Wiregrass Parents March 2019 by KeepSharing

Congratulations to

Brian aiyana Velazquez Escobar winners of the second annual “ Share Your Smile Alabama Department of Public photo Health Oral Health Office with Alabama”contest

For smiles like aiyana and Brian that last a lifetime: • C hildren ages 1-17 years old need to have preventive dental visits twice yearly • Optimal levels of Community Water Fluoridation should be present where you live

alabamapublichealth.gov/oralhealth

ORAL HEALTH OFFICE Promoting Smiles Across a Lifetime

March2019 24

Volume 1 Number 7

26 Columns

100

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LMSW

Parenting Teens

Help your teens avoid the illusion of adulthood and get them moving towards maturity.

Self-Determination at Summer Camp

Ways your child will grow by being off on his own at camp.

Kids Health Watch by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

23 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Parenting Today’s Teens Mark Gregston

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

How Not to Worry

If you are sending your child to overnight camp, discover how to keep your worry at bay.

2019 Summer Camps Day, residential, sports camps and more! Our listing starts you planning your kids’ summer!

Get This! Gerry Paige Smith

Departments On The Cover

Alexis Rose Wright is the daughter of Christopher and Ashton Wright. The almost 4 year old is excited about starting Pre-K, or what she calls “big school,” in the fall. Alexis loves to play outside, including decorating the front porch with chalk drawings, riding her bicycle, and swinging and sliding. She can spell and write her own name, count to 50, and is learning how to tell time. Her current favorite movie is Brave, but she also loves Beauty and the Beast, Frozen, Moana, and The Princess and the Frog.

Teacher of the Month School Bits 39

Movie Reviews 40

Family Calendar 48

Mom to Mom www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

FromThePublisher The Area’s Go-To Resource for Families

Remember when you were a kid and couldn’t wait for summer? It seemed like all the best things happened in those two-to-three months of the year when you didn’t have to worry about homework or tests. My family spent most summers on the water - swimming and tubing on the Chattahoochee River or camping on Lake Eufaula. Some of my favorite summer memories revolve around those muddy waters. We rode bicycles and tubed behind different parents’ boats and played hide-and-seek with cousins and schoolmates until it was too dark to see. We didn’t wear enough sunscreen and probably didn’t have a healthy-enough respect for the alligators we were definitely too close to. There was also Vacation Bible School, different camps, and eventually summer jobs. If you hadn’t guessed it by now, this issue is all about getting you ready for summer. As of March 1, there’s a little less than three months remaining in the school year. Do you know what your kids will be doing once that final bell rings? If summer camp is on the agenda, now is the time to start planning, and we’ve got you covered with our Summer Camp Guide. From art and theater to gymnastics and more traditional day and overnight camps, we’ve rounded up as many Wiregrass camps as we could find. If you’re still on the fence about whether summer camp is right for your child, check out this month’s feature articles, Kids Going to Camp? How Not to Worry and Self-Determination Thrives at Summer Camp. If you’re not ready to think about summer just yet, don’t fret. Spring is one of the busiest times of year in the Wiregrass. From the Azalea-Dogwood Trail to the Southeast Alabama Highland Games, Spring Farm Day, and the Rattlesnake Rodeo, there is a lot going on this month. I’ve always called this time of year “festival season,” and our Family Calendar is overflowing with fun events for the whole family. While I enjoy summer just as much as the next person, I’m not quite ready for the triple-digit heat and humidity that comes with it. For now, I’ll be enjoying the pleasant 75-degree weather by getting outside as much as possible, which shouldn’t be hard. Alexis never misses a chance to draw chalk on the front porch (just check out this month’s cover) and loves to ride her bike and swing. When summer does arrive, you can bet we’ll be spending as much time in or on the water as we can, with plenty of breaks so I can reapply sunscreen. In the meantime, I hope this month’s issue of Wiregrass Parents helps you spring into the warmer season, and don’t forget to spring forward on March 10th!

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 Heidi Smith Leudtke, Ph.D. Sonia Martin, LMSW Amanda J. Murray, MD Dave Ramsey 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 March 2019

Wiregrass Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: PO Box 1882, Dothan AL 36302. The phone number for voice is (334) 714-7831. Wiregrass Parents is copyrighted 2018 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Wiregrass Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LMSW

The Crazy Cycle Allow me to introduce you to the Crazy Cycle, an unwelcome yet common occurrence playing out in homes across America. Reminiscent of the work of Dr. Emmerson Eggerichs and his book, “Love & Respect,” The Crazy Cycle which wasyouoriginally marriage, Allow me to introduce to the Crazy Cycle,geared an un-welcometoward yet common occurrence playing out in homes across America. Reminiscent of the work of Dr. Emmerson Eggerichs and his book, we& Respect” can see how ageared similar cycle continues its “Love which was originally toward marriage, we can see how a similar cycle continues its destructive path that cuts right through the middle of parent/child relationships. destructive path that cuts right through the Essentially, the Crazy Cycle looks like this: A child feels unloved or “disconnected” from his parent. Because ofof that parent/child he is going to operate out of a spirit of disrespect. When your child middle relationships. disrespects you, you respond unlovingly – i.e. “Don’t talk to me like that, go to your room!”, or “You want toEssentially, act that way – fine. Yourthe Xbox is mine until further notice.”looks In whateverlike manner, Crazy Cycle inserting whatever details, we are meeting our child’s disrespect with an unloving or more accurately a “disconnected” response. unloved When we respond or unlovingly, our child will often meet this:–A child feels “disconnected” us there and further respond disrespectfully which only works to cement that feeling of being unloved. So round and round the crazy cycle goes, where it stops – nofrom one knows. his parUnloved ent. Because of that he Disrespectfully Disrespect is going to operate out Unlovingly of a spirit of The catalyst for change comes at the moment your child operates in a manner of disrespect. disrespect. Because let’s face it, our children are going to have moments when they get it wrong, when they disrespect us, when they go a bit sideways - this is the process of childhood. They are learning When child disrespects you, and growing andyour grasping at getting a handle on self-control and don’t comeyou fully equipped with an appropriate response to stressors. When we can meet their disrespect with more of a respond unlovingly i.e. “Don’t talk me partnership or “connected” response, “Wow. – I can see your struggling right now.to We can figure this out together” we can get them to pop right on out of the crazy cycle and into an engagement likethatthat, go to your orand“You toAnd pattern is foundationally based on a childroom!” who feels loved connected want to their parent. that my friends, is the ball game. act that way – fine. Your Xbox is mine until Loved further notice.” In whatever manner, inserting whatever are meeting our Respectfully details, weRespect child’s disrespect with an unloving, or more Lovingly accurately, a “disconnected” response. When we respond unlovingly, our child will often meet us there and further respond disrespectfully, which only works to cement that feeling of being unloved. So round and

round the crazy cycle goes, where it stops – no one knows. respond respectfully, which only serves to The catalyst for change comes at the solidify that feeling of being loved. Suddenly moment your child operates in a manner of The Crazy Cycle - we have an entirely different cycle on our disrespect. Because let’s face it, our chilAllow me to introduce you to the Crazy Cycle, an un-welcome yet common occurrence playing hands. out in homes across America. Reminiscent of the work of Dr. Emmerson Eggerichs and his book, dren are going to have moments when they “Love & Respect” which was originally geared toward marriage, we can see howThe a similar cycle function of the crazy cycle plays get it wrong, when they disrespect us, when continues its destructive path that cuts right through the middle of parent/child relationships. itself out not only in parent/child interactions, the Crazy Cycle looks like A child feels unloved or “disconnected” from his they go aEssentially, bit sideways - this isthis: the process parent. Because of that he is going to operate out of a spirit of disrespect.but Whenin yourthe child school environment, with their of childhood. They are learning growing disrespects you, you respond unlovingly – and i.e. “Don’t talk to me like that, go to your room!”, or and in social situations. If we can be“You want to act that way – fine. Your Xbox is mine until further notice.”peers In whatever manner, and grasping at getting a handle on selfinserting whatever details, we are meeting our child’s disrespect with an unloving or more come intentional in recognizing the cycle we accurately – a “disconnected” When we respondwith unlovingly, our child will often meet control. They don’t come response. fully equipped us there and further respond disrespectfully which only works to cementare that feeling of being up in, we can begin to identify a caught an appropriate tocrazy stressors. When unloved. Soresponse round and round the cycle goes, where it stops – no one knows. way out while always being mindful that we, we can meet their disrespect with more of Unloved as the parents, are the catalysts for change. a partnership or “connected” response, Our children do not have capacity for this “Wow. I canDisrespectfully see your struggling right Disrespect now. on their own – we have to be that external We can figure this out together” we can get regulator. We set the tone. So in those them to pop right on out of the crazy cycle hard moments, take a breath. Take a beat. Unlovingly and into an engagement pattern that is And see if you can figure out what cycle The catalyst for change comes at the moment your child operates in a manner of disrespect. foundationally based on a child who feels Because let’s face it, our children are going to have moments when they get it wrong, when they you are living in. us, when they go a bit sideways - this is the process of childhood. They are learning loved anddisrespect connected to their parent. And and growing and grasping at getting a handle on self-control and don’t come fully equipped with an appropriate to stressors. When we can meet their disrespect with more of a that my friends, isresponse the ball game. partnership or “connected” response, “Wow. I can see your struggling right now. We can figure *Therapeutic parenting is parenting in a highly structured, highly When orright connected this a outchild together” feels we can getloved them to pop on out of the crazy cycle and into an engagement nurturing way. This form of intensive parenting is often a key to progress in dealing pattern that is foundationally based on a child who feels loved and connected to their parent. And with children who have trauma and attachment to you, they operate manner of respect. challenges, but has also proven beneficial with any child. that my friends, is thein balla game. When they Loved Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s respect you, and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the you respond Respectfully Respect brain in behavior, and how to adopt therapeutic parenting to that lovtechniques to help mitigate negative behaviors. She travels the state speaking at various conferences on behavior and ingly, when Lovingly parenting and is a therapist for Kids To Love Foundation. you respond Sonia is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of whom were internationally adopted, and is also a foster parent. lovingly your child will begin to further

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Screen on the Green Presents Ferris Bueller’s Day Off

March 21 * 7:30-9:30 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art in Dothan Screen on the Green, WMA’s free public film series, kicks off its 2019 season with a John Hughes classic from 1986, Ferris Bueller’s Day Off. Come relive the misadventures of Ferris (Matthew Broderick) and two of his friends as they skip school and spend the day exploring Chicago, all while the school’s principal (unsuccessfully) tries to undermine their fun. Moviegoers can purchase tasty fare served by local food trucks, and enjoy free popcorn provided by WMA! Cozy up with a date, make it a family night, or spend some well-deserved alone time under the stars. And don’t forget to BYOB&C - bring your own blanket and chairs! WMA’s galleries will be open beginning at 6 p.m. so visitors can take in current exhibitions before the movie starts. For more info, call (334) 794-3871 or visit www. wiregrassmuseum.org. Screen on the Green occurs on third Thursdays in March, June, September and December as part of WMA’s Third Thursday schedule.

2019 Picture Book Contest

Dothan Houston County Library System Create an original picture book that includes a title, cover art, story and illustrations. The story may be fact or fiction, prose or poetry. Text may be written legibly or typed. Original art can include drawings, collages and photos taken by the child. Entries can be no more than 32 pages, with a one-inch margin, and must be on 8.5x11 paper. Open to any K-5th grade student. Only one entry per person. One winner will be selected from each age category. Winners will receive a copy of their bound book and copies will circulate in the library’s picture book collection. Entries can be dropped off at the children’s desk of any DHCLS library by March 29. Winners will be announced and notified on April 17. Entries can be picked up from the main library children’s desk between April 19-30. For more info, call (334) 793-9767 or visit www.dhcls.org.

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Free Rabbit Football Camp

59th Annual Opp Rattlesnake Rodeo

March 23 * 9 a.m.-12 p.m. P.A.S.S. Academy, 201 E. Wilson St., Dothan Free Football Camp is ready to get back into things. This is our 4th year running strong! Coach Rabbit will teach boys of all ages football drills, skills and fundamentals. Drinks and small meal will be provided at the end. Volunteers (subject to background check) are always needed. We need help grilling, serving, hands-on with Coach, and at the sign-in table. We also need help with donations of hot dogs, bread, drinks and snacks. Will accept monetary donations also. Any donations are appreciated! For more info, call Jimmie Reese at (334) 200-3198 or Roxy at (334) 547-5120.

March 23-24 Channel-Lee Stadium in Opp Cost: $10 per day (advance); $15 per day (Day of); 6 & under free Eastern Diamondback rattlesnakes have been rattling since the dawn of time, but they have been a main attraction in Opp for the past 56 years. Mr. J.P. Jones was the mastermind behind this small-town community event. He, along with the Opp Jaycees, first organized this event as a fun-filled, family-friendly weekend with snake shows, arts and crafts, and good food. After several years, the rodeo has grown to include other activities such as beauty pageants, the Rattlin’ 100 car race held at the South Alabama Speedway, snake races, buck-dancing contests, children’s activities, karoke contests, musical entertainment throughout the day and the most popular Rattlin’ Country Concert featuring Nashville country music artists and bands, as well as local groups. The Rattlin’ country concert is held on a Saturday evening. With all the activities scheduled throughout each day, we are certain The Rattlesnake Rodeo has something for everyone. For more info, including vendor applications, 5K run information and places to stay, call (334) 493-2122 or visit www.opprattlesnakerodeo.com.

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March 22-23 A two-day Southern garden party in Panama City Beach’s Aaron Bessant Park featuring superb craft beer, spirits and wine from around the world, plus live music and culinary creations by Northwest Florida’s leading chefs. Visit www.visitpanamacitybeach.com/unwined/. 5

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JDRF One Walk

March 2 * Check In @ 9 a.m.; Walk Starts @ 10 a.m. Westgate Park, 501 Recreation Rd., Dothan JDRF Community One Walk is led by passionate volunteers with one goal: to create a world without type 1 diabetes (T1D). Type 1 diabetes is an autoimmune disease that strikes children and adults suddenly. It has nothing to do with diet or lifestyle—and it’s serious and stressful to manage. Please register to walk with your community at walk.jdrf.org/dothan.

32nd Annual International Food Festival March 9 * 6-8 p.m. National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, Dothan Cost: Adult $30; Children $10; 4 & Under Free; VIP Table of 8 $300; Reserved Table of 6 $200 Experience flavors and entertainment from around the world! Greece, Italy, Pakistan, Hawaii, Jamaica and Japan are only a few of the countries you will visit with dishes that you can only experience during the International Food Festival. Most of our cooks are authentic from their countries and the foods are home cooked. A few restaurants participate, such as TAJ offering tasty Indian foods, Willie’s Place offering the best Puerto Rican foods, and Ray’s offering Southern comfort foods. Live entertainment will include the Polka Band, Steel Drum Band and Bagpipe Player. Public seating is first come, first serve; reserved seating for 6 is available for family, friends or businesses; and VIP tables of 8 are available for family, friends or businesses. Bring the kids! Fun Zone includes activities for the children and a photo booth for all. It is a great time for family, friends, neighbors and companies to support local organizations that empower the young girls and women of our community. Enjoy dinner and get to know how Zonta supports our community. Contact Angie McKinney at angie.zonta@gmail.com for more info or visit www.zonta.org.

Southeast Alabama Highland Games

March 16 * 9 a.m. National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, Dothan Cost: $10 for ages 10 & Up; free for 10 & under We will feature all the traditional Highland Games events, including the caber toss, sheaf toss, hammer throw, and more. There will also be family clans. This year’s honored clan is House of Gordon, who won the Best Clan Tent award for 2018. The event also includes food and vendors, kids’ activities, and fun for the whole family! We encourage everyone to come out if only to see the games and watch the demonstrations going on. For more info, visit www.WiregrassHighlandGames.com.

Spring Farm Day

March 16 * 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Landmark Park in Dothan Cost: $8 adults; $6 seniors/active military; $4 kids (ages 3-12) Plowing with horses and mules. Old fashioned music. Sheep shearing. Spring Farm Day offers a glimpse back in time to life on the farm in the 1890s in spring. A variety of demonstrations will take place throughout the day. Watch quilting, chair caning, bee keeping and border collies. Smell the wood stove cooking and try your hand at plowing. Master Gardeners will work in the Kitchen Garden, and visitors should make sure to visit the Kids’ Area. Live music will take place throughout the day. This is an official event of Alabama’s Bicentennial. For more info, visit www.landmarkparkdothan.com. Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

Cost: $25 Adults; $23 Senior In roaring twenties Chicago, chorine Roxie Hart murders a faithless lover and convinces her hapless husband, Amos, to take the rap... until he finds out he’s been duped and turns on Roxie. Convicted and sent to death row, Roxie and another “Merry Murderess,” Velma Kelly, vie for the spotlight and the headlines, ultimately joining forces in search of the American Dream: fame, fortune and acquittal. This sharp-edged satire features a dazzling score that sparked immortal staging by Bob Fosse. Mild language and adult themes. Directed by Margo Wright. For tickets or more info, visit www.seact.com. 6

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Harbor Lights

March 9 * Noon-6 p.m. The Plant, 308 N. Saint Andrews St., Dothan Cost: $20-$30 BikeFest begins at 9 a.m. leaving and returning to The Plant. Gates open at noon for a day filled with fun for the whole family. Chili winners will be announced at 6 p.m. All proceeds benefit The REAL Project and AMBUCS. Our mission is to create a better quality of life for those living with physical disabilities in the Wiregrass area. Call (334) 699-7727 for more info.

Thursdays-Saturdays through March 16 * 6:30-9:15 p.m. Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St., Enterprise Come witness the extraordinary story of a couple who operated a lighthouse in an era when lighthouses were still used to mark dangerous coastline, hazardous shoals and reefs, and navigate mariners to safe entries into harbors. This drama will draw you in to their hardships, courage, stamina and romance. Business casual dress. Reserved seating only. Tickets must be purchased in advance at www.southernbroadway. com or by calling (334) 470-6568.

