—Check website or call for details. Benefit for the Alexander City Schools Education Foundation. 7:45 a.m.

Alexander City. www.russellforestrun.com.

Zumbathon 2022 Mardi Gras Party Auburn Parks and Rec. 90 Minutes of dancing designed to get you in shape! Boykin Community Center gym from 8:30 – 10:00 a.m. Come dressed in your Mardi Gras colors and be ready to dance (and sweat)! FREE and open to the public. Children ages 8 and older are welcome with parent participation.

Register at www.auburnalabama.org/parks.

Sunday, February 27

Anais Mitchell + Bonny Light Horseman Singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell, is joined by Bonny Light Horseman, a folk supergroup trio. The Gogue Performing Arts Center. www.goguecenter.auburn.edu

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RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. Signature drumming, colorful moments of creativity and quirky comedy— the men are still blue but the rest is all new! www. rivercenter.org

Creative Cubs Jule Collins Smith Museum. 9:30-10:30 AM. Featuring storytime and art making for ages 3-5 years. Register at jcsm.auburn.edu.

Nitty Gritty Dirt Band Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. Following an extended 50th anniversary tour, the ensemble grew to a six-piece in 2018 for the first time since their early jug band days. www.mpaconline.com

Spring Break Camp (Auburn City Schools) at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center Also March 8 and 9. The theme for 2022 Spring Break Camp is “KPNC: March Madness” and will look at various animals in the natural world and how they would match up against each other based on survival characteristics. wp.auburn.edu/preserve

Discovery Hike 3:30 p.m. at Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. This event is for all ages. Family Discovery Hikes are monthly guided hikes through the Kreher forest. Discovery Hikes are free – donations are welcomed. Rescheduled in the event of rain – check Kreher Preserve & Nature Center Facebook. www.facebook.com/aupreserve

Thursday, March 10 Woman 2 Woman See Feb. 17 for details.

Teaching with Collections Jule Collins Smith Museum. 6 PM. Mimi Hellman, professor and associate department chair of Art History, Skidmore College. Register at jcsm.auburn.edu

Friday, March 11

Casting Crowns: The Healer Tour Columbus Civic Center. Compassion Presents: Casting

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FamilyCalendar Crowns with We are Messengers and Johnathan Traylor. www.civiccenter.columbusga.gov

Saturday, March 12

WWE Road to Wrestlemania Columbus Civic Center. WWE is back! Don’t miss out on the Road to WrestleMania. www.civiccenter.columbusga.gov

Sunday, March 13

Film on Second Sunday Jule Collins Smith Museum. 1:30 PM. A screening of “Sisters with Transistors” (2020), a documentary about the remarkable story of electronic music’s female pioneers, composers who embraced machines and their liberating technologies to utterly transform how we produce and listen to music today. www.jcsm.auburn.edu Violins Du Roy with Jeremy Denk, Piano Gogue Performing Arts Center. Founded in 1984, the group continues under music director Jonathan Cohen to explore the nearly boundless repertoire of music for chamber orchestra in performances matched as closely as possible to the period of each work’s composition. www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu Paul Thorn Montgomery Performing Arts Centre. The son of a preacher man, an accomplished painter, former professional boxer and seasoned skydiver, Paul has opened up for Sting, Huey Lewis and the News, John Prine, Bonnie Raitt, Toby Keith and Jeff Beck. www.mpaonline.org

Monday, March 14

Spring Break Camp (Opelika City Schools) Also March 15 & 16. Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. The theme for 2022 Spring Break Camp is “KPNC: March Madness” and will look at various animals in the natural world and how they would match up against each other based on survival characteristics. wp.auburn.edu/preserve

Friday, March 18

Alfredo Rodriguez and Pedrito Martinez 7:30 PM. Classical piano prodigy Alfredo Rodríguez and street percussionist Pedrito Martinez, two of Cuba’s most exciting and innovative artists, have joined forces to form the Cuban jazz supergroup, the Alfredo Rodríguez and Pedrito Martinez Duo. www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu

Saturday, March 19

Tails and Trails Fun Run Join Active Auburn as we kick-off the 10th annual Bark in the Park with our 2nd annual Tails and Trails 3K for you and your furriest friends. Grab your running shoes and your perfect running “pawtner” for a dog gone good time! 8:00 a.m. at Kiesel Park followed by Bark in the Park at 9 a.m. Visit auburnalabama.org/parks/ register to register. (334) 501-2940.

