Wiregrass Parents Magazine August 2018 by KeepSharing

RAISING AWARENESS OF THE THREAT OF ANTIBIOTIC RESISTANCE AND THE IMPORTANCE OF APPROPRIATE ANTIBIOTIC PRESCRIBING AND USE IN THE COMMUNITIES, IN HEALTHCARE FACILITIES, AND ON THE FARM

• At least 80 million antibiotic prescriptions each year are unnecessary. • Antibiotics are only needed for treating certain infections caused by bacteria. • Antibiotics do not work on viruses such as colds and flu. • Antibiotics are not always the answer. Everyone can help improve antibiotic prescribing and use. • S tay healthy and keep others healthy by washing hands, covering cough, staying home when sick and getting recommended vaccines.

Viruses or Bacteria: What’s got you sick? Common Condition:

Common Cause Bacteria

Bacteria or Virus

Virus

Are antibiotics needed?

Strep throat

✔

YES

Whooping cough

✔

YES

Urinary tract infection

✔

YES

Sinus infection

✔

MAYBE

Middle ear infection

✔

MAYBE

Bronchitis/chest cold (in otherwise healthy children and adults)*

✔

NO*

Common cold/runny nose

✔

Sore throat (except strep)

✔

Flu

✔

*Studies show that in otherwise healthy children and adults, antibiotics for bronchitis won’t help you feel better.

www.cdc.gov/antibiotic-use

August2018 24

Volume 1 Number 1

Columns

From the Publisher Ashton Wright

Back to School Tips

After School Activities

Find 15 genius tips to prepare your family for back to school, plus ideas from local moms.

Our detailed listing offers a variety of after school enrichment with registration dates.

John Rosemond

20 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Living With Children

Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

When Kids Reject Sports

Mom to Mom

Ideas for keeping kids active when they avoid team sports.

Julie Gonzalez gives us a glimpse into her life, plus her best advice for new mothers.

Parenting Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Teens Mark Gregston

Departments On The Cover Hudson Caddell is a seventh grader at

Bits and Pieces 8

Providence Christian School in Dothan.

School Bits

His favorite subject is literature. The 12

year old likes playing basketball with his dad, is in the PGA Junior Golf League, and on the PCS Junior High football

Family Calendar 43

team. Hudson is the son of David and

Movie Reviews

Misti Caddell.

Mom to Mom 1

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FromThePublisher The Area’s Go-To Resource for Families

It’s finally here...the first issue of Wiregrass Parents, and I couldn’t be more excited to share this resource with all of you! After nearly nine years of working for WTVY and three-and-ahalf years as a mommy, I know how badly the Wiregrass area needs this magazine. We picked a wonderful time of year to launch, so enjoy our Back to School Issue! Seeing the aisles of school supplies and my friends’ social media posts about summer coming to an end sure brings back memories of shopping with my mom, granny, and brothers. Of course, my daughter isn’t quite old enough for all the hustle-and-bustle of back to school, but she does attend a phenomenal daycare that is regimented like a school day. So although we don’t have the traditional back-to-school season in our house just yet, there is a definite difference between summer and the rest of the year. Summer means more Fridays off and more time spent outside. The second half of this summer was my first not working in a traditional office setting. Without the daily deadlines of a television newsroom, we were able to spend more time with family and enjoy multiple trips to the lake and beach. Our daycare follows the same schedule as Dothan City Schools, so our summer “break” ended on August 8th. With everything getting back on a more scheduled track this month, we’re having to readjust just like families with school-age children. Thankfully our feature article, 15 Genius Tips for Back to School, offers good advice to manage the school year with ease, from meal planning to staying on top of extra-curricular activities. Speaking of extra-curriculars, you’re definitely going to want to check out our huge After School Activities Guide. It’s full of options for every type of child, from dance and gymnastics to martial arts, horseback riding lessons, swimming, sports, and clubs. I’m also very excited to share with you our Family Calendar. It’s the only calendar of its kind in the Wiregrass, and I guarantee you’ll be referring to it all month long! It has events for the whole family and outings that would be perfect for a momand-dad date night. Putting this first issue together was truly a labor of love. I hope you’ll all love it as much as I do, and keep reading every month as we continue to share the best community calendar in the Wiregrass, advice and tips from parenting experts, local school news, our monthly guides, and so much more. Here’s to smooth sailing through these first months of school and a phenomenal year.

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 Mark Gregston Christa Melnyk Hines Sarah Lyons Dave Ramsey John Rosemond Gerry Paige Smith

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 August 2018

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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LivingWithChildren by John Rosemond

Our Kids Won’t Stop Fighting Q: We have a boy, 6, and a girl, 9, who fight constantly about everything under the sun. My husband and I have a good marriage. We hardly ever have a serious disagreement about anything, so it’s hard for us to understand what has led to our kids’ inability to get along. In any case, their fighting has become very draining, especially to me because I homeschool and am with the children much more than is my husband. When they fight, I generally try to figure out which of them was in the wrong and make him or her apologize. My husband thinks that’s not helping. What do you think? A:

A much wiser man than I once said, “Forced apologies are morally meaningless.” In your situation, does the child who apologizes truly think he or she was in the wrong? No. When siblings have conflict, each of them thinks he/she has been the victim of some insult or offense from the other. It takes much more maturity and wisdom than is possessed by 6- and 9-year-old children

to see things from another person’s point of view. Is the apology, therefore, sincere? No. I suppose an argument could be made that it is “good practice,” but that’s idealistic thinking. The fact is that these forced apologies are probably making matters worse. What has led to your children’s inability to get along is their innate selfcenteredness. You and your husband have obviously modeled what a properly loving relationship looks (and sounds) like. But as I’ve pointed out many times in this column and elsewhere, parenting is not deterministic. That is the Freudian myth. As parents of prior generations understood, “every child has a mind of his own.” Good parenting does not guarantee a good outcome (and vice versa). Neither of your children are interested in a good relationship. They each want their own way. You and your husband want a good relationship. Each of you is willing to sacrifice self-interest to that end. It will be more than a few years before your kids are able to do the same – to put relationship above self - with one another or anyone else.

When parents “referee” sibling conflicts, things always go from bad to worse. For this reason, I nearly always recommend that parents not engage in trying to determine who did “it,” who did what to whom, who said what, who looked at the other sibling a certain way, etc. Hold both children equally accountable for disrupting the peace of the household. The first disruption of any given day earns both kids a good amount of time in their respective rooms (or separate rooms if they share space). That’s the warning shot. The second infraction earns them confinement for the remainder of the day – without electronic entertainment of any sort – and early bedtime. In my experience, consistent enforcement of this consequence-based program will begin to show good results within a couple of weeks and cure within a couple of months (albeit occasional enforcement may still be necessary for up to six months). The key is dispassion on your part. The emotional consequences of the problem must belong to the children, and the children alone.

in t p s o

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Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

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First Saturday Family Day

September 4 * 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, Dothan Saturdays are the perfect day for children and families to explore WMA together. A free come-and-go art activity for kids of all ages is offered the first Saturday of every month. All supplies are provided and no preregistration is required. Each Saturday will feature a different project, and special additional activities are included some Saturdays. During September’s First Saturday event, guests will construct a ceramic wind chime to use at home! After selecting and painting the ceramic pieces, participants will assemble it into a beautiful and pleasant-sounding wind chime. Gallery and garden activities for kids of all ages are available, too! For more info, call (334) 794-3871 or visit www.wiregrassmuseum.org/.

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Southern Broadway Presents Merchants of London

September 27-29 * Doors open at 6 p.m.; Dinner starts at 6:30 104 North Main Street, Enterprise The 19th century was a time when London was transformed into the world’s largest trade city. Come see the quirky merchants that helped London grow into a political, financial and business powerhouse. You never know what mysteries and surprises are in store when these merchants’ lives become intertwined with each other and their customers. Tickets range from $36.95 to $39.50 plus tax and .75 per ticket fee per person. Reserved seating only. Tickets must be purchased in advance. Buy online at www.southernbroadway.com or call (334) 470-6568.

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Headland Harvest Day Festival 5K & 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk

9th Annual Wiregrass United Way Campaign Kickoff Bus Tour

September 29 * Downtown Headland Registration 7 a.m.* 5K @ 8 a.m.* Fun Run/Walk @ 9 a.m. Register in the gazebo on the square. The wheeled, level course winds through downtown and residential areas. The Harvest Run is a part of the Headland Harvest Festival activities and benefits the Headland High School cross-country team. Entry fee to be determined. Registration forms are also available at www.headlandal.org.This is a Dothan Runners Club Grand Prix event. For more info, call (334) 693-3303.

We will load up a Bay Limousine bus September 18 with United Way volunteers, staff and Miss Alabama 2018 Callie Walker. Throughout the day, we will travel to all six counties served by the Wiregrass United Way and conduct a mini campaign kickoff in each county. The six Bus Stop events are as follows: 8:30 a.m. - Henry County - Boys and Girls Club of Abbeville 9:30 a.m. - Barbour County - Wallace Community College, Sparks Campus, Eufaula 11 a.m. - Dale County - Vivian B. Adams School, Ozark 1 p.m. - Coffee County - Enterprise High School 2:15 p.m. - Geneva County - Wiregrass Electric Cooperative, Hartford 3:30 p.m. - Houston County - Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce At each Bus Stop event, we will recognize some of our top Pacesetters, hear from our county leadership team, and announce the total amount raised in each county. At the end of the day we will announce the total raised by our Pacesetter companies. Everyone is invited to attend the Bus Stop event in your county. United We Win. LIVE UNITED.

SEACT Presents Mary Poppins Jr.

Sept. 19-22 * 7 p.m. nightly plus 2 p.m. matinee Sept. 22 Dothan Opera House, 115 North St. Andrews Street Southeast Alabama Community Theatre and Miller Orthodontics present Mary Poppins Jr. on the Dothan Opera House stage. Based on one of the most popular Disney movies of all time and the Broadway musical that played for over 2,500 performances and received multiple Olivier and Tony Awards nominations, Disney and Cameron Mackintosh’s Mary Poppins is capturing hearts in a whole new way: as a practically perfect Broadway Junior musical! Tickets are $20. For tickets or more info, call (334) 794-0400 or visit www.seact.com/. 5

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Paw Patrol LIVE! “Race to the Rescue”

Johnny Mack Brown Birthday Celebration

September 4 & 5 * 6 p.m. Dothan Civic Center, 126 North St. Andrews Street Tickets begin at $19 Adventure Bay’s Mayor Goodway is nowhere to be found on the day of the Great Adventure Bay Race against Foggy Bottom’s Mayor Humdinger. PAW Patrol to the rescue! Ryder summons the pups to represent Adventure Bay and race in Mayor Goodway’s place! Using their unique skills and teamwork, Marshall, Chase, Skye, Rubble, Rocky, Zuma and Everest show that “no job is too big, no pup is too small” as they make several heroic rescues on their race to the finish line. Children who have had their FIRST birthday require a ticket. VIP Packages available! Purchase tickets online at www.DothanCivicCenter.org or by calling the box office at (334) 615-3175.

Landmark Park

Sept. 1 @ 10 & 10:30 a.m. Free with paid gate admission ($4 for adults, $3 for kids, FREE for members) Landmark Park will celebrate Dothan native and Western film star Johnny Mack Brown’s 114th birthday during the month of September with a double feature from the serial Fighting Kit Carson. Great for all ages! Each movie lasts about 30 minutes and will be shown in the Interpretive Center Auditorium. Landmark Park is reportedly home to the largest collection of Johnny Mack Brown memorabilia in the world! To learn more about late Dothan native and Western film star Johnny Mack Brown, be sure to visit our exhibit on display in the Interpretive Center lobby. Fighting Kit Carson Serial Schedule for 2018 September 1 10 a.m. “The Mystery Riders” & 10:30 a.m. “The White Chief” September 8 10 a.m. “Hidden Gold” & 10:30 a.m. “The Silent Doom” September 15 10 a.m. “Murder Will Out” & 10:30 a.m. “The Secret of Iron Mountain” September 22 10 a.m. “The Law of the Lawless” & 10:30 a.m. “Red Phantoms” September 29 10 a.m. “The Invisible Enemy” & 10:30 a.m. “Midnight Magic” October 6 10 a.m. “Unmasked!” & 10:30 a.m. “The Trail to Glory”

Tee Off for Kids

September 20 * Highland Oaks Golf Course, Dothan The 24th Annual Tee Off For Kids, presented by Herndon Oil, Herndon Shell Food Marts and Checkers Restaurant, is a benefit for the Southeast Alabama Child Advocacy Center. This is a fourperson scramble with a shotgun start with Hole in One, Closest to the Pin and Longest Drive contests during play and a Putting Contest prior to start. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place net, as well as 1st-place gross. Sponsorships and teams filled on a first come, first serve basis. Contact Laura at (334) 677-1779 or by email at cheseldinelaura@ comcast.net for more info.

Screen on the Green: Loving Vincent

September 20 @ 7:30 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue, Dothan WMA’s free public film series presents Loving Vincent in the museum’s garden on the third Thursday of September. Guests are invited to bring their own lawn chairs and blankets to cozy up with a date, make it a family night, or enjoy some well-deserved alone time under the stars. Moviegoers can purchase snacks and dinner served by local food trucks and vendors, and enjoy FREE popcorn by WMA! WMA’s galleries are open beginning at 6 p.m. so visitors can take in current exhibitions before the movie starts at 7:30. Admission to the museum and Screen on the Green is always free. In case of inclement weather, movies will be shown in WMA’s Great Hall.

Oktoberfest

September 28 * 4:30-11 p.m. * Festival Fields, Fort Rucker Fort Rucker’s 16th Annual Oktoberfest features live German music by Sonnenschein Express, traditional German food including bratwurst and schnitzel, German beer, keg toss competition, car show and a good time! At this familyfriendly event, there are also inflatables for the children, a pumpkin patch, craft activities and more! So put on your lederhosen and don’t miss out on this celebration of German culture here in the Wiregrass! For more info, call (334)255-1749. Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

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Dothan Out of the Darkness Community Walk

September 29 * 10 a.m.-noon Northview High School, 3209 Reeves Street, Dothan When you participate in the Out of the Darkness Walks, you join the effort with hundreds of thousands of people to raise awareness and funds that allow the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to invest in new research, create educational programs, advocate for public policy, and support survivors of suicide loss. Join the AFSP Alabama Chapter at the 2018 Dothan Out of the Darkness Walk! Thanks to walkers and donors like you, AFSP has been able to set a goal to reduce the annual suicide rate 20% by 2025. For more info, please contact Roxane Fuentes at (334) 5475120 or e-mail: rfuentes1414@gmail.com.

Foster Fest

Friday, September 7 * 6-10 p.m. * Downtown Dothan * FREE Foster Fest returns to downtown Dothan. Food and arts & crafts vendors will be set up from South Foster to North Foster at the Carver Museum. New this month, Foster Fest will be taking over South Saint Andrews Street, as well! There will be live music from three stages. Chad Street will be playing on North Foster; the LA Playboys will be on South Foster; and the Community Talent Stage will be near the clock tower. September’s Kids Zone will be “Going Gold” with proceeds to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society.

Low Country Boil

September 20 * 6-9 p.m. Landmark Park in Dothan Tickets: $50 adults; $5 kids A great way to end the summer with plenty of music, food and fun, while raising funds for Landmark Park. The Low Country Boil includes a silent auction, wagon rides and hot dogs for the kids, and music by Brian Hart. Advance tickets required and are available at www.landmarkparkdothan.com or by calling (334) 794-3452.

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Autauga County Schools

Rehobeth Middle Jr. Beta Competitions

Rehobeth Middle School’s Jr. Beta Club entered 12 categories and won five Top 10 National Awards! The group took third place in Spotlight Your Club; fifth place in Poetry (Austin Duncan); sixth place in Advertising Design; 10th in Meeting of the Minds; and 10th in Living Literature.

C a g t t s w c f i a p

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

Carroll High School Gets New Plasma Table

The engineering department at Carroll High School’s career center in Ozark has a new plasma table. The machine was delivered over the summer. It will allow students to create and produce designs and concepts out of metal. Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

Northview Senior Chosen Semper Fidelis All-American

For the second year in a row, Northview High School has had a student selected as a Semper Fidelis All-American. For a week during the summer, senior Adriana Wright and her mentor, Northview High School Counselor Lauren Buchanan, traveled to Washington, D.C. for Battles Won Academy, a leadership camp where she learned how to be a better future leader of America. Wright and Buchanan participated in daily workouts, a Marine Corps experience on base in Quantico, a community service event, teambuilding, and toured our Nation’s Capitol. Proudly presented by the United States Marine Corps, the Semper Fidelis AllAmerican Program recognizes high school students who face life’s battles with the conviction and determination to succeed. These students embody the same fighting spirit that Marines stand for by taking on the challenges of succeeding academically while bettering their communities and excelling in athletics and extracurricular activities. They have turned obstacles into victories through drive and passion and are recognized for their achievements at the exclusive Battles Won Academy. Wright applied to this nationwide program and was selected based on her moral character, academic performance and athletic abilities. Out of the nation, less than 100 were selected to go! Through becoming a Semper Fidelis All-American, Wright will be eligible for select scholarship opportunities. For more info, visit https://sfaap.marines.com/. 8

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Girard Middle 21st Century Holds Summer Program The Girard Middle School 21st Century Community Learning Center had a phenomenal four-week summer program. Tara Hooks Grant, culinary arts teacher at the Dothan Technology Center, provided instruction as students constructed incredible edible delights. Grant works diligently to engage and educate children in the preparation of delectable fare. Students also participated in reading activities, financial literacy, outdoor activities and conservation programming provided by Landmark Park. A highlight of the program was found in two visits to The Cultural Arts Center. Girard students were exposed

to several different art mediums. The Cultural Arts Center volunteers, led by Ann Cotton, delivered activities that included, but were not limited to, textile arts, painting, storytelling and clay sculpture. Students, with the assistance of teachers and Cultural Arts Center staff, created tie-dyed bandanas, monogrammed flags, sculptured clay roses, and original paintings. Students amazed teachers and the arts staff with their amazing talents! Soft skills are of great importance as students grow and later transition into the workforce. In an effort to address these skills at an early age, all students participated in team-building activities. Students worked collaboratively to resolve problems in innovative manners as the summer program staff stood back and watched. As a culminating activity, the group traveled to Butter and Egg Adventures in Troy. Students and summer program staff competed in teams against each other on the Butter and Egg Battlefield in laser tag. Students demonstrated their love of competition at levels not typically seen during the school year. Other activities

included a giant swing, a rock climbing wall, and not just one but three zip lines. Students and teachers participated in situations that tested their courage, skill level and endurance. This article was written by Kim Smith, Girard Middle.

