Memphis Parent, June 2018 by Contemporary Media

J U N •2 0 1 8 T H E DA D I S S U E

J.J. GREER: SOCCER DAD DESTINATION

SUMMER FUN! PLUS

THIS MONTH’S OUTSTANDING TEACHER AND

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PD Parrot’s

Back to School Health Fair

Join us for free health screenings, health and nutrition information, activities, crafts and a chance to win a back-pack filled with school supplies.

Saturday, July 21, 2018 9 am – 12 pm 6225 Humphreys Blvd.

PREVENTING THE SUMMER SLIDE

J.J. GREER: FROM PITCH TO PARENT

By Jennifer Boren

By Samuel X. Cicci

All giveaways will be distributed on a first come, first served basis.

Please call 901-227-9031 or visit www.baptistonline.org/pediatrics

DIGGING FOR TREASURE

CRUISING WITH KIDS

By Jeff Hulett

By Michelle McKissack

A day trip to the mines is a great way to unplug

6 Dear Teacher Is summer homework necessary?

12 Health Matters When children face grief

8 901 Fun Concerts, movies, and the great outdoors

14 Outstanding Teacher Celebrating unsung heroes

OUR STAFF Editor Michelle McKissack

Art Director Bryan Rollins Advertising Art Director Christopher Myers Graphic Designer Jeremiah Matthews

JMUANYE 2 2001 8 18

Production Operations Director Margie Neal

Get Better.

Sail away for adventure with the entire family

DEPARTMENTS

Account Executive Mary Ballard

901-227-9031

Former soccer player J.J. Greer returns home to prepare for triplets

Advertising Manager Sheryl Butler

baptistonline.org/pediatrics

Managing Editor Shara Clark

All children must be accompanied by an adult.

memphisparent

THIS MONTH

How to keep your child reading all summer long

at Children’s Choice at the Memphis Service Center

memphis-parent

24 Calendar and Events Summer reading programs, activities, and more 30 Favorite Moments Kid funnies and photos

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 Leila Zetchi Controller Ashley Haeger IT Director Joseph Carey Advertising Assistant Roxy Matthews

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.

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Ages 6 weeks - PreK Monday- Friday 7 a.m.- 6 p.m.

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michelle@memphisparent.com

SUMMER IS JUST A SONG AWAY There are two songs that completely take me to a different place in time, and they have the same vibe — escaping to a getaway where there is plenty of crystal clear, blue water. I know I’m about to date myself (I was a tween when these songs first came out), but I’m talking about “Margaritaville” by Jimmy Buffett, a classic, and another song that may be lesser known, “Sailing” by Christopher Cross. I absolutely go ga-ga and drive my kids crazy, especially my teen sons, when I turn on WRVR in the car and “my jams” come on the radio. I croon along to the soft-rock hit — “Sailing takes me away to where I’ve always heard it could be” — like no one is listening. But not only are my car companions listening, they’re rolling their proverbial critical eyes in amusement. Nevertheless, those songs immediately transport me to some amazing vacations I’ve had over the years. On a few occasions it has been with just my husband, but oftentimes with the entire family. Such was the case recently when my husband and I took our brood of four kids on a cruise for the first time. This was quite a feat to accomplish an excursion that kept the entire family happy because of the age range for our kids: 7, 15, 16, and 20 years old. A cruise was the perfect solution to accommodate varied interests. You’ll read more about that experience in a feature story in this issue (page 22). But the bottom line is that whether you go sailing off somewhere or keep closer to home with a “staycation” exploring all the adventures in your own backyard, creating family time is essential in building memories that your family can share for years down the road. And while you’re at it, find your song so that every time you hear, it takes you right back to where you knew you could be. Have a great summer!

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MICHELLE McKISSACK

Offering the Frog Street Press Curriculum

DEAR TEACHER By PEGGY GISLER AND MARGE EBERTS

IS SUMMER HOMEWORK REALLY NECESSARY?

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.

Q I thought that my role of homework

enforcer would be over in the summer. Now, both of my children have brought home assignments that need to be completed over the summer. They are not small assignments, but will take several weeks to complete. Am I the only one to complain about this?

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You definitely are not the only parent to face the fact that school is more and more becoming a year-round task. The nitty gritty behind teachers giving summer assignments is simple. Children, especially those in elementary school, need ongoing opportunities to learn and practice essential skills. For example, if they don’t engage in some academic work in math, almost all students lose about two months of grade equivalency between the beginning and end of summer vacation. The story in reading is a bit different. Children who read a lot or participate in library reading programs may actually make some gains in their reading skills. The secret is that to do so, they must read. And summer homework reading assignments will help them keep their reading skills sharp. Summer homework definitely pays more academic dividends in the elementary and middle-school years than in high school. If you want your children to start the next year truly ready for handling academics, you will need to grin and bear it and organize time for them to study from day one in the summer. It will be far more productive than cramming all their homework into the last two weeks of summer vacation.

Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher. com or ask them on the columnists’ website at dearteacher.com. ©Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2017. Distributed by King Features Syndicate

I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y B R YA N R O L L I N S

– Overworked

Myopia can keep your child from seeing the full picture.

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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 pre-qualify for this study, your child must: • Be 3 to 10 years of age • Have been diagnosed with nearsightedness

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Enjoy music, movies, and the great outdoors this summer! JUNE

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COLLIERVILLE’S SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Beginning at 7 p.m. on Thursday, June 7, with Blind Mississippi Morris, this free concert series will bring a variety of live music acts to Collierville’s Historic Town Square. Bring a lawn chair or blanket, pack a picnic, and soak up the sounds. Concerts take place on Thursdays. JUNE 14: Wolf River Rednecks JUNE 21: The Mighty Electric St. Jude Band JUNE 28: Junior Year Go to mainstreetcollierville.org for full summer schedule and details.

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SOUTH LAWN CINEMA

Also beginning June 7, Dixon Gallery and Gardens hosts it summer movie series. Bring the family and enjoy classic movies under the stars on the garden’s South Lawn. Gates open at 7 p.m. Movie begins at 8 p.m. JUNE 7: Space Jam (PG) JUNE 14: Pitch Perfect (PG-13) JUNE 21: Arachnophobia (PG-13) $5/adult. $2/child ages 4-10. Free for children ages 3 and under. Visit dixon.org or call 761-5250 for more information.

Dance Camp July 16-27th Guest Teachers

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Shelby Farms Park hosts free family fitness classes on Saturdays so parents and kids can stay active, get fit, and enjoy the beautiful park. Yoga for Kids is held Saturdays from 11 a.m. until noon. Children are introduced to yoga basics with music and movement. Every other Saturday, the park hosts Family Zumba, from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. The class features dance-based fitness movement that incorporates salsa, merengue, cumbia, bhangra, and other world music. Classes are held at the First Tennessee Foundation Visitor Center. In case of time or date changes or cancellation, visit shelbyfarmspark.org or 222-7275.

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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.

