Thursday, July 15, 2010

Celebrate Opelika

Looks like Downtown Opelika will be having a big shin-dig this Saturday starting at 10 am with the last event scheduled at 7pm. There are supposed to be arts and crafts vendor out and looks like lots of fun events scheduled.

Earth Fare

Even though organic produce and healthy foods are often more expensive, I  am seeing the value in it more and more these days.  For those other thrifters trying to fit wholesome food in under budget here are a couple of tidbits about Earthfare. 

If you sign up for their newsletter they will send coupons into your inbox.  (you can look at the latest batch here).

Thursday nights kids eat free from 4 - 8 at their deli.  I am told that this is up to 6 kids per adult meal.  You can't really beat that if you have kids!

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Owl Release July 8th

Here's the info:


The Southeastern Raptor Center, in collaboration with the City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Department, will release owls into the wild atKiesel Park on Thursday, July 8. The center will host an educational program at 6:30 p.m., followed by the owl release at 7 p.m. Citizens are encouraged to bring a picnic and enjoy the scenery at Kiesel Park while taking part in this unique event.

The majority of the birds to be released are barred and Eastern screech owls. “Most of these birds were healthy fledglings that were mistaken for orphans,” said Liz Crandall, veterinary technician with the Southeastern Raptor Center.
Crandall will talk about not removing young, healthy wildlife; a history of the birds being released; and raptors. Two red-tailed hawks, used for educational purposes, will also be on hand.
The mission of the center’s rehabilitation section is to rehabilitate injured, ill, or orphaned birds of prey. Annually, the Southeastern Raptor Center takes in between 200 and 275 birds of prey from across the Southeast. Birds are generally brought in by members of the public, a network of southeastern rehabilitators and educational facilities, and state and federal agencies.
“Most of the birds come from within a 60-mile radius,” said Crandall.
The Southeastern Raptor Center is part of the Auburn University College of Veterinary Medicine. For more information, please call 334-844-3698.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Art Exhibit at Jan Dempsey

Here's the info:

The Auburn Arts Association is currently hosting the Photography Invitational I, featuring photographs by John Shadrick and Hank Siegel, on display now through July 19 at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. Don't miss your opportunity to view the exhibition and meet the artists at a reception on Saturday, July 10 from 3 - 5 p.m. at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center Art Gallery. The reception is free to the public.
Admission to the Art Gallery at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center is free and open to the public Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. For more information, please contact the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center at 501-2963 or visit www.auburnalabama.org/arts.

Friday, June 25, 2010

Children's Book

Crops on the Farm (Optimized for Kindle)

For those of you who have Kindle's (and children) I have just published a children's picture book!  It is priced at 99cents (which is the lowest price they would let me put it).  It's got 17 pictures and shows a farmer planting his field and some of the crops that come from it.  Good way to show kids where their food comes from.  The farm pictured is my family's farm located here in Alabama.  

Also, for any who might not know, the price of the Kindle just got reduced to $189.  Nothing like a little competition to drive the price down.  It's still quite an investment, but they are nice if you can afford it.

Fireworks!

Join the City of Auburn for the Annual Fourth of July Celebration, sponsored by Briggs & Stratton Corporation, on Sunday, July 4 behind the home side of Duck Samford Stadium. This FREE community event is open to all ages. Gates open at 6 p.m., followed by live music and children's activities at 7 p.m. The evening culminates with one of THE best fireworks displays in the area at 9 p.m.

Monday, June 21, 2010

Exciting Week from the Gnu's Room

Looks like a lot of fun stuff going on this week with the Gnu's Room and the Shops at Southside:



Tuesday, June 22nd at 2:00 p.m. - Write Time
Free weekly writing workshop. An hour of inspiration, sharing, and
information for writers of any level of expertise.

Tuesday, June 22nd at 5:30 p.m. - Tea for Tuesday
Free tea tasting hosted by our resident tea expert, Chip Self. Come,
learn and sample - simple!

Wednesday, June 23rd at 7:00 p.m. - Singer/Songwriter Competition
We would like to continue this event through the summer months, but
may not be able to if we don't have participation. Only $4.00 entry
fee for performers and $5.00 admission for listeners. Cash prize to
winner is $100.00. Come support your favorite performer!

Thursday, June 24th at 6:30 p.m. - Science Cafe Auburn
Tia Gonzales, Agricultural Program Assistant at Auburn University and
owner of Naturista Fine Garden Design, will be presenting the topic,
"Rain Barrels: What, How & Why?" Learn more about the benefits of
water collection using rain barrels and how to set up a system.

FRIDAY, JUNE 25th from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. - SHOPS @ SOUTHSIDE
SUMMER CELEBRATION #1

The first of three events, Celebration #1 will feature free music by
local performers, a reading/book signing by local author Jim Buford,
drawings for great prizes (no purchase required) and special pricing
at all participating shops.

