November 2015 SAY GOODBYE TO PINTEREST PERFECTION TODDLER-PROOFING YOUR HOLIDAYS 30 GREAT GIFT IDEAS
Kristian, 3, and Khloe Clay, 5, are the children of Dameon and Leila Clay of Evans.
Family AUGUSTA
m a g a z i n e
w w w. a u g u s t af a m i l y. c om PUBLISHER Ashlee Griggs Duren EDITOR Karin Calloway
Contents 25
30
November 2015
PRODUCTION Art Director / Web Producer Michael Rushbrook ADVERTISING Director of Advertising Lisa Dorn Advertising Sales Doressa Hawes Lisa Taylor Maidi McMurtrie Thompson Mary Porter Vann Audience Development Manager Margaret Ranew PHOTOGRAPHY Carter Koenig Photography John Harpring CONTRIBUTORS Kim Beavers, MS, RD, CDE J. Ron Eaker, M.D. Cammie Jones Mary Ashton Mills Jennie Montgomery Dustin Turner PRE PRESS SERVICES .JDLFZ ,JCMFS r ,FMMZ :J Augusta Family Magazine is published 10 times per year and distributed throughout the Augusta and Aiken area. Send press releases, story ideas or comments to the editor at karin.calloway@augustafamily. com or mail to 725 Broad Street, Augusta, Ga., 30901 or telephone (706) 828-3946. For advertising information, telephone The Fourfold Trap (706) 823-3702. For circulation/distribution, call (706) 823-3722.
Scrap the Pinterest Perfect Christmas
30 Great Gifts for Giving
By Mary Ashton Mills
November
departments 7 9
editor’s page mom2mom
Birthday Wishes for Dad -Jennie Montgomery
10 15
Thankful for...Dessert!
18
24
34
Quick and Easy Hostess Gifts
fun food
A Complete Thanksgiving Dinner Made Easy
inspiration station
John’s World Teen With Rare Disease Doesn’t Give Up -Dustin Turner
Breastfeeding—Got Milk?
smart mom’s guide
Toddler-Proofing Your Holidays
-Courtesy of Family Features
doctor/dad -J. Ron Eaker, M.D.
health&home -Mary Ashton Mills
news&notes eating well with kim -Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE and Arielle Weekley, MS, Dietetic Intern
17
22
36 46
-Cammie Jones
calendar go girl! Merry Glenne Piccolino -Karin Calloway
qu ick pick “Today’s generation has the bar set alarmingly high due to the pressures of perfection from the multitude of inspirational social media posts. Now, holidays at my house are filled with anxiety because I’m always aspiring to be some version of you, ‘the perfect Pinterest mom.’” Read Mary Ashton Mills’ article about letting go of Pinterest perfection and getting back to the real meaning of the holidays on page 30.
ON THE COVER Shaylee Paige Horton, 3, is the daughter of Nick and Jessica Horton of Hephzibah. Shaylee was selected through our Fresh Faces contest. (Go to augustafamily.com to enter your child.) Photo by Carter Koenig Photography.
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editor’s editor’s by Karin Calloway by Karin Calloway
At the beacn with Dave and Bond, 2010. At the beach with Dave and Bond, 2010.
T
he holiday song may state that, “It’s the most wonderhe may state “It’s the most wonderful holiday time of song the year‌â€? but that, for many families, the holiful time of the year‌â€? but for many families, holidays represent a time of grief. For some, the the holidays days represent a time of grief. For some, the holidays are a reminder of the loss of a loved one they suffered are ayear, reminder the loss a loved one they years ago. Last for myoffamily, theofloss was fresh. Mysuffered brother years ago. Last year, for my family, the loss was fresh. My brother passed away on October 26 of last year, leaving us heartbroken as passed on October 26 of last year, us heartbroken as we triedaway to muddle our way through theleaving holidays. we tried muddlebrother, our way Dave through the holidays. Mytoyounger Gage, would have been 50 in My younger brother, Dave Gage, would 50 in May. He battled metastatic melanoma for a littlehave overbeen two years. May. He battled metastatic melanoma for a little over two years. He was a surfer and skateboarder in his teen years and we were He was surfer and skateboarder in his teen years andhewe werea born in aCalifornia and grew up in Florida. That meant spent born in California and grew up in Florida. That meant he spent a lot of time in the sun. And, believe me, macho surfers didn’t say lot of time in the sun. And, believe me, macho surfers didn’t say to one another, “Hey, dude, can you put sunscreen on that spot I to one another, “Hey, Hopefully dude, can you sunscreen on that spot I missed on my back?â€? theyput do now. missed on my back?â€? Hopefully they do now. It Gets Better It Gets Better
A year later, the loss is still profound and I’m still about A year later, lossa ismeltdown still profound I’m moment. still aboutI two seconds awaythe from at anyand given two seconds away from a meltdown at any given moment. don’t have a childhood memory without Dave in it and weI don’t have close a childhood in my it and we were very growing memory up and aswithout adults. Dave He was biggest were very close growing up and as adults. He was my biggest cheerleader (Ok, Mom, you can keep that title) and a wondercheerleader (Ok, IMom, canonkeep that title) and a wonderful friend whom couldyou count for great advice and a joke at ful friend whom I could count on for great advice and a joke at just the right moment. just the rightthe moment. I think holidays this year will be a bit better than last I think the holidays this will be betterthat thanDave last year. The loss isn’t as fresh. Butyear missing thea bit laughter Miles for Melanoma walk in Atlanta with Leslie year. The loss isn’t as fresh. But missing the laughter that Dave brought to our family celebrations will make things feel more Miles forand Melanoma walk in Atlanta Marcus our friend Alyson Levin.with Leslie brought to our family celebrations will make things feel more than a little hollow. Marcus and our friend Alyson Levin. than a little hollow. If you’re grieving the recent loss of a loved one this holiday season I can tell you that a year later it’s gotten better. In If you’re grievingthat theIrecent loss of“normal. a loved one season I canItell youofthat a year laterup it’singotten better. In September I realized actually felt â€? Histhis lossholiday isn’t the first thing think when I wake the morning. September I realized that I actually felt “normal. â€? His loss isn’t the first thing I think of when I wake up in the morning. Recently, my younger sister and I completed a 5k fundraiser called Miles for Melanoma in honor of my brother. Recently, my younger sister andhim I completed a 5k fundraiser called for Melanoma in honor of my brother. It gave us something to do to honor and also help fund research for Miles new treatments for melanoma. It gave us something to do to honor him and also help fund research for new treatments for melanoma. Facing the Holiday Season Facing the Holiday Season My former publisher and friend, Kate Metts, shared a series of booklets on grief with me and there is one speMy dedicated former publisher and friend, Kate Metts, of booklets with meprogram and there one specifically to “Surviving the Holidays. â€? Youshared can geta series the books throughon thegrief Griefshare at isAldersgate cifically dedicated to “Surviving the Holidays. â€? You can get the books through the Griefshare program at Aldersgate United Methodist Church or at griefshare.org. United Methodist or atthe griefshare.org. Here are someChurch tips from booklet: Here are some tips from the booklet: r 3FBMJ[F UIBU UIF IPMJEBZT BSF HPJOH UP CF UPVHI +VTU BDDFQU UIBU r 3FBMJ[F UIBU UIF IPMJEBZT BSF HPJOH UP CF UPVHI +VTU BDDFQU UIBU r ,FFQ HPJOH GPSXBSE FBDI EBZ r ,FFQ HPJOH GPSXBSE FBDI EBZ r %PO U CF TVSQSJTFE CZ UIF JOUFOTJUZ PG ZPVS FNPUJPOT r %PO U CF TVSQSJTFE CZ UIF JOUFOTJUZ PG ZPVS FNPUJPOT r 'BDF UIF IPMJEBZT JO ZPVS XBZ BOE JO ZPVS UJNF r 'BDF UIF IPMJEBZT JO ZPVS XBZ BOE JO ZPVS UJNF r $IFSJTI UIF NFNPSJFT ŃŽFZ NBZ CSJOH PVU FNPUJPOT CVU BT UJNF HPFT PO UIFZ XJMM CF B TPVSDF PG KPZ r $IFSJTI UIF NFNPSJFT ŃŽFZ NBZ CSJOH PVU FNPUJPOT CVU BT UJNF HPFT PO UIFZ XJMM CF B TPVSDF PG KPZ One final note. Please let Dave’s battle with melanoma inspire you to take several actions. First, never leave the final note. PleaseSecond, let Dave’s with melanoma take several actions. First, never leave houseOne without sunscreen. getbattle an annual skin checkinspire from you yourtodermatologist or family physician. Last,the as house without sunscreen. Second, get an annual skin check from your dermatologist or family physician. Last, as QBSFOUT QMFBTF QSPUFDU ZPVS DIJMESFO XIJDI XF DBMMFE iCVUUFSJOH UIFN VQu BU NZ IPVTF +VTU POF CBE TVOCVSO JO DIJMEQBSFOUT QMFBTF QSPUFDU ZPVS DIJMESFO XIJDI XF DBMMFE iCVUUFSJOH UIFN VQu BU NZ IPVTF +VTU POF CBE TVOCVSO JO DIJMEhood or adolescence doubles your child’s chances of developing melanoma later in life. hoodUntil or adolescence Decemberdoubles your child’s chances of developing melanoma later in life. Until December,
KARIN CALLOWAY is a wife and mother of two. She’s also a journalist and recipe developer who writes the KARIN CALLOWAY is a wife and mother of two. She’s also a journalist and recipe developer who writes the Wednesday cooking column for The Augusta Chronicle. Watch Karin prepare her recipes on WJBF NewsChanWednesday cooking column for The Augusta Chronicle. Watch Karin prepare her recipes on WJBF NewsChannel 6 on Tuesdays during Mid-Day and Wednesdays during Good Morning Augusta. nel 6 on Tuesdays during Mid-Day and Wednesdays during Good Morning Augusta.
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mom m m Birthday Wishes for Dad
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ILLUSTRATION BY MICHAEL RUSHBROOK
by Jennie Montgomery
e have been bona fide empty nesters for about three months now. Zack moved to Kennesaw for his job and both girls are away at college. What a change! I have been pleasantly surprised by the ease with which we have adjusted to having all the kids out of the house—we aren’t staring at the walls, our lives are as busy and engaged at always—I just get to sleep in now! The most noticeable difference in not having the kids around happened on Scott’s birthday. I decorated the dining room table the night before his big day… two places set in a festive display at the end of our big dining room table. Two lonely little place settings! We were going to have this tiny birthday celebration at home, just us, but my Myrtle Beach cousin called and really threw a wrench into my plans. She and her husband were going to be passing through Augusta in a few hours and wanted to meet us for a quick dinner. We hadn’t seen each other in ages so I agreed to meet them at Olive Garden—thinking to myself that the birthday dinner for two could wait another day. We got to the restaurant first and were sitting in the bar waiting on a table. Scott was telling me about the folks he’d heard from on his birthday—“everybody but Maddy,” he shrugged. Our Maddy-in-the-Middle—the one with the huge heart who always does for others—didn’t call him or send a card. “Did you check all your Facebook birthday wishes?” I asked. “Twice,” he said. “Not even an HBD Dad.” At that EXACT moment I turned my head toward the doorway and saw our son Zack walking into the restaurant. Before I could stand up I saw Maddy right behind him, with Sky Baby bringing up the rear. These three kids were standing in Olive Garden in Augusta? And WE happened to be there too! Before we had finished hugging each other I was waving my arms and telling them, “Y’all aren’t going to believe this, but we are meeting Denise and Buster here for dinner! You’ll get to see them, too!” Maddy was grinning and shaking her head: “Silly Mommy! There’s no Denise tonight—she was the bait! We wanted to surprise Dad for his birthday so she made up that story to get you here!” Those kids came from Greensboro, N.C., Kennesaw and Young Harris, Ga., to give their Dad a PRICELESS birthday gift…their presence for presents. P.S. As for that empty nest thing? I left their beds unmade for week after they spent that night with us—seeing their rumpled bedsheets each morning made me feel like they were home. v JENNIE MONTGOMERY anchors the evening news at WJBF-TV. She and her husband, Scott, have three children.
