Issuu

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

Parents

stop

hpv

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.

Don’t Delay.

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

DOSE #2

DOSE #3

9 years until 15th birthday

6-12 months after dose #1

Not Needed

15 years or older

1-2 months after dose #2

Approximately 4 months after dose #2

Visit alabamapublichealth.gov/imm for more information and other available resources. 1

www.facebook.com/auburnopelika.parents

November2021 18

Volume 4 Number 3

Columns

From the Publisher Ashton Wright

Sports Specialization?

The pros and cons of having your child stick with only one sport.

Tweens, Teens & Screens Setting screen time on your child’s device is an easy win for you.

The Early Years Kishia Saffold

Kids Health Watch

27 32

by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Family Eye Health Sponsored by Eye Center South

22 Tweens, Teens and

The Science of Giving

How giving enhances kids’ lives and how parents can promote it.

Use our guide as you plan your family outings to celebrate the holidays!

Screens

Kristi Bush, LSW

Departments 9

On The Cover William Henry Daughtry, 10 months, is the son of Taylor and Kristin Daughtry. He has a two-year-old sister,

Teacher of the Month 10

School Bits 36

Mom to Mom

Ruby, and will gain a brother early next year.

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

FromThePublisher The Area’s Go-To Resource for Families

I saw a meme on Facebook not too long ago that I really related to. It talked about how your 20s are a time of self-discovery so that your 30s can be the start of living life as your true self. Man, I felt that. In my 20s, I was so focused on fitting in and finding my tribe, which I’m happy to report I did, but it truly took the entirety of that decade for me to figure out who I am on my own and how to be comfortable in my own skin. Now that I’m mid-way through my 30s, I can confidently say that I embrace who I am as a person. This year, my birthday is on Black Friday, which brings back some interesting childhood memories when we spent the Thanksgiving weekend with my grandparents in Florida. The boys would hunt while my mom and I would go Black Friday shopping with my granny. One year, we were in Tallahassee shopping and took a break for our annual birthday lunch at Olive Garden. That particular year, Granny drank a glass of wine and got unreasonably tipsy for having only had the one glass. Turns out, she had started taking a new medicine that did not react well with alcohol. As we were leaving, she struck up a conversation with a man in the lobby, which isn’t all that out of character for her. But, when my mom and I went to get in our car to leave, we realized Granny was arm-in-arm with her new friend and had forgotten all about us! To me, this really is the most wonderful time of the year in the Wiregrass. There are a ton of great shows like Alabama Dance Works’ Santa’s Workshop and SEACT’s Elf the Musical, not to mention all the festivals like Andalusia’s Christmas in Candyland. We’ve rounded them all up in our annual Holiday Happenings Guide. We’re also taking a deeper look into The Science of Giving and How It Can Help Your Kids in this month’s feature article. I make it a point to give back as much as I can all year, but there are a ton of ways to get involved during the holiday season. Some of my favorites are Toys for Tots, Operation Christmas Child, and the Salvation Army’s Kettle Bell and Angel Tree programs. You can find a comprehensive list of opportunities like these in the holiday guide, as well. Every year on my birthday, I like to reflect back on the things I’m most thankful for over the past year. Despite COVID, year 34 was a good one for me. I found a great health coach who’s helped me reconnect with my body; no one in my immediate family had any COVID complications; my personal blog is thriving; and I was able to find creative ways to advance Wiregrass Parents. As we kick off the holidays, I hope you and your family find all the love, light, and laughter this season has to offer. From my family to yours, Happy Thanksgiving!

Publisher Ashton Wright ashton@wiregrassparents.com (334) 714-7831 Editor DeAnne Watson editor@wiregrassparents.com Associate Editor Alison Rouse Contributing Writers Kristi Bush, LSW Kirk Jones, OD 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 November 2021

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.

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.

www.wiregrassparents.com

on the verse, ur ne is the

Nov. 6-10 Dothan Opera House ❃ Cultural Arts Center Visit SEACT.com for schedule & locations

Open Enrollment Nov/Dec theatre and dance Ages 5-18

2. .

n in ed. are the

SEACT.com www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

TheEarlyYears Childcare Insights from Kishia Saffold

Raising Grateful Children In today’s society it seems our children feel entitled, and at some point all of us as parents have experienced cringe-worthy moments where our child’s ungrateful attitude becomes evident. So how do you teach your children to show gratitude and empathy, especially as we prepare to enter into this holiday season? Have you ever heard the expression “monkey see, monkey do?” Modeling good behavior for your kids is probably the most impactful way you can demonstrate gratitude and empathy. It’s important they hear you thank the clerk at the store and thank them for bringing you a glass of water. I know it can come across as the polite thing to say rather than gratitude, but it’s a great start. Performing acts of kindness is another great way to demonstrate empathy and gratitude. I subscribe to Marie Kondo Art of Tidying, and a couple of times a year, I go through my closet and discard items that are no longer bringing me joy. I take my clothes to the local

Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

Salvation Army or Goodwill that directly impacts my community. Having children donate gentlyused clothes and toys to those less fortunate is another way of driving that point home. On the car ride, talk to your children about gratitude and make it a point to share what you’re grateful for. Even when you have a rough day or something bad happens, point out that there’s still a lot to feel grateful for. UNC Chapel Hill recently explored raising grateful children. Researchers say there are four parts of gratitude: noticing the things in our life for which we can be grateful; thinking about why we have been given those things; how we feel about the things we’ve been given; and what we do to express appreciation. There are countless opportunities to teach our children about gratitude. We just may not have discovered them all yet. Helping our kids take notice of the things they’ve received by asking targeted questions is a good place to begin.

Ask your child what they’re grateful for, why they think they received a gift, if they think they should give a gift in return, how they feel about receiving the gift, and if there’s a way they’d like to show how they’re feeling. These questions can help grow gratitude and lead to your children noticing what they already have, thus motivating them to perform acts of gratitude toward others. Before you know it, your child will not only be saying “thank you” unprompted, but they’ll also mean it.

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

www.wiregrassparents.com

nk l

m o

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Downtown Dothan Ice Rink

Victorian Christmas

November 26-January 9 Wadlington Park, North Foster Street, Dothan AL www.iceskatedothan.com Downtown Dothan will have a brand new attraction this year! A seasonal ice skating rink is being built in Wadlington Park on North Foster Street. The City of Dothan and the Dothan Downtown Redevelopment Authority are excited to provide this amenity that folks in the south don’t normally experience! The ice rink will be open from November 26 – January 9. The cost is $10/person, which includes an ice skate rental and unlimited time on the ice! The hours of operation are Tuesdays - Thursdays from 10 a.m. – 9 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m., Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 10 p.m., and Sundays from 1 p.m. – 8 p.m. Mondays will be closed for maintenance and private events. The rink will be open on Christmas Day from 1 p.m. – 9 p.m., and on New Year’s Eve from 10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Special event nights will be announced soon! Follow us on Instagram at @iceskatedothan, or visit www.iceskatedothan.com.

Sunday, December 12, 1:00-4:00 p.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan AL 36303 Free * www.landmarkparkdothan.com Listen to Christmas carols and visit with Santa. Enjoy snacks, arts and crafts, music, wagon rides and handmade decorations. A circuit riding preacher will deliver a holiday message. Admission is free and visitors are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items for donation to the Food Bank.

SEACT Presents Elf the Musical

December 14-19 * 7:00 p.m. nightly Dothan Opera House, 115 N. St. Andrews St., Dothan AL 36303 www.seact.com Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. Embrace your inner elf and join Buddy as he crosses over from the confectionately sweet life of Santa’s elves to the harsh reality of finding his birth father in New York City. This oversized elf is determined to move Dad from the naughty to nice list, and remind his new family of the true meaning of Christmas. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear!

Christmas in Candyland

December 3-31 * Downtown Andalusia Free Admission, christmasincandyland.com Your winter wonderland adventure is waiting for you! Make lasting holiday memories, create beautiful photo opportunities and watch children’s imaginations grow. Enjoy imaginative play cottages for kids, train rides, snow tubing, ice skating, Christmas lights and decorations, musical acts, and snow shows every weekend at this holiday event.

Gardens Aglow

November 26-27, December 3-4, 10-11, 17-18 5:00-8:00 p.m. nightly, Dothan Area Botanical Gardens 5130 Headland Ave., Dothan AL 36303 Admission: $8 over age 8; www.dabg.com This event is a walking tour through a portion of the Gardens where visitors will be able to stroll at their own pace and enjoy the numerous Christmas lights and holiday displays. This year’s event will feature new displays as well as the popular hidden objects in the trees along the trail so be sure to bring along your flashlights so you can find them all. This is a great holiday family event as well as a fun place to take any visitors you may have in town for Thanksgiving or Christmas. The Gardens take on a magical look lit up for the holidays, so be sure you don’t miss this opportunity to see the Gardens at night.

Teen Nature Club: Radical Reptiles

Thursday, November 18, 4-5:30 p.m. Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main Location, 445 N. Oates St., Dothan AL 36303 Free * www.dhcls.org 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. This week, Landmark Park will present their Radical Reptiles program. In this program, students will learn the importance of reptiles as well as their distinguishing characteristics, the different adaptations reptiles have to survive in their environment as well as what kinds of reptiles can be found in this area. Live animals will be joining us for this program. Space is limited and registration is required. Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

www.wiregrassparents.com

Sa f

mo W fir

c ne a

tly

, dy o r es et n m anng

First Saturday Family Day: Origami Ornaments

Saturday, December 4, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave., Dothan AL 36303 Free * www.wiregrassmuseum.org Saturdays are the perfect day for children and families to create and explore art together! First Saturday Family Day, one of WMA’s longestrunning educational programs, offers free art activities on the first Saturday of every month for lifelong learners of all ages. In 2021, WMA will offer free FSFD art packets for the first 100 guests at the museum, to be picked up each First Saturday. Each packet will contain detailed instructions and all supplies needed to create that month’s FSFD activity, and will be handed out on a first-come, firstserved basis until they are gone.

Artist Workshop: Charlie Lucas

Saturday, November 20, 1:00-3:00 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave., Dothan AL Cost: Members $40, Non-Members $50 www.wiregrassmuseum.org Charlie Lucas, also known as “The Tin Man”, will join us for a hands-on creative experience with kids ages 7-17! Lucas will lead kids on a gallery adventure to explore his exhibition Charlie Lucas & Yvonne Wells: What I Knew How to Do to find inspiration for the workshop. Each student will create their own mixed media piece with the guidance and encouragement of Lucas. Masks are required at all WMA functions as a COVID-19 precaution, and will be required for this workshop. Pre-registration is also required by Monday, November 15th. Space is limited, and you can register over the phone today by calling 334-794-3871.

Decorating Workshop

Sunday, December 5, 1:00 p.m. Landmark Park, 430 Landmark Dr., Dothan AL 36303 FREE * www.landmarkparkdothan.com Spread some holiday cheer at Landmark Park at the Holiday Decorating WorkshopCreate wreaths, garlands and swags out of natural materials and decorate Landmark Park for Victorian Christmas and make some decorations to take home! Refreshments will be provided. Registration required. This event is supported by the Wiregrass Master Gardeners. Admission is free.

e .

