February 2013 ANNUAL PARTY GUIDE SLEEPOVER SUCCESS TAKE CARE OF YOUR TICKER SHOW YOUR KIDS WHAT ADULT LOVE LOOKS LIKE
Family AUGUSTA
m a g a z i n e
Melanie and Lawrence Johnson, 3 and 9, are the children of Raymund and Marites Johnson of Evans.
Family AUGUSTA
m a g a z i n e
w w w. a u g u s t afamily.co m Publisher Kate Cooper Metts
Contents 21
Editor Karin Calloway Production Art Director / Web Producer Michael Rushbrook
February 2013
Party Time! Our Guide To Party Places Throughout the CSRA - Lucy Adams
Graphic Artist Chris Goodman Advertising Director of Advertising Lisa Dorn Advertising Sales Elizabeth Sisson Maidi McMurtrie Thompson Mary Porter Vann Audience Development Manager Doressa Hawes photography Branch Carter and John Harpring contributors Lucy Adams Kim Beavers, MS, RD, CDE Grace Belangia J. Ron Eaker, M.D. Cammie Jones Jennie Montgomery Danielle Wong Moores
departments
7 editor’s page 9 mom2mom Cruisin’ Confusion
-Jennie Montgomery
10 news&notes 12 eating well with kim Need a Dietitian? -Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE
Augusta Family Magazine is published 10 times per year and distributed throughout the Augusta and Aiken area. Send press releases, story ideas or comments to the editor at karin.calloway@augustafamily.com or mail to 127A 7th Street, Augusta, GA 30901 or telephone (706) 828-3946. For advertising information, telephone (706) 823-3702. For circulation/ distribution, call (706) 823-3722.
15 doctor/dad Bioidentical Hormones -J. Ron Eaker, M.D.
16 healthy family Taking Care of Your Ticker -Danielle Wong Moores
18 home front Sleepover Success -Mary Helen Berg
30 time out! The Look of Love
12 Ways To Show Kids What Grown-Up Love Looks Like
-Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D
32 inspiration station Riding High in the Saddle -Lucy Adams
34 calendar 46 talkin’ about my generation
on the cover: On the Cover: Melanie and Lawrence Johnson, 3 and 9, are the children of Raymund and Marites Johnson of Evans. Photo by Branch Carter
Susan Morris, Keith Pickett and Victoria Vallotton -Grace Belangia
“Parents’ words and actions teach kids how to show interest and express love, and what it means to be in a committed relationship. If your kids’ love lessons come from Hollywood movies and YouTube videos, you might want to make your displays of affection more public.” Learn 12 ways to show your children what grown-up love looks like in Heidi Smith Luedtke’s article on page 30.
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Augusta Family | February 2013 • 5
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editor’s by Karin Calloway
Photo courtesy of Surfaceheroes
Heroes Found
The flag was raised aboard amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) in memory of the Sandy Hook Elementary School victims and their families. The flag was then mailed to Newtown, Conn., as a symbol of support and sympathy.
T
here’s been a lot going on in the news lately and as a journalist I’ve found it hard to remove myself from the television, radio or Internet for fear of missing another breaking story. The election. The attack on the embassy in Benghazi. The Petraeus scandals. Then there was the news that Lance Armstrong was finally “fessing up” for doping. And more recently, the news that the heartbreaking story of star Notre Dame football player Manti T’eo’s “love of his life,” who died of cancer the same day as his grandmother, was false. She never existed. The last three “sound bites” made me wonder, “Are there no more heroes?” Then I recalled the recent, most horrific news I could imagine—the mass shootings at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., which left 20 young children and six school staff dead. I can’t even begin to wrap my brain around this event. Who kills six and seven year olds? What can we do to prevent such a tragedy in the future? I definitely don’t have the answers. But I did find my heroes. Six educators: Rachel Davino, Dawn Hochsprung, Anne Marie Murphy, Lauren Rousseau, Mary Sherlach and Victoria Soto. They’re the Sandy Hook faculty and staff who gave their lives protecting their students. It has dawned on me that I need to listen to what I’ve always told my kids— being rich, powerful or famous doesn’t make you a hero. The heroes are among us. Those educators, veterans and soldiers, moms, dads, grandparents and other everyday people who spend their time in service to others. Until March,
Karin Calloway is a wife and mother of two. She’s also a journalist and recipe developer who writes the Wednesday cooking column for The Augusta Chronicle. Karin prepares her weekly recipes in segments aired during the midday show on Tuesdays and during Good Morning Augusta on Wednesdays on WJBF.
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Augusta Family | February 2013 • 7
Dental Health Month
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2
mom m m by Jennie Montgomery
I’m just not comfortable with people
W... WHAT?!
waiting
Illustration by Michael Rushbrook
on me.
Cruisin’ Confusion We’ve talked about taking a big family trip for Christmas for several years and we finally did it. We had a great time in the Bahamas and a whole lot of laughs, but I learned two things: First, my kids missed our family traditions on Christmas Eve and Christmas morning (which warmed my heart). Second, my son’s perception of reality is seriously skewed by the sea’s gentle rocking (which blew my mind). To me, cruising is the ultimate vacation—you just show up. No packing supplies for a rented condo…no grocery shopping…no food preparation whatsoever. No bed making. NOTHING that resembles what I do regularly at home! Did I say no food preparation? Even on the pool deck, you don’t have to leave your sweet chaise lounge for a cool beverage. Before you realize you’re thirsty, a pool boy in tight shorts is standing nearby with fruity umbrella-garnished frozen drinks! What could be better? So Zack surprises me as we’re gathering towels to go back to our cabins and says, “Where can I take these cups, Mom?” “You don’t take them anywhere. The bar staff will get them.” “Yeah. I’m just not comfortable with people waiting on me.” Since when? I’m thinking this kid has no problem being waited on at home! My husband chimes in, “That’s hilarious, Zack. Stop! Lightning will strike the ship.” A few hours later we were in the dining room and Zack started the whole “this just isn’t me” speech again. We had several waiters tending to our “needs” (again, I am loving this) when Zack said he felt sorry for these guys working so hard just to serve dinner. I’m like, “They aren’t volunteers, Zack. It’s their job—they get paid!“ “I’m just not comfortable being served,” he insisted. I nearly fell off the boat! That, plus the earlier line about “Where can I put these dishes?” sent me into hysterics. Those of us who live with that boy know he leaves dishes wherever he finishes the last bite of food…on land, at least…in my Martinez home, in particular. It begged the question: “Who are you and what have you done with Zack?” JENNIE Montgomery anchors the evening news at WJBF-TV. She’s married to Scott and they have three children: Zack, 19, Maddy, 18, and Sky, 17.
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Augusta Family | February 2013 • 9
news notes —Michael Leunig, Australian poet
Pancakes With a Purpose
IHOP is giving away free pancakes on Tuesday, February 5,
to celebrate National Pancake Day. The fundraiser aims to raise $3 million to kick off Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals’ 30th anniversary.
More than 1,500 IHOP restaurants across the country will
invite guests to enjoy a complimentary stack of buttermilk pancakes from 7 a.m.-10 p.m. Guests will be encouraged to make a voluntary contribution to the local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital or other local charities. One hundred percent of the donations will help local charities provide vital equipment, life-saving procedures and critical care for sick and injured children.
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Fresh Faces
Is your child read for thier “close up?” If you think you’ve got a “cover kid,” submit their photo and information on our Web site and they may grace the cover of Augusta Family Magazine!
10 • Augusta Family | February 2013
Apply Online!
Visit our Web site to apply on the contest page. www.augustafamily.com
>
Apply Online! We’re looking for interesting members of the community ages 5 to 125 to feature in the Talkin’ About My Generation section of Augusta Family Magazine.
news notes Girls on the Run of the CSRA Celebrates Two Local Grants
Stephany White, executive director of Girls on the Run of the CSRA is pictured with Joel Simmons, left, and Tommy Rogers, right, both of the Border Bash Foundation.
Girls on the Run of the CSRA was recently awarded two grants from local foundations in support of its mission to inspire at-risk girls to live healthier and more confident lives. The not-for-profit organization received a $14,500 grant from the Community Foundation of the CSRA and a $2,000 grant from the Border Bash Foundation. The Community Foundation of the CSRA helps focus local philanthropy on pressing and changing community needs, while the Border Bash Foundation uses funds raised by the annual Border Bash event to benefit area organizations that positively impact children. Funds granted will be used to grow and expand Girls on the Run of the CSRA. Currently serving Aiken, Richmond, Columbia and Burke counties, GOTR plans to grow the program within existing counties, expand to other CSRA counties, plus provide scholarships for at-risk girls and support program and training costs. Since 2010, GOTR has positively impacted the lives of hundreds of area girls. The 10-week program, offered in the fall and the spring, teaches valuable life lessons through running games and culminates in a season-ending 5K.
GOTR’s spring 5K takes place on Saturday, May 4. For more on Girls on the Run of the CSRA, visit girlsontherunofthecsra.org.
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Augusta Family | February 2013 • 11
eating well with kim
JOIN KIM
by Kim Beavers, MS, RD, LD, CDE
Need a Dietitian? When and Why a Dietitian May Be Your Next Step To Better Health
R
egardless of how you view resolutions, the beginning of a New Year brings about thoughts of health, nutrition and exercise. Now that it’s February, many have already tossed their New Year’s resolutions aside. But it’s never too late to resolve to improve your diet—and a registered dietitian (RD) can help. So what can a RD do for you? Let’s start with some clarification regarding what it takes to become a RD.
Minimum Requirements • A bachelor’s degree. However, about half of RDs hold advanced degrees. • Completion of an internship (supervised practice). We are fortunate in the CSRA to have an internship program at University Hospital which trains 12 interns a year. • Passing the national registration exam, after which the term registered dietitian can be used. • Yearly continuing education to maintain registration.
Dietitian Versus Nutritionist This can be a point of great confusion for health care consumers. Some RDs may call themselves “nutritionists,” but not all nutritionists are registered dietitians. The requirements for the term “nutritionist” vary. Some states have licensure laws that define the range of practice for the designation “nutritionist,” but in other states, virtually anyone can call him- or herself a “nutritionist” regardless of education or training. I have even heard of a dietitian whose pet qualified and received a “nutritionist” certificate off the internet.
What Can a Dietitian Do for You? • Provide education for the prevention and treatment of many chronic diseases including, but not limited to some of the following: - Weight management (weight gain or loss) - Diabetes including pre-diabetes - Heart disease (blood pressure control, cholesterol and lipid management, stroke risk reduction) - Kidney disease • Provide general nutrition education and guidance for a variety of topics such as: - Enhanced sports performance - Assistance with food allergies - Breastfeeding and child/family nutrition - Grocery shopping, healthy cooking, menu planning and other daily nutrition related activities. In addition, dietitians can assist companies with employee wellness, food marketing, menu analysis, community wellness and much more.
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Connecting With a RD
Join Kim at the 2013 Cardio on the Canal on Saturday, Feb. 9, at 9:30 a.m. at the Kroc Center.
The event will include a “Catch the Cardiologist” contest for children ages 4 and under, a Heart Art Walk, sports and dance demonstrations, U Heart Rock Concert with Tara Scheyer and the Mud Puppy Band, Cooking on the Canal with Kim, vendors, crafts and more. Go to www.universityhealth. org/charitablegiving for more information.
With 30 percent of the adult population in Georgia classified as obese and a continual rise in the number of people with diabetes, it seems everyone should have an appointment with a dietitian. So why aren’t more people referred to a dietitian? That is the very question that prompted this particular column. I cannot claim to know all the answers, but after discussing this with some of my dietitian friends I can give you the answer from the dietitian’s point of view and provide a few suggestions on how to access dietitian services. One reason patients do not get referred to dietitians may be that many physicians do not know what dietitian resources are available for patients. This is in part because as a group we, the dietitians, have not done a great job in promoting our services, something we are working to improve! Another reason why more patients are not referred to dietitians is because healthcare professionals (and people in general) tend to think, “I already know that I should eat healthy foods and exercise. My problem is that I just don’t do it…so how could a dietitian help?” To counter this line of thinking, I point out that dietitian services should be thought of like any other professional service. Take retirement planning for example. I know that I need to invest my money, yet I don’t sit down and take time to research where to invest. Instead, I seek the advice of an investment professional which saves time and yields greater success. A dietitian can do the same regarding food and nutrition-related issues that you may be struggling with. A dietitian will take the time to customize a nutrition plan, anticipate and eliminate barriers to success and answer questions regarding your nutrition plan as it relates to both your health history and specific goals. To access dietitian services: 1. Ask for a referral from your doctor! They are usually very happy to oblige. I did this for my mother (No, I cannot be my mother’s dietitian) and because of that referral request and her visit with her local dietitian she controlled her diabetes without medication. If you want a referral ask for it. 2. A referral is not always needed. RDs can be found at local gyms, pharmacies and at every hospital in town. 3. The Augusta District Dietetic Association Web site is also a great place to find local dietitian services. Just go to www.eatrightaugusta.org. 4. Lastly, there is a National list of dietitians at www.eatright.org. On the top right hand corner click the link for “find a dietitian” and type in your zip code. We are here and we want to help you reach your nutrition potential.
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eating well with kim Pan-Seared Fish with Herbs This is simple and delicious, not to mention quick!
