Wiregrass Parents March 2020 by KeepSharing

I would rather be able to run the bases after my home run hit than have to stop to catch my breath by 2nd. - Josie, 7th grade

For more information visit AlabamaHealthyTeens.com

March2020 18

Volume 2 Number 7

Columns

From the Publisher Ashton Wright

Family Camping Trips Get the 4-1-1 on camp costs, activities, food and making the most of your getaway.

Common Sense Media Learn about five risky apps that might be on your child’s (or a friend’s) phone.

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Kids Health Watch

by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

21 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Life Lessons Learned at Overnight Camp Independence, resiliency and community living are just a few.

2020 Summer Camps

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

Departments 5

Teacher of the Month 9

On The Cover

School Bits

Katie Claire, 8, and Laura Beth, 3, are the daughters of Ben and Anna Whitehead. Katie Claire attends Rehobeth Elementary School. Her favorite subject is reading and she loves to dance and perform on stage. Laura Beth attends Rehobeth Academy. She likes to play with her friends, paint pictures, and play outside with her sister.

Family Calendar 36

Mom to Mom

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FromThePublisher The Area’s Go-To Resource for Families

I’ve always considered myself lucky when it comes to my family, especially when it comes to my PawPaw and Granny. They accepted me as their granddaughter when I was 3 years old. That’s when my mom married the man who became my dad. They’ve been a part of my life ever since. My PawPaw took his last breath on February 20. Even though he had battled several illnesses off and on for the last two decades, his passing was completely unexpected. He wasn’t sick at the time. He just closed his eyes in the middle of a conversation with my Granny and was gone. Peacefully. With no pain. But, of course, I’m selfish. Even though we had all just celebrated his 77th birthday two weeks earlier, none of us got to say a final goodbye. I’m not sure what life looks like without PawPaw in it. I’ll miss the way he would squeeze my hand and kiss it after saying the blessing. I’ll miss his stories and laugh. I’ll miss the way his eyes lit up any time he played with Alexis. I’ll never smell Old Spice or tobacco without thinking of him. Thanksgiving will never be the same. My heart is broken, but I’m so much better for having known him. Camping was a way of life for my family growing up. It didn’t matter what season it was; if we didn’t have school, we were probably loading up the camper and heading to Cotton Hill. We camped with family and family friends. We rode our bikes around the campground, rode in and behind each other’s boats until it felt like you were rocking even on dry land, and played hide-and-seek until it was too dark to see. I can’t imagine my childhood without those trips. If camping is something you’d like to explore with your family, I encourage you to check out our feature article, Family Camping: Make the Most of Your Getaway. It’s full of tips to make your trip one to remember. Have you thought about how your kids will be spending the summer yet? Our Summer Camp Guide can help with that. We’ve rounded up dozens of camps and programs all around our area to keep your kids involved all summer long. From educational to creative and athletic, there’s something there for everyone. And if you’re considering overnight camp, be sure to check out our feature, Life Lessons Learned at Overnight Camp. Spring officially arrives on March 8th (don’t forget to change those clocks!). This is my favorite time of year in the Wiregrass. Between St. Patrick’s Day, festivals, and Spring Break, March is shaping up to be a busy month. This month’s Family Calendar will help you navigate this first month of the season. Happy Spring, y’all!

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

Publisher Ashton Wright ashton@wiregrassparents.com (334) 714-7831 Editor DeAnne Watson editor@wiregrassparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Contributing Writers Kimberly Blaker Mark Gregston Meredith Hitch, MD Janeen Lewis Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dave Ramsey Cover Photography Jessica Sanford www.jsanfordart.com

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

Ashton

Visit us at www.wiregrassparents.com 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 2020 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.

ashton@wiregrassparents.com

Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

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THE ADVENTURES IN

ath & Science 2020 SUMMER CAMP SESSIONS HOSTED BY THE ALABAMA SCHOOL OF MATH AND SCIENCE • MOBILE, AL

JUNE 1-5, JUNE 8-12, AND JUNE 15-19 | GRADES 6-10 Register by March 1: $370 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $270 Day Camp (includes lunch) Register after March 1: $395 Overnight Camp (all inclusive), $295 Day Camp (includes lunch) Cost to stay the weekend between a session is an additional $195 (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.

Online application posted January 1, 2020 at www.asms.net. Limited spots available.

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1255 DAUPHIN ST. • MOBILE, AL 36604 • 251.441.2100 • WWW.ASMS.NET • AIMS@ASMS.NET 3 www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Tuesdays with Mommy At the top of the New York Times best seller list back in 2000 was a book called, Tuesdays With Morrie – an old man, a young man and life’s greatest lesson. The entire concept of the book was wrapped around author Mitch Albom’s relationship with his university professor Morrie Schwartz, who was in the final stages of dying from ALS. Morrie and Mitch discussed the power of friendship, forgiveness, loss, life, death and family, amongst some smaller, more trivial daily trials and triumphs. As my 17-year-old twins are preparing to launch into the world and head off to college in the fall, I took a cue from Morrie and at the start of their senior year I initiated, “Tuesdays with Mommy”. Every Tuesday you will find the three of us sharing a table at our neighborhood coffee shop at 7:30 in the morning. I drink coffee, they drink “coffee” – which as far as I can tell appears to be just blended sugar topped with whipped cream – and we argue over who gets the last portion of the lemon poppy seed muffin.

The café door opens and closes, neighbors come and go, and we make small talk with our favorite barista, but it is exactly there in those quiet, normal moments that we oftentimes find ourselves discussing issues or politics or strategies or what’s for dinner or whatever else is pressing. And that matters. There is value there. There is strength of relationship and resolve there. And I love it. My favorite day of the week: Tuesday. As a mom of many with a job that keeps me jumping, Tuesdays with Mommy forces me to pause. It makes me sit down, sip, lean in and hear their hearts. And yes, 17-year-old boys often actually do have a lot to say; it’s just that we need to be intentional in posturing ourselves in a position to listen, and sometimes, like Morrie – to teach. At times it occurs to me that I need to ensure that I have taught them how to write a check, or to remind them to get their tires rotated every other oil change, or the importance of standing up at the

table on a date when she stands up. Other times the table talk centers around childhood memories; sometimes their memories and sometimes mine. Every now and then Tuesdays with Mommy is consumed with them scrambling to finish some homework while I just sit by and remind myself how grateful I am to already be done with the 12th grade. Sometimes we miss a day and sometimes it is just silent. I don’t think there is a “right” way to have your Tuesday. But whether you find your Tuesday at a coffee shop, or you find it on Pizza Fridays or Saturday Morning Waffles, my encouragement to you is to just find it. Find a time where you can be still and hear the heart of your kid. You will find that it makes all the difference.

Sonia is a licensed social worker and holds both a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Social Work. Her clinical focus is on helping parents and professionals understand the role of the brain in behavior and how to adopt therapeutic parenting techniques to mitigate negative behaviors. She is the Director of Central Alabama for Lifeline Children’s Services and is a mother to 7 sons, 3 of which were internationally adopted and she is a foster parent.

NEW INSTALLATIONS IN THE CADDELL SCULPTURE GARDEN

Beginning March 20, 2020

Come see new works inspired by and created from nature in our outdoor sculpture garden by North Carolina artist Patrick Dougherty and Alabama artist Jamey Grimes. Preview the works at mmfa.org Patrick Dougherty (American, born 1945), Ready or Not, 2013, mixed media, installed at the North Carolina Zoo, Asheboro, NC. Photograph by Juan Villa

One Museum Drive, Montgomery, AL Open Tuesday–Sunday; Free Admission mmfa.org | @MontgomeryMFA

Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

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Anna Short Rehobeth Elementary

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Kaycey Williams says Rehobeth Elementary School teacher Anna Short goes above and beyond for her students. Williams says Short helped her daughter gain confidence with reading. “Mrs. Short has helped Jayden gain confidence with reading. She has struggled with it and now loves to read books and loves school. She treats her like she is her own child and loves and cares about her!” The daughter of a teacher, Short says she always knew she wanted to follow in her mother’s footsteps. “My mother made a huge impact on my life.” Short began teaching in Lee County in 2006. She moved back home to Dothan in 2007 and began teaching at Rehobeth Elementary. She says her main motivation is seeing each child grow and the improvements made throughout the year. “The most rewarding thing about being a teacher is seeing how much my students improve by the end of each year, and knowing I made an impact on helping them become better learners.” In return, Short says her students have taught her to be more understanding and flexible. That’s a lesson she says all new teachers should take to heart.

“Teachers must adapt and change their plans and teaching styles constantly in order to meet the needs of each child in their classroom.” Short says it is a huge honor to be nominated or even recognized by one of her student’s parents for this award. “Being nominated motivates me even more to become a better teacher. I appreciate all the parental involvement that parents show in order to help improve their child’s success.” Short has several favorite teaching moments, but one that really stands out in her mind and had an impact on her life is a lesson in which her class learned how to compare and contrast. “Two students stood at the front of the classroom. One was a Caucasian girl, and one was a Hispanic boy. In the many similarities and many differences that the students recognized, one thing that was never pointed out was the difference in their skin color,” Short said. “This touched me as an adult and teacher... that children look past what is seen on the outside, and they focus more on what’s in each other’s hearts.” Anna Short graduated from Dothan High School in 2002. She received her B.S. and Master’s Degrees in Collaborative Education from Auburn University. She and her husband, Nicholas, have two children, twins Carter and Caroline (6).

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Youth Art Month Opening Reception

Mamma Mia!

Tuesday, March 3 * 5-7 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, Dothan www.wiregrassmuseum.org (334) 794-3871 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 middle and high school students. The public is invited to the March 3 opening reception, which will include the announcement of several merit awards, such as the 2nd Congressional Art Competition, open to 11th- and 12th-graders living in the 2nd Congressional District of Alabama. The reception is free and open to the public. General admission to WMA is always free. The Youth Art Month Exhibition at WMA will be open through March 28.

March 10-22 7-9:30 p.m. nightly Dothan Opera House, 115 N. Saint Andrews St. Tickets: $25 each Visit www.seact.com. ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. This sunny and funny tale unfolds on a Greek island paradise. On the eve of her wedding, a daughter’s quest to discover the identity of her father brings three men from her mother’s past back to the island they last visited 20 years ago. The story-telling magic of ABBA’s timeless songs propels this enchanting tale of love, laughter and friendship. A mother. A daughter. Three possible dads. And a trip down the aisle you’ll never forget! Recommended for ages 12+. Included with season tickets. Directed by Chris Manasco.

Southern Broadway Presents A Pirate’s Catch

March 12-14, 19-21, 26-28 Doors Open at 6 p.m. Nightly Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, Enterprise In the year 1712 Queen Ann decided to take the Golden Hind ship out of ”dry dock” retirement and commission it to be chartered as a touring vessel for the wealthy folk of England. William Smythe was selected as captain and tour guide of the legendary vessel. After the passengers enjoy a fanciful feast on the deck of the docked ship, Smythe’s job is to take the upper crust of London for a landlubbers’ cruise to the mouth of the Thames and back, and although he thinks it a pantywaist tour, he is happy to accept the coveted task of manning the helm of the famous Hind. Get ready to board for the adventure of a lifetime! Ye never know what lurks in wait on the River Thames for the Golden Hind! For tickets or more info, visit www. southernbroadway.com or call (334) 470-6568.

Spring Farm Day

Saturday, March 21 * 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Landmark Park, Dothan Cost: $8 adults, $6 seniors/military, $4 kids (3-12), free for members www.landmarkparkdothan.com Turn back the clock over 100 years and experience living history demonstrations of blacksmithing, plowing with mules, quilting and other traditional springtime farm activities. Entertainment will include traditional music. Food will be available for sale from food vendors. Martin Drugstore will be open with ice cream and drinks. You can bring a picnic. No alcohol allowed.

Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris

Saturday, March 28 * 9 a.m.-Noon Westgate Park, Dothan The Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris is a FREE family-friendly walk/run raising awareness of diabetes, connecting the diabetes community, and offering an opportunity for kids to attend Camp Seale Harris - Alabama’s only diabetes camp. Join us at the Kiwanis Shelter at Westgate Park (located at the corner of Deerpath Rd. and Whatley Dr.) for music, free healthy snacks, diabetes awareness info, team awards and prizes, and a 5K or 1 Mile walk/run to support kids with diabetes! You can choose to donate now or create a fundraising page for the Diabetes Walk for Camp Seale Harris and invite friends, family, and co-workers to join your effort by donating to your walk page. To create a fundraising page, visit campsealeharris.org/diabeteswalk. Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

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Youth Art Class Series

March 10, 17 & 24 * 4-5:30 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, Dothan Students will learn about a new work of art each week by discussing the artist and how it was created, as well as sharing thoughts on the work in a sketchbook made by each student. After learning about the artwork, students will have the opportunity to create their own unique work of art using the same process as the artist. Pre-registration is required by the first Saturday of the month. Ages 6+. For more info, call (334) 794-3871 or visit www.wiregrassmuseum.org.

Spring Break Events @ Landmark Park

March 23-27 * 10 a.m. Daily Admission: $4 Adults, $3 Kids, Members Free 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan www.landmarkparkdothan.com March 23: Nature Hike - Listen for bird songs, look for fish and turtles and check out what’s blooming this spring. The boardwalk is handicap accessible. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes. March 24: 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. March 25: Hand Sewing 101 - Have you ever wanted to learn how to sew on a button or mend a tear? Join us for a class on hand sewing. All ages welcome and no experience required. Due to space constraints, registration is required and seating is limited. March 26: Irish Dance Class - Dance a jig with instructor Kim Mullenix, founder of Dothan Irish Dancers. Learn the steps and dance the day away! Wear comfortable shoes. March 27: Old-Fashioned Fun and Games - 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!

Screen on the Green: The Princess and the Frog (Rated G)

Friday, March 13 * 7:30-9:30 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, Dothan www.wiregrassmuseum.org or (334) 794-3871 Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets to cozy up with a date, make it a family night, or enjoy some well-deserved alone time under the stars. Purchase snacks and dinner served by local food trucks and vendors, and enjoy FREE popcorn by WMA! Galleries open at 6 p.m. so visitors can take in current exhibitions before the movie starts at 7:30 p.m. Admission to the museum and Screen on the Green is always free. In case of inclement weather, movies will be shown in WMA’s Great Hall.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Gut Feelings: Kids and Belly Pain As a Pediatric Gastroenterologist, I see many patients with complaints of abdominal pain. While most are not worrisome, it’s my job to recognize the more serious symptoms. When a child complains nearly every day of pain about their belly button, reassuringly this pain is almost always due to constipation. Another type of abdominal pain that typically begins Sunday night and ends Friday morning is diagnosed as “schoolitis.” Your child’s symptoms are quite real, but it doesn’t mean something bad is causing them. We call such complaints functional. The collection of these symptoms is called Functional GI Disorders (FGIDs), stemming from how the patient deems his body to function, but the term functional is a misnomer as neither the patient, nor their family, functions well with numerous missed days of school and work. FGIDs are diagnoses of exclusion, which means all lab and imaging reports pointing to

Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

other medical problems are, thankfully, negative. Every piece of information helps tell the story about what is going on in the child and most often the story is not one that reveals abnormalities though the symptoms persist. While this is reassuring, FGIDs are often the most stubborn and unrelenting symptoms we see in Pediatric GI because the cause can be as multifactorial as the child is complex. Symptoms we call “red flags” are more worrisome. Waking from sleep with abdominal pain, waking to have diarrhea, blood in the stool, weight loss, fevers, mouth sores, joint pains, rashes, hard or infrequent stool, fat or oil in the stool, family histories of inflammatory bowel disease, autoimmune disease like Celiac disease, thyroid disease, Lupus, vitiligo, and lab abnormalities including iron deficiency anemia, positive Celiac serology, and elevated markers of inflammation demand more invasive studies such as endoscopy with biopsies.

Today’s children have constant stimulation as well as instantaneous access to information and to you. To lessen the potential for inconsequential complaints, focus on the health and well-being of the whole child with good sleep habits, whole-food-based diets, abundant amounts of water, and enough time outside to get dirty and exhausted from play. Should symptoms persist or if your child develops any red flag symptoms, ask your pediatrician for a pediatric gastroenterology referral. Dr. Meredith Hitch is a Pediatric Gastroenterologist licensed by the Alabama Board of Medical Examiners and certified by the Pediatric Gastroenterology Medical Board of the American Board of Pediatrics. In November 2019, Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network welcomed Dr. Hitch as a physician at Dothan Pediatric Subspecialty Clinic. Dr. Hitch’s clinical interests include functional GI disorders, eosinophilic esophagitis, constipation, fatty liver, and obesity.

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Dothan Soccer Team Reads to PreK

On World Read Aloud Day, the Dothan High School boys’ soccer team visited the Dothan City Schools Early Childhood Center to spend time pouring into our future pack! While our goal is to bring home a championship ring to Dothan, we know what we do every day matters.

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Dothan Elks Donate to Early Education Center

Dothan Elks Lodge 1887 presented more than 80 books to the Dothan Early Education Center on Read Aloud a Story Day. From left are teacher and Elk member Jhina Snell, student Stella Snell, Elk member Sharon Snell Cole, Principal Christy Martin, coordinator Maria Johnson, and coordinator Deborah Wright.

Houston Academy Students Give Back

Houston Academy students volunteered their time working as servers at the annual Girls Incorporated Father Daughter Banquet.

Providence Places at State Track Competition

Providence Christian School’s track and field team had a great showing at the state competition in Birmingham. The varsity boys were state runner-up! The boys also placed first in the 4 x 800m relay team. The girls placed third in both 4 x 200m and 4 x 800m relay team. Several athletes received individual medals including: Clay Suddarth, 2nd place in 3200m and 1600m; Leah Dorsey, 3rd place in 800m; Conner Patterson, 2nd place in 400m; and Robert Woodall, 4th place in 400m.

Faine Students Show Off Manners at Luncheon

Beverlye 6th-Grader Runner-Up in County Spelling Bee

Manners are a MUST at Faine Elementary School! Ask Mrs. A. Harris and Mrs. Knight’s kids and they can tell you all about etiquette. Thank you, Ridgecrest students and Ridgecrest Baptist Church, for our delicious etiquette luncheon. Parents were able to see all the manners their students have been learning over the last several weeks.

Beverle Intermediate sixth-grader Spencer Johnson, a student in Mrs. Keener’s class, was first runner-up in the Houston County Spelling Bee. 9

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Dothan Girls’ Soccer Team Wins Tournament

Way to go, Dothan High School Lady Wolves! They were named Capital of Dreams Soccer Tournament champions!

Coppinville Beta Collects Books for Pre-schoolers

Carver 6th-Graders Design Google Logos

Have you ever wondered where those cool Google logos on the Google homepage come from? This year, you may just see a Google doodle from a Carver sixth-grade student. In Mrs. Richards’s writing and technology class, students practiced their graphic art skills by creating designs for the 2020 Doodle for Google contest using the theme “I show kindness by...” as inspiration.

The BETA Club Book Drive for 3-5 year olds through Family Services was a huge success. More than 250 children’s books were donated by Coppinville Jr. High students.Thank you, Jena, for heading up the drive!

Family Reading Night at Enterprise Early Education Center

Our Kindercat reps and students led and participated in a wonderful event for our Parental Engagement Night. To our EEEC staff and EHS Drama staff, thank you for showing up and showing out!

Kelly Springs Students Learn Different Problem-Solving Skills

Providence Christian Students Headed to State GeoBee

The GeoBee is a national competition sponsored by National Geographic in which students compete in U.S. and world geography knowledge. Providence Christian School’s third-place finisher is 8th-grader Cooper Smith. Second place is 7th-grader Will Nicholls. Grand champion is 8th-grader CJ Sullivan, who will attempt to qualify and attend the State GeoBee championships in March. Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

Ms. James’s students at Kelly Springs Elementary now know that not everyone learns the same way. Students separated into groups based on how they prefer to solve problems: vertically, mentally, number bonds, and place value. From those groups, we drew sticks to randomly pick partners to complete the same worksheet, but they had to work together and try different methods they normally wouldn’t. The outcome was interesting, since some people who thought they preferred one way got to add a new way that they equally enjoyed (and understood). Teachers are important, but students learning from students is a beautiful thing to see and equally as important! www.wiregrassparents.com

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National Signing Day @ Dothan High

Emmanuel Christian Recognizes All-Conference Basketball Players

Emmanuel Christian School Basketball All Conference players include Jodi Anderson, Emma Gurman, Jalyn Brown, Javon Neal and Joshua Johnson.

Carver Teacher Takes Guess Work Out of Fractions

The Dothan City Schools athletic department celebrated two studentathletes from Dothan High School as they signed their national letters of intent to compete at the collegiate level on February 5. Dothan Wolves football running back Ta’Bryious Webb will be going to the University of West Alabama and slot receiver Jabre Barber will be headed to Troy University. Dothan City Schools wishes these student-athletes the very best in their future endeavors while also recognizing the support of these individuals by their coaches, parents, teachers, administrators and teammates.

Fractions can be a difficult skill to master, but Mrs. Smith is helping her fourthgraders understand the concept of equivalent fractions by using hands-on manipulatives! Take a look at the different ways these students combined various polygons to create one whole octagon. Learn on, Lions!

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

award-winning, n a n o t u o s is m Don’t mp for your ca d re te n ce ts ri Ch mmer! daughter this Su On Top of Lookout Mountain in Historic Mentone, Alabama

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

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

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Carver 3rd-Graders Learn About Energy & Motion

Third-grade Carver School for Mathematics, Science and Technology students visited the science lab to learn more about energy and motion. Students used Vernier Motion Detector Probes to gather data related to the motion of a model car. Students performed three different trials, pulling the car back a longer distance each time. Students collected their motion data using a line graph, recorded their data in a data table, then compared their three trials using the graphing function of our Vernier LabQuests. What did we learn? The further we pulled our car back, the more potential energy it stored, and the more kinetic energy it released when we let it go!

Dothan Chamber Honors JROTC Cadets

During its regular quarterly meeting Feb. 5, the Dothan Area Chamber of Commerce’s Military Affairs Committee honored four local area high school JROTC cadets for their outstanding leadership and performance during the current 2019-2020 school year. The committee annually dedicates a meeting to honoring the cadets and their commanders in order to show its appreciation and support of the local JROTC programs. Retired Col. Tom Boyle, Military Affairs Committee chairman, presented the Cadet of the Year Leadership awards to: Carroll High School Army JROTC Cadet Maj. Matthew D. Braswell and Program Commander (Ret.) Col. Milton Shipman; Dothan High School Army JROTC Cadet Lt. Col. Yasmine Hall and Program Commander (Ret.) Sgt. Maj. Tracy Adams; and Rehobeth High School Navy JROTC Cadet Cmdr. Samantha Stricker and Program Commander (Ret.) Lt. Cmdr. Jeffrey Treude. Also receiving a Cadet of the Year Leadership award but unable to attend the ceremony was Cadet Lt. Col. Jose Deras and his Program Commander (Ret.) Col. Teresa Townsend, Daleville High School Army JROTC. “The Military Affairs Committee is proud to have the opportunity to honor these outstanding students and their commanders,” said Boyle. “Our committee looks forward to recognizing these cadets each year and this is just one avenue this committee takes to meet our goal of enhancing the positive interaction between the Dothan area community, Fort Rucker and the area’s military command and personnel.” During the presentations, the cadets and their commanders had the opportunity to talk about their involvement in the JROTC program and future plans. All the cadets and commanders expressed their gratitude to the DACC and the Military Affairs Committee for this special recognition. Currently, the Dothan Area Chamber is the only area chamber that holds such an activity in their honor.

Ice Cream Project Success at Girard

Mrs. Pruitt’s class at Girard Primary had a lot of fun learning about solids, liquids, and gases with Mrs. Strickland. Students made ice cream and then got to try out a root beer float. It was a great learning adventure!

HA Senior Commits To Huntingdon

Houston Academy senior Banks Nichols signed his national letter of intent to Huntingdon College to continue his academic and athletic career. He will head up to Montgomery to play football for the Hawks!

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Beverlye Students Channel Inner Artists

Beverlye Intermediate students enjoyed learning about famous sculptor Michelangelo. They used air dry clay to create their own sculptures.