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

KidsHealthWatch

Sponsored by Dothan Pediatric Healthcare Network

Sharing More Than a Meal Fall is in the air, and with the seasonal change comes the anticipation of the holiday seasons—more specifically, Thanksgiving, which is one of my personal favorites. I not only anticipate eating my fill of so many delicious foods, but I also look forward to the time spent gathering with my family and sharing a meal and conversation together. Thanksgiving Day has been designated as another national holiday as well—National Family History Day. Knowing your family health history is an important way to protect your health. Many diseases, such as cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, can be inherited. Knowing what illnesses run in your close blood relatives can help you and your doctor decide your risk and necessary screening to prevent and identify disease before it is evident, in some cases. Collecting your family health history is an important first step. Gather the names of close relatives on both sides of your family—parents, siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, nieces,

Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

nephews—and start the conversation. A complete record should include three generations of relatives. Record what medical conditions they have or had, including what ages they were first diagnosed. Find out the causes and ages of death for relatives who have passed. Some medical information is sensitive and having open conversation about medical history may be uncomfortable for some family members. COVID-19 has had an effect on holiday gatherings for families, so take advantage of more intimate family gatherings, and start these conversations with your most immediate family members first. Find a place to record the health history where family members will find it both easy to access and routinely update. Something as simple as a shared Google document, where designated family members can update their history annually or as changes arise, is a good place to start. The U.S. Surgeon General has also created a free web-based tool called My Family Health Portrait, where information can be saved and updated over time.

Collecting your family’s health history is only the first step, then you must act! While you cannot change your existing family health history, you may be able to take steps to change unhealthy behaviors, such as smoking, lack of exercise, and an unhealthy diet that may contribute to the development and progression of diseases for which you may be at a higher risk. Begin sharing the information about your family health history with your doctor during your annual wellness exam or at your next visit, and discuss available screening and prevention to keep you and your family healthy! Dr. Amanda J. Murray was born in Dothan, Alabama and raised in Chipley, Florida. In 2018, she completed a three-year Pediatric Residency program at Levine Children’s Hospital, Charlotte, North Carolina and will join Dothan Pediatric Clinic in September. She is a proud member of the American Medical Association and the American Academy of Pediatrics. Dr. Murray and her husband, Zach, will live in Dothan with their son Jack.

www.wiregrassparents.com

Elizabeth Whitton Hillcrest Elementary, Enterprise

ur d

ed atric

ma-

Whitton says she has always had a deep love for children and decided to pursue a career in elementary education in college. She says her students keep her motivated. “I love seeing their smiling faces every day, them loving me on the good and bad days, and being their safe place or comfort. Every day is what we make it, and we choose to make learning FUN!” Seeing her students’ minds at work and witnessing their “ah-ha” moments is the most rewarding part of the job for Whitton, and she hopes her students leave her classroom knowing they are loved, how to treat one another, and that manners matter. Poss says she’s doing just that. “The first few years of elementary school truly set the stage for how a child will view their time in school,” says Poss, “and Mrs. Whitton makes sure every child who walks into her classroom is loved and valued and experiences the joy of learning!”

November’s Teacher of the Month is described simply as being “the best.” Elizabeth Whitton taught Lauren Poss’s oldest daughter in first grade. Poss says Whitton is outgoing and fun and makes every day special for her students. “She goes out of her way to be involved in her students’ lives outside of the classroom and celebrates their wins and comforts them during tough times.” “When teaching, especially in the younger grades, communication with the parents is vital,” Whitton says. “They want and need to know what’s happening inside my classroom... as they should. To know that a child had such a wonderful year in my classroom, that they would take the time to nominate me, is truly an honor! It makes my heart beam with pride.” After teaching first grade for eight years, Whitton has moved to the kindergarten hall of Hillcrest Elementary School in Enterprise. She says, “Kindergarten is fast paced! They like to keep moving. We dance, sing, act out stories, and move around to keep everyone engaged.”

Elizabeth Whitton received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from The University of Alabama. She and her husband, Matt, have two children: Parker (3) and Mcool (1).

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Dothan Senior Named Semifinalist in Merit Scholarship Program

Join Dothan City Schools in congratulating Dothan High School Senior Michelle McCleod! Michelle was named a Semifinalist in the 67th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Michelle is among 16,000 Semifinalists nationwide who will have the opportunity to compete for some $30 million in scholarships. “This distinction is afforded to the best of the best in high school seniors throughout the country. Reaching this level places Ms. McCleod in the top 99.7% of qualifying seniors in the country,” says Superintendent Dr. Dennis Coe. “As our first Dothan Wolf to earn this distinct honor, our most sincere and enthusiastic congratulations are offered to her in this accomplishment. This is a prime example of the quality student Dothan City Schools has helped to inspire to greatness.” High school juniors entered the 2022 competition by taking the 2020 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/ NMSQT). The nationwide pool of Semifinalists represents less than one percent of high school seniors in the U.S. National Merit Scholarship winners will be announced in the spring of 2022. We are so incredibly proud of Michelle and wish her the best of luck!

Highlands Elementary Makes Its Mark on Dot Day

Highlands Elementary joined schools around the world to celebrate International Dot Day on September 15th. This day was created by Peter Reynolds to inspire creativity. The students designed various types of dots in their art class, led by the art teacher, Tara Harris. Teachers and students participated in the event by wearing polka dots and discussing how they would “make their mark.”

Geneva Sophomore Gifts Veteran 9/11 Commemorative Photo A special THANK YOU to 10th grader Ivey Zheng who wanted to gift this picture of the Twin Towers to a veteran of the War on Terror! It will be put on permanent display in the Geneva Police Department as a reminder to all who enter that we should Never Forget! Another big THANK YOU to art teacher Hannah Ward for passing on patriotism and good ole American values to the next generation!

O c

Ozark Chamber Announces Youth Ambassadors

The Ozark Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce our 2021 – 2022 Youth Ambassadors. The purpose of the CYA (Chamber Youth Ambassadors) program is for our students to experience all that our community offers as a great place to work, live, and return as an adult entering the workforce. We will provide our CYA participants with a knowledge of local government, information about our city and county heritage, and an understanding of proper business tactics. Top Row (Left to Right): Blake Hughes, MaKenna Long, Audra Lowery, Elizabeth Harrell; Middle Row (Left to Right): Lilly Grace Payne, Emmaline Hughes, and Ainsley Watts Bottom Row (Left to Right): Kayla Cohen and Breana Henning; Not Pictured: Callie Edwards

Dothan High JROTC Unveils Competition Rifle Range

It’s a great day for Dothan High School JROTC Program. We held a ribbon cutting to unveil our state of the art competition rifle range. The JROTC cadets now have a firsr-class facility to practice their skills and learn firearm safety. We will now be able to host local, regional, and state events. Thank you to Dr. Coe, the Dothan City Schools Board of Education, the DCS Maintenance and Technology departments, and more more who made this a special event. Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

www.wiregrassparents.com

Mr. & Miss Coppinville Crowned

ber d – rs. YA sour e y e n e de

Dothan 8th Grade Football Players Celebrate Teachers

Congratulations to Kendall Gates, our new Miss Coppinville 2021-2022, and to Ayden Perkins, Mr. Coppinville! Congratulations also to 1st Runner-Up, Leanna Carr, 2nd Runner-Up, Reagan Minks, 3rd Runner-Up, Aubree Warren Ankrom, Miss Photogenic, Kendall Gates, Miss Eagle, Albrianna Jones, and Miss Congeniality, Hannah Sheffield! Congratulations also to A.J. Rendon, Mr. Coppinville 1st Runner-Up! The new Miss Coppinville was crowned by Hana Hutchison, Miss Coppinville 2020-2021!

Our 8th Grade Football Players chose three teachers to celebrate. These teachers were chosen because of their ability to motivate, inspire and educate children. Mr. Maddox - 8th Grade ELA Mrs. Batts - 8th Grade Science Mrs. Lucas - Visual Arts

Former Lakeside Teacher Inducted into AISA Hall of Fame

The Lakeside School is proud to announce the induction of Mrs. Eleanor McCain Brown to the Alabama Independent School Association Hall of Fame. The AISA Hall of Fame is an elite group of successful, devoted leaders from within the Association. Mrs. Brown was inducted on Sunday, October 3, 2021, at the Wynlakes Golf and Country Club in Montgomery, Alabama.

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

cal on nty r-

t): s n-

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

D Slingluff Book Character Pumpkin Contest Winners

Congratulations to the winners of our Book Character Pumpkin Decorating Contest! Winners received a goodie bag filled with books and treats as well as gift certificates to the upcoming Book Fair. Thank you to all who participated! K-2 Winner: Skylin F. 3-6 Winner: Arjanae C. Family Winner: Aiden T. Art Teacher’s Award: Serenity S. People’s Choice: Paisley G.

Heard Kindergarteners’ Have Heads in the Clouds

Kindergarten #CrewMembers have been reading “Have Fun Molly Lou Melon”. In the book the grandmother told Molly Lou that she didn’t have television so she would watch the clouds and use her imagination to spot things in the clouds. To connect the curriculum, students went outside, laid down and watched for what we could see in the clouds!

Lakeside School SGA Honors Fallen Classmate

Our SGA represented Fuller Goldsmith and the Alabama Independent School Association’s Student Government Association by wearing yellow. Fuller passed away after a long battle with cancer. The AISA SGA says, “Fuller was a friend and inspiration to many and his strength will always be remembered.” The group’s Smile-A-Mile state project is in honor of him and, in light of his death, they will be adding an extra week of fundraising.

Th co

Northside Methodist Raises Money for Smile-A-Mile

The NMA SGA partnered with our AISA association and Smile-a-Mile and raised $826.75 and had a blast! Smile-A-Mile’s mission is “to provide hope, healing of the spirit and love for the whole family during the childhood cancer journey. Through year-round meaningful and educational programming, Smile-A-Mile helps those in Alabama who are affected by childhood cancer thrive during treatment and the years beyond.”

Dothan High Girls Flag Football Team Wins First Game

Our Girls Flag Football Team played their inaugural game October 12th in Eufala! They played exceptionally well and even won 25-12! Congratulations to the Wolves Flag Football Team and to Coach Haley and Coach Allen!! These awesome ladies trained/coached their team to show up and show out! Way to go, Wolves! A HUGE shout out to all the fans (parents, family members and staff) that came out to show support for our team! You all ROCK!

Girard Second Grader Wins Fire Prevention Poster Contest

Congratulations to our sweet second grader, Casen Andrews, whose poster was chosen as a school winner from GPS in the Fire Prevention Poster contest! We are so proud of you!

Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

St F me Do Ch

www.wiregrassparents.com

all

Dothan City Schools Announces Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council

Dothan City Schools (DCS) recently announced their 2021-2022 Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council (SSAC). The SSAC was formed to give Dothan City Schools Superintendent and Board of Education the important ideas, viewpoints, and input from DCS students. The council application was open to any DCS student who was in good standing in Grades 5 and above. The SSAC is made up of 16 delegates from the following schools. Highlands Elementary School - Anna Lee S.; Heard Elementary School - Gabriella S.; Selma Street Elementary School - Brody A.; Morris Slingluff Elementary School - Gabrielle S.; Jerry Lee Faine Elementary School - Lyriq C.; Kelly Springs Elementary School - Kayla G.; Beverlye Intermediate School - Haleigh C.; Girard Intermediate School - Zaniya D.; Carver School - Christan M.; Dothan City Virtual School - Ja’Kaylynn F.; Carver 9th Grade Academy - Brooklyn G., SSAC ViceChairperson, Addison H.; Dothan High School - Julianna S., SSAC Chairperson, K’era J.; Dothan Preparatory Academy - Braylon J., Mabelin S. The SSAC recently held their first advisory meeting with Dr. Dennis Coe to discuss highlights and concerns regarding Dothan City Schools from their perspective as students. The SSAC will formally present to the Board of Education at the October Board of Education meeting. The SSAC will continue to meet quarterly to ensure the DCS Superintendent and Board of Education are kept up to date on the thoughts and concerns of the students. To learn more about the Superintendent Student Advisory Council, go to dothan.k12.al.us/ssac.

