Wiregrass Parents - Feb 2022

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FLU & PNEUMONIA

FACTS

Flu & Pneumonia Vaccines Reduce Illnesses, Doctor Visits, Hospitalizations, Missed Work & School.

U L F T H G FI A I N O M U & PNE

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Volume 4 Number 6

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From the Publisher Ashton Wright

Tweens, Teens & Screens Why boundaries are so important with your child’s devices.

Your Fitness Journey Success depends largely on following these three steps!

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The Early Years Kishia Saffold

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Kids Health Watch

by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

14 Tweens, Teens and

Screens

Kristi Bush, LSW

Are You a Fitness Role Model?

Why it matters for your kids!

Healthy Kids Guide

Local resources to keep kids fit and healthy...mind and body.

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Teacher of the Month

On The Cover Aleyna Tharpe, 5, is the daughter of Johnathan and Kayla Tharpe.

She has a 3-year-old brother, Aiden. Aleyna loves to sing, dance, make art, and is learning to cook in the kitchen with Mom. Her favorite thing to do is go to school at Small Steps Preschool.

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Bits & Pieces 9

School Bits 32

Mom to Mom

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FromThePublisher The Area’s Go-To Resource for Families

It feels a little ironic that I’m writing the note for our Healthy Kids Issue just a few days after getting over being sick. Yes, after avoiding it for nearly two years, Covid finally hit our family, and we spent half of January in quarantine. We’re not sure if Alexis brought it home from school or if my husband picked it up at work, since he was the first to go down. Thankfully, although no one in our house avoided symptoms, we all had mild cases.

As a parent, I take my daughter’s health seriously. Alexis was diagnosed with asthma just before her third birthday, making our bout with Covid especially stressful. We had hoped she would outgrow it, but so far that hasn’t been the case. In the last four years, I have learned a lot about asthma, but the one thing I wish everyone knew is that asthma is nothing like how you see it portrayed in movies or on TV, especially when it comes to wheezing.

In reality, an asthma attack looks more like a really bad coughing spell, one so bad that the person can’t catch their breath. It’s like an allergy attack on steroids, and the warning signs can be easily dismissed. Really bad flare-ups can last for days. In fact, this school year alone, Alexis has missed more than a week of school for breathing problems related to her asthma.

The bottom line? If I waited until I could hear Alexis wheezing every time she has an asthma attack, I would be waiting entirely too long to do anything about it.

That said, we have had such amazing support from our pediatrician and his nurses. With their guidance, we have been able to establish a daily routine for Alexis that keeps her asthma mostly controlled and, with the exception of the last few months, her emergency inhaler use to a minimum.

Finding the right providers for your kids and their needs is so important, which is why we take a month each year to make that process easier for you. Our annual Healthy Kids Guide is your directory to local pediatricians, dentists, and eye doctors. It also includes resources to keep your kids active like area trampoline and skate parks, walking trails, and more, not to mention kids fitness programs, sports training, and nutrition help.

This month’s feature articles are all about helping moms and dads make healthy lifestyle changes, from Every Successful Fitness Journey Starts With These 3 Steps to How To Be A Fitness Role Model To Your Kids.

One of the best things I did for myself in 2021 was getting connected with a health coach. I was at the end of my post-hysterectomy recovery period and needed a helping hand getting back on track. Now, I do yoga a couple of times a week, and the benefits are pretty amazing. Not only has my flexibility, strength, and stamina improved, but my stress level is also the lowest it’s been in years, even with two weeks of Covid.

As we move into the month of February, I wish all of you good health, and if you aren’t able to avoid the dreaded virus, I wish you mild symptoms and a speedy recovery.

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

Publisher Ashton Wright ashton@wiregrassparents.com (334) 714-7831 Editor DeAnne Watson editor@wiregrassparents.com Contributing Writers Kimberly Blaker Kristi Bush, LSW Dr. Dan Denney Pam Moore Kishia Saffold Kristine Sawyer, MD Sandi Schwartz

Cover Photography Lauren Poss www.lollypossphotography.com

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

Visit us at www.wiregrassparents.com

Ashton

ashton@wiregrassparents.com

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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 2022 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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Living Well with Valerie Six Steps to Finding Balance

Balance seems to be a word we hear often. A balanced lifestyle, balanced hormones, a balanced diet. But what is balance really?

Life in itself is not balanced. Loved ones pass away, divorce happens, children grow up, jobs change, hormones change, and seasons come and go.

Somewhere along the way, I think balance has become synonymous with doing it all. Being able to handle all of life's ups and downs, and doing it all with a smile on our face. As women, we were told we can do it all - have a career, maintain healthy relationships, raise the kids, keep the house clean, cook healthy meals, exercise, volunteer, don’t forget about this COVID thing, and find time to relax on top of all that.

It is no wonder so many women are left feeling stressed out, frustrated, and way out of balance.

Creating balance between the things we must do with the things we want to do is key. You can do anything you want, but you can’t do everything, especially not all at one time.

So how do we find that balance? ·Be your biggest fan. You have to like yourself. Finding that love of yourself is so important. It makes everything easier. Loving yourself like God loves you is a big step. ·Prioritize yourself. By putting yourself first, you will be able to give more, have more energy and zest for the things you really need to do. This includes eating good food, finding ways to exercise your mind and your body, and getting in touch with your spiritual side. ·What is your priority? What are the ‘must do's’ in your life right now? These will change over time. What do you have to do to support those must do’ items?

·Learn your strengths and know your weaknesses. Those things that come naturally to you. Tap into those, but also know what things you don’t like. That doesn’t mean give up on those things, but notice them without judgment.

Learn how to embrace all of you. ·Choose your battles wisely. Have I mentioned you can’t do everything all at one time? Pace yourself. Life is a marathon, not a sprint. ‘·Ask for help when you need it. Help comes in many forms. Maybe it’s from friends or family members or maybe it is more professional help learning how to prioritize those things in your life.

As a health coach, that’s what I do. I help you incorporate those lifestyle changes that are going to bring balance.

I help you produce long-term positive change in psychological, behavioral, and physiological outcomes. Incorporating lifestyle changes can be difficult to incorporate, but you don’t have to do it by yourself.

Valerie Thompson is a health coach, yoga instructor, meditator, breath instructor, and mom of two grown boys.

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TheEarlyYears Childcare Insights from Kishia Saffold

Raising Fit Kids Parents are inundated with a long list of all the things needed to raise a healthy child. But beyond just healthy eating (which sometimes can be a difficult task in itself), adequate sleep, and proper hygiene, young children also need plenty of exercise to keep their bodies and minds healthy and happy.

I know what you’re thinking! At the end of a long day, the last thing you want to do is schedule time outside to play, but did you know that exercise is literally good for the brain? Not only do physically-active students tend to have better grades, attendance, and cognitive memory, but exercise also boosts their immune systems!

In March 2020 the American Academy of Pediatrics released a report with specific recommendations for exercise: • For infants: physical movement several times a day through interactive floor-based play.

Wiregrass Parents I February 2022

• For kids age 3 to 5: three hours or more of physical activity every day.

• For kids 6 to 17 years old: 60 minutes of physical activity daily.

We know daily physical activity is necessary for building strong bones and muscles, as well as strengthening hearts and lungs. Exercise also helps young children improve their gross motor skills, like running, kicking, throwing, and swinging. Regular physical activity can greatly decrease children’s risks of becoming obese, as well as promotes better sleep.

Something I feel isn’t discussed enough are the consequences of inactive children, and I’m not talking about obesity. Children have lots of energy, and they need an outlet to burn that energy. In quality early childhood programs, children spend much of their day engaged in active

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play because they have a need to move, fidget, and wiggle.

You don’t have to schedule long walks on the trail, although that’s nice. There are little things you can do like giving chores that involve gross motor movement like vacuuming, walking the dog, or cleaning up the yard.

Parents, you don’t have to dot all the I’s and cross all the T’s in raising kids, but ensuring children are active in their younger years will help them in and out the classroom in their later years.

Kishia Saffold is the owner of Kiddie Care Learning Center in Dothan and Enterprise. She has a Masters of Business Administration from Troy University and a B.A. in Communication from Alabama State University. She is a wife to Jeffery and mother to daughter, Kiera.

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Kasey Savage Headland Elementary School

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“I might go home and question every decision I made,” she says. “but it never fails that a parent texts me and says their child said they had the best day or sends me a video of their child showing me a new skill in action. My very favorite is when a parent sends me a video of their child over the weekend just to tell me they miss and love me!

Teaching is not a job that takes much self motivation when your kids pour into you every day!”

In turn, she keeps her students motivated by making sure they feel safe and loved above everything else. She does this by making sure her students get a hug (or air hug) and a smile each morning, and by rewarding positive behavior on a regular basis.

“My kids have taught me the true definition of a pure soul,” Savage says. “I am lucky to go to work every day to be surrounded by people who have a heart of true compassion, resilience, and understanding. They teach me a different way every year to be a better version of myself.”

Brittany McCree’s daughter has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and separation anxiety, so when she started kindergarten this year they were understandably nervous, but McCree says her daughter’s teacher, Kasey Savage, has been an answer to their prayers.

“She expects her to do the things she is capable of and works with her in the areas she struggles in,” McCree says of Savage. “She has open communication with us constantly and has the kindest heart. My daughter loves her and loves going to school. She has grown so much and learned so much this year.”

Savage has been teaching at Headland Elementary for four years. She says she knew from an early age that she wanted to be a teacher.

“My choice to be a teacher was heavily influenced by the amazing teachers I had as a student.

I was blessed with countless teachers, from Kindergarten through college, who went so far beyond teaching a curriculum. These teachers were able to influence me by building a meaningful relationship with me as a person. I still to this day keep in contact with several of these teachers.”

Savage says teaching is a job that requires constant motivation. She says she’s not in this profession for fame, fortune, or glamor.

Kasey Savage received her bachelor’s degree from Huntingdon College in both elementary education and collaborative special education. She received her Master’s degree in elementary education from The University of West Alabama.

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An Inspector Calls

March 1-5 Tickets on sale February 14, $20 Cultural Arts Center; www.seact.com A young girl commits suicide and an eminently respectable British family is subject to a routine inquiry in connection with the death.

An inspector calls to interview the family, and during the course of his questioning, all members of the group are implicated in some way leading to the girl’s undoing. The family members, happy and friendly at the beginning of the evening, soon lose their good humor as the interrogation continues. Who is this inspector, and how can he presume to suspect such a well-heeled family of wrongdoing? J.B. Priestley’s 1947 play, set in 1912, is a scathing commentary on the class divisions between wealthy factory owners, and the workers.