5:00 p.m. - Store specials and registration for prizes begin

5:30 p.m. - Meet Auburn author Jim Buford, who has recently had a book
of short stories published, "The House Across the Road." Jim will read
one of his stories and will be glad to sign copies of the book for you.

5:45 p.m. - 6:20 p.m. - Music by Bree Windham

6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. - Music provided by Brennan Reece and Josh McKenzie

9:30 p.m. - Drawing for prizes

Prizes (thus far, but more to come) include:

Friday Night Wine Tastings from Fine Wine & Beer by Gus
Whole Bean Coffee from Mama Mocha's Coffee Roastery
Gnu's Room Gift Certificates
Perch Gift Certificates
Scuba Lesson from Adventure Sports
Guitar Lesson from The Guitar Shoppe
Yoga Session from Yoga Ananda

Friday, June 11, 2010

This Week at Gnu's Room

Here's the latest from the Gnu's Room.  They have some new stuff for the summer that sounds pretty good.  I'm particularly excited about the tea tastings.

Here's the info:
Friday, June 11th from 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. - Chair Massage at the
Gnu's Room

Conar Rochford will be offering relaxing chair massages to erase the
stress of a long, hard, hot week! Only $10.00 for a luxurious 15 minute
session. Don't miss it!


We are initiating some "GNU" ideas for the summer, which will begin next week.


Try out our new Call-in Curbside Coffee (CCC)!

If you are in a hurry, but need some quality coffee to jump start your
day, you have a wonderful option effective with Monday, June 14th. To
participate in CCC is simple:

1. Come by the Gnu's Room and purchase a gift card for any desired
amount. We will keep your card on file and let you know when your
balance is running low.

2. Call in your coffee order 10 minutes prior to when you wish to pick it up.

3. Park in front of the Gnu's Room (you may need to pull in behind
other cars, but it will only be for a few seconds). We will deliver
your coffee to your vehicle!



Tea for Tuesdays at 5:30 p.m. each week

Beginning on the 15th, Chip Self, our local tea aficionado, will be
offering free tea tastings at the Gnu's Room with lots of great
education to accompany each sample. Chip was instrumental in the Gnu's
Room carrying the fine selection of organic loose leaf teas we have.
For those non-coffee drinkers out there, this is the perfect
opportunity to see what else is available for the discriminating
palette.



Gnu Biking Crew at 6:00 p.m. each Thursday

This is a beginning biking group for women only (sorry guys - but you
have lots of other options!). The meeting place will be Blooming
Colors and the pace will be as slow as needed, with easy terrain.
Route maps will be available. Any type of bike is acceptable and if
you don't have a bike, the city of Auburn has loaner bikes. You use
the bike for two weeks at no cost and get a helmet by just showing
your i.d. The total time for the ride will be about an hour and a half
allowing time for warm up and cool down. Since the ride will not be
over before it starts to get dark, you will need to have lights for
the front and back of your bike, a reflective vest, and a helmet. June
17th will be the first group ride. If you have any questions, please
contact Ginger Purvis at 524-4767.



--
The Gnu's Room Bookstore & Coffee House
414 S Gay St
Auburn, AL 36830
334.821.5550
www.thegnusroom.com
Coffee-Books-Community

Sunday, June 6, 2010

Yard Sale at New Leaf Galleries

I've been meaning to post about New Leaf Galleries for a while now.  It's an upscale furniture consignment store in Opelika, AL.  Of course, it's not super cheap or free like I normally get excited about, but the prices are really good for furniture.  The store is beautiful, all the furniture is great, and the people working there are really helpful. If you are looking for furniture this is definitely a good stop. Also, I just got an invitation to an Anniversary Yard Sale they are having.  


Here's the info:




Come celebrate New Leaf!

Can you believe it's been a year?

Come see us on June 19th for a free hot dog cookout and a non-profit yard sale to benefit Original Design Outfitters (
http://originaldesignoutfitters.com/) and CONVERGE auburn (http://convergeauburn.org/).

We'll also be cooking hot dogs in the parking lot, so don't miss your chance at a free lunch!

