Memphis Parent 09-18 by Contemporary Media

S E P â&#x20AC;¢2 0 1 8 THE WELLNESS ISSUE

STAYING FIT TOGETHER

PLUS

VIDEO GAMES & HEALTH FALL FESTIVALS AND

MORE INSIDE!

EST.

1956

PK2

SA I N

INIC OM S D

8TH

fo r b

oy s

Two amazing schools. One community of faith, achievement, and belonging.

SAIN

EST.

1851

PK2

Take a closer look! www.saa-sds.org

N E S AC

PK2-12 September 29 • 11:00 a.m - 1:00 p.m.

OPEN HOUSE

St. Agnes Academy, created just for girls, and St. Dominic School, built just for boys, together make up Memphis’ Dominican Community of Schools.

12TH

fo r

gir l s

WIN A TNSTARS SCHOLARSHIP FOR YOUR LITTLE SUPERHERO SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER 2018

is College Savings Month in Tennessee! To celebrate, TNStars is giving away $529 scholarships to three super kids.

TNStars.com/scholarship by 9/30. Winners announced 10/1. Scholarship money will be deposited to a TNStars account.

INVEST

in their future now by opening a TNStars account. Contributions grow tax-free, and money can be used for tuition and fees, room and board, books, computers and more.

TNStars.com To learn more about TNStars investment objectives, risks, costs and to read the official statement, go to TNStars.com/scholarship or call 855-386-7827. All scholarships are for Tennessee residents only and subject to the Official Rules of the College Savings Month Scholarship Giveaway. For more information, visit TNStars.com/Scholarship. 2

WE TAKE CARE OF YOUR SMILE SO YOU CAN TAKE CARE OF THEIRS. We understand how busy your life can be. That’s why we cover preventive care with most of our plans at 100%. At a simple dental visit, your dentist may be able to detect more than 120 signs and symptoms of diseases, helping you care for your overall health as well as your smile. That’s also why we contribute to Governors Books from Birth Foundation, to help make sure your child receives essential tools for preparing them for a life of learning with books from Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library—at no cost to you!

Imagination Library Week is September 16-22. Sign your child up to receive books from the Imagination Library at GovernorsFoundation.org

Good health begins with a plan from Delta Dental of Tennessee.

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

Learn more at CoverYourMouth.com.

memphisparent

memphis-parent

THIS MONTH 10

memphisparent

OUR COVER

READ FOR THE HEALTH OF IT

Five ways reading can make your child healthier By Jennifer Boren

PUTTING THE KIDS IN CHARGE (OF THEIR HEALTH) Memphians Gene and Rachel Williams make health a family thing By Tonya Thompson

COTTON TAILS TURNS 30 Memphis retailer continues to shine by Jane Schneider

The Williams family: Gene and Rachel with Adrian (16) and Ghianna (8) Photographer: Bryan Rollins

YOUR PLAYGROUND AWAITS

Creative play and kid-friendly activities at Crosstown By Jeff Hulett

‘‘Leading Provider of Inflatable FUN!‘‘

As little as $100 for all day FUN! Call Us Today! 901-360-9000

DEPARTMENTS 6 901 Fun Ahoy! Fun for the whole family — even the dog! 8 Dear Teacher Protecting your child’s hearing

12 Health Matters Your gamer’s health in a world of Fortnite 18 Outstanding Teacher Developing active kids

OUR STAFF Editor Michelle McKissack

Managing Editor Shara Clark

M S EAPYT E 20 M1B8E R 2 0 1 8

Art Director Bryan Rollins

ADHDMemphis + ADHD Coaching for Adults, Children and Parents

Coaching Group for parents of ADHD children now registering.

Graphic Designer Jeremiah Matthews Advertising Manager Sheryl Butler

Memphis Parent is published by Contemporary Media, Inc. CEO Kenneth Neill Director of New Business Development Jeffrey A. Goldberg Editorial Director Bruce VanWyngarden Special Projects Director Molly Willmott Email Marketing Manager Britt Ervin Distribution Manager Carrie O’Guin Controller Leila Zetchi IT Director Joseph Carey

Production Operations Director Margie Neal

+ Coaching & Support Groups for Parents of ADHD Children

(901) 209-9425

Advertising Art Director Christopher Myers

Account Executive Mary Ballard

+ ADHD Testing & Diagnosis

24 Calendar and Events Welcoming fall with fun for all

adhdmemphis.com

Calendar Editor Meena Viswanathan

Memphis, TN 38103 p: 901.521.9000 • f: 901.521.0129

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE Memphis Parent strives to provide information of value to all who are invested in our children’s future.

Send advertising queries to: sheryl@memphisparent.com Visit us online at memphisparent.com

EDITOR’S NOTE

NEW BEGINNINGS

All because I took a big leap into an arena that was completely foreign to me — running for office. But my desire to impact the children, families, and educators of Shelby County overpowered any uncertainty of the unknown. For years, I have worked behind the scenes to make a difference in my children’s schools, starting with my oldest when he entered kindergarten in 2003. My involvement in education began simply enough as a room parent, which morphed into volunteering as PTA president, which then folded into serving on leadership advisory councils at the school, district, and state level. And last month, voters elected me to serve on the board of commissioners of Shelby County Schools. It’s an amazing honor, and I am still in awe of winning. But I’m especially proud of my children, John, Everett, Peter, and Bliss. They really did rise to the occasion and didn’t hesitate to help however they could. It was a civics class in 3D for them as they helped me knock on doors, make phone calls, and greet voters at the polls. However, this new beginning for me serving on the school board will also be a new beginning for Memphis Parent as I leave my position as editor of this award-winning publication that has been a constant for nearly three decades in providing guidance for families. I’m honored to have been a part of its story for the last two years and work alongside all of the talented people who help bring you Memphis Parent every month. Finally, it’s been a joy to interact with the wonderful children and parents I have met along the way who inspired me to bring you insightful articles. Be well, and know that I am continuing to be a voice for Memphis families.

Open House: October 28 at 2 p.m.

FOR EVERY STAGE OF YOUR CHILD’S LIFE

FRE

For Ch E EXAM ild (a $62ren Under Two!

Value )

Pediatric Dentists

Steven J. Fuson, D.D.S., M.S., John A. Acosta, D.D.S., Toddrick Smith, D.D.S., Dr. Nathaniel Denson, D.D.S., M.D.S.

Call for Deta Only. Expils. New Patien ts ires 9/30 Additiona /18. l fees in individmay be incurred ual case s.

Family Dentists

Clayton Floriani, D.D.S., Adam Fitzhugh, D.D.S., Natalie Carruth, DDS.

Orthodontists

Gregg Bouldien, D.D.S., M.S., Dr. Taylor Collazo, D.D.S., M.S.D.

Germantown

901.805.2127

Happy Parenting!

Memphis

www.pdg4kids.com

901.363.8192

Olive Branch

662.371.4123 Southaven

662.269.6852

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

After a few weeks of classes, I’m sure you’re getting settled into your back-to-school routines. The same goes for my family and me after an especially eventful summer. In between visits to the zoo and splashing in the YMCA pool, my four children and husband, John, hit the campaign trail on my behalf.

#901FUN

Ahoy! These events are fun for the whole family — even the dog! SEPTEMBER

END OF SUMMER LUAU

Wear your favorite Hawaiian shirt, or grass skirt if you’ve got one, and head to the Metal Museum on Thursday, September 6th, for a themed party. The free events runs from 5 to 8 p.m. and will feature live music by surf-rock band Impala, food from Stickem food truck, a Tiki bar, and yard games. Visit metalmuseum.org or call 774-6380 for more information.

Original Cot

ton Tails ad

, Sept. ‘88

JS AE N P TUEAMR BY E2R0 2 1 80 1 8

It is an honor serving generation after generation. We appreciate your friendship! -Miki LAURELWOOD SHOPPING CENTER • 901.685.8417 @cottontailsmemphis @cotton.tails1 6

PIRATES RAID AT THE HOOKS LIBRARY

Arrrgh, matey! From 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, September 22nd, Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library hosts a swashbuckling celebration in honor of Talk Like a Pirate Day. The carnival-style event is free and features pirate games and crafts, musical performances, interactive stations, live exotic birds, a mermaid "shellfie" station, and food trucks. For more info, visit memphislibrary.org or call 415-2627.

Thank you for the last 30 years!

your business, but most of all,

DOGGIE DIP

Calling all pups! On Saturday, September 8th, YMCA at Schilling Farms hosts this dog-friendly “pawty” benefitting the Collierville Animal Shelter. Bring your dogs to swim and play in the fully fenced outdoor pool. Small dogs (25 lbs and under) can play from 12:30 to 1:45 p.m. and splash time for dogs of all sizes is from 2 to 3:30 p.m. Cost is $20 per dog. Go to ymcamemphis.org or call 850-9622 for more info.

