Wiregrass Parents October 2019 by KeepSharing

Mirror, mirror on the wall, whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s been vaping in the stall? - Sarah, 8th Grade

For more information visit AlabamaHealthyTeens.com

October2019

Columns

Volume 2 Number 2

From the Publisher Ashton Wright

Common Sense Media Advice for parents on discussing “sexting” with their teens.

The Expressive Child

Help them understand their emotions and express them in a healthy way.

Therapeutic Parenting Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

Kids Health Watch by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

24 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Dave Says Dave Ramsey

Pumpkin Decorating Made Easy Ten no-carve approaches for Halloween.

Fall Festivities and Halloween Fun

Our guide to all things “fall” in and around the community.

Departments 9

Teacher of the Month

On The Cover

Lucy Claire Sowell, 4, is the daugh-

ter of Chad and Alaina Sowell. She is in Pre-K at First Baptist Church of Headland. Lucy enjoys playing outside, going shopping, riding the carousel at the mall, and playing with her favorite doll, Katie.

School Bits Movie Reviews 40

Family Calendar 44

Mom to Mom

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FromThePublisher The Area’s Go-To Resource for Families

I might be biased, but all the best things happen in the Fall. The heat and humidity aren’t quite as oppressive, the leaves are changing colors, and Thanksgiving (my favorite holiday) and my birthday are right around the corner. From scarecrows to pumpkins, festivals to haunted houses and trick-or-treating, the Wiregrass has a lot to offer this time of year. Some of my family’s favorite things to do this time of year are to see the Scarecrows in the Gardens at Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, visit the pumpkin patch at Aplin Farms, and of course eat our way through the National Peanut Festival. You’ll find each of those and much more in our annual Fall Festivities and Halloween Fun Guide. The first year my husband and I dated, we bought a pumpkin to carve together for Halloween. We decided to do it the old-school way, no stencils involved. Just triangles for the eyes and nose and a crooked, gap-toothed smile. We named him Alfred and displayed him on the bar of my very first apartment. Alfred didn’t actually make it to Halloween because his head caved in on itself, and we haven’t carved a pumpkin since. This year, I think we’ll take notes from our feature article, Pumpkin Decorating Made Easy: 10 No-Carve Approaches for Halloween, instead. Do you make your own Halloween costumes? Growing up, we had a mix of DIY and store-bought ensembles. One of my favorites was the year my mom used a clear trash bag, balloons, and a red beret to turn me into a gumball machine. Alexis has decided she wants to be Elsa for Halloween this year, complete with temporary sprayin white hair dye. Of course there’s more to October than festivals and costumes. You’ll find all the best family-friendly activities in this month’s calendar, our Kids Health column is all about teen doctor visits, and this month’s Mom to Mom shares her thoughts on navigating life with two teenage daughters. Also featured this month: Raising an Expressive Child, an article that’s all about helping children understand and cope with their emotions. Now that we’re about two months into the school year, I feel like we’re finally finding our rhythm. It’s still not any easier for me to roll out of bed at 6 am every morning, but I have found that I like having a more defined set of hours to my work day. I’m happy to report that most days I get myself ready before taking Alexis to school and that so far we’ve only been tardy once, knock on wood. I may or may not be counting down the days until Fall Break when I can turn off my alarm and hopefully sleep in. Until then... Happy Fall, 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

ashton@wiregrassparents.com

Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

Editor DeAnne Watson editor@wiregrassparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Contributing Writers Mark Gregston Christina Katz Sarah Lyons Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP Dave Ramsey Jennifer Stinson, MD Cover Photography Jessica Sanford www.jsanfordart.com

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

Visit us at www.wiregrassparents.com

Ashton

M O

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

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MEDICARE Open Enrollment October 15, 2019 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; December 7, 2019

Have Questions?

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TherapeuticParenting by Sonia Martin, LICSW, PIP

The “Air Traffic Controller” Phase I had a revelation the other day as my back door was endlessly opening and closing, with a constant stream of children and their friends and the dog and the dog’s friends coming in and out and in and out. Requests and updates were flying through the air: “Mom, can my friends come in?” “Mom, when is dinner?” “Mom, if we put a mattress on the ground can we jump off the carport roof?” I had a brief moment of realization and that is this: I am an air traffic controller. At this phase of parenting – with 2 kids in college, 2 seniors in high school, and 3 other high schoolers right behind them, I realized how much of my life doesn’t actually resemble traditional mothering anymore, but more and more resembles that of an air traffic controller. I have spent the last 22 years intentionally leading, loving, disciplining, teaching, and correcting all of these children, and now I feel like I spend most of my time just making sure the planes run on time, that they don’t crash into one another, and certainly that they don’t jump off the carport roof. Essentially – I am here to help them arrive safely to their destination. And I’m okay with that. It’s gratifying really. They are nearly grown and they do things like drive to high school in the morning and then go to their

Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

college classes in the afternoon. They have jobs, they play baseball, they have (gasp!) friends that are girls. It is fun and busy and chaotic and feels like life is barreling down the runway at 150 knots. But back in the days of toddler tantrums, sleepless nights/weeks/months/ years, when my days were consumed with snack time and Teletubbies (which… hello. Let us all be thankful that phase is long done and over), I could never have imagined that I would arrive at this place of chaotic peace. And though I would never be so bold as to tell mothers in a hard phase to “enjoy it, because it goes by so fast,” I will say this...have perspective. The very definition of perspective is: to have a particular attitude toward or way of regarding something. So my encouragement to you, tired momma, is to summon the strength to pull back from the situation you are struggling with and see if you can view it from a different vantage point, because our perspective can so often determine our attitude. Essentially, our thoughts determine our feelings which then direct our actions. It’s a 1-2-3 step process. (1) Thoughts come into your head, (2) that activates a feeling response which then (3) dictates your actions. If you think your teenager is being defiant

because he just didn’t do what you asked – you will feel disrespected – then you will be inclined to lash out at him. But hang on, let us shift perspective. Maybe your teenager is struggling with an issue or is so consumed with the stressors of high school life and navigating social norms and academia and the lunchroom that he truly forgot what he was told to do. In this instance, we may feel compassion for him and be more apt to handle the situation with grace and a bit of empathy. So take heart, there is often more than one way to look at a particular parenting problem. By exploring and taking the time to think through some of those options, we are able to adjust our responses to more effectively meet the needs of our children. I have more to say on this, but I have to go peel children off of the roof now. Fly high fellow parenting warriors, fly high. 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.

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November 1-10 • Go To NationalPeanutFestival.com 5

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Scarecrows in the Gardens

October 1-31 *Dothan Area Botanical Gardens Bring your friends for an enjoyable stroll through the park. The theme for this year’s 15th Annual “Scarecrows In The Gardens” is “Classic Movies & TV.” No entrance fee is required, but a gate donation is appreciated. $100 cash prizes will be awarded to the top 5 overall winners and to the best school entry. Judging will be based on creativity, originality and adherence to this year’s theme. For more info, visit www. dabg.com.

October 7-28 Any Dothan-Houston Co. Library Location All you need is a favorite story or book character! You may decorate your real or fake pumpkin with paint, markers, cloth, glue, construction paper, or whatever you need to embellish your pumpkin. Please do not carve or puncture your pumpkin in any way. This keeps them from rotting or disintegrating while in our libraries. Pumpkins must be based on a book character. Families are encouraged to work together, but we ask that most of the work be done by the child. Pumpkins are to be turned in at any DHCLS location beginning on October 7, but no later than 8 p.m. on October 28. Pumpkin winners will be announced and notified beginning on October 30. We will be awarding multiple prizes! For more info, visit www.dhcls.org.

Champions of Hope

Saturday, October 19 * 7 a.m. Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, Dothan www.sehealthfoundation.org The Sandi McCool Champions of Hope is a 5-K, 10-K and half marathon competitive race, 1-mile Spirit Walk and Kids Zone community cancer awareness event presented annually by the Southeast Health Foundation. Each year sponsors, runners, walkers, and survivors, along with their families and friends, gather to raise money and awareness about the importance of early detection and intervention. Each year a cancer survivor is selected as the honorary chair of the Sandi McCool Champions of Hope. Our Honorees for the 2019 Sandi McCool Champions of Hope are Christi Peterson & Al Stefin. Previous chairwomen include Sandi McCool (inaugural chair and event inspiration), Kelli Cundith, Kelli Hall and Franzie Bondy.

Art After Hours

Thursday, October 17 * 7:30-9:30 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, Dothan Free for members; $5 for not-yet members Visit www.wiregrassmuseum.org or call (334) 794-3871 Art After Hours is WMA’s quarterly event to celebrate the opening of new exhibitions. Come wander the galleries, have a drink, and take in the new art on display. You might even have a chance to speak with one of the exhibiting artists or try your hand at an in-gallery activity. Light snacks will be served, and drinks will be available for purchase.

Fall Fling

Thursday, October 31 * 5:30-8:30 p.m. Westgate Park, Dothan This event will be held on the soccer fields across from Miracle Complex and will feature inflatables, treats, popcorn, cotton candy, a mystery trail, and a costume contest. It is a free family event, so please make plans to join us for a great evening of fun! Any business, club, or organization may register to set up a booth and pass out treats to trick or treaters. If you are interested in registering as a vendor, please call (334) 615-3700. Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

Downtown Enterprise www.enterprisealabama.com Retail shops along Main and College Streets warmly invite visitors to come inside and discover the treasures they hold. There will be a pumpkin decorating contest, a cornhole tournament, kids’ activities, community performance and music! Additionally, the streets are lined with vendors selling a variety of items to include local businesses and organizations, arts and crafts, handmade accessories, home goods, jewelry, lawn and garden items, fresh fruits and vegetables from local farmers, food trucks and so much more. If interested in becoming a vendor, call (334) 347-0581 or e-mail info@enterprisealabama.com. 6

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Swamp Gravy: Behind Closed Doors

First Saturday Family Day

October 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 & 25-26 Cotton Hall Theater, Colquitt, Ga. Small-town myths and legends can be spawned from nothing more than a little white lie! Watch as young love blossoms, old friendships falter, and the florist in town keeps everybody’s secrets. These are the stories you haven’t told Mama yet! Join us for our 27th year of Swamp Gravy as we explore secrets, lies, and the things we hide! Friday performances at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 & 6 p.m., and Sundays at 2 p.m. Tickets are $22 for Individuals and $20 for groups of 20 or more. To make a group reservation, please call (229) 758-5450. For more info, visit www.swampgravy.com.

October 5 * 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, Dothan Saturdays are the perfect day for children and families to explore WMA together. A free come-and-go art activity for kids of all ages is offered the first Saturday of every month. All supplies are provided and no pre-registration required. Each Saturday will feature a different project, and special additional activities are included some Saturdays. During October’s event, head up to the study to try your hand at salt painting. Starting with a black piece of paper, you will be able to draw a design with a glue bottle, then add salt and watercolor to see your lines vibrantly come to life! Gallery and garden activities for kids of all ages are available, too. For more info, visit www.wiregrassmuseum. org or call (334) 794-3871.

Fall Farm Day

Mystery at Moss Street Mansion

Saturday, October 19 * 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Landmark Park, Dothan Cost: $8 Adults; $6 Seniors/Military; $4 Kids (ages 3-12); FREE for park members Enjoy the sights, sounds and sweet smells of cane grinding, syrup making, butter churning, soap making and other traditional farm activities. Also includes music, antique tractors, wagon rides and the largest quilt display in the Wiregrass region. For more info, visit www.landmarkparkdothan.com.

October 3-5, 10-12, 17-19 & 24-26 * 6:30-9:30 p.m. nightly Southern Broadway Theater, Enterprise Come watch the mystery unfold inside the grand old Moss Street Mansion, located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. You never know what secrets might be discovered as you become immersed in the oddities and eccentricities of the owners and their family and guests. Call (334) 470-6568 or visit www. southernbroadway.com.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Preparing for the Adolescent Doctor’s Visit Adolescence is a time of great transition for parents and children. It seems like yesterday you were changing diapers and teaching her to ride a bike. Just last week, you tucked him in after reading his favorite story for the thousandth time. Now, suddenly your jokes are lame; she doesn’t want to hear your stories anymore; he’s the expert on E-V-E-R-Y-thing (except, apparently, cleaning his room). As puberty begins, we are suddenly in a new phase called adolescence, during which your child is transitioning from a period of dependence to more independence. Adolescence is roughly defined as the period between ages 12-18 (age 19 in Alabama). This developmental period of tremendous physical and mental growth, where children are not quite children yet not quite adults, may start a little earlier for some and extend a few years longer for others. To meet the needs of an adolescent, physicians change the way we approach their healthcare. As early as age 12, the physician may have the parent leave the exam room to discuss health issues one-on-one. Private dis-

Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

cussions are age and developmentally appropriate and may cover topics such as relationships; risk-taking behaviors like using drugs, alcohol and nicotine; and mental health issues like selfesteem, depression, anxiety, and bullying. We may also discuss topics concerning sex, sexuality, sexual development, STD’s, and pregnancy. We use confidentiality to build trust and rapport with your teen. In most cases, what is discussed privately is kept private. Lack of confidentiality is one of the main reasons teens decide not to seek healthcare. Legally in Alabama the general age of consent for medical treatment and services is 14. In some instances, consent can be even younger. Compliance significantly increases when parents or supportive, responsible adults are involved. In cases when a teen does not feel comfortable discussing certain topics with a parent, confidentiality provides them access to a responsible adult to help them make informed and healthy choices. In situations where an adolescent is a danger to himself or others, confidentiality is broken and parents/ responsible caregivers are informed.

Parents can do many things to help adolescents be more independent at healthcare visits. Teach them how to complete check-in forms and about their personal and family medical history. Encourage questions and promote openness with their doctor. Despite growing independence, teens need their parents. They need you to teach them how to advocate for themselves and to show them how to be self-sufficient and healthy. Our role as physicians is to be a partner on this journey. If you have questions, talk to your healthcare provider about their adolescent policy. Jacob Edwards, MD, FAAP was born and raised in Atlanta, Georgia. In 2012, he completed a three-year Pediatric Residency program at Children’s National Medical Center, Washington, DC. After practicing in Enterprise then Tuscaloosa, Dr. Edwards made his way back to Enterprise to join Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network in May 2017. He practices primarily at Enterprise Pediatric Clinic. Dr. Edwards enjoys CrossFit, traveling, the beach, and spending time with his dog, CoCo.

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Kristin Booth Girard Intermediate School

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Sharing books from her personal collection and pizza parties just because are what sets this month’s Teacher of the Month winner apart. “The other day she threw her classroom a pizza party and spent over $75 of her own cash,” says Olivia Poitras. “She loves to give personal books from her house for her students to read and take home. She recently started to hand out Smarties during tests to remind her students that this test isn’t the end of the world and does not determine their worth or intelligence.” Kristin Booth teaches sixth grade at Girard Intermediate School in Dothan. She says she always wanted to be a teacher. “I was the kid who lined up stuffed animals in front of a chalkboard and taught math skills. As I got older, I had a couple of excellent teachers - Mrs. Grout, Mrs. Adam - who influenced me. The passion and pure excitement that they brought to class made me want to teach, too.” Booth says she’s honored to have made a difference in her short time here in the Wiregrass. She says she’s motivated by her students and truly enjoys coming to school and interacting with them.

