Augusta Family Magazine February 2015 by Augusta Family Magazine

February 2015 ANNUAL PARTY GUIDE GETTING DINNER ON THE TABLE UNDERSTANDING ANXIETY CAMP IVEY IS COMING

Michael and Kirby Rushbrook, 4 and 2, are the sons of Michael and Carolyn Rushbrook of Augusta. Photo by Branch Carter.

Family AUGUSTA

m a g a z i n e

w w w. a u g u s t af a m i l y. c om PUBLISHER Kate Cooper Metts

Contents

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EDITOR Karin Calloway PRODUCTION Art Director / Web Producer Michael Rushbrook

ADVERTISING Director of Advertising Lisa Dorn Advertising Sales Doressa Hawes Lisa Taylor Maidi McMurtrie Thompson Mary Porter Vann

Audience Development Manager Jessica Seigler

Annual Party Guide By Lucy Adams Photos by Branch Carter

PHOTOGRAPHY Branch Carter and John Harpring CONTRIBUTORS Lucy Adams Kim Beavers, MS, RD, CDE J. Ron Eaker, M.D. Mallory Daniel Cammie Jones Christina Katz Mary Ashton Mills Jennie Montgomery Danielle Wong Moores PRE PRESS SERVICES .JDLFZ ,JCMFS r ,FMMZ :J 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.

editor’s page mom2mom

You Think Kids are Sneaky? -Jennie Montgomery

10 13

-Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE

qu ick pick

doctor/dad

Understanding Anxiety

inspiration station

Sowing the Seeds of a Special Summer Camp -Lucy Adams

34 46

Seven Habits of Highly Healthy People -J. Ron Eaker, M.D.

health&home -Mary Ashton Mills

news&notes eating well with kim Chocolate + Romance

By Christina Katz

February

departments 7 9

Great Gifts for Every Child’s First Birthday That Keep on Giving

smart mom’s guide Meal Planning

-Cammie Jones

calendar go girl! Ryan Rhodes, DVM -Mallory Daniel

“Here’s what I remember about my daughter’s first birthday. We made a big fuss. She had no idea what was going on. She was not even interested in the carrot cake I had made especially for her. What I wish I had realized instead is that her birthday was a big deal for us, but just another day in babydom, for her.” Read Christina Katz’s “older and wiser” ideas on what to do for your child by their first birthday on page 28.

ON THE COVER Michael and Kirby Rushbrook, 4 and 2, are the sons of Michael and Carolyn Rushbrook of Augusta. Photo by Branch Carter.

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The Augusta Family Magazine invites you to our Summer Camp Expo 2014. The mission of this Expo is to showcase a variety of summer programs educating parents about the options available for their children during the summer months. Great Information, fun, entertainment and door prizes equal an event that’s sure to be fun for the whole family! The Augusta Family Magazine invites you to our Summer The Augusta Family Magazine invites you to our Summer Expois2014. The mission of this Expo is to showcase Camp Expo 2014. The mission ofCamp this Expo to showcase a variety parents of summer programs educating parents about the a variety of summer programs educating about the The Augusta Family Magazine invites you to our Summer options for their children during the summer months. options available for their children duringavailable the summer months. CampGreat Expo 2014. The mission of is toanshowcase Information, fun, entertainment andthis doorExpo prizes equal Great Information, fun, entertainment and door prizes equal an sure to be fun for the whole family! event that’s sure a to variety be fun for the wholethat’s family! ofevent summer programs educating parents about the

2015

coming this April

options available for their children during the summer months. Great Information, fun, entertainment and door prizes equal an The Augusta Family Magazine invites you to our Summer event that’s sure to be fun for the whole family!

Camp Expo 2015. The mission of this Expo is to showcase a variety of summer programs educating parents about the options available INTERESTED IN BEING A VENDOR? PLEASE CONTACT LISA DORN, AT 706-823-3702 OR LISA.DORN@AUGUSTAMAGAZINE.COM for their children during the summer months.Great Information, fun, entertainment and door prizes equal an event that’s sure to be fun for the whole family! IN BEING VENDOR? PLEASE CONTACT LISA DORN, AT 706-823-3702 OR LISA.DORN@AUGUSTAMAGAZINE.COM INTERESTED IN BEING A VENDOR? PLEASEINTERESTED CONTACT LISA DORN,AAT 706-823-3702 OR LISA.DORN@AUGUSTAMAGAZINE.COM

INTERESTED IN BEING A VENDOR? PLEASE CONTACT LISA DORN, AT 706-823-3702 OR LISA.DORN@AUGUSTAMAGAZINE.COM INTERESTED IN BEING A VENDOR? PLEASE CONTACT LISA DORN, AT 706-823-3702 OR LISA.DORN@AUGUSTAMAGAZINE.COM

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editor’s

2 by Karin Calloway

8 7 60

335

By the Numbers

Now that my feet are firmly planted in the new year I’ve noticed a trend. My world seems to revolve around numbers. Dates to remember, to-do lists and even this issue of Augusta Family Magazine. So instead of fighting my “numbers” trend I’m going to embrace it by offering up some important numbers for February and also some fun numbers in this month’s magazine. 2—February 2nd is Groundhog Day. 7—The number of simple ideas our doctor/dad columnist Dr. J. Ron Eaker shares that can honestly help you improve your health. 7—The number of gift ideas writer Christina Katz suggests for your child’s first birthday. Hint: The list includes things “older and wiser” parents wish they had lined up for their children by their first birthday. Read the article on page 28. 8—The number of meal-planning tips Cammie Jones provides in this month’s Smart Mom’s Guide. 14—February 14th is Valentine’s Day. 60—The number of party places listed in our annual birthday party guide. It begins on page 19. 335—The number of days until Christmas as I write this column. 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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mom m m

ILLUSTRATION BY MICHAEL RUSHBROOK

by Jennie Montgomery

! Tic ! Tic ! Tic You Think Kids Are Sneaky?

Never again! I was wrapping up a great week off: the holidays were over, Christmas was all boxed up and packed in the attic, the girls were safely back at college. There I sat on a Sunday afternoon with nothing to do…but instead of reveling in the peace and enjoying that rare, unscheduled moment, I had to pick a project. My halls were crying for fresh paint. I just couldn’t stand it another day. Suppressing my control-freak nature, I decided to include Scott in the decision-making. (And by decision-making I don’t mean whether or not we should paint. We should. I mean Gray Ghost or Toasted Almond? Satin or gloss trim? Choices I’d already made, but I would string him along to let him think he had some input. You know.) While Scott was busy with the details like trays, drop cloths and roller brushes, I was making my way to the hardware aisle. After all, if we were doing all new paint it would be the perfect time to switch out some doorknobs and drawer pulls. Scott caught up with me and took it a step further. He said since we’ve been talking about finishing the hardwoods through the family room and kitchen… now seems like the perfect time to start pricing. An hour later he was STILL wandering though the wood flooring. And tile. If we do tile then we’ll want new, cool glass tile back splashes in the kitchen… What was happening? How in the world did my trip for a couple of cans of paint turn into a day of D-I-Y day dreaming INSIDE the huge home improvement store? By now we’d been there a couple of hours. HOURS!! As we hauled out the cart and headed into the parking lot I cracked a joke about being surprised to still see daylight—and it hit me. Was this all a grand plan to stall my remodeling project? Did Scott really one-up me inside that store, dragging me along as he cleverly ticked away the minutes he could have spent in my stairwell, high up on a ladder? Oh, I am already planning my Home Goods revenge! JENNIE MONTGOMERY anchors the evening news at WJBF-TV. She and her husband, Scott, have three children: Zack, 21, Maddy, 20, and Sky, 19.

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news notes

=fi^\k cfm\Ç@ Ë[ iXk_\i ]Xcc `e Z_fZfcXk\ -Sandra J. Dykes

Storybook second annual

New Home Safety Program CHILD SAFETY BEGINS AT HOME. As the parent or caregiver of a child, Safe Kids Greater Augusta wants to provide you with vital information on how to provide a safe, happy environment for children of all ages and, hopefully, eliminate preventable injuries in and around the home. With that in mind, Safe Kids is launching a new home safety program, a comprehensive session covering multiple child safety topics, including medication safety and poison prevention; water safety; as well as tips on how to prevent button battery ingestion, TV tip overs, fires and burns. Look for more information about the new home safety classes including how to sign up in the full version of this article on AugustaFamily.com or by calling the Safe Kids office at 706-721-7606. 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 Worldwide & USA network. To ﬁnd out more about local Safe Kids programs, call 706-721-7606, or visit grhealth.org/safekids. Read the whole article about the new home safety program at www.augustafamily.com.

BRUNCH

SECOND ANNUAL STORYBOOK BRUNCH SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 8:30 AND 11 A.M. AUGUSTA – The Southeastern Firefighters Burn Foundation is planning its Second Annual Storybook Brunch, Satutrday, February 28, at First Baptist Church Fellowship Hall, 3500 Walton Way. There are two seatings this year— an 8:30 a.m. VIP seating for sponsors and 11 a.m. General Seating. The magical morning begins with a hearty breakfast, followed by a parade of favorite storybook characters, including princes, princesses and action heroes, who linger for autographs and photographs. Children are encouraged to dress up as their favorite storybook character. Parents, don’t forget your cameras! The cost of the event is $20 per person and includes a breakfast buffet. Advance reservations are required and seating is limited. Strollers and carriers are not allowed. Tickets are required for ALL attendees, regardless of age. Tickets may be purchased online by visiting sfbf.net/StorybookBrunch. For more information, call the Burn Foundation at 706-650-BURN (2876).

augustafamily.com FRESH FACES

Go to www.AUGUSTAFAMILY.com to enter!

2015 February E

PARTY GUID TABLE ON THE DINNER GETTING ANXIETY TANDING UNDERS IS COMING CAMP IVEY

ANNUAL

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

CONTESTS & GIVEAWAYS

Go to www.augustafamily.com and click on the contest page to find the contests for February and March including: SOUTHERN SOUL AND SONG— ENJOY AN EVENING OF BLUEGRASS WITH SAM BUSH. Feb. 13 at the Imperial Theatre.

SYMPHONY OF KITCHENS DREAM KITCHENS. Don’t miss this year’s tour of seven stunning kitchens, March 14.

ROCK FORE DOUGH! EXPERIENCE A MASTERS TRADITION ON US. Register for tickets to the annual Rock Fore Dough! concert Masters week

WEST SIDE STORY MODERN DAY ROMEO AND JULIET. The Augusta Players presents the American classic, Feb. 20-21, at the Imperial Theatre.

are 4 and 2, rook Rushbrook, and Kirby and Carolyn Rushb Michael el of Micha h Carter. the sons by Branc ta. Photo of Augus

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>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>> YOU + YOUR CHILD ON OUR COVER

WE’RE ALWAYS ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR CHILDREN TO GRACE THE COVER OF AUGUSTA FAMILY MAGAZINE, BUT IN THE UP COMING MAY/JUNE ISSUE THE COVER WILL BE SHARED BY A PARENT AND CHILD. IN HONOR OF MOTHER’S DAY ON MAY 10 AND FATHER’S DAY ON JUNE 21 WE’RE HOLDING A PARENT CHILD “LOOKALIKE” CONTEST. THE “LOOKALIKES” CAN BE MOTHER/DAUGH

CONTEST ENDS MARCH 20 AND THE COVER PHOTO SESSION WILL BE SCHEDULED

TER, FATHER/DAUGHTER, MOTHER/SON OR

FOR THE WEEK OF APRIL 13. QUESTIONS? CONTACT OUR EDITOR, KARIN CALLOWAY,

FATHER/SON AND YOU CAN SUBMIT PHOTO

AT KARIN.CALLOWAYAUGUSTAFAMILY.COM.