BARTLETT FALL FESTIVAL

Here’s another for our fall festivals round-up (page 14). Held at W.J. Freeman Park from 6 to 9:30 p.m. on Friday, September 28th, and on Saturday, September 29th, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., this free shindig features a midway carnival, live music, and vendors. Highlights include the Judge Freeman Marr Panther Pride 5K Run, arts & crafts, a car show, children’s activities, and a BBQ contest. Call 385-5589 or visit cityofbartlett.org for more information.

One Campus

for Sr. K–Grade 12 in the Heart of the City Life with children is busy. We want to help. Our co-ed campus for sr. kindergarten–grade 12 offers a one-stop shop in the heart of East Memphis. Do you need care before and after school? We’ve got it 7:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m. Schedule a tour to see firsthand how we build strong students in a diverse Christian environment.

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

901-767-4494 | HARDINGLIONS.ORG

DEAR TEACHER

READY. SET. GOddard!

By PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS

We help children explore and discover their interests through play in a safe environment. We provide ample opportunities for fun learning experiences, promoting a lifelong love of learning in literacy, science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics.

CALL TODAY! COLLIERVILLE^ • 901-861-0108 CORDOVA • 901-708-3338 ^

GoddardSchool.com

INFANT THROUGH PRE-K The Goddard Schools are operated by independent franchisees under a license agreement with Goddard Systems, Inc. Programs and ages may vary. Goddard Systems, Inc. program is AdvancED accredited. © Goddard Systems, Inc. 2018

TEACH YOUR CHILDREN HOW TO PROTECT THEIR HEARING Q My children play their music very loud. Is it possible that they could damage their hearing? – Concerned

It is definitely possible if they frequently listen to music playing full blast. We spoke with Shari Eberts, a hearing health advocate, who says that prolonged exposure to any sound at or above 85 decibels can cause gradual hearing loss. In addition, once your hearing is damaged, it is permanently impaired. Loud noise exposure kills delicate cells inside the cochlea of the inner ear, and once they are gone, they do not grow back. Loud noises can also cause tinnitus, the sensation of buzzing or ringing in your ears when no sound is present. While people know about concerts, other activities can be damaging to your children’s hearing. Restaurants, sporting events, and even children’s parties are getting louder every day. Other venues you need to be aware of include: Movies: One of the Star Wars movies boasted that it was the loudest movie on record. Social events: Bar/bat mitzvahs and weddings can be heartwarming and fun, but also incredibly loud. Most bands and DJs set the volume at unsafe levels. School events: The noise at some school programs like talent shows can be at unsafe levels. The good news is that noise-induced hearing loss is 100 percent preventable! Be aware of the risks and arrive prepared. Here are tips for protecting your family’s hearing when out and about: 1. Turn down the volume. If you have control of the volume, turn it to a safe level.

SEPTEMBER 2018

OPEN HOUSE

Sunday, November 11th from 2-4 p.m. MIDDLE SCHOOL PREVIEW DAY Tuesday, December 4th 8:30-2:30 Woodland combines small class sizes, dedicated teachers, and personalized instruction to help grow your child’s success.

Call 901-685-0976 to schedule a tour, or email admissions@woodlandschool.org.

2. Speak up. If you think the environment is too loud, ask for the volume to be lowered or to be moved to a quieter seat. 3. Move away from the sound. If you have a choice of seats, sit far from the speakers. With distance comes safety. 4. Travel with earplugs. Carry earplugs with you and bring extra to share. Acoustic earplugs provide the best sound for music, but properly used cheaper pairs will also do the trick. 5. Use a decibel reader app. Most are not 100 percent accurate, but they will let you know if you are near or in the danger zone. Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@ dearteacher. com or to the Dear Teacher website. Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2018. Distributed by King Features Syndicate

WE HELP

OUR STUDENTS FIND BALANCE. The more students can combine what they’re learning, the bigger the picture can be. That’s why at Lausanne, our teachers find new, engaging ways to introduce concepts to our students that will leave a lasting impression. See how one of our Junior Kindergarten classes used balance bikes to learn about story sequencing at lausanneschool.com/balance.

BULL SHOALS-WHITE RIVER STATE PARK

1381 West Massey Road, Memphis, TN 901.474.1030 | admission@lausanneschool.com | lausanneschool.com

MORE REASONS TO

SMILE Looking for the perfect setting to come together with family and friends? The possibilities are endless at Arkansas’s 52 state parks. #ARStateParks

Plan your adventure at ArkansasStateParks.com

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THIS WEEKEND

FEATURE

READ FOR THE HEALTH OF IT Five ways reading can make your child healthier By JENNIFER BOREN

Our environment is riddled with hazards to our health: toxins in our produce, antibiotics in our meat, and pesticides covering our lawns. In an effort to keep our children strong, we enroll them in sports, stock our fridge with organic milk, and keep hand sanitizer at the ready. We do more today to keep our children healthier than ever. There may be one weapon missing from your arsenal of illness-fighting routines — books. Researchers studying the effects of reading on our health have discovered reading more may add years to your child’s life. A 2016 study by Yale found people who read for about 30 minutes a day live, on average, two years longer than those who do not.

SEPTEMBER 2018

Here are five surprising benefits to reading more: Build brain muscle – Just as our bodies need exercise, we must also exercise our brains. Aging leads to a decline in memory. Reading not only helps stave off weakening of our brain muscle, it can help us grow brain muscle. After just six months of daily reading, researchers found weak spots in the brain were repaired. According to Haskin’s Laboratories at Yale, reading a book engages your child’s brain in a different way than watching movies and TV shows. Reading forces your child to create images of their own, requiring much more brain power than viewing alone. Next time you are tempted to turn on the iPad for your child, offer up an engaging book instead. Build relationships – Cuddling up with your child and a good book does more than form a parent-child bond. Reading helps your child be empathetic to others, which is essential to forming strong relationships. Books boost their confidence and self-esteem, and reading about self-assured characters can

motivate children to expand their social network. Kids and teens find a safe space in books to tackle tough issues like bullying, depression, and grief. Books can chart a path through difficult phases of development and periods of loneliness and social isolation. Sleep – Is it a struggle to wake your child in the morning? If your child or teen goes to bed with a television, computer, or cell phone in their room, you may want to reconsider. Exposure to electronic devices can make it harder for your child to fall asleep and sleep deeply enough. The American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) has found diminished sleep to be associated with behavior issues, irritability, obesity, and depression. Teens require even more sleep once they enter puberty, some up to two additional hours. The AAP recommends turning off all screens 60 minutes before bedtime. Reading during this time can help your child

unwind and relax. Increase earning potential – Reading 20 minutes a day is something you can take to the bank. Just 20 minutes of reading with your child daily exposes them to more than 1.8 million words per year, giving them a leg up academically. Children who lack basic literacy skills upon entering kindergarten are more likely to drop out later, which can have a negative impact on future career options and earning potential. According to the Tennessee Children’s Cabinet, every year you read aloud with your child, you increase their average lifetime earnings by $50,000. Reduce stress – Adults are not the only ones stressed in today’s world. Our children are often overscheduled with school and sports and extracurricular activities, which can lead to stress. There are many ways to unwind and reduce stress, but reading is one of the best. Reading a book can relax your child and lower their heart rate in just six minutes. When your child is upset, reading a book can reduce their stress by 68 percent, more than even listening to music or taking a walk.

While reading more may not cure clinical depression or land your child their dream job upon graduation, books are a prescription worth trying. Reading the latest New York Times blockbuster may be just what the doctor ordered!

Jennifer Boren is the lead library media specialist for Collierville Schools and blogs at bookjabber.wordpress.com. 10

active learning

agile teaching

TO CONNECT WITH YOUR

COMMUNITY

to build disciplined minds, adventurous spirits, and brave hearts

OUR 18 LOCATIONS HOST EVENTS FOR EVERY AGE AND INTEREST.

HERE ARE JUST A FEW:

LIBRARY CARD SIGN-UP MONTH ALL OF SEPTEMBER Sign up online and at all Memphis Public Libraries.

LEGO CLUB EVERY SATURDAY 11 AM - NOON East Shelby Library 7200 E Shelby Dr.