First Saturday Family Day

Saturday, February 5, 10:30 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave., Dothan AL 36303 Offers free art activities on the first Saturday of every month for lifelong learners of all ages. Beginning February 2022, WMA plans to return to an in-person format for this program.

Dear Edwina JR

Pet and Kids Wagon Parade

Saturday, February 5, 10:30 a.m.

Solomon Park, Dothan Beads and Moonpies will fly at Solomon Park on Saturday, February 5th.

Join in the fun as the Mystics of Solomon Park take to the streets and the children’s and pet parade returns. We invite area preschool age children (up to age 6) to throw on a costume and join the Wagon Parade.

Too old for a wagon, join the fun in the Elementary Walking Float Parade.

Kids age 7 to 9 can participate in a wearable float. This category is simple and fun, just grab an old box, some art supplies and use your creativity.

No kiddos? Bring a Pet! We’re inviting pet owners to enter their dogs in the Pet Parade. This is a great way for older kids to participate in the day. $10 Entry fee per pet- the proceeds benefit the WIREGRASS HUMANE SOCIETY. Costumed pets encouraged! We will give awards in these pet costume categories: Best King, Best Queen, Best Duke, Best Duchess, Best Overall Costume.

No preschooler and no pet? Just come to watch the show! Stroll through the park and enjoy our Mystics of Solomon Park supporters. All proceeds benefit our furry friends at WIREGRASS HUMANE SOCIETY. Let the Mardi Gras fun begin! Follow these links to register as a parade participant: Pets: https://zfrmz.com/BVZdgyvl5cePov7pzqcA Kids age 1-6 with Wagons: https://zfrmz.com/9uR8shEMfQDYUtPtLagD Kids age 7-9 with Box Floats: https://zfrmz.com/PCKeDhFSfNEQh264bOqh Laissez les bon temps rouler, Dothan!

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March 24-26 in Dothan Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. Saint Andrews St, www.seact.com Wiregrass Drama Club’s Competition Ensemble takes the stage with Dear Edwina JR. about the joys of growing up.

We follow the adventures of plucky advice-giverextraordinaire, Edwina Spoonapple, as she directs the neighborhood kids in a series of buoyant production numbers for the latest edition of her weekly “Advicea-Palooza.” Working their way through a wheelbarrow full of letters from around the world, Edwina and her friends share wisdom on everything from trying new foods to making new friends.

Dothan Mardi Gras Parade

Saturday, February 26, 3:30 p.m.

Downtown Dothan www.kreweofkolosse.com Join the Krewe of Kolosse in Downtown Dothan for its annual Mardi Gras celebration.

Dozens of floats will line up at 307 Girard Avenue before winding their way through the Garden District and ending on North Foster Street. Floats will be throwing bead, candy, prize coconuts, and more! The full parade route is posted on the KOK website. Join the Dothan Downtown Group for a pre-parade tailgate and Mardi Gras Party on Foster Street starting at 2:00 p.m. www.wiregrassparents.com

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Father Daughter Banquet

Thursday. February 10, 6:00 p.m.

Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Tickets (After Feb. 3): $150 per couple, $70 Each Additional Daughter girlsincdothan.org; (333) 793-2321 Girls Inc. of Dothan will host their 27th annual Father Daughter Banquet on Thursday, February 10, 2022, at 6 p.m. at the Dothan Civic Center. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. This popular event is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the special relationship between daughters and fathers or other favorite male role models. The evening features a buffet dinner catered

by ChefKym, music by the band Los Locos and 360 Productions, dancing, photographs by Tracy Arnold, a huge balloon drop and a gift for each attendee.

Reservations are required - $130 per couple and $50 for each additional daughter. Reservations increase $20 after February 3rd. As Covid-19 continues to impact our community, masks ARE required to attend this event.

All proceeds from this event benefit Girls Inc. in fulfilling their mission of inspiring girls in the Wiregrass area to be strong, smart and bold. Reservations can be made online at https://girlsincdothan.org/fatherdaughter/ or by calling Girls Inc. at (334) 793-2321.

Harvey

March 3-5 @ 7:00 p.m. March 6 @ 2:00 p.m.

Spanish Trail Playhouse 680 2nd St., Chipley FL 32428 www.spanishtrailplayhouse.com Elwood P. Dowd insists on including his friend Harvey in all of his sister Veta’s social gatherings. Trouble is, Harvey is an imaginary six-anda-half-foot-tall rabbit. To avoid future embarrassment for her family Veta decides to have Elwood committed to a sanitarium. At the sanitarium, a frantic Veta explains to the staff that her years of living with Elwood’s hallucination have caused her to see Harvey also, and so the doctors mistakenly commit her instead of her mild-mannered brother. Only at the end does Veta realize that maybe Harvey isn’t so bad after all.

Astronomy Night

Tuesday, February 11, 6:00 p.m.

Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr.,Cost: $5 Members; $6 Scouts & Leaders (in uniform); $8 Non-members; Free Kids 5 & Under www.landmarkparkdothan.com Astronomy Night is an exciting and informative program that gives visitors a view of several stars and planets through telescopes and binoculars on the gazebo lawn. Staff members will help point out winter constellations and visitors will get the chance to experience a starry hayride and campfire.

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Looking Back: Car Seat Safety Car accidents are the leading cause of death in children over age one. In 2019, 1,053 children under 14 died in a car accident. Of these, 38 percent were not properly restrained with car seats, booster seats, or seat belts.

Being aware of car seat requirements and ensuring you place your child in a properlyinstalled car seat can prevent death or serious injury in an accident.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends all infants ride rear facing in the backseat in an infant or convertible car safety seat until they outgrow the height and weight restrictions. This should be until at least two years old for most toddlers, but some convertible seats can support up to 65 pounds. A rear-facing car seat protects against head and neck injury by taking the force of impact; when riding forward facing, the child’s head and neck are thrown forward, which can result in serious injuries.

Children can be switched to a forwardfacing seat with a harness after they outgrow the rear-facing seat. Children should remain in a car seat until they outgrow the height and weight requirements and, according to Alabama state law, until age 5 or they weigh at least 40 pounds.

Booster seats are recommended until the child is 4 feet 9 inches tall and is between nine and 12 years old. Seat belts can be used when the belt fits appropriately across the shoulder and not across the neck. Children under 13 should always ride in the backseat.

The safest place in the car is the back middle seat. The car seat can be installed with seat belts or the LATCH (lower anchors and tethers for children) system if your vehicle has this. Often the LATCH system is easier to use, but either method is equally safe. A forwardfacing seat should always use the top tether when available. Always use your car seat’s instruction manual for exact directions.

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When wearing bulky clothing such as jackets in the wintertime, take off the outer layers prior to placing the child in the car seat. This will keep the straps tight on the child, which is better protection in case of an accident. You should be able to fit two fingers but no more under the strap to ensure it is tight enough. The chest clip should be at armpit level.

Remember to always use the appropriate restraint for your child to help protect your family in the unfortunate event of a car accident.

Dr. Kristine C. Sawyer joined Dothan Pediatric Clinic in August 2017.

Dr. Sawyer is certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. She is a proud member of the Alabama Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Medical Association. Dr. Sawyer, her husband, Dr. Andrew Sawyer, and their son, William, live in Dothan.

In her free time, she likes to hike, camp, wakeboard, read, travel, and frolic with their Golden Retriever, Nora.

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Autauga County Schools Rucker Boulevard 2nd Heard Elementary Library Graders Celebrate New Year Turns into Book Cafe Mrs. Manis’ Second Graders learned about Chinese New Year and compared it to our New Year. They also folded their own fortune cookies. Then they decorated dragons and had a parade around the classroom with them! The students wrote about their fortunes and then enjoyed a fortune cookie from Panda Express!

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Holly Hill Elementary Spelling Bee Champs

Congratulations to our spelling bee winner and runner up!

Winner- Simba Liu Runner Up- Anson Zou

Mrs. Tucker transformed our Media Center into a fine dining restaurant and experience! The mood was set with table settings and the ambiance included soft playing music. This experience was all about taste testing books.

The students were seated at different tables with different topics (Non-Fiction, Biographies, Not Normal Books and books by Patricia Polacco). Students were engaged in testing/reading books to see if they would enjoy reading them.

Ozark Superintendent Fills in as Sub

Due to circumstances beyond his control, Mixon Intermediate teacher, Bethel Terry, had to be out one Friday in January. When he learned the superintendent would be his sub, he told the kids. Their responses ranged from, “What?

The SUPERINTENDENT? Is he a TEACHER?” to “I ain’t coming!”

Terry told his students they had to be there, so they could let him know if the superintendent knew what he was doing.

“After all that was said and done, he received rave reviews from a couple of them!” Terry said. One student said, “He was a very good teacher, but not as good as you.” Another one said, “He did good and was very patient with us.” Thank you, Reeivice L. Girtman, for stepping up and helping us out.”

Carroll High Student Wins Speech Competition

Bright Key Brings STEM to Selma Street

Congratulations to Riley Jordan! In December, Riley competed in the Wiregrass Preliminary Speech Competition presented by PACE. He was chosen as a finalist. He was tasked with writing a speech answering the question of what his message to society is. Riley’s speech was called “Power in the Blood”. He presented it tonight and WON FIRST PLACE and also a $3,000 scholarship.

Career Connections welcomed one of its partners, Dothan Houston County Library System, in teaching our students about building IPads/tablets. They had an amazing experience and loved programming the operating system.

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Autauga County Schools Slingluff Houston Academy 1st Graders Teacher Holds Book Cafe Students had the chance to sample books from are Super different genres in Mrs. David’s Starbooks Cafe.

They sipped hot chocolate while browsing titles Singers Mrs. Braswell’s first graders love music time with Mrs. Wells. They enjoyed learning the song “I Am a Superhero.”

I’m a superhero zooming high.

Over buildings watch

and reading recommendations from their peers to help them choose a book for independent reading.

Houston Academy Middle School Spelling Bee

Well done, Middle School spelling bee finalists and winners!!

Winner: Emily Maddox, 8th grade 2nd: Megan Hartman, 8th grade 3rd: Emmett Payne, 8th grade We are proud of your success!

me fly.

High, high, watch me fly.

I’m a superhero zooming high!

I’m a superhero sneaking low.

Where did all those bad guys go?

Low, low, where’d they go?

I’m a superhero sneaking low.

Girard Primary Student Leads Pledge at School Board Meeting

Carver Plants Research Garden

We are excited to present our George Washington Carver Research Garden--named after the famous agricultural scientist and inventor, and our school’s namesake! With the support of the Houston County Alabama Extension Office, our students were able to experience planting a strawberry patch right in our Carver MST backyard! Students will have the opportunity to cultivate and harvest the strawberries and plant new crops during the next growing season!