Dothan Athletes Win Shot Put, Place Third In State Competition

Dothan High student Nathan Cooper, above, is the 6A state champion in shot put, making him the first state champion of the newly formed school. Below, the Dothan High indoor girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; team placed third in the 4Ă&#x2014;200 relay in the 6A state championship.

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Hidden Lake Second-Graders Scope Out Future Careers

NMA Bible Teams Places at State

Shown above, Northside Methodist Academy’s Senior High Bible Quiz Team and Coach Carol Roten did an excellent job at this year‘s ACEA state competition. The students placed third in the state. Special congratulations to Northside seniors Allee Alexander, Tristan Trenary, Drew Riley and Jack Anderson along with Lizzie Michaelis, Mrs. Roten’s granddaughter. Below, NMA’s Junior High Bible Quiz Team, also coached by Carol Roten, placed second in the ACEA state competition after five very competitive rounds of competition. Seventh-grader Laura Kate Hall “quizzed out,” or correctly answered the maximum number of questions for a single quizzer, twice over the course of the competition. All of the students did an excellent job in demonstrating their knowledge of God’s Word and represented their Northside family very well.

Hidden Lake Elementary second-graders have been learning about the working world. Students created models, wrote paragraphs,and dressed for their future careers. The future looks bright for our community!

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Carver Students Get Jump Start on Future Careers

Carver students have goals, and they are already taking action to make their dreams a reality! In Mrs. Saffold’s fourth-grade reading class, students researched their future career goals and prepared a presentation to share with their classmates and families. Students also prepared a written report and illustration which Mrs. Saffold had assembled into a real published book!

Providence Seniors Sweep English Tournament

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Four seniors from Providence Christian School participated in the English Tournament at Enterprise State Community College. All four participated in four sections of the tournament: vocabulary, language, American literature, and British literature. Sarahbeth Wagner won first place in language, American Literature and British Literature. Mary Elizabeth Parker won 3rd place in vocabulary. Drew Lipscomb won honorable mention in British Literature and Cecily Downey won honorable mention in American literature.

Dothan Tech Center Super Crew

These standout building construction students were nominated by their teachers for the Dothan Tech Center Super Crew. Their work ethic and character will have them in very high demand one day.

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Hillcrest Elementary Mid-Winter PTO Night

One of the greatest gifts you can give is your time. Thanks for joining us at Hillcrest Elementary Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mid-winter PTO night. Great job to our choir students and our third-grade students!

Coffee County Spelling Bee Winners

The Coffee County Spelling Bee was held February 11 in the ECS Board Room. Tammy Zou from Dauphin Junior High School was the winner, with Jeyi Lee from Holly Hill Elementary named 2nd Place and Sophie Wesolek from Pinedale Elementary 3rd Place.

Pinedale Kindergartner Recognized for Reading

Congratulations to Pinedale Elementary kindergarten student Reagan Blaise. She can read 100 Fry Words!

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Dothan Prep’s Red Jacket Club Earns All A’s, Perfect Attendance

These 2019-2020 Red Jacket Club members of Dothan Prep Academy were honored for receiving all A’s and perfect attendance during the first semester.

Carver Teams Up with Future Teachers

The Carver School for Mathematics, Science and Technology hosted pre-service teachers from Troy University at Dothan as part of their professional learning experience. Our veteran teachers are experts in their field and have so much knowledge to share with these teachers-in-training, and we have loved the energy and fun activities these beginning teachers have brought to our Carver classrooms! Shown are some of the exciting activities our fifth-graders have completed in Mrs. Norris’s math class. What a wonderful educational partnership!

Houston Academy Math Team Wins State

Houston Academy’s Upper School Math Team won first place at the AISA State Math Competition. Ian Kim earned highest individual score!

Kelly Springs Students Mix it Up at Lunch

Kelly Springs Elementary participated in Mix-it-Up recently during lunch! The students were given colored bracelets and they sat with other students from other classes, with the matching color. They made new friends, talked to people they normally wouldn’t, and it continued the discussion of tolerance and acceptance of others.

Carroll High Names CTE Director

Stephen Phillips has been hired as the new director of career and technical education at Carroll High School. He officially joined the staff on February 26. A graduate of Auburn University (bachelor’s) and Troy University (Master’s), Phillips is a native of Enterprise and is married to Kathy Phillips. They have a daughter, Caroline. In his free time, Phillips enjoys playing tennis, chess and reading. “Being an alumnus of Carroll High School, I am excited about joining the administrative staff and giving back to the community that has given me so much and the school system that prepared me for both college and my career as an educator,” Phillips said. “As the new CTE director, I am excited about working alongside the educators at CHS to bring awareness to our students about career opportunities and to equip them with opportunities to earn business and industryrecognized credentials that will make them highly sought-after employees upon graduating from high school.”

Coppinville Unveils Eagle Statue

The eagle has landed at Coppinville Junior High and it will forever be a symbol of our heritage. A crowd of dignitaries gathered February 10 to unveil our new addition, including Superintendent Greg Faught, Principal Debbie Hope, Mayor Bill Cooper, Dr. Patrick Cain, Mr. Jimmy Jones, Mrs. Dorothy Richardson, and many Coppinville Alumni Association members. Several people spoke and many gathered around the eagle for photos and to reminisce about bygone days at Coppinville High School and the Coffee County Training Center. Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

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Enterprise High English Team Represents at ESCC Competition

The Enerprise High School English Team scored several achievements in the ESCC English Competition! Back row from left are: Jayden Quire, Brian Johnson, Brittany Wyatt, Tra Reynolds, Alison Best, Graciana Doster and Eleanor Covington; front row from left: Daphne Rivera, Victoria Coteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;, Haley Kelley, Julianna Gingrich and Autumn Jones. Alison Best won honorable mention in vocabulary; Victoria Coteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; won 2nd place in vocabulary; Graciana Doster won honorable mention in language; Julianna Gingrich won 1st place in speech; Brian Johnson won 2nd place in British literature; Autumn Jones and Tra Reynolds tied for 2nd place in American literature; Tra Reynolds also won 3rd place in language; Daphne Rivera won 1st place in vocabulary and 3rd place in American literature; and Brittany Wyatt won 3rd place in British literature.

Beverlye 5th-Graders Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

Fifth-grade LinC students at Beverlye Intermediate are designing and building a structure in their favorite architectural style using recyclable materials.

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Camping is the ultimate in outdoor family fun and is loaded with benefits for parents and kids alike. It provides adventure and unlimited opportunities to experience the great outdoors. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s also a great way for kids to learn about nature, from plants and animals to the weather and skies. Historical landmarks and different regions offer lessons in history. And parents get a break from daily responsibilities of life and some relaxation. Not to mention, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an affordable way for families to vacation.

Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

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What’s the best way to camp?

Your family can choose from a variety of camping options. If you love the experience of roughin’ it, pitch a tent, and haul the bare necessities. Tents come in many sizes and styles, some with dividers for separate sleeping quarters. When purchasing a tent, remember capacity doesn’t include luggage space. If you plan to keep belongings in your tent, opt for a larger capacity. Most importantly, don’t forget padding or a blow-up mattress to insulate against the cold, hard ground. If you like the idea of roughing it, yet want some of the comforts of home, a popup camper is the best of both worlds. The canvas sides and pullout sections of popups are surrounded with screens and give the feeling of sleeping in the fresh outdoors. Pop-ups come in several sizes and often include an icebox or mini refrigerator, heater, air conditioning, portable toilet, shower, kitchen sink, stove, cabinets and storage space, dining table, and other necessities. Some families prefer going in style. Travel trailers and motor homes offer a luxurious nighttime retreat after a day of outdoor fun. The ease of loading and unloading these shelters is great for moving from

The cost of travel can make family vacations a rare treat. But the affordability of camping may allow for frequent getaways.

Overnight fees range from a free night’s stay at some state park rustic sites (no showers, toilets, electricity, or water) to $50 or more a night at many of the top KOA and Jellystone Camp Park-Resorts. These top of the line campgrounds are loaded with amenities from built-in swimming pools to live entertainment. State park campgrounds vary from state to state. Still, these are often the best deal for families interested in experiencing all nature has to offer. Fees for overnight accommodations in state parks typically range from $15 to $35. Many state parks have modern facilities including flush toilets, showers, grassy or gravel sites, playgrounds, park stores for firewood and ice, and more. Furthermore, state parks frequently offer miles of wooded hiking or biking trails, natural wonders, historical sites, and much more that may not be found at private camp resorts. Camping also helps keep other vacation expenses to a minimum. Many families prefer cooking over the campfire to eating out. Additionally, most outdoor camping activities are free or available at minimal cost.

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campsite to campsite, making cross-country camping less work. Motorhomes and travel trailers often have a full-size kitchen, living room complete with sofa and chairs, and separate bedrooms for comfort and privacy. Don’t overlook the option of a cozy cabin in the woods. Cabin rentals are sometimes found at campgrounds or in national forests at cabin resorts. Cabins range from basic single room shelters containing only beds to completely furnished three or four room units including kitchenettes. When reserving a cabin, ask what is furnished before you go so you’ll arrive prepared while avoiding unnecessary packing. And don’t forget to ask about electricity, lights, and water. Experienced campers with older children might try a hike-in shelter for a true wilderness experience. Check with state and national parks for shelters that are sometimes set up along extended trails. After a day of hiking, roll out your sleeping bags under one of these small shelters for a dry night’s sleep under the stars.

Camping costs

Fun camping activities

Whatever your family’s interests, there is plenty to see and do. Trails offer ample activities such as collecting rocks, leaves, or insects, scouting for wildlife, learning about plants and trees, and practicing survival skills, to hiking excursions, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Lakes, ponds, rivers, and streams offer fishing, swimming, row boating or canoeing, sunbathing, and more. Wildlife viewing is often a highlight. Look for animals early in the morning or at dusk on dirt roads and trails, in open fields surrounded by woods, and near water. Be patient, walk slowly and quietly, and don’t forget binoculars. Other activities include nature programs, nature centers and historical sites, flying kites, rollerblading or bicycling on paved trails, and more. When ready to relax, light a campfire and enjoy reading or storytelling, play cards or board games, watch the sunset, stargaze, and roast marshmallows.

Easy camp foods

There are many ways to cook. You can purchase a gas or liquid-fuel camping stove, or if electricity is available, a crock-pot or electric griddle works well. You can also

carry a charcoal or small gas grill or cook over an open fire. Keep meals simple to minimize packing, preparation, and clean up. Easy choices include: hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken, steak, sandwiches, eggs, bacon, sausage, crock pot meals, sweet corn, baked potatoes, canned foods such as baked beans, tuna, chicken, spaghetti, ravioli, and soup, fresh fruit, vegetables and dip, bagels, English muffins, cereal, fruit juice, and hot cocoa. On the other hand, if you enjoy cooking and good meals are one of the highlights for your family, then make the most of mealtime. With all the options for cooking, you can easily enjoy a gourmet feast.

Camping tips

Camping is often a learn-as-you-go experience. But the following can alleviate hassles and keep your family safe. Protect your food from animals and animals from your food by blocking access. Animals can find their way into nearly anything. Raccoons are known to lift lids right off coolers to snatch hot dogs and other treats. A cooler that latches is usually a safe bet. Any food that isn’t tightly contained should be stored in your vehicle overnight.

Poor weather can strike at any time and insect infestations can also make for a miserable experience. Make additional shelter such as a screen tent or tarps and rope part of your camping gear. Arrive at your camp destination ahead of the crowd. Every campsite is unique, and early arrival can assure a site that satisfies your needs. When selecting a site look for proximity to restrooms, the playground, electricity, and water. If you have young children, make sure the site isn’t close to a river or lake. The amount of shade you’ll want will depend on the weather forecast. To avoid mud, a grassy or rock site may be preferred. Also, avoid a site backed up to outhouses, which can smell in the heat and wind. Know what animals are found in the area and teach your children animal safety. Wild animals usually want to avoid humans as much as we want to avoid them. Still, they can pose risks. In bear country, those accustom to people sometimes get too close and result in injury. Even small animals that feel threatened may attack. WP Kimberly Blaker is author of the kid’s book Horoscopes: Reality or Trickery? She also writes a blog, The Young Gma’s Guide to Parenting, at www. theyounggma.com.