Youth Art Month Exhibition

March 1-31 Wiregrass Museum of Art in Dothan Each March, the Wiregrass Museum of Art hosts Youth Art Month, an event celebrated around the country. The month includes a juried exhibition of art by K-12 students from the Wiregrass region, as well as Out of the (Art) Box, an installation competition for high school groups. The public is invited to the opening reception on February 28 (5-7 p.m.), which will include the announcement of several merit awards, including the Congressional Art Competition, open to 11th- and 12th-graders living in the 2nd Congressional District of Alabama. For more info, call (334) 794-3871 or visit https://www.wiregrassmuseum.org/.

Daleville Family Fun Fest

March 12-16 * 5-11 p.m. nightly Culpepper Park, Highway 85, Daleville The second annual Family Fun Fest will be bigger than ever with amusement rides, games, food, vendors, petting zoo and live music. Admission this year is $6 per person, with armbands available, so be sure to plan to come out and enjoy the festivities! For more info, visit dalevilleal. com or call (334) 598-2345.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

How Much Sleep Children Need In our world of ever increasing busy schedules, it can sometimes be difficult for children to get adequate sleep. Sleep is essential to all of us for physical and mental wellness and is very important for children as they are learning, growing, and reaching developmental milestones. According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine and endorsed by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the recommended amount of hours of sleep for children varies depending on the child’s age. For infants between 4-6 months, 12-16 hours of sleep per day is recommended which includes time napping. This number decreases to 11-14 hours (including naps) for toddlers between ages 1-2. Preschoolers (3-5 years old) need 10-13 hours to achieve adequate sleep goals. Grade school children (ages 6-12) need 9-12 hours of sleep each night. In the teen years, 8-10 hours are acceptable. A key factor in helping children achieve their sleep goals is a regular bedtime schedule. Children should have a set time for afternoon

Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

play, homework, chores, and family dinner, followed by a bedtime routine which may include reading or storytime, brushing their teeth, and going to bed in a quiet, dark or dimly lit bedroom. Keeping a bedtime routine will help your child feel safe and comfortable going to sleep. Other challenges to adequate sleep include screen time and physical activity. Screen time should be limited for all children, with no screen time for at least 60 minutes before bedtime. Physical activity during the day is an important part of childhood development. Active playtime for toddlers and young children, and regular exercise on a daily basis is important for children as they grow toward their teenage years. Individual and team sports certainly are a fun and exciting way to achieve this physical activity, but make sure children are not scheduled for too many activities and that the times do not interfere with bedtime routines. Finally, some children have difficulty attaining sleep or maintaining adequate amounts of

sleep for many reasons, including environmental, psychological, or medical causes. Some children may even be referred to a specialist or a sleep study to further evaluate their inability to get the sleep they need. It is important to speak to your child’s pediatrician when concerns arise regarding your child’s sleep. After all, sleep is just as important to our well being as what happens in the hours spent awake. As we strive to help our children be as prepared as possible for each stage of life, let’s start 2019 making a way for our children to get enough sleep. And, we could probably use some more ourselves. Dr. Jennifer Stinson joined Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network in 2017, practicing primarily at Ozark Pediatric Clinic. She and her husband, Slade, live in Enterprise with their two sons: Solomon and Zachary. In her free time, Dr. Stinson enjoys baseball games, the beach, and spending time with her family.

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Dana Sellers Cloverdale Elementary School, Dothan

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Some teachers go beyond the call of duty when it comes to their students. Dana Peters is one such teacher. Just ask Andrea Wisor. Her daughter, Peyton, is one of Peters’ students and recently broke her leg, requiring surgery. “Mrs. Peters came to the hospital a couple times to see her and check on her, and brought her get well cards the class made her,” Wisor says. “She also made sure to stay in contact with me to see how Peyton was doing! It was a bad situation, but I couldn’t have asked for a better teacher or school. They were absolutely amazing!” Wisor nominated Mrs. Peters for Wiregrass Parents’ Teacher of the Month contest for March. Peters teachers third grade at Cloverdale Elementary School in Dothan. This is her third year in the classroom. She started her career teaching high school biology, but left to become the education director at Landmark Park. After ten years in that role, Peters says she felt like God was leading her back to the classroom, so she went back to school to earn her masters in elementary education. It wasn’t an easy journey. “At the time I was working full time and had a young son, so there were numerous roadblocks and difficulties that came up as I was working toward my degree. At times I thought there was no way I could finish. But everytime those things came up, God cleared the way.” Peters’s determination to reach her goal is something she’s trying to pass on to her students.

After Christmas break, she had her students write down a goal for this nine weeks and pick a prize for when they achieve their goals. Her students seem to appreciate the extra effort. “Last Valentine’s Day I got the sweetest letter from one of my students that thanked me for being tough with him and making him work hard,” Peters says. “I mentioned the letter to his parents and they had no idea he had written it. He had done it all by himself.” It’s little affirmations like those that help keep Peters motivated. She says third grade can be a difficult transition period for some students, but she says watching her students mature and become more independent and self-aware is rewarding, especially in a high-poverty school like Cloverdale. “I have had students who have experienced so much heartache in their lives. I have had homeless students, students who lived in homes without electricity, and students without a parent present, and still many of them come in with a smile on their face and ready to work hard every day. They have taught me to be thankful for what I have.”

Dana Sellers is a third grade teacher at Cloverdale Elementary School in Dothan. She received her Bachelor’s degree in Biology Education and Masters degree in Elementary Education from Troy University. She and her husband, Josh, have a 10-year-old son, Noah.

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Autauga County Schools

Morris Slingluff Appreciates Those Who Serve

Morris Slingluff Elementary School’s character word for February was service. Miss Lindsay’s second-grade class has been talking about service and people who provide service to us. The students wrote thank you letters and delivered them. This one was EXTRA special since it was National Counselor Week!

Selma Street Named READBowl Champs

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The Selma Elementary Wildcats have been named the 2019 READBowl State Champions! Thank you, Monica Loftin, for facilitating this event within our school.

Dothan Education Foundation Holds Successful Annual Showcase

One of the goals of the Dothan Education Foundation is to engage the community with Dothan City Schools. The two organizations partnered up for the 10th Annual Education Showcase on February 4 at the Dothan Civic Center. This community-packed event allowed the Wiregrass the opportunity to see the great things that are happening within each school in the Dothan City School System, as well as hear DCS Superintendent Dr. Phyllis Edwards’s first State of Education address. This year’s event included special student performances from DCS HeadStart, Dothan High School, Girard Middle School, Honeysuckle Middle School and DCS English Language Department, as well as marching bands from DHS and NHS to close out the night.

Carver Magnet Participates in District Science Fair

Carver Magnet School had several hardworking students who moved on to the district science fair, which was held at Wiregrass Commons Mall. Congratulations to sixth-grader Grace Rollins (shown), seventh-graders Moriah Hogans and Serika Patel, and eighth-graders Antonia Grignano and Daegan Benjamin, who will all be advancing to the Regional Science Fair at Auburn University on March 6. Special thanks to science teachers Mrs. Bradley and Mrs. Freeman, who worked diligently to make sure our students had all they needed to present at their best! Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

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Honeysuckle Middle Students Practice Etiquette

Grandview Student Wins Black History Competition

Ai’King Hall, fourth-grade student in Miss Rogers’ class, is Grandview Elementary’s winner for the Dothan City Schools districtwide black history recognition program, Hidden Treasures: Deeply Rooted in Strength Awards. This year’s theme was unsung African American women in STEM. Hall researched Roger Arliner Young, who was the first African American woman to receive a doctorate degree in zoology. He will compete and represent Grandview at the district level.

Table manners and etiquette were on the menu for students from Ms. Hearns, Ms. Roberts and Ms. Klatt’s classrooms at Honeysuckle Middle School. They were able to order their own drinks and food, received their bills, paid money and left a tip. Learnng life skills at Friday’s!

Dothan City Schools Names Teacher of the Year Congratulations to Amanda Smith for being chosen as Dothan City Schools’ 2018-2019 Teacher of the Year.

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Northside Football Players Honored

Autauga County Schools

Northside Methodist Academy’s Bauer Sharp and TJ Lewis were named Dothan Combine Quarterback and Defensive Line MVPs.

Northside Bible Quiz Team Named State Champs

The Northside Methodist Academy Senior High Bible Quiz Team has been named 2019 State Champions! Blake Calhoun (shown at center with trophy) quizzed out (answered six questions correctly) in all five rounds played. Junior High and Senior High teams are shown with Mrs. Roten.

Houston Academy Places In State Scholars Bowl

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

Houston Academy Middle School placed 4th in the State Scholars Bowl competition! The following students participated: Kiki He, Rachael Davis, Levin Sconyers, Misbah Meghani and Libby Freeman.

Northside Participates in Youth Legislature

Northside Methodist Academy had a wonderful day at YMCA’s Junior Youth Legislature in Montgomery. A delegation of nine students in 6th-8th grades represented Northside well writing and debating bills while learning all about the legislative process. Evan Povlacs, Coleman Fulbright and Anna Pauley were recognized as Outstanding Delegates from the Senate Chamber. Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

Northview Students Receive Recognition

These students in Vincent Owens’s class at Northview have either achieved perfect attendance, A/B Honor Roll, or both during the 2nd Nine Weeks Honors ceremony. 12

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Pinedale 4th-Graders Mix Robotics with Math and Science

Mrs. Allen’s 4th-grade classes at Pinedale Elementary mixed robotics with math and science. The students used what they learned about parallel lines, perpendicular lines, intersecting lines, and potential and kinetic energy to create a maze for their robot to go through. The students had a chance to drive and also coded their robot to go through the maze by itself.

Hillcrest First-Graders Publish Book

Hillcrest Student Wins County Spelling Bee

Jana Foxworth’s first-grade class had a “book tasting” to celebrate the publishing of their classroom book, Dream Big. It was dedicated to the students of Bay County, Florida.

Hillcrest Elementary student Graham Andress won the Coffee County Spelling Bee. He will represent Coffee County in the state spelling bee in March.

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Autauga County Schools

Northside Archery Team Scores Second Place

Northside Methodist Academy’s Archery Club received 2nd place in the NASP Regional Tournament recently. Trevor Dyson won first place in the High School Boys’ Division, Jesse Dyson won second place in the Middle School Boys’ Division and Barron Jacobson won third place in the 3D Middle School Competition.

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Support Rehobeth Football Fundraiser

Come SAVE money and SUPPORT the Rehobeth Football Program at our first mattress sale fundraising event. It will be held Saturday, March 2, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the cafeteria at Rehobeth High School. ONE DAY ONLY! OPEN TO THE PUBLIC! Prices are up to 50% off retail. We carry quality name brands like Sealy, Tempur-Pedic, Stearns & Foster, Wellsville, and more. Please help us spread the word by sharing this post with friends and family! See a football player or parent for discounted coupons for veterans, senior citizens, first responders and educators. Bed sheets, pillows and bedding accessories will also be available for sale at discounted prices. Thank you for SPREADING THE WORD!

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

Ridgecrest Christian Students Volunteer

Habitat for Humanity thanks the volunteers from the F.L.O.W. Group at Ridgecrest Christian School for helping out at the ReStore. Come again, please!

Northside Artists Display Creativity

Northside Scholars Bowl Team Places Second

The Scholars Bowl team from Northside Methodist Academy placed 2nd at a meet hosted by Houston Academy. Shown are Mary Elizabeth Parker, Emily Grace Otts, Phillip Butterfield, Blake Calhoun, Sam Stinson and Mr. Stinson. Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

Mr. Nelson’s art class at Northside Methodist Academy worked on their two-point perspective project in the Fine Arts Building using painter’s tape. Exodus 35:35 says, “He has filled them with skill to do all kinds of work as engravers, designers, embroiderers...all of them skilled workers and designers.” www.wiregrassparents.com

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Ozark Boys & Girls Club Members Improve Grades

78% of Ozark Boys and Girls Club members improved at least one of their grades on their last report card! Bring Up Grades (BUGS) is a program in partnership with Kiwanis of Ozark designed to provide recognition to students who raise their grades and maintain or continue to raise them from one grading period to the next.

Windham Kindergarteners Give Back

Ms. Kendra McGowan and Mrs. Adriene White’s kindergarten classes enjoyed doing community service at Enterprise Health and Rehabilitation Center. They song songs, gave valentine cards, and ended their field trip with a visit to the park.

Abbeville Christian Names Teachers of the Year

At right, congratulations to Abbbeville Christian Academy Teachers of the Year: Elementary - Bridgett McCreight and High School - Stephen Windham.

Headland Middle Conducts Science Experiments

At left, students in Carla Gamble’s sixth-grade science class participated in science experiments. Each activity was centered around a specific objective. Some students collected radiant energy data by doing trials using different wattage light bulbs. They recorded the distance the light was placed from the radiometer, how long the lamp was turned on, and how long the radiometer continued to spin after the lamp was turned off. Other students learned about recrystallization by making mineral crystals by dissolving Epsom salt in hot water and pouring onto a paper plate.

Lisenby Holds Valentine Banquet

Lisenby Primary School held a Good Manners Valentine Banquet at the school. The students practiced good manners, and the lunchroom was turned into a fancy restaurant! The children dressed up in their Sunday best and were escorted to lunch. Any male figure in the child’s life can attend, and the males in each family serve as waiters. 15

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Support Enterprise High Golf Team at Tournament The Enterprise High School (EHS) boys’ and girls’ golf teams invite you to participate in a golf tournament March 1 to benefit the EHS golf program. All proceeds from this tournament will be donated to the EHS golf program. This worthwhile event will feature an 18-hole, four-person scramble at the Enterprise Country Club. Your day will include 18 holes at the Enterprise Country Club’s beautiful golf course, unlimited non-alcoholic beverages, and the opportunity to compete in contests. Door prizes will be available after the tournament. Four-Person Scramble offers unlimited range balls prior to shotgun start (11:45 a.m.); tournament lunch meal; and unlimited non-alcoholic beverages. Contests and prizes include: Putting Contest; Closest to the Pin Contests on all par 3’s; Longest Drive Contest (men and women); and door prizes. Cost: $100/person. Please message us on our EHS Golf page, call (334) 464-1634 or see any team member to register or be a sponsor.

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Pinedale Elementary School Legendary Leaders

These Pindeale Elementary students were chosen to be Legendary Leaders in their classrooms for the month of January and attended a Legendary Leaders’ Lunch. Above left photo are 1st grade leaders: Gavin Cramer, Dahlia Myers, Halen Garcia, Ella White, Shelby Newell and Charlee Crist. Above right photo are 2nd grade leaders: Meleigha James, Connor Harcus, Bryson Simms and Jasper Norwood.

3rd grade leaders above: Caroline Motley, Isaac Gordon, Maria Tomas and Ansley Reeves

4th grade leaders above: Jeffrey Hanss, Eddie Rivera, Bethany Ray and Brooke Qualls

Coffee County Names Teachers of the Year

Coffee County’s Elementary Teacher of the Year is Kristy Jones, above, 3rd grade teacher at Zion Chapel School. Kinston School’s Connie Hawthorne, below, has been selected Coffee County Schools Secondary Teacher of the Year. Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

5th grade leaders Claire Jones and Megan Sewell

6th grade leaders: Hailey Brouillard, Jenna Bruce, Jackson Ludlam and Brooke Elrod.

Please email news and photos to: schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com! 16

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Enterprise Earns Prestigious Place Starting New Club Chapter

Enterprise High School students, student officers and Mrs. Peacock had a great induction ceremony February 12. They are proud to be the first high school in Alabama to start a chapter of National Society of High School Scholars!

Please email news and photos to: schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com! Elba ‘Eclectics’ Place in Capital City Classic

The Elba High School Eclectics finished 3rd in the Capital City Classic. Mr. Tucker received the Star Award, which is given in recognition of show choirs who have overcome obstacles and the directors that are ambassadors for music education! The story of the Eclectics is a testament to the students, teachers, administrators, schools and parents who have worked together to make this group possible over the years!

Enterprise Helps Present Lion King Jr.

The Dauphin Junior High School Drama Club—with a little help from the Enterprise High School Theatre Department—will present The Lion King, Jr. This musical is based on the Disney classic and includes all the characters and favorite songs from the original Broadway production. The show is presented by special arrangement from MTI. All tickets are $10 and all patrons must have a ticket. There will be four public shows (three 7 p.m. shows March 7-9 and a matinee on Saturday at 1 p.m.) at Enterprise High School, 1801 Boll Weevil Cir, Enterprise.

2019 graduating high school seniors can now apply for a $1,000 scholarship! Deadline to apply is March 29, 2019 ®

Army Aviation Center Federal Credit Union

To apply, visit aacfcu.com/scholarship. 17

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Early County System Spelling Bee Winners

First- and second-place winners from Early County Elementary 4th and 5th grades, as well as Early County Middle School 6th, 7th and 8th grades competed on February 1 in the school system/ district spelling bee. ECSSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first-place winner will compete in the District/Regional Spelling Bee in Bainbridge, Ga.

Slocomb Elementary Fourth-Graders Visit Montgomery Historical Sites

Early County 4-H Students Represent County in Atlanta

Slocomb Elementary Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fourth-grade students visited the State Capitol building and the Department of Archives. They were able to experience a firsthand account of how our government works and how our great state was established. This year, Alabama will celebrate its 200th anniversary of statehood.

Early County 4-Hers Addie and Payne Murphree represented their county at the Capitol, speaking before 4-Hers from around the state, state 4-H leaders, legislators and the newly elected George Lt. Governor, Geoff Duncan.

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Please email news and photos to schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com! Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

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Headland Police Teaches Good Peer Selection

Lt. Cobb from the Headland Police Department teaches the G.R.E.A.T. Program (Gang Resistance Education and Training) to 6th- and 8th-grade students at Headland Middle School. It is a 13-week course that empowers students to make wise choices about their peer groups.

Slocomb Students Earn Awards at District Science Fair

Slocomb Elementary students received awards at the District Science Fair held at the Wiregrass Commons Mall in January. Fourth-grade students Ella Grace Price, Aliesa Santora, Gracie Stone and Savannah Goodwin represented Slocomb under the leadership of Katie Woodham. Price and Santora won first place in group projects, and they also won Best in Show!

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Carroll High Band Students Chosen for SEUS Honor Band

These Carroll High band students were selected for the Southeastern United States Honor Band that recently performed at Troy University. From left are: Bryce Herring, Nate Nelson, Katelyn Simechak, Jai Stabler, Brayden Portwood and David Miller.