“Being a military family, we have had the opportunity to live in various parts of the United States. I enjoy introducing my students to cultures and other ways of life outside of Dothan, Alabama. I have partnered with some teacher friends in other parts of the country to establish pen pals. Students will be able to hand write and mail letters describing their life here in Alabama with students in New York, New Hampshire, and Alaska.” Booth motivates her students by helping them set and reach goals. She says watching her students cross their goals off once they’ve been accomplished is one of her favorite teaching moments. Like all good teachers, Booth knows it’s not just about book learning. “I want my students to know that kindness matters. In a world where they can be anything, I hope they choose to be kind.” Kristin Booth received her AA in Early Childhood Education from Plymouth State University in Plymouth, NH, her BA in Social Studies from Granite State College in Concord, NH, and her MST in education from the State University of New York at Potsdam. She currently holds teaching certificates in Alabama, New York, and New Hampshire. She and her husband, John, have six children: Hayle, Olivia, Natalie, Ethan, Benjamin, and Aiden. They range in age from 19 to 9. The Booths are a military family and have traveled and lived all over the United States.

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Faine Initiates Positive Office Referral Program

Autauga County Schools

Something new is buzzing at Faine Elementary—positive office referrals. Each teacher randomly selects students who are exemplifying Faine leadership qualities. The students never know who might get chosen. Three were chosen the first week! Assistant principal Burns called their parents and explained all the things their child had done to receive this honor. The students got five “Bulldog Bucks,” a treat, and signed their name in the book of positivity. Congratulations Josiah, Keke and Kameron!

Dothan Graphic Arts Students Design Logo For American Cancer Society Event

Dothan Tech graphic arts students led by instructor Gina Burdeshaw partnered with the American Cancer Society on a special project. The students were tasked with developing an event logo for the American Cancer Society’s Pulling for a Purpose event. They were divided into groups that consisted of two artists, a planner, a media relations person, a presenter and a critic. Megan Kirkland from the American Cancer Society joined the class to help announce the winning group of students, which included JayQuan Jones, Hunter Howell, Makayla Jennings, Kenyon Brown, Destin Thomas and Tyreke Pressley. Their logo will be used on printed material including T-shirts and posters for the American Cancer Society’s Pulling for a Purpose event on October 12 at the Dothan Regional Airport.

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

Jazz Dance Outreach at Heard Elementary

We are super excited about dance with Mr. Vince this year! Thank you, Patti Rutland Jazz. We’re ready to dance!

Houston Academy Blue Zone Makes Special Delivery Houston Academy’s Blue Zone made some special deliveries to local heroes recently. A big thank you to all of our local men and women who make daily sacrifices to serve and protect our community. Special thanks to Gourmet Handmade and Beckettbakes for helping to make this possible. Shoutout to Ashleigh Rane Savoy’s fifth-grade class for making cards for our firefighters. Always great supporting our local heroes! Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

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Rehobeth Elementary Beta Adds 47 Members

Rehobeth Elementary is very proud of its Beta Club and excited to see it continue to grow. Close to fifty new membership candidates were selected in August. We hope these students will continue to strive for academic excellence as well as exceptional character and conduct.

Northside Methodist Pancake Project

Mr. Nelsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first cooking project at Northside Methodist Academy is always pancakes. He doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t help students during their first project; they have to come up with the recipe and make it happen. Once they finish, they talk about their failures and successes.

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Highlands Class Wins Attendance Award

Mrs. Carterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first grade class at Highlands Elementary won the schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s award for best attendance in the month of August.

Houston Academy Thrives in Biology Lab

Students worked with partners to select the appropriate tools to make metric measurements in Paula Deanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s biology class at Houston Academy. They collected the data needed to determine averages for pea pod length, pod mass, and pod volume of two different species of pea pods. Students had to design their own data table, record the data, and create appropriate graphs for communicating the data. This lab incorporates both metric measurement and the scientific method.

Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

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Carroll Seniors Tackle Flames in Fire Academy

Rep. Marques Helps New Brockton High

These Carroll High School seniors are in our Eagle Fire Academy led by the Ozark Fire Department. Real-world experience right here in our city that prepares our students for the workforce!

Special thanks to State Representative Rhett Marques for providing a donation to New Brockton High School!

Ties Donated to D.A. Smith Middle for ‘Manhood Monday’

Hudson Etheridge displays just some of the ties donated by Project Hope of the Wiregrass, an organization to benefit Veteran’s in our area. Thank you Project Hope of the Wiregrass for supporting “Manhood Monday” at DA Smith Middle School!

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

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Rehobeth Elementary Selfies

We love to show off student work at RES! Shown below are third-grade selfies from Mrs. Minniefield’s class.

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Dothan Early Ed Center Builds Relationships

School nurses are the best! Nurse James works carline every morning and afternoon at Dothan Early Education Center (and there’s Ms. Taylor in the back—another carline rockstar). We love building relationships with our students and families each day during dropoff and pickup.

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Please email news and photos to schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com by the 10th of each month for FREE publication!

Enterprise HS Football Players Read to Pinedale Students

Pinedale Elementary students enjoyed some of the Enterprise High School football players reading to them. Thanks for showing our students that reading is important. GO WILDCATS!

Miss Coppinville Crowned

The 2019-2020 Miss Coppinville Pageant is in the books. Congratulations to winners Scarlett Gates, Miss Coppinville; Abigail Christianson, 1st Runner-Up; Hadley Stanford, 2nd Runner-Up, and Rachel Lee, 3rd Runner-Up. Other winners were Abigail Christianson, Miss Congeniality, Scarlett Gates, Most Photogenic, and Anna Grace Cole, Miss Eagle. All pageant proceeds will benefit our science department. Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

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Providence Seniors Visit Younger Students

Dothan Students Cook Up Change

Providence Christian Academy’s senior football players and cheerleader captains visited the grammar school students recently. They took the time to answer questions, play games and share with our little Eagles. This is always a football season highlight for grammar school.

Dothan 7th-Graders Send 100 Cards to Bahamas

Sam Davis’s 7th-grade civics class students at Dothan Prep Academy created 100 wonderful cards of encouragement for those in the Bahamas recovering from Hurricane Dorian. “These handmade cards of encouragement were made to be put inside the hundreds of boxes of supplies for the Hurricane Dorian Relief Effort which will be sent to the Bahamas,” said community member and Wiregrass 211 Executive Director David Duke. “Most of the cards have the Bahamas flag and colors on them. These are absolutely wonderful cards made with so much creativity and full of compassion from these incredible students. Some even have pop ups. I’m reading them now with tears streaming down my face. You have no idea how much these letters will mean to those who receive them in the Bahamas.”

First- and second-year culinary arts students at the Dothan Technology Program partnered with students in the CNP program for the “Cooking Up Change” food competition. Students were challenged to use any food normally used by the lunchroom to make an entree, side, and dessert that falls within nutritional guidelines and costs less than $1.40. Each team made an oral presentation to the judges about their dishes. The winning team (Austin Hughes, Madison Sherwood and Jordan Swain) prepared a chicken salad, side salad with homemade dressing, and a yogurt with fruit cup. Their recipe will be circulated in a few Dothan City Schools lunchrooms for other students to try.

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Rucker Students Help With Morning Drop Off

Safety Patrol Leaders are getting started at Rucker Boulevard Elementary. Be on the lookout for a new group of smiling faces each week to greet our students and assist with the car line. From left are Cole Green, Madeline Moreno, Mr. Steed, Manny Gonzalez and Arihana Cianciolo.

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Heard Elementary Extended Day Program

Heard Elementary students really enjoy Extended Day activities. Thank you, parents, for trusting us with your precious children during the day and after school.

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

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Hartford Police Visit Geneva County Elementary Pre-K Students

Pre-K had a visit from Hartford Police Department recently. We got to explore the police cars and we learned about using 911 for emergencies. Thank you, HPD, for all that you do!

Midland City 4th-Graders Raise Flag Daily

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Midland City Elementary custodian Mr. Bowman helps our 4th-grade students raise the flag every morning. Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

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Girard Primary Opens Little Free Library

On September 9, students at Girard Primary School had a special visit from the Dothan-Houston County Library System and a few of the Queens from the National Peanut Festival Pageant to help them celebrate the Grand Opening of their Little Free Library. In addition to the Grand Opening, 260 Girard students were issued library cards and the entire school got a tour of Houston County Library Systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bookmobile, where they found so many great books to spark their reading adventures. Special thanks to DHCLS Director Cynthia Plesner and her incredible staff of Youth Services Director Kristin North and Ann Love. Friends of the Library include: Everlie Bolton, Jane Belches, Charlotte Douglas, Donna Amick, Susan Knight, Adrianne Hays and Bookmobile driver Tammy Stevens.

Harrand Creek Awards Positive Office Referral

Harrand Creek Elementaryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s first positive office referral for the year. Students are rewarded for making good choices and being leaders.

Oct. 19 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Landmark Park Quilt Show 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan 334-794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Oct. 18 & 20, 1 - 4 Oct. 19, 10 - 4

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Enterprise Scouts Hold Golden Eagle Dinner

Houston Academy Helpers Walk Younger Classmates to Class

Every morning Houston Academy student helpers from 4th grade volunteer to walk 3P, 4P and 5K students to their classes. This has been a great opportunity for students to develop leadership skills and form lasting relationships with the preschool students.

On August 27, the Alabama-Florida Council of the Boy Scouts of America held its annual Golden Eagle Dinner in Enterprise. During the dinner Katie and Wesley Britt were honored. Katie is a native of Enterprise and currently serves as the CEO of the Business Council of Alabama. Wesley is a former standout on the University of Alabama football team and former NFL player. Wesley currently works for Alabama Power. The chapter was also honored to have members of Girl Troop 150 help with the Color Guard. First Class Scout Abby Herring acted as Master of Ceremonies. Eagle Scout Nolan Bennett of Troop 50 shared about his Eagle Project that he completed to help the Veterans of Foreign Wars. The troop was successful in raising 100% of its goal and that success goes to Chairman James Tarbox.

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SHS Grad Becomes State Trooper

Slocomb High School alumnus Pate Nelson is one of the newest graduates of the Alabama State Trooper Academy. SHS is proud of his hard work and decision to protect and serve the people of our state.

Geneva County Pre-K Learns Fire Safety

Thank you so much to the Hartford Fire Department for coming to teach our pre-K students about fire safety. They loved getting to see the inside of fire truck and ambulance.

Language Assessments

Learning Center (Dothan and Daleville) and In Home Therapy

Speech Therapy

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Autism Therapy ABA Therapy DreamPad

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Slocomb Middle Fun History Lesson

What an amazing experience today for Slocomb Middle School 6th-graders! Mrs. Edwards turned her classroom into a hands-on opportunity for students to experience a day in the life of early Americans as they expanded west. 19

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NBHS Announces Homecoming Court

The 2019 New Brockton High School Homecoming Court includes: 9th-grade attendant Madison Jones, 10th-grade attendant Rexanna Jackson, 11th-grade attendants Brittany Taylor and Madisen Weems and 12th-grade attendants Destiny Hataway, Mary Beth Smith and Jayle Teele!

Enterprise Football Team Reads to Kindercats

Enterprise Early Education Center welcomes Enterprise High School football players each Friday. We love having our former students and current leader athletes reading and assisting our Kindercats. A big thank you to Coach Darlington for organizing and promoting these leadership opportunities. It’s great to be a Wildcat!

Second-Graders Sing at First Lisenby Chalk Talk

Lisenby Elementary second-graders did a great job performing at our first Chalk Talk. A big thank you to Meagan King Johnson for the wonderful job she does with our students in music!

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What an honor to have our students’ work outside the Dale County central office. Mr. McCloud’s career center students amaze us! Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

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Pinedale 2nd-Grader Reads to Kindergartners

Madison, a second-grade student in Ms. Keelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s class, read Llama Llama to Mrs. Snellâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s kindergarten class.

Coppinville Jr. High JS2S Club Welcomes New Students

JS2S held the first Welcome to Coppinville party of this school year for new students. It was a Meet, Greet, and Eat during each lunch wave. JS2S members ate and mingled with new students over lunch and desserts in Flex Room B.

Coffee County Youth Leaders

New Brockton High School members of the Coffee County Youth Leadership Committee include, from left, Lauren Griffin, Jordan Boland, Briana Adkinson, Yolanda Reyes Luna, and ZaNyah Truitt. These students participated in a welcome reception at the CCBOE. 21

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Abbeville Christian Academy Homecoming Week Superheroes

Students Take Math Field Trip

WCC Hosts Henry County Leader Visit

Students from Mr. Crowdisâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s classes at Early County Middle School took a trip to Harveyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for a real-world math competition. Students used their decimal and fraction math skills to determine unit costs, serving amounts, costs and price comparisons in a fun competition against their classmates. Winning teams were selected from each class.

Wallace Community College hosted the Henry County Youth Leadership class as they toured the criminal justice program.

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

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Talking About “Sexting”

by a sexting scandal involving hundreds of students. In 2009, Cincinnati teen Jesse Logan committed suicide after a nude photo she’d sent to a boyfriend was circulated widely around her high school, resulting in harassment from her classmates. Fortunately, networks with large teen audiences -- MTV, for example -- are using their platforms to warn teens against the dangers of sexting. And the website ThatsNotCool.com uses teen-speak to help resist cyber peer pressure. Even the movie Eighth Grade reveals the ambivalence kids feel about the pressure to join the trend. Hopefully, these messages will get through.

Sexting among teens may not be the epidemic parents have been warned about. But despite education efforts and cautionary tales, it’s still, unfortunately, pretty common. While experts differ on statistics, a research report in the June 2019 edition of JAMA Pediatrics found that at least one in four teens receive sexually explicit texts and emails. At least one in seven teens send “sexts.” Why do they do it? To show off, to entice someone, to show interest in someone, or to prove commitment. Or even as a joke. Teens’ developing interest in sex, an impulse to experiment, and apps that make sexting easy -- and acceptable -- create an environment that some teens find irresistible. Though some experts tell parents not to “freak out,” sexting is associated with sexual risks, such as using drugs and alcohol, having more sexual partners, and not using contraception. Another big risk is kids’ personal privacy. As far too many teens have found out, the recipient of these messages is in possession of a highly compromising image or message that can be easily posted on a social networking site or sent to others via email or text. In a technology world where anything can be copied, sent, posted, and seen by huge audiences, there’s no such thing as being able to control information. The intention doesn’t matter -- even if a photo was taken and sent as a token of love, for example, the technology makes it possible for everyone to see your child’s most intimate self. In the hands of teens, when revealing photos are made public, the sexter almost always ends up feeling humiliated. Furthermore, sending sexual images to minors is against the law, and some states have begun prosecuting kids for child pornography or felony obscenity. There have been some high profile cases of sexting. In 2018, a sexting scandal ensnared several Virginia middle school students. In 2015, a Colorado high school was rocked Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

Advice for parents • Don’t wait for an incident to happen to your child or your child’s friend before you talk about the consequences of sexting. Sure, talking about sex or dating with teens can be uncomfortable, but it’s better to have the talk before something happens. • Remind your kids that once an image is sent, it can never be retrieved -- and they will lose control of it. Ask teens how they would feel if their teachers, parents, or the entire school saw the picture, because that happens all the time. • Talk about pressures to send revealing photos. A study by Michigan State University found that many teens are sexually harassed online by their peers. Let teens know that you understand how they can be pushed or dared into sending something. Tell them that no matter how big the social pressure is, the potential social humiliation can be hundreds of times worse. • Teach your children that the buck stops with them. If someone sends them a photo, they should delete it immediately. It’s better to be part of the solution than the problem. • Check out Common Sense Education’s Sexting Handbook at www.commonsense.org. This resource gives families the language and support to take texting and cell phone power back into their own hands. It’s also a great resource for parents who are uncomfortable dealing directly with this issue. 24

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Transfer My Credit Card Debt? Q. I’ve got about $3,000 in credit card debt. Would it be a good idea to transfer the balance from my credit card to another one that has a much lower interest rate?