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5 Risky Apps to Watch Out For

What parents need to know: Video-chatting with strangers can be risky for teens. When it’s paired with location, it’s a no-go. Also, while HOLLA supposedly bans iffy content -- like nudity and violence -- user reviews indicate that masturbation, fake identities, and negative comments are common. The app’s age-matching is a red flag, too. It was easy for our tester to pose as a 13-year-old and get paired with 16- and 17-year-olds. Similar apps: Yubo, MeetMe - Chat and Meet New People, Spotafriend - Teen Meeting App To Make New Friends, ChatLive, Random Video Chat

It seems like every time you turn around, there’s a new app -or type of app -- that’s popular with tweens and teens. Of course, it’s nearly impossible to keep up with every hot new app, which makes knowing the risky features -- like interaction with strangers, anonymity, privacy concerns, and iffy content -- a solid first step. But it’s still important to know the specifics of what’s on your kid’s device and whether or not you’ll allow it to stay there.

BIGO LIVE - Live Stream

IMVU: 3D Avatar Creator & Chat

Kind of like Twitch and YouTube, BIGO LIVE lets teens stream live video of themselves that other users can see and comment on in real time. You can also receive and send “Beans” -BIGO’s term for virtual gifts -- that cost real money. You can level up and improve your ranking by logging in every day and sending gifts. The platform is designed for people who supposedly want to get famous, but it seems to be filled mainly with people competing for gifts. What parents need to know: BIGO has a lot of mature content, including sexy talk and clothing, and users’ comments are often predatory and explicit. Also, its focus on status and spending money, as opposed to creativity and talent, makes it feel shallow.Similar apps: Tagged - Chill, Chat & Go Live! and imo video calls and chat.

Using the website or the app, users interact through elaborate 3D avatars. You can dress them up, place them in public or private rooms, and follow other users and chat with them. You can also buy a wide variety of objects using virtual coins -- earned primarily through taking surveys or watching ads or through buying outright with real money. There’s no game or goal other than acquiring outfits, rooms, furniture, and other items or chatting with other users. What parents need to know: Virtual sex and user privacy are the main issues for teens in IMVU. The avatars sport highly stereotypical body types with big muscles or breasts, and many of the outfits are skimpy. It also appears that users generate a following on other platforms by sharing their IMVU usernames, which invites more contact with people they don’t know. Finally, the search term “IMVU sex” results in lots of advice about how to have (virtual avatar) sex and where to find it in IMVU. Similar app: Avakin Life

BitLife

In this simulation game, you’re assigned an identity to play through the entire game, from infancy to death. As you play -- and your character gets older -- you can make text-based choices about how to make money, spend time, and develop relationships with pretend profiles (which aren’t connected to real people). Those choices determine your levels of happiness, health, smarts, and appearance. When you die, you can start all over. What parents need to know: While kids can’t engage in actual risky behavior, BitLife exposes them to mature ideas. As your character gets older, you can choose to “hook up” with the pretend profiles, drink, do drugs, gamble, and commit crimes. (On the other hand, you can make healthy choices such as going to the gym and meditating.) It’s also easy for players to become overly fixated on the idealized world of sim games. Similar app: Reigns

Socratic by Google

This app lets you take a picture of a homework problem or question and get an answer and explanation in return, similar to Photomath - Camera Calculator. Because it’s more focused and filtered than an open internet search, the results are more targeted and helpful (in other words, it gives you the answers). What parents need to know: The biggest concern is cheating. If your kid decides to use this app as an easy way out of homework, they’ll lose a lot of learning. Secondly, since the answers come from the internet, they aren’t always right. Used with good judgment (and monitoring by a parent), a teen could legitimately use Socratic to dig into tough concepts, but it’s pretty easy to use for cheating. Similar apps: Photomath - Camera Calculator, Mathway, Got It Study - Homework Help

HOLLA: Live Random Video Chat

This app is all about connecting with strangers. Once you sign up using a phone number or your Facebook account, you can get matched instantly with a stranger -- and both you and they appear on camera. Or you can swipe Tinder-style until you like someone and they like you (by tapping a heart). You can also enable location tracking to be paired with someone nearby. 21

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tak the sib an ma wh spends so much time on technology, that learning to communicate face-to-face with peers is important. He quotes a 2015 Pew Research Center study that says “Just 25 percent of teens spend time with friends in person outside of the school day on a regular basis.” In light of that statistic, overnight camp is good place to get kids to socialize without technology. “About 90 percent of camps don’t allow kids to have computers or cell phones,” says Rosenberg. “In general, camps are an oasis for human-powered socialization.”

Ask anyone who has ever been to overnight camp about his or her experience, and you will hear endless tales of comradery, cabin mates and campfires. Many times campers will say overnight camp was the first time they rode a horse or shot a bow and arrow or flew down a zip line. It’s where they learned to make their beds and keep their belongings tidy in cramped quarters. With the perfect blend of adventure and responsibility, camp life teaches kids valuable lessons they can use for the rest of their lives. If you send your child to overnight camp, here are some life lessons they are likely to learn.

How to be independent

For many children, camp is the first time they are away from parents and the familiarity of home. While this may cause some homesickness, it also gives children an opportunity to overcome being homesick. And without parents there, children learn to pick

How to communicate face-to-face

Tom Rosenberg, President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Camp Association, says today’s youth Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

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up after themselves and keep up with their things. Overnight camp can also prepare students for independence in their next steps in life, like trips abroad and college.

How to be a part of community living

Sometimes it’s hard to live with other people, especially if other people drape their clothes over your bed or hog the shower. And it’s not like kids can escape to their own room when they are at summer camp because everyone bunks together in one cabin. But kids can learn to work out differences they may have about how they share their living spaces, and it’s more fun for campers to do the cabin chores together than alone. As they grow up, kids have to learn to work in groups in their communities. “That cabin group has community building at its core,” says Rosenberg.

Children born into all kinds of circumstances have dreams and dreams are powerful. WE DO WHAT WE DO BECAUSE CHILDREN HAVE DREAMS.

How to embrace diversity

Children who go to camp meet other campers from all over the country. They meet kids from different socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. In a study conducted by Philliber Research Associates and the American Camp Association, 94 percent of campers said “Camp helped me get to know other campers who were different from me.”

How to overcome fears

Going to camp takes kids out of their normal day-to-day setting and gives them a chance to try things they might not try when they are at home. In the Philliber study, 74 percent of the kids surveyed said “At camp I did things I was afraid to do at first.” Children may feel more comfortable taking a risk around new acquaintances than they do under the watchful eye of parents, siblings or school peers. If they are trying an activity they have never tried before, they may feel encouraged by staff or counselors who are there to support and guide them.

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

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How to become resilient

Camp life doesn’t always go as planned, and kids learn to adapt and move with what’s happening around them. Camp goers also grow more resilient from trying again when they fail, according to Rosenberg. “Part of growing up is learning that you are not always going to be successful. Sometimes campers fail and counselors help them try again,” says Rosenberg. “Camp is a safe place to make mistakes.” WP Janeen Lewis is a freelance journalist and mom to Andrew and Gracie. Some of her fondest memories happened at overnight camp.

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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. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s time to get your campers ready for summer fun!

2020

Guide

Art Camps All About Art ad on page 15

All About Art Studio, 100 S. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Themed weeks include art projects in canvas, clay, wood, mixed media, pottery, & MORE! Limited camp sizes. Multi-week discounts available. Cost includes t-shirt and snacks. Dates: No Drama Llama June 15-19 All American Art June 22-26 The Art of Disney July 6-10 PreK Week: Down on the Farm July 13-17 Ages: 1st-6th Grade Cost: $125 per camper (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.allaboutartstudio.com

Earth Art ad on page 23

Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Using natural elements found on our nature trails and farmstead, campers will each day design their own unique work of art. Dates: June 15-19 Ages: Ages 6-8 Cost: Members $90; Nonmembers $105 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Cultural Arts Center Summer Camps

909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301

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

Green House Art Studio

300 Virginia Dr., Dothan, AL 36301 Campers can choose morning or afternoon. All materials and snacks provided. Limited spots. Dates: June 8-11 Outer Space Art June 15-18 Mermaids and Pirates June 22-25 Paris in Color July 6-9 Native American Art July 13-16 Botanicals, Butterflies and Bugs July 20-23 On the Farm July 27-30 Sea Creatures Cost: $100 per camper (334) 701-5449 ghartstudio300@gmail.com

Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

Summer ARt Sessions

AR Workshop, 2958 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36301 Kids will create 4 DIY youth projects! Participants will be able to customize and choose their project paint colors from our decor line of paints! We also offer an optional Friday ARt Session, check our calendar to register! Dates: May 26-27, June 1-4, 8-11, 15-18, 22-25, June 29-July 2, July 6-9, 13-16, 20-23, 27-30 Ages: Ages 7-14 Cost: $185 (334) 731-3003 dothan@arworkshop.com arworkshop.com/dothan

Tipsy Easel Summer Camps

102 S. Cherokee Ave., Dothan, AL 36301 Call for information on camps. (334) 714-7147 info@tipsyeasel.com www.tipsyeasel.com

Wiregrass Museum of Art

126 Museum Ave., Dothan, AL 36303 June 8-12: Here There Be Clay Dragons! (Ages 7+) - This camp will take students through an exploration of different hand-building techniques to create their own ceramic dragon! June 15-19: Clay Explorations (Ages 5-8 & 9+) - Students will create multiple works while using different techniques such as scoring and slipping, surface decoration, and glazing. June 22-26: Art Around the World (Ages 7+) - Campers will create a work of art based on a different country and its culture each day. June 29-July 3: Arty Pants for Toddlers (Ages 18 mo.-4 years) - Your little one will enjoy creating art in different ways in this special hands-on camp designed for parents and toddlers. July 6-10: Stop-Motion Animation Workshop (Ages 7+) - Students will learn how to plan, design, and photograph their own stop-motion animation short film! July 13-17: Discovering Art (Ages 5+) - Learn about the artwork on display in the museum, then create your own unique work using the same techniques. Cost: Varies (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Day Camps Adventure Days ad on page 23

Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 We will spend one day exploring the Florida Caverns State Park, one day learning basic canoeing skills and one day exploring a geological wonder right here in the Wiregrass at Landmark Parkâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s waterfall. Dates: June 22-26, July 20-24 Ages: Ages 9-12 Cost: Members $100; Nonmembers $115 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

2020 Summer Enrichment Program

Hawk-Houston Youth Enrichment Center, 329 Chickasaw St., Dothan, AL 36302 Activities include performing & visual arts, academic enrichment, college and career access, sports and fitness, gardening, life skills, swimming, arts and crafts, and field trips. Dates: June 1-July 31 Ages: 6-14 years Cost: $75 per Week plus $25 Application Fee (334) 792-4618 hawkhoustonyec@gmail.com www.hawkhoustonyec.org

Adventure Camp

City of Enterprise Parks & Recreation, 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: June & July Ages: 5-12 years old (334) 348-2682 eprd@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, crafts, and swimming lessons. Camp hours are Monday-Friday 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Dates: TBD Ages: 6-12 years Cost: $100 (334) 615-3700 swingfield@dothan.org

Camp Weevil

Enterprise State Community College, 600 Plaza Dr., Enterprise, AL 36330 Classes include All-Star Sports, Detective Weevil,

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Oogey Gooey Science, Rock it, STEM, Skins â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;N Skulls, Weevil Escape, Wild About Art, Wizarding World of Harry Potter, and Water Games. Snacks and drinks provided. Dates: June 22-25 Ages: 2nd-7th Grade Cost: $130 www.escc.edu/campweevil

Dothan Boys & Girls Club

457 S. Alice St., Dothan, AL 36301 Our Summer programs offer 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 5-30 & July 7-31 Ages: 1st-8th Grade Cost: Both Sessions: 1 Child $540, 2 Children $980, 3 Children $1420, 4 Children $1860; Single Session: 1 Child $270, 2 Children $490, 3 Children $710, 4 Children $930 (334) 792-8787 ldickens@bgcwiregrass.com www.bgcwiregrass.org/summer-program

Enterprise Boys & Girls Club

Old Coppinville Jr. High School, 301 N. Ouida St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Our Summer programs offer 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 8-July 31 Ages: 1st-8th Grade Cost: 1 Child $324, 2 Children $548, 3 Children $774, 4 Children $1000 (334) 347-9520 bgcwenterprise@gmail.com www.bgcwiregrass.org/summer-program

