Wiregrass Parents April 2019 by KeepSharing

Using a lead-safe certified renovation contractor is the law. Home repairs that create even a small amount of lead dust are enough to poison your child and put your family at risk. Make sure you renovate right with a contractor that is Lead-Safe Certified.

For more information, visit alabamapublichealth.gov/lead or call 1-800-819-7544

April2019 26

Volume 1 Number 8

Columns 2

From the Publisher Ashton Wright

More Energy for Mama

Simple and inexpensive (or free) ways to up your daily beat.

Common Sense Media How girls are seeking approval online and what a parent can do.

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LMSW

Kids Health Watch by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

23 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Choosing a Daycare Advice for this all important decision of finding a safe, quality center for your child.

2019 Child Care Guide Our comprehensive listing of daycares, preschools, and MMO programs.

Departments 9

Teacher of the Month

On The Cover Maggie Sanford is the seven-monthold daughter of Jessica and Alex Sanford. Maggie can sit up on her own and is really close to crawling. She loves her puppies, jumping like a ballerina in her bouncer, and dancing. Her favorite food is sweet potatoes, but she also likes carrots, apples, and pears.

School Bits 37

Movie Reviews 38

Family Calendar 44

Mom to Mom www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

FromThePublisher The Area’s Go-To Resource for Families

Four years ago I was walking out my back door for an OB/GYN appointment when my water broke. It was nearly a month before my due date, and I remember feeling excited and terrified all at the same time. Our birth story isn’t an easy one. After 24 hours of no progress, I had an emergency C-section and then developed preeclampsia. We were in the hospital for a week. It was honestly one of the scariest times of my life. Then came the time to find a daycare. We had several requirements. Among them: the facility had to stay open late enough to accommodate my work schedule at the time, there had to be a low teacher-student ratio, and there had to be accountability. We visited at least a dozen places, all recommended by friends and coworkers, before we found our perfect match, and that barely scratched the surface of the number of daycares out there. Finding the right people to look after your child can be stressful, but it doesn’t have to be. This month, we’ve put together a Child Care Directory listing all of the daycares in the Wiregrass area. Our feature article, Choosing A Quality Daycare, will hopefully help take some of the uncertainty out of the process for you. Watching Alexis grow and develop has been so rewarding, but I’d be lying if I said it was always easy. Although I try to be proactive about my mental health, there are some days (or weeks) that I’m so tired I can barely function. This month’s other feature article, More Energy for Mama! Simple Ways To Up Your Beat, is full of great advice for recharging. I’m lucky to have a network of people around me who know when I need a break, sometimes even before I do. Whether it’s staying in bed an extra hour on the weekends, taking a long bubble bath after dinner, or spending a few days away, I always return feeling refreshed and more like myself. April is a great month in the Wiregrass. There are so many reasons to get out of the house. Not only are we in that little sweet spot of not-too-hot and not-too-cold temperatures, but what I like to call ‘spring festival season’ is well underway. This month’s calendar is full of Easter egg hunts, festivals, shows and more. One thing you won’t find in the magazine’s calendar, but is the most important item on mine, is Alexis’s fourth birthday. We’re celebrating with family and some of her friends from school with a princess party at a local playground. The last four years has passed so quickly. I’ve watched my baby turn into a little girl who loves eating Mexican food, has a vivid imagination, and can’t get her fill of being outside. She’ll be starting PreK this fall and be graduating high school before I know it. So while I’m making the most of my time with my little family, I hope you’ll find the time to do the same this Spring and every season after.

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 Kimberly Blaker Jacob Edwards, MD Christina Katz Sonia Martin, LMSW Dave Ramsey Cover Photography Jessica Sanford www.jsanfordart.com

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

Visit us at www.wiregrassparents.com

Ashton

ashton@wiregrassparents.com

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

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 2018 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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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LMSW

Childish vs. Defiant Behaviors spray-painted smiley face along the path Frustrated? Aggravated? Feeling from the car to my home. defeated in this thing we call parenting? As I opened the door to my home brimAllow me take you way, way, way back ming with boys, still stunned - I managed to the year1990 and the words of Vanilla to mutter that someone had spray painted Ice – Stop, Collaborate and Listen. Stop – the carport. Without missing a beat one of take a beat, take a minute and use some my twin sons excitedly said, “I discernment to understand know! Isn’t it great! Now everyif the behavior in front of you day when you come home you is A.) A childish behavior. or have a smile waiting for you!” B.) A defiant behavior. This “Wait….wha? You did that?” I is such a fundamental step said hesitantly. “Yep!” he said, that we keep hurdling past at full of pride. breakneck speed in the name Ummmmm. Ok. I am clearly of immediately implementing winning at parenting. After all, some type of consequence as they were growing up, I fully or punishment, in an effort to covered the whole, “Don’t get correct our children. We have into a car with a stranger even if to first stop and understand they offer you a puppy or candy, what is in front of us, and The actual smiley face don’t cross the street without that should then guide our looking, and always open the door for a response. lady and offer her your seat,” but clearly I I had the…ahem… “privilege” of expeFORGOT TO MENTION NOT TO SPRAY riencing a moment that perfectly illustrates PAINT HAPPY FACES ON CONCRETE. this concept just last week. As I was pulling My point in telling you that story is to into my driveway after a long day’s work, I ask you this – Childish behavior or Defiant was both stunned and horrified to discover behavior? Which would you say it was? Is that someone had spray painted a smiley he old enough to know not to do that? Theoface at the entrance to my carport. Furtherretically. But where was his heart? What was more, as I exited my vehicle, still very much his intent? Was that action based out of a in a state of disbelief, I noticed yet another

“Forget you, I am going to tag your property” type attitude? No. His heart was for me. His heart was to bring me joy. His intent was to put a smile on my face everyday when I arrived home. So that’s where I begin. I shook my head, gave him a hug, thanked him for the sentiment. Then, in the words of Mr. Ice, we collaborated and listened…to some You Tube videos about how to remove spray paint. He learned. I loved. And our relationship remained connected. Had his heart been oriented toward defiance or overt disrespect, I likely would have then implemented a more punitive approach, but I took that second to assess the intent and that makes all the difference. So thanks Ice, Ice, Baby. We owe you one. Here’s a smiley face for you.

Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior, and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to help mitigate negative behaviors. She travels the state speaking at various conferences on behavior and parenting and is a therapist for Kids To Love Foundation. Sonia is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of whom were internationally adopted, and is also a foster parent.

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Easter Sunrise Service

Sunday, April 21 * 6 a.m. Landmark Park in Dothan Dothan Ministerial Union will host the 33rd Annual Easter Sunrise Service on April 21 at Landmark Park. The service will begin at 6 a.m. at the gazebo. This is an interdenominational service and is open to everyone. Benches are available but please bring lawn chairs to ensure adequate seating. In the event of rain, the service will be held in the Headland Presbyterian Church located adjacent to the gazebo. Admission to the service is free. The park will close immediately after the service and re-open at noon for our regular Sunday hours. For more info, visit www. landmarkparkdothan.com.

Easter Egg Hunt

Tuesday, April 16 * 11-11:30 a.m. Dothan-Houston Co. Library Main Branch 445 N. Main St., Dothan Cost: Free For more info, visit www.dhcls.org or call (334) 793-9767 Join us for our annual Easter Egg Hunt. We will have tons of eggs—you just bring your basket. This year we will have two age groups: one egg hunt for toddlers (up to age 3) and an egg hunt for children ages 4-8. Please arrive early. Once all eggs have been found, the hunt will be over. Registration is not required, but space limited.

Superhero 5K Run/Walk to Prevent Child Abuse

Saturday, April 27 * 8-11 a.m. Westgate Trail, 501 Recreation Rd., Dothan Before April 5: 5K costs $25 w/ shirt, $20 w/o shirt; Fun Run costs $15 w/ shirt, $10 w/o shirt After April 5: 5K costs $25; Fun Run $15 For more info, visit www.exchangecap.org or call (334) 671-1966. Games! Inflatables! Prizes! Costume contest! Every child needs a hero, but abused children need a SUPERHERO! Dress up as your favorite superhero as we race to raise awareness of child abuse and services available for victims in our community. Bring your four-legged friend for a special pet costume contest! New this year: support the mission of the Exchange Center without participating in the 5K! You can purchase your run shirt for $20 by selecting “sleep-in” on the registration form. By supporting this fundraiser, you are helping the Exchange Center’s mission to stop child abuse and family violence through counseling, in-home support, and prevention education services. All donations support The Exchange Center’s free counseling and support services provided to victims of abuse across the Wiregrass area.

SEACT’S Mama Won’t Fly

April 30-May 4 * 7 p.m. nightly Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St., Dothan Cost: Adults $19; Seniors $17 For tickets or more info, visit www.seact.com or call (334) 794-0400. Southeast Alabama Community Theatre and Sunset Memorial Park present an outrageously hilarious race against the clock that begins when Savannah Sprunt Fairchild Honeycutt agrees to get her feisty mother all the way from Alabama to California in time for her brother’s wedding. Savannah’s problem: Mama won’t fly. With only four days to make it to the ceremony, this determined daughter has no choice but to drive cross-country with her equally willful mother. Every conceivable – and inconceivable – mishap that can occur does with this delightfully wacky family. Appropriate for general audiences. Included with season tickets. Directed by J.E. Saliba. 5

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Dothan Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris

Sunday, April 7 * 1-5 p.m. * Westgate Park, Dothan The Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris is a FREE family-friendly walk/run raising awareness of diabetes and connecting the diabetes community. It provides an opportunity to make it possible for kids to attend Camp Seale Harris—Alabama’s only diabetes camp. Join us at the Kiwanis Shelter at Westgate Park (located at the corner of Deerpath Road and Whatley Drive) for music, free healthy snacks, diabetes awareness info, team awards and prizes, and a 5K or 1 mile walk/run to support kids with diabetes! Donate now or create a fundraising page for the Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris and invite friends, family and coworkers to join your effort by donating to your walk page. To create a fundraising page, visit https://secure.qgiv.com/event/ dothwalkforcsh/. All tax-deductible donations are considered undesignated by the donor to support Camp Seale Harris. The Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris is your best opportunity to contribute to Alabama’s leading organization directly serving children with diabetes.

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

Touch a Truck

Saturday, May 4 * 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Landmark Park in Dothan Cost: Adults $7; Kids $5; www.landmarkparkdothan.com A truly unique event that offers children a hands-on opportunity to explore a variety of heavy equipment, trucks and machinery while also meeting the people who build, protect and serve our community. Parent supervision is required and cameras are highly recommended! For kids who might be frightened by loud noises, a “quiet hour” will take place from 10-11 a.m. During that time, there will be no honking horns or other loud noises. Concessions will be available at the event, and the Martin Drugstore will be open selling ice cream, milkshakes and other treats. You can also bring a picnic to the park and enjoy your lunch at one of our picnic tables.

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Piney Woods Arts & Crafts Festival

April 13 @ 9 a.m.-5 p.m., April 14 @ 12-4 p.m. Enterprise State Community College 600 Plaza Dr., Enterprise Cost: Free The 45th annual Piney Woods Arts Festival takes place April 13 & 14, on the running track of Enterprise State Community College. One of the oldest juried arts and crafts shows in the area, Piney Woods features original art and crafts by approximately 100 artists, a childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fun center, food and entertainment, a student art display and a Civil War Living Display. The Weevil City Cruisers Car and Truck Show is Saturday only across campus from the arts festival. On Friday, April 12, the Piney Woods Arts Festival is partnering with 321 Films, which will present the Mountain Tales Film Festival, the first-ever film festival in Coffee County. For more info, visit www.coffeecountyartsalliance.com.

Egg Quest

Sunday, April 14 * 2-4 p.m. Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, 5130 Headland Ave., Dothan DABG is pleased to announce a NEW fun family activity in which visitors will utilize clues on an entry form/garden map to identify colorful wooden eggs hidden in the individual gardens within DABG. Designs on the eggs were created by area school students as well as area artists. The goal is to identify all the eggs on the entry form and return it, making the children eligible for Easter basket drawings. Eggs will be placed in the gardens a month prior to Easter and participants can visit any time prior to Sunday afternoon, April 14 (the Sunday before Easter), to find the eggs and become eligible. In addition to the drawings, other activities are planned for that afternoon. There is no fee for participation but donations are appreciated. Sponsorship of an egg is $200 and will include your name or the name of your business along with the school or organization who painted it. This activity will replace our traditional spring garden tour this year due to Hurricane Michael. For more info, visit www.dabg.com or call (334) 793-3224.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Sugar Highs and Lows Did you know your child’s body runs off sugar? It’s a sugar called glucose, not the type of sugar we add to coffee. Your child’s body breaks down the food he eats and glucose enters his bloodstream where it is taken into his cells to be used for energy. Moving glucose out of the bloodstream and into his cells is done by insulin, a substance produced by the pancreas. We all need glucose to live and function, and like a 5-year-old with a bag full of candy, too much sugar can be bad. High blood sugar, hyperglycemia, is one of the defining factors of diabetes. There are two major forms of diabetes, Type 1 and Type 2. While both types are based on how insulin relates to the body, Type 2 diabetes is usually referred to as adult onset diabetes. The increasing obesity rate among kids and teens, has led to Type 2 diabetes becoming more prevalent among children. Type 1 diabetes is often referred to as juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes with the largest majority of patients diagnosed during childhood. While the exact cause is

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

unknown, it results from either the absence (or destruction) of cells in the pancreas that produce insulin. When the body does not produce insulin, daily injections of insulin are required to maintain normal blood glucose levels. Although signs and symptoms of diabetes may be subtle, classic symptoms include a significant increase in urination, significant increase in thirst, and, weight loss. One of the first signs may be new bedwetting in a child who was previously dry or increased daytime accidents. Often, the first sign is a serious and sometimes life-threatening state called diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA). Due to a lack of insulin, DKA occurs when blood sugars levels are very high and the body produces ketones. Ketones are produced when the body has to break down fat for energy. High levels can cause electrolyte imbalances, vomiting, and confusion that can require medical attention. Treatment of diabetes for children and teens includes close follow-up with an endocrinologist, maintaining good blood glucose control,

frequent blood sugar checks, adopting a healthy diet, monitoring carbohydrate intake, and regular exercise. Type 1 diabetics will also take insulin. The goal of treatment is to help a diabetic child live a long, healthy, and productive life. A chronic illness like diabetes can be emotionally and socially difficult for children and teens. Family members and friends can be supportive by also adopting a healthy lifestyle. Also, consider getting your child or teen involved in a diabetic camp, like Camp Seale Harris. If you are concerned about diabetes in your child, discuss it with your child’s pediatrician. For more information on Camp Seale Harris, go to www.campsealeharris.com. Jacob Edwards, MD, FAAP was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2012, he completed a three-year Pediatric Residency program at Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC. After practicing in Enterprise then Tuscaloosa, Dr. Edwards made his way back to Enterprise to join Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network in May 2017. He practices primarily at Enterprise Pediatric Clinic. Dr. Edwards enjoys CrossFit, traveling, the beach, and spending time with his dog, CoCo.

