Wiregrass Parents Summer Camp Issue April 2021 by KeepSharing

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• It’s safe, simple, and free of charge. • It could keep you from getting COVID-19. If you still get COVID-19, it could keep you from becoming seriously ill. • It will help you do your part to slow the spread of COVID-19 and protect the health of your family, your friends and your community. • It’s an mRNA vaccine. These types of vaccines have been studied for more than two decades to evaluate their safety and effectiveness. • It’s the first step toward life returning to normal.

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April2021

Volume 3 Number 8

Columns 2

From the Publisher Ashton Wright

Choosing the Right Day Camp

So many options...which is best for your child?

Considering Camp?

Seven benefits for you and your child.

The Early Years: Childcare Insights Kishia Saffold

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Kids Health Watch by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

35 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Summer Camp Guide Day, residential, sports camps and more!

Common Sense Media An ultimate guide to managing your child’s Instagram account.

Departments 5

Teacher of the Month

On The Cover (L to R): Lauren Peterson, 7, is the daughter of Shannon and Larry Peterson. She attends Holly Hill Elementary School. Naomi Bond, 7, is the daughter of Katie and Alan Bond. She attends Pinedale

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Mom to Mom

Elementary School. Braxton Booher, 6, is the son of Elizabeth and Anthony Booher. He attends the Enterprise Early Education Center. Justus Judah, 7, is the son of Christie and Jeremiah Judah. He attends Pinedale Elementary School. LesLee Sikes, 7, is the daughter of Pamela and Lee Sikes. She attends Pinedale Elementary School.

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FromThePublisher The Area’s Go-To Resource for Families

One year. That’s how long it’s been since we went on the Spring Break that turned into summer and introduced phrases like social distancing and flatten the curve. It’s been twelve months of avoiding crowds, ordering out instead of dining in, and missing out on milestones like graduation, birthdays, and family holidays. On the surface, the past year looks pretty awful, but it hasn’t been all bad. We traded eating in crowded, noisy restaurants for more time around our own dinner tables having meaningful conversations. When we couldn’t visit our favorite stores, we learned how to shop smarter. And being at home more consistently led us to improve several aspects of our home, most notably the backyard. Now, one year later, things are starting to look up. People are getting vaccinated, restrictions are easing up, and businesses are starting to rebound. There is light at the end of the tunnel, people, and it’s a beautiful thing. It’s hard to believe that summer is just around the corner. Does your family have plans yet? After a year of being stuck at home together, I’m sure you’re looking for ways to get the kids out of the house some. Well, I’ve got good news for you: Camps are back! There are plenty of options right here in the Wiregrass. You can explore those, as well as some pretty cool regional overnight camps, in our annual Summer Camp Guide. You’ll definitely want to make your decisions early this year, as most camps have fewer spaces due to COVID still being an issue. If you’re not sure camp is right for your child or don’t know how to narrow down the choices, be sure to check out our feature articles, 7 Reasons Parents Should Consider Sending Their Child to Camp and Choosing the Right Day Camp for Your Child. Also in this issue, an inspiring interview with one of my most favorite women in the Wiregrass. Harolyn Benjamin has been my friend for going on a decade now, and her words of wisdom are always on point. Even when she’s going through a tough time, she still chooses joy and never misses an opportunity to give back to this community. Fair warning, you may want to grab a tissue before you read her story. Spring is officially sprung in the Wiregrass, and our April calendar certainly reflects the season. There are lots of family-friendly events happening throughout the month, including the Wiregrass Hope Group’s Family FitFest and the Superhero 5K Run/Walk to Prevent Child Abuse. The most special date circled on my calendar is my daughter’s 6th birthday. My artloving girl is well on her way to becoming an independent reader and is learning how to tie her own shoes. She’s becoming more independent and can officially fold and put away her own laundry. Pretty soon she’ll be graduating kindergarten. I hope you and your family find reasons to get out and enjoy all that the Wiregrass has to offer this time of year. Except maybe the pollen. Okay, definitely the pollen.

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

Publisher Ashton Wright ashton@wiregrassparents.com (334) 714-7831 Editor DeAnne Watson editor@wiregrassparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Contributing Writers Sandra Gordon Christina Katz Dave Ramsey Kishia Saffold Deron V. Sharpe, MD Cover Photography Lauren Poss www.lollypossphotography.com

President Jason Watson Advertising Sales Ashton Wright ads@wiregrassparents.com (334) 714-7831 Ad Design Tim Welch

Visit us at www.wiregrassparents.com

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ashton@wiregrassparents.com

Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

Wiregrass Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: PO Box 1882, Dothan AL 36302. The phone number for voice is (334) 714-7831. Wiregrass Parents is copyrighted 2021 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Wiregrass 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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TheEarlyYears Childcare Insights from Kishia Saffold

Teaching Children About Feelings Recently, I encountered a situation where a parent observed a student hit their toddler. Needless to say, the parents were upset to see their child struck in a seemingly unprovoked manner. I can only imagine the disappointment they felt when I told them, unfortunately, this is part of the learning process and it would likely happen again. It can be difficult to teach kids about feelings because it’s a fairly abstract concept most often taught by demonstrating the right (or wrong) response, but it is important to teach kids about their emotions as early as possible since their feelings affect every choice they make. Because young children don’t have the vocabulary to tell us what they’re feeling, they show us by throwing temper tantrums and having meltdowns. We first need to teach children the words to express their feelings by using “feeling words” in their daily vocabulary. Model how to express feelings

Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

appropriately by taking opportunities to share your feelings. A great way to help kids learn about feelings is to discuss how various characters in books or TV shows may feel. Pause to ask, “How do you think he feels right now?” Then, discuss the feelings the character may be experiencing and the reasons why. I often tell parents we model good and bad behavior to our children every single day. If you tell your child to use his words when he’s angry, but he witnesses you throw your phone after an argument or use bad words when you get cut off in traffic, your words won’t be effective. Often, kids don’t know what to do when they feel upset, so they become aggressive or exhibit attention-seeking behaviors. It’s our responsibility to teach them healthy ways to deal with angry and sad feelings. They need to learn it’s never okay to hit, spit, or throw objects when they’re upset. We have to make

it our mission to proactively teach our children how to deal with uncomfortable emotions and how to resolve conflict peacefully. It’s important we teach our kids effective coping skills because kids who understand their emotions are less likely to act out by using temper tantrums, aggression, and defiance to express themselves. A child who can say “I’m mad at you” is less likely to hit, and a child who can say “That hurts my feelings” is better equipped to resolve conflict peacefully. At the end of the day, our ultimate goal is to have a child who will be confident that they can handle whatever life throws their way. Kishia Saffold is the owner of Kiddie Care Learning Center in Dothan and Enterprise. She has a Masters of Business Administration from Troy University and a B.A. in Communication from Alabama State University. She is a wife to Jeffery and mother to daughter, Kiera.

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Pamela Bishop Rehobeth Elementary School

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difference in our world, through one student at a time, is very highly motivating.” Those students, Bishop says, are the most rewarding part of teaching. “Each day is an opportunity to work with young minds. No two days are ever alike! I have found that most children are unjaded, full of hope and wonder! Everything is still possible in their minds. Children are naturally optimistic. They usually have the best knock-knock jokes. My students always keep me smiling and entertained.” And they also impart lessons. This school year, Bishop says her students have taught her how to be brave, strong and resilient. She says so much has been asked of our children this year amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, but that she couldn’t be prouder of her students. “They have accepted each restriction and challenge without complaint,” she says. “Through it all, my students have taught me that learning goes on, and life is beautiful, even during a pandemic!”

Kacey Williams’s daughter is in Pamela Bishop’s third grade class at Rehobeth Elementary School. “My daughter’s teacher is amazing! She loves all of her students like her own, goes above and beyond to help them succeed, and helps them to love school! My daughter can’t wait to go to school every day.” Pamela Bishop has been a teacher for seven years, but the classroom wasn’t her original intended career destination. “While completing my undergraduate degree in psychology, I began substitute teaching to supplement my income. As a sub, I really enjoyed the time in the classroom, teaching, and interacting with the students. It was then,” she says, “I knew teaching was for me. I did complete my B.S. in psychology, but rather than continuing in the master’s program in psychology as I had originally planned, I changed the path to education.” It’s a decision Bishop says she’s never regretted. “When I look around the classroom, I see students who will one day become tomorrow’s leaders. As a teacher, and agent of change, I have an opportunity each day to teach, inspire, influence, and make a positive impact in students’ lives. The ability to truly make a

Pamela Bishop received her Masters in Elementary Education and B.S. in Psychology from Troy University. She and her husband, Darrell, have two daughters, Gabrielle Bishop Irwin and Hannah Bishop Loftin, two sons-in-law, Cody Irwin and Sam Loftin, and two granddaughters, Audrey Beatrix and Ophelia Joan. They also have a French bulldog, Lily Bleu.

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Family Fit Fest

Superhero 5K Run/Walk to Prevent Child Abuse

Saturday, April 17, 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Westgate Park, 501 Recreation Rd., Dothan AL 36303 WiregrassHopeGroup.com; (334) 793-5433 Come work out and raise money for Wiregrass Hope Group at our Family FitFest (presented by Southeast Health). Let’s teach our kids about the importance of moving our bodies! Go station to station exercising and learning wellness tips. Easy enough for the whole family to do together. Or come by yourself. Do as few or as many stations as you want. Virtual option: We’ll give you a workout you can do from home. Fitness Stations: Orangetheory workout, Taekwondo (ATA Dothan), Westgate Park Fitness Court (City of Dothan Leisure Services), Bike Ride, One-Mile Run, and more. Wellness Stations: Fire Safety/Fire Truck (Dothan Fire Dept.), Nutrition, Financial health (Five Star Credit Union), Mental health (Blayne Hardy Barfield Foundation), and more.

Saturday, April 24, 8:00 a.m. Westgate BMX Track, 501 Recreation Rd., Dothan AL 36303 Cost: 5K: $25 w/ Shirt, $20 w/o Shirt | Fun Run: $15 w/ Shirt, $10 w/o Shirt | Shirt Only: $25 | Sponsor a Child: $15 Let’s all join together and be a community of Superheros for children! Mike Schmitz Automotive Group, along with the Exchange Center for Child Abuse Prevention, would like to invite you to be a Superhero for kids! We’ll have a one-mile fun run kids at 9am! Register now at https://www.exchangecap.org/events Call Pam at 671-1966. **Preregistration is encouraged.

A...My Name is Alice

April 6-10, 7:00 p.m. nightly Cultural Arts Center 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan AL 36301 Tickets: $20; www.seact.com Enjoying a long Off Broadway run in the 80’s, this slick and lively revue was created by a wide variety of comedy writers, lyricists and composers. The show offers a marvelous kaleidoscope of contemporary women. Sophisticated, bawdy, funny and insightful, the twenty numbers portray friends, rivals, sisters and even members of an all women’s basketball team. Content advisory: for mature audiences. Directed by Ron Devane.

Festival in the Park

Saturday, May 1, 3:00 p.m. Johnny Henderson Family Park 300 Hwy 167 N., Enterprise AL Join us for a free event that is fun for ALL ages! Festival in the Park will have many exciting attractions including live music, food trucks, carnival games, pony rides, inflatable games, train rides, birdhouse painting, fireworks and more! Featuring live bands! *Montage - 3PM - 5PM and *Glory Days - 6PM - 8PM. This year, attractions will be adequately spaced apart to avoid crowding and to encourage safe social distancing opportunities. Sanitizing stations will be readily available throughout the event grounds.

A Grand Adventure

April 22-24,29-30 and May 1,3-4,6-8,10-11,13-15 6:00 p.m. nightly, Tickets: $50-55 Southern Broadway Dinner Theater 104 N. Main St., Enterprise AL 36330 www.southernbroadway.com (334) 470-6568 Come witness a “nature-loving” young family as they struggle to start their unique business and embrace one of the most breathtaking places on earth. On the Menu 1st Course: Navajo Chips served with Cowboy Caviar 2nd Course: Grilled Chicken and Steak Fajitas served Refried Beans, Grilled Onions and Peppers, Rice and all the trimmings 3rd Course: Native American Fry Bread served with butter and honey Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

Spanish Trail Opry

Saturday, April 10, 7:00 p.m. Spanish Trail Playhouse 680 2nd St., Chipley FL 32428 Featuring songs of the legends by talented local artists, the Spanish Trail Opry is an annual event performed in the style of The Grand Ole Opry. It is a show, full of traditional country music, that features some of the areas best singers and musicians along with the talented Spanish Trail Playhouse Band. Tickets are $15.00 each for reserved seating. Tickets go on sale March 8, 2021. For further information, call The Spanish Trail Playhouse Office at (850)638-9113. The office is open Monday-Thursday from 8 am-12 pm CST. Also, visit www.spanishtrailplayhouse.com for tickets. 6

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Wiregrass Children’s Home Benefit Color Run

Zoo Weekends Saturdays in April

2301 Coliseum Parkway, Montgomery, AL 9:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. Daily Admission: Adults $17, Ages 3-12 $13, 2 & Younger Free Montgomeryzoo.com It’s like Zoo Weekend with a twist. Or should I says twists? In order to provide a safe and healthy environment for all our guests, Zoo Weekend is going to be held over four Saturdays in April (April 3, 10, 17 and 24). Guests will be LIMITED to 4,000 per Saturday. So purchase your tickets today! Each Saturday will provide a slightly different experience. So come to one; or better yet, come to them all. You and your guests are guaranteed to have fun time and an awesome wildlife experience. No daily admission discounts will be provided during Zoo Weekend(s). Also, no member GUEST PASSES will be eligible for admission during this special event. Zoo Weekend(s) is a spring fundraising event for the Zoo and its expansion.