Family Dentists

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

Orthodontists

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M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

EVANGELICAL CHRISTIAN SCHOOL

WHAT AGE SHOULD CHILDREN

FEATURE

PREVENTING THE SUMMER SLIDE How to keep your child reading all summer long

by JENNIFER BOREN

Have you heard of the summer slide? If not, you aren’t alone. According to Scholastic’s Kids and Family Reading Report: 6th Edition, a national survey of parents and children, only 48 percent of parents have, and low-income families are even less likely to be familiar with the term (38 percent). activities, and special story times. And don’t just check out books for your child; grab a few for yourself. Children who see their parents reading are more motivated to read!

The summer slide is the loss of academic skills when students are out of school for the summer. It may not seem like those weeks off school could do much harm, but the cumulative effects of summers off can have a huge impact on your child’s academic success when they return to school in the fall. While 98 percent of parents agree that reading books over the summer will help their child in the upcoming school year, on average, kids read just eight books over the summer. Older tweens and teens read even less, and nearly 15 percent of children surveyed read none at all. Here is what you need to know and what you can do to prevent the summer slide:

JUNE 2018

While socializing with friends and organized sports are important activities for your child, parents should carve out time for reading in the daily schedule. Reading just 20 minutes a day builds early literacy skills, improves academic performance, and even increases the lifetime earning potential for your child. When planning your next trip, don’t forget to include books in those boredom-buster packs. If you have limited space in your luggage for print copies, download electronic bookreading apps such as Kindle, Nook, or Libby. With a public library card and the free Libby app, you can connect to Tennessee R.E.A.D.S, the statewide eBook and audiobook download system.

You will instantly have thousands of eBooks at your fingertips, and they are all free! It may be tempting to keep your child busy with a tablet, but putting limits on screen time can help prevent the summer slide. Instead of imposing restrictions, enlist the help of your child in setting goals for screen time. Brainstorm a list of activities you can do together instead, and be sure to add reading to the top of the list. If your child’s school library is closed for the summer, make plans for a weekly visit to the public library. Make a game of exploring different sections of the library each visit. Memphis Public Libraries are offering several camps,

Find a new book series your child hasn’t read. If you find a series with multiple books, your child will have something to read all summer long. Read a few books in the series with your child so you can talk to them about what they are reading. Tap into the expertise of your child’s teacher or school librarian; they are most familiar with the current trends in children’s literature. Also, check out Brightly (readbrightly.com), a great website for the most recent book releases, book lists, and tips and tricks to get your child reading. The site is not just for kids. There are some good suggestions for grown-up reads as well. If your child is motivated by challenges, look into the many great summer reading programs available in this area. Tracking reading progress can be very motivating for young readers. Check out the Scholastic Summer Reading Challenge, an 18-week national reading event. In celebration of the 20-year anniversary of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, the theme of this year’s challenge is “A Magical Summer of Reading.” Your child will set reading goals and unlock digital badges as they achieve them. The site (scholastic.com/ summer) is full of tips for parents, book lists, and resources. You will need the help of your child’s teacher, school librarian, or public librarian to get your child registered.

Jennifer is the Lead Library Media Specialist for Collierville Schools and blogs at bookjabber.wordpress.com. 10

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Visit the website Camp #7 June 26–5– Friday 29,8,9:30am– 12:30 pm pm Camp #1 Tuesday, Tuesday, June Friday 9:30am– lacecottage.net or June Camp #8 Tuesday, 26– Friday 29, 1:00pm –4:0012:30 pm for camp times! Camp #8 Tuesday, June 26– Friday 29, 1:00pm –4:00 pm (901)308-1964 Camp #2 Tuesday, June 5– Friday 8, 1:00pm –4:00 pm

Lace Cottage Rd, Suite Germantown, 38138 Camp #3 Tuesday, 2024 JuneExeter 12– Friday 15, 1,9:30am– 12:30TN pm Camp #1 Tuesday, June 5– Friday 8, 9:30am– 12:30 pm

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Aquaponics is growing plants in

water, along with fish.

Join us in June and July for a 2 hour orientation in aquaponics to determine if it is of interest to you or your child. $25/person Search newwayaquaponicfarms.com for more details For more info, call 901-314-3396 or email daryl@newwayaquaponicfarms.com

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

Camp 4 students campJune 5– Friday 8, Camp per #1 Tuesday,

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HEALTH MATTERS

I L L U S T R AT I O N B Y D E R R I C K D E N T

WHEN CHILDREN FACE GRIEF Camp BraveHearts provides a safe space for emotional health while grieving. By TONYA THOMPSON

JUNE 2018

If there is one thing more difficult than coming to terms with grief after the loss of a friend or loved one, it’s helping young people do the same. And in a culture that sees increasing violence toward and among its youth, it’s a difficulty that a growing number of parents and caregivers across the Mid-South area continue to face. “We do a horrible job talking about grief in our culture,” says Mark Smith, camp director of Camp BraveHearts, a grief day camp in Memphis sponsored by Methodist Healthcare’s hospice department. “We have a ‘get over it’ mindset,” says Smith. “How can you get over a loss? You can’t — you get through it, one step at a time.” This same message is reiterated throughout Camp BraveHearts’ three-day sessions focused on helping children ages 6-16, along with their parents or caregivers, to cope with the death of a family member or friend. “We have a culture that seems to view emotion as a weakness to be stifled, especially among men,” Smith says. “We have family members who say, ‘I have to be strong for another family member.’ So, when we feel the emotional pain of grief, we try to extinguish it as soon as possible. The problem is that if we don’t deal with grief, it will deal with us. It’s like a coke bottle shaken one million times — the pressure builds and builds and eventually it will come out.”

At Camp BraveHearts, Smith, along with a team of volunteers and trained professionals, work to create a safe place where feelings of grief can be expressed without having to worry about the reactions of others. “Sometimes by talking about it, it will give another person the permission they need to grieve and show them that reaching out for help is true strength,” says Smith. “So, talk about it — to a family member, friend, pastor, counselor. Talk about it!” Among these lessons of expression of grief for Camp BraveHearts’ participants, there are activities focused on helping children heal from the emotional pain grief brings. “Camp Bravehearts teaches children how to acknowledge and express their grief in positive ways,” Smith says. “We do this through fun activities, such as climbing walls, water activities (swimming pool and lake activities) and art projects. We do this in thoughtful activities such as sharing stories and journaling. We have activities that honor the memory of the loved one while working

toward healing. At the end of camp, we close by inviting campers and families to a special memorial service.” Camp BraveHearts will take place July 18-20, at For the Kingdom, 4100 RaleighMillington Rd. Funded by contributions from the community so that campers can attend at no charge to their family, the camp also provides free lunch and snacks on all three days. For more information or to register, call 901-818-2105 and ask to speak with a Camp BraveHearts intake person or email Leticia.Blundon@mlh.org. For information on sponsoring a child to attend Camp BraveHearts, call 901-516-0996. Baptist Memorial Health Care Foundation also offers free grief counseling, by appointment, throughout the year and hosts Camp Good Grief and Teen Camp Good Grief annually. For more information, call 901-861-5656.

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

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

Funded by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

JUAN MONSERRAT By SHARA CLARK

JUNE 2018

Juan Monserrat remembers the moment he realized he’d made the right career choice. A few years ago, he had a heartwarming encounter during a conference with the parent of a “difficult” child.