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Caroline Carnell Wicksburg High School

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“Teachers are the unsung heroes. They do the the job that so many are not cut out for and quite frequently fill a void in so many kids’ lives.” Desiree Kelly is talking about Wicksburg Elementary School second grade teacher, Caroline Carnell. Kelly, along with Marie Ann Garvin and Melissa Earhart, nominated Mrs. Carnell for Wiregrass Parents’ Teacher of the Month. “She absolutely deserves this,” Kelly says. Carnell has been teaching 26 years and plans to teach for at least another four. “At the end of the twenty-fifth year I just didn’t feel like I was finished. I still really enjoy the children.” Garven describes Mrs. Carnell as a devoted teacher who doesn’t let a student get left behind. “If a child is having problems learning something she makes sure with everything she has to teach that child before moving on to the next lesson.” Earhart says Carnell’s devotion is evident in her teaching approach for a non-English speaking student in her class. “She gets the class together and they try to read and work in his language and then English to get him comfortable with both languages. She does this every single day!” Carnell says the feeling she gets when one of her students ‘gets it’ for the first time is reward-

ing. So too is helping children, “being there for them when they have a need. Sometimes a hug or some reassuring words is all a child needs to turn their day around.” Kelly says her son, Kamerin, is blessed to have Mrs. Carnell as his teacher. “She goes out of her way to take care of her kids. When one has something going on or a special need, she will walk outside with the child and let them call Mom to make them feel better. Her communication with parents is top notch.” Earhart’s son, Bryson, was worried about second grade, but she says Carnell “has built him up so much, gotten him out of his shyness, and he’s doing amazing.” Carnell has taught two of Garvin’s children. “They love her dearly. She just doesn’t have a class, but 24 students that she calls her kids.” “Students have taught me that feeling accepted and loved in the classroom comes first,” Carnell says. “Curriculum is a definite second.”

Caroline Carnell received her Masters in Elementary Education from Troy University-Dothan. She and her husband, Robert, have three daughters: Miranda, Candace and Savannah, and three grandchildren: Eva Kate, Jennings and Sullivan.

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Autauga County Schools

Honeysuckle Leader in Me Students Host Luncheon

In March, a group of Honeysuckle Middle 6th-grade students in the class called “The Leader in Me” held a luncheon for their chosen teachers and family members. The class is led by retired teachers Jane Belsches, Cindy Hollis and Lisa Johnston. They meet once a week for six to eight weeks. Each week they talk to the girls about things like kindness, manners, etiquette and what it means to be a leader.

Dothan City Schools Receive Honors

From State School Board District 2, Beverlye Magnet School, Montana Street Magnet School and Selma Street Elementary School of Dothan City Schools were recognized as CLAS Schools of Distinction with Beverlye Magnet School named as the 2018 CLAS Banner School.

Send Your School News each month to: schoolnews@ wiregrassparents.com.

Beverlye Magnet Robotics Teams Compete in Auburn

Beverlye Magnet School had two robotics teams compete in the State Vex IQ Robotics Tournament in Auburn March 1-3. BMS Team 1 secured their spot at the state competition after receiving the Excellence Award in October at “Spooky Vex on the Plains.” In January, BMS Team 2 won the Teamwork Champion Award and STEM Research Project Award at “Vex IQ on the Plains,” securing their spot at the state competition as well. BMS Team 1 received the Excellence Award at the same tournament as well as the Robot Skills Champion Award, making Beverlye Magnet School the recipient of four of the six awards given at the tournament. Additionally, BMS Team 1 was invited to attend the U.S. Southeast Regional Robotics Tournament in Mississippi.

Montana Magnet Recognizes Bus Drivers

Dothan Technology Center Gets New Laser Engraver

Montana Magnet students presented bus drivers with a basket of cheer for bus driver appreciation week! We are so thankful for those that drive our students safely to and from school.

Pre-Engineering’s Laser Engraver is operational! Senior Ralston Wylly has done an excellent job setting the system up, working in CorelDRAW and running the first test pieces. Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

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HMS 8th-Graders Explore Future Careers

Honeysuckle Middle School eighth-grade students had a great opportunity to explore exciting career paths at this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Worlds of Work (WOW) event. This event allowed students to be present for real-world simulations of available career options. Students learned how to begin building a meaningful career at the beginning of high school.

Ashford Softball Honors Former Yellow Jacket

At the opening game for Ashford High School softball, Mitzi McLendon Hasty was honored for her induction into the Troy University Hall of Fame. Her commemorative sign and autograph will hang on the press box.

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Houston Academy Students Win Art Awards

Autauga County Schools

Houston Academy students Abe Haskins (3rd grade) and Emma Morales (10th grade) were honored recently at the Dothan City Commissioner’s meeting. Haskins won the Wiregrass Museum of Art – Elementary Award and Morales won the City of Dothan Award.

Beverlye Magnet School Model UN Teams Bring Home 12 Awards

Please email news and ohotos to: schoolnews @wiregrassparents.com!

Beverlye Magnet School Model United Nations competed at Troy University, where its four teams/countries did excellent work to bring home 12 awards. Pakistan earned: 1st place as Outstanding Team/Country; 1st place for Native Dress in their bloc of nations; 1st place for Native Dress for ALL countries; 4th place Outstanding Girl Delegate for Emily Woodham; and 3rd place for Outstanding Resolution. Djibouti earned: 4th place for Native Dress in their bloc of nations and 4th place for Outstanding Boy Delegate for Gavin Wagner. Venezuela earned: 2nd place in Native Dress in their bloc of nations and 3rd place for Outstanding Team/Country. North Korea earned: 2nd place in Native Dress for their bloc of nations; 4th place in Native Dress for ALL countries; and 4th place for Outstanding Resolution.

Ashford High School Student Picked for D.C. Youth Tour

Ashford High School junior Claire Aplin was selected as one of two representatives of Wiregrass Electric’s Youth Tour to Washington, D.C. Aplin is an excellent student and athlete.

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

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Emmanuel Christian 2nd-Graders Earn Donuts for Compliments

Mrs. Cordesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 2nd-grade class at Emmanuel Christian Academy filled their compliment cups, and they chose a donut party as their reward. Congratulations for getting those compliments from other teachers, staff and parents for your good behavior!

Houston Academy Student Crowned Miss Houston County

Congratulations to our 2019 Houston County Queens! Miss Houston County is Addison Reynolds, Teen Miss Natalie Carlson, Junior Miss Brinley Harrell, Young Junior Miss Jessi Danford, Little Miss Maggie Wells and Future Little Miss Maebry Marler.

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Autauga County Schools

Northside Methodist Dual Enrollment Students Join Honor Society

Five Northside Methodist Academy dual enrollment students were inducted into Sigma Kappa Delta, an English Honor Society, at Wallace Community College. The NMA family is so proud of Sam Stinson, Jennifer Bradley, Ben Bradley, Emma Walton (not pictured) and Emily Peters (not pictured).

Beverlye Magnet Robotics Teams Advance to Kentucky Championship

Both Beverlye Magnet School Robotics Teams displayed an excellent performance at the Alabama State Robotics Tournament in Auburn. Both teams were very successful and are both advancing to the World Robotics Championship in Louisville, Kentucky. Awards include: Team 1 comprised of Nadia Batts, Chase King, Ethan Peel, Jayden McCory, Braxton DeLoney and Cooper Smith: STEM Research Project Winner; Robot Skills Champion - 2nd Place (Tied for first, but lost in tiebreaker); Teamwork Champion Winner - 1st Place; and Excellence Award Winner (Overall State Champions). BMS 1 is currently ranked 54th in the world with a score of 42 on Robot Skills. Team 1 will attend the Invitational U.S. Southeast Regional Robotics Tournament in Mississippi. Team 2 comprised of Briana Milton, Price Barkett, Owen Stephens, Davis Kirkland, Carter Whitehurst and Logan McNiel: Design Award Winner (World Qualifier) and Robot Skills - 3rd Place. Team 2 is currently ranked 136th in the world with a score of 38 in Robot Skills.

Providence Christian Azalea Belles

Providence Christian Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Azalea Belles had a wonderful time March 17 on the Azalea Dogwood Trail. From left are: Maggie Nemish, Katie Griffin, Elizabeth Grace Woodall and Hannah Stewart.

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

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Emmanuel Christian First-Graders Learn About Light

Mrs. Rodgersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first-grade class at Emmanuel Christian Academy enjoyed visiting the science lab and learning about how light is made up of different colors. The students looked at various light sources using prisms and spectroscopes.

Please email news and photos to schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com!

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Houston County SPAN Students Volunteer

The A-mazing SPAN students volunteered at the Southeast Alabama Child Advocacy Center, sorting T-shirt orders for the Blue Ribbon Campaign. Thank you to AJ, IH, JR, and AB for representing us well in the community.

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Providence Christian Spring Musical Bethel Academy Student Designs T-Shirt For Groundwater Education Day

At the 2019 Houston County Groundwater Education Day at Wallace College March 15, Wiregrass RC&D members stopped in to present a trophy to Ella Reid of Bethel Christian Academy, since she was the overall winner for the event T-shirt design. Shown from left are Glenda Yohn, Soil & Water Conservation; Ronnie Davis, executive director of WRC&D; Ella Reid; Gloria Jeffcoat, Houston Co Farmers Fereration; Houston County Commissioner Doug Sinquefield; and Sheila Andreasen, Houston County 4-H / Groundwater Chair.

Providence Seniors Teach Laws of Motion

Sixth-graders thoroughly enjoyed the “Laws of Motion” lab conducted by the senior physics class at Providence Christian School. They demonstrated three laws of motion using interactive experiments. We love it when our older students can mentor our younger students.

Northside Methodist Academy Volleyball Tryouts Week of May 6

ECS Students Named Athletes of Year

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Emilee Rodgers and Jalyn Brown were named the Emmanuel Christian School Wiregrass Christian Athletes of the Year! Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

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Boll Weevils Read to Kindergartners

Some of the EOCC Boll Weevil Baseball Team spent the morning reading to kindergartners. The baseball organization states, â&#x20AC;&#x153;... Learning to serve and give back to the community is just as important to our player development as on the field work.â&#x20AC;? Kindergarten students were delighted to hear wonderful stories from special readers all week.

Rucker Boulevard Outdoor Classroom

Sixth-grade students at Rucker Boulevard are shown working in the outdoor classroom. The classrooms aims to inspire future farmers, landscape designers, agricultural agents, gardeners, biologists and ecologists.

Enterprise City Queens Crowned

Congratulations to our 2019-20 Enterprise Queens! Miss Enterprise is Ashley Clarke; Little Miss Enterprise Adalyn Collins; Teen Miss Kaitlyn Thomas; Junior Miss Macy McMahan; Petite Miss Riley Warren; and Future Little Miss Jenna Kate Barrette. 17

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Providence Christian ‘Tastes the Timeline’

On March 14, Providence Christian School held its very first Taste the Timeline event. Students in first through sixth grades presented desserts from the time period that they have been studying for a tasting competition. A wonderful evening of school fellowship was enjoyed, as well as the opportunity to listen to Houston Baptist University professor and C.S. Lewis scholar, Louis Markos, share about how classical Christian education prepares students for college and beyond. On March 15, Markos spoke more about classical Christian education at the PCS Annual Fund Luncheon. Thank you to everyone who has supported the school’s mission to equip students to follow Christ so they can change the world!

NMA Students Named FCA Athletes of the Year

Mackenzie Eiland and Blake Calhoun are Northside Methodist Academy’s Fellowship of Christian Athletes of the Year. They were honored at Ridgecrest Baptist Church’s FCA banquet.

Providence Christian Eagles Win Terry Collins Memorial Tournament

Providence Christian School’s varsity softball team won the Dothan High School Terry Collins Memorial Tournament. Go Eagles!

Emmanuel Christian First-Graders Measure Up

Houston Academy Football Player Commits to Ohio’s Miami University

Mrs. Wyatt’s first-graders at Emmanuel Christian School have been experimenting and learning about cups, pints, quarts, liters and gallons as they learn about units of measurement in math class.

Houston Academy senior Henry Beckett committied to Miami University (in Ohio) to continue his academic and athletic career. Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

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Houston County Career Academy Students Learn About Future Jobs

Cloverdale Students Win Math Competition

These are the top grade-level winners of the Matific National Math Competition at Cloverdale Elementary.

Local business and industry owners, managers, and supervisors spoke with Houston County Career Acade-my students at the 3rd annual Business and Industry Panel about what they can expect when applying and interviewing for a future career. Thank you to our business and industry partners who took time out of their work day in order to participate in this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s event!

Northside Methodist Seniors Test Name Brand vs. Store Brand

Ms. Deckerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior economics class held a Name Brand vs. Store Brand blind taste test challenge to wrap up their unit on budgeting and personal finance. Many were surprised by the differences in taste and price between the products!

Enterprise Early Ed Center Displays Generosity

Enterprise Early Education Center collected donation items for Lee County tornado relief.

Carroll High School Students Named FCA Athletes of the Year

Please email news and photos to: schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com! 19

Fellowship of Christian Athletes has named Carroll High School students Samantha Adams and Elijah Schwartzkopf winners of the FCA Athletes of the Year award. Athletic director is Dana Langford and community sponsor is Kirke Adams. www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Enterprise HOSA Students Advance to Leadership Conference

Enterprise HOSA students competed at SLC in Montgomery. Thirty-four students competed, 25 students placed in “Top 6” and 18 students placed in “Top 3,” which qualifies them to attend and compete at the HOSA International Leadership Conference in June at Disney World. Enterprise HOSA had five 1st-place state winners (transcultural healthcare, medical spelling, medical terminology, CPR/First Aid, HOSA Bowl), one 2nd-place state winner (CPR/First Aid), and four 3rd-place winners (nursing assistant, CERT, CPR/First Aid, HOSA Bowl) and a HOSA state officer! Congratulations to all of our Wildcats that competed and represented Enterprise in such an incredible manner.

Rucker Boulevard Students Place at Junior Beta Convention

Shown above, Rucker Boulevard student Reagan Eagle was the 2nd-place Digital Arts winner at the Junior Beta Convention 2019. Below, Jade Ramatowski received 2nd place in Creative Writing.

Please email news and photos to: schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com!

Holly Hill Beta Members Place at State Convention

Fifth- and sixthgrade Beta Club members from Holly Hill Elementary attended the state convention, where they won first place in Elementary Quiz Bowl, first place in Elementary Book Battle, first place in Elementary Math, fourth in Elementary Social Studies, first in Elementary Drawing, third in Recyclable Art, fifth in Fiber Arts, first in Junior Division Recyclable Art, third in Junior Division Mixed Media, and first in Junior Division Science.

Enterprise Early Ed Center Trike-a-thon

The Enterprise Early Education Center 2019 Trike-a-thon was a WIN! Thank you to our wonderful PE department, staff, parents and Kindercats who made it possible! The bike winners are shown: Isaac Kindred (Mrs. Boutwell) and Allison Plant (Mrs. Andress).

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

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Hillcrest Elementary Students Place at Junior Beta Convention

Hillcrest Beta students won numerous awards at the Beta Club convention including first place in group talent and Songfest.

Carroll Senior Wins First Dylan Gunter & Nick Flores Leadership Scholarship

Carroll High School senior Isaiah Thompson-Terry has become the very first winner of the Dylan Gunter and Nick Flores Leadership Scholarship. Thompson-Terry plans to study full time at Tuskegee University, and he has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities and the potential for excellence. Thompson-Terry is a leader in the band, Performing Arts Club, Spanish Club, Student Government Association, Mu Alpha Theta Math Honor Society and National Honor Society. Furthermore, he has earned one of the best academic GPAs (on top of excellent standardized test scores) ever seen from a Carroll High student. Thompson-Terryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s essay responses not only demonstrated an understanding of the mental health issues in our society today, but also a desire to further resource awareness to others about these issues.