ENTRIES ON THE CONTEST PAGE OF OUR WEB SITE, WWW.AUGUSTAFAMILY.COM.

SUBMIT YOUR ENTRIES TODAY!

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>>>>>>>>

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eating well with kim by Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE

CHOCOLATE + ROMANCE The Classic Valentine’s Day Combination Can Be Heart-Healthy

Cocoa-Spiced Pork Loin Chops with Gravy

The flavors of this rub combine to provide warmth and mellow flavor that easily pair with rice or potatoes anytime of the year. Rub: 1 tablespoon chili powder 1 tablespoon cocoa powder ½ teaspoon ground coffee (extra ﬁne) ¼ teaspoon garlic powder ¼ teaspoon pepper ¼ teaspoon cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon salt

ILLUSTRATION BY MICHAEL RUSHBROOK

Pork: 4 center-cut loin chops, trimmed of most fat Non-stick cooking spray 1 teaspoon canola oil 1 cup onions, diced 1 cup reduced-sodium chicken broth 1 tablespoon cornstarch ¼ cup water

Combine the rub ingredients in a large plastic ziptop bag. Add pork to the bag and coat evenly with rub. Place a non-stick skillet coated with cooking spray over medium-high heat and add oil. Once hot, add pork and cook 4-6 minutes on each side until nice and brown. Remove to a plate and tent (cover loosely) with aluminum foil.

“Strength is the capacity to break a chocolate bar into four pieces with your bare hands—and then eat just one of the pieces.” -Judith Viorst

or a healthy heart and a happy Valentine’s Day be choosy—about your mate and your chocolate. Chocolate and romance definitely go together. Truth be told, chocolate and everything go together. In fact chocolate is not just for dessert anymore. Vocoa has some great savory culinary uses like the spice rub used in this month’s recipe. Cocoa powder is a seemingly humble ingredient, but in terms of both flavor and flavanols it packs a powerful punch. Flavanols, which are found in the cocao bean, are a group of phytochemicals with health benefits including heart health. Chocolate has two main components—cocoa

solids and cocoa butter. The chocolate that we eat in the bar or candy shape is a combination of cocoa solids, cocoa butter, sugar and additional additives, all of which decrease the flavanol concentration. Therefore chocolate bars with a higher percentage of cocoa solids, such as dark chocolate, will have more flavanols. To get the most health benefit, choose chocolates that are 70 percent or more cocoa and limit your intake to a small square. Cocoa powder however is primarily cocoa solids (85-90 percent), has no sugar and few calories. Of course, it is not palatable on its own. Some ideas for adding cocoa powder to your diet include mixing it into yogurt, smoothies, oatmeal, coffee or as in the recipe below, into a spice rub. Enjoy!

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Reduce heat to medium. Add onions to the pan and sauté for 30-60 seconds. Add broth and stir to get up all the brown bits. Lastly, combine cornstarch and water, add to the pan and boil for 1 minute or until thick. Add the pork back to the pan, cover and cook until done (2-4 minutes or until 145 degrees on a meat thermometer). Serve gravy with pork.

Yield: 4 servings Nutrition Breakdown: Calories 200, Fat 8g (2.5g saturated fat); Cholesterol 65mg, Sodium 350mg, Carbohydrate 8g, Fiber 2g, Protein 25g. Percent Daily Value: 10% Vitamin A, 8% Iron, 6% Vitamin C, 4% Calcium

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.

aby boomers like myself remember the perennial bestseller “7 Habits of Highly Effective People” as the consummate selfhelp guide and author Dr. Steven Covey as the lifestyle guru extraordinaire. It spawned a plethora of sound-alike and look-alike tomes that all were based on “7 Somethings.” (7 Rules, 7 Guides, 7 Pillars, 7-Elevens, etc). I always wondered what was so special about “7” other than it sounded better than “16 Habits of Very Tired People,” but from numerology to the Bible, 7 seemed to have a mystical book-selling ability. So, in honor of 7, I humbly present the “7 Habits of Highly Healthy People.” (To be distinguished from Snoop Dog’s autobiography, “The 7 Habits of the High and Healthy People.”)

1) They eat moderately and modestly. There is no magic food! Eating kale and bean sprouts all day will make you boring and rabbit-like. Eat a balance of protein, fat and carbohydrates. It really is that simple. Many studies suggest that lowering the simple sugars and high-glycemic carbohydrates (Google it!) will help you lose weight and maintain that loss. Going to extremes in your diet is unhealthy, expensive and will give you bad breath. Also, eat fewer calories. If you like steak, eat steak…but don’t put two pounds of butter on your potato and keep the dessert under ten pounds. If you have your own private table at Dairy Queen, you need to cut back.

HABITS of Highly Healthy People

out to be pampered. A brisk walk or a Zumba class in ridiculous spandex will add years to your life if it is consistently practiced, and, more importantly, your children will be able to make fun of you later when they see your pictures.

faith, practicing your beliefs and living by the creeds of your particular orthodoxy has a beneficial effect on health. That is assuming you are not a devotee of the Crusades or a militant extremists, as their lifespans tend to be about as long as a Kardashian marriage.

3) They laugh at themselves.

6) They de-stress.

This one is easy for me as my daughters continually provide reasons for me to laugh at myself. They are quick to point out I am not as cool as I think I am, which should be obvious as I am still using coolness as a human trait. Taking yourself and your horrible, stress-filled life too seriously leads to physical and emotional stagnation. That doesn’t mean that a laissez faire attitude at all times is optimal, but lighten up to add years to your plight. Who knows…things could get better.

Stress kills. From hypertension to depression, daily stress can put more holes in your body than whiskers on a gerbil…and that’s a lot by the way. Some studies have shown that up to 70 percent of visits to primary care doctors are due to stress. If Obamacare (aka the Affordable Health Care Act) would get rid of stress it might even work. Unfortunately, it seems to be having just the opposite effect. There are a number of ways to minimize stress and none start with X A N A X. Flower arranging, counseling, exercise, yoga, meditation, hunting, full-contact karate and attending city council meetings are just a few stress-relieving activities available to the general public.

4) They join stuff. Dan Buettner famously pointed out in his inspiring book on longevity, “The Blue Zones,” that people who live the longest tend to be social animals. They participate, whether it’s social clubs, scooter races, jello-wrestling or nude skydiving. People who continually engage tend to be healthier and live longer. This must be tempered by a heavy dose of common sense, as joining a Justin Bieber fan club will immediately result in brain atrophy.

5) They are religious.

2) They are active. You don’t have to run a marathon to be healthy. You don’t even have to run at all. (I can’t believe I just said that!) You just have to get up off the “Couch of Doom” and move. You are designed to be in motion, all your muscles and bones are crying

This one surprised me, given the whole martyr thing, but people who attend some form of religious service once a week tend to be healthier, as a group, than those who stay at home and do secular humanist things. No one religion has a monopoly on this characteristic (sorry Rev. Osteen) but it seems having

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7) They serve others. Volunteerism confers as much health benefit as a daily vitamin and generally costs less and won’t constipate you. The data is conclusive, if you focus on the needs of others and help them meet those needs, you will improve your health. You will be better psychologically, physically, people will like you and dogs will lick your face. Believe me, no matter how miserable and decrepit your life is, someone, somewhere has it much worse and it behooves you and the universe to find that person and help make their life just a bit more tolerable. v 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

Meal I

started back working part-time two years ago after a 11½-year “hiatus.” It was the opportunity I had been looking for—VERY part time. I drop the girls off at school in the morning, go to work and pick them up each afternoon at carpool—three days a week. I thought, “No problem, I can do this.” Well, we also had just moved into a new home and my oldest started middle school. Just a few life changes. Needless to say, I felt like I was losing it. My house was in shambles, we were all trying to adjust and I was failing at dinner time. I did find a new best friend—my crock-pot—and ways to really plan ahead to make mealtime a little smoother for all of us. Here are some tips:

Plan Your Meals Usually on Saturday or Sunday, I get out my calendar and look at the school and work-week ahead, taking into account extracurricular activities, sports games and practices. I begin my meal plan for each day, asking for input from the kids. Then, I make my grocery list according the meal plan. If I’m working on Monday and someone has practice or a game around dinnertime, I put together a crock-pot recipe of some sort. That way, if we are

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PLANNING going in five different directions, we can eat whenever we get home.

Prepare Meals Ahead of Time Making meals ahead of time and freezing them is a great idea. I do this a lot with lasagnas, spaghetti sauces and chicken. (The issue comes with remembering to defrost them, but that is for a different article.) Also, if you go to the store on Sunday, take this day to wash your fruit and vegetables and cut up anything that can be stored in a zip-top plastic bag or container for an upcoming supper. “Place in a zip-closed bags, label the date the meal is for and freeze,” suggests blogger Sarah Brooks of sheknows.com. “This works well for stir-fry, soups and casseroles.” I also sometimes make a soup on Sunday that can be stored overnight in the fridge and reheated the next day. Everyone knows soups and chili are better the next day anyway!

Use Fresh Produce & Meat Early in the Week Everyone wants to eat healthy meals, even during an extremely busy week. The key is for the produce and meat to not sit in the fridge all week and go bad. So, when planning meals, use these items early on in the week to maintain taste and freshness.

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smartMom’sguide

Also, serve fruit with each meal, especially if it is a type that won’t last all week. It bulks up your menu and is healthy for your family.

Use Your Freezer Maybe not as healthy but I do keep some random pizzas or chicken nuggets in the freezer for those crazy off-nights when supper just doesn’t happen. Serve with a veggie or fruit from the fridge and dinner is served! Also, any meals you have made and frozen ahead of time can usually be thawed out the day of and heated up for dinner.

Be Flexible Raquel Pelzel, food writer and blogger at “Raq in the Kitchen,” suggests planning three to four meals a week and keeping the others as impromptu dinners. “I save one or two meals for ‘inspired’ creations—those times I am passing a farmer’s market

and get romanced by a gorgeous head of broccoli or some pristine day-boat sea bass!” Now, that might not happen here, but you get the idea. Maybe you’re at the grocery midweek for the coffee you just ran out of (a definite emergency in my house) and see a great deal on pork tenderloin or type of fresh fish. You’ve left some flexibility in the meal plan for the week so buy and enjoy it. You might just find your family’s new favorite meal.

Keep an Emergency Pantry Meal on Hand I’ve found myself many times just staring in my pantry trying to find something to cook for supper. Keep things in the pantry that you can whip up in just a few minutes—lentils and pasta are great to use for a quick meal. Toss in some leftover chicken or turkey sausage (we love the already cooked Jimmy Dean turkey crumbled sausage in the bag), an onion, other seasonings, a

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can of tomatoes and you’re in business.

Don’t Cook This doesn’t necessarily mean go through the fast food drive-thru. Serve the kids cereal and fruit or put out a plate of cheese and crackers. Make it more of a picnic type meal. Have sandwich meat in the house? Make a turkey or ham sandwich.

Eat Out Once a Week My girls think eating out during the week is such a treat. If time doesn’t allow you to actually go to the restaurant, pick up the food and eat it at home. We have our favorite take-out places that the whole family enjoys. It takes the burden off of me and makes everyone happy. Sometimes a busy week needs a little fun. v Cammie Jones is an Augusta freelance writer and mother of three.