Saturday, May 1, 9:00 a.m. Kiwanis Park, 1715 Whatley Dr., Dothan AL 36303 wiregrasschildrenshome.org Come join the most colorful fundraiser around! ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO DIRECTLY TO THE WIREGRASS CHILDREN’S HOME! $25 a runner will include an opening ceremony color packet to start the festivities off, a logo white tshirt to show off all your color, and a medal at the end! Walk, run, jog, and stroll the 5k (3 mile) track around Kiwanis Park in Dothan. Every mile you will have even more color thrown on you! Business Sponsorships needed! $500 sponsor will have your logo on our tshirt, and signage at the event! We have decided to offer a VIRTUAL option for all of our supporters. Sign up today, and we’ll mail your tshirt & medal by May 1, 2021. Online registration will open soon!

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Tourette Syndrome Tourette Syndrome, also known as motor and vocal tics disorder, is common among children causing them to make sudden, brief, and purposeless movements. These tics often involve movements of the neck, blinking the eyes, grimacing, shrugging of shoulders, sniffing, snorting, or clearing the throat. Vocal tics are frequently confused with allergy-related symptoms but will not commonly have other signs or symptoms to support an allergy diagnosis. Motor events can be like stereotypies (discussed in my last article), but with tics there is a tension, or irritation, that builds with attempts to suppress the movement. The child may say the movements are out of their control/involuntary but would be more appropriately termed as difficult to resist (think of a gnat or fly landing on your face; you choose to brush it away and it can be hard to resist doing so). Tic onset can be explosive and typically occurs between 2 and 15 years of age. The tics are typically most bothersome between

Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

8 to 12 years of age, and commonly improve with age, but not always. Half will report that their tics have resolved by age 18. Tics can be distracting, uncomfortable, and frustrating to the one affected. Social influences such as teasing and exclusion tend to be the major motivation to symptomatic treatment. Testing should not be performed when symptoms are very consistent with Tourette Syndrome. Doctors should consider inflammatory states (PANDAS, Sydenham, vasculitis) and neurometabolic disorders (Wilson, Huntington) when evaluating tics, but these are accompanied by other symptoms and the diagnosis can typically be easily narrowed. Most children with tics do not require treatment. The diagnosis of Tourette Syndrome or Primary Tic Disorder is generally reassuring, as they are not a sign of progressive neurological or mental illness. Families should expect that symptoms will often wax and wane on their own but may be exacerbated by medications (stimulants

for ADHD and some medications used for mood or seizures), caffeine, and mood/stress. Some can benefit from the use of medications to suppress the sensations that bring on the movements, but these should not be used if the tics do not bother the child’s life. Neuroleptics (a drug class commonly used to treat schizophrenia) are with the strongest influence with tic symptom reduction, but drugs with fewer side effects like Guanfacine are often tried first. Generally, tics are quick to grab the attention of parents but then relieving when they know the course is benign.

Dr. Deron V. Sharpe is certified in child neurology by the American Board of Psychiatry and Neurology. He joined Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network in January, 2015. Dr. Sharpe resides in Dothan with his wife and three children. He enjoys fitness, softball, home improvement, and gardening.

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Highlands Elementary Recognizes Science Fair Winners

Wacky Wednesday became extremely special when ACOM arrived to pass out awards to our students that placed in the City Science Fair. Congratulations to you all. We are proud you! Elementary Division - 1st Place- Colton Register & Gabriel Price, 3rd place- Anna Lee Steltenpohl, Elle Barron, Erin McKinley, Honorary Merit- Iysa Duddy, Bailee Weidert Middle School Division - 1st place in Behavioral/Social Science - Ariel Lumbatis; 1st place-Energy: Chemical and PhysicalJeffrey Torrence; 2nd place- Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Material Science- Maysen Duddy; 2nd place- Medicine/Health Science- Taylor Forehand; 3rd place- Medicine/Health scienceJulian Gallegos and Olivia Stewart

Battles Wins DHS Resume Contest

Congratulations to Kayla Battles for winning the Dothan High School Resume Contest. Battles is a Senior. Upon graduation, she plans to attend the University of Alabama and major in Pre-Law. The Resume Contest was sponsored by MidSouth Bank and judged by Personnel Resources. As the contest winner, Battles received a $100 prize donated by MidSouth Bank. A regional contest for the county winners will be held in April and will be sponsored by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative and Southeast Alabama Works. Pictured are Mr. Bill Singleton, Principal, Ms. Kayla Battes, DHS Senior and contest winner, Mr. Mason Morrow, Market President for MidSouth Bank and Ms. Jessica Barefield, Community Relations Coordinator for MidSouth Bank.

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10% of ASMS Senior Class Named National Merit Finalists

Hall Wins Abbeville Resume Contest

Congratulations to Karly Hall for winning the Abbeville High School Resume Contest. Hall is a Senior. Upon graduation, she plans to attend Troy University in Montgomery and doublemajor in Business and Music. The Resume Contest was sponsored by PeoplesSouth Bank and judged by Personnel Resources. As the contest winner, Hall received a $100 prize donated by PeoplesSouth Bank. A regional contest for the county winners will be held in April and will be sponsored by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative and Southeast Alabama Works. Pictured are Mrs. Brittany Davis, Consumer Lender for PeoplesSouth Bank; Ms. Karly Hall, AHS Senior and contest winner and Mr. Darryl Brooks, Principal.

10% of seniors in the Alabama School of Mathematics and Science (ASMS) Class of 2021 have been named National Merit Finalists by the National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC) for a total of seven students in all – a significantly high number compared to other high schools of similar size. These students are in the top 1% of high school seniors in the nation. Becoming a National Merit Finalist can open significant opportunities for students to receive scholarship funding from institutions of higher education and other organizations. Many in-state institutions in Alabama provide full tuition scholarships and/or fully paid room and board. National Merit Scholarship winners will be announced in spring of 2021. ASMS National Merit Finalists: Joseph Hulcher, Mobile County Emma Joly, Baldwin County Veda Joshi, Houston County Gregory Li, Baldwin County Elijah Velaski, Baldwin County Tabitha Watson, Jefferson County Cary Xiao, Tuscaloosa County Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

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Ludlam Wins Headland Resume Contest

Congratulations to Kaylee Ludlam for winning the Headland High School Resume Contest. Ludlam is a Senior. Upon graduation, she plans to attend Troy University her major is currently undecided, but she is leaning towards Biomedical Science. The Resume Contest was sponsored by HNB First Bank and judged by Personnel Resources. As the contest winner, Ludlam received a $100 prize donated by HNB First Bank. A regional contest for the county winners will be held in April and will be sponsored by PowerSouth Energy Cooperative and Southeast Alabama Works. Pictured are Mr. Dwight Gamble, President and CEO for HNB First Bank; Ms. Kaylee Ludlam, HHS Senior and contest winner and Mr. Jason Bradford, Principal.

Lorax STEAM Challenge

Third-grade students in Mrs. Fundum’s class celebrated Read Across America Week with a Read-A-Thon celebration and a STEAM challenge! After the class listened to the book The Lorax, the students were asked to build the largest Truffala tree with their materials. The students worked in groups to plan and design their Truffala trees. At the end of the activity, we measured to see who had the tallest Truffala! Students also enjoyed some delicious treats as they read their favorite books!

Beverlye 6th Grader Places 2nd in Science Fair

Congratulations to all the ACOM Science Fair participants from Beverlye. They ALL did a fabulous job! Shout out to Hayley Chavez, 6th grader, for winning 2nd place overall in the category of chemical and physical energy.

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Lakeside Softball Wins Tournament

Lakeside Softball Team won the Lowndes Softball Tournament. They played 6 games and only fell short once. They hit 13 homeruns in those 6 games! Our head coach is J. Grant and the assistant is Caleb Smith.

Highlands SGA Design Egg for “Egg Quest”

Highlands SGA Candy Grams

The SGA from Highlands Elementary participated in the Botanical Gardens Egg Quest. They worked together to think of a design. They chose “Sweet Home Alabama” and drew items that depict Alabama culturally and physically. They also included masked figures since that is something happening presentday in Alabama. Mrs. Kravulski, the art teacher, assisted with helping them sketch their ideas.

The SGA sold candy grams at Valentine’s Day to raise money for their club. They plan to use this money in a way to benefit the school.

Hidden Lake 1st Grader Wins Piano Contest

Dothan Tech Students Shine at State HOSA Conference

What an awesome two days at the Alabama HOSA State Leadership Conference! DTC came home with one scholarship winner and two competitive event winners! We also said a tearful farewell to our outgoing state officer, but celebrated as we watched our second state officer candidate be elected Vice President of Membership! Here’s to moving on to the International Leadership Conference and year two of representing the state of Alabama on the HOSA Executive Committee! Awards: Carrie Elaine Smith, HOSA Scholarship Recipient; 3rd Place Biomedical Lab Science, Shelby Branch; 5th Place Medical Law and Ethics Outgoing State Officer: Carrie Elaine Smith; Newly Elected State Officer: Olivia Burgess

Coppinville Jr. High 7th Grader Elected State Beta VP

Courson Named SDMS Teacher of the Year

Congratulations to Mrs. Karen Courson, the South Dale Middle School Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Courson is currently a collaborative teacher at South Dale Middle School.

Congratulations to CJHS 7th grader, Ayden Perkins, newly elected Alabama BETA State Vice President! Also congratulations to Raedyn Weems of Dauphin Junior High School the newly elected Alabama BETA State Secretary!

Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

Congratulations Rishaan Koteel. He was a winner in the Sonatina Piano Festival in Enterprise! He is a first grade student in Ms. Poland’s class.

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Enterprise HS Scholars Bowl Team Advances to State

The EHS Scholars Bowl team competed in the Alabama Scholastic Competition Association District Tournament on March 5th. They finished 3rd Place in their division and qualified for the State Tournament on May 15th. Congratulations to our entire Scholars Bowl Team and our District Tournament Team: Caroline Parrish, Isabella Holtz, Jaeeun Ha, Ethan Smith, Ethan Kimball, Ian Gillis

Houston Academy MS Model UN Team Places at Meet

Lakeside Golf Team Wins Invitational

There were 10 teams from the Wiregrass area at the recent event. Our MS team represented the country of Haiti in their competition March 4-5 and received several awards. The team received 1st Alternate for Outstanding Delegation. Megan Hartman won Best Girl Delegate and Amulya Reddy received 1st Alternate for Best Girl Delegate. Team members include: Emily Selig, Megan Hartman, Merrill Scarbrough, Amulya Reddy, and Reina Sturridge

Lakeside fired a 320 and beat second place Morgan by 7 strokes at the Glenwood Invitational Tournament at Lakewood in Phenix City. Harris Bennett shot 76, Rhodes Bennett 77, Peyton Reeves 83, Collins Mitchell 84, and Matthew Welk 92. So proud of these gentlemen and their hard work.

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Girard Intermediate Stocks Salvation Army Pantry

GIS has answered the call to fill the shelves with canned food for the local Salvation Army. Students brought in over 500 canned food items to support the community! Mrs. Kemp’s class was named the “Souper” Bowl Champions by bringing in over 200 cans! Thank you GIS families for thinking of others.

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E Enterprise Boys Basketball Runners Up in State Championship

The Enterprise High School boy’s basketball team defeated Mary G. Montgomery 51-45 to become the 7A Region 4 Champions in February. They advanced to the Final Four in Birmingham where they defeated Spain Park 57-56 before losing out to Oak Mountain 37-41 in the championship game.

Heard Student Wins District Science Fair

Highlands 2nd Grader Wins Local Art Contest

ACOM representatives visited Heard to present our Wiregrass District Science Fair participants with their awards and certificates! We are very proud of all of our participants, Mary Kate Gowen, Connor Josefosky and Zyerihanna Pugh! We are so excited for Mary Kate Gowen, she won First Place in the Wiregrass District Science Fair!

Ivey Mathis, a 2nd grader at Highlands Elementary School, won the Our New Baby Art Contest.

Carroll High Social Studies Classes Study Authentic WWII Memorabilia

CHS School Resource Officer, Sgt. Glenn, recently shared WWII German propaganda cards with Instructional Coach, Rachel Povlacs, to highlight in Social Studies classrooms. Coach Suber’s history classes were the first to see these primary sources first hand. Students were informed about different ways the Nazi regime used propaganda to reach the public and how to evaluate propaganda. Students analyzed the images, symbolism, messaging, potential audience, and effectiveness of the propaganda before using available tech tools to translate the text of the cards. Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

Highlands Students Among Youth Art Month Winners

Mrs. Kravulski entered several students’ art work from Highlands Elementary into the Wiregrass Museum of Art’s Youth Art Month Contest. Here are the following winners: Mary Marks, Katalina Walden, Eliza Donop (not pictured), Elliot Kravulski, Harper Bergeron, Emmalyn Sutton, Marley Norton, Megan Gray, Colton Register, Lilly Mathis, Abby Blevins, and Julian Gallegos. 14

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Northside Methodist Fall Blood Drive Sees Growth

48 donors! Way to go Northside! Thank you students, parents, teachers and staff for helping us respond to the need. This blood drive was dedicated to our very own, Ms. Parmer. As long as she was able, Ms. Parmer gave blood, and during our fall blood drive, her classroom incentives produced the biggest turnout in NMA history. She continues to inspire us to respond to the needs of others with a spirit of generosity.