Three Houston Academy Seniors Recognized By National Merit

Three Houston Academy seniors were recognized by the National Merit Scholarship Program. Walker Sexton is recognized as a Commended Student by NMSQ. He placed among the top 50,000 scorers of more than 1.6 millions students who entered the competition by taking the 2017 PSAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test. Chaitanya Chennareddy and Jackson Norsworthy are National Merit Finalists. They placed in the top 1% of students who took the PSAT/NMSQT and are eligible for merit scholarships. 21

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Windham Elementary Students Try to Trap Leprechaun

Mrs. Chalker’s class at Windham Elementary wrote about how to trap a leprechaun and brought in fancy leprechaun traps from home. Unfortunately the leprechaun outsmarted this first-grade class so no gold and treasures!

Carroll High JROTC Aces JPA

Carroll High School’s Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps had recent JPA (program accreditation) and did fantastic! Drill Team received 20/20, Color Guard 14/15, Continuous Improvement Project 34/35, Service Learning Project 20/20, Cadet Interview 15/15 and Overall 98.6 out of 100.

S m E a C w u c S

Please email news and photos to schoolnews @wiregrassparents.com by the 8th of each month!

Carroll Cosmetology Students Teach Healthy Nail Habits

Mrs. Chapman’s class at Carroll High is learning about self-care and hygiene. Check out Mrs. Shawn’s cosmetology class showing off their newly learned nail skills, and teaching their peers about healthy nail care!

Windham Elementary Mini Mermaids Run 5K

The finish line is only the beginning! Windham Elementary’s Mini Mermaids finished the 5k and celebrated with Gatorade and doughnuts. Thankful for our supporters! Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

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E c o i t l

Slocomb Singers Make All-State Choirs

Slocomb High School singers Emma Edmondson, Spencer Baxley and Maycie Edmondson auditioned and were chosen as members of the 2019 Alabama All-State Choirs! These Redtops spent two days working with other Alabama musicians under the direction of professional clinicians to prepare for the annual concert at Samford University. What an honor!

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Hands-on Idioms at Early County

Early County students in Mrs. Gancerez’s class taught each other about idioms using Chromebooks before creating illustrations to express the meaning of the sayings. Students then took a “Gallery Walk” to deepen their understanding. 23

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Headland Bible Study Raises Funds for Disaster Relief

Headland High School has an active Bible Study group that meets on Wednesdays at break. Thanks to Keith Carter’s class for making our T-shirts! We raised more than $200 for Alabama Baptist Disaster Relief.

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Slocomb English Team Places in Tournament

Slocomb High School’s English Team competed at the ESCC English Tournament. Senior Maycie Edmondson placed second in British Literature and won honorable mention in both American Literature and vocabulary. Senior Spencer Baxley placed second in language. Junior Mason Hagler placed third in writing, and senior Scarlett Richards won honorable mention in language. Way to go, Redtops!

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ACA Raises $5K for American Heart Association

Slocomb Concert Band Performs at Pea River Concert Festival

The Slocomb High School Concert Band performed at the Pea River Concert Festival in Elba. After their performance, they were able to attend an evaluation clinic with the adjudicators. What an opportunity for these students! “I’m very proud of our band students today,” said Slocomb High School Band Director Jeff Carpenter. “Not only did they do great on stage but the judges also complimented them on their manners and professionalism as well. We have some of the best students at Slocomb High School in our band program, and they represented our school and community very well today.” Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

The elementary students at Abbeville Christian Academy participated in the Kids’ Heart Challenge sponsored by the American Heart Association. The top 12 students who raised the most money got to “pie” either Coach Carlisle or Ms. Pam. It seems that Ms. Pam was a favorite. The 2nd-grade class won a party for the most money raised and the lovely Ms. Bridgett received a Hobby Lobby gift card for the most kids registered online. $5,215.20 was raised overall. Thank you to everyone for your support. www.wiregrassparents.com

Life Insurance Q. My husband and I are 24, we’re debtfree, and we’re just a few weeks of saving away from having a fully-funded emergency fund. Each of us has a 401(k) plan at work, and right now we’re concentrating on life insurance purchases. You always recommend term insurance, but how long should the coverage last? A. Congratulations on being super smart with your money! It sounds like you two are starting out on the right foot. Generally, I recommend 15- or 20year level term policies—unless you have children. Since you didn’t mention any kids, I can only assume they’re not in the picture at this point. However, if you two decide to grow your family in the future, I’d advise converting those to 30-year term policies. You’ll want the insurance there to protect everyone in the family, until the kids are grown and out on their own. In the

A. There are two components to an HSA, the insurance component and the savings component. You don’t have to participate in the savings component. The insurance component is simply a large deductible,

100 percent coverage after the deductible, cheaper-premium health insurance plan. If I were in Baby Step 2, I would not do the savings component. I would only do the insurance component, or I’d do the medical sharing program. I’m not sure why you’d need to jump back and forth it you’re going to permanently move to a medical sharing program. I get the idea of saving money, but what you’re talking about isn’t something I’d recommend for someone who’s in debt. I wouldn’t fund a savings account of several thousand dollars only for medical when you’re not even on Baby Step 3, which is saving an emergency fund of three to six months of expenses. That money needs to be used to pay off debt first. It’s not the end of the world if you don’t fund the HSA portion of your current insurance plan. If you went with a medical sharing program, and just saved up a large emergency fund, the only thing you’d really lose out on is the tax deduction associated with an HSA.

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years after, continued saving and wealth building will lead you to a point where you’re both self-insured.

Insurance and Savings Q. I just realized our insurance has a

health savings account (HSA) option. We’ve considered dropping this insurance soon and going to a cheaper Christian medical sharing program. We’ve got about $19,000 in debt between credit cards and a car payment, and we’re on Baby Step 2 of your plan. Our thought was to fund the HSA for a period of time as a means of saving, cancel that policy, then go over to a medical sharing program we found that costs $600 a month less. After that, we would start paying down debt again. What do you think?

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Drink It Down. Put your daily allotment of water in a pitcher

My normal state is upbeat, optimistic and energetic. So if I am feeling out of sorts in any way, I know something is up. I am fortunate to be blessed with good health and a positive disposition. Unfortunately, over the years, I have also developed some minor health challenges that can rob me of my usual energy, motivation, and pleasure when I am not keeping close tabs on my daily attitude. If you are experiencing consistent low energy, it’s time to visit your doctor, who can run a series of tests to determine if you have a medical condition in need of treatment. But if you only feel occasionally out of steam or out of sorts, maybe it’s time to pay better attention to your energy tank. Is your tank typically half-full or even running on empty? No matter what the cause of your energy dips, the best way to banish the doldrums and bounce back with vigor is to pay attention to ways to increase your energy each day. So, the next time you feel wiped out, whether for an hour, a day or even a series of days. See if you can pump your energy back up by trying some of these simple yet helpful mood boosters:

on the counter and drink the pitcher down as the day goes along. You don’t have to sip your water slowly, and it’s easy to chug down and absorb if you keep it at room temperature. The Mayo Clinic recommends women drink nine cups or 2.2 liters per day.

Snooze Better. Keep the bedroom tidy. Block out any evening or morning window light with heavy drapes. Change your sheets weekly. Replace any bumpy or ragged pillows. Let Sunshine In. Open up those shades and blinds and

give the windows a quick wipe down for an immediate moodimprover. Sunshine boosts your happy hormone, serotonin, and increases white blood cell production, which helps boost your immune system.

Keep Blood Sugar Steady. Add more protein into your diet so you will stay energized longer. Try easy-to-incorporate sources like yogurt, cottage cheese, or eggs.

Up The Green Stuff. Try Odwalla Superfood juice. Add spinach or kale to your next smoothie. Put a couple of teaspoons of Vitamineral Green superfood powder into your daily juice. If you are vitamin/mineral-deficient, you will likely notice the difference immediately once you ingest more much-needed meanie-greenies.

Buy Some Boing. Bounce back more quickly from every-

thing with a pair of new sneakers and some cushy athletic socks. Put them to ample use by wearing them indoors and out.

Surround Smile. Hang images of smiling people you love everywhere. Put away any photos that bring you down. What other images or words bring you joy? Get them out and up.

Move That Booty. Try aerobic exercise three times a week for thirty minutes, five times a week for twenty minutes, or just get out for a daily walk. Put on your workout clothes first thing after you get up, to remind yourself to make exercise a daily priority.

Share The Bouquet Bounty. Purchase a large bunch of flowers and then break the blooms up into smaller vases around

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the house. Combine a few flowers with twigs and blooms in season by the front door.

Freshen Up. Add a mint or eucalyptus

Brighten Up. Dispel shadowy corners by changing all the burned out bulbs in the house. Then restock your back-up supply, so you will be ready for next time.

Still Tired? Try an easy-to-absorb iron supplement daily for one week. Take it with a citrusy beverage. Notice an improvement? You just might need more iron on an ongoing or cyclical basis. Ask your doctor about a blood test to find out where you stand.

Wash Away The Dust.

Boost Your Energy On The Go

body and foot scrub to your shower gel collection. Either one will wake you right up.

Launder the curtains, the blankets, and the pet beds. This keeps the air cleaner and keeps seasonal allergies at bay, as well.

Here are some items to keep in your purse or car that will keep your energy running high all day no matter what you have on your to-do list: • Small packets of trail mix • Non-sugary granola bars • A water bottle that fits in your car’s beverage holder • A couple of individually wrapped Yerba Maté tea bags • Minty gum or breath fresheners • Photos in your wallet of your most beloved people • Lip-gloss in your favorite color • Roll-on perfume to dab on your wrist • Divinely scented hand cream WP

Chew Longer. Put a bowl of fresh fruit next to the couch near

the TV. Continually rotate a variety of crudités in the fridge. When you need to crunch, choose healthy junk food like popcorn or baked chips.

Spritz Things Up. Place some lemon or orange air fresheners around the house, especially in the kitchen, bathrooms, and pet rooms.

Bring On The Berries. Keep a variety of energizing berries in the house year round, if you can. Add their intense color to at least two meals a day.

Author, journalist, and writing coach Christina Katz maintains a fairly bouncy attitude but still requires an occasional energy tune-up.

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How Girls Are Seeking (and Subverting) Approval Online

“no-filter” trend is prompting girls to share their true selves and accept (and even challenge) whatever feedback they receive. Under hashtags such as “uglyselfie,” and “nomakeup” girls post pics of their unadorned selves, funny faces, unretouched images, and “epic fails” (attempts at perfect selfies that went wrong). Given that adolescents are naturally eager for peer validation -- precisely when they begin to use social tools that provide it -it’s encouraging to see kids having fun with the notion of perfection. As a matter of fact, one of the Common Sense study’s most welcome findings is that social media has the potential to combat unrealistic appearance ideals and stereotypes. And, after all, kids use social media to be, well, social, and constant rejection and pressure is no fun at all. It makes you realize just how powerful social media tools can be. While they foster relationships and engagement -- and can even bolster self-esteem -- they can be both constructive and destructive. That’s why you can’t leave it all up to kids to find their way. Whether your kids are just getting into social media or are seasoned posters, it’s critical to help guide them to use Snapchat, Instagram, and other networking apps for fun and connection and not as fuel for self-doubt.

It’s not a law that you have to post a selfie before, during, and after every activity. But for kids, it’s pretty much mandatory. The resulting likes, thumbs-ups, and other ratings all get tallied, both in the stark arithmetic of the Internet and in kids’ own minds. For some -- especially girls -- what starts as a fun way to document and share experiences can turn into an obsession about approval that can wreak havoc on self-image. That kids have been comparing themselves to popular images in traditional media -- and coming up short -- is a well-researched phenomenon. But new studies are just beginning to determine the effects of social media -- which is arguably more immediate and intimate -- on the way kids view themselves. A Common Sense survey called “Children, Teens, Media, and Body Image” found that many teens who are active online fret about how they’re perceived, and that girls are particularly vulnerable: * 35 percent are worried about people tagging them in unattractive photos. * 27 percent feel stressed about how they look in posted photos. * 22 percent felt bad about themselves if their photos were ignored.

What You Can Do

Talk about the pictures they post. Experimenting with identity is natural, and it’s very common for kids to adopt provocative stances in cell phone pictures, on their social network pages, and in YouTube videos. But are they doing it only because they think others expect it of them? What pose would they strike if they could do anything they wanted? Ask how feedback makes them feel. Are they stressed out by others’ comments and feedback? Does it make them feel better to be “liked?” Why is external approval important? How do negative comments make them feel? Help them develop a healthy self-image. Body image is developed early in childhood, and the family environment is very influential on how kids view themselves. Emphasize what the body can do instead of what it looks like. Also, be careful of criticizing your own looks and weight. Rely on role models. Positive role models have an enormous effect on kids. Cultivate relationships with women your daughter can look up to. Also, point out celebrities and other famous folks who challenge stereotypes about size and beauty and seem comfortable in their own skins. Help them stop the cycle. Urge them to post constructive comments that support their friends for who they are, not what they look like.

How Kids Get Feedback

You probably know about popular apps such as Instagram and Snapchat. But the specific ways kids use these tools to get -and give -- feedback can be troubling. Here are a few examples: Instagram. The number of followers, likes, and emojis kids can collect gets competitive, with users often begging for them. Instagram “beauty pageants” and other photo-comparison activities crop up, with losers earning a big red X on their pics. Snapchat. Numerical scores display the total number of sent and received chats. You can view your friends’ scores to keep tabs on who’s racking up the most views. Lipsi. This anonymous question-and-answer app lets kids find out what others think of them. “Am I pretty or ugly?” YouTube videos. Kids -- mostly girls -post videos of themselves asking if other users think they’re pretty or ugly. These videos are typically public, allowing anyone -- from kids at school to random strangers -- to post a comment.

The Good News

Although approval-seeking and self-doubt continue to plague girls both privately and publicly, there are signs of fatigue. The 29

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Looking for daycare is one of the more stressful tasks parents of young children face. Not only do parents have to contend with the logistics, such as convenience of location and hours of operation, but of utmost concern is safety and development of their child. Although national statistics on abuse and neglect by daycare providers alone isn’t readily available, some experts estimate approximately 5% of child abuse and neglect cases occur at daycare homes and facilities. So parents should take extra precautions in finding suitable care for their children. There are several steps parents can take before sending their child to a new daycare to ensure their child’s safety and well-being. If possible, try to visit several daycare homes or facilities so you can make comparisons.

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

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Is the Daycare Licensed?

The first thing to look for is whether a daycare facility or home is licensed. Licensing is required in most states if the caregiver isn’t a relative. Visit your state’s licensing and regulatory affairs department website to look up a daycare to ensure its license is current.

Is the Daycare in Compliance?

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While you’re at the website, find out what your state’s requirements are for daycare homes and centers, so you know what to expect. You’ll want to keep this information handy when you tour the home or facility, so you know whether the daycare you’re considering complies.

The Daycare Tour

A tour of the daycare will tell you a lot. So don’t be shy about asking for a full tour. Think of it, however, as an inspection. Look for the following: • Are all areas that are used by or accessible to children thoroughly childproofed? • Are there safety plugs in all electrical outlets? • Are stairways securely blocked off? • Do kitchen and bathroom cabinets have child locks? • Do exterior doors have safety locks up high? • Is there a pool or hot tub in the area? If so, it should be completely fenced off with a childproof gate. • Is there a fenced outdoor play area? • Is it tidy aside from toys children are playing with? • Do the bathroom and kitchen appear sanitary? • Is the heating or cooling set at a comfortable temperature? • Are there adequate toys and equipment for the number and ages of children? • Do cribs, playpens, and other baby equipment meet safety standards? • Is the number of children present within the capacity the daycare’s licensed for? Does the daycare meet the appropriate ratio of caregivers to children? • Does it smell clean? Or do you smell neglected diapers or cigarette smoke? • Are the children happy and content? • Is there ample space for the children to play? • How does the staff interact with the children?

