Augusta Family Magazine May 2018 by Augusta Family Magazine

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Explore. Dream. Discover. GPS

GO. PLAY. SEE.

OUR GUIDE TO FAMILY FUN IN THE CSRA

augustafamily.com

feature GPS GO. PLAY. SEE.

our guide to family fun in the csra

27 4 â&#x20AC;¢ Augusta Family | May 2018

contents www.augustafamily.com

Departments 6 9

Features

27 GPS: Go. Play. See. —Naimah Shaw

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Explore. Dream. Discover.

37 Tiny Miracles

ON the cOver: VEDA SIMONE, 6, IS THE DAUGHTER OF LOCAL SINGER, SONGWRITER BETHANY DAVIS OF NORTH AUGUSTA.

GPS

GO. PLAY. SEE.

OUR GUIDE TO FAMILY FUN IN THE CSRA

augustafamily.com

Is your child ready for their “close up?” If you think you’ve got a “cover kid,” submit their photo and information on our website and they may grace the cover of Augusta Family Magazine.

Also, check out our contests and giveaways!

{ } Go to augustafamily.com —click on the contest page to find the current contests!

Facebook.com/ augustafamilymagazine

Mom to Mom

Cabbage Catastrophe -Paige Tucker

News & Notes

Eating Well With Kim

Refrigerator Salad Bar —Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE

Doctor Dad

Smart Mom’s Guide

-Dr. Dana Harris

GPS: Go. Play. See.

Editor’s Page

Take a Chill Pill! —J. Ron Eaker, M.D.

Entertaining Children on Road Trips —Cammie Jones

Raising Readers Readers in Nature —Meridith Flory

Inspiration Station

Calendar

Go Girl! Molly Senn —Renee Williams

SAIL —Dustin Turner

@AUGFamilyMag

Augusta Family | May 2018 • 5

AU G U S TA

Editor’s Notes b y Renee Williams

www.augustafamily.com

PUBLISHER Ashlee Griggs Duren

EDITOR Renee Williams

GRAPHIC DESIGN & PREPRESS /WEB PRODUCER Michael Rushbrook

DIRECTOR OF ADVERTISING Lisa Dorn

ADVERTISING SALES Doressa Hawes Maidi McMurtrie Thompson Mary Porter Vann

PHOTOGRAPHY John Harpring Chris Thelen

CONTRIBUTORS Kim Beavers, MS, RD, CDE J. Ron Eaker, M.D. Karen Gordon

elcome to our annual GPS Guide. In this issue, you can find fun for your family, learn about places to visit and gather local info on activities to help keep everyone in your family entertained with some fun and free things to do in the area. In addition to our guide of local attractions, Cammie Jones offers smart mom tips to entertaining kids on road trips and Meredith Flory encourages everyone to get out in nature and visit Mistletoe and Elijah Clark State Parks. In honor of Mother’s Day, Dr. Dana Harris shares a heartwarming story of her daughter’s journey of hope and courage. And, if you are looking to pamper and indulge yourself this holiday, we highlight Molly Senn of fab’rik boutique in our Go Girl section for the best chic and trendy clothing selections in town.

Dr. Dana Harris Meredith Flory Cammie Jones LeeAnn Rhoden Naimah Shaw Paige Tucker Dustin Turner

Finally, I would like to thank everyone at Augusta Family for all the hard work, dedication and passion they put into our publication each month. I am honored to recognize our collective efforts as Augusta Family recently won the 2017 silver award for the category of overall writing with the Parenting Media Association. This award recognizes superior, engaging writing throughout the publication.

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 renee.williams@augustafamily.com or mail to 725 Broad Street, Augusta, Ga., 30901. For advertising information, telephone (706) 823-3702. For circulation/distribution, call (706) 823-3722.

Once again, big thanks to our art director, Michael Rushbrook, and graphic designer, Olivia Rushbrook, for their creative use of art, design and photographs and ultimately for bringing home the 2017 silver editorial and design award for feature layout. It’s such an exciting time in Augusta and I am thrilled to connect and engage with families in the area and offer content in our magazine that serves across all platforms. Until June,

We look forward to hearing from you; visit our website www.augustafamily.com and on facebook and twitter. Facebook.com/ augustafamilymagazine @AUGFamilyMag

6 • Augusta Family | May 2018

Renee Williams renee.williams@augustafamily.com

2018 Physicians’ Directory Available Free for iPhone® and AndroidTM.

Download the Physicians’ Directory app for free and have contact information at your fingertips for Augusta and Aiken area physicians and dentists. Database is searchable by both specialty and by name. Brought to you by Augusta Magazine.

Mom to Mom

SOCCER CAMPS

Pa i g e T u c ke r

THE BULLS SOCCER CLUB WILL BE H TRYOUTS AND EVALUATIONS FOR AN AND GIRLS BORN IN 2002-201

players TO willPLAY be placed onTHIS a team forTRYthe Spring Se IF YOUThese ARE LOOKING SOCCER FALL, The Spring Season will START run from thru May. OUTS AND EVALUATIONS MAYJanuary 17. REGISTER ON January 8 Blanchard Soccer 4600EVALUATIONS Blanchard Woods Dr, E THE BULLS WEBSITE FORComplex TRYOUTS |AND

Cabbage Catastrophe

BullsPerformance Soccer ClubAcademyis the fastest growing youth soccer program in the C 1. The Coerver Blanchard Woods extreme pride in the development of our players and place them in a fun lear • Tuition- $675.00 training environment. The Bulls Soccer Club focuse • Ages 9-18, Days- Su, M, Tu, W, Th, F Times- 5.30pm - 8.30pm (3 sessions per evening) technical development of each player and featu Payment plan- Available of small-sided games and activities designe • For Additional Information technique, skill and control. The goal is to p http://www.coervercarolinaspa.com environment for players to develop and o achieve at the Mid 2. Coerver Performance Academy- Citizens Parkplaying Aiken 3opportunities Day a School and College Level. The Club see Week Program love to play the game, are dedicated to • Tuition- $365.00 • Ages 9-18, Days- Tues, Thursday, skills, are committed to developing as Times Tues/Thursday- 5.30pm - 8.30pm, building a strong club and team, and • Sat AM 9:00-12:00 FUN PLAYING THE GREAT GAME O

ome family friends of ours love to tell the story of me falling fast asleep, face first into a plate of coleslaw when I was eighteen months old. They were keeping me for the weekend and Cindy had worn me out, to say the least. She had taken me swimming, shopping and to feed ducks at the park. • (3 sessions per evening) Payment plan- Available After a day of fun, we met her husband for dinner. They put me in a • For Additional Information highchair and started feeding me right away. They couldn’t have looked http://www.coervercarolinaspa.com Go to www.ga-scbulls.com and click away for more than a quick second and the next thing they knew, I was out cold in the creamy cabbage. As Cindy tells it, it’s made for great fam3. Youth Soccer Development Weekend with Roby Stahl, Tony Mcily fodder over the years. FOR ADDITIONAL CALL THEFABULLS SOCCER CLUB AT 706 Callum, and SteveINFORMATION Richards from the English • June 29th, 30th and July 1 I’m sure moms can relate to that exhaustion this time of year, tryOR EMAIL BULLSDOC12@GMAIL.COM | WWW.GA-SCBULLS.C • $155.00 ing to keep up on the treadmill that is May! Julia Reynolds is still young These players will be placed a team for the Spring Season. • on Register at www.ga-scbulls.com enough that the end of the year hasn’t taken on a life of its own yet. The Spring But even with the few activities we’re involved in, there is a lotSeason to pack will run from January thru May. January 8th and 9th 4. CCRD Recreation Summer Soccer Day Camps hosted by the Bulls in before summer break. There are recitals, end of theBlanchard year parties and Soccer Complex | 4600 Soccer Club Blanchard Woods Dr, Evans plenty of last hoorahs for this and that. • June 18-22, July 9-13, July 23-27 I imagine mamas of large families must pray for June to come growing • Time 9am - 1pm The Bulls Soccer Club is the fastest youth soccer program in the CSRA. We take AN quick. I don’t know how my own mom did it with three active, involved • http://secure.rec1.com/GA/columbia-county-ga/catalog extreme pride in the development of our players and place them in a fun learning competitive children going in all different directions. There was a lot of “divide and These players will be placed on a team for the Spring Season. training environment. TheClub Bulls Soccer Club focuses onJanuary individual 5. Soccer IDJanuary Camp TheBulls Spring Season willCollege run from thru May. 8th and 9th conquer” in our household, but Wow, the “Mays” make for some fabutechnical development of each player and features a variety • Blanchard July 20th-July 23rd Soccer Complex | 4600 Blanchard Woods Dr, Evans lous family memories! of small-sided games and activities designed to improve • Register at www.ga-scbulls.com -Early Bird Discount is My mom says she feels so sentimental this time of year, as we all The Bulls Soccer Club is the fastest growing youth soccer program in the CSRA. We take available until 4-1-18 technique, skill and control. The goal is to provide the best do when thinking of the wonderful late springs she experienced raising extreme pride in the development of our players and place them in a fun learning competitive environment fortraining players to develop andSoccer offerClub a focuses route on to individual environment. The Bulls three children. From attending kindergarten graduations and honors 6. Bulls and Post to Post Soccer Camp with Steve Richards and technical development of Middle each player and features a variety achieve playing opportunities at the School, High days to planning prom picture gatherings, the memories are sweet. Roby Stahl of small-sided games and activities designed to improve School and College Level. The seeks who the best Buckle up, the dog days of summer will be here before you know it technique, skillClub and control. Theplayers goal is to provide • July 15th-July 20th 9:00AM-12:00PM 5:30PM-8:30PM for players develop and offer a route to play the game,environment are dedicated to toimproving their and another May’s memories with children in the nest will be a deposit love • to Register at www.ga-scbulls.com playing opportunities at the Middle School, High in life’s bank. I plan to savor each hoorah with my own family and those skills, are committedachieve to developing as players and to School and College Level. The Club seeks players who 7. Bulls Summer Soccer-School ofplay Excellence we celebrate and get as much rest as I can along the way... coleslaw face to the game, dedicated to improving their building a strong clublove and team, andare want to HAVE • June 11- July 20th Monday and Wednesday 6:00PM-7:00PM skills, are committed to developing as players and to is only cute when you’re a toddler! FUN PLAYING THE GREAT GAME OF SOCCER.

THE BULLS SOCCER CLUB WILL BE HOLDING TRYOUTS AND EVALUATIONS FOR ANY BOYS AND GIRLS BORN IN 2002-2010.

•

building a strong club and team, and want to HAVE Register at www.ga-scbulls.com FUN PLAYING THE GREAT GAME OF SOCCER.

After twelve years in local news, most recently as evening anchor of NBC 26, Paige Tucker is now a work-at-home mom and freelance journalist. She Go to www.ga-scbulls.com and click on theandRegister Go to www.ga-scbulls.com click on the Register produces two series for NBC 26 TV, First Responders and 26 Women Today, and you can see those stories on Tuesday nights. Paige and her husband have one ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CALL THE BULLS SOCCER CLUB AT 706-550-2858 FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION FOR CALL THE BULLS SOCCER CLUB AT 706-550-2858 OR EMAIL BULLSDOC12@GMAIL.COM | WWW.GA-SCBULLS.COM daughter, Julia Reynolds.

OR EMAIL BULLSDOC12@GMAIL.COM | WWW.GA-SCBULLS.COM

Augusta Family | May 2018 • 9

AND

Summer Camp THINK. CREATE. EXPLORE. • Summer 2018

OPEN TO ALL IN THE CSRA, AGES 3-18 Director Kenietha McRae: 706-434-2550

Join Us for

SUMMER GYMNASTICS CLASSES TWO WEEK SESSIONS COMING TWICE A WEEK Session 1 - June 5 - 14 • Session 2 - June 19 - 28 Session 3 - July 17 - 26 Preschool Classes Ages 18 months to 4 yrs Boys and Girls Developmental Classes Ages 5 and up Tumbling Ages 7 and up

Also, join us for CAMP FLIP FL OP and PRESC HOOL CAMP

news&notes May 2018

Motherhood: All love begins and ends there. ~Robert Browning

App-Tastic! The Colgate Connect E1

he Colgate Connect E1 Smart Electronic toothbrush works with the Colgate Connect companion app to track your brushing behavior. Using sensors and advanced algorithms, the brush and app can help you spot missed areas by tracking where and how you brush. Designed with the help of dentists, the brush also features sonic vibrating technology to thoroughly clean and protect your smile.

No phone nearby while brushing? No problem! The brush is smart enough to store your data and will automatically sync data to the app when you bring the phone close, so you are free to brush without your device nearby. Within the app you can monitor your progress with a personalized dashboard & 3-D Checkup. For kids of all ages! You can even turn the brush into a game controller and unleash your inner pirate with Go Pirate or brush your way through island adventures to healthy habits and a winning smile – argh! With Colgate Connect, you can brush your way to a healthy future and that is something we can all smile about! • • • • •

Sonic vibrating technology for effective cleaning. Intelligence embedded in the handle works as you brush. Monitor brushing duration and regularity to help improve your oral health. Game apps help you make progress by motivating you and your kids. Share your results with your dentist to make checkups even more effective

mommy minute

Weighted Blankets Looking for that unique gift for Mother’s Day? Why not consider buying a weighted blanket for your mom? Weighted blankets are just what they sound like ― blankets that are heavier than your average bedding, usually between 10 and 25 pounds. Most weighted blankets have pellets sewn into the pockets of the lining to give them their bulk. Weighted blankets are designed to be warm and they provide gentle pressure, mimicking the feeling of being hugged or held. There is an underlying science behind weighted blankets and it’s called Deep Touch Pressure or DTP. One of the reasons why DTP works is because it has been shown to increase serotonin in the body. Serotonin is a chemical in the body that helps regulate mood, specifically having a calming effect which can improve sleep quality. Flowers and candy are nice this time of year but they will not last as long as the gift of better rest for your busy wife or mom. Moms are so busy with running everything they could benefit from a weighted blanket for better sleep routines and downtime.

Visit www.shop.colgate.com.