Geneva Boys & Girls Club Summer

411 N. Iris St., Geneva, AL 36340 Our Summer programs offer 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 8-July 31 Ages: K-8th Grade Cost: 1 Child $325, 2 Children $548 (334) 684-6028 bgcwgeneva@gmail.com www.bgcwiregrass.org/summer-program

Girls Inc. Summer Program

785 S. Foster St., Dothan, AL 36301 The program includes weekly field trips, educational activities, structured/unstructured fun, talent shows, and arts and crafts. Slots are limited. Dates: June 8-August 7 Ages: K-8th Grade Cost: $45 per Week (334) 793-2321 girlsincdothan@gmail.com girlsincdothan.org

Junior Ranger Camps

Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd., Blakely, GA 39823 Learn about the environment, conservation, safety and wildlife to earn a Junior Ranger badge. Daily outdoor activities and swimming will be scheduled as well. Dates: June 15-18 & July 13-16 Ages: 7-12 years Cost: $75 (229) 724-2150 gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds

Middle City Boys & Girls Club

Midland City Elementary School, 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 1-July 24 Ages: Midland City School Students Only Cost: $80 per child (334) 445-0512 jessicabgc@yahoo.com www.bgcseal.com

Ozark Boys & Girls Club Summer Program

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. Registration

open to the public March 18. Dates: June 1-July 24 Ages: 6-13 years Cost: 1 Child $315, 2 Children $630 (334) 445-0512 jessicabgc@yahoo.com www.bgcseal.com

Ozark Boys & Girls Club

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. Registration open to the public March 18. Dates:June 1-July 24 Ages:6-13 years Cost:$175 per Child (334) 445-0512 jessicabgc@yahoo.com www.bgcseal.com

Playground Program

Wiregrass Park, Walton Park & Andrew Bell Center, Dothan, AL Structured, supervised events such as field trips, arts and crafts, gym games, and special events. Registration is on a first come, first served basis. Program Hours: 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m, M-F. Dates: June & July Ages: Wiregrass Park 6-12 years; Walton Park & Andrew Bell Center 6-15 years Cost: First Child $20; Additional Child $5; 3 or More Children $30 (334) 615-3700 swingfield@dothan.org

South Dale Boys & Girls Club

South Dale Middle School, 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 1-July 24 Ages: South Dale Middle School Students Only Cost: $80 per child (334) 445-0512 jessicabgc@yahoo.com www.bgcseal.com

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YMCA Kinder Camp

Enterprise YMCA, 904 Ozark Hwy., Enterprise, AL 36330 Ages: 2.5-5 years Cost: Weekly: 1 Child - $85 Members, $95 Non-members / 2 Children - $127 Members, $142 Non-members / 3 Children $170 Members, $190 Non-members (334) 347-4513 enymca@centurylink.net www.enymca.org

YMCA Summer Camp

Enterprise YMCA, 904 Ozark Hwy., Enterprise, AL 36330 Ages: 5-12 years Cost: Weekly: 1 Child - $85 Members, $95 Non-members / 2 Children - $127 Members, $142 Non-members / 3 Children $170 Members, $190 Non-members (334) 347-4513 enymca@centurylink.net www.enymca.org

Youth Adventure 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: TBD Ages: 8-14 years Cost: $50 (334) 615-3700 swingfield@dothan.org

Dates: July 20-24 Ages: Ages 4-5 Cost: Members $75; Nonmembers $90 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Dates: June 15-19 Ages: Ages 4-5 Cost: Mem-

Earth Explorers

Pioneer Farm

Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 In this camp we will unlock the answers to questions you may have about the Earth. We will learn about the environment through exploring, crafts and games. Dates: July 27-31 Ages: Ages 6-8 Cost: Members $90; Nonmembers $105

Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Travel back in time and discover what your life might have been like if you lived 100 years ago. Spend a fun week getting to know the farm animals, participating in various household chores and playing pioneer games. Dates: July 13-17 Ages: Ages 6-8 Cost: Members $90; Nonmembers $105

ad on page 23

www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Ecology Camp ad on page 23

Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 During the week we will focus on plants and animals through nature games, walks, crafts and other activities. Dates: June 22-26, July 13-17 Ages: Ages 6-8 Cost: Members $90; Nonmembers $105

Educational

www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Discovery Days

ad on page 23

Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Learn about birds, plants and even the air we breathe. Highlights will include exploring Landmark Park with your five senses and creating art. We will sing songs, make crafts, tell stories and learn about the world around us.

Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

Farm & Forest Fun Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Spend the week learning the difference between the nocturnal and diurnal animals that call the park home. We will spend time on the farm with the animals active in the daytime and time in the forest looking for scat, footprints and other signs left behind by those animals only awake when the sun goes down.

bers $75; Nonmembers $90

www.landmarkparkdothan.com

ad on page 23

www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Secrets of the Vegetable Garden ad on page 23

Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 The vegetable garden holds many secrets, including living and nonliving elements needed for the garden to thrive. Dates: July 27-31 Ages: Ages 4-5 Cost: Members $75; Nonmembers $90 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Summer Spectacular ad on Back Cover

Troy University-Dothan, 500 University Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 A project-based learning program lead by education majors in which students are involved in hands-on learning. Ages: 4-12 Years Cost: $30 per week hicksc@troy.edu www.troy.edu

www.wiregrassparents.com

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The Adventures in Math & Science 2020 Summer Camp Sessions ad on page 3

Alabama School of Math & Science, 1255 Dauphin St., Mobile, AL 36604 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. Dates: June 1-5, 8-12, 15-19 Ages: 6th-10th Grade Cost: Overnight Camp $390, Day Camp $295 aims@asms.net www.asms.net

2020 GEMS

US Army Aeromedical Research Laboratory (USAARL), 6901 Farrel Road, Ft. Rucker, AL 36362 GEMS program students learn numerous math and science concepts; practice the scientific method, problem solving, and speaking in a public forum; gain exposure to a laboratory setting; and interact with military and civilian technicians, clinicians, scientists, and engineers. Dates: June 15 -19, 22-26, July 6-10, July 13-17 Ages: 4th-11th Grades Cost: Free (334) 255-6907 usarmy.rucker.medcom-usaarl.mbx. stem@mail.mil www.usaarl.army.mil/stem

Emmanuel Christan School Summer Camp

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. Dates: May 26-July 31 Cost: Full Summer $457;

$25/day Drop In; $50 Registration Fee for NonStudents

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

Kids College

Wallace Community College, 1141 Wallace Dr., Dothan, AL 36305 Ages: 1st-3rd Grade & 4th-6th Grade Cost: $120 (334) 556-2203

Summer Teen Volunteer Program

Flowers Hospital, 4370 W. Main St., Dothan, AL 36305 Learn firsthand about the healthcare industry and the services provided to patients. Ages: 14-17 years (334) 793-5000 www.flowershospital.com/studentvolunteers

Martial Arts Dothan Martial Arts Academy

102 Central Park Ave., Ste 3, Dothan, AL 36303 10 weeks of fun-packed activities! Awesome daily field trips. Fun and safe environment. Dates: May 26-August 7 Cost: Varies (334) 678-0903 dothantkd@hotmail.com www. dothanmartialarts.com

Bowling, Arts & Crafts, Movies & much more! Dates: May 26-July 31 Cost: Members $65 per Week, Non Members $75 per Week (334) 475-4308 www.scorpionkarate1.com

Wolfpack Mixed Martial Arts

2952 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36301 Kids will enjoy games, projects, outings, plus the life enriching skills of self-confidence, respect, self-control, and friendship. Dates: May 26-August 7 Ages: Ages 5-13 (334) 677-2002 mmadothan@gmail.com www.mmadothan.com

World Yoshukai Karate Summer Camp

Lakepoint Resort, 104 Lakepoint Dr., Eufaula, AL 36027 Join us for weapons training, self-defense, Japanese fighting, open-hand kata training, environmental fighting, intensive traditional fighting, capture the flag, traditional Kata and Bunkai, Japanese language, & intro classes for guests. Dates: June 12-13 Cost: $75 per person, $105 Family of 2, $120 Family of 3 www.wykko.com

Regional Camps Montgomery Zoo ad on page 27

MojuKai Karate

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

(334) 475-3899 www.mojukaikarate.com

USKA Summer Karate Camp

United Scorpion Karate Association, 1145 James Dr., Enterprise, AL 36330 Includes Karate, Trips, Basketball, Swimming,

2301 Coliseum Pkwy., Montgomery, AL 36110 Join kids of similar ages and interests for a funpacked, educational experience themed around the animals of our planet. Daily live animal presentations, scavenger hunts, craft time, animal encounters, behind the scene tours and more. Dates: June & July Ages: 5-12 years Cost: Full Day - $179 Members, $199 Non-

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Members / Half Day - $139 Members, $155 Non-Members (334) 625-4900 zooinfo@montgomeryal.gov montgomeryzoo.com

Riverview Camp for Girls ad on page 11

757 County Road 614, Mentone, AL 35984 Exciting activities! Unique special events! Camp Traditions! Daily Schedule! 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

Camp DeSoto

264 Highway Above the Clouds, Mentone, AL 35984 Dates: June & July Ages: Girls 8-16 years Cost: Varies by Camp (256) 634-4394 campdesoto@campdesoto.com www.campdesoto.com

Camp Laney

916 W. River Rd., Mentone, AL 35984 At Camp Laney we emphasize sportsmanship, teamwork, honesty, perseverance, truthfulness, loyalty, thoughtfulness, and kindness. Dates: June & July Ages: Boys 7-15 Cost: One Week Sessions $2050; Two Week Sessions $3600 (356) 634-4066 info@camplaney.com / rob@camplaney.com camplaney.com

Camp Mac

2671 Cheaha Road, Munford, AL 36268 Dates: June-August Ages: 1st-8th Grade Cost: Varies by Camp (256) 362-7449 office@campmac.com campmac.com

Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

Camp Skyline Ranch

4888 Alabama Hwy 117, Mentone, AL 35984 Dates: June & July Ages: Girls 6-16 years Cost: 2-Week Camps $4,130 / Mini Camp $2,220 (800) 448-9279 info@campskyline.com / larry@ campskyline.com www.campskyline.com

Religious

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s IncrediCamp 2020

Vineyard Christian Retreat, 245 County Rd. 131, Ariton, AL 36311 Dates: July 6-8 Ages: 1st-6th Grade Cost: $110 by May 31st, $120 after May 31st (334) 762-2256 vineyard@vineyardretreat.org www.vineyardretreat.org

WinShape Camp

Camp Victory ad on page 25

863 Victory Circle, Samson, AL 36477 8 exciting weeks of summer camp! Dates: June & July Ages: 3rd-12th grades Cost: $275 (334) 898-7948 office@campvictoryal.org www.campvictoryal.org/summercamp

Alpine Camp for Boys

209 County Rd. 264, Mentone, AL 35984 Dates: May, June & July Ages: 1st-9th Grade Boys Cost: Varies by Camp (256) 634-4404 glenn@alpinecamp.com or carter@alpinecamp.com alpinecamp.com

Blue Lake Camp

8500 Oakwood Lane, Andalusia, AL 36420 Dates: June & July Ages: 3rd-12th Grade Cost: Varies by Camp (334) 222-5407 information@bluelakecamp.com www.bluelakecamp.com

Camp Wiregrass

264 Wiregrass Rd., Chancellor, AL 36316 Dates: June & July Ages: 1st-12th grades (334) 347-0111 info@campwiregrass.info www.campwiregrass.info/

Enterprise High School, 1801 Boll Weevil Circle, Enterprise, AL 36330 Dates: July 13-17 Ages: Completed K-8th Grades Cost: $219 Week/Scholarships Available (334) 347-9023 winshapecampsenterprise@gmail. com camps.winshape.org/

WIRED 2020

Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36303 Local churches unite to serve those in our community who are less fortunate and are in need. Each Member Attending the full week of Wired will be placed in one of our many Ministry Team Opportunities and serve there the entire week of Wired. Dates: June 21-26 Ages: Camp: 7th Grade College / Nightly Worship Service - Any Age Cost: Camp Early Bird Registration $249 morgan@wiredministries.com wiredministries.com

Special Needs Camp ASCCA

2578 Camp ASCCA Dr., Jacksonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gap, AL 36861 Weekend and week-long sessions year round.