He recalls, “With tears in her eyes, the child’s mother looked at me and said, ‘Mr. Monserrat, I want to thank you because you’ve made such a difference in my child’s life. You have seen good things in him. You have said positive things about him and to him. No one else has done that before.’” Monserrat’s philosophy: To teach a child, you must first connect with them. “Sometimes they just want to be heard — they want to talk to you, they want to say what’s going on beyond the classroom,” Monserrat says. “That’s why I look for things that we can share or that we have in common, and that’s the starting point to creating a relationship.” He believes those relationships are crucial to the learning experience. Monserrat teaches algebra and Spanish and coaches soccer at St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School. As a coach, he has more of an opportunity to connect

with his kids outside of class, and he sees that as a great advantage. Instead of focusing solely on teaching — technology, curriculum, best methods — Monserrat has found that extra steps to reach each individual child are necessary. “I think we sometimes forget basic things that human beings need, like interest in not only the knowledge but also what’s happening in each one of us,” Monserrat says. “If there is not such a connection and the child doesn’t see that I really care about him, the teaching is not going to happen. You can be the best teacher in the world and it’s not going to happen.” Monserrat has been teaching for 14 years — two years in his homecountry Argentina, seven years at Bishop Byrne High School, and the last five at St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School. He and his family moved to Memphis from Argentina after one of his own children was

diagnosed with retinoblastoma, a kind of youth cancer, in 1998. “We were blessed to be accepted for treatment at St. Jude Hospital,” he says. He has been married to his wife Maria for 24 years, and they have four children, Maria Luz (23), Juan Jr. (21), Tomas (18), and Emmanuel (13). “My faith and the love of my family plays a unique role in this equation,” says Monserrat. “And I believe this ministry of teaching is only possible if one has Christ living in one’s life. You can’t give what you don’t have, and you can’t pretend to be someone you’re not. Students will figure you out pretty quickly!” Monserrat says being an authentic person is key, and he works everyday to create and maintain connections with his students in and out of class. “That bond has such a big impact,” he says. “When you are able to create that, the students feel empowered to learn.”

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. 14

SUMMER DANCE

~25 Mile Ride & 1 Mile Kids Fun Ride~ through scenic areas of Memphis beginning and ending at Memorial Park.

• June 24, 2018 • 7AM •

Post Ride Breakfast by Crepe Maker & Say Cheese! plus Entertainment!

new to dance? come join us! Fun, creative classes for ages 6 and up. Plus summer intensives for experienced dancers.

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learn more at balletmemphis.org/summer-dance

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Volunteered 18,500 hours of service to the community throughout high school.

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SHINING STARS

• 1 National Merit Finalist The St. Agnes Academy Class of • 2 National Merit Commended 2018: Continuing a Legacy of • 1 National Merit Special Sisterhood for 167 years. Scholarship We look forward to watching you shine in college and beyond!

St. Agnes Academy-St. Dominic School • www.saa-sds.org

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NES ACA AG

MY DE

SAIN T

CONGRATULATIONS ST. AGNES ACADEMY CLASS OF 2018!

JUNE 2018

Former soccer player J.J. Greer returns home to prepare for triplets

By SAMUEL X. CICCI

As the son of Jarvis Greer, one of Memphis’ most notable sportscasters, playing a sport had always been ingrained into J.J. Greer. “I started playing soccer and basketball when I was around 4 years old.”

When eighth grade rolled around, Greer child, Theodore Jarvis Greer. decided to exclusively pursue soccer, as it Greer thought that his schedule as a seemed to be a more realistic proposition professional athlete worked well to due to his height. Able to play as both a balance his professional and family life. defender and a midfielder, Greer chose “I’d wake up around 6:30 and make a to play for Christian Brothers High good breakfast, and then our training School. After three consecutive losses in and activities would last around four the state finals, CBHS was finally hours,” he says. “Usually we’d be there crowned champion during Greer’s senior from 8 to 12, then we’d be finished for year. the day. It really gave me a lot of time to Next, he earned a scholarship to play spend with my family.” Even though half soccer at University of Memphis. It was of the 30-plus game schedule required there he met his wife, Stephanie, a travel, Greer says that he was never away member of the University of Memphis for too long. “Maybe the longest we’d be volleyball team. The two shared a class, gone was for a few days over the and then crossed paths at a meet-andweekend, but we’d normally be back greet event for university athletes. They pretty quickly.” began dating and eventually got married It’s apparent that Theo takes after the in 2014. By that time, Greer started his athletic genes in the family. “As soon as professional career and had signed with he wakes up, he’s usually running around the Charlotte Eagles. the house,” says Greer. “We’ve got a few Each level of soccer proved to be a balls lying around the house that he’s greater challenge. “In high school, you’ll usually throwing or kicking.” The bundle have a few kids who are the best on their of energy that Theo provides is a good team,” says Greer. “Once you get to test for the Greer family; later this year, college, it’s much more level and J.J. and Stephanie are expecting triplets. everyone is talented. Then at the Greer laughs when asked if he feels fully professional level, it’s even harder. You prepared. “If you know someone who always have to play your best to be in says that they’re ready for triplets… well, consideration to play. Even then, you introduce me to them!” With the rest of might play your best, but something the family involved in sports, he thinks happens and you’re back on the bench.” that most of his kids will follow a similar After a season in Charlotte, Greer and path. “We would like them to be involved Stephanie moved to Colorado Springs, in sports. We’ll of course be pushing where he joined the Colorado them academically, but if I had to guess, Switchbacks for the 2015-16 season. A I’d say two of the three triplets will get few months before relocating again to into sports.” play in Phoenix, the Greers had their first Having recently moved back to

Samuel X. Cicci lives in downtown Memphis and is associate editor of IMB and Memphis magazines.

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P H OTO B Y A U S T I N K Y L I E

Memphis after retiring from professional soccer last season, Greer believes that his family is in the right place. “I really think there are a lot of good things going on in Memphis; it’s changed even since I first moved away. Plus, I’ve got a lot of friends here, and we’ll have the kids really close to our family.” Stephanie is able to work from home, teaching English to young Chinese students through the VIPKID organization. Greer now works for Snap-raise, a national fundraising organization geared at improving the quality of school sports programs. While no longer playing professionally, Greer is still able to be involved in sports and have a positive impact on local youth teams. Despite retiring at a young age, Greer has no regrets about his professional soccer career. If anything, he was able to wrap up his career on an incredibly high note. “My last season in Phoenix, the team really pushed and brought in some big stars,” says Greer. “We had Didier Drogba [former striker for London team Chelsea FC], Sean Wright-Phillips, and then they had Mexican soccer legend Omar Bravo. After we’d signed Drogba, in his first game one of our central defenders got injured, so I came off the bench. Almost immediately Drogba scored, and it was so special being able to celebrate that goal with him. Growing up, Chelsea had been my favorite team, and Drogba was my favorite player.” Playing alongside your all-time favorite athlete? That’s certainly a story to tell the Greer kids.

