Wiregrass Parents - April 2022 by KeepSharing

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FLU & PNEUMONIA

FACTS

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

U L F T H G FI A I N O M U & PNE

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April2022 18

Volume 4 Number 8

Columns 2

From the Publisher Ashton Wright

Pros and Cons of Social Media

What your teen will be missing.

What Type of Camp Will Your Child Like?

Choose based on their personality.

The Early Years Kishia Saffold

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Kids Health Watch by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

18 Tweens, Teens and

Screens

Kristi Bush, LSW

Summer Camp Guide

Find the perfect camp for your child in our extensive listing.

Mom to Mom

Meet local mom and foster parent, Erica Harris. You’ll be inspired!

Departments 5

On The Cover Macey Greye Salter, 6, is the daughter of the late Jelan Salter and Brittany and Darius McCree. Macey is a dancer and softball player who enjoys playing outside, swimming, and spending time with friends. She has one sister, Blair.

Teacher of the Month 6

Bits & Pieces 10

School Bits 28

Mom to Mom

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FromThePublisher The Area’s Go-To Resource for Families

Sleep when the baby sleeps. When I was an expectant mother, that was the advice I heard most, often served with a side of laughter. While it’s not necessarily bad advice, it’s not particularly helpful either, especially when this particular bit of wisdom is pretty obvious. In fact, each month I interview a local mom about her various experiences, and I ask every one of them if they have any advice or words of wisdom for new parents. Not once has any of them responded with sleep when the baby sleeps. Instead, I get insightful answers that could be potentially life-changing for the moms who read them. Of course, hindsight is 20/20. But I think all moms, regardless of their backgrounds, have something valuable to offer to other moms, even if it’s just a reminder that we’re not alone on this crazy journey. Becoming a mom is simultaneously the most rewarding and most difficult thing I’ve done in my life. It’s an all-consuming job, no matter your situation, and it’s so easy to lose yourself to mom burnout. I feel like that was the part I was the most unprepared for, and if I could go back and give my new-mom self some words of wisdom, it would be these: Take a real shower, brush your hair (even if it does end up in a messy bun), and put on real clothes. Getting ready for the day will make a huge difference in your mood. Know who your village is, and don’t be afraid to call them for help while you adjust to your new family dynamic. Trust your instincts. When something feels not right, listen to your mom gut. You’ll be surprised just how often it’s right. And sleep when the baby sleeps. I say that one with a little bit of irony, but it’s still good advice. Sleep will be hard to come by in that first year, so if you can, sleep when the baby sleeps. Especially if you are tired. Those dirty dishes and piles of laundry can wait. Summer is fast approaching. I, for one, am looking forward to not having to set my alarm for quite so early every day. Alexis, meanwhile, is looking forward to attending as many art camps as she possibly can, and there are quite a few to choose from in our area. We’ve rounded up those, as well as all the other types of camps your child can attend, in this year’s Summer Camp Guide, and our feature article this month offer some great insight: What Kind of Camp Will Your Child Like? Parenting is not for the faint of heart, that’s for sure, and there is no one-size-fitsall manual, except for maybe Bluey. One of my favorite episodes of the show is called Mum School. In it, Bluey asks her mom to grade her parenting skills. In the end, Bluey fails, but her mom reassures her that all parents fail some days but we can always try again tomorrow. And that’s something we can all look forward to.

Ashton

Publisher Ashton Wright ashton@wiregrassparents.com (334) 714-7831 Editor DeAnne Watson editor@wiregrassparents.com Contributing Writers Kristi Bush, LSW Heather Choat, MD Dr. Dan Denney Tanni Haas, Ph.D. Cheryl Maguire Kishia Saffold

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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Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

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.

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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 2022 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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ON STAGE DOTHAN OPERA HOUSE Apr. 26-30 7:00 PM Tickets $25 On Sale Apr. 11 SEACT.com

Summer Camps & Classes for Dothan and the Wiregrass

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Beginners & Experienced Students Financial Assistance Available

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TheEarlyYears Childcare Insights from Kishia Saffold

Consider a Summer of Learning The end of the school year is quickly approaching. By now you have to start deciding what to do or where the kids will go in the summer. Just because they’re not going into a physical classroom doesn’t mean that learning automatically stops. There is an old saying, “If you don’t use it, you lose it,” and with that thought process in mind, I am of the persuasion that summers are the best time to accelerate learning and provide enrichment activities for your children. Wait! I know what you’re probably thinking. They need some time off. Yes, that’s true, but not as much as you think. Summer break usually lasts somewhere between six to ten weeks. What if we taught our kids to pursue something new like learning a sport or a new language? Playing a musical instrument, traveling,

Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

planting a garden, or starting a business? The possibilities are truly endless. Summer breaks can also be used to enrich lessons your child may have struggled with during the school year. When my daughter was younger, she HATED reading. As a parent and early childhood educator, I knew what she didn’t... having strong reading skills improves your vocabulary and reading comprehension, skills that will be needed in all areas of study and subject matters. Fortunately she was motivated by money. Initially, I paid her $1 per book and let her choose the book, no matter how bad I hated it. My only requirement was that she write out a summary of the book. Eventually we increased it to $2 per book. Then I found a local program that paid children $3 per book for up to five books per week.

Somewhere during this process she developed a love of reading. She went on to win AR awards for most points and even had a poster printed in the library with her picture on it because she was in there reading so much! Our kids are going to be kids. They want what they want and will give you grief about it if you don’t give into their whims. But as parents, if we change our thought process and approach summers with some intention, not only can fun memories be made, but lifelong lessons too. 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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Teresa Gibson Emmanuel Christian School

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engaged and excited about learning in different ways is one of my favorite teaching moments.” Gibson says she begins each class with prayer and a Bible story. “This allows the children to share what’s on their hearts. We sing during math and reading. At times, we move our science lessons outside.” As her students move on to the next grade level, Gibson says she prays the seeds of the Gospel begin to grow. “I see future leaders in my classroom and I want them to not only know the grade level requirements, but also learn how to love one another, forgive, and have a kind heart.” Gibson says the moment a student realizes his or her potential is the most rewarding thing about being a teacher. “Many times, young students think they cannot do something and get frustrated. The excitement they show when they realize their abilities and can do something new are the happiest moments in class,” she says. “When the lightbulb moment happens, it is pure joy to see the excitement on their faces when they realize, “I CAN do this.”

Kelli Watford says her son’s first grade teacher at Emmanuel Christian School deserves to be the Wiregrass Parents Teacher of the Month ffor many reasons, but mostly because she loves what she does. “I, as a parent, see this in her everyday work and in my child each day,” Watford says. “Mrs. Gibson goes above and beyond with her students. She provides for her students just like they are her very own.” Gibson has been working with ECS since 2008, including as a teaching assistant, K-5 tutor, K-5 computer teacher, and teaching fifth grade. She says she always wanted to be a teacher. “As a child, my siblings and I would play school. I remember having so much fun pretending to be the teacher. When I was in the sixth grade, I enjoyed tutoring first graders. Watching their confidence increase from week to week ignited my passion for helping children learn.” Watford says Gibson makes learning fun by providing extra activities and fun projects to help her students learn. “I enjoy finding that specific learning style each student has,” Gibson says. “We have creative activities both inside and outside of the classroom. Seeing how students become more

Teresa Gibson received her bachelor’s degree from the University of West Florida. She and her husband, Rob, have five children, five grandchildren, and a dog named Chief.

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Easter at the Farmers Market

Superhero 5K to Prevent Child Abuse

Saturday, April 9, 7:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Enterprise Farmers Market 525 N. Main St., Enterprise AL This year’s event will feature all the wonderful produce and arts and crafts vendors, games, hat decorating and our Eggstra-Special, Deviled Egg Contest! The Easter Bunny is also rumored to be making an appearance. We hope you will join us for all the fun and check out the details below for the events and contest. Pre-registration for the Deviled Egg Contest is preferred by calling Kay Kirkland at: 334-348-2310 or 334-406-1394 or by emailing her at kkirkland@enterpriseal.gov. Entries will be accepted on the day of the events as well. Deviled Egg Contest Details: To enter the Deviled Egg Contest, please bring 12 halves or whole eggs, depending on your recipe and presentation, to the Farmers Market between 8 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Prizes awarded in Deviled Egg contest in five categories.