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

and at Children’s of Alabama, we want to see every child grow up and live to their fullest potential. That’s why we recruit, train and retain the most inquiring minds, the most skilled hands and the most compassionate hearts in pediatric medicine. 1 6 0 0 7 T H AV E N U E S O U T H B I R M I N G H A M , A L 3 5 2 3 3

The Daycare Interview

This is another and equally important step to finding a quality loving environment for your child. Take this list of questions with you and add your own questions as well.

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ChildrensAL.org

• Do you ever take children in the car? If so, are there enough child seats and seat belts for each child? • Are there other members living in your home or outside staff who will care for the children? • How are naps handled? • What is the experience or education of the daycare provider and staff? • What is your policy when a child is sick? • Is video available so I can peek in at my child from my computer or phone? WP

• What is the maximum number of children you have in your care at any time? • What are the age ranges of the children you care for? • What types of activities do you do with the children? • Are meals and snacks provided? If so, of what do they consist? • Can I drop in unannounced? • How do you handle discipline?

Kimberly Blaker is the author of a kid’s STEM book, Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? She also writes a blog, at www.modernfamilystyle.com.

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Abbeville Lil’ Angels Daycare

111 Ozark Rd., 36310 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: Teresa Morgan (334) 585-2440

NeNe’s Daycare and Learning Center

114 E. Alabama St., 36310 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 3 months-6 years Extra Options: After school program. Contact: Rosalyn Sanders (334) 585-0450

Ashford Ashford Christian Development Center

500 Adams St., 36312 Curriculum: A Beka Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: Daycare 6 weeks-16 years / Preschool 2-4 years Extra Options: After school care. Parents Night Out. Contact: April Alford (334) 899-3746 ezzmoma@aim.com ashfordcdc.com

Funshine Playschool

120 N. County Rd. 33, 36312 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: Callie Everett (334) 899-3987 funshineplayschool.com

Precious One Daycare

1328 Old Hwy 84, 36312 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: Rose Kincey (334) 899-7335

Daleville Another Mother’s Love Learning Center 118 Hillside Dr., 36322 Hours: 24 hours Ages: 4 weeks-12 years Contact: Valeria Terry (334) 709-4141

Happy Hearts Christian Academy

81 Old Hwy 134 West, 36322 Hours: Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: Britney Coker (334) 598-4030

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

Dothan

Brenda’s Preparatory School

Covenant Preschool & Childcare ad on page 28

3610 W. Main St., 36303 Curriculum: Weekday Early Education and Scott Foresman Reading Street Hours: Preschool Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. / Daycare Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.4:30 p.m. Ages: Preschool 3 & 4 years / Daycare 6 weeks -5 years Meals: Hot Extra Options: Mothers Morning Out. Multiple child discount. Annual registration fee. Contact: Krystal Davis (334) 793-4440 ext. 106 covenantdothan.org/daycare

A+ Child Care & Learning Academy

3296 W. Main St., 36305 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Ages: 4 weeks-14 years Contact: Wanda Cook (334) 699-8067 w_wcook@yahoo.com

ABC Academy

216 Montana St., 36303 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-14 years Contact: Yvonne Lee

1792 Headland Ave., 36303 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-11:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-14 years Contact: Brenda Guilford (334) 794-3315

Calvary Baptist Preschool

901 Montezuma Ave., 36303 Curriculum: A Beka and Touch Math Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-K4 Meals: Lunch and snack Extra Options: Holiday care. Summer camp. Contact: Michelle Beasley (334) 793-9898 michelle@calvarydothan.com www.calvarydothan.com

Christian Kids Academy

205 Executive Park Dr., 36303 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. / Saturday Program 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. or 4:00 p.m.-Midnight Ages: 2.5-5 years Meals: Included in tuition. Extra Options: Summer program. Contact: Sue Tate (334) 803-0291 sue@christiankidsacademy.com www.christiankidsacademy.com

Denton Road United Methodist Church Childcare Center

(334) 793-6462

2410 Denton Rd., 36303 Ages: 6 weeks-9 years Contact: Wilma McVay

Alfred Saliba Family Services/Early Head Start

(334) 793-9173 umc2410@comcast.net

545 W. Main St., Suite 404, 36301 Hours: Monday 8:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-3 years Contact: Linda O’Connell (334) 794-4929 eclkc.ohs.acf.hhs.gov

Angels Child Care & Academy

1041 S. Park Ave., 36301 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-Midnight / Saturday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-18 years Contact: Sametha Colvin (334) 792-9227

Beulah Land Christian Academy

254 Headland Ave., 36303 Ages: 6 weeks-7 years Meals: Breakfast, lunch and afternoon snack Contact: Jackie Harvey-Hutchins (334) 712-0200 www.greaterbeulahdothan.com

Brannon Stand Christian Academy

2487 S. Brannon Stand Rd., 36304 Curriculum: A Beka Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-6 years Meals: 2 hot meals and snacks Contact: Susie Howes (334) 494-8935 brannonstandchristianacademy@gmail.com brannonstandchristianacademy.com

Dothan Montessori School

205 Holly Lane, 36301 Curriculum: Montessori Hours: Toddler & Primary Programs 8:00 a.m.12:00 p.m. / Lower Elementary 8:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Ages: 18 months-3rd grade Extra Options: Snack and supply fee. Contact: Adrienne Lorton (334) 671-7170 dms.adrienne@gmail.com www.dothanmontessorischool.org

Eastside Childcare

2846 Columbia Hwy., 36303 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Extra Options: Early Head Start and First Class PreK program. Contact: Wendy Calhoon (334) 671-0342

Evergreen Presbyterian Preschool Ministries 1103 N. Pontiac Ave., 36303 Hours: Full- time: 6:30 a.m. -5:30 p.m. MondayFriday / Part-time: 6:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. Monday - Friday Contact: Michelle Quattlebaum (334) 794-7319 evergreentouchstones@gmail.com evergreenpres.net

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First Baptist Child Development Center

Ages: 3 weeks-14 years Extra Options: Nighttime care available. Contact: Tammie Leake-Potter

300 W. Main St., 36301 Curriculum: A Beka Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-K4 Extra Options: Summer program. Contact: Rachel Gulledge

(334) 792-0180

Kiddie Care Learning Center

(334) 677-6174 ext. 244 rachel@fbcdothan.org www.fbcdothan.org/child-development-center

First Presbyterian Preschool & Kindergarten 3012 W. Main St., 36305 Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Ages: 2 years-K5 Meals: Lunch and snacks. Extra Options: Extended hours childcare available. Contact: Bonnie Wright

(334) 793-6283 bwright@firstpresdothan.com www.fppdothan.com

First United Methodist Church

1380 W. Main St., 36302 Curriculum: A Beka Hours: Full-Time Daycare: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. / Preschool: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-5 years Meals: Lunch and 2 snacks Extra Options: Summer program and drop-in procedure for siblings. Contact: Krysten Watts

(334) 673-2595

(334) 678-2339 www.kiddiecarelc.com

Little Stars Learning Center

Kiddie Garden Childcare & Learning Center 930 E. Burdeshaw St., 36303 Curriculum: OWL Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Meals: Breakfast, lunch, 2 snacks Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: Zann Melton Stewart (334) 699-1762 zmelt@yahoo.com

Kids United Child Development Center

(334) 793-3555 krysten@fumcdothan.org www.fumcdothan.org/ weekday-ministry

Honeysuckle Chlidcare & Preschool

(334) 479-0833 kidsunited.hamilton@gmail.com www.kidsunitedcdc.com

L & J Noah’s Ark Learning Center & Child Care

(334) 677-8800

India’s Tiny Tots Daycare and Learning Center 404 N. Cherry St., 36303 Hours: Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-11:30 p.m.

1062 Hadden Rd., 36301 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:45 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Extra Options: After school program. Contact: Amanda Taylor

218 Graceland Dr., 36305 Curriculum: Opening the World of Learning Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-Midnight / Saturday 8:00 a.m.-Midnight Meals: Hot meals and snacks Extra Options: After school care available. Summer program. Contact: Cameka Beard

109 Wanda Ct., 36303 Hours: Monday-Saturday 6:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: Kala Hamilton

1765 Honeysuckle Rd., 36305 Hours: Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 4 weeks-12 years Contact: Susan Kennedy

Little Rebels Learning Academy

Little Scholars Academy

642 S. Alice St., 36301 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 4 weeks-12 years Contact: Nakeisha Foster (334) 446-6277

3348 Denton Rd., 36303 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-13 years Contact: Phyllis Porter (334) 678-7827

Mother Goose Kindergarten

787 N. Park Ave., 36303 Curriculum: Pre-K Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 18 months-10 years (334) 792-5913 mothergoosekindergarten.business.site

First Presbyterian Mother’s Morning Out/ Little Lambs

3012 W. Main St., 36305 Hours: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Ages: 6 months-5 years Extra Options: 2 and 3-day, and summer program. (334) 794-3128 lhogg@firstpresdothan.com www.firstpresdothan.com

119 E. Selma St., 36301 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-16 years Meals: 2 meals and 2 snacks Contact: Laura Lee

Mt. Gilead Baptist Church

(334) 446-3187 Ljnoahsarkdaycare@aol.com

(334) 792-4842 mgbcdothan.com

t u o b a l l a s ’ It

2864 S. Brannon Stand Rd., 36305 Hours: Tuesday & Thursday 9:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. Ages: Birth-4k Contact: Peggy Vinson

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

inning, w d r a w a n a n o t Don’t miss ou p for your m a c d e r te n e c tis Chr mmer! daughter this Su Best of Parenting WINNER 10

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On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama !

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

800-882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.com 33

• 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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2019

Southside Kiddie Kollege

1746 Cottonwood Rd., 36301 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: Joanne Shipes (334)793-7135

St. Columba Catholic Church Mother’s Morning Out

2734 W. Main St., 36301 Hours: 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday Ages: 1-4 years Extra Options: Two or three-day programs. Registration fee. Monthly tuition. Contact: Jennifer Garcia

GUIDE New Beginning Ministries/ Ivy League Academy

800 W. Powell St., 36303 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: Rawle Phillip Mitchell (334) 699-1780

Pal-A-Roos

1310 Hodgesville Rd., 36301 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 3 weeks-12 years Extra Options: Pre-K and after school program. Contact: Kimberly Sikes (334) 673-1717 palaroos@ymail.com

Rainbow Christian Learning Center/Daycare 104 N. Herring St., 36303 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: Mae Hudgens (334) 792-5605

Ridgecrest Baptist Child Development Center 1263 Fortner St., 36301 Curriculum: Wee Learn and A Beka Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-K5 Meals: Lunch, morning and afternoon snack Contact: Shirley Leach

(334) 792-8441 sleach@rbcdothan.org www.rbcdothan.org

Smart Start Learning Center

655 Headland Ave., 36303 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-11:00 p.m. / Saturday 6:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-14 years Meals: Hot Extra Options: Night care and Saturday care available. Before and after school pick-up. Contact: Natasha Scott (334) 699-0901

Southeast Health Child Development Center

302 Haven Dr., 36302 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-5 years Meals: Nutritious meals and snacks Extra Options: After school care offered. Summer program. Annual registration fee. Contact: (334) 793-8888 www.southeasthealth.org/child-development-center

Southside Baptist Church Child Development Center

423 E. Cottonwood Rd., 36301 Curriculum: A Beka Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-5 years Meals: Hot Extra Options: Summer program (through age 12). Contact: Melanie Wynkoop (334) 699-5020 melanie@sbcdothan.org

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

(334) 944-6526 jgarcia@stcolumbacatholic.com stcolumbacatholic.com/mmo

Trinity Learning Center

3077 Hartford Hwy., 36305 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 4 weeks-10 Years Extra Options: Parent access to webcams. Contact: Betty Povlacs (334) 677-8746 bgivens714@yahoo.com tlcdothan.com

Tush & Toddlers Child Development Center

1750 Ross Clark Cir., 36301 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-Midnight Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Extra Options: Early and extended care available. Contact: Jackquline Hall (334) 673-2205

Enterprise Head Start

1617 E. Park Ave., 36330 Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Ages: 3-5 years Contact: Donna Wright (334) 347-4434

Kare Bear Christian Daycare

1117 Rucker Blvd., 36330 Hours: Monday-Friday 5:00 a.m.-Midnight / Saturday 9:00 a.m.-9:00 p.m. Ages: Birth-12 years Contact: Latasha Brady (334) 489-4644 karebearchristian@yahoo.com

Kiddie Care Learning Center

7 N. Pointe Blvd., 36330 Curriculum: Opening the World of Learning Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-Midnight / Saturday 8:00 a.m.-Midnight Extra Options: After school care available. Summer program. Contact: Dorothy Green (334) 347-2716 www.kiddiecarelc.com

Little Blessings Mother’s Day Out Hillcrest Batist Church, 500 Alberta St., 36330

Curriculum: Lifeway Hours: 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-Preschoolers Meals: Peanut-free snack provided. Parents must send lunch daily. Extra Options: Early and extended care available. Summer program. Follows Enterprise City Schools holiday schedule. Contact: Annette Whitton

(334) 347-2516 children@hbce.org www.hbce.org

Way to Grow Child Developmet Center 172 Prevatt Rd., 36301 Hours: Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Contact: Makayla Colley (334) 702-1119 waytogrowlc@gmail.com

Panda Kare Child Care and Learning Center 102 Dauphin St., 36330 Hours: Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Ages: 4 weeks-12 years Contact: Stephanie McKenzie (334) 347-4117

Enterprise

Refuge Christian Academy Preschool

Mom’s Day Out & Stepping Stones Preschool (Enterprise FUMC) ad on page 11

Enterprise FUMC, 217 S. Main St., 36330 Curriculum: Core Knowledge Ages: 5 months-4 years Extra Options: Lunch Bunch, Early Care, and Extended Care available. Mom’s Day Out Summer Camp. Multiple child discount. Follows Enterprise City Schools schedule. Extras: music, movement, chapel, and library. Contact: Tammy Ezzell (334) 347-3467 mdo@efumc.com www.efumc.com

Bubbling Babies

1149 James Dr., 36330 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Extra Options: After school care. Contact: Victoria Watson (334) 347-7722

Candy Cane Kids Day Care 2940 Rucker Blvd., 36330 Hours: 5:00 a.m.-Midnight Ages: 6 weeks-15 years Contact: Winona Nelson (334) 347-4082

Enterprise Christian Learning Center

5 N. Pointe Blvd., 36330 Curriculum: Beka Book Hours: Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks Extra Options: Transportation to and from school. Contact: Hollie Nickole Segall (334) 347-5774 info@enterprisechristian.com www.enterprisechristian.com

1507 E. Park Ave., 36330 Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-4 years Extra Options: After school and summer programs available. Contact: Elisha Hodg (334) 489-4535 along.rca@gmail.com www.refugeschool.com

Saint John Catholic Montessori School 123 Heath St., 36330 Curriculum: Montessori Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Ages: 3-6 years Meals: Morning snack Contact: Sandra Pellissier (334) 347-0413 sjcmontessori@yahoo.com www.saintjohnmontessori.com