A. A lower interest rate will help you save a little money in the short-term, but the drawback is it can also make you feel like you’ve addressed your problem with debt when you really haven’t. You’ve got to change the behavior and the mindset that put you in that situation in the first place. I discovered long ago that personal finance is only about 20 percent head knowledge and 80 percent behavior. Emotion is a key element to getting out of debt and staying out of debt. You’ve got to get really mad at debt, the impact it has on your financial life, and attack it with a vengeance. Think about how many times debt has been a negative influence on your life. My guess

is there were many occasions in the past when you could have done great stuff—I’m talking about meaningful, important things— if you hadn’t had to send a bunch of money to those bozos at the credit card company every month. How about this? First, cut up your credit card and close the account. Then, sell some stuff and take a part-time job nights or weekends for just a little while. You could wipe out all your debt in less than a year by doing that and starting to live on a strict, written, monthly budget. If you don’t get mad about it and take a stand against debt, and become determined you’re never going to fall into that trap again, you’re liable to find yourself back in the same situation or worse!

good vehicles for building wealth in the long term, and are there any major drawbacks to these types of services?

A. I’m not saying there’s anything really

Q. What is your opinion on micro investing apps like Acorns and Betterment? Are these

wrong with Acorns or Betterment, but they do different things. Acorns is more of an invest pennies, round-up kind of program, where Betterment is kind of a robo-investing deal. Here’s the thing. Micro investing is going to create micro wealth. And the big downside is you’re going to feel like you did something important. The way you end up with money is by investing money. The way you end up with more money is by investing more money. You can argue all you want that using things like these create extra money. Yeah, but not really. The returns are still micro. An app doesn’t make two dollars turn into twenty dollars. It’s okay to use apps like that. I’m not mad at them, and I don’t think they’re a rip-off or anything like that. What worries me about these kinds of things, in an investing sense, is they give the illusion that you’ve done something significant with your money.

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Micro Investing Apps?

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Does your child throw temper tantrums when things don’t go their way? Does he hit siblings when he is mad? Does she throw toys across the room when she is frustrated? Kids often don’t understand how to appropriately express strong feelings like anger, frustration, or disappointment causing them to act out. This is totally normal and the good is, parents can help kids understand their emotions, express themselves in a healthy way, and even learn to cope with their feelings.

Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

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The biggest obstacle toddlers have when expressing their feelings is the simple fact that they do not have the words to explain what is going on. When your child has worked hard to build a tower of blocks only to have it topple down over and over again, they feel frustrated. Simply stating “You are frustrated with your blocks aren’t you? Can I help?” acknowledges your child’s feelings and give words to identify them in the future. If a sibling took their toy away and they begin to cry, acknowledge that they are sad and come up with a solution together to work it out. In the future, give your child the opportunity to express how they are feeling and listen. This will help them show their feelings through words rather than actions (like hitting or throwing a tantrum). For an older child, ask them what they are feeling and listen to the answer without criticism. If they are having trouble coming up with feelings words to express themselves, give them a couple that you feel may fit the situation. Ask if they feel there is a better way they could handle the situation and talk it out together.

Talk about feelings often

It is important to not only give your child the words to express their own feelings, but to also notice and label the feelings of others. When you arrive home to a dog that greets you at the door and a wagging tail, explain that the dog is excited to see you. If they notice someone crying talk about how they are sad and why. If your child acts out toward someone else, try to explain the feelings involved. “You were mad at your sister and so you told her you didn’t like her anymore, that hurt her feelings and now she feels sad.” Help your child to notice the cues and body language of others and guess their emotions. You can also play a game where you make faces at each other. First make a happy face, then a mad face, then a sad face. As you read books try to guess the feelings of the characters. Parents can also find many books and videos about feelings at their local library

Model appropriate expression

It’s okay for kids to know that parents have feelings of sadness, excitement, frustration, and anger just like they do. During these emotional moments, we can model a positive way of dealing with our feelings to our kids. When a parent gets mad, they have the opportunity to yell or get physical or they can calmly say they need to take a walk and excuse themself until they can cool down. When we are frustrated with a task let kids know what you are feeling and that you have decided to take a break or ask for help. Feelings of sadness are normal and we can show kids it’s okay to feel down once in awhile. Spending time with people we care about, exercising, or doing something we enjoy is a great way to lift a mood.

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Teach appropriate ways to deal with emotions

Once kids can express how they feel with words, we can help them come up with appropriate ways to express their feelings. For some kids this may be simply talking about it. For others they may need extra snuggles or hugs. For another child, having time to be alone to sort out their thoughts and feelings or cool down gives them time they need to process their emotions so they can discuss them. When my daughter gets mad she finds it helpful to go to her room, shut the door and turn up the music. I often hear her singing as she looks at books, plays or even cleans. When she joins us again she is calmer, happier, and able to talk and interact with others calmly. My son prefers to take a walk when he is upset. The exercise and fresh air helps him settle down. Depending on the child, their current emotion, and the situation the coping skills may look very different. As kids begin to learn to express their feelings using words and appropriate coping skills, it is important to give them positive feedback. This will help encourage them to continue to express themselves as they mature. WP Sarah Lyons is a Midwestern mom of six kids, including three year old triplets.

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ParentingToday’sTeens by Mark Gregston

Teens in a Performance Driven Culture We live in a performance driven culture. Remember when baseball and football were sports you played in the empty sandlot at the end of the street? Nowadays, parents spend thousands of dollars to make sure even their middle-school kids have all the right equipment and privatized training to be bigger, faster and stronger. A high school diploma used to be enough to ensure you a decent job. And if you went on to a trade school and learned a skill like welding or mechanics, you were guaranteed a solid career. You can see the effect this performance driven culture has on teens when you step into the world of social media. Hop onto Facebook on a random Thursday, and you see friends and acquaintances reporting on what they’re doing, where they’ve been, who they’re hanging out with and what they know. Teens use photo-sharing apps like Instagram to display pictures of themselves with nice clothes, nice cars, nice vacations, and nice and notable friends. It’s a highly competitive digital world, in which our kids feel the pressure to “perform” as well, or better, than the other kids they see. Of course, moms and dads don’t want this performance attitude to permeate their own relationship with their kids. We don’t want our teens to feel they have to perform in order to win our affection. But sometimes the way we communicate with them says the exact opposite. When our teens exhibit bad behavior or don’t live up to our expectations, we may pull away from them, express our disappointment, or punish them by withholding time or attention. Yet, when our son or daughter excels or accomplishes something noteworthy, we heap praise, tell them how proud we are of them, and how much we care. This almost subconscious reinforcement that achievements bring love, and mistakes bring rejection, further drills into our teens this need to perform. So what are some of the lies our teens are hearing that we need to combat? Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

Performance Driven Lies

In today’s culture, teens are hearing that people will only love them if they perform up to a certain high standard. Approval and accolades will be theirs when they are running on all cylinders. But should there be a drop in their performance, teens believe that others’ affections will correspondingly plummet. It’s one reason guys are conditioned not to show weakness, and to display the bravado of power and strength. It’s one reason young ladies develop eating disorders, or turn into mean girls and try to cut other people down. In a performancedriven world, teens are being conditioned to be tough guys and drama queens. The second lie teens are buying into is that if they make a mistake, no one will love them. It’s what leads many teens to act dishonestly or in secret. They’re worried that if anyone finds out who they really are, or what they’ve done, they’ll lose the relationship. Lastly, the lie of performance-driven culture says that we are valuable in our good years, but not valuable in our bad years. Teens think that if they’re behaving properly they have more worth to parents and family than when they are misbehaving. But I believe in the sanctity of life in all stages. An unborn baby is just as valuable and worthy of love as that bratty 14-year-old or that Rhodes Scholar student! With so many lies, untruths and misrepresentations flying around, how can we combat these performance-driven myths? Let me share a few options.

Relationally Driven Truth Communicate love in various ways when your teen does something bad. This is not a recommendation to gloss over the mistake, or forgo the due consequences. But in the midst of the punishment, verbalize your love to your child. Let him know that his behavior doesn’t negate your relationship with him. Give her a hug. Share an encouraging word. Be creative 28

about how you relay your care and compassion, even when they blow it. Also, allow your teen to make mistakes without shaming him or her. I’m sure you’ve seen or read articles about parents punishing their children by having them hold signs proclaiming their guilt in front of busy streets, or posting pictures and humiliating them on social media. I understand the motivation behind those methods, but shaming kids is never a good solution. All it does is reinforce their own insecurity and push them deeper into performance-driven behavior. When our toddler falls off their tricycle, we don’t run up and point and let them know what a stupid mistake it was to keel over. No, as parents we come alongside, brush the child off, and put them back on the bike. We have to treat our teens the same way. We brush them off and encourage them to keep going and try again. Also,it can help for teens to hear about mom and dad’s mistakes. I know it might be uncomfortable, but those stories let teens know that if mom and dad made mistakes, and still turned out all right, then maybe they don’t have to be perfect either. Let your kids have their own opinions. You don’t have to be correcting your teen 24/7. Let some discussions simply be about communicating. There may be times when you have to share the truth with your kids, but most of the time conversations should revolve around getting to know your teen as a person. Ask them what they enjoy, and why they enjoy it. Don’t tear them down. They are already facing pressure to like the “right” things from all of their peers; home should be a safe place for them to be who they are. Lastly, affirm your teen’s value regularly. Let your child know they have intrinsic worth. Show your kids that you appreciate them for who they are, and you’ll destroy that performance-driven mentality and foster a healthy teenager. Mark Gregston is an author, speaker, radio host, and the founder of a residential counseling center for struggling teens located in Longview, Texas. Mark’s passion for helping teens can be seen in his 40 years of involvement with families as a youth pastor, Young Life area director, and now, as the Executive Director of Heartlight, where he has lived with and helped over 2,700 teens. To find out more about Mark and his ministry to parents and teens, you can visit www.HeartlightMinistries.org or www.ParentingTodaysTeens.org.

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Maybe you grew up carving Jack-o-lanterns and you want your kids to follow in your footsteps. Who could blame you? Carving pumpkins is a gooey-messy-blast for the whole family. For many of us, it’s a time-honored tradition. But exploring other options isn’t about turning pumpkin-carving into a Pinterest-perfect art form it’s about having fun decorating in a variety of ways. Why not try mixing things up this year?

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Select pumpkin color and size according to taste and embellish away! You’ll be amazed at how many looks a simple pumpkin can pull off. For best results, choose a pumpkin with a smooth, unblemished surface. Wash your pumpkin gently with mild soap and water and allow it to dry overnight before you begin decorating. Most of these looks work best for medium-sized to smallish pumpkins.

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1. Polk-a-dots Galore. Give very young children a pumpkin and a pile of sticky felt circles. Show them how to adhere them to their pumpkin, and they will be happily entertained for quite some time. Polk-a-dots are the simplest approach for the youngest in your clan, but you can also create a more traditional look using black felt shapes on an orange pumpkin.

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2. The Glittering Globe. Coat

pumpkin in a layer of Mod Podge or white glue, then sprinkle entire pumpkin with glitter. Or mix a few glitters in advance for a multi-color look. If you want to do a variety of colors, coat only a portion of the pumpkin, then sprinkle glitter over just that portion. Catch extra glitter on newspaper and pour it back into container. Let sections dry between applications of new colors for best results.

3. The Painted Lady. If you want your painted pumpkin to last, coat it with a layer of varnish or sealer first in a well-ventilated area. Flip pumpkin over onto a bowl or jar while you paint the bottoms first. When dry, flip it over to paint the rest. Apply a couple of coats of acrylic paint. Chalkboard paint works well on pumpkins. Apply another coat of varnish to painted pumpkins for longest-lasting results. Leave chalkboard painted pumpkins unvarnished. 4. The Glitter-paint Combo. If you want to mix things up a bit, follow instructions for painting your pumpkin. Then, when completely dry, apply glitter to the pumpkin stem only. Or use blue painter’s tape to create designs on pumpkin. Then apply glue and glitter for added sparkle. 5. All Wrapped Up. Turn your pumpkin into a spider web by wrapping it randomly all over with thick white twine. Then hot glue a large black spider onto the web to finish the look. For a mummified look, cut cheesecloth into long, wide strips. Fold strips to double thickness and spray with fabric stiffener. When dry, wrap strips around pumpkin, leaving top and bottom clean. Secure strips with hot glue. Hot glue googly eyes and wrap with a few more strips so eyes are peeking out. Cut away a thin mouth and dab inside with black paint. When dry, coat fabric with glow-in-the-dark craft paint.

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7. The Drippy Look. Spread out

Teens and up who enjoy drawing will relish the opportunity to create temporary works of art on pumpkins using Sharpie markers. Supply them with a rainbow of colors or an array of black markers in various thicknesses. Sharpie art using black and colored markers works especially well on white pumpkins. And black markers of various thicknesses look great on orange pumpkins. Varnish afterwards for a longer-lasting work of art.

newspaper or brown bags to catch any excess. Unwrap crayons in assorted colors. You can either do a spectrum of colors or mix things up. Consider autumn colors on an orange pumpkin or ghoulish colors on a white pumpkin. Glue down crayons (just the top half) with points facing out and tipped slightly down around the pumpkin stem with a thick white nonflammable glue. Let dry. Set hair dryer to high and work your way around the crayons one at a time until they are melted to your satisfaction.

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8. The Collaged Gourd.

Mod Podge works well for applying paper or fabric to pumpkins. Paint the stems ahead of collaging, if you want a more polished look. Then choose tissue paper, old book pages, hand-made paper, printed paper napkins, or fabric quilting scraps for best results. Cut material into squares or strips. When using strips, cut the ends into points so they will smooth easily. Apply a layer of Mod Podge under and over material. Smooth materials with fingers as you go. Add embellishments like ribbon on dried pumpkin as you wish.

9. Bling-kin.

Paint pumpkin with two coats of paint. Then, starting at the stem, work your way down the sides of the pumpkin with gem stickers. Create an evenly spaced over-all pattern or a dripping-with-gems look. Combine gems with an adhesive letter sticker, if you like, for a monogrammed look. Leave gems off the bottom so pumpkin stands flat.

