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Keep Your Kids Cancer Free!

More than 26,000 new cases of HPV cancers could be prevented with HPV vaccination

HPV Vaccine is Cancer Prevention!

Prevents 90% of HPV cancers Protects boys and girls against half a dozen cancers including cervical and other HPV cancers.

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contact your childs doctor today! Vaccine costs are covered by most insurance programs, Medicaid, and the Vaccine for Children Program (VFC).

Don’t Wait to Vaccinate AGE AT FIRST DOSE

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October2021 20

Volume 4 Number 2

Columns

From the Publisher Ashton Wright

Consider Creative Consequences for Kids

Unique ways to improve behavior.

Common Sense Media

Should you read your child’s texts and when?

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Kids Health Watch by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Family Eye Health Sponsored by Eye Center South

22 Parenting, Media &

Everything in Between Common Sense Media

Halloween Traditions

Five fun ideas to implement year after year with your kids.

Our guide shares what’s going on around town and nearby. Make plans to enjoy these events!

Departments 10

Teacher of the Month

On The Cover Taylor Poss, 9, is the daughter of Justin and Lauren Poss. The Hillcrest Elementary School 4th grader loves math, science, computer technology, and all things “spooky”. She is an aspiring screen play writer and wants to be either a scientist, an artist, or a missionary when she grows up.

School Bits 36

Mom to Mom

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FromThePublisher The Area’s Go-To Resource for Families

Do you believe in ghosts? The Wiregrass is full of ghost stories. I grew up hearing about the witch’s grave, haunted jail, and Huggin’ Molly, but I didn’t have my own supernatural experience until much later in life. My first job after graduating college was working the overnight shift as the morning show producer at WTVY-TV. I was living at home with my parents in Blakely, so every night between 10:00 and 11:00 p.m. I would drive to Dothan on Highway 52. Usually, the most excitement there was a deer jumping out in front of my car on the way, but one night - I can’t remember when exactly, other than it being the year 2010 - something truly creepy happened. It was near the railroad crossing that leads to Georgia Pacific. There were no other cars on the road. The lighting in that area is sparse. Around the area that the road widened to allow the turn lane, a man appeared walking down the center line. He was wearing what looked to be an old-fashioned train conductor’s cap and carrying a lantern. He appeared so suddenly, I didn’t have time to swerve to avoid hitting him. I just knew I was about to kill this person, but the thud of impact never came, and when I looked in every single mirror, there was no one there. Years later - so long, in fact, that I had basically forgotten about this incident - I learned about a deadly train accident that happened back in 1905 where the track crosses the Chattahoochee River. Coincidence? Maybe. What I do know is that three men died in that accident, one of whom was the engineer, and the man I saw that night in 2010 was wearing what looked eerily similar to the engineer uniform of the early 1900s. Now that we’ve got the spooky out of the way, let’s get to the fun. This is my favorite issue of the entire year! Our annual Fall Festivities and Halloween Fun Guide has all the best pumpkin patches, festivals, scarecrows, arts and crafts, and trick or treating in the area. And be sure to check out our feature story, 5 Halloween Traditions to Start with Your Kids. We don’t have any Halloween traditions other than decorating. This year, we took Alexis on a mini fall/Halloween decoration shopping spree. We usually do something pumpkin-related, as well, and this year we’ve decided to participate in the Dothan-Houston County Library System’s Book Character Pumpkin Contest (details in Bits & Pieces). For trick-or-treating this year, we’re doing our first-ever family costume theme. Alexis loves Scooby Doo, so we’ll be hitting the streets of our neighborhood as Scooby, Shaggy, and Daphne. I’d love to see how you celebrate fall. Whether it’s visiting your favorite u-pick farm, decorating a pumpkin, or trick-or-treating, share the fun by tagging us in your Facebook or Instagram photos (@wiregrassparents). No matter how you choose to get into the spirit of the season, I hope you do so safely. At the risk of sounding cliche - Happy Fall, Y’all!

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

Publisher Ashton Wright ashton@wiregrassparents.com (334) 714-7831 Editor DeAnne Watson editor@wiregrassparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Contributing Writers Jordan Johnson, OD Jake Kirkland Sarah Lyons Kishia Saffold Jennifer Stinson, MD 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

Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

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 2021 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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Scarecrows in the Gardens

October 1-31 Dothan Area Botanical Gardens 5130 Headland Ave., Dothan AL 36303 www.dabg.com; Admission $5 The crows are here every day in October. Bring your friends for an enjoyable stroll through the park and see the imaginations of our Gardens area friends as their Crow talents are put on display. The theme for this year’s 17th Annual “Scarecrows In The Gardens” is “Every Day’s a Holiday”. Families, businesses, non-profits, church groups, schools, clubs, and individuals are all encouraged to join the fun and submit your creation. This can be a wonderful team building project for your family or group. First-time entrants are strongly encouraged to attend. Construction suggestions and an entry form are available for download on each of the workshop event pages on the website. Entry fee is $20 per entry (waived for schools). $100 cash prizes will be awarded to the top 5 overall winners and to the best school entry.

68th Alabama National Fair

October 9-17 Garrett Coliseum, 1555 Federal Dr., Montgomery AL Carnival Games, Awesome Rides, Outside Shows, Musical Entertainment, Livestock Shows and Cooking Events. The 2021 Alabama National Fair promises FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY! The fair is presented by the Kiwanis Club of Montgomery. It’s members and spouses put some 5,500 hours of work into the fair each year to make it happen! This enables the Kiwanis Club to raise funds for the youth and charitable projects in the community. Go to www.alnationalfair.org or download the Alabama National Fair mobile app on your smart phone for a full schedule of daily events.

Halloween Scream

Saturday, October 30, 6:00-7:30 p.m. Halloween Scream is a fun and safe trick-or-treating experience for the children of our community within the well-lit, police-patrolled area of Headland’s Downtown Square. Music makes the evening even more fun for the whole family! It’s the perfect night to wear a mask! Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

51st Annual Kolomoki Festival

Saturday, October 9, 9:00 a.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park 205 Indian Mounds Rd., Blakely GA 39823 The 51st Annual Kolomoki Festival includes performances by the Bo Henry Band, an antique tractor parade, a fly-boarding performance, crafts and food vendors. Learn about primitive skills such as flint knapping, hide tanning, ax throwing, archery, pottery and more while visiting one of the most significant Woodland Indian sites in the Southeast. Some fees may apply for various attractions. $5 parking.

Book Character Pumpkin Contest

October 1-22 Dothan-Houston Co. Library System All Locations www.dhcls.org Beginning September 1, stop by any location to pick up an entry form for our annual Book Character Pumpkin Contest. You can begin to turn in your completed entry on October 1, 2021. All you need is a favorite story or book character! • Due to rotting, we can not accept real pumpkins this year. All pumpkins need to be fake (foam or plastic). • Do not carve your pumpkin. • You can decorate your pumpkin with paint, markers, cloth, glue, construction paper, or whatever you need to embellish your pumpkin. Remember, do not carve your pumpkin. • Pumpkins must be based on a book character. • Families are encouraged to work together, but we ask that most of the work be done by the child. • Pumpkins should be turned in at any DHCLS location beginning on October 1, 2021, but no later than 5 pm on October 22, 2021. Pumpkin winners will be announced and notified beginning on October 27. We will be awarding multiple prizes!!

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Headland Harvest Festival

October 8 & 9; Downtown Headland You don’t want to miss the 50th Annual Harvest Day brought to you by Express Employment Professionals, Friday October 8 Saturday, October 9th. This fun-filled event takes place downtown in and around Headland’s beautiful city square. The day is a tribute to local farmers and the harvest season. It includes a car show sponsored by HNB First, children’s games and rides, arts and crafts, food vendors and live entertainment throughout the day. This year’s event is an official Headland 150 event and is a key component in the celebration of Headland’s 150th Anniversary. Friday, October 8th you can rock out with the Velcro Pygmies at the Express Employment Stage and enjoy a preview of fair food and dine in our local restaurants. We will have information on the HNB First VIP area soon. Saturday, October 9th will begin with our Annual Harvest Run supporting the Headland High Cross Country Team brought to you by HNB First. Opening ceremonies will begin at 9am and will be followed by local entertainment and live music through the afternoon.

Fall Farm Day

Saturday, October 16, 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan AL 36303 Admission: $8 Adults, $6 Seniors/Military, $4 Kids, Free Under 2 & Members www.landmarkparkdothan.com Enjoy the sights and sounds of an 1890s farmstead while volunteers demonstrate sugar cane grinding and syrup making, peanut picking, stacking and digging, an antique tractor pull and parade, household chores, arts and crafts and more. Concessions will be available and the Martin Drugstore and Shelley General Store will be open. Visit www.landmarkparkdothan.com for entry forms for the Tractor Pull and Parade. Masks will be required when inside buildings and when outdoors in a large, not socially-distanced group.

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Self Help at Cultural Arts Center

October 19-23, 7:00 p.m. 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan AL www.seact.com A married pair of second-rate theatre actors cast themselves as self-help gurus. Much to their surprise, they become the world’s most revered relationship experts. Their careers skyrocket as their own marriage takes a nose dive. Cindy is about to have an affair with the gardener when he dies suddenly in a most compromising position. What follows is a series of hilarious antics, leaving she and hubby Hal to spend the next 24 hours protecting their reputations from the police, their agent, and a nosey journalist.

Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

Spooky in the City

Friday, October 29, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Enterprise Parks and Recreation is excited to announce the return of Spooky in the City! The event provides the public with the ability to play a virtual game around the city from the comfort and safety of their own vehicles. We encourage everyone to get in the spooky spirit, put on your favorite costume, and gather your family for a Halloween themed game on the go and to collect free goodies from each “Spooky Stop”. Spooky in the City will be on Friday, October 29th, 2021. The game will begin at 5:30 PM and end at 8:30 PM. There will be 10 different Spooky Stops around the city which will be released in October. Teams who stop at all 10 Spooky Stops and complete the virtual game riddles will be provided a link to enter their team for a chance to win a Spooky in the City prize! The Spooky in the City prizes are made up entirely of gifts donated by local businesses!

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KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Depression in Adolescents Living during the COVID pandemic, medical providers know an important aspect of general pediatric and adolescent medical care is the diagnosis and treatment of depression. It is estimated at least 10 percent ofAmerican teenagers suffer with depression, but during the isolation created by the pandemic, those numbers may be significantly higher. Some key factors parents should watch for include a sad or irritable mood, unexplained weight changes, withdrawing from family or peer groups, changes in sleep patterns, difficulty making decisions, low self-esteem, fatigue, unexplained physical complaints, or frequent thoughts of dying. One of the first approaches is to simply talk to your teen about their feelings. It is imperative to provide emotional support, discuss bullying, explore ways to alleviate stress, consider limiting screen time, and, most importantly, remove accessibility to guns, medications (including over-the-counter drugs), alcohol and anything deemed a threat to someone with depression.

Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

Scheduling a wellness checkup or an office visit specifically to address depression and anxiety is recommended, as well. A depression screening questionnaire is an excellent tool to start the discussion of feelings of sadness, loneliness, anxiety, and stressors related to school and peer pressure. The good news is there are many ways to treat depression, including counseling, individual and group or family therapy, social services to help meet fundamental needs, or psychiatry and medication when needed. Depression can present with many different faces. Sometimes it is obvious at first glance, while other times it is hidden behind a smile. When reaching out to those who may be struggling with depression, never underestimate the power of friendship and kindness, as it could make a world of difference to someone who is silently suffering. As parents and providers, it is important to prepare a safety plan. • Make sure your teen understands the

treatment plan and that it may take several weeks to see changes. • Make sure he or she has someone to call when alone if there are increased feelings of sadness or thoughts of self-harm. • Be aware of the risk factors for suicide, such as giving away personal belongings, increased risk-taking behaviors, or increased thoughts of death. • Finally, discuss important resources such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which may be reached at 1-800-273-8255 or online at www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org. Dr. Jennifer Stinson joined Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network in 2017, practicing primarily at Ozark Pediatric Clinic. She and her husband, Slade, live in Enterprise with their two sons: Solomon and Zachary. In her free time, Dr. Stinson enjoys baseball games, the beach, and spending time with her family.

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Dr. Dianna Meade Lisenby Primary School

instead, I try to keep humor at the forefront. We do a lot of laughing in my classroom.” Dr. Meade tries to keep her students motivated by making sure they know what they have to say is important and teaching them that no question is too big to ask. Dr. Meade says there are many rewarding things about her career, but if she had to pick just one, it would be when she hears from another teacher or parent that one of her students shared with someone else how something worked or why it worked or that they read a word or a sentence or shared why it’s important to be kind. “When my kiddos can teach others information they have learned while under my tutelage, it’s a good day,” she says. “Makes me smile.” She hopes her students leave her with a love for learning, and with that, to never stop wanting to learn. “I want them to respect learning and to know they have the skills needed to search information out and if they ever get stumped, it’s okay to go ask someone.”

“Dr. Meade is a hidden jewel at Ozark City Schools.” Ansley Godwin’s son, Wilson, is one of Dr. Dianna Meade’s inclusion preschool students at Lisenby Primary School. Godwin says Dr. Meade has worked diligently to improve Wilson’s speech. “When Wilson started school he would not say anything but hi [or] bye. Now, a year and a half later, I’m able to communicate with my son.” This is Dr. Meade’s fifth year with Ozark City Schools, but she has been teaching for more than 20 years. “All throughout my educational career, I’ve had teachers/professors that have challenged me and fostered my love for learning,” Meade says. “I wanted to give that back to the next generations and instill a love for learning in them.” Dr. Meade says she listens and learns from her students to stay motivated. She says her students’ inquisitiveness keeps her on her toes. “Additionally, I try to keep negativity outside of the classroom,” Meade adds. “I have learned from experience, a negative person can bring the whole class to a screeching stop. So

Dianna Meade received her BS in Deaf Education from the University of Montevallo, her Master of Ed in Special Education from Bethel University, and her Doctor of Education in Teacher Leadership from Walden University. She and her husband, Wayne, have three grown sons and two cats.

Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

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ASMS ASMS Informational Meetings

Find out if ASMS is right for you by attending an Informational Meeting near you listed below!! Also, plan to visit our campus during one of our ASMS Days held on Saturday, November 13, or Saturday, December 4. Register now at www.asms.net! ALBERTVILLE Monday, October 11 • 6 PM Albertville Public Library

CULLMAN Thursday, October 7 • 6 PM Wallace State Community College

HUNTSVILLE Tuesday, October 26 • 6 PM University of AL @ Huntsville

MONTEVALLO Tuesday, October 12, 6 • PM Parnell Memorial Library

ENTERPRISE Thursday, October 14 • 6 PM Enterprise Public Library

JASPER Tuesday, October 12 • 6 PM Bevill State Community College

MONTGOMERY Tuesday, October 19, 6 • PM AL. Assoc of School Boards

ANNISTON/OXFORD Tuesday, October 12 • 6 PM Oxford Civic Center

EUFAULA Tuesday, October 19 • 6 PM Wallace Community College

LIVINGSTON Monday, October 25, 6 • PM University of West Alabama

ATMORE/EVERGREEN Thursday, October 28 • 6 PM Reid State Technical College

FLORENCE Thursday, October 21 • 6 PM Florence-Lauderdale Public Library

MOBILE - OPTION 1 Monday, October 4 • 6 PM ASMS Campus MOBILE - OPTION 2 Monday, October 18, 6 • PM ASMS Campus

ALEXANDER CITY Tuesday, October 5 • 6 PM Central Alabama Community College

AUBURN/OPELIKA Monday, October 4 • 6 PM Southern Union State Community College BIRMINGHAM Thursday, October 28 • 6 PM Vestavia Hills Library

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Average ACT Increase While at 67 counties in ASMS Alabama represented

GREENVILLE Tuesday, October 26 • 6 PM Ritz Theatre Reception Room HAMILTON Tuesday, October 26 • 6 PM Bevill State Community College

MONROEVILLE Tuesday, October 19, 6 • PM Coastal AL Community College

SELMA Thursday, October 14 • 6 PM Elkdale Baptist Church THOMASVILLE Monday, October 18 • 6 PM Coastal AL Community College TROY Monday, October 18 • 6 PM Troy University TUSCALOOSA Monday, October 18 • 6 PM University of Alabama

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11 • MOBILE, ALABAMA 36604 www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents ALABAMA SCHOOL OF MATH AND SCIENCE • 1255 DAUPHIN STREET • 251.441.2100 • WWW.ASMS.NET

Mixon School Raises Money for Performing Arts Council

Mixon School students raised money to make a donation to the Dale County Performing Arts Council. All students donated $2.00 each to support their fellow classmates as they watched them in the live production of The Lion King! Principal, Mrs. Maghen Lowery, and Reading Intervention Teacher, Mrs. Earlena Marshall, presented Colson Collier, DCPAC representative, with the donation. We would like to thank the DCPAC and Director Margie Benson for providing our students this opportunity! A special thanks goes to Mrs. Earlena Marshall as she made sure all students were able to participate and donate!

S Troy Nursing Students Provide Health Screenings at Early Ed. Center

We are grateful for our partnership with Troy University Dothan Campus. Students from the nursing program assisted with health screenings today and were an awesome help!

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Northside Methodist Volleyball Wins Troy Tournament

Congratulations to the Varsity Volleyball team who won the Trojan Classic Tournament in Troy September 4. The Knights won four straight matches to meet Charles Henderson in the championship and won 25-14, 25-15.

Pinedale students enjoyed a visit from some of the EHS Wildcat football players. “Cats for Kids” is a program where football players visit an elementary school on Fridays, when there is a home game, and the players read to our students, or even hang out on the playground during PE. Pinedale would like to thank Coach Jackson Hanson and the following players that are assigned to Pinedale: Nick Cox, Will Dalrymple, ZeMarion Holmes, Shaun Lackey, Xavier Moore, Jadell Presley, Josiah Soles, Austin Strickland, Keith Warren, and Nate Webber.

Hands-On Fractions at The Carver School for Mathematics

Sixth-grade students in Mrs. Richards’s class at The Carver School for Mathematics, Science, and Technology are learning all about fractions! Students were challenged to create as many equivalent fractions as possible using hands-on manipulatives. Keep learning, Lions! Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

EHS Football Players Visit Pinedale

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Selma Street Launches Girls Who Code

Our fifth grade girls started the Girls Who Code program in September. They will work with Mrs. Staton, our Library Media Specialist, to learn more about computer science and the influential women within this field. They will also learn computer programming and coding. The goal of the program is to increase the number of women in computer science by equipping young women with the necessary computing skills to pursue 21st century opportunities.

Takes On Life. Arielle has a severe blood disorder called sickle cell anemia hemoglobin SS. While her condition is high risk and complex, she manages her disease well with medication and a monthly red blood cell exchange at the Alabama Center for Childhood Cancer and Blood Disorders at Children’s of Alabama. Our team of over 300 dedicated pediatric healthcare professionals is committed to exceptional patient care and innovative research – and driven to find cures for kids like Arielle.

To learn about Arielle’s story and how you can help, visit ChildrensAL.org/committedtoacure

Ashford Student Wins National Beta Book Battle

Congratulations to Sabrye Strickland for placing as a National Finalist for Language Arts and 5th place in Book Battle at the National Beta Convention that was held in June. We are so proud of you, Sabrye! Way to represent AES! 13

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Providence Football Players Set Up Library Book Sale

The Providence Christian School Varsity Football team brought their muscles and hearts of service to the Westgate Branch Library! Look at all these empty tables that will soon be filled with books at our HUGE book sale! Also, a big shout out to Westgate Church of Christ for allowing the Friends to use their tables for the sale. Thank you!

Houston Academy JV Cross Country Wins Georgia Meet

JV Girls XC team win in a highly competitive Georgia Meet in their age group! 2 JV runners medaled in a field of 145 runners! • Emily Selig-Pineda earned 5th place • Bri Hart earned 6th place All returning Varsity runners earned their best start of season times! Skye, Bri, & Emi were the only 7th graders out of the 145 runners!

Mixon 4th Graders Meet Bearded Dragon

The first week of September, Mixon Intermediate School fourth graders read The Horned Toad, and what a surprise it was to have Torren’s mom meet us outside during our visit to the Cool Bus for Ice cream treats and bring his bearded dragon for us to learn about! Mrs. Cherry and Mrs. Rabren’s class enjoyed some cool treats and learned some cool facts about bearded dragons!