FEATURE

DIGGING FOR TREASURE A trip to the mines is a great way to unplug By JEFF HULETT

JUNE 2018

For as long as I can remember — okay only six years — my young family has been doing something special for Good Friday. Usually we’d ride to Cedar Hill Farm in Mississippi for their hayrides and egg hunts, but this year we had a hankering for something different.

We wanted to get our hands dirty and dig in the dirt. “Forget these screens,” we said, and decided to take a day trip to visit Ron Coleman Mining in Jessieville, Arkansas. Jessieville is close to Hot Springs — about a three-and-a-half-hour drive from Memphis via I-40 West — and home to many crystal and diamond mine sites. The drive itself was refreshing as we made our way up and down winding rural roads. It’s amazing what a road trip can do for the family psyche. Upon parking, the first thing we saw was one of largest crystals we’ve ever seen. Let’s just say the anticipation for unearthing something big and special was real. So off we went. Kid’s admission was free, while it was $20 a pop for my wife Annie and me. You get to keep the treasures you collect. You should see our yard now — all riddled with our mining finds of the day. Pro tip: Bring tools from your garden, in addition to snacks and water. It can get hot out there. “Let the digging begin,” I decreed. Right off the bat, Ella and Bea

found some small crystals to get their excitement flowing and started filling bags with the shiny, transparent nuggets. Annie was more particular about the selection of her finds. There were times where we couldn’t even find her. Quote of the trip: “All I need is peace, quiet, and a crystal mine.” Not too crowded and surrounded by the serene beauty of foothills and forest, there we were, an urban family digging in the rural underbelly of our natural-state neighbors. We were unplugged, and focused on each other, excavating for a little something to remember our efforts by. After a few hours of digging, we noticed people zip-lining their way across the mines. To be honest, I didn’t think too much of it. Don’t get me wrong; it looked cool and fun, but we didn’t come to zip-line. Or so I thought. Next thing I know, Ella, my 6-year-old, says, “Can I do that?” I laughed at first, but Annie was surprisingly all for it. At this point I started sweating because this is a long line to zip, and when Ella and Annie set their minds to something C O N T I N U E D O N PA G E 2 0

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A Kids’ 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

Now Registering for Summer Classes • Straight from New York City • Great music • Live guitar and storytelling, singing and dancing • Fun for parents too!

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Come Jam with Music for Aardvarks, Memphis! An interactive music program for children 6 months to 5 years and their parents/caregivers

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Classes now in Midtown, East Memphis, Collierville, and Cordova Visit us on the web at www.memphisaardvarks.com or contact us at 871-0227 or info@memphisaardvarks.com

• 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

Paddle through the exhibit June 2 - September 3, 2018 Opens May 26

This exhibition was produced by the Florida Museum of Natural History with support from the AEC Trust, Lastinger Family Foundation, State of Florida and VisitGainesville.

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s s e l d n (E summer ) SEE IT AT THE PINK PALACE! s e r u t n Adve

SUMMER FUN DAY TRIPS

There’s a lot of fun to be had in the region! Pack some snacks, hop in the car, and explore.

JUNE 2018

RON COLEMAN MINING 211 Crystal Ridge Lane Jessieville, AR 800-291-4484 colemanquartz.com Spend the day digging for treasure! Find crystals and quartz at this Arkansas mine. Daily rates: $20/adult; $15/senior; $5/child (7-16 years)

there’s no turning back. So Ella gets strapped into her vest and helmet while I ride down to the bottommost platform, where Ella will conclude her historic ride. I hear the line tighten and the nice folks at Ron Coleman Mining tell me she’s coming. I start filming on my phone, but I’m shaking like a leaf. I can’t see her. But then she appears like an angel. And she’s smiling ear-to-ear. “How was it, Ella?” I asked. “It was fun! Can I do it again?” Phew! It’s amazing what our kids can teach us. In the end, we found two crystals and a whole lot of quartz — and we made memories, precious jewels that will last a lifetime. Jeff Hulett is married with two daughters and lives in midtown. He tells lots of dad jokes.

magicsprings.com Make it a thrilling day with roller coaster rides and water slides at this amusement and water park. Daily rates: $59.99/general admission at gate; discounts available if purchased in advance online

DISCOVERY PARK OF LITTLE ROCK ZOO AMERICA 1 Zoo Drive 830 Everett Boulevard Little Rock, AR Union City, TN 501-666-2406 731-885-5455 littlerockzoo.com discoveryparkofamerica. Lions and tigers and bears, com oh my! Explore a variety This educational and of exhibits at the Little entertainment experience Rock Zoo. features exhibits focused Daily rates: on nature, science, $12.95/adult; $10.95/ technology, history, and senior; $9.95/child (3+) art. Daily rates: MUSEUM OF $14.95/adult; $12.95/ DISCOVERY senior; $11.95/child (4-12 500 President Clinton years) Avenue Little Rock, AR TENNESSEE SAFARI 501-396-7050 PARK museumofdiscovery.org 618 Conley Road Explore exhibits on Alamo, TN science, technology, 731-696-4423 engineering, arts, and tennesseesafaripark.com math in an interactive Drive through the 5.5environment. mile stretch of farmland Daily rates: roads to encounter rare $10/adult; $8/senior; $8/ and endangered animals child (12 and under) from around the world, or walk through the 20-acre MAGIC SPRINGS AND zoo area to see primates, CRYSTAL FALLS exotic birds, and more. 1701 E. Grand Avenue Daily rates: Hot Springs, AR $16/adult; $12/child (2-12 501-624-0100 years)

MISSISSIPPI CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 2145 Museum Boulevard Jackson, MS 601-981-5469 mschildrensmuseum.org Explore interactive exhibits and activities focused on arts, history, health, and science. Daily rates: $10/general admission MISSISSIPPI MUSEUM OF NATURAL SCIENCE 2148 Riverside Drive Jackson, MS 601-576-6000 mdwfp.com/museum The largest museum in Mississippi features aquariums, habitat exhibits, and nature trails. Daily rates: $6/adult; $5/senior; $/ child (3-18 years) STATE AND NATIONAL PARKS From picnics to scenic hikes, a park trip can make for great outdoor adventures. Visit tnstateparks.com (TN), mdwfp.com/parksdestinations (MS), arkansasstateparks.com (AR), or nps.gov for more information on nearby state and national parks.

W acky Wensday is free fun for all at Brooks • • • • • • •

Family-friendly summer of art and film Children of all ages and their grown-up friends Create art projects with different materials See short films Have a blast in hands-on Inside Art Free every Wednesday in June & July* 10 am– noon

* Closed July 4

BROOKS 1934 Poplar Ave. 901-544-6200 | brooksmuseum.org Wed 10 a–8 p, Thur & Fri 10 a–4 p, Sat 10 a–5 p, Sun 11 a–5 p Members & under 6 Free, Adults $7, 65+ $6, Students $3 Brooks gratefully acknowledges the financial support of ArtsMemphis, AutoZone, Hyde Family Foundations, the Jeniam Foundation & Tennessee Arts Commission.