At the January Dothan City Board of Education meeting, we had the pleasure of having Liam Jackson from Girard Primary School present the Pledge of Allegiance. We are so proud to have students in our district like Liam and look forward to involving our students in future Board of Education meetings.

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Houston Academy Lower School Spelling Bee

Congratulations to our Lower School Spelling Bee finalists and winners! Pavithra Nallamothu (4th grade) 1st place; Ellie Alexander (3rd grade) 2nd place; Ann Louise Huskey (4th grade) 3rd place Great job to all of our spellers!

9 Houston County Students Qualify for State HOSA Competition

Rucker Boulevard Benefits from Fruit & Veggie Grant

Rucker Boulevard Elementary students are fortunate to receive fresh fruits and vegetables twice each week through the USDA Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Grant. These fresh and fast items include popular fruits and vegetables as well as exposes the students to others that they may not have tried before.

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

Give a big congratulations to these students for competing in HOSA competition and qualifying for State! Congratulations: Tori Freitag- Voting Delegate Kylie Ann Barnes- Healthy Lifestyles Sydney Wash & Faith Gates- Emergency Medical Technician (pictured) Lexi Lovvorn- Veterinary Science Chelsea Sheppard- Medical Terminology Taylor Carrol & Jocee GloverForensic Science Jenny Felipe- Physical Therapy Great job and good luck at State!

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Autauga County Schools D.A. Smith Class Project Fully Funded

Ms. Bloodworth’s Donors Choose project “Show Me the World” was fully funded for globes and atlases! They received materials on January 6 and began using them immediately! What a difference having the right visual aids makes!

Selma Street 3rd Graders Make Fossils After studying the types of fossils, Mrs. Battle’s Third Grade Paleontologists made and studied their own fossils.

Houston Academy Girls Basketball Area Champs

The Houston Academy girls basketball team improved to 6-0 in Class 3A, Area 3 play with a 56-36 win over Wicksburg Friday, January 21. HA clinched the area regular-season title and the area tournament host spot with the win.

Sara Bourkard led HA with 19 points and Camille Reeves and Mary Helen Mendheim both had 11.

Highlands Students Honor MLK

Mrs. Bouchard, Highlands Elementary’s principal, challenged students in 3rd-6th grade to write an essay on Martin Luther King, Jr. A class winner was chosen first. A winner for each grade was decided amongst the class winners. The winners for each grade read their essays at a special assembly held January 21st.

These students were chosen to read their essays: 6th Grade: Anna Clair W. 5th Grade: Chloe C. 4th Grade: Wade P. 3rd Grade: Leyrianne R. Honorable Mention: 6th Grade: Lilly M. & Matthew N. 5th Grade: Channing T. 4th Grade: Olivia JM. 3rd Grade: Addie Reece H. & Hamlin D.

Heard Elementary Science Fair Winners

Congratulations to our 4th & 5th Grade Science Fair participants!

1st Place-Which Surface is Dirtiest? Jackson G. 2nd Place-Ice Melt Down, Gabby S. 3rd Place- Magnetic Repulsion, Kaylani P. Honorable Mention-The Easy Brush, Jerian B. & LaCori A. Best Absorbing Paper-Quinton R. Best Overall Display-Ice Melt Down-Gabby S. Most Creative Idea-Unpoppable Bubbles! Parker G. Most Practical Use in Real Life-Which Surface is the Dirtiest? Jackson G. Congratulations to the following students, they will represent Heard at the District Science Fair: Jackson G., Gabby S., and Kaylani P. We are so proud of each of you!

Rucker Boulevard 3rd Graders Experience Oregon Trail Third graders spent the week reading a diary entry from a pioneer family on The Oregon Trail. They learned many facts about the times the families faced while traveling west. They had the opportunity to complete a STEM activity, creating their own covered wagons.

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Rucker Boulevard Combines PE with Literacy

Highlands Elementary Celebrates Numerous Science Fair Winners

Congratulations to all the Science Fair Winners at Highlands Elementary School!

They competed at the District Science Fair January 28th.

Slingluff 6th Grade Engineering Challenge

Here are Mr. Forrester’s sixth graders working on an engineering challenge.

They had to design and build a structure between 14-18 inches high using nothing but 4 sheets of newspaper, an 18 inch piece of masking tape, and a 12x12 inch piece of cardboard. This structure also had to be able to support a math textbook for 30 seconds. All of this within a 30 minute window!

Please email news to: schoolnews@ wiregrassparents.com!

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Take a look at RBE’s PE Scramble!

Students must do a specific exercise as they pick up letters from the middle of the floor. Once all the letters are gone, a timer is set and they begin to form words using the Scramble rules. When time is up, everyone stops working. Whoever has the most words in the correct format wins!

Olivia was born with a congenital heart defect requiring open heart surgery at 3 months old. She also required a second surgery as a teen to replace her pulmonary valve – but this time they went through a vein in her leg to insert the Harmony Transcatheter Pulmonary Valve in her heart. This less-invasive path to replacement shortened her recovery time, and she went home the next day.

Olivia was the first pediatric patient in the southeast to receive the Harmony valve, and it was here at Children’s of Alabama.

Olivia

To learn more visit ChildrensAL.org/heart

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Why Boundaries Are So Important with Devices As I travel across the country speaking, I have the wonderful pleasure of getting to know many parents and teachers.

One of the things I have always found so interesting is a teacher’s use of boundaries in the classroom. Although it varies from teacher to teacher, most every teacher will tell you that, if you do not establish firm boundaries the first week of school, students will be inclined to take advantage of looser guidance. Sometimes this can result in a bit of chaos.

The same principal applies in the home. Children tend to thrive in environments where there are clear, concise boundaries. And while it is THEIR job to test our boundaries, it is OUR job to maintain them. With today’s access to devices and social media, boundaries are more important than ever. So what might this look like in your home when it comes to setting boundaries around social media?

Here are a few tips I have recommended to parents over the years.

1) Maintain empathy for your teen.

As a general rule, the current parent generation did not grow up with the outstanding amount of social media peer pressure our children are facing today. Having empathy for your child in this space will help show them that, while you will maintain boundaries to keep them safe, you empathize with what they are experiencing. Sometimes just admitting you will never know how they feel, that it must be incredibly hard to maintain the balance between social media and friends, helps them to feel seen and heard.

Wiregrass Parents I February 2022

2) Allow for natural consequences.

This is hard. We never want to see our children fail, but failure is an incredibly important component to growth. While we want boundaries that will protect them from serious harm, we also do not want to lock them down so much that they never learn how to recover from failure. This may look like extra device time, or an app that you have approved. If they do not operate within the boundaries that you set for the device time or app, then a natural consequence could be to have the time decrease or the app removed.

3) Keep the bigger picture in mind. In

our home, if my sons are listening to music on an approved app that has some explicit language, I am okay with that. That is not a hard boundary in our home. I have also found that allowing this liberty has given my sons the freedom to want to listen to their music while in the car with me. This has created many, many opportunities for us to have open conversations about what they are listening to. Hard boundaries in our home lie more in what they are posting and saying online. Our boundaries/rules are: Do not post anything unkind, rude, or inappropriate. And they know what each of these are defined by. So for us, the big picture isn’t so much the music they are listening to but how they are treating others online.

Our “give” in the music area helps them feel they are not incredibly locked down and that they have a small win. This is just an example, and all parents have to decide what works best for their family.

4) Always be firm and consistent.

Children are built to test our patience. It is that resilience that will serve them through 14

much harder times in life. But as parents, it is also that constant resistance we get from them that makes us…well…tired.

And more prone to give in. This leads to confusion and even more push back from your child. Having clear, concise, set boundaries with consequences will give you peace…and your child guidance on what they can and cannot do.

5) Last, and so important...

Respect THEIR boundaries. During

conferences, I ask kids to name the number one thing they would ask their parents to stop doing online. Without fail they always say: STOP posting pictures of them without their permission. Ask your child before you post something with their image. This shows that you respect their boundaries, and will lead to a more trusting relationship.

Further, if you allow your child to have social media, please do not “comment” under their posts. This embarrasses them and, honestly, drives them crazy. We should definitely MONITOR what they are doing, but comments need to be left to private and in person. Like I tell parents all the time, kids have their own social media lane…Facebook is our old person lane.

And that is okay! We should all stay in our lanes. It sure does make for healthier, happier boundaries.

As always, if you need support or have questions, I am here!

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate.

She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience.

She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

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If you’re like most people, January found you energized and ready to do anything necessary to start a new fitness routine in the new year. And if you’re like most people, by February, your motivation vanishes along with the cookies you swore you wouldn’t eat. Studies show only four percent of people who join a gym in January step foot in that gym in February.

If you are one of the many who wanted this year to be different, there’s no way around it. You’re going to have to work for it. But there are three things you can do before you even lace up your sneakers to lay a foundation for success.

1| Find Your Why You’d be surprised how easy it is to figure out how you’re going to commit to your fitness journey when you know why you embarked on the mission in the first place. Ask yourself why you want to get in shape. Then ask again. And again…

Maybe even once again. You’ll know when you’re done. Once you get over the awkwardness of having a conversation with yourself, you might be surprised how powerful your “why” is. The conversation might go something like this:

Why do you want to get fit?

Because I want my jeans to fit better.

Why do you want your jeans to fit better?

So I can feel good about myself.

Why do you want to feel good about yourself? Because I want to be confident.

Why do you want to be confident?

I want to be a role model for my daughters.

Or maybe it will go something like this: Why do you want to get fit?

Because my doctor said I’m pre-diabetic and I want to live a long, healthy life

Why do you want to see if you have the strength and endurance to do it?

Because if I can finish a triathlon, I can do anything I set my mind to.

It may not be easy to keep peeling back the layers on your “why.” But the cliché is true— nothing worthwhile is easy.

Once you’re crystal clear about the source of your desire, it becomes a million times easier to say no to the snooze button or girls night, and say yes to your workout— and yourself— instead.

2| Have a Measurable Goal

Why do you want to do a triathlon?

To see if I have the strength and endurance to do it.

I love fitness. As an Ironman triathlete, an avid runner, a running coach, a spin instructor and an all-around fitness geek, it’s fair to say I am obsessed with fitness. But I can’t support a goal of simply “getting fit.”

The same goes for “getting in shape” or “toning up.”

Fitness goals must be objective and measurable. In other words, you should be able to attach numbers and dates to them.

If you have a weight loss goal, make sure it includes a number of pounds and a date. “Lose weight” becomes a long-term goal of “Lose twenty pounds by December 31st.” Once you have a long-term goal,

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Why do you want to live a long, healthy life?

