Tara Crisan Sweatt

A huge congratulations to Dylan Palmer and Drew Layfield. Palmer made second team first baseman for The Alabama All State Team. Layfield made UTL for the first team. (UTL is baseball jargon for utility. It describes a team member who can play any position).

This is quite an honor. So, remember these names. Our state does not have a major league baseball team. But it may not be long before these Ashville Bulldogs are Atlanta Braves.

Today is the first day of summer. Many people are planning family vacations and Independence Day celebrations. Of which St. Clair has many: fireworks displays, outdoor movie nights. The fun and festivities on Pinedale road get bigger and brighter every year.

Some stay at home parents may be wondering what to do with their kids. No one wants the television, video games and the internet to babysit their kids. The weather gets too hot to just send them outside.

Students deserve a break. But too much unstructured time is not good for anyone. and it will likely make the return to school a more difficult and less pleasant adjustment.

Fortunately, there is Vacation Bible School. Pleasant Valley Church is hosting theirs on July 13 for grades fourth through seventh. There will be fun, games and prizes. Other churches host Bible schools that may not be as festive but last longer, some as long as a week.

The McCain Memorial Library has a full summer calendar including a reading program. It is a busy season for yard sales that are usually early in the day before the weather gets too hot. There is usually something for everyone. It’s also an opportunity to teach personal finance by paying kids for chores and letting them purchase within their own budgets.

Their are many benefits of arts and crafts. Or let your child choose his or her own hobby. This is a time for self discovery they can share with the family or just enjoy themselves.

For younger children, too much cannot be said for games requiring physical activity. You don’t have to be at a birthday party to play pin the take on the donkey, Simon says, or pack up a lunch for a picnic in the park. Google how to make an indoor obstacle course or treasure hunt.

Talk to other stay at home parents to arrange playdates. Take turns hosting them. And, if it hasn’t occurred to you, tire them out for a nap … and maybe one for you.

Have a great week, Ashville. Enjoy this time. And, in the most literal sense, stay too cool for school!