12 ounces flounder 1 ½ teaspoon olive oil, divided 1 ½ tablespoon rosemary 2 tablespoon parsley
¼ teaspooncrushed black pepper ⅛ teaspoon salt 1 lemon
photography by raymond tan
Rinse and pat the fish dry with a paper towel. Place 1 teaspoon oil in a large nonstick or cast iron pan and heat over mediumhigh heat. Finely chop the rosemary and parsley together and combine with the salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Rub the fish with the remaining oil and press the herb mixture evenly into the fish. Place the fish herb-side up in the pan and cook without disturbing the fish for 90 seconds. Flip and cook through for approximately 60 more seconds. Serve with lemon.
Yield: 3 Servings Nutrition Breakdown: Calories 120, Fat 4g (0.5g saturated fat, 2g monounsaturated fat, 300mg Omega-3 fatty acids), Cholesterol 55mg, Sodium 190mg, Carbohydrate 1g, Fiber 0g, Protein 21g, Potassium 21mg, Phosphorus 209mg. Percent Daily Value: 10% Vitamin C, 2% Iron, 2% Calcium, 0% Vitamin A Carbohydrate Choice: 0 Carbohydrates Diabetes Exchanges: 3 Lean Meats
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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Augusta Family | February 2013 • 13
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doctor dad by J. Ron Eaker, M.D.
Bioidentical Hormones Myths Abound About Benefits, Safety of Bioidenticals
I
n 2008 I wrote a book, A Woman’s Guide to Hormone Health (Bethany Publishing) in which I surveyed the vast information about use, type, benefits and risks of hormone therapy. Probably no other field of medicine was, and to some degree still is, torn over the hormone controversy. Even today, with various large studies available, coherent, consistent, believable information on hormones is scattered and confusing. I want to take a moment and throw some light on the myths and misperceptions surrounding “natural” or “bioidentical” hormone preparations.
What’s Natural? First, some definitions. Let’s start by throwing out the term “natural” altogether. It is a confusing term that has no clear meaning. When I refer to “bioidentical” hormones I am simply referring to hormone medications, regardless of their source, that are equivalent to the hormones produced by the ovaries. These include estriol, estradiol, estrone, progesterone and testosterone. These bioidentical hormones are prescription medicines that treat the symptoms of menopause. They are not miracle pills, panaceas, magic or cheap. Estradiol and progesterone are commercially available and can be found in various forms (creams, pills, gels and patches) in virtually any pharmacy. The other bioidentical hormones can be mixed and matched and placed in a variety of concoctions (troches, creams, suppositories, capsules, etc.) at a compounding pharmacy.
No Symptoms, No Hormones The number one, and some would say only, reason for using hormones of any kind is to treat symptoms. The debate rages on as to the utility and safety of hormones for certain symptoms, and it is vital for you to talk with your doctor about your specific situation. Let me say from the outset that I prefer the bioi-
dentical estradiol and progesterone as I feel that the medical literature supports that there are fewer side effects and better tolerability. However, there is nothing intrinsically evil about “synthetic” hormones. I feel it is valuable to explore and explode a few misperceptions surrounding bioidenticals.
Myth Busting
Myth 1: Bioidentical hormones treat more than menopause. Several compounding pharmacies, some which make a substantial profit from selling bioidentical hormones, have propagated the idea that bioidenticals can do things they absolutely can’t. For example, I have seen ads claiming bioidentical hormone mixtures can help folks lose weight, prevent Alzheimer’s disease, reduce the risk of breast cancer and slow the aging process. These are blatantly false and have no substantiation in the medical literature. In fact, some pharmacies have been shut down or fined by the FDA for making grossly inappropriate claims about the hormones they “compound”. Myth 2: Compounded hormones are safer than other hormones. Because compounding pharmacies are not regulated by the FDA nor are their products tested for quality, purity and potency, bioidentical preparations
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can vary substantially from batch to batch. Compounding pharmacies buy the hormones from distributors. It is not known how many of the hormones are imported from other countries. No data have been submitted to the FDA to demonstrate that estriol (a commonly used bioidentical) is safe and effective. The FDA stated in 2008 that pharmacies should not compound products containing estriol unless the prescriber has submitted a valid investigational new drug application. Additionally, custom-compounded hormones don’t always inform patients of the “black box” warning carried on all FDA-approved hormone products about increased risks of myocardial infarction, stroke, invasive breast cancer, pulmonary embolism and deepvein thrombosis in postmenopausal women. The bottom line is that women should consider the risks of bioidenticals the same as other hormones, even though the risks are relatively small. Myth 3: Salivary testing is better than blood testing to tell a woman “exactly what hormones she needs.” This was popularized by that “renowned scientist” Suzanne Somers in one of her gaggle of books. There is no scientific basis for using saliva testing to adjust hormone levels. Free serum hormone concentrations in a midlife woman’s body change from day to day depending on diet, time of day, the specific hormone being tested and other variables. The dosing of compounded progesterone is particularly difficult to assess because the levels in serum, saliva and tissue are markedly different. It is not necessary to test hormone levels to treat symptoms. The take-home message is be a wise consumer, do your homework and talk with your doctor to meet your unique needs. Dr. Eaker is an Augusta Ob/GYN and author. He and his wife, Susan, have two teenage daughters.
Augusta Family | February 2013 • 15
healthyfamily }
by Danielle Wong Moores
Taking Care of Your Ticker Tips To Keep Your Heart Healthy
W
ayne Knight was only in his early 40s when, at a church health fair, he was shocked to find out that he was at risk for a heart attack. He almost couldn’t believe it, until his physician confirmed it. “That’s what really scared me, when I went to my regular doctor, and my cholesterol and my triglycerides were really high,” he says. Unfortunately, says Dr. William Callaghan, a cardiologist with University Health Care System, that’s often when most people start thinking about their heart health—when there’s a problem. “For most people we see, the cows are heading out of the barn already,” he says. “They’ve already had an event— a heart attack, chest pain or some other problem.” According to Callaghan, taking care of your heart isn’t something that should start at age 40, 30 or even 20, but in childhood. “Now children have become a target for cholesterol management,” he says. “It starts as children and teens. You begin to develop fatty streaks in the blood vessels and get fat depositing in the vessel walls, which causes atherosclerosis.” And atherosclerosis—or plaque buildup and hardening of the arteries—is a precursor to heart attack.
Stop Problems Before They Start Knight, like many of us, had a full work and family life—and that busy schedule often meant a lot of fast food and not enough time for exercise. It all changed once he got his diagnosis. Almost overnight, he transformed his diet to add more raw foods like fruits and vegetables, eliminate fried and fatty foods, and include whole grains like oatmeal and mu lt i - grain bread. He also began walking during lunch and before work, and slowly built up that morning walk into a run of three or four miles.
As simple as they sound, diet and exercise changes are often the hardest for people to accomplish, says Dr. Callaghan. “Basically they make bad choices,” he says, “and what I mean by that is that when choosing their foods, they take the thing that is maybe less healthy when there are some smart substitutions…and of course, they tend to exercise for a while, but don’t maintain an exercise program.” Regular exercise strengthens the heart and cardiovascular system, reduces blood pressure and improves circulation and reduces fat. And a diet low in fat (especially saturated fat) and cholesterol prevents fatty plaque from building up in blood vessels, which over time can lead to heart problems. Other smart choices include quitting tobacco use and watching sodium—both of which can lead to damaging high blood pressure. To put it simply, the effect on the blood vessels is like trying to force too much water through a hose. What happens next? The hose cracks. “What sodium does is it tends to increase the blood volume, and increases the amount of pressure in the blood vessels,” says Dr. Callaghan. And this continuous pressure and stress can affect the architecture of the vessels, causing tiny tears that increase the risk of plaque buildup and even blood clots.
Your Prescription for Heart Health • Don’t wait! Start today.
• Add exercise. Aim for 30 minutes a day, five times a week. Get your
• If you smoke, quit. Sign up for the American Cancer Society’s free FreshStart tobacco cessation classes at University Health Care System,
spouse or a friend involved to keep you motivated. • Watch your sodium. Even children should aim for a low-sodium diet,
call Georgia’s tobacco quit line at 1-877-270-STOP (7867), or contact
which can help prevent high blood pressure (remember, bad habits add
your physician for recommendations.
up over a lifetime). The U.S. Department of Agriculture states that the
• Transform your diet. The American Heart Association’s Nutrition Center (heart.org, click on Getting Healthy) provides helpful guidelines on serving sizes and what to eat for a healthy diet (And surprise! The focus isn’t on deprivation but on making smart choices.)
recommended daily limit for sodium for children ages 1 to 3 is less than 1,500 milligrams (mg), and less than 1,900 mg for children 4 to 8 years old. However, the American Heart Association recommends 1,500 mg or less of sodium for heart health (and that’s their adult recommendation). Sources: Dr. William Callaghan, heart.org
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{ healthyfamily Many also ask about the benefit of supplements for heart health. Aspirin can be beneficial in thinning the blood and improving blood flow in at-risk patients. Calcium has also been shown to reduce bad cholesterol (which transports fat molecules into the cell walls of blood vessels, versus good cholesterol, which mops up fat and brings it back to the liver to be processed, says Dr. Callaghan). And fish oil has been shown to be an anti-inflammatory and reduce triglycerides, a type of fat in your blood. Still, Dr. Callaghan emphasizes that no supplement can replace the advantages of a healthy diet and exercise. “I think following a (supplement) plan developed with your doctor is a reasonable thing,” he says. “But, it’s not a must for a healthy heart. Making lifestyle changes far outweigh supplements.” And even though it might put him out of a job, Dr. Callaghan would love to see it come to a point where no patients had heart problems. “We keep coming up with all these great treatments, but it doesn’t cure it. It’s just kind of a big Band-Aid. Real success would be to get to a point where you didn’t hardly see it because you prevented it by having a heart-healthy lifestyle starting at a very young age.”
How To Eat For adults consuming 2,000 calories a day. Note that your daily calorie requirements depend on your height, weight and activity level. And, make sure to read labels to judge serving sizes accurately!
Every Day Fruits and vegetables: At least 4.5 cups. One medium apple or two cups of raw leafy greens equals a cup. Whole grains: At least three 1-ounce servings. A slice of bread or ½ cup of brown rice equals 1 ounce. Aim for six to eight total servings of grains. Dairy: Two to three servings of low-fat or fat-free dairy. A cup of milk or one and a half ounces of cheese equals a serving.
Every week Fish: Two 3.5-ounce servings. Choose oily fish like salmon or tuna. Sweets and added sugars: Five or fewer servings. An 8-ounce cup of sugar-sweetened beverage, or ½ cup of sorbet is a serving. Nuts, legumes and seeds: About four servings. One serving is equal to 1/3 cup. Processed meats: No more than two servings a week. These include hotdogs, bacon and luncheon meats.
Meats and seafood: Two 3-ounce servings. One serving is roughly the size of a deck of cards. Fats: 2 to 3 servings. A teaspoon of margarine or a tablespoon of mayonnaise is one serving. Sodium: Less than 1,500 mg
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Sources: heart.org. ChooseMyPlate.gov
Augusta Family | February 2013 • 17
homefront }
by Mary Helen Berg
Successful Sleepovers Seven Steps To Fun, Safe Sleepovers
E
very parent knows sleepovers are not for sleeping. Sleepovers are for bonding, whispering, tickling, pillow fighting and tossing and turning until daylight. Having a sleepover can feel like the ultimate prize, a rite of passage for a child who finally feels old enough to have one. But for parents, it can feel like a chaotic, punishing marathon. If you are hosting a sleepover, communication and planning can help ensure that you stay in control so that the race to dawn goes as smoothly as possible. These seven steps will help guarantee your child’s sleepover is a pleasure for him and nearly painless for you.
Start To Finish Choose a late start and early end to the party. Usually, a sleepover can begin around 5 or 6 p.m. and leave plenty of time for pizza, games and a video. Pickup time in the morning can be as early as 9 a.m. Your guests will be up at the crack of dawn (if they slept at all) and will be ready for waffles and cinnamon rolls. Plan a simple breakfast and be firm with parents about a prompt pickup time.
Health and Safety Get emergency contact numbers and ask about food allergies. You will be responsible for someone else’s children for 12 hours or more and an overnight stay raises issues that a daytime play date doesn’t. If one of your guests has severe allergies and uses epinephrine, ask their parent how to work an EpiPen in case the child needs an injection. Tell parents in no uncertain terms that uninvited guests such as head lice or pinworms are not welcome at a party where kids may end up sharing pillows and bedding. Ask parents to be frank and discuss whether anyone has issues such as bedwetting, night terrors or sleepwalking.
House Rules You are hosting a slumber part—not a free for all. Rules that seem natural to you may be foreign to your party guests, so let them know what you expect.
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{ homefront If you are hosting a sleepover, communication and planning can help to ensure that you stay in control so that the race to dawn goes as smoothly as possible. If you plan to turn the lights and media off at a particular hour, let them know ahead of time. If you would like all food and drink to be consumed only in the kitchen, tell them before cherry soda soaks the new carpet in the living room. Talk about whether pillow fights are allowed and make sure they understand that no one goes outside the house without telling you first.
Off Limits Be clear about where the party takes place. You may not want guests wandering through the house, rifling through your work papers or experimenting with the make-up in your bathroom. Restrict your guests to the public parts of the house and let them know if you don’t want them upstairs in your bedroom. If they have access to the kitchen, tell them they may not turn on the stove or operate appliances without supervision. Serve plenty of snacks and be clear that they are not to eat other foods without permission or you may find that the gourmet olives you were hoarding have been used for target practice.
