Augusta Family Magazine February 2014 by Augusta Family Magazine

February 2014 ANNUAL PARTY GUIDE SINGING THE BIRTHDAY BLUES SMART MOM’S GUIDE TO SKIN CARE SOCHI 2014

Family AUGUSTA

m a g a z i n e

PARENTING MEDIA ASSOCIATION

2013 Gold Award Winner Editorial and Design Awards Competition

Violet Rich, 4, is the daughter of Jamie Rich of Grovetown.

Family AUGUSTA

m a g a z i n e

ww w. a u g u s t afamily.co m PUBLISHER Kate Cooper Metts

Contents

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EDITOR Karin Calloway PRODUCTION Art Director / Web Producer Michael Rushbrook

Best Birthday Bashes

Our Guide To Party Places Throughout the CSRA By Lucy Adams

Graphic Artist Chris Goodman ADVERTISING Director of Advertising Lisa Dorn

Singing Those Happy Birthday Party Blues By Lucy Adams

Advertising Sales Maidi McMurtrie Thompson Mary Porter Vann Audience Development Manager Doressa Hawes PHOTOGRAPHY Branch Carter and John Harpring CONTRIBUTORS Lucy Adams Kim Beavers, MS, RD, CDE Grace Belangia Monica Dutcher J. Ron Eaker, M.D. Cammie Jones Jennie Montgomery Danielle Wong Moores Augusta Family Magazine is published 10 times per year and distributed throughout the Augusta and Aiken area. Send press releases, story ideas or comments to the editor at karin.calloway@augustafamily.com or mail to 127A 7th Street, Augusta, GA 30901 or telephone (706) 828-3946. For advertising information, telephone (706) 823-3702. For circulation/ distribution, call (706) 823-3722.

departments 7 9

editor’s page mom2mom

Mom’s Ready for School -Jennie Montgomery

10 12

news&notes 32 eating well with kim Beans, Beans They’re Good for Your Heart -Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE

doctor/dad

34 46

To Snip or Not To Snip

-J. Ron Eaker, M.D.

time out!

Sochi 2014 Fascinating Facts About the Winter Olympics -Deanne Haines

inspiration station

Basketball and Beyond -Danielle Wong Moores

calendar go girl!

Kari Baker

-Karin Calloway

smart mom’s guide Skin Care In Your 20s, 30s & 40s -Cammie Jones

ON THE COVER: Violet Rich, 4, is the daughter of Jamie Rich of Grovetown. Photo by Ashley Cliett of Branch Carter Photography.

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February qu ick pick “Parents fear the implications of the non-invitation. They worry that it has global ramifications, that their child will never be liked or have friends or be invited to birthday parties.” Read Lucy Adams’ article about handling birthday party exclusion and other birthday party issues on page 18.

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editor’s by Karin Calloway

Tripp and CC Calloway, ages 3 and 4, cut up for the camera.

My Funny Valentines

f you’re in the midst of raising young children you probably wonder how you’ll get everything done on a daily basis. Driving to preschool, packing lunches, planning family meals, doing load after load of laundry—all while working and raising children—can be daunting. I remember those days well and I’m here to tell you that there is light at the end of the tunnel. As a mom who has crossed over to the “other side,” both children are in college now, I do recall those days in which the to-do list seemed undoable and I felt like all I could do was put my head down and plough through it. My advice to younger moms is to let some things go. Perfection isn’t possible at this juncture in your life, and these children will not be in your care forever. No, the laundry won’t wash itself, nor will dinner cook itself, but your kids won’t remember that they didn’t have clean socks one time or ate peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for dinner. They’ll remember the times you stopped focusing on the mundane and focused on them. The photo above prompted me towards this bout of introspection. I honestly don’t remember taking it. It was probably one of those crazy days when I let my to-do list get the better of me. I obviously took my own advice, however, and enjoyed some playful time with my kids. I sure am glad I did! Happy Valentine’s Day! Until March,

KARIN CALLOWAY is a wife and mother of two. She’s also a journalist and recipe developer who writes the Wednesday cooking column for The Augusta Chronicle. Watch Karin prepare her recipes on WJBF NewsChannel 6 on Tuesdays during Mid-Day and Wednesdays during Good Morning Augusta.

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Dental Health Month

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mom m m

ILLUSTRATION BY MICHAEL RUSHBROOK

by Jennie Montgomery

Mom’s Ready for School!

ou’ll remember that very unusual cold snap we had at the start of the year. All the talk on the news was about the Polar Vortex blowing an arctic freeze across the land. I was concerned about my daughter starting her car early enough for it to warm up the next morning, making sure she had a quilt or something in the car with her, and so on. These thoughts were circling in my brain the night before school started back in January. All too soon, the alarm on my phone was going off. 6:40am already? I dragged myself down the hall and woke her up. As I was making her lunch, the bitter cold was on my mind and I decided to fix her a grilled cheese sandwich for breakfast. A few minutes later Sky bounced down the stairs wearing a new scarf she’d gotten for Christmas and her boots. I handed her the warm sandwich, hot tea in her Tervis tumbler and her backpack. This girl was ready to brave the elements! I walked with her into the garage and watched as my baby backed out of the driveway, ready for the first day of her last semester of high school. It was a little emotional for me, which I hadn’t expected. About 10 minutes later my phone rang. I saw her name pop up on my screen and I answered saying, “What did you forget?” Silence...then, loudly, “MOM, there is no traffic. I am in the parking lot at Lakeside and there are only teachers’ cars here! Why did you get me up? It’s a teacher workday!” Fortunately, the kid is good natured and rolls with the punches. She took a couple of selfies in the empty parking lot and tweeted to her (sleeping) friends, “Hey- no school today! My mom the newslady didn’t know!” Oh well, better a day early than a day late! JENNIE MONTGOMERY anchors the evening news at WJBF-TV. She and her husband, Scott, have three children: Zack, 20, Maddy, 19, and Sky, 18.

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news notes

8cc pfl e\\[ `j cfm\% 9lk X c`kkc\ Z_fZfcXk\ efn Xe[ k_\e [f\jeËk _lik% -Charles M. Schulz

Valentine be my

Gun Safety IT IS ESTIMATED THAT ABOUT ONE THIRD OF HOUSEHOLDS with children ages 17 and under have a gun in the home. So whether you own one or not, it’s very important to talk to kids about the potential dangers of guns. Teach kids to not touch guns and to immediately tell an adult if they see one. Safe Kids Greater Augusta, led by Children’s Hospital of Georgia, works to prevent accidental childhood injury, the leading killer of children ages 1 to 14. Safe Kids Greater Augusta is a member of the Safe Kids USA network. To ﬁnd out more about local Safe Kids programs, call 706-721-7606, or visit grhealth.org/ safekids. Read Safe Kids complete article about gun safety at www.augustafamily.com.

VALENTINE’S DAY EVENTS are planned throughout the CSRA including special craft projects at local

libraries and date night opportunities for parents. February 8. Valentine’s Day Story Time. 11 a.m. Barnes & Noble, Augusta Mall. February 8. Children’s Valentine’s Craft Day. 2-3 p.m. Augusta Headquarters Library. February 8, 14 & 15. Valentine’s Date Night Out. Feb. 8, ages 2-12, at the Family Y of North Augusta

from 5-11 p.m. Feb. 14 & 15, ages 2-12, at the Family Y of Downtown Augusta from 4:30-9 p.m. Feb. 15 at the Wilson Family Y, ages 4-13, from 4:30-9 p.m. Feb. 15 at the Family Y of Aiken, ages 2-12, from 5-11 p.m. February 11. Special Valentine’s Day Story Time & Craft.10-10:30 a.m. Friedman Branch Library. February 11. Valentine’s Day Crafts. Ages 1-11. 10-11 a.m. Diamond Lakes Library. February 12. Valentine’s Day Craft & Games. 4-5 p.m. Maxwell Branch Library. February 12. Kids’ Valentine’s Day Party. Call 706-736-6758 to register. 5:30-7 p.m. Friedman Branch Library. February 14. Valentine’s Day Full Moon Hike. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. 9-11 p.m.

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View Our On-Line Extras at www.AUGUSTAFAMILY.com

Family A AUGUST

e a z i n m a g 2013 Gold r Winne Award

Wonders Winter

AND LIAM, 2, STRATTON, PRESTON SONS 4, ARE THE AND OF JARED STRATTON BRITANI TOWN. OF GROVE

FRESH FACES IS YOUR CHILD READY FOR THEIR “close up?” If you think you’ve got a “cover kid,” submit their photo and information on our website and they may grace the cover of Augusta Family Magazine!

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SOUTHERN SOUL & SONG

STORYBOOK BRUNCH

DON’T MISS RODNEY CROWELL AND RAY WYLIE HUBBARD February 14 at the Imperial Theater. Part of the Southern Soul & Song concert series. Enter to win tickets at augustafamily.com

WE’RE GIVING AWAY two pairs of tickets for two to the Storybook Brunch, which will be held on Saturday, March 1. Enter to win at augustafamily.com.

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...Bones... ...Brains...Cells... ...Veins... ...The Digestive System...

! c i t s App-Ta The Human Body CURIOUS KIDS? THE HUMAN BODY APP FOR IPHONE, IPAD AND IPOD TOUCH lets curious kids of all ages investigate a dynamic, working model of the body. Explore the skeletal, muscular, nervous, circulatory, respiratory and digestive systems to learn what weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re made of and how we work. Immersive puzzles without levels or a beginning and end enable learning through deep exploration and inquiry. The app uses in-device features such as the camera to demonstrate how the eyes see, the microphone captures sounds moving from the ear to the brain and device-orientation makes the body sensitive to the effects of gravity. The app is by Tinybop, Inc., and is available in 40 languages, costs $2.99 and can be purchased from the iTunes app store. Learn more about The Human Body app at www.tinybop.com.

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eating well with kim

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by Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE

Beans,

They’re Good for Your Heart

f you were a kid or have kids then you know how to finish that sentence. As a mother, I have often thought back to when my kids were babies and how we would cheer when they expressed pent up gas— which would be of great relief for them. However, as they have grown older, the cheering for that type of behavior has stopped since now, at an older age, it is no longer socially appropriate—albeit still an important bodily function (just better done more discretely). Yet, I still cheer for beans. They are an amazing food. Beans are rich in protein, fiber, potassium, folic acid and zinc. They are inexpensive and under-utilized, but are gaining in popularity. From the pinto beans in Mexico to lentils of India,

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beans and legumes have been the culinary cornerstone of many cultures for thousands of years.

What’s the Difference Between Legumes and Beans? Beans are a member of the legume family. Legumes include lentils, peas, beans, peanuts and soybeans. For more information check out this informative website: www.beaninstitute.com. February is heart month and heart health is what I intended to talk about, I only got slightly sidetracked on the value of beans (which are good for the heart). One way legumes contribute to heart health is that they have a cholesterol-lowering effect. Studies also suggest that eating beans contrib-

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utes to lower body weight and, of course, a diet that is high in fiber. The bottom line: “Eat more beans, they’re good for your heart.”

How Much Should We Eat? The U.S. Dietary guidelines list beans as a food to increase. Recommendations are from ½ cup to 3 cups a week depending on calorie level, (average is about 1 ½ cups per week). Here are a few ideas to help increase your bean intake. r 4UBSU CZ TUPDLJOH ZPVS QBOUSZ XJUI B WBSJFUZ PG canned beans, such as chickpeas, black beans, cannellini beans, pinto beans, etc. r )BWF B HPPE TMPX DPPLFS PS QSFTTVSF DPPLFS

eating well with kim recipe at your finger tips: > Slow cooker: http://www.eatingwell.com/ recipes/slow_cooked_beans.html > Pressure cooker: > http://beaninstitute.com/wp-content/ uploads/2013/06/Pressure-cooker-tips_ handout.pdf t 4VCTUJUVUF CFBOT GPS QPUBUPFT PS SJDF BT B side dish twice a week t 4VCTUJUVUF CFBOT GPS TPNF PG UIF NFBU JO ZPVS meals. My favorite thing to do is to make a double batch of taco meat, divide it in half and add a can of beans to each half. It will freeze well and now you have two meals for the time and money it took to make one. t ,FFQ TNBMM DBOT PG CBLFE CFBOT BU UIF PGficeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;they make a great â&#x20AC;&#x153;emergencyâ&#x20AC;? snack. t 4OBDL PO SPBTUFE DIJDLQFBT PS IVNNVT There are many ways to eat beans, but my favorite way is in soup. This is one of my favorites and I hope you enjoy it as well.

Navy Bean Soup Use good center-cut bacon for this recipeâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;it calls for very little, so using the real thing is an important seasoning component. Enjoy! 2 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped 2 garlic cloves, minced 1 medium onion, chopped 3 medium carrots, chopped 2 ribs of celery, chopped 1 teaspoon thyme leaves 2 bay leaves Âź teaspoon salt Âź teaspoon pepper 2 quarts reduced-sodium chicken broth 1 pound Navy beans, cooked, or 6 cups of canned beans, rinsed and drained 3 tablespoons parsley, minced

until vegetables are tender,about 10 minutes. Add beans to the pot and heat through, about 5 minutes. To serve soup, remove bay leaves and ladle soup into bowls and top each serving with equal amounts of parsley and reserved bacon. Yield: 10 servings (1 Â˝ cup) Nutrient breakdown: Calories 200, Fat 2.5g (1g

saturated fat), Cholesterol 5mg, Sodium 480mg, Carbohydrate 34g, Fiber 12g, Protein 11g Percent Daily Value: 80% Vitamin A, 15% Iron, 10% Vitamin C, 10% Calcium Carbohydrate Choices: 2 Carbohydrates Diabetes Exchange Values: 2 Starches, 1 Vegetable, 1 Lean meat

Heat a Dutch oven over medium heat and add bacon. Cook bacon until crispy. stirring frequently to ensure even cooking. Once cooked, remove bacon from pan and set aside. Add garlic through pepper to the bacon drippings and sautĂŠ 5 minutes. Add broth and bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer

KIM BEAVERS is a Registered Dietitian and Diabetes Educator for University Health Care System. She lives in North Augusta with her husband and two children and she is the co-host of the culinary nutrition segment Eating Well with Kim, which airs at noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday on WRDW. To join the recipe club or view recipes, visit www.universityhealth.org/ewwk. You can also watch the segments at www.wrdw.com/ewwk.

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doctor dad by J. Ron Eaker, M.D.