Highlands Elementary Pinwheels for Peace

Highlands Elementary participated with schools around the country on September 21st in Pinwheels for Peace. This is an international day of peace. Students made pinwheels and placed them in front of the school as the symbol for “whirled” peace. A writing competition was held in 6th grade. The following students were the winners. They presented their speeches at a Peace Assembly on September 17th. The music teacher, Mrs. Hoekenga led peace songs at the assembly that the K-6 grade students had practiced.

Our Spa Membership is the Best for complete care!

MedSpa

6 & 12 Month Memberships Available Includes One Monthly Service from below: • IV Hydration • Xeomin • Forma Mini Laser • Evolve Trim • Evolve Tite • Evolve Tone • Laser Hair Removal Plus: 20% Discount on all Retail Skin Care Products 15% Discount on all Medspa Laser/Lipo therapies. For More Info Call Christy (334) 763-1114

DaySpa

Members of ACOG Please visit ACOG,org for patient info.

6 & 12 Month Memberships Available Call for your Includes One Monthly Service from below: FREE • Customized Facial • Back Facial • Acne med spa consult Chemical Peel • Anti-aging Chemical Peel • Lash Lift • Microdermabrasion 334-671-9445 Half Price Add-On Service: DOTHAN 104 Medical Drive, • Dermaplane • Paraﬃn Treatment Dothan, AL 36303 • Hand Treatment • LED Therapy • Lash Tint

877-671-9445 ENTERPRISE 614 N. Main St. Suite B & C Enterprise, AL 36330

Plus: 20% Discount on all Retail Skin Care Products For More Info Call Taegan (334) 713-1744

www.ladiesfirstwiregrass.com

Free admission! Visitors are invited to bring nonperishable food items for the Wiregrass United Way Food Bank.

Join us for LANDMARK PARK’S

December 12, 2021 1 p.m.- 4 p.m. Hwy. 431 N. Dothan, Alabama Landmark Park

• A Dessert Sampler • Wagon Rides • A Christmas Service • Hot Chocolate and Cider

334-794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Providence JV Cheerleaders Raise Funds for Childhood Cancer

On Friday, September 24, the JV Cheer squad filled “Buckets of Smiles” for several children enduring cancer treatments. We are proud of these girls for serving on and off the field.

Hillcrest Beta Club Makes Goodie Baskets for Medical Center Enterprise

Thanks so much Hillcrest Elementary Beta Club for the amazing goodie baskets for our staff! We appreciate it very much!

Highlands Elementary Launches Peer Helpers

Congratulations to our Peer Helpers! DCS and Highlands are excited to announce that we are starting a new group on our campus called Peer Helpers. These students will attend an all-day training on how to show kindness and help others. They will also participate in various campaigns throughout the year. The students had to to through an application process to be chosen as a part of this program.

Highlands Elementary SGA Revealed

Highlands Elementary School would like to welcome their new 20212022 SGA representatives and officers!

Emmanuel Christian 3rd Graders “Save Sam”

Please email news and photos to: schoolnews@wiregrassparents.com! Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

Mrs. Rodgers’s 3rd grade students worked on a group activity to “save Sam.” Sam (the gummy worm) went out on his boat (the plastic cup) without permission. A storm came, and his boat capsized causing Sam to be stuck underneath without his life preserver (the gummy ring). The mission was to help Sam get on top of his boat with his life preserver on. The catch - the students could only use one paper clip each to do this. No fingers. They did a great job working together to come up with strategies to save Sam! 14

www.wiregrassparents.com

T sc for h

Geneva Co. Senior Semifinalist in Merit Scholarship Program

Join Geneva County Schools in congratulating Samson High School Senior Davis McKenzie for being named a Semifinalist in the 67th Annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Davis is among 16,000 Semifinalists nationwide who will have the opportunity to compete for some $30 million in scholarships. “This distinction is afforded to the best of the best in high school seniors throughout the country. Reaching this level places Mr. McKenzie in the top 99.7% of qualifying seniors in the country,” says Superintendent Becky Birdsong. As our first student in Geneva County to earn this distinct honor, our most sincere congratulations are offered to him for this accomplishment.” High school juniors entered the 2022 competition by taking the 2020 Preliminary SAT/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test (PSAT/NMSQT). The nationwide pool of Semifinalists represents less than one percent of high school seniors in the U.S. National Merit Scholarship winners will be announced in the spring of 2022. We are so incredibly proud of Davis and wish him the best of luck!

Providence Christian School Collects Food for Food Bank

Thank you, Providence families, for bringing in cans for our annual can food drive. Our school collected 8,547 cans for the Wiregrass Area Food Bank. We exceeded our goal for this year and topped the last food drive by more than 1,000 cans. Your generosity will help make an impact on our community. Thank you to our Student Leadership Council for organizing and managing the drive.

nts ve ) c m ush

o he ey m!

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

FamilyEyeHealth

Sponsored by Vision Center South

Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month While most people are aware of what diabetes is, they may not realize that it impacts more than 34 million Americans every year, and how it can cause people to lose their vision. At Vision Center South, we want to make sure you understand the importance of regular diabetic eye care. November is Diabetic Eye Disease Awareness Month, so there is no better time to have this discussion. When a person’s blood sugar levels are abnormally high, it can change the fluid levels in your eyes, causing temporary blurred vision. This blurriness can clear when blood sugar levels return to normal, but over time, more serious damage can occur. That damage is likely if a person’s blood sugar levels rise to high levels consistently. This can cause blood vessels in your eye to become damaged, leading to bleeding, swelling, scarring, and permanently high eye pressure. It can cause eye conditions including:

Diabetic Retinopathy: With this condition, the retina is damaged, which can decrease the retina’s ability to see. If untreated, this can lead to vision loss or even total blindness. Diabetic Macular Edema: Retinal swelling can affect the retina’s central macular area. This can decrease the clarity of your vision and can also lead to loss of reading and driving vision. Glaucoma and Cataracts: Chances are, you are familiar with the two most common types of eye disease, both of which do not have to be tied to diabetes. But diabetes can exacerbate the pressure in your eyes, which can double the chances of suffering from glaucoma. A cataract is when the natural lens in your eye becomes cloudy. This is a common issue as we age, whether or not diabetes is present. While cataracts can be treated with surgery, diabetes can cause cataracts to form earlier in life.

Fortunately, those with diabetes can improve their chances of avoiding any of the severe eye conditions listed above by making an annual eye appointment. If a potential issue is found, there is a variety of treatments that can be utilized, from laser treatments to common outpatient surgical procedures. Often, diabetic eye disease can reach an advanced and dangerous stage without any obvious visual warning signs, so getting an eye checkup is critical. Dr. Kirk Jones is a native of Auburn, Alabama and earned his undergraduate degree from Auburn University in chemistry in 2005 and his Doctorate of Optometry from Nova Southeastern University in Fort Lauderdale, Florida in 2010. Dr. Jones is a member of American Optometric Association and the Alabama Optometric Association. In his free time he enjoys spending time with his wife, Brittan, his son Henry and daughter Charlotte, and being with friends and family.

Visit the Location Nearest You to Shop the

SPEC-TACULAR NOW THROUGH DECEMBER 31 See Store for Details

VisionCenterSouth.net

1-888-660-2738 Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

www.wiregrassparents.com

g ue

d up

er-

an . In n

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Ha sp sa tio co ex mo

So ch pe the

of se for he Sh dre pu

he op ca Bu wa co

While sports can provide a multitude of emotional and physical benefits for kids, specializing in a single sport at too early of an age can pose risks. How do you know when—or if— your child should specialize in a sport they love? Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

www.wiregrassparents.com

Prevent injury. “We see

What is sports specialization? Brian

Harvey, O.D., a pediatric sports medicine physician, says that sports specialization is defined as playing and competing in one single sport exclusively for more than eight months out of the year.

Advantages of multi-sport athletes.

Some parents worry that their children won’t have a competitive advantage later on if they don’t specialize early. Karen Hughey, co-founder and CEO of Team Cura, works with scholarshipseeking athletes and their parents. As a former sports parent, Hughey says both her children played a variety of sports. She and her husband left it up to their children to decide which ones they wanted to pursue as they got older. Although he was a talented golfer, her son Rob, co-founder of Team Cura, opted to quit golf early in his high school career to participate in other activities. But, by his junior year, he decided that he wanted to return to golf and play at the college level.

that kids, who have had experiences playing a multitude of sports, have fewer difficulties learning new skills and, generally, don’t suffer from the overuse injuries and burnout that are common with youth athletes specializing in one sport,” says physical therapist Tim

“He had to work harder to reach out to college coaches at that point, but he still was fine,” Hughey says. “He found a great school and a great fit for himself. So, leave it up to your kids. They’ll find their way and figure it out.” From discussions with many high school and college coaches, Hughey has found that they tend to prefer recruiting multi-sport athletes. “I think football is probably the best example of not specializing,” Harvey says. “Ninety percent of the first-round draft picks are multi-sports athletes. They’re running track, playing basketball, wrestling. It doesn’t hinder their ability to play professionally or get those college scholarships.”

Cummings, PT, DPT. An overuse injury occurs as a result of repetitive motion and impact on one area of the body. “Overuse injuries are those injuries that cause an athlete to lose more than a month of their sport,” Harvey says. “Those are the biggest ones that we see in the developing athletes who do sports specialization.” Cummings says the most common overuse injuries he sees in younger patients include ankle sprains, knee pain, Little Leaguer’s Elbow, ACL tears and Osgood-Schlatter. “Osgood-Schlatter is a traction injury on a special type of growth plate called an

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

apophysis, which is at the top of the shin bone,” Cummings explains. “The traction comes from strong and relatively tight muscles that develop during puberty and high activity levels. Pain and sometimes swelling can be felt directly over a bump at the bottom of the knee.”

Avoid burnout. Participating in

different sports throughout the year is easier on developing bodies and kids are less likely to get bored or even anxious or depressed. “Athletes wanting to perform at their best, but not being able to, whether it’s due to injury or their fear of disappointing a coach or a parent or even themselves, plus that chronic daily physical demand, can lead to higher rates of burnout and quitting their sport,” Harvey says. To allow the body time to rest and recover, kids shouldn’t train for more than eight months out of the year. “And really try not to practice, train or compete more than their age in years per week,” Harvey says. (For example, no more than 12 hours per week for a 12-year-old.) Striking a healthy balance between sports and other interests is also beneficial.

Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

“Some of the high school athletes we work with have stressed the importance of needing down time and being able to spend time with friends,” Hughey says.

Encourage free play. Whether

they toss a football around with friends, shoot hoops in the driveway, play tag, or make up competitive games, kids develop motor skills, creativity and social/emotional skills through unstructured play. “When we start to look at young athletes, the body really needs time to develop, to learn how to run, learn how to jump—really learn how to use their bodies and play,” Harvey says. “Instead of focusing on one exact sport, try a little bit of different types of sports. Learn how to be athletic first and foremost, and then really have fun with those sports.”