Augusta Family | May 2018 • 11

news&notes Are we there yet? STARS & STRIKES By LeeAnn Rhoden Stars & Strikes is the newest addition to Augusta for fun and family entertainment. This place is awesome and there is something for everyone. Most importantly, the staff is friendly, accommodating, knowledgeable and they are always smiling. Stars & Strikes has beautiful, upscale bowling lanes and video screens for high-end electronic scoring. There are VIP bowling lanes separated by curtains so your party or team can have a private event. For the little ones, there are bumpers and ramps so they can join the fun and knock down pins too. Food and drinks are available in the bowling area so you never have to leave your game. Not into bowling? Then you’ll love the arcade games. There are classics such as Space Invaders, Pac Man, Wheel of Fortune and skee ball. Adding to the excitement, is race motorcycles, race cars, shoot terminators and rampaging dinosaurs. It’s all electronic so you purchase the card, swipe to pay for games and points are added to your card. At the end of the day, head to the prize shop to select you prizes. If you get thirsty or peckish, there is a snack bar in the arcade. Need a little more physical competition, then try out the bumper cars or play laser tag. This is great fun with no age restrictions. Children and adults can participate – with the latest in laser tag equipment and technology. Soon, Stars & Strikes will have “Escape Rooms” with three adventures to choose from. Spending the day bowling, bumping, tagging and gaming will make you hungry, so definitely try the food. They have more than just pizza and snacks. Stars & Strikes also offers a full-service restaurant where you can sit down and take a break. The menu offers wings, pizza, burgers and also a variety of appetizers, pasta dishes and salads. The food is fresh and made-to-order. The kid’s menu offers everything kids like so it will be easy to please even the pickiest eater. The kitchen services both the restaurant and the bowling area so it can take a long time for food to be prepared. Be sure to have

12 • Augusta Family | May 2018

something for the kids to do while you wait. Stars & Strikes was a great place to spend the day with my seven year old and he loved every minute of it, but for parents of younger children, it’s not a place for babies or toddlers. However, tweens and teens will love all there is to offer and will enjoy the space to roam independently. Adults will have a great time too. There are party packages available for all ages. Packages can be customized by the events coordinator. LOCATION AND HOURS: 3238 Wrightsboro Rd., Augusta. Monday to Thursday from 10 a.m. to midnight, Friday 10 a.m. to 2 a.m., Saturday 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. and Sunday 9 a.m. to midnight. Visit, www.starsandstrikes.com. BUDGET: There are a number of packages to include arcade games, bowling, laser tag and bumper cars which can accommodate any family’s budget. Be prepared to spend money on food –but it’s worth it. WHAT TO DO: Play arcade games and win tokens for prizes. Bowl (bring or wear socks for the shoe rental). Play Laser tag and bumper cars. Escape rooms are coming soon. IF YOU GO: There is so much to do, be ready to spend the whole day there. Bring cash for snacks and extras.

news&notes

SAFE KIDS

PHOTO COURTESY OF PAPA JOE’S BANJO-B-QUE ON FLICKR

FAST FACTS BOATING

More than 70 million Americans enjoy recreational boating each year. Unfortunately, about 2,900 people were injured and 700 died in boating accidents in 2016, according to the latest statistics from the U.S. Coast Guard. That’s why it’s so important to practice boat and water sports safety. The biggest lifesaver is your life vest. Most boating-related drownings can be prevented by wearing personal flotation devices. Recreational boats must carry one appropriately-sized life jacket approved by the Coast Guard for each person on board and the jackets must be kept accessible and in good condition. For more information, visit www.grhealth.org.

Warm Water

Water Safety

Small Class Size

Get Ready For Summer

Safe Kids Greater Augusta, led by Children’s Hospital of Georgia, works to prevent accidental childhood injury, the leading killer of children ages 1 to 14. Safe Kids Greater Augusta is a member of the Safe Kids USA network. To find out more about local Safe Kids programs, call 706-721-7606, or visit grhealth.org/safekids.

The 8th Annual Papa Joe’s BBQ and Music Festival May 25-26. Memorial Day Weekend, The 8th Annual Papa Joe’s BBQ and Music Festival at Lady Antebellum Pavillion, Evans. Line up includes Old Crow Medicine Show, Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit, The Infamous Stringdusters, Revered Peyton, Great Peacock, Front Country, The 502s, The Little Roy & Lizzy Show and Roanoke (US). Enjoy feel-good music, finger-lickin’ barbeque and a fun atmosphere for the entire family. All proceeds benefit the Joseph R. Pond Memorial Foundation. Visit www. banjobque.com.

Augusta Family | May 2018 • 13

Eating Well with Kim Ki m B e a v e rs , M S , R D, LD, CDE

REFRIGERATOR SALAD BAR KEEPING SALAD INGREDIENTS CHOPPED AND AT THE READY CAN ASSURE YOUR FAMILY WILL GET VEGGIE VARIETY OFTEN AND EASE TENSION ON HURRIED SCHEDULED EVENINGS.

Mexican Garden Salad This salad is a great combination

Salad is something I recommend daily but it is easy to fall into a salad rut. This month, I wanted to share some “salad rut reduction techniques” with you as well as simple meal assembly strategies. Get Prepped! • Wash and dry your salad greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula or some combination of your favorite mixed greens) for the week. Place your greens in a large container, zip top bag or salad spinner and store in the refrigerator. I also add a clean paper towel at the bottom to soak up any extra moisture during the week. • Prepare toppings o Sliced peppers, cucumbers o Chopped carrots, celery, cauliflower o Cherry tomatoes, halved o Add-ins: artichoke hearts, corn, edamame, cabbage, fruit of choice o Blanched veggies (broccoli, green beans) o Roasted veggies o Nuts and seeds o Dried or chopped fruit Strategically Place! • Place toppings in a large sectioned container, in individual containers or zip-top bags. I happen to have a large sectioned container I love that is really the inspiration for this article and salad strategy. There is a demo video of this container at www.facebook. com/nutriwellness4health/ . • If using individual containers for toppings

14 • Augusta Family | May 2018

•

keep them together (this is Key). For example, if you place your toppings in zip-top bags place all the zip-top bags in a large bowl. This way you can pull 2 items (salad base and the topping bowl) out of your refrigerator and have all your salad ingredients out and ready to assemble. Place these ingredients in the front of your refrigerator, on the middle shelf – this encourages easy access and also may help keep the more delicate items from freezing.

Enjoy! • Enjoy the fruits (or veggies) of your labors by having an easy salad to throw together. Better yet have the kids make the salads while you cook. • Place the prepared toppings out on a tray while dinner is cooking and watch the kids walk by and grab for veggies as they complain of being hungry. • Throw left over veggies into a skillet at the weeks end for a quick stir-fry, frittata, omelet or soup.

of common foods for a unique twist on the standard side salad.

1 medium tomato, sliced and quartered 1 cup sliced cucumber, not peeled 1 cup chopped sweet onion 1 avocado, peeled and sliced ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro 1 tablespoons lime juice 1 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil ¼ teaspoon ground cumin ¼ teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon ground black pepper 6 cups of mixed greens In a medium bowl, mix vegetables with dressing ingredients (tomatoes through black pepper). Serve on a bed of mixed greens. Yield: 4 servings Nutrient breakdown: Calories 119, Fat 10g

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 be notiﬁed of new recipes join Kim’s facebook fan page at www.facebook.com/eatingwellwithkim. To search for speciﬁc recipes go to www.universityhealth.org/ewwk. You can also watch the segments at www.wrdw.com/ewwk.

(saturated fat 1g); Cholesterol 0mg, Sodium 115mg, Carbohydrate 8g, Fiber 4g, Protein 2g Diabetes Exchanges: 2 Vegetables, 2 fats (mostly monounsaturated fat) Recipe modified from Quick & Healthy Lowfat, Carb Conscious Cooking, by Brenda J. Ponichtera, RD

Summer Fun!

A U G U S TA

Augusta Family | May 2018 â&#x20AC;¢ 15

Dr. Dad

J. Ro n E a ker, M. D.

16 â&#x20AC;¢ Augusta Family | May 2018

TAKE A CHILL PILL Number 3 on our hit parade of tips for highly healthy moms is, “Chillax!” Take it easy. Breathe…slowly. You know what you call a person who doesn’t experience stress?…Dead! We all have it and it isn’t going away. Life is stressful and no matter how many platitudes you hear from Chicken Soup For The Soul (a diamond is just coal under stress, etc) accepting that stuff happens is the first step. The one “Confucius says” that makes sense here is that how you react to stress determines whether you crawl in a cave or keep putting one foot in front of another. Here are 8 life hacks that can help you manage stress. They are not cures, that jerk of a boss is still going to make you want to shoot blood out of your eyes but they can help you not commit homicide. 1. EXERCISE. Yeah, I know, you are sick of hearing about the wonderful world of sweating and spandex but you hear about it ad nauseam because it’s true. Every study on the planet has shown a positive impact of exercise on moods and anxiety. I know myself that if I have to deal with idiot insurance clerks and non functioning electronic medical records all day, a quick run in the evening will soothe my savage soul. 2. DUMP THE JAVA. Caffeine is a stimulant and the last thing most of us need is more stimulation. I realize that some of you would be blubbering masses of couch bound protoplasm without your morning coffee, as would I, but slamming down a pot before lunch is not conducive to chilling out. Think of caffeine as a volume control on the stress stereo...A cup of coffee in the morning will get the dial to a 1 but a Red Bull and a Full Throttle after lunch turns the dial to a 10 and you don’t need that. 3. DOES ANYONE REALLY SMOKE IN THIS DAY AND TIME? I mean, just give me a daily dose of strychnine while you are at it. Even though overall smoking rates are down, there are still a lot of fools that think slow suicide is cool. Guess what, instead of calming you down (as in a smoke break) the nicotine and myriads of other poisons actually increase anxiety, so give up the smokes and spend the extra money on something positive like the lottery. 4. NOW I’M REALLY GOING TO MAKE YOU MAD. Not only am I suggesting getting rid of the caffeine and cigarettes but now I’m adding booze

to the trifecta. I just don’t want you to ever have fun again. I have to say that realistically all these things need to follow the “only in moderation” rule (except smoking, that’s still idiotic anytime). An occasional glass of red wine has been shown to have some health benefits but that doesn’t mean a bottle a night is even better. Self medicating with alcohol is a classic reaction to stress but it inevitably ends up creating vastly more problems than it masks. 5. GET PLENTY OF SLEEP. Sleep deprivation creates anxiety, which creates sleep problems, which adds to anxiety…you can see where this is going. A good seven to eight hours a night can do wonders for stress management and moodiness. Why do you think we say, “I will sleep on it?” Well, for me it’s mainly to have an excuse to not give an answer but for normal people it goes back to knowing good sleep helps your brain function better. 6. QUIET DOWN. This can take the form of prayer, meditation or just throwing a ball against the wall and catching it. Simply quieting the mind and being conscious of your breathing for as little as five minutes a day can have a beneficial impact on stress. You don’t have to sit in the lotus position and contemplate your navel (it’s more fun to contemplate someone else’s navel) but any technique to be mindful of the moment is helpful. 7. LOCK ALL YOUR ELECTRONIC DEVICES IN YOUR GUN CABINET AT NIGHT. Exposure to screens, be it your phone, iPad or 500 inch plasma megatron television, has been shown to be stress magnifying. Some of it has to do with their interference with sleep but it may also be the lousy content of most TV shows and Facebook feeds. How many times do you really need to see pictures of your ex-husband’s trip to Burma “to find himself?” (Eat, Pray, Burp). 8. GET HELP. Finally, if you find yourself doing all these things and still battling the demons, get help. The biggest mistake folks make is thinking stuff will just get better on its own. Chances are it won’t and a caring, knowledgeable counselor, pastor, doctor, friend or Nepalese guru can help guide you along the path to health. Dr. Eaker is an Augusta Ob/GYN and author. He and his wife, Susan, have two daughters in college.

Augusta Family | May 2018 • 17

Smart Mom’s Guide C a m m i e Jo n e s

ENTERTAINING KIDS ON ROAD TRIPS Road Trip! It sounds so fun and exciting. However, when it comes to riding in a car for more than an hour or two with small children, the thought of it can increase your blood pressure by a zillion! If you want to survive a long trip with your kids, then read on for some great ideas to keep those little sweethearts occupied. 1. THE OBVIOUS - ELECTRONICS!

2. SNACKS (BUT THE RIGHT ONES, OF COURSE)

Even if you are one who likes to limit and control how much

Getting bored in the car also means the complaining will

time your child watches television or plays on his or her

start. Make sure to have plenty of healthy snacks in the

tablet or Ipad, this is not the time to strictly enforce those

car to dole out as needed. Apples, individually packaged

rules. A trip with young children is all about peace and sur-

snacks, trail mix and small waters will help. Try to limit

vival. So, whip out those DVDs, load a few good movies onto

the sugary snacks and sodas so that your child’s blood

their mobile device and do whatever it takes to keep the

sugar level will be level. Don’t forget a trash bag, napkins

“Are we there yet?” statements to a minimum. Don’t forget

and wet wipes to keep everyone and everything as neat as

the headphones!

possible.

18 • Augusta Family | May 2018

Smart Mom’s Guide

Remember your children are only young once so this too shall pass. 3. Games, Games, Games

ing early in the morning, late at night or if your

There are many travel games to play to help pass

child is just not a good traveler. Of course, it’s al-

the time. Travel bingo, Uno, Old Maid and really

ways a good idea to check with you pediatrician’s

any card game will make the ride a little more

office first. Be sure to set up a comfortable spot

enjoyable. If you don’t want to add any more

for your child with her favorite pillow, blanket or

stuff to an overpacked car, a good old-fashioned

sleeping bag to mimic a peaceful place to rest.

“I Spy” or “The License Plate Game” will work

Trying to keep noise to a minimum will also help

too. Whoever comes up with the most states

set the tone for quiet time.

after an hour will get a small prize, which brings me to #4.

7. short stretch Breaks No matter the type of entertainment you are

4. surprises

planning, taking short breaks to stretch your legs

As a child, we would travel 14 hours to visit our

is very important. Stop at a rest area to use the

grandparents, all the way to Wisconsin. This was

facilities and let the kids run around a bit. Pack a

way before DVD players, tablets or cell phones!

picnic lunch or snack that you can enjoy outside

My mom would give us a “prize” every hour or

of the vehicle. A little fresh air will help everyone

so. It could be a new set of crayons and coloring

regroup and get refreshed before climbing back

book, silly putty, a small snack bag of M & M’s

into the car to hit the road again.

or anything that interests your children. Prizes help encourage good behavior and your kids will

8. learNiNG tools

look forward to counting down the minutes or

This may sound boring, but why not print out

hours till the next prize.

a map of your trip from the internet and as you pass each city or major river, have your child mark

5. Name that tuNe

it off the map? Many moons ago, on a long road

Have each child choose a radio or XM station

trip to Baton Rouge, my child’s first grade teacher

to listen to or a personal playlist that the entire

did just that. As we passed from state to state, we

car can enjoy. Pick who gets to share their pick

had a sheet with fun facts and information about

first and allot a time to listen to it together. This

that state and what rivers and capitols each were

will add some interest to the ride and allows

known for. It definitely helped pass the time and

everyone the chance to enjoy the music they like

the kids learned a little bit too!

best. You can set some ground rules ahead of time about length of time on each child’s music

Remember your children are only young once so

choice or more important things like clean, fam-

this too shall pass. Humor is something that will

ily friendly music only.

keep everyone in check and your blood pressure at a normal rate. Just sit back and enjoy the ride.