Small Steps Learning Center and Daycare 219 Chinook Dr., 36330 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-6 years Contact: Shelia Watson (334) 635-7858

Small Steps Preschool First Baptist Church 302 N. Main St., 36330 Curriculum: ABC Jesus Loves Me Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Ages: 1-PreK Extra Options: Extended day option. STEM and Sensory Classrooms. Multiple child discount. Contact: LeAnn Thomas (334) 393-5683 smallsteps@fbcenterprise.com www.fbcenterprise.com

Stepping Stones Preschool

145 Dauphin St., 36330 Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-5:00 p.m Ages: 2.5-5 years Extra Options: Summer program. Contact: Merrilyn Lewis (334) 347-4852 steppingstonespreschool@yahoo.com steppingstonespreschool-llc.com

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The Y Christian Preschool

904 Ozark Hwy., 36330 Curriculum: Pathways for Pre-school Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 2.5-5 years Extra Options: Mornings and all day sessions. Contact: Jerre Simmons (334) 347-4513 www.enymca.org

Wiregrass Christian Academy Preschool

209 W. College St., 36330 Curriculum: Bible and A Beka Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Extra Options: Early and extended care available. Contact: Sandra Turner (334) 393-8972 wiregrassca@entercomp.com wiregrasschristianacademy.org

Fort Rucker Child Development Center

8938 Red Cloud Rd., 36362 Hours: Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-5 years Extra Options: Pre-Kindergarten program. Hourly care available. Before and after-school care. Summer day camp program. (334) 255-2262 rucker.army.mwr.com

The Owlâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Nest Family Child Care

96 Red Cloud Rd., 36362 Ages: 2-4 years Extra Options: Monthly, daily, hourly care available. (907) 978-5103 emtsgrl@gmail.com

Foundations Arts and Learning Center

Ages: 3-5 years Contact: Tina Wambles (334) 684-6168

Kids Academy Daycare & Learning Center 1501 1/2 W. Magnolia St., 36340 Hours: Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Contact: Anna Padget (334) 684-3695

Kids Academy Too

805 N. Wilson St., 36340 Curriculum: OWL (Opening the World of Learning) and A Beka Hours: Monday-Friday 5:45 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-10 years Contact: Haley McCoy (334) 684-3738 kidsacademytoo@centurylink.net

Little Panthers

311 W. Maple Ave., 36340 Hours: Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 12 months-12 years Contact: Shannon Smallman (334) 684-3645

Geneva Head Start

603 Mulkey Ave., 36340 Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

(334) 785-5219 falcenter@aol.com

Headland Christian Preschool

700 S. Main St., 36345 Curriculum: A Beka Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-11 years Contact: Laura Nance (334) 693-3500 headlandchristianpreschool@yahoo.com

Headland Head Start Center

106 Brattle St., 36345 Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Ages: 0-5 years Contact: Betty Thomas (334) 693-2925

Midland City Bethlehem Child Development Center

416 Bethlehem Rd., 36350 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Contact: Starla Barrineau

Headland Bethlehem Baptist Church 2506 Hwy 134 E., 36345 Contact: Christy Brown

(334) 693-3000 www.bbcheadland.com

Geneva

417 Main St., 35345 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-13 years Contact: Deborah Griffin

First Baptist Church Child Development Center

(334) 673-4980 www.bbcdothan.com

Ozark Bright Futures Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Center

(334) 693-3599 kdgrandstaff@yahoo.com www.fbcheadland.com

1815 Hwy 231 North, 36360 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. / Saturday 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years

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133 Mitchell St., 36345 Contact: Kimberly Grandstaff

2019

Immanuel Child Development Center 628 S. Union Ave., 36360 Hours: 5:30 a.m.-Midnight Ages: 18 months-13 years Contact: Annie Womack (334) 445-1887

Lots of Love Home Based Learning

2080 Will Logan Rd., 36360 Hours: 24 hours Ages: 5 weeks-13 years Extra Options: Nighttime care available. Contact: Lynette Lightner (334) 733-2143

Ms. Sue’s Daycare

GUIDE Extra Options: Tutoring Contact: Tomekia Crews (334) 774-3003 bfutures2018@gmail.com brightfutureschildcenter.weebly.com

Doodlebug Academy

916 Harris Rd., 36360 Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-5 years Contact: Tammy Maes (334) 798-5311 dbugacademy@gmail.com

Heritage Christian Academy & Child Development Center

1962 Skipperville Rd., 36360 Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 4 weeks-18 years (334) 774-4447 noahsark@troycable.net

211 Periwinkle Ln, 36360 Hours: Monday-Friday 5:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. Ages: Birth-12 years Extra Options: Nighttime care available. Contact: Martha Sue Maund

(334) 774-9676

Ozark Baptist Church Learning Center

282 S. Union Ave., 36360 Curriculum: A Beka Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-5 years Meals: Rotating menu Extra Options: Full-time Daycare. 2,3,4 year old Preschool Contact: Angela Roberts (334) 774-8381 ext. 3 learningcenter@ozarkbaptist.org ozarkbaptist.org

Ozark First United Methodist CDC

167 E. Broad St., 36360 Curriculum: A Beka Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks to Pre-K, 4-5 years

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and two snacks. Contact: Sarah Szpek

(334) 445-1329 cdckids@gmail.com www.ozarkfumc.org

Ozark Head Start Center

405 Marvin Parker Rd., 36360 Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Ages: 3-5 years Contact: Makesha Boswell (334) 774-3667

Right Track Preschool

161 Floyd Ave., 36360 Hours: Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Ages: 4-5 years Contact: Shelly Kiley (334) 443-0155

Smart Start Daycare

MP Ov Vio Se Pro Alc

1164 County Rd. 238, 36360 Contact: Joyce Jones (334) 774-2261

Will-n-Hands

120 Porter Andrews Rd., 36360 Contact: Connie Willingham (334) 774-9501

Slocomb Buckles & Bows Childcare Learning Center

508 Harris Hwy (Across from Dollar General Market), 36375 Curriculum: A Beka Hours: Monday-Friday 6:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Afternoon Snack Extra Options: Full Time, Drop-ins, Mom’s Day Out, Before/After School Care. Keep up with Meals, Naps, Activities, and more, with our secure smartphone app, for your little one(s). (334) 886-0266 bucklesandbowsslocomb@gmail.com

Chatter Box

270 W. Reeves St., 36375 Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-4 years Contact: Penny Vickers (334) 792-2406

Cotton’s Child Care

1443 County Rd. 30, 36375 Hours: Monday-Friday 7:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Ages: Birth-12 years Contact: Patricia Cotton (334) 886-3083

Country Kids Child Developmet Center

1176 S. County Rd. 9, 36375 Hours: Monday-Friday 5:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Ages: 6 weeks-12 years Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and snacks. Extra Options: Drop ins. Half day care available. Contact: Charlotte Eubanks (334) 350-3923 lynnangel1065@aol.com

Taylor Building Blocks Childcare & Pre-K

1065 S. Alabama Hwy 605, 36301 Ages: 3 weeks-12 years Meals: Breakfast, lunch & snacks Extra Options: Before and after school care available. Contact: Danna Jacobs (334) 792-3083 bldgblock4@aol.com www.buildingblocksprek.com WP

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

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Captain Marvel

Apollo 11

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: D+ Sexual Content: AProfanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: B+ “You have a mission. Serve well and with honor.” So the Supreme Intelligence (Annette Bening) that rules the Kree civilization tells Vers (Brie Larson), a young fighter who is anxious to prove herself. Vers is a powerful combatant, but shadows of a past life she can’t remember haunt her dreams and she struggles to control her feelings. Vers’ commanding officer (Jude Law) includes her on their next mission which involves extracting a spy from a dangerous planet. But the mission is a set-up, the team is ambushed, and Vers is abducted by the Skrull – shapeshifting aliens at war with the Kree. Her kidnappers forcibly try to extract memories from her brain. Although they don’t get the information they are looking for, the memories start coming back, bringing emotions with them. As superhero movies go, Captain Marvel has a pretty decent (if somewhat predictable) story. It’s a bit tedious at the start with ponderous, stilted dialogue but once the characters go on the move the story picks up, and it kicks into high gear when the action reaches earth. As for content, parents will be pleased with the virtually non-existent swearing, drinking, and sexual content. The downside is that is that the film is chock-full of violence. Captain Marvel is basically an uninterrupted two hours of fighting, shooting, and blasting, with brief pauses for dialogue, the occasional joke, and (possibly) for the actors to take a breather. Given the level of violence in this movie, the PG-13 rating is merited and we do not encourage parents to take younger children to watch it.

MPAA Rating: G Overall: A Violence: A Sexual Content: A Profanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: ASitting in a capsule with only 218 cubic feet of space, 363 feet above the marshy Floridian landscape, Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, and Michael Collins prepare to make history. Once they ignite their rocket engines, they will burn 20 tons of fuel per second and produce 7.5 million pounds of thrust to break free of Earth’s orbit. This moment is familiar to anyone with an interest in space travel. However, NASA shot a lot more footage over the eight days of the Apollo 11 mission. In this riveting documentary film, director Todd Douglas Miller worked with NASA and a post-production studio to restore this footage and provide a previously unseen perspective on the mission that sent the first man to the moon. By sticking entirely to historical footage, with no added interviews or commentary, Todd Douglas Miller has created an amazingly immersive view of the mission. With Apollo 11’s G-rating, there’s virtually nothing for parents to be concerned about. That said, parts of the movie can be very loud and intense, and very young or sensitive children might be frightened. As a massive space nerd, I’d recommend this to everybody. The jaw-dropping footage of the various modules docking and ejecting in space is worth the price of the ticket on its own. However, the film is also absolutely compelling in disproving any such conspiracies and includes an incredible wealth of detail and sublime beauty in almost every scene. And hey, if nothing else, you’ll probably learn something. It’s not every day you get an educational film as gorgeous as this one. See this movie, and see it on the largest screen you can find!

Five Feet Apart

Wonder Park

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: B+ Sexual Content: BProfanity: D Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ Seventeen-year-old Stella (Haley Lu Richardson) is doing everything she possibly can to control her cystic fibrosis (CF), a genetic disease which is destroying her lungs and will eventually kill her. She conscientiously remains six feet apart from friend and fellow hospital patient, Poe (Moises Arias), lest they share their respiratory tract bacteria and worsen their diseases. Then Stella meets Will (Cole Sprouse), the handsome bad boy on the CF ward, and the two fall for each other. But Will isn’t just another CF patient: he’s been infected by a bacteria known as B. cepacia, which has removed him from the lung transplant waiting list. Getting close to Will could not only make Stella sicker; it could permanently disqualify her from the lung transplant she so desperately needs. Given this premise, I expected Five Feet Apart to be a depressing movie. That it isn’t is due to the character of Stella, a young woman of such courage, resilience, humor, and grace that she would light up any film. Stella still struggles with fear, grief, anger, rebellion, and loss, but her unfailing hopefulness not only buoys her up, it also changes Will. That’s not to say the movie isn’t sad. It ticks all the boxes in the “teen weepy” genre. Because the characters can’t get close to each other, there is no actual sex. But there is plenty of non-explicit talk about sex (straight and gay) and a scene where Stella and Will strip down to their underwear and stare yearningly at each other. Aside from the sexual content, parents will want to be aware of the 21 profanities in the movie and a scene where teens drink champagne to celebrate an 18th birthday.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: A Violence: A Sexual Content: A Profanity: A+ Alcohol / Drug Use: A June (Brianna Denski) and her mother (Jennifer Garner) have a fantastic game: they’re building an imaginary amusement park! June dreams up the rides and attractions for Wonder Park, along with a cute cast of animals who staff the park, and her mother makes them real by whispering them into Peanut’s ear, a stuffed chimpanzee who brings them to life with his magic marker. At least, that’s how it works in June’s imagination. Really, she and her family spend hours working together to build functioning models of the rides in their home. However, when June’s mom gets sick and has to go to a distant hospital for a little while, June packs up the park and spends her time worrying about everything from her mother to the tripping hazard posed by loose golf balls. Even her good friend Banky can’t snap her out of it. But when she finds the real park gates hidden in the forest, June realizes that abandoning Wonder Park has had consequences that reach further than she anticipated. This is definitely a movie geared at young kids, and the ones at the showing I attended seemed to be having a great time. Parents might have a little less to chew on, but the movie is so heartfelt and sincere that it doesn’t feel like much of a slog (helped by the fact that the runtime is under an hour and a half). I’m very surprised that this film didn’t earn a “G” rating. Despite its PG rating, Wonder Park is far and away the single most family friendly film I have ever reviewed. Not only does the film lack offensive content, it actively promotes strong messages about friendship and teamwork, as well as the importance of creativity and the seriousness of mental illness. Wonder Park provides a good time for the whole family. 37

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FamilyCalendar Monday April 1

Build a Basket (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., New Visions Market Place, 2239 Third Ave. Dothan, AL, 36301 We will furnish the baskets, grass, toys and candy to Build A Basket for Easter. Starts April 1st. Available while supplies last. (334) 446-5907 Women’s Luncheon (Free) 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m., Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce, 294 S. Painter Ave. Ozark, AL, 36360 Join us as we discuss upcoming Main Street Projects, a Business & Health Fair, our Casino Royale Annual Chamber Event, our 2019 Holiday Theme (Santa’s Workshop), and start brainstorming for the 2019 Holiday Open House. Open to the public. Lunch provided at no cost. (334) 774-9321

Tuesday April 2

Move, Groove, Read! Baby Lapsit 11:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Designed especially for babies ages 0-18 months and their grown-ups! You and your baby will sing songs, do finger-plays, and enjoy books and baby games, all intended to help little ones discover words and language. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Mystery @ Main (Free) 1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Our Mystery Book Club/Discussion group meets once a month on the first Tuesday of each month. April: “Rules of Prey” by John Sandford. (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org Slime Lab (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library Westgate, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us each month for a different squishy-icky type of gelatinous goo! All supplies will be provided and registration is REQUIRED! (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org Pinewood Derby Community Open Race ($50) 6:00 p.m. Mercedes-Benz, 2309 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, AL, 36301 Open to men, women and derby fans of all ages. Participants will experience the fun and excitement of building and racing their own Pinewood Derby car. Entry fee includes the Official Pinewood Derby Car Kit. (334) 793-7882 Jerry.Freyberg@Scouting.org THT Book Club (Free) 6:00 p.m. The Herbal Toad, 120 N. Court Square Ozark, AL, 36360 Discussing “The Silent Patient” by Alex Michaelides. All are welcome. (334) 714-9503

Wednesday April 3

43rd Annual Dothan/Houston County Special Olympics (Free) 10:00 a.m. Dothan High Track, 1236 S. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Parade of athletes, torch lighting, and opening ceremony followed by athletes competing in track and field events including the 50 M Dash, 100 M Dash, 100 M Race/Walk, Softball Throw, Standing Long Jump, Wheelchair Races, and Motor Activities. (334) 615-4743

Thursday April 4

NAF Property Sale 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Building 9213, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Open to Military ID Card holders including dependents and military retirees. The Fort Rucker Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation will host a NAF Property Sale of used equipment and furnishings on April 4-6. Items include exercise equip-

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

ment, child care furniture, boats, campers, commercialgrade restaurant equipment, and more. All items will be sold as-is. (334) 255-9807 Lego Builders Club

(Free)

3:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd. Daleville, AL, 36322 Come join us for some fun build challenges or you can enjoy some easy going freestyle building. Kids Easter Paint Party ($7 to Paint & Play; $5 Paint