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news notes
È@ Xd ^iXk\]lc ]fi n_Xk @ Xd Xe[ _Xm\% Dp k_Xebj^`m`e^ `j g\ig\klXc%É -Henry David Thoreau
TURKEY, STUFFING, PUMPKIN PIE and all of the trimmings call for a lot of preparation and cooking. But, when family, friends and, especially children, gather in the kitchen, it’s very easy to get distracted and forget about what’s on the stove. Safe Kids Greater Augusta advises you to keep your kids safe in the kitchen by: t Creating a three-foot “kid-free zone” around the stove. t Never holding a child while cooking, carrying or drinking hot foods or liquids. t Keeping hot foods and liquids away from the edge of counters and tables. t Teaching kids the dangers of cooking and reminding them that only when they are old enough are they allowed to cook, and then, only with help from an adult. For more kitchen safety tips for your family this holiday season, be sure to read the entire Safe Kids column online at augustafamily.com. 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 706-7217606, or visit grhealth.org/safekids.
The top four contestants from left: Raven Gropp, 1st Runner Up, Karson Pennington, Fair Queen, Taylor Head, 2nd Runner Up, and Hannah Price, 3rd Place and Miss Congeniality award winner.
Queen Crowned
SKARSON PENNINGTON, OF EVANS, WHO ATTENDS LAKESIDE HIGH SCHOOL, WAS CROWNED 2015 MISS COLUMBIA COUNTY FAIR AT A PAGEANT HELD IN OCTOBER. PENNINGTON PLANS TO ATTEND THE UNIVERSITY OF GEORGIA IN THE FALL.
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DBYE TO SAY GOOST-PERFECTION! PINTERE R ING YOU R-PROOF TODDLE S HOLIDAY S GIFT IDEA AT GRE 30
FRESH FACES IS YOUR CHILD READY FOR THEIR “close up?” If you think you’ve got a “cover kid,” submit their photo and information on our website and they may grace the cover of Augusta Family Magazine!
Girl
Clay, 5, 3, and Khloe n Kristian, n of Dameo are the childre of Evans. Clay and Leila
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GO
KNOW A MOM who deserves a “Go Girl!” (see page 46) in an upcoming issue of Augusta Family Magazine? Submit her on the contest page of our website.
! c i t s a App-T
Let’s Talk Turkey
Apps that will help with Thanksgiving dinner! THINKING ABOUT THANKSGIVING CONJURES UP THOUGHTS OF PERFECTLY ROASTED TURKEY, freshbaked pumpkin pies, cranberry sauce and a table full of other beautifully prepared foods. If you’re the host or hostess of this year’s Thanksgiving festivities…there’s an App for that! Butterball, the company which has manned the Turkey Hotline for more than 30 years, offers the Butterball Cookbook Plus—Turkey Recipes, Plus Cooking Tools for Everyday Dinners app. The app is free and is loaded with tons of recipes for every aspect of your meal. Beautiful photos show you how your finished product should look. The folks at Fine Living Magazine are also at your aid with their Thanksgiving Menu Maker app. The app offers up ideas for switching things up a little with 75 recipes and handy dinner planning tools including a shopping list generator. One of the best features of the app is the planner section, which breaks prep down to the day before Thanksgiving to hourly on the big day. With this app, you’ll have a four-course meal planned in minutes. The app costs $.99. BOTH APPS ARE AVAILABLE IN THE ITUNES STORE AT ITUNES.APPLE.COM.
February 2015 ANNUAL PARTY GUIDE ON THE TABLE GETTING DINNER ANXIETY UNDERSTANDING NG COMI IS IVEY CAMP
H el pe rs
2, are Rushbrook, 4 and Michael and Kirby ok and Carolyn Rushbro the sons of Michael by Branch Carter. of Augusta. Photo
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HOLIDAY FUN
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eating well with kim by Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE and Arielle Weekley, MS, Dietetic Intern
ILLUSTRATION BY MICHAEL RUSHBROOK
Thankful for...Dessert! Pumpkin Pie Bites Do you eat too much on Thanksgiving? And, do you still want some pumpkin pie even if you consumed too much at dinner? Well, this is the dessert recipe for you—light and delicious!
W
hen the crisp autumn air is filled with the smell of decadent home cooking, it must mean Thanksgiving. It’s a time to remember our blessings, gifts and loved ones all brought together with good food. And, once the table is set, there is nothing more gratifying than watching your family and friends enjoy the meal. But there is no denying cooking a hearty feast can be hard work and Thanksgiving dessert must, of course, follow. So why not make the sweet treats simple without compromising rich flavors (or waistlines)?
Tricks To Remember r 4UJDL UP KVTU B GFX JOHSFEJFOUT BOE EPO U PWFSXIFMN yourself. You’ve already made a whole Thanksgiving meal—so make dessert the fun part! r $IPPTF EFTTFSUT UIBU JODPSQPSBUF GSVJU UP BEE JO B fresh flavor kick. r 6TF SFEVDFE GBU DSFBN DIFFTF PS QMBJO (SFFL ZPgurt to add in that creamy goodness in place of full-fat varieties. r %FQFOEJOH PO UIF SFDJQF B QPSUJPO PG UIF PJM PS CVUUFS DBO CF SFQMBDFE XJUI (SFFL ZPHVSU PS VOflavored applesauce. This adds moisture and cuts down on the fat content. As an added bonus, (SFFL ZPHVSU XJMM BMTP BEE QSPUFJO XJUI GFXFS
DBMPSJFT (PPE SFDJQFT UP USZ UIJT UFDIOJRVF BSF JO holiday sweet breads, bar cookies and brownies. r -PPL GPS OFX SFDJQFT UIBU JODPSQPSBUF MJHIU JOHSFdients or new products, be creative and don’t be BGSBJE UP USZ TPNFUIJOH OFX -JHIU PQUJPOT PэFO become a new family favorite!
Nutrients To Be Thankful For
2 eggs Âź teaspoon salt 1 teaspoon cinnamon Âź teaspoon cloves Âź teaspoon nutmeg Âź teaspoon ginger 1 teaspoon vanilla 1 cup granulated or brown sugar 1 15-ounce can pumpkin 3 boxes ďŹ llo shells (45 total count) Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Combine the eggs and next 7 ingredients (cinnamon through sugar) in a bowl whisk well to combine. Fold in the pumpkin. Fill each ďŹ llo shell with 1 tablespoon of ďŹ lling and bake for 15-20 minutes or until done.
We often talk about how calorie laden the Thanksgiving meal is, but it is also nice to know that your ThanksHJWJOH EJOOFS DBO PĒFS BO BCVOEBODF PG OVUSJFOUT $PNmon Thanksgiving foods including turkey, cranberry sauce, cooked greens and even the typical pumpkin pie all pack some impressive nutrient numbers. Turkey and meats are packed with protein and iron—helping build your muscles and oxygenating ZPVS CMPPE $SBOCFSSJFT BSF B SJDI TPVSDF PG êCFS BOE WJUBNJO $ 'JCFS DBO JNQSPWF EJHFTUJWF IFBMUI BOE TJNVMUBOFPVTMZ SFEVDF CBE DIPMFTUFSPM XIJMF WJUBNJO $ CPPTUT JNNVOJUZ $POTVNJOH EBSL HSFFOT DBO QSPWJEF NBOZ NJDSPOVUSJFOUT JODMVEJOH WJUBNJO $ BOE WJUBNJO K. Vitamin K is essential for proper blood clotting. Pumpkin pie, of course, is a great source of vitamin A. Try our simple tips to lighten your recipes, add in extra nutrients and make your holiday feast nutritious from start to finish.
KIM BEAVERS is a Registered Dietitian and Diabetes Educator for University Health Care System. She lives in North Augusta with her husband and two children and she is the co-host of the culinary nutrition segment Eating Well with Kim, which airs at noon Monday, Wednesday and Friday on WRDW. To join the recipe club or view recipes, visit www.universityhealth.org/ewwk. You can also watch the segments at www.wrdw.com/ewwk.
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Yield: 22 1/2 servings (Serving size: 2 ďŹ llo bites) Nutrition Breakdown: Calories 80, Fat 1.5g (0g saturated), Cholesterol 15mg, Sodium 60mg, Carbohydrate 14g, Fiber 1g, Protein 1g. Percent Daily Value: 60% Vitamin A Kim’s Notes: You can replace the cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg and ginger with 2 teaspoons of pumpkin pie spice. If the bites become soggy after storage, pop them in the oven at 350 for a couple minutes to crisp up the shells again. v
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doctor dad by J. Ron Eaker, M.D.
BREASTFEED I NG ďšť ÂŽ
M
ost folks acknowledge that breastfeeding babies is a good thing. In fact, the most recent statistics from the Center for Disease Control indicate that almost 80 percent of infants that are discharged from the hospital after birth are breastfed. In Georgia almost 70 percent of babies start out life as breastfed babies. At six months that number drops to 40 percent and at a year only 20 percent are still on the breast. In comparison California has the highest rate in the country at 92 percent and Louisiana has the lowest rate at 57 percent. The advantages of breastfeeding are legion. The CDC summarizes the major advantages as follows:
looking at cognitive development of breastfed babies. In other words, some studies indicate that babies who are breastfed have fewer psychological, behavioral and learning problems as they grow older. Needless to say these studies are a bit controversial in their design and conclusions. However, the data is suggestive of at least some positive impact on mental functioning. For those who cynically break down everything to economics, there is actually information on breastfeeding and the impact on personal and soDJFUBM FDPOPNJFT #SFBTUGFE CBCJFT BSF MFTT MJLFMZ UP need excessive medical attention as they grow. In one study, a group of formula-fed infants had $68,000 in health care costs in a six-month period, while an r #SFBTUGFE DIJMESFO BSF NPSF SFTJTUBOU UP EJTFBTF BOE equal number of nursing babies had only $4,000 of similar expenses. infection early in life than formula-fed children. All this wonderful information is not presented r #SFBTUGFE DIJMESFO BSF MFTT MJLFMZ UP DPOUSBDU B UP TIBNF B NPUIFS XIP EPFTO U PS DBO U CSFBTUGFFE #Fnumber of diseases later in life, including juve- lieve me, there are plenty of “normal� kids and adults nile diabetes, multiple sclerosis, heart disease, and who were formula fed from the get go. If a choice is feasible, the data supports choosing breastfeeding. cancer before the age of 15. r .PUIFST XIP CSFBTUGFFE BSF MFTT MJLFMZ UP EFWFMPQ osteoporosis later in life, are able to lose weight gained during pregnancy more easily and have a lower risk of breast, uterine and ovarian cancer. One of the most interesting and recent findings is that children who breastfeed “are significantly less likely to become obese later in childhood. Formula feeding is linked to about a 20 to 30 percent greater likelihood that a child will become obese.� This has fostered a number of studies assessing potential longterm consequences of breastfeeding.