Service Dog Gets Her Own Space at DA Smith

D.A. Smith Middle School resource teacher Kimberly Henderson is the handler for the school system’s service dog, Cassie. With the help of the community, Henderson created a space in her room called “Cassie’s Corner,” where students can come to calm anxieties while they read, work, or chat with other students - and snuggle with Cassie!

Lisenby Honors Bus Drivers

Lisenby Elementary honored its bus drivers for Bus Driver Appreciation Day. Each class made special cards for them to say thanks for all they do for us here at Lisenby.

Carroll High Welcomes New Principal

Carroll High School welcomes Andrea Maness as its new principal. Congratulations! ”Lets Soar High” Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

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Houston Academy Math Teams Compete in Troy

Both Houston Academyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Upper School and Middle School math teams performed well in recent Alabama Independent School Association math competitions; Upper School Math Team won 1st place, with Chaitanya Chennareddy winning first place overall individual. The Middle School Math Team won 2nd place, with Lilli Jeffers winning first place overall individual. High School team members include: Chaitanya Chennareddy, Ian Kim, Christopher Tamburin, Anna Grace Dumas and Jackson Norsworthy. Middle School team members include: Lilli Jeffers, Mallory Worsham, Sarah Eldridge, Bella Capaldo and Abby Caldwell.

Northside Methodist Names Valedictorian

Blake Calhoun was recently named class valedictorian of Northside Methodist Academy. He is also president of the Student Government Association and Key Club. Away from campus, Calhoun achieved the status of Eagle Scout in November, the highest ranking through Boy Scouts of America. He is also a past graduate of Youth Leadership Dothan, a program which brings together some of the top junior students in the city and Houston County for leadership training.

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

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Junior 4-Hers Place at District Competition

Four Early County students placed at the Southwest District 4-H project achievement. First place for junior 4-Hers Peggy Sue Crozier( Crafts), 2nd place for Breanna Brooks (Workforce Career Prep) and Payne Murphree (Beef), and 3rd place for Sevora Conley (History).

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Early County Students Treat First Responders

Early County Seniors Sign Softball Scholarships

Students from Candice Pilcher’s homeroom delivered snacks to first responders to show gratitude for their service to our community!

Early County High School seniors Sabryna LeRoy and Destiny Miskimen both signed with Andrew College to play softball next year.

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Early County Freshmen Learn About Civil Rights

As part of the ninth grade “Need for Empathy and Respect” unit of study, Kelsey Hawkins’ and Natasha Wimberly’s classes visited the Alabama Shakespeare Festival for a performance of Four Little Girls before touring the Civil Rights Memorial Museum in Montgomery Jan. 22. Students have been learning about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., the Birmingham Church Bombing, and the Civil Rights Movement.

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all the prompts will work for all kids, the question “How does your body feel when you focus?” is a solid way for kids to reflect and recapture a focused state. Say, “Alexa, ask Focus Game to start.” Kids Quiz! Four difficulty levels and a wide variety of subjects make this a fun trivia game for kids. Kids Quiz! offers multiple-choice answers, so kids have a better chance of choosing correctly, even if they don’t know much about certain subjects. Say, “Alexa, play Kids Quiz!” Kiwi Monsters! Through a fun story laced with choices, kids get to determine how their monsters evolve. As they choose certain colors, habitats, and food, their monsters’ evolution will shift. Kids have to know about the concept of mating to understand some of the choices. Say, “Alexa, open Kiwi Monsters!” The Magic Door. Like an audio-based choose-your-own-adventure book, this skill lets kids decide what happens next. Some of the stories are mildly creepy, so they may not be a great fit for little kids. Also, Alexa’s inflection doesn’t always match the tone of the story. Still, the interactive element is super fun. (Other good ones to try include Earplay and Storyflow, and if your kid just wants to listen, Amazon Storytime is a good choice.) Say, “Alexa, open The Magic Door.”

14 Great Alexa Skills for Kids and Teens “Alexa, entertain my kid with high-quality content.” If you have an Echo device, you know this is a tall order. Not only is Alexa a finicky listener, but you need to launch specific “skills” to get the device to do what you want. To find the best skills, go to the Amazon Alexa app or the Alexa section of the Amazon website. Start in the Kids section and look for skills with lots of reviews and a high star rating. Also check out the Games, Trivia, & Accessories category or the Education & Reference section. If you or your kid is really ambitious, you can even create your own skill. Check out the educational and entertaining skills we’ve hand-picked for your little kid, big kid, tween, or teen or for the whole family.

Little kids

Animal Workout. To get little kids moving, this skill tells them to pretend to be a certain animal and do movements to match while music plays. It’s especially great for those rainy or snowy days when kids need to burn off some energy inside. Try it alongside your kid for even more fun. Say, “Alexa, open Animal Workout.” Chompers. Ever have trouble getting your kids to brush their teeth (or do it for more than 10 seconds)? This skill will entertain your kids for two minutes by doing things like singing a kid-authored story or telling jokes. Just make sure your kid isn’t so distracted that they stop brushing altogether. Say, “Alexa, start Chompers.” Mommy-gram. When you have to be away from home and your kid is too little to text or call on their own, they can use this skill to touch base. After they say their message to Alexa, it will send it to you via text message, and then you can respond. (It works for all parents, of course.) Say, “Alexa, launch Mommy-gram.” Sesame Street. No surprises here: Elmo leads kids through an activity about the letter of the day and plays hide-and-seek so kids “find” him through sound cues and multiple-choice options. Say, “Alexa, open Sesame Street.”

Tweens & Teens

Song Quiz. Some adults will remember the game show Name That Tune, and this skill has that feel. You can select from several decades of music and then decide whether you’re playing with a friend or a random online player (there’s no actual contact with strangers). Then you listen and name the song and artist if you’re able. Say, “Alexa, open Song Quiz.” Travel Quest. Kids get a virtual passport, answer questions, and learn facts as they travel via Alexa to different countries. So far kids can only go to Canada or Japan with the promise of more countries available soon. Because of its narrative format, this is a fun way for kids to learn about different places and cultures. Say, “Alexa, start Travel Quest.” Daily Routine. If your teen needs reminders about school, chores, activities, or something else they need to do for the day, this skill might help. Teens can set a list of tasks that recur each day. As they work through them, they can have the satisfaction of virtually crossing them off the list. Say, “Alexa, open Daily Routine.” Do Good. Name a pressing social issue and Do Good will let you know about the organizations that are working to help. For instance, if your kid is interested in caring for animals, say, “I want to help animals,” and this skill will provide the best places to invest your time, energy, and resources. Say, “Alexa, open Do Good.” Escape the Room. Using simple directions, teens can “look” around a virtual room, gather clues, and solve the puzzles. While the lack of actual visual cues might be tricky for some teens, this could be a fun game for older kids to play together. Say, “Alexa, open Escape the Room.”

Big kids

1-2-3 Math. With word problems addressing a variety of math skills, this activity requires careful listening. Though the math on the Easy level is fairly simple, the Medium and Hard levels are likely challenging enough for upper elementary school students. Say, “Alexa, open 1-2-3 Math.” Focus Game. This simple activity asks kids to sit down, relax, and just listen to sounds such as gongs until the sound fades. You can use the Focus Game as a standalone activity or to calm kids before they settle down for homework. Though not 23

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

A False Sense of Maturity It’s probably happened to a lot of dads. Your kid spends his mornings watching you drag yourself to the bathroom mirror, pile some shaving cream in your hand, break out your razor, and start shaving your face. Soon, your son (or maybe even daughter) decides they need to shave too. So you squirt a little cream in their hands, supply them a with tongue depressor, and let them “shave.” As you both lean into the vanity mirror, it’s hard not to laugh, watching your five-year-old seriously attack the non-existent stubble on his face. Fast-forward a few years. Okay, maybe your teen actually needs to trim a few straggly hairs from his chin now. But, like the child who thought he was ready to shave way before he reached puberty, most teens still consider themselves more mature than they really are. Their spirit of independence makes them believe they are ready to tackle the world, when they can barely tackle their homework! As parents we know that maturity is the byproduct of responsibility and experience. We only gain maturity because we have to in order to survive! And so unless our teens are given responsibility, they will get stuck in a state of perpetual immaturity. Let me offer some “do’s” and “don’ts” to help you eliminate your teen’s illusion of adulthood and get them moving towards maturity.

Don’t Shame Them Giving your teen more responsibility and experience can be a very scary thing! When your child is learning to ride a bike, you eventually have to take the training wheels off. You take off those extra wheels while your child is still young, fully realizing he or she will wobble and weeble, and probably crash a few times. When the inevitable happens, and the bike flips, you don’t run up, point, and shame your child by saying, “What did you do? How could you have crashed? What were thinking?” Rather, you pick them up, brush them off, dry a few tears, and put them right back on the bike. Life is like that bicycle. Your teenager will crash. But we don’t run up and pile on the guilt Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

and blame. Gaining experience and becoming responsible takes time. So when your teen falls over, pick her up, and keep encouraging her to pedal. That’s how you can help your teen mature.

Don’t Nag Them Of course, your constant reminders are coming from a place of love and a desire for what’s best for your kids. You’re trying to nurture them to be responsible adults. But parents— nagging simply doesn’t help a kid mature. It only teaches him how to tune you out and treat your instructions like white noise. Of course some parents have the opposite tendency. Instead of stepping up to the plate and teaching our kids how to take initiative, we become passive observers and watch our teens float through life without ever growing up. Thankfully, moms and dads can work together so the bumps in one personality fill in the dips in another. By working together and communicating with each other well, parents can encourage each other and ensure that they are striking a good balance between nagging and passivity. Moms and dads may tend towards one end of the spectrum or the other, but both nurturing and pushing are incredibly important to the development of a teen. Now, you might be a single parent, and this method for pushing and relaxing is a bit harder. You have to play both roles. So, try this. Three days out of the week, push your teen towards more responsibility and accountability. The other days of the week, focus on loving and encouraging instead. In this way, you’re striking a balance being training and relating to your teen.

Do Have a Plan Your daughter won’t go to bed a kid one day, and wake up an adult the next. Have a game plan in place to take those training wheels off and get her moving in the right direction. It might look something like this: 12 to 13 years old—Require your daughter to make her own lunch for school. Assign your son weekly household chores. Extend her curfew. Place him in charge of the family pet. 24

14 to 15 years old—Give your son a cell phone with pre-determined minutes and data thresholds. Hold him responsible to get up each morning and make it to school. Have her wash her own laundry. Allow him to decide the family dinner once a week. 16 to 17—Require her to pay for her own car insurance and gas. Make him responsible for finishing his homework and school projects without parental supervision. Make her find a summer job to supplement a decreasing allowance. Require him to volunteer time at a local charity on a regular basis. This is just a sample of the plan that you might use to develop maturity in your child. Tailor it to fit your family and teen.

Do Help Teens Think for Themselves Ask good questions that stoke a teen’s thought process. For example, take the recent trend of young female musicians pushing the envelope. Ask your teen daughter about her thoughts on the issue. Are these young artists simply being creative? What message are they projecting? Do their actions help or hurt them? When you sit down to watch a television show with your son, engage his mind afterwards. It could be something as simple as, “what do you like about this program? What don’t you like?” Then sit back and listen, without judgment, correction, or condemnation. As your teens answer, the synapses in their brain start to fire, and connections begin to be made. It might take a while for them to see the logic (or illogic) in their thoughts, but you are starting them on a path that will help them see the world in a critical and discerning way. So stop supplying your teen with the ideas and thoughts you think they should have. Our job is not to recreate our minds and beliefs in their lives. They need to develop their own thoughts and feelings and learn to process them. 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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College Kids and Debt Q. My daughter is in college, and I’ve always warned her to stay away from credit cards. Recently, I learned she got a department store credit card despite my advice. She has stayed within her credit limit, but she has never made any of the payments. At this point, she owes about $3,500. She’s a good student, and I want to look at this as a young person’s mistake. Should I pay it off for her this one time? A.

You’re right, this is a typical young person’s mistake. Like a lot of mistakes our kids make, it’s one that’s bad and wonderful at the same time. It’s bad because, if she had just listened to dear old dad, she would’ve avoided a mess. It’s wonderful, though, because it gives you the opportunity to provide her with a real world, teachable moment. I understand you wanting to help her out “this one time.” It means you have a good heart, and that you care about your daughter

and love her. There’s a reality here, though, I hope you won’t overlook. It’s her debt, not yours. She knew what she was doing when she signed up for that credit card. She knew what it meant, what was expected, and she is the one who should have to make good on the repayment. At this point, my advice is to put your arm around her, talk to her, and lovingly explain where she went wrong and why it was a bad idea. You can even help her find a part-time job if she doesn’t have one right now, so she can pay off her debt and get out of this mess. But leave the payments to her.

smaller amounts and everything has worked out fine. What do you think about this?

mortgage. We’ve been working hard to pay off our home early, and we’ve reduced what we owe to around $35,000. His idea is to pay off the remainder, then let us pay him back over time. In the past, he has loaned us much

A. I’m sure this seems like a winning proposition all the way around. My concern is there’s a big spiritual and emotional issue that has been left out of the equation. The borrower is always slave to the lender, and nowhere is that more true than in a family. I understand, too, you have a solid track record with this kind of thing. But anytime you borrow money from family you’re playing with fire. When you do something like this, especially with such a large amount, the money issue is likely to be a shadow hovering over your relationship. I assume your father-in-law is doing well financially, since he can afford to make this offer. And don’t get me wrong, it’s a very kind and generous offer. If I were in his shoes, I might offer instead to pay off the mortgage as a gift No strings attached. If you have a nice, stable family, this debt will always be there in the back of your mind. If you have a dysfunctional, control-freak kind of family, it’s going to be right there in front of you constantly. Either way, I don’t think it’s worth the risk.

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Borrowing From Family Q. My father-in-law wants to help us with our

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Self-Determination at

By Heidi Smith Luedtke, PhD

Parents spend a lot of time trying to motivate kids. We use chore charts, checklists, reminders and rewards to get them to feed the dog, clean their rooms, and complete schoolwork. But these techniques don’t change behavior long-term. Real motivation must come from within.

The Psychology of Summer Camp Time at camp may be all it takes to spark a little self-determination in your kid. I know it sounds too good to be true. Your school-age slacker – the one who expects you to find his homework and pack his lunch – might start doing some things for himself. And your often-bored tween might come home with more pep in her step.

Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

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Psychologists use self-determination theory (SDT) to explain why some experiences make us feel engaged and excited while others drain and deplete us. The premise is simple: when an activity meets our needs for autonomy, competence, and relatedness, we are energized and empowered. Kids want to do things for themselves. They crave a sense of accomplishment and routinely seek feedback. And kids thrive on connections with loved ones and peers. Feelings of belongingness boost their self-worth. Summer camp offers loads of opportunities to meet all these needs. And that should make kids (and parents) very happy campers indeed.

Autonomy - The need for autonomy is

satisfied when kids control their own lives. At camp, your son will have endless opportunities to care for himself. Staff won’t select his clothes, organize the contents of locker, or remind him to put on deodorant. No one will delay dessert until he eats his veggies. Independence is what camp is all about. Don’t worry. The world won’t stop if your son wears the same shirt three days in a row. His peers will speak up if he gets super stinky. During the school year, many kids jump from one regularly scheduled activity to the next with no unstructured time in between.

Camp puts kids in charge of their own activities. Maybe your daughter will take a hike. Maybe she’ll paint pottery. Maybe she’ll write you an email. It is up to her to decide how she’ll spend her free time. One thing is certain: she won’t sit around whining about having nothing to do. And if she does, you won’t be there to hear it.

Competence - The need for competence is satisfied when kids learn new things and get positive feedback about their efforts. Your kid might choose a camp focused on art, science, sports, or music. Or he may opt for a good old-fashioned sleep-away experience, complete with row boats and weenie roasts. Some camp activities may be outside your kid’s comfort zone. Stretching is good. Your child may be unsure she can cross the slippery log over the creek. She may tremble with excitement about her role in the theater production. Peers and counselors will coax her along and give constructive advice. By the end of camp, she’ll be the star of her own adventure stories. If your kid is an experienced camper, encourage him to share what he knows with newbies. Being an ambassador or mentor affirms kids’ competence in a big way. Teaching a peer how to trim a sail or chip a golf ball out of the tall grass will

take your son’s skills to a higher level. His confidence will soar in response.

Relatedness - Your biggest concerns about summer camp may center on the social scene. Your child may not know anyone on arrival. That’s okay. Camps create connections in many ways. Your kid will be instantly bonded with bunkmates because they share a home base. Family-style dining and friendly competitions encourage interaction, too. The pursuit of shared goals – like building a robot or putting a frog in the counselor’s sleeping bag – cements kids’ camaraderie. Extroverted kids may make lots of friends at camp. Less sociable souls may not. What matters most is that kids have opportunities to talk, play and live with a diverse group of peers. They won’t all become fast friends. Learning to navigate the choppy waters of friendship formation is a big part of the camp experience. Your kid’s social skillset will expand – even if she doesn’t find a new BFF. No matter what your kid takes to camp, he’ll come home with a suitcase full of memories and a renewed sense of selfdetermination. You’ll see it as soon as he wakes from his long post-camp nap. WP Heidi Smith Luedtke, is a personality psychologist and mom of two adventurous kids.

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If your kids are going to sleepaway camp this summer, you may be wrestling with worries and what-ifs. What if he wets the bed? What if the other kids are cliquish or mean? Will the camp director

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Why Parents Worry “Much of our anxiety as parents stems from the fact that there are so many things we cannot control in our childrens’ lives,” says Paul Donahue, PhD, clinical psychologist and author of Parenting Without Fear. You may worry that without structure kids won’t be able to handle routine tasks like showering, brushing teeth or getting dressed. One mom I know felt so sure her son wouldn’t change clothes at camp that she packed

Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

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Anxiety is understandable, but it shouldn’t stop you from sending kids off to camp. It’s likely that many of your cherished childhood memories involve nature, new friends, and time to explore on your own. Summer camp offers all these opportunities and more. his items – one pair of underwear, shorts, shirt, and socks – in gallon-size Ziploc bags, labeled with the days of the week. Because parents focus so much on kids’ needs, it’s hard to step back. Coverage of natural disasters and child predators makes the world seem scary. “Concern about the safety of children has become something of a national obsession,” Donahue observes. Even though our protective instincts keep us on edge, sometimes we have to trust others to care for our kids, and trust our kids to look out for themselves. Fear of letting go can also be driven by our own uncertainty about who we are without our kids and what we’ll do while they’re away. Without baseball practice, piano lessons, bedtime routines and movie night, our lives would be slower and saner and…emptier.