EHS Wildcat Rifles Win at Buckmasters Invitational

The Enterprise High School Army JROTC team rifle team competed in the Buckmasters Invitational on August 21, 2021. The invitational is part of the Buckmasters Expo held annually at the Montgomery Convention Center, Montgomery, AL. The air rifle competition included individual competitors, shooting club members and JROTC organizations from across the southeast. The EHS Wildcat Rifles competed in both the Sporter and Precision rifle classes. The Sporter team finished 1st in the overall team standings, with Samuel Haglund taking 3rd overall in the individual. The Precision team finished 2 nd in the overall team standings. Precision team members are John Carter, Ashton Daniels, Samuel Ingram and Jack Bullard. Sporter team members are William Hokanson, Samuel Haglund, Alanna Jury and Dallen Putney. The Buckmasters Invitational was the kick-off event to begin the 2021-2022 competition season. This season will consist of local events with Wiregrass area ROTC programs, multiple postal tournaments against teams from across the country, working toward the ultimate goal of qualifying for both the JROTC and Civilian Marksmanship National Championships. Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

Carroll High Recognizes Class Sponsors

We have some phenomenal class sponsors and co-sponsors this year! From left to right, Mrs. Loff, Dr. Moore, Ms. Nolin, Ms. Greggs, Ms. Caulfield, and Mrs. Ogunade Not pictured: Mrs. Barrett, Ms. Cortner, and Ms. Mozo

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Show Me the Money at Morris Slingluff Elementary It may have only been week three of school, but our students are already learning so much! Ms. Paramore’s third grade class had some “short e” and “short a” review. Fun fact: Ms. Paramore’s cue for the students to hold up their answers is “Show me the money!” Don’t worry if you hear your third grader repeating it. They haven’t been watching game shows at school- just been busy learning!

Boy Scouts Raise Dauphin Flag

A few of our Fins from Troop 77 have volunteered to raise and lower the flags at DJHS each day. We appreciate your willingness to serve at DJHS!

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Enterprise Football Players Visit Elementary Classrooms

Xavier Henderson and Dakaine Leonard visited Mrs. Blount and Mrs. Bruce’s 3rd grade classes. The program Cats for Kids allows varsity football players to develop relationships through reading, learning, and playing with students. Keion Dunlap visited Mrs. Manus’s 2nd grade classroom. Thank you to these outstanding young men for mentoring our fantastic students! What a treat!

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Girard Primary Rewards Good Behavior

Fridays are awesome because of Good Behavior prizes! Students can earn tickets if they are caught being principled. Each week we draw names from the ticket entries for a special prize. These are a few of this week’s winners!

Dothan Tech HOSA Set Yearly Goals

The Dothan Tech chapter of HOSA – Future Health Professionals conducted their first meeting with the Alabama HOSA VP and Dothan High School student, Olivia Burgess, on Friday, August 27. They discussed their mission and goals for the year, which are to join the Be The Match campaign, where individuals donate their DNA to determine the eligibility of becoming a bone marrow donor. At the conclusion of the meeting, the Biomedical program students earned their White Coats by successfully completing all of the introductory requirements of the program.

Northside Methodist 6th Graders Learn Flag Etiquette

Our 6th graders have the honor & privilege of raising and lowering our flag each day. September 3, LTC Davis came to teach proper flag etiquette.

Webb 2nd Graders Adopt Reading Buddies

Webb Elementary School second grade students chose and adopted a reading buddy. We pledged to read to them nightly, take care of them, and give them lots of love. It was super fun!

Dothan City Schools Vaccination Clinics

The Dothan Fire Department, Southeast Health and Dothan City Schools partnered to give vaccinations to students, faculty and family members. First stop was Dothan High School in the morning and Dothan Prep in the afternoon. Almost 50 first time vaccinations were given. Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

Dothan Tech SkillsUSA Has First Meeting

DTC Graphic Arts held our first SkillsUSA meeting and team building exercise. We learned about how CTE can help you excel in your future and that the certifications you gain during high school can give you a jump start. Students also got to experience team building games that helped them to understand how to work together to accomplish a goal. 16

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Living Well Overcoming Ruminating Thoughts & Overthinking Are you a ruminator? Overthinker? Have paralysis by analysis? Me too! The average human has about 6,200 thoughts a day, with 80 percent of those being negative. Some of us even have ruminating thoughts, which are negative, intrusive thoughts about a particular event or experience. What causes ruminating thoughts? Perfectionism, low self-esteem, a traumatic event, or life-changing experiences. Ruminating thoughts are believed to lead to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD. Physical symptoms could be linked to high blood pressure, stomach ailments such as GERD, acid reflux, and headaches. Are we doomed? Is it in our DNA? Are we born to ruminate and overthink every ding dang thing in our life? To contemplate the should haves and could

haves of our past life and ruminate on what could happen in the future? The answer is NO! It takes practice. I started this yoga journey of mine 6 years ago, and I can see vast improvements in my thinking. It is not one and done. It is my main reason for teaching yoga. Yoga cultivates mindfulness. By teaching, I stop, breathe, learn new techniques, and constantly learn better ways to teach, therefore helping others and myself. I continue to prepare for each class. I want to encourage people around me. I understand first-hand what it is like to be crippled by the should haves and the could haves. Our brain sometimes convinces us that all that worrying and ruminating is somehow helpful, but that is not the case. So what can you do? Try this! Notice your thoughts. Ask yourself

how many times you have had that same thought. Allow yourself two more times to think it, and then Breathe. For me, I like to take five deep belly breaths, focusing on the temperature of the air or just simply saying, “I am breathing in, I am breathing out.” Your thoughts can stress you or serve you. You get to pick! Learning to be aware of your thoughts is the first step. Changing habits can be hard. If you have questions about changing habits, follow me on Instagram or Facebook @Valhealthcoach. I specialize in helping you create lasting changes to create that healthy lifestyle you want. Valerie Thompson is a health coach, yoga instructor, meditator, breath instructor, and mom of two grown boys. She helps women explore how to take care of themselves by balancing hormones, while juggling their career and family.

GIRL! YOU. ARE. TIRED. I get it. It is so easy to run on empty with children, work and home. Taking care of yourself seems like another thing to do on your growing to-do list.

I work with women to help them learn how to take care of themselves. Having a health coach can help you work through these years with less stress.

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FamilyEyeHealth

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5 Important Tips for Choosing the Best Eye Doctor Since we rely on our eyes daily, choosing the right eye doctor is crucial. It’s just as important as choosing the best general physician or selecting the right dentist. Here are the top 5 things to look for when choosing a good eye doctor. 1. The Right Type Of Eye Doctor: Not all eye doctors offer the same services. For example, an optometrist can perform a general eye exam. However, if you have a specific eye disease then you may be best suited with an ophthalmologist for ongoing care. This is because ophthalmologists have specialist training that qualifies them regarding all diagnoses, management, and treatment of eye diseases. 2. Their Credentials: Once you choose the right type of eye doctor for your needs, it’s important to research their credentials. Make sure the eye doctor you choose has achieved

board certification and has a license to practice in your state. Both the certificate and license should be displayed somewhere prominent and easily visible to patients. 3. Their Reviews: What is the reputation of your eye doctor? Reviews and testimonials can help answer that. You may find reviews on their website, but consider the practice will only share positive reviews. You should also look at general online reviews, such as Google and other search engines. This will give you a good idea of the quality of service and care you can expect to receive. 4. The Services Offered: It’s often a good idea to choose an eye doctor that offers a wide range of services. This ensures all your care and treatment can be performed in one location. It’s also worth finding out the office hours to make sure that they fit around your usual schedule.

5. Transparency In Their Billing: Regardless of how you pay, you want to choose an eye doctor who is transparent about the billing process. Any good practice will have set rates for each procedure and be able to answer any questions that you have about things like billing, payment plans, and insurance coverage. For more tips on what to look for when choosing a good eye doctor, or to schedule an appointment at our practice, please call our dedicated eyecare team today. A native of Graceville, Florida, Dr. Smith earned her Bachelor of Science from Huntingdon College in Montgomery, Alabama in Biology with minors in Chemistry and History. She graduated from the UAB School of Optometry in 2005, having completed rotations in the UAB Eye Clinic as well as experience as a field optometrist at the Eglin Air Force Base in Okaloosa County, Florida.

SPEC-TACULAR Get a FREE pair of glasses* with the purchase of Elite Multifocal Lenses. Promo valid October 1 -December 31 *Vision Insurance Benefits Applies. See store for details. Promotion available in-store only.

334-793-2633 Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

VisionCenterSouth.net 18

151 E Main St., Dothan, AL 36301 www.wiregrassparents.com

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Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

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Before becoming a parent, the idea of disciplining children seemed fairly straightforward. It follows logic that if you set limits, use consistency, and respond firmly, but lovingly, children will learn to correct their behavior. As I became a more experienced mother, I quickly learned that traditional methods of discipline, such as time outs, do not work with every child, every time. Thinking outside of the traditional methods of discipline and trying new and creative consequences may improve behavior. Here are some ideas:

1) Buy it back - Toys left on the floor

after the designated pickup time will be confiscated by a parent. Children will be allowed to buy back each item for $1. (www.notconsumed.com) If the children are not earning an allowance, they may do something extra around the house to earn the item back.

2) Practice makes perfect - When

chores aren’t done to the parent’s standards, have kids “practice” doing it over and over again until they become an expert. (www.imom.com)

3) Silly faces - “If siblings were fight-

ing, they had to make five faces at each

other. They would end up laughing and forget what they were fighting about to begin with,” says Marianne Lincoln, mom of five.

4) Team spirit - Siblings who fight can

also be assigned projects or chores to work on as a team. By the end of the day, they will have learned to work together.

5) Open door policy - If your teen

continues to slam the bedroom door when angry, take away the privilege of privacy and remove the door for a week.

6) Donations - If your kids consistently

leave clothing on the floor, collect it for donation to a local charity. If they decide they aren’t ready to donate it yet, have them pay you what it would cost them to buy it from a thrift store. (www.parenting.com)

7) Safety first - It is not safe to drive

when people are shouting and making a commotion in the car. If the kids are too rowdy, pull the car over and wait silently until they are quiet.

8) Take time - If your child is dawdling

and makes everyone late, have them sit out of the fun when you arrive for the same amount of time they wasted at home.

9) Early to bed - If the child has a bad

attitude and you suspect it’s because they are not getting enough sleep, move up bedtime by 5 minutes each time you need to remind them to improve their behavior.

10) Kid’s choice - When children misbehave, try allowing them to choose their own consequence. This method gives them control over their fate, teaches them to think about their actions in the future, and makes imposing the consequence easier. 11) Stand alone - If the child will not stop tipping his chair at dinner, simply take the chair away and have him stand while he eats. (www.notconsumed.com)

12) Teach respect - “I have a friend that has her children wash the other’s feet if they are being disrespectful to each other,” says Shannon, mom of three.

With some patience, a sense of humor, and some creativity, parents can use the art of creative consequences to teach their children in a fresh and memorable way that will have lasting results. WP Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer with work published in parenting publications through the U.S.

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Should You Read Your Kid’s Texts? You’re sitting there minding your own business when a nearby phone buzzes. U up?, it says, beckoning you closer. Only, it’s not your phone—it’s your kid’s. Do you pick it up? Do you “accidentally” swipe the screen for a closer look? If you’ve made up your mind—yes, you read your kid’s texts, or no, you don’t—more power to you! But if the question prompts a cascade of conflicting emotions, self-serving justifications, and guilt, we can help. Like every other aspect of raising kids in the digital age, the answer is complicated. (And if your kid is “BC”—before cellphones—use this as a chance to prep for the next phase.)