New Research Uncovers More Benefits Currently there are ongoing studies that are
More Support and Education Needed in Some Communities One controversy beginning to boil up in breastfeeding supporters surrounds a discrepancy in breastfeeding rates between African-American and Caucasian mothers. Nationally, breastfeeding rates among black infants are about 16 percent lower than for white infants according to a 2014 study from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. This study presents data that suggests hospitals that serve predominately black populations have fewer resources to promote breastfeeding, especially certified lactation counselors. Of interest, Georgia and Florida lead the South in the number of lactation consultants per
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1000 births. Other factors that influence breastfeeding in certain areas are formal community support groups and hospital and workplace educational programs, both of which tend to occur in lower numbers in predominantly African-American populations. The study’s authors concluded, “The reasons for this disparity are unclear. However, this observation could provide insight into the reasons for the persistent gap in breastfeeding rates between black and white babies in the United States.� The solution seems to be encouraging hospitals and birthing centers to employ resources to encourage and support breastfeeding. Administrators should reallocate funds from less successful programs into those, like breastfeeding, that have a proven track record. The dividends would be enormous both medically and economically. As I alluded to before, there are some women who can’t breastfeed. There are some medications absolutely necessary for mom’s health that preclude breastfeeding. Some women simply don’t produce enough milk to provide adequate nutrition, and some anatomical changes make breastfeeding impractical. If breastfeeding creates a significant amount of stress in mom, regardless of the reason, consideration should be given to bottle feeding. Studies do indicate that very stressed moms not only produce less milk, but it may be less nutritious. While breastfeeding should be the default choice, some women and babies actually are better off with the bottle. Like most health decisions, it is one that should be individualized to fit your and your baby’s needs. Talk with your obstetrician and pediatrician then decide what is best for you and your newborn. v Dr. Eaker is an Augusta Ob/GYN and author. He and his wife, Susan, have two daughters in college.
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smartMom’sguide by Cammie Jones
&
Quick Easy HOSTESS GIFTS I
t’s November and the invitations are beginning to roll in for the holidays. With your extensive shopping list starting to overwhelm you, remembering to give a gift to the host or hostess of the latest party or dinner is not top of mind. In fact, sometimes I think this is a thing of the past. But like most things of old, it’s time for this tradition to make a comeback. A hostess gift is just a nice, simple way to say, “thank you for including me.” I talked with Alison Smith, owner of Crickets Dry Goods in Evans, to get her advice about some out-of-the-box hostess gifts. “I like to give things that you wouldn’t normally buy for yourself but would love to receive,” says Smith. “I also like to give gifts that are locally or regionally made.” Smith says she really likes to support local artists and prefers gifts that have a story. Also, these gifts don’t have to break the bank. I’ve included some of her advice along with some of mine for what is hopefully a list of go-to hostess gifts.
1
HANDMADE SOAPS
Crickets Dry Goods carries a line from a South Carolina artist who make soaps out of beer and wine. Some of these soaps are made from locally brewed beers such as Sweetwater 420, and they make great gifts for men. Women seem to prefer the wine soaps. This is a great treat for a casual party such as a cookout. Any decorative or sweet smelling soaps are a nice gift. Usually this is something that someone won’t buy for themselves, so it makes a good and useful hostess gift. A
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large bar or even a trio of smaller soaps will work for any guest bathroom.
2
SALSAS & JAMS
3
HONEY PRODUCTS
4
PICTURE FRAMES
It’s always a nice touch when you give something that is homemade. However, if you don’t have the time or the talent to make your own salsa or jellies, you can find locally made varieties in town. One of Crickets top sellers is a peach salsa that is made by a local company. You can get two jars—one can be used as an appetizer to share at the party and the other as a “leave behind” that the host can enjoy later. Also, if you go out-of-state to visit friends or family, a Georgiathemed gift is always a great way to say thank you.
Not only is honey natural and good for you, it can also make a cute gift. From honey lotion to soap to lip balm, Crickets carries a line out of North Georgia that includes all of these. Also, just a nice, wrapped jar of honey with some fancy crackers and cheese make a nice appetizer at a party.
Who doesn’t need a good, updated picture frame? Today, there are so many themed frames you can find in many specialty stores. “We have two ladies out of Greensboro, N.C., who hand paint pictures frames,” says Smith. This makes a great gift for someone with a new home or a vacation home. Slip a photo of their new home or their family in front of their new home and you have something that is more lasting to give them.
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smartMom’ sguide smart ssguide smartMom’ Mom’ guide
55
CANDLES CANDLES Candles Candles Candles are are the the typical typical hostess hostess gift gift but but who who doesn’t doesn’t love love aa good-smelling good-smelling
6 6
LINENS LINENS Linens You You can’t can’t have have too too many many tea tea towels towels or or guest guest towels, towels, if if you you ask ask me. me. And, And,
77
HOMEMADE HOMEMADE TREATS TREATS Homemade Treats You can never go You can never go wrong wrong with with aa homemade homemade bread, bread, cookies cookies or or some some othoth-
8 8
WINE WINE Wine A A nice nice bottle bottle of of wine wine is is another another great great go-to go-to hostess hostess gift. gift. Try Try to to pick pick
9 9
COCKTAIL COCKTAIL NAPKINS NAPKINS Napkins IICocktail have laughed have laughed out out loud loud at at many many stores stores that that carry carry funny funny cocktail cocktail napnap-
Candles are theare typical hostess gift but who doesn’t love a good-smelling candle? candle? There There are so so many many different different kinds kinds to to choose choose from—some from—some more more candle? There are so many different kinds to choose from—some more expensive expensive than than others—but others—but even even aa smaller smaller candle candle the the can can be be placed placed in in aa bathbathexpensive than others—but even a smaller candle the can be placed in a bathroom room or or at at the the bar, bar, making making aa great great gift. gift. Choose Choose aa scent scent that that is is holiday holiday themed themed or or room or at the bar, making a great gift. Choose a scent that is holiday themed or aa more more year-round year-round scent scent that that they they can can burn burn anytime anytime during during the the year. year. a more year-round scent that they can burn anytime during the year.
You can’t have too many tea towels or carries guest towels, at if you ask me. And, they they don’t don’t all all have have to to be be fancy. fancy. Smith Smith carries aa line line at Crickets Crickets of of flour flour they don’t all have to be fancy. Smith carries a line at Crickets of flour sack sack hand hand towels towels that that are are printed printed in in Hilton Hilton Head. Head. “These “These make make great great gifts gifts for for sack hand who towels that are printed in Hilton Head. “These make great gifts for the the friend friend who enjoys enjoys cooking, cooking,”” says says Smith. Smith. the friend who enjoys towel cooking,” have says Smith. Pick Pick out out aa plain plain white white towel and and have it it monogrammed monogrammed if if you you want want to to go go the the Pick out a plain white towel and have it monogrammed if you want to go the fancier fancier route. route. These These never never go go out out of of style style and and can can be be used used in in aa guest guest bathbathfancier route. Thesebathroom never go outthe of style and can be used in a guest bathroom, room, or or really really any any bathroom in in the house. house. Remember Remember your your friend’s friend’s favorite favorite room, oryou really any bathroom in the house. Remember your friend’s favorite color color so so you can can choose choose towels towels that that will will match match the the home’s home’s decor. decor. color so you can choose towels that will match the home’s decor.
You canthat never gohostess wrong withput a homemade bread, cookiesthe or some other er treat treat that the the hostess can can put up up for for later. later. If If you you have have the time time and and er treat that the hostess can put up for later. If you have the time you and talent, why not? A delicious bread wrapped with ribbons and a note from talent, why not? A delicious bread wrapped with ribbons and a note from you talent, why not? A delicious bread wrapped with ribbons and a note from you is is aa great great way way to to say say thanks. thanks. is a great way to say thanks.
A nice bottle of wine is another great go-to hostess gift. Try to pick one one that that has has aa name name or or label label that that reminds reminds you you of of your your friend friend or or family family one that has a name or label that reminds you of your friend or family member. Wrap it and hand deliver. I don’t know of anyone who wouldn’t member. Wrap it and hand deliver. I don’t know of anyone who wouldn’t like like member. Wrap it and hand deliver. I don’t know of anyone who wouldn’t like to to get get this this if if they they enjoy enjoy drinking drinking wine. wine. to get this if they enjoy drinking wine.
I have laughed out loud at many stores that carrydefinitely funny cocktailsome napkins. kins. Again, Again, everyone everyone needs needs them, them, and and you you can can definitely find find some kins. Again, everyone needs them, and you can definitely find some with with aa personal personal joke joke or or saying saying that that may may remind remind you you of of the the party party giver. giver. Wrap Wrap with a personal joke or saying that may remind you of the party giver.perfect Wrap them them up up nicely nicely and and add add aa wine wine stopper stopper or or spreader spreader and and you you have have the the perfect them up nicely and add a wine stopper or spreader and you have the perfect small small token token to to show show your your appreciation. appreciation. small token to show your appreciation.
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V VASE ASE OR OR FLOWERPOT FLOWERPOT Vase or Flowerpot A A small small vase vase or or flower flower pot pot with with or or without without aa plant plant or or flowers flowers is is
A small vase or flower pot use with or without a plant or flowers is also also aa great great gift gift the the host host can can use that that night night or or save save for for aa later later time. time. alsoflowers a great giftplant the host can use that nightwill or savesomething for a later time. Even Even when when the the flowers or or plant dies, dies, the the vase vase or or pot pot will be be something they they Even when the flowers or plant dies, the vase or pot will be something they can continue to use. can continue to use. can continue to use. Going Going to to party party empty empty handed handed is is not not aa huge huge social social faux faux pas pas in in my my book book but but Going to party empty handed is not a huge social faux pas in my book but with with just just aa little little preplanning preplanning and and thought, thought, you you can can show show your your appreciation appreciation to to withhost justora little preplanning andact thought, youIcan show your appreciation to the hostess with a simple of giving. know I am going to be on the the host or hostess with a simple act of giving. I know I am going to be on the the host or hostess with a simple act ofcoming giving. I knowvI am going to be on the lookout lookout for for some some silly silly napkins napkins in in the the coming weeks! weeks! v lookout for some silly napkins in the coming weeks! v
Cammie Cammie Jones Jones is is an an Augusta Augusta freelance freelance writer writer and and mother mother of of three. three. Cammie Jones is an Augusta freelance writer and mother of three.
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health home by Mary Ashton Mills
Toddler-Proofing
YOUR
HOLIDAYS
B
efore the last plate of leftover turkey is polished off, Americans will begin trimming their trees, decking the halls and wrapping gifts. These holiday additions can lead to safety hazards for small children. Toddlers’ innocent curiosity can put them in danger of poisoning or injury. By adhering to a few safety precautions, we can look forward to a safe and happy holiday season.
Toddler-Proofing Your Decorations When decorating the house this year, Safe Kids Greater Augusta Lead Instructor Carla Allen says we should use caution. “For the holidays specifically, we recommend you check your lights for broken bulbs and frayed wires along with checking your electrical outlets. You also want to ensure your outlets are not overloaded with power strips causing a greater fire hazard,” says Allen. She also recommends homeowners keep a fire extinguisher in their homes in case of an accidental fire. Garlands, wreaths and tablescapes may contain natural foliage that can be poisonous. Often these plants may look beautiful, but can be dangerous to children and pets who are unaware of such dangers. “Holly berries, mistletoe berries and Jerusalem cherry are all poisonous so keep these out of reach if using them to decorate your home for the holidays,” says Allen.
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Fireplaces tend to get more use during the holidays with the cold weather and with Santa’s impending descent down the chimney. Be sure to have a tight-fitting fireplace screen and have your fireplace checked by a chimney sweep each year before using it. “You also want to be mindful if using color crystals in your fireplace or artificial snow as these may be toxic in confined spaces,” notes Allen. Although candlelight does provide a certain ambience, and for some it is part of a religious ceremony, Safe Kids recommends keeping burning candles away from toddlers reach. This includes matches and lighters as well. After selecting your Christmas tree, it can be secured to the wall to prevent it from tipping over and harming someone. This is easily done with a small hook and rope that can be removed after the holidays. Keep breakable ornaments and sharp hooks toward the top of the tree out of reach of toddlers. Garlands and some ornaments on the tree may resemble candy or fruit to a small child so be sure to choose your decor wisely. However, don’t let the list of precautions stop you from including your toddler in the decorating process.