6. sleep! A little Dramamine is okay to give your child if naps are a must, especially if you are travel-

Cammie Jones is an Augusta freelance writer and mother of three.

Augusta Family | May 2018 • 19

Raising Readers Me red i th F l o r y

Readers and Nature Preparing for our move across the country last fall, we made the decision to treat the drive more like a family vacation than a marathon driving session. We spent a day at Vicksburg National Park, a beautiful, sprawling piece of land near the Mississippi River that memorializes a major turning point in the Civil War with monuments, museums and battlefield sites. At times, it was solemn and heartbreaking but it was also a day filled with memory making and down time to rest from the trip. National parks make a great destination for longer vacations and right here in the CSRA you are surrounded with many state parks and historical sites that you can visit in an afternoon. As my children get older, I hope to take advantage of the parks that are within range for day trips of each place we live. There’s such a wide range of benefits that our family receives from spending time in nature. The chance to be among trees, beautiful vistas and flora and fauna can be awe inspiring for a child. Historical markers, memorials, ruins and replicas can be paired with reading or documentaries on our history for a chance to bring the page to life. Regardless of how a family chooses to spend time exploring, these parks can give us a chance to reconnect and step away from our indoor, technology-driven lives. Recently, I spoke with staff at Elijah Clark State Park and Mistletoe State Park, about how local families can continue to be “raising readers” over summer break while using state parks as a resource. Both Brenda Bettross, the assistant manager at Elijah Clark State Park and Justin Bettross, the assistant manager at Mistletoe State Park, shared how the Junior Ranger program is an excellent opportunity for children ages six to 12 to learn about wildlife, outdoor activities and other things park rangers do. Brenda Bettross shared that Elijah Clark will have a Junior Ranger camp in June, and Justin Bettross points out that the, “Junior Rangers Book “ is standard for every park, but in the coming months they will be specific to each park so people can get different books at different Georgia state parks.” The

20 • Augusta Family | May 2018

Junior Ranger books have information and activities

While a park pass allows you to spontaneously visit

children can work through to earn badges as they

and support our parks throughout the year, if you

explore the Georgia parks system, engaging them in

are choosing to plan ahead for a more involved trip,

science, history and reading.

know that many of the parks have camping sites available for a longer stay. Many also have special

If you are planning a trip to a state park, you can

events throughout the year, such as holiday cel-

extend the educational component by choosing books

ebrations, tours, concerts, crafting and other types

to read ahead of time. For small children, picture

of lessons. If you have a teen interested in envi-

books about forest life or animals common in Georgia

ronmental issues, they may be able to find ways to

that can be read ahead of time to explain what you

become involved in green efforts by supporting the

might see. This allows the child to make connections

parks system. Brenda Bettross pointed out that

between a book they have read and a new experience.

every quarter Elijah Clark State Park “...offers a clean

For independent readers, children’s nature magazines

up the park volunteer day, where the community can

or reference books can allow exploration at their own

get involved in helping our picnic and beach area

pace and will pair well with the Junior Rangers activi-

look the best it can be.”

ties. For teens, novels or nonfiction stories about wilderness survival skills or wilderness conservation

The benefits of visiting a state park to your child’s

may help them understand the importance of preserv-

education and mental health are innumerable. As

ing our natural resources. Brenda Bettross points out

Brenda Bettross expresses, “State parks offer a day of

that, “There are many books written on Elijah Clark the

family bonding and fun at minimal cost. Families can

Revolutionary war hero,” so consider teen appropriate

experience the outdoors in many ways such as boat-

books on historical figures or events for any historical

ing, hiking, backpacking, bike riding, walking, relaxing

markers you will see. Teens or parents may be inspired

near the water, playgrounds, archery and more.” Justin

by books that focus on the benefits of spending time

Bettross shares that in addition to the camping and

in nature. Justin Bettross suggests, Last Child in the

common recreation areas, “For people that want to get

Woods by Richard Louv, which “details why children

further off of the beaten path, Mistletoe has 12 miles of

don’t go outside a much as they once did” as a moving

hiking trails and offers geo-caching and orienteering.”

book that can connect to park visits.

State parks and heritage sites protect our history, the beauty of our country and our historical record. There

When planning a visit to a state park in Georgia or

is always an activity or adventure waiting for every

even in South Carolina, you can purchase a one day

member of your family at a state park and as you look

park pass or an annual park pass to be used at state

for ways to combat the summer slump. state parks of-

parks throughout the same state. There are some

fer an affordable way to raise your readers to appreci-

discounted programs, such as those for senior citi-

ate the beauty of the CSRA and beyond.

zens or veterans. For families on a tight budget, there are limited numbers of park passes available for loan

More information on any of the programs listed here

through the public library system. For family mem-

and others in our area can be found at www. gastate-

bers with limited mobility, the Georgia State Parks

parks.org or www.southcarolinaparks.org. Many of

website states that, “Georgia’s State Parks & Historic

the individual parks also have social media pages or

Sites are committed to making facilities and programs

newsletters you can sign up for to engage and share

accessible to everyone. All lodges have accessible

information with your family as well.

rooms, meeting facilities and restaurants. Most parks offer accessible cottages, campsites, fishing piers, nature trails and picnic areas.” Families are encouraged to call to find out what may be available for your specific needs at the park you plan to visit.

Meredith Flory is an Augusta-area freelance writer, military spouse and mother of two. She has a masters degree in children’s literature from Kansas State University and has taught high school and college English.

Augusta Family | May 2018 • 21

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20 Reasons to Choose ChildRen’s hospital of GeoRGia 1. 2. 3. 4. Children come in all shapes and sizes, and they require very specialized care. From the tiniest blood pressure cuff to the largest hospital gown, everything at the 154-bed Children’s Hospital of Georgia is designed exclusively for children. The hospital was affectionately known for many years as the “CMC,” which was short for MCG Children’s Medical Center, its original name when it opened in 1998. The hospital was funded in part through a $40 million allocation from the Georgia General Assembly. Creating a hospital that was “just what the doctor ordered” had been done repeatedly. But building a hospital that incorporates the wishes of patients and families is what Patient- and Family-Centered Care is all about. PFCC was pioneered in Augusta, and the children’s hospital was one of the first big projects to include patients and families. Children and their parents were at the table during the planning process. Kids chose the dinosaur and technology themes and selected paint colors for the walls. They even performed taste-testing on the

food that would be served. After talking with parents, the Children’s Hospital designed very large rooms where mom and dad can bunk in on the couch and trundle bed. In addition, parents suggested that the hospital do away with visiting hours. That’s why you can visit or stay with a patient 24/7 at Children’s Hospital of Georgia. There are no visiting hours. Over the past two decades, thousands of children and families have trusted the Children’s Hospital during some of the most challenging times of their lives. Children are surviving traumatic injuries, chronic conditions, rare diseases, cancer, heart defects and a myriad of other life-threatening circumstances, thanks to the expert care and cutting-edge research found only at Children’s Hospital of Georgia. Much has changed in 20 years, but one thing remains – a passion and commitment to meeting the unique health care needs of children. Happy 20th Birthday! Together, we have much to celebrate!

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Ranked nation’s best in pediatric quality and safety repeatedly. Area’s only Level IV - highest level – NICU Area’s only Level 1 - highest level – PICU Area’s only separate 16-bed children’s ER with pediatric trauma capabilities Developed Georgia’s first ECMO program, earning six international excellence awards Full range of pediatric surgery, cardiology, oncology, neurology, family and emergency medicine programs and services provided by specialists recognized by prestigious organizations such as Best Doctors and America’s Top Doctors Region’s only hybrid pediatric heart catheterization suite and only pediatric heart surgeons Provides couplet care – mom and baby cared for under one roof inside the Children’s Hospital Complete and unique pediatric imaging suite with ambient lighting, sound and a simulated toy scanner to help explain MRI and other radiology procedures to children Telemedicine program providing expertise in rural communities via virtual appointments Ground and air transportation for patients in 159 Georgia counties and neighboring states Largest team of local child life specialists to explain care and put patients and families at ease Visits from Nugget, a full-time therapy dog, who works exclusively for Children’s Hospital Entertainment by Roary, a dedicated Chief Fun Officer and Children’s Hospital mascot Interpreter services for families in virtually every language Medical research and training programs for pediatric specialists Dedicated children’s chapel and full-time chaplains Huge indoor playground for patients and siblings, as well as two smaller inpatient playrooms Directly connected to AU Medical Center, Georgia’s only public academic health center Only local hospital with onsite Ronald McDonald House: home-away-from-home for families of hospitalized children

s r a e Y 0 2

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Just a few months before the Children’s Hospital of Georgia (formerly MCG Children’s Medical Center) in Augusta was dedicated, Amy Ashley delivered a 9-pound baby boy at 41 weeks in Greenwood, South Carolina. But there was a problem. “Austin was having trouble breathing, and they were trying to figure out what was wrong. I was so scared,” said Ashley, who was just 17 at the time. After taking x-rays, doctors discovered that only one of the baby’s lungs had developed. Further complicating things, his intestines and other organs had been pushed up into his chest cavity while he was in the womb. Baby Austin was diagnosed with a diaphragmatic hernia, a hole in the muscle that separates the chest from the abdomen. Only about 1 in 5,000 babies are born with this condition. “There was nothing more they could do for him in Greenwood,” said Ashley, “so he was helicoptered to the Children’s Hospital, because they have the highest level NICU for babies.” After landing in Augusta, baby Austin was rushed inside and quickly placed on ECMO, an artificial heart and lung bypass system. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation is the full name of this lifesaving technology, but ECMO is easier to say and less overwhelming to hear when your baby is clinging to life. “They told me Austin had only about a 20 percent chance to live,” Ashley said. “It was very scary and stressful. I was away from my family. They were in Greenwood, and I was in Augusta.” Ashley remembers Deborah Wall, a neonatal nurse and ECMO specialist at

24 • Augusta Family | May 2018

Children’s Hospital of Georgia, taking the time to explain to her what was happening and why her baby was hooked up to this intimidating bundle of tubes, pumps and electronic devices. “The thing was, this baby had a bad prognosis,” recalled Dr. Robyn Hatley. Unfortunately, this was a condition he has seen far too often over 30 years as a pediatric surgeon with the Medical College of Georgia. “Most babies born with a diaphragmatic hernia have just a 50 to 60 percent chance of survival,” Dr. Hatley said. But Austin’s chances were not even half that good. On day 14 of his ECMO run, the maximum number of days a child was placed on ECMO at the time, the Children’s Hospital of Georgia physician told Ashley it was time to take the infant to the operating room to repair the hernia and work on reorganizing his jumbled organs. “As bad as things were, ultimately, he did very well,” said Dr. Hatley. “We were able to pull the organs down and close the hole in his diaphragm.” Ashley said Austin had a second surgery in Augusta to remove a length of his intestines. “They kept him for two months after that; so by the time we were discharged (in mid-April), I was just ready to get home,” she said. Remarkably, Austin’s second lung soon fully developed, and the only signs of his initial distress were the occasional breathing treatment and bouts with high blood pressure. Ashley’s baby is no longer a baby. Austin recently turned 20 and has dreams of becoming a chef.

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graduation. Then they quickly left for Au“He loves to cook,” said Ashley, “and he gusta to be with her youngest son. hopes to go to culinary school.” Trice was on ECMO for 28 days, which Coincidentally, the Children’s Hospital was twice as long as Austin. Dr. Zahid of Georgia, whose expert staff saved AusAmin, pediatric cardiology section chief at tin’s life, also celebrates its 20th birthday Children’s Hospital of Georgia, discovered this year. an aneurysm. Perhaps the biggest irony for Ashley “He told us Trice was the first baby to came in June 2016 when her third son Trice have one where he had it in his aorta. Dr. (Freddie Hagood III) was delivered by CAmin had to have a stent specially made for section at 37 weeks. A whopping 11 pounds him,” Ashley said. In addition, he told her and 7 ounces, the nurse told Ashley that that he had never done this particular proTrice was the biggest baby she had ever seen. cedure and that he had never heard of anyThe excitement was short-lived. one else doing it either. “He wasn’t crying or making any Amazingly, Trice did well, too. He’ll be sound, and I just knew something was 2 in June. wrong,” Ashley said. “I had the same feel“We just went in March ing before delivery, but to see his cardiologist and after going through about Coincidentally, we don’t have to go back for six hours of tests and ulthe Children’s three years. He has some trasounds, they told me Hospital of fine motor skill issues, beeverything looked fine.” Georgia, whose cause he was on ECMO for But the newborn was expert staff so long, but he is improvnot fine, explained Ashley. ing every day with therapy,” Doctors suspected hypersaved Austin’s Ashley said. trophic cardiomyopathy, a life, also “Trice loves just about very dangerous condition in celebrates its anything with wheels … which the heart muscles are 20th birthday trucks, cars, even stroller abnormally thick, upsetting this year. wheels. She said that Sesame blood flow to the heart and Street is his thing, especially if throughout the body. she wants to get him out of a bad mood. “While I was pregnant, I was his lifeWith so many years between 20-yearline,” said Ashley. “My body had been doing old Austin, middle son Dylan, 16, and the all the work for him. So when they cut the baby, Ashley said she wondered how the cord, everything shut down.” boys would adapt to such an age gap after Like his big brother Austin, Trice was Trice was born. flown to the neonatal intensive care unit “Austin spends more time here now than at Children’s Hospital of Georgia, however when he lived at home,” she laughed. In fact, he did not improve. As neonatal experts she said the boys are always taking Trice to the were isolating the problem and exploring park, to get ice cream or some other fun activity. options, they asked Ashley if she had ever “They really are very close,” she said. heard of ECMO. These are precious moments the boys “I was like, ‘you’ve got to be kidding would not have, conceded Ashley, had it not me!’” she said. On the same day Trice arbeen for the exceptional team at Augusta’s rived by helicopter in Augusta, Austin, her only children’s hospital. firstborn, was graduating high school in “I love them. They are absolutely wonSouth Carolina. derful,” Ashley said. “If I ever hear of anyDespite having just undergone major body who needs to go there for ECMO surgery to bring her baby into the world, or any other situation, I’d give them my Ashley and her family made arrangements 100-percent recommendation.” to “wheelchair” her in so she wouldn’t miss

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Augusta Family | May 2018 • 25

s t o Ro DEEPER

EAST H T U O S ITAL IN P S O H S ’ DREN FIRST CHIL

FUN FACTS ABOUT 1998 •

Children’s Hospital of Georgia opens.

•

Google.com launches.

•

Monster.com is founded.

•

Smartwater is introduced.