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Abbeville Christian Racks Up Awards

B o C C re s c 3 W o a

Autauga County Schools

Abbeville Christian Academy was awarded the Alabama Independent School Association 1A Chairman’s Award for the third year in a row for excellence in athletics. The school was also named a Blue Ribbon School for excellence in academics and all-around school excellence!

Houston Academy Raiderettes Lead Summer Dance Camp The Houston Academy Raiderettes had a fun-filled camp with these 5K-5th grade dancers! They learned a dance routine, band chants and the fight song. Watch for them this fall at the Booster Club Kickoff, pep rally and a home football game.

Houston Academy Yearbook Students Attend Auburn Workshop

All of the yearbook students at Houston Academy worked hard to meet the requirements of both the Best in Class Competition and the People’s Choice Competition. Approximately 46 schools with about 250 students from four states attended the workshop at Auburn University. After hours of hard work, the Houston Academy yearbook students earned the following awards: Excellence in Cover Design; Photography Award - Ambient Lighting 1st place - Madison Piedra; Photography Award - Black & White 1st place - Kobe Perdue; Photography Award - Ambient Lighting 2nd place - Andrew Muench; Photography Award - Food 3rd place - Kobe Perdue; and Photography Award - Portrait Honorable Mention - Madison Piedra.

S Z a F

ECHS Senior Walk

Seniors walked the hall of Early County High School July 27. Each year, the senior class designates a theme for the year. The ECHS Class of 2019’s theme is “Everyone has their limits. Ours is none!”

Please email news and photos to schoolnews @wiregrassparents.com by the 8th of each month! Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

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Big thank yous to the City of Samson, City of Hartford, City of Slocomb, the Geneva County Commission and the Geneva County Board of Education for providing resource officers at our six campuses this school year! The presence of these officers at our schools for the first day August 3 definitely created a sense of security. We are so pleased to have the support of our communities in this endeavor. Student and staff safety is our first priority!

CURE

ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure THE ALABAMA CENTER FOR CHILDHOOD CANCER AND BLOOD DISORDERS is committed to finding a cure for Liam and the more than 1,500 children each year who come to us for care. At our Center, more than 300 dedicated pediatric healthcare professionals provide exceptional patient care, education and research. We are a founding member of the Children’s Oncology Group * — a worldwide clinical trials organization supported by the National Cancer Institute. PROGRESS IN THE FIGHT FOR A CURE l 84% of children diagnosed with cancer in 2018 will be cured. l State-of-the-art screenings have reduced the rate of stroke in sickle cell patients by 90%. (Sickle cell disease is the leading cause of stroke in children). l Expanded programs help children re-enter school and normal life. l We are limiting the late effects of treatments and developing innovative therapies — making real progress in the fight against childhood cancer and blood disorders.

THE FACES OF A

Geneva County Starts Back to School

Samson Student Places in FFA Contest

We are COMMITTED to a CURE for all children — down the street and around the world.

Slocomb High School student Zachary Zinn won second place in Turfgrass Management Proficiency at the Alabama State Future Farmers of America Convention.

*The Children’s Oncology group is a clinical - translational trials organization with more than 9,000 experts worldwide dedicated to finding better cures and improving the outcomes for all children with cancer.

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Autauga County Schools

Geneva County Seniors Starting Last Year of High School

HCHS Cheerleaders Compete During Summer

Geneva County High School Class of 2019

The Houston County High School varsity cheerleaders competed June 3 and they brought home some nice trophies! They placed 1st in sideline, 2nd in extreme routine, 2nd in cheer, 2nd in overall game day, and most improved!

Samson High School 2019 Senior Class

Abbeville Students Attend Leadership Program

Four Abbeville Christian Academy students participated in the Henry County Youth Leadership Program this year! Congratulations on being selected... Jacob, Aubrey, Brooke, and Analeigh! Enjoy your year learning about Henry County! Slocum High School Class of 2019

South Dale Middle School Cheer Camp

Early County Elementary Collecting Box Tops

The South Dale Middle School cheerleaders had a successful camp the last weekend of July, learning new cheers and routines for this school year.

Early County Elementary School in Blakely, Ga. will collect Box Tops again for 2018-2019! The first collection day will be August 27. The Prize Patrol cart will make the rounds on August 31.

Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

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Autauga County Schools

Enterprise City Schools First Day Photos

All smiles for a new school year at Rucker Boulevard Elementary.

Enterprise Early Education Center

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

Coppinville Jr. High School

Pinedale Elementary School

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Autauga County Schools

Rehobeth Student Receives FBLA Leadership Position

Rehobeth High School student Ty Rickard is the new national southern region vice president of Future Business Leaders of America.

Houston Academy Offers Summer Youth Football Camp

Houston Academy’s Youth Football camp had more than 25 campers from the Wiregrass in attendance. It was an exciting time of learning fundamental drills and games that taught the game of football to young players. The varsity coaching staff led these young men through strength and conditioning exercises and speed development drills.They had several opportunities to participate in punt, pass and kick competitions as well as other team play.

Windham Elementary Finishes New Playground

Windham Elementary had a lot of help from a number of people getting its new playground ready for the new school year. Thank you to Johnathan Nabinger, Hugh Barber, Rich Miller, Todd Pippin, Jim Peters and Desmond Lett. Students in Mrs. Nichols’ pre-K class enjoyed playing on the playground when Dale County Schools returned to the classroom on August 6.

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

Dothan City Schools Offer Mathematical Summer

On June 4, nineteen upcoming ninth-graders from across Dothan City Schools embarked on a mathematical quest for knowledge. DCS implemented two free summer math programs to help the incoming ninth-graders be more prepared for their first year of high school. Algebra 1 Prep was taught by Sonya Lewis, top right, from Dothan High School. This course was intended for students who took 8th grade math and wanted to become more prepared for Algebra 1, or for students who took Algebra 1 in 8th grade but needed additional preparation before retaking it in the ninth grade. The Algebra Prep students that met all the requirements received ½ math elective credit on their high school transcripts. Fourteen students completed the Algebra Prep course and received credit. Of the 14 students, five will be recommended for Algebra 1 Honors due to their score on the post-assessment. The other class was Algebra 1 and was taught by Karis Hayford, bottom right, from Beverlye Magnet School. This course was intended for 8th-grade students who took Algebra 1 and did not receive their credit. Five students took the Algebra 1 course and all five met the requirements and received high school credit. These Algebra 1 students will be taking geometry as a ninth-grader in the 2018-2019 school year. Both courses covered topics that improved the students’ mathematical skills and knowledge in order to be successful in Algebra 1 and future math classes. The summer math courses were a huge success and DCS plans to continue the program. Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

Houston Academy Majorettes Host Mini Camp

The Houston Academy majorettes had so much fun hosting their mini majorette camp this summer. All six minis had fun learning twirling fundamentals, song routines, playing games, and getting to know the majorettes.

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Houston Academy Holds Volleyball Camp

RES Jr. Beta Club Members Volunteer to Serve

Houston Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s volleyball girls recently had a great opportunity to become better players. Melissa Wolter, head volleyball coach from the University of West Florida, was on the HA campus, along with some of her best players! They did a camp here for the HA players as well as some other players from the Wiregrass. The girls had an amazing time with the coaching staff as they were so friendly, knowledgeable and super engaging!

Rehobeth Elementary School Jr. Beta Club members volunteered for Serve Day 2018 at Wesley Manor Retirement Home.

Slocomb Cheerleaders Compete at Summer Camp

Slocomb High Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Redtop varsity cheerleaders placed first in the sideline competition and third overall at cheer camp in June. In addition, they brought home two leadership awards and four members were chosen as All-American cheerleaders.

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Houston Academy Holds Summer Science Camp

We kicked off the summer with wacky science experiments at Houston Academy! Students learned how to inquire, plan, and observe like true scientists. They discovered and created through experimentation to explore concepts of earth science, life science and physical science.

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Rehobeth Elementary Junior Beta Club Competes at State and National Level

Rehobeth Elementary School’s Junior Beta Club is an academic/leadership/service club of the National Beta Club organization that allows 4th- and 5th-grade students to qualify for membership based upon their grades, leadership skills, and character. The club focuses on ways to help students take on leadership roles in the school and community as well as provide service in many ways such as volunteering and fundraising. The club’s students also work very hard each year to compete in the Alabama Jr. Beta Club Convention. This past school year, RES Betas competed in 30 Academic and Arts categories at the State Convention in March. In 14 of those 30 categories, Rehobeth won first place and were named State Champions. In addition to that, students placed second in four categories, and third in two other categories. These honors qualified them to advance to nationals and compete in 20 Academic and Arts categories at the National Jr. Beta Convention in Savannah, Ga., in June. Also, RES Beta student Emerson Trotter was elected to serve next year as a State Officer for Alabama Jr. Beta. The National Convention was the largest Jr. Beta Convention in the history of the program as well as the largest event hosted by the city of Savannah, with more than 60,000 in attendance. The Rehobeth Elementary Jr Betas showed up and showed out bringing home the National Champions Title for Tower of Power, four second-place awards, and six other TOP 10 Awards! Principal Greg Yance and Beta Club sponsors Holly Seales and Kelli Whitehurst provide these students with coaching and opportunities to learn more about literature, engineering, technology, academics, music and art through this program.

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

Mixon Intermediate Receives Bicentennial Distinction

Mixon Intermediate School Principal Maghen C. Lowery was in Montgomery recently accepting the distinction of Mixon being selected as an official Alabama Bicentennial School. Mixon was awarded a grant that will allow the student body to create a project specifically designed to celebrate Alabama’s upcoming 200th year! Once completed in 2019, the Mixon project will enter another level of competition. Thank you in advance to all the students, teachers, and community members who will assist in the creation of our Project 200.

Houston Academy Hosts Summer Soccer Camp

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Houston Academy hosted a successful three-day camp for youth soccer players ages 3 to 6th grade! Almost 30 campers from around the Wiregrass enjoyed working the basics of total soccer during this camp. One camper attended from the country, Qatar, while he was in town visiting grandparents. Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

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Rehobeth Elementary Adds Little Free Library

Guess whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s coming to Rehobeth Elementary? Thanks to the The Little Free Library Impact Program, the RES Jr. Beta Club will be able to provide children in the community with FREE books to promote literacy! After visiting Alexander City, Ala., where we saw one, we were inspired to write a grant for our very own... and we were chosen to receive a free lending library! Ours will look similar to the picture and will be placed on the campus of Rehobeth Elementary! Stay tuned for more updates and the unveiling of our new National Junior Beta Club service project! Thanks #lflimpact and #littlefreelibrary #welovetoread National Beta

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ECHS Teacher Receives System Honor

Candi Vickers, a special education and ELA teacher at Early County High School in Blakely, Ga., was recently named the Early County School System Teacher of the Year.

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Southwest Georgia Starts Back to School

Southwest Georgia Academy in Early County, Ga. had a great first day of school with a lot of new faces. The day began with a prayer around the flagpole. We hope everyone had a great day!

Early County’s First Day of School

School is back in session for Early County Elementary School in Blakely, Ga. Teachers returned on July 23 and students returned on Friday, July 27.

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Samson High School Cheerleaders Attend Summer Cheer Camp

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Samson High School and Samson Middle School cheerleaders showed off their new cheer and dance routines after attending a week-long cheer camp.

Wiregrass Queens Host Fifties Party at Huggin’ Molly’s

The Abbeville and Henry County Queens hosted a “Frozen in the ‘50s” at Huggin’ Molly’s in July. The event was well attended by Wiregrass queens competing in the National Peanut Festival pageant. It was a great ending to the summer parties!

Early County’s Better Bobcat Summer Program

Thirty Early County Georgia students were a part of the “Be a Better Bobcat” summer enrichment program. Students learned about making good choices, giving back to others, and much more. Throughout the four-week program, students were able to go to Kolomoki Mounds State Park, Chehaw Park in Albany, Bella’s Fine Dining and the Wiregrass Museum of Art in Dothan, Gulf World in Panama City, and Wild Adventures in Valdosta. Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

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Southwest Georgiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Cheerleaders Named All-American

Being selected as an All-American is one of the highest awards an individual can achieve in cheerleading. Each summer at UCA, UDA, NCA, NDA and USA camps, thousands of cheerleaders and dancers tryout for the All-American title, but only 10 percent are chosen! Southwest Georgia Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s All-American cheerleaders are Karlie Bridges, Emily Earnest & Morgan Bridges.

Community Helps G.W. Long School

Members of the community helped get G.W. Long School in Dale County ready for the start of the school year. Parents and students joined teachers and staff for a community clean-up day on July 27. 19

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P Elementary and Middle Schoolers. At this age, kids love TV shows, games, movies, and online videos. They begin to explore more and hear about new shows and games from friends. Because they can access these things by themselves, it’s crucial to continue to supervise their activities and help them stick to your rules.

How to Set Screen Rules That Stick

Start with an endpoint. Use whatever tools you have -- your DVR, Netflix, OnDemand -- to pre-record shows, cue them up, or plan ahead to watch at a specific time. That way, one show won’t flow into the other, and you can avoid commercials. If your kids are into YouTube, search for age-appropriate videos, and add them to a playlist to watch later. Because most games don’t have built-in endings (and are, in fact, designed to make kids play as long as possible), set a timer or some other cue that says “time to stop.” Help them balance their day. Kids this age need guidance from you on a daily plan that includes a little bit of time for everything. And staying involved works. Kids whose parents make an effort to limit media use spend less time with media than their peers do, according to a 2010 Kaiser Family Foundation study. Use the American Academy of Pediatrics’ worksheets to create a family media plan. Practice what you preach. It’s tempting to keep reaching for your phone to check email, texts, Facebook, or the news. But your kids will be the first to call you out for not “walking the talk.” Plus, they’ll pick up habits from you. Model the media behavior that you want your kids to emulate.

In many homes, getting kids to turn off their cell phones, shut down the video games, or quit YouTube can incite a revolt. And if your kids say they need to be online for schoolwork, you may not know when the research stops and idle activity begins. When it comes to screen time, every family will have different amounts of time that they think is “enough.” What’s important is giving it some thought, creating age-appropriate limits (with builtin flexibility for special circumstances), making media choices you’re comfortable with, and modeling responsible screen limits for your kids. Try these age-based guidelines to create screen rules that stick.

Preschoolers. There are lots of great TV shows, apps, games, and websites geared for this age. But too much time spent in front of a screen can interfere with activities that are essential for growing brains and bodies.

High Schoolers. You’ll have more success with teens if you explain the reasons why too much screen time is harmful. For example, social media may contribute to anxiety.

Go for quality and age-appropriateness. Not everything for preschoolers needs to be a so-called “brain-builder,” but there’s a difference between mindless and mindful entertainment. Our reviews can steer you toward titles that help preschoolers work on developmental skills like sharing, cooperation, and emotional intelligence. Sit with them, and enjoy the discovery process. There will always be moments when you need to rely on the TV or an app to distract your preschooler while you get something done. But as much as you can, enjoy media together. Little hands and developing brains really benefit from your company (and guidance!). Begin setting limits when kids are little. Habits get ingrained early, so try to establish clear screen-time rules when your kids are young. For games, apps, and websites, you may need to set a timer. For TV, just say “one show.” Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

Help them make quality choices. You still have a say in what they see, hear, and play. Put in your two cents about the importance of quality shows, games, and movies. Crack down on multitasking. High school kids who’ve discovered texting, IM, Facebook, and music tend to do them all at once -- especially when they’re supposed to be doing mundane tasks like homework. But a University of Michigan study found that humans are terrible multitaskers and that the practice actually reduces the ability to concentrate and focus. Find ways to say “yes.” Look for movies they can watch. Find games you’re OK with. If your teens ask to see something you don’t approve of, help them find alternatives. 20

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Coding Fun for Digital Age Kids

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Toys and games offer maximum value when they teach new skills, when they stretch muscles both physical and mental. With more of our everyday lives connected to computers, apps and smart technology, the future is increasingly dictated by code. Introducing the basic concepts of coding to children not only gives them an early advantage in the future jobs landscape, but also teaches critical thinking skills, problem solving and tenacity. Coding also offers kids a sense of empowerment when they begin to grasp and implement the basics of coding, as they learn the secrets that drive the software, apps and websites they use everyday. The following items are entertaining introductions to coding for kids with an eye on the future.

COJI: The Coding Robot Toy

Code & Go Robot Mouse Activity Set

Before they dig into actual coding languages, kids can explore programming the COJI robot with a language they already understand... emoji! Combining emoticons and other familiar electronic symbols with arrows and images, youngsters can use this universal language to control their COJI. Using a smartphone or tablet with the COJI app, kid quickly pick up the way to ‘code’ commands that will have the robot moving, sounding off, and responding with emoji on its screen ‘face’. Just like with any coding, much of the process is trial-and-error, but COJI’s hilarious responses to mistakes will keep kids engaged while they master their troubleshooting skills. Not limited to device engagement, COJI can operate without the app or after screen time has ended. Accessible for kids regardless of reading level or math skills, COJI: The Coding Robot Toy is an early coding confidence builder!

While the irony of teaching code with a mouse isn’t lost on parents who depended on a mouse before touch screens arrived, the notion of coding a ‘mouse’ to navigate a maze is perfect for engaging kids as they program their way to success. Using a customizable maze board with walls and tunnels, the simple controls on the back of the mouse lets users plan its path. This coding set includes 16 maze grids, 22 maze walls, 3 tunnels, 30 double-sided coding cards, 10 doublesided activity cards, cheese wedge, and activity guide to provide a hands-on introduction to coding concepts. Young coders can also take the action off grid, creating original obstacles and paths with pillows, toys or anything the Code & Go Mouse can scoot around. Excellent for cultivating children’s ability to estimate distance and predict outcomes, each new coding of the robot mouse builds confidence and gets them one step closer to programming their own path to a bright future!

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Future Coders Poppin’ Pictures

(Learning Resources) The youngest set can dip their toes into the world of coding in a non-digital way, free of electronic screens with the Let’s Go Code game! Using double-sided pictorial ‘coding cards’ kids can plan their desired path and formulate the strategic moves that will get them to their destination. The cards dictate the players’ actions, their forward strides, pivots and other moves “coded” to get them to the finish. Featuring 16 EVA foam mats, 20 coding cards, and fun die-cut pieces, the set includes a full-color guide with a coding overview and maze examples to get kids started. Flexing physical and mental muscles, this engaging exercise in basic coding is a fun and forward-thinking introduction to programming for the kindergarten set!

Described in broad strokes, code is a representation of something else. While it may seem incomprehensible in its basic form, code can translate into a recognizable element when it reaches its end point. Future Coders Poppin’ Pictures demonstrates this process using a series of coded tiles. Using a suction cup pen, kids follows a coded ‘map’ as they place tiles onto a grid in a variety of configurations. When complete, the correctly placed tiles resolve into a picture. It’s a great introduction to representational thinking while fostering concentration and patience. Supporting important pre-programming skills like sequencing and analytical thinking, Poppin’ Pictures offers right-brain fun seasoned with some rigorous left-brain exercises.