TENNIS SUMMER CAMPS JUNE 4-JULY 20 SPONSORS & PARTNERS Nancy Smith Family

• Weekly camps: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM-12:00 Noon • NEW: Abbreviated camp for ages 5-6. Visit our website for complete

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• Seven locations: Bellevue, Eldon Roark, Frayser, Leftwich, Raleigh, Wooddale, and Wolbrecht Tennis Centers

• Weekly Cost: $120 or $60 per child, depending on camp location. Summer passes are also available for purchase. Financial aid and scholarships are available. • Space is limited: Advance registration is recommended and will be accepted online, by mail, or in person at the following locations: Bellevue, Eldon Roark/Whitehaven, Frayser, Raleigh, Wolbrecht and Leftwich locations. Players may register on Mondays the week of camp at any location if camp is not full • Equipment: All equipment is provided.

VISIT

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2018 NJTL

TRAVEL

CRUISING WITH KIDS

Sail away for adventure with the entire family By MICHELLE McKISSACK Family vacations can be tricky when trying to accommodate everyone’s various interests. This is certainly the case for me now that I have a son in college, two high school students, and a daughter who’s barely into elementary school. The perfect solution — a cruise. On a cruise ship, there are many different activities for all age groups, and exploring different ports of call and exposing your children to different cultures is an added bonus. Years ago, my husband and I travelled to Jamaica and had a wonderful experience. I wanted to introduce my children to this amazing Caribbean country. We recently took a five-day cruise that stopped in Ocho Rios, Jamaica, as well as Grand Cayman. Here’s what we did! 4

JUNE 2018

Nothing but deep, blue sea makes for a wonderful backdrop for a photo with Bliss and my husband, John.

15-year-old Peter has waited all his life to try to look this cool on the pool deck.

The family enjoyed breakfast on the ship’s veranda before disembarking to our port of call in Ocho Rios, Jamaica.

Bliss (7) with her big brothers John (20), Everett (16) and Peter (15) enjoy a water excursion at the Blue Hole in Jamaica. We all walked to the top of a

waterfall then jumped into deep blue holes of water at each plateau until we reached the bottom. Thrilling! 5

We hired a driver/tour guide for our day trip in Jamaica. As we toured the island in a minivan, we stopped along the side of the road at a fruit and vegetable stand to sample native fruit and talk to locals. That’s our ship, the Carnival Sensation, in the distance as we stopped at a breathtaking scenic lookout in Ocho Rios.

Bliss giggled at meeting Thing 1 and Thing 2 at the Dr. Seuss at Sea breakfast, which is a fun attraction on all Carnival Cruise ships. The kids clubs on ships offer fun activities for every age group. Kids can drop in for an hour or all day.

16-year-old Everett was the reigning ping-pong champion on board. Seriously, he beat everyone who challenged him.

GROOVE FOR ST. JUDE A surprise on our cruise had us feeling close to home. On the trip, we learned that Carnival Cruise line hosts on-ship parties to raise money for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. It doesn’t take much for Carnival to throw a party on board, and this party with a purpose let’s you kick up your heels, or perhaps more appropriately, put on your dancing flip-flops. Those who make donations receive a T-shirt, and with a larger contribution, the kiddos can take home a special St. Jude teddy bear. Since 2013, Carnival has been St. Jude’s “Official Celebration Partner” and has supported numerous celebrations at the hospital, such as the St. Jude Teen Formal, birthdays, and other themed events for patients. Through all of their shared efforts, Carnival has raised more than $16 million to help St. Jude fight childhood cancer.

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JUNE CALENDAR THE ILLUSIONISTS LIVE FROM BROADWAY. THE ORPHEUM.

Through June 10. 8 p.m. Saturday at 2 & 8 p.m. Sunday at 1 p.m. Direct from Broadway, this performance showcases seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth.

$30-$85. Call 525-3000 for tickets. P H OTO G R A P H B Y C L A U D I A J A M E S

1 ∙ FRIDAY

Fun Fridays: Animal Tracks. Memphis Botanic Garden (MBG). Fridays, from 10 a.m. until noon. Join for Fun Fridays in Tracks & Trails and Campfire Tales Idea Garden. Drop-in activity, free with admission. 636-4100. 2018 Memphis Italian Festival. Marquette Park. May 31 through June 2. Also on Saturday, 11 a.m.-11 p.m. Features spaghetti gravy contest, live music, Luigi’s Cafe, cooking demos, Luigi’s Market, live performances, bocce, cornhole tournament, and carnival games. $10. Free for kids ages 10 and under. Visit memphisitalianfestival.com for details.

JUNE 2018

Food Truck Fridays. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Fridays, 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Enjoy lunch from favorite Memphis food trucks on the beautiful Dixon grounds. Admission is free to the gardens during Food Truck Fridays. 761-5250. Wild Lunch at Lichterman. Lichterman Nature Center. Tuesday through Saturday at noon. Free with admission. 636-2210. 2018 Movie Mania. Central Park @ Carriage Crossing. Movies begin at dusk. Bring your chairs and blankets and grab a spot on the lawn. Premovie fun includes games and giveaways. Free. Visit shopcarriagecrossing.com for a complete schedule.

2 ∙ SATURDAY

Family Studio. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. 10:a.m. until noon. Free. 761-5250.

Chucalissa Family Days. C.H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa. Select days in June. On Saturdays at 10 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Also on Tuesdays & Thursdays at 1:30 p.m. Family programs and craft activities change weekly. June 2: Trash Talks/Snake Painting. June 5, 7, & 9: Mystery Box/Beading. June 12, 14 & 16: Music/Coloring Books. June 19, 21, & 23: Sports & Hunting/Pottery. June 26, 28, & 30: Stone Tools & Weapons/Talking Sticks. $6/adult. $4/child ages 4-11. Free for children 3 and under. 785-3160. Get Outside! Fitness: Free Yoga for Kids. Shelby Farms Park. Saturdays, from 11 a.m. until noon. Introduces children to yoga basics with music and movement. Free. 222-7275. Wear Orange Block Party. Lester Community Center. Noon until 2 p.m. Wear orange and join for kids activities, live music, snacks, and the opportunity to join the movement to end gun violence. Go to south-moms.ngpvanhost.com/ ngpvanforms/20898 to RSVP. Get Outside! Fitness: Family Zumba. Shelby Farms Park. Every other Saturday, 3:30-4:30 p.m. Features dance-based fitness movement that incorporates salsa, merengue, cumbia, bhangra, and

other world music. Free. 222-7275. The Lego Movie. CTI 3D Giant Theater. Weekends in June at 4 p.m. Watch your favorite movies on the big screen at the Pink Palace. $10/adult. $8/child ages 3 and up. 636-2362.

4 ∙ MONDAY

Mudpie Mondays. MBG. Mondays, from 10 a.m. until noon. Join on the Little Garden Patio and use dishes, spoons, and nature’s decorations to “bake” your own pie creations. Drop-in activity, free with admission. 636-4100.

Tea & Toddlers. Universal Parenting Place @ Christ Community Health Services. Mondays from noon until 1:45 p.m. Parents are invited for a weekly parenting topic while tots enjoy toddler time over refreshments. Free. RSVP to brittany.hart@ christchs.org or call 701-2871 for details.