•

MP3s are created for

Augusta’s only children’s hospital opened under the name MCG Children’s Medical Center in May 1998. But its roots run much deeper. Its forerunner, The Wilhenford Hospital for Children, was the first children’s hospital in Augusta, in the state of Georgia and in the South. It was planned and operated by the Children’s Hospital Association, a group of Augusta women dedicated to the cause of caring for kids. Much like the second-generation Children’s

Hospital of Georgia, The Wilhenford’s compassionate care extended beyond the hospital walls. It operated a training school for pediatric nurses from 1911-1934 and served as the children’s ward and training facility for pediatricians at the Medical College of Georgia for decades. Through an influenza pandemic, depression, wars, and local flooding, The Wilhenford consistently met the needs of thousands of children in Augusta until it closed in 1941.

first time. •

New York Yankees win the World Series.

•

Denver Broncos win Super Bowl XXXII.

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ESPN The Magazine begins publishing.

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Titanic wins Oscar for Best Picture.

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Saving Private Ryan is the biggest box office hit.

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E.R. is the top-rated TV show.

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The final episode of Seinfeld airs.

Editor’s note: Pulled from popculturemadness.com. and pop-culture.us.

26 • Augusta Family | May 2018

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GPS

GO. PLAY. SEE.

EXPLORE THE CSRA ARTS, CULTURE AND HISTORY RECREATION & FAMILY FUN PARKS & PLAYGROUNDS

By Naimah Shaw

A U G U S TA

Go to www.augustafamily.com for an exclusive online guide to communities throughout the CSRA.

Explore the CSRA by Naimah Shaw

Discover the entire universe at the DUPONT PLANETARIUm AND ObSERvATORy at the University of South Carolina at Aiken. Programs for ages four and older are held on Saturdays and focuses on astronomy and exploring the skies. Weather permitting, visitors can view the skies through the Bechtel Telescope in the observatory. Visit, www. rpsec.usca.edu.

28 • Augusta Family | May 2018

photo by Chris thelen

DOWNTOWN AUGUSTA has transformed into a vibrant spot filled with a plethora of shops, ideas, styles and tastes. From the acclaimed Frog Hollow Tavern, Boll Weevil’s renowned desserts to nightly shows at Sky City, there’s plenty to feed the soul in downtown Augusta. The historic Miller Theater is now opened and The Imperial is still going strong. You can stroll through Artists Row and then relax on the Riverwalk and on’t forget Saturday mornings at the Augusta Market and the Candlelight Jazz Concert Series, Sundays at Augusta Commons. Be sure to bring the kids to join in the fun. www.visitaugusta.com.

photo by MiChael holahan

CLARK’S HILL LAKE (Officially, J. Strom Thurmond Dam and Lake) is one of the most popular lakes in the Southeast and one of the most visited U.S. Army Corps of Engineers lakes in the country. It is the largest man-made lake on this side of the Mississippi River and is home to many parks, campgrounds and marinas. Clark’s Hill Lake is known for championship fishing and excellent boating. Visit, www.sas.usace.army.mil.

5 Take a step back in time while visiting one of the country’s largest urban forests, HITCHCOCK WOODS in Aiken. Walk, run or ride a horse through 70 miles of sandy pathways in this 2,100-acre habitat that has been preserved to maintain its natural character and historical legacy. While there, make your way to South Boundary, a street USA Today named one of the 10 Prettiest Streets for a Stroll. It is known as the “Avenue of Oaks” because of the canopy created by the live oaks planted along both sides. Visit, www.hitchcockwoods.org.

photo by sara Caldwell

photo by annette M. drowlette

SRP Park is here! Enjoy dynamic sports on the beautiful Savannah River! Baseball enthusiasts can cheer on the AUGUSTA GREENJACKETS, a minor league baseball team and a Class-A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. SRP Park can hold up to 5,000 guests for GreenJackets games and anywhere from 9,000-10,000 for concerts and events. Visit, www.milb.com.

Tucked away behind a serpentine brick wall, under a canopy of ancient trees along Whiskey Road and Dupree Place is one of the jewels of Aiken: Hopelands Gardens. This 14-acre garden was once an estate in the Winter Colony area of Aiken and is now open to the public. With its towering 100 year old oaks, meandering pathways, serene ponds and fountains, Hopelands Garden is perfect for relaxing, enjoying nature and playing. www.visitaikensc.com.

savannaH rapids park is located at the headgates of the Savannah River in Columbia County. Walk, jog or bike along the Augusta Canal towpath. Kayak or canoe along the canal or take a leisurely Petersburg Boat Tour to the Augusta Canal Discovery Center in downtown Augusta. Go to the visitor’s center that is housed in the renovated Lockkeepers Cottage, dance in the restored pavilion and learn about the lock and dam system built in the 19th century. Bikes and boats are available for rent www.columbiacountyga.gov.

photo by MIChAEL hoLAhAN

photo by EMILy roSE bENNEtt

photo by FLyboy AErIAL photogrAphy

reed creek nature park in Martinez is a local hidden jewel. It serves as both a recreational park and educational facility. Walk across the raised boardwalk to go through an active wetland environment or attend a variety of classes ideal for all children to see and learn about frogs, snakes and other wetlands wildlife. It’s also the perfect place for a peaceful stroll. www.columbiacountyga.gov.

pHinizy swaMp & nature park was founded in 1996 when there was a critical need for independent water quality research to find solutions to balancing sustainable watersheds and economic interests. Over the years, a hands-on educational program has developed where the community can enjoy nature and learn more about wetlands and water systems. There are trails for walking, bike riding and even for fishing from the banks of the Mayor’s Fishin’ Hole. Visit www.phinizycenter.org.

7 Black History has long since been an integral part of Augusta’s past and future. Among the famous African-Americans born or raised in Augusta are: The Godfather of Soul, James Brown, Jessye Norman, Laurence Fishburne and many others. Much of this rich history is preserved at the lucy craft laney MuseuM of Black History. Laney started the first school for black children in Augusta in 1883. The museum is in her former home and promotes her legacy through arts and history. On Fridays, the museum sponsors a trolley tour visiting more than 25 significant historic sites related to Augusta’s black history. www.lucycraftlaneymuseum.com.

photo by JACkIE rICCIArdI

photo by JoN-MIChAEL SULLIVAN

photo by SIr MILdrEd pIErCE

11 savannaH lakes Marina- Located in McCormick SC, this is an easy drive from Augusta and suburban areas. You will arrive at a pristine lake with a fully serviced marina that provides boat and tube rentals. This is the perfect place to soak in the warmth of the sun and the rippled beauty of the water surrounding the city.www. slmarina.com.

Augusta Family | May 2018 • 29

photo by John harpring

Arts, Culture and History Augusta Museum of History

Museums in the CSRA and nearby Columbia, SC., and Atlanta offer an exploration into art, history and so much more. If it’s arts education you’re interested in—from dance lessons to string instruments—the CSRA has plenty to offer. Here’s our listing of places your family can go for arts education, performance, museums and historic exploration. ARTS EDUCATION Aiken Center for the Arts 112 Laurens St., Aiken. 803-641-9094. www.aikencenterforthearts.org Offers programs for children and adults, juried shows and competitions, lectures and instruction, concert events, music, dance, film, and other performing arts. Gallery Store with local art and exhibits. Augusta Ballet School 2941 Walton Way. 706-733-5511. www.augustaballetschool.com Offers all levels of classical ballet study embracing the development of the dancer. Augusta School of Music 4159 Wheeler Road. 706-210-1957 www.chipmcdonald.com Guitar lessons. Augusta University Music Conservatory Program 706-721-3083. www.augusta.edu/ce/conservatory Private lessons in piano, organ, voice, strings, woodwinds and brass. Music courses also offered. Augusta West Dance Studio 262 Fury’s Ferry Road. 706-860-0999. www.augustawestdance.com Ballet, tap, jazz, hip hop, contemporary, musical theater and various other styles of dance. Augusta Youth School of Dance 123 Davis Road, Martinez. 706-829-0681. www.augustayouthschoolofdance.com Ballet, hip hop, jazz and tap classes for ages 3 to adult. Burns Dance Studio 831 Neilson Road, Aiken. 803-648-7659. www.burnsdancestudio.com

30 • Augusta Family | May 2018

Tap, jazz, ballet, hip hop, pointe, acro/tumbling, contemporary, karate, Zumba Carolina Dance Studio 55 Capital Drive, Aiken. 803-641-0222. www.carolinadancestudio.com Creative movement, hip hop, combination, tap, ballet/pointe, jazz and lyrical dance styles taught. Ages 2 ½ and up. Carolina Academy of Music 913 Dougherty Road, Aiken. 803-648-5150. www.carolinaacademyofmusic.com Group and individual music lessons in a variety of instruments, including string instruments, for all ages. Kindermusik program for newborns to 5 years. Center Stage Dance Academy 3956 Belair Road. 706-945-0625. www.centerstagega.com Classes in creative movement, tap, ballet, jazz, clogging, hip hop, lyrical and tumbling for ages 2-adult. Columbia County Ballet 639 Fury’s Ferry Road Martinez. 706-869-1852. www.columbiacountyballet.com Classic ballet training. Creative Impressions 706-664-9022 www.creative-impressions.org A group of young singers perform across the area. Crosby-Miller School of Dance 424 Hayne Ave., Aiken. 142 Greenville St. SW, Aiken. 803-648-5771. www.crosbymillerdance.com Offers classes in ballet, jazz and tap. Cutno Dance 3497 Wheeler Road. 706-364-3442. www.cutnodance.com Multicultural dance studio with classes in

African Diaspora, ballet, hip hop, Kinderdance/creative movement, modern, tap and classes for moms and young children. Dream Dance Academy 145 Marlboro St., Aiken. 803-649-4420. www.dreamlanceacad.com Movement, ballet, tap, pointe, jazz, hip hop, acro/tumbling, lyrical, modern and contemporary dance instruction. Kane & Co. Dance Productions 4321 Evans to Locks Road, Evans. 701 Devika Drive, Grovetown. 706-447-9007. www.kanecodance.com Ballet, tap, jazz, lyrical and hip hop classes. Kindermusik 736 Greene St. (St. John UMC). kindermusik.com Music and movement program for newborns to 7 years. Jessye Norman School of the Arts 739 Greene St. 706-877-0411. www.jessyenormanschool.org Enrichment programs in drama, film and technical theater, visual arts, creative writing, music, modern dance, digital photography and technology, and sewing and costuming. Portman’s Music 4020 Washington Road, Martinez. 706-738-1651. www.Portmansmusic.com Group and private music lessons in many instruments for children, teens and adults. Pulse Dance Center 476 Flowing Wells Road, Martinez. 706-210-2552. www.pulsedancecenter.net Jazz, acro jazz, tap, hip hop, ballet and cheer dance. Rock Bottom Music 2825 Washington Road, Augusta. 706-733-5655.

202 Richland Ave., Aiken. 803-649-1919. www.rockbottommusic.com Offers lessons in guitar, bass guitar, upright double-bass, banjo, mandolin, violin, drums and percussion. Stephanie’s Dancers 717 Industrial Park Drive, Evans. 706-650-0366. www.stephaniesdancers.com Ballet, jazz and tap classes starting at 2 ½ years. Suzuki-Stars 406 Preserve Trail, Martinez. 3662 Wheeler Road, Augusta. 706-399-5313. www.suzukistars.musicteachershelper.com Voice and string lessons for children, teens and adults. Music lessons for all ages. The Musical Express 1106 Fury’s Lane, Martinez. 706-840-9682. www.themusicalexpress.com Piano lessons for ages 4 to adult. The Ballroom Dance Center 525 Grand Slam Dr, Evans. 706-854-8888 www.augustaballroomdance.com Group and private dance lessons including waltz, rumba, two-stop, hustle, swing, shag. Peformances and weekly dances.

PERFORMANCE Augusta Choral Society 706-826-4713. www.augustachoralsociety.org Volunteer community chorus of 75 performing great choral works with professional instrumental accompaniment. Augusta Chorale 706-830-0991. www.augustachorale.org Visit the website for a schedule of upcoming concerts. Augusta Community Band www.facebook.com/AugustaConcertBand

A community band made up of student, amateur and professional musicians who play several concerts a year through out the Augusta area.

803-642-2015. www.aikenmuseum.us Dedicated to preserving Aiken County’s rich history.

Augusta Players/Augusta Junior Players 1301 Greene St. 706-826-4707. www.augustaplayers.org Theater group for ages 6-19.

Aiken Railroad Depot 406 Park Ave., Aiken. 803-293-7846. aikenrailroaddepot.org A rebuilt replica of the original depot in downtown Aiken featuring interactive displays evoking the history of the railroad

Greater Augusta Youth Theatre 600 Broad St., #2. 706-860-9729. www.grayt.org This theater is operated entirely by local youth actors, directors, designers, artist and musicians and produces two major community productions each year. Garden City Chorus 803-215-0641. www.gardencitychorus.org An all-male chorus that performs throughout the Augusta-Aiken area. Harry Jacobs Chamber Music Society 706-790-9274 or 706-951-6877. www.hjcms.org World-class musicians are invited to participate in the Society’s six concerts each year. Imperial Theatre 749 Broad St. 706-722-8341. www.imperialtheatre.com One of the area’s premier venues for a variety of performances and films. Storyland Theatre 706-736-3455. www.storylandtheatre.org Quality theatrical productions, performed by adults, for children and families. Performances at the Grover C. Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre at Augusta University. Symphony Orchestra Augusta 706-826-4705. www.soaugusta.org Regional symphony performs a variety of concerts from classical to pops throughout the year. The Augusta Players 1301 Greene St. 706-826-4707. www.augustaplayers.org Local theater company that produces big Broadway-style musicals at Augusta’s Imperial Theatre. Westobou 1129 Broad St. 706-755-2878. www.westoboufestival.com A five-day festival in downtown Augusta each fall that features music, dance, film, spoken word and visual arts.

MUSEUMS Aiken County Historical Museum 433 Newberry St., Aiken.