Gerry Paige Smith is a syndicated columnist recommending the best products for kids and their families. Discover more at www.PageBookMedia.com

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Teach Them While They’re Young Q. My wife and I want to begin teaching our son how make a budget and live on one. He’s 16, and he has a part-time job and a hand-me-down car. Is this a realistic idea?

A. Your son is at a great point in life to learn how to make money behave. Even in his situation, when he’s still living at home, there are plenty of things he can include in a budget. There’s gas for his car, along with maintenance and insurance. He’ll need to save a little money — maybe even for college — and I’m sure he’ll want some spending cash, too. Sit down, and teach him how to make a written budget by figuring out the upcoming month’s income and expenses

ahead of time. Also, make sure he knows how to properly balance and reconcile his bank account. It’s still your responsibility to provide him with the basic necessities at this point. But I love your willingness to teach your son how to handle money intelligently. The sooner he learns some basic money management principles, the sooner he’ll be able to handle his finances responsibly in the real world!

Controlling Your Cash Q. I work long hours, and I make pretty good money. The problem is the money from my paychecks always seems to disappear before the end of the month. I know part of the problem is grabbing quick meals between extra shifts, and eating out a lot after work, because I’m usually too tired to cook when

I get home. How can someone who has very little free time start gaining control of their finances?

A. No matter how little free time you think you have, or how tired you are, you must make time do a written budget every month. This is essential. Making a budget for the month ahead isn’t a lot of hard work, and it really doesn’t take long. When you give every dollar a name before the month begins, you’re taking control of your money instead of allowing a lack of it to control you. Start with the income you know is predictable. If that isn’t possible, look back over the last few months and find the minimum amount you brought home during a month over that period of time. This will be the basis for your budget. Once you’ve established a baseline income, you can write down and prioritize bills and other expenses. Just remember, restaurants are not a priority! When you make a prioritized spending plan, and start telling your money what to do ahead of time, you’ll have the ability to do what’s important with what you’ve earned!

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Every parent has that one trick up their sleeve that helps make life just a little simpler in the midst of a hectic school year. Read on for some of their best tips, clever tricks and genius hacks for back to school. Plan your meals.

Steer clear of the drive-thru on hectic evenings by taking 10 minutes each weekend to plan simple meals for the week. With a complete grocery list in hand, head to the store to purchase everything youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll need. Theme nights like pasta on Mondays, tacos on Tuesday, etc., can also help. . Schedule grocery delivery. More grocery stores now offer online ordering and delivery services, helpful for families who dislike grocery shopping or struggle to stick to a budget when there.

Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

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Stock the freezer. Stash your freezer with healthy casseroles, soups, sauces and crockpot meals to make dinnertime a no-brainer on busy weeknights. “Try to make your cooking always do double duty. Make a little extra of everything and if you don’t want it right away, freeze it,” Nichols says. Establish a snack/brown bag lunch station. Designate a shelf in

your kitchen or pantry for parent-approved snacks and lunch items. Tape a list inside the cupboard door with lunch ideas. On Sundays, pre-pack snacks that kids can easily grab like trail mix, pretzels, granola bars or cereal. Stock the refrigerator with fruits and veggies that have been prewashed/cut, as well as cheese and yogurt sticks. Help your children make their lunches and pack their snacks the night before.

Share the daily action plan.

Laurie Loudenback hands her kids, ages 10 and 12, a clipboard each morning which includes the day’s schedule, chores, and screen time limits. “This chart has been pretty life-changing,” says Loudenback, whose husband Scott designed it (see below). “The first thing the kids say in the morning is ‘I need my chart.’”

Hold family meetings. Alexis

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Sanchez, mom of four, says she gathers her family on Sunday nights to discuss the week ahead, including upcoming activities and “to brainstorm any kinks” that need to be worked out in the schedule.

Spruce up backpacks.

What’s your move for managing the school year? Sloane G: A planner! The kind where you have plenty of space for each day. It is a must for this mom/teacher. Bridget E: My kids wash their own clothes and get them out each night. We pack dance bags, book bags, etc. and place them by the front door. Sometimes we even put all of our bags in the car the night before. I have become more of a monitor at this stage with one in high school and one in middle school. If we don’t prep the night before, we don’t make it in the morning rush.

Extend the life of a Alicia R: Remind app! We couldn’t make color guard, much-loved backpack FFA and everything else without it! by giving it a backCharlotte K: Prepping. I to-school cleaning. spend one Sunday a month Depending on the making all snacks and some material, backpacks lunches from scratch, freeze can generally be hand and pull out when I need too. We layout all clothes and accessories for the week on Sunday night. Also, each washed, spot cleaned kid is responsible for certain chores, which takes stress or placed in a laundry off of myself and my husband. bag or pillow case and run through the washing machine. If you Use a timer. If your child gets overhand wash it, soak it in warm water for 15 whelmed by lengthy math worksheets or minutes with a teaspoon of laundry deterother difficult assignments, try using a timer gent. Rinse well and air dry. like the Time Timer app and set a goal. For Manage paperwork. example, after he completes 10 problems, take a break for a quick snack. “Everyday after school,” Sanchez says, “we have a mandatory ‘empty your book bag’ rule.” Her children file important documents like those that need to be signed by a parent into an office divider. Label a folder with the name of your child and school year to easily collect artwork and other keepsakes throughout the year.

Create a homework station. Designate a well-lit

place in your home where homework can be completed without distractions. Create a homework caddy stocked with notebook paper, pens, pencils, crayons, colored pencils, rulers, and highlighters-anything your child might need to complete an assignment.

Set up a master calendar. Post a

white board with the week’s calendar to help everyone in the family know what to expect in the coming week. Use color-coded dry erase markers for each family member’s activities and cold or hot lunch preferences.

Make a homework plan. If your child struggles with organiza-

Attend back-to-school functions. Help your child get back into

the school groove by attending school orientations, ice cream socials or sneak-a-peeks. “Even reconnecting with one or two friends or meeting a teacher in person before the first day of school can make a difference to a child,” Dawkins says.

Connect in a memorable way. Be ready to meet a few new parents at back-to-school functions who you’ll want to reconnect with later. Mom of two, Kristal Ronnebaum suggests handing out a family calling card. “It’s a method of sharing your contact information in a fun and creative way,” Ronnebaum says. You can also hand the card to babysitters, carpool drivers and new neighbors.

Encourage rest. Maintain a regular

evening routine that helps your child unwind before bed, such as a warm bath or shower and reading time. Build unstructured time into your child’s weekly schedule for playing with friends and pursuing creative endeavors. WP

tion, go through their backpack together. Make a stack for the night’s homework and help your child prioritize what needs to be completed first. Use a calendar to help them plan long-term assignments.

Freelance journalist Christa Melnyk Hines and her husband are the parents of two school-age boys. She is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in a Digital World.

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After School Care After School Zone ad on page 9

FunZone Skate Center, 465 Westgate Pkwy Dothan, 36303 The After School Zone at FunZone Skate Center is for kids ages 5-13. The program is Monday through Friday until 6:00 p.m. For $45 a week, your child will get picked up from school, snacks, homework help and free, unlimited access to FunZone. There’s also Parents Night Out every Friday until 10:00 p.m. (334) 678-7529 asz@funzonedothan.com www.funzoneskatecenterdothan.com

The Learning Center ad on page 4

100 Westside Dr. Dothan, 36303 The Learning Center offers after school help in reading, math, science, social studies and language. We provide proctoring services, home school support, learning skills training and school course credits.

Elementary School (Skipperville) and South Dale Middle School (Pinkard). (334)445-0512 jessicabgc@yahoo.com www.bgcseal.com

Boys & Girls Club of the Wiregrass

457 S. Alice St. Dothan, 36303 Providing after school and summer programs to school-aged children. (334) 792-8787 pgilley@bgcwiregrass.org www.bgcwiregrass.org

Club STEAM

Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd. Daleville, 36322 A fun and free afterschool science program for grades 5-8. Learn about different fields of science and engineering through fun hands-on experiments. Please register at the Daleville Public Library. (334) 503-9119 dalevillepubliclibrary@troycable.net dalevillepubliclibrary.com

is offered at the Andrew Belle Center and Wiregrass Recreation Center. This program is for boys and girls 6 – 12 at Wiregrass and 6 – 15 at Andrew Belle Center. This is a supervised program that provides the children with snack, dinner, help with homework, games, sports, special events, field trips, arts and craft. Registration is held at each location with director from 1:30 – 5:30 p.m. Andrew Belle Center: 1270 Lake Street, 334 615-4722, Wiregrass Recreation Center 620 Sixth Avenue, 334 615-4740. (334) 615-3700 swingfield@dothan.org DothanLeisureServices.com

Ft. Rucker School Age Center

7th & Division Rd. Bldg. 2806 Ft. Rucker, 36362 School Age Center (SAC) provides childcare before and/or after school for children ages 6-10 in grades 1st – 5th. Full-day care is provided during school vacation periods. The framework for our SAC curriculum is based on the following four service areas: Sports, Fitness, and Health; Life Skills, Citizenship,

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Enterprise YMCA, 904 Ozark Hwy. Enterprise, 36330 The Enterprise YMCA’s After-School Camp is open to children ages 5-12. Counselors are on hand to help with homework, and kids are able to play. Transportation is provided from Enterprise elementary schools and the Early Education Center.

Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

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3245 Montgomery Hwy. Dothan, 36303 A+ Academic Services provides classes and tutoring for students of all ages. Classes include reading and mathematics instruction, ACT/SAT prep courses and a full range of courses to earn high school credits. In addition to individualized programs in specific areas, homework help is offered. A+ is also proctors exams. For an appointment or further information, please call Sonja Goldsmith, Director.

171 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave Ozark, 36360 For over 20 years, Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Alabama has been in the forefront of youth development, working with young people from disadvantaged economic, social and family circumstances. The BGCSEAL works to help youth of all backgrounds develop the qualities needed to become responsible citizens and leaders. It is facility-based and offers daily access to a broad range of programs in five core program areas: Character and Leadership Development; Education and Career Development; Health and Life Skills; The Arts; and Sports, Fitness and Recreation. The BGCSEAL has 6 locations; Main Site (Ozark), Glenway Homes (Ozark), East Gate (Ozark), Midland City Elementary School, GW Long

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Dothan First Church of the Nazarene, 1081 Honeysuckle Rd. Dothan, 36305 “DFAS is a high-quality after school program for children in K-8th grade. Transportation is available from Highlands Elementary, Heard Elementary, Montana Elementary, and Beverlye Middle School. We offer homework help, life skills classes, community service projects, recreational sports, and weekly discipleship classes that encourage your child to love God and people. Additional information and registration forms are available at www. afterschooldfc.com.” (334) 479-269 dfasdirector@dothannaz.com www.afterschooldfc.com

Dothan Leisure Services Playground Program The Department of Leisure Services offers free After School Programs. The Playground Program

and Leadership; Arts, Recreation, and Leisure; and Mentoring, Education, and Support Services. Occasional users may use the program five hours a week.

(334) 255-9108 https://rucker.armymwr.com/programs/ school-age-center-sac

Girard Middle School After School Program

Girard Middle School, 600 Girard Ave. Dothan, 36303 “Connecting Our Kids To Their Future” is our highest priority with Girard’s After School Program! We provide Math and Reading Tutoring as well as STEM! Our staff aims to play a critical role in motivating youth to reach a high level of educational attainment, as well as provide youth with an opportunity to improve physical fitness, gain exposure to life skills and hands on experience with professional careers. We provide a healthy snack and transportation! (334) 794-1426

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Girls Inc. Dothan

785 S. Foster Street Dothan, 36303 At Girls Inc., we focus on the development of the whole girl through school outreach and centerbased programs after school and during the Summer. Girls learn to value themselves, take risks, and discover and develop their inherent strengths. The combination of long-lasting mentoring relationships, a pro-girl environment, and research-based programming equips girls to grow up healthy, educated, and independent. (334) 793-2321 girlsincdothan@gmail.com www.girlsincdothan.org

Hawk-Houston Youth Enrichment Center

329 Chickasaw St. Dothan, 36303 Programs and Services are designed to provide comprehensive year-round afterschool and summer enrichment program curricula for school-age youth (K-12) to promote and increase mastery of academic skills, knowledge and content of core academic subjects; provide enrichment educational opportunities and activities that will strengthen their social, physical and emotional well-being. (334) 792-4618 hawkhoustonyec@gmail.com www.hawkhoustonyec.org

Heritage Christian Academy & Child Development Center

1962 Skipperville Rd Ozark, 36360 After School Care for School Age. Buses from Lisenby and G.W. Long comes here. Snack, homework time, free play (outside if weather permits) (334) 774-4447

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India’s Tiny Tots Daycare & Learning Center

404 N. Cherry St. Dothan, 36303 India’s Tiny Tots provides quality child care to children from 6 weeks to 14 years. Our local child care center is known for its homely atmosphere and healthy environment. (334) 792-0180

Kiddie Care Learning Center

218 Graceland Dr. Dothan, 36305 Come in and find out! Voted Best Daycare/Preschool of the Wiregrass 5-years in a row! (334) 678-2339 kkiddiecare@aol.com www.kiddiecarelc.com

Little Rebels Learning Academy

1062 Hadden Rd. Dothan, 36301 We are a learning center for ages 6 weeks to 12 years old. We specialize in daycare, preschool and after school programs! (334) 673-2595

Northside After Care

Northside Methodist Academy, 2600 Redmond Rd. Dothan, 36303 Here at Northside After Care, our goal is to provide a positive, relaxed and loving place for your child to be until you arrive. We fill each day with drawing, painting, singing, playing (indoors and out) and plain old “letting kids be kids.” (334) 702-8473 ccorbin@northsideknights.net http://www.nmacademy.net/school-after-care

Ozark First United Methodist Church CDC

167 E. Broad St. Ozark, 36360 The mission of the Child Development Center is to provide a safe and nurturing Christian environment that

promotes the physical, social, emotional, and cognitive development of children. Ages 6 weeks to 5th grade. Program hours 6:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. We offer an after school club with homework room also staffed by church volunteers. (334) 445-1329 cdckids@gmail.com www.ozarkfumc.org/child-development-center.php

1507 E. Park Ave. Enterprise, 36345 Refuge Christian Academy Preschool offers after school care for $45 a week. The program includes transportation from select Enterprise City Schools to the Fun Factory, homework assistance, snack time, and fun play with access to Fun Factory ammenities. (334) 489-4535

Smart Learning Tutoring Services

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Smart Learning has a 2 for 1 afterschool tutoring program for kindergartners through eighth graders. That means your child will have 2 HOUR sessions for the price of one! You can choose for your child to stay one or two hours, but the price is the same. The afterschool program will be held at the Cultural Arts Center on Wednesdays from 4:15-6:15. (334) 78-SMART smartlearningdothan@gmail.com www.smartlearningdothan.com

Aquatics Westgate Recreation Center, 501 Recreation Rd. Dothan, 36303 The Dothan Dolphins are a year-round competitive swim team for 6 -18 year olds from Houston County and the surrounding area. The Dolphins host three home meets annually at the Westgate Recreation Center and attend away meets throughout the region. Qualifying swimmers attend the Southeastern Championships and the ARPA State Meet. Tryouts are the first Monday of the month. www.dothan.org

Dothan Leisure Services Aquatics

501 Recreation Rd. Dothan, 36303 DLS Aquatics offers fun for all ages! Stop by the Wellness Center and sign up for one of our warm water classes, including Aquacise, AquaActivity, or AquaZumba. Catch a wave at Water World. Grab a lane at Westgate Competition for lap swim, join our all ages Learn to Swim Program, or try out for the Dothan Dolphins, our year-round swim team. kcarter@dothan.org

www.dothan.org

Kids After School Diving Camps

Anchors Away Scuba, 1303 Rucker Blvd. Enterprise, 36330 At Anchors Away Scuba, we want to have a positive impact on promoting the underwater world in communities in the Southeast and eventually the world. We run multiple programs, for children ranging in ages from 8-18. The programs and individual modules include Oceanic Awareness, School-Based Dive Theory Training and Confined Pool Sessions, PADI Seal Team, Complete ECA Dive Training Programs, Student Dive Clubs, and Educational Camps. (334) 578-3483 info@anchorsawayscuba.com www.anchorsawayscuba.com

www.teamunify.com/sewac

Art All About Art

100 S. Main Street Enterprise, 36330 Our creative hands-on studio offers classes for all ages, lessons for students in first grade through high school, Toddler Tales, Cookies and Canvas classes for teens, as well as summer and fall camps. Call the studio for pricing info. (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.allaboutartstudio.com

Creative Minds Art Center

312 S. Main Street Headland, 36345 We offer Pre-K Four Early Learning, Monday through Friday starting at 7:00 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. We also offer Creative Thematic Instruction for After School Care, Holiday and Summer Camp for school age children, as well as art and piano lessons. Creative Minds Art Center is open 2:45 until 5:45 p.m. Monday-Friday. (334) 796-9301

Dothan Dolphins Swim Team

(334) 615-3763

Ft. Rucker Fitness Center, 4605 Andrews Ave. Ft. Rucker, 36362 Special Olympics swim team that practices Tuesday and Thursday evenings from 6-7 at Fort Rucker Fitness Center. Swim season is from November-May. clineanne664@gmail.com

Refuge Christian Academy

(334) 615-3763

Wiregrass Waves Coffee/Dale Aquatics Special Olympics Swim Team

cmafterschoolcare@gmail.com

Dothan Cultural Arts Center

909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 We have classes for children who love the arts. The fall lineup includes ARTStudio, Children’s Beginner Pottery, Drawing 101, Creative Movement for PreK, and Dance 101. The CAC also offers classes morning and evening classes for adults. (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org www.theculturalartscenter.org

Monthly Arts & Crafts on Fort Rucker

Arts & Crafts Center, 212 5th Ave. Ft. Rucker, 36362 A wide variety of hobbies and skill classes are offered monthly. The Arts and Crafts Center offers sewing, quilting, stained glass, mosaics, drawing, and painting classes for adults and children. We also offer various craft classes for children, ages four and older. (334) 255-9020 https://rucker.armymwr.com/programs/ arts-crafts-center

Tipsy Kids

Tipsy Easel, 102 S. Cherokee Ave. Ste. 2 & 3 Dothan, 36301 Tipsy Easel has Preschool Art for ages 3-6 and After School Art for ages 7-12 every Tuesday and Thursday starting August 7. Each class will be $15 per person, and you must bring a 9x12 or larger mixed media sketch pad. All other supplies will be provided unless otherwise stated. (334) 714-7147 info@tipsyeasel.com www.tipsyeasel.com

Wiregrass Museum of Art

126 Museum Ave. Dothan, 36303 The Wiregrass Museum of Art collects and exhibits contemporary work by artists from Alabama and around the Southeast. The Museum has an

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

interactive education gallery for children, as well as rotating activities for families to explore the galleries together. WMA hosts a wide range of youth art education programs, including seasonal art camps, a monthly youth art class series, and First Saturday Family Day, which offers a free come-and-go art activity for kids of all ages on the first Saturday of every month. (334) 791-3871 lara@wiregrassmuseum.org www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Bowling Dothan Lanes

5727 Montgomery Hwy. Dothan, 36303 Dothan Lanes has two youth leagues: the Standard Division for ages 6-19 and the Bumper Division for ages 5 and under. Both leagues meet on Saturday mornings during the 12-week sessions that happen three times a year. The cost to participate is weekly and includes shoes. (334) 983-1585 dothanlanes@gmail.com www.dothanlanes.com

Patricia Lanes

2208 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, 36301 The fall session of the youth league will start on September 8th at noon. The league is open to any child between the ages of 4 and 18. We do offer a bumper league for the young children that are just starting to bowl. The regular league fees are $7.00 per week per child. (334) 794-6636 patricialanes@comcast.net www.patricialanes.net

Cheer ACE of Dothan

2541 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, 36301 We offer Structured Tumbling & Cheer Classes, ALL STAR Competitive Cheer, JV-High School Prep, College Prep, Stunt Classes, OPEN GYM and Personal Private Lessons! (334) 790-5596 amiepollard@acetribe.com www.acetribe.com/ace/dothan

Crossfire Cheer Academy

135 S. Woodburn Drive #7 Dothan, 36305 Crossfire is an afterschool program specializing in cheerleading. We teach tumbling, stunting, jumps and motions. It is a great activity for kids and keeps them in shape. We promise they will leave sweaty after each lesson!! 334-796-9161 crossfiredothan@gmail.com crossfirecheeracademy.com

Clubs Dale Co. 4-H

202 S. Hwy 23 Ozark, 36360 The Dale County 4-H program offers a variety of activities for kids ages 9-18. Thanks to the support of the community, the program offers archery instruction and competition, instruction and competitions for air rifles and BB guns, robotics, rocketry, virtual reality, computer science, and drone technology. Dale County 4-H also offers competitive livestock programs including rabbits, goats, hogs, Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

chickens, and cattle.