Sunday, April 24, 3:00 p.m. Westgate Tennis Center, 801 Recreation Rd., Dothan AL www.exchangecap.org; (334) 671-1966 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! Join us Sunday, April 24th at 3pm at the Westgate Tennis Center for our Superhero 5K Run/Walk to Prevent Child Abuse and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run! We are bringing back the Family Fun Kid’s Area this year- so look for bouncy houses, face painting, lots of games, laughter, and fun! To learn more about the services we provide and/or to register for this event or find out how to be a superhero sponsor, visit us at www.exchangecap.org or call Pam Miles at 334-671-1966 Every child needs a hero, but abused children need a SUPERHERO! Eagle Eye Outfitters will be providing swag bags for pre-registered runners! You DO NOT want to miss out on the swag bags! 100% of proceeds from our Superhero 5K are used to fund our child abuse prevention programs! We can all play a role in being superheroes for kids!!! Let’s join together as a community of superheroes for kids!

Easter Egg Hunt & Touch-A-Truck

Saturday, April 9, 11:00 a.m. EST Kolomoki Mounds State Park 205 Indian Mounds Rd., Blakely GA Join us in the day use area for our annual Easter egg hunt. Over 4,000 eggs will be hidden. Children can climb on emergency response vehicles, enjoy a boat ride and visit with the Easter bunny. The egg hunt starts at promptly 1:00 p.m. EST so arrive EARLY! Concessions will be sold. $5/child

Wiregrass Children’s Home Benefit Color Fun Run/Walk

Saturday, May 7, 9:00 a.m. Kiwanis Park, 1715 Whatley Dr., Dothan AL 36303 Come join us in our 2nd year with the most colorful fundraiser around! All proceeds will go directly to Wiregrass Children’s Home in memory of a special volunteer in our hearts, CW2 Daniel Prial. $25 a runner will include an opening ceremony color packet to start the festivities off, a logo white t-shirt to show off all your color, and a medal at the end! The first 100 registered are guaranteed a tshirt & medal. 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! Arrive starting at 8:00 a.m. The run/walk will start at 9:00 a.m. Business Sponsorships needed! $500 sponsor will have your logo on our tshirt, and signage at the event! Please email to become a sponsor! ashley@wiregrasschildrenshome.org Register online at www.eventbrite.com

39th National Mayhaw Festival

Saturday, April 16, 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. EST Downtown Colquitt, Georgia The festival is kicked off with it’s National Mayhaw Parade at 10am through Downtown Colquitt. Enjoy local food vendors, crafts and entertainment from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Other National Mayhaw events include: Saturday, April 9th-Mayhaw Poker Run Saturday, April 23rd-Fat Tire Bike Ride Friday, April 29th-Mayhaw Classic Golf Tournament Saturday, April 30th-Mayhaw 5K and 1 mile Fun Run Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

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Saturday, April 9, 10:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Join us in beautiful Downtown Enterprise for our annual Spring Festival at the Monument featuring the vendor market, music, Easter hat parade and contest, kids zone, food stations, and more! Check our page for event updates and vendor/ sponsor spotlights! For the first time ever, Downtown Enterprise is hosting an Easter Hat Parade! Create your own beautiful Easter hat and come down to participate - it’s free! Need help making a hat? Visit the Enterprise Farmers Market that morning at 9AM to decorate your hat before the parade! Join us for our Easter Hat Contest during the Spring Festival at the Monument! It is free to compete and first place winners will receive a prize! Registration is from 10AM - 12:15PM.

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat

April 26-30 at the Dothan Opera House Tickets: $25 * www.seact.com One of the most enduring shows of all time, Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat is a reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven brothers, and the coat of many colors. Told entirely through song with the help of a Narrator, the musical follows preferred son Joseph. Beloved because of its story, and magical music presented in a variety of styles: “Those Canaan Days,”), “One More Angel in Heaven,” “Benjamin Calypso,” and “Any Dream Will Do.”

Saturday, April 30, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, May 1, 12-4 p.m. Enterprise State Community College Track 600 Plaza Dr., Enterprise AL 36330 www.coffeecountyartsaliance.com The Piney Woods Fine Arts Festival is dedicated to the promotion and awareness of visual arts to enrich the lives of all the people of Coffee County and the surrounding areas. Piney Woods features original art and crafts by approximately 100 artists, a children’s fun center, food and entertainment. Special events include a Civil War Living Display and the Weevil City Cruisers Car and Truck Show. This year’s event will feature live music from Lil’ Jimmy Reed on Saturday, April 30th. You will not want to miss this show! There is no admission fee for this event, but your donations are appreciated.

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DOTHAN EAST 1052 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan, AL 36303 334.699.3600

Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

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Spring Festival at the Monument

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Prediabetes & Type 2 Diabetes in Children Type 2 Diabetes (T2D) happens when blood sugar levels are too high because the body cannot use insulin properly. Prediabetes is when the blood sugar levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to meet the cutoff for diabetes. Prediabetes is usually present before someone is diagnosed with overt T2D. Interestingly, people with prediabetes may be able to return blood sugar levels back to normal and prevent or delay the progression to T2D. While family history and genetics play a role, the biggest risk factor in the development of prediabetes or T2D is excessive weight gain. It’s no secret that with the increase in pediatric obesity, there has been an increase in the prevalence of prediabetes and T2D in children. In fact, in the past two years since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the rate of hospitalizations for new-onset T2D doubled in youth. Interruption to usual routines and activities lead to more sedentary days for many people. This

Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

can also contribute to increased snacking and consumption of sugary foods and drinks - all of which lead to weight gain. Once a diagnosis of prediabetes or T2D is made, children often need oral medication and routine blood sugar checking at home. Ultimately, if not managed, the high blood sugar levels can lead to pancreas exhaustion and the need for long-term daily insulin shots. However, there are ways to prevent children from getting prediabetes or T2D. These methods deal mostly with maintaining healthy body weight. By completely avoiding sugar-sweetened beverages and replacing them with water or switching to “diet” or “zero” drinks, a child’s blood sugar trend may improve significantly. By sticking to age-appropriate calorie limits, weight may begin to decrease even if one is not able to exercise daily. Ask your pediatrician about healthy drinks, snacks, and an appropriate calorie limit for your child if there is any question.

Signs your child may need to be tested for prediabetes or T2D are frequent urination, frequent thirst, or darkening of the skin around the base of the neck with recent weight gain, especially if there is strong family history. Ensure children have activities to keep them moving over the summer to avoid excessive weight gain while out of school. Keeping an active routine is one of the best ways to prevent sedentary behavior and extra snacking. Prevention is key!

Dr. Heather Choat is a Pediatric Endocrinologist licensed by the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and certified by the Pediatric Endocrinology Medical Board of the American Board of Pediatrics. In July 2019, Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network welcomed Dr. Choat as a physician at Dothan Pediatric Subspecialty Clinic. Dr. Choat’s clinical interests include type 1 diabetes mellitus, thyroid and parathyroid diseases, and disorders of growth and pubertal development.

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Living Well with Valerie Spring Cleaning YAY for SPRING and spring cleaning! A time to Let go of things that no longer serve us. It can be hard. Stuff has given me an illusion of security. Letting go of things I might need one day can leave me feeling a bit insecure. But what if I need it? It takes time to prepare myself because yes, it is emotional. Things are things, and yet we are the ones who apply emotion to them. Things that were my parents’ or my kids’; things that take up space but do not bring joy. Not only do I keep things that don’t bring me joy, but I have also moved that stuff around from four different houses. I have kept participation trophies the boys no longer care about because I assigned it an emotional value. I deemed it helpful for their security. I am not the only one. It seems like more of us are keeping things. Although historically it has been pretty easy for me to throw away and clear out, I found after my divorce it was much harder, which of course makes perfect sense. When we go through a stressful life event, such as losing a loved one or divorce, it can trigger hoarding tenden-

cies. Before you start the physical act of throwing away, deal with any emotions. Are you dreading it? Any feelings of guilt, shame, frustration or sadness? Decide what needs your attention, and to avoid bouncing from room to room, pick one room. Notice how many times you distract yourself. Channel your inner Marie Kondo:

thank it and let it go! I think of the happiness it will give to someone else, making room in my closet, and the newness it allows. Allowing things to come and go without attachment is called aparigraha in Sanskrit. Aparigraha is the last of the yamas, or ethical behaviors, listed in the Eight Limbs of Yoga by

Patanjali. I continue to practice yoga on and off the mat. I notice memories that come up with each thing, and I allow it. Sometimes that is hard. Some things make me mad; others make me laugh. Object attachment is the experience a person has when they feel an emotional attachment to an inanimate object and may even feel a sense of loss if they were to part with the object. So do you have attached an emotion to an inanimate object? That’s okay! You get to choose when to let it go. Keep asking yourself, “Does this bring me joy?” Ask for help when you feel overwhelmed. Clutter affects our emotional and physical well-being and our ability to focus. A cluttered home can lead to a stressful home. Decluttering is a form of self-care. Self-care is everything you do to take care of your physical and emotional health and letting go of that inanimate object is another way to show self-love.