Aiken Thoroughbred Racing Hall of Fame and Museum 135 Dupree Pl, Aiken. 803-642-7631. www.aikenracinghalloffame.com/ Celebrates the great tradition of racing and Aiken’s vital role in it. Augusta Museum of History 560 Reynolds St. 706-722-8454. www.augustamuseum.org/ Dedicated to preserving the history of Augusta. Augusta Canal Interpretive Center 1450 Greene St. 706-823-0440. www.augustacanal.com Learn about the people who built the canal and explore its progress, problems and promise. Guided canal boat tours Boyhood Home of President Woodrow Wilson 419 7th St. 706-722-9828. www.wilsonboyhoodhome.org A house museum depicting the life of President Wilson. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art 506 Telfair St. 706-722-5495. www.ghia.org An art institute and exhibition galleries housed in a beautiful renovated former home in downtown Augusta. Grovetown Museum 106 West Robinson Ave., Grovetown. 706-863-1867. Explore Grovetown’s history and see the collection of military equipment. Imagination Station, A Neighborhood Children’s Museum 965 Hickman Road, at Hickman Park. 706-726-3506 or 706-834-5543. www.imagineaugusta.org A community-run children’s museum featuring interactive educational exhibits as well as programming for both children and parents. Laurel & Hardy Museum 250 N. Louisville St., Harlem. 706-556-0401. www.laurelandhardymuseum.com Celebrate the legacy of Oliver Hardy, who was born in Harlem 1892. He and his com-

edy partner Stan Laurel entertained audiences for more than 25 years, starting in the era of silent fees. The museum is filled with memorabilia and visitors can even watch old films by the duo. Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History 1116 Phillips St. 706-724-2866. www.lucycraftlaneymuseum.com Dedicated to African American history and art in Augusta. McDuffie Museum 121 Main St., Thomson, Ga. 706-595-9923. www.mcduffiemuseum.com Dedicated to preserving the history of McDuffie County. Morris Museum of Art 1 10th St. 706-724-7501. www.themorris.org The first museum dedicated to the art and artists of the American South. The collection includes holdings of nearly 5,000 paintings, works on paper, photographs and sculptures dating from the late-eighteenth century to the present. Signal Corps Museum Fort Gordon. 706-791-2818. www.signal.army.mil/OLD/ocos/museum/ Exhibits trace the development of the Signal Corps from its beginning in 1860. Columbia Museum of Art 1515 Main St., Columbia, S.C. 803-799-2810. www.columbiamuseum.org Eclectic and dynamic exhibits and collection, lectures, art classes and tours. Georgia Museum of Art 90 Carlton St., Athens, Ga. 706-542-4662. www.georgiamuseum.org The official state museum of art. Greenville County Museum of Art 420 College St., Greenville, S.C. 864-271-7570. www.gcma.org Home to the world’s largest public collection of watercolors by Andrew Wyeth. High Museum of Art 1280 Peachtree St., Atlanta. 404-733-4400. www.high.org Renowned collection of classic and contemporary art and award-winning architecture. South Carolina State Museum 301 Gervais St., Columbia, S.C. 803-898-4921. www.scmuseum.org Features four floors of permanent and changing exhibits, a digital dome planetarium, 4D interactive theater and an observatory.

Artists Row Broad Street. www.artistsrowaugusta.com Artists Row offers everything from original works by internationally renowned artists, to local fine art, pottery, hand crafted glass work, sculpture, unique regional crafts, photography, jewelry and specialty gifts. Augusta Market on the River Saturdays through Nov. 26, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. 8th Street Plaza at Riverwalk www.theaugustamarket.com Farmer’s Market and vendors set up tables to sell items. Music, childrens activities.

HISTORY Confederate Powderworks Chimney 1717 Goodrich St. www.nps.gov/nr/travel/augusta/sibleymill. html The chimney used to produce gunpowder for the Confederacy is accessible to the public anytime. Magnolia Cemetery Between 2nd and 3rd streets, Augusta. Gates open until 8 p.m. daily. Explore the resting place for hundreds of Civil War casualities, including seven Confederate generals. Saturday Historic Trolley Tour of Augusta 706-724-4067. www.visitaugusta.com/CalendarFolder/ Events/Trolley-Tour Starts at the Augusta Museum of History, 2 p.m. Driving tour of historic downtown Augusta. Reservations required. Meadow Garden 1320 Independence Drive. 706-724-4174. www.visitaugusta.com Tour the home of George Walton, one of Georgia’s three signers of the Declaration of Independence. Ezekiel Harris House 1822 Broad St. 706-722-8454. www.augustamuseum.org/HarrisHouse Tour this 18th Century house, considered to be an outstanding example of early Federal style architecture. Heggie’s Rock Old Louisville Rd., Appling. 706-873-6946. www.nature.org (search for Heggie’s Rock) One of the finest remaining examples of a Piedmont flat rock outcrop. A 130-acre rock outcrop rising about 70 feet supports many rare and unusual plants. The area is closed to the public, but tours are available. See the website for details. Redcliffe Plantation State Historic Site 181 Redcliffe Road, Beech Island, S.C. 803-827-1473. www.southcarolinaparks.com/redcliffe Tour the restored home of former South Carolina Governor James Henry Hammond.

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Recreation and Family Fun Augusta GreenJackets

Want to get out and play, watch an athletic competition or put together a paint party? There’s so much to do in the CSRA and this listing will help you find ideas for family fun throughout the area. Active Climb https://www.activeclimbingaugusta.com/ 706-922-1054 augusta@activeclimbing.com 643 S. Old Belair Rd, Grovetown, GA AirStrike Extreme Air Sports Airstrike.info 706-510-0010 1249 Augusta West Parkway AirStrike’s indoor jumping facility includes a huge Ninja obstacle course, over 60 connected trampolines, foam pits and trapeze and a Euro wall trampoline. Almost Heaven Stables almostheavenstables.com 803-663-3001. 220 Golf Course Rd., Warrenville, S.C. Opened by Valeria and Dennis Beard to give kids and their families a nice clean place where they could come to enjoy learning about horses in a clean atmosphere. Bunk house rental, riding lessons, party packages and more. Artsy Me artsymestudio.com cricket.artsyme@gmail.com. 4275-B Washington Rd., Evans. 706-432-6396. Walk in or book a party. All ages welcome. Walk-ins can pick a project, either pottery or glass fusing, create your masterpiece and leave it with us to be fired (that process takes three to seven days). Augusta Aquatics Center 3157 Damascus Rd., Augusta, GA 706-261- 0424 www.www.augustaga.gov

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Augusta GreenJackets www.milb.com. thenderson@greenjacketsbaseball.com 706-922-9467. Lake Olmstead Stadium, 78 Milledge Rd., Augusta. A minor league baseball team that is a Class A affiliate of the San Francisco Giants. Lake Olmstead Stadium has been the home of the GreenJackets since the 1995 season. Season runs April-September. Group seating and party packages available. Augusta Jewish Community Center www.augustajcc.org. 706-228-3636. 898 Weinberger Way, Evans. For over 160 years, the AJCC has been a place where families and individuals come together for friendship, affiliation and fun in a safe and welcoming environment. Summer day camps, swimming lessons, banquet facility rental and more. Bricks 4 Kidz www.bricks4kidz.com. 706-513-5789. Specially designed project kits and theme-based models provide kids with the opportunity to solve problems and develop an appreciation for how things work, while having fun and socializing in a non-competitive atmosphere. Activities for children ages 3-13+, including after-school enrichment classes, week-long summer camps, birthday parties, in-school workshops, pre-school classes, Kidz Night Out and more. Brunswick National Lanes www.bowlbrunswick.com. 706-860-1668.

3067 Washington Road, Augusta. Forty lanes of family fun, arcade games, snack bar. Party packages available. Build-A- Bear Workshop Augusta Mall, 3450 Wrightsboro Rd., Augusta, GA 706-736- 0895 or 1-877- 789-2327 C & C Gymnastics 1340 Augusta West Parkway Augusta, 706-364-4785. Gymnastics classes from preschool and older. Recreational and teams available. Summer camps offered. Chuck E Cheese www.chuckecheese.com. 706-737-4557. 3435 Wrightsboro Rd., Augusta. Stop by for some fun, food (primarily pizza) and games or book a birthday party. You can also organize your own walk-in party without reserving a party package. Dolphin Academy 1833 Broad St, Augusta, GA 30904 Phone: (706) 364-5762 EdVenture Children’s Museum www.edventure.org 803-400-1168. Gervais St., Columbia. The largest children’s museum in the Southeast United States, located in Columbia, South Carolina. The Family YMCA of Greater Augusta Family Y of Aiken County www.thefamilyy.org.

803-349-8080. 621 Trolley Line Rd., Graniteville, S.C. Sign up for swim lessons in their outdoor pool and enjoy the waterpark and lazy river during the summer time. Family YMCA of Augusta South 706-922-9650 2215 Tobacco Road, Augusta. Family YMCA of Downtown Augusta. 706-922-6190 945 Broad Street, Augusta. Enjoy swimming laps, swim lessons or aquatic fitness in this facility’s indoor pool. Frankie’s Fun Park 140 Parkridge Drive Columbia, SC 29212 (803) 781-2342 The Marshall Family Y 706-364-3269. 1202 Town Park Lane, Evans. Family YMCA of North Augusta 803-278-0882 or 803-278-0883 401 Martintown Road, Suite 111, North Augusta. Steiner Branch Family YMCA 706-922-6711 218 Partnership Drive,Grovetown. Wilson Family YMCA. 706-922-9623 3570 Wheeler Rd., Augusta. This facility includes indoor and outdoor pools, water park and splash pad along with the largest indoor public aquatic therapy pool in the CSRA.

Gordon Lanes Bowling Center www.fortgordon.com/programs/leisure/ activities/gordon-lanes. 706-791-3446. Bldg. 33200, 3rd Ave., Fort Gordon. Gordon Lanes Bowling Center offers bowling for all ages. This center has 24 USBCsanctioned bowling lanes, electronic video and amusement machines, a full service snack bar, a pro shop, pool tables, video games, volleyball court and more. Gordon Lanes is open seven days a week for both open and league bowling. Graystone Ranch and Wildlife Education Center www.graystoneranch.com 706-360-0808. 1017 McManus Rd., Hephzibah. Graystone Ranch is a non-profit organization dedicated to children and environmental/wildlife conservation. We are a state and federally licensed rehabilitation center, sanctuary,and preserve. The ranch is a rustic preserve of antiquary where we try to preserve a part of the past for our future. Yee-Haa ‘N Company and Twin Lakes Expeditions are subsidiary companies of Graystone Ranch, Inc. Gymnastics Gold www.gymnasticsgold.com. 706-650-2111. 124 Cedar Ln., Augusta. Offering preschool and developmental gymnastics through a competitive program encompassing both the men’s and woman’s programs both of which have produced State and National Champions. Children’s birthday parties and summer camps offered. Haydens Gymnastics and Cheer Academy www.haydensgym.com. 706-868-0608. 4300 Evans to Lock Rd., Evans. Haydens coaches and staff help students develop an “I Can” attitude through lessons that teach not only physical, but also mental flexibility. All of our programs are developed with overall well-being in mind. Offering both recreational and competitive gymnastics for boys and girls as well as competitive and recreational cheer programs for ages 5-18. Parties, parents night out programs, Parkour, Physique Fitness and other programs are also offered. Hidden Forrest Equestrian Center hiddenforrest.net 706-825-6216. 1333 Jackson Rd., Augusta. With an 80’ vintage windmill, a 2 acre pond with swans, ducks, and a gazebo, to our soon to be completed water wheel, we are truly “A Touch Of Country In The City.” Offers riding lessons, pony rides, boarding and more. Hilltop Riding Stables www.fortgordon.com. 706-791-4864. N. Range Rd., Building 508, Fort Gordon. Hilltop Riding Stable offers more than 250 stunning acres of trails are available to horseback riders. Lessons are offered for

beginners to advanced riders. Pony rides and organized trail rides for groups are also conducted. Hoppy Feet Fun Center 701 Devika Dr., Suite 8, Grovetown. 706-755-2619. 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 www.augustamoonwalks.com. jumpcityrentals@gmail.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. Up the fun with an Sumo suits, a dunk tank, a rock wall, a popcorn machine, a snocone machine or a cotton candy machine. Tables and chairs, generators, inflatable movie screens and sound systems also are available. Jump’n Jitterbugs www.facebook.com/JumpinJitterbugs. 803-571-9001. North Augusta. Rent inflatable bounce houses, water slides and combo units. Free delivery and set up. Level Up Game Center www.level-up-augusta.com/parties. 706-305-3780. 3837 Martinez Blvd., Augusta. A place for avid gamers to meet up and compete. Most games are co-op or multiplayer, games that can be played with friends or in groups. It doesn’t matter if you prefer Atari or PS4, PC or Xbox 360, arcade or table top, as long as you enjoy the game you play we welcome you to play. Tournaments, special events and parties available. Little Dippers and Sip & Dip Painting Parties sip-and-dip.com. 706-699-4449, Haley Tam. Book an art party for adults or kids. Classes are also offered on a regular basis. My Best Friend’s Sewing Room www.facebook.com/mybestfriendssewingroom 706-993-8819. 3850 Washington Rd., Suite 4C. Sewing machine classes are for ages 9 & up. The “Sewing Seeds” club meets the third Saturday of the month from 10-noon. Birthday parties also offered. Palmetto Stables 410 Kirby Dr, North Augusta, SC 29841 Phone: (803) 439-3022 Petersburg Racquet Club 421 The Pass, Augusta, GA 30907 Phone: (706) 860-9288

Platinum Sports and Complete Game Address: 3855 Washington Rd, Martinez, GA 30907 Phone: (706) 814-5916 Premiere Martial Arts www.hensleypma.com. 803-640-8443. 401 West Martintown Rd., North Augusta. 706-432-6963. 701 Devika Dr., Grovetown. Email at info@hensleypma.com. Adult and children’s karate, kids birthday parties, Krav maga, self defense and more. Putt-Putt Fun Center www.augustagabirthdayparties.com 706-868-0083. 3763 Martinez Blvd., Martinez. Activities putt putt golf, laser tag, the game room, the Wet Zone and batting cages. Enjoy family fun or book a party. Red Wing Rollerway www.redwingrollerway.net. 706-860-1548. 3065 Washington Rd., Augusta. Enjoy an open skate session or book a party or fundraiser. Reed Creek Park and Wetland Interpretive Center 706-210- 4027 3820 Park Lane, Martinez, GA www.ReedCreekPark.com Riverwatch Luxury Cinemas 832 Cabela Drive Augusta, GA 706- 664-0925 Rolling Video Games www. RollingVideoGames.com rvgaugusta@aol.com 706-830- 4389 The Salvation Army Kroc Center salvationarmyaugusta.org/kroc-center/kidsfamily/birthday-parties Allyson_campbell@uss.salvationarmy.org 706-922-1533. 1833 Broad St., Augusta. Providing excellent programs, facilities and services to promote positive experiences for all people in the Greater Augusta Area. Facilities include a fitness center, gymnasium, sports and recreation programs, Aquatics Center and training, arts and education classes and more. Seigler’s Karate Center goskc.com Martinez: 4471 Columbia Rd. 706-855-5685. West: 370 Furys Ferry Rd., Ste. 1 706-364-3535. Karate classes for students ages 3.5 and up. Birthday party packages also offered. Shali’s Artery 706-951-8315 shali316@yahoo.com Skateland of Augusta www.skatelandofaugusta.com/Parties.htm. 706-796-4048. 2451 Windsor Spring Rd., Augusta. Private parties, birthday parties, adult skate

nights, skating lessons and more. Smocks Art Parties 742 McClure Drive, Augusta, GA 706-833- 9696 Southeast Jeet Kune Do 401 Shartom Dr, Augusta, GA 30907 (706) 364-8127 Southern Tang Soo Do Martial Arts Studio www.stsdkarate.com. 706-793-6603. 2007 Tobacco Rd., Augusta. Small classes led by experienced black belt instructors, with emphasis on Christian family values, make us your best choice for self-defense and martial arts training. Birthday party packages available. Stars and Strikes Bowling 3238 Wrightsboro Rd, Augusta, GA 30909 Phone: (678) 965-5707 Steed’s Dairy www.steedsdairy.com. 706-564-0220. 4635 Wrightsboro Rd., Grovetown. Steed’s Dairy is a real working dairy farm. Available activities include a petting zoo, jumping pillow, giant tube slide, rubber duckie races, preschool play area with swings and slides, corn kernel pit and more. During the fall Maize season enjoy hayrides, corn maze, pumpkin patch and real cow milking demonstrations. Available for children’s birthday parties. The Clubhouse Kids Puppet Theater 350 Marshall St., Martinez, GA 706-951- 7938 Tiaras & Pearls www.tiarasandpearls.net 706-922-7721. 3241 Washington Rd. New location coming soon. Tiaras and Pearls is a posh spot for all your tots and tweens pampering needs providing exhilarating, fun, relaxing spa experiences in an elegant, old-Hollywood setting fit for your princess. Van Gogh and Vino VanGoghandVino.com 706-284-6649. Home Rd., Suite 2-B. Le Pavilion Shopping Center. Caters to all ages and skill levels with painting classes and private parties for every occasion. You’ll paint and socialize in a relaxed setting in these artist-instructed classes. First-time painters welcome. XP Gaming Lounge www.xpgaminglounge.com or www.facebook.com/xpgaminglounge 706-524-2018 4534 Washington Road, Ste. 12, Evans. A cozy video gaming lounge located in Evans. Offers gaming on XBox Ones, high-end dedicated gaming PCs & the Wii U, with no lag at an affordable rate. Offers a variety of events from Parents’ Night Out with pajama parties to watch parties.