Enterprise Senior’s Drawing Wins Best in Show

Congratulations to EHS senior Summer Burress, who won Best in Show for the Secondary Division at the State Superintendent Visual Arts Exhibit for her drawing “Constricting Forces.” She was honored at the Alabama State Board of Education meeting March 11th. Send Your School News to: schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com.

Aubrey Myers Wins EHS Resume Contest

Aubrey Myers was recently named the school winner of the PowerSouth Energy Cooperative/Southeast AlabamaWorks Resume Contest for Enterprise High School. Local sponsor of the contest is All In Credit Union. Myers was awarded a $100 prize by All In Credit Union. Aubrey Myers will now compete on the county level, which includes other winners from Elba High School, Kinston High School, New Brockton High School, and Zion Chapel High School. The county winner will be awarded a $250 scholarship from PowerSouth. County winners will then advance to the regional contest in April. They will spend a day together for individual panel interviews and hear professional success stories from area residents. They will also attend a luncheon where the overall winner will be announced, and Business Council of Alabama CEO, Katie Boyd Britt, will bring a keynote address. Each county winner will be evaluated on his/ her resume and a panel interview. The overall winner will receive a $1,000 scholarship from PowerSouth.

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Day camps come in all shapes and sizes, appealing to a range of interests and ages. Here’s how to find a camp that invests in your youngster by creating an unforgettable xperience where they’ll meet new friends, gain self-confidence and learn new skills --all while giving you peace of mind.

If you have thirty minutes or more to listen, ask Antonio what he dreams of being in ten years. WE DO WHAT WE DO BECAUSE CHILDREN HAVE DREAMS.

Begin with basics. First determine

your schedule needs. Some camps are only a few hours a day while others are structured to work well with a working parent’s schedule. Figure out if you’ll need to arrange before or after care. From there, seek a camp with “caring staff, fun programs and a dedication to the health and safety of the campers,” says DD Gass, a director of camps and school-age services for a faith-based community center.

Match the camp with your child’s interests. From computer

coding to robotics and sports, day camps offer kids the opportunity to try all kinds of new activities. If your child isn’t interested in a camp that specializes in one activity, choose a more traditional camp that offers a wide range of activities throughout the session. “Make sure there’s a healthy balance between structure and choice,” says Jim Spearin, senior vice president of Youth Development for the YMCA.

1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H BIRMINGHAM, AL 35233 (205) 638-9100 | ChildrensAL.org

Consider the culture. Ask for referrals from trusted family and friends.”Choose a camp that welcomes parents as partners in their experience,” Spearin says. “Parents should always feel welcome to come visit during camp. There should be planned activities for both parent and camper to enjoy together such as special events or campouts.” 17

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Seek qualified, organized staff. Camp

employees should be licensed, certified and trained in sexual/child abuse prevention, first aid and CPR. Find out how camp leaders are supervised and how they plan for emergencies, including natural disasters, intruders and other threats. Also consider the child-to-staff ratio. Will your child feel lost in a group that’s too big, even if it meets state criteria? “It’s vitally important for staff to have child development knowledge and experience to ensure that appropriate, engaging and enriching activities are offered,” says Katrina Ball, a childcare resource and referral director.

Try it before you buy. Attend a camp expo or camp fair, whether virtual or in-person, to find out what options exist in the area. Some organizations

Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

feature their own camp fairs and minicamps during the spring for families to try. “As a parent you know your child best and what program would be best for them. Trust your instincts,” Ball says.

Calm butterflies. Many youngsters

have a hard time adjusting to new situations and people and may feel scared or intimidated. Include them in the process

of choosing a camp. Discuss the schedule of activities and what a typical day will look like. “Children can help pack their lunch (if needed) and pack their backpack with the items they’ll need for camp. This helps them know what they have in their backpack and know what they will need to bring home,” Gass says. Find out if one of your child’s friends would like to attend the camp with him. Attending orientations, visiting the camp site and meeting the staff prior to the beginning of camp can also help reduce any pre-camp jitters. WP

Freelance journalist, Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two happy day campers. Christa’s latest book is Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

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screen hiatus, especially during the summer months. Spending time outdoors, learning a new skill, having fun, and forming new friendships is good for the body and soul!

If you have never sent your kids to a summer camp, here are 7 reasons why you should consider it!

With so many options, it’s easy to find a great fit for your child. From sports camps and art camps to STEM-based camps

Sending kids to camp is beneficial for you, too. Driving

away from your child(ren) on the first day might be a little gutwrenching. But entrusting your kids to someone else for a while can be truly beneficial. Maybe it will free up time for some overdue self-care, or give you and your partner time to reconnect. Maybe it will provide an opportunity to hit the reset button with your tween or teen. After all, absence makes the heart grow fonder! Parenting is tough work, so don’t feel guilty if you enjoy this time to yourself. Chances are, your kids are having a blast without you!

and more traditional overnight options, summer camps are designed to serve a variety of ages and interests. The length of camp can range from a few mornings for younger kiddos to weeklong sleep-away camps for older kids. Local churches, school districts, and other organizations like the YMCA, Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Camp Fire, and 4-H offer a wide range of camps. With a little bit of research, you can easily find a camp well-suited for your child.

Camps provide kids with experiences they might not have access to in “everyday” life. Horseback riding. Paddling

Your child’s experience as a camper could help land a summer job in the future. Camps are staffed by amazing

a canoe across the lake. Wilderness survival. Conquering a ropes course. Sleeping under the stars. Adventures are endless at camp, and your child will have an opportunity to try something brand new. For the youngest campers, trying a new craft activity or learning a new camp song can be so much fun!

counselors who provide kids with all kinds of good, clean fun. Most of these counselors were campers once, too. Now they get to help a new set of youngsters make unforgettable summer memories, all while sharpening their own teamwork and leadership skills. Your child might have that same opportunity one day. What great way to spend a summer!

Camps are a safe place to practice social skills. It might be awkward or uncomfortable for your child during those first few hours of camp when they don’t know a single soul. After all, stepping into a new social environment can be challenging. But the ability to comfortably communicate with new people is a life skill that all kids need, and a camp is a great place to practice! Camps also provide kids an opportunity to form friendships.

Camp is just plain fun. So many adults have fond memories from their days spent at camp, and kids who have been to camp often say it’s a favorite part of their summer. Odds are, your kids are going to love it! And for that reason alone, it’s worth sending them to camp. WP

Mary Ann Blair is a mom of two boisterous boys. Besides chronicling her adventures in motherhood at maryannblair.com, she loves the outdoors, reading, and all things crafty.

Camps give kids a much-needed technology break. No

matter how old your child is, they could probably benefit from a

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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!

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Whether you want them to experience day or overnight camp, sports or fine arts, our listing has details on these and many more. It’s time to get your campers ready for summer fun!

2021

Guide

Day Camps/Programs Adventure Days ad on page 31

Landmar Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 If you are ready for a great outdoor adventure, this three day program is for you! We will spend one day exploring another local park, one day learning basic canoeing skills and one day exploring a geological wonder right here in the Wiregrass. This camp is packed full of adventures! Please note, this is a three day camp. Dates: June 28-July 2 & July 12-16 Ages: 9-12 years Cost: Members $100; Non-Members $115 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Aerospace Expedition ad on page 31

Landmar Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 This camp takes flight and immerses campers into space and aviation! Campers will get to have hands-on experiences through art, games, and even test their own theories with their own experiments. This camp will allow campers to learn the history of Aerospace and look forward to being a part of its future!Earth has had so many advancements through racing into space. Aerospace Expedition will allow campers to join the race! Ready. Set. GO! Dates: June 14-18 Ages: 9-12 years Cost: Members $90, Non-Members $105 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

of nests. We will make comparisons between the homes found at Landmark Park and our own homes, as well as how changes in weather can affect the animal homes. Dates: July 26-30 Ages: 4-5 years Cost: Members $75; Non-Members $90 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Camp Champion ad on Back Cover

Walton Park Recreation Center, 122 Walton Park Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Camp Champion will provide a happy and healthy summer of fun for boys and girls ages 6 -9. We will offer a mixture of sports, games, field trips, arts & crafts, special events, theme days, camp contests, free two-week swimming lessons, and more. All campers will enjoy customized schedules that are both age and gender specific. A wide variety of activities keeps every day fresh and exciting; each week will feature a unique set of events, adventures, and contests. Put it all together and get a camp experience that is loaded with friendship, fun, and lasting memories! Volunteer opportunities are available for junior counselors ages 13 – 15. Free breakfast, lunch and snacks are included in the registration fee. Camp will conform to the CDC and State safety guidelines. Dates: June 14-August 6, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6-9 years Cost: $60 per Child / $30 per Child with free/reduced lunch waiver (334) 615-4710 swingfield@dothan.org www.dothanlesiureservices.org

Camp Choctaw ad on Back Cover

Animal Architects ad on page 31

Landmar Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 There are many different animals that call Landmark Park home. All of these animals have unique ways of building their homes and the architecture is different for each animal. The beaver uses trees from around the wetlands area, while the bird may gather materials from the farm. While exploring different areas of the Park, we will examine rotting logs, burrows, cavities, and different types Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

Westgate Recreation Center, 501 Recreation Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 Camp Choctaw will provide a happy and healthy summer of fun for boys and girls ages 6 - 12. We will offer a mixture of sports, games, field trips, arts & crafts, special events, theme days, camp contests, free two-week swimming lessons, and more. All campers will enjoy customized schedules that are both age and gender specific. A wide variety of activities keeps every day fresh and exciting; each week will feature a unique set of events, adventures, and contest. Put it all together and get a camp experience that is loaded with

friendship, fun, and lasting memories! Volunteer opportunities are available for junior counselors ages 13 – 15. Free breakfast, lunch and snacks are included in the registration fee. Camp will conform to the CDC and State safety guidelines. Dates: Session 1: June 14 – June 25, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Session 2: June 28 – July 9, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Session 3: July 12 – July 23, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Session 4: July 26 – August 6, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6-12 years Cost :$100 per 2-Week Session / $50 per 2-Week Session with free/reduced lunch waiver (334) 615-3760 swingfield@dothan.org www.dothanlesiureservices.org

Camp Olympia ad on Back Cover

Wiregrass Park Recreation Center, 620 6th Ave., Dothan, AL 36301 Camp Olympia will provide a happy and healthy summer of fun for boys and girls ages 10-12. We will offer a mixture of sports, games, field trips, arts & crafts, special events, theme days, camp contests, free two-week swimming lessons, and more. All campers will enjoy customized schedules that are both age and gender specific. A wide variety of activities keeps every day fresh and exciting; each week will feature a unique set of events, adventures, and contests. Put it all together and get a camp experience that is loaded with friendship, fun, and lasting memories! Volunteer opportunities are available for junior counselors ages 13 – 15. Free breakfast, lunch and snacks are included in the registration fee. Camp will conform to the CDC and State safety guidelines. Dates: June 14-August 6, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 10-14 years Cost: $60 per Child / $30 per Child with free/reduced lunch waiver (334) 615_4740 swingfield@dothan.org www.dothanlesiureservices.org

Creepy Crawly Critters ad on page 31

Landmar Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Does it have slime? Does it move in a weird way? Is it wiggly with little hairs? Then campers get ready to check out this new exciting camp observing the weird and unusual! Come learn about all

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crafts and other activities. Ecology camp is a really fun way to learn about living things and their environment. Please note that this camp has an overnight camp out. Dates: June 21-25 & July 19-23 Ages: 6-8 years Cost: Members $100; Non-Members $115 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Farm & Forest Fun

Discovery Days

ad on page 31

Landmar Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Join us for a week of nature exploration! Learn about birds, plants and even the air we breathe. Highlights will include exploring Landmark Park with your five senses and creating art. We will sing songs, make crafts, tell stories and learn about the world around us. Dates: June 28-July 2 Ages: 4-5 years Cost: Members $75; Non-Members $90 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Earth Art ad on page 31

Landmar Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Let your creative side run wild during Earth Art camp! The colors found at Landmark park are beautiful during the summer, from the green grass and the blue sky to the orange, pink and purple flowers found in our native wildflower garden. This fun-filled week will be spent enjoying Mother Nature and all her beauty. There is no better way to learn about the wonders of plants, insects and other animals than through your own imagination and creativity. Using natural elements found on our nature trails and farmstead, campers will each day design their own unique work of art. Dates: July 26-30 Ages: 6-8 years Cost: Members $90, Non-Members $105 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Landmar Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Both the farm and forest are filled with many different plants and animals. Some animals that live at Landmark Park come out at night to hunt for food, make repairs to their homes and frolic in the woods. Others are awake in the daytime, grazing in the warmth and sunshine and sleep when the stars come out. Spend the week learning the difference between the nocturnal and diurnal animals that call the park home. We will spend time on the farm with the animals active in the daytime and time in the forest looking for scat, footprints and other signs left behind by those animals only awake when the sun goes down. Dates: July 5-9 Ages: 4-5 years Cost: Members $75; Non-Members $90

ad on page 31

Landmar Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Nature and living things will be the themes of this week of camp. During the week we will focus on plants and animals through nature games, walks,

Landmar Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 The vegetable garden holds many secrets, including living and nonliving elements needed for the garden to thrive. Nonliving things such as sunlight, soil and water are essential in the garden for plants to grow. We also need living organisms such as earthworms in the soil and insects to pollinate the plants. Join us on this adventure into the Vegetable Garden with our master gardeners and discover the wonders it holds! Dates: June 14-18 Ages: 4-5 years Cost: Members $75; Non-Members $90

United Gymstars and Cheer

Landmar Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Take a walk through local folklore and discover the stories of faeries lurking in the woods in our newest camp! Campers will get to explore the heavens to find the stories amongst the stars, venture into the unknown, and even learn myths from around the world! Come join the adventure and make sure to bring your imagination! Please note that this camp has an overnight camp out. Dates: July 5-9 Ages: 9-12 years Cost: Members $100; Non-Members $115

210 Graceland Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 June 8-July 31, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 5-12 years Registration opens May 1st. Limited spots available. Registration required. Please bring a sack lunch.

ad on page 7

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Pioneer Farm ad on page 31

Landmar Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Travel back in time and discover what your life

(334) 284-2244 www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

Youth Adventure Camp ad on Back Cover

Eastgate Park, 1949 Sanitary Dairy Rd., Ashford, AL 36312 Youth will enjoy archery, geocaching, pickleball, disc golf, canoeing, kayaking, fishing and lots of outdoor fun and fitness. Registration opens May 1st at any recreation center. Dates: June 14-18 and July 19-23, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Ages: 8-14 years Cost: $75 (includes t-shirt) (334) 615-3730 rkitts@dothan.org www.dothanlesiureservices.org

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ad on page 31

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Ecology Camp

might have been like if you lived 100 years ago. Spend a fun week getting to know the farm animals, participating in various household chores and playing pioneer games. Please note that this camp has an overnight camp out. Dates: June 21-25 & July 19-23 Ages: 6-8 years Cost: Members $100; Non-Members $115

Prices vary based on how you buy. Based on coverage selected. Savings vary. Subject to terms, conditions and availability. Allstate Vehicle and Property Insurance Co., Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Co. © 2018 Allstate Insurance Co.