Valerie Thompson is a health coach, yoga instructor, meditator, breath instructor, and mom of two grown boys.

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Autauga County Schools

Girard Intermediate Students Lead Pledge at School Board Meeting At February’s Dothan City Board of Education meeting, we had the pleasure of having Zaniya D. and Talijah H. from Girard Intermediate present the Pledge of Allegiance. We are so proud to have students in our district like Zaniya and Talijah and look forward to involving our students in future Board of Education meetings.

Dothan Prep Donates $5k to Relay for Life

Carver School Research Garden Gets Nearly $15k

Southeast Gas recently announced its 2022 Give Back to School Contributions of $148,000 to 20 public school systems in Alabama. Dothan City Schools was the recipient of $14,566. A portion of the funds will be used towards The Research Garden at The Carver School for Mathematics, Science, and Technology. The Give Back to Schools initiative was established by Southeast Gas and its Board of Directors in 2010, and provides dollars to public schools based solely on their natural gas usage for the previous year. So, the more natural gas a school system uses, the more dollars that the system will receive. Board members work alongside superintendents in each school system to determine the best way to allocate funds.

Duffy Wins Dothan High Resume Contest

Congratulations to Megan Duffy for winning the Dothan High School Senior Resume Contest. The contest was sponsored by MidSouth Bank and judged by the Alabama Career Center. Megan received a $100 prize. The next stages of the competition will be a Houston County contest and a Regional contest sponsored by PowerSouth and Southeast AlabamaWorks scholarships will be awarded to the winners at these stages. Pictured (L-R) Mr. Joey Meigs, Interim Principal Dothan High School, Miss Megan Duffy, Senior Dothan High School, Mr. Josh Haisten, Houston County Market President MidSouth Bank and Mrs. Jessica Barefield, Community Relations Coordinator for MidSouth Bank. Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

Dothan Preparatory Academy donated $5,000 to the Houston County Chapter of Relay for Life. The students raised the funds by hosting a Student vs. SRO Basketball Game and a Valentine’s Day Dance! The check was presented by DPA’s SGA and Relay for Life Team Captain Mrs. Candance Wilson. Also present for the presentation were Principal James Williams, Superintendent Dr. Dennis Coe, and District 6 School Board Member Mrs. Aurie Jenkins.

Highlands Elementary Archery Teams Win Big

Congratulations to our Archery Team! We are so proud of all of you! *Our 4th & 5th grade team finished in 2nd place. *Our 6th grade team set a school record of 2,796 points. They competed against teams of 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students and were only 4 points shy of winning the Pike County Regional Tournament. *Marley Norton won 1st place in the Girl’s Elementary division. *Yates Tucker placed 5th in the Boy’s Elementary division. *Erin McKinley placed 3rd in the Girl’s Middle School division. *Jacob Champlin and Hunter House tied for 1st place in the Boy’s Middle School division. Jacob won the tie breaker with 7 bulls-eyes, compared to Hunter’s 6. www.wiregrassparents.com

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Enterprise Expressions Impress at Competition

Congratulations to the Enterprise Expressions! They won Best Visuals (choreography), Best Soloist - Ashley Owens, 2nd Place overall in their division, and People’s Choice Award at the Peach State Show Choir Invitational 2022 competition in Tift County Georgia. They have won Best Soloist in each of their four competitions of the season with three different student winners. Awesome job!

Carroll High Names 2023 Reps

CONGRATULATIONS to our class of 2023 EAGLE REPRESENTATIVES! Their BIG eagle, LITTLE eagle reveal was today and they are ready for their senior year! Class of 2023 Eagle Reps pictured from left to right: Back row- Dwight Flores, Colton Rebren, Kai Johnson, Stinson Draper, Jalen Plott, Jaelon Cohen Front row: Jade Byars, Coila Buchanan, Laney Gresco, Emily Ganey, Tori Davidson Not Pictured: Gracie Jordan

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Houston Academy Archers Place in Troy Tournament

The HA Archery Club recently competed in the ALA NASP Regional tournament in Troy on Friday, March 4. Congratulations to Bruno Ciccarelli who earned 2nd place in the High School boys division and Mia Telesco who earned 3rd place in the High School girls division.

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

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

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

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Autauga County Schools Houston Academy Model UN Teams Perform Well at Competition

Model United Nations, also known as Model UN or MUN, is an educational simulation and/or academic competition in which students learn about diplomacy, international relations, and the United Nations. MUN involves and teaches research, public speaking, debating, and writing skills, in addition to critical thinking, teamwork, and leadership abilities. The MS Model United Nations teams recently competed and performed exceptionally well! The Botswana team received 1st Alternate for Outstanding Delegation, 1st Alternate for Overall Best Native Dress, and 3rd Alternate for Outstanding Resolution. Michael Elliott received 3rd Alternate Outstanding Boy Delegate. Megan Hartman was the top Winner for Outstanding Girl Delegate. The team representing the Central African Republic was the Winner for Flag Presentation, 1st Alternate for Outstanding Resolution, 3rd Alternate for Outstanding Delegation, and 3rd Alternate for Native Dress in the African Bloc. Team members for Botswana are Michael Elliott, Megan Hartman, Aidan Phillips, Eva Sturridge, Reina Sturridge, and Anna Watkins. Team members for the Central African Republic are Ganesh Avula, Elle Barron, Julia Batts, Maddy Greenwalt, Caroline Heersink, Amulya Reddy, and Merrill Scarbrough.Congratulations to all of the team members for their hard work and success!

Enterprise JROTC Take Second in Competition

Enterprise High School JROTC Wildcat Battalion represented EHS and the City of Enterprise in an outstanding manner at the Sidney Lanier Invitational Academic, Drill and PT Competition on Saturday, 26 February 2022. The Wildcat Battalion finished 2nd Overall with team and individual results listed below: Academic Team Commanded by Alisa Mason 2nd Place. PT Team 1 Commanded by Lauren Rodgers 1st Place PT. Team 2 Commanded by Braden Parkinson 2nd Place. Individual PT Awards - Jacob Tillery 1st Overall with a score of 364, Lauren Rodgers 2nd Overall with a score of 353 and Emma McCrea with a score of 350. Blue Knights Drill Team Commanded by Brett Tessay placed 1st in Armed Inspection and Armed Platoon Exhibition. Blue Knights placed 2nd in Armed Platoon Regulation. Jacob Upchurch commanded the Armed Squad Exhibition and placed 1st. Blue Knights Color Guard Commanded by Carson Brillhart placed 2nd in Armed Color Guard. Belles of the Blue Knights Commanded by Faith Mason placed 1st in Unarmed Inspection, Unarmed Exhibition and Unarmed Platoon Regulation. Brianna LeBlanc commanded Squad Unarmed Exhibition and placed 1st. Jacob Upchurch placed 1st in Armed Individual Exhibition Jacob Upchurch and Joshua Foor placed 1st in Armed Dual Exhibition. Aurielle Harvey and Alondra Santillan placed 1st in Unarmed Dual Exhibition.

Dothan Prep Students Learn About Banking

In Ms. White’s Career Prep classes, students completed a project on Banks. Students learned the differences between a savings account, CD account and money market account. Students examined the different interest rates each bank offered, differentiated between minimum balance requirements and penalties for each bank. Students also had to make a selection of the best bank based upon their research and personal needs. Overall, students enjoyed learning about financial institutions in the Dothan area. Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

Highlands SGA Designs Egg for DABG Highlands Elementary SGA participated in Dothan Botanical Gardens Egg Quest. Be sure to visit the Botanical Gardens during March 14-April 17 to see all the decorated eggs!

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Carver 6th Graders Raising Chicks

Chirp, peep! We are excited to announce our baby chicks have hatched! Our sixth-grade students have been learning about a chicken’s life cycle with help from Houston County Alabama Extension Office. We have tracked the chicks’ development from the embryonic stage until last Friday when the chicks began to hatch! We will continue to care for our fuzzy, feathery friends in our science lab!