(334) 774-2329 zcf0005@auburn.edu offices.aces.edu/dale/

Early County 4-H

14415 Magnolia St. Blakely, 39823 This program was designed to help youth ages 9-19 in positive development by encouraging four essential elements; MASTERY, GENEROSITY, BELONGING and INDEPENDENCE. From its beginnings in agriculture, 4-H now offers so much more. In Early County 4-H’ers can participate in project achievement, leadership opportunities, service learning projects, shooting sports teams, summer activities and summer camp to name a few. (229) 723-3072 sbenton@uga.edu http://extension. uga.edu/topic-areas/4-h-youth-development.html

GIRLS Supporting GIRLS

1083 Hwy 27 S. Unit G Enterprise, 36330 G.I.R.L.S.(Girls In Real Life Situations Supporting Girls In Real Life Situations) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that has positive monthly empowerment sessions for girls ages 10-18. Empowerment Sessions every third Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Sessions on Life Skills, Community Service, Health and Wellness, Beauty, and Resume Writing all equipped with fun, fellowship, and activities. (334) 447-3674 girlssinggirls@gmail.com www.girlssupportinggirls.net

Houston-Henry Co. 4-H

Houston Co. Farm Center, 1699 Ross Clark Circle, Ste. 4 Dothan, 36301 Houston-Henry County 4-H has something for everyone, from livestock programs to shooting sports and a debate team. The club also has a regional ambassador program in which teens apply and interview for leadership positions representing Wiregrass and State 4-H activities. We provide 4-H programming in city and county schools, as well as have numerous homeschoolers enrolled in our programs.

334-794-4108 dhs0006@aces.edu www.aces.edu/4-H-youth/AL4-H/counties/Houston.php

Dance

Center Stage Dance

1107 Rucker Blvd. Enterprise, 36330 We strive to provide an education that includes discipline, respect for adults and teachers, team sportsmanship, commitment and most importantly FUN. We believe that dance should be a fun experience that promotes self-expression, confidence, and a healthy lifestyle. Offering the latest techniques and trends.

582 S. Church St. Blakely, 39823 A & A Dance, Inc. is a dance studio in Blakely, GA owned and operated by April E. Grist and Amber E. Grimes. Our studio provides dance education for children and adults ages 3 and up.We offer classes in ballet, pointe, tap, jazz, hip-hop, and modern. (229) 724-4470 aadance@windstream.net www.aadance.net

Alabama Twirling Angels

Saint Columba Catholic Church Gymnasium, 2700 W. Main St. Dothan, 36301 Alabama Twirling Angels is a Baton Twirling Organization that offers Lessons from beginner through advanced, ages 2 years old and up. We offer weekly classes in Dothan and Enterprise. We prepare for performances at local events, parades and competitions. We offer private lessons and high school and collegiate twirling audition preparation. (334) 596-0642 Sonjaw201@gmail.com alabamatwirlingangels.wordpress.com

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(334) 347-2171 center_stagedance@yahoo.com www.centerstagedanceal.com

Dothan School of Dance

3010 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, 36301 Through our progressive level training program, students ages 3 and up share the opportunity to strengthen their bodies and minds as they grow to love the art of dance. Proper dance training helps students to develop discipline, respect, rhythm, coordination, poise, flexibility, confidence, strength and body awareness.

(334) 794-5926 dothanschoolofdance@doth.twcbc.com www.dothanschoolofdance.com

Elevations School of Dance

164 Yancey Street Ozark, 36360 Elevations School of Dance is located at 164 Yancey Street in Ozark, Alabama. Owned and directed by Holle Hartzog Smith, Elevations is in its 13th year of operation and offers classes in ballet, tap, jazz, modern/contemporary, clogging, cheernastics, hip hop, Move with Mom, and fitness classes. Ages 2 through adult are accepted. Classes begin September 4. (334) 445-4414 elevations@centurytel.net www.elevationsschoolofdance.com/

Enterprise School of Dance

6 North Point Pkwy Enterprise, 36330 Classes offered include ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, contemporary, musical theater, hip-hop, and tumbling. The pre-school program includes mommy & me classes, creative movement classes for 3 and 4 year olds, and ballet & tap classes for those in kindergarten. The curriculum fosters physical awareness and improves the students’ body carriage, poise, coordination, and appreciation for the art while also just being fun. Classes begin August 13. Registration continues throughout the fall or until classes are full. (334) 347-7483 office@enterpriseschoolofdance.com www.enterpriseschoolofdance.com

A & A Dance

Onyx Dance Center

1330 Hartford Highway, Suite 5 Dothan, 36301 The Onyx Dance Center, with the primary dance team called the Onyx Stars. Join our team today that features Hip-Hop Majorette Dance. onyxstars2015@gmail.com www.facebook.com/ Onyx-Dance-Center-936332546433365/

Oz Dance Center

1932 Wise Dr. Dothan, 36303 Oz Dance Center’s philosophy is to offer a positive and exciting learning environment, where students can have fun, be creative, and experience the arts. The intent is to provide innovative, well-planned classes with experienced, professional teachers. Emphasis is placed on technique and choreography to develop well rounded dancers giving each child time in the spotlight. We are a family owned and operated establishment and would love to welcome your dancer into our dance family. (334) 792-6309 ozdancecenter@gmail.com www.ozdancecenter.com

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1077 W. Main St. Dothan, 36303 The PRJ Dance Centre offers dance classes in ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop and acrobatics

two regulation dressage rings and two breaking pens. A lighted western arena and lighted jump/ show arena, covered farriersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; shed and double wash stalls with warm water are also available.

Alabama Elite Gymnastics Academy

210 Graceland Dr. Dothan, 36305 Alabama Elite Gymnastics Academy & Cheer offers programs for all ages and abilities. Our mission is to help develop happy, healthy, responsible children. Tuition is based on the number of hours spent in the gym each week, but we do offer discounts for siblings and active military. 334-699-2342 contact@alelite.com www.alelite.com/

Enterprise Gymnastics & Cheerleading

Morgan Square Mall, 913 Rucker Blvd Enterprise, 36330 Home of the Enterprise Aerials. Our program includes gymnastics and cheerleading classes for children of all ages. We are dedicated to providing a safe and exciting environment for our students in which they have the opportunity to progress and excel in their chosen sport. We are a member of USA gymnastics, and are proud to have a friendly, yet highly trained and qualified staff. All of our classes keep a Student - Teacher ratio of 6 to 1.

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SEAGA Gymnastics

for all ages in the area. The studio also offers a performance-competition team for the more serious dancer. Income based tuition for families that could not otherwise afford dance classes and full scholarships are given to students who show an exceptional love for dance. (334) 699-5044 pattirutlandjazzdance@gmail.com pattirutlandjazz.com

To The Pointe Dance Academy

21 Park Street Headland, 36345 We are a dance studio offering recreational dance to ages three and up in ballet, jazz, tap, hip hop, tumble/cheernastics and baton. Along with our dance classes we are offering an after school program beginning this year including art, music, and games. (334) 322-5086

Equestrian Clearmeadow Morgans and Riding Academy 325 Gilley Mill Rd Webb, 36376 We are a small, quiet family oriented training and lesson facility. We specialize in Morgan horses and offer lessons in Hunt and Western. (716) 696-0869 karenmbarber@hotmail.com www.clearmeadowstables.com

Ft. Rucker Riding Lessons

Ft. Rucker Riding Stables, Hatch Road, 36362 The Fort Rucker Riding Stables includes a clubhouse, community pastures, hay barn, and 40 duplex barns with individual tack rooms. There are

(334) 255-0021 https://rucker.armymwr.com/ programs/riding-stables

Lisa Stewart Riding School

Magnolia Farm, Hwy 123 Newton, 36352 Lisa Stewart Riding School offers riding lessons to ages 4 on up. Beginners thru advanced, in dressage (English), jumping, and western. School horses are available, at a beautiful country facility, in an outdoor arena with lights. (334) 718-5181

stewartlisadressage@gmail.com

Triple A Ranch

10186 George H. Grimsley Rd. Columbia, 36319 Triple A Ranch offers one-on-one lessons for beginners, intermediate, and advanced riders, as well as lessons for those interested in barrel racing. The ranch also offers clinics for beginners and aspiring barrel racers. (334) 726-0767

www.aaaranch.weebly.com

Tumblewood Ranch & Training Facility

1408 C.R. 70 Newville, 36353 We are an equine full service boarding and lessons facility. Miles of gorgeous trails. Covered arena. (334) 790-5299 thetumbleweedranch@gmail.com thetumbleweedranch.com

Golf Dothan Junior Golf Association

Dothan National Golf Club, 7410 Hwy 231 South Promoting junior golf development via golf instruc-

1923 Wise Dr. Dothan, 36303 We offer gymnastics and cheerleading classes from ages 1-18. That includes Parent/Tot classes all the way through Advanced level competitive teams. Our purpose is to develop happy, healthy, confident children; keeping in mind that nothing is more important than a childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s self esteem. 334-793-9019 funstuff@seagagym.com http://seagagym.com/

Library Dothan-Houston Co. Library

445 N. Oates St. Dothan, 36303 The Dothan Houston County Library System offers a variety of events and programs throughout the year. These events include story & craft times, Lego Clubs, our year-round literacy program - 1,000 Books Before Kindergarten, computer & technology instruction for all ages, and much more. Additionally, we also provide groups with library tours with advance notice. Be sure to check out our website, www.dhcls.org. 334-793-9767 jleduc@dhcls.org www.dhcls.org

Enterprise Public Library

101 E Grubbs St. Enterprise, 36330 The Enterprise Public Library serves over 100,000 visitors each year and our patrons have access to a collection of more than 100,000 books and materials, public computers, laptops and a wide range of digital resources and databases. We provide literary, cultural and educational programs for children,

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teens, and adults each month as well as faxing, scans, notary and proctoring services.

homework assistance, tutoring Sessions upon request, taekwondo classes, and Fun Day Friday.

(334) 347-2636 director@enterpriselibrary.org www.enterpriselibrary.org

(334) 678-0903

Headland Public Library

1919-B East Park Ave. Enterprise, 36330 I’mmortal. is a local martial arts team in Enterprise, AL and the closest to Ft. Rucker. We offer a well rounded experience for any person wanting to be a martial artists for a healthier lifestyle, self-defense, fun, or competition through tournaments or the cage. We also have an after school program.

17 Park St. Headland, 36345 The Headland Public Library offers a Legos Program the first Monday of every month starting in September which is geared for ages 4-11. We also offer educational resources online including Homework Alabama and Learning Express Library which offers FREE online tutorials, practice tests, and eBooks to help patrons of all ages. (334) 693-2706 headlandlibrary@gmail.com www.headlandlibrary.org

Martial Arts ATA Karate Center

3121 Ross Clark Circle Ste. 4 Dothan, 36303 Now enrolling ages 3 and up!!! Self-Defense, Life Skills, Getting Fit and, To ALWAYS Have Fun is what we try to achieve. Call or come on by for a free lesson and check things out for yourself, see what we’re all about. (334) 702-4400 nattkd@yahoo.com www.ataonline.com

Christian Karate Association

1924 Wise Dr. Dothan, 36303 We offer a variety of classes designed to fit students of all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a parent of a young child who is just becoming interested in karate, or you’ve studied karate for years, our instructors are here to work with you. We even offer classes for home school students. Contact us today for more information. (334) 673-3473 info@dothankarate.com www.dothankarate.com/

Conley’s Academy of Keichu-Do Martial Arts

117 N. Main St. Enterprise, 36330 Learn it all here at Conley’s Academy of KeichuDo, the premier school for learning martial arts: Karate, weapons, Judo, Jiu-Jitsu, and Kung-Fu. (334) 347-4950 chudo1.com/

econley@juno.com conleykei-

Dothan Martial Arts Academy

1451 Westgate Pkwy Dothan, 36303 Enrollment is open for Dothan Martial Arts Academy’s after school pick-up program. Designed for elementary to middle aged school children, we provide a safe, clean, fun, and superior quality educational service where students can participate in daily martial arts classes. The program includes transportation from school to studio, simple homework assistance, tutoring sessions upon request, and taekwondo classes. (334) 678-0903 dothantkd@hotmail.com www.dothanmartialarts.com

Enterprise Martial Arts Academy

1109 Boll Weevil Circle Enterprise, 36330 Enrollment is open for the after school pick-up program. Our Program is designed for elementary to middle aged school children. The After School Care Program includes transportation, simple Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

www.enterprisemartialarts.com

I’mmortal. Jiu-jitsu

Miscellaneous After School Zone ad on page 9

334-389-1164 immortalmma.enterprise@gmail.com www.jiujitsuenterprise.com

MojuKai Karate Kobudo

607 E. Lee St. Enterprise, 36330 MojuKai Karate is Enterprise’s #1 After School Program because we provide structure and stability while actively teaching core American Values. We offer FREE Transportation from school, a FREE snack upon arrival at the studio, FREE tutoring and karate classes are INCLUDED. (334) 475-3899 mojukaikarate@gmail.com www.mojukaikarate.com

Tiger-Rock Martial Arts

1032 Boll Weevil Circle Ste. 1 Enterprise, 36330 Austin’s Community Taekwondo Studio provides quality Martial Arts and Self Defense Training. We have classes for Men, Women and Children of all ages. (334) 393-3939 austinstkd@roadrunner.com Find us on Facebook

United Scorpion Karate Association

1145 James Dr. Enterprise, 36330 Now registering for the USKA After School Karate Program. Parents may register their child at any time. USKA offers homework assistance with certified teachers, karate classes, computer lab, field trips & much more. (334) 475-4308 uskainfo@scorpionkarate1.com www.scorpionkarate1.com

Wolfpack Mixed Martial Arts

2952 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, 36301 Wolfpack Karate & MMA offers martial arts training to kids, teens, and adults. We train MMA, Israeli Krav Maga, Muay Thai, Kickboxing, Boxing, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Judo and Shotokan Karate-Do. We have been in business for 25 years and have locations in Dothan and Ashford. (334) 677-2002 mmadothan@gmail.com www.wolfpackdothan.com

World Yoshukai Karate

1791 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, 36301 World Yoshukai Karate offers karate classes for children and adults. We teach traditional Japanese martial arts like forms, weapons, self-defense, and sparring. Children will also learn physical conditioning, respect, manners, & discipline. The instructor, Mike Culbreth, 8th degree black belt, has been teaching for 38 years. Classes: Dojo ($75/month) and Westgate Recreation Center ($60/month) (334) 794-8238 worldyoshukai@graceba.net www.wykko.com

BMX Racing

Circle City BMX Track at Westgate Memorial Park, 501 Recreation Rd. Dothan, 36303 BMX racing is for all ages to enjoy and CCBMX is the fastest track in the state of Alabama! We are located inside Westgate Park next to the softball fields and practice every Friday night from 6:30-8:30pm. Race dates vary so visit www.circlecitybmxracing.com for our 2017 schedule or call our hotline for the monthly schedule at 334-793-0189. (334) 714-0212 circlecitybmxinfo@gmail.com www.circlecitybmxracing.com/

Bright Key at Highlands & Selma St. Elementary Schools

Dothan, 36305 Bright Key is a stakeholder-driven community schools initiative operating at both Highlands and Selma Street elementary schools. Because of the stakeholder-driven nature, programs vary from school to school, and each program enlists a community partner to make it successful. Both schools, however, include an Academic Dream Room program where students receive weekly one-on-one tutoring and enrichment with a volunteer tutor. It is easy to volunteer and takes very little time each week to invest in a student’s future. Brittany@brightkeywiregrass.org www.brightkeywiregrass.org

David’s Performance Factory

131 S. Woodburn Dr. Dothan, 36305 This fall, classes will be available every day for youth, middle school, and teens. We have month-to-month plans with no annual contracts designed to meet any need. Classes officially start September 3rd. (334) 718-4234 davidspfactory@gmail.com www.davidspf.com

Dothan JOAD and Archery

Dothan JOAD and Archery is a FITA and Target Archery Club located at Eastgate Park in Dothan, Alabama. Dothan JOAD teaches and trains youth archers from novice archers to advanced tournament archers. We meet every Saturday from 8am -12pm. Anyone between the ages of 8 and 20 years old can join Dothan JOAD, but all ages and skill levels are welcome to learn archery and shoot with us. (334) 796-5583