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Party Time!

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BEST BIRTHDAY BASHES!

OUR GUIDE TO PARTY PLACES THROUGHOUT THE CSRA BY LUCY ADAMS

Local entertainment and party venues abound in Augusta. Whether you want to plan it yourself or rely on an experienced expert, Augusta Family Magazine’s ultimate party guide puts information at your ﬁngertips. www.augustafamily.com

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BEST 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: Go-carts for ages 5-75, midway rides, 36 holes of mini-golf or batting cages. Play inside their 6,210-square-foot 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.

Hoppy Feed Fun Center 701 Devika Dr., Suite 8, Grovetown. 706-755-2619. http://www.hoppyfeet.com/. Hoppy Feet Inflatables is a family owned and operated indoor fun center and inflatable rental company in Grovetown—licensed and fully insured to provide your children with a safe environment for play. Offering great party packages and inflatable rentals at a reasonable price. Call for details.

Jump City www.jumpcity.us or http://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 an Sumo suits ($155), a

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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. 803-279-6333. 1746 Knox Ave., N. Augusta. Plan a party at their inside facility or have them deliver (within a 125 mile radius) the fun to your home. Inﬂatable rentals begin at $110. A trackless train, rock wall, dunk tank and more are available to round out the party atmosphere. Call for or visit the website for details. Parent brings the cake and ice cream. Basic Indoor 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.

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 $50. Optional add-ons include balloons, goody bags and ice cream. Additional guests are $10 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.

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•

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 children ages 2+. Younger children will enjoy the softplay room. Children ages 5+ will want to party in the game room with X-box system, art station and more. For a 2-hour party, members pay $125; nonmembers pay $175. Plus $50 deposit. 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. 706-922-9615. 3570 Wheeler Rd., Augusta. Fees for 2-hour Clubhouse party are $150 for members, $200 non-members for up to 50 guests. Family Adventure Center Parties are $200 for members, $250 for non-members 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. lphall@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,

BEST BIRTHDAY BASHES!

$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 nonmembers. 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. In-door non-private parties have a max of 26 swimmers. Parents supply cake, ice cream and decorations.

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Pool and Water Park Parties Include: • Invitations. • Pool time/party time in private room. • Lifeguard. • Music by request.

Princess Party: • Up to 2 hours for eight girls (this number includes the birthday girl). • Mini Manicure/Mini Pedicure. • Spa robes provided while receiving services. • Runway—choice of princess dress or tutu. • 8 standard invitations. Additional invitations are $.50 each. • Toast to the birthday girl. • Photos of the party on a DVD. • All parties are expected to start at its scheduled time, otherwise, a $35 late fee will be added to your total • Additional girls are $30 each.

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 on Saturdays between the hours of 12:30-3:30 p.m. or on Sundays between the hours of 1:30-4 p.m. Younger kids will enjoy the soft-play 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.

Plates and utensils.

PLENTY OF PAMPERING Tiaras & Pearls www.tiarasandpearls.net 229 Furys Ferry Rd., Suite 113. 706-922-7721. NEW LOCATION COMING SOON!

Glamorous Party: Additional girls are $40 each. In addition to the Princess Party package this party includes: • Party lasts up to 2 1/2 hours. • Makeup application/princess face painting.

Parties Include: • 2 attendants to help set up, clean up and supervise. • A separate room for food, presents and cake.

Enchanted Party: Additional girls are $50 each. In addition to the standard party package this party includes:

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 $330 for up to 40 guests for 2 hours. Reserve your party day and time with a $50 deposit. Al la carte options for an additional charge include food, beverage, themed packages and extra space. All Parties Include: • A party planner (2 hours). • Party room. • T-shirt for birthday child. • Invitations. • Paper products. • Lemonade. • Cupcakes.

Makeup application/princess face painting. Special goodie bag for the Birthday Girl. Karaoke. Includes ﬂatware, plates, and cups.

The Royal Treatment Party: Additional girls are $50 each. In addition to the standard party package, this party includes: • A Tiaras & Pearls Princess that will accompany your princess in a limousine to deliver up to eight invitations to her guests. • Makeup application/princess face painting.

includes the birthday girl). Additional girls are $50 each. In addition to the standard party package this party includes: • • • • • • • • • •

Make-up. Tattoo. Magazines. Signature Drink. 2 Large, 1-topping pizzas. Popcorn. Dancing. Karaoke. PG-Rated Movie (Birthday Princess’ choice). LOTS of girl talk!

Other packages available (call for information): • T&P BFF Package (on the go). • Tiaras & Pearls Package. • Tiaras & Pearls Ultimate Package. • A la carte Services.

HORSE AROUND Hilltop Riding Stables www.fortgordon.com. 706-791-4864. N. Range Rd., Building 508, Fort Gordon. Party fees are $220-sponsored or $250-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 $23 each. Extra ponies available for $11 each. • Tablecloths. • Balloons and streamers. • Party room. • Picnic areas, some with grills.

Graystone Ranch and Wildlife Education Center

The Spa-Jama Party (Especially for Tweens— Friday nights only): Tweens come dressed in your favorite PJs, bring blanket and pillow. This party can only be booked on Friday nights, 7:30-11:30 p.m. Party Duration: Up to 4 hours. Party to accommodate 10 tweens (thi-

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.

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BEST BIRTHDAY BASHES!

Hidden Forrest Equestrian Center http://hiddenforrest.net/. 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.

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.

MAKE & CREATE Build-A-Bear Workshop www.buildabear.com. 706-736-0895. Augusta Mall, 3450 Wrightsboro Rd. Each guest makes his or her own stuffed animal friend. Party pricing starts at $12 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. • Printable invitations and thank you cards. • Party favor for each guest.

Delightful Bites Cakery www.delightfulbitescakery.com. events@delightfulbitescakery.com 706-294-5067. 3801-C Washington Rd., Augusta. Celebrate in style at Delightful Bites! Our Party coordinators will work with you to ensure that your CUSTOM party will be complete with all the details covered so that your group will have a blast. All parties are hands-on participation and are all-inclusive. Parties last approximately 1 1/2 hours and are $25/ child (8 children minimum), additional children at a reduced rate of $15/child. Extended parties are available upon request. Included with every party package: • Personalized invitations for your party.

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• 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 punch for the guests. • All participants will receive a small goodie bag ﬁlled with age-appropriate favors and a free cupcake card to use at the Cakery. • Snacks for adults. Parties are designed to be dropoff 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: • Choose one of the following activities: Cookie decorating, cupcake decorating or candy making. Parties for grades 2-4: • 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). Parties for ages 10 and up: • 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: • 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: • Delightful Bites catered lunch or dinner (price is based on selections).

My Best Friend’s Sewing Room https://www.facebook.com/mybestfriendssewingroom 706-993-8819. 3850 Washington Rd., Suite 4C. Two-hour sewing parties for children’s birthdays, with enough time to sew a simple project and enjoy cake and beverages. The birthday child and guests complete a simple sewing project. Parents supply cake and beverages. Children ages nine and up machine sew a pillow, a drawstring backpack or a small tote bag. They learn how to pin, make

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a straight stitch and are guided in using an iron. Children ages 7-8 stuff a plush animal and use hand sewing to make stitches and sew on buttons. Ask about other options. $240 for 8 children minimum (they can take up to 10 at their discretion). A $100 nonrefundable deposit is required to reserve date. The party must be paid in full 5 days before the party date. Parties Include: • Sewing supplies and sewing machines. • Sewing instruction. • Invitations. • Paper products. • Decorations. • Drawing for a prize.

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.

Smocks Art Parties jennifer@smocksaugusta.com. 706-833-9696 742 McClure Drive, Augusta A Smocks art party is a unique way to celebrate your child! Choose your favorite artwork from our 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!) All you need to do is provide the cake & beverages. Birthday parties are scheduled on Fridays and Saturdays for children turning 6 or older and last 2.5-3 hours. Parties are held at our home studio. Package A: 12x12 or 11x14 gallery wrapped canvas (2.5hour party) $310 for 9 children. Package B: 16x20 gallery wrapped canvas (3 hour party) $340 for 9 children. Add up to 2 additional children for $20 each. Both packages include: • Personalized party invitations. • Thank you notes. • Coordinating paper plates, napkins, spoons. • All art supplies. • Party decorations. • Birthday gift (11x14 personalized canvas).

BEST BIRTHDAY BASHES!

• Balloons. • Photographs of the party. • 2 hours of step-by-step instruction by owner, Jennifer Rucker. • 30 min allotted for cake and presents.

ists. Canvas parties are $30 per child for the ﬁrst 10 children and $15 for each additional guest. A 50% deposit reserves your party. Check the website for other Arty options and party ideas.

Artsy Me

110 Pleasant Home Rd., Suite 2-B. Le Pavilion Shopping Center. 706-284-6649. VanGoghandVino.com. Kids Painting Parties are fun, educational and an exciting new way for your child to be creative. “Mini Vinnie” Parties (Ages 6-14) Cost for parties: $150 deposit required to reserve the date. Balance due at time of event. $275 covers up to 9 painters. Each additional painter is $25. “Mini Vinnie” parties are scheduled on Saturday’s from 10am-noon, 1:303:30pm or Sunday from 2-4 p.m.

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 room holds up to 20 people. Choose from a variety of party packages: • Artsy Party includes a ceramic plate, mug, bowl or critter for each child to paint and is $18 per child. • Extra Artsy Party includes a plaque, bank or keepsake box for each child to paint and is $20 per child. • At the Canvas Celebration Party each child creates an 11×14 canvas with acrylic paints ($20 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, $25 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. Free printable invitation. Adult supervision required for children under the age of 5. Three canvas sizes available: $35/child for a 16”x20” canvas (5 person minimum), $25/child for a 12”x16” canvas (6 person minimum) and $15/ child for a 9”x12” canvas (10 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. A $50 deposit is due two weeks prior to the event.

Arty Party of Augusta www.artypartyfun.com. eprice@artypartyfun.com. 706-267-8453. Plan an Arty Party at your home or the venue of your choice. Basic face painting is $85 for one hour or $65 per hour for two or more hours. Henna parties appeal to teens and are $125 per hour per art-

Van Gogh and Vino

Parties include: • A theme-speciﬁc painting for your party (with three weeks advanced notice). • All the painting materials, art instruction and fun!

GET IN THE GAME! Skateland of Augusta http://www.skatelandofaugusta.com/Parties.htm. 706-796-4048. 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. Choose from options to have party during public session, on a weekend or night, or a private party. Basic party (public session) 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. • Make it a hotdog or pizza skate party for an additional charge.

• One pair of GTX-500 speed skates for the birthday child.

Brunswick National Lanes http://www.bowlbrunswick.com. 706-860-1668. 3067 Washington Road, Augusta. Choose the Birthday Party KidZ package for a birthday celebration with bowling, pizza, soft drinks and more! Or, provide your guests with MEGA fun at a MEGA value with our MEGA Birthday Party KidZ package - including extra goodies for the guests and a keepsake signature bowling pin for the birthday kid that the guests can sign.

Gordon Lanes Bowling Center http://www.fortgordon.com/programs/leisure/activities/gordon-lanes. 706-791-3446. Bldg. 33200, 3rd Ave., Fort Gordon. Bowlopolis Birthday Parties includes 1 hour of bowling and 1 hour in the party room, shoe rental, choice of 3 meals and treat bag. $11 per child (minimum of 10 children).