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Coppinville Jr. Beta Club Advancing to State

Congratulations to our BETA Club members who won awards at the Alabama BETA State Convention in Birmingham. Front row: Isaiah Banister, Lucy Lamar, Kendall Gates, and Reagan Minks. Row 2: Konnor Hutto, Annabella Willard, Abbie Lower, and Gianna Roca. Row 3: Sophie Wesolek, Shaniyah Green, Emeri Gerstner, Jianne Holcombe, and Alaina Harkness. Not pictured: Ayden Perkins, Abby Joreski, and A.J. Rendon as well as several committee members for Portfolio and team members for the Campaign Skit. Students will be competing again in June at the National BETA Convention in Nashville.

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Autauga County Schools 24 Dothan City Students Advance to State Science Fair

Dothan City Schools “showed up” and “showed out” at the Greater East Alabama Regional Science Fair in Auburn! Our students walked away with so many special awards, in addition to the 24 students who advanced to the state fair (ASEF) in April! Special Award Recognitions: • 100 Women Strong Achievement Award - Abigail B. & Ella B. (Highlands Elementary) • AU Biological Sciences Awards for Outstanding Poster in Animal and Plant Sciences Devin F. (Jerry Lee Faine Elementary School) • AU Biological Sciences Awards for Outstanding Poster in Medicine and Health Sciences - Drake R. (The Carver School for Mathematics, Science, and Technology) • AU Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry Award - Joseph H. (Dothan Preparatory) • AU Department of Geosciences Award - Ella S. & Rowynn S. (Highlands Elementary) • AU Physics Award for Ingenuity and Inventiveness - Alexander V. (The Carver School for Math, Science and Technology) • AU Samuel Ginn College of Engineering Award - Delroy W., Matthew F., & Peyton D. (Selma Street Elementary) • AU Spirit of Excellence - Maurice R. (Heard Elementary School) • AU Future Scientist Award - Maurice R. (Heard Elementary School) • Lemelson Early Inventor Prize - Evan N. (Morris Slingluff Elementary School) • Naval Science Award - Evan N. (Morris Slingluff Elementary School) • Society of Hispanic Professional Engineers Young Innovator Award - Devin F. (Jerry Lee Faine Elementary School) • Broadcom MASTERS Award (certificate) - Maurice R. (Heard Elementary School); Braylin C., Nautica K., Anna Lee S., Erin M. (Highlands Elementary School); Carter B., Sterling L., Kaelyn P. (The Carver School for Math, Science and Technology); Peyton D., Matthew F., Delroy W. (Selma Street Elementary School); Joseph H., Mary Kate G. (Dothan Preparatory Academy) GEARSEF Winners Advancing to ASEF: • Animal, Plant, Computational & Bioinformatics Science - Maurice R., Mary Kate G., Devin F. • Behavioral & Social Science - Nautica K., Erin M., Anna Lee S. • Chemistry - Drinda C., Joseph H., Logan B., Jacob C., Marshall C. • Engineering Mechanics - Sterling L., Delroy W., Matthew F., Peyton D., Evan N. • Energy: Sustainable Materials and Design - Barron C., Houston F., Zeke S. • Medicine, Health, & Translational Medicine Science - Evan D., Ethan P. • Physics, Astronomy, Mathematics & Materials Science - Carter B., Braylin C. • Bio-Engineering - Kaelyn P.

A SPECIAL THANK YOU to our phenomenal Science Fair Leads: Jenny Barkley, (Girard Intermediate School), Karen Milner (Kelly Springs ES), Nicole Davis (Kelly Springs ES), Ginny Dion (Beverlye Intermediate), Lori Lucien (Beverlye Intermediate), Joseph Suarez (Beverlye Intermediate), Aubrie McClenney (Carver MST), Alvin Wiggins (Faine ES), Merissa Thornton (Heard ES), Erin Woodham (Highlands ES), LaTonja Pride (Selma Street ES), Amy Jackson (Morris Slingluff ES), Beth Mustin (Dothan Preparatory Academy), Lisa Peacock (Carver 9 Academy), Chris Manasco (Dothan City Virtual School) and Keely Brewer (Dothan High School) for their support. Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

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Providence Recognizes Science Fair Winners Congratulations to our winners of the Providence science fair. Overall Winner- Carter King (pictured) 6th grade winners: 1st place - Carolina Hoffman 2nd place- Ella Barefield 3rd place- Elise Shipman 5th grade winners: 1st place- Jack Wilkins 2nd place- Jack Galloway 3rd place- Hadley Wade Honorable mentions: 6th - Andrew Nicholls 5th- Tyler Gallardo, Ava Johnson, and Eli Jones

Carroll JROTC Shoots Straight in Competition

Congrats to our JROTC Rifle Team! They brought home two 1st place medals from Anniston! Travis Robinson - 1st Place, 60-Shot Prone Paul Swanson - 1st Place, 60-Shot Standing www.wiregrassparents.com

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Dothan Varsity Soccer Teams Up with Carver Club

What a great afternoon for our Varsity boys team sharing their time and skills with the Soccer Club at the Carver School! Inspiring the future of DHS Wolves soccer!!! Thank you Principal Chris Payne for allowing them to come!

Superior Performance by Carroll Symphonic Band

The Symphonic Band earned straight Superior Ratings at the District VIII MPA. Thank you to everyone that helped us get here today. We couldn’t have done it without you!

Carroll HOSA Students Do Well at State Conference

Carroll High School Students attended the HOSA State Leadership Conference the first weekend in March. Jillian Owen tested locally and qualified top 20 in the whole state, to compete at SLC. Laney Gresco and Julie Ann Nugyen were our Voting Delegates who attended the Business session and voted for the State HOSA officers. Way to go, Eagles! HOSA students got to attend a session “Stop the Bleed” where they learned trauma situational life saving techniques, ans earned a certificate from UAB Emergency response Healthcare professionals.

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Autauga County Schools Dothan Prep Model UN Team Brings Home Nine Awards

Ten Dothan Preparatory Academy students representing Haiti and Morocco participated with their middle school peers from 10 different area schools at Troy University for the Southeast Alabama Model United Nations Assembly (SAMUN) on March 3-4. Our Dothan Preparatory Academy students came back with many accolades, awards and recognitions! Dothan Preparatory Academy took home the following awards: -Best Outstanding Dress (Africa Block): Morocco; Best Outstanding Dress (Developing Block): Haiti; Overall Outstanding Dress: Morocco; Outstanding Flag Presentation: 2nd Alternate – Haiti, 1st Alternate – Morocco; Outstanding Resolution: 3rd Alternate – Haiti (tie with Houston Academy - Botswana), Overall – Morocco; Outstanding Delegation: 2nd Alternate – Haiti, Overall – Morocco; Outstanding Boy Delegate: James D. of Morocco; Outstanding Girl Delegate: 3rd Alternate – Izabella E. of Haiti, 2nd Alternate – Gabrielle J. of Morocco, and 1st Alternate – Leia B. of Morocco In addition to the ten students from Dothan Preparatory Academy. Dothan City Schools was also represented by three SAMUN Officers from Carver 9th Grade Academy: Dawson B., Colby G. and Jaylan H.

Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

Kindness Rocks at Highlands Elementary

Highlands Elementary School’s Peer Helpers kicked off a kindness campaign at the beginning of February. They greeted students with signs related to kindness and drew kind sayings with sidewalk chalk for students to view as they came and left the school. They are currently working on creating a book about kindness that will be published and read to each class as well as helping Mrs. Harris with a “Kindness Rocks” garden.

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Highlands Takes 3rd in Science Contest

Dothan High Under New Leadership

Highlands placed third in the Science Olympiad! Congratulations to the team members!

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D.A. Smith Student Advancing to State Science Fair

Our D.A. Smith students did an amazing job of representing Ozark City Schools at GEARSEF (Greater East Alabama Science and Engineering Fair) at Auburn University Ava Biretz won 3rd place in the category of Earth and Environmental Sciences and she is advancing to the state science fair next month Ivan Ibarra won the Auburn University Talent in Mathematics and Statistics Award.

Dothan High School has a new principal. The Dothan City Board of Education approved the hiring of Dr. Keith Bland on March 14, 2022. “I’m excited about the opportunity to be a part of a dynamic team that will continue to keep students at the center of every decision we make,” Bland says. Dr. Bland comes from Bay High School where he was an administrator and head football coach. He’s the former principal and assistant principal of J.R. Arnold High School in Panama City, Florida, as well as a former site supervisor for Grand Canyon University, Instructional Leader for Florida Virtual School, and Athletic Director for Apalachicola High School. He also taught special education and physical education at elementary and secondary levels for more than 15 years.