Because I want to see my kids grow up.

Why do you want to see your kids grow up?

Because I love them and I want to share in their joys, sorrows, and adventures.

Or maybe it will sound more like this: Why do you want to be fit?

Because I want to try my first triathlon

add a few short-term goals to keep you motivated and to provide benchmarks of your progress.

Short-term goals might be: • Lose two pounds by March first.

• Lose ten pounds by July first.

Say your goal is to complete an event, such as your first triathlon. “I will finish a triathlon” is a measurable, objective goal, for sure. But making it as specific as possible optimizes your chance for success.

Choose a specific race, put it in on your calendar, and “finish a triathlon” becomes a long-term goal of “complete the local sprint triathlon, which requires a 300-yard pool swim, a 10-mile bike ride, and a 5k run, on August 14th.”

Short-term goals might be: • Swim 50 yards without stopping by March first.

• Bike eight miles and run one mile immediately after without stopping by July first.

Thinking of your fitness goal in measurable terms lets you determine where you need to be each month, each week, and each day to achieve it.

Wiregrass Parents I February 2022

3| Schedule Your Workouts

“A failure to plan is a plan to fail.”

Benjamin Franklin knew this was true way before we dreamed of holding tiny computers with calendars, alarm clocks, and timers in the palms of our hands. As all successful people know, what gets on the calendar gets accomplished.

Treat your workout time as you would any other appointment. Create an event on your Outlook or Google calendar, pencil it into your planner, or create an alert on your phone 20 minutes in advance. Do whatever works for you to carve out the time.

If you’re having trouble keeping your workout appointments, try a different approach. In her book, Better Than Before: Mastering the Habits of Our Everyday Lives, author and happiness expert Gretchen Rubin classifies most people as what she calls “obligers.” Obligers find it much easier to follow through on a commitment to a friend, than to themselves.

While most of us would easily hit snooze and skip the 7 am spin class, we’d never stand up the friend we promised to meet at the gym.

There’s no shame relying on external accountability to help establish a new habit. You could start by:

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• Finding a friend, neighbor, or co-worker to work out with.

• Attending classes at a group fitness studio with a strict cancellation policy. It’s hard to skip a workout you’ve already paid for • Joining a group fitness studio, running club, cycling club, masters swim team or hiking group for the community aspect. You won’t want to deal with the FOMO when you skip a workout.

• Becoming a member of an online accountability group. Or, gather your like-minded friends and create one yourself.

• Hiring a personal trainer.

Before you give up on fitness—or better yet, before you buy that fancy workout tracker and the pricey yoga pants—ask yourself the hard questions. Being honest with yourself about your fitness goals will pay dividends over the long haul as far as keeping you on your fitness path. Because once you know your Why, your What, and your When, the question of How becomes a whole lot easier to answer. WP Pam Moore is an author, occupational therapist, and certified personal trainer who helps women push through fear to become their best selves. To get her free guide to crushing Impostor Syndrome visit pam-moore.com.

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As we all know, being a parent is the most important job in the world. Our children look up to us for guidance on everything in life, even if we don’t realize it. One way that you can be a positive role model to your kids is in the area of fitness. Staying fit is critical to our health and well-being—including our mental health and happiness. We can help shape our children’s views on exercise by modeling healthy behavior and making fitness a fun part of our family’s daily routine.

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Why Exercise Is Important For Managing Stress and Anxiety Experts have found a clear link between exercise and stress reduction.

Harvard scientists concluded that “Regular aerobic exercise has a unique capacity to exhilarate and relax, to provide stimulation and calm, to counter depression and dissipate stress.” According to the Anxiety and Depression Association of America, some studies show that consistent exercise can be just as effective as medication for some people to reduce symptoms of anxiety. Other research shows that physically active people have lower rates of anxiety than those who do not exercise. In one study, researchers found that those who got regular vigorous exercise were 25 percent less likely to develop depression or an anxiety disorder over the next five years.

Here are several ways in which exercise helps reduce stress and anxiety:

Produces Endorphins. When we

exercise, our body releases feel-good neurotransmitters called endorphins. These chemicals in our brain act as natural painkillers, making us feel better and less stressed.

Endorphins are responsible for the natural high we get from a hard workout.

tional benefits of exercise. When we gain strength and begin to see a difference in our body, we feel better about ourselves and become happier and more confident.

Feeling better about ourselves shifts our focus to positive thoughts and away from fear and anxiety.

Reduces Stress Hormones. Exercise

Provides A Fun Distraction. One

reduces the level of stress hormones in our body like adrenaline and cortisol, helping us feel calmer.

Minimizes Fatigue. Exercise improves blood flow and our body’s ability to use oxygen efficiently. These changes in our brain then reduce fatigue and improve alertness, concentration, and cognitive function. This helps us when we are stressed out because we are depleted and need to return to a more balanced level of energy. When we are stressed, many nerves in our brain and throughout out body are impacted. Scientists conclude, therefore, that if our body feels better, then our mind will also feel better.

Improves Self-Esteem. Behavioral factors also contribute to the emo-

t It’s all abou

of the best parts about exercise is that it gives us a time to take a fun break from the stresses in our daily lives. Whether you are jogging to your favorite upbeat music or socializing with friends on the tennis court, your mind is distracted and you can just have a good time.

Makes Sleeping Easier. According

to Mayo Clinic, exercise can also improve how we sleep. This is great news for those suffering from insomnia due to stress and anxiety.

Encourages Mindfulness. A great

bonus of exercise is that it provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy a mindful moment. While we work out, we can fully engage in the present moment instead of letting our mind run wild with worries. To

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get the best result, experts suggest doing rhythmic activities that engage the whole body like running, walking, swimming, dancing, rowing, or climbing. Helpguide. org suggests that “as you move, instead of continuing to focus on your thoughts, focus on the sensations in your limbs and how your breathing complements your movement. If your mind wanders to other thoughts, gently return to focusing on your breathing and movement. If walking or running, for example, focus on each step—the sensation of your feet touching the ground, the rhythm of your breath while moving, and the feeling of the wind against your face.”

How To Be A Good Fitness Role Model It’s so important that we play actively with our kids from a young age and that we consistently exercise in front of them (and sometimes with them) to show them how importance physical fitness is. From going on family bike rides to coaching one of their sports teams, there are so many

helpful ways for you to be a fitness role model to your children throughout their lives. Here are some more ideas to get you moving:

Go for a hike outdoors. Not only are walks and hikes wonderful, safe exercise that the entire family can enjoy, they are also an opportunity to connect to the beauty of nature to bring you a sense of calm. Try adding some fun to your family hikes by turning them into a race or scavenger hunt, and by venturing to new parks and trails in your area and while on vacation.

Take a yoga class together. Yoga

offers so many incredible benefits to both you and our children including balance, strength training, time for inner focus, and an opportunity to connect with our bodies in ways we aren’t used to. Sign up for a yoga class that you can take together or pop in a video or load an App so you can do some yoga together in your living room, or better yet in your backyard.

Make exercise a priority even in bad weather. Show your kids that you

still go on your morning run even if it’s not sunny outside. On days when it’s cold or rainy, set up your fitness routine indoors and get your kids involved. Put on a workout video and have them join in. There are also lots of fun ways to use your indoor space to get everyone moving. Some of the easiest exercises to perform indoors include jumping rope and calisthenics like push-ups, sit ups, and jumping jacks. Or put on some peppy music and play freeze dance or have a hula hoop contest. Before you know it, you will all be working up a sweat!

Give sports-related gifts. Another way to make fitness a priority in your home is to choose gifts like workout clothes, sports equipment, and how to books about sports during birthday and holiday time. You can also choose some tickets for a sporting event and make it a fun family outing to cheer on your team together. WP

A

Ad Sandi Schwartz is an author, journalist, and mother of two. She has written extensively about parenting, wellness, and environmental issues. Her new book, Finding Ecohappiness: Fun Nature Activities to Help Your Kids Feel Happier and Calmer, comes out in the spring. Learn more at www.ecohappinessproject.com.

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Active Entertainment Adventureland Theme Park

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3738 W. Main St., Dothan, AL 36305 Mini golf, bumper boats, go karts, batting cages, and a large arcade filled with exciting games.

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Axtion Air Jump & Sports

3525 Ross Clark Cir. Ste 315, Dothan, AL 36303 Jump, climb, play. Come join us and experience over 50,000 square feet of fun at the biggest trampoline and extreme sports park in the Southeast!

(334) 446-5175 www.axtionair.com

Brothers in Arms Paintball

4197 Hwy 84 W., Enterprise, AL 36330 The area’s only regulation-sized tournament turf field. Play on either our airball field or woodsball field.

(334) 475-3058 www.biappark.com

Backroad 288 Outdoor Park and Range

4875 Co. Rd. 4, Gordon, AL 36343 Outdoor park with Rifle, Shotgun, pistol, and archery ranges. The park is only open select days which will be posted at least 30 days in advance on the Facebook page.

Enterprise Skate Park

Xtreme Air Trampoline Park

(334) 348-2686 www.enterpriseal.gov/pr-home

(334) 797-JUMP

311 E. Brunson St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Enterprise Skate Park offers a suitable, safe, and convenient location for skating complete with obstacles and rails, sidewalks and spectator seating.

Forever Wild Trails at Beaver Creek

384 Narcisse Dr., Dothan, AL 36305 A rich experience for trail lovers, mountain bikers and hikers alike. Ten-plus miles of naturallywooded trails with opportunities to hike or ride 1 to 2-mile loops or tackle the whole trail system.

(334) 615-3700 dothanleisureservices.org

Fun Zone Skate Center

465 Westgate Parkway, Dothan, AL 36303 Dothan’s safe and high-energy place for kids to unplug, socialize, and play! Roller skating, bumper cars, rock wall, laser tag and more.

(334) 678-7529 www.funzoneskatecenterdothan.com

Ozark Community Archery Range

861 Myrtle Dr., Ozark, AL 36360 Open six days a week, sunrise to sunset.

(334) 774-0588 www.ozarkalabama.us

The Oaks Disc Golf Course

2049 Sanitary Dairy Rd., Dothan, AL 36301

(352) 446-0043 facebook.com/backroad288

(334) 615-3700 dothanleisureservices.org

Circle City BMX Track

Water World Water Park

100 Recreation Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 Sanctioned under the USA BMX American Bicycle Association. One of the fastest tracks in Alabama.

1,147-foot long downhill track with a crossover.

Paved turns.

(334) 714-0212 www.circlecitybmxracing.com

Dothan Lanes

5727 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 24 lanes with automatic scoring. Party Rooms.

Arcade. Pool Tables. Youth leagues for ages 6-19 and 5 & under.