When to specialize. “This isn’t

a black and white, good or bad issue. Sports like figure skating, gymnastics, rhythmic gymnastics and diving require early specialization due to the high demand to acquire specific sports skills early on,” Cummings says. “Peak performance in these sports most often happens before reaching full physical maturity.”

But, he emphasizes that early specialization combined with decreased recovery time does put an athlete at increased risk for overuse injuries no matter the sport chosen. Harvey recommends parents gauge specialization readiness according to a child’s physical and mental maturity. Although he’d prefer kids waited until they were at least 12 (ideally 14 or 15), “there’s probably not a specific age that I would say is perfect,” he says. He says a child who is physically and mentally ready to specialize: • Is goal-oriented • Understands that the sport should be fun • Comprehends complex rules of the game • Recognizes the demand that a sport can put on the mind and the body • Can cope with those demands in a healthy way Above all, “you’ve got to listen to your children,” Hughey says. “Countless coaches have told us that you will know when the time is right. If you’re pushing it, it’s not the right time.” WP

Christa Melnyk Hines is a nationally published freelance writer. She and her husband are the parents of two active sons.

www.wiregrassparents.com

y for n. e

ey ’s

un me

Living Well Do You Practice Box Breathing? According to the Mayo Clinic, there’s sufficient evidence that intentional deep breathing can actually calm and regulate the autonomic nervous system (ANS). The slow holding of breath allows carbon dioxide (CO2) to build up in the blood. An increased blood CO2 enhances the cardio-inhibitory response of the vagus nerve when you exhale and stimulates your parasympathetic system. This produces a calm and relaxed feeling in the mind and body. Box breathing can reduce stress and improve your mood. It can also help treat insomnia by allowing you to calm your nervous system at night before bed. Box breathing can even be efficient at helping with pain management.

Box breathing is a great way to tap into the relaxation response. The more you practice, the easier it will come to you in times of need. 1. Sitting with feet on the floor, inhale slowly and deeply through your nose to the count of four. In this step, count to four very slowly in your head. Feel the air fill your lungs, one section at a time, until your lungs are completely full and the air moves into your abdomen. 2. Hold your breath for another slow count of four. 3. Exhale through your mouth for the same slow count of four, expelling the air from your lungs and abdomen. 4. Hold your breath for the same slow count of four.

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

Juggling all your fall festivities can be exhausting. So many fun things to do that taking care of yourself just doesn’t seem fun. How can you put more fun into being healthy? What’s fun about being healthy? Having more energy, better skin, fitting into your favorite clothes… THOSE sound fun! I teach clients how to name their state of ambivalence, own and move through it. I promise you are a lot more resilient than you give yourself credit for. It’s fun to be able to do the things you want to do!

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Screen Time: A Quick “Win” To Help Parents Feel More in Control Do you feel like you can never stay on top of what your children are doing on their devices? Do you feel overwhelmed when you think about monitoring their ongoing social media activity, not to mention the 400 apps they use. Okay, let’s be honest, if your kids are older than nine, they are probably only REALLY interested in two apps… Snapchat and TikTok. In any case, I like to give parents what I call an “easy win” when it comes to monitoring their kids. We need something that helps us feel like we are providing some safety. We know we want them to be viewing age appropriate material and we do not want them to be on their devices ALL THE TIME. Have you ever heard yourself saying to your kid, “Get off the phone. Get off the phone. GET OFF OF THAT PHONE!” This is where we can have that “easy win”. First, though, let’s chat a minute about device use. The rise in anxiety, depression and suicide has been linked directly to constant unrestricted device time. Suicide is now the second leading cause of death among those in their late teens and early twenties. As parents, we want to protect our children, while also allowing them access to media so they don’t feel left behind. Where is the balance? And what can we do? Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

To start, children and teens should never have a device, any device, that is not monitored for both age related time AND content. The phone settings should be set so that at least the time allowed on the phone, and the information viewed online, coincides with the child’s or teen’s age. How do we do this? Set screen time on your child’s device. It is free and easy to do, as well as easy to monitor. Here are the steps you can follow to set screen time. In Settings on your child’s phone, scroll down to Screen Time. Click on it. Here you will find everything you need. First, you will want to scroll down and click on Screen Time Passcode. Set the passcode. Make sure it is one you can remember and your child will not figure out. This prevents them from making any changes to what you set on the phone. Next, go back to Screen Time and click on Down Time. Here you decide how much time your child gets to spend on his/her device. You can customize it by days, and drill down to hours. It is beautiful! When their allowed time is finished, an hourglass will pop up, and they will not have access to the phone until you have it set to “wake up” next. You can even put time limits on certain apps or completely restrict certain apps from the phone, as well as certain websites. 22

Next, go to Content and Privacy Restrictions. This allows you to set age appropriate restrictions for content. NOTE: This only monitors content online. It will not monitor the content coming through specific apps. You also want to go to the “Allow Changes” section under Content Restrictions. Click “Do Not Allow” on each one. This prevents your child from uploading or downloading any apps without permission. A quick secret… you will not hurt or break the phone, so spend time scrolling through Screen Time and looking at all it has to offer! The main thing to note is to always remember the passcode because it will lock you out if you forget. In addition to providing these protections, start having open conversations with your child. Start doing random device checks. Give yourself some support by putting in place monitoring systems that will make your job easier. Do not forget to rely on your support systems outside of tech as well... your friends, counselor, school, resource officers. It truly takes a village. If you find yourself needing extra support, I am here. Please do not hesitate to reach out!

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate. She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.

www.wiregrassparents.com

t fic

e ut-

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

wo sio Pla oth ha Th ow ex

sio by Co are wh tre the int tha be ch inc

kin to we es ins

Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

www.wiregrassparents.com

Want to really make your kids happy? Teach them the importance of giving to others. Contrary to common belief that kids need and want more “stuff” to be happy, science tells us that it is the act of giving to others that actually boosts happiness and can even improve health and other areas of their lives. Believe it or not, children enter this world with a natural instinct to be compassionate to others. Scientists at the Max Planck Institute discovered that infants help others even though they are too young to have learned about being kind and polite. The children take action because of their own motivation, and not because they expect a reward. Do children continue to show compassion as they grow? A breakthrough study by psychologists at the University of British Columbia determined that young children are happier to give than to receive. Toddlers who were asked to give away their own treats expressed greater happiness when they shared with others. The researchers interpreted the results of this study to mean that anytime people participate in pro-social behavior, such as volunteering and giving charitable donations, we experience an increase in happiness. Children have the foundation to be kind, but it’s our job as parents to continue to nurture this part of them as they grow. If we neglect to do so, negative life experiences can unfortunately tear down this beautiful instinct.

How Giving Transforms Our Kids Numerous studies have uncovered several ways that giving enhances our children’s lives.

Boosts Happiness: When we make others

happy by giving a gift or our support, we experience a physiological change called a helper’s high. It is a euphoric physical sensation resulting from our brain releasing chemicals called endorphins. According to Psychology Today, the helper’s high is a literal “high,” similar to a drug-induced sensation. It makes us feel good naturally, giving us a rush that leaves us elated and excited. This positive energy is similar to how we feel after exercising.

crease health benefits in people with chronic illness. In addition, a 1999 study led by Doug Oman of the University of California, Berkeley suggests that giving may improve physical health because it helps reduce stress. Finally, a 2006 joint study by Johns Hopkins University and the University of Tennessee indicated that people who helped others had lower blood pressure.

Promotes Social Connection: Several

studies suggest that when we give, our generosity is ultimately rewarded by others. These positive actions promote a sense of trust and cooperation that strengthens our relationships. Moreover, we feel a bond towards those we help. All of this is important because having positive social interactions is central to good mental and physical health.

Encourages an Attitude of Gratitude:

When we give to those in need, we feel a sense of gratitude because it puts things in perspective. Volunteer work is a great opportunity for our children to appreciate what they have and gives them a glimpse of the broader world. Meanwhile, gratitude is another very important ingredient for happiness and good health.

Gives Children the Opportunity to Inspire Others: Those who are on the

giving leads to better health. In his book Why Good Things Happen to Good People, Stephen Post, a professor of preventative medicine at Stony Brook University, explains that giving to others has been shown to in-

receiving end of a good deed typically want to pass along that positive feeling and help others. Researcher James Fowlerat the University of California, San Diego found that just one act of kindness can inspire several more acts of kindness by others. In this case, children have the opportunity to be a mentor to others, inspiring a chain of kindness and compassion.

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Improves Health: Research shows that

Best Ways To Teach Children About Giving There are endless opportunities to volunteer as a family and to give our children meaningful experiences that will enhance both their lives and the individuals they help. Here are some tips on how to incorporate giving into your children’s lives.

Discuss how they can help. Find a few

minutes during your day to ask your children who they would like to help. Provide some options like babies, animals, people without homes, children who do not have families, students who need books, or the elderly. Talk about the different types of projects you can do to help those in need. For some inspiration, read books about giving and kindness to your children.

Talk about the importance of charitable giving. If you choose to start

a monetary collection for charity, consider creating or buying giving boxes for each child. Ask them to set goals about how much they would like to give throughout the year and which organizations they would like to donate to. Check in weekly or monthly throughout the year to see how close they are to reaching their goal.

Help your children discover their passion. Our passion should drive how we

give because when we are excited about a project, we can put all of our heart and soul into it. Also, when we care about what we are working on, we will get more out of it and feel happier. Help your children identify their talents, skills, and interests that they can put to good use.

Find ways to volunteer as a family. By volunteering as a family, you make giving a priority and build it into your children’s daily routine. You can find volunteer opportunities for your family by checking your local government website; searching for local charities in your area; asking friends and neighbors; or visiting sites like Idealist, VolunteerMatch, and JustServe. There is certainly no shortage of ways to help others. The next time you feel like your child’s playroom or bedroom closet is going to explode, ask them to fill a bag with items to give to kids who could really use them. By providing our children with opportunities to give, they will be happier and healthier and have the power to pass along that goodness to so many people. WP

Sandi Schwartz is a freelance writer and frequent contributor.

Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

www.wiregrassparents.com

De 430 Cre nat Vic to t Re brin

(33

No @A 295 Joi Co any Orn to g and

(33 arw

No @A 295 Sta Ch you tom sta

(33 arw

De Ho 535 Thi ers wit Tik 13-

(33

lp.

hly

we a ul

nd eir ut

By a y

d g

Arts & Crafts Decorating Workshop ad on page 13

December 5 1:00-4:00 p.m. @ Landmark Park 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL 36303 Create wreaths, garlands and swags out of natural materials and decorate Landmark Park for Victorian Christmas, plus make some decorations to take home! Refreshments will be provided. Registration is required. Guests are encouraged to bring gloves and wire pliers. (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Holiday Ornament Workshop ad on page 26

November 27, December 4, 11, 18, 24 9:30-11a.m. @ AR Workshop 2958 Ross Clark Cir. Dothan, AL 36301 Join us for a festive and family-friendly Cocoa, Cookies & Crafts DIY workshop session to make any of our (totally kid-friendly) Holiday Wood Slice Ornaments for just $5 each! Registration required to guarantee spot. Choose your ornament designs and paint colors at the workshop! (334) 731-3003 dothan@arworkshop.com arworkshop.com/dothan

Wood Nativity Block Workshop ad on page 26

November 13 & December 1 10:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. @ AR Workshop 2958 Ross Clark Cir. Dothan, AL 36301 Start now & make your beautiful, one of a kind, Christmas Decor ! This is a perfect addition to your home or make it for a special friend ! Customize your project with your choice of (non-toxic!) stain and designer paint colors.