GADGET LAB FOR KIDS EVERY TUESDAY 4 PM - 5 PM

ADMISSION OPEN HOUSES Lower School (grades PK-5) Germantown Campus | Thursday, Oct. 25 @ 9:00 am Memphis Campus | Thursday, Nov. 8 @ 8-10:00 am (drop-in)

Middle School and Upper School (grades 6-12) Collierville Campus l Sunday, Nov. 11 @ 2-3:30 pm

Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library 3030 Poplar Ave

TEEN ARTS FEST 2018 SEPT 22 | 11 AM - 3 PM Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library 3030 Poplar Ave

PIRATES RAID HOOKS’ LIBRARY! SEPT 23 | 1 PM - 4 PM

ST. GEORGE’S sgis.org

Central Library 3030 Poplar Ave

INDEPENDENT SCHOOL #STARTHERE MEMPHISLIBRARIES.ORG

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

Benjamin L. Hooks

HEALTH MATTERS

YOUR GAMER’S HEALTH IN A WORLD OF FORTNITE A local physiologist weighs in on parent concerns By TONYA THOMPSON

But just how healthy are these gaming crazes, and could it have a negative effect on your child’s mental, physical, emotional, and social health? “Many of the concerns with video games center around it being a highly sedentary activity,” says Webb A. Smith, PhD, a clinical exercise physiologist with Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital and assistant professor with the department of pediatrics at the UT Health Science Center. “Children often report playing for four to five hours per day, which is the majority of recreational time after school.” According to Smith, physical activity is important for normal growth and

development, and it drives bone and muscle growth. Added to this, excessive screen time, including video games, is associated with snacking and overeating, increasing the risk of obesity and other chronic health conditions. Smith adds, “There are also some data that suggest high video game use can lead to poor academic performance, but this is really a consequence of choosing video games over homework.” But wait! Before you throw out the gaming devices in your household and risk all-out mutiny, it’s important to consider there are some benefits to video games, as well. “There is a growing amount of science supporting beneficial effects of video game play,” says Smith. “Some benefits that have emerged are improved decision making, memory, attention, and problem solving. The type of game and storyline drive these benefits, with games requiring quick decisions and situational analysis showing the greatest effects. Kids are really working hard to complete these tasks, and they learn and get better at making decisions. There have even been a handful of studies showing that video games can be part of an effective treatment for dyslexia and some eyemovement and tracking disorders.” Although there still aren’t enough data and studies linking active video games to positive health outcomes, Smith states early studies are promising, including some recent studies showing that active video games can even be a key part in obesity treatment. “Work that my team at Le Bonheur

Children’s Hospital and the University of Tennessee Health Science Center has completed shows that active video games can be very good exercise, out-performing walking on a treadmill,” he says. The team also found kids will work harder playing active video games and report higher enjoyment than traditional exercise like walking or riding a bike. According to Smith, this is encouraging as a treatment for low physical activity, which is leading the high rate of obesity found in American children. Beyond this local work focused on the potential of using video games to benefit young people’s health, Memphis’ Urban Child Institute and the Memphis Grizzlies foundation are also participating in ongoing studies in a charter school in Memphis using active video games to increase physical activity during the school day. Ultimately, the question boils down to best practices for parents to incorporate into their family’s routine to keep screen time to a minimum. “It is important to keep in mind that 60 minutes per day of physical activity and less than one hour of nonschool-related screen time per day are the recommendation,” Smith says. “Video games in moderation can absolutely be part of a healthy lifestyle,” he notes, but advises that setting household rules and limits on screen time in general, with video games included, will go a long way in keeping your gamer healthy and thriving.

A Middle Tennessee native, Tonya Thompson now lives in Southaven, MS with her three kids and their crazy pets. 12

IM AGES COURTESY EPIC GA MES, INC.

SEPTEMBER 2018

Described by The New Yorker as having “elements of Beatlemania, the opioid crisis, and the ingestion of Tide Pods,” the massively popular shooter-survival game Fortnite has reached an estimated 125 million downloads across gaming platforms since its release in September 2017. And if you’re a parent with pre-teens or teenagers and you haven’t heard of Fortnite — just wait, you will.

Explore. Passion can’t be taught. But it can be nurtured and directed. Our balanced approach to education encourages your child to find and follow her passion to places she may never have dreamed.

To schedule a tour, call 901.765.4605 or visit www.briarcrest.com.

CHRISTIAN SCHOOL Y O U R

B A L A N C E

OPEN HOUSE: Mon, Oct. 1st at 6:30pm- High School • Thurs, Nov. 1st at 9:30am- Elementary & Middle School Thurs, Nov. 1st at 6:30pm- High School • Thurs, Nov. 8th at 6:30pm- Elementary & Middle School

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

F I N D

FEATURE

FUN FALL FESTIVALS B L A K E B I L L I N G S | D R E A M S TI M E .COM

Plan ahead for these upcoming outings • By JESSE DAVIS

Yes, summer’s coming to a close, but we don’t have to stay inside — tons of family fun awaits us this season, and cooler weather will make it all the better. Bring a lawn chair and check out an outdoor concert or gear up for rides and thrills at the fair. Get excited with our guide to Memphis’ fall festivals! SEASONAL/ONGOING

Levitt Shell Concert Series The Shell has put on more than 500 free, family-friendly concerts in the heart of Overton Park, giving families a chance to spread a blanket out on the grass and relax or run up to the stage with the kids to dance to an eclectic mix of music. Performers this season will include Memphis’ own Joyce Cobb and North Mississippi Allstars. The fall series runs September 6th through October 21st. Shows begin at 7 p.m. Visit levittshell.org for the full lineup.

SEPTEMBER

SEPTEMBER 2018

Delta Fair & Music Festival Rides, lights, stuffed animals hung in bunches like giant, fuzzy bananas. Corn dogs, funnel cakes, and ice cream. What’s not to love about a fair? With live music, crafts displays, games, livestock shows, tractor pulls, and lawn mower races, this is truly everyone’s fair. Whether you’re competing, overdosing on fair food, or strolling through and taking it all in, this event promises a delightful sensory overload. Agricenter. September 1st-10th. Germantown Festival Not only is the Germantown Festival one of the longest, continuously run festivals in the Memphis area, it may be the only one to offer an auto show, live entertainment, and most importantly, the running of the weenies dog race. The 47th annual Germantown Festival provides a free, family-friendly weekend. 7745 Poplar Pike, Germantown. Saturday, September 8th, 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sunday, September 9th, noon-6 p.m. Cooper-Young Festival Featuring live music, art vendors, 14

handcrafted goods, and food vendors on every corner, Cooper-Young Fest is Midtown’s yearly reunion. Photography prints, handmade ceramics, leather goods — it has a little of everything on offer. Festivities kick off with the Friday FourMiler race the night before, and the main event offers food, artwork, and live music until sunset. Cooper-Young neighborhood. September 15th, 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Mid-South Fair The Mid-South Fair is a century-old tradition. It’s a candy-coated, deep-fried Southern confection, familiar and refreshing as a watermelon slice on a summer afternoon. It’s one of the few festivals that features both a horticulture show and carnival rides. And we haven’t even mentioned the historic talent contest (whose previous contestants included a young Elvis Presley) or the stunt dog show or the concerts. Landers Center, Southaven. September 20th-30th.

OCTOBER

Pink Palace Crafts Fair October calls to mind crisp, cool mornings, perfect weather for a stroll in the park. Lucky for us, this is when the Pink Palace Crafts Fair is held at Audubon Park, where attendees can peruse handcrafted wares, enjoy live music, and explore a petting zoo. Blacksmiths and carpenters perform demonstrations, and local food vendors offer their goods. Audubon Park. October 12th-14th, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday. Metal Museum Repair Days The annual fund-raiser for the Metal Museum, Repair Days returns for four days of family-friendly activities, hands-on workshops, demonstrations, and, of course,

metal repairs. The Metal Museum brings more than 200 metalsmiths to the bluffs to show off their handiwork and raise funds for the only ornamental metal museum in the United States. Metal Museum. October 18th-21st. Mid-South Renaissance Faire Want all the fun trappings of the medieval times without any of the feudalism, lack of hygiene, or that pesky Bubonic Plague? Well, for two weekends in October, you can enjoy all the intricate gowns, jousting, turkey legs, mead, and hierarchical social structures you can handle at this family-friendly festival. 4351 Babe Howard Blvd., Millington. October 13th-14th and 20th-21st. Dia de Los Muertos The Brooks Museum’s annual event is held to honor ancestors and celebrate the cycle of life and death. The parade will begin at the Tower Courtyard in Overton Square and wind its way to the museum, where the celebration will continue with art-making activities, face painting, music, costumed performers, and dance performances. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Saturday, October 27th. RiverArtsFest Growth is good, and this festival has a new home on Riverside Drive between Jefferson and Union. RiverArtsFest has grown to become the largest outdoor juried artist market and urban street festival in the Mid-South. Every year, this family-friendly festival offers local music, fine art exhibits, hands-on art activities, and live artist demonstrations. Downtown Memphis, Riverside Drive between Jefferson and Union. October 27th-28th.

WE THROW

EPIC BIRTHDAYS FOR KIDS!

THE MOST FUN YOU CAN HAVE UNDER ONE ROOF!

BOWLING • GRAVITY ROPES • LASER TAG • OVER 100 ARCADE GAMES & MORE!

PER PERSON

Your dedicated party host takes care of it all so you can relax! Book now at mainevent.com

DOUBLE ARCADE PLAY for ALL GUESTS

Birthday party can be held anytime on or before April 28, 2019

901-372-5000 • 7219 Appling Farms Parkway • Memphis, TN 38133 Birthday parties booked by Nov. 1, 2018 and held on or before April 28, 2019 can double the FUNcard value on any birthday party package purchased. FUNcard value valid for arcade game play only and cannot be used as cash or payment towards a group event. Offer good for a limited time. Offer subject to change and may end at any time without notice. 10-person minimum. Reservations required. Double FUNcard amount applies to children only attending party. Other restrictions may apply. One coupon per person per reservation. Cannot be combined with any other offer. Offer not valid with online reservations. Must bring coupon in from original advertising. Copies or duplicates or digital renditions will not be honored. Laser Tag and Gravity Ropes have a height requirement of 48” to play.