10. Stamp-a-pumpkin.

If you wish to change the color of your pumpkin, paint your pumpkin first, as described above. You can also paint your stem, if you like. To achieve a stamped look on your pumpkin, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t try to stamp directly on the surface. Instead, take white tissue paper and stamp it using archival quality ink with the image or images of your choice. Allow ink to dry thoroughly and then Mod Podge your tissue carefully to your pumpkin. Add additional collage elements to the top and bottom of the pumpkin to frame your stamp, if you like. Try using matching tissue paper or napkins around the top or bottom of pumpkin for a complimentary look. WP Author, journalist and writing coach, Christina Katz is looking forward to turning her front porch into a gallery of pumpkin art with the help of the whole family.

Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

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MPAA Rating: PG Overall: AViolence: B Sexual Content: B Profanity: AAlcohol / Drug Use: C+ It’s 1927 and Downton Abbey is about to enjoy a great honor – a visit from King George V and Queen Mary. Robert Crawley, Earl of Grantham (Hugh Bonneville) and his American-born wife Cora (Elizabeth McGovern) bring the family together to prepare for the royal visit. And their loyal staff determine to do their best to uphold the Abbey’s finest traditions. The monarch’s trip to Yorkshire makes for a thin plot, but it provides a good background for the many subplots that swirl through the film. Over the film’s somewhat bloated two hour runtime, audiences will get answers to numerous questions, large and small. Frankly, none of the questions leave the audience in suspense for long – if at all. There are, after all, only two questions that matter. First, will fans of the TV show like it? And, second, can the movie be enjoyed by those of us who don’t have years of exposure to the characters? The answer to the first question is definitely in the affirmative. Downton Abbey is a chance for fans to sit back, watch their favorite characters on the big screen, gaze wistfully at the glorious costumes, and laugh out loud at the Dowager Countess’s acerbic one-liners. The second question can also be answered positively. I am not a Downton fan, but I managed to enjoy the film’s quasi-historical escape with lovely period detail, a relaxing story, and only minor content issues. Downton Abbey is the cinematic equivalent of an English high tea. It isn’t terribly filling, but it looks lovely, tastes delicious is a pleasant way to spend a couple of hours.

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: A Sexual Content: AProfanity: D+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C It’s 1968 and Judy Garland (Renee Zellweger), now 46 years old, has wandered far from the yellow brick road that took her to Oz and global fame. Her options are dwindling and she realizes that she needs to make drastic decisions if she wants to win a custody battle and keep her children. She reluctantly accepts an offer to perform in London for a few months, hoping to make enough money to provide stability for her family. Judy is a moving biopic of a woman struggling to find a way to care for her children while battling the demons of her own early years. Judy Garland had a painful life, starting with her childhood stardom in The Wizard of Oz and a studio environment which was often toxic for young performers. Belittled for her appearance and weight, constantly threatened with firing, and fed a steady diet of pills, Judy Garland didn’t get to be Dorothy without giving up nearly everything else. Despite Judy Garland’s tumultuous life, parental concerns are reasonably limited. There is plenty of drinking, smoking, and abuse of prescription drugs, but this is shown in a negative light. There is less profanity than I expected, with most conversations devoid of objectionable language. There are nine swear words overall, with two sexual expletives. For all the glitz and glamour around its star, this film is quite dark. Zellweger does a good job of balancing Garland’s sense of humor and strong personality with the seemingly endless personal tragedy, but you’d still be well advised to come to the theatre with some tissues.

The Peanut Butter Falcon

This Changes Everything

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B+ Violence: BSexual Content: B+ Profanity: DAlcohol / Drug Use: D The Peanut Butter Falcon is a perplexing movie. Is it a heartwarming Huck Finn tale of two renegades on the run, figuring out if they’re the good guys or bad guys in their own stories? Or is it a modern attempt to tackle how we relate to, communicate with, and treat people with disabilities? I think the response is subjective – and you’ll need to decide for yourself. Zak (Zack Gottsagen) is a twenty-two year old man with Down Syndrome. He has no family and has been warehoused in a nursing home because the state lacks an appropriate facility. Not surprisingly, Zak decides to escape and pursue his dream of becoming a pro wrestler. He’s even picked his own stage name - The Peanut Butter Falcon. Tyler (Shia LaBeouf) is a crab fisherman who steals other fishermen’s catches. This is risky and, having been trapped in a sticky position, he commits an unplanned act of arson, putting him on the run from the law. When Tyler and Zak cross paths, they pair up as they try to avoid their pursuers on their journey towards freedom. Thankfully this rich relationship is supported by excellent performances by the lead actors, particularly Zack Gottsagen’s. Having a person with Down Syndrome actually portrayed by an actor with Down Syndrome makes the film more authentic. The most difficult part of going to see this film is watching people mistreat and abuse Zak. The sheer cruelty was enough to make me recoil in empathetic pain and disgust – and parents will want to keep this in mind as they consider this movie for family viewing.

MPAA Rating: Unrated Overall: B+ Violence: B Sexual Content: B Profanity: C Alcohol / Drug Use: B “Media has the power to educate; to shape people’s thoughts. It also has an incredible power when you see someone like you on screen.” So says Shonda Rhimes, successful screenwriter, when discussing the problems of gender disparity in the entertainment industry. Fifty-one percent of the population is female, but for the past 80 years, there have been three times as many male actors on the big screen as there have been female actors. And the male actors have two-thirds of the speaking parts. How extensive is the problem of female under-representation in Hollywood and what effect does it have on the people who consume the media? These are some of the questions tackled in the documentary, This Changes Everything. Drawing on interviews with highly successful women in the industry – Meryl Streep, Jessica Chastain, Reese Witherspoon, Sandra Oh, Shonda Rhimes – director Tom Donahue delves into issues like sexual harassment, objectification, the camera’s male gaze, gender stereotypes, and male-centered stories. This Changes Everything is a solid documentary with interesting anecdotes and a solid grasp of the facts, however it isn’t for everyone. Kids will likely be bored with it but older teens and adults who are interested in learning about and discussing topics related to entertainment, gender, diversity, discrimination, and similar topics will find it challenging or even changing their perspectives on the media they consume. 33

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Arts & Crafts Pints & Paints: Nightmare at the Brewery

October 3 Folklore Brewing & Meadery,

153 Mary Lou Lane Dothan, AL 36301 Join us creating with some cold beers! All supplies included and no experience necessary! Ages 21 and up. Time 6:00-9:00 p.m. Cost: $35

Toddler Tales: Too Many Pumpkins October 5 All About Art, 100 S. Main St.

Enterprise, AL 36330 Designed to be a family experience, with story time and a related art project for toddlers and their care givers. Light toddler friendly refreshments will be provided. $20/child. Time 10-11 a.m.

Mummy Glow Jars

October 11 Ashford Library, 305 6th Ave. Ashford, AL 36312 Come make your very own glow-in-the-dark mummy jars. All supplies are provided free of charge. Registration is required. Time 3:304 p.m.

Cookies and Canvas: Meow at the Moon

Paint Party for Operation Christmas Child

October 12 All About Art, 100 S. Main St.

Enterprise, AL 36330 Ages 17 and under. Designed to be a family experience, however, kids 10 and up may be signed up to participate independently. Refreshments served as a part of the creative experience. Sign up in store, online, or by phone. Time 1-3 p.m.

Kids Club

Mummy Glow Jars

(334) 671-8401 michaels.com

Book Character Pumpkin Contest October 7-28 Dothan-Houston Co. Library,

Turn a real or fake pumpkin into your favorite story or book character using paint, markers, cloth, glue, construction paper, etc. Do not carve or puncture your pumpkin in any way. Pumpkins can be turned into any library location Winners will be announced October 30th. (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Wine Down with Art: Just a Bunch of Hocus Pocus

October 10 & 12 All About Art, 100 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Bring your own beverages and refreshments and we will provide everything else. Cost: $30. Ages 18 and up. (334) 348-2738 www.AllAboutArtStudio.com

Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

(334) 348-2738 www.AllAboutArtStudio.com

Michaels, 4601 Montgomery Hwy., Suite 400 Dothan, AL 36303 Ages 3 & up. Limited seats. 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

November 2 All About Art, 100 S. Main St.

(334) 899-3121 www.dhcls.org

(334) 348-2738 www.AllAboutArtStudio.com

October 5: Abstract Paper Pumpkins October 12: Pumpkin Cookies October 19: Pencil Monsters October 26: Halloween Frame

Toddler Tales: Turkey Trouble

October 12 Dothan-Houston Co. Library -

Westgate, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL 36303 Come make your very own glow-in-the-dark mummy jars. All supplies are provided free of charge. Registration is required. Time 4-4:30 p.m.

(334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org

Paint Party

October 17 Cottonwood Senior Center,

1336 Metcalf St. Cottonwood, AL 36320 Choose from either the Christmas Ornament or Vintage Truck with Pumpkins and let’s sling some paint and have a little fun! Cost: $45. All materials included. Refreshments provided. All Proceeds benefit the Cottonwood Senior Center.

(334) 691-3491

Friends of the Library Make and Take: Paper Pumpkins October 24 Dothan-Houston Co. Library -

Westgate, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL 36303 If you would like to learn how to make a few crafts and don’t mind making one for us for our FOL sales then come on down to the library and lets get crafty! All materials will be provided. Please register so we have enough prepared when necessary.

(334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org

November 12 Rehobeth Baptist Church,

4444 State Hwy. 605 Rehobeth, AL 36301 For $40 you will enjoy an evening with some amazing women, creating a beautiful holiday door hangar of your choice, snacking on the best snacks and helping raise money for the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox shipping costs! RSVP by Oct. 27. (334) 677-5893

Church Events Enterprise FUMC Fall Fest ad on page 21 October 27 Enterprise First United Methodist

Church, 217 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Celebrate the Fall season with a fun-filled afternoon of Trunk or Treat, Fall Games, Candy, Costume Contest, Hay and Pony Rides, Face Painting and More. There will also be a silent auction to benefit “Meals of Hope” to help feed people locally. Time 4:00-6:00 p.m.

(334) 347-3467 children@efumc.com www.efumc.com

Mt. Zion Baptist Church Fall Festival October 27 Generation Ridge,

654 Huey Faulk Rd. Ariton, AL 36311 A night of fun, fellowship, and dinner. The night will include a band, guest speaker, message, dinner, bonfire, hay rides, games, cake walk, chilli cookoff, and much more. Admission is one CANNED food item per person. All donations will go to Dale Baptist Association Food Pantry.

www.wiregrassparents.com

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19th Annual Pumpkin Patch

October First United Methodist Church,

1380 W. Main St. Dothan, AL 36301 The annual fundraiser raises money for youth mission trips. Patch Hours are Monday through Friday 10:00am-6:00pm , Saturdays 9:00am7:00pm and Sundays 2:00pm-6:00pm until October 31st. (334) 793-3555 www.fumcdothan.org

Fall Festivals/Carnivals Landmark Park Benefit Car Show

ad on page 17 October 5 Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr.

Dothan, AL 36303 Enjoy the cooler weather while viewing the large display of antique cars, ranging in age from “T” Models to sporty custom classics. Time 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Cost: $5 for adults, $3 for kids, free for members, $10 to register a car

(334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Fall Farm Day

ad on page 17 October 19 Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr.

Dothan, AL 36303 Come and watch how peanuts were harvested in the Wiregrass nearly 100 years ago. Enjoy the sights, sounds and sweet smells of cane grinding, syrup making, butter churning, soap making and other traditional farm activities. Other activities include music, antique tractors, wagon rides and the largest quilt display in the Wiregrass region. Time 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. Admission: $8 Adults; $6 Seniors/Military; $4 Kids (ages 3-12); FREE for park members

(334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Landmark Park Quit Show

ad on page 17 October 18-20 Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr.

Dothan, AL 36303 Theme: 200 Years of Alabama Quilts. Held in conjunction with the park’s annual Fall Farm Day, this quilt show features over 100 antique and contemporary quilts displayed inside the Stokes Activity Barn. This juried show includes exhibits, door prizes, speakers and more. The Quilt Show is an official AL200 Event, celebrating Alabama’s Bicentennial. Time 1:00-4:00 p.m. (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Foster Fest

October 4 Downtown, Dothan, AL 36303

Grab your costume and head to the last Foster Fest of 2019. Halloween Costume Contest for the kids with great prizes. Live music, vendors, cars, bikes and jeeps, and other special performances. It’s going to be a THRILLER! Time 6-10 p.m.

(334) 699-8118 jessica@dothandowntown.org www.downtowndothan.org

Claybank Jamboree

October 5 Downtown, Ozark, AL 36360

Family Friendly Festival: Arts & Crafts Vendors, Variety of Food Vendors, Live Entertainment, Children’s Activities & MUCH MORE!

(334) 774-9321 director@ozarkalchamber.com www.ozarkchamber.com

The Georgia Trust Eufaula and Cuthbert Fall Ramble October 11-13 Eufaula, AL

Enjoy a rare opportunity to explore private historic

homes and buildings that are not usually open to the public in Eufaula, AL and Cuthbert, GA. Guests will also enjoy catered meals from some of the area’s top restaurants and caterers. (404) 881-9980 www.georgiatrust.org

Calamity Creek Fall Festival October 12 Calamity Creek, 229 Eddie

Ward Rd. Samson, AL 36477 Fall festival, corn maze, pumpkin patch, many vendor’s, food,costume contest, bake off, pumpkin decorating contest, inflatables and so much more.

(334) 360-3649

Headland Harvest Day

October 12 Downtown Square,

Headland, AL 36345 A tribute to local farmers and the harvest season. Includes a classic car show, children’s games and rides, arts and crafts, food vendors and live entertainment throughout the day.

(334) 693-3303 headlandALchamber@gmail.com www.headlandal.com

Kolomoki Festival

October 12 Kolomoki Mounds State Park,

205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA 39823 Join us in the day use area for a day full of fun and entertainment. Live music, Native American demonstrators, food vendors and crafts for the whole family. Watch the tractor parade or enjoy the bounce house. Fun for the whole family!

(229) 724-2150

plants, furniture, home decor, jewelry and free activities for the kids. Demonstrations and exhibits for all ages. Live music and performances. Time 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m.

(334) 344-0643 www.piddle.org

Scarecrow Festival

October 26 Culpepper Fields, Daleville, AL 36322 Family Fun. Games. Time 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Ozark Fall Festival

October 27 225 Apple Circle, Ozark, AL 36360 Pumpkin decorating, food, face painting, candy, and more. Presented by Ta-SETI Court UD of the Daughters of the Imperial Court, Oasis of Dothan and the Emerald City Dazzlers. Donation: one canned food item to donate to local food bank. (334) 432-4610 or (334) 421-9293

EufaulaFest

October 12-13 Randolph Ave. Eufaula, AL

41st annual arts and crafts festival.

Boll Weevil Fall Festival

October 19 Downtown, Enterprise, AL 36330

Explore our amazing retail shops and restaurants or visit one of the many vendors lined up and down Main and College Street. Costume contest for kids up to 12, live music, entertainment from local performers, kids activities and more!