Snip Snip

or not to

Some Answers To the Question of Circumcision

n this part of the country, the task of the circumcision falls to the obstetrician, and I have performed hundreds if not thousands over my career. I know from experience that many parents question this practice and struggle to decide whether or not to circumsize their infant sons. The origin of circumcision is clouded in myth, confusion and a simple lack of definitive evidence. There is conclusive proof that circumcision was practiced in ancient Egypt as long ago as 2400 years BC. There is speculation as to its purpose with a spectrum of proposed rationales. Robert Darby writes the following in his 2003 “Medical History and Medical Practice: Persistent Myths About the Foreskin” in the Medical Journal of Australia: “It has been variously proposed that it began as a religious sacrifice, as a rite of passage marking a boy’s entrance into adulthood, as a form of sympathetic magic to ensure virility or fertility, as a means of enhancing sexual pleasure, as an aid to hygiene where regular bathing was impractical, as a means of marking those of higher social status, as a means of humiliating enemies and slaves by symbolic castration, as a means of differentiating a circumcising group from their non-circumcising neighbors, as a means of discouraging masturbation or other socially proscribed sexual behaviors, as a means of removing “excess” pleasure, as a means of increasing a man’s attractiveness to women or as a demonstration of one’s ability to endure pain.” Many in the West associate circumcision with the Abrahamic Covenant that is so foundational to Judeo-Christian heritage. “This is the covenant that you and your descendants must keep: Each male among you must be circumcised.” (Genesis 17:10) This illustrates how, for

many societies, the religious significance dwarfs the medical indications.

Medical Reasons for Circumcision Whatever the historical reason, the practice has become widespread in the West as well as various other countries and cultures. Putting aside the ritual and religious significance, what does the medical community say about circumcision? In 1975, the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) stated that “there is no absolute medical indication for routine circumcision of the newborn.” In 1983, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) agreed with this position and reaffirmed the lack of medical evidence for the procedure. In 1999 and again in 2005, the AAP restated this position citing no compelling evidence that circumcision held any definable benefit. So why do an estimated 75 percent of newborn males in the United States get circumcised? Again, it is hard to separate the symbolism from the science, but there are some medical issues to entertain. 1) Circumcision prevents phimosis (the inability to retract the foreskin at an age when it should normally be retractable) and inflammation of the glans and foreskin. 2) Circumcision may result in a decreased incidence of urinary tract infections. 3) Circumcision may result in a lower incidence of sexually transmitted diseases and may reduce HIV transmission. 4) Circumcision may lower the risk for cancer of the cervix in sexual partners. 5) Circumcision may decrease the risk for cancer of the penis.

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It should be noted that all the prior reasons are predicated by “may.” The consensus is that there is still no compelling, iron-clad medical reason for circumcision. Are There Any Medical Drawbacks? Consider: Circumcision increases the chance of inflammation of the opening of the penis. Also, the foreskin protects the glans (head of the penis) from constant rubbing and chaffing against clothing that can desensitize it over the years.

Parental Considerations The first question a parent must ask is “why?” You must consider your own religious and cultural practices as well as your own history. Circumcision is a surgical procedure, albeit a minor one, but nevertheless should be evaluated with careful thought and consideration. The procedure itself can be done in a variety of ways and in most cases takes only a few minutes. There is even debate as to the utility of local anesthetic as many doctors will tell you that a baby’s response is largely identical whether or not numbing medicine is used. This is another area that the parents and doctor should agree upon prior to the procedure. I have to admit that I am somewhat surprised by the extensive debate surrounding the practice. There are passionate feelings on both sides. However, most experts agree that the decision to circumcise your child is personal and should be based on religious and cultural preferences, not because there is a medical benefit. Dr. Eaker is an Augusta Ob/GYN and author. He and his wife, Susan, have two daughters in college.

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smartMom’sguide by Cammie Jones

skin c a r e in your 20s, 30s & 40s

your skin protected with physical sunscreen—everyday,” says Tompkins. This includes not just your face but also your neck and chest. A large hat along with sunscreen and large sunglasses further protects your skin and will become a stylish, yet safe habit.

“These are most likely the years you’re facing acne and possibly some discoloration from sun damage. The most important thing to do is to keep

Here are some basic tips: 1. Wash your face every night with a gentle foaming cleanser and use a light moisturizer with an SPF daily. 2. Use a spot treatment with salicylic acid or benzoyl peroxide if you have any breakouts. “Whatever you do, do not pick—it can lead to long-lasting scars,” says Tompkins. 3. Use a serum at night that contains Vitamin C, especially if you are a not getting a lot of sleep because of one too many late-nighters.

’m 42 and I wish I could go back in time and start my skincare regime all over. My advice for those in their 20s, please use sunscreen and moisturizer! That summer “glow” just isn’t worth it when you start aging and, believe it or not, YOU WILL AGE! I decided to track down an expert who could offer up some skincare advice for you readers who are in your 20s, 30s or 40s. Meredith Tompkins, who owns La Dolce Vita Salon in Augusta with her husband, Kyle, gave me some tips to show off your “best side” no matter what your age.

In Your 20s

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smartMom’sguide

In your 30s Your skin at age 30-plus is only naturally exfoliating every 35 days as opposed to every 14 days in your 20s, according to Tompkins. So, you need to start exfoliating regularly. In addition: 1. Use a sconic skini cleansing brush, such as Clarisonic, every evening. 2. Use a non-foaming, non-drying cleanser. 3. In the daytime, before applying sunscreen, use an antioxidant-rich moisturizer. (Antioxidants act synergistically with sunblock to help guard against sun damage) 4. Add a retinoid to your regimen to help improve the overall texture and tone of your skin. “The highest strengths of retinoids are prescription only, but over-the-counter retinol is a close second,” says Tompkins. “Apply retinoids at night and

avoid putting them on your delicate upper eyelids.” She also advises to avoid over-treating your skin. If the retinol is too powerful, then “cocktail” it with a moisturizer., she says.

In your 40s “The lines of movement between your brows and around your eyes and mouth don’t disappear like they did in your 30s,” says Tompkins. Also, your estrogen level is tapering so your skin will become dryer. Tips for 40-plus: 1. Add moisture and collagen-building ingredients like peptides. 2. Cleanse using a non-foaming, non-drying cleanser along with a gentle face cleansing brush to help remove dead skin cells. 3. Continue to use SPF daily (to prevent further damage) that contains antioxidants to fight free

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radicals and help reverse existing damage. Tompkins says to make sure that retinols and peptides are added into your routine. Peptides help rebuild collagen, especially when used with skin texture-improving retinoids like retinol. “To get both ingredients in one dose (and at one price), opt for a serum,” adds Tompkins. “Use a moisturizer that has a high level of glycerin or hyaluronic acid to help skin retain the moisture it needs.” And here’s one final “secret trick” for all ages: If you can afford an $80-per-month facial, do it. Or go for the $150 intensive, microdermabrasion facial four times a year. Not only will it relax your mind and body, it will also make your home regimen products work more effectively. As Tompkins so perfectly puts it, “Stay gorgeous and hydrated!” Cammie Jones is an Augusta freelance writer and mother of three.

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hen I was a kid, the standard birthday celebration included candles and a cake with my parents and siblings. Occasionally a friend having a birthday would invite a few girls to spend the night or to go to dinner, but full-on parties with balloons, clowns and piñatas were rare. So when my children were in elementary school coping with the stresses—and I do mean stresses— of birthday parties, it was new territory for me. They didn’t understand why I limited the number of guests when other kids were inviting the entire class and often the entire grade. Birthday parties on that scale build up expectations, thus, I sometimes had to talk them through the shock of not receiving an invitation or the moral indignation they felt when a deserving classmate did not. These are tough issues in the grade-school years and can even cause angst for middle-schoolers. As parents, our drive to defend and protect is triggered when we feel our child has been slighted by the birthday honoree. On the flip side, no parent likes to feel pressured to have a huge, keeping-upwith-the-Joneses birthday bash. The situation can become tense and it requires level heads.

Why Isn’t My Child Invited? Usually the answer is simple: The host parents restricted the number of invitations their child could send. The parents may have set a budget and are extending invitations accordingly. Possibly the venue offering the party package designates a maximum number of people it can accommodate, charging extra for additional guests. Parents hosting a birthday party in their home may want to keep the group of children manageable. The size of the birthday party may also be a function of the parents’ personalities. While some are comfortable with large groups of kids, others may feel overwhelmed. Behavioral issues may also influence whether a child is invited to the birthday party. “It could be that the uninvited child is acting as a bully, or it could be they are struggling socially,” says Dr. Dale Peeples,

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www.augustafamily.com

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Party Time!

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www.augustafamily.com

Best

BIRTHDAY Bashes!

OUR GUIDE TO PARTY PLACES THROUGHOUT THE CSRA By Lucy Adams

Special occasions call for super celebrations! No matter your child’s personality, interests or age, Augusta Family’s party guide will get you started planning the perfect birthday bash. Have the entertainment come to you or reserve a venue that takes care of the details.Whatever you choose, wherever you choose, make this year’s birthday one to remember. www.augustafamily.com

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BIRTHDAY Bashes!

Move and Groove! Adventure Crossing www.adventure-crossing.com. 706-863-3087. 4350 Wheeler Rd., Martinez. Packages start at $159.90 plus tax for the ﬁrst 10 children, minimum; $13.99 for each additional party participant. INCLUDES:

• • • • • •

Private party room for one hour. Pizza or hot dogs/fries. Drinks. Paper products and basic decorations. Party set-up and party guide. Indoor and outdoor entertainment activities: Gocarts for ages 5-75, midway rides, 36 holes of minigolf or batting cages. Play inside their 6,210-squarefoot Lasertron laser tag area and arcade of fun.

Augusta Jewish Community Center www.augustajcc.org. 706-228-3636. 898 Weinberger Way, Evans. Rent a banquet room starting at $300 for 6+ hours, the pool for $225 for 2 hours ($75 for each additional hour) or the entire facility, including tennis courts, baseball and soccer ﬁelds and the basketball court, for $1500 for 10 hours. Pool rental and entire facility rental includes two lifeguards for up to 25 swimmers. Additional lifeguards are required for greater than 25 swimmers, at $15 per hour.

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Jump City www.jumpcity.us or www.augustamoonwalks.com. 706-262-4653. 4446 Washington Rd., Suite 7, Evans. Jump city delivers the party to your backyard. Rent inflatable slides, bounce houses, obstacle courses and water slides beginning at $140, depending on the apparatus. Up the fun with Sumo suits ($155), a dunk tank ($150), a rock wall (call for quote), a popcorn machine ($50), a sno-cone machine ($50) or a cotton candy machine ($50). Tables and chairs, generators, inflatable movie screens and sound systems are also available. Jumpin’ Beans Inflatables, Inc. http://jumpinaugusta.net. 706-560-0594 or 803-279-6333. 1746 Knox Ave., N. Augusta. Plan a party at their inside facility or have them deliver the fun to your home. Inflatable rentals begin at $105. Indoor party prices start at $210 for children ages 5+. Call for or visit the website for details. Parent brings the cake and ice cream. BASIC PARTY INCLUDES:

• Unlimited play on inﬂatables, cosmic mini-golf, zip line and bungee jump. • 1 ½ hour in the party room. • Party attendant. • Pizza and drinks. • Paper products. • Picture of the birthday child in the birthday chair.

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Jump’n Jitterbugs https://www.facebook.com/JumpinJitterbugs. 803-571-9001. North Augusta. Rent inﬂatable bounce houses, water slides and combo units. Free delivery and set up. Call for pricing. Monkey Joe’s www.monkeyjoes.com. 706-922-JUMP(5867). 368 Furys Ferry Rd., Suite 2, Martinez. Choose from a theme or standard party package accommodating up to 24 children ages 12 and under. Party prices range from $174 to $294, depending on the number of children and the day of the week. Make it a theme party for an additional fee. Additional guests are $9 each. INCLUDES:

• • • • • • • • •

2 hours in a private party suite. Dedicated party pro. Drinks. Paper products. Invitations. Gift for the birthday child. Pizza. Bring your own cake. Socks are required.

Family Y of Aiken County www.thefamilyy.org. 803-349-8080. 621 Trolley Line Rd., Graniteville, S.C. Indoor parties are available on Saturdays for chil-

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BIRTHDAY Bashes! dren ages 2+. Younger children will enjoy the softplay room. Children ages 5+ will want to party in the game room with X-box system, karaoke, art station and more. For a 2-hour party, members pay $125; non-members pay $175. Outdoor parties in the water park, available seasonally, include1 hour of water park play and 1 hour in the party room for 1-20 guests. For non-private parties, members pay $250 and non-members pay $300. Rent the water park for a 2-hour private party: Members pay $300; non-members pay $350. Whether celebrating indoors or out, parents supply cake, food and drinks. Family Y—Wilson Branch www.thefamilyy.org. sfeist@thefamilyy.org. 706-922-9615. 3570 Wheeler Rd., Augusta. Fees for 2-hour Clubhouse or Family Adventure Center Parties are $200 for members, $250 for nonmembers for up to 21 children. Additional children are $5 each. Parent supplies cake and ice cream. CLUBHOUSE PARTIES WITH PLAY IN THE TWO-STORY TREE HOUSE INCLUDE:

• • • •

Birthday games upon request. Inﬂatable fun. 2 party assistants. Invitations.

FAMILY ADVENTURE CENTER PARTIES INCLUDE:

• Rock-climbing wall. • Inﬂatable fun. • Tumbling area fun. • 2 party assistants. • Invitations. Family Y—Wilson Branch Indoor Pool and Water Park www.thefamilyy.org. cpinto@thefamilyy.org. 706-922-9618. 3570 Wheeler Rd., Augusta. Fees for 2-hour non-private pool parties are $100 for members, $150 for non-members. Fees for private indoor pool parties are $150 for members, $200 for non-members and last 3 hours. Outdoor water park parties are seasonal and with non-private party rates of $175 for members and $225 for non-members. Private parties in the water park are $250 for members and $300 for non-members and last 3 hours. Prices are for 51 children and each additional child is $5. Parents supply cake, ice cream and decorations. POOL AND WATER PARK PARTIES INCLUDE:

• Invitations.