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BIG BLAST $ 95 BIRTHDAY PACKAGE 15 ONLY

COVER STORY

Memphians Gene and Rachel Williams make health a family thing

SEPTEMBER 2018

By TONYA THOMPSON

Anyone who has tried to teach healthy eating habits to their kids has likely been met with the limitation of only a few dishes in regular rotation that will be gobbled down for dinner without complaints. And of those hard-won, kid-approved meals, there’s a 99 percent chance one is mac-n-cheese (or some version of it). For the Williams family, however, organic veggies and homemade zucchini fries dominate the family menu and the secret’s not in some special sauce or fried batter, as the typical Southerner might assume. Instead, for Gene and Rachel Williams, the trick is in letting the kids get some hands-on participation in learning the ingredients and love that go into healthy, clean eating. In between their work as a yoga instructor/personal trainer (Gene) and personal chef (Rachel), the couple encourages their kids — 16-year-old Adrian and Ghianna,

who is 8 — to take an active role in the family’s daily health-conscious habits. On some days, that involves the kids watching their mother prepare “fresh, healthy, delicious edible art for the soul” for her catering and meal-prep business, Legacy by Chef Rachel Denise (chefracheldenise.com). On other days, that involves shopping for organic vegetables at the grocery store and preparing fresh food themselves. “When it comes to healthy nutrition,” says Rachel, “[you have to] allow your kids to actively participate in trips to the grocery store, farmers market, etc. Allow it to be a fun, yet educational experience. Our kids are homeschooled, so we get creative and allow them to help while at the grocery store, as well as in the kitchen. They tend to have a greater appreciation for meals they helped to prepare and/or prepared all by themselves. I've also noticed they value and respect the love and time I put into what I prepare for them and my clients. It's a win-win situation.” Some examples of health-conscious modifications that Rachel and her children use when preparing food are homemade pizzas with cauliflower crust, and naan bread instead of white bread or wheat. Instead of pork or beef,

A Middle Tennessee native, Tonya Thompson now lives in Southaven, MS with her three kids and their crazy pets.

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they use toppings like ground turkey, turkey any parent’s sausage, turkey pepperoni and chicken; and journey load every pizza with fresh organic veggies, — included a such as spinach, broccoli, squash, zucchini, lot of trial bell peppers, onions, and kale. The Williams’ and error. patience, courage, acceptance, tolerance, kids also love cauliflower mash, sweet potato That, and doing what it takes to make sure love, discipline, and responsibility. “Our kids mash, homemade zucchini fries (which their family thrived. are much more calm, balanced, and Rachel notes is a great way to get disguise a Rachel’s passion for cooking was, in fact, grounded because of yoga and meditation,” vegetable), and lasagna prepared with inspired by their son, Adrian, and his autism says Gene. “Our son, who is autistic, is so zucchini instead of pasta. diagnosis when he was 2-and-a-half years easy to redirect and rarely has meltdowns Obviously, this is not the typical diet most old. Now, he is 16 and thriving, and she children know. That’s especially true in credits much of that improvement to proper anymore. He is human and gets frustrated just as we all do but, without prompting, he America, where the childhood obesity rate nutrition. “After his diagnosis, I was a will be still and start to focus on his has hit an alarming 18.5 percent according mommy on a mission to help my son — by to the CDC’s latest statistics (2017). And any means necessary,” she says. “There was a breathing. In those moments, our hearts smile because he has been paying attention.” even though both parents are professionals time when all he'd eat was cheese and Originally from Charleston, South in the health and nutrition industry, the crackers and oatmeal, and he would only Williams’ journey to making healthy eating drink soy milk. He could never tolerate cow's Carolina and a graduate of LeMoyne Owen College, Gene runs Premier Fitness and living a family affair was one that — like milk. Because of his delicate digestive (facebook.com/PremierFitnessMemphis). In system, we began eliminating processed foods, dairy, artificial colors such as Red 40, his work as a yoga instructor for individuals and small classes, he’s often teaching at the Yellow 20, and Blue 5. The rest is history.” Mississippi Greenbelt Park in Harbor Town. Since wellness is indeed a family thing, when Rachel isn’t working with their kids on “I love being connected to nature,” he says, “and as you practice, you have all of the learning and maintaining healthy eating elements present. There's nothing like habits, Gene is teaching them yoga, which having a grounding practice while listening helps with flexibility, balance, strength, and to the birds chirp, seeing kids play, and coordination. As a yoga instructor and avid families enjoying one another. All of those yogi, he knows that there is even more variables bless my practice.” going on in the practice than these physical If raising kids is the hardest job on the benefits. “It offers countless life lessons as planet, raising healthy kids is even harder. well,” says Gene. “Yoga has a beautiful way Those of us without the professional of making us aware of how we fit into the expertise often try our best, but sometimes grand scheme of things on life's journey. it takes the professionals to show us how it When practicing the asanas or poses on the should be done. “One of the biggest tips I mat, we get a glimpse of how we are have to offer is simply to have fun,” says inflexible off of the mat.” Gene. “Be flexible in your approach to Part of the reason Gene teaches his getting your kids active and let them be children about Yoga is that he believes it instrumental in determining how they will instills concepts like compassion, empathy, maintain a healthy lifestyle.”

ANDREW MARTIN By SHARA CLARK

SEPTEMBER 2018

“Over the years it’s been a real passion of mine to find opportunities for my kids to get active and engaged,” says Andrew Martin, physical education teacher at Grahamwood Elementary School. Martin just began his sixth year at Grahamwood and works with about 550 students each week. “I try to [make available] as many different opportunities as I can because each person is unique,” he says. The school’s running club, in its third year, will host around 200 members. “Last year, we had about 150 that were there almost every week.” For the club, Martin helped form a partnership with Christian Brothers University and its head track and field coach to get the elementary and college students together throughout the year. “We do some joint practices and running,” says Martin. “Our kids think it’s the greatest thing in the world that they get to practice with college kids.” But everyone doesn’t get excited about running, so Martin has broadened the spectrum. New this year: a roller skating team. Last year, he started cross country and parkour teams. For the latter, Martin networked with Memphis Parkour, who sent coaches out to Grahamwood to work directly with the students. Martin also integrates academics into his physical fitness lessons, and

last year, he and his students important, I definitely consider that participated in the NFL Fuel Up to to be something that shaped the Play program. The initiative not only path I’m on now.” gets kids active outside of school, Martin and Lauren have a 4-yearbut also incorporates nutrition and old son Hayden, and another son, health-related coursework, with Luke, on the way. He hopes to instill corresponding assignments the same values — of proper throughout the week. nutrition and fitness — in his own “[The students] accumulated children, as he does at Grahamwood. enough hours and were invited to “I take a lot of pride in knowing that Atlanta over the summer, so they got I’m helping these kids realize how to see some NFL players, and meet important it is to be physically the commissioner for all their hard active,” he says. work,” Martin says. And Martin’s adapting to the Originally a nursing major, changing times, as well. “I’ve been Martin’s wife, Lauren, helped him researching ways that we can take see his true life path. “I was prepping technology and incorporate it into for the entrance exam, and she just physical education to where the kids could tell that I wasn’t myself,” he are active. And it will also show them says. “She opened my eyes to the they can do these things outside of passions I had for exercise and school — things they can do on their fitness, and working with kids.” phone, tablet, or computer,” he says. Martin had previously supervised a “The end goal for me is to church youth group and enjoyed develop lifelong lovers of physical being a mentor. “Whenever I was activity.” able to reflect on what was

We want to shine a light on your child’s teacher, or even a teacher who made a difference in your life. Submit your nomination today by emailing teacher@memphisparent.com.

8000 Hwy 64, Suite 101, Bartlett, TN 38133

901.386.8700 • pumpitupparty.com/bartlett-tn facebook.com/PumpItUpPartyBartlett/

BACK TO SCHOOL

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JUMP TIMES Pre-School Playtimes (6 and younger) Mon. & Tue. 10-11:30 a.m.

Open Jump (All Ages) Tue. & Thu. 3:30-5 p.m.