(334) 983-1585 www.dothanlanes.com

Dothan Survival Games

386 Cowarts Rd., Dothan, AL 36301 (334) 793-8202 facebook.com/dsgpaintball

401 Recreation Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 Water World Water Park is a municipal water park that includes a 450,000 gallon wave pool, a 41-foot tall sidewinder tube slide, four brand-new body slides off of a 40-foot tall tower, and a Kids Cove play area for the little ones.

(334) 615-3750 waterworlddothan.com

Westgate Competition & Wellness Pools

144 Woodburn Dr., Dothan, AL 36305 Ninja course, battle bus, foam pits, dodgeball, volleyball, basketball, kids court, inflatable park, zipline, super tramps! xtremeairtrampolinepark.com

Kids Fitness Programs & Sports Training All Zones Fastpitch Academy

1061 Geneva Hwy., Enterprise, AL 36330 Professional Instruction in Fastpitch Softball.

Pitching/Catching/Hitting/Defence. Individual & Group lessons available.

(334) 672-7259 www.allzonesfastpitchacademy.com

Camp Hammertime

3773 Ross Clark Circle, Dothan, AL 36303 Ages 5-18. Classes incorporate endurance, speed, and agility to improve athlete performance, and combine fun moves for strength, flexibility, and coordination while learning discipline and self-control.

(334) 673-4921 www.synergyhandf.com

Clutch Baseball

117 W. Church St., Headland, AL 36345 Baseball and softball training facility dedicated to personal development in areas such as hitting, pitching, throwing, catching, fielding, and conditioning. Individual and team instruction for all ages.

(334) 714-1529

www.clutchbaseballalabama.com

Development Performance Factory

131 S. Woodburn Dr. #111, Dothan, AL 36305 A sports-based comprehensive training system focused on youth with injury prevention to maximize performance.

501 Recreation Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 The Westgate Competition Pool is a USA Swimming-certified 25 yard, eight lane pool used for swim team practices, competitions, lap swim, lifeguard training, and public swim. The Westgate Wellness Pool, which is kept at a warm 88 degrees, is used for water aerobics and swimming lessons.

(334) 718-4234

(334) 615-3763 dothanleisureservices.org

(334) 500-0630 dothandr@yahoo.com

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Dothan Driving Range

7600 W. US-84, Dothan, AL 36305 Lighted full service driving range with both mats and grass. We offer lessons, club repair services, custom fittings and are authorized Ping, Callaway, and Cleveland/Srixon club fitters.

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Dothan Hoops Basketball Training

128 S. Woodburn Dr., Dothan, AL 36305 Basketball training for youth ages 5-18, including instruction in shooting, passing, ball handling, strategic understanding and court awareness at the beginning, intermediate, and advanced levels.

(334) 648-0629 contact@dothanhoops.com www. dothanhoops.com

European Soccer Academy

131 S. Woodburn Dr., Dothan, AL 36305 Teaching individual players the fundamentals and advanced knowledge of skills and tactical aspects of Soccer while helping them grow within their own ability.

(334) 718-3361 esa1912@gmail.com facebook.com/ESA1912

111 Connor St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Our coaches will build solid functional patterns that will benefit participants in life, whether it’s sports related or just learning to stay healthy and active throughout their lives. www.crossfitfxt.com

Grounded Kids Yoga

156 N. Foster St., Dothan, AL 36303 This program encourages students to reach for the wisdom within themselves and connect with their bodies to feel empowered and confident.

(334) 671-2050

1063 Geneva Hwy., Enterprise, AL 36330 The LINK VBA wishes to instill in its members that each player is significant, valuable, and important to a team. Services provided: Volleyball Individual and Groups Lessons, Camps, Clinics, Plyometrics and Agilities, Leadership & Character Training (334) 360-5233 thelinkvba@gmail.com thelinkvba.com

Ultimate Sports Academy

2026 Campbelton Hwy, Rehobeth, AL 36301 We offer baseball and softball players a indoor facility to work on their hitting and pitching, as well as their fielding. We have 4 batting cages and 2 full size pitching lanes and we offer one on one personal instruction.

(334) 797-6041 www.ultimatesportsacademy-dothan.com

FXT Kids

(334) 797-5129

The Link Volleyball Academy

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Hard Knocks Baseball

39 Gateway Dr., Midland City, AL 36350 Indoor Batting Facility, Lessons, Memberships (478) 244-0627 hardknocksdothan.com

LYFE Kids

299 Hutchinson St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Through the LYFE KIDS program, your child can learn to live a life of fulfillment through active play, fitness, teamwork, and nutrition.

(334) 494-6676 www.lyfeperformance.com

Martin Athletics

1861 Ross Clark Cir. Suite 3, Dothan, AL 36301 A Baseball/Softball training facility built around a few key ideals. Lessons include batting, fielding, throwing, strength and agility, and pitching.

Services include individual lessons and team practices.

(334) 790-0384 www.martinathletics.com

Perfekt Kraft

Our goal is to create a long-term success rate for athletes to help them gain better opportunities in class and their sport.

Wiregrass Performance Institute

A not for profit organization created to inspire, educate, and improve the physical, mental, and social well-being of youth athletes. wiregrassperformanceinstitute@gmail.com facebook.com/WiregrassPerformanceInstitute

Wiregrass Sports Academy

630 Twitchell Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 Wiregrass Sports Academy is an indoor/outdoor baseball/softball/speed and agility training facility. We offer professional baseball/softball instruction.

(334) 798-4784 wsabaseball@hotmail.com facebook.com/Wiregrass-Sports-Academy-76596770877

Meal Prep & Nutrition Valerie’s Health & Wellness ad on page 3

Dothan, AL Ages 35-65 are the most difficult for women. Being productive about your health is crucial! Your risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure & breast cancer increase. Finding balance between family, work & home is hard.

Less stress-that the goal! valdthomp@gmail.com linktr.ee/Valhealthcoach

Dr. Ken’s Nutrition & Health Foods

3201 Montgomery Hwy. Ste 8, Dothan, AL 36303 (334) 673-0881

Enterprise Health Foods

600 Boll Weevil Cir. Suite 4, Enterprise, AL 36330 Health foods, vitamins and minerals, herbal supplements, natural medicines and dietary supplements.

(334) 347-4796 www.enterprisehealthfood.com

Power Performance Sports Academy

Enterprise Nutrition

(334) 379-7894 bj9263@icloud.com

Sandlot

1003 Wheat St., Dothan, AL 36303 Baseball/softball practice facility with no strings attached. Train on your own, with a parent, or with a coach/instructor.

(850) 258-4767 www.sandlotofdothan.com

SOPRO Baseball and Softball

1600 Mance Newton Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 Training and development organization focused on development and providing competition opportunities for our athletes.

(334) 701-2844 www.soprosports.com

Wiregrass Parents I February 2022

3 Westpoint Court, Ste F, Enterprise, AL 36330 Fast food for healthy people!

(334) 406-0964 enterprisenutrition@yahoo.com

2323 W. Main St. Suite 105, Dothan, AL 36301 Health food store, Vegetarian/Vegan restaurant, and specialty grocery store (334) 699-1414 growingevesgarden@gmail.com

2031 S. Brannon Stand Rd., Ste. 1, Dothan, AL 36305 We specialize in to-go food, catering, gift baskets, and kitchen and home retail items.

(334) 479-0367

gourmethandmade.com

Jan’s Health Foods

3500 Ross Clark Cir. Suite 120, Dothan, AL 36303 Natural vitamins, minerals, herbs, antioxidants, proteins, and much more.

(334) 677-8333 janetsmkx@gmail.com

Katie Newton Nutrition Consulting

1816 W. Main St., Dothan, AL 36303 Katie Newton Consulting, LLC provides initial nutrition consultations, individual focused meal planning, dedicated support & accountability.

(334) 714-3037 katie@katienewtonconsulting.com www.katienewtonconsulting.com

Lean Bean Chef

Dothan, AL Healthy Meal Prep, Weekly Family Meals, Meal Planning, Private Cooking Classes, Dinner Parties and Education. Specializing in Gluten-free, Paleo, Plant-based and Vegetarian Diets (334) 400-9000 leanbeanchef@gmail.com www.leanbeanchef.com

Max Muscle Nutrition

3230 Ross Clark Cir. Suite 2, Dothan, AL 36303 Nutrition supplements for weight loss, muscle gain and healthy lifestyles. Max One Nutrition, supplements, vitamins and nutrition plans.

(334) 671-1231 maxonenutritiondothan@gmail.com max-one-nutrition-dothan.business.site

Nourished Nutrition Counseling

3113 Wesley Way Suite 2, Dothan, AL 36305 Professional, evidenced-based nutrition guidance for your unique needs.

(334) 699-8175 nourishedsoutheast.com

Southern Nutrition

104 Rock Bridge Rd., Ste. 2, Dothan, AL 36303 Your one stop shop in Dothan for premier sports nutrition, vitamins, supplements, body composition analysis, weight loss, and healthy meals.

The Byrd Feeder

1971 S. Brannon Stand Rd. Ste 6, Dothan, AL 36305 Meal Prep, Catering, Family Casseroles, Dips (334) 791-0877

www.thebyrdfeedermeals.com

Vibe Nutrition

3681 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 We make delicious & Healthy Smoothies, Energy Teas, and Aloe Shots to help you lose weight, boost energy, gain muscle, or enjoy as a perfect meal replacement.

Vision Nutrition

126 S. Alice St., Ste 5, Dothan, AL 36301 Healthy shakes, Energy teas, Fat burner shots, Protein snacks, GREAT vibes (334) 718-4440

Fresh Kitchen

Dothan, AL Convenient, ready to eat meals + catering made from scratch.

(334) 689-5260

Gourmet Handmade

(334) 200-4202 facebook.com/vibenutritiondothan

Eve’s Garden

www.freshkitchendothan.com

GetFit Nutrition

808 Boll Weevil Cir., Enterprise, AL 36330 We are a nutrition club offering protein balanced

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(334) 406-4266

(334) 446-4004 www.SouthernNutrition.com

(334) 796-7917 facebook.com/PerfektKraftLLC

Taylor, AL Sports Academy for softball/baseball. We teach a rotational power swing. Fundamentals of fielding/throwing. Conditioning program coming soon.

shakes, 1 on 1 coaching, at home products, workouts, full skin care line, & community.

facebook.com/VisionNutritionDothan

Wave Nutrition

1209 Ross Clark Circle, Ste 3, Dothan, AL 36303 Your local healthy fast food! We offer: Smoothies, Energizing Teas, Pre & Post Workout Nutrition, and Wellness Coaching. Come as you are! Leave Happier & Healthier.