• Pool time/party time in private room. • Lifeguard. • Music. Marshall Family Y www.thefamilyy.org. 706-364-3269. 1202 Town Park Lane, Evans. Children ages 3-12 can have a birthday party at the Marshall Family Y. Younger kids will enjoy the softplay room. Older kids will like the Kids Club House stocked with video games and a foosball table. Members pay $100 for 2 hours of fun with 1-25 guests. Non-members pay $125. A $25 deposit holds the party date. Parents supply cake, food and games if desired. PARTIES INCLUDE:

• 2 attendants to help set up, clean up and supervise. • A separate room for food, presents and cake. The Salvation Army Kroc Center http://salvationarmyaugusta.org/kroc-center/kidsfamily/birthday-parties/. 706-922-1533. 1833 Broad St., Augusta. Party like a Kroc star in the gym or the indoor pool. Party packages start at $225 for up to 20 guests and $300 for up to 40 guests for 2 hours. Other party options for the same price points include Movie Critic Party (2.5 hrs.) and KrocStar Dance Party. Al la carte options for an additional charge include food, beverage, themed packages and extra space. ALL PARTIES INCLUDE:

• • • • • • • •

A party master. Party room. T-shirt for birthday child. Invitations. Paper products. Lemonade. Cupcakes. 2 digital pictures.

Party fees are $200-sponsored or $225-unsponsored. Available party times are 10 a.m.-noon or 2-4 p.m. Reservations must be made in advance. Parent provides cake, food and drinks. INCLUDES:

• 4 ponies on a carousel for 1 hour (for ages 6 and under) or 4 1-hour guided trail rides (for ages 7 and up). Extra horses available for $25 each. Extra ponies available for $14 each. • Tablecloths. • Balloons and streamers. • Party room. • Picnic areas, some with grills. Graystone Ranch and Wildlife Education Center http://www.graystoneranch.com/. 706-360-0808. 1017 McManus Rd., Hephzibah. My First Pony Parties are a fantastic introduction to horsemanship for children up to age 10. Larger ponies and horses are also available. The Graystone animal experts will assist children in riding saddled ponies and horses. Other saddled animals are also available. $225 for 1 hour. Lots of party packages from which to choose. Visit their website for more details. Hidden Forrest Equestrian Center http://hiddenforrest.com/. 706-825-6216. 1333 Jackson Rd., Augusta. Pony parties for ages 4 and up with up to 8 children. Parties start at $200 and include pony rides, games, use of the entire facility and an area for cutting the cake. Parents provide cake, food, paper products and other party supplies.

Space Walk of Augusta www.herecomesfun.com. spacewalkaga@herecomesfun.com. 706-405-4577. Let them bring the party to you with many inﬂatables to choose from. Call for party information and pricing.

Almost Heaven Stables http://almostheavenstables.com/. 803-663-3001. 220 Golf Course Rd., Warrenville, S.C. Within minutes of Aiken. Staff hand-leads 2 horses in the large arena for 1 hour. Then you can stay and enjoy the picnic area for an additional 2 hours. Picnic area has covered shelter, grill, ﬁre pit, wood provided for ﬁre pit, ping pong, basketball, volleyball, horseshoes, sand box and restroom. $150.

Horse Around!

Make and Create!

Hilltop Riding Stables www.fortgordon.com. 706-791-4864. N. Range Rd., Building 508, Fort Gordon.

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Build-A-Bear Workshop www.buildabear.com. 706-736-0895. Augusta Mall, 3450 Wrightsboro Rd.

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BIRTHDAY Bashes! Each guest makes his or her own stuffed animal friend. Party pricing starts at $10 per guest. Six guest minimum. The party leader makes sure kids have fun while staying within your pre-set budget. Parties last 1-1½ hours. INCLUDES:

• • • • •

A party leader. Party photo. Gift for guest of honor. Party favor for each guest. A virtual party room for your Cub Condo® house at buildabearville.com, complete with beary special gifts to share with friends. • Printable invitations and thank you cards. Delightful Bites Cakery www.delightfulbitescakery.com. 706-294-5067. 3801 Washington Rd., Augusta. Celebrate in style at the trendy Design Studio. Party coordinators will work with you to ensure that all the details are covered so that your group will have a blast. All parties are hands-on participation and are all-inclusive.

INCLUDED WITH EVERY PARTY PACKAGE:

• Personalized invitations for your party. • 2 hosts/hostesses to ensure fun and safety for your group. • Decorating activity—Choose from several that are age-appropriate for your group. All ingredients and decorating tools needed are included. • A custom birthday cake and an assortment of drinks for the children. • All participants are provided with aprons to use during the party. • All participants will receive a small goodie bag ﬁlled with age-appropriate favors and a free cupcake card to use at the Cakery. • Coffee, tea, soda and mini-sweets for adults. Parties are designed to be drop-off events, however parents are welcome to get involved with their kids, or linger in the cozy consulting room. PARTIES FOR AGES 4 TO 2ND GRADE

1 ½ Hours, $25 per child (8 children minimum). Additional children may be accommodated at a reduced rate of $15/per child. • Choose one of the following activities: Cookie decorating, cupcake decorating, candy making, cake pops, or assembling and decorating six-inch cakes (additional $5 per child).

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PARTIES FOR AGES 10 AND UP:

1 ½ Hours, $25 per child (8 children minimum). Additional children may be accommodated at a reduced rate of $15/per child. • Choose one of the following activities: Cookie decorating, cupcake decorating, candy making, cake pops, assembling and decorating six-inch cakes (additional $5 per child) or “Cupcake Wars” (additional $5 per child). EXTENDED PARTIES FOR AGES 10 AND UP:

2 ½ hours, $50 per child (8 children minimum). • Cupcake Wars Ultimate: Teams bake and decorate their own cupcakes using secret ingredients and then present them to be judged by the hosts and your birthday child. • Or Choose Two: Cookie decorating, cupcake decorating, candy making, cake pops, assembling and decorating six-inch cakes (additional $5 per child) or “Cupcake Wars” (additional $5 per child). ADD-ONS:

• Add a princess! Your guests can enjoy the company of a beautiful princess who will interact with all guests for the length of your event. Additional $50. • Delightful Bites catered lunch or dinner (price is based on selections). • Themed parties (speciﬁc plates, napkin, cups, etc.). Additional $5 per child.

• • • • •

Frosting, decorating supplies and garnishes. Caprisun or chocolate milk for each guest. Face painting and balloons. 2 themed games facilitated by NCS. 1 “smash cake” birthday cupcake for the birthday child. • Party favor for each child.

Smocks Art Parties https://www.facebook.com/pages/. Smocks/100603730037153. jennifer@smocksaugusta.com. 706-833-9696. 742 McClure Dr., Augusta. A Smocks art party is a unique way to celebrate your child! Choose your favorite artwork from their collection, and let Smocks take care of all of the planning, prep, entertaining and clean up while your child and their closest friends have a blast creating their own painting (the ultimate party favor!). Parents provide cake & beverages. Birthday parties are scheduled on Fridays and Saturdays for children turning 6 or older and last 2 ½-3 hours. Parties are held at their home studio. PACKAGE A:

• 12x12 or 11x14 gallery wrapped canvas (2 ½-hour party) $310 for 8 children. PACKAGE B:

• 16x20 gallery wrapped canvas (3-hour party) $340 for 8 children. • Add up to 2 additional children for $20 each.

Michaels http://www.michaels.com/. 706-738-9330. 211 Robert C Daniel Pkwy. Book a party for a crafty kid and up to 10 guests. Cost is $50 plus the cost of project supplies for each child. Cost of supplies varies according to the craft project selected for the party. The party includes a decorated room, paper products and the assistance of a store associate for two hours. All the clean-up is done for you, too. Parent brings food, cake and drinks. Reserve your child’s party at least one week in advance.

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Neapolitan Cupcake & Gift Shoppe http://neapolitangifts.com. 706-814-8959. 106 Pleasant Home Rd., Le Pavilion Shopping Center, Augusta. Birthday parties are scheduled on Sundays for children turning 6 or older. Guests decorate their own cupcakes and play games. Parties last 60-90 minutes for a minimum of 6 children at $30 per child.

Artsy Me http://artsymestudio.com/. cricket.artsyme@gmail.com. 4275-B Washington Rd., Evans. 706-432-6396. Birthday parties for kids ages 5 and up with a minimum of six children for 1 ½ hours. A $40 deposit secures the date. Parents bring food, drinks and paper products.

PARTY INCLUDES:

CHOOSE FROM A VARIETY OF PARTY PACKAGES:

• Cupcake-themed invitations. • Jumbo cupcake—one per child.

www.augustafamily.com

BOTH PACKAGES INCLUDE:

Personalized party invitations. Thank you notes. Coordinating paper plates, napkins, spoons. All art supplies. Party decorations. Birthday gift (11x14 personalized canvas). Balloons. Photographs of the party. Approximately 2 hours of step-by-step instruction by owner, Jennifer Rucker. • Approx 30 minutes allotted for cake and presents.

• Artsy Party includes a ceramic plate, mug, bowl or

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BIRTHDAY Bashes! critter for each child to paint and is $15 per child. • Extra Artsy Party includes a plaque, bank or keepsake box for each child to paint and is $18 per child. • At the Canvas Celebration Party each child creates an 11×14 canvas with acrylic paints ($18 per child). An Artsy Me staff member walks each child through creating a masterpiece. • The Glass Galore Party opens the world of glass fusing while creating a 6” glass-fused sun catcher or plaque for children ages 8 and up, $20 per child. Little Dippers Painting Parties http:// sip-and-dip.com. 706-699-4449, Haley Tam. Each child creates his or her own masterpiece in a fun, step-by-step painting class. All supplies are included. Parties last 1 ½-2 hours. Birthday girl or boy may choose the painting from the gallery on the website. Ages 5 and up. Adult supervision required for children under the age of 5. Two canvas sizes available: $25/child for a 12”x16” canvas (5 person minimum) and $15/child for a 9”x12” canvas (8 person minimum). Party may be held at a location of your choice or at the MAC on Main Art Gallery in Thomson, Ga., for no extra cost.

Get in the Game! Skateland of Augusta http://www.skatelandofaugusta.com/Parties.htm. 706-798-4048. 2451 Windsor Spring Rd., Augusta. They take care of everything but the cake, with several party packages from which to choose. No charge for non-skating parents. BASIC PARTY INCLUDES ($130):

• • • • • • • • •

10 children, $8 each additional child. Ice cream cup for each child. Unlimited soda. Birthday child receives a t-shirt, speed skate rental, free pass for future visit. Free skate rentals for guests. Party table area, paper goods, table cloth and balloons. 50 minutes in party area. Invitations. Dedicated party hostess. Parents of birthday child skate free.

HOTDOG PARTY INCLUDES ($145):

• 10 children, $9.50 each additional child. • Everything in basic party plus hotdog and small bag of chips for each guest. PIZZA PARTY INCLUDES ($155):

• 10 children, $8 each additional child. • Everything in basic party plus two large single topping pizzas.

SUPER DUPER PARTY ($260):

• 10 children, $11 each additional child. • Everything in the basic party plus two large single topping pizzas. • 10 glow products. • One pair of GTX-500 speed skates for the birthday child. AMF Masters Lanes Bowling Center www.amf.com/masterslanes. 706-733-3624. 1810 Gordon Hwy., Augusta. From food to activities, they take care of everything for you. Bumper bowling for younger children and Xtreme bowling for older kids. Minimum of 8 children. Call for pricing. Parents bring cake. INCLUDES:

• • • • •

Food and drinks. Goodie bags. Invitations. Bowling balls and shoes. Some packages include souvenir bowling pin for guests to sign for the birthday child.

Augusta Aquatics Center http://www.augustaga.gov. 706-261-0424. 3157 Damascus Rd., Augusta. Parties are held on Saturdays from 10 a.m.noon for children ages 12 and under. $150 fee includes admission for up to 20 swimmers. Call to make reservations. INCLUDES:

• • • • •

Party room. Beverages. Paper products. Goodie bags. Display board message for birthday child.

Premiere Martial Arts www.hensleypma.com. 803-640-8443. 401 West Martintown Rd., North Augusta. Be a black belt for the day. Break a board in front of your friends. Cut your cake with a real sword. Parties last 1 ½ hours and start at $99 (plus $25 for the teacher) for the basic option and $299 for the Premiere party option. INCLUDES:

• 30-minute martial arts class. • Games. • Martial arts instructor (plus a party host for the Premiere party). • Premiere party includes decorations, cake, pizza, drinks and cleanup.

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Augusta GreenJackets www.greenjacketsbaseball.com. alaurendi@greenjacketsbaseball.com. 706-736-7889. Lake Olmstead Stadium, 78 Milledge Rd., Augusta. Watch the game and celebrate together. $15 per person. Season starts in mid-April. INCLUDES:

• • • • • • •

Reserved tickets. Augusta GreenJackets visor for each guest. Food vouchers (good for hot dog, chips and soda). Autographed baseball for the birthday child. Free Admission to the Fun Zone. Table in the Fun Zone for food and cake. Sing Happy Birthday on the dugout.

Augusta Ice Sports Center www.augustaicesports.com. 706-955-5946. 1249 Augusta West Pkwy, Augusta. The “coolest” party place in town. Select from Augusta Ice Sports Center’s party packages or design your own. The Bronze Package is $95 for up to 10 guests. The Silver Package is $165 for up to 20 guests. The Gold Package is $245 for up to 30 guests. Add $10 for each additional guest. Parties can be scheduled during any public session. Parents bring cake, ice cream and decorations. PACKAGES INCLUDE:

• • • •

Party room(s). Admission and skate rental. Choice of hot dogs or pizza with soft drink. Paper products.

Gymnastics Gold www.gymnasticsgold.com. 706-650-2111. 124 Cedar Ln., Augusta. Kids enjoy age-appropriate games using a variety of gymnastics equipment. Party packages for up to 20 children are $150 for members, $175 for non-members. Additional fees for additional children. Parties last 1 ½ hours and are held Friday nights and Saturdays. Two trained instructors supervise. Make reservations at least two weeks in advance. INCLUDES:

• • • • • •

Party area. Drinks. Balloons. Invitations. T-shirt for the birthday child. Cleanup.

Haydens Gymnastics and Cheer Academy www.haydensgym.com. 706-868-0608.

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BIRTHDAY Bashes! 4300 Evans to Lock Rd., Evans. The Hayden’s birthday experience for up to 10 children begins with games in the gym, followed by an obstacle course and time on the trampoline and in the pit. Trained coaches supervise. Parties last 90 minutes for $250. Additional half hour of gym time can be scheduled for $50. Parent supplies food, cake and paper products. Pay $5 for each additional guest. Pool parties may be scheduled during summer months.