Should I read my kid’s texts?

Reading your kid’s texts is part of responsible parenting. But there’s only one scenario (described below) where we think it’s okay to do it without telling your kid. Most kids view their phones as their personal property, and it can become a proxy for their blossoming independence. So don’t sneak. Maintaining trust—especially in the vital years leading up to the teens—is critical to a healthy relationship (and it goes both ways). Your kids may not like it, but they’ll respect you for being honest. They’ll also understand your point of view better if you explain why you want to see what’s on their phone: It helps to keep them safe. Since so much of kids’ lives happens on devices, we need to keep tabs on whether their relationships are healthy, whether the content they’re seeing is age-appropriate, and even when they’re using their phones (such as when they’re supposed to be sleeping or in school). If you’ve already established the routine of spot checks, your kid should be expecting them. If not, make it clear it’s for their safety and that keeping them safe is part of your job. It reinforces your media rules. How can you tell they’re following your rules if you can’t see the evidence? You need to make sure they’re texting with people they know and that their relationships and activities are Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

mostly positive. Tell your kid what you want to peek at and what you’re looking for. A few examples: • Texts show you whom they’re talking to and at what times. They’ll also provide a sense of whether the interactions are mostly beneficial. • Apps show you their online activities: what they’re reading, playing, listening to, and sharing. • Settings, including the ones on the phone and in individual apps, show you how they’re protecting their privacy, whether they have location services on or off, and even how much time they’re spending in their apps.

It lets you know when they’re ready for more responsibility. The better they manage their online lives, the more you can loosen the reins. If they’re following your rules, such as asking for permission before downloading apps, not hacking your parental controls, and overall conducting themselves responsibly, the spot checks can become less frequent—and maybe you can ease up on other restrictions they’ve proven they can handle.

What are the downsides of reading my kid’s texts?

It’s just one piece of the puzzle. As much as we’ve been told that our kids are living online, they also very much live in the real world. The contents of their phones will give you some clues—but they could be misleading, taken out of context, or misunderstood. Yes, it can be hard to get your tween talking sometimes, but keep making the effort. An effective way to engage them is by asking what their friends are playing 22

or doing on social media, instead of asking them directly about themselves. You’re going to discover stuff you won’t like … and need to figure out what to do about it. You’ll have to determine for yourself what constitutes typical tween stuff (swear words, cringey ideas, exploration of mature content) and what may be signs of deeper issues (inappropriate photos, hate speech, risky apps, troubling search terms such as “suicide” and “drugs”). Pick your battles: Use the minor issues as an opportunity to discuss your values, and give consequences for serious infractions. If you’re worried about something, do a more in-depth check of your kid’s well-being in person (we recommend the HEADSS assessment). If your kid’s having a bumpy time or hiding stuff, you can use a phone-monitoring app such as Bark or other parental control tools to receive notifications of alert words and off-limits activities.

You may invade someone else’s privacy. Sure, you have the right to keep tabs on your own kid, but digging around on their phone will inevitably uncover something about their friends. Knowing private information can put you in a really awkward spot. Use your best judgment: If you think anyone is unsafe, you should do what you can to protect them. But if it’s just something you wish you could “unsee,” keep it to yourself.

A word about sneaking The only situation that warrants spying is if you suspect something is seriously wrong. When your Spidey sense kicks in and you notice any signs of behavior change, declining grades, poor sleep, major hostility, withdrawal, or secrecy, you have a solid reason to check the phone without your kid knowing. And if you don’t find anything? Consider coming clean. Your kid may be upset at first, but if you use it as a chance to discuss what’s going on with them and how you might help them feel better—they’ll most likely forgive you. www.wiregrassparents.com

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Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

Halloween means costumes, pumpkin carving, and trick-ortreating. Traditions create lasting memories and something to look forward to each year. Halloween is a perfect time to start some new traditions with your kids. Try some of these ideas.

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Ready Set Decorate

Before you can go trick-or-treating, everyone will need a costume. Have some fun and create coordinating costumes for the whole family or give your child permission to make their own costume with things around the house. Since the kids will need something to collect all that candy in, try decorating your own bucket, bag, or pillowcase for trick-or-treating. Kids could use the same one in the future and enjoy looking back on what they created when they were younger or make a new one each year. Prepare for trick-or-treaters by setting up a spooky atmosphere. Get the kids involved in decorating both the in and outside of the house before Halloween. Make a scarecrow, change the lightbulbs to purple or orange, and hang up homemade or store bought decorations near your door.

Pumpkin time

Pumpkins are a symbol of Halloween and fall, but before buy your pumpkins from the store, try visiting a local pumpkin patch. Many will have apple cider, fall treats, corn mazes, hayrides, a nice variety of pumpkin styles and sizes, and more. Once you have your pumpkins picked out and it is time to do the carving, make things more interesting by coming up with an original theme each year. Some ideas may include sports, cartoon characters, animals, words, or traditional spooky faces. Many ideas and templates can be found online to get you started.

Fun and games

Play Halloween themed music while you carve your pumpkins, bob for apples, and create some holiday-themed treats such as mummy hot dogs, witch finger pretzels, pumpkin shaped pizza, or caramel apples. Try using squash or small pumpkins to bowl, use toilet paper to make friends and family into mummies, or play pin the hat on the witch. Whether you invite friends over for a party or add some fun to your family time, your kids are sure to remember the extra effort you added to make the holiday special.

Landmark Park October 16 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

A spooky story

Kids love a spooky story. Parents can choose age-appropriate movies or books to get their kids in the mood for Halloween. Make up your own stories and share them by candlelight. You can host a spooky movie sleepover for your family or allow kids to invite a few friends over to celebrate.

Give back

• Quilt Show • Tractor Pull and Parade • Syrup Making • Peanut Harvest • Kid’s Activities • Music and more!

Parents can use the holiday as an opportunity to give back to the community. Try participating in a trunk or treat in the area. Each participant decorates the trunk of their car and hands out candy to families who attend. You could also do a “trick-or-treat for hunger” on or around Halloween. Go door to door and ask for non-perishable food donations to give to a local food pantry. Many families also participate in the Teal Pumpkin Project by offering allergen-free treats or small toys so that kids with food allergies can safely participate in Halloween activities. Visit www. foodallergy.org for more information on the Teal Pumpkin Project.

Adults $8 Seniors and Military $6 Kids $4 Park Members Free!

Family traditions are easy to start and worthwhile to continue. As your children grow, they may not remember everything you hope they will, but the traditions that you return to, year after year, will create lasting memories that they will treasure for years to come. WP

334-794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Sarah Lyons is a freelance writer with work published in parenting publications through the U.S.

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Arts & Crafts Wine Down with Art

Dates in October: Hello, Fall Truck - October 9;

Fall Floral - October 16; Gather - October 23; Just a Bunch of Hocus Pocus - October 30 Location: All About Art, 102 S. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 This is an adult event designed for ages 16 and up. You are welcome to bring your own refreshments. (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com allaboutartstudio.com

AR Workshop

2958 Ross Clark Cir., Dothan, AL 36301 See schedule online for project dates and times.

5 Little Pumpkins Finger Puppets & Book Kits

Dates: October 4 Location: Dothan-Houston Co.

Library, All Locations Each kit will contain all supplies needed for your little one to make a finger puppet, including a book. Ages 18 months-4 years. Supplies limited to one per family. Large group and daycare pick-ups are not permitted.

www.dhcls.org

Halloween Leather Workshop

Dates: October 2 Location: White Oak Pastures,

101 Church St., Bluffton, GA 39824 We’ll have all the supplies you need to make a festive garland and door hanger as well as your favorite, spooky scented candle. Limited to 10 participants. Wine and Halloween snacks provided. Time 5:30 p.m. EST Cost: $85/person

(334) 731-3003 dothan@arworkshop.com arworkshop.com/dothan

(229) 641-2081 www.whiteoakpastures.com

Book Character Pumpkin Contest

Pinspiration

Dates: October 1-22 Location: Dothan-Houston

Co. Library, All Locations, AL Decorate a foam or plastic pumpkin based on a book character. Families can work together, but most of the work should be done by the child. Pumpkins can be turned in at any DHCLS location through October 22. Winners will be notified October 27.

www.dhcls.org

Cultural Arts Center

909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 See schedule online for project dates and times. ann@theculturalartscenter.org theculturalartscenter.org

Dive into Diversity: Dia de los Muertos Craft

Dates: October 6 Location: Dothan-Houston Co.

Library, All Locations Small crafts are available for pickup from all locations to further explore the customs and traditions of Dia de los Muertos. Supplies are limited! Our video will go live at 10:30 AM on our Facebook page.

www.dhcls.org

Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

24 E. Church St., Headland, AL 36345 See schedule online for project dates and times. (334) 785-5420 headland@pinspiration.com pinspiration.com/locations/headland

Pints & Paints

Dates: Oogie Boogie - October 7

Pumpkin Tricks - October 23

Location: Folklore Brewing & Meadery,

153 Mary Lou Ln., Dothan, AL 36301 Get your tickets to join us painting at the brewery! No experience necessary. Cost: $35 per person (334) 447-8796 coloredinpaint@yahoo.com eyecatchersart.com

Pints & Paints

Dates: Nightmare Before Christmast - October 21 Location: Ozark Cigars, 164 S. Union Ave.,

Ozark, AL 36360 Join us painting in downtown Ozark!

(334) 447-8796 coloredinpaint@yahoo.com eyecatchersart.com

Pints & Paints

Dates: October 20 Location: Sixtel Bottle &

Growler, 210 N. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Get tickets painting with us for our Zombie Hand

Trick or Treat painting!

(334) 447-8796 coloredinpaint@yahoo.com eyecatchersart.com

Fairs & Festivals

Boll Weevil Fall Festival ad on page 7

Dates: October 16 Location: Downtown Enter-

prise, 100 N. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Experience a variety of local artists and craftsmen, explore our amazing retail shops and restaurants, enjoy festival food, entertainment, and more!

(334) 347-0581 info@enterprisealabama.com www.enterprisealabama.com

Fall Farm Day ad on page 25

Dates: October 16 Location: Landmark Park,

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

(334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Landmark Park Quilt Show ad on page 25

Dates: October 15-17 Location: Landmark Park,

430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 Held in conjunction with the park’s annual Fall Farm Day, this quilt show features over 100 antique and contemporary quilts displayed inside the Stokes Activity Barn. This juried show includes exhibits, door prizes, speakers and more. Open for viewing on Friday (1-4); Saturday (10-4); Sunday (1-4).