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

Super Duper (public session) Party ($260): • 10 children, $11 each additional child. • Everything in the basic party plus two large single topping pizzas. • 10 glow products.

www.hensleypma.com. 803-640-8443. 401 West Martintown Rd., North Augusta. 706-432-6963. 701 Devika Dr., Grovetown. Email at info@hensleypma.com. Qualiﬁed martial arts instructors at Premier Martial Arts will lead the children in games, activities, and a safe karate lesson. There will be plenty of time for cake and ice cream. Parents can sit back and watch the fun and action, or they can have and participate in all the activities themselves! They accommodate any size party from 5 guests to 50. Parties last 1 ½ hours. The fee is $195. They also can offer appearances by any and all 4 of the ninja turtles or Panda. The fee

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BEST BIRTHDAY BASHES!

is $50 per character to make a 10 to 15 minute appearance and for picture taking. By request they also have a 30 foot inﬂatable tumble track at the North Augusta location. For a $25 fee party guests get 30 minutes of jumping and tumbling fun.

Augusta GreenJackets www.milb.com. pmarshall@greenjacketsbaseball.com. 706-922-9467. Lake Olmstead Stadium, 78 Milledge Rd., Augusta. Watch the game and celebrate together. $15 per person. Season starts in mid-April. Little Caesar’s Birthday Party Includes: • Reserved tickets. • Autographed baseball for the birthday child. • Little Caesar’s Pizza. • Dessert. • Free Admission to the Fun Zone. • Table in the Fun Zone for food and cake. • Sing Happy Birthday on the dugout.

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 ages four and 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. No parties scheduled in June and July. Two trained instructors supervise. Make reservations at least two weeks in advance. A $25 deposit is required. Includes: • Party area. • Drinks. • Invitations. • T-shirt for the birthday child. • Cleanup.

Haydens Gymnastics and Cheer Academy www.haydensgym.com. 706-868-0608. 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. A $50deposit reserves the date. Pool parties may be

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scheduled during summer months. Includes: • Professional instructors. • Set up and clean up. • Invitations. • Table decorations. • Goody bags. • 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. Secure your desired party day and time with a $25 deposit. 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. • Birthday gift for the honoree. • 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. Birthday parents skate free.

2007 Tobacco 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. 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, drinks and ice cream. • Goodie bags with VIP pass for a free karate class for each participating child.

EATS AND TREATS! 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 , the Super Star package or the Mega Super Star package. Minimum of 4 children. All Packages Include: • 2 hours of reserved table space. • Ticket Blaster experience for the birthday child. • Crown for the birthday child. • Star recognition in the show. • Game tokens for each child. • Free reﬁlls on drinks. • Pizza. • Party host or hostess. • Festive tablecloth and plates.

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream

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

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 $175 for up to 20 people (2 hours). Additional guests are $20/per person. Please inquire about prices for ice cream catering for off-site parties. Packages available for Augusta and Evans locations only. We offer a tour of the store, make own

Southern Tang Soo Do Martial Arts Studio

Includes: • Bruster’s ice cream cake. • Nathan’s Famous hot dogs, chips and fountain drinks.

www.stsdkarate.com. 706-793-6603.

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BEST BIRTHDAY BASHES!

• • • •

Balloons. Paper products. Set-up and cleanup. A birthday message on the reader board.

Bruster’s Real Ice Cream http://realicecream.com. 803-279-9831. 1279 Knox Ave., N. Augusta. The Bruster’s party planner works with parents to design a party that ﬁts the budget. Party activities can include a tour of the store, making ice cream, decorating a cake and/or a hotdog and ice cream party.

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 three party packages starting at $5 per person with a minimum of 10 people, including a party in which each child receives a glitter tattoo for $7.50 per person. Parent can supply cake. 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 for 8 children and includes invitations, paper products, drinks, a Bricks 4 Kidz t-shirt and awesome party host! Builder Birthday package starts at $240 for 8 children and includes many 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 themes vary from lake ecology to carnival games. Packages include: • A 2-hour ranger-led program. • Picnic shelter rental. • Nature craft.

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• 5 park passes. • Party decorations. Additional options include: • Souvenir bags. • A state park-themed birthday cake. • A t-shirt for the birthday child. • A second ranger-led program.

Phinizy Swamp & Nature Park http://phinizycenter.org/ 706-828-2109. 1858 Lock and Dam Rd., Augusta. The Pﬁzer Pavilion is a covered picnic area that can be reserved for $10 per hour with a minimum of three hours. 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.

ROLL THAT CLIP! Regal Cinemas Augusta www.regmovies.com. 706-667-9713. 1144 Agerton Lane, Augusta. 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.

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BEST BIRTHDAY BASHES!

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.

GO HIGH TECH! The Game Dudes http://www.thegamedudes.com/. 803-508-2496. 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 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.

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• 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 $125 per hour. Parents supply the food.

BRING IN THE CLOWNS! (AND OTHER ENTERTAINMENT) tmt Productions https://www.facebook.com/tmtdj21. dj@gmail.com. 706-825-1041. DJ entertainment with 10 years of experience. They provide DJ entertainment for birthday parties, weddings, dances, proms, and other events. The best mobile setup around! Call for pricing and to book your event.

The Clubhouse Kids Puppet Theater http://mjohnpuppetman.wix.com/theclubhousekids. 706-951-7938. 350 Marshall St., Martinez. Birthdays R Us Package: • Ventriloquist act or puppet show. • Comedy magic show. • Balloons for everyone. • $100.00 for one hour up to 40 guests. Birthday Bash Package: • Ventriloquist act & puppet show. • Comedy magic act. • Balloons for everyone plus a lesson on how to make a balloon ﬁgure. • Birthday person receives a crown and a gift from The Clubhouse Kids gang. • $150.00 for one hour up to 40 guests.

Acme Fun Factory http://www.jinglesandcrew.com/.

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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 $75 per hour for up to 15 children. Pay only $1 for each additional child. Acme Fun Factory also rents a variety of inﬂatables, concession equipment (such as sno-cone and cotton candy machines) and tables and chairs.

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. Popular storybook character costumes also available. Come in a week before rental date and get ﬁtted. Rentals start at $50.

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 $100. Magical, story-telling Santa available for birthday parties during November and December. Call for details.

Singing Princesses www.singingprincessesga.com. www.facebook.com/singingprincesses. The Singing Princesses will 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 will create an enchanting experience that won’t soon be forgotten. Depending on the party package that is chosen, the Princesses will provide your guests with an afternoon of singing, dancing, storytelling and learning the meaning of true beauty. The experience can conclude with a Fairy Dust Coronation, making each attendee a true princess. The Singing Princesses are available for events throughout the CSRA. Visit our website to get all the details on the available Princesses and party packages. We look forward to making your next event magical! v Party Guide information provided by the organizations listed or appear as listed on their website and may change without notice to Augusta Family Magazine.

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GREAT G FTS FOR EVERY CHILD’S FIRST BIRTHDAY THAT KEEP ON GIVING BY CHRISTINA KATZ

ere’s what I remember about my daughter’s first birthday. We made a big fuss. She had no idea what was going on. She was not even interested in the carrot cake I had made especially for her. What I wish I had realized instead is that her birthday was a big deal for us, but just another day in babydom, for her.

Now that I’m older and wiser and my daughter is also older and more wise-cracking, these are the gifts I wish I had lined up for her on her first birthday instead of trying to impress upon her that her birthday was a super big deal. Then, if I had served a cake and she had barely noticed, it could have been to celebrate her parents for being so smart and planning ahead. So, implement as many of these suggestions as you can by the time your child turns one. And if you have not implemented them by that first birthday bash, be sure to give them some serious birthday cake for thought.

SAVINGS ACCOUNT. Whenever you get money gifts from relatives, put half of the money in your child’s savings account. Why? Because even though you think you need every kiddy gadget known to mankind when your child is young, you can often find items discounted or gently used for a lot less. Heck, you might even be next in line for a bunch of hand-me-downs from friends and family. So stash some of your child’s gift money now. You will be so glad you did later. And a few of the suggestions that fol-

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low, require money. So if you don’t have extra money of your own, you will be able to draw on money from your child’s saving account. NAME AS URL. We are living in the digital age and life is only going to become increasingly online and virtual by the time our little ones become big ones. So it’s nice to know that your future celebrity or entrepreneur has digital security in the form of their name reserved online. How will they use it? This is a lot less important right now than making sure that the possibility exists. Besides, you already saved some of that gift money, so you can use it for this and they won’t even owe you anything when they become rich and famous. But don’t worry about hosting. All you need to pay for is the URL itself and the privacy to keep your personal information offline. SAFETY DEPOSIT BOX. Savings accounts are a fairly vague concept for kids to understand. This is how they think: so, you want to take my money away from me and go put it in a boring-looking building where I can’t even visit it? This makes no sense to developing brains. But all kids innately understand the concept of treasure. And this is why you should have one (aka, a safety deposit box). Take them to visit your family treasures once a year. Show them how you keep a little cash, some jewels, and copies of important documents there and watch their eyes grow wide with excitement every time you say it’s time to go to the bank. And then, while you have their rapt attention, teach them all the ways you use the bank to secure and manage your money. COLLEGE FUND. If you can put aside even just $50 per month, it will really add up over the years and make a significant dent in your future college costs. Better yet if you can start with $50 a month and inch that up as your child grows. A 529 plan is a tax-advantaged savings plan designed to encourage saving for future college costs. 529 plans, legally known as “qualified tuition plans,” are sponsored by states, state agencies, or educational institutions and are authorized by Section 529 of the Internal Revenue Code. All fifty states and the District of Columbia sponsor at least one type of 529 plan. For more information visit http://www.collegesavings. org/index.aspx.

FAMILY LIBRARY CARD. Your child may be too young for a library card in your town or county, but make sure you have at least one library card for your family. Having one card actually makes it easier to keep track of what has been checked out than multiple cards do. Take your baby to the library regularly for story time and puppet shows and other entertaining, educational events. As your child grows, introduce him to the various age-appropriate sections of the library. And don’t forget about the multi-media options both at the library and online. A family that makes the most of library resources and offerings is a rich family indeed. MONEY COACH. Your child is probably too young to understand personal economics. How about you? If you are one of the many Americans who feel overwhelmed, inexperienced or uninformed when it comes to money management, let your baby be your wake-up call. You can either get yourself involved in money management coaching formally by searching for a certified coach online. Or you could swing by your local bank once and a while and ask your local banker for a little moneymanagement advice based on how much you are earning and saving each month. Sometimes just having a neutral mentor to discuss savings strategies with can make a wealth of difference. Then, later, as your child grows, either coach your child on money management yourself or call on your trusted mentor to help you do the job. TAX EXPERT. As parents, you can give thousands of dollars to your children each year without any tax consequences. Are you making sure that you are taking advantage of every tax-saving option available to your family? Furthermore, if you are overspending on taxes, that money could be going into your child’s savings or college accounts. Make sure you are working with the most reputable and vigorous tax professional you can reasonably afford to help your family legally save as much as possible on taxes. v

Journalist, author, and writing coach, Christina Katz offers creative saving and spending strategies to growing families who would like to enjoy a sense of future security. Her latest book is The Art Of Making Time For Yourself.