Dive Into Diversity- Kwanzaa Celebration

December 3 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. @ Dothan-Houston Co. Library System 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL 36303 Explore Kwanzaa through a book on the traditional holiday. Small crafts are available for pickup from all DHCLS locations. Supplies are limited! Video will go live at 10:30 a.m. on Facebook. (334) 793-9767 knorth@dhcls.org www.dhcls.org

Cookies and Canvas

November 13: Fall Pumpkin December 11: Ho, Ho, Noooo 1:00 p.m. @ All About Art 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Designed to be a family experience, however, kids 10 and up can be signed up independently. Refreshments served. Sign up in store, online, or by phone. Cost: $20 Per 11x14 Canvas or $30 Per 16x20 Canvas. (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com

Christmas Platter Workshop

November 18 6:00 p.m. @ All About Art 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Choose your platter. $35 per person. Sign up online. (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com

First Saturday Family Day: Origami Ornaments

December 4 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. @ Wiregrass Museum of Art 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL 36303 Free art packets for the first 100 guests. Each packet will contain detailed instructions and all supplies needed, and will be handed out on a firstcome, first-served basis until they are gone.

Hot Cocoa Bomb kits

December 15 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. @ Dothan-Houston Co. Library System 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL 36303 Learn how to make hot cocoa bombs with our DIY kits. These kits provide everything you will need to start making the perfect cup of ooey-gooey hot chocolatey goodness as they melt away in warm milk. Ages 7-18. One per person. Available at all DHCLS locations while supplies last. (334) 793-9767 knorth@dhcls.org www.dhcls.org

Lighted Ceramic Christmas Tree Extravaganza

November 11 & 27, December 2 @ All About Art 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Reserve your Ceramic Tree for Christmas. This will be a guided class painting these keepsakes that can be passed down for generations. Price based on project. All Trees include Light Kits and Bulbs! (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com

Pine Cone Christmas Tree Kits

December 3 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. @ Dothan-Houston Co. Library System 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL 36303 Stop by any DHCLS location and pick up a Pine Cone Christmas Tree kit. Each kit will include everything needed to paint and decorate your own tree. Kits are available for kids ages 3-12, while supplies last. One per person, please. (334) 793-9767 knorth@dhcls.org www.dhcls.org

Snow Globe Kits

December 16 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. @ Dothan-Houston Co. Library System 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL 36303 Stop by any DHCLS location and pick up a Snow Globe kit. Create your own art and turn it into a snowglobe. Kits are available for kids ages 3-12, while supplies last. One per person, please.

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

(334) 794.3871 info@wiregrassmuseum.org www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Crafty Teen - Crochet Mug Sweaters

Holiday Handprint Palooza!

Toddler Tales

(334) 793-9767 knorth@dhcls.org www.dhcls.org

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

December 9 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. @ DothanHouston Co. Library System - Westgate Branch 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL 36303 This month’s project will be Crochet Mug Sweaters and will include everything needed. The video with instructions will be posted on the library’s TikTok @DHCLS_Youth. This project is for Ages 13-18, available while supplies last.

November 6 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. @ All About Art 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Pick your surface. Choose your design. We will get the hand/foot prints during your session. Project will be ready within 3 weeks. Space is booked first come first serve and will be limited. Reservations required. $5 Deposit.

(334) 793-9767 knorth@dhcls.org www.dhcls.org

November 13: Run Turkey Run December 11: Mr. Willoughby’s Christmas Tree 10:00 a.m. @ All About Art 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Designed to be a family experience with story time and a related art project for toddlers and their caregivers. Light toddler friendly refreshments will be provided. $20 per child.

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

Wine Down with Art

November 20 - Joy November 27 - Merry Christmas Lights December 11 - Ornaments December 18 - Manger 6:30 p.m. @ All About Art 102 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 We provide step-by-step instruction of a 16X20 Canvas Painting. This is an adult event designed for ages 16 and up. You are welcome to bring your own refreshments. $35 per person. (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com

Benefits & Fundraisers BBS Fitness 4th Annual Toy Drive “Push-Pull Challenge”

December 11 8:00 a.m. @ BBS Fitness Systems 709 Boll Weevil Cir. Enterprise, AL 36330 Join us for our 4th annual event to benefit the regional Boys & Girls Club, by raising money & toy donations to provide Christmas gifts for children who may not have any otherwise. (334) 797-5360 bbscox2003@yahoo.com

Country Christmas Car Show

December 4 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. @ Eastgate Park 1949 Sanitary Dairy Rd. Dothan, AL 36303 Country Christmas Car Show to benefit the Toys for Tots. Come out and showcase your car or truck. An unwrapped toy ($25.00) is your only entry fee to help out a great cause at Christmas. (334) 615-3700 leisureservices@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

Girls Inc. Mother Daughter Tea

December 5 1:00-2:30 or 3:30-5:00 p.m. @ Windmill Station 1369 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL 36303 Guests will enjoy tea style hors d’oeuvre’s, Christmas Ornament making, visiting with Santa and Mrs. Claus, cookie decorating, treat bags, and a photo booth. Tickets (before 12/1): $60/couple, Additional Adult $35, Additional Daughter $25. (334) 793-2321 girlsincdothan@gmail.com girlsincdothan.org

Jerusalem Project

@ Fostering Hope 17965 Hwy. 431 Headland, AL 36345 Sponsor foster children for their Christmas gifts. Businesses, individuals, church groups, etc are encouraged to help sponsor children and buy Christmas gifts for them this year. Also collecting Christmas cards for foster families. (334) 699-1563 fosteringhope334@gmail.com www.fosteringhopewiregrass.com

Living Hope Blanket & Jacket Drive

November 1-6 @ Eagle Eye Outfitters 3535 Ross Clark Cir. Dothan, AL 36303 Living Hope Ministries Inc, a 501c3 Non-Profit, is in need of gently used women’s coats, men’s coats, and blankets to be distributed to Wiregrass Area homeless individuals.

Miracle on Foster Street Food Drive

December 9 6:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. 285 N. Foster St. Dothan, AL 36303 Join the Wiregrass Area Food Bank as we collect food and funds to help feed the hungry for the holidays...and hopefully beyond!

Operation Christmas Child

November 15-22 @ Heritage Baptist Church (Central Drop Off) 1951 Westgate Pkwy Dothan, AL 36303 Donate shoeboxes filled with Gifts for children in need. Shoeboxes may be dropped off at the Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

Central Drop off Location or one of 12 others in the Wiregrass Area. This year’s goal is 14,225 boxes. Visit the website for information on what to pack in a box. loweralabamateam@gmail.com www.samaritanspurse.org

Salvation Army Angel Tree

@ Wiregrass Commons Mall 900 Commons Dr., Suite 604 Dothan, AL 36303 Help provide Christmas for low-income children. Typical needs and wants range from clothes to a bicycle. Angels are available for adoption at Wiregrass Commons Mall. The tree is near the food court. (334) 792-1911 deanne.jones@uss.salvationarmy.org salvationarmyalm.org/dothan/

Santa for Seniors

2755 Choctaw St. Dothan, AL 36301 Help bring Christmas joy to Wiregrass seniors. Common requests include groceries, household repairs, and basic necessities. Gift lists published November 5. Gifts will be collected from 9:00 a.m.6:00 p.m. December 5, 10, and 11. (334) 793-6843 terri.francis@sarcoa.org sarcoa.org/santa-for-seniors-2021/

The Red Nose Run Half Marathon and 5K

December 11 8:00 a.m. @ Flowers Hospital 4370 W. Main St. Dothan, AL 36303 The race raises funds for grants distributed by Southeast Alabama Community Foundation to local nonprofits in the Wiregrass region in several areas of need including education, social services, health, youth development, the arts and community development. (334) 264-6223 burton.ward@cacfinfo.org rednoserun.itsyourrace.com

Toys for Tots

Collecting new, unwrapped toys. Visit website for drop-off locations. (334) 316-6839 dothan.al@toysfortots.org thewiregrass.toysfortots.org

Turkeys from Heaven

December 22-23 @ National Peanut Festival Fairgrounds 5622 US-231 S Dothan, AL 36301 Meet at the NPF Paviion Dec. 22 to grill the turkeys. Meals will be distributed for delivery at the Wiregrass Museum of Art Dec. 23. Turkeys may be purchased at any Dothan Winn Dixie.

Church Events Old Time Christmas

January 6 @ Clay Hill Church Brundidge, AL 36010 Step back in time to celebrate Old Christmas. The church is beautifully decorated with the seasonal offerings of Mother Nature. Following the Old Christmas service, homemade teacakes and hot apple cider may be enjoyed along with the fellowship of friends and neighbors. (334) 685-5524 piddle.org

Voices of Mobile

November 28 5:00 p.m. @ Ridgecrest Baptist Church 1231 Fortner St. Dothan, AL 36301 Join us for an evening of Christmas music as we kick off the Christmas season!

Wiregrass Community “Messiah” Sing-A-Long

December 5 4:30 p.m. @ First Baptist Church of Enterprise 302 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 The Wiregrass Community, Messiah Sing-along is created with a desire to provide Coffee County and the Wiregrass Area with a sing-along rendition of Handel’s Messiah. The Sing-along is founded on principles of openness and community - everyone is welcome as the community gathers together in the performance of this celebrated work.

Dance, Music & Theater Elf the Musical ad on page 3 and 23

December 14-19 7:00 p.m. nightly @ Dothan Opera House 115 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 Based on the beloved holiday film, this hilarious fish-out-of-water comedy follows Buddy the Elf in his quest to find his true identity. Embrace your inner elf and join Buddy as he crosses over from the confectionately sweet life of Santa’s elves to the harsh reality of finding his birth father in New York City. This oversized elf is determined to move Dad from the naughty to nice list, and remind his new family of the true meaning of Christmas. The best way to spread Christmas cheer is singing loud for all to hear! seact@seact.com www.seact.com

(334) 797-9376 mrmarsella@gmail.com

Turkey Thanksgiving Meal Drive

@ Fostering Hope 17965 Hwy. 431 Headland, AL 36345 Provide a Thanksgiving meal to a local foster family or the Alabama Baptist Children’s Home for only $40. Meals include turkey, sides, and pie. Donations can be made via PayPal or mail, or dropped off during office hours. (334) 699-1563 fosteringhope334@gmail.com www.fosteringhopewiregrass.com

Wiregrass Children’s Home Festival of Trees

November 18 6:00 p.m. @ Dothan Civic Center 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 A Gala Auction benefit for the Wiregrass Children’s Home featuring; professionally decorated Christmas trees, centerpieces, wreaths, gift items, furniture, trips, and more! (334) 692-5100 ashley@wiregrasschildrenshome.org wiregrasschildrenshome@gmail.com www.wiregrasschildrenshome.org

Santa’s Workshop ad on Inside Back Cover

December 2-4 @ Dothan Civic Center 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 Packed with high-energy dance numbers, fantastic music, and hilarious characters, Santa’s Workshop is back and better than ever and this year there is a new elf in town with new ideas to impress the big man in charge at the North Pole! (877) 775-5678 info@aldanceworks.com aldanceworks.com

De Sa @C 166 Thi cla Eb of S isn Scr

(22

De @W N. Fea wit tori fidd the

(33 pid

De @ 104 Gli his of n exc

(33 ww

Ch Jo

De 115 Ce

Ev Th

De Su 680 Thr told wo pop

(85 ww

Th A

De 210 Bir The tran the

(20 ww

De 126 Ma Ch fav De

SEADAC’s The Nutcracker

December 9-12 @ Dothan Civic Center 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 Experience some of the most glorious dancing on earth in our annual production of this timeless holiday classic.