(334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

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Pumpkin Day ad on page 7

Dates: October 16 Location: Enterprise Farmers

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

EufaulaFest

Dates: October 9-10 Location: Eufaula, AL 36027

Artists, craftsmen, live entertainment, & food vendors. 8:00 a.m.- 5:00 p.m. daily.

(229) 724-2150 www.gastateparks.org/KolomokiMounds

Fall Craft & Vendor Fair

Dates: November 5-14 Location: National Peanut

Dates: October 16 Location: Chopper’s Ol’

School BBQ, 224 Donnell Blvd., Daleville, AL Proceeds will go to Chopper’s Ol’ School BBQ free Thanksgiving meal. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m.

(334) 348-2310 bbriggs@enterpriseal.gov www.enterpriseal.gov

(334) 447-8049 choppersolschoolbbq@gmail.com

Alabama National Fair

Georgia National Fair

1555 Federal Dr., Montgomery, AL 36107 Carnival Games, Awesome Rides, Outside Shows, Musical Entertainment, Livestock Shows and Cooking Events. The 2021 Alabama National Fair promises FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY!!

Pkwy., Perry, GA 31069 The Georgia National Fair is a traditional, agricultural fair showcasing Georgia’s youth, livestock, and heritage. The Fair features home and fine arts competitions, horse and livestock shows, family entertainment, food, rides and games, and more.

Dates: October 8-17 Location: Garrett Coliseum,

(334) 272-6831 www.alnationalfair.org

Claybank Jamboree Arts & Crafts Festival

Dates: October 2 Location: Downtown Ozark

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

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

Dothan Nurseries Fall Festival

Dates: October 9 Location: 1300 Montgomery

Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 9:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m.

(334) 794-6774 office@dothannurseries.com www.dothannurseries.com

pottery and more while visiting one of the most significant Woodland Indian sites in the Southeast.

Dates: October 7-17 Location: 401 Larry Walker

(478) 987-3247 www.georgianationalfair.com

Headland Harvest Festival

Dates: October 8-9 Location: Downtown Square,

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

(334) 693-3303 director@headlandal.org www.headlandal.org

Kolomoki Festival

Dates: October 9 Location: Kolomoki Mounds State

Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd., Blakely, GA Performances by the Bo Henry Band, an antique tractor parade, a fly-boarding performance, crafts and food vendors. Learn about primitive skills such as flint knapping, hide tanning, ax throwing, archery,

National Peanut Festival

Festival Fairgrounds, 5622 US-231 S, Dothan, AL The nation’s largest peanut festival, is held in Dothan, Alabama each fall to honor local peanut farmers and to celebrate the harvest season. Amusement rides, great Fair Food, Agriculture Exhibits, & music performances daily.

(334) 793-4323 www.nationalpeanutfestival.com

Peanut Butter Festival

Dates: October 30 Location: Downtown Brundidge Handmade arts, crafts, great food, produce, plants, furniture, home decor, and jewelry, as well as free kids activities. Demonstrations and exhibits for all ages. Live music and performances. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (334) 685-5524 piddle.org

Fall Farms & Pumpkin Patches

First UMC of Dothan’s Annual Pumpkin Patch ad on page 35

Dates: September 27-October 31; Hours: Monday-

Friday 10 a.m.-6 p.m. | Satuday 8 a.m.-7 p.m. | Sunday 12-6 p.m. Location: 1380 W. Main St., Dothan, AL 36301 Pumpkins of all shapes, sizes, and kinds. Find pumpkins for the kids to carve, paint, or decorate.

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Even pick out pumpkins for your home décor. Come enjoy the annual pumpkin patch and photo booth while supporting the different ministries of FUMC Dothan! (334) 793-3555 info@fumcdothan.org www.fumcdothan.org

Paradise Pumpkin Patch ad on page 25

Dates: October 2-31 Location: 894 Co. Rd. 79 S, Eufaula, AL 36027

Attractions and activities to delight kids from 2 to 92. Work a cane mill, try out old hand water pumps, listen to a working windmill, and browse the barn filled with antique farm equipment, animals and tack. Hop aboard a tractor-pulled hayride that will take you to the corn maze, pumpkin patch, and cotton field.

(334) 695-3600 hawkinsridge@earthlink.net www.paradisepumpkinpatch.com

Aplin Farms

Dates: October 1-November 1 Location: 2729 N. Co. Rd. 49, Dothan, AL 36305

Pick your own pumpkin and explore the two corn mazes at this u-pick farm just outside of Slocomb. Other features include the animal barn, inflatable park, wagon rides, and sunflower fields.

(334) 726-5104 japlin4863@gmail.com

Backyard Orchards

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

CornDodgers Farm

Dates: Weekends Only October 2-31 Location: 1555 Knowles Rd., Headland, AL 36345

Enjoy the taste of fall with over 24 attractions included with admission. Lots of yummy food available-chicken tenders, The Boss Hawg, kettle corn, boiled peanuts, snow cones, and more! Check out the 7 acre corn maze in our very own “Field of Dreams!”

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

Dothan Nurseries Pumpkin House 1300 Montgomery Hwy., Dothan, AL 36303 (334) 794-6774 office@dothannurseries.com www.dothannurseries.com

Fall Farmers Market

Dates: Tuesdays October 5-November 9 Location: Downtown, Ozark, AL 36360

2:30-5:30 p.m.

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

Maria’s Vineyard

Dates: Open Year round Location: 3940 Fortner St., Dothan, AL 36305

U-pick Muscadine vineyard. Rose gardens and jasmine-covered arbors create a unique event venue.

(334) 791-2514 veronicaphilpot77@gmail.com www.mariasvineyard.com

Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

Poplar Head Farmers Market

Dates: Saturdays in October Location: 610 N. Foster St., Dothan, AL 36303

The Boot Hill Cemetery and Rustlers’ Roost and encounter Ghosts, and arrive at The House of Clown Nightmares. Not recommended for children under 12. Tickets $10.

(334) 278-4420 donna_balzaratti@yahoo.com

Frightmares

Fresh autumn produce, jellies, horse tack, fall and winter home decor, arts & crafts, and more!

Reed Farm & Ranch

7426 Spooner Quarter Rd., Jakin, GA 39861 Pumpkin Patch, Corn Maze, Hay Rides, Sunflowers, Longhorn Cattle, U Pick Produce

hello@reedfarmranch.com www.reedfarmranch.com

Still Pond Vineyard, Winery & Distillery

Dates: Open Thursday-Saturday Year round Location: 1575 Still Pond Rd., Arlington, GA 39813

Tour the winery and processing facility and stroll through the vineyards. Complimentary tasting of 18 award-winning wines. (229) 792-6382 charlie@stillpond.com www.stillpond.com

The Hope Patch

Location: Fostering Hope, 17965 US Hwy 431, Headland, AL 36345 Choose the best pumpkins, take your annual fall family photo, and browse the various goodies available for purchase. Your visit to The Hope Patch will help provide needed items to foster children and foster families within six counties in Southeast Alabama! (334) 699-1563 fosteringhope334@gmail.com www.fosteringhopewiregrass.com

Dates: October 22--31 Location: 250 S. Foster St., Dothan, AL 36301

Come experience the truly Frightening in Dothan.

(334) 714-2004 sheabell828@gmail.com

Miscellaneous

Dates: Open Year round Location: 19326 Hwy 431 S, Headland, AL 36345

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

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

Haunted Houses Dates: October 1-2, 8-9, 15-16, 22-23, 29-31 Location: 306 S. Main St., Columbia, AL 36319

Travel back in time as former residents return from the afterlife accompanied by some familiar friends as you tour through their past abode. Not recommended for children under 6. Admission $13. A portion of the proceeds donated to Columbia Volunteer Fire & Rescue.

(334) 790-3335 columbiamanor13@gmail.com www.columbiamanor.com

Deans Haunted Mansion

Dates: Fridays & Saturdays in October + Halloween Location: 106 Washington St., Ft. Gaines, GA

Tickets $12 Kids, $15 Adults via EventBrite

Frite Nite

Dates: October 29 & 30 Location: Riding Stables

Trails, Ft. Rucker, AL 36362 Walk down The Haunted Trails and through the Swamp, Spider Web area, Witches arena, Corn Maze, Drop ‘n Hide zone, Fire ‘n Creepy Tree area, The Well, Mining Town & Mine Shaft, encounter the Headless Horseman, stroll through

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Dates: October 27-30 Location: Alabama Dance

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Works, 1077 W. Main St., Dothan, AL 36301 Fright Night: In the 50’s takes the audience through the twisted courses of the 1950’s game show, Beat the Clock. However, ADW has given it their own Fright Night spin. Each contestant must face their worst fears and make it through their challenge by beating the clock. Only then, can they walk away with their life.

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Halloween Fun Fest & Zombie Run ad on page 25

430 Landmark Dr., Dothan, AL 36303 5K Zombie Run plus kids activities, corn maze, tractor treat, music, food and more. Preregistration required for the Zombie Run. Run registration includes entry to the Halloween Kick Off.

(334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Landmark Park Low Country Boil ad on page 25

Dates: October 28 Location: 430 Landmark Dr.,

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Dates: October 2 Location: Landmark Park,

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Dothan, AL 36303 Shrimp, sausage, corn, potatoes and a blend of spices will simmer in a 60-gallon kettle for a mouthwatering dish. An online auction will feature items including trips, gift baskets, and more. Advance tickets are required.

(334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Smores ‘N Snores ad on page 3

Dates: October 15-16 Location: Eastgate Park,

1949 Sanitary Dairy Rd, Dothan, AL 36301 Family tent camp out for up to 40 families. There will be a movie with popcorn, scavenger hunt, nighttime hike, hot dogs, hamburgers, smores cooked on a firepit, a bonfire with story time, and a tent decorating contest. Cost: $10 per person

rkitts@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

Champions of Hope

Dates: October 16 Location: The Plant, 308 N.

St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36303 Revamped 5K, 10K and Spirit Walk routes that

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start and end at The Plant. A post-race tailgate celebration will include food, fun and college football live on the big screen. Champions after dark will feature a Hope Rocks Concert at The Plant. sehfoundation@southeasthealth.org www.sehealthfoundation.org/champions-of-hope/

Dothan Pro Rodeo

Dates: October 8-9 Location: National Peanut

Festival Fairgrounds, 5622 US 231 S., Dothan, AL 36301 Professional Rodeo featuring top cowboys and cowgirls from all over the country on the road to the National Finals Rodeo!

rodeomedia.ticketleap.com/dothan-pro-rodeo

Fall Choral & Theater Festival

Dates: November 6-10 Location: Cultural Arts

Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St., Dothan, AL 36301 Open to schools and drama clubs. Events include one-act, monologues, duologues, scenes, and musical theater.

theculturalartscenter.org

Halloween Costume Bowling Party

Dates: October 30 Location: Boll Weevil Lanes &

Amusements, 1505 E. Park Ave., Enterprise, AL Dj Str8Up will be turning out those Halloween favorite tunes. Costume Contest 7-8:30 p.m. Prizes for Adult, Ages 11-18, abd 11 & Under. Glo Bowl starts at 8 p.m.