Southern Tang Soo Do Martial Arts Studio www.stsdkarate.com. 706-793-6603. 2007 Tabacco Rd., Augusta. Two-hour parties cost $225 for up to 12 children. Additional children are $8.50 each. Parents are welcome to bring food and snacks. A CD with party pictures is available for $15.00.

INCLUDES:

• • • • • • • •

• • • • • • •

Professional instructors. Set up and clean up. Invitations. Table decorations. Goody bags. Balloon for each guest. Special gift for birthday child.

Putt-Putt Fun Center http://www.augustagabirthdayparties.com/. 3763 Martinez Blvd., Martinez. 706-868-0083. Birthday party packages range from $9.99 per person to $14.99 per person. Kids can participate in activities including laser tag, the game room and batting cages, in addition to playing putt-putt. ALL PACKAGES INCLUDE:

• • • • • • • • • •

1 attraction of your choice. 15 gameroom tokens. Indoor total play (soft play area). 1 Hour in a private party room. Dippin’ Dots ice cream or substitute a birthday cake. Unlimited soft drinks while in the party room. Party invitations and paper goods. Birthdaygift for thehonoree. Group party photo. Party supervisor.

Red Wing Rollerway www.redwingrollerway.net. 706-860-1548. 3065 Washington Rd., Augusta. Open session parties start at $195 for up to 10 guests and 2-hour private parties are $325 for up to 20 guests. The birthday child participates for free in both packages and additional guests are $7 each. INCLUDES:

• • • • • • • •

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DJ. Games. Skates. Invitations. Balloons. Soft drink, hot dogs, chips and cake. Paper products. T-shirt for birthday child.

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INCLUDES:

Karate-themed invitations and thank you notes. Karate uniform for the birthday child. Martial arts headbands for each child. A balloon for each child. Party tables with karate theme. Paper products. Cake and ice cream. Goodie bags with VIP pass for a free karate class for each participating child.

Eats and Treats! Stevi B’s http://www.stevibs.com. 706-863-2021. 212 Bobby Jones Expressway, Augusta. The perfect combination of pizza, games and fun. Three party packages to choose from starting at $5.99 per child, with an 8-child minimum. Parties must be scheduled in advance. ALL PARTIES INCLUDE:

• • • • • •

All-you-can-eat pizza buffet. All-you-can-eat salad bar. All-you-can-eat dessert pizza. Drinks with unlimited reﬁlls. Balloons on the table. Game tokens for each child.

Chuck E Cheese http://www.chuckecheese.com. 706-737-4557. 3435 Wrightsboro Rd., Augusta. Plan a birthday party with pizza and games or organize your own walk-in party without reserving a party package. On-line party reservations are available as well as e-vites. Choose from the Star package for $11.99 per child, the Super Star package for $16.99 per child or the Mega Super Star package for $21.99 per child. Minimum of 4 children. ALL PACKAGES INCLUDE:

• • • • • •

2 hours of reserved table space. Ticket Blaster experience for the birthday child. Inﬂatable crown for the birthday child. Star recognition in the show. Game tokens for each child. Free reﬁlls on drinks.

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BIRTHDAY Bashes! • Pizza. • Party host or hostess. • Festive tablecloth and plates. Bruster’s Real Ice Cream http://realicecream.com. 1115 Agerton Lane, Augusta, 706-731-9929. 516 North Belair Rd., Evans, 706-210-5160. Outdoor parties during store hours at Bruster’s are $125 for up to 20 people (2 hours). Please inquire about prices for ice cream catering for off-site parties. Packages available for Augusta and Evans locations only. INCLUDES:

• • • • • •

Bruster’s ice cream cake. Nathan’s Famous hot dogs, chips and lemonade. Balloons. Paper products. Set-up and cleanup. A birthday message on the reader board.

Dippin’ Dots http://www.dippindots.com. 706-364-3476. 3328 Washington Rd., Augusta. What kid isn’t crazy about hotdogs and ice cream? Choose from one of ﬁve party packages starting at $5 per person. Parent can supply cake or order a Dippin’ Dots cake for an additional charge. They will even open to host parties before regular store hours upon request. Take-home party packs are available by pre-order. Call for details. The Pink Dipper 803-279-4100. 501 Georgia Ave., North Augusta. Rent their party room by the hour ($25).

Build Their Brains! Bricks 4 Kidz http://www.bricks4kidz.com. 706-513-5789. Two hours of non-stop fun with Lego® bricks. Kids ages 4 and up will love a Bricks 4 Kidz party. Basic birthday package starts at $185 and includes invitations, paper products, drinks, a Bricks 4 Kidz t-shirt and awesome party host! Builder Birthday package starts at $240 and includes many other extras in addition to the basic package such as pizza, mini-ﬁgures and mini-models for kids to take home. Parents bring the cake. PARTIES INCLUDE:

• Party host. • Invitations.

• • • • •

Lots of games & challenges. Free-play time. Paper products. Bricks 4 Kidz® t-shirt for birthday child. Drinks.

EdVenture Children’s Museum http://www.edventure.org/. 803-400-1168. Gervais St., Columbia. Throw Eddie’s Big Birthday Bash for $184-$207 for members, $230 for non-members for up to 15 guests (2 hours). Additional guests are $15 each. All adults are admitted for no additional charge. Parent brings cake and ice cream and other food. Party addons available for additional charge. INCLUDES:

• Birthday parade led by an EdVenture Birthday Buddy. • Party room for 2 hours. • Special birthday ceremony in front of Eddie®. • All-day admission for party guests. • Ready-to-mail invitations. • T-shirt for birthday child.

Adventures Outside! Augusta Canal Interpretive Center www.augustacanal.com. 706-823-0440, ext. 7. 1405 Greene St., Augusta. Charter a Petersburg boat for up to 36 guests for $300 per boat for 1 hour, $500 for a 3-hour trip to the Headgates and back. Bring refreshments of your choice. You also can book your party at the Canal’s Interpretive Center. Steed’s Dairy http://www.steedsdairy.com. 706-564-0220. 4635 Wrightsboro Rd., Grovetown. Birthday party activities on the farm include petting zoo, jumping pillow, giant tube slide, corn kernel pit, tube swings, rubber duckie races and more. The pavilion rents for $100. Cost per person is $4 except during corn maze season when it is $6 per person. Parent brings cake, ice cream and other party supplies. Mistletoe State Park www.mistletoe.park@dnr.state.ga.us. 706-541-0321. 3725 Mistletoe Rd., Appling. A variety of birthday party packages are available featuring ranger-led programs and activities. Program

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themes vary from lake ecology to carnival games. PACKAGES INCLUDE:

• A 2-hour ranger-led program. • Picnic shelter rental. • Nature craft. • 5 park passes. • Party decorations. ADDITIONAL OPTIONS INCLUDE:

• Souviner bags. • A state park-themed birthday cake. • A t-shirt for the birthday child. • A second ranger-led program. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park http://naturalsciencesacademy.org/ 706-828-2109. 1858 Lock and Dam Rd., Augusta. The Pﬁzer Pavilion is a covered picnic area that can be reserved for a donation of $100 with a $50 refundable deposit. The Pavilion has electricity and nine eight-foot tables with seating for 60-70 guests. Reserve a private tour for an additional fee as part of your party of 10+ guests. Call ahead to reserve the Pavilion or a tour. Reed Creek Park and Wetland Interpretive Center www.ReedCreekPark.com. 706-210-4027. 3820 Park Lane, Martinez. Birthday parties for children ages 5 and up take the party to nature and the great outdoors with guided activities. Parties last 90 minutes. Cost for members is $150 for up to 10 children plus $6 for each additional child. Cost for non-members is $200 for up to 10 children plus $7 for each additional child. There is a 14-child maximum. Full payment must be received two weeks in advance of the party date. INCLUDES:

• • • • • • • •

Nature games and activities. Paper products. Decorations. Cake and drinks. Invitations. Balloons. Goody bags. T-shirt and Reed Creek frog mascot for the birthday child.

Roll That Clip! Regal Cinemas Augusta www.regmovies.com. 706-667-9713. 1144 Agerton Lane, Augusta.

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BIRTHDAY Bashes! Make your birthday child (ages 3-11) a “Star For a Day” with their own party at the movies. Call for pricing. Adults responsible for their own admission. The party room is available at an additional charge either before or after the movie. Party room rental includes paper products and beverages. MOVIE PARTY INCLUDES:

• • • •

Admission. Reserved seating. Game tokens. Zap Pack.

The Salvation Army Kroc Center http://salvationarmyaugusta.org/kroc-center/kidsfamily/birthday-parties/. 706-922-1533. 1833 Broad St., Augusta. The Movie Critic Party is a 2 ½-hour party that includes a rated G or PG movie of your choice (pending approval from our movie provider), popcorn for each attendee and up to one hour in the party room after the movie (time is based on length of movie). Party packages start at $225 for up to 20 guests and $300 for up to 40 guests for 2 hours. ALL PARTIES INCLUDE:

• • • • • • • •

A party master. Party room. T-shirt for birthday child. Invitations. Paper products. Lemonade. Cupcakes. Two digital pictures.

Go High Tech! The Game Dudes http://www.thegamedudes.com/. 855-301-3833. The Game Dudes bring their 24-foot gaming vehicle to the party for 2 full hours of fun. It’s a 12-seat, air-conditioned indoor gaming theater. The exterior converts to accommodate 8 additional players. For an additional charge, they will set up an inﬂatable slide or get out the laser tag gear. Rolling Video Games 706-830-4389. http://RollingVideoGames.com. rvgaugusta@aol.com. They set up, entertain and clean up! Packages start at $199 for a 1-hour party with the Game Coach. A 2-hour party with the Game Coach, 30 full color invitations and cake is $299 and a 2-hour party with the

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Game Coach Monday-Thursday is $225. INCLUDES:

• A Game Coach who serves as an on-site tech that assists with playing the games and encourages fun and balanced play for guests. • Game Truck and trailer come rain or shine. A fairly level parking area is needed. • Xbox 360 stations, Wii stations and PS3stations allow 16 gamers to game at once or separately. • Vibration-rocking stadium seating allows more observers and friends. • Tons of game choices available, including the newest released titles. • A ﬂashing, glowing power necklace medallion for the guest(s) of honor. Level Up Game Center http://www.level-up-augusta.com/parties. 706-305-3780. 3837 Martinez Blvd., Augusta. Three party options from which to choose. Kids 12 and up can plan an all-night party event for $20 per guest. Food and tournaments for prizes are included. A second party option is a private rental with packages starting at $100 per hour. Parents supply the food. The third party option is for less than 10 guests during regular store hours beginning at $3 per person per hour. Parent supplies cake and food.

Bring in the Clowns (and other entertainment)!

The Clubhouse Kids Puppet Theater http://mjohnpuppetman.wix.com/theclubhousekids. 706-951-7938. 350 Marshall St., Martinez. Party packages that include either a ventriloquist or puppet show or both, plus a comedy magic show, start at $100 for one hour for 40 guests. Acme Fun Factory http://www.jinglesandcrew.com/. 706-294-5910 or 803-652-8335. Schedule clowns Jingles and JJ to entertain at your child’s next birthday party, bring in Mr. Magic to perform or surprise your child with a visit from his or her favorite superhero or character. One entertainer is $150 per hour. Add an additional entertainer for just $60 per hour. Acme Fun Factory also rents a variety of inﬂatables, concession equipment (such as sno-cone and cotton candy machines) and tables and chairs. Parties Go LIVE http://www.partiesgolive.com. 706-394-7782.

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Specializing in children’s birthday parties, they bring the fun to your chosen location or you can rent a costume so your child’s favorite character can make a party appearance. Face painting packages start at $65 for one hour. Balloon twisting for $40 per hour. You can also order up glitter tattoo ($110/hr for 12-15 children) or hair-bling ($85/hr for 12-15 children) party packages or get a package that includes both. Vintage Ooollee 706-724-2591. 1121 Broad St., Augusta. Let mom or dad pose as a friendly character surprise party guest. Costumes include a kitty, Teddy bears, bunny rabbits, puppy dogs and more. Come in a week before rental date and get ﬁtted. Rentals start at $50 with a $50 security deposit. Uncle Sam’s Magic Show Sam Harden, Jr. http://www.unclesamsmagicshow.com/. 706-945-2053. 1909 Ohio Ave., Augusta. Enjoy good clean fun and magic performed by Uncle Sam. He mixes magic with storytelling to entertain his audience and is an expert balloon twister, as well. Pricing starts at $175. Call for details. Singing Princesses http://singingprincessesga.weebly.com/. Email: singingprincesses@yahoo.com. The Singing Princesses can help make your little princess’s dreams come to life even if just for a day! Dressed as fairy tale princesses, these professionally trained vocalists provide exciting entertainment for any event in the CSRA. Choose the venue and the party package of choice, then relax and take photos as a magical and enchanting day is experienced by all. Each party package includes singing, a princess dance lesson, fairy dust and a discussion of manners and true beauty. The birthday princess will receive a Singing Princess necklace. Additionally, crafts, games, manicures, makeovers, face painting, costume dress up, tiaras or knight helmets and treat bags may be included. Please visit the Facebook and web page for party details and terms. The most popular event is the “Pretty as a Princess Party” for $150. Travel fees may apply outside the radius of Evans, Ga. Party Guide information provided by the organizations listed or appear as listed on their website and may change without notice to Augusta Family Magazine. This Party Guide will be archived at www.augustafamily.com.

Best

BIRTHDAY Bashes!

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timeout by Deanne Haines

Sochi 2014

Fascinating Facts About the 2014 Winter Olympic Games

ooking for family friendly television to watch this February? Beginning February 7 and running through February 23, the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia, offers exciting educational elements for the whole family. Gear up for the Games by discovering unusual, historical, motivating and entertaining Olympic facts. To help you get started, read this list of little-known Sochi Olympic trivia. Grab your kids and settle in for what promises to be a thrilling two weeks of television.

Sochi stores snow a year ahead of time.

Sochi, Russia—host city of the 2014 Winter Olympics—is a resort town known for its mild winters located on the Black Sea about 1,000 miles south of Moscow. Officials there stored up 16 million cubic feet of snow in case the region experiences unusually warm temperatures during the Olympics. They protected the snow with special insulating tarps to prevent the powdery

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white flakes from melting during the summer. And just in case more snow is needed, they invested in a gigantic snowmaking system complete with 115,000 feet of piping feeding water to 450 snowmaking stations.