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Separate Party Rooms • Birthdays • Team Parties • Camps • Glow-In-The-Dark Parties • Open Jumps Weekly • Toddler Playtime

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An interactive music program for children 6 months to 5 years and their parents/caregivers

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• Organized program for Boys and Girls, Ages 3-14 Newcomers welcome to drop in for one FREE class • Emphasis on fun! • Every child plays, regardless of ability • Every child will receive a jersey • Sportsmanship, Teamwork, Effort and Classes nowweek in Midtown, East Memphis, Collierville, and Cordova Leadership are taught each Visit us on the web at www.memphisaardvarks.com or contact us at 871-0227 or info@memphisaardvarks.com

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A Kid’s Music Class that Really Rocks Come Jam with Music for Aardvarks, Memphis! An interactive music program for children 6 months to 5 years and their parents/caregivers

Fall Registration Now Open! • Great Music • Live guitar and storytelling, singing and dancing • Fun for parents too! • Great for special events, & school programs Newcomers welcome to drop in for one FREE class CLASSES IN MIDTOWN AND EAST MEMPHIS Visit us at www.memphisaardvarks.com or call 871-0227 for more info

To pre-qualify for this study, your child must: • Be 3 to 10 years of age

Nearsightedness can keep your child from seeing clearly.

• Have been diagnosed with nearsightedness All study-related visits, tests, and drugs will be provided at no cost. In addition, up to $200 per year will be provided for glasses or contact lenses.

To learn more, please contact:

Learn more about CHAMP – the study of an investigational eye drop being evaluated to slow the progression of nearsightness in children.

CH ILDHOOD A TROPINE FOR M YO PI A PRO GRESSION

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Randy Brafford, Study Coordinator rbrafford@sco.edu, 901-252-3660 or visit thechampstudy.com

ONE COOL MOM

COTTON TAILS TURNS 30 Memphis retailer continues to shine by JANE SCHNEIDER

The children’s store Cotton Tails marks an impressive milestone this month, with the celebration of its 30th anniversary. If you’ve shopped their store at Laurelwood, then you know it’s brimming with colorful clothes, baby goods, even cool fashions for teens. Miki Brugge’s successful run in the fashion world was recognized in 2013 by Earnshaw magazine, the go-to trade pub for children’s wear, by inducting her into their Hall of Fame. “Many of her vendors have an overwhelming respect for how she does business,” noted editor Audrey Kingo, stating Brugge has had a “lasting impact” on the industry.

SEPTEMBER 2018

M c K E N N A . M E M P H I S P A R E N T, J U N 20 1 6 W A R D R O B E P R O V I D E D B Y C OT TO N TA I L S

LEARNING THE TRADE Brugge cut her teeth in retail as a teen at Goldsmith’s (now Macy’s). During her 20s, she learned the nuts and bolts of the business, eventually rising to fashion buyer. Then, at age 32 (and with two preschoolers in tow), she left Macy’s to open Cotton Tails at the Oak Court Mall. “Many girls want to do a store part-time,

A N N A , D AV I D , A N D M I K I B R U G G E

but it takes a lot of work,” she notes. “They selecting fashions she thinks Memphis moms can go to market but forget about taking will love. care of the customer. I’ve always been “I always try to have a plan,” she adds. adamant — the customer always comes first.” “Even if something is beautiful and great, it Business was slow at first; Miki’s taste has to be profitable.” didn’t always match that of her customers. “My mom listens to her customers, her Born in Japan, she’s always had a more global buyers, friends, and [she watches our] sales esthetic. But she observed what moms were patterns. She’s always trying to think ahead buying, and steadily, sales grew. She moved of the game,” says Anna, who returned to a bigger space at Laurelwood Shopping home two years ago to help manage the Center several years later. family business. By then, Cotton Tails had become a Anna is a graduate of Marist College and family affair. Her husband, commercial artist worked 12 years in the fashion industry in David Brugge, handled marketing and New York, largely as an editorial stylist for photography while producing in-store Free People and Shopbop. “Fashion’s been displays that were “like works of art!” notes my life,” she says. “I’ve been lucky to have daughter Anna Brugge. Then a tween, Anna strong mentors like my mom throughout my helped create Sachi, a spirited clothing store career.” Now Anna is a buyer for Sachi. for teens and young women. Several years later, opportunity knocked again as Miki pondered a move that would double their store size. Her father-in-law considered it risky business. “So I went home and thought about it,” she says. “But I’d always loved this building and I had a great feeling about it.” Trusting her instincts, Miki moved to their present location and in two years time, the store had paid for itself. “My FIL later told me, ‘I’m so glad you didn’t listen to me!’” RELATIONSHIPS MATTER Miki’s success has been built on customer service and long-lasting relationships with vendors and clients. She also sticks with companies she believes in. She introduced Tea three times before the line finally took off. Today, it remains one of her strongest sellers. She’s also discerning, buying a season of clothing from one designer while cherry picking from another, always mindful of

K H LO E . M E M P H I S P A R E N T, N O V 20 1 6 W A R D R O B E P R O V I D E D B Y C OT TO N TA I L S

Over the years, many children’s stores have come and gone. But Memphis parents still throng to Cotton Tails to snap up the latest in kids fashions and receive help from staff who stay true to Miki’s mission, by putting customers first.

Jane Schneider is a Memphis-based journalist. She was the editor of Memphis Parent for 17 years. 20

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Join us for an Early Childhood Open House November 8, 9:00am

FEATURE

YOUR PLAYGROUND AWAITS Creative play and kid-friendly activities at Crosstown • by JEFF HULETT

SEPTEMBER 2018

P H OTO S B Y S AVA N N A H B E A R D E N

As a dad, I’m always on the lookout for fun things to do with my girls, but after a while you can get stuck in a rut when it comes to ideas. Of course we love Overton Park and Shelby Farms, but it’s hot! And yes, the Children’s Museum of Memphis and Brooks Museum are awesome, and provide some shelter from the elements, but what about a place that offers a variety of fun activities under one roof?

Thankfully, Crosstown Concourse — just a hop, skip, and jump from my house in the Vollintine Evergreen neighborhood — is filling in some gaps for the Hulett family. On any warm day driving down Cleveland, you can see the Concourse plaza covered with kids and families, biking around and splashing in the water fountains. However, what might not be so obvious is all of the free arts, education, and wellness programming happening inside. From arts camps and activities at Crosstown Arts and dance lessons in the central atrium to kids yoga at the Church Health YMCA, the former Sears building is redefining itself as a hub for family fun. Whether it’s the kids reading nook or story time on the theatre stairs, cruising the always-changing art galleries, listening to music, or playing games like pinball, there's

so much to do, and most of it is free. Warning: It’s impossible, however, to not indulge in either a tasty Mempop or matchless ice cream from Area 51. I suggest both. Does your kid like art? No problem. Crosstown Arts offers several artist-led workshops that teach collaboration as well as creativity. Workshops fill up fast so make sure to sign up today. Does your kid like whipping up new recipes? Church Health kitchen offers tons of different cooking classes for kids and families that range from beginners to the more seasoned chef. "It's been an electrifying summer! Over 50 middle- and high-school kids from all over the city participated in free, artist-led workshops via our programming," says Crosstown Arts community theatre coordinator Jazmin Miller. “The students

The Well while you get fit or work on your next project. Crosstown Concourse’s ecosystem encourages fitness, nutrition and wellness throughout and is built for infants to the elderly. There really is something for everyone. Just look at the newly minted Crosstown High School — 150 students learning and growing together alongside leaders in healthcare, arts, and education. The best part about exploring Crosstown with your kids is not knowing where you might end up. It truly is a choose-your-own adventure scenario. Recently, I took my kids to ballet in the Creative Movement studio at Church Health. The next thing I knew, we were eating a fun family lunch at Next Door,

sampling some new Mempops, playing chase on the theatre stairs, checking out all of the new art in the galleries, and getting our photo made in the Amurica photo booth, strategically placed in the main atrium. With only a year under its belt, the impact of this extraordinary endeavor of adaptive reuse is already garnering international attention. As Memphians, we should appreciate having a new playground to take our kids, too. To see all the different activities you and your family can experience at Crosstown Concourse on any given week, visit the events page at crosstownconcourse.com/ events.

Jeff Hulett is married with two daughters and lives in midtown. He tells lots of dad jokes.

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

participated in beat battles that they created in shared art-making, learned recipes from our own Chef Raymond, displayed original art in exhibitions, featured their short films in a film festival, and graced the West Atrium with a flash mob. These budding artists were able to be a part of something that was truly collaborative, and they were also able to actively contribute to the creative community of Memphis.” If your kid is looking for creative play opportunities, look no further than The Well at Church Health. With a motto of “eat better, get moving, have fun,” your kids can’t lose, and if you are a member of the YMCA or a Shared Lab, you can leave your kids in

SEPTEMBER CALENDAR COMMUNIT Y DAY: OUTINGS PROJECT MEMPHIS BROOKS MUSEUM OF ART

September 28 ∙ Friday 5-7p.m.

Celebrate the new Brooks Outside exhibit, Outings Project, with music, art making, and food. Artist Julien de Casabianca completes an installation on the museum’s facade and gives a talk in the auditorium.

7 p.m. Free. 544-6200. 1 ∙ SATURDAY

Delta Fair & Music Festival. The Agricenter. Through September 9. Features 60 carnival rides, music, attractions, livestock, crafts, culinary & collectibles, demolition derby, contests, and fair food. $10/adult. $5/child ages 5-12. Free for children 4 and under. Wristband: $25/person. Family Fun Pack discounts available at Kroger. Visit deltafest.com or call 867-7007 for details.