5 ∙ TUESDAY

Malco Theatres Kids Summer Film Fest. Malco Theatres. Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m. Catch your favorites including The Chronicles of Narnia, Trolls, Horton Hears a Who, and more. $2. Benefits various children’s charities. Go to malco. com for the film schedule. Mini Masters. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. $8/child. Call 761-5250 to

pre-register and pre-pay by Monday noon before the class.

6 ∙ WEDNESDAY

Toddler Time. Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. Meets Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Free. 227-9558. Music for Aardvarks. Universal Parenting Place @ Christ Community Health Services. On select Wednesdays (June 6 & 20), 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 ∙ THURSDAY

Sprouts. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Thursdays, 10:30-11 a.m. This new interactive program for toddlers and their caregivers encourages creative play. $8. Reservations required. 761-5250. Whet Thursday: Bingo on the Bluff with Kevin Cerrito. Metal Museum. 5-8 p.m. Features museum tour, live music by Cassette Set, food from Stick Em, metalsmithing demos, gallery talk, and handmade prizes by the Museum Smithy & Foundry. Free. 774-6380. 2018 Summer Concert Series. Historic Town Square. Thursdays at 7 p.m. June 7: Blind Mississippi Morris. June 14: Wolf River Rednecks. June 21: The Mighty Electric St. Jude Band. June 28: Junior Year. Bring your lawn chair or blanket, pack a picnic, and enjoy the concerts on the Square. Free. Go to mainstreetcollierville.org for details. South Lawn Cinema. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Gates open at 7 p.m. Movie begins at 8 p.m. June 7: Space Jam (PG). June 14: Pitch Perfect (PG-13). June 21: Arachnophobia (PG-13). $5/adult. $2/child ages 4-10. Free for children ages 3 and under. 761-5250.

8 ∙ FRIDAY

Music by the Lake Concert: Nick Black and Jeffrey and the Pacemakers. Appling Lake. 6-9 p.m. Bring lawn chairs or blankets, pack a picnic or buy from food trucks, and enjoy bluegrass music. Free. Visit bpacc.org for details.

The Illusionists – Live from Broadway. The Orpheum. Through June 10. 8 p.m. Saturday at 2 & 8 p.m. Sunday at 1 p.m. Direct from Broadway, this performance showcases seven of the most incredible illusionists on earth. $30-$85. Call 525-3000 for tickets.

9 ∙ SATURDAY

28th Annual USFW Free Fishing Day & Youth Fishing Rodeo. Reelfoot Lake National Wildlife Refuge. 7 a.m.-1 p.m. Children ages 13 and under are invited to take part in this youth fishing rodeo. Free. Door prizes and lunch. 731-538-2481.

11 ∙ MONDAY

Mobile’s Singing Children’s Choir Summer Tour. Saint John’s Episcopal Church. 7-8:15 p.m. The Mobile Singing Children of Alabama stops at Saint John’s for an evening of music making. Free. Visit stjohnsmemphis.org for details.

13 ∙ WEDNESDAY

FOOD TRUCK GARDEN PARTY: SUPERHEROES VS. VILLAINS. MBG. 5-8 p.m. Features live music, Play Zone, and food from the local food trucks. $5/members. $10/ non-members. 636-4100.

16 ∙ SATURDAY

Community Day: African-Print Fashion Now! Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. 4-8 p.m. Families are welcome to celebrate the exhibition African-Print Fashion Now! at the Brooks with artmaking activities, live music, and gallery activities. Free. 544-6200.

23 ∙ SATURDAY

Food Allergy FAAMily Fun Camp. Bartlett Recreation Center. 3:30-8 p.m. Children ages 4-14 with parents. Get active, be creative, and cool off with other kids from our local food allergy community. $15/child. Pre-register online at faamidsouth.org or call 614-2907 for details.

ONGOING EVENTS MUSEUMS AND EXHIBITS

The Pink Palace Museum. Dugout Canoes: Paddling Through the Americas. June 1 through September 14. Exhibit includes 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, 2019. 636-2362. CTI 3D Giant Theater. Journey to the South Pacific 3D. Through November 16. A young island boy takes a journey of discovery encountering whale sharks, sea turtles, manta rays, and other creatures of the sea. James Bond: Thunderball (2D). June 15 & 16, 7-9:30 p.m. James Bond heads to the Bahamas to recover two nuclear warheads stolen by SPECTRE. 636-2362. AutoZone Dome at the Sharpe Planetarium. Seasonal Stargazing. Ongoing. Perfect Little Planet. Until further notice. One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure. Until further notice. 636-2362. Memphis Botanic Garden. Art in Nature Exhibit. June 29 & 30. Hutchison School students install environmental art using natural, found materials from the grounds. 636-4119.

OTHER PROGRAMS

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. “Through Our Garden Gates.” Selected homes in Cordova and Bartlett. Saturday, June 2, from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. The Memphis Area Master Gardeners host this 9th annual public garden tour answering questions and helping identify plants. Free. Donations appreciated but not required. Visit memphisareamastergardeners.org for details. Magevney House Tour. Magevney House, 198 Adams Avenue. Open first Saturday (June 2), 1-4 p.m. Admission is free. 523-1484. Gallery Talk: Black Resistance with Charlie Newman. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Wednesday, June 6, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Newman was one of the attorneys who represented Dr. MLK Jr. just before his death in 1968, and his talk focuses on his experiences during that time as reflected in the exhibit photos. Free. Limited to 30 participants. 544-6200. Tour: African-Print Fashion Now! with Sonin Lee. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Saturday, June 23, 2-3 p.m. Join for a guided tour of African-Print Fashion Now! with Sonin Lee, Associate Professor of Fashion Design and Merchandising at the University of Memphis. Free with admission. Limited to 30 participants. 544-6200.

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS

Summer Sessions at Creative Movement Studio. YMCA at Crosstown Concourse. May 29 through July 4. Children ages 12 and under. Classes offered include dance and ballet, and yoga

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for children. Visit churchhealth.org for more information. Mid-Day Mindfulness in Motion Yoga. Universal Parenting Place @ Christ Community Health Services. On select Fridays (June 1 & 15), from noon until 1 p.m. Free. RSVP to brittany.hart@christchs.org or call 701-2871 for details. Saturday All-Day Childbirth Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Select Saturdays (June 2 & 16), 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Class covers breastfeeding and infant care. $75. Call 226-5764 to register. Workshop: Head Wraps by Gift Wraps. Memphis Brooks Museum of Art. Sunday, June 3, 2-4 p.m. In conjunction with the African-Print Fashion Now! exhibit and to honor National Cancer Survivors Day, Gift Wraps teaches how to wrap and wear different head wrap adornment styles. $10. Reservations required. 544-6200.

JUNE 2018

Connect 2Nature Workshops. Morton Museum of Collierville History. On select Tuesdays (June 5, 19, & 26), from 10:30 a.m. until noon with different topics each week. June 5: In the Garden. June 19: Tie-Dyeing… Naturally. June 26: Nature at Night. Children ages 6-12 connect with nature learning about plants and animals in these garden workshops. Free. Reservations required. 457-2650.