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health home by Mary Ashton Mills

Understanding

y t e i x An Anxiety Affects Both Children and Adults

uughâ&#x20AC;Śanxiety! By definition, anxiety is an unpleasant state of inner turmoil, often accompanied by nervous behavior. For many the mere mention of the word can make someone suffering from anxiety manifest symptoms like heart palpations or tightness in the chest. Other symptoms such as stomachaches, headaches, cold sweats and nervous behaviors can wreak havoc on someoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perfectly healthy physical profile. If you feel like you or your child may be suffering from anxiety, it is best to see a physician to rule out any other health complications and get proper treatment. In the meantime, take a few cues from local physicians who treat patients for various forms of anxiety daily. Amy Holsten, PhD, child psychologist with Families Forward in Martinez and Phillip S. Kennedy, MD, of the Center for Primary Care, are on the front lines of treating anxiety daily. Holsten says that her practice has a very good success rate with helping children they treat overcome and cope with different forms of anxiety. Kennedy treats adults who suffer from anxiety daily. He says that women are treated for anxiety more often than men.

Types of Anxiety There are many different types of anxiety from post- traumatic stress disorder and phobias to separation anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. One of the most common anxiety disorders is general anxiety. According to Holsten, the children she treats in her practice have classic symptoms of anxiety such as excessive worry, stomachaches or other stomach-related issues,

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health home

headaches, trouble sleeping, school refusal and a general refusal to do things without their parents that they seemed to previously enjoy. Most people have dealt with anxiety at one time or another. It is important to know that it is a normal part of life. Holsten says, “We all experience it and it is a good thing. Anxiety motivates us to do things and to do better. One of the things we will sometimes do as parents is to shield children from anxiety. However, they need to experience it to learn it is OK and how to handle it in a way that works for them.” Perhaps one of the most classic examples of overcoming anxiety is an 18-month-old toddler who screams and cries when a parent leaves the room. Separation anxiety peaks around 18 months of age. The child eventually grows out of this and stops crying when his parent leaves. What would happen if we never cut the cord so to speak? By allowing children to go through some anxiety, we are teaching them how to utilize coping skills and figure some things out on their own.

External Causes of Anxiety Cell phones can cause adults a lot of anxiety today. Most adults use a cell phone to connect with someone throughout the day. What was once a routine phone call is now one interruption after the other. Imagine that you are on an important phone call and while you are talking, a text message ding alerts you to several texts that are coming in while you are talking. At the same time you receive another familiar ding from a Facebook instant message. Someone is trying to send you a notification about a Facebook page. Then you hang up the phone and six new emails flash across your screen before you can even begin to read or respond to the text message. Do you have anxiety yet? In this case, turning the cell phone off at certain points in the day to avoid this anxiety trigger may be a good idea.

When Should You Seek Medical Attention? Holsten suggests that children seek the help

of a physician when they begin to have medical issues related to anxiety. Her rule of thumb is simple: If it begins to interfere with their ability to “be a kid” you should seek help or guidance from a professional. Kennedy says that very commonly his adult patients will present with a physical complaint that is caused by anxiety. By seeking medical attention, physicians can rule out certain issues to reveal the true problem, whether it’s anxiety or other health problems.

How Is Anxiety Treated? Holsten has success using cognitive behavior therapy with children. She implements many different coping mechanisms for children and helps them learn to identify thoughts which may be triggers. Sometimes medicine is used but many times she is able to treat a patient without medication. By learning to cope with this problem, many people are able to alleviate some of their symptoms. Holsten says exercise is incredibly beneficial as a coping skill to alleviate anxiety. “Other helpful things are learning to ‘belly breathe,’ yoga, music, being engaged in activities that you are naturally skilled in, therefore increasing self-confidence and efficacy, and learning to ‘catch’ anxious thoughts.” Kennedy feels that medication is important for some patients with anxiety, but says he avoids the use of Benzodiazepines, a class of medication that can become addictive. Instead he prefers to use SSRI’s or SNRI’s, a class of antidepressant medication that is proven effective. Before taking medication Kennedy’s advice is simple. “Turn off (negative) TV and Internet news, attend church, speak with your pastor, get enough sleep, increase exercise, and if it starts to affect you physically or functionally, see your doctor.” v Mary Ashton Mills lives in Augusta with her husband and two children. Her work has appeared in Charleston Magazine, The Post and Courier and Augusta Family Magazine.

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inspirationstation by Lucy Adams

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Sowing the Seeds of a Special Summer Camp Camp IVEY To Provide Camp Experience for High-Functioning Children With Developmental Delays

hen 8-year-old Katherine Ivey asked her mother, Sterling, when she would get a chance to go to overnight camp like older sister Ansley, age 14, and older brother Patrick, age 16, the innocent request hit a chord with Sterling. It never occurred to her that Katherine would want to go to summer camp. But then she thought, â&#x20AC;&#x153;What child wouldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to go to camp?â&#x20AC;? Canoeing and archery and campfires and nighttime cricket sounds sing to the heart of a kid. This is the stuff summer is made of. Nonetheless, Sterling knew she would have to find just the right place, just the right experience for Katherine, now 10, who was diagnosed with a chromosome deletion at 18 months old. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wanted it to be an overnight camp, and I wanted it to be for high-performing kids with developmental delays,â&#x20AC;?

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says Sterling. â&#x20AC;&#x153;And I wanted it to be fun.â&#x20AC;? A calendar filled with therapy sessions and daily struggles to perform basic tasks screams for a reprieve. Sterling desired for her child to know the carefree days of summer camp. She diligently searched for a paradise of youth for her youngest, but it remained elusive. The camp that most closely fit Katherineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs was located in Vermont. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I wanted to pack her trunk and drive her three hours,â&#x20AC;? says Sterling, â&#x20AC;&#x153;not put her on a plane.â&#x20AC;?

A Determined Mom Sterling was undaunted. A survivor of two fights against cancer, she knows how to face a challenge headon. If she couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t find a nearby camp, she would start one for Katherine and kids like her who need a summer

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camp offering extra supervision and adapted activities. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know what her limitations or possibilities will be,â&#x20AC;? Sterling says, â&#x20AC;&#x153;so letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s shoot for the moon.â&#x20AC;? Investigations into nearby facilities capable of hosting Sterlingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s proposed camp raised a new set of concerns, however, primarily financial. She was quoted a base price of $30,000. Additional fees would push that number higher. By this time, Katherine was 9, and Sterling was afraid that if this camp thing took too much longer she would miss the window of Katherine wanting to go to camp. A thick white binder corrals Sterlingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s collection of brochures, papers, notes and communications. Flipping through it, she points out the information from the camp in Vermont and runs her finger along the margin of a sheet listing ideas about the ideal camp for children with developmental delays. Volumes of research spill between the pages. She has

inspirationstation done her homework. “One in six children has developmental delays. It impacts walking and talking and playing and writing…” and Sterling names a dozen other routine activities most parents never think about. “I didn’t realize how passionate I was until I was talking about it in front of a room full of strangers.” She put her whole heart and her binder on the table when Wilson Family Y Director Krystal McGee invited her input on the Camp Lakeside renovations.

Perfect Timing In fact, the timing of the Camp Lakeside renovation project could not have been more perfect. The capital campaign to raise money to build new structures and adapt existing ones for special needs populations is in full swing. Children’s Hospital of Georgia plans to hold its camps, such Camp Rainbow, Camp Sweet Life, Camp Share and Care, and others, for medically fragile and disabled children at the new Camp Lakeside. “It’s becoming a completely accessible camp. It will be medically safe for physically challenged children,” says Millie Huff, the Family Y’s community relations director. Remote restrooms, paved pathways, accessible cabins, medical quarters and an accessible multi-purpose facility will create a camp to serve all CSRA children. It’s shaping up to be the perfect place for a week-long camp for Katherine and the children with whom she hopes to share memories savored for a lifetime. The idea spurred by a child’s small voice finally grew its roots in August 2014. Danny McConnell, President and CEO of the Family YMCA of Greater Augusta, took Sterling’s wished-for Camp IVEY— Inspiring Very Exceptional Youth—under the Y’s umbrella of programs planned for the new Camp Lakeside facility, which is projected to re-open in 2016. “Sterling kind of found us,” explains McConnell. “God puts people together in life and this was one of those occasions for me.” Camp IVEY at Camp Lakeside will be an annual week of overnight camp for high-performing children with developmental delays. “We can take the passion of one person and turn it into something that benefits a lot of people. I believe that’s where this thing is headed,” says McConnell Much organizational work in terms how the camp itself will operate remains to be done. Yet, optimism is in the air. In October, an anonymous $20,000 donation was made to the Family Y in support of Camp IVEY. In addition, 75 percent of the funds raised by Reid on the Run on February 7 will benefit Camp IVEY. More funds are needed, but the seed money is there. Sterling summarizes, “It’s no longer a family starting a camp. It’s the Y hosting it.” She feels immensely blessed. Best of all, Camp IVEY won’t even require local parents to drive their child and his or her trunk three hours away. It will be right here at home on the shores of Clarks Hill. But still a world away from the frustrations and cares of everyday life, in a place where canoeing and archery and campfires and nighttime cricket sounds sing to the heart of a kid. That’s the stuff summer is made of. What child wouldn’t want an experience like that? v LUCY ADAMS is the author of Tuck Your Skirt in Your Panties and Run. She lives in Thomson, Ga., with her husband and their four children.

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calendar Feb. 2015

The Circus Is Coming to Town 3JOHMJOH #SPT BOE #BSOVN #BJMFZÂ&#x2030;#VJMU 5P "NB[F heads to the James Brown Arena February 5-8. Experience all the things you know and love and be amazed by things youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve never seen before! Witness superhuman stunts so close you can feel it! Astonishing performers, awe-inspiring athletes and amazing animals from around the globe will be assembled in one place providing a riveting display of unimaginable proportions that are engineered for excitement and custom built for family fun! 'FC Q N 'FC B N BOE Q N 'FC Q N BOE Q N 'FC Q N XXX BVHVTUBFOUFSUBJONFOUDPNQMFY DPN

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calendar SPECIAL EVENTS February 3. Oswald Writer’s Series. A public reading and book signing by Terrance Hayes. 8 p.m. USC-Aiken Etherredge Center. 803-641-3305. February 5-8. Antiques in the Heart of Aiken. Specialized dealers from across the nation showcase and sell fine antiques such as 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 5-8. Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Presents Built To Amaze. The whole crew of elephants, aerialists, acrobats, jugglers and clowns storm the James Brown Arena to entertain children of all ages. Feb. 5, 7 p.m. Feb. 6, 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m. Feb. 7, 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Feb. 8, 1 p.m. www. augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. February 6. Re-New & Brew. This 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. 7-11 p.m. Snelling Center. 3165 Washington Rd. 706-650-5760. February 7. Annual Lucy Craft Laney Heritage Gala. Dinner, live music, silent auction and keynote speaker. 6-10 p.m. Augusta Convention Center. 706-724-3576. February 20. Wine, Women and Shoes. Enjoy a night of fun, wine and shopping while supporting the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Augusta. 7-10 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. For tickets and information, 706-724-5901 or www.rmhcaugusta. org.

February 27-March 1. Augusta Home and Garden Show. Turn your home and garden dreams into reality. With thousands of square feet of exhibits, you’ll find the latest in products and services for everything from builders, contractors, materials, decks, pools, kitchens, baths, entertainment systems, plants, landscape displays/materials, kitchenware and more. Feb. 27, 2-7 p.m. Feb. 28, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. March 1, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. James Brown Arena. www. augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. February 28. Second Annual Storybook Brunch. The magical morning begins with a hearty breakfast followed by a parade of favorite storybook characters. Children are encouraged to dress up as their favorite storybook character. VIP sponsor seating at 8:30 a.m. and general seating 11 a.m. Tickets can be purchased at sfbf.net/StorybookBrunch. Benefits the Southeastern Firefighters Burn Foundation. 650BURN (2876). February 28. Bill Cosby. The famed comic’s success spans five decades and virtually all media. 8 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. February 28. Wet Paint Party and Sale. Beautiful and affordable art by local artists goes up for auction at the Greater Augusta Arts Council’s annual Wet Paint Party. Vintage fashion show, delicious appetizers, a cash bar and two art auctions, each with its own twist. 7 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. www.augustaarts.com.