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Camp Rap-A-Hope

2701 Airport Blvd., Mobile, AL 36606 Children ages 7-17 who have been diagnosed

www.wiregrassparents.com

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with cancer at ANY point in their life are invited to attend a FREE summer camp. Ages: 7-17 years Cost: Free (251) 476-9880 info@camprapahope.org www. camprapahope.org

Camp Seale Harris

Westgate Park, 501 Recreation Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 For Children with Diabetes. Dates: June 15-19 Ages: 5-15 years Cost: $175 (205) 402-0415 info@campsealeharris.org campsealeharris.org/

Camp Smile

Walton Park Recreation Center, 122 Walton Park Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Campers enjoy games, crafts, music and other fun activities. Ages: 6-18 years Cost: Free (334) 615-4743

Camp SMILE

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

Camp WheezeAway

Camp Chandler, 1240 Jordan Dam Rd., Wetumpka, AL 26092 A week long camp for children with asthma. Dates: May 24-29 Ages: 8-12 years Cost: Free (334) 799-3449 brendabasnight@yahoo.com ymcamontgomery.org/camp/wheezeaway/

Smile-a-Mile Summer Camps

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Harbor at Lake Martin, 1 Our Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hwy., Alexander City, AL 35010

Dates: On Therapy Family Camp April 24-26

Sibling Camp May 28-31 Youth Camp June 1-6 Teen Camp July 6-11

Junior/Senior Camp July 30-August 2 Off Therapy Family Camp August 14-16 Cost: Varies

www.smileamile.com/summer-camp-sessions

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Sports Troy University Football ad on Back Cover

Troy University - Veterans Stadium, 5000 Veterans Stadium Dr., Troy, AL 36082 Position specific. Campers will participate in onthe-field practice sessions including agility work, individual drills, meetings with coaching staff and more. Dates: May 28, June 4, 8, 18, 25 Ages: 9th-12th Grade Cost: $40 (334) 670-3682 Dfaulkner@troy.edu www.totalcamps.com/chiplindseyfootballcamps

Troy University Soccer ad on Back Cover

600 University Ave., Troy, AL 36082 May 30: ID Camp (8th-12th Grade) - $99 June 1-5, July 13-17: Youth Camp (Ages 4-13) - Half Day $109, Full Day $199; July 10-12: Residential (Ages 11-18) - Residential $379, Commuter $275 www.trojansoccercamps.com

Troy University Volleyball ad on Back Cover

Trojan Arena, 625 International Blvd., Troy, AL 36081 June 9, 16, 30: Position Clinics (2nd-12th Grade) - $30; July 10-11: Team Camp (HS Varsity & JV Teams) - Resident Camper $225, Commuter Camper $175; July 17-18: All-Skills Camp (7th-12th Grade) - Resident Camper $225, Commuter Camper $175 www.troyvolleyballcamp.com

Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

Troy University Women’s Basketball

Tykes $97, Half Day $129, Full Day 175

bmilburn@challengersports.com www.challengersports.com

ad on Back Cover

600 University Ave., Troy, AL 36082 June 1-4: Little Dribblers (PreK-8th Grade) - Fun Times Learning Fundamentals. All Campers Receive a Camp T-Shirt. Games, Competitions & Relays. $90 per camper June 18: Elite Camp (8th-12th Grade) - Instruction on speed & agility training needed to improve your game. $75 per camper June 19-20: Team Camp (High School Varsity, JV, Middle School & AAU Teams) - 3 Games/ Day, Situational Tournaments & Prizes, and Team Bonding Activities. Cost varies. (334) 670-5718 jgraf@troy.edu www.troywomensbasketballcamps.com

All Zones Fastpitch Academy

1601 Geneva Hwy., Enterprise, AL 36330

(334) 672-7259 allzonesfastpitch@yahoo.com www.allzonesfastpitchacademy.com

David’s Performance Factory

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

Dothan Hoops

126 S. Woodburn Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 (334) 791-8683 dothanhoops@gmail.com www.dothanhoops.com

Dothan International Soccer Camp

Northcutt Football Field, 395 Northcutt Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Dates: July 27-31 Ages: 3-16 Years Cost: Tiny

Spring Break Camps Spring Break Camps @ Landmark Park ad on page 23

430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 March 23: Nature Hike - Listen for bird songs, look for fish and turtles and check out what’s blooming this spring. March 24: Soda Shop Memories - Soda Jerk Celeste Conner shares the story of the Martin Drugstore, learn how the soda fountain works, explore the artifacts and enjoy a sweet treat. March 24: Art Explosion Ceramic Bugs! - Let your imagination be your guide as you create a project to take home. All materials will be provided. PreRegistration required. $10 materials fee. March 25: Hand Sewing 101 - Learn how to sew on a button or mend a tear. No experience required. Registration is required and seating is limited. March 26: Irish Dance Class - Dance a jig with instructor Kim Mullenix, founder of Dothan Irish Dancers. March 26: Art Explosion Terra Cotta Pot Painting - Let your imagination be your guide as you create a gardening pot to take home. Pots and paints will be provided. Pre-Registration required. $10 materials fee. March 27: Old Fashioned Fun & Games - Learn about toys and games that kids played in the 1890s with Landmark Park Agricultural Museum

www.wiregrassparents.com

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Hawk-Houston Spring Break Program

Hawk-Houston Youth Enrichment Center, 329 Chickasaw St., Dothan, AL 36302 Arts & Crafts, Computer Skills, Basketball/Volleyball, Movies, Gym Games, Life Skills, Kite Making/Flying, Academic Enrichment, Physical Fitness, Water Slide, Easter Egg Hunt, & More Dates:March 23-27 Ages:K-9th Grade Cost:1 Child $60, 2 Children $110, 3 Children $170, 4 Children $240, 5 Children $20 ($10 Application Fee per Child)

(334) 792-4618 hawkhoustonyec@gmail.com www. hawkhoustonyec.org

Iron Chef Boot CampSpring Break Kids Camp

Black Cat Bakeshop & Kitchen, 123 N. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 This camp teaches culinary basics and provides lots of hands-on cooking so your kids can develop the confidence they need to get creative in the kitchen. Dates:March 30-April 2, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Ages:Ages 8 & Older Cost:$150 (334) 475-4600 blackcatbakeryal@gmail.com

Unique Aerospace Expedition ad on page 23

Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 This camp takes flight and immerses campers

into space and aviation! Campers will get to have hands-on experiences through art, games, and even test their own theories with their own experiments. Dates: July 6-10 Ages: Ages 9-12 Cost: Members $100; Nonmembers $115 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Fun Zone Summer Camp ad on page 19

Fun Zone Skate Center, 465 Westgate Pkwy., Dothan, AL 36303 We offer a Christian-based program where children are grouped by age with counselors for structured fun every day, including: swimming, bowling and movies weekly, daily outdoor activities, educational field trips, arts and crafts, and daily devotionals with area youth ministers. Field trips include: swimming, zoo, educational types, arts and crafts, bowling, park, nature walks. Campers will need tons of energy for our program, so we provide breakfast, lunch and snack each day (cooked & prepared on-site)-included in their weekly tuition. Ages: 5-13 Years Cost: 1st Child $125, 2nd Child $117, 3rd child $109 (334) 678-7529 denise@funzonedothan.com www.funzoneskatecenterdothan.com

Myths & Legends Camp ad on page 23

Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Take a walk through local folklore and discover the stories of faeries lurking in the woods in our newest camp! Campers will get to explore the heavens to find the stories amongst the stars, venture into the unknown, and even learn myths from around the world!

Dates:J uly 6-10 Ages: Ages 9-12 Cost: Mem-

bers $100; Nonmembers $115

www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Axtion Air Jump & Sports Summer Camp

3525 Ross Clark Cir., Ste 315, Dothan, AL 36303 Climbing Walls, Trampolines, Batting Cages, Ropes Course, Ninja Course, Laser Tag, Art Classes, Visit to AMC Theater, and STEM Classes. Includes snacks, drinks, and lunch. Dates: Weeks of July 6th & 13th Ages: 6-15 Years Cost: $150 per Week or $35 per Day (334) 446-5175 www.axtionair.com

Mermaid Classes

Little Guppies Aquatics Swimming Lessons, Dothan, AL We will be working on a Choreographed Routine to Music and present a â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mermaid Showâ&#x20AC;?, in Water to the Public at the end of July. Dates: June 1-July 31 (334) 596-0642 sonjaw201@gmail.com Facebook: @LittleGuppiesPrivateLessons

Xtreme Air Summer Camp

Xtreme Air Trampoline Park & Ninja Course, 441 Nypro Lane, Dothan, AL 36305 All Day Camp includes lunch and fun planned activities Cost: $129 per Week (334) 797-JUMP xtremeairtrampolinepark.com

Youth Bowling League

Dothan Lanes, 5727 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 Meets Saturday mornings at 10:00 a.m. Dates: May-July Ages: Standard 6-9, Bumper Division 5 & Under Cost: Standard $6 per Week, Bumper Division $5 per Week (334) 983-1585 www.bowlsrc1.com/Centers /Dothan-Lanes WP

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

FamilyCalendar Monday March 1

Egg Quest 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, 5130 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Local students and artists’ eggs will be on display throughout the Gardens from March 1 - Easter. Take a stroll to “hunt” for the eggs and vote for your favorite!

Monday March 2

Lego Club (Free) 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Headland Public Library, 17 Park St. Headland, AL, 36345 Join us for some “creative” fun the 1st Monday of every month. This program is designed for ages 4+. No Pre-Registration required.

Tuesday March 3

Move, Groove, Read! (Free) 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 You and your baby will sing songs, do finger-plays, and enjoy books and baby games, all intended to help little ones discover words and language. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Move, Groove, Read! (Free) 11:15 a.m. - 12:15 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 You and your baby will sing songs, do finger-plays, and enjoy books and baby games, all intended to help little ones discover words and language. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Hot Wheels & Lego Club (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Build amazing Hot Wheels Tracks and LEGO creations with your friends! The club meets on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays in the Children’s Room! (334) 774-5480 www.odcpl.com SEUSStival (Free) 4:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 You could not, would not, want to miss a fantastic jubilee such as this! Help Center Library celebrate Dr. Seuss’s birthday with games, crafts, and excitement galore! (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Youth Art Month Opening Reception (Free) 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 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 middle and high school students. Exhibition open through March 28th. (334) 794-3871 wiregrassmuseum.org

Thursday March 5

K-2nd After School Lego Club (Free) 3:15 p.m. - 4:45 p.m., McGregor-McKinney Public Library, 101 E. Fulton St. Hartford, AL, 36344 We will have various activities each month including some challenges and free style building. Space is limited. LEGO Builders Club (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308

Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

Donnell Blvd. Daleville, AL, 36322 Come join us for some fun build challenges or you can enjoy some easy going freestyle building. (334) 503-9119 dalevillepubliclibrary@troycable.net Pajama Story Time (Free) 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Wear your comfiest PJs and bring your favorite stuffed animal as we sing, dance, and read stories. Open to authorized patrons and EFMP friendly. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

Friday March 6

Foster Fest (Free) 6:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Downtown, Dothan, AL Live music on 3 stages, cars, vendors and much, much more!

Monday March 9

Maker Monday (Free) Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Children will explore a variety of art and STEM related activities, as well as participate in fun challenges that are guaranteed to ignite their inner engineer! (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

Tuesday March 10

Diamond Rio (Advance Tickets: $30 Adults, $10 Students / Day of Tickets: $35 Adults, $10 Students)

7:00 p.m. Enterprise High School, 1801 Boll Weevil Cir. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Diamond Rio is an American Country Music band that plays a hybrid of modern country, traditional bluegrass (especially in their harmony singing), and a hint of rock & roll. (334) 406-2787 www.coffeecountyartsalliance.com

Art of Yoga ($10) 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 All-levels appropriate class. Bring your own water bottle, yoga mat, and towel. No reservation required. (334) 794-3871 wiregrassmuseum.org

Saturday March 7

Toddler Tales: Easter Surprise ($20 per child) 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., All About Art, 100 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Story time and a related art project for toddlers and their caregivers. Light toddler friendly refreshments will be provided. Ages 15 months-4 years. (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com First Saturday Family Day (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Create your own windsock using a toilet paper roll, tissue paper, markers, and cut paper. (334) 794-3871 wiregrassmuseum.org

Recommended for ages 12+. www.seact.com

Mamma Mia! ($25) 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Dothan Opera House, 115 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father.