(334) 347-0581

National Peanut Festival

November 1-10 National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy. 231 South Dothan, AL 36301 Gates to the 76th annual National Peanut Festival open Friday, November 1st. The week-long festival features carnival rides, the popular Calf Scramble and Greased Pig, Dream Big Food Drive, musical entertainment, Demolition Derby, and NPF Parade. (334) 793-4323 info@nationalpeanutfestival.com www.nationalpeanutfestival.com

Jackson County Farm City Festival

Pumpkin Day

October 19 Enterprise Farmers Market,

525 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Farmers will have fresh produce, and arts and crafts vendors will be set up for your shopping pleasure. Pumpkin painting, pumpkin recipe/ cooking demo, and pumpkin carving contest.

(334) 348-2310 kkirkland@enterpriseal.gov www.enterpriseal.gov/farmers-market

Taylor Made Festival

October 19 Walking Trail Park, Taylor, AL 36303 Family friendly free arts and crafts festival. Activities include a 5K and Color Run, “Washer Chunkin,” Cornhole, and Junior Build a Better Burger competitions. Old Town Wild West Show, Inflatables and Dunking Booth. Live music. Day ends with fireworks.

Fall Festival for Special Needs October 26

1566 Andrews Ave. Ozark, AL 36360 There will be trunk-or-treating, games, food, and more! Sensory friendly and designed with those with disabilities in mind. Time 5:00-8:00 p.m. (334) 477-4686

Peanut Butter Festival

October 26 Brundidge, AL 36010

Handmade arts, crafts, great food, produce,

November 1-2 3631 Hwy. 90 West Marianna, FL 32446 Lawn mower pulls, tractor pulls, arts and crafts vendors, food vendors, things for kids, pioneer activities like grits milling, iron fording, and lots more. (850) 482-8060

Native American Powwow

November 1-3 Culpepper Park, Daleville, AL 36322 Learn about Native American culture and history through demonstrations of tribal traditional & contemporary dances, exhibition & social dances, drumming, flute music and storytelling.

dakotawacipi@yahoo.com

Farms/Pumpkin Patches Paradise Pumpkin Patch ad on page 13

894 C.R. 79 South Eufaula, AL 36027 Each Fall, we transform the farm into Paradise Pumpkin Patch & Farm Festival, providing attractions and activities to delight kids from two to ninety-two. Work a cane mill. Try out old hand water pumps. Listen to a working windmill and browse the barn filled with antique farm equipment, animals and tack. Hop aboard a tractorpulled hayride that will take you to the corn maze, pumpkin patch, and cotton field. Admis-

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

sion is $12.50, children under 2 are free, and Seniors (65+) are $10. (334) 695-2258 hawkinsridge@earthlink.net www.paradisepumpkinpatch.com

Todd Farms

Open Yearround 19326 Hwy 431 South

Headland, AL 36345 Working sugar cane farm, restaurant, gift shop and museum dedicated to 19th and 20th century farming. Delicious homemade food and desserts, jams, jellies, preserves, sauces, relishes and pickles.

(334) 693-2004 Dewey@toddfarms.com www.toddfarms.com

Aplin Farms

September 28-November 1

2729 N County Road 49 Dothan, AL 36305 Pick your own pumpkin and explore the two corn mazes at this u-pick farm just outside of Slocomb. Other features include the animal barn, inflatable park, wagon rides, and sunflower fields. (334) 726-5104 japlin4863@gmail.com

Corndodgers Farm

September 28-October 27

1555 Knowles Rd. Headland, AL 36345 Enjoy the taste of fall with over 24 attractions included with admission ($14 INCLUDING tax). Lots of yummy food available-chicken tenders, The Boss Hawg, kettle corn, boiled peanuts, snow cones, and more! Check out the 7 acre corn maze in our very own “Field of Dreams”!

Still Pond Vineyard, Winery & Distillery

1575 Still Pond Rd. Arlington, GA 39813 Tour the winery and processing facility and stroll through the vineyards. Complimentary tasting of 18 award-winning wines. (229) 792-6382 charlie@stillpond.com www.stillpond.com

Food Hogwarts Mystery Express

October 5 & 19 Black Cat Bakeshop & Kitchen, 123 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Come taste our Arachnid Meatballs And Mash or nosh on Harry’s Cottage Pie served with Gillyweed Salad and Pumpkin Pasties. Alternative Childs or Particular Eaters Plates available with prior notice. We will be magically learning to whip up some Butterbeer, Chocolate Frogs, And Cauldron Cakes while we await our dinner. Time 7:00-9:30 p.m. (334) 475-4600

Ministry of Magic Murder Mystery Dinner

October 12 Black Cat Bakeshop & Kitchen,

123 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Your presence is requested, there is a mystery to be solved! Time is of the essence and silence is essential. BYOB. Not recommended for young children. Tickets: $35

(334) 726-1485 amanda@corndodgersfarm.com www.corndodgersfarm.com

(334) 475-4600

Butter and Egg Adventures

October 24 National Peanut Festival Fair-

Septemer 29-October 27

2127 Butter and Egg Rd. Troy, AL 36081 Visit more than 12 cities in this year’s United States maze. Special events including Flashlight nights and Zombies in the Maze.

(334) 670-9954 ron@butterandeggadventures.com www.butterandeggadventures.com

Fall Days Corn Maze

Weekends starting October 5

Billy Brock Farms, 1788 White Rd Bonifay, FL 32425 Corn Maze. Hayrides. Inflatables. Obstacle Course. Bounce House. Petting Zoo. Halloweenthemed Events October 26, 27 & 31. Group discounts available. (850) 326-1500 falldayscornmaze@gmail.com

Backyard Orchards

6585 Hwy. 431 North Eufaula, AL 36027 Take a wagon ride to the maze, sunflower, cotton, and pumpkin patch. The kids will enjoy playing in our cotton seed wagon and corn bins plus lots more! 2 and under are free. Admission includes one pumpkin per person! $10 per person. (334) 695-5875 backyardorchards@hotmail.com www.backyardorchards.com

Calamity Creek

229 Eddie Ward Rd. Samson, AL 36477 Small hobby farm located in south Alabama, you can purchase door wreaths, candles, soaps, cookie and brownie mixes as well as seasonal baked goods, jellies, jams and so much more. (334) 360-3649

Maria’s Vineyard

3940 Fortner St. Dothan, AL 36305 U-pick Muscadine vineyard. Rose gardens and jasmine-covered arbors create a unique event venue. (334) 791-2514 veronicaphilpot77@gmail.com www.mariasvineyard.com

Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

zombies around the property. (334) 475-3058

Columbia Manor Haunted House Weekends in October plus October 30-31

Columbia Manor, 306 S. Main St. Columbia, AL 36319 Travel back in time as former residents return from the afterlife accompanied by some familiar friends as you tour through their past abode known now as COLUMBIA MANOR. General Admission $13; Fast Pass $30 (334) 790-3335 www.columbiamanor.com

Creepy Hollow

October 3-5,10-12,17-19, 24-26, 28-31

Broken Horn Ranch and Town 102 Fairview Rd. Marianna, FL 32446 Come take a hayride tour through Creepy Hollow, check out Camp Crystal Lake and see whom might be hanging around. We have over 2 acres of haunted forest and a complete haunted ghost town So come on out to Creepy Hollow and have a scary good time. Tickets: $10 (850) 557-1087 brokenhorntown.wixsite.com/bhrt

Haunted Hayride October 19, 25, 31

8977 State Hwy. 27 Newville, AL 36353 Are you brave enough to ride through the haunted woods on our hayride? Also: Trick-or-Treating, Petting Zoo, Pony Rides, Baby Animal Encounter, Games, Face Painting. (334) 441-8748

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(334) 793-4323 www.nationalpeanutfestival.com

Miscellaneous

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NPF Recipe Contest

Little Miss National Peanut Festival

NPF Cake Decorating Contest

grounds, 5622 Hwy. 231 South Dothan, AL 36301 This year’s theme is: “The Ultimate Roadside Attraction.” First place winners in each class will compete for cash prizes and Best of Show.

October 24 National Peanut Festival Fair-

grounds, 5622 Hwy. 231 South Dothan, AL 36301 Share your best peanut recipes for a chance to win up to $100. Divisions: Cakes, Candies, Cookies/Bars, Pies, Cupcakes/Cakepops, and Miscellaneous. Open to Adults (age 18+) and Students (under 18). Winners will ride in the NPF parade.

(334) 793-4323 www.nationalpeanutfestival.com

Pumpkin Pie Story Time October 24

Ashford Library, 305 6th Ave. Ashford, AL 36312 Learn all about pumpkins and make your very own pumpkin pie! Registration is not required, but space is limited. Parents- If your child has a food allergy, please let us know. Time 3:30-4:00 p.m. (334) 899-3121 www.dhcls.org

Pumpkin Pie Story Time

November 14 Dothan-Houston Co. Library Westgate, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL 36303 Learn all about pumpkins and make your very own pumpkin pie! Registration is not required, but space is limited. Parents- If your child has a food allergy, please let us know. Time 4:00-4:30 p.m. (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org

Frightmares

250 S. Foster St. Dothan, AL 36301 Thursdays-Saturdays in October, plus Halloween.

October 12 Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 5:00 p.m.

(334) 615-3170 www.nationalpeanutfestival.com

Webb Paranormal Group: Where the Historical & the Paranormal Meet & Greet

October 14 Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main,

445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL 36303 Come meet local and regional historians and Paranormal investigators, ask questions, hear the history of Dothan and the Wiregrass Area, learn about the tools of the trade and check out their presentations. Some information may be frightening or upsetting to smaller children.

Creepy Critters

October 17 Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main,

445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL 36303 Creepy Critters focuses on those less cuddly and icky creatures whose importance is often taken for granted. This program features arachnids, insects, and snakes to illustrate that such undesirable critters serve an extremely important purpose to the environment.

(334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Zombie Hunt

Miss National Peanut Festival

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(334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org

Haunted House/Trail Fridays & Saturdays in October

October 18-19 Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 Friday 6:00 p.m. & Saturday 4:00 p.m.

(334) 615-3170 www.nationalpeanutfestival.com

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NPF Cubmobile Derby October 19 Dothan, AL

Open to boys & girls ages 8-12. Register at Doug Tew Community Centerby October 11. Entry fee:$25. For those purchasing new wheels & axles, entry fee will be $45. Trophies and awards go to the top 3 finishers. A parent/guardian or adult is expected to help in the construction of the car.

(334) 615-3700 mbarefield@dothan.org www. nationalpeanutfestival.com

Music Dothan Ballroom Dance Club Vampire Ball October 5 Cultural Arts Center,

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909 S. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36301 You’re invited to a fang-tastic blood bash. Cash bar. Bring some bites to share. Dress to kill. Music by the Edd Jones Orchestra. Time 7:00-10:00 p.m. Cost: $10 Guests, Members Free

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October 19 Featured Players Cabaret,

3178 Hartford Hwy. Dothan, AL 36305 Break out the best of your many wonderful costumes and come sing with us! 19 to enter, 21 to drink, no cover.

Fall Break Stem Camp

October 24-25 Axtion Air Jump & Sports

3525 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36303 Jam packed with science experiments, feats of engineering greatness, and mathematical explorations, all centered around the science of bounce! Cost: $35 per day. Includes lunch, drinks and snack. Open to 1st-7th grade.

Titans of Talent Scaraoke Contest 2019

October 31 Center Stage Alabama,

11295 Hwy. 231 South Dothan, AL 36301 Halloween-themed karaoke competition. 20 singers will compete for $5,000 in Grand Prizes. Contestants must wear a costume and be 19 to enter. Free admission to the public.

team@thecrossingbigcreek.com

Fall Choral & Theatre Festival

November 4-6 Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36301 A premiere competition and festival celebrating music and theatre. Students from Alabama, Florida, and Georgia perform in choral and showchoir settings. Events include solos, monologues, and scenes presented to a panel of qualified judges. Performances are open to the general public. Deadline to Register: October 4 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Outdoor Northwest Florida Championship Rodeo October 3-5

Memorial Field, Veterans Blvd. Bonifay, FL 32425 Bucks, broncos and bucaroos! Free kids activities each night. Bareback and saddle back riding, steer wrestling, team roping, and bull riding. www.bonifayrodeo.com

Youth Fishing Day

October 5 Eastgate Park,

1949 Sanitary Dairy Rd. Ashford, AL 36312 Hands-on fishing event for boys and girls ages 5-12. Each child must be accompanied by an adult.

The pond will be stocked with catfish and participants will need to bring tackle (fishing pole or rod and reel), bait, and stringer. Door prize drawings will be held at various times during the event.

(334) 615-4743

Zombie Fun Run

October 5 Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr.

Dothan, AL 36303 All funds raised go to support the training required for Law Enforcement Officers, Fire/Rescue, Dispatchers, & Correction Officers to provide needed peer support to their peers in Alabama. Cost: $30 per runner

(334) 714-7293 alleaps.org/zombie-run/

Taylor Made Festival Disc Golf Championship

October 12 Taylor Walking Trail & Playground,

1469 Hwy. 605 South Taylor, AL 36301 One day, two round, non-sanctioned tournament on a modified 14 hole Taylor Disc Golf Course. The entire amount of entry fees will be paid back out in cash and there are no player’s packs. Every person that enters will have an opportunity to win money, no matter your skill level.

Alabama Garden Challenge: Edible Fall Decor October 19

Alabama garden enthusiasts, let your creativity flow! Use an edible plant(s) as your main focal decoration for fall. The plant location can be anywhere on your property. Winner will be selected October 26th.

Facebook: @bellanaturalla

Farmer for a Day

October 26 & November 16 MightySewalls6

Farms, 38 County Rd. 435 Kinston, AL 36453 Have you ever wanted to know what it’s like to work on a farm? Come on out and prepare to get dirty as you help with morning chores. Pull up your boots, roll up your sleeves and head on over, there is always something going on at the farm.

(609) 556-4223 mightysewalls6farms@gmail.com

Booger Brown Cattle Drive

November 6-10 5519 S. State Hwy. 87 Samson, AL 36477 Come set up camp on an authentic roundup and cattledrive! Enjoy primitive camping, chuck wagon cuisine, live music, bronc riding, pasture roping, and much more! RVs and horse trailers welcome. www.boogerbrownalabama.com

Court Square Scarecrows

Henry Co. Courthouse, Abbeville, AL 36310 You can get in the spirit by participating in Abbeville’s annual Court Square Scarecrows. Businesses, organizations, families and individuals are invited to design and display scarecrows on the Court Square Lawn beginning October 8th, 2018 Participants must register their entries with the Abbeville Chamber of Commerce. (334) 585-2273 www.abbevillealchamber.com

Scarecrow/Fall Decor Contest

Daleville, AL 36322 Prize for best scarecrow ($50 cash) AND best overall Fall decorations($75 cash). Judging begins October 22. Winner announced at Scarecrow Festival in Culpepper Park on October 26. (334) 598-6331

School Events Cane Grinding Day

ad on page 17 October 18 Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr.

Dothan, AL 36303 This day is designed for school children to have the opportunity to step back in time and experience farm life in the early 1900s. Along with many handson activities, your class will follow the complete process of syrup-making. Beginning with stripping and chopping the sugar cane, students will learn how the cane was ground down into juice and then the juice cooked into syrup. Students will have the chance to taste the fruit of their labors with biscuits and syrup from our Waddell House kitchen. Several other demonstrations will also be on the farm, including blacksmithing, quilting, butter churning, chair caning, and many more! No minimum number of students required for this program.