De 126 It w pop Po and

ad on page 3 and 23

seadac@graceba.net www.southeastalabamadancecompany.org

www.wiregrassparents.com

A Southern Christmas Carol

he al

t w-

December 3, 4, 5, 10, 11, 12 Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2:00 & 6:00 p.m. @ Cotton Hall Theater 166 Main St. Colquitt, GA 39837 This production transplants Charles Dickens’ classic Christmas story to the hot Georgia winter. Ebenezer Scrooge - the crotchety, old proprietor of Scrooge & Marley Cotton - hates Christmas. It isn’t until he is visited by three ghosts that old Mr. Scrooge learns the true meaning of generosity. (229) 758-5450 www.swampgravy.com

Chili Country Christmas

December 3 & 4 6:30 p.m. @ We Piddle Around Theater N. Main St. Brundidge, AL 36010 Featuring Josh Goforth. Pots of piping hot chili with all the fixin’s are served family-style at the historic theater. Preshow, musicians strum dulcimers, fiddles and banjos, bringing to you the songs of the season. (334) 685-5524 wepiddlearoundtheater@gmail.com piddle.org

Christmas at the Copa

g nty iy

n nhe e rk ad w st or

ns his s h

December 1-4, 8-11, 15-18 6:00 p.m. nightly @ Southern Broadway Dinner Theater 104 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Glimpse a glamorous, bygone era in American history, when supper clubs, as the primary source of nightlife, provided top-notch entertainment, excellent food, and spontaneous thrills. (334) 470-6568 director@southernbroadway.com www.southernbroadway.com

Christmas Songs & Music with John Berry

December 20 7:00 p.m. @ Dothan Opera House 115 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 Celebrate the greatest season of all with music. www.dothanciviccenter.org

Every Christmas Story Ever Told (And Then Some)

December 9-12 Thursday-Saturday 7:00 p.m. / Sunday 2:00 p.m. @ Spanish Trail Playhouse 680 2nd St. Chipley, FL 32428 Three actors perform every Christmas story ever told - plus Christmas traditions from around the world, seasonal icons from ancient times to topical pop-culture, and every carol ever sung.

Festivals

Newton Christmas Festival

Christmas at the Farmers Market ad on Back Cover

December 4 7:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m. @ Enterprise Farmers Market 525 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36360 Make your holidays a little more homemade and enjoy Fresh Produce, Local Vendors, Ornament Painting, Storytime, & Pictures with Santa.

Christmas in Candyland ad on page 25

December 3-31 @ Downtown Andalusia 505 E. Three Notch St. Andalusia, AL 36420 Your winter wonderland adventure is closer than you think! Make lasting holiday memories and watch children’s imaginations grow. Enjoy kidsized cottages, snow flurries, ice-skating, train rides, a Holiday Circus and more! (334) 222-2030 www.christmasincandyland.com

Victorian Christmas ad on page 13

December 12 1:00-4:00 p.m. @ Landmark Park 430 Landmark Dr. Dothan, AL 36303 Sip hot apple cider or hot chocolate while listening to Christmas carols and visiting with Santa. Enjoy old fashioned desserts, arts and crafts, music, wagon rides and handmade decorations. A circuit riding preacher will deliver a holiday message. Admission is free and visitors are encouraged to bring nonperishable food items for donation to the Food Bank. (334) 794-3452 www.landmarkparkdothan.com

Whoville Holiday Celebration ad on Back Cover

December 4 10:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. @ Downtown Enterprise, AL 36330 Holiday Fun for the Entire Family in beautiful Downtown Enterprise! SAVE THE DATE and Join the fun in Downtown Enterprise as we transform into “Whoville for the Holidays” at our “Whoville Holiday Celebration”!

(850) 638-9113 spanishtrailplayhouse@gmail.com www.spanishtrailplayhouse.com

(334) 348-2738 www.enterprisedowntown.org

The Elf on the Shelf: A Christmas Musical

November 26-27 @ Aaron Bessant Park 500 W. Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL 32413 Holiday fun for the entire family, with carol-themed concerts, s’mores, an appearance by Santa, live entertainment by Josh Turner and the Panama City Symphony Orchestra, shopping, food trucks and more.

December 4 2:00 & 6:00 p.m. @ The BJCC 2100 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N Birmingham, AL 35203 The thrilling spectacle of music and dance that transports audiences to the North Pole to glimpse the magical lives of Santa’s Scout Elves. (205) 458-8400 social.media@bjcc.org www.bjcc.org

We Need Christmas Tour

December 18 7:00 p.m. @ Dothan Civic Center 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 Make plans to sing some of your favorite Christmas songs (and maybe some of your new favorite Christmas songs) with Matthew West this December! www.dothanciviccenter.org

Holiday Concert & Gala Dinner

December 14 7:30 p.m. @ Dothan Civic Center 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 It wouldn’t be the holidays without Dothan’s most popular holiday tradition. Featuring the Atlanta Pops Orchestra and guest singers Timothy Miller and original Celtic Women star Chloe Agnew. www.dothanciviccenter.org

Beach Home for the Holidays

Christmas on the Square

December 4 9:30 a.m.-4:00 p.m. EST @ Court Square Blakely, GA 39823 Food vendors, arts & crafts, children’s games, entertainment.

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

Downtown Christmas Festival and Tree Lighting

December 4 3:00-6:30 p.m. @ Downtown Dothan, AL 36301 The festival will highlight downtown merchants and restaurants, offer a chance for children to meet Santa, have fun with arts and crafts projects, ride the “Polar Express” train, and so much more! Festivities will end with the official lighting of the City of Dothan Christmas tree at the Dothan Civic Center. (334) 615-3700 leisureservices@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

December 11 9:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. 9 N. College St. Newton, AL We will have Holiday Shopping from 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. followed by our Christmas Parade at 5:00 p.m. that will end at Heroes’ Memorial Park with our Christmas Tree Lighting and Visit with Santa.

Hilary Peace (334) 790-4624

Ole’ Time Christmas

December 10-11 6:00-8:00 p.m. @ Pioneer Museum 248 Hwy. 231 North Troy, AL 36081 This tradition-filled event will feature colorful decorations, holiday treats, storytelling, ornament making, Christmas music, Santa Claus and lots of holiday fun. Admission: $10 Adults; $9 Seniors/ Military; $8 Students, Free for Members & Children Under 5 (334) 566-3597 pioneer@troycable.net www.pioneer-museum.org

Holiday Food Free Thanksgiving Dinner

November 25 11:00 a.m. @ Chopper’s Ol’ School BBQ 224 Donnell Blvd. Daleville, AL 36322 Choppers puts on this free thanksgiving dinner each year for the community and could use donations and volunteers to assist. (334) 447-8049 choppersolschoolbbq@gmail.com sweettoothbbq.com

Homicide at the Tacky Sweater Shindig December 17 6:30 p.m. @ Black Cat Bakeshop & Kitchen 123 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Tickets $45. Many dress up in sweaters but not required. This is an audience participation event not a dinner show. Guests will be the actors and BCB the hosts and game masters. You may BYOB. Children 12+ welcome with adults present. (334) 475-4600

The Great Pumpkin-Brulee Making & Dinner

November 19 6:30 p.m. @ Black Cat Bakeshop & Kitchen 123 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Bring your best date and learn how to make delicious pumpkin brûlée, from mixing to baking to fire your very own autumn treat. Tickets $45 per person. (334) 475-4600

Twas the Night Before MurderChristmas Mystery Dinner

December 4 6:00 p.m. @ Black Cat Bakeshop & Kitchen 123 N. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36330 It was time for the annual pre-Christmas meeting at Mr. and Mrs. Santa Claus’s home in the North Pole. The meeting was productive and the Christmas spirit was soaring high until to everyone’s shock...a murder occurred! Tickets $45. You may BYOB. Children 12+ welcome with adults present. (334) 475-4600

Holiday Photos Santa Experience ad on page 19

November 5-7 @ Lolly Poss Photography 2200 Ozark Hwy. Enterprise, AL 36330 A private VIP photo session with Santa. Your child can ask Santa as many questions as they’d like, share their wish list, complete a Christmas craft, enjoy milk and cookies, find their name on the nice

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

list, and walk away with a special gift. Heirloom quality products available for purchase.

(334) 475-0069 lollypossphotography@gmail.com www.lollypossphotography.com

Christmas Special

November15-19 @ Mattox Studios 5239 Brown St. Graceville, FL 32440 Our annual children’s Christmas Special is coming up in November! Give us a call to book your session! (850) 263-2738 josh@mattoxstudio.com www.mattoxstudios.com

Vintage Truck Christmas Portrait Sessions

November 5-7 @ Lake Tholocco Ft. Rucker, AL 36362 Vintage Truck Portrait Mini Sessions. Proceeds benefit the Ft. Rucker Community Spouses Club fundraising for scholarships and awards. $75 includes 10 minute session, 3 digital images, and print release. www.thepottershandphotography.com

Light Displays Cajun Christmas

December 18-24 @ Zoo World 9008 Front Beach Rd. Panama City Beach, FL Celebrate Christmas with the most spirited bunch around! Chainsaw ice carving, Photos with Santa, his “Elf”igator and the Snow Queen, crafts, and SNOW! www.zooworldpcb.com

Christmas Lights Festival

December 3-25 5:30-9:00 p.m. @ Montgomery Zoo 2301 Coliseum Pkwy Montgomery, AL 36110 See the Montgomery Zoo transformed into a Winter Wonderland displaying thousands of sparkling and twinkling lights and festive decorations. Take a leisurely stroll, a brisk train ride, or see the lights from atop the Zoofari Skylift Adventure Ride. www.montgomeryzoo.com

Christmas on Oakwood

Nightly in December @ Westbrook Subdivision Oakwood Drive Dothan, AL 36303 Tune your radio to 98.1fm to listen to the lights and dance to music. Please be mindful of neighbors and others enjoying the lights. Please do not liter or block driveways, and please remain in your vehicles.

Eufaula Christmas Tour of Homes

December 4-5 Eufaula, AL 36027 This delightful tour boasts lovely, unique homes decorated for Christmas as only Eufaulians can do. Experience Christmas as never before in some of the South’s finest homes! Schedule and ticket info available on website. www.eufaulapilgrimage.com

Gardens Aglow

November 26 & 27, December 3, 4, 10,11, 17, 18, & 24 5:00-8:00 p.m. @ Dothan Area Botanical Gardens 5130 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL 36303 Stroll through the Gardens and enjoy the many festive lights and displays. Food trucks will be on site. Admission is $8 per person over age 8. Tickets are timed and must be purchased in advance. Flashlights recommended. (334) 793-3224 www.dabg.com

Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

Trawick’s Christmas in the Woodlands

Nightly in December 5:00-9:00 Sunday-Thursday and 5:00-10:00 Friday and Saturday Corner of Highway 84 & Boll Weevil Circle Enterprise, AL 36330 Drive-through Christmas light display. Train rides available some dates in December. Admission is free.