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African Family Drum Circle. Universal Parenting Place @ Christ Community Health Services. On select Tuesdays (June 5 & 19), 1:30-2:30 p.m. Free. RSVP to brittany.hart@christchs.org or call 701-2871 for details. Kaleidoscope Club. Leatherman Art Studio @ Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. Ages 5-9. $8. Snack provided. Call 761-5250 to register.

761-5250. DSAM New Family Brunch. Goodman Oaks Church of Christ in Southaven, MS. Saturday, June 16, 9-11 a.m. For families of children with Down Syndrome ages 6 and under. Siblings, caretakers, and extended family welcome, too. Meet and greet with other families and enjoy brunch at this informational event that provides tips to help your child. Free. Childcare provided. Call 547-7588 to RSVP. Expectant Parents Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Saturday, June 23, from 9 a.m. until noon. $30. Call 226-5764 to register. Make Your Own: Fibulas. Metal Museum. Saturday, June 30, from 10 a.m. until noon. Children ages 7 and up learn how to make a taper and bend and forge wire into a personal design for a fibula. $10/person. Reservations required. 774-6380.

FUND-RAISERS

Food Allergy Alliance of the Mid-South Virtual 5K. Run, jog, or walk to complete 3.1 miles during the week of June 10-16. You choose the time, place, and pace for this virtual 5K. Registration: $25. Benefits Food Allergy Alliance of the Mid-South. Visit faamidsouth.org/faam5k or call 614-2907 for details. Art from the Heart of Page Robbins. The Quonset. Saturday, June 12, 7-9 p.m. Enjoy desserts and beverages with friends while bidding on art pieces. A generous donor will match all proceeds up to $10,000! Admission: FREE Visit pagerobbins. org/upcoming-events for more information.

THEATRE PERFORMANCES

Breastfeeding Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Thursday, June 7, 6:30-8:30 p.m. $30. Call 226-5764 to register.

Diamonds Praise Dance Company. Halloran Centre at the Orpheum. Friday, June 15, 7 p.m. Young women from all around Memphis and the Mid-South present this celebration of praise through dance set to both contemporary and traditional gospel music. $20. Advance discounts available. 525-3000.

Saturday Sketch. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Saturday, June 9, 10-11 a.m. Ages 15 and up. Free with admission.

Vice President Joe Biden American Promise Tour. The Orpheum. Friday, June 15, 8 p.m. In this presentation,

Brit Floyd. The Orpheum. Friday, June 22, at 8 p.m. Brit Floyd performs classic tracks from The Dark Side of the Moon alongside songs from Wish You Were Here, Animals, The Wall, and The Division Bell for this special 45th anniversary retrospective of Pink Floyd’s iconic 1973 album. $29.50-$54.50 Call 525-3000 for tickets.

each week with songs, related craft, and snack. Free. Story Time at National Civil Rights Museum 450 Mulberry St., 521-9699 Select Wednesdays in June (June 13, 20, & 27) and Saturday June 30, 10:30-11 a.m. This weekly story time introduces activism and encourages friendship among children ages 2-5 (all are welcome). Free.

MEMPHIS LIBRARY EVENTS

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

An Evening with Diana Krall. The Orpheum. Saturday, June 30, 8 p.m. Diana Krall performs from her new album, Turn Up The Quiet. $62.50$118. Call 525-3000 for tickets.

CENTRAL 3030 Poplar Ave., 415-2700 CLOUD901 CLASSES & EVENTS: CLOUD901 is the library’s state-ofthe-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.

STORY TIME AT AREA BOOKSTORES AND MUSEUMS

Summer Reading program Explore Memphis kicks off at various branches of the library in June.

Jerry Seinfeld. The Orpheum. Friday, June 29, 7 p.m. America’s premier comedian returns to the Orpheum with his signature stand-up routine. $67.50-$175. Call 525-3000 for tickets.

Barnes & Noble Booksellers The Avenue Carriage Crossing Mall, 853-3264 Saturdays at 11 a.m. Ages 1-6. Barnes & Noble Booksellers 2774 N. Germantown Pkwy., 3862468 Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. Ages PreK-6. Father’s Day Story Time - With My Daddy: A Book of Love and Family. Saturday, June 16 & Tuesday, June 19, 11 a.m. Celebrate Father’s Day with a special story time and activities. Free. Character Story Time - Wild Thing. Sunday, June 17, 3-3:30 p.m. Meet one of the Wild Things from Where the Wild Things Are and join for a special story time, photo op, and activity. Free. Story Time at Morton Museum of Collierville History 196 N. Main St., 457-2650 Fridays, 10:30-11 a.m. Ages 5 and under. Enjoy a new story theme

CO N G R AT U L AT I O N S P R ES C H O O L G R A D UAT ES

• International Story Time. Saturday, June 2, from 11 a.m. until noon. Learn about the country of Egypt with stories, crafts, games, and snacks. • Puppet Show. Monday, June 4, 1:30-2:30 p.m. The Silver Lining Puppet Players present NativeAmerican folktales and craft activity for children ages 3-12 and their parents. • Explore Memphis Family Game Night. Tuesday, June 5, 6-7 p.m. Join Baptist Memorial Health Care for this Healthy Living Series. • Rock Painting. Thursday, June 7, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Children ages 6-12 make a pet rock, rock picture holder, or rock magnet. • Art and Music Connections. Thursday, June 28, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Children ages 6-12 create a Romare Bearden-inspired collage while listening to jazz music. CHEROKEE 3300 Sharpe Ave., 743-3655 • Edible Engineering. Tuesday, June

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Vice President Biden shares the big political moments of his career, the life-altering choices he made, and the key traits that helped him persevere through challenges. $44.50-$328. Call 525-3000 for tickets.

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12, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Children create their own buildings and bridges using candy and food items. • Introduction to Coding for Children and Teens. Wednesday, June 20, from 11 a.m. until noon. Children ages 6-12 learn basic game design using the programming language Lua on Roblox Studio. CORDOVA 8457 Trinity Rd., 754-8443 • Family Fun Summer Festival. Saturday, June 2, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Enjoy popsicles, play in the water balloon tournament, decorate a glitter Frisbee, and paint your T-shirt. • Hats off to Dad! Saturday, June 9, from 11 a.m. until noon. Celebrate Father’s Day with stories, snacks, and ball cap making. • SuperScience TN. Saturday, June 16, from 11a.m. until noon. Children ages 6-12 join Mr. Rich and SuperScience TN for making giant ghost bubbles, exploring Tesla coils, and cotton candy. • Explore the Ocean. Tuesday, June 19, 3-3:45 p.m. Children ages 5-12 learn about the ocean and make a sand art piece to take home. • Family Movie Madness. Saturday, June 23, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Watch Tinkerbell and make decorate fairy crowns and magic wands. • Special Needs Story Time. Tuesday, June 26, 9-11 a.m. A sensory story time for children and teens with special needs. • Reader Dogs at the Library. Saturday, June 30, from 11 a.m. until noon. Children read to Posh and her friends, make puppets, and enjoy doggy snacks. CORNELIA CRENSHAW 531 Vance Ave., 525-1643 • Tangram: The Art of Chinese Puzzles. Thursday, June 14, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Teens learn about the history of tangrams and how they are used today. • African Art: The Meaning of Kenta Cloth. Friday, June 15, 1:30-2:30 p.m. Teens learn the history of the African Kenta Cloth and how it is used today. EAST SHELBY 7200 East Shelby Dr., 751-7360 • Scavenger Hunt. Select Saturdays