What To Pack Send an e-mail with a packing list to the parents of your guests. If you supply all the sheets and pillows, you’ll end up doing laundry for a month, so request that each guest bring their own sleeping bag and pillow. Guests should pack pajamas, a toothbrush and a “lovey,” if they have special item they like to sleep with. Finally, they should pack an extra set of clothes that they can wear the next day or use in the event of a spill or accident.
Choose Your Battle Station It’s best if you can sleep within earshot of the party. If your bedroom is across the house or up a flight of stairs, consider camping closer to the kids for the night. Sleep on the couch or in an adjoining room so you can hear if a guest has a nightmare or is struck with the flu at 2 a.m. Show the kids where you will be during the night. Knowing you are nearby will be a comfort for those who may be nervous sleeping in a strange house and serve as a warning to any rascals who want to pillow fight ‘til dawn.
Check Technology at The Door Kids of all ages now travel everywhere with their cellular phones, iPhones and iPads. Unfortunately, it’s hard to control how your guests might use their technology in the middle of the night. You don’t want to police whether kids are using their cell phones to make crank calls or take unflattering pictures of sleeping friends. Eliminate temptation and avoid hurt feelings. Make it an oldfashioned style sleepover and ask parents to keep the technology at home. Mary Helen Berg is a writer and mother of three who has survived many slumber parties.
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Augusta Family | February 2013 • 19
Party Time!
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Party Guide
Party Guide Our Guide to Party Places Throughout the CSRA By Lucy Adams
Don’t let that next special occasion slip by without a celebration. From a christening brunch to a full-on birthday bash, Augusta Family’s party guide has it covered. CSRA businesses specializing in party planning and implementation will take care of the details so you can take care of making memories.
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Party Guide Move and Groove! Adventure Crossing www.adventure-crossing.com. 706-863-3087. 4350 Wheeler Rd., Martinez. Packages start at $159.90 plus tax for the first 10 children, minimum; $13.99 each for additional party participant. Includes: • Private party room for one hour. • Pizza or hot dogs/fries. • Drinks. • Paper products and basic decorations. • Party set-up and party guide. • Indoor and outdoor entertainment activities: Go-carts for ages 5-75, midway rides, 36 holes of mini-golf or batting cages. Play inside their 6,210-square-foot Lasertron laser tag area and arcade of fun. Augusta Jewish Community Center www.augustajcc.org. 706-228-3636. 898 Weinberger Way, Evans. Rent a banquet room starting at $300 for 6+ hours, the pool for $225 for 2 hours ($75 for each additional hour) or the entire facility, including tennis courts, baseball and soccer fields and the basketball court, for $1500 for 10 hours. Pool rental and entire facility rental includes two lifeguards for up to 25 swimmers. Additional lifeguards are required for greater than 25 swimmers, at $15 per hour. Bouncy Bratz www.bouncybratz.com. 803-642-8200. 226 Eastgate Dr., Aiken. Birthday parties are their specialty. Semi-private and private parties are available. Parties are scheduled 1.5 hours apart so that multiple birthday groups are not on the floor at the same time. Prices start at $149, Monday through Thursday; $189 for Friday through Sunday. Up to 3 additional children may be added to each package for $10 each. Parent brings the cake. Includes: • Invitations. • Goody bags. • 1 ½ hours of bouncing fun. • Paper products. • Pizza, drinks & ice cream. • Private room (maximum capacity is 32 children).
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Jump City www.jumpcity.us or www.augustamoonwalks.com. 706-262-4653. 4446 Washington Rd., Suite 7, Evans. Jump city delivers the party to your backyard. Rent inflatable slides, bounce houses, obstacle courses and water slides beginning at $140, depending on the apparatus. Up the fun with Sumo suits ($155), a dunk tank ($150), a rock wall (call for quote), a popcorn machine ($50) or a cotton candy machine ($50). Tables and chairs, generators and sound systems are also available. Jumpin’ Beans Inflatables, Inc. http://jumpinbeans.tripod.com. 706-560-0594 or 803-279-6333. 1746 Knox Ave., N. Augusta. Plan a party at their inside facility or have them deliver the fun to your home. Inflatable rentals begin at $105. Indoor party prices start at $189.99 for children ages 5+. Call for or visit the Web site for details. Parent brings the cake and ice cream. Basic Party Includes: • Unlimited play. • 1 hour in the party room. • Party attendant. • Pizza and drinks. • Paper products. • Picture of the birthday child in the birthday chair. Monkey Joe’s www.monkeyjoes.com. 706-922-JUMP(5867). 368 Furys Ferry Rd., Suite 2, Martinez. Choose from a theme or standard party package accommodating up to 24 children ages 12 and under. Party prices range from $174 to $334, depending on the number of children and the day of the week. Make it a theme party for an additional fee. Additional guests are $9 each. Includes: • 2 hours in a private party suite. • Dedicated party pro. • Drinks. • Paper products. • Invitations. • Gift for the birthday child. • Pizza and ice cream can be purchased. • Bring your own cake. • Socks are required.
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Family Y of Aiken County www.thefamilyy.org. 803-349-8080 690 Medical Park Dr., Aiken Indoor parties are available on Saturdays and Sundays for children ages 2+. Younger children will enjoy the soft-play room. Children ages 5+ will want to party in the game room with X-box system, karaoke, art station and more. For a 2 hour party, members pay $125; non-members pay $175. Outdoor parties in the water park, available seasonally, include1 hour of water park play and 1 hour in the party room for 1-20 guests. For non-private parties, members pay $250 and non-members pay $300. Rent the water park for a 2-hour private party: Members pay $300; non-members pay $350. Whether celebrating indoors or out, parents supply cake, food and drinks. Every child receives a helium balloon Family Y—Wilson Branch www.thefamilyy.org. sfeist@thefamilyy.org. 706-922-9615. 3570 Wheeler Rd., Augusta. Fees for two-hour Clubhouse or Family Adventure Center Parties are $200 for members, $250 for nonmembers for up to 21 children. Additional children are $5 each. Parent supplies cake and ice cream. Clubhouse Parties with Play in the Two-Story Tree house Include: • Birthday games upon request. • Inflatable fun. • Two party assistants. • Invitations. Family Adventure Center Parties Include: • Rock-climbing wall. • Inflatable fun. • Tumbling area fun. • Two party assistants. • Invitations. Family Y—Wilson Branch Indoor Pool and Water Park www.thefamilyy.org. cpinto@thefamilyy.org. 706-922-9618. 3570 Wheeler Rd., Augusta. Fees for two-hour non-private pool parties are $200 for members, $250 for non-members. Fees for private indoor pool parties are $250 for members, $300
Party Guide for non-members. Outdoor water park parties are seasonal and with non-private party rates of $250 for members and $300 for non-members. Private parties in the water park are $300 for members and $350 for non-members. Prices are for 21 children and each additional child is $5. Parent supplies cake and ice cream. Pool and Water Park Parties Include: • Invitations. • Pool time/party time in private room. • Lifeguards. Kroc Center http://www.krocaugusta.org. 706-922-1527. 1833 Broad Street, Augusta. Party like a Kroc star in the gym or the indoor pool. Party packages start at $225 for 2 hours for up to 20 guests. Each additional guest is $5. Al la carte options for an additional charge include food, beverage, themed packages, balloons and extra space. All Parties Include: • A party master. • Party room. • T-shirt for birthday child. • 20 invitations. • Paper products. • Lemonade. • Cake or cupcakes. • Two 4x6 pictures. Marshall Family Y www.thefamilyy.org. 706-364-3269. 1202 Town Park Lane, Evans. Children ages 3-12 can have a birthday party at the Marshall Family Y. Younger kids will enjoy the softplay room. Older kids will like the Kids Club House stocked with video games and a foosball table. Members pay $100 for 2 hours of fun with 1-25 guests. Non-members pay $125. A $25 deposit holds the party date. Parents supply cake, food and games if desired.
706-405-4577. Let them bring the party to you with many inflatables to choose from. Call for party information and pricing.
Horse Around! Hilltop Riding Stables www.fortgordon.com. 706-791-4864. N. Range Rd., Building 508, Fort Gordon. Party fees are $200-sponsored or $225-unsponsored. Available party times are 10 a.m.-noon or 2-4 p.m. Reservations must be made in advance. Parent provides cake, food and drinks. Includes: • Four ponies on a carousel for one hour (for ages 6 and under) or four one-hour guided trail rides (for ages 7 and up). Extra horses available for $23 each. Extra ponies available for $11 each. • Tablecloths. • Balloons and streamers. • Additional horses are available for additional fees. • Party room. • Picnic areas, some with grills. Graystone Ranch and Wildlife Education Center http://www.graystoneranch.com/. 706-360-0808. 1017 McManus Road, Hephzibah. My First Pony Parties are a fantastic introduction to horsemanship for children up to age 10. Larger ponies and horses are also available. The Graystone animal experts will assist children in riding saddled ponies and horses. Other saddled animals are also available. $225 for one hour.
Make and Create!
Parties Include: • Two attendants to help set up, clean up and supervise. •A separate room for food, presents and cake. •A t-shirt for the birthday child.
Build-A-Bear Workshop www.buildabear.com. 706-736-0895. Augusta Mall, 3450 Wrightsboro Rd. Each guest makes his or her own stuffed animal friend. Party pricing starts at $10 per guest. Six guest minimum. The party leader makes sure kids have fun while staying within your pre-set budget. Parties last 1-1½ hours.
Space Walk of Augusta www.herecomesfun.com. spacewalkaga@herecomesfun.com.
Includes: • A party leader. • Party photo.
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• Gift for guest of honor. • Party favor for each guest. • A virtual party room for your Cub Condo® house at buildabearville.com, complete with beary special gifts to share with friends. • Printable invitations and thank you cards. Kroc Center http://www.krocaugusta.org. 706-922-1527. 1833 Broad Street, Augusta. Party like a Kroc star cooking up goodies in the kitchen (ages 12+) or creating works of art (ages 6+). At Master Chef parties, kids can choose to prepare one of several tasty menus. At a Little Da Vinci party, the birthday child and guests can create a masterpiece on canvas, paint a piece of pottery, fashion jewelry or sculpt with clay. Party packages start at $225 for 2 hours for up to 20 guests. Each additional guest is $5. Al la carte options for an additional charge include food, beverage, themed packages, balloons and extra space. All Parties Include: • A party master. • T-shirt for birthday child. • 20 invitations. • Paper products. • Lemonade. • Cake or cupcakes. • Two 4x6 pictures. Neapolitan Cupcake & Gift Shoppe http://neapolitangifts.com. 706-814-8959 (Augusta) or 803-514-4240 (Aiken). 106 Pleasant Home Rd., Le Pavilion Shopping Center, Augusta. 126 Laurens St. NW, Aiken. Birthday parties are scheduled on Sundays for children turning 6 or older. Guests decorate their own cupcakes and play games. Parties last 60-90 minutes for a minimum of 6 children at $30 per child. Party Includes: • Cupcake-themed invitations. • Jumbo cupcake—one per child. • Frosting, decorating supplies and garnishes. • Caprisun or chocolate milk for each guest. • Face painting and balloons. • Two themed games facilitated by NCS. • One “smash cake” birthday cupcake for the birthday child. • Party favor for each child.
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Party Guide Get in the Game! Skateland of Augusta http://www.skatelandofaugusta.com/Parties.htm. 706-798-4048. 2451 Windsor Spring Rd., Augusta. They take care of everything but the cake, with several party packages from which to choose. Basic party includes ($125): • 10 children, $8 each additional child. • Ice cream cup for each child. • Unlimited soda. • Birthday child receives a t-shirt, speed skate rental, free pass for future visit. • Free skate rentals for guests. • Party table area, paper goods, table cloth and balloons. 50 minutes in party area. • Invitations. • Dedicated party hostess. • Parents of birthday child skate free. Hotdog party includes ($140): • 10 children, $9.50 each additional child. • Everything in basic party plus hotdog and small bag of chips for each guest. Pizza Party includes ($150): • 10 children, $8 each additional child. • Everything in basic party plus two large single topping pizzas. Super Duper Party ($250): • 10 children, $11 each additional child. • Everything in the basic party plus two large single topping pizzas. • 10 glow products. • One pair of GTX-500 speed skates for the birthday child. AMF Masters Lanes Bowling Center www.amf.com/masterslanes. 706-733-3624. 1810 Gordon Hwy., Augusta. From food to activities, they take care of everything for you. Bumper bowling for younger children and Xtreme bowling for older kids. Minimum of 8 children. Call for pricing. Parents bring cake. Includes: • Food and drinks. • Goodie bags. • Invitations. • Bowling balls and shoes. • Some packages include souvenir bowling pin for guests to sign for the birthday child.
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Augusta Aquatics Center http://www.augustaga.gov. 706-261-0424. 3157 Damascus Rd., Augusta. Parties are held on Saturdays from 10 a.m.noon. $150 fee includes admission for up to 20 swimmers.
The “coolest” party place in town. Select from Augusta Ice Sports Center’s party packages or design your own. The Bronze Package is $95 for 10 guests. The Silver Package is $165 for 20 guests. The Gold Package is $245 for 30 guests. Add $10 for each additional guest. Parties can be scheduled during any public session. Parents bring cake, ice cream and decorations.
Includes: • Party room. • Beverages. • Paper products. • Goodie bags. • Display board message for birthday child.
Packages Include: • Party room(s). • Admission and skate rental. • Choice of hot dogs or pizza with soft drink. • Paper products.