Auburn Stride Walkers June Schedule


Looking to add a little more movement to your daily routine? Join the City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Department and the Auburn Stride Walkers every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday this month at 9 a.m. as they explore various City walking trails as a group.  Participants may walk at their own pace and distance. Join us for the following walks this month:
June 2Kiesel Park
520 Chadwick Lane 
June 4Ogletree Village Shopping Center
Meet in parking lot near Moores Mill Road
June 7  
Auburn Public Library
749 East Thach Ave.
June 9
Town Creek Park
1150 South Gay Street
June 11Charlotte & Curtis Ward Bike Path
Located at entrance to Chewacla State Park 
June 14 
Jule Collins Smith Museum
Located off South College Street 
June 16Hickory Dickory Park
1400 Hickory Ln & N. Cedarbrook
June 18Dean Road Recreation Center
307 South Dean Road
June 21
Kiesel Park
520 Chadwick Lane
June 23Ogletree Village Shopping Center
Meet in parking lot near Moores Mill Road
June 25Auburn Public Library
749 East Thach Avenue
June 28
Town Creek Park
1150 South Gay Street
June 30Charlotte & Curtis Ward Bike Path
Located at entrance to Chewacla State Park
          
This program is open to all ages and is free to the public.  Participants are encouraged to bring bottled water and wear comfortable walking shoes.  For more information, please contact Melissa Weldon at 501-2946 or Dee Watson at 501-2948.  Walks will not be held on rainy days.

Wednesday, May 26, 2010

Farmer's Market

The Main Street Farmers Market opens Tuesday, June 1st at 2:00!!! Nothing better than 'Fresh from the Farm' fruits and vegetables!!! Any Fresher & You’d be Driving a Tractor!




I think that the market at Ag Heritage Park at AU has also started up.  It's on Thursdays from 3:00 to 6:00pm.

$1 Movies at the Theatre

This summer Carmike is offering $1 movie tickets on Tuesdays starting at 10am on some select movies.

http://www.carmike.com/promotions.aspx?id=80

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Towel Day

For any Douglas Adams fans out there....Don't forget it's Towel Day Today!

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Towel_Day

And if you did....DON'T PANIC

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Turtle Release this Saturday

The Forest Ecology Preserve is releasing turtles on Saturday:


Our turtle habitat is getting crowded!  As the weather has warmed up and turtles have been on the move we see more turtles on the roadway.  We've had several folks bring us turtles rescued from the busy streets of Auburn to come live a more peaceful life at the preserve.  Come out Saturday morning @ 9:00am as we release two of these turtles back into the forest at the Ecology Preserve.  Auburn Graduate and Preserve Volunteer Daisy Griffin will give a short presentation about box turtles followed by an optional hike.  During the presentation there will be live turtles to view and touch.  Meet at the Pavilion.  Free Admission.

Also, remember our turtle habitat and its permanent residents are accessible to view 7 days a week.  For pictures and more information check out 
www.facebook.com/auburnpreserve

An Affordable CSA?

I have long been interested in joining a CSA group.  CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture and basically boils down to you pay a monthly fee and get fresh, local veggies, fruit, eggs, meat, whatever, each week.  I love this idea!  I looked into it in Auburn and found that Randle Farms had a CSA program.  I heard great and wonderful things about their produce.  I couldn't afford their prices.  So I am excited to hear about a new CSA coming to town.  The Grow Alabama program is now delivering to Auburn.  They seem to have reasonable prices and even let you customize your orders.  

Has anyone tried them out yet?  Check it out here.

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Gnu's Room Events

The Latest from the Gnu's Room:


Tuesday, May 19th at 2:00 p.m. - The Write Time
Writers of any expertise are invited. Facilitated by Helen Silverstein
and other group members. No charge for this event.

Wednesday, May 20th at 5:30 p.m. - Coffee Cupping
Sarah Barnett hosts a weekly tasting featuring coffee from 3 regions.
No charge for this event.

Wednesday, May 20th at 7:00 p.m. - Singer/Songwriter Contest
$4.00 entry fee for competitors, $5.00 admission for spectators. $100
cash prize to winner. All original music, co-sponsored by The Guitar
Shoppe.

Friday, May 21st at 7:00 p.m. - Live Music by Barefoot For Native
This trio from England is touring the U.S. and bringing their
beautiful harmonies to the Gnu's Room. They are promoting their music
with an EP, which will be available for purchase at the concert. $5.00
suggested donation.

Saturday, May 22nd at 7:00 p.m. - Live Music by Errick Johnson
Local performer Errick Johnson makes jazz and big band standards his
own with his silky vocals accompanied by keyboard. $5.00 suggested
donation.

Next week:

Tuesday, May 25th at 2:00 p.m. - The Write Time

Tuesday, May 26 at 6:30 p.m. - Science Cafe Auburn
Dr. Douglas Pitt of Auburn Chiropractic Health Clinic presents the
topic, "The Science of Chiropractic: Dispelling the Myths." A Q&A will
follow the presentation.