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things creepy and see how every creature has its own purpose on Earth. Campers will get to enjoy hands-on experiences so the scary isn’t so scary! The only thing to fear is fear itself... and maybe spiders. Dates: July 12-16 Ages: 4-5 years Cost: Members $75; Non-Members $90

Adventure Camp

City of Enterprise Parks & Recreation Properties and Facilites, 421 E. Lee St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Arts and crafts, supervised play, group discussions, guest speakers, cooking classes, field trips and more. Registration begins May 3rd. SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Dates: June & July Ages: 6-11 years (334) 348-2684 eprd@enterpriseal.gov www.enterpriseal.gov/281/Adventure-Camp

Axtion Air Jump & Sports Summer Camp

3525 Ross Clark Cir., Ste 315, Dothan, AL 36303 Climbing Walls, Trampolines, Batting Cages, Ropes Course, Ninja Course, Laser Tag, Virtual Reality, Dodgeball, Basketball & More. Includes snacks, drinks, and lunch. Dates: Weeks of June 21st & July 19th Ages: 6-15 Years Cost: $130 per week or $30 per day (334) 446-5175 axtionairdothan@gmail.com www.axtionair.com

Bent Oak Horsemanship Summer Riding Camp

1210 Lucy Grade Rd., Dothan, AL 36301 Camps are for all levels! If you have never ridden, sign up! Or if you are an experienced showman and looking to learn more, sign up! Camps are 3-days long. Final camp is overnight. Dates: June 1-3, 15-17 / July 20-22, 26-31 Ages: Ages 6 & Up

(334) 791-5215 bentoakhorsemanship828@yahoo.com

Boys & Girls Club of OzarkSoutheast Alabama

Main Club, 195 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Ozark, AL 36360 Members will be involved in many programs and activities including STEM, swimming, dance, sports, computers, arts & crafts, daily games room tournaments, and the option to participate in weekly field trips. Includes breakfast and lunch. Dates: June 7-July 30 Ages: 6-13 years Cost: $315 per Child (334) 445-0512 jessica@bgcseal.com www.bgcseal.com

Boys & Girls Club of OzarkSoutheast Alabama

Glenway Unit, 180 Floyd Ave., Ozark, AL 36360 Members will be involved in many programs and activities including STEM, swimming, dance,

Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

sports, computers, arts & crafts, daily games room tournaments, and the option to participate in weekly field trips. Includes breakfast and lunch. Dates: June 7-July 30 Ages: 6-13 years Cost: $175 per Child (334) 445-0512 jessica@bgcseal.com www.bgcseal.com

Boys & Girls Club of the Wiregrass

Dothan Location, 457 S. Alice St., Dothan, AL 36301 Join us for 9 weeks of summer fun! Include breakfast, lunch, and snack. Limited slots available. Dates: Session 1: June 9-July 2 Session 2: July 6-August 6 Ages: 1st-8th Grade Cost: Full Summer: $560 per Child / Single Session: $280 per Child / Multi-Child Discount (334) 792-8787 bgcwcbrowning@gmail.com www.bgcwiregrass.org/summer-program

Boys & Girls Club of the Wiregrass

Enterprise Location, 301 N. Oiuda St. (Old Coppinville Jr. High), Enterprise, AL 36330 Join us for 8 weeks of summer fun! Include breakfast, lunch, and snack. Limited slots available. Dates: Session 1: June 7- July 2 Session 2: July 5-30 Ages: 1st-8th Grade Cost: $25 Club Fee + $425 per Child / Multi-Child Discount (334) 347-9520 bgcwenterprise@gmail.com www.bgcwiregrass.org/summer-program

Boys & Girls Club of the Wiregrass

Geneva Location, 411 N. Iris St., Geneva, AL 36340 Join us for 8 weeks of summer fun! Include breakfast, lunch, and snack. Limited slots available. Dates: Session 1 : June 7- July 2 Session 2: July 5-30 Ages: 1st-8th Grade Cost: $25 Club Fee + $375 per Child / Multi-Child Discount (334) 248-6120 bgcwgeneva@gmail.com www.bgcwiregrass.org/summer-program

Fun Zone Skate Center

465 Westgate Pkwy., Dothan, AL 36303 Christian-based program where children are grouped by age with counselors for structured fun every day, including: swimming, bowling and movies weekly, daily outdoor activities, educational field trips, arts and crafts, and daily devotionals with area youth ministers. Breakfast, lunch and snack provided.

Ages: 5-12 years Cost: Weekly Tuition $99 /

Daily Tuition $30

(334) 678-7529 pam@funzonedothan.com www.funzoneskatecenterdothan.com

Girls Inc. Summer Program

785 S. Foster St., Dothan, AL 36301 Educational activities, arts and crafts, and lots of fun. Slots are limited. Dates: June 14-August 13 Ages: K-8th Grade Cost: $45 per Week (334) 793-2321 girlsincdothan@gmail.com girlsincdothan.org

Hawk-Houston YEC Summer Enrichment Program

Hawk-Houston Youth Enrichment Center, 329 Chickasaw St., Dothan, AL 36302 Activities include performing & visual arts, academic enrichment, college and career access, sports and fitness, gardening, life skills, swimming, arts and crafts, and field trips. Ages: 6-14 years (334) 792-4618 hawkhoustonyec@gmail.com www.hawkhoustonyec.org

YMCA Kinder Camp

Enterprise YMCA, 904 Ozark Hwy., Enterprise, AL 36330 Dates: June 1-August 4 Ages: 2.5-5 years Cost: Weekly: 1 Child - $95 Members, $100 Non-members / 2 Children - $143 Members, $150 Non-members / 3 Children - $190 Members, $200 Non-members (334) 347-4513 enymca@centurylink.net www.enymca.org

YMCA Summer Camp

Enterprise YMCA, 904 Ozark Hwy., Enterprise, AL 36330 Dates: June 1-August 4 Ages: 5-12 years Cost: Weekly: 1 Child - $95 Members, $100 Nonmembers / 2 Children - $143 Members, $150 Non-members / 3 Children - $190 Members, $200 Non-members (334) 347-4513 enymca@centurylink.net www.enymca.org

Youth Bowling League

Dothan Lanes, 5727 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 Meets Saturday mornings at 10:00 a.m. Includes games and shoes.

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Educational Coding Camp ad on Back Cover

Andrew Bell Center, 1270 Lake St., Dothan, AL 36303 To compete in the current global economy, students need to have a comprehensive skill set that includes technology. In the recent past, coding has increasingly become one of the biggest trends to hit the education sector. Nowadays kids are growing up in a totally different world. Computers, cell phones, Netflix and Facebook are all embedded in their lives. In fact, even toys are currently digital and many of them have programs. Students of today must, therefore, consume technology and understand what controls it. When participants learn how to write codes, they not only develop cognitive skills but also learn the problem-solving process that is like a computer. This process involves using pattern recognition to present problems in different ways while logically breaking them down into parts and creating the steps needed to solve them. Coding teaches the participant to break down hard problems into different parts. It is one thing to know how to use technology, however, understanding the science behind the technology offers control. Dates: July 12-23 Ages: 6-9 (9 a.m.-Noon) and 10-14 (1-4 p.m.) Cost: $45 (lunch included) (334) 615.3711 swingfield@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

Dress for Success ad on Back Cover

Andrew Bell Center, 1270 Lake St., Dothan, AL 36303 Dress for Success educates and trains participants on the importance of professional and social etiquette and how it plays a role in their success. The participants become more confident and encouraged by learning about various topics from “making a great first impression” to resolving conflict. Each topic is accompanied by hands on instruction, role plays, group discussions, assignments, and activities such as how to answer the phone properly, creating a time management plan, how to create a budget, planning and setting goals, and determining a suitable career. Participants will learn that knowing the proper behaviors in all social settings will help them become productive citizens in their communities. Dates: July 26-August 6 Ages: 15-19, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Cost: $40 (334) 615.3711 swingfield@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

STEM Camp

10-14 (1-4 p.m.) Cost: $45 (lunch included) (334) 615.3711 swingfield@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

2021 GEMS

US Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory (USAARL), 6901 Farrel Road, Ft. Rucker, AL 36362 GEMS program students learn numerous math and science concepts; practice the scientific method, problem solving, and speaking in a public forum; gain exposure to a laboratory setting; and interact with military and civilian technicians, clinicians, scientists, and engineers. Application Deadline March 14; Waitlist Application Deadline April 30 Dates: June 21-25, June 28-July 2, July 12-16, 19-23 Ages: 4th-11th Grades Cost: Free

(334) 255-6907 usarmy.rucker.medcom-usaarl.mbx. stem@mail.mil www.usaarl.army.mil/pages/about/stem/

Summer Teen Volunteer Program

Flowers Hospital, 4370 W. Main St., Dothan, AL 36305 Learn firsthand about the healthcare industry and the services provided to patients. Ages: 14-17 years

(334) 793-5000 ext. 1982 volunteers@flowershospital.com www.flowershospital.com/student-volunteers

ad on Back Cover

Andrew Bell Center, 1270 Lake St., Dothan, AL 36303 STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Math. (STEAM is the addition of Arts.) STEM education in the U.S. is increasing in popularity and more schools are implementing STEM learning into their curriculum, making it an integral part of what they teach. Objectives for the camp include encouraging experimentation, encouraging teamwork, encouraging knowledge application, encouraging tech. use, encouraging adaption, and teaching problem solving. Dates: June 14-25 Ages: 6-9 (8 a.m.-Noon) and

Fine Arts Dothan Leisure Services Art Camp ad on Back Cover

Andrew Bell Center, 1270 Lake St., Dothan, AL 36303 Art stimulates young kids’ imaginations. Whether it is music, drama, dance or painting, summer arts

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camp activities can stimulate young minds with new concepts and skills, as well as lessons about art and art history. Participants in the art camp will work collaboratively to create projects, which teaches negotiation skills. By encouraging communication with new friends and expression of emotions through art creation, participants in art camp can gain a big boost, which can in turn be beneficial in how they communicate at home, school and with other adults. Dates: June 28 thru July 9 Ages: 6-9 (8 a.m.-Noon) and 10-14 (1-4 p.m.) Cost: $45 (includes lunch) (334) 615.3711 swingfield@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

SEACT Summer Theater Camps ad on page 25

Dothan, Enterprise, Headland, Abbeville, SW Georgia, Eufaula Join SEACT for a week of theatre learning about how a show comes together and your child’s important role. Ages :Vary by Location (334) 794-0400 seact@seact.com www.seact.com

All About Art

102 S. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Sign up for creative fun at our Summer Art Camps where themed weeks include art projects in canvas, clay, wood, mixed media, pottery, painting, and more! Limited camp sizes. Registration Deadline June 1st. Dates: Elementary Camps: June 14-18, 21-25, July 12-16 , 26-30 / Pre-K Camp July 19-23 Ages: Pre-K: 4 years-Kindergarten / Elementary 1st-6th Grade Cost: $150 Single Week / MultiWeek Discounts Available (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com

AR Workshop

2958 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan, AL 36301 Kids will create 4 DIY youth projects and a DIY ARt Session t-shirt over the course of the session! Participants will be able to customize and choose their project designs and paint colors from our decor line of paints! Optional half-day camp available. Dates: June 1-4, 7-10, 14-17, 21-24, June 28-July 1 Ages: 7-14 years Cost: $195 per person (334) 731-3003 dothan@arworkshop.com www.arworkshop.com/dothan

Cultural Arts Center

909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 Information on camps will be posted on the CAC website. Dates: Dates TBD Ages: Varies by Camp Cost: Varies by Camp (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Green House Art Studio

300 Virginia Dr., Dothan, AL 36301 Choose morning (10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.) or afternoons (2:00-4:00 p.m.). All supplies and snacks included. Sibling discount and private sessions available. Dates: June 7-10 Under the Sea June 14-17 Art of the Beatles June 21-24 On the Ranch June 28-July 1 Red White & Blue Art July 5-8 Art of the Maori July 12-15 Art of Japan July 19-22 Animals July 26-29 Patterns, Silhouettes & Finishes Ages: 6 years-Adult Cost :$100 per child (334) 701-5449 ghartstudio300@gmail.com

Wiregrass Museum of Art

126 Museum Ave., Dothan, AL 30303 We are delighted to announce that summer will be a lot messier this year! WMA is offering four unique art camps sure to engage the young artists in your life! Dates: June 21-25 Mixed Media Mayhem! June 28-July 2 Read a little! ART a lot! July 12-16 Art Explorations for Beginners July 19-23 Collage College June 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Toddler Tuesdays Ages: Varies by Camp Cost: Varies by Camp (334) 794-3871 info@wiregrassmuseum.org www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Martial Arts Dothan Martial Arts Academy Summer Day Camp

102 Central Park Ave., Suite 3, Dothan, AL 36303 Nine weeks of fun-packed activities! Awesome daily field trips. Fun and safe environment. Come for a week or the whole summer! Dates: June 1-August 6 Cost: Varies

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Enterprise Martial Arts Academy Summer Day Camp

1109 Boll Weevil Circle, Enterprise, AL 36330 Nine weeks of fun-packed activities! Awesome daily field trips. Fun and safe environment. Come for a week or the whole summer! Dates: June 1-August 6 Cost: Varies

(334) 678-0903 dothantkd@hotmail.com www.dothanmartialarts.com

Let’s teach our kids how to be a healthy family! Your whole family can - TOGETHER - work out & learn wellness tips. Do a one-mile run/walk, bike ride or work out at fitness stations. Tips on financial health, fire safety & more! See full list on Website. Free healthy food from Pepi & smoothie samples from Vibe Nutrition!