Dothan Leisure Services Archery Classes

Eastgate Park Archery Range, 1949 Sanitary Dairy Rd Ashford, 36312 Dothan Leisure Services offers an Olympic-style archery skills class, which is taught at the Eastgate Archery Range. Class content covers archery history, safety, technique, equipment, mental

www.wiregrassparents.com

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Kids Boxing & Fitness

Team Alpha Boxing & Fitness, 2568 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, 36301 Where kid’s learn focus, discipline, and self-respect. (334) 699-1060

www.teamalphapack.com

Landmark Park

430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, 36302 Landmark Park is the perfect place to spend a little quality family time after a busy day at school and work. Families can enjoy the shaded boardwalk and nature trail, Wiregrass Farmstead and playground every day. The park is open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-6 p.m. Admission is $4 for adults, $3 for kids ages 3-12 and free for park members and children 2 and under. n Mondays and Fridays at 3:30 p.m., the Planetarium plays full dome movies about stars, constellations and other astronomy related topics. (334) 794-3452 laurav@landmarkparkdothan.com www.landmarkparkdothan.com

National League of Junior Cotillion Dothan Chapter

1600 W. Newton St. Dothan, 36303 The National League of Junior Cotillions is a nation-wide program with over 30 years experience teaching children: dining etiquette, ethics, character education, everyday manners, and ballroom dancing. Our mission is for our students to learn to treat others with dignity, honor and respect for better relationships with family, friends, and associates. (334) 798-1942 jill.dykes@nljc.com www.nljc.com/chapter/dothan

Music Dothan Music Academy

Wiregrass Youth Symphony Orchestra

Dothan Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 The Wiregrass Youth Symphony Orchestra program gives youth from ages 9-19 with or without musical experience an opportunity to play a string instrument with others of similar ability. (334) 563-6856

www.tristatecommunityorchestra.org

Scouting Boy Scouts of America

6801 W. Main St. Dothan, 36305 The Boy Scouts of America have an amazing opportunity for the youth in the Wiregrass Area. Cub Scouting is for both boys and girls grades K-5th. Boy Scouts is currently still for young men ages 11-18, and Venturing is for both males and females ages 14-21. (334) 303-9074 www.bsa3.org/

larry.newton@scouting.org

Girl Scouts of Southern Alabama

145 Coliseum Blvd Montgomery, 36109 At Girl Scouts, she’ll get to team up with other girls in an all-girl environment to choose the exciting, handson activities that interest her most. Along the way, she’ll gain important skills in four areas that form the foundation of the Girl Scout Leadership Experience; Outdoors; Life Skills; Entrepreneurship. (800) 239-6636 communications@girlscoutssa.org www.girlscoutssa.org

Team Sports Dixie Boys Baseball

Dothan Leisure Services, 126 N St Andrews St Dothan, 36303 Dixie Boys Baseball is operated by the Dothan Leisure Services for players ages 13-14. Dixie Boys play at the same facility as our Miracle League. Dixie Boys Baseball is an excellent way to get your

child involved in a sport that will develop strength, flexibility, coordination, and friendships that will last a lifetime. Contact Jonathan Wood for more information. (334) 615-4742

tcarter@dothan.org

www.dothan.org

Dixie Youth Baseball

Dothan Leisure Services, 126 N St Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Dixie Youth Baseball in Dothan is operated by four parent-board organizations. Dothan Leisure Services maintains the fields and acts as a liaison between the boards. The boards handle all the registration, scheduling, uniforms, advertising, sponsorships, concessions, and officiating. The leagues consist of T-ball, Confederate (coach pitch), Minor, and Ozone. (334) 615-3700

tcarter@dothan.org

www.dothan.org

Dothan Hoops

128 S. Woodburn Dr. Dothan, 36305 The goal of Dothan Hoops is to provide supplemental sports instruction to athletes in the immediate and neighboring communities. The primary focus is on basketball training for youth ages 5 to 18. Services include instruction in shooting, passing, ball handling, strategic understanding and court awareness at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels. (334) 685-3198 dothanhoops@gmail.com www.dothanhoops.com

Girls Youth Softball

Dothan Leisure Services, 126 N St Andrews St Dothan, 36303 Dixie Girls Softball is operated by the Dothan Leisure Services. We play fast pitch softball. Team sports are excellent outlets to develop strength, flexibility, coordination, and sportsmanship in a social team setting. Age groups include: T-ball: ages 5 - 6; Darlings (coach pitch): ages 7 - 8; Angels: ages 9 - 10; Ponytails: ages 11 - 12; and Belles: ages 13 - 15. (334) 615-3700 tcarter@dothan.org www.dothan.org

Latta Music, 3332 W. Main St. Dothan, 36305 Dothan Music Academy located at Latta Music Company provides private and group musical instruction that includes but is not limited to all band and orchestra instruments, piano, voice, guitar, drums, and various other instruments. We provide a very affordable rental program for all band and orchestra instruments, so that students may begin learning with lower up front instrument investment. (334) 793-7638 chris@lattamusic.com musiclessonsdothan.com

Guitar & Bass Lessons

Metro Music, 155 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Metro Music offers weekly guitar and bass lessons. Lessons are $20 per week and include homework. (334) 792-0883 metromusicdothan@gmail.com www.metromusicinc.net

Hoobler Music Studio

201 W. College St. Enterprise, 36330 Offers string and drum classes for about $50 a month. Teenagers are welcome to participate in Open Mic Nights held the last Friday of the month. There’s also a community band that meets Monday nights. Hoobler offers piano, voice, and guitar. (334) 390-1009 royhoobler@yahoo.com www.hooblermusic.com

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P Martin Athletics

1861 Ross Clark Circle Suite 3 Dothan, 36301 A Baseball/Softball training facility built around a few key ideals. Lessons include batting, fielding, throwing, strength and agility, and pitching. Services include individual lessons and team practices. (334) 790-0384 jwm0014@aol.com www.martinathletics.com/

Upward Sports @ EFUMC

First UMC, 217 S. Main St. Enterprise, 36330 Kids of all skill levels are welcomed to participate in our Flag Football, Basketball/Cheerleading leagues. We provide a healthy environment that teaches kids the skills to grow physically, spiritually, and socially. Please contact Jacob Hartley with questions, or if you are interested in coaching, reffing, or volunteering. (334) 347-3467

https://www.efumc.com/

Wiregrass Futbol Club

Enterprise, 36331 Three educational soccer programs: DinoMites (ages 2-6), Academy (ages 6-10), and Competitive Teams (ages 10-18). The goal of the program is to develop skills, character, and self-esteem, while also providing a path for players looking to get involved with US Youth Soccer’s Olympic Development Program. (334) 498-7560 enterprisefutbol@gmail.com www.enterprisefutbol.com

YMCA Youth Sports

Enterprise YMCA, 904 Ozark Hwy. Enterprise, 36330 The Enterprise YMCA offers sports for all ages, including soccer, basketball, t-ball, volleyball, and tennis. Contact the center to sign your child up.

tion for all, from advanced to beginner / intermediate to highly skilled tournament seasoned players. Play begins in June. (334) 615-3790 tcarter@dothan.org www.dothan.org

(334) 347-0214 enymca@centurylink.net www.enymca.org

Theater

Youth Basketball

Cotton Hall Theater

Dothan Leisure Services, 126 N St Andrews St Dothan, 36303 Youth Basketball is operated by the Dothan Leisure Services. The teams are co-ed. Registration is October 16-21. Tryouts begin November 13th. The season begins January 2nd. Age groups include: Mite League - 9-10; Midget League - 11-12; Junior League - 13-14; and Senior League - 15-18. (334) 615-3700

tcarter@dothan.org

www.dothan.org

158 E. Main St. Colquitt, 39837 Cotton Hall Theater is best known for Swamp Gravy, Georgia’s official Folk Life Play. Cotton Hall also presents other productions throughout the year, including the CMAC Youth Theater, an annual musical, and more. (229) 758-5450 kate@swampgravy.com www.swampgravy.com

Spark Theater Company

Tennis Junior Tennis League

Dothan Leisure Services, 126 N St Andrews St Dothan, 36303 Leisure Services USTA Junior Team Tennis will begin registration in May. All juniors, boys and girls ages 9 - 18 are invited to participate. Because players are grouped in skill levels, there will be excellent competi-

Dothan Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Spark Theater’s After School Theater Program is an opportunity for your child to participate in semester-long theater classes that take professional-level theater education and scale it down to the age- and experiencelevel of your child! Each semester ends with a public performance of a play. (334) 435-8884 info@sparktheatercompany.com www.sparktheatercompany.com WP

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Choose Smart, Focused Advertising with Wiregrass Parents! Call or text (334) 714-7831 or Email ads@wiregrassparents.com. Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

How to Repair a Broken Relationship With Your Teen How’s your relationship with your teen? Do feel there is a distance between you and your child, and the space is only increasing everyday? Has your once happy relationship with your kid turned into open animosity with your teen? Maybe it feels like your sweet baby went upstairs one day, and came down a totally different person – someone who seems like a total stranger to you? You’re not alone. I get calls every day from parents just like you who say, “My relationship with my teen is disintegrating before my eyes. What can I do?” If that sounds like a call you could make right now, let me share some ways you can start mending your relationship before it is destroyed altogether. Consider implementing some of these relationship repairs:

Take Stock of the Relationship

Like going into your closet and getting rid of all the clothes that don’t fit us anymore or have simply gone out of style, we need to go into our parenting closet and take inventory. This requires an honest evaluation of the actions, beliefs, styles, and habits in our home and a willingness to toss out everything that doesn’t belong or doesn’t work. What are some areas that you can change and adapt as a parent? How can you accommodate the growing needs of your teenager? How can you grow alongside them as they learn to navigate the world? Like reaching back into the closet and taking out those corduroy bell-bottoms you haven’t worn since high school, take regular time to examine the ways you are connecting to your teen. See what is out of style, what needs to change and what keeps you stuck in the past. I realize that these are tough words to handle. It’s not easy to hear that maybe something we are doing as parents is hurting our kids. But we can all readily admit that we don’t have the parenting gig down pat. There’s always room for growth as moms and dads.

Start Asking Questions

Want to get your relationship with your teen back on track? Start asking the right kind of questions. Ask the kinds of questions that make them think about things, not just “yes” or

“no” questions. Find out what they think, how they would do something, where they would go, and why. When a discussion leads to surprising expressions of wisdom from your teen, take advantage of the moment to reinforce their insights. Talk about controversial subjects as you would with a friend or co-worker for whom you have great respect. Never belittle their opinions about things. After all, did you know everything when you were a teen? Then, ask some more personal questions. “What could I do to improve our relationship?” or “What things would you like to see change in our family?” Let me warn you–if you ask these types of questions, you may not like what you hear. But don’t run from the answers. Hearing honest feedback from your child may open your eyes to areas that need to change. You’ll also be communicating to your child that you desire to do everything you can to restore and maintain a loving relationship.

Take Ownership for Mistakes

The statement “I was wrong” (when said by a parent) can do wonders for a broken relationship. If you handled a situation poorly, admit where you made a mistake. Never will your child respect you more than when you admit your faults and ask for forgiveness. Humble parents who admit their mistakes and apologize are building healthy, happy families.

Create the Proper Environment

Don’t let your family get emotionally stuck in the mistakes and tension of the past. Create an environment that welcomes and invites change. If you feel like it’s time to make some positive shifts in your family, sit everyone down and tell them, “We need to make some changes around here–me included. It’s not going to be the same-old, same-old. Let’s work together as a family to move forward.” I’ve spoken on this topic at seminars a few times. And afterwards, I always have parents and teens come up to me and say, “Thank you! We decided as a family that we needed to change, and it was one of the best decisions we made. Our kids are happier, and we feel happier as parents!” 33

Act On It

Once you decide to make some changes towards restoring broken relationships, it’s time to act! Maybe you’ve realized that as a mom or dad you have been too overprotective in certain areas. Apologize to your kids and show them that you are working on changing and releasing some control. Perhaps you’ve seen that much of your conversation with your children comes off as judgmental. Express to your family your desire to change, and work towards infusing your conversations with grace. Or maybe you’ve realized that you just haven’t spent the time you need with your teen. Drop that weekend golf game, or forgo that daily run, in order to spend time with your teen. Those visible actions convey your willingness to work towards a better relationship.

Stay With the Plan

We don’t wake up one day with the perfect marriage, perfect kids, or perfect home. Those relationships take time and effort. So if your connection with your teen is in trouble, and you are working towards making positive changes, don’t give up! Stay with the plan. In difficult transitions, your teen may push back. They may dig in their heels as you try to rebuild the relationship. But keep the mindset and attitude that says, “We’re not going backward, only forward.” Even if you get nothing but grief from your teen at first, keep up your weekly time together, week after week. Eventually they’ll come around. Remember, relationships thrive when unconditional love is delivered across a bridge of friendship that never stops — even if your teen doesn’t respond. He or she may secretly be testing your commitment! I want to challenge you today to commit to rebuilding a relationship with your child, and that starts with good communications. No matter how strained or difficult your relationship might be, there is always hope. It may take time and persistence, but keep at it.

Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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Team sports are a great way to keep kids active but not all kids enjoy playing them. When kids avoid team sports, parents look for other ways their children can continue to be healthy and active. How can you get your kids moving around when they aren’t part of a sports team? Encourage lifelong activities Choose activities that have the potential for lifelong enjoyment such as biking, swimming, walking, and hiking. These activities are great because while they can be done individually, for a lifetime, they also can be enjoyed as a family. Encourage everyone to go on a walk or bike ride together, hike in a local park, or spend the day at the pool. Give your kid a camera and let him photograph the beauty of the outdoors. Get a step counter for each family member and create a friendly competition to see who can get the most steps.

Go outside Simply getting your kids outside can be a great way to sneak in exercise. Visit a local park, encourage them to climb trees, swing, or play tag. Have your child go on a “treasure hunt” in the backyard and col-

Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

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lect items that interest them like sticks, rocks, flowers, or leaves. Catching fireflies in the summer, building a snowman in the winter, or raking leaves in the fall all help kids to be active while not playing a sport.

Individual sports Just because your child does not enjoy team sports does not mean they may not enjoy an individual sport. Gymnastics, swimming, track and field, wrestling, diving, archery, golf, or weight lifting are all good examples of individual sports where children compete against themselves.

Limit screen time When screen time is allowed, try to encourage them to move while they are watching television. If a song comes on, get up and dance or march along. If they are playing video games, encourage games that involve movement. If the child is sedentary while enjoying screen time, ask them to complete some sort of activity like chores or outdoor play before they turn the television or tablet on.

Set an example Children learn by example. If the parent has a low activity level the child will most likely see exercise as a low priority. Lead by example and get moving. Begin an exercise routine or a hobby that includes movement, like gardening, and invite your child to join you. Make the most of the time together.

Dance and theater Turn on the music and have a family dance party. There is nothing like a great song to get a body moving. Dancing is fun and it’s great exercise too. Some children may also enjoy trying dance classes, baton twirling, or cheerleading. All of these are a great source of exercise. If your child is drawn to music and theater get them involved in a theater production in school or your community.

Find a new hobby Encourage your child to find a hobby that encourages movement and activity such as skateboarding, fishing, bowling, and woodworking. If the child is doing something they enjoy they won’t even notice they are also exercising.

Play Leisure sports can be more fun for kids that don’t care for team sports because they are less competitive and therefore have less pressure to perform at a higher level. Encouraging kids to play gets them active. Playing frisbee or frisbee golf, tag, catch, shooting hoops, and duck duck goose all require kids to run around. They will be having so much fun they won’t notice they are exercising.

Chores Chores are a great way to get kids active and teach them the value of hard work at the same time. Ask your child to clean their room, vacuum, mow the lawn, or sweep. Consider paying them an allowance for more motivation. While team sports have many benefits, they are not for everyone. Kids who do not enjoy team sports don’t have to be less active. With these tips, kids will enjoy an active lifestyle that can be maintained for a lifetime. WP Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer and has been published in 20+ other parenting publications.

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FamilyCalendar

Thursday August 23

Ft. Rucker Color Run

Mom Tribe of Eufaula ($25 Individual; $50 to Sponsor

(Registration Fee: $25; Kids 12 & Under Free)

a Mom)

8:30 a.m. - 10:30 a.m., First United Methodist Church, 101 E. Barbour St. Eufaula, 36027 Join a group of moms to build your TRIBE in Eufaula! We will meet every other Thursday from 8:30—10:30 a.m. beginning August 23rd. Childcare will be provided! Visit www.fumceufaula.org/register for more information or to register. 334-687-8227 www.fumceufaula.org

Friday August 24

Scarecrow Making Workshop (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, 5130 Headland Ave. Dothan, 36303 Come to our FREE workshop for tips on how to make the best scarecrows for our 14th Annual Scarecrows in the Gardens, which will be on display throughout October. Entry deadline is Sept. 21. Call 334-7933224 with any questions. 334-793-3224 www.dabg.com

Saturday August 25

Martin Athletics Prep Camp ($50 (includes t-shirt)) 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., 8312 S Park Ave. Dothan, 36301 This camp is aimed at players 12 and up, looking to prepare for tryouts at their perspective schools. We will be covering Pitching, Hitting, Situational Awareness, as well as, Strength and Conditioning. (334) 790-0384 www.martinathletics.com Wiregrass Open Martial Arts Championship

(Spectators $10; 8 & Under Free)

10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Enterprise High School, 1801 Boll Weevil Circle Enterprise, 36330 Open to all schools, styles and disciplines. Fair play and judging promised. 334-475-3899 www.mojukaikarate.com Going for the Gold (Donation) 3:00 p.m. Westgate Park, 501 Recreation Road Dothan, 36303 Join us August 25th at Westgate Park for the 5th Annual Going for the Gold fundraiser for Childhood Cancer. This year’s event will be loaded with great entertainment, food and a 5K run on the Westgate Trail. We would love to see you there to support the children and families that have, and are currently dealing with this terrible disease! All proceeds benefit the Developmental Therapeutics Program for Childhood Cancer Support. (334) 615-3500

Southside Sounds (Advance Tickets: Adults $15 & Kids Under 12 $5; Day of Tickets: Adults $20 & Kids Under 12 $8)

4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Music from AILEEN CLAYTON, ODDLY ENOUGH, and DAVID DALE & THE SALTWATER COWBOYS, all local bands, will provide the backdrop for an evening of laid back family fun, conversation, and memories. There will be a children’s area and food trucks on site. All proceeds go to fund programs, provide scholarships, and maintain the center. 334-699-2787 www.theculturalartscenter.org Back to School Glow Party ($10) 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Fun Factory, 1507 E. Park Ave. Enterprise, 36330 Kick the school year off with a party at Fun Factory the last Saturday of August. Everyone that comes will receive a free glow bracelet. Deck yourself out in neon, glow in the black light, light up, & glow stuff. We will also have some glow and light up stuff for sale. We will have games, door prizes, neon drinks, light up cotton candy, and more. You don’t want to miss this black light party!!! (334) 347-4442

Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

8:00 a.m. 11:00 a.m., Festival Fields, Ft. Rucker, 36362 THIS IS NOT A TIMED EVENT. Racers are encouraged to wear WHITE clothing for best color display. All participants will be doused in clouds of colored powder, made from a cornstarch base. It is highly recommended to have a towel in your vehicle to sit on for the drive home! The race route is a 2 mile loop. Event will begin on Festival Fields on Andrews Avenue. CHECKS AND CASH ONLY ON RACE DAY. (334) 255-1951 Chris Godber Live at The Uptown ($5 before 9, $10 after cover at the door)