SEPTEMBER 2018

30 Days of Opera. At various locations across Memphis and the Mid-South. Through September 30. Opera Memphis presents totally free opera performances at the Germantown Festival, Cooper-Young Festival, South Main Trolley Night, the Memphis Farmers Market, the Levitt Shell (September 23), and more. Free. Visit 30daysofopera.com for details.

Chucalissa Family Day. C. H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa. Saturdays at 10 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Family programs and craft activities change weekly. Sept. 1: Prehistoric Sports & Hunting/Pottery. Sept. 8: Stone Tools/ Talking Sticks. Sept. 15: Trash Talks/Snake Painting. Sept. 22: Mystery Box/Beading. Sept. 29: Music/Coloring Books. Activities include museum tour, throwing darts with an atlatl, scavenger hunt, the hands-on-lab tour, an educational program, and creating a keepsake craft to take home. $6/adult. $4/child (ages 4-11). Free for children 3 and under. 785-3160.

Get Outside! Fitness: Yoga for Kids. Shelby Farms Park. Saturdays, from 11 a.m. until noon. Free. 222-7275. Wild Lunch at Lichterman. Lichterman Nature Center. Tuesdays through Saturday at noon. Free with admission. 636-2210.

Open Rehearsals with The Memphis Boychoir & Girlchoir. Saint John’s Episcopal Church. Wednesdays, 3:30-5:30 p.m. Join afternoon rehearsals with the Memphis Boychoir & Girlchoir to experience a 30-year Memphis tradition. Free. 323-8597.

6 ∙ THURSDAY

3 ∙ MONDAY Sprouts. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Tea & Toddlers. Universal Parenting Place Thursdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Interactive (UPP) @ Christ Community Health program for toddlers encourages creative Services. Mondays from noon until 2:45 play. $8. Reservations required. 761-5250. p.m. Free. RSVP to brittany.hart@christchs. org or call 701-2871 for details. Whet Thursday: End of Summer Luau. Metal Museum. 5-8 p.m. Features live 4 ∙ TUESDAY music by Impala, food from Stickem, a Tiki Mini Masters. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. bar, and Hawaiian yard games. Wear your Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. ParentHawaiian shirt or grass skirt and dance the toddler workshop. $8/child. Call 761-5250 night away. Free. 774-6380. to pre-register and pre-pay by noon the day before class. Orion Free Music Concert Series. Levitt Shell. Through October 21. Thursday 5 ∙ WEDNESDAY through Sunday at 7 p.m. Grab a chair or Toddler Time. UPP @ Baptist Memorial blanket and pick your spot on the lawn to Hospital for Women. Meets Wednesdays enjoy family-friendly concerts. Coolers and from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Parent-toddler picnics are welcome. Free. 272-2722. play group. Free. 227-9558. Music for Aardvarks. UPP @ Christ Community Health Services. On select Wednesdays (September 5 & 19), from noon until 1 p.m. Early childhood music class for children ages 6 months to 6 years. Free. RSVP to brittany.hart@christchs.org or call 701-2871 for details.

7 ∙ FRIDAY

19th Annual Hummingbird Migration and Nature Celebration. Strawberry Plains Audubon Center in Holly Springs, MS. September 7-9, from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m. Highlights include banding and releasing of ruby-throated hummingbirds, wagon rides, live animal shows, kids activity zone, guest speakers, nature-themed arts and crafts vendors, and native plant sale. $15/adult.

By MEENA VISWANATHAN

Discovery Fridays: Trees. Bobby Lanier Farm Park. On select Fridays (September 7, 14, & 28), 10-11 a.m. Ages 3-5. Learn about work at the farm, gardening, and living the “green life.” $10/session. Parents are encouraged to stay on the park premises. Come dressed for outdoor activities. Gloves and closed-toe shoes required. Go to germantown-TN.gov to register. Mom and Baby Yoga. UPP @ Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. On select Fridays (September 7 & 21), 10-11 a.m. Geared for children ages one and under. Free. 227-9558.

8 ∙ SATURDAY

47th Annual Germantown Festival. Germantown Civic Club Complex. 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Also on Sunday, September 9, from noon until 6 p.m. This two-day festival features nearly 400 arts & crafts vendors, children’s activities, rides and games, live entertainment, the annual Running of the Weenies Dachshund Race on Saturday morning, vintage car display on Sunday, and food. Free. 757-9212. Children’s Theatre Festival. Music Park in Harbor Town. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. SunFish Children’s Theatre presents this arts festival featuring crafts, activities, balloon animals, yard games, performances, and door prizes. Also learn about area children’s theatre and art programs. Free. Visit sunfishct.com for details. Doggie Dip. YMCA at Schilling Farms. 12:30-1:45 p.m. for small dogs (25 lbs. or smaller) and 2-3:30 p.m. for dogs of all sizes. Bring your dogs to the YMCA and let them swim and play in the outdoor pool. $20/dog. Benefits the Collierville Animal Shelter. Call 850-9622 for policy requirements.

11 ∙ TUESDAY

Caterpillar Club: Shapes in the Garden. Memphis Botanic Garden (MBG). On select Tuesdays & Wednesdays (September

11 & 12 and 25 & 26), 10-11 a.m. Choose Tuesday or Wednesday session. Ages 2-5. Six-class semester fee: $75. Call 636-4122 to register.

12 ∙ WEDNESDAY

Food Truck Garden Party: Medieval Merriment. MBG. 5-8 p.m. Features live music by Movie Night, a play zone, and food from local food trucks. Guests enjoy a pedestal jousting ring while kids take part in crafts. $10/person. 636-4100.

14 ∙ FRIDAY

Park + Pajamas Family Camp Out. Shelby Farms Park. 6 p.m.-9 a.m. This overnight adventure includes a guided nocturnal nature hike, an outdoor movie, stargazing, s’more making, crafts, breakfast, and snacks. $10/person. Reservations required. 222-7275.

15 ∙ SATURDAY

Evolve Bank and Trust presents the 31st Annual Cooper-Young Festival. CooperYoung District. 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Street celebration taking place in the city’s largest historic district features music, arts & crafts, kid’s zone, food, and vendors. Free. 276-7222. Kids in the Garden: Blooms and Butterﬂies. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. 10 a.m. until noon. Young horticulturists ages 7-10 learn about fall plants and pollinators. Also make your own potted butterﬂy garden to take home. $15. Snack and tools included. Reservations required. 761-5250. Dance Open House. Ballet on Wheels Dance School & Company. 10:30 a.m. until noon. Come in and try a class for free. 870-4348. Be the Peace Frayser Festival. Ed Rice Community Center. 3-6 p.m. Familyfriendly festival features live music by African Jazz Ensemble, arts & crafts, food, and more. Free. Visit playbackmemphis.org for details. Opening Night at the Scheidt. Harris Concert Hall @ University of Memphis. 7:30 p.m. A preview of the Memphis

concert season performed by artists from the Rudi E. Scheidt School of Music. Free. 678-2541.

16 ∙ SUNDAY

Stomp in the Swamp. Lichterman Nature Center. 5-8 p.m. Features live entertainment by Aaron Shires, special appearance of Sister Myotis, square dance demo, children’s activities, scarecrows on display, BBQ & Bidding, silent auction featuring crafts fair items, gift certificates to local restaurants, and more. $15/adult. $7/child ages 5-10. Free for children under 5. Purchase tickets on eventbrite.com or call 636-2362 for details.

22 ∙ SATURDAY

Peanut Butter & Jam: Obruni Dance Band. Germantown Performing Arts Center. 9:30 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. Children ages 2-8 join the Obruni Dance Band led by Memphis musician Adam Holton and experience the rhythms, movement, and joy of African pop music. $8/child. Includes up to two adults. 751-7500.

International Spotlight. Morton Museum of Collierville History. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Take a trip around the world experiencing different cultures through music, performances, crafts, and food. Free. 457-2650. Kubo and the Two Strings Movie Night. MBG. Gates open at 6 p.m. Movie begins at 7:15 p.m. Celebrate the opening of Origami in the Garden exhibit with a movie and activities. Features martial arts demo by local schools, origami fun in the Live Garden, photo opportunity, kettle corn, and food trucks. $12/person. Visit memphisbotanicgarden.com for advance reservations.

23 ∙ SUNDAY

Tram Tours of Origami In the Garden exhibit. MBG. Noon until 3 p.m. Also on Friday, September 28, from 10 a.m. until noon. Join docents for a tram tour of the new outdoor exhibit Origami in the Garden. Tram leaves every 20 minutes from the tram bed. Free with admission. 636-4100.

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$5/child ages 5-12. Free for children 4 and under. Visit strawberry.audubon.org or call (662) 252-1155 for details.

28 ∙ FRIDAY

Swimming Lessons

Year ‘round in our HEATED indoor pool!