Harloween!

Dates: October 30 Location: Live at Harlows,

190 W. Reynolds St., Ozark, AL 36360 Featuring the best local bands around! Come dress up or not, it’s all about hanging out with the coolest people on the planet and enjoying live music! Time 7:00 p.m.

Harry Potter Dinner & Class

Dates: October 23 Location: Black Cat Bakeshop

& Kitchen, 123 N. Main St., Enterprise, AL 36330 Join us for an evening of enchantment and kitchen wizardry. We will be learning how to make Butter Beer, Chocolate Frogs & Pumpkin Pasties. Cost: $45 per person. BYOB

to ages 18 and older. Registration will be held October 25-29 and November 2-5 from 8:30 a.m.4:30 p.m. at Doug Tew Therapeutic Center. Cost: $10 per participant

gfranklin@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

NW Florida Championship Rodeo Dates: October 7-9 Location: Memorial Field,

Veterans Blvd., Bonifay, FL 32425 Top rodeo contestants compete in seven events: Bareback Riding, Tie-Down Roping, Saddle Bronc Riding, Team Roping, Steer Wrestling, Barrel Racing, and Bull Riding. Gates open 5:30 p.m. nightly. Rodeo starts 7:00 p.m. Parade Friday & Saturday at 1 p.m.

(334) 475-4600

www.bonifayrodeo.com

Howl-O-Ween Pet Parade & Contest

Pumpkin Dunk and Fall Movie

Reynolds St., Ozark, AL 36360 Awards for Best Trick, Best Costume, Cutest, and Best in Show. Cost: $20 per pet. The first 15 entries will receive a goodie bag! Proceeds benefit Ozark Dale Co. Humane Society. Time 6:00 p.m.

Pool, 501 Recreation Rd., Dothan, AL 36303 Get ready for an afternoon of fall activities, including our Inaugural Pumpkin Dunk at Westgate Wellness Pool! Hocus Pocus will be shown poolside after the activities!

Dates: October 28 Location: Ozark Amphitheater,

Dates: October 23 Location: Westgate Wellness

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

kstakelum@dothan.org

Inaugural Thanksgiving Cornhole Tournament

Dates: November 27 It seems that a new Jack the

Dates: November 12 & 13 Location: Doug Tew

Therapeutic Center, 300 Garland St., Dothan, AL Proceeds benefit Special Olympics athletes. Open

The Dothan Ripper

Ripper is on the loose in Dothan and only you can put an end to the terror. Can your team of detectives scramble across town, solve the clues and crack the case before The Ripper strikes again?

www.cluedupp.com/products/the-ripper-dothan-al

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

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Scarecrows Scarecrow Festival & Car Show

Dates: October 30 Location: Culpepper Park,

Jingle Bell Market

Pumpkins on the Square

Center, 126 N. St. Andrews, Dothan, AL 36303 DaySpring Hospice Foundation is pleased to invite you to join our Jingle Bell Market. The event will feature vendors of all types to kick off your holiday shopping at the Dothan Civic Center.

members of the Elba Chamber of Commerce set up a fall carnival on Courthouse Square and give free candy and treats to kids. The festival also features Jack O’ Lanterns on the Levee Walk, bounce houses, outdoor scary movie, and Haunted Hayride.

Dates: October 28-30 Location: Dothan Civic

290 Daleville Ave., Daleville, AL 36322 Schedule of Events: Car Show from 10am-2pm, Scarecrow Festival from 1pm-5pm, Trick or Treat in the Park at sundown

(334) 305-0333 lpike@dayspringhospice.com

Scarecrows in the Gardens

Dates: October 2-5 & 9-12 2702 Ross Clark

Dates: October 1-31 Location: Dothan Area

Botanical Gardens, 5130 Headland Ave., Dothan, AL 36303 Join us for the Annual Scarecrows in the Gardens during the month of October. This year’s theme is “Every Day’s a Holiday!”

(334) 793-3224 dabg@dabg.com www.dabg.com

Scarecrows in the Park

Dates: October 1-November 30 Location: Frank Jackson State Park,

100 Jerry Adams Dr., Opp, AL 36467 Over 300 scarecrows are spread along approximately 3-miles of walking trails. The scarecrows are creatively made by various individuals, businesses, churches, and school groups. Golf cart tours available. Time 7:00 a.m.-sunset. (334) 493-6988

Shopping

Wiregrass Kids Market Fall Sale Circle, Dothan, AL 36301 Find name-brand items and amazing deals or sell your own! WKM has anything & everything baby or kid-related.

info@wiregrasskidsmarket.com www.wiregrasskidsmarket.com

Trick or Treating

Dothan Leisure Services Drive-Thru Trick or Treat ad on page 3

Dates: October 28 Location: James Oates Park,

371 Taylor Rd., Dothan, AL 36301 An alternative to door-to-door trick or treating, participants are offered a safe, fun, and central location to collect goodies. Vendors will set up in the Girls Softball Complex parking lot. Cars will enter through the Taylor Road side of the park. Time 5:30-8:00 p.m.

swingfield@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

Black Friday Pajama Party ad on page 7

Dates: November 26 Location: Downtown,

Enterprise, AL 36330 Roll out of bed, come in your pjs and join all the other “WHOS” to enjoy unique shopping in beautiful Downtown Enterprise at our Black Friday Pajama Party!

(334) 406-1274 mainstreet@enterpriseal.gov www.enterprisedowntown.org

Girls Night Out ad on page 7

Dates: October 2 Location: Downtown,

Enterprise, AL 36330 Please join us for Girls Night Out to benefit Breast Cancer Awareness Saturday October 2nd from 4pm-9pm in Downtown Enterprise. Event will feature refreshments, door prizes, swag bag, activities, and of course shopping!

(334) 406-1274 mainstreet@enterpriseal.gov www.enterprisedowntown.org

Holiday Open House ad on page 7

Dates: November 19-20 Location: Downtown,

Enterprise, AL 36330 It’s the Official Kickoff to our “Whoville Holidays” in Downtown Enterprise! Your holiday shopping will be Unique and FUN when you shop Downtown Enterprise!

(334) 406-1274 mainstreet@enterpriseal.gov www.enterprisedowntown.org

Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

Spooky in the City

Dates: October 31 Elba, AL 6:00-8:00 p.m. The

Special Needs Trunk or Treat

Dates: October 30 Location: Beacon of Hope

ABA, 181 W. Reynolds St., Ozark, AL 36360 Individuals with special needs are welcome to participate in our adaptive and sensory friendly trunk-or-treat! Costume contest at 6! We will also have Teal Pumpkin Project trade offs. Time 5 p.m.

(334) 477-4686 beaconofhopeaba@gmail.com ababeaconofhope.com

Trick or Treat in the Park

Dates: October 30 Location: Culpepper Park,

Midland City, AL No tricks here! Come in your Halloween costume and enjoy an evening of safe family fun. Check out our families who have decked out their vehicles with festive themes sure to intrigue everyone in your family. Time 5-7 p.m.

Trick or Treat Enterprise

Worth the Drive

Dates: October 30

Boo at Bellingrath

Halloween Scream

Dates: October 30 Location: Downtown Square,

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

(334) 693-3303 director@headlandal.org www. headlandal.org

Pumpkins on the Square

Dates: October 28 Location: Courrt Square,

Blakely, GA 39823 Pumpkin decorating contest, kids costume contest, pet costume contest, face painting, games, photo booth, & music. 5:00-8:00 p.m. EST

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Dates: October 30 Location: Hinton Waters Ave.,

Dothan, AL 36303 A safe place for your little ghouls and goblins to trick or treat. Richie B’s will also be open for food, drink and restrooms. 5pm-8pm or when the candy runs out. Vehicles provide their own treats! Please keep the kiddos under 13yrs old.

The City of Enterprise is celebrating Halloween Trick or Treat hours from 5pm to 7pm.

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Trunk or Treat

Visit 10 different Spooky Stops around the city. Teams who stop at all 10 Spooky Stops and complete the virtual game riddles will be provided a link to enter their team for a chance to win a Spooky in the City Prize. Time 5:30-8:30 p.m.

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Trunk or Treat @ Richie B’s

(334) 348-2684 eprd@enterpriseal.gov www.enterpriseal.gov/379/Spooky-in-the-City

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290 Daleville Ave, Daleville, AL 36322 Join us for this FREE Community Event! Come and hand out candy to the kids or bring your little ones to participate in the fun. This event was a big hit last year, so you don’t want to miss out! 6:00-8:00 p.m.

ad on page 7

Dates: October 29 Enterprise, AL 36330

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Dates: October 30 Location: 3590 Ross Clark Cir.,

Dates: October 23 Location: Bellingrath Gardens,

12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd., Theodore, AL Dress up your little ghosts and goblins and enjoy an evening of Halloween fun at Bellingrath! The Gardens will be filled with spooky and fun inflatables, and local businesses and organizations will set up numerous treat stations to hand out candy and trinkets to guests of all ages from 3-6 p.m.

bellingrath@bellingrath.org bellingrath.org

Boo at the Zoo

Dates: October 30 Location: Chehaw Park & Zoo,

105 Chehaw Park Rd., Albany, AL 31701 Halloween-themed fun for all ages! Come in costume for a chance to win prizes! Lots of fun Halloween themed games and activities, special Halloween animal enrichment, tons of fun prizes, and candy! Time 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. EST

(229) 430-5275 www.chehaw.org

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Chautauqua Winery’s Harvest Festival

Dates: October 16 Location: Chautauqua Vine-

yards and Winery, 364 Hugh Adams Rd., DeFuniak Springs, FL Free admission. Family friendly. Arts & Crafts. Live Entertainment. Complimentary Wine Tasting.

Monster Mas Dash 5K Glow Run-Walk Dates: October 23 Location: City Hall,

505 E. 3 Notch St., Andalusisa, AL 36420 Dress up in your most fun costumes and bring any glow in the dark items you would like to use. We will have prizes for the most creative costumes! All proceeds go to benefit community outreach projects and benevolence requests.