(334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Harvest Heydays

ad on page 17 October 22-24, 29-31 2019 Landmark Park,

430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL 36303 Your class will enjoy an educational program full of fall harvest fun at Harvest Heydays! This event centers on a visit to the pumpkin patch where each child will take home their very own pumpkin. We will also have many other fall-related educational activities such as corn pulling and shucking, cotton picking, peanut stacking, and hayrides. We will also have the Kernels of Fun area (a huge box filled with corn kernels) which will give your students the opportunity to enjoy corn in a whole new way. (Some activities are based on crop availability). No minimum number of students required for this program.

Scarecrows

(334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Scarecrows in the Gardens

Living History

October 1-31 Dothan Area Botanical Gardens,

5130 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL 36303 Join us for the 15th Annual Scarecrows in the Gardens during the month of October. This year’s theme is “Classic Movies & TV!”. (334) 793-3224 www.dabg.com

Scarecrows in the Park

October 1-November 30 Frank Jackson State

Park, 100 Jerry Adams Dr. Opp, AL 36467 Over 300 scarecrows are spread along approximately 3-miles of walking trails. The scarecrows are creatively made by various individuals, businesses, churches, and school groups. Golf cart tours available. Time 7:00 a.m.-sunset.

(334) 493-6988 www.alapark.com/frank-jacksonstate-park

ad on page 17 November 6-8, 13-15, 20-22 Landmark Park,

430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL 36303 Costumed Program! Give your students the experience of living and working on a Wiregrass Farmstead in the early 1900s. Students will get the opportunity to cook on the hearth, make butter, care for the farm animals, help in the garden and more! Costumed in period dress, students will be divided into small groups in order to participate at the different workstations. This half-day program will conclude with lunch prepared by the students at theWaddell House, traditional games, a hay ride, and an ice cream cone from the Martin Drugstore. Due to the hands on nature of this program, classes are limited to a maximum of 30 students and a minimum of 20 students. (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Theater

Ft. Rucker, AL 36362 Photo backdrops and plenty of places to take pictures with all your friends dressed in your costumes. Don’t miss out on the possibility of Miss Pumpkin or Mr. Pumpkin with the most creative costume! Participants must be a Child & Youth Services (CYS) registered member . Time 5:00-8:00 p.m.

Black Friday Pajama Party

Roll out of bed, come in your pjs and enjoy unique shopping at our Black Friday Pajama Party! Time 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Southwest Georgia Academy Fall Carnival

October 14-19 Patti Rutland Jazz, 1077 W. Main St. Dothan, AL 36301 This dance concert is like no other as audience members will be given a tour through a haunted house of dance where each room transports you into another world of haunted cinema. Recommended for audiences ages 12 and up.

October 1-5 Coffee Co. Farm Center,

Pumpkin Patch Skate Night October 18 Soldier Service Center,

(334) 255-9638 rucker.armymwr.com

October 24 14105 GA Hwy. 200

Damascus, GA 39841 Door prizes, face painting, games, inflatables, food, and more! Time 3:00-8:00 p.m.

Trunk or Treat

October 31 G.W. Long School,

2567 County Rd. 60 Skipperville, AL 36374 Come join the fun at G.W. Long as we put on our 3rd annual Trunk or Treat! Are you interested in having a trunk for your church, organization, or club? We would love to have you! Please contact us so we can had yours to our list of trunks.

(334) 774-0021

Carroll High School Jazz Band Fall Concert

November 19 Flowers Center for the Perform-

ing Arts, 312 E. College St. Ozark, AL 36360 7:00-8:00 p.m. Free Admission

ad on page 17 November 29 Downtown, Enterprise, AL 36330

(334) 348-2738 www.enterprisedowntown.org

Mine2Yours Fall & Winter Consignment Event

1015 E. McKinnon St. New Brockton, AL 36351 Shop thousands of gently-used items including clothing items for the whole family, baby equipment, toys, games, books, home decor, purses, bags, jackets, and even seasonal items!! This sale is FREE to attend and we have shopping bags & buggies for your shopping pleasure!

Fort Rucker Outdoor Yard Sale October 19 Soldier Service Center,

Ft. Rucker, AL 36362 Save some money or make some money at the annual yard sale & flea market! This outdoor event provides the opportunity for the Fort Rucker community to buy and sell used household items in a consolidated fashion. Open to the public. Time 7:00-11:00 a.m.

(334) 255-1749 rucker.armymwr.com

All Saints Day Gospel Sing & Christmas Crafts Sale

Carroll High School Symphonic Band Fall Concert

November 2 Newton BCI Library Museum,

ing Arts, 312 E. College St. Ozark, AL 36360 We will be performing music by Steven Bryant, Richard Saucedo, Percy Grainger, Morton Gould, Tyler Grant, Brian Balmages and John Philip Sousa, with special guests Dr. Jason Sulliman and Mrs. Meagan Johnson. 7:00-8:00 p.m. Free Admission.

(334) 299-3316

November 21 Flowers Center for the Perform-

Shopping Wiregrass Children’s Home 20th Annual Festival of Trees ad on page 29 November 14 Dothan Civic Center,

126 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 We are celebrating our 20th year of Festival of Trees AND the home’s 30th Anniversary! This is a Gala Auction Event featuring professionally decorated Christmas trees, centerpieces, wreaths, gift items, furniture, trips, and so much more! Dinner will be served as well as a cash bar. Tickets are $65.00 per person or you may purchase a table for 8 seats for only $500.00. You do not want to miss this event! (850) 768-3436 sadie@wiregrasschildrenshome.org www.WiregrassChildrensHome.org

Downtown Holiday Open House

ad on page 17 November 23 Downtown, Enterprise, AL 36330

Shop Local and start your Holiday Shopping off right in beautiful Downtown Enterprise! Enjoy our wonderful downtown hospitality and diverse offering of merchants to provide unique gifts for the holidays! Time 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. (334) 348-2738 www.enterprisedowntown.org

Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

209 Oates Dr. Newton, AL 36352 Tours, Art Exhibition, Crafts, Country Gospel, Newton Queens, Fun.

Fright Night: A Haunting Night at the Theater

(334) 699-5044 pattirutlandjazzdance@gmail.com www.pattirutlandjazz.com

Mystery at Moss Street Mansion October 3-5, 10-12, 17-19, 24-26

Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Come watch the mystery unfold inside the grand old Moss Street Mansion, located in the French Quarter of New Orleans. You never know what secrets might be discovered as you become immersed in the oddities and eccentricities of the owners and their family and guests. Will you be able to unravel the mystery before it’s revealed? (334) 470-6568 www.southernbroadway.com

This is Halloween: A Not So Scary Tale!

October 19 Patti Rutland Jazz,

1077 W. Main St. Dothan, AL 36301 Follow the misadventures of Jack Skellington, Halloweentown’s beloved pumpkin king as he plots to bring Christmas under his control. Come in your favorite costume, and enjoy the fun! Recommended for ages 2-11!

(334) 699-5044 pattirutlandjazzdance@gmail.com www.pattirutlandjazz.com

Come Home, It’s Suppertime

Market of Hope

November 2 Kinsey Baptist Church,

6745 Walden Dr. Kinsey, AL 36303 Craft and Local vendors will be set up for you to enjoy some holiday shopping. Our youth will be selling lunches. Time 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Holly Fair 2019

November 7-9, 14-16 We Piddle Around Theater, N. Main St. Brundidge, AL 36010 The stories told in “Come Home, It’s Suppertime” are 100 percent true and performed as told by real-life characters who milled around our hometown during the days of the Great Depression and strowed around stories that have endured with time. (334) 685-5524 piddle.org

November 7-10 Edgewater Beach & Golf Resort, 11212 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL 32407 Join us for a shopping extravaganza with daily entertainment and special events. Preview Party on Thursday evening followed by a Champagne Brunch on Friday morning with general admissions shopping Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Proceeds support the The Junior League of Panama City.

The Greatest Knight 2019

November 21 Windmill Station, 1369 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL 36303 Live and Silent Auction! 30/30 Gun Draw! Gift Card Grub Grab! Holiday Bake Sale! Dinner! Music! Food! Fun!! The Ultimate Draw Down! 100% of all the proceeds benefit the students of Northside Methodist Academy. Time 5:30-9 p.m. greatestknightevents@gmail.com

Mistletoe & Magnolia Holidays at The Lake House

November 30 The Lake House at Camellia Palms, 23622 Fifth Ave. Florala, AL 36442 Tis the Season. Deck the Halls. We’re Dreaming of...Our historic, Victorian home decorated for the holidays! (205) 585-0058

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Fright Night 2019

(334) 692-3890 www.continentalcinemas.com

Trick or Treating

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Continental Drive-In, 14200 Hwy 84 West Wicksburg, AL 36352 40 years of Halloween featuring Halloween 1978, Halloween 1998, and Halloween 2018. Tickets $8 for all 3 movies. Free coffee and donuts at midnight.

Fall Carnival

October 22 Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL 36362

All ages are invited to come dressed in your best family-friendly costume and geek out for a chance to win a prize. No registration required and judging will begin at 5 p.m. Halloween craft, trunk or treat, and other fun activities Open to authorized patrons and EFMP friendly. Time 4:30-6:00 p.m.

(334) 255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

Spooky in the Park

October 25 Johnny Henderson Park,

300 Hwy. 167 North Enterprise, AL 36330 Costume contests for kids and dogs, games and activities, and Halloween music. Take a

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hayride around the park, past the graveyard, and through the haunted tunnel. The EHS Interact Club will be selling concessions. Zombie 5K Fun Run hosted by EHS FBLA to raise money for the March of Dimes.

October 11-13, 18-20, 25-31 Montgomery Zoo, 2301 Coliseum Pkwy. Montgomery, AL 36110 Join us for 13 nights of horror, thrills, chills, and fun. Climb aboard the thrill ride of a life time Haunted Hay Ride or mosey on over to the Pumpkin Pull for a good, ole fashioned, nonscary, traditional hay ride. Enjoy games, bouncy castles, rides, seasonal concessions, and much more. Gates open nightly at 6pm, and the first Haunted Hay Ride will pull out at dusk.

(334) 348-2686 eprd@enterpriseal.gov

Campground Trick or Treat

October 26 Kolomoki Mounds

State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA 39823 Meet at the Visitor Center as we load up for a hay ride to trick-ortreat around the campground. There will also be fall crafts as you wait and a movie once it is dark outside. Concessions will be sold. $5 per person plus $5 Park Pass. Time: 5:00-8:30 p.m.

(229) 724-2150

Pumpkins on the Square

October 29 Court Square, Blakely, GA 39823

Pumpkin decorating contest, pet costume contest, kids’ costume contests with cutest, scariest and most original. Photo op stations, games, and prizes. Time 5:00-7:00 p.m. EST

(229) 723-3741 info@blakelyearlycountychamber.org www.blakelyearlycountychamber.org

Ashford Recreation Department Trick or Treat October 31 220 N. Broadway St.

Ashford, AL 36312 Come and enjoy a safe night of trick or treating and fellowship at the recreation department. There will be bouncy houses, live entertainment, music, costume contest, games and concession available.

Fall Fling

October 31 Westgate Park, 501 Recreation Rd.

Dothan, AL 36303 Inflatables, treats, popcorn, cotton candy, mystery trail, and costume contest. FREE. Time 5:30-8:30 p.m.

(334) 615-3700

Halloween Movie Night

October 31 Ozark Amphitheater, Ozark, AL 36360 The Ozark Amphitheater will be showing Hocus Pocus on Halloween, followed by trick-or-treating hosted by the Downtown Ozark Businesses! There will also be a costume contest. Time: 7:3010:30 p.m.

Halloween Scream

October 31 Downtown Sq, Headland, AL 36345 A fun and safe trick-or-treating experience for the children of our community within the well-lit, police-patrolled area of Headland’s Downtown Square. Inflatables and music make the evening even more fun for the whole family!

(334) 693-3303

Pumpkins on the Square

October 31 Courthouse Square, Elba, AL

Fall carnival featuring free Jack O’ Lanterns on the Levee Walk, bounce houses, outdoor scary movie, and the spirits are full of thrills for those brave enough to take the Haunted Hayride. Time 6:00-9:00 p.m.

Wiregrass Trunk or Treat

October 31 Dunkin’, 2141 Ross Clark Circle

Dothan, AL 36301 Decorated vehicles with trunks and other various terrifying compartments full of tricks or treats!

BBQ in the Pines

October 12 Hard Labor Creek Hunting Plantation, 1963 Hard Labor Rd. Chipley, FL 32428 Barbecue cook-off PLUS Kid’s Activities, Vendors, Entertainment, Food and Fun!

Worth the Drive Terror in the Wild

September 20-October 26

Wild Adventures Theme Park, 3766 Old Clyattville Rd. Valdosta, GA 31601 For 12 select nights, your nightmares will come to life during Terror in the Wild! Designed to scare, Wild Adventures’ haunted attractions and scare zones will return with a vengeance. Not recommended for children 12 and under. contactus@wildadventures.com www.wildadventures.com

Kid-O-Ween

September 21-October 27

Wild Adventures Theme Park, 3766 Old Clyattville Rd. Valdosta, GA 31601 Bring the entire family to Wild Adventures to experience BOO-tacular Halloween activities during Kid-O-Ween! No Kid-O-Ween events or children’s rides on Fridays in October. On Saturdays, Kid-O-Ween activities and select kids’ rides end by 6:00 p.m. Sundays in October, Kid-O-Ween activities and children’s rides operate during the entire park day. contactus@wildadventures.com www.wildadventures.com

(850) 638-4157

Chautauqua Winery’s 2019 Harvest Festival

October 19 Chautauqua Vineyards and Winery, 364 Hughes Adams Rd. DeFuniak Springs, FL Live Music, Free Wine Tasting, Craft Vendors. Free Admission. Family Friendly.

www.chautauquawinery.com

Donalsonville/Seminole County Harvest Festival October 19 Downtown, Donalsonville, GA

Events for the day will kick off with the Rejoice Run & Mom’s Mile, followed by the Harvest Festival parade. Live music, recipe contest, antique car and tractor show, arts and crafts vendors, fine art show, children’s activities, and food.

(229) 524-2588 kadie.chamberofcommerce@gmail.com

Ghost Tour at Port Columbus

October 19 National Civil War Naval Museum,

1002 Victory Lane Columbus, GA 31901 Guided walkthrough of the museum telling the stories you’ll hear nowhere else. This tour is given by Faith Serafin of the Alabama Ghost Hunters. The event highlights experiences and information from previous investigations. Children under 13 not permitted. Limited spaces available. Time: 7:00 p.m. Cost: $15/person

Panama City Beach Oktoberfest

(706) 327-9798

Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32413 Three days of German and locally brewed beer, food, music, as well as activities for kids and families.

2nd Annual Monster Mash Dash 5k Run/Walk

October 4-6 Aaron Bessant Park, 600 Pier Park

www.visitpanamacitybeach.com

Harvest Market Days

October 5, 12, 19 Downtown, Opp, FL

Fall farmer’s market leading up to Opp Fest. In addition to the market, each Saturday will have a different fall fun event including a pumpkin patch, fall bake-off, tailgate party, and much more!