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Georgia Carolina State Fair

When the sun is shining and the kids are getting stir-crazy, head to one of the many local parks and playgrounds throughout the CSRA. We’ve included information on the amenities each park has to offer—and the great news for your family budget is that most are free! AIKEN COUNTY Boeckh Park 501 Front Street in Hammonds Ferry, North Augusta. Located on the Savannah River and a stretch of the North Augusta Greenway, the park boasts a large grass area, pavilion and dock. Brick Pond Park Located below the North Augusta Municipal Center on Center Street. Trails, pavilion and a chance to see aquatic life and birds. Bunting Park 2026 Bunting Drive, North Augusta. Park includes a childrens’ play area and picnic area. Carolina Bay Nature Preserve Price Avenue. 803-642-7631. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parks-playgrounds-natural-areas/carolina-bay-naturepreserve/ Walk trails, watch wildlife or just enjoy the pleasure of the woods and water that are only a few yards from Whiskey Road. This is a city facility with a difference: a natural wetland with minimal improvements and maximum tranquility. Charleston Street Playground 292 Charleston Street SE. 803-642-7636. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parks-playgrounds-natural-areas/charleston-streetplayground/ Park amenities include outdoor play system for ages 2 to 12, one and one-half basket-

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ball courts (no lights), sand box, swing set all with mulch as a fall safe zone. Citizens Park 651 Old Airport Road. 803-642-7761. Playground, walking paths, baseball/softball fields and soccer, covered eating areas and ore. Pets are welcome. City of Aiken—Sprayground & Track Rentals 945 Barry Johnson Blvd., Citizens Park. 803-642-7761. If you are looking to host a birthday party, gathering or special event, consider a rental of the citizens park fields, sprayground, or track! Call for details and information about our rental availability and pricing. Col. Leroy Hammod Park Corner of Knobcone Avenue and Curtis Avenue, North Augusta. This quiet neighborhood park is a block from North Augusta High School. Features a winding stream through the middle of the park along with a large playground for the kids. Creighton Park 600 Lake Ave., North Augusta, Features a large playground area and picnic shelter. Crosland Park Playground 1676 Aldrich Street NE, Aiken. 803-642-7636. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parksplaygrounds-natural-areas/crosland-parkplayground/ This fenced-in park includes a play system for ages 2-12, picnic shelter with five picnic tables, basketball court, walking track and numerous benches.

Curtis Drive Park 1812 Curtis Drive, North Augusta. Tot lot and picnic area. Davenport Park Corner of Georgia Avenue and Summer Hill Drive, North Augusta. Includes picnic tables and a large green space to relax and enjoy. Eustis Park Playground 1001 Edgefield Ave., Aiken. 803-642-7636. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parksplaygrounds-natural-areas/eustis-parkplayground/ Includes a play system for ages 2-12, tot swings, picnic shelters and tables, grills, tennis and basketball courts, walking track and more. Greeneway Trail 101 Riverview Park Drive, North Augusta. www.scgreatoutdoors.com/park-northaugustagreenway.html The North Augusta Greeneway follows an abandoned right-of-way of the former Central of Georgia Railway (later the Central Rail Road and Banking Company of Georgia). The trail meanders 5.5 miles through the riverfront community of North Augusta. It climbs only 200 feet or so over its course from the River Golf Club on the Savannah River through residential neighborhoods and wooded alcoves to its new northern terminus at Bergen Road, just north of I-20. Despite the dense suburban setting, a careful trail design engenders a surprisingly natural environment. Gyles Park 412 Park Ave. SE, Aiken. 803-642-7636.

https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parks-playgrounds-natural-areas/gyles-park/ Park has two swing sets and three picnic tables. Hammond/Wlliams Park 634 Orangeburg Street NE, Aiken. 803-642-7636. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parks-playgrounds-natural-areas/hammond-williamspark/ Includes a play system for ages 2-12, two board tic-tac-toe games, a swing set and benches. Hopelands Gardens 135 Dupree Place, Aiken. 803-642-7650. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parks-playgrounds-natural-areas/hopelands-gardens/ Wrapped behind a serpentine brick wall and under a canopy of ancient oaks, deodar cedars and magnolias, is Hopelands Gardens. The lazy curves of the paths and garden borders lead visitors throughout a wonderful variety of experiences sure to please visitors of all ages. Wetlands, The Doll House (the former playhouse and schoolhouse from the 1900s), fountains, historic gardens and more. Special events throughout the year. John C. Calhoun Park 100 West Forest Ave., North Augusta. (Between Georgia and Carolina Avenues.) This beautiful park is the setting for the annual lighting of the Christmas tree and Carols in the Park. Kalmia Hill Park 3311 Summit Drive, Aiken. 803-642-7636. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parks-playgrounds-natural-areas/kalmia-hill-park/

photo by Jon-Michael Sullivan

Parks & Playgrounds

Play system for ages 2-12, tennis and basketball courts, swing set and walking trail. Kennedy Colony Playground 1402 Redd Street SE, Aiken. 803-642-7636. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parks-playgrounds-natural-areas/kennedy-colonyplayground/ Play system for ages 2-12, bike rack, benches, one and one-half basketball courts. Library Park 355 York Street SE, Aiken. 803-642-7636. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parks-playgrounds-natural-areas/library-park/ Handicap accessible play system for ages 2-12, a gazebo, picnic table, benches, grill. Living History Park 299 W. Spring Grove Ave., North Augusta. www.colonialtimes.us/ A beautiful, natural setting which serves as a frequent community gathering spot for events such as Colonial Days in the Park. Maude Edgefield Park 400 E. Buena Vista Ave., Aiken. Tot lot, lighted tennis courts, picnic area and community center. Frequently hosts outdoor summer concerts. Osbon Park 346 Columbia Ave., Aiken. 803-642-7636. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parks-playgrounds-natural-areas/osbon-park/ Picnic shelter and tables, benches, walking track and water fountain. Perry Memorial Park 720 Abbeville Ave. NE, Aiken. 803-642-7636. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parksplaygrounds-natural-areas/perry-memorialpark/ Picnic shelter, sand walking track, pond, nine holes of disc golf on 24 acres. Riverview Park 100 Riverview Park Drive, North Augusta. 803-441-4311 The Riverview Park Activities Center is the hub of North Augusta’s parks and recreation facilities. Built in 1994, the 94,000 square foot center anchors the city’s 149-acre Riverview Park. Park includes access to the Greenway, walking/jogging track, baseball, softball and tennis, two playgrounds, picnic pavilion and disc golf course. Smith-Hazel Park 400 Kershaw Street NE, Aiken 803-642-7635. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parks-playgrounds-natural-areas/smith-hazel-park/ Basketball court, tennis courts, picnic tables, shelter with two grills, walking track and play system for ages 2-12. Summerfield Park 738 Old Edgefield Road, North Augusta. Spray Ground, basketball courts, shelter and picnic tables, multi-purpose playing fields,

drinking fountains and a walking/jogging track. Virginia Acres Park 1700 Whiskey Road, Aiken. 803-642-7631. https://www.cityofaikensc.gov/parks-playgrounds-natural-areas/virginia-acres-park/ Picnic shelter with picnic tables, walking track, play system for ages 2-12, soccer field, tennis, racquetball and basketball courts, 18 holes of disc golf and more. Wade Hampton Park 300 Georgia Ave., North Augusta Veterans park dedicated to the veterans of every war since the American Revolution. Walnut Lane Neighborhood Park Located in the Walnut Grove subdivision on St. Julian, North Augusta. Features a playground, a picnic area and a unique boardwalk trail.

AUGUSTA-RICHMOND COUNTY Augusta Aquatic Center 3157 Damascus Road. 706-261-0424. www.augustaga.gov/391/Aquatic-Center The Augusta Aquatics Center is the premier aquatic facility in the CSRA. You can swim laps, practice rolling over in a kayak, join an adult or Senior Aqua Fitness program, compete on a swimming or diving team. You can also take a lifeguard training course, practice your flips and spins in the diving area, don a scuba tank and explore underwater life, or even celebrate your birthday with a splash with all of your friends and family. Augusta Canal and the Augusta Canal Discovery Center 1450 Greene Street. 706-823-0440, ext. 7. hmadden@augustacanal.com. www.augustacanal.com. Explore the Augusta Canal. Whether you hike, bike, paddle or just float through Augusta Canal’s history on a guided boat tour, explore the recreation and outdoor experiences along miles of towpath, trail and canal waters. Explore the nation’s only industrial power canal still in use for its original purpose. Visit the Augusta Canal Discovery Center at Enterprise Mill to hear the stories of the people who built the canal in 1845 to harness the water and power of the Savannah River,and learn about the progress, problems and promise of its 170year history.

706-790-0588. www.augustaga.gov/1487/Bernie-WardCommunity-Center Includes a gymnasium, outdoor swimming pool, picnic area, playground and more. Brookfield Park 2740 Mayo Road. www.augustaga.gov/2160/Brookfield-Park Please call Warren Road Community Center at (706) 860-2833 for availability and booking. Amenities include a comfort station, two picnic areas, two shelters (electricity not included), water feature, walking track and two playgrounds. Carrie J. Mays Family Life Center 1014 Eleventh Ave. 706-821-2827/2828 www.augustaga.gov/1489/Carrie-J-MaysFamily-Life-Center Offers a gymnasium, outdoor basketball courts, outdoor shelter, playground and picnic area. Charles H. Evans Center & Wood Park 1866 Highland Avenue. 706-733-9210 or 706-261-0424 (Augusta Aquatic Center—for Splash Pad information). www.augustaga.gov/1490/Charles-HEvans-Center-Wood-Park Splash Pad hours: Monday-Friday, May 23-August 7: 2016, 10 a.m.-5p.m. Weekends, May 7-May 22, 2016 August 13-September 18, 2016: 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Includes a community building and rental facility, commercial kitchen, basketball courts, playground, open space and picnic areas, walking track and water play feature. Diamond Lakes Regional Park 4335 Windsor Spring Road, Hephzibah. Community Center: 706-826-1370. Adult Athletics: 706-771-2980. Library: 706-772-2432. www.augustaga.gov/614/Diamond-Lakes Hours: Open daily, 7 a.m.-dusk. A 286-acre park with two walking tracks, three wooded picnic areas with tables and grills, two playgrounds, four fully stocked fishing ponds, sand volleyball court, two horseshoe pits, a youth baseball/softball and adult complex, covered pavilion with 10 picnic tables and two grills.

Augusta Riverwalk Downtown Augusta www.augustaga.gov/292/Riverwalk The Augusta Riverwalk spans between 6th and 10th Streets in Downtown Augusta along the Savannah River. The Riverwalk consists of two bricked levels and the Jessye Norman Amphitheatre. The 9th Street and 10th Street Plazas host the two largest water features in downtown

Doughty Park 1200 Nellieville Road. 706-724-2044. www.augustaga.gov/1491/Doughty-Park Includes a community center, playground, athletic fields, tennis and basketball courts. Dyess Park 902 James Brown Blvd. 706-821-2877 www.augustaga.gov/1492/Dyess-Park Community building, picnic area, walking track, comfort station, basketball courts, swimming pool and more.

Bernie Ward Community Center 1941 Lumpkin Road.

Eastview Community Center and Park 644 Aiken Street.

706-312-5524 www.augustaga.gov/1493/Eastview-Community-Center-Park Amenities include an athletic ball field, comfort station, community building, outdoor shelter, outdoor walking track, picnic area and playground. Eisenhower Athletic Complex and Park 1488 Eisenhower Drive. 706-821-2800/2801. www.augustaga.gov/1494/EisenhowerAthletic-Complex-Park Athletic fields, district athletic office, open space, outdoor walking track and rental facility. Flemming Athletic Complex & Office 1915 Daniel Ave. 706-796-5047/5048. www.augustaga.gov/1495/Fleming-Athletic-Complex-Office Athletic fields, basketball courts, district athletic office, playground and rental facility. Flemming Tennis Center www.augustaga.gov/2203/Fleming-TennisCenter www.machacademy.com or call (706) 7965046. Programs and services provided include: Tutoring/Academic Support, Science, MACH Academy, Inc., established in April of 1992, is a non- profit 501(c) 3 community organization that provides year round classes and camps at the Fleming Tennis Center in Augusta, Georgia and satellite locations throughout the Central Savannah River Area. Programs include technology, engineering and math (STEM) sessions, mentoring, social skills development, tennis/fitness instruction and more. Henry H. Brigham Community Center, Park & Swim Center 2463 A Golden Camp Road. 706-771-2654/2655. www.augustaga.gov/1499/Henry-HBrigham-Community-Center Community Center and rental facility, tennis courts, walking track, comfort station, gymnasium, picnic area and playground. The Swim Center houses an indoor heated six-lane pool with handicap ramp. Jamestown Community Center and Park 3647 Karleen Road, Hephzibah. 706-790-1805. www.augustaga.gov/1501/JamestownCommunity-Center-Park Includes outdoor basketball courts, athletic fields, community building, open space, rental facility, playground, picnic area, outdoor walking track and outdoor shelter. Lake Olmstead Park 2309 Tobacco Road. 706-796-5025. www.augustaga.gov/1528/Lake-Olmstead-Park This lake/waterfront park includes an athletic field, comfort station, disc golf course, gazebo, outdoor walking track, picnic area, boat ramp and rental facilities.