(334) 427-3369 wanda.woods@powersouth.com

Oktoberfest

Dates: October 23 Location: Downtown, Troy, AL

A day full of live music, televisions for football, food & drink specials at our Downtown Eateries, and inflatables/games for the kids.

Pioneer Days

Dates: October 8-9 Location: Pioneer Museum of

Alabama, 248 Hwy. 231 North, Troy, AL 36081 History comes alive during Pioneer Days as skilled artisans and craftsmen in period dress demon-

strate woodworking, rope making, blacksmithing, candle making, chair caning, spinning, weaving, and more.

(334) 566-3597 pioneer@troycable.net www.pioneer-museum.org

Pirates of the High Seas Fest Dates: October 8-10 Location: Panama City Beach, FL 32413

Pirate-fans can participate in several online and in-person activities, including story-telling videos, downloadable themed crafts, a digital pirate costume contest and even an in-person treasure hunt.

www.visitpanamacitybeach.com

Great Pumpkin Luminights

Dates: September 24-October 31 Location: Wild Adventures Theme Park,

3766 Old Clyattville Rd., Valdosta, GA 31601 Great Pumpkin LumiNights lights up the park with thousands of illuminated pumpkins. These largerthan-life glowing displays take the shape of some of our favorite wild animals. As you explore, you’ll find glowing surprises and not-frightful fun that the entire family will enjoy. contactus@wildadventures.com www.wildadventures.com

Tricks & Treats

Dates: October 22 Location: Flint RiverQuarium,

101 Pine Ave., Albany, GA 31701 Join us for trick-or-treating fun at the Flint Riv-

erQuarium and Throntateeska, and along the “Candy Path” (aka Riverfront Trail) as well! Time 4:00-6:00 p.m. EST

(229) 639-2650 www.flintriverquarium.com

Witches Ride of Andalusia

Dates: October 23 Location: Downtown,

Andalusia, AL 36420 The Junior Service League of Andalusia is asking all fellow witches to suit up and come parade through the town! Cost: $10 to walk, $20 for bike riders, or $30 for golf carts (additional $5 for more than 2 riders). Time 5:00-6:00 p.m.

Witches of South Walton Witches Ride

Dates: October 29 & 30 Dedicated to raising mon-

ey for the Children’s Volunteer Health Network.

board@witchesofsouthwalton.com www.witchesofsouthwalton.com

Zoo Boo

Dates: October 30 & 31 Location: Zoo World,

9008 Front Beach Rd., Panama City Beach, FL Trick or Treat with the WILDest bunch around! ZooWorld’s annual ZooBoo celebration has DOUBLE the CANDY, HATCHET THROWING for the adults, STORM TROOPERS, facepainting, games, and a MAKE A WAND station for the kids.

(850) 230-1243 info@zooworldpcb.com zooworldpcb.com WP

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FamilyCalendar Friday October 1

Steel Magnolias (Tickets $22) 7:30 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 166 Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 Truvy’s salon is Chinquapin, Louisiana’s go-to place for a beauty fix with a hearty side of gossip. Along with her overeager assistant Annelle, Truvy pampers her small-town clients with hairdos, manicures and all kinds of unsolicited advice. Anybody who’s anybody is a regular: There’s the doting M’Lynn and her soon-to-be-married daughter Shelby, the moody Ouiser and the well-to-do widow Clairee. Through witty banter and wisecracks, this hodgepodge group of women form friendships as strong as steel. www.swampgravy.com (229) 758-5450

Saturday October 2

First Saturday Family Day (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Stop by WMA to pick up a FSFD activity packet. The free packets will be handed out on a first-come, firstserved basis until they are gone. Be sure to check WMA’s Facebook page for more information and video demonstrations of each monthly activity! www.wiregrassmuseum.org Steel Magnolias (Tickets $22) 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Details October 1. www.swampgravy.com (229) 758-5450

Sunday October 3

Wiregrass Out of the Darkness Walk 1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds, Dothan, AL, 36301www.afsp.org/dothan Reptile Feeding (Adults $4, Kids $3) 4:00 p.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Meet Indie our Eastern Indigo snake, along with our Corn snake and several turtles and learn why these animals are important to the environment. www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Tuesday October 5

Mug IT Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Each month, we will offer different recipes to make entirely in your mug. This program is for ages 13-23. Kits will be available in our Youth Services Library while supplies last. Staff reserves the right to limit the quantity given out at any one time. www.dhcls.org Mug IT Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Ashford, 305 6th Ave. Ashford, AL, 36312 Each month, we will offer different recipes to make entirely in your mug. This program is for ages 13-23. Kits will be available in our Youth Services Library while supplies last. Staff reserves the right to limit the quantity given out at any one time. www.dhcls.org

Thursday October 7

Crafty Teen: Popsicle Stick Photo Frames Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 This month’s project will be Popsicle Stick Photo Frames and will include everything needed. The video with instructions will be

Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

posted on the library’s TikTok @DHCLS_Youth. This project is for Ages 13-18, available while supplies last. www.dhcls.org Book Bites 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m., Ozark-Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Join us for a three part series for kids in Kindergarten - 4th Grade to discover healthy habits through stories, activities, and discussions with Kim Carroll, a nutrition educator. Topics covered include physical activity, healthy eating, and screen time.

S.O.S. Dog Wash 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Consignment Cat, 1235 Rucker Blvd. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Our crew is pretty amazing at getting your pup spic and span, including nails trimmed, and at the same time, you’re helping to support Coffee County’s only no-kill animal shelter. If you like working with dogs, we’d also welcome your assistance at these events. Cookies & Canvas ($20 for 11X14 or $35 per 16X20 Canvas)

Deana Carter (Acoustic) (Tickets: $25, $35, $25) 8:00 p.m. Dothan Opera Houst, 115 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Don’t miss country music singer-songwriter Deana Carter with special guest Faren Rachels perform a live acoustic show. www.dothanciviccenter.org (334) 615-3175

1:00 p.m. All About Art, 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 363630 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). www.AllAboutArtStudio.com allaboutartstudio@ gmail.com (334) 348-2738

Friday October 8

Steel Magnolias (Tickets $22) 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Details October 1.

Steel Magnolias (Tickets $22) 7:30 p.m. Details October 1.

Saturday October 9

Young Eagles Rally (Free) 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., 770 Flightline Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Launched in 1992, the Young Eagles program has dedicated more than 25 years to giving youth ages 8–17 their first free ride in an airplane. chapters.eaa.org/eaa1358/young-eagles Toddler Tales ($20 per child) 10:00 a.m. All About Art, 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 363630 We offer a light refreshment and story time for your toddler while giving step by step instruction on a project (typically pottery) related to the book that we are featuring that month. www.AllAboutArtStudio.com allaboutartstudio@ gmail.com (334) 348-2738 Artist Workshop: Art Bookmaking with Aimee Burr (Members $60; Non-members $70) 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 October 9, 16, & 23. Ages: 7th–12th graders. Join Aimee Burr as she teaches a sampling of the basic accordion fold. Kids will make three books, each adding a new level to the accordion. Before you even begin folding, you will make your stamps to add personal details to all of your books! www.wiregrassmuseum.org 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

Wednesday October 13

Crafternoon Tea 2:00 p.m. Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Join us on Facebook for a different craft tutorial every month! The items needed will be prepackaged with instructions for a craft to take home! Your packet will also include a tea! PACKET PICK UP IS AT THE WESTGATE AND ASHFORD BRANCHES ONLY! www.dhcls.org Crafternoon Tea 2:00 p.m. Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Ashford, 305 6th Ave. Ashford, AL, 36312 Join us on Facebook for a different craft tutorial every month! The items needed will be prepackaged with instructions for a craft to take home! Your packet will also include a tea! PACKET PICK UP IS AT THE WESTGATE AND ASHFORD BRANCHES ONLY! www.dhcls.org

Thursday October 14

Book Bites 4:00 p.m. - 4:45 p.m., Ozark-Dale Co. Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Join us for a three part series for kids in Kindergarten - 4th Grade to discover healthy habits through stories, activities, and discussions with Kim Carroll, a nutrition educator. Topics covered include physical activity, healthy eating, and screen time. Teen Nature Club 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Students in grades 6-10 are invited to participate in the nature club at the Main Library that will be held every other Thursday afternoon from 4:00-530. 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. www.dhcls.org Virtual Artist Talk: Jerry Siegel 6:00 p.m. - 7:30 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Renowned photographer Jerry Siegel will discuss his career and process, examining his work chronologically from the

www.wiregrassparents.com

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FamilyCalendar first project to his present-day work. After 35 years of professional experience, Jerry often captures the cultural landscape and people of the American South. www.wiregrassmuseum.org

providing resources and services to pregnant clients and families in the Dale County area. home.dalecountypregnancycenter.com dalecountypc@gmail.com (334) 774-4419

Friday October 15

Artist Workshop: Art Bookmaking with Aimee Burr (Members $60; Non-members $70) 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Details October 9.

Steel Magnolias (Tickets $22) 7:30 p.m. Details October 1.

Saturday October 16

Scrabble Run 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Daleville Area Chamber of Commerce, 750 S. Daleville Ave. Daleville, AL, 36362 A fun spin on your traditional poker run with more ways to win. www.dalevilleareachamber.com chamber@dalevilleal.com (334) 598-6331 Donuts & Door Hangers ($35-$55 per project) 9:00 a.m. All About Art, 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL, 363630 We provide Delicious Donuts and Coffee from Downtown Donuts and Coffee Corner, both located in Beautiful Downtown Enterprise, along with step by step instruction on seasonally themed Door Hangers. This class is best suited for ages tween and up. Prices Vary Based on Door Hanger Project. www.AllAboutArtStudio.com allaboutartstudio@ gmail.com (334) 348-2738 Walk for Life 9:00 a.m. Police Memorial Park, Ozark, AL, 36360 All proceeds benefit the Dale County Pregnancy Center in

Steel Magnolias (Tickets $22) 2:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Details October 1.