Wednesday, May 26th at 5:30 p.m. - Coffee Cupping

--
The Gnu's Room Bookstore & Coffee House
414 S Gay St
Auburn, AL 36830
334.821.5550
www.thegnusroom.com
Coffee-Books-Community

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Art Exhibit at Jan Dempsey

The 12th Annual Juried Art Show and Transitions exhibition are currently on display at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center.
A reception for both exhibitions will be held on Saturday, May 15 from 4 – 6 p.m. at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. The reception is free and open to the public.
The Juried Art Show includes 37 works by 25 local artists that were judged by Richard Metzger, executive director of the Troy-Pike Cultural Arts Center and the Johnson Center for the Arts in Troy, Ala. Of the 37 works, nine were selected for special recognition. Winners will be announced at the reception.
Julie Plasketes and her son, Rivers Plasketes, are currently exhibiting Transitions, a collection of their works, to celebrate his graduation from high school and acceptance into the New York School of Visual Arts.
The Art Gallery and Gallery II are open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., at the Jan Dempsey Community Arts Center. For more information about the exhibitions, please call the Arts Center at 501-2963 or visit www.auburnalabama.org/arts.

Mini-Golf $3.00 a game this Saturday

Here's the info:

The USA Mini Golf team
http://www.usaminigolf.com


Saturday, May 15th
11am to 11pm CDT

Special USA Mini Golf Birthday Rate: $3.00 per game!

Contest Prizes throughout the day!
Prizes include:
- Coupons
- T-shirts
- YEAR PASSES!

Fun! Fun! Fun!

We are located at the USA Town Center
In Opelika-- just off I-85 at exit 62.
Please see our website for more information.
http://www.usaminigolf.com

Wednesday, May 12, 2010

Touch a Truck

TOUCH-A-TRUCK
IN DOWNTOWN OPELIKA

Saturday, June 5, 2010 from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m.
RAIN DATE: Saturday, June 12, 2010,
same time, same place.

What is Touch-a-Truck?
On June 5th in downtown Opelika there will be trucks and
other vehicles of all shapes and sizes for children, under adult
supervision, to touch and explore. BRING YOUR CAMERA!!!

Who is planning and supporting Touch-a-Truck?
Touch-a-Truck is a joint project of Opelika Main Street, the Opelika Chamber of Commerce,
the City of Opelika, Keep Opelika Beautiful and Rusty Sheehan State Farm.

What kinds of vehicles will be on display?
A Fire Engine, a Mobile Command Unit, an Ambulance, a
School Bus, Construction and Military Equipment, a UPS Truck,
and many more!!! Children are encouraged to touch, climb an explore the trucks
(and even honk the horn if they’d like!)

How much will Touch-a-Truck cost?
In lieu of admission, each child is asked to bring a new toy to
be donated to the Lee County Sheriff's Office
Toys-for-Tots Program. Admission is free.

Thanks to these Touch-a-Truck Sponsors!!!
Lee County Sheriff Jay Jones, Smith T Building Supply,
Grady’s Tire and Auto, Rusty Sheehan State Farm,
ESG Operations, Opelika Light and Power and E.A. Investments.

Free Concert in the Park Thursday

Just a reminder about this week's Sundown Concert:

The May Sundown Concert Series at Town Creek Park continues on Thursday, May 13 at 6 p.m. with a performance by MUSE.  Join the City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Department every Thursday in May for live musical performances at Auburn’s newest park, located on South Gay Street. Citizens are encouraged to bring a blanket, chairs, and picnic and enjoy an evening of FREE musical entertainment. Additional parking for the concert is available at Wrights Mill Road Elementary School.

MUSE is an Auburn-based, three-person vocal/acoustic group that has been performing throughout the Southeast for 32 years.  The group has performed at events such as City Stages in Birmingham, Downtown Jam in Columbus, GA, and the SEC Basketball Tournament in New Orleans.  With two albums and one CD of original music to their credit, MUSE's unique style has evolved through careful attention to and particular emphasis on creative vocal harmonies.  With a repertoire of over 100 songs, the group boasts a number of original songs, as well as music by artists such as Van Morrison, Eric Clapton, Crosby, Stills and Nash, The Eagles, The Beatles, James Taylor, Jimmy Buffet, and Paul Simon.  Group members include Tom Harper on acoustic guitar and vocals; George Konstant on acoustic and electric guitars, mandolin, harmonica, and vocals; and Larry Shaw on electric bass and vocals.  Both Harper and Konstant are two of the group's original members.

Join us as we welcome MUSE to the stage at the May Sundown Concert Series at Town Creek Park.  For more information, visit www.auburnalabama.org/parks and click on the “Special Events” tab or contact the Dean Road Recreation Center at 501-2930.

Storytime at Mamunchis


Mamunchis is a new store in Opelika, AL and they are offering free story-times on Fridays:



Drop In Play Date and Story Time


Come and join us every Friday for play dates and story time. Mamunchis and It Takes a Village Enrichment Center is excited to offer a place where parent can network while their children play and learn.
Every Friday
12months to 4 years 10am-11am
Story Time *For all ages with books, songs, puppets! 11am-1130am
12 months and under 1130am-1230pm
$5/session for play date
Story time is FREE!