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May Park Community Center 622 4th Street. 706-724-0504/0505. www.augustaga.gov/1504/May-ParkCommunity-Center Location includes a gymnasium, picnic area, playground, comfort station, rental facility, outdoor walking track, outdoor shelter and fitness room. Offers youth athletics, adult fitness programs and more. McBean Community Center 1155 Hephzibah-McBean Road, Hephzibah. 706-560-1814/2628. www.augustaga.gov/1505/McBean-Community-Center Facilities include a community building, playground, comfort station, open space, rental facility, outdoor shelter, picnic area, outdoor walking track and senior services center. Activities include after-school and parent’s night out programs and summer camps. McDuffie Woods Community Center 3431 Old McDuffie Road. 706-771-2656/2657. www.augustaga.gov/1506/McDuffieWoods-Community-Center Amenities include a community center and rental facility, gymnasium, picnic area, tennis courts, comfort station, outdoor basketball courts, outdoor shelter and computer lab. Activities include youth basketball and fitness, dance and karate classes. Minnick Park 1850 Kissingbower Road. 706-796-5025. www.augustaga.gov/1090/Minnick-Park Indoor facility includes a kitchen with tables and chairs for inside use only. Outdoors you’ll enjoy a playground, outdoor shelters and comfort station. Newman Tennis Center 3103 Wrightsboro Road. 706-821-1600. www.augustaga.gov/771/Newman-TennisCenter Newman Tennis Center is a municipal tennis facility with 18 hard courts (14 lighted). Offers beginner tennis lessons for adults and children. Pendleton King Park 1600 Troupe Street. Park Rentals – 706 796-5025. Park Caretaker – 706 564-7462. pendletonkingpark.com/ Summer Hours 8 a.m.-8 p.m. (Sunday 6 p.m.) Winter Hours 8 a.m.-6 p.m. Pendleton King Park is a 64-acre bird sanctuary of great topographic diversity with pine forests, sand ridges and marshes. Includes an arboretum, the Bark Park, a children’s sculpture garden, disc golf course, two playgrounds, trails and wetlands. Phinizy Swamp & Nature Park 1858 Lock and Dam Road.

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706-828-2109. phinizycenter.org/park-rentals/ (click on Kid’s Birthday Parties tab) Located on 1100 acres with 14 miles of biking and hiking trails, and just minutes from downtown Augusta, Phinizy Swamp Nature Park offers visitors the chance to see a variety of wildlife such as Blue Heron, Red-Shouldered Hawk, Otter, Alligator and the elusive Bobcat in their natural setting. Phinizy Swamp Nature park is free and open to the public 365 days a year from dawn until dusk. Special programs for all ages, such as guided hikes and bike rides, are scheduled throughout the year. Sand Hills Community Center & Park 2540 Wheeler Road. 706-842-1912 www.augustaga.gov/1509/Sand-HillsCommunity-Center-Park Facilities available include a community building, comfort station, picnic area, playground, rental facility and outdoor walking track. Activities include group exercise classes, arts & crafts classes and more. Warren Road Community Center 300 Warren Road. 706-860-2833/0986. www.augustaga.gov/1510/Warren-RoadCommunity-Center Amenities include a community building and rental facility, gymnasium, playground, covered picnic areas, comfort station, outdoor shelter, outdoor walking track, tennis courts (lights on Monday-Thursday) and outdoor basketball courts (lights on Monday-Thursday). Activities include afterschool programs, aerobics, dance, open basketball and more. WT Johnson Community Center 1610 Hunter Street. 706-821-2865/2866. www.augustaga.gov/1512/WT-JohnsonCommunity-Center Includes athletic fields, picnic area, playground, basketball court, rental facility, community building and gymnasium.

COLUMBIA COUNTY Blanchard Woods Park Blanchard Woods Road, Evans. www.columbiacountyga.gov/government-/ departments-l-r/parks-recreation-department/parks-facilities/blanchard-woods-park Four regulation soccer fields, an additional stadium soccer field and a certified cross country course for high school and college competition. The facility has been designed to host state, regional and national competitions. Euchee Creek Trails Harlem-Grovetown Road, Grovetown. Parking, restrooms and walking trails with scenic views. It is one of a series of greenways that will eventually link up and form one long trail that will go from Grovetown to Patriots Park. Another greenway, Grovetown Trails at Euchee Creek, already

exists and will be linked up with Euchee Creek Greenway in the future.

shelters, special family events throughout the year, canoe outings and more.

Evans Towne Center Park 7016 Evans Town Center Blvd., Evans. 706-650-5005. evanstownecenterpark.com/ Playground, splash pad, dog park, pavilions and walking track. B-cycle is a bike sharing system located in Evans Towne Center Park that allows patrons to rent bikes for recreational use around Evans. The park is home to the Lady Antebellum Amphitheatre, which regularly is host to family events and concert.

Patriots Park 5445 Columbia Rd, Grovetown, 706-863-7523 www.columbiacountyga.gov/government-/ departments-l-r/parks-recreation-department/parks-facilities/patriots-park Two playground areas, a walking track, 18hole disc golf course, soccer fields, tennis courts, softball and baseball fields, batting cages, and a gymnasium with basketball and volleyball courts. A variety of facilities are available to rent from a multi-purpose room to gyms and pavilions.

Goodale Park 5200 Wrightsboro Road, Grovetown. Two ball fields, basketball court charcoal grills, parking, playground, picnic area, walking trail and tennis courts. Harlem Park 385 Church Street, Harlem. www.columbiacountyga.gov/government-/ departments-l-r/parks-recreation-department/parks-facilities/harlem-park Amenities include a T-Ball field, youth baseball fields, a batting cage, tennis court, basketball courts, two playgrounds with picnic areas and a covered picnic pavilion. International Disc Golf Center International Disc Golf Association Wildwood Park, Appling. 706-261-6342 www.pdga.com or www.pdgatour.com The International Disc Golf Center opened at Wildwood Park on April 20, 2007. This 2,700 square facility is equipped with a full service pro shop, snack vending area, commons area, meeting rooms, and handicap accessible restrooms. Also located at the center is the “Steady” Ed Headrick Museum that showcases historical items from the early days of the sport. Kiddie Park 105 Whiskey Road, Grovetown. Benches, parking, picnic areas, slides and toys. Liberty Park 1040 Newmantown Road, Grovetown. All fields, community center, concession stand, multi-purpose fields and more. Community Center includes a basketball court, fitness center, gym, kitchen, meeting rooms and more. Memorial Park 100 W. Robinson Ave., Grovetown. Benches, gazebo, memorial wall, military cannon, parking and swings. Mistletoe State Park 3725 Mistletoe Rd., Appling. 706-541-0321. mistletoe.park@dnr.ga.gov www.gastateparks.org/mistletoe Located on 71,100-acre Clarks Hill Lake near Augusta, this park is known as one of the finest bass fishing spots in the nation. Ninety-two campsites, picnic areas, group

Reed Creek Park and Wetland Interpretive Center 3820 Park Lane, Martinez. 706-210-4027. www.ReedCreekPark.com. Trails are open sunrise to sunset, 7 days a week. A map is posted on the front door of the education building. Special children’s programs are regularly scheduled and family movie nights and other fun family events are scheduled throughout the year. Savannah Rapids Park 3300 Evans to Locks Road Augusta, GA 30907 This 33 acre park is home to the Savannah Rapids Pavilion and the Historic Augusta Canal Headgates. This newly developed area overlooks the picturesque Reed Creek Falls as it flows into the Historic Augusta Canal. Walkers and joggers love the pedestrian bridge that begins the 7.5 mile trail that takes you all the way to Augusta. Or you may simply chose to sit along the banks of Reed Creek and listen to the water rushing past. Picnic pavilions offer shade and a covered area to stop and rest or eat lunch. Riverside Park 4431 Hardy McManus Road, Evans. Park includes youth baseball/softball fields, tennis courts, two playgrounds, a boat ramp and fishing dock/pier, batting cages and two shelters. The Riverside Dog Park is located behind Riverside Park. Wildwood Park 3780 Dogwood Lane, Appling. 706-541-0586. Email: wildwoodpark@columbiacountyga. gov. www.columbiacountyga.gov/government-/ departments-l-r/parks-recreation-department/parks-facilities/wildwood-park Wildwood Park is located on Thurmond Lake (also known as Clarks Hill Lake). This 975 acre park offers access to the 72,000acre lake which is excellent for fishing and boating activities. Park includes 61 campsites, six lane-mega boat ramps, large parking lot with 231 spaces, home of the International Disc Golf Center & Hall of Fame and three championship disc golf courses, beach area, picnic area, seven covered pavilions and clean restroom and shower facilities in each camping area.

‘Tiny Miracles’ A Mother’s Relentless Journey of Faith, Hope and Courage. by Dr. Dana Harris | photos by Celina DeSantis Photography There is no role in life more essential or more eternal than that of motherhood. It is among the most complex and demanding role imaginable. The joys and treasures come in moments. There will be hard times and frustrating times but amidst all the challenges, there are shining moments of joy and satisfaction. A mother’s role and sacred duty is to rear her children in love and righteousness, to provide for their physical, emotional and spiritual needs, to teach them to love and serve one another,

and to foster loving encouragement so that they can develop toward their highest potential. While both mothers and fathers are essential to a child’s healthy development, it is the mother whose emotional and spiritual impact reaches far beyond circumstances and feelings. Mothers overlook a child’s imperfections and limitations and choose instead to celebrate the gift of love of a child. When a mother has nurtured the developing child in her own body, she feels a compelling and undeniable drive to protect

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her child. A mother’s love for her child is unlike that of any other and because of that I am inspired to share my daughter’s story, a story of faith, hope, courage and resilence. On the morning of March 8, 2017(a day that will forever remain in my heart, mind and soul for many years to come), we received the most chilling phone call of our lives. There was a voice on the other end of the phone, telling us that our daughter, Tanya had given birth to her son at 27 weeks. These startling words echoed in my ear for what seemed like hours. My initial reaction was, “Why did God allow this to happen?” A tiny human being had come into this world three months earlier than expected, weighing only two pounds and three ounces. What was more disturbing was that my daughter delivered her newborn baby all alone in her home without any warning signs whatsoever. The possibility of losing both my daughter and grandson were unimaginable. When we arrived at the hospital, our daughter was heavily sedated with tubes and wires were hooked in and around her body that somehow seemed like an endless web. Our premature grandson had been rushed to the NIC Unit, where he laid helplessly with paper-thin skin and eyes that couldn’t yet open. He was attached to machines and IV lines and was fighting zealously for his life. The days ahead seemed like an eternity. You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have. Our tiny miracle remained in NICU for 60 days until finally coming home on oxygen and a monitor. Both my daughter and her husband are truly blessed to have received the reassurance and support of such a devoted medical team and now they are extremely committed to helping premature babies survive against staggering odds. In the U.S., more than 450,000 babies are born premature and the numbers are increasing at an alarming rate according to the March of Dimes Organization. This non-profit continues to do extraordinary work, aggressively tracking and improving the country’s pre-term birth rate. Delivering a premature baby is undoubtedly quite different from what parents-to-be dream about when they make plans for their little one. As my daughter remained in the hospital for several weeks, undergoing numerous surgeries, we remained optimistic and encouraged. My son-in- law, Brian, who I absolutely adore, is to be admired for his profound sense of faith as well as the love, support and attentiveness which he demonstrated throughout this overwhelming experience. As a loving hus-

band and father, he remained by my daughter’s side both day and night reassuring her. What’s more amazing is that he would visit the NICU daily, watching over his tiny son for hours while praying, holding him and whispering gentle words of love and comfort in his ear. As a mother and grandmother, I remain continually humbled by the enormous opportunities I’ve had raising my daughter. I discovered extremely early that parenthood affords us many occasions in which we find ourselves in a battle between our mind and our heart. We enter the parenting journey with visions of what it will be. For the most part, these visions are filled with fantasies, beliefs and assumptions. A mother’s job is to take care of the possible and trust God with the impossible. Nothing turns us into bitter, selfish and dissatisfied people more quickly than an ungrateful heart and nothing will do more to restore contentment and joy than a true spirit of gratitude and appreciation. I will always be eternally grateful for the guidance and support of an extraordinary medical team along with the praise and encouragement we received from family members during this life altering experience. It gives me great pleasure to announce that our adorable little miracle, Bryce, is now one year old. He’s healthy, happy, learning and growing each and every day. He is such a joy to have in our lives and his big sister, London is enjoying every precious moment she gets to spend with her little brother. I am filled with an immense level of pride for my daughter because of the incredible mother and wife that she is and the remarkable, amazing woman that she has ultimately become. As her mom, I have tried to provide my daughter with insight into the important things in life while encouraging her to always walk with confidence, compassion, humility and dignity which I often refer to as “the essentials for living authentically.” May she continue to hold on to her passions, knowing that I will always be there for her with an open heart and loving arms, pushing her every step of the way with faith, hope and courage. Happy Mother’s Day to each and every one of you! Dr. Dana Harris successfully completed 30 years of service with Richmond County Schools and retired as an elementary principal in 2016. She holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Georgia Southern and has been married 38 years. The couple has a daughter, Tanya Meriweather and two beautiful grandchildren, London and Bryce.