Including Your Children, Creating Family Traditions The holidays are an exciting time for children and they should be part of the many traditions in
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health home your home each year. Allen suggests we allow toddlers to place large, non-breakable items on the tree. She also says that positioning decorative window clings on the windows is a safe way for them to be part of the decorating process. Kathi Trotter, Augusta mother of three children ages 7, 5 and 2, has many traditions with her children during the holidays and loves having them involved in every aspect of the decorating. “I have always collected Nativities and since having children I have started collecting kid friendly ones. I think it is one of the most important parts of teaching my children the true meaning of Christmas,” says Trotter. The Trotter family turns on Christmas music and invites everyone in the family to help decorate the tree. “The children know that they get to help decorate the bottom of the tree with all of the special ornaments they have made at school. We also have a tradition of going to buy a new ornament every year,” says Trotter. “The bottom of my tree isn’t the
prettiest of sights, but I know that it was decorated with love and I will miss it one day,” she says. She also loves the tradition her mother started by giving each grandchild a nutcracker or caroler collectible. Trotter says the children unpack the boxes each year with excitement.
Unwrapping New Toys When the time comes for your child to open a gift, be mindful that the ribbon and gift wrap could become a potential safety risk. Toddlers could be strangled or suffocated by ribbon or wrapping paper. Keep in mind that new toys can present a danger to your child if not properly inspected. Santa’s workshop makes amazing toys, but there are times when a small part could come loose, presenting a choking hazard. Be sure to inspect all toys before passing them on to a small child. According to Safe Kids Worldwide, approximately 192,000 children were seen in emergency
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departments with toy-related injuries in 2012 alone. “This is especially important for toddlers, where choking on small parts and button batteries pose the greatest risks,” says Allen. She notes a sure-fire way to keep your toddlers safe is to use a toilet paper roll. If a toy can fit through a cardboard toilet paper roll, it is a choking hazard for the child. To keep your family extra safe over the holidays you can download the Safe Kids Holiday Safety Checklist at http://www.safekids.org/tip/holidaysafety-tips-pdf . You can also register for one of their monthly Safe Kids Home Safety courses anytime of the year to ensure your home is at it’s safest. Safe Kids Greater Augusta can be reached by calling 706-7217606 or emailing them at safekids@gru.edu.v Mary Ashton Mills lives in Augusta with her husband and two children. Her work has appeared in Charleston Magazine, The Post and Courier and Augusta Family Magazine.
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funfood
Pumpkin Pie Squares with Cinnamon Sugar Yogurt Topping Total time: 1 hour, 20 minutes Servings: 16 Crust: 1 cup graham cracker crumbs ½ cup old-fashioned oats ¼ cup brown sugar ¼ cup butter, melted 2 tablespoons low-fat milk cooking spray
F
ood. Friends. Family. Football. Thanksgiving would be incomplete without any of them, but the most important is the holiday feast your family and friends have gathered to enjoy while the game plays in the background. Serving up a full holiday spread—from turkey to dessert—that is sure to bring everyone back for years to come is easy with these tips for every stage of the meal.
Turkey Day Tips The sight of a beautifully cooked, golden brown bird being brought to the table is one of the most memorable moments of any Thanksgiving gathering. Follow these tips to prepare the perfect centerpiece for your holiday meal: Thawing Your Turkey • For every 5 pounds in weight, thaw in original wrapper for 24 hours in the refrigerator. Thaw faster by covering with cold water in the sink and soaking approximately 30 minutes per pound. • Refrigerate as soon as thawed or cook immediately. For best quality, do not refreeze uncooked turkey. Roasting the Bird • Baste with extra virgin olive oil. • Place breast-side-up on rack in shallow roasting pan. Cook in 325-degree oven. • For an unstuffed turkey, place a stalk or two of celery, seasonings, a cut-up onion and a handful of parsley in the cavity to keep it moist. • Lay “tent” of foil loosely over turkey to prevent over-browning. • Turkey is done when meat thermometer is 180 degrees or when the red stem on the pop-up thermometer rises. • For easier carving, let turkey stand at room temperature for at least 20 minutes. More Ways to Make the Perfect Centerpiece • Grilled: Grill 15-18 minutes per pound. Air in grill must be between 225-300 degrees.
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• Deep Fat Fried: Cook 3-5 minutes per pound in 350-degree oil. • Smoked: Cook 20-30 minutes per pound. Air in smoker must be between 225-300 degrees. • Microwaved: Cook 9-10 minutes per pound on medium power. Rotate during cooking.
Have Your Sides and Eat Them Too While the turkey takes center stage on Thanksgiving, surrounding the centerpiece with a variety of delicious side dishes can take your turkey day to the next level. Here are a few popular sides to round out your table: • Potatoes: While mashed potatoes and gravy are always a holiday hit, other serving options, such as roasted potatoes, scalloped potatoes or sweet potatoes, can add variety to a favorite traditional dish. • Fruits and vegetables: From green bean casserole and cranberry sauce to roasted vegetables, corn pudding, candied yams and butternut squash, no table is full without a variety of fruits and veggies to choose from. • Noodles: Outside of a traditional potato side, many turkey day tables offer pasta-based sides, such as homemade turkey noodles, macaroni and cheese or pasta salad. • Bread: No Thanksgiving meal can be complete without cornbread, rolls or biscuits—which can also be used to make miniature turkey sandwiches after the meal is over—and a holiday classic, stuffing.
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Filling: 2 cups canned pumpkin 2 eggs ¾ cup sugar ¾ cup low-fat vanilla yogurt ½ cup low-fat milk 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice ¼ teaspoon salt ½ cup pecans, chopped Topping: 2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 cup plain nonfat yogurt Heat oven to 350 degrees. In large bowl, mix together graham cracker crumbs, oats, brown sugar, butter and milk. Press into thin layer in a 9-by-13-inch pan greased with cooking spray. Bake for 10 minutes. While crust is baking, in another bowl, beat together pumpkin through salt. Pour over crust and bake for 40 minutes or until set. Sprinkle pecans over filling and bake another 10-15 minutes or until center is set. Cool slightly in pan. Mix together sugar and cinnamon. Mix in yogurt. Top each square with 1 tablespoon yogurt topping. v
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p a r c S
THE PINTEREST PERFECT CHRISTMAS ®
Dear Pinterest® Perfect Mom, Your name conjures images of the quintessential supermom, the apex of perfection, the DIY queen, yet to many you evoke insane amounts of jealousy. Still, others may
not take you seriously and simply roll their eyes when thinking of you and your perfect holiday posts.
Today’s generation has the bar set alarmingly high due to the pressures of perfection
from the multitude of inspirational social media posts. Now, holidays at my house are filled with anxiety because I’m always aspiring to be some version of you, “the perfect Pinterest mom”.
Instead of relaxing at night with my family, I’m making sure the house is licked clean, the reindeer food is ready, the Christmas cards are addressed by the 5th of December
and our Elf on the Shelf is finding joy in a bubble bath bowl of marshmallows, even if it means less quality time with the ones I love. For what?
Is someone coming for a photo shoot tomorrow? I think not. Will my perfectly
lit Christmas tree grace the next holiday issue of Better Homes and Gardens? I think not. Will I be interviewed for a story on how to make the best icing for those Pinterest-inspired painted Christmas cookies? I know not!
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HERE’S A LIST OF SIX WAYS TO CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS BY FINDING INSPIRATION FROM THEIR TRUE MEANING INSTEAD OF FROM A PINTEREST PAGE.
My version of homemade Christmas cookies will be
partially browned on the
bottom, my icing will be runny and there will inadvertently be enough flour and sugar on the counter to
make another entire batch. Oh friend, at your house
things may be perfect, but around here someone may
be crying because they didn’t get an equal amount
of sprinkles on their cookie or there may not be adequate amounts of batter to
1. Do Unto Others There are plenty of less-fortunate people who may be lonely and in need during the holidays. Trips to a local soup kitchen, visiting shut-ins at a nursing home, adopting a family on a nearby Angel Tree and ringing the Salvation Army bell for a few hours are all gratifying ways to show compassion for others during the holidays.
lick on each beater.
We will take away memo-
ries of making those cookthe pressures of a perfect final product. Realistically
speaking, no child under the age of 12 has ever made
that have been posted on Pinterest.
This Christmas, I will leave
behind the days where I waste my time aiming for perfec-
The holidays can be extremely stressful on our wallets. Maxed out credit cards and worried breadwinners should not be the norm. According to Dr. Linda B. Hardy, child and adolescent psychiatrist, “The trap of consumerism is that one is rewarded with immediate happiness that quickly dissipates, leading to craving for the next thing. Unfortunately, some of us have allowed the cult of consumerism to convince us that overspending and frantic shopping are the reason for the holidays!” Instead, set a budget and stick to it.
ies with each other, without
any of those perfect cookies
3. Keep Gift Giving Inexpensive and Meaningful
2. Enjoy Family Time
For larger families, suggest drawing names. If you feel that you are still purchasing excess gifts, try giving only to the children in your family.
The holidays are about family and extended family. Look at the calendar in advance. Schedule some down time for your family and talk about what they might like to do. Take in a Christmas concert or a festival of lessons and carols. Attend a live nativity, complete with animals. Decide on a few holiday movies to watch, make some hot chocolate and plan for family movie night.
Stressing over the “perfect” gift? Consider a donation to a local charity in their honor. Dr. Hardy suggests we consider financial giving to charitable organizations or volunteering our time. Both are important and meaningful ways to increase our own feelings of gratitude and compassion.
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tion. I vow not to envision the end result and start enjoying the process, my friend.
This year things will be a little
different around my house.
4. Keep Decorations Simple. I admit it. This one is more challenging for me. I love to deck the halls, but a scaledback version is OK. Instead of worrying over an extra inflatable snowman or matching ribbon for the wreaths, talk to children about the significance of lighting the candles on the Menorah or make an Advent Wreath. Dr. Hardy says it best, “Perfection is an unreachable goal—let go of it! Perhaps it is best to be kind to the self and set realistic goals based on one’s own priorities and beliefs.”
Maybe you’d like to try it too?
We will enjoy time together—to watch those Christmas 6. Avoid Social Media Social Media can be a quick source of news and is often used in a helpful way, but it can also drain our time. By limiting our involvement in social media this season we can focus on finding joy in our own homes instead of jealousy over what someone else may have or be doing. According to Dr. Hardy, if someone has a tendency to compare themselves to others, social media can become a problem. “Our homes are not “Pinterest ready.” our “friends” on Facebook or Instagram seem more attractive, more interesting, more fun and more successful than we are,” says Hardy.
It is difficult to say no. We all love a good party, reindeer punch bowl and all. If we are constantly going out to celebrate, chances are we will be frazzled by the time Christmas Eve rolls around.
Hardy suggests a remedy for comparing ourselves to others. “I think the best way to counter this very human condition is to be truly grateful for what one has, to be (and to voice) genuine happiness at other’s good fortune and to recognize that everyone has their own insecurities and doubts—no matter how they present themselves externally.”
My rule of thumb is choosing one night per weekend to go out and stay home with family on the other night. When considering weeknight celebrations, it is ok to choose one and regret to the others.
Let’s face it, someone will always have more gifts under the tree, prettier profile pictures and more “likes.” For me, this holiday will be less prepping, less posting and more perfect! Won’t you join me?
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5. Limit Social Activity
movies, read stories, make crafts with glitter that leaves a trail up and down the stairs
and into the beds. We may
choose to spend the day vol-
unteering at a soup kitchen or buying something for those in need instead of picking out matching outfits for our pic-
tures with Santa so that we can post them on Instagram.