Olympic Torch rockets into space.

The Sochi 2014 Olympic Torch was sent by rocket to the International Space Station, where on Nov. 9, 2013, Russian cosmonauts performed the first ever spacewalk of the Olympic Torch. The torch was never lit while in space for safety reasons, but that same torch will be used to light the Olympic flame at the start of the 2014 Winter Games on February 7.

Costliest Olympics puts Sochi in record books.

It’s reported that the city of Sochi spent more than $50 billion preparing for the Olympics—making it the most expensive Olympics ever. Construc-

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tion projects include building 11 new sports venues, a grand plaza, a new international airport terminal, numerous hotels and apartments, new bridges, a multi-tunnel highway and railway station. One ski jump alone cost the city $265 million!

Hockey rivals USA and Russia take to the ice.

On Saturday, Feb.15, the U.S. Men’s hockey team competes against Russia. Use this matchup as a chance to explain to your kids the exciting victory commonly called, “The Miracle on Ice.” America’s win on Feb. 22, 1980, in Lake Placid, N.Y. against the dominant Soviet team is often thought of as the greatest sports moment of the century.

Ice sweeping helps the curling stone travel farther and straighter.

To someone unfamiliar with the sport of curling—where two teams slide granite stones down a

timeout

long stretch of ice toward a target area—it may look unusual as the sweeper uses a broom to frantically sweep ahead of the stone. There’s good reason for the effort, though. Sweeping actually warms the ice and reduces friction causing the stone to travel farther and straighter. The goal is to have your stones closer to the target than your opponent.

The number of medals needed to break the record for most career Winter Olympic medals.

Norwegian biathlete Ole Einar Bjoerndalen, age 40, has a total of 11 Olympic medals—six gold, four silver and one bronze. He only needs two more to surpass the record for most medals won in the Winter Olympics currently held by Norwegian cross-country skier, Bjorn Daehlie. Bjoerndalen competes in the biathlon which entails skiing a certain distance before stopping to shoot at five targets.

The number of times Americans have participated in the Olympic Games in Russia.

This is not the first Olympics to be held in Russia—they hosted the 1980 Summer Olympic Games in Moscow—but this will be the first time Americans participate in a Russian Olympics. The United States boycotted the 1980 Olympics to protest a Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. The U.S. was one of 65 nations refusing to participate in the games.

The first Winter Olympics featuring men’s and women’s ski halfpipe, women’s ski jumping, biathlon mixed relay, a new figure skating team event and luge team relay.

The International Olympic Committee added new events to the Winter Olympics this year, making it the largest Winter Games. The new events—some taken directly from the X Games—are expected to bring more excitement and a younger feel to the Games.

The age at which U.S. hockey player, Brianna Decker, started playing hockey.

By the time Wisconsin native, Brianna Decker was in the 5th grade, she had already been playing hockey for six years. So, she knew what she was talking about when she boldly told her 5th grade teacher that she would play for the U.S. Women’s Hockey team in the Olympics someday. Well, that “someday” is now, and she’s proof that if you set your mind on something and work hard at it you can achieve your goals. What a great lesson to teach your children as you uncover interesting Olympic facts and prepare them for the history-making they’ll witness during the 2014 Winter Olympic Games. Deanne Haines is a freelance writer and mother of three. She enjoys writing about the pleasures and perplexities of parenting and is a frequent contributor to parenting publications. Find out more at DeanneHaines.com.

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inspirationstation by Danielle Wong Moores

'PSNFS /#" CBTLFUCBMM QMBZFS 8JMMJBN "WFSZ DBNF IPNF UP "VHVTUB UP XPSL XJUI DIJMESFO JO IJT PME OFJHICPSIPPE BOE UISPVHIPVU UIF $43"

Basketball and Beyond Augusta Athlete Returns To His Roots To Be a Mentor, Role Model

rowing up in the Sand Hills neighborhood of Augusta, Will Avery didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have muchâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but he had basketball. He was only 6 years old when he started playing with a bunch of kids from the neighborhood. The slap of tennis shoes on concrete, the swoosh of the ball as it went through the rim, the sighing of the wind in the trees surrounding the park on Wheeler Road where they playedâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;he still remembers it all. He remembers too being one of many talented young players from Sand Hillsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but one of the only ones to make it. Avery has played professional basketball both here in the U.S. and abroad. In many peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s minds, that would have been the apex of their careers. But Avery always had a bigger goal in mind: to come back to Augusta and work with other talented kids like him, who might otherwise not have a mentor or role model to help them get a good education and build a better life.

Making It Big Averyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s talent on the court shone throughout his

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high school career. After three years at Westside High School, he finished with a record of 92 wins (including 52 straight wins) and only eight lossesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and during that time, he also helped take his team to the final four three times, including winning the state championship one year. He spent his senior year at Oak Hill Academy in Virginia, one of the top basketball programs in the country. All that time, Duke University was callingâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;inviting Avery to become a Blue Devil and be among the nationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top collegiate teams. The Duke experience, he says, was amazing. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The neighborhood I grew up in, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not everyday that you see people going to college,â&#x20AC;? he says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And, Duke basketball I think is second to noneâ&#x20AC;ŚItâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a great atmosphere to be in, both on and off the courtâ&#x20AC;ŚAnd itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s even more fantastic, being part of that Duke family, now that Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve moved on.â&#x20AC;? During his sophomore year, he averaged 15 points and 5 assistsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;and his team won an ACC championship before heading to the final four and losing the national championship against his former high school teammate (also from Sand Hills), Ricky Moore, who was playing for the University of Connecticut.

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Life sped up then. He entered the NBA draft that year as the 14th overall pick, signing with the Minnesota Timberwolves. The three years he spent as an NBA basketball player were an eye-opening experience for the 19-year-old. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The NBA is a business first, then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s basketball,â&#x20AC;? he says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I was more frustrated because I wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t playing as much as I felt I should or wanted to. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s what happens when you have older guys on your team whoâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been around longer than you have.â&#x20AC;? So after three years, Avery decided to take his chances overseas. He spent nine years playing for various teams in Europe, living in Spain, France, Greece, Israel, the Ukraine, Turkey and Poland. â&#x20AC;&#x153;It got back to basketball being fun,â&#x20AC;? he says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Then I got to see the world.â&#x20AC;? Still, every summer, he would come back home to Augusta. By the time he was in his early 30s, with a growing familyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;his wife Chastity and daughters Yasmine and Autumnâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;it was time to come home, for good.

Fulfilling a Dream For the past two years, Avery has been doing the work he always dreamed aboutâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;working with

inspirationstation kids. Together with another high school friend and basketball player, Chad Cook, Avery coaches middle school basketball players with the Greater Augusta Independent School Eagles, a nationally ranked team made up of home-schooled kids. He also has the opportunity to offer tutoring and teaches classes in math, English and history as part of the program. “I was already doing stuff with kids,” explains Avery. “When Chad asked me if I would be interested in coming on board and being a part of what they’re doing, once I found out more information, I thought it was a great thing they were doing, as far as helping kids with their education and also providing a place where they can play sports.” Being a mentor—especially to kids from his old neighborhood—is also important to him. “We didn’t have those people to inspire us to make us want to do really good things like attend college and go on and do well in life,” he says. “So I wanted to be that person that came back and inspired kids and helped them have a better life.” Last Thanksgiving, he offered a Hoops for Hunger basketball clinic for local kids, where the entry

fee was 10 canned goods, which would go toward the Sand Hills Community Center’s Thanksgiving meal. The clinic hosted 90 children, whose 900 canned goods helped feed 75 at Thanksgiving. The question he most often gets from his kids is this: How can they make it? His answer is always the same: Even if you do make it, the most important thing is to concentrate on your education. “That’s my main message to them, ‘Enjoy this game, chase the dream, but catch an education,’” he says. “When you’re growing up and into sports, everybody just tells you how good you are. They never really talk to you about real life. They never tell you even if you’re good, you’ll only be doing this for 10 or 12 years, then you’re going to be 30 years old and you’ve gotta do something else with your life.” Today, Avery doesn’t hit the courts much—just every once in a while with the kids he coaches. “I’m good with that,” he says. Or he’s on the sidelines. His daughter, Yasmine, is playing basketball at Riverside Middle School. “Eight wins and only one loss,” says the proud father. “My daughter always jokes with me—she says I’m old—she challenges me to play all the time. That’s

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how that works,” he adds with a chuckle. Even though his name and face still come up every so often in conversation or even on old basketball cards, for Will Avery, this is real life. “I really want to start some sort of mentorship program where these kids can just see me in person a couple times a week, so they can see someone that grew up in the same environment, the same neighborhood they’re in, doing positive things…If I can help one kid, that makes me feel good. If I can keep one kid from going down another path where it might lead to trouble, I feel good about that. I know you can’t save them all, but you just hope to help one and hopefully it has a domino effect on the rest of them.” To read Will Avery’s blog and to keep in touch on his plans to start a mentor program, visit augustabasketball.com. Danielle Wong Moores is an Augusta freelance writer and frequent contributor to Augusta Family Magazine, Augusta Magazine and The Augusta Chronicle.

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calendar Feb. 2014

The Circus Is Coming To Town 3JOHMJOH #SPT BOE #BSOVN #BJMFZ 1SFTFOUT 4VQFS $JSDVT )FSPFT heads to the James Brown Arena February 7-9. This action-packed super circus is filled with superhuman athleticism, power and pageantry that will have children of all ages discovering their own superhuman strength. Amazing elephants, horses, camels and more alongside astonishing acrobats, awe-inspiring aerialists and some over-the-top clowns. 'FCSVBSZ BU Q N 'FC BU B N BOE Q N 'FC BU B N Q N BOE Q N BOE 'FC BU BOE Q N +BNFT #SPXO "SFOB (P UP XXXBVHVTUBFOUFSUBJONFOUDPNQMFY DPN PS DBMM

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calendar SPECIAL EVENTS February 1. Cognitive Exercise Pilot Program Information Session. Westminster Schools of Augusta is offering a pilot program for dyslexic and learningchallenged students. Parents of middle-school aged students and others interested in learning about the program are invited to attend. 1 p.m. at Westminster Schools of Augusta, 3067 Wheeler Rd., Augusta, Building 500. Contact Craig Johnson at cjohnson@ wsa.net or 706-731-5260 ext. 2320. February 1-2. Antiques in the Heart of Aiken. Fine antiques, lace and linens, silver, porcelain, paintings and prints, crystal, jewelry, rugs and furnishings. Experts evaluate and provide free estimates of your broken or damaged treasures. Aiken Center for the Arts. 803-641-9094. February 1. Eighth Annual Lucy Craft Laney Heritage Gala. Dinner, live music, silent auction and keynote speaker Zena K. Howard. Howard has led many award-winning projects including the Smithsonian Institution’s National Museum of African American History and Culture and the International Civil Rights Center and Museum. 6-10 p.m. Augusta Convention Center. 706-724-3576. February 4 & 5. From Entitlement to Empowerment. The Episcopal Day School Parent Resources Committee presents guest speaker Kay Wyma, author of Cleaning House: A Mom's Twelve Month Experiment to Rid Her Home of Youth Entitlement at two sessions: Feb. 4 at 6:30 p.m. and Feb. 5 at 8:30 a.m. in the Church of the Good Shepherd Parish Hall. Free and open to the public. February 6-9. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Super Circus Heroes. The whole crew of elephants, aerialists, acrobats, jugglers and clowns storm the James Brown Arena to entertain children of all ages. Feb. 6, 7 p.m. Feb. 7, 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Feb. 8, 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Feb. 9, 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. February 7. Etta May. Etta May won the prestigious American Comedy Awards’ “Stand-Up Comic of the Year” and has appeared on Oprah, Comic Strip Live, MTV and as a guest commentator on CBS Sunday Morning. 7:30 p.m. Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center. 706-726-0366. February 8. Wet Paint Party and Sale. Beautiful and affordable art by local artists goes up for grabs at the Greater Augusta Arts Council’s annual Wet Paint Party. Fashion and hair show, delicious appetizers, a cash bar and two art auctions, each with its own twist. 7 p.m. Julian Smith Casino. 706-826-4702. February 8. Historic Augusta’s House Fair. This educational event is for homeowners seeking infor-

mation about maintaining and restoring their historic and older homes. Lamar House. 415 Seventh St. For tickets and information call at 706-724-0436. February 8. Heart Ball 2014. Live entertainment, a gourmet dinner and live and silent auctions. Benefits the American Heart Association’s mission of building healthier lives free of cardiovascular disease. Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center. 803-8063063. csraheartball@heart.org. February 15. Senior Girl Scout Day. Join the Morris Museum of Art for a fun-filled morning and earn your Legacy Artist badge by taking a tour of the museum’s collection, learning about different types of collage and creating your own artwork. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Morris Museum of Art. Pre-registration required by February 12. 706-828-3867. February 15. Urban Bush Women. Founded in 1984 by choreographer Jawole Willa Jo Zollar, Urban Bush Women brings the untold and under-told histories and stories of disenfranchised people to light through dance. GRU Lyceum Series event. 7:30 p.m. Maxwell Theatre. GRU Summerville campus. 706-667-4100. February 21-23. Augusta Home and Garden Show. Turn your home and garden dreams into reality. Thousands of square feet of exhibits of the latest in products and services. Feb. 21, 2-7 p.m. Feb. 22, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Feb. 23, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. James Brown Arena. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. February 22. Third Annual Reid on the Run. This fundraiser run has a goal of raising $15,000 for University Hospital's Breast Health Center and Reid Memorial's Children's Ministry in honor of Sterling Ivey, a local wife, mother of three and breast cancer patient. Registration begins at 8:30 a.m. The events include a one-mile fun run/walk followed by a 5K run. A family breakfast and fun activities also are included in the event. To register go to www.reidchurchaugusta.com or call 706-733-2275.

Jeans. Goodwill’s mission is brought to life through a celebration of reinvention. Event features an auction of one-of-a-kind pieces that have been reinvented by local artists, decorators and designers. The evening highlights exceptional individuals who have reinvented themselves with the help of Goodwill’s education and training programs. Culinary students from Helms College create a delicious menu paired with samples of craft beers from breweries throughout the Southeast. 7 p.m. Snelling Center. 3165 Washington Rd. 706- 650-5760. February 28-March 1. Root Yourself in Reading: Third Annual Augusta Literary Festival. Featuring 50 local and regional best-selling authors who will be on hand to autograph books and discuss their craft and latest work. Author workshops on Feb. 28. Programs scheduled throughout the day on Saturday. Free to the public. Augusta Headquarters Library. Downtown. For information visit augustaliteraryfestival.org.