Wednesday March 11

Thursday March 12

Miss Headland Pageant 7:00 p.m. Headland High School Auditorium, 8 Sporman St. Headland, AL, 36345 Support our local girls and their dreams of being queen.

Eastgate Park Community Playground Build 8:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Eastgate Park, 1949 Sanitary Dairy Rd. Ashford, AL, 36312 Ages 18 and older. Refreshments and lunch will be served. Call Dothan Leisure Services to register! (334) 615-3700

Squishy Circuits (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Ashford Library, 305 6th Ave. Ashford, AL, 36312 Join us to create circuits and explore electronics using Squishy Circuits! Registration required. www.dhcls.org

JonJam ($25-$30) 8:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., The Plant, 308 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Bike Ride begins at 8:00 a.m. Gates Open at Noon. Chili Cook-Off, Kid’s Activities, Music. Providing better quality of life and services for those living with physical limitations! www.jonjam.org

S.T.E.A.M.agnetation (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 This month we will create circuits and explore electronics using Squishy Circuits! Registration required. www.dhcls.org

Spark Theater Footloose Auditions 9:00 a.m. Spark Theater Co. Studio, 1330 Hartford Hwy., Suite 5 Dothan, AL, 36301 We are bringing Footloose: The Musical to the Dothan Opera House stage this May. Roles available for ages 14 & up. caleb@sparktheatercompany.com

Sunday March 8

Reptile Feeding (Adults $4; Kids $3) 4:00 p.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Meet Indie our Eastern Indigo snake, along with our Corn snake and Grey Rat snake, and several turtles and learn why these animals are important to the environment. www.landmarkparkdothan.com

DIY Squishies for Teens (Free) 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Adults and teens aged 12 and up are invited to Center Library to make their own squishies! All supplies provided. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Youth Write Night (Free) 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Participants are encouraged to prepare an original piece, not to exceed five minutes in length when presented. Works can be individual or collaborations – poetry, skits, fiction, non-fiction, humor, commentary, and beyond! Open to 6th-12th graders. wiregrassmuseum.org

www.wiregrassparents.com

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FamilyCalendar Mamma Mia! ($25) 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Dothan Opera House, 115 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. Recommended for ages 12+. www.seact.com Visiting Artist Workshop ($50 Members, $60 NonMembers)

9:30 a.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Indulge your inner artist with a two-hour glass blowing session! March 12-15. Sessions at 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 2:30 p.m. each day. wiregrassmuseum.org

Friday March 13

Mamma Mia! ($25) 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Dothan Opera House, 115 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. Recommended for ages 12+. www.seact.com Screen on the Green: The Princess & The Frog (Free) 7:30 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. Food vendors. FREE popcorn. wiregrassmuseum.org Visiting Artist Workshop ($50 Members, $60 NonMembers) 9:30 a.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Indulge your inner artist with a two-hour glass blowing session! March 12-15. Sessions at 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 2:30 p.m. each day. wiregrassmuseum.org Ashford Spring Fling Ashford, AL, 36312 Live music, local vendors, car show, food, admission free kids section, and more! ashfordareachamber@gmail.com

Saturday March 14

Brushes & Brunch ($15) 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Enterprise Rescue Squad, 205 E. Lee St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Ladies, grab your girls and makeup bags for an exclusive hands-on experience where you will learn to achieve flawless makeup. Limited seating.

featuring bluegrass, gospel and country music. www.landmarkparkdothan.com World’s Smallest St. Patrick’s Day Parade 12:00 p.m. Downtown, Enterprise, AL, 36330 St. Paddy’s Day Half Pint 0.5K 12:30 p.m. Downtown, Enterprise, AL, 36330 Don’t take this too seriously, because we don’t! Come hang out with fellow “runners” as we conquer these daunting 546 yards. Popcorn and a Movie (Free) 12:45 p.m. Ozark Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Join us for a free kid-friendly movie with popcorn and a refreshing beverage! (334) 774-5480 www.odcpl.com Dale Co. Relay for Life Pageant 2:00 p.m. Flowers Center for the Performing Arts, 312 E. College St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Open Pageant with 9 age divisions and 10 contestants to be crowned. Entry deadline March 2. missjkim.moore@gmail.com Enterprise St Paddy’s Pub Crawl ($55 per Person) 3:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., The Craft Bar & Grill, 1024 Boll Weevil Cir. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Registration starts at 2:30. Buses leave The Craft at 3:30 p.m. Stops at Bama Slam Saloon, White Oak Ale House, Beef O’ Brady’s, Bananas, and Hangar 33. (334) 475-4055 Youth Turkey Hunt 5:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 This event is open to the public, youth ages 7 – 15 years old. A parent/escort of the youth must have an Alabama State Hunting License and Post Permit Hunter Education Completion Card. (334) 255-4305 rucker.armymwr.com Zonta International Food Festival ($30 Adults, $10 Kids) 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Experience flavors and entertainment while you tour the world! Activities, games and facepainting for the children. angie.zonta@gmail.com Mamma Mia! ($25) 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Dothan Opera House, 115 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 ABBA’s hits tell the hilarious story of a young woman’s search for her birth father. Recommended for ages 12+. www.seact.com Shamrock Shuffle 5k/10k 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Ft. Rucker (334) 255-2296 rucker.armymwr.com

Cookies and Canvas: Cozy Campfire ($20 Per

11x14 Canvas / $30 Per 16x20 Canvas)

1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m., All About Art, 100 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36360 Designed to be a family experience, however, kids 10 and up may be signed up to participate independently. Refreshments will be served. Sign up in store, online, or by phone. Ages 17 and under. (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com Saturday Crafternoon (Free) 1:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Work on a featured monthly craft, or bring your own project. EFMP friendly and open to authorized patrons. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

Pickin’ in the Park ($4 Adults; $3 Kids) 10:00 a.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Musicians are invited to bring their instruments and join in an instrumental jam session

Visiting Artist Workshop ($50

Members, $60 NonMembers) 9:30 a.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126

Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Indulge your inner artist with a two-hour glass blowing session! March 12-15. Sessions at 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 2:30 p.m. each day. wiregrassmuseum.org

Sunday March 15

Audition for An Inspector Calls 2:00 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 4 Men; 3 Women. Performances Apr. 28 - May 2, 2020 www.seact.com

Visiting Artist Workshop ($50 Members, $60 NonMembers) 9:30 a.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126

Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Indulge your inner artist with a two-hour glass blowing session! March 12-15. Sessions at 9:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., and 2:30 p.m. each day. wiregrassmuseum.org

Monday March 16

Cupcake Decoration 101 with Hailie (Free) 4:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Learn how to prepare, fill and use decorating bags, and basic piping techniques using buttercream. All supplies provided. Ages 10-17. www.dhcls.org

Audition for An Inspector Calls 6:30 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 4 Men; 3 Women. Performances Apr. 28 - May 2, 2020 www.seact.com

Tuesday March 17

Hot Wheels & Lego Club (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Build amazing Hot Wheels Tracks and LEGO creations with your friends! (334) 774-5480 www.odcpl.com Adult Book Club (Free) 5:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Enjoy good books, intelligent discussion, and light refreshments. Bring new book ideas! Ages 18 and up. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com Audition for An Inspector Calls 6:30 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 4 Men; 3 Women. Performances Apr. 28 - May 2, 2020 www.seact.com

Wednesday March 18

Books, Balls, & Blocks! (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 The purpose of the event is to screen children for developmental delays in the first 5 years of life. www.dhcls.org The African Children’s Choir in Concert (Free) 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Ozark Baptist Church, 282 S. Union Ave. Ozark, AL, 36360 Come and experience a uniquely immersive performance that shows the beauty, dignity and potential of each African child!

Thursday March 19

Youth Coloring Club (Free) 3:15 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd. Daleville, AL, 36322 After-school Coloring Club for youth that love more complex coloring pages. Light refreshments, coloring, and good conversations. Art Talk! (Free) 5:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us for drinks and a guided tour of the galleries. wiregrassmuseum.org

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FamilyCalendar Teen Book Club (Free) 5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Come and discover your new favorite author. Light refreshments will be served. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com A Night 4 Hope ($5 Donation) 6:30 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Dothan 1st, 3615 W. Main St. Dothan, AL, 36305 Join Dothan 1st, Wilburn & Wilburn, The LeFevre Quartet, and Derek & Jana Simonis for a powerful evening of music benefitting Dare to Hope, Inc., a ministry bringing the hope of Jesus Christ to women in the Wiregrass Area who are hurting, helpless, and hopeless due to sexual exploitation. www.DareToHope.net HIPPY Group Meeting (Free) 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., 301 W. Lafayette St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Parents will join Ms. April for a Parent Cafe where you will discuss positive parenting solutions while your children enjoy fun, character building activities with the HIPPY staff! Mad Scientist Workshop (Free) Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 This program is open to ages 7 to 12. All supplies will be provided. (334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

Friday March 20

The Glass Menagerie ($15/adults (18-64 yrs); $13/ Seniors (65+) & Military)

7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Spanish Trail Playhouse, 680 2nd St. Chipley, FL, 32428 Amanda Wingfield convinces her son, Tom, to bring home a gentleman caller for her shy, physically-handicapped daughter, Laura. Children 5 and under not permitted (850) 638-9113 www.spanishtrailplayhouse.com

Saturday March 21

Spring Farm Day

(Adults $8; Seniors/Military $6; Kids $4)

10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Turn back the clock over 100 years and experience living history demonstrations of blacksmithing, plowing with mules, quilting and other traditional springtime farm activities. Entertainment will include traditional music. www.landmarkparkdothan.com Coffee & Coloring (Free) 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us for passive aggressive coloring! All supplies are provided or bring your own. www.dhcls.org Miss Geneva County & Miss Dale County Pageant 11:00 a.m. Daleville Cultural & Convention Center, 750 S. Daleville Ave. Daleville, AL, 36322 No residency restrictions. Everyone is welcome! Easter Eggstravaganza 2:00 p.m. Outskirts of Heaven Animal Park, 8977 Hwy 27 Newville, AL, 36353 Chris the Magician, pony rides, hayrides, bouncy house. Food, music, contests, giveaways, and more. Egg hunt. Followed by a movie in the park.

Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

Fort Rucker’s Spring Outdoor Yard Sale and Flea Market 7:00 a.m. Festival Fields, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 This outdoor event provides the opportunity for the Fort Rucker community to buy and sell used household items in a consolidated fashion. rucker.armymwr.com Southeast Alabama Highland Games (Adults $10 / Kids 10 & Under Free)

9:00 a.m. National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Fun for the whole family! This is a family friendly event. We encourage everyone to come out if only to see the games and watch the demonstrations that will be going on. We will have kids activities! www.WiregrassHighlandGames.com

Monday March 23

Saturday March 28

Diabetes WALK for Camp Seale Harris (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Westgate Park, 501 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us at the Kiwanis Shelter for music, free healthy snacks, diabetes awareness info, Team Awards and Prizes, and a 5K or 1 Mile Walk/ Run to support kids with diabetes! campsealeharris.org/diabeteswalk

Peanut Proud (Free) Court Square, Blakely, GA, 39823 5k and Fun Run. Parade. Over 100 Vendors. Kids’ Peanut Butter Obstacle Course. Entertainment featuring Craig Campbell. Street Dance. peanutproudfestival.com

Tuesday March 31

Friday April 3

Camping Under the Stars (Free) 5:00 p.m. Lake Tholocco, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Celebrate the Month of the Military Child with S’mores, Coffee, Popcorn, Hot Chocolate, Inflatables, Boat Rides, Tent Decorating Contest and more. (334) 255-4305 rucker.armymwr.com Family Fun Fest ($6) 5:00 p.m. Culpepper Park, Hwy 85 Daleville, AL, 36322 This year’s Fair will be bigger and better with more rides and attractions.