Yes, let’s get back to the real meaning of the holidays. Xoxo, Your friend, “the not-so-perfect mom”
Mary Ashton Mills lives in Augusta with her husband and two children. Her work has appeared in Charleston Magazine, The Post and Courier and Augusta Family Magazine.
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inspirationstation by Dustin Turner
John’s World Teen With Rare Disease Doesn’t Give Up
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so he was not diagnosed with Krabbe. At about 1 year, though, you could really see the symptoms developing, Michele says, and at 15 months he was diagnosed. By then, it was too late for a transplant. As one would expect, John’s life is not easy. In addition to his physical state of being, he goes through several therapies every week. He sees a home-bound teacher a few times a week, but “he loves to fingerpaint and be read to,� Michele says. John gets treatment from a speech therapist (“He’ll never talk,� Michele says, “but the therapist works his tongue, jaw and muscles in that area.�). For his body and muscles, he gets swim therapy, physical therapy and occupational therapy, which work his hands and shoulders. All the therapy doesn’t upset John in the least, his mother says. “He absolutely loves the interaction with people. He is just a happy kid.� John stays active, as well. He plays adaptive baseball at the Family Y and has been in the Tri My Best Triathalon for the past three years. His sister, Jessica, 22, is study-
ing to be a nurse. Michele says that likely comes from seeing what her brother has gone through all his life.
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ichele D’Amico and her husband, Michael, a lieutenant for the Richmond County Sheriff ’s Office, live in “John’s world�—and they are happy to do so. John is their 15-year-old son who lives with Krabbe (crab-A) disease. They’ve been told that at 15, he is one of the oldest living children in the world with the condition. The illness claims the lives of most children by 2 years, though some live to be 4 to 8. “John is wheelchair-bound. He has a feeding tube and a suction tube and is completely dependent on us,� Michele says. “But he has the biggest, brightest eyes you’ve ever seen and the best smile, and that just makes everything okay, ya know?� If he had been diagnosed at birth, his mother says, he could have had a stem-cell transplant to improve his chances. Instead, he didn’t start showing symptoms until he was about 9 months old. Symptoms included a “G.I. Joe� type of crawling and not moving in his bed at night. But he was still eating and laughing,
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SFDFJWF êOBODJBM BTTJTUBODF XJUI USBWFM FYQFOTFT ѮF % "NJDPT IBWF CFFO UP TVDI TZNQPTJVNT JO /FX :PSL i8F BSF TVSSPVOEFE CZ MPWF BOE TVQQPSU ѮFZ )VOUFS T )PQF BSF UIFSF GPS FWFSZCPEZ u .JDIFMF TBZT i"MM UIF LJET BSF USFBUFE OPSNBMMZ UIFSF *G ZPV IFBS B TVDUJPO UVCF TUBSU VQ QFPQMF EPO U UVSO BOE TUBSF 8F BMM LOPX XIBU JU JT *U T KVTU OPSNBM BOE FWFSZUIJOH TFFNT PLBZ u *OEFFE ,SBCCF T NBLFT +PIO GVMMZ EFQFOEFOU PO IJT GBNJMZ BOE UIFSBQJTUT CVU UIBU EPFTO U HFU UIF % "NJDPT EPXO i+PIO JT B XPOEFSGVM IBQQZ DIJME * DPVME KVTU HP PO BOE PO BCPVU IPX HSFBU IF IJT )F TNJMFT BOE JU KVTU MJHIUT VQ UIF SPPN u .JDIFMF TBZT i"OE JG UIJT JT UIF POMZ XBZ * HFU UP NFFU IJN JO UIJT MJGF UIFO * BN USVMZ CMFTTFE ѮF EJTFBTF UPPL FWFSZUIJOH BXBZ GSPN IJN CVU IF EPFTO U HJWF VQ TP XF EPO U HJWF VQ u v Dustin Turner is Associate Travel Editor for wheretraveler.com. His wife, Jamie Johnson Turner, has put up with him for 18 years now, and they are the proud parents of 8-year-old Abigail. The Turners stay busy with community theater and wine-making.
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calendar November 2015
Treasure Trove Discover endless riches when Disney On Ice Presents Treasure Trove comes to the James Brown Arena November 5-8. Rapunzel and Flynn enter the worlds of your favorite Disney princesses: Ariel, Belle, Cinderella, Jasmine, Aurora, Tiana, Mulan and, of course, the one who started it all, Snow White. Other fantasy voyages include setting sail with Peter Pan, Tinker Bell and Captain Hook and trekking the wilds of Africa with Simba, Nala, Pumbaa and Timon. And, don’t be late to a very important date with Alice & the Mad Hatter. November 5 & 6 at 7 p.m., November 7 at 2 and 6 p.m. and November 8 at 2 p.m. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com
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HOLIDAY EVENTS November 7. St. John’s Apple Fest. It’s baking season and there’s no better place to prepare for your apple-inspired creations than the St. John’s Apple Fest. Fresh apples and apple desserts will be for sale at this annual harvest celebration that also features games for the kids, trash and treasure booths, and a silent auction. 8 a.m.-2 p.m. St. John’s United Methodist Church. Downtown Aiken. 803-648-6891. November 14. Santa Paws. Come out with your four-legged friends and have their photo made with Santa. 10 a.m.-3 p.m. at Pendleton King Park, 1600 Troupe Street. Call 706-796-5025. November 15. Senn Designs Jewelry Trunk Show. Susan Senn-Davis and Amy Hammarlund of Senn Designs will have new handmade pieces to preview. It’s the perfect time to start, or finish, your Christmas shopping. 1-4 p.m. Morris Museum of Art. 706-7247501. November 12. Gift Shop Holiday Open House. Holiday shopping destination where you will find that unique gift for everyone on your list. A holiday bake sale of items created by Sacred Heart Guild Members. Free gift wrapping. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4700. November 19-29. Holiday Gingerbread Village. Local bakers have been invited to create amazing gingerbread reproductions of historic structures in the CSRA. Augusta Museum of History rotunda. 706722-8454. November 20. Cirque Dreams Holidaze. Broadway director Neil Goldberg re-imagines the holiday season with over 300 costumes, 20 acts and 30 performers from 12 countries showcasing a variety of imaginative, heart-pounding and gravity-defying feats. Experience gingerbread men flipping midair, and toy soldiers marching on thin wires with snowmen, icemen and penguins. The show celebrates the most wonderful time of the year with singers, choreography and exciting production numbers. 8 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. November 20-December 30. Lights of the South. More than five million lights twinkle throughout a
100-acre forest. Hay rides, marshmallow roasting, Christmas tree maze, food, sweets, and much more. Open seven days a week. 6-10 p.m. www.lightsofthesouth.com. November 21-22. The Augusta Ballet Holiday House. An annual fundraising event featuring tours of Summerville homes decorated for the season. Preview party, November 21. 706-260-5555. November 22 & 29. Santa and Me Photos. No session fees or appointments necessary. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at the Old Government House, 432 Telfair St., downtown Augusta. 706-821-1812. November 26. One Table. A unique event made possible by local churches, sponsors and dedicated volunteers, One Table is a full, traditional Thanksgiving feast served—at no charge—in downtown Aiken’s The Alley. Gather with old friends and meet new ones around a banquet of turkey (baked, grilled, smoked and fried), dressing, sweet potatoes, green beans, rice and gravy, cranberry sauce and more. Live music provided by local churches. November 27-29. The Nutcracker. Dance Augusta, the official company of Augusta Ballet School, presents your favorite holiday tradition. 7 p.m. at the Imperial Theater, 749 Broad St. 706-722-8341. November 28. Christmas in the Backcountry. Learn how colonists and their slaves observed Christmas in the backcountry. Famed storyteller Kitty WilsonEvans shares her wisdom and Santa Claus stops by with candy canes and other holiday surprises. Free. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. North Augusta Living History Park. 803-279-7560 or www.colonialtimes.us.
SPECIAL EVENTS November 1. Friends of the Columbia County Libraries Book Sale. Books will be on display in the lobby of the Evans branch from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Fiction and non-fiction works will be for wale. November 5-15. Columbia County Fair. Carnival rides, food vendors, live musical entertainment, exhibits, games, petting zoo, wild West show and demolition derby. Fairgrounds are located at 5462 Columbia Rd. in Grovetown. Visit www.columbiacountyfair.net for full schedule of events.
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November 5. Oysters on Telfair. This fundraiser event for the Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art will be held in the gardens of historic Ware’s Folly. Guests will enjoy a delectable “down-on-the-bayou feast” of succulent oysters and Cajun-inspired delicacies. Combined with toe-tappin’ music and a silent art auction of works from regional artists, Oysters on Telfair has quickly become one of Augusta’s favorite fundraisers. 706-722-5495. November 5. Hay Bales and Cocktails. Benefits the Food Forever Fund, Golden Harvest Food Bank’s permanent endowment. Featuring a wine and craft beer tasting, Tim Cadiere and the Washboard Band, BBQ from Shane’s Rib Shack, mechanical bull riding, line dancing and auction items. 6-9 p.m. Julian Smith Casino. 706-736-1199. November 5-8. Disney on Ice Presents Treasure Trove. Disney on Ice sets the gold standard with a skating spectacular filled with classic Disney moments. Get tangled up in Disney’s 50th animated feature with Rapunzel and Flynn and enter the worlds of your favorite Disney princesses. Set sail with Peter Pan, the always sassy Tinker Bell and the cantankerous Captain Hook and his pirate pals. Nov. 5-6, 7 p.m. Nov. 7, 2 p.m. and 6 p.m. Nov. 8, 2 p.m. James Brown Arena. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com. November 7. Georgia Literary Festival. Over 50 authors will appear including celebrity chef Nathalie Dupree, New York Times bestselling authors Joshilyn Jackson, Karen White, Patti Callahan Henry and many others. International bestseller Terry Kay will be the keynote speaker. The festival is free and open to the public. Local writers and authors will also participate in the festival. There are activities for children including a ventriloquist, live music, reptile wranglers and readings from children's authors. For a full list of events go to www.georgiacenterforthebook.org/Georgia-Literary-Festival. 9 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. at Augusta University's Summerville campus at the Jaguar Student Activity Center. November 7. Red, White and Blue Veterans Celebration. Evans Towne Center Park. 706-650-5005. November 7. Art After Dark. The Artists’ Guild of Columbia County hosts its annual gala featuring an
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calendar evening of art, food and entertainment. 7 p.m. Savannah Rapids Pavilion. www.artistguildcc.org.
and Hallie Steinfield. 8 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www. augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
November 7. An Evening on the Porch with Kids Restart. Live music by Tim Kelleher from Legend Entertainment, silent auction, raffle and more. Funds raised to help Kids Restart, a non-profit organization which helps children in foster care and at risk of entering foster care and their families. 7 p.m. at Daniel Field Airport, 1775 Highland Ave., Augusta. 706-828-0180.
November 26. Blessing of the Hounds. The traditional ceremony held in Hitchcock Woods gathers people from across the community as a priest blesses the hounds, horses and riders before a drag hunt. 11 a.m. Memorial Gate in Hitchcock Woods. There is no parking at the South Boundary entrance, but attendees can park downtown. No motorized vehicles or dogs are permitted in the woods for this event. www.hitchcockwoods.org or 803-642-0528.