MUSEUM AND SCIENCE EVENTS February 5. Brown Bag History Talk: Slavery and Its Impact, 1840-1870. Presented by Dr. Bobby Donaldson, associate professor of history at the University of South Carolina. Bring a lunch, beverages provided. Refreshments are served at 11:30 a.m. Lecture, 12:30-1 p.m. Reservations not required. Augusta Museum of History. 706-722-8454. February 1. Swamp Saturday. The Southeastern National Sciences Academy’s trained volunteers lead free 2.5 mile, 1.5–2 hour hikes through the Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. Don’t miss a walk through wetlands over picturesque trails with scenic outlooks. Wear comfortable close-toed shoes and bring water to drink. No dogs are allowed on the hike. Parties larger than six please call 706-828-2109 to reserve a spot. 9:30-11:30 a.m. February 14. Valentine’s Day Full Moon Hike. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park. 706-828-2109. 9-11 p.m.

February 22-23. Battle of Aiken. See what life was like for a Civil War soldier during the 19th annual reenactment of the Battle of Aiken. The event features battle reenactments, living history exhibits, period dancing and music. Gates open at 8:30 a.m. daily. Confederate Memorial Park. 1210 Powell Pond Rd. Aiken. (Exit 18, I-20). www.battleofaiken.org.

Reed Creek Nature Park and Interpretive Center

February 22. Fifth Annual Columbia County Charity Gala. Vegas-style games, music, dinner and dancing are the order of the evening. Proceeds benefit Columbia County Cares Food Pantry, Columbia County Foundation for Children and the Columbia County Arts Development Fund. 7 p.m. Savannah Rapids Pavilion. For tickets call 706-312-7192 or etix.com. February 28. Re-New & Brew: Bowties & Blue

February 22. All About Frogs. An indoor and outdoor program to learn about local frogs and how they are being studied through a calling survey at Reed Creek. Ages 5 and up. 7-8 p.m.

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3820 Park Lane, Martinez. 706-721-4027 www.ReedCreekPark.com. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call to pre-register.

February 28. The World of Owls. Learn about owls that live in Georgia, their adaptations and their natural history. Ages 5 and up. 7-8 p.m.

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calendar THE ARTS, MUSIC AND MORE February 1. The Courtship of Señorita Florabella. A swashbuckling play with a Spanish flair. Presented by Storyland Theatre. Saturday family matinee, February 1 at 3 p.m. No reservations needed. Come meet the actors after the show. Active duty military personnel and their families admitted free with military ID. Imperial Theatre. 706-736-3455. February 1-28. The Guild of Sacred Heart Exhibition. Features the works of more than 20 Augustaarea women artists. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706- 826-4700. February 1-28. Richard Tichich. North Carolina photographer Richard Tichich has traveled to many countries, capturing images that introduce the viewer to an interesting facet of each. Exhibition features work from several photographic series, including images of the French Foreign Legion, the tango in Buenos Aires, Italian priests, Tibetan monks and more. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art. 706-722-5495. February 7. An Evening With the Gaither Vocal Band. 7 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. February 8. Tony Howard’s Motown & Elvis Review. Keeping the legends alive with the sounds that have transcended time, this Las Vegas-style show pays tributes to the Temptations, Elvis, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Natalie Cole and more. Receive two free drinks with all floor seats. 7 p.m. Imperial Theatre. 706-722-8341. February 13. Winter Jam. Multi-Grammy nominated Newsboys and groundbreaking Grammy-winning rap/hip-hop recording artist Lecrae lead an all-star line-up featuring Tenth Avenue North, Plumb and Colton Dixon. Leading young evangelist Nick Hall speaks. 6 p.m. James Brown Arena. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. February 13. University Health Care System Pops! at the Bell: Melissa Manchester. Grammy Awardwinning and Oscar-nominated musician and singer, Manchester brings her exceptional talents to Symphony Orchestra Augusta for an evening of her classic hits and diva tributes. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. 706-826-4705. February 14. Southern Soul & Song Concert Series: Rodney Crowell and Ray Wylie Hubbard. 7:30 p.m. Imperial Theatre. For tickets call 706-722-8341. February 16. Tyler Perry’s Hell Hath No Fury Like a Woman Scorned. Anita Lincoln is a very successful, modern day, single woman living in luxury. She has it all—except for the man of her dreams. A matchmaker hooks her up with Randy on the Internet and Anita is appalled when she meets him. 3 p.m. and

7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. February 17-22. Symphony Orchestra Augusta Second Annual Composer Festival: Mozart. Symphony Orchestra Augusta partners with community organizations to bring you concerts, films, lectures and children’s activities focused on Mozart. Actor Tim Marrone appears throughout the CSRA as Mozart himself. 706-826-4705. February 18. Bank of America Columbia County Music Series: Escher String Quartet. This refined string quartet has received acclaim for its individual sound, inspired artistic decisions and symbiotic blend. 7:30 p.m. Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center. 706-826-4705. February 20. Rock of Ages. In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small town girl meets a big city rocker and they fall in love in LA’s most famous rock club. A five-time 2009 Tony nominee hit musical is told through the hits of Journey, Night Ranger, Styx, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Poison, Asia, Whitesnake and many more. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.broadwayinaugusta.com. February 20. Niki Haris. The jazz vocalist performs as part of the To Soothe the Soul concert series to benefit Union Baptist Church. 7:30 p.m. Union Baptist Church. 1104 Greene St. For tickets and information call 706-724-0436 or visit www.historicaugusta.org. February 20-23. Experimental Relief. A benefit performance created by USC-Aiken students to showcase their work as playwrights, directors, actors and designers. Feb. 20-22, 7:30 p.m. Feb. 23, 2 p.m. O’Connell Theatre. USC-Aiken Etherredge Center. 803-641-3305. February 21. The Varshavsky-Shapiro Duo. Although both are currently established in the U.S., the members of this piano duo ensemble met and created their partnership in Israel while studying at the Jerusalem Rubin Academy. Since 1999 they have been awarded top prizes in many competitions and have performed all over the world. Presented by the Harry Jacobs Chamber Music Society. Maxwell Theatre. GRU campus. 7:30 p.m. 706-667-4100. February 21-23. Monty Python’s Spamalot. It’s the tale of King Arthur and his knights of the round table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail. But before they can find their grail, they’re taking a little side-trip to the fair city of Augusta. Presented by the Augusta Players. The Imperial Theatre. For tickets, www.augustaplayers.org or 706-826-4707. February 21-March 1. Sherlock Holmes. Incriminating letters written by a young European prince to the English girl he betrayed are in the hands of the

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dead girl’s sister. She is in the clutches of a nefarious man. All this, and Moriarty and Dr. Watson too. Aiken Community Playhouse Youth Wing. 803-648-1438. February 22. Magical Mozart and Macaroons. Bring your little ones to this free event where they can learn about Mozart's magical music and his playful personality. There will be an appearance by Mozart himself and an instrument petting zoo. Enjoy some French macaroons while watching an episode of the PBS series Little Amadeus. Free fun for all ages. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at the Salvation Army Kroc Center, 1833 Broad St., Augusta. www.SalvationArmyAugusta. org. February 22. Magnificent Mozart. Symphony Orchestra Augusta Symphony Series event. A delight-

UNIVERSITY HOSPITAL HEART HEALTH MONTH ACTIVITIES February 3, 11, 17 or 25. Heart Attack and Stroke Prevention Education. This class will explain some of the causes of vascular disease as well as early warning signs. Will include information about changes you can implement today to prevent heart attack and stroke. February 3 & 17 at 6 p.m. February 11 & 25 at 2 p.m. University Hospital. Registration is required. Call 706-774-5548. February 4. Bariatric Surgery and Your Heart. Excess weight is hard on hearts. Learn how this alternative approach to weight loss can improve your cardiovascular health and overall quality of life. Led by Chris Carlson, M.D. Free. Light refreshments served and reservations required. Register online at UHBariatricSurgery.eventbrite.com or call 706774-7770. 6-7:30 p.m. at the Snelling Center—Edgar's Grill, 3165 Washington Rd. February 15. Healthy Heart Fair. Free screenings and more at this free event. If you plan to have lab work done or your blood sugar checked, please fast for at least eight hours for the most accurate results. 9 a.m.-1 p.m. at Trinity on the Hill United Methodist Church, 1330 Monte Sano Ave., Wesley Hall. February 27. Smart Heart: Prevention and Screening Luncheon. Enjoy a heart-healthy lunch from 10-11 a.m. and then plaque scans (for the first 40 people on a first-come, firstserved basis the day of the event). Led by cardiologists Mac Andrew Bowman, M.D., and Keigh Sue-Ling, M.D. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Beulah Grove Baptist Church, 1434 Poplar St. Register online at SmartHeart.eventbrite.com.

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calendar ful evening filled with some of Mozart’s most beloved works. Featuring Lucinda Carver, piano. 7:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Augusta. 706-826-4705.

February 8. Black History Month Celebration. A day of art, music and drama to explore the influences of African Americans on the arts. Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

February 25. Richmond County All Elementary School Choral Festival. Elementary students from Richmond County Schools’ choral groups perform. Free and open to the public. 7 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4700.

February 13. Mommy and Me: Poems and Prints. Enjoy the haiku that inspired the artwork in the exhibition Blues Haiku. Afterwards create your own poetically inspired print. 10-11 a.m. Registration required. 706-828-3867.

February 28. Guy Davis. Updating the rural blues tradition for the modern era, Guy Davis was among the most prominent ambassadors of African-American art and culture of his generation. 7:30 p.m. Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center. 706-726-0366.

February 14. Art at Lunch: The Wanderer Project. Writer and archeologist Dr. Mark Newell discusses the Wanderer Project, which explores the connection between Congolese Africans smuggled into South Carolina on the slave ship the Wanderer in 1858 and the tradition of Southern face jug pottery. Lunch by New Moon Café. Noon. Paid reservations due February 12. 706-828-3867.

Morris Museum of Art 1 Tenth St. 706-724-7501 or www.themorris.org. February 1-March 9. King Snake Press: A 15th Anniversary Overview. The Morris Museum of Art celebrates King Snake Press with a special exhibition featuring unique prints by many of the important artists who have worked with the press and its founder Phil Garrett. February 1-March 30. Blues Haiku and New Monotypes by Phil Garrett. The seven linocuts in this exhibition refer to and honor Piedmont blues artists and their songs. February 2. Artrageous! Family Sunday: Drums-aGo-Go. Join in one big drum circle just for kids led by percussionist extraordinaire Not Gaddy. Afterward create musically inspired art. Free. 2 p.m. February 6. Art Now Artist Talks: Keliy AndersonStaley. Join photographer Keliy Anderson-Staley for a talk about the haunting images she creates using the wet-plate collodion process. Afterward enjoy music by the Ramblin’ Fevers and cocktails in the galleries. Free. 6 p.m. February 7. Films on Friday: Goodbye, Mr. Chips (1939). View this British romantic drama, directed by Sam Wood and based on James Hilton’s popular novel of the same name. Afterward, museum director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion. Participants are invited to bring a lunch. Free. Noon. February 7-8. Artist Demo: Wet-Plate Collodion Tintypes. Art Now artist Keliy Anderson-Staley demonstrates her process during an ongoing demonstration in the activity room. Free. February 7, noon–5 p.m. February 8, 10 a.m.–5 p.m. Drop in and watch, or schedule a portrait session by calling 706-828-3867. February 11. Southern Circuit Film: David. After viewing the award-winning movie, enjoy a questionand-answer session with filmmaker Joel Fendelman. Free. 6 p.m.

February 20. Exhibition Closing: The Worlds of Hunt Slonem. Join the artist as he talks about his vibrantly painted canvases. Reception follows. 6 p.m. February 22. Saturday Special: Inside Acrylics. Artist Phil Garrett introduces his new art instruction book, Inside Acrylics: Studio Secrets From Today’s Top Artists, and provides a painting demonstration. Edward Rice, one of the many artists featured in the book, will make a special appearance. Copies of the book are on sale in the Museum store. Free. 2 p.m. February 22-23. Adult Artist Workshop: Photographic Transfers. Learn two photographic transfer techniques from photographer and GRU art instructor Randy Pace. Noon-4 p.m. both days. Paid registration required by February 18. 706-828-3867. February 23. Music at the Morris: Blue Studio. Enjoy bluegrass tunes by Blue Studio. Free. 2 p.m.

SPORTS February 8. Lakeside Panther Chase 5k Race. Proceeds from the race benefit the Lisa Meitin Memorial Scholarship which provides four college scholarships to cross country runners in honor of Lisa Meitin, who died or ovarian cancer two years ago. Go to www.panther5k.com for complete details. February 15. Sleeper Recruit's Evaluation Combine. If you want to play college football, the first step is getting evaluated. High school football players from across the region are invited to participated in this event and demonstrate their skills to Sleeper Recruit and other sports recruiting services that provide content and information to college coaches. 11 a.m. at Fox Creek High School, 165 Shortcut Rd., North Augusta. For more information about Sleeper Recruit, call toll-free at 855-814-9990. February 23. GRU Augusta Half Marathon and 10K. Presented by the Augusta Sports Council. The

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Storybook Brunch Enjoy a magical morning with your favorite storybook characters on Saturday, March 1. Event includes a hearty breakfast, parade of characters and autographs and photographs. Children are encouraged to dress up as their favorite character. Advance reservations are required. First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 3500 Walton Way, Augusta. sfbf.net/Storybrunch or 706-650-2876.

event will begin and finish at Lake Olmstead Park. To register, visit www.augustahalf.org.