Forest Ecology Preserve is on Facebook

The Forest Ecology Preserve is a nature park located out on College Street past the fisheries.  Admission to the preserve is free to the public and it is open 7 days a week during sunlight hours.  There are hiking trails, a pond, a turtle habitat, a bird viewing area w/ scope, a butterfly garden, nature playground and lots of other cool things to explore there.  They are also always putting on various events that are usually interesting and cheap. 

They recently started a Facebook page where they are able to post a myriad of updates.  There are updates on there from upcoming events to hey the irises are blooming at the pond right now.  I would definitely recommend checking it out.


www.facebook.com/auburnpreserve

Tuesday, May 11, 2010

Red Baron House Party

I tried out a site called HouseParty.com recently.  I signed up, picked the Red Baron Pizza party and applied to be a host (just fill out a quick survey) and was accepted.  It was so nice.  They provided a ready made party, from organizing the invitations and guest list, to sending a box with party favors & decorating goodies, to dropping off 3 Red Baron Pan Pizzas and 2 Red Baron Pastas at my house before the party time.  It ended up being tons of fun and the food was great.  I barely got a bite of the pasta because it was gone so fast.  

If you want a $1.00 off coupon for Red Baron check out www.RedBaron.com/PanParty

Monday, May 10, 2010

Opelika Main Street

The stores on Opelika's Main Street Association have a facebook page.  This is a nice resource to see promotions and what's happening in Opelika if you want to check it out.

Sunday, May 9, 2010

Food Bank Celebration


On May 15th at 6 PM there will be a celebration for Caroline Donnelly's successful East Alabama Food Bank bicycle tour from St Augustine, FL to San Diego, CA.  Please also celebrate Robert (Dr. Death) Donnelly's 31 years of teaching at Auburn University! Please bring food or drink to share and a monetary donation to the East Alabama Food Bank.
As of May 4th the donations were : $875.00 and 3667 pounds of food. It is exciting to be at this point but we would love to meet or exceed the goals set in February.
Please RSVP via email to carolinedonnelly@bellsouth.net.
Thank you all!  Mrs .D really looks forward to hearing from you. If you will forward this invitation to all of your friends and family so they  too can participate too it would be very much appreciated.
 
Caroline and Bob

Thursday, May 6, 2010

Free Kids Workshop This Saturday

Lowes is offering a Free Kid's Workshop this Saturday May at 10 am

They have a kit that they give each kid along with an work apron.  It's a really nice and fairly easy activity to do with your kids.  Go to Lowe's website for more information and to register.

Free 8X10 Collage Print

Go to walgreens.com and you can get a free 8X10 Collage Photo Print using the promo code GOODTHOUGHTS.  Select in store pick up and you won't have to pay shipping fees.  I think it's valid through Saturday.

Thanks Centsible Mama




Stride Walkers


Looking to add a little more movement to your daily routine? Join the City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Department and the Auburn Stride Walkers every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday this month at 9 a.m. as they explore various City walking trails as a group.  Participants may walk at their own pace and distance. Join us for the following walks in May:
May  3 
Highway 14 Bike Path
Meet at Overtime Restaurant.

May   5   Auburn Technology Park-South
Located on Technology Pkwy (meet at pond)

May  7 
Auburn Public Library
Located at 749 East Thach Ave. 

May  10 Town Creek Park
Located on South Gay Street

May  12 Charlotte & Curtis Ward Bike Path
Located at entrance to Chewacla State Park  

May  14 
Jule Collins Smith Museum
Located off South College Street  

May  17
Kiesel Park
Located off Chadwick Lane

May  19 Ogletree Village Shopping Center
Meet in parking lot near Moores Mill Road

May  21 Hickory Dickory Park
1400 Hickory Ln & N. Cedarbrook

May  24
Yarbrough Tennis Complex
777 Yarbrough Farms Boulevard

May  26 
Auburn Soccer Complex
2340 Wire Road

May  28 Dean Road Recreation Center
Located at 307 South Dean Road

May  31 No Walk Due to City holiday 
          

This program is open to all ages and is free to the public.  Participants are encouraged to bring bottled water and wear comfortable walking shoes.  For more information, please contact Melissa Weldon at 501-2946 or Dee Watson at 501-2948.  Walks will not be held on rainy days.

Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Free Outdoor Concert at Town Creek Park

The Auburn Knights Orchestra will headline the first performance of the May Sundown Concert Series at Town Creek Park on Thursday, May 6 beginning at 6 p.m. Join the City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Department every Thursday in May for live musical performances at Auburn’s newest park, located on South Gay Street. Citizens are encouraged to bring a blanket, chairs, and picnic and enjoy an evening of FREE musical entertainment. Additional parking for the concert is available at Wrights Mill Road Elementary School.

The Auburn Knights Orchestra is 19-piece jazz big band based out of Auburn, AL and is thought to be one of the oldest big band organizations in the world. Formed in 1930 at what was then known as Alabama Polytechnic Institute (API), now known as Auburn University, the band organized to play for dances and other musical events throughout the school year. During the summer months, band members took their show on tour, playing swing music at many clubs and beach resorts throughout the Southeast. Early band members had the opportunity to play alongside music legends such as Count Basie, Frank Sinatra, Glenn Miller, Woody Herman, Tommy Dorsey, and Buddy Rich. Now celebrating its 80th year, the current band includes members from Auburn, Alexander City, and Columbus, GA. For more information on the Auburn Knights Orchestra, visit
www.auburnknights.com.

For more information, visit 
www.auburnalabama.org/parks and click on the “Special Events” tab or contact the Dean Road Recreation Center at 501-2930.

Summer Swing Concerts in Opelika

Summer Swing in Opelika is back again starting May 11th.  Go out and enjoy some music at Municipal Park in Opelika.  Last year they offered free train rides before the concert, I don't know if that'll be going on this year or not, but it's a lot of fun either way.

Here's the info:

Summer Swing Concerts in the Park begin Tuesday May 11th
4/21/2010  
  
2010 SUMMER SWING –“About the Artists”

May 11th           Lee Scott Academy Jazz Band  Jazz, Swing, Rock, Ballads and more!

May 18th             OHS Jazz Ensemble              Local talent, Jazz Rock, Swing & Jazz

May 25th            S.E. Alabama Community Band  58-member Band, Conducted by  Dr. Johnny Long, Troy Univ. Band Director Emeritus. Marches, Broadway Show Tunes & Classical Music

June 1st      Neil Diamond Tribute Artist Conner Lorre    is a top tier singer with a fun and unique talent. He dazzles his audiences as a singing voice impersonator.
Conner Lorre is clearly one of the best Neil Diamond voice impersonators in the world. Almost certainly the best you’ve ever heard.

June 8th        Route 66  This energetic group plays it all…Oldies, Pop, Rock and Dance music. Audience participation is encouraged…Join the ‘Monkey Park’ dancers on the grass around the stage as they dance, blow bubbles and have a great time!

June 15th      Kidd Blue   For almost 20 years Kidd Blue has been delivering their eclectic mix of Rock n’ Roll, Soul, R & B, 80’s and Jazz favorites to packed dance floors all over the southeast. With some of the most talented local and regional musicians on board, its no wonder Kidd Blue is a favorite choice for weddings, corporate events and fundraising galas from Chattanooga to Tampa. For more information:  www.kiddblue.com

 June 22nd    Bill J. Brooks -ELVIS Lives Concert – Top rated Elvis Tribute artist in the S.E. This show is dynamic, entertaining, moving and family friendly. Elvis fan or not, you are in for a rare treat. Thank you, Thank you very much!
                       
June 29th  Auburn University Summer Concert Band - 70 Pieces Conducted by Dr. Rick Good. A Variety of Band Music, Marches, Overtures, and Show-tunes will be featured.

July 6th     Muse – 20th  year on the Summer Swing Bandstand! Easy listening, vocal oriented acoustic soft rock played as only Muse can

July 13th  Crossroads      Provides an opportunity for listeners to enjoy the vocal  talents of Jessica Wilson.  Moving through contemporary and classic rock, country, and folk music Crossroads provides audiences with a unique and entertaining experience.  https://fp.auburn.edu/wilsodm/crossroads .

July 20th   The Fedoras  This acoustic duo plays folk, pop, and bluegrass tunes the whole family will enjoy.

July 27th   Martha’s Trouble -  nationally recognized Americana singers/songwriters. – “ have all the qualities that bands like 10,000 Maniacs with Natalie Merchant possessed - great songwriting, great melodies, and a great sense of timing." ~All Music Guide

August 3rd  - Fred Jones /The Good News Trio –Southern Gospel

August 10th   Route 66  Back to School Bash-  Enjoy a final concert as we bid summer farewell!

Muse Performing @ Noon Tunes in Opelika

Muse is performing today on Opelika Courthouse Square from noon until 1pm.  Free to the public as part of the NoonTunes Concert series.

Monday, May 3, 2010

Parks & Rec Brochure is Out

The Parks & Rec Brochure for Auburn came out today...and registration also started.  Not quite who's behind that oh so clever timing, but here's the info:

The City of Auburn Parks and Recreation Department's Summer Brochure will be available at City facilities beginning Monday, May 3.   To catch a sneak preview of summer camps, programs, and activities, download a copy of the brochure online at www.auburnalabama.org/parks/brochure.asp.