• Group Lessons • Private Swim Lessons • Adult Swim Lessons • Baby & Me Classes -Ages 2mo and Up

Community Day: Outings Project. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. 5-7 p.m. Celebrate the new Brooks Outside exhibit, Outings Project, with music, art making, and food. Artist Julien de Casabianca completes an installation on the museum’s facade and gives a talk in the auditorium at 7 p.m. Free. 544-6200.

We have swim packages for all age groups. SAVE MONEY! We have small class ratios... Do you need SPECIALTY Training? We are definitely the place for you!

CALL(BRENNA) SWIM901-300-0384 SCHOOLS Gift Cards make great gifts! 999 South Yates, Memphis, TN 901-763-3483 www.diveshop1.com

“ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER HAS BROADWAY ROCKING!” – REUTERS

Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library. 1-4 p.m. Celebrate Talk Like a Pirate Day with a carnival-style event. Features pirate games and crafts, musical performances, interactive stations, live exotic birds, a mermaid “shellfie” station, and food trucks. Free. 415-2627.

SEPTEMBER 2018

2018 Bartlett Fall Festival, MBN Patio BBQ Contest & Car Show. W.J. Freeman Park. 6-9:30 p.m. Also on Saturday, September 29, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Judge Freeman Marr 5K starts at 8:00 a.m. Friday evening

29 ∙ SATURDAY

VOICE POWER! Halloran Centre @ The Orpheum. 10 a.m. VOICE POWER, part of the new Saturday Series is an interactive performance featuring actor/poet/activist Darian Dauchan. He takes youngsters on a vocal odyssey through rhymes, beat-boxing, live looping, and a cappella melodies in search of the power of the voice! $15/person. 525-3000.

30 ∙ SUNDAY

Memphis Japan Festival. MBG. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Celebrate the country and culture of Japan with music, dance, martial arts, a roving Japanese candyman, and Taiko. $5/adult. $2.50/ child ages 2-12. Free for children under 2. Includes garden admission. Visit memphisjapanfestival.org for details.

Memphis Wind Symphony Children and Family Concert. Benjamin L. Hooks Library. 3-5 p.m. This interactive family event features a live symphonic band, instrument petting zoo provided by Amro Music, and a hands-on conducting experience. Free. 415-2700.

ONGOING EVENTS OCT 9 - 14 • ORPHEUM THEATRE Orpheum-Memphis.com • Groups: (901) 529-4226

P I R AT E S R A I D AT THE HOOKS LIBR ARY

kicks off with a midway carnival, live music, and vendors. Saturday highlights include the Judge Freeman Marr Panther Pride 5K Run, local music, arts & crafts, a car show, children’s activities, awards for BBQ contest, and concessions. Free. 385-5589.

MUSEUMS AND EXHIBITS

Memphis Botanic Garden. Origami at the Garden. September 21 through March

24. An exhibition of 17 outdoor sculptures and three indoor unfolded cast wall hangings displayed throughout 31 specialty gardens. 636-4100.

CTI 3D Giant Theater. America’s Musical Journey 3D. Through November 16. A cross-country adventure explores the musical heritage of America and the cultural cities where music was born. Journey to the South Paciﬁc 3D. Through November 16. Dream Big 3D. Through November 16. 636-2362.

30 Thursdays: Walk after Work. Memphis Botanic Garden. Thursday, September 20, at 6 p.m. Explore the 96-acre garden walking along trails and pathways. Free with admission. 636-4100.

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

Saturday Morning Unwind Sessions. Church Health Meditation Chapel. Saturdays at 9:30 a.m. Unwind and refocus with instructors Greg Graber and Rob Dove every week. Free. Go to churchhealth.org/events for details.

Fairy Tale Trail 2018: Peter Pan Parent Meeting. Germantown Community Theatre (GCT). Tuesday, September 4, 5:306:30 p.m. Parents of children ages 6 and up and their children. GCT stages a fairy tale trail on AutoZone Dome at the Sharpe Saturday, October 27, at Bobby Planetarium. Phantom of the Universe. Through September 30. Lanier Park as part of the city of Show explores dark matter from Germantown’s Fall Fest. Rehearsals begin the week of the Big Bang to its anticipated September 10. $20 fee for discovery at the Large Hadron participation in the program. Go Collider. Seasonal Stargazing. to gctcomeplay.org to register. Ongoing. Perfect Little Planet. Until further notice. One World, Kaleidoscope Club. Leatherman One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure. Art Studio @ Dixon Gallery and Until further notice. 636-2362. Gardens. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. Ages 5-9. $8. Snack provided. Lichterman Nature Center. Call 761-5250 to register. Annual Scarecrow Display. September 13 through Breastfeeding Class. Baptist November 30. Custom made Women’s Hospital. Thursday, scarecrows created by September 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m. businesses, organizations, $30. Call 227-9873 to register. groups, and individuals decorate the lawns of Lichterman. 636Mid-Day Mindfulness in Motion 2211. Yoga. UPP @ Christ Community OTHER PROGRAMS Health Services. On select Magevney House Tour. Fridays (September 7 & 21), from Magevney House. Open first noon until 1 p.m. Free. RSVP to Saturday (September 1), 1-4 p.m. brittany.hart@christchs.org or Admission is free. 523-1484. call 701-2871 for details. Mallory-Neely House Tour. Mallory-Neely House, 652 Adams Avenue. Fridays & Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. $9/ adult. $5/child (ages 3 and up). 523-1484.

Sibling Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Saturday, September 8, from 10 a.m. until noon. This interactive class prepares children ages 3-10 for arrival of their new sibling. $20/child. Call

Building a foundation that lasts a lifetime

Coed Pre-K2 – 8th grade

Open House

Sunday, October 14, 2018 1:30 – 3:00 pm

4841 Park Avenue Memphis, TN 38117 901.685.1231 www.holyrosarymemphis.org

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

The Pink Palace Museum. Dugout Canoes: Paddling Through the Americas. Through September 14. Exhibit highlights include more than 100 museum artifacts from Florida to the Pacific Northwest, hands-on interactives, and four short films showcasing the dugout canoes. Remembering the Dream, Connections Exhibit 2018. Through January 27. 636-2362.

227-9873 to register. Saturday Sketch. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Saturday, September 8, 10-11 a.m. Ages 15 and up. Free with admission. 761-5250.

“The great end in religious instruction, is not to stamp our minds upon the young, but to stir up their own; not to make them see with our eyes, but to look inquiringly and steadily with their own; not to give them a definite amount of knowledge, but to inspire a fervent love of truth….” — William Ellery Channing Unitarian Universalist

If you’re looking for a loving community to help your kids grow up to be open-minded, kind and respectful, and to stand up for what’s right,

SEPTEMBER 2018

we invite you to join us.

First Unitarian Church of Memphis 292 Virginia Avenue West (next to the Big River Crossing)

African Family Drum Circle. UPP @ Christ Community Health Services. On select Tuesdays (September 11 & 25), 1:30-2:30 p.m. Free. RSVP to brittany.hart@christchs.org or call 701-2871 for details. Novel Writing Workshop. Cordova Branch Library. Tuesday, September 11, 6-7:30 p.m. Local author Bill Webb leads an introductory course (once a month for 10 months) on how to produce your novels. Free. 415-2700. START HERE Library Health Fair. Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library. Saturday, September 15, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Features health organizations including UT Pharmacy School, East Arkansas Family Health Center, Baptist Memorial Healthcare, and more. Free. 415-2700. Saturday Childbirth Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Saturday, September 15, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. $75. Call 227-9873 to register. A Lifeline to Hope: How to Recognize & Help Prevent Suicide. Meeting Room C @ Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library. Wednesday, September 19, 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Baptist Health Care presents this Healthy Living Speaker Series featuring a story of survival from successful business woman Roquita C. Williams. Learn about local suicide and mental health resources from Mike LaBonte, executive director of the Memphis Crisis Center. Free. Light lunch provided. 415-2700.

Expectant Parents Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Saturday, September 22, from 9 a.m. until noon. $30. Call 2279873 to register. Dynamic Dads Workshop. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Saturday, September 22, 12:30-4 p.m. Free. Registration required. 227-9873. Parent Topic Night: Comfort Measures with Amy Coontz. Meeting Room A @ Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library. Thursday, September 27, 6:30-8 p.m. Memphis Birth Collective presents this labor pain management session with local doula and childbirth educator Amy Coontz. Free. 415-2700.

CO L L E G E AU D I T I O N PREP WORKSHOP Halloran Centre @ The Orpheum. Saturday, September 29, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Grades 9-12. Students participate in dance, monologue, and song workshops in preparation for college auditions. A professional photographer is available to take headshots for an additional fee. $100. E-mail education@orpheummemphis.com to register. Make Your Own: Gold Leafing. Metal Museum. Saturday, September 29. Two sessions offered, from 10 a.m. until noon and 2:30-4:30 p.m. Children ages 7 and up learn how to apply gold leaf to everyday objects. Bring your own small object or pick one from the Metal Museum collection. $10/project.