October 26 Andalusia City Hall,

505 E 3 Notch St. Andalusia, AL 36420 An exhilarating glow run/walk course through downtown Andalusia complete with costume contest, runner and walker medals, snow cones, climbing wall, DJ, and a few happy haunts. Race starts at 6:30 p.m.

(334) 488-3785 www.athlinks.com

Opp Fest

Pioneer Days

October 11-12 Pioneer Museum of Alabama,

248 Hwy. 231 North Troy, AL 36081 Take a step back in time and experience living history at its best! Watch demonstrations such as woodworking, blacksmithing, dutch oven cooking, and sample corn bread that has been cooked on an authentic wood stove. Come meet Davy Crocket and other historical re-enactors! (334) 566-3597 pioneer@troycable.net www.pioneer-museum.org

Pirates of the High Seas Fest

October 11-13 Panama City Beach, FL 32413 Get ready to enjoy live music, pirate parades, pirate costumes, an 8,000 beach ball drop from the sky, fireworks and more! www.visitpanamacitybeach.com

October 26 Downtown, Opp, AL

Arts and crafts booths, food vendors, musical entertainment, merchant sidewalk sales, a car show, children’s activities, and a soap box derby. Time 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m.

Spooktacular

October 26 Chehaw Park, 105 Chehaw Park Rd.

Albany, GA 31701 Not-so-spooky Halloween fun for all ages! Come in costume for a chance to win prizes! Event is included in Zoo admission, and as always free for members! Lots of NEW, fun Halloween themed games, face painting, cookie decorating, special Halloween animal enrichment, tons of fun prizes and candy! (229) 430-5275 mburnette@chehaw.org WP www.chehaw.org

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

FamilyCalendar Tuesday October 1

Wiregrass Lunch & Learn (Free) 12:00 p.m. - 1:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Participants are encouraged to bring a sack lunch to enjoy as they learn about such topics as: creating the perfect lawn, vegetables, blueberries, landscape design, pest management, and much more. No registration required. (334) 774-2329 Mystery @ Main (Free) 1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 October Book: Deadly Shade of Gold by John D. McDonald. Discussion group meets once a month on the first Tuesday of each month. (334) 774-2329 www.dhcls.org Slime Lab (Free) 4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us each month for a different squishy-icky type of gelatinous goo! All supplies will be provided and registration is REQUIRED! (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org

Thursday October 3

Early Escape ($20) 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., Early Co. Museum, 226 N. Main St. Blakely, GA, 39823 Early County Family Connection has created two thrilling escape rooms with themes pertaining to relevant issues Early County teens face. Designed for groups of 4-8 people. Best suited for ages 12 and up. (229) 723-5122 earlychoices.org Anime Club (Free) 3:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd Daleville, AL, 36322 Every month, we will watch anime, play games, and discover different Japanese arts & crafts. Ages 12-17. Please register. Some movies rated PG-13. (334) 503-9119 LEGO Builders Club (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd Daleville, AL, 36322 Come join us for some fun build challenges or you can enjoy some easy going freestyle building. (334) 503-9119 First Thursday (Free) 5:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Court Square, Blakely, GA, 39823 Fun and games for the kids. Vendors selling homemade goodies, jewelry and trendy fashions. Discounts and sales at local restaurants and retailers. (229) 723-3741 Boat Regatta 5:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Fort Rucker Physical Fitness Center Indoor Pool, Andrews Ave. Bldg. 4605 Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Turn cardboard into a seaworthy vessel! Teams of 2 or more can build a boat at home out of cardboard and bring it in to see if it floats! Prizes will be given out to winners of various categories. Register by Oct. 2 (334) 255-2296 rucker.armymwr.com KS Handmade For Hope-DIY Home Decor Workshop Fundraiser ($50) 6:00 p.m. Porter Hardware, 136 E. Main St. Dothan, AL, 36302 Make your own customized item for your home or office while supporting the Sandi McCool

Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

F Fanaticon 2019

Champions Of Hope. Refreshments provided. (334) 701-0410 www.kshandmade.com Pajama Story Time 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Center Library, Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 A fun way to enhance parent-child interaction in a nighttime setting. Wear your comfiest PJs and bring your favorite stuffed animal as we sing, dance, and read stories. Open to authorized patrons and EFMP friendly. (334)255-3885 rucker.armymwr.com

Friday October 4

Art of Yoga ($10) 9:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Spend an inspired hour on your mat surrounded by some of the South’s most engaging art! Participants will be guided through an all-levels appropriate class. Please bring your own water bottle, yoga mat, and towel. No reservations required. (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org Coffee and Friends 9:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Bowden Terrace Community Center, 9700 Division Rd. Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Do you need help understanding military life, new to Fort Rucker, or just looking to make some new friends? Join us for Coffee and Friends hosted by ACS on the first Friday of every month. (334) 255-3898 rucker.armymwr.com Early Escape ($20) 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., Early Co. Museum, 226 N. Main St. Blakely, GA, 39823 Early County Family Connection has created two thrilling escape rooms with themes pertaining to relevant issues Early County teens face. Designed for groups of 4-8 people. Best suited for ages 12 and up. (229) 723-5122 earlychoices.org Let’s Dance Not Fight 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., The Landing, 113 Novosel St. Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Zumba marathon (334) 255-3161 rucker.armymwr.com Swamp Gravy: Behind Closed Doors (Individual Tickets: $22)

7:30 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 158 E. Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 There’s more to a person’s story than meets the eye. Small town myths and legends can be spawned from nothing more than a little white lie! Watch as young love blossoms, oldfriendships falter, and the florist in town keeps everybody’ssecrets! These are the stories you haven’t told Mama yet! (229) 758-5450 swampgravy.com

Saturday October 5 A Walk to Remember

(Registration: $25 w/ T-shirt, $15 w/o T-shirt)

7:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., Westgate Park, Dothan, AL, 36303 A 1-mile, 3-mile or 5-mile walk-a-thon (walker’s option) to benefit the Alzheimer’s Resource Center. (334) 702-2273 wesharethecare.webconnex.com Wiregrass Bloggers Blitz ($10) 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Women’s CEO Alliance, 1369 Headland Ave., Ste. 5 Dothan, AL, 36303 Create in purpose on purpose with a group of like minded people. Write your blogs, record your vlogs, shoot some photography shots! Whatever you need to get youe blog going. (334) 699-1984

(Adults $29; Kids (712) $13; Children (6 & Under) $2)

10:00 a.m. - 11:00 p.m., Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 The Wiregrass Area’s Fan Convention featuring Pop Culture Guests, Artists, Vendors, Panels, Workshops, Tournaments, Cosplay, Wrestling, and more! www.AlabamaFanaticon.org First Saturday Family Day (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 A free comeand-go art activity for kids of all ages is offered the first Saturday of every month. All supplies are provided and no pre-registration is required. (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Pink Ribbon Ride 11:00 a.m. Harley Davidson of Dothan, 2418 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, AL, 36301 Join Flowers Hospital and Harley-Davidson of Dothan for the first annual “Pink Ribbon Ride” in support of Breast Cancer Awareness Month. Ksu @ 11am at Flowers Hospital (Dr’s Ctr parking lot), ride around the circle and end @ Harley-Davidson of Dothan for free lunch, live music, vendors, door prizes and bouce houses for kids! Early Escape ($20) 11:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., Details October 4. (229) 723-5122 earlychoices.org Puppers and Beers 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Sixtel Bottle & Growler House, 210 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Have a delicious beer and help your favorite local shelter, S.O.S, find furever homes for their wonderful animals. Not looking to adopt but still want to help? All donations are greatly appreciated! Bring in food and old toys and help improve the life of a pupper in need. Swamp Gravy: Behind Closed Doors (Individual Tickets: $22)

2 p.m. & 6 pm Details October 4. (229) 758-5450 swampgravy.com Evening with the Dothan Moonlighters and the Dothan Dance Club (Tickets $30 per person) 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Abbeville United Methodist Church, 100 E. Kelly St. Abbeville, AL, 36310 An evening will be comprised of music, dinner, and dancing featuring the Dothan Moonlighters, Dothan Dance Club, and jazz vocalist Maria Speight. Proceeds benefit the Abbeville Boys & Girls Club and the Belize Children Feeding Program. Tickets available at AUMC or Abbeville Chamber of Commerce. (334) 585-2273 or (334) 585-3121 Underwear Comedy Show (Tickets: $10) 8:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Featured Players Cabaret, 3178 Hartford Hwy. Dothan, AL, 36305 The Humortals is a group of female and non-binary comedians. Please join us for the Underwear Comedy Showcase featuring the comedic stylings of Lola Finch, Caitria DeLucchi, Gabrielle Fisher, Joe Underwood, Sarah Lamb and more! Must be 19 to enter. (334) 805-6288 featuredplayers@yahoo.com

Sunday October 6

Fanaticon 2019 (Adults $29; Kids (712) $13; Children (6 & Under) $2)

10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Details October 5. www.AlabamaFanaticon.org

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FamilyCalendar

Early Escape ($20) 1:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m., Details October 4. (229) 723-5122 earlychoices.org

painting, door prizes, entertainment and/or client testimonies, and refreshments. (334) 774-4419 www.savalifeozark.org

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 learn why these animals are important to the environment. (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Laura Pate Memorial Furfest 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Cottage Antiques, 2187 S. Brannon Stand Rd. Dothan, AL, 36305 FURfest, held twice a year, is an outdoor festival with vendors selling art, antiques and collectibles, home baked and home made goodies and much more. FURfest is a fundraiser for Felines Under Rescue (FUR), a volunteer operated, TNR (TrapNeuterReturn) non-profit organization that pays for spay/neuter of community cats as well as spay/neuter and vet care for pet cats and dogs whose owners cannot afford to do so. (334) 618-9752 or (334) 693-5277

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Wednesday October 9

Slime Lab (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Ashford Library, 305 6th Ave. Ashford, AL, 36312 Join us each month for a different squishy-icky type of gelatinous goo! All supplies will be provided and registration is REQUIRED! (334) 899-3121 www.dhcls.org Teen Scrabble (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd Daleville, AL, 36322 Come relax with some refreshments, fun, and GIANT SCRABBLE! Ages 12-17. (334) 503-9119

Thursday October 10 An Evening in Monte Carlo

(General Admission $75 per person)

6:00 p.m. Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 A night of Italian cuisine with dinner music provided by members of the Wallace Sound. Attendees will also have the opportunity to bid on silent and live auction items while socializing with friends and meeting new people. Presented by the Wallace Community College Foundation. (334) 556-2626 tbrooks@wallace.edu Enterprise Stars Dancing for Scholarships ($60) 6:15 p.m. Enterprise Civic Center, 2401 Neil Metcalf Rd. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Seven local stars will showcase their dancing talents. Tickets available in ESCC Business Office through Oct. 4. Tickets will not be available at the door. (334) 347-2623 ext. 2279 cstump@escc.edu YA Book Club 7:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Barnes & Noble, 4601 Montgomery Hwy. Dothan, AL, 36303 Discussing “Serpant & Dove” by Shelby Mahurin.

Friday October 11

Swamp Gravy: Behind Closed Doors (Individual Tickets: $22)

7:30 p.m. Details October 4. (229) 758-5450 swampgravy.com

Saturday October 12

12th Annual Wiregrass Area Buddy Walk 8:00 a.m. NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy. 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Families and friends will enjoy festivities and participate in a one-mile advocacy walk to promote the acceptance and inclusion of individuals with Down Syndrome. (334) 726-2075 WiregrassAreaBuddyWalk@yahoo. com www.downsyndromefriends.org Walk for Life 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Police Memorial Park, 406 Ben St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Registration begins at 8:00, Walk begins at 9:00. There will be games, face

Popcorn and a Movie! (Free) 12:45 p.m. Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Free kid-friendly movie with popcorn and a refreshing beverage! Showing Pokemon:Detective Pikachu. Swamp Gravy: Behind Closed Doors (Individual Tickets: $22)

2:00 & 6:00 p.m. Details October 4. (229) 758-5450 swampgravy.com The Audrey Williams Story (Tickets $25) 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., We Piddle Around Theater, N. Main St. Brundidge, AL, 36010 Back for another performance, Dolores Hydock brings a story about Audrey Sheppard, who was just a girl from Pike County until she met and married country music legend, Hank Williams. Tickets include country supper and show. (334) 670-6302 piddle.org Dothan Ballroom Dance Club Dollar Dance

($1 per person)

7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Fun, safe, smoke-free atmosphere for dancers of all styles to enjoy. Recorded music changes themes each month. Cash bar provided. Bring your own snacks. (334) 796-7472 theculturalartscenter.org

Sunday October 13

FrUiTcAkEs Auditions 2:00 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 SEACT is baking a batch of holiday fruitcakes! Ingredients include three dozen Christmas trees, 10,000 outdoor Christmas lights, a chicken pox epidemic, a cat named Tutti Frutti, and a Christmas hog named Buster. www.seact.com

Monday October 14 FrUiTcAkEs Auditions 6:30 p.m. Details October 13. www.seact.com

Book Club (Free) 2:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Everyone is invited to join us for a lively discussion on popular books. Each meeting begins with a general discussion of books read by attendees followed by a guided discussion of the month’s selection. Books are chosen at the previous meeting. (334) 774-5480 www.odcpl.com Adult Book Club: Literary League 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

Empty Bowls Dothan Community Glazing Day 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Make and donate soup bowls to be sold at the Empty Bowls Dothan event in February benefitting the Wiregrass Area Food Bank. Reservations required. (334) 699-2787 ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Wednesday October 16

Anime Club (Free) 3:15 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd Daleville, AL, 36322 Every month, we will watch anime, play games, and discover different Japanese arts & crafts. Ages 12-17. Please register. Some movies rated PG-13. (334) 503-9119 Slime Lab (Free) 4:30 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., DothanHouston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us each month for a different squishy-icky type of gelatinous goo! All supplies will be provided and registration is REQUIRED! (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org Wiregrass Fields of Faith 5:30 p.m. Northcutt Field - Westgate Park, 501 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Free Tailgate Party on the field with free hamburgers & hot dogs. Praise & worship led by Ashley Marie Dennis. Fields of Faith Rally featuring guest speaker, Aaron Dickinson. All are welcome!

Thursday October 17

Houston Co. Group Meeting & Parent Cafe

(Free) 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m., Wiregrass Boys &

Girls Club, 457 S. Alice St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Join HIPPY for some free fun at the Boys & Girls Club in downtown Dothan, AL. 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! (334) 792-6255 8th Annual Ralph Smith Memorial Golf Tournament 11:00 a.m. Highland Oaks Golf Course, 904 Royal Pkwy. Dothan, AL, 36305(334) 596-2352 Lego Club (Free) 3:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Ashford Library, 305 6th Ave. Ashford, AL, 36312 Registration is not required, but space is limited.This program is designed for kids ages 5-12. (334) 899-3121 www.dhcls.org Lego Club (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Registration is not required, but space is limited.This program is designed for kids ages 5-12. (334) 793-9767 www.dhcls.org Teen Book Club 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 Art After Hours ($5 Non-Members, Free Members) 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 WMA’s quarterly event to celebrate the opening of new exhibitions.