Only; $2 Play Only)

3:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Kicks and Giggles Playground, 102 W. Main St. Samson, AL, 36477 There will be blank Easter baskets and wooden plaques to choose from and decorate. All ages welcome. Pajama Storytime 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 This is a fun way to enhance parent-child interaction in a nighttime setting. Wear your comfiest PJs and bring your favorite stuffed animal as we sing, dance, and read stories. Open to authorized patrons and EFMP friendly. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Pints & Paints: Easter Bunny ($35) 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Folklore Brewing, 153 Mary Lou Lane Dothan, AL, 36301 Grab your tickets fast for this hopping Easter Bunny paint class at the brewery! All supplies included and no experience necessary! Ages 21 and up. (334) 447-8796

Fine art/fine artisan/fine craft outdoor event held in conjunction with the Eufaula Heritage Association’s tour of historic homes. info@theeufaulaartscene.org www.theeufaulaartscene.org NAF Property Sale 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Building 9213, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Open to the public. The Fort Rucker Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation will host a NAF Property Sale of used equipment and furnishings on April 4-6. Items include exercise equipment, child care furniture, boats, campers, commercial-grade restaurant equipment, and more. All items will be sold as-is. (334) 255-9807 Beaver Creek Bash (Weekend Pass: $65; Single Day $35) 5:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Beaver Creek Trails, Dothan, AL Featuring 3 days of riding activities, 2 nights of live entertainment, local foods, and beverages for mountain bikers. Demos, trail rides, skills clinics, camping opportunities and more. www.samdothan.org Family Game Night 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Youth Center, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 In honor of Child Abuse Prevention Month, ACS New Parent Support Program is partnering with Fort Rucker Youth Services to host a Family Game Night. The evening will host games for all ages and the entire family. Each family participating will receive a new board game. Registration is recommended by April 3. (334) 255-3898 rucker.armymwr.com

KT’s Spring Taco Cook Off 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., KT’s Tavern, 168 S. Foster St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Every Wednesday in April watch three teams go head-to-head grilling their finest. $250 cash prize to the winner. (334) 796-7654

Foster Fest (Free) 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Downtown, Dothan, AL Live music, local street vendors, cars, bikes and jeeps and much, much more! www.dothandowntown.org

2nd Annual Hunt for Sight with Lions ($400 Entry) Tumbleweed Ranch, 1408 Co. Rd. 70 Newville, AL, 36353 Turkey Hunt for 3 days with the Lions Club to raise money for kids with low vision and pediatric cancers, followed by an awards ceremony Saturday evening with prizes and auction items. Entertainment provided by the Josh Buckley Band. www.huntforsightwithlions.com

Johnny G & Southern Love in the Pig Pen (Free) 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., The Thirsty Pig, 257 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Enjoy a night of soulful R&B music, including some classic soft rock and jazz. Family and pet friendly (outside). Animals must be leashed. (334) 701-0725 kerry@beathirstypig.com www.beathirstypig.com

Friday April 5

Drake White Concert (Advance Tickets $15; Day of Show

Youth Fundraiser/Rummage Sale 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Haven of Grace Fellowship, 19 Price St. Daleville, AL, 36322 Please come out and support our youth and find bargains at the same time.

Egg My Yard Deadline (24 Eggs - $20; 48 Eggs - $30;

Wounded Warrior Spring Hunt (General Public $25) 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Outdoor Recreation Service Center, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Wounded Warriors from across the Southeast will participate in the hunt. The hunt is open to the general public. Guides to assist the Wounded Warriors are also welcomed. (334) 255-4305 rucker.armymwr.com

Art of Yoga ($10) 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Participants will be guided through an all-levels appropriate class held in one of the museum’s galleries. Please bring your own water bottle, yoga mat, and towel (if needed). (334) 794-3871 info@wiregrassmuseum.org www. wiregrassmuseum.org Eufaula Pilgrimage Art Show 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Downtown, Eufaula, AL, 36027

Tickets $20)

9:30 p.m. The Plant, 308 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Alabama native and country music singer Drake White will perform live with his full band at downtown Dothan’s premier music venue, The Plant, along with special guest Jordan Brooker. (678) 701-6114 www.freshtix.com 100 Eggs - $50)

Let your kids wake up Easter weekend to candy-filled eggs hiding in your yard. Open to those living in Dothan, Ozark, and Headland city limits. fosteringhope334@gmail.com

Saturday April 6

Breakfast Fundraiser ($6 per Plate) 6:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Madrid Senior Center, 760 Decatur Rd. Cottonwood, AL, 36320 Cheese Grits, Scrambled Eggs, Sausage, Biscuit, Pancakes, Coffee and Juice. Dine in or Carry Out! Pre-order carryouts available. (334) 677-3435

www.wiregrassparents.com

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FamilyCalendar 4th Annual Mithell Automotive Chik-fil-A 5K & 1 Mile Fun Run (5K Registration $25; 1-Mile $15) 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Enterprise High School, 1801 Boll Weevil Circle Enterprise, AL, 36330 Find your fanciest Cow running attire, and help us raise money for the WinShape Camp held each July at Enterprise High School. Prizes for Best Dressed Cow & Best Dressed Herd. (334) 347-4747 Easter at the Farmers Market 7:00 a.m. Enterprise Farmers Market NAF Property Sale 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Building 9213, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Open to the public. The Fort Rucker Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation will host a NAF Property Sale of used equipment and furnishings on April 4-6. Items include exercise equipment, child care furniture, boats, campers, commercial-grade restaurant equipment, and more. All items will be sold as-is. (334) 255-9807 Spring Market Community Wide Yard Sale (Vendors $20) 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Downtown, Enterprise, AL, 36330 Join us downtown as a shopper or a vendor at our Early Bird Spring Market Community Wide Yard Sale! Youth Fundraiser/Rummage Sale 7:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Haven of Grace Fellowship, 19 Price St. Daleville, AL, 36322 Please come out and support our youth and find bargains at the same time. 4th Annual Walk-A-Mile in Her Shoes 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Downtown, Dothan, AL Join us to raise awareness for women impacted by sexual violence. Wear a pair of women’s high heels if you dare or your most comfy shoes. Proceeds benefit House of Ruth. (334) 673-1555 or (334) 701-6913 Beaver Creek Bash (Weekend

Pass: $65; Single Day $35)

8:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., Beaver Creek Trails, Dothan, AL Featuring 3 days of riding activities, 2 nights of live entertainment, local foods, and beverages for mountain bikers. Demos, trail rides, skills clinics, camping opportunities and more. www.samdothan.org Minuteman 5K ($20) 8:00 a.m. Westgate Trail, 501 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Help color out cancer. Join us for the Annual Minute Man 5K benefiting the Macy Easom Cancer Foundation. (334) 340-8616 shanta.m.beasley.mil@mail.mil Wounded Warrior Spring Hunt (General Public $25) 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Outdoor Recreation Service Center, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Wounded Warriors from across the Southeast will participate in the hunt. The hunt is open to the general public. Guides to assist the Wounded Warriors are also welcomed. (334) 255-4305 rucker.armymwr.com

friends, students, and colleagues to come together and make a difference in the lives of people with CF. Registration is free, but walkers are encouraged to raise funds. Your support will help accelerate innovative research and drug development, as well as advance care and advocacy. Eufaula Pilgrimage Art Show 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Downtown, Eufaula, AL, 36027 Fine art/fine artisan/fine craft outdoor event held in conjunction with the Eufaula Heritage Association’s tour of historic homes. info@theeufaulaartscene.org www.theeufaulaartscene.org Spring Market at the Monument 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Downtown, Enterprise, AL, 36330 Join us after the Farmer’s Market & Community Yard Sale for a Spring Festival! Visit all of our downtown shops & street vendors to see exciting new spring arrivals, great discounts, fun activities & yummy food! 13th Annual Crawdad and Music Festival

(Free)

9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Downtown, Ozark, AL, 36360 Grab a chair and listen to the sounds of wonderful music while biting into savory delights! Crawfish! Shrimp! Cheese Steaks! We have something for everyone! Plenty to for the children to do. (334) 774-2618 Firehouse BBQ Festival 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Donalsonville Firehouse, 300 N. Tennille Ave. Donalsonville, GA, 39845 GA BBQ Association Cookoff. Car Show (trophies awarded). Live Music! Toddler Tales: Easter Plate ($20) 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., All About Art, 100 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. (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www. allaboutartstudio.com First Saturday Family Day (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 A free come-and-go art activity for kids of all ages. All supplies are provided and no pre-registration is required. Each First Saturday will feature a different project. (334) 794-3871 info@wiregrassmuseum.org www. wiregrassmuseum.org Teen Job Fair (Free) 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Youth Center, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Meet local businesses looking to hire teens. Learn about job application processes, work permits, interview techniques and more. Open to dependents of military, DoD, and full-time contractors on Fort Rucker. Ages 1518. Parents welcome. (334) 255-2271 rucker.armymwr.com

Community Wide Yard Sale 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Highland Trails Apartments, 101 Montrose Ct. Dothan, AL, 36305 Community Yard Sale with special guests A Taste of Louisianna, A Queens Choice, and Show Treats for all your sweet tooth needs.

Easter Spring Fling & Open House (Free) 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Barbour Co. Humane Society, 99 Gilchrist Rd. Clayton, AL, 36016 Mark your calendars! The Easter Bunny will be visiting the Humane Society of Barbour County to pose for pictures with pups, cats & two-legged kiddos. We will have snacks, crafts and more. Donations welcome.

Dothan Great Strides Walk (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Westgate Recreation Center, Dothan, AL, 36303 A fantastic opportunity for family,

Tail Waggin’ Tutors 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Does your child struggle with reading? Let Center

Library help! Registered therapy dogs provide a safe space for children to practice and improve their reading skills. Space limited to first 15 registrants. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Whitney DeVane Memorial Raise the Roof 0.5K 2:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Downtown, Dothan, AL A Fun Run for the Underachievers...let’s not overdo it! Benefiting Wiregrass Habitat for Humanity. Help us, Dothan Leadership Class ‘37 to repair the roof damage done by the hurricane Michael at the Wiregrass Habitat for Humanity ReStore. dothanpoint5k@gmail.com Denim and Diamonds Scholarship Gala ($32) 7:00 p.m. - 10:30 p.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Glitz up your best denim outfit and dance to Old School music and new sounds too! Proceeds to benefit local scholarships and community service projects. www.cafservices.org

Sunday April 7

Dothan Diabetes WALK for Camp Seale Harris (Free)

1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Westgate Park, Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us at the Kiwanis Shelter at Westgate Park for music, free healthy snacks, diabetes awareness info, Team Awards and Prizes, and a 5K or 1 Mile Walk/Run to support kids with diabetes! (205) 402-0415 Beaver Creek Bash (Weekend Pass: $65; Single Day $35) 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Beaver Creek Trails, Dothan, AL Featuring 3 days of riding activities, 2 nights of live entertainment, local foods, and beverages for mountain bikers. Demos, trail rides, skills clinics, camping opportunities and more. www.samdothan.org Wounded Warrior Spring Hunt (General Public $25) 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Outdoor Recreation Service Center, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Wounded Warriors from across the Southeast will participate in the hunt. The hunt is open to the general public. Guides to assist the Wounded Warriors are also welcomed. (334) 255-4305 rucker.armymwr.com Reptile Feeding (Adults $4; Kids $3) 4:00 p.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Meet our snakes and turtles on the first Sunday of each month at 4 p.m. in the Interpretive Center. (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Monday April 8

30th Annual Alzheimer’s Conference 7:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Alzheimer’s Resource Center, 1314 Westgate Pkwy Dothan, AL, 36303 David S. Geldmacher, MS, FACP will begin the conference with information on the new frontiers in Alzheimer’s research in 2019. Robin W. Dill will follow with activities for people with Dementia. Wallace College will provide CEUs and lunch is included with admission.

Tuesday April 9

Business & Community Showcase (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Enterprise Civic Center, 2401 Neil Metcalf Rd. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Over 50 different exhibitors will be on site offering demonstrations, entertainment, employment opportunities, games, samples, door prizes and more! (334) 347-0581

Thursday April 11

Lego Wars 3:30 p.m. Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Familyoriented building competition where families composed of parents/guardians and children age 5 years and

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

FamilyCalendar up form teams to work together and turn ideas into 3-dimensional structures. Creations will be judged and prizes will be awarded. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Tail Waggin’ Tutors (Free) 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Therapy Dogs International’s Tail Waggin’ Tutors program encourages children to read by providing a non-judgmental listener and a furry friend to read to that won’t laugh at them if they make a mistake or stumble over a word, but rather lie next to the them and enjoy the story being read to them. (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org SisterAct (General Admission $5; Student Admission $3) 7:00 p.m. Wallace Community College, 1141 Wallace Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 A feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet! Recommended for ages 14 and older. (334) 556-2587 www.wallace.edu

Friday April 12

Dale County 4-H Steak Sandwich & Rib Sale 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Super Sav, 288 N. Union Ave. Ozark, AL, 36360 All proceeds support programming and supplies for the Dale County 4-H program geared to youth ages 9-18. (334) 774-2329 Army Aviation Birthday Golf Tournament (Entry

Fee: $60 Non-Member, $50 Member)

11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Silver Wings Golf Course, Combat Road Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Four-person team scramble. Shotgun start. USGA verifiable handicap required. Entry fee includes 18 holes of golf, range balls, carts, tournament meal, and prizes. (334) 255-0089 Mountain Tales Film Festival 1:00 p.m. Enterprise State Community College, 600 Plaza Dr. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Food vendors, workshops, panels, films, live music, DND tournament table, and open mic stage. Films will be shown after sundown on the quad. Q&A with filmmakers. Houston County Gives Day 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Eagle Eye Outfitters, 3535 Ross Clark Cir. Dothan, AL, 36303 A great way for individuals and companies to meet with multiple nonprofit organizations located in Houston County. Goody bags, food, and children’s activities. HoustonCtyGives@gmail.com SisterAct (General Admission $5; Student Admission $3) 7:00 p.m Wallace Community College, 1141 Wallace Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 A feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet! Recommended for ages 14 and older. (334) 556-2587 www.wallace.edu The Firefly Tales ($15) 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 This storytelling event will be presented without dinner. We will serve beverages only. Auditorium-style seating, firstcome first served. (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com

8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Enterprise High School, 1801 Boll Weevil Circle Enterprise, AL, 36330 Open to all styles and schools. Point sparring, weapons forms and empty hand forms. Cash prizes (334) 475-3899 Horsemanship Spotlight Show (Entry Fee $50-$80) 8:00 a.m. Southern Cross Ranch, 6215 S. County Rd. 55 Headland, AL, 36345 Come show off your partnership with your horse and get rewarded in prizes and cash awards. Divisions: Youth, Novice, Non-Pro, and Green Horse. mirka@southerncrossranch.net www.southerncrossranch.net 43rd Annual Dothan City Track Meet (Free) 9:00 a.m. Dothan High Track, 1236 S. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Ages 7 to 14. Participants must live in Houston County. Copy of birth certificate required. Door prizes. First 150 children registered will receive a t-shirt. (334) 615-3720 80s Totally Rad 5K (Students Under 18 $20; Adults $25; Family of 4 $60, $10 Each Additional )

9:00 a.m. Abundant Life Church, Samson, AL Dress up in your gnarly 80s wear. Like totally rock those side ponies, sweatbands, neon tees and spandex; whatever screams 80s! Run or walk, either way, it’ll be happen’en! Proceeds benefit the Powerhouse Youth program’s summer retreat. Beacon Spring Championship Golf Tournament

($50 per player)

9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., River Oaks Golf Course, 203 River Oaks Rd. Geneva, AL, 36340 3-Man Scramble. All proceeds will go to benefit the Beacon College and Career Ministries at El Bethel Baptist Church in Chancellor, Alabama. (334) 400-6966 Fort Rucker Fun Run & Resiliency Fair (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., Fortenberry-Colton PFC, 4605 Andrews Ave. Fort Rucker, AL, 36362 5K fun run and fun activities for the entire family. Participants can run or walk, or just stop by to visit the numerous Resiliency Fair booths. The event promotes resiliency for our Fort Rucker community and will showcase information to improve physical, mental, spiritual, and social well-being. Open to the public. (334) 255-2296 Piney Woods Arts & Crafts Festival (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Enterprise State Community College, 600 Plaza Dr. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Original art and crafts by approximately 100 artists, children’s fun center, food and entertainment, student art display, and Civil War Living Display. Car and Truck Show.