JUNE & JULY | 7 Art Camps for grades K - 8 Read a Little, Art a Lot! . Mixed Media Mayhem Stop Motion Animation . Art Explorations Collage College . Book Arts

SCAN ME TO

SUMMER CAMPS

Brook McGinnis | 334.794.3871 brook@wiregrassmuseum.org 17

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What Your Kids Are Missing If They Don’t Have Social Media

“Will my kids miss out if I do not give them social media?” I get this question at almost every one of my conferences. As parents, it is heartbreaking to think of our children being left behind. The struggle of fitting in seems to start earlier and earlier. By the end of elementary school groups are forming, certain friend circles are established, then middle school hits. Identity formation begins. Teens begin looking for friend groups to identify with. Fitting in, being seen, and feeling as if they are a part of something becomes paramount. Research tells us this desire to connect and be a part of friend groups leads to many social media fueled missteps. Devices, apps and social media platforms provide grossly under monitored, unfiltered access for tweens and teens to reach out for acceptance when they cannot meet their needs within their own immediate friend groups. Teens use the platforms to connect with one another. Why? Because it FEELS easier. A few filtered pictures, attention grabbing videos, and comments that can be made in less than 10 seconds can provide a sense of fitting in. Especially when face to face conversations still feel so hard and sticky. The response that is received on videos, pictures, and under comments can be either hurtful or uplifting. Either way, it begs the teen to return to chase the fleeting feeling of being seen and heard. And with 90 percent of kids over the age of eight… yes eight…having access to a device or social media platform, this way of connecting has become their way of life. However, it is wrought with problems. So back to our original question. What are your kids missing out on if they do not have social media? Will they be left out? The incredibly short and hard answer to accept is yes. With 90 percent of children sitting in this space, unless as parents we Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

come together and collectively decide as one that our youth simply will not have access until a certain age, this is the reality that our children are facing. They will miss out on Snapchat conversations between friends. They will miss out on knowing where their friends are and what they are doing. They will miss out on parties and get togethers. Some kids will miss out on conversations between teammates if they are on a team that encourages social media as a way to communicate. Now, let’s look at the other side of what they are missing out on if they don’t have access to social media. They will be missing out on pornography access. Instagram drama between friends. Ridiculous and sometimes dangerous Tik Tok trends. Predator access. Addictive gaming behaviors. Body image issues. Cyberbullying. Tech addictions. False connectivity. Ghosting. Access to platforms that rob our children’s innocence. So it begs the question…is it worth it? I am not naive enough to think that teens will, or should never, have access. This does not serve them either. But allowing our young children and teens untethered access does not serve them. It DOES rob them of a childhood. It does force them into a situation where the body and mind have to dance between the intrinsic desires to be a kid, and the forced idea that they should be a part of an incredibly adult space…because everyone else is. So where is the balance? Do we let them feel the pain of being left out or do 18

we allow access that can truly strip their childhood away from them, something that is so precious and that they are truly entitled to. They have but one chance to be little. To be innocent. To feel the freedom and wonder that comes with this innocence. Shouldn’t we protect that as long as we can? After doing this for many years, I feel a certain way about our youth and protecting the space they are in. To me, being left out feels like such a small price to pay to shield them from all of the adult spaces they will have to navigate the rest of their lives. How amazing would it be if all parents felt the same way? What if we come together and say NO MORE. Our kids are worth it. Their sweet, precious, care-free childhood hopes and dreams are worth a few missed conversations. A few skipped parties. What if we, as parents, made it so incredibly uncool to allow social media to rob them of that time? Maybe, just maybe, they really would not be missing out at all. Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

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When I was younger, I only had one choice for summer camp—the town camp. The town camp was a traditional all-day camp with a heavy emphasis on sports. I was more of a bookworm than an athlete so this type of camp was not a good match for my personality.

Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

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a good fit for a child who likes to try different things.

I remember coming home every day whining to my mom, “It was so hot and all we did was play (fill in a sport). Do I have to go to camp tomorrow?” By the end of the summer I’m sure my mom wished there were other options for me. Now there are so many choices that it can be overwhelming to figure out what type of camp would be a good fit for your child. Hopefully, the following descriptions will help you to match your child with the correct camp so you hear your child tell you, “Camp was so much fun today,” instead of what my poor mother dealt with daily.

Sports

Specialty sports camps usually involve one sport, such as baseball or soccer, that the child plays anywhere from 3 to 6 hours. Depending on where you live there may even be an option for tennis, golf, surfing, or sailing camp. This type of camp is typically owned by private organizations. Some towns may have town operated sports camps.

Is this a good fit for your child? If your child loves a

specific sport and would like to improve their skills, this would be a great option. It could even be a way for your child to try a sport when they might not otherwise have exposure to it.

Traditional Day

A traditional day camp is usually 6-8 hours (half-day options may be available) and offers a variety of activities such as sports, swimming, art, and music. These camps are located at YMCAs, public schools, or private settings.

Art/Musical Theater

Is this a good fit for your child? Most of the activities are

Specialty art or musical theater camps focus solely on the arts. Musical theater camps typically showcase a production such as “Beauty and the Beast,” whereas in an art camp a child would use a variety of art mediums like painting or drawing.

outside so if your child loves the outdoors and playing sports or team building activities then this would be a good type of camp for them. Since there are a variety of activities this would also be

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Spanish, some educational camps offer that as well.

Children born into all kinds of circumstances have dreams and dreams are powerful.

Sleepaway

Overnight camp is when your child lives at the camp for either a week or longer period. There are Boy/Girl Scout camps and private residential camps. These camps tend to offer options such as sailing, boating, archery, horseback riding, and other activities that may not be available close to your home.

WE DO WHAT WE DO BECAUSE CHILDREN HAVE DREAMS.

Is this a good fit for your child? An overnight camp gives your child the chance to meet other kids from different states and countries. There is also more time to do activities and foster independence compared to traditional day camps.

Travel

There are two types of travel camps. One type is when your child goes on day trips and the other type, sometimes referred to as “teen tours”, is when your child travels with a group for an extended period (usually a few weeks or a month). This type of camp is with religious or private organizations.

Is this a good fit for your child? Some of these camps travel to places by plane so it would give your child the chance to travel to a place that you might not have gone to as a family. If your child enjoys experiencing new destinations, then this would be a great fit for them.

How Can I Find These Camps?

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

These types of camps are located in public schools or private organizations. In the public school setting the drama teacher usually runs the camp, and it isn’t widely advertised but it is available for anyone to participate. Check with your local art museum and theaters for camp offerings.

Is this a good fit for your child? If your child is creative and prefers the indoors, then these types of camps would be worth looking into. It may be a good way to introduce the arts to your child since most of these camps are time-limited for one week. Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

Educational Camps

An educational camp focuses on learning a new skill or subject matter. Since it is camp, and not school, these types of camps tend to be hands-on with an emphasis on fun. These camps are located at public schools, museums, and colleges.

Is this a good fit for your child? If

your child is curious and always asking questions about how/why things work, this may be a good match for them. If a child is interested in learning a new skill such as computer programming or speaking 22

A great place to start is by referring to the Summer Camp Guide immediately following this article. Also, ask friends and family where they sent their child to camp and if it was a positive experience for them. Finally, private camps usually offer an open house during the year to allow your child to visit before signing up. Happy Camping! WP

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Ca ad Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her writing has been published in The New York Times, Parents Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, and many other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You can find her at Twitter @ CherylMaguire05.