How to Stop It Don’t let worries weigh you down. Use them as an opportunity to confront your own needs for safety, control, and closeness. Here’s how. Step back. Anxieties have a way of sucking you in. Your thoughts and emotions may be swirling like a tornado around you. Get out of the eye of the storm and reflect on your feelings. What (exactly) are your worries? Write them down so you can face them head on. Question your assumptions. Fears may be fueled by irrational beliefs. Kids don’t suffer serious malnutrition from week-long candy binges. And wearing dirty clothes 29

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to stretch beyond their comfort zones.

won’t kill them either. Concerned your temperamental child won’t fit in socially? Allow for the possibility she’ll find buddies to hang out with all on her own. Don’t let your beliefs limit kids’ potential. Keep goals in mind. Ultimately, parents want kids to become self-reliant, says Donahue, and building self-reliance requires parents do less, not more for their kids. Camp builds competence and independence. Give your kids time

Have a plan. Keep anxieties in control by making a plan for how you’ll use your “time off.” Schedule special time with siblings who aren’t going camping. Plan a romantic date or overnight getaway with your spouse. Learn something new or catch up on your favorite shows. Stay busy (but in a good way). You deserve a change of pace, too. Share stories. One sure-fire way to break out of anxiety is to remember and share the fun times you had at camp with your kids. Tell them where you went and what you did. The time you flipped your canoe

over and got sopping wet in the lake shouldn’t be a secret. Kids love to hear about parents’ camp adventures. Stay connected. The kids will be gone but not forgotten. Find fun postcards, print pictures of family pets, and collect care-package items to send. Getting mail from home makes kids feel special. Resist the urge to check in every day: kids need space. Send supplies so your kids can mail letters home. They’ll want to share their experiences and you’ll treasure their letters forever. Anxiety is understandable, but it shouldn’t stop you from sending kids off to camp. It’s likely that many of your cherished childhood memories involve nature, new friends, and time to explore on your own. Summer camp offers all these opportunities and more. It’ll be okay if they stay up too late, eat burned marshmallows, or lose their swim goggles in the lake. Really. WP Heidi Smith Luedtke, is a personality psychologist and mom of two adventurous kids. She is the author of Detachment Parenting. Learn more at HeidiLuedtke.com.

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Going Solo: Single Player Wins

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Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

Babies first experience solo play as they reach for mobiles, kick dangling toys in their bouncy seat and shake a rattle in their fist. But as they grow, children become more accustomed to playful interactions with parents and their peers. The importance of playing alone can get lost among the increasing social opportunities that many children enjoy. Nonetheless, solo play is vital to cultivating independence and encouraging individual problem solving. Playing alone also teaches kids how to self calm and to feel comfortable by themselves. The following toys and games offer ideal opportunities for kids to explore the ways they can be their own best playmate.

by Gerry Paige Smith

Kanoodle

RC Police Car

Colorful and compelling, Kanoodle is a tactile type of solitaire that stimulates threedimensional thinking in solo players. Using combinations of colored connected beads, the player follows images in the illustrated guide to construct vibrant designs that are either two-dimensional puzzles or layered structures. Visual cues, concentration, and experimentation all contribute to recreating the Kanoodle illustrations with the bead pieces. There are hundreds of possible combinations, but only one completes each puzzle.Compact and portable, the puzzle pieces fit inside the handy pocket-sized case with built-in game boards, so kids can Kanoodle anywhere!

There are vast options for remote control toys with varying degrees of performance and complexity. But the best start for a child’s RC journey is going to be a simply operated vehicle like the RC Police Car from Haktoys. Two directions of travel (forward and reverse left) and the simple two-button controller minimize frustration for new operators. Crafted from non-toxic plastic, the vehicle features honking sounds, music and flashing lights (which can also be turned off for quieter driving). The police car includes a removable officer for more pretend play options. Letting kids take the wheel empowers them with control and independence as they guide their RC Police Car to the rescue!

Find It Game Jr: Sesame Street

Little People Learn About Others

The popular Find It Games feature a sealed clear plastic tube filled with irregularly shaped pellets that hide distinctive treasures within their tumbled mass. The player consults a legend with cues to a series of themed objects that can only be found by spinning, twisting, shaking and tilting the cylinder. As the pellets shift, sharp eyes dart to find and identify the objects from the list. Specially designed for younger players, the Sesame Street Find It Game features extra figures to uncover and a Way to Play booklet with additional challenges as children start their addictive quest to find every signature object from the Sesame Street world, right between the palms of their hands.

Every spin reveals something new with this See ‘n Say toy. With a pull of the lever, the arrow will spin around the face before selecting one of eight different community members. Featuring a farmer, a teacher, a pilot and more familiar roles in our lives, each character shares a short phrase explaining how they help others. And while a child learns about others, they can also learn about themselves. A hinged ring flips open to reveal eight emotions with expressions that kids can explore. In addition to building a measure of dexterity and fine motor control as they steady the toy and pull the lever, there’s a fun quiz mode to help build their confidence! Ideal for solo play, this new See ‘n Say helps children learn about the people in their community while they also discover more about feelings.

(Haktoys)

(Educational Insights)

(Fisher Price)

(Find It Games)

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

2019

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Art Camps Art Around the World ad on page 7

Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave, Dothan, AL 36303 Come and learn about art from all over the world! Each day will bring students to a different culture and country. Campers will create a work of art based on a different country and its culture each day. Dates:July 8-12 Ages:9+ Cost:$55 member; $65 not-yet member (334) 794-3871 info@wiregrassmuseum.org www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Arty Pants for Toddlers ad on page 7

Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave, Dothan, AL 36303 Your little one will enjoy creating art in different ways in this special hands-on camp designed for parents and toddlers. Using your powerful imagination, each day we will explore a new book and technique to create your very own messterpieces! Dates:June 24-28 Ages:18 months-4 Years Cost:$45 member; $55 not-yet member (334) 794-3871 info@wiregrassmuseum.org www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Clay Explorations ad on page 7

Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave, Dothan, AL 36303 This camp will allow students to get their hands messy in clay! They will create multiple works while using different techniques such as scoring and slipping, surface decoration, and glazing. Dates:July 22-26 Ages:5-8 years & 9+ Cost:$75 member; $85 not-yet member (334) 794-3871 info@wiregrassmuseum.org www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Creating Clay Creatures ad on page 7

Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave, Dothan, AL 36303 Pulling inspiration from Kevin Irwin’s Wiregrass Dragon, this camp will take students through an Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

exploration of different hand-building techniques to create their own ceramic creature! Finished pieces will be created in the camp and will be available to be picked up two weeks after the camp is completed. Dates:July 15-19 Ages:7+ Cost:$65 member; $75 not-yet member (334) 794-3871 info@wiregrassmuseum.org www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Discovering Art ad on page 7

Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave, Dothan, AL 36303 Join WMA for a week of discovery as we learn about the artwork on display in the museum! After talking about the artist and learning how their artwork was created, students will then create their own unique work using the same techniques. Come explore action painting, photography, and more! Dates:June 10-14, 17-21 Ages:5-8 years & 9+ Cost:$65 member; $75 not-yet member (334) 794-3871 info@wiregrassmuseum.org www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Elementary Summer Arts Camps ad on page 29

All About Art, 100 S. Main St, Enterprise, AL 36330 Themed weeks include art projects in canvas, clay, wood, mixed media, and pottery painting. Limited seating. Dates:Mermaids Are Real June17-21; Art Explorers June 24-28; Happy Camper July 8-12 Ages:1st-6th grades Cost:Single Session $125; 2 Sessions $230; 3 Sessions $330 (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.allaboutartstudio.com

Preschool Island Adventures ad on page 29

All About Art, 100 S. Main St, Enterprise, AL 36330 Projects include canvas, clay, wood, mixed media, ceramics, and featured artist of the week. Tuition includes t-shirt and snacks. One session only. Limited seating - register early! Dates:July 15-19 Ages:4 years-Kindergarten Cost:$125 (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.allaboutartstudio.com

Stop-Motion Animation Workshop ad on page 7

Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave., Dothan, AL 36303 Students will learn how to plan, design, and photograph their own stop-motion animation short film! Pulling inspiration from professional film makers, students will create a storyboard, and design their character(s) and set before photographing their film. Dates:June 3-7 Ages:9+ Cost:$75 member; $85 not-yet member (334) 794-3871 info@wiregrassmuseum.org www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Teen Summer Arts Camp: Beach Bums ad on page 29

All About Art, 100 S. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Designed especially for teen artists. Projects include drawing, wood, painting, clay, ceramic painting, and mixed media. Tuition includes t-shirt and snacks. One session only. Limited class size register early! Dates:July 15-19 Ages:7th-12th grades Cost:$125 (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.allaboutartstudio.com

Creative Crafts Art Camp

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 This camp encourages out of the box thinking as students work through creating a work of art. Dates:TBD Ages:Ages 7+ Cost:TBD (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Dragons and Knights War Art Camp

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 We will have obstacle courses, races, chivalry classes, draw and paint knights and dragons from different cultures we study, and more. Dates:TBD Ages:Boys 8-13 years Cost:TBD (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Monet’s Garden Art Camp

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 We will learn about the life and art of impressionist

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(334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Renew | Reuse | Recycle

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 Campers will use their imagination to both “go green” and create something new from something old. Dates:TBD Ages:10-13 years Cost:TBD (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

The Starry Night Art Camp

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 Learn about the life and art of Vincent Van Gogh while we create! Dates:TBD Ages:10-13 years Cost:TBD (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Church Camps Mom’s Day Out & Stepping Stones Preschool

“Wild Wacky Wonderful” Summer Camp ad on page 7

Enterprise First United Methodist Church, 217 S. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Thematic weekly units that organize developmentally appropriate activities. Music, games, arts & crafts and activities in a loving, supportive environment. Time 9:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Dates:June 17-July 11 Ages:13 months-Rising 5th Graders Cost:Registration fee: $35 (Ages 13-29 months); $40 All other Classes; Camp for all weeks: $230

(334) 393-2536 MDO@efumc.com www.efumc.com

To Mars and Beyond Vacation Bible School ad on page 7

Enterprise First United Methodist Church, 217 S. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Join us as we explore the bible in space! Excellent week of fun, fellowship and learning to love the Lord and each other. Times 8:30 a.m.-12:00 p.m. Family Fun Night June 13 @ 6:00 p.m. T-shirts $5. Dates:June 10-13 Ages:Age 4-Rising 6th Graders Cost:Free

(334) 393-2536 children@efumc.com www.efumc.com

WinShape Camp ad on page 21

Enterprise High School, 1801 Boll Weevil Circle, Enterprise, AL 36330 WinShape Camps exists to impact young people through experiences that will enhance their Christian faith, character, and relationships. Dates:July 15-19 Ages:Completed K-8th Grades Cost:$219 Week/Scholarships Available

(334) 477-3051 winshapecampsenterprise@gmail.com camps.winshape.org/

Youth Week at EFUMC ad on page 7

Enterprise First United Methodist Church, 217 S. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 A week of Fun, Food, and Fellowship for teens. With dynamic speakers and praise and worship band, this week is one to remember. Teens will learn about God’s purpose for them! You do not want to miss all the fun and games! Dates:June 23-27 Ages:Rising 7th-12th Graders Cost:Free

(334) 393-2536 youth@efumc.com www.efumc.com

Camp Victory

863 Victory Circle, Samson, AL 36477 Camp Victory exists to help young people experience the victory that comes from knowing the Lord Jesus Christ as Savior and walking with Him. Activities include swimming, sports, crafts, fishing, and Bible classes. Dates:June 3-8, 10-15, 17-22, 24-29; July 1-6, 8-13, 15-20, 22-27 Ages:3rd-12th grades (334) 898-7948 office@campvictoryal.org www.campvictoryal.org/summercamp

Camp Wiregrass

264 Wiregrass Rd., Geneva, AL 36340 A Christian summer youth camp, giving young people a safe, happy place to spend time with friends and learn to live by Bible principles and receive Jesus Christ as their Saviour. Dates:June 2-7, 9-14, 16-21, 23-28; June 30-July 5; July 7-12, 14-19, 21-26 Ages:1st-12th grades (334) 347-0111 info@campwiregrass.info www.campwiregrass.info/

Children’s IncrediCamp 2019

Vineyard Christian Retreat, 245 County Road 131, Ariton, AL 36311 Swimming, canoeing, kayaking, organized games, relays, team obstacle course, and more. Those who attend will get to experience a fun-filled camp and also receive Christ-centered, Biblical teaching. Dates:July 8-10 Ages:1st-6th grades Cost:$110 by May 31; $120 after May 31 (334) 762-2256 info@vineyardretreat.org vineyardretreat.org

WIRED

Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36303 Each member attending the full week will be placed in one of our many Ministry Team Opportunites and serve there the entire week of Wired. Dates:June 23-28 Cost:$249 per person info@wiredministries.com wiredministries.com

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and swimming lesson. Camp hours are Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Registration is May 7 at Doug Tew from 4:00-6:00 p.m. Dates: June 3-July 26 Ages: 6-12 years Cost: $100

2019

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Dothan Boys & Girls Club Summer Program

Guide Dance Camps Creative Movement Camp

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 Designed to teach pre-schoolers a variety of movement techniques that involve dance, gymnastics, and floor exercise to things they already do naturally like running, skipping, jumping, and arm waving. Dates:TBD Ages:3-5 years Cost:TBD (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Dance Camp 1 & 2

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 Designed to bring students together to learn basic ballet, jazz, and lyrical dance in a camp that encourages creativity through movement. Dates:TBD Ages: 6-9 years & 10-13 years Cost:TBD (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Day Camps 2019 Summer Enrichment Program

Hawk-Houston Youth Enrichment Center, 329 Chickasaw St., Dothan, AL 36302 Activities include performing & visual arts, academic enrichment, college and career access, sports and fitness, gardneing, life skills, and field trips. Dates: June 3-July 26 Ages: 6-14 years Cost: 1 Child $480; 2 Children $880; 3 Children $1,280; 4 Children $1,600 (334) 792-4618 hawkhoustonyec@gmail.com www.hawkhoustonyec.org

Adventure Camp

City of Enterprise Parks & Recreation Properties and Facilites, 421 E. Lee St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Arts and crafts, supervised play, group discussions, guest speakers, cooking classes, field trips and more. Registration begins May 1. Dates: May 28-July 26 Ages: 5-12 years old Cost: First child $35; Additional Children $30 each (334) 348-2682 ghunt@enterpriseal.gov www.enterpriseal.gov

Camp Choctaw

Doug Tew Recreation Center, 300 Garland St., Dothan, AL 36303 The session includes a t-shirt, field trips, arts, craft Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

457 S. Alice St., Dothan, AL 36301 Fun experiences with an opportunity to meet new friends, participate in sporting activities, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime. Dates: June 3-28 & July 1-26 Ages: 1st-8th Grade Cost: Both Sessions: 1 Child $540, 2 Children $980, 3 Children $1350, 4 Children $1650; Single Session: 1 Child $270, 2 Children $490, 3 Children $675, 4 Children $825 (334) 792-8787 ldickens@bgcwiregrass.com www.bgcwiregrass.org/summer-program

Middle City Boys & Girls Club Program

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(334) 445-0512 jessicabgc@yahoo.com www.bgcseal.com

48 2nd St., Midland City, AL 36350 Price includes breakfast, lunch, t-shirt, & membership. Program hours 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Dates: June 3-July 26 Ages: Midland City School Students Only Cost: $160 per child

Ozark Boys & Girls Club Summer Program

Main Unit, 195 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave., Ozark, AL 36360 Price includes breakfast, lunch, 2 t-shirts, & membership. Additional cost for field trips. Program hours 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Dates: June 3-July 26 Ages: 6-13 years Cost: 1 Child $285; 2 Children $570; 3 Children $730; 4 Children $890 (334) 445-0512 jessicabgc@yahoo.com www.bgcseal.com

Ozark Boys & Girls Club Summer Program

Glenway Unit, 180 Floyd Dr., Ozark, AL 36360 Price includes breakfast, lunch, 2 t-shirts, & membership. Additional cost for field trips. Program hours 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Dates: June 3-July 26 Ages: 6-13 years Cost: $165 per Child (334) 445-0512 jessicabgc@yahoo.com www.bgcseal.com

(334) 347-9520 bgcwenterprise@gmail.com www.bgcwiregrass.org/summerprogram

Geneva Boys & Girls Club Summer Program

411 N. Iris St., Geneva, AL 36340 Fun experiences with an opportunity to meet new friends, participate in sporting activities, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime. Dates: June 3-July 19 Ages: K-8th Grade Cost: 1 Child $325; 2 Children $500; 3 Children $700; 4 Children $900 (334) 684-6028 bgcwgeneva@gmail.com www.bgcwiregrass.org/summerprogram

Girls Inc. Summer Program

785 S. Foster St., Dothan, AL The program includes weekly field trips, educational activities, structured/unstructured fun, talent shows, and arts and crafts. Dates: June 3-July 26 Ages: K-8th Grade Cost: $45 per Week

(334) 793-2321 girlsincdothan.org/

Junior Ranger Camps

Kolomoki Mounds State Park, Blakely, GA 39823 Learn about the environment, conservation, safety and wildlife to earn a Junior Ranger badge. Daily outdoor activities and swimming. Dates: June 10-13 & July 8-11 Ages: 8-12 years Cost: $70 (229) 724-2150

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Enterprise Boys & Girls Club Summer Program

301 N. Ouida St., Enterprise, AL Fun experiences with an opportunity to meet new friends, participate in sporting activities, discover new interests and create memories that last a lifetime. Dates: June 3-July 26 Ages: 1st-8th Grade Cost: $400 per child

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Landmark Park Spring Break Day Camps ad on page 41

Address: 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan AL 36303 Times: 10:00 a.m. daily, Cost: $4 Adults, $3 Kids, Members Free www.landmarkparkdothan.com March 25 - Guided Nature Hike: Join Master Naturalist Lisa Lopez for a guided nature hike around the boardwalk. Listen for bird songs, look for fish and turtles and check out what’s blooming this spring. The boardwalk is handicap accessible. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing and shoes. March 26 - Life of a Honeybee: Join beekeeper Rosalyn Horton and learn all about bees! Discover how a hive works together, try out the “waggle dance” and create fun arts and crafts. March 27 - Nature Art: Create a beautiful work of art using leaves, sticks and other items found in nature. March 28 - Old Fashioned Fun!: Learn about toys and games that kids played in the 1890s with Landmark Park Agricultural Museum Curator Kari Barley. Step back in time with a game of tug-o’-war, marbles, jacks and more! March 29 - Soda Shop Memories: Join Soda Jerk Celeste Conner for a trip down memory lane with a tour of the Martin Drugstore. Hear the story of the Drugstore, learn how the soda fountain works, explore the artifacts and enjoy a sweet treat.