Sunday October 17

An Evening with C.S. Lewis starring David Payne 2:00 p.m. Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 C.S. Lewis hosts a group of American writers at his home. Throughout the evening he recalls the people and events that inspired his thought and shaped his life; of his friendship with J.R.R. Tolkien; why he nearly abandoned the Narnia Chronicles; how he came to embrace Christianity and of the American woman who turned his life upside down. www.dothanciviccenter.org (334) 615-3175

Wednesday October 20

Wiregrass Fields of Faith 6:00 p.m. Westgate Soccer Fields, Dothan, AL, 36303 Christianity needs a change in momentum—students who will stand together against the pressures and temptations in our world and be a generation that is committed to reading the Bible and applying it to their lives. Self Help 7:00 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 A married pair of second-rate theatre actors cast themselves as self-help gurus. Much to their surprise, they become the world’s most revered relationship experts. Their careers skyrocket as their own marriage takes a nose dive. www.seact.com

Thursday October 21

Tuesday October 19

Self Help 7:00 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 A married pair of second-rate theatre actors cast themselves as self-help gurus. Much to their surprise, they become the world’s most revered relationship experts. Their careers skyrocket as their own marriage takes a nose dive. www.seact.com

Art After Hours (Members Free, Non-Members $5) 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, and take in the art on display. You might even have a chance to speak with one of the exhibiting artists or try your hand at an in-gallery activity. www.wiregrassmuseum.org

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FamilyCalendar Daleville Boys & Girls Club Fundraiser Banquet & Silent Auction (Tickets $20) 6:00 p.m. Daleville Cultural & Convention Center, 750 S. Daleville Ave. Daleville, AL, 36362 Come join us for our First Annual Fundraiser Banquet & Silent Auction. Special performances from our members and a guest speaker TBA, and much more! RSVP by Sept. 20. Tickets available at Clubhouse. This will be an event you DON’T want to miss! dir.bgc@dalevilleal.com (334) 494-5182 Self Help 7:00 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 A married pair of second-rate theatre actors cast themselves as self-help gurus. Much to their surprise, they become the world’s most revered relationship experts. Their careers skyrocket as their own marriage takes a nose dive. www.seact.com

Saturday October 30

HomeTown Half4Kids (Registration $10) 8:00 a.m. Westgate Park, 501 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Kids in grades K-5 will log 12.1 miles prior to the race, and on Oct. 31, they will run 1 mile at the HomeTown Half4Kids race. They will earn a kid’s size Half Marathon medal and get a cool tech shirt. www.runthecircle.com racedirector@runthecircle.com (334) 677-2832

Sunday October 31

Dothan Running Festival 7:00 a.m. 200 Vulcan Way Dothan, AL, 36303 Run America’s First Circle and collect a peanut medal. www.runthecircle.com racedirector@ runthecircle.com (334) 677-2832

Friday October 22

7:30 p.m. Cotton Hall Theater, 166 Main St. Colquitt, GA, 39837 Welcome to Almost, Maine, a place that’s so far north, it’s almost in Canada. And it’s not quite a town, because it’s residents never got around to getting organized. So it almost doesn’t exist. One cold, clear, winter night, as the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, the residents of Almost, Maine, find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways. www.swampgravy.com (229) 758-5450

Saturday October 23

Artist Workshop: Art Bookmaking with Aimee Burr (Members $60; Non-members $70) 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m., Details October 9. Almost Maine (Tickets $15) 2:00 p.m. One cold, clear, winter night, as the northern lights hover in the star-filled sky above, the residents of Almost, Maine, find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways. Self Help 7:00 p.m. Cultural Arts Center, 909 S. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36301 A married pair of second-rate theatre actors cast themselves as self-help gurus. Much to their surprise, they become the world’s most revered relationship experts. Their careers skyrocket as their own marriage takes a nose dive. www.seact.com

Thursday November 4

Every Monday

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

Every Tuesday

Story & Craft Time (Free) 10:00 a.m. Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, Join us for our virtual story time each week. Crafts for each MONTH will be available for pickup at all three libraries while supplies last. One per child. No large groups or daycare pick-ups. Stories and crafts are designed for ages 2-6. www.dhcls.org 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

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

Almost Maine (Tickets $15) 6:00 p.m. Details October 22.

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!

Thursday October 28

Every Thursday

Teen Nature Club 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Details October 14. www.dhcls.org

Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

Story Time (Free) Ozark-Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Join us for a roarin’ good summer during

our “Tails and Tales” Summer Reading Program! Registration is required to participate! Forms are available online and at the Library. 10:30am and 4:00pm. ozarklibrary.com chlibrary@troycable.net (334) 774-5480

Every Friday

Technology Class (Free) 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Ozark-Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 A FREE one-hour class with Mr. Andrew that provides assistance with smartphones, tablets, and e-readers. By appointment only - call or register at the front desk. ozarklibrary.com chlibrary@troycable.net (334) 774-5480

Every Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Planetarium Shows ($3 per person) Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL, 36303 Featuring “To Space & Back” in July. 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. www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Every Saturday

Computer Class (Free) 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m., Ozark-Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Mr. Darnell will teach computer basics and if you have questions, he has answers!! ozarklibrary.com (334) 774-5480 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. www.AllAboutArtStudio.com allaboutartstudio@ gmail.com (334) 348-2738 Pokemon League at Home (Free) 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m., Ozark-Dale Co. Public Library, 416 James St. Ozark, AL, 36360 Pokémon League at Home is a new interactive way for players to take part in events and tournaments from the safety of their home. Players will be able to earn digital prizes by participating in different challenges. ozarklibrary.com chlibrary@troycable.net (334) 774-5480

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

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Make Your Annual Pumpkin Patch Tradition Happen at First United Methodist Church!

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(At the corner of Park and Main) 1380 W. Main St., Dothan, AL

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Open Every Day in October! Monday-Friday: 10am-6pm Saturday: 8am-7pm Sunday: 12pm-6pm

Thousands of pumpkins in all shapes and sizes! We have small & unique pumpkins to add to your fall home decor, warty pumpkins perfect for contests, and big pumpkins perfect for carving! We also have wonderful photo spaces. Your purchases at the FUMC Pumpkin Patch in previous years have helped fund youth missions and Christmas with the Harbor. But, this year, we’ve added three other ministries to the list! This year’s pumpkin patch sales will also support our Children’s Ministry, Tweens Ministry, and Weekday Children's Ministry! Come pick out your pumpkins while showing support for our local church ministries! See you soon! 35

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really worked! I think it gives all the kids a little bit of an uncommon perspective. For the older girls, being like little bonus moms at times, helping fix snacks or lunches and babysitting. For the younger kids, having the extra love and support of a much cooler version of Mama. WP: As the mom of four kids, life is undoubtedly busy, but it’s important to make time for one-on-one connection with each of them. What does that look like for your family?

Ciji Danielle Serdula

CS: This is a tough one, but super important. They will tell me if I am falling short in this area, for sure! I work full time so I have to maximize my little opportunities. I make sure to keep in mind what they like when I am planning one-on-one time. Jenna enjoys shopping trips with just me and her. Quality time is absolutely one of her love languages, so I will hear it loud and clear If I need to do better! Jaycie and I like to take walks with the dog and talk about whatever. We try to do this a couple times a week. Elliot likes to ride his bike and is very good at it! We take little bike rides around the neighborhood. Then with Leia, it’s easy. She has cheer class every Thursday so we do that together and I practice with her throughout the week. I have tried to instill the importance of a healthy and active lifestyle in each one of them. It’s easy to come up with quick and fun things to do with that in mind. We enjoy hiking Forever Wild together and riding bikes at James Oates Park often.

WP: How would you describe your parenting style? CS: Relaxed and laid back. I think letting kids be kids and navigate as much of their day on their own as they can, with some oversight of course, helps foster creativity by using their imaginations to the fullest. It really is fascinating to watch kids just be kids and see the interesting little games and scenarios they come up with! When they have spats with each other, I encourage them to figure out a solution on their own, but most of the time they realize it’s not that big of a deal anyway!

WP: Do you have any organizational or time management hacks that help you stay on top of everyone’s schedules and activities? CS: We have found ourselves falling into a pretty solid routine over the past few years. I think having that helps. Of course, since the younger kids have started picking up afternoon activities we have had to fine tune our flexibility. The kids know the drill after school: snacks, homework, play, dinner, baths, devices turned in by 7, then bed by 8. With the older girls, of course, things look a lot different! I do encourage them to have lights out by 10 during the week. As far as making household tasks easier, we build our grocery list through the week. Everyone participates! I try to encourage each child to offer one meal suggestion and we place an order for weekend pickup. Grocery pickup is such a life saver. We are fortunate that Ryan is usually home in time to take care of dinner so by the time I get home we can jump right into having dinner and anything else we need to do for the evening.

WP: You have two teenagers. What’s it like navigating that sea of hormones? CS: Oh it’s fun! Now, I can’t speak on how boys are like as teenagers, but girls, I have had a healthy dose! It’s really eye-opening to see yourself in them mostly, especially when one of your most prominent traits is stubbornness. At the same time, watching them turn into these really interesting people that you really didn’t expect is especially cool. What else is fascinating is how different each child can be! Jenna is fun loving and outgoing, where Jaycie is more introspective and imaginative. It’s just been a crazy, wild ride for sure, but right now I think is a sweet spot for them. They get along really well. That has not always been the case. Anyone with a sister can attest to that, I am sure.

WP: If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be? CS: Perfection is an illusion. Just do you and enjoy every minute I think we as moms get caught up in this idealistic perception we have of ourselves and it’s not always the best thing for us. It’s okay to be a little messy and unrefined! I think we are all more alike than what we think, and the façade that we sometimes put on only hinders ourselves and others. So ultimately being true to yourself is the best bet. WP: Any words of wisdom or advice for new moms?

WP: Your kids are pretty spaced out in age. Was that intentional, and why?

CS: Give yourself a little grace and know that there is beauty in the process. It’s not always smooth sailing, but you will have a lot of wins. I guess the most practical advice I would offer is to not take on too much. When you spread yourself thin everything suffers and you can’t give the best version of yourself to those that need you the most.

CS: I have always wanted a big family. I think it just kind of evolved into what it is by chance. I had my first two girls pretty young. I went through nursing school with an infant and three year old while their father worked. Directly following my graduation, their father dove into engineering school. Those years were a whirlwind. Ultimately, we went different directions and I met and married my current husband and father of my youngest two. The age differences have Wiregrass Parents I October 2021

Ciji Danielle Serdula is a case manager at Wesley Place on Honeysuckle. She and her husband, Ryan, have been married for eight years. They have four children: Jenna (17), Jayce (14), Elliot (7), and Leia (5).

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National Lead Poisoning Prevention Week 2021 October 24-30, 2021

Get the Facts Get Your Home Get Your About Lead Tested if Built Child Tested Poisoning Before 1978 for Lead

• Most children get lead poisoning from paint in homes built before 1978. • Lead poisoning can cause permanent learning and behavior problems.

• Contractors must be certified to perform lead testing and renovations in pre-1978 homes; it’s the law.

• A blood test is the only way to know if your child has lead poisoning. • It is recommended all children be tested at ages 1 and 2.

Visit our website to learn more about lead poisoning. ADPH Environmental Alabama Childhood Lead Services Lead Branch Poisoning Prevention Program 1-800-819-7644 1-833-667-1495 alabamapublichealth.gov/lead alabamapublichealth.gov/aclppp 1 www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents This ad is 100% funded with federal dollars through a cooperative agreement with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.