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Ages: 6-9 years Cost: $60

per Child for 8 weeks or $30 per Child with Free/Reduced Lunch Waiver

2022

swingfield@dothan.org or jmilner@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

Camp Wave Runners

ad on Back Cover

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Day Camps/Programs Bent Oak Horsemanship Summer Riding Camp ad on page24

1210 Lucy Grade Rd., Dothan, AL 36301 Camps are for all levels! So, if you have never ridden, sign up! Or if you are an experienced showman and looking to learn more, sign up! Camps will be Led by Professional Horse Trainer and Performer Analise Granger! Dates: June 6-8 & 14-16 Ages: Ages 6 & up

(334) 791-5215 bentoakhorsemanship828@yahoo.com facebook.com/bentoakhorsemanship1

Wiregrass Park, 620 Sixth Ave., Dothan, AL 36301 We offer a mixture of sports, games, Field trips, arts & crafts, special events, theme days, camp contest, free two-week swimming lessons, and more. Volunteer opportunity for junior counselors ages 13 – 15. Free breakfast, lunch and snack are included. Camp Theme: Under the Sea Dates: June 6-July 29 Ages: 10-12 years Cost: $60 per Child for 8 weeks or $30 per Child with Free/Reduced Lunch Waiver

swingfield@dothan.org or jmilner@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

Creepy Crawly Critters ad on page 24

Landmark Park, 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 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! Dates: June 6-10; 9 a.m.-noon Ages: 4 and 5 year olds Cost: Members $90, Nonmembers $105 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Camp Choctaw

Discovery Days

Westgate Recreation Center, 501 Recreation Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 We offer a mixture of sports, games, Field trips, arts & crafts, special events, theme days, camp contest, free two-week swimming lessons, and more. All campers will enjoy customized schedules that are both age and gender specific. Volunteer opportunity for junior counselors ages 13 – 15. Free breakfast, lunch and snacks are included. Camp Theme: Under the Sea Dates: Session 1: June 6-17 (7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.) Session 2: June 20-July 1 (7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.) Session 3: July 5-15 (7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.) Session 4: July 18-29 (7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.) Ages: 6-12 years Cost: $100 per 2-week session or $50 per session with free/reduced lunch waiver

Landmark Park, 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 27-July 1; 9 a.m.-noon Ages: 4 and 5 year olds Cost: Members $90, Nonmembers $105

ad on Back Cover

swingfield@dothan.org or jmilner@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

Camp Sea Dragons ad on Back Cover

Walton Park, 1122 Walton Pk Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 We offer a mixture of sports, games, Field trips, arts & crafts, special events, theme days, camp contest, free two-week swimming lessons, and more. A wide variety of activities keeps every day fresh and exciting; each week will feature a unique set of events, adventures, and contest. Volunteer opportunity for junior counselors ages 13 – 15. Free breakfast, lunch and snacks are included. Camp Theme: Under the Sea Dates: June 6-July 29 (7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.)

ad on page 24

www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Earth Art

ad on page 24

Landmark Park, Dothan, AL 36303 Let your creative side run wild during Earth Art camp! 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. Dates: July 11-15; 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Ages: 6-8 year olds Cost: Members $105, Nonmembers $120 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Farm and Forest Fun ad on page 24

Landmark Park, 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. Dates: July 25-29; 9 a.m.-noon Ages: 4 and 5 year olds Cost: Members $90, Nonmembers $105 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

July Adventure Days ad on page 24

Landmark Park, 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 the Florida Caverns State 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: July 25-27; 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages: 9-12 year olds Cost: Members $115, Nonmembers $135 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

June Adventure Days ad on page 24

Landmark Park, 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 the Florida Caverns State 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 27-29; 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Ages: 9-12 year olds Cost: Members $115, Nonmembers $135 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Secrets of the Kitchen Garden ad on page 24

Landmark 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. Dates: June 6-10; 9 a.m.-noon Ages: 4 and 5 year olds Cost: Members $90, Nonmembers $105 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Tall Tales and Fairy Tales ad on page 24

Landmark Park, Dothan, AL 36303 Let your camper enjoy discovering humorous characters through games, outdoor activities, arts and crafts, old songs, and good ole fashion storytellin’. Campers can expect a week of truth stretchin’ lore. Camp leaders will discourage any fibbin’ after camp. Dates: July 11-15; 9 a.m.-noon Ages: 4 and 5 year olds Cost: Members $90, Nonmembers $105 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Youth Adventure Camp ad on Back Cover

Eastgate Park, 2049 Sanitary Dairy Road, Dothan, AL 36301 Loads of SUPER fun outdoor based recreation. Activities will include archery, kayaking, fishing, pickleball, geocaching, swimming, scavenger hunts, color slip n slide, mountain biking, ice cream making, and arts and crafts. A t-shirt, daily lunch and snacks are provided. Dates: Session I: June 13-17 (9 a.m.-4 p.m.) Session II: July 11-15 (9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.) Ages: 8-14 years Cost: $75 per child (334) 615-3730 ltanton@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

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Axtion Air Jump & Sports Summer Camp

3525 Ross Clark Cir., Suite 315, Dothan, AL 36303 Ages: 6-12 year Cost: $25 per day (334) 446-5175

www.axtionair.com

Girls Inc. Summer Program

Book Arts

ad on page 17

Wiregrass Museum of Art, Dothan, AL 30303 Join Aimee as we explore the various materials and techniques of Book Arts. Dates: July 25-29, 1:00-4:00 p.m. Ages: Grades 3-8 Cost: $55 for members / $65 for not-yet members

785 S. Foster St., Dothan, AL 36301 Ages: K-8th Grade Cost: $45 per week

(334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Hawk-Houston YEC Summer Enrichment

Collage College

(334) 793-2321

girlsincdothan.org

329 Chickasaw St., Dothan, AL 36302 Ages: 6-14 years Cost: $75 per week (334) 792-4618

www.hawkhoustonyec.org

Wiregrass Christian Academy

209 W. College St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Dates: June 6-July 29 Ages: 3-12 years Cost: $115 per week

(334) 393-8972 wiregrasschristianacademy.org

Fine Arts Art Explorations ad on page 17

Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave., Dothan, AL 30303 Exploring is fun. Exploring art and making a mess at the same time is SUPER fun! In Art Explorations, Aimee will introduce her campers to different artists and mediums. Campers will also get to learn about some of the pieces in WMA’s collection. This camp is designed for beginning art students but is open to all. Dates: July 11-15, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Ages: Grades K-2 Cost: $65 for members / $75 for not-yet members (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

ad on page 17

Wiregrass Museum of Art, Dothan, AL 30303 In this week-long camp, Jennifer will walk her campers through different styles of collage and introduce them to artists who work in this artform, some of whom are part of WMA’s permanent collection. Dates: July 18-22, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Ages: Grades 3-6 Cost: $70 for members / $80 for not-yet members (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Mixed Media Mayhem ad on page 17

Wiregrass Museum of Art, Dothan, AL 30303 Join Sarah on an exploration and celebration of different media and styles including watercolor, pastels, color pencils, and graphite! You’ll be a multimedia artist in no time! Dates: June 20-24, 1:00-4:00 p.m. Ages: Grades K-2 Cost: $70 for members / $80 for not-yet members (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Mixed Media Mayhem: The Next Dimension ad on page 17

Wiregrass Museum of Art, Dothan, AL 30303 Join Jennifer for an exploration of mixed media

and 3D sculpture! In this class, campers will use paint, paper, and found objects to create dynamic works of art. We will learn about some of the sculptors in the museum’s collection and work with a variety of techniques. Dates: June 13-17, 9:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Ages: Grades 3-6 Cost: $65 for members / $75 for not-yet members

Read a Little, Art a LOT!

All

(334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

ad on page 17

Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave., Dothan, AL 30303 Love reading? Love art? Then this camp is for YOU! Amelia will read a book each day and then help you create a project inspired by that story. Campers will work in several different artistic mediums and styles during this week-long camp that will help them stretch their artistic abilities and celebrate their love for reading! Dates: June 6-10, 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. Ages: Grades K-2 Cost: $55 for members / $65 for not-yet members (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

SEACT Summer Theater Camps ad on page 3

Elba High School, Dothan Cultural Arts Center, Graceville High School, Early Co Elementary School (Blakely, GA), Enterprise State Community College, Headland High School Join SEACT for a week of theatre learning about how a show comes together and your child’s important role. Dates: June & July Ages: Varies by camp Cost: $120 per week (334) 794-0400 seact@seact.com www.seact.com

Landmark Park Summer Day Camps run for one week each in June and July for ages 4-11. 334-794-3452 • www.landmarkparkdothan.com Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

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Stop Motion Animation ad on page 17

Wiregrass Museum of Art, Dothan, AL 30303 During this week students will learn how to plan, design, and photograph their own stop-motion animation short film! Dates: June 27-July 1, 1-4 p.m. Ages: Grades 3-8 Cost: $95 for members / $105 not-yet members (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

All About Art

102 S. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Cost: 1 Week - $150 | 2 Weeks - $285 | 3 Weeks $405 | 4 Weeks - $410 | 5 Weeks - $600 (334) 348-2738 www.AllAboutArtStudio.com