Hawk-Houston Youth Enrichment Cente r Spring Break Camp

March 25-29, 329 Chickasaw St., Dothan AL 36302 (334) 792-4618, hawkhoustonyec@gmail.com, www.hawkhoustonyec.com Ages 6-14 (K-8) Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Cost: 1 Child $50; 2 Children $90; 3 Children $125; 4 Children $150; $10 Application Fee for New Participants. Registration Deadline March 11. Arts and crafts, computer skills/lab, academic enrichment skills, life skills, sports/fitness/recreation games/water slide, x-box games, board games, introduction to college and career choices, lunch and movie, community service projects, field trip, and more!

Ozark-Dale Co. Public Library Spring Break Program 416 James St., Ozark AL 36360, www.odcpl.com Tuesday, March 26 - Big Bend Wildlife Sanctuary @ 10:30 a.m. Wednesday March 27 - Flower Planting @ 10:30 a.m. Thursday, March 28 - Paint & Slime @ 10:30 a.m. Friday, March 29 - Popcorn & a Movie 10:30 a.m.

Fort Rucker Spring Break Camp

March 25-29, Youth Center Bldg. 2800 Fort Rucker, AL 36362 Take a break and join the Youth Center for their Spring Break Camp March 25-29 from 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. Children will partake in a Field Trip to Dave and Busters, Arts & Crafts, Cooking, Technology Sports, and so much more! For more information contact Youth Center, (334) 255-2271 or (334) 255-2260.

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Educational Camps

Playground Program

Wiregrass Park, Dothan, AL Structured, supervised events such as field trips, arts and crafts, gym games, and special events. Dates: June 3-July 26 Ages: 6-12 years Cost: First Child $20; Additional Child $5; 3 or More Children $30

Alabama School of Math and Science-

Adventures in Math and Science Summer Camp

(334) 615-3700

ad on Inside Back Cover

1255 Dauphin Street, Mobile, AL 36604 Dates: June 3 - 7, 2019 and June 17 - 21, 2019 for ages 6th grade - 10th grade. Cost if registered by April 1st: $360 (Overnight) or $260 (Day Camp) and includes lunch. Cost for weekend between is an additional fee of $185 and includes trip to waterpark. Camp Registration Deadline is May 1, 2019. Please visit our website for camp descriptions and registration instructions.

Playground Program

Walton Park & Andrew Bell Center, Dothan, AL Structured, supervised events such as field trips, arts and crafts, gym games, and special events. Dates: June 3-July 26 Ages: 6-15 years Cost: First Child $20; Additional Child $5; 3 or More Children $30 (334) 615-3700

South Dale Boys & Girls Club Summer Program

309 Randolph St., Pinckard, AL 36371 Price includes breakfast, lunch, t-shirt, & membership. Program hours 7:30 a.m.-6:00 p.m. Dates: June 3-July 26 Ages: South Dale Middle School Students Only Cost: $160 per child (334) 445-0512 jessicabgc@yahoo.com www.bgcseal.com

YMCA Kinder Camp

Enterprise YMCA, 904 Ozark Hwy., Enterprise, AL 36330 Dates: May 28-August 2 Ages: 2.5-5 years Cost: Weekly: 1 Child - $85 Members, $95 Nonmembers / 2 Children - $127 Members, $142 Non-members / 3 Children - $170 Members, $190

(251) 441-2100 aims@asma.net www.asms.net

Non-members

(334) 347-4513 enymca@centurylink.net www.enymca.org

2019 GEMS

Enterprise YMCA, 904 Ozark Hwy., Enterprise, AL 36330 Dates: May 28-August 2 Ages: 5-12 years Cost: Weekly: 1 Child - $85 Members, $95 Nonmembers / 2 Children - $127 Members, $142 Non-members / 3 Children - $170 Members, $190 Non-members

US Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory (USAARL), 6901 Farrel Road, Fort Rucker, AL 36362 Students learn math and science concepts; practice the scientific method, problem solving, and speaking in a public forum; gain exposure to a laboratory setting; and interact with military and civilian technicians, clinicians, scientists, and engineers. Dates: June 17-21 & 24-28, July 8-12 & 15-19 Ages: Rising 4th-11th Graders Cost: Free

(334) 347-4513 enymca@centurylink.net www.enymca.org

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

Youth Adventure Camp

Emmanuel Christan School Summer Camp

YMCA Summer Camp

Eastgate Park, 1949 Sanitary Dairy Rd., Ashford, AL 36312 Campers will enjoy archery, swimming and lots of outdoor fun and fitness. Fee includes camp t-shirt. Dates: June 10-14 Ages: 8-14 years Cost: $50 (334) 615-3700

Emmanuel Christian School, 178 Earline Rd., Dothan, AL 36305 Each day will be filled with activities, sports, and social time. There are new field trips, games, movies, crafts, songs and stories. Cost: Full Summer $457; $25/day Drop In; $50

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Summer Teen Volunteer Program

Flowers Hospital, 4370 W. Main St., Dothan, AL 36305 Our summer teen volunteer program offers the opportunity to learn firsthand about the healthcare industry and the services provided to patients. Ages: 14-17 years

2019

(334) 793-5000 www. flowershospital.com/studentvolunteers

Martial Arts

Guide

Registration Fee for Non-Students

(334) 792-0935 sredmond@emmanuelchristian.org www.emmanuelchristian.org

STEAM Camp

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 We will explode rockets, test the strength of our bucket towers, build a balloon car, test the strength of spaghetti, create an alcohol dye shirt, and complete a walking color rainbow experiment. Dates: TBD Ages: 8-12 years Cost: TBD (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Summer Spectacular

Troy University-Dothan, 500 University Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Dates: June 18-20, 25-27 Ages: 4-12 years Cost: $30 per week (334) 983-6556 ext: 21309 hicksc@troy.edu

Health & Fitness Camp Seale Harris for Children with Diabetes

Westgate Park, 501 Recreation Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 Program includes swimming, sports, games, and crafts. One sibling/friend may also register and pay to attend. Dates: June 17-21 Ages: 5-15 years Cost: $175 (205) 402-0415 info@campsealeharris.org campsealeharris.org/

Camp WheezeAway

Camp Chandler, 1240 Jordan Dam Rd., Wetumpka, AL 26092 A week long summer camp for children with moderate to severe asthma. Dates: May 26-31 Ages: 8-12 years Cost: Free (334) 799-3449 brendabasnight@yahoo.com ymcamontgomery.org/camp/wheezeaway/

Fitness Advantage

2292 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 3 day boot-camps for girls starting in June. Women Empowering young Women through Fitness and Spiritual growth. Dates: June Ages: Ages 12+ (334) 702-8888 fit4ladies@aol.com

Healthy Mind Day Camp

Living Waters Counseling, 2130 County Road 125, Headland, AL 36345 Dates: June 11-14 Ages: 4th-6th grades Cost: $10 (includes lunch/snack) (334) 693-3380 info@lwcounseling.net www.lwcounseling.net

Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

Enterprise USKA Martial Arts Summer Karate Camp

1145 James Dr., Enterprise, AL 36330 Includes karate, trips, basketball, swimming, bowling, arts and crafts, movies, and much more. Dates: May 28-31 / June 3-7, 10-14, 17-21, 24-28 / July 1-5, 8-12, 15-19, 22-26 / July 29-August 2 Cost: $75 per week (334) 475-4308 uskainfo@scorpionkarate1.com www.scorpionkarate1.com

Wolfpack Mixed Martial Arts

2952 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan, AL 36301 Sports, educational activities, games, and field trips. Spots limited. Ages: 5-12 years (334) 677-2002 mmadothan@gmail.com www.mmadothan.com

World Yoshukai Karate Summer Camp

Lakepoint Resort, 104 Lakepoint Dr., Eufaula, AL 36027 Weapons training, self-defense, kickboxing, specialty kids classes, intro classes for guests and more. Reservations must be made by May 25. Dates: June 15-16 Cost: $75 per person; $105 Family of Two; $120 Family of 3+ (334) 794-8238 worldyoshukai@graceba.net www.wykko.com

Regional Camps Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 3

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 2019 Camps run from May-August. An all girls overnight camp with one and two-week summer sessions for ages 6-16 years. Horse riding, swimming, nature trails, arts and crafts, and much more! Also offering weekend retreats for mother-daughter adventures. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Dates: May, June & July Ages: 6-16 years Cost: 1 Week Session $2,075 / 2 Week Session $3,850 (800) 882-0722 www.riverviewcamp.org

Blue Lake Methodist Camp

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

Camp Mac

2671 Cheaha Road, Munford, AL 36268 Throughout every day, our campers participate in programs ranging from Arts and Crafts to Zip Lines! Dates: June-August Ages: 1st-8th Grade Cost: Varies by Camp

(256) 362-7449 office@campmac.com campmac.com

Camp Skyline Ranch

4888 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, AL 35984 Camp Skyline is a residential, summer camp in northern Alabama for girls. We are a Christian camp and seek to do everything for the glory of God and the encouragement of our campers. Dates: June & July Ages: 6-16 years Cost: 2-Week Camps $4,130 / Mini Camp $2,220 1 (800) 448-9279 info@campskyline.com www. campskyline.com

Free No-Contact Football Clinic

Palâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Park, 1544 N. Railroad Ave., Chipley, FL 32428 We will cover many areas of athleticism like speed and agility as well as football specific skills. Dates: MWF June 17-July 12 Ages: 5-12 years Cost: Free (850) 866-0983 Washingtoncountydolphins@gmail. com washingtoncountypopwarner.com

Montgomery Zoo Summer Camps

2301 Coliseum Pkwy., Montgomery, AL 36110 Dates: June 3-7, 10-14, 17-21, 24-28 / July 8-12, 15-19, 22-26 Ages: 5-12 years Cost: Full Day - $179 Members, $199 Non-Members / Half Day $139 Members, $155 Non-Members (334) 625-4900 zooinfo@montgomeryal.gov montgomeryzoo.com

Scouting Camps Camp AlaFlo (Boy Scouts)

1687 County Road 156, New Brockton, AL 36351

(334) 793-7882 joe.maxwell@scouting.org www.bsa3. org/campalaflo

Mini-Brownie (Girl Scouts)

Camp Scoutshire Woods, 6051 Scoutshire Camp Rd. North, Citronelle, AL 36522 This three-day and two-night session will allow you to try a variety of the fun camp activities and help develop your camping skills. Open to non-Girl Scouts. Dates: June 9-11, 16-18 Ages: 2nd-3rd Grade Girls Cost: $280 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Mini-Brownie (Girl Scouts)

Kamp Kiwanis, 2365 Kamp Kiwanis Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 This three-day and two-night session will allow you to try a variety of the fun camp activities and help develop your camping skills. Open to non-Girl Scouts. Dates: June 23-25, July 7-9 Ages: 2nd-3rd Grade Girls Cost: $280 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Mini-Junior (Girl Scouts)

Camp Scoutshire Woods, 6051 Scoutshire Camp Rd. North, Citronelle, AL 36522 This three-day and two-night session will allow you to try a variety of the fun camp activities and help develop your camping skills. Open to non-Girl Scouts. Dates: June 9-11, 16-18 Ages: 4th-5th Grade Girls Cost: $280 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Mini-Junior (Girl Scouts)

www.wiregrassparents.com

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Dates: June 23-28, July 7-12 Ages: 2nd-3rd, 4th-5th, 6th-12th Grade Girls Cost: $480 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

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Sail Away Camp (Girl Scouts)

Kamp Kiwanis, 2365 Kamp Kiwanis Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 Girls will spend every day in a sail boat as they hone their skills on beautiful Lake Martin. Open to non-Girl Scouts. Dates: May 31-June 7 Ages: 5th11th Grade Girls Cost: $695

(800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Dates: June 23-25, July 7-9 Ages: 4th-5th Grade Girls Cost: $280 (800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

Mystery Camp Adventures (Girl Scouts)

Camp Scoutshire Woods, 6051 Scoutshire Camp Rd. North, Citronelle, AL 36522 Enjoy all of the classic and memorable camp activities (swimming, boating, archery, zip line, crafts) and sign up for special “free-choice” adventure activities. Dates: June 9-14, 16-21 Ages: 2nd-3rd, 4th-5th, 6th-12th Grade Girls Cost: $480

Special Needs

Walton Park Recreation Center, 122 Walton Park Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Campers enjoy games, crafts, music and other fun activities. Transportation is provided for up to 24 participants inside the Dothan City limits. Dates: June 24-28 Ages: 6-18 years Cost: Free (334) 615-4743

Sports Camps Challenger International Soccer Camp Enterprise YMCA Fitness Center, 904 Hwy 27, Enterprise, AL 36330 Dates: June 17-21 Ages: 3-14 Years Cost: Tiny Tykes $90; Half Day Program $135; Full Day Program $195

enterpriseselectsoccer@outlook.com enterpriseselectsoccer.com

Elite Basketball Camp

Camp ASCCA ad on page 33

2578 Camp ASCCA Dr., Jackson’s Gap, AL 36861 Weekend and week-long sessions year round. Activities include horseback riding, fishing, tubing, swimming, environmental education, arts and crafts, canoeing, a splash pad, and zip line.

(800) 239-6636 www.girlscoutssa.org

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

Mystery Camp Adventures (Girl Scouts)

Camp Rap-A-Hope

Kamp Kiwanis, 2365 Kamp Kiwanis Rd., Eclectic, AL 36024 Enjoy all of the classic and memorable camp activities (swimming, boating, archery, zip line, crafts) and sign up for special “free-choice” adventure activities twice a day.

Camp Smile

2701 Airport Blvd., Mobile, AL 36606 Children who have been diagnosed with cancer at ANY point in their life are invited. Dates: June 2-8 Ages: 7-17 years Cost: Free (251) 476-9880 info@camprapahope.org www.camprapahope.org

Troy University, Troy, AL 36082 Dates: June 13 Ages: High School Girls Cost: $85 (334) 670-3688 www.troy.edu

Little Dribblers Camp

Troy University, Troy, AL 36082 Dates: June 3-6 Ages: 4-12 years Cost: $100 (334) 670-3688 www.troy.edu

Team Basketball Camp

Troy University, Troy, AL 36082 Dates: June 14-15 Ages: High School, AAU, Club Teams Cost: Prices Vary (334) 670-3688 www.troy.edu

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Cost: $120 per child (334) 794-0400 seact@ seact.com www.seact.com

2019

Unique Camps Fairies Art Camp

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 We will paint fairy ceramics, make fairy wands and houses, draw fairy self portraits, create fairy gardens, make fairy charm bracelets, and the last day of camp we will have a fairy dress up party! Dates: TBD Ages: Girls 6-12 years Cost: TBD

Guide Theater Camps SEACT Summer Theatre Camps

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36303 Campers learn the basics of theatre including public speaking, costumes, props, choreography, blocking, lighting and backstage. The plays are performed for a FREE audience on Fridays at the conclusion of each camp week. Dates: June 10-14; June 17-21; July 15-19; July 22-26 Ages: 5-16 years

(334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

FORTNITE Camp

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 We will create, build, paint, sculpt masks, a battle bus, a weapon, your Skin, a pickax and an X=4 Storm Wing Airplane. Dates: TBD Ages: 8-12 years Cost: TBD (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Fun Zone Summer Camp

Fun Zone Skate Center, 465 Westgate Pkwy., Dothan, AL 36303 Dates: May 27-August 2 Ages: 5-12 years Cost:

First Chid $99 per week; Additional Children $91 per week (334) 678-PLAY asz@funzonedothan.com www.funzoneskatecenterdothan.com

Let’s Make a Circus

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 We will create Circus Ring with flags and banners, wild animals in a cage, an elephant doing a trick, an acrobat on a trapeze, and a pony pulling the circus wagon. Dates: TBD Ages: 5-7 years Cost: TBD (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Royal Unicorn Magic Camp

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 We will do everything related to unicorns, princesses and the magic of imagination. We will draw, paint and sculpt our own unicorns, dress up like a princess, complete a mixed media unicorn, rainbow t’s, and make unicorn inspired slime. Dates: TBD Ages: 6-12 years Cost: TBD (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Twisted Tales

Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 Twisted Tales is for every child who wished their favorite folk or fairy tale had a different ending. We explore the world of “what if” through games, movement, vocal training, drawing, performing, and character development. Dates: TBD Ages: 9-12 years Cost: TBD (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org WP

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The Lego Movie 2

Isn’t It Romantic?