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(334) 678-0903 dothantkd@hotmail.com www.dothanmartialarts.com

FREE FAMILY FUN! Wiregrass Hope Group’s Family FitFest Sat., April 17 9-Noon Westgate Park

Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

www.wiregrassparents.com

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MojuKai Karate

607 E. Lee St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Cost: $85 per week

(334) 475-3899 mojukaikarate@gmail.com www.mojukaikarate.com

USKA Summer Karate Camp

United Scorpion Karate Association, 1145 James Dr., Enterprise, AL 36330 Includes Karate, Trips, Basketball, Swimming, Bowling, Arts & Crafts, Movies & much more! Cost: Members $65 per Week, Non Members $75 per Week (334) 475-4308 uskainfo@scorpionkarate1.com www.scorpionkarate1.com

Wolfpack Mixed Martial Arts

2952 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36301 Filled with fun learning activities for kids of all ages! We teach our kids how to build confidence, focus, team building and so much more. Your kids will have so much fun being a better person, they won’t even realize it’s a structured lesson for life! Ages: 5-13 years (334) 677-2002 mmadothan@gmail.com kids.mmadothan.com/summercamp

Regional Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 21

757 Co. Rd. 614, Mentone, AL 35984 Exciting activities! Unique special events! Camp Traditions! Daily Schedule! Dates: June & July Ages: 6-16 years Cost: Short-Term Sessions $2175 / Long-Term Sessions $3990 (256) 634-4043 www.riverviewcamp.net

Alpine Camp for Boys

209 Co. Rd. 264, Mentone, AL 35984 During a summer at Alpine, a camper will make new friends, discover new interests, saddle a horse, climb a rock, build a campfire, and above all learn to “act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God.” Dates: May, June & July Ages: 1st-9th Grade Boys Cost: Varies by Camp (256) 634-4404 summer@alpinecamp.com alpinecamp.com

Blue Lake Camp

8500 Oakwood Lane, Andalusia, AL 36420 Blue Lake Methodist Camp offers an amazing range of camp activities for all our campers. From exploratory free time to planned programming, our staff is always there to ensure a fun and safe experience for all. Dates:June & July Ages:3rd-12th Grade Cost:Varies by Camp (334) 222-5407 information@bluelakecamp.com www.bluelakecamp.com

Camp Alamisco

1771 Camp Alamisco Rd., Dadeville, AL 36853 We operate year round and are open to church and school groups, as well as corporate functions. Excellent programming, spiritual relationships, and life affirming activities are our goal. Dates: June & July Ages: All ages Cost: Varies by Camp (334) 272-7493 alamiscocamp@gmail.com campalamisco.org

Camp DeSoto

264 Highway Above the Clouds, Mentone, AL 35984 Through outdoor activities, new friends, loving counselors, worship, and play, Camp DeSoto provides girls with opportunities to learn new skills, enjoy the beauty of the outdoors, build lasting

friendships, and develop a deeper understanding of God’s love. Dates: June & July Ages: Girls 8-16 years Cost: Varies by Camp (256) 634-4394 campdesoto@campdesoto.com www.campdesoto.com

Camp Laney

916 W. River Rd., Mentone, AL 35984 At Camp Laney we emphasize sportsmanship, teamwork, honesty, perseverance, truthfulness, loyalty, thoughtfulness, and kindness. Dates: June & July Ages: Boys 7-15 Cost: One Week Sessions $2150; Two Week Sessions $3875 (356) 634-4066 info@camplaney.com rob@camplaney.com camplaney.com

Camp Mac

2671 Cheaha Rd., Munford, AL 36268 We offer two terms: the Junior Term, designed for younger or first-time campers, lasts 10 days; the Senior Terms, for more experienced campers, last either 3 or 4 weeks. Throughout every day, our campers participate in programs ranging from Arts and Crafts to Zip Lines! Dates: June-August Ages: 1st-8th Grade Cost: Varies by Camp (256) 362-7449 office@campmac.com campmac.com

Camp Skyline Ranch

4888 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, AL 35984 Camp Skyline is a residential, summer camp in northern Alabama for girls. We offer four 2-week sessions each summer as well as three 1-week mini-sessions for girls ages 6–8. We are a Christian camp and seek to do everything for the glory of God and the encouragement of our campers. Dates: June & July Ages: Girls 6-16 years Cost: 2-Week Camps $4,632 / Mini Camp $2,378 1 (800) 448-9279 info@campskyline.com / larry@campskyline.com www.campskyline.com

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Montgomery Zoo Summer Camps

2301 Coliseum Pkwy, Montgomery, AL 36110 Live animal presentations; Educational animals; scavenger hunts; craft time; classroom time; playtime, train, and sky lift rides; animal encounters with the giraffes, river otters, parakeets and our collection of petting zoo animals; behind-thescene tours and visits with our zookeepers, and other staff members. Dates: June & July Ages: 5-12 Years Cost: Members $179 per week, Non-Members $199 per week

(334) 625-4900 zooinfo@montgomeryal.gov www.montgomeryzoo.com/education/summer-camp

Religious Camp Victory ad on page 25

863 Victory Circle, Samson, AL 36477 A year-round Christian Camp that now offers online registration. Activities include zip line, giant swing, climbing wall, boating, swimming, sports, crafts, archery, fishing, missionary presentations and Bible classes. Dates: June & July Ages: 3rd-12th grades Cost: $275 (334) 898-7948 registration@campvictoryal.org www.campvictoryal.org/summercamp

Camp Wiregrass

264 Wiregrass Rd., Chancellor, AL 36316 A Christian summer youth camp, giving young people a safe, happy place to spend time with friends and learn to live by Bible principles and receive Jesus Christ as their Saviour. Dates: June & July Ages: 1st-12th grades Cost:

Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

$130 per Week / Family Discounts Available

(334) 347-0111 info@campwiregrass.info / campwiregrass2006@yahoo.com www.campwiregrass.info/

Connect Camp

Hillcrest Baptist Church, 500 Alberta St., Enterprise, Al 3630 Dates: July 26-30 Ages: K-6th Grade (334) 347-2516 www.hbce.org

Hillcrest Baptist Church VBS

500 Alberta St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Destination DIG! Vacation Bible School for 4 year olds entering Kindergarten this year through those that completed 6th grade during the 2020-2021 school year. Dates: June 7-11 (334) 347-2516

level’s theme-related badge, which they will take home at the end of the week. Dates: June 13-18 or June 2025 Ages: 4th-5th Grade Cost: $498 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Mini-Brownie (Girl Scouts)

Scoutshire Woods, 6051 Scoutshire Camp Rd. North, Citronelle, AL 36522 Try camp for two nights, three days! This session will zoom by and you’ll get to try a variety of fun camp activities and develop your camping skills. Campers will earn a theme-related patch, which they will take home at the end of the session. Dates: June 13-15 or June 20-22 Ages: 2nd-3rd Grade Cost: $280 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Mini-Brownie (Girl Scouts)

Scouting Boy Scouts of America

Camp AlaFlo, 1687 Co. Rd. 156, New Brockton, AL 36351 Scouts will enjoy fellowship, swimming, canoeing, learning about ecology and conservation, applying their skills at the Archery, Shotgun, and Rifle Ranges, or one of our off camp adventures. Dates: June 27-July 3 (334) 793-7882 joe.maxwell@scouting.org www.bsa3.org/campalaflo

Equestrienne (Girl Scouts)

Kamp Kiwanis, 2365 Kamp Kiwanis Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 Try camp for two nights, three days! This session will zoom by and you’ll get to try a variety of fun camp activities and develop your camping skills. Campers will earn a theme-related patch, which they will take home at the end of the session. Dates: June 27-29 or July 5-7 Ages: 2nd-3rd Grade Cost: $280 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Mini-Cadette (Girl Scouts)

Scoutshire Woods, 6051 Scoutshire Camp Rd. North, Citronelle, AL 36522 Love to come to camp, but prefer a shorter experience? This session is for you! This three-day and two-night session will allow you to try a variety of adventurous camp activities like axe-throwing, zip lining, kayaking or the inflatable climbing wall. Dates: June 13-15 or June 20-22 Ages: 6th-12th Grade Cost: $295 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

www.wiregrassparents.com

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Mini-Cadette (Girl Scouts)

Kamp Kiwanis, 2365 Kamp Kiwanis Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 This three-day and two-night session will allow you to try a variety of adventurous camp activities like axe-throwing, zip lining, kayaking or the inflatable climbing wall. Dates: June 27-29 or July 5-7 Ages: 6th-12th Grade Cost: $295

(800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Mini-Junior (Girl Scouts)

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Scoutshire Woods, 6051 Scoutshire Camp Rd. North, Citronelle, AL 36522 This three-day and two-night session will allow you to try a variety of the fun camp activities and help develop your camping skills. Dates: June 13-15 or June 20-22 Ages: 4th-5th Grade Cost: $280 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Mini-Junior (Girl Scouts)

Kamp Kiwanis, 2365 Kamp Kiwanis Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 This three-day and two-night session will allow you to try a variety of the fun camp activities and help develop your camping skills. Dates: June 27-29 or July 5-7 Ages: 4th-5th Grade Cost: $280 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Outdoor Journey (Girl Scouts

Scoutshire Woods, 6051 Scoutshire Camp Rd. North, Citronelle, AL 36522 Enjoy all of the classic and memorable camp activities (swimming, boating, archery, zip line, crafts) and sign up for special “free-choice” adventure activities twice a day. Campers will earn a theme-related badge, which they will take home at the end of the week. Dates: June 13-18 or June 2025 Ages: Brownies

2nd-3rd Grade / Juniors 4th-5th Grade / Cadettes 6th-12th Grade Cost :$480

sports, games, campfire cookies, and zip lining. Dates: July 5-12 Ages: 6th-12th Grade Cost: $695

(800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Outdoor Journey (Girl Scouts

Sail Away Novice Camp

(800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Pony Tails (Girl Scouts)

Trail Masters (Girl Scouts)

Kamp Kiwanis, 2365 Kamp Kiwanis Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 Enjoy all of the classic and memorable camp activities (swimming, boating, archery, zip line, crafts) and sign up for special “free-choice” adventure activities twice a day. Campers will earn a theme-related badge, which they will take home at the end of the week. Dates: June 27-July 2 or July 5-10 Ages: 2nd-3rd Grade Cost: $480

Scoutshire Woods, 6051 Scoutshire Camp Rd. North, Citronelle, AL 36522 Campers will enjoy a wide variety of equestrianthemed camp activities. They will spend at least two hours each day working with and learning to ride the horses and will earn the appropriate agelevel’s theme-related badge, which they will take home at the end of the week. Dates: June 13-18 or June 2025 Ages: 2nd-3rd Grade Cost: $498

Kamp Kiwanis, 2365 Kamp Kiwanis Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 Girls will practice their knots, perfect their tack and jibe, and successfully turtle their boat so that when the wind is perfect on the water, the girls will be ready to sail with confidence! Additional activities include nautical themed arts and crafts, sunrise paddles, water sports, games, campfire cookies, and zip lining. Dates: June 27-July 2 Ages: 6th-12th Grade Cost: $615

Scoutshire Woods, 6051 Scoutshire Camp Rd. North, Citronelle, AL 36522 Campers will enjoy the wide variety of equestrianthemed camp activitiesand spend at least two hours each day working with and learning to ride the horses at camp. Trail Masters will also have the opportunity to go on a trail ride. Dates: June 13-18 or June 2025 Ages: 6th-12th Grade Cost: $495 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