Wild Adventures Christmas

December 4-5, 11-12, 18-23, 26-30, January 1-2 @ Wild Adventures Theme Park 3766 Old Clyattville Rd. Valdosta, GA 31607 Experience over one million Christmas lights in winter wonderland colors each night, snow showers everyday and tons of family photo opportunities! www.wildadventures.com

Miscellaneous 5k & Fun Run with the Grinch ad on Back Cover

December 11 110 E. College St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Join the Grinch, along with Friends of Main Street for our first annual 5k & Fun Run. 5k is $25 with Tshirt included. Fun Run is $15 for 12& under with 2 & under free. T-shirt included.

Candyland Half Marathon and 5K ad on page 25

December 4 7:00 a.m. @ Christmas in Candyland 505 E Three Notch St Andalusia, AL 36420 Come run Candyland! The race will start and end in the cutest Christmas cottage village you’ve ever seen. Half marathon will take you on a tour of some of Andalusia’s small town highlights. Come and see if you can achieve the special Gingerbread person award for the fastest person in each race!! (334) 222-2030 www.christmasincandyland.com

Ice & Lights Downtown Ice Rink

November 26-January 9 Movie Nights: December 7 (Elf), December 14 (National Lampoons Christmas Vacation), December 21 (Frozen) Tuesday-Thursday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Friday 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday 1-8 p.m.; Christmas Day 1-9 p.m.; New Year’s Eve 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Closed Mondays @ Wadlington Park North Foster Stree Dothan, AL 36303 $10 per person, includes skate rental. Join us on our theme nights, including movie nights in Porter Park, which start at 6:30 p.m. (334) 615-3700 leisureservices@dothan.org www.iceskatedothan.com

Inaugural Turkey Classic

November 22-23 @ Dothan Civic Center 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL 36303 An AHSAA sanctioned single elimination High School Basketball Tournament featuring 8 teams fighting for a seed in the Downtown Dothan Hoops Classic. $6 per day or $10 for a two-day pass (334) 615-3700 leisureservices@dothan.org www.dothanleisureservices.org

Peppermint Pageant

December 4 12:00 p.m. @ Englund Estate 152 College St. Cuthbert, GA 39840 Pre-registration required. Registration closes November 21. Open to residents of Georgia, Alabama, and Florida. azaleasouth@gmail.com www.eventbrite.com/e/ peppermint-pageant-tickets-157834506257

Wreaths Across America

December 18 12:00 p.m. @ Sunset Memorial Park 1700 Barrington Rd Midland City, AL 36350 Remember and Honor our veterans through the laying of Remembrance wreaths on the graves of our country’s fallen heroes and the act of saying the name of each and every veteran aloud. Wreaths are placed on as many graves as there are sponsored. $15 per wreath.

D O

Parades & Tree Lightings Christmas in Toyland Parade ad on Back Cover

November 30 6:30 p.m. Main Street Enterprise, AL 36330 Enjoy the floats, marchers and excitement of the largest Christmas parade in the Southeast!

offe the

Enterprise Christmas Tree Lighting

(33

December 2 6:00 p.m. @ City Hall 501 S. Main St. Enterprise, AL 36360 Join Mayor William E. Cooper for an evening of musical performances, hot cocoa, cookies, Santa and the lighting of the City’s Christmas Tree.

198 At sho pro The

ad on Back Cover

Movie Meet & Greet with the Grinch & Who Crew ad on Back Cover

November 20 @ Clark Cinemas 10 100 New Centre Dr. Enterprise, AL 36360 Come meet the Grinch and his Who-Crew before each showing of the Grinch Movie!

Daleville Christmas Parade

December 4 5:30 p.m. Daleville, AL 36322 There will be a tree lighting ceremony and a visit from Santa following the parade. www.dalevilleareachamber.com

Downtown Christmas Festival and Tree Lighting

Eufaula Christmas Parade December 7 5:00 p.m. Eufaula, AL 36027

kwright@eufaulachamber.com

(33

444 Ho hom fine

(33

No 434 The baz will non for

(33

De 134 Cra Ch

No @F 179

(33 ww

Where to Shop

De 152 Art in t and gar S’m ligh

Black Friday Pajama Party

St.

Ozark Tree Lighting & Parade December 7 6:00 p.m. Ozark, AL 36360

ad on Back Cover

November 26 7:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. @ Downtown Enterprise, AL 36330 Roll out of bed, come in your pjs and enjoy unique shopping at our Black Friday Pajama Party! (334) 348-2738 www.enterprisedowntown.org

www.wiregrassparents.com

eng

No @S 123 Co cra

ts, e!

Downtown Holiday Open House ad on Back Cover

November 19-20 10:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. @ Downtown Enterprise, AL 36330 Shop Local and start your Holiday Shopping off right in beautiful Downtown Enterprise! Enjoy our wonderful downtown hospitality and diverse offering of merchants to provide unique gifts for the holidays!

We help navigate the mental health system for teens and children. Psychiatric Intake Response Center (PIRC)

(334) 348-2738 www.enterprisedowntown.org

Faith’s Treasures ad on page 7

205- 638-PIRC ( 74 72 )

1983 S. Brannon Stand Rd. Dothan, AL 36305 At Faith’s Treasures we strive to give you a unique shopping experience by providing locally made products in addition to other collections we offer. There is a lil’ something for everyone here. (334) 446-4012 faithstreasures.com

House of Flowers ad on page 13

PIRC is a confidential phone response center linking adult callers to mental health resources for children and teens.

(334) 699-1800 dothanhouseofflowers.com

Service is provided by licensed mental health professionals who educate callers and recommend the most appropriate treatment options.

4440 W. Main St., Suite 1 Dothan, AL 36305 House of Flowers is a full service floral and gift home/office decorating shop that carries some of the finest fresh cut and silk arrangements in our area.

Fall Craft Bazaar

November 6 9:00 a.m. @ VFW Post 6020 434 Hwy. 84 E Daleville, AL 36322 The Post and Auxiliary will be holding a craft bazaar! Many vendors from across the Wiregrass will be there to show their products. Entry fee for non-vendors: $5 or 5 non-perishable food items for local food banks.

PIRC hours are 8:00 am — 11:00 pm, 7 days a week. PIRC is NOT a crisis or suicide hotline. Call for mental health resources.

(334) 598-6211

Festival on the Boulevard

December 4 9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. 1348 South Blvd. Chipley, FL Craft Vendors, Food Vendors, Car Show, Children’s Activities, and more.

Market of Hope

November 20 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. @ Fostering Hope 17965 Hwy. 431 Headland, AL 36345

(334) 699-1563 fosteringhope334@gmail.com www.fosteringhopewiregrass.com

The PIRC is generously supported by funding from the Anne B. LaRussa Foundation of Hope, Brasfield and Gorrie, LLC, the Daniel Foundation of Alabama, the Hill Crest Foundation, the Gorrie family, and the Walker Area Community Foundation.

PIRC-0001_PIRC_Ad_Montgomery_Parent-4.9x7.5.indd 1

10/4/21 12:55 PM

Mistletoe Market & Art Show

December 5 12:00-5:00 p.m. @ Englund Estate 152 College St. Cuthbert, GA 39840 Artists & vendors promote and sell their goods in time for the Holidays. Some live performances and activities as well! Enjoy artists work in our garden, shop vendors under our Belvedere, enjoy S’mores from 5-6 as we watch our Christmas lights come on! englundestate@gmail.com

St. John Christmas Market

November 6 9:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. @ St. John Catholic Church 123 Heath St. Enterprise, AL 36330 Come out and support local small businesses and crafters at our annual Christmas Market. WP

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

tow yo

the fle yo fle ins ac low co

bru ma ag wa the

So lin Fo yo

giv Bu wh sh fou no lig

Regardless of how gracefully we want to handle aging, we often find ourselves making heroic efforts to stave it off, starting in early adulthood. The proof is that women of all ages (even in their 20s) are spending small fortunes on Botox injections, fillers, and plastic surgery. Also, many who don’t go to such drastic measures still spend hundreds of dollars a year on anti-aging lotions and potions. Fortunately, you don’t have to undergo risky and costly procedures or resort to ineffective concoctions to enjoy a more youthful appearance.

Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

the ski ab too are sili

co ton Als sin ply for 32

www.wiregrassparents.com

It’s All in the Application

Clothing That Compliments

Makeup techniques can go a long way toward fine-tuning your features to make you look younger. So give these a try.

Your clothing can either add years or subtract them from your appearance. Consider the following tricks to make clothing work in your favor.

The eyes have it To make your eyes look bigger, line the inside of your lower lid with a white or flesh-colored eyeliner. Then brighten up your eye area by dabbing pale pink, flesh, or oyster color shadow to the inside corners of your eyes. Also, add a couple more dabs just under your lower lashes moving from the inner corner of your eye to the center. For your lashes, flare them. First, brush through your lashes as usual with mascara. Then sweep through them again and pull your outer lashes outward and inner lashes inward. Repeat these steps with your lower lashes.

Out with the black

If you’re over 35, banish black above your waist. As you age, black draws atten-

finally gotten the message. You can find shapewear now that’s both sexy and more comfortable to wear. Shapewear can shave years off your appearance by creating a sleek look.

Health and Attitude Is Everything Physical and emotional wellness goes a long way toward both looking and

Youthful lips Full lips make you look younger. So invest in a quality, long-lasting lip liner, and line your top and bottom lip. For fuller lips, line just to the outside of your lip line.

A flawless complexion

Foundation can do wonders to give you flawless, youthful-looking skin. But your skin type and age may dictate what type works best. On younger skin, sheer coverage is best. On mature skin, foundation can make your lines more noticeable. So look opt for a sheer, very lightweight foundation or skip it altogether.

tion to your fine lines. For tops and jackets, wear colors that compliment you. Everyone looks great in particular colors. So play those up. This also goes for black-framed eyeglasses. Opt instead for metallics, bright colors, or lighter colored frames.

Avoid the dry look

Keep it stylish, but don’t overdo it

Unless you have very oily skin, skip the face powder because it can make your skin look dry and any lines more noticeable. If you must use powder to control too much shine, apply it only in your oily areas. Also, look for a translucent pure silica formulation and avoid mica or talc.

Add some color Use soft pink or bright coral blush to add color and brighten your face. Avoid bronze tones, which only serve to age your skin. Also, use cream rather than powder blush since powder makes your skin look dryer. Apply blush along the top of your cheekbones, forehead, and center of your chin.

As you age, dressing trendy from head to toe is hard to pull off without drawing attention to your age. Instead, mix a pair of classic pants and shirt, with a trendy sweater. Or add style to a pair of jeans and a classic top with a pair of fashionable boots (so long as they aren’t bulky). Another option is to choose pieces that are mostly classic but have a stylish flair.

Shapers aren’t what they used to be That’s excellent news. At one time, many women wouldn’t be caught dead wearing the hideous shapewear that existed. But lingerie companies have 33

feeling younger. A positive outlook on life is beneficial to your physical health. In contrast, anger, stress, and depression increase your risk of disease. Negative emotions also reflect in your posture and face. So, make wellness a priority. Exercise is an essential part of physical and mental wellness and should be a part of your daily routine. A regimen of aerobic exercise for your heart and lungs and weight lifting for muscle tone and bone health will help you maintain your youth longer. As an added benefit, exercise also releases endorphins, which elevates your mood. So remember good health and a positive attitude have the most significant impact on maintaining a youthful appearance. With these, you’ll glow and emanate radiance. WP

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online store, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions and fine bindings at sagerarebooks.com.