MUSEUM AND SCIENCE EVENTS February 4. Brown Bag History Lecture: Fighting Fires Over Time. Lt. Joey Smith of the Augusta Fire Department serves as guest speaker. Bring a lunch; beverages provided. Refreshments served at 11:30 a.m. Lecture, 12:30-1 p.m. Reservations not required. Augusta Museum of History. 706-7228454.4.

Phinizy Center Swamp & Nature Park February 21. Heart Ball. Sponsored by the American Heart Association, this event promises to be an inspiring celebration of the organization’s work, volunteers and donors. 6:30 p.m. Augusta Marriott. 803-806-3063. www.crsaheartball.com. February 20-22. Battle of Aiken. See what life was like for a Civil War soldier during the 19th annual reenactment of the Battle of Aiken. The weekend features battle reenactments, living history exhibits, period dancing and music. Gates open 8:30 a.m. daily. Confederate Memorial Park. 1210 Powell Pond Rd. (Exit 18, I-20). www.battleofaiken.org.

1858 Lock and Dam Rd., Augusta. 706-828-2109 or Email: info@phinizycenter.org. www.phinizycenter.org. February 7. Swamp Saturday. Enjoy a guided, leisurely hike through approximately 2.5 miles of nature park trails. Children & adults will enjoy viewing the variety of wildlife and learning about the diverse plant life & importance of urban wetland ecology. Please wear comfortable closed toe shoes & bring water to drink. Strollers are welcome. No dogs, please. We leave from the Swamp Shop & Visitor’s Center at 9:30AM.

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Spaces are limited. *Groups, clubs or organizations please ask about Group Tours February 14. Yoga in the Park. Free! Yoga means ‘union,’ and when it’s practiced outdoors it seems like the union with nature, humanity, and the universe is truly felt. Being outside can intensify the yoga experience in many ways – focusing awareness, breathing deeply, practicing stillness. Please meet at The Swamp Shop & Visitor’s Center. This class is for ALL LEVELS, please bring with you your yoga mat & water. (Class will be indoors during the cold season or in the case of inclement weather.) 9:30-11 a.m. February 14. Valentine’s Picnic in the Park. A romantic, guided dusk walk through the beautiful Nature Park trails followed by hot cocoa and sweet treats under a blanket by the warmth of a fire with the gentle serenade of an acoustic guitar and the soothing sounds of the Swamp. Share a cozy evening with your Valentine under the stars. Couples should wear comfortable closed toe shoes and bring water to drink. No dogs, please. Group leaves from the Swamp Shop & Visitor’s Center at 6 p.m.. Spaces are limited. Age 18 and older. Call 396-1426 for fees and registration.

Reed Creek Nature Park and Interpretive Center 3820 Park Lane, Martinez. 706-721-4027. www.ReedCreekPark.com. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Call to pre-register. February 21. Simply Science: Squishy Sensations. Learn the steps of the scientific method as we create slimy, squishy, bouncy, springy balls out of different materials. ehobbs@columbiacountyga.gov. 10-11:30 a.m. February 27. All About Frogs. Enjoy this indoor and outdoor program to learn about our local frogs and how they are being studied through a calling survey at Reed Creek Park. Go outdoors to listen to frogs using the calling survey protocol. 7-8 p.m.

THE ARTS, MUSIC AND MORE February 1-27. Marianna Williams Exhibition. Paintings and mixed-media. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art. 706-722-5495. February 1-27. Art Exhibition: Judy Avrett and Lucy Weigle. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706826-4700.

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SEWING CLASSES MY BEST FRIEND'S SEWING ROOM 3850 Washington Rd. 706-993-8819 or mybfsewingroom@yahoo.com. www.mybestfriendssewingroom.com. Call or email for class fees. Pre-registration is required for all classes and events. February 2. Feeling Quilty. Calling all quilters. Bring your quilt and sew a while. WIP’s (Works in Progress) are especially welcome. Bring a sack lunch. 10-2 p.m. This is a free adult event. February 5, 12, 19 & 26. Stitching’s Cool. This after-school club meets Thursdays and is for kids dedicated to learning sewing on a weekly basis. Must commit to the entire month. 4:30-6 p.m. Ages 9 & up February 5. Project Funway for Teens. This monthly club is a beginning sewing class for the older girls. A new sewing technique will be taught each month. For ages 13 & up. February 5 & 19. Sewing Lab. Do you have some sewing projects to work on, but your sewing room is a hot mess? Or perhaps you’d enjoy the company of other sewers? Bring your own project, supplies and thread and rent a machine. 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. For adults only. February 14. Mommy and Me. Make a Valentine’s Day date with your daughter and sew heart-shaped pillows. Supplies are included. 10-12 p.m. Children must be ages 9 & up. February 16 & 17. Kids Sewing Camp. School is out, so come learn the sewing basics in this 2-day camp and complete two cool projects. Bring a sack lunch. 10-2 p.m. Ages 9 & up. February 19. Sew Blessed. An open sewing event for adults. Bring your own project and borrow a sewing machine. Plus, a fabric bowl will be taught, kit included. Requesting donation to Julie’s House in lieu of class fee. Bring a sack lunch. 10-1 p.m. February 19. Head Wrap. Donate your time and make a head wrap for a cancer patient. All head wraps will be given to 3 Chicks, LLC, for their head wrap program. Adults or teen sewists. 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Free. February 21. Sewing Seeds Club. Learn the basics of sewing, a valuable life skill, while completing a fun project. Sewing machine and kit provided. This club meets the third Saturday of every month. 10-12 p.m. Ages 9 & up. February 27. Sip and Sew. Make a burlap door hanger at this open sewing event. Beginners are welcome. Sewing kit included. 7-9 p.m. This class is for adults only. February 28. American Girl Doll Party. Make a blanket and pillow for your American Girl doll at this open event. Don’t forget your doll! 10-12 p.m. Ages 9 & up.

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calendar February 1-March 20. Lillie Morris Exhibition. Multimedia and collage. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art. 706-722-5495. February 6. The Annie Moses Band. A Christian family of Juilliard-trained musicians and award-winning songwriters dedicated to virtuosity in the arts. 7:30 p.m. Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center. 706-726-0366 or www.augustaamusements.com. February 7. American Ballet Theater Studio Company. American Ballet Theatre’s Studio Company is a classical ensemble made up of 14 dancers of outstanding potential. The mission of ABT Studio Company is to train young dancers in preparation for entering American Ballet Theatre’s main company or other leading national and international professional ballet companies. The Studio Company performances at the Imperial Theatre will feature Stephen Mills’ Hush and Antony Tudor’s Little Improvisations and excerpts from Marius Petipa’s Le Corsaire and Merce Cunningham’s Duets. Presented by the Augusta Ballet. 7 p.m. at the Imperial Theatre. 706-261-555 or www.augustaballet.org. February 12 and 13. The Swingle Singers. Based in London, the Swingle Singers are an international a cappella phenomenon. These seven young and versatile voices deliver folk, classical, jazz, Latin and pop music with equal precision and passion. Presented by the Aiken Performing Arts Group. 7:30 p.m. URS Theater. Aiken. 803-643-4774.

Keyboard Rockers. Featuring the love songs of Carole King, Billy Joel, Elton John and Stevie Wonder. As performed by the Symphony Orchestra Augusta. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.soaugusta.org or 706-826-4705. February 14. Back on Broadway. Ten star-struck performers arrive in the Big Apple looking for their big break on Broadway. With their newfound book, How To Succeed on Broadway, how could they possibly fail? Celebrate the magic of the Great White Way through dazzling production numbers performed by the next generation of Broadway stars. Part of the USC-Aiken Cultural Series. 7:30 p.m. USC-Aiken Etherredge Center. 803-641-3305. February 20. The Suchon Wind Quintet With Michiko Otaki. The Suchon Quintet consists of the leading wind players of the Slovak Sinfonietta Zilina. As the oldest chamber ensemble within the Sinfonietta, the wind quintet embarks on its first tour in the United States. They will be joined by Michiko Otaki, renowned concert pianist, who tours often as a soloist and collaborative pianist with chamber ensembles. Part of the Harry Jacobs Chamber Music Series. 7:30 p.m. Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre. GRU campus. 706-667-4100. February 20-22. West Side Story. Presented by the Augusta Players. Feb. 20-21, 8 p.m. Feb. 22, 3 p.m. Imperial Theatre. For tickets, www.augustaplayers.org.

February 12. Winter Jam 2015. Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling rockers Skillet return to the famed Winter Jam stage to headline the blockbuster tour’s 20th year. Founded and hosted by Grammynominated NewSong, the tour will also feature Jeremy Camp, Francesca Battistelli, Building 429, For King & Country, Family Force 5 and evangelist Tony Nolan. The LifeWay Christian Stores pre-jam party is slated to showcase Blanca, About A Mile and VERIDIA. 7 p.m. James Brown Arena. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

February 21. Beethoven’s Second. Conte’s Sinfonietta, Bruch’s Kol Nidrei, Beethoven’s Symphony No. 2, and Paganini’s Variations on the G String on a Theme From Rossini’s Moses. Featuring Milton Masciadri, bass. 7:30 p.m. First Baptist of Augusta. Feb. 20, 8 p.m. Aiken’s First Baptist Church. www. soaugusta.org or 706-826-4705.

February 13. California Guitar Trio. The group crisscrosses the universe of rock, jazz, world music, surf music and classical in its performances and recordings. 7:30 p.m. Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center. 706-726-0366 or www.augustaamusements.com.

February 24. Richmond County All Elementary School Choral Festival. 7 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4700.

February 13. Southern Soul and Song: Sam Bush. The father of newgrass and mandolin virtuoso Sam Bush performs. 7:30 p.m. Imperial Theatre. 706722-8341. February 13. A Tribute to Carole King and the Great

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February 24. GRU Choral Ensemble. 7:30 p.m. Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre. GRU campus. 706-667-4100.

February 25. Heart. Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductees Ann and Nancy Wilson first showed the world that women can rock when their band Heart stormed the charts in the ’70s with hits like “Crazy on You,” “Magic Man,” “Barracuda,” “Straight On” and many more. Not only did the Wilson sisters lead the band, they wrote the songs and played the instruments too, making them the first women in rock to do so. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.

calendar augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. February 26. GRU Wind Ensemble. 7:30 p.m. Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre. GRU campus. 706667-4100. February 27-28, March 1 and 6-7. Auntie Mame. Auntie Mame was a sparkling, scatterbrained and warm-hearted lady who brightened the American landscape in the late 1920s through her whimsical gaiety, her slightly madcap adventures and her devotion to her young nephew. Feb. 27-28 and March 6-7 at 8 p.m. March 1 at 3 p.m. Aiken Community Playhouse. 803-648-1438.