(800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Sail Away Advanced Camp

Kamp Kiwanis, 2365 Kamp Kiwanis Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 8-day, 7-night camp for girls who have previously attended Sail Away Camp or 3 Sail Away Weekends. Girls will spend every day in a sail boat as they demonstrate mastery of their sailing skills. They will practice their knots, tack, jibe, and take a giant leap forward with the skills they learned previously. Additional activities include nautical themed arts and crafts, sunrise paddles, water

Special Needs Beacon of Hope ABA Summer Program ad on page 3

181 W. Reynolds St., Ozark, AL 36360 A realistic summer camp experience for individuals with Autism. We implement the client’s

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Camp Rap-A-Hope

2701 Airport Blvd., Mobile, AL 36606 Children ages 7-17 who have been diagnosed with cancer at ANY point in their life are invited to attend a FREE summer camp. There will be games, horseback riding, fishing, arts and crafts, and so much more! Dates: Session 1: June 6-9; Session 2: June 9-12th Ages: Session 1: Ages 7-13; Session 2: Ages 14-17 Cost: Free (251) 476-9880 info@rapahope.org www.camprapahope.org

Camp Seale Harris

Westgate Park, 501 Recreation Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 For Children with Diabetes. Program includes swimming, sports, games, and crafts. One sibling/ friend may also register and pay to attend. Dates: June 21-25 Ages: 5-15 years Cost: $175 (205) 402-0415 info@campsealeharris.org campsealeharris.org/

Camp SMILE behavior plans in a summer camp setting with a focus on communication, community skills, and social skills. Complete with theme weeks we work on peer relationships, attending skills, and new experiences. ABA is applied in close proximity to same age/ similar developmental level peers while having the learning experience that comes from one-on-one therapy. (334) 477-4686 beaconofhopeaba@gmail.com www.ababeaconofhope.com

Camp Smile ad on Back Cover

Doug Tew Recreation Center, 300 Garland St., Dothan, AL 36301 A summer camp for intellectually challenged children ages 6 – 18. Campers will enjoy games, crafts, music, and other fun activities. Campers should be independent will all self-help skills. Transportation will be provided by Leisure Services inside the Dothan City Limits. Transportation is limited due to Covid-19 restrictions (first come, first serve). Dates: June 21 – 25, 9:30 a.m. – 1 p.m. Ages: 6-18 years Cost: Free (334) 615.3720 alowe@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.com

DLS Therapeutic Recreation Program Sports Camp ad on Back Cover

years and older and independent with all self-help skills. Campers will enjoy games, socializing, cooking, life skills, music, and field trips, and other fun activities. Transportation will be provided by Leisure Services inside the Dothan City Limits. Transportation is limited due to Covid-19 restrictions (first come, first serve). Dates: Session I: June 28 – July 9, Camp will not meet on July 2nd and July 5th. Session II: July 12 – July 22, Camp will not meet on July 16th and July 23rd. Ages: Age 13 & Up Cost: $40 (334) 615.3720 alowe@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.com

DLS Therapeutic Recreation Program Swimming Lessons ad on Back Cover

Andrew Bell Pool, 1270 Lake St., Dothan, AL 36303 Provided for intellectually challenged children and adults ages 6 and up who are non-swimmers. Lessons will focus on water safety, swim technique and improved physical fitness. Participants must be accompanied in the water by a parent, guardian, or caregiver. Caregivers must provide transportation. Dates: June 21-25, 10 – 10:45 a.m. Ages: Ages 6 & Up Cost: $10 (334) 615.3720 alowe@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.com

Doug Tew Recreation Center, 300 Garland St., Dothan, AL 36301 Sports Camp is for intellectually challenged citizens ages 13 and up who want to learn and improve their skills in a variety of sports. Basic fundamentals and conditioning will be taught for a variety of team sports and participants will be introduced to and participate in archery, disc golf, pickle ball and tennis. Participants will participate outside for some sports offered. Transportation will be provided by Leisure Services inside the Dothan City Limits. Transportation is limited due to Covid-19 restrictions (first come, first serve). Dates: July 26 – August 5, (No camp on July 30), 9 a.m. – Noon Ages: Age 13 & Up

2578 Camp ASCCA Dr., Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861 Weekend and week-long sessions year round. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a splash pad, and zip line. Dates: July-August and Weekend Seasonal Camps Ages: 6-Adult Cost: $1,150 / Camperships Available

DLS Therapeutic Recreation Program Summer Camp

Vineyard Christian Retreat, 245 Co. Rd. 131, Ariton, AL 36311 Four hours of academics including tutoring and cognitive development. Four hours of traditional camp fun including swimming, boating, archery, fishing, robotics, art, zip line, and climbing wall. Dates: June 7-July 2 Ages: 1st-8th Grade

(334) 615.3720 alowe@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.com

ad on Back Cover

Doug Tew Recreation Center, 300 Garland St., Dothan, AL 36301 A camp for intellectually challenged citizens 13 Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

Camp ASCCA

(256) 825-9226 info@campascca.org www.campascca.org

Camp D.I.G.

(334) 477-2097 dyslexiacommunityresources@gmail. com campdig.godaddysites.com

3058 Dauphin Square Conn., Mobile, AL 36607 Residential summer camp for individuals with disabilities and their siblings. Dates: June & July Ages: 5-50 years Cost: $385 per camper (251) 479-4900 campsmile@ucpmobile.org / malvarez@ucpmobile.org www.campsmilemobile.org

Smile-a-Mile Summer Camps

Children’s Harbor at Lake Martin, 1 Our Children’s Hwy., Alexander City, AL 35010 Smile-A-Mile has 7 camp sessions each summer at Children’s Harbor on Lake Martin. All sessions are staffed by Children’s of Alabama healthcare personnel who are able to care for the children’s unique medical needs. Cost: Varies by Camp www.smileamile.com/summer-camp-sessions

Sports Camps/Clinics Cardio Boot Camp ad on Back Cover

Andrew Bell Center, 1270 Lake St., Dothan, AL 36303 Cardio Boot Camp exercise sessions meet for 60 minutes. It combines cardio and strength training in one session. Participants are lead through a variety of circuit style exercises. Activities include strength and flexibility stations using their own body weight, an obstacle course, jump ropes, agility ladders, shuffle steps, sprints, interval training through crunches and shuttle runs. A great way to burn fat, calories, stay fit and make new friends. Dates: July 26-30 Ages: 6 -12 (4-5 p.m.) and 13-18 (5-6 p.m.) Cost: $25 (334) 615.3711 swingfield@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

Summer Archery Camp ad on Back Cover

Eastgate Park, 1949 Sanitary Dairy Rd., Ashford, AL 36312 Dothan Leisure Services is offering an Olympicstyle archery skills class which will be taught at the Eastgate Archery Range. Class content will cover archery history, safety, technique, equipment, mental concentration, and self-improvement. The remainder of the class will be spent putting these concepts into practice. All archery equipment will be provided. Registration opens May 1st at any recreation center. Dates: Session I: June 28 – July 2, 6-7:30 p.m.

www.wiregrassparents.com

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Session II: July 26-30, 6-7:30 p.m. Ages: 8-Adult Cost: $35 per person (334) 615-3730 rkitts@dothan.org www.dothanlesiureservices.org

David’s Performance Factory

131 S. Woodburn Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Athletes train 3-days a week with a focus on speed, agility, strength, and building confidence. Dates: TBD Ages :7-12 years (334) 718-4234 info@davidpf.com davidpf.com

Dothan Flag Football League

Details will be posted on the DFFL Facebook page and website. Dates: June Ages: 5-18 years (334) 714-4837 dothanflagfootball@gmail.com www.dothanflagfootball.com

Dothan Hoops

126 S. Woodburn Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Services include instruction in shooting, passing, ball handling, strategic understanding and court awareness at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. Dates: TBD Ages: 5-18 years (334) 791-8683 dothanhoops@gmail.com www.dothanhoops.com

Dothan International Soccer Camp

Northcutt Football Field, 395 Northcutt Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 The TinyTykes program provides 1 hour per day of soccer activities, games and stories; designed to develop key motor skills and fundamentals. Halfday camps provide 3 hours of skill development. Full-day camps are 6 hour programs that include more advanced training and challenges. Dates: Juy 26-30 Ages: 3-16 Years Cost: Tiny

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Tykes - $99, Half Day - $133, Full Day - $175 bmilburn@challengersports.com www.challengersports.com

Elite Basketball Camp

Troy University, 600 University Ave., Troy, AL 36082 Instruction from the Troy women’s basketball coaching staff & players, instruction on speed & agility training, and guidance on the NCAA Eligibility Center and the necessary steps to be prepared for the collegiate level. Dates: June 23 Ages: 8th-12th Grade Cost: $75 troywomensbasketballcamps.com

Fort Rucker International Soccer Camp

Ft. Rucker Soccer Fields, Bldg. 8293 Ruf Ave, Ft. Rucker, AL 36362 The TinyTykes program provides 1 hour per day of soccer activities, games and stories; designed to develop key motor skills and fundamentals. Halfday camps provide 3 hours of skill development. Full-day camps are 6 hour programs that include more advanced training and challenges. Dates: June 14-18 Ages: 3-16 Years Cost: Tiny Tykes Cubs - $81, Tiny Tykes Lions $89, Half Day - $126, Full Day - $165 (678) 540-1589 ariley@challengersports.com www.challengersports.com

Little Dribblers Basketball Camp

Troy University, 600 University Ave., Troy, AL 36082 Fun Times Learning Fundamentals. All Campers Receive a Camp T-Shirt. Games, Competitions & Relays Dates: June 7-10 Ages: PreK-8th Grade Cost: $90 per camper troywomensbasketballcamps.com

Ozark Community Tennis Advanced Aces Summer Program

Peacock Pkwy, Ozark, AL 36360 Consists of serving and stroke production with dead ball drilling, conditioning, and live ball competitions. Classes are scheduled depending on interest. We need four (4) to sign up to hold a class. Dates: TBD (334) 232-9651 ozarkcommunitytennis@gmail.com ozarkcommunitytennis.com

Team Basketball Camp

Troy University, 600 University Ave., Troy, AL 36082 3 Games/Day. Camp T-Shirts. Situational Tournaments & Prizes. Team Bonding Activities. Dates: June 24-25 Ages: High School Varsity, Junior Varsity, Middle School & AAU Teams Cost: Varies (334) 670-5718 troywomensbasketballcamps.com

Volleyball All Skills Camp

Troy University - Trojan Arena, 625 International Blvd., Troy, AL 36081 Dates: July 16-17 Ages: 7-12th Grade Cost: Resident Camper: $250 / Commuter Camper: $200 troyvolleyballcamp.com

Volleyball Team Camp

Troy University - Trojan Arena, 625 International Blvd., Troy, AL 36081 Dates: July 14-15 Ages: HS Varsity & JV Teams Cost: Resident Camper: $250 / Commuter Camper: $200 troyvolleyballcamp.com WP

Landmark Park presents

May 1, 2021 • 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Quiet Hour 10 a.m.-11 a.m. (no horns or loud noises) See big trucks up close! Sit in the driver’s seat, honk the horns, learn about safety and meet the people who support our community. 334-794-3452 • www.landmarkparkdothan.com

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FamilyCalendar Thursday April 1

Crafty Teen - Curly Haired Paint Party Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, Happy little trees and clouds, here we come! Not so good at painting? No problem! Register and receive a miniature paint by number and hilarious curly brown wig kit. This program is for teens (13-18) only and registration is required. www.dhcls.org Dale County Fair Culpepper Park, 290 Daleville Ave. Daleville, AL, 36322 With over 20 rides, exhibits, and food galore, there is always something new to see and do at the Fair! Spring Break: Navigating Our World (Gate Admission: $4 Adults, $3 Kids)

10:00 a.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Students will gain an understanding of how to use a map and a compass. Space limited. Registration required. www.landmarkparkdothan.com Pints & Paints: Easter Bunny ($35) 6:00 p.m. Folklore Brewing & Meadery, 153 Mary Lou Lane Dothan, AL, 36301 Grab tickets and join us painting at the brewery! All supplies included and no experience necessary! (334) 447-8796 eyecatchersart.com

Friday April 2

Spring Fling (Admission Only $5 / Ride Armbands $25 Week, $35 Weekend)

National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 S. Dothan, AL, 36303 Rides/Food/Games only by Reithoffer Shows. Egg Hunt 4/2, 4/3, 4/4: 2,000 Eggs with prize tickets will be hidden on the midway. Prizes to include: WRISTBAND, FOOD PRIZE or FREE GAME PLAY. (813) 422-0074 www.nationalpeanutfestival.com/p/ tickets--deals

Egg My Yard (30 eggs $25 | 50 eggs $45 | 100 eggs $90) 8:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., Dothan, AL All proceeds go to the Blayne Hardy Barfield Foundation. info@BHBFoundation.org docs.google.com/ forms/d/1GfurUm8Z0EYLSIS_66xJr3XmylgDlPXYYpP cmkmuXfg/edit Virtual Art of Yoga (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, Al, 36303 Join WMA’s own Robin Johnston for a virtual hour of yoga broadcast from WMA’s galleries. Grab your mat and join us on Facebook Live (@wmafan) on the first Friday of each month. All levels welcome. Donations appreciated. www.wiregrassmuseum.org Spring Break: Radical Reptiles (Gate Admission: $4 Adults, $3 Kids)

10:00 a.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Students will learn the importance of reptiles as well as their distinguishing characteristics. Space is limited. Registration required. www.landmarkparkdothan.com Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA, 39823 Pick up the scavenger hunt at the Visitor Center, then follow the clues to find the miss-

Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

ing eggs scattered throughout the park. Unscramble the phrase and receive a prize. Dale County Fair Culpepper Park, 290 Daleville Ave. Daleville, AL, 36322 With over 20 rides, exhibits, and food galore, there is always something new to see and do at the Fair! World Autism Day 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., Beacon of Hope ABA, 181 W. Reynolds St. Ozark, AL, 36360 We will be celebrating World Autism Day at the clinic throughout the day with clients. Please join us at 5pm at Beacon of hope for refreshments followed by a walk around the square to celebrate neurodiversity in our community.