Cultural Arts Center

909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 (334) 699-2787 theculturalartscenter.org

Dothan School of Dance

3010 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan, AL 36301 Dates: June 6-10, June 13-17, July 11-15 Ages: Ages 3 & Up Cost: $195 per week (334) 794-5926 dothanschoolofdance.com

Green House Art Studio

300 Virginia Dr., Dothan, AL 36301 Ages: Ages 5 & Up Cost: $100 per camper (334) 701-5449 ghartstudio300@gmail.com

Overnight

Aerospace Expedition ad on page 24

Landmark Park, 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 does have an overnight stay on Thursday night and will last until the following morning. Dates: June 20-22 9 a.m.-noon; June 23, 4 p.m.- June 24, 9 a.m. Ages: 9-12 year olds Cost: Members $115, Nonmembers $135 landmarkparkdothan.com

Bent Oak Horsemanship Riding Camp ad on page 24

and pioneer cooking. Overnight stay on Thursday. Dates: July 18-20, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; July 21, 4 p.m.July 22, 9 a.m. Ages: 9-12 year olds Cost: Members $115, Nonmembers $135

(334) 791-5215 bentoakhorsemanship828@yahoo.com facebook.com/bentoakhorsemanship1

Landmark Park, Dothan, AL 36303 Dates: June 13-15, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; June 16, 4 p.m.June 17, 9 a.m. July 18-20, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; July 21, 4 p.m.-July 22, 9 a.m. Ages: 6-8 year olds Cost: Members $105, Nonmembers $120 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, crafts and more. Overnight stay on Thursday.

Big Wide Wilderness ad on page 24

Landmark Park, Dothan, AL 36303 Campers can expect to learn everything from building their own campfire to archery and many other primitive camping skills. With trained instructors, campers can learn archery, horsemanship,

www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Ecology Camp ad on page 24

www.landmarkparkdothan.com

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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 www.campvictoryal.org

Connect Camps ad on page 13

Hillcrest Baptist Church, 500 Alberta St., Enterprise, AL 36330 A one-week, day camp for K-6th graders, filled with non-stop fun, engaging activities, daily faithbased lessons, and the chance to make lasting friendships. Your campers are sure to have an unbelievable week that they’ll never forget! Dates: July 25-29 Ages: K-6th Grade Cost: $219 (334) 347-2516 children@hbce.org www.hbce.org

Special Needs Therapeutic Recreation Summer Camp ad on Back Cover

Doug Tew Recreation Center, Dothan, AL 36301 A summer camp for intellectually challenged citizens 15 years and older and independent will all self-help skills. Campers will enjoy games, socializing, cooking, life skills, music, field trips, and other fun activities. Dates: June 20–July 28 (Camp will not be held on Fridays or the week of July 4-7) Ages: Age 15 & Up Cost: $100 per child (334) 615.3720 alowe@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.com

Beacon of Hope ABA Summer Program 181 W. Reynolds St., Ozark, AL 36360 For individuals with Autism. (334) 477-4686

www.ababeaconofhope.com

Camp Seale Harris (for Diabetic Children)

Eastgate Park, Dothan, AL 36312 Dates: June 20-24 Ages: 5-15 years Cost: $175 (205) 402-0415 campsealeharris.org

Sports Camps and Clinics United Gymstars and Cheer ad on page 25

Myths and Legends ad on page 24

Landmark Park, Dothan, AL 36303 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! Overnight stay on Thursday night. Dates: June 13-15, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.; June 16, 4 p.m.-June 17, 9 a.m. Ages: 9-12 year olds Cost: Members $115, Nonmembers $135 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Pioneer Farm ad on page 24

Landmark Park, Dothan, AL 36303 Travel back in time and discover what your life might have been like if you lived 100 years ago. s. Overnight stay on Thursday night. Dates: June 20-22 9 a.m.-noon; June 23, 4 p.m.-June 24, 9 a.m. Ages: 6-8 year olds Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

Cost: Members $105, Nonmembers $120 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 11

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 $2175 / Long-Term $3990 (256) 634-4043 www.riverviewcamp.net

210 Graceland Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Campers will enjoy relays, fitness activities, organized games, trampoline, open gym time, outside water play, arts and crafts, movie time, and much more! Each camp week will introduce campers to different members of our community who are working hard to make a difference in the world around us. Space is limited. Dates: June 8-July 31, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 5-12 years Cost: $150 per week (334) 284-2244 www.unitedgymstarsandcheer.com

Dothan International Soccer Camps

Dates: Juy 25-29 Ages: 3-14 Years Cost: Tiny

Tykes: $114, Half Day: $148, Full Day: $190

www.challengersports.com

Fort Rucker International Soccer Camps

Dates: May 31-June 3 Ages: 3-14 Years Cost:

Tiny Tykes: $99, Half Day: $165, Full Day: $235

Religious

(678) 540-1589 www.challengersports.com

Ozark Community Tennis Free Clinic

Camp Victory

Dates: Tennis: June 17, 6:00-8:00 p.m.

Pickleball: June 18, 10:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.

ad on page 17

363 Victory Circle, Samson, AL 36477 A year-round Christian Camp. Activities include

Ages: Ages 3 & Up Cost: Free (334) 232-9651 ozarkcommunitytennis.com WP

www.wiregrassparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Saturday April 9

Easter at the Farmers Market 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Enterprise Farmers Market, 525 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 This year’s event will feature all the wonderful produce and arts and crafts vendors, games, hat decorating and our Eggstra-Special, Deviled Egg Contest! The Easter Bunny is also rumored to be making an appearance. Easter Egg Hunt & Touch-a-Truck ($5 per child) 9:00 a.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA, 39823 Join us in the day use area for our annual Easter egg hunt. Over 4,000 eggs will be hidden. Children can climb on emergency response vehicles, enjoy a boat ride and visit with the Easter bunny. The egg hunt starts at promptly 1 p.m. EST so arrive EARLY! Concessions will be sold. Special Needs Easter Egg Hunt 9:00 a.m. 150 E. Dogwood Dr. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Special Needs Easter Egg Hunt open to all individuals! Hunt starts at 9:00 a.m. sharp! We will also have the Sensory Easter Bunny and other fun activities! Children’s Fest 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Festival Fields, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 The EASTER BUNNY is coming to Fort Rucker! Bring out your kids, friends, and family to our annual Children’s Fest for a day filled with fun, egg hunts, karaoke, inflatables, FREE ICECREAM, & MORE! Break out your favorite super hero costume for this years children’s fest and support military children standing strong and proud! (334) 255-2260 Spring Festival at the Monument 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Downtown, Enterprise, AL, 36330 Featuring the vendor market, music, Easter hat parade/contest, kids zone, food stations, and more! Visual/Tactile Space: Deaf Youth Bowling 11:45 a.m. - 1:45 p.m., Patricia Lanes, 2208 Ross Clark Cir. Dothan, AL, 36301 Deaf/Hard of Hearing middle & high school students can attend or more information contact Cantu.Donna@AIDB.org. Adult Easter Egg Hunt (Tickets $20) 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Westgate Tennis Center, 810 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Social hour will take place under the second story pavilion where we’ll have music and a cash bar. Following the social hour we’ll play super fun games. “The Hunt” begins at 7pm! We’ll be hunting plastic eggs that will be slap full of awesome prizes. Proceeds benefit The Dothan Police Foundation.

Tuesday April 12

Easter Egg Hunt @ Main 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Weather permitting. This hunt is for kids ages 0-8, please. All you’ll need to bring is a basket, we’ll supply the fun. www.dhcls.org

Friday April 15

The Summer May-Haw Beach Bash (Tickets $20) 7:00 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 166 Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 It’s time to show off those farmer tans and pull out your cut-off jeans! Featuring your favorite May-Haw characters, some of the best summer tunes, and enough laughs to knock off your boots and send you running for your beach chair. (229) 758-5450 swampgravy.com

Saturday April 16

39th National Mayhaw Fesival 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Downtown Square, Colquitt, GA Festival is kicked off with it’s National Mayhaw Parade at 10am through Downtown Colquitt. Come enjoy local food vendors, crafts and entertainment from 10am to 4pm.