Spring Farmers Market 9:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Dothan Nurseries, 1300 Montgomery Hwy. Dothan, AL, 36303 Fresh veggies, honey, handmade goods and more. marketatdothan.locallygrown.net

Saturday April 13

Cartwheel-a-thon 2.0 ($10 per person) 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., AEGA, 210 Graceland Dr. Dothan, AL, 36305 Set a goal and find supporters to donate for every cartwheel, forward roll or handstand walk you can do! Prizes for most skills completed and top fundraisers. Prizes and giveaways, too! Every participant gets a dri-fit Live United t-shirt. Benefits Wiregrass United Way. (334) 792-9661

2nd Annual Wiregrass Open Martial Arts Championship (Entry Fee $60; Spectactors $10, Ages 8 & Under Free)

Children’s Festival 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Festival Fields, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Enjoy a Petting Zoo, Easter Egg Hunts, Arts & Crafts, Games, Ice Cream, Inflatables, Obstacle Courses, Karaoke, Fairy Take Skits, and Photos with the Easter Bunny! (334) 255-1749 rucker.armymwr.com

PCA Rodeo 7:30 p.m. Dale County Ag-Plex, Hwy 123 Ozark, AL, 36360

14th Annual Heritage Farm Day & Trail Ride 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Maddox Farm, 278 Holland Rd. Newton, AL, 36352 Farm demonstrations, wagon rides, kids activities, and more. BBQ lunch. Live music. www.themaddoxfarm.com

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

Cowboy Days 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Broken Horn Ranch & Town, 102 Fairview Rd. Marianna, FL, 32448 Gun fight shows, and living history at its best. Come on y’all to Broken Horn where we will take you back in time to the Old West. (850) 557-1087 Easter Egg Bash 10:00 a.m. 2 Peas in a Pod, 136 E. Slocomb St. Slocomb, AL, 36375 Crafts, face painting, Easter photo booth, snacks, music and Easter egg hunt with lots of goodies and 6 hidden pea pods with gift certificates and discounts. Easter Egg-a-Palooza (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., Watermark Church, 103 Elmer Rd. Ashford, AL, 36312 Snacks. Egg Hunt. Easter Story. Ages 6 weeks-5th grade. (334) 899-3624 www.watermark.org Spring Fling - Plastic Free Easter ($19.95 Adults, $13.95 Children)

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Zooworld, 9008 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL, 32407 Join the ZooWorld team for a spring celebration WITHOUT the harmful disposable plastics. Each child will receive FREE reusable drink products, participate in lady bug releases, and meet baby zoo animals. (850) 230-1243 info@zooworldpcb.com zooworldpcb.com FBC Easter Egg Hunt 10:30 a.m. First Baptist Church of Slocomb, 225 N. Dalton St. Slocomb, AL, 36375 Join us in the Fellowship Hall for our annual Easter Egg Hunt. We will have pizza, a craft, hunt eggs, and share the amazing story of “The Very Best Morning.” Popcorn and a Movie (Free) 12:45 p.m. - 2:30 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Free kid-friendly movie with popcorn and a refreshing beverage! (334) 774-5480 www.odcpl.com Panama City Beach Beer Festival 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Fishale Taphouse and Grill, 7715 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL, 32407 Bay County’s longest running Craft Beer festival features over 200 craft beers and ciders. We have some new add-ons this year to include food trucks and the Newby’s Bourbon corner. A portion of the proceeds from this event will go to All Things Panama City Beach Outreach, a local 501c3 that was formed after Hurricane Michael to help the Bay community. www.visitpanamacitybeach.com SisterAct (General Admission $5; Student Admission $3) 2:00 p.m. Wallace Community College, 1141 Wallace Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 A feel-good musical comedy smash based on the hit 1992 film that has audiences jumping to their feet! Recommended for ages 14 and older. (334) 556-2587 www.wallace.edu A Down Home Afternoon 3:00 p.m. Cottonwood, AL The parade will begin at 3pm followed by activities at Bruner Park at 4pm. There will be venders, entertainment, and activities for the kids. (334) 691-2671 Former “Miss Slocomb” Reception 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Slocomb High School, 591 S. County Rd. 9 Slocomb, AL, 36375 The Slocomb Young Women’s League would like to honor all former “Miss Slocomb” title holders at this years city pageant. Reminisce on your memories before this year’s pageant at a small reception. 2019 Fish, Forestry, Wildlife, and Outdoors Events (Pre-Registration $10; At the Door $15)

www.wiregrassparents.com

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7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Alabama-Florida Council, Boy Scouts, 6801 W. Main St. Dothan, AL, 36305 Learn Bee Keeping, Orienteering, CPR, Canoeing, Rifle/Bow shooting, Soap making, Dutch Oven Cooking, Blacksmithing and Welding. Open to the public. (334) 389-1563 or (334) 494-3617 lifecoach@hbce.org or kurt@custom-crafters.net Fight the Gray 5K Color Run

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7:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m., Westgate Softball Complex, Dothan, AL, 36303 Proceeds from this year’s run will go to the Wiregrass Chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI). Pre-registration ends March 29, and those who are pre-registered are guaranteed a race t-shirt. We offer groups of five or more a discount! (334) 673-1488 fightthegray5k@gmail.com www. fightthegray5k.com Food & Fancy (Tickets $25; Table of 8 $150) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Windmill Station, 1369 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Music, dancing, food, a silent auction, and a cash bar. (334) 794-9775 Spanish Trail Opry ($15) 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Spanish Trail Playhouse, 680 2nd St. Chipley, FL, 32428 This show full of traditional country music features some of the areas best musicians and the Spanish Trail Playhouse band. (850) 635-9113 www.spanishtrailplayhouse.com

The Firefly Tales ($15) 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 This storytelling event will be presented without dinner. We will serve beverages only. Auditorium-style seating, firstcome first served. (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com PCA Rodeo 7:30 p.m Dale County Ag-Plex, Hwy 123 Ozark, AL, 36360

Sunday April 14

Horsemanship Spotlight Show (Entry Fee $50-$80) 8:00 a.m. Southern Cross Ranch, 6215 S. County Rd. 55 Headland, AL, 36345 Come show off your partnership with your horse and get rewarded in prizes and cash awards. Divisions: Youth, Novice, Non-Pro, and Green Horse. mirka@southerncrossranch.net www.southerncrossranch.net Cowboy Days 10:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Broken Horn Ranch & Town, 102 Fairview Rd. Marianna, FL, 32448 Gun fight shows, and living history at its best. Come on y’all to Broken Horn where we will take you back in time to the Old West. (850) 557-1087 Spring Fling - Plastic Free Easter ($19.95 Adults, $13.95 Children)

center, food and entertainment, student art display, and Civil War Living Display. Car and Truck Show. Egg Quest (Free) 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, 5130 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Visitors will use clues to identify colorful wooden eggs hidden in the individual gardens within DABG. The goal is to identify all the eggs on the entry form and return it, making the children eligible for Easter basket drawings. Other activities are planned for that afternoon. (334) 793-3224 www.dabg.com Pontoon Boat Tour ($5) 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA, 39823 Come soak up the springtime sun on our pontoon boat. Enjoy a leisure tour of Lake Kolomoki. Learn some of the park history, facts about the animals that call the park home and other questions you may have. Light snacks will be for sale. Meet at the boat ramp. (229) 724-2150

Monday April 15

Hardee’s Pro Classic 10:00 a.m. Westgate Tennis Complex, 810 Recreation Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 The Hardee’s Pro Classic will take place in Dothan, AL for the 19th consecutive year. It is a USTA Pro Circuit women’s event. See professional tennis players from all over the world compete for the $80,000 purse. Play begins on Monday (4/15) and runs through Sunday, (4/21). www.HardeesProClassic.com BASBO Bunco Night ($25) 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., St. Luke UMC, 201 Heath St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Join the AL/GA Wiregrass Operation Christmas Child Area Team for its first time ever BASBO BUNCO NIGHT. Build a ShoeBox online for $25. Light refreshments.

Tuesday April 16

Abbeville Historic Walking Tour (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Bethune Kennedy House, 300 Kirkland St. Abbeville, AL, 36310 Walk at your own pace as you tour historic buildings a see various collections of historical artifacts. (334) 585-2273

Tuesdays of each month! Each meeting begins with a general discussion of books read by attendees followed by a guided discussion of the month’s selection. Each month’s book is chosen at the previous month’s meeting. (334) 774-5480 Earth Day Craft (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Children ages 3-11 are invited to take part in a special crafting session to celebrate Earth Day. Light refreshments will be served. Space is limited to the first 35 children registered. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Adult Book Club (Free) 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Come discover a new favorite author or genre and be part of our engaging discussion. Open to authorized patrons ages 18+ and is EFMP friendly. Light refreshments will be served. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

Wednesday April 17

22nd Annual Community-Wide Prayer Breakfast ($15; Corporate Tables $150)

7:30 a.m. - 9:00 a.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Writer and speaker Sherri Burgess will be the guest speaker. Author of the book Bronner: A Journey To Understand, Burgess is the wife of Rick Burgess, co-host of “The Rick and Bubba Show” radio program. Ticket deadline April 10. (334) 792-5138 Taco ‘bout English (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Troy University-Dothan, Malone Hall, 500 University Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Enjoy a Taco Bar while getting some information about becoming an English Major. Troy U Alumni and English Faculty will talk about their experiences and answer questions. Scholarship opportunity available. tacoboutenglish.eventbrite.com Slime Lab (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us each month for a different squishy-icky type of gelatinous goo! All supplies will be provided and registration is REQUIRED! (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Easter Egg Hunt (Free) 11:00 a.m. 11:30 a.m., DothanHouston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us for our annual Easter egg hunt. We will have tons of eggs, you just bring your basket. This year we will have two age groups- one egg hunt for toddlers (up to age 3) and an egg hunt for children ages 4-8. Please arrive early. Once all eggs have been found, the hunt will be over. Registration is not required, but space limited. (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Taco ‘bout English (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Troy University-Dothan, Malone Hall, 500 University Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Enjoy a Taco Bar while getting some information about becoming an English Major. Troy U Alumni and English Faculty will talk about their experiences and answer questions. Scholarship opportunity available. tacoboutenglish.eventbrite.com

HIPPY Group Meeting (Free) 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., Wiregrass Boys & Girls Club, 457 S. Alice St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Children will engage with home visitors in developmentally appropriate character development activities while parents attend a Parent Cafe to discuss and learn. April’s topic is Hope. Snacks are provided before activities begin. All counties are welcome. (334) 792-6255

Book Club (Free) 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Ozark-Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Everyone is invited to join us for a lively discussion on popular books on the third

Alive Block Party and GLOW Hunt 6:30 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Glory to Him Church, 6193 Andrews Ave. Ozark, AL, 36360 Join us for food, music, fun, and inflatables! Block party for adults and GLOW Hunt for PreK and Elementary kids! Flashlights and baskets not provided. (334) 774-7677

Thursday April 18

Look What’s Bloomin’ (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Lucy Hilton Maddox Memorial Library, 11880 Columbia St. Blakely, GA, 39823 Visitors can enjoy a light lunch and check out the latest in

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

FamilyCalendar gardening plants, decorations and ideas. Local crafts vendors and information from various agencies share what services are bloomin’ for the public. (229) 723-3079 Golf ‘Fore’ Education Tournament (Entry Fee: $500

Four-Person Team, $125 Individual)

12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Highland Oaks Golf Course, 904 Royal Pkwy Dothan, AL, 36305 Lunch. Golf. Prizes. Proceeds benefit WCC student scholarships. (334) 556-2626 wallacefoundation@wallace.edu wallace.edu/golf4edu WWII History: Doolittle Raid (Free) 12:00 p.m. Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Led by historian, Ken Tilley. Open to the public. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Lego Builders Club (Free) 3:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd. Daleville, AL, 36322 Come join us for some fun build challenges or you can enjoy some easy going freestyle building. Lego Club (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Registration is not required, but space is limited. (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org Mad Scientist Workshop (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 For this science and art-themed event, participants will be able to make their own shrinky dinks! Ages 7-12. Limited to the first 20 registrants. All supplies provided. Open to authorized patrons and EFMP friendly. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Art After Hours (Members Free; NonMembers $5)

5:30 p.m. 8:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Event to celebrate the opening of new exhibitions. Come wander the galleries, have a drink, and take in the new art on display. You might even have a chance to speak with one of the exhibiting artists or try your hand at an in-gallery activity. Light snacks will be served, and drinks will be available for purchase. (334) 794-3871 info@wiregrassmuseum.org www. wiregrassmuseum.org Teen Book Club (Free) 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Join us and discover your new favorite author. Light refreshments will be served. Open to authorized patrons. EFMP Friendly. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

Friday April 19

Egg My Yard (30 Eggs $25; 50 Eggs $45; 100 Eggs $90) Dothan, AL Want to wake up to Easter bunny fun without the work of filling and hiding the eggs? Let us egg your yard! Most major neighborhoods within Dothan city limits included. All proceeds will benefit the Blayne Hardy Barfield Foundation. bhbfoundation.org

Saturday April 20

Easter at the Swamp (Adults $10; Offroad Toys $10; Kids 12 & Under Free)

8:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., The Swamp OffRoad Park, 3690 Mobile Swamp Rd. Chipley, FL, 32428 Children’s egg hunt at 11:00 a.m. Adult hunt on the trails shortly after.

Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

Food and music. (850) 326-8333 or (850) 326-5713 theswampoffroadpark.com Rabbit Football Camp (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.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. Drinks and small meal provided. Volunteers and donations needed. (334) 547-5120 rabbitfootballcamp@gmail.com Young Eagles Spring Rally (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Enterprise Municipal Airport, 867 Aviation Blvd Enterprise, AL, 36330(804) 381-1244 plenglishjr@gmail.com Flower Pot Painting ($20) 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Arts & Crafts Center, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Paint a flower pot in honor of Earth Day! Cost includes a pot to paint, soil, and a marigold flower. Supplies are limited so reserve your spot in advance. (334) 255-9020 rucker.armymwr.com Get Green Alabama Marketplace (Free) 9:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Dothan Nurseries, 1300 Montgomery Hwy. Dothan, AL, 36303 Purchase fresh, locally-grown produce. Relax to live acoustic music with guitarist David Martin and sample heart-healthy foods and drinks. On-site workshops with Market at Dothan and the The Alabama Cooperative Extension System. getgreenalabama@gmail.com Sacred Harp Sing ($4 Adults; $3 Kids) 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Singing school at 9:30 a.m. Sing begins at 10:00 a.m. Dinner served 12:00-1:00 p.m. Visitors encouraged to bring traditional covered dish. www.landmarkparkdothan.com Easter Egg Hunt/Touch a Truck ($5) 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA, 39823 All ages are invited to hunt for more than 4,000 prize-filled eggs and visit with the Easter bunny. Emeregncy equipment vehicles, pontoon boat rides, face painting, and food vendors. (229) 724-2150 The Wiseguy Kitchen Show (Dinner & Show $55, Show Only $30)

6:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Laketown Wharf Resort, 9902 S. Thomas Dr. Panama City Beach, FL, 32408 A Broadway-style show with amazing talent filled with singing, comedy, music, and cooking. Featuring chefturned-actor, Vincent Fiore. www.visitpanamacitybeach.com

Sunday April 21

Easter Sunrise Service (Free) 6:30 a.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Interdenominational service held at the gazebo. Limited bench seating available. In case of rain, service will be held in the church. www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Thursday April 25

10th Annual Wiregrass Angel House Golf Tournament 10:00 a.m. Dothan National Golf Club, 7410 U.S. Hwy 231 Dothan, AL, 36301 Support those in our area who have been affected by violence! Lunch provided at 11. Shotgun start at 12. Seabreeze Jazz Festival (General Admission: 4 Days $289, 3 Days $239, Thursday/Friday Only $110, Saturday Only

$130) Aaron Bessant Park, 600 Pier Park Dr. Panama City

Beach, FL, 32413 Festival combines the top national smooth jazz artists with a full weekend of fun, sun, great beaches, and good times. www.seabreezejazzfestival.com

Friday April 26

Blue Ribbon Day of Hope 11:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Angel of Hope Statue, Westgate Park Dothan, AL, 36303 Please join the Southeast Alabama Child Advocacy Center as we honor and remember the children who were lost to abuse and neglect. Open to the public. SandJam (General Admission 3 Day Pass $129, VIP 3 Day Pass $319, 3 Day Parking Pass $40)

3:00 p.m. - 11:30 p.m., M.B. Miller County Pier, 12213 Pier Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL, 32413 3 days of Rock music, Chill vibes, and beautiful sunsets! sandjamfest.com

Under the Oaks (Free) 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Court Square, Headland, AL, 36345 The Square will be filled with music, food and more. Join us the 4th Friday of April through September for a fun evening out in Downtown Headland’s beautiful Square. Operation Megaphone Lock-In ($10) 8:00 p.m. Youth Center, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 The Youth Center will hold its annual overnight “Operation Megaphone Lock-In” in celebration of Month of the Military Child. The Lock-in will enable the youth to interact with their peers at other military bases using social media platforms. The Lock-In will officially end at 7 a.m. on April 27. This event is for CYS members, ages 11-18 and in grades 6-12. Guests are welcome! (334) 255-9638 rucker.armymwr.com Seabreeze Jazz Festival (General Admission: 4 Days $289, 3 Days $239, Thursday/Friday Only $110, Saturday Only $130) Aaron Bessant Park, 600 Pier Park Dr. Panama City

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$35; Toddler Dash $5)

7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Culpepper Park, Hwy 85 Daleville, AL, 36322 In honor of Harley Piper to raise awareness of Sudden Unexplained Death in Childhood (SUDC). Refreshments, kid’s activities, 5K and 1 Mile race/walk, Toddler Dash, and raffle. Proceeds go to the SUDC Foundation. Youth Fishing Tournament (Entry Fee $15) 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Parcours Lake, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Open to the public youth ages 3-15. Live bait is permitted, no minnows. Prizes will be awarded to 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place winners. Bait, snacks and a few fishing gear items will be available for purchase the morning of the event. Please bring cash for purchases. (334) 255-4305 rucker.armymwr.com Basketball Skills Camp 7:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Youth Center, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Participants will learn a variety of basketball skills from local coaches and referee skills from the Greater Enterprise Basketball Association (GEBA). Open to the public. Grades 6-12. Lunch provided. Registration required. (334) 255-0960 rucker.armymwr.com Funky Fun Run (Donations) 8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park, 1715 Whatley Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 An un-timed, zero competition Walk event so ANYONE can join. Proceeds benefit the Autism Society of Alabama. crop24seven@yahoo.com

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FamilyCalendar Superhero 5K Run/Walk to Prevent Child Abuse

(Before April 5th: 5K with shirt $25; 5K w/o shirt $20; Fun Run with shirt $15; Fun Run w/o shirt $10 / After April 5th: 5K $25, Fun Run $15)

8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Westgate Trail, 501 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Games, inflatables, prizes, costume contest. Dress up as your favorite SUPERHERO as we race to raise awareness of child abuse and services available for victims in our community. Bring your four-legged friend for a special pet costume contest! (334) 671-1966 www.exchangecap.org Back the Blue Appreciation Run 9:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Ashford Police Department, 519 Broadway Ave. Ashford, AL, 36312 We’ll be visiting area police Department’s and letting them know how much we appreciate them! We have two raffle items a cooler and a thin blue line Flag. All proceeds will go to the Dothan Police Foundation Fund to be donated to area police departments. jeeptribeusa@yahoo.com www.jeeptribeusa.com TroyFest 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Downtown, Troy, AL As always, a wonderful selection of art, food, entertainment and activities will be offered for people of all ages. 11th Annual Electeds-Media Softball Game for Wiregrass Food Bank 10:30 a.m. Colby Bottoms Field, 797 W. Selma St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Come join the fun as the Media and Elected Officials go at it again for Softball supremecy and all for a good cause! Admission is non perishable food or a donation for the Wiregrass Area Food Bank. 2nd Annual King of the Wing (Team Entry Fee $50;

Spectator/Tasting Entry $10; Kids Under 10 Free)

12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Waddlington Park, Foster Street Dothan, AL, 36303 Join Dothan Area Young Professionals at the 2nd Annual King of the Wing competition! Teams of two are invited to compete to prove whose hot wings are the best in Dothan. dothanyp@gmail.com

smooth jazz artists with a full weekend of fun, sun, great beaches, and good times. www.seabreezejazzfestival.com

Sunday April 28

SandJam (General Admission 3 Day Pass $129, VIP 3 Day Pass $319, 3 Day Parking Pass $40)

12:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m., M.B. Miller County Pier, 12213 Pier Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL, 32413 3 days of Rock music, Chill vibes, and beautiful sunsets! sandjamfest.com 4th Annual Butterfly Fling ($10) 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Live butterfly release, arts & crafts, games, and more. Proceeds benefit Chrysalis Home for Girls. (334) 638-5959 chrysalis.dothan@gmail.com

Adult Skate ($10 admission; $2 standard skate rental; $3 speed/inline rental)

7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Fun Zone Skate Center, 465 Westgate Pkwy Dothan, AL, 36303 Dust off your old skates (or borrow ours) and join us for Sunday Funday! DJ Smoke playing your favorite skate jams from the 70’s, 80’s & 90’s. (334) 678-7529 www.funzoneskatecenterdothan.com

Seabreeze Jazz Festival (General Admission: 4 Days $289, 3 Days $239, Thursday/Friday Only $110, Saturday Only $130) Aaron Bessant Park, 600 Pier Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL, 32413 Festival combines the top national smooth jazz artists with a full weekend of fun, sun, great beaches, and good times. www.seabreezejazzfestival.com

Tuesday April 30

Forgotten Alabama with Glenn Wills (Free) 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., McGregor-McKinney Public Library, 101 E. Fulton St. Hartford, AL, 36344 Glenn Wills takes us on his journey across Alabama as he documents the remnants of Alabama’s past. Glenn has visited all of Alabama’s 67 counties, logged over 40,000 miles and has taken over 25,000 photographs. SEACT’s Mama Won’t Fly ($19

SandJam (General Admission 3 Day Pass $129, VIP 3 Day

Pass $319, 3 Day Parking Pass $40)

12:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m., M.B. Miller County Pier, 12213 Pier Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL, 32413 3 days of Rock music, Chill vibes, and beautiful sunsets! sandjamfest.com

Dale County Relay for Life 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Court Square, Ozark, AL, 36360 Bring the family and celebrate with Dale County Cancer Survivors, Teams, and those who fight to find a cure and raise money, and awareness, for programs offered by The American Cancer Society. (334) 714-8942 megan.kirkland@cancer.org

Adult; $17 Senior)

7:00 p.m. - 9:15 p.m., Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 An outrageously hilarious race against the clock begins when Savannah Sprunt Fairchild Honeycutt agrees to get her feisty mother all the way from Alabama to California in time for her brother’s wedding. Appropriate for general audiences. (334) 794-0400 seact@seact.com www.seact.com

Parent Date Night ($5/hour) 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., School Age Center, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Mark your calendar and get your child or children registered for your night out! Cost must be prepaid, no refunds. Participants must be a Child & Youth Services (CYS) registered member. (334) 255-2262 rucker.armymwr.com

Wednesday May 1

Red, White, and Que Spring Fling ($25) 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Bella’s Ballroom, 191 N. Foster St. Dothan, AL, 36303 All proceeds benefit the Scholarship Program of DAC of Delta Sigma Theta and KBB of Omega Psi Phi. Casual spring attire. (334) 547-4055 or (334) 379-5276

SEACT’s Mama Won’t Fly ($19 Adult; $17 Senior) Details April 30. (334) 794-0400 seact@seact.com www.seact.com

Thursday May 2 Friday May 3

Spring Plantin’ ($12) 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Pioneer Museum of Alabama, 248 Hwy. 231 N. Troy, AL, 36081 A celebration of new beginnings and old ways. Enjoy the Museum’s grounds as they come to life with plants and people. Our annual

Spring Festival highlites agriculture, planting, historical trades and good, old-fashioned pioneer fun. SEACT’s Mama Won’t Fly ($19 Adult; $17 Senior) Details April 30. (334) 794-0400 seact@seact.com www.seact.com

Saturday May 4

2019 Wiregrass Kidney Walk/5K 7:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Westgate Trail, 501 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Live Entertainment, Door Prizes, Food, and a Fabulous Children’s activities Area! (334) 547-8467 lisab@alkidney.org 17th Annual Boll Weevil 100 (Registration - $15-$45) 7:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 217 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Great for the serious rider or a family outing. The Bike rides start at 7:30am fully supported with vehicles and SAG stops. The Runs start at 8:00am The 10K and 3K are electronic timed. All profit will be used for charitable work in Alabama. (334) 477-3348 treasurer@enterpriselionsclub.com www.EnterpriseLionsClub.com NRA Women on Target ($25) 7:30 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Tri-State Gun Club, County Rd. 437 Daleville, AL, 36322 Women only event. Preregistration required. Cost includes lunch, classroom instruction, use of firearms (pistol, revolver, shotgun, rifle), targets, and ammunition. (334) 722-9090 tsgc.pres@gmail.com www.nrainstructors.org Chautauqua Winery’s Spring Festival (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Chautauqua Vineyards & Winery, 364 Hugh Adams Rd. DeFuniak Springs, FL, 32435 Join Us For A Day Of Fun In The Sun! FREE Wine Tastings, Art & Craft Vendors, and Music. www.chautauquawinery.com Spring Plantin’ ($12) Details May 3. Touch a Truck ($7 Adults; $5 Kids) 10:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 A truly unique event that offers children a hands-on opportunity to explore a variety of heavy equipment, trucks and machinery while also meeting the people who build, protect and serve our community. Parent supervision is required and cameras are highly recommended! www.landmarkparkdothan.com Town of Ashford Womanless Beauty Pageant 4:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., Ashford High School, 602 Church St. Ashford, AL, 36312 The 2019 Ashford Queens and the Ashford Cheerleaders are teaming up for a fundraiser this year. All proceeds will go to a new float for the Queens and a new Mascot uniform for the Cheerleaders. Come and enjoy the show, or if you are brave enough send in a registation form! You could be our 2019 Miss-ter Ashford!

Sunday May 5

Miss Angel 2019 Pageant (Entry Fee $125) 1:00 p.m. Dothan Opera House, 115 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us in our 14th year celebrating sisterhood and service! We crown queens in all age divisions to represent the Wiregrass Angel House. Compete in photogenic, casual wear, pageant dress, and interview. www.missangelpageant.com

Please send your calendar events to ashton@wiregrassaparents.com. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

CB: Kids can pick up on your energy, no matter how much you try to hide it. Kids are typically way smarter than we think they are. WP: What’s something you hope your kids learn from you? CB: I hope my kids have learned from me that with hard work, a positive attitude, dedication, and with God all things are possible. I also hope they’ve learned that if you work hard in life at an early age, your life will be easier in your older years.

Cameka Beard

WP: Now that your own kids are getting older, how has your relationship with them changed? CB: Now that my kids are older, we have a very open relationship. I’m very honest and upfront with them. When they are approached with different situations, I try to allow them to make their own decisions or come up with their own conclusions. I’m more of a guide for them as opposed to a teacher now. My children are 19 and 14 years of age and I’m confident in how I raised them. So now, one of my techniques is to sit back and guide them, because they need to know how to solve situations on their own. I believe that’s one of the best ways to prepare them for the real world.

WP: You’re the director of one of Dothan’s biggest daycares, and before that you worked at its sister facility in Enterprise. Is working with children something you always wanted to do?

WP: You’re one of the most positive people I know. How do you find reasons to smile?

CB: Working with children is not something I always wanted to do, but I knew early on that I love working with people, and I loved doing the small things that made people the happiest!

CB: Thanks! I look at life as if everything happens for a reason. I try to do my best with everything that I do, and if for some reason I fall short, I learn from it and move on. I try not to dwell in things that I have no control over! I’m naturally happy, because I sincerely believe that I’m living in the purpose that God has prepared for me.

WP: Have you found that your experiences working in daycare have impacted your parenting style?

WP: What’s something you’re looking forward to this spring/summer? CB: I’m looking forward to taking my kids on vacation. We all love waterparks, so we’re planning on visiting different parks in different cities!

CB: Working in a learning center has definitely impacted my parenting style. It has made me very open to try new techniques with my children. As we all know, all children are not the same.

WP: If you could give your younger self any advice, what would it be?

WP: Speaking of…how would you describe your parenting style?

CB: My advice to my younger self would be, don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice. I would also say that your best is always good enough!

CB: My parenting style changes as my kids get older. I’m very open and creative. I’m definitely a parent who says what I mean and means what I say. I do, however, give my children options sometimes and once they make a decision, we stick with it!

WP: Do you have any advice for new moms?

WP: Working with so many children during the week in addition to having kids of your own can be exhausting. How do you recharge?

CB: My advice for new moms is to stop and breathe when times get hard. It’s okay to ask for help or advice. I’ve also learned that kids need attention and a lot of it. So, stop and pay attention to the little details and it will make a world of a difference. I will also say to new moms that what works for someone else may not work for you. Your child is uniquely made and is designed just for you. Stay encouraged and you got this!

CB: When my kids were smaller, I had a schedule for them. I strongly recommend having a schedule. Their bedtime was at 8:30 p.m. Now that they’re older I give them some of the responsibilities that are in our household. WP: What’s something you’ve learned from kids? Your own or those you work with. Wiregrass Parents I April 2019

Cameka Beard is the director of Kiddie Care Learning Center in Dothan. She has two children, Dakeria (19) and Christian Ross (14).