Premiere Martial Arts www.hensleypma.com 803-640-8443. 401 West Martintown Rd., North Augusta. Be a black belt for the day. Parties start at $99 (plus $25 for the teacher) for the basic option and $299 for the Premierre party option.
Augusta RiverHawks www.augustariverhawks.com. 601 7th Street, Augusta. 706-993-2645. Bring out a group of 10 or more to a RiverHawks game and save. Let them custom-design a birthday party for your hockey lover.
Includes: • 30 minutes martial arts class. • Games. • Martial Arts instructor (plus a party host for the Premiere party). • Premiere party includes decorations, cake, pizza, drinks and cleanup.
Group Benefits Include: • Block seating. • Discounted tickets. • PA welcome during the game. • Food, merchandise and party area options.
Augusta GreenJackets www.greenjacketsbaseball.com. 706-922-9467. 78 Milledge Rd., Augusta. Watch the game and celebrate together. $16 per person for general admission and $17 per person for reserved seating. Add $1 per guest on all fireworks nights. Season starts in mid-April. Includes: • Tickets to a scheduled game. • Augusta GreenJackets Hats. • Food vouchers (good for hot dog, popcorn and soda). • Special Gift for the birthday child from the Augusta GreenJackets. • Free Admission to the Fun Zone. • Birthday Welcome over the PA system and Scoreboard. • Invitations to invite all your friends to the game! Augusta Ice Sports Center www.augustaicesports.com. 706-955-5946. 1249 Augusta West Pkwy, Augusta.
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Brunwsick National Lanes www.bowlbrunswick.com. 706-860-1668. 3067 Washington Rd., Augusta. Bowling, video games and pizza in a smoke-free environment. Choose either the Party Kidz package for $14.99 per person or the Mega Party Kidz package for $18.99 per person. Minimum group size is 5 for 2 hours of fun. Both Parties Include: • Party attendant. • Shoes and balls. • Pizza and soft drinks. • Balloon bouquet. • Paper goods. • Bowling pin sipper bottle for the birthday child. Mega Party Kidz Package Also Includes: • Goody bags. • $3 in game tokens for each child. • A glow necklace for each child. • Guests sign a bowling pin for the birthday child to keep.
Party Guide Gymnastics Gold www.gymnasticsgold.com. 706-650-2111. 124 Cedar Ln., Augusta. Kids enjoy age appropriate games using a variety of gymnastics equipment. Party packages for up to 20 children are $150 for members, $175 for non-members. Additional fees for additional children. Parties are held Friday nights and Saturdays. Two trained instructors supervise. Make reservations at least two weeks in advance. Includes: • Party area. • Drinks. • Balloons. • Invitations. • T-shirt for the birthday child. • Cleanup. Hayden’s International Gymnastics www.haydensgym.com. 706-868-0608. 4300 Evans to Lock Rd., Evans. The Hayden’s birthday experience for up to 10 children begins with games in the gym, followed by an obstacle course and time on the trampoline and in the pit. Trained coaches supervise. Parties last 90 minutes for $250. Additional half hour of gym time can be scheduled for $50. Parent supplies food and cake. Pay $5 for each additional guest. Includes: • Professional instructors. • Set up and clean up. • Invitations. • Table decorations. • Goody bags. • Balloon for each guest. • Special gift for birthday child. Putt-Putt Fun Center http://puttputt.com. 706-868-0083. 3763 Martinez Blvd., Martinez. Welcome to the party zone. Party package #1 costs $9.99 per person, 10 person minimum. Party package #2 offers unlimited fun for $14.99 per person. Both Packages Include • Party room. • Cake or Dippin’ Dots. (Add $15 and have both) • One attraction. • Paper products. • Invitations. • Gift for the birthday child.
• Game tokens. • Group photo. • A trained party captain • Private party room. Red Wing Rollerway www.redwingrollerway.net. 706-860-1548. 3065 Washington Rd., Augusta. Open session parties start at $195 for up to 10 guests and two-hour private parties are $325 for up to 20 guests. The birthday child participates for free in both packages and additional guests are $7 each. Includes: • DJ. • Games. • Skates. • Invitations. • Balloons. • Soft drink, hot dogs, chips and cake. • Paper products. • T-shirt for birthday child. Southern Tang Soo Do Martial Arts Studio www.stsdkarate.com. 706-793-6603. 2007 Tabacco Rd., Augusta. Two-hour parties cost $225 for up to 12 children. Additional children are $8.50 each. Parents are welcome to bring food and snacks. A CD with party pictures is available for $15.00. Includes: • Karate-themed invitations and thank you notes. • Karate uniform for the birthday child. • Martial arts headbands for each child. • A balloon for each child. • Party tables with karate theme. • Paper products. • Cake. • Goodie bags with VIP pass for a free karate class for each participating child.
Eats and Treats! Stevi B’s http://www.stevibs.com. 706-863-2021. 212 Bobby Jones Expressway, Augusta. The perfect combination of pizza, games and fun. Three party packages to choose from starting at $5.99 per child, with an 8 child minimum.
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All Parties Include: • All-you-can-eat pizza buffet. • All-you-can-eat salad bar. • All-you-can-eat dessert pizza. • Drinks with unlimited refills. • Balloons on the table. • Game tokens for each child. Chuck E Cheese http://www.chuckecheese.com. 706-737-4557. 3435 Wrightsboro Rd., Augusta. Plan a birthday party with pizza and games or organize your own walk-in party without reserving a party package. On-line party reservation is available as well as e-vites. Choose from the Star package for $11.99 per child, the Super Star package for $16.99 per child or the Mega Super Star package for $21.99 per child. Minimum of 4 children. All Packages Include: • Two hours of reserved table space. • Ticket Blaster experience for the birthday child. • Inflatable crown for the birthday child. • Star recognition in the show. • Game tokens for each child. • Free refills on drinks. • Pizza. • Party host or hostess. • Festive tablecloth and plates. Bruster’s Real Ice Cream http://realicecream.com. 1115 Agerton Lane, Augusta, 706-731-9929. 516 North Belair Road, Evans, 706-210-5160. Outdoor parties during store hours at Bruster’s are $125 for up to 20 people (2 hours). Please inquire about prices for ice cream catering for offsite parties. Packages available for Augusta and Evans locations only. Includes: • Bruster’s ice cream cake. • Nathan’s Famous hot dogs, chips and lemonade. • Balloons. • Paper products • Set-up and cleanup • A birthday message on the reader board. Dippin’ Dots http://www.dippindots.com. 706-364-3476. 3328 Washington Rd., Augusta. What kid isn’t crazy about hotdogs and ice cream? Schedule a party for 10 or more guests, $5.50 per person. Parent can supply cake or order a Dippin’ Dots
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Party Guide cake for an additional charge. They will even open to host parties before regular store hours upon request. Take home party packs, ranging in price from $55-$110, are available by pre-order. Call for details. Parties Include: • Hotdog, chips, drink and small Dippin’ Dots for each child. • Party favors. • Reserved table area. • Glitter tattoos available for an additional charge. The Pink Dipper 803-279-4100. 501 Georgia Ave., North Augusta. Rent their party room by the hour ($25).
Build Their Brains! Bricks 4 Kidz http://www.bricks4kidz.com. 706-513-5789. Two hours of non-stop fun with Lego® blocks. Even kids under age 5 will love a Bricks 4 Kidz party. The basic birthday package is $170 for 10 children plus the birthday child. Al la carte add-ons, such as pizza, goody bags and mini-figure factory, available for additional charge. Parents bring the cake. Parties Include: • Party host. • 10 invitations. • 10 thank you cards. • Lots of games & challenges. • Free-play time. • Paper products. • Bricks 4 Kidz® t-shirt for birthday child. • Drinks. EdVenture Children’s Museum www. edventure.org. 803-400-1151 211. Gervais St., Columbia Throw Eddie’s Big Birthday Bash for $180 for members, $195 for non-members for 15 guests (2 hours). Additional guests are $13 each. All adults are admitted for no additional charge. Parent brings cake and ice cream and other food. Party add-ons available for additional charge. Includes: • Balloon bouquet. • Guided museum exploration. • Party room.
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• Special birthday ceremony in front of Eddie®. • Professional “Birthday Buddy.” • All-day admission for party guests. • Invitations. • Decorations. • Paper products. • T-shirt for birthday child. • Bring food, cake and ice cream.
Adventures Outside! Augusta Canal Interpretive Center www.augustacanal.com. 706-823-0440, ext. 2. 1405 Greene St., Augusta. Charter a Petersburg boat for up to 49 guests for $300 per boat for one hour, $500 for a three-hour trip to the Headgates and back. Bring refreshments of your choice. You also can book your party at the Canal’s Interpretive Center. Kackleberry Farm www.kackleberryfarm.com. 407-494-0185. 1025 Verdree Rd., Louisville, Ga. Egg-ceptional fun at Kackleberry Farm. Tent rental is $30.00 for two hours. Party guests receive a discounted price of $9.00 a person (cannot use coupon). Guest of honor receives a Kackleberry Kool Kit of fun stuff ! Other party options are available depending on the season. They’ll even bring their outdoor mobile laser tag party to your location. Call or visit their Web site for more information. Steed’s Dairy http://www.steedsdairy.com 706-855-2948. 4635 Wrightsboro Rd., Grovetown. Birthday party activities on the farm include petting zoo, jumping pillow, giant tube slide, corn kernel pit, tube swings, rubber duckie races and more. The pavilion rents for $100. Cost per person is $4 except during corn maze season when it is $6 per person. Parent brings cake, ice cream and other party supplies. Phinizy Swamp Nature Park http://naturalsciencesacademy.org/PhinizySwamp.htm. 706-828-2109. Off Doug Barnard Pkwy. The Pfizer Pavilion is a covered picnic area that can be reserved for a donation of $100 with a $50 refundable deposit. The Pavilion has electricity and nine eight-foot tables with seating for 60-70 guests.
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Reserve a private tour for an additional fee as part of your party of 10+ guests. Call ahead to reserve the Pavilion or a tour. Reed Creek Park and Wetland Interpretive Center www.ReedCreekPark.com. 706-210-4027. 3820 Park Lane, Martinez. Birthday parties for children ages 5 and up take the party to nature and the great outdoors with guided activities. Parties last 90 minutes. Cost for members is $150 for 10 children plus $6 for each additional child. Cost for non-members is $200 for 10 children plus $7 for each additional child. There is a 14 child maximum. Full payment must be received two weeks in advance of the party date. Includes: • Nature games and activities. • Paper products. • Decorations. • Cake and drinks. • Invitations. • Balloons. • Goody bags. • T-shirt and Reed Creek frog mascot for the birthday child. The Family Y— Camp Lakeside sfeist@thefamilyy.org. Lake Thurmond. 1238 Dogwood Dr., Lincolnton. Packages include options like Aqua-Adventure (including swimming, canoeing, and kayaking—if over 10 years old), Nature Exploration (hikes, campfires, archery) or a Combo Package. E-mail for more information. Package may include: • Three hours of party time for 20 party participants. • One hour of swimming/boating time. • Hiking, games, archery, sports, nature programs and more. Roll That Clip! Regal Cinemas Augusta www.regmovies.com. 706-667-9713. 1144 Agerton Lane, Augusta. Make your birthday child a “Star For A Day” with their own party at the movies. $17.50 per child for a regular movie. $21.50 per child for a 3-D movie.
Party Guide $24 per child for an IMAX movie. Prices are for children ages 3-11. Adults must pay for their own admission. The party room may be rented for an additional $50 for one hour either before or after the movie. Party room rental includes paper products and beverages. Movie Party Includes: • Admission. • Reserved seating. • $2 of game tokens. • Popcorn, drink and fruit snacks. • Tour of projection booth.
Go High Tech! The Game Dudes http://www.thegamedudes.com/ 855-301-3833 The Game Dudes bring their 24-foot gaming vehicle to the party for two full hours of fun. It’s a 12-seat, air-conditioned indoor gaming theater. The exterior converts to accommodate 8 additional players. For an additional charge, they will set up an inflatable slide or get out the laser tag gear. Rolling Video Games 706-830-4389. http://RollingVideoGames.com. rvgaugusta@aol.com. They set up, entertain and clean up! Packages start at $199 for a one-hour party with the Game Coach. A two-hour party with the Game Coach, 30 full color invitations and cake is $299 and a two-hour party with the Game Coach MondayThursday is $225. Includes: • A Game Coach who serves as an on-site tech that assists with playing the games and encourages fun and balanced play for guests. • Game Truck and trailer come rain or shine. A fairly level parking area is needed. • Xbox 360 stations, Wii stations and PS3stations allow 16 gamers to game at once or separately. • Vibration-rocking stadium seating allows more observers and friends. • Tons of game choices available, including the newest released titles.
• A flashing, glowing power necklace medallion for the guest(s) of honor.
Bring in the Clowns (and other entertainment)!