Augusta-Richmond County Recreation Department East Augusta, May Park, 622 4th St. 706-724-0505. South Augusta, Fleming Athletic Office, Daniel Street. 706-796-5047. West Augusta, Eisenhower Athletic Office, 488 Eisenhower Dr. 706-821-2801. February 3-28. Adult Spring Athletic Registration. Divisions: Open coed & men’s coed, men’s & women’s church, open—coed church and open—men’s industrial. Register Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. at Diamond Lakes Regional Park—Adult Complex, 109 Diamond Lakes Way. 706-771-2980. February 17-28. Youth Spring Athletic Registration. Divisions include: Coed T-ball (boys and girls ages 5 to 6); pitching machine baseball & softball (boys and girls ages 7 to 8); live pitch baseball & softball (boys and girls ages 9 to 10); Dixie Youth boys baseball (ages 11-12); Midget Girls fast pitch softball (ages 11-12); junior boys baseball (ages 13-14); junior girls fast pitch softball (ages 13-14). Register from noon6 p.m. Monday through Friday at May Park, Fleming

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calendar Athletic Office or the Eisenhower Athletic Office.

The Family Y

Columbia County Recreation Department

Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs. Register at any branch or online at www.thefamilyy.org or call 706-922-9622.

February 22. Parent’s Night Out at Wilson Family Y & Family Y of Augusta South. Enjoy a date night while your kids have fun at the Y. Ages 4-12 at the Wilson Family Y and 8 weeks to 12 years at the Family Y of Augusta South. 6-9:30 p.m.

February 1-9. Late Registration for Spring Soccer and Soccer School at the Wilson Family Y. Soccer school is for ages 3-4 with a season from March 17-May 16. Spring soccer is for ages 5-15 with a season from March 10-May 24.

February 22. Parent's Night Out for Children of Deployed Soldiers at the Marshall Family Y. Ages 2-12. Free.

5445 Columbia Road, Grovetown. 706-863-7523. February 3-14. 2014 Baseball and Softball Registration. Mail-in registration must be postmarked February 13 and online registration (for returning participants only) ends February 15. Teams available for boys and girls ages 5-12. Dixie Boys teams are available for boys ages 13 to 14. Register from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Patriots Park administrative office. Call 706-863-7523 for information.

CSRA Defensive Arts 803-221-0330 or csraDefensiveArts.com. Martial Arts Classes. Ages 8-adult. Goshinjitsu, Kindai Karate and Kobojutsu. Call for information.

Martinez Evans Little League www.mellbaseball.org February 1. Registration and Equipment Swap. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Putt Putt Golf and Games. February 8. Registration. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Dick’s Sporting Goods.

February 1-28. Registration for Men's Basketball at the Wilson Family Y. Season begins March 17. Team Captain/Coaches meeting February 25 at 6 p.m. February 3-March 9. Miracle League Baseball Registration. Miracle League is a baseball league specifically designed for youth and adults with physical and developmental disabilities. Spring season runs from April 19-June 14. Games are played on a rubberized surface field at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center on Wrightsboro Rd. February 5-March 1. Swim Team at the Wilson Family Y. Bridges the gap between swim lessons and USA Swim with specific training in endurance and stroke work. Each swimmer must be able to swim 50 yards continually in each of the following: freestyle, backstroke and breaststroke. Call for schedule.

Ongoing. Mother's Morning Out at the Family Y of North Augusta. Ages 2-4. A twice-a-week program in which children learn a basic educational curriculum and receive rotating instruction in creative arts, swimming and sports. Choose Monday and Wednesday session or Tuesday and Thursday session. 9 a.m.-noon. Call for fee information. Ongoing. Drop and Shop at the Family Y of Augusta South. No reservations needed. Monday-Friday from 8:30 a.m.-noon for ages 8 weeks through 4 years. Call for fees. Ongoing. Drop and Shop at the Family Y of North Augusta. Monday-Friday from 9 a.m.-noon for ages 6 months to 12 years. Ongoing. Tae Kwon Do at the Family Y. Ages 5 and up. Available at Family Y of Aiken County, North Augusta, Augusta South and the Wilson Family Y.

February 21. Registration Deadline-MLB Closed. February 22. Majors Try Outs. 9-11 a.m. February 23. Majors Draft. 5-7 p.m. February 28. Registration Deadline—Begin Wait List AA/Machine Pitch.

RECREATION PROGRAMS Champions Made From Adversity P.O. Box 980, Evans, Ga. 706-364-2422. www.cmfa.us This nonprofit organization strives to advance the lives of people with physical disabilities and their families through sport and leisure opportunities. Current weekly schedule: Monday—Adapted fitness at the Kroc Center, 2-4 p.m. and wheelchair basketball at Garrett Elementary School, 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday—Swimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and quad rugby at the Kroc Center, 6-8 p.m. Wednesday—Wheelchair basketball, 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday—Swimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and Adapted Fitness at the Kroc Center, 3-5 p.m. Friday—Adapted cycling at the uptown VA, 1:302:30 p.m.

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February 4-28 Wilson Family Y and Family Y of Downtown Augusta Swim Lessons. All ages and skill levels. Twice weekly classes for four weeks in the indoor pools. Call for schedule. February 8, 14 & 15. Valentine's Date Night Out. Enjoy a night out while the kids enjoy creative play, arts and crafts and character development activities. Feb. 8, ages 2-12, at the Family Y of North Augusta from 5-11 p.m. Feb. 14 & 15, ages 2-12, at the Family Y of Downtown Augusta from 4:30-9 p.m. February 15 at the Wilson Family Y, ages 4-13, from 4:30-9 p.m. Feb. 15 at the Family Y of Aiken, ages 2-12, from 5-11 p.m.

Ongoing. Preschool Art Classes at the Family Y of Aiken County. Just for toddlers, ages 3-5, and parents. Each Wednesday at 10 a.m. Children experiment with painting, gluing, sculpting and creating while developing fine motor, language and self-help skills. Each session has new activities. All supplies are provided. Parents must stay and participate with their children. 10 a.m. Ongoing. Adapted Aquatics Special Populations at the Wilson Family Y. Individual half-hour classes for physically and developmentally challenged individuals of all ages. Call Claudia Collins at 706-9229664.

February 8 & 22. Parent’s Night Out at Marshall Family Y. Fun, entertaining night for children ages 2-12. 6-9 p.m.

Ongoing. Family Y BlazeSports Team. Swim team for all ages for physically challenged swimmers to train for competition.

February 15. Parent’s Night Out at Family Y of Aiken County. Take the kids to the Y and enjoy an adult night out. Ages 2-12. 5:30-9 p.m.

Ongoing. Family Y Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson Disease Aquatics Classes. Sponsored by the CSRA Parkinson Support Group and the Family Y. Group classes designed for ambulatory participants affected by MS and Parkinson Disease. Monday and Friday at noon at the Wilson Family Y indoor pool.

February 17 & 18. School Day Out at the Family Y. Ages 5-12 from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. at the Wilson and Marshall Family Y locations. February 22. Dodgeball Tournament at the Wilson Family Y. Register your teams of six to raise funds for the Wilson Family Y Community Support Campaign.

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The Salvation Army Kroc Center 1833 Broad Street, Augusta. www.krocaugusta.org. 706-364-KROC or info@krocaugusta.org.

calendar February 1-22. Lifeguarding. The content and activities of this course prepare participants to quickly recognize and effectively respond to emergencies to prevent drownings and injuries. Ages 15 and up. 6-10 p.m. on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday or Saturday from 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

and open to members and the public. Members can reserve a spot up to a week before the event. Seating is limited and spots will be filled on a firstcome first-served basis. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Movie night begins at 6 p.m.

February 3, 10, 17 & 24. Toddler Tuesday. Ages 18 months to 5 years. Enjoy the splash area and more. One adult is free per child admission. Parent must remain with the child. 10:30 a.m.-noon.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES

February 7, 14, 21 & 28. Kroc Tots Activity Hour. Ages 18 months to 5 years. An action-packed play date for parents and toddlers featuring children’s literature, art and craft projects, and social play. A guardian must remain with the child during Kroc Tots. 9:30-10:30 a.m.

Aiken Home School Times Playgroup 803-648-7042 or fourmckeels@yahoo.com. Thursdays. This playgroup is open to all home schoolers. Meets at the O’Dell Weeks playground for unstructured play for the children and time with other home school parents for the adults. Noon.

Augusta Jewish Community Center

First Sunday of Each Month. Special Needs Night at Monkey Joe’s. This event is held the first Sunday of each month after general store hours to ensure a calm environment for special needs children and their parents. 6-7 p.m.

North Augusta Homeschool Playgroup Meets Thursdays at various North Augusta parks for play. Field trips will also be scheduled. All homeschoolers are welcome. Call 803-613-0484 or e-mail emilykohlbacher@hotmail.com.

HOSPITAL PROGRAMS Georgia Regents Health System Register online at gru.edu.

February 7. Kid's Night Out. Parents enjoy a night out by bringing your child, ages 2-12, to the Kroc Center the first Friday of each month. 6-10 p.m. Dinner is included in the fee. Activities may include swimming, gym play, inflatables and crafts. Children must be potty trained. Call for fee information.

898 Weinberger Way. 706-228-3636 or log on at augustajcc.org.

February 8. Cowboy Princess Party. Dress up like a daring cowboy or your favorite princess and enjoy breakfast, crafts and fun activities. 9 a.m.-noon. All ages.

Sign Up for Class! The AJCC offers a wide variety of classes for children of all ages and adults, including athletics, the arts, cooking, language and more. Log on to download a complete listing.

February 15. CPR & First Aid. Designed for the everyday person who wants to be prepared for emergencies. Ages 15 and up. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Call for fee information.

Classical Conversations

February 4. Autism Spectrum Disorder Support and Resource Group (The “A-Team”). Education and support for families, caregivers and friends of children with autism spectrum disorders including autism, Asperger’s and PDD NOS. 6-7 p.m. Children’s Hospital of Georgia, First Floor, Family Resource Library, Room 1801. Call Family Services Development at 706-721-5160 for more information.

www.classicalconversations.com. kelli.c.graham@att.net. Classical Conversations is a community of home educators following a Christian, classical model of education. Five locations currently serve families in the CSRA—Augusta, Evans/Grovetown, Grovetown/Martinez, North Augusta and Aiken.

February 4. Breastfeeding Class. This free class, led by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, helps expectant parents gain knowledge and support to ensure successful breastfeeding. 7-9 p.m. at the Georgia Regents Medical Center, 7th floor West, Room 7001.

February 17 & 18. Day Camp. Ages 5-12. When school is out let the kids enjoy a full day at the Kroc Center where they will play games, swim, create arts and crafts and more. Early drop-off and late pick-up are available and lunch and snack are provided in registration fee. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. February 28. Family Movie Night. This event is free

Ongoing. The Mothers Circle. Free course, resources, education and events for women of other backgrounds raising Jewish children. Call for details.

Monkey Joe’s 368 Furys Ferry Rd. 706-922-JUMP (5867). monkeyjoes.com.

www.augustafamily.com

Ongoing. Support Group for Families Who Have Lost a Baby During Pregnancy, Childbirth or Early Infancy. Call 706-721-8299 or visit their website.

February 5. Infant CPR Training. This program allows families and those caring for infants to learn the core skills of infant CPR and relief of choking. Taught by a certified instructor. Registration re-

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calendar quired. Call 706-721-9351 or to go grhealth.org/ classes. 6:30-8 p.m. Georgia Regents Medical Center, 7th Floor, Room 7001. February 6 & 19. Cribs for Kids. Co-bunking and inappropriate infant furniture are putting area babies at risk. Safe Kids Greater Augusta, led by Children's Hospital of Georgia, will teach caregivers how to provide a safe sleep environment by showing what dangers to watch out for. Families who can demonstrate a financial need (Medicare, Peachcare or WICC) will receive a portable crib, fitted sheet, sleep sac and pacifier for a small fee. Call Rene Hopkins at 706721-7606 to register. 5:45-8 p.m. on Feb. 6. 9:45 a.m.-noon on Feb. 19. Safe Kids Office, Building 1010C,1225 Walton Way. February 7 & 12. Child Safety Seat Inspections. Four out of five car seats are used incorrectly. Schedule an appointment to make sure yours is installed properly. Feb. 7 in Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call Rene Hopkins, RN, at 706-7217606 to schedule an appointment at the downtown location. Feb. 12 at Columbia County Sheriffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Office Substation, 650 Ronald Reagan Dr. Call 706541-3870 to make an appointment at the Columbia County location. February 12. Your Amazing Baby. Includes topics such as baby's first hours, making the connection, diapering and bathing, sleep and crying patterns, normal newborn characteristics, hospital routines and infant safety. Both parents are encouraged to attend. Registration required. Call 706-721-9351. 6:30-9 p.m. Georgia Regents Medical Center, Seventh Floor South, Room 7524. February 13 & 26. Car Seat Class. Safe Kids Greater Augusta offers car seat safety, education and training. Financial assistance is available to Medicaid and Peach Care eligible families. Safe Kids Office, Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call 706-7217606 to register. 5:45-8 p.m. February 22. Safe Sitter Program. Teaches 11 to 13-year-olds how to handle emergencies while caring for younger children. Call 706-721-7606 to register.

5SJOJUZ )PTQJUBM PG "VHVTUB Call Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Health Services at 706-481-7727 or visit trinityofaugusta.com for information and registration. February 4. HUG Your Baby. This class provides Help, Understanding and Guidance for young families as they prepare for the birth of their infant. 4-5 p.m. February 6, 13, 20 & 27 (Thursdays). Mommy Stretch and Tone. 5:30-6:30 p.m.

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www.augustafamily.com

calendar February 8. Saturday Express Lamaze Childbirth Education. Helps mother and support person understand the final stages of pregnancy as well as labor and the birth of your baby. Covers natural and medicated deliveries, Lamaze coping techniques and more. 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. February 8. Baby Food Basics. Learn how to make baby food at this informative session held at EarthFare, 368 Furys Ferry Rd., Martinez. 1011 a.m. February 10. Infant CPR. Learn how to respond in an emergency situation using infant mannequins and a simple step-by-step method. 6-8 p.m. February 14. Baby Care Basics and Breastfeeding. Two popular classes offered together. 9 a.m.noon. February 25. Childbirth Education 101. Learn about the signs and symptoms of labor as well as labor and delivery. 6-8:30 p.m.

University Health Care System Call 706-774-2825 or logon at www.universityhealth.org/calendar for information. Registration is required for most programs. February 3-24 (Mondays), February 4-25 (Tuesdays) or February 5-26 (Wednesdays). Prenatal Education. This multi-week series of childbirth preparation classes is designed to inform and prepare all expectant parents regardless of birth plans. Class topics include various stages of labor, breathing and relaxation and how to care for yourself and your new baby. 7-9 p.m. in the Women’s Center Third Floor Classroom. Registration required.