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: B Violence: C+ Sexual Content: A Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: A Everything isn’t awesome anymore. Lego Duplo invaders have been attacking the Lego world for five years, destroying all attempts at rebuilding. Giving up in despair, the citizens finally stop trying, harden themselves, and rename their community Apocalypseburg. But for Emmet Brickowski (voiced by Chris Pratt), awesomeness is a state of mind. Emmet remains relentlessly upbeat, focusing on the good things in life like his friend Lucy (voiced by Elizabeth Banks) and his brand new house. Even when he tries to assume a brooding attitude, his cheerfulness keeps breaking through. Until the aliens return. This time their ship destroys Emmet’s home and seizes Lucy and some other friends – and it’s partly Emmet’s fault. Torn apart by grief and guilt, Emmet builds a spaceship and launches himself into outer space, determined to turn himself into the kind of strong, tough guy who is capable of rescuing his friends. And then he meets Rex Dangervest, who is the kind of guy Emmet wants to be. “You need to be a master breaker”, Rex tells the master builder and encourages him to tap into his dark feelings to make that transformation. Can Emmet change? Should he? Parents will be happy to have their youngsters exposed to messages about having a positive attitude, remaining hopeful in hard times, working together, being open to different perspectives, and – here’s the motherlode – getting along with siblings. Best of all, this production delivers all of these uplifting messages without profanity, vulgar jokes or potty humor. There is a fair bit of Lego violence but none of it is scary and, obviously, it isn’t gory either.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: BViolence: B Sexual Content: BProfanity: CAlcohol / Drug Use: CNatalie (Rebel Wilson) hates romantic comedies. She complains to her friends, Josh (Adam Devine) and Whitney (Betty Gilpin) about the clichés found in the genre – the gay best friend who doesn’t have a job, the female office nemesis, the iconic stopping-the-wedding scene. Natalie looks at her life - small apartment, lonely social calendar, and a job where she is overlooked and undervalued – and decrees that rom-coms are deceptive fantasies. Then everything changes. Natalie is concussed after a subway mugging and wakes up in a different world. Her apartment is large and full of shoes, her terse neighbor, Donny (Brandon Scott Jones) has morphed into her gay sidekick, Whitney is trying to destroy her career, and she is being determinedly pursued by handsome billionaire Blake (Liam Hemsworth). The only thing that feels familiar is Josh – until he has a meet-cute with swimsuit model Isabella. Panicking in this unfamiliar universe, Natalie frantically tries to figure out how to get back to her own reality. Isn’t It Romantic? covers familiar ground but it does so with a pronounced wink to the audience. The song and dance numbers, the overthe-top dinner dates, the kiss in the rain – all the quintessential rom-com elements are here but are presented tongue in cheek. What viewers are likely to complain about is the production’s excessive use of profanity. A feel good movie like this doesn’t need the almost four dozen curses, terms of deity and crude words. And it doesn’t need the vulgar sexual innuendo. These negative content issues are particularly disappointing because they spoil a film that is otherwise a great product for teens.

How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World

Fighting with My Family

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: BSexual Content: AProfanity: A Alcohol / Drug Use: A How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World continues the saga of the people of Berk, whose lives are so bound up with dragons that they have turned their community into a sanctuary for the creatures they rescue from captivity. All is well under the leadership of their young chief, Hiccup, until dragon-hungry warlords band together and hire the infamous hunter, Grimmel, to kill Hiccup’s sidekick. His dragon is special: Toothless is a night fury, the alpha whose rule is acknowledged by all other dragons. With Toothless dead, his subjects will be disorganized and easier to capture. After some frightening encounters with Grimmel, Hiccup decides that the only way to keep the dragons safe is to go on a quest for a mythical land he heard about from his late father, Stoick. The Hidden Kingdom is the rumored ancestral home of the dragons and is a place where they can be safely separated from violent, greedy humans. Hiccup and his friend Astrid persuade the Berkians to make the journey. But then a female night fury turns up and Toothless falls in love. As it usually does, love makes everything more complicated. The only potential area of concern for parents is violence, of which there is a significant amount. But the action is heavily sanitized, without any blood, gore, or visible suffering. It is a highly entertaining film, with a good mixture of action and humor, plus has numerous positive messages that parents will want their kids to absorb.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+; Violence: B Sexual Content: B Profanity: C; Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ Fighting with My Family is the touching true story of WWE wrestler Saraya “Paige” Bevis, a young girl from Norwich who dreams of competing at the highest levels of professional wrestling. With help from her father Ricky (Nick Frost), a local wrestling promoter, and mother Julia (Lena Headey), a wrestler herself, Paige and her brother Zack (Jack Lowden) struggle to succeed in the taxing world of wrestling. When the WWE holds tryouts nearby, both Paige and Zack are invited to attend. However, when only Paige is chosen to proceed, Zack takes it hard. Will Paige be able to put aside her brother’s ill feelings and complete the training? And will she be able to see past her own struggles to get the championship belt she has dreamed about for so long? This movie has a very My Big Fat Greek Wedding meets Creed vibe, with all of the quirky family fun of the former and the competitive sport tradition of the latter. As the title suggests, family is very much at the center of this film, and Paige’s friends and relatives have more than enough personality to make the whole movie shine. Individuals are witty but still realistically flawed, making for a really appealing cast of characters. Ricky and Coach Hutch Morgan (Vince Vaughn) stood out for me as some of the funniest characters in the script, but both characters are convincingly complex and have shadows in their past. And Stephen Merchant’s smart, snappy dialogue adds zest to the entire production. The great thing about the movie is that you don’t have to know anything about the WWE to have a fun time. Content concerns are surprisingly minimal. The film’s PG-13 rating is appropriate: okay for teens, not suitable for children. 39

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FamilyCalendar Friday March 1

Dale Co. Saddle Club Horse Show 10:00 a.m. Dale Co. Ag Plex, Hwy 123 Ozark, AL, 36360 Free

Azalea Dogwood Festival: Tea & Tiaras $20 each or $15 each for 2 or more girls in the same family

City Spring Clean Up 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville, AL(334) 598-6331

First Saturday Family Day (info@wiregrassmuseum.org) 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Wiregass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Free (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Monday March 4

PCB Mardi Gras & Music Festival 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Pier Park, 600 Pier Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL, 32413www.visitpanamacitybeach.com

Zonta Inaugural Poker Run 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Harley Davidson of Dothan, 2418 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, AL, 36301 $25 (850) 685-7733

Ozark Boys & Girls Club Mardi Gras Parade 4:00 p.m. Boys & Girls Club of Ozark, 195 Martin Luther King Jr. Ave. Ozark, AL, 36360(334) 445-0512 www.bgcseal.com

PCB Mardi Gras & Music Festival 12:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Pier Park, 600 Pier Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL, 32413www.visitpanamacitybeach.com

Foster Fest 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Downtown, Dothan, AL Free

Krewe of Kolosse Mardi Gras Parade 2:00 p.m. Downtown, Dothan, ALkreweofkolosse. com

Art of Yoga (info@wiregrassmusem.org) 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 $10 (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Harbor Lights

6:30 p.m. 9:15 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 $36.70 -

$40.37 (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com

Smoke on the Mountain: The Musical (spanish-

trailplayhouse@gmail.com)

7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Spanish Trail Playhouse, 680 2nd Street Chipley, FL, 32428 $18 Adults; $15 Seniors (65+) & Military (with ID); $12 Students (850) 638-9113 www.spanishtrailplayhouse.com PCA Rodeo 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Covington Arena, 24000 Hwy 55 Andalusia, AL, 36420 Swamp Gravy: Fourth & Long 7:30 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 $22 (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com

Saturday March 2

Community Playground Build 8:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Doug Tew Recreation Center, 300 Garland St. Dothan, AL, 36301(334) 615-3700 Awaken: A Ladies Event (secretary@dalebaptistas-

sociation.com)

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., The Red Barn, 2424 C.R. 112 Napier Field, AL, 36303(334) 774-2713 www. dalebaptistassociation.com Dothan Community One Walk (jbentley@jdrf.org) 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Westgate Park, 501 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303(205) 421-9967 walk. jdrf.org/Dothan St. Mary’s Mardi Gras 5K Run/Walk for Rice and Beans (stmarysandalusia@centurylink.net) 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, 1307 E. Three Notch St. Andalusia, AL, 36420 5K $25; Fun Run $10; Additional Meal Ticket $5 (334) 222-2487 www.stmarysandalusia.org Swamp Cookout 2019 (secretary@dalebaptistassociation.com)

9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., John Hutto Park, Newton, AL(334) 774-2713 www.dalebaptistassociation.com #1 Stunnas’ St. Jude Charity Ride (skullmunki@

gmail.com)

9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Johnny Henderson Family Park, 1901 Neal Metcalf Rd. Enterprise, AL, 36330 $15 Riders, $10 Passengers

Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

Swamp Gravy: Fourth & Long 2:00 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 $22 (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com Town of Ashford Pageant (ashfordqueens@gmail.com) 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Ashford High School, 607 Church St. Ashford, AL, 36312 Swamp Gravy: Fourth & Long 6:00 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 $22 (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com Harbor Lights 6:30 p.m. - 9:15 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 $36.70 - $40.37 (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com Tales of the Cocktail 6:30 p.m. Enterprise Country Club, 300 Ozark Hwy Enterprise, AL, 36330 $30 Bulls, Bands and Barrels 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Adults $25 Advance/$30 Day of; Kids (12 & under) $12; Dirt Floor Seats $35 www.bigtickets.com Smoke on the Mountain: The Musical (spanish-

trailplayhouse@gmail.com)

Sunday March 3

Smoke on the Mountain: The Musical (spanish-

trailplayhouse@gmail.com)

2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Spanish Trail Playhouse, 680 2nd Street Chipley, FL, 32428 $18 Adults; $15 Seniors (65+) & Military (with ID); $12 Students (850) 638-9113 www.spanishtrailplayhouse.com Reptile Feeding 4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 $4 Adults, $3 Kids (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

7th Annual Glitz, Glam, & Gowns (bighouse@ ourbighouse.org)

4:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Southside Baptist Church, 423 E. Cottonwood Rd. Dothan, AL, 36301334-363-2634 Lego Club!

(headlandlibrary@ gmail.com)

www.headlandlibrary.org

5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Headland Public Library, 17 Park St. Headland, AL, 36345 Free (334) 693-2706

Tuesday March 5

Move, Groove, Read! Baby Lapsit 11:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Free (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Mystery @ Main 1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. Library-Main Branch, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303(334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org Slime Lab 3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryWestgate Branch, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303(334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org Lego Club for Kids 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Free (334) 774-5480 Shrove Tuesday Pancake Supper 5:30 p.m. 205 Holly Lane Dothan, AL, 36301 $5 Adults, $3 Children 10 & Under (334) 793-7616 THT Book Club 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., The Herbal Toad, 120 N. Court Square Ozark, AL, 36360 Free (334) 714-9503

Thursday March 7

Lego Builders Club (dalevillepubliclibrary@troycable. net)

3:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell St. Daleville, AL, 36322 Free (334) 503-9119 Makedo! Cardboard Construction 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. Library - Main Branch, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Free (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org Youth Write Night (info@wiregrassmuseum.org) 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Free (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org Henry Co. Turkey Banquet (ray.marler@agi.alabama.

gov)

6:00 p.m. Kelly Creek Nursery, 10551 S. County Rd. 59 Midland City, AL, 36350 Couple $75; Single $50; Jakes $20 (334) 791-3298

Pajama Story Time 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Free (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

www.wiregrassparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Harbor Lights 6:30 p.m. - 9:15 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 $36.70 - $40.37 (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com Southeastern Youth Conference: Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Our Turn 7:00 p.m. 1055 E. McKinnon St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Free (334) 764-2447

Friday March 8

River Town Days 3:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Earle May Boat Basin, Bainbridge, GA Free (229) 246-4774 Ashford Spring Fling (ashfordareachamber@gmail.com) 5:00 p.m. The Depot, Ashford, AL Harbor Lights 6:30 p.m. - 9:15 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 $36.70 - $40.37 (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com Swamp Gravy: Fourth & Long 7:30 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 $22 (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com

Novosel St. Bldg 113 Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362(334) 2552296 rucker.armymwr.com Wiregrass Equine Extravaganza 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Southern Cross Ranch, 6215 S. County Rd. 55 Headland, AL, 36345 Free Kolomoki Mounds Volunteer Day 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA, 39823(229) 724-2150 River Town Days 10:00 a.m. - 10:00 p.m., Earle May Boat Basin, Bainbridge, GA Free (229) 246-4774 Crawfish Classic 11:00 a.m. Enterprise Country Club, 300 Ozark Hwy Enterprise, AL, 36330 $500 Team; Crawfish Boil Only - $35 (334) 494-4575 JonJam 12:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., The Plant, 308 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 $20-$30 (334) 699-7727 Popcorn and a Movie 12:45 p.m. - 2:30 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360

Saturday March 9

Spring Outdoor Yard Sale 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Festival Fields, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362(334) 255-1749 rucker.armymwr.com Fort Rucker Recycled Boat Regatta 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Fitness Center Indoor Pool,

Free (334) 774-5480

Dale County Relay for Life Pageant 2:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Flowers Center for the Performing Arts, 312 E. College St. Ozark, AL, 36360(334) 774-2545 Swamp Gravy: Fourth & Long 2:00 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 $22 (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com 32nd Annual International Food Festival 2019

(angie.zonta@gmail.com)

6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Adults $30; Children $10; Under 4 Free; VIP Table of 8 $300; Reserved Table of 6 $200 www.zonta.org Kaleidoscope: A Celebration of Youth Art Opening Reception 6:00 p.m. Rudd Art Center, 144 E. Broad St. Ozark, AL, 36360(334) 445-6526 www.ruddartcenter.org Swamp Gravy: Fourth & Long 6:00 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 $22 (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com Harbor Lights 6:30 p.m. - 9:15 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 $36.70 - $40.37 (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com

Sunday March 10

River Town Days 12:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Earle May Boat Basin, Bainbridge, GA Free (229) 246-4774

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The Depot Informational Meeting 2:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330(334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com

Jr. Ranger Day Camp 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA, 39823 $25 (229) 724-2150

Half Pint 0.5K 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., E. College St. & S. Edwards St., Enterprise, AL, 36330 Early Bird Registration $15; Race Day Registration $25

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Newcomers Welcome 9:00 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., The Landing, 113 Novosel St. Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Free (334) 255-3161 rucker.armymwr.com

World’s Smallest St. Patrick’s Day Parade 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m., Downtown, Enterprise, AL, 36330

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Monday March 11

Family Fun Fest 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Culpepper Park, Hwy 85 Daleville, AL, 36322 $6

Primitive Fire Demonstration 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, AL, 39823 $5 Park Pass (229) 724-2150

Boots & Boots Rodeo 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., CT Arena, 5500 Spooner Rd. Iron City, GA, 39859 Adults $10 Advance, $12 at the Gate; Kids $5; 5 & Under Free

Swamp Gravy: Fourth & Long 2:00 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 $22 (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com Family Fun Fest 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Culpepper Park, Hwy 85 Daleville, AL, 36322 $6

SEACT’s Chicago

Harbor Lights 6:30 p.m. - 9:15 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 $36.70 - $40.37 (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com

7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Dothan Opera House, 115 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL,

SEACT’s Chicago (seact@seact.com) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Dothan Opera House, 115 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 $25 Adult; $23 Senior (334) 794-0400 www.seact.com

For King & Country 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Reserved Upper Balcony $21; Reserved Lower Balcony $29; Reserved Risers $30; Reserved Floor $45; VIP $72 (334) 615-3175 dothanciviccenter.org

Tuesday March 12

Family Fun Fest 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Culpepper Park, Hwy 85 Daleville, AL, 36322 $6

(seact@seact.com)

36303 $25 Adult; $23 Senior (334) 794-0400 www.seact.com

Wednesday March 13

Friends of Dothan Houston Co. Public Library Literary Luncheon (friends@dhcls.org) 11:30 a.m. Dothan Country Club, 200 S. Cherokee Ave. Dothan, AL, 36301 $20 (334) 791-2106 Family Fun Fest 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Culpepper Park, Hwy 85 Daleville, AL, 36322 $6 SEACT’s Chicago (seact@seact.com) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Dothan Opera House, 115 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 $25 Adult; $23 Senior (334) 794-0400 www.seact.com

Thursday March 14

Tail Waggin’ Tutors 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryWestgate Branch, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303(334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Swamp Gravy: Fourth & Long 7:30 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 $22 (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com

Saturday March 16

Eufaula City-Wide Garage Sale 7:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Eufaula Community Center, 747 Lake Dr. Eufaula, AL(334) 687-1246 Leadership Barbour Color Run 8:00 a.m. 333 E. Broad St. Eufaula, AL Solo $35; Family $75 (334) 687-6664 www.eufaulachamber.com Down Home Street Festival (chamber@wfeca.net) 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Bonifay, FL, 32425 Free (850) 547-6155 www.downhomestreetfestival.com Gem and Mineral Show 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Houston Co. Farm Center, 1701 E. Cottonwood Rd. Dothan, AL, 36301 Free (334) 673-3554 www.wiregrassrockhounds.com Shamrock Shuffle 5K & 10K 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Fort Rucker Physical Fitness Center, Andrews Ave. Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 $25 before March 10; $30 after March 10; $15 Run Only (334) 255-

Family Fun Fest 5:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Culpepper Park, Hwy 85 Daleville, AL, 36322 $6 Harbor Lights 6:30 p.m. - 9:15 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 $36.70 - $40.37 (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com

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SEACT’s Chicago (seact@seact.com) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Dothan Opera House, 115 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 $25 Adult; $23 Senior (334) 794-0400 www.seact.com

Southeast Alabama Highland Games 9:00 a.m. National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Ages 10 & Up $10; 10 & under Free www.WiregrassHighlandGames.com

Friday March 15

Dothan Miracle League Opening Ceremonies 9:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Dothan Miracle League Field, Dothan, AL, 36303

Egg Quest 7:00 a.m. Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, 5130 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Free www.dabg.com

Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

EJWC Color Run 9:30 a.m. Boll Weevil Monument, Downtown Enterprise, AL, 36330 Fun Run $20; 5K $25

Boots & Boots Rodeo 5:30 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., CT Arena, 5500 Spooner Rd. Iron City, GA, 39859 Adults $10 Advance, $12 at the Gate; Kids $5; 5 & Under Free

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Geneva Co. Father-Daughter Dance 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., The Vintage Room, 512 S. Commerce St. Geneva, AL, 36340 $15 Adult, $10 Child

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Swamp Gravy: Fourth & Long 6:00 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 $22 (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com

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Harbor Lights 6:30 p.m. - 9:15 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 $36.70 - $40.37 (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com