Morris Museum of Art 1 Tenth St. 706-724-7501 or www.themorris.org. February 1. Artrageous! Family Sunday: Sixth Annual Book Reading Spectacular. Coco Rubio, Gavin Hamilton and Sala Adenike Jeter-Allen read music-themed children’s stories. Afterwards create your own artist book. Free. 2 p.m. February 1-15. An Artist’s Story: Civil War Drawings by Edwin Forbes. This exhibition features the work of a leading 19th-century-American landscape painter and etcher Edwin Forbes, who first came to public attention as a very young artist for his dramatic and detailed Civil War sketches. He is known for the vividness and blunt truthfulness of his imagery. February 1–March 1. Knowledge in Depth: Sculpture by Brian Dettmer. Widely known for his alteration of preexisting media such as old books, maps, record albums and cassette tapes, contemporary artist Brian Dettmer earned a BA in fine arts from Columbia College Chicago, where his principal fo-

cus was painting. His signature technique is exposing select images and text in books to create intricate, three-dimensional works that reveal new or alternative interpretations of the books. February 1-April 12. American Dreams: Paintings by John Mellencamp. According to Mellencamp, “German painting remains the basic foundation for what I do, same as folk music is the foundation of my songs. Discovering Beckmann to me was like discovering Woody Guthrie or Bob Dylan.” American Dreams: Paintings by John Mellencamp features 50 oil and mixed-media paintings, including several that have never been seen by the public. February 5. Mommy and Me: Beautiful Books! View an exhibition by book sculptor Brian Dettmer. Afterwards, tell your own story in a handmade book. Registration required. Call for fees and to register. 10-11 a.m. February 5. Art Now Artists Talk: Brian Dettmer. Learn how sculptor Brian Dettmer transforms books and found objects into intricate assemblages. Free. 6-8 p.m. February 6. Films on Friday: King Creole (1958). After viewing the film, museum director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion. Participants are invited to bring a lunch. Free. Noon. February 10. Southern Circuit Film Series: Brothers Hypnotic. The film details the formation of the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, eight sons of jazz maverick Phil Cohran. After viewing the movie, participate in a question-and-answer session with filmmaker Reuben Atlas. Free. 6 p.m. February 15. Lecture: Joni Mabe the Elvis Babe.

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Artist Joni Mabe discusses her fabulous Elvisthemed work on display. Free. 1 p.m. February 15. Music at the Morris: Jeff Barnes. Award-winning Elvis tribute artist performs your favorite tunes by the King of Rock and Roll. Free. 2 p.m. February 20. Art at Lunch: Expressionism, NeoExpressionism and the Art of Mellencamp. Michael Schwartz, art historian and professor of art history and humanities at GRU, discusses expressionist and neo-expressionist art movements, correlating historic images with painting by John Mellencamp. Catered lunch. Paid reservations due by Feb. 18. Noon. February 21. Draw with the Morris: Charcoal with Cyndy Epps. Open to any skill levels. All supplies included. This begins a six-session series, but participants can choose to take one or more sessions. Call to register and for fee information. 1-3 p.m.

SPORTS February 22. GRU Augusta Half Marathon and 10K. Presented by Augusta Family Insurance, this event is billed as the half as long, twice as cool race. Gentle stretch yoga offered at the finish line by Oxygen Fitness. Race starts and finishes at Lake Olmstead. 8 a.m. For more information, 706823-6609.

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.

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calendar CHIC 2015â&#x20AC;&#x201D;University Hospital and The Augusta Chronicle's Premiere Women's Event 4BUVSEBZ 'FCSVBSZ t B N Q N Columbia County Exhibition Center 212 Partnership Drive, Grovetown. Bring your girlfriends for a day of fashion, beauty, fitness, health, shopping and more. 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. This event is free and open to the public. University Hospitalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Heart Attack & Stroke Prevention team will be on site to provide a limited number of plaque scans on a first-come, first-serve basis. Plaque scans check the carotid artery for early signs of heart disease. Âˇ Lipid profile: LDL, HDL, triglycerides and total cholesterol Âˇ Blood sugar Âˇ Blood pressure Âˇ Information on a variety of health services with an impact on women's health, including women's services; University Hospital Vein Center; Weight Management and Bariatric Surgery; Grovetown UMC Primary Care, Prompt Care and Wound Care; Cancer; Diabetes; Orthopaedics and more.

February 2-27. Adult Spring Athletic Registration. Divisions: Open Coed & Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Open, Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s & Womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church, Openâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Coed Church & Openâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Industrial. 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday at Diamond Lakes Regional Park Adult Complex, 108 Diamond Lakes Way, Hephzibah. Call 706771-2980. February 16-20. Youth Baseball & Softball Registration. Coed T-Ball (boys & girls ages 5-6); Pitching Machine Baseball & Softball (boys & girls ages 7-8); Live Pitch Baseball & Softball (boys & girls ages 9-10); Dixie Youth Boys Baseball (boys ages 11-12); Midget Girls Fast Pitch Softball (girls ages 11-12); Junior Boys Baseball (boys ages 13-14) Junior Girls Fast Pitch Softball (girls ages 13-14). Registration from noon-6 p.m. Monday-Friday.

Columbia County Recreation Department 5445 Columbia Road, Grovetown. 706-863-7523.

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February 2â&#x20AC;&#x201C;13. Spring Baseball & Softball Registration. Baseball, boys, ages 7-14. (Age control date: May 1, 2015.) Softball, girls, ages 7-12. (Age control date: December 31, 2014.) T-Ball, coed, ages 4-6. (Age control date: May 1, 2015.)

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 7. GRU Jaguars/Little League Baseball Clinic. Held at the Augusta GreenJackets Baseball stadium, Milledge Road, Augusta. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. February 7. Live Registration Event. Held at Dick's Sporting Goods, Augusta Mall. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. February 18. Registration Closes: Majors. February 19. Majors Tryouts. 6-8 p.m. 1475 Collins Dr., Martinez. February 19. Majors Draft. 8010 p.m. 1475 Collins Dr., Martinez. February 20. Registration Closes: Minors and Machine Pitch. February 21. Minors and Machine Pitch Tryouts. 6-8 p.m. 1475 Collins Dr., Martinez. February 22. Minors and Machine Pitch Drafts. 6-8 p.m. 1475 Collins Dr., Martinez.

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: Mondayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Adapted fitness at the Kroc Center, 2-4 p.m. and wheelchair basketball at Garrett Elementary School, 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Swimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and quad rugby at the Kroc Center, 6-8 p.m. Wednesdayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Wheelchair basketball, 6:30-8 p.m. Thursdayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Swimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and Adapted Fitness at the Kroc Center, 3-5 p.m.

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Fridayâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;Adapted cycling at the uptown VA, 1:302:30 p.m.

The Family Y 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 2. Registration for Menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Basketball at the Wilson Family Y. Season begins March 16. Registration ends March 2. Ages 18 and up. February 2â&#x20AC;&#x201C;April 19. Miracle League Baseball Registration. Miracle League is a baseball league specifically designed for youth and adults with physical and developmental disabilities. Spring season will be April 25-June 13. Games are played on a rubberized surface field at the Miracle League Field behind the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center on Wrightsboro Road. Games will be Saturday mornings between 10 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. For more information, contact Rina White at 706-922-9597. February 9â&#x20AC;&#x201C;March 5. Wilson Family YMCA Swim Lessons. Offering swim lessons for all ages and skill levels, ages 6 months to adult beginners. Lessons are held in four-week sessions with twice weekly classes held Mondays & Wednesdays, Tuesdays & Thursdays, or Saturdays. Open to Family Y members and non-members. February 9-March 15. T-Ball School Registration. T-Ball School offered at the Aiken County, Augusta South, Marshall, Steiner Branch and Wilson Family YMCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Ages 3-4 years (Aiken County & Augusta South), Ages 4-5 years (Marshall, Steiner Branch and Wilson). Season begins April 27. February 9-March 15. Spring Baseball Registration. Spring Baseball is offered at the Aiken County and Wilson Family YMCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Season begins April 27. Ages 5-6 years old (Aiken County), Ages 6-12 years old (Wilson). February 9-March 15. Spring Coach Pitch Baseball. Coach pitch baseball leagues offered at the Marshall and Steiner Branch Family YMCAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s. Season begins April 27. Ages 6-7 years. February 10â&#x20AC;&#x201C;28. Swim Team at the Wilson Family YMCA. Swim Team 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. For ages 6-18 years old. Swim team sessions are Tuesdays/Thursdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. and Fridays, 5-6 p.m.

calendar February 13. Freedom Friday at Family YMCA of Augusta South. Fun, entertaining night from 4-8 p.m. for kids ages 8 weeks-12 years. Freedom Friday is free for active duty military families. Registration is required one week in advance. Valentine’s Date Night Out February 13. Wilson Family YMCA. February 14. Family YMCA of North Augusta and Family YMCA of Aiken County. Create time for you by giving your kids a fun evening at the Y. Kids will enjoy creative play, arts and crafts, and character development activities from 5:30-11 p.m. for ages 2-12. February 14 and 28. Parent’s Night Out at the Marshall Family YMCA. Open to children ages 2-12. Kids enjoy activities, games, crafts, and fun from 6 -9:30 p.m. while parents enjoy a night out. Food provided by Chick-fil-A or Papa John’s pizza. February 16. School Days Out at Family YMCA of North Augusta. Learning doesn’t end when school is out. We continue the love of learning through interactive games, creative arts and character develop-

ment of school-aged students. Please bring a lunch, snack and water bottle. Pre-registration is required. February 16 & 17. School Days Out at Wilson Family YMCA. Learning does not end when school is out. We want to continue the love of learning through interactive games, creative arts and character development activities for school-aged kids. School Days Out activities from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Early drop-off at 7 a.m. and late pick-up until 6 p.m. are available at no additional cost. February 21. Parent’s Night Out at Family YMCA of Aiken County. Open to children ages 2-12, with care from 5:30-9 p.m. Kids enjoy activities and fun while parents enjoy a night out. February 21. Parent’s Night Out at the Steiner Branch Family YMCA. Open to children ages 2-12. Kids enjoy activities, games, crafts and fun from 6–9:30 p.m. while parents enjoy a night out. Food provided by Marco’s Pizza. February 28. Parent’s Night Out at Family YMCA of Augusta South. Fun, entertaining night from 6-9:30

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p.m. for kids ages 8 weeks-12 years. February 28. Dodgeball Tournament at the Wilson Family YMCA. Proceeds from the tournament will go towards the Wilson Family YMCA Annual Campaign. Registration is open until February 14. Drop and Shop Programs Family Y of Augusta South. Drop your kids off and take the morning to go shopping, hang out with friends or just relax. No reservation needed. Monday–Friday from 8:30 am-noon for ages 8 weeks-4 years. . Family Y of North Augusta. Drop your kids off and enjoy a productive morning while your kids have fun at the Y! Monday-Friday from 9 am-noon. C. Ongoing. Adapted Aquatics Special Populations at the Wilson Family Y. Individual half-hour classes (one-to-one ratio) for individuals of all ages affected by physical or cognitive disabilities and individuals needing aquatic rehabilitation. Specially trained staff use swimming and aquatic fitness skills to improve participant’s independence and quality of life. By

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calendar $FMFCSBUF #MBDL )JTUPSZ .POUI -Salvation Army Kroc CenterFebruary 4-March 11. Leonard Jones Art Exhibit. Free and open to the community. Enjoy the work of this Georgia folk artist in the Kroc Center Community Wing between 10 and 11:30 a.m. February 19. Discovering Dave: Film. Free and open to the community. This film tells the story of Dave Drake, a slave from Edgefield, S.C., who created pottery in the 1800s. Post-film discussion with George Wingard of the Savannah River Archeological Research Program. 6:30-8 p.m. All ages welcome.