The brochure includes information on summer camps, programs, workshops, special events, and much more.  Registration for summer programs will be held weekdays from 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. at the Dean Road Recreation Center, 307 South Dean Road.  Registration begins Monday, May 3 and continues through Friday, May 28.  Don't delay, summer camps and programs fill up quickly!

For more information, contact the Dean Road Recreation Center at 501-2930.

CVS Gift Card Deal

For any who use CVS they have a promotion right now where for every $25 you spend on an e-gift card you get a free $5 gift card.

Thank you to Southern Savers for spotting this deal.  If you aren't familiar with www.SouthernSavers.com they also provide a list of all the good deals and coupon matchups that can be used at CVS.

Swagbucks Promotion

I mentioned swagbucks recently and then I saw this promotion they are running this week.  If you haven't signed up yet, you can sign up now and receive 50 free swagbucks by entering the code SWAGNATION5.  This should work through Friday May 7th at 3pm eastern.  

Speech by Rudy Giuliani


Tonight!  You can go and hear Rudy Giuliani speak in Auburn:

Campus Events - General
Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Beard-Eaves-Memorial Coliseum

Event is free and open to the public

First come, first served seating.  Please be seated by 6:45pm

Gnu's Room Events

Here's the latest from our favorite rare and used book store:

Tuesday, May 4th, 2:00 p.m. - The Write Time

Writers at any level of expertise are invited to meet each week at the
Gnu's Room for an hour of inspiration, sharing and information. The
meetings are facilitated by Helen Silverstein, editor of The Southern
Women's Review. Each week you are encouraged to bring copies of work
you wish to share and have edited. Those in the group who have the
time may volunteer to critique/edit.  Please limit the work you bring
to between 10 and 20 pages, since this is a weekly group. During at
least every other group meeting, there will be a brief presentation on
different writing techniques. If you would like to participate, but
the meeting time is not convenient, or if you have any questions about
the meetings, please email Helen at
sunflash1helen@sprint.blackberry.net.



Wednesday, May 5th, 5:30 p.m. - Coffee Cupping

Join Sarah Barnett, proprietor of Mama Mocha's Coffee Roastery at the
Gnu's Room, for a professional coffee cupping. Barnett will be
offering a cupping (tasting) every Wednesday. Space is limited and is
on a first come, first served basis.  Experience coffee from three
different regions and learn the subtle, and sometimes not so subtle,
differences in beans from various countries. If you participate in a
cupping, you may purchase the featured beans at a 25% discount on the
day of the cupping.



Friday, May 7th, 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m. - Celebrate Southern Belles

Amsterdam Cafe and the Gnu's Room are teaming up for a special event
just in time for Mother's Day. Former Auburn resident, Olivia deBelle
Byrd's recently published book, Miss Hildreth Wore Brown, Anecdotes of
a Southern Belle, will be featured at a luncheon and book signing.
Tickets for the event are $25.00 and include your choice of 1 of 3
delicious entrees, a non-alcoholic beverage, tax and gratuity, plus a
signed copy of the book. Ms. deBelle Byrd will be on hand to share
selections from the book and will be delighted to inscribe a copy of
the book for you or your favorite Southern Belle. Tickets are
available at the Gnu's Room through Thursday, May 6th. If you will not
be able to attend the luncheon, but would like a signed or inscribed
copy of the book, please call (334.821.5550) or email the Gnu's Room
to reserve a copy.

Olivia deBelle Byrd was born and bred in the South. She is a graduate
of Birmingham-Southern College and a Kappa Delta. She lived in Auburn
for a time and taught in the public school system. She now resides in
Panama City, Florida with her husband, Tommy, and is the proud mother
of Tommy, Jr. and Elizabeth. You may visit the author's website at
www.oliviadebellebyed.com



**EXPRESSIONS CAFE HAS BEEN MOVED TO FRIDAY, MAY 14th AT 7:00 p.m.**



Saturday, May 8th, 7:00 p.m. - Live Music with Jason Connelly

Jason Connelly makes a return concert appearance at the Gnu's Room. If
you missed his concert in February, you won't want to miss this chance
to hear his soulful sounds. If you have heard him before, there is no
doubt you will want to grab an opportunity to hear him again.