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SEACT’s Chicago (seact@seact.com) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Dothan Opera House, 115 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 $25 Adult; $23 Senior (334) 794-0400 www.seact.com Three on a String 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Flowers Center for the Performing Arts, 312 E. College St. Ozark, AL, 36360 $15 www.ozarkalabama.org John Crist 7:30 p.m. - 10:30 p.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 $25-$150 (334) 615-3175 dothanciviccenter.org

Sunday March 17

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Gem and Mineral Show 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Houston Co. Farm Center, 1701 E. Cottonwood Rd. Dothan, AL, 36301 Free (334) 673-3554 www.wiregrassrockhounds.com St. Patrick’s Party 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Mother Rucker’s, 319 RUF Ave. Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362(334) 255-3916

Tuesday March 19

Move, Groove, Read! Baby Lapsit 11:15 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Free (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

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Book Club 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 (334) 774-5480

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FamilyCalendar

FamilyCalendar Lego Club for Kids 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Free (334) 774-5480

Musicians Unite for Those Who Fight 9:00 a.m. - 11:45 p.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 $15 per day; $25 for 2 days; 12 & Under Free (706) 617-8744

Adult Book Club 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Free (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

Peanut Proud Festival 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m., Court Square, Blakely, GA, 39823 Free (229) 724-7322 www.peanutproudfestival.com

Bingo Night 7:00 p.m. Blakely Town & Country Club, 120 Yank Lane Blakely, GA, 39823 $20 Ticket

Wednesday March 20

Slime Lab 3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. Library-Main Branch, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303(334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Thursday March 21

HIPPY Group Meeting 9:30 a.m. Wiregrass Boys & Girls Club, 457 S. Alice St. Dothan, AL, 36301(334) 792-6255 Lego Builders Club (dalevillepubliclibrary@troycable. net)

3:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell St. Daleville, AL, 36322 Free (334) 503-9119 Lego Club 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryWestgate Branch, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303(334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org Teen Book Club 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Free (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Screen on the Green (info@wiregrassmuseum.org) 7:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Free (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org Peter Pan and Friends on Ice Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303(334) 615-3175 dothanciviccenter. org

Friday March 22

Musicians Unite for Those Who Fight 5:00 p.m. - 11:45 p.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 $15 per day; $25 for 2 days; 12 & Under Free (706) 617-8744

www.visitpanamacitybeach.com

UNwineD 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Aaron Bessant Park, 600 S. Pier Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL, 32413 $10 (850) 233-5070

Swamp Gravy: Fourth & Long 7:30 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 $22 (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com

Saturday March 23

Free Rabbit Football Camp 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., P.A.S.S. Academy, 201 E. Wilson St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Free

Landmark Park Spring Break Activities 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Adults $4; Kids $3; Children 2 & Under Free (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Patti Rutland Jazz Presents MOVE 7:00 p.m. Dothan Opera House, 115 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Advance Tickets: $20 General Public, $15 Students; Day of Show: $25 General Public, $20 Students (877) 775-5678 www.pattirutlandjazz.com

Friday March 29

DABG Spring Plant Sale 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, 5130 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303(334) 793-3224 www.dabg.com Landmark Park Spring Break Activities 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Adults $4; Kids $3; Children 2 & Under Free (334) 794-3452 landmarkparkdothan.com

Touch-A-Truck 11:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Earle May Boat Basin, 100 Boat Basin Circle Bainbridge, GA, 39819 UNwineD (info@visitpanamacitybeach.com) 1:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Aaron Bessant Park, 600 S. Pier Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL, 32413 $10 (850) 233-5070 www.visitpanamacitybeach.com Sketching at the Library 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Free (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

Curriculum and Book Sale 10:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m, Enterprise Public Library, 101 E. Grubbs St. Enterprise, AL, 36330(334) 447-9230

Swamp Gravy: Fourth & Long 2:00 p.m. & 6 pm Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 $22 (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com

Monday March 25

Holi Festival of Colors 3:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., HOLI Indian Cuisine, 2855 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, AL, 36301(334) 792-4654

Child - $5 online, $10 at the Door

Lewis & Clark Circus 100 Armory Dr. Abbeville, AL, 36310 Adult $12 online, $15 at the Door;

Tuesday March 26

Landmark Park Spring Break Activities 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Adults $4; Kids $3; Children 2 & Under Free (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com Ozobots 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryWestgate Branch, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303(334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Wednesday March 27

Landmark Park Spring Break Activities 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Adults $4; Kids $3; Children 2 & Under Free (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Thursday March 28

Landmark Park Spring Break Activities 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Adults $4; Kids $3; Children 2 & Under Free (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com DABG Spring Plant Sale Preview Party 5:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, 5130 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 $25 Non-Members, $15 Members (334) 793-3224 www.dabg.com

Saturday March 30

DABG Spring Plant Sale 8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, 5130 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303(334) 793-3224 www.dabg.com 9th Annual Marvel of Flight 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., DeFuniak Springs Airport, 1931 US Hwy 90 West DeFuniak Springs, FL, 32433www.marvelofflight.com The Samson Garden Club Annual Spring Fling (robinmoye@yahoo.com)

9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Samson Municipal Complex, 10470 Hwy 52 West Samson, AL, 36477

Spring Fling 12:00 p.m. Houston Co. Farm Center, 1701 E. Cottonwood Rd. Dothan, AL, 36301 $10; Kids 12 & Under Free (334) 828-5127 A Night of Fashion 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Fairytale Chateau, 1047 S. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36301 $15 Early Bird; $18 at the Door; $25 VIP Gospel Lip & Body Sync Battle Competition 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Patterson St. Baptist Church, 406 Patterson St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Contestants $20; Tickets $5 Advance, $10 at the Door (334) 596-6101 Patti Rutland Jazz Presents MOVE 7:00 p.m. Dothan Opera House, 115 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Advance Tickets: $20 General Public, $15 Students; Day of Show: $25 General Public, $20 Students (877) 775-5678 www.pattirutlandjazz.com

Sunday March 31

Adult Skate 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Fun Zone Skate Center, 465 Westgate Pkwy Dothan, AL, 36303 $10 admission; $2 standard skate rental; $3 speed/inline rental (334) 678-7529 www.funzoneskatecenterdothan.com

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

FamilyCalendar Every Sunday

Chess Club 2:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryMain Branch, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Free (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org BMX Beginner Instruction 2:00 p.m. Circle City BMX, Westgate Memorial Park Dothan, AL, 3603 Free (334) 714-0212 Scrabble Club 2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryWestgate Branch, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Free (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org

Every Tuesay

GP Quilters 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Grace Place Church, 5730 Shellfield Rd. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Free (334) 347-5214 www.mygpchurch.com Story & Craft Time @ Main 10:15 a.m. - 10:45 a.m., Dothan Houston Co. Library-Main Branch, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Free (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org Toddler Tales 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Lucy Hilton Maddox Memorial Library, 11880 Columbia St. Blakely, GA, 39823 Free

Every Wednesday

Story & Craft Time @ Westgate 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryWestgate Branch, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Free (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org Short Story Reading Group 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryWestgate Branch, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org

Every Thursday

Story Time Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Free

Every Friday

Far Out Friday 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Lucy Hilton Maddox Memorial Library, 11880 Columbia St. Blakely, GA, 39823 Free Story Time 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Free (334) 255-0891 rucker.armymwr.com

Every Saturday

Pokemon League 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Free (334) 774-5480 www.odcpl.com

Every Saturday & Sunday

Planetarium Shows: Seasonal Stars & Stories 1:00 p.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 $3 (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday

Planetarium Shows: Full Dome Movies Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 $3 (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Classes Art

Adult Watercolor Classes 10:30 a.m.-noon Wednesdays through May 20. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews Street, Dothan. Learn expanded drawing, watercolor and mixed media in this class for all ages and abilities. $40 per month regardless of attendance. All supplies provided. For more info or to register, call (334) 699-2787 or visit theculturalartscenter.org. Art Club 10:30 a.m.-noon. first and last Saturdays of the month at Ozark-Dale Co. Library, 416 James St., Ozark. From sketching to painting with watercolors, join us to learn new skills and practice perfecting your old ones. Recommended ages are 5 and up. Supplies are provided and classes are free. For more info, call (334) 774-5480 or visit www.odcpl.com. Artist Escape @ Rudd Art Center (Ozark) 11 a.m.-2 p.m. come-and-go on Wednesdays. Ann Rudd Art Center, 144 E. Broad Street, Ozark. No cost and all skills are welcome. We paint draw, cut and paste, share ideas, stories and artsy odds and ends. For more info, call (334) 445-6526 or visit www.ruddartcenter.org/. Arts & Crafts Weekly Classes Ft. Rucker Arts & Crafts Center offers a variety of classes for all ages. For more info, call (334) 255-9020 or visit https://rucker.armymwr.com/programs/artscrafts-center. • Woodshop Safety: Saturdays, 9-10 a.m. $5 fee per person. • Stained Glass: Tuesdays & Thursdays, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $40 fee per person. • Double Stained Glass: Wednesdays & Saturdays, 10 a.m.-noon. $40 fee per person • Children’s Painting: Every other Saturday, 1-3 p.m. $20 fee per child/Additional $10 for parents. • Adult Painting: Every other Friday, 6-8 p.m. $30 fee per person. *Classes must be paid for before class starts.* Cookies and Canvas 1-2:30 p.m. 2nd Saturdays. All About Art, 100 South Main Street, Enterprise. For kids, teens and parents. Class is designed to be a family experience for parents and children; however, kids 10-17 may be signed up to participate independently. Refreshments served as a part of the creative experience. $20 per 11x14 canvas; $30 per 16x20 canvas. Sign up in store, at www. allaboutartstudio.com or by calling (334) 348-2738 and paying over the phone. Cultural Arts Center Visual Art Classes for Children 909 S. St. Andrews Street, Dothan. Art classes for ages K through 6th grade will be held in the Messy Space building at the Cultural Arts Center and include drawing, painting, pottery, collage and printmaking. Registration is open online at www.theculturalartscenter.org or in person at the box office of the Cultural Arts Center. For more info, call (334) 699-2787. Mixed Media Workshop 1:30-3:30 p.m. March 30. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue, Dothan. Students will create an original work on canvas with a design of their choosing using GOLDEN paints and a variety of paper materials. All ages, but students 16 and below must have an adult present. Cost: $45 members; $55 non-members. Call (334) 794-3871 or register at www.wiregrassmuseum. org.

Painted Scarf Workshop with Chris Cruz 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. March 30. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue, Dothan. Students use fabric dye and a variety of materials to paint and create different textures on scarves. Everyone will take home two completed scarves. All supplies and materials are provided for this workshop. Cost: $45 members; $55 non-members. Call (334) 794-3871 or register at www. wiregrassmuseum.org. Preschool Art Class 3:30 p.m. Thursdays. Tispy Easel, 102 S. Cherokee Avenue, Suites 2 & 3, Dothan. Fun activities for children ages 2-6. We provide all supplies needed. Cost: $15. One adult is required to stay with each child when attending this class. For more info, call or text (334) 714-7147. 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 refreshments 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. Water Color Painting Class 5:15-7:30 p.m. March 28. Dothan-Houston Co. Library Westgate Branch. Heidi Johnson is the instructor. Registration required. Adults 19 and older. Participants should bring a hairdryer. For more info, visit www.dhcls.org. “Wine” Down with Art (Canvas Painting Class) 7-9:30 p.m. Offered MOST Fridays and Saturdays at All About Art, 100 S. Main St., Enterprise. Step-by-step class for all experience levels. You must pay in advance to reserve your spot for the evening. We accept walk-ins as space is available. Must be 18 years or older. Cost: $30 per person. Bring your own beverages and refreshments and we provide everything else. For more info, call (334) 348-2738 or visit www.allaboutartstudio.com/. Youth Art Classes 4-5:30 p.m. March 12, 19 & 26. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue, Dothan. Ages 6+ 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. Pre-registration required by the first Saturday of the month. Cost: $35 members for the series; $45 non-members. Call (334) 794-3871 or register at www. wiregrassmuseum.org.

Bible Journaling

6 p.m. Wednesdays at Enterprise First United Methodist Church, 217 South Main Street, Enterprise. Ladies’ class led by Regena Lacey in the Gathering Room. Includes a short devotional centered on a specific scripture followed by an art project to creatively break down and reflect upon that scripture. Each participant receives her own sketch book within which to collect scripture art throughout the year. Participation fee is a ONE-TIME $10. Register online at EFUMC.com, through the church office at (334) 347-3467 or e-mail regenalacey@gmail. com.

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. Cost is $20 a month or $100 for fall session. Please visit www.theculturalartscenter. org for details.

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SupportGroups Computer & Technology

Dream Court Enterprise 3-5 p.m. Sundays through April 7. Donaldson Park tennis courts in Enterprise. Dream Court is an adaptive tennis program for children and adults! Our mission is to teach the lifetime sport of tennis and life skills to children and adults differently abled. Cost for the season is $50. Please contact us on Facebook, Instagram or e-mail at dreamcourtenterpriseal@gmail.com.

Free Basic Computer Classes 9-10 a.m. Saturdays at Ozark-Dale Co. Library. You’ll learn the basics of using your computer, the internet, e-mail, Microsoft Office and more! Registration not required. Free Tech Classes 2-3 p.m. Fridays 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. Tech Training 3:30-6:30 p.m. March 7 @ Westgate Branch Library. No appointments necessary! Sessions will be walk-in appointments for 30 minutes maximum. Tell us what you want to learn! Training includes everything from basic computer skills to Microsoft PowerPoint to Ebook training. For more info, visit www.dhcls.org or call (334) 793-9767.

Drama

Cooking

Federal Job Workshop 8 a.m.-2:15 p.m. March 13. Bldg. 5700, Rm. 284 Fort Rucker. Mystified by the federal hiring process...or frustrated by your repeated attempts to put together an effective and impactful USAJOBS.gov resume? Participants will receive a FREE copy of Kathryn Troutman’s “Jobseeker’s Guide” (7th Edition). Registration is required two days prior to the workshop. Open to authorized patrons only. For info, call (334)255-2594.

Lunch & Learn: Herbal Cooking Demonstration 11 a.m.-1 p.m. March 23. Dale County 4-H/Extension, 202 S Highway 123, Ste D, Ozark. Linda Franzo teaches kitchen and herb garden cooking classes at her restaurant, The Passionate Platter, in Slidell, La. Cooking demo and tasting $35. Call (334) 774-2329 to pre-register. Space is limited!

Dance

Ballroom Dance 6:30-7:30 p.m. Tuesdays at Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint 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.

Acting Workshop 4:30 p.m. March 5. Fort Rucker Center Library. Workshop for teens ages 12 and up will focus on team building and competing in a series of challenges. Fun and free event open to authorized patrons and EFMP friendly. For more info, call (334) 255-3885.

Financial Management

Gardening

Dale County Junior Master Gardeners 4-5 p.m. Thursdays. Ozark Dale County Library, 416 James St., Ozark. Learn all about plants and how to grow your own food with the Claybank Master Gardeners each Thursday through March 21. The curriculum is designed for kids ages 8 and up. For more info, call (334) 774-5480. Contact Cheryl at chlibrary@troycable. net to register.

Belly Dancing Class 6-7:30 p.m. March 26. Dothan-Houston Co. Library Westgate Branch. Join Yelda Ibram for this fun class. Registration opens March 5. For more info, visit www. dhcls.org

Home Horticulture Lunch and Learn Series Noon-1 p.m. March 14. Eufaula Carnegie Library, 217 N Eufaula Ave, Eufaula. Come join Extension Agents for a four-part lunch and learn series. March 14 subject is container and raised bed gardening. For more info, call (334) 687-2337 or e-mail eufaulacl@yahoo.com.

Creative Movement for Pre-K 3 & 4-Year-Olds 2-3 p.m. March 4 & 18. Designed to improve motor, listening and hand movement skills while learning some basic dance movements. Teacher Veronica Taylor. $25 fee. For more info or to register, call (334) 699-2787 or visit theculturalartscenter.org. Dance Classes 4:30-8 p.m. Tues/Thurs. Daleville Parks & Recreation. Instructor: Lora Bright of Daleville Dream Dancers. For more info, call Brook Beasley at (334) 598-3111.

Master Gardener Training Course 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Dale County Extension Office. Classes are taught by Auburn University and extension specialists, regional extension agents, and certified Master Gardeners. Subject matter includes: plant nutrition, plant id, turf grass, landscape management, landscape design, entomology, plant diseases, vegetable gardening, home fruit production, and more. Fifty hours of volunteer service is required to become a Certified Master Gardener. Cost of the course is $150. For more info, call (334) 774-2329.

Line Dancing 7-8 p.m. Tuesdays at Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St., Dothan. A great class for beginners who want to learn more. 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.

Wiregrass Master Gardeners Lunch and Learn Noon-1 p.m. March 5. Dothan Downtown Library, 445 North Oates Street. These free programs are open to the public and registration is not required. Participants are encouraged to bring a sack lunch as they learn about such topics as: creating the perfect lawn, vegetables, blueberries, landscape design, pest management, and much more. For more info, call (334) 774-2329 or visit https://mg.aces.edu/houston/.

Zumba 5:30-6:30 p.m. Mon/Wed/Fri. Daleville Parks & Recreation. Instructor: Dawn Short. For more info, call Brook Beasley at (334) 598-3111.

Girl Scouts

Zumba Fitness 9-10 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays & Fridays. Westgate Park in Dothan. Taught by Christina Kirkland. Fees are $5 per class or $50 unlimited. Don’t worry about the steps. Zumba is all about having fun while getting fit. For more info, call (334) 615-3760 or visit http://www. dothan.org/facilities/.

Community CPR Classes 5-8 p.m. Third Thursdays through October. Ozark Fire Station #3 Classroom, 100 Mixon School Rd., Ozark. Classes are American Heart Association Basic Life Support and meet all requirements for health care workers and teachers. Register at ofd@ozarkalabama.us. $35 includes class and certification; student manual is optional for $15.

Daleville Parks & Recreation. For more info, call Troop 9027 Leader Jennifer Leach at (334) 479-9735.

Health & Nutrition

Omni Fit Classes 8 a.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Ridgecrest Baptist Church, 1231 Fortner Street, Dothan. Classes are always free so come check one out and get fit! Children welcome. For more info, call (334) 792-9406 or visit www.rbcdothan.org/. Weight Watchers 5:30-6:30 p.m. Mondays. Dale Medical Center, 126 Hospital Ave, Ozark. Basement Floor, by the cafeteria. Class cost is $13. Enrollment fee is $35. For more info, call (334) 774-2601 or visit www.dalemedicalcenter.com.