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FamilyCalendar Come wander the galleries, have a drink, and take in the new art on display. You might even have a chance to speak with one of the exhibiting artists or try your hand at an in-gallery activity. Light snacks will be served, and drinks will be available for purchase. (334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Friday October 18

Fort Rucker 2 Mile Pink Run 6:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m., FortenberryColton PFC, 4605 Andrews Ave. Ft. Rucker, AL, 36362 Fort Rucker Physical Fitness Center will host a 2 Mile PT Pink Run or walk to raise awareness for breast cancer, celebrate breast cancer survivorship and honor those who have lost their battle with the disease. For additional information contact the Fort Rucker Physical Fitness Center. (334) 255-2296 Swamp Gravy: Behind Closed Doors (Individual Tickets: $22)

7:30 p.m. Details October 4. (229) 758-5450 swampgravy.com

Saturday October 19

Champions of Hope 7:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Alabama College of Osteopathic Medicine, 445 Health Sciences Blvd. Dothan, AL, 36303 The Sandi McCool Champions of Hope is a 5-K, 10-K and half marathon competitive race, 1-mile Spirit Walk and Kids Zone community cancer awareness event presented annually by the Southeast Health Foundation. Each year sponsors, runners, walkers, and survivors, along with their families and friends gather to raise money and awareness about the importance of early detection and intervention. Run Baby Run 5k/ Walk/ Fun Run/ Diaper Dash (Runners & Walkers $25; Fun Run $15;

Diaper Dash Free)

8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Bates Memorial Stadium, Enterprise, AL, 36330 A Run for Everyone!! Benefitting Wiregrass Emergency Pregnancy Services (WEPS). register.chronotrack.com Coffee and Coloring (Free) 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate, Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Need to de-stress? Join us for passive aggressive coloring! We have new books, printable pages and a whole new hilarious outlook. Come make new friends and have a good time laughing at the colorful language! All supplies are provided or bring your own. (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org Paint Your Own Pet (Reservation $45) 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., All About Art, 100 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Submit a high resolution photo of your pet via email at least 2 weeks in advance. We will prepare your 16 x 20 canvas with a custom sketch of your pet. Consider your color scheme prior to attending class. Limited class size. Early reservations recommended. allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com

Chili Cook Off & Auction (Admission $6) 5:00 p.m. Rainbow Meadows Baptist Church, 3480 Napier Field Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Proceeds for chili cook off entrance fee benefits Brotherhood’s Mission Projects & Auction proceeds benefit WMU’s missions projects. Entrance fee includes all-you-can eat chili and Auction for handmade crafts and baked goods to follow.

Tuesday October 22

Alabama: The Early Years 1:30 p.m. - 2:30 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Alabama historian Jim Phillips will give a rousing & edifying presentation on the early years in Alabama’s history! Please join us for an enlightening program! Refreshments will be provided. Million Dollar Quartet 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m., Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 In 1956, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley gathered at the Sun Record recording studio in Memphis, Tennessee. Dubbed the Million Dollar Quartet, this was their only performance, a cultural flashpoint that caught rock ‘n’ roll at the moment of creation. Recommended for ages 10+. (334) 794-0400 www.seact.com

Wednesday October 23

Million Dollar Quartet 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Details October 22.

Thursday October 24

Children Tea Time Story Hour ($7 per child) 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Martin Teas, 450 S. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Boys and Girls Tea Time, ages 3-5, storybook reading, food, games. Parent or guardian free with paid admission for child. Reservation required. (612) 251-8521

Swamp Gravy: Behind Closed Doors (Individual Tickets: $22)

2:00 & 6:00 p.m. Details October 4. (229) 758-5450 swampgravy.com Million Dollar Quartet 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Details October 22.

Sunday October 27

Adult Skate Night (Admission $10; Skate Rental $3) 7:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m., Fun Zone Skate Center, 465 Westgate Pkwy. Dothan, AL, 36303 DJ Smoke playing your favorite skate jams from the 70’s, 80’s & 90’s. 18+ to enter. www.funzoneskatecenterdothan.com

Friday November 1

Million Dollar Quartet 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Details October 22.

Friday October 25

Saturday November 2

Fall into Fashion Gala (Tickets $20) 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Enterprise State Community College, 600 Plaza Dr. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Women Who Care celebrates 9 years of advancing Wiregrass women in the workforce.This year’s Gala will begin with a dinner. Guests will enjoy a fashion show with clothing provided from our very own April’s Boutique. (334) 390-0649

Million Dollar Quartet 7:00 p.m. - 9:30 p.m. Details October 22. Swamp Gravy: Behind Closed Doors (Individual

Tickets: $22)

7:30 p.m. Details October 4.

Saturday October 26

Dothan Half & 5K (Registration: 5K $45; Half Marathon $60)

7:00 a.m. - 10:00 a.m., 2214 Ross Clark Circle Dothan, AL, 36301 Come “Run America’s First Circle” and earn yourself a Golden Peanut medal. racedirector@ runthecircle.com

(Individual Tickets: $22)

Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

Margarita Crawl (Tickets: Early Bird $20; Day Of $35) 2:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., 5+ Venues! Discounted Drinks at all venues! 21+ event, photo ID required all day.

National Peanut Festival Opens 4:00 p.m. NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy. 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Celebrating the peanut harvest, The 76th Peanut Festival hosts the 10 day Fair each Fall. Spectacular Rides, great Fair Food, entertainers, agriculture exhibits, craft exhibits & lots of vendors combine for a family fun event. The Ultimate Roadside Attraction! www.nationalpeanutfestival.com

Swamp Gravy: Behind Closed Doors 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Details October 4. (229) 758-5450 swampgravy.com

Pawsfest 2019 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Downtown Square, Headland, AL, 36345 Annual fundraiser to raise money to fund the operation of the Headland Animal Shelter including food, cleaning supplies, medical care and shelter improvements. People and pet friendly. We will have vendor booths, a Pet Pageant, a Pet Parade, games & music.

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Montessori Madness 5K (Pre-registration $25) 8:00 a.m. Dothan Montessori School, 205 Holly Lane Dothan, AL, 36301 5K race for all ages. Kids dash. Door prizes. (334) 671-7170 www.DothanMontessoriSchool.org Celebration of Life 5K Run/Walk with Zumba

(Registration: 5K w/ T-Shirt $25, w/o T-Shirt $15 / Zumba w/ T-Shirt $25, w/o T-Shirt $15)

8:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park, 1715 Whatley Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us for our first annual Angela Marie DiLillo Foundation “Celebration of Life” 5K Run/Walk with Zumba fundraiser event to raise money for educational scholarships and awareness about the importance of early detection and intervention of lung cancer. (334) 618-6706

Friends of the Ozark Dale Co. Library Book Sale 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Ozark Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 The Friends of the Library are hosting another book sale just in time for

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FamilyCalendar

FamilyCalendar the gift giving season! Be sure to stop by the Library and browse our wide selection of books for the reader in your life! All books are Buy One, Get One Free! Hardback books are $2 and softcover books are $0.50!

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. Plus, get a free Starbucks tall, hot or iced coffee (Café stores only). For caregivers and children 0-24 months old. (334) 671-8013 Chess Club (Free) 2:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m., Dothan Houston Co. LibraryMain Branch, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us for Chess Club every Sunday at Main! 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

and proof of immunization required. For details call New Parent Support Program. (334) 255-9647 rucker.armymwr.com 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. Please note that registration is not required, however supplies are limited and will be available on a first come basis. If you are bringing a group, please call for more information. Stories and crafts are designed for 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

Every Thursday

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

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. New riders get the track to themselves starting at 2:00. (334) 714-0212

Adult Coloring Club (Free) 10:00 a.m. Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd. Daleville, AL, 36322 Join us for some good conversation and coloring. Geared for adults. Please contact the library for more details. (334) 503-9119

Every Monday

Every Friday

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. For details contact New Parent Support Program. (334) 255-9647 rucker.armymwr.com

Every Tuesday

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 & craft time. Please note that registration is not required, however supplies are limited and will be available on a first come basis. If you are bringing a group, please call for more information. Stories and crafts are designed for 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. 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, male and female, to create and construct colorful quilts for infirmed and homebound members or friends who will enjoy them. Just bring your sewing machine or willingness to help! (334) 347-5214 www.mygpchurch.com

Every Wednesday

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

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. Recommended ages are 5 and up. Supplies are provided. (334) 774-5480 www.odcpl.com 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 Café for a grilled cheese sandwich with milk or juice for $4 (Café stores only). (334) 671-8013 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 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. We invite you to bring your favorite finger food to share with us. Ages 18 up. Casual dress.

Every Saturday & Sunday

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. All our activities are focused on developing early literacy skills and promoting a lifelong love of learning. (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. A typical Story Time includes a story and coloring or craft time. (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. You must pay in advance to reserve your spot for the evening. We accept walk-ins as space is available. Ages 18+. Bring your own beverages and refreshments. (334) 348-2738 www.allaboutartstudio.com

Every Saturday

Story & Craft Time (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Ashford Library, 305 6th Ave. Ashford, AL, 36312 Join us for our story and craft time! Please note that registration is not required, however supplies are limited and will be available on a first come basis. (334) 899-3121 www.dhcls.org

Planetarium Shows: Seasonal Stars & Stories ($3) 1:00 p.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Saturdays and Sundays. Live show that projects the seasonal stars and constellations and teaches stargazers how to find these heavenly bodies in their own backyards. Not recommended for children under 5. Please note, on the second weekend of each month the Planetarium will show full dome movies only. (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday

Planetarium Shows: Full Dome Movies ($3)

Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Fridays, Sundays and Mondays at 3:30 p.m. Saturdays at 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. January Movie: “Two Small Pieces of Glass.” Learn the history of the telescope, from Galileo’s modifications to a child’s spyglass to the launch of NASA’s Hubble Space Telescope and the future of astronomy. (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

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

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to that experience. I can’t wait to see how they turn out, but I also know it’s one step closer to the finish line. I’m in a little bit of denial about how close we are to graduation. Everyone tells you these years will fly by, but it’s impossible to truly grasp until you’re on this side of things and look back and wonder how it could have gone so fast. WP: Living with two teenage daughters has got to have its ups and downs. How do you navigate the hormones?

Jennifer Hattery

JH: Very, very carefully. I would compare it to suddenly finding yourself on a roller coaster that you didn’t ask to be on. Just kidding (sort of). Kylie is 17 and Carly is 13. They are similar in some ways and wildly different in others. Teenage girl emotions are turned up to max all the time, whether its happiness, heartbreak, twitterpation or anger… you name it, it’s all exacerbated by their hormones. A teen girl’s first time having her heart stepped on is never easy, but ice cream, mani/pedis and a little Beyoncé & Miranda sure make it better. My girls have big hearts that they wear on their shoulders, so we do our best to steer clear of mean girls, and sadly that sometimes includes mean moms. I try to be their compass when life gets confusing...there are so many lessons in these years and many of them are tough to learn.

WP: School has been back in session for a couple of months now. Do you feel like your family has settled into a good routine?

WP: Speaking of parenting, how would your children describe your parenting style?

JH: We have a few different routines that we rotate based on factors like Josh’s flight schedule, Carly’s school and cheer, my work events, and all of Kylie’s clubs, work, college preparations, and mascot appearances. It can be challenging to put all the pieces together at the beginning of each school year. Honestly, as a mom who has ADD, I find routines to be challenging any time of the year. My brain just doesn’t work in that way, which is a blessing and a curse. I also have an incredible husband who goes above and beyond to help with everything from kids’ doctor appointments to making dinner. It’s organized chaos to say the least, but it’s our normal and it works for us!

JH: Tough love probably sums my style up best. I will always push my kids to do their best. They have so much potential and I want to see them reach their goals. I am honest with my girls about their flaws and applaud their strengths. I don’t sugar coat things or try to shelter them from difficult life lessons. I feel they should learn those things while I’m here to guide them. I am incredibly proud of Kylie and Carly for the young ladies they have already become. I can’t wait to see where life will take them both. I am their biggest cheerleader, best advocate and fiercest defender. WP: What’s something you (or your family) is looking forward to this fall? JH: Football season of course! College football is my absolute favorite; I love the traditions and rivalries that come with it! I was born and raised in Ohio, and love my Buckeyes, O-H! However, our girls have been raised in North Carolina and Alabama. Kylie is leaning towards Auburn and Carly’s goal is to cheer at Alabama. So, we may have to eventually cheer for an SEC team, but not today. In all honesty, we plan to take them to a game in Tuscaloosa this year so they can experience that excitement.

WP: What was it like sending your senior off to her last first day of high school? JH: Oh boy, I would love to tell you that we had a Pinterest perfect morning, complete with a personalized sign displaying “Senior 2020.” However, that was not the case. Kylie had to be to school earlier than usual to assist new students, and we were all running a bit behind. So, like any other school day, she yelled, “Love you, bye,” down the hall and rushed out the door. Twelve years of first day pictures, and I miss the first day of her SENIOR year, you’ve got to be kidding, right?! We made the best of it and took a picture the next morning. In a couple of years we won’t even remember it wasn’t actually the “first” day, right?

WP: Do you have a favorite fall or Halloween memory? JH: In 2009, Josh was home on R&R from Afghanistan at the end of October. I’m not sure if it was the fall feeling in the air, or the kids’ ages at the time. But it was like everything fell into place and we were able to celebrate most of our favorite fall traditions in that short time. We went to Great Wolf Lodge, the pumpkin patch, trick-or-treating, watched football games, took the girls to a Disney on Ice show, did an early Thanksgiving and even decorated the Christmas tree early before he had to go back.

WP: Are there any special things you’d like to do with her before she graduates? JH: Nothing specific, just to slow down and really enjoy all the special moments her senior year will bring. In November, she will have her senior pictures, and we are both really looking forward Wiregrass Parents I October 2019

Jennifer Hattery is the assistant director at the Enterprise Chamber of Commerce. She and her husband, Joshua, have two children, Kylie (17) and Carly (13).

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Providing the Wiregrass smiles

Regional Programming: Smile-A-Mile is committed to serving families who are on the childhood cancer journey by providing programming in their own communities across Alabama. These areas include Auburn, Dothan, Huntsville, Montgomery and Tuscaloosa. Hospital Outreach Program (HOP): HOP takes weekly activities to children and families being treated at the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s of Alabama. HOP allows us to meet families soon after a cancer diagnosis and provide life-enriching programming. Programs at Smile-A-Mile (SAM) Place: SAM Place is Smile-A-Mileâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s home in Birmingham. Programs at SAM Place foster emotional and psychological healing for children and their families at all stages of the childhood cancer journey. Camp Sessions: Smile-A-Mile provides seven camp sessions each summer tailored to age and stage of treatment. Scholarship: Smile-A-Mile created our scholarship program in 1999 to assist families in sending their patients/survivors to college or trade school. Bereavement Programming: Smile-A-Mile is dedicated to continuing support for bereaved families through programming, remembrance ceremonies and keepsakes which serve as tangible reminders of their children. 205.323.8427 savannah@smileamile.com

1600 2nd Avenue South Birmingham AL 35233