(334) 798-1100 facebook.com/wavedothan

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Parks & Rec Centers Alfred Peavy Park

805 Bellwood Rd., Enterprise, AL 36330 Ballfields, Soccer Fields, Playground (334) 348-2684 www.enterpriseal.gov/pr-home

Andrew Belle Community Center

1270 Lake St., Dothan, AL 36303 The recreation center includes a gymnasium, club room, computer/homework room, and game room. The outdoor amenities include ballfields, a swimming pool and splash pad, outdoor basketball court, tennis courts, and playground.

(334) 615-4720 dothanleisureservices.org

Autry Recreation Center

749 W. Reynolds St., Ozark, AL 36360 (334) 774-2523 www.ozarkalabama.us

Donaldson Park

301 N. Industrial Blvd., Enterprise, AL 36330 Playground, Softball and Baseball Fields, Pond, Walking Trail

Enterprise YMCA

904 Hwy 27, Enterprise, AL 36330 Jogging Trail, Tennis Courts, Gymnasium, Soccer, Basketball, Gymnastics, Outdoor Pool, and Adult Bridge. Exercise rooms, aerobics, fitness evaluations, locker rooms, and nursery.

(334) 347-0214 www.enymca.org

Johnny Henderson Park

1901 Neil Metcalf Rd., Enterprise, AL 36330

(334) 348-2684 www.enterpriseal.gov/pr-home

Enterprise Parks and Recreation Department 2401 Neil Metcalf Rd., Enterprise, AL 36330

(334) 348-2684 www.enterpriseal.gov/pr-home

Westgate Recreation Center and Park

501 Recreation Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 The recreation center includes a gymnasium, indoor pool, weight room, meeting rooms and a kitchen. Outdoor amenities include a 3.3-mile walking/jogging trail interwoven with a bike trail, Soccer Complex, Dixie Youth Complex, Northcutt Athletic Complex, Miracle Field Complex and Playground, and Kiwanis Park and .55-mile trail.

Also, on the grounds of Westgate Park is the Tennis Center Complex, the Adult Softball Complex, and the BMX Track.

(334) 615-3760 dothanleisureservices.org

Westside Community Park

Moose Hope Gymnasium

311 Brunson St., Enterprise, AL 36330

1300 W. College St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Gazebo Area, Pavilion, Playground

(334) 348-2684 www.enterpriseal.gov/pr-home

(334) 348-2684 www.enterpriseal.gov/pr-home

Oben Everett Park

Wiregrass Recreation Center

Ozark, AL 36360 2 lighted basketball courts, playground, and covered pavillion with picnic area. Located at the corner of Andrews Ave. and College St. (334) 774-2618 www.ozarkalabama.us

620 6th Ave., Dothan, AL 36301 The recreation center includes a gymnasium, weight room, and meeting rooms. Outdoor amenities include softball fields, a swimming pool, playground, and nine lighted hard-surface tennis courts.

(334) 348-2684 www.enterpriseal.gov/pr-home

Perry Recreation Center

(334) 615-4740 dothanleisureservices.org

Doug Tew Therapeutic Recreation Center

(334) 774-2523 www.ozarkalabama.us

Pediatricians

300 Garland St., Dothan, AL 36301 The recreation center includes a gymnasium, auditorium, kitchen, and three classrooms. The outdoor amenities include five ballfields, a swimming pool, and a playground/picnic area.

(334) 615-3720 leisureservices@dothan.org dothanleisureservices.org

Eastgate Gym

406 Ben St., Ozark, AL 36360 (334) 774-2523 civic@ozarkalabama.us www.ozarkalabama.us

Eastgate Park and Lodge

2049 Sanitary Dairy Rd., Dothan, AL 36301 The lodge includes meeting rooms, catering kitchen, and offices. The Outdoor amenities include a covered pavilion, archery range, ballfields, disc golf course, dog park, playground, pickleball/ tennis courts, two ponds, boardwalk, and 2-mile walking trail.

(334) 615-3730 dothanleisureservices.org

240 James St., Ozark, AL 36360

Police Memorial Park

Andrews Ave., Ozark, AL 36360 Baseball/softball fields, lighted basketball court, lighted tennis courts, athletic field, picnic areas, playground, and covered pavilion. Located off Andrews Ave. (334) 774-2618 www.ozarkalabama.us

All South Urgent Care ad on page 7

4585 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 (334) 340-2600 www.allsouthurgentcare.com

1052 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36303

(334) 699-3600 www.allsouthurgentcare.com

Steagall Park

Peacock Pkwy., Ozark, AL 36360 Picnic pavilions, playground, splash pad, baseball/ softball fields, tennis courts, basketball court, and Kidzone playground.

(334) 774-2618 www.ozarkalabama.us

Walton Park Recreation Center

122 Walton Park Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 The recreation center includes a gymnasium, weight room, and meeting rooms. Outside amenities include ballfields, a swimming pool, lighted hard-surface tennis/pickleball courts, a playground, a covered pavilion and a .66-mile walking trail.

(334) 615-4710 dothanleisureservices.org

Dothan Pediatric Clinic ad on page 8

126 Clinic Drive, Dothan, AL 36303

(334) 793-1881 www.dothanpediatricclinic.com

Dothan Pediatric Subspecialty Clinic ad on page 8

5565 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303

(334) 699-3733 www.dothanpediatricsubspecialty.com

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526 Boll Weevil Cir., Enterprise, AL 36330

(334) 308-1166 www.enterprisepediatricclinic.com

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(334) 774-7610 www.dalemedical.org

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1519 E. Andrews Ave., Ozark, AL 36360

StatMed Family Medical Center

Bender Eye Care

(334) 774-7572 www.dalemedical.org

(334) 347-2732 www.bendereyecareclinic.com

Enterprise Children’s Center and Family Medicine

Dothan Optometric Clinic

6020 Boll Weevil Cir., Enterprise, AL 36330

633 S. Union Ave., Ozark, AL 36360

Eufaula Pediatric Clinic ad on page 8

323 E. Barbour St., Eufaula, AL 36027

334-619-0940 www.eufaulapediatricclinic.com

(334) 393-5437 www.sarhaonline.com

Sheridan Pediatric Services

2125 W. Roy Parker Rd., Ozark, AL 36360

(334) 793-8722 www.southeasthealth.org

(334) 445-7337 www.ozarkpediatricclinic.com

Southeastern Pediatrics (334) 794-8656 southeasternpediatrics.com

Abbeville Family Health Center

615 Ozark Rd., Abbeville, AL 36310

(334) 585-1171 www.sarhaonline.com

ACOM Ashford Clinic

415 Midland St., Ashford, AL 36312

(334) 899-3363 www.southeasthealth.org

Primary Care of Southwest Georgia 360 College St., Blakely, GA 39823 (229) 723-2660 www.pcswga.org

StatMed Family Medical Center

808 B. Donnell Blvd., Daleville, AL 36362 (334) 599-0235 www.dalemedical.org

1623 W. Main St., Dothan, AL 36301

(334) 793-9607 www.drronsealock.com

Murray Vision Source

550 John D. Odom Rd., Dothan, AL 36303

Southeast Health Enterprise Clinic

101 Professional Lane, Enterprise, AL 36330

(334) 699-5999 www.murrayvisionsource.com

(334) 347-3404 www.southeasthealth.org/enterprise

Vision & Eye Health

20/20 Eye Care

2464 W. Main St. Suite 3, Dothan, AL 36301

(334) 792-2020 www.2020eyecaredothan.com

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2800 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36301

Arch Counseling

Vision Center South

(334) 714-6494 susan@archcounseling.org www.archcounseling.org

151 E. Main St., Dothan, AL 36301

Child and Family Services

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1936 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36301

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(334) 793-2211 www.eyecentersouth.net

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607 Boll Weevil Cir., Enterprise, AL 36330 (334) 347-6599 www.visioncentersouth.net

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View the night sky with telescopes, guided night walks, a campfire, snacks and wagon rides. Meets several Astronomy Badge requirements for scouts. $5 for park members; $6 for scouts and leaders in unifrom; $8 for nonmembers.

Free for kids 5 and under. Due to limited space, no planetarium shows will take place at this Astronomy Night.

Landmark Park • 430 Landmark Dr. • 334-794-3452 • www.landmarkparkdothan.com

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2330 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 127 S. Court Square, Ozark, AL 36360

Astronomy Night at Landmark Park Feb. 11, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.

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Dr. Ron Sealock

1108 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36301

ad on page 17

364 Honeysuckle Rd., Dothan, AL 36305

(334) 794-8797 www.dothaneyes.com

105 E. Watts St., Enterprise, AL 36330

Ozark Pediatric Clinic ad on page 8

206 Medical Care Way, Dothan, AL 36303

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Counseling Services of Dothan

1450 Ross Clark Cir. Suite 3, Dothan, AL 36301 (334) 794-2113 csdothan.org

Dothan Behavioral Medicine Clinic 101 Medical Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 (334) 702-7222

dbmclinic.com

Dothan Professional Counseling Services, LLC

285 N. Foster St. Suite 306, Dothan, AL 36303 (334) 701-4486 jenecompton.wixsite.com/mysite

Dover Counseling Services

Providing a Place where the Lightbulb will Shine Bright!

Enlighten specializes in School Consultation, Behavior Reduction, Social Skills, Verbal Acquisition, and Occupational Therapy.

1311 Rucker Blvd., Enterprise, AL 36330 (334) 417-0212 amy@dovercounselingservices.com dovercounselingservices.com

Hayes Counseling Services

1 8 8 0 S U n i o n Av e S t e C , O z a r k , A l a b a m a ( 3 3 4 ) 4 4 3 - 1 0 4 3 admin@enlightenbehavioralconsulting.com

5565 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 (334) 790-2489 www.hayescounseling.net

Oz Psychology

299 Painter Ave., Ozark, AL 36360 (334) 443-0848 ozpsychology.com

Pathways Professional Counseling

325 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36303 603 E. McKinnon St., New Brockton, AL 36351 4151 Andrews Ave, Ozark, AL 36360 (866) 991-6864 www.pathwaysprofessional.org

SpectraCare

440 Honeysuckle Rd., Dothan, AL 36305 (334) 673-2143 www.spectracare.org

Wiregrass Wellness Center

201 Regency Court, Dothan, AL 36305

(334) 673-8869 www.wiregrasswellnesscenter.com WP

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FamilyCalendar Tuesday February 1

Mug It! (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate Branch, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 and Ashford Branch, 305 6th Ave. Asford, AL, 36312 Stop by the Westgate or Ashford Branch to pick up a Mug IT! kit. This program is for ages 13-23. Recipes will be available in our Youth Services Library while supplies last. If you do not have a mug, we will provide one for you. Staff reserves the right to limit the quantity given out at any one time. www.dhcls.org Studio Class: Shadow Puppetry (Members $45; Non-Members $55)

4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 In this workshop, Orran Scruggs will give the students the basics of creating characters, giving them movement, and telling a story through shadow puppetry. Ages 8-18. Dates: February 1, 8, and 15. www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Wednesday February 2

Dive into Diversity: Pingxi Lantern Festival (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, Dothan, AL Celebrate Taiwan’s Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival. Small lantern crafts are available for pickup from all locations. Supplies are limited!