DIY Home Decor Workshops

March 1 from 6-9 p.m. @ E.R. Porter’s Hardware: Registration deadline February 26. March 23 from 2-5 p.m. @ E.R. Porter’s Hardware: Registration deadline March 19. Join us for a Custom Stove Cover Workshop March 1 or a DIY Interchangeable Home Sign March 23! We will guide you through the process of making your own customized item for your home or office. You will select your design and add any customizations (if the design calls for it). You will also select your stain color, chalk paint color and painting/distressing techniques. *BYOBFeel free to bring your adult beverages. Rethunk Your Junk! Furniture Painting Class 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. March 2. Just Another Shop LLC, 101 E. Broad Street, Eufaula. Sign up in store for $29. Purchase your paint product. Bring a piece of furniture to the class. Go home with a beautifully transformed piece of furniture and the confidence to paint more! For more info, call (334) 232-4401 or e-mail justashop@ eufaula.rr.com.

Horseback Riding

Meredith Rosier Clinic 4 p.m. March 16-5 p.m. March 17. Clearmeadow Morgans and Riding Academy, 325 Gilley Mill Rd., Webb. A multi-discipline/all breed riding clinic. Cost for a private lesson Sunday is $40, for youth riders you have the option of a mini camp that includes an optional pizza party/sleepover. $100 for both days. Saturday will include a lesson with Karen Barber-Gardner. Please register at (716) 696-0869 or karenmbarber@hotmail.com if you’re using one of our lesson horses.

Magic

Linking Rings Club 5-6:30 p.m. Mondays. Titan Magic, 518 N. Daleville Ave., Daleville. Totally free. Ages 5 and up are welcome. Learn the ins and outs of magic, the history, how to do different types of magic and illusions. Meet other kids and share ideas. For more info, call (334) 494-5996 or visit www.titanmagic.net/.

Martial Arts

Taekwondo 6:30 p.m.-until. Mon/Wed. Daleville Parks & Recreation. Instructor: Mr. Parker. For more info, call Brook Beasley at (334) 598-3111. Taekwondo Classes 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays. Perry Recreation Center, 223-299 Community Dr, Ozark. For more info, call (334) 774-2523.

Music

Beginner Guitar Class 10 a.m. Saturdays. Hoobler Music Studio, 201 West College St, Enterprise. For 2nd-6th grades. $50 for class. We also have nice student guitars for sale. For more info, call (334) 390-1009 or e-mail royhoobler@yahoo.com.

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SupportGroups Ukulele Class 3:30-4:15 p.m. Wednesdays. Hoobler Music Studio, 201 West College St, Enterprise. For 3rd-8th grades. Learn the basics of ukulele and have fun with friends. $50 for class. Bring your own uke or buy one from us for $42. For more info, call (334) 390-1009 or e-mail royhoobler@yahoo.com.

Parenting

Active Parenting: The First Five Years 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. March 8, 15, 22 & 29. New Parent Support Program - Soldier Service Center Bldg. 5700, Rm. 371G Fort Rucker. A four-day training for parents of children from birth to age 5. Registration for this event is required and limited to 15 participants. Free childcare also available. For more info and to register, call (334) 255-3359 or (334) 255-9805. Raising Resilient Children in the Military Workshop 10-11 a.m. March 21. Soldier Service Center Building 5700, Suite 350 & Room 177 Fort Rucker. Free childcare with pre-registration is available by calling (334) 255-3564. For more info, call (334) 255-3359, (334) 255-9805 or (334) 255-3898.

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.

Sewing

Crochet Class 1-2 p.m. Saturdays. The Herbal Toad, 826 Andrews Ave, Ozark. Maximum class size is 10. Beginners, bring a worsted weight skein of yarn and a crochet hook size I. For those who know how to crochet, bring the project that you are working on to get help. $6 per person. For children 13 and under, call for special times. For more info, call (334) 714-9503 or visit https://theherbaltoad.com/. Knitting with Priscilla 5:30-7:30 p.m. Begins February 25. Dothan-Houston Co. Main Library Branch. Join us for a four-week course in learning the basics of knitting. At the end of the four weeks, the student will have learned the basics of knitting and completed a small project. For more info, visit www.dhcls.org/ or call (334) 793-9767. Needles and Pages Knitting Group 1:30-3 p.m. Wednesdays. McGregor - McKinney Public Library, 101 E Fulton St., Hartford. Knitting (or crochet) and laughter and learning! For more info, call (334) 588-2384 or e-mail librarydirector@ hartfordpubliclibrary.org. Quilts of Valor Workshops 9 a.m.-2 p.m. March 15. Fort Rucker Arts & Craft Center. Join us as we endeavor to piece together quilts under the instruction of experienced Quilts of Valor quilters. Finished quilts will be presented to Wounded Warriors, as a show of honor and comfort. Any skill level can participate. Free workshops open to the public, ages 16 and over. RSVP at least two days prior to workshop date. For more info or to register, call (334) 255-9020. Yarn It Darn It 5-6 p.m. 2nd and 4th Tuesdays. Fort Rucker Center Library. Grab your needles, yarn and thread as we create projects for every skill level from beginner to expert. This free event is open to authorized patrons ages 10+ and is EFMP friendly. Children ages 10-12 must be accompanied by an adult. For more info, call (334) 255-3885.

Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

Sign Language

American Sign Language Class Basic Level 5:30-7 p.m., Tuesdays through March 26. Alabama Institute for Deaf and Blind (AIDB) Dothan Regional Center, 111 Medical Drive, Dothan. Class fee $40. For more info, contact Cheryl at (334) 677-6270 or willis. cheryl@aidb.org. Wiggles and Giggles 10 a.m., first Thursdays and fourth Mondays at Enterprise Public Library, 101 E Grubbs St., Enterprise. FREE baby signing class. Come sing and sign! For more info, call (334) 347-2636 or e-mail director@ enterpriselibrary.org.

Swimming

Adult Swim Lessons 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. & 5:30-6:30 p.m. March 4-27. Novosel St. Bldg 112, Fort Rucker. Each session includes 8 classes held on Mondays & Wednesdays. Register at the Fort Rucker Physical Fitness Center Indoor Pool. Adult swim lessons are for age 18+ beginners and intermediate swimmers. Classes are taught by American Red Cross Water Safety Instructors. General public fee: $35 per participant; active duty military fee: $25. For more info, call (334) 255-2296. Aqua Zumba 9-10 a.m. Tuesdays & Thursdays at Fort Rucker Physical Fitness Center, Andrews Ave. Bldg. 4605. Low-impact, high-energy aquatic exercise. Participants do not need to know how to swim. Classes are open to authorized patrons only, ages 14 and up. For more info, call (334) 255-9162 or (334) 255-2672. Lifeguard Course 8 a.m.-5 p.m. March 25-30. Novosel St. Bldg 112, Fort Rucker. Open to patrons ages 15+ and costs $125 for Military/DoD ID card holders and $150 for general public. Register at the front desk of the Fort Rucker PFC. Candidates who take the training program through Fort Rucker SFA are also eligible for employment with Fort Rucker MWR! For more info, call the Physical Fitness Center at (334) 255-2096. Lifeguard Recertification Course 5-8 p.m. March 1, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. March 2 and 9 a.m.5 p.m. March 3. Novosel St. Bldg 112, Fort Rucker. Open to patrons ages 15+ and costs $125 for Military/DoD ID card holders and $150 for general public. Register at the front desk of the Fort Rucker PFC. Candidates who take the training program through Fort Rucker SFA are also eligible for employment with Fort Rucker MWR! For more info, call the Physical Fitness Center at (334) 255-2096.

Yoga

Art of Yoga 9-10 a.m. First Fridays. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Avenue, Dothan. 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). Cost: $10. For more info, call (334) 794-3871 or e-mail info@ wiregrassmuseum.org.

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 more info, call (334) 712-3336 or 1-800-7354998. 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.

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

Grace Group Noon, first Wednesdays. Living Waters Counseling, 2130 County Road 125, Headland. This support group offers encouragement for those who have experienced the death of a loved one. For more info, call (334) 693-3380 or visit www.lwcounseling.net/. Grief Goup 10 a.m. second and fourth Tuesdays. Living Waters Counseling, 2130 County Road 125, Headland. Grief Group is for those who have lost loved ones and need help moving on and learning to cope with their loss. For more info, call (334) 693-3380 or visit www. lwcounseling.net/. Life In the Blood Group 6 p.m. first Mondays. Living Waters Counseling, 2130 County Road 125, Headland. This grief support group offers hope for those who have lost a child. For more info, call (334) 693-3380 or visit www.lwcounseling. net/.

Illness Support

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

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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.

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SupportGroups 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 each month (except summers). Southeast Alabama Medical Center (SAMC) Doctors Building, 7th floor Conference Room. For more info, call (334) 793-8025.

welcome. For more info, call (334) 944-6523 or visit www.stcolumbacatholic.com/. Dothan Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPs) 9:30-11:30 a.m. mostly 1st and 3rd Tuesdays (March 5 & 19). Harvest Church, 2727 Fortner St., Dothan. For more info, call (334) 702-6555, x232 or e-mail bcoleman@harvestdothan.com

ALANON Dothan Hope Family Group 6:30 pm. 1st and 3rd Tuesdays. Covenant United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 3610 W. Main St., Dothan. This group is for family members and friends troubled by someone’s drinking. For more info, call (334) 798-1688.

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.

Dothan Patient & Family Support Volunteer Training 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, contact Donna at (850) 482-8520 or e-mail 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. 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 more 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.

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 First Friday Mother’s Group St. Columba Catholic Church, 2700 W. Main St., Dothan. On the first Friday of each month, moms and kids are invited to come to the 9 a.m. Mass. After Mass, moms and kids are invited to the gym for free story time and crafts for kids, and coffee and fellowship for moms. All moms and children are

Alcoholics Anonymous is a fellowship of men and women who share their experience, strength and hope with each other that they may solve their common problem and help others to recover from alcoholism. For more info on meetings near you on a day that works with your schedule, visit www. aadothan.org/ or call (334) 792-3422. ALANON Dothan Hope Family Group Noon Wednesdays. Covenant United Methodist Church Family Life Center, 3610 W. Main St., Dothan. This group is for family members and friends troubled by someone’s drinking. For more info, call (334) 798-1688.

Caring Hearts Meets quarterly on third 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.

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.

Recovery from Addiction

Fort Rucker’s Mom & Me: Dad Too 9:30-11 a.m. Mondays at The Commons in the Soldier Service Center Bldg. 5700, Rm. 371G. The FREE playgroup is for families with children ages birth to 16 months. For details, call New Parent Support Program at (334) 255-9647 or (334) 255-3359 or (334) 255-9805. Fort Rucker’s Tot Time 9:30-11 a.m. Wednesdays at The Commons in the Soldier Service Center Bldg. 5700, Rm. 371G. The FREE playgroup is for families with children ages 17-36 months. Registration and proof of immunization required. For details, call New Parent Support Program at (334) 255-9647 or (334) 255-3359 or (334) 255-9805. Mom Tribe Parents’ Night Out 6-9 p.m. First Fridays. First United Methodist ChurchEufaula, 101 E. Barbour St., Eufaula. Cost: $10 per child/$25 max per family. We would love to have your kiddos (6 months-12 years) while you have a date night, girls’ night, alone night, whatever! Dinner, snacks and fun included. Text Beth at (724) 272-7612 to reserve your spot! 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. We provide confidential care and attention through our trained staff. Our Pregnancy Center will serve you with kindness and compassion, provide you with accurate information and listen to your concerns. Programs and services include: pregnancy testing ultrasound (limited to 1st trimester); prenatal and parenting education programs; nutrition classes; childbirth classes; breastfeeding classes; newborn care; life skill classes; fatherhood program; pregnancy loss; abortion recovery care; and adoption referral. 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.

AA Meeting @ Ozark Dale Co. Public Library Noon-1 p.m. Wednesdays. 416 James Street, Ozark. Other meetings are Tuesdays at 7 p.m., and Fridays at noon in the West Wing of the Library. For more info, call Fred Gissendanner at (334) 445-2143. Celebrate Recovery 6 p.m. Thursdays. Covenant United Methodist Church Christian Life Center, 3610 W. Main St., Dothan. This is a free 12-step program for any hurt, hang-up or habit you or your family may be facing (anger management, divorce recovery, sexual abuse, alcoholism, drug addiction, pornography addiction). Snack supper at 5:45 p.m. Excellent childcare (for ages 12 and under) provided for children of parents attending program. For more info, call (334) 7934440 or e-mail info@covenantdothan.org. Celebrate Recovery 7 p.m. Fridays. Harvest Church, 2727 Fortner St., Dothan. Free program and all are welcome. For those with children, age-specific children’s program is available. For more info, call (334) 702-6555 or e-mail celebraterecovery@harvestdothan.com.

Special Needs

Autism Support Group For meeting location and time, call Fran Heisner at (334) 793-8714 or e-mail fcheisner@samc.org. Enterprise Autism Social Group Meets at Enterprise Public Library, 101 E Grubbs St., Enterprise. Parent groups meet March 5 at 10:30 a.m. and March 28 at 6 p.m. For more info, call (334) 477-4686 or e-mail sdipilla.bcba@gmail.com. F.R.I.E.N.D.S. Down Syndrome Support Group Meeting dates and locations vary from month to month, so please call Heather Adkins at (334) 7908292 or e-mail info.downsyndromefriends.com for more info. Wiregrass Visually Impaired Support Group 10 a.m.-noon, 2nd Thursdays. Alabama Institute for Deaf & Blind, Dothan Regional Center, 111 Medical Drive, Dothan. For more info, call Angela Stough at (334) 699-3985.

Post-Traumatic Stress (PTSD) PTSD Group 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 (334) 255-3903.

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

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

EG: Balancing three kids from split homes with multiple extracurricular activities and two very demanding jobs is a challenge to say the least! Luckily, we have great relationships and co-parent well. Above all, we spend as much time as we can with the kids, together and separately. It’s important that the kids receive one-on-one time with us, as well as time together. WP: Being the president of the Enterprise Chamber of Commerce, a wife, and mom to three kids keeps you busy. How do you avoid mom burnout?

Erin Grantham

EG: Very carefully! HA HA! I’m blessed. I have a very supportive husband. He definitely helps keep me from losing my mind. In addition to helping out with the kids, he is a great help around the house. Even more importantly, he recognizes when I need a break before I do. Apart from trying to sneak in dates with him, I also try to work in a few girls nights. I could use a few more of both!

WP: What’s something your family is looking forward to this summer?

WP: Do you do anything special to connect with each of your kids?

EG: The weather! Despite Alabama’s crazy humidity and blazing temperatures, we are huge fans of the sunshine! During the summer we get to spend more time together outside. Having children spread far out in age range makes family time a bit tricky sometimes. In the summer we are able to play in the yard while grilling, swimming, or hanging out at the beach.

EG: Just trying to spend time with them one-on-one. Each of them are very different from the other, and they’re always changing. Olivia is easy right now, because she thinks I’m the best thing happening! We do a lot of girly things together... dancing, painting our nails, etc. Chase and Dylan are teenagers and find me less appealing at the moment. With the boys we try to take them out for a few hours independently doing things they enjoy. Chase enjoys going to comic book stores and the movies. Dylan loves sports and spends a lot of time on the baseball field or in the yard with Michael.

WP: Do you have any summer traditions?

WG: What’s something, a skill or character trait, you hope you’re able to teach your children?

EG: As busy as both mine and my husband’s work schedules are, it’s hard to guarantee anything. However, we do try to plan a family vacation to the beach each summer.

EG: Empathy. I think it’s important to try to understand people, and their reactions. Also, honesty. Being people of their word is very important. Ultimately, we just want them to be good humans.

WP: What’s your favorite summer memory? EG: Summer is such a nostalgic time. As a kid it meant adventures with my younger brother and the neighborhood kids - playing in water hoses, climbing trees, staying up late. Our family beach vacations are my favorite adult summer memories. It’s a time when we are able to break away from the rest of the world and just enjoy each other.

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

WP: Do you have any plans to keep your kids engaged/active/ learning this summer?

EG: Relax. Breathe. Cry. Laugh. Do whatever you think YOU need to do for yourself and your family. Often times we get caught up in what the articles say, or what our friends think, or our own idea of what motherhood is supposed to be like. One thing I’ve learned is that we all need different things, and so do our kids. Love them, and love yourself!

EG: Trust your instincts. WP: Any advice for a new mom?

EG: That’s something we try to do every summer. We highly encourage reading and often give the boys tasks around the house. Additionally, I like to bring them to work with me when I can and give them “jobs” in between band, baseball, etc. Olivia will continue learning at school over the summer.

Erin Grantham is president of the Enterprise Chamber of Commerce. She is married to Michael Grantham. Together they have three children: Dylan (14), Chase (13), and Olivia (4).

WP: Is there something you and your husband do to help keep your family balanced? Wiregrass Parents I March 2019

www.wiregrassparents.com

THE ADVENTURES IN

Math & Science 2019 Summer Camp Sessions

HOSTED BY THE ALABAMA SCHOOL OF MATH AND SCIENCE MOBILE, AL

June 3-7, June 10-14, and June 17-21 | Grades 6-10 Register by April 1: $360 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $260 Day Camp (includes lunch) Register after April 1: $385 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $285 Day Camp (includes lunch) Cost to stay weekend between a session is an additional $185 (includes trip to water park)

Course Sampling

ACT Prep, Algebra Review, Exploring Inner Space, Marine Biology, CSI: Mobile, Phun Physics, Using Java, Robotics, Field Biology, Psychology, Math Puzzles, Labs of Doom, Rocketry, Origami, Speak Up, Light Metals and Enameling, Apps for Smart Devices, and many more. Applications, more information, and course descriptions are online at www.asms.net.

Deadline to register is May 1, 2019!

1255 DAUPHIN ST. • MOBILE, AL 36604 • 251.441.2100 • WWW.ASMS.NET • AIMS@ASMS.NET