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Inspiration Station D u sti n Tur n er Ph otos cour t esy o f S A IL

SAIL SAIL is about to put its first school year in the record books and administrators already are planning for growth. The School for ArtsInfused Learning is Columbia County’s first charter school and provides students in grades K-6 with a rigorous academic and arts curriculum. The school must be doing something right: Next year’s enrollment is full at 504 students and there is a waiting list of about 1,400. That enrollment includes the addition of seventh grade. Other additions for the 2018-19 school year include full-time gifted, Spanish and special education teachers. The school also has launched a $1.5 million capital campaign to construct a second building, which is expected to be complete by December. Director of Curriculum, Ann Sturkey said when people donate to the capital campaign, they are investing in more than a building. “It’s all about what that building will house. We want people to invest in success. Invest in innovation. Invest in opportunities. Invest in scholar advancement.” Community interest in the school – and a full enrollment – prompted SAIL administrators to

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plan summer camps. Classes, which are open to the community, will include arts (dance, drama, art), sports (field hockey, flag football, baton) and Imaginarium (cake decorating, space, mad scientist). The camp is open to children ages 5-13. Go to www.sailga.org for more information. “Because we can only take so many students, we want to give everyone a little piece of SAIL, even if they can’t come during the school year,” said Dr. Michael Berg, the director of student services. “We want children to be able to have a SAIL experience and to offer a service for working parents that is a skills-based camp, not just daycare.” In the meantime, SAIL is celebrating. The school received a grant from Kaboom and Carmax for playground equipment in honor of military families. The equipment was unveiled in April during an event in which military families could participate in active play with their children. That event was the inaugural SAIL Family Day of Play and will continue on the second Thursday of April from now on. “This is being done to promote active play,”

explained SAIL Superintendent Kristy Zgol. “Society increasingly has turned to technology to watch their children. We want families to actively play with their children. We have lost that whole sense of play and imagination.” Another inaugural event that Zgol expects to be annual is the May 19 SAIL-ebration. “Traditionally, schools have field days or carnivals. We are going with our arts-infusion theme and students will be showing off their work. Our fine arts teachers have been working hard to develop that day to be an annual event.” In the first year, SAIL’s teachers and students have fully embraced the arts-infused curriculum. “The teachers have written curriculum and have created plans that are very well aligned,” Zgol said. “They are designing assessments that allow students to perform, produce, compose and collaborate. Students are the creators of their learning, and teachers are facilitating that so well - more than we could have ever wished for.” The students have been a source of joy for Sturkey. “I have greatly enjoyed watching the student growth through the school year. We

Inspiration Station

had some students who were somewhat hesitant, not quite sure of their place in SAIL when they started. They have jumped onboard and are enjoying school. Just to walk hallways and see the excitement of not just the teachers but students, too -that has been a pure joy to me.” Not only do students seem to be enjoying SAIL, Zgol said, they seem proud of the school and protective of its culture. To capitalize on that, a school-wide character education program will be introduced next year. “They are going to take control of managing the school’s climate. They will be encouraged to step up and remind others, ‘That’s not the way we do it here at SAIL’ or ‘We don’t talk to others that way.’ It will be character education that they will take to their peers and hold their peers accountable to the SAIL principles. Zgol said character education is one way to prevent violent tragedies at SAIL. “We feel that our students have a lot more impact on their peers if they are the ones who say ‘Hey, that’s not cool’ because it has less impact if it comes from an adult. We have been brainstorming ways of empowering our students to be the ones to stand up and hold their peers accountable.” All the growth and reasons to celebrate don’t come easily. Perhaps the biggest challenge, Sturkey said, has been trying to get teachers to let go of traditional ways of running a class. “Teachers don’t have to have that mindset that everything has to be focused on testing,” she said. “We have to remind them to trust what they do in the classroom to trust themselves as teachers. As they incorporate arts infusion, the students are going to get it. It may not be through multiple tests and quizzes and assessment after assessment, but through the engagement of how students are learning in the classroom.” That is not to say, however, that SAIL does not adhere to strict academic standards. “The biggest misconception with arts infusion,” Zgol said, “is that people think you are teaching a content area

and add an art project or throw in a craft or song or dance, and that is not the case all. The rigor here is much different than traditional schools because we expect them to excel in all of the content area, the arts and foreign language. On report cards, they are not just getting marks of ‘Satisfactory.’ They are having to show mastery of all of these areas.” Berg emphasized that SAIL gives equal weight to academia, the fine arts and foreign language. “Some students do not qualify for Beta Club or other academic milestones because they are not meeting the expectation in Spanish, for example. So the rigor is across the board here.” As in any school, some students might find it difficult to excel in a particular area. To meet that need, SAIL is seeing the need to provide remediation and help students get on track. Students are expected to succeed in academic content, foreign language and fine arts, but they also are expected to participate and collaborate. “In other schools, students are OK even if they are not participating as long as they don’t interrupt,” Zgol explained. “Here, they have to show mastery of the standards, so if we see students not participating, we investigate to see why.” The master plan for SAIL includes adding grades 8 through 12. Academic expectations will remain the same for all students, Berg said, regardless of their post-education plans. Whether students plan to go to an Ivy League college or trade school or straight into the workforce, they all learn the same principles. “It doesn’t matter what you go into, education should be rigorous. As they move through middle and high school years, we want to expose them to scenarios that improve confidence, oral skills, communications and persuasion. We expect our students to be competing for jobs in a global economy.” Sturkey said she gets asked a lot what the school’s arts-infused curriculum looks like. SAIL follows the Georgia Standards of Excellence, “and

we mirror that with an arts standard and weave the two together where focus isn’t just on one content area. Our teachers take an academic standard and an arts standard and weave the two together to create a beautiful lesson. The content is enhanced by the arts standard, and vice versa.” A class that recently studied World War II in social studies took a look at the propaganda posters and political cartoons in visual arts class. At one point, the students created their own propaganda posters. “They aren’t just drawing a picture,” Sturkey said, “They were incorporating everything they learned. They were able to take a stance on religion or not being a bully or ‘who you are is beautiful.’ They weren’t just learning history; they were able to have some self-realization as well. It was very personal for them.” The advantages of an arts-infused education are evident when students talk about what they learned, Zgol added. “They pick out the standards they were working on in social studies and in art.” SAIL is making plans that include growth. In the next few years, SAIL will be a full K-12 school with about 950 students and three buildings on campus. True success in five years, Berg said, would be to see SAIL’s model replicated. “We would love to see additional charter schools moving to the area replicating all or some of our components. We would love to see more school choice. We will have the data to support why this will be a success.” For more information on SAIL, its capital campaign or the summer camps, go to sailga.org or call (762) 585-1400.

Dustin Turner is an SEO and Content Specialist for Main Street Digital. He has been married to his high school sweetheart, Jamie, for 20 uears, and they have a 10-yearold daughter, Abigail. The whole family enjoys performing in community theater. Augusta Family | May 2018 • 41

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calendar

Thunder over evans May 19. Thunder Over Evans. Armed Forces Day at Evans Towne Center Park. The CSRA’s public celebration of Armed Forces Day. It’s the perfect opportunity to bring together the public and the military for a fun filled day of events and a tribute to those who serve. Visit www.thunderoveraugusta.com.

We’d love to hear from you. If you have an event you’d like to add to our next issue, send an email to karin.calloway@ augustafamily.com.

M ay

Special Events May 4 at 11:00 a.m. Barney’s Cinco de Miles 5K Run/Walk. The race will begin in the parking lot of the Lake Olmstead Trailhead located on the augusta Canal. $25 race fee. Visit www.runsignup.com. May 4. The Hat Party. The Imperial is celebrating its 100th anniversary with a gala. The Hat Party will include hor d’oeuvres, drinks, a photo booth and spectacular hats! (*Drinks will include a craft beer and vodka tasting). At

8:00 p.m., following the reception attendees are welcome to attend a free concert featuring the J.A.M.P Band, and a free screening of the Marx Brother’s “A Day at the Races” Visit www.imperialtheatre.com. May 5. 25th Annual Blind Willie McTell Blues Festival in Thomson, Ga. This one day roots and blues music festival is always held in honor of Thomson’s Blind Willie McTell, an early 20th Century pioneer on the 12 string guitar. Working out of East Nashville, it starts with Oklahoma’s J D McPherson, bringing a combo

sound rooted in the rock and roll, rockabilly and rhythm and blues music of the 1950s. Joining McPherson will be the dynamic guitarist/ vocalist Samantha Fish, Louisiana’s Kenny Neal, Woodstock, NY native, Amy Helm, Georgia’s own Randall Bramblett and the country blues of Jerron “Blind Boy “Paxton.” Visit www.blindwillie.com. May 5. Todrick Hall. Comedian. Experience the ultimate VIP treatment. One premium seat, early entry, post show meet and greet, photo opportunity, and guided backstage tour. Augusta Family | May 2018 • 43

DISNEY’S THE LITTLE MERMAID Presented by The Augusta Players Take a trip under the sea with The Augusta Players, as Disney’s The Little Mermaid makes its Augusta debut. Based on one of Hans Christian Andersen’s most beloved stories and the classic animated film, Disney’s The Little Mermaid is a hauntingly beautiful love story for the ages. With music by eight-time Academy Award winner, Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman and Glenn Slater and a compelling book by Doug Wright, this fishy fable will capture your heart with its irresistible songs, including “Under the Sea,” “Kiss the Girl,” and “Part of Your World.” Come fall in love with this enchanting and magical Broadway musical for the first time–or all over again! May 11-13, 2018

Visit www.millertheateraugusta.com. May 8. Story Time in the Gardens. Instill a love of reading in your child that will last a lifetime. Hopelands Gardens oﬀers the perfect atmosphere for an afternoon story and fun with friends. This season’s theme is “All Things Spring.”Tuesdays through May at4:00 p.m. Cost: Free Admission Location: Hopelands Gardens — Sand Patio Rain Out Location: Odell Weeks Activities Center Duration: 30-45 Minutes Ages: 8 and Under May 9. WHOSE LIVE ANYWAY? The current cast members of the Emmy-nominated TV show Whose Line Is It Anyway? are proud to present their new improv tour. 90 minutes of

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hilarious improvised comedy and song all based on audience suggestions. Cast members Ryan Stiles, Greg Proops, Jeﬀ B. Davis, and Joel Murray will leave you gasping with the very witty scenes they invent before your eyes. Audience participation is key to the show so bring your suggestions and you might be asked to join the cast onstage! The act showcases some of the improv games made famous on the longrunning TV show as well as some exciting new ones. All ages welcomed! Visit www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.

Peanut, celebrating 45 years in radio broadcasting. Oﬃcial After Party held at The Miller. Visit www.millertheater.com.

May 10. Three Dog Night. Doors at 7:00 p.m. Show at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are $47 to $96. Visit www.millertheater.com.

May 11 & 12. Aiken Bluegrass Festival at the Western Carolina State Fairground. Greensky Bluegrass and Leftover Salmon. In addition to the two hottest bands in bluegrass right now, the rest of the jampacked festival includes Billy Strings, Larry Keel Experience, The Lil Smokies, Lindsay Lou, Jon Stickley Trio, Love Canon, Grass Is Dead, Brad Parsons Band, Greg Burns & Friends, Rumpke Mountain Boys, Burle Galloway, Delta Cane, Part & Parcel, Tenth Mountain Division, and Doug & The Henrys. Visit www.eventbrite.com.

May 11. Mother’s Day Weekend Southern Soul Festival. Featuring Tucka, Sir Charles Jones and Lebrado. A tribute to The Mighty

May 12. The Augusta Market. This outdoor market is overﬂowing with local vendors showcasing and selling their goods. Shop for local fruits, veg-

963 KISS FM WELCOMES THE SOUTHERN SOUL MOTHER DAY CELEBRATION! Friday, May 11th at 9:00 p.m. at The Historic Miller Theater Live in-concert-Tucka, Sir Charles Jones and Labrado! The Southern Soul Mother’s Day Fest Salutes The Mighty Peanut 45th Radio Anniversary! It’s gonna be a night to remember Friday April 11th at the Miller Theater! Listen to win and tickets on Sale Now at millertheateraugusta.com - Listen and win from 963 Kiss FM Today’s R&B and Oldschool!

gies, honey, baked goods and coﬀee along with locally made art, home decor, accessories and lots more at the 8th Street Riverwalk entrance. May 12. Lett’s Dance with Mario Lett. Jessye Norman School or Arts. This fun class will introduce the theory, concept, and dance instruction of partner dancing in the styles of Latin and Swing. No experience necessary. Partner encouraged, but not required. The fee for this class is only $7 for each participating dancer! This class is also every 2nd and 4th Saturday of each month! Visit, www.jessyenormanschool.org. May 16. Brian Wilson, Pet Sounds. Garnering critical acclaim and marking a true return to form, Brian Wilson continues to deliver a live performance of Pet Sounds in its entirety, as well as top hits and fan favorites

spanning his 54-year career with The Beach Boys and as a solo artist. Universally hailed as a writer of one of the greatest American songbooks, Pet Sounds has reigned atop countless critic and fan polls, and has maintained its timeless rank as one of popular music’s most-cited inﬂuences. Visit www. augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. May 18. Paula Poundstone. Comedian. Tickets prices currently available for reserved seats $43 and $33. Visit www.millertheater.com. May 19. Two show times, 10 am & 3 pm 602 Georgia Ave., North Augusta. FamBlitz inspires families to work together and think like a team! Parents & kids will be able to participate in a variety of games & challenges both on stage and from their seats! A biblical message is woven in throughout the games and crowd

challenges. Power packed fun you won’t want to miss! May 21. Charleston Riverdogs at Augusta GreenJackets. SRP Park, North Augusta, SC. Visit www.greenjackets2018.com. May 23. Boomwhackers, hand drums, egg shakers – oh my! Spend quality time with your children in this fun and educational music & movement classes! There will be music games, instrument stories, rhythm instruments, puppets, scarves, and echo games. Ages 2-4. Class for ages 5-7 available. Visit, www. salvationarmyaugusta.org. May 25. Sugarland at James Brown Arena. Still the Same 2018 tour with special guests Brandy Clark and Clare Bowen. Tickets available at www.georgialinatix.com and the SRP box oﬃce at James Brown Arena.

Augusta Family | May 2018 • 45

Girl Go

PHOTO BY JOHN HARPRING

b y Ren ee William s

Molly Senn MOLLY SENN is the owner of fab’rik Augusta and fab’rik Hilton Head Island. She is married to Mark Senn, a commercial real estate developer with Southeastern. Molly has three children: Brant, Chris and Mary and a daughter-in-law, Stephanie. She also has three grandchildren, Kip, 3, Hayes, 19 months and Graham four months. The couple have two pets, Posh and Becks who are Airedale Terriers. As part of her boutique, fab’rik which boasts “high style with a heart,” Molly has partnered with the Rape Crisis Center to help raise runds in the area. Every year, Molly helps with LLS Man and Woman of the Year campaign. Every fab’rik store sponsors a child in Africa through Progect82 and selling their Asher line. One word you would use to describe yourself: Generous.

Hardest part about being a mom? Letting your children learn from their mistakes.

If you could have any job, what would you choose? I’m doing it now!

Favorite indulgence? I drink a lot of TAB.

What quality do you most admire the most? Kindness.

What was you first job? Lifeguard.

Dream vacation? To see the Northern Lights in Finland.

Whom do you admire the most? My entire fab’rik family, from corporate to all the women who own fab’rik franchises, the stores managers and the stylist. They go above and beyond to make sure every customer has WOW experience when they shop at fab’rik.

Favorite place to take the kids? Exploring Europe. If you had a super power, what would it be? Flying, because I don’t like being confined in a plane.

Signature dish? Mac n cheese.

What did you want to be when you grew up? A mom.

Greatest hope: A more peaceful world for my grandchildren.

Hobbies? Traveling.

Biggest fear: Being in enclosed spaces.

Is there an important life lesson you’ve learned? Don’t sweat the small stuff!

What inspires you? When a customer comes into the store and is having a bad day or not feeling very good about themselves and after we help style her, she leaves the store feeling beautiful and confident.

What would surprise people about you? I love going to indie rock music festivals. Best thing about being a mom? Seeing my children grow up to be happy, compassionate, caring and successful adults.

46 • Augusta Family | May 2018

Song plying in your head: Rodeo by Futurebirds. For more info on Fab’rik, visit www.fabrikstyle.com.