Saturday April 4

Ft. Rucker’s Children’s Festival (Free) 10:00 a.m - 1:00 p.m., Festival Fields, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Tons of activities, games, inflatables, crafts, kids karaoke, and one of the area’s largest Easter egg hunts. Enjoy photos with the Easter Bunny, Petting Zoo, and even a magic show. rucker.armymwr.com Piney Woods Arts Festival (Free) 10:00 a.m. Enterprise State Community College, Enterprise, AL, 36330 Local artists from around the area showcasing their talents and fun activities for the kids! Family Fun Fest ($6) 5:00 p.m. Culpepper Park, Hwy 85 Daleville, AL, 36322 This year’s Fair will be bigger and better with more rides and attractions. Ozark Crawdad & Music Festival (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., Downtown, Ozark, AL, 36360 Craft and food vendors, live music, children’s activities, a car show and of course, hundreds of pounds of boiling crawdads!

Sunday April 5

Piney Woods Arts Festival (Free) 10:00 a.m. Enterprise State Community College, Enterprise, AL, 36330 Local artists from around the area showcasing their talents and fun activities for the kids! Family Fun Fest ($6) 5:00 p.m. Culpepper Park, Hwy 85 Daleville, AL, 36322 This year’s Fair will be bigger and better with more rides and attractions.

Teen Babysitter Course 8:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., Youth Center Building, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 All the training you need to kick start your babysitting career! Ages 13-18. Open to CYS registered members. (334) 255-9638 rucker.armymwr.com

Every Monday

Wednesday April 1

Every Tuesday

Family Fun Fest ($6) 5:00 p.m. Culpepper Park, Hwy 85 Daleville, AL, 36322 This year’s Fair will be bigger and better with more rides and attractions.

Thursday April 2

Family Fun Fest ($6) 5:00 p.m. Culpepper Park, Hwy 85 Daleville, AL, 36322 This year’s Fair will be bigger and better with more rides and attractions. Wreath & Bow Making Class ($25 per person) 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Eastgate Park, 1949 Sanitary Dairy Rd. Ashford, AL, 36312 Each participant will make a wreath to take home. All supplies will be provided. (334) 615-3730

Mom & Me: Dad Too! (Free) 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Soldier Service Center Bldg., 5700, Rm. 371G Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Playgroup for families with children ages birth to 16 months. (334) 255-9647 rucker.armymwr.com

GP Quilters (Free) 12:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Grace Place Church, 5730 Shellfield Rd. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Get together with other quilters of ALL skill levels to create and construct colorful quilts. Just bring your sewing machine or willingness to help! (334) 347-5214 www.mygpchurch.com Story & Craft Time @ Main (Free)

10:15 a.m. - 10:45 a.m., Dothan Houston Co. Library-Main Branch, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us for preschool story

www.wiregrassparents.com

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FamilyCalendar & craft time. Registration is not required, but supplies are limited. Call ahead for groups. Ages 2-6. (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org Toddler Tales (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Lucy Hilton Maddox Memorial Library, 11880 Columbia St. Blakely, GA, 39823 Story time with music and crafts for children under the age of 5. Teen Recharge! (Free) 3:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryMain Branch, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 S.T.E.A.M. based activities such as robotics, 3Dpens, crafts, computer coding, art, video games, etc. will be available to all at no charge. Ages 12-18 (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Every Wednesday

Story & Craft Time @ Westgate (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Dothan Houston Co. Library-Westgate Branch, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us for preschool story & craft time. Registration is not required, but supplies are limited. Call ahead for groups. Ages 2-6. (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org Short Story Reading Group (Free) 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. Library-Westgate Branch, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Our Short Story Discussion group meets every Wednesday from 2:00 pm to 4:00 PM at our Westgate Branch. (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org Tot Time (Free) 9:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Soldier Service Center Bldg., 5700, Rm. 371G Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Playgroup for families with children age 17-36 months. Registration and proof of immunization required. (334) 255-9647 rucker.armymwr.com

Every Thursday

Adult Coloring Club (Free) 10:00 a.m. Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd. Daleville, AL, 36322 Good conversation and coloring geared for adults. (334) 503-9119

Story Time (Free) Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Story, craft and snack all focused on a theme. Thursdays at 10:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

Every Friday

Little Learners Library Adventures (Free) 10:00 a.m. Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd Daleville, AL, 36322 Join us for story time, music, rhythm sticks, crafts, snacks, and free play. (334) 503-9119 Story Time (Free) 10:15 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 This program introduces the joy of reading to children ages 2 - 5 years old, and enhances parent-child interaction. (334) 255-0891 rucker.armymwr.com Far Out Friday (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Lucy Hilton Maddox Memorial Library, 11880 Columbia St. Blakely, GA, 39823 Science for children ages 6-12.

Every Friday & Saturday

Wine Down with Art ($30/person) 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., All About Art, 100 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Step-by-step class for all experience levels. Walk-ins accepted if space is available. Ages 18+. Bring your own beverages and refreshments. (334) 348-2738 www.allaboutartstudio.com

Every Saturday

Pokemon League (Free) 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Come battle Pokemon through cards or video games! Come have fun and make new friends! (334) 774-5480 www.odcpl.com

Story & Craft Time (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Ashford Library, 305 6th Ave. Ashford, AL, 36312 Registration is not required, however supplies are limited and will be available on a first come basis. (334) 899-3121 www.dhcls.org Storytime & Activities (Free) 11:00 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 4601 Montgomery Hwy #100 Dothan, AL, 36303 Story with activities to follow, plus, get a coupon from our CafĂŠ for a grilled cheese sandwich with milk or juice for $4. (334) 671-8013 Dothan Dance Club (Free) 7:00 p.m. - 10:00 p.m., Doug Tew Rec Center, 300 Garland St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Come dance, socialize, enjoy a variety of food & have a fun night out with good people. Ages 18 & up.

Every Sunday

Baby & Me Storytime 11:00 a.m. Barnes & Noble, 4601 Montgomery Hwy #100 Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us as we read a book and participate in activities featuring sensory growth for your little ones. (334) 671-8013 BMX Beginner Instruction (Free) 2:00 p.m. Circle City BMX, Westgate Memorial Park Dothan, AL, 36303 Beginner instruction, loaner bikes, and helmets are provided. Just wear long sleeves, long pants, and athletic shoes. (334) 714-0212 Chess Club (Free) 2:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryMain Branch, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 All Chess boards and pieces are provided. (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org Scrabble Club (Free) 2:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryWestgate Branch, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us for Scrabble Club on Sundays at Westgate! (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org

Kids Art Classes (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 From sketching to painting with watercolors, join us to learn new skills and practice perfecting your old ones. Ages 5 & up. Supplies provided. (334) 774-5480 www.odcpl.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

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five minutes, a rush of mom guilt would come over me, and I had to get back to him immediately or I would have an anxiety attack. Now being a mother for 19 months, I believe that very statement is the secret to motherhood. Sometimes my “time to myself” consists of simply washing my hair and shaving my legs. Occasionally, my husband and I will go to dinner or I will run errands with my best friend, Courtney, or get my nails done with my mom. It’s those little outings that let me recharge. I just recently got to the point where I got tired of looking in the mirror and seeing a burnt-out mom. It was then I decided that what everyone kept saying to me might just make a difference. I now make time to make myself feel like a person. Being a mom is hard. You add in a full-time job, a husband, and a house to take care of, and it becomes overwhelming at times. So moms, as hard as it may be, take time for yourself.

Amanda Stokes

WP: Working in news gives you a unique perspective on pretty much everything. How do you think your background has shaped you as a mother?

WP: Your family recently grew by one beautiful little girl. How is everyone adjusting?

AS: Having worked in news and hearing about the things that happen in this world and even right here in our community makes it that much harder to be a mother. I am constantly looking over my shoulder. I don’t take my eyes off my children for even a second. Unfortunately, the world we live in is a scary place. Right now they are completely dependent on me, and I watch every move they make. Honestly, I have no idea how I am going to handle it when they become old enough to have some independence. Thankfully, I still have a while before that happens.

AS: Our little Evalynn Rose was an unexpected blessing, but having two that are only 13 months apart has taken some time to adapt to. I was a nervous wreck when I found out I was pregnant again. Stanton was only 5 months old, and I was in panic. Could I handle two? How was I going to make sure Stanton got enough attention with a brand new baby? I haven’t lost any baby weight, I am about to be huge! The fears were coming at me from every angle. Evalynn Rose made her debut in September, and all of my anxiety instantly disappeared. Even though Stanton was just over a year old, he instantly loved his little sister. He helps feed her, he gives her his toys, he loves holding her, and will even put her paci back in her mouth if she drops it. It has been an amazing experience for Jared and me to see the relationship the two of them have already. We can’t wait to watch them grow and to see that relationship flourish over the years.

WP: What advice would you give to a new mom? AS: If I could go back and talk to myself as a new mom, I would tell myself to stop and take a breath. I had so much anxiety as a new mom. It was the doubt of, “Am I doing this right?” “Is he eating enough?” “Why is he crying?” It was doubt after doubt. I cried more than I care to admit. I had absolutely no idea what I was doing. I read all the books and Pinterest articles, but it didn’t prepare me for the reality of just how hard being a new mother would be. It took almost a year to realize that I wasn’t alone. All new mothers feel this way. So if you are a new mom or a soon-to-be mom and you are reading this, I want to tell you that you’re not alone. You are doing a great job. You are a great mom. Just breathe. WP: You’ve heard the saying, it takes a village. Do you have a tribe that helps you navigate motherhood? AS: Yes, and I don’t know what I would do without them. My husband is my rock, my partner, and a lot of the times my therapist when life gets overwhelming. My parents have been my greatest supporters. I couldn’t have done new motherhood without their constant advice and help. My parents and I have always had a great relationship, but becoming a mother has turned them into my two very best friends. My mother-in-law is always willing to keep our babies when Jared and I have something we want to do or simply just need a date night. My grandma (Nana) has been there to answer every question about every little bump that appears on Stanton and Evalynn Rose. She was a school nurse for over 50 years so it’s been such a blessing having her so close. Then there is my best friend, Courtney, who has guided me through every stage of motherhood. These are my people, and I couldn’t do it without them.

WP: Got any plans for this summer? What’s something your family is looking forward to? AS: Stanton and Evalynn Rose love to be outside, so I’m sure our summer will consist of a lot of fun in the sun! Learning to swim at Gigi and Paw Paw’s house is definitely on the top of the summer to do list. Jared and I love the beach, and we are looking forward to sharing that love with them this summer. WP: Being a working mom is kind of like being a juggler. Between the kids, your husband, and job, it can be tricky keeping everything balanced. How do you avoid mom burnout? AS: I could talk forever about this topic. You know they always say to moms, “Make sure you take time for yourself.” When people would say that to me as a new mom, I remember thinking, “Yeah right, when am I supposed to do that?” If I left my son for even Wiregrass Parents I March 2020

Amanda Stokes teaches TV Video Production at the Dothan Technology Center. She and her husband, Jared, have two children: Stanton and Evalynn Rose.

www.wiregrassparents.com

Introduces STEAM Learning

Highly Qualified Teaching Professionals

$150 Per Week

Interactive Playground

Coleman Center for Early Learning and Family Enrichment

ENROLL YOUR CHILD TODAY!

Nancy Mitta Director, Coleman Center 334-983-6556 ext.21352 troy.edu/colemancenter

Help prepare your child for academic success by enrolling him or her at Troy University’s Coleman Center for Early Learning and Family Enrichment. The Center, located in Coleman Hall on TROY’s Dothan Campus, provides children ages 6 weeks through 4 years old with the foundation and academic experiences needed to excel within the classroom as they prepare to enter the worlds of primary and secondary education. A student- and family-centered curriculum

Affordable rates and family-friendly hours

• The Center seeks to promote each student’s independence, curiosity, decision making & problem-solving skills. • Students will be introduced to creative learning opportunities that focus on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts & math). • Our program seeks to create an environment that nurtures family and staff relationships.

• Tuition for every child is $150 per week (with some exceptions due to grant classrooms). • Family Guidance will be accepted. • The Center is open year-round from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday.

A safe, fun environment that promotes learning and curiosity • The Center provides 24-hour on-campus security and an ICC 500 rated storm shelter to protect students and staff from severe weather. • Students enjoy an indoor gross motor room, interactive playgrounds.

Coleman Center Flyer.indd 1

Highly qualified teaching and health professionals • Teachers within the K4 program possess 4-year degrees in early childhood education or a related field. • Auxiliary teachers have earned a minimum of a CDA or associate degree in early childhood education or a related field.

2/27/20 9:48 AM