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

FamilyCalendar Tuesday November 2

Mug IT Ashford Library, 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. Recipes will be available in our Youth Services Library while supplies last. If you do not have a mug, we will provide one for you. (334) 899-3121 www.dhcls.org Mug IT Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Westgate Branch, 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. Recipes will be available in our Youth Services Library while supplies last. If you do not have a mug, we will provide one for you. (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org

Wednesday November 3

Dive Into Diversity- Kukur Tihar (Dog Festival) Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, All Locations Celebrate the Kukur Tihar (Dog Festival) with DHCLS by reading A Dog Names Haku, by Margarita Engle. Video will go live at 10:30 AM on our Facebook page. Small craft bags available for pickup at all locations. Supplies are limited. www.dhcls.org

Thursday November 4

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. Pints & Paints ($35 per person) 6:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., Folklore Brewing & Meadery, 153 Mary Lou Lane Dothan, AL, 36301 Get your tickets to join us getting creative at the brewery! (334) 447-8796 eyecatchersart.com Virtual Artist Talk: Book Arts with Mary Ann Sampson, Jon Coffelt, and David Sandlin 6:00 p.m. Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Jon Coffelt will lead a conversation with fellow book artists Mary Ann Sampson and David Sandlin about their artbooks, publications, and the vast Book Arts world. www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Friday November 5

National Peanut Festival NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Nuttin But Fun in 2021. Eat your favorite Fair Food, Ride til your tired, Visit the Ag Barns & See the Premium Exhibits. Lots of vendors and plenty of Live Music. We got Sea Lions, a Circus Act, Chainsaw Art and Racing Pigs. $28 MegaPass includes the gate admission and a Ride Armband to use any 1 day. (334) 793-4323 www.nationalpeanutfestival.com

Saturday November 6

National Peanut Festival NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Details November 5.

Wiregrass Parents I November 2021

Young Eagles Rally 8:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Enterprise Municipal Airport, 867 Aviation Blvd. Enterprise, AL, 36330 Great opportunity for kids ages 8-17 to learn about aviation and get a free airplane ride! (601) 329-1334 First Saturday Family Day (Free) 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Pipe Cleaner Sculptures, Inspired by Charlie Lucas. Free art packets for the first 100 guests. Each packet will contain detailed instructions and all supplies needed and will be handed out on a first-come, first-served basis. www.wiregrassmuseum.org Bat House Building Workshop ($25) 1:00 p.m. Kolomoki Mounds State Park, 205 Indian Mounds Rd. Blakely, GA, 39823 All supplies and materials will be provided along with guided instructions. Must pre-register and pre-pay. One bat house per family. Call the park office to reserve your slot. (229) 724-2150

Sunday November 7

National Peanut Festival NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Details November 5. 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

Monday November 8

National Peanut Festival NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Details November 5. STEM Day Challenge Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, All Locations Kids ages 7-15 can stop by any DHCLS location to pick up a Glow in the Dark Salty Circuits kit. Registration is not required, but supplies are limited. One per family, please. www.dhcls.org

Tuesday November 9

National Peanut Festival NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Details November 5. Yoga in the Gardens ($10 members, $15 non-members) 8:30 a.m. - 9:30 a.m., Dothan Area Botanical Gardens, 5130 Headland Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Classes will be led by Mia Bolden in the Wedding Garden. Advanced registration required. (334) 793-3224 www.dabg.com Write Night 6:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 An evening of spoken word and an opportunity for members of our Wiregrass community to present original work! An open platform to share original poetry, prose, skits, and more. Works can be individual or collaborative and should not exceed five minutes in length when presented. www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Wednesday November 10

National Peanut Festival NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Details November 5. Crafternoon Tea 2:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, 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 November 11

National Peanut Festival NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Details November 5.

Friday November 12

National Peanut Festival NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Details November 5. Destination Motown ft. the Sensational Soul Cruisers 8:00 p.m. Dothan Civic Center, 126 N. St. Andrews St. Dothan, AL, 36303 The Sensational Soul Cruisers are an 11 piece show band that performs “Destination Motown,” where they deliver the greatest hits by the Temptations, the Jackson Five, Marvin Gaye, The Four Tops and so many others. (334) 615-3175 www.dothanciviccenter.org

Saturday November 13

National Peanut Festival NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Details November 5. 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

Sunday November 14

National Peanut Festival NPF Fairgrounds, 5622 Hwy 231 South Dothan, AL, 36301 Details November 5.

Thursday November 18

Crafty Teen: Cloud Lights Dothan-Houston Co. Library- Westgate Branch, 535 Recreation Rd. Dothan, AL, 36303 Hey Teens! Drop by the Westgate Branch and pick up November’s Crafty Teen project. This month’s project will be Cloud Lights and will include everything needed. The video with instructions will be posted on the library’s TikTok @DHCLS_Youth. This project is for Ages 13-18, available while supplies last. (334) 699-2950 www.dhcls.org

www.wiregrassparents.com

ing hav kin ani lim ww

Art 5:3 Mu gal on ww

Pa 5:0 Bea teth Bal ww

Art

Non

1:0 Mu kno on will exh How stu the ww

Pa 5:0 Bea teth Bal ww

Bu Dot Sto bric one ww

Vir 12: lan for (33

uckur AT

rs ion he our

e y

o .

5 p

oud eo Tok ail-

FamilyCalendar Teen Nature Club: Radical Reptiles (Free) 4:00 p.m. - 5:30 p.m., Dothan-Houston Co. Library - Main, 445 N. Oates St. Dothan, AL, 36303 Grades 6-10. Students will learn the importance of reptiles as well as their distinguishing characteristics, the different adaptations reptiles have to survive in their environment as well as what kinds of reptiles can be found in this area. Live animals will be joining us for this program. Space is limited and registration is required. www.dhcls.org

Every Tuesday

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 at the cash bar, and take in art on view. www.wiregrassmuseum.org

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

Friday November 19

Panama City Beach Balloon Glow 5:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m., 500 W Park Dr. Panama City Beach, FL, 32413 Hot air balloons glowing at dusk, tethered rides, food vendors, retail vendors and more! Balloon activity is subject to safe weather conditions. www.theballoonglowtour.com

Saturday November 20

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

Every Wednesday

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

Artist Workshop: Charlie Lucas ($40 Members, $50

Every Thursday

1:00 p.m. - 3:00 p.m., Wiregrass Museum of Art, 126 Museum Ave. Dothan, AL, 36303 Charlie Lucas, also known as “The Tin Man”, will join us for a handson creative experience with kids ages 7-17! Lucas will lead kids on a gallery adventure to explore his exhibition Charlie Lucas & Yvonne Wells: What I Knew How to Do to find inspiration for the workshop. Each student will create their own mixed media piece with the guidance and encouragement of Lucas. www.wiregrassmuseum.org

Every Friday

Non-Members)

Sunday November 21

Monday November 29

Build-It! Bricks Playset Dothan-Houston Co. Library System, All Locations Stop by any DHCLS location and pick up a Build-it! bricks playset. These sets are only for kids ages 4-12, one per family while supplies last. www.dhcls.org

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

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. (334) 774-5480 chlibrary@troycable.net ozarklibrary.com

all experience levels. You must pay in advance to reserve your spot for the evening. Ages 18+. Bring your own beverages and refreshments and we will provide everything else. Sign up in store, online, or over the phone. (334) 348-2738 allaboutartstudio@gmail.com www.AllAboutArtStudio.com 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. (334) 774-5480 chlibrary@troycable.net ozarklibrary.com

Find More Local Events at WiregrassParents.com! Because of ever-changing circumstances due to Covid-19, please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

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. (334) 774-5480 chlibrary@troycable.net ozarklibrary.com

Every Friday, Saturday, & Sunday

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

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!! (334) 774-5480 ozarklibrary.com 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

www.facebook.com/wiregrassparents

TG: My oldest daughter Lai’leane is super excited, especially since it is a boy (She said, “No more girls!”). My youngest Rae’lei is still adjusting. She has been the baby for five years, but she thinks she is the mom when all the cousins get together, so I believe he will grow on her and she will enjoy helping out with him. WP: What are some things you’re doing to prepare for becoming a bigger family? TG: There are lots of positive reasons to grow your family from giving your firstborn a playmate to extending your legacy. In some regards, the more children you have, the easier it becomes because you’ve already had practice. However, there are some challenges to expect every time you add a new child to the family. My daughters are super blessed by my family and they have tons and tons of toys, shoes and clothes. We have been decluttering the house for weeks and taken eight or more bags to the mission. The girls have moved into the same room, which was no problem because my youngest slept in my oldest’s room anyway!

Trai-Vana Lee Griffin

WP: With Thanksgiving coming up, we like to celebrate the things we are thankful for. This year, what are you most thankful for and why?

WP: Being a mom is exhausting, and you’re about to add a new baby into the mix. Tell me about how you make sure you stay at your best. What does self-care look like for you?

TG: I am thankful for my family every day, but definitely my daughters and my son growing inside of me. With not only Covid taking out numerous people in the past year, including unborn babies, but with all the shootings and killings that have been happening right here in the Wiregrass in the past few months, I pray not only for the safety of my children, but all children daily.

TG: Self care will be three times as difficult, but three times as important. I know from experience that downtime is harder to have once you have two kids, and I will be a mom of three very soon. My oldest two are 5 and 6, and my first getaway without them was just last year. It was then that I realized I have to make time for myself more than just once every five years. Now, I make sure I set a hair appointment every three-to-four weeks without them. I go to the nail salon without them. And I make sure I have a date night and enjoy time with my significant other a couple of times out of the month. WP: What’s something you hope your girls are learning from you, even if it’s not a direct lesson?

WP: How are you teaching your children to be grateful/thankful?

TG: To be humble. We have nothing to prove, but we have everything to offer. When my girls come home saying a child was mean or rude to them, we always talk about the situation, and I let them know that we do not know what that child could be going through at home. They could have a parent or an older sibling acting the same way or saying the same rude things to them.

TG: Life is not fair, and sometimes it’s up to us parents to bring up a child who will be able to appreciate the little and big things that life has to offer. True gratitude can be instilled through small principles. When a child is taught to be grateful from an early age, this positive characteristic is portrayed even into their adolescence and adulthood. There is no better way to teach your kids about love than by caring for those around you. Being generous with what little you have allows your kid to start being considerate of others’ feelings, not just their own. My girls take their lunch and snacks to school, and they always have plenty. My oldest daughter has come home a few times and said, “Mama, my friend didn’t have any snacks today, so I gave them a bag of my chips and water.”

WP: If you could give your younger self one piece of advice, what would it be? TG: Trust your instincts. I would tell my younger self not to worry too much about a decision you have to make. Do what would make you most happy. You know what you want. You might seek advice from other people, but deep down you know what you want. Always, if something doesn’t feel right or you have a doubt in it, it’s probably not right.

WP: Speaking of Thanksgiving, does your family have any traditions? TG: My mom passed away in 2019, and if you knew my mom, she was definitely a chef and would have laid out numerous items on her menu for Thanksgiving. We definitely stick to her menu every year. At dinnertime, we all go around the room and say one thing for which we are thankful. And what is Thanksgiving without a fun family game and going outside taking pictures?

WP: Any advice or words of wisdom for new moms? TG: Motherhood is NOT a competition. Be proud of the parent YOU are! There’s no right way. It’s your way!

Trai-Vana Lee Griffin is a Pre-Kindergarten teacher at Kiddie Care Learning Center in Dothan. She has two daughters, Lai’leana (6) and Raelei’ (5), and is expecting a baby boy this month.

WP: You have two daughters already, with another baby on the way. Are the girls excited about getting a sibling? Wiregrass Parents I November 2021