Mad Hatter Tea Party 10:00 a.m. Ozark Amphitheater, Ozark, AL, 36360 Fundraiser for the Flowers Center for the Performing Arts. RSVP by April 11 to jenny.lamberth@gmail.com.

butterfly to release, all activities, and admission to Landmark Park. Parents not wishing to release a butterfly are admitted free. (334) 548-5959 www.chrysalishomeforgirls.org

Downtown Ozark Easter Egg Hunt 2:00 p.m. Downtown, Ozark, AL, 36360 Easter Egg Hunt. Games. Music. Bunny Photos.

Aladdin Jr. 2:00 p.m. - 3:30 p.m., 201 W. College St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Join us in recreating this classic story with some talented local youth and children from our area.

Level Plains Police Dept. Easter Egg Hunt 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., 47 Z St. Daleville, AL, 36362 The Summer May-Haw Beach Bash (Tickets $20) 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Details on April 15.

Tuesday April 19

Harlem Globetrotters 7:00 p.m. Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. (334) 615-3175 www.dothanciviccenter.org

Thursday April 21

Miss Alabama Voice for Autism Wallace Community College, 1141 Wallace Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 April 21-24. voiceforautismpageantprogram.com Aladdin Jr. 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., 201 W. College St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Join us in recreating this classic story with some talented local youth and children from our area. The Summer May-Haw Beach Bash (Tickets $20) 7:00 p.m. Details on May 15.

Saturday April 23

Chalk Walk Art Competition 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 theculturalartscenter.org

Superhero 5K to Prevent Child Abuse 3:00 p.m. Westgate Tennis Center, 801 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Let’s all join together and be a community of Superheros for children! We are bringing back the Family Fun Kid’s Area this year- so look for bouncy houses, face painting, lots of games, laughter, and fun! 334-671-1966 www.exchangecap.org

Tuesday April 26-April 30

Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dream Coat (Tickets $25) 7:00 p.m. Dothan Opera House, 118 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 A reimagining of the Biblical story of Joseph, his father Jacob, eleven brothers, and the coat of many colors. Told entirely through song with the help of a Narrator, the musical follows preferred son Joseph whose ability to interpret dreams puts him in front of the Pharaoh. www.seact.com

Friday April 29

Aladdin Jr. 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., 201 W. College St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Join us in recreating this classic story with some talented local youth and children from our area. Spring Astronomy Night 6:00 p.m. Landmark Park, Dothan, AL, 36303

2nd Annual Charity Angel House Ride 9:00 a.m. Wiregrass Angel House, 105 N. Bell St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Benefiting the Wiregrass Area Angel House. 70 miles for 700+ victims of violent crimes in the Wiregrass Area. Public is welcome. We’ll have food vendors and raffles for some great prizes.

Saturday April 30

Family Fit Fest 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Westgate Park by Water World, Dothan, AL, 36303 Go station to station exercising and learning wellness tips. (334) 793-5433 wiregrasshope.com

Piney Woods Art Festival (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Enterprise State Community College, Enterprise, AL, 36330 Piney Woods features original art and crafts by approximately 100 artists, a children’s fun center, food and entertainment. www.coffeecountyartsalliance.com

Loop Music & Art Festival 10:00 a.m. Foster Street Park, Dothan, AL, 36303 Local fine artists and student artists will be selling their work in Porter Park, and 5 music acts will take the stage in Wadlington Park. The Summer May-Haw Beach Bash (Tickets $20) 2 pm and 6 pm. Details April 22. Aladdin Jr. 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., 201 W. College St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Join us in recreating this classic story with some talented local youth and children from our area. Celebration of Hope 6:00 p.m. Ozark Amphitheater, Ozark, AL, 36360 Celebrate Cancer Survivors. Remember Loved Ones Lost. We will have music, games, food, and fun for the entire family. Luminary Service, Lighting of the Torches, and Hope Takes Flight butterfly release. (334) 670-8174 www.relayforlife.org/daleal

Walk a Mile in Her Shoes (Tickets $40) 8:30 a.m. North Foster St. Dothan, AL, 36301 The House of Ruth Walk A Mile in Her Shoes is an annual fundraiser to raise dollars for victims of domestic violence and sexual assault

Wiregrass Blues Fest (General Admission $20) 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Dale Co. Ag Plex, Highway 123 Ozark, AL, 36360 Performances by Shaun Murphy, Johnny Rawls, Crystal Shawanda, Rodney Justo, Project Preservation Band feat. Lil’ Jimmy Reed, Peggy Jenkins, & Marla Drake, and Carroll High Jazz Band! wiregrassbluessociety.org

Find More Local Events at WiregrassParents.com!

Sunday April 24

5th Annual Butterfly Fling ($10) 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Butterflies will be released at 3:30 p.m. The $10 admission fee includes a live

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

EH: I chose to become a foster parent because I love children, but, more importantly, by being a foster parent I am able to directly help children who face issues such as homelessness, substance abuse, domestic violence, and mental health disorders. My assistance gives birth parents the chance to receive assistance to overcome the problems that led to the removal of their children. WP: Blending families can be difficult. Talk to me a little about some of the challenges you’ve faced as a foster mom and how you overcame them.

Erica M. Harris

EH: Before I made the decision to become a foster parent, I talked with my daughter to get her thoughts. She was very receptive to the idea and redecorated her bedroom to accommodate additional children. My family is a major support system. I am so thankful to have wonderful family and friends, including my daughter’s paternal grandparents. Everyone is on board and jumps at any opportunity to lend a helping hand. I am a foster parent to a caucasian child. My family and I love her just as much as we love my own biological child. Since having her, I had to develop a thick skin because I have had many racially-based comments and remarks made in public. So many people do not understand foster parents are there to assist case managers with reunifying families. I received my current placement when she was three days old. It would hurt me to see her leave, but I am praying for her mother to successfully complete her plan and be reunified with her beautiful daughter.

WP: How long have you been a social worker? What made you want to enter this career? EH: I have been in the social work field for six years. I entered the field because I recognize the need for more social workers in my small community. Social work is a profession where we make a difference not only in the population we serve but in the community and the world as a whole. We are trained to see the entire person, and the situations affecting them, rather than just one component.

WP: What advice would you give to anyone considering becoming a foster parent? EH: Go for it! There is a great need for foster parents in every state. It is a heartbreaking, yet rewarding, act of service. It is the policy of the state to keep children in the county of residence, but if there are not any foster homes available in that county, the children are sent to neighboring counties. This can be further traumatizing to children.

WP: Do you find it can be difficult to separate yourself from the situations you see as a social worker? EH: I find it extremely hard to turn off being a social worker. I see and hear so much at work that it is difficult to separate the two. I hate being the “helicopter mom” but I cannot forget some of the things I see and hear in the run of a day.

WP: When it comes to parenting, there’s a lot of talk about ‘the village.’ Is there anyone who has helped you throughout your journey through motherhood that you would like to give a shoutout to?

WP: How do you make sure you’re not pouring from an empty cup in your work and home life?

EH: I am extremely thankful for my wonderful village. My siblings, friends, extended family, coworkers, and colleagues have all helped in some form. Had it not been for them, I would not be as successful at parenting. A key player was my grandmother, Norma. She passed away in October, but I am thankful for the many lessons she instilled in me as a child and find comfort in being able to pass them down to all the children who enter my home. Kimberly Fleming (Millie’s paternal grandmother) and Sarapehnia Igles (Millie’s paternal great aunt) are my superheroes. I can never pay them enough for all that they do for any child in my care. My father is another huge supporter. He farms full time and is always busy on the farm, but he proudly stops what he is doing to ensure his “sweet babies” (the name he uses for Millie and Elizabeth) are well-taken care of.

EH: To ensure I am not pouring from an empty cup, I practice self-care. I enjoy reading, planting flowers, and taking vacations. WP: You’re working with children in the community where you grew up. How does it feel to be giving back where you were raised? EH: Working in the area I grew up in feels great. Within minutes of meeting with clients, we identify a connection of some sort. My grandmother, Norma Harris-Great, was an educator within the Early County School System and was a huge pillar in the community. My father, Eric Harris, is a retired educator and has taught many students in his 30 years. My grandmother and father left a lasting impression on each of the students and their families, which has helped make clients feel comfortable. WP: In addition to having a daughter of your own, you’re also a foster parent. What made you want to bring additional children into your home? Wiregrass Parents I April 2022

Erica M. Harris is a social worker and forensic interviewer for the Pataula Center for Children. She has one daughter, Millie Henderson (8), and one foster daughter, Elizabeth (10 months).

www.wiregrassparents.com

INTO

April 1st - June 30th

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1-888-660-2738

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