Tara Scheyer and the Mud Puppy Band http://www.tarascheyer.com/. tarascheyer@aol.com. 706-736-9931. Tara Scheyer performs a solo, interactive concert for your birthday child and guests. All she needs is a place to plug in her PA system and a rain plan if the party is outside. She brings shakers, bells and tambourines for kids to use during the concert and sings “Happy Birthday” for the child of honor to blow out the candles. The birthday child also receives a Mud Puppy Band t-shirt and all children receive Mud Puppy Band tattoos. $150 for a 30-minute concert. Tara books birthday concerts for summer dates. Children Parties Go LIVE http://www.partiesgolive.com. 706-394-7782. Specializing in children’s birthday parties, they bring the fun to your chosen location. Characters, games, music, face painting and more liven up the party. Pricing starts at $110. Call or visit the web site for party details. Vintage Oolie 1121 Broad Street. 706-724-4508. Let mom or dad pose as a friendly character surprise party guest. Costumes include a kitty, Teddy bears, bunny rabbits, puppy dogs and more. Rentals start at $50 with a $50 security deposit. Uncle Sam’s Magic Show Sam Harden, Jr. http://www.unclesamsmagicshow.com/. 706-631-6596. 1909 Ohio Ave., Augusta. Enjoy good clean fun and magic performed by Uncle Sam. He mixes magic with storytelling to entertain his audience and is an expert balloon twister, as well. Pricing starts at $125. Call for details.
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Pammy the Clown http://www.milesofsmilespro.com/. 706-868-9057. P.O. Box 873, Grovetown. Pammy has several party packages from which to choose. Entertainment is appropriate for children ages 2-8 and range in price from $115-$195. Depending on the party package selected, Pammy will perform face painting, balloon sculpture, interactive musical fun and magic. All children receive stickers and coloring pages and the birthday child gets to be the star of the party. Magic With a Twist http://www.magicwithatwist.com. 706-855-9177. 4128 Fair Oaks Rd., Martinez. Plan your child’s party to include a visit from Magic Mike or Lollipop the Clown. Little girls will enjoy a Fairy Princess Party. Magic With a Twist offers several party packages from which to choose. Add to the fun with an inflatable rental, interactive game rental or any of their extras, like a cotton candy machine, face painting, balloon twisting or a bubble machine. The Nose Caricature Artist http://www.the-nose.com/. 1-888-234-7158. Let a professional artist preserve party memories for the child of honor and the guests. Two caricature artists, Preston and Tony, serve the Augusta area. Their rates start at $150 per hour with a 3-hour minimum. Graystone Ranch and Wildlife Education Center http://www.graystoneranch.com/. 706-360-0808. 1017 McManus Road, Hephzibah. The Graystone Ranch menagerie is sure to spark the party. The animal experts will bring the Graystone Ranch Ark, traveling petting zoo (Ark and petting zoo $385 for two hours; petting zoo alone is $275-$725, depending on length of time and types of animals), Rollin’ Reptile and Serpentarium ($385 for two hours), Gladiator and Tiger Show ($385 for two hours) or exotic carousel ($525 for two hours) to your child’s next party. Party information subject to change. This Party Guide will be archived at www.augustafamily.com.
Augusta Family | February 2013 • 27
Fun Time!
28 • Augusta Family | February 2013
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led by
led by
Saturday, May 11, 2013 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Doubletree Hotel Perimeter Parkway
An event for pregnant moms and their guests featuring EDUCATION, ENTERTAINMENT and EVERYTHING BABY For more information or interest in vendor space, please call Safe Kids East Central at 706-721-7606
Sponsored by
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by Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D
1. Spend Time Together If the only together time you get with your spouse happens after the kids go to bed, they don’t see your interactions. Take an interest in your spouse’s hobby even if it isn’t your idea of fun. Shovel the driveway or go grocery shopping as a team. Kids need to see parents collaborate, negotiate and just hang out together.
2. Listen Set aside distractions when your spouse wants to talk. “Listening with an open heart is one of the greatest gifts we can give to our spouses and ourselves,” says Dr. Lerner. Let go of the need to be right. Love means truly hearing your partner’s position even when it hurts.
3. Picture It
The Look of Love 12 Ways To Show Kids What Grown-Up Love Looks Like
M
y 4-year-old was crestfallen when I told him we can’t get married. “I’m already married to Daddy,” I explained. “Really?” he whined, with a sad look on his small, sweet face. “Yes, really,” I said. Although I tried to be gentle, his disappointment was obvious. Unrequited romance is (apparently) difficult at any age. Since our marriage predates our children, I guess it isn’t salient to them. My son’s misunderstanding made me think: maybe my husband and I don’t do enough to show our love for each other. Most days, we take turns doing household chores and childcare tasks. Sometimes we argue. In front of the kids, we’re more like coworkers than sweethearts. Parents’ words and actions teach kids how to
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show interest and express love, and what it means to be in a committed relationship. If your kids’ love lessons come from Hollywood movies and YouTube videos, you might want to make your displays of affection more public. Yes, your 6-year-old might sing “Mommy and Daddy sitting in a tree, k-i-s-s-in-g!” and your tween will roll her eyes. Ignore kids’ giggles and feigned disgust. These lessons are too important to skip. “Keeping things simple is often the way to teach the most complicated things,” says Harriet Lerner, Ph.D., clinical psychologist and author of Marriage Rules: A Manual for the Married and the Coupled Up. Read on for twelve tried-and-true ways to refresh your relationship and show kids what real love looks like.
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When was the last time you and your spouse were photographed without the kids? Display images of your wedding and fun times you’ve shared as a pair to remind kids you are a couple, not just co-parents. Sneak into the photo booth at the mall if that’s your only opportunity. Get a kissy photo while you’re at it.
4. Take Note Write a love note to your spouse and put it near his seat at the dining room table or on the kitchen counter near his car keys. Express what you love about him in 20 words or less. Sign it “XOXO.” Let your kids see you gush.
5. Say “I Love You” You love your partner and he knows it. But how often do you say those three little words? Verbal affirmations build reserves of good will. Studies by marriage researcher John Gottman, Ph.D., show happy couples have a 5:1 ratio of positive to negative interactions. Small exchanges add up to big—and long-lasting—love.
{ timeout 6. Give Gifts Don’t wait until your partner’s birthday to give tokens of affection. And don’t reserve flowers or backrubs for “I’m-so-sorry” situations. A new travel mug or sweet treat is a welcome gesture any day of the year. Gifts are more meaningful when they’re unexpected.
7. Serve Gladly Pick up the dry cleaning or bring your spouse coffee in bed. Helpful actions are daily ways to show we care. Point out acts of service your partner does for you so the kids know kindness flows both ways.
8. Hold Hands Physical affection doesn’t have to be R-rated. Give your beloved a hug, and hold hands in the car or while walking at the mall. Kiss hello, goodbye and goodnight. Touch is a powerful way to stay connected. Going public with your display proves sex isn’t the only way to embody affection. Take that, Hollywood!
9. Make Compliments You praise your children when they achieve important goals or act like civilized creatures during dinner. Give your spouse some sugar, too. “Surprise your partner with a compliment at the very moment he’s expecting to hear a criticism,” urges Dr. Lerner. Doing so increases your ability to have productive, healthy exchanges.
10. Apologize Respond to disagreements or mistakes with a genuine apology. “That can go a long way toward restoring a sense of connection and well-being in the relationship,” says Dr. Lerner. In addition, “a willingness to apologize is often contagious.” Show maturity by accepting responsibility.
11. Open Up Remember the conversations you had with your partner before you had kids? Spend an hour a week over coffee or cocktails just dishing about what’s going on in your world. Make a commitment: no talk of chores, finances or parenting logistics during this dialog.
12. Be Grateful Thank your spouse for sharing the last piece of chocolate cake, for putting gas in the car and for letting you vent about your mother. Acknowledging ways your partner enriches your life tunes you in to what’s good in your marriage and makes love grow. Showing your love through simple, everyday actions teaches kids skills they will need to build healthy romantic relationships someday. It will also rev up romance. What are you waiting for? Give the kids something to talk about. Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D., is a personality psychologist and mom who shares psychology lessons for real life at heidiluedtke.com.
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by Lucy Adams
Photo courtesy of STAR Riding
inspirationstation}
Brett Holtzclaw, right, has found a sense of independence through STAR Riding. Here, he is pictured with STAR volunteer Scott McMaster.
Riding High in the Saddle
I
STAR Riding’s Equine-Assisted Therapy Brings Independence, Recreation To Disabled
t’s a crisp, sunny Saturday morning at Cathy and Tommy Coward’s Hopeland Farm in Aiken. Excitement and anticipation are in the air as horses are led from their paddocks and saddled. Students arrive for their riding class, and Brett Holtzclaw, age 21, is among them. One by one, each horse enters the mounting ramp and a rider is helped onto its back. The STAR Riding arena, generously installed by the Cowards, awaits. Holtzclaw has cerebral palsy, a congenital disability noted by loss or impairment of body movement, muscle control, coordination, muscle tone, posture and balance. What’s really important about Holtzclaw, however, is that he is an experienced equestrian. With 14 years of STAR Riding under his belt, he confidently encourages newer students. “I
consider myself a mentor for kids who haven’t been riding that long,” he explains.” I help Ms. Kim by showing the kids how to do the different skills.” STAR Riding, or Special Therapeutic and Recreational Riding, provides equine-assisted therapy for people ages 3-60 who have disabilities. Equineassisted therapy relies on the natural movement of the horse, appropriate challenges while mounted and the unique relationship between horse and rider to reach goals for physical, emotional, social and cognitive improvements. Kerri Creamer, Program Coordinator, explains, “Sitting astride a horse at the walk, a rider uses most of the same muscles as he or she would walking on his or her own two legs. The movement helps strengthen trunk and back muscles, resulting in
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better posture. Better posture enables a student to breathe more deeply, which improves speech.” Students also practice communication and cognitive skills as they work through sets of directions given by the instructor, learn to command their horses and tell volunteers who assist where they want to go and when to stop. Holtzclaw appreciates the benefits of riding a horse. “It helps me get stronger, because I have to sit up straight and reach for things like the rings on the poles. It stretches my legs just sitting on the horse,” he says. What’s probably even more meaningful to participants, however, is that it’s a recreational activity in which they can achieve and have fun. “I also really like the part where we get to trot,” adds Holtzclaw.
{ inspirationstation The people, the horses, the passion are what STAR Riding is all about. Special Program, Special People Losing one’s heart in the dark, pooling eyes of an 1,100-pound animal and feeling that lurch in the gut that resembles nothing short of primal passion stirs a desire to give others the chance to be shaken by that sensation, too. In 1996, Alan Corey, a polo player who relocated to Aiken from New York, established STAR Riding with his colleague Steve Groat and with the help of Ralph Courtney, director of Aiken County TriDevelopment. Corey’s son, like Holtzclaw, has cerebral palsey and had participated in a similar program in New York. Aiken, being a premier center of the equine world, is the ideal location for STAR. STAR Riding has grown to accommodate 15 students who each attend one of 6 weekly classes. Two part-time employees, Kerri Creamer, program coordinator, and Kim Davies, an instructor certified by the Professional Association of Therapeutic Horsemanship International (PATH Intl’), anchor the program, but an army of volunteers, landowners and horse owners keep it running.
Funding the Cause The community demonstrates its overwhelming support for STAR through the organization’s annual fundraisers. An oyster roast in the fall, hosted by Kathy and Ivan Lewis at their Aiken farm, Black Forest Equestrian Center, is the primary fundraiser and features barbcue, bluegrass music, a silent auction and a 50/50 raffle in addition to oysters. Founder Steve Groat, who remains on the board of directors, and his family initiated and still orchestrate the two-day bluegrass festival fundraiser every May. Though STAR students pay a minimal fee for classes, the operating budget is mostly derived from fundraisers and donations. STAR receives no state or federal monies. “We rely on the Aiken and Augusta community to keep us going,” says Creamer, “and we are extremely grateful to all the generous people who donate funds and services.”
Volunteers Are Essential Creamer also recognizes the time invested by so many to enable STAR Riding to continue offering classes to its clients. Volunteers not only assist
with administrative tasks and fundraisers, but they also share their passion for horses with students. For many students, three volunteers are required to ensure success and safety. Two volunteers perform duties as side walkers, flanking the rider on each side of the horse, and a third volunteer acts as a horse leader to help the rider give it directions. “The volunteers are my partners,” says Holtzclaw, “we are sort of like a team.” In fact, their willingness to come assist him has inspired Holtzclaw to pay it forward. “I am volunteering a few mornings a week at the Family Y in North Augusta. I enjoy greeting and talking to people as they come in for their workouts.”
The Right Horses for the Job Obviously the four horses used for equine-assisted therapy classes are an integral part of STAR, as well. Horses and ponies appropriate to the job are taken on a free-lease basis. They are vetted by size, body type, age, movement, health and disposition. If a horse passes the initial tests it is brought to the farm for a trial period. Once it gets comfortable, a volunteer rides it. Creamer says, “The volunteer wiggles, bounces, cries, hollers, anything a student might do. We know if the horse tolerates that he’s ready to be a STAR horse.” Since Holtzclaw is a veteran rider, Creamer and Davies also seek his advice as their assistant horse trainer. The people, the horses, the passion are what STAR Riding is all about. “It’s very rewarding to see students’ progress and to know how much they enjoy riding,” says Creamer. Sitting in the saddle marginalizes any physical or cognitive limitations, making them mere asides to the experience. Holtzclaw says it better than anyone, expressing how much he and his fellow equestrians value their time on a horse: “STAR has been one of the best programs I have been involved in. I have made many new friends and really enjoy the opportunity to work with new kids. In fact, I think it is one of the best ways to spend my Saturday mornings.” Lucy Adams is a freelance writer and the author of Tuck Your Skirt in Your Panties and Run. She lives in Thomson, GA with her husband and their four children. Contact Lucy at lucybgoosey@aol.com
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calendar February 2013
Fully Charged Be a part of circus history as The Greatest Show On Earth harnesses the energy of the audience to power the performers. Witness superhuman stunts so close you can feel it! Ringling Bros. transforms energy into megawatts of thrills and fun for Children of All Ages at Fully Charged, Gold Edition! The action at Ringling Bros. Presents Fully Charged begins an
hour before show time at the All-Access Pre-Show Party—free to all ticket holders, and includes an exclusive backstage experience and up-close look at the most exotic animal menagerie. February 7 at 7 p.m., February 8 at 10:30 a.m. and 7 p.m., February 9 at 11 a.m., 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. and February 10 at 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. Doors open one hour before the show.