November 12. Taste of the Harvest. Enjoy culinary samplings from the best local restaurants, caterers and specialty food shops. Experience live music and get an inside look at Golden Harvest’s work to feed the hungry. 6-8 p.m. Golden Harvest Aiken Warehouse. 81 Capital Dr. Aiken. 803-642-2912. November 13. A Chef’s Extravaganza. Join Helping Hands for their 12th anniversary celebration, themed this year Caribbean Fusion: A Taste of the Islands. This black tie dinner offers a six to eight course menu, a selection of fine wines, silent auction and live entertainment. The event will benefit Helping Hands, which aims to enrich the quality of life and well-being of children, youth and families in need in Aiken County. Cocktails, 6:30 p.m. Dinner, 7 p.m. Woodside Plantation Country Club. For tickets, 803-648-3456 November 14. World Series of Chili Cook-Off. The Augusta GreenJackets, in conjunction with Camp Lakeside, is hosting a chili cook off. Teams can sign up as individuals or businesses. Chili must be cooked on site without the use of electricity. In addition to the Chili Cook-Off, there will be live music, a Cornhole tournament, college football viewing station and children’s activities. Benefits Camp Lakeside. Noon-5 p.m. at Lake Olmstead Stadium. csmith@greenjacketsbaseball.com. November 20-21. Augusta Coin Show. Free admission. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Columbia County Exhibition Center. November 21. Mike Epps: The Real Deal Tour. Mike Epps has been generating an extraordinary amount of buzz for being not only one of the funniest comic actors in town, but also for his burgeoning dramatic talent. Epps is currently in production for the second season of his starring role in the Starz series “Survivor’s Remorse.” He recently completed the Universal feature “Term Life” starring opposite Vince Vaughan
Rock N’ Shop Concert Series 3-5 p.m. Augusta Mall Third Sundays in November Family-friendly, local musical talent, food from Augusta Mall’s exclusive restaurants Free and open to the public.
Exhibition. Lucy Craft Laney Museum of Black History. 706-724-3576
MUSEUM AND SCIENCE EVENTS
November 1-January 10. Independent Spirits: Women Artists of South Carolina. A selection of ap-
November 4. Brown Bag History Lecture: Soldiering Over the Past 100 Years. With Steve Rauch, Fort Gordon military historian. Bring a lunch. Beverages provided. Refreshments served at 11:30 a.m. Lecture, 12:301 p.m. Augusta Museum of History. 706-722-8454
proximately 30 works of art by women from across the state. South Carolina has produced and nourished many such independent spirits, women who work against the social grain to pursue modern and experimental means of artistic expression. Whether they work in painting, sculpture, assemblage, ceramics or installation, these women represent the undeniable role that women play in shaping the future of arts in South Carolina. Columbia Museum of Art. Columbia, S.C. www.columbiamuseum.org.
November 6-7. Augusta and the Civil War Symposium. Several Augusta cultural organizations present a two-day symposium focusing on Augusta’s role in the Civil War. Historian, educator and author Dr. Bobby Donaldson presents “Everything Is Entirely Reversed: African Americans, the Civil War and the Meaning of Freedom” on Nov. 6 at Tabernacle Baptist Church. The program continues Nov. 7 at Springfield Baptist Church with lectures and a performance by Creative Impressions. Advance registration required by calling 706-724-3576.
Reed Creek Park and Interpretive Center 3820 Park Lane, Martinez. 706-210-4027. www.ReedCreekPark.com. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Pre-registration required. Call for fee information. November 14. Fall Festival. Enjoy live music by The Band Kelley, barbecue, kids games, local vendors, petting zoo and more. Free admission. Small fee for some activities. 11 a.m.–3 p.m. November 17. Mr. Nate’s Nature Reading Room. Storytime in a natural setting to inspire the imagination followed up with a stroll on the boardwalk around the wetlands. For ages 2 to 4. 10-10:45 a.m.
THE ARTS, MUSIC AND MORE November 1 1-December 31. Brown Sugar Quilters
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November 1-13. South Carolina Watermedia Society Annual Exhibition. This annual juried exhibition will feature between 50 to 70 of the most talented water-based media artists from across South Carolina, Georgia and North Carolina. The Arts and Heritage Center of North Augusta. www.artsandheritagecenter.com. November 2-December 5. Aiken Center for the Arts Exhibition. Featuring the work of Robert Stevens, the Athens Metal Guild, and Joy Abbott. In the children’s gallery, work by the S.C. School for the Deaf and Blind. Opening reception, November 5. 6-8 p.m. Aiken Center for the Arts. 803-641-9094. November 5-6. Vivace. A modern and thrilling combination of four exceptional pop and classical singers, Vivace is the latest addition to the classical crossover/popera genre. Their stirring combination of powerful male voices and emotionally driven female vocals create a sound that is exclusively their own. With a rich and diverse repertoire ranging from pop, to arias, to their own material, Vivace undoubtedly puts a fresh take on the classical and modern music of today.7:30 p.m. URS Theater. Aiken. 803643-4774. November
5-24.
Cheryl
Goldsleger
Exhibit.
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My Best Friend’s Sewing Room Children's Sewing Classes 3850 Washington Rd., Suite 4C, Martinez. Contact Jordan Nuques, 706-993-8819 or email mybfsewingroom@yahoo.com Call or email for class fees. Pre-registration is required. Ages 8 and up. November 7. Christmas Stocking. Sew a wonderful Christmas heirloom. Includes supplies & machine use. 10 a.m.-noon. November 7. Fringe Scarf. Make a fun, fringed fleece scarf! Supplies & machine use included. 1-3 p.m. November 8. Ice Cream Sewcial. Your child will design a project. Fabric kits provided. Must have taken a class with us before. We’ll finish with ice cream! 2-4 p.m. November 14. Mommy & Me. Make a date with your daughter and sew a half apron. No sewing experience required. 1-3 p.m. November 21. Pinterest Party. Join Ms. Patty at this mixed-media Pinterest-worthy “sew crafty” event. 10 a.m.-noon. November 21. Hand Warmers & Hot Pads. These projects are perfect for cooler weather. 1-3 p.m. November 23 & 24. Two-Day Morning Sewing Camp. Holiday themed projects offered. 10 a.m.-noon. November 23 & 24. Two-Day AfternoonSewing Camp. Holiday themed projects offered. 1-3 p.m. November 27.Black Friday Drop and Shop. Enjoy your shopping while your kids learn to sew. Pack a lunch. 10 a.m.-2 p.m. November 28. Christmas Ornaments. Make adorable ornaments for your tree. 10 a.m.-noon.
Works by nationally known Georgia artist and educator, and incoming Morris Eminent Scholar. Artist talk Nov. 5, 5-6 p.m. Room 170, University Hall. Reception, 6-7 p.m. Mary Byrd Gallery. GRU-Augusta Summerville campus.
40 pieces of original art—much of it painted by residents of the Georgia War Veterans Nursing Home— will be on display for the first time at Sacred Heart Cultural Center. The opening reception will be held Nov. 5 from 5-7 p.m. 706-721-2957. November 6-7. Oliver. Join the Greater Augusta Youth Theatre as they bring Charles Dickens’ beloved novel to life. Young orphan Oliver Twist navigates London’s underworld of theft and violence, searching for a home, a family and love. He is welcomed into a gang of child pickpockets led by the conniving, but charismatic, Fagin. When Oliver is falsely accused of a theft he didn’t commit, he is rescued by a kind and wealthy gentleman, to the dismay of Fagin’s violent sidekick, Bill Sykes. With spirited, timeless songs like “As Long as He Needs Me,” “Food, Glorious Food” and “Where is Love,” Oliver is a musical classic. 8 p.m. Imperial Theatre. www.imperialtheatre.com. November 6-8. Southern City Film Festival. Opening night kick-off party, screenings of work by emerging filmmakers, awards ceremony. Downtown Aiken. www.southerncity.org. November 7. Alcohol Ink Painting. Learn how to work with alcohol ink by completing two decorative tiles or use special yupo paper. No drawing or painting experience necessary. Different scenes will be provided for each of the two projects. Instructor Nanette Langner. All supplies included in course fee. Ages 15 and up. 10 a.m. at the Salvation Army Kroc Center, 1833 Broad St. 706-922-0171. November 7. Clay Holiday Serving Dish. Students ages 10 and up will learn how to make a two-section holiday bowl that's great for dips, nuts or candy. No previous experience with clay necessary. Great parent and child class. Supplies included in fee. 10 a.m. at the Salvation Army Kroc Center, 1833 Broad St. 706-922-0171. November 8. Concerts With a Cause Presents 1945: Peace. A multi-media celebration of the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II. Featuring music on the themes of hope, love and peace, with video footage of local veterans’ stories. Guest artist Wycliffe Gordon. Free. 3-4:30 p.m. St. John United Methodist Church. 706-724-9641.
November 5-25. Veterans Art Exhibit. More than
November 13. Organ Spectacular. Featuring Symphony Orchestra Augusta. 7:30 p.m. First Baptist of Augusta. 706-826-4705.
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November 11-15. Bang, Bang, You’re Dead. A young man lies in a jail cell for having committed unspeakable crimes. Five of those he murdered earlier that day—figments of his imagination—enter his cell demanding answers. Youth wing performance. Aiken Community Playhouse. 803-648-1438. November 13. The Kentucky Headhunters. Described by Billboard magazine as “the great American rock ‘n’ roll band,” the Kentucky Headhunters debuted in 1989 with “Pickin’ On Nashville,” which sold over two million copies and won a Grammy Award, three Country Music Awards, an American Music Award, and an Academy of Country Music Award. 7:30 p.m. Imperial Theatre. www.imperialtheatre.com. November 13-14, 20-21 and December 3-5. Greetings. This play takes on the sensitive subjects of death, prejudice and objective versus subjective reality. Whether you celebrate Christmas or Hanukkah, this “guess who’s coming to dinner” comedy should not be missed. 7 p.m. Fort Gordon Dinner Theatre. 706-793-8552. November 14. Frosty Basket. Weave a holiday basket with a hand-painted snowman in the base. Perfect for holiday entertaining. No previous weaving experience necessary. Ages 18 and up. 9 a.m. at the Salvation Army Kroc Center, 1833 Broad St. 706-922-0171. November 14. Beginning Painting 2. Learn to paint with acrylics while you complete your first painting. No previous experience drawing or painting required. All supplies included in fee. Ages 15 and up. 9 a.m. at the Salvation Army Kroc Center, 1833 Broad St. 706-922-0171. November 14. Alexander Schimpf. Since being awarded first prize in the 2011 Cleveland International Piano Competition, Alexander Schimpf’s career has gained great momentum. He has given major performances in Vienna, Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, St. Petersburg, and New York’s Carnegie Hall, as well as several other U.S. cities. 7:30 p.m. Maxwell Theatre. GRU-Augusta Summerville campus. www.hjcms.org. November 17. 17th Annual Kicks 99 Guitar Pull. Line-up includes Sam Hunt, Thomas Rhett, Craig Morgan, Jana Kramer and others. Benefits the Million Pennies for Kids Campaign. 7:30 p.m. James Brown Arena. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
calendar November 19. A Salute to Elvis. Graceland’s favorite tribute artist, Terry Mike Jeffrey, joins Symphony Orchestra Augusta for his astonishing salute to Elvis Presley. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. 706-826-4705. November 19-21. Days on a Wire. Wall Street Businessman Adam Sinclair is diagnosed with advanced brain cancer and goes to a secluded hotel to await treatment. While there, he stumbles into the girl of his dreams, but quickly gets wrapped up in a dangerous plot when he discovers she is engaged to his arch rival, Dwight Graft, a formidable Wall Street tycoon. Performed by the University Theatre Players. 7:30 p.m. USC-Aiken Etherredge Center. 803641-3305. November 20-December 15. Whiskey Painters of America. Opening reception, November 20. Whiskey tastings and whiskey-based delicacies, painting demonstrations and music. 7 p.m. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art. 706-722-5495. November 27-29. The Nutcracker. A traditional holiday favorite presented by Dance Augusta. Nov. 27, 7 p.m. Nov. 28, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Nov. 29, 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. Imperial Theatre. www.imperialtheatre.com. November 27-29, December 4-6 and 11-12. Fruitcakes. Mix together a batch of fruitcakes, three dozen Christmas trees, a chicken pox epidemic, two Southern spinsters, a lost cat and a Christmas hog and you’ve got the recipe for a fun-filled and touching evening of holiday cheer. November 27-28, December 4-5 and 11-12, 7:30 p.m. November 29 and December 6, 3 p.m. Aiken Community Playhouse. 803-648-1438. November 20. An Acoustic Evening With Collin Raye. One of the true hit makers of the 1990s, Collin Raye continues to deliver soulful material with the honesty and richness that is signature to his vocals. With 24 top-10 records and 16 number-one hits, he is truly an electrifying performer and one of the great voices of our time. 7:30 p.m. Jabez Performing Arts Center. 706-447-7652.