The Salvation Army Kroc Center 1833 Broad Street, Augusta. www.krocaugusta.org. 706-364-KROC or info@krocaugusta.org. February 3, 10, 17 & 24. Toddler Tuesday. Walkers up to 5 years. Enjoy the splash area and more. One adult is free per child admission. Parent must remain with the child. Swim diaper and plastic pants are required for infants and toddlers. 10:30 a.m.-noon. February 3-26. Swim Lessons: Still Krocin'. Ages 16 and up. Learn to swim or improve your skills. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11-11:45 a.m. or 7:15-8 p.m. Call to register and for fees.

February 21. Books & Brushes. Families are invited to join us as we learn about the underground railroad by reading Follow the Drinking Gourd and creating an art project based on it. All ages welcome. Reservations required. 10-11:30 a.m.

February 4, 11, 18 & 25. Kroc Kids. Free and open to the community. Ages 4 years through 12th grade. Youth of all ages will build character, explore personal strengths, develop life skills, make music and more. Program separated by age. 5 p.m. Call Kroc Church at 706-364-4278 for details.

appointment onlyâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;call Claudia Collins at 706-9229664.

February 6, 13, 20 & 27. Kroc Tots Activity Hour. Ages 18 months to 5 years. An action-packed play date for parents and toddlers featuring childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

Ongoing. Tae Kwon Do at the Family Y. Lessons offered for all skill levels ages 5 and up at the Family Y of Aiken County, Family Y of North Augusta, Family Y of Augusta South and Wilson Family Y. Lessons are twice a week, days vary by branch. Ongoing. Birthday Parties at the Y. Fun happens at the Y! Celebrate family milestones or plan your next event at the Y. Two-hour rental of activity rooms at various Y locations offered. Prices, fees and times vary. Contact your local Y for details. Ongoing. Family Y BlazeSports Team. Swim team for all ages for physically challenged swimmers to train for competition. Part of the BlazeSports Clubs of America training future Paralympians) Fee: $35/month for members; $50/month for nonmembers. Ongoing. Family Y Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson Disease Aquatics Class. Sponsored by the CSRA Parkinson Support Group and The Family Y. Group class designed specifically for ambulatory participants affected by Multiple Sclerosis and Parkinson Disease. Monday and Friday at noon at the Wilson Family YMCA indoor pool. For more information, call Claudia Collins for fee and registration at 706-922-9664.

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February 6. Kids' Night Out. Ages 2-12. Activities may include swimming, gym play, inflatables or crafts. Dinner included. Children must be potty trained. Children ages 5 and up should wear a swimsuit, bring a towel and change or clothes and wear tennis shoes. 6-10 p.m. Call to register and for fees. February 7, 14, 21 & 28. Lifeguarding Saturday Classes. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. February 7. Acrylics: Water Lillies. Ages 15 and up. Learn to paint like master impressionist Claude Monet in this step-by-step acrylic painting class led by Sharon Taylor Padgett. All levels are welcome. Supplies included. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Call for fee. February 9-21. Lifeguarding Two-Week Class. Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 6-10 p.m., Saturday from 8 a.m.-3 p.m. February 19. Coffee and Canvases. Ages 13 and up. Relax after a long day by letting your artistic side loose and creating your own masterpiece. No experience necessary. Great to enjoy with a group of friends. Coffee, cookies and canvases

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provided. 6:30-8:30 p.m. February 21. First Aid, CPR & AED. Be prepared to respond to common first aid emergencies including burns, cuts, head, neck and back injuries and cardiac and breathing emergencies in adults, as well as the use of automated external defibrillators (AED). 10 a.m.-2 p.m. February 21. Books & Brushes: Follow the Drinking Gourd. Read a specially selected book and create an art project based on it. Ages 3 and up. 10-11:30 a.m. February 21. Manga Club. Ages 10 and up. Join Xavier Jones to learn techniques for drawing Manga style artwork. No previous experience needed. Supplies provided. 1-5 p.m. Call for fees. February 21. Drawing Boot Camp. Ages 15 and up. Nanette Langner will introduce basic skills and techniques used in drawing. Perfect for beginners or those who want to refresh their skills. Supplies included in fee. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. February 21. Gourd Chickens. Create a whimsical folk art chicken for your home with Suzanne Simoneau. Open to all levels. Supplies included in fee. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. February 26, 27 & 28. Basketweaving: Nantucket. Ages 17 and up. Make beautiful and functional baskets with North Carolina weaver Joni Dee Ross. Emphasis is on beginners, but all levels are welcome. Call 706-922-0171 for supply fees. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. February 27. Family Movie Night. This event is free 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 first-come first-served basis. Refreshments will be available for purchase. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Movie night begins at 6 p.m. February 28. Cupcakes and Canvases. Ages 5-12. Create your own mini-masterpiece and enjoy a sweet treat. Register alone or in a group. 10 a.m.-noon. February 28. Intro to Painting: Horses. Ages 15 and up. Learn about equine anatomy, proportions and movement to create an equine-themed painting with Gretchen Hash Heffner. Open to all levels, but a basic knowledge of acrylics is recommended. Supplies included in fee. 10 a.m.-1 p.m.

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At the Ballet The American Ballet Theatre’s Studio Company is a classical ensemble made up of 14 dancers of outstanding potential. The mission of ABT Studio Company is to train young dancers in preparation for entering American Ballet Theatre’s main company or other leading national and international professional ballet companies. The Studio Company performances at the Imperial Theatre, February 7, will feature Stephen Mills’ Hush and Antony Tudor’s Little Improvisations, and excerpts from Marius Petipa’s Le Corsaire and Merce Cunningham’s Duets. Presented by the Augusta Ballet. Imperial Theatre. 706-261-555 or www.augustaballet.org Saturday, February 7 at 7 p.m. Imperial Theatre. 706-722-8341 or www.imperialtheatre.com.

FAMILY ACTIVITIES 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 898 Weinberger Way. 706-228-3636 or log on at augustajcc.org. Ongoing. The Mothers Circle. Free course, resources, education and events for women of other backgrounds raising Jewish children. Call for details. 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.

Classical Conversations 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.

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

meschoolers are welcome. Call 803-613-0484 or e-mail emilykohlbacher@hotmail.com.

HOSPITAL PROGRAMS Georgia Regents Health System Register online at gru.edu. Ongoing. Support Group for Families Who Have Lost a Baby During Pregnancy, Childbirth or Early Infancy. Call 706-721-8299 or visit their website.

North Augusta Homeschool Playgroup

February 3. 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.

Meets Thursdays at various North Augusta parks for play. Field trips will also be scheduled. All ho-

February 5. Infant CPR Training. This program al-

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lows families and those caring for infants to learn the core skills of infant CPR and relief of choking. Taught by a certified instructor. Registration required. Call 706-721-9351 or to go grhealth.org/classes. 6:308 p.m. Georgia Regents Medical Center, 7th Floor, Room 7001. February 5 & 18. 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 706-721-7606 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 6 & 11. Child Safety Seat Inspections. Four out of five car seats are used incorrectly. Schedule an appointment to make sure yours is installed properly. Feb. 6 in Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call Rene Hopkins, RN, at 706-721-7606 to schedule an appointment at the downtown location. Feb. 11 at Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Substation, 650 Ronald Reagan Dr. Call 706-541-3870 to make an appointment at the Columbia County location. February 11. 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 12 & 25. 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 17. Breastfeeding Class. A 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., Georgia Regents Medical Center, 7th Floor South, Room 7524.

%PDUPST )PTQJUBM 706-651-3232 or doctors-hospital.net.

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Call for class locations. Most classes held in Suite 310 of Medical Office Building One, 3623 J. Dewey Gray Circle, on the Doctors Hospital Campus.

February 17. 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 7 & 24. Safe Sitter. This nationally recognized program teaches students ages 11-13 safe and nurturing child care techniques, management and appropriate responses to medical emergencies. Call for time.

February 21. Stepping Into Manhood. Boys 12-15 accompanied by their father, male relative or friend, join the instructor in frank discussions on sexuality, peer pressure and responsible decision making. This course teaches teenage boys the importance of making their own decisions and how to assertively say "no."

February 3. Ready and Able. This three-session class is recommended for late pregnancy. Topics include childbirth process, comfort techniques, medications/epidurals, relaxation, and breathing techniques. Intended to be taken with Showing and Glowing. 7–9:30 p.m. Call 706-651-BABY (2229) to register. February 21 & 22. Short and Sweet. A weekend childbirth class covering the process of labor and delivery, comfort techniques and childbirth, medication/epidurals and relaxation and breathing techniques. 9 a.m.– 4:30 p.m. on the 21st and 1-5 p.m. on the 22nd. Call 706.651. BABY (2229) to register. February 12. Big Brother/Big Sister. Becoming a big brother or big sister is a big event! Class offers fun, educational, interactive activities so your children will be prepared to welcome the new baby. Call 706-651-BABY (2229) to register and for time.

5SJOJUZ )PTQJUBM PG "VHVTUB Call Women’s Health Services at 706-481-7727 or visit trinityofaugusta.com for information and registration. Please call for class times. February 7 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 10. Childbirth Education 101. Learn about the signs and symptoms of labor as well as labor and delivery. 6-8:30 p.m.

February 23. The Birds, The Bees and Me. This course brings together 12-15-year-old girls and their mother, female relative or friend for frank discussions on sexuality, peer pressure and responsible decision making. Course content deals with the changes, challenges and decisions that confront today's teenage girls.

6OJWFSTJUZ )FBMUI $BSF 4ZTUFN Call 706-774-2825 or logon at www.universityhealth. org/calendar for information. Registration is required for most programs. February 2-23 (Mondays), February 3-24 (Tuesdays) or February 4-25 (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 6 & 7 or 20 & 21. 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, questionand-answer session and review.

February 13. Breastfeeding Support Group. Help, understanding and guidance in breastfeeding.

February 19. Breastfeeding Class. This class offers in-depth 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 14. Growing Boys. Boys ages 9-12 accompanied by their father, male relative or friend will find helpful information on what to expect in the preadolescent years. Knowing what to expect can help boys weather this transition without undue anxiety, confusion and frustration.

February 26. 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. v

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Girl GO

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by Mallory Daniel

Ryan Rhodes, DVM | Exercise Enthusiast Ryan Rhodes, 31, is a veterinarian. She and her husband, Scott, director for TaxSlayer Books, have three children, Jones, 4, Landers, 2, and Collins, 1. Rhodes loves to work out and her one-word description of herself is “active.” She’s embarassed to admit it, but 19 Kids and Counting is her favorite TV show. “I love the way she speaks to and handles her children in such a calm and loving manner all the time, no yelling (at least not on camera). I would love to sit down and have a conversation with her about child-rearing. First job: Working at a veterinary clinic. Dream vacation: Tahiti. I want to stay in a hut on the water. Quality she admires the most: Loyalty. Favorite food: Chick-fil-A. Super power she’d like to have: To slow down time. (Most of the time.) Might surprise people about her: I take a nap any chance I get, which is not very often. Best thing about being a mom: The laughter and hugs and kisses. Hardest part about being a mom: Worrying if you are doing everything right to mold them into responsible people. Favorite Indulgence: Godiva chocolate trifle from 5 O’Clock Bistro. Planner, dreamer or doer? I would say a doer. I do not procrastinate and can’t stand it when people do. If something needs to be done, I do it. Of course I prioritize but eventually it will all get accomplished. I’m too busy to push things off until later. Greatest hope: To enjoy life, no regrets. Is inspired by: My kids.

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