Visit www.augustaentertainmentcomplex.com for more details.
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calendar Special Events Through February 24. Snowville! Pack your mittens for a frosty, fun-filled trip to Snowville. This popular seasonal exhibit is back and cooler than ever! Head to the Museum on Tuesday, February 12, for Family Night featuring $1 admission from 5-8 p.m. EdVenture Children’s Museum, Columbia. February 1-3. Antiques in the Heart of Aiken. Specialized dealers from across the nation showcase and sell fine antiques. Experts will also be available to evaluate and provide free estimates of your broken or damaged treasures. Aiken Center for the Arts. 803-641-9094. February 2. Preschool/Mom’s Morning Out Fair. MOMS Club International, Evans Chapter, will host this third annual fair in which representatives from area preschools and mother’s morning out programs will be on hand to answer questions and distribute information to parents. Free. 10 a.m.noon in Augusta Christian School’s Gymnasium, Martinez. E-mail Evans_moms@yahoo.com for more information. February 2. So You Wanna Be a Zookeeper? Middle and high school students will be given an inside look at zookeeping during this interactive program— sponsored by the Riverbanks Chapter of the American Association of Zoo Keepers. Participants will have the opportunity to explore behind-the-scenes as well as take part in a panel discussion with members of Riverbanks’ animal care staff. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Register online at www.riverbanks.org. February 2. Lucy Craft Laney Heritage Gala. Annual gala to benefit the preservation of the Lucy Craft Laney Museum and its exciting history and art programming. 6-10 p.m. Augusta Marriott at the Convention Center. 706-724-3576. February 5. National Pancake Day. IHOP is giving away free pancakes in an effort to raise money for the Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals’ 30th anniversary. Guests are encouraged to make a voluntary contribution to the local Children’s Miracle Network Hospital or other local charities. 7 a.m.10 p.m. at local IHOP restaurants. February 9. Cardio on the Canal. Family event from University Health Care Foundation including a one-mile fun run and walk, Catch the Cardiologist contest, performance by Tara Scheyer, winners from the heart art contest, Cooking With Kim expo, vendors and crafts. 9 a.m. The Kroc Center. 706-667-0030. February 16. Father-Daughter Dance at the Family Y of Augusta South. Treat your daughter to quality time with the first man she will love— her dad. The evening will include refreshments, DJ and portraits. Registration required and can
be made at any Family Y location or online at www.thefamilyy.org. February 26. Linda Copeland. The author speaks about her book Legends in the Garden, which introduces 46 people and places associated with popular garden plants. Reservations required. 10 a.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4700.
at 8:30 a.m. every day. Confederate Memorial Park. 1210 Powell Pond Rd. (Exit 18, I-20). Visit www.battleofaiken.org for daily schedules and ticket information.
Augusta Museum of History 560 Reynolds St. 706-722-8454. www.augustamuseum.org.
History and Science Events February 2, 9, 16 & 23. Follow the Drinking Gourd. Learn how slaves used astronomy and song to escape the bondage of slavery and travel along the Underground Railroad to freedom. Hear how the words of the song “Follow the Drinking Gourd” provided clues to help slaves and then follow one family on its treacherous journey to Canada. DuPont Planitarium, University of South Carolina Aiken, 471 University Parkway, Aiken. Make reservations by calling 803-641-3654. February 8-9. Historic Augusta’s Old House Fair. Provides information on rehabilitating and maintaining older homes. Friday evening keynote speaker reception. Feb. 8, 6-8 p.m. Feb. 9, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-724-0436. February 22-24. Battle of Aiken. See what life was like for a Civil War soldier during the 18th annual reenactment of the Battle of Aiken. Learn about the difficult living conditions for the soldiers of 1865. Other living history exhibits, period dancing and music round out the event. Gates open
Rick Johnson at EDS and Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church Best-selling author Rick Johnson will offer information about enriching your marriage and raising children of character at this special two-day event. February 5. Speaking Your Man’s Language. 8:30 a.m. in the Church of the Good Shepherd Parish Hall. February 5. Raising Kids of Character. 6:30 p.m. in the Church of the Good Shepherd Parish Hall. February 6. Becoming Your Spouse’s Better Half. 6:30 p.m. in the Reid Memorial Presbyterian Church Congregational Life Center. To purchase tickets or register for free childcare at the evening sessions call 706-7332275 or e-mail jweigle@reidchurchaugusta. org. Registration for childcare is required before January 31. Tickets will also be available at the door.
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February 6. Brown Bag History Talk—Architecture of the South: Form and Function with Erick Montgomery. Led by the executive director of Historic Augusta. Bring a lunch, beverages provided. Refreshments are served at 11:30 a.m. Lecture runs from 12:30-1 p.m. Reservations not required. February 9. Voices of the Past—The Other Tubmans. Noon, 12:30 and 1:30 p.m. in the AMH Theater February 10. Tangled Threads. Quilting demonstration. 1-4 p.m. February 16. Voices of the Past—A Petersburg Boat Pilot. 11:30 a.m., 12:30 & 1:30 p.m. in the AMH Theater.
Reed Creek Nature Park and Interpretive Center 3820 Park Lane, Martinez. 706-210-4027. www.reedcreekpark.com. Children must be accompanied by an adult and registration is required for all events. February 2. Simply Science II: Squishy Sensations. Learn the steps of the scientific method while creating slimy, squishy, bouncy balls out of different materials. Ages 5 and up. 10-11:30 a.m. February 9. Snakes, Frogs, Turtles, Oh My! An outreach educator with the Savannah River Ecology Laboratory will visit the park to share his knowledge of native wildlife and provide a close-up encounter with some of the animals that live in our area. The critters will be “live and in person.” This might be your chance to pet a live alligator. Great for all ages. 10 a.m. February 16. The World of Owls. Learn about owls that live in Georgia, their adaptations and natural history. Take a walk outside at night to listen for owls and then dissect owl pellets to learn about the food web. Ages 5 and up. 7-8 p.m. February 23. All About Frogs. This indoor and outdoor program teaches children ages 5 and up about our local frogs and how they are being studied through a calling survey at Reed Creek Park. 7-8 p.m. February 25. Full Moon Meander. See nature by the light of the moon with a walk through the wet-
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calendar lands after the sun has set. Ages 5 and up. 7:308:30 p.m. The Arts, Music & more February 1-2. The Frog Prince. A play with puppetry, presented by Storyland Theatre. School shows Feb. 1, 9:30 a.m., 10:45 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. (Reservations required.) Feb. 2, 3 p.m. matinee. Imperial Theatre. 706-736-3455. February 1-3, 7-9. The Pajama Game. A splashy, fun-filled classic musical comedy. 8 p.m. Feb. 3, 3 p.m. only, and Feb. 9, 3 and 8 p.m. Aiken Community Playhouse. 803-648-1438. February 1-22. Ed Smith Exhibit. Drawings and small bronze sculptures by the Guggenheim Fellow in Sculpture and Drawing. Gertrude Herbert Institute of Art. 706-722-5495. February 1-April 21. Impressionism From Monet to Matisse. Paintings by the masters of French Impressionism, America’s most noted Impressionist painters and modern painters. Columbia Museum of Art. 803-799-2810. February 6. Beautiful Africa: A New Generation. An energetic fusion of contemporary gospel, traditional African rhythms and dance, the globally acclaimed Watoto Children’s Choir has traveled internationally as ambassadors for the millions of children in Africa, orphaned as a result of HIV/AIDS, war and poverty. 6:45 p.m. Harlem Baptist Church. 706-556-6439. February 11. Clint Black. An acoustic evening with one of country music’s brightest stars. 8 p.m. Newberry Opera House. 803-276-6264. February 13. Tony Howard’s Motown and Elvis Review. This Las Vegas-style show keeps the legends alive by paying tributes to The Temptations, Elvis, Gladys Knight and the Pips, Natalie Cole and others. 7 p.m. Imperial Theatre. 706-722-8341. February 14-15. All Hands on Deck! Based on Bob Hope’s 1942 USO tour to the troops in the field, All Hands on Deck! is a two-act revue performed by four charismatic singer/dancer/comics and a nine-piece orchestra. Features more than 40 classic Big Band hit songs in original arrangements. URS Center for the Performing Arts. Aiken. 803-648-1438. February 14. In the Mood. A 1940s big band and swing dance musical revue celebrating the music of Glenn Miller, Artie Shaw and Frank Sinatra. The show’s music arrangements, costumes and choreography are as authentic as it gets. Featuring on stage the 13-piece String of Pearls Big Band Orchestra and the In the Mood Singers. 7 p.m. Imperial Theatre. 706-722-8341.
February 14. University Health Care System Pops! at the Bell: Ronnie Milsap. Enjoy romantic favorites with Symphony Orchestra Augusta and Ronnie Milsap on Valentine’s Day. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. 706-826-4705. February 15. Southern Soul & Song Concert Series: Mike Farris and the Roseland Rhythm Revue. Soul man Mike Farris, featuring the McCrary Sisters, performs his earth-shaking blend of gospel/soul/blues music. 7:30 p.m. Imperial Theatre. 706-722-8341. February 16. Augusta Blues Festival. Featuring performances by Millie Jackson, Mel Waiters, TK Soul, Klass Band and Theodis Ealey. Bell Auditorium. For tickets, visit www.georgialinatix.com or call 1-877-4-AUGTIX. February 16. The Songs of Andrew Lloyd Webber. A theatrical stage celebration of one of the world’s most successful and prolific musical theater composers. 8 p.m. Newberry Opera House. 803276-6264. February 16-17. The Parents of Tabatha Tutt vs. DJ Smoke. An original play by Tyrone Butler to salute the work of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 3 p.m. Augusta Mini Theatre. 706-722-0598. February 19. Bank of America Columbia County Music Series: The Perlman, Quint, Bailey Trio. This colorful and infectiously enjoyable trio brings old-world elegance to the South. 7:30 p.m. Jabez S. Hardin Performing Arts Center. 706-826-4705. February 19. Lord of the Dance. A theatrical showcase of Irish dancing created by the legendary Michael Flatley. 7:30 p.m. Bell Auditorium. 1-877-4AUGTIX. February 22-24. La Cage aux Folles (The Birdcage). Performed by the Augusta Players. 8 p.m. Sunday, 3 p.m. only. Imperial Theatre. 706-826-4707. February 23. Georgia Health Sciences Symphony Series: Deliberately Beethoven. Three monumental masterpieces—Symphony No. 7, Prometheus: Overture and Triple Concerto. 7:30 p.m. First Baptist Church of Augusta. 706-826-4705. February 24. Symphony Orchestra Augusta Family Concert: Bits of Beethoven. A family concert featuring works from Beethoven. 3 p.m. Augusta State University Maxwell Performing Arts Theatre. 706-826-4705. February 24. Concerts With a Cause. Featuring organist Nathan Laube. Benefits Hope House. 3 p.m. St. John United Methodist Church. Augusta. 706-724-9641.
towards children ages 2-10. 9:30 and 10:30 a.m. GRU Maxwell Theater. Please call the GRU Literacy Center at 706-737-1625 to reserve tickets. February 26. Richmond County All Elementary School Choral Festival. Elementary students from Richmond County Schools’ choral groups perform. Free and open to the public. 7 p.m. Sacred Heart Cultural Center. 706-826-4700.
Morris Museum of Art 1 Tenth St. 706-724-7501 or www.themorris.org. February 1-10. Reflections on Water in American Painting. Fifty paintings from the Arthur J. Phelan Collection trace more than a century of America’s maritime and seaside history, from 1828 to 1945, and feature masterful renderings of sailboats, warships, waterside towns, waterscapes, harbor scenes and beach life. February 1-17. Shadows of History: Photographs of the Civil War From the Collection of Julia J. Norrell. More than 30 works by some of the most prominent photographers of the day—George Barnard, Matthew Brady and Issac H. Bonsall, among others. Tintype and ambrotype portraits to rare images of African-American regiments highlight themes of human devastation and the impact of war on the landscape and its people. February 1-April 28. Folk Art From the Julia J. Norrell Collection. Ranging from the patriotic, the satiric, and the whimsical, the collection is devoted to the art of 20th and 21st-century, self-taught artists working in the South. February 1. Films on Friday: The Candidate (1972). With a screenplay by Jeremy Larner, a onetime speech writer for Senator Eugene J. McCarthy, the film stars Robert Redford and Peter Boyle. Afterwards, museum director Kevin Grogan leads a discussion. Free. Noon. February 1. Champagne Print Fair Preview Party. 5:30–7:30 p.m. February 2. Morris Collectors Print Fair. Discover one-of-a-kind works of art at affordable prices. Free. 10 a.m-2 p.m. February 3. Artrageous! Family Sunday: Fourth Annual Children’s Book Reading Spectacular. Meet authors Dr. Maggie Thurmond Dorsey, Gail Karwoski and Debi Toporoff as they read the exciting tales from their popular children’s books. Afterwards, create your own mini book. Free. 2 p.m.