cinated by the wooden birds, he took several trips northward along the East Coast from his Georgia home, seeking fellow decoy collectors, antique shops and carvers, purchasing a variety of handcarved, painted birds and listening to the stories of craftsmen and hunters. Today early American decoys are highly collectible and widely recognized as a true form of early American folk art. November 1-January 3. Real Lives: Observations and Reflections by Dale Kennington. This exhibition features nearly 30 paintings by acclaimed realist Dale Kennington. Born in Savannah, Ga., in 1935, she earned a BA in art history from the University of Alabama in 1956. She turned to painting in her early 40s because she wanted portraits of her children. Years later, she gave up portraiture for the kind of work for which she has become famous. The recipient of many accolades and honors, she was recognized by the Alabama State Council on the Arts with a Governor’s Arts Award in 2011. November 1-8. The New American Landscape: Paintings by Robert Stark. Artist Robert Stark has been the subject of solo exhibitions at the Corcoran Gallery of Art and the Phillips Collection in Washington, D.C., Cheekwood Museum of Art in Nashville, Tenn., the Southern Alleghenies Museum of Art in Johnstown, Penn. and ArtWorks in Cincinnati, Ohio. His paintings have traveled to more than 140 world capitals under the U.S. Department of State’s Art in Embassies program. He is represented in museum, corporate and private collections all over the United States. November 1. Artrageous! Family Sunday: Duck, Duck, Goose and Swan. Duck call contests, a mini petting zoo featuring waterfowl and many other art activities. Staff from Cabela’s will be on hand to discuss the great outdoors and showcase sporting products. Free. 2 p.m. November 5. Lecture and Book Signing: Robert Hicks. Meet the author of The Widow of the South and A Separate Country. Reception follows. Free. 6 p.m.
November 1-December 1. Decoys From the Collection of Dr. Lloyd Newberry. Dr. Lloyd Newberry, an avid big-game hunter, author and retired educator, began collecting decoys in the late 1960s. Fas-
Registration is open until January 1 for children ages 6 to 18 with physical disabilities and their families to enjoy a safe, medically supervised camp. Walton Foundtion for Independence's Winter Weekend Camp will be held February 5-7 at Camp Twin Lakes in Rutledge, Ga. artist Dane Carder discusses his beautifully haunting paintings on view in the Education Gallery. Catered lunch. Paid reservations due by Nov. 4. Noon. November 13. Noon. Films on Friday: The Horse Soldiers (1959). This film is a fictionalization of Colonel Benjamin Grierson's 1863 raid through Mississippi. After viewing the film, museum director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion. Bring lunch. Free. November 15. Music at the Morris. The Yesterukes of upstate South Carolina strum popular hits from the 1930s to 1970s. Free. 2 p.m.
SPORTS & RECREATION November 5. Cosmic Golf ParTee. The First Tee of Augusta is transforming its Annual Golf Classic into a "Cosmic Golf ParTee." For The Cosmic Party, the driving range will be transformed from 6-10 p.m. with giant glowing smart targets which respond with light and sound when you hit them. The Cosmic Tournament from 6:30-8 p.m. will include a six-hole par 3 scramble played with Glowv2 UV golf balls which perform like regular balls. The fairways, bunkers and greens will be aglow with light. Contact Jill Brown at jbrown@thefirstteeaugusta.org to register or to purchase tickets to the party.
November 6. Art at Lunch: Dane Carder. Nashville
November 7. Turkey Trot 5K. Flash back to the '80s again this year, dressed in your totally rad costume. Prizes will be awarded for the best dressed runners! Don't forget about the Mascot Invitational. All race proceeds will benefit our local Salvation Army. Race start and family-friendly activities will be located at the Old Academy of Richmond County, 540 Telfair St., Augusta. Check-in begins at 7 a.m. Packet pick-up at Warrior Fitness Center the day before the event from 3-6 p.m. Register online at www.fortgordonrunseries.com. For more information, 706-831-6536.
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Morris Museum of Art 1 Tenth St. 706-724-7501 or www.themorris.org.
Camp Twin Lakes Walton Winter Weekend www.waltonfoundation.net. Contact Haley Hamam at 706-826-2016.
November 5. Mommy and Me: Decorate a Duck. View the exhibit Decoys from the Collection of Dr. Lloyd Newberry and learn how duck decoys are crafted. Afterwards, decorate your own duck. Registration required. 10-11 a.m.
calendar Storytimes Barnes & Noble Augusta Mall 3450 Wrightsboro Rd. 706-737-0012. November 4, 11 & 18. Wacky Wednesday Storytime. A fun storytime for kids of all ages beginning at 10 a.m. November 7 & 14. Children's Saturday Storytime. "Rosie Reverie, Engineer and Iggy Peck, Architect" on Nov. 7 and "The Little Snowplow" on Nov. 14. 11 a.m.
November 7. Walk To End Alzheimer's. Supporting those living with Alzheimers and the caregivers who fight day after day to bring hope that together we can find a cure. Registration begins at 9 a.m. at the Augusta Commons. Race begins at 10 a.m. Call 706-836-3461 for information. November 7. Pacing for the Pieces. Benefits Easter Seals of Georgia. 9 a.m. Evans Towne Center Park. 706-863-9699. November 14. Dance Dash 5k. Benefitting children's Hospital of Georgia. A 5k with a twist—it's a run/walk event with a dose of dancing all to help local sick and injured kids. At each stop on the race route you'll learn a portion of a dance and at the finish line celebrate with a flash mob finale. Register at www.dancedash.org/event/augusta/. 9 a.m. at Children's Hospital of Georgia, 1446 Harper St. Contact Jessica Seigler at jeseigler@gru.edu or 706-446-0232. November 21. Stick a Fork in Me, I'm Done! Ten kilometer and half marathon distances. The course traces the historic Bartram Trail east out of the park towards the Petersburg Campground and returns along internal park trails. The start/finish and registration area will be inside the park adjacent to the boat trailer parking area. 9 a.m. Wildwood Park. www.augustastriders.com. November 28. Toys for Tots Fishing Tournament. Wildwood Park. 706-541-0586.
South Augusta, Fleming Athletic Office, Daniel St., 706-796-5047. West Augusta, Eisenhower Athletic Office, 488 Eisenhower Dr. 706-821-2801.
Martial Arts Classes. Ages 8-adult. Goshinjitsu, Kindai Karate and Kobojutsu. Call for information.
November 2-6 & 9-13. Youth Winter Athletic Registration. Noon to 6 p.m. at the locations listed above. Boys and girls bantam basketball ages 6-8, pee wee basketball ages 9-10, midget basketball ages 11-12, junior basketball ages 13-14 and senior basketball ages 15-17.
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November 2-30. Adult Winter Athletic Registration. Register from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Diamond Lake Adult Complex, 108 Diamond Lakes Way, Hephzibah. Call 706-771-2980 for more information.
803-648-7042 or fourmckeels@yahoo.com. Thursdays. This playgroup is open to all home schoolers. Meets at the O’Dell Weeks playground for unstructured play for the children and time with other home school parents for the adults. Noon.
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Champions Made From Adversity P.O. Box 980, Evans, Ga. 706-364-2422. www.cmfa.us. This nonprofit organization strives to advance the lives of people with physical disabilities and their families through sport and leisure opportunities. Current weekly schedule: Monday—Adapted fitness at the Kroc Center, 2-4 p.m. and wheelchair basketball at Garrett Elementary School, 6:30-8 p.m. Tuesday—Swimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and quad rugby at the Kroc Center, 6-8 p.m. Wednesday—Wheelchair basketball, 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday—Swimming at Fort Gordon, 9-11 a.m., and Adapted Fitness at the Kroc Center, 3-5 p.m. Friday—Adapted cycling at the uptown VA, 1:302:30 p.m.
Ongoing. The Mothers Circle. Free course, resources, education and events for women of other backgrounds raising Jewish children. Call for details. Sign Up for Class! The AJCC offers a wide variety of classes for children of all ages and adults, including athletics, the arts, cooking, language and more. Log on to download a complete listing.
$MBTTJDBM $POWFSTBUJPOT www.classicalconversations.com. kelli.c.graham@att.net. Classical Conversations is a community of home educators following a Christian, classical model of education. Five locations currently serve families in the CSRA—Augusta, Evans/Grovetown, Grovetown/ Martinez, North Augusta and Aiken.
.POLFZ +PF T Columbia County Parks & Recreation Department 5445 Columbia Rd., Grovetown. 706-863-7523. Online registration at: https://egov.columbiacountyga.gov/webtrac. November 2-15. Winter Basketball Registration. Boys ages 5-16 and girls ages 5-15 divided by age group into leagues. Age control date is Dec. 31, 2015. Mail-in registration must be postmarked by Nov. 12.
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East Augusta, May Park, 622 4th St., 706-724-0505.
803-221-0330 or csraDefensiveArts.com.
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368 Furys Ferry Rd. 706-922-JUMP (5867). monkeyjoes.com. First Sunday of Each Month. Special Needs Night at Monkey Joe’s. This event is held the first Sunday of each month after general store hours to ensure a calm environment for special needs children and their parents. 6-7 p.m.
/PSUI "VHVTUB )PNFTDIPPM 1MBZHSPVQ Meets Thursdays at various North Augusta parks for play. Field trips will also be scheduled. All homeschoolers are welcome. Call 803-613-0484 or e-mail emilykohlbacher@hotmail.com.
calendar HOSPITAL PROGRAMS Georgia Regents Health System Register online at gru.edu. Ongoing. Support Group for Families Who Have Lost a Baby During Pregnancy, Childbirth or Early Infancy. Call 706-721-8299 or visit their website. First Tuesday of Each Month. Autism Spectrum Disorder Support and Resource Group (The “ATeam”). Education and support for families, caregivers and friends of children with autism spectrum disorders including autism, Asperger’s and PDD NOS. 6-7 p.m. Children’s Hospital of Georgia, First Floor, Family Resource Library, Room 1801. Call Family Services Development at 706721-5160 for more information. First Thursday and Third Wednesday of Each Month. Cribs for Kids. Co-bunking and inappropriate infant furniture are putting area babies at risk. Safe Kids Greater Augusta, led by Children's Hospital of Georgia, will teach caregivers how to provide a safe sleep environment by showing what dangers to watch out for. Families who can demonstrate a financial need (Medicare, Peachcare or WICC) will receive a portable crib, fitted sheet, sleep sac and pacifier for a small fee. Call Rene Hopkins at 706-721-7606 to register. 5:45-8 p.m. on the first Thursday of the month, 9:45 a.m.-noon on the third Wednesday of each month. Safe Kids Office, Building 1010C,1225 Walton Way. First Friday and Second Wednesday of Each Month. Child Safety Seat Inspections. Four out of five car seats are used incorrectly. Schedule an appointment to make sure yours is installed properly. First Friday of the month in Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call Rene Hopkins, RN, at 706-7217606 to schedule an appointment at the downtown location. The second Wednesday each month at Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Substation, 650 Ronald Reagan Dr. Call 706-541-3870 to make an appointment at the Columbia County location. Second Thursday and Fourth Wednesday of Each Month. Car Seat Class. Safe Kids Greater Augusta offers car seat safety, education and training. Financial assistance is available to Medicaid and Peach Care eligible families. Safe Kids Office, Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call 706-721-7606 to register. 5:45-8 p.m.