8:00 p.m. The Uptown, 160 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Come on out to Dothan’s Jazz & Wine spot in downtown Dothan, AL for an intimate evening with Saxophonist, Chris Godber. Godber is a National Saxophone Artist who specializes in Smooth Jazz, Gospel & R&B. Chris will be doing a one man show with recognizable crowd favorites as well as his chart topping originals at The Uptown. (334) 699-1688 www.theuptowndothan.com Henry Cho Comedy Show ($25-$40) 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Returning to the Dothan Opera House, comedian Henry Cho. Henry’s clean comedy is so versatile that he can headline Vegas and then tour with Michael W. Smith in the same month. 334-615-3175 www.dothanciviccenter.org

Sunday August 26

Dracula Auditions 2:00 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Confront the legendary monster of Halloween with the story that started it all. SEACT is looking for 6 men and 2 women. The production will be staged at the Dothan Opera House Oct. 23-27. (334) 794-0400 www.seact.com Adult Skate ($10 Admission; $2 Standard Skates; $3 In-Line/Speed Skates)

7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., FunZone Skate Center, 465 Westgate Pkwy Dothan, 36303 For ages 18+. With DJ Smoke, full-service menu, and laser tag arena. (334) 678-7529 www.funzoneskatecenterdothan.com

Monday August 27

Dracula Auditions 6:30 p.m. Details August 26. (334) 794-0400 www.seact.com

Tuesday August 28

Dracula Auditions 6:30 p.m. Details August 26. (334) 794-0400 www.seact.com

Friday August 31

Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam (Tickets Start at $50) 2:00 p.m. Panama City Beach, 32407 Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam is a three-day celebration of sun, fun and country music. The sixth annual festical will provide the best of today’s country music for an audience of more than 15,000 people on the coast. Festivalgoers will stand on the white sugar sand beach and dip their toes in the water during the day and watch their favorite performers at night. www.gulfcoastjam.com

Chick Chat ($10) 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Harvest Church, 2727 Fortner St. Dothan, 36305 All preteen (4th-6th grade) girls and their moms are invited to join us for our annual Chick Chat Conference on Friday night, August 31, 2018 from 6:00pm to 9:00pm in the Worship Center. There will be a guest speaker, a time of worship led by an “all chick” band, styling tips, a fashion show, gift bags and more! 334-702-6555 www.harvestdothan.com Guided Paddle ($10 plus $5 Park Pass) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Enjoy a guided tour of our 80-acre lake under the stars. Pre-registration required. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds

Saturday September 1

Johnny Mack Brown Birthday Celebration ($4 Adults; $3 Kids)

10:00 a.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, 36303 Landmark Park will celebrate Dothan native and Western film star Johnny Mack Brown’s 114th birthday during the month of September with a double feature from the serial “Fighting Kit Carson.” Great for all ages! Each movie lasts about 30 minutes. Interpretive Center Auditorium. Free with paid gate admission. 334-794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com First Saturday Family Day (FREE) 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, 36303 Saturdays are the perfect day for children and families to explore WMA together. A free come-and-go art activity for kids of all ages is offered the first Saturday of every month. All supplies are provided and no preregistration is required. Each Saturday will feature a different project, and special additional activities are included some Saturdays. 334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org Coffee and Coloring (Free) 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, 36303 Join us for Adult Coffee and Coloring the first and third Sunday of the month. A time of relaxation, creativity and where friendships are made. All supplies are provided or bring your own. (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam (Tickets Start at $50) Details August 31. www.gulfcoastjam.com

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Minute to Win It ($5 Park Pass) 3:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, 39823 What can you accomplish in a minute? Come find out as our naturalist challenges you to complete tasks in under a minute. Meet at the day use amphitheater. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Brent and Sam Family Concert (Free) 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Faith Christian Center Ozark, 853 Lakeview Rd. Ozark, 36360 Truly an event for the entire family. Brent Vernon is singer, songwriter, ventriloquist, author, and illustrator. Come listen to him sing songs from his latest album and laugh along with him and his wonderful puppet Sam. We

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FamilyCalendar look forward to seeing you there. Free concert 334-443-0295 https://faithozark.church/ Kids Drive-In Movie ($5 Park Pass) 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, 39823 Need for speed? Join this snail as he races to the finish line at the Indianapolis 500. Each child will be given a “vehicle” to enjoy the movie. Admission is free. Concessions available. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds

Sunday September 2

Guided Museum Tour ($4 Adults; $3 Kids; Plus $5 Park Pass)

10:00 a.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, 39823 Join our naturalist for a guided tour of the museum and mounds to learn more about the previous inhabitants of Kolomoki. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Pepsi Gulf Coast Jam (Tickets Start at $50) Details August 31. www.gulfcoastjam.com Guided Afternoon Hike ($5 Park Pass) 3:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Join our naturalist for a leisurely 1.25 mile hike on the Trillium Trail. Meet at picnic shelter #3 in the day use area. Please wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Reptile Feeding ($4 Adults; $3 Kids) 4:00 p.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, 36303 Meet Indie our Eastern Indigo snake, along with our Corn snake and Grey Rat snake, and learn why these animals are important to the environment. Classroom. Held on Sunday of the first full weekend of each month. 334-794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Tuesday September 4

Mystery at Main: Book Club/Discussion Group

(Free) 1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co.

Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, 36303 Our Mystery Book Club/Discussion group meets once a month on the first Tuesday of each month. September’s book is “Imdemnity Only” by Sara Paretsky. (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Drawing and Art Lessons (free) 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, 36360 On the first and last Saturday mornings of the month, come learn drawing techniques and create something that is uniquely yours! The classes are FREE. 334-774-5480 www.odcpl.com Lego Club

(Free)

4:00 p.m. Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, 36360 “Everything is Awesome!” when you’re having fun at Lego Club! AND Lego Club now meets twice a month for twice the fun!! Join us on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 4pm for lots of Lego fun in our Children’s Room! If you love to build and create with Legos, then Lego Club is just for you! Join us for building challenges, games, and free play! All Legos are supplied and ages 5+ are invited to join

the fun! Younger children are invited with parental supervision! 334-774-5480 www.odcpl.com Paw Patrol LIVE To The Rescue ($19$106)

6:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Paw Patrol LIVE comes to the Dothan Civic Center September 4 and 5th. Adventure Bay’s Mayor Goodway is nowhere to be found on the day of the Great Adventure Bay Race against Foggy Bottom’s Mayor Humdinger. Ryder summons the pups to race in Mayor Goodway’s place! Using their unique skills and teamwork, the pups show “no job is too big, no pup is too small” as they make several heroic rescues on their race to the finish line. 334-615-3175 www.dothanciviccenter.org

Wednesday September 5

Paw Patrol LIVE To The Rescue ($19-$106) Details September 4.

Thursday September 6

Lego Builders Club (Free) 3:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd. Daleville, 36322 Come join us for some fun build challenges or you can enjoy some easy going freestyle building. It is sure to be a fun time for all, and best of all it is FREE! (334) 503-9119 dalevillepubliclibrary.com Shop and Stroll (Free) 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Main Street, Eufaula, 36027 Participating merchants will extend their hours, Farmer’s Market will be held at the Pavilion, Local Artists will show their work at select locations, Music, Sales, portraits and a whole lot of fun! It all begins June 7th and will be held every 1st Thursday through October! (334) 687-7099

Friday September 7

Foster Fest (Free) 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Downtown, Dothan, 36303 Foster Fest returns to downtown Dothan. Food and arts and crafts vendors will be set up from South Foster to North Foster at the Carver Museum. New this month, Foster Fest will be taking over South Saint Andrews Street, as well! There will be live music from three stages. “Chad Street” will be playing on North Foster; the LA Playboys will be on South Foster; and the Community Talent Stage will be near the clock tower. September’s Kids Zone will be “Going Gold” with proceeds going to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. 334-699-8118 www.downtowndothan.org Gopher Tortoise Program ($5 Park Pass) 6:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Meet at the Visitor Center to accompany our naturalist on an educational hike to learn more about the keystone species that calls Kolomoki home. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Art of Yoga ($10 Donation) 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, 36303 In partnership with yoga studio Mesuva Yoga Studio, WMA hosts Art of Yoga, a monthly yoga series taking place the first

Friday of every month. The Art of Yoga combines the therapeutic nature of art with the healing properties of yoga under the instruction of certified yogi Melissa Vair. Participants will be guided through an all-levels appropriate class held in the museum galleries. Please bring your own water bottle, yoga mat, and towel (if needed). 334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Saturday September 8

Cookies and Canvas “Four Seasons” ($20 Per 11x14 Canvas $30 Per 16x20 Canvas)

1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., All About Art, 100 S. Main St. Enterprise, 36330 For kids ages 17 and under. Class is designed to be a family experience, but kids 10 and up may be signed up to participate independently. Delicious Milky Moo’s Cookie Refreshments will be served as a part of the creative experience. Sign up in store, online, or by calling and paying over the phone. Contact us for more information. 334-348-2738 www.allaboutartstudio.com Splish Splash ($5 Park Pass) 1:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Cool off from the summer heat with water games. Meet at the day use amphitheater. Followed by games at 3:00 p.m. 229-724-2150 gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds 7th Annual Emergency Disaster Preparedness Fair & Safety Saturday (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Enterprise Civic Center, 2401 Neil Metcalf Rd. Enterprise, 36330 Coffee County CERT and Coffee County EMA join community disaster groups for a community education fair with vendors selling emergency products and offering educational seminars, demonstrations and exhibits related to disaster preparedness. https://www.enterpriseal.gov/ 9/11 Memorial Stair Climb 10:00 a.m. Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort, 11212 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, 32407 The Panama City Beach 9-11 Memorial Stair Climb Fundraiser started back in 2011 as a special way to remember the 10th Anniversary of the tragic events that happened on September 11 2001 and pays tribute to the lives that were lost on that day (Firefighters, EMS, Law Enforcement, Military, and civilians). All money raised goes towards the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and local First Responder projects. 850-235-4044 www.visitpanamacitybeach.com Johnny Mack Brown Birthday Celebration Details September 1. Motown Downtown (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Downtown, Enterprise, 36330 Motown comes Downtown as we roll back time to the 50’s and 60’s. Dance Contest with Cash pay out! Children’s village with over 50 games!!!! Beer and Wine outdoor garden! 334-348-2738 www.enterprisedowntown.org Operation Christmas Child: Shoebox Saturday (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Bluffton Baptist Church, 105 Broad St. Bluffton, 39824 Join us to hear about an OCC Trip to Malawi, Africa, What’s Beyond the Box, Packing Party Hosting Tips & Ideas, demos, idea sharing and collection goals. The first FIVE representatives to arrive and sign in will get 20 shoeboxes to help jump start their 2018 Packing! 229-641-2005 www.blufftonbaptist.org

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FamilyCalendar Toddler Tales: A Bad Case of the Stripes ($20) 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., All About Art, 100 S. Main St. Enterprise, 36330 Class is designed to be a family experience, with story time and a related art project for toddlers and their care givers. For ages 15 months to 4 years. Light toddler friendly refreshments will be provided. 334-348-2738 www.allaboutartstudio.com Dog Swim at Splash ($7/dog) 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., SPLASH! Pool & Play Park, Novosel St. Bldg 113 Ft. Rucker, 36362 Bring your dog to the Dog Days of Summer Dog Swim on Saturday, September 8 from 11:00 am – 2:00 pm, held at SPLASH! Pool and Spray Park. Registration is required to participate. For any additional information, please call the Fort Rucker Physical Fitness Center. (334) 255-2296 https://rucker.armymwr.com/calendar/event/dog-swim-splash/1905272/22730 Guided Evening Hike ($5 Park Pass) 6:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Join our naturalist for a leisurely 1.25 mile hike on the White Oak Trail. Meet at group shelter #2. Please wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Rummage & Bake Sale Fundraiser 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Madrid Senior Citizens Center, 760 Decatur Rd. Cottonwood, 36320 We are having a Rummage and Bake Sale to help benefit our transportation fund. Our bus isn’t in good shape and we’d like to work toward replacing it. Our sale will be INDOOR with AIR CONDITIONING so make plans to come see us. We are sure to have just what you need! (334) 677-3435 Fall Consignment Sale 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Perry Recreation Center, 240 James St. Ozark, 36360 Join us for a new and gently used children’s clothing sale at Perry Recreation Center in Ozark, AL on Saturday, Sept. 8 from 8:00 am until 1:00 pm. There will be children’s clothing, maternity clothing, children’s furniture and bedding, stroller/car seats, shoes, books, toys/games/movies, and some women’s/men’s clothing. (850) 694-0929

Sunday September 9

Guided Afternoon Hike ($5 Park Pass) 1:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Join our naturalist for a 3 mile hike on the Spruce Pine Trail. Please wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Axtion Air Sensory Night ($9.99) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Axtion Air Dothan, 3525 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, 36303 A special evening for children and families living with Autism, Downs Syndrome, Cerebral Palsy, ADD, ADHD, and other sensory disorders. These VIPs can enjoy all of the fun activities we have to offer in a safe, family friendly environment. We won’t play loud music or use whistles during this time, and our staff will be available to assist in a variety of ways. Tickets are only $9.99 per guest for 2 hours for this special event! (334) 446-5175 www.axtionair.com

Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

Monday September 10

Open Auditions: Grease 6:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Spanish Trail Playhouse, 680 2nd St. Chipley, 32428 Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: duck-tailed, hot-rodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gum-snapping, hip-shaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby sox and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical. Audition packets available 2 weeks prior to auditions. (850) 638-9113 www.spanishtrailplayhouse.com

Tuesday September 11 Open Auditions: Grease Details September 10.

Friday September 14

TGIF Kids Night Out ($25) 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Alabama Elite Gymnastics Academy, 210 Graceland Dr. Dothan, 36305 Parents, do you need a date night? Let AEGA keep the kids for you the second and fourth Friday of every month. 334-699-2342 https://www.alelite.com/ Kolomoki Mounds Movie Night ($5 Park Pass) 8:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, 39823 A friendly ghost who haunts a mansion in Maine suddenly falls in love. His mischevious uncles are out to find a way to riun the good time. Movie will be at picnic shelter #4. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Mike Epps Comedy Show ($47.33-$80.03) 8:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Mike Epps is generating an extraordinary amount of buzz among his peers for being not only one of the funniest comic actors in town, but also for his burgeoning dramatic talent. He will be live on the Dothan Civic Center stage for one night only of comedy. Doors open 7:00 p.m. For accessible seating, please call the Dothan Civic Center Box Office at (334) 615-3175. All tickets are non refundable, non exchangeable unless the event cancels. 334-615-3175 www.dothanciviccenter.org

Saturday September 15 Johnny Mack Brown Birthday Celebration Details September 1.

Coffee and Coloring (Free) 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, 36303 Join us for Adult Coffee and Coloring the first and third Sunday of the month. A time of relaxation, creativity and where friendships are made. All supplies are provided or bring your own. (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org Give One, Get One Blood Drive (free) 11:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Milky Moo’s, 158 E. Broadway St. Ozark, 36360 Emergency need!! Everyone who donates a pint of blood gets a free pint of ice cream!! 334-443-0222 milkymooicecream.com Guided Evening Hike ($5 Park Pass) 6:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Join our naturalist for a leisurely 1.25 mile hike on the White Oak Trail. Meet at group shelter #2. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds

Panama Jack Paddleboard Classic 7:00 a.m. Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort, Panama City Beach, 32407 Please join us at the Edgewater Beach Resort on September 15th for the 8th annual Panama Jack Pier to Pier Paddleboard Classic! Proceeds benefit Troy University Scholarship Fund, K9s for Warriors, and the National Breast Cancer Foundation. (850) 276-7089 Jack Day Community Festival 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Zion Chapel High School, 29256 Highway 87 Jack, 36346 Altrusa International of Jack, AL invites you to join us Saturday, September 15th, 2018 for our 15th Annual Jack Day Community Festival. We have Arts & Crafts, Food, Children’s Activities, Entertainment, Auction, and new this year a Car Show and the Cow Patty Drop. It’s fun for the whole family!! For more information or if you are interested in setting up a booth at this event, please contact Jennifer Gatlin (334.372.5817) or Britley Parker (334.300.6974).

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9:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Silver Wings Golf Course, 20067 Combat Rd. Ft. Rucker, 36362 Members of the National Women’s Golf Association (NWGA) will team up with golfers to play 36 holes. Teams will be comprised of 1 professional and 3 amateurs. Friday, September 14, golfers will have a practice round and enjoy a pairings party that evening at 5:00 p.m. Tournament play will begin Saturday. Entry fee includes tournament course fees, range balls, tee gifts, tournament meals, and prizes. Limited spots available, sign up today! Open to the Public. For more information please call the Silver Wings Golf Course. 334-255-0089 www.rucker.armymwr.com Santa’s Workshop Auditions ($50) 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Patti Rutland Jazz, 1077 W. Main St. Dothan, 36303 This past December, Santa’s Workshop was bigger and better than ever! Kids ages 6 and up are encouraged to audition for this favorite Christmas tradition of ours. Roles for children include gingerbread men, wrappers, cupcakes, bakers, south pole elves and many more! (334) 699-5044 pattirutlandjazz.com

Friday September 16

Gopher Tortoise Program ($5 Park Pass) 11:00 a.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Meet at the Visitor Center to accompany our naturalist on an educational hike to learn more about the keystone species that calls Kolomoki home. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Guided Afternoon Hike ($5 Park Pass) 3:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Join our naturalist for a leisurely 1.25 mile hike on the Trillium Trail. Meet at picnic shelter #3 in the day use area. Please wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds

Monday September 17

Schooners Lobster Festival & Tournament Schooners Last Local Beach Club, 5121 Gulf Dr. Panama City Beach, 32408 Schooners, The Last Local Beach Club, will host the 29th Annual Lobster Festival & Tournament September 17-23, 2018. The Schooners Lobster Festival & Tournament is recognized as the largest seven day lobster festival and tournament in the Southeast. With huge Local Lobsters on the weigh-in scales, fresh lobster prepared every mouth-watering way you can imagine, and

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FamilyCalendar the 18th Annual Schooners Sand Sculpting Contest, it is a HUGE event that draws thousands of divers and lobster fans from all over the Southeast. Lobster Tournament divers will be competing in a variety of categories including Spiny Lobster, Shovelnose Lobster and Big 6. Proceeds benefit the Florida Aquatic Marine Institute and the Toys For Kids Foundation. (850) 235-3555 www.schooners.com

Tuesday September 18 Lego Club (Free) Details September 4.

Schooners Lobster Festival & Tournament Details September 17.