Saturday, March 26

BalletX: The Little Prince Gogue Performing Arts Center. 7:30 PM. BalletX produces original choreography that expands the vocabulary of classical dance for all audiences. www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu

Tuesday, March 29

An Evening with Kenny G Gogue Performing Arts Center. 7:30 PM. Kenny G is a phenomenally successful instrumentalist whose

Auburn Opelika Parents I February 2022

recordings routinely made the pop, R&B, and jazz charts during the 1980s and ’90s, Kenny G‘s sound became a staple on adult contemporary and smooth jazz radio stations. www.goguecentertickets.auburn.edu

Wednesday, March 30

Multilingual Family Story Time February 14, 3:30 PM, Auburn Public Library. Families enjoy stories, songs and rhymes in a variety of languages. After Story Time, mingle with other families, share stories and make new friends. Light refreshments will be provided. libraryevents@ auburnalabama.org.

Library Events

Teen Chocolate Olympics February 21, 4 PM. Opelika Public Library. Compete against your friends in minute-to-win-it style games involving all kinds of chocolate! 6th-12th grades. mhanson@opelika-al.gov

Mnozil Brass: Gold The Opelika Center for the Performing Arts. www.eastalabamaarts.org

Auburn Public Library Story Time Birth-5 year olds. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 9:30 AM, and 1:00 PM. Early literacy story time for our guests and their favorite grown-ups. Program will be held in person in the Picture Books section of the Auburn Public Library Youth Room. This event is free and open to the public.

Auburn Public Library Puppet Show Fridays, 10:30 AM and 3:30 PM. Puppet shows will be held in person in the Picture Books section of the Youth Room and virtually via Zoom. This event is free and open to the public. Do you want to watch from home? Register for a Zoom link here: https://zoom.us/webinar/register/WN__ae86qbR1mhYZIDFybRzA Opelika Public Library Yoga Story Time Fridays, 10 AM, Ages 0-5 and their siblings are welcome to join Ms. Janie for Yoga Story Time!

Stories, movement, games, and fun!

Opelika Public Library Music and Movement Family Story Time Mondays, 6:00-7:00 PM. Opelika Public Library Brick Builders Tuesdays, 3:30 PM. Opelika Public Library Baby & Me Story Time Wednesdays, 9:30 AM. Opelika Public Library Action Center Wednesdays, 10 AM. The action center is a time and place for preschoolers to discover the world with fun activities. If your little one needs to move and groove the action center is a great place to be.

Teen Dungeons and Dragons Opelika Public Library. A new D&D campaign begins Saturdays, 1:00-5:00 PM.

Animal Tales Animal Show Join Animal Tales for a fun and engaging animal show on February 21. library@opelika-al.gov Spring Break Monday Movie March 14, 10 AM. Come enjoy popcorn and a movie on the first day of Opelika’s spring break. Movie to be announced.

Full STEAM Ahead Opelika Public Library. During Opelika’s spring break, March 14-18, the library will be hosting special events focused on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) activities. 2:00 PM. 2nd-5th grades. tcooper@opelika-al.gov Read Across the Preserve Kreher Preserve and Nature Center. Join the KPNC and the Auburn Public Library, Tuesdays, 3:00-5:00 PM as we partner to celebrate “National Read Across America Day”. At the KPNC, enjoy stories every 20 minutes at many locations around the Nature Center including the Nature Playground’s tree house, the campfire, the waterfall deck, and more.

Performances

Dolly Parton’s 9 to 5, The Musical Jan. 20-Feb. 6. Virginia Samford Theatre, Birmingham. This intimate theatre now known as the Virginia Samford Theatre has been a singular hub of creative insight and diverse entertainment. www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org

Macbeth Feb. 3-24. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. Dunsinane’s power couple embarks on a blind tour of betrayal and bloodletting when Scottish noblemen Macbeth is told by witches that he will become king one day. This supernatural battle between fate and will is one of the Bard’s most action packed tragedies. www.asf.net Dear Anne, From Nina by Claudia Haas Feb. 11-20. Family Theatre. A fictional story of a farm girl in Iowa and her sister who became pen pals to Anne and Margot Frank. www.familytheatre.org

Family Movie Matinee @ Auburn Public Library February 7, 3:30 PM. You’re invited to a family-friendly movie! Space Jam: A New Legacy (2021), rated PG, 115 minutes. Please contact us if you need adaptive assistance to make the program more accessible. libraryevents@auburnalabama.org or call 334-501-3296.

Look Forward: The Ruby Bridges Story Feb. 18-27.

Springer Children’s Theatre. This is a true story of the extraordinary 6-year-old who helped shape history when she became the very first African-American sent to first grade in an all white school-changing America forever. Set in New Orleans in 1960. www. springeroperahouse.org.

Design a Valentine @ Auburn Public Library February 8, 3:30 PM. Enjoy festive music and refreshments while making a sweet valentine for a special someone. Open to all ages. libraryevents@ auburnalabama.org.

Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night or What You Will Cutting Feb. 24-March 5. Presented by Auburn Area Community Theatre Young Performers, Twelfth Night is a fast-paced comedy packed with romance,

Storytime at the Garden Saturdays, 10 AM. Join Opelika Public Library staff and O-Grows staff for storytime and a craft in the green house at O-Grows (behind Southside Center for the Arts on Glenn Street library@opelika-al.gov.

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FamilyCalendar practical jokes and mistaken identity! This adaptation lasts about a hour. Visit auburnact.org for updates on performances. $10/Adults, $8/ Children, Students and Seniors. Tickets can be purchased at auburnact.org.

Sports Auburn University Gymnastics January 28. February 11, 25. March 4.

The Color Purple Feb. 25-March 12. Springer Opera House. With a joyous Tony-Award winning musical score featuring jazz, ragtime, gospel, African music and blues, The Color Purple is a story of hope and the healing power of love. www.springeroperahouse.org.

Junie B. Jones The Musical Jr. Mar. 3-6. Virginia Samford Theatre. www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org Little Shop of Horrors Mar. 3-April 3. Alabama Shakespeare Festival. www.asf.net Hairspray Mar. 16-17. RiverCenter for the Performing Arts. www.rivercenter.org Walkin the Line: A Tribute to Johnny Cash Mar. 18-23. Springer Opera House. www.springeroperahouse.org Company Mar. 31-April 10. Virginia Samford Theatre. Company is a 1970 musical comedy which revolves around Robert (a single man unable to commit fully to a steady relationship, let alone marriage), the five married couples who are his best friends, and his three girlfriends. www.virginiasamfordtheatre.org

Auburn University Swim and Dive February 3-5.

Auburn University Men’s Basketball January 29. February 1, 12, 16, 25.

Auburn University Women’s Basketball January 27. February 3, 14, 20, 24.

Columbus River Dragons January 28, 29, February 11, 12, 13.

Ongoing Market Days on Broadway Saturdays, 9 AM - Noon. Columbus, GA. Featuring over 200 regional vendors selling everything from homemade bread and pastries to homegrown products, including local and organic produce, home goods, jewelry, crafts, and eclectic gifts and clothing. www.uptowncolumbusga.com Friday Night Concert Series Uptown Columbus. You’ll hear jazz, rock, reggae, gospel, and more. A full block along Broadway is shut down for pedestrian use. FREE and open to all ages. Bring your lawn chair, blanket, outside food

and beverages allowed—glass containers and outside alcoholic beverages prohibited. www.alwaysuptown.com Saturdays at the Garden O Grows Farmers Market Come out to O Grows Farmer’s Market every Saturday this fall from 9 a.m. - noon! Local growers, bakers, craftsmen/women, artisans, community members, neighbors, gardeners, workshops, educational activities, and more! O Grows is a communityuniversity partnership with the mission to meet the food needs of all residents. www.ogrows.org Winter Invitational Through Feb. 4. Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center.

An invitational exhibition featuring new artworks by area artists and craft persons.

Works on Paper Feb. 14-March 11.

Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. An open exhibition featuring a variety of art materials by regional artists.

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

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A Sacrifice Will Be Required

Q. I bring home about $2,800 a month, and our mortgage payment is $1,100.

We have been forced to take money out of our savings account occasionally over the last year or so to help pay the bills. My wife loves being a stay-athome mom with our two preschool kids, but even she is talking about finding a daycare for the kids so she can go back to work and help out financially. How do you feel about this idea and our situation?

A. I can’t blame your wife for loving the idea of staying home with your kids when they’re so young. Being a stayat-home mom is a great thing if you can make the numbers work. Still, I’m sure it’s no picnic trying to live on $1,700 a month with two little ones in the mix.

Let’s look at it like a math problem with three components — house

Auburn Opelika Parents I February 2022

payment, income and lifestyle. Forty percent of your pay is going toward your home. That’s way too much. Your mortgage payment or rent should never be more than 25 percent of your take home pay. I suppose you could look into the possibility of refinancing your home, but that’s not going to solve all your problems.

One option would be finding a way to generate some extra income, whether that means a part-time job nights or weekends, or pursuing additional education or certifications to get your

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income level up at work. Another is to sell the house and find a less expensive alternative, but I’m never a big fan of that idea — especially in a family situation — unless there’s absolutely no other way to avoid bankruptcy or foreclosure.

I think you and your wife need to sit down, and spend some serious heartto-heart time talking things over, crunching the numbers and creating a plan.

There’s going to be some sacrifice involved for everyone, and only you two can decide what’s worth it and what isn’t — for you two and your kids.

www.auburnopelikaparents.com

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FLU & PNEUMONIA

FACTS

Flu & Pneumonia Vaccines Reduce Illnesses, Doctor Visits, Hospitalizations, Missed Work & School.

U L F T H G I F IA N O M U E & PN

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