Trio Festivale. Harris Concert Hall @ University of Memphis. HOME SCHOOL Thursday, September 6, at 7:30 CLASSES p.m. The ensemble performs Home School Day. Memphis “The Great Hunger” in their U.S. Brooks Museum of Art. Thursday, tour. Free. 678-2541. September 13, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Homeschool families are Memphis Made – Center Stage welcome to choose from a presents Kris Acklen and his variety of activities that includes Band CD Release Party. a drop-in art making studio, Buckman Arts Center @ St. guided tours, and gallery Mary’s School. Friday, activities. Free. 544-6200. September 7, at 8 p.m. Homegrown singer-songwriter FUND-RAISERS Kris Acklen releases his CD Art of Dinner. Church Health Millennidate at the Buckman. Nutrition Hub. Friday, $10/person. 537-1483. September 7, at 6 p.m. In this interactive cooking class, chef Memphis Matters Show Joshua House guides through a (Frayser Matters). Bellevue three course menu. $65. Frayser. Friday, September 14, Benefits the nutrition 7:30-9 p.m. The show offers programming at the Church audiences an opportunity to Health Nutrition Hub. Go to connect to the heart of churchhealth.org for tickets. Memphis through improvisational theatre, personal Empowering Women: In narrative, and community Business. In Healthcare. In Life. dialogue. Go to Temple Israel. Wednesday, playbackmemphis.org for details. September 12, 7-9 p.m. Team Soul to Sole and Women of Delta Rae. Buckman Arts Center Reform Judaism – Temple Israel @ St. Mary’s School. Sunday, Sisterhood presents this panel September 16, at 7 p.m. Delta discussion with community Rae brings a mix of gospel, leaders and breast cancer country, rock, Americana, and survivors. Channel 3 (WREG) soul music to the Buckman stage. reporter Stacy Jacobson $35/adult. $25/child. 537-1483. moderates this event featuring Susan G. Komen Foundation and Sisters United. The Orpheum. CEO Paula Schneider and Tuesday, September 18, at 8 p.m. president of Rhodes College Dr. Sisters United: It’s Our Time is a Marjorie Hass. Program also movement of powerful women includes a mini health fair, food, who come together to uplift and door prizes. Free. Space with music, comedy, motivation, limited. Go to bit.ly/soul2sole to and empowerment. The register for the event. performance also celebrates and showcases a local female THEATRE entrepreneur by making a PERFORMANCES contribution to her business. Love Never Dies. The Orpheum. $48-$68. Call 525-3000 for September 4-9. Tuesday through tickets. Friday at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 2 & 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 & 6:30 p.m. Ben Rector w/The Band Camino. Ages 12 and up. The ultimate love The Orpheum. Wednesday, story continues in this Andrew September 19, at 8 p.m. This Lloyd Webber sequel to The Nashville-based singer, Phantom of the Opera. $25-$125. songwriter, and multiCall 525-3000 for tickets. instrumentalist entertains Reservations required. 7746380.

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audience with his seventh full-length offering titled Magic. $29-$45. Call 5253000 for tickets. An Evening with John Popper. Buckman Arts Center @ St. Mary’s School. Thursday, September 20, at 7 p.m. Buckman kicks off the new season with harmonica virtuoso and Blues Traveler front man John Popper. Singer-songwriter Katrina Woolverton performs an opening set. $37. Call 537-1483 for details. The Latin Soul in You. Evergreen Theatre. September 21 & 22 and 28 & 29 at 8 p.m. Ages 12 and up. Cazateatro Bilingual Theatre Group presents this play. $20/adult. $15/ child. 662-469-6085.

SEPTEMBER 2018

Southern Comfort Jazz Orchestra. Harris Concert Hall @ University of Memphis. Thursday, September 27, 7:30 p.m. $15/ person. 678-2541.

PreK-6. Story Time at Morton Museum of Collierville History 196 N. Main St., 457-2650 On Fridays, 10:30-11 a.m. Ages 5 and under. Enjoy a new story theme each week with songs, related craft, and snack. Free. Story Time at Civil Rights Museum 450 Mulberry St., 521-9699 Small but Mighty Story Time. Wednesday, September 5, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Museum educator Dory Lerner presents this special read-aloud session for preschoolers in conjunction with Memphis Reads Festival theme – Underground Railroad. Free. Germantown Community Library 1925 Exeter Rd., 757-7323 Talk Like a Pirate Day Crafts. Wednesday, September 19, 5:15-6:30 p.m. Celebrate International Talk Like a Pirate Day creating foam pirate hats and paper parrots. Free.

Shakespeare Shout-Out: The Two Gentlemen of Verona. Benjamin L. Hooks Central Library. Saturday, September 29, 2-3:30 p.m. Tennessee Shakespeare Company performs this show in the lobby as part of their traveling series. Free. 415-2700.

Whole Foods Story Time @ Whole Foods of Germantown. Fridays at 10 a.m. Children ages 5 and under are invited to join for stories, interactive songs, crafts, and snacks. Free.

Dennis Quaid and The Sharks. Halloran Centre @ The Orpheum. Saturday, September 29, at 7:30 p.m. Actor turned rockstar Dennis Quaid performs classic hits such as “Spill the Wine” and “Gloria” as part of On Stage at the Halloran Centre. $45. Call 525-3000 for tickets.

Stop by your local branch or go to memphislibrary.org for a complete listing of library events.

MEMPHIS LIBRARY EVENTS

Barnes & Noble Booksellers The Avenue Carriage Crossing Mall, 8533264 Saturdays at 11 a.m. Ages 1-6.

CENTRAL 3030 Poplar Ave., 415-2700 CLOUD901 Classes & Events: CLOUD901 is the library’s state-of-the-art Teen Learning Lab that includes a music studio, a video production lab, an art studio, Makerspace, gaming zone, and a performance stage. Open to teens ages 13-18 with a Memphis library card. Go to memphislibrary.org/ cloud901 for a class list. ★ Gadget Lab for Kids. Tuesdays, 4-5 p.m. Children ages 6-12 learn about apps and games available on the library’s gadgets. ★ Long Live the King! Wednesdays, 6-8 p.m. Free chess tutorials for teens and adult beginners. ★ Crafternoon. Thursdays, 4-5 p.m. Children ages 6-12 enjoy stories and crafts. Registration required for groups.

Barnes & Noble Booksellers 2774 N. Germantown Pkwy., 386-2468 Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. Ages

CORDOVA 8457 Trinity Rd., 754-8443 ★ Free Beginners Spanish Class. Thursdays,

Artrageous. Buckman Arts Center @ St. Mary’s School. Sunday, September 30, at 7 p.m. The Artrageous troupe of painters, musicians, singers, and dancers pays tribute to a variety of art forms, pop icons, and musical genres, culminating in a gallery of finished paintings. $35/adult. $25/child. 537-1483.

STORY TIME AT AREA BOOKSTORES AND MUSEUMS

4:30-5:30 p.m. Learn to speak basic Spanish words. ★ Kids Career Day. Saturday, September 8, 11-11:45 a.m. Children learn about what everyone does for work. ★ International Story Time. Saturday, September 15, 11-11:45 a.m. Learn about the country of Romania with stories, music, arts, games, and snacks. ★ Johnny Appleseed Day. Saturday, September 22, 11-11:45 a.m. Celebrate Johnny Appleseed Day with apple snacks, stories, and apple print pictures. ★ Family Movie Madness: Bartok the Magniﬁcent. Saturday, September 29, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Watch a movie, enjoy jungle snacks, and stay to make a takehome craft. EAST SHELBY 2700 East Shelby Dr., 751-7360 ★ Operation Occupation! Thursday, September 13, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Children ages 6-12 build team and interpersonal skills engaging in games and activities. FRAYSER 3712 Argonne St., 357-4115 ★ Art Escape for Children. Thursday, September 13, 4-5 p.m. Children ages 6-12 create miniature reptiles using masking tape. ★ Teens Exploring Art: Painting Outside. Tuesday, September 25, 4-5 p.m. Teens learn about Impressionism, 19th century art movement that had visible brush strokes and emphasizes on accurate depiction of light. ★ Teens “Writing Your Own Story.” Wednesday, September 26, 4-5 p.m. Teens explore different methods/styles of writing. POPLAR-WHITE STATION 5094 Poplar Ave., 682-1616 ★ Co-Motion Studio: Hooping Fun. Wednesday, September 12, 3:45-4:45 p.m. Children ages 6-12 learn how to hula hoop with Co-Motion Studio. ★ Harry Potter Wands & Movie. Thursday, September 27, 3-5:30 p.m. Kids celebrate Banned Books Week by making their own wands and watching Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone while enjoying Butterbeer.

Join representatives from public, er th o d an l, ia ch o ar p r, te ar ch , te va ri p er ev trs fi e th at ls o o h sc y it un m m co Mid-South School Expo!

SATURDAY

Oct 27 M E M P H I S B OTA N I C G A R D E N S I N H A R D I N H A L L

9AM until NOON For more info, please visit

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