Wednesday September 19

SEACT’s Mary Poppins Jr. ($20) 7:00 p.m. - 8:30 p.m., Dothan Opera House, 115 N St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 The jack-of-all trades, Bert, introduces us to England in 1910 and the troubled Banks family. Young Jane and Michael have sent many a nanny packing before Mary Poppins arrives on their doorstep. Using a combination of magic and common sense, she must teach them (and their parents) how to recapture the joy of childhood and family through magical and memorable adventures. Appropriate for all audiences. 334-794-0400 www.seact.com Schooners Lobster Festival & Tournament Details September 17.

Thursday September 20

Tee Off For Kids Golf Tournament (Individual

$150; Team $600)

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Highland Oaks Golf Course, 904 Royal Parkway Dothan, 36305 The 24th Annual Tee Off For Kids is a benefit for the Southeast Alabama Child Advocacy Center. This is a four person scramble with a shotgun start with Hole in One, Closest to the Pin and Longest Drive contests during play and a Putting Contest prior to start. Prizes will be awarded for 1st, 2nd and 3rd place net, as well as 1st place gross. 334-671-1799 southeastcac.org Lego Builders Club (Free) 3:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd. Daleville, 36322 Come join us for some fun build challenges or you can enjoy some easy going freestyle building. It is sure to be a fun time for all, and best of all it is FREE! (334) 503-9119 dalevillepubliclibrary.com Low Country Boil ($50 per Person; $5 Kids; $500 Table of 8) 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, 36303 A great way to end the summer with plenty of music, food, and fun while raising funds for Landmark Park. Includes a silent auction, wagon rides and hot dogs for the kids and music by Brian Hart. Advance tickets required. 334-794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com SEACT’s Mary Poppins Jr. ($20) Details September 19. Thirsty Third Thursday ($40) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Ohana Smoothie Bar, 621 Boll Weevil Circle Enterprise, 36330 Come and enjoy a 20

oz smoothie and the craft of the month for only $40. Price includes all materials needed and the smoothie of your choice. Bring your own additive to make a frozen cocktail if you want! 334-348-2738 www.allaboutartstudio.com Screen on the Green (Free) 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, 36303 WMA presents “Loving Vincent” in the museum’s garden at 7:30 p.m. Bring lawn chairs or a blanket. Local food trucks and vendors will be on site selling refreshments, and WMA will provide free popcorn. The museum’s galleries will be open at 6:00 p.m. In case of inclement weather, movies will be shown in WMA’s Great Hall. 334-794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org HIPPY Field Trip (Free) 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, 36303 HIPPY group meetings are geared towards families with 3 and 4 year old children. The meetings are open to the public. You do not need to be registered in the HIPPY program to attend, though we do need you to RSVP by calling 334-792-6255. 334-792-6255 Schooners Lobster Festival & Tournament Details September 17.

Friday September 21 SEACT’s Mary Poppins Jr. ($20) Details September 19.

Schooners Lobster Festival & Tournament Details September 17.

Saturday September 22

Johnny Mack Brown Birthday Celebration Details September 1. For You We Ride (Rider $25; Passenger $15) 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Harley Davidson of Dothan, 2418 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, 36301 Fundraiser benefiting breast cancer assistance charities. 334-792-0063 www.foryouweride.com SEACT’s Mary Poppins Jr. ($20) Details September 19. Minute to Win It ($5 Park Pass) 3:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, 39823 What can you accomplish in a minute? Come find out as our naturalist challenges you to complete tasks in under a minute. Meet at the day use amphitheater. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Guided Evening Hike ($5 Park Pass) 6:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Join our naturalist for a 3 mile hike on the Spruce Pine Trail. Please wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Women’s Night of Worship ($5) 6:00 p.m. Blakely Church of God, 21862 Lucille Road Blakely, 39823 We will have food, laughter, fellowship but most of all a wonderful night to worship Jesus Christ! The evening begins at 6:00 p.m. with heavy finger food. The service will start at 7:00. Dee Barker from Atlanta is the guest speaker. Tonya Spence and the Blakely COG Praise Team will lead worship, and the Bainbridge COG Youth Drama Team will perform. The meal is $5 per person and can be paid at the door. You don’t have to eat to attend the service. (229) 724-7232

Light Up the Night 5K Run/Walk ($15 Donation) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Police Memorial Park, Ozark, 36360 Join the Carroll High School Volleyball team for the LIGHT UP THE NIGHT glow-in-the-dark 5K Run/Walk fundraiser. Get creative and dress in your best and brightest glow attire! There will be awards, track prizes & fun! Most of the course is asphalt and grass on a winding trail through the soccer and softball complex. We will run this course rain or shine so come prepared. SEACT’s Mary Poppins Jr. ($20) Details September 19. Spartan Fest 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., Culpepper Park, Daleville, 36322 What started as a softball tournament between 223rd Aviation and City of Daleville employees has turned into a full-fledged festival! In addition to softball, Spartan Fest will feature a food competition complete with a tasting for only $10. There will be arts and crafts, live music, and children’s activities. All at the newly-renovated Culpepper Park! (334) 598-6331 84 A Tribute to Van Halen The Plant, 308 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Mark your calendars for the night of Saturday 9/22! 84 A Tribute to Van Halen will be making their Dothan debut at The Plant. Steve Hall Productions has a HUGE show planned for you and we are excited to bring Van Halen your way! 334-673-4313 www.theplantdothan.com Schooners Lobster Festival & Tournament Details September 17.

Saturday September 23

Guided Morning Hike ($5 Park Pass) 10:00 a.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Join our naturalist for a leisurely 1.25 mile hike on the White Oak Trail. Meet at group shelter #2. Please wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Axtion Air Sensory Night ($9.99) Details September 9. Schooners Lobster Festival & Tournament Details September 17.

Saturday September 25

Wednesday September 26

DAYP Meet & Mingle 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Barberitos, 100 Apple Ave #6 Dothan, 36303 DAYP meets once a month at lunch for a “Meet & Mingle”. A local area restaurant (chamber member) will be selected to at that day. All DAYP members are invited to attend. For September we will meet at Barberitos during lunch hours from 11am-1pm. www.dothanyp.com

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FamilyCalendar Thursday September 27

Merchants of London ($36.95-$39.95) 6:30 p.m. Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, 36330 The 19th century was a time when London was transformed into the world’s largest trade city. Come see the quirky merchants that helped London grow into a political, financial, and business powerhouse. You never know what mysteries and surprises are in store when these merchants lives become intertwined with each other and their customers. The menu features 3 courses. (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com The Odd Couple: The Female Version ($10) 7:00 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Unger and Madison are at it again! Florence Unger and Olive Madison, that is, in Neil Simon’s hilarious contemporary comic classic: the female version of The Odd Couple. Instead of a poker party that begins the original version, Ms. Madison has invited all the girls over for an evening of Trivial Pursuit. See the true value in friendship. www.sparktheatercompany.com

Friday September 28

3rd Annual Bridge Fest ($20 at the Door; Poker Run $15 plus $5 per rider)

2:00 p.m. Two High Saloon, 3042 Highway 92 Clayhatchee, 36322 A music festival and poker run benefitting local veterans and children. There will be live music featuring Mustang Sally, food and vendors. Camping is available. 19 to enter, 21 to drink. Presale tickets available. (334) 498-4020 www.twohighsaloon.com Oktoberfest 4:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Festival Fields, Ft. Rucker, 36362 Fort Rucker’s 16th Annual Oktoberfest features live German music by Sonnenschein Express, traditional German food including bratwurst and schnitzel, German beer, keg toss competition, Car Show and a good time to be had! At this familyfriendly event there are also inflatables for the children, a pumpkin patch, craft activities and more! (334) 255-1749 https://rucker.armymwr.com/categories/community-events Ice Cream in a Bag ($2) 6:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Shake up your Saturday with handmade ice cream in a bag. All basic ingredients will be provided. Feel free to bring your own toppings. Meet at the day use amphitheater. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds TGIF Kids Night Out ($25) 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Alabama Elite Gymnastics Academy, 210 Graceland Dr. Dothan, 36305 Parents, do you need a date night? Let AEGA keep the kids for you the second and fourth Friday of every month. 334-699-2342 https://www.alelite.com/ Merchants of London ($36.95-$39.95) Details September 27. The Odd Couple: The Female Version ($10) Details September 27. Riley Green Concert ($20) 8:00 p.m. The Plant, 308 N. St. Andews St. Dothan, 36303 Riley Green and the Outlaws Like Us Tour with special guest Troy Cartwright. Doors open at 7:00

Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

p.m. The show begins at 8:00. Ages 16+. Tickets are $20 in advance. Available online at ticketmaster.com. 334-673-4313 www.theplantdothan.com Extreme Lock-In Party ($30) Midnight - 7:00 a.m., Xtreme Air Trampoline Park, 441 Nypro Lane Dothan, 36305 Xtreme Air Trampoline Park hosts a lock-in party for ages 8-18 the last Friday of every month from midnight to 7:00 a.m. A police officer will be present. (334) 797-5867 www.xtremeairtrampolinepark.com

Saturday September 29

Johnny Mack Brown Birthday Celebration ($4 Adults; $3 Kids)

Details September 1. 334-794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com Out of Darkness Community Walk (Free but

donations accepted)

10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Northview High School, 3209 Reeves St. Dothan, 36303 When you participate in the Out of the Darkness Walks, you join the effort with hundreds of thousands of people to raise awareness and funds that allow the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention (AFSP) to invest in new research, create educational programs, advocate for public policy, and support survivors of suicide loss. 334-547-5120 afsp.donordrive.com Time Warp 2018/Nostalgia Night Series ($15;

12 & Under Free)

10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., Cottonwood Dragway, 222 Bud Moore Rd. Cottonwood, 36320 Annual Nostalgia / Time Warp Drag Races Featuring All Your Favorite Golden Oldies. Heads-Up Racing Like Your Dad and Grand Dad Did Back in The ‘60s. (334) 355-0543 http://cottonwooddragway.com/ Your State Parks Day (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, 39823 Help us spruce up the park in time for the Kolomoki Festival. Meet at the visitor center. There will be jobs from cleaning windows to washing boats to picking up trash. Everyone is welcome whether you can join for 30 min or the entire time. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Splish Splash ($5 Park Pass) 3:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Cool off from the summer heat with water games. Meet at the day use amphitheater. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Guided Evening Hike ($5 Park Pass) 6:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Join our naturalist for a leisurely 1.25 mile hike on the Trillium Trail. Meet at picnic shelter #3 in the day use area. Please wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds Merchants of London ($36.95-$39.95) Details September 27. Headland Harvest Festival 5K & Fun Run (5K

- $25 with shirt; $20 no shirt/ Fun Run - $15 with shirt; $10 no shirt) 7:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Headland Square -

Gazebo, 36345 Run or walk through beautiful downtown Headland during the Headland Harvest Run, a 5K Race and 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk, Saturday, Sept. 29. Registration begins at 7am in the gazebo on the square. The 5K Run begins at 8am, the 1-Mile Fun Run/Walk begins at 9am. The wheeled, level course

winds through downtown and residential areas. The Harvest Run is a part of the Headland Harvest Festival activities and benefits the Headland High School Cross-Country Team. 334-693-3303 www.headlandal.org Charlie Daniels Band in Concert ($39-$49) 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36303 Come hear a great evening of music. All ages welcome but must have a ticket. From his Dove Award winning Gospel albums to his genre-defining Southern rock anthems and his CMA Award-winning country hits, few artists have left a more indelible mark on America’s musical landscape than Charlie Daniels. 334-615-3175 www.dothanciviccenter.org Distinguished Young Women Program ($17) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, 36301 The 2018 Houston County Distinguished Young Women program will be held at the Dothan Opera House. Seniors in high school will compete for thousands of dollars in college scholarships. The participants in the program will be judged on their scholastic merits, interview abilities, talent of choice, health and wellness, poise, and on-stage presence. 334-798-1108 distinguishedyw.org The Odd Couple: The Female Version ($10) Details September 27. Annual Bull Run 5k and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run

(5K - $20 Pre-Registration, $25 Race Day; Fun Run - $15 PreRegistration, $20 Race Day)

8:00 a.m. Middlebrooks Park, 612 US-90 Bonifay, 32425 The Bonifay Kiwanis Club presents the Annual Bull Run 5k and 1 Mile Kids Fun Run. It will begin at Middlebrooks Park in Bonifay, Fl with registration starting at 6:30 a.m. The 5k race will promptly begin at 8:00 am. The 3.1 mile course is a slightly challenging run with a few nice inclines a turn around at the halfway mark including a water stop, and the run finishes with a downhill sprint to the finish! 850-373-5003 www.bonifaykiwanisrodeo.com EFUMC Cheer Camp 2018 ($15) 8:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., Enterprise First United Methodist Church, 217 S. Main St. Enterprise, 36330 Cheerleading is a huge part of sporting events at all levels of play. When athletes need encouragement and fans need entertainment, cheerleaders can take your sports experience to another level because they add excitement and spirit to any Upward Game Day! We look forward to having you with us! Cheer Camp 2018 is $15 per person and is a great way to kick off the Upward Sports season. For ages K-6th Grade. (334) 347-3467 www.efumc.com Geneva Co. Ducks Unlimited Skeet Shoot and Tournament (Adult $50; Youth $25) 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., 8030 N. Hwy 27 Chancellor, 36316 Spend a day of fun testing your skills at our first annual skeet shoot. Prizes, uncluding guns, coolers, and Drake Hunting Packages will be awarded to top shooters. Bring your own guns and shells. There will be food and non-alchoholic drinks for sale, and televisions showing the game of the day. Come out and help support Wetlands Conservation with your local chapter. https://www.ducks.org/

www.wiregrassparents.com

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FamilyCalendar 3rd Annual Bridge Fest ($20 at the Door; Poker Run $15 plus $5 per rider)

Two High Saloon, 3042 Highway 92 Clayhatchee, 36322 A music festival and poker run benefitting local veterans and children. There will be live music featuring Mustang Sally, food and vendors. Camping is available. 19 to enter, 21 to drink. (334) 498-4020 www.twohighsaloon.com

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Guided Afternoon Hike ($5 Park Pass) 3:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mound Rd. Blakely, 39823 Join our naturalist for a 3 mile hike on the Spruce Pine Trail. Please wear closed-toe shoes and bring water. 229-724-2150 https://gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds

short stories being discussed are from the Collection, “Growing Up in the South: An Anthology of modern Southern Literature.” (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Every Thursday in September

Popcorn and ASL Movie Night (Free) 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., AIDB Dothan Regional Center, 111 Medical Drive Dothan, 36303 Different movie each Thursday in September. Movies are in closed caption and American Sign Language. Come enjoy fellowship and experience true movie watching. 334-677-6270 www.aidb.org/dothan

Special Needs Sunday ($15) 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Xtreme Air Trampoline Park, 441 Nypro Lane Dothan, 36305 The last Sunday of every month we will open the park for Special needs kids and adults from 6pm to 8pm. Cost: $15 for 2 hours and free socks. (334) 797-5867 www.xtremeairtrampolinepark.com

Tail Waggin’ Tutors (Free) 10:00 a.m. & 4:30 p.m. Ozark-Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, 36360 Tail Waggin’ Tutors meets every Thursday at 10:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. It allows reluctant readers to enjoy reading in a relaxed, judgement free, and “dog-friendly” atmosphere! Children pick out a book and pair up with a dog to read aloud to without the added stress or pressure of being judged! Come meet Koda, Frankie, and several other furry friends - they’re excited about reading and can’t wait to see you!

Every Tuesday in September

Every Friday in September

Adult Coffee & Coloring (Free) 10:00 a.m. Headland Public Library, 17 Park St. Headland, 36345 Join us for Adult Coffee and Coloring EVERY Tuesday @ 10:00 AM. A time of relaxation, creativity and where friendships are made. All materials are provided or you are welcome to bring your own!! (334) 693-2706 www.headlandlibrary.org Toddler Tales (Free) 10:30 a.m. Lucy Hilton Maddox Memorial Library, 11880 Columbia St. Blakely, 39823 Bring your toddler to story time Tuesday mornings at the Lucy Hilton Maddox Memorial Library. There will be music and crafts. For children under the age of 5. (229) 723-3079 GP Quilters (Free) 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Grace Place Church, 5730 Shellfield Rd Enterprise, 36330 Get together with other quilters of ALL skill levels, male and female, to create and construct colorful quilts for infirmed and homebound members or friends who will enjoy them. Just bring your sewing machine or willingness to help! (334) 347-5214 www.mygpchurch.com

Every Wednesday in September Artist Escape (Free) 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Rudd Art Center, 144 E. Broad St. Ozark, 36360 Stop by the Ann Rudd Art Center any Wednesday and make art with us. Artists come and go between 11:00 and 2:00. All skill levels welcome. 334-445-6526 www.ruddartcenter.org

Far Out Friday (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Lucy Hilton Maddox Memorial Library, 11880 Columbia St. Blakely, 39823 Science for children ages 6-12. (229) 723-3079

Every Saturday in September

Pokemon League (Free) 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, 36360 Pokémon players of all ages and skill levels are invited to join us every Saturday from 1pm-4pm for Pokémon League in the Library’s West Wing! And don’t forget, the Library is a PokéStop for Pokémon Go, so come on by and join us for some Pokémon fun! Look for our league - ODCPL League - on pokemon.com! 334-774-5480 www.odcpl.com

Every Sunday in September

Chess Club (Free) 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main, 416 James St. Dothan, 36303 Meets every Sunday at the Dothan-Houston County Library’s main branch. All chess boards and pieces provided. (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Classes

Club STEAM (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd. Daleville, 36322 A fun and free afterschool science program for grades 5-8. Learn about different fields of science and engineering through fun hands-on experiments program funded by a grant from the Wiregrass Foundation. Please register at the Daleville Public Library. (334) 503-9119 www.dalevillepubliclibrary.com

Art

Short Story Reading Group (Free) 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, 36303 Our Short Story Discussion group meets every Wednesday from 2:00 pm to 4:00 PM at our Main Branch. Current

Arts & Crafts Weekly Classes Ft. Rucker Arts & Crafts Center offers a variety of classes for all ages. For more info about any of the following, visit https://rucker.armymwr.com/programs/arts-crafts-center.

Artist Escape @ Rudd Art Center (Ozark) 11 a.m.-2 p.m. come-and-go on Wednesdays. Dowling Museum Ann Rudd Art Center, 144 E. Broad Street, Ozark. No cost and all skills are welcome. Pack up your art materials and join us! If you need technique or inspiration, advice is free too. We paint draw, cut and paste, share ideas, stories and artsy odds and ends. Call (334) 445-6526 or visit www.ruddartcenter.org/.