Story will go live at 10:30 AM on our Facebook page. www.dhcls.org

Thursday February 3

Crafty Teen: Sugar Scrubs (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate Branch, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Hey Teens! Drop by the Westgate Branch to make this month’s project. This month, we will make sugar scrubs at the Westgate Library. Registration is required for this project and is for ages 13-18. www.dhcls.org Harry Potter Book Night Kits (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, Dothan, AL Celebrate 25 Years of Harry Potter magic! www.dhcls.org

Thursday February 3

Upscale Resale for Kids (Admission Free) 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., 3108 Ross Clark Cir. Dothan, AL, 36303 Upscale Resale For Kids is a twice a year consignment event in Dothan. We have a huge amount of Boutique overstocks and NEW items! www.upscaleresaleforkids.com

Friday February 4

Upscale Resale for Kids (Admission Free) 9:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m., 3108 Ross Clark Cir. Dothan, AL, 36303 Upscale Resale For Kids is a twice a year consignment event in Dothan. We have a huge amount of Boutique overstocks and NEW items! www.upscaleresaleforkids.com

Saturday February 5

Cancer Freeze 7:00 a.m. Lake Jackson, Florala, AL Celebrating 16years of Freezin For A Reason! Helping 8 families for 2022. Pancake breakfast, 5k walk/run, bass tournament, car show, bake sale, chili cook-off, raffle, live auction, food, fun for kids, and more!

Wiregrass Parents I February 2022

Upscale Resale for Kids (Admission Free) 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., 3108 Ross Clark Cir. Dothan, AL, 36303 Upscale Resale For Kids is a twice a year consignment event in Dothan. We have a huge amount of Boutique overstocks and NEW items! www.upscaleresaleforkids.com Pet and Kids Wagon Parade ($10 Entry Fee per Pet) 10:30 a.m. Solomon Park, 1815 Choctaw St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Preschool-age children (up to age 6) are invited to join the Wagon Parade. Kids age 7 to 9 can participate in the Walking Float Parade. Pet owners can enter their dogs in the Pet Parade. Costumes encouraged. Proceeds benefit Wiregrass Humane Society.

First Saturday Family Day (Free) 10:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 First Saturday Family Day, one of WMA’s longest-running educational programs, offers free art activities on the first Saturday of every month for lifelong learners of all ages. Beginning February 2022, WMA plans to return to an in-person format for this program.

(334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Sunday February 6

Mini Family Food Truck Event 12:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m., Dothan Athletic Club, 3509 Montgomery Hwy Dothan, AL Monthly event organized by the Alabama Food Truck Association. Great gathering with a variety of vendors for great shopping and delicious foods!

Monday February 7

Book Bites with Kim Carroll (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate Branch, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join nutrition educator Kim Carroll as she presents nutrition storytime series that is best suited for kids in kindergarten through 4th grade. Each child will need to complete a short assessment before and after the sessions are completed and will receive nutrition reinforcement items that they can take home with them. www.dhcls.org

Tuesday February 8

Studio Class: Shadow Puppetry (Members $45; Non-Members $55)

4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 In this workshop, Orran Scruggs will give the students the basics of creating characters, giving them movement, and telling a story through shadow puppetry. Ages 8-18. Dates: February 1, 8, and 15. www.wiregrassmuseum.org Write Night (Free) 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Write Night: Open Mic Night provides an open platform to share original poetry, prose, skits, and more. Works can be individual or collaborative and should not exceed five minutes in length when presented.

(334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org

kits provide everything you will need. Kits are for kids and teens ages 7-18, one per person, please. Available at all DHCLS locations while supplies last. Staff reserves to right to limit kits at any given time. www.dhcls.org

Thursday February 10

Professor Ballyhoo Dinner Show 6:30 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Southern Broadway Dinner Theater, 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 You’ll find yourself stepping back in time as you get a taste of what a real-life Wild West medicine show was all about. Professor Cornelius Ballyhoo, Mississippi Slim, and Ada Belle travel the west touting their magical elixirs and potions. www.southernbroadway.com Teen Nature Club (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Grades 6-10. We will do a deep dive into topics like wildlife, forestry, water quality, and more. Each session will include a hands-on activity that will encourage the students to gain a deeper understanding of the natural world around them and to practice good environmental stewardship. Registration is required.

All supplies will be provided. www.dhcls.org Virtual Artist Talk: Gary Chapman (Free) 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us as we meet Artist Gary Chapman on Zoom to discuss a retrospective of his body of work spanning several decades.

(334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org Father Daughter Banquet ($150 per Couple, $70 Additional Daughters)

6:00 p.m. Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Celebrate the special relationship between daughters and fathers or other favorite male role models. The evening features a buffet dinner, music and dancing, photographs by Tracy Arnold, a huge balloon drop and a gift for each attendee.

Reservations are required. Masks required.

(334) 793-2321 girlsincdothan.org/fatherdaughter/

Friday February 11

Astronomy Night (Members $5; Scouts/Leaders (in uniform) $6; Non-members $8; 5 & Under Free)

6:00 p.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 An informative program that gives visitors a view of several stars and planets through telescopes and binoculars on the gazebo lawn. Staff members will help point out winter constellations and visitors will get the chance to experience a starry hayride and campfire. www.landmarkparkdothan.com Winter Wonderland Father Daughter Banquet

(Tickets: $100 per Couple; First Additional Child $30; Second Additional Child $20)

Hot Cocoa Bomb Kits: Valentine’s Day Edition

6:30 p.m. First United Methodist Church, 217 Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Come enjoy an evening in a Winter Wonderland complete with dinner, dancing, and a photo opportunity. Attire: semi-formal for dads, Sunday Best or Party Dress for girls. Proceeds benefit Coffee Co. Habitat for Humanity.

(334) 208-1108 bamaavery94@gmail.com

Library System, Dothan, AL Learn how to make hot cocoa bombs with our DIY Valentine’s Day kits. These

Professor Ballyhoo Dinner Show Details February 10.

Wednesday February 9

(Free) 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co.

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FamilyCalendar Suites & Sweets (Tickets $25) 7:30 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 Featuring a String Quartet of Professional players, the Tri-State Community Orchestra’s Annual Fundraising Concert, “Suites & Sweets”, is scheduled for February 11th at 7:30 PM. This will be held at the Cultural Arts Center as a formal concert including desserts donated by orchestra members and community businesses.

(334) 699-ARTS (2787) sites.google.com/tristatecommunityorchestra.org/tcodothan

Saturday February 12

Toddler Tales: Love ($20 per child) 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., All About Art, 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Class is designed to be a family experience, with story time and a related art project for toddlers and their care givers. Light toddler friendly refreshments will be provided.

(334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com Pickin in the Park (Adults $4, Kids $3) 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Musicians are invited to bring their instruments and join in an instrumental jam session featuring bluegrass, gospel and country music. All skill levels and ages are welcome. Free admission with instrument. www.landmarkparkdothan.com Sit and Sew (Adults $4, Kids $3) 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Hosted by the Evening Star Quilt Guild, you are invited to bring your textile based crafts to the Auditorium on the third Saturday of the month anytime between 10 a.m.- 2 p.m. for

an informal sewing circle. Space is limited to due to social distancing restrictions, first come first served. www.landmarkparkdothan.com Cookies and Canvas: Love Birds ($20 for 11X14 and $35 per 16X20 Canvas) 1:00 p.m. - 2:30 p.m., All About Art, 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 We provide delicious cookies and lemonade along with Step by Step instruction on a kids-friendly canvas painting.

This class is best for Elementary age and up. Can be done individually or with a partner (mom and me).

(334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com Valentine’s Street Dance 6:00 p.m. Columbia, AL Grab your sweetheart and meet us on a Main St. for another night of great music, food, friends, and fun!

Professor Ballyhoo Dinner Show Details February 10.

2022 Mardi Gras Ball (Tickets $75) 7:00 p.m. Celebration at Jones Crossing, 5918 Fortner St. Dothan, AL, 36305 Krewe de Fete and Krewe of Krawe are bringing the Mardi Gras Ball back for 2022!

Tickets include dinner and one drink ticket. Must be 21 to attend. Dress is cocktail or formal. Mardi Gras masks are required. krewedefete.dothan@gmail.com

Monday February 14

Book Bites with Kim Carroll (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate Branch, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join nutrition educator Kim Carroll as she presents nutrition storytime series that is best suited

for kids in kindergarten through 4th grade. Each child will need to complete a short assessment before and after the sessions are completed and will receive nutrition reinforcement items that they can take home with them. www.dhcls.org

Tuesday February 15

Studio Class: Shadow Puppetry (Members $45; Non-Members $55)

4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 In this workshop, Orran Scruggs will give the students the basics of creating characters, giving them movement, and telling a story through shadow puppetry. Ages 8-18. Dates: February 1, 8, and 15. www.wiregrassmuseum.org 7 Bridges: The Ultimate Eagles Experience

(Tickets: $25 Adults; $15 Seniors/Active Military/Students; $10 Kids Under 12) 7:30 p.m. Dothan Civic Center, 126 N.

St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 7 Bridges : The Ultimate EAGLES Experience is a stunningly accurate tribute to the music of the Eagles. Using no backing tracks or harmonizers, 7 Bridges faithfully re-creates the experience of an Eagles concert from the band’s most prolific period.

(334) 615-3175 www.dothanciviccenter.org

Wednesday February 16

Giant Scrabble for Teens 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!

(334) 503-9119

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Thursday February 17

Art After Hours (Tickets $5, Members Free) 5:30 p.m. - 8:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Come wander the galleries, have a drink at the cash bar, and take in art on view. You might even have a chance to speak with one of the exhibiting artists or try your hand at an ingallery activity. Enjoy live music in the galleries from a range of local musicians. Masks are recommended.

(334) 794-3871 www.wiregrassmuseum.org The Greatest Love of All: A Tribute to Whitney Houston (Tickets $45) 7:00 p.m. Enterprise High School Performing Arts Center, 1801 Boll Weevil Cir. Enterprise, AL, 36330 The critically-acclaimed live concert honoring the talent, music and memory of Whitney Houston.