Saturday April 3 Spring Fling Details April 2.

Dale County Fair Culpepper Park, 290 Daleville Ave. Daleville, AL, 36322 With over 20 rides, exhibits, and food galore, there is always something new to see and do at the Fair! Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA, 39823 Pick up the scavenger hunt at the Visitor Center, then follow the clues to find the missing eggs scattered throughout the park. Unscramble the phrase and receive a prize. Crawdad & Music Festival (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Downtown, Ozark, AL, 36360 Family Friendly Festival, Great Music, Variety of Wonderful Food, Beer, Art’s & Crafts Area, Children’s Area & More! Egg Drop Ozark (Free) 10:00 a.m. Carroll High School, 141 Eagle Way Ozark, AL, 36360 We’re dropping plastic candy-filled Easter eggs from a HELICOPTER. Ages 2-12 years old. PRE-REGISTER online and get your FREE ticket to get your child ready for the Egg Drop. www.churchwithu.com Easter Egg Hunt 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 Geneva, AL, 36340 Easter Egg Hunt at 5th grade.

(Free)

a.m., Robert Fowler Park, Come join us for a community the Junction. For children up to

Sunday April 4

Easter Sunrise Service (Free) 6:00 a.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Nondenominational Easter sunrise service hosted by the Dothan Ministerial Union will be held on the Gazebo lawn. Bring your lawn chairs. In case of rain the event will be held inside the Headland Presbyterian Church at Landmark Park. www.landmarkparkdothan.com Reptile Feeding ($4 Adults, $3 Kids)

4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Meet Indie our Eastern Indigo snake, along with our Corn snake and several turtles and learn why these animals are important to the environment. www.landmarkparkdothan.com Easter Egg Scavenger Hunt Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA, 39823 Pick up the scavenger hunt at the Visitor Center, then follow the clues to find the missing eggs scattered throughout the park. Unscramble the phrase and receive a prize. Spring Fling Details April 2. Dale County Fair Culpepper Park, 290 Daleville Ave. Daleville, AL, 36322 With over 20 rides, exhibits, and food galore, there is always something new to see and do at the Fair!

Monday April 5

Bug Fossils Sensory Play-dough Kits Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, Come by any of our locations and pick up a take home Bug Fossils Sensory Play-dough kit. Kits are for ages 18 months - 4 years. Supplies are limited. Pick-up is not available for large groups or day cares. One kit per child, please. www.dhcls.org

Mayor’s 90 Day Challenge: Walk-n-Talks: 5:45 p.m. Walton Park Walking Trail, 122 Walton Park Dr. Dothan, Al, 36303 Meet and interact with Commissioners and senior City staff to ask questions and learn more about current projects going on in the City. Participants include District 1 Commissioner Kevin Dorsey; Andrew Love, General Services Director; and Vincent Vincent, Dothan Community Relations Officer.

Egg Drop Enterprise (Free) 11:00 a.m. Bates Memorial Stadium, 400 E. Watts Ave. Enterprise, AL, 36330 We’re dropping plastic candy-filled Easter eggs from a HELICOPTER. Ages 2-12 years old. PRE-REGISTER online and get your FREE ticket to get your child ready for the Egg Drop. www.churchwithu.com

Tuesday April 6

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Spring Fling Details April 2.

First Saturday Family Day (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Stop by WMA to pick up a FSFD activity packet. The free packets will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis until they are gone. Each packet will contain detailed instructions and all supplies needed. April: April 3 – Watercolor Resist Project www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Community Easter Egg Hunt 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Heritage Church, 29211 Rucker Blvd. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Free hot dogs, drinks, an egg hunt, and a lot of fun all together! All kids are invited to come! (334) 347-1991 hello@heritageenterprise.church

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Spring Fling Details April 2.

A...My Name is Alice (Tickets: $20) 7:00 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 30301 A marvelous kaleidoscope of contemporary women. Sophisticated, bawdy, funny

www.wiregrassparents.com

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Wednesday April 7 Spring Fling Details April 2.

Dive into Diversity: Thingyan Festival (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate Branch, 503 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us on Facebook for the reading of “I see the Sun In Myanmar” by Dedie King, celebrating the Thingyan Festival, which is the celebration of the Burmese New Year. Small crafts to further explore the customs and traditions available for pickup while supplies last. www.dhcls.org A...My Name is Alice (Tickets: $20) Details April 6.

Thursday April 8 Spring Fling Details April 2.

Welcome to Ozark 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Ann Rudd Art Center, 144 E. Broad St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Are you new to the Ozark community? We want to meet you and welcome you to our community. A...My Name is Alice (Tickets: $20) Details April 6.

Friday April 9 Spring Fling Details April 2.

Saturday April 10 Spring Fling Details April 2.

24th Annual Car Show (Registration $25) 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Johnny Henderson Family Park, 300 Hwy 167 N. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Music, Door Prizes, Food Vendors 6th Annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes

(Individual $40 / Team $35 (4 person minimum)

benefit our Scholarships and Community Grants Fund. Register your 4-person golf team at Silver Wings Golf Course. Entry Deadline April 7. (334) 255-0089 sanford.c.tanna.naf@mail.mil Spring Forest Tour ($4 Adults, $3 Kids) 9:30 a.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Ed Lewis, a local forester and park volunteer, will host two Spring Forest Tours at Landmark Park and provide information about many of the species in the park. Registration is required. Classes are limited to 20 people per session. www.landmarkparkdothan.com Toddler Tales: Sophie Pop-Up Peekaboo! ($20 per child)

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., All About Art Studio, 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Class is designed to be a family experience, with story time and a related art project for toddlers and their care givers. Light toddler friendly refreshments will be provided. (34) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com Pickin’ in the Park ($4 Adults, $3 Kids) 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Bring their instruments and join in a jam session featuring bluegrass, gospel and country music. All skill levels and ages welcome. Show your instrument at the gate to receive free admission. For those who just want to come listen and watch, regular gate admission will apply. www.landmarkparkdothan.com Sit & Sew ($4 Adults, $3 Kids) 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Bring your textile based crafts to the Auditorium for an informal sewing circle. Free with paid gate admission. Space is limited to due to social distancing restrictions, first come first served. Open to the public. www.landmarkparkdothan.com 3-Point Basketball Shoot Out 12:00 p.m. East Gate Business Park, 406 Ben St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Fundraiser for the Ozark Dale County Library benefiting kids in grades 6-12. Concessions will be sold and prizes will be awarded! (334) 774-5480 chlibrary@troycable.net Popcorn & a Movie: The Secret Garden (Free) 12:45 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Join us to watch a fun, family-friendly new movie release while enjoying freshly popped popcorn & ice cold drinks! (334) 774-5480 ozarklibrary.com Spring Forest Tour ($4 Adults, $3 Kids) 1:00 p.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Ed Lewis, a local forester and park volunteer, will host two Spring Forest Tours at Landmark Park and provide information about many of the species in the park. Registration is required. Classes are limited to 20 people per session. www.landmarkparkdothan.com

8:30 a.m. Kiwanis Park, 1715 Whatley Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Show your support for victims of sexual assault and supporting The House of Ruth Inc Dothan. family friendly, prizes, trophies, costume, biggest hat, funky socks are just part of the awards. form.jotform.com/210200429675146

Pints & Paints: Pink Flamingo ($35) 4:00 p.m. Folklore Brewing & Meadery, 153 Mary Lou Lane Dothan, AL, 36301 Grab tickets and join us painting at the brewery! (334) 447-8796 eyecatchersart.com

Heart of Aviation Benefit Golf Scramble (Entry

A...My Name is Alice (Tickets: $20) Details April 6.

9:00 a.m. Silver Wings Golf Course, 20067 Combat Rd. Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Presented by the Fort Rucker Community Spouses’ Club. All proceeds

Spanish Trail Opry (Tickets $15) 7:00 p.m. Spanish Trail Playhouse, 680 2nd St. Chipley, FL, 32428 Performed in the style of The

Fee: $65 per player for Non-Members/ $50 per player for Members)

Grand Ole Opry, the show is full of traditional country music and features some of the areas best singers and musicians along with the talented Spanish Trail Playhouse Band. (850) 638-9113

Sunday April 11 Spring Fling Details April 2.

Monday April 12

Mineral Mosaics Kit (Free) Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, All Branches Beginning today, you can stop by any of our locations and pick up a mineral mosaic sticker kit. Supplies are limited and will be available while supplies last. Pickup is not available for large groups or daycares. One kit per child, please. www.dhcls.org Casting Crowns - A Night Under the Stars 7:00 p.m. National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 S. Dothan, AL, 36303 Casting Crowns’ “A Night Under The Stars” will be performed in the parking lot. Audio will not only be live, but will be transmitted to vehicles through FM radio. All shows will follow guidelines and protocols based on local restrictions at the time of the event. CastingCrowns.com

Tuesday April 13

Dothan Diamond Classic (Daily Admission: $6 | Tournament Pass: $20 | Children 5 & Under: FREE)

Westgate Softball Complex and James Oates Park, Dothan, AL Area high school softball teams will participate in the tournament. Proceeds are presented to the participating schools. (334) 701-2954 www.dothansoftball.com

Thursday April 15 Dothan Diamond Classic Details April 13.

Friday April 16

Dothan Diamond Classic Details April 13.

Saturday April 17

Wiregrass Hope Group Family FitFest 9:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m. Westgate Park 501 Recreation Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 Free. Let’s teach our kids how to be a healthy family! Your whole family can - TOGETHER - work out & learn wellness tips. Do a one-mile run/walk, bike ride or work out at fitness stations. Tips on financial health, fire safety & more! Free healthy food from Pepi & smoothie samples from Vibe Nutrition! wiregrasshope.com Dothan Diamond Classic Details April 13. Taylor Made Festival Disc Golf Championship 7:00 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Taylor Walking Trail & Playground, 1469 S. Hwy 605 Taylor, AL, 36301 A one day, non-sanctioned tournament on the new 12 hole Taylor Disc Golf Course. Every person that enters will have an opportunity to win money, no matter your skill level.

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FamilyCalendar Rabbit Football Camp (Free) 9:00 a.m. P.A.S.S. Academy, 201 E. Wilson St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Coach Rabbit will teach boys of all ages football drills, skills and fundamentals. We will be following CDC Guidelines; asking questions, taking temperatures and sanitize station. Volunteers needed for grilling, serving, hands on with Coach and sign-in table. Snack/drink and monetary donations also needed. Jimmie Reese (334) 200-3198 Strike Out Drugs (Donation to Celebrate Recovery) 9:00 a.m. Colby Bottoms Field, 797 W. Selma St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Watch local first responders compete for first place and bragging rights all while raising money for a great cause! Wiregrass Angel House Charity Run ($20 per Bike; $5 per Rider)

9:00 a.m. Wiregrass Angel House, 105 N. Bell St. Dothan, AL, 30303 60 miles in honor of 600+ area victims of violent crimes. Join us for a great ride to help bring awareness to the struggles victims endure in the aftermath of a violent crime and also honor their strength and the people who work to bring peace back to the victims. Ozark Walks for Autism ($25) 10:00 a.m. Steagall Park, 523 Faust Ave. Ozark, AL, 36360 10:00am at the pavilion by Kidzone. We will have areas with fun activities throughout the walk for family and kids, such as, bouncy houses an art area. (334) 379-0243 runsignup.com/Race/AL/Ozark/OzarkWalksforAutism Gourd Rattles ($20 per person plus $5 ParkPass) 12:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA, 39823 Each participant will create a gourd rattle using primitive tools like the Native Americans did many years ago. Meet at Group Shelter 2. Space limited to 15 participants, so register in advance. (229) 724-2150

Friday April 23

Teen Virtual Hangout: Harry Potter Trivia 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, For April’s Teen Virtual Hangout, we will be hanging out on Zoom and playing Harry Potter Trivia via Kahoot! Games. 20 participants. Registration required. www.dhcls.org Dothan Montessori School Spring Art Show 5:30 p.m. Episcopal Nativity Church, 205 Holly Lane, Dothan, AL 36301 Please join us for our annual spring Art Show featuring student artwork and a silent auction. Local artisans and food vendors will be on site as well.