(June 2 &30), from noon until 2 p.m. Teens receive a list of books and media items that they must find using the library catalog and other resources for prizes. • Creation Station. Select Tuesdays, (June 5 & 19), 1-2 p.m. June 5: The Libraries Rock! Sue Schnitzer leads an easy beginner’s ukulele course for children. June 19: 901 Rocks. Paint your own rock and then hide it somewhere special around Memphis. • STEMlab. Select Thursdays (June 14: Biology in a Box: Biomechanics & June 28: Sensory Play Day), 1-2 p.m. Children ages 6-12 engage in STEM activities. FRAYSER 3712 Argonne St., 357-4115 • Gardening for Teens. Select Mondays (June 4 & 18), from noon until 1 p.m. Teens plant an assortment of herbs and vegetables and learn how to care for them. • Build a Solar Oven. Tuesday, June 5, 4-5 p.m. Teens build their own oven using a cardboard box, aluminum foil, and the sun. • Sew Your Art Out! Select Thursdays (June 7, 21, & 28), 3:30-4:30 p.m. Children ages 6-12 learn basic hand and sewing machine stitches. • Homemade Lava Lamp. Tuesday, June 12, 4-5 p.m. Teens make their own lava lamp using materials found around the house. • Exploring Music. Select Wednesdays (June 13: Woodwind and Brass, June 20: Percussion, & June 27: Music & Songs), 1-2:30 p.m. Children ages 6-12 explore music and instruments. • Phone Projector and Speakers! Tuesday, June 19, 4-5 p.m. Teens learn how to make a homemade projector and phone speakers out of everyday materials. • ShoWagon: Hiking Trails Tales. Thursday, June 28, from 11 a.m. until noon. The show is about summer campers who get lost on a hike and find a storybook in the woods full of classic stories that come to life and help them find their way back to camp. • Kids on the Block Puppet Show. Saturday, June 30, 1-1:45 p.m. Les Passees presents this show sharing messages of coping with bullying, anger management, and

GASTON PARK 1040 S. Third St., 942-0836 • Magic Show. Thursday, June 7, 2-3 p.m. Children ages 5 and under engage in the world of illusions. • Mr. Bond Science Guys. Thursday, June 14, 1-2 p.m. Children ages 6-12 learn about Making Waves, The Science of Sound. PARKWAY VILLAGE 4655 Knight Arnold Rd., 363-8923 • Intro to Musical Beats. Select days in June (June 4:1-3 p.m., June 7: 2-4 p.m.) Teens learn the ins and out of what it is like to be a DJ. • Gigglin Gertie. Wednesday, June 6, from 11 a.m. until noon. Storyteller Patricia Carreras presents this interactive story time using puppets, songs, rhymes, and mimes. • Make Your Own Tie-Dyed Shirts. Tuesday, June 12, from 11 a.m. until noon. Children ages 6-12 make a cool summer shirt. POPLAR-WHITE STATION 5094 Poplar Ave., 682-1616 • Kids Rock Painting. Wednesday, June 6, 2-3 p.m. Children ages 6-12 paint rocks and place them around the city for the community to discover. • What Makes Memphis Shake, Rattle, and Roll? Thursday, June 7, 2-3 p.m. Dr. Nathan, a research associate at the University of Memphis presents this program on earthquake study for teens. • Tie-Dye with Memphis Botanic Gardens. Wednesday, June 13, 2-3 p.m. Children ages 6-12 learn about the dyes and create their own tie-dye T-shirt. Bring a white cotton T-shirt. • Watercolor Sheet Music Art. Thursday, June 14, 2-3 p.m. Teens create artwork using discarded sheet music. • Sign Language. Thursday, June 21, 2-3 p.m. Deaf Connect shows teens how sign language can be used to teach diversity awareness and cultural perspectives and to communicate with others. • Blackout Poetry. Thursday, June 28, 2-3 p.m. Teens create lyrical masterpieces using blackout words or short phrases from old books and articles.

RALEIGH 3157 Powers Rd., 386-5333 • Raleigh Branch Science Club. Mondays, 1-2 p.m. Children ages 5 and under build Rube machines, try marshmallow engineering, and check out the aerodynamics of aircraft. • Family Craft Night. Select Wednesdays (June 6 & 20), 6-7 p.m. Craft and make keepsakes. • Origami 101. Tuesday, June 12, 2-3 p.m. Children ages 6-12 learn how to make fortune tellers and paper cranes. • Summer Luau Party! Thursday, June 21, 3-5 p.m. Children ages 5 and under listen to traditional Hawaiian stories, take part in island inspired crafts, and taste snacks. RANDOLPH 3752 Given, 452-1068 • Make your own Drum/Drum Circle! Tuesday, June 5, 1-2 p.m. Children ages 6-12 make their own tin-can drums and take part in a drum circle. • Shake, Rattle, & Go! Tuesday, June 12, 1-1:45 p.m. Children ages 6-12 construct a rattlesnake tail out of household items and test how far the sound travels. • The Well Church Health Center Creative Arts. Thursday, June 14, from noon until 1 p.m. Children ages 6-12 learn about connections to mind body and spirit in this creative arts program. SOUTH 1929 S. Third St., 946-8518 • Yoga for Kids. Wednesday, June 20, 1-2 p.m. Children ages 6-12 work on stretching exercises with Church Health. • Summer Music Production. June 25-29, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Raising the Bar offers teens piano/ songwriting and beat-making sessions in this weeklong program. • Sounds of the Forest. Wednesday, June 27, 1-2 p.m. Animals from T.O. Fuller State Park visit with the ranger. • Social Media Etiquette. Saturday, June 30, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. TJ Jefferson from Fresh Touch Publicity teaches teens about proper social media etiquette.

NOMINATIONS

NOW OPEN Memphis Parent is calling for YOUR nominations for the awesome educators, instructors, and coaches in your kids’ lives. They could be your child’s teacher or an educator who has positively impacted your life.

memphisparent.com/ outstandingteacher

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saying no to drugs and alcohol.

YOUR CHILD SHOULD BE HERE!

JUNE 2018

Send us your kid funnies, photos, or artwork via email with Favorite Moments in the subject line to michelle@memphisparent.com

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

You want the best for your kids. We do, too. Le Bonheur has been recognized time and again as one of the nation’s best children’s hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. Report. We believe it’s because we’ve always put what’s best for kids first.

When it comes to providing the best care for your children, there’s no substitute for the pediatric experience and expertise you’ll find only at Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital.

Where Every Child Matters lebonheur.org