Holidaze Broadway director Neil Goldberg re-imagines the holiday season with over 300 costumes, 20 acts and 30 performers from 12 countries showcasing a variety of imaginative, heart-pounding and gravity-defying feats. Experience gingerbread men flipping midair, toy soldiers marching on thin wires along with snowmen, icemen and penguins. Cirque Dreams Holidaze celebrates the most wonderful time of the year with singers, choreography and exciting production numbers. Performers twirl, bounce and soar to original music and seasonal favorites brought to life in a setting of gigantic gifts, colossal candy canes and 30-foot towering trees. Nov. 20. 8 p.m. Bell Auditorium. www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com.
Second Thursday of Each Month. NICU Parent Support Group. Noon-1 p.m. in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 5th Floor, Children’s Hospital of Georgia; For more information, call Sylvia McCoy at 706-721-2286.
Trinity Hospital of Augusta
Third Tuesday of Each Month. Breastfeeding Class. A free class led by an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant. Helps expectant parents gain knowledge and support to ensure successful breastfeeding. 7-9 p.m., Georgia Regents Medical Center, 7th Floor South, Room 7524.
November 3. On Being a Girl. This class is designed for girls ages 9-12 accompanied by their mother, a female friend or relative. Discussion is focused on physical and emotional changes of puberty.
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Call Women’s Health Services at 706-481-7727 or visit trinityofaugusta.com for information and registration. Please call for class times.
November 7. Saturday Express Lamaze Childbirth
calendar Education. Helps mother and support person understand the final stages of pregnancy as well as labor and the birth of your baby. Covers natural and medicated deliveries, Lamaze coping techniques and more. 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. November 9. Infant CPR. Learn how to respond in an emergency situation using infant mannequins and a simple step-by-step method.
worry about knowing how to revive your baby should the need arise? This class provides an opportunity to learn and practice infant CPR on mannequins and learn other aspects of infant safety. Space is limited, so early registration is suggested. 7-8:30 p.m.
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November 17. Childbirth Education 101. Learn about the signs and symptoms of labor as well as labor and delivery. November 20. Baby Care Basics & Breastfeeding. This class combines two important topics. A board-certified lactation consultant teaches the class and covers a range of helpful topics including diapering, bathing, feeding, cord care, nipple care, milk storage, weaning and more. November 20. Breastfeeding Support Group. Help, understanding and guidance in breastfeeding.
University Health Care System Call 706-774-2825 or logon at www.universityhealth. org/calendar for information. Registration is required for most programs. November 2-23 (Mondays), November 3-24 (Tuesdays) or November 4-18 (Wednesdays). Prenatal Education. This multi-week series of childbirth preparation classes is designed to inform and prepare all expectant parents regardless of birth plans. Class topics include various stages of labor, breathing and relaxation and how to care for yourself and your new baby. 7-9 p.m. in the Women’s Center Third Floor Classroom. Registration required. November 6 & 7 or 20 & 21. Childbirth Preparation Weekend Class. A complete childbirth preparation class designed for those with time constraints or fluctuating schedules. Class meets from 6:30-9:30 p.m. on Friday and from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. on Saturday. Also included is a follow-up evening at the W.G. Watson, M.D., Women’s Center for a tour, questionand-answer session and review. November 19. Breastfeeding Class. This class offers in-depth information on how to evaluate breastfeeding and get off to a good start. Registration is suggested. Call 706-774-2825. 7-8 p.m. at Babies R Us, 4225 Washington Rd., Evans.
Contact Jennifer Stanley at 706-855-0072 or phlegalesfan@att.net. A community for moms in the Augusta area offering support, friendship and fun as well as the opportunity to exchange information. The group, which is part of The Mommies Network, also provides discussion forums, an events calendar and more. Meeting are held online, at local parks, members homes (for monthly BUNCO) and on field trips. All mothers are welcome.
Augusta Food Allergy Group Does your child have severe, potentially fatal food allergies. Would you like to get together with other parents who face the same challenges? This group meets the fourth Tuesday of each month in the Evans Government Center Auditorium, Building A, 630 Ronald Reagan Dr. Free and welcome to anyone dealing with food allergies. Meetings often include special guest speakers. 6 p.m. Contact Sheena Whitlock at swhitlock@augustafoodallergy.org or go to www.augustafoodallergy.org.
month at 2 p.m. at the Southeastern Firefighters Burn Foundation, 3614 J. Dewey Gray Circle, Building C. Call 800-650-BURN or go to www.sfbd.net.
Celiac Disease Support Group Email RoseforHealth@aol.com. Meets the third Tuesday of every month in Suite 120 of the Summerville Building, adjacent to Trinity Hospital of Augusta. Open to those with celiac disease, gluten intolerance or on a gluten-free diet. Discussions include information on celiac disease, do’s and don’ts of a gluten-free diet and more. 7-8:30 p.m.
Common Bond Parent Support Group Geneice McCoy, organizer. 706-729-0012 or commonbond@comcast.net. For parents of children of all ages and diagnoses with challenging disabilities but remarkable perseverance and resilience. Meets the second Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. Call for location.
La Leche League This breastfeeding support group meets the second Tuesday of each month at 10 a.m. at the First Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church, 2204 Kimberly Dr. Evening meetings are held on the third Thursday of each month at 7 p.m. at Wesley United Methodist Church. Call 706-737-2405 or log on at lllusa.org/web/AugustaGA.html.
MOMS Club AustiCare Contact Donyale Clarke at 803-384-0522. This Autism support group meets the first Thursday of each month at 6 p.m. at AGC Teacher Supply. Preregistration is required. Attendance is free.
The Bradley Method of Natural Childbirth Contact LeReese Bennett at 706-541-0970 or roger.bennett06@comcast.net. This 12-week class is designed to prepare moms and their partners for a wonderful birth experience. Topics include nutrition, exercise, breastfeeding and post-partum care, as well as all stages of labor. There are weekly birth-related videos and relaxation practices. Call for dates and times.
Burn Survivors Support Group
November 19. Introduction to Infant CPR. Do you
The Southeastern Firefighters Burn Foundation invites all burn survivors to attend this monthly support group. Meetings are held the fourth Wednesday each
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Visit momsclubaugusta.org. Ever feel like you’re the only mother who stays home? You are not alone! Come meet other at-home mothers at the MOMS Club, an international nonprofit organization.
MOMS Club of Grovetown www.momsclubofgrovetown.weebly.com Momsclubofgrovetown@gmail.com Members come from Grovetown, Harlem and the communities of Fort Gordon. The group is not affiliated with any parenting style, religion, or ethnic group. MOMS Club is open to and accepting of any and all moms who are at-home with their children.
Moms Connection Call 706-721-8283 for more information. Every Tuesday. A free weekly support group for new mothers. All new moms are welcome and can bring their baby. Information from International Board Certified Lactation Consultant/Educator/Perinatal
calendar Nurse. Weigh your baby, share refreshments and meet other moms while getting answers to your questions along with timely advice from the Georgia Regents Women’s Health team and guest speakers. 10:30-11:30 a.m., Georgia Regents Medical Center, second floor, Terrace Dining Magnolia Room.
Mothers of Advanced Maternal Age (Mama’s) Did you have a child at age 35 or older? Are you expecting? This group of “older� moms welcomes you for meetings, support and play dates. Disabled children welcome. Contact Ami McKenzie at 706-3645245 or hoopnhollar2@yahoo.com or go to http:// groups.yahoo.com/group/MaMasInAugusta/.
Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) A nondenominational Christian group for mothers of preschool-aged children. Childcare provided. Meets the first and third Tuesday of each month from 10 a.m.-noon at First Presbyterian Church of Augusta, 642 Telfair Street. Call Amy Toney at 803-341-1904 or go to www.firstpresaugusta.org/MOPS. The Aiken charter group of MOPS meets the Second Tuesday of each month for moms to learn, share, support each other and socialize. Meetings are held in the South Aiken Presbyterian Church fellowship hall, 1711 Whiskey Rd. Free childcare and dinner for those attending, reservations required. You do not need to be a member of South Aiken Presbyterian to attend. Check out MOPS Aiken on Facebook, contact Jennie Beat at 803-640-4742 or email mopsaiken@gmail. com for more information or to register for childcare.
Neighbor To Family 801 Greene St., Augusta. Call Kimberly Lee-Branch, coordinator of licensing, recruitment and training at 706-396-2180, ext. 107. The goal of this organization is to revolutionize foster care by keeping siblings together while building healthier families.
Overeaters Anonymous 907-854-1509. A non-profit 12-step support group for people addicted to food. No dues or fees for membership. Meets in Augusta on Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m. at St. Andrews Presbyterian Church, 3551 Wheeler Road, and Saturdays at 1:30 p.m. at Covenant Presbyterian Church, 3131 Walton Way.
Parent Support Group The Child Advocacy Center, a program of Child Enrichment Inc., a nonprofit organization serving vic-
Perfect Piano Since being awarded first prize in the 2011 Cleveland International Piano Competition, Alexander Schimpf’s career has gained great momentum. He has given major performances in Vienna, Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, St. Petersburg and New York’s Carnegie Hall, as well as several other U.S. cities. His final round performance at Severance Hall with the renowned Cleveland Orchestra was given a standing ovation and additionally honored with the Audience Favorite Prize. /PWFNCFS Q N .BYXFMM 5IFBUSF (36 "VHVTUB 4VNNFSWJMMF DBNQVT XXX IKDNT PSH
tims of sexual abuse in our community, is offering a support group for parents and caregivers of children who have been sexually abused. Groups will be held the second Tuesday of each month. Call 706-7374631 for information and location. This group is not appropriate for sex offenders.
Peaceful Parenting Augusta
Prevent Child Abuse Augusta Rape Crisis & Sexual Assault Services: 706-724-5200. preventchildabuseaugusta@gmail.com. Prevent Child Abuse Augusta is a volunteerbased non-profit organization which meets on the third Wednesday of each month at University Hospital. Meetings include informative speakers and other community representatives. If you are interested in participating in this collaborative effort or would like more details please call or email.v
This unofficial Attachment Parenting support group is for families who believe in parenting gently and building children’s spirits, minds and bodies through nurturing, attentive and practical approaches. Join their Yahoo! group at Peaceful_Parenting_Augusta or email Jen at theotherbradford@yahoo.com.
Submit calendar information to karin.calloway@augustafamily.com.
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Merry Glenne Piccolino | Determined Merry Glenne Piccolino, 34, of Aiken, is the director of communications for the Aiken County Public School District. She and her husband, Ed, superintendent of the Aiken Golf Club, have two daughters, Isabella, 6, and Holland, 3. Their household includes many pets: a Bernese Mountain Dog, Clover, a Holland Lop Bunny, Rosie, a Guinea Pig and seven unnamed fish. Merry Glenne serves on the board of The United Way of Aiken County. Quality she admires the most: Positivity. Favorite food: Pizza. Life lesson: Walk in like you own the place. Hardest thing about being a mom: Balance. Favorite place to take the kids: To Granny’s house. Favorite indulgence: Sea Salt Caramel Gelato. First job: A waitress. Signature dish: Macaroni and Cheese. Favorite Subject in School: English. Is reading: Talk Like TED: The 9 Public-Speaking Secrets of the World’s Top Minds by Carmine Gallo. What inspires her: Passion. Favorite college football team: Georgia. Song playing in her head: “The Hokey Pokey.” Holland just learned it and “that’s what it’s all about!”
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