Saturday April 24

Superhero 5K Run/Walk to Prevent Child Abuse 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Westgate BMX Track, 501 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36330 Let’s all join together and be a community of Superheros for children! We’ll have a one-mile fun run kids at 9am! Every child needs a hero, but abused children need a SUPERHERO!! (334) 671-1966 www.exchangecap.org/events Run Baby Run 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Bates Memorial Stadium, 400 E. Watts Ave. Enterprise, AL, 36330 5k run/walk, 1mile fun run, diaper dash and spring craft bazaar (334) 417-0270 www.alabamaweps.org 2021 Chalk Walk Art Competition 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Open to Individual artists ages 6-15 and 16+. The Public is invited to watch these artists free of charge create their works of art and VOTE for your favorite artist or work of art through the People’s Choice Award. Food vendors will be on site. theculturalartscenter.org Hearth Cooking Demo 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join Alisa Hamm in the Watson Cabin on the fourth Saturday of the month from 10 a.m.-

Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

noon and watch as she cooks over an open hearth. www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Friday April 30

Wiregrass Autism Gala ($35 Single, $60 Couple) 7:00 p.m. Ozark Warehouse, 105 N. East Ave. Ozark, AL, 36360 A night of fun as we become “A Part of Your World” with Autism. Guest Speaker, Silent Auction, Cash Bar, and Dj!, (334) 379-0243 misswiregrassvoiceforautism@gmail.com

Saturday May 1

Dothan Fire Department Fit2Fight ($20) 8:00 a.m. Wiregrass Public Safety Center, 100 Public Safety Way Dothan, AL, 36303 All proceeds are used to purchase fitness equipment and provide health and wellness education. (334) 615-3500 raceentry.com Wiregrass Children’s Home Benefit Color Fun Run ($25) 9:00 a.m. Kiwanis Park, 1715 Whatley Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Walk, run, jog, and stroll the 5k (3 mile) track around Kiwanis Park in Dothan. Every mile you will have even more color thrown on you! ALL PROCEEDS WILL GO DIRECTLY TO THE WIREGRASS CHILDREN’S HOME! Festival in the Park (Free) 3:00 p.m. Johnny Henderson Family Park, 300 Hwy 167 N. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Fun for ALL ages! Festival in the Park will have many exciting attractions including live music, food trucks, carnival games, pony rides, inflatable games, train rides, birdhouse painting, fireworks & more! Unleashed (Tickets $30) 7:00 p.m. Enterprise Country Club, 3000 Ozark Hwy. Enterprise, AL, 36330 S.O.S. Animal Shelter Fundraiser. Dress: Spring Chic/Sunday Best - No Blue Jeans. Must be 21 to attend. No outside alcohol.

Friday May 7

The Orchestra Goes Wild! (General Admission $15; Military/Senior/Student $12)

7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 We will be playing some wild hits in this concert. You won’t want to miss it! the-orchestra-goes-wild.cheddarup.com

Every Monday

Mom & Me: Dad Too! (Free) 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., The Commons, Ft. Rucker, AL The playgroup is for families with children ages birth to 16 months. (334) 255-9647 rucker.armymwr.com

Every Tuesday

Story & Craft Time (Free) 10:00 a.m. Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, Join us for our virtual story time each week. Crafts for each MONTH will be available for pickup at all three libraries while supplies last. One per child. No large groups or daycare pick-ups. Designed for ages 2-6. www.dhcls.org

Every Wednesday

Tot Time (Free) 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., The Commons, Ft. Rucker, AL The playgroup is for families with children age 17-36 months. Registration and proof of immunization required. (334) 255-9647 rucker.armymwr.com Artist Escape (Free) 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Rudd Art Center, 144 E. Broad St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Stop by the Rudd Art Center any Wednesday and create art with us. Artist come and go 11am-3pm. There is no cost and all skill levels are welcome. So pack up your latest project and join us!

Every Thursday

Story Time (Free) Ozark-Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 We’re excited to announce we are now hosting a weekly Story Time, with limited seating, on Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. in the Library’s West Wing! Registration is required. Limited seating available. (334) 774-5480 chlibrary@troycable.net ozarklibrary.com

Every Friday

Story Time (Free) 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL This program introduces the joy of reading to children ages 2 - 5 years old, and enhances parent-child interaction. A typical Story Time includes a story and coloring or craft time. (334) 255-0891 rucker.armymwr.com Technology Class (Free) 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Ozark-Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 A FREE one-hour class with Mr. Andrew that provides assistance with smartphones, tablets, and e-readers. By appointment only - call or register at the front desk. (334) 774-5480 chlibrary@troycable.net ozarklibrary.com

Every Saturday

Computer Class (Free) 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m., Ozark-Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Mr. Darnell will teach computer basics and if you have questions, he has answers!! (334) 774-5480 ozarklibrary.com Wine Down with Art ($30 per person) 4:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., All About Art, 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 This is a step by step class for all experience levels. You must pay in advance to reserve your spot for the evening. Ages 18+. Bring your own beverages and refreshments and we will provide everything else. Sign up in store, online, or over the phone. (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com Pokemon League at Home (Free) 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Ozark-Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Pokémon League at Home is a new interactive way for players to take part in events and tournaments from the safety of their home. Players will be able to earn digital prizes by participating in different challenges. (334) 774-5480 chlibrary@troycable.net ozarklibrary.com

Every Tuesday & Thursday

Zumba Classes ($20 per month) 6:00 p.m. Enterprise Recreation Center, 421 E. Lee St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED and SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Registrations will be held monthly. Participants must be 16 years of age or older. (334) 348-2686

Because of ever-changing circumstances due to Covid-19, please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

www.wiregrassparents.com

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Parents’ Ultimate Guide to Instagram When you see a teen taking a selfie, chances are that picture will end up on social media. Often, that means Instagram, one of the most popular social image-sharing platforms in the world. What’s all the fuss about? Teens love Instagram for a lot of reasons, but most importantly, that’s where their friends are. They can also keep tabs on their favorite celebrities, follow accounts that align with their interests, and, of course, maintain their own profile (or profiles) that present an image of themselves to their friends -- and sometimes to the world. As with all social media, the elements that make teens love Instagram can also be breeding grounds for trouble. Depending on whom you follow or what you search for, you can find lots of mature content. And the comments on posts can be downright vicious, especially if an account is public. Then there’s the pressure. Lots of kids feel that they have to maintain a perfect profile, so they’re constantly scanning posts for likes and deleting ones that don’t measure up. And they have to check their feeds all day (and sometimes at night) for updates from friends. Instagram also has a commercial aspect. Embedded ads, celebrity endorsements, and links to buy products are all over kids’ feeds. Still, with some guidance around settings, limits on use, and ongoing conversations about content and comments, Instagram can be a place for kids to connect and be creative. Here we answer a few of your most common questions.

What kinds of content will my kid see on Instagram? The kinds of

content kids will see mostly depends on whom they follow: If they only follow friends and don’t search for anything, they may see only pictures of their friends having fun. But kids rarely limit their feeds to people they

know, so it’s likely they’ll see mature content (including sexy stuff, swearing, and substance use), mean or sexual comments, and hashtags about suicide, anorexia, and other concerning topics. If they follow celebrities, they’ll probably also see marketing.

How can I monitor my kid’s activity on Instagram? You can ask your kid to

give you a tour of their Insta. Ask them to walk you through their account, explain memes and comments, discuss friends, and share whatever comes up. Or try one of these ideas:

• Create your own Instagram account and follow your kid. You’ll see what they post (unless they block you), but you won’t see their DMs (direct messages). • Follow their friends. It’s not unusual for parents to be friends with their kids’ friends online (but you should hold back on comments). If you’re close with your kids’ friends, you can follow each other and keep tabs on your kid’s doings. • Ask for your kid’s Instagram username and password. Then, you can log in as them and review their accounts. • Do spot checks. Either random or scheduled, these check-ins give you time to sit down together and go through your kid’s feed. • Install a third-party monitoring app. Parental controls such as Bark give you a lot of visibility into what kids are doing online. Learn more about parental controls.

section -- and you should spend some time here if you’re helping your kid set up their first account. You can’t lock Privacy settings, though, so be aware that kids can change them back. A few more key Instagram privacy settings: Comment controls. You can limit comments to followers, block comments from specific people, hide “offensive” comments, and create specific filters for words and phrases. Resharing to stories. You can control whether or not other people can reshare your posts. Photos and videos. You can prevent people from automatically adding pictures of you to your profile without your approval and hide photos and videos so they don’t display in your feed.

What can I do if it seems like my kid can’t stop looking at Instagram? All

default, so the first thing to do is make your kid’s private. To do this, go to Settings from your profile page. Select Privacy and toggle on Private Account. With a private account, only people you approve can see what you post. You get a lot of options in the Privacy

social media uses persuasive techniques to keep users engaged, and while it can help kids feel connected to friends and family -- especially during times of isolation like extended school breaks -- it’s easy to get sucked in for longer periods than is healthy. If your teen has trouble logging off when they have other stuff to do or they just need a break, you can try using Instagram’s Your Activity feature, which the company introduced to help people be more aware of the time they’re spending on the app and to set limits for themselves. To get to Your Activity, go to the profile page, tap the three horizontal lines, select Your Activity, and then tap Time. You’ll see your daily average, and you can set a time limit and get a reminder to stop. If your kid has mastered self-regulation, Your Activity may work to curb their use. If not, you can try using the parental controls built into your phone’s operating system (Screen Time on iOS or the Family Link app on Android) to block access and set time limits on all the apps on your kid’s phone. A few other tricks: Adjust or turn off notifications completely to calm the need to check the phone every few minutes; and tell kids to stop scrolling once they see the “You’re all caught up!” message that tells them there’s no new content to see since the last time they checked.

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Is there any way to limit or restrict my kid’s activity on Instagram, including connecting with strangers? Instagram accounts are public by

during this journey when I had to run after joy. I often say that I don’t like the process, but I trust the builder. After I was given the diagnosis, I had to have a conversation with myself, one that was specific to me. One that when times became hard and I didn’t understand, I would have something to draw from. I’ve given these talks to thousands of people, and it was always easy to find the right words, but when you’ve got to self-talk, it’s a lot more intentional. I had to give every thought that was entering my mind an opportunity to express itself. When loss showed up, I had to grieve. I had to cry for what I thought my life was supposed to look like. The moments when It felt like I was going to fall down and might not get up, I had to allow myself to fall down. If I had to have a pity party, I knew that joy was on the other side. I’m learning to be okay with however I’m feeling in the moment.

Harolyn Benjamin

WP: Speaking of helping people… you’re the woman behind Women Who Care. What was the catalyst for this outreach and how much has it grown over the years?

WP: After a long battle with seemingly mysterious health issues, you were recently diagnosed with Generalized Myasthenia Gravis - an autoimmune disease that attacks the muscles. What was the journey like to get there?

HB: I started Women Who Care Inc, in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, August 18, 1998, because of the poverty level, but I was also trying to find my place there. I was trying to find a program that would help me build my self-esteem, [and] I realized very quickly there was nothing available. If I was going to have it, I had to create it. I contacted a world-known motivational speaker named Les Brown, and he became my mentor. Then I was offered an opportunity to speak at the national Black Mayors Conference. Once I said yes to my purpose, doors began to open up. We’ve been providing training, education and enabling our guests to find their place. We also provide job readiness, parenting, life-coaching services, and workshops. These services have been free since we started 20 years ago. We have two physical locations in Enterprise and Elba. We also assist those living in the New Orleans metropolitan area. My goal has always been to have multiple locations throughout the country. That dream hasn’t changed, even while I’ve been in the midst of this current life change. My number one goal has been and continues to be to help one person, one family, one community at a time.

HB: In 2017, when I started having difficulty walking, chewing, talking, swallowing, eating, and holding my head up, it was tough. I kept telling my husband I felt like my body wanted to break up with me. It was difficult to wrap my head around the fact that I couldn’t fix what was happening to me. Because that’s what I do: I fix things. That’s what we as women do, right? God kept saying ‘It is Well!’ But to be honest, nothing about it looked well. It was hard; it was confusing. My husband made it very clear we were going to see any and everyone about this situation. Every day he would come home and say, “I made you an appointment for this or that doctor.” One day, I watched him move from one side of the yard to the other. At first, I thought he was exercising, and then I looked out the door. And realized he was using the bricks to make additional stairs so that it would be easier to get in and out of the house. My daughter, Deanna, and her husband, DJ, would take me from emergency room to emergency room trying to find any answers. My youngest son, Marshawn, would call and encourage me. And my oldest son, Marcellus, went to all of my appointments. And my daughter in love, Jasmin, would help me when I couldn’t physically help myself, including preparing my meals, getting dressed and wound care. Thank God for Jasmin. I couldn’t help but have joy, as well as be grateful and thankful, because God was pouring into me what I believed I had done for others in my life.

WP: Your children are grown now, but do you think you ever really stop mothering? HB: Nope. I still find myself giving wanted and unwanted advice. They will always be my babies; they will forever need sound wisdom. And, Ashton, you know I always have something to say. But the best advice I can give them: live your best life ever. Enjoy everything, especially the good, the bad, and yes, the ugly. WP: How is being a grandmother different from being a mom? HB: Omgoodness, they are just yummy. They have these little personalities. And they love to see you and tell you everything. They appreciate everything that you do and they love telling on their parents so they can see them get in trouble. I just believe my job is to spoil them and remind their parents what they did at that age.

WP: Talk to me about how you were able to keep “Choosing Joy” throughout this journey. Harolyn Benjamin is the founder of Women Who Care in Enterprise. She and her husband, Michael, will celebrate their 34th wedding anniversary this year. They have three children: Marcellus, Marshawn, and Deanna (Borders); four grandchildren: Courtney (13), Demitrius (5), Dexter (4), and Layla (16 months);

HB: Any person who has ever gone through a health crisis can tell you it can create such fear. It can cause you to stay in a place of uncertainty. So if I told you I was hanging out with joy every day, well now that wouldn’t be true. There have been many times Wiregrass Parents I April 2021

and two fur babies, Blue and Bluay.

www.wiregrassparents.com

I wish I could see the board instead of trying to read through your vape cloud. - Sarah, 8th Grade

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