Featuring the breathtaking vocals of Belinda Davids accompanied by fabulous 6-piece band and dancers , this is a beautifully crafted tribute to one of the worlds most revered singers.

(334) 406-2787 www.coffeecountyartsalliance.com

Friday February 18

Spaghetti Fundraiser (Plates $7 each) 11:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Rotary Miracle Complex Parking Lot, Dothan, AL, 36303 The Dothan Leisure Services Therapeutic Recreation program will sponsor a spaghetti fundraiser. Funds will benefit the annual Family Fun Day (a day for intellectually and physically challenged individuals and their immediate families.)

Dine-in or carry-out available. Delivery available in Dothan city limits for 20 or more plates. alowe@dothan.org dothanleisureservices.org

Saturday February 19

Polar Plunge (Registration: $30 w/ T-shirt; $15 w/out T-shirt) 9:00 a.m. Ozark City Pool, 453 Martin St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Community walk followed by Polar Plunge. Walk is free to participate in. Hot cocoa and coffee provided. Register at Perry Recreation Center Monday-Friday 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

(334) 774-2523 Georgia Arbor Day ($5 Park Pass) 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA, 39823 Join Georgia Forestry Commission and Smokey Bear at the day use area. We will discuss the importance of planting trees, the goals of GFC and how Smokey came about. Kids will get to see large equipment up close and help us plant a tree at noon.

Sunday February 20

Stand Together Tour 7:00 p.m. Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Now is the time to Stand Together, united by a night of music! Join us for The Stand Together Tour with Newsboys, Danny Gokey, Mac Powell and Adam Agee to worship with a shared purpose.

(334) 615-3175 www.dothanciviccenter.org

Wednesday February 23

I Spy Sensory Bottles (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, Dothan, AL Come by any of our locations and pick up a take-home I Spy sensory bottle. Sensory bottles are designed for babies and toddlers 0-4.

Supplies are limited and will be available while supplies last. Pick-up is not available for large groups or daycares. One kit per family, please. www.dhcls.org

Thursday February 24

Teen Nature Club (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Grades 6-10. We will do a deep dive into topics like wildlife, forestry, water quality, and more. Each session will include a hands-on activity that will encourage the

Wiregrass Parents I February 2022

students to gain a deeper understanding of the natural world around them and to practice good environmental stewardship. Registration is required.

All supplies will be provided. www.dhcls.org

kindergarten through 4th grade. Each child will need to complete a short assessment before and after the sessions are completed and will receive nutrition reinforcement items that they can take home with them. www.dhcls.org

Professor Ballyhoo Dinner Show Details February 10.

Every Monday

Friday February 25

Girl Scout Cookie Drive-Thru 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., WDFX Fox Dothan, 2221 Ross Clark Cir. Dothan, AL, 36301 Stock up on all your favorite cookies! Cars can pull up and buy cookies from Girl Scouts without ever having to get out of their vehicle. Contactless cookie payment options will also be available like card readers and safe ways for cash payments.

Saturday February 25

Heather Land Live - The Age Gap Tour (Tickets: $35-$100) 8:00 p.m. The Crossing at Big Creek Alabama, 11295 US-231 S. Dothan, AL, 36301 Comedienne, author, and singer Heather Land tells it like it is with sarcasm and Southern charm. People are in love with her smart-alecky comedic wit that fuels her hysterical filter-faced “I Aint Doin it” videos. heatherlandofficial.com Pre-Parade Tailgate & Mardi Gras Party 2:00 p.m. Downtown, Dothan, AL

www.kreweofkolosse.com

3:30 p.m.

Downtown, Dothan, AL Beads.

Candy. Prize Coconuts.

And More!

CSI Dothan 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Dothan, AL Think you could solve a murder case? Experience life as a Crimescene Investigator in this thrilling outdoor murder mystery event. Use forensic techniques, codebreaking, and good old-fashioned detective work to crack the case in this limited ticket event… www.cluedupp.com/products/csi-dothan-al Red Hot Chili Cook-Off (Entry Fee: $35 per Team) 4:30 p.m. - 11:30 p.m., Downtown, Ozark, AL Come join us for our first annual Red Hot Chili Cook-Off! Enter your favorite concoction and compete against other secret recipes. Entry form and rules available at the Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce, Ozark Cigars/ Benchmark, and Lillimaggs Butts & Beverages. Cash prizes & awards, live music, cruise-in and family fun! info@thewmaa.org Professor Ballyhoo Dinner Show Details February 10.

Forever Johnny Cash - The Musical Tribute 8:00 p.m. Dothan Opera House, 115 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 “Forever Johnny Cash” is an electrifying, toe-tapping trip down memory lane with all of Johnny’s timeless hits like “Folsom Prison Blues,” “Ring of Fire,” “I Walk the Line,” “A Boy Named Sue” and more, delivered with high energy and a modern flare. www.dothanciviccenter.org

Monday February 28

Book Bites with Kim Carroll (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 4:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library Westgate Branch, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join nutrition educator Kim Carroll as she presents nutrition storytime series that is best suited for kids in

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Every Tuesday

Ballroom Dance Lessons ($2 per person) 6:30 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301(501) 766-4845

Every Tuesday & Thursday

Professor Ballyhoo Dinner Show Details February 10.

Dothan Mardi Gras Parade

Virtual Story Time 12:30 p.m. Headland Public Library, 17 Park St. Headland, AL, 36345 Join us every Monday on Facebook for a live reading of your favorite book!

(334) 693-2706

Zumba Classes ($20 per month) 6:00 p.m. Enterprise Recreation Center, 421 E. Lee St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 PRE-REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED and SPOTS ARE LIMITED! Registrations will be held monthly. Participants must be 16 years of age or older to register.

(334) 348-2686

Every Wednesday

Artist Escape (Free) 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m., Rudd Art Center, 144 E. Broad St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Stop by the Rudd Art Center any Wednesday and create art with us. Artist come and go 11am-3pm. There is no cost and all skill levels are welcome. So pack up your latest project and join us!

Every Friday

Little Learners Storytime (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 11:00 a.m., Daleville Public Library, 308 Donnell Blvd. Daleville, AL, 36362 Join us for music, reading, craft, snack, and free-play.

Every Saturday

Ukelele Group 3:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Hoobler Music Studio, 201 W. College St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Come join in some fun learning songs on the Ukulele. Lead by Roscoe Kahumoku.

Wine Down with Art ($30 per person) 4:00 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., All About Art, 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 36330 This is a step by step class for all experience levels. You must pay in advance to reserve your spot for the evening. Ages 18+. Bring your own beverages and refreshments and we will provide everything else. Sign up in store, online, or over the phone.

(334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com

Every Friday, Saturday, Sunday

Planetarium Shows ($3 per person) Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Fridays at 3:30 p.m.; Saturdays at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.; Sundays at 1 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.; and Mondays at 3:30 p.m. Seating is limited and is based on first come, first served. www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Because of ever-changing circumstances due to Covid-19, please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

Find More Local Events at WiregrassParents.com! www.wiregrassparents.com

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www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

on eating out and we need to cut back. I got my IG community involved for the month of January to post the foods they are making, and I share mine and give recipe inspirations.

WP: What are some healthy habits you hope to pass down to your kid(s)?

KA: I look to pass down a healthy outlook on food. I don’t want Asher to ever feel guilty for wanting a doughnut. I want him to look at it as a small treat. I also want him to look at food as fuel for his body and exercise as movement that is good for his body and heart. I feel if we set those foundations, then he will be able to have a healthy relationship with food and exercise, which will, in turn, help him with his confidence.

Krystal Anderson

WP: Self-care is a big part of staying healthy. How do you ensure that you’re at your best? What does self-care look like for you?

WP:You have a pretty big online presence where you have made health your platform.

What led you to become this advocate for fellow mothers?

KA: I love my alone time, and I am so thankful I have a great husband who supports this. So, if I need time to recharge and self-care then I make sure to communicate that. Self-care to me is not always about nails or a massage. I like just hearing my thoughts, walking around Target, and eating my favorite meal in the car while listening to my favorite podcast. It doesn’t take too much for me to be happy.

KA: It truly all just morphed once Asher came into the world. I have ALWAYS been an advocate for women to take care of themselves, but taking care of yourself looks and feels so different once you have children.

I also realized even the first few months postpartum that you can really lose yourself so easily. Once I was able to work through my postpartum depression I realized I wanted to advocate for moms, and then the idea of becoming a Fit4Mom instructor was introduced to me.

WP: You walked away from traditional teaching and entered the world of virtual learning. Talk to me about that decision.

KA: That was my ultimate self-care decision in life. I was in a very toxic environment that began to make me question my worth and calling. I tried to stay for the kids, but in turn, was being disrespected by the administration at every turn (by the way, this happens way too much in schools). I decided enough was enough when it affected my health and I ended up in the hospital. I would tell anyone that is in any type of toxic and strenuous environment to pray and set a plan to move on from that place, person, or situation.

WP: Not only are you now teaching virtually, but you’ve also moved into the realm of Special Education. How different is that for you?

WP: Tell me a little about Fit4Mom. How does it work?

KA: It is so different, and it is a challenge. I am learning something new each day. I really wanted to work with students who require a teacher who cares and is patient. I also love working with my families, which is very crucial in a virtual environment.

KA: I have been a member of Fit4mom since I found out I was pregnant. It’s for moms of all ages and walks to come together to workout with their babies and socialize. We have stroller strides classes where we go to local parks and workout with our babies.

We also sing and sometimes have activities for the kids/babies after class. We also have Mom Night Out every month where we usually get dressed up (normally without baby) and do various activities like eat or go to a breakout room. I have been an instructor since May 2021 and it has been such an unexpected blessing. I love getting to pour into the moms and encourage them through this motherhood journey.

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

KA: I would say “Girl, leave those crusty, undeserving boys where they are and go chase those dreams and goals even harder. That husband and family you desire so bad are going to be there, I promise.”

WP: Any advice for new parents?

WP: You are doing a fun challenge on your social media. Explain how the ‘I Got Food at Home’ project works and how other moms can get involved with it.

KA: The best advice I was given when I was pregnant (from a dear friend named Kalena) was: “That baby doesn’t need all the extra things because he has everything he needs with you and his dad.”

KA: I always have ideas running through my head and those ideas are usually inspired by something. This idea was inspired by a random post I saw being shared basically stating that this year we are spending less and eating at home. It hit me! Wow! YES! Me and my family have been spending way too much Wiregrass Parents I February 2022

Krystal Anderson is a virtual Special Education Teacher as well as a Fit4Mom instructor. She and her husband, Justin, have been married for two years.

They have one son, Asher, who is 15 months.

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