February 27. How the Elephant Got Its Trunk. Performed by the Patchwork Players especially geared
February 7. What’s in the Box: Jitterbug Baby! Explore the different ways communities celebrate important events. Afterwards, make your own wild mask with surprise items from the box. 10-11 a.m. Registration required by calling 706-828-3867.
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calendar February 8. Art at Lunch: The Collection of Julia J. Norrell. Julia J. Norrell discusses the Morris Museum of Art’s acquisition of nearly 1,000 works of art from her renowned collection. William S. Morris III, the museum’s founder and chairman of the board, introduces her. Lunch by Tastefully Yours. Paid reservations due February 6. Noon. February 12. Southern Circuit Film: Girl Model. After viewing the award-winning movie, enjoy a question-and-answer session with director and producer, Ashley Sabin. Free. 6 p.m. February 12-24.Young Masters: Work by Savannah River Area High School Students. This sixth annual juried exhibition will be on display in the Education Gallery and first-floor lobby area. February 17. Music at the Morris. Enjoy the smooth jazz stylings of Preston and Weston with vocalist Sandra Simmons. Free. 2 p.m.
Musical Theatre Workshops 3817 Martinez Blvd., Suite D, Martinez. Contact Mickey Lubeck, director, at 706-231-1759, musicaltheatredirector@gmail.com. www.onwiththeshow.biz. Ongoing. Theatre arts classes including activing, voice, dance and musical theatre production for children ages 5 and up. Visit their Web site for current class offerings. Sports
Augusta-Richmond County Recreation and Parks Department East Augusta —May Park, 622 4th St., 706-7240505. South Augusta—Fleming Athletic Office. Daniel St., 706-796-5047. West Augusta—Eisenhower Athletic Office, 488 Eisenhower Dr., 706-821-2801. February 1-28. Adult Spring Athletic Registration. Divisions: Open Coed and Men’s Open, Men’s and Women’s Church, Open Coed Church and Open Men’s Industrial. Diamond Lakes Regional ParkAdult Complex, 108 Diamond Lakes Way, Hephzibah. 706-771-2980. February 11-22. Youth Spring Athletic Registration. Coed T-Ball (boys and girls ages 5-6), Pitching Machine Baseball & Softball (boys and girls ages 7-8), Live Pitch Baseball & Softball (boys and girls ages 9-10), Dixie Youth Boys Baseball (ages 11-12), Midget Girls Fast Pitch Softball (ages 11-12), Junior Boys Baseball (ages 13-14), Junior Girls Fast Pitch Softball (ages 13-14). Register at any AugustaRichmond County athletic office.
Augusta Riverhawks Home Game Schedule James Brown Arena 7:35 p.m. Sunday games are at 4:35 p.m.
For tickets: 706-993-2645 February 16 vs. Pensacola Ice Flyers February 17 vs. Fayetteville FireAntz February 28 vs. Huntsville Havoc
Columbia County Recreation Department 5445 Columbia Road Grovetown. 706-863-7523. February 1-15. Spring Baseball and Softball Registration. Patriots Park Office.
CSRA Defensive Arts 803-221-0330 or csraDefensiveArts.com. Martial Arts Classes. Ages 8-adult. Goshinjitsu, Kindai Karate and Kobojutsu. Call for information.
The Family Y Financial assistance is available for all Family Y programs. Register at any branch or online at www. thefamilyy.org or call 706-922-9622. February 1-3. Registration for Youth Flag Football at the Family Y of Augusta South. Recreational flag football for boys and girls. Each player must have a mouthpiece to participate. Athletic clothing and water bottle are required for practice and games. Two age divisions, ages 3-4 and ages 5-12. February 1-6. Registration for Adult Basketball at Family Y of Aiken County. Ages 18 and up. Season is February 21-April 11. February 1-10. Spring Soccer and Soccer School Registration at the Wilson Family Y. Soccer school is for ages 3-4, with a season from March 18-May 17. Spring soccer is for ages 5-15, with a season from March 11-May 25. February 1-28. Men’s Basketball Registration at the Wilson Family Y. Season begins March 18. February 4-March 10. Miracle League Baseball Registration. Miracle League is a baseball league specifically designed for youth and adults with physical and developmental disabilities. Spring season is held April 20-June 15. Games are played on a rubberized surface field at the Charlie Norwood VA Medical Center on Wrightsboro Rd. Call JD McCauley at 706-922-9597 for more information. February 4-March 28. Family Y Swim Lessons. Lessons for all ages and skill levels are held twice a week for four weeks. Classes are available at the indoor pools at the Wilson Family Y and the Family Y of Downtown Augusta. February 5-March 1. Swim Team at the Wilson Family Y. Swim Team bridges the gap between swim lessons and USA Swim with specific training in endurance and stroke work. Each swimmer must be able to swim 50 yards continually in each of the following: freestyle, backstroke and breaststroke.
February 8. Freedom Friday at Family Y of Augusta South. It’s hard to find time for yourself when your spouse is overseas. Let your kids, ages 8 weeks to 12 years, have a fun evening at the Y from 69:30 p.m. Free for active duty military families. February 9 & 23. Parent’s Night Out at the Marshall Family Y. Kids enjoy activities, games, crafts and fun from 6-9:30 p.m. while parents enjoy a night out. Food provided by Chick-Fil-A or Papa Johns Pizza. Space is limited and pre-registration is suggested. Call the Marshall Family Y at 706364-32609. February 16 & 20. School Day Out at the Marshall Family Y. Ages 5-12. Activities from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Early drop-off at 7 a.m. and late pick-up until 6 p.m. are available at no extra cost. February 16. Parent’s Night Out at Family Y of Aiken County. Open to children ages 2-12 with care from 5:30-9 p.m. Kids enjoy activities and fun while parents enjoy a night out. February 18 & 19. School Days Out at Wilson Family Y. Ages 5-12. Activities from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Early drop-off at 7 a.m. and late pick-up until 6 p.m. are available at no extra cost. February 20 & 21. School Day Out at Family Y of Augusta South. Ages 5-12. Activities from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. with early drop-off at 7 a.m. and late pick-up until 6 p.m. available at no extra cost. February 23. Dodgeball Tournament. Proceeds from the tournament go towards the Wilson Family Y Community Support Campaign. Registration open until February 10 for teams of six. February 23. Parent’s Night Out at Wilson Family Y and Family Y of Augusta South. Fun, entertaining night from 6-9:30 p.m. for children ages 4-12 at the Wilson Family Y and 8 weeks to 12 years at the Family Y of Augusta South. February 23. Parent’s Night Out for Children of Deployed Soldiers at the Marshall Family Y. Fun, entertaining night for children ages 2-12. 6-9:30 p.m.
Family Y Mother’s Morning Out and Drop and Shop Programs Mother’s Morning Out at Family Y of North Augusta. Ongoing program for ages 2 to 4 at the Family Y of North Augusta. Kids learn basic educational curriculum and receive rotating instruction in creative arts, swimming and sports. Monday and Wednesday or Tuesday and Thursday from 9 a.m.-noon. Drop and Shop. Held at the Family Y of Augusta South and the Family Y of North Augusta. Drop your kids off and take the morning to go shopping, hang out with friends or just relax. No reservation
Augusta Family | February 2013 • 39
calendar needed at Augusta South. MondayFriday from 8:30 a.m.-noon for ages 8 weeks to 4 years at Augusta South, 6 months to 12 years at North Augusta.
Ongoing Programs at the Family Y Ongoing. BlazeSports Team. A swim team for all ages for physically challenged swimmers to train for competition. Ongoing. Adapted Aquatics Special Populations—Wilson Family Y. Individual half-hour classes for physically and developmentally challenged individuals of all ages. Call Claudia Collins at 706-922-9664 to schedule. Ongoing. Tae Kwon Do. Ages 5 and up at the Family Y of Aiken County, Family Y of North Augusta, Family Y of Augusta South and Wilson Family Y. Lessons are twice a week. Ongoing. Art at the Family Y of Aiken County. This class is designed just for toddlers and parents on Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Children experiment with painting, gluing, sticking, sculpting and creating while developing fine motor, language and self-help skills. All supplies are provided. Four classes per month. Creations will be displayed in a spring art show. Ages 6-12. Call for fees. Ongoing. High School Art Classes at the Family Y of Aiken County. This class is designed to develop and broaden critical and creative thinking skills for ages 13-18. Classes are held on Tuesdays at 10 a.m. Call for fees.
The Salvation Army Kroc Center 1833 Broad Street, Augusta. www.krocaugusta.org. 706-364-KROC or info@krocaugusta.org. Ongoing. Home School P.E. Monday-Friday from 9:30-11:30 a.m. for ages 5-12. Call to register.
40 • Augusta Family | February 2013
nator, at 706-922-8334. February 1, 8, 15 & 22. Kroc Tots Activity Hour. Action-packed play date for mothers and toddlers featuring children’s literature, art and craft projects and social play. Inspire your toddler’s social growth, cognitive and physical development as well as their creativity and individualism with a fun-filled morning. Ages 18 months to 5 years. 9:30 a.m. February 6, 18 & 19. Kroc Camps. When school is out, your child (ages 5-12) can enjoy a day at the Kroc Center, playing games, swimming, doing arts and crafts and more. Register early because spots fill quickly. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. February 9. CPR for the Professional Rescuer. 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Call Sean McNair, aquatics coordinator, at 706922-8334. February 16. Babysitting Course. A Red Cross course designed to provide youth with the knowledge and skills to safely and responsibly care for children and infants. Ages 11 and up. Registration ends the Wednesday before class. 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Bring money for lunch in the Kroc Cafe. February 22. Family Movie Night. Free movie in their state-of-the-art theater. Seating is limited, so reservations are suggested. Refreshments will be available for purchase and children must be accompanied by an adult. 6 p.m. February 23. Kroc Music Series— Basically Bethoven. Part of Kids Days at the Kroc Center. Presented by Symphony Orchestra of Augusta. February 27. Free Cooking Demonstration. How-to demonstrations, delicious sampling and innovative recipes. Each class is dedicated to a specific topic led by one of the Kroc Center’s culinary experts. Class size is limited, so call ahead to reserve your space. All ages. 5:30 p.m. FAMILY ACTIVITIES
February 1. Kid’s Night Out. Kids’ Night Out activities may include swimming, gym play, inflatable and crafts. Dinner included. Ages 2-12. 6-10 p.m.
Aiken Home School Times Playgroup
February 4-16. Lifeguarding Class. Call Shawn McNair, aquatics coordi-
803-648-7042 or fourmckeels@yahoo.com. Thursdays. This playgroup is open
www.augustafamily.com
PHotogrAPHy by by Brian briAN Dohert DoHert photography
calendar calendar
Celtic Rhythms The The story story isis based based on on mythical mythical Irish Irish folklore folklore as as Don Don Dorcha, Dorcha, Lord Lord of of Darkness, Darkness, challenges challenges the the ethereal ethereal lord lord of of light, light, the the Lord Lord of of the the Dance. Dance. Battle Battle lines lines are are drawn, drawn, passions passions ignite ignite and and aa love love story story begins begins to to build build against against aa backdrop backdrop of of Celtic Celtic rhythm. rhythm. The The action action isis played played out out over over 21 21 scenes scenes on on aa grand grand scale scale of of precision precision dancing, dancing, dramatic dramatic music, music, colorful colorful costumes costumes and and state-of-the-art state-of-the-art staging staging and and lighting. lighting. February February 19. 19. 7:30 7:30 p.m. p.m. Bell Bell Auditorium. Auditorium. 1-877-4AUGTIX. 1-877-4AUGTIX.
to to all all home home schoolers. schoolers. Meets Meets at at the the O’Dell O’Dell Weeks Weeks playground playground for for unstructured unstructured play play for for the the children children and and time time with with other other home home school school parents parents for for the the adults. adults. Noon. Noon.
Augusta Augusta Jewish Jewish Community Community Center Center 898 898Weinberger WeinbergerWay. Way. 706-228-3636 706-228-3636or orlog logon on at ataugustajcc.org. augustajcc.org. Ongoing. Ongoing. The The Mothers Mothers Circle. Circle. Free Free course, course, resources, resources, education education and and events events for for women women of of other other backbackgrounds grounds raising raising Jewish Jewish children. children. Call Call for fordetails. details. Sign SignUp Upfor forClass! Class!The TheAJCC AJCCoffers offersaa wide widevariety varietyof ofclasses classesfor forchildren childrenof of all all ages ages and and adults, adults, including including athletathletics, ics, the the arts, arts, cooking, cooking, language language and and more. more. Log Log on on to to download download aa comcomplete pletelisting. listing.
Classical Classical Conversations Conversations www.classicalconversations.com. www.classicalconversations.com. kelli.c.graham@att.net. kelli.c.graham@att.net. Classical Classical Conversations Conversations isis aa comcommunity munity of of home home educators educators following following aa Christian, Christian, classical classical model model of of edueducation. cation. Four Four locations locations currently currently serve serve
families —Augusta, families in in the the CSRA CSRA —Augusta, EvEvans, ans, Grovetown/Martinez Grovetown/Martinez and and North North Augusta. Augusta.
Monkey Monkey Joe’s Joe’s 368 368Furys FurysFerry FerryRd. Rd. 706-922-JUMP 706-922-JUMP(5867). (5867). monkeyjoes.com. monkeyjoes.com. First First Sunday Sunday of of Each Each Month. Month. Special Special Needs Needs Night Night at at Monkey Monkey Joe’s. Joe’s. This This event eventisisheld heldthe thefirst firstSunday Sundayof ofeach each month month after after general general store store hours hours to to ensure ensure aa calm calm environment environment for for spespecial cial needs needs children children and and their their parents. parents. 6-7 6-7p.m. p.m.