Toddler Tales Art Classes 10 a.m. 1st Saturdays. All About Art, 100 South Main Street, Enterprise. For kids 15 months to 4 years and their caregivers. Class is designed to be a family experience, with story time and a related art project for toddlers and their caregivers. Light toddler-friendly refreshments will be provided. Cost is $20 per child. Sign up in store, at www.allaboutartstudio.com or by calling (334) 348-2738 and paying over the phone. Private party times available. Min. of 10 people required. Private party groups can pick any painting from our archives or current paintings. Youth Art Classes 4-5:30 p.m. September 11, 18 and 25. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue, Dothan. Join us for three classes that focus on artwork on display in the galleries. Students will learn about a new work of art each week by discussing the artist and how it was created, as well as sharing thoughts on the work in a sketchbook made by each student. After learning about the artwork, students will have the opportunity to create their own unique work of art using the same process as the artist. Pre-registration is required by the first Saturday of the month. Cost: $45 members; $55 non-members. Call (334) 7943871 or register at www.wiregrassmuseum.org.

Choral Classes

Una Voce is a community choir for children in grades 5-8,that is in residence at the Cultural Arts Center on St. Andrews St. in Dothan. Membership in Una Voce is a commitment to faithful, consistent and punctual attendance. It is expected that both rehearsals and performances will take a very high priority in each child’s life. Auditions will be held Tuesday, August 14, starting at 4:15 p.m. You will perform the piece “My Country ‘Tis of Thee” for your audition piece. Then you will move to learn a piece of choreography to “Life Is Good.” Cost is $20 a month or $100 for fall session. Please visit www. theculturalartscenter.org for details.

Computer & Technology

Free Basic Computer Classes Saturdays at 9 a.m. at Ozark Dale Co. Library. You’ll learn the basics of using your computer, the internet, e-mail, Microsoft Office and more! Registration is not required. Free Tech Classes Fridays from 2-3 p.m. at Ozark Dale Co. Library. We can help you with your smart phone, tablet or your e-reader! Please bring your device to the class. Registration is not required.

Dance

Ballroom Dance Classes 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Dothan Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan. Come learn the basic steps of a new ballroom dance each month with a few of the pros who love to social dance. Hosted by Bill Dempsey, Dothan Ballroom Dance Club will offer dance lessons for $2 per person per night. No partner needed. For more info, call (334) 791-9407 or visit www.dothanballroomdanceclub.com. Line Dancing 7-8 p.m. Tuesdays. Dothan Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan. A great class for beginners who want to learn MORE about line dancing. Come 10 minutes early to sign in and pay and wear shoes that slide easily on the floor. No partner needed. $5 per person per night. For more info, call (334) 701-5261 or visit www.theculturalartscenter.org.

Gardening

Master Gardener Training Course 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Dale County Extension Office. Classes are taught by Auburn

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Support Groups & Classes University and extension specialists, regional extension agents, and certified Master Gardeners. Fifty hours of volunteer service is required to become a Certified Master Gardener. Cost of the course is $135 by August 1, after which price increases to $150. For more info, call (334) 774-2329.

Science & Engineering

Club STEAM Powered for Grades 5-8 3:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd, Daleville. A fun and free afterschool science program. Learn about different fields of science and engineering through fun hands-on experiments. Program funded by a grant from the Wiregrass Foundation. Please register at the Daleville Public Library. Call (334) 503-9119 or e-mail dalevillepubliclibrary@troycable.net.

Yoga

Art of Yoga 9-10 a.m. First Fridays. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue, Dothan. In partnership with Mesuva Yoga Studio, the Art of Yoga combines the therapeutic nature of art with the healing properties of yoga under the instruction of certified yogi Melissa Vair. For more info, call (334) 794-3871 or visit www.mesuva.org. Weekly Evening Yoga 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays. The Herbal Toad, 120 North Court Square, Ozark. Certified yoga instructor, Alexandra Locklear. $5/class. Bring your own mat and bottled water, and a yoga block if you have one. For more info, call (334) 714-9503 or visit Theherbaltoad.com.

Support Groups Cancer

I’m 2 Young 4 Breast Cancer 6-7:30 p.m. Third Tuesdays each month. Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) Women’s Center, third floor. For more info, contact Ladonna Danford at (334) 699-8111, ext. 8459. The Pink Ambassadors 11 a.m.-1 p.m. First Fridays (except January, July and September) Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) Doctors Building, 7th floor Conference Room. For info, call (334) 712-3336 or 1-800-735-4998. US-TOO Prostate Cancer (Wiregrass Chapter) 6 p.m. First Thursdays, except July and January. Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) 7th floor Doctors Building. For more info, call (334) 793-8107.

Divorce

Divorce Recovery Support Group 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Meets at Calvary Baptist Church, 901 Montezuma Ave., Dothan, Room 209. You are invited to join us at any time during the semester. Child care available. Cost is $15 and includes workbook. For more info, call (334) 792-5159 or visit www.calvarydothan.com/divorcecare/.

Domestic Violence

Domestic Violence Survivors Called group meets on Thursdays from 9-10:30 a.m. The Exchange Center, 102 Morgan Street, Dothan. This is an open group, for survivors of domestic violence. For more info, call (334) 671-1966 or visit www.exchangecap.org or find us on Facebook (ExchangeCAP).

Grief Support

Bethel Baptist GriefShare 6-7:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Meets at Bethel Baptist Church, 3257 E Cottonwood Rd, Dothan, Room 502. GriefShare is a special weekly seminar and support

Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

group for people who are grieving the death of someone close to them. You are welcome to begin attending at any point in our 13-week cycle. Each session is “selfcontained,” so you do not have to attend in sequence. Note: please park in rear of the church and enter at family life center. Follow blue signs! Child care available. Cost is $15 and includes workbook. For more info, call (334) 792-5908 or visit http://bbcdothan.org/. Covenant Care Grief Support Group 5 p.m. every Thursday from Sept. 8 through Oct. 13, Ridgecrest Baptist Church, Dothan. Covenant care Bereavement Coordinator January McKeithan helps those who have lost a loved one in processing their grief and finding hope. Call (334) 350-6718 to register, or https:// choosecovenant.org/event/grief-support-group-6-weeksdothan/ for more info.

Stroke 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 3rd Thursdays each month (except November). Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) Doctors Building, 7th floor Conference Room. For more info, call Sharon Bidwell at (334) 793-8726, ext. 5.

Pain Management

AMPed Up Amputee Support Group Noon, 1st Thursday. Southeast Alabama Medical Center Rehab Services building, Neurobalance Center, 1480 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan. For info, call (334) 712-3726. Pain 10-11 a.m. Last Tuesdays each month. Southeast Pain Management Center. For more info, call Sonya Jordan at (334) 796-1732.

Illness Support

ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis or Lou Gehrig’s Disease) 3 p.m. first Tuesdays. Newton Baptist Church, Newton. For more info, contact Melissa Enfinger at (334) 3123328 or Melissa@alsalabama.org. Alzheimer’s Caregiver Support Group Meetings 7 p.m. first Mondays of each month. First United Methodist Church, Dothan. Marie Flowers Room. Park in the front left parking lot. Enter through the door on the left behind the circular driveway (behind the rose garden). Facilitator: Will Coggins. For more info, call (334) 702-2273 or (334) 794-7965. **Please note: This support group meets regardless if it is a holiday or not. Sometimes the holidays are the hardest for caregivers.** Better Breathers 10 a.m. Third Tuesdays except during summer months each month. Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) Doctors Building, 7th floor Conference Room. For more info, call (334) 793-8025. Caring Hearts Meets quarterly on 3rd Wednesdays of these months: March, June, September, December. Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) Doctors Building, 7th floor Conference Room. For more info, call (334) 793-8025. Crowns of Glory (formerly Hang In There) For parents of children with disabilities and illnesses. 6 p.m. on 4th Saturdays, every other month (Feb, April, June, August, Oct, Dec) Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) Auditorium Conference Room. For more info, contact Lisa Patterson at (334) 793-1044. Diabetes Support 3-4:30 p.m. Quarterly 3rd Tuesdays. Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) Women’s Center, 1st floor-Diabetes Treatment Center Classroom. For more info, call (334) 793-8854 or 1-800-223-0843. Dothan Patient & Family Support Volunteer Training Workshop 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 26. 1512 W Main St., Dothan. Are you looking for a volunteer opportunity that will give you a sense of purpose and worthwhile work? Support hospice patients & families; serve bereaved family members; provide administrative & clerical support; assist with fundraising or community outreach efforts; give loving support to Covenant Care Kids; honor veteran patients; and care for Alzheimer’s patients and caregivers. For more info or to register, contact Donna at (850) 482-8520 or e-mail to donna.meldon@choosecovenant.org. Parkinson’s Support Noon, 3rd Tuesdays each month (except summers). Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) Rehab Services building, 1480 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan. For more info, call Haley McNeal at (334) 793-8961.

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Parenting/Pregnancy

Breastfeeding 10 a.m.-noon. 1st & 3rd Thursdays. Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) Women’s Center, 2nd floor Conference Room C. For more info, call (334) 673-4141. Dothan Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPs) 10:30-noon mostly 1st and 3rd Tuesdays (Sept. 4 & 18). Harvest Church, 2727 Fortner St., Dothan. For more info, visit www.harvestdothan.com/mops or e-mail dothanmops@gmail.com. Wiregrass Hope Group Pregnancy Resources Wiregrass Hope Pregnancy Center offers compassionate care and practical support to women and families facing a planned or unplanned pregnancy. All of our services are provided at no cost to our clients. To make an appointment for a pregnancy test, an ultrasound, or to find out any other info, please call (334) 793-0002 or e-mail appointments@wiregrasshope.com. Also visit www. wiregrasshopepregnancycenter.com.

Post-Traumatic Stress (PTSD)

Tuesdays from 5-6:30 p.m. in the Fort Rucker Spiritual Life Center in Bldg. 8939 on Red Cloud Road. The group follows the Veterans Affairs protocol PTSD Recovery Program and is for anyone interested in learning more about PTSD. For more info, call 255-3903.

Special Needs

Autism Support Group For meeting location and time, call Fran Heisner at (334) 793-8714 or e-mail fcheisner@samc.org.

Please send your calendar events to editor@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.

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Dog Days

The Meg

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B+ Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: B Alcohol / Drug Use: C Dog Days is an ensemble movie that tells five different (sometimes inter-related) stories about how pets bring people together in romantic relationships and friendship, through community involvement. As one character says, “Dogs open their hearts to us – to love and be loved. And I find that beautiful.” Its biggest weakness is that once the characters are introduced and their situations explained, it is obvious how the plot lines are going to turn out. Despite its predictability, there is a lot to like or even love about pooch picture. It is an unashamedly feel-good-happy-ending kind of movie. There are a handful of sad moments (including the death of a dog), but these are quickly swamped by the blossoming relationships between the open-hearted, kind, helpful people that populate the film. For most viewers, the real stars of Dog Days will be the canine characters. They are all appealing, but Gertrude the chihuahua has an extra dollop of charm. Also irresistible are Mabel the pug and Charlie the giant drooling furball. Parents will be relieved to know that there are few things to worry about in this film. There are only a handful of mild profanities and terms of deity. Alcohol is consumed in two scenes – one in a bar and one at a baby shower where the father-to-be is slamming back wine to handle the stress. The biggest red flag involves a marijuana brownie which is eaten by Charlie, resulting in a trip to the vet and comic scenes of a very stoned dog. The word “marijuana” is never mentioned – the vet speaks in code about “glaucoma medicine” so children should be completely oblivious to what is actually going on here.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: C Sexual Content: B+ Profanity: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: B In the depths of the Pacific Ocean lurks a sharp-toothed predator, ready to chomp on your desire to go swimming this summer! When a deep-sea research station, funded by Morris (Rainn Wilson) and operated by Zhang (Winston Chao) and his daughter, Suyin (Bingbing Lao), discovers a lower level of the ocean, they encounter some unexpected creatures. After their submersible pod is damaged, it is up to Jonas Taylor (Jason Statham), a burned-out rescue diver with a dark past, to save the crew from what lies beneath. Fortunately, the monsters of the deep are contained by a band of icy water near the ocean floor...for now. As you might expect from a movie about a 75-foot-long prehistoric shark (the Megalodon), there is a lot of blood and gore. Dismembered limbs, an accidental stabbing, and various injuries associated with damaged ships and submarines are seen throughout. However, the violence is not overly gratuitous and is used mostly to further the plot. The sexual content is even less of an issue. One sexual pun is made between several adult characters, and Jason Statham is seen without his shirt. And, for such an intense movie, there is less profanity than expected, although you will hear frequent mild swear words, terms of deity and scatological slang, along with a couple of moderate curses. All in all, The Meg is well placed at PG-13, and it markets itself to that demographic of teenagers and young adults. If your teen is especially sensitive to suspense or violence, this may be one to avoid. However, more thick-skinned viewers may enjoy taking a bite out of this thriller from the deep.

Mamma Mia! Here We Go Again!

Mission Impossible: Fallout

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: B+ Sexual Content: C+ Profanity: B+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C It has been ten years since the last Mamma Mia movie. Although we are not sure how much time has passed for the characters, we do know one thing: A year has gone by since the death of Donna (Meryl Streep). During that time, her daughter Sophie (Amanda Seyfried) has devoted herself to fulfilling mom’s dream of turning their little piece of Greece into an upscale hotel. We know, because of the pervious film, that Donna will encounter and have a sexual fling with three young men who will all be potential candidates as Sophie’s father. And the fun of this sequel is supposed to be meeting the young Sam (Jeremy Irvine), Harry (Hugh Skinner) and Bill (Josh Dylan), and learning how these romances came to be. The other entertainment, intentional or otherwise, is seeing how the writers of this musical have worked various ABBA classics into the script. While the editing between Donna’s past and Sophie’s present is creatively accomplished, the challenge still remains of excusing the characters’ promiscuous behavior – even though the one-night-stands are implied rather than shown. Yet what Mamma Mia 2 does do well is showing the importance of family ties. Despite the fairytale nature of the congenial Dads and their attitudes over paternity, this second visit to the sun-kissed island has fewer sexual moments and innuendo than the first and proves unexpectedly emotional in its portrayal of the bond between parents and children.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: C Sexual Content: AProfanity: C Alcohol / Drug Use: A Mission Impossible: Fallout has roared into theatres to widespread excitement and breathless reviews. The sixth in the franchise, it follows Impossible Missions Force agent Ethan Hunt (Tom Cruise) in his attempts to save the world from yet another cataclysmic act of terror. Given that this franchise isn’t exactly new, viewers are likely to have a pretty good idea of what this movie is going to deliver. In fact, aficionados will probably be able to pick up the plot from the poster or trailer. That’s not to say this isn’t a fun action romp: it is the prototypical action movie. Explosions, breathtaking stunts, stunning location shots and larger-than-life megalomaniacal villains are the soup du jour of this nearly two and a half hour long thrill ride. Compared to other offerings in the action genre, beside violent depictions, there are few other concerns. Profanity is infrequent except for one intense action sequence which tripled the money in my swear jar. The treatment of women here is also a refreshing change – instead of being bimbos in bikinis whose role is to be eye candy, these female characters are strong, fully clothed women with careers, goals, and minds of their own. Other positive messages include a commitment to the rights of individuals, the importance of teamwork and loyalty, and accepting what life gives you. Parents considering Mission: Impossible – Fallout for family viewing should be aware that the PG-13 rating is fully merited: this film is not suitable for children. 43

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WP: Routine is important for any family, but sometimes we all need a change of pace. What’s something you do with your family to shake things up a bit? Julie: When it all gets to be too much and we need to put everyday life on pause, we like to get out of town. Whether it be a vacation or just a day trip, we get out and just have a little fun. Making memories is important business and it’s hard to remember to do that when all you see around you are loads of laundry waiting to be done. Laundry can wait. Babies don’t keep.

Julie Gonzalez

WP: For you, what is the most rewarding part about being a mom?

WP: Your job with the Wiregrass Food Bank is all about helping others. What impacts have you seen in your family’s life?

Julie: The best part of being a mom is having the blessing of seeing your children become good people who love God and love others, and to know that you had a part in teaching them to make those choices. WP: It’s back to school time. Does your family have a backto-school tradition? Or maybe you’ve got a time-saving hack other parents could benefit from knowing?

Julie: Working for the Wiregrass Area Food Bank has had a tremendous impact on our family. When you work for a non-profit, helping others becomes the family business. It’s so much more than a job. I’ve been blessed by being able to include my family in my work. Our girls could probably plan a food drive or a fundraiser better than me. They’ve spent years watching me do what I do and working alongside me, serving others.

Julie: We always like to have one last fun day to wrap up the summer before getting back into a more rigid daily routine. This year, we went to the beach for the day and took a friend. My time-saving hacks: Do everything you can to prepare for the next day in advance. Pick out the next day’s outfits and find shoes the night before and put them in the same place every night. Have homework and signed papers in the backpack and by the door. Make as much of the lunch as you can the night before. If you can get into the habit of being prepared, it makes for a much smoother morning and allows time for those things that happen which you can’t control. You can only get away with serving Chips Ahoy for breakfast so many times in one month.

WP: You probably know better than most just how busy life can be. How do you make sure it doesn’t get in the way of your passion? What do you do to keep your energy up? Julie: Life gets crazy busy all the time, and I’m no juggling expert. Thankfully, I have a sweet husband who doesn’t mind being married to a crazy lady and who reminds me regularly to take life one day at a time. I do my best to remember to keep my priorities in order: God first, family second, career third. I draw energy from spending time with God, spending time with my family and friends, and trying to do something creative when I have the opportunity.

WP: What advice would you give moms just beginning their parenting journey? Julie: The absolute best advice I can give new moms is that whatever you do, do not compare yourself to other mothers and do not compare your children to the children of others. God gives each mother the grace and the gifts she needs to parent her children. Trust Him and let Him be your guide.

WP: What would you say is your parenting style?

Julie Gonzalez is the development director of the Wiregrass Area Food Bank. She is married to Juan, and they have two daughters, Jasmine (9) and Joy Kelley (26), and a son-in-law, Ethan (27).

Julie: My husband and I try to teach our girls to make good choices that honor God in everything they do. Wiregrass Parents I August 2018

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Succeed at a high school where

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Find out how the Alabama School of Math and Science can lead you on a path to success. ASMS is our state’s only fully public, residential high school for highly motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors seeking advanced studies in math, science, and the humanities. Applying to ASMS is FREE – and so are tuition, room, and board if you are admitted! Start your online application September 1, 2018 at www.asms.net.

Many people ask, “Do I have to be a ‘genius’ to be accepted to ASMS?” Answer: Absolutely NOT! ASMS is made up of students who are intelligent and work hard for academic success. The 2018 senior class earned $10 million in merit-based scholarships and scored a composite 29.7 on the ACT. Current Alabama 9th or 10th graders can apply. Questions? Email admissions@asms.net or call 251.441.3250.

Alabama School of Mathematics and Science 1255 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604 251.441.2100 - www.asms.net admissions@asms.net