February 27. Introduction to Infant CPR. Do you worry about knowing how to revive your baby should the need arise? This class provides an opportunity to learn and practice infant CPR on mannequins and learn other aspects of infant safety. Space is limited, so early registration is suggested. 7-8:30 p.m.

LIBRARY AND BOOK-RELATED EVENTS Appleby Branch Library

February 8. Hands-On Learning: Creativity Can. A craft activity for kids. 11:30 a.m. February 12, 19 & 26. Wacky Wednesday Story Time. 10 a.m.

February 5, 12, 19 & 26. Toddler Story Time. 10:0510:25 a.m.

Diamond Lakes Branch Library

February 5, 12, 19 & 26. Preschool Story Time. 10:30-11 a.m. February 8. Book Signing: Sara Summerville. Sara Summerville, author of Death at the Old Mill Pond and Death of a Keynote Speaker, will be signing copies of her books and reading excerpts from her work. 1-5 p.m. February 13. Introduction to Living Well: CSRA Agency on Aging. Registration required. 10:3011:30 a.m. February 15. Family Fun Afternoon Movie. Call for title. 2:30-4 p.m. February 17. YA Program: African-American History Quiz Show. 1:30-3:30 p.m. February 18. Computer Class: Learn To Download eBooks. 10:30-11:30 a.m. February 20. Senior Golden Game Day. 10:3011:30 a.m.

February 5. Breastfeeding Support Group. Held in University's Special Care Nursery, 3rd floor. 1-2 p.m.

3450 Wrightsboro Rd. 706-737-0065.

February 20. Breastfeeding Class. This class offers indepth information on how to evaluate breastfeeding and get off to a good start. Registration is suggested. Call 706-774-2825. 7-8 p.m. at Babies R Us, 4225 Washington Rd., Evans.

February 8. Valentine's Day Story Time. Valentine's Day stories, activities and treats, featuring Love Monster by Rachel Bright. 11a.m.

2260 Walton Way. 706-736-6244.

February 4. Parents Healing Together. For parents, families and friends who have lost infants through miscarriage, death, ectopic pregnancy or stillbirth. Meets the first Monday of each month.

February 7 & 8 or 21 & 22. Childbirth Preparation Weekend Class. A complete childbirth preparation class designed for those with time constraints or fluctuating schedules. Class meets from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Saturday. Also included is a follow-up evening at the W.G. Watson, M.D., Women’s Center for a tour, question-and-answer session and review.

February 5. Black History Month Story Time. A special story time and activities, featuring Henry's Freedom Box by Ellen Levine and Kadir Nelson. 10 a.m.

Barnes and Noble Community Programs

February 1. The Elf on the Shelf: A Birthday Tradition. Enjoy a visit from the Elf, stories, activities and more. 11 a.m. February 1 & 15. NOOK 101. Stop by with your NOOK Simple Touch and learn how to shop for eBooks, get free eBook samples, lend an eBook to a friend and much more. Noon.

101 Diamond Lakes Way, Hephzibah. 706-772-2432. February 4 & 18. Young Children’s Story Time. Songs, finger plays and story readings. Best for children 0-3. Registration required for groups of six or more. 9:30-9:50 a.m. February 4 & 18. Preschool Story Time. Stories, songs, games, short movies and crafts. Best for ages 3-5. Registration required for groups of six or more. 10-10:35 a.m. February 5. Self-Esteem Seminar. A free seminar led by Tara Tanksley Stallings, a certified life coach. Registration is recommended. 6-7:45 p.m. February 11. Valentine’s Day Crafts. Drop-in to make and take Valentine’s Day crafts. All materials provided. Registration for groups of six or more begins February 3. Ages 1-11. 10-11 a.m. February 13. Your Tech, Your Way. Bring your laptop or portable device (tablet, smart phone, eReader, etc.) and receive one-on-one assistance from library staff and volunteers. Required registration begins February 3. 10 a.m.-noon. February 17. School’s Out Movie. Enjoy a movie rated G or PG on the library’s almost-big screen. Call after February 3 for the title and rating. No registration required. Bring your own snacks. 2-4 p.m. February 17. Diamond Lakes Evening Book Club. Light refreshments provided. Call for the title. 6-7:45 p.m. February 19. Game Night for Teens. Join your friends at the library for board games. Registration required and begins February 3. Ages 12-17. 5:307 p.m.

February 1 & 15. NOOK HD and HD+ 101. Explore the features of our NOOK HD devices. Learn how to save pages in your scrapbook, enjoy instant web and video and create up to six NOOK profiles for your family. Enjoy a whole new reading experience. 1 p.m.

February 25. eBooks and Georgia Download Destination. Learn how to download and enjoy eBooks from GADD on your own eReader or device with an eReader app. Participants need a general knowledge of computer and experience using Internet

www.augustafamily.com

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Special Advertising Promotion

Q&A

calendar resources. Registration is required and begins February 3. 2-4 p.m.

&WBOT #SBODI -JCSBSZ 7022 Evans Town Center Blvd. 706-863-1946. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays Toddler Class. Enjoy interactive stories and educational songs, games and crafts. 10:15 a.m. Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays. Preschool Class. Enjoy interactive stories and educational songs, games and crafts. 11 a.m. February 4, 11, 18 & 25. Baby & Me Class. 10:15 or 11 a.m. February 4. Teen Manga Club. This common interest group meets to draw, discuss and trade Manga. 4-5 p.m. February 6. After School Class. Interactive stories and educational songs, games and crafts. 4:30 p.m. February 10. Teen "Minute To Win It" Tournament. Enjoy a mini game tournament and pizza. Bring your friends so you can laugh at their antics. Registration is required by noon the day before the event. 5-6:30 p.m. February 17. Teen Photography Club. A place for teens to meet, share photography, discuss techniques and learn more about the craft. 4-5 p.m.

'SJFENBO #SBODI -JCSBSZ 1447 Jackson Rd. 706-736-6758. February 3, 10, 17 & 24 (Mondays). Intermediate Spanish Class. Instructor: Edwin A. Pérez of the Asociación Cultural Hispanoamericana. No registration necessary, just come to class. 3:30-5 p.m. February 4, 11, 18 & 25 (Tuesdays). Story Time for All Ages. Pre-registration is required for groups of six or larger. Register by calling 706-736-6758. 10-10:30 a.m. February 5, 12, 19 & 26 (Wednesdays). ESL (English as a Second Language) Class. Improve your English Skills with instructor Nell Osterman. No registration necessary, just come to class. 5:30-7:30 p.m. February 1. Kidney Smart Class. Learn about chronic kidney disease. Discussion includes: causes, medications, prevention, treatments, and related diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. Provided by DaVita Healthcare Partners. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. February 6. Black History Month: Jazz for Kids. Ms. Karen from Garden City Jazz will share the many contributions of African-American musicians to this purely American art form—jazz. Be ready to sing, clap, wiggle and shake! Preschool age and up. Groups of six or more must register in advance by calling 706-736-6758. 10-10:45 a.m. February 8. Meet the Author: Book Signing and Reading. Local author Kandyce J. Mack will present her picture book The Tooth Tickler. Books will be available for purchase. For all ages. 1:30-3:30 p.m. February 11. Special Valentine’s Day Story Time & Craft. Groups of six or more should register in advance by calling 706-736-6758. 10-10:30 a.m.

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www.augustafamily.com

calendar February 12. Kids’ Valentine’s Day Party. Games, crafts, treats and other assorted fun. Suggested for preschool-5th grade. Call to register. 5:30-7 p.m. February 13. Special Guest Author Story Time. February is National Children’s Dental Health Month. A special story time with Kandyce J. Mack, author of The Tooth Tickler. Groups of six or more should register in advance by calling 706-7366758. 10-10:30 a.m. February 15. Couponing Group. Exchange coupons, discuss money saving strategies with online and print couponing. Drop in or stay the whole time. 10 a.m.-noon. February 17. School’s Out Movie Matinee. Come by for a free family movie! Snacks are welcome in the meeting room theater only. 2:30-4 p.m. February 22. Techniques with Manga and Anime. Learn a variety of techniques with a series of classes that build upon each other (every fourth Saturday through April) in order to produce a polished finished result with artists Xavier Jones and Sheldon Eastman, of the new downtown art school A Perfect Storm. For teens and adults. Register by calling 706-736-6758. 1-4 p.m.

Headquarters Library 823 Telfair St. 706-821-2600. February 1. Let’s Paint Robots Children’s Activity. Join Leonard “Porkchop” Zimmerman for a fun painting session. 2-3 p.m. Registration is required. February 3 &10. Beginning Tango Lessons. Bring shoes that easily pivot on the floor (no rubber/plastic soles) for this fun class with Steve Neely of the Augusta Tango Club. 7-8 p.m. February 4, 11 & 25. Children’s Story Time—Ages 3 to 10. Stories, songs, games and crafts. Registration required for groups of six or more. 10-10:30 a.m. February 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20 & 26. Story Time for Tots—Ages 0-3. Music, finger rhymes and stories. Come early and stay late. 10-11 a.m. February 6. Microsoft Word 2 Class. Library card and PIN required. Call to pre-register. 10 a.m.-noon or 6:30-8:30 p.m.

February 8. Friends of the Library Book Sale. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

from 10 a.m.-noon on the 27th. Practice from 10 a.m.-noon on the 28th.

February 8, 15 & 22. Yoga for Kids. Instructor is Ame Johnson of the CSRA Vegetarian Society. 1011 a.m.

Maxwell Branch

February 8, 15 & 22. Yoga for Beginners. Instructor is Ame Johnson of the CSRA Vegetarian Society. 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

February 1, 6, 7, 8, 13, 14, 15, 20, 21, 22 & 28. AARP Tax Preparation. 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

February 8. Children’s Valentine’s Craft Day. Create a beautiful Valentine’s Day craft for your special someone. 2-3 p.m.

1927 Lumpkin Rd. 706-793-2020.

February 1. Clipping and Clicking for Savings. Couponing with Denise in partnership with Pierce United Methodist Church. 3-5 p.m. February 3 & 17. Yoga. 3-5 p.m.

February 11. Computer Class: Microsoft Word. Registration required. 10:30-11:30 a.m. February 13 & 14. Google Email Class. Library and PIN required. Call to pre-register. Class from 6:308:30 p.m. on the 13th. Practice from 10 a.m.-noon on the 14th. February 15. Children’s Movie: The Smurfs 2. Rated PG. 2-4 p.m. February 15. Marcus T. Jones Author Signing. 3-5 p.m. February 20 & 21. Internet Explorer 9/Safari Class. Library card and PIN required. Call to preregister. Class is from 10 a.m.-noon or 6:30-8:30 p.m. on the 20th. Practice is from 10 a.m.-noon on the 21st. February 20. HQ—It’s Your Book Club. IYBC will discuss Loving Mr. Wright by Brenda Barrett. 6:30-9 p.m. February 22. Dr. Kent Leslie Black History Month Program. Join Dr. Kent A. Leslie for a fascinating look at Augusta’s very own Lucy Craft Laney. Dr. Leslie is finishing up a new biography about Miss Laney, a woman whose importance is still being felt. Discover the real woman, her importance to the African-American community and little-known facts about Miss Laney’s life and legacy. 11 a.m.-1 p.m. February 22. Special Movie Showing: So You Want To Be a President? Shown in honor of Presidents’ Day. 2-3 p.m.

February 6, 13, 20 & 27. Healthy Living Demo. Led by Ame Johnson of the CSRA Vegetarian Society. 6:30-8:30 p.m.

February 25 or 26. Savannah River Archaeological Research Program. Presentation by Mark Alberton and George Wingard on Dave the Potter which includes a showing of the film Discovering Dave: A Spirit Captured in Clay. 6-7:30 p.m.

February 7. Microsoft Word 2 Practice. Library card and PIN required. Call to pre-register. 10 a.m.-noon.

February 27 & 28. Beginning Excel Class. Library card and PIN required. Call to pre-register. Class

www.augustafamily.com

February 4. Torchwood BBC Marathon. 3:30-7:30 p.m. February 5. Story Time with the Savannah River Ecology Lab. Registration required for groups of six or more. 10-10:30 a.m. February 5. Demonstration of LibraryThing and Good Reads. Presented by Branch Manager Jeff S. Stinson. 11-11:30 a.m. February 5. GALILEO for Elementary School Children. Presented by Branch Manager Jeff S. Stinson. Noon-1 p.m. February 11. Anime at Maxwell. With Ian and Nicole. Registration required. 4-6 p.m. February 12. Story Time with Eileen McCoy. Join the children’s librarian for a good time reading and interacting. Registration required for groups of six or more. 10-10:30 a.m. February 12. Valentine’s Day Craft & Games. Feel free to drop by any time between 4 and 5 p.m. to make a craft and play games. February 15. Paws for Literacy. For children who know how to read. Therapy dogs love to listen to a good book. Registration required. 3-4 p.m. February 8. Doctor Who Fan Club Meet Up. All are welcome. 3:30-7:30 p.m. February 25. Maxwell Morning Book Club. Killing Jesus: A History by Bill O’Reilly and Martin Dugard. 2-4 p.m. February 25. Life as a Writer. With Allison Silver. Registration required. 6-7:30 p.m. February 26. Story Time with Mr. Bill, His Guitar George and His Girlfriend Nancy. Celebrate the February daffodils reading, singing and laughing with Mr. Bill and friends. Reservations required for groups of six or more. 10-10:30 a.m.

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Girl GO

by Karin Calloway

Kari Baker

Multitasker

Kari Baker, of Evans, describes herself as a “ballet mom, gymnast mom and taxi driver.” And, while her 10-year-old twin daughters keep her busy, she also works as the finance director of CMA Technology, which she owns with her husband, Greg. Kari serves on a multitude of community boards including the Ronald McDonald House Charities and the Greater Augusta Arts Council. She’s also the current president of the Junior League of Augusta. Her perfect job: I already have it! I love being a mom, volunteering and using my business background working with my husband at the family business. Favorite television shows: The Amazing Race and Downton Abbey. Wanted to be when she grew up: A fashion designer. Hardest part about being a mom: No sleep! Favorite Dish: Cooking, what’s that? Greatest hope: For my daughters to be strong, independent, intelligent and kind women who go after all of their dreams. Is inspired by: The women of the Junior League. Favorite food: Pizza, followed closely by dessert. Song playing in her head: “I Gotta Feeling” by the Black Eyed Peas. Favorite thing about being a mom: The hugs and cuddles. Best life lesson: Be fearless.

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