North North Augusta Augusta Homeschool Homeschool Playgroup Playgroup Meets Meets Thursdays Thursdays at at various various North North Augusta Augusta parks parks for for play. play. Field Field trips trips will will also also be be scheduled. scheduled. All All homehomeschoolers schoolers are are welcome. welcome. Call Call 803803613-0484 613-0484 or or e-mail e-mail emilykohlbachemilykohlbacher@hotmail.com. er@hotmail.com. CHILDBIRTH, CHILDBIRTH, BREASTFEEDING BREASTFEEDINGAND AND PARENTING PARENTINGSUPPORT SUPPORTGROUPS GROUPS
AugustaAreaMommies AugustaAreaMommies
For complete details, contact: Lisa Dorn, Advertising Director, The Augusta Family Magazine Direct: 706-823-3702 or Email: lisa.dorn@augustamagazine.com
Contact ContactJennifer JenniferStanley Stanleyat at
www.augustafamily.com www.augustafamily.com
Augusta Augusta Family Family || February February 2013 2013 •• 41 41
Q&A
42 • Augusta Family | February 2013
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calendar 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.
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.
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 e-mail mopsaiken@gmail.com for more information or to register for childcare.
MOMS Club Visit momsclubaugusta.org. Ever feel like you’re the only mother who stays home? You are not alone! Come meet other athome mothers at the MOMS Club, an international nonprofit organization.
Neighbor To Family
Burn Survivors Support Group
MOMS Club of Grovetown
The Southeastern Firefighters Burn Foundation invites all burn survivors to attend this monthly support group. Meetings are held the fourth Wednesday each 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.
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.
The goal of this organization is to revolutionize foster care by keeping siblings together while building healthier families.
Celiac Disease Support Group
Mothers of Advanced Maternal Age (Mama’s)
E-mail 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.
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/.
Geneice McCoy, organizer.
Parent Support Group The Child Advocacy Center, a program of Child Enrichment Inc., a nonprofit organization serving victims 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 706-737-4631 for information and location. This group is not appropriate for sex offenders.
Peaceful Parenting Augusta
A nondenominational Christian group for mothers of preschool-aged children. Childcare provided. Meets the first and third Tuesday of each month
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 e-mail Jen at theotherbradford@yahoo.com.
www.augustafamily.com
Augusta Family | February 2013 • 43
Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS) Common Bond Parent Support Group
801 Greene St., Augusta. Call Kimberly Lee-Branch, coordinator of licensing, recruitment and training at 706-3962180, ext. 107.
calendar Trust Birth Stories & Cinema Circle Contact Lynn Reed, Trust Birth Facilitator, at 706-833-5101 or e-mail TrustBirthAugusta@comcast.net. February 25. Birthing Peace. “What a gift Monique Gauthier has given to women,” says Lynn Reed, Trust Birth facilitator. “If this is the future of birth— and I certainly hope it is—we have much to look forward to!” Come watch this water/home birth film, discuss and then share your own birth stories. Trust Birth Initiative stands on the truth that “Birth is safe, interference is risky,” and that woman (and their partners) have the ability and responsibility to educate themselves to make informed choices. Monthly meeting are held at Steinle Wellness Center, 122 Old Evans Rd. 7-8:30 p.m. HOSPITAL PROGRAMS
Doctors Hospital Call 706-651-BABY (2229) or go to doctors-hospital.net for registration and class location. Pre-registration required for most programs. February 2. Safe Sitter. This nationally recognized program teaches students ages 11-13 safe and nurturing childcare techniques, management and appropriate responses to medical emergencies. February 9 & 10. Short and Sweet. A weekend childbirth class covering the process of labor and delivery, comfort techniques and childbirth, medication/epidurals and relaxation and breathing techniques. 9 a.m.4:30 p.m. on the 6th, 1-5 p.m. on the 7th. February 19. The Daddy Class. Dads only, taught by an experienced dad. Learn about the joys and challenges of fatherhood and ways to support mom. 7-9 p.m. February 23. You’re a Big Girl Now. This class is for girls ages 9-12 with their mothers. Information on puberty and adolescence is discussed, including subjects such as emotions, acne, menstruation and normal body changes. February 26. Pickles and Ice Cream. This class is great for the first-time mom, but recommended for all. Nutrition, exercise, fetal development and body changes are discussed. 7-9:30 p.m. February 28. Breastfeeding. Getting started, latching on and positioning are discussed for a smooth start to breastfeeding. 6-9:30 p.m.
Georgia Health Sciences Health System Register online at georgiahealth.org. Ongoing. Volunteers Needed. The Georgia Health Sciences University Cancer Center is in need of volunteers. Caregivers and cancer survivors are encouraged to apply. For more information or to
44 • Augusta Family | February 2013
apply, call 706-721-3596, stop by the Volunteer Services office inside the Georgia Health Sciences Children’s Medical Center, second floor, Room BT2611 or go to georgiahealth.org/volunteer. Ongoing. Support Group for Families Who Have Lost a Baby During Pregnancy, Childbirth or Early Infancy. Call 706-721-8299 or visit their Web site. February 1. Safe Kids East Central Safety Seat Inspection. Four out of five car seats are used incorrectly. Schedule an appointment to make sure yours is installed properly by calling Rene Hopkins, RN, at 706-721-7606. Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way.
ing locations: Safe Kids Office, Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way—contact Rene Hopkins at 706-721-7606. Martinez Columbia Fire Rescue, Engine Company 3—contact Jamie Champion at 706-860-7763. Ongoing. Safe Kids East Central Car Seat Classes. By appointment at the following locations: Sake Kids Office, Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way or Martinez Columbia Fire Rescue Headquarters. Contact Rene Hopkins, Safe Kids Coordinator, at 706-721-7606.
Trinity Hospital of Augusta Call Women’s Health Services at 706-481-7727 or visit trinityofaugusta.com for information and registration.
February 5. Autism Spectrum Disorder Support and Resource Group (The “A-Team”). Provides support for families, caregivers and friends of children with autism spectrum disorders including autism, Asperger’s and PDD NOS. 6-7 p.m. Georgia Health Sciences Children’s Medical Center, First Floor, Family Resource Library, Room 1801. Call Family Services Development at 706-721-5160 or e-mail ddrakele@ georgiahealth.edu for more information.
February 1. Baby Care Basics and Breastfeeding. Two popular classes offered together. 9 a.m.-noon.
February 7. Safe Kids East Central Presents Cribs for Kids. Learn how to provide a safe sleep environment for your child. Families who demonstrate a financial need will receive a portable crib, fitted sheet, sleep sac and pacifier for a small fee. 5:45-8 p.m. Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call Rene Hopkins, RN, at 706-721-7606.
February 4. Infant CPR. Learn how to respond in an emergency situation using infant mannequins and a simple step-by-step method. 6-8 p.m.
February 13. Your Amazing Baby. This two-anda-half-hour baby care class includes topics such as baby’s first hours, making the connection, diapering and bathing baby, sleep and crying patterns, normal newborn characteristics, hospital routines and infant safety. Both parents are encouraged to attend. Classes are taught by certified instruction. Call 706-721-9351 to register. 6:30-9 p.m. in the GHS Medical Center, 7th Floor West, Room 7001. February 14. Car Seat Class. 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.
February 2. Saturday Express Lamaze Childbirth Education. Helps mother and support person understand the final stages of pregnancy as well as labor and the birth of your baby. Covers natural and medicated deliveries, Lamaze coping techniques and more. 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.
February 9. Stepping Into Manhood. Boys ages 12-15 with their father, male relative or friend, join the instructor in frank discussions on sexuality, peer pressure and responsible decision-making. This course teaches teenage boys the importance of making their own decisions and how to assertively say “no.” 9:30 a.m.-noon. Call for fee information. February 11. HUG Your Baby. This class provides Help, Understanding and Guidance for young families as they prepare for the birth of their infant. Learn how your infant communicates and strategies to help calm your baby. A dynamic, fun and effective way to connect with your newborn. 4-5 p.m. February 12. Childbirth Education 101. Learn about the signs and symptoms of labor as well as labor and delivery. 6-8:30 p.m.
February 23. Safe Sitter Program. This nationally recognized, award-winning curriculum teaches 11-13-year-olds how to handle emergencies while caring for younger children. During the course, instructors provide students with hands-on practice in basic techniques so they are prepared to act in a crisis. 8:45 a.m.-4 p.m. in the Safe Kids Office on the back side of Building 1010C, 1225 Walton Way. Call 706-721-7606 to register.
University Health Care System
Ongoing. Safe Kids East Central Child Safety Seat Inspections. By appointment at the follow-
Call 706-774-2825 or logon at www.universityhealth.org/calendar for information. Registration is required for most programs.
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February 26. The Birds, The Bees and Me. This course brings 12-15-year-old girls and their mother, female relative or friend for frank discussions on sexuality, peer pressure and responsible decisionmaking. Course content deals with the changes, challenges and decisions that confront today’s teenage girls. 6:30-9 p.m.
calendar
calendar
Support Group. For parents, families and friends who have lost infants through miscarriage, death, ectopic pregnancy or stillbirth. Meets the first Monday of each month. Young Women with Breast Cancer. Meets the third Friday each month. A support group for women in their 20s through 30s dealing with breast cancer. 12:20 p.m. at the University Hospital Breast Health Center, Professional Center 2, Suite 205, 818 St. Sebastian Way. February 4-25 (Mondays), February 5-26 (Tuesdays) or February 6-27 (Wednesdays). Prenatal Education. This four-week series of childbirth preparation classes is designed to inform and prepare all expectant parents regardless of birth plans. Class topics include various states of labor, breathing and relaxation and how to care for yourself and your new baby. 7-9 p.m. in the Women’s Center Third Floor Classroom. Registration required. February 6. Personalized Cardiovascular Disease Prevention. Join internist Christopher McElroy, M.D., for a presentation on heart health. Light refreshments will be served and reservations are required. 6-7:30 p.m. in the University Hospital Cafeteria Dining Rooms 1-3. February 8 & 9 or 22 & 23. Weekender Childbirth Preparation Class. A complete childbirth preparation class designed for those with time constraints or fluctuating schedules. Friday from 6:30-9:30 p.m. and Saturday from 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m. February 21. Breastfeeding. This class is designed for the expectant mother who plans to breastfeed. If you want in-depth information on how to evaluate breastfeeding and get off to a good start, this class is for you. Call 706-7742825 to register. 7-9 p.m. at Babies R Us, 4225 Washington Rd., Evans. February 27. Healthy Diet, Healthy Heart. Join cardiologist Mac Bowman, M.D., and licensed dietitian Angela Johnson for a presentation and heart-healthy lunch. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. at Beulah Grove Baptist Church, Building of Opportunity, 1434 Poplar St. Reservations are required. February 28. Introduction to Infant CPR. Do you worry about knowing how to revive your baby should the need arise? This class provides an opportunity to learn and practice infant CPR on mannequins and learn other aspects of infant safety. Space is limited, so early registration is suggested. 7-8:30 p.m.
Submit calendar entries to Karin Calloway at karin. calloway@augustafamily.com or enter your event online at www.augustafamily.com.
www.augustafamily.com
Augusta Family | February 2013 • 45
Talkin’ About My Generation
Three residents representing three age groups share their reflections on family, life and fun.
by Grace Belangia photos by John Harpring
Keith Pickett, 49, is a software
Victoria Vallotton, 8, of
Likes To: Travel and read.
Likes To: Ride horses.
Favorite Birthday Present: Kurig coffee maker.
Favorite Possession: American Girl doll.
Birthday Cake: Vanilla-chocolate marbeled cake. Frosting optional.
Birthday Cake: Chocolate.
developer and co-founder of TheClubhou.se, a co-work space on Broad Street. He and his wife, Beth, live in Grovetown with their two dogs, Barkley and Sanders.
Favorite Place To Be: The Clubhou.se. It’s where minds like mine go to charge up. Friends Say He’s: Dependable. Song Playing in His Head: “Master of the House” from Les Miserables. Message in a Bottle: To whomever finds this: Smile. Someone is probably watching you. Finds Inspiration: From observation. I like to identify hurdles or annoyances and try to find a solution around them. This is how I come up with ideas for the code I write. 46 • Augusta Family | February 2013
Augusta, is the daughter of Allison and Max Vollotton. She is homeschooled and has one brother, William, and a dog named Molly.
Favorite Birthday Present: iPad.
Favorite Place To Be: Virginia. Song Playing in Her Head: “Sherry,” by Frankie Vallie and the Four Seasons. Favorite Indulgence: Pizza. Words She Lives By: Jesus loves me this I know, for the Bible tells me so. Keeps Her Awake at Night: Thunder. Friends Say She’s: Sweet. Greatest Hope: To be a nurse and take care of others. www.augustafamily.com
Susan Morris,
38, of Grovetown, works for the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office. She and her husband, Joshua, have two children. She also has two step children and a black lab puppy named Shadow. Likes To: Bake sweets—cookies, cupcakes and breads. Favorite Birthday Present: A day at the spa given to me by my husband. Birthday Cake: Red velvet. Can’t Live Without: My smart phone. Friends Say She’s: Fun and playful. Never Wants To Do Again: I had to get sprayed with pepper spray for my job certification—something I definitely never want to do again. Words She Lives By: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, but in all your ways acknowledge Him and He will direct your paths.” Proverbs 3:5.