Connelly originally hails from Fort Meyers, Florida, but spent some
formative years in Smith's Station, Alabama before settling in the
Atlanta area. His vocal roots are from a gospel choir and they shine
through the delivery of his songs. Having spent 10 years traveling and
singing, Connelly is still learning and perfecting the craft of
songwriting, but he has a lot to share. He says, "In the beginning it
was all about melody and filling a floor. Now after years of open road
soul-searching, it's about life and all of its missed opportunities
and misguided emotions. If the floor fills this time, it's because I
said something worth hearing." There will be no cover for this event,
however, a suggested donation of $5.00 will go to the performer, and
he will also have CDs available for purchase. To sample Jason's music,
go to www.myspace.com/jasonconnelly


--
The Gnu's Room Bookstore & Coffee House
414 S Gay St
Auburn, AL 36830
334.821.5550
www.thegnusroom.com
Coffee-Books-Community

 

Sunday, May 2, 2010

Find us on Facebook!

It's about time, and we are finally on facebook.  If you are a Facebook user, (and really who isn't?) then you can "like" our page and get all the updates we post on the blog straight to your facebook news feed.
Check us out here.

Saturday, May 1, 2010

Mamunchis

I met a local mom the other day who is in the process of opening a new store in Opelika called Mamunchis.  The more she told me about it, the more interested I was so I thought I'd pass it along.  

Here's the info:

If you're on FB we have a fan page and all of our class descriptions are under the notes tab.
Our website is www.mamunchis.com and it should be published by Wednesday.  
The focus of our store is on organic, affordable and fair trade products for the growing family. We'll have organic play clothes, cloth diapers, body care products for the whole family, all types of nursing wear for breastfeeding. We'll also have Medela products and a lot of items from local moms. We want to create an outlet for local moms to sell their products too.

Our classes are going to include:

  • Mommy and me type classes like Kindermusik, Family Fun, Spanish for Toddlers and Art classes. 
  • Drop in playdates for $5 per child
  • Free story time on Fridays. 
  • Parent education classes including Infant and Child CPR, newborn care, Happiest Baby on the Block, breastfeeding classes, cloth diapering and babywearing classes. 
  • Free Nursing Cafe where breastfeeding moms can come and meet other moms, weigh the baby, enjoy some lactation tea and consult with our breastfeeding counselor.
 We're going to have a Ribbon Cutting and an Open House on Thursday from 4-7. We have refreshments and all of the toys out for the kids to play on. This will be when we open as well. 



Forest Fest: Songs in the Woods

Forest Fest at the Ecology Preserve is going on today.  The Ecology Preserve is really neat venue, and seems like this would be a lot of fun.

Information Below:

Forest Fest, Songs from the Woods
Join us for an afternoon of great music at the Forest Ecology Preserve!
May 1st
2:00-8:00 pm
$3.00 for A.U. students
$5.00 for all other


Featuring:
The Riverside Worship Project
Kristin Hines
Shawn O’Bryan
YT… aka Young and Talented
John Peterson

Artist -        Music Genre-    Times

Riverside Worship Project       Christian/Alternative Rock
       7:00-8:30 pm approximately

YT (Young and Talented) Rap/Hiphop      6:00-6:50 pm

Kristin Hines   Blues Rock      5:00-5:50 pm

John Crosland   Alternative Rock/Independent/Everything 4:00-4:50
pm


Shawn O’Brian   Country/Rock/Everything 3:00-3:50 pm

John Peterson   Folk    2:00-2:50 pm


A big thank you to James Cartee, my PR Intern for planning this event and to all the bands who are donating their time and talent to help  with this event. A special thanks to the Riverside Worship Project and Opelika First Baptist for providing all the equipment and stage!

For more information call Jen at 334-707-6512 or visit our new website ( still in the works) at  
www.auburn.edu/preserve or check us out at facebook.com/auburnpreserve

Friday, April 30, 2010

May Day at the Museum

Don't Forget May Day!  It's time to dance around the May-pole again.  On May 1st Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art will hold their annual May Day Celebration.  It is a lot of fun, especially if you have kids.  Information below:

A Community and Family Celebration

MAY 1, 2010
10 am to 4 pm
The Jule Collins Smith Museum of Fine Art at Auburn University will combine two of its most popular events, the 3rd Annual Gift Shop Craft Show and May Day Celebration for Saturday, May 1, 2010 from 10 am – 4 pm.
Local and regional artists will be selling their works, while Alabama traditional potter Jerry Brown, quilter Bettye Kimbrough, and fiddle maker Gene Ivey provide demonstrations. There will be live music, children’s art activities, food vendors and a festive community dance around the maypole.
Last year, the JCSM Craft Show had over 600 visitors who enjoyed browsing the selection of works in ceramics, jewelry, photography, textiles, and much more. This event combines activities for families and art enthusiasts alike. Join us at the museum to celebrate springtime and our regional artists.
Anyone interested in being an exhibitor in the Craft Show can contact
Carol Robicheaux at 334.844.